MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: September 4, 2026, 10:49 PM ET

Dodgers, Ohtani Concerns Mount

Shohei Ohtani remained out of the Dodgers' lineup for a second consecutive game Friday, dealing with biceps, knee, and neck issues that have left the club hopeful an IL stint won't be necessary after he struck out four times in a 10-inning loss to St. Louis. The two-way star was given Thursday off after appearing physically uncomfortable, and the team has designated him day-to-day for now. But the bigger question looms over October: with Ohtani too unhealthy to pitch in two months, could the Dodgers risk his bat for a postseason mound appearance? The full dilemma facing L.A. extends beyond his hitting, as his value as a starter could alter the entire playoff rotation.

Historic Feat, Debuts, and Returns

Cleveland's Brayan Rocchio delivered one of the rarest performances in MLB history on Friday, becoming just the sixth player to hit a grand slam and a walk-off home run in the same game. In San Diego, the Padres' top prospect made his big-league debut Wednesday at 20 years, 93 days old, and became the youngest catcher since Ivan Rodriguez — Ethan Salas is now just, drawing raves as he starts behind the plate. The White Sox were also upbeat on returns as they activated catcher Kyle Teel, out since July with a high ankle sprain, part of an injury-plagued season for Chicago. Meanwhile, the Pirates' rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin, who is hopeful for a Friday return from the 60-day IL, was officially activated when Pittsburgh opened a three-game series against the Angels.

Rutschman's Return and Outlook

In a homecoming that went sideways for Baltimore, Red Sox catcher Adley Rutschman was cheered in his return to Camden Yards and then celebrated by clubbing two home runs, one in the first and one in the sixth, as he greeted his former teammates with a night to forget for the Orioles. The broader league picture shows a brutal reality: 12 fallen stars of 2026 — from injuries to poor play — have dramatically changed their clubs' fortunes, and their declining performance has been felt all season. The most complex story, of course, remains the Angels' impending sale: Arte Moreno's 23-year reign ends, and what Stan Kroenke might bring to Anaheim — and how it affects Mike Trout's future — looms larger than any single win, potentially reshaping the entire AL West race.

Spring, Schmerang, and the Tournament

Amid ongoing labor tension, MLB has announced spring training will begin on Feb. 19, but only if there's labor peace before pitchers and catchers report. Fans looking at October need the full picture: the current playoff matchups and clinching scenarios are set, but with so many contenders battered by injuries, the bracket could shift dramatically heading into the final stretch.