The Cubs and White Sox are currently at starkly different ends of the spectrum, as one team aims for the playoffs while the other wallows at the bottom of the standings. The Cubs find themselves in second place, fueled by optimism as they flirt with a winning record nearing 20 games over .500. This newfound hope is largely attributed to the impressive performances of players like Kyle Tucker, Nico Hoerner, and rookie Cade Horton, who have stepped up in crucial moments. Meanwhile, the White Sox, languishing near the bottom of the rankings, draw solace from the misfortunes of teams like the Rockies and Nationals, celebrating their struggles as a small victory in disappointment.

Among those sparking hope for the Sox are pitcher Shane Smith and catcher Kyle Teel, whose potential could inspire fans in the wake of a disappointing season. Their development is critical as Sox fans look for any silver lining for the future. As the Cubs aim for October baseball, decisions from manager Craig Counsell will be pivotal, as the clock ticks down on the trade deadline. This Chicago baseball season encapsulates a tale of two cities, highlighting the contrasting journeys of these franchises as they navigate towards their respective futures.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have made several roster changes due to injuries, placing infielder Pavin Smith on the 10-day injured list with a strained right oblique. Smith has been a solid contributor with a .261 batting average, eight homers, and 28 RBIs over 79 games. To fill his spot, the Diamondbacks recalled infielder Tristan English from Triple-A Reno. Additionally, the team placed right-hander Ryan Thompson on the 15-day injured list with a scapular strain, retroactive to Saturday, and also recalled right-hander Bryce Jarvis. Tommy Henry has been added to the 60-day injured list due to a right elbow injury.

The Arizona Diamondbacks bolstered their roster ahead of a critical series against the Kansas City Royals by placing Ryan Thompson on the 15-day injured list due to a scapular strain. Thompson had been a reliable option, allowing only two runs over 17 appearances since May 23. In response, the Diamondbacks recalled Bryce Jarvis from Triple-A Reno, providing additional depth in the bullpen.

Starting pitcher Anthony DeSclafani is set to make his debut for the Diamondbacks, having transitioned from the San Francisco Giants. He had a shaky start to the season but can offer a fastball averaging 94.1 mph, complemented by a strong slider. Meanwhile, the Royals will counter with Michael Lorenzen, who has struggled recently with a 6.88 ERA in his last seven starts.

Fantasy baseball auction drafts provide a unique opportunity to build a balanced roster without the restrictions of a snake draft. In this environment, savvy managers can capitalize on undervalued pitchers, particularly those with average auction values (AAV) under $10. Targeting these players can significantly enhance your chances of success in the 2025 season.

Players like Jared Jones from the Pittsburgh Pirates offer plenty of upside with a $9 AAV, showcasing a potent strikeout rate despite needing improvement in run prevention. Similarly, veterans like Kenley Jansen of the Los Angeles Angels, now valued at $7, bring closing experience and potential saves, making him a wise investment. Reynaldo Lopez, with his impressive 2024 season still fresh in memory, commands a mere $7 AAV. Meanwhile, Nick Pivetta is likely to thrive in a new environment with the Padres for just $6. Finally, Taj Bradley's potential at a $5 AAV makes him an intriguing option for those looking to bolster their pitching depth.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are well-equipped with starting pitchers as they approach the 2025 season, which may lead to innovative strategies for utilizing their depth. With five established starters and promising prospects, the team faces a decision regarding Drey Jameson, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Jameson, expected to return by Spring Training, may transition to a relief role instead of starting, given his extended absence from competitive play. The Diamondbacks have already experimented with him in the bullpen, and his previous performances suggest he could adapt well to this new position.