MLB trade-deadline winners and losers

The 2023 MLB trade deadline has come and gone. While some teams managed to strengthen their rosters and position themselves for a playoff push, others failed to make the necessary moves to improve their chances of success. Let's take a closer look at the winners and losers of this year's trade deadline.

Winners: Texas Rangers

With the Astros breathing down their necks in the AL West, the Rangers knew they had to make significant moves to stay ahead. And they did just that.

The Rangers made several key acquisitions to improve their pitching staff, adding Aroldis Chapman, Jordan Montgomery, Chris Stratton and even Max Scherzer. These additions filled their remaining needs and strengthened an already-formidable group.

Texas acquired impactful players without sacrificing the organization's future, which is a testament to their front office's savvy and strategic planning.

With their deadline haul, the Rangers sent a clear message to their fan base and the rest of MLB: We aim to win it all. The team is undoubtedly fired up by the front office's vote of confidence.

Losers: New York Yankees

While the Yankees were not explicitly labeled as buyers or sellers at the trade deadline, it was evident that they needed to make some moves to revitalize a struggling offense. But the Yankees failed to address their offensive woes and made minor additions to their bullpen.

Many expected the team to make a splash and acquire impactful hitters. However, they only added Keynan Middleton to their already-strong bullpen and Spencer Howard as a depth piece.

By standing pat at the deadline, the Yankees missed an opportunity to improve their chances of pushing for the postseason. They find themselves in last place in the highly competitive AL East and are 3.5 games back in the wild-card race.

It's baffling to see a team with the second-highest payroll in baseball fail to make significant moves to address their glaring offensive issues.

Winners: Houston Astros

The defending World Series champions proved once again that they are not content to rest on their laurels. Despite already having a solid roster, the Astros made significant moves at the trade deadline to bolster their chances of repeating as champions.

The most significant moves was reuniting with former ace Justin Verlander (6-5), acquiring him from the Mets and absorbing a substantial portion of his contract. While it cost the Astros two top prospects, the addition of Verlander significantly strengthens their rotation.

The Astros also made a significant trade with the Chicago White Sox, acquiring right-handed reliever Kendall Graveman in exchange for catcher Korey Lee. Graveman is 3-4 with a 3.40 ERA and 43 strikeouts in 45 innings. This trade marks Graveman's return to the Astros, as he previously played for the team in 2021 and played a crucial role in their World Series run. Graveman was initially traded to the Astros from the Seattle Mariners before becoming a free agent and signing a three-year, $24 million deal with the White Sox. This trade not only strengthens the Astros' bullpen but also reunites Graveman with fellow reliever Rafael Montero.

The made other strategic moves to improve their roster, addressing areas of need and fortifying their depth. These acquisitions, combined with their already-talented core, should make the Astros a formidable force the rest of the regular season and beyond.

Losers: San Francisco Giants and Cincinnati Reds

The Giants and Reds find themselves in the losers' category due to their lack of activity. The Giants have performed admirably this season, sitting just 2.5 games back of the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West race. They are also tied for first place in the wild-card standings. 

Despite being in a strong position, the Giants failed to make significant moves to improve their roster and keep pace with their division rivals.

Similarly, the Reds, who are leading their division by a slim margin, did not make the necessary moves to solidify their position and fend off the competition. With the NL Central race tightening, the Reds missed an opportunity to strengthen their roster and gain an edge over their rivals.

The Giants and Reds watched as other teams in their divisions made aggressive moves to bolster their rosters. The Diamondbacks, Dodgers, Brewers and Padres all made significant acquisitions, while the Giants and Reds made minor additions to their teams.

Winners: Chicago Cubs

While the Milwaukee Brewers made significant moves to solidify their position as favorites in the NL Central, the Chicago Cubs quietly moved to stay in the race.

The Cubs acquired Jeimer Candelario from the Washington Nationals and Jose Cuas from the Kansas City Royals. Candelario, in particular, was one of the most sought-after bats on the trade market. These acquisitions provide the Cubs with additional depth and talent as they push for the playoffs.

What sets the Cubs apart is their recent form, as they have been on a hot streak and climbing up the standings. With their deadline additions, the Cubs have positioned themselves as contenders in the NL Central and are within striking distance of the top spot.

While the Brewers may be the favorites in the division, the Cubs have shown that they are unwilling to back down. With a renewed sense of purpose and a bolstered roster, the Cubs are poised to make a strong push for a playoff berth.

Winner and loser: New York Mets

The New York Mets had high hopes heading into the 2023 season after a successful 2022 campaign. However, things quickly unraveled, and the team found itself in a position to sell at the trade deadline.

The Mets made several significant trades, including sending Scherzer, Verlander, Mark Canha and Tommy Pham to other teams. These trades allowed the Mets to revitalize their farm system and position themselves for future success.