MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: June 23, 2026, 11:31 PM ET

Injury Bug Continues to Bite National League Teams

A rash of injuries continued to plague National League clubs over the past few days. Chicago Cubs pitcher Edward Cabrera was carted off Tuesday night with a left leg injury sustained while stretching for a throw. The Mets, already mired in a disappointing season, may have suffered another blow as Juan Soto exited Tuesday's game with back tightness after just four innings. Kyle Schwarber, the league's home run leader, was also scratched from Tuesday's lineup with lower back tightness. In Washington, shortstop CJ Abrams was a late scratch due to left side tightness against Philadelphia. Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks added another arm to their injured list, placing Michael Soroka on the 15-day IL with a strained right glute Saturday.

Key Players Return from Injured List

Despite the influx of injuries, some teams received welcome news with the activations of key players. The Cincinnati Reds activated Elly De La Cruz from the injured list ahead of Tuesday night's game, after he missed just over three weeks. His return had been anticipated, with reports Monday suggesting he was expected to be reinstated Tuesday. The Mets are still assessing shortstop Francisco Lindor, who is slated to play at least one more rehab game Tuesday for Triple-A Syracuse after a two-month absence due to injury. The Yankees activated catcher Austin Wells from the 10-day IL after a two-week absence for cervical headaches. In White Sox news, catcher Kyle Teel is off the IL and set to make his season debut.

Pitching Woes and Updates

Pitching news dominated headlines, with several pitchers facing significant setbacks. Kansas City Royals pitcher Cole Ragans is likely to undergo elbow surgery to address an impingement that has sidelined him since early May. The Pirates will see rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin begin his rehab assignment at Double-A Altoona on Tuesday night. In Milwaukee, Brandon Woodruff made his return from the injured list, recording his 900th career strikeout and taking a perfect game into the sixth inning against the Braves. The Brewers' Robert Gasser also earned his first win since May 15th in a victory over Atlanta on Sunday.

Team Management and Player Conduct Under Scrutiny

Clubhouse dynamics and player conduct have also been points of discussion. Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed frustration over consecutive rainouts in New York. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns indicated the team views the Aug. 3 trade deadline as the "cut off" to determine their playoff aspirations for the season. Yankees manager Aaron Boone was reportedly displeased with Jazz Chisholm's decision to play while eating a lollipop during a game. MLB commissioner Rob Manfred commented on the controversy surrounding the Giants' rainbow-themed caps, stating the club's guidance to players was unclear.

Transactions and Roster Moves

Several teams made roster adjustments. The Brewers released infielder Luis Rengifo after he opened the season as their primary third baseman. The Marlins designated infielder Christopher Morel for assignment and placed Liam Hicks on the injured list with a back strain. The Rangers placed pitcher Jack Leiter on the 15-day IL with an ankle issue, while Corey Seager remains sidelined. The Red Sox placed utility infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa on the injured list Saturday with left forearm inflammation.

Star Power and Personal Milestones

Despite the ongoing season, personal milestones and star power have also captured attention. Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Shohei Ohtani announced he is a father again on Saturday, hours before hitting a home run in his team's loss to the Orioles. In a remarkable offensive display Saturday night, Kyle Schwarber hit three home runs, and Bryce Harper achieved a rare cycle as the Phillies crushed the Mets 15-3. Twins outfielder Byron Buxton was a key figure in a 10-run fifth inning rally against the Diamondbacks on Saturday, hitting a grand slam in a 16-8 Minnesota victory. The Minnesota Twins also stated they have no plans to trade their All-Star outfielder Byron Buxton.

Fantasy Baseball Buzz

For fantasy baseball managers, waiver wire pickups and player performances remain a hot topic. Rookie AL Central players headline waiver wire considerations. Meanwhile, analysis of first-half relief pitcher MVPs and potential waiver targets offers guidance. Jeff Passan also handed out unexpected awards for the season's most notable moments.

Managerial Health

Brewers manager Pat Murphy disclosed plans to undergo back and hip surgeries during the upcoming break in the team's schedule.