Introduction

This winter has seen an intense flurry of activity in Major League Baseball's free agency market, with many of the top names finding new homes. However, the off-season is far from over, as marquee players remain available through trades. Teams looking to bolster their rosters for the 2026 season are eyeing players such as CJ Abrams, Jarren Duran, and Joe Ryan. In this article, we'll analyze which teams might make a move for these players and what could potentially be offered in exchange based on median surplus values from Baseball Trade Values.

The Trade Landscape

As the MLB offseason progresses, it’s clear that certain teams are more desperate than others to make a trade. Teams like the Washington Nationals, Kansas City Royals, and Minnesota Twins are navigating the balance between rebuilding and competitiveness, factoring in the performance of notable players under management. Let’s dive into each player's potential trade scenarios and what it could cost interested teams.

CJ Abrams: A Star on the Block

Contract Info: $4.2M in 2026, arbitration-eligible in 2027 and 2028 Median Surplus Value: 52.9

Why might he be available? After trading MacKenzie Gore, the Nationals seem to be in a rebuilding phase and may look to trade CJ Abrams for assets. Teams interested in him might include:

• San Francisco Giants: Sending 1B Bryce Eldridge straight up could satisfy both teams’ needs.
• Boston Red Sox: The proposition of sending LHP Connelly Early and RHP Kyson Witherspoon could strengthen the Nationals' pitching arsenal.
• Seattle Mariners: A trade that includes SS Cole Young and RHP Ryan Sloan could entice the Nationals to consider the offer.

Kris Bubic: Finding a New Home

Contract Info: $5.15M or $6.15M in 2026 Median Surplus Value: 18.4

Why might he be available? The Royals are looking to capitalize on Bubic’s recent breakout performance. Potential trade package scenarios include:

• New York Mets: Sending 3B Brett Baty could be an appealing option for the Royals.
• Los Angeles Angels: A deal involving OF Jo Adell and UTIL Kyren Paris could bolster the Royals' lineup.
• San Francisco Giants: Trading OF Heliot Ramos could solidify the Royals’ outfield.

Byron Buxton: An Injury-Prone Asset

Contract Info: $15M in 2026, free agent after next season Median Surplus Value: 35.1

Buxton’s availability has sparked interest among several clubs. The Twins' uncertain direction makes him a prime candidate for trade discussions. Interested teams might propose:

• Cincinnati Reds: A combination of RHP Rhett Lowder and RHP Chase Petty could be enticing.
• New York Mets: A deal involving RHP Jonah Tong and 1B Ryan Clifford could benefit both sides.
• Los Angeles Angels: An offer including RHP Tyler Bremner, RHP Caden Dana, and OF Nelson Rada would likely catch the Twins’ attention.

Jarren Duran: A Valuable Outfielder

Contract Info: $7.7M in 2026, arbitration-eligible in 2027 and 2028 Median Surplus Value: 41.9

Red Sox’s outfielder Jarren Duran could find himself on the move due to Boston’s depth in the outfield. Here’s how trade scenarios might unfold:

• Houston Astros: Sending SS Jeremy Peña and IF Dorian Soto could be a substantial offer.
• Detroit Tigers: The proposal of IF Kevin McGonigle highlights Duran’s worth.
• Cincinnati Reds: Engaging in a three-team deal with Cleveland Guardians could benefit all parties.

Joe Ryan: The Ace Target

Contract Info: $12M in 2026, free agent after next season Median Surplus Value: 18.1

The Minnesota Twins could be looking to trade Joe Ryan as they reassess their strategies for the upcoming years. Potential deals include:

• New York Yankees: A trade including RHP Will Warren, OF Spencer Jones, and RHP Bryce Cunningham would be an enticing package.
• Baltimore Orioles: Offering IF Jordan Westburg and OF Nate George could bolster both teams.
• Philadelphia Phillies: Sending RHP Andrew Painter straight up may seem like a stretch but could be an appealing deal.

Conclusion

The MLB offseason continues to present opportunities for blockbuster trades. As teams assess their needs and prepare for what’s to come, players like CJ Abrams, Jarren Duran, and Joe Ryan are likely to be central talking points. While trade negotiations often involve a delicate balance between talent and value, the teams that effectively leverage their assets could gain significant advantages. As the offseason unfolds, expect a flurry of activity as teams vie for these impactful players.