Top 4 Under-The-Radar Trade Candidates, Per Ex-MLB GM

All the big names are out there on the trade market — Tarik Skubal, Joe Ryan, CJ Abrams, Aroldis Chapman, Luis Arraez... But there are a few players who are lying in the weeds that could be prime targets for teams as we head full-bore into trade season.

Drawing from a list put forth by MLB GM Jim Bowden, of The Athletic, let's choose the top 4 "under-the-radar" trade candidates of the summer of 2026.

Antonio Senzatela, RHP, Colorado Rockies

Moving him from the rotation to the bullpen has paid off big-time for the hard-throwing right-hander. His four-seam fastball touches 99 mph, and he brings a sharp cutter and sinker. He's posted a 3.07 ERA while limiting opponents to a .228 batting average. That's in contrast to the narly .300 average he was surrendering as a starter over the previous nine years. He's a high-leverage reliever, and we know how in-demand they can be at the deadline.

Curtis Mead, INF, Washington Nationals

The 25-year-old has never had more than three homers in a season prior to this one, but he's broken out big-time with 14 already and a .780 OPS. He's played first, second and third base.

"The Nats are currently in position to make a postseason run, so the only way they’ll trade Mead is if they fall out of the race before Aug. 3. However, if they do, he could be their best trade bait," writes Bowden. The Nats find themselves just two games out of a Wild Card spot entering July. 

Oswald Peraza, 2B, Los Angeles Angels

While most eyes are on Jo Adell and Reid Detmers as top trade candidates on the Angels, Bowden figures that the former Yankees infielder has shown enough this season to get into the mix. 

"Every contending team is looking for players who can play multiple positions and Peraza provides just that, as he can play second and third base, shortstop and the outfield. He’s holding his own at the plate as well this year. The 26-year-old has speed and is a versatile base runner."

Jake Burger, 1B/DH, Texas Rangers

Finally, on our menu of under-the-radar dishes, let's go with a Burger. The power-packed corner man is doing what Jake Burger does: Hit home runs and strike out a lot. But he brings some much-needed power that teams could be looking for at the deadline. He's had a hot May and June, with a .280 average, .845 OPS and 9 HR and 33 RBIs.

"Even though the Rangers are looking to improve their offense, Burger may be traded yet again. Burger doesn’t get on base at a great clip, but he does hit for power. With so many contending teams focusing on trying to acquire right-handed power, he could be moved in a deal where the Rangers can upgrade a different part of their major-league roster."