Weekend Series Preview 7/18-7/20
Baseball is back in full swing after the All-Star break, and the second half of the 2025 MLB season kicks off with some absolutely compelling matchups! From heated divisional rivalries to intriguing interleague showdowns, this weekend promises plenty of fireworks. Let's dive into some of the must-watch series.
Blockbuster Battle: Yankees vs. Braves in Atlanta
This is arguably the marquee series of the weekend. The New York Yankees (53-43), leading the AL East and looking like serious contenders, head south to Truist Park to face the Atlanta Braves (42-53). While the Braves have struggled in the first half due to a rash of pitching injuries, they still boast a potent lineup and will be eager to turn their season around.
Friday night's opener features a compelling pitching duel: the Braves will send their ace, Spencer Strider (3-7, 3.94 ERA), to the mound. Strider, despite his record, has the stuff to dominate any lineup, and he'll be tested by a Yankees offense that has been among the league's best in batting average and home runs. The Yankees have yet to name their starter for Friday, adding an extra layer of intrigue. Expect high-stakes baseball in this interleague clash.
Red-Hot Red Sox Square Off Against Consistent Cubs at Wrigley
Get ready for some classic baseball as two of the league's hottest teams meet at iconic Wrigley Field. The Boston Red Sox (53-45) are on an incredible 10-game winning streak and will look to continue their surge against the National League Central-leading Chicago Cubs (57-39). The Cubs have been a model of consistency all season and are vying for the best record in the NL.
Friday's pitching matchup features another intriguing battle of right-handers: Lucas Giolito (6-1, 3.36 ERA) for the Red Sox, who has been lights out recently, against the Cubs' steady veteran Colin Rea (7-3, 3.91 ERA). Both pitchers are in excellent form, setting the stage for a low-scoring affair. This series will be a true test for both clubs as they aim to prove their first-half success was no fluke.
Other Series to Watch:
Milwaukee Brewers (56-40) at Los Angeles Dodgers (58-39): A clash of NL powerhouses out West. Both teams are at the top of their respective divisions and will be looking to establish dominance as the season progresses. Expect stellar pitching and potent offenses to be on display.
Houston Astros (56-40) at Seattle Mariners (51-45): A critical AL West showdown. The Astros are looking to maintain their lead, while the Mariners are trying to close the gap. Every game in this series will feel like a playoff atmosphere.
Detroit Tigers (59-38) at Texas Rangers (48-49): The AL Central-leading Tigers head to Arlington to face a Rangers team that had a tough first half. Can the Rangers find some momentum against a strong Detroit squad, or will the Tigers continue to roll?
The second half of the MLB season is officially underway, and this weekend is packed with compelling storylines and crucial matchups. Grab your popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the return of America's pastime!