Fantasy Baseball Trade Analyzer: Must-Add Players for Every Stat Category Ahead of the Deadline

As we head into the late July trade window, fantasy baseball strategy shifts. While early-season trades are all about maximizing long-term value — even at the cost of roster imbalance — this is the time to plug category gaps and zero in on statistical needs.

Below, we spotlight key players to target in trades who can help across the major fantasy baseball stat categories: batting average, home runs, RBIs, runs, and stolen bases. Each is primed to deliver value in their standout area — and in many cases, they’re surprisingly affordable.

Batting Average Targets

Bo Bichette, SS, Blue Jays

Bichette may not be generating buzz, but he’s sneaky-valuable. Despite ranking 32nd in MLB in batting average, he sits second in expected batting average (xBA). His strikeout rate has dipped to 16.3%, and his line-drive rate is a stellar 23%. With a current .281 average — which feels like his floor — plus 12 homers and 4 steals, Bichette’s underwhelming power numbers keep his trade value modest. He’s a great buy for average help without overpaying.

Bonus Mention: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. leads the league in xBA, but Bichette is far easier to acquire.

Home Run Power Plays

Cal Raleigh, C, Mariners

Yes, it’s obvious — Raleigh leads MLB in home runs. But what makes him truly valuable is where he plays. He’s hit 21 more home runs than any other catcher, offering an unmatched positional edge. If you’re lacking in the power department, consider trading a star player for Raleigh and replacing your other position through waivers. The power upside from your catcher slot is worth it.

Willson Contreras, C, Cardinals

Looking for a cheaper alternative? Contreras is a discounted version of Raleigh. His expected home runs exceed his actual total by 3.7 — one of the biggest gaps in the league. He’s solid now and could be a sleeper pick for a second-half power surge. Low cost, high upside.

RBI Machines

Geraldo Perdomo, SS, Diamondbacks

Perdomo is a quiet RBI asset, currently sitting 10th in the league in that category. Hitting in the 2- or 3-hole of an offense that ranks fourth in runs scored — and often right behind Corbin Carroll — means plenty of RBI opportunities. His moderate power (10 HR) and speed (15 SB) keep the price reasonable. Ideal for managers looking to pad their RBI column without breaking the bank.

Run-Scoring Assets

Zach Neto, SS, Angels

Despite missing time early, Neto has emerged as a fantasy asset hiding in plain sight. Since debuting on April 18, he’s climbed to 13th in runs scored. With contributions in homers, steals, and average — and batting leadoff in a competent Angels lineup — Neto is a low-risk, high-reward trade piece for run-starved teams.

TJ Friedl, OF, Reds

Think of Friedl as Neto-lite — and likely cheaper. He leads off for the Reds and is on pace for 85–90 runs. While he won’t wow in other categories, he’s a cost-effective way to gain ground in runs scored. Great for managers in tight category races.

Stolen Base Specialists

Zach McKinstry, 3B/SS/OF, Tigers

Need steals fast without emptying your roster? McKinstry is your man. He’s racked up the second-most stolen bases in MLB since June 1 (13 swipes) and ranks 24th overall. Add in his multi-position eligibility and solid recent batting performance, and you have a versatile speedster who fits easily into almost any lineup.

Xavier Edwards, 2B/SS, Marlins

Edwards has disappointed this season, ranking just 19th in steals — a letdown after leading projections to top the category. But the speed is still there, and his second-half surge in 2024 (28 steals) shows what he’s capable of. He’s the perfect buy-low option for managers with limited trade capital but big steals needs.

Final Takeaway

At this stage of the fantasy season, it’s all about targeted value. Whether you’re aiming to climb the standings in a specific stat or trying to lock down a category in head-to-head formats, these players offer efficient, strategic paths to success — without sacrificing your roster’s future.

Make the move now, while the price is right. The trade deadline doesn’t wait.