Another MLB trade deadline has come and gone.
All 30 MLB teams made at least one move in what ended up being an active deadline. Tarik Skubal was the most notable player to be dealt, with his move to the Los Angeles Dodgers boosting their World Series odds in a quest for a three-peat.
But many moves impacted the outlook for the 2026 season. As a result, I’ve put together some of my best bets and predictions following the trade deadline.
Post-MLB Trade Deadline Best Bets 2026
Seattle Mariners to Win the AL West (+170)
The top of the American League West division played a minor role in this year’s deadline.
The Texas Rangers considered trading away Jacob deGrom while being two games back of the division lead. The Houston Astros, who currently sit in first in the division, landed outfielder Daulton Varsho for Spencer Arrighetti.
As for last year’s AL West champs, the Seattle Mariners acquired reliever Seranthony DomÃnguez and outfielder Taylor Ward. They sent away Luis Castillo, but they have more than enough pitching depth to make up for it.
In the end, my opinion that the Mariners are the best team in the AL West remains unchanged. I think now is the time to back their division odds, as most projections have them overcoming a two-game deficit to win a tight race.
FanGraphs gives Seattle a 42.2% chance of winning the AL West, suggesting a fair price of +135.
Guardians to Win the AL Central (+200)
The Cleveland Guardians were rare buyers at the deadline, hoping to erase their three-game deficit to the Chicago White Sox in the AL Central. I think their additions could help them win a division crown for a third straight season.
Cleveland added outfielder Jo Adell and first baseman Nathaniel Lowe to its lineup. The latter was one of the best offensive players moved at the deadline by wRC+ (120), while the former could provide some pop against lefties.
In addition, the Guardians acquired All-Star starter Foster Griffin from the Washington Nationals. He’s spun a 3.06 ERA in 22 starts and should help solidify Cleveland’s rotation.
PECOTA gives the Guardians a 47.7% chance of winning the division, whereas their +200 odds suggest an implied probability of 33.33%.
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