As the All-Star break is now behind and teams resume their regular-season schedules, Major League Baseball (MLB) shifts its attention to the looming trade deadline. With approximately 100 games completed for each franchise, several teams find themselves on the precarious line between being a contender and a non-contender. The current season has not seen a singularly dominant team; the latest top-ranked team in this week's standings marks the eighth different franchise to hold the top position this year. This parity may lead more teams hovering on the contention bubble to either make acquisitions or maintain their current rosters. Consequently, fewer players will be available for trade, yet those that are could demand higher returns in prospects, encouraging sellers to consider a more aggressive approach in restructuring their rosters. The upcoming days are crucial in defining the trajectory of the remainder of the season, as the distinction between contenders and pretenders will likely emerge by the August 1 deadline. A comprehensive examination of each team's current standing in the league follows.

30. Colorado Rockies (24-75) - Previous Rank: 30; Last Week: 2-1 vs. MIN - Despite their status as clear sellers, the Rockies possess limited trade assets on their roster. Third baseman Ryan McMahon might attract interest from a contender if Colorado is willing to absorb part of his salary. McMahon posted strong numbers against the Minnesota Twins, going 4-for-11 with two doubles and two home runs in three games, signaling his potential value to other teams.

29. Washington Nationals (39-60) - Previous Rank: 28; Last Week: 1-2 vs. SD - The Nationals have struggled significantly, posting a 2-10 record over their last 12 contests since a surprising series victory against the Tigers at the start of July. To improve upon last year's 71-91 record, the Nationals would need to go 33-30 over their final 63 games. Speculation has emerged regarding the potential availability of MacKenzie Gore, although acquiring him would likely require a substantial return due to his club control extending through 2027.

28. Pittsburgh Pirates (39-61) - Previous Rank: 27; Last Week: 0-3 vs. CWS - To begin the second half, the Pirates suffered a disappointing three-game sweep at the hands of the White Sox. With full transparency at the trade deadline, only ace Paul Skenes and franchise legend Andrew McCutchen are reportedly untouchable in negotiations. Late-inning relievers Dennis Santana and David Bednar are expected to be among the players traded this summer.

27. Chicago White Sox (35-65) - Previous Rank: 29; Last Week: 3-0 @ PIT - The White Sox entered the All-Star break as the only team in baseball without a series sweep in 2025, but they quickly changed that narrative with a three-game sweep of the Pirates. Luis Robert Jr. showcased his abilities with a 5-for-10 performance, including a home run against Pittsburgh, potentially increasing his trade value.

26. Atlanta Braves (43-55) - Previous Rank: 26; Last Week: 1-2 vs. NYY - The Braves opened the second half with Joey Wentz, Grant Holmes, Bryce Elder, and Davis Daniel filling out their starting rotation behind Spencer Strider, reflecting a challenging situation for a team anticipated to contend for a division title. The recent acquisition of Dane Dunning from the Rangers aims to bolster their rotation with depth.

25. Oakland Athletics (42-59) - Previous Rank: 25; Last Week: 1-2 @ CLE - The Athletics have fielded a remarkable 20 different rookies this season, with Jake Wilson, Nick Kurtz, Jacob Lopez, Max Muncy, and Denzel Clarke among them. The focus for the remainder of the season will be on evaluating young talent. Veterans Luis Urías and Gio Urshela could attract interest from contenders, but a quiet deadline is anticipated.

24. Baltimore Orioles (44-54) - Previous Rank: 24; Last Week: 1-2 @ TB - Following a brief resurgence before the All-Star break, the Orioles struggled with back-to-back losses, extending their losing streak to four games before securing a win on Sunday. Potential rental starters such as Zach Eflin, Charlie Morton, and Tomoyuki Sugano may be available as trade chips, with Ryan O'Hearn and Cedric Mullins being among their most valuable assets.

23. Kansas City Royals (48-52) - Previous Rank: 23; Last Week: 1-2 @ MIA - The Royals have been among the poorest-performing teams in the American League since early May, falling short of heightened expectations following last year's playoff appearance. With their offense ranking 29th in the majors, scoring merely 343 runs, a solid starting rotation has been underutilized. Seth Lugo is likely to be on the move, given his player option for 2026 that he may decline.

