A Trade About Money, Not Manpower  —  Francisco Rodriguez's recent change of agents helped hasten his trade to the Milwaukee Brewers, a critical deal that at least marginally enhances the Mets' ability to re-sign Jose Reyes.  —  Rodriguez hired Scott Boras to represent him this month …

Christian Lopez gets plenty of help  —  One good turn deserves another, and another, and another.  —  Christian Lopez, a 23-year-old cellphone salesman from Highland Mills, N.Y., decided to return Derek Jeter's 3,000th hit ball Saturday instead of trying to cash in.

Jaime Garcia signs with Cardinals  —  ST. LOUIS — The St. Louis Cardinals solidified their rotation for the future Wednesday, signing left-hander Jaime Garcia to a four-year contract extension with club options for a fifth and sixth season.  —  “Jaime is one the best young arms in baseball,” general manager John Mozeliak said.

The 100 Worst Baseball Players Of All Time: A Celebration (Part 1)  —  Eric Nusbaum — This is a celebration.  I realize that sounds strange—compiling a list of the worst of something doesn't seem like a joyous occasion.  But by worst 100 baseball players I don't just mean the objective worst …

Joe Buck Cites Willie Mays ‘Interview’ from Wall Street Journal that Never Happened  —  FOX MLB announcer Joe Buck was providing commentary during the All-Star Game about several players skipping the Midsummer Classic.  Buck was obviously dissatisfied that so many players elected not to partake in the game …

Prospects Chat With Jim Callis  —  Moderator: Jim Callis will answer your draft, prospects and major league questions beginning at 3 p.m. ET.  —  Steve Dakota (Orlando,Fl): Does Matt Moore have better overall ‘stuff’ than Clayton Kershaw?  How do they compare?

New low for All-Star Game ratings  —  PHOENIX (AP) — Baseball's All-Star game has drawn a record-low rating for the second straight year.  —  The National League's 5-1 win Tuesday on Fox earned a 6.9 rating and 12 share.  That's down 8 percent from the 7.5/13 in 2010.

Braves to shut down Medlen for six weeks  —  What the Braves thought was a minor setback for Kris Medlen in his recovery from elbow reconstruction surgery will now force them to shut him down for six weeks.  —  Braves general manager Frank Wren said Wednesday that Medlen is suffering …

The Yankees on the Yankees  —  We Asked the Tough Questions: Who'd Win ‘Jeopardy’?  Who Has Your Back in a Brawl?  Who Would Be Class President?  —  Photo Illustration by Patrick Conlon / The Wall Street Journal; Everett Collection, Southcreek Global/Zuma Press  —  Nobody knows a baseball player like his teammates.

Kirk Gibson's passion spills over to Diamondbacks players  —  In his first full season as Arizona manager, the former All-Star outfielder known for a fiery disposition is making the team a winner with a blend of toughness and flexibility.  —  Arizona Diamondbacks Manager Kirk Gibson has steered his team toward the top of the NL West.

Mark Prior pitches in game  —  TAMPA, Fla. — New York Yankees right-hander Mark Prior is back pitching after missing almost three months because of a strained groin.  —  The converted reliever said it was a step in the right direction Wednesday after allowing an unearned run and one hit …

As expected, Phillies lead the pack  —  PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Phillies are right where they were supposed to be, leading the majors in wins at the All-Star break.  —  It's proof what excellent pitching can do.  —  With Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels leading the way …