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Series Preview: St. Louis Cardinals on the Road Against the Atlanta Braves

ATLANTA, GA - JUNE 17: Matt Olson #28 of the Atlanta Braves runs in the eighth inning during the continuation of a game from June 16 against the San Francisco Giants at Truist Park on June 17, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Jack Casey/Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The St. Louis Cardinals begin a challenging road trip starting Tuesday night in Atlanta as they’ll do battle against the NL East division-leading Braves. Timing may be on the side of St. Louis, though, as there are some numbers that might work in their favor.

If you look at their records on paper, you would think that the St. Louis Cardinals would have their work cut out for them as the Atlanta Braves lead the National League East with a record of 49-32. That might still be the case, but the Cardinals are catching the Braves at the best possible time for two reasons. First, the Braves have lost 7 of their last 10 games. Second, St. Louis will miss Atlanta’s best starting pitcher this season, Chris Sale. Here are the projected starters for the series this week. Note that the Braves have not yet announced a starter for Thursday as of now.

Tuesday, June 30: Martín Pérez (LHP) vs. Matthew Liberatore (LHP, Cardinals)

Wednesday, July 1: Reynaldo López (RHP) vs. Michael McGreevy (RHP, Cardinals)

Thursday, July 2: Bryce Elder (RHP) vs. Dustin May (RHP, Cardinals)

Over his last 6 games, Tuesday night’s starter Martín Pérez is 4-2 with a 3.75 ERA striking out 32 while walking 16. His most recent start was on June 24 against the Padres which he lost after lasting 4 innings giving up 3 earned runs while walking 4 and striking out 4.

The starter for Wednesday night’s game, Reynaldo López, is 3-1 on the season with a 3.47 ERA. His last 3 appearances have been no decisions. If the rotation for Atlanta sets up like it appears it might, this will probably be the Cardinals toughest starter they face in this series.

Thursday night’s likely starter, Bryce Elder, is 1-4 over his last 5 starts. He’s lost his last 3 starts and was hit hard in all of them. He gave up 6 earned runs on June 14 vs the Mets allowing 10 hits. On June 21 vs the Brewers, he surrendered 12 hits and 8 earned runs over 6 innings.

The Atlanta Braves have some key players on the injured list including outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. (hamstring strain), starting pitcher Spencer Strider (elbow inflammation), and reliever Robert Suarez (forearm inflammation). Still, their lineup remains dangerous with Michael Harris II who is batting .300 and has 14 home runs. Matt Olson is still Matt Olson as he currently leads the Braves with 20 home runs and 52 RBI’s. Catcher Drake Baldwin has 14 home runs with 39 RBI’s and a .260 batting average. Ozzie Albies has a dozen home runs, 44 RBI’s and a .277 average.

There’s no good time to play the Atlanta Braves this season, but this might be the best timing the St. Louis Cardinals could hope for. The Braves have been sliding lately and injuries have hit them hard, but they’re also starting to feel the heat from the Phillies who are now only 4 games back in the NL East, so they might be inspired to get back to their winning ways sooner rather than later. The St. Louis Cardinals aren’t on fire either after finishing a disappointing homestand. Which team will return to winning first? We’ll find out starting Tuesday night in Atlanta.

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Game #85: Dodgers at Athletics Game Thread

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MARCH 7: Gage Jump #79 of the Athletics pitches during a spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels at Las Vegas Ballpark on March 7, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Justine Willard/Athletics/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The A’s are back home and set to take on the reigning champion Los Angeles Dodgers this evening for the first of three contests. The Dodgers continue to be a juggernaut in the National League as their 54-30 record is tops in the entire sport. It’s going to be a tough challenge for the Green & Gold tonight but they’ll have one of their top young arms going for them in this one. Hopefully he’ll be able to help the A’s snap this two-game skid and get win #41.

That arm is lefty Gage Jump. The 22-year-old has been everything and then more for the squad as he’s sporting a pristine 2.064 ERA through his first six career starts. The lefty has been on a roll but has really stepped his game up over his past two starts. He’s pitched 12 innings without allowing a run so he’ll try to extended that, but he’s got his plate full with the Dodgers’ star-studded lineup.

Here’s how the A’s lineup for tonight’s contest:

The A’s are missing several of their best players right now. Jacob Wilson and Tyler Soderstrom were placed on the IL earlier today, joining Brent Rooker and Zack Gelof. That’ll put more pressure on younger players to step up. Outfielder Colby Thomas will likely be getting an extended look in left field with Sodey on the IL. That means the club will also be asking more of the top of their lineup, especially Shea Langeliers and Nick Kurtz.

We have a big league debut set for tonight as second base will be covered by Athletics’ #9 prospect Joshua Kuroda-Grauer. The young infield prospect has been tearing the cover off the ball at Triple-A and with Jacob Wilson and Zack Gelof’s injures, he’ll now have a chance to put himself on the radar of the coaching staff. He’s batting .352/.405/.461 with three triples, a home run, and four stolen bases for the Aviators.

