With the All-Star Break here, much of the baseball world has a bit of time away from the diamond. However, there are still some games going on in the minors. And for the Braves, that meant the return to action for Ronald Acuna Jr. and Ha-Seong Kim.
Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ha-Seong Kim today begin rehabilitation assignments with the FCL Braves.
Both Kim and Acuna Jr. had multiple at-bats on the day, and Kim hit a home run in his first plate appearance. While the results will hopefully come for Acuna Jr., it was just great to have him back in action. His return should be a big boost for a Braves team looking to make winning a habit once again.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JULY 12: Dave Roberts #30 of the Los Angeles Dodgers greets, from left, Shohei Ohtani #17, Freddie Freeman #5, Max Muncy #13, Andy Pages #44, Yoshinobu Yamamoto #18, and Justin Wrobleski #70 before a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium on July 12, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ryan Sirius Sun/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Five Dodgers are in Philadelphia for the All-Star game on Tuesday, two of them first timers in Andy Pages and Justin Wrobleski.
Sonja Chen of MLB.com covers why it should be Pages’ second All-Star nod.
“It should be his second. I think he should have had it last year,” said Freddie Freeman, who will be in the NL’s starting lineup alongside Pages at his 10th All-Star Game. “Andy has been great for a couple years now. So I’m glad he’s getting the recognition. I’m glad the fans are gonna get to see him in Philadelphia.”
Last year, the Dodgers centerfielder was one of three finalists for the fan vote to make the Midsummer Classic. He was not chosen by the fans, nor was he added as a replacement. Did that give him motivation to make it this season?
“I think it did affect me,” Pages said through interpreter Juan Dorado. “But obviously, coming into this year I’m trying to focus on the things that I can control, the things that I need to do, and kind of learn from what happened last year and put myself in a better spot this year.”
Andy didn’t talk much about it, but focused on being better and getting to the All-Star team, in addition to being better overall for the team. While he’s had his ups and downs, he’s proud of the work he’s put in that has resulted in him being the starting centerfielder for the National League.
“This is one of those things that … you feel proud of all the work you’ve done,” Pages said in Spanish. “It’s doing those little things that you think can make you better, keeping working and trying to do the best every day.”
Max Muncy is on his third All-Star team, but it’s been five years since his last appearance, and he’s had to work through some significant injuries in the meantime.
“It’s coming back from injuries, finding ways to stay healthy – regaining form I guess you’d call it,” Muncy said. “Just getting back to the player that I had been for several years before I started getting hurt. For me, it’s just a recognition of that.”
This time around, Muncy is very much looking forward to the family aspect of it, and for his kids to experience this with their dad.
Over the offseason, Muncy put a lot of effort into making sure his body was in the best shape for this season, knowing that being the Dodgers’ third baseman was his only path to staying on the team which whom he hopes to retire.
“The reality of the situation was if I want to continue being a Dodger I had to learn to play third base. There really is no ifs ands or butts about that. I had to get better.”
His offseason work has paid off, as Muncy leads all NL third basemen in slugging and OPS, and is tied for second in home runs with 17. He’s ranked third among third basemen in defensive runs saved, even with his two errors in his last two games.
“For me, it was never about getting the money. It was always about getting the opportunity to win,” he said. “That was the thing for me. If I’m going to play this game that I love, the reason I love it is because I love to compete, I want to be in the best spot to compete to win and there’s no better spot than here. That was always the deciding factor in those decisions. That’s why it’s always been a no-brainer for me. The money didn’t really matter. It’s the chance to compete and win and I get that every day here.
Bill Plunkett of the OC Register covers more of Muncy and manager Dave Roberts’ thoughts on his season and what he means to the team here.
Utah Jazz guard Trey Alexander was taken off the court on a stretcher after collapsing on the floor during an NBA Summer League game on Monday, July 13, against the Chicago Bulls.
Alexander collided with the Bulls' Caleb Wilson, drawing a foul on his drive to the basket. After the play ended, Alexander dropped to the ground clutching his side and appeared to be in substantial pain.
The G-league rookie of the year in 2024-25, Alexander just signed a two-way deal with Utah last week. The team did not provide any update on his condition, according to the Associated Press.
Alexander, 23, skipped his final season at Creighton to turn pro. He has played a total of 33 games in the NBA over the past two seasons with the Denver Nuggets and New Orleans Pelicans.
It should be noted that players are listed with the Teams they were with on June 16, so techincally Tobias Harris is listed with the Pistons, but his addition to the Spurs in the upcoming season gives the Silver& Black eight players, the most for any team.
Victor Wembanyama is #2 on the list, just behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. SGA was the league MVP and Cluth POTY lewading his team to 64 wins. Wemby was runner-up for MVP and the DPOY and bested OKC in the Western Conference Finals on his way to the NBA Finals. Something tells me these could be reversed next season.
Stephon Castle at #26 is described as wrecking ball defender. His placement feels right given the surrounding players.
Dylan Harper and De’Aaron Fox are #45 and #46 respectively. Looks like the authors — Bill Simmons, Zach Lowe, Danny Chau, Kirk Goldsberry, Rob Mahoney, Michael Pina, and Justin Verrier — didn’t want to pick a favorite given the “who should come start and who should come off the bench” discussions swirling after the the Finals. Alas, they couldn’t tie, so they gave Harper a small edge.
Vassell is such an overlooked player at times. Given the manpower in that starting line-up, it’s easy to focus on their last three years of draft picks and shuffle Vassell back. Good to see the writers acknowledge his greatness.
Having Julian Champagnie and Keldon Joshnon at #98 and #99 feels like a 1-2 punch to close out the Spurs on the list. All seven of the Spurs double-figure scorers made the list. All five starters (at the end of the season) were on the list. And Harris’ inclusion makes the Spurs the team with the most going inot next season.
Noteable non-Spurs.
At age 38, Stephen Curry is still in the Top 10.
Call it sour grapes (and the fact that I mainly only watch Spurs games) buy Karl-Anthony Towns at #12 felt too high. I’ll have to revisot his regular season stats, but the Knicks biog man was non-factor in their close out Championship Game 5 and scored only 5 measly points in all five 4th quarters during the Finals. Is he really the fourth best big in the game?
Ex-Spurs guard Dejounte Murray came in ay #89. I didn’t even know he was still playing. Thought injuries had sidelined him.
Memphis and Sacramento had no players on the list while Chicago, Dallas, and Brooklyn had one apiece.
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LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 10: Khaman Maluach #10 of the Phoenix Suns looks to pass the ball during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers on July 10, 2026 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Greathouse/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
There’s one hard and fast rule when it comes to evaluating player performance at NBA Summer League: it’s only okay to overreact if it strengthens your pre-existing beliefs and narratives. There are worse ways to spend one’s time in Las Vegas than searching for confirmation bias on the frantic courts of summer league.
