Before 1986, Major League Baseball’s trade deadline fell on June 15—much earlier in the season than the current deadline, which typically lands on July 31 or August 1. This year’s cutoff is set for July 31. If the earlier date were still in place, it would likely force teams to adjust their trade strategies significantly.
For the New York Mets, however, the plan wouldn’t change much—they’re expected to be buyers either way. But if they were required to make key moves as early as June 15, their list of trade targets would likely already include the following players.
1) Ramon Urias
The Baltimore Orioles are enduring a frustrating season. Following back-to-back strong campaigns—101 wins in 2023 and 91 in 2024—expectations were high for the team to take the next step. Instead, they find themselves trailing by more than a dozen games in the AL East and sitting over five games back in the Wild Card race. As a result, short-term assets like Ramón Urías are now likely trade candidates.
Ramón Urías has been a reliable presence in the Orioles’ lineup since debuting in 2020, offering a steady blend of solid hitting and dependable defense across multiple infield spots. While he’s never produced at a Silver Slugger level, his offensive performance has generally ranged from average to slightly above average. The 2025 season has followed that trend—he’s currently slashing .274/.330/.369 with a .308 wOBA and a 99 wRC+, indicating he’s just about league average at the plate.
Urías is drawing walks at an 8.9% clip through 179 plate appearances—his second-highest rate in any season—which reflects a disciplined approach at the plate. He’s also keeping his strikeouts in check, with a strikeout rate of just 19%, staying under the 20% mark. However, his power numbers have taken a noticeable dip in 2025. For the first time in his career, he’s posting an isolated slugging percentage (ISO) below .100. That’s a stark contrast to previous seasons like 2022 and 2024, when he showcased more pop by hitting double-digit home runs and finishing with an ISO north of .160 in both years.
This season, Urías has primarily played third base, where he’s been a defensive asset, recording +4 Defensive Runs Saved and +1 Out Above Average. While the hot corner is clearly his strongest position, he brings valuable versatility to the infield. He’s a solid, league-average defender at second base and is capable of stepping in at both first base and shortstop when needed, making him a flexible option for teams seeking depth across the infield.
Second and third base are clear areas of need for the Mets. Their third basemen have combined for just a .684 OPS, .301 wOBA, 94 wRC+, and +0.7 fWAR, while their second basemen have been even less productive, managing only a .615 OPS, .272 wOBA, and 75 wRC+—though they’ve also contributed +0.7 fWAR. Adding Ramón Urías would provide the Mets with a reliable, league-average bat and a steady glove at both spots. His defensive versatility and ability to cover two of the Mets’ weakest positions make him an appealing target. Plus, with team control through 2026, Urías could also serve as a valuable infield option beyond just this season.
