As Major League Baseball's trade deadline approaches, activity surrounding player transactions is intensifying. Notable players such as Josh Naylor, Ryan McMahon, and Gregory Soto were traded late last week. The 48 hours leading up to Thursday's deadline at 6 p.m. ET are expected to reveal more significant player movements. Assessing who might be next in line to switch teams requires understanding that desirability is a key factor in any trade. However, considerations of availability and affordability are also crucial.

Using the Pittsburgh Pirates as a case study, the prospects of pitcher Andrew Heaney show he can be classified as available and affordable given his $5.25 million salary. Nevertheless, his troubled season, evident with a 6.84 ERA since late May, raises concerns about his desirability. Conversely, while Mitch Keller presents as a desirable pitcher, the $60 million remaining on his contract complicates any potential move, suggesting the Pirates may be disinclined to part with either of these assets despite trade chatter.

Kyle Finnegan was a top candidate for trades earlier in the season, boasting a 2.38 ERA and 18 saves in his first 23 appearances. However, his performance has faltered recently, contributing to an 8.03 ERA over the previous six weeks. While Finnegan has shown flashes of brilliance, his declining market value, reflected by a slow offseason prior to returning to the Nationals, positions him more as a middle-relief option than a coveted closer. Meanwhile, Isiah Kiner-Falefa seems poised for a trade, despite his underwhelming performance since June 4, as his defensive versatility could still attract interest from teams seeking depth.

Josh Bell has seen his stock rise heading into the deadline after a challenging start this season. With a resurgence since May 10, where he amassed an OPS over .800 and a history of trades bolstering his reputation, Bell is recognized as a desirable switch-hitting asset in the trade market. On the other hand, Charlie Morton shares a similar narrative; despite a dismal start leading to a 5.48 ERA, Morton's recent performance adjustments may offer him a second life on the trade market as a rental starting pitcher.

Relatively speaking, Ryan Helsley's situation stands out, as he has made it clear that he expects to be dealt given his performance as a closer with a notable 2.03 ERA since 2022. His capability to secure saves makes him an appealing target, especially for teams looking to bolster their bullpens. The Minnesota Twins are expected to be active in trade discussions as well, particularly with Danny Coulombe, whose impressive stats and left-handed relief capabilities make him an appealing acquisition for contenders.

In contrast, Ryan O'Hearn's trajectory has altered considerably. Previously one of the top offensive players, O'Hearn's dip in production this season has raised concerns among potential buyers. Nevertheless, with a limited salary commitment remaining this season, his adaptability as a left-handed bat could still attract interest from teams in need.

Merrill Kelly has quietly been one of the more consistent pitchers in the league, boasting a strong ERA alongside solid production. Recognized for his potential trade value, Kelly's performance in recent games enhances his reputation as a key target leading up to the deadline. Finally, with the Chicago White Sox's ongoing struggles, significant roster adjustments are anticipated, including the potential trades of outfielders Michael A. Taylor and Austin Slater as well as pitchers Aaron Civale and Tyler Alexander.

The impending trade bombshell surrounding players like Adrian Houser showcases the volatility of the market as predictions shift the narrative on who becomes an enticing option for teams making a push for postseason contention. As the trade deadline approaches, each decision made by these organizations will carry a substantial impact on their respective futures.