MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 11:31 PM ET

Baseball Buzz and Injury Updates

The MLB season is heating up with significant player news and injury concerns emerging. In a notable development for the Cincinnati Reds, All-Star right-hander Chase Burns with the club. Burns has been stellar this season, boasting an 11-1 record and a 2.54 ERA. Meanwhile, the Oakland Athletics are facing a setback as designated hitter and outfielder Brent Rooker on his left knee. On the injury front for the Seattle Mariners, GM Justin Hollander expressed optimism that center fielder Julio Rodriguez could return from a concussion as early as Saturday. For the Milwaukee Brewers, Lance McCullers Jr., acquired via trade as the team navigates through existing injuries.

Player Health and Roster Moves

Several prominent players are dealing with ongoing health issues that are impacting their availability. New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge remains on the mend from a broken rib and has not yet been cleared for baseball activities. Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani received a lubricant injection in his left knee, not a drainage, according to manager Dave Roberts, and was expected to be in the lineup on Friday. The Philadelphia Phillies have suffered a blow as veteran reliever Brad Keller was diagnosed with a torn UCL in his right elbow, likely ending his season. The Pittsburgh Pirates made a roster move, acquiring Robert Hassell III from the Washington Nationals in exchange for cash or a player to be named later in a trade.

Schedule Changes and Offseason Outlook

The baseball schedule saw a disruption as the game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cleveland Guardians in Cleveland was postponed due to air quality concerns stemming from wildfire smoke. Major League Baseball is reportedly planning for an early Opening Day on March 24 next year, though this is. The looming possibility of a labor dispute was a topic of discussion even during All-Star week, with the prospect of a work stoppage casting a shadow over the festivities.

Fantasy and Betting Insights

As the second half of the MLB season gets underway, fantasy managers are looking for projections, with Eric Karabell examining potential future standouts like Walker and Griffin for rookie honors. On the betting front, the second half has seen shifts in market sentiment, with bettors showing increased interest in the White Sox while moving away from the Mets according to bookmakers. Friday's betting tips highlighted specific player props, with Rafael Devers noted as a player to watch for prop bets.