With the All-Star break in the past, the Major League Baseball (MLB) landscape turns its attention to the upcoming trade deadline. As teams have completed approximately 100 games this season, several organizations find themselves on the precarious line between being a contender and a non-contender. This year, no single team has dominated the league, leading to the eighth different club taking the top spot in this week’s rankings. Consequently, more teams on the competitive fence may consider acquiring new talent or remain stagnant as the deadline approaches. While this may result in a decline of available trade candidates, it’s likely that any players put on the market will command higher returns, possibly prompting sellers to take bolder steps to reshape their rosters. The next few days are pivotal in delineating the gap between contenders and non-contenders as the deadline of August 1 looms. Here is an updated assessment of all 30 MLB teams.

30. Colorado Rockies (24-75) - Previous Rank: 30 - Last Week: 2-1 vs. MIN - Despite their clear position as sellers, the Rockies lack significant trade assets. Third baseman Ryan McMahon, however, could provide value to a contender, particularly if Colorado agrees to absorb some of his salary. He performed well at the onset of the second half, going 4-for-11 with two doubles and two home runs against the Twins.

29. Washington Nationals (39-60) - Previous Rank: 28 - Last Week: 1-2 vs. SD - The Nationals have struggled recently with a 2-10 record over their last 12 games, following a surprising series win over the Tigers at the beginning of July. To surpass last year’s finish of 71-91, they will need a strong performance, finishing at 33-30 over their remaining 63 games. Speculation has arisen regarding potential trade moves involving MacKenzie Gore; however, given his club control through 2027, a significant return would be required to entice a deal.

28. Pittsburgh Pirates (39-61) - Previous Rank: 27 - Last Week: 0-3 vs. CWS - The Pirates commenced the second half on a sour note with a three-game sweep against the White Sox. They are preparing for business at the trade deadline, with only ace Paul Skenes and veteran Andrew McCutchen deemed untouchable in any discussions. Late-inning relievers Dennis Santana and David Bednar are likely candidates to be moved as the season progresses.

27. Chicago White Sox (35-65) - Previous Rank: 29 - Last Week: 3-0 @ PIT - Entering the All-Star break, the White Sox were the only team in MLB without a series sweep in 2025. This statistic was amended promptly with a three-game sweep of the Pirates. Luis Robert Jr. showcased his ability, going 5-for-10 with a home run, potentially attracting trade interest due to flashes of his previous standout performances.

26. Atlanta Braves (43-55) - Previous Rank: 26 - Last Week: 1-2 vs. NYY - The Braves began the second half with an uncertain rotation behind Spencer Strider, inserting Joey Wentz, Grant Holmes, Bryce Elder, and Davis Daniel into the starting lineup. The recent acquisition of Dane Dunning from the Rangers could help solidify their pitching depth, as he assumes a swingman role.

25. Athletics (42-59) - Previous Rank: 25 - Last Week: 1-2 @ CLE - The Athletics' youth movement has seen the use of 20 different rookies, including Jacob Wilson and Denzel Clarke. The second half will focus on evaluating this emerging talent. While veterans Luis Urías and Gio Urshela could attract interest from contenders, a quiet trade deadline is anticipated.

24. Baltimore Orioles (44-54) - Previous Rank: 24 - Last Week: 1-2 @ TB - The Orioles briefly appeared to turn a corner before the All-Star break, winning six out of seven games. Following two consecutive losses, they extended their losing streak to four games before securing a win on Sunday. Rental starters Zach Eflin, Charlie Morton, and Tomoyuki Sugano may be on the move, while Ryan O'Hearn and Cedric Mullins are expected to be their most valuable trade assets.

23. Kansas City Royals (48-52) - Previous Rank: 23 - Last Week: 1-2 @ MIA - The Royals boast the third-worst record in the American League since May, falling short of the expectations set by last year’s playoff appearance. Their offensive struggles rank them near the bottom of the league in run production, despite a commendable starting rotation. Expect Seth Lugo to be dealt at the deadline, particularly as he holds a player option for 2026 that is likely to be declined.

22. Minnesota Twins (48-51) - Previous Rank: 21 - Last Week: 1-2 @ COL - The Twins have experienced a rollercoaster of results this season, with a peak of 18-8 in May followed by dismal performances in June. Whether they will choose to sell or hold remains to be seen, but relievers Jhoan Durán and Griffin Jax could be hot commodities if they opt for a trade.

21. Miami Marlins (46-52) - Previous Rank: 20 - Last Week: 2-1 vs. KC - The Marlins caught attention with an impressive eight-game winning streak at the end of June and into July. Recently, their performance has cooled somewhat, but they remain competitive, boasting an 8-7 record in their last 15 games. The return of Eury Pérez, who has demonstrated a strong pitching capability since his season debut, has raised optimism among fans.

20. Cleveland Guardians (48-50) - Previous Rank: 22 - Last Week: 2-1 vs. ATH - The Guardians found their footing after hitting a season-low of eight games below .500, going 8-2 over their last ten games. With a favorable schedule ahead, they position themselves as a potential competitor in the wild-card race, prompting cautious optimism among supporters.

19. St. Louis Cardinals (51-49) - Previous Rank: 14 - Last Week: 0-3 @ ARI - The Cardinals initially exceeded expectations in the first half of the season, but a 4-10 record in July has raised questions about their trajectory. They could steer towards a selling approach at the trade deadline, with closer Ryan Helsley and starter Sonny Gray as potential trade assets.

