The MLB Trade Rumors Podcast: June 2025 Episode Overview
The newest episode of the MLB Trade Rumors Podcast is now available for listeners on all major podcast platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, as well as through a direct web player for those who prefer alternative access. Hosted by Darragh McDonald, the show features an in-depth conversation with Steve Adams, the lead analyst for MLB Trade Rumors. Together, they explore several pressing topics in the world of Major League Baseball, ranging from free agency forecasts to significant player transactions, prospect promotions, injury updates, and even answer listener questions regarding team strategies and potential trade scenarios.
MLBTR’s Updated 2025-26 Free Agent Power Rankings (Timestamp 2:05)
One of the initial topics discussed is the latest revision of MLB Trade Rumors’ Free Agent Power Rankings for the upcoming 2025-2026 offseason. These rankings are highly anticipated as they provide an informed outlook on which players are expected to be available as free agents, their market value, and how their contracts might shape team-building efforts across the league.
Steve Adams breaks down the rankings, highlighting key names that could dominate the free agent market next offseason. This update reflects changes stemming from the current season’s performance, injury developments, and contract extensions that have removed some players from free agency eligibility. Adams emphasizes the dynamic nature of these rankings — influenced by how players perform over the course of the season, with new breakout stars potentially rising into the free agent pool and veterans declining or securing long-term deals.
Discussion revolves around which teams are best positioned to leverage the free agent market, either as buyers looking to make significant roster upgrades or sellers aiming to offload expensive contracts before they expire. The power rankings also serve as a strategic guide for front offices planning their payroll allocations and roster construction. For instance, teams in smaller markets or with limited payroll flexibility may focus on mid-tier free agents or target younger players with team control, whereas bigger-market clubs may be ready to aggressively pursue top-tier free agents to bolster their chances at postseason success.
Padres’ Interest in Jarren Duran (Timestamp 9:00)
The conversation then shifts to the San Diego Padres’ reported interest in Jarren Duran, an outfielder currently with the Boston Red Sox organization. Duran has shown flashes of potential in limited major league action, known for his athleticism, speed, and defensive capabilities. The Padres’ pursuit of Duran suggests a desire to enhance their outfield depth, possibly to fill gaps created by injuries or underperformance.
Steve Adams provides insight into what this rumored interest might mean for both teams. For the Padres, acquiring Duran could be part of a broader strategy to blend youth with veteran presence, adding a versatile, switch-hitting outfielder capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game. Meanwhile, the Red Sox might be evaluating their roster composition, weighing whether Duran fits into their long-term plans or if he could be used as a trade asset to address other organizational needs.
The discussion also touches on how Duran’s skill set aligns with San Diego’s ballpark and style of play, particularly considering Petco Park’s reputation and the Padres’ emphasis on speed and defense. Adams speculates on the possible trade scenarios, including what Boston might seek in return, whether it’s prospects, pitching depth, or salary relief.
Royals Promote Jac Caglianone (Timestamp 17:55)
Next up is the Kansas City Royals’ decision to call up Jac Caglianone, a promising pitching prospect. Caglianone, who has impressed scouts and analysts with his pitching arsenal and poise on the mound, represents a significant addition to the Royals’ roster as they look to strengthen their pitching staff.
Steve Adams highlights Caglianone’s background, noting his development path through the minor leagues and his pitching profile — including velocity, pitch movement, and command. The Royals, a team focused on rebuilding and cultivating young talent, view Caglianone as a cornerstone for their future rotation or bullpen.
The promotion also reflects the Royals’ strategy to integrate homegrown players into their major league roster, signaling a commitment to development and long-term competitiveness. Adams explores how Caglianone’s presence might impact the Royals’ pitching depth and their chances for improving in the standings.
Mariners Promote Cole Young (Timestamp 24:40)
Similarly, the Seattle Mariners have called up Cole Young, another young talent poised to make an impact at the major league level. Young’s promotion underscores the Mariners’ ongoing efforts to rejuvenate their roster with high-upside players, particularly in their offense.
Adams and McDonald discuss Young’s offensive tools, including his hitting approach, plate discipline, and power potential. They also consider his defensive position and how the Mariners plan to utilize him in their lineup. The team’s willingness to give Young a chance at the big league level demonstrates confidence in his ability to contribute and potentially become a fixture in their lineup moving forward.
The dialogue further examines how the Mariners’ farm system has been producing exciting talent and how promotions like Young’s align with their overall team-building philosophy. This segment also touches on the challenges and expectations young players face when transitioning to the majors, particularly in a competitive division like the American League West.
