MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: July 10, 2026, 8:34 AM ET

All-Star Game and Home Run Derby News

The 2026 MLB All-Star Game will feature Alan Porter as the umpire crew chief, calling balls and strikes for the midsummer classic in Philadelphia. Bryce Harper, a star for the Phillies, announced he will compete in the Home Run Derby in his team's home ballpark. He'll be joined by Cardinals outfielder Jordan Walker, who also confirmed his participation in the event. Red Sox slugger Willson Contreras saw his suspension reduced from seven games to five, clearing him to play in both the All-Star Game and the Home Run Derby. However, Red Sox pitcher Ranger Suarez will miss the All-Star festivities due to a left groin strain that landed him on the 15-day injured list.

Player Injuries and Returns

Several players are dealing with injuries that will impact their teams. Athletics outfielder Zack Gelof had to leave Thursday night's game against the Tigers after appearing to injure his right knee on a sliding catch. Mets outfielder Mark Vientos will head to the injured list after fracturing his right hand on Thursday when he was hit by a pitch. The Brewers announced that Brandon Woodruff has a new injury to his shoulder, with an MRI revealing damage to his anterior capsule, and the team is seeking a second opinion. Yankees slugger Aaron Judge is scheduled to have his rib imaged during the All-Star break, with the team hopeful for positive results regarding his healing. On a positive note, Munetaka Murakami is expected to return to the White Sox lineup on Friday after a stint on the injured list with a strained right hamstring.

Player Milestones and Future Plans

Eduardo Valencia made a memorable MLB debut for the Tigers on Thursday, hitting a home run in his first plate appearance. He later expressed emotion while thanking his family and his earthquake-affected home country of Venezuela. Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe strongly denied a report claiming he refused to play second base earlier this season, calling the now-retracted story "B.S." and expressing surprise. In a significant announcement, three-time Cy Young winner Justin Verlander stated that he will retire after the 2026 season, ending his illustrious career as the league's oldest active player at 43.

Team Standings and Trade Speculation

In league-wide power rankings, the Marlins debuted at their highest position of 2026, while the Padres' struggles continue. The upcoming MLB draft is also on the horizon, with ESPN releasing its final rankings for the top 250 prospects. Speculation about potential trade deadline moves is also circulating, with analyses suggesting the perfect additions for every World Series hopeful, including hypothetical scenarios involving pitchers like Tairk Skubal. Interim Phillies manager Don Mattingly indicated his interest in managing the team full-time, given their strong playoff contention heading into the All-Star break.

Notable Game Performances

Blue Jays pitcher Dylan Cease was on the verge of a no-hitter against the Giants on Wednesday, taking it into the ninth inning before Heliot Ramos broke it up with a single.