Portland mayor ‘confident’ about possible MLB expansion team: ‘Down to us and one other city’

The Toronto Blue Jays acquired Shane Bieber from the Cleveland Guardians to enhance their rotation as he returns from Tommy John surgery. The 30-year-old right-hander, a former AL Cy Young Award winner, has struggled with arm issues but has shown promise in the minors with a 1.59 ERA in four starts this season, potentially bolstering a seasoned pitching lineup. Want More Context? 🔎

The Mets traded for pitchers Ryan Helsley and Tyler Rogers to enhance their bullpen ahead of the trade deadline, sending prospects Jesus Baez, Nate Dohm, and Frank Elissalt to the Cardinals, and Blade Tidwell, Drew Gilbert, and Jose Butto to the Giants. Despite these moves, the Mets lost to the Padres, with Francisco Alvarez exiting early after a foul ball hit, though he cleared concussion protocol. Want More Context? 🔎

The Chicago Cubs have traded for right-hander Michael Soroka from the Washington Nationals, sending prospects Ronny Cruz and Christian Franklin in return. Soroka, an impending free agent with a 4.87 ERA this season, could bolster the Cubs' rotation or bullpen as they pursue a division title, while the Nationals gain promising prospects from the Cubs' deep system. Want More Context? 🔎