The MLB trade deadline is fast approaching, and with it comes the excitement of potential roster shake-ups across the league. Last year’s deadline saw powerhouse trades, including the notable exchange where the San Diego Padres sent prized shortstop Leo De Vries to the Oakland Athletics for closer Mason Miller. As teams evaluate their rosters and seek to bolster their playoff opportunities, the question arises: Who will be this year's marquee prospect to change teams? Here, we spotlight seven talented prospects from teams possibly looking to make a deal and explain why they could become available in the right circumstances.
Felnin Celesten - Seattle Mariners
Age: 20Current Level: Double-AProspect Rank: No. 77 on B/R Top 100 Prospect Outlook
Felnin Celesten made waves after being signed for $4.7 million as part of the 2023 international class, and he has progressed significantly since then. In 2026, he showcased his talent by hitting .314/.409/.534 with 21 doubles, 13 home runs, and 52 RBIs over 80 games at High-A, which led to his promotion to Double-A. His defensive skills also set him apart, making him the best infielder in the Seattle farm system.
However, with Colt Emerson locked in as the long-term shortstop and Cole Young performing well at second base, Celesten finds himself in an infield logjam. The emergence of first-round pick Ace Reese as a promising third baseman creates a scenario where Seattle may be tempted to trade Celesten if it means bolstering their future.
Zyhir Hope - Los Angeles Dodgers
Age: 21Current Level: Double-AProspect Rank: No. 38 on B/R Top 100 Prospect Outlook
Zyhir Hope experienced a breakthrough 19-year-old season, which helped him transition seamlessly to the Dodgers organization following a trade for Michael Busch. This year, he has continued to impress, batting .289/.371/.529 with 17 doubles, 21 home runs, 84 RBIs, and 17 stolen bases across 87 Double-A games.
The Dodgers’ deep outfield talent has created a scenario where Hope might become expendable. With players like Josue De Paula and Mike Sirota emerging as top options, Hope’s contributions could entice other teams, positioning him as a significant trade chip in potential blockbuster deals.
Brody Hopkins - Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 24Current Level: Triple-AProspect Rank: No. 83 on B/R Top 100 Prospect Outlook
Having established himself with a stellar 2.42 ERA and 141 strikeouts at Double-A last season, Brody Hopkins has become a name to watch in the Rays system. This year, he boasts a 95 strikeout total in 77.2 innings pitched before being promoted to Triple-A. His triple-digit fastball and dynamic breaking pitch make him a daunting prospect to face.
Despite his impressive raw talent, command issues have clouded his potential, making him a candidate for trade. If the Rays can capitalize on his recent strong outings and burgeoning potential, they might decide to use him as part of a package to fetch a reliable arm for their playoff push.
Dax Kilby - New York Yankees
Age: 19Current Level: Rookie LeagueProspect Rank: No. 76 on B/R Top 100 Prospect Outlook
Drafted 39th overall in 2025 by the Yankees, Dax Kilby demonstrated his offensive capabilities by hitting .353/.457/.441 with 16 steals in Single-A. An unfortunate hamstring injury has limited his activity in 2026, yet his skills make him a top prospect still on the radar.
With the Yankees adopting a win-now strategy, Kilby may find himself on the trade block if it means bringing in players that can offer immediate impact. The presence of untouchable prospects George Lombard Jr. and Carlos Lagrange may ease the decision to part ways with Kilby under the right circumstances.
Luis Peña - Milwaukee Brewers
Age: 19Current Level: High-AProspect Rank: No. 18 on B/R Top 100 Prospect Outlook
In the Brewers’ prospect landscape, Luis Peña has proven to be a formidable player with a potential franchise-caliber offensive ceiling. He has consistently maintained a strong performance in High-A, blending power and speed effectively.
Securing a long-term deal with Cooper Pratt at shortstop and having Jesús Made as a rising top prospect indicates that Milwaukee might consider moving Peña as part of a trade. Although the Brewers are known for holding onto prospects, the right deal could persuade them to reevaluate Peña's position.
Jefferson Rojas - Chicago Cubs
Age: 21Current Level: Double-AProspect Rank: No. 2 CHC prospect
Jefferson Rojas has speedily climbed through the Cubs' ranks and is now making his mark at Double-A Knoxville. Hitting .272/.341/.462 with 14 home runs and 55 RBIs, he is among the youngest everyday players in his league. His impressive skills have resulted in a promising trajectory thus far.
However, with established players like Dansby Swanson and Nico Hoerner entrenched in the infield, Rojas may lack a clear path to playing time. If the Cubs seek starting pitching to bolster their rotation for a playoff run, moving Rojas might be the solution.
Wyatt Sanford - Pittsburgh Pirates
Age: 20Current Level: High-AProspect Rank: No. 81 on B/R Top 100 Prospect Outlook
Drafted in the second round by the Pirates, Wyatt Sanford has made noticeable strides in his performance, hitting .287/.425/.539 with 21 stolen bases across just 48 games this season. His versatility at shortstop and second base has added depth to the Pirates' system.
Although the Pirates are eager to strengthen their roster for a championship run, they may consider trading Sanford due to the presence of already established talents. Moving him could appear more viable considering their development plans for future seasons.
The MLB trade deadline offers a unique chance for teams to reshape their futures. As these seven prospects highlight, the league's landscape can change overnight, providing new opportunities for franchises looking to bolster their rosters for next season and beyond.
