The MLB trade deadline landscape has evolved significantly since the playoff expansion in 2022, with 22 out of 30 teams still in contention this late in the season. The increase in playoff spots has made it challenging for teams to decide whether to sell players, as their chances of making the postseason remain viable. While historically the final days before the deadline saw numerous trades, the trend has shifted towards fewer blockbuster moves, leading to a more conservative trade market.

In the last three years since the playoff format change, the number of trades leading up to the deadline has remained relatively stable, with 39 trades in 2022, 35 in 2023, and 46 in the previous year. However, the quality of trades has diminished, with fewer star players changing teams. The upcoming deadline will largely depend on teams like the Arizona Diamondbacks, who are on the cusp of contention and have assets like Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly that could impact the trade landscape.