With the All-Star break now behind and the regular-season baseball fully underway, attention in the MLB shifts to the impending trade deadline. After approximately 100 games per team, numerous clubs find themselves straddling the fence between being contenders and non-contenders. This season's competitive landscape is characterized by the absence of one overwhelmingly dominant team, as evidenced by the fact that the top-ranked team this week is the eighth different squad to hold that position this year. Consequently, more teams could be inclined to buy or maintain their current rosters, resulting in a limited pool of available trade candidates. This scenario may lead to higher demands for any players placed on the trading block, possibly prompting sellers to consider more aggressive roster dismantling as the deadline looms closer. The coming days will significantly influence the remainder of the season, as it will become clearer which teams are contenders and which are pretenders by August 1st.

30. Colorado Rockies (24-75) - The Rockies are positioned as clear sellers, yet their roster lacks strong potential trade assets. Third baseman Ryan McMahon has showcased his value to contenders, hitting four for eleven with two doubles and two home runs against the Twins as the second half began. His performance could bolster trade interest if Colorado decides to cover some of his salary.

29. Washington Nationals (39-60) - The Nationals have struggled, going 2-10 over their last 12 games following a surprising series victory against the Tigers earlier in July. To surpass last season's 71-91 record, they would need to finish 33-30 over their next 63 games. There is speculation surrounding MacKenzie Gore's future, as he may be a trade target, though considerable compensation would be required given his team control through 2027.

28. Pittsburgh Pirates (39-61) - The Pirates began the second half with a disappointing three-game sweep at the hands of the White Sox. As the trade deadline approaches, they are open for business, with only ace Paul Skenes and franchise icon Andrew McCutchen deemed untouchable. Late-inning relievers Dennis Santana and David Bednar are expected to generate significant interest in trades this summer.

27. Chicago White Sox (35-65) - The White Sox entered the All-Star break having not achieved a series sweep in 2023, a questionable distinction they rectified by sweeping the Pirates in their opening series of the second half. Luis Robert Jr. performed admirably, going five for ten with a home run, and his resurgence may elicit trade interest from potential buyers.

26. Atlanta Braves (43-55) - The Braves have seen Joey Wentz, Grant Holmes, Bryce Elder, and Davis Daniel filling out the starting rotation behind Spencer Strider as they enter the second half, highlighting the team’s current challenges. To address their rotation, they recently acquired Dane Dunning from the Rangers, who can provide innings as a swingman.

25. Oakland Athletics (42-59) - The Athletics have deployed an impressive 20 rookies this season. As they continue to assess their young talent, veterans Luis Urías and Gio Urshela may pique the interest of contenders, though a quieter deadline is anticipated.

24. Baltimore Orioles (44-54) - The Orioles enjoyed a brief resurgence before the All-Star break with a 6-1 record but have now dropped four consecutive games. Rental starters Zach Eflin, Charlie Morton, and Tomoyuki Sugano may change uniforms by the end of August, while valuable trade prospects include Ryan O'Hearn and Cedric Mullins.

23. Kansas City Royals (48-52) - The Royals have performed poorly since May, ranking among the bottom AL teams. Their offensive struggles have hindered a solid starting rotation's effectiveness. Seth Lugo is likely to be on the move, especially with a player option for 2026 that will likely be declined.

22. Minnesota Twins (48-51) - The Twins have demonstrated inconsistency, posting an 18-8 record in May, followed by 9-18 in June, before an 8-7 July. If they decide to trade, relievers Jhoan Durán and Griffin Jax could attract significant interest, although the team may choose to maintain their current roster.

21. Miami Marlins (46-52) - The Marlins made waves with an eight-game winning streak at the end of June. They have since cooled but remain competitive. Fans have reason to be excited by the return of Eury Pérez, who has recorded a 3.18 ERA and 35 strikeouts in 34 innings since returning in June.

20. Cleveland Guardians (48-50) - The Guardians' fortunes have improved recently, going 8-2 over their last ten games following a dip to eight games under .500. They possess the second-easiest remaining schedule, making them a team to watch in the wild-card race.