Dodgers Acquire Alexis Díaz from Reds (Timestamp 28:30)
One of the more significant transactions discussed is the Los Angeles Dodgers’ acquisition of pitcher Alexis Díaz from the Cincinnati Reds. Díaz, known for his relief pitching prowess, bolsters the Dodgers’ bullpen, a crucial component for a team with championship aspirations.
Steve Adams breaks down the trade details, analyzing what the Dodgers gave up to acquire Díaz and how he fits into their pitching staff. The Dodgers, traditionally aggressive buyers at the trade deadline, appear intent on strengthening their pitching depth as they contend for another postseason run.
The podcast also covers Díaz’s performance history, pitching style, and potential impact in high-leverage situations. The move is viewed as a strategic attempt by the Dodgers to ensure bullpen reliability, especially considering the demanding nature of a playoff push.
On the Reds’ side, the trade reflects a continuation of their rebuilding process, moving veteran or established players in exchange for younger talent or prospects, aiming to build a competitive team for the future.
Astros’ Ronel Blanco to Undergo Tommy John Surgery (Timestamp 35:15)
A major injury update is shared regarding Ronel Blanco of the Houston Astros, who is set to undergo Tommy John surgery. This procedure, while common among pitchers, typically requires an extended recovery period, sidelining the player for the remainder of the season and often part of the following one.
Adams explains the implications of Blanco’s injury for the Astros, who rely heavily on their pitching staff to remain competitive. The loss of Blanco not only affects roster depth but also forces the Astros’ management to explore alternative options for bullpen and rotation coverage.
The conversation delves into the nature of Tommy John surgery, its success rates, and the recovery timeline for pitchers. Adams also compares Blanco’s situation to other recent cases in the league and discusses how teams manage injuries of this magnitude strategically.
Braves’ AJ Smith-Shawver Diagnosed with Torn UCL (Timestamp 42:25)
Similarly, the Atlanta Braves received troubling news about AJ Smith-Shawver, who has been diagnosed with a torn UCL (Ulnar Collateral Ligament). This injury also typically necessitates Tommy John surgery, dealing a significant blow to the Braves’ pitching plans.
The podcast hosts analyze Smith-Shawver’s role on the Braves, his performance up to this point, and how this injury might influence the team’s rotation and bullpen management. The timing of the injury is critical, as it forces the Braves to consider replacement options quickly.
Discussion touches on the prevalence of UCL injuries in MLB, prevention strategies, and how teams adapt to losing key pitching pieces midseason. There’s also speculation on potential call-ups or trade moves the Braves might pursue to fill the gap.
Listener Questions: Diamondbacks’ Deadline Outlook & Orioles’ Trade Possibilities (Timestamp 48:45 and 54:10)
The podcast concludes by addressing listener questions, providing deeper insights into team strategies and hypothetical scenarios.
One question focuses on the Arizona Diamondbacks and what their trade deadline strategy might look like if they are unable to improve their position in the standings. Adams and McDonald explore the possibilities of the Diamondbacks shifting from buyers to sellers, potentially trading away veteran assets to build for the future or acquiring prospects in a rebuild phase. They discuss which players might be on the trade block and what kind of return the team might expect.
Another intriguing question considers a thought experiment: if the Baltimore Orioles were open to trading their young star Gunnar Henderson, which teams would realistically have the pieces to pull off such a trade? This leads to a detailed examination of the Orioles’ assets, Henderson’s value as a cornerstone player, and the landscape of teams with both the desire and resources to pursue a blockbuster deal. Adams highlights the complexity of moving top-tier prospects and stars, including contract control, team philosophies, and competitive windows.
Additional Podcast Episodes and Credits
For listeners interested in further baseball discussions, the article references past podcast episodes covering topics such as injuries to Alex Bregman, prospects like Marcelo Mayer, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ situation, and broader league stories including managerial changes and player controversies.
The podcast’s intro and outro music is provided by the band Showoff, with a nod to their Facebook page for fans who want to explore their music.
Conclusion
This episode of the MLB Trade Rumors Podcast provides a comprehensive snapshot of the current MLB landscape as of early June 2025. From updated free agent rankings and trade rumors to prospect promotions and injury reports, the podcast offers valuable insights for fans and analysts alike. The conversation between Darragh McDonald and Steve Adams combines expert analysis with engaging discussion, addressing both the day-to-day developments and the strategic big-picture moves shaping the 2025 season and beyond.
Whether you follow the Padres’ potential outfield upgrades, the Royals’ and Mariners’ exciting young call-ups, the Dodgers’ bullpen reinforcements, or the unfortunate injuries to key pitchers, this episode serves as an essential resource for staying informed on all things MLB trade and roster-related.
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