MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: June 20, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Injury Updates and Roster Moves

The Dodgers delayed the return of catcher Will Smith from a neck injury, ruling him out for the weekend and potentially keeping him off the team's upcoming road trip starting Monday. In Chicago, the bullpen faces uncertainty as Daniel Palencia has been diagnosed with a mild flexor strain in his right arm, according to manager Craig Counsell. Arizona also dealt with early-game pitching issues Friday as Michael Soroka exited after one inning against Minnesota due to posterior left hip discomfort, while the Rangers scratched Nathan Eovaldi from his start against the Padres because of soreness in his left knee.

Pitching Performances and League Buzz

Beyond the injury reports, individual dominance on the mound is catching attention across professional sports circles. Cam Schlittler struck out 13 batters in a commanding performance Friday night, drawing high-profile praise from New York Knicks guard Josh Hart, who labeled the right-hander as the current top pitcher in the American League. While the focus remains on the diamond, the broader sports ecosystem is evaluating the ethics of box breaking as the collectibles industry faces increased scrutiny regarding whether the practice constitutes gambling or a legitimate hobby. These developments highlight the ongoing volatility in both player health and the business side of sports fandom.