MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: July 8, 2026, 5:31 PM ET

All-Star Snubs and Replacements

The Major League Baseball All-Star rosters were unveiled, sparking debate over notable omissions and the subsequent replacements. Philadelphia Phillies right-hander Zack Wheeler expressed frustration after being overlooked for an All-Star nod, only to deliver a dominant performance where he tied a career high with 14 strikeouts. Other players named as replacements included Willson Contreras and Graham Ashcraft joining the NL roster, while the list of snubs also prompted discussions about team-specific standouts, with Shohei Ohtani and Bobby Witt Jr. among those recognized as first-half MVPs for their respective clubs recognizing top performers.

Home Run Derby Participants

The field for the upcoming Home Run Derby in Philadelphia is taking shape, featuring some of baseball's premier sluggers. Among those confirmed are New York Yankees outfielder Ben Rice, who leads his team with 26 home runs, and Kansas City Royals slugger Jac Caglianone, who has demonstrated impressive power with a high average home run distance swinging for the fences. The derby is expected to showcase a collection of the league's top power hitters, with further announcements anticipated as the event nears breaking down the field.

Milestone Achievements and Records

Several players etched their names in the record books over the past few days. Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Ryan O'Hearn achieved a club record by driving in 10 runs in a single game, powered by three home runs. In another remarkable feat, Kansas City Royals outfielder Tyler Tolbert tied a major league record by recording hits in 12 consecutive plate appearances. Meanwhile, the New York Yankees reached a historical low, becoming the first team in American League history to strike out 17 times in consecutive games, underscoring offensive struggles.

Player Injuries and Returns

The injury bug continued to affect several teams, leading to roster adjustments. The Minnesota Twins placed center fielder Byron Buxton on the injured list due to a lingering hip issue aggravated hip injury. The Pittsburgh Pirates also saw their shortstop, Konnor Griffin, land on the injured list with a finger injury back on the injured list. On a positive note, the Los Angeles Dodgers welcomed back reliever Evan Phillips from Tommy John surgery, marking his return to the mound after a 13-month layoff back Tommy John surgery. Additionally, the New York Mets saw Jorge Polanco return to the lineup after nearly three months sidelined with wrist and Achilles injuries back in the lineup.

Pitching Performances and Suspensions

Pitchers delivered a mix of standout performances and disciplinary news. Philadelphia Phillies ace Cristopher Sanchez endured a difficult outing, allowing a career-worst nine earned runs in a lopsided loss. Conversely, Cam Schlittler bounced back from a previous defeat to pitch eight strong innings, leading the New York Yankees to a victory bounces back from loss. In a disciplinary development, Nationals pitcher Cade Cavalli's suspension for his role in a brawl saw its suspension reduced on appeal.

Player Transactions and Roster Moves

Teams continued to make roster moves to address needs and evaluate talent. The Houston Astros optioned right-hander Mike Burrows to Triple-A Sugar Land after a challenging start sent Triple-A. The Milwaukee Brewers called up 21-year-old outfield prospect Luis Lara called up prospect. In a significant move, the Atlanta Braves placed left-hander Martín Pérez on the injured list with a forearm contusion and designated Carrasco for assignment injury list, DFA Carrasco.

Draft Prospects and Intel

As the MLB draft approaches, draft guides and prospect rankings are being released. Questions persist about who the Chicago White Sox will select with the first overall pick, with comprehensive rankings of the top 250 prospects available latest intel for draft. There are also concerns regarding potential draftees, with news emerging that top prospect Brody Bumila has an UCL injury, raising questions about his pitching future.

End of an Era for Aces

The impending retirement of Justin Verlander signals the close of a significant chapter for elite pitchers in Major League Baseball. The three-time Cy Young Award winner and former MVP, who is currently the league's oldest active player at, announced he will retire after the 2026 season. Verlander's departure marks the end of an era for dominant aces, with many suggesting that we won't see another pitcher like him.

League Developments and Personnel Changes

Beyond player performances, league-wide developments are also occurring. The Women's Professional Baseball League unveiled its team nicknames and logos for its inaugural season, with names inspired by pioneering women unveils nicknames, logos. In a personnel change, Detroit Tigers third base coach Joey Cora has left the club in the middle of his third season leaves Tigers during season. The passing of former major league pitcher and longtime coach Phil Regan at age 89 was also announced ex-MLB pitcher dies.

Midseason Team Assessments

As the season reaches its midpoint, teams are being evaluated based on their performance. Some clubs are receiving high marks for their early success, while others are facing criticism for falling short of expectations midseason grades for clubs. These assessments are also influencing fantasy baseball strategies, with advice being given on which players to acquire and drop from waiver wires free agents: pitching takes, and which players might be attractive trade targets or ones to avoid in the second half of the season second-half moves.

Player Draft Memories

As the focus shifts towards future talent, some current major leaguers recalled their own draft experiences. From first-round selections to players drafted in now-defunct rounds, these athletes shared memories of the moment they were picked in the MLB draft. These recollections offer a glimpse into the aspirations and uncertainties that accompany the journey to professional baseball.