The 2026 MLB trade deadline has come and gone, bringing with it a flurry of moves centered primarily on rental players heading for free agency this offseason. The Los Angeles Dodgers made headlines with the acquisition of left-hander Tarik Skubal. However, the most notable trade from this year's deadline saw catcher Adley Rutschman transferred from the Baltimore Orioles to the Boston Red Sox, marking a significant maneuver involving controllable talent. As we look ahead, potential CBA negotiations and a looming lockout may affect the offseason landscape, but for now, focus turns to ten players who stayed put yet could be pivotal trade pieces before Opening Day in 2027.
CJ Abrams: The Untouchable Rising Star?
At just 25 years of age, CJ Abrams has morphed into one of the standout performers for the Washington Nationals. With arbitration eligibility extending through 2028, his stats of 147 OPS+ and 28 home runs across 116 games reflect his potential impact. The Nationals have showcased remarkable improvement this season, hovering close to the .500 mark, a significant leap from their previous season's struggles. Nevertheless, their decision not to trade Abrams during the deadline suggests they may wish to build around him. However, should the front office determine that a long-term extension isn’t viable, flipping him for assets this winter could be on the table as they continue their path to contention.
William Contreras: Milwaukee’s Catching Conundrum
Milwaukee Brewers catcher William Contreras is having a stellar year, boasting two All-Star selections and Silver Slugger awards, alongside an impressive 29 extra-base hits in 109 games. With a $15.5 million club option looming for 2027 and the team’s history of trading star players before free agency, Contreras may find himself among the hottest trade commodities next winter. The Brew Crew's recent acquisition of Bo Naylor signals their long-term plan may not include Contreras, leaving the door open for potential suitors looking for a high-caliber catcher.
The Rebuilding Angels: Reid Detmers’ Bright Future
The Los Angeles Angels are embracing a full-scale rebuild, highlighted by the exodus of controllable players like José Soriano and Jo Adell. Among the few bright spots in an otherwise dismal season is left-hander Reid Detmers, who has excelled since transitioning back to a starting role. With a remarkable strikeout rate ranking him among the top qualified starters, Detmers could fetch a substantial return for the Angels if they choose to move him this winter.
Hunter Goodman: Rockies Seek Pitching Help
In a persistent quest for pitching improvement, the Colorado Rockies must consider the trade value of Hunter Goodman. As a 26-year-old catcher with considerable club control, Goodman displays a strong offensive output, particularly on the road. This power, coupled with the Rockies’ poor pitching numbers, might just convince Colorado that moving Goodman could net them the pitching prospects they desperately need to reverse their fortunes.
The Resurgence of Jackson Holliday
Following a significant injury setback, Jackson Holliday is once again making waves as one of the most promising talents to emerge from the Orioles’ system. Now boasting an OPS+ of 111 with 6 home runs, the 22-year-old has demonstrated that he can compete at a high level. The trade of Rutschman could mark the beginning of a new era in Baltimore, with Holliday being a valuable asset that the team might need to retain or could also part with if the right deal comes along.
Steven Kwan's Defensive Value
Having earned four consecutive Gold Glove awards, Steven Kwan has established himself as a premier defender in center field while contributing significantly on offense. However, with the Guardians operating on a constrained payroll, Kwan may become a trade candidate if the team opts to explore deals that align better with their financial and competitive future.
Mason Miller's Elite Potential
San Diego Padres pitcher Mason Miller is one of the game’s most electrifying talents, boasting a blistering fastball and strikeout prowess. Already a centerpiece of blockbuster trade discussions, Miller's future in San Diego seems uncertain. Given his elite-level status coupled with three years of club control, any potential trade will demand a steep return, causing speculation to swirl around his long-term role with the team.
The Value of Zach Neto
Shortstop Zach Neto's presence on the Angels’ roster is increasingly valuable as he has consistently turned in strong seasons. With the Angels embarking on a rebuild, the likelihood of moving Neto becomes plausible given his dual-threat capabilities at a premium position. If the Angels are serious about stripping their roster down, Neto could easily become the crown jewel in trades to bolster future prospects.
Trade Winds Surrounding the Astros
The Houston Astros have been at the center of trade conversations, particularly concerning their infielders like Jeremy Peña. With the impending surge of free agency for some of their key players, the Astros might opt to deal Peña now rather than risk losing him after 2027 without compensation. His hiring of agent Scott Boras has notably fueled speculation regarding his future in Houston.
Joe Ryan's Rising Stock
As one of the top starters in the American League, Joe Ryan's performance with the Minnesota Twins makes him an attractive trade piece leading into the offseason. With a history of being an All-Star and potential free agency drawing near, Ryan's name will undoubtedly surface in trade discussions as the Twins evaluate their roster options for 2027.
With the trade deadline now passed, these players linger in limbo as teams begin to ponder their next moves. As the offseason unfolds, expect teams to reassess their rosters, with several top talents possibly on the move as franchises aim to position themselves for future success.