22. Minnesota Twins (48-51) - Previous Rank: 21; Last Week: 1-2 @ COL - The Twins' performance has been inconsistent, oscillating between an 18-8 record in May and a 9-18 record in June. With an 8-7 July thus far, their trajectory remains unpredictable. Relievers Jhoan Durán and Griffin Jax could be valuable commodities if they opt to sell, although a decision to stand pat would not be unexpected.

21. Miami Marlins (46-52) - Previous Rank: 20; Last Week: 2-1 vs. KC - The Marlins generated excitement with an eight-game winning streak late in June and into July but have cooled since, managing an 8-7 record in their last 15 games. The return of a healthy Eury Pérez has been particularly encouraging, as he has maintained a 3.18 ERA, 0.91 WHIP, and 35 strikeouts in 34 innings since his season debut on June 9.

20. Cleveland Guardians (48-50) - Previous Rank: 22; Last Week: 2-1 vs. ATH - After dropping to a season-low eight games under .500, the Guardians have rebounded with an 8-2 record in their last 10 games, securing series victories over the Astros, White Sox, and Athletics. With one of the easier remaining schedules in baseball, their playoff aspirations should not be ruled out.

19. St. Louis Cardinals (51-49) - Previous Rank: 14; Last Week: 0-3 @ ARI - Despite exceeding expectations for much of the first half, the Cardinals' recent 4-10 performance in July has raised questions about their approach at the trade deadline. Among their most notable trade chips are closer Ryan Helsley and starter Sonny Gray, while Steven Matz and Phil Maton could also be moved.

18. Los Angeles Angels (49-50) - Previous Rank: 18; Last Week: 2-1 @ PHI - The Angels are showing signs of improvement over their previous season's 63-99 record, yet they remain a distant fourth in the AL West and sixth in the wild-card standings. The decision to retain or trade players like Taylor Ward, Tyler Anderson, and Kenley Jansen hinges on their desire to achieve a winning record.

17. Arizona Diamondbacks (50-50) - Previous Rank: 19; Last Week: 3-0 vs. STL - With a schedule that includes 13 of their next 25 games against weaker opponents in the Rockies, Pirates, and Athletics, the Diamondbacks face tough decisions leading up to the trade deadline as they attempt to close a 4.5-game gap for the third NL wild-card spot. Many contenders are expressing interest in All-Star slugger Eugenio Suárez.

16. Tampa Bay Rays (52-48) - Previous Rank: 16; Last Week: 2-1 vs. BAL - The Rays began the season strong but have faltered recently, recording a 5-12 record over their last 17 games. Veterans Yandy Díaz, Brandon Lowe, and Zack Littell could be potential trade candidates as they seek ways to reduce payroll while remaining competitive.

15. Cincinnati Reds (52-48) - Previous Rank: 15; Last Week: 2-1 @ NYM - The Reds have achieved a commendable 6-2 record in their last eight games, putting them on the fringe of the NL wild-card chase. Notably, Austin Hays has emerged as a key addition, boasting an .877 OPS, 10 home runs, and 40 RBIs across just 187 plate appearances.

14. Texas Rangers (50-50) - Previous Rank: 17; Last Week: 2-1 vs. DET - Trade speculation surrounded the Rangers' roster in June, but they have surged back into playoff contention with a 9-6 record and a plus-39 run differential in July. While they have performed better at home with a 28-20 record, improving their performance on the road will be essential for a successful postseason run.

13. San Francisco Giants (52-48) - Previous Rank: 11; Last Week: 0-3 @ TOR - The Giants have experienced a challenging stretch, losing five consecutive games and six of their last seven, allowing the Padres to surpass them in the NL West standings. The team's offensive struggles are apparent, as they rank low in runs per game. Although they acquired Rafael Devers from the Red Sox, an additional offensive upgrade, particularly at first base or second base, is still necessary.

12. New York Mets (56-44) - Previous Rank: 8; Last Week: 1-2 vs. CIN - The Mets' recent record of 4-6, including two series losses, places them in a tough position with one of the most challenging remaining schedules among contenders. Their upcoming West Coast road trip will be vital as they aim to improve on a lackluster performance outside of Citi Field against teams like the Giants and Padres.

