As the July 31 MLB trade deadline approaches, speculation intensifies around potential trades. Notable names in the trade market include Ryan McMahon of the Colorado Rockies, who has shown consistent performance but is evolving his game. Freddy Peralta from the Milwaukee Brewers, a top starter, could be moved as they assess their roster options. Eugenio Suárez of the Arizona Diamondbacks is enjoying a stellar season, while teammates Merrill Kelly and Sandy Alcantara are also attracting interest. The St. Louis Cardinals have their own considerations with Nolan Arenado and Ryan Helsley, each with different scenarios influencing their future.

The market could shift rapidly, influenced by team standings and the impending postseason. Players like Cedric Mullins and Mitch Keller are also under the microscope, along with others who may not have been on this initial list. With every team evaluating their potential for postseason contention, the next few weeks promise significant changes across the league.

The Chicago Cubs are reportedly seeking to strengthen their starting rotation following the season-ending injury to Justin Steele. They've linked themselves to Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara and have been speculated to be interested in acquiring both Alcantara and Edward Cabrera in a potential trade. ESPN analysts suggest a 60% chance Alcantara could be dealt due to the Marlins' struggles this season. The Cubs' rotation has faced challenges with only Shota Imanaga and Matthew Boyd providing positive bWAR this season. The acquisition of Alcantara and Cabrera could significantly bolster the Cubs' chances as they aim for success.

Kerry Miller from Bleacher Report highlighted that the deal would likely require a significant package, potentially involving five top Cubs prospects. The Marlins would benefit from this trade, advancing their rebuild efforts. Alcantara, despite a rough start to the season, has shown signs of recovery, and Cabrera presents a solid option for the Cubs to consider. This trade could pave the way for a stronger Cubs rotation and a more competitive season.

As we reach the halfway mark of the MLB season, with the Dodgers and Tigers on track for 100 wins, fantasy managers must pivot their strategies for the second half. Jose Soriano shows promise with a recent impressive run, while Edward Cabrera's command issues make him a risky FAAB target. Jacob Lopez has been stellar with his strikeout rate, but concerns linger. In the bullpen, Dylan Lee might seize more saves, while rookie Drake Baldwin has impressed offensively. Spencer Steer's resurgence is noteworthy as he competes for playing time with Austin Hays injured. Casey Schmitt is heating up for the Giants, and the Angels' Christian Moore might finally get his shot. Keep an eye on these players for FAAB bids this week!

The Chicago Cubs are making strategic moves as they prepare for a push towards the postseason in 2025. With key players like Seiya Suzuki, Kyle Tucker, Nico Hoerner, and Jameson Taillon set to hit free agency, the Cubs' front office is exploring the trade market. Reports indicate they are inquiring about Miami Marlins pitchers, including 2022 Cy Young winner Sandy Alcantara and Edward Cabrera. The Cubs' injuries in the starting rotation and the uncertainty surrounding their roster suggest a push for reinforcements is imminent. As they head into a critical divisional series against the St. Louis Cardinals, the Cubs aim to maintain their 2.5-game lead in the NL Central.

As the Miami Marlins face off against the San Francisco Giants, the matchup features Edward Cabrera on the mound for the Marlins and Logan Webb for the Giants. Miami is coming off a recent win, having taken back-to-back victories and three of their last four games. The game is set for June 25, 2025, at Oracle Park in San Francisco, with broadcast coverage available through NBCS BA and FanDuel Sports Network Florida.

Currently, the betting odds favor the Giants with a moneyline of -222 compared to the Marlins at +183. The spread is set at -1.5 for the Giants, while the total runs projected for the game stand at 7.0. Webb's impressive ERA of 2.49 and recent performance with nine strikeouts in his last outing make the Giants a strong contender, especially as they've recorded three consecutive wins with him as the starter. Meanwhile, Cabrera's recent form also shows promise with a solid 3.81 ERA. Betting trends suggest potential value in wagering on the Giants' moneyline and the over for total runs.