MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: August 5, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

Dodgers Bolster Rotation with Skubal Acquisition

The Los Angeles Dodgers have significantly strengthened their pitching staff by acquiring ace Tarik Skubal in a blockbuster trade. Skubal, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, made his Dodgers debut on Tuesday, though he did not have his best outing, throwing only 51 strikes on 85 pitches. Despite the imperfect debut, the Dodgers were still favored to win the World Series, with Skubal's addition making them a dominant force. Skubal himself does not sympathize with criticism of the Dodgers' moves, stating that "Every team could trade for me." The Tigers' president defended the timing of the Skubal trade, arguing that "That's not how markets for the top players work." Some fantasy baseball players are looking to add Tigers prospects following the Skubal trade.

Trade Deadline Activity and Roster Moves

The MLB trade deadline saw numerous teams making moves to improve their rosters for the stretch run and beyond. The New York Yankees, despite some fan questioning about a lack of a major splash, acquired infielder Luis Garcia Jr. from the Nationals for four right-handed pitchers. They also acquired outfielder Heliot Ramos from the Giants to bolster their outfield depth. The Yankees also saw George Lombard Jr. homer in his debut, a night when his brother also hit a home run in his professional debut. Red Sox were active, acquiring three-time All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman from the Orioles, a move manager Alex Cora felt the surging team deserved. Rutschman stated he is "trying to fit in" with the red-hot Red Sox. The Philadelphia Phillies acquired three-time batting champion Luis Arraez from the Giants, moving Bryce Harper to right field for the remainder of the season. The Phillies also acquired left-handed reliever Brooks Raley from the Mets. The Brewers acquired pitchers Dustin May and JoJo Romero from the Cardinals, which led to rookie Brandon Sproat being sent to Triple-A.

Pitching Injuries and Setbacks

Pitchers experienced injuries and setbacks during this period. Padres right-handed pitcher Nick Pivetta exited his rehab outing with minor tightness in his right elbow. Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing has a slight tear in the UCL of his right elbow, confirmed by follow-up testing. Jays pitcher Trey Yesavage left his start after only two innings due to left knee discomfort. Nationals All-Star James Wood was placed on the 10-day injured list with a left oblique strain. Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz was placed on the 10-day IL with a strained thumb and will see a hand specialist. Left-hander Jeffrey Springs was placed on the 15-day IL with hip discomfort. Brewers ace Jacob Misiorowski called the Angel Stadium pitching mound "awful" and a potential injury risk.

Other Notable Roster Moves and Player News

The Seattle Mariners released veteran catcher Mitch Garver and outfielder Rob Refsnyder, along with making seven other roster moves. The Mariners also acquired outfielder Taylor Ward from the Orioles to add a right-handed bat. The Pittsburgh Pirates released veteran designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, who was hitting .203 with eight home runs. The Pirates also acquired reliever Camilo Doval from the Yankees to bolster their bullpen. The Cardinals scratched All-Star right fielder Jordan Walker from the lineup due to right knee inflammation. The Royals activated All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. from the injured list after he missed two weeks with back tightness. The Rangers are set to have left-hander Cody Bradford make his first start since the 2024 season. Two-time Cy Award winner Jacob de Grom told the Rangers he wanted to stay with the team prior to the trade deadline. The Astros acquired center fielder Daulton Varsho from the Blue Jays. Carlos Correa's recovery from ankle surgery is progressing well, and he has not ruled out a return this season. The Braves acquired outfielder Lane Thomas and minor league left-hander Bailey Falter from the Royals. The Braves also traded for veteran pitcher Tyler Mahle from the Giants. The Guardians acquired left-hander Foster Griffin and outfielder Jo Adell from the Nationals. The Angels traded outfielder Jo Adell to the Guardians for catching prospect Jacob Cozart. White Sox acquired right-handed pitcher Luis Castillo from the Mariners. White Sox also acquired reliever Huascar Brazobán from the Mets. The Rays acquired Freddy Peralta from the Mets to improve their rotation. The Blue Jays are acquiring right-hander Jose Soriano from the Angels. The Mets traded relief pitcher Luke Weaver to the Pirates. The Cubs acquired right-hander Clay Holmes and outfielder Tyrone Taylor from the Mets. Rockies Mickey Moniak reached a contract extension through 2028. World Cup Ferran Torres will throw out the first pitch at Yankee Stadium.