Padres and Astros Make Big Moves as Twins Shakeup and Dodgers Stay Quiet

Winners from the 2025 MLB Trade Deadline

Carlos Correa, Astros Third Baseman

Carlos Correa’s return to the Houston Astros was one of the most anticipated moves of the deadline. A former first-round pick by the Astros in 2012, Correa played for the team from 2015 to 2021 before signing with the Minnesota Twins. Despite his departure, he remains a beloved figure in Houston. The Astros were thrilled to bring him back, and Correa confirmed that Houston was the only team for which he would waive his no-trade clause. His move to third base marks a new chapter in his career, as he will play a position other than shortstop for the first time in his professional journey. This trade was made possible due to a hamstring injury to Isaac Paredes, opening up the third-base spot. While the Twins had to eat $30 million of his remaining $102 million contract, Correa's return to a franchise he feels comfortable with is rare and valuable.

Mason Miller, Padres Closer

Mason Miller, known for his powerful fastball, made a dramatic shift from the Oakland Athletics to the San Diego Padres. After being traded, Miller moved from playing in a minor-league stadium to a major-league one, marking a significant upgrade. The Padres paid a steep price, giving up MLB Pipeline No. 3 overall prospect Leo De Vries and three other young players for Miller and starting pitcher J.P. Sears. This trade highlights the value of Miller, who has four years of team control left after this season. His presence in the Padres' bullpen could be crucial during the playoffs, especially with three other All-Star relievers already on the roster.

Jerry Dipoto, Mariners President

Jerry Dipoto, the Seattle Mariners' president of baseball operations, made several impactful trades at the deadline. With the Mariners tied for the final AL wild-card spot, Dipoto brought in first baseman Josh Naylor and third baseman Eugenio Suarez. Suarez, who ranks fifth in MLB in homers this season with 36, was a key addition. These moves are expected to significantly improve the Mariners’ lineup, providing much-needed depth and power. The team now looks more competitive, especially if their rotation remains healthy.

The Mets' Bullpen

The New York Mets bolstered their bullpen with the additions of Ryan Helsley, Tyler Rogers, and Gregory Soto. Alongside All-Star closer Edwin Diaz, these acquisitions create a formidable relief corps. The Mets didn’t need a complete overhaul but still managed to strengthen their defense against the Phillies in the NL East race. Their strategic moves ensure that their bullpen won’t be a weakness in the upcoming season.

Craig Breslow's Critics

Despite criticism following the Rafael Devers situation, Craig Breslow, the Boston Red Sox’s chief baseball officer, made efforts to improve the team. The Red Sox acquired Dustin May and Steven Matz, aiming to solidify their roster. While not as aggressive as some might have hoped, these moves show Breslow’s commitment to making necessary improvements.

Losers from the 2025 MLB Trade Deadline

The Twins' Remaining Players

The Minnesota Twins made a significant number of trades, parting with 10 players, including Carlos Correa, Willi Castro, Jhoan Duran, and others. This move, while financially beneficial, left the team with a weakened roster. Fans are concerned about the future of the franchise, as the Twins lost a substantial amount of talent. The team is reportedly $440 million in debt, and while the Correa trade saved $70 million, the loss of key players raises questions about their competitiveness moving forward.

The L.A. Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers made minimal changes at the deadline, acquiring Brock Stewart and Alex Call. While these additions are positive, they don’t match the aggressive moves of other teams like the Mets and Padres. The Dodgers remain a strong team on paper, but injuries and a struggling bullpen have hindered their performance. They now face increased competition from the Padres, who are just three games behind them.

Luis Robert Jr., White Sox Outfielder

Luis Robert Jr. continues to be surrounded by trade speculation, despite the Chicago White Sox keeping him. He has two $20 million team options remaining on his contract and is considered a reclamation project due to his struggles since his All-Star season in 2023. His continued presence on a struggling team raises questions about the White Sox’s strategy.

Ben Cherington, Pirates GM

The Pittsburgh Pirates made several trades, including sending closer David Bednar to the Yankees and third baseman Ke'Bryan Hayes to the Reds. However, they retained several free agents, including Mitch Keller, who received significant trade interest. This decision has raised concerns about the Pirates’ approach under Cherington, as they failed to capitalize on potential opportunities.

The Padres' Farm System

The San Diego Padres made a bold move by trading away 13 prospects for Mason Miller, Ryan O'Hearn, Ramon Laureano, Will Wagner, and Nestor Cortes Jr. While Miller is an elite talent, the Padres lost several high-ceiling prospects in the process. This trade could impact their farm system rankings, raising concerns about the long-term implications of such a move.