MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: June 23, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

MLB News & Notes

Several teams are grappling with player availability issues as the season progresses. The Philadelphia Phillies scratched home run leader Kyle Schwarber from Tuesday's lineup due to lower back tightness. Similarly, Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams was a late scratch with left side tightness, impacting both clubs' offensive capabilities. In other injury news, Kansas City Royals pitcher Cole Ragans is expected to undergo elbow surgery to address an impingement that has kept him sidelined since early May, a significant blow to their rotation. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Reds activated Elly De La Cruz from the injured list ahead of Tuesday's game, providing a boost to their lineup after he missed over three weeks.

The New York Mets are evaluating their postseason aspirations, with president of baseball operations David Stearns indicating that the August 3 trade deadline will be a critical juncture for the franchise. Stearns stated that this date will serve as the "cut off" to determine whether the team will pursue a playoff push or pivot its strategy towards the 2027 season. In roster moves, the Milwaukee Brewers released veteran third baseman Luis Rengifo, who had begun the season as their primary option at the hot corner. On a positive note for the Pirates, rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin began a rehab assignment with Double-A Altoona, signaling a potential return for the highly touted prospect.

Pitcher Brandon Woodruff made a notable return to the mound for the Milwaukee Brewers, recording his 900th career strikeout and flirting with perfection through six innings in his first start since April 30. This performance offered a glimpse of his ace potential after an extended absence. Elsewhere in the league, Dodgers outfielder Kyle Tucker exited a game with low back spasms on Monday, raising concerns about his availability. In a peculiar incident, Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed disapproval of second baseman Jazz Chisholm's decision to play while eating a lollipop during Monday night's game, highlighting a less-than-ideal display of focus.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred addressed the controversy surrounding the San Francisco Giants' rainbow-themed caps, stating in a letter to Senator Josh Hawley that the team's guidance to players on opting out of wearing the caps was "not clear." This statement comes amidst ongoing discussions about player inclusivity and team uniform policies. In related news, while not directly tied to team performance, ESPN's Jeff Passan handed out unconventional awards for the season's most surprising and embarrassing moments, offering a unique perspective on the league's narrative. Fantasy baseball managers are also receiving guidance on first-half relief pitcher performance, with insights into potential waiver wire targets and players to drop based on performance and outlook.