Miguel Amaya’s minor-league rehab is done, and he’s poised for activation with the Cubs, adding catching depth as the 40-man roster reshuffles to clear space for his return. Javier Assad moves onto the 40-man, while Nate Pearson is sent to Triple-A Iowa to make room. Jameson Taillon’s rehab progression hints at a potential Monday start in the doubleheader against Milwaukee, which could shift Ben Brown back to Iowa when rosters expand. The Cubs’ pitching staff gains depth at a critical juncture as Amaya, Assad, and Taillon rejoin the big-league club.

Assad hasn’t pitched this year due to oblique issues, but his path to the bullpen or a spot start in the doubleheader could tighten Chicago’s long relief options. Taillon, after a calf strain, carried a strong run earlier in 2025 (13 starts, 2.99 ERA, 0.919 WHIP) and could be a meaningful set of innings as the rotation re-stabilizes. McGuire’s fate hangs on roster moves, while Nate Pearson’s return to Iowa opens a 40-man slot for Amaya. Activation timing and bullpen roles will shape the Cubs’ immediate fantasy upside and the depth chart through August and September.

In a commanding 7-3 victory, the Tampa Bay Rays showcased their offensive firepower against the Los Angeles Angels, spearheaded by Brandon Lowe's two-run homer and Jake Mangum's impactful two-run single during a decisive seven-run fourth inning. Ryan Pepiot secured the win, breaking his winless streak, while Yandy Díaz contributed both a run scored and an RBI. Jo Adell stood out for the Angels, driving in all three runs with a homer and a single, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Rays' barrage.

In a significant move as the trade deadline approaches, the Seattle Mariners have acquired third baseman Eugenio Suárez from the Arizona Diamondbacks. This addition comes on the heels of Seattle's recent trade for Josh Naylor from the Cleveland Guardians, further strengthening their offensive lineup. With Suárez, an AL All-Star and one of the league's top home run hitters this season, the Mariners aim to enhance their playoff contention in the tightly contested AL West.

Currently just a game behind the Mariners in the American League West standings, the Texas Rangers are keenly aware of this shift in power dynamics. As teams bolster their rosters, the Rangers face increasing competition for the final Wild Card spot in the playoffs. Suárez's impressive season, marked by 36 home runs, adds a potent bat to Seattle's lineup, complementing Cal Raleigh, who leads the MLB with 41 home runs.

As the trade deadline looms, the fantasy baseball landscape shifts dramatically with potential closer changes across multiple teams. The Cleveland Guardians face a pivotal moment with Emmanuel Clase on paid leave due to a gambling investigation, and the search for save opportunities intensifies. Stashing certain relief pitchers who could soon ascend to the closer role is crucial for fantasy managers seeking an edge in saves.

Highlights this week include Cade Smith, who boasts a 97 mph fastball and a 34% strikeout rate, making him a prime candidate for saves if Clase's absence extends. Jason Adam and Robert Suarez of the San Diego Padres form a formidable ending duo, combining for 55 saves and holds this season. With trade rumors swirling around established closers like Ryan Helsley, strategic waiver wire moves can help managers capitalize on emerging closer situations.