Thin-class MLB trade market predictions: where biggest stars De La Cruz, Acuña, Miller, Henderson, Devers could land
A potentially busy winter
The article anticipates an unusually active MLB offseason. It points to a limited group of free agents beyond Tarik Skubal, especially among impact hitters outside the corner-outfield positions.
Financial uncertainty tied to a looming lockout and a potential salary cap could also make teams hesitant to spend freely in free agency. Those conditions may increase interest in trading for established players.
Reds may keep De La Cruz
Cincinnati could listen to offers for Elly De La Cruz after a disappointing 2026 season and amid needs across the lineup. The article also says extension discussions appear to have broken down, while ownership has shown little appetite for spending.
Still, De La Cruz has three years left before free agency, giving the Reds time to wait for an offer that meets their demands. The article doubts a team will make the exceptionally large offer needed to complete a deal.
High hurdles for other stars
Atlanta might consider trading Ronald Acuña Jr. for a substantial return, but his recent injury troubles could depress his value. The Braves are unlikely to sell unless other teams value him as a former MVP, the article argues.
The Padres have little reason to move reliever Mason Miller unless a team meets a very high price; he has three years before free agency. Baltimore faces a similar valuation problem with Gunnar Henderson, who has two years of team control left and struggled at the plate this past season.
Devers deal remains difficult
Rafael Devers recovered from a difficult start to his 2026 season and hit successfully, but San Francisco gained little from the year. The Giants would like to reduce future payroll, while his contract remains a financial burden.
Those factors do not necessarily make a trade likely. The article’s discussion of Devers ends mid-thought, so it does not provide a complete prediction about whether he will change teams.
Key points
- A thin free-agent class and financial uncertainty could fuel a busy MLB trade winter.
- The Reds may listen on Elly De La Cruz but can wait for a major offer.
- Acuña Jr., Miller and Henderson could stay put if teams do not meet asking prices.
- The article’s Devers discussion is incomplete and gives no final trade prediction.