MLB trade deadline 2026 puts Cubs and Yankees under pressure
ESPN says the Cubs need pitching, the Yankees want bullpen help and contenders across MLB have holes to fill before Monday's deadline.
By Georgia Hale · Staff Writer
4 min read
The MLB trade deadline 2026 is turning into a scramble for arms, bats and emergency fixes, with ESPN’s Buster Olney identifying 12 contenders under pressure to act before Monday’s 6 p.m. ET cutoff.
Olney framed this year’s market around the 2025 Toronto Blue Jays, who surged late and came within one run and two outs of beating the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series. That memory, ESPN reported, is fueling hope for clubs that believe one sharp move could change October.
What do MLB trade deadline 2026 contenders need?
The Cubs sit at the top of ESPN’s urgency list because their rotation has been hit hard. Cade Horton lasted 7⅓ innings before season-ending elbow surgery, Justin Steele had an early setback, Edward Cabrera is working back from a major leg injury and Jameson Taillon was designated for assignment.
ESPN reported Chicago’s need is broad: starting pitching and more pitching. Names listed as possible fits include Freddy Peralta, Clay Holmes, Robbie Ray, Kevin Gausman, Reid Detmers, Tarik Skubal and Casey Mize, depending on which clubs decide to sell.
The White Sox, two seasons removed from 121 losses, are described by ESPN as a possible American League threat, but they have two clear gaps. Catcher Kyle Teel’s significant ankle injury created a need behind the plate, while fifth starter Noah Schultz has an ERA over 6.00.
The Yankees’ injuries to Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton and Cody Bellinger have weakened the lineup, but ESPN reported their top target appears to be a power reliever. Mason Miller and Adrian Morejon were named as ideal options, though ESPN noted it is unclear whether San Diego would move Morejon.
New York also could seek a right-handed bat. ESPN said the Yankees have been connected to Minnesota catcher Ryan Jeffers and could look at a position-player upgrade such as Mets outfielder Tyrone Taylor.
Which contenders are chasing pitching?
The Braves are among the teams waiting to see whether the Tigers move Skubal or Mize, according to ESPN. Atlanta’s farm system is described as strong enough to make a Skubal push, with 23-year-old JR Ritchie mentioned as a possible centerpiece.
The Rays, called the AL’s best team by ESPN, also have a rotation question despite strong performance. Shane McClanahan is at 96 innings after missing the previous two years, and Drew Rasmussen’s injury history makes another starter a logical target.
The Phillies have a stark split, according to ESPN: 43-16 when Cristopher Sanchez, Zack Wheeler or Jesus Luzardo start, and 14-34 in all other games. ESPN reported Philadelphia is expected to add a veteran starter and, after Brad Keller’s injury, likely a reliever as well.
Milwaukee’s need is another rotation arm. ESPN noted that Jacob Misiorowski has emerged as baseball’s best starting pitcher, but Kyle Harrison’s injury leaves the Brewers looking for help now and for the postseason.
Who needs bats or bullpen help?
Seattle’s problem is offense against left-handed pitching. ESPN reported the Mariners rank 28th in MLB in OPS versus lefties after finishing 12th in that category last year, making a right-handed hitter their clearest need if they add.
Pittsburgh’s bullpen ranks 24th in ERA, according to ESPN, and rival officials view the Pirates as a team to watch. One rival executive told ESPN the club is expected to be aggressive before the deadline.
Texas, protecting its AL West position, needs relief depth but rival officials told ESPN the Rangers are not in position to take on money. Cleveland, meanwhile, has broadened its search from a right-handed hitter to any offensive upgrade, with Kansas City’s Lane Thomas mentioned as a possible match.
Boston already added Curtis Mead to address its need for a right-handed hitting infielder, but ESPN reported rival executives say the Red Sox are still searching for a shortstop. Zach Neto, C.J. Abrams and Miami’s Otto Lopez, who ESPN said leads all hitters with a .328 average, were listed among the names tied to speculation or inquiries.
This story draws on original reporting from ESPN.com.