MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 8:31 AM ET

Trade Deadline Buzz Intensifies as Contenders Eye Upgrades

With the Aug. 3 trade deadline looming, several clubs are reportedly making moves and assessing their. The Yankees and Mets, in particular, are speculated to be active in Queens and the Bronx, with reports suggesting potential targets like Mason Miller. Across the league, teams like the Phillies and Cubs are identified as desperate to make a significant splash. National League contenders such as the Brewers and Braves are also facing deadline decisions, with the Dodgers remaining a benchmark for success. Bryce Harper of the Phillies acknowledged his team "needs some help", as Philadelphia has gone 3-8 since the All-Star break.

Injury Concerns and Pitching Woes Surface for Several Teams

Several key players have. Giants center fielder Harrison Bader is awaiting evaluation after a scooter crash exacerbated an existing foot injury. In Boston, new infielder Curtis Mead during his debut, according to tests conducted Tuesday. For the Minnesota Twins, outfielder Byron Buxton and exited Tuesday's victory in the fifth inning. On the pitching front, Blue Jays pitcher Shane Bieber, a former Cy Young winner in just two-thirds of an inning during his Tuesday start, including three with the bases loaded.

Ace Pitchers Scheduled as Deadline Approaches

As the trade deadline approaches, some teams are relying on their top arms. Tigers manager A.J. Hinch confirmed that ace Tarik Skubal is still slated to start Wednesday against the Orioles. Meanwhile, speculation about potential blockbuster trades continues to swirl, with discussions around pitchers like Skubal and Mason Miller being highlighted as potential game-changers. The league is also observing a rise in hit batters, with a new philosophy seemingly encouraging players to "just wear it."