Stock Watch: Judging 2025 MLB Trade Deadline, a Month later
A month removed from the trade deadline, the trajectories of several teams and players are coming into sharper focus, revealing potential storylines for the 2025 deadline. While some franchises hoped for a post-deadline surge,others are grappling with continued struggles,impacting individual player evaluations and future organizational direction. The Chicago White Sox and Colorado Rockies, in particular, offer contrasting case studies in deadline aftermath.
The evaluation period following the trade deadline is critical for front offices assessing both current performance and long-term potential. For rebuilding teams,it’s a chance to gauge the progress of newly acquired prospects.For contenders, it’s a test of whether deadline additions can solidify a playoff push.the current situations of the White Sox and Rockies highlight the complexities of this assessment, with implications for roster construction and trade strategy heading into the offseason and, ultimately, the 2025 deadline.
The White Sox, despite a promising period leading up to the deadline, have experienced a downturn in performance. Players like Brady House have struggled since the All-Star break, contributing to an overall offensive slump compounded by pitching woes, particularly within the starting rotation. However, despite the recent struggles, there are positive developments. Kyle Teel has emerged as a well-rounded offensive force,and Colson Montgomery has showcased explosive power.A significant concern is a potential season-ending injury to Luis Robert Jr., whose combined slash line over the past two seasons stands at .223/.288/.372.
Currently, the White Sox’s win average is 59.6 (down from 62.1), with a 0.0% chance of reaching the playoffs or winning a championship, according to ESPN’s projections.
The Colorado Rockies, simultaneously occurring, continue to face significant challenges.August saw their rotation post a 6.54 ERA and allow a.309/.381/.514 slash line – even on the road. Despite the ongoing losses, a bright spot has been Hunter Goodman, whose 2.7 bWAR places him third in Rockies history among primary catchers, trailing only Chris Iannetta’s 3.2 in 2008.
colorado’s win average currently sits at 45.9 (up from 44.3), with a 0.0% chance of postseason contention or a championship, per ESPN’s data. The Rockies’ focus now centers on individual achievements like Goodman’s pursuit of a franchise record amidst a tough season.
