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MLB 2026 trade deadline: What NL contenders need to beat Dodgers - ESPN
Will the Brewers finally go big? Are the Braves all-in? Here's what to know about the other NL powerhouses' deadline plans.
✨ Key Highlights
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As MLB's August 3, 2026 trade deadline nears, the central question in the National League remains which contenders can challenge the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are cruising toward their 14th straight postseason appearance, tying Atlanta's 1991-2005 record.
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The Dodgers hold a 12-game lead over the second-place Arizona Diamondbacks in the NL West, while the top threats emerging from the All-Star break are the Milwaukee Brewers, Atlanta Braves, Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Phillies.
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Atlanta and Milwaukee lead their divisions, while Chicago and Philadelphia occupy the first and second wild-card spots, respectively, setting up strategic deadline decisions to close the gap on the reigning champions.
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The Phillies' primary needs include starting pitching, bullpen help and possibly a right-handed outfielder, with a strong top three of Zack Wheeler, Cristopher Sanchez and Jesus Luzardo but a thin rotation behind them.
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Aaron Nola has struggled with a 5.82 ERA, and neither Andrew Painter nor Alan Rangel secured the fifth-starter role, prompting Philadelphia to eye expiring-contract arms like Robbie Ray or Kevin Gausman who could serve as a No. 4 and start playoff games.
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Philadelphia also faces bullpen concerns following Brad Keller's injury and questions about its offense against left-handed pitching, though the team has improved against lefties this month, ranking mid-pack in OPS.