The decline of the curveball in Major League Baseball (MLB) is stark, with usage plummeting over 20,000 pitches annually as teams prioritize velocity. In 2024, the Oakland Athletics utilized curveballs on just 2.5% of pitches, mirroring a league-wide drop from 10.7% in 2019 to 8.5% this season. This shift is attributed to a preference for harder, more deceptive pitches like sliders and cutters, which are easier for pitchers to throw instead of traditional 12-6 curveballs.

Pitchers like Tampa Bay’s Shane Baz and Baltimore’s Charlie Morton are among the few still using curves, with Morton at the forefront with a 39% usage. The average velocity of curves has also dropped, resulting in a .225 batting average against this pitch, compared to faster pitches. With the average four-seam fastball velocity reaching a record 94.4 mph this season, scouting now heavily favors speed over pitch variety. As a result, the art of throwing a curveball is becoming a rarity in modern baseball.

Jacob Calvin Meyer and Matt Weyrich continue to impress with their coverage of the Baltimore Orioles, providing fans with critical insights on the team's performance, injury updates, and the latest draft picks. Their work is complemented by contributions from fellow writers Sam Cohn and Taylor Lyons, who also deliver top-notch content. Together, they keep the pulse of Birdland alive, ensuring fans are well-informed and engaged with every aspect of the franchise's developments.

The addition of top prospects and ongoing updates foster an environment of excitement among the fan base, promoting discussions about potential future stars like Ike Irish, selected as the 19th pick, and others on the farm system. This level of comprehensive coverage is not just appreciated; it’s vital for fans looking to grasp the direction and potential of the team.

The Upton brothers, Justin and B.J., hold the record as the highest-drafted siblings in MLB history, a title nearly challenged by Ethan Holliday. Although projected to go first overall, Holliday was selected fourth by the Colorado Rockies, joining his brother, Jackson, who was the first overall pick in 2022. Justin Upton was selected first by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2005, while B.J. followed as the second pick by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in 2002. Their achievement surpasses the Young brothers, Dmitri and Delmon, who were drafted four years apart.

B.J. Upton had a notable career, playing over 1,400 games with a .243 batting average, while Justin became a significant power hitter, finishing his career with 325 home runs and a robust .262 average. Both brothers played for the Atlanta Braves during their prime years, showcasing a formidable family legacy in Major League Baseball.

The MLB All-Star Break isn't just about the festivities; it signifies the onset of intense trade speculation as executives scramble to bolster their rosters before the deadline. The New York Yankees are eyeing Eugenio Suárez, whose powerful stats could add much-needed energy to their lineup. The Yankees' recent struggles have made this trade particularly appealing.

The Chicago Cubs are shifting focus from Sandy Alcantara to Mitch Keller, whose consistent performance positions him as a safer option to strengthen their playoff rotation. Meanwhile, the Seattle Mariners are gearing up to acquire Josh Naylor, enhancing their first base productivity as they chase postseason aspirations.

The Detroit Tigers are looking at David Bednar to bolster a struggling bullpen, while the San Diego Padres may target Jarren Duran to improve their outfield. The New York Mets want to shed Luis Robert’s contract, viewing him as a gamble worth taking. Additionally, the Houston Astros are interested in Cedric Mullins for added depth. Each of these trades could reshape playoff scenarios significantly.

Joseph Dzierwa, a left-handed pitcher from Michigan State University, was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the second round, marking the highest selection for an MSU pitcher in 27 years. He recorded an impressive 8-3 record with a 2.36 ERA and 104 strikeouts this spring, contributing to his strong collegiate performance. Dzierwa also garnered numerous accolades, including First-Team All-America honors from multiple organizations and Big Ten Pitcher of the Year.

This achievement highlights Dzierwa's exceptional skills and potential as he joins a list of notable Spartans drafted in recent years. His performance and academic achievements make him a standout prospect for MLB teams looking for talented pitchers.