On this week's starting pitcher report, several pitchers are trending upwards, providing intriguing options for fantasy leagues. Yusei Kikuchi has turned his season around with a recent 2.25 ERA in June thanks to a focus on his curveball, increasing its usage from 9% to 21%. Justin Wrobleski's velocity has seen a notable uptick, averaging 96.6 mph on his fastball, along with a strategic increase in cutter use against right-handed batters. Mike Burrows is getting attention for his pitch mix shift, throwing his four-seam fastball more frequently, while maintaining solid numbers. Lastly, despite Jack Flaherty's struggles, there's potential in his curveball if he can iron out his pitch tipping issues.

The 2025 MLB season is only halfway done, and potential playoff contenders are still in play for the Wild Card chase. Historically, teams under .500 at the season's midpoint have made it to the World Series, including recent examples like the 2019 Washington Nationals. This year, the Atlanta Braves (38-45), Texas Rangers (41-44), Boston Red Sox (42-44), and Los Angeles Angels (41-42) are all looking to turn their seasons around. The Braves, known for their offensive strength, face the challenge of overcoming a significant deficit in the NL East. The Rangers, while lacking pitching depth, are just 3.5 games away from a Wild Card spot, potentially boosted by their underperforming stars waking up. The Red Sox must address pitching issues but remain contenders in the AL Wild Card race. Lastly, the Angels, despite past disappointments, are showing promise with a recent surge and are in striking distance of the playoffs.

The countdown to the 2025 MLB T-Mobile Home Run Derby at Truist Park in Atlanta is on, with the event scheduled for July 14 at 8 p.m. ET. Notable absences include Shohei Ohtani, who has expressed doubt about participating due to the rigorous swing demands, and Elly De La Cruz, who has declined the invitation. However, the spotlight will shine brightly on Ronald Acuña Jr. and Cal Raleigh. Acuña, back from ACL surgery, boasts 9 homers this season and seeks redemption after defeats in previous Derbies. Meanwhile, Raleigh leads MLB with 33 home runs, making him a formidable contender as the first switch-hitter in the event since 2023.

The Angels face the Braves in Atlanta, with both teams seeking a crucial win. The Angels, led by Mike Trout, are currently just one game under .500, sitting 2.5 games out of a postseason spot, while the Braves are struggling, 7.5 games behind the Wild Card in the National League. Tyler Anderson takes the mound for Los Angeles, aiming to improve on his 2-5 record and 4.41 ERA, while Didier Fuentes, with a concerning 10.80 ERA, seeks redemption for Atlanta. Recent performances show the Angels winning their last series against the A's and Mariners, while the Braves have had mixed results against the Mets and Phillies. Betting insights suggest leaning towards the Braves for the moneyline and the Angels to cover the spread.

Bobby Bonilla Day resonates with baseball fans, particularly those of the New York Mets, as it marks a day where the franchise pays a retired player over a million dollars annually until 2035. This repartee extends beyond Bonilla, as numerous current players are also set to receive deferred payments worth millions. Among them is Shohei Ohtani, who will cash in a staggering $680 million, showcasing the trend of deferred contracts in Major League Baseball.

Rafael Devers, now a San Francisco Giant, will start receiving payments from 2034 until 2043, while Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman are also primed for significant payouts post-retirement. The Los Angeles Dodgers are known for their deferred payments to former players, creating a culture where such contracts are commonplace. The Mets' Francisco Lindor and Edwin Diaz will also see deferred payments, solidifying the notion that deferred money is a lucrative part of MLB contracts.