The 2026 MLB season has not gone as planned for several teams that entered the campaign with high hopes for contention. Among the most notable struggles this early in the season are the New York Mets, who have hit an eight-game losing streak, and other teams like the Boston Red Sox, Houston Astros, San Francisco Giants, and Toronto Blue Jays, all of whom are facing challenges on the diamond. As the season progresses, speculation about potential trades is heating up. If these teams cannot find their footing, they could shift to selling at the trade deadline. Here, we explore seven hypothetical trades involving these five teams.

Chicago Cubs Eyeing Veteran Pitching

The Chicago Cubs are grappling with injuries that have depleted their rotation depth. With Cade Horton out for the season and both Matthew Boyd and Justin Steele currently sidelined, the club is forced to get creative with their pitching lineup, exemplified by using Riley Martin as an opener against the Phillies. Given these struggles, a veteran starter like Robbie Ray from the San Francisco Giants could become a critical addition. Ray, a former Cy Young Award winner, is in the final season of his five-year, $115 million deal and has demonstrated solid performance with a 3.65 ERA and 186 strikeouts last year, along with an impressive 2.42 ERA in 2026. If the Cubs can take on Ray's remaining $25 million salary, they may secure him at a reasonable prospect cost. The Giants would, in turn, add bat-first prospect Jonathon Long, who has shown promise with an .877 OPS and 21 home runs in the minors.

Pittsburgh Pirates Strengthen Rotation with Catcher Acquisition

The Pittsburgh Pirates have been struggling with their catching situation, with both Henry Davis and Joey Bart failing to meet expectations. To enhance their squad, a trade for veteran catcher Christian Vázquez from the Houston Astros could be beneficial. Currently enjoying a resurgence, Vázquez holds a .370 batting average and could help mentor the young Pirates pitching staff. His contract status allows him to be a short-term asset, and while the return may not be massive due to his age, the Pirates could part with utility player Tyler Callihan, who provides long-term value.

Oakland Athletics Seeking Stability

The Athletics entered the season with a rotation that was not adequately bolstered in the offseason, currently ranking low in starters’ ERA. This could lead them to consider trading with the Toronto Blue Jays for pitcher Kevin Gausman. Despite challenges, Gausman maintains frontline-level talent, evidenced by his 2.42 ERA this season. The Blue Jays might be willing to absorb some of his significant salary in exchange for promising prospect Wei-En Lin and outfielder Darwing Ozuna. Lin, who has a bright future ahead, could be a top arm in the system.

Milwaukee Brewers Seek Infield Help

The Milwaukee Brewers have faced issues at third base due to a lack of production. With the possibility of acquiring Isaac Paredes from Houston, they’d be getting an All-Star candidate with 20 home runs last season and valuable remaining club control. In return, the Astros would look for two prospects, namely Logan Henderson, who is MLB-ready, and Luis Lara, a speedster with a promising glove. This trade could reshape Milwaukee's infield while giving Houston the depth needed as they transition players.

Boston Red Sox Targeting Reliever Solutions

The Red Sox might consider trading away Aroldis Chapman if the team's struggles continue. Chapman's impressive years have made him a hot commodity, especially as the D-backs are reeling from bullpen issues with a high blown save percentage. A deal could see Boston sending Chapman to Arizona in exchange for young left-hander Kohl Drake, allowing both teams to address their immediate needs while looking at long-term planning.

Detroit Tigers Upgrade Outfield with Varsho

Daulton Varsho has established himself as a valuable outfielder with a combination of power and defensive skills. The Detroit Tigers could pursue Varsho from Toronto to solidify their outfield, especially in light of injuries that have plagued their roster. The return package might consist of highly regarded prospects such as Hao-Yu Lee, Jake Miller, and Jackson Strong, offering Toronto a comprehensive boost in their minor league system as they look to bolster their future prospects.

New York Mets Consider Trading Freddy Peralta

In a surprising turn, the Mets have the option to trade newly acquired pitcher Freddy Peralta, looking to capitalize on his potential free agent value. For the Padres, acquiring Peralta aligns perfectly with their need for rotation depth amid injury concerns. The proposed trade could see San Diego parting with key positional prospects including Ethan Salas, whose development has seen some stumbles. This ambitious move could shake up both teams significantly, highlighting the shifting landscape as the trade deadline approaches.

The MLB season is still young, but as these teams struggle early, the trade deadline may become a pivotal moment for them. With the right moves, they could reshape their rosters and regain competitiveness in an unforgiving league.