MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: September 5, 2026, 6:31 AM ET

Dodgers' Ohtani Concerns

Shohei Ohtani was held out of the starting lineup Friday for a second straight game due to biceps and neck issues, though the Dodgers remain "hopeful" he will avoid the injured list. The bigger question: whether he pitches in October — Ohtani hasn't been healthy enough to throw in two months, and risking his bat for postseason mound value is the central dilemma facing Los Angeles.

Injury Report

Yankees outfielder Trent Grisham exited Friday night's game against San Diego with right hamstring discomfort. Blue Jays starter Jameson Taillon lasted just two innings against Kansas City before leaving with right elbow discomfort, a significant blow to Toronto's rotation as they chase a wild-card spot.

Benches Clear

The Orioles and Red Sox cleared benches in the eighth inning after Baltimore's Blaze Alexander hard-slid into second base, riling Boston. No punches were thrown, but the late-game tension flared during a key American League matchup.

Fallen Stars of 2026

A deeper look at the fallen stars of 2026 shows how a mix of injuries, poor play, and bad luck has altered divisional races — an impact extending far beyond a single lineup-card absence. These declines, per analysis, have shifted championship standings substantially.

Playoff Picture & Spring Schedule

The MLB playoff tracker lays out clinching scenarios, current matchups, and the full postseason bracket as September races tighten.

Meanwhile, baseball set spring training to begin Feb. 19 — but that date comes with a major caveat: it is contingent on labor peace as CBA tensions loom over the sport.