The San Francisco Giants face the San Diego Padres with pitcher Robbie Ray expected to make what could be his final start for the club before the trade deadline. The game matters because it may signal the Giants’ willingness to sell players after a disappointing season, while the Padres are still weighing whether to strengthen or reduce their squad.

With the deadline only days away and August approaching, teams are beginning to separate into realistic play-off contenders and sides planning for next season. The Giants are portrayed as likely sellers after little has gone as hoped, whereas the Padres’ direction remains less certain as they assess their prospects.