Mickey Gasper's impressive performance in the minors has been overshadowed by the Minnesota Twins' roster decisions. Despite boasting a .344 batting average and a 1.106 OPS, Gasper wasn't called up to replace the injured Royce Lewis. Instead, the Twins opted for DaShawn Keirsey Jr., citing his versatility and ability to play a role that fits the team’s immediate needs. Lewis was placed on the injured list due to a hamstring strain, prompting the Twins to look for a player who could contribute defensively and in pinch-running situations.

Byron Buxton received a unique Father’s Day gift from his kids, which included personalized cleats adorned with their notes and drawings, but he was later scratched from the lineup due to elbow soreness after being hit by a pitch. This injury may affect Buxton's availability moving forward. Meanwhile, the Twins have a day off before resuming their road trip with a series against Cincinnati, as they look to maintain their competitive edge.

This week's injury report brings pivotal updates crucial for fantasy baseball owners. Kodai Senga of the New York Mets has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain, suffered while fielding. His absence, likely lasting two weeks, poses a significant concern for both the Mets and fantasy managers who relied on his strong performance this season. Tyler Glasnow is making strides in his recovery, having thrown to live batters recently, which sets a positive tone for his potential return. In contrast, Jackson Merrill experienced a concerning incident on the base paths, and his status is under careful evaluation due to possible concussion protocol. Other notable injuries include Anthony Santander, who has been sidelined with a shoulder issue, and Matt Chapman, who is expected to start rehab soon. The impact of these injuries reverberates across fantasy leagues, making strategic replacements and waiver wire moves essential.

Byron Buxton, the talented outfielder for the Minnesota Twins, is known for his explosive playing style, combining speed, power, and defensive prowess. However, his injury history looms large, with only two seasons in which he played over 100 games since his debut in 2015. Recently, Buxton exited a game against the Houston Astros due to a left elbow contusion after being struck by a pitch. This incident raised alarms among Twins fans, particularly as the team vies for a Wild Card spot in the American League amidst a competitive season.

His health is critical for the Twins, especially as they navigate a tough playoff race. Alongside Carlos Correa, who has also avoided significant injuries this season, the duo represents the core of Minnesota's success. Any prolonged absence from Buxton could severely impact the team's playoff aspirations, considering his significant contributions on both offense and defense.

Joe Ryan delivered a stellar performance for the Minnesota Twins, pitching seven innings with just two hits and two runs allowed against the Houston Astros. However, even Ryan's efforts couldn't prevent the Twins from succumbing to a dramatic 3-2 walk-off loss, marking their third consecutive defeat. Astros pitcher Hunter Brown also shone, matching Ryan with a seven-inning outing of his own and striking out 12 batters.

In what was a tightly contested game, both teams struggled to find offensive rhythm, with the game tied at 2-2 after Brooks Lee hit a crucial homer in the fifth. Ultimately, it was a clutch single from Cam Smith that brought home the winning run in the ninth against Twins closer Jhoan Duran.

Thursday's MLB action features eight games, starting with the Mets hosting the Nationals, where Kodai Senga (6-3, 1.59 ERA) leads for New York against Michael Soroka (3-3, 4.86 ERA) for Washington. Despite this pitching matchup, the SportsLine Projection Model predicts Washington to cover the +1.5 run line, with New York listed as substantial -247 favorites.

The Rockies face the Giants later, with Anthony Senzatela (1-10, 6.68 ERA) pitching for Colorado against San Francisco's Hayden Birdsong (3-1, 2.55 ERA). The model forecasts a low-scoring affair, predicting only 10.2 runs combined between these teams.

SportsLine's computer simulations have shown profitability, especially with home run prop picks. Following their top MLB picks could yield a parlay payout of +1249. Notable bets for the day include Byron Buxton over 1.5 total bases and Jung Hoo Lee under 1.5 total hits, showcasing confidence in player performance amidst the day's matchups.