Three teams that could shake up the MLB trade deadline

The hunt for the 2026 MLB postseason could be one for the ages.

All but seven teams are within 4.5 games of a playoff spot as the unofficial second half will get underway. While a playoff push is a possibility, it also decreases the number of teams willing to sell. 

A lot can change from now until the Aug. 3 trade deadline. Let's look at three teams who could make an impact on the deadline in the coming weeks.

Three teams that could shake up the trade deadline

1. San Diego Padres

At 3.5 games out of the final wild-card spot, the Padres may be the most likely of the teams on the periphery of the playoff hunt to become a seller before the deadline. USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported that other teams are keeping a close eye on the Padres as the deadline approaches. 

For his part, Padres general manager A.J. Preller is unsure what direction he will take as he said they will explore any avenue to improve the roster. Pitchers such as Lucas Giolito, Adrian Morejan and Griffin Canning, and infielder Miguel Andujar, could be of interest. 

However, the biggest trade chip could be closer Mason Miller, with teams such as the Yankees and Pirates among likely suitors. Miller would become the top reliever available, and with several years of team control left, would be of interest for any team in the majors.

2. Detroit Tigers

The Tigers have managed to claw their way back into the playoff picture, bouncing back from a horrid 5-21 stretch between May 4 and May 31. That stretch began when pitcher Tarik Skubal was scratched from his start on May 4 and underwent surgery to remove loose bodies from his left elbow.

Should the Tigers fall out of contention, Skubal would be the clear prize of the deadline. A true ace, Skubal would immediately be the best starter available and could transform any rotation. The Tigers have other options for teams unwilling to pay the cost for Skubal, with pitchers Casey Mize, Kenley Jansen and Jack Flaherty as potential trade chips. Second baseman Gleyber Torres and catcher Jake Rogers could generate interest as well.

3. Toronto Blue Jays

The Blue Jays have already sold off one piece, sending reliever Tommy Nance to the Twins. As the Blue Jays sit in the AL East basement despite being only 2.5 games out of the final wild-card spot, the defending AL champions could pull the plug on this season with an eye toward 2027.

If that is the case, the Blue Jays have several intriguing options for contending teams. Pitcher Kevin Gausman is a solid option atop a rotation, and as an impending free agent, could be an interesting rental. The caveat is that Gausman has begun to contemplate retirement, although he also expressed a desire to stay in Toronto. Outfielders Daulton Varsho and George Springer could generate interest as well.