2024 MLB Trade Deadline: 4 Teams on the Brink – Buy or Sell?

Tampa Bay Rays

The Rays, traditionally dominant, find themselves struggling with a 40-41 record. Despite preseason odds of 59.6% to make the playoffs, they've underperformed. Trade rumors surround stars Randy Arozarena and Yandy Diaz, although both would demand significant returns. Free agents Brandon Lowe, Amed Rosario, and Phil Maton could be traded if Tampa opts to sell.

However, being less than a handful of games out of the Wild Card, the Rays might decide to buy, needing offensive and pitching upgrades as they rank 19th in batting average (.236) and 22nd in ERA (4.25). https://www.sportsgrid.com/mlb/players/phillip-maton/57870

New York Mets

The Mets’ season has been a rollercoaster. A poor start has been countered by a recent hot streak, putting them over .500 and just outside of a Wild Card spot. Potential sellers include Harrison Bader, J.D. Martinez, Luis Severino, and Sean Manaea, all free agents after this season. However, owner Steve Cohen’s willingness to invest suggests they might be buyers.

Ranking top-10 in average, home runs, runs, and OPS, the Mets’ offense is solid. Their bullpen, weakened by Edwin Diaz’s suspension and Drew Smith’s injury, needs reinforcement. With a favorable upcoming schedule, the Mets are poised for significant deadline moves.

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Houston Astros

The Astros, mirroring the Mets, recovered from a disastrous April to sit around .500 and just a few games out of a Wild Card spot, while still in the division race. Their .263 team batting average and .742 OPS are among the league’s best, but injuries have plagued their pitching staff, resulting in a 4.07 ERA.

If Houston maintains their form, they'll likely be buyers, seeking to solidify their playoff chances. However, injuries to key players like Kyle Tucker could prompt selling, with Justin Verlander and Alex Bregman potential trade chips. The next month will determine Houston's strategy at the deadline.

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Washington Nationals

Surprising many, the Nationals find themselves in the thick of the NL Wild Card race.  Washington within striking distance of a postseason spot, despite a recent losing streak. The debut of top prospect James Wood on July 1st signaled a possible push for October. If the Nationals choose to buy, bolstering their offense is crucial, as they rank 24th in OPS (.671). Jesse Winker and C.J. Abrams have been the only consistent hitters.

On the flip side, selling could see Winker and Joey Gallo—on expiring contracts—being traded. Pitcher Trevor Williams and closer Kyle Finnegan are also potential trade candidates. Washington’s direction hinges on their performance in the next few weeks.

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Tampa Bay Rays

The Rays, traditionally dominant, find themselves struggling with a 40-41 record. Despite preseason odds of 59.6% to make the playoffs, they've underperformed. Trade rumors surround stars Randy Arozarena and Yandy Diaz, although both would demand significant returns. Free agents Brandon Lowe, Amed Rosario, and Phil Maton could be traded if Tampa opts to sell.

However, being less than a handful of games out of the Wild Card, the Rays might decide to buy, needing offensive and pitching upgrades as they rank 19th in batting average (.236) and 22nd in ERA (4.25). https://www.sportsgrid.com/mlb/players/phillip-maton/57870