MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 5:31 PM ET

Trade Deadline Buzz Heats Up as Teams Assess Needs

The MLB trade deadline is fast approaching, and several prominent clubs find themselves in need of reinforcements. The New York and Red Sox, along with the Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago Cubs, are among the teams that require action before the Monday deadline. Phillies star Bryce Harper has been candid about his team's struggles, stating they "" as they've gone 3-8 since the All-Star break. Meanwhile, the Marlins demonstrated their comeback potential by rallying from a 6-0 deficit to defeat the Phillies, securing their 21st such victory this season thanks to a go-ahead pinch-hit homer by Griffin Conine in the eighth inning. Wish lists for both the Yankees and Mets have been compiled, with speculation ranging from potential acquisitions in Queens to discussions about Mason Miller heading to the Bronx.

Injury Concerns Mount for Key Players

Several notable players have recently exited games due to injury, adding to the pre-deadline drama. Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton and was forced to leave Tuesday's 3-2 victory over the Royals in the fifth inning. Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. also departed his to the Nationals with tightness in his right hamstring. In a more unusual situation, Giants center fielder Harrison Bader is awaiting evaluation after a scooter crash reportedly caused further damage to an already injured left foot.

Pitching Updates and Player Milestones

In pitching news, the mound return of Shohei Ohtani for the Dodgers remains in question as other key players like Enrique Hernandez, Edwin Diaz, Blake Snell, Will Smith, and Tyler Gasnow continue to get healthier. On a positive note for the Tigers, ace Tarik Skubal is still scheduled to start Wednesday against the Orioles, as confirmed by manager A.J. Hinch, despite the looming trade deadline. Skubal received standing during his start on Wednesday after recording his 1,000th career strikeout, in what could potentially be his final appearance for Detroit. In a less auspicious outing, former Cy Young winner Shane Bieber, now with the Toronto Blue Jays to nine batters faced in the first inning of his start on Tuesday. The league is also grappling with a significant rise in hit batters, a trend attributed to increased pitcher velocity, reduced control, and a new "just wear it" mentality among hitters. Fans can also delve into the story of Shohei Ohtani's interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, by listening to the "The Betrayal of Shohei Ohtani" podcast from 30 for 30 Podcasts.