What a transformation for the Toronto Blue Jays! After a disappointing season last year where they hovered below .500, they now find themselves well positioned for the playoffs. Currently holding a wild-card spot, they are just a few games behind the New York Yankees for the top position. With the upcoming trade deadline approaching, GM Ross Atkins has indicated a desire to bolster the team's roster rather than to offload players. This year’s strategy appears to focus on improving run prevention, particularly through pitching enhancements, as the team's ERA is currently in the bottom 10 of the league.

Despite recent injuries to key players like Anthony Santander and Daulton Varsho, the offense has been robust. The Jays are seeking to add depth, particularly in pitching, to ensure they can maintain their competitive edge as they head towards October. With Max Scherzer's recent return and the emergence of Eric Lauer, hope is high for improved performance on the mound.

Josh Jung of the Texas Rangers is at a critical juncture in his MLB career, having recently surpassed 1,000 plate appearances. However, his performance has raised concerns, particularly regarding his inability to walk and struggle against fastballs, especially those up and in. These issues have contributed to a concerning month where his slash line plummeted to .167/.219/.233, ranking among the lowest in the league.

As the Rangers look to bolster their lineup, Jung's future role is in jeopardy. Manager Bruce Bochy hinted at possible demotions if performance doesn't improve, especially with teammates like Jake Burger and Wyatt Langford potentially reclaiming their spots. Jung is aware of his shortcomings and is actively seeking adjustments, but the team may soon have to make tough decisions regarding playing time.

The Texas Rangers are set to welcome back first baseman Jake Burger and outfielder Wyatt Langford this weekend after both players spent time on the injured list due to oblique injuries. Burger, who has struggled with a .220 batting average this season, was placed on the IL on June 21, while Langford, hitting .232, faced his own challenges before being backdated to June 25. They will both complete their rehab assignments at Triple-A Round Rock, and are expected to rejoin the Rangers during their series against San Diego.

Rangers President Chris Young expressed optimism about their return, especially considering the team is currently short-handed, missing Evan Carter due to a personal matter. The timing of their return could provide a much-needed boost as the Rangers look to maintain their competitive edge in the division. The team has been navigating challenges with injuries, hoping this reinforcement will propel them forward.

The Texas Rangers are facing a significant setback with starting pitcher Tyler Mahle, who has been diagnosed with a slight right rotator cuff strain. The team is opting to proceed cautiously in his recovery, postponing any throwing activities for several weeks. This delay means Mahle will miss the July 31 trade deadline, impacting the team's roster decisions and potential trades. Prior to his injury, Mahle boasted an impressive 2.34 ERA across 77 innings, making him a likely candidate for trade. With Mahle on the injured list since June 15 due to shoulder fatigue, the Rangers are now responsible for his $16.5 million salary this season but may avoid paying performance incentives related to innings pitched.

Adding to their challenges, the Rangers will also be without left-hander Cody Bradford, who has undergone season-ending surgery. This situation puts additional pressure on the remaining rotation, which currently includes Jacob deGrom, Nathan Eovaldi, Patrick Corbin, Jack Leiter, and Kumar Rocker. The loss of depth in the rotation could affect the team's competitive edge as they approach crucial mid-season decisions.

As July approaches, former Florida baseball players continue to shine in Major League Baseball. Pete Alonso has been the New York Mets' steady force, boasting a .296 batting average over the last week and sitting at 18 home runs for the season. His consistency is pivotal to the Mets' playoff aspirations. Meanwhile, Jac Caglianone, finding his footing with the Kansas City Royals, has struggled recently with a .040 average, but the team remains optimistic about his potential.

Injury woes have sidelined Wyatt Langford of the Texas Rangers, who was showing promise before his oblique strain. Harrison Bader of the Minnesota Twins and Jonathan India of the Royals also seek to improve their batting as they face slumps. Brady Singer had a mixed outing against the Yankees, registering four earned runs but racking up nine strikeouts, emphasizing his potential as a key player for the Cincinnati Reds.