Winners and Losers of the 2023 MLB Trade Deadline

The 2023 MLB trade deadline has passed, and although it lacked the blockbuster deals that many expected, there were still significant moves that shaped the baseball league. Let’s take a closer look at the biggest winners and losers of this year’s deadline.

Winners: Texas Rangers

The Rangers made impressive moves to bolster their pitching staff, a crucial area for their quest to stay ahead of the Astros. Acquiring Aroldis Chapman, Jordan Montgomery, Chris Stratton, and even Max Scherzer addressed one of their remaining major needs without depleting their farm system. The Rangers seem determined to compete fiercely in the AL West, fueling both their fanbase and clubhouse with a vote of confidence from their front office.

Losers: New York Yankees

In contrast, the Yankees failed to address their struggling offense, which boasted below average statistics in terms of team wRC+ and wOBA. With only minor additions to their bullpen and depth pieces, the Yankees adopted a passive approach at a crucial crossroads. Currently sitting in last place in the competitive AL East, the team is heavily reliant on their offense heating up if they are to make a push for the postseason.

Winners: Houston Astros

Just like their Texas rivals, the Astros recognized the need to strengthen their pitching staff. Reuniting with Kendall Graveman and Justin Verlander showcased their determination to vie with the Rangers for the AL West crown. While their moves might not have fully countered Texas’ acquisitions, the Astros boast a formidable pitching corps that could carry them to success in October. The team’s eye remains on reclaiming the World Series title, and their recent deals reflect their aspirations.

Losers: San Francisco Giants and Cincinnati Reds

Both the Giants and Reds missed out on significant moves while their rivals in the standings made noteworthy acquisitions. San Francisco is close behind the LA Dodgers in the NL West, while the Reds hold a tentative lead in their division. However, the Giants and Reds watched as their competitors bolstered their rosters, leaving them potentially regretting their inactivity at the deadline if they fail to secure postseason berths.

Winners: Chicago Cubs

The Cubs, though potentially sellers at the deadline, found themselves as buyers thanks to their promising performance. Their acquisitions of Jeimer Candelario and Jose Cuas demonstrated their commitment to challenging the Brewers and Reds in the NL Central. With recent players’ form and valuable additions, the Cubs possess the potential to make a solid run at the divisional crown.

Somehow both: New York Mets

The Mets reluctantly became sellers after a disappointing season, trading notable names such as Max Scherzer, Justin Verlander, Mark Canha, and Tommy Pham to revitalize their farm system. While commendable, it’s disheartening to see a team with lofty World Series aspirations in the offseason completely changing course. The Mets’ maneuvering indicates a focus on future seasons, potentially overlooking the playoffs for several years while investing millions for prospects.

The winners and losers of the 2023 MLB trade deadline reflect the significant impact that the deadline can have on a team’s prospects for success. The Rangers, Astros, and Cubs emerged as winners, making strategic moves to fortify their rosters and maintain a competitive edge. Meanwhile, the Yankees, Giants, and Reds missed opportunities to strengthen their teams, potentially impacting their playoff aspirations. And the Mets, while successful in refueling their farm system, witnessed their championship dreams fade in favor of future prospects.