Standout Pitchers Making Waves
Javier Assad has turned heads by silencing the Giants in two consecutive starts, delivering 12.1 scoreless innings after re‑entering the Cubs rotation. Sean Manaea, now with the Mets, has paired a noticeable fastball velocity uptick with sharper command, while Martin Perez continues to anchor the Braves with a sub‑3.00 ERA and a tight 1.05 WHIP over 62 innings. Kodai Senga’s latest outing marked his most effective start since returning from injury, as he limited the opposition to a single run on just one hit while striking out five in six frames.
Rehab Assignments and Emerging Position Players
DJ Herz is making progress in the rookie‑level Florida Complex League after his Tommy John surgery, showing the kind of poise that could fast‑track his return. Emilio Pagan is slated for an MRI and may soon begin a rehab stint, while Ryan Walker, once the Giants’ closer, has been demoted but is posting stronger numbers at Triple‑A Sacramento. Francisco Alvarez’s early promotion to the Mets has already exceeded expectations after knee surgery, and Blaze Jordan is batting .313/.373/.548 with 11 homers in Triple‑A Memphis, signaling real power potential. Jake Cronenworth remains on the mend from a concussion and will likely need a minor‑league rehab before rejoining the lineup, whereas Tommy Edman, recovering from right ankle surgery, could soon see increased second‑base opportunities. Nick Solak’s recent call‑up to the Padres comes on the heels of a .333/.412/.512 stretch with nine homers in Triple‑A El Paso, and Jordan Lawlar has been activated, promising steady action in the Diamondbacks’ outfield. Matt Shaw’s return to the Cubs after a rehab assignment could translate into more playing time amid recent struggles, while Cole Carrigg offers fantasy upside with a blend of pop and speed, seeing regular turns in center field for the Rockies. Finally, Tyler Callihan is capitalizing on extra at‑bats after Oneil Cruz’s injury, boosting his own production.