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.

The Baltimore Orioles are continuing to pursue their 2026 vision, despite a recent surge that saw them win six straight games and nine of their last 11. However, their chances of reaching the playoffs appear slim. ESPN's Bradford Doolittle suggests that the team is focusing on their future, allowing young talents like Heston Kjerstad significant playing time to learn and develop at the major league level.

Central to this evolution is Adley Rutschman, who has struggled this season, recording a .695 OPS and a .374 slugging percentage, both career lows. With his walk rate decreasing and a worrying lack of power, Rutschman’s performance raises questions about his role as the franchise's cornerstone. As the trade deadline approaches, the Orioles face critical decisions about their roster and direction.

Francisco Lindor, the New York Mets' shortstop, suffered a fractured pinky toe during a recent game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, leading him to miss Thursday's matchup. Despite the pain, he is not expected to land on the injured list, as Mets manager Carlos Mendoza indicated that Lindor wants to play, making it a day-to-day assessment based on his pain tolerance. In Lindor's absence, Luisangel Acuña stepped up to start at shortstop.

During the previous game, Lindor was hit on the foot by a pitch and managed to finish the game, but later revealed the severity of his injury upon inspecting his bruised toe post-game. Acuña, while having primarily played second base this season, fills in well, boasting respectable defensive metrics. The Mets are looking to keep their momentum as they navigate Lindor's recovery.

Mark Vientos has been sidelined for consecutive games, not due to injury, but rather the Mets' strategic matchups against opposing pitchers. Against the Cubs and Taillon, the Mets opted for Brett Baty at third, showing their depth in versatile players. Manager Carlos Mendoza aimed for optimal lineup configurations, especially in light of Jeff McNeil's recent hip discomfort. Despite Vientos's five-game hitting streak raising his average to .220, the decision reflects a broader strategy to maximize offensive potential.

Meanwhile, Luisangel Acuña, who has proven valuable off the bench, faces the challenges of adapting to MLB pitching. Mendoza emphasized the importance of adjustments for young players in maintaining success. Acuña's performance will be monitored closely as teams begin to adjust to his playstyle, highlighting the ongoing learning curve faced by rookies in the league.

The El Paso Chihuahuas secured a thrilling 9-7 victory against the Round Rock Express, marking their third consecutive win. Shortstop Eguy Rosario kicked off the scoring with a homer in the second inning, setting a new franchise record with his 49th career home run. Jake Cronenworth, in his first MLB Injury Rehab game, contributed significantly with a two-run homer and three walks. Designated hitter Yonathan Perlaza shone with a league-leading 17th double, while Reiss Knehr notched his seventh save of the season. The Chihuahuas will aim to continue their winning streak in the next game against Round Rock.