What happened: The MLB trade deadline rumor cycle is intensifying around three clubs in particular. The Los Angeles Angels are working through a front-office shakeup, the Boston Red Sox are being framed as potential sellers, and the Toronto Blue Jays are trying to steady a sliding season as the deadline approaches.
Why it matters: How these three teams act could shape the broader market. A selling posture in Boston would put established talent in play, while the Angels' front-office change adds uncertainty to how Anaheim approaches the deadline. Toronto's recent form raises the question of whether the Blue Jays buy or step back.
By the numbers: Toronto enters the stretch at 39-45 on the season, mired in a six-game losing streak while averaging 4.1 runs scored and allowing 4.5 per game.
What to watch: Watch how each front office signals its direction as the deadline nears, with the Angels' approach and Boston's willingness to sell the storylines to track.