In MLB news, as the trade deadline looms closer, several teams find themselves facing the reality of becoming sellers in the market. Teams that were once hopeful contenders are now grappling with their fading playoff odds. Let's take a closer look at four teams that are on the brink of accepting their fate.

The Chicago Cubs, with a record of 40-48, are currently six games back in the wild-card race. Despite a surprise offensive outburst in their recent game against the Phillies, the Cubs' run differential of -26 raises concerns about their chances of contention. Speculation is swirling about the team potentially parting ways with players like Cody Bellinger, although his player options might complicate matters. The Cubs may also consider making more of their controllable assets available.

The Texas Rangers, the defending World Series champions, have struggled this season with a record of 39-48 and a run differential of -7. Despite being just 8.5 games back in the wild-card race, their offense has significantly declined from last season. With trade options including starters like Michael Lorenzen and relievers like Kirby Yates, the Rangers' ownership, who is currently $12 million over the first luxury-tax threshold, may be motivated to sell. There is even speculation about the possibility of Max Scherzer becoming available, with the Mets potentially paying a significant portion of his salary.

The Detroit Tigers, with a record of 39-48 and a run differential of -26, have been trending in the wrong direction all season. With three other AL Central teams emerging as contenders, the Tigers' chances of making a significant playoff push seem slim. In their search for offensive reinforcements, the Tigers may need to think creatively and explore options beyond parting with potential free agents.

The Toronto Blue Jays, with a record of 39-48 and a run differential of -61, are facing similar struggles. Their run differential stands as the fourth-worst in the American League, highlighting their offensive woes. As the trade deadline approaches, it will be intriguing to see if the Blue Jays choose to make moves beyond trading their potential free agents. Building for the future should be a priority, and a simple "run it back" approach may not be sufficient.

Meanwhile, in other MLB news, discussions around the upcoming Baseball Hall of Fame inductions have captivated baseball enthusiasts. Notably, Jason Stark has divided the active players into tiers based on their potential Hall of Fame candidacy. Players like Aaron Judge, despite not yet having 1,000 hits, have displayed exceptional career statistics and achievements, potentially positioning themselves for future Hall of Fame consideration.

As the deadline nears, the NL Central race is heating up, with both the St. Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds making a case for postseason berths. The Cardinals, with a record of 45-41, have spent the majority of the season above .500, while fans eagerly speculate about potential additions to the team. Though both Nolan Arenado and Paul Goldschmidt are having career-worst years, their past achievements and potential for a comeback could solidify their Hall of Fame cases with a few more notable seasons.

As we approach the trade deadline, the landscape of MLB teams is quickly shifting. These four teams, among others, will face tough decisions about whether to sell and build for the future or hold onto hope for a late-season surge. It will certainly be an intriguing period for baseball fans and a crucial juncture for teams to strategize their next moves.