Reviewed and fact-checked by David Chen, Sports Analyst. Last Updated: December 2025.
The **MLB Dynasty Trade Calculator** helps you quickly determine the fair value of a trade proposal in your dynasty baseball league. Simply input three of the four trade variables, and the calculator will solve for the missing Trade Value Score (TVS) required to balance the deal.
MLB Dynasty Trade Calculator
Calculated Missing Value:
—MLB Dynasty Trade Calculator Formula
The core principle is balancing the total trade value scores (TVS) of both sides:
Side A Value + Trade Surplus/Deficit = Side B Value + Draft Pick Value
Or simplified for solving a missing variable (X):
P₁V + TSD = P₂V + DPV
Where X is the unknown variable, and all values are positive Trade Value Scores.
Variables Explained
- P₁V (Player/Side 1 Value): The total Trade Value Score of the player(s) and assets offered by the sending team.
- P₂V (Player/Side 2 Value): The total Trade Value Score of the player(s) being received by the sending team.
- DPV (Future Draft Pick Value): The adjusted value score of any included draft picks (e.g., a first-round pick in next year’s draft).
- TSD (Trade Surplus/Deficit): The value difference needed to finalize the deal. This is the variable the calculator typically solves for.
Related Calculators
Explore other useful tools for managing your MLB dynasty league:
- Minor League Prospect Value Calculator
- Annualized Player Return Estimator
- Waiver Wire FAAB Budget Planner
- Optimal Trade Offer Generator
What is an MLB Dynasty Trade Calculator?
An MLB Dynasty Trade Calculator is an essential tool for competitive fantasy baseball managers. Unlike redraft leagues, dynasty leagues require long-term planning, where the value of a 20-year-old high-ceiling prospect often outweighs the short-term production of an aging veteran star.
This calculator abstracts complex player valuations into a single, objective Trade Value Score (TVS). By assigning a TVS to every asset—from Mike Trout to a 5th-round pick—it allows managers to quickly assess whether a proposed transaction provides a positive return on investment. The goal is to make trading more rational and less dependent on subjective biases.
How to Calculate a Trade Surplus (Example)
- Assign Values: Determine the Trade Value Scores for all assets. Example: Player 1 Value (P₁V) = 250 TVS.
- Determine Incoming Assets: Player 2 Value (P₂V) = 180 TVS, Draft Pick Value (DPV) = 50 TVS.
- Sum the Incoming Side: Side B Total = P₂V + DPV = 180 + 50 = 230 TVS.
- Calculate the Surplus/Deficit: The Trade Surplus/Deficit (TSD) is the difference: TSD = Side B Total – P₁V.
- Final Result: TSD = 230 – 250 = -20 TVS. In this example, Side 1 is overpaying by 20 TVS, meaning a deficit needs to be filled for Side 1 to receive fair value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a Trade Value Score (TVS)?
A TVS is a metric assigned to all players and draft capital to provide an objective, standardized valuation for trade purposes. It typically accounts for age, performance, injury risk, and contract status.
Why is the calculator not solving for the missing variable?
You must leave exactly one input field empty. If you provide values for all four, the calculator performs a consistency check. If you provide fewer than three, it cannot solve the equation.
Can I use this for non-MLB dynasty leagues?
While the concepts apply, the assigned Trade Value Scores (TVS) are specific to MLB player pools. You would need to use appropriate TVS data for NFL, NBA, or other sports.
What does a negative TSD mean?
A negative Trade Surplus/Deficit (TSD) means the value of the assets you are receiving is less than the value of the assets you are sending out. You are currently losing the trade by that negative amount.