19. St. Louis Cardinals (51-49) - Having exceeded expectations in the first half, the Cardinals may still consider selling at the trade deadline after a lackluster 4-10 July. Key trade assets include closer Ryan Helsley and starter Sonny Gray, with Steven Matz and Phil Maton also likely to be discussed in trade talks.

18. Los Angeles Angels (49-50) - The Angels have improved upon last year's performance, but they still sit fourth in the AL West. Their trade strategy remains uncertain as they weigh the potential for a winning record against the possibility of moving players like Taylor Ward, Tyler Anderson, and Kenley Jansen.

17. Arizona Diamondbacks (50-50) - The Diamondbacks face significant challenges ahead, as 13 of their next 25 games are against teams they must outpace for the wild-card position. Contenders are reportedly eyeing All-Star slugger Eugenio Suárez, who may generate considerable market interest.

16. Tampa Bay Rays (52-48) - The Rays were once contenders in the AL East but have since fallen to a 5-12 streak. Potential trade candidates include veterans Yandy Díaz, Brandon Lowe, and Zack Littell as they navigate their financial commitments while striving to remain competitive.

15. Cincinnati Reds (52-48) - The Reds are on a positive upswing, boasting a 6-2 record over their last eight games. Their offensive output, highlighted by Austin Hays' impressive .877 OPS and contributions since joining, makes them formidable in the NL wild-card race.

14. Texas Rangers (50-50) - After initial trade rumors circulated, the Rangers have rejuvenated their playoff hopes with a solid July. They will need to enhance their away performance to solidify their postseason aspirations, boasting a commendable home record.

13. San Francisco Giants (52-48) - The Giants' five consecutive losses have allowed the Padres to surpass them in the NL West standings. Their offensive struggles persist, and they may need to reinforce their lineup to compete effectively.

12. New York Mets (56-44) - Recently, the Mets have struggled, suffering losses in two series out of ten games. As they prepare for a critical West Coast road trip, improving their away record will be necessary to maintain their standing as contenders.

11. San Diego Padres (54-45) - The Padres, despite their star-studded roster, have struggled against winning teams. Their trade focus appears to hinge on acquiring an everyday left fielder, allowing players to optimize their roles.

10. Boston Red Sox (54-47) - The Red Sox, buoyed by a strong rotation in July, managed to avoid being swept by the Cubs, showcasing the potential of their pitching trio. Their success enhances their playoff competitiveness heading into the latter half of the season.

9. New York Yankees (55-44) - After recovering from a six-game losing streak to post a commendable 7-3 record, the Yankees are prioritizing improvements at third base and starting pitcher as they eye a stronger AL East.

8. Philadelphia Phillies (56-43) - Following the addition of veteran David Robertson to bolster their bullpen, the Phillies face a rigorous schedule ahead. Their performance against strong teams will determine their standing in the NL East.

7. Houston Astros (57-42) - The Astros' injury list concerns have intensified, particularly regarding the need for offensive reinforcement ahead of the trade deadline. They may seek to secure depth and reliability in their pitching lineup.

6. Seattle Mariners (53-46) - The Mariners have experienced considerable offensive success, positioning themselves among the AL contenders. With a deep farm system, they are in a prime position to make significant moves before the trade deadline.

5. Los Angeles Dodgers (58-42) - Despite a poor recent performance, the Dodgers maintain a comfortable lead in the NL West. As injury issues arise, they must navigate their current struggles while ensuring stability in their lineup.

4. Toronto Blue Jays (58-41) - The Blue Jays have maintained consistent performance, with their recent success making them the top team in the AL. Their goals at the trade deadline likely include securing additional offensive support and bullpen depth.

3. Detroit Tigers (60-40) - The Tigers lead their division with the best record in baseball, yet their bullpen may require upgrading to maintain their position as they head toward the postseason.

2. Chicago Cubs (59-40) - The Cubs are engaged in a strong campaign, approaching the easiest second-half schedule. They have the potential for major moves at the trade deadline, seeking one or two key reinforcements for their playoff push.

1. Milwaukee Brewers (59-40) - The Brewers concluded a series sweep and now share the top of the NL Central standings with the Cubs. Their contributions from unexpected players highlight their well-rounded approach, and they face the Cubs next in a pivotal series.