MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: August 4, 2026, 5:32 PM ET

Trade Deadline Shakeups and Roster Moves

The Los Angeles Dodgers are now the favorites to win the World Series after acquiring pitcher Tarik Skubal on Saturday. Skubal, who stated he doesn't "really sympathize with people that blame the Dodgers for anything they've done," noted that "Every team could trade for me." With the trade deadline now passed, the Dodgers are significantly ahead of the New York Yankees, who are the next closest team on the World Series odds board. Red Sox made a significant move by acquiring three-time All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman from the Baltimore Orioles, a major transaction among Boston's deadline day dealings. Bryce Harper, who hit a home run in Monday night's 6-3 victory over the Washington Nationals, is slated to move to right field for the remainder of the season following his team's acquisition of three-time All-Star Luis Arraez. The Chicago Cubs bolstered their pitching staff by acquiring right-hander Clay Holmes and outfielder Tyrone Taylor from the Mets in exchange for infielder Jefferson Rojas on Monday.

Player Milestones and Contract Extensions

Spain's World Cup hero, a player who became the second substitute ever to score the winning goal in a men's World Cup final, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Yankee Stadium. This follows in the footsteps of Germany's Mario Götze, who achieved a similar feat in 2014. In other roster news, Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a strained thumb. Additionally, left-hander Springs has been moved to the 15-day injured list with hip discomfort. Colorado Rockies left fielder Mickey Moniak, who is currently batting .277 with 18 home runs and 49 RBIs this season, has agreed to a two-year contract extension through the 2028 season. Yankees top prospect George Lombard Jr. is scheduled to make his major league debut against the Cardinals on Tuesday, following the optioning of shortstop Anthony Volpe to Triple-A.

Player Loyalty and Future Outlook

Two-time Cy Award winner Jacob de Grom, at 38 years old, informed the Texas Rangers before Monday's trade deadline that he wished to remain with the 55-57 team. He expressed his desire to stay, telling reporters at Globe Life Field, "I want to be here." Amidst speculation of an impending trade, the two-time Cy Young winner reportedly focused on maintaining normalcy. The 2026 trade deadline has now passed, with various teams making impactful moves. Fantasy baseball managers should consider picking up a pair of Detroit Tigers players who are now available following the trade involving Skubal. The article highlights who succeeded and who faltered during this period of player movement.