Title rivals bring upgrades to first Grand Prix in Malaysia since 2017 on a demanding but well liked circuit
While the byzantine nomenclature of this weekend’s “Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia” will have Formula One’s statisticians muttering darkly under their breath for years to come, the import of the sport’s return to the Sepang circuit remains all too straightforward at the sharp end. Complicated only perhaps by a Red Bull resurgence and an enthused Max Verstappen, determined to make his mark on the championship run-in.
The return to Malaysia for its first race since 2017 has been welcomed in F1. It is a much-liked circuit among drivers, albeit the high temperatures and humidity make for an enormous physical challenge.
Following their 6-2 loss in Game 3 of the Wild Card series in Atlanta last night, Bryce Harper voiced a reality that he, and his teammates, were trying to avoid with one, last, deep playoff run (quotes via MLB.com).
“I’d imagine this team is going to look a lot different next year,” Harper said. “The guys that are leaving this clubhouse. We’ll see.”
Alec Bohm, Edmundo Sosa and Jose Alvarado are key free agents who are likely to leave. Others could, and should, leave in trades.
It will look different.
One could almost understand why Dave Dombrowski decided to bring back most of a roster that won 95 games, their second straight NL East title, and fell in a very close series to the eventual World Series champions. Many didn’t agree, but there was an argument to be made it was the correct decision.
That argument cannot be made any longer.
The 2026 Phillies got another year older and the team is going backwards. After running out of gas in the 2022 World Series and choking away a return trip by losing Games 6 and 7 of the 2023 NLCS at home, this group failed to get past the NLDS in ‘24 and ‘25, and now lost to a superior Atlanta Braves team in this year’s wild card series.
The reason fans are feeling less anger and more resignation following their three-game loss to the Braves is the realization that the roster simply wasn’t good enough.
They won just 88 games this year, a 7-game drop-off, their +15 run differential, only 7th-best in the National League, meant their expected won-loss record was 83-79.
They were lucky to win even 88.
They were 19th in runs scored, 22nd in OPS and dead last in OPS+. Their team-wide Wins Above Replacement (Fangraphs) among their non-pitchers was just 12.0, 26th in MLB. Only the A’s, Reds, Angels and Rockies got less from their non-pitchers. Those teams finished with 64, 75, 62 and 58 wins, respectively. The two teams ahead of them, the Giants and Mets, won 65 and 74 games. The playoff team closest to the Phillies in this metric were the Braves, whose 17.5 non-pitcher fWAR of 17.5 was 21st. They played terrible defense all season long and lacked athleticism on the bases. They also finished tied for 16th in home runs, with only two players (Schwarber and Harper) finishing with 20 or more. No team hit fewer homers in September.
But the bullpen was also a disaster. Dave Dombrowski tried to do things, like signing Brad Keller to a free agent contract as a set-up man, and added Caleb Killian and Brooks Raley at the trade deadline. Two of those guys got hurt and one was an abject failure. Returning relievers Orion Kerkering and Alvarado became utterly unusable by year’s end, and Jonathan Bowlan ran out of gas. Their 4.43 ERA ranked 21st in baseball, consistently a bottom-10 unit all season.
Still, the Phillies tried to paper their way through October masking all these deficiencies and, had they not frittered away the final week of the season, might have pulled off at least a first round upset in Atlanta.
They would not have needed Zack Wheeler to start Game 162 if the lineup hadn’t gone ice cold. Had Wheeler been able to start Game 1, perhaps Jesus Luzardo could have been employed as a reliever, and Jhoan Duran wouldn’t have been asked to come up with a 50-pitch, two-inning hold/save. Perhaps that Austin Riley homer never happens and the Phils sweep the Braves in two games.
Perhaps Aaron Nola isn’t asked to pitch on two days rest in Game 161. No one can be sure how that affected his performance in Game 3 last night, but it couldn’t have helped. And the Luzardo injury itself came at the worst possible time, forcing Don Mattingly into the Nola decision on the final Saturday of the season, jamming up the roster for the wild card round. Luis Arraez’ injury in the final week also didn’t help, although he was not very impactful during his two months with the Phillies anyway.
Dombrowski cannot fool himself into thinking his team is better than it is. He has a remarkably good starting rotation, and that is a great place to begin to rebuild a roster. The floor is already pretty high when you have Wheeler/Luzardo/Cristopher Sanchez/Andrew Painter as your 1-4. But when you’re sporting a bottom-third bullpen and the 5th-worst group of position players in the entire sport, the numbers on the paper match the psychological need to shake things up.
The players realize it, too. The team needs to be different, and it almost doesn’t matter how it happens at this point.
Dave Dombrowski is not a creative general manager. He doesn’t pull rabbits out of his hat. He’s also not great at building farm systems. Both those areas of weakness have shown up as he’s tried to cobble this roster together. This past year, almost every major move he made failed.
He failed to add a new bat to the lineup, with Bo Bichette signing with New York. He re-signed J.T. Realmuto to a three-year, $45 million contract, then watched as he turned into one of the worst hitting catchers in baseball. The Keller signing was a disaster, although not entirely his fault, and none of his trade deadline acquisitions appeared in the wild card round at all.
So what does he do? What can he do?
Everything should be on the table. Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper and Trea Turner all cannot be traded without their permission, and it’s unlikely they would give it. But, Dombrowski should be open to it if an offer comes through and the player is intrigued enough to consider moving on. Should they offer one of their big-time starting pitchers for multiple pieces at multiple positions that might help? Bryson Stott may be the best overall position player on the team, but is inconsistent at the plate and has a career .181 batting average and .515 OPS in 142 career post-season plate appearances. He may be the guy most teams ask about in trade conversations.
Brandon Marsh should be traded. Turner should be moved to center field if he can’t be moved (and he can’t). Justin Crawford looks like a solid bench outfielder, but not a big league, everyday starter. The rest of the outfield is an utter mess.
The MLB lockout that will begin on December 1 will delay all these decisions. It’s likely Alex Cora becomes the new manager before that happens (likely right after the World Series), but in terms of player changes, we’re all going to have to wait. And when the season does officially begin, it’ll be a sprint to get things done, with little time for creativity.
The Phillies will be hard-pressed to spend their way to a solvent roster, unless they move on from players who have proven that, together, they are not good enough to get it done.
The psychology of so many playoff defeats together necessitates drastic change. This was actually true last off-season, but Dombrowski didn’t want to hear it.
At least these Phillies gave us one last thrill in Game 2. And at least they made their ending quick and relatively painless with a non-competitive effort in Game 3. No hand-wringing, no what-ifs, just the hard, cold reality that they simply weren’t good enough.
The “fake it until you make it” masquerade simply couldn’t hold up any longer.
In recorded MLB history, no team has ever followed a streak of postseason performances like this, with the same roster largely intact, and gone on to win a World Series afterwards.
SAN DIEGO, CA - SEPTEMBER 29: Xander Bogaerts #2 of the San Diego Padres celebrates at home plate after hitting a solo home run in the fourth inning during Game One of the National League Wild Card Series presented by AbbVie between the Chicago Cubs and the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on Tuesday, September 29, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Well, the playoff field is set and the Red Sox are no longer in it. We’ve got White Sox-Guardians and Yankees-Rays in the American League. Braves-Dodgers and Padres-Brewers in the NL.
So the question is: who are your pulling for to win the World Series? A Brewers or Rays triumph would be a delicious entry into an offseason in which the owners are going to spend months lying about competitive balance. But maybe you want to get weird and pull for the White Sox. Maybe you’re a contrarian who thinks a 28th Yankees ring is what John Henry and FSG deserve.
As or me, the choice is easy. The Padres have been one of the most interesting and fun teams in baseball for years now. They are run by a front office that has been steadfastly dedicated to putting a winning team on a field. They are enthusiastically supported by an engaged fanbase in what is now definitively a baseball town. They’ve got Xander Bogaerts, who is still making magic in October. They’ve got Don. Let’s go, Friars.
Talk about the playoffs and whatever else you want in this space and, as always, be good to one another.
A few notes from the first three days of Knicks training camp:
BACKUP PLAN
The Knicks are looking at Drew Eubanks, James Wiseman and Tony Bradley as potential third center options during training camp.
I didn’t get the sense that there was a clear favorite heading in to camp. Before training camp, the team told some potential free agents that it was looking for a big man on the younger side. I don’t think this disqualifies Eubanks (29), Bradley (28) or Wiseman (25).
Head coach Mike Brown was asked about both Wiseman and Bradley during training camp news conferences and offered praise for both players.
BROWN ON WISEMAN, WHOM HE COACHED AT GOLDEN STATE
"Fantastic human being, fantastic young man…. Good to see him in the gym. When you’re that long and that athletic, with skill - he has skill - there’s a place for you in this league. Sometimes it takes the right moment, the right team, the right situation, all that stuff, to be able to fit someplace and grow. We have a lot of great guys in camp that have potential of impacting us in a lot of different ways throughout the course of the year. He’s definitely one of the many guys that we have that we’re excited about."
