What happened: The 2026 deadline falls later than the traditional July 31 date. MLB can schedule the cutoff between July 28 and Aug. 3.

Why it matters: August waiver trades were eliminated in 2019, leaving clubs one final window to reshape their 40-man rosters. Contenders and sellers must settle their plans before Monday evening.

What to watch: Watch for completed deals and late changes in club strategy before the market closes.