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Warriors coaching rumors: Candidates to replace Steve Kerr if deal isn't reached

Nothing is set in stone regarding a potential coaching change for the Golden State Warriors. Whether Steve Kerr will stay or go is yet to be determined. For now, he is still the coach.

It may remain that way, it may not.

If this does mark the end of Kerr's tenure, it would be the first time the Warriors were in search of a head coach since May 2014, when they let go of Mark Jackson three days after losing to the Los Angeles Clippers in seven games in the first round of the playoffs. Kerr was hired eight days after Jackson was fired.

Should Kerr and the Warriors decide to not continue into a 13th season together, Golden State's coaching carousel begins ... and there are a number of ideal candidates.

Here are coaches the Warriors could look at if Kerr isn't brought back:

Potential Warriors coaching candidates

There are a number of coaches whose names will be thrown in the hat if Kerr doesn't return. Here's who could appear in the conversation:

Terry Stotts

Stotts is currently the Warriors' lead assistant coach. He is familiar with the guys, having coached in Golden State since 2024. He finished a Jan. 5 game as head coach against the Clippers after Kerr was ejected. Stotts was last a head coach with the Portland Trail Blazers from 2012 to 2021. They were a perennial playoff team, and made a Western Conference finals appearance in 2019, where they lost to Kerr's Warriors.

Jerry Stackhouse

Stackhouse, another Warriors assistant coach since 2024, would seemingly be a candidate to succeed Kerr as Warriors coach. Stackhouse hasn't been a head coach in the NBA, but was the head coach at Vanderbilt prior to joining Golden State, from 2019 to 2024. Stackhouse was a two-time All-Star in 18 NBA seasons. He can relate to every player, from stars to role players.

Golden State Warriors assistant coach Jerry Stackhouse (center) gestures during the second quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center.

Mike Brown

We're not going to fill this list completely with former Warriors assistant coaches. And Brown is currently the head coach of the New York Knicks, who are in a playoff series with the Atlanta Hawks. The Warriors probably aren't thinking about him right now, and Brown definitely isn't thinking of the Warriors. Plus, Brown was hired just last summer on a four-year, $40 million deal. So, you can probably cross Brown's name off the list ... unless he's shockingly fired.

Doc Rivers

Newly elected Hall of Fame coach Doc Rivers recently told Andscape's Marc J. Spears it was his decision to step down from his head coaching position with the Milwaukee Bucks and that he's probably coached his last game. However, the championship-winning, veteran coach's name is always in conversations. If the conversation shifted towards him coaching future Hall of Famers like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, he'd have to consider, right?

Tiago Splitter

Keep an eye on what Splitter has done with Portland. He was named interim head coach following head coach Chauncey Billups' arrest as part of a federal investigation into an allegedly rigged high-stakes poker scheme. Splitter coached the Trail Blazers to a 42-40 record and they're in a battle with the No. 2-seed San Antonio Spurs, with the series tied at 1. There's been some interesting reporting about Splitter and new Blazers owner Tom Dundon, though.

ESPN's Ramona Shelburne reported that Splitter is "trying to be a pro" even as Dundon is reportedly shopping for head coaches to potentially replace Splitter. Dundon supposedly offered Splitter the Blazers head coaching position, but reportedly lowballed Splitter. Maybe Joe Lacob and Mike Dunleavy can persuade Splitter to join Golden State if Portland doesn't work out.

Todd Golden

The Warriors will plan to pursue University of Florida head coach Todd Golden if Kerr does not return, according to Yahoo Sports' Kevin O'Connor.

Golden coached at the University of San Francisco for three seasons before leaving for Florida and reportedly has a relationship with Warriors owner Joe Lacob and his family.

Andre Iguodala

Iguodala is a former Warrior who won four championships with the franchise and was named the 2015 Finals MVP. He's been an All-Star and played a veteran role mentoring young guys, especially during the Warriors' 2022 championship run, which birthed an iconic meme during the NBA Finals in a teaching moment with Andrew Wiggins.

Although it would be fun and would make a good story, realistically Iguodala isn't high on the list ... or maybe even on the list, according to The SF Standard's Tim Kawakami, who called Iguodala his "outside-the-envelope candidate."

Mark Jackson

Nostalgia alone is enough to keep Jackson's name circulating among Warriors coaching rumors. He helped pioneer the Warriors' run over a decade ago. Now that their run appears to be over, a reunion may seem fitting, but probably won't happen.

Billy Donovan

Donovan is on the market. He's a veteran coach who's worked with stars before and has a history of developing young talent, having won two national championships at Florida in 2006 and 2007. The Chicago Bulls announced on April 21 that Donovan would be stepping down as Bulls coach. What's next? Could it be the Bay Area?

Micah Nori

Nori is currently a Minnesota Timberwolves assistant coach. He has been adorned for how he connects with superstars and his bravado during in-game interviews. In Minnesota, he's connected with Anthony Edwards. In his previous stop, Denver, he was tight with Nikola Jokic. With his ability to connect with others, a first-time head coaching position could be in his future.

Chris Quinn

Quinn is the longest tenured Miami Heat assistant coach. He's been in the role since 2015, where he's helped the Heat form one of the best player development systems. It seems natural Quinn would wait to succeed Erik Spoelstra, but what if that opportunity doesn't come and one does with the Warriors? Why wouldn't Quinn go for his first top job?

Sean Sweeney

Sweeney has developed a repertoire of having success in scouting and developing talent with the San Antonio Spurs. He also brings Finals experience, having been an assistant with the Dallas Mavericks during their run in 2024. A leap from assistant coach to head coach would be daunting for Sweeney, but who wouldn't welcome the challenge?

