Teams evaluate trade options as MLB playoff race tightens

As the MLB season approaches the August 3 trade deadline, 23 of 30 teams are within four games of playoff berths. The Philadelphia Phillies begin the second half by facing the New York Mets, hoping to solidify their postseason contention. Key trade candidates include Tarik Skubal, who has returned from injury, and other players like Joe Ryan and Freddy Peralta. The Detroit Tigers, currently trailing for a Wild Card spot, will determine their trade strategy based on their performance leading up to the deadline. The Red Sox, after a strong turnaround, may also consider moves for closer Aroldis Chapman and starter Sonny Gray if they falter in the next few weeks.

• 6:18 AMYahoo Sports — Expanded playoffs make it hard to predict whether Skubal, Chapman, Gray get dealt