The 2024 MLB winter meetings are set to begin on Sunday in Dallas, Texas, with several high-profile players, including Nolan Arenado, Garrett Crochet, and Devin Williams, reportedly on the trade block. This period is expected to feature a flurry of trades as teams look to bolster their rosters ahead of the upcoming season. While the trades that occur during the offseason often garner significant headlines, it is crucial to remember that it is the prospects acquired in these deals that ultimately determine the long-term success of trades for each franchise.

A closer examination reveals ten notable prospects who might find themselves at the center of significant trade conversations due to factors such as blocked paths to the majors, varying potential for success, and their timeliness in relation to their team's competitive window. This analysis includes each player's final ranking on Bleacher Report's Top 100 prospect list from the year.

Among the prospects, Franklin Arias of the Boston Red Sox, ranked No. 90 by Bleacher Report, has showcased impressive statistics with a .309 batting average and 54 RBIs over 87 games. With the Red Sox having a surplus of shortstop talent in Trevor Story, Ceddanne Rafaela, and rising prospects like Marcelo Mayer and Kristian Campbell, Arias could become a centerpiece in a deal addressing the team's pitching needs.

Another potential trade candidate is Roderick Arias from the New York Yankees, although he falls into the Next 50 category of prospects. The signing of Arias for $4 million as part of the 2022 international class could provide the Yankees with trade leverage as they seek to improve their roster in a win-now scenario, particularly as Anthony Volpe appears set at shortstop.

Tyler Black, ranked No. 95, is characterized as a high-ceiling offensive prospect but lacks a defined position. After spending time at several positions, including first base and third base, he may be better suited for first base. With the potential to profile as a Brandon Belt-type player, he could also emerge as a trade asset to acquire a more established player.

Owen Caissie, ranked No. 44, is generating interest following an impressive Triple-A season for the Chicago Cubs. Despite not having a clear role in a crowded outfield, his .848 OPS during the 2024 season puts him in a position where he might be moved to enhance the team's pitching options.

The Philadelphia Phillies find themselves in a critical phase, and top prospect Justin Crawford, taken No. 17 overall in the 2022 draft, is seen as a player who could be available for the right deal. His impressive minor-league statistics place him as a potential table-setter for the team, with sources indicating he could be moved if it means acquiring a player solidified in the majors.

The Detroit Tigers have higher hopes for Jaden Hamm, their fifth-round pick in the 2023 draft, who has proven to be one of the draft's steals with a notable breakout season in 2024. Hamm's emergence could lead the Tigers to consider moving him as part of a larger trade aimed at securing additional offensive support to the pitching staff.

At the same time, the Baltimore Orioles are projecting their outfield for the future and must consider the role of Coby Mayo, who holds significant power. Ranked No. 7, Mayo's strong minor league performance contrasts with his struggles in the majors, presenting a situation where he may be involved in trades as the Orioles look for aces.

In the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, Dalton Rushing's move to left field, coupled with the team's established catchers, signals a possible trade for more pressing needs if they can find an enticing offer. Rushing's offensive contributions have matured enough for him to be considered a highly valued trade prospect.

Lastly, the Atlanta Braves find themselves with a wealth of young pitching talent, including Hurston Waldrep, who has shown potential after being selected in the 2023 draft. Despite some inconsistencies, his performance may make him an attractive piece for teams looking to bolster their rotations as trade discussions heat up.

The Seattle Mariners are also in a favorable position with a highly-rated farm system, particularly in middle infield prospects. Key names could become trade candidates as the team looks to improve and add middle-order hitting to their roster.