One reason for not waiting until the actual deadline, except for playing poker with the other GM, is that I believe MLB players have 3 days to report after a trade. If a team is buying to fill a need, then that is 3 more games the desired player is not available. Many of these WC potential teams will finish the year wishing they had won 1 or 2 or 3 more games earlier. Fortunately the Sox won't be among them, so we can be patient with our pickups , if any.