The Dodgers meanwhile will have veteran Eric Lauer going for them tonight. After beginning the year in Toronto Lauer was traded to Los Angeles after a rough start to his season. Since arriving in LA Lauer has completely turned his season around, pitching to a 2.54 ERA in 5 games (4 starts). That’s help the Dodgers weather some early injuries to their starting staff. He’s also coming off his best start of the season when he fired six shutout innings against the Twins.

And the Dodgers’ lineup this evening:

Muncy-on-Muncy tonight. Huge challenge on tap for the A’s but they got Jump. Can the A’s beat the Dodgers and get back to winning? Let’s find out. Let’s go A’s!

Follow the Game:
Watch:
Athletics – NBCSCA

Listen:
Talk 650 KSTE, KVMX 92.1/105.5, A’s Cast

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Astros vs. Twins Game Discussion: 6/29/2026

DETROIT, MI - JUNE 27: Houston Astros Jose Altuve (27) attempts a bunt during game between Houston Astros and Detroit Tigers on June 27, 2026 at Comerica Park in Detroit, MI (Photo by Allan Dranberg/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

TONIGHT’S GAME: The Houston Astros (42-44) will wear their City Connect uniforms tonight as they open a week-long, six-game homestand with the first of three games against the visiting Minnesota Twins (40-45).

RHP Peter Lambert (6-4, 3.28 ERA), who’s won four straight decisions, will open the homestand for Houston opposite RHP Zebby Matthews (3-5, 4.56 ERA) and the Twins.

RIDING THE LAMBO: Tonight’s Astros starter RHP Peter Lambert has posted a 4-0 record in his last six starts with a 2.97 ERA (11ER/33.1IP). Lambert’s four wins since May 24 are tied for tops in the AL in that span, along with six other pitchers, including teammate RHP Tatsuya Imai.

Lambert pitched last year for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows in the NPB, posting a 3.98 ERA (55ER/124.1IP) with 111 strikeouts in 23 appearances in Japan. He began this season at Triple A Sugar Land (1.84 ERA in three appearances) before being called up April 17.

THE SLOW TURNAROUND: After a slow start to the season, the Astros are 22-13 since May 21, which
is the best record in the AL in that span. On that date, the Astros were 20-31, 11 games under, which is their low water mark for the season.

TODAY’S ROSTER MOVE: The Astros have reinstated IF Nick Allen from the 10-day IL and have optioned IF Raynel Delgado to Triple A Sugar Land.

Allen is returning from a left hamstring strain, which sidelined him since June 8.

FROM THE TRAINER’S ROOM: The Astros have nine players on the Injured List…updates on a few:

  • RHP Ronel Blanco (rt. elbow surgery) has made two rehab starts this month, last pitching on Thursday for Double A Corpus Christi (0ER/3.1IP). He tossed 50 pitches (31 strikes) in the outing.
  • RHP Cristian Javier (rt. shoulder strain) made his fifth rehab start on Saturday for Triple A Sugar Land,
    working 6.0 shutout innings on 85 pitches.
  • RHP Lance McCullers Jr. (rt. shoulder inflammation) began his rehab assignment on Thursday at Triple A, tossing 3.0 scoreless innings and 42 pitches.
  • LHP Bennett Sousa (lt. elbow inflammation) continues his bullpen progression.
  • LHP Brandon Walter (lt. elbow surgery) continues his throwing progression in West Palm Beach.
  • RHP Hayden Wesneski (rt. elbow surgery) is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment with the FCL Astros later this week.
  • OF LaMonte Wade Jr. (rt. hamstring strain) is set to begin a rehab assignment at Triple A this week.
  • IF Braden Shewmake (rt. adductor strain) has played in two games for the FCL Astros on his rehab
    assignment, including a start at third base earlier today (2×3, 2B, BB).

MINOR LEAGUE HONORS: LHP Colton Gordon has been named the Triple A Pacific Coast League Pitcher of the Week (June 22-28).

Gordon made one start last week for Sugar Land, which came yesterday vs. El Paso, in which he tossed 6.0 shutout innings, allowing just one hit and one walk.

TODAY IN ASTROS HISTORY: 2005 – Craig Biggio is hit by a pitch for the 268th time to set a modern Major
League record, surpassing Don Baylor. Biggio homers his next time up in what ends up as a 7-1 win vs. Colorado.

Biggio would end his career with 285 hit by pitches, a record that will likely never be surpassed. The active leader in HBP is Starling Marte, who’s been hit by a pitch 168 times in his career.

