MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: April 5, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

MLB Injury Woes Mount Across Leagues

A rash of mid-game exits and roster moves characterized the Saturday slate, with several key contenders seeing vital players sidelined by physical issues. Dodgers superstar Mookie Betts was forced out of the contest in Washington after only the top of the first inning due to right lower back pain, creating immediate concern for Los Angeles's offense. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Brewers experienced dual exits: right fielder Sal Frelick departed during the fourth inning of his game against the Royals with left side tightness, and the New York Mets confirmed that right fielder Juan Soto underwent an MRI revealing a strained right calf. These injuries compound existing setbacks, as Detroit Tigers veteran Justin Verlander was placed on the 15-day injured list with hip inflammation, sidelining his highly anticipated season home debut.

On-Field Incidents and Minor League Security

The physical toll extended beyond position players, as an umpire left the Marlins-Yankees contest in the fourth inning after taking a foul ball directly off his mask, necessitating an early exit for plate official Ron Kulpa. Separately, the Milwaukee organization navigated an unusual off-field mandate after manager Pat Murphy’s pre-game ritual of keeping "pocket pancakes" was reportedly banned by a local reporter, leading the team to adopt a "rally tortoise" mascot instead to inspire good fortune. In roster development news, Brewers prospect Cooper Pratt stated that securing a long-term contract while still in the minor leagues should alleviate pressure as he strives for the major leagues, emphasizing the financial security provided by the deal.