What happened: MLB insiders report that the Boston Red Sox are beginning to map out their trade timeline ahead of the deadline, according to a NESN aggregation of league reporting. The piece frames the club's plans as 'taking shape,' signaling that front-office direction is starting to firm up. No specific players or completed deals were attached to the report in the available signal.

Why it matters: How Boston positions itself — as a buyer, seller, or stand-pat club — shapes the roster, the standings race, and any tied to the team's outlook. A clarifying trade timeline gives players, rival front offices, an earlier read on whether reinforcements or a sell-off are coming.

What to watch: Watch for insiders to attach specific names or dates to the timeline, which would move it from speculation toward concrete deadline activity.