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Woods Richardson did not factor into the decision Thursday, allowing two runs on four hits and two walks in six innings against the Rays. He struck out six.

Advice: Woods Richardson allowed single runs in the second and third, keeping the Rays at bay as he completed six innings for his fourth quality start of the season. It was also the ninth time in 12 starts that Woods Richardson left with a no-decision. It was the third time in four outings that Woods Richardson struck out six batters, including a couple of big strikeouts to end the fourth and fifth innings, each coming with runners in scoring position to keep the game tied. Woods Richardson has been solid throughout his first full season in the majors, tallying a 3.26 ERA and 1.14 WHIP through 12 starts with 52 strikeouts over 60.2 innings. His next start is scheduled to take place next week when the Twins travel to Arizona to take on the Diamondbacks. Rotowire.com 15 minutes ago

Rays RHP prospect Shane Baz struck out six over three scorless innings on Thursday for Triple-A Durham.

Advice: Baz averaged 96.5 mph on his four-seam fastball, which generated seven swinging strikes in this one, and needed just 70 pitches to navigate three frames. He gave up four hits and also issued three walks. The 25-year-old top pitching prospect has recorded 24 strikeouts over his last three starts since June 8. It’s time. Rotoworld 25 minutes ago

Guardians 1B/OF prospect Jhonkensy Noel went 2-for-5 with a pair of RBI on Thursday for Triple-A Columbus.

Advice: Noel’s stock slipped a bit last year as he struggled in the upper minors, but he’s really turned things around this year, cutting back on the strikeouts and still hitting for power. The 22-year-old slugger has 17 round-trippers in 62 games so far this season at Triple-A Columbus. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see him get a shot in Cleveland at some point later this year. Rotoworld 36 minutes ago

Littell did not factor into the decision Thursday, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks over five innings against the Twins. He struck out five.

Advice: Thursday represented a return to form for Littell, who held the Twins to single runs in each of the second and third innings prior to leaving after five innings having tossed 95 pitches. Littell had posted a 7.71 ERA and 2.07 WHIP with four homers allowed across three starts and 14 innings during the month of June, including allowing a season-worst six earned runs in just two innings during his previous start. Although he was touched up for a homer for the seventh-consecutive outing, it was also the first time in five starts he didn't allow at least three earned runs. He'll continue to work on righting the ship during his next start, scheduled to come at home next week when the Mariners make their way to the Trop. Rotowire.com 41 minutes ago