2026 MLB Awards Tracker: Power Rankings, betting odds for MVP, Cy Young: Caminero, Rasmussen closing the gap

The All-Star break is a week away and we've settled on the fact that Shohei Ohtani and Jacob Misiorowski are the runaway favorites for MVP and Cy Young in the National League as we conclude the first half of the season.

For the American League, well, that is still up in the air. Cam Schlittler and Yordan Alvarez may be leading for now, but there are a pair of teammates making a run for each award. All odds are courtesy of DraftKings.

National League Cy Young Poll

1. Jacob Misiorowski, Milwaukee Brewers (-450)

2026 Stats: 111.0 IP, 10-4, 1.62 ERA, 0.78 WHIP, 167 K, 27 BB, .150 OBA

Jacob Misiorowski became the seventh pitcher in the NL to reach 10 wins after another dominating outing (4-3 win over St. Louis). Misiorowski has back-to-back games with double-digit strikeouts (10, 11) to widen his lead over the rest of the MLB by 30 Ks. There hasn't been a better pitcher in all of baseball as he enters the All-Star break as the only pitcher with a sub 2.00 ERA.

2. Cristopher Sanchez, Philadelphia Phillies (+550)

2026 Stats: 120.1 IP, 10-4, 2.62 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 137 K, 24 BB, .248 OBA

Cristopher Sanchez all but lost the Cy Young in his last start. While there is another half to the season, his showing against the Royals in a 15-1 loss was one he likely wishes everyone would forget about. Sanchez allowed nine earned runs on 12 hits over 3.1 innings (83 pitches), which all were season-worsts, along with one strikeout. The 29-year-old lefty has a 8.22 ERA over his last three starts and a .328 OBA. The All-Star break couldn't come at a better time for Sanchez.

3. Chris Sale, Atlanta Braves (+2500)

2026 Stats: 95.0 IP, 9-6, 2.27 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 112 K, 24 BB, .230 OBA

Chris Sale had himself a July 4th off with a 14-3 win versus the Mets. Sale allowed three earned runs on seven hits and gave up two homers. His three strikeouts were tied for a season-low. Overall, Sale is having a great year. The 37-year-old has 13 games with two or less earned runs out of 16 and the same with walks, plus he's reached at least six innings in 10 starts.

Long Shot: Chase Burns, Cincinnati Reds (+3000)

2026 Stats: 97.2 IP, 10-1, 2.40 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, 116 K, 31 BB, .207 OBA

Chase Burns has one start remaining in the first half of the year versus Philadelphia then he will be pitching in his first-ever All-Star game. Only five pitchers all-time have been drafted and made an All-Star game within two years of being drafted. Paul Skenes was the most recent before Burns achieved this. The 23-year-old is being slept on for Cy Young, but could easily be the No. 3 on this list and soon No. 2 if he keeps stacking wins as the ace for one of the worst defensive teams in the league.

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American League Cy Young Poll

1. Cam Schlittler, New York Yankees (+120)

2026 Stats: 112.0 IP, 9-5, 2.01 ERA, 0.93 WHIP, 131 K, 21 BB, .201 OBA

After giving up a season-high six runs against the Tigers, Cam Schlittler bounced back with one of his best outings of the season. Schlittler tossed 101 pitches over 8.0 innings with eight strikeouts to no walks, one earned run and four hits against the Rays (5-1 win). Schlittler enters his last start before the All-Star break leading the AL in ERA (2.01), and second in WHIP (0.93), OBA (.201), strikeouts (131), innings pitched (112.0), and wins (9).

2. Dylan Cease, Toronto Blue Jays (+220)

2026 Stats: 90.1 IP, 5-4, 2.79 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 137 K, 41 BB, .201 OBA

Dylan Cease recorded his fourth game with no runs allowed this season and totaled nine or more strikeouts for the eighth time. Cease went 7.0 innings versus Seattle in a 2-0 win and gave three hits and zero walks. Cease leads all of baseball in strikeouts (137) and hasn't given up a home run in five straight games (5 on the year).

3. Drew Rasmussen, Tampa Bay Rays (+600)

2026 Stats: 97.0 IP, 7-4, 2.78 ERA, 0.90 WHIP, 96 K, 17 BB, .197 OBA

After having a terrific June with a 0.82 ERA, Drew Rasmussen allowed a season-high five runs and a season-low two strikeouts against the Astros. Rasmussen allowed three total runs over five games, so his recent performance came at a bit of a surprise. Rasmussen draws one more start before the break and it will come against the Yankees. In two starts versus New York, Rasmussen has a 0.00 ERA, .143 OBA, and 13 strikeouts to one walk over 13.0 innings.

Long Shot: Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers (+6000)

2026 Stats: 65.2 IP, 4-4, 3.15 ERA, 0.91 WHIP, 75 K, 8 BB, .216 OBA

Tarik SKubal might have turned the corner after his last start against the Yankees. Skubal tossed 87 pitches over 6.0 innings and recorded nine strikeouts, zero walks, one hit, and one earned run. Skubal now has 30 strikeouts to two walks in his four starts back from injury, but he's surrendered seven home runs and 17 hits over 22.1 innings.

