What happened: The Atlanta Braves reinstated left-hander Martin Perez from the injured list and optioned right-hander JR Ritchie to Triple-A. The front office is also evaluating the starting pitching market as the trade deadline approaches.

Why it matters: Adding a playoff-caliber arm is a priority to avoid relying on depth pieces like Bryce Elder and Owen Murphy in October. In other league developments, the Kansas City Royals acquired Nate Pearson from the Houston Astros, and Boston Red Sox starter Garrett Crochet hopes to return from injury for the postseason.

What to watch: Atlanta's front office continues to adhere strictly to internal value judgments during ongoing trade negotiations.