NL Central Watch: July 1

Here’s a quick glance at what’s happening around the National League Central.

A year after a surprising World Series run, the Rockies are primed to be sellers before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, and the Cardinals reportedly have their sights set on outfielder Matt Holliday and left-handed reliever Brian Fuentes, who would be a nice fit in the Cubs bullpen. Meanwhile, Mark Mulders comeback featured some ninth-inning duty out of the bullpen.

Old pal Buster Olney at ESPN says the Brewers are the frontrunners in the C.C. Sabathia sweepstakes, which made general manager Doug Melvin smile. But Melvin figures to be active before the deadline, saying: We lost the division by two games last year. One player could make the difference in two or three games.

The Astros have been a remarkable second-half team in recent seasons and some in Houston believe they are primed for another late run. Their victory Monday came at the expense of an injury scare with ace Roy Oswalt.

Check back later for updates.