St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley "is one of the most popular trade targets" ahead of the MLB trade deadline, according to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand.

To set the stage for the sprint to the deadline, here's a primer based on what I'm hearing from front office executives across the league.

The Miami Marlins are reportedly getting more trade interest for their ace, Sandy Alcántara. The Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers make sense as fits.

The Cleveland Guardians are reportedly "fielding big interest" in All-Star outfielder Steven Kwan ahead of Thursday's MLB trade deadline, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

Ryan Helsley is one of the most popular trade targets with no less than a half-dozen teams interested to varying degrees. Among the suitors, per sources, are the Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, Phillies, Rangers and Blue Jays.

Major League Baseball's trade deadline will pass at 6 p.m. ET on July 31, leaving teams with just over two days to complete their summer shopping. Some clubs have already been active swappers: the Yankees have obtained two infielders (Ryan McMahon and Amed Rosario),