Though the possibility of waiver-wire deals in August rob MLB’s July 31 trade deadline of some of its importance, it stands nonetheless as an important benchmark for clubs to indicate the extent of their designs on postseason contention. As the 2015 deadline approaches, teams like the Cincinnati Reds appear certain to sell off compelling assets like right-handed free-agent-to-be Johnny Cueto, and a host of intriguing names have been mentioned in trade rumors already.
Here’s a look at six clubs — one in each division — with a clear need for an upgrade at the July 31 trade deadline:
Los Angeles Angels: A left-handed bat
The Angels enter play Tuesday with a one-game lead over the upstart Houston Astros in the AL West thanks in part to an offense carried by Mike Trout and Albert Pujols — baseball’s best and most accomplished right-handed bats, respectively.