Major League Baseball’s July 31 trade deadline is fast approaching, with teams now assessing their positions as buyers, sellers, or stuck in limbo. Buyers are teams vying to enhance their chances of success, while sellers are those looking to offload veteran players for prospects. The latest standings highlight where each of the 30 MLB teams stands in preparation for the trading season.

Obvious Buyers:

• Boston Red Sox: After a rough start post-Rafael Devers trade, a strong July has positioned them as buyers, needing pitching help.
• Chicago Cubs: Currently in contention for the playoffs, they require additional pitching after injuries and could seek an upgrade at third base.
• Detroit Tigers: Leading in the standings, they need some minor improvements without major adjustments required.
• Houston Astros: Despite injuries, they enjoy a strong lead in the AL West, looking to strengthen their lineup further.
• Los Angeles Dodgers: Expect significant moves as they aim to defend their title, possibly beefing up their rotation and infield.
• New York Mets: Actively pursuing reinforcements, particularly pitching to maintain their competitive edge.
• New York Yankees: Looking for third base improvements to sustain their championship ambitions.
• Philadelphia Phillies: Seeking bullpen reinforcements as they look to finalize their roster for postseason.
• San Diego Padres: Must balance future aspirations with current quality while fortifying their roster.
• San Francisco Giants: Continuously looking for depth and the right pieces to maintain their playoff hopes.
• Seattle Mariners: Once playoff contenders, they currently occupy a wild card spot, looking for further support.
• Toronto Blue Jays: Building on their early success, they need to shore up their rotation as they lead the AL East.

Probable Buyers:

• Cincinnati Reds: Should be in the market, bolstering their playoff chances and potential.
• Los Angeles Angels: Aiming to strengthen their roster, possibly snagging long-term pieces for their future.
• Milwaukee Brewers: Having outperformed expectations, looking to enhance the team with crucial upgrades.
• Tampa Bay Rays: Keeping an eye on low-cost options looking to optimize their playoff chances.
• Texas Rangers: Just shy of a .500 record, with a solid run differential, emphasizing a potential buy.

Somewhere in the Middle: Teams like the Cleveland Guardians, Kansas City Royals, and Minnesota Twins are in positions to make improving moves while still navigating their respective standings.

Probable Sellers: The Arizona Diamondbacks, Atlanta Braves, Baltimore Orioles, St. Louis Cardinals, and others are expected to pivot towards evaluating sellable assets as they plan for retooling.

Overall, expect a busy trade period as teams grapple with their needs and opportunities leading up to the July 31 deadline.