MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: June 24, 2026, 5:31 AM ET

MLB Injury Report: Ailing Stars and Roster Moves

A wave of injuries continued to impact Major League Baseball teams Tuesday, with several key players exiting games or being scratched from lineups. Athletics infielder Zack Gelof suffered a hand injury in the second inning after being spiked by Matt Chapman during an awkward tag play. The Cubs also saw pitcher Edward Cabrera carted off the field with a left leg injury while stretching for a throw. In New York, Mets star Juan Soto departed after four innings against the Rockies due to back tightness, adding to the team's already difficult season. Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber was also scratched from the lineup with lower back tightness before their game against the Nationals, and Washington's shortstop CJ Abrams was a late scratch with similar left side tightness reported by the team.

The injury bug also hit the Kansas City Royals, with left elbow impingement expected to sideline pitcher Cole Ragans, who is likely to undergo surgery. Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed frustration with a second consecutive rainout in New York, impacting his team's rhythm. In a move signaling a return, the Reds activated Elly De La Cruz after a three-week IL stint. Pirates rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin also began his rehab assignment with Double-A Altoona.

Team Standings and Offseason Outlooks

While the present is marred by injuries, some teams are with a clearer picture of their roster. Minnesota Twins General Manager revealed the club has "no plans to deal" their veteran All-Star outfielder Byron Buxton, indicating a commitment to keeping their core intact. Conversely, Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns views the Aug. 3 trade deadline as a critical juncture, stating it will be the "cut off point" to determine whether the team pushes for the playoffs or pivots to a rebuild focused on 2027. In roster subtractions, the Milwaukee Brewers released former starting third baseman Luis Rengifo.

Player Conduct and League Recognition

Beyond injuries and roster decisions, player behavior and league recognition made headlines. Giants first baseman Rafael Devers apologized to manager Tony Vitello following an incident at first base on Sunday, attributing the situation to a "misunderstanding." Yankees manager Aaron Boone was reportedly displeased with second baseman Jazz Chisholm's decision to play while eating a lollipop during a game. ESPN's Jeff Passan also distributed his unexpected MLB awards for the season's most remarkable and embarrassing moments. Fantasy baseball managers received analysis on first-half relief pitcher MVPs and potential waiver wire targets in a recent breakdown.