MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: August 6, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

MVP Race Heats Up Amidst Stellar Performances

Pete Crow-Armstrong solidified his case for NL MVP with a two-home run performance in a victory over the Dodgers, a game that also featured Shohei Ohtani hitting two home runs himself. The Braves' starting pitching has been a point of discussion after their quiet trade deadline, but Bryce Elder and Grant Holmes have delivered strong outings, suggesting the team may not need additional arms. Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta reportedly facilitated a meeting between Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor in June, aiming to help the two stars resolve their on-field disconnect.

Pitching Notes and Roster Moves

Sonny Gray earned his American League-leading 14th win, a career-high, by striking out eight over six innings of three-hit ball as the Red Sox defeated the White Sox 4-0. Rookie Jefry of the Mets celebrated his first career strikeout with an energetic and viral celebration on the mound. Garrett Crochet the Red Sox's ace sidelined since late April, has indicated his openness to a relief role should he recover in time for the postseason push.

Trade Deadline Fallout and Team Standings

MLB trade deadline saw significant activity across the league, prompting discussions about which teams made impactful moves and how these acquisitions have affected club rankings. Some clubs made aggressive moves to bolster their rosters for a postseason surge, while others, like the Yankees, faced fan scrutiny for a perceived lack of significant deadline acquisitions. As the fantasy trade deadline approaches, teams like the Atlanta Braves are being highlighted for their strong recent play and potential late-season heroes.

Injury Updates and Player Health

Twins ace Joe Ryan is returning to Minnesota for evaluation after experiencing difficulties in a recent loss to the Kansas City Royals. Reds right-hander Hunter Greene has been placed on the 15-day injured list for the second time this season due to right elbow soreness, having only made five starts since his previous return. Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing is dealing with a slight tear in the UCL of his right elbow, according to follow-up tests. Padres right-handed Nick Pivetta exited his rehab outing early with minor elbow tightness, as reported by manager Craig Stammen.

Player Debuts and Transitions

Kevin Gausman expressed his happiness to be joining the Chicago Cubs and is slated to make his debut on Friday. George Lombard Jr. became the third-youngest player in Yankees history to homer in his debut game, an achievement shared with his younger brother who also homered in his professional debut on the same night. Two-time Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal made his Los Angeles debut, showing promising stuff despite limited run support from the Dodgers in a game that saw him throw 51 strikes on 85 pitches. Recently acquired catcher Adley Rutschman is focused on integrating into a red-hot Red Sox team that has been playing well over the past month.

Roster Changes and Player Releases

The Pirates have released veteran designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, who was batting .203 with eight home runs on the season. The Guardians have called up their top prospect, infielder Angel Genao, who boasts a .309 batting average in Triple-A Columbus, and have designated Owen Miller for assignment. Mariners reliever Gabe Speier was ejected in the eighth inning after hitting Gleyber Torres with a pitch, an incident that led to benches clearing.