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12 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: July 3, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

AL Central Shake-Up & Player News

The Tampa Bay Rays climbed to the AL's top spot, displacing the New York Yankees, while the Miami Marlins cracked the top 10 in the latest power rankings. In player news, the Chicago Cubs recalled left-hander Drew Pomeranz from Triple-A Iowa before Friday's game against the Cardinals and optioned left-handed pitcher Jordan Wicks to the farm club. The Cardinals, meanwhile, reinstated right-hander Ryne Stanek from the paternity list ahead of their matchup with Chicago, optioning righty Gordon Graceffo to Triple-A Memphis. In a surprising move, the Atlanta Braves signed outfielder Andrew McCutchen to a minor league contract Friday, seeking veteran offensive support. Adding to the pitching news, the Yankees placed lefty Carlos Rodón on the 15-day injured list with elbow inflammation.

All-Star Futures & Trade Deadline Buzz

Milwaukee Brewers ace Jacob Misiorowski's All-Star Game status is in doubt due to his pitching schedule, as he is slated to start the Sunday before the break, making him ineligible to pitch two nights later. As the All-Star break approaches, Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani is expected to be in the lineup for his Friday pitching start against the Padres, with Dalton Rushing set to catch him. Award predictions are also heating up, with Colson Montgomery and Ohtani leading NL MVP races. With the trade deadline a month away, speculation is mounting about players like Tarik Skubal, Luis Arraez, and Freddy Peralta potentially finishing the season with new clubs amid ongoing trade discussions. June's performance review shows winners and losers from the past month, with anticipation building for the jam-packed weeks ahead.

Special Uniforms and Ballpark Fare

As the Fourth of July approaches, MLB teams will be donning newly designed uniforms featuring special stars-and-stripes themes for all games on July 4th. Ballparks across the league are also preparing for the holiday with special menu items, with notable offerings ranging from the Los Angeles Dodgers to the Washington Nationals highlighting unique Fourth of July food.