As we move into June, the focus shifts to assessing player performance and identifying potential game-changers available on the waiver wire. With the market becoming increasingly sparse, several players under 40% rostered on Yahoo leagues have emerged as promising additions.

Nick Kurtz of the Oakland Athletics, recently returned from an oblique strain, is displaying immense potential with his impressive bat speed. Despite some contact issues, his recent performance suggests a possible breakout. Meanwhile, David Festa from the Minnesota Twins has shown flashes of brilliance with a 95 mph fastball and strong secondary pitches but needs to improve his command for a consistent impact. Lastly, Jake Mangum of the Tampa Bay Rays is carving out a niche with a solid batting average and speed on the basepaths, making him a worthwhile pickup for teams in need of depth.

The Toronto Blue Jays, fresh off a strong home stretch, are set to embark on a crucial nine-game road trip beginning with a matchup against the Minnesota Twins. Currently holding a 33-29 record, they remain competitive in the tightly contested AL East, trailing the New York Yankees by 5.5 games.

In exciting news, the Blue Jays announced that Alek Manoah, a former first-round draft pick, is on track to face live hitters for the first time since June 2024. Manoah's journey has been tumultuous, highlighted by an All-Star appearance in 2022, but he struggled last season before being sidelined with an elbow injury. Meanwhile, Brandon Barriera, another first-rounder recovering from Tommy John surgery, is progressing well and will soon join the Florida Complex League for a rehab assignment.

As the Blue Jays look to improve their standing, both Manoah and Barriera's recoveries could significantly impact their pitching lineup for the rest of the season.

In today's MLB DFS picks, the focus is on maximizing value amidst a smaller main slate. Jack Flaherty is highlighted as a strong pitcher against the Angels, particularly with Mike Trout sidelined. Flaherty's solid metrics make him a viable option. Nick Lodolo also stands out after an impressive outing against the Rockies, with favorable matchups against the Nationals' high strikeout rate. Luis Castillo's recent form against the struggling Rangers further solidifies his value.

Among hitters, Cal Raleigh is poised to shine against Patrick Corbin, leveraging his power stats effectively. Gleyber Torres, if cleared from injury, presents a solid option against Kyle Hendricks, especially given his successful metrics against changeups and sinkers. The outfield features Riley Greene, with a hot bat against Hendricks' pitches, while Randy Arozarena is expected to excel against Corbin's cutter.

Stacking the Detroit Tigers against Kyle Hendricks and the Mariners against Corbin offers promising potential for scoring, given their favorable matchups. This slate emphasizes the importance of monitoring injury news and starting lineups, as they can significantly affect player performance and value.

Toronto Blue Jays' pitcher Trey Yesavage is off to an impressive start in his professional career, earning his first win by striking out eight batters in six scoreless innings against the Clearwater Threshers. Yesavage, drafted 20th overall last year, has quickly established himself as a top prospect, boasting a 2.31 ERA and 36 strikeouts in 23.1 innings this season.

Meanwhile, Blue Jays manager John Schneider provided updates on veteran Alek Manoah, who is working towards a return after Tommy John surgery, and three-time Cy Young winner Max Scherzer, currently sidelined with an injury. Yesavage may have the chance to learn from these accomplished pitchers as they potentially rehab in Single-A, enhancing his development as he approaches the big leagues.

Alek Manoah stepped back onto the mound for the first time in nine months following Tommy John surgery, throwing 15 fastballs with his Blue Jays teammates cheering him on. Overjoyed, the 27-year-old expressed gratitude for his recovery journey and reflected on his past year, which saw him struggle with injuries and performance. Manoah, who had been sidelined since June, described the emotional weight of returning to the diamond, comparing the experience to the excitement of Christmas Eve. As he prepares for the next steps in his comeback, he is eager to contribute to the Blue Jays' push in the second half of the season.

His path back to the mound involved a hybrid Tommy John procedure that repaired his elbow, and he shared that his new ligament is expected to endure for years. Manoah acknowledged that despite a difficult past season where he faced setbacks and demotion, he has maintained faith in his abilities and the support from his pitching colleagues has been invaluable. As he anticipates soreness, he remains hopeful and focused, ready to reclaim his place in the rotation.