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Red Sox Place Ranger Suarez on Injured List With Groin Strain
The Boston Red Sox announced on Thursday that they placed left-hander Ranger Suarez (groin) on the 15-day injured list (retroactive to July 6) with a strained left groin and recalled infielder Brett Harris from Triple-A Worcester in a corresponding move. Suarez will now miss his final scheduled start of the first half of the season this weekend against the New York Mets after he was pulled from his last start on Sunday early against the Los Angeles Angels due to tightness in his left groin. He'll now be sidelined through the All-Star break, and it remains to be seen if he'll be ready to rejoin the rotation for the start of the second half next Friday. The 30-year-old Venezuelan hurler has pitched well enough in his first season in Boston to be held in all fantasy leagues while he recovers from his groin strain. Suarez has gone 4-3 with a 3.15 ERA (2.63 FIP) and 1.16 WHIP with 97 strikeouts and 26 walks in 91 1/3 innings pitched across his 17 starts. He continues to display strong control on the mound and has also posted a career-best 25.8% strikeout rate.
Source: Boston Red Sox
Source: Boston Red Sox
Willson Contreras Out on Thursday, Says he's "Day-to-Day"
Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (foot) is not in the team's starting lineup for Thursday's series finale in Chicago against the White Sox, according to MLB.com. Brett Harris will make the start at first base and will bat eighth against White Sox left-hander Anthony Kay after being called up from Triple-A Worcester. Contreras left Wednesday's game early after fouling a ball off his left foot, but he told reporters he doesn't think he has anything worse than a bruise and described himself as "day-to-day." Fantasy managers will need to remove him from their lineups on Thursday and check back on Friday to see if he's ready for the series opener in New York against the Mets. The 34-year-old Venezuelan has been a must-start in all fantasy leagues in 2026 in his first year in Beantown, as he's hitting .285/.379/.542 with a .921 OPS, 20 home runs, 61 RBI, 46 runs scored, and two stolen bases across his 312 at-bats. It's unclear if Contreras' foot injury will keep him from participating in the Home Run Derby on Monday.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Pete Alonso Still Carries League-Winning Power Potential
Across 402 plate appearances in 2026, Baltimore Orioles first baseman Pete Alonso is hitting .250/.341/.468 with 20 home runs, 62 RBI, 55 runs scored, and two stolen bases. The 31-year-old got off to a slow start to his first season in Baltimore, hitting .198 with four home runs through the end of April. However, Alonso has turned it on and looked like his usual self since then, crushing 16 home runs across 268 plate appearances since the start of May. Alonso's 12.5% barrel rate is down slightly from his career mark of 14.7%, but he's still making tons of hard contact (53.7% hard-hit rate). Now that the early-season adjustment to a new environment is behind him, Alonso profiles as one of the most reliable and durable power sources in fantasy baseball. In leagues where his value may still be lagging due to his slow start, Alonso profiles as a clear buy candidate for fantasy managers.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Bailey Ober Officially Activated and Starting on Thursday
The Minnesota Twins officially announced that they reinstated right-hander Bailey Ober (elbow) from the 15-day injured list and placed left-hander Connor Prielipp (finger) on the 15-day IL with a left middle-finger blister in a corresponding move. Ober will return to the starting rotation on Thursday to face the division-rival Cleveland Guardians at Target Field. He has recovered from a right flexor strain in his elbow that put him on the IL on May 30. The 30-year-old veteran is returning to a 6-3 record, 4.59 ERA (4.98 FIP) and 1.21 WHIP with 46 strikeouts and 18 walks in 66 2/3 innings across his 12 starts in his sixth year in the big leagues. The Guardians make for a pretty good matchup with an OPS (.677) that ranks 29th in baseball this season, but the soft-tossing Ober still won't be a recommended streamer in his first start back with the Twins. He had a 5.97 ERA (6.08 FIP) with 17 strikeouts and five walks in 28 2/3 frames in his five starts in May and has a career-low 16.4% strikeout rate so far in 2026.