In reality, the only universally agreed upon summer league truth is that it’s a very bad sign if second and third-year players are struggling as former first-round picks. For everyone else, what happens in Vegas should be taken with a grain of salt yet enjoyed to its fullest because it’s awesome to have NBA basketball back in July even if it’s only JV teams duking it out for a couple weeks.
Summer league is mostly about watching the NBA’s recent draft picks, but it’s always nice when young veterans show they might be taking a leap for the upcoming season. A year ago, Ajay Mitchell was on my too good for summer league list and then proceeded to have a breakout year for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Here are the players who look too good to be in Las Vegas this summer.
Will Riley, G, Washington Wizards
Riley measured above 6’8 barefoot at the combine ahead of the 2025 draft, and he’s reportedly gotten even taller since then. Now standing around 6’10, the 20-year-old wing showed off his deep bag of scoring moves with fearless takes to the rim, spot-up threes, and solid rebounding for his position in Las Vegas. Riley is really slippery off the bounce to beat the first line of the defense, and his long strides and extension finishes help him finish at the basket even with his thin frame. His shooting tends to run hot-and-cold, but he has real utility in his three-point shot both off the dribble and on spot-ups, and there’s no doubt he has NBA range on his jumper. Riley is just a really fluid athlete for his size with real shooting upside, and he has the awareness to relocate off the ball to put himself in a better position to score. There are suddenly a lot of mouths to feed in Washington, but Riley seems like a walking bucket who is just starting to scratch his long-term upside.
Slawson was a 2023 NCAA tournament hero for helping lead Furman to a first-round upset over Virginia, which helped him get selected No. 54 overall by the Kings. He’s bounced around the G League in his first few years as a pro with only 13 NBA games under his belt, but he’s coming off an excellent season for Pacers’ G League affiliate. Slawson is proving he deserves a real shot at an NBA roster spot with a fantastic showing in summer league that has displayed his downhill athleticism and defensive playmaking as a 6’8 forward. He had five blocks in the SummerPacers’ Vegas opener in a win over the Cavs, then turned up the heat on offense by scoring 26 points on 8-of-16 shooting in Indiana’s next game against the 76ers. Slawson’s defense will have to be his calling card to earn a roster spot, and he has all the tools you need at that end with a strong frame, a near 7-foot wingspan, and good instincts to both play the passing lanes and rotate for supplemental rim protection. Offensively, he’s best when he has a clear lane to the basket as a cutter or in transition. The three-point shot remains his swing skill, but after making 34.5 percent from deep in the G League last year, it’s clear he’s making progress. This summer league run has been another step forward.
Egor Demin, G, Brooklyn Nets
It’s time I fill out an apology form on Egor Demin. Ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, I named Demin one of the most overrated prospects in the class, and gave the Nets a D for his selection at No. 8 overall in my instant grades. My main arguments against Demin were that I didn’t think he could score efficiently inside or outside the arc, and I didn’t think he had the frame to play through contact on either end. Well! Demin massively improved as a shooter as a rookie, going from 27 percent from three and 69 percent from the foul line in college to 38.5 percent from three and 83.1 percent on free throws as a rookie. A year in an NBA strength and conditioning program helped his body quite a bit too, and he continues to show the gains he’s made during summer league. Demin scored 20 or more points in all three of his summer league games this year on 61 percent true shooting. He looks improved attacking the basket off the bounce, and he’s showing he can hit the defensive glass, too. The Nets have done a really good job developing Demin’s frame, and it’s paying off on both ends. Demin deserves a lot of credit himself for putting in the work to improve his jumper. I’m happy to be wrong about this one because Demin is a cool player with a fun skill set who should be a nice piece in Brooklyn’s rebuild for a long time.
Beringer didn’t play much as a rookie after being the No. 17 overall pick in the 2025 draft, but he’s in line for a bigger role this season after the Timberwolves traded away Julius Randle. The 6’11 big man only needed one summer league game to show off his spectacular athleticism and skill set improvements that should have Minnesota fans very excited for his sophomore season. Beringer runs the floor incredibly well for a center, and he has crazy bounce when he gets near the rim. It feels like a lock that he’s going to have a few of the NBA’s most impressive dunks this season, but his shot-blocking will be just as valuable backing up Rudy Gobert. The most surprising thing about his summer league performance might be the development of his handle: he looked comfortable attacking off the dribble far away from the hoop, showing good footwork and enough ball control to get to the basket. The Wolves need some big bodies to help protect Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball this season, and Beringer is showing he can be a contributor.
Tre Johnson, G, Washington Wizards
The Wizards vs. Jazz opener in Las Vegas was hyped as the first meeting between A.J. Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson, but Johnson was the best player on the floor. The No. 6 overall pick from the 2025 draft showed what he could do in a high-usage role, splashing shots from deep, attacking off the dribble, and keeping constant pressure on the opposing defense with his gravity. Johnson’s ability to self-create threes off the dribble is going to be huge for his scoring utility as teams load up to stop Dybantsa, Trae Young, and Anthony Davis. If you crowd his dribble, Johnson has the quickness and the handle needed to beat his man to the cup and get the defense rotating. His playmaking and defense still needs some work, but he should take a step up after a decent rookie year in Washington.
Khaman Maluach, C, Phoenix Suns
Khaman Maluach's second straight double-double in Vegas
Maluach essentially got a redshirt in his rookie season in Phoenix, but the No. 10 pick in the 2025 draft seems poised for a breakthrough this year. The former Duke center is absolutely gigantic at nearly 7’1 barefoot, 252 pounds, with a nearly 7’7 wingspan and 9’6 standing reach, and he looked like a man amongst boys in summer league. It’s impossible to keep Maluach out of deep post position on offense, and all it takes is a quick turn to the basket for him to be in position to dunk the ball. His length is even more effective on the defensive end, and he looked quicker to the ball with his ground coverage in Las Vegas. The thing that makes Maluach really exciting is his potential to shoot threes, and he continues to take and make them in summer league. His hands and passing are still a question offensively, but Maluach is so big with a rapidly rising skill level that he still has tons of upside for the Suns even after a quiet rookie year.
Cedric Coward, F, Memphis Grizzlies
Coward solidified his meteoric rise from DIII to lottery pick in his first season in the NBA by earning All-Rookie First-Team honors. The No. 11 overall pick in the 2025 draft is a long (7’2 wingspan) and strong swingman who locks down on the defensive end, shoots an easy ball from three, and adds value as a rebounder. It would have been easy for Coward to skip summer league after such a strong rookie year as a soon-to-be 23-year-old, but instead there he was defending full court, crashing the glass, and trying to add new elements to his game with pull-up threes. Coward feels like the perfect connective tissue between Cameron Boozer and Zach Edey in the Memphis frontcourt, and these early reps playing with Boozer could help jumpstart their chemistry next season. Memphis’ rebuild already looks promising, and Coward is a big part of it.
