MLB Baseball 24 Hours

Last updated: August 16, 2026, 12:42 AM ET

Cardinals Rookie Makes History

Cardinals rookie left fielder Joshua Baez etched his name into the MLB record books by becoming the first player ever to hit three home runs in the first three plate appearances of his major league career on Saturday. The historic performance immediately announced Baez as a rising star in St. Louis' lineup, drawing comparisons to baseball legends who made similar splashy debuts. His achievement underscores the Cardinals' continued success in developing young talent into impact players at the highest level.

Yankees Ace Nearing Return

Joshua Baez's record-breaking debut has captured headlines, but Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge is also making significant progress in his recovery. Judge played catch and ran in New York on Friday as he continues working toward a return from a broken right rib. Manager Aaron Boone has remained optimistic about Judge's timeline, though the slugger will need additional game action before rejoining the Yankees' active roster. His rehab session marks another step forward in what has been a frustrating injury layoff for the team's cleanup hitter.

Blue Jays Lose Guerrero Jr.

The Blue Jays have placed first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on the seven-day concussion injured list following his collision with Yankees rookie shortstop George Lombard Jr. during Toronto's 3-1 victory over New York. Guerrero's collision evaluation occurred in the fifth inning when both players converged on third base. The six-time All-Star underwent testing and remains sidelined indefinitely. His absence represents a significant blow to the Blue Jays' offense, which has relied heavily on his production throughout the season.

Brewers Reliever Injured

The Brewers have placed right-hander Abner Uribe on the 15-day injured list due to a forearm flexor strain. Uribe's IL placement affects Milwaukee's bullpen depth heading into the weekend series. The hard-throwing reliever posted a 2.9% walk rate before the injury and had recorded 18 holds in 42 appearances this season. His loss requires the Brewers to shuffle their relief corps, potentially accelerating prospect promotion timelines.

Dodgers Boosted by Ohtani Progress

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence about Shohei Ohtani returning to the mound this season after the two-way star completed a 35-pitch bullpen session. Ohtani's bullpen milestone represents meaningful progress in his recovery from forearm tightness that sidelined him earlier this month. Roberts noted that Ohtani's velocity and command looked sharp during the session, though the Dodgers will likely limit his workload upon return to protect their investment in the $70M annual designated hitter.

Giants to Host 2028 All-Star Game

San Francisco will host the 2028 MLB All-Star Game at Oracle Park, marking the ballpark's return as Midsummer Classic host for the first time since 2007. Giants' All-Star announcement provides the franchise with a signature event during baseball's busy calendar. The selection rewards the Giants' community engagement efforts and Oracle Park's reputation as one of baseball's premier venues. Local officials anticipate significant economic impact from the week-long festivities surrounding the game.

Pirates Third Baseman Day-to-Day

Pirates third baseman Nick Gonzalez suffered a facial contusion and is listed as day-to-day after being struck on the helmet by a pitch in the fifth inning against the Red Sox. Gonzales' helmet injury occurred during Pittsburgh's 6-3 loss at Fenway Park. The rookie underwent concussion protocol testing and remained in the game briefly before being removed as a precaution. His status will be reassessed before Sunday's series finale.

Nationals Shift Abrams to Second Base

Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams, an NL All-Star starter this season, is moving to second base in a strategic repositioning that manager Dave Martinez believes strengthens the team's defensive alignment. Abrams' position change reflects the organization's commitment to maximizing his offensive contributions while addressing defensive metrics that showed struggles at shortstop. The transition will require adjustment period at the new position, though Abrams' speed and arm strength translate well to second base.

Diamondbacks Lose Marte to Knee Soreness

Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte will be day-to-day after leaving Arizona's 2-0 win against Atlanta with left knee soreness. Marte's knee issue affects the team's lineup flexibility as they navigate a crucial division race. Marte contributed two hits before exiting in the seventh inning and underwent imaging tests that ruled out structural damage. His availability for Monday's series opener remains uncertain.

Remembering Butch Huskey

Former MLB player Butch Huskey, who played seven major league seasons and was among the last players to wear No. 42 before its permanent retirement, has died at age. Huskey's legacy remembrance honors a player who represented the final generation of athletes permitted to wear Jackie Robinson's iconic number. Huskey's 1998 season with the Mets included 24 home runs and 85 RBIs, establishing him as a fan favorite during his brief window wearing the revered uniform number.

Ohtani's Contract Situation Clarified

Shohei Ohtani likely would not exercise a "key man" clause allowing him to opt out of his contract if Mark Walter sells the Dodgers, according to a source familiar with the situation. Ohtani's opt-out clause provides stability for the Dodgers franchise amid ongoing ownership speculation. The clarification removes uncertainty surrounding one of baseball's most scrutinized contractual provisions and ensures Ohtani's continued presence regardless of potential ownership changes.