Game Info

Game Date/Time: Monday, June 29, 7:10 p.m. CT

Location: Daikin Park, Houston, TX

TV: Space City Home Network

Radio: KTRH 740 AM, KBME 790 AM & 94.5 FM HD2; TUDN 102.9 FM HD2 (Spanish)

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Colorado Rockies vs. Miami Marlins game discussion: Sandy Alcantara vs. Sean Sullivan

DENVER, CO - JUNE 23: Starting pitcher Sean Sullivan #45 of the Colorado Rockies delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Coors Field on June 23, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Just about three months ago, the Rockies opened up the 2026 season in Miami against the Marlins.

It didn’t go very well.

Colorado got swept 3-0, but the good news is that the Rockies lost each game by one run, including a walk-off 4-3 loss in game three. Now, the 1993 expansion teams will face each other again, but this time for a four-game series at Coors Field.

The Rockies (33-50) have gone 5-5 in their last 10 games and are 18-22 at home this season. The Marlins (44-40) have been on a hot streak, going 8-2 in the last 10 games. Miami’s success is largely due to its successful employment of small ball and MLB-leading 92 stolen bases.

Making his fourth MLB start, Sean Sullivan (0-2, 8.25 ERA) will try to help the Rockies earn their first win over the Marlins this season. After throwing three scoreless innings against the A’s in his debut, the 23-year-old lefty struggled in start No. 2 when he gave up eight runs on nine hits, including two homers, in four innings against the Chicago Cubs. He was better in his last outing, when he surrendered three runs on five hits with five walks and three strikeouts in five innings against the Boston Red Sox.

The 2022 NL Cy Young winner, Sandy Alcantara (8-4, 4.01), will be on the mound for Miami. Alcantara, 30, has also been on a hot streak in June, posting a 2.60 ERA and a 5-0 record with 29 strikeouts and only six walks in 34.2 innings.

First Pitch: 6:40 p.m. MDT

TV: Rockies.TV

Radio: 850 AM/94.1 FM KOA Rockies Radio Network; KNRV 1150 AM (Spanish)

Lineups:

For the Marlins:

For the Rockies:

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Rob Refsnyder placed on the injured list amid series of injury updates for Seattle Mariners

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JUNE 19: Rob Refsnyder #30 of the Seattle Mariners waits for the pitch during the eighth inning against the Boston Red Sox at T-Mobile Park on June 19, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jack Compton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It’s another round of rotations through the injured list for the Seattle Mariners. Monday, they placed their righty-hitting platoon for right field and/or designated hitter on the 10-day IL, sidelining OF Rob Refsnyder with issues in both knees. In his place is the newly acquired 3B/1B/cOF Buddy Kennedy. The club has acknowledged Refsnyder having battled through injury to some degree, however, unfortunately, he has been notoriously, unable to muster productivity in any way. The issue for Refsnyder appears to be a lingering one more than something easily healed, which has been the club’s reasoning for attempting to manage and work through his health, however it’s clear only so many injuries could be managed at once. He received injections in both knees last week, however he has not progressed and will rehab in Arizona to try and find his way back that is less painful.

To that end, the club also provided updates on several dinged up and injured M’s. OF Luke Raley and OF Dominic Canzone will remain active, with Raley dealing with a strain in his left (non-throwing) arm that he has demonstrated the ability to swing through and perhaps even return to right field with in a few days. Similarly, Canzone is playing through tightness in his hamstring which will curtail his capacity to play in the field. Canzone’s situation seems a bit more similar to Jorge Polanco a season ago at times, where the lefty’s bat is too valuable to take out of the M’s lineup but requires management to avoid aggravation. Connor Joe is present but not activated, should Seattle need to make a change pregame or in this series.

Further out, General Manager Justin Hollander offered an impassioned defense of the caliber and efforts of Seattle’s training staff, while also providing updates on several sidelined M’s. Both RHPs Matt Brash and Cooper Criswell are likely to return in “August” per Hollander, with MRIs scheduled for July 6th to track if their healing process is on the expected track. UTIL Brendan Donovan “had a good week” which included running at near full effort and a full run through the batting cage, but it does not sound as though his return is coming until August or later.

Asked about the M’s tendency to keep injured players on the roster this year instead of giving guys full injured list stints, Hollander noted their calculation has ultimately been in a belief and assessment that players can, on a case-by-case basis, return or be effective in the shortened time provided relative to their options for longer time sidelined on the IL.

Other min0r-league injury updates of note:

  • INF Leo Rivas has been out essentially since he was optioned back to Tacoma on May 18. He’s apparently dealing with vertigo, and although his symptoms have improved he still gets dizzy while tilting his head up quickly, such as looking up to catch fly balls.
  • Promising lefty pitcher Mason Peters has been sidelined for the past two weeks with forearm soreness. He had an MRI and it didn’t show anything significant. The team will build him back slowly over the next couple weeks.
  • Similarly, righty Jackson Steensma is also dealing with forearm soreness. He had a cortisone shot last week to try to calm some inflammation and swelling; Hollander says his progression has been “a little slower than we would have hoped.”
  • There’s no update on OF Brennan Davis, who continues to deal with a left hamstring strain.
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Game Discussion: Milwaukee Brewers (50-31) vs. Cincinnati Reds (39-43)

ATLANTA, GA - JUNE 21: Robert Gasser #54 of the Milwaukee Brewers pitches during the game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on Sunday, June 21, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

It feels like the Brewers just played the Reds because… well, they did.

