The D-backs made a move to increase their bullpen depth on Thursday, signing right-hander Shawn Camp and assigning him to Triple-A Reno. Camp was released by the Cubs on July 7 after being designated for assignment. Arizona also released veteran pinch-hitting specialist Eric Hinske.

As optimistic as the Red Sox were about the possible return of Clay Buchholz, suddenly the prognosis isn’t looking too promising.

Infielder Ryan Roberts will be recalled from Triple-A Durham on Friday to take James Loney’s roster spot as the Rays first baseman will be placed on the three-day paternity list.

It was a Mets-flavored All-Star Week that will be remembered for Mariano Rivera’s “Mo-ment,” Yoenis Cespedes’ power and Tom Seaver leading a parade. It also was a week in which Major League Baseball reached records and registered increases in attendance, ratings, digital traffic, merchandise sales, media coverage and more.

With one of the most intense rivalries in sports, the Yankees and Red Sox already are plenty familiar with each other. The second-half schedule is only going to foster that relationship.

Stephen Drew will get at least another half-season to leave a good impression on the Red Sox as he’s expected to be activated from the 15-day disabled list on Saturday and play shortstop against the Yankees.

The second half begins Friday, and the Pirates return from the All-Star break by taking on the third-place Reds, who won the division last season, at Great American Ball Park.

Tommy Hanson, who has been out since June 26 with a right forearm strain, could return from the disabled list for Tuesday’s game, when the Angels will need a fifth starter for the rotation.

Cuban outfield prospect Dariel Alvarez has agreed in principle to a deal with the Orioles worth $800,000, he told MLB.com on Thursday.

The Cardinals held a short afternoon workout at Busch Stadium on Thursday, during which left fielder Matt Holliday took batting practice for the first time since suffering a right hamstring injury on July 11.

The rookies have been a mixed bag so far this season, with some reaching preseason and post-Spring Training expectations, some falling short and some coming from under or completely off the radar to get in the Rookie of the Year conversations.

Although Derek Lowe wouldn’t use the word retirement, the 17-year Major League veteran told USA Today on Wednesday his baseball career is done.

MLB.com’s columnists have chosen who they see as most likely players to be dealt before the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline.

With more than a few milestones being tracked entering the second half of this Major League Baseball regular season, let it be duly noted that the 50th episode of the hit MLB.com game show “Bucks on the Pond” was posted on Thursday. The “50 Bucks” show was taped at Target Field in Minnesota.

The Tigers didn’t get fleeced when they traded John Smoltz for Doyle Alexander 26 years ago. People point to that trade when lopsided deals are evaluated. But to criticize the Tigers is to miss a larger point.

The added Wild Card slot in each league — an arrangement that debuted last season — has added intrigue to the Trade Deadline. Because while some clubs are already undisputed sellers, several more could still climb into contention with a strong spurt.

This year’s Triple-A All-Star Game in Reno had a mix of veteran players who have had the opportunity to play in the Major Leagues as well as younger prospects waiting for their first chance. Regardless of their tenure in the game, it looked as if every player on the field cherished the opportunity to be an All-Star.