MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: April 21, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

NL East Woes & Roster Moves

The New York Mets continued their freefall, returning home to Queens only to see their losing streak extend to 12 games, leaving them anchored in last place in the National League East. While the offense is expected to receive an immediate lift Wednesday with outfielder Juan Soto returning from the IL, the team’s pitching staff faces immediate strain after starter Sonny Gray was placed on the 15-day IL by the Boston Red Sox due to a right hamstring strain; Gray, acquired in a November trade from St. Louis, faces a minimum absence, further complicating divisional races.

AL Central & West Injury Updates

Across the American League, teams are beginning to see key personnel return from the injured list, though some absences persist. The Minnesota Twins activated third baseman Royce Lewis after he missed nine games nursing a sprained left knee, providing a boost to their infield depth. Concurrently, the Seattle Mariners made a minor roster adjustment, designating right-hander Casey Legumina for assignment and recalling Alex Hoppe from Triple-A, with Hoppe having been acquired from the Boston Red Sox in a November transaction.

Pitching Returns & Personal News

As rosters stabilize, several aces are slated for imminent returns, though one veteran absence is drawing significant attention. Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler is scheduled for his first start since last August on Saturday against the Atlanta Braves, a critical injection into the struggling Phillies rotation. Separately, in personal news unrelated to on-field performance, Freddie & Chelsea Freeman announced the birth of their fourth child, their first daughter.