Top 5 Players Who Could Be Waiver Wire/Free Agent Acquisitions

August 12, 2025 , , , ,
Washington Nationals first baseman Josh Bell hits the ball during 2025 game.

As the 2025 MLB season approaches the final stretch, there are still opportunities for teams to strengthen their rosters via the waiver wire. 

Top 5 MLB Players Who Could Hit the Waiver Wire Soon

While the trade deadline has passed, players who are either underperforming or whose teams are looking to save on contracts could be released and claimed by playoff contenders. Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report has identified players who are prime candidates to hit the waiver wire in the coming weeks. Here are the top five players who could be on the move:

1. Josh Bell, 1B/DH, Washington Nationals
 Josh Bell’s strong second-half performance could make him a valuable addition to a team in need of a left-handed bat. The Nationals have already traded away most of their impending free agents, but Bell could be next. While he has struggled in 2025, hitting just .229, his recent uptick in performance with a .280 average in the last three months could make him an intriguing waiver candidate. Bell's ability to play both 1B and DH makes him versatile for a contender’s roster .

2. Ryan Pressly, RHP, Free Agent
 Once a dominant closer, Ryan Pressly’s recent struggles with the Cubs have led to his release. However, the 36-year-old still boasts an impressive career ERA of 3.33 and had a solid first half of the season before a few rough outings. Now a free agent, Pressly could be a steal for a contender looking to bolster its bullpen at a low cost, especially if he’s willing to sign a team-friendly deal .

3. Michael A. Taylor, OF, Chicago White Sox
 Michael A. Taylor’s recent surge could make him a late-season target. Although his overall numbers for 2025 are lackluster, his recent home run streak and defensive versatility could appeal to a team looking for outfield depth. Despite the White Sox's struggles, Taylor's improved performance makes him an interesting candidate to be claimed off waivers .

4. Alex Verdugo, OF, Free Agent
 After a strong start to 2025, Alex Verdugo struggled to maintain consistency and was eventually released by the Atlanta Braves. At just 28 years old, Verdugo still has the potential to be a solid contributor, especially with his ability to get on base and play solid defense. Teams in need of an outfield boost could take a flyer on him in hopes he recaptures his 2024 form .

5. Mike Yastrzemski, OF, Kansas City Royals
 Yastrzemski has turned things around since being traded from San Francisco to Kansas City, posting a .379 OBP and an OPS over 1.000 in his first few games with the Royals. If Kansas City falls out of contention, they could look to waive Yastrzemski, who could offer a team a quality bat for the postseason run. His ability to provide both power and speed makes him a potential game-changer for a playoff-bound squad .

With waivers set to heat up as the August 31 deadline for postseason eligibility approaches, these players could be valuable assets for teams making their final push toward the playoffs.

Photo Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

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