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13 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

National League East Struggles and Trade Deadline Buzz

The Philadelphia Phillies are facing a critical juncture as they have dropped nine of their last 12 games since the All-Star break. Interim manager Don Mattingly stated that "now's the time that we're going to find out what we're made of" amidst the team's slump and need for reinforcements. This sentiment was echoed by star player Bryce Harper, who candidly admitted the Phillies "need some help" as the Monday trade deadline approaches. Adding to their woes, the Marlins to defeat the Phillies, with Griffin Conine hitting a go-ahead homer in the eighth inning to secure their 21st come-from-behind victory of the season. Meanwhile, the Mets and Yankees are among the 12 teams identified as needing significant moves by the trade deadline, with speculation ranging from a "makeover in Queens" to potential acquisitions in the Bronx.

AL Central Injuries and Player Milestones

The Minnesota Twins have been hit hard by injuries, with outfielder Byron Buxton returning to the injured list due to a right hip impingement, the same issue that sidelined him for the All-Star Game. Buxton had reaggravated the hip during Tuesday's win and exited the game in the fifth inning as the Twins secured a 3-2 victory. In the same game, Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. departed hamstring during Toronto's 8-6 loss to the Nationals. On a brighter note for the Detroit Tigers, pitcher Tarik Skubal for his 1,000th career strikeout during Wednesday's game against the Orioles, in what could potentially be his final start for the team.

Player Health and MLB Trends

Player availability continues to be a concern across MLB, with several key players dealing with injuries. Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino has been placed on the injured list with a sore right wrist, impacting his .232 batting average and 6 home runs. Giants center fielder Harrison Bader after aggravating an existing foot injury in a scooter accident. For the Dodgers, starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani's return to the mound remains uncertain as the team navigates the health of other key players like Enrique Hernandez, Edwin Diaz, Blake Snell, Will Smith, and Tyler Glasnow. Beyond individual injuries, MLB is also witnessing a significant rise in hit batters, with the league exploring factors such as increased velocity, inconsistent control, and a changing approach to getting hit as contributing elements.