Maxime Raynaud, C, Sacramento Kings
Raynaud might have been the best second-round pick of last year’s draft, going from the No. 42 overall selection to All-Rookie Second-Team honors for the Sacramento Kings. The Stanford product has a diverse offensive game with impressive post moves inside, an easy shooting stroke from three, and the ability to make plays for teammates in dribble-handoff actions. He should be a true stretch five in time, but he needs to up his volume from behind the arc, and that shouldn’t be a problem after he again showed off his deep touch in Las Vegas. The real questions for Raynaud come on the defensive end, where he’s just not a very strong rim protector. The Kings are going to need to find playmaking defensive wings to insulate Raynaud on that end of the floor, but his offensive game is good enough to demand minutes for a Sacramento team that continues to rebuild.
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 13: Koby Brea #14 of the Phoenix Suns dribbles the ball during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on July 13, 2026 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Greathouse/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
As the Phoenix Suns tipped off their third Summer League game against the Milwaukee Bucks, a rolling monsoon made its way into the Valley of the Sun. Dust, wind, rain, lightning, thunder. ’Twas the first big storm of the summer, and it coincided with the storm brewing on the court in Las Vegas.
For the first time this summer, the Suns looked cohesive and connected in the opening quarter, scoring 19 points after totaling only 22 first-quarter points in their first two games combined. From there, the aggression and pressure continued. And as I watched, I could feel the overreactions boiling inside of me.
Because how can you not be excited about how comfortable and mature Khaman Maluach looks? How can you not be impressed with the way rookie Koa Peat demands the ball and makes a beeline toward the cylinder? How can you not be thankful that Koby Brea was knocking down three pointers? How can you not be pleased with how Rasheer Fleming’s defensive acumen appears to have progressed?
When the regular season arrives, the minutes for these players will most likely dwindle. Players ahead of them on the depth chart will receive more opportunities, and that’s fine. That’s what makes what the Suns are doing right now so impressive. They have a deep roster with a talented starting five and legitimate position battles behind it.
The youth movement on display in Vegas felt as impressive and mighty as the storm rolling across the desert Monday night. And like the rain, sometimes you have to wait for it. This was the first measurable rain in 100 days. It might be a couple of years before these young players truly make their impact in Phoenix. But if they continue to progress, they’re going to force the organization’s hand. They’re going to force some decisions.
And that’s where the excitement lives. Not in Summer League wins or stat lines, but in the pressure these players can create within the organization. Development changes timelines. Competition changes rotations. Young players who demand opportunities eventually receive them. The Suns don’t need Maluach, Peat, Fleming, or Brea to arrive tomorrow. They need them to keep pushing. Keep progressing. Keep making the decisions ahead more difficult. Because when that happens, the forecast in Phoenix begins to change.
Summer Bright Side Baller Standings
Two games. Two Bright Side Baller awards for Khaman Maluach. And you know what? I wouldn’t want it any other way…
Virginia outfielder AJ Gracia (29) swings for the ball during an NCAA Baseball Regional game between Southern Miss and Virginia at Pete Taylor Park in Hattiesburg, Miss., on Saturday, May 30, 2026. | Ayrton Breckenridge/Clarion Ledger / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Virginia baseball was far from perfect in Chris Pollard’s first season, but one thing nobody could dispute was their quality top end talent. Five Wahoos were selected by pro organizations in the 2026 MLB Draft last weekend.
A.J. Gracia did not have to wait long to hear his name called, as the Atlanta Braves picked the two-time all-ACC outfielder ninth overall. Gracia becomes the sixth all-time Cavalier to go in the top ten, and the first since Pavin Smith (7th to the Arizona Diamondbacks) and Adam Haseley (8th to the Philadelphia Phillies) in 2017. Some scouts have been skeptical of Gracia’s long-term outlook defensively, but his bat was too good to resist.
Eric Becker was also selected on day one, joining fellow UVA alumni Andrew Abbott and Ethan O’Donnell in the Cincinnati Reds organization as a second round pick. Becker’s stock dropped slightly as a result of a “down” junior season in Charlottesville. Still, he finishes his college career with a .348 overall batting average and 1.048 OPS.
The third ‘Hoo off the board was sixth-round selection Kyle Johnson, who will more than likely specialize as a pitcher in the Tampa Bay Rays organization. Joe Tiroly, a seventh round selection by the San Diego Padres, and Tyler Kapa, the Miami Marlins’ 14th round pick, round out the list.
As far as committed high schoolers are concerned, call it a small victory for the UVA program. The only member of the 2026 recruiting class that will not make it to Grounds is, as expected, infielder Bo Lowrance, who went 40th overall to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Meanwhile, highly rated recruits such as RHP Wyatt Clatur, LHP Sean Loggie, and SS Will Yow (as confirmed earlier this offseason) all will join the Cavaliers roster for the 2027 season after going undrafted.
Grateful to have been part of Bo’s journey. The @Dodgers got a great player and a world class family! https://t.co/05TWxpC2p4
Catcher Jake Weatherspoon also did not hear his name called and may very well be returning next season. The JUCO transfer tallied ten multi-hit games and 13 extra base hits in 2026, slashing .272/.337/.429.
Elsewhere around the country, former Cavaliers pitchers Bryson Moore (Pittsburgh Pirates) and Evan Blanco (Athletics), as well as position players Henry Ford (Seattle Mariners) and Aidan Teel (Minnesota Twins) were all middle round draftees.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - JULY 12: Ike Irish #18 of the Baltimore Orioles looks on during batting practice prior to the 2026 All-Star Futures Game Presented by Nike at Citizens Bank Park on Sunday, July 12, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rob Tringali/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
This week marks the All-Star break for more than just the major league teams. The minor league affiliates are off for the next few days as well, never mind that the leagues themselves don’t put on All-Star Games any more, like they used to. For a variety of reasons, there probably wouldn’t be all that many Orioles prospect All-Stars this year anyway.
These weekly updates focus on the team’s top prospects, particularly those on Camden Chat’s composite top 20 Orioles prospect list from before the season. They also include other guys who interest me who might develop into prospects over time. I do not tend to spend much time on non-prospect journeymen.
Here’s how things went this week:
Triple-A Norfolk Tides
Last week’s results: 3-2 vs. Syracuse (Mets)
Second half record: 5-11, last place (8 GB) in International League East
Norfolk combines a bottom-half pitching staff with a worst-in-the-league offense in terms of runs scored per game. No wonder this team is a brutal 33-58. The roster is largely a collection of journeyman guys who ostensibly exist as depth for the MLB roster except, if this is how they’re playing at Triple-A, they barely even count for that.
This is particularly relevant in the wake of the injury suffered by Blaze Alexander in the final game before the MLB break. Do the Orioles have an infielder they can bring up from the minors? Well, maybe. He’s the kind of no-longer-prospect I don’t usually talk about in these articles, but there is Christian Encarnacion-Strand, already on the 40-man roster and with most of his games this year played at third base. Encarnacion-Strand batted 5-15 across this week’s games, including two doubles and two homers. He’s OPSing .863 for Norfolk, though that does come with a suboptimal OBP (.309).
