MLB News Today: Dodgers win series against Giants; Mariners acquire Randy Arozarena; D-Backs trade for AJ Puk - July 25
With the second half of the MLB season in full swing, teams are looking to make a strong push into the playoffs. They are also looking to fit in the final pieces into their puzzle with the trade deadline less than a week away. Here's looking at the top stories from the world of baseball.
#1. Dodgers take series against divisional rivals Giants
Clayton Kershaw's return to the MLB was a happy affair as the Los Angeles Dodgers were able to take their third win of a four-game series against the San Francisco Giants on Thursday.
The veteran pitcher went through 4.0 innings, giving away two runs on six hits and two walks and striking out six batters. Nick Ahmed and Shohei Ohtani went long back-to-back in the bottom of the eighth inning to secure the lead and leave it to Brent Honeywell to close out the game.
#2. Mariners land important at-bat in Randy Arozarena
Seattle needed a strong batter in the outfield after its star OF Julio Rodriguez was placed on the Injured List. The Ms were able to strike a deal with common trade partner, the Tampa Bay Rays, as Seattle received Randy Arozarena.
The Rays have fallen out of contention in the AL East. The trade meant more sense, as the Mariners are locked in a see-saw battle in the AL West with the Houston Astros. Arozarena is batting at .285 since the start of June and is a strong defensive figure.
#3. A.J. Puk moves to Arizona from Miami
The Arizona Diamondbacks strengthened their bullpen with the addition of lefty A.J. Puk. The bullpen has mostly relied on the trio of Kevin Ginkel, Ryan Thompson and Paul Sewald. With Puk, the Diamodbacks can mix up the workload of the primary trio.
A.J. Puk has compiled an ERA of 2.08 in 28 games and was one of the sole bright spots in the Miami Marlins roster this season. The DBacks are 53-50 and chasing another NL Wild Card spot, currently sitting just one game behind the San Diego Padres who sit in the third spot.