BREAKING:8 key players on ...

8 key players on Deadline sellers

Every year after the MLB Trade Deadline, the spotlight tends to shine on the aggressive buyers and the significant players they acquire. This is understandable since new additions can drastically change a team’s playoff prospects and highlight individual performances.

Conversely, some teams acknowledge their diminished playoff chances and choose to exchange short-term assets for long-term benefits.

These selling teams often attract attention for the new players and prospects acquired rather than the ones who remain. However, the players who stay can be pivotal for their team’s future success.

Here are eight key players on these selling teams to monitor for the rest of the season.

All statistics are current through Monday’s games.

Alejandro Kirk, C, Blue Jays

The Blue Jays have underperformed this year, leading them to sell at the Deadline. Kirk, despite a standout 2022 season, has seen a concerning decline.

In 2022, he posted a 127 OPS+ and made his first All-Star Game.

However, this dropped to a 93 OPS+ and 2.3 Wins Above Replacement (FanGraphs) in 2023. This year, his performance has further declined to a 78 OPS+ with 1.2 fWAR in 61 games. While Bo Bichette and Kevin Gausman might be the more notable underperformers, Kirk’s return to his 2022 form would significantly benefit the Blue Jays next season, especially following Danny Jansen’s departure.

Luis Robert Jr., CF, White Sox

The White Sox are enduring a tough season, on track for just 39 wins.

Robert, though not the cause, has failed to replicate his 2023 form, where he finished 12th in AL MVP voting with 38 home runs, 20 stolen bases, and a 130 OPS+. After missing two months from early April to June, Robert hasn’t reached his previous level, posting a 95 OPS+ and 0.8 fWAR in 59 games.

Though he was a hot topic in trade rumors, the White Sox retained him. His performance in the remainder of the season could heavily influence his trade value in the offseason.

James Wood, CF, Nationals

The Nationals are showing signs of a potential competitive surge in the coming years.

Wood, one of their key future pieces, has impressed since debuting on July 1.

In 30 games, he has a 110 OPS+ with two home runs and three stolen bases. Ranked as MLB Pipeline’s No. 2 overall prospect, Wood excelled in the Minors with a blend of power and speed while playing solid defense as a 6-foot-7 outfielder. Although he needs to address his high strikeout rate (33.9%), his potential to become a superstar is evident.

Brady Singer, RHP, Royals

Singer, despite his inconsistent performances, remains a crucial part of the Royals’ rotation. His 2023 season showcased his potential with a 3.23 ERA and 1.14 WHIP over 153.1 innings.

This year, he has struggled, posting a 5.44 ERA and 1.51 WHIP. His ability to regain his 2023 form could be vital for the Royals, who are looking to rebuild their pitching staff around him.

Joey Wiemer, OF, Brewers

Wiemer, a promising outfielder for the Brewers, has had a challenging season with a .211/.300/.362 slash line and a 91 OPS+ in 96 games. Despite his struggles, his defensive prowess and speed (17 stolen bases) make him a valuable asset. If he can improve his offensive consistency, Wiemer could be a key contributor to the Brewers’ future success.

Jasson Dominguez, OF, Yankees

Dominguez, one of the Yankees’ top prospects, has shown flashes of brilliance since his call-up. In 25 games, he has posted a .263/.333/.421 slash line with a 110 OPS+.

Known for his power and speed, Dominguez’s development will be crucial for the Yankees as they transition to a younger core.

Max Meyer, RHP, Marlins

Meyer, a highly-touted pitching prospect for the Marlins, has faced challenges in his rookie season, with a 4.75 ERA and 1.33 WHIP over 36 innings. However, his impressive strikeout rate (11.5 K/9) highlights his potential. As he gains more experience, Meyer could become a cornerstone of the Marlins’ rotation.

Orelvis Martinez, SS, Blue Jays

Martinez, another promising player for the Blue Jays, has had a solid season in the Minors with a .256/.341/.519 slash line and 25 home runs. His defensive versatility and power make him an exciting prospect for the Blue Jays’ future.

If he continues to develop, Martinez could be a significant addition to their roster.

These players, though overlooked post-Deadline, hold the potential to be pivotal for their teams’ futures. Monitoring their progress could provide insight into the rebuilding strategies and future successes of their respective clubs.