With Creed Willems on the injured list, there’s one actual prospect getting at-bats for Norfolk. That is Enrique Bradfield Jr., who continues to put up batting numbers that are fine as long as you ignore what his lack of power portends against MLB pitching. He had three hits and two walks in five games, including one triple, plus a stolen base, giving him 16 steals in 39 games. No question the guy is fast. Big question whether a .670 OPS at Norfolk is enough.
For the pitchers, Nestor German tossed seven shutout innings this week, while allowing just four hits and a walk. He sits at a 4.11 ERA for the season, which isn’t that exciting on its face, but it is .8 runs below the league average. That’s the equivalent of an MLB starting pitcher having a 3.41 ERA. German is at nearly a 10 K/9 and nearly a 3 K/BB. Don’t write him off just for his ERA starting with a 4.
Others of interest
OF Heston Kjerstad – I always want him to be something. He batted 5-13 over four games played, giving him a .766 OPS in 45 games with the Tides. Probably not enough for another MLB look unless there are big league injuries.
LHP Andrew Magno – Two runs allowed in 2.1 innings this week, not great, but the season ERA of 1.04 remains interesting. Sometimes people ask “Why isn’t this guy on the MLB team?” and probably one big answer is he’s walked 20 batters in 34.2 innings.
Second half record: 10-7, t-second place (3.5 GB) in Eastern League Southwest
The Double-A team is not quite as bad off as Norfolk: Their offense isn’t the worst in their league. They are a bit below average, same as their pitching staff. I had higher hopes for the team. As an Orioles fan, I’m used to disappointment. The only defense against that is not getting excited in the first place.
I’m obligated to lead with my guy Aron Estrada, even when the news is bad. The infielder had four hits in 22 at-bats this week, and drew only one walk, so that’s a .481 OPS over five games. The season line still isn’t bad for a 21-year-old at this level: .276/.317/.474. Fellow 21-year-old Thomas Sosa, an outfielder, fared better here, 6-22 including a homer, though he struck out seven times.
The Joseph Dzierwa excitement train did not run into too many problems this past week. He allowed a run over five innings in his lone start, a solo home run. Dzierwa also got a chance to pitch in the All-Star Futures Game on Sunday, retiring the only batter he pitched against. The week also featured an impressive eight shutout innings in a single start by Luis De León. If he was regularly firing off outings like that, he’d be a lot more exciting. Instead, 4.76 ERA in 70 innings. Love the 11.1 K/9.
Others of interest
RHP Juaron Watts-Brown – Would I even mention him if he wasn’t a hyphenated Brown? Maybe not. Struck out eight batters in five innings this past week. The season ERA of 6.24 in 12 starts is less fun.
C/1B Ethan Anderson – Hit the injured list with an ankle injury, a real shame since he’s rocked this year: .270/.369/.520 with 17 homers.
Last week’s results: 3-2 vs. Jersey Shore (Phillies)
Second half record: 11-9, t-second place (1.5 GB) in South Atlantic League North
The Keys had a guy in the Futures Game as well. That was Ike Irish. He batted twice and walked once. In three games with the Keys before heading to Philadelphia, last year’s first rounder had three hits, including a double, bringing him to an .843 OPS in 71 games.
Fellow first rounder Wehiwa Aloy took the lead in Irish’s temporary absence. Aloy’s six games over this past week saw him rack up nine hits, including two homers, giving him 13 for the season. The thing to watch with Aloy is the strikeouts. He added eight this week and has a 27.2% strikeout rate this year. It’s not Vance Honeycutt territory (he struck out ten times in 11 at-bats in three games) but it’s not what you want.
Among the starting pitchers, the best outing this week was thrown by Twine Palmer, acquired from the Astros last year. His handful of games with Delmarva after the trade last year were so bad, so to see him continuing to do well this year a level higher is nice. This week saw him strike out eight batters over six innings while allowing just a run on three hits and two walks. For the season, it’s a 3.56 ERA and 1.203 WHIP for Palmer.
Others of interest
LHP Boston Bateman – Three runs allowed in five innings this week, less than ideal. Six strikeouts with only one walk allowed. Walk rates are my concern for him (4.6 BB/9 for the season), so if he can keep those down, I think he’ll be OK.
LHP Caden Hunter – Last year’s sixth round pick allowed two runs in five innings; he’s got a 1.93 ERA in eight starts with Frederick. Again, watching the walk rate (also 4.6 BB/9)
OF RJ Austin – 7-15 including a double and a homer, and he walked twice, and he stole eight bases to up his season total to 26. It’s a .259/.361/.414 line in 46 games for last year’s third rounder.
Last week’s results: 2-4 vs. Kannapolis (White Sox)
Second half record: 8-13, fifth place (3.5 GB) in Carolina League North
The lowest-level full-season Orioles affiliate is like Norfolk, except which thing is bad is flipped: They have the worst pitching staff in the league in terms of run prevention and they’re near the bottom in offense. It’s added up to a brutal record for this team as well, one that’s continuing into the second half.
On Friday night, one of the exciting young players on this team, infielder Jaiden Lo Re, left the game early after a collision on the bases. He was back in action on Sunday, reaching base all five times he came to the plate while driving in three runs. Lo Re has a .952 OPS in 27 games here. Fellow 19-year-old infielder DJ Layton’s week included 5-17 hitting with four walks and a pair of stolen bases; his .257/.402/.391 batting line in 75 games is also interesting for this level.
Others of interest
RHP Christian Rodriguez – Seven shutout innings this past week, with five hits and a walk allowed. The Orioles picked him in the 10th round two years ago. He’s 24, old for this level. I think we’ll see some promotions once the draft picks start signing.
In last week’s minor league player of the week poll, you chose my guy Estrada as the winner, narrowly edging Rodriguez. Thanks for your support! Estrada is our ninth different winner of the weekly polls this season. Irish is the only guy to win twice. Other single week winners: Victor Figueroa, Payton Eeles, Braylin Tavera, Caden Hunter, Wehiwa Aloy, Jaiden Lo Re, and Joseph Dzierwa.
Will we add another repeat winner this week? The choice is yours.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - JULY 18: Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (left) and Philadelphia Phillies Managing Partner and CEO John Middleton (right) applaud and the Phillie Phanatic reacts after the 2026 MLB All-Star Game logo is revealed during Philadelphia's 2026 All-Star Game Declaration on July 18, 2025, at Dilworth Park, in Philadelphia, PA. (Photo by Erica Denhoff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Good morning, baseball fans!
Tonight is the 2026 MLB All-Star Game, being held at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The game will be broadcast nationally on Fox.
Getting the start for the National League will be the Philadelphia Phillies’ own left-hander Cristopher Sánchez, who ended the first half of the season with a 2.62 ERA, 2.70 FIP, with 144 strikeouts to 25 walks in 127.1 innings pitched.