Source: Minnesota Twins
Source: Minnesota Twins
Taylor Ward a Buy-Low Candidate Due to Second-Half Breakout Potential
Across 422 plate appearances in 2026, Baltimore Orioles outfielder Taylor Ward is hitting .254/.382/.353 with five home runs, 24 RBI, 55 runs scored, and three stolen bases. It's been a strange season from a power perspective so far for Ward, who posted a 13.7% barrel rate and slugged 36 home runs in 2025 but has seen his barrel rate dip to 5.8% this season. Ward reportedly suffered a bone bruise in his hand in mid-April that he's been playing through ever since, which could help explain the power outage. While it's possible that Ward's slugging ability simply will not return this season, the All-Star break may be the rest he needs to get closer to full health in the second half. The rest of Ward's profile remains strong, as he owns a 16.6% walk rate and has established an everyday spot at or near the top of the Orioles lineup. Fantasy managers may want to explore buy-low trades for Ward ahead of a potential power resurgence.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Tyler O'Neill Comes Off the Bench to Hit Two Homers on Wednesday
Baltimore Orioles outfielder Tyler O'Neill is pushing for more playing time. The 31-year-old veteran right-handed slugger came off the bench in Wednesday night's 9-7 loss to the visiting Chicago Cubs at Camden Yards to go 2-for-2 at the plate with two solo home runs. O'Neill is hitting just .193 (28-for-145) on the year with five home runs, 11 RBI, 19 runs scored, a stolen base, and a 27.7% strikeout rate in 166 plate appearances, but three of his five long balls on the year have come in his last 10 plate appearances. The former third-round selection by the Seattle Mariners in 2013 reached the 30-homer mark for the second time in his career in 2024 in his lone season with the Boston Red Sox, but he has fallen off a cliff the last two years in Baltimore, slashing .196/.293/.368 with a .661 OPS, only 14 homers, 37 RBI, 41 runs scored, five steals, 41 walks, and 97 strikeouts across 109 games (375 plate appearances). Since the beginning of June, O'Neill has been much better, going 13-for-50 (.260) with three homers, five doubles, three RBI, six runs, and a stolen base in 19 games.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Jo Adell Stays Hot With Two Homers in Rout of Rangers
Los Angeles Angels outfielder Jo Adell stayed hot at the plate in the team's 13-1 blowout win over the division-rival Texas Rangers on Wednesday on the road at Globe Life Field, going 2-for-4 with two home runs, five RBI, three runs scored, and a strikeout to raise his season average to .251 and his OPS to .703. The 27-year-old right-handed slugger is now up to 13 homers, 52 RBI, 42 runs scored, and three stolen bases in 92 games across 385 plate appearances in 2026 in his seventh year in the majors. He's added a .296 on-base percentage and .407 slugging percentage. After three hitless games to begin July, Adell is now on a three-game hit streak, and he's batting .276 (16-for-58) with three homers, three doubles, a triple, 11 RBI, and six runs scored in his last 15 games, dating back to June 20. Adell has lowered his strikeout rate to 22.1% this year, but his walk rate sits at a career-low 2.9%, which makes him a drain in OBP leagues. The former first-rounder can be streaky, but he proved last year by hitting 37 homers and driving in 98 runs that he can carry a fantasy squad with his power when he's on.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Is Wilyer Abreu Currently Undervalued by Fantasy Managers?
Across 383 plate appearances in 2026, Boston Red Sox outfielder Wilyer Abreu is hitting .260/.331/.423 with 10 home runs, 41 RBI, 43 runs scored, and six stolen bases. While Boston largely deployed Abreu in a big-side platoon role in both 2024 and 2025, the 28-year-old has proven he can hit lefty pitching so far this season. Across 118 plate appearances against lefties, Abreu is slashing .356/.436/.525 with an 11.9% walk rate and a 14.4% strikeout rate. Abreu's underlying contact metrics also remain strong, as he's logged a 10.3% barrel rate overall this season while lowering his strikeout rate to a career-best 20.9%. While Abreu may not carry high-end fantasy upside in any one category, he profiles as a solid compiler now that he's established himself as an everyday player. Fantasy managers in need of outfield help may want to explore Abreu's value on the trade market.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Should Fantasy Managers Look to Sell High on Michael King?
