MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 2:31 AM ET

Injury Bug Bites Multiple Teams as Trade Deadline Looms

The Philadelphia Phillies are struggling and need reinforcements as the August 3rd trade deadline approaches, according to Bryce Harper, following a 3-8 stretch since the All-Star break. The Minnesota Twins lost outfielder Byron Buxton to a hip injury that he reaggravated during Tuesday's victory over the Royals. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Toronto Blue Jays with right hamstring tightness. San Francisco Giants infielder Casey Schmitt after an MRI revealed a torn meniscus in his left knee, placing him on the injured list. Red Sox infielder Curtis Mead during his debut after being hit by a pitch, and the team is still evaluating the injury. Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Jake Bauers is out with a broken right big toe, and Cubs veteran pitcher Jameson Taillon was designated for assignment after struggling on the mound. Yankees All-Star outfielder Cody Bellinger will miss four to six weeks with a Grade 2 left hamstring strain. Athletics catcher Shea Langeliers and pitcher Mark Leiter Jr. are set for season-ending surgeries.

Pitching Woes and Player Updates Amidst Trade Speculation

Shohei Ohtani's return to the mound for the Dodgers remains uncertain as the team deals with other injuries. Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Shane Bieber had a rough outing Tuesday night against the Nationals, issuing six walks in the first inning before departing. The Mariners activated outfielder Rob Refsnyder from the injured list and designated pitcher Nick Kennedy for assignment. The Marlins with a walk-off win against the Phillies. Pirates rookie slugger Esmerlyn Valdez in the hand but returned to the lineup Tuesday. Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber is expected to miss Tuesday's game due to illness. The rise in hit batters this season is attributed to increased pitch velocity, weaker control, and a new "just wear it" philosophy among hitters. As the trade deadline nears, speculation continues, with potential blockbuster deals involving players like Shane Bieber and Jack Leiter being discussed. Tigers manager A.J. Hinch confirmed that ace Tarik Skubal is scheduled to start Wednesday, amid trade rumors. National League contenders like the Brewers and Braves.

Ohtani Interpreter Case and Fantasy Baseball Notes

New audio on the Shohei Ohtani interpreter case, suggesting his former interpreter initially claimed Ohtani would cover his gambling debts before retracting the statement. The unraveling of Ohtani's relationship with his interpreter amid a sports betting scheme is detailed in a new podcast titled "The Betrayal of Shohei Ohtani." Fantasy baseball can track the return of closers like Edwin Diaz. Additionally, top free agents to consider adding from the waiver wire include Boston's hot bats.