MLB Teams Prepare for Crucial Trade Deadline Decisions

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — As the 2025 MLB season approaches the trade deadline on July 31, teams are evaluating their positions in the standings and what moves they need to make to improve their chances of postseason success.

More than halfway through June, clubs are beginning to categorize themselves into four groups: postseason locks, contenders seeking playoff spots, teams in a gray area, and those looking forward to the future. The urgency to make strategic trades is increasing as teams assess needs and potential upgrades.

The Detroit Tigers, with a win average of 99.6%, are positioned as nearly a guaranteed postseason team. They may focus on enhancing their bullpen with strikeout pitchers ahead of the deadline, as their current staff ranks low in strikeout and swing-and-miss rates.

Meanwhile, the New York Mets, who hold a 98.2 win average, are eyeing a center field upgrade. With their primary option struggling, the Mets might look to bolster this position through trades.

The Los Angeles Dodgers also face pitching dilemmas with numerous injuries affecting their rotation. They need to assess which pitchers they can rely on as the postseason approaches and consider potential trades to stabilize their staff.

The Chicago Cubs, averaging 97.9 runs, have a top-performing bullpen but need reinforcement in their rotation. They are expected to prioritize pitching as they aim for the top seed in the National League.

Other teams, such as the Yankees and Astros, are strategizing upgrades in pitching and hitting power, respectively. With playoff probabilities soaring, these teams must weigh immediate improvements against long-term strategies.

The trade deadline is more than an opportunity to acquire talent; it’s also a pivotal moment for assessing the identity and ambitions of each team. Executives will be working the phones in the coming weeks to determine which paths to pursue as the end of July draws near.

As the clock ticks down to the deadline, teams must make informed choices that could shape their postseason fates.