Across 108 1/3 innings (19 starts) in 2026, San Diego Padres starting pitcher Michael King has recorded a 6-7 record with a 3.41 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, and 92 strikeouts. On the surface, King's numbers appear to be right in line with the quality level that he has established in recent seasons. However, the veteran right-hander's strikeout rate continues to decline. After posting a 27.7% strikeout rate in his first year with the Padres in 2024, King's strikeout rate fell to 24.7% in 2025 and is now down to 20.8% in 2026. King's 11.1% K-BB rate is below-average, and both his xERA (4.55) and FIP (4.03) suggest that he's currently outpitching his peripherals. The 31-year-old has also dealt with myriad injury issues in his career and has reached his current innings workload in just one other season. Between his declining strikeout rate and his shaky health track record, King might be a sell-high candidate for fantasy managers ahead of the All-Star break.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Does Nolan McLean Still Carry League-Winning Upside?
Across 101 1/3 innings (18 starts) in 2026, New York Mets starting pitcher Nolan McLean has recorded a 6-5 record with a 3.73 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, and 118 strikeouts. It's been a rollercoaster ride of a season so far for McLean, who pitched to a 2.55 ERA through the end of April but then struggled to a 6.10 ERA in May. The 24-year-old has been prone to blow-up outings this year, as he's allowed six earned runs or more on three separate occasions. Still, McLean pitched well in June (2.79 ERA), and his underlying numbers still hint at ace upside. McLean is averaging 96.3 miles per hour on his fastball and owns a stellar 19.2% K-BB rate. Fantasy managers may want to explore buying low on McLean ahead of the All-Star break due to his second-half breakout potential.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Tyler Tolbert Emerging as a Speed Threat to Target on the Waiver Wire
Across 57 plate appearances this season, Kansas City Royals utility man Tyler Tolbert is hitting .373/.411/.510 with two home runs, five RBI, 17 runs scored, and 10 stolen bases. The 28-year-old has been utilized as a pinch runner and a defensive replacement for most of 2026. However, Tolbert has moved into more of an everyday role of late and has been red-hot, collecting 12 hits in his last 16 plate appearances. Tolbert has never demonstrated much power throughout his professional career, so fantasy managers should not expect his current surge to be a sign of a full-scale breakout. Still, Tolbert offers elite speed, which has helped him log a .327 batting average across 114 career MLB plate appearances. For fantasy managers in need of stolen bases and some batting average upside, Tolbert could be worth targeting on the waiver wire.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Sal Stewart Heating Up Again, Clubs Two Homers on Wednesday
Cincinnati Reds infielder Sal Stewart was seeing the ball well in the team's 11-5 rout over the visiting Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday night at Great American Ballpark, going 2-for-4 at the plate with three RBI and a walk to raise his season batting average to .256 and his OPS to .822. In what has been a breakout first half for the 22-year-old former first-rounder in 2022, he now has a .341 on-base percentage, .481 slugging percentage, 19 home runs, 64 RBI, 50 runs scored, and 11 stolen bases in 91 games and 396 plate appearances in his first full season in the big leagues. Wednesday's contest was Stewart's second multi-homer performance of his career. After a lull following a hot start at the plate, Stewart has picked things up heading into the All-Star break, going 17-for-54 (.315) with five home runs, five doubles, 10 RBI, and 10 runs scored in 13 games across 58 plate appearances since June 24. He has done enough in the first half in his second year in the majors to earn his first All-Star appearance in 2026. Stewart is now rostered in 94% of Yahoo leagues.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Pete Crow-Armstrong Homers Twice to Reach 20-20 Mark
Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong continued his strong start to July in the team's 9-7 victory over the hosting Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday night at Camden Yards. Crow-Armstrong went 2-for-4 at the plate as the leadoff man with two solo home runs, three runs scored, a walk, and two strikeouts, to become the league's first 20-20 player in 2026. The 24-year-old left-handed-hitting outfielder has an eight-game hitting streak in which he's gone 13-for-28 (.464) with four home runs, a double, seven RBI, nine runs scored, and three stolen bases. His strong run of late offensively has boosted his season line to .296/.386/.542 with a .928 OPS, 21 home runs, 52 RBI, 23 stolen bases, and 60 runs scored in 92 games and 400 plate appearances. Crow-Armstrong is proving he's the real deal after hitting 31 homers, driving in 95 runs, and stealing 35 bases in his second full season in the big leagues in 2025 with the Cubbies. After a brutal second half last year, he has rebounded and displayed better plate discipline.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Dylan Cease Continues Excellent Season, Takes No-Hitter into the Ninth
Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Dylan Cease nearly had the second no-hitter of his career in Wednesday night's 10-0 shutout victory over the hosting San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Cease was marvelous, allowing just one hit and no runs while walking three and striking out 11 to win his sixth game of the year and lower his ERA to 2.56. The 30-year-old took a no-hitter into the ninth inning, but outfielder Heliot Ramos led off the frame with a single to break it up. Cease threw 81 of his 118 pitches for strikes and recorded his sixth game of the 2026 season with double-digit strikeouts. In addition to his strong 2.56 ERA, Cease also has a 1.13 WHIP and American League-leading 148 strikeouts in 98 1/3 innings in his first year in Toronto. The former sixth-rounder of the Chicago Cubs in 2014 now has back-to-back shutouts going into the All-Star break after tossing seven shutout frames with a walk and nine strikeouts his last time out against the division-rival Seattle Mariners. Cease is certainly in play to start the All-Star Game next week for the AL.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Collin Murray-Boyles Looking to Expand Game After All-Rookie Season
Toronto Raptors forward Collin Murray-Boyles is expected to take on more on-ball work in the Las Vegas Summer League, according to Michael Grange of Sportsnet. Raptors assistant Ivo Simovic, who will coach Toronto's Summer League team, said the club needs Murray-Boyles to become less one-dimensional as it pushes him toward a bigger role. The No. 9 pick averaged 8.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.9 assists as a rookie before jumping to 14.4 points, 6.4 boards, 2.4 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.1 blocks in the playoffs. The defensive stats already carry fantasy appeal, but added ball-handling and shooting growth would raise his ceiling.
Source: Michael Grange
Source: Michael Grange
Brooks Lee Can Help Win Your League
Minnesota Twins shortstop/third baseman Brooks Lee has been a key contributor for the Twins this season and has climbed from the bottom of the lineup to the second spot in the batting order. Through 89 games, the 25-year-old switch-hitter is hitting .252 with 14 homers, 13 doubles, and 55 RBI. Last season, he had 16 homers, but needed 139 games to get there with a .286 wOBA. This season, his wOBA is up to .323, and he has hit eight homers in his last 34 games with a .340 wOBA since May 31. He's added five stolen bases as well, and his solid overall counting stats can be a big boost to your roster if you need help on the left side of the infield. While his contact metrics won't blow anyone away, his consistent, solid production and premium spot near the top of the batting order make him a well-rounded addition from the waiver wire or via trade to fortify your infield.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Cade Otton Remains a Streaming Option in 2026
Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Cade Otton has been a model of consistency over the past two seasons, making exactly 59 catches in both 2024 and 2025 and finishing right around 600 receiving yards in each year. Unfortunately, a lack of red zone usage has prevented him from ever finishing as a top-12 fantasy tight end, having never topped four scores in a season and finishing his most recent campaign with only one touchdown catch. While the Buccaneers' most prolific touchdown-scorer of all time, Mike Evans, was allowed to depart in free agency, Tampa still boasts a deep receiver room, topped by Emeka Egbuka, Chris Godwin Jr., and Jalen McMillan. Even if Otton should find more involvement near the end zone, his floor could be significantly lowered if the team's top pass catchers are all able to stay healthy, something they were unable to accomplish a season ago. Still a worthwhile depth piece in dynasty leagues, Otton is RotoBaller's TE29 for 2026 and figures to factor as little more than a streaming option to help navigate through injuries and bye weeks.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Is Jarren Duran Poised for a Big Second Half?
Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran is hitting below the Mendoza Line this season, but he could be a key pickup for the second half if he's available on the waiver wire or via a cheap trade. Duran hit .170 with one homer through the first 26 games of the season, but in May, he turned things around and hit .261 with nine homers and a .372 wOBA in 27 games. He's cooled back off in June and July, hitting .161 with three homers and only a .215 wOBA. Duran is an extremely streaky hitter and did pick up multiple hits in two of his last three games. He has dropped way down the lineup, lately, and has failed to live up to his draft-day expectations. However, if he gets hot in the second half with the Red Sox or another team after a change of scenery, he could be a key difference-maker down the stretch.
Source: RotoBaller.
Source: RotoBaller.
Can Jared Goff Help to Win Leagues in 2026?
Since the start of the 2022 season, Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff has led the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns. In four fully healthy seasons with the Lions, he has never finished outside the top 10 for fantasy, and despite expected improvements to both the team's offensive line and play calling ahead of the 2026 season, he is currently being drafted as the QB16. The Lions return both 1,000-yard receivers from a year ago, and with tight end Sam LaPorta expected back at full health and three-time Pro Bowl running back Jahmyr Gibbs ready to inherit a true bell cow role, an easy argument could be made for Goff's supporting cast as the strongest in the league. The former first overall pick has topped 4,400 passing yards and 29 touchdowns in each of the past four seasons, and with the Lions boasting what is on paper one of the league's most fantasy-friendly schedules, there is no reason to expect that streak should end in 2026. In a season where the third, or even fourth tier of fantasy quarterbacks is deep and flat, Goff may be the poster child for punting at the position and is capable of delivering a league-winning performance from the closing rounds of drafts.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Terry Rozier Seeking an NBA Return Amid Legal Issues
Former Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier wants to play in the NBA again while fighting sports gambling charges, according to the Associated Press. His path back remains complicated, as bail conditions currently limit his travel and bar contact with certain potential witnesses. Rozier remains a free agent after Miami released him in April, and he missed the 2025-26 season after being placed on leave. Even before his legal hurdles, the 32-year-old struggled to produce, averaging just 10.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.6 assists while shooting 39.1 percent from the field across 64 games in 2024-25. His fantasy profile remains entirely on hold until he signs with a team and his court restrictions are eased enough for him to take the floor.
Source: MICHAEL R. SISAK
Source: MICHAEL R. SISAK
Stephen Silas Set to Join Darko Rajakovic's Raptors Staff
According to Michael Grange of Sportsnet, the Toronto Raptors are expected to hire long-time NBA assistant Stephen Silas to join Darko Rajakovic's coaching staff. He replaces James Wade and Mike Batiste, who recently accepted a role with Panathinaikos. Silas brings over two decades of experience, highlighted by a three-year run as head coach of the Houston Rockets. While an assistant hire rarely carries direct fantasy value, Silas adds important offensive structure and a proven track record of guard development. With Rajakovic recently signing a multi-year extension and the front office reacquiring Kawhi Leonard to pair with Scottie Barnes, Toronto's rotation philosophy is taking a much clearer shape. The coaching staff now offers fantasy managers a reliable baseline for how minutes will be distributed during training camp.
Source: Michael Grange
Source: Michael Grange
Is It Time to Buy Low on Devin Williams?