Johnnie Bryant

Bryant is an assistant coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers. He was a candidate for the Cavs coaching job before Kenny Atkinson was hired. He was a candidate for the Phoenix Suns before they opted for Jordan Ott. Bryant has been high on many lists, so if the Warriors are serious about not bringing Kerr back, expect Bryant's name to surface as a candidate.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Steve Kerr, Warriors coaching rumors, potential candidates

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Suns' Devin Booker lashes out at refs after Game 2 loss to Thunder

The Phoenix Suns already have a tall task in trying to knock off the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder in the opening round of this year's playoffs.

Star guard Devin Booker says the referees are making it even more difficult.

The normally reserved Booker was hit with a technical foul in the third quarter of the Suns' 120-107 loss in Game 2 of their series on Wednesday, April 22, for complaining about the officiating.

"It's definitely something that has to be looked at," Booker told reporters after the game. "I heard (the Thunder's Alex) Caruso tell them to call the tech and he ended up doing it. In my 11 years, I haven't called a ref out by name, but James (Williams) was terrible tonight."

Booker was particularly upset with a sequence in the second quarter in which he was called for an offensive foul on a drive to the basket, then on the next possession, Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander drew a foul on a Suns defender on an eerily similar play.

"Whatever I get fined for, everybody can pull the clips and see where the frustration comes from," Booker said.

Booker is far from the first to raise the issue of officials' calls favoring the Thunder, and reigning league MVP Gilgeous-Alexander in particular.

"He a little frail, and that's what the refs are going to call," said Suns forward Dillon Brooks, who fouled out of Game 2 with 25 seconds remaining.

"Like, I used to watch this back when Michael Jordan was playing or whoever else, when LeBron was younger. This is physical basketball. I don't get why all the dropping and the falling and the flopping and the flailing and all this stuff is allowed when we get to the playoffs."

Last month, New York Knicks coach Mike Brown issued a similar complaint.

"SGA, he’s a tough cover," Brown told reporters after the Knicks' loss to the Thunder on March 4. "And he does a great job of convincing the referees – probably better than anybody in the league – that he’s getting hit."

Gilgeous-Alexander brushed off the criticism as the top-seeded Thunder took a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.

"I can't control what Dillon or anybody else on the other side is going to complain about," the Thunder star said after scoring a game-high 37 points and making all nine of his free throw attempts. "All I can do is try to go out there and win basketball games for my team."

Game 3 is set for Saturday, April 25, in Phoenix.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Devin Booker rips referee by name for calls in Suns-Thunder Game 2

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Phoenix finds tactical clarity through pace despite Game 2 loss

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 22: Dillon Brooks #3 of the Phoenix Suns dribbles the ball during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round 1 Game 2 of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 22, 2026 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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 Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Phoenix Suns were looking to bounce back in Game 2 in Oklahoma City, and while a 13-point loss does not scream “bounce back,” it kind of was. The adjustments showed up. The competitiveness showed up. It looked more like a real game.

The first change was obvious. Pace. Phoenix pushed it. That matters against the Oklahoma City Thunder, because living in the half-court against that defense is a tough way to survive. They are too connected, too disruptive, and too quick on closeouts. When the Suns played faster, moving the ball after makes and misses, it created cleaner looks. It worked, especially in the first half.

The third quarter hurt. Oklahoma City came out of the locker room and took control, outscoring Phoenix 35-20. The aggression ramped up, the game tilted, and the lead pushed to 22. It felt like it could get away from them.

Then the fourth happened. For the first time in a while, the Suns dictated something late. Pace. Physicality. Energy. They fought back and cut it to nine. Dillon Brooks set the tone with his aggression, and Devin Booker followed. Jalen Green tried to find it, but could not, going 1-of-6 in the quarter. Khaman Maluach played the entire fourth, and that is something worth circling moving forward.

More than anything, the Suns showed fight again. The kind that defined them early in the season. The kind that had faded in the final two months of the season. It showed up when it mattered most, and it reminded you of what this group can look like when they lean into their identity. Outscoring OKC 30-20 in the fourth was something.

They head back to Phoenix for Game 3 feeling better about where they are. Whether that turns into a win is another question. But for a night, it felt like the Suns again.

Bright Side Baller Season Standings

Wow. How bad was Game 1? Rasheer Fleming played 7:34 minutes of garbage time. He went 3-of-3 from the field, scoring 9 points in his postseason debut. And that was enough, with over 200 votes, to easily win the Bright Side Baller of the Game. I think that alone tells you where this fan base is.

Bright Side Baller Nominees

Game 86 (Game 2) against the Thunder. Here are your nominees:

Dillon Brooks
30 points (12-of-23, 5-of-9 3PT), 6 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 turnover, -11 +/-

Devin Booker
22 points (7-of-14, 0-of-3 3PT), 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 8-of-10 FT, 5 turnovers, -12 +/-

Jalen Green
21 points (8-of-23, 1-of-8 3PT), 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 7 turnovers, -12 +/-

Royce O’Neale
16 points (4-of-5, 4-of-5 3PT), 9 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 2 turnovers, -4 +/-

Collin Gillespie
7 points (3-of-9, 1-of-5 3PT), 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals, 2 turnovers, -14 +/-

Oso Ighodaro
7 points (3-of-8), 8 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 turnovers, 1 block, -23 +/-

Cast your vote.

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Benching Jakob Poeltl makes sense for Raptors, but hasn’t helped close gap with Cavs

CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 18: Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers dunks over Jakob Poeltl #19 of the Toronto Raptors during the second quarter of Game One of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena on April 18, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images

INDEPENDENCE — The Toronto Raptors made their first major lineup adjustment of the series against the Cleveland Cavaliers when they decided to bench their typical starting center, Jakob Poeltl, for the entire second half in Game 2. Instead, they opted to go small with the 6’7” Collin Murray-Boyles and the 6’9” Sandro Mamukelashvili nominally playing the five.

