MLB Executives Face Intense Pressure at Trade Deadline

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, several general managers are under significant pressure to make pivotal moves that could define their teams' seasons. Kansas City Royals GM J.J. Picollo faces intense scrutiny to turn around a struggling team that is currently under .500, with key players like Seth Lugo potentially leaving in free agency. Chicago Cubs president Jed Hoyer is expected to bolster an already strong offense by adding quality starting pitching to ensure a deep postseason run. Baltimore Orioles GM Mike Elias is likely to become a seller, moving veterans to rebuild after disappointing results despite previous successes. Philadelphia Phillies president Dave Dombrowski also faces pressure to strengthen an aging core, particularly the bullpen, to capitalize on the team's current playoff window. Additionally, Arizona Diamondbacks GM Mike Hazen is balancing whether to buy or sell as the team vies for a wild card spot, highlighting the high stakes across multiple organizations this trade season.