The MLB Draft and Futures Game have come and gone, but there's still plenty to discuss and analyze. While the draft may not have been the most exciting event, with a lack of star power and a confusing broadcast schedule, the Futures Game offers a more promising opportunity to showcase the league's top prospects. The American League prospects won 6-1, with dominant pitching performances from the Pirates and the Phillies' Gage Wood. The Marlins, meanwhile, are looking to add to their roster, with a focus on a third baseman, a back-end starting pitcher, and a high-leverage reliever. The team's farm system is not strong enough to support an all-in push, and the Marlins may resist adding salary, given their low average home attendance and estimated $75 million payroll. The Home Run Derby, on the other hand, is always a fun event, and this year's lineup includes some hometown favorites like Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber. The derby has gone back to an older format, with 20 swings in the first round and 15 in subsequent rounds. The Twins are tied with the Mariners for the third wild-card spot in the AL, while the Red Sox are on an impressive eight-game winning streak. The Yankees, meanwhile, have swept the Nationals, thanks to three consecutive late-innings comebacks. The Dodgers, however, have had a rough finish to the first half, getting swept by the D-Backs for the first time in the regular season since 2017.
