Second Half Preview

What to watch, starting with an intriguing trade market

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The Trade Talk Blog

Who's going? The Mariners' Erik Bedard (right)? C.C. Sabathia of Cleveland? From now through the July 31 nonwaiver trade deadline, stay up-to-date with the latest rumors—and, of course, the actual deals—from around the majors. SPORTS ILLUSTRATED senior writer Jon Heyman will weigh in regularly with exclusive information from scouts, general managers and other front-office personnel throughout the month.

How Far Can They Go?

Last year Baseball Prospectus's Nate Silver predicted that the White Sox would finish 72--90, an 18-win drop-off from 2006. Chicago finished 72--90. In March, his PECOTA system forecast an 88--74 record for the Rays, a 22-win leap. Through Sunday, Tampa Bay was on a 98--64 pace. Silver breaks down the success of B.J. Upton (right) and the Rays.

And Much, Much More

Senior writer Tom Verducci hands out his midseason awards. Albert Chen examines whether the Cubs have what it takes to end their 100-year title drought. Plus, a photo gallery of the first half's most memorable moments, the midseason power rankings and a detailed scouting report of Chase Utley (right), who has a chance to be the Phillies' third different MVP in three years.