As we approach the trade deadline, maximizing your fantasy baseball roster with two-start pitchers is critical. For Week 18 (July 28 to August 3, 2025), several pitchers with favorable matchups can be valuable assets for streamers. The first segment highlights noteworthy two-start pitchers who are over 50% rostered, such as Max Fried and Chris Bassitt, who deliver consistent performances.

Additionally, Edward Cabrera (41% rostered) emerges as a prime streamer, boasting a 3.48 ERA and a multidimensional pitch arsenal. Patrick Corbin, with a recent resurgence, holds a commendable 2.54 ERA in his last five starts, making him a viable option against the Angels and Mariners this week.

However, not all two-start options are advisable; Zach Eflin and Joe Boyle present varying degrees of risk against potent offenses, making them less favorable choices. Overall, savvy managers will need to weigh matchups and recent performance metrics to optimize their starting rotations in fantasy leagues.

The Mets' second half of the 2025 season began on a positive note, highlighted by Sean Manaea's return to Citi Field, where fans celebrated Juan Soto's home run. Unfortunately, the excitement quickly faded as Alex Carrillo, making just his third MLB appearance, surrendered five earned runs, contributing to an 8-4 loss against the Reds. Despite Manaea's solid outing, the Mets' bullpen faltered, leading to their inability to maintain a lead.

Carrillo's performance was marred by three home runs, all coming off fastballs, indicating a potential concern with his pitch command. Manager Carlos Mendoza's decision-making came under scrutiny as he opted not to use high-leverage relief despite the situation. The Mets' offense also struggled, raising questions about their depth and ability to compete for a Wild Card spot.

The MLB waiver wire is heating up as several players emerge as valuable fantasy options. Tyler O'Neill of the Baltimore Orioles, with a power upside, has returned from the IL but is currently hitting low numbers. Chandler Simpson of the Tampa Bay Rays has shown impressive speed, making him a solid addition for stolen bases. Evan Carter from the Texas Rangers is back and performing well, while Nolan Schanuel from the Los Angeles Angels is carving a niche for himself with good contact rates and emerging power.

Other noteworthy mentions include Tyler Freeman of the Colorado Rockies, who boasts a high batting average, and Zack Gelof of the Oakland Athletics, who brings power and speed potential. With the season progressing, these players are ones to watch as they could significantly impact fantasy rosters.

Ramón Laureano, the outfielder for the Baltimore Orioles, faced ejection during Game 1 of a doubleheader against the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday. The incident, noted as a significant moment in the game, raised questions about discipline on the field and the impact of player conduct on team performance.

This ejection could have implications for the Orioles as they navigate their doubleheader, potentially affecting their lineup and strategies in subsequent matches. Tactical adjustments may be necessary as they respond to this unexpected change.

As the Minnesota Twins' spring training continues in Fort Myers, Florida, eight standout players from the backfields have caught the attention of scouts and fans alike. Among them is Connor Prielipp, a left-handed pitcher whose performance has marked him as a top prospect, racking up an impressive strikeout rate in minor league games. His fastball consistently reached 94-97 mph, leaving hitters flailing.

Brandon Winokur, another rising star, displayed his power potential with multiple home runs and high exit velocities, while Yoel Roque, at just 18, has shown an electrifying fastball that sits at 94-95 mph. Third baseman Rayne Doncon, along with pitchers Dasan Hill and Michael Carpenter, exhibited notable skills that promise an exciting future for the Twins. Each player will start the season at various levels of the minors, keeping an eye on their trajectory toward the big leagues.