MLB Offseason Buzz: Impending Trades Shake Up Rosters for 2025
ICARO Media Group
**Potential MLB Trades Signal Eventful Offseason**
As the MLB offseason looms, teams are gearing up for significant roster changes, with several key players possibly on the move. Among the noteworthy candidates is Jeffrey Springs, who, despite making only seven starts after returning from Tommy John surgery, might not attract strong offers this winter. Springs could be more of a trade target by the deadline or the 2025-26 offseason.
The Tampa Bay Rays, infamous for their regular payroll reshuffles, have already started their offseason moves by shipping Jason Adam, Randy Arozarena, Aaron Civale, and Isaac Paredes at the recent trade deadline. Players like Jeffrey Springs, Drew Rasmussen, and Jose Siri, who have smaller salaries, could be next. Notably, Zach Littell and Colin Poche, who are a year away from free agency, are also likely to be moved.
Jordan Montgomery of the Diamondbacks finds himself in a precarious situation following critical comments from team owner Ken Kendrick. After exercising his $22.5 million player option post a 6.28 ERA season, a trade seems imminent, though it will necessitate financial juggling by Arizona. Potential places for Montgomery include the Red Sox, who need pitching, and the Padres, who lost Joe Musgrove to Tommy John surgery.
The Boston Red Sox are heavily left-handed, featuring players like Wilyer Abreu, Triston Casas, Rafael Devers, Jarren Duran, and Masataka Yoshida. With more left-handed prospects like Roman Anthony, Marcelo Mayer, and Kyle Teel potentially debuting in 2025, the team may trade some of these talents to address other roster needs, especially pitching. Teams like the Mariners, Blue Jays, Cubs, and Giants could be potential trade partners.
The Cardinals are expected to trim their payroll as they transition under Chaim Bloom's leadership, with Ryan Helsley and Sonny Gray identified as possible trade assets. Gray had a standout season with a 3.84 ERA over 166 1/3 innings, while Helsley, entering his final arbitration year, projects to earn roughly $7 million. Helsley’s market may expand closer to the trade deadline, and Gray could be of interest to teams like the Reds and Orioles.
The Marlins’ promising lefty, Jesús Luzardo, remains a hot trade target despite an injury-plagued 2024. With his premium velocity and strikeout ability, Luzardo, under team control through 2026, appeals to many teams, including the Rangers, Reds, Red Sox, and Twins.
Brent Rooker of the Athletics, who impressively hit 39 home runs last season, is also generating trade buzz due to his high projected arbitration cost of $5.1 million. The Phillies, Blue Jays, and Pirates are potential destinations for Rooker’s powerful bat.
Jonathan India of the Reds, after a solid comeback season, appears to be on the trading block due to Cincinnati's wealth of infield talent. India, who is set to earn $5 million in 2025, could be a good fit for teams needing second-base help, such as the Giants, Pirates, and Yankees.
The Guardians' Josh Naylor, approaching free agency with a projected arbitration salary of $12 million, might also be traded, especially with top prospect Kyle Manzardo ready to take over first base. The Mariners, who showed interest in Naylor last year, remain a logical destination.
Adolis García of the Rangers, with subpar batting and defensive performance coupled with his $9.25 million salary, is another potential trade candidate. Teams like the Rockies and Royals could benefit from his power despite his lower on-base percentage.
Finally, the Orioles need to consolidate talent, potentially moving players like Jorge Mateo and Ryan Mountcastle to make room for up-and-comers like Heston Kjerstad and Coby Mayo. Mateo’s defensive prowess makes him a valuable asset for teams like the Braves and Twins, while Mountcastle’s bat might interest the Giants or Royals.
These potential trades highlight the dynamic offseason ahead as teams maneuver to balance their rosters in preparation for the 2025 season.