After a terrible April, Matt Shoemaker has been one of the best pitchers in baseball. What's changed? Plus Carlos Santana, Kyle Seager, Andrew Miller, Cameron Maybin.

Francisco Lindor is one of several young, high-upside bats whose monthly skill growth in the first half bodes well for big things from them down the stretch.

Perhaps no player in baseball has experienced the highs and lows of Ian Desmond the past two seasons. Can he continue his near-MVP pace?

Robbie Ray's steady skill gains by month make him a strong play in the second half.

It's not often that a big trade coincides with writing the Pulse. What are we talking about? Read on.

What's wrong with Chris Archer and can Francisco Lindor maintain this pace in the 2nd half? Plus performance validation analysis of Dustin Pedroia, Josh Reddick and Drew Storen.

Ryan Braun hasn't been able to match his numbers from 2015, but he's still been a five category contributor, and should continue to be the rest of the way. Plus, D.J. LeMahieu, Travis Jankowski, Jerad Eickhoff, and Mike Foltynewicz.

J.T. Realmuto has exceeded expectations with a .317 BA, 5 HR and 9 SB. Can he keep it up? Plus Bryce Harper, Bud Norris, Angel Pagan and Tony Cingrani.

Shin-Soo Choo has been banged up all year, but he's been productive when he's on the field. Can he contribute to the Rangers' pennant drive? Also Gallardo, Hicks, An. Sanchez, and Buxton.

Nine pens with speculative interest, for your consideration.

Danny Espinosa's recent surge has generated considerable buzz in Washington. Can he keep it up? Plus Freddie Freeman, Jaime Garcia, Jeanmar Gomez, and David Freese.