What happened: Teams are weighing potential additions and departures before the deadline. Buyers and sellers must navigate the league's revised labor structure when evaluating deals.
Why it matters: The new rules could affect contract values and the cost of reshaping a roster. Contenders and rebuilding clubs have a narrow window to determine whether an in-season move fits their plans.
By the numbers: The 2026 trade deadline is Sunday, Aug. 2, at 3 p.m. ET.
What to watch: Watch for completed deals and shifts in the market before Sunday's cutoff.