11. San Diego Padres (54-45) - Previous Rank: 13; Last Week: 2-1 @ WAS - With a 23-36 record against teams with winning records, the Padres present a complex case as a contender. Despite having star power, there are pressing roster needs to address, including finding a reliable everyday left fielder and shifting Gavin Sheets to a primary designated hitter role.

10. Boston Red Sox (54-47) - Previous Rank: 9; Last Week: 1-2 @ CHC - Entering the All-Star break with a ten-game winning streak, the Red Sox faced a formidable Cubs team after the festivities and narrowly avoided a sweep. Pitchers Garrett Crochet, Brayan Bello, and Lucas Giolito have excelled in July, transforming the rotation from a weakness to a reliable aspect of their game.

9. New York Yankees (55-44) - Previous Rank: 12; Last Week: 2-1 @ ATL - After matching a season-high six-game losing streak, the Yankees have rebounded, winning 7 of their last 10 games. They are currently prioritizing upgrades at third base and a starting pitcher to mitigate the loss of Clarke Schmidt. Given the competitive nature in the AL East, an aggressive approach in the trade market is likely.

8. Philadelphia Phillies (56-43) - Previous Rank: 6; Last Week: 1-2 vs. LAA - To address their inadequate bullpen, the Phillies signed veteran David Robertson, with hopes for further enhancements to their relief corps ahead of the trade deadline. An upcoming schedule involving nine games in 12 days against the Red Sox, Yankees, and Tigers will test the resilience of their NL East lead.

7. Houston Astros (57-42) - Previous Rank: 4; Last Week: 1-2 @ SEA - With injuries impacting several key players, including Isaac Paredes, Yordan Alvarez, and Jeremy Pena, the Astros are likely to prioritize offensive acquisitions as the trade deadline approaches. Furthermore, they may seek a dependable arm to complement Hunter Brown and Framber Valdez in their pitching rotation.

6. Seattle Mariners (53-46) - Previous Rank: 10; Last Week: 2-1 vs. HOU - The Mariners have demonstrated offensive prowess, accumulating 81 runs over the past 15 games. Their recent five-game winning streak underscores their competitiveness as they position themselves alongside AL's top teams. With the league's leading farm system, they have considerable flexibility for potential trades.

5. Los Angeles Dodgers (58-42) - Previous Rank: 5; Last Week: 0-3 vs. MIL - The Dodgers recently experienced a sweep at the hands of the Brewers and lost first baseman Freddie Freeman to an injury, though initial reports indicate that he is day-to-day. Despite struggling to maintain consistency with a 2-8 record in their last 10 games, they still hold a 3.5-game lead in the NL West.

4. Toronto Blue Jays (58-41) - Previous Rank: 7; Last Week: 3-0 vs. SF - The Blue Jays have not suffered a losing streak longer than two games since mid-June, showcasing a remarkable 20-8 record during that stretch, which marks the best in the American League and second-best in MLB behind the Brewers. Although their outfield depth has improved with recent performances, acquiring another bat and a reliable late-inning reliever remains on their checklist.

3. Detroit Tigers (60-40) - Previous Rank: 1; Last Week: 1-2 @ TEX - The Tigers lead their division by a significant margin, a feat partly attributable to the fact that they are the only AL Central team with a winning record. They currently possess the best record in MLB, though the bullpen that drove their unexpected late-season success last year now presents as an area for potential upgrades.

2. Chicago Cubs (59-40) - Previous Rank: 2; Last Week: 2-1 vs. BOS - The Cubs have enjoyed a string of impressive series wins over the Yankees and Red Sox around the All-Star break, facing the easiest schedule of any team in the second half. Their considerable farm system depth along with their clear needs and championship aspirations could lead them to make significant moves at the trade deadline.

1. Milwaukee Brewers (59-40) - Previous Rank: 3; Last Week: 3-0 @ LAD - After completing a three-game sweep of the Dodgers, the Brewers have drawn even with the Cubs atop the NL Central standings. Contributions from unexpected players, such as those in the bottom order and the emergence of Quinn Priester as a dependable rotation member, exemplify the team's current form. With an essential series against the Cubs approaching, the Brewers stoke their postseason aspirations.