MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 2:31 AM ET

Injuries Continue to Mount Across MLB

The injury bug continued to bite across Major League Baseball, with several key players landing on the injured list. Giants infielder Casey Schmitt underwent an MRI revealing a torn meniscus in his left knee, and the team stated there is no timetable for his return. Similarly, Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. exited Tuesday with right hamstring tightness. Twins outfielder Byron Buxton and left in the fifth inning of Minnesota's victory. Red Sox infielder Curtis Mead in his debut after being hit by a pitch, with follow-up tests confirming the severity. Yankees All-Star outfielder Cody Bellinger will be out for four to six weeks due to a Grade 2 left hamstring strain. Reds utility man Spencer Steer was placed on the injured list Monday with a right wrist sprain, and Rangers third baseman Josh Jung was also placed on the IL with a left calf strain. Athletics All-Star catcher Shea Langeliers of the 2026 season after suffering a torn meniscus in his right knee, with season-ending surgery already scheduled. Mets All-Star Juan Soto was diagnosed with a Grade 2 left calf strain and is expected to miss a significant period, though he remains "100%" optimistic about returning this year.

Trade Deadline Speculation Heats Up Amidst Team Struggles and Player Moves

As the August 3 trade deadline approaches, speculation is rife about potential blockbuster deals and team reinforcements. Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper was direct, stating the team "" with their recent 3-8 stretch since the All-Star break. Tigers ace Tarik Skubal Wednesday against the Orioles, with manager A.J. Hinch confirming his availability as the deadline looms. In roster moves, the Mariners from the injured list while designating pitcher Mike Kennedy for assignment. The Cubs for assignment following a string of poor outings. The Brewers, meanwhile for assignment less than two weeks after acquiring him. On the international front, former pitcher Chan Ho Park to purchase a stake in a Major League Baseball club, joining the Athletics' ownership group.

Pitching Woes and Hit-by-Pitch Incidents Mark Recent Games

Pitching performances have been a mixed bag, with some notable struggles and a concerning rise in hit batters. Blue Jays pitcher Shane Bieber in the first inning against the Nationals, including three with the bases loaded, before departing the game. The league is also seeing an increase in batters being hit by pitches, with one report detailing a "" amidst hunting velocity and weak control. Pirates rookie slugger Esmerlyn Valdez was back in the lineup Tuesday after being hit in the left hand by a pitch on Monday, though he initially exited that game. However, new Red Sox infielder Curtis Mead after being hit on the left wrist by a pitch in the fourth inning, which later revealed a fractured wrist.

Ohtani's Return to the Mound Remains Uncertain Amidst Ongoing Investigation

The return of Shohei Ohtani to the pitcher's mound for the Dodgers continues to be a significant question mark. Manager Dave Roberts indicated that Ohtani experienced "a little bit of regression" after his last bullpen session, leading the team to opt for him to skip a subsequent session. The ongoing investigation into his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, and a massive sports betting scheme also continues to draw attention, with new audio shedding light on the situation. Reports indicate Ohtani's interpreter "" that the Dodgers slugger had agreed to cover his gambling debt but later reversed course.

Milestone Performances and Hall of Fame Inductions

Individual milestones and significant career achievements have also been in the spotlight. Mike Trout recorded his "" in over five years, while also climbing the Angels' all-time lists for doubles and singles. Salvador Perez continued his impressive power display, hitting his 318th career homer to "" on the Royals' all-time list. In a milestone for the Orioles, Dylan Beavers delivered his "" in less than a year at the major league level. Meanwhile, the baseball world celebrated the enshrinement of Andruw Jones, Carlos Beltran, and Jeff Kent into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, marking a significant moment for the sport.

Marlins End Historic Losing Streak, Other Teams Battle Slumps

The Miami Marlins finally broke through, ending their franchise-record 12-game losing streak with a walk-off win against the Phillies. Manager Clayton McCullough likened the team's skid to "an Odyssey" before their victory. In contrast, the Padres completed a sweep of the Marlins, pushing Miami's losing streak to a franchise-high 12 games.