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American League MVP Poll

1. Yordan Alvarez, Houston Astros (-160)

2026 Stats: .318 BA, 29 HR, 67 RBI, 62 R, .426 OBP, 1.056 OPS

Yordan Alvarez is picking right up where he left off. In June, Alvarez hit .344 with 20 runs scored, 21 RBI, and six home runs. To start July, Alvarez is hitting .381 with three homers, seven RBI, and a 1.201 OPS through five games. If the Astros can nab a Wild Card or playoff spot, that would solidify his case, but as of now, Alvarez enters the break as the MVP candidate.

2. Junior Caminero, Tampa Bay Rays (+600)

2026 Stats: .284 BA, 26 HR, 56 RBI, 57 R, .554 SLG, .928 OPS

No one is hitting better than Junior Caminero right now. Caminero is hitting .309 with 11 home runs, 22 RBI, and 13 runs scored over the last 13 games. Caminero's climbed into the MVP conversation and with Tampa Bay in first place of the AL — Caminero is the hottest name in the MVP race.

3. Nick Kurtz, Athletics (+450)

2026 Stats: .275 BA, 20 HR, 66 RBI, 61 R, .415 OBP, .928 OPS

Nick Kurtz is coming off his roughest month of the year. Kurtz hit .250 in June and had as many strikeouts (41) as walks (21) and runs (20) combined. The 23-year-old has struggled with a .178 batting average over his last 45 at-bats opening the door for Bobby Witt and others to creep back into the MVP race. Kurtz will need a big second-half to stay in consideration with how Alvarez and Caminero are playing.

Long shot: Ben Rice, New York Yankees (+2000)

2026 Stats: .267 BA, 25 HR, 57 RBI, 59 R, .565 SLG, .925 OPS

Ben Rice and the Yankees are in a slump. Rice was once the second favorite in terms of odds for MVP, but he's started to fall off a cliff. Rice hit .196 in June and had 30 strikeouts to 11 walks. Without Aaron Judge, Rice has the opportunity to be the short-term face of the New York offense, but it hasn't worked out so far — Rice has been better with Judge.

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National League MVP Poll

1. Shoehi Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers (-1600)

2026 Stats: .295 BA, 19 HR, 55 RBI, 61 R, .410 OBP, .946 OPS

Shohei Ohtani had his best month as hitter in June. Ohtani batted .333 and he finished top five in the NL for OBP (.435), SLG (.656), and OPS (1.091). He hit eight homers, scored 23 runs, and knocked in 19 runs, which were all highs for a month this season.

As a pitcher, Ohtani had his worst month of the season, which wasn't saying much. He posted a 3.28 ERA, .222 OBA, and 25 strikeouts to seven walks over four starts (24.2 innings) — so not bad at all. Ohtani had a 3-0 record as well and no losses, so still a pretty dominant month overall.

2. Pete Crow-Armstrong, Chicago Cubs (+3000)

2026 Stats: .292 BA, 19 HR, 49 RBI, 57 R, 23 SB, .910 OPS

On Rotoworld's Instagram, people were clamoring for Pete Crow-Armstrong to get some MVP love and they're getting it two weeks straight. PCA has climbed to my No. 2 spot as he continues to rake in July.

PCA hit .381 in June with 11 home runs, 20 RBI, 40 hits, and 21 runs scored over 26 games. Over the four games played in July, PCA has six hits, three RBI, three runs scored and batting .500. With how hot he is playing, PCA might be a sleeper to win the All-Star Game MVP.

3. Kyle Schwarber, Philadelphia Phillies (+4000)

2026 Stats: .252 BA, 30 HR, 55 RBI, 55 R, .561 SLG, .930 OPS

Kyle Schwarber's main calling to win MVP is hitting home runs and he's slowed down in that department. Schwarber has one homer in the last 13 games and has gone seven consecutive games without a home run. To start July, Schwarber is batting .176 with three hits over five games, 10 strikeouts, and five walks with no runs or RBI — not exactly MVP-like numbers.

Long Shot: James Wood, Washington Nationals (+6000)

2026 Stats: .268 BA, 24 HR, 60 RBI, 81 R, 14 SB, .398 OBP

James Wood leads a list full of hopefuls for MVP that you could consider a long shot — Juan Soto, Jordan Walker, Bryce Harper, and Corbin Carroll — but the truth is, not of them will likely catch Ohtani, not this year at least.

As we close the chapter that was the first half of the MLB season, it's safe to Wood would have finished top five in voting for first half MVP. Washington is above .500 through 92 games and he's proving to be a franchise player worth building around. His 81 runs scored leads all of baseball (second closest is at 62) and his 24 home runs is tied for seventh. Wood was deservingly selected to his second consecutive All-Star Game, which will captivate the success he had in the first half of the season.

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Jorge Polanco reinstated from the injured list

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 11: Jorge Polanco #11 of the New York Mets rounds the bases after hitting a home run in the seventh inning during the game between the Athletics and the New York Mets at Citi Field on Saturday, April 11, 2026 in New York, New York. (