Dissecting Under-the-Radar Moves from the 2025 MLB Trade Deadline

As the 2025 MLB trade deadline has concluded, a thorough examination of both the major blockbuster trades and the more subtle, impactful transactions is warranted. While high-profile trades garner the majority of attention, numerous under-the-radar moves during this period may yield significant contributions for their respective teams. From contenders enhancing their rosters to other teams focusing on future prospects, these less publicized changes can result in noteworthy returns. Here, seven players are highlighted, each of whom has the potential to make a meaningful impact on their new clubs.
One such player is an unnamed 30-year-old outfielder who has quietly excelled in a part-time capacity with the Washington Nationals. He posted a remarkable .343 batting average along with a .425 on-base percentage in 113 plate appearances last season. In the current season, he has continued his productive form, particularly against left-handed pitchers, holding a .314 average in 81 plate appearances. This player, projected as a fourth outfielder or platoon starter in Los Angeles, ranks among the MLB leaders in both chase rate and whiff rate, and his solid walk rate and high on-base percentage help mitigate his lower power numbers. Should he find a hot streak, a more prominent role may be in the cards, potentially reducing the playing time of established outfielder Michael Conforto.
Another player generating interest is a 28-year-old starter who has proven to be a reliable backend option for the Pittsburgh Pirates. After transitioning from the Philadelphia Phillies via trade, he has recorded a 4.32 ERA over 296 innings across three seasons. Although his advanced metrics indicate potential regression, his consistency as an innings-eater makes him valuable to the Pirates, especially considering injuries to teammates such as Cole Ragans and Michael Lorenzen. He is expected to bolster the rotation as they head towards the season's conclusion.
Caleb Ferguson, a 29-year-old reliever, has showcased his prowess in suppressing hard contact this season. He ranks at the top of the league for average exit velocity and hard-hit rate allowed. Although his strikeout percentages are modest, his ability to induce weak contact could transform him into a crucial asset for the Seattle Mariners’ bullpen. Notably adept at limiting left-handed batters, he has held them to a .164 batting average this year.
Further, the San Diego Padres have acquired a 30-year-old catcher, enhancing their currently struggling position behind the plate. Despite the team's catchers producing a lackluster .211 batting line this season, the new addition represents a more promising option. Although not a standout offensively, he offers stability and a long-term solution to the catching dilemma, having demonstrated a solid WAR in previous seasons. His experience sharing time with Salvador Perez might aid in the Padres' efforts to run a more effective catching rotation.
The 24-year-old infielder who has had a turbulent stint in the majors sees promise in his recent trade, as he was previously regarded highly in prospect rankings. After battling injuries and returning to the roster intermittently this season, he has an opportunity to compete for a starting role with his new team. His career minor league performance has been impressive, showcasing a batting line that suggests he could thrive with the right opportunity. This change of scenery may position him for a breakout season, similar to a recent success story within the same organization.
Another notable acquisition is a 29-year-old pitcher who, after a challenging couple of seasons with limited innings, has secured a spot in the Minnesota Twins' rotation. His recent trade to the Detroit Tigers has raised expectations, particularly after delivering two consecutive strong starts. As he competes for a playoff positioning within the Tigers' rotation, he represents an experienced option as they navigate the home stretch of the season.
Lastly, a 27-year-old setup reliever recently acquired has emerged as another candidate for impactful performance in high-leverage situations. His impressive fastball velocity coupled with a highly effective knuckle curve positions him as a viable option for the team's late-inning strategy. Entering a bullpen already fortified by recent trades, he could provide significant depth and stability for the ensuing campaign.








