5 MLB pitchers who will be traded before the trade deadline

Jul 21, 2026 - 12:25
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5 MLB pitchers who will be traded before the trade deadline

With the MLB trade deadline rapidly approaching, front offices across baseball are weighing whether to buy, sell, or make a blockbuster move that could reshape the postseason race. While some of the biggest names on the market remain uncertain, several talented pitchers could find themselves wearing new uniforms before the deadline passes. Here are five bold trade predictions, along with the teams that make the most sense as their landing spots.

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Kevin Gausman to the Chicago Cubs

Jun 25, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Kevin Gausman (34) pitches to the Texas Rangers during the third inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

The Chicago Cubs have emerged as one of the National League’s top contenders, but adding another proven veteran starter could elevate them into true World Series favorites.

Kevin Gausman fits that mold perfectly. The veteran right-hander brings postseason experience, durability, and the ability to pitch at the front of a rotation. If the Toronto Blue Jays decide to shift their focus toward the future, moving Gausman could help replenish their farm system while giving Chicago another reliable arm for October.

Tarik Skubal to the Los Angeles Dodgers

If the Detroit Tigers make Tarik Skubal available, he’ll immediately become the most coveted pitcher on the trade market.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have never been shy about pursuing elite talent, and they possess both the financial resources and prospect depth to pull off a blockbuster deal. Adding Skubal would give Los Angeles another ace-caliber starter and strengthen an already formidable rotation for another championship run.

Mason Miller to the New York Yankees

Sep 9, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres relief pitcher Mason Miller (22) celebrates after striking out a batter during the eighth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images

The New York Yankees know that dominant bullpens win playoff games, making Mason Miller an ideal trade target.

Whether used as a closer or in a high-leverage relief role, Miller’s overpowering fastball and swing-and-miss arsenal would immediately improve New York’s late-inning options. If the Yankees are committed to making a deep postseason push, acquiring one of baseball’s most electric relievers would be a logical move.

Reid Detmers to the Atlanta Braves

Reid Detmers remains one of the more intriguing young pitchers who could benefit from a change of scenery.

The Atlanta Braves have consistently developed pitching talent, making them an excellent fit for the talented left-hander. While Detmers has shown flashes of top-of-the-rotation potential, greater consistency has been elusive. Atlanta could provide the environment needed to help him reach that ceiling.

Freddy Peralta Returns to Milwaukee

May 29, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta (51) delivers a pitch against the Miami Marlins during the first inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

One of the more interesting possibilities is a reunion between Freddy Peralta and the Milwaukee Brewers.

If the New York Mets become sellers at the deadline, Peralta would likely attract significant interest from contenders seeking rotation help. Milwaukee already knows exactly what the veteran right-hander brings to the table, and bringing him back could provide the Brewers with another dependable starter as they chase another postseason appearance.

Final Thoughts

Every trade deadline produces a few surprises, but these five pitchers have logical fits with contenders looking to strengthen their pitching staffs. Whether it’s Kevin Gausman joining the Cubs, Tarik Skubal landing with the Dodgers, Mason Miller bolstering the Yankees’ bullpen, Reid Detmers getting a fresh start in Atlanta, or Freddy Peralta returning to Milwaukee, each move has the potential to significantly impact the playoff race during the second half of the season.


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