The 2025 MLB trade deadline proved to be one of the most active in recent history, though several prominent players who were rumored to be on the move ultimately remained with their respective teams. Notable among these are Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran and Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara, both of whom are set to finish the 2025 season with their current clubs. However, this does not rule out the possibility of trades occurring before the 2026 Opening Day. The following are ten players who stayed put at the deadline but could still be trade candidates in the upcoming offseason.

First on the list is Sandy Alcantara, age 29, who is signed through 2026 with a club option for 2027. Alcantara's current statistics show 22 games started, a 6.44 ERA (4.35 FIP), 1.42 WHIP, 86 strikeouts, and a total of 116.0 innings pitched, resulting in a -1.4 WAR. Despite struggling in his return from Tommy John surgery, Alcantara's performances in 2025 did not entice contenders to pay a premium for him at the deadline. Should he finish the season strong, his $17.3 million salary for 2026 may once again place him on the trading block this winter. Given his past achievements, including a 2.28 ERA in 228.2 innings in 2022 that earned him the NL Cy Young Award, there may still be potential for a return to form.

Another player generating trade interest is Nolan Arenado of the St. Louis Cardinals, age 34, with a contract secured through 2027. His season statistics include 394 plate appearances, an 85 OPS+, a .235/.294/.366 batting line, 26 extra-base hits (10 home runs), 43 RBIs, and a 1.0 WAR. Interest in Arenado has persisted since the previous offseason, and while he blocked a trade to the Astros in December, he has not ruled out a move elsewhere. His contract structure, which offers a reduced salary from $32 million this year to $27 million in 2026 and down to $15 million in 2027, along with the Rockies covering part of his 2026 salary, may make him more appealing to potential suitors. Though no longer in his prime, Arenado's experience and defensive skills could still make him a valuable addition for contenders.

Next is Yandy Díaz, 33, who is under contract with the Tampa Bay Rays through 2026, boasting a club option for 2027. This season, he has registered 477 plate appearances, a 126 OPS+, a .282/.344/.473 line, 41 extra-base hits (20 home runs), 65 RBIs, and a 2.2 WAR. The Rays have a history of trading players who have team-friendly extensions ahead of their peak contract costs, and Díaz fits this profile well. With his current salary at $10 million and a club option for $12 million next year, Díaz represents an attractive trade chip for the frugal Rays, particularly for teams looking to bolster their first base options.

Jarren Duran, 28, is another player to consider. His contract includes a club option for 2026, and he is arbitration-eligible through 2028. Duran is having a solid year with 498 plate appearances, a 118 OPS+, a .262/.328/.462 batting line, 54 extra-base hits (12 home runs), 63 RBIs, and a 3.3 WAR. With a crowded outfield situation in Boston, including Wilyer Abreu, Ceddanne Rafaela, and rookie Roman Anthony, Duran stands out as a prime trade candidate. His ability to provide value and potential for a controllable pitcher could lead the Boston front office to consider making a deal.

MacKenzie Gore, age 26, is currently under consideration for trade as well. While he is the type of player the Washington Nationals ideally want to retain as they transition from rebuilding to contention, Gore’s impending free agency in two years could complicate matters. His impressive statistics include 22 games started, a 3.80 ERA (3.48 FIP), a 1.29 WHIP, 148 strikeouts, 123.0 innings pitched, and a 2.9 WAR. Given his representation by agent Scott Boras, extending his contract might be challenging. Nonetheless, Gore's performance, which includes earning his first All-Star selection this year, positions him as an excellent mid-rotation option for contending teams.

The Pittsburgh Pirates’ Mitch Keller, 29, is also a name to monitor in the trade market. Despite the Pirates holding onto him at the deadline, they might more aggressively shop him this winter. Keller, who is signed through 2028 with a five-year, $77 million extension, is set to earn $16.9 million in 2026, $18.4 million in 2027, and $20.4 million in 2028. While this contract is not outrageous based on his market value, it may be more than the budget-conscious Pirates are willing to accommodate, especially considering Keller's inconsistency.

Steven Kwan of the Cleveland Guardians, 27, has also been rumored to be on the move. Reports indicated that the Guardians were open to discussions regarding Kwan ahead of the trade deadline. If an extension is not in the Guardians' plans, trading Kwan this winter would maximize his value, with many teams likely to show interest. Kwan's ability as an elite contact hitter, showcased by a 16.0 WAR since the start of the 2022 season, makes him a desirable player for teams looking to enhance their outfield.

Brandon Lowe, age 31, parallels Yandy Díaz as a potential trade candidate for the Tampa Bay Rays this offseason. His current contract places him as the second-highest paid player on the team at $10.5 million this year, with a jump to $11.5 million for 2026 if his club option is exercised. Lowe has earned All-Star honors this season, solidifying his position as one of the top offensive second basemen in baseball, provided he can maintain his health, which has been a challenge in his career.

Lars Nootbaar, 27, is another player who could be moved by the St. Louis Cardinals. While the Cardinals opted for a less drastic strategy at the trade deadline, Nootbaar is the most likely among potential trade candidates like Brendan Donovan and Alec Burleson. His solid track record prior to this season and affordable price tag in arbitration make him an attractive option for teams in need of a corner outfield presence.

Lastly, the Minnesota Twins' Tyler Mahle, age 29, is also a player of interest in the trade market. Following a tumultuous deadline for the Twins, Mahle may seek a trade request after a solid performance this season, which earned him his first All-Star selection. His statistics include 21 games started, a 2.83 ERA (3.15 FIP), a 0.93 WHIP, 141 strikeouts in 127.1 innings pitched, and a 4.4 WAR. His current contract, which keeps him under $10 million for the upcoming season, makes him a viable option as a top-tier starter for any contending team.

Overall, as the offseason approaches, these players represent a collection of talent that could reshape various rosters ahead of the 2026 season.