Tiger left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez, who’s pitching like a No. 1 (1.57 ERA), may be the biggest pitcher dealt at the deadline.

If the Tigers aren’t in the race, an E-Rod deal is very likely considering he has an opt-out after this season. (The opt-out may also slightly limit his value.)

The White Sox are an interesting potential seller. Lucas Giolito, Lance Lynn and Mike Clevinger would be obvious trade candidates. If they really want to blow things up, they could consider dealing ace Dylan Cease, but that seems pretty unlikely. …

The belief here is the usually consistent Cardinals will get back into the race despite their stunningly bad start. But they will need to figure out the Willson Contreras situation; it makes no sense for him to DH at that pay rate ($87.5 million).

What also makes little sense is that they determined he was the right man to replace the legendary Yadier Molina based on a 3 ½ hour meeting with him in Orlando this winter (via Ken Rosenthal). A job interview is no way to choose players. Contreras has been in their division for more than a half decade; they should have had extensive intel on him.

Also, why remove him based on the word of the pitchers? He’s fine at blocking pitches, framing and throwing. If game calling is an issue, let the pitchers/coaches call pitches. …

The Orioles are an underplayed great story. Yennier Cano, who had an 11.50 ERA last year, has been unhittable, with a 0.16 WHIP. Despite being a reliever, his 1.8 WAR ranks just outside MLB’s top 10. …

Reds prospect Elly de la Cruz looks like a mega talent. He hit two home runs over 117 mph Tuesday, and a double 118.8 mph, which was the hardest hit ball in Triple-A or the majors this year (usual leader Giancarlo Stanton is on the IL). De la Cruz originally signed for $65,000.

Top Marlins pitching prospect, the 6-foot-8 right-hander Eury Perez, 20, debuts Friday against the Reds. From an AL scout: “Can outstuff hitters but needs to learn how to pitch. I think they’re rushing him.”