MLB 2026 Trade Deadline Predictions Target Phillies and Red Sox

Analyst Matt Gelb said the Philadelphia Phillies, facing a weak farm system, are likely to address three key needs—rotation, bullpen and right‑handed hitting outfield—by acquiring only marginal upgrades at the August 3 trade deadline. He cited possible depth pieces such as Tyler Mahle or Tomoyuki Sugano for the rotation and fringe outfielders, noting that the Phillies may struggle to find top‑tier talent.

Separately, New York Post insider Joel Sherman projected that the Boston Red Sox could target Athletics catcher Shea Langeliers in a deadline blockbuster. Sherman suggested the deal would hinge on the A's willingness to part with their top‑hitting catcher and the Red Sox’s capacity to trade a young starter or other assets, amid injuries to Garrett Crochet and other starters.