Overview

• With the July 31 deadline two days away, teams in the American League East and National League Central are primed to dictate the pace of the trade market.
• The Cleveland Guardians shifted into seller mode after closer Emmanuel Clase was placed on paid leave as part of an MLB sports betting investigation.
• Toronto is among the frontrunners for outfielder Steven Kwan, whose elite defense and two years of team control make him a coveted acquisition.
• The New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies have emerged as leading suitors for White Sox slugger Luis Robert Jr., despite his .205 batting average and injury concerns this season.
• Pitching demand is rising as the Yankees target rookie right-hander Cam Schlittler and the Cubs weigh a bid for returning Cy Young winner Shane Bieber following the Brewers’ early trade for Danny Jansen.