MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: May 23, 2026, 5:45 PM ET

Pitching Excellence & Triumphant Returns

Gerrit Cole returned from a 569-day absence to deliver six shutout innings for the Yankees, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from elbow ligament reconstruction. The right-hander's performance provided a boost to New York's rotation as they continue to integrate key arms back into the lineup. In Cleveland, Gavin Williams matched Cristopher Sanchez with eight scoreless innings before Kyle Manzardo delivered a decisive pinch-hit homer in the ninth, lifting the Guardians to a 1-0 victory. Meanwhile, Shohei Ohtani provided a superstar performance by hitting a leadoff home run and pitching five scoreless innings as the Dodgers defeated the Padres. The Japanese two-way sensation's dual threat capability continues to anchor Los Angeles's playoff aspirations. In a marquee pitching matchup, Trey Yesavage outdueled Cam Schlittler as the Toronto Blue Jays edged the New York Yankees 2-1, showcasing the emerging talent in the American League.

Injury Report & Roster Moves

Houston's Yordan Alvarez exited Saturday's game with back spasms, a concerning development for the Astros given the three-time All-Star's .300 batting average, 15 home runs, and 31 RBIs this season. The designated hitter's absence would significantly impact Houston's lineup protection. Arizona's Lourdes Gurriel Jr. left with left hamstring tightness after making a sliding catch, adding to the Diamondbacks' injury concerns. Los Angeles also lost Max Muncy after getting hit by a pitch around his right wrist in the eighth inning, potentially weakening their infield depth. The Cubs placed Matt Shaw on the injured list with back tightness and promoted Pedro Ramirez from Triple-A, where he was hitting .312 with nine home runs. In Anaheim, the Angels optioned Josh Lowe to Triple-A while placing Yoán Moncada on the 10-day injured list due to right knee inflammation.

Recovery Updates & Surgery News

New York's José Caballero was activated off the injured list for Friday's game against Tampa Bay, with Anthony Volpe expected to see time at second base to provide additional infield depth. The Yankees also received positive news on Trent Grisham, as tests revealed no structural damage to his left knee after exiting Thursday's game. However, the news wasn't as positive elsewhere, as Marlins prospect Robby Snelling will undergo Tommy John surgery, ending his season after his major league debut injury. Toronto's José Berríos underwent full Tommy John surgery, sidelining the veteran starter well into the 2027 season. Athletics right-hander Gunnar Hoglund won't pitch this season as he recovers from hip surgery, another setback for Oakland's pitching staff.

Rehabilitation Assignments & Returns

Mets starter Kodai Senga began his rehab assignment Friday as he works toward returning from lower back pain that landed him on the injured list. The right-hander's progression will be closely monitored as New York needs rotation stability. Meanwhile, Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber returned to the lineup after sitting out three games with a gastrointestinal illness, batting second as the designated hitter in Friday's game against Cleveland. The Reds activated Eugenio Suárez from the 10-day injured list, providing a boost to their struggling offense. Schwarber's return comes at a crucial time for Philadelphia's lineup.

Minor League Notes & Discipline

Mariners pitcher Jose Zerpa was suspended 80 games following a positive test for Stanozolol under baseball's minor league drug program, a significant blow to Seattle's pitching depth. In a more positive development, Mariners shortstop J.P. Crawford expressed willingness to play third base after rookie Colt Emerson's promotion from Triple-A Tacoma, showing flexibility in Seattle's infield alignment. The Athletics also faced injury news as Denzel Clarke suffered a significant left hamstring strain and will be out until at least after the All-Star break in July, further depleting Oakland's outfield options.

Stadium Development & Team Rankings

Athletics officials confirmed their $2 billion Las Vegas stadium remains on schedule to open before the 2028 season, with the lower bowl already taking shape on the Las Vegas Strip. The project represents a new chapter for Oakland's franchise as they prepare for relocation. In weekly assessments, MLB Power Rankings showed significant movement with several playoff hopefuls achieving their highest rankings in years, reflecting the competitive balance across both leagues through eight weeks of action.

Prospects & Innovation

Updated top 50 MLB prospect rankings were released, featuring a major shake-up at the top of the list as evaluators reassessed the next wave of baseball stars. The rankings provide insight into which organizations have the deepest talent pipelines. Meanwhile, Miami's innovative approaches continue to draw attention, whether through calling pitches from the dugout or radically rethinking batting practice routines, demonstrating that the Marlins aren't afraid to experiment despite their current record.

Notable Performances

Jackson Holliday hit a two-run homer that traveled just 337 feet but managed to sneak under the foul pole in left field during Friday's 7-4 win over Detroit. The Orioles' top prospect continues to show power potential at the big league level. In a lighter moment, Chisholm broke a slump by borrowing Giancarlo Stanton's pants, taking equipment from a teammate who is seven inches taller and 61 pounds heavier—a unconventional approach that apparently worked.