As the baseball world gears up for the All-Star break, there are several exciting developments taking place. Here's a roundup of three things to keep an eye on:

1. Blue Jays Open to Trading Kiermaier

The Toronto Blue Jays have found themselves 8.5 games out of a Wild Card spot in the American League, prompting them to consider trading away rental players and pivot towards selling. The latest indication of this shift in strategy came when the Blue Jays placed center fielder Kevin Kiermaier on waivers. With a 48-hour resolution period, a decision regarding Kiermaier's future with the club can be expected today or tomorrow. However, due to his hefty salary of $10.5 million, it is unlikely that any team will claim him. Teams may show interest in Kiermaier's speed and elite defense, but a trade would only be feasible if the Blue Jays absorb a significant portion of his salary.

2. Future Stars to Shine in the Futures Game

As All-Star week festivities kick off, one event to watch is the Futures Game. Scheduled for tomorrow at 3:10 pm CT and to be broadcasted on MLB Network, this game will showcase top prospects from around the league. Among the highlighted players are catcher Samuel Basallo from the Baltimore Orioles, infielder Colson Montgomery from the Chicago White Sox, and outfielder Spencer Jones from the New York Yankees in the American League. The National League will feature talents like Reds righty Rhett Lowder, Padres catcher Ethan Salas, Pirates infielder Termarr Johnson, and Nationals outfielder Dylan Crews. In addition to the game, an exciting Skills Showcase will also take place on Sunday at 9:00 am CT.

3. MLB Draft 2024 Countdown Begins

The MLB draft is gaining prominence during All-Star week, and this year's first round is set to kick off on Sunday at 6:00 pm CT. All eyes will be on the state of Ohio as the Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds hold the first and second overall picks after winning the lottery. Some of the top prospects creating a buzz ahead of the draft include Oregon State second baseman Travis Bazzana, Georgia outfielder Charlie Condon, West Virginia shortstop JJ Wetherholt, Florida two-way star Jac Caglianone, Arkansas lefty Hagen Smith, and Wake Forest righty Chase Burns.

As the baseball world eagerly awaits the All-Star break, the trade rumors surrounding Kevin Kiermaier, the anticipation for the Futures Game, and the upcoming MLB draft are sure to captivate fans and analysts alike. Stay tuned for further updates on these exciting developments in the baseball world.