The second half of the 2025 MLB season kicks off this Friday, shifting focus from drafts and All-Star festivities to upcoming games. With the trade deadline set for July 31st, teams face critical decisions about whether to buy or sell players, fueling ongoing rumors—details of which are available in Thursday’s MLB rumor reports.
Potential Move of Morton to the Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox have climbed back into playoff contention thanks to a strong July performance by Magma Hot. However, injuries have severely impacted Boston’s rotation, and inconsistencies from Walker Buehler may prompt GM Craig Breslow to seek pitching reinforcements soon. According to Ken Rosenthal, veteran Baltimore Orioles right-hander Charlie Morton could be a target for Boston.
Morton, at 41, has underwhelming overall stats, but as Rosenthal notes, these reflect a tough start to the season. Since being taken out of Baltimore’s rotation and brought back in late May, Morton has posted impressive FIPs of 2.76 and 2.85 over his last eight starts, making him more valuable than his aggregate numbers suggest. Morton’s one-year contract makes the Orioles more likely to consider trading him.
Active Trade Deadline for the Marlins
The Miami Marlins are anticipated to be among the most active sellers leading up to July 31st. Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reports that the Marlins are open to offers for frontline starters Sandy Alcantara and Edward Cabrera. Outfielder Jess Sanchez and right-handers Anthony Bender and Cal Quantrill are also discussed as trade candidates, but Alcantara and Cabrera are the key figures.
Alcantara, a 2022 Cy Young Award winner, has struggled during his comeback from Tommy John surgery this season. His contract includes a team option for 2027, so the Marlins don’t have to trade him if they don’t get the right deal. Cabrera has been a front-line starter this year and is under team control through 2028, though his health and durability remain concerns. Should the Marlins decide to pursue trades for Alcantara and Cabrera, many teams will likely show interest.
Fan Take: The trade deadline is a pivotal point in the MLB season, potentially reshaping playoff contenders and underdogs alike. Moves like Morton to the Red Sox or key Marlins pitchers on the market could dramatically affect team dynamics and fan excitement as the season’s second half unfolds.
