The GM meetings in Scottsdale, Arizona set the stage for trade season across the league, with teams signaling their interest in both trade talks and free-agent players. While free agency usually dominates MLB transactions during November and early December, breakout trades often take place. This year, numerous big names are up for discussion, but nothing is set in stone. Trade talks serve as a critical aspect of front offices’ operations, even if they frequently don’t pan out.
Starting pitchers currently dominate the free-agent market, but some teams are hesitant to invest over $100 million for one of the top five starters. Instead, they are considering trading for front-of-the-rotation pitchers, limiting their long-term commitments but still securing top talent. Position players in the free-agent market aren’t as plentiful, except for headliners like Cody Bellinger and Matt Chapman. As a result, teams seeking a dominant middle-of-the-order bat are exploring potential trades with the Padres and the Mets.
While players like Juan Soto and Pete Alonso may stay with their current teams and sign extensions, it’s also feasible that they could be traded before the Winter Meetings in early December. In anticipation of trade season, here are my top eight prospects that could be traded this winter, along with my insights about their performance and the current industry buzz:
1. Juan Soto, LF, Padres
2. Corbin Burnes, RHP, Brewers
3. Tyler Glasnow, RHP, Rays
4. Pete Alonso, 1B, Mets
5. Shane Bieber, RHP, Guardians
6. Anthony Santander, RF, Orioles
7. Jonathan India, 2B, Reds
Stay tuned for more updates and developments in MLB trade discussions as the season progresses!