BROWN ON BRADLEY
"We’re looking for bigs. Tony’s a veteran guy that’s still in his prime and has a good feel for the game, knows how to play the game the right way and he’s hurt us in the past. To be honest, when a guy hurts you in the past, you tend to remember him more than others. So to be able to add him to camp was a positive for us because again, I said this last year, (Karl-Anthony Towns) has one of the most (challenging positions) out of everybody because I want to move him around when I play him at center. I want to play him at power forward; (when he’s at) power forward 1-4 is interchangeable. Same with OG (Anunoby). OG we put him at the 5 last year. We probably will do it a little bit more this year as well.
"But to be able to do that, you’ve gotta have enough centers around on the team, so having Tony here with his skill set and feel is definitely a blessing because we’re looking at that position heavily."
The Knicks can also trade for a third center later in the season. On the wings, I think John Konchar had a solid chance to make the opening night roster before he had to leave training camp due to personal issues. Maybe that creates a lane for Bruce Brown Jr. or Ochai Agbaji? In order to keep a veteran center and veteran wing on the regular season roster, the Knicks would have to trade one of their players on NBA deals. They’d have to do this because they are not going to spend above the second apron in team salary, according to owner James Dolan. If they changed course and decided to spend above the second apron, the Knicks would have the roster spots available to keep both a veteran big and veteran wing without making a trade.
The decision to stay below the second apron gave the Knicks very little chance of retaining Mitchell Robinson.
The Knicks made it clear they will miss Robinson but also are bullish on new backup center Andre Drummond.
"We’re not expecting Andre to come in and be Mitch or impact the game in a lot of different ways than Mitch did,” Brown said this week. “Just be yourself and everybody else has to step up and box out a little harder and come across earlier to help stop the penetration sooner, all those things that will make us a top level team. We can all do a little bit better together."
Apr 28, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Atlanta Hawks center Tony Bradley (13) drives to the basket against New York Knicks guard Jordan Clarkson (00) and center Mitchell Robinson (23) during the third quarter of game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. / Brad Penner-Imagn Images
EXTENSION APPREHENSION?
It seems unlikely at this point that the Knicks will agree to extensions with Towns, Josh Hart or Miles McBride before the regular season. There is clearly a gap between what the Knicks are offering Towns and what he’s looking for. Logically, the Knicks need to figure out Towns’ situation before they can address Hart or McBride. The club’s immediate financial future is impacted greatly by Towns’ $61 million player option for 2027-28. If he agreed to an extension, Towns would presumably decline the extension and have a lower annual salary for 2027-28.
If extensions are not signed before the season starts, I’m sure Towns, Hart and McBride will maintain the same approach to their job. But, as Hart noted, it’s only natural for contract uncertainty to impact a player’s life on or off the court.
"Once the season starts (and if no extension is reached), I’ll probably have that mentality of 'I don’t really wanna deal with this, I want to try and focus on playing the season.' (But) I’m sure there will probably be a little extra weight to the jersey," Hart said this week. "You don’t know the certainty of your situation and obviously it affects home life. There are certain things that you might want to do, but you’re like ‘I can’t, because I have no idea what the situation will be in two months, three months, four months, in a year, if I’m gonna be here or not.’ You don’t know. But hopefully, like I said, I’m a Knick, I’d love to be a Knick and I love the city."
"…At the end of the day, we’re humans and I think what sometimes gets lost is that we are people, that we all have lives and things that we have to deal with and fix," Hart said in response to a separate question later in his interview. "I wish I could sit there and say it wouldn’t have any weight or any bearing, but you never know. Some people can handle it great and some people can really struggle with it and that can kill their performance. I hope it gets done, but we’ll see." Unless the Knicks decide to exceed the second apron in team salary, it will be difficult for the club to extend all three of Towns, Hart and McBride.
To illustrate this, let’s use $75 million as a combined annual salary for the first year of Towns and Hart extensions. With this number, the Knicks would have roughly $13-$14 million in second apron space to offer McBride.
But the bigger hurdle, in my view, is the 2028-29 season.
Let’s say Jalen Brunson signs a max extension that starts in 2028-29. If you take Brunson’s deal and combine it with a total $75-$80 million in extensions for Towns and Hart, the Knicks would have around $10 million under the second apron for either McBride or another player. This number doesn’t account for an extension for OG Anunoby. Anunoby would be eligible for an extension. And obviously, that $10 million is certainly below McBride’s market value. So the Knicks have to navigate a tough situation with these extensions if they want to remain below the second apron in team salary.
To date, not much has changed on the Knicks’ side: they think very highly of Towns and want him to be a Knick for a long time. The Knicks, in earlier negotiations, offered Towns a contract with a starting number of between $45-$50 million, as SNY reported. I don’t know if they have or haven’t increased their offers to Towns. Again, everything here is based on the Knicks’ commitment to staying under the second apron.
BIGGER ROLE FOR OG?
If you’re reading this, you already know that OG Anunoby played at an incredibly high level in the playoffs. He shot 49 percent from beyond the arc across all four rounds.
Brown was effusive when asked about Anunoby’s shooting this week.
The coach said Anunoby is "not Steph (Curry) or Klay (Thompson)-level, but he's like the next tier. He's way better what I thought. His confidence is really high."
A look at the postseason numbers leads to an interesting question: will Anunoby supplant Towns as the Knicks’ clear No. 2 option on offense?
Anunoby’s usage and shots were steady across the regular season and postseason. Towns’ usage and shots dropped noticeably in the playoffs. In the Finals, Towns was preoccupied with defending Victor Wembenyama, which he did masterfully. But if Anunoby’s shooting can carry over to this regular season, it will be interesting to see if there is a shift in the Knicks’ hierarchy. Maybe Anunoby becomes New York’s No. 2 option behind Brunson?
Towns is obviously a brilliant offensive player, so this wouldn’t be about anything he can or can’t do on that end of the floor. It’s moreso about Anunoby’s growth. Brown this week mentioned the possibility of Anunoby and Mikal Bridges playing in more pick-and-roll in the coming season. He also mentioned how Anunoby’s jab step – while not exactly lightning-quick – was effective.
Given all of this, it’s worth keeping an eye on New York’s offensive hierarchy early in the season.
HART HURTING
Josh Hart will deal with intermittent pain in his shooting hand for the rest of his career. He explained on Thursday why he’ll delay surgery to repair his right finger until after retirement. When asked about it, Hart said he still has to deal with pain in the finger/hand.
"Some days it'll be it'll be good. Some days it'll hurt to catch the ball. It just, it varies. I wish I could tell you when I wake up, what's gonna be good, what's gonna be bad. But yeah, I mean, somedays it’s good like a regular functioning finger. And other days it hurts to just close my hand, to make a fist," he said.
This is obviously something the Knicks will monitor all season. Last year, Hart and the team’s approach worked well. Hart shot a career-high 41 percent from beyond the arc and hit 40 percent of his threes in the NBA Finals. Brown has been impressed by Hart – and the coaches/trainers around him – for the way they’ve handled the hand injury.
"It just shows to he is…he's tough; he's tough," Brown said this week. "But more importantly, there’s dedication there to wanting to be a great shooter, and you’ve got to put (in work to reach that level). And he puts in the work, even though his fingers bothering him, and even though it's a little crooked, you know, he's putting in the work to get it right. And, you know, (Knicks shooting coach Peter Patton) and the rest of the coaches are helping him out, and it shows. He can shoot at a high level with the dedication he has in the first place (and with assistance from the Knicks staff)."
BROOKLYN, NY - SEPTEMBER 28: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Brooklyn Nets poses for a portrait during NBA Media Day at the Brooklyn Nets HSS Training Center on September 28, 2026 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Patience is a rare currency in NBA training camps. Yet, at HSS Training Center in Sunset Park, the Brooklyn Nets have plenty of it when it comes to Mikel Brown Jr.
The sixth overall pick rolled his left ankle working out before the start of camp. On Media Day, Sean Marks mentioned that he isn’t expecting him to miss “considerable time at all.” That’s a sigh of relief compared to September 2025, when the Nets revealed that eighth overall pick Egor Demin would miss time due to a left plantar fascia tear that at one point had put him in a wheelchair.
As for Brown Jr., it’s becoming obvious the 20-year-old is very eager to get on the floor, but as he continues his recovery, the Nets’ performance team is taking a cautious approach. He has resumed light on-court work, but he hasn’t been cleared for full-contact work as Brooklyn prepares for its preseason opener against Charlotte on Tuesday.
“Yeah, as of right now they’re just telling me you could get back moving a little bit, really just trying to get the strengthening it up back,” Brown said at Thursday’s practice. “I mean, I am back on the court moving. That’s all I’m really worried about right now. I’m just taking it one step at a time.”
For any rookie, the mental adjustment to rehab is often harder than the physical one. The organization hasn’t provided a firm timetable for his debut. Brown Jr. acknowledged the learning curve required to yield to the medical staff – something worth getting used to in Brooklyn.
“I feel like I have no choice but to be patient,” Brown Jr. said. “I want to be out there so bad, but they’ve just been emphasizing to me, ‘Let’s take our time with this stuff and get you back 100 percent,’ which me, I’m trying to play as soon as possible. So really just attacking this rehab, focusing on stuff that I can control.”
