What happened: MLB.com published a rundown of five key storylines shaping the approaching trade deadline. The piece digs into the questions front offices are weighing as contenders and sellers sort out their plans. It frames the major decision points expected to drive deadline activity.

Why it matters: The trade deadline is a pivotal moment that can reshape a pennant race, with contenders chasing reinforcements and sellers weighing their futures. How clubs navigate these hot topics will help define which teams position themselves for a postseason push.

What to watch: Watch for which of these storylines turn into actual deals as the deadline nears and front offices move from speculation to action.