Baseball Buzz: Injuries, Trades, and Pitching Updates
Ronald Acuna Jr.'s Injury Concerns
Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuna Jr. is heading back to Atlanta for an MRI on his right Achilles tendon. Already on the injured list, Acuna has a history of injuries, including ACL tears in 2021 and 2024. Since returning in May, he's been on fire:
- Batting Average: .309
- On-Base Percentage: .430
- Slugging Percentage: .582
- Home Runs: 14 in 54 games
Chicago Cubs Updates
Ian Happ, the Cubs' left fielder, left yesterday's game after fouling a ball off his shin. X-rays showed no breaks, but he might still hit the injured list. Meanwhile, Moises Ballesteros, a catcher and designated hitter, is expected to be called up to the majors. He'll likely take over as the designated hitter, with Seiya Suzuki covering left field.
Trade Deadline Drama
Adrian Houser, a right-handed pitcher for the White Sox, is set to make what might be his final start for the team tonight. The Phillies and Taijuan Walker (3.84 ERA) are looking to win the series after last night's game. With the trade deadline tomorrow, Houser might not make that start.
Other pitchers who might be traded before their next start:
- Zack Littell (Rays)
- Cal Quantrill (Marlins)
- Jeffrey Springs (A's)
- MacKenzie Gore (Nationals)
MacKenzie Gore is a long shot to be moved.
Bright Spot: Chris Paddack's Debut
Chris Paddack is set to make his first start for the Detroit Tigers today. Acquired from the Twins earlier this week along with Randy Dobnak, Paddack's first opponent as a Tiger will be Ryne Nelson, a left-handed pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks, who has a 3.29 ERA this season.