Guys, help me out with this one. If MLB issue a July 31st trade deadline; hint the word "deadline", why is there still trade activity going on well after the deadline? Or is this to benefit teams like the Yankees who continue to buy players to increase their chances of winning a World Series?
There are actually 0 real deadlines. Before July 31, trades can be made with no restrictions. After July 31, trades can be made but only if the player has cleared waivers. It is quite common for players to clear waivers and many players in the majors gets put on waivers during this time (they can be recalled if claimed). A player HAS to be on your 25 man roster on 08/31 in order to participate in any playoff games. There are some exceptions if the player is also on your 40 man roster prior to 09/01. July 31 is treated as a deadline for "non-waiver" trades. August 31 is treated as a deadline for the player to be able to play for your team in the playoffs.
