Bernie Pleskoff

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.

The Atlanta Braves are surging in the NL East, emerging as a formidable challenger to the Dodgers for National League supremacy. Their consistent success stems from a powerful, deep lineup, notably enhanced by Ronald Acuna Jr.'s return from injury, adding significant power and speed. Key hitters like Drake Baldwin, Matt Olson, Michael Harris Jr., and Ozzie Albies provide a relentless offensive threat. Despite a rash of pitching injuries, the Braves' rotation has adapted, relying on ace Chris Sale and veteran acquisitions like Tyler Mahle and Martin Perez. Their bullpen, anchored by Raisel Iglesias and featuring multiple left-handers, offers crucial late-game relief. This well-balanced and resilient Braves squad is clearly built for a deep postseason run.

Bernie Pleskoff, Contributor The New York Yankees could lose second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr . in the 2027 free agent class. This year, his last before he can file for free agency, Chisholm Jr. is playing on a 1 year, $10.2 million contract.

Bernie Pleskoff, Contributor Chicago Cubs centerfielder, Pete Crow-Armstrong , is a legitimate contender for the National League 2026 Most Valuable Player.

Bernie Pleskoff, Contributor Chicago Cubs centerfielder, Pete Crow-Armstrong , is a legitimate contender for the National League 2026 Most Valuable Player.

Hitting a lead-off homer, and then a walk-off homer in the same game just strengthened the Cubs' Pete-Crow Armstrong's Case for NL Most Valuable Player

Left-hander, Tarik Skubal is still getting acclimated to pitching for the World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers

Bernie Pleskoff, Contributor CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - AUGUST 8: Jo Adell #7 of the Cleveland Guardians rounds the bases against the Chicago White