The New York Mets are facing a weather delay for their series opener against the Kansas City Royals, with no specific start time announced yet. This matchup marks the Mets' final games before the All-Star break, creating significance for players looking to end the first half on a high note. Kondai Senga is slated to pitch for New York, returning from the injured list after a strong season. The outcome of this game could impact the Mets' momentum as they aim to solidify their position in the playoff race.

As the Toronto Blue Jays approach the trade deadline, speculation grows about the potential for significant roster changes reminiscent of their 2015 transformation. In that year, then-GM Alex Anthopoulos made bold moves, acquiring key players like Troy Tulowitzki and David Price, which propelled the team to the postseason. With current GM Ross Atkins's job seemingly on the line, the Jays find themselves in a similar situation, although they currently lead their division instead of trailing.

Management faces a crucial decision: whether to part with top prospects like Arjun Nimmala or Trey Yesavage in pursuit of immediate impact players. The pros and cons of trading for someone like Mitch Keller from the Pittsburgh Pirates have been debated, with Keller seen as a solid option but not necessarily a game-changer. The focus could also shift towards more affordable options like Kansas City’s Seth Lugo or Arizona's Eugenio Suarez to bolster the lineup and keep pace with rivals like the New York Yankees.

Riley Quick, an Alabama right-hander, has emerged as a top prospect in the 2025 MLB Draft after a stellar season. He finished with an 8-3 record, a 3.92 ERA, and 70 strikeouts over 62 innings, showcasing his recovery from Tommy John surgery.

Projections for Quick's draft position vary, with ESPN predicting a second-round selection by the Kansas City Royals, while other analysts foresee him being picked as high as No. 26 by the Philadelphia Phillies or No. 39 by the New York Yankees. His impressive size and high-velocity sinker make him a valuable addition to any team.

The Texas Rangers will be without their ace, Jacob deGrom, at the upcoming MLB All-Star Game in Atlanta after he was named to the American League team. The team announced that deGrom, who has had a stellar season with a 2.29 ERA and 9-2 record, will be replaced by Kansas City Royals pitcher Carlos Estévez. Although deGrom will not pitch, he plans to attend the game and participate in the festivities. This marks the first time since 2017 that the Rangers will not have a representative at the All-Star game, highlighting deGrom's significance to the club.

DeGrom, who last appeared in an All-Star game in 2019, has struggled with injuries in recent years. Despite his absence from the All-Star lineup, he has had his healthiest season with the Rangers, starting 18 games. The decision for him to skip the game appears prudent as he prepares for a crucial game against Houston the following Saturday.

The Houston Astros have surged past expectations this season, taking a commanding seven-game lead in the AL West over the Seattle Mariners. Despite this success, the Astros face pressing issues, particularly in their starting rotation, which has been heavily impacted by injuries. The situation is exacerbated by Framber Valdez's looming free agency at the end of the year, which raises questions about his future with the team.

Tim Kelly from Bleacher Report suggests that the Astros should consider acquiring Seth Lugo from the Kansas City Royals. Lugo, with a solid 2.67 ERA and 6-5 record in 17 starts, could add depth to a rotation that currently lacks reliable options beyond Valdez and Hunter Brown. A rotation that includes Lugo would not only enhance their playoff prospects but could also solidify their chances of capturing another World Series title.