The New York Yankees have traded catcher Alex Jackson to the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for international bonus pool money and potentially cash or a player yet to be named. While this move seems minor, it highlights the Yankees' remarkable ability to develop catchers who later excel with other teams. Jackson, who previously was in the Yankees’ system but did not emerge as a regular, has worked under catching coordinator Tanner Swanson, who has successfully molded players like Jose Trevino and Kyle Higashioka into significant contributors.

This trade adds to a growing list of former Yankees catchers thriving in the league, with Trevino now starting for the Cincinnati Reds and Higashioka maintaining a steady role with the Texas Rangers. Luis Torrens has secured a position with the Mets and is known for his impressive caught-stealing rate and solid framing. Even Red Sox manager Alex Cora has acknowledged that the Yankees excel in producing quality catchers. Swanson’s techniques have transformed several players, demonstrating how the Yankees cultivate talent, even if they do not stay in New York.

This week’s analysis of American League free agents reveals a mix of potential breakout candidates and underwhelming options. Joe Boyle, a promising starting pitcher for the Rays, has showcased elite strikeout potential with a stellar Triple-A ERA and could be a valuable asset if he secures a spot in the rotation. Meanwhile, Joey Cantillo from the Guardians is stepping into a rotation void and could provide quick dividends with favorable matchups. However, veteran Dietrich Enns may be on thin ice following a poor outing, raising concerns about his long-term viability.

Among hitters, Jake Burger is re-establishing himself in the Rangers' lineup, while Brooks Baldwin of the White Sox could gain increased playing time due to injuries. Notable mentions also include rookie prospects like Wyatt Langford, who holds high expectations among fantasy enthusiasts. Bidding strategies reflect these players' potential impacts, with estimated auction values ranging from $1 to $15 across various league formats.

The Chicago Cubs are set to face the St. Louis Cardinals in a pivotal Sunday Night Baseball matchup, looking to secure a series victory. After dominating the opener with an 11-3 win, the Cubs are coming off a narrow defeat in Game 2. With a strong lead over their division rivals, Chicago is favored at -209 for this rubber match. Right-hander Erick Fedde, who has not won since May, is on the mound for St. Louis, while the Cubs will counter with Matthew Boyd, who has been in excellent form.

In the other game of the doubleheader, the San Diego Padres host the Texas Rangers, each team aiming to win the series after splitting the first two games. The Padres edged the Rangers in a thrilling 10-inning game, but Texas rebounded with a strong performance in Game 2. Jack Leiter, struggling to find his footing with three losses in his last five starts, will pitch for the Rangers, while the Padres have yet to announce their starting pitcher.

The Texas Rangers and San Diego Padres go head-to-head in the final game of their three-game series, having split the first two matchups. The Rangers secured a 7-4 victory on Saturday, propelled by Kyle Higashioka's impressive 3-for-3 performance with five RBIs. In contrast, the Padres clinched the first game 3-2 in extra innings, thanks to a walk-off single from Jake Cronenworth.

Rangers' Jack Leiter, who has struggled recently with a 4.29 ERA and a 4-5 record, is set to take the mound. The SportsLine model predicts he will exceed his strikeout prop of 3.5. The Padres have not yet announced a starter, as they may look for a replacement after Matt Waldron's last outing against the Phillies.

Corey Seager and Fernando Tatis Jr. are the co-favorites to hit home runs, alongside Manny Machado, who already has a home run in this series. The Padres are favored at -135 on the money line, while the Rangers sit at +114. As the series finale approaches, fans and bettors alike are keenly focused on the latest odds and player performances.

The MLB waiver wire is heating up as several players emerge as valuable fantasy options. Tyler O'Neill of the Baltimore Orioles, with a power upside, has returned from the IL but is currently hitting low numbers. Chandler Simpson of the Tampa Bay Rays has shown impressive speed, making him a solid addition for stolen bases. Evan Carter from the Texas Rangers is back and performing well, while Nolan Schanuel from the Los Angeles Angels is carving a niche for himself with good contact rates and emerging power.

Other noteworthy mentions include Tyler Freeman of the Colorado Rockies, who boasts a high batting average, and Zack Gelof of the Oakland Athletics, who brings power and speed potential. With the season progressing, these players are ones to watch as they could significantly impact fantasy rosters.