MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: August 5, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

Dodgers Bolster Rotation with Skubal Acquisition

The Los Angeles Dodgers have significantly strengthened their pitching staff with the acquisition of Tarik Skubal. This move positions the Dodgers as strong favorites to win the World Series, ahead of other contenders like the Yankees. Skubal, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, expressed confidence in his new team, stating that "Every team could trade for me" and dismissing critics of the Dodgers' moves. He made his Dodgers debut on Tuesday, though he didn't have his best performance, throwing 51 strikes on 85 pitches. Despite not showcasing his peak form, the Dodgers' offense provided little run support in his debut. Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged that Skubal was "plenty good" in his initial outing. The acquisition of Skubal was a major move that sent shockwaves through baseball, leading to discussions about whether the Dodgers are now an unstoppable force. Skubal's departure from the Tigers was a significant event, with Detroit's president defending the timing of the trade and stating that "That's not how markets for the top players work".

Key Acquisitions and Departures Across MLB

teams made notable moves at the MLB trade deadline to bolster their rosters for the postseason push. Red Sox acquired three-time All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman from the Baltimore Orioles, a significant addition to a team that has been on a strong run over the past month. Rutschman expressed his desire to integrate into his new team, stating he is "trying to fit in". The Phillies acquired three-time batting champion Luis Arraez from the Giants, marking his fifth team in five years. Bryce Harper will be shifting to right field for the remainder of the season to accommodate Arraez's arrival. The Cubs bolstered their roster by acquiring right-hander Clay Holmes and outfielder Tyrone Taylor from the Mets. The Blue Jays made multiple acquisitions, including outfielder Daulton Varsho from the Astros and right-hander Jose Soriano from the Angels. The Braves acquired veteran pitcher Tyler Mahle from the Giants, adding a 6-foot-3 right-hander to their staff.

Pitching Staff Changes and Injury Concerns

Pitching rotations and bullpens saw significant shuffling due to trades and injuries. The Padres aimed to address rotation issues by trading for left-hander Robbie Ray from the Giants and right-hander Casey Mize from the Tigers. The Rays acquired Freddy Peralta from the Mets, enhancing their rotation for the stretch run. The Guardians made several moves, acquiring left-hander Foster Griffin from the Nationals, along with outfielder Jo Adell and first baseman Nathaniel Lowe. White Sox acquired right-handed pitcher Luis Castillo from the Mariners in exchange for Seranthony Dominguez, Nolan Jones, and prospect Boston Smith. However, several pitchers are dealing with injuries that could impact their teams. Dodgers catcher Rushing has a slight tear in the UCL of his right elbow, revealed by follow-up testing. Padres RHP Pivetta exited his rehab outing with minor tightness in his right elbow. Jays pitcher Trey Yesavage left his start early due to discomfort in his left knee. Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz was placed on the IL with a strained thumb and will see a hand specialist.

Player Milestones and Roster Moves

The league also saw notable player performances and roster adjustments. George Lombard Jr. achieved a significant milestone by becoming the third-youngest Yankee to homer in his first professional game. His brother also homered in his own professional debut on the same night. The Royals activated All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. from the injured list after a two-week absence due to back tightness. Nationals All-Star James Wood was placed on the 10-day injured list with a left oblique strain. Cardinals All-Star fielder Jordan Walker was scratched from the lineup due to right knee inflammation. The Seattle Mariners released veteran catcher Mitch Garver and outfielder Rob Refsnyder, among other roster moves. Rockies left fielder Mickey Moniak has reached a two-year contract extension through the 2028 season, hitting .277 with 18 home runs and 49 RBIs this season.

Trade Deadline Departures and Notable Prospects

As the trade deadline passed, several players were dealt, including prospects who could shape future rosters. The Mets traded reliever Luke Weaver to the Pirates and right-handed reliever Huascar Brazobán to the White Sox. The Yankees acquired outfielder Heliot Ramos from the Giants to add depth to their outfield. The Pirates acquired reliever Camilo Doval from the Yankees to bolster their bullpen. Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta arranged a meeting between Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor to help them work through their disconnected relationship. The Brewers traded rookie right-hander Brandon Sproat after acquiring veteran starter Dustin May.

Other Team and Player News

In other news Jacob de Grom, expressed his desire to remain with the Texas Rangers, telling reporters he "wants to be here" before the trade deadline. Brewers ace Misiorowski criticized the Angel Stadium pitching mound, calling it "awful" and a potential injury risk. Red Sox are expecting catcher Willson Contreras back in the lineup after he underwent concussion testing. Diamondbacks and Guardians had a tense moment when Arizona's Tim Tawa attempted to bunt to break up a perfect game bid, a decision Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo defended. Spain's World Cup hero Torres is scheduled to throw out the first pitch at Yankee Stadium. Carlos Correa's recovery from ankle surgery is progressing well, and he has not ruled out a return this season for the Astros.