What happened: With the MLB trade deadline approaching, attention turns to where the San Francisco Giants stand and which direction they may take. The club enters the stretch at 35-48, leaving the front office to weigh whether to add, hold, or sell off pieces. San Francisco is coming off a two-game winning streak.

Why it matters: The Giants' sub-.500 record puts them on the margins of contention, raising the stakes on every deadline decision about veterans and roster depth. How the team chooses to operate could shape both the rest of this season and its outlook heading into next year. A seller's posture would signal a pivot, while standing pat keeps a thin margin alive.

What to watch: Watch how the Giants perform against Arizona and how their standing shifts as the deadline draws closer, which will clarify whether the front office buys or sells.