As the MLB trade deadline approaches, savvy fantasy baseball players should keep a close eye on potential closer-closing changes and stash some high-potential relief pitchers. Jason Adam of the San Diego Padres, with a standout ERA of 1.69, is the top handcuff to monitor, especially given Robert Suarez's recent struggles. Similarly, Randy Rodriguez of the San Francisco Giants is poised for a possible promotion should Camilo Doval falter. Griffin Jax from the Minnesota Twins and Bryan Abreu of the Houston Astros also boast impressive strikeout rates and are positioned well should their teams' closers be traded or falter. Stashing these pitchers could lead to valuable saves down the stretch.

Otto Kemp, an undrafted free agent, recently made his first big league start in left field for the Philadelphia Phillies after playing only seven games in the position at Triple-A this season. Veteran reporter Jim Salisbury believes Kemp's right-handed bat is a valuable addition to the struggling lineup, emphasizing the team's need for a solid hitting option. While Kemp has shown promise at the plate, his ability to adapt to left field remains a significant challenge as the trade deadline approaches.

The Phillies' regulars in left have struggled, with Max Kepler's performance against left-handed pitchers suffering in particular. Kemp is expected to share left field duties with Kepler in the upcoming series against left-handed starters in Houston, indicating a crucial moment for both players and the team’s playoff aspirations.

For today's MLB betting opportunities, focus on two key matchups featuring talented left-handed pitchers who have demonstrated strong performances against weaker opponents. The Philadelphia Phillies take on the Miami Marlins, where Ranger Suárez is expected to excel. With a stellar 2.32 ERA and 1.07 WHIP, Suárez has proven to be particularly formidable on the road and at Loan Depot Park, where Marlins batters struggle against lefties. Expect him to record over 18.5 outs.

Meanwhile, the Detroit Tigers face the struggling Pittsburgh Pirates, with Tarik Skubal on the mound. Skubal boasts an impressive 1.99 ERA and has shown dominance at home, making him a prime candidate for an under on hits allowed. Given the Pirates' poor showing against lefties this season, expect a tough outing for them against Skubal.

Ryan Noda, a lifelong Chicago White Sox fan, has finally realized his childhood dream after being acquired off waivers from the Boston Red Sox. Following the trade of Andrew Vaughn and Tim Elko's demotion, Noda is poised for regular playing time at first base. Despite starting his Sox career with two hitless games, Noda expressed excitement about playing for his hometown team with family in attendance.

Manager Will Venable noted the team's offensive struggles and highlighted Noda's skill set as a key addition to help improve their performance against right-handed pitchers. Meanwhile, Mike Tauchman, despite limited starts, has garnered significant All-Star Game fan support, currently ranking third among AL designated hitters. Edmundo Sosa's return from injury also adds depth to a struggling lineup, but whether Noda can maintain his spot on the team remains uncertain.

In a mix of good and bad news for the Philadelphia Phillies, second baseman Bryson Stott makes a return to the lineup after a scare with his right elbow. Meanwhile, outfielder Nick Castellanos, who has been a mainstay in the lineup, will sit out due to comments made to manager Rob Thomson that were deemed inappropriate. Castellanos has been crucial to the team's offense, boasting a .278 batting average with seven home runs this season. With Castellanos sidelined, Max Kepler, who's been heating up, will take his place in right field. Kepler is hitting .333 with two home runs in his last seven games. Brandon Marsh will continue to hold down left field while Johan Rojas gets the start in center.