Out of Left Field: The First Half of the Season is over, What will the 2nd Half Bring?

The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired Manny Machado from the Baltimore Orioles, and while the fact that Machado was being dealt was the worst kept secret in baseball, kudos to reporters for holding the story until after the All-Star Game. Does this move make the Dodgers the favorite, not only in the NL West but the National League as a whole?

Plus, the Cleveland Indians acquired Brad Hand and the Oakland Athletics traded for Jeurys Familia, two big-name arms to fill out these bullpens. The Indians are already a lock in the AL Central, but do they have a prayer against the other powerhouses in the American League? Can Oakland find their way into the postseason? What mindset do the A’s need to be in for the last 60 games of the year?

Finally, we talk about a great Home Run Derby and one of the best All-Star Games in recent memory and hand out our mid-season awards.

Join us for all that and more this week on Out of Left Field.

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