After Game 2, Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković said that the idea behind going smaller was to provide a different look defensively. “We wanted to be able to switch more in the pick-and-roll.”

That idea made sense, but didn’t work out well for Toronto.

Instead of feasting on Poeltl in the pick-and-roll, the Cavs were able to attack and hunt out mismatches by forcing switches on screens. This was seen most clearly in how James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, and Evan Mobley all attacked Brandon Ingram whenever matched up against him. And without a center, there wasn’t additional help defense waiting to bail Ingram out.

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The numbers highlight this problem. Toronto has had an abysmal 128.1 defensive rating (0th percentile) in the 128 possessions they’ve played without Poeltl. The defense hasn’t been stellar with Poeltl, it’s been considerably better (117.7 defensive rating, 22nd percentile).

Despite Cleveland’s success, Jarrett Allen wasn’t able to take advantage of Toronto’s smaller front line. He registered just four points in the second half and wasn’t included in the team’s closing lineup despite being guarded by a much smaller RJ Barrett.

Despite not making an impact as a scorer, head coach Kenny Atkinson liked what he saw from Allen.

“These are the little sacrifices you have to make,” Atkinson said after practice on Wednesday. “Obviously, we got to reward him if they’re going to go small and get him down on the mismatches, but he sacrificed himself with screening.”

Allen did do a good job as a screener. He had a game-high six screen assists, leading to 16 points.

Atkinson said that he wants to keep Allen in the dunker’s spot against some of these smaller lineups. This would allow him to clean up missed shots and potentially finish lobs if the help defense steps up.

“I give him a 10-out-of-10 in terms of understanding that and then sacrificing for the squad,” Atkinson said. “After I watched the film, [I realized] this guy is way more impactful than even I think. His impact is monumental for the team.”

It’ll be interesting to see if the Cavs can get Allen more involved against these smaller lineups.

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Despite not helping Toronto’s defense, going smaller did jump-start the offense.

“[It] probably increases their transition offensive rate,” Atkinson said. “They’re going to double down on their speed.”

The smaller lineups have, in fact, done so.

Toronto is getting out in transition on 14.8% of their offensive possessions (93rd percentile) this series without Poeltl on the floor. That’s up from the 11.1% of possessions in transition (24th percentile) when he’s playing. This has all resulted in the offense being better in these smaller lineups.

“It makes them space the floor a little more and makes them play faster,” Max Strus said. “It’s a new thing that we’re gonna have to figure out, and I think we did some things to prepare for it today.”

The Cavs came into this series talking about needing to keep the Raptors from running in the open court. They’ve succeeded at that front in the first two games of the series, and will need to do so again if they want to steal a game in Toronto or potentially end the series there.

Going smaller hasn’t produced considerably better results for Toronto. They’re just 0.5 points per 100 possessions better with Poeltl off the court, and have registered a -12.5 net rating. That isn’t going to get it done.

Even though benching Poeltl may be the best move for the Raptors, it isn’t going to close the talent gap that we’ve seen through the first two games, at least not on its own. They need better performances from their best players — mainly Brandon Ingram — and hope that the Cavs’ stars cool off.

Despite how stress-free the first two games have been, the Cavs aren’t taking anything for granted as the series shifts north of the border.

“The series hasn’t even started yet until you go on the road,” Strus said. “So we got to come in with an aggressive mindset, just like we treated games one and two, and play our best basketball.”

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Open Thread: Victor Wembanyama’s 48-hour protocol expires Thursday evening

It was hard to watch on Tuesday as Victor Wembanyama collided with Jrue Holiday just minutes into the second quarter. Upon impact, Wemby lost his balance and landed face first onto the hardwood. In the immediate aftermath, it was unclear if Wemby had been knocked unconscious. After a few moments, he turned around appearing to stand up, only to need another moment to regain his composure.

Dusty Garza with Spurs Reporter posted this doctor’s opinion:

As Shams Charania reported, Wemby’s 48 hours began immediately after the diagnosis. He is being re-evaluated and monitored. As of this post, the 2-days ends this evening, Thursday, April 23rd at arounf 8:00 p.m.

Wemby is hoping to travel with the Spurs in the event he is available to play in either game 3 or game 4, but no decision will be available until he’s been fully checked out and given the go ahead.

Dr. Brian Sutterer, who independently analyzes sports injuries for his own YouTube channel, posted this video:

According to NBA protocol, which is less stringent than the NFL, Wemby “theoretically, could come back for game 3,” but the doctor states that he doesn’t think that time should be the only metric used in making the decision.

If past is prologue, the Spurs will not release any information until necessary and will not play Victor Wembanyama until it is believed he is in the right physical and emotional state and that his injury won’t hamper his playing ability or harm him.

Welcome to the Thread. Join in the conversation, start your own discussion, and share your thoughts. This is the Spurs community, your Spurs community. Thanks for being here.

Our community guidelines apply which should remind everyone to be cool, avoid personal attacks, not to troll and to watch the language.

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Phillies News: J.T. Realmuto, Clearwater, Lucas Giolito

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 13: J.T. Realmuto #10 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on against the Chicago Cubs at Citizens Bank Park on April 13, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Phillies defeated the Cubs 13-7. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Phillies have been bad and unlucky to start the season. Now they can officially add “injured” to that list of grievances, as J.T. Realmuto was placed on the injured list with back spasms, joining the likes of Jhoan Duran, Jonathan Bowlan, and Zach Pop who were already on the IL. Get ready for a whole lot more Rafael Marchán and some Garrett Stubbs.

