MLB Player News

Hinch said, “I don’t think [Verlander’s] taking a step forward, and he hasn’t taken a step back.” That’s not really confidence-inducing. Verlander is 43 years old, so it makes sense that he might not bounce back as quickly as he did 20 years ago. Given that his performance on the field has also been inconsistent, this seems like a situation the Tigers won’t rush, and fantasy managers should avoid.

Perez missed three games at the beginning of July with soreness in his throwing elbow. It’s probably a similar issue this time. Perez had an RBI single in one of his two at-bats before exiting.

Freeman stayed in initially after the scary incident, but he didn’t last long. Tommy Edman pinch-hit for him prior to his next at-bat.

Romo’s home run was his sixth of the year. He hit a solo shot off Rhett Lowder in the third inning. Romo’s home run was his first since May 25 against the Twins. Maybe he’ll continue to tap into some of his early-season power while Kyle Teel (ankle) is out, but Romo’s .136 average makes him unusable in fantasy.

Peraza was hit by a 95-mph fastball in the sixth inning, and though he stayed in to run, he was replaced by Adam Frazier the following inning.

Meidroth’s home run was his 12th of the year. He hit a two-run shot off Reds reliever Julian Garcia in the sixth inning. Meidroth returned to the lineup after missing two games with a wrist injury. Not known for his power, Meidroth has five home runs, 11 runs scored and 12 RBI over his last 14 games.

Lowder gave up seven hits, walked one and struck out four. He fell to 4-8 this season with the loss. Lowder won three of his first five starts this season, but has since won only one of his last 16 starts. He has a 5.15 ERA. Lowder is lined up to face the Cardinals at home next week, though he’s not a recommended fantasy option.

Castillo gave up one hit, walked two and struck out 10. He improved to 4-9 on the season with the win. Castillo gave the White Sox what they were looking for after he allowed five runs in his debut with the team last week. Castillo, who debuted with the Reds and spent six seasons in Cincinnati, dominated against his former team Wednesday. He’ll try to keep it going against the Cubs on the road next week.

Ortiz began the game on the bench with southpaw David Peterson on the mound for the Cubs. In the sixth inning, he pinch hit for Andres Chaparro and hit a home run off right-hander Javier Assad. Ortiz’ home run was his third in his first 26 at-bats in the major leagues. While his playing time will continue to be limited to the strong side of the first base platoon, his power appears legitimate enough to be worth a twirl in mixed leagues.

Swanson’s home run was his 18th of the year. He hit a solo shot off Nationals reliever Trevor Williams in the eighth inning. The home run was just Swanson’s second in 24 games in the second half so far. He’s hitting .216 with a .703 OPS and 66 RBI.