Some of the most successful trades in MLB history

In the same way traders invest in stocks, sports teams invest in new talent to improve their fortunes. For instance, in the soccer world, Premier League clubs like Chelsea are always purchasing young players who can be developed and sold for fortunes. In MLB, something similar applies, with teams exchanging players to strengthen their rosters. 

Throughout the history of the competition, some of the MLB’s most famous franchises have pulled off masterstrokes after acquiring the services of players who changed their trajectories in the sport. Some players have even gone on to become team legends, given what they achieved. Of course, not every addition necessarily works out, though, but we’re only focusing on the most successful trades in baseball history. 

These trades are remembered by many fans, particularly given the fact that some of the players on the list produced game-winning moments on a consistent basis; they were therefore regularly backed by bettors who assess options like DraftKings latest MLB odds, and they were a joy to watch. So, without further ado, below we briefly highlight some of the most successful trades in MLB history. 

John Smoltz to ATL and Doyle Alexander to DET

When John Smoltz joined the Atlanta Braves and Doyle Alexander went the other way to DET, plenty of eyebrows were raised by fans and experts alike. In the end, it was justified, as Smoltz went on to become one of the finest pitchers of his generation. The Tigers clearly didn’t see it coming. Eventually, they were forced to watch from behind the sofa as their former player went on to have 200+ wins and 150+ saves in a truly amazing career. 

Babe Ruth to NYY

Babe Ruth is an icon associated with the sport of baseball, although people often forget just how shrewd his $100,000 move to NYY was. The Yankees are a prestigious team in their own right, but Ruth became the main attraction during his time with the team. The legendary baseball player’s cost was entirely justified thanks to four championship wins, while Ruth was also a likable presence off the field. For many, when assessing the most impactful trades in MLB history, Babe Ruth’s move is the biggest of the lot. 

Steve Pearce to the Red Sox 

Following their 2018 World Series triumph, many fans of baseball felt most of the credit should have gone to Steve Pearce. The new recruit was part of a deal that saw Santiago Espinal join the Blue Jays in return for Pearce and cash, and the Red Sox eventually viewed it as a shrewd move. Pearce delivered that season, batting well and playing a key role in his team’s ninth World Series win. 

Miguel Cabrera to Detroit

In 2007, Miguel Cabrera sealed a big move to Detroit after leaving the Florida Marlins. While some fans of the Marlins feared the team had made a huge mistake, Detroit fans were celebrating a major coup. After a number of triumphs with the team, Floridian baseball fans were entirely right to be worried as Cabrera went on to be a mainstay on the team, before departing the sport as a Hall of Famer. Also becoming a Triple Crown winner and leading the Tigers’ charge on numerous occasions, Miguel Cabrera’s move couldn’t have gone any better, really.

Other successful trades

The most fruitful trades don’t end there. Lou Brock for Ernie Broglio in 1964 was a genius move, Ryne Sandberg went on to become an MVP after joining the Cubs, and Jeff Bagwell became an MVP after what was a short-term rental for Larry Andersen.