MLB 2026: What all 30 teams must do before the trade deadline
The MLB trade deadline is approaching, and teams are gearing up for a busy period of deals and moves. With the deadline set for August 3, it's time to take a look at what each of the 30 teams needs to do to position themselves for success. From arming for October to building for better days, every team has its own strategy and goals for the remainder of the season.
Arming for October
Teams with high playoff probabilities are focusing on strengthening their rosters for the postseason. The Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, and New York Yankees are among the top contenders, and they're looking to address any weaknesses before the deadline.
Los Angeles Dodgers: With a strong record and a star-studded lineup, the Dodgers are in a good position. However, they can still make moves to enhance their chances of a three-peat. Skubal could be a key addition, and the Dodgers can play spoiler in the trade market to hinder other contenders.
Atlanta Braves: The Braves have been the best team in baseball, but they need to address their shortstop and rotation. They're likely to be mentioned in the Skubal sweepstakes, and a clear upgrade at shortstop is a priority. The Braves' strong start has them in a good position, but they need to make strategic moves to maintain their lead.
New York Yankees: The Yankees have a decent offense and a stellar starting rotation, but they need to add another righty bat, a third baseman, and bullpen help. With a huge buffer, they can afford to take a step back and focus on October.
Positioning for a Push
Teams with reasonable playoff probabilities are looking to solidify their position for October. The Tampa Bay Rays, Seattle Mariners, and Cleveland Guardians are among those aiming to make a push.
Tampa Bay Rays: The Rays have been inconsistent, but they need to find their footing. With a recent downturn, they're trying to balance short-term needs with longer-term payroll management. The focus is on finding what they are and making strategic additions.
Seattle Mariners: The Mariners have righted the ship after an uneven start. They need to create separation in the division and leverage their strong rotation. Jerry Dipoto must decide how to best use their six-deep rotation in the trade market, potentially targeting additional offense.
Cleveland Guardians: The Guardians' momentum has slowed, but they're still in the running for the AL Central. They need to tweak around the margins and remain fixed in the group rather than slipping onto the subtraction tier. The playoff standings will influence their approach, and they might make more aggressive moves.
Not Out of It... Yet
Teams currently on the fringe of the playoff outlook are still in the running. The Chicago White Sox, Athletics, and Houston Astros are among those aiming to make a push.
Chicago White Sox: The White Sox need to provide proof that their rebuild has turned the corner. They're facing a brutal schedule, but if they survive and remain in playoff position, Chris Getz can make strategic moves to plug holes in their pitching staff.
Athletics: The Athletics need their underachievers to find their level and their bullpen to find consistency. The rotation must stabilize as it gets younger, and Nick Kurtz is a key player to watch. The A's need to make strategic moves to improve their chances of a breakout.
Houston Astros: The Astros need to be realistic and assess their window. They're playing better, but if they're still under .500 by late July, they might need to shift their focus toward the future. GM Dana Brown has indicated that they won't trade Yordan Alvarez or Jeremy Pena, but the time may come to look ahead.
Building for Better Days
Teams that should be favoring future value over present value with remaining in-season moves. The Miami Marlins, Kansas City Royals, and Cincinnati Reds are among those looking to the future.
Miami Marlins: The Marlins need to get Sandy Alcantara back to his Cy Young level and make strategic moves to strengthen their roster. The organization is trending up, and a successful season could lead to attractive trade candidates.
Kansas City Royals: The Royals need to admit defeat and focus on the future. With a strong core, they can make strategic moves to add depth and target players on expiring deals. It's time to look ahead to 2027.
Cincinnati Reds: The Reds need to address their pitching staff, which has completely dissolved. Bullpen issues have been a problem, and Terry Francona must figure out how to turn things around. A recovery is unlikely, but the Reds can still make strategic moves to improve their chances of reaching the postseason.
In conclusion, the MLB trade deadline is a critical period for teams to make moves and position themselves for success. From arming for October to building for better days, every team has its own strategy and goals. As the season progresses, we'll see which teams make the most strategic moves and ultimately emerge as contenders for the championship.