Last week, Milwaukee swept a three-game series in Cincinnati while holding the Reds to just six total runs — five of which came in the series finale. Tonight, the two teams open a four-game series, this time within the friendly confines of American Family Field.

Tonight’s pitching matchup is a battle of the lefties, with Robert Gasser (1-3, 4.50 ERA) squaring off against Nick Lodolo (2-2, 5.59 ERA). Gasser struggled in his first couple of appearances this season but has been great in June, going at least five innings in each start and allowing two or less runs except for a blowup outing in Las Vegas (6 ER in 5 IP). Even factoring in that outing, Gasser has a 3.74 ERA this month.

Lodolo’s last start was last Tuesday against the Brewers. He was pitching as well as he had all season through three hitless innings, but got hit on his left wrist by a Jackson Chourio comebacker to start the fourth. Lodolo ended up leaving the game after the fourth due to what the Reds deemed a contusion of that wrist, but he should be all good to go.

Tonight’s lineup against is pretty similar to last week’s, with Jackson Chourio, William Contreras, Brice Turang, and Andrew Vaughn again occupying the first four spots in the lineup. Jake Bauers, who started last time around against Lodolo, is out of today’s lineup, but lefty masher Gary Sánchez (.977 OPS vs. LHP) will DH. Rounding out the lineup are center fielder Blake Perkins (.702 OPS vs. LHP), right fielder Sal Frelick (.453 OPS vs. LHP), shortstop Cooper Pratt, and third baseman Joey Ortiz.

Finally, one more piece of roster news from this morning; per Curt Hogg, pitcher Logan Henderson should be back before the All-Star break. Henderson struck out seven in three innings yesterday in a rehab start with Triple-A Nashville.

Tonight’s game, as usual, will be broadcast on Brewers.TV, WTMJ 620, and the Brewers Radio Network. First pitch is set for 6:40 p.m.

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Game 86: Twins at Astros

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - JUNE 27: Trevor Larnach #9 of the Minnesota Twins catches a fly ball hit by Troy Johnston #20 of the Colorado Rockies (not pictured) for an out in the second inning at Target Field on June 27, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images

First Pitch (CT):7:10 PM
TV: Twins.TV
Radio: TIBN/830 WCCO/102.9 The Wolf /Audacy App
Know Yo’ Foe:Crawfish Boxes

After taking a series from the Colorado Rockies, the Twins are heading to Houston to face the Astros. An up-and-down season has Astros in a similar spot as the Twins: just below .500 and fighting to cement themselves in the playoff race. Also like the Twins, Houston has pretty much one good hitter who is among the best players in baseball (Byron Buxton/Yordan Alvarez) while the rest of the lineup is pretty suspect despite decent numbers as a team.

The Twins already took a series from the Astros in mid May but have been very good since then, going 22-12 while winning five straight series. The Twins, meanwhile, have gone 17-18 since their last matchup while winning four their past five series (and who counts the Dodgers anyway).

Tonight it’s Zebby Matthews vs Peter Lambert in a matchup of pitchers that makes you ask, “are either of these guys actually good?” We likely won’t get an answer but the parallels between these teams simply never end.

Roster Notes:

  • Byron Buxton is out again with his recurring hip issue. The team is being optimistic but Buck is getting imagine done and more information will be known later. For now, he’s out and there’s hope he can avoid the IL.
  • Should Buxton miss time, Alan Roden and top prospect Walker Jenkins just returned from their own IL stints. Kaelen Culpepper also returned, but all three are still having their workloads managed closely.
  • Anthony Banda is expected to miss multiple months with a significant lat strain. It’s a disappointing development for an already bad bullpen. Yoendrys Gomez and Andrew Morris have been huge success stories, but there’s very little reliability behind those two.

Lineups

TwinsOpponent
SP: Zebby MatthewsSP: Peter Lambert
1. Trevor Larnach, LF1. Jose Altuve, 2B
2. Brooks Lee, 3B2. Yordan Alvarez, DH
3. Kody Clemens, 2B3. Isaac Paredes, 3B
4. Josh Bell, DH4. Christian Walker, 1B
5. Royce Lewis, 1B5. Taylor Trammell, CF
6. Victor Caratini, C6. Cam Smith, RF
7. Ryan Kreidler, CF7. Joey Loperfido, LF
8. Tristan Gray, SS8. Nick Allen, SS
9. Luke Keaschall, RF9. Christian Vazquez, C
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San Diego Padres at Chicago Cubs

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 28: Manny Machado #13 of the San Diego Padres hits a solo home run against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the fourth inning at Petco Park on June 28, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Meg McLaughlin/Getty Images) | Getty Images

San Diego Padres (43-39) at Chicago Cubs (46-38), June 29, 2026, 5:05 p.m. PST

Watch: Padres.TV

Location: Wrigley Field – Chicago, Ill.

