MLB

Colorado Rockies outfielder Michael Cuddyer wasted no time re-acclimating himself to major league pitching, hitting for the cycle on his first day back from the disabled list in the second game of Sunday's doubleheader versus the Cincinnati Reds.

Cuddyer, who missed more than two months of action due to a shoulder injury, registered just a lone single in five at-bats during the first game of Sunday's doubleheader.

As September edges closer, there are still 16 MLB teams within four games of a playoff spot. That means that for more than half of baseball, the future is now. 

From David Price's dominance in Detroit to Andrew McCutchen's imminent return in Pittsburgh, what follows is a look at the most encouraging sign for each team. For the clubs that have already tumbled out of the race—or that were never in it to start—examining the bigger picture is required. 

Milwaukee Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy, who hit his 40th double of the season Sunday, has a chance to become the first catcher in the modern era (since 1900) to lead a league in two-baggers, per ESPN Stats & Info.

Milwaukee Brewers closer Francisco Rodriguez earned his 342nd career save Saturday, moving past Rollie Fingers to take sole possession of 11th place on the all-time saves list, per Mike Vassallo, the Brewers' senior director of media relations.

The stretch run is important for the Los Angeles Dodgers for multiple reasons: They’re preparing for the playoffs, and—with a 3.5 game lead in the NL West as of Aug. 18—the players on the roster are attempting to prove their worth.