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Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Thursday, July 9

Mets Call Up Dan Hammer to Bolster Bullpen

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The New York Mets have recalled right-handed pitcher Dan Hammer to the active roster ahead of Thursday's series finale against the Royals. The move is intended to provide a fresh arm for the bullpen as the team navigates a demanding stretch of games without an off day leading up to the All-Star break.

Mitch Keller Starts Against Braves Amid Community Recognition

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Mitch Keller is set to take the mound for the Pittsburgh Pirates in today's home series finale against the Atlanta Braves at PNC Park, where the team aims to leverage home-field advantage. Beyond his on-field duties, Keller has recently been highlighted for his compassionate character, specifically regarding his meaningful friendship and recent visit with a young cancer survivor.

Bryce Elder Takes the Mound Against Pirates

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Bryce Elder is set to start for the Atlanta Braves in the series finale against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. The right-hander looks to secure a victory for Atlanta and potentially snap out of a recent slump following a brief layoff. He remains a key focus for the Braves as they wrap up their current series.

Vinnie Pasquantino Nearing Return to Royals Lineup

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Royals manager Matt Quatraro indicated Thursday that Pasquantino could be activated from the injured list as soon as Friday's series opener against the Orioles. The first baseman has been sidelined with a hand injury, but his potential return provides a significant boost to the Kansas City lineup as they look to integrate him back into the active roster.

Luis García Jr. Fantasy Outlook Examined

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Fantasy baseball analyst Corbin Young has highlighted Luis García Jr. as a player to consider for trade acquisition. The analysis focuses on hitter skill and luck factors, noting the potential value of García within the high-powered Nationals' offensive lineup.

AJ Smith-Shawver Advances to Triple-A Rehab

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The 23-year-old right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver has moved his rehab assignment up to Triple-A. This progression marks a significant step forward in his recovery as he works toward returning to the Atlanta Braves' major league pitching staff.

Fernando Tatis Jr. Highlighted as Top HR Prop Bet

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SportsLine MLB expert Adam Thompson has identified Fernando Tatis Jr. as one of the best home run prop bets for Thursday, July 9. Tatis remains a focal point for bettors looking for power production in the San Diego Padres' lineup.

Mike Trout Returns to Action with Home Run

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Mike Trout made a triumphant return to the field following his anniversary celebration, marking the occasion with a home run. His performance in Wednesday's action demonstrated that he is back in form and providing the elite production expected from the Angels' star.

Brandon Woodruff Faces New Shoulder Injury Setback

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The Milwaukee Brewers announced that an MRI revealed a new injury to Brandon Woodruff's anterior capsule, the same area that underwent surgical repair following the 2023 season. The team is currently seeking a second opinion to determine the best course of action for his troublesome shoulder.

Mets Unlikely to Trade Prospect Jonah Tong

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Despite an up-and-down campaign at Triple-A Syracuse, the New York Mets are reportedly unlikely to move prospect Jonah Tong ahead of the 2026 MLB trade deadline. The organization remains committed to his development.

Cam Schlittler Impresses in Yankees Sequence of the Week

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Cam Schlittler delivered a standout performance on Monday in Tampa, effectively silencing doubters and showcasing his potential as a key contributor for the New York Yankees.

Jake Irvin Completes First Simulated Game Since IL Stint

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Washington Nationals pitcher Jake Irvin threw a 30-pitch simulated game on Thursday, his first such session since landing on the injured list in May. Irvin, a staple of the Washington rotation since 2023, is making progress toward a return.

Matt Olson Nearing Franchise Consecutive Games Record

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Braves slugger Matt Olson is on the verge of tying the franchise record for consecutive games played as Atlanta wraps up their series against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Pete Alonso Belts 20th Home Run and Gains Top-Five Draft Recognition

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Alonso recorded his 20th home run of the season during Wednesday's 9-7 loss to the Cubs, finishing the game 1-for-5 with two RBI. Beyond his current on-field production for the Orioles, Alonso continues to receive high-level recognition, recently being projected as a top-five selection in a retrospective 2016 MLB redraft. His performance and draft pedigree highlight his status as a significant offensive force.

Tyler O'Neill Powers Orioles Offense With Two-Homer Performance

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O'Neill delivered a standout performance in Wednesday's 9-7 loss to the Cubs, going a perfect 2-for-2 at the plate. Both of his hits were solo home runs, showcasing his power in a high-scoring contest. O'Neill remains a key contributor for the Baltimore Orioles, providing consistent offensive production despite the team's narrow defeat in the matchup.

Riley Greene Highlighted as Top HR Prop Bet

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Riley Greene is currently at the top of expert Josh Inglis' home run tickets for Thursday, July 9. The Tigers outfielder is being heavily favored as a high-value prop bet for tonight's slate of games.

James Wood Leads MLB in Runs Scored

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Washington Nationals star James Wood is currently leading all of Major League Baseball in runs scored, distancing himself from the rest of the field in a dominant offensive campaign.

Hayden Mullins Makes Triple-A Debut

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Hayden Mullins made his first Triple-A start for the Red Sox affiliate in Worcester. He pitched three innings, walking four and allowing home runs, as he adjusts to the higher level of competition.

Brett Harris Hits Grand Slam in Triple-A Action

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Brett Harris delivered a highlight performance for the Red Sox's Triple-A affiliate in Worcester, crushing a grand slam to help secure a 5-4 victory in the first game of their double-header.

Devin Sweet Pitches in Red Sox Minor League Double-Header

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Devin Sweet provided relief pitching for the Red Sox's Triple-A affiliate in Worcester during their recent double-header against the Red Wings.