The real games don’t begin until October 21 with preseason games beginning next Tuesday and running through October 14. The Nets aren’t going to risk Brown Jr. getting more injured over practice — whether he likes it or not. But this will also be Brooklyn’s second preseason in which its highest-drafted prospect will miss some time in training camp due to injury. Demin played only one preseason game last year.
“I mean, that’s up to the performance staff,” Brown said when asked if he expects to play in the preseason. “I’m just doing what I can to get back on the court as of right now.”
Keon Ellis Stock Rising Early in Camp
While Brown’s on-court debut is on pause, another backcourt piece is making noise. Keon Ellis has turned heads early in training camp with his defensive intensity and perimeter shooting. When asked which teammate has made the strongest impression during the opening slate of practices, veteran forward Michael Porter Jr. didn’t hesitate.
“Keon has been hooping these first [few] days,” Porter Jr. noted. “He plays the right way. He plays defense. He can really shoot the ball, and he’s been just overall very solid.”
Ellis, known for his relentless point-of-attack defense and efficient floor-spacing, provides the exact operational pace head coach Jordi Fernández is preaching: quick choices, defensive versatility, and zero wasted motion.
Closing Out The Work Week
Fernández shifted the team’s workload on Thursday, making it a non-contact practice.
“When you’re tired, you can lose it easily,” Fernández explained. “And [Thursday] being a non-contact session and a session that it’s more mental with the film and the walk-throughs and installing new things, your brain needs to be there. It was very positive like an active recovery where you still need to advance… It was a great day. And then [Friday], it’s going to be a big high-load game day with a lot of playing. And players, they love to play, so they’re excited about tomorrow.”
The fast-paced scrimmages have also served as a testing ground for lineup experimenting. Interestingly, Fernández has kept veteran forwards Michael Porter Jr. and Julius Randle on opposite sides during scrimmages, using the early portion of camp to evaluate different lineups.
With Charlotte coming to town next week, Brooklyn’s mix of developmental patience and physical evaluation is officially underway.
CAMDEN, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 28: Dean Wade #45 of the Philadelphia 76ers poses for a portrait during media day at the Philadelphia 76ers Training Complex on September 28, 2026 in Camden, New Jersey. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) | Getty Images
With the 2026-2027 NBA season just right around the corner, the Sixers are at the forefront of conversation and intrigue for the upcoming campaign.
Most of the focus is centered around the acquisitions of LeBron James and Jaylen Brown and how they will fit amongst the trio of Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe. While the star-studded first five will have to shoulder most of the responsibility on this team, the depth and production from the Sixers’ bench unit will be a major swing factor in how this team contends both throughout the regular season and postseason. So that raises the question. Do the Sixers have enough depth?
The Backcourt
This is the most quality backcourt depth the Sixers have had in recent memory. The trio of Anfernee Simons, Labaron Philon Jr. and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope should provide the Sixers with plenty of ball handling, shooting and scoring punch off the bench.
Simons joins the Sixers after signing a two-year, $12-million contract with a second-year player-option this summer. Simons is coming off a season where he appeared in 55 games between Boston and Chicago, where he was traded before the deadline in exchange for Nikola Vucevic and draft compensation. Simons averaged 14.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, while shooting 44% from the field, 39% from threeand just shy of 90% from the foul line. The skill that is going to prove most valuable for this Sixers team is his shooting ability. On top of his 39% from three, Simons attempted a career high 9.9 threes per 36 minutes. His ability to shoot off the catch, off the dribble and off movement is going to be huge for providing space and gravity across many lineups next to the Sixers stars. Simons also has the ability to go off on his own at any given time and be the primary focal point offensively for a bench unit.
Philon, the Sixers’ first-round pick in June’s NBA draft, is a perfect guard to blend in with this team. He’s immediately the Sixers’ second-best passer on the perimeter aside from LeBron James and an elite pick-and-roll operator who is also more than capable of scoring in isolation from all three levels. Philon has the skillset to play both with the ball in his hands or off the ball next to other primary creators — an ability he showed throughout his time in college at Alabama and in high school at Link Academy.
Philon, similarly to Simons, has the ability to be the primary engine of your second unit offense, with even more playmaking juice than Simons provides. He’s also able to fit next to either Maxey or Edgecombe in the backcourt as well playing a tertiary role as a secondary creator or spot-up guy alongside Brown, Embiid and James. Philon is also an excellent transition player which plays right into what is likely to be a major part of the Sixers identity given how Maxey, Edgecombe, Brown and James are four of the most dangerous transition players in the sport. Philon was a steal for the Sixers in the 2026 draft, and his scalability is going to provide the Sixers with a significant jolt in their backcourt off the bench.
Labaron Philon efficient from all three levels. Don’t be surprised if he is in 6th man of the year conversations immediately. pic.twitter.com/6JiYe8PTln
Caldwell-Pope, more famously referred to as “KCP,” is no stranger to playing a 3-and-D role supplementing star-laden lineups. The two-time NBA champion and fellow Klutch sport client won a title alongside LeBron and Anthony Davis in L.A. during the NBA bubble as well as with the Denver Nuggets in 2023 next to Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. While Caldwell-Pope is not quite the elite 3-and-D role player he was in his prime, now entering year 14 and his age 33 season, KCP still should be able to provide adequate defense and spacing off the bench and his championship experience and championship level chemistry that’s already established with James won’t hurt either.
Two-way contract guys Caleb Love and Rayan Rupert could provide some value as well if the team runs into some injuries or there’s some heavy rest nights for the Sixers primary players. Love is a microwave scorer capable of having big offensive outburst. Rupert is more of a defense-first guard/wing with standout length and a high motor who is an excellent rebounder.
The Frontcourt
The Sixers’ biggest offseason acquisition prior to the trade for Brown and the free agency acquisition of James was them inking former Cleveland Cavaliers forward Dean Wade to a four-year, $38-million deal. Wade was penciled in as the Sixers starting power forward prior to the addition of James later on in free agency. Wade is a quintessential 3-and-D forward whose versatile defense is going to be a major chess piece for the Sixers.
I’d expect Wade to lead the Sixers bench in minutes played and time played alongside the Sixers starters. His ability to guard both up and down the lineup from small guards to larger forwards will make him an important piece on the board for the Sixers. I would expect Wade will spend a lot of his time checking opposing team’s primary scoring options. He’s also a phenomenal offensive rebounder who will win extra possessions and space from three. Wade upping his three-point volume should be a point of emphasis for him this year as he is going to get plenty of open looks playing next to the Sixers stars.
Dominick Barlow was a revelation for the Sixers during the 2025-2026 season. Barlow, who started the season on a two-way contract, went on to start 59 games and play 24 minutes a night. His defense, motor and overall activity on both ends made him a key role player on a playoff team last season. Barlow, who spent most of this offseason reworking his jump shot in an effort to become a better three-point shooter, could prove to be a vital role player for the Sixers again this season.
His cutting ability and open court athleticism theoretically fits very nicely alongside the Sixers stars, in particular LeBron James, who is one of the best in the world at finding cutters. Lineups that featured Barlow at the power forward spot next to Joel Embiid were among the most efficient lineups for the Sixers last season. If Barlow can improve his outside shooting, he becomes an even more valuable and fittable piece into the Sixers’ puzzle.
Barlow off ball movement, cutting, ability to run the floor are going to fit great with LeBron. https://t.co/hRvuOTI79K
Jabari Walker and Justin Edwards are likely to serve as deeper bench reserves in the Sixers frontcourt. Walker’s rebounding ability on both ends allows him to provide value in that context while also being capable of knocking down an open corner three. Continued improvement as a shooter and defender will be needed for Walker to carve out more of a role. Edwards should be a plug-and-play fit whenever needed as another 3-and-D wing. Edwards will have to show more consistency to warrant a consistent role on this iteration of the Sixers. Improvements in screen navigation on the defensive end would go a long way in helping Edward’s case for more minutes. Edwards is also capable of getting hot from distance as we’ve seen several times over the last couple of seasons.
The biggest question mark for the Sixers depth chart heading into the season is the backup center position. Adem Bona is likely to serve as the Sixers primary backup center to start the season, and he has had his moments throughout his first couple of seasons in the NBA. Bona should benefit greatly when playing alongside James as Bona is an excellent runner of the floor and lob threat who will be better optimized playing with a passer like LeBron. Bona has had his struggles defending bigger players in the low post and with rebounding as he is a bit undersized for a center and does not have the best hands. I expect Bona to provide minutes in the regular season and his defensive versatility to shine more in a better equipped Sixers lineup.
Ariel Hukporti is the Sixers other true backup center option after coming over from the New York Knicks in the offseason by way of free agency. Hukporti saw limited minutes for the Knicks over the last two seasons playing nine minutes a game over 79 contest the past two years. He’s a quality rebounder and provides a bit more size than Bona does at the center spot. Hukporti is known to be an excellent screener which serves him well as he will likely be setting a lot of ball screens for the Sixers ball handlers. I would also expect the Sixers to deploy quite a bit of “small ball” at the 5 with guys like Wade, Barlow and James playing in that spot and alongside each other across the frontcourt and leaning into the versatility that their forward positions provide.