Listen: 97.3 The Fan

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GameThread: Detroit Tigers vs. New York Yankees, 7:05 p.m.

Jun 27, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers left fielder Riley Greene (31) celebrates after he hits a double in the sixth inning against the Houston Astros at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Detroit Tigers (35-49) vs. New York Yankees (48-35)

Time/Place: 7:05 p.m., Yankee Stadium
SB Nation Site: Pinstripe Alley
Media: Detroit SportsNet, MLB.TV, Tigers Radio Network
Pitching Matchup: RHP Casey Mize (2-5, 2.95 ERA) vs. LHP Ryan Weathers (3-5, 3.95 ERA)

PlayerGIPK%BB%GB%FIPfWAR
Mize1158.025.16.134.42.781.8
Weathers1586.226.96.841.44.181.1

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2026 MLB Awards Tracker: Power Rankings, betting odds for MVP, Cy Young: Crow-Armstrong, Rasmussen rise up

The National and American Leagues have new faces in the race for Cy Young and MVP as we near the All-Star Weekend.

Pete Crow-Armstrong and Junior Caminero are having dominant June's, but could it all be smoke and mirrors while chasing Shohei Ohtani and Yordan Alvarez? Drew Rasmussen and Chris Sale gained some ground in the Cy Young market, but can anyone catch Cam Schlittler and Jacob Misiorowski in the second half of the year?

National League Cy Young Poll

1. Jacob Misiorowski, Milwaukee Brewers (-225)

2026 Stats: 99.0 IP, 9-3, 1.45 ERA, 0.77 WHIP, 156 K, 27 BB, .144 OBA

Jacob Misiorowski threw a 105.5 mph heater on the third pitch of the game against the Cubs in his previous start, which is the third-hardest throw since tracking started in 2008. With the All-Star break around the corner, Misiorowski is the overwhelming favorite as he continues to set records in what seems like every start.

In June, Misiorowski has a 0.96 ERA (3rd), 0.64 WHIP (4th), 38 strikeouts (T-4th) and an MLB-leading .128 OBA. He was even better in May with a 0.28 ERA (2nd), .109 OBA (1st), 0.52 WHIP (1st), and 57 strikeouts (1st). Nobody has pitched better since May.

2. Cristopher Sanchez, Philadelphia Phillies (+350)

2026 Stats: 110.0 IP, 9-3, 2.13 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 127 K, 21 BB, .238 OBA

Cristopher Sanchez put a little distance between himself and Misiorowski in his previous start and not in a good way. Against Washington, Sanchez allowed seven hits and five earned runs over 5.0 innings. That was the second-most hits and earned runs allowed this season by Sanchez.

Sanchez did have another questionable start against the Brewers on June 14, which makes two of his worst starts on the season coming over the last three games. Sanchez will face the Pirates and Royals before the All-Star weekend, which couldn't be coming at a better time for him.

3. Chris Sale, Atlanta Braves (+2000)

2026 Stats: 90.0 IP, 8-6, 3.10 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, 109 K, 22 BB, .224 OBA

Chris Sale jumps Paul Skenes in this week's rankings. The Pirates have now lost eight straight Skenes' starts and he's posting a 3.58 ERA in June compared to Sale's 2.35 ERA.

Sale has now allowed two or fewer earned runs in 11 of the last 12 games and 13 out of 15 starts. At 37-years-old, Sale is having an outstanding half to his season. He is coming his second double-digit strikeout game on the year and his seventh consecutive game without a home run allowed. His 0.77 ERA over his past two starts ranks fourth in the MLB and tied for 9th with 17 strikeouts.

Long Shot: Chase Burns, Cincinnati Reds (+3000)

2026 Stats: 91.2 IP, 9-1, 2.36 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, 112 K, 29 BB, .208 OBA

Chase Burns set a season-high with 10 strikeouts against the Pirates in his previous start, but also tied a season-high with five earned runs allowed. The performance dropped Burns ERA from 2.00 to 2.36 and his OBA from below a .200. However, he earned a no decision so his 9-1 record stayed intact. (2nd-most wins), which will be how he can earn some backend votes for third, fourth, or fifth place in Cy Young voting.

Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

American League Cy Young Poll

1. Cam Schlittler, New York Yankees (-115)

2026 Stats: 100.0 IP, 8-4, 1.62 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, 118 K, 20 BB, .197 OBA

Cam Schlittler isn't apparently going to slow down anytime soon. The ace has four straight games of one or fewer earned run and two total in that span. Oddly, Schlittler had zero earned runs in his last start and earned a loss because of an error that sent an inning sideways with four runs allowed.

