As the trade deadline approaches each season, certain players emerge as the most viable candidates for trades, particularly those on expiring contracts and performing well for teams that are no longer in playoff contention. These players, often referred to as 'rentals,' are expected to contribute significantly to contending teams for the remainder of the season while enhancing their own market appeal ahead of free agency. Last summer, notable rental players such as Jack Flaherty (from the Detroit Tigers to the Los Angeles Dodgers), Yusei Kikuchi (from the Toronto Blue Jays to the Houston Astros), Tanner Scott (from the Miami Marlins to the San Diego Padres), Carlos Estévez (from the Los Angeles Angels to the Philadelphia Phillies), and Jesse Winker (from the Washington Nationals to the New York Mets) changed teams as contenders sought to strengthen their rosters. This article ranks the top 25 rental candidates on the 2025 MLB trade market, taking into account their current performance, potential impact, remaining club control, and likelihood of being traded.

Among the honorable mentions poised to be on the move are several intriguing players. Starting pitchers include Tyler Anderson (Los Angeles Angels), Jalen Beeks (Tampa Bay Rays), Aaron Civale (Cleveland Guardians), Zach Eflin (Baltimore Orioles), Erick Fedde (St. Louis Cardinals), Austin Gomber (Colorado Rockies), Andrew Heaney (Pittsburgh Pirates), Kyle Hendricks (Los Angeles Angels), Raisel Iglesias (Atlanta Braves), Jakob Junis (Cleveland Guardians), Michael Lorenzen (Kansas City Royals), Germán Márquez (Colorado Rockies), Steven Matz (St. Louis Cardinals), Rafael Montero (Atlanta Braves), Charlie Morton (Baltimore Orioles), Chris Paddack (Minnesota Twins), and Tomoyuki Sugano (Baltimore Orioles). Notable hitters include Yoán Moncada (Los Angeles Angels), Tommy Pham (Pittsburgh Pirates), Luis Rengifo (Los Angeles Angels), Amed Rosario (Washington Nationals), Carlos Santana (Cleveland Guardians), Lane Thomas (Cleveland Guardians), Luis Urías (Atlanta Braves), and Gio Urshela (Atlanta Braves).

At the top of the rental candidates list is Shelby Miller of the Arizona Diamondbacks. One of the offseason's best bargain signings, Miller secured a one-year, $1 million contract with the team. The 34-year-old has posted outstanding numbers, including a 1.98 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and 9.9 strikeouts per nine innings, along with 10 saves in 37 appearances. However, Miller faced a setback with a forearm strain that landed him on the injured list in early July. Following a live hitting session cut short by back tightness, he remains a risky but potentially valuable addition for any team that acquires him.

Michael Lorenzen of the Kansas City Royals is another notable name, having been traded at the deadline in the previous two seasons. Last season, he logged a fantastic 1.57 ERA in 28.2 innings during crucial games for the Royals. He returned on a one-year, $5.5 million deal but has a 4.61 ERA and 1.30 WHIP across 99.2 innings this year. After throwing seven shutout innings against the Diamondbacks in early July, he subsequently landed on the injured list with an oblique strain, making him a gamble as the trade deadline nears.

Cedric Mullins of the Baltimore Orioles started the season strongly but has struggled since May, hitting .180/.226/.335 with a 27.2 percent strikeout rate. Though his defensive metrics are not favorable, Mullins remains a legitimate source of power and speed, which could lead to an uptick in production with a change in scenery. Similarly, Josh Bell, currently with the Washington Nationals, has consistently contributed as a power hitter and run producer. He has produced a 102 OPS+ with 13 home runs and a strong July performance (.358/.452/.566 in 62 plate appearances) that boosts his trade value.

Another intriguing name is Charlie Morton, who returned to form with the Baltimore Orioles after a slow start, showcasing a 3.78 ERA and 52 strikeouts over 47.2 innings in his last nine starts. His playoff experience could make him an appealing option for contenders. Gregory Soto of the Baltimore Orioles has established himself as a valuable left-handed reliever, exhibiting a fastball averaging 96.7 mph and a high whiff rate on his slider. Soto currently owns a 4.08 ERA and 10.7 K/9 in 44 appearances.

Seranthony Domínguez, another lefty from Baltimore, contributed as a closer last season straddling his setup role this year. With a 3.63 ERA and 12 holds, he has shown potential as a reliable reliever. Kyle Finnegan, an All-Star in 2024, was unexpectedly non-tendered last offseason but has rebounded with impressive results this season, recording 19 saves despite a 4.62 ERA. Kenley Jansen remains a well-respected closer for the Los Angeles Angels and has transformed back into an effective option this season with 17 saves and a 3.28 ERA.

Isiah Kiner-Falefa of the Pittsburgh Pirates is one of the few middle infield options available this trade season, while Michael Soroka has managed to keep his FIP at 4.05 despite sporting a 5.10 ERA, highlighting a strong potential moving forward. Zack Littell of the Tampa Bay Rays could be appealing to teams looking for a mid-level starter and is expected to attract interest as the deadline approaches.

Utility player Willi Castro, now with the Minnesota Twins, has emerged as a valuable asset with a solid 113 OPS+. DH Marcell Ozuna of the Atlanta Braves may not be at the same level of production as previous seasons but still offers significant offensive potential. Josh Naylor, acquired by the Arizona Diamondbacks, has also made a strong impact with a 125 OPS+, while Ryan Helsley of the St. Louis Cardinals stands out as a dominant closer with a 3.18 ERA and impressive strikeout numbers.

Seth Lugo of the Kansas City Royals is enjoying a career season and while he has a player option for 2026, he is likely to seek a more lucrative long-term deal. As for Merrill Kelly of the Arizona Diamondbacks, he presents a strong rental arm with a 3.32 ERA and has been integral in the team's recent success. Finally, Eugenio Suárez leads the National League in home runs, showcasing remarkable power and increasing his value as trade discussions heat up.