They have been protective of Andrew Painter, Aidan Miller, and Justin Crawford. But as the trade deadline approaches, it looks like the price for a top reliever will be high.

The 2025 MLB trade deadline is Thursday at 6 p.m. ET. If last year is anything to judge by, Wednesday and Thursday are going to be chaotic, with several teams making last-minute decisions on whether to be buyers, sellers or some hybrid combination of the two.

After tossing seven strong innings in his last start, Sandy Alcantara's name is back atop deadline wish lists, with USA TODAY Sports' Bob Nightengale reporting that trade interest has soared. The 2022 NL Cy Young winner has struggled this season after missing all of 2024 following Tommy John surgery.

The Boston Red Sox have until Thursday, July 31 at 6 p.m. to bolster their bullpen to make a push for the playoffs.

To set the stage for the sprint to the deadline, here's a primer based on what I'm hearing from front office executives across the league.

The Twins dealt Chris Paddack but are still open to trading relievers and centerfielder Harrison Bader ahead of the trade deadline.

Major League Baseball's trade deadline will pass at 6 p.m. ET on July 31, leaving teams with just over two days to complete their summer shopping. Some clubs have already been active swappers: the Yankees have obtained two infielders (Ryan McMahon and Amed Rosario),

After losing star slugger Aaron Judge to the injured list with a flexor strain in his elbow, the New York Yankees are facing a tough decision on whether to buy or sell at Thursday's trade deadline.