Boston rides momentum into San Diego for a three-game set that could shape the postseason picture. The Red Sox face catching depth concerns after Carlos Narvaez exited with a knee issue, prompting Boston to claim Ali Sánchez off waivers from Toronto for depth. Narvaez, batting .248 with nine homers and 33 RBIs, is considered crucial to Boston’s run, and his return Friday or Saturday would be a big lift. Connor Wong has struggled, so Sánchez could become a relative factor in late-season lineups. The Padres present a stern test, and the weekend could determine whether Boston sustains its AL Wild Card lead or slips closer to Toronto.

Narvaez’s injury updates and the Sánchez addition signal Boston’s focus on health and depth as it pursues a return to the playoffs for the first time since 2021. The club’s playoff positioning remains strong, four games back of the AL East-leading Jays and still atop the Wild Card race. In the final stretch, Narvaez’s availability and Sanchez’s development will matter, particularly if Boston edges toward a cautious approach to preserve Narvaez for postseason gameplay. The saga adds a fantasy-friendly subplot: how Boston manages its catchers down the stretch could swing daily-value for managers rostering their lineup.

Meanwhile, San Diego is Opening Weekend’s opponent in a late-summer sprint. The three-game pace will test both teams’ depth and fatigue management as they chase an October berth, with the Red Sox’s hot streak and the Padres’ momentum providing a compelling fantasy and betting narrative.

Toronto Blue Jays catcher Alejandro Kirk has been placed on the seven-day injured list due to a concussion following a foul tip incident during Saturday's game against the Detroit Tigers. Kirk was having an impressive season, ranking sixth in the majors with a .304 batting average, alongside seven home runs and 47 RBIs over 88 games. In his absence, the Blue Jays recalled catcher Ali Sanchez for the series finale against the Tigers. This move raises concerns for fantasy players reliant on Kirk's strong performance as they navigate roster changes and potential replacements.

The Toronto Blue Jays are actively bolstering their roster as they prepare to face the Philadelphia Phillies at Rogers Centre. The team is reinstating second baseman Andres Gimenez and catcher Tyler Heineman after they recovered from injuries. Their return is expected to provide a significant lift to the team’s performance as they approach critical matchups.

In a roster shake-up, the Blue Jays also designated infielder Michael Stefanic and catcher Ali Sanchez for assignment, indicating a strategic move to optimize their lineup and capitalize on player availability. This adjustment illustrates the team’s commitment to refining their roster for the remainder of the season.