MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: August 4, 2026, 8:32 PM ET

Trade Deadline Buzz and Roster Moves

The Red Sox made a significant splash at the trade deadline, acquiring three-time All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman from the Baltimore Orioles. Rutschman expressed that he is simply trying to fit in with the red-hot Red Sox team that has been on a roll over the last month. The acquisition of Rutschman was one of several deadline moves for Boston, which general manager Mike Breslow stated the surging club deserved. In another notable deal, the injury-depleted Cubs acquired right-hander Clay Holmes and outfielder Tyrone Taylor from the Mets in exchange for infielder Jefferson Rojas on Monday.

Pitching News and Injury Updates

The Dodgers are now considered strong favorites to win the World Series after acquiring pitcher Tarik Skubal on Saturday. Skubal, who was traded from the Tigers, stated that he doesn't "really sympathize with people that blame the Dodgers for anything they've done," adding that "Every team could trade for me." Meanwhile, Padres pitcher Nick Pivetta walked off the mound mid-inning during his first rehab outing since April 14, appearing to have sustained another injury. Nationals All-Star outfielder James Wood has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a left oblique strain. Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz was also placed on the 10-day IL with a strained thumb, while left-hander Jeffrey Springs landed on the 15-day IL due to hip discomfort.

Player Returns and Lineup Changes

Royals All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. was activated from the injured list Tuesday after missing two weeks with back tightness. Cardinals All-Star right fielder Jordan Walker was scratched from the starting lineup Tuesday night against the Yankees due to right knee inflammation. Yankees top prospect George Lombard Jr. is set to make his major league debut against the Cardinals on Tuesday. This comes after the Yankees optioned shortstop Anthony Volpe to Triple-A. Bryce Harper of the Phillies will move to right field for the remainder of the season following his club's acquisition of Luis Arraez.

Contract Extensions and Player Loyalty

Rockies left fielder Mickey Moniak has agreed to a two-year contract extension through 2028. Moniak is currently hitting .277 with 18 home runs and 49 RBIs this season. Two-time Cy Young Award winner Jacob de Grom, expressed his desire to remain with the Texas Rangers before Monday's trade deadline. DeGrom told reporters that "I want to be here" with the 55-57 team.

Notable Homages and Historical Notes

World Cup hero Torres is scheduled to throw out the first pitch at Yankee Stadium. Torres became the second-ever substitute to score the winning goal in a men's World Cup final, following Germany's Mario Götze in 2014.