MLB Baseball 3 Hours

Last updated: April 1, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

AL CENTRAL & CY YOUNG WINNERS

The Houston Astros continued their torrid start by sweeping the Boston Red Sox on Thursday, securing a 6-4 victory that followed an earlier confrontation where the Astros forced the Red Sox to "pay" after an intentional hit-by-pitch incident involving Boston starter Brennan Crochet. Elsewhere in strong pitching performances, reigning NL Cy Young winner Paul Skenes found the win column, allowing just one run and striking out five over five innings as the Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Reds 8-3 Wednesday. Meanwhile, Atlanta's Chris Sale overcame illness, tossing six dominant frames allowing only a single baserunner to lead the Braves past the Athletics despite dealing with what he described as feeling "sick as a dog".

SEASON FIRSTS & INJURY UPDATES

History was made in Baltimore as catcher Samuel Basallo became the first major leaguer to secure a game victory using a successful challenge via the Automated Ball-Strike System, ending the contest on that specific technicality. In contrast to the success stories, the Kansas City Royals suffered a major blow with All-Star closer Carlos Estevez, who led the majors last season with 42 saves, landing on the injured list due to a left foot contusion. Separately, the New York Yankees are anticipating Luis Gil's return to the rotation around mid-April following a start at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, as manager Aaron Boon indicated the right-hander missed the initial rotation cut.

SHUTOUTS & COMPLETE GAMES

The Miami Marlins posted a dominant 10-0 shutout against the White Sox, highlighted by Sandy Alcantara throwing the first complete game of the 2026 season, requiring only 93 pitches to achieve the feat. This efficiency stands in sharp contrast to the attrition often seen in modern pitching efforts, showcasing Alcantara's command early in the year.