Five areas of focus for the Diamondbacks in the second half

With the Diamondbacks long since out of contention, their big-picture focus in the second half has to be on longer-term goals, developments that might provide some hope or clarity for 2022 and beyond.

Here are five things to monitor the rest of the way as the Diamondbacks play out their schedule.

1. Finding value at the deadline

It is important to remember that the trade deadline isn’t what it used to be. Teams aren’t as willing to part with prospects, particularly well-regarded prospects, in exchange for rentals. And since it sounds like the Diamondbacks don’t want to entirely dismantle their roster, the most likely players to be moved this month are those on expiring deals. Think Eduardo…