Starting for the American League will be Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Dylan Cease, who ended the first half with a 2.56 ERA, 2.18 FIP, with 148 strikeouts to 44 walks in 98.1 innings pitched.
Here are the starting lineups:
National League
Kyle Schwarber – Philadelphia Phillies – DH
Juan Soto – New York Mets – LF
Freddie Freeman – Los Angeles Dodgers – 1B
CJ Abrams – Washington Nationals – SS
Max Muncy – Los Angeles Dodgers – 3B
Ozzie Albies – Atlanta Braves – 2B
Brandon Marsh – Philadelphia Phillies – RF
Andy Pages – Los Angeles Dodgers – CF
Drake Baldwin – Atlanta Braves – C
American League
Mike Trout – Los Angeles Angels – CF
Yordan Alvarez – Houston Astros – DH
Shea Langeliers – Athletics – C
Junior Caminero – Tampa Bay Rays – 3B
Bobby Witt, Jr. – Kansas City Royals – SS
Cody Bellinger – New York Yankees – RF
Ben Rice – New York Yankees – 1B
Riley Greene – Detroit Tigers – LF
Ernie Clement – Toronto Blue Jays – 2B
The San Francisco Giants have two players expected to appear in the game, RHP Logan Webb and second baseman Luis Arraez.
DENVER, COLORADO - MAY 7: Manager Warren Schaeffer #4 looks on before a game against the New York Mets at Coors Field on May 7, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Colorado Rockies are a team in the midst of a rebuild. With this in mind, the staff at Purple Row thought it would be useful to revisit the “State of the Position” series that we ran in March to see where things stand. We’ve asked authors of the spring articles to re-evaluate their earlier remarks with an eye toward the August 3 trade deadline.
What I said in March
For my initial article about the new coaching staff, I described them as a “data-driven team of problem solvers and relationship builders.” I also introduced you to them, and asked manager Warren Schaeffer (who I described as a “communicator” and “relationship builder”) to describe each member of his staff in one word:
Bench Coach, Jeff Pickler: “Prepared”
Assistant Bench Coach, Ron Gideon: “Wise”
Hitting Coach, Brett Pill: “Relentless”
Assistant Hitting Coach, Jordan Pacheco: “Smooth”
Pitching Coach, Alon Leichman: “Unique”
Assistant Pitching Coach, Gabe Ribas: “Polished”
Bullpen Coach, Matt Buschmann: “Funny”
First Base/Outfield Coach, Doug Bernier: “Energetic”
Third Base Coach, Andy González: “Machine”
Bullpen Catcher & Assistant to Baseball Operations, Kyle Cunningham: “Controversial”
Catching Coach & Bullpen Catcher, Chris Rabago: “Sneaky”
After a whirlwind offseason, we finally were able to see the coaching staff in action. Schaeffer was running his first spring training, and his new staff put their words into action. Spring training was all about experimentation. Not only did they tinker with baseball strategies, but they also tinkered with basic things such as the daily schedule. We saw some early results in spring training, but now we’re in the midst of the regular season and can start to see progress in those areas.
Since we’re only part of the way through the season, the picture will be incomplete. But we can still get glimpses of how things have been working (or not).
All stats current as of July 11, 2026.
Where the Rockies are now
Multi-inning Relievers
At the beginning of the season, the Rockies experimented with “bulk relievers.” Essentially, the idea was that the game would start with an opener, and then he would be relieved after an inning for someone else to pitch 4-6 innings in the middle of the game. Initially, this was reserved for Antonio Senzatela and Chase Dollander. When he was called up on April 14, Tanner Gordon was also in the mix. The thinking behind it was that the “starter” could go deeper in the games – ideally the sixth or seventh inning – while not seeing the top of the order right out of the gate. It was also promoted as a way to save the bullpen, especially with the extreme conditions the Rockies have to play in. As an additional wrinkle, they would occasionally have a starter throw his scheduled bullpen in the game.
Dollander made 10 appearances before his injury, and six of them were in relief. Five were bulk relief, where he pitched anywhere from four to six innings, and one was an in-game bullpen appearance. Senzatela was also used in a bulk relief role, but his outings were much shorter than Dollander’s. He made one appearance of three innings, and another of 3.1 innings, but the rest have been 2.2 IP or fewer. 10 of his last 11 appearances have been within the confines of one inning (one outing was 0.2 IP). Gordon was used the most like Dollander, pitching 3-6.1 innings across seven bulk relief appearances.
Dollander is on the 60-day IL after undergoing internal brace surgery; Senzatela has transitioned into more of a traditional reliever; and Gordon was moved back into the starting rotation.
In their place, Zach Agnos has become the de facto bulk reliever. Agnos has made 25 appearances (including two starts), and nine of them have been three or more innings in length (though one was his start on June 6 against the Milwaukee Brewers). Juan Mejia has also been used over multiple innings 12 times in 38 appearances, but never more than two innings.
Conclusion: The bulk reliever experiment showed some promise, but injuries to the rotation (including Dollander) forced them to abandon it for a more traditional pitching approach.We’ll see if that change was due to the injuries, or if this will be a permanent switch back.
Pitch Suggesting
Another tactic the Rockies experimented with early in the season was “pitch suggestions.” The idea was that the pitching coaches, typically Alon Leichman, would suggest every pitch to the pitcher and catcher, who would if they wanted it. Most of them embraced it, but some pitchers still called their own pitches. It was a collaborative effort between all three parties, and the pitchers had the autonomy to shake off any pitches they didn’t agree with.
As the season has gone on, it appears the Rockies have transitioned away from pitch suggesting. President of baseball operations Paul DePodesta told the media last weekend that they are refining the process, and some players are still using it.
Conclusion: It will be interesting to see if the Rockies go back to pitch suggestions after the All-Star Break, what the process will look like going forward, or if they abandon it completely. But this particular experiment shows that the coaching staff and front office aren’t locked into one way of thinking and are constantly refining their approach to the game.
Base Stealing
Schaeffer & Co. have emphasized better baserunning and generally creating more opportunities on the basepaths. That means focusing on speed and stolen bases. The Rockies made that vision clear when they traded for Jake McCarthy, who leads the team with 15 stolen bases in 19 attempts. Every single position player who has made an appearance with the Rockies has at least one stolen base except for TJ Rumfield, Chad Stevens, Brett Sullivan and Sterlin Thompson. Hunter Goodman has more stolen bases in the first half of 2026 (5) than the last three seasons combined (3). He’s been caught four times, but is still attempting more than he ever has.
The Rockies as a team have recorded 66 stolen bases in 95 attempts. The 66 stolen bases ranks them 14th in MLB, and the 29 times caught ranks them fourth. In the first half of 2025, they stole 52 bases (23rd) and were caught 24 times (T-8th). In 2024, they had 53 stolen bases (T-20th) and were caught 19 times (T-10th).
