One Month Later: Evaluating MLB Trade Deadline Moves and Top Additions

As the dust settles from the July 30 MLB trade deadline, it's time to reflect on how the various transactions have played out. With a month of performance to assess, we’re breaking down the best and worst moves made and highlighting the top 10 players who have made the most impact with their new teams.

Top Performers: Who Hit the Mark

1. Jazz Chisholm Jr., Yankees
Jazz Chisholm Jr. has quickly become a game-changer for the Yankees. Acquired on July 27, he has lit up the Bronx with a franchise-record seven homers in his first 12 games. Despite a brief stint on the IL due to an elbow injury, Chisholm’s presence has been a major boost, posting a .370 average and a 1.029 OPS. His contributions have been pivotal in solidifying the Yankees' lineup alongside Juan Soto and Aaron Judge.

2. Paul DeJong, Royals
Paul DeJong’s move to the Royals has paid off significantly. With a .563 slugging percentage and five homers in his first 21 games, DeJong has revitalized Kansas City's third base, a position that had previously been a weak spot. His performance has coincided with the Royals’ improved play, helping them climb within striking distance of the AL Central lead.

3. Yusei Kikuchi, Astros
Yusei Kikuchi has been a revelation for the Astros, who were in dire need of pitching depth. Since joining Houston, Kikuchi has posted a stellar 2.89 ERA and made crucial adjustments to his pitch selection, resulting in a sharp increase in strikeouts. His solid contributions have been a key factor in the Astros’ continued push for the playoffs.

4. Jorge Soler, Braves
Jorge Soler has stepped up in a major way for the Braves, who have been dealing with significant injuries. Slugging five homers and posting an .820 OPS, Soler has been instrumental in filling the void left by Ronald Acuña Jr. and Austin Riley’s absences. His performance has helped Atlanta maintain a strong position in the NL Wild Card race.

5. Zach Eflin, Orioles
Zach Eflin was a significant acquisition for the Orioles, offering much-needed stability to their rotation. Before a shoulder injury put him on the IL, Eflin delivered a 2.13 ERA with impressive strikeout numbers. His return from injury is eagerly anticipated as he has proven to be a critical asset to Baltimore’s pitching staff.

6. Jack Flaherty, Dodgers
Jack Flaherty’s return to Southern California has been a success. With a 3.49 ERA and solid strikeout rates, Flaherty has bolstered the Dodgers’ rotation. His performance has been consistent, and he’s provided a much-needed boost as the Dodgers gear up for a postseason run.

7. Michael Kopech, Dodgers
Michael Kopech has excelled in his role with the Dodgers, particularly in high-leverage situations. His dominance out of the bullpen includes 19 strikeouts and just one run allowed in 13 1/3 innings. Kopech’s improved control and strikeout ability have made him a key component of the Dodgers’ relief corps.

8. Josh Bell, D-backs
Josh Bell has been a valuable addition to the Diamondbacks, especially with the injury to Christian Walker. Bell’s early success included a .300 average and eight extra-base hits, providing much-needed offensive support. Although his production has cooled recently, Bell’s impact was felt strongly when he first joined the team.

9. Frankie Montas, Brewers
Frankie Montas has delivered impressive results since joining the Brewers, with a 3.35 ERA and increased velocity. His ability to limit barrels and generate strikeouts has made him a reliable starter for Milwaukee. Montas’s performance has been a positive development for a team that needed to shore up its rotation.

10. Martín Pérez, Padres
Martín Pérez has been a steady presence in the Padres’ rotation. With a 2.70 ERA and a strong showing with his curveball, Pérez has been effective in stabilizing the pitching staff. His contribution has been significant as the Padres continue their push for the playoffs.

Notable Mentions

Connor Norby, Marlins
Norby has made an immediate impact with the Marlins, setting a team record for extra-base hits in his first six games. His .350 average and .650 slugging percentage highlight his strong start.

Will Wagner, Blue Jays
Part of the deal for Yusei Kikuchi, Wagner has proven to be a valuable addition for the Blue Jays with a .304 average and .811 OPS, including his first major league home run.

Deadline Winners and Losers

Best Moves:

• Royals: With standout performances from Paul DeJong and Lucas Erceg, the Royals have seen significant improvements. Michael Lorenzen’s impact before his injury further solidified their successful deadline.

• Astros: Acquiring Yusei Kikuchi has paid off handsomely, with Kikuchi’s strong pitching bolstering the Astros' rotation.

• Dodgers and Diamondbacks: Both teams executed their plans effectively, with key additions like Michael Kopech and A.J. Puk proving to be valuable assets.

Worst Moves:

• Mariners: Despite making headline-worthy trades, the Mariners have seen lackluster performances from their acquisitions, particularly in terms of offensive output from Randy Arozarena and Justin Turner.

• Orioles and Guardians: Baltimore and Cleveland both struggled with their deadline acquisitions, with injuries and poor performances dampening their impact.

• Twins: The Twins’ lack of significant additions left them with only Trevor Richards, whose performance has not met expectations.

The trade deadline always brings a mix of hope and uncertainty. As we look back one month later, it's clear that while some teams have reaped the rewards of their deals, others are left wondering what could have been.

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