The MLB offseason trade market is on fire, and the recent blockbuster deals for Freddy Peralta and MacKenzie Gore have left fans buzzing. But who’s next on the chopping block? With the trade winds still swirling, we’ve identified the top eight remaining candidates and their potential landing spots. And this is the part most people miss: these moves could reshape the league’s landscape for years to come. Let’s dive in.
SS CJ Abrams, Washington Nationals
After shipping off MacKenzie Gore, the Nationals seem poised to part ways with CJ Abrams. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Abrams plays a different position and has an extra year of control, the logic behind trading him mirrors Gore’s situation. His value is sky-high, and the Nationals are unlikely to contend by 2028, when he hits free agency. So, why not cash in now?
Predicted Landing Spot: Seattle Mariners
The Mariners are desperate for infield upgrades after losing Jorge Polanco and potentially Eugenio Suarez. Abrams would slot in perfectly, providing a much-needed boost to their lineup alongside stars like Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodriguez. Is this the move that propels Seattle into contention?
1B Ryan Mountcastle, Baltimore Orioles
The Orioles’ decision to tender Ryan Mountcastle a contract feels increasingly puzzling, especially after signing Pete Alonso to play first base. And this is the part most people miss: Mountcastle’s $6.7 million salary makes him a prime trade candidate. With no clear role in Baltimore, his days in orange and black seem numbered.
Predicted Landing Spot: San Diego Padres
The Padres need a first baseman, and Mountcastle fits the bill—even if he’s coming off a down year. While the return might not be huge, the Orioles could free up payroll for pitching, and the Padres get a power-hitting stopgap. Is this a win-win, or are both teams settling?
3B Isaac Paredes, Houston Astros
The Astros have an infield logjam, and Isaac Paredes could be the odd man out. But here’s where it gets controversial: trading Paredes makes more sense than moving a veteran like Carlos Correa. His value is high, and he’s a perfect fit for a team in need of power.
Predicted Landing Spot: Boston Red Sox
The Red Sox desperately need a middle-of-the-order bat, and Paredes’ power-hitting profile is tailor-made for Fenway Park. In return, the Astros could target outfielders like Jarren Duran or pitching prospects like Brayan Bello. Could this be the trade that pushes Boston back into contention?
OF Jarren Duran, Boston Red Sox
With a crowded outfield, Duran is the most expendable Red Sox outfielder. And this is the part most people miss: he’s a left-handed hitter with speed, making him an ideal fit for the Astros’ needs.
Predicted Landing Spot: Houston Astros
While the Astros might prefer Wilyer Abreu, Duran’s skill set is hard to ignore. Pairing him with Paredes in a trade could benefit both teams. Is this the swap that makes too much sense to ignore?
LHP Kris Bubic, Kansas City Royals
The Royals’ rotation is strong, but their lineup needs help. Trading Kris Bubic could address that imbalance, especially with his value coming off an All-Star year.
Predicted Landing Spot: New York Yankees
The Yankees need starting pitching, and Bubic could be a cost-effective solution. With Jasson Dominguez or Spencer Jones as potential trade chips, this deal could work for both sides. But is Bubic enough to elevate the Yankees’ rotation?
2B Nico Hoerner, Chicago Cubs
Nico Hoerner’s future in Chicago is uncertain after the Alex Bregman signing. But here’s where it gets controversial: trading Hoerner would be a mistake. He’s one of the most valuable infielders in baseball, and the Cubs can’t afford to lose him unless they get a massive return.
Predicted Landing Spot: Chicago Cubs
While the Cubs might listen to offers, keeping Hoerner is the smart move. His contact hitting and defense are irreplaceable. Should the Cubs risk losing him for nothing next winter?
2B/OF Brendan Donovan, St. Louis Cardinals
The Cardinals are in rebuild mode, and Brendan Donovan’s versatility makes him a hot commodity. And this is the part most people miss: his ability to play multiple positions and hit at a high level could fetch a king’s ransom.
Predicted Landing Spot: San Francisco Giants
The Giants need a leadoff hitter and help at second base and in the outfield. Donovan checks all those boxes. If they’re serious about contending, he’s the missing piece. Is this the move that puts San Francisco over the top?
LHP Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers
Tarik Skubal’s future in Detroit remains uncertain, despite the Tigers’ reluctance to trade him. But here’s where it gets controversial: keeping him risks losing him for nothing in free agency. His value is through the roof, but the Tigers’ asking price might be too high.
Predicted Landing Spot: Detroit Tigers
While trading Skubal makes sense on paper, it’s unlikely to happen. The Tigers will demand a massive return, and few teams can meet that price. Should Detroit cash in now, or hold onto their ace?
Final Thoughts
These potential trades could reshape the MLB landscape, but they’re not without controversy. What do you think? Are these moves smart, or are teams giving up too much? Let us know in the comments!
