MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 8:31 PM ET

MLB PLAYER MOVEMENT & INJURIES

The New York Mets are set to welcome back infielder Jorge Polanco rejoining the lineup after a nearly three-month absence due to right wrist and left Achilles injuries. Conversely, the Minnesota Twins have placed center fielder Byron Buxton on the 10-day injured list due to a lingering hip issue that has troubled him for much of the season, aggravating the injury. In Pittsburgh, rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin has been placed back on the injured list with a finger injury, sideling the Pirates' infielder. The Houston Astros have optioned right-handed pitcher Mike Burrows to Triple-A Sugar Land following a difficult outing where he allowed 10 runs, sending Burrows down.

PROSPECT CALL-UPS & SUSPENSIONS

Outfield prospect Luis Lara, has been called up by the Milwaukee Brewers ahead of their doubleheader with the Cardinals, joining the active roster after a seven-year deal. Meanwhile, Nationals pitcher Cade Cavalli's suspension for his role in a brawl at Boston has been reduced on appeal, lessening the penalty.

HOME RUN DERBY FIELD TAKES SHAPE

The field for the upcoming MLB Home Run Derby in Philadelphia is beginning to solidify, with sluggers being announced for the July 13 event. New York Yankees first baseman Ben Rice, who leads his team with 25 home runs, will compete in the derby. Further details on the matchups and participants are expected as the event draws closer, with an analysis of the likely contenders already published, breaking down the field.

TEAM PERFORMANCE & CLOSER NOTES

Midseason grades for all MLB clubs reveal a spectrum of performances, from teams exceeding expectations to those faltering in the first half of the season, assigning grades to clubs. In fantasy baseball circles, attention is being paid to closer stock, with analysis available on which relievers are recommended for addition or dropping, advising fantasy managers.

RECENT GAME RECAPS & PLAYER MILESTONES

The Los Angeles Dodgers secured their 60th win of the season in their first extra-innings game, with Dalton Rushing delivering a walk-off single in the 11th inning, winning in extra innings. Reliever Evan Phillips has returned to the Dodgers' bullpen 13 months after undergoing Tommy John surgery, reinstated from IL. Philadelphia ace Cristopher Sanchez endured a difficult outing, allowing a career-worst nine earned runs in just 3 1/3 innings during the Phillies' 15-1 loss to Kansas City, allowing nine runs. Cam Schlittler bounced back from a previous loss, pitching eight innings for the second time this season as the New York Yankees defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 5-1, pitching eight strong innings. Veteran outfielder Max Kepler hit his first home run since the end of his 80-game suspension, leading the Arizona Diamondbacks to an 8-0 victory over the San Diego Padres, homering post-suspension.

ALL-STAR GAME CONSIDERATIONS

With MLB All-Star Game rosters announced, analysis is underway regarding which notable players were selected and which deserving stars will be absent from the Philadelphia festivities, examining snubs and takeaways.