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21 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: July 23, 2026, 8:32 AM ET

AL Contenders Shake Up Rankings, Boston's Turnaround Under Scrutiny

MLB Power Rankings following the All-Star break, with one team's impressive winning streak coming to an end. The approaching August 3 trade deadline has teams evaluating their rosters, with contenders looking to make a splash as the clock ticks down. Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox are facing questions about whether their recent turnaround is sustainable, and what their focus should be for the remainder of the season as playoff hopes remain alive.

Injury Bug Continues to Bite Across the League

The injury bug continues to affect teams across Major League Baseball. Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. has landed on the injured list for the first time in his career due to lower back tightness. The Athletics have placed pitcher J.T. Ginn on the 15-day IL with a blister on his pitching hand and rookie infielder Joshua Kuroda-Grauer on the 10-day IL following emergency surgery for a ruptured testicle. In Detroit, right-hander Jack Flaherty has also hit the injured list with right flexor inflammation. Catcher Kyle Teel of the White Sox with a high ankle sprain, while Rangers third baseman Josh Jung exited early with left calf tightness and is being monitored. Cubs reliever Trent Thornton, however, is day-to-day with a bruised heel, avoiding a fracture with the help of his cleats.

Notable Player Milestones and Injury Returns

Despite the rash of injuries, some players are achieving milestones and returning to action. Salvador Perez with his 317th career homer. Guardians third baseman José Ramírez was activated from the injured list Wednesday, returning after a five-week absence for left hand surgery. Brewers pitcher Jacob Misiorowski is after a layoff, having thrown only four innings in his recent return.

Trade Deadline Buzz and Prospect Rankings

As the August 3 trade deadline looms, speculation is mounting about which contenders will. Updated rankings of the top 100 trade deadline candidates are available, with new names emerging near the top. In the minors, Kiley McDaniel has released, detailing who is rising and falling in farm systems after the MLB draft. Fantasy managers are also with dynasty rankings for the top 300 players in 2030 and beyond and a look at the hottest free agents available on the waiver wire this week.

MLBPA Responds to Proposed Draft Changes, Pitch Clock Violation Cited

The Major League Baseball Players Association has in response to a proposal from MLB to cut the draft from 20 to 12 rounds, reduce amateur signing bonuses by over $150 million, and prevent high schoolers from entering the draft. In a separate incident, Yankees shortstop José Caballero was charged with a pitch clock violation that led to a strikeout and the ejection of hitting coach James Rowson. The league continues to address issues surrounding the Collective Bargaining Agreement, with ongoing negotiations on salary caps and other key aspects of the deal. Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto took responsibility for a baserunning mistake that in a close loss.