The MLB All-Star Game brings excitement unmatched by other major sports, featuring the best players in an exhibition that feels competitive. As the season nears its midpoint, fantasy managers should look to make impactful roster moves. Eury Perez (Marlins) has turned a corner post-injury, now boasting a dominant presence on the mound. Cam Schlittler (Yankees) is gaining traction after a promising debut, and Colt Keith (Tigers) is on a hot streak, solidifying his role in the batting order. With injuries creating opportunities, players like Kevin Ginkel (Diamondbacks) and Victor Caratini (Astros) could provide immediate returns.

The Tampa Bay Rays (50-43) and the Boston Red Sox (49-45) face off today at Fenway Park, with Taj Bradley on the mound for the Rays against Boston's Walker Buehler. The Red Sox are entering this matchup on a high note, having secured their second six-game winning streak of the season, scoring 56 runs while allowing only 16 in that span. On the flip side, the Rays have struggled recently, losing two straight before salvaging a win in their last series, bringing their record to 3-6 over the past nine games.

Looking at the odds, the Rays are slight favorites at -111 on the moneyline, while the Red Sox sit at -108. The current spread has Tampa Bay favored to win by 1.5 runs, with a total set at 9.0 runs. Expert predictions lean towards the Red Sox winning on the moneyline and covering the spread, reflecting their recent form. Both teams have shown variable performances in their recent outings, making this a crucial game for both sides in the playoff race.

The Baltimore Orioles have taken a significant step by trading right-handed reliever Bryan Baker to the Tampa Bay Rays for the 37th pick in the 2025 MLB amateur draft. This move signals the possibility of the Orioles becoming sellers as they sit 12.5 games behind the Toronto Blue Jays in the division. Orioles GM Mike Elias hinted at the trade deadline, referencing the Detroit Tigers' previous season where they held onto key players while still making trades.

Since changing managers to Tony Mansolino, the Orioles have improved their record, going 21-14. Despite this, Elias emphasized the importance of the draft, stating that having multiple picks enhances their opportunity for future success. Additionally, the team anticipates the return of several players from the injured list, which could bolster their roster moving forward.

MLB's highly anticipated Home Run Derby is set for 2025 at Truist Field, home of the Atlanta Braves, featuring eight of the league's top sluggers. Participants will aim to hit the most home runs within a time frame, with the top four from the initial round advancing to the semifinals. This thrilling competition has seen past champions like Teoscar Hernandez, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Juan Soto.

The 2025 lineup includes Ronald Acuña Jr. from the Braves, James Wood of the Nationals, Oneil Cruz representing the Pirates, Cal Raleigh from the Mariners, Byron Buxton of the Twins, Junior Caminero of the Rays, and Brent Rooker from the Athletics. The event will be broadcast live on ESPN, offering streaming options for fans who want to catch every moment.

The waiver wire in fantasy baseball remains crucial as the MLB All-Star break approaches. Among the top targets are Colson Montgomery of the Chicago White Sox, who is now gaining traction with a low rostered percentage, suggesting he may be a savvy pick-up for teams in need of infield depth. Also noteworthy is Cam Schlittler, recently debuted for the New York Yankees, struggling initially but showing potential with his strikeout numbers, making him a viable option in deeper leagues.

Joe Boyle from the Tampa Bay Rays stands out with 14 strikeouts in his last 10 innings, indicating a strong performance that could translate into wins and strikeouts for fantasy managers. As injuries plague players like Byron Buxton of the Minnesota Twins, monitoring the waiver wire becomes essential for maintaining competitive rosters in the lead-up to the All-Star festivities.