As the MLB season progresses, fantasy players should keep a close eye on lineup strategies for the upcoming games. Quinn Priester of the Milwaukee Brewers, priced at $9,900, has shown consistent performance with a 3.27 ERA over 107.1 innings, making him a strong DFS option. Similarly, Yusei Kikuchi at $9,000 has excelled at home for the Los Angeles Angels, boasting a 2.48 ERA. Sean Manaea of the New York Mets also stands out with a 2.08 ERA and 11.42 K/9 rate.

When considering offense, Ketel Marte ($3,800) has an impressive OPS over 1.000 against right-handed pitchers, making him a prime target. Trevor Story ($3,300) is also on a hot streak with 18 homers and an OPS of .839 in his last three weeks. For budget options, Andy Pages ($3,000) and Jake Cronenworth ($2,900) provide solid value against struggling pitchers.

For team stacks, the Blue Jays against Tanner Gordon of the Rockies and the Reds versus Michael Soroka of the Cubs are compelling choices. Notable players from these matchups include Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Elly De La Cruz, who can capitalize on favorable pitching matchups.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are grappling with their worst July record in over a decade, leading to urgent discussions about roster improvements ahead of the trade deadline. Despite their offensive prowess, they rank among the lowest in several key batting categories this month, with stars like Freddie Freeman and Shohei Ohtani struggling at the plate. Manager Dave Roberts hinted at the need for not just pitching, but also a potent bat or defensive upgrade.

The organization is actively exploring trade options, particularly for an outfielder to bolster their defensive lineup, as errors have plagued the team. The recent upswing of Michael Conforto, who has improved significantly, complicates their decision-making, although his defensive liabilities remain a concern. The rotation appears strong with the return of key pitchers, but the team is aware that consistent offensive production is crucial for success in October.

The Boston Red Sox are strategically positioned as the trade deadline approaches, currently five games above .500 and vying for an American League Wild Card spot. While they are looking to strengthen their roster, the future of All-Star Jarren Duran hangs in the balance due to a roster logjam. With Roman Anthony and Ceddanne Rafaela off the trading table and Wilyer Abreu offering younger potential, Duran's trade rumors have emerged, particularly involving the San Diego Padres.

Though the Padres have shown strong interest in acquiring Duran, the trade discussions face challenges. They have appealing pitching prospects like Dylan Cease and Michael King; however, both are nearing the end of their contracts. For the Red Sox, trading Duran would require gaining controllable assets that can contribute over the long term, a necessity given Duran's declining performance relative to his prior All-Star season, despite his impressive stats this season, including 10 triples and eight home runs.

As the Los Angeles Dodgers continue their quest for the 2025 World Series title, they have opted to release veteran catcher Austin Barnes, transitioning to younger talent. Barnes, who previously struggled with a .214 batting average this season, has signed a minor league deal with their rivals, the San Francisco Giants. With the Giants' current catchers, Patrick Bailey and Andrew Knizner, both underperforming, Barnes could find himself on the 40-man roster soon, adding depth to a struggling position.

While the Dodgers are focused on nurturing prospects like Dalton Rushing, who was called up to replace Barnes, the Giants are seeking stability in their catching lineup. The trade-off could potentially reshape the balance of power in the NL West. Fans are eager to see how Barnes adapts to his new role and if he can regain his form to contribute meaningfully.

The Chicago White Sox fell short in a 3-1 defeat against the San Francisco Giants, struggling to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Despite showing potential with aggressive base running and timely hits, they finished a disappointing 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position. Manager Will Venable expressed frustration over their inability to drive in runs during critical situations, particularly when they loaded the bases twice. Starter Aaron Civale showed flashes of brilliance, but his four walks muddied his performance on the mound.

Defensive mishaps also played a role, notably when second baseman Lenyn Sosa misplayed a grounder in the sixth inning that led to a crucial two-run triple for the Giants. The Sox's tactical choices, including defensive positioning, were scrutinized, marking a night where the bounces didn't favor them. The defeat highlights the ongoing need for the Sox to refine their execution as the series progresses.