PLV Weekly: Trust the Process

The D-backs have signed No. 18 pick Kayson Cunningham, a highly regarded high school shortstop from Texas, for a $4,581,900 bonus, and No. 29 pick Patrick Forbes for $3MM, slightly under slot value. Cunningham is noted for his hitting skills and speed, while Forbes, a 6'3" right-handed pitcher, has an upper-90s fastball and has shown resilience after injury setbacks. Need More Context? 🔎

Veteran reliever Daniel Bard has announced his retirement after a brief comeback attempt with the Mariners' minor league team, where he posted a solid performance. Bard, a former standout for the Red Sox and a National League Comeback Player of the Year with the Rockies, faced significant challenges throughout his career, including injuries and anxiety, but ultimately leaves behind a legacy of 457 1/3 MLB innings, 66 saves, and a 3.74 ERA. Need More Context? 🔎

The Orioles, currently 10 games under .500 and 13.5 games out of first in the AL East, are exploring trades for short-term players ahead of the trade deadline, as GM Mike Elias emphasized maintaining their core for future seasons. Notable players potentially on the market include Ryan O'Hearn, Cedric Mullins, and several pitchers like Zach Eflin and Charlie Morton, while key young talents remain off-limits. Need More Context? 🔎