The Kansas City Royals are keenly aware of the potential impact switch-hitters can have on their lineup, as evidenced by their past success with Kendrys Morales during the 2015 World Series. With the current season proving challenging offensively, the Royals are reportedly exploring trade options to bolster their batting lineup. One name on their radar is Bryan Reynolds from the Pittsburgh Pirates, whose performance has been on an upward trend. This past season, he improved his OPS from .644 in April to .772 in June, indicating a resurgence at the plate. Although concerns exist regarding his defensive metrics, his offensive consistency from 2021 to 2024 suggests he could be an asset. However, acquiring Reynolds comes with financial implications, as he is owed $74 million through 2030, prompting the Royals to weigh their options carefully.

Clayton Kershaw etched his name into the annals of MLB history, becoming the most recent member of the illustrious 3,000-strikeout club during a thrilling walk-off victory for the Los Angeles Dodgers. His significant strikeout came against Vinny Capra in the sixth inning, showcasing Kershaw's continued dominance on the mound.

In other highlights, Wilyer Abreu of the Boston Red Sox achieved a rare feat with an inside-the-park grand slam, marking a moment not seen in Major League Baseball for nearly 67 years. Meanwhile, the New York Mets are facing potential concerns with Griffin Canning, who may have sustained an Achilles injury during a recent game against the Atlanta Braves.

However, off-field issues are also making headlines, as Tampa Bay Rays' star Wander Franco was convicted of sexual abuse against a minor in the Dominican Republic, receiving a suspended two-year prison sentence. The Kansas City Royals announced that Bobby Witt Jr. will join Aaron Judge and Paul Skenes on Team USA for the upcoming World Baseball Classic.

Wilyer Abreu of the Boston Red Sox made history with a rare accomplishment, hitting an inside-the-park grand slam during a game against the Cincinnati Reds, a feat not witnessed in 67 years. Meanwhile, the New York Mets are concerned about Griffin Canning’s possible Achilles injury sustained in their victory over the Atlanta Braves. Tampa Bay Rays star Wander Franco has been found guilty of sexual abuse involving a minor but will not serve time due to a suspended sentence. Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals is set to join Aaron Judge and Paul Skenes on Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

In other news, Arizona Diamondbacks’ Ketel Marte had an emotional moment after a fan’s taunt about his late mother during a game against the Chicago White Sox. Corbin Carroll hopes his injured list stint will be temporary, and the Diamondbacks have signed veteran catcher James McCann. Meanwhile, the Rays are facing serious allegations against Wander Franco, who is fighting charges of sexual abuse against a minor and could face prison time.

The Kansas City Royals (40-47) are set to face off against the Seattle Mariners (45-41) at T-Mobile Park. In the recent series, the Mariners captured game three with a narrow 3-2 victory, bringing the series score to 2-1 in their favor. The Royals have struggled lately, holding a 2-9 record in their last 11 games, while the Mariners have a favorable 7-4 record over the same span.

Both teams will send strong pitchers to the mound: Seth Lugo for the Royals (5-5, 2.74 ERA) and Bryan Woo for the Mariners (7-4, 2.93 ERA). Lugo recently pitched 5.2 innings allowing no earned runs, while Woo also delivered a stellar performance in his last outing, striking out nine batters.

The betting odds favor the Mariners at -156, while the Royals are at +130. The game total is set at 7 runs, with the Mariners favored to cover the 1.5-run spread. Bettors are leaning towards the over, considering the recent offensive inconsistencies of the Royals against American League teams.

Daily fantasy baseball enthusiasts have a well-structured slate ahead for Thursday, 7/3/2025, with impactful matchups and a variety of pitching options. Notable pitchers like Robbie Ray and Seth Lugo are at the forefront, offering solid strikeout potential and favorable matchups. Ray, recently coming off an injury, boasts a strong 2.75 ERA this season and has shown consistent performance against lefty-heavy lineups. Lugo, meanwhile, has been on a tear against top teams, showcasing a potent strikeout curveball.

Offensively, Bobby Witt Jr. and Addison Barger emerge as key targets. Witt is heating up with a six-game hitting streak, presenting great value against the Mariners’ struggling pitcher Logan Evans. Barger’s impressive metrics suggest he can exploit favorable matchups against right-handed pitching, making him a solid mid-range option. Meanwhile, Shohei Ohtani remains a standout play, contributing across the board with power and speed. Weather conditions are favorable, ensuring optimal conditions for fantasy relevance.