MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

AL East Shakeup & Injury Woes

The New York Yankees to the Dodgers on Friday, with manager Aaron Boone regretting his decision to keep starter Gerrit Cole in the game during the 2-1 defeat. Adding to the Yankees' woes, star outfielder Aaron Judge is still on the mend from a broken rib and has not been cleared for workouts. Meanwhile, the Mets kicked off their post-All-Star break schedule with a victory over the Phillies, powered by two home runs from Francisco Alvarez and another from Brett Baty in a 4-1 win.

National League Power Plays & Prospect News

In Arizona, the Diamondbacks to the Cardinals, with Ketel Marte controversially failing to challenge a called third strike on a pitch that replays indicated was outside the zone. The Pirates from the Nationals in a move involving cash or a player to be named later. In a significant long-term deal, All-Star right-hander Chase Burns and the Reds, with Burns currently boasting an 11-1 record and a 2.54 ERA this season.

Injury Bug Bites & Roster Moves

The Milwaukee Brewers will utilize Lance McCullers Jr. out of the bullpen as they navigate injuries to key members of their pitching staff. The Athletics, however, will be without designated hitter Brent Rooker for the remainder of the season after he underwent season-ending left knee surgery. In Seattle, general manager Justin Hollander from a concussion, hoping the center fielder can be back in the lineup on Saturday. The Phillies' bullpen also took a hit, as veteran reliever Brad Keller was diagnosed with a torn right UCL, likely ending his 2026 season.

Other MLB Notes

Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers' dynamic two-way star, not a fluid drain, according to manager Dave Roberts, and remained in the lineup. A game between the Pirates and Guardians in Cleveland was postponed due to air quality concerns stemming from wildfire smoke. Major League Baseball is targeting March 24 for Opening Day, pending any labor disputes. ESPN insiders are also buzzing about potential trade deadline moves, with speculation on which teams might go all-in and which stars could be dealt.