MLB.com | Thomas Harrigan: Giancarlo Stanton was voted into the All-Star Game as a starter for the fifth time in his career and first time as a Yankee, fending off a late challenge in fan votes from Toronto’s George Springer. Stanton joins teammate Aaron Judge, the AL’s overall voting leader, in the starting field alongside Mike Trout, and he hinted that he strength also participate in the Home Run Derby. Unsurprisingly, Jose Trevino’s attempt to start behind the plate was halfhearted against Toronto’s Alejandro Kirk, who picked up the win, so if Trevino makes the team it will be as a reserve. These will be announced late Sunday afternoon.
Illustrated Sports | Max Goodman: If there’s been one constant in Brian Cashman’s career, it’s that he’s always willing to get involved around the trade deadline. The Yankees general manager is still one of the busiest people in the game this time of year, but insists that even with the Yankees atop the AL East by far, his plans for the 2 August have not changed. The team will likely still be looking to make marginal additions, but being up 15.5 games hasn’t drastically changed the strategy.
NJ.com | Bridget Hyland: One of those upgrades, though probably more than just a marginal addition, could be Pittsburgh Pirates center Bryan Reynolds. The 2021 All-Star price tag would be exorbitant, and any conversation around Reynolds should start with at least Jasson Dominguez, if not a better prospect as the centerpiece.
New York Daily News | Kristie Ackert: Gerrit Cole has a problem with Rafael Devers, as the Red Sox third baseman pushed him deep twice Thursday night to hit six career home runs against him, working a walk the only other time he came to home plate. Wandy Peralta, meanwhile, had no problem against Devers, designing weak ground, the final chapter in what has been a very underrated run for the left-handed reliever. It boasts a sub-2.00 ERA, without the dazzling takedown rate we’re used to with modern relievers.
New York Post | Ian O’Connor: Despite the Yankees dominating their division — again, entering today 15.5 games ahead — the next three AL East teams would own all three Wild Card slots. Year after year, the East is the best division in baseball, and while it looks like the Yankees are destined for a showdown with the Astros in October, it could end up being a division rival that eventually gets in the way. of their way.
