MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

All-Star Break Wrap-Up and Standings Shake-Ups

The MLB season has officially resumed after the All-Star break, with the Mets kicking things off with a victory over the Phillies. Francisco Alvarez and Brett Baty led the offensive charge with multiple home runs in the 4-1 win. Meanwhile, the American League dominated the National League in the All-Star Game, with Dylan Cease and 10 relievers combining for a 15-strikeout shutout in a 4-0 victory. Major League Baseball is slated for an early March 24 Opening Day next year, provided a labor dispute doesn't interfere.

Injury Updates and Roster Moves

Several teams are contending with significant injuries as the season progresses. Yankees manager Aaron Boone questioned his decision to keep Gerrit Cole in the game during a tough 2-1 loss to the Dodgers. Aaron Judge's recovery from a broken rib continues to be slow, as he has not yet been cleared for baseball activities. The Mariners, however, are hopeful that Julio Rodriguez can return from a concussion as early as Saturday. In terms of roster changes, the Brewers acquired Lance McCullers Jr. from the Astros, with the right-hander expected to begin in relief for the injury-plagued team. The Athletics' Brent Rooker will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing knee surgery. The Phillies' Brad Keller has a torn UCL and is likely out for the season.

Player News and Contract Extensions

Shohei Ohtani received a lubricant injection in his left knee, not a fluid drainage, according to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, and was in the lineup for Friday's game against the Yankees. Roberts later confirmed Ohtani would be in the lineup for the series against the Yankees. In a significant contract extension, All-Star right-hander Chase Burns has agreed to a seven-year, $105 million deal with the Reds, who are banking on his 11-1 record and.54 ERA. The Pirates also made a move, acquiring former top prospect Robert Hassell III from the Nationals for cash or a player to be named later.

League-Wide Discussions and Betting Trends

Even amidst All-Star festivities, the specter of a potential labor dispute loomed over the league. Discussions are ongoing regarding MLB's participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, though disagreements with the MLB Players Association present hurdles. From a betting perspective, bettors are flocking to the White Sox while abandoning the Mets halfway through the season. Rafael Devers is a key player to watch for betting tips on Friday.

Player Milestones and Future Outlooks

Ketel Marte's failure to challenge a called strike three in the D-backs' 5-4 loss to the Cardinals drew attention, despite replays suggesting the pitch was outside the zone. Jordan Walker hopes his Home Run Derby win will inspire more Black youth to play baseball. Looking at fantasy baseball, managers are advised to consider waiver wire pickups based on upcoming schedules. Fantasy analysts are also speculating on potential end-of-season awards, such as who might finish as the No. 1 player or the top rookie. The Dodgers are also planning a bobblehead giveaway to celebrate a memorable catch by Pages.

Other Noteworthy Items

A scheduled game between the Pirates and Guardians in Cleveland was postponed due to poor air quality from wildfire smoke. The Red Sox have been on a winning streak since trading Jaylen Brown, a surprising turn of events for Boston sports fans. The No. 1 overall pick in the MLB draft, Roch Cholowsky, has reportedly agreed to a record-breaking $10.35 million signing bonus with the White Sox.