The MLB betting landscape is buzzing with excitement as top matchups unfold on July 2, 2025. Following a successful no-runs-first-inning (NRFI) betting night, there are six standout NRFI picks to consider today. Key matchups include the St. Louis Cardinals facing the Pittsburgh Pirates, where pitchers Sonny Gray and Mitch Keller are set to take the mound. Gray, boasting an impressive 12-4 NRFI record this season, aims to maintain his form after a complete game shutout against the Guardians. Keller, with a solid 12-5 NRFI record, presents a tough challenge. Meanwhile, the San Diego Padres face off against the Philadelphia Phillies in a doubleheader, with Nick Pivetta and rookie Mick Abel pitching. Pivetta, also 12-4 on NRFIs this year, is expected to shine. The betting community is closely monitoring these games, considering weather conditions and lineup changes that could impact outcomes.

Andrew Painter of the Philadelphia Phillies, Robert Hassell III from the Washington Nationals, and Spencer Jones of the New York Yankees are highlighted as top fantasy baseball prospects worth stashing. Painter, a promising right-handed pitcher, has rebounded from a rough start in Triple-A, showing strong potential with a recent 2.51 ERA over his last three outings. Hassell, an outfielder, has demonstrated significant production in the minors following a brief MLB stint, posting an impressive .455/.556/.955 line after returning. Meanwhile, Jones has shown power and speed, hitting .403 in his last 16 games with 8 home runs, though concerns about his high strikeout rate remain. These players could provide valuable contributions during the second half of the season, making them essential targets for fantasy managers.

Stashing the right prospects can significantly impact your fantasy baseball season. Joe Boyle, now with the Tampa Bay Rays, showcases impressive Triple-A stats, boasting a 1.85 ERA and 96 strikeouts in 73 innings. He could emerge as a valuable asset should the Rays’ rotation face injuries. On the other hand, Arizona Diamondbacks' Jordan Lawlar, despite his potential, is sidelined with a hamstring strain. His stellar minor league performance includes a .319 AVG with significant power and speed, suggesting he could be a difference-maker when healthy. Lastly, Philadelphia Phillies' Justin Crawford is on the rise, currently batting .335 with 26 stolen bases in Triple-A. With the Phillies in a playoff race, he may soon be called up, offering a high batting average and speed in fantasy lineups.

The Philadelphia Phillies are set for a doubleheader against the San Diego Padres on July 2 at Citizens Bank Park, with the first game starting at 1:10 PM and the second at 7:10 PM. Rookie right-hander Mick Abel (2-1, 3.47 ERA) will take the mound for the Phillies in the afternoon game, while Cristopher Sanchez (6-2, 2.79 ERA) will pitch the nightcap. The Padres counter with Nick Pivetta (8-2, 3.36 ERA) and Dylan Cease (3-7, 4.53 ERA) for the respective games.

Fans in the Philadelphia area can watch the first game on NBC 10 and NBC Sports Philadelphia, while those outside the market can tune in on MLB Network. The second game will air exclusively on NBCSP. Streaming options include nbcsportsphiladelphia.com, FuboTV, Hulu, Peacock, and YouTube TV. Additionally, Apple TV+ will feature the Phillies on select dates, including a matchup against the New York Yankees on July 25.

Kodai Senga has emerged as a key player for the New York Mets this season, showcasing an impressive 1.47 ERA and a 7-3 record. Unfortunately, his hamstring injury has sidelined him since June 12, contributing to the Mets' struggles, including three consecutive losses and a 3-7 record in their last ten games, putting them two games behind the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL East. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza is optimistic after revealing that Senga faced hitters in a live batting practice on Sunday and is set to throw a bullpen session soon.

The Mets recently had their game against the Milwaukee Brewers postponed due to weather, with a doubleheader scheduled to take place on Wednesday. The team’s recent performance has raised concerns, prompting some fans to express discontent regarding coaching decisions, especially after the team’s manager, Carlos Mendoza, exhibited frustration towards umpires during a recent game. As the Mets grapple with injuries and performance issues, the return of Senga becomes increasingly critical for their playoff aspirations.