As Major League Baseball’s trade deadline approaches, several teams remain active in positioning themselves for potential playoff runs or rebuilding efforts. The National League and American League playoff races continue to tighten, with a mix of contenders and long shots weighing their options ahead of Monday’s cutoff.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have surged into the second National League wild-card spot with a 13-5 run, improving their record to 58-52. The team hopes to reinforce its pitching staff with returning players like Corbin Burnes and potentially bolster the roster further before the deadline, aiming to return to the playoffs following last year's surprise World Series appearance.

Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper recently suggested the team needs additional support, possibly reflecting internal frustration as the Phillies have fallen into an eight-loss stretch over nine games. Executive Dave Dombrowski faces pressure to address multiple lineup weaknesses, though tough decisions remain on whether to prioritize top pitching acquisitions like Michael Kopech or other positional needs.

The Houston Astros have climbed above .500 for the first time since early April, sitting atop the AL West with a 56-55 record. After a rocky start to the season, the Astros are looking to reinforce their roster and provide their veteran core with a strong push toward the postseason.

Cleveland Guardians (56-55) are experiencing a largely quiet stretch despite remaining in the playoff discussion. The team is focused on reviving the form of José Ramírez, who has struggled since returning from the injured list.

San Diego Padres have sparked hope with six wins in their last seven games and sit just 1½ games outside a wild-card berth. General manager A.J. Preller’s unpredictable approach offers a wide array of possibilities, including the potential trade of a top reliever or bolstering the starting rotation.

In Pittsburgh, reigning Cy Young winner Paul Skenes is under the microscope after back-to-back subpar outings raised his ERA to 3.90. The Pirates, at 55-56, remain in the playoff hunt, but a late-season surge likely depends on Skenes returning to form.

Among other teams on the playoff bubble, the Minnesota Twins (56-55) have defied expectations by maintaining a competitive position in the AL wild-card race while adding bullpen depth. The Miami Marlins, following a 12-game losing streak, have closed the gap to within striking distance of the postseason and face a critical decision about whether to buy or sell.

The Washington Nationals made a notable trade, acquiring pitcher Connelly Early for prospect Curtis Mead, signaling a hybrid approach to balancing near-term relevance with future planning. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles’ recent comeback win was followed by trading pitcher Dean Kremer to the Twins, illustrating the conflicting strategies even for teams still in contention.

Some teams appear set to sell assets as the deadline nears. The St. Louis Cardinals, after a 3-11 slide, are leaning toward a rebuilding phase. Similarly, the Detroit Tigers have not finalized talks on trading Michael Kopech despite expectations he will be moved.

Struggling teams such as the New York Mets and San Francisco Giants continue to evaluate their options, with the Giants shedding payroll after an injury ended outfielder Harrison Bader’s season. The Angels, under interim GM John Mozeliak, are poised to accelerate their rebuild and could be active sellers.

Overall, as teams face the final days before the trade deadline, the balance between buying to contend and selling to rebuild remains delicate, with many front offices navigating cautious strategies based on their playoff viability and long-term goals.