With the August 3 trade deadline just days away, MLB teams are gearing up for potential blockbuster moves. The Connelly-Early-for-Curtis-Mead trade stands out as the summer's most significant transaction so far, but expect more action as the deadline approaches.

Bryce Harper, the star of the Philadelphia Phillies, expressed his desire for reinforcements after the team’s disappointing 1-0 loss to the Miami Marlins on Tuesday. Harper stated, "I think we need some help. But you know, I think we've proved pretty much all year we've done a pretty good job. But anytime you can get some help in here and reinforcements, I think it helps." The Phillies have struggled post-All-Star break with a record of 3-8, needing a right-handed outfielder and a third base upgrade to bolster their lineup as they cling to a two-game lead for a wild-card spot.

In other news, multiple teams, including the Diamondbacks, Rays, Red Sox, and White Sox, scouted Clay Holmes during his rehab start. Holmes, who threw four scoreless innings, is likely to decline his $12 million player option and enter free agency, making him an attractive rental for contenders.

The Minnesota Twins are shifting gears and preparing to buy at the trade deadline, according to GM Jeremy Zoll. After a recent 3-2 walk-off win against the Kansas City Royals, Zoll confirmed, "All along, we were optimistic we were going to be in this spot to be able to add."

The Miami Marlins are open to trading first baseman/catcher Liam Hicks as rookie Joe Mack emerges as a standout player. The Marlins are looking for controllable players in return, with six teams actively seeking catching help.

Despite being in the wild-card race, the St. Louis Cardinals are expected to stick to their long-term plans, likely moving rental pitchers Dustin May and Ryne Stanek while seeking players with control beyond this season.