MLB Trade Rumors: 5 Diamondbacks Named As Trade Deadline Candidates To Move
The Arizona Diamondbacks continue to hang around on the periphery of the National League Wild Card race, 2.5 games back, and it's still uncertain at this point as to whether they'll be sellers or buyers at the trade deadline come August 3.
But insider Bob Nightengale tells us that if they finally do decide to sell, there will be five notable trade candidates on the roster who could bring in a nice haul for the team. And basically, it's their entire starting staff plus the closer.
- The Diamondbacks, who have been mired in mediocrity, could have starters Eduardo Rodriguez, Michael Soroka, Merrill Kelly and Zac Gallen available along with closer Paul Sewald.
Eduardo Rodriguez
The veteran starter is having a career year, with a 2.29 ERA, while holding batters to a .223 average. With another year left on his contract at $19M, he would bring back a huge package if the Snakes decide to move him.
Michael Soroka
The No. 2 man in the Arizona rotation, 8-3 with a 3.07 ERA, is finally back to pitching like he did in his young 20s, before tearing his Achilles tendon—twice—and missing two seasons.
Merrill Kelly
The D-Backs traded him last year at the deadline, then re-signed him. With a 5.38 ERA, it's doubtbul they'd be able to get the prospect haul they got for him last year from the Texas Rangers (two top ten pitching prospects, and their #13 prospect).
Zac Gallen
They tried to trade Gallen at last year's deadline, but his dreadful season didn't get them any favorable offers. He's been even worse this year (much worse, with a 6.34 ERA), so again, there won't be any big prospect packages being offered here.
Paul Sewald
Back to being a full-time closer at the age of 36, Sewald will certainly be in demand if he's put on the market. High-leverage relievers always bring back a good premium at the trade deadline.
As noted by former pitcher Archie Bradley, the next two weeks of games after the All-Star Break will make—or Break—the Diamondbacks' season and their decision for the deadline.
“Realistically, these next two, three series out of the gate is really quickly going to determine who’s going to be a Diamondback and who’s not.”
— Arizona Sports (@AZSports) July 15, 2026
With the trade deadline looming, former Diamondbacks pitcher @ArchieBradley7 stressed the importance of Arizona getting off to a good… pic.twitter.com/TmuqOwieYt