With the MLB All-Star break and Draft in the rearview mirror, attention now turns to the July 31 trade deadline.
The Philadelphia Phillies have agreed to sign veteran reliever David Robertson to a contract for the remainder of the season. The deal is worth a prorated $16 million, amounting to approximately $6 million for his services. Robertson, 40, had been a free agent this season after last pitching on September 29 of the previous year. In 2024 with the Texas Rangers, he posted a 3.00 ERA and 1.11 WHIP with 99 strikeouts in 72 innings.
The signing addresses a significant need for the Phillies, whose bullpen entered Sunday ranked 23rd in the majors with a 4.36 ERA. Philadelphia is expected to pursue additional relief help, especially since late-inning specialist José Alvarado is ineligible for the playoffs due to a PED suspension.
One of the biggest questions leading up to the deadline is whether the Arizona Diamondbacks will sell after a disappointing 2025 season. According to USA Today, rivals the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox are showing interest in several Diamondbacks players. Both clubs have reportedly scouted starting pitchers Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly. The Yankees are also said to be monitoring third baseman Eugenio Suárez, who has been one of the league’s top power hitters with 32 home runs and 80 RBI.
While Gallen has had an uncharacteristically difficult season, his strong track record makes him an appealing trade target. Kelly, meanwhile, is enjoying a standout 2025 campaign.
The Atlanta Braves, on pace for 90 losses after beginning the season with division title hopes, are expected to be sellers. However, a complete team overhaul may not happen until the winter. For the upcoming deadline, the Braves are reportedly making DH Marcell Ozuna, closer Raisel Iglesias, and reliever Pierce Johnson available. Ozuna has 10-and-5 rights, allowing him to veto any trade. The team is expected to listen to offers for catcher Sean Murphy, second baseman Ozzie Albies, and center fielder Michael Harris during the offseason.
The Texas Rangers are another team that has underperformed but is unlikely to commit to a major sell-off. Currently just 2.5 games out of the final AL wild-card spot, Texas is expected to take a more measured approach. According to reports, pitchers Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi are not considered to be on the market, but outfielder Adolis García could potentially be traded.
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