On to the links.

Phillies news:

MLB news:

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Orioles news: Holliday’s MRI, another comeback win

Apr 22, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles left fielder Colton Cowser (17) and center fielder Leody Taveras (30) and right fielder Dylan Beavers (12) celebrate in the outfield after the win over the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images | Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Hello, friends.

The Orioles have escaped Kansas City with a series win after pulling off a comeback to get an 8-6 victory in yesterday’s game, bringing themselves back within a game of .500. The Royals broke a long losing streak with their win on Tuesday but remain in the basement of the American League. You could maybe say that it would have been better if the O’s really embarrassed the worst team, which they didn’t do. Still, they won two of three, and they showed some resilience in doing it, so that’s something. Check out Paul Folkemer’s recap of the game for more of the lovely totals.

One thing I think that we can hope for coming out of that series is that the signs of life from Samuel Basallo and Coby Mayo at the plate continue. Mayo, in particular, had a pair of three-run homers over the course of the series. Struggling outfielders Dylan Beavers and Colton Cowser had two hits apiece in Wednesday’s game as well. The problems that the team has had so far will seem a lot easier to overcome if these guys are able to start hitting at least decently.

Less positive is the continuing struggle of this year’s edition of the veteran starting pitcher signing, Chris Bassitt. The team spotted him a five-run lead yesterday after scoring six runs in the top of the sixth inning and Bassitt still couldn’t get through the bottom of the inning without making things way more interesting. He gave up a home run to the first batter he saw after the big O’s offensive outburst. In all, Bassitt gave up five runs in 5.1 innings to raise his season ERA to 6.75 after five starts.

It’s not quite Charlie Morton territory. Morton had a 10.89 ERA after the same number of games, after which he got dumped from the rotation. With each of Cade Povich and Brandon Young starting off well for Triple-A Norfolk, I understand the impulse to do the same for Bassitt. I doubt that the Orioles will, at least not unless this drags out for a longer at this level of bad results. Maybe another five starts. At least we don’t have to worry about him for a few more days.

There’s a little Orioles injury news that will probably hang in limbo over the off day today. Jackson Holliday was sent back to Baltimore yesterday for an MRI on his hand after his latest rehab stint was shut down following an uncomfortable swing in Norfolk. There was no news about it after yesterday’s game and there probably won’t be in the off day either. We’ll have to wait until tomorrow to find out if there are any updates to be had there – or with any of the other injured O’s who might be back any day now or might just keep on lingering.

The Orioles will next be in action on Friday night at home against the Red Sox starting at 7:05. As of this writing, there is not a scheduled starter for the Orioles. If they don’t use the off day to skip Dean Kremer’s turn, then it will be Kremer who would be on turn to make the start. The Red Sox will send out Brayan Bello, who’s struggled to begin the 2026 season. This does not necessarily mean anything where the enigmatic Orioles offense is concerned.

Orioles stuff you might have missed

Orioles place Helsley on family leave/bereavement list, recall Espada (Baltimore Baseball)
There was a roster move ahead of yesterday’s game, with the closer leaving for a few days for the family medical or bereavement leave list. The team did not announce the specific circumstances. If it is a medical situation, I wish the best for it turning out well. If it’s bereavement, condolences to the family.

Jeremiah Jackson is getting his hacks in (FanGraphs)
The folks at FanGraphs have taken notice of the strong start by an unlikely Oriole. Now that Jackson’s BABIP luck has reached a more stable place, what might he do the rest of the way?

How Tyler Wells’s new mental approach is helping with life in the bullpen (The Baltimore Banner)
Wells had a great outing yesterday, with 1.2 innings scoreless. That’s heading in the right direction.

Birthdays and Orioles anniversaries

Today in 1994, future Hall of Famer Lee Smith picked up his ninth save of the season in the 16th game played by the Orioles. This was a new MLB record for fastest to nine saves. The Orioles beat the Mariners, 4-3, as Smith got his save. He did not allow a run over 12 April appearances that year.

In their 25th game one year ago, the Orioles lost to the Tigers, 4-3, in the first game of a doubleheader, to fall to 10-15 on the season. Jordan Westburg, Ryan O’Hearn, and Ramón Urías all had three hits in the losing effort for the O’s. For the time being, the 2026 edition of the team is doing two games better than those guys.

There are a few former Orioles who were born on this day. They are: 2022 pitcher Louis Head, 2009 pitcher Sean Henn, and 1957 infielder Buddy Peterson.

Is today your birthday? Happy birthday to you! Your birthday buddies for today include: playwright William Shakespeare (1564), 15th president James Buchanan (1791), physicist Max Planck (1858), baseball Hall of Famer Warren Spahn (1921), actress Shirley Temple (1928), musician Roy Orbison (1936), wrestler/actor John Cena (1977), comedian/host John Oliver (1977), baseball Hall of Famer Andruw Jones (1977), and gold medal snowboarder Chloe Kim (2000).

On this day in history…

In 1014, the Irish, led by High King Brian Boru, repelled a Viking invasion in the Battle of Clontarf, though Brian Boru himself was killed in the battle.

In 1635, the Boston Latin School was founded. Still in operation continuously on through today, this school is recognized as the first public school in what is now the United States.

In 1985, Coca-Cola released New Coke, a change to its formula. Within three months, they brought back the previous Coca-Cola formula. New Coke survived as Coke II through 2002.

In 2005, the first YouTube video was posted. One of its co-founders released a video titled “Me at the zoo”.

**

And that’s the way it is in Birdland on April 23. Have a safe Thursday.

