MLB Trade Rumors and 2026 Trade Deadline News July 21

With the August 3 trade deadline approaching, the Boston Red Sox are shifting from sellers to potential buyers following a successful 14-game winning streak. The team is currently scouting for reinforcements at second base and catcher to bolster their roster for the stretch run.
Why it matters
This analysis highlights the rapid shifts in team strategy that define the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball during the mid-season trade period.
The Aug. 3 Trade Deadline is less than two weeks away, and it may not be long before the dominoes start falling.
Trades and Transactions presented by CohnReznick • 2026 Trade Deadline: Aug. 3, 6 p.m. ET • Latest trade buzz and rumors • Tracking every trade
Here's a look at some of the latest topics swirling in the rumor mill, including the Red Sox’s ongoing surge, the Orioles' willingness to deal Adley Rutschman , the Blue Jays’ continued struggles and more.
The Red Sox looked like guaranteed sellers not long ago, but a 14-game winning streak -- and a 19-2 record in their past 21 games -- has turned them into probable buyers. The extent of that buying spree is an open question, though there's a reasonable argument they should be aggressive.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in