The Boston Red Sox are close to finalizing a significant eight-year, $130 million contract extension with 21-year-old outfielder Roman Anthony. The deal, which includes a team option, would keep Anthony under club control until at least 2034, with potential escalators raising the total value to $230 million based on performance metrics such as All-Star selections. Anthony, a former top prospect, has impressed in his rookie season, slashing .283/.400/.428 with 15 doubles and strong exit velocity numbers, making him a strong candidate for Rookie of the Year.

Since his promotion in June, Anthony's performance has contributed to the Red Sox's resurgence, propelling them back into playoff contention after a rocky start. They currently occupy a wild card spot in the AL, trailing the Blue Jays by just three games in the AL East. This extension follows a tumultuous period for the Red Sox, including the controversial trade of Rafael Devers, signaling a positive shift towards locking in promising young talent like Anthony, along with other future stars on the roster.

As the MLB season heats up, now is the perfect time for fantasy baseball enthusiasts to engage in dynasty trades. For contenders, targeting players from rebuilding teams can significantly enhance your roster. Notably, players like Eugenio Suárez, George Springer, and Carlos Rodón are valuable trade candidates.

Additionally, younger players on the verge of breakout seasons are worth acquiring for future success. Catcher Drake Baldwin of the Atlanta Braves has been quietly impressive this season, boasting a 132 WRC+ with solid offensive metrics. Addison Barger of the Toronto Blue Jays is another prospect poised for a strong second half, showing elite contact ability and power potential. Meanwhile, Kansas City Royals’ Jac Caglianone may be a buy-low target following a slow start, but his underlying metrics suggest potential for a rebound. For rebuilders, players like Jordan Lawlar, Joe Boyle, and Denzel Clarke hold substantial future value despite current struggles, making them ideal targets for teams looking to build for the long term.

The MLB All-Star Game has sparked significant debate this season, particularly regarding the selection process. Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo described the system as 'broken,' suggesting it prioritizes team representation over the best players in the league. The Phillies expressed dissatisfaction over the exclusion of pitchers Ranger Suárez and Cristopher Sánchez, while Brewers rookie Jacob Misiorowski's selection was met with mixed reactions, despite his impressive performance.

Manager Dave Roberts emphasized the importance of fan excitement, supporting Misiorowski's inclusion. Players generally agree that adding fresh talent, like a rookie with limited experience, is beneficial for the game's appeal. However, the longstanding rule requiring each team to have a representative continues to be a contentious issue. While some players see it as a way to maintain fan engagement, others argue it leads to deserving players being overlooked.

USC Baseball has made an impact during the MLB draft, with three players selected, solidifying their talent pool for the upcoming seasons. Pitcher Caden Hunter was picked by the Baltimore Orioles in the sixth round after a season where he recorded a 5.50 ERA and 6 wins. Infielder Bryce Martin-Grudzielanek followed in the 20th round, chosen by the New York Yankees. Despite being drafted last year by the Blue Jays but opting not to sign, he returned for another year at USC where he hit .294 with eight home runs. The draft signing deadline looms on July 28, leaving these players with crucial decisions regarding their futures.

As stolen bases surge across the league, identifying the right players to target for fantasy teams becomes increasingly critical. Tracking teams and pitchers prone to allowing stolen bases is key to maximizing speed on fantasy rosters. Recently, Chandler Simpson has returned to the majors and quickly established himself as a dangerous base stealer, adding three stolen bases to his tally last week.

Dane Myers led the charge with five stolen bases, while José Caballero is setting the pace for the season with 30 steals. The Baltimore Orioles recently became a prime target for stolen bases with Adley Rutschman sidelined, allowing nine steals in just one week. This vulnerability makes Orioles players particularly enticing for fantasy managers looking to capitalize on a favorable matchup.