MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

All-Star Game & Home Run Derby Recap

The American League in Tuesday night's All-Star Game, with starting pitcher Dylan Cease and 10 relievers combining for a 4-0 victory and 15 strikeouts in a dominant performance. Cardinals outfielder Jordan Walker, expressing hope that his win will. A collection of 21 autographed baseballs from every U.S. president since Theodore Roosevelt at an MLB All-Star live auction.

Player News and Injury Updates

Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani, according to manager Dave Roberts, and was expected to be in the lineup for Friday's game against the Yankees. Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge's broken rib has not fully healed, and he has not been cleared to resume baseball activities. Mariners GM Justin Hollander is hopeful that center fielder Julio Rodriguez can return from a concussion on Saturday. Phillies reliever Brad Keller has a torn right UCL and potentially impacting his 2026 campaign. Athletics DH Brent Rooker underwent season-ending left knee surgery, a significant loss for the club.

Trade Deadline Buzz and Roster Moves

The Brewers for right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. from the Astros. McCullers Jr. will initially pitch out of the bullpen as the Brewers navigate injuries to key players. The Pirates acquired former top prospect Robert Hassell III from the Nationals in exchange for cash or a player to be named later in a recent deal.

Contract Extensions and Signing News

All-Star right-hander Chase Burns and the Reds have agreed to a seven-year, $105 million extension. Sources indicate that Roch Cholowsky, the No. 1 pick in the MLB draft, has reportedly agreed to a record-breaking $10.35 million signing bonus with the White Sox.

Managerial Decisions and Game Recaps

Yankees manager Aaron Boone to keep starter Gerrit Cole in the game during Friday night's 2-1 loss to the Dodgers. In Friday's game against the Cardinals, D-backs' Ketel Marte failed to challenge a called strike three, which replays showed was out of the zone, leading to the final out in a 5-4 loss. The Mets defeated the Phillies 4-1 on Thursday night, with Francisco Alvarez and Brett Baty both hitting home runs in the win.

League Operations and Future Outlook

Major League Baseball is reportedly set to have its earliest Opening Day on March 24 next year, pending any labor disputes and potential lockouts. MLB's participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics is facing hurdles due to disagreements with the MLB Players Association according to sources. The second half of the MLB season is underway, with bettors showing significant interest in the White Sox and moving away from the Mets in betting trends.

Fantasy Baseball and Betting Tips

Fantasy baseball managers can consider waiver wire pickups based on upcoming schedules for the week. For Friday's games, bettors can look at recommended prop bets and trends, with Rafael Devers highlighted as a player to watch in betting insights. Fantasy baseball analyst Eric Karabell is with potential predictions for award winners like Justin Walker and rookie of the year candidate Griffin.

Game Postponements and Environmental Concerns

Friday's scheduled game between the Pirates and Guardians in Cleveland was postponed due to concerns over air quality stemming from wildfire smoke originating from Canada and northern Minnesota.