As the 2026 MLB offseason approaches, several National League East stars find themselves at the center of trade speculation. From veteran sluggers to young aces, the division's top talent could be on the move if front offices decide to reshape their rosters. Here is a breakdown of the most prominent trade candidates and their potential landing spots.
Bryce Harper, Philadelphia Phillies
Harper, 34, is under contract through 2032 with $125.5 million owed over the final five seasons. He would reportedly waive his no-trade clause only if the acquiring team extends his deal beyond its current expiration, when he will be 39. Despite his age, Harper remains one of baseball's most consistent hitters, posting 20-plus home runs in 10 of the last 12 seasons and batting .260 or better in eight straight years. However, his defense at first base has declined sharply, dropping from +8 Outs Above Average in 2024 to -5 OAA in 2026. A trade appears unlikely, but the Milwaukee Brewers, Arizona Diamondbacks, and New York Mets are mentioned as potential suitors.
Ronald Acuña Jr., Atlanta Braves
The 2023 NL MVP (41 home runs, 73 stolen bases) has been limited to 251 games over the past three seasons due to injuries. Atlanta exercised a $17 million club option for 2027, and Acuña holds another $17 million option for 2028 before reaching free agency in 2029. His affordable salary makes him highly desirable, but clubhouse friction and his public desire to leave Atlanta could prompt a deal. The Chicago Cubs, New York Mets, and San Diego Padres are listed as possible destinations.
Sandy Alcantara, Miami Marlins
After winning the 2022 NL Cy Young unanimously with a 2.28 ERA over 228 2/3 innings, Alcantara regressed to a 4.14 ERA in 2023 while pitching through arm pain that eventually required Tommy John surgery. He returned in 2025 with a 5.36 ERA but rebounded in 2026, posting a 3.87 ERA across 214 innings. The Marlins exercised his $21 million club option for 2027 on Friday; he becomes a free agent in 2028. Miami has a history of trading short-term assets for farm depth, though they appear reluctant to move their ace. The Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago Cubs, and San Diego Padres are potential landing spots.
CJ Abrams, Washington Nationals
Abrams, 26, is controlled through 2029 and coming off a career year: 33 home runs, 106 RBIs, 57 walks, a .261/.336/.497 slash line, and an .833 OPS. He became only the second player in Nationals history to record a 30-homer, 30-steal season, joining Alfonso Soriano (2006). Washington would demand a massive return, but several teams are desperate for shortstop help. The Atlanta Braves, Seattle Mariners, and New York Yankees are among the clubs that could overpay for his services.
Sean Manaea, New York Mets
Following a disastrous 40-57 start to the 2026 season, the Mets held a fire sale, leaving few trade candidates. Manaea, however, remains an intriguing option for teams seeking reliable starting pitching. The left-hander split 2026 between the rotation and a bulk-relief role (33 games, 19 starts), posting a 4.78 ERA and 1.30 WHIP over 150 2/3 innings. He missed most of 2025 with two major injuries but showed promise in 2024 with a 3.47 ERA across 81 2/3 innings. Manaea is set for free agency in 2028, making him a potential rental target for the Athletics, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Chicago White Sox.
