Sports Editor Orrin Schwarz looks at the week ahead

Monday

Major League Baseball trade deadline, 5 p.m.

The White Sox made a big splash Saturday night for pitcher Luis Castillo, and the Cubs are looking to wheel and deal also. Some of the drama is gone now that Tigers superstar Tarik Skubal is headed to L.A. in another Saturday night deal. Will the Dodgers swoop in and snatch more of the best players? It’s going to be a dramatic deadline day locally, especially with both Chicago teams on track for the playoffs.

Wednesday

High school football practice begins

That’s right, Wednesday is the first day of football practice already. It’s coming early this year because of the expanded IHSA playoffs. The first Friday night games are Aug. 20, and the playoffs start Oct. 23-24. And if you’re wondering about other IHSA sports, well golf season opens Aug. 10, with the first contests Aug. 13. Here we go.

Thursday

NFL Hall of Fame game, 7 p.m., NBC

If high school football practice is beginning, it just makes sense that the first NFL exhibition is going to be played too. This year it’s the Panthers vs. the Cardinals. (Enshrinement is Saturday for Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald, Roger Craig, Luke Kuechly and Adam Vinatieri.) And don’t worry Bears fans, the pride and joy of Illinois opens the preseason at Soldier Field vs. the Browns on Aug. 15.

Saturday

Fever at Sky, 2:30 p.m., ABC

Let’s be honest here, this game isn’t as big a deal since the Sky traded away Angel Reese. Her rivalry with Caitlin Clark dating back to their college days made this matchup much more interesting. And with the Sky record 11-18, it’s not looking like a team worthy of national TV. But Clark still attracts crowds and viewers, and this game is at the United Center. Maybe the Sky can surprise the Fever (19-10).

Saturday

Guardians at White Sox, 6:15 p.m., Fox

When was the last time the Sox were featured on national TV? This is a big game for these American League Central Division rivals. The Sox lead the division, and the Guardians (as well as the Twins) are close behind. The Guardians have been struggling lately, though. And if the game itself doesn’t attract you, it’s Ozzie Guillen jersey retirement night. Congratulations to No. 13.