The Major League Baseball trade deadline is fast approaching, with recent moves including players such as Josh Naylor, Ryan McMahon, and Gregory Soto changing teams late last week. The final 48 hours leading up to the trade deadline, set for Thursday at 6 p.m. ET, are typically when trade activity intensifies. As the clock ticks down, speculation builds regarding which players might be next to switch teams. It is essential to note that being deemed 'most likely to be dealt' and being classified as the 'best' player available do not always align. A player's desirability to a contender is a crucial factor in the trade equation, alongside availability and affordability. For instance, while impending free agent Andrew Heaney of the Pittsburgh Pirates is viewed as affordable at a $5.25 million salary, his 6.84 ERA since late May raises questions about his desirability. In contrast, Mitch Keller, another Pittsburgh pitcher, presents a compelling option with a potential upside; however, with around $60 million remaining on his contract, acquiring him would likely demand more than mere salary relief, leading to uncertainty about his movement before the deadline.

As the trade deadline approaches, the top ten players on the list of potential trade candidates have become focal points. For instance, Kyle Finnegan’s early-season performance had him positioned as a prime target, boasting a 2.38 ERA and 18 saves at the season's outset. However, his struggle over the following weeks, which resulted in an 8.03 ERA and blown saves, has diminished his standing among desirable relievers. Finnegan's situation is complicated by the Nationals' lack of leads, reducing his opportunities to contribute positively. National's management, skeptical about his marketability, previously non-tendered him, leading to a languishing free agency. Finnegan's trade prospects remain, although he may now be regarded as a middle-relief solution rather than a reliable closer. Meanwhile, Isiah Kiner-Falefa of the Pirates, while initially listed as a secure trade asset due to his versatile defensive skills, may see his value diminish owing to a subpar OPS since June 4, potentially complicating his departure.

Contrasting these narratives, players such as Josh Bell are trending upward as the deadline nears. After struggling early in the season with underwhelming statistics, Bell has turned his performance around, showcasing an OPS above .800 since May 10, rekindling interest as a switch-hitting asset. Historically, Bell has demonstrated an ability to change teams mid-season, having already moved between multiple franchises over the last few years, making him a significant candidate for trade discussions. Similarly, Charlie Morton, despite encountering rocky starts, has shown improvement recently, evidenced by his quality starts and improved control, enhancing his attractiveness to potential suitors. For the St. Louis Cardinals, closer Ryan Helsley has emerged as one of the more intriguing players available for trade, expressing a low probability of remaining with the team. With several teams in need of closing depth, Helsley’s high strikeout rate and solid ERA position him as a top target.

In Minnesota, chatter around trade candidates like Joe Ryan and Jhoan Durán continues, while the likelihood of Danny Coulombe being dealt seems increasingly viable due to his cost-effective, left-handed versatility that is always in demand during the trade deadline. On the other hand, Ryan O'Hearn from the Orioles, once viewed as a likely top trade piece due to his impressive early-season performance, has seen his numbers decline sharply, complicating his potential market. The Chicago White Sox are anticipated to engage in significant roster alterations as their current position suggests a rebuilding phase. Adrian Houser has emerged as an unexpected trade chip following an impressive resurgence, and despite questions about sustainability, his low cost and strong recent performances will likely attract potential buyers. Finally, Eugenio Suárez, who has shown remarkable power surges of late, is poised to be among the most desired rentals as the deadline approaches, leading to anticipation regarding which contender might offer the best deal.