New York, December 06, 2025
Major League Baseball teams are positioning key players for offseason trades in 2025-26, driven by payroll strategy and competitive dynamics. Pitchers like MacKenzie Gore and Freddy Peralta, along with top position players, emerge as top trade candidates with potential league-wide impact.
Top Trade Candidates and Their Profiles
Leading the list is MacKenzie Gore, a left-handed pitcher for the Nationals, noted for his high upside and control through arbitration until 2027. Gore’s former No. 3 overall draft pick status places him as the most sought-after pitching asset this offseason. Other prominent pitchers include Sonny Gray, recognized for durability and consistent performance; Freddy Peralta of the Brewers, valued for pitching excellence combined with an affordable club option; and Sandy Alcantara, a high-level starter drawing considerable trade interest. Emerging starters such as Edward Cabrera and Joe Ryan also rank highly among candidates, offering youth and upside in potential transactions.
Position players feature prominently, too. Rays reliever Pete Fairbanks stands out with a strong 2025 showing and a lucrative club option that could elevate trade value. Tampa Bay’s Yandy Díaz brings premium offensive potential, while Brandon Lowe offers infield experience alongside a club option. Young controllable outfielders like Boston’s Jarren Duran and Wilyer Abreu, each with multiple years of team control, further enrich the trade landscape. Established stars such as Nolan Arenado also remain viable trade candidates depending on team plans.
Team Strategies Shaping Trade Decisions
The Tampa Bay Rays exemplify a front office focused on balancing payroll while maintaining competitive performance. This approach is driving moves to trade players like Fairbanks and Lowe, offsetting payroll commitments and promoting younger talent. The Brewers display a consistent strategy of trading elite pitchers one year prior to free agency, maximizing return on assets like Peralta.
A critical theme is the preference for young players with extended contract control, as teams seek sustainable success. Assets like Gore, Duran, Abreu, and Rockies outfielder Brenton Doyle represent highly attractive trade options due to favorable contract status and on-field potential.
Contractual Factors Influencing Trades
The presence of club options and arbitration-controlled contracts exerts significant influence on trade feasibility and valuations. Players such as Fairbanks ($11–12.5 million club option), Díaz ($12 million salary), and others with controlled contracts are positioned as valuable trade chits given the relative financial predictability and cost control they offer acquiring teams.
Broader Trade Context and Market Impact
Beyond the top-ranked names, several other notable candidates include pitchers Michael Lorenzen, Jose Quintana, and Kyle Gibson, alongside position players Randy Arozarena—controlled via arbitration through 2026—and Drew Rasmussen. Discussions about potential trades or signings involving stars like Pete Alonso also persist in offseason speculation.
This extensive pool of trade candidates reflects a dynamic MLB offseason market where strategic payroll management, contract control, and a mix of proven and emerging talent converge. As teams navigate competitive balance and financial constraints ahead of the 2026 season, these transactions will have significant implications for roster construction and league competitiveness.