MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: July 20, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

American League East Shake-ups and Streaks

The Boston Red Sox to 13 games with a 6-1 victory over the Rays on Sunday, powered by a two-run homer from Willson Contreras and a solid outing from Sonny Gray. This impressive run follows a 12-game winning streak that included a four-run rally to defeat the Rays. Meanwhile, the Orioles have secured a significant long-term commitment, agreeing to a $90 million extension with starting pitcher Kyle Bradish. However, Baltimore also faces injury concerns, as rookie catcher Samuel Basallo with shoulder discomfort.

National League Powerhouses and Prospects

In the National League, the Atlanta Braves after an oblique injury, as the catcher went 5 for 5 with two home runs in an 8-5 win. The team also made roster moves to Triple-A Gwinnett and selecting veteran right-hander Elieser Hernández. The Pirates are celebrating the early success of rookie outfielder Esmerlyn Valdez, who already boasts 12 home runs and 31 RBIs in his first 31 games, a feat matched by only three other players in MLB history. Pittsburgh also acquired former top prospect Robert Hassell III from the Nationals in a trade deal.

Injuries and Player Moves Across the League

Several teams are grappling with significant player injuries and roster adjustments. The New York Yankees as he continues to heal from a fractured rib and awaits further scans, with manager Aaron Boone lamenting his decision to stick with Gerrit Cole in a recent loss. The Los Angeles Dodgers are managing Shohei Ohtani's knee issue, with manager Dave Roberts clarifying that Ohtani received a lubricant injection, not a fluid drain, though his pitching return is stalled. The Athletics suffered a major blow with Brent Rooker undergoing season-ending knee surgery on Friday.

Trade Deadline Buzz and Future Outlooks

As the trade deadline approaches, speculation abounds regarding which teams will become buyers and sellers. Reports suggest that teams are weighing potential moves, with stars potentially on the move. Kiley McDaniel the top 10 prospect rankings for all 30 teams, offering insights into the future talent pool. The Cubs bolstered their pitching staff by from the Athletics. On the international front, Rintaro Sasaki has announced he will sign with the Miami Marlins, forgoing a professional career in Japan.

Club Milestones and Memorials

The Chicago Cubs celebrated the 10-year anniversary of their 2016 World Series championship, with members of that team, including MVP Ben Zobrist, Anthony Rizzo, and Jake Arrieta. In a poignant moment, former Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo, attending the ceremony hit by current Cubs first baseman Michael Busch from the bleachers. Sadly, the league mourns the passing of Duane Ward, a key reliever for the Toronto Blue Jays' back-to-back World Series teams in the early 1990s, who died at the age of 62.

Pitching Performances and Contract Extensions

Pitchers have been delivering notable performances and securing their futures. Pirates right-hander Jared Jones on Saturday, becoming the third Pirates pitcher to achieve such a feat. The Reds have made a significant investment, signing starter Chase Burns to a $105 million, seven-year contract. Meanwhile, Rockies pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano in a 10-3 win over the Reds. The Brewers are set to have Brandon Woodruff undergo another shoulder surgery.