Five major MLB storylines to watch in second half of season

The New York Yankees are expected to make significant moves before the July 31 trade deadline, with a notable potential trade involving breakout slugger Ben Rice. The 26-year-old first baseman is enjoying a standout season, boasting a .235/.326/.466 slash line with 14 home runs in 264 at-bats, highlighted by an impressive average exit velocity of 93.2 mph. Need More Context? 🔎

The Cardinals have signed fifth overall pick Liam Doyle, while the Braves secured underslot deals with first-rounder Tate Southisene and second-rounder Alex Lodise, allowing them to offer higher bonuses to fourth and fifth-round picks Briggs McKenzie and Conor Essenburg. Additionally, the Angels reached a $2.0772MM agreement with second-rounder Chase Shores, a promising 6'8" pitcher from LSU. Need More Context? 🔎

Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers star, is set to release a children's book titled "Decoy Saves Opening Day," co-authored with Michael Blank and illustrated by Fanny Liem, on February 3. The story follows Ohtani's dog, Decoy, as he tries to retrieve a lucky baseball in time for Opening Day, with proceeds aimed at supporting animal rescue organizations. Need More Context? 🔎