As the 2026 MLB offseason approaches, several National League East stars have emerged as potential trade candidates despite their contractual situations. Yahoo Sports outlines bold predictions for five key players who could be on the move.
Bryce Harper, Philadelphia Phillies
Harper, 34, is under contract through 2032 with $125.5 million remaining over five seasons. He has reportedly expressed willingness to waive his no-trade clause if the acquiring team extends his deal, but his age and declining defense — from +8 Outs Above Average in 2024 to -5 OAA in 2026 — make a trade unlikely. Harper has hit 20-plus home runs in 10 of the last 12 seasons and batted .260 or better for eight straight years. Potential landing spots: Milwaukee Brewers, Arizona Diamondbacks, New York Mets.
Ronald Acuña Jr., Atlanta Braves
The 2023 NL MVP (41 home runs, 73 stolen bases) has been limited to 251 games over the past three seasons due to injuries. Atlanta exercised a $17 million club option for 2027, with another option for 2028 before free agency in 2029. Clubhouse issues and Acuña's reported desire to leave could prompt a trade, with the Braves potentially commanding a significant prospect haul. Potential landing spots: Chicago Cubs, New York Mets, San Diego Padres.
Sandy Alcantara, Miami Marlins
After winning the 2022 NL Cy Young unanimously (2.28 ERA, 228 2/3 innings), Alcantara underwent Tommy John surgery and returned in 2025 with a 5.36 ERA. He rebounded in 2026 with a 3.87 ERA over 214 innings, prompting the Marlins to exercise his $21 million club option for 2027. He becomes a free agent in 2028. Miami has a history of trading short-term assets for farm depth but may retain their ace. Potential landing spots: Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres.
CJ Abrams, Washington Nationals
The 26-year-old shortstop posted career highs in 2026: 33 home runs, 106 RBIs, .261/.336/.497 slash line, and an .833 OPS, becoming only the second player in Nationals history with a 30/30 season (joining Alfonso Soriano, 2006). Under team control through 2029, Abrams would require a massive return. Potential landing spots: Atlanta Braves, Seattle Mariners, New York Yankees.
Sean Manaea, New York Mets
Following a 40-57 first half in 2026, the Mets have few trade chips, but Manaea's consistency makes him attractive. The left-hander split 2026 between starting and bulk relief (33 games, 19 starts), posting a 4.78 ERA and 1.30 WHIP over 150 2/3 innings. He missed most of 2025 with injuries but had a 3.47 ERA in 81 2/3 innings in 2024. Manaea is a free agent in 2028. Potential landing spots: Athletics, Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago White Sox.