If there is a spot that I could see the Sixers looking to upgrade before the trade deadline it would be the backup center spot as we know how valuable that position is behind Joel Embiid.
Adem Bona really did it ALL for Türkiye (including making a three-pointer) 🫣🇹🇷
The most underdiscussed and underappreciated part of the Sixers offseason was the improvements made to their second unit. I’m bullish on what the Sixers bench will be able to provide for this team and the quality of depth as a whole — something us Sixers fans have not often experienced with this team. Helps when you can sign the greatest player of all time to a vet minimum contract.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 20: Miguel Rojas #72 of the Los Angeles Dodgers swings during the game against the San Francisco Giants at Dodger Stadium on September 20, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Two teams in the NL East battled it out over a three-game stretch to see who would be lucky enough to get in the Dodgers’ way. Ultimately, the Atlanta Braves got the best of the Philadelphia Phillies in a three-game Wild Card series, and the stage is set for a 2021 NLCS rematch beginning on Saturday in Los Angeles.
The Dodgers have thrice previously experienced a first-round bye, having come away successful only once. Once again, the team has taken this time to prepare for the quest of a third consecutive championship. For some players, such as Miguel Rojas, he has used this time to study for the U.S. citizenship test, as well as reflect on what could be his final postseason run, per Sonja Chen of MLB.com.
“I feel like I wouldn’t play for another team that is not the Dodgers. That’s something that I have control over,” Rojas said. “You have to meet with the organization and know what their plans are for the future and all that, and see if you fit in on the plans. … That’s the reason why I feel like this might be it, and at the same time, I don’t want to be a distraction to the whole group for what we want to accomplish.”
The Dodgers have two options for which player could serve as the team’s left-handed bat off the bench, those being outfielder Josue De Paula and catcher Dalton Rushing. It’s still a toss-up as to whom the Dodgers will pick, but, as Jack Harris of the California Post notes, it’d be a surprise to not see the 21-year-old outfielder’s name on the postseason roster come Saturday.
At this point, though, it would be a surprise if the 21-year-old slugger wasn’t active for the best-of-five series.
“He’s just a special hitter,” manager Dave Roberts said last week. “[His skill set] lines up in the postseason. And no moment is going to be too big for that kid.”
The last time the Dodgers faced against Atlanta in October, their quest for a repeat came to a scratching halt after a six-game series, with the latter laughing their way to a World Series win over the Houston Astros. Once again, the Dodgers have the upper hand on paper, and they are well aware that they have a target on their backs, writes Maddie Lee of the Los Angeles Times.
\n\n\n\tSep 25, 2026; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Tarik Biberovic (13) takes a selfie photo during the Mavericks media day at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect\t\n\n
The question of whether Tarik Biberović will be used in the right way – or at all – in Dallas is on a lot of people’s minds.
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Will he get the minutes and touches to show what he can do? Will he get the time and trust from the coach to transfer his skills to a league that’s basically ‘designed’ for players like him?
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Or will this be yet another European EuroLeague star, coming in with incredible experience performing under pressure, an elite shooter, off-ball mover, high IQ, who can defend, as well – but won’t get the minutes and support needed to flourish in the NBA?
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Let’s not forget: Tarik Biberović is a proven, elite shooter, who played professionally for eight seasons in Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahçe. Talk about performing under pressure, these guys have played through it all.
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And in a similar vein, Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets said something interesting this week during their media day. He said that he wishes every NBA player “would go play six months in Europe just to see how much pressure there is,” and pointed out that it’s all about production there.
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In this clip, we get a little taste of the fandom, support but also the extreme pressure of the top teams in Europe. Here, Fenerbahçe fans are getting ready for a big game against Olympiacos.
This is just a glimpse of the support Fenerbahçe receives. But with great expectations comes great pressure, and these players have to learn to handle it all. Especially how to play in equally hostile environments, like against Serbian Partizan.
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Vivir un partido de @EuroLeague del @PartizanBC en Belgrado, es uno de los sueños que me quedan por cumplir.
Historically, NBA teams have not been very good at taking advantage of and utilizing the talent produced in Europe, and formed through equal parts pressure and support. This tradition has the potential to create some of the greatest players the game has seen, capable of seizing the moment every game. But still, most NBA teams have hesitated when the player doesn’t come from the draft and fit into what they already know.
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It’s as if when a player arrives in the NBA, already formed and considered a star in Europe – some with MVP awards, who affect winning on their team every day – things get lost in translation.
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Support, communication and guidance have not been provided to these players, who are so far out of their comfort zones in America, but itching to prove themselves. Respect for what these players have already accomplished seems to be lacking at best, leadership, staff and teammates looking at them as outsiders and end-of-bench guys seems to be the norm, all because they forgot to do their homework. What a waste.
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Two times EuroLeague MVP and also two times EuroLeague topscorer, Sasha Vezenkov, is just one recent example here, but there are many more.
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So when Tarik Biberović walked onto the podium to do his first media day press conference in Dallas last week, it was not a normal day at the office. Not for the Turkish national team player with Bosnian roots – or for many of us watching from the old continent.
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Despite the whole media day setup of multiple interviews, media people everywhere, (silly) games and questions and photo shoots – which could be very overwhelming when you’re not used to it, Biberović entered the stage with a smile and left a great impression, looking like the pro he obviously is.
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Confidently, and with the biggest smile, he announced that he’s a “lights out shooter”, and that Dallas fans will get to see that for themselves this season.
Confidence is contagious, and watching this, it’s hard not to smile along and feel pretty confident this guy is the real deal.
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“I’m a sharp shooter. I hope everyone will see that clearly this season. I believe it will translate just as well as it did there, (the EuroLeague) maybe even better. I’ve been here for a month now, and from what I’ve seen so far, the style of play and the pace of the game here have the structure I prefer and enjoy,” the 6’7 shooting guard said.
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Again with a bright smile, Biberović told the story of how people who had played in the NBA kept telling him he was made for the best league in the world:
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“Before I came here, throughout last season, every player who had previously played in the NBA and is currently playing in the EuroLeague told me I needed to go to the NBA.”
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“Because this league is essentially designed for players like me – players who can shoot, create space, and play defense. Energy, enthusiasm… all of these are qualities that can be fully expressed in this league. I really appreciated them talking to me that way because it made me feel more confident and better guided in taking this step.”
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Adapting to life in the US and Dallas can be tough, and even overwhelming to the best of us. But Biberović seemed prepared and very reflective through this process.
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“It’s a completely different experience for me. I believe there are major differences between cultures. America is very practical in every way. I’m still trying to get used to it – after all, this was my first month here.”
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Just as all the new guys said during media day, everybody loves the food, vibe and people of Dallas. And that’s no small thing for a newcomer:
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“I’ve explored some places; I love the restaurants and the food. People are very hospitable and warm. The city itself is also very energetic. Actually, one of the things I love most is how much they love and value sports in all its forms.”
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Earlier this summer, coach Dusty May called Tarik Biberovic “a cultured guy”, who doesn’t need Google Translate. Like most Europeans on the continent, he speaks multiple languages and moves between cultures effortlessly.
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The cultured part became very evident during this interview, too. Biberović was comfortable, confident and answered questions with great reflection. Like here, when he talked about how he believes him and other Europeans have a lot to contribute to the NBA.
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“Getting things from different perspectives is always going to be better. I believe as European guys, those are the things that we can bring to the team.”
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Years ago, I wrote about how Luka Doncic learning how to lose in Europe, when he played with grown men as a teenager, helped make him the standout superstar he is today.
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Biberović reflected on his similar experience and how that has affected him and his game.
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That experience and tradition is also what makes the European player special.
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“It’s a different kind of basketball. We’re taught in a different way. Since I was very young, since I went pro when I was 14, 14-15, I played with old men basically, since 15. That brings us an understanding of basketball.”
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“At that young age, trying to understand your position and trying to earn your own status is very hard. You have to fight for yourself, so from a very young age you either are or you’re not. Eat or be eaten. It is like that over there because nobody cares if you’re young or you’re old. If you can play at that moment you play, if not, you’re at the end of the bench and you wait for your chance,” he said.
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But it’s not all bad, there’s a lot of aspects of European basketball and player development that set players up for success, both in Europe and compared to American peers:
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“There’s good things about it, too. Learning how to live as a professional. Learn from their experience. Better to learn from somebody else’s mistakes than make your own. So these kinds of things are actually helping you to mature a little bit earlier than your age group. And personally, I’m very grateful for the path I’ve lived,” Biberović reflected.
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He also revealed that the idea of going to Dallas was not as surprising and new to him as we may have thought. As it turns out, when Dallas acquired his rights and he arrived at the Mavs facility, there were a couple familiar faces.
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“I’ve known Mike Schmitz since I was very young because he’s one of the best when it comes to scouting players. He knows everything about European players. So this was kind of a comfort zone for us. When the Mavericks acquired my rights, I spoke with Masai Ujiri and Mike Schmitz; we were completely on the same page. My dream has always been to make it to the NBA and be part of the Dallas Mavericks organization. They stepped up, gave me this chance, and I’m very happy to be here.”
