MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: June 24, 2026, 2:31 PM ET

National League Injury Woes Mount

The New York Mets are grappling with significant roster issues, as manager Carlos Mendoza announced that right-hander Kodai Senga has been demoted to the bullpen. This move comes amid a losing streak and uncertainty surrounding left fielder Juan Soto, who exited Tuesday's game with back tightness after just four innings against the Rockies. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns stated that the Aug. 3 trade deadline will serve as the deciding factor on whether the team pushes for the playoffs or pivots to a rebuilding phase for 2027. Adding to the National League's injury concerns, Chicago Cubs pitcher Edward Cabrera was carted off the field with a leg injury sustained while stretching for a throw at first base. The Cubs also experienced a two-day rainout in New York, a situation manager Craig Counsell found perplexing.

American League's Injury Bug and Roster Moves

The Oakland Athletics saw infielder Zack Gelof leave Tuesday's contest in the second inning following a gruesome injury where Giants' Matt Chapman stepped on his hand during an awkward tag play. Meanwhile, the Kansas City Royals are likely to lose pitcher Cole Ragans for the season, as he is expected to undergo surgery for an elbow impingement that has sidelined him since early May. In Philadelphia, home run leader Kyle Schwarber was scratched from Tuesday night's game with lower back tightness, and Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams was a late scratch due to similar left side tightness. The Minnesota Twins, however, plan to hold onto their star power, with General Manager stating there are "no plans" to trade veteran outfielder Byron Buxton. The Cincinnati Reds bolstered their lineup by activating Elly De La Cruz from the injured list after a three-week absence.

Player Performances and League Trends

A notable trend emerging this season is the success of left-handed hitters, with new automated ball-strike challenge systems potentially playing a role in their increased production in 2026. Tristan H. Cockcroft has identified a quartet of "criminally underrated" players who should be on more rosters, suggesting a potential shift in player valuation. On a peculiar note, Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed his displeasure with second baseman Jazz Chisholm's decision to play while eating a lollipop during Monday night's game, a move that clearly did not sit well with his manager. The San Francisco Giants saw first baseman Rafael Devers apologize for his actions at first base in a recent game, calling the situation a "misunderstanding" that he felt was being blown out of proportion.

Minor League Updates and Roster Adjustments

In the minor leagues, the Pittsburgh Pirates announced that rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin has begun a rehab assignment with Double-A Altoona. On the roster front, the Milwaukee Brewers released Luis Rengifo, who had opened the season as their primary third baseman, signaling a change in their infield plans.