As Major League Baseball's trade deadline approaches, the excitement surrounding potential player movement intensifies. Recently, players such as Josh Naylor, Ryan McMahon, and Gregory Soto were traded, signaling the start of a busy period for teams looking to bolster their rosters before the deadline on Thursday at 6 p.m. ET. The next 48 hours are expected to see heightened activity, leading analysts to speculate on who might be dealt next. It's essential to understand that a player's desirability to contenders does not always align with their availability or affordability, factors that play a crucial role in trade discussions.

For instance, the Pittsburgh Pirates have a few pitchers who fit into these discussions. Andrew Heaney, an impending free agent with a $5.25 million salary, is categorized as available and affordable, but his recent performance—marked by a 6.84 ERA since late May—raises questions about his desirability. Conversely, Mitch Keller presents a more appealing option for teams due to his talent. However, with approximately $60 million remaining on his contract and the Pirates likely seeking significant returns beyond salary relief, a trade involving Keller may not be imminent. Although it's possible that the Pirates will retain both pitchers, many other players are generating considerable interest leading up to the deadline.

Kyle Finnegan was a strong candidate for trade before experiencing a dip in performance. Initially demonstrating promise with a 2.38 ERA and 18 saves in the early part of the season, his ERA surged to 8.03 over the subsequent six weeks, resulting in lost save opportunities. Despite having a couple of dominant outings during this slump, Finnegan’s value appears to have diminished, with his previous offseason also indicating limited interest, as the Washington Nationals non-tendered him. Nevertheless, he remains a likely candidate to be traded, though he may be more attractive as a middle-relief option than a primary closer.

In the context of the Pirates, one name standing out as a strong trade candidate is Isiah Kiner-Falefa. Despite initial claims from the team regarding his untouchability, his drop in value—evidenced by a sub-.500 OPS—has raised uncertainties about his attractiveness on the trade market. The versatile defender's abilities in both defense and baserunning may still entice teams looking for depth, and the timing of a potential move now seems more plausible.

On the other end of the spectrum is Josh Bell, who has experienced a revival in performance as the trade deadline approaches, making him a sought-after switch hitter. After struggling early in the season, Bell's resurgence since May 10, where his OPS surpassed .800, positions him as an attractive trade asset. His history of movement during trade seasons, including past deals that saw him change teams frequently, and consistent performance since being traded boosts his appeal to contending teams.

Charlie Morton’s recent performances also warrant attention. Despite carrying a high 5.48 ERA for the season, Morton has managed to lower it to 3.53 since mid-May, showcasing his ability to turn around his season. His command issues seem to have stabilized significantly, transitioning him from a player seen as a liability to one now considered among the top options on the rental market for starting pitchers as teams prepare for postseason contention.

The situation in St. Louis sees closer Ryan Helsley drawing considerable interest with trade rumors circulating. Helsley acknowledged the likelihood of a departure from the Cardinals, prompting speculation about his future. His impressive statistics, including a 2.03 ERA and 103 saves since 2022, indicate that he will be a premier target for teams in need of a late-inning relief option as the deadline approaches.

In Minnesota, teams are honing in on affordable options such as Danny Coulombe. The left-handed reliever has performed well and is expected to generate interest from various contenders. His production over the past season reinforces his value, making him an appealing option for teams looking for reliable bullpen depth as they gear up for the playoffs.

The Chicago White Sox will likely engage in active roster adjustments, with multiple players rumored to be on the trading block. Notable among them is Adrian Houser, who has turned his career around after a challenging period. His emergence as a quality starting pitcher has positioned him favorably for trade discussions, adding intrigue to the upcoming deadline.

Eugenio Suárez has recently entered the conversation as one of the most coveted rental players as well. Following a season of remarkable home run production, his overall performance has improved significantly, prompting speculation about his trade value. As a result, Suárez's potential departure from his current team seems increasingly certain, as contenders look to improve their lineups before the deadline.