What happened: MLB.com published a breakdown of five key storylines shaping the approach to the Aug. 3 trade deadline. The piece frames the central questions facing contenders and sellers as the regular season passes its midpoint.

Why it matters: The deadline is the season's biggest roster-shaping event, and the topics raised set the terms for how front offices weigh buying, selling, or standing pat. With clubs still sorting their playoff odds, these storylines preview the negotiations that will define contention down the stretch.

What to watch: Watch for how the named storylines develop as teams clarify their buyer-or-seller status in the weeks before Aug. 3.