Bernie Pleskoff

The Toronto Blue Jays are significantly underperforming expectations, currently vying to avoid the AL East cellar due to severe inconsistencies in their starting rotation. While Dylan Cease has delivered strong performances, and young Trey Yasavage offers stability, the team's veteran aces, Shane Bieber and Kevin Gausman, are struggling profoundly. Bieber, recently back from injury, has been ineffective, surrendering six home runs in just 13 innings. Gausman's form is equally concerning, with a high ERA and four consecutive losses. The Blue Jays possess offensive firepower, but their season hinges on these key pitchers regaining their All-Star caliber and finding a reliable fifth starter to complement the rotation.

The 2026 T-Mobile All-Star Home Run Derby is scheduled for Monday, July 13, at 8 PM ET, broadcasting live from Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia on Netflix. Eight sluggers will vie for a $1 Million first prize under a new format, eliminating timers and "outs," allowing 20 swings in the first round and 15 in later rounds. The field includes Munetaka Murakami, Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Jordan Walker, Willson Contreras, Jac Caglianone, Ben Rice, and Junior Caminero. Phillies stars Schwarber and Harper will compete at home, with Harper being a past winner. Junior Caminero, last year's runner-up, could become the youngest champion. This exciting event kicks off All-Star Week, preceding the August 3rd trade deadline.

St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Jordan Walker dramatically won the T-Mobile Home Run Derby, hitting 12 homers to defeat Kyle Schwarber and claim the $1 million prize. This victory instantly cemented his status as the Cardinals' undisputed leader, transforming the team into "Jordan Walker's team." After a promising rookie year, Walker faced significant struggles and demotions in 2024-2025, battling swing issues. However, his 2026 season marks a remarkable renaissance, earning him an All-Star nod with 22 home runs and an MLB-leading 74 RBIs. This Derby triumph is now seen as a pivotal moment, potentially igniting a playoff push for the 50-45 Cardinals and solidifying Walker's profound personal and professional turnaround.

Bernie Pleskoff, Contributor On the last swing of the night, St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Jordan Walker won the T Mobile Home Run Derby.

The Cleveland Guardians are tied with the Chicago White Sox for the division lead. The Guardians, White Sox, Tigers, and Twins all have a shot at winning the American League Central. sports.yahoo was upbeat about the Guardians first half.

Bernie Pleskoff, Contributor The Cleveland Guardians must address their anemic offense with some urgency.

The New York Yankees, currently in a heated AL East pennant race, are actively seeking to upgrade their roster at third base, shortstop, and catcher. An old scout has identified several key trade targets to bolster the team. For third base, options include Rafael Devers of the Giants, a left-handed power hitter who could also serve as a designated hitter, and Isaac Paredes from the Astros, a versatile, clutch contact hitter with significant pop. At shortstop, Zach Neto of the Angels offers excellent defense and offensive upside, while Willy Adames from the Giants provides power and quality defense. Catching targets include Hunter Goodman of the Rockies, a powerful right-handed hitter, and Tyler Stephenson from the Reds, known for his steady, capable play on both offense and defense. These strategic acquisitions aim to strengthen the Yankees' roster for their championship aspirations.

The St. Louis Cardinals have two pitchers, Dustin May and Ryne Stanek, drawing significant trade interest from playoff-contending teams as the deadline nears. Both right-handers are on expiring contracts, making them attractive free-agent-to-be options. Dustin May, a 28-year-old starting pitcher, is considered a major prize, boasting a diverse six-pitch arsenal and a career 3.99 ERA. He's currently on a $12.5 million deal. Ryne Stanek, a 35-year-old veteran reliever, offers valuable high-leverage bullpen support or potential starting experience, featuring a 97 MPH fastball and a 4.25 ERA this season. His $3.5 million contract includes a 2027 team option, making both valuable assets for teams seeking to bolster their pitching staff.

Bernie Pleskoff, Contributor The Cleveland Guardians have made a trade for outfielder Blake Perkins and relief pitcher Craig Yoho

The Cleveland Guardians promoted highly-touted infielder Angel Genao to their 26-man roster on August 5, designating Gabriel Arias for assignment. This move is part of the Guardians' ongoing effort to bolster their struggling offense, which has frequently left runners stranded. Genao, a 22-year-old switch-hitter, is known for his exceptional contact hitting, pitch recognition, and defensive versatility across second, short, and third base. Despite a lack of power, the No. 2 prospect boasts a career minor league average of .291 and was hitting .309 at Triple-A Columbus. The Guardians hope Genao's ability to hit for average and doubles will provide a much-needed spark to their lineup. He is expected to see significant playing time, especially at third base when Jose Ramirez rests.