The 2025 T-Mobile Home Run Derby promises to be an exciting event, showcasing some of the MLB's most powerful hitters. Leading the pack is Oneil Cruz from the Pittsburgh Pirates, with odds set at +340 despite a batting average of just .204. Meanwhile, Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who currently leads the league with 36 homers this season, is close behind at +375. Hometown favorite Ronald Acuña Jr. follows at +425, and Washington Nationals' James Wood rounds out the top contenders at +550.

With the longest home run this season hit by Byron Buxton at 479 feet, he holds odds of +800 but has attracted the fewest bets due to a recent injury. James Wood, on the other hand, is generating significant interest, accounting for 18% of all wagers and 34.4% of total dollars wagered, marking him as a key player to watch. The event is set to take place in Atlanta, heightening the competitive spirit among these hitters.

The MLB betting landscape is heating up as July 11, 2025, approaches, bringing a slate ready for No Runs First Inning (NRFI) wagers. With ace pitchers like Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes undefeated in their NRFI bets this season, bettors are eager to capitalize on their performances. Skubal's 15-3 record and Skenes' 18-0 mark highlight the opportunities for savvy bettors keen on maximizing value.

In key matchups tonight, the Seattle Mariners face the Detroit Tigers where Luis Castillo and Skubal are set to duel. The New York Mets’ Kodai Senga returns from injury against Michael Wacha, while Joe Ryan of the Minnesota Twins goes up against Skenes, creating a tantalizing pitching battle for NRFI enthusiasts. The Atlanta Braves will send Grant Holmes to the mound against the St. Louis Cardinals' Matthew Liberatore, with both pitchers showing strong NRFI records, adding to the excitement.

The New York Yankees are in dire need of pitching help as the MLB trade deadline approaches. With the Yankees' offense struggling, their reliance on acquiring above-average pitchers is paramount. Six potential relief pitchers have been identified by industry insiders, including Aroldis Chapman, David Bednar, Félix Bautista, Mason Miller, Ryan Helsley, and Emmanuel Clase. Each of these players presents unique strengths and challenges for the Yankees as they seek to bolster their bullpen.

Chapman, a former Yankee, may be a tough sell due to past tensions and the rivalry with the Boston Red Sox. Bednar offers impressive strikeout numbers but comes with consistent control issues. Bautista and Miller are likely unattainable given the assets required for acquisition and the tension between division rivals. Helsley presents similar control issues, while Clase has experienced a decline post-season, making him more of a question mark.

Paul Skenes stands as a beacon of hope for the Pittsburgh Pirates, amidst the team's struggles in the National League. The former LSU star has shown exceptional promise, yet his future remains uncertain as the team contemplates trading him. With the trade deadline looming, ESPN's Jeff Passan suggests that Skenes is viewed as the only untouchable player on the roster. However, a compelling offer from a powerhouse like the Los Angeles Dodgers could change everything.

Recent speculation includes a proposed blockbuster deal sending Skenes to the Dodgers in exchange for several promising prospects, including Dalton Rushing and Josue De Paula. Such a trade might benefit the Pirates more than retaining an ace, providing valuable depth and versatility to a team in need of a rebuild. For the Dodgers, acquiring Skenes would not only enhance their rotation but also bolster their marketing appeal.

As the All-Star break approaches, it's an optimal time to reassess your Sorare MLB lineup. Players like Kyle Stowers of the Miami Marlins have been heating up, boasting a 1.069 OPS over the last three weeks, making him a key upgrade. Nathan Eovaldi of the Texas Rangers is also turning heads with a 1.62 ERA and leading MLB in WHIP, making him a Cy Young candidate if he stays healthy. Meanwhile, Nick Gonzales of the Pittsburgh Pirates shows promise despite the team's offensive struggles, backed by a solid .903 OPS recently.

However, caution is warranted with players like Cam Smith of the Houston Astros and Carlos Rodón from the New York Yankees. Smith has potential, but a high BABIP suggests unsustainable luck, while Rodón's low BABIP could lead to regression. Lastly, consider downgrading players like Jeffrey Springs of the Oakland Athletics and Luis Arraez of the San Diego Padres, as their recent performances don’t correlate with Sorare points production.