With the Major League Baseball Trade Deadline approaching on July 31, discussions are intensifying about which teams are poised to make significant moves. The MLB Pipeline Podcast recently featured Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo, who discussed the top ten teams most likely to engage in major trades.
Jim Callis highlighted the Chicago Cubs as a team with both prospects to trade and a strong desire to make deals. “The Cubs are the team with prospects to trade and the desire to make a trade,” he said. He noted that players like Owen Caissie, Moisés Ballesteros, and Kevin Alcántara are key assets for potential trades.
Jonathan Mayo pointed out Jerry Dipoto’s history of making trades and suggested that Seattle Mariners might bolster their big league team. He mentioned several prospects, including Harry Ford, who could be involved in potential trades.
Mayo also discussed the Philadelphia Phillies’ approach under Dave Dombrowski’s leadership. “This is a team that expects to go deep into October,” he stated, suggesting that while Andrew Painter is unlikely to be traded, other prospects might be considered.
Callis expressed confidence in the Detroit Tigers’ ambition beyond just making the playoffs. However, he noted their reluctance to trade top prospects like Kevin McGonigle or Max Clark.
The Los Angeles Dodgers were identified by Callis as having depth in their farm system despite injuries among pitchers. He emphasized their capability of acquiring desired players due to their resources.
For the New York Mets, Mayo highlighted several upper-level prospects who could be part of trade packages but acknowledged some untouchable talents within their ranks.
Regarding Milwaukee Brewers, Mayo mentioned they possess a strong farm system but may not part with top international signees like Jesús Made or Jacob Misiorowski.
Callis noted that while the New York Yankees have young pitching talent they might consider trading, they would likely retain George Lombard Jr., their best prospect.
Mayo speculated on Cincinnati Reds’ potential moves but indicated uncertainty about which players they would be willing to part with from their deep system.
Finally, Callis commented on Boston Red Sox’s active trading behavior this year and suggested they have position-player talent available for possible deals given roster constraints at Fenway Park.
