MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

National League Race Heats Up

The Los Angeles Dodgers secured their 60th victory of the season in an extra-innings thriller, defeating the San Diego Padres 5-4 on a Dalton Rushing single in the 11th inning. This marked their first extra-innings contest of the year. Reliever Evan Phillips also returned to the Dodgers' bullpen on Monday, reinstated from the injured list 13 months after undergoing Tommy John surgery Phillips returns Tommy John. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Phillies suffered a significant setback as ace Cristopher Sanchez surrendered a career-worst nine earned runs in just 3 1/3 innings, contributing to a lopsided 15-1 loss against the Kansas City Royals Sanchez allows career-worst 9.

American League Standings and Performances

The New York Yankees bounced back from a recent loss with a 5-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays, fueled by an eight-inning performance from Cam Schlittler, his second such outing this season Schlittler bounces back. In Arizona, veteran outfielder Max Kepler hit his first home run since the conclusion of his 80-game suspension, leading the Diamondbacks to an 8-0 shutout of the San Diego Padres Kepler hits first homer. The Atlanta Braves placed left-hander Martín Pérez on the 15-day injured list with a left forearm contusion, adding another injury to their pitching staff Pérez injury list.

Draft Prospects and Fantasy Baseball

As draft week approaches, speculation mounts regarding the top picks in the 2026 MLB draft, with the Chicago White Sox widely expected to hold the first selection 2026 draft guide. However, a significant concern has emerged for one of the top pitching prospects, Brody Bumila, who shared MRI results revealing ulnar collateral ligament damage in his left elbow Draft prospect Bumila. Fantasy managers are eyeing waiver wire additions as the All-Star break looms, with pitching talent dominating the available free agents Free agents: Pitching takes.

Midseason Reviews and Awards Watch

With the All-Star break on the horizon, evaluations of every club's performance are underway, assessing both surprise successes and early-season disappointments Club performances reviewed. Simultaneously, the race for major individual awards is heating up, with leading candidates for MVP and Cy Young honors beginning to emerge Awards Watch: MVP, Cy.

Trade Deadline Buzz

The trade deadline is generating considerable discussion, with a fresh batch of potential impact players now available. Names like Skubal are being linked to various clubs, and a new star closer has entered the market, making them prime targets for teams looking to bolster their rosters Top trade deadline candidates ranked.

Player Experiences and Reflections

Beyond the immediate game action, players are reflecting on their journeys, with many recalling the pivotal moments