Schlittler hasn't recorded an ERA of 2.00 or higher in a single month yet this season. He has two or fewer earned runs allowed in 14 out of 17 starts, totaled six or more strikeouts in 13, and given up one or less walk in 10. Schlittler has been nothing short of a stud in his second season.

2. Dylan Cease, Toronto Blue Jays (+300)

2026 Stats: 83.1 IP, 4-4, 3.02 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 128 K, 40 BB, .207 OBA

Dylan Cease is keeping it close in the AL Cy Young race, but he hasn't done enough lately to gain any traction. Cease recorded his fifth double-digit strikeout performance of the season in his last start and second in June.

Unfortunately, Cease earned the loss over 4.2 innings and surrendered four earned runs, tied for the second-most on his season. Lately, his control is all over the place. Cease has 13 walks in the last three games and a season-high five in his last start. Cease's 40 walks on the season is twice as much as Schlittler in 16.2 fewer innings.

3. Drew Rasmussen, Tampa Bay Rays (+900)

2026 Stats: 92.0 IP, 7-4, 2.45 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, 94 K, 16 BB, .191 OBA

Don't look now if you're a fan of an AL East team that is not the Rays, but Drew Rasmussen is putting on a show. Rasmussen has a 3-2 record over five starts in June and posting a 0.82 ERA (2nd), .142 OBA (4th), 0.61 WHIP (T-1st), and 39 strikeouts (2nd) over 33.0 innings (T-5th).

Tampa Bay currently owns the American League's best record (48-33) overthrowing the Yankees in the process. The No. 1 seed has helped and will continue to assist Rasmussen's case for Cy Young, but he will have to continue to build off his stellar June and not a his 4.13 ERA in May.

Long Shot: Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers (+6000)

2026 Stats: 59.2 IP, 3-4, 3.32 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 66 K, 8 BB, .230 OBA

Tarik Skubal has not allowed nine earned runs in his first three starts back with 16 hits over 16.1 innings. Not exactly the numbers you want for Skubal, but his control is there with 21 strikeouts to two walks. The home run ball continues to be an issue with three given up in the last game versus the Yankees and six over his three starts back. Skubal's odds dropped from +3500 to +6000 after the Yankees start. He's going to need a dominant second half to get back in the conversation and keep his Cy Young three-peat alive.

Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.

American League MVP Poll

1. Yordan Alvarez, Houston Astros (-155)

2026 Stats: .311 BA, 25 HR, 56 RBI, 58 R, .426 OBP, 1.039 OPS

Yordan Alvarez hasn't hit a home run in six games, tied for his second-longest streak of the season. Seven games is the longest stretch without a homer, which is crazy to think he's hit a home run over a seven day span every week all year. Alvarez is also hitless over the last four games, which is the longest stretch of the season — giving Nick Kurtz and company a route to catching him in the early MVP race.

2. Nick Kurtz, Athletics (+250)

2026 Stats: .279 BA, 19 HR, 64 RBI, 59 R, .423 OBP, .948 OPS

Nick Kurtz was gaining major momentum in the MVP conversation, but that has started to cool off as he's in a mini slump. Over the last six games, Kurtz is hitting .136 with three hits, 10 strikeouts, and one walk in 22 at-bats. However, those six games came on the road and Kurtz is hitting .308 at home versus .252 on the road. With the Dodgers on deck and a matchup with Tarik Skubal in a week, Kurtz has some star power he can take advantage of.

3: Junior Caminero, Tampa Bay Rays (+2000)

2026 Stats: .292 BA, 22 HR, 49 RBI, 52 R, .548 SLG, .932 OPS

Junior Caminero is coming off a historic week. Caminero crushed seven home runs over six games, including three in one game against the Royals. He is hitting .423 with a 1.231 SLG and 1.731 OPS in that span off 11 hits over 26 at-bats. Caminero's seven home runs over six games is tied for the most by a hitter at the age of 22 or younger dating all the way back to 1900.

With the Rays leading the American League and Caminero having one of the best weeks of the season, he is now my No. 3 and should be top five on everyone's list. Caminero hit .305 in May and is hitting .323 in June with 14 home runs between the two months, so he isn't a one week wonder.

Long shot: Ben Rice, New York Yankees (+1300)

2026 Stats: .272 BA, 22 HR, 53 RBI, 56 R, .566 SLG, .928 OPS

Ben Rice has taken a step back in the MVP race as he's currently hitless over his last four games. Rice is hitting .074 in last 27 at-bats and .196 over the previous 56 at-bats. To put the cherry on top, Rice owns a .202 batting average in June, which is the personal worst for any month this season. The Yankees also lost sole possession of the AL East lead, which hasn't helped Rice's case either.

