With the All-Star break behind and the regular season back in full swing, Major League Baseball (MLB) is shifting focus to the impending trade deadline. With each team roughly 100 games into the season, several clubs find themselves navigating the delicate balance between being contenders and non-contenders. There has yet to be a singularly dominant team this season, as evidenced by the number one team in this week's rankings being the eighth different squad to hold that position. This uncertainty regarding which teams might buy or hold pat at the trade deadline may lead to fewer available trade candidates. However, those players that are made available are likely to command higher returns in prospects, which might, in turn, persuade sellers to take a more aggressive stance in dismantling their rosters. The following days will play a significant role in shaping the remainder of the season, delineating the line between contenders and pretenders by August 1.

Examining the current standings, the Colorado Rockies sit at the bottom with a record of 24-75. Despite their obvious status as sellers, they lack substantial trade assets. Third baseman Ryan McMahon is highlighted as a potential contributor for a contender, especially after posting a strong performance with two doubles and two home runs in three games against the Minnesota Twins, going 4-for-11 to start the second half of the season. The Washington Nationals, at 39-60, have struggled recently, going 2-10 in their last 12 games after a surprising series win against the Detroit Tigers. Speculation surrounds pitcher MacKenzie Gore, who might be on the trading block, but his club control until 2027 could make it challenging to pry him away without a significant offer.

The Pittsburgh Pirates are another team looking to enter the trade market, presently sitting at a 39-61 record following a three-game sweep at the hands of the Chicago White Sox. Despite their struggles, ace Paul Skenes and franchise icon Andrew McCutchen are viewed as untouchable as trade talks heat up, particularly as late-inning relievers Dennis Santana and David Bednar emerge as likely candidates for movement this summer.