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Just another nod to both president Masai Ujiri and GM Mike Schmitz’ hard work and huge network over a long time – especially in Europe. All that work is now benefiting the Mavericks organization.
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It wouldn’t be a surprise at this point if hidden treasures and gems from all over the world will be going to Dallas the next while. Many will be cheap and unrefined still, but with all the potential of a Dirk Nowitzki, Luka Doncic or Giannis Antetokounmpo. Or Tarik Biberović and Sergio De Larrea.
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So as Biberović is getting ready to play for the Mavs soon, people all over Europe are following his journey closely to see if he and Dallas manage to set a new precedent.
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The potential is huge. The current NBA style of play combined with the high IQ, shooting and defensive acumen, all point to one thing: the more high-level European talent you can utilize, the bigger the chance of success for your team as this league looks right now.
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Something feels different in Dallas. Both compared with the recent past, but also with a
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other teams in the NBA. The new leadership is outward-focused. Instead of seeing differences as a problem, they see it as an advantage. As a way to gain an advantage over other teams.
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Two international scouts at the helm. A close relationship with the GM, which Tarik Biberović calls “the best scout”. Five Europeans of varying NBA experience to add some familiarity and support when adjusting to life in the US and customs in the NBA.
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Things are different in Dallas in all the right ways.
ZADAR, CROATIA - AUGUST 27: Mario Hezonja of Croatia drives to the basket during the FIBA World Cup 2027 European Qualifiers Group K game between Croatia and Latvia at Dvorana Kresimira Cosica on August 27, 2026 in Zadar, Croatia. (Photo by Vedran Vlahovic/FIBA via Getty Images) | FIBA via Getty Images
After missing out on LeBron James and losing Dean Wade in free agency, the Cleveland Cavaliers had to pivot. Waiting for James to make his decision, while worth the risk, left very few options on the wing once the Cavs were shunned. The front office had to get creative, check every couch cushion, and the international space to find a diamond in the rough.
Enter, Mario Hezonja.
It is hard to say, perhaps near impossible to say, that Hezonja will turn out to be a diamond. He fizzled out in the NBA prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but has rebuilt his value overseas with Panathinaikos, UNICS, and Real Madrid. In his most recent season in Spain, Hezonja averaged 17.5 points and 4.9 rebounds per game while shooting 46.5% from the floor and 36.6% from three-point territory (on just under six attempts per game). Those are solid numbers for the NBA, but overseas play is different for a number of reasons.
Now 31 years old, it is difficult to say exactly what the Cavs are getting in Hezonja. He is listed as 6’9” and 242 pounds, both higher than what he was previously listed as. Size is something on the wing that the Cavs have continuously needed (along with athleticism), and Hezonja should be able to provide that at the very least.
During media day, when asked he brings to the Cavs, Hezonja focused on energy and hustle. “Well.. very hardworking player that plays 200% every day,” Hezonja said. “There is no off games, super versatile, can do all on the on the court with confidence, grit, and a lot of hunger.”
Flaming out in the NBA the first time undoubtedly provides some fire and desire to get back and be successful, and Hezonja has an opportunity to carve out a role in Cleveland. The Cavs’ bench is thin, even by their standards, and the losses of Wade and Max Strus will compound their issues on the wing. Acquiring Peyton Watson helps, but Hezonja will have a certain level of responsibility right out of the gate. That may be an uncomfortable reality, but the Cavs are counting on him — as well as growth from Jaylon Tyson — to fill the cracks in the roster.
Hezonja comes into a good opportunity with a team that has playoff expectations and multiple stars to orchestrate things on both sides of the ball. But there is certainly a risk of him failing to meet the NBA’s physicality and speed. His contract is not guaranteed for a reason, but he will get a fair shot to make an impact. And the Cavs would be much, much better for it.
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - SEPTEMBER 28: Myles Turner #3 of the Milwaukee Bucks poses for a portrait during the Milwaukee Bucks 2026 Media Day at Froedtert & MCW Sports Science Center on September 28, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Good things come to those who wait and boy have we waited. Yes, after months of anticipation, deliberation, and disputation, we can finally see our beloved Milwaukee Bucks in action—their preseason starts next week!
Schedule
The Bucks play five preseason games, starting Monday against the new-look Minnesota Timberwolves. Here’s their complete schedule:
When
Opponent
Monday, October 5 (7:00 PM)
vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
Wednesday, October 7 (7:00 PM)
@ Oklahoma City Thunder
Sunday, October 11 (6:00 PM)
@ Charlotte Hornets
Wednesday, October 14 (7:00 PM)
vs. Chicago Bulls
Friday, October 16 (6:00 PM)
@ Indiana Pacers
Revitalised rosters
Like the Bucks, their preseason opponents have also undergone significant facelifts. We’ll delve into these in more detail in our game previews, but for now, here’s how they’ve changed:
Minnesota Timberwolves
Ins: LaMelo Ball, Jonathan Kuminga, Trey Lyles, Cody Williams, and Isaiah Evans.
Outs: Julius Randle, Naz Reid, Mike Conley, Kyle Anderson, and John Konchar.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Ins: Aday Mara, Bennett Stirtz, and Otega Oweh.
Outs: Luguentz Dort, Isaiah Joe, Aaron Wiggins, and Branden Carlson.
Charlotte Hornets
Ins: Hannes Steinbach, Christian Anderson, Naz Reid, Grayson Allen, Royce O’Neale, and Dennis Schröder.
Outs: LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, Josh Green, Buddy Hield (well, sort of), Xavier Tillman, and Tre Mann.
Chicago Bulls
Ins: Caleb Wilson, Norman Powell, Nic Claxton, Buddy Hield, and Dailyn Swain.
Outs: Collin Sexton, Anfernee Simons, Nick Richards, Rob Dillingham, and Mouhamadou Gueye.
Indiana Pacers
Ins: Larry Nance Jr., Kelly Oubre Jr., and Braden Smith. Of course, the real in is Tyrese Haliburton, who will return after missing the entire 2025-26 season with a torn right Achilles tendon.
Outs: Kam Jones and Micah Potter.
How to watch
As per the Bucks’ media release in July, preseason and regular-season games will air on MY24 and statewide affiliates in partnership with Rincon Broadcasting Group. How good! If you’re an international fan like me, make sure you’ve re-upped your NBA League Pass subscription. Either way, all fans can check here for local viewing options.
Brew Hoopers, which game are you most amped for? And what are you hoping to see from the Bucks?
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 18: Eduardo Valencia #32 of the Detroit Tigers celebrates as Hao-Yu Lee #50 of the Detroit Tigers runs towards home plate during the eighth inning at Rate Field on September 18, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jessie Alcheh/Getty Images) | Getty Images
As the Detroit Tigers begin the 2026-2027 offseason, there are quite a lot of roster spots that are obviously locked up. Among the rookies there are many more question marks, but clearly Kevin McGonigle and Max Clark are in the lineup on Opening Day. For rookies like Ben Malgeri, Brett Callahan, and John Peck, things are much more of a wide open question and will depend on how they perform in spring camp and what the Tigers do in the offseason. Two more rookies came into the final month of the season in somewhat uncertain territory, but the closing arguments made by Hao-Yu Lee and Eduardo Valencia all but assured their spots next spring.
The 23-year-old Lee, the Taiwanese Tiger (bear with us, we’re workshopping), was called up very early in the season in mid-April due to injuries. His six-week stint did not go well. He was fine for the first two weeks, and then crumbled to pieces in May, posting a 16 wRC+ for the month. Now that Lee’s fiery, hypercompetitive personality is better known to fans, you can imagine how he took those struggles when he went back to Triple-A for the first two weeks of June. He was not pleased. Fortunately, he took the lessons to heart, and was better prepared mentally when he was recalled on June 13.
He returned with a vengeance. posting a 151 wRC+ (51 percent better than league average) at the plate for the rest of June. He went on to hit .283 with eight homers and 27 total extra base hits and a 123 wRC+ over 277 plate appearances the rest of the way. He put up a 132 wRC+ in July, and then declined a bit down to 118 in August and 113 in September. He was on the good side of lady luck in June and early July, but even so he held up really nicely over the final two months of the season, showing signs of settling in to sustainably above average production including a average exit velocity of 91.1 mph off the bat in the second half. He also put up some really gritty at-bats under pressure, which was particularly good to see from a young player.
Overall, Lee’s numbers look reasonably sustainable too. He struck out 23.9 percent of the time and walked 8.2 percent of the time. Those are roughly average marks, backed up by his chase rates, though he did whiff a bit more than we’d prefer. Of course, that includes his early six-week stint where he was a bit overwhelmed. He’s still a young player getting better and he showed it from June through the end of the season.
His .325 wOBA was a little better than Statcast’s xwOBA of .302 for him. Expected wOBA is based on his contact quality as well as his plate discipline metrics. If we isolate June 1 through the end of the season, Lee had a .352 wOBA and a .310 xwOBA. So there are signs there to expect some modest regression, but at the same time, for a 23-year-old rookie that’s pretty good because he should be able to settle in and trim a few strikeouts out of the profile going forward. There are no guarantees, but it feels pretty easy to bet on Lee working his tail off and getting better.
