9 MLB Players With Rising Trade Value Ahead of the Deadline

Nine Major League Baseball players are seeing their trade value increase as the summer deadline approaches. According to recent performance data, assets like the Reds’ Bleday and Angels’ Detmers are gaining attention from scouts and executives due to strong current statistics and remaining club control.

Which players are currently seeing an increase in trade value?

Several players have posted strong numbers through Wednesday’s games. The Reds’ Bleday has 11 home runs, 29 RBIs and a .930 OPS in 39 games. The Rockies’ Goodman has hit 18 home runs with an .837 OPS across 63 games.

On the mound, the Angels’ Detmers is 1-0 with a 1.73 ERA in his last four starts, recording 36 strikeouts in 26 innings. The Twins’ Ryan is 2-0 with a 2.39 ERA over his last six starts, while the Cardinals’ Gray is 5-0 with a 2.43 ERA since returning from a hamstring injury.

Other players with rising stock include the Giants’ Schmitt, who has 15 home runs and 38 RBIs in 61 games. The Red Sox’s Duran has recorded nine homers and a .767 OPS since May 1. Additionally, the Angels’ Neto has a .921 OPS over his last 23 games, and the Cardinals’ O’Brien has a 3.68 ERA with 17 saves in 21 opportunities.

Did You Know? Detmers, who currently ranks in the 89th percentile of the league in strikeout percentage, was a first-round pick in 2020.

How does club control influence these potential trade assets?

Remaining club control makes several of these players more appealing to contenders. Goodman is under control for three more seasons, while Bleday and Duran each have two years of control remaining. Detmers also has two years of club control left.

The Angels’ Neto is arbitration-eligible for three more years. The Giants’ Schmitt will be arbitration-eligible for the first time next offseason. O’Brien has four years of club control, though he is 31 years old.

Some players face different contractual situations. Gray is in his final guaranteed year, earning $31 million, with a $30 million club option for 2027 that includes a $10 million buyout. Ryan earns $6.1 million this season and has a $13 million mutual option for 2027 that is likely to be declined.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the intersection of high performance and multi-year club control creates a window of maximum value for selling teams, particularly when a player’s age or team trajectory suggests their stock may not rise further.

What team circumstances could lead to these trades?

Organizational shifts may trigger moves. The Rockies are under new president of baseball operations Paul DePodesta, which could make previously “untouchable” players like Goodman available. The Angels hold the worst record in the American League, which may lead them to a rebuild and the trade of assets like Neto or Detmers to acquire young players.

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Roster congestion also plays a role. Duran could benefit from a change of scenery because the Boston outfield is expected to be crowded once Roman Anthony returns from the injured list.

For the Cardinals, the decision to trade closer O’Brien would be difficult as the team is currently in playoff position. However, because this was viewed by many as a transition year, the team may choose to capitalize on his current value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which player has the most home runs among those listed?
Goodman of the Rockies has hit 18 home runs in 63 games.

What is the current status of Gray’s contract?
Gray earns $31 million this season in his final guaranteed year, with a $30 million club option for 2027 and a $10 million buyout.

Why might the Angels consider trading Neto?
The Angels have the worst record in the American League and may trade the 25-year-old shortstop to bring back a haul of young players.

Which of these players do you think would be the most impactful addition to a championship contender?