Bernie Pleskoff

The Chicago Cubs made an early move in the MLB trading season, acquiring veteran left-handed pitcher David Peterson, 30, from the New York Mets. In exchange, the Mets received prospect first baseman/designated hitter Cole Mathis, 22. This trade addresses the Cubs' urgent need for starting pitching, as their rotation is severely depleted by multiple injuries, including Matthew Boyd, Ben Brown, and Justin Steele. Peterson, a former Mets All-Star in 2025, brings National League experience, despite having a challenging 2026 season with a 6.09 ERA. Mathis, a former second-round pick by the Cubs, is a corner infielder with raw power and a strong arm, though he is currently on the Injured List and has a lower prospect ranking. The Cubs hope Peterson can stabilize their rotation, while the Mets gain a developing, albeit injured, prospect.

The Cleveland Guardians are grappling with significant injuries to key offensive players Jose Ramirez and Angel Martinez, who remain sidelined after a single game saw three stars injured. While Chase DeLauter has returned, the team's scoring challenges have necessitated relying on promising prospects. This led to the promotion of young talents like Cooper Ingle and, notably, outfielder Kahlil Watson. Watson, a former Marlins first-round pick acquired in a 2023 trade, has been outstanding since his June 17 call-up, showcasing versatile skills. Scouts project Watson, a Grade 60 prospect, as a future All-Star due to his powerful hitting, speed, and exceptional defense across multiple positions, providing a much-needed boost.

The Cleveland Guardians are grappling with a significant offensive imbalance, heavily skewed towards left-handed hitters, which leaves them vulnerable against opposing left-handed pitching. With the August 3 trade deadline fast approaching, the team is urgently looking to acquire right-handed bats to bolster their lineup. This report highlights seven potential trade targets, each offering a blend of power, speed, or positional flexibility, alongside favorable contract control. Addressing this critical roster deficiency is paramount for Cleveland to enhance their run production and overall competitiveness, though securing these upgrades will likely involve complex trade negotiations.

Bernie Pleskoff, Contributor The Cleveland Guardians have very few pure right-handed hitters in their organization.

The New York Yankees have just lost left-handed starter, Carlos Rodon to injury. Rodon, 33, is now disabled with elbow inflammation.

The St. Louis Cardinals may make the Los Angeles Dodgers even stronger. The Dodgers have more wins than any team in Major League Baseball. There is little debate the Dodgers have complete and impressive roster.

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.