18. Los Angeles Angels (49-50) - Previous Rank: 18 - Last Week: 2-1 @ PHI - The Angels are on course to surpass last year's dismal record of 63-99, though they remain a distant fourth in the AL West standings. The decision regarding whether to retain players such as Taylor Ward and Kenley Jansen will heavily fall on their performance and aspirations for the remainder of the season.

17. Arizona Diamondbacks (50-50) - Previous Rank: 19 - Last Week: 3-0 vs. STL - A favorable stretch against lesser competition awaits the Diamondbacks, who must make crucial decisions regarding their roster at the trade deadline while competing for a wild-card spot. Contenders will likely hope for the availability of All-Star slugger Eugenio Suárez as the deadline approaches.

16. Tampa Bay Rays (52-48) - Previous Rank: 16 - Last Week: 2-1 vs. BAL - The Rays have struggled to maintain their momentum, slipping in the AL East standings. A number of veterans, including Yandy Díaz and Brandon Lowe, may find themselves on the trading block as the organization looks for ways to balance competitiveness with fiscal responsibility.

15. Cincinnati Reds (52-48) - Previous Rank: 15 - Last Week: 2-1 @ NYM - The Reds have rebounded well, achieving a 6-2 record in their last eight games. Their offense, buoyed by the impressive performance of Austin Hays this season, places them in contention for a wild-card position.

14. Texas Rangers (50-50) - Previous Rank: 17 - Last Week: 2-1 vs. DET - Trade rumors surrounded the Rangers earlier in the season, but they have surged back into playoff contention thanks to a positive July. However, their success at home will need to translate to better performance on the road for them to continue their playoff pursuit.

13. San Francisco Giants (52-48) - Previous Rank: 11 - Last Week: 0-3 @ TOR - After losing five straight games, the Giants have seen their strong position in the NL West weaken, allowing competitors to rise in the standings. Their struggling offense remains a concern, and further acquisitions may be necessary to bolster their playoff aspirations.

12. New York Mets (56-44) - Previous Rank: 8 - Last Week: 1-2 vs. CIN - The Mets have faced a challenging run of games and are up against a formidable schedule ahead. Their performance on the forthcoming West Coast trip is crucial, as they aim to improve upon a disappointing away record this season.

11. San Diego Padres (54-45) - Previous Rank: 13 - Last Week: 2-1 @ WAS - Despite possessing a talented roster, the Padres have displayed inconsistencies against teams with winning records. Enhancing their left field position will be critical as they continue to address their needs at the trade deadline.

10. Boston Red Sox (54-47) - Previous Rank: 9 - Last Week: 1-2 @ CHC - Following a ten-game winning streak, the Red Sox faced a robust Cubs team that impeded their momentum. The pitching rotation has become a strength, contrasting with earlier struggles as several starters have performed admirably in July.

9. New York Yankees (55-44) - Previous Rank: 12 - Last Week: 2-1 @ ATL - The Yankees have rebounded from a tough stretch, demonstrating resilience in their last ten games. Addressing their needs for a third baseman and starting pitcher will be crucial as they navigate a competitive landscape in the AL East.

8. Philadelphia Phillies (56-43) - Previous Rank: 6 - Last Week: 1-2 vs. LAA - The Phillies have bolstered their bullpen by acquiring veteran David Robertson and are expected to make additional moves to enhance their relief pitching. A challenging stretch of games looms ahead, testing their lead in the NL East.

7. Houston Astros (57-42) - Previous Rank: 4 - Last Week: 1-2 @ SEA - The Astros face increasing challenges with key players on the injured list. Their need to secure additional batting help has become essential as they assess how to navigate the trade market effectively.

6. Seattle Mariners (53-46) - Previous Rank: 10 - Last Week: 2-1 vs. HOU - The Mariners’ offense has thrived in July, securing their status among the AL’s elite. With a strong prospect pipeline, they are well-positioned to make significant moves at the trade deadline.

5. Los Angeles Dodgers (58-42) - Previous Rank: 5 - Last Week: 0-3 vs. MIL - The Dodgers concluded a rough series against the Brewers while dealing with irreplaceable injuries to key players. While these setbacks are troubling, their position in the NL West still offers optimism for their season moving forward.

4. Toronto Blue Jays (58-41) - Previous Rank: 7 - Last Week: 3-0 vs. SF - The Blue Jays have excelled recently, achieving an impressive record since June. Addressing areas of need before the trade deadline will enhance their already-competitive roster.

3. Detroit Tigers (60-40) - Previous Rank: 1 - Last Week: 1-2 @ TEX - The Tigers maintain the largest division lead in baseball, but challenges remain as they adapt to their sudden frontline role. There’s potential for improvements in the bullpen to augment their powerful late-game performances.

2. Chicago Cubs (59-40) - Previous Rank: 2 - Last Week: 2-1 vs. BOS - The Cubs continue to impress, both in their recent form and in maintaining a relatively easy schedule ahead. They possess the talent and resources to make significant acquisitions as they gear up for the playoffs.

1. Milwaukee Brewers (59-40) - Previous Rank: 3 - Last Week: 3-0 @ LAD - The Brewers accomplished a series sweep against the Dodgers while surging to tie the Cubs atop the NL Central standings. With unexpected contributions from players, their team chemistry showcases the essence of successful baseball, setting them up well for future matchups.