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Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Friday, July 17

Dean Kremer to Face Astros in Second-Half Series Opener

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RHP Dean Kremer (1-2) is slated to start for the Baltimore Orioles in Friday's series opener against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park. Kremer will be opposed by Astros starter Peter Lambert as the Orioles look to kick off the second half of the season on the road.

Peter Lambert Set to Start Second-Half Opener Against Orioles

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RHP Peter Lambert is scheduled to take the mound for the Astros in their second-half opener against the Baltimore Orioles at Daikin Park. Lambert, who holds an 8-5 record, was the team's most consistent starting pitcher throughout the first half of the 2026 season. He will face off against Orioles RHP Dean Kremer in the first game of the three-game series.

Brandon Woodruff Faces Concerning Shoulder Injury Prognosis

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The outlook for Brandon Woodruff’s right shoulder injury is concerning, according to Brewers manager Pat Murphy. Murphy stated on Friday that the current prognosis for the pitcher's recovery "isn't good." The team is expected to provide further updates as they continue to evaluate the severity of the injury and determine the appropriate course of action for his rehabilitation.

Clarke Schmidt Monitored as Part of Yankees Injury Report

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Clarke Schmidt is currently being evaluated as part of the Yankees' injury updates provided by manager Aaron Boone. Ahead of Friday's game against the Dodgers, the team is assessing the status of several players on the mend. Schmidt's progress remains a point of interest as the Yankees look to manage their roster depth during the second half of the season.

Giancarlo Stanton Included in Yankees Injury Evaluation

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Giancarlo Stanton is among the group of injured Yankees players currently being monitored by the team. Manager Aaron Boone provided updates on several players, including Stanton, prior to Friday's series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Further details regarding his specific recovery timeline and status remain part of the team's ongoing injury assessment.

Max Scherzer Rehab Assignment Paused After Injections

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Max Scherzer's rehab assignment for his back injury has been paused. The veteran pitcher received three cortisone injections in his right thumb on Monday, necessitating a temporary halt to his recovery program. Further updates on his status will be provided as he recovers from the procedure.

Kyle Harrison Targets Saturday Bullpen Session

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Kyle Harrison, currently recovering from an elbow injury, underwent an MRI during the All-Star break. He is now aiming to throw a bullpen session on Saturday as part of his progression toward returning to the mound.

Brewer Hicklen Returns to Braves Lineup

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Brewer Hicklen returns to the Atlanta Braves lineup for tonight's game against the Texas Rangers. He is set to take over right field duties as the Braves resume their schedule with the same roster that concluded the first half of the season.

Corey Seager Progresses to Light Running

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Corey Seager is making progress in his recovery from a back injury. He was observed doing some light running on the field ahead of Friday's game against the Atlanta Braves, marking a positive step in his return to action.

Alfredo Duno Featured in MLB Futures Game Spotlight

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Alfredo Duno was a featured participant in the recent MLB Futures Game. The performance has drawn attention, prompting questions regarding fan engagement and viewership of the event. As a member of the Cincinnati Reds organization, Duno's involvement in the showcase highlights his status as a player of interest within the league's developmental landscape.

Dylan Crews Key to Washington Nationals' Second-Half Success

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Dylan Crews has been identified as a critical player for the Washington Nationals, with expectations for him to deliver a big second half of the 2026 season. Alongside teammates CJ Abrams and Daylen Lile, Crews is tasked with increasing his production down the stretch. His performance is considered vital to the team's goals, as the Nationals look for significant contributions from these core players to improve their trajectory.

Daylen Lile Targeted for Increased Second-Half Production

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Daylen Lile is one of three Washington Nationals players highlighted as needing a strong performance during the second half of the 2026 season. Alongside teammates CJ Abrams and Dylan Crews, Lile is expected to step up and produce down the stretch. The team is looking for improved output from these players to bolster their standing as they navigate the remainder of the schedule.

CJ Abrams Faces Critical Second-Half Performance Stretch

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As the Washington Nationals look toward the remainder of the 2026 season, CJ Abrams has been identified as a key player who needs to produce significant results down the stretch. Along with teammates Dylan Crews and Daylen Lile, Abrams is under pressure to elevate his performance to help the team's outlook. The specific reasons for this necessity vary, but his contributions are viewed as essential for the Nationals' success in the second half.

Clay Holmes Begins Rehab Assignment Saturday

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New York Mets right-hander Clay Holmes (fibula) is set to begin a rehab assignment with High-A Brooklyn this Saturday. The organization is closely monitoring his progress as they evaluate their roster and personnel strategy ahead of the MLB trade deadline. Holmes remains a key point of interest for the team as he works toward his return to the active roster.

Edouard Julien Contributes to Second Base Depth

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Edouard Julien has been recognized for his contributions at second base, helping to fill the position effectively for the Colorado Rockies during the 2026 season.

Willi Castro Provides Stability at Second Base

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In the 2026 mid-season state of the position review for second base, Willi Castro has been highlighted for his solid performance in filling the role for the Colorado Rockies.

Giants Evaluating Roster Amidst Luis Castillo Trade Speculation

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As the San Francisco Giants look toward long-term retooling for the 2027 and 2028 seasons, speculation has emerged regarding potential trade targets, including Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Luis Castillo. The Giants are currently in an evaluation phase, moving beyond simply playing out the string, as they assess their personnel needs and potential acquisitions to bolster their future competitive outlook.

Connelly Early Begins Throwing Program Amid Rotation Concerns

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Boston Red Sox pitcher Connelly Early has officially begun a throwing program this week as he works his way back from an elbow injury. The organization has been closely monitoring his health status, as his availability is considered vital for the stability of a Red Sox rotation that is currently nearing a breaking point. The team is looking for continued positive progress to ensure the pitching staff can handle the demands of the remainder of the schedule.

Pete Crow-Armstrong Surges as Top MVP Challenger to Shohei Ohtani

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After correcting a mechanical issue, Chicago Cubs star Pete Crow-Armstrong has emerged as a premier MVP challenger to Shohei Ohtani. By successfully increasing his walk rate and reducing his chase rate, he has solidified his status as one of baseball's best, earning the number two spot in recent top 50 MLB player rankings for 2026. He is also featured as a top home run prop bet for the July 17 slate of games.

Ranger Suarez Could Be Activated From Injured List Tuesday

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Ranger Suarez's health has become a primary concern for the Boston Red Sox as the team works to maintain rotation integrity during the 2026 season. Interim manager Chad Tracy provided a positive update Friday, noting that Suarez's stint on the 15-day injured list due to a groin issue should be short-term. Suarez is currently on track to be activated when first eligible this coming Tuesday, providing a much-needed boost to the Red Sox pitching staff as they navigate mid-season pressure.