Something’s missing.
Sometimes you can put your finger on it, other times it’s more subtle. Regardless of the cause, it becomes obvious that your team needs a change. During the season, attempts may be made to fix the issue by recalling players from the minors, making a waiver claim, or taking a chance on an unsigned player.
More often, change comes via the trade route. Once preseason expectations morph into harsh reality, general managers are left to supplement their roster by either betting that their team is a piece or two away from contention or waving the white flag and looking towards the future.