National League MVP Poll

1. Shoehi Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers (-1600)

2026 Stats: .296 BA, 17 HR, 44 RBI, 54 R, .418 OBP, .976 OPS

Shohei Ohtani is eating at the plate. In June, Ohtani is hitting .333 with an 1.093 OPS, seven home runs, 16 RBI, 16 walks, and 22 runs scored on 27 hits. Ohtani is posting some monthly-highs in a few hitting areas, while still earning wins as the starting pitcher.

Ohtani has a 3.28 ERA in June, which doesn't matchup with his April and May numbers, but the ace still is 3-0 with 25 strikeouts to seven walks with a .222 OBA over four starts (24.2 innings). It's going to be a hard case for anyone to be more valuable than Ohtani.

2. Kyle Schwarber, Philadelphia Phillies (+3500)

2026 Stats: .256 BA, 30 HR, 54 RBI, 54 R, .591 SLG, .962 OPS

After hitting three home runs in a game last week, Kyle Schwarber became the first player to 30 home runs on Sunday with a little over two weeks until the All-Star break. Schwarber is hitting .310 in June with eight home runs and a 1.015 OPS. The 33-year-old has been raking and posting the best month of the season at the plate.

3. Pete Crow-Armstrong, Chicago Cubs (+3000)

2026 Stats: .278 BA, 17 HR, 45 RBI, 51 R, 20 SB, .868 OPS

Pete Crow-Armstrong (PCA) is having one heck of a June, but can he keep it up in the second half of the season? PCA is hitting .367 this month with eight stolen bases, 10 home runs, 18 runs, and 19 RBI over 98 at-bats. However, the Cubs' star is slowing down with a .185 batting average over the last week (27 at-bats).

Chicago is 12-4 in the last 16 games he's played and he's played like a star in a lot of them. It appears PCA has taken another step in his evolution and it's likely to net him some MVP votes this season.

Long Shot: James Wood, Washington Nationals (+5500)

2026 Stats: .258 BA, 20 HR, 49 RBI, 72 R, 13 SB, .384 OBP

James Wood is a slump, which has been a rarity this season. Wood is hitting .133 in his last 30 at-bats and .179 over the past 56 at-bats. It's been 13 consecutive games Wood has failed to hit a home run and he's gone hitless in seven of the previous 11 games. The Nationals have stayed afloat (43-42 record) despite his slump over the last two weeks.

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RANGERS AT GUARDIANS: Messick vs. Alexander/Santos, discussion

CLEVELAND, OHIO - JUNE 27: Steven Kwan #38 of the Cleveland Guardians breaks his bat in the seventh inning against the Seattle Mariners at Progressive Field on June 27, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Russell Lee Verlinger/Cleveland Guardians/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Here’s the Rangers’ lineup:

Here’s the Guardians’ lineup:

Let’s go, Guardians!

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Mets At Jays Game Thread

Mar 27, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; A general view of the MLB Debut patch of Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Kazuma Okamoto (7) against the Athletics during the fourth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images | Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Bo returns to Rogers Centre.

It will be weird watching him wearing a different jersey. As much as I wish the best for him, I’d be ok with an 0 for 12 series for him.

There are a bunch of tweets about Bo tearing up before the game, I’m curious to see him when they play the video.

Today’s Lineups

METSBLUE JAYS
Carson Benge – RFGeorge Springer – DH
Juan Soto – LFNathan Lukes – RF
Bo Bichette – 3BVladimir Guerrero – 1B
Francisco Lindor – SSKazuma Okamoto – 3B
Jared Young – 1BErnie Clement – SS
A.J. Ewing – CFBrandon Valenzuela – C
Mark Vientos – DHLuis Urias – 2B
Brett Baty – 2BYohendrick Pinango – LF
Francisco Alvarez – CMyles Straw – CF
Sean Manaea – LHPTrey Yesavage – RHP
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Washington Nationals vs Boston Red Sox Game Thread

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JUNE 28: Luis García Jr. #2 of the Washington Nationals celebrates with James Wood #29 after hitting a two-run home run in the fifth inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on June 28, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images

After getting back on track in Baltimore, the Nats continue their road trip against another AL East foe. They head up to Boston to face a Red Sox team who just completed a 4 game sweep over the Yankees. However, for most of this season, the Red Sox have been inconsistent at best.

With a lefty on the mound, Blake Butera elected to make a few changes. However, he decided to keep his hottest hitter Luis Garcia Jr. in the lineup. Garcia usually sits against lefties, but he is too hot for that right now. Andres Chaparro will be in there as the DH. Daylen Lile will get a day off, meaning James Wood is in left, Jacob Young is in center and Dylan Crews is in right. Miles Mikolas will be on the mound with no opener in front of him.

