The MLB trade deadline expires in a few hours, with all sorts of rumors flying around the league right now.
One of the biggest has to do with Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman, who could be on the move. Rutschman, the three-time All-Star, has served Baltimore well, but given that the team needs a rebuild, he could net them a solid return.
Rutschman also has one more season of team control left before he can become a free agent. It doesn’t seem likely that he’ll sign an extension to remain in Baltimore, so getting something of value for him makes sense.
The Orioles have been listening to trades on the star catcher, with the New York Yankees being heavily linked to him. However, it’s not just the Yankees who want Rutschman, with two other AL East teams getting involved now.
Yankees, Red Sox, and Rays Interested in Adley Rutschman
According to MLB insider Joel Sherman, the Tampa Bay Rays and Boston Red Sox also have their eyes on Rutschman. This could create a strange in-division bidding war for the All-Star catcher.
Keep in mind it is not just the Yankees in even just the AL East that have eyes on Rutschman, but the Rays and keep an eye on the surging Red Sox, who very much are trying to improve their roster. https://t.co/Z6kKpHmR5j
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) August 3, 2026
Multiple teams across the league are in desperate need at the catcher spot, giving the Orioles the upper hand in any Rutschman trade. Baltimore doesn’t have to trade Rutschman, but given the interest and value, moving him now could net them the largest return.
On the year, the star catcher has hit .251 with eight home runs and 57 RBIs, while posting an OPS of .764. Rutschman has dealt with injury issues this season, with the catcher currently on the injured list and not expected to return until mid-August.
But given his talent, once he does come back, he could be a massive pickup for any team. In-division trades can be hard to make, especially for star players.
However, both the Yankees and Rays have strong farm systems that the Orioles can pick from. Boston also has the assets to get a deal done, so if the Orioles are comfortable sending him to a rival, they could gut that team’s farm system.
All three teams are fighting for a playoff spot, with the Red Sox surging following a poor start to the season. Boston could be determined to upgrade the lineup after this, making them a legit candidate to steal Rutschman from the Yankees.
The Rays have historically stayed away from trades like this, but with how good of a team Tampa Bay has this season, maybe it’s time for a chance. Tampa Bay already added a starting pitcher, and if they could upgrade the catcher spot, a World Series could be in their sights.
Overall, the Orioles can simply hold Rutschman until the offseason if a deal doesn’t come together. Baltimore isn’t that far off from a playoff spot themselves, but trading the catcher now could set this team up well for the future.
AL East Rivals Battling Yankees For Orioles’ Adley Rutschman: Report