The USC Trojans had an eventful MLB Draft, with three players making the leap to professional baseball. Ethan Hedges, a dual-player and the No. 159 overall prospect, was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the third round at pick No. 77. Caden Hunter, a left-handed pitcher and the No. 149 prospect, followed in the sixth round when the Baltimore Orioles selected him with pick No. 184.

In a surprising turn, shortstop Bryce Martin-Grudzielanek was chosen by the New York Yankees with the second-to-last pick in the 20th round (No. 614). This marks a repeat of his situation last year when the Toronto Blue Jays drafted him; however, he opted to return to USC. Last season, Martin-Grudzielanek showcased his potential, posting impressive stats with a .294 batting average, 44 runs, and 41 RBIs, along with eight home runs and nine stolen bases.

The 2025 MLB All-Star Game promises to be a thrilling matchup held at Truist Park, featuring a high-stakes duel between Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers. Skenes is making his second consecutive start in the All-Star Game, showcasing his prowess against a formidable American League lineup, including MVP-caliber players like Aaron Judge and Gleyber Torres. The National League, managed by Dave Roberts of the Dodgers, boasts stars like Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuña Jr., making this a contest not to be missed.

Fans can tune in on July 15 at 8:00 p.m. ET via Fox or stream it on Fubo. Betting odds favor the NL at -118, reflecting their strength with three top-ranked teams by run differential. Predictions lean toward a close contest, with excitement building around the potential for standout performances, especially from bench players like Hunter Goodman of the Rockies.

The all-star break presents a critical moment for fantasy baseball managers to reassess their teams and consider stashing promising prospects for the second half of the season. A number of top prospects have had notable performances in the first half, providing a glimpse into their potential impact for 2025. Among them, Spencer Jones of the New York Yankees has emerged as a standout, showcasing a remarkable power surge in Triple-A with impressive stats: seven home runs, six steals, and a .362 batting average over his last 14 games. His ability to hit for power in Yankee Stadium makes him a tantalizing option, albeit with some strikeout concerns.

Owen Caissie of the Chicago Cubs is another prospect to monitor, as he has demonstrated significant improvements at the plate with a .333 average and 30-homer potential. However, his path to the majors might be blocked by established outfielders unless trades happen. Zac Veen of the Colorado Rockies and Bubba Chandler and Hunter Barco from the Pittsburgh Pirates also command attention as they continue to progress in their respective minor leagues. The next few months could be pivotal for these players as they seek opportunities for major league call-ups.

The 2025 MLB Draft marked a significant milestone for two standout baseball players from Nebraska. Nolan Sailors, an outfielder from Creighton, was selected by the Kansas City Royals in the fourth round at No. 128 overall. Sailors showcased exceptional skills in college, hitting .389 with six home runs and 44 RBIs. Meanwhile, Luke Broderick, a right-handed pitcher from Nebraska, was picked up by the Colorado Rockies in the 14th round at No. 407. Broderick's impressive performance included 13 saves and a 3.25 ERA this season.

Sailors' notable high school achievements included being named all-Nebraska and making the Super State first team after an impressive senior year at Ralston High School. Broderick also set records during his high school career and continued to excel in college. Their selections signal bright futures in Major League Baseball.

The Chicago Cubs hold the sixth-best bullpen ERA in MLB, but depth is crucial for postseason success. With teams like the Colorado Rockies potentially selling, the Cubs are eyeing Jake Bird, a promising reliever with a 3.62 ERA and a remarkable 1.71 ERA at home this season. Despite playing most of his games at Coors Field, Bird has proven effective, making him an attractive trade target for contenders.

FanSided’s Nick Villano predicts Bird could be a key acquisition for the Cubs, bolstering their bullpen as they lead the National League Central. Enhancing relief pitching depth is vital, especially given the Cubs' struggles with starting pitcher injuries. Adding Bird would provide the Cubs with a young, controllable asset crucial for a deep playoff run.