This Red Sox lineup has underperformed for most of the season, but they have been better in June. Newcomer Willson Contreras has been their best hitter. Caleb Durbin has also been hot in June. The Nats very briefly rostered Tsung-Che Cheng, before DFA’ing him two days later. Now he is with the Red Sox, and starting at shortstop. Big money signing Ranger Suarez will be on the mound.

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Game Info:

Stadium: Fenway Park

Time: 7:10 PM EST

TV: Nationals.TV

Radio: 106.7 The Fan

This should be a fun week with Paul Toboni returning to Boston. There are plenty of storylines to chew on in this series. However, the Nats need to take care of business here. Follow along in the comments down below and let’s go Nats!

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New York Yankees vs. Detroit Tigers: Ryan Weathers vs. Casey Mize

Jun 5, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Ryan Weathers (40) throws the ball to first base during the third inning against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Readers, I begin this humble game thread with a question: is it better to head right back to work after a four-game sweep at the hands of your archrivals, to get an opportunity to flush it and leave it in the past? Or would an off-day at this juncture give you a much-needed chance to reset in the grind of a long season?

It’s a false choice, of course. The Yankees have no alternative but to return to the Bronx tonight and welcome the Tigers to town, after that aforementioned four-game mop at the Red Sox’ hands. The Tigers, if you recall, were the Bombers’ previous opponent before that ill-fated weekend in the Molasses City; they beat New York in a dud of an opener before the Yanks squeaked out a pair of close victories to take the set. You can bone up on the familiar matchup if you haven’t already by checking out Estevão’s series preview here.

Ryan Weathers was victorious in one of those games at Comerica Park, logging his second straight quality start with six innings of one-run ball. He was aided in his quest by excellent Yankee defense, including a pair of nifty grabs in center field by Max Schuemann. (Schuemann, it should be noted, is not in the lineup.) Overall, Weathers has had a bumpy beginning in pinstripes but remains a solid back-rotation option for New York. His penchant for the home run ball (his 16 homers allowed is 4th in the AL so far) has been a major culprit for his uneven season.

Casey Mize took the loss in the other game the Tigers dropped to the Yankees last week. His start wasn’t unlike the last few Gerrit Cole starts: good stuff shown, but too many misses in bad spots and an opportunistic lineup which was ready to punish mistakes. Mize allowed four runs on eight hits, striking out six Bombers and surrendering a go-ahead home run to Jazz Chisholm Jr.; a bright spot in what has been a very bipolar month for Jazz.

Ben Rice and Cody Bellinger will start the lineup with a rare double-lefty setup. Four of the first five batters against Mize will be left-handed, with Jazz and Jasson Domínguez on the other side of Paul Goldschmidt, hitting third. Anthony Volpe takes short, Spencer Jones patrols center field, Austin Wells dons the tools of ignorance, and José Caballero mans the hot corner tonight in the Bronx.

How to watch

Location: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY

First pitch: 7:05 pm ET

TV broadcast: YES, Detroit SportsNet

Radio broadcast: WFAN 660/101.9 FM, WADO 1280 (NYY) | WXYT 97.1 FM (DET)

Streaming: Gotham Sports App, MLB.TV (out-of-market only)

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Atlanta Braves off day chat and discussion: June 29

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 28: Michael Harris II #23 of the Atlanta Braves looks on walking back to the dugout against the San Francisco Giants in the top of the fourth inning of a major league baseball game at Oracle Park on June 28, 2026 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) | Getty Images

There’s one more off day until the Atlanta Braves are back in action on this side of the country. Hopefully the change in scenery will result in a change in fortune for the Braves, who have been on a very dire run as of late. As I mentioned with the title of a series recap from awhile back, the only way out is through, so hopefully the Braves can break through against the Cardinals and Mets this week.

For now, there’s no Braves action tonight so it’s time to get into the “big” question:

What am I watching tonight?

You may be shocked to hear this but there’s a World Cup game starting at 9:00 p.m. ET tonight and I plan on watching it. All of the matches from here on out are of the single elimination variety so the tension and drama has ratcheted up another level. Tonight’s match will be between the Netherlands and Morocco and I’m hoping it’ll be exciting.

If that’s not your cup of tea then ESPN is running a national game tonight with the Guardians facing the Rangers. Is that a sexy matchup? Not particularly but it’s baseball and it’s (likely) hot outside so you may as well just plant yourself on the couch and put on the game.

I’m not going to suggest a hate-watch since those haven’t been going pretty well for us Braves fans lately (as far as the Phillies are concerned) but if you just can’t help yourself, Braxton Ashcraft is getting a shot at the Phillies as Pittsburgh goes to Citizens Bank Park. You can also watch the Mets and Blue Jays lock horns in the battle of teams who are performing well below expectations. The Braves are currently performing below expectations at the moment so the vibes should be pretty similar.

What will you be watching? Any baseball? The World Cup? Anything else to get your mind off of sports? Let’s hear it. The floor is now yours.