MLB Trade Deadline 2026: Ranking the Top Trade Targets

The 2026 MLB trade deadline is set for 6 p.m. ET on Monday, serving as a pivotal point in the season calendar for all 30 teams.

This is the chance for teams to improve their roster, whether to boost their World Series odds in 2026 or their overall outlook in future campaigns.

So, who are some of the best available targets this year?

Top MLB Trade Deadline Candidates 2026

Tarik Skubal

The Detroit Tigers will be fielding plenty of calls on left-hander Tarik Skubal, who is in the final year of his deal after winning the last two Cy Young awards. He’s set to make a lot of money in free agency, and it’s unclear if the Tigers will be able to pay him.

They could opt to trade him in hopes of netting something in return before he leaves in free agency.

Mason Miller

It seems unlikely that the San Diego Padres would trade away closer Mason Miller after making a big splash for him last summer, but nobody ever knows what AJ Preller will do. Miller could fetch a great return as the best reliever in the sport.

Joe Ryan

After surviving the Minnesota Twins’ fire sale last year, right-hander Joe Ryan could be on the move this time around. The Twins ace would be a valuable addition to any pitching staff in October, having earned consecutive All-Star nods.

Jeremy Peña

The Houston Astros have recently shown a willingness to deal players before they have to pay them, so don’t be surprised if former World Series MVP Jeremy Peña is dealt with 1.5 years of team control left.

CJ Abrams

There has been enough trade buzz around CJ Abrams since the offseason, so he’s worth putting on this list. But he still has 2.5 years left on his deal and was recently the Nationals’ first All-Star starter since 2018. It could cost a lot to acquire Abrams.

Jose Soriano

The Los Angeles Angels need to replenish their farm system and begin building something. They can do so by trading 27-year-old right-hander Jose Soriano, who is a frontline starter with 2.5 years left on his deal.

Reid Detmers

After spending last season in the bullpen, left-hander Reid Detmers has made the most of his return to the Angels’ rotation. He knows how to miss bats and has 2.5 years of club control left, making him an attractive target for teams trying to maximize their upcoming window.

Jung Hoo Lee

The San Francisco Giants desperately need to improve their farm system, which could make outfielder Jung Hoo Lee available during the best season of his career. He hits for contact, doesn’t strike out, and can play multiple outfield positions.

Casey Mize

If the Tigers move on from Skubal, they might as well see what they can get for right-hander Casey Mize. The former No. 1 overall pick is having the best season of his career, but he’s set to hit free agency this winter.

Luis Arraez

Luis Arraez put together another All-Star campaign, thanks to his impressive batting average and competence as a second baseman. He could be a nice option for a playoff team looking to acquire a reliable hitter this season.