Returning from Tommy John surgery isn’t always as smooth as anticipated. While players often regain their pre-injury form eventually, the initial recovery can be turbulent. Sandy Alcantara and Felix Bautista have faced significant struggles, while Shane McClanahan hasn’t returned to the mound yet. Emerging talents like Emmet Sheehan, however, showed promise in his recent debut, dominating with six strikeouts in just four innings against the Padres. His fastball velocity remained consistent, and he even showcased an improved changeup. Despite this encouraging performance, caution is advised as the Dodgers will monitor his workload. In deeper leagues, he might be worth a bench spot for his potential upside.

Additionally, players like Chase Burns and Nick Kurtz are making waves in the minors, suggesting they could be impactful additions to rosters soon. Jo Adell is also heating up, hitting his 12th home run since May. For now, seeking these emerging players is a smart strategy as the season progresses.

Thursday's MLB DFS slate features five exciting divisional matchups, kicking off at 6:40 p.m. ET, including the Phillies against the Marlins. With favorable hitting conditions projected at Sutter Health Park during the Astros and Athletics clash, fantasy managers should prioritize hitters from this game. The analysis highlights key pitchers like Spencer Strider, who recently showed remarkable form, alongside Cristopher Sanchez and Charlie Morton, who are also poised to make an impact. Sleeper picks include Gunnar Henderson and Jose Altuve, who are both on hot streaks and are well-positioned to capitalize on their matchups. The article emphasizes the importance of monitoring lineups and weather updates, particularly for the Tampa Bay game.

The Baltimore Orioles entered the 2025 MLB season with optimism, ranked No. 9 in preseason power rankings. Unfortunately, their reality became grim, with a dismal 30-41 record, leading to the dismissal of manager Brandon Hyde and the appointment of interim manager Tony Mansolino. Recent reports indicate the team struggles, holding the fourth-worst run differential and a mediocre lineup. However, promising performances from Jackson Holliday, hitting .255 with eight home runs, and Cedric Mullins, leading the team with 12 homers, provide fans with a glimmer of hope.

Despite their current position, the Orioles’ bullpen has shown potential, boasting a 1.76 ERA over the last 23 games, indicating improvement. Mansolino’s leadership has sparked a brief turnaround, with the team winning 12 of their last 17 games. If they can maintain this momentum, they may enter the discussion for an American League wild-card spot.

The Baltimore Orioles' season took a disastrous turn as they suffered a crushing 12-8 defeat to the Tampa Bay Rays, despite holding an 8-0 lead in the second inning. This marked a significant setback for a team that had playoff aspirations after a strong 101-win season two years ago. The loss tied a Rays record for the largest comeback, with the Orioles notably blowing their biggest lead since 2017. After a brief resurgence with a six-game winning streak, the Orioles now face a precarious situation with their playoff odds hovering around 8% and major pitching issues looming.

With the MLB trade deadline approaching, teams are eyeing potential acquisitions to bolster their rosters. Notable names on the market include Andrew Heaney of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who has thrived despite limited run support. His experience in high-stakes games makes him a desirable target for teams like the Dodgers and Cubs.

Emmanuel Clase from the Cleveland Guardians presents an enticing option for teams seeking bullpen reinforcement, as he appears to have regained his form. Meanwhile, Ryan O'Hearn's stellar season with the Baltimore Orioles could help a contender looking for offensive firepower.

The Arizona Diamondbacks' Eugenio Suárez and Chris Sale of the Atlanta Braves are also on the radar, with both players capable of significantly impacting a playoff chase. Additionally, St. Louis Cardinals' Ryan Helsley and Arizona's Josh Naylor have caught the attention of teams looking for infield and closing solutions, making this trade season particularly thrilling.