The Hidden Gems of MLB Trades

Not all trades make headlines, but some of the most under-the-radar deals are proving to be game-changers in the 2025 MLB season. Here’s a look at a few acquisitions that didn’t generate much buzz initially but are now paying unexpected dividends.

Carlos Narvaez (C, Boston Red Sox)

The Trade: Acquired from the New York Yankees for RHP Elmer Rodriguez-Cruz on Dec. 11

2025 AXE: 117.8 (5th on Boston, 67th in MLB)

Carlos Narvaez, once a minor figure in the Yankees' system, has emerged as a key player for the Red Sox. With an impressive AXE rating, Narvaez has outperformed expectations, even hitting a three-run homer against his former team on national television.

Griffin Canning (SP, New York Mets)

The Trade: Acquired by the Atlanta Braves from the Los Angeles Angels for DH Jorge Soler on Oct. 31, then released by the Braves on Nov. 22 and signed as a free agent by the Mets on Dec. 19

2025 AXE: 107.8 (10th on New York, 194th in MLB)

Griffin Canning’s journey through trades and releases has led him to become a reliable starter for the Mets. With a solid ERA and multiple wins, Canning has proven to be a valuable asset in the Mets' rotation.

Chase Meidroth (2B, Chicago White Sox)

The Trade: Acquired from the Red Sox with RHP Wikelman Gonzalez, OF Braden Montgomery and C Kyle Teel for LHP Garrett Crochet on Dec. 11

2025 AXE: 112.2 (2nd on Chicago, 119th in MLB)

Chase Meidroth has quickly become a fixture in the White Sox lineup. Known for his excellent bat-on-ball skills and plate discipline, Meidroth is a throwback to the kind of player who excels in getting on base.

Luis L. Ortiz (SP, Cleveland Guardians)

The Trade: Acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates with LHP Michael Kennedy and Josh Hartle for IF Spencer Horwitz on Dec. 10

2025 AXE: 102.7 (13th on Cleveland, 328th in MLB)

Luis Ortiz has benefited from the Guardians' renowned pitching program, significantly improving his strikeout rate and overall performance. His adjustments have made him a key contributor to Cleveland’s rotation.

Kody Clemens (UTL, Minnesota Twins)

The Trade: Acquired from the Philadelphia Phillies for cash on April 26

2025 AXE: 105.5 (11th on Minnesota, 245th in MLB)

Kody Clemens, initially seen as a stopgap solution, has provided much-needed stability for the Twins. His performance has helped keep the team competitive during a challenging period.

Jesus Luzardo (SP, Philadelphia Phillies)

The Trade: Acquired from the Marlins with C Paul McIntosh for OF Emaarion Boyd and SS Starlyn Caba on Dec. 22

2025 AXE: 119.5 (4th on Philadelphia, 53rd in MLB)

Jesus Luzardo’s early success made him a Cy Young frontrunner, and despite a few rough outings, he remains a crucial part of the Phillies' rotation. His ability to bounce back highlights his resilience and talent.

These trades may have flown under the radar initially, but their impact on the 2025 MLB season is undeniable. Each player has brought unique skills and contributions to their new teams, proving that sometimes the best deals are the ones that don’t make the headlines.