It’s becoming increasingly clear that the Tampa Bay Rays and Baltimore Orioles are slipping out of playoff contention in the American League. Both teams have struggled significantly in 2025, with Baltimore holding the second-worst record in the AL, just ahead of the White Sox.
Because of their disappointing seasons and slim postseason hopes, Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter has identified the Rays and Orioles as probable sellers at the upcoming trade deadline. Among the top names expected to be moved are Tampa Bay reliever Pete Fairbanks and Baltimore center fielder Cedric Mullins—two longtime members of their respective clubs.
Fairbanks, who’s under team control through next season, is a strong candidate for contenders seeking bullpen help. This year, he’s been effective, posting a 2.65 ERA over 17 innings in 18 appearances. Reuter notes that Fairbanks, with 56 saves and a 3.01 ERA since 2023, is Tampa Bay’s most valuable trade asset. His $3.8 million salary and $7 million club option for 2026 make him financially attractive for many teams.
Mullins, meanwhile, offers solid defense and dependable offensive output. Despite a recent slump, he’s produced a .781 OPS, 8 home runs, and 25 RBIs in 139 at-bats this season. A free agent after this year, Mullins is drawing trade interest due to his consistent value—he’s posted 2.0+ WAR in four straight seasons and plays strong center field defense. With a 124 OPS+ and contributions on both sides of the ball, he’s expected to be a sought-after target.
As the deadline approaches, both Fairbanks and Mullins are shaping up to be two of the most appealing trade chips in the AL East.
