Hunter Brown has made significant strides this season, now projected as a top-tier starting pitcher with an impressive 1.82 ERA and a 32.1% strikeout rate. His improved performance is attributed to enhanced pitch quality and increased velocity on his fastball. Cristopher Sanchez of the Phillies also sees his stock rise as he showcases his skills as a frontline starter, notably improving his strikeout rate to 26.2% while maintaining elite control. Meanwhile, Jacob Misiorowski, despite mixed projections across different systems, shows promise with a dominant strikeout rate and elite velocity, while Quinn Priester's success stems from effective command of his sinker and groundball rate.

On a different note, Roki Sasaki's projections have dipped significantly due to poor performance in the MLB, raising concerns about his transition from overseas leagues. Sean Burke and Jeffrey Springs also face challenges, with each struggling to maintain their previous levels of effectiveness, leading to lowered expectations for the remainder of the season.

In a recent game, Houston Astros center fielder Jake Meyers was forced to exit early due to tightness in his right calf. This came during a 5-1 victory against the Los Angeles Dodgers, where Meyers played five innings before being replaced for precautionary measures. Manager Joe Espada noted that Meyers had been playing hard, leading to the decision to prioritize his health.

Prior to this game, Meyers had not been out of the starting lineup since early June and had been performing well, boasting a .307 batting average, only second to Jeremy Peña on the team. His absence could impact the Astros, as he is seen as a key player in their offense. Taylor Trammell took over in center field after Meyers' departure, making a critical catch that helped secure the win.

The Los Angeles Dodgers faced off against the Houston Astros, dropping the first two games of their weekend series, with a risk of being swept in the Sunday finale. Adding to their woes, manager Dave Roberts confirmed that outfielder Teoscar Hernández would miss the final game due to a foot injury sustained while fouling a pitch. Hernández, who had a stellar 2024 season and received a three-year, $66 million extension, has seen a slight dip in performance this year but still contributes significantly with 14 home runs and 56 RBIs. Additionally, utility player Tommy Edman is also sidelined with an injury. The Dodgers will rely on several young players in their lineup, including rookie Hyeseong Kim and prospect Dalton Rushing, as they attempt to salvage a victory against their rivals.

The 2025 MLB All-Star Game roster reveals an exciting mix of established stars and fresh talent. Leading the American League is Houston Astros ace Hunter Brown, boasting a league-best 1.82 ERA. He’s joined by fan favorites like Aaron Judge and Gleyber Torres, alongside emerging talents like Jonathan Aranda of the Tampa Bay Rays, who is hitting .320 with an .879 OPS.

On the National League side, Ronald Acuña Jr. and Freddie Freeman represent the Los Angeles Dodgers, while newcomers James Wood, a 6-foot-7 outfielder for the Washington Nationals, is making his All-Star debut after leading NL outfielders with a .943 OPS. With player injuries looming, the stage is set for potential replacements, adding to the All-Star Game's drama.