Defensively there are a lot bigger question marks. He was below average at both second and third base, with some of that weakness coming from errors, not more subtle distinctions like range. Having watched a lot of Hao-Yu Lee during his time in the Tigers farm system, this was all somewhat surprising. He’s certainly not a plus defender, but the kind of mistakes he made this season, where he just dropped or otherwise misplayed quite a few balls, wasn’t so common in his minor league work. He’s certainly not the softest handed guy around, but I do think he’ll grade out closer to average at both positions with more time and experience.
The Tigers have themselves a player here. Maybe not one who starts 155 games next season, but a lot more than just a platoon bat. Lee has a history of beating up on lefties and struggling with right-handed pitching, but he balanced things out well this year, hitting right-handers a little better actually. That probably won’t last, because it rarely does, but Lee can handle himself no matter who is on the found. To become a really dangerous hitter, he will need to pull more balls in the air, but he’s already showing average power and may well get better. Barring some kind of disastrous spring camp, and that may not even matter if spring camp starts late and is shortened anyway, limiting the abilty to evaluate players, Lee is going to be on the Opening Day roster and may be the Tigers starting third baseman much of the time, depending on whether Max Anderson is ready to play some second base for them or not, and whether John Peck looks a little more hitterish and gets regular work at shortstop.
As for Eduardo Valencia, the man was absolutely on fire in August and September. The 26-year-old catcher posted a whopping 182 wRC+ in 42 games. He hit .341 with eight homers in a quarter of the season. The issue is that he was also incredibly lucky on balls in play and showed off a pretty lousy approach at the plate. Still, pitchers make mistakes, and Valencia hit just about every one they made with authority.
Valencia walked just 4.3 percent of the time, and his chase rate (O-swing %) was a whopping 35.3 percent. And yet his strikeout rate was a pretty reasonable 23.2 percent, just a little worse than league average. He’s a decent bad ball hitter and shows some knack for fouling off pitchers pitches to stay in counts, but his swing discipline is going to have to improve. As long as they can get him chasing this much, pitchers will figure out how to exploit him. It will be difficult to sustain even average production over the long term, despite his quality power production. Valencia’s chase rates in the minor leagues were quite a bit better than this, and again we’re only talking about 42 games worth of major league work, so hopefully he can cut into that number and be more selective as he gains experience against major league pitching.
As a bat first catcher, there is going to be a lot of pressure on him to improve his process at the plate. However, there are some positive signs defensively that say he’ll be able to hold up as a part-time catcher, handling something like 40-50 games behind the plate in relief of Dillon Dingler, and spending the rest of his time DH-ing. Valencia has played a little bit of first base, but it was pretty ugly there and he’d need a lot of reps to develop at the position. There just isn’t really an opportunity to make that happen, and meanwhile the Tigers have 3-4 other players who should probably be playing first base above any other position.
Valencia graded out as a +1 in blocks above average per Statcast. He was a +2 in framing runs above average. His numbers when I checked in early September were a bit below average, but with more work with the major league coaching staff and in particular, catching coach Ryan Sienko, Valencia showed some improvement. Former Tigers Triple-A manager Gabe Alvarez noted at the end of the 2025 season that while Valencia was below average in those metrics, he was working hard to improve. A year later, he appears to have been correct.
The real weakness is still controlling the running game. His 1.95 seconds average pop time is a little below average, though we’re talking about some pretty fine margins. That’s workable, but Valencia’s 81.6 mph average throw is pretty poor arm strength for a major league catcher. Can he improve on that in the offseason? Well, they teach pitchers how to throw harder, but at age 26 already I don’t really love his chances. Most likely he’s developed into a solid catcher behind the plate who is going to struggle to control the running game. As long as he hits, that’s not the worst flaw to deal with on a part-time basis.
The Tigers have some interesting young catchers, mainly Thayron Liranzo and perhaps the suddenly surging Luke Shliger, who may be ready to contribute later in the 2027 season. Josue Briceño is still more in Valencia territory, where the skills behind the plate are a bit on the light side, and the bat is the far more important part of the equation. I don’t really foresee any of these guys forcing their way onto the roster immediately next spring, certainly not behind the plate. But there is help coming eventually, and if the Tigers have Valencia as their primary backup for one season they’ll probably be alright. The offensive contributions are probably going to outweigh the option of having a better defensive catcher who doesn’t hit much, a la Jake Rogers.
The Tigers have an interesting crop of rookies coming next season. They should have support for the lineup as the season progresses from guys like Max Anderson, Briceño, and Zyhir Hope. Those players, along with this season’s first year players like Peck, Callahan, and Ben Malgeri, will still have to win a job in spring training. Hao-Yu Lee and Eduardo Valencia separated themselves into a bit of a different category with their strong performance over the final six weeks of the season. The duo should have an Opening Day roster spot locked up next spring barring something we can’t foresee, like an injury.
Kevin McGonigle and Max Clark took over the team in 2026, but they weren’t the only ones to impress. Hopefully Lee and Valencia, now knowing what to expect, can refine their games a little further this offseason and remain consistent contributors in 2027 and beyond.
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 29: Luis Severino #40 and Shea Langeliers #23 of the Athletics smile while walking to the dugout before a game against the New York Yankees at Sutter Health Park on May 29, 2026 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Justine Willard/Athletics/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Good morning A’s fans! Happy Friday!
Now that the calendar has turned to October, spooky season is not the only thing anticipated this month. The MLB playoffs are ratcheting up, with the final game of the Wild Card round taking place yesterday.
The New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox and San Diego Padres all dispatched their opponents in two games. Those three teams will move on to play the Tampa Bay Rays, Cleveland Guardians and Milwaukee Brewers, respectively. The fourth matchup, featuring National League East winner Atlanta Braves against their division rival Philadelphia Phillies, was the only series that took three games to determine a winner. The Braves prevailed, moving on to challenge the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
If the Green and Gold want to return to the playoffs in 2027—assuming there is a season—they will need to make some roster and coaching changes over the next few months.
While A’s manager Mark Kotsay remains employed, pitching coach Scott Emerson, assistant hitting coach Chris Cron and quality control coach Marcus Jensen have all been dismissed from their duties. Perhaps with Cron out of the picture, A’s hitters will tone down their hack-at-every-pitch approach.
Before the A’s can make any free-agency maneuverings, however, they must first address several players with contract options.
Right-hander Luis Severino, who missed the majority of 2026 with a shoulder injury, has five days after the end of the World Series to exercise or decline his $22 million player option. Meanwhile, veteran left-hander Jeffrey Springs and second baseman Jeff McNeil have $15 million club options. The Athletics will surely pay the $750,000 buyout to make Springs a free agent, while the New York Mets are responsible for McNeil’s $2 million buyout. The infielder will likely join Springs on the open market, where the A’s can re-sign him for less or let him join another team.
Once those decisions are made, the A’s will look to be aggressive in addressing their roster deficiencies. It will be interesting to see how the free-agent and trade markets unfold this offseason, particularly with the looming threat of a lockout beginning Dec. 1.
Do you think free agents will be quicker to sign than in years past, or will there be a lull in activity? And what are your predictions for the Division Series?
1B Joey Meneses elected free agency LHP G.Jump/IF M.Muncy off A’s IL LHP Jamie Arnold/RHP Gustavo Rodriguez/C Chad Wallach/IF Drew Swift/IF Justin Riemer off LV IL LHP D.Keuchel/RHP A.Bash/RHP N.Hernandez/C A.Marnell off LV develop list A’s 40-man updatedhttps://t.co/akMLgYCY2b
— Bill Moriarity – A's Farm (@AthleticsFarm) October 1, 2026
Do you agree with this guy’s selections? His team comprises the Athletics’ top prospects, underrated names to know and a couple of young Latin players getting their feet wet in rookie ball.
It’s time to look back at Chicago Cubs player performances over the 2026 season. For the purposes of this exercise, the regular season is all I’m going to consider. I don’t think the clear underperformance of two postseason games moves the needle on any of these players.
A reminder that these grades are 100 percent mine and 100 percent subjective. You might — and probably will! — have different opinions on some of them. I’m splitting this into two articles because, well, I found myself writing way, way too many words about the hitters to put everything in just one. The pitcher article will run tomorrow.
Overall, this Cubs team produced much hitting that had been unmatched in franchise history. Their 850 runs scored are the second-most for any Cubs team in the Modern Era since 1930 (855 in 2008). They set a franchise record with 674 walks, breaking the old mark of 656 set in 2016. Their 220 home runs ranked third in MLB (Astros, 226 and Yankees, 223). They walked off the opposition 13 times, tied for second-most in franchise history.
The year didn’t end the way any of us wanted. But that doesn’t mean it wasn’t a great season.
Here’s a breakdown of the significant Cubs hitters of the season just concluded.
Carson Kelly: B
Kelly’s .258/.336/.376 season with 10 home runs and 1.9 bWAR was not quite as good as his 2025 year, but I think it was absolutely fine for who he is. Kelly started 94 games behind the plate and threw out 24.1 percent of runners trying to steal, close to league average. He was also one of the top catchers (68.8 percent) in getting ABS calls correct.
