What happened: The Baltimore Orioles are expecting increased offensive output from Colton Cowser and Dylan Beavers as the trade deadline approaches. General manager Mike Elias must decide whether the 42-50 club will operate as buyers or sellers by the end of July.
Why it matters: The development of both outfielders is critical for a roster currently sitting eight games under .500. While Taylor Ward has provided stability since arriving from the Los Angeles Angels, the front office requires more consistent at-bats from its drafted talent to offset an infield missing Jordan Westburg.
By the numbers: Cowser holds a .317 on-base percentage after hitting eight home runs between May and June to recover from a slow start. Beavers recently returned from a mid-May oblique strain and has posted an 86 OPS+ this year, down from the 119 OPS+ he recorded across 35 games last fall.
What to watch: Baltimore will monitor its lineup performance through the rest of the month before finalizing a deadline strategy. Ward could become a trade candidate if the organization decides to sell.