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Ben Sheets, Braves: The one-time All-Star is culminating his long road back from multiple elbow surgeries by starting Sunday against the Mets. Sheets hasn't pitched a full season in four years.

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Joe Maddon, Rays: He's a great manager, but not such a good travel agent. Maddon booked his own flight home for the All-Star break — and bought a return ticket to Tampa for next week. Maddon saved the day by finding a new flight on his iPad while at LAX.

Ex-Mariner of the week

Rafael Soriano, Yankees: Soriano has proved to be an able replacement for Mariano Rivera at closer, converting 20 of 21 save opportunities.

Quote

"When I do, it's usually 'Swamp People' or things like that." — Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster, explaining he doesn't follow trade rumors in the newspapers or watch much TV.