As we approach the midway point of the MLB offseason, the landscape of trades and free-agent negotiations has shifted dramatically since November. While nearly half of MLBTR's Top 50 Free Agents have found new homes, the trade market remains buzzing with potential moves. With around 20% of the players expected to be dealt already switching teams, several high-profile names are still at risk of being traded as teams re-evaluate their financial strategies and competitive goals.

The trade talks around several players have heated up as teams such as the St. Louis Cardinals and San Diego Padres look to reshape their rosters while keeping an eye on budget constraints.

Here’s a Closer Look at the Top 20 MLB Trade Candidates Right Now:

1. Marcus Stroman

Following the New York Yankees' signing of Max Fried, Stroman's role as the sixth man in their rotation puts him on the trading block. With an $18 million contract still looming and a fluctuating performance history, teams may find him a cost-effective option if the Yankees are willing to facilitate a trade.

2. Nolan Arenado

With a no-trade clause activated, Arenado is a player in high demand—but finding a good fit has proven challenging. The Cardinals are eager to trade him, but the conditions of his contract may limit potential suitors.

3. Dylan Cease

After being acquired last year, Cease's significant salary of $13.75 million could entice the Padres to move him, especially to relieve their budget constraints. His throwing ability makes him a worthy target for other teams looking for starting pitching.

4. Luis Arraez

As a free agent next year, Arraez's $14 million salary could provide the flexibility the team needs. While he excels in contact hitting, the team might trade him to refocus their strategy on cheaper alternatives.

5. Luis Castillo

Despite the Mariners’ resistance to trade from their talented rotation, Castillo's contract may lead to negotiations as they seek to bolster other positions. This move could free up considerable funds to aid their pursuit of free agents.

6. Jordan Montgomery

After a rocky season, Montgomery’s position on the depth chart has shifted, and he could find himself on another team, given the D-backs’ depth in their rotation after securing top talent.

7. Christian Vazquez

With the Twins needing to make payroll adjustments, Vazquez’s declining performance could make him expendable despite his defensive skills. A trade could lighten their financial load.

8. Chris Paddack

Paddack’s recent recovery from surgery makes him an appealing option at a reasonable $7.5 million. His potential to return to form could attract interest from teams needing rotation depth.

9. Spencer Torkelson

Torkelson may have seemingly lost his spot on the Tigers roster but his age and controllability make him an intriguing prospect for teams willing to take a chance on his power potential.

10. LaMonte Wade Jr.

As a solid bat approaching free agency, Wade might be moved as the Giants look to reshape their lineup for additional firepower against right-handed pitching.

11. Steven Matz

Matz's struggles could help him land elsewhere, especially if the Cardinals decide to focus on younger talent. His experience could still be valuable to a team willing to risk a trade.

12. Rhys Hoskins

Hoskins' inconsistent performance could make him a candidate for trade. If the Brewers lower their financial commitment, they could find interest in his services from teams needing a reliable bat.

13. Alec Bohm

The Phillies' openness to trade Bohm suggests they may seek to refresh their stagnant lineup. His future may hinge on how the team's seeking of trades plays out.

14. Triston Casas

A promising young hitter, Casas has emerged in trade conversations as the Red Sox consider reshaping their roster. His potential makes him an enticing asset for pitching-needy teams.

15. Erick Fedde

With the Cardinals' emphasis on youth, Fedde could be traded for prospects, providing value without the expectation of immediate contribution.

16. Ryan Helsley

As a dominant closer with reasonable salary demands, Helsley remains a valuable trade piece; however, his ability to yield a strong return might tempt teams looking for reliable bullpen help.

17. Camilo Doval

After losing his closer role, Doval remains an intriguing arm for teams seeking to bolster their pitching staff. His high strikeout rates make him a valuable asset for a contending team.

18. Ryan Pressly

The Astros may find themselves needing to shed salary, and Pressly’s contract could be a factor. He remains one of baseball’s most consistent closers and could command significant interest.

19. Starling Marte

With the Mets signaling a possible move, Marte's contract could be difficult to move, but his experience and speed still make him a potential asset for the right team.

20. Robert Suarez

Offered as a potential salary dump, Suarez's effective pitching coupled with his complicated contract situation may deter immediate trades but could pique interest later on.

Final Thoughts: Are We Close to an MLB Shakeup?

The offseason is far from over, and while fans wait with bated breath, the trade market could shift dramatically as teams scramble to finalize rosters before Opening Day. Which of these names will actually be sent packing? Buckle up, baseball fans; it’s bound to be an exciting conclusion to the offseason!