Aaron Judge is officially bound for the 2026 World Baseball Classic — and he’ll be doing so as the newly appointed captain of Team USA. In this episode of Tablesetters, Devin and Steve reflect on the significance of Judge’s commitment, the symbolism of Mike Trout’s endorsement, and what this leadership role says about Judge’s evolving legacy in the game.

The conversation then turns to a week filled with standout performances and sobering setbacks. The Cubs suffer a major blow as Justin Steele is ruled out for the season with a flexor tendon injury, raising real questions about how Chicago can sustain its strong start without its ace. Meanwhile, Garrett Crochet nearly no-hits his former team, striking out 11 White Sox over 7 1/3 innings — continuing a dazzling breakout that’s reshaping expectations in Boston.

Jung Hoo Lee continues to command attention with a breakout series in the Bronx, helping the Giants win the series at Yankee Stadium. Michael King tosses his first career complete-game shutout as the Padres continue their dominant stretch at home, while Hunter Greene extends his scoreless innings streak and is suddenly making a real case as one of the top arms in the league.

The Dodgers drop their third consecutive series, while Pete Crow-Armstrong shines for the Cubs, flashing star potential and drawing early contract extension buzz. Spencer Strider is now set to return for his first start in over a year, after undergoing internal brace surgery on his UCL, and with the Prospect Promotion Incentive (PPI) deadline officially passed, we ask: why are so many top young players still stuck in the minors?

We wrap with our Red Hot / Ice Cold picks, and share what we’re watching as the week unfolds in Coming Around 3rd.

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