MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: June 24, 2026, 8:31 AM ET

MLB Player Injuries & Status Updates

A rash of injuries and health concerns continued to plague Major League Baseball clubs Tuesday, with several key players sidelined. Athletics infielder Zack Gelof exited Tuesday's game after his hand was severely spiked by a cleat during a rundown. Cubs pitcher Edward Cabrera was carted off the field with a leg injury sustained while stretching for a throw at first base. The Mets' woes deepened as slugger Juan Soto departed after four innings with back tightness, and home run leader Kyle Schwarber was scratched by the Phillies also due to back tightness. Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams was a late scratch with left side tightness, while Royals pitcher Cole Ragans is expected to undergo surgery for an elbow impingement that has kept him out since May.

Team Roster Moves & Front Office Statements

In roster news, the Cincinnati Reds activated Elly De La Cruz from the injured list after a three-week absence, providing a significant boost to their lineup. The Milwaukee Brewers, however, released former starting third baseman Luis Rengifo, who had begun the season as their primary option at the hot corner. Meanwhile, Minnesota Twins General Manager revealed the club has no immediate plans to trade veteran All-Star outfielder Byron Buxton, indicating his importance to the team's future. Pirates rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin began a rehab assignment at Double-A Altoona, signaling a potential return for the highly-touted prospect.

Managerial Frustrations & Player Apologies

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed his bewilderment at the team's second consecutive rainout in New York, questioning the decision to postpone the game. On a more personal note, Giants first baseman Rafael Devers issued an apology to manager Tony Vitello, chalking up a contentious ninth-inning play to a "misunderstanding." Yankees manager Aaron Boone was reportedly displeased with second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr.'s decision to play while eating a lollipop during a recent game, a gesture he deemed unusual.

League Trends & Player Performance

The increasing success of left-handed hitters in Major League Baseball this season may be partially attributed to the league's new automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system, according to analyst Tim Olney. Olney suggests that the ABS system's perceived consistency might be benefiting lefties who are known to be more effective against certain pitch types. Additionally, independent analysis has identified a quartet of criminally underrated players who warrant more attention and should be considered for roster additions across the league.

Fantasy Baseball & Mid-Season Accolades

As the MLB season progresses, fantasy baseball managers are re-evaluating their rosters, with particular attention paid to relief pitchers. A review of first-half performance has identified significant relief pitcher MVPs, busts, and potential waiver wire targets for fantasy owners. Beyond standard performance metrics, there are also unexpected awards being handed out, recognizing both the most impressive and the most embarrassing moments of the season thus far according to Jeff Passan. Meanwhile, Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns views the Aug. 3 trade deadline as the definitive point to