The Chicago Cubs are actively exploring trades to bolster their roster ahead of the deadline, focusing particularly on acquiring an impactful starting pitcher. Sandy Alcantara and Mitch Keller are at the top of their wishlist for rotation improvements as the Cubs aim for a playoff push with a strong standing in the NL Central. Additionally, the team is eyeing offensive upgrades, especially at third base, where Matt Shaw has shown defensive prowess but lacks offensive consistency. The Cubs are considering adding veteran Justin Turner for his postseason experience, although his performance has been inconsistent. They are also monitoring Eugenio Suarez from the Arizona Diamondbacks, who could provide a significant offensive boost if available.

As June wraps up, major MLB action heats up with pivotal DFS games on the schedule. Key pitchers like Drew Rasmussen and George Kirby are in the spotlight, boasting impressive ERAs that could lead to strong performances. Rasmussen, with his remarkable 2.45 ERA, faces a struggling Athletics offense, while Kirby aims to regain form against the Royals' lackluster hitting.

Top hitting prospects include Cal Raleigh, who continues to crush the ball with over 30 home runs this season, and Oneil Cruz, who remains a threat with his power-speed combination. Other promising players like Ramon Laureano and Alec Burleson present intriguing value picks for DFS contests. With strategic stacking options available, teams like the Yankees and Giants could be the key to unlocking winning lineups.

Chase Burns made an impressive MLB debut for the Cincinnati Reds, striking out the first five batters faced against the New York Yankees. He joins a wave of talented young pitchers in the NL Central, including Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who finished third in last year's Cy Young race. Milwaukee's Jacob Misiorowski has also made headlines, throwing 11 hitless innings to start his career. With Burns' arrival as the No. 2 pick in the 2023 draft, the NL Central is seeing a surge in pitching talent, giving teams like the Cubs and Brewers a run for their money.

The division is competitive, as four teams are currently more than four games over .500 and maintaining ERAs below 4.00. This is a stark contrast to the struggles of the San Francisco Giants, who have lost six of their last eight games and sit behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West. The Marlins made headlines with a dramatic comeback win against the Arizona Diamondbacks, showcasing the unpredictable nature of baseball.

Dave Parker, the renowned outfielder often referred to as 'the Cobra', passed away at the age of 74, just before his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Parker had a prolific 19-year career, mostly with the Pittsburgh Pirates, winning two World Series and earning the NL MVP title in 1978. His remarkable stats include a .290 batting average, 339 home runs, and 1,493 RBIs. Parker's legacy transcends statistics; he was celebrated for his charisma and courage in the face of challenges, including his battle with Parkinson's disease.

The baseball community mourns his loss as tributes pour in, highlighting not just his on-field achievements but his larger-than-life personality. Parker's impact on the game and the players who followed him, including his influence on the Pirates and his role in the success of the Oakland Athletics, will be remembered for generations.

As the second half of the MLB season unfolds, several top prospects are set to make their mark in 2025 redraft leagues. Notable names include Samuel Basallo, who, despite not being called up amidst an injury to Adley Rutschman, continues to showcase his elite power in Triple-A with a .264/.390/.579 line and a high barrel rate. Bubba Chandler, while initially impressive, has struggled with walk rates in recent outings, raising concerns about his promotion timeline. Conversely, Hunter Barco's exceptional K-BB rate and low ERA position him as a strong candidate for a call-up soon.

Spencer Jones, after a successful stint in Triple-A, is one to watch, though his contact issues might hinder his transition. Colby Thomas has been a standout with solid stats indicating 25/15 upside, making him a likely candidate for a call-up. Overall, stashes of these players could yield significant fantasy returns as the season progresses.