In an exciting season for the Pittsburgh Pirates, outfielder Oneil Cruz has emerged as a key player, showcasing his incredible power and speed. Cruz, who transitioned from shortstop to the outfield, has hit 16 home runs this season, driving in 37 runs. His remarkable athleticism is highlighted by his 29 stolen bases, leading the National League. Tragically, he left Saturday's game against the Minnesota Twins due to a hip flexor injury. Interim manager Don Kelly remains hopeful that Cruz will return in time for the upcoming Home Run Derby, where he has already made a name for himself with the hardest-hit ball in Statcast history at 122.9 mph. However, with the Pirates struggling for playoff contention, trade talks surrounding Cruz's future are heating up, adding uncertainty to Pittsburgh's plans.

Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers will represent the American League as the starting pitcher in the upcoming All-Star Game, marking the first Tiger to do so since Max Scherzer in 2013. With a record of 10-3 and a 2.23 ERA this season, Skubal is riding high as his team holds the best record in MLB. Meanwhile, Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates will start for the National League for the second consecutive year, boasting a 4-8 record and a 2.01 ERA. Both pitchers have expressed mutual respect for each other's skills and work ethic, highlighting their maturity and dedication to improvement on the mound.

Major League Baseball's Sunday matchups are highlighted by key matchups including the Chicago Cubs facing the New York Yankees, as well as the Tampa Bay Rays against the Boston Red Sox. With the All-Star break approaching, teams are looking to build momentum, particularly the Cubs who have a strong record against right-handed pitchers. Starting for Chicago, Shota Imanaga has been solid, while Will Warren has excelled at home for New York. Recent performances show the Yankees' Aaron Judge is in fine form, hitting his 35th home run. Meanwhile, in the matchup between the Pirates and Twins, Mitch Keller seeks to break a losing streak for Pittsburgh against a Minnesota team that has shown offensive prowess.

As July rolls in, Eric Cross provides an insightful update to fantasy baseball prospect rankings, showcasing the top 100 hitters and pitchers. With the MLB All-Star break and the 2025 draft approaching, this update serves as a valuable resource for dynasty league players looking to evaluate the latest talent. The rankings consider players' profiles, performances, and projections, emphasizing long-term value while also factoring in short-term potential.

Highlighted prospects include Roman Anthony from the Boston Red Sox, who debuted impressively this season, and Konnor Griffin, a promising shortstop with the Pittsburgh Pirates expected to make waves by 2027. The rankings also recognize players like Josue Briceño of the Detroit Tigers, who has excelled with significant stats, and Jonah Tong of the New York Mets, boasting an impressive ERA and strikeout rate in Double-A. This detailed insight is crucial for fantasy players looking to make informed decisions as they shape their teams.

Former LSU star Paul Skenes has been named the starting pitcher for the National League in the 2025 All-Star Game, marking his second consecutive selection. Currently playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Skenes is having an outstanding season, leading the National League with a 2.01 ERA and boasting 131 strikeouts with a WHIP of 0.93 in 121 innings pitched. His impressive statistics place him among the top pitchers in the league.

In his previous All-Star appearance, he not only started but also went on to win the National League's Rookie of the Year award. This season, he has allowed more than three runs in a game only twice and recently achieved his 300th career strikeout in just 43 games, making him the fastest Pirates pitcher and one of 17 in MLB history to reach this milestone. Skenes takes the mound in Atlanta on Tuesday at 7 PM CT, and he is currently favored to win the National League Cy Young award.