Since the All-Star break, Ludwick has been on fire — mashing seven homers with 23 RBI in just 68 at-bats. He has been a key player in the Reds jumping into a 5 1/2 game lead in the NL Central.

Garcia is slated to head out on a rehab assignment Monday and should be ready to roll by mid-August. Track his progress very carefully because if his shoulder strain is behind him, he could provide solid value over the last six weeks of the season.

Crisp has dealt with myriad health issues this year, but finally is well enough to be a regular contributor for the surprising A’s. If you’re looking for a boost in the runs scored and stolen base categories he has the potential to be a solid contributor down the stretch. Don’t forget that Crisp swiped almost 50 bags last year.

The next major challenge in our season is the July 31 interleague non-waiver trade deadline and you can bet your bottom dollar that there will be plenty of activity in the next several weeks. Don’t fall asleep at the wheel during this critical period.

Welcome to the All-Star break and the unofficial halfway point of the baseball season. We’re going to take this opportunity to review the first half difference makers – players that could have scooped off the wire who are likely propelling plenty of teams with Fantasy championship aspirations.

Now to turn our rant towards ESPN. ESPN started the year with a nearly two-week schedule in its Fantasy leagues and obviously didn’t get enough hate mail back in April so are heading in that same direction at the All-Star break. What an insane proposition. When you set your rosters in your ESPN league Sunday it will be for a full two weeks. The best (and really only) advice we can give here is to proceed with caution.

We’re celebrating some rather important birthday’s this week. It’s time to party as on Sunday Canada turns 145. Happy Canada Day! South of the border, our American friends celebrate Independence Day on Wednesday. Here’s wishing all a safe and happy holiday week.