New York Mets relief pitcher Devin Williams has picked up 13 saves in his 33 games this season, but he has allowed three runs on six hits in his last two outings and was charged with his second blown save of the year on Monday. His opportunities have been limited due to his team's overall struggles, and his 4.85 ERA and 1.65 WHIP are definitely not what fantasy managers were hoping for when they drafted him as a top closer. He does have 43 strikeouts in 29 2/3 innings, so the potential is still there, but irregular work and limited opportunity have held him back. If the Mets' new youth-infused lineup can help jumpstart their team in the second half, Williams has an elite ceiling. He's worth checking in on as a buy-low candidate since his manager could be frustrated with the Mets' disappointing season so far.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Tez Johnson Buried on a Deep and Healthy Depth Chart
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Tez Johnson popped up on the fantasy radar by taking advantage of an injury-depleted receiver room as a rookie in 2025. With the overlapping absences of Mike Evans, Chris Godwin Jr., and Jalen McMillan thrusting him into a featured role, Johnson made 22 catches for 274 yards and five touchdowns over a seven-game mid-season stretch in which he became a regular part of the fantasy discussion for the Buccaneers. While Evans' departure in free agency means Tampa will be without its all-time receiving leader for the first time since 2013, the depth in the room is as strong as it's been in the Baker Mayfield era, with both Godwin and McMillan expected to be back at full health and 2025 first-round pick Emeka Egbuka looking to take another step forward after showing flashes of dominance as a rookie. The team also spent a third-round pick on 6'3" boundary receiver Ted Hurst, leaving Johnson to fight for the fourth or fifth spot on the depth chart and potentially limiting him to a handful of gadget packages. At RotoBaller's WR116, he does not figure to factor into 2026 drafts, but having already demonstrated the ability to contribute in a pinch, Johnson could again be targeted on waiver wires should in-season injuries thin the Buccaneers' receiver room.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Jacob Webb Earns Another Save for Cubs, Entering Short-Term Must-Start Territory?
Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Jacob Webb closed out his team's 9-7 win in Baltimore with a clean ninth inning, getting three straight groundouts to earn his fourth save of the season. He has not given up a run in seven straight outings, going 2-0 with two saves and a hold, while also recording eight strikeouts in 7 1/3 innings. On the season, the 32-year-old righty has a 3.18 ERA and 3.85 FIP, with 47 strikeouts in 39 2/3 innings. Webb seems to be the preferred option in the closer committee when available, although Trent Thornton earned a save on Tuesday after Webb came in to escape a bases-loaded jam in the seventh. The Cubs' primary closer, Daniel Palencia (elbow), is recovering from a flexor strain and will not return until after the break. He has not started a rehab assignment yet, so Webb could remain in an expanded role for a few more weeks, making him a valuable option in the bullpen for your fantasy team. For as long as he's getting high-leverage work, he's a strong option to grab from waiver wires or to start if you have him on your roster.
Source: ESPN
Source: ESPN
Egor Demin Shows More Aggressive Attack for Nets
Brooklyn Nets guard Egor Demin has made his improved offensive aggression a key Summer League storyline, according to Brian Lewis of the New York Post. Demin reportedly added 13 to 15 pounds in the offseason and has looked more comfortable using his size to get into the paint. The 20-year-old averaged 10.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists as a rookie last season, but his fantasy ceiling depends on turning that playmaking base into more efficient scoring. If the added strength leads to more rim pressure and free-throw chances, Demin could take a useful second-year step.
