Breaking Down The August Deadlines

And so we turn another leaf: As an insane non-waiver deadline has passed, all eyes are focused on the August 31st waiver deadline. Be sure to check out our detailed post on the logistics of August trades.

Many analysts have noted that teams' financial concerns could mean this upcoming deadline is far more active than previous years, as trades this time of year often involve the unloading of fat contracts. If yesterday was any indication, we could be in for some solid action.

Lest we forget, August 17th is the other major deadline–the last day teams are given to negotiate contracts with their 2009 draft picks. Many top picks remain unsigned, including Stephen Strasburg, so you can expect some Boras drama to kick into high gear.

Here are some fairly significant trades we saw go down before August 31st last season:

• The Diamondbacks made an August playoff push, acquiring Adam Dunn and David Eckstein.
• The Phillies acquired Matt Stairs from the Blue Jays, which led to the creation of a pretty awesome t-shirt. They also picked up lefty Scott Eyre.
• The Dodgers picked up Greg Maddux from their divisional-rival Padres.
• The Red Sox improved their depth with acquisitions of Mark Kotsay and Paul Byrd.
• The Rays acquired Chad Bradford from the Orioles.