As the 2020 Major League Baseball season appears to come closer to fruition, it seems likely that one of the most notable days on the baseball calendar could be delayed by a month.
According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com, MLB’s trade deadline will likely be pushed back to Aug. 31. The trade deadline typically takes place on July 31.
Trades for players placed on waivers had previously been allowed until Aug. 31, although the league did away with that deadline before last season in favor of one trade deadline in July for both waiver and non-waiver trades.
Cotillo reported the possibility of a new trade deadline along with other proposed rule changes for this season. A universal designated hitter, changes to extra innings and the option for pitchers to use a “wet rag” were among these reported rule proposals.
The Phillies have been active in trades during the last two regular seasons. In 2019, the team added outfielder Corey Dickerson and pitcher Jason Vargas as part of their moves near the trade deadline. The year prior, the team traded for infielder Asdrúbal Cabrera a few days before the deadline, and acquired catcher Wilson Ramos and pitcher Aaron Loup on deadline day.
The team was also active before the Aug. 31 deadline in that 2018 season, getting first baseman Justin Bour, pitcher Luis Avilán and outfielder José Bautista. With the trade deadline potentially moving back in 2020, it is possible that the Phillies will be making deals into August once again this season.