MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: September 24, 2026, 2:11 PM ET

Playoff Races & Wild-Card Picture

The final days of the 2026 regular season are here, and ESPN’s latest MLB Power Rankings break down where every contender and hopeful stands. The Yankees are preparing for a postseason push without their captain, as Aaron Judge stated he intends to be available for Game 1 of the wild-card series. Meanwhile, Cubs manager Craig Counsell argued that his team faces a disadvantage after a schedule change against the Red Sox.

Injury Updates & Roster Moves

The Red Sox suffered a setback when Ceddanne Rafaela injured his hamstring in his return from the injured list, and he is now set to undergo an MRI. The Braves are getting healthier, activating setup man Robert Suarez targeting two appearances ahead of the playoffs.

Contract & Future Talk

Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is standing by his recent contract comments, saying “What I said is the way I feel.” Teammate Max Scherzer also indicated that an announcement on his future is likely in the next day or two.

Season Grades & Milestones

ESPN has issued regular-season grades for all 30 teams, evaluating performance from October hopefuls to those packing for the offseason. Yankees rookie Ben Rice surpassed manager Aaron Boone’s spring training prediction of 39 homers, slugging his 40th and 41st home runs.