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Mets Daily Prospect Report, 4/23/26: St. Lucie saves the day

Feb 17, 2026; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets infielder Jacob Reimer (98) throws the ball during the New York Mets spring training workouts at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-Imagn Images | Reinhold Matay-Imagn Images

Triple-A: Syracuse Mets (12-10)

Worcester 7, Syracuse 6 (BOX)

Starter Brandon Waddell had a slow start to the game, allowing three first inning runs. He would settle down in his next two frames, handing off a 3-0 deficit to the bullpen. The score stayed 3-0 until the fifth, when Ji Hwan Bae doubled home two to make it 3-2. Jackson Cluff hit a three run home run in the sixth to make it 5-3 Mets. Both clubs traded runs in the bottom of the seventh and the top of the eight, giving Syracuse a 6-4 lead heading into the eighth inning.

The eighth inning saw the bullpen start to fall apart, as they surrendered a run in the eighth. Eventually, they would blow the game completely, getting walked off in the bottom of the ninth.

  • RF Nick Morabito: 0-2, R, 3 BB, K, 2 SB
  • DH Ji Hwan Bae: 2-5, 2B, 3 RBI
  • 3B Ronny Mauricio: 0-4, BB, K
  • LF Ryan Clifford: 0-3, 2 BB, 2 K
  • SS Vidal Bruján: 1-4, R, BB, K, E (4)
  • CF Cristian Pache: 2-4, R, 2B, BB, SB (5)
  • 2B Jackson Cluff: 2-4, 2 R, HR (3), 3 RBI, BB, K, SB (2)
  • 1B Trace Willhoite: 1-3, R, 2B, BB, K
  • C Onix Vega: 1-4
  • LHP Brandon Waddell: 3.0 IP, 4 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 0 BB, 3 K, 1 WP
  • RHP Jonathan Pintaro: 3.0 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 1 K
  • REHAB ALERT: LHP A.J. Minter: 1.0 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 0 K, H (1)
  • RHP Ryan Lambert: 0.2 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 1 K, H (4)
  • RHP Alex Carrillo: 0.2 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 2 K, 1 WP, L (1-1), H (1)
  • RHP Daniel Duarte: 0.1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 0 K, BS (2)

Double-A: Binghamton Rumble Ponies (6-10)

Erie 8, Binghamton 1 (BOX)

Will Watson, the 2024 seventh round pick who burst onto the scene with a 2.60 ERA across three levels last year, continued his slow start to the 2026 campaign. He surrendered a three run home run in the second, another run in the third, and it was academic from there for Erie.

The two bright spots on the day for the Rumble Ponies are Eli Serrano, who pushed his season OPS to .942 and drove in their only run with a double, and Jacob Reimer, who has struggled mightily this year, but went 4-4 on the day.

  • CF A.J. Ewing: 0-4, K
  • SS Marco Vargas: 0-4, 2 K
  • 3B Jacob Reimer: 4-4, R, 2B
  • C Chris Suero: 1-4, K
  • LF Eli Serrano III: 1-3, 2B, RBI, BB, K
  • RF Jose Ramos: 0-4, K
  • DH Kevin Parada: 1-3, BB
  • 1B Nick Lorusso: 0-4, 3 K
  • 2B Wyatt Young: 0-3, 2 K
  • RHP Will Watson: 5.1 IP, 6 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 1 BB, 6 K, L (0-3)
  • LHP Felipe De La Cruz: 1.2 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 1 K, 1 HBP
  • RHP Zach Peek: 1.0 IP, 1 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 2 BB, 0 K, 1 HBP
  • RHP Saul Garcia: 1.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 1 K

High-A: Brooklyn Cyclones (4-12)

Hudson Valley 4, Brooklyn 3 (BOX)

Brooklyn continued to struggle in 2026, dropping their 12 game over their first 16. They actually led this game 2-0 after one, with Corey Collins and Ronald Hernandez driving in the runs with a sacrifice fly and double respectively. Hudson Valley slowly but surely chipped away at the small lead, and eventually led the game themselves by a score of 3-2 after four. A John Bay single would tie it in the sixth, and that score would hold until the ninth inning, when Bryce Jenkins would surrender a walk off home run.

  • 2B Mitch Voit: 0-3, R, BB, 2 SB (3, 4)
  • SS Antonio Jimenez: 0-4, K
  • DH Daiverson Gutierrez: 1-3, 2 R, 2 K
  • 1B Corey Collins: 0-3, RBI, K
  • C Ronald Hernandez: 1-4, 2B, RBI, K, E (3)
  • CF John Bay: 1-4, RBI, K
  • 3B Colin Houck: 1-3, BB, K
  • RF Yohairo Cuevas: 1-3, BB, K
  • LF Kevin Villavicencio: 0-3, K, E (2)
  • RHP Noah Hall: 3.0 IP, 5 H, 3 R, 2 ER, 4 BB, 4 K, 1 HBP
  • RHP Parker Carlson: 2.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 0 K
  • RHP Cristofer Gomez: 2.0 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 2 K
  • RHP Bryce Jenkins: 1.0 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 0 K, L (0-1)

Single-A: St. Lucie Mets (9-8)

St. Lucie 5, Palm Beach 2 (BOX)

A win! The only win in the organization besides THE METS WHO SNAPPED THEIR 12 GAME LOSING STREAK(!!!).

St. Lucie actually trailed 2-0 after a two run home run in the second inning, but starter Frank Camarillo settled down from there to deliver five innings of two run ball. The Mets tied the game in the bottom of the fourth with RBI singles by JT Benson and Branny De Oleo. Julio Zayas gave tgem the lead with a double in the seventh, AJ Salgado added a run with a sacrifice fly, and Sam Biller added another insurance run with a double of his own. The St. Lucie pen was nearly perfect surrendering just two hits and a walk.