I would like to see the Cubs bring Kelly back in 2027. There’s a mutual option which will certainly be declined, but I think the team and player could come to some sort of agreement, maybe with a vesting option.
Miguel Amaya: B
Amaya started 63 games as Cubs catcher this year (that’s 157 between Kelly and Amaya; the other five went to Moisés Ballesteros). Amaya threw out 28.9 percent of runners and hit well enough (.237/.340/.377 with six home runs in 215 at-bats). Pitchers like throwing to Amaya and Kelly and they make a good tandem.
Some will say that Owen Ayers should be given the backup role behind Amaya next year and Kelly should be let go. This would be a bad idea. Ayers has not caught a single MLB game and he’s caught only 33 games at the Triple-A level. He needs more experience.
Michael Busch: C
Busch’s power took a significant drop this year, from 34 home runs to 20 and from a .523 SLG to .393. That’s not good enough for a guy who occupies a middle of the lineup spot.
He did increase his walk total from 56 to 92, which ranked tied for 11th in MLB. But with his BA down from .261 to .242, that resulted in just a nine-point increase in OBP (.343 to .352).
Busch’s 14.2% walk rate is a 4.7% increase compared to 2025, the 10th-largest improvement among hitters with at least 2.1 plate appearances per team game in both seasons. That includes a significant 6.4% increase in walk rate against southpaws, and it puts him in the 94th percentile among all MLB hitters.
“I don’t think there’s one reason. I’m not going into the box necessarily trying to walk, just trying to get a good pitch to hit,” Busch said before Saturday’s win in Pittsburgh. “That’s basically my approach. I’m always happy with a walk, but there are some things that go into it, except just trying to walk. A lot of it is just having some experience now. I’ve been in the league a few years and I think I have a better idea of what pitchers are trying to do with me.”
That’s good, but… his bWAR dropped from 4.5 to 1.6, and the power outage likely has a lot to do with that.
Nico Hoerner: C+
Hoerner came out of the gate looking like an MVP candidate. Through the end of April: .291/.370/.449 with four home runs in 31 games.
Nico didn’t even leave the game and no concussion was diagnosed. He did leave the Cubs’ next game with what was termed “neck tighness,” which you can see here [VIDEO].
Again, he didn’t miss any time after that, but I can’t help wondering if this was something that nagged at him the rest of the season. He missed the next game, then returned and after that batted just .254/.301 /.322 with four home runs in 500 at-bats.
If it really was something bothering Nico all year, I hope the front office is willing to be upfront with us about it.
Dansby Swanson: C
Swanson had a very weird season.
First 14 games: 57 PA, .149/.281/.234, 17 strikeouts Next 17 games: 69 PA, .273/.391/.600. five home runs Next 39 games: 142 PA, .142/.227/.205, one home run, 38 strikeouts Next 13 games: 56 PA, .365/.393/.981, nine home runs, 29 (!) RBI Next 24 games: 90 PA, .209/.244/.267, no home runs, 21 strikeouts Next 12 games: 44 PA, .278/.409/.528, two home runs, 10 runs scored
The end of that last 12-game sequence is when Dansby suffered the oblique injury that kept him out a month. When he returned he batted .160/.250/.280 with nine strikeouts in seven games and 28 PA.
I recognize this is cherry-picking of a sort, but seriously, when have you seen a player have dramatic hot streaks like that followed by sequences that would bench or send to Triple-A less experienced players?
Swanson still played solid defense, though likely not enough for another Gold Glove. His bWAR dropped from 4.5 to 3.2, but he has still averaged 4.2 bWAR for his four Cubs seasons. No complaints here. Just hope he’s healthy in 2027.
Alex Bregman: A-
This grade would have been a solid “A” if not for Bregman’s horrific start as a Cub, which had him batting .235/.333/.338 with just seven home runs in his first 92 games in blue pinstripes. That takes us to two games before the All-Star break. In those two games Bregman went 4-for-9 and homered twice and you could almost see the lights go on.
Including those two, Bregman batted .308/.388/.648 over his last 63 games (281 PA) with 19 doubles, 21 home runs, 50 runs and 58 RBI. That’s an MVP pace if you do it for an entire season. Bregman finished with 5.8 bWAR, third-best of his career and best since 2019, and his leadership qualities have been lauded by everyone in the organization. It was absolutely, positively worth signing him.
I cannot help wondering if not for that freak injury to him Sept. 20 in Cincinnati, whether the Cubs might have won two more games over the last week of the regular season and hosted the Padres in the Wild Card Series, rather than go to San Diego. Maybe that wouldn’t have mattered, maybe it would, but I do think Bregman’s absence really hurt the team that week.
Happ’s numbers weren’t that far off from his previous seasons, though his batting average was quite a bit lower. His power numbers (24 HR, 28 doubles, three triples) were consistent with previous years, his walk total (81) was right on target, and he continued to play a fine left field and likely wins another Gold Glove. That would give him five. Only two Cubs have ever won five or more Gold Gloves: Ron Santo (5) and Ryne Sandberg (9).
It strikes me that a lot of the dislike for Happ that I see on this site stems from the low BA. That’s only one small part of the whole package. He’s been a consistently good player for the Cubs for nearly a decade. If the Cubs make him a qualifying offer, given his middling season, he just might accept it. I think the Cubs would welcome him back for one more year.
Happ’s 197 career home runs rank 11th on the all-time Cubs list, one behind Hank Sauer. If Happ did return for 2027 and hit around 20-25 home runs, his career norm, he’d move up to ninth on that list.
Pete Crow-Armstrong: A++++++++++++++
I could put a few more pluses in there and I don’t think anyone would disagree. Not only will he win the National League MVP award (hopefully unanimously, and remember voting for that had to be completed before the postseason), PCA’s 2026 season was one of the greatest in Cubs franchise history. By bWAR (9.8) he tied Ron Santo’s 1967 season for fourth-best, behind only Ernie Banks (10.2 in 1959), Sammy Sosa (10.3 in 2001) and Rogers Hornsby (10.6 in 1929). Banks and Hornsby were MVP and Sosa finished second to Barry Bonds.
By fWAR it’s second-best, 10.6 to Hornsby’s 11.0.
We were blessed to watch PCA get to the 40/40 club, becoming just the seventh MLB player ever to do that, to hit more home runs (45) than any Cub in 21 years (Derrek Lee, 46 in 2005) and to play fantastic defense every single day.
Don’t ever forget the things you saw this young man do. Even though the season didn’t end the way we wanted, what he did is worth celebrating forever.
I could just post PCA videos for the rest of this article and you’d probably be happy, but I wanted to narrow things down to just one. This one, I think, sums up the disruptive force he can be on the basepaths. It’s the Aug. 6 game against the Blue Jays that was tied up by the aforementioned Bregman home run in the ninth. Neither team scored in the 10th, and PCA led off the 11th with a single that got placed runner Carson Kelly thrown out at the plate. Pete took second on the throw and the Jays intentionally walked Seiya Suzuki to bring up Busch to face former Cub lefty Brendon Little.
Now think about that play. PCA took off on Little’s first pitch. Brandon Valenzuela thus rushed his throw and the ball got away and Pete didn’t even hesitate. You can see Quintin Berry waving him, but that was after PCA was already up and running to the plate. People used to say that Javier Báez’s baseball instincts were off the charts. I think PCA’s are, too.
And he is only 24 years old. Comparisons to what Ernie Banks and Willie Mays did at that age are not unwarranted, in my opinion.
And the Cubs have him signed for six more years at a relatively team-friendly figure. The Báez-for-PCA trade is already one of the best in Cubs history. It could wind up being the best when all is said and done.
Seiya Suzuki: A
Suzuki missed the first 12 games of the season due to a knee injury suffered in the World Baseball Classic. (And doesn’t it seem like the WBC was more than just a few months ago?)
He started out slowly, batting just .229/.372/.257 with 11 strikeouts over his first 10 games.
Then he got scorching hot, batting .351/.441/.754 with seven home runs in his next 15 games.
Over the rest of the year, his performance was quite consistent and he wound up with career highs in walks (81) and runs (96) while batting .270/.368/.473 and posting a career high 5.1 bWAR. Over the five years of the contract he signed before the 2022 season, Suzuki has hit .269/.351/.472 with 113 home runs in 675 games and a career total of 16.2 bWAR, or nearly 4 bWAR per season.
This year, too, his defense improved significantly both by metrics and by the eye test and I would not be surprised if he’s a Gold Glove “finalist” (they’re not really “finalists,” they’re just the three top vote-getters) or even wins the award.
The Cubs should make it a top priority to offer Suzuki a contract extension, maybe four years plus a vesting option for a fifth. He’s been a very valuable member of this team and I’d love to see him return.
Michael Conforto: B+
I was not in favor of this signing when it was announced around the beginning of Spring Training. Conforto had a poor year in 2025 with the Dodgers and I thought Dylan Carlson would be a better player.
Shows you what I know. Carlson played in just three games for the Cubs, going 0-for-4 before being released. He signed with the Phillies, played poorly in 40 Triple-A games for them before being let go and wasn’t picked up by anyone. So clearly, I was totally wrong in my analysis of these two players.
