The Minnesota Twins are facing a challenging period with their pitching staff as they enter June with the worst ERA in the league at 6.81. According to pitching coach Pete Maki, the team has struggled significantly, allowing at least nine runs in seven of their last 13 games. The absence of staff ace Pablo López due to injury is a contributing factor, but Maki asserts that the talented bullpen should not have deteriorated to this extent. He emphasizes evaluating each outing based on pitch choice and execution.

Maki revealed that the Twins will likely transition to using more openers to alleviate the pressure on their struggling starters. The team has seen an uptick in walks and a decrease in strikeouts, allowing opposing hitters to bat .281 against them. Despite the struggles, Maki insists on sticking to their core principles and improving fundamental aspects to regain their competitive edge.

The Minnesota Twins are in a disastrous stretch, losing 13 of their last 16 games since the injury of ace Pablo López. The team's struggles have been highlighted by the unusual usage of infielder Jonah Bride as a pitcher in multiple games. In stark contrast, star reliever Jhoan Duran has seen limited opportunities, reflecting a team in turmoil. Young pitcher David Festa has faltered as well, giving up an alarming number of earned runs in his recent outings. Despite Brooks Lee's notable hitting streak ending, Byron Buxton has provided a glimmer of hope with his power, hitting six solo home runs. Patrick Reusse suggests the Twins consider trading top relief pitchers for prospects to reshape their future.

In a significant trade, the San Francisco Giants acquired All-Star infielder Rafael Devers, sending a clear message to their clubhouse. The deal is expected to bolster the team's performance as they approach the second half of the season.

Shohei Ohtani is set to return to the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers, marking his first pitching appearance since 2023, against the San Diego Padres. This comeback adds excitement for the Dodgers as they continue their playoff push.

Athletics rookie Denzel Clarke showcased his defensive prowess by making a phenomenal catch, robbing a home run at Angel Stadium. Meanwhile, Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees hit a towering home run in response to comments from Boston's Hunter Dobbins.

In injury news, Pablo Lopez of the Minnesota Twins has been sidelined for 8 to 12 weeks due to a Grade 2 shoulder strain. Contrastingly, Mike Trout marked his return from injury with a home run over the Green Monster.

In roster updates, Jac Caglianone, a top prospect, is set to debut for the Kansas City Royals while Carlos Correa has been activated from the concussion list.

Injuries are stacking up in the MLB, particularly affecting key fantasy players. Bryce Harper was placed on the IL with wrist inflammation, creating an opportunity for Otto Kemp to step up for the Philadelphia Phillies. Yordan Alvarez is dealing with a small fracture in his right hand, while Anthony Santander is sidelined with shoulder issues. Jordan Walker is expected to return soon from a wrist injury, but others like Ryan Mountcastle and Pablo Lopez face longer recoveries, with Mountcastle expected to miss 8-12 weeks due to a hamstring strain.

The situation highlights the importance of handcuffing players in fantasy leagues. With multiple players dealing with oblique strains, monitoring player health and having viable substitutes ready can significantly impact fantasy outcomes. The latest injury updates suggest that players like Dylan Crews, Austin Hays, and Shea Langeliers are also worth watching as they navigate their recoveries.

Bailey Ober continues to demonstrate solid performance on the mound, maintaining a 2.85 earned-run average since a tough start to the season. However, he admits to feeling off mechanically, stemming from issues that began in spring training. Currently, he is focused on refining his throwing mechanics to restore his velocity, which has dipped from 91.7 mph to 90.4 mph.

The Minnesota Twins are optimistic following their acquisition of lefty reliever Joey Wentz from the Pittsburgh Pirates. With Wentz expected to bolster the bullpen, the team has placed Pablo López on the 60-day injured list due to a shoulder strain, sidelining him for several weeks.