  • SS Elian Peña: 1-3, R, 2 BB, K
  • 2B Sam Robertson: 0-4, R, 2 K
  • 1B Randy Guzman: 0-3, BB, 2 K
  • DH Julio Zayas: 2-4, 2B, RBI, K
  • RF AJ Salgado: 0-3, R, RBI, 2 K, SB (2)
  • CF JT Benson: 1-4, R, RBI, SB (3)
  • C Chase Meggers: 0-1, R, 3 BB, K
  • LF Sam Biller: 1-2, 2B, RBI, BB, K, SB (5)
  • 3B Branny De Oleo: 1-4, RBI, 2 K, E (2)
  • RHP Frank Camarillo: 5.0 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 1 BB, 5 K
  • LHP Nate Lavender: 1.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K
  • RHP Elwis Mijares: 2.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 2 K, W (2-0)
  • RHP Tyler McLoughlin: 1.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K, WP (1), S (1)

Rookie: FCL Mets (0-0)

NO GAME (SCHEDULE)

STAR OF THE NIGHT

Jacob Reimer

GOAT OF THE NIGHT

Nick Lorusso

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Thursday’s Brotherhood Playoff News & Links

Dec 28, 2022; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Orlando Magic center Wendell Carter Jr. (34) shoots on Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren (0) in the first half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

In Wednesday’s Brotherhood Playoff Action, Detroit beat Orlando, 98-83, and OKC tamed Phoenix, 120-107.

Detroit didn’t have too much trouble with Orlando in this one, though Paolo Banchero scored 18 points and also had 6 rebounds and 8 assists.

With just three points, Wendell Carter didn’t have a great game, though his rivalry with Jalen Duren livened things up. Carter is dating Angel Reese, while Duren used to as well. Things might get a bit heated, obviously, and they did.

The Thunder took a 2-0 lead on Phoenix, but the Suns are still without Mark Williams and Grayson Allen, both out with injuries.

Khaman Maluach got 19 minutes, scoring 4 points and grabbing 2 boards.

On Thursday, we’ll see Quin Snyder’s Hawks take on the New York Knicks. Tyrese Proctor and the Cleveland Cavaliers will see the Toronto Raptors, featuring RJ Barrett and Brandon Ingram. Finally, Tyus Jones and the Denver Nuggets will challenge the Timberwolves.

Go to the DBR Boards to find Blue Healer Auctions || Drop us a line

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New England coach McDermott backs Connor and criticises Wane’s ‘unfair’ treatment

  • Super League Man of Steel central to World Cup plans

  • McDermott: ‘We can win it; absolutely we can win it’

Brian McDermott, the new England head coach, has insisted that Super League’s reigning Man of Steel, Jake Connor, is central to his plans for this year’s World Cup, before appearing to attack the treatment of the Leeds Rhinos half-back by his predecessor Shaun Wane.

McDermott was unveiled on Thursday as England’s coach on a short-term deal for the tournament in Australia this autumn. The former Leeds and London coach is now working in the NRL as an assistant for Gold Coast Titans and saw off competition from Sam Burgess to be named as Wane’s successor.

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De’Anthony Melton’s expected free agent market may lead to his leaving Warriors

SACRAMENTO, CA - APRIL 10: De'Anthony Melton #8 and Gary Payton II #0 of the Golden State Warriors look on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on April 10, 2026 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. 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 Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

One of the best value contracts on the Warriors last season was De’Anthony Melton, who averaged 12.3 points and 1.6 steals in 49 games, for just under $3.1M. After proving he’d recovered nicely from his ACL tear early in the 2024-25 season, a Warriors insider suggested that Melton will have teams planning to offer him more than a one-year minimum deal.

Melton signed with the Warriors for $12.8M before the 2024-25 season, but suffered an ACL tear in his sixth game with the team. The team traded him for Dennis Schroder, then flipped Schroder in the trade for Jimmy Butler, while Melton spent the season rehabbing. He came back to Golden State on a make-good minimum contract, eventually debuting on Dec. 4.

He made good. Melton played 49 out of 60 games since his return, mainly due to sitting out one half of their back-to-backs. His outside shooting was pretty bad, going 29.4% from three-point range, but some of his shooting decline was due to having to shoot off the dribble and create his own shot more when the Warriors stars were out. Melton has been an excellent role player for some very good teams, the Memphis Grizzlies and Philadelphia 76ers, and last season indicated he could do it again.

At the very least, Melton should be able to get a two-year deal at the taxpayer mid-level exception, which would be roughly twice the years and twice the money of his 2026-27 player option.

Does that mean he’ll leave the Warriors? Honestly, the only player who seems certain to be a member of the 2026-27 Warriors is Wardell Stephen Curry. While the Warriors would probably love to have Melton back, their may be a limit to what they’d love to pay him.

Melton would probably love to get more financial security. The Warriors may no longer be in a position to offer that, nor can they entice veterans with the chance to compete for titles. Or, realistically, the chance to compete for guaranteed playoff seeds. If a quality role player wants to take a discount for a real shot at playing not one, but two play-in tournament games? Then welcome to the Chase Center!

Golden State already has a lot of free-agent decisions to make on players ranging from Kristaps Porzingis to Gui Santos to Gary Payton II. All signs are pointing to Melton joining that uncertain group.

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Anthony Mantha is making the Penguins decision easy for them

Apr 20, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Dan Vladar (80) makes a save as Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Anthony Mantha (39) looks for a rebound during the third period in game two of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images | Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

There is not any one player or person that is responsible for the Pittsburgh Penguins 3-0 series deficit. It has been a well-earned, collective group effort that everybody has to own. The Penguins have allowed themselves to get suckered into Philadelphia’s game, there is little discipline, they are not in any way adapting to what the Flyers are doing defensively, and Dan Muse has not exactly covered himself in glory in his first big moment on the big stage.

