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.

As the July 31 MLB trade deadline approaches, speculation intensifies around potential trades. Notable names in the trade market include Ryan McMahon of the Colorado Rockies, who has shown consistent performance but is evolving his game. Freddy Peralta from the Milwaukee Brewers, a top starter, could be moved as they assess their roster options. Eugenio Suárez of the Arizona Diamondbacks is enjoying a stellar season, while teammates Merrill Kelly and Sandy Alcantara are also attracting interest. The St. Louis Cardinals have their own considerations with Nolan Arenado and Ryan Helsley, each with different scenarios influencing their future.

The market could shift rapidly, influenced by team standings and the impending postseason. Players like Cedric Mullins and Mitch Keller are also under the microscope, along with others who may not have been on this initial list. With every team evaluating their potential for postseason contention, the next few weeks promise significant changes across the league.

Today's MLB player prop bets focus on home runs, highlighting potential high-value picks such as Alec Burleson and Heliot Ramos. Burleson, up against Andrew Heaney, shows promise with an impressive OPS increase this month. Despite weather concerns, his past performance against left-handed pitchers bolsters his chances of hitting a home run. Similarly, Ramos, playing in scorching Arizona conditions, benefits from a favorable matchup against Ryne Nelson. His recent stats indicate a solid opportunity for a long ball, especially with the high temperatures aiding ball flight.

Max Kepler, facing a knuckleballer, aims to capitalize on his recent hard contact, while Vinnie Pasquantino looks to leverage his success against right-handers despite a challenging park environment. Finally, Yandy Diaz's balanced hitting against both sides of the mound adds intrigue, particularly against Jacob Lopez, whose vulnerability against right-handed hitters could present Diaz with a favorable chance for a home run today.

Chase Burns made a strong impression in his MLB debut, moving quickly to the forefront of fantasy baseball discussions. This week, the focus shifts to several promising pitching prospects to stash for Week 14 of the 2025 MLB season. Bubba Chandler, once a fan favorite, has struggled recently, but his earlier performances suggest he could still be a valuable asset if he regains form. Andrew Painter is bouncing back from a slump and could soon emerge as a top option as he logs important innings for the Philadelphia Phillies.

Quinn Mathews of the St. Louis Cardinals faced setbacks but has displayed potential that keeps him on the radar. Meanwhile, Joe Boyle has rebounded since joining the Tampa Bay Rays, showcasing impressive strikeout ability. Nolan McLean could see an opportunity in New York if the Mets' rotation continues to be plagued by injuries. As injuries mount, these prospects serve as essential stashes for savvy fantasy owners looking to enhance their pitching depth.

The St. Louis Cardinals (46-38) are set to face the Pittsburgh Pirates (34-50) today, with pitchers Erick Fedde and Andrew Heaney on the mound. The Pirates recently swept the Mets, showcasing their offensive power with Oneil Cruz hitting two home runs in a 12-1 victory. Meanwhile, the Cardinals just concluded a dominant three-game sweep against the Guardians, outscoring them 21-6. St. Louis has won 10 of their last 13 games and remains undefeated against the Pirates this season at 3-0.

As the game approaches, bettors are eyeing the odds, with the Cardinals favored at -125 on the moneyline. This matchup presents a compelling analysis of both teams' recent performances and suggests potential betting opportunities. Expect a battle of pitchers, as Fedde, struggling with a 4.11 ERA, takes on Heaney, who has a 4.48 ERA. Each team's offensive momentum will be crucial in determining the outcome.