Conclusion: The Rockies are prioritizing different ways to get runs. It goes back to “he gets on base” from Moneyball, but it’s working.
In summary, this coaching staff has shown a willingness to try new things and make adjustments as needed.
Offensive Output
The biggest turnaround so far has been the offense.
Heading into Sunday’s game against San Francisco, the Rockies ranked in the top seven in average (.256) and OPS (.748), sixth in slugging (.421) and seventh in OBP (.327). Comparatively, in 2025, they ranked last in OBP (.293), 27th in OPS (.679), 24th in slugging (.386) and 23rd in average (.237).
Since June 1, the Rockies’ 215 runs scored are the second-most in MLB behind only the Milwaukee Brewers (221). They also have four players in the Top 20 in OPS since June 1: Kyle Karros (1.065, 3rd), Hunter Goodman (.995, 9th), TJ Rumfield (.946, 15th) and Jake McCarthy (.943, 18th). They have also been averaging 5.06 runs per game at home and 4.54 runs on the road. They have not averaged more than 4.0 runs on the road since 2020 (4.07) and have not averaged more than 4.5 runs on the road since 2007 (4.72).
It wasn’t always like this. May was a rough month. After a 14-18 start, they went just 8-20 in May and were outscored 190-119. But since June 1, they are 17-21 and have been outscored just 221-215. They also have not been shut out since May 19.
Conclusion: The Rockies are finding more ways to score runs and keep games closer. They are not rolling over and letting teams beat them’; instead, they are forcing them to. By the All-Star Break in 2025, they’d been outscored 589-336 (-253). In 2026, it’s 552-465 (-87).
Plate Discipline
Plate discipline has been something that has plagued the Rockies for years. But that is changing this year, as well.
In 2025, the Rockies struck out 25.9% of the time. Only the LA Angels were worse (27.1%). In 2024, they led the league with a 28.8% strikeout rate; and in 2023 they ranked third (25.5%). However, in 2026, they rank 11th so far (22.8%).
Their walk rate is still relatively low – 8.4%, which ties them with the St. Louis Cardinals for 17th in MLB. In 2025, they ranked last (6.7%). In 2024, they were tied with the San Diego Padres for 16th (7.5%). And in 2023, they were 18th (7.4%).
Some of this can be attributed to an overall tightening up of plate discipline. In March and April, the Rockies struck out 25.1% of the time – 29th in MLB. Since June 1, they’ve struck out just 21% – 10th in MLB.
As far as walk rate is concerned, they walked just 8% of the time (21st) in March and April. Since June 1, they’ve walked 9.5% of the time (6th).
And no player exemplifies that more than third baseman Kyle Karros. Prior to Sunday’s contest, Karros had reached base in 19-straight games. It was the longest active on-base streak in the league, and tied for the longest streak by a Rockie this season (Mickey Moniak, April 15-May 7). He is also slashing .342/.434/.631 with six homers since June 1. Both his 1.065 OPS and .434 OBP rank third in the league. Prior to that, Karros was slashing just .215/.273/.337 with three homers.
Conclusion: The Rockies are becoming much more patient at the plate. They are learning as they go and making adjustments. They are putting more emphasis on getting on base by any means possible, which is helping them score more runs, especially late in games.
Defensive Positional Versatility
In addition to pitching versatility, the Rockies also touted positional versatility in the field. This is nothing new for the Rockies, but this new team has cranked it up to 12.
This was first evident when they signed Willi Castro, who has been the definition of a “versatile veteran” for years. So far in 2026, Castro has played every position at least once except for pitcher and catcher and there have been occasional instances where he played multiple positions in the same game. Cory Cohen wrote an excellent profile on Castro’s positional versatility just last week.
We’ve also seen Edouard Julien play first and second base, as well as Tyler Freeman and Troy Johnston play both infield and outfield. Braxton Fulford has been primarily used as a designated hitter and backup catcher, but also dabbled in the outfield last week. This was also something we saw from Ryan Ritter in spring training.
But perhaps the biggest indicator of the new coaches’ emphasis on positional versatility is Cole Carrigg. Carrigg is famously a “super-utilityman” (and a switch hitter, to boot). Interestingly, he has only played outside of center field twice — he played three innings of shortstop over two separate appearances — but that’s likely because of Brenton Doyle’s injury.
Conclusion: This is something the Rockies have worked on for years, and it’s something many teams do across the league. It’s one thing to have a player who can play a couple of positions well, but it’s another to be “able” to play everything serviceably. And perhaps this is something the Rockies have realized, as well, because Castro in particular has stayed in the infield a lot more lately and there haven’t been as many in-game positional adjustments. This will be something to keep an eye on in the second half.
Win-Loss Record and Overall Results
The biggest and most obvious metric is the raw win-loss record of the Rockies in 2026. Heading into the All-Star Break, the Rockies are 39-59. That’s about a 64-98 pace. Considering they’ve lost 100+ games in each of the last three seasons, that’s a significant improvement. Additionally, the last time they won more than 34 games in the first half was 2022, when they were 43-50 (they finished 68-94 that year). Don’t get me wrong – if they finish 64-98, it’s still bad. But the last year they won fewer than 100 games was 2022, and 98 losses is still 21 fewer than last year.
In 2026, they are 22-25 at home and 17-34 on the road. They are also 14-14 in one-run games, and have scored an MLB-leading 133 runs in the eighth inning or later. They have come from behind to win 25 times, and five of those have been from down three runs.
Additionally, they are slashing .294/.360/.480 with 43 doubles, four triples and 28 home runs in the eighth inning or later. 50 of the Rockies’ games have been decided by two runs or fewer, which is tied for the second-most in the majors. Their 30 losses by that margin are the third-most in MLB.
Conclusion: Warren Schaeffer has repeatedly said this team believes in each other, and he and players have mentioned on countless occasions how they never believe they are out of any game. That was something we saw last year, and it has continued this year. The fact that they have not been shut out since the middle of May shows how much fight there is in this team, and that’s all you can ask for (even though coming back from a 9-0 deficit in the first inning to win the game doesn’t happen very often).
Closing Thoughts
As I said in the opening, the coaching data is incomplete because we only have just over half a season’s worth of data to look at. Additionally, the Rockies are coming off of a historically bad 2025 season, so they have a big hole to dig themselves out of.
But the early returns – especially since June 1 – have been encouraging. May was bad, but they’ve since turned a corner. That shows they’re learning and making the necessary adjustments. The Rockies remind me of students who have gotten F’s on their report cards for the last few years and are looking to get C’s. It takes the right teacher(s) to get them there, and so far, things are trending in the right direction under “The Schaeffer Way.”
I don’t like to name games, and this probably won’t catch on, but it was a Big Weekend for Alex Bregman. There were articles talking about him going into a deep dive during the All-Star break to fix all that is broken just a few days ago. It turns out that I wish the break wasn’t happening just as Bregman is starting to work out of his slump. But maybe instead of having the pressure of fixing everything, Bregman can fine tune what he just found out about his game.
