With the MLB trade deadline looming at 6pm ET on Thursday (July 31), teams across the league are scrambling to make final moves in hopes of strengthening their postseason chances. Whether it’s landing a power bat, a reliable bullpen arm, or depth in the rotation, playoff contenders are hunting for the missing piece that could push them over the edge.
Several potential difference-makers remain available, and with so much at stake, fans can expect a flurry of last-minute deals. As the clock winds down, the pressure is on for front offices to act fast and capitalise on opportunities.
Mariners reacquire third baseman Eugenio Suarez
The Seattle Mariners made a major move on the eve of the MLB trade deadline, reacquiring slugging third baseman Eugenio Suárez from the Arizona Diamondbacks, according to multiple reports. In return, Arizona will receive three minor leaguers: first baseman Tyler Locklear and right-handed pitchers Hunter Cranton and Juan Burgos.
Suarez, 34, was widely considered one of the top power bats available ahead of the Thursday deadline. He now returns to Seattle, the team that originally traded him to Arizona in November 2023.
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This season, Suarez has clubbed 36 home runs – tied for the major league lead – and driven in 87 RBIs while batting .248 in 105 games. He earned his second career All-Star selection and made history as the first MLB player ever traded midseason after hitting 35 or more homers.Suárez previously spent two seasons with the Mariners in 2022 and 2023, where he hit a combined 53 home runs and drove in 183 RBIs. With this bold move, Seattle sends a clear signal that it’s all-in on the postseason, bolstering its lineup with a proven slugger who’s already familiar with the club and city.Cubs acquire Michael Soroka from Nationals
The Chicago Cubs bolstered their rotation Wednesday night by acquiring veteran right-hander Michael Soroka from the Washington Nationals, as they push for the NL Central crown. In exchange, Washington received a pair of minor leaguers: infielder Ronny Cruz and outfielder Christian Franklin.
Soroka, 27, was an All-Star in 2019 with the Atlanta Braves and joined the Nationals this offseason on a one-year, $9 million deal. This season, he holds a 3-8 record with a 4.87 ERA, providing a mix of experience and innings for a Washington team in transition.
Reds get Ke’Bryan Hayes from Pirates
On Wednesday, the Cincinnati Reds acquired third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for reliever Taylor Rogers and shortstop prospect Sammy Stafura.
Tyler Rogers traded to Mets
In a separate deal the same day, Taylor’s twin brother, Tyler Rogers, was traded from the San Francisco Giants to the New York Mets. The Giants received a strong return for the rental reliever: right-hander José Butto, top outfield prospect Drew Gilbert, and pitching prospect Blade Tidwell.