MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: June 24, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

Injuries Continue to Mount Across MLB

The injury bug continued its sweep across Major League Baseball over the past three days, with several key players forced to leave games or placed on the injured list. Athletics infielder Zack Gelof exited Tuesday's game after his hand was spiked by a cleat during a rundown, while Cubs pitcher Edward Cabrera was carted off the field with a leg injury sustained while stretching for a throw at first base. Mets outfielder Juan Soto departed after four innings against the Rockies due to back tightness, and Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams was a late scratch with left side tightness against Philadelphia. Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber was also scratched with lower back tightness before Tuesday's game.

In other injury news, Dodgers outfielder Kyle Tucker was removed Monday with low back spasms, and Rangers pitcher Jack Leiter was placed on the 15-day injured list with an ongoing ankle issue while Corey Seager remains sidelined. The Kansas City Royals expect Cole Ragans to undergo surgery for an elbow impingement that has kept him out since early May. The Mets also continue to monitor Francisco Lindor, who is slated to play at least one more rehab game Tuesday for Triple-A Syracuse before a potential activation.

Player Transactions and Returns

The Minnesota Twins have stated they have "no plans" to trade veteran All-Star outfielder Byron Buxton, with GM confirming Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Reds activated Elly De La Cruz from the injured list after he missed just over three weeks with a strained right hamstring, and he is expected to be reinstated Tuesday. The Brewers made a roster move, releasing infielder Luis Rengifo after he opened the season as their primary third baseman. The Phillies recalled right-hander Alan Rangel and reinstated left-hander Kyle Backhus from the injured list. White Sox catcher Kyle Teel is set to make his season debut against Cleveland after overcoming injuries. The Yankees activated Austin Wells from the 10-day IL after a two-week absence due to cervical headaches this past week.

Managerial and Front Office Musings

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed his mild frustration regarding two consecutive rainouts in New York over the past few days. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns indicated that the Aug. 3 trade deadline will serve as the "cut off" for the team to decide whether to pursue a playoff spot or pivot to future planning for 2027. MLB commissioner Rob Manfred commented on the Giants' controversial Pride cap situation, stating that the team's guidance to players regarding the option to decline wearing the caps was "not clear" to the players.

Underrated Talent and Player Performance

Despite the season's challenges, some players are quietly performing at high levels. Left-handed hitters are reportedly "