With the All-Star break behind them and the regular season back in full swing, Major League Baseball is shifting its focus toward the quickly approaching trade deadline. With approximately 100 games completed for each team, many clubs find themselves teetering between being contenders and non-contenders. This season has lacked a single dominant team; in fact, the current top-ranked team in this week’s standings marks the eighth different team to claim the number one spot this year. This parity could influence more teams on the cusp to either invest or maintain the status quo as the deadline nears, likely resulting in fewer available trade candidates. However, the players that are made available may command higher returns in terms of prospects, potentially motivating sellers to be more proactive in restructuring their rosters.

As the deadline draws closer, the coming days are poised to significantly impact the remainder of the season. A clear dividing line between contenders and pretenders is expected to emerge by August 1. In the meantime, an updated overview of each of the 30 teams’ standings is provided below.

1. Colorado Rockies (24-75): Despite being clear sellers, the Rockies have a roster that is lacking in trade chips. Third baseman Ryan McMahon, who went 4-for-11 with two doubles and two home runs against the Twins, could be appealing to a contender if Colorado is willing to manage a portion of his salary.

2. Washington Nationals (39-60): Following a solid series win against the Tigers earlier this month, the Nationals have struggled with a 2-10 record over their last 12 games. They require a 33-30 finish in their final 63 matches to improve on the previous year’s record of 71-91. Speculation suggests that pitcher MacKenzie Gore might be on the trading block, although significant compensation would be necessary to acquire him due to his club control through 2027.

3. Pittsburgh Pirates (39-61): After being swept by the White Sox in a three-game series, the Pirates are becoming active sell-side players as the trade deadline approaches. Notably, only ace Paul Skenes and veteran Andrew McCutchen are deemed untouchable, while relievers Dennis Santana and David Bednar are likely candidates to be moved.

4. Chicago White Sox (35-65): The White Sox entered the second half empty-handed in terms of series sweeps, having not achieved one all season. However, they turned that around with a sweep of the Pirates; Luis Robert Jr. contributed significantly, going 5-for-10 with a home run. His improved performance may generate trade interest.

5. Atlanta Braves (43-55): The Braves, anticipated to be contenders, began the second half with a rotation featuring Joey Wentz and Grant Holmes, indicating difficulties ahead. They recently acquired Dane Dunning from the Rangers, who can alleviate bullpen stress in a swingman role.

6. Oakland Athletics (42-59): Utilizing a remarkable 20 different rookies this season, the Athletics are focusing on assessing young talent in the latter half. Veterans Luis Urías and Gio Urshela may attract interest as trade assets, but a quiet deadline is expected.

7. Baltimore Orioles (44-54): The Orioles showed signs of resurgence before the break with a 6-1 record but extended their losing streak to four games before securing a win. Rental starters Zach Eflin and Charlie Morton could be available, alongside valuable trade chips Ryan O'Hearn and Cedric Mullins.

8. Kansas City Royals (48-52): With only teams like the Guardians and Athletics below them in the standings since May, the Royals have failed to meet heightened expectations from last year’s playoff appearance. Their offense ranks near the bottom of the league with 343 runs scored, creating pressure for players like Seth Lugo, who may be on the move.

9. Minnesota Twins (48-51): The Twins exhibited inconsistent performances, evidenced by going 18-8 in May but slipping to a 9-18 record in June. Relievers Jhoan Durán and Griffin Jax could be sought after if the decision to sell is made.

10. Miami Marlins (46-52): The Marlins captured attention with an eight-game winning streak at the end of June; despite cooling off, they maintain an 8-7 record in their last 15 encounters. The return of healthy pitcher Eury Pérez, boasting solid ERA and WHIP stats since his debut, is a ray of hope for fans.

11. Cleveland Guardians (48-50): Since hitting a season-low eight games below .500, the Guardians have rebounded with an 8-2 record in their last 10 contests. They face a favorable remaining schedule and could still make a push for a wildcard bid.

12. St. Louis Cardinals (51-49): Although the Cardinals exceeded expectations during the early season, a 4-10 record in July raises questions about selling at the trade deadline. Key players like closer Ryan Helsley and pitcher Sonny Gray are prime candidates for trade.

13. Los Angeles Angels (49-50): The Angels are on the path to a more favorable outcome than last year's dismal record. However, they remain significantly behind in the AL West standings. Decisions regarding whether to retain players such as Taylor Ward or pursue trades remain uncertain.

14. Arizona Diamondbacks (50-50): Facing a crucial juncture, the Diamondbacks must navigate the trade deadline carefully, especially with a number of upcoming games against lesser opponents. Contenders are likely interested in slugger Eugenio Suárez as trade possibilities surface.

15. Tampa Bay Rays (52-48): The Rays were recently in contention for the AL East but now find themselves in a slump with a poor record since late June. Veteran players Yandy Díaz and Brandon Lowe could be among those in trade discussions as the team seeks to improve while managing payroll.

16. Cincinnati Reds (52-48): The Reds are on an upswing with a 6-2 record in their last eight games; their success places them in contention for a wild card spot. Austin Hays’ offensive production has made a notable difference this year.

17. Texas Rangers (50-50): The Rangers have turned their season around with a positive July record and now seek to sustain playoff positioning. They must enhance their road performance, which has lagged behind their home record.

18. San Francisco Giants (52-48): The Giants have recently lost crucial ground, with offensive struggles contributing to their five consecutive losses. Calls for additional roster improvements are growing as the trade deadline approaches.

19. New York Mets (56-44): The Mets are currently at risk, grappling with a challenging schedule that could impact their playoff aspirations. Upcoming series on the West Coast may prove critical to their performance moving forward.

20. San Diego Padres (54-45): The Padres carry star power yet struggle against competitive teams. With glaring needs to address, particularly in their outfield, they must act decisively as the deadline approaches.

21. Boston Red Sox (54-47): The Red Sox entered the break with a winning streak; however, a loss to the Cubs after the break highlighted vulnerabilities. Their pitching has improved, but bolstering the rotation further will be pivotal.

22. New York Yankees (55-44): After a rough start to July, the Yankees have bounced back and are looking to reinforce their lineup through trade. Upgrades at third base and starting pitching occupy their immediate priorities.

23. Philadelphia Phillies (56-43): The Phillies have made strides to bolster their bullpen, which has been a significant concern throughout the season. Their upcoming games will test their standing in the NL East.

24. Houston Astros (57-42): The Astros face mounting injuries to key players, prompting discussions around adding offensive and pitching support before the trade deadline. Their depth may be tested in the pursuit of further success.

25. Seattle Mariners (53-46): The Mariners have demonstrated a strong offensive output, and with their top-rated farm system, they hold significant leverage as they navigate the trade deadline landscape.

26. Los Angeles Dodgers (58-42): The Dodgers suffered a sweep at the hands of the Brewers; injuries threaten their depth, raising concerns as they seek to maintain their lead in the NL West.

27. Toronto Blue Jays (58-41): The Blue Jays have maintained a strong record, positioning themselves favorably in the AL. They may still look to make moves to address any lingering weaknesses in their rotation.

28. Detroit Tigers (60-40): The Tigers enjoy the largest division lead in MLB and exhibit the best overall record. However, attention may turn toward strengthening their bullpen to maintain their lead.

29. Chicago Cubs (59-40): Following noteworthy series victories, the Cubs benefit from an easier schedule, which may encourage them to pursue trades to improve their postseason odds.

30. Milwaukee Brewers (59-40): Completing a series sweep of the Dodgers, the Brewers have momentarily climbed to the top of the NL Central. They continue to receive unexpected contributions across their roster.