MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: September 4, 2026, 2:52 PM ET

Dodgers' Two-Way Dilemma

Shohei Ohtani got the day off Thursday after appearing physically uncomfortable while striking out four times a night earlier, with lingering biceps and neck issues clouding his status. The larger question facing Los Angeles: whether Ohtani pitches in October, given he hasn't been healthy enough to pitch in two months—and whether his postseason value on the mound is worth risking his elite bat. The pitching staff took another hit as Eric Lauer landedon the injured list with left elbow inflammation following a rough outing.

Angels Under New Ownership

Stan Kroenke has reached an agreement to acquire controlling interest in the Los Angeles Angels from Arte Moreno for a record $4 billion, sources said. The sale comes as Pittsburgh rookie Konnor Griffin feels good and hopes to be activated off the 60-day IL on Friday when the Pirates open a three-game series against the Angels.

Historic Debut & Return

Padres top prospect Ethan Salas became the youngest player to catch in an MLB game since Ivan Rodriguez, making his debut Wednesday night at 20 years, 93 days old. In Boston, Adley Rutschman greeted his former Orioles teammates with homersin the first and sixth innings in his return to Camden Yards.

Playoff Picture & Fallen Stars

With the postseason race tightening, our playoff tracker covers current matchups, league races, and the full schedule. A deeper look at 12 fallen starsof 2026—from Cal Raleigh to others hampered by injuries or sharp declines—reveals how their struggles dramatically impacted their clubs' fortunes this season.