There’s never a dull moment in MLB, at least not this season. The results of several teams are not what most fans would have expected, and the second half of the season is going to offer even more surprises after the All-Star break.

The Cubs Look for Solid Ground

After bidding farewell to the London series, the Chicago Cubs returned to Wrigley Field on Tuesday to embark on a six-game stretch at home, hosting both the Philadelphia Phillies and the Texas Rangers.

In a fortuitous turn of events, this ignited a remarkable streak of 13 consecutive games leading up to the much-anticipated All-Star break. It became very clear to the organization during these two weeks that the calendar needed some adjustments in preparation for the upcoming month of July. After their homecoming festivities this week, the Cubs will conclude the first half of the season by embarking on a seven-game trip to Milwaukee and New York.

The Cubs’ first game against the Phillies proved to be an exceptional test because of the quick transition after Monday’s game for the London series. Throughout the game, the Cubs managed to secure six hits, three of which were acquired in the first seven innings, while also racking up 12 strikeouts.

However, their starting pitcher Jameson Taillon struggled, allowing five runs on seven hits and a single walk during his five innings on the mound. The Cubs’ five hits did not produce much success, resulting in just one run.

The two meet again today in the second of a three-game series. The Phillies have an opportunity to pull ahead.

The Giants Keep Going

The San Francisco Giants, after claiming a 3-0 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre, are still alive in the National League. In an exemplary performance during another triumphant bullpen game, he deftly handles his authority and duties, effectively taming a menacing lineup while en route to an away win.

Ryan Walker ran into a minor hurdle, as it took him a few plate appearances to discover his exceptional form. However, he managed it without problems. As the fifth starter this season, he cemented his position by making his third straight appearance, facing talented right-handed pitcher Alex Wood.

In the second inning, Walker showed remarkable skills as he deftly maneuvered around a double and single that developed the game, successfully striking out the next three batters. Following their lead, Wood, who initially struggled against the Bells with a six-run deficit, managed to turn things around after the first game.

In his impressive performance, the left-handed pitcher deftly struck out seven Blue Jays players in five innings, exhibiting excellent control by giving away just five bases on balls on 80 pitches (54 hits).

The two teams will battle again today in their second game, with the Giants looking for another solid performance.

The Braves Aren’t Slowing Down

In just the first half of the season, the Atlanta Braves have accomplished a remarkable feat, setting a new record for the most home run games in franchise history. Amazingly, they have achieved this amazing milestone in just five games. Notably, three of these notable games took place in the span of this month alone.

The Braves broke the norm Tuesday night at Truist Park against the Minnesota Twins, offering a remarkable display of power. The only other MLB league that had accomplished the feat of hitting three home runs in games all season was stunned when the Braves effortlessly crushed five home runs in their first 10 plate appearances. Consequently, they secured a resounding 6-2 victory over the Twins, solidifying their dominance.

Ronald Acuna Jr. concluded his MVP credentials by hitting two home runs before Minnesota pitcher Joe Ryan scored his fourth. Acuña, with his second home run, surpassed Freddie Freeman to become the all-time leader in home runs at Truist Park.

On Ryan’s opening pitch, Acuna hit his 29th career home run, while Riley and Sean Murphy also hit their own home runs during Atlanta’s first four innings. This impressive display not only matched the Braves’ record for the most home runs in MLB, but also gave them an early lead with 75 first-inning hits, eclipsing any other team by 11 notable hits.

The Braves and Twins are back on the field today, with Atlanta looking for another win to add to their hot streak.