Biggest 2nd-half storylines? Here are a handful

The second half begins today and the Trade Deadline looms less than two weeks away. In short, buckle up! That said, let’s explore the biggest storylines to keep your eyes on as playoff races heat up and players set their sights on history.

On today’s episode …

ACT 1: (1:14-2:45) CAN A ROOKIE WIN THE CY? PLAYOFF CHASES

Fernando Valenzuela remains the only pitcher to win Rookie of the Year AND the Cy Young in the same season, way back in 1981. He may soon have company, though. In only 11 starts, Paul Skenes has established himself as the most dominant hurler on the planet. Not to be outdone, fellow rookie Shota Imanaga has been superb, too. Don’t be shocked if one of these guys takes home NL Cy hardware. Also, keep your eyes on the AL East race between the Orioles and Yankees and what promises to be a heated battle among NL Wild Card contenders.

ACT 2: (2:14- 4:22) IS OHTANI HEADED TO ANOTHER MVP? 8 STRAIGHT FOR ASTROS?

Though he’s not working his magic on the mound this season, don’t think Shohei Ohtani can’t win a third MVP Award. He’d be the first full-time DH to take the honor but he’ll have plenty of competition, including Bryce Harper, who owns two NL MVPs of his own and has the Phillies soaring with the best record in the bigs. Another storyline to watch? The Astros’ unprecedented quest for an eighth consecutive trip to the AL Championship Series.

ACT 3: (7:04-8:07) AN EARLY SECOND-HALF SHOWDOWN IN SEATTLE

And speaking of the Astros, they don’t have to wait long for a big-time opportunity as they head to T-Mobile Park tonight to kick off a crucial set with the Mariners, who hold just a one-game lead over Houston in the AL West.

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