What happened: ESPN's Jeff Passan reported that the Pittsburgh Pirates could leverage right-handed pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski as a trade chip ahead of the August 3 deadline. The suggestion comes as the Pirates' rotation depth, headlined by Paul Skenes and Jared Jones, has pushed the former first-round pick into an uncertain relief role.
Why it matters: Currently tied for third in the NL Central at 34-32, the Pirates are searching for offensive consistency from the catcher position and stability in a bullpen that has suffered 14 blown saves this season. Trading from their surplus of young pitching talent could allow the front office to secure a veteran 'bridge' catcher or high-leverage reliever to sustain their Wild Card push.
By the numbers: Carmen Mlodzinski maintains team control through 2029, making him a valuable asset for teams seeking rotation depth. Meanwhile, Pirates catchers Henry Davis and Joey Bart have combined for a sub-.200 average, ranking among the least productive offensive units at the position in MLB for the 2026 season.
What to watch: Watch for the Pirates to potentially target Minnesota's Ryan Jeffers or veteran bullpen help as they navigate a tight race in the National League standings.