This Trade Season's Hidden Gems
As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the spotlight has largely been on prominent names such as Tarik Skubal, C.J. Abrams, Mason Miller, and Hunter Goodman. However, a deeper dive into the trade market reveals a wealth of under-the-radar players poised to impact playoff races significantly. While teams like the A's, Angels, Giants, Mets, Reds, Rockies, Royals, and potentially the Blue Jays appear destined to sell, various buy-low candidates could provide unforeseen value as contenders aim to bolster their rosters for the postseason.
Jo Adell: The Power Potential
Jo Adell, a name that has been resonating from the Los Angeles Angels, has a tantalizing blend of power and bat speed. Ranked in the 97th percentile for bat speed from 2024 to 2026, Adell's potential was evident last season when he barreled 17.3% of his batted balls, culminating in 37 home runs. However, 2026 has seen a noticeable decline; his barrel rate has plummeted to 8.6%. If he can find his rhythm, a change of scenery might spark Adell's revival, especially given the current demand for outfielders across the league. Teams like the Phillies, Tigers, and the White Sox could benefit immensely from his power potential, provided he can return to early-career form.
Kris Bubic: A Risk with Rotation Upside
Kris Bubic finds himself in a precarious position after struggling with shoulder soreness and missing significant time on the injured list. Despite the injuries, he boasts a commendable 2.58 ERA from the previous two seasons and was an All-Star in 2025. Although he may not be an immediate rotation solution, a team willing to bet on his recovery could find themselves with a valuable player in the latter months of the season. Given how many teams are in contention, at least a dozen could see Bubic as a gamble worth taking ahead of the deadline.
Brenton Doyle’s Comeback After Injury
Brenton Doyle, often overshadowed by All-Star catcher Hunter Goodman in the trade rumor mill, demonstrated incredible potential just two seasons ago, with 23 home runs and 30 steals, earning a Gold Glove in center field. While his 2025 season was disappointing and injury-plagued, Doyle recently initiated a rehab assignment, which aligns nicely with the trade deadline. If he can return to form, the Rockies, who have a strong group of outfielders, could consider moving him for the right deal. Teams like the Cardinals or Orioles, both in need of outfield depth, may look to trade for a player with Doyle's upside.
Tyler Mahle: The Veteran on the Move
Tyler Mahle has transitioned from a reliable starter to a likely trade chip for the San Francisco Giants. With a disappointing ERA of 5.31 over the season so far, Mahle has shown signs of resurgence since returning from a hamstring injury, posting a 3.76 ERA in his last five starts. His ability to adapt and focus on better pitches could intrigue playoff-bound teams looking to shore up their rotations inexpensively. He stands out as a desirable candidate for teams willing to gamble on his returning form for a potential postseason push.
Jorge Polanco: The Switch-Hitting Enigma
Jorge Polanco, who had a rough start to the season due to injuries, is still a candidate for teams seeking a switch-hitting option who performed admirably last year. With numbers that have struggled under the pressure in New York, a fresh start could rekindle his productive streak. As the Mets are possibly looking to offload significant salary, a team might be able to capitalize on Polanco’s previous success; especially teams like the Mariners, who have struggled against left-handed pitching.
Max Scherzer: Experience and Potential
Max Scherzer remains one of the most interesting names ahead of the trade deadline, albeit with risks associated due to his age and performance this year. However, entering into the trades, interest in the former cycle-in winner could be keen, especially after a potentially effective rehabilitation start from injury. Teams may see the value in acquiring Scherzer if he can prove to be effective once again in the postseason landscape. With an impressive track record, particularly in the playoffs, he could potentially push a team over the edge.
Jeffrey Springs: The Hidden Starter
Jeffrey Springs’ home performance has been lackluster, but his away games herald a different picture entirely. Having a solid outing on the road, if he can find consistency, could make him a feasible target for teams that are looking to boost their pitching staff without giving up much prospect capital at the deadline. With some teams like the White Sox and Nationals likely needing depth, he could serve as a buying option.
Eugenio Suárez: The Rental Power Bat
Eugenio Suárez has experienced a drastic shift in fortunes since last season where he was a hot commodity at the trade deadline in 2025. Despite having a bit of a slump this year, he has shown signs of life, including several recent home runs that could attract contenders looking for rental power-hitting options. His versatility in playing third base makes him attractive to teams like Seattle or Miami, both battling with underwhelming offense from that position this season. If his timeline aligns right, Suárez could provide necessary firepower down the stretch.
Impact Players Awaiting Change
As MLB franchises hope to make playoff pushes, the trade landscape is ripe for shrewd decision-making. While big names often dominate headlines, it's the lesser-known players who could make the most significant impacts late in the season. As the deadline approaches, expect teams to explore every avenue, seeking these buy-low options to enhance their rosters for a postseason run.
