MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: June 24, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

MLB INJURY BUG CONTINUES TO BITE

The injury bug continued its sweep across Major League Baseball Tuesday, with several prominent players forced from games or scratched. Athletics infielder Zack Gelof exited with a hand injury after being spiked by the Giants' Matt Chapman during an awkward tag play. In New York, Cubs pitcher Edward Cabrera was carted off the field with a leg injury while stretching for a throw at first base. Mets star Juan Soto departed after four innings against the Rockies with back tightness, while Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber was a late scratch due to similar issues. Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams also pulled up with left side tightness, becoming another name on a growing IL list.

PITCHING INJURIES MOUNT, SURGERY LOOMS

The strain on pitching staffs intensified as Cole Ragans, who has been sidelined since early May, is likely to undergo surgery for an elbow impingement. The Kansas City Royals manager confirmed the impending procedure on Tuesday. Meanwhile, prospect Konnor Griffin, a highly touted shortstop, began his rehab assignment with Double-A Altoona, signaling a potential return for the Pirates later in the season.

UNDERRATED STARS AND TEAM DECISIONS

As teams evaluate their rosters, some players continue to perform above expectations without widespread recognition. Tristan H. Cockcroft identified a quartet of criminally underrated players who warrant more attention and roster consideration. Amidst speculation, Minnesota Twins GM Phil Cousins stated the team has "no plans" to trade veteran All-Star outfielder Byron Buxton, shutting down trade rumors. In a different vein, the Brewers opted to release Luis Rengifo, who had opened the season as their primary third baseman, parting ways with the veteran.

METS NAVIGATE TRADE DEADLINE QUESTIONS

The New York Mets are facing a critical juncture as the August 3 trade deadline approaches. President of Baseball Operations David Stearns indicated that the deadline will serve as the "cut off" point for the team to evaluate its contention status before deciding whether to push for the playoffs or pivot towards future seasons, setting a clear timeline. Manager Craig Counsell expressed his perplexity over consecutive rainouts in New York, voicing frustration with the schedule.

PLAYER CONDUCT AND APOLOGIES

Minor disciplinary issues also surfaced. Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm's choice to play while eating a lollipop during a game drew the ire of manager Aaron Boone. Separately, Giants first baseman Rafael Devers reached out to manager Tony Vitello to apologize for his actions at first base in a recent game, chalking it up to "a misunderstanding" despite the incident being blown out of proportion.

DE LA CRUZ RETURNS, ABS SYSTEM IN FOCUS

The Cincinnati Reds activated infielder Elly De La Cruz from the injured list, boosting their lineup after he missed just over three weeks. On a broader league-wide note, the automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system is being credited with potentially contributing to a surge in left-handed hitters' performance in 2026, driving offensive numbers.