MLB Trade Rumors: 3 Surprise Trade Candidates Named

We've talked about all the big names on the trade market this season ad nauseam. Names like Luis Robert Jr., Nolan Arenado, Sandy Alcantara. But what about those 'under-the-radar' names that haven't been discussed yet? Players who could fall into the trade candidate category, sometimes for reasons not of their own doing.

Here are three surprise trade candidates, listed with the help of Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report.

Ceddanne Rafaela, Boston Red Sox

This would be a stunning move, considering he signed an eight-year extension last year worth $50 million. The BoSox obviously like him. But they also have a super-crowded outfield on the horizon. With Masataka Yoshida rumored to be converting back to the OF when he returns, as his DH job is currently occupied by Rafael Devers, and baseball's top prospect Roman Anthony knocking (loudly) on the door.

As a center fielder, Rafaela would be in high demand for some contending teams.

Adolis Garcia, Texas Rangers

Once looking like a cornerstone piece for the Rangers, Garcia won ALCS MVP in 2023 on the team's run to the World Series title. His combination of elite power with decent speed is tough to find in the majors. But his .226 batting average since the start of the 2024 season, along with an OPS+ of 95 and a drop in power, has left many wondering if the Rangers can use him as a trade piece to bring in needed pitching.

"Could the Rangers trade him away for more of a sure thing at closer and/or a starting pitcher better than Patrick Corbin?" asks Miller.

Despite his second consecutive down season, his two All-Star years in 2021 and '23 should still leave the 32-year-old able to bring in a nice trade package in return.

Mitch Keller, Pittsburgh Pirates

The right-hander was drafted by the Pirates, and has been a Buc for his entire seven year career, including as an All-Star in 2023. But once again this season, the team is going nowhere, and saving the $60+ million left on Keller's contract over the next 3+ seasons probably looks good to the Pirates right about now, as Keller owns a 4.38 ERA and a 1.36 WHIP, while his strikeouts are down to their lowest number (6.7 K/9) in any full season of his career.

It's unorthodox to trade a long-term signed solid piece of your rotation, but Miller figures, "if the Pirates can save themselves $60 million and bolster their farm system amid another losing season, well, that has been their M.O. for decades, hasn't it?"