As the Major League Baseball trade deadline approaches on Monday at 5 p.m. ET, teams are intensifying discussions while weighing their options as buyers or sellers. One of the most significant storylines remaining centers on Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal, whose potential trade continues to loom amid growing speculation.

Despite widespread expectation among executives that the Tigers will move Skubal before the deadline, the team had not officially confirmed any trade plans as of late Thursday. Skubal, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, remains the most prominent player unconfirmed in trade talks, creating uncertainty among interested teams. Several front offices are eager for official word, not only on Skubal but also on other Tigers pitchers such as starter Casey Mize and relievers Kenley Jansen and Kyle Finnegan, who have drawn attention from potential suitors.

Among other teams engaged in active trade conversations, the Chicago Cubs stand out for their aggressive pursuit of starting pitching. They have reportedly explored options including Skubal, New York Mets reliever Clay Holmes, San Francisco Giants starter Robbie Ray, and Seattle Mariners prospect Emerson Hancock. Hancock, in particular, is viewed as the most coveted young starting pitcher available, with some insiders suggesting the Cubs’ best chance to acquire him could involve including outfielder Seiya Suzuki and infielder Matt Shaw in a package deal.

Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays are expected to be the most assertive buyers at the deadline, given the wide-open nature of the American League this season. Several executives anticipate the Rays will be among the final teams making moves to position themselves for the postseason.

The Boston Red Sox, confronting uncertainty surrounding Trevor Story’s return from the injured list, have shifted their focus toward acquiring a shortstop. They have inquired about several players, including Zach Neto of the Los Angeles Angels, C.J. Abrams of the Washington Nationals, Otto Lopez of the Miami Marlins, and Jeremy Peña of the Houston Astros.

The New York Mets are prepared to trade reliever Clay Holmes, who is not expected to pitch again before the deadline. The Mets are also shopping starter Freddy Peralta and have indicated they do not plan to extend his contract. Notably, shortstop Francisco Lindor remains off-limits in trade discussions at this time.

Interest persists around Giants ace Logan Webb, but multiple teams, including the Astros, have been told he is not available. The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly targeting Angels outfielder Jo Adell but are intrigued by a potential package from the Toronto Blue Jays involving reliever Jeff Hoffman and outfielder Daulton Varsho.

The Cincinnati Reds have made it clear that starter Hunter Greene is no longer available. The San Diego Padres, anticipating approval of new ownership, are signaling that they will have increased financial flexibility at the deadline. The Giants plan to keep outfielder Jung Hoo Lee while indicating a willingness to part with Heliot Ramos and possibly absorb a portion of Robbie Ray’s $25 million contract to facilitate a trade.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have prioritized bolstering their bullpen after removing Paul Sewald from their closer role, although they remain interested in adding a first baseman. The Miami Marlins are open to trading most players except for ace Sandy Alcantara, whose $21 million option they intend to exercise for next season.

Meanwhile, teams remain cautious about pursuing Blue Jays starter Shane Bieber, who struggled in his most recent outing, leaving after just two-thirds of an inning and walking six batters.

With the trade deadline fast approaching, teams continue to evaluate options closely, aiming to balance short-term competitiveness with long-term planning. The coming days are expected to feature a flurry of deals as front offices make final decisions.