Brooks Baldwin showcased his aggressive approach in the second inning, capitalizing on a first-pitch fastball from Shane Baz for a three-run homer, propelling the Chicago White Sox to an 8-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays. Following Baldwin's lead, Miguel Vargas added a two-run blast, contributing to a strong offensive showing with the Sox scoring at least seven runs for the fourth consecutive game since the All-Star break. Manager Will Venable praised the team's successful hitting strategies, emphasizing their collective effort in achieving this season-high winning streak.

Sean Burke, the Sox starter, navigated the heat to deliver an effective performance, allowing only two runs (none earned) while striking out five batters. Despite his four-inning outing, he expressed frustration over not being able to pitch longer with such a strong offensive backing. Meanwhile, Chase Meidroth stood out with a 4-for-5 performance, including three doubles, marking a notable night for the rookie, who became the first Sox player since 1980 to achieve such a feat.

The Cleveland Guardians are gearing up for the 2025 MLB Draft with the 27th overall pick following a successful 2024 season that saw them reach the ALCS. The Guardians have an impressive history of draft picks, with numerous selections making significant contributions to the franchise. From Chase DeLauter, who is on the cusp of his MLB debut, to the likes of Francisco Lindor and Shane Bieber, the Guardians' drafting strategy has produced stars that shaped the team's competitive edge.

As they prepare to add five new players in the first three rounds of the upcoming draft, the Guardians reflect on their top ten draft selections since 2000. Key mentions in this ranking include Triston McKenzie, who was once a rookie sensation before facing injury issues, and Steven Kwan, a standout who has become an All-Star. The list highlights the importance of scouting and development in building a successful roster.

As the All-Star break approaches, identifying potential fantasy baseball breakouts is key for managers looking to bolster their rosters. This week, focus on four players who are heating up and might be available on the waiver wire. Ramon Laureano of the Baltimore Orioles leads the charge with a stellar .349 average and a 1.010 OPS over the last two weeks. Meanwhile, Cincinnati's Austin Hays and Oakland's Max Muncy are also making strides, albeit with varying degrees of consistency. Chicago White Sox's Brooks Baldwin rounds out the list, showcasing promise with significant improvements.

Drake Baldwin, the Atlanta Braves catcher, has rebounded from a sluggish start to post a compelling .340 batting average with five home runs in just 104 plate appearances. Despite mixed scouting reports, Baldwin's advanced approach at the plate and solid minor league performance suggests he can maintain fantasy relevance. Meanwhile, Marcelo Mayer of the Boston Red Sox has made his MLB debut but is still searching for his footing after a lackluster minor league career. His batting tools lack the expected power, raising concerns about his long-term fantasy value.

The Chicago White Sox have activated Austin Slater from the injured list, with the outfielder returning after recovering from a meniscus tear in his right knee. Slater had surgery on April 15 and made a quick recovery, allowing him to return to the field earlier than expected. He made his presence felt during a rehab assignment, hitting .385 in four games. The team optioned Brooks Baldwin to Triple-A Charlotte to make room for Slater on the roster.

In his early return, Slater hit .250 with one home run across his first eight games this season with the White Sox. Both Slater and manager Will Venable expressed the importance of getting back into the lineup to contribute, especially as the team aims to solidify their outfield depth. Baldwin, who had a hit rate of .215 with three homers and 16 RBIs, will gain additional playing time in the minors as he continues to develop.