MLB Trade Deadline Preview: American League East

Heading into yesterday’s action, only 6.5 games separated the American League East. That could lead to a very interesting MLB trade deadline this year.

The MLB Trade Deadline is an exciting time of year. Fans of contending teams hope for that one player that could put their team over the top, leading to a World Series victory in just a few months. For those fans whose teams are struggling, the trade deadline has the promise of better days, with top prospects being acquired in the hope that they will be a part of the next successful run.

In the American League East, where four teams were .500 or better heading into yesterday’s action, a trade could make a dramatic difference. The Yankees, Red Sox, and Orioles all entertained postseason dreams heading into the season, and the surprising Rays have continued to stay around .500 despite their injury issues. Even the Blue Jays, which have been a disappointment thus far, have displayed signs of life lately, clawing back to within striking distance.

But what are the biggest holes on each team? Let us take a look through the American League East and see those areas where they could look to upgrade for the stretch run. Every one of these teams have gaping holes that could prove fatal to their playoff goals.

Here are the main areas that each of these teams could look to address at the MLB trade deadline.