MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: July 28, 2026, 5:31 PM ET

Ohtani Interpreter Case and Player Injuries Dominate Headlines

New audio has surfaced shedding further light on the unraveling relationship between Shohei Ohtani and his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, amid a massive sports betting scheme. Mizuhara initially told a reporter that Ohtani had agreed to cover his substantial gambling debts but later reversed his statement within 24 hours, according to newly released information. The saga continues to unfold, with a podcast detailing how the relationship deteriorated listen now. Meanwhile, the league is grappling with an increase in hit batters. A new philosophy of "just wear it" is emerging as players contend with increased velocity and erratic control from pitchers. Several players were sidelined by pitches in recent days. Boston's Curtis Mead exited his Red Sox debut with a contusion after being hit on the wrist, while Pirates rookie Esmerlyn Valdez was removed from his game after a pitch struck his hand.

Trade Deadline Buzz and Roster Moves

With the MLB trade deadline approaching, speculation is rife about potential blockbuster deals that could shake up the league. Contenders are assessing their needs, with particular attention on National League powerhouses like Milwaukee and Atlanta as they chase the Dodgers. The Cubs designated veteran pitcher Jameson Taillon for assignment following a rough outing where he surrendered seven runs in four innings. In other roster moves, the Athletics will see catcher Shea Langeliers and pitcher Mark Leiter Jr. undergo season-ending surgeries. The Giants' Casey Schmitt is also facing a significant period on the sidelines due to an apparent leg injury.

Injury Bug Continues to Bite Key Players

Several prominent players are facing extended absences due to injuries. Yankees All-Star outfielder Cody Bellinger will miss four to six weeks with a Grade 2 left hamstring strain. Mets All-Star Juan Soto has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a Grade 2 left calf strain and is expected to miss considerable time, though he is "100%" confident of returning this season. The Reds have placed utility man Spencer Steer on the injured list with a right wrist sprain. Rangers shortstop Corey Seager took live batting practice for the first time since his back injury resurfaced in July. The Rangers have also placed third baseman Josh Jung on the 10-day IL with a left calf strain. The Astros placed starter Hunter Brown on the 15-day injured list with nerve irritation in his right foot. Twins right-hander Mike Paredes was scratched from his start with a left oblique strain.

Milestone Performances and Historic Streaks

Griffin Conine delivered a walk-off single to end the Marlins' franchise-record 12-game losing streak with a victory over the Phillies. The preceding day, the Padres completed a sweep of the Marlins, pushing their losing streak to 12 games. Mike Trout recorded his first four-hit game in over five years, also moving up the Angels' all-time lists for doubles and singles. Salvador Perez hit his 318th career home run, surpassing George Brett for the Royals' franchise record. Dylan Beavers hit his third career walk-off for the Orioles with an RBI single in the ninth inning. Ryan O'Hearn hit a birthday grand slam to help the Pirates avoid a sweep against the Cubs.

Hall of Fame Inductions and Draft Signings

The newest class of Baseball Hall of Famers, including Andruw Jones, Carlos Beltran, and Jeff Kent, were officially enshrined in Cooperstown. Their diverse paths to Cooperstown represent multiple countries, teams, and eras of the game. In draft news, pitchers Logan Schmidt and Aidan Knaak were the only players from the first 10 rounds of the amateur draft who did not sign by the Monday deadline.

Fantasy Baseball Notes and Player Updates

Fantasy managers should take note of closer Edwin Diaz's impending return to the mound. Among free agents, Boston's current offensive surge highlights several players worth considering for waiver wire pickups. Athletics prospect Ryan Lasko is making progress in his recovery from a broken back and reports feeling returning sensation in his legs. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated Shohei Ohtani experienced a slight setback after his last bullpen session, leading to him skipping a scheduled session. Veteran pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. was designated for assignment by the Brewers less than two weeks after being acquired. The Athletics reinstated slugger Nick Kurtz from the injured list and placed him in the lineup as designated hitter. Former pitcher Chan Ho Park has joined the Athletics' ownership group, marking a significant addition to the team's structure.

Other Notable Performances and Transactions

Milwaukee's Jacob Misiorowski set a franchise record by striking out the first seven batters he faced on Sunday, ultimately fanning 12 of the first 13. Braves manager Walt Weiss's strategic intentional walk in the bottom of the 11th inning paid off as the team secured a 3-2 victory. The Red Sox and Nationals completed a trade, with Boston acquiring infielder Curtis Mead for left-hander Connelly Early. Freddy Peralta indicated he likely pitched his final game for the Mets before the Aug. 3 trade deadline, acknowledging he "let them down".