Rivalry Weekend is upon Major League Baseball, highlighting competitive matchups across the league. Significant games include the Subway Series between the New York Mets and New York Yankees, with Juan Soto set to take center stage after his move to the Mets, and the Chicago White Sox facing off against the Cubs in a cross-town clash that brings the spirit of the Windy City to life. The weekend also features an intriguing matchup between the Atlanta Braves and Boston Red Sox, two teams experiencing fluctuating seasons. The Twins continue to build momentum with an impressive winning streak, showcasing their potential as they sweep the Baltimore Orioles.

Amidst the excitement, notable player updates include Dalton Rushing’s MLB debut, who is stepping in as the Dodgers' backup catcher, and Clayton Kershaw returning to the mound. With several teams battling for playoff positioning, the stakes are high this weekend as fans eagerly anticipate the outcomes of these historic rivalries.

Aaron Nola's struggles continue, with last night’s performance against Sonny Gray leading to serious concerns for fantasy owners. Nola's average fastball velocity sits below last year's numbers and his underlying stats reflect a significant decline, raising doubts about him as a reliable fantasy asset. Despite the poor start, owners are advised to keep him in their lineup as drafting him as a number two or three starter leaves little room for panic. Meanwhile, Gray also faced difficulties in his recent outing, suggesting caution in how fantasy managers view him moving forward.

On a more optimistic note, Ryan Weathers showcased impressive velocity upon his return from injury, recording a strong outing that lights up interest among fantasy enthusiasts. Other key developments include Dalton Rushing's promotion by the Dodgers, although his limited playing time indicates he may not provide immediate fantasy value. And with the recent updates on players like Bryce Miller and Ronald Acuña Jr., keep an eye on the waiver wire as teams adjust their rosters.