Seemingly hidden behind Bregman’s Weekend was the performance of Michael Busch. He went 5-for-8 with three doubles, two runs scored and an RBI. If Busch keeps this up after the break, this is another possible breakout for this season.
PCA was only 1-for-6 in the two games, but he worked the pitchers for four walks and scored two runs.
And hopefully Kevin Alcantara getting the bat on the ball for a seeing-eye two-RBI single will give him some confidence in future games.
Javier Assad and Matthew Boyd did not perform stunningly well, but their performances were solid and kept the Cubs in both games for a pair of seventh-inning rallies to win. Assad did give up a pair of solo home runs, but he stranded the other five hits, struck out four and did not issue a walk. Boyd’s game wasn’t as solid with a four-run third inning by the Reds, but Boyd importantly pitched into the seventh inning, having allowed two hits and a walk in the other 5.1 innings that he pitched.
Also, the bullpen held together in both games, allowing one run in 6.2 innings pitched. And the Cubs won the series.
I’m ready for the second half.
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Sean Holland (Cubs Insider): Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (7/12/26): Cubs 8, Reds 4 – Bregman Goes Deep Again in W. “The road team got some more production out of their third baseman, who suddenly got right, to take the series.”
Jordan Bastian (MLB.com): How a renewed approach in the box led to PCA’s second All-Star nod. “When the Cubs returned home for the next homestand, Alex Bregman pulled the Cubs center fielder aside and offered some veteran insight, using that moment against Iglesias as an example.”
Jason Ross (North Side Baseball): Recapping Chicago Cubs’ 2026 Draft Class: A Big Bet on Tyler Zombro. “The Cubs selected 21 names in the 2026 MLB Draft, and most should sign. What should we make of this class? And what makes it stand out from previous ones under Dan Kantrovitz?”
Evan Altman (Cubs Insider): Cubs Indeed Go Pitching-Heavy in Draft, Select 16 Arms in 21 Picks. “After drafting three college pitchers out of their first five picks in rounds 1-4, the Cubs continued the trend with 13 more arms over the final 16 rounds of the Draft.”
John Weldon “JJ” Cale (December 5, 1938 – July 26, 2013) was an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter. Though he avoided the limelight, his influence as a musical artist has been acknowledged by figures such as Neil Young, Mark Knopfler, Waylon Jennings, and Eric Clapton, who described him as one of the most important artists in rock history. He is one of the originators of the Tulsa sound, a loose genre drawing on blues, rockabilly, country, and jazz. According to AllMusic, he was known for his “laconic delivery and shuffling boogie rhythm,” as well as for his “laid-back rootsy style”. He rarely diverted from this style throughout his career.
Along with a number of other young Tulsa musicians, Cale moved to Los Angeles in late 1964, where he found employment as a studio engineer as well as playing at bars and clubs. In 1966, while living in the city, he cut a demo single with Liberty Records of his songs “After Midnight” with “Slow Motion” as the B side. He distributed copies of the single to his Tulsa musician friends living in Los Angeles, many of whom were successfully finding work as session musicians. Not being able to make enough money as a studio engineer, he sold his guitar and returned to Tulsa in late 1967.
In 1970, it came to Cale’s attention that Eric Clapton had recorded “After Midnight” on his debut album. Cale, who was languishing in obscurity at the time, had no knowledge of Clapton’s recording until it became a radio hit in 1970. “I was dirt poor, not making enough to eat and I wasn’t a young man. I was in my thirties, so I was very happy. It was nice to make some money.“
Please be reminded that Cub Tracks and Bleed Cubbie Blue do not necessarily endorse the content of articles, podcasts, or videos that are linked to in this series.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Jordan Walker #18 of the St. Louis Cardinals competes during the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) | Getty Images
As a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan, I haven’t felt this way in years. Monday night’s MLB Home Run Derby reminded me of the romance and sheer delirious joy that this sport can give us. That’s why I’m convinced that Jordan Walker’s Home Run Derby victory will rank among the best moments in St. Louis Cardinals history.
You never know how a player will respond to moments on a national stage. When I learned that Jordan Walker was going to be a part of the Home Run Derby, I had several hot takes. First, what a great opportunity for Jordan. Good for him. Second, he’ll surely have nerves since this is his first All-Star game experience and first Home Run Derby. As the night started, the first thing that struck me was how relaxed Jordan Walker appeared. He said in interviews that he was nervous, but everything about him just projected calm, cool and collected.
As the Derby began, Willson Contreras launched an impressive 13 home runs in 20 swings. Jordan Walker then calmly matched him with a smooth, easy swing that carried him into the semi-finals.
Prior to the Home Run Derby, many prognosticators predicted that Junior Caminero of the Tampa Bay Rays would win it. He was Jordan’s competition in the semi-finals and not only did Walker defeat him, but he did it with 7 swings not needed. Jordan seemed like a man with ice in his veins.
As the final round began, I was overwhelmed with how proud Cardinals fans should be of what Jordan Walker achieved. Making it to the finals in his first All-Star game, his first Home Run Derby…that’s such an accomplishment. Surely he won’t win this thing, will he? After Kyle Schwarber hammered 11 home runs in 15 swings, I (and thousands of fans in the stands in Philly) thought it was over. The one person who didn’t believe that? Jordan Walker. Even after he only had 8 home runs with 1 swing remaining, he appeared at ease. Smooth swings…4 in a row as he took advantage of bonus swings on his last ball sailed into the night as the fans in Philadelphia watched in a stunned silence.
As Jordan’s 12th finals home run flew deep into the left field stands, I screamed, fist in the air like I haven’t done in years. The last time it happened? Albert’s 700th home run in 2022. World Series games 6 and 7 in 2011. Before that, it was the World Series clincher against Detroit in 2006. I was also reminded of that night in September in 1998 when Mark McGwire’s 62nd home run barely cleared the left field wall in the old Busch Stadium. Same emotions that night that I feel right now. I’m elated. Blown away by how Jordan Walker rose to the occasion and faced a fierce Philly crowd and hoisted a trophy that he wasn’t supposed to get and then maintain his humbleness as the MLB world started reacting to this huge upset.
Major League Baseball needs more of what happened Monday night in Philadelphia. St. Louis Cardinals fans need more of what happened Monday night in Philadelphia. A reminder of the romance of a baseball upset that shouldn’t be possible from a small market player who is what he is because of the strong family that stood behind him when the rest of us doubted him. Thank you, Jordan Walker and family. I felt like I was 10-years-old again thanks to what you accomplished. You will now forever be a part of some of my favorite St. Louis Cardinals memories ever and with the rich history of this team, that’s saying something.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Jac Caglianone #14 of the Kansas City Royals competes during the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Caglianone belted eight home runs in the first round of the annual tournament. He got off to a slow start before settling in with some mammoth homers.