But of all the players that have come up small in this series so far, Anthony Mantha might be one of the most obvious.

It might also be making whatever decision the Penguins have to make with him this summer a lot easier for them.

Coming into the playoffs, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman made mention that Mantha might be one of the most watched players in these playoffs (and that almost certainly includes the Penguins), and it’s not hard to understand why there would be so much interest in him.

He led the team with 33 goals and put together a career year.

He is an unrestricted free agent this summer and is going to be one of the top players available, at least in terms of production this season, in a painfully shallow pool of players.

A big postseason showing, on the heels of that regular season performance, would have certainly opened some eyes across the league. It would have also opened checkbooks.

While you shouldn’t let small sample sizes drive your team-building decisions, the harsh reality is teams put a lot of weight on what you do in the playoffs. Or sometimes what you do not do in the playoffs.

And the latter point is what is going to be the problem for Mantha.

He entered this year’s postseason having scored 0 goals in 14 career playoff games.

He has now played 17 career playoff games and is still stuck on zero goals, while being a complete non-factor in the first three games of the series.

Making matters worse, he took one of the costliest — and most easily avoidable — penalties in recent Penguins playoff history when he inexplicably launched the puck from the defensive zone into the stands over the team’s bench. It was not only a bad penalty to take just because it is such an avoidable play, but also because of the timing. There were only eight minutes remaining in the game. The Penguins were still trailing by a goal, had just scored to make it a one-goal game, and were starting to tilt the ice a little bit. There was some momentum building.

And then it was gone.

And then Philadelphia responded with a power play goal to put the game, and maybe the series, back out of reach.

Given the context of the entire situation, it was just a brutal play.

Mantha was never meant to be a long-term answer for the Penguins when they signed him this past offseason. The plan was almost certainly for him to get put somewhere in the top-six, build up his value by chipping in some goals for a rebuilding team, and then get dealt at the trade deadline for a second-round pick. But both he and the Penguins threw a wrench into that plan. The Penguins by being better than expected and making the playoffs, and Mantha by being their top goal-scorer, with several of them coming in big moments.

As the Penguins inched closer to a playoff spot, and he kept producing, there was no chance they were going to move him in-season.

That eventually led to discussion of a possible extension, especially given the lack of quality free agents on the open market and the amount of salary cap space the Penguins have available to them.

But it’s hard to imagine this performance is making anybody in the Penguins front office excited about the idea of re-investing him, especially given the way this series has played out. It’s almost certainly hurting his standing in the eyes of fans.

Is that a valid response to a three game sample size?

Or is it an overreaction given how good the season as a whole went?

Maybe a little of both. But at some point the Penguins do need to find a way to get younger and faster, and a 32-year-old winger with an injury history that’s been a non-factor in the playoffs, and is probably unlikely to repeat his regular season performance, doesn’t seem to be the way to do that.

I don’t blame the Penguins for not trading him in March, and I am not going to criticize them for that decision. Given the way the season played out and the way expectations changed, it was the right move. The initial signing itself has also been an obvious win. But it might be best to just leave it at that. The tough decision they had this summer is not looking as tough as it did a couple of weeks ago.

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Game 26 Preview: Tigers turn to Skubal to clinch series vs Brewers

The Detroit Tigers managed to bounce back in the second game of their weekday series against the Milwaukee Brewers, earning a 5-2 win behind a strong outing by Casey Mize and Spencer Torkelson’s first home run of the 2026 campaign.

Kenley Jansen made things a bit too exciting in the final frame, giving the fans some José Valverde vibes, but alas, the Motor City Kitties tied things up, setting up Thursday’s rubber match at Comerica Park.

Looking to clinch the series win, Detroit has left-handed ace Tarik Skubal taking the mound. The twice-consecutive Cy Young Award winner last faced Milwaukee on April 14, 2025, throwing seven shutout innings, allowing four hits and no walks while striking out nine in a 9-1 win.

Opposite him is second-year hurler Brandon Sproat, a right-hander who has only thrown 37 2/3 MLB innings so far in his young career, putting up a 5.73 ERA, 1.71 WHIP and a 4.36 FIP over that stretch. Thursday night’s start will be his first-ever appearance against the Tigers.

Take a look below at how the two match up.

Detroit Tigers (13-12) vs. Milwaukee Brewers (13-10)

Time (ET): 1:10 p.m.
Place: Comerica Park, Detroit, Michigan
SB Nation Site:Brew Crew Ball
Media: Detroit SportsNet, MLB.TV, Tigers Radio Network

Game 26: LHP Tarik Skubal (3-2, 2.08 ERA) vs. RHP Brandon Sproat (0-1, 6.88 ERA)

PlayerGIPK%BB%GB%FIPfWAR
Skubal530.128.05.142.92.071.1
Sproat417.021.614.937.86.25-0.3

SKUBAL

SPROAT

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Kentucky Football and Will Stein face MLB Draft hurdle for 4-star QB Matt Ponatoski

matt ponatoski
Moeller senior Matt Ponatoski prepares for a pitch as Moeller defeated Ryle 12-2 in the River Cup during the Skyline Chili Reds Futures Showcase March 29, 2026, at Sycamore High School. | James Weber/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Will Stein and Nick Mingione have been working in tandem to map out just how 4-star quarterback Matt Ponatoski can play baseball and football at Kentucky.

There is just one massive, unavoidable hurdle standing in the way of getting Ponatoski, who has already signed, to campus: the MLB Draft.

The generational profile of Matt Ponatoski

Ponatoski’s resume is the stuff of legend. He was named Mr. Football in Ohio for the 2024 season and was a finalist again in 2025. He also swept the Gatorade Player of the Year awards in both baseball and football for the 2025 season.