Conforto, meanwhile, slid in to a backup outfield/DH role with grace and production. He started off slowly, but by the end of April was batting .300/.421/.433 in 17 games and 38 PA.
Then came the game of May 4, Conforto’s first appearance in May, he’d sat on the bench for the first three games of the month. The Cubs trailed the Reds 4-3 going to the bottom of the ninth. PCA led off with a triple and one out later, scored on a sacrifice fly.
Conforto was sent up to bat for Matt Shaw. He ran the count full. And then… [VIDEO].
Well now. That’s a way to make a fanbase love you! As noted on the clip, that was his first career walk-off homer.
Conforto batted .240/.331/.469 with 15 home runs in 271 at-bats and played a decent right field when he was asked to do that. He was paid just $2 million for those 15 long balls, which were just two fewer than Kyle Tucker had for the Dodgers… and Tucker was paid, um, a lot more. Conforto and Tucker both finished with 0.7 bWAR. Conforto turns 34 in March. I would absolutely, positively bring him back for another year, if he’s willing.
Lastly, if you did not know this about Conforto, he comes from an athletic family. His mom is Tracie Ruiz-Conforto, who was a gold medalist in synchronized swimming in the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Conforto’s dad, also named Michael, played college football at Penn State.
Tyrone Taylor: A-
Taylor is exactly what the Cubs needed, a solid defensive backup outfielder who can play all three positions well. And he absolutely crushes left-handed pitching, or at least he did in 2026: .318/.348/.573 with six home runs in 110 at-bats. (Career-wise, his .744 OPS is a bit better than .710 vs. RHP, but not as significant a difference as this year.)
Taylor played five seasons for Craig Counsell in Milwaukee, so the Cubs manager knew exactly what he was getting when Taylor was included in the Clay Holmes deal.
He is a free agent and turns 33 in January, but I would love to see him back as a fourth outfielder in 2027.
Matt Shaw: C+
I cannot figure out Matt Shaw. He showed promise in the field and at the plate last year, but seemed to regress in 2026. Some of that was due to multiple injuries that limited him to 77 games this year. His OPS rose from .690 to .737 but his bWAR dropped from 3.0 to 0.7, likely because he was shuttled all around the field this year, rather than mostly play third base as he did in 2025.
He’s not really a right fielder and if the Cubs re-sign Suzuki he might not have a position, though I suppose he could play left. The team might be best served by putting together a package including Shaw and trading him for quality starting pitching.
Pedro Ramírez: B+
Ramírez was only supposed to be in the major leagues briefly. He was called up when Shaw went on the injured list in late May with back issues.
But Ramírez, who impressed me with his defense in Spring Training, hit well enough to stick around and became very useful when Swanson went down with his oblique issue. Overall in 80 games and 266 plate appearances, Ramírez batted .261/.321/.402 with 12 doubles, two triples, six home runs and nine stolen bases. That’s really good for any rookie, but especially one who had just turned 22 in April and who had played only 43 games at Triple-A before his callup.
Manager Craig Counsell, not one to easily dish out praise, made sure to commend Ramírez for the way he carried himself. Veterans noticed it as well.
“I feel really happy that they have that idea, that they think those things about me,” Ramírez said. “I’ve always thought to myself, wherever I go, I’ll always try to show that. It instills a lot of confidence in me that they think about me that way. I’m very thankful for the opportunity.”
This is exactly the sort of thing that makes for a good major league player — hard work and confidence, in addition to natural talent. The emergence of Ramírez is another reason that Shaw could be traded for pitching. The Sharma article also notes:
With Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki heading into free agency this winter, the Cubs are getting comfortable with the idea of giving Ramírez an everyday role in a corner outfield spot.
“I don’t know what the plans are for that position,” Ramírez said. “What I do know is I feel like I can take on whatever role is needed. Whatever it is they need, I can help and I’ll do my absolute best.”
As noted, I’d like to see Suzuki back long-term and Happ could accept a QO. But if not and there’s an opening in the outfield? Why not try Ramírez? The Cubs could have found the proverbial “diamond in the rough.”
Gabriel Arias: Incomplete
Arias could be a really useful player off the bench, but we just don’t know for sure. He played in only seven games for the Cubs, going 3-for-8 with a walk and three RBI.
For the Guardians last year, he was more or less their regular shortstop, starting 102 games there (and also 19 at second base), but he batted just .220/.274/.363 with 162 strikeouts in 471 PA, yikes.
But he won’t turn 27 until February and is a good defender. He’s under team control for three more years.
Kevin Alcántara, Justin Dean, Scott Kingery, Nicky Lopez, B.J. Murray Jr., Owen Miller and James Triantos also played in at least one game for the Cubs this year.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 01: Ray Kerr #62 of the Atlanta Braves acknowledges the crowd while walking to the dugout against the Philadelphia Phillies during the fourth inning in game three of the National League Wild Card Series at Truist Park on October 01, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Good morning everyone, and happy Friday!
The Wild Card round is over as we head into Division Series weekend. Let’s get you caught up on all of that and more.
MLB Postseason Scores…
Former Mariners farmhand Ray Kerr turned himself into a household name with a solid outing for the Braves in their 6-2, series-clinching win over the Phillies.
In Mariners news…
Kate Preusser spoke to several Mariners players to get their insights on what lessons were learned from this disappointing season.
Right-hander Jameson Taillon is set to undergo flexor surgery, which will likely cost him the entire 2027 season. Even at age 35, he intends to complete the rehab process and return to the sport.
Willson Contreras joined Sonny Gray in piling on Red Sox management in the aftermath of the team’s sweep at the hands of the Yankees.
Kiley McDaniel at ESPN spoke to baseball insiders to get predictions on where big fish free agent Tarik Skubal is likely to sign this winter.
It’s not just a Mariners problem — Davy Andrews at Fangraphs wrote about how the Orioles’ failure to manage and communicate about injuries cost the team wins this year.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 01: The Atlanta Braves pose for a photo after defeating the Philadelphia Phillies in game three of the National League Wild Card Series at Truist Park on October 01, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images
With Major League Baseball’s current postseason format, there’s always a chance that the Thursday of Wild Card Series Week is a universal offday. The sample is only so large, but the best-of-three format has not produced many series that have gone the distance — such as it were, as three is hardly much of a distance. Of the 28 Wild Card Series to be played since it was first introduced in 2020 (initially as part of the expanded COVID playoff field and codified in 2022 after one last one-game playoff in 2021), only eight have seen a Game 3 — 28.6 percent.
Indeed, three of the four Wild Card Series were already in the books by the time the sun rose yesterday. We know the Yankees will face the Rays, the Guardians will face the White Sox, and the Brewers will face the Padres. But one remained, and thank the maker for it! October days without any playoff baseball whatsoever are sad days, especially when there’s no personal investment in a short series. We’re already locked into one today, as the Division Series doesn’t begin until tomorrow. But the Phillies’ late rally in Game 2 on Wednesday at Truist Park helped force extras and then a 10th-inning victory to force a Game 3 last night.
Atlanta Braves 6, Philadelphia Phillies 2 (Atlantawins 2-1)
As far as pitching matchups go, this certainly was one. It wasn’t even as outright insulting as the Astros/White Sox “double opener” one, just… OK we’ll just say it: Aaron Nola vs. Ray Kerr. Yeah.
Nola is of course well known for long career in Philly, but hasn’t been his prime form for some time now and was most recently on the mound on two days’ rest to start the Phils’ doomed penultimate game of the season. As for Kerr, I’m literally married to a Braves fan and I have not heard of this gentleman. He’s mostly been a reliever, had Tommy John surgery in 2024, returned to the big-league level this past August, and he’s made just four appearances since Labor Day. But Atlanta manager Walt Weiss gave him a shot to at least cover the start of this do-or-die game, and he was excellent.
Kerr chose Game 3 of NL Wild Card Series to tie his longest outing of the season, recording 10 outs and allowing just one hit.
It was all a terrific beginning to the game for the Braves, desperate to shake off the awful late loss in Game 2. They got on the board quickly against Nola, who issued one-out walks in the first to Ronald Acuña Jr. and Matt Olson to bring Michael Harris II to the plate. On a 2-0 pitch, Harris took out his driver and golfed a pitch out for a three-run homer to right:
The ball was literally only a foot and change off the ground, but Harris blasted it anyway.
And honestly… that was the ballgame! The Phillies never scored more than a couple runs, so Harris’ homer held up. It didn’t help them that when Zack Wheeler entered in relief—several wondered if it would’ve made more sense to just start him on three days’ rest for the first time in his career—he fell victim to the long ball as well, with Ozzie Albies smacking a two-run shot to make it 5-0 in the fourth.
In a bit of a curious managerial decision, Braves ace Chris Sale came out of the bullpen to record the final fours in a four-run ballgame. It was a cool moment in theory for him to strike out Bryce Harper and then finish the job in the ninth, but it’ll be interesting to see how this affects their pitching plans in the Division Series, when they’ll have to contend with the mighty Dodgers, too.
