The MLB non-waiver trade deadline passed a few weeks ago, but teams can still make trades during the waiver deadline period. That ends on August 31st, and it's lead to a variety of trade rumors from the hot stove. With that in mind, we've compiled five of the bigger names who could be dealt, as well as which team they could end up with.
In order for a player to be dealt to any team, they need to make it through trade waivers. If they make it through, they can be traded to any team. If they're claimed, the team can pull them off waivers, work out a trade or just let them go. After the player in question clear waivers, the trade works just like any other pre-deadline deal would. With that out of the way, let's get to the MLB players who could be dealt.
C Brian McCann, Yankees
Of all the players on this list, McCann might be the most likely. He's already cleared waivers and the Yankees nearly moved him before the deadline. The major problem with McCann is that he's due $17 million each of the next two years and has a $15 million vesting option. That contract has already allowed him to clear waivers. Gary Sanchez has already taken over as the Yankees' primary catcher, with McCann shifting to DH. If the Yankees eat a large chunk of McCann's salary, they'll be able to move him.
Potential Landing Spot: Braves
The Yankees and Braves had discussions before the non-waiver trade deadline, but couldn't agree to a deal. If the Yankees move McCann, Atlanta makes the most sense. He's from the Atlanta-area, and spent his entire MLB career for the Braves before heading to the Yankees before the 2014 season. The Braves could use his veteran presence behind the plate and he'd be returning home.
OF Yasiel Puig, Dodgers
Puig's stock has plummeted lately, and he's currently stuck in Triple-A. While Puig is tearing it up in the minors, he might not be back up anytime soon. Puig, because of his recent issues, likely will make it through waivers. While the Dodgers won't just give him away, they could like to cut ties with him completely.
Potential Landing Spot: Marlins
The Marlins, at 62-59, are still in the NL Wild Card race. But with Giancarlo Stanton out for the year, the team badly needs a right handed, power-hitting bat. That's what Puig would provide. However, Don Mattingly and Puig don't exactly get along. This is a long-shot, but it sure would be interesting.
SP Edinson Volquez, Royals
It was a bit of a surprise that the Royals didn't move Volquez (or anyone for that matter) before the trade deadline. He's set to be a free agent after this season and the Royals would need an incredible rest of the year to make the postseason. With teams still hurting for starting pitching, Volquez could be a trade option.
Potential Landing Spot: Rangers
The Rangers have always liked Volquez. After all, they developed him before trading him away for Josh Hamilton. Perhaps now it's time for Volquez to re-join the team. The Rangers made several trade deadline moves, but couldn't find a way to land a starter. Volquez's 4.95 ERA is not great, but he's had a few rough outings. With the Rangers battling injuries, getting Volquez makes sense.
OF Jon Jay, Padres
A broken forearm ruined Jay's trade value and he could have easily been moved by the deadline if he was healthy. He's still rehabbing, but could return in early September, or perhaps before that. There's obvious risk in dealing for Jay, but he was hitting near .300 and putting together one of his better seasons. A pending free agent, the Padres could try to get something before he leaves.
Potential Landing Spot: Red Sox
The Boston Globe's own Nick Cafardo says Jay could be a fit if the Red Sox elect to send Andrew Benintendi back down to the minors. Jay might be more ready to contribute in the postseason, assuming he gets healthy. He should be cheap, if the Padres are willing to move him for what he's currently worth.
SP Ervin Santana, Twins
Santana has not yet been placed on trade waivers, but with a $13.5 million salary through 2018, he'll likely pass through. His 3.43 ERA makes him one of the pitchers who could be dealt. However, the Twins have a high asking price, which is why he wasn't moved before August 1st.
Potential Landing Spot: Blue Jays
The Blue Jays had interest in Santana before the deadline and that likely hasn't changed. Although the team landed Francisco Liriano in another trade, he's not an ideal option. Adding Santana would allow the Blue Jays to bail on the six-man rotation and put Santana as the starter. But, the Twins' high asking price and the Blue Jays pitching depth makes this unlikely.