MLB rumors: Wainwright retirement, Phillies prospect snag, more

Today’s MLB rumors roundup looks at a Phillies prospect injury and two pitchers that are struggling in the NL Central. 

While many MLB teams have been past the 81-game point for a bit now, Independence Day tends to feel more like the halfway point of the regular season. With a day of games behind us and the All-Star game coming up shortly, playoff pictures are coming into view.

Here’s everything to know on July 5th.

Brewers veteran pitcher hits open market

Matt Bush has been designated for assignment and subsequently released by the Milwaukee Brewers.

Bush has had a tough year. He’s appeared in 12 games and his ERA is closing in on 9.6 with a 1.645 WHIP. That said, he enters a free agent market that is hungry for pitching, as the position group has been the focal point of trade talks and necessary additions for almost any team.

While starting pitching is the hotter commodity right now, Bush could find himself on the roster of a team looking for depth in its bullpen. Unfortunately, he has only appeared in two playoff games, so while he has experience as a six-year veteran, he can’t sell himself as a playoff guru.