Source: Brian Lewis
Source: Brian Lewis
Kaelon Black Battling for an Important Insurance Role
After not even receiving an invite to the NFL Combine, the San Francisco 49ers selected running back Kaelon Black in the third round of the 2026 Draft, making him the third running back off the board, after only first-rounders Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price. While head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch have gotten uninspired returns from the running backs they've drafted in recent years, particularly those viewed as reaches by the draft community, as was Black, there is no denying the favorable situation the rookie finds himself in. Four-time All-Pro Christian McCaffrey recently turned 30 and is coming off a season in which he touched the ball a career-high 450 times, and with Brian Robinson Jr. departing in free agency, Black's biggest competition for primary backup duties comes from 2025 fifth-rounder Jordan James. As a rookie, James did not register a single offensive stat until taking over late in the team's Divisional Round blowout loss to the Seahawks, but a year in the system could give him an early edge heading into 2026. While RotoBaller currently has neither ranked as a top 50 fantasy back for redraft leagues, the training camp battle between Black and James will be one to monitor, and should either gain a demonstrative edge, they will force their way into the late-round discussion for 2026 drafts.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Jonas Valanciunas Drawing Knicks Interest in Free Agency
Free-agent center Jonas Valanciunas is among the centers on the New York Knicks' radar, according to SNY's Ian Begley. The Knicks had interest in Valanciunas during the 2024 offseason, and Begley noted that New York would have solid center depth if he chooses them in free agency. The veteran big man averaged 8.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 65 games last season while playing a limited role in Denver. New York already added Andre Drummond behind Karl-Anthony Towns, so Valanciunas would likely need a clear backup role to regain fantasy relevance. His best path remains rebounds, efficient scoring, and short-minute double-double production.
Source: Ian Begley
Source: Ian Begley
Mets Promoting Dan Hammer, Worth a Speculative Add?
New York Mets relief pitcher Dan Hammer will be called up to add another right-handed option to the bullpen on Thursday. The 28-year-old has spent time in the Orioles and Rays systems over the last eight years, reaching Triple-A for the first time in his career this season with the Mets. Hammer has reached 98 mph during his time with Triple-A Syracuse and posted a 1.77 ERA over 17 appearances after posting a 2.77 ERA in 10 games in Double-A. Hammer's velocity and solid recent results give him intriguing upside if you're in a deep league that rewards relief pitching. The Mets' bullpen has struggled this year, and Devin Williams and Tobias Myers were each charged with a blown save already this week, in games the team eventually won. Hammer will likely slot in as a middle relief or setup role to begin his MLB career, but if he continues to be so effective could work his way into more high-leverage spots.
Source: Anthony DiComo
Source: Anthony DiComo
True Freshman Cederian Morgan to Make Impact for Alabama?
Talented Alabama true freshman Cederian Morgan, who was the No. 5 wide receiver prospect in the 2026 recruiting cycle, has a real chance to make an immediate impact, according to Brad Crawford of CBS Sports. The Tide head into 2026 without its leading and third-leading receivers from last year, Germie Bernard (NFL) and Isaiah Horton (transferred). Ryan Coleman-Williams, Lotzeir Brooks, and NC State transfer Noah Rogers figure to open the season as the three starters out wide, but Morgan will have the opportunity to earn a role this fall. "One of the nation's most polished pass catchers in the 2026 class, Morgan arrives with the size, ball skills and route-running ability to contribute immediately," Crawford wrote. "He doesn't need a full season to develop physically, and his ability to win contested catches should make him an attractive option in the Crimson Tide's passing game. Fall camp development is key to Morgan cracking the two-deep." The Alabama native is one of the top true freshmen to watch in the SEC this year and has significant upside in the future.
Source: Brad Crawford - CBS Sports
Source: Brad Crawford - CBS Sports
Travis Hunter Expected to be a Full-Go for Training Camp
Still recovering from the LCL injury that ended his rookie season, Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver and cornerback Travis Hunter (knee) was a limited participant during June's minicamp practices, but NFL reporter Cameron Wolfe expects that he will be fully cleared for the start of training camp in late July. Wolfe also believes the second overall pick from the 2025 NFL Draft is "ready to be unleashed", now running over 20 miles per hour, which is faster than he was ever clocked before the injury. Hunter projects to be a full-time starter on defense, with some in the building believing he'll soon be included in discussions of the league's top 10 cornerbacks. Still expected to be used as a two-way player, the team's offensive depth should allow the luxury of making his week-to-week usage at receiver more game-plan-specific, and as such, Hunter is RotoBaller's WR73. While he boasts the upside to make him a potential bargain at ADP, his primary value in 2026 could come in best ball drafts, where he is currently coming off the board in the early-double-digit rounds.
Source: Cameron Wolfe
Source: Cameron Wolfe
