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↔️ What’s a soccer transfer anyway?

Stretching: MLB, WNBA entering final stagesMichael Reaves / Getty ImagesIf I’ve learned anything in my five years on this job, the sports calendar — maybe save for a week or two in July — never truly slows. As we rightfully prepare for football’s ongoing debut, the MLB and WNBA seasons are reaching dramatic summits in what feels like the background. We will rectify that today. I want to start on the diamond, which is a bit more pressing at the moment. A quick overview of where we stand on playoff races with a month to play:

In the AL, every division is still up for grabs. The Rays (four games up on the Yankees), White Sox (three-game lead on the Guardians) and Astros (two-game lead on the Rangers) are your leaders. There are nine teams realistically in play for three wild-card spots, too. Plenty of play for.

In the NL, division leaders have a bit more cushion. Only the NL East really remains within reach, as Atlanta holds a 4 1/2-game lead on Philadelphia. Seven NL teams still have a logical chance at their three wild-card slots. Not as busy as the AL, but still interesting.