MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: June 22, 2026, 8:32 PM ET

MLB Player Movement & Injury Updates

Several teams are nearing the return of key players from the injured list, while others are dealing with new setbacks. The Cincinnati Reds expect shortstop Elly De La Cruz to be reinstated Tuesday after a 19-game absence due to a strained right hamstring. Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor is slated for at least one more rehab game Tuesday with Triple-A Syracuse, with the team to assess his readiness after a two-month layoff. The Philadelphia Phillies recalled right-hander Alan Rangel and reinstated left-hander Kyle Backhus from the 15-day injured list Monday. White Sox catcher Kyle Teel is set to make his season debut against Cleveland after being sidelined by thigh and knee injuries, while Edgar Quero was optioned. Catcher Will Smith's return for the Dodgers from a neck injury has been delayed, and he may not travel with the team on its upcoming road trip. The New York Yankees activated Austin Wells from the 10-day injured list after a two-week absence due to cervical headaches.

Pitching Injuries Mount Across Leagues

Pitching staffs continue to be depleted by injuries across Major League Baseball. The Arizona Diamondbacks placed right-hander Michael Soroka on the 15-day injured list with a strained right glute, marking another starting pitcher to hit the IL. Soroka had exited Friday's game after just one inning with posterior left hip discomfort. The Texas Rangers have placed right-hander Jack Leiter on the 15-day injured list with an ankle issue that has hampered him for much of the season, while starter Nathan Eovaldi was scratched from his scheduled start due to knee soreness. Cubs closer Daniel Palencia was diagnosed with a mild flexor strain in his right arm. The Boston Red Sox placed utility infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa on the injured list Saturday with left forearm inflammation.

Notable Player Performances & Milestones

A weekend of offensive fireworks saw several players achieve significant milestones. Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani announced he became a father again on Saturday and later hit a home run in the team's loss to the Orioles. Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber delivered a three-homer performance, while Bryce Harper recorded his first career cycle in a dominant 15-3 victory over the Mets. The Minnesota Twins saw Byron Buxton hit a grand slam during a massive 10-run fifth inning in their 16-8 win against the Diamondbacks. Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Robert Gasser earned his first win since May 15 in a 9-4 victory over the Braves on Sunday, and rookie Cam Schlittler generated buzz with 13 strikeouts on Friday night, drawing praise from NBA player Josh Hart. Brewers ace Jacob Misiorowski touched 104.2 mph on the radar gun during his outing Friday.

Rookie Standouts & Fantasy Considerations

As the season progresses, several rookie players are emerging as significant contributors and potential waiver wire targets. AL Central rookies headline the list of players fantasy managers should consider claiming off waivers this week, indicating a trend of young talent making an impact. For clubs leading their respective divisions, consistent clutch hitting has been a primary driver of their success, suggesting that timely offense from both established stars and emerging players is crucial for postseason contention.

Club Roster Moves & Management Updates

Beyond player injuries, clubs are making roster adjustments and management is facing personal health challenges. The Miami Marlins designated infielder Christopher Morel for assignment and placed slugger Liam Hicks on the injured list due to a lower back strain. Marlins slugger Liam Hicks was also scratched from Saturday's game with back tightness. Brewers manager Pat Murphy announced plans for back surgery on Thursday and a hip procedure during the All-Star break. The Texas Rangers optioned second baseman Josh Smith to Triple-A Round Rock on Friday, just days after his return from a 37-game absence due to injuries and viral meningitis.

League Operations & Collectibles Discussion

In other league news, a recent game between the Padres and Rangers notably featured only two umpires on the field at the start of play. Separately, the practice of breaking baseball card boxes is under scrutiny, with discussions arising about whether it constitutes gambling.