When it comes to MLB trades, the landscape can often feel like a different universe compared to the NBA’s flurry of player movements. You watch basketball executives swinging for the fences, while baseball’s front offices seem more cautious, and who can blame them? Nobody relishes being the GM who trades away a promising player for a short-term fix that bites them in the long run, like the infamous Javier Baez trade saga.
Every so often, however, we witness jaw-dropping deals that shake up the league. Take the 2022 trade deadline, for example, when the San Diego Padres made headlines by landing superstar Juan Soto. In that blockbuster, they traded away five top-tier prospects to bring in a player still firmly in his prime. Flash forward to just last month, and we saw another surprise when the Boston Red Sox sent Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants. Deals like these keep fans dreaming about what might happen at the trade deadline.
As we approach July 31, let’s dive into three star players who, barring an earth-shattering offer, are likely to stay put. These are talents that have been tossed around in speculative fan trade discussions, and while it may seem unlikely for their respective teams to move them, every player has a price, right? We’ll call these hypothetical trades “Godfather offers.” Here’s a breakdown of what it would take to snag these stars.
Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh Pirates
Why he’s critical to the Pirates: Skenes is having an exceptional season, suggesting a potential Cy Young Award might be in his future. He’s emerging as not just a top pitcher but a cornerstone for any franchise looking to compete. With team control extending through 2029 and not facing arbitration until 2027, the Pirates have time on their side. Still, the reality of baseball is that injuries can alter a pitcher’s trajectory at any moment.
Potential Offers:
- New York Mets: SS/CF Jett Williams, RHP Jonah Tong, RHP Nolan McLean, IF Ronny Mauricio, OF Carson Benge
- Los Angeles Dodgers: C/OF Dalton Rushing, OF Josue De Paula, IF Alex Freeland, RHP Emmet Sheehan, LHP Jackson Ferris
- Detroit Tigers: OF Max Clark, SS Kevin McGonigle, RHP Jackson Jobe, IF Colt Keith, RHP Sawyer Gipson-Long
Among these, the Tigers have the prospect pool to make a compelling case. With two elite prospects in Clark and McGonigle, plus a strong supporting cast, they could offer the Pirates a package that addresses some glaring needs, particularly in center field and shortstop. Skenes joining a rotation with Tarik Skubal would make for a formidable duo in Detroit.
Ronald Acuña Jr., Atlanta Braves
Why he’s a linchpin: Acuña has established himself as one of the premier hitters post-injury. His contract is a steal at $17 million annually through 2028, making it a no-brainer for Atlanta to hold onto him during his prime years. However, with lingering knee concerns and Atlanta’s struggles this season, there’s a chance they might entertain offers if the right one comes along.
Potential Offers:
- Milwaukee Brewers: SS Jesus Made, SS Luis Pena, OF Sal Frelick, RHP Logan Henderson, RHP Abner Uribe
- Tampa Bay Rays: SS Carson Williams, RHP Shane Baz, OF Theo Gillen, RHP Yoniel Curet, RHP Brody Hopkins
If any team has the motivation to make a blockbuster trade, it’s the Seattle Mariners. They’re seeking a boost in production and have an enviable farm system. Adding Acuña could exponentially upgrade their offense and take the pressure off other players.
Byron Buxton, Minnesota Twins
Why he’s valuable: Despite the Twins’ struggles under .500, Buxton has been a standout and is on pace for a career-high WAR. His contract is also appealing at $15.1 million through 2028. That said, his injury history raises the question of whether the Twins would consider entertaining offers.
Potential Offers:
- Philadelphia Phillies: RHP Andrew Painter and OF Justin Crawford
- Kansas City Royals: LHP Cole Ragans and LHP David Shields
The Phillies have been in search of an outfield boost, and moving Painter, one of the game’s top pitching prospects, would be a bold move that reflects their win-now mentality. Meanwhile, the Royals may have a more challenging proposal given their need for a competitive rebuild.
As we stand on the brink of the trade deadline, the air is thick with anticipation. Will we see unexpected fireworks, or will it settle into a flurry of smaller transactions? With the season still wide-open, it’s the perfect time for teams to consider some outside-the-box thinking.
