MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 11:31 PM ET

MLB Power Rankings and All-Star Buzz

Miami's impressive run sees them debut at their highest ranking of 2026, while the Padres' struggles continue, according to ESPN's latest MLB Power Rankings stand. Ahead of the midseason break, these rankings assess which teams are heating up and which are cooling down. In All-Star news, Bryce Harper of the Philadelphia Phillies will compete in the Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park, with Cardinals' Jordan Walker also joining the event. Red Sox slugger Willson Contreras from seven games to five, allowing him to participate in both the All-Star Game and the Home Run Derby. However, Red Sox pitcher Ranger Suarez will miss the All-Star Game due to a left groin strain, landing him on the 15-day injured list.

Player News and Injury Updates

Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe strongly denied a report suggesting he refused a move to second base earlier this season, calling the since-retracted story "B.S." Aaron Judge is set to have his injured rib imaged during the All-Star break as the Yankees remain cautious, hoping for positive healing results for the three-time AL MVP is healing. Athletics outfielder Zack Gelof left the game on Thursday night after appearing to injure his right knee while making a sliding catch. The White Sox expect Munetaka Murakami to return to the lineup Friday after being sidelined by a strained right hamstring is expected. Mets' Mark Vientos is headed to the injured list after fracturing his right hand when he was hit by a pitch Thursday is headed. The Brewers announced that an MRI revealed a new injury to Brandon Woodruff's shoulder capsule, and they are seeking a second opinion after an initial diagnosis of inflammation revealed.

Managerial Interest and Retirements

With the Phillies in strong playoff contention heading into the All-Star break, interim manager Don Mattingly expressed interest in leading the club full-time. In a significant announcement, three-time Cy Young winner and 2011 AL MVP Justin Verlander, the oldest active player in the majors at, plans to retire after the 2026 season. Alan Porter has been named the umpire crew chief and will call balls and strikes for Tuesday's All-Star Game in Philadelphia will be. ESPN's analysis also explores dream trade deadline additions for every World Series hopeful, including potential moves within the NL East make.

Pitching Highlights and Setbacks

Dylan Cease of the Blue Jays took a no-hitter into the ninth inning on Wednesday before the Giants' Heliot Ramos broke it up with a single.