MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: May 22, 2026, 2:53 AM ET

Injury Updates and Player Movement

Multiple key players exited games or underwent procedures this week as teams navigated injury concerns. Braves shortstop Ronald Acuna Jr. left Thursday's game with pain in his left thumb as a precaution, while Cubs starter Edward Cabrera departed against Milwaukee in the fourth inning with a blister on his right middle finger. Yankees center fielder Trent Grisham avoided structural damage to his left knee after exiting a game the previous day, providing relief that tests showed no significant damage. Tigers ace Tarik Skubal threw his third bullpen session since elbow surgery, with manager A.J. Hinch calling it a "great step" toward return, though his timeline remains uncertain. José Berríos underwent Tommy John surgery on his right elbow, sidelining the Blue Jays starter into the 2027 season, while Marlins prospect Robby Snelling will have season-ending UCL surgery in his left elbow following his major league debut. Braves catcher Drake Baldwin, the NL Rookie of the Year, was placed on the IL with a strained right oblique, and Cardinals shortstop Masyn Winn underwent an MRI on his left knee while missing lineup action. On the prospect front, the Pirates recalled outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia from Triple-A Indianapolis to bolster their outfield depth, and the Mariners activated reliever Matt Brash from the injured list while moving J.P. Crawford to third base in preparation for rookie Colt Emerson's promotion.

Performance Highlights and Standout Plays

Shohei Ohtani delivered a rare dual-threat performance, hitting a leadoff home run before pitching five scoreless innings in the Dodgers' victory over the Padres, showcasing his unprecedented value. Marlins slugger Kyle Schwarber continues chasing history, hitting homers at a historic pace that projects him toward the 60-homer plateau if sustained. Reds right-hander Chase Burns struck out nine over six innings while overcoming a frightening moment when he was struck in the backside by Bryce Harper's 108.8 mph liner. Nationals outfielder James Wood hit the majors' first inside-the-park grand slam since 2022 against the Mets, while Dodgers rookie Andy Pages delivered a clutch performance, with Freddie Freeman calling his at-bat against Padres closer Mason Miller "one of the greatest I've ever seen." Blue Jays prospect Trey Yesavage outdueled Cam Schlittler in a marquee matchup between young aces, leading Toronto to a 2-1 win over the Yankees. Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong reflected on his recent defensive lapses, calling his errors genuinely laughable after allowing balls to scoot under his glove in consecutive games against the Brewers.

Organizational Moves and Development

The Athletics continue progressing on their $2 billion Las Vegas stadium, with officials confirming the lower bowl is on schedule for a 2028 opening, while right-hander Gunnar Hoglund won't pitch this season after hip surgery recovery. Twins former No. 1 pick Royce Lewis was sent to the minors following a poor stretch of 25 strikeouts in 68 plate appearances since his April 21 return. Marlins continue their innovative approach, rethinking BP and calling pitches from the dugout as Miami attempts to distinguish itself through un conventional methods. The Nationals activated outfielder Dylan Crews less than two months after his surprise spring training demotion, while Cubs reliever Caleb Thielbar was activated from the IL to bolster a depleted bullpen. These moves coincide with ongoing evaluations of team performance, as early postseason verdicts suggest several surprising teams are emerging as legitimate contenders almost two months into the 2026 season.