MLB’s Stretch Run Will Be Defined By Labor, Stadiums, and Stars

The 2026 MLB All-Star Game was held in Philadelphia at Citizens Bank Park, featuring a Declaration of Independence-themed ceremony and a Home Run Derby, with fans notably booing any player or mascot without a local connection. With the All-Star break now over, the second half of the MLB season will be dominated by three major storylines: stalled labor negotiations between team owners and the MLB Players Association over collective bargaining, stadium developments, and the health of key stars. The MLBPA, which has long resisted a salary cap, claims it is more united than ever as both sides remain far apart on proposals.