He signed early with Kentucky once Will Stein replaced Mark Stoops, locking him in as a possible QB of the future. But when you possess the kind of raw talent Ponatoski does, the lure of turning professional straight out of high school is incredibly strong.

Just how elite is his baseball profile? When he stepped onto the diamond for a recent Perfect Game showcase, scouts tested his arm strength across the infield. Ponatoski unleashed an absolute heater that was clocked at 101 MPH. For context, that is the type of arm strength usually reserved for elite MLB superstars like the Reds’ Elly De La Cruz, except Elly is 24 years old, and Matt is just 18.

The mindset and the money

Currently, MLB scouts are weighing the risk of Ponatoski’s football commitment against his undeniable baseball ceiling. In a recent ESPN mini-mock draft from April 17, Ponatoski was projected to go at No. 69 overall. Factoring in compensation and competitive balance additions, that projection places him as a borderline second-round pick.

For Ponatoski, the decision is a win-win scenario, but it requires serious deliberation.

“I’m going to be fully prepared to go to school and go be at Kentucky and enroll and go compete for a quarterback battle when I get there,” Ponatoski recently said regarding his thought process. “But at the same time, like going and putting my best foot forward to these MLB teams and showing them like I have what it takes for you to draft me.”

“It’s one A and one B,” he continued. “I’m going to go have a great career at Kentucky, or I’m going to go be a professional baseball player. It’s like you can’t draw it up much better.”

Financially, the playing field is surprisingly level. A second-round slot value in the MLB Draft usually guarantees a signing bonus between $1 million and $2 million. In the modern NIL landscape, a 4-star SEC quarterback of his caliber will command a very similar valuation if he decides to honor his commitment to Kentucky.

The timeline

Ultimately, the decision will come down to how MLB front offices evaluate him. If a team falls in love with his 101 MPH arm and he creeps into the first round, the guaranteed money will likely pull him to the minor leagues. If he remains a second or third-round evaluation, returning to Lexington makes all the sense in the world.

The stakes are high because of MLB Draft eligibility rules. If Ponatoski enrolls at a four-year university like Kentucky, he is locked into the college ranks and cannot enter the MLB Draft again until after his junior year or until he turns 21, whichever comes first.

He is currently not on campus and plans to join the football team in the fall if he chooses the collegiate route. The MLB Draft takes place from July 11-12 in Philadelphia. After being selected, Ponatoski will have to choose to either sign or go to college. He may also let teams know ahead of time that he is going to college, so no one drafts him. Either way, we will finally know if Kentucky’s dual-sport dream will become a reality soon.

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Can Cam Schlittler surpass the hype tonight?

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 17: Cam Schlittler #31 of the New York Yankees looks on before the game against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium on April 17, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by New York Yankees/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Yankees have stormed Fenway and taken their first series meeting with the Red Sox, and now they stand on the precipice of opening the season series up with a sweep. Their pitching has kept the Sox shut down thus far, tossing a shutout in the first game and allowing a single run in the ninth inning of game two. While the two teams have been on different trajectories to start the year, this matchup has only furthered the gap with a chance to punt them further down into the cellar of the AL East.

Now the baton passes over to Cam Schlittler to get the job done, and while it’s nowhere near the same scenario as the last time he lined up against them there’s a familiar vibe to this start. Schlittler was the man most responsible for ending Boston’s season last year, pitching eight shutout innings in Game 3 of the AL Wild Card Series and striking out a dozen batters in the process. This time around the Sox aren’t dead in the water if they lose, but a poor April can doom a team in this division especially when you tip the season series heavily in the favor of a team that you know you’ll be chasing all year. They certainly can’t be thrilled that they’re facing the young phenom here in this moment, even if the thought of revenge is on most of their batters’ minds.

That outing was by far the highlight of Schlittler’s 2025 season, as he delivered a generational postseason performance for the Yankees’ staff. He was excellent in his regular season starts, earning his way into the circle of trust for an October outing in the first place despite debuting midway through the year, but no one could have expected him to go out and carve up Boston. Now the expectations have heightened considerably for him in his sophomore season, and he’s somehow managing to deliver. He’s the owner of a sparkling 1.95 ERA thus far, but his FIP is even more outstanding at 0.87 — that’s the kind of potential that the Yankees haven’t seen out of a pitching prospect in ages, and it’s coming closer to fruition with each successful start. Add onto that how down-trodden the Sox currently look offensively, and there’s a perfect storm building for the brooms to kick up a lot of dust as they get brought out.

Baseball rarely plays to expectations, though. The better a team plays, the more surprising the random pitfalls that they go through become. And even the best teams are going to drop dozens of games that make you scratch your head and wonder “how did they lose that?” So with the stage set for Schlittler to take it to his hometown team once more, will he live up to that hype? Can he manage to beat it even? Or will the Sox protect their pride and answer back, adding another page into this chapter of the rivalry?

Today on the site, we’ve got a full schedule leading up to the series finale. Peter starts us off by looking at Luis Gil’s recent stellar outing against the Sox for the Sequence of the Week, and then I’ll handle the Rivalry Roundup. Jeff wishes newly-minted Hall of Famer Andruw Jones a happy birthday and reminisces on his playing career, John muses on the modern bullpen building methods that the Yankees have deployed, Kento considers the recent wave of early extensions that teams have been handing out and how it tempers the ability to rely on free agent retooling, and Peter returns to examine the resurgence of the sinker in the Yankee organization.

Today’s Matchup

New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox

Time: 6:10 p.m. EST

Video: YES Network, NESN+, FS1

Venue: Fenway Park, Boston, MA