MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: July 8, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

MLB Standouts and Slumps

The All-Star Game selections continued to spark debate, with Zack Wheeler expressing his frustration after being overlooked for a roster spot. Wheeler, however, responded on the mound, tying a career high with 14 strikeouts in his latest outing. Meanwhile, the list of All-Star replacements was unveiled, notably including Willson Contreras and Nick Ashcraft leading the additions, though many deserving stars will be watching from home according to an analysis of the rosters and takeaways. The Yankees, despite a 6-4 loss to the Rays, matched an American League record by striking out 17 times for the second consecutive game, highlighting a broader trend of offensive struggles for some clubs.

Team Performances and Player Milestones

As the season reaches its midpoint, teams are being graded on their first-half performances, with some clubs exceeding expectations while others falter receiving D's and F's. Identifying the top performers, an MVP has been named for each of the 30 MLB teams, reflecting individual brilliance amidst team efforts across the league. In a remarkable offensive display, Ryan O'Hearn set a Pirates club record by driving in 10 runs on three home runs in a convincing victory. On the other end of the offensive spectrum, the Yankees' Ben Rice, who leads the team with 26 home runs, has been selected to participate in the Home Run Derby in Philadelphia on July 13 swinging for the fences.

Injuries and Roster Moves

Injuries continue to impact team rosters, with Byron Buxton being placed on the 10-day injured list due to a lingering hip issue that has hampered him for much of the season for the Twins. The Pittsburgh Pirates also placed rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin on the injured list with a finger injury this week. In more positive news on the roster front, Jorge Polanco has returned to the New York Mets' lineup after a nearly three-month absence due to wrist and Achilles injuries making his return. Reliever Evan Phillips is also back on the field for the Los Angeles Dodgers, reinstated from the injured list after a 13-month layoff following Tommy John surgery recovering from surgery. The Houston Astros, however, sent right-hander Mike Burrows to Triple-A Sugar Land after a difficult start to his recent appearances optioned to Triple-A.

Draft Prospects and Future Outlook

With the MLB draft on the horizon, prospect rankings are being finalized, with a comprehensive list of the top 250 players available for the draft. Kiley McDaniel offers insights into team draft boards and the top prospects, addressing key questions such as who the White Sox might select with the No. 1 overall pick all 30 teams. Major leaguers also shared their memories of draft day, recalling moments from first-round selections to players chosen in rounds that no longer exist recounting their experiences.

League News and Developments

The Women's Professional Baseball League has unveiled the nicknames and logos for its four inaugural teams, with each name drawing inspiration from pioneering women in sports for its first season. In a disciplinary matter, pitcher Cade Cavalli's suspension for his role in a brawl in Boston has been reduced on appeal, as announced by Major League Baseball suspension reduced. The Detroit Tigers have seen third base coach Joey Cora depart the club during his third season, citing personal reasons leaving the Tigers.

Second-Half Projections and Fantasy Baseball

As teams look towards the second half of the season, speculation is mounting about potential player moves. An analysis of upcoming schedules suggests which players might be valuable additions for fantasy managers and which ones to avoid second-half moves. Fantasy baseball managers are also being advised on closer stock, with recommendations on which relief pitchers to add or drop before the trade deadline closer stock watch.

Player Performances and Records

Tyler Tolbert of the Kansas City Royals tied a major league record with hits in 12 consecutive plate appearances, achieving the mark during a high-scoring victory over the Mets tying MLB record. The Los Angeles Dodgers reached their 60th win of the season in their first extra-innings game, securing the victory on a walk-off single in the 11th inning Dodgers reach 60 wins. In a surprising turn, ace Cristopher Sanchez of the Philadelphia Phillies allowed a career-worst nine earned runs in just 3 1/3 innings during a significant loss to Kansas