Top Non-Rental Players on the MLB Trade Market

When evaluating a Major League Baseball (MLB) player's trade value, a significant consideration is whether the player is merely a two-month rental for a team looking to make a playoff push or if he is under club control beyond the current season. Rental players are often viewed as clear trade chips, but it is the controllable non-rental players that generally yield substantial returns for rebuilding teams in search of young talent. This analysis focuses on the top non-rental trade candidates as the trade season approaches, with an overview of rental players anticipated on Thursday. Below is a ranking of the top 25 non-rental players available on the 2025 MLB trade market, with considerations based on their current performance, projected impact, length of club control, and the probability of being traded.
Several players have been speculatively mentioned in trade discussions this year, yet they are expected to remain with their respective teams for the time being. Pitchers such as Félix Bautista (Baltimore Orioles), Emmanuel Clase (Cleveland Guardians), Carlos Estévez (Kansas City Royals), and Kyle Freeland (Colorado Rockies) have garnered attention, as have hitters like Ozzie Albies (Atlanta Braves) and Nolan Arenado (St. Louis Cardinals). While trade speculation swirls around these names, the potential for offseason deals is still plausible.
As the list progresses, various players stand out for their potential trade value. Starting with Andrew Benintendi of the Chicago White Sox, who is under contract for $17.1 million in 2026 and $15.1 million in 2027. The White Sox may be open to subsidizing Benintendi's salary to facilitate a deal, appealing to teams in need of an experienced outfielder. Other notable mentions include Pierce Johnson of the Atlanta Braves, who possesses a $7 million club option for 2026, and JP Sears of the Oakland Athletics, an arbitration-eligible pitcher through 2028. With various contributors having different profiles and contract circumstances, this ranking showcases players from across the league who are drawing interest leading up to the trade deadline.