In his session, Caglianone blasted homers well into the third deck at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He also hit a baseball over the batter’s eye in center field before bowing out after 20 swings.
However, Caglianone wouldn’t move forward. He was not one of the final four participants after Willson Contreras (13 homers), Jordan Walker (13), Junior Caminero (12) and Kyle Schwarber (10) advanced in the competition.
Caglianone finished tied for sixth among the eight contenders with eight home runs, and only the top four advanced. While CBP doesn’t have a reputation as being especially friendly or unfriendly to right- or left-handed hitters, it certainly seemed the righties had the most fun in the first round. All three right-handed hitters — Willson Contreras, Jordan Walker and Junior Caminero — launched at least 12 homers, placing first, second and third in the opening round. Meanwhile none of the five lefties — Kyle Schwarber, Ben Rice, Caglianone, Bryce Harper and Munetaka Murakami — tallied more 10, and among them, only Schwarber advanced to the second round.
The Royals slugger found himself in fourth after four batters, but withstood a challenge from Rice. However, when Caminero hit his ninth on the way to 12 total, Caglianone was eliminated.
Ultimately, Jordan Walker prevailed in the Derby on a thrilling walk-off finish against Philly favorite Kyle Schwarber.
After Schwarber clubbed 11 homers to send the crowd into a frenzy, Walker found himself sitting on eight with one swing left in the finals. Batters who end on a homer are allowed unlimited swings after that until a ball doesn’t go over the fence, and Walker took full advantage, hitting four in a row to upend Schwarber.
In doing so, he became the first Cardinals player to win the Derby.
No matter the outcome Monday night, Caglianone will be a winner because of who will be throwing to him: Jeff Caglianone, his dad. Father and son practiced on the Camden Yards field on Sunday, a day later than planned. They hoped to do it Saturday but were rained out. So they worked in the cages and began forming a plan.
“It’s funny. We talked about that yesterday,” Jeff Caglianone said Sunday. “He was looking (for pitches) a little bit up and in, and then I was throwing him some pitches down, and he was hammering them. As long as he gets a barrel to it, we’ll be OK.”
The Caglianones have Home Run Derby history, as dad pitched to his son at the 2024 Arizona Fall league event.
David Lesky ruminates on the first half of the season.
There has absolutely been some good. We’ve seen some of those young hitters have big moments. We’ve seen great moments like Stephen Kolek’s complete game, the crazy game against the Phillies, the walkoff against the Angels and others. But this was supposed to be a year to compete for the division title, not be the worst team in baseball. The Rockies are a half-game better! Some of it is injuries. The start was just bad baseball. Cole Ragans, Vinnie Pasquantino, Salvador Perez and the bullpen in general just weren’t good enough. But as I’ve said, the injuries piled up, and they couldn’t really overcome that brutal start. The 40-48 first half of 1986 might be more disappointing than this, only because they were coming off the title, but even so, this is pretty close.
Mike Gillespie at Royals Keep raises three questions the Royals should think about during the break.
The White Sox are going to sign number one overall pick Roch Cholowsky to a big deal, apparently a record bonus.
We got some more contract details on JJ Wetherholt’s deal with the Cardinals.
The 2026 MLB Draft is over, and the White Sox targeted outfielders and power bats.
This year’s signing deadline is July 22, although the White Sox are expected to ink at least 20 of their picks. As you are probably aware, each pick in the draft is assigned a specific and unique value, and the sum of those values is the amount a team is allowed to spend on their draft selections.
For the first 10 rounds of the draft, every dollar spent counts against that total (the bonus pool). All picks after the 10th Round are assigned $150,000 as the signing bonus; players can be (and often are) signed for more or less than that — but anything more than $150,00 counts against the bonus pool.
HOWEVER, teams are allowed to overspend their bonus pool by up to 5%. If a team spends more than 105% of their bonus pool, stiff penalties are introduced: the loss of future draft picks. For this reason, under these rules no MLB team has ever exceeded that 5% overage.
There are various strategies employed to maximize pick value, which often ends up on the backs of college seniors with no leverage (i.e. cannot refuse to sign/return to school); the White Sox in fact have paid signing bonuses as little as $10,000 or perhaps $5,000 under such circumstances. The unused money is then poured into enticing one of the “money picks” (Nos. 1-10, but more likely in the first five rounds) to sign. Or, as was the case DJ Gladney in 2019, a “steal” in the lower 10s of the draft will have such savings steered to him to ensure signing/eschewing a college scholarship commitment.
Our tracker is below. Scroll right for additional details, and scroll all the way down for details on undrafted free agent signings.
Director of scouting Mike Shirley has indicated already that 20th Round pick Connor Fennell may not be signed, as he was chosen as insurance against another player refusing to agree to terms or not passing his physical. But with 21 picks, the White Sox will very likely ink at least 20 players out of this draft.
If a player doesn’t sign with the White Sox, the money slotted for their pick is lost; it cannot be used to sign other players in the draft class. The White Sox would, however, get a compensation pick in 2027 that is one slot lower. That is, if the White Sox failed to sign Cole Prosek, they would get the No. 42 pick in the 2027 draft. If a pick lower than the first two rounds doesn’t sign, the White Sox get a compensatory pick the next year at the end of the round; if third-rounder Joey Volchko doesn’t come to terms, the White Sox will get an extra pick at the end of 2027’s third round.
Two weeks have passed since the beginning of the NHL free agency period, and future Hall of Fame forward Patrick Kane remains unsigned.
Kane, who signed with the Detroit Red Wings as an unrestricted free agent in December 2023, subsequently signed a one-year contract on June 30 of both 2024 and 2025, and has spent the last two and a half seasons wearing the Winged Wheel.
And while Kane spoke openly at the end of the 2025-26 campaign about his interest in remaining with Detroit, circumstances may have changed, especially in the wake of Dylan Larkin's explosive trade request that went public in early June.
In mid-April, Kane expressed interest in running it back in Detroit.
“I think there is mutual interest for me to come back and continue my career here. It’s been a great spot for me, my family, and my son, and I’ve definitely enjoyed my time here," Kane said in April during Detroit's season-ending media availability. "But there’s no rush. I’ll talk things over with my agent and my family, and we’ll see how everything plays out.
“I’d love to be part of the solution that gets this team over the hump. We have a good team here, and we can win. I think this team is better than some teams that are in the playoffs.”
Larkin had a similar sentiment, saying he wants to remain with Detroit and be part of the solution that gets them back to the postseason.
However, Larkin had a change of heart and officially requested to be moved by GM Steve Yzerman, who confirmed the report that was first made public by NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman in early June.
While there remains an avenue for Kane to return to the Red Wings after testing the market, his potential departure would represent yet another blow to Detroit's offense.
In 67 games last season, Kane produced 16 goals and 41 assists for 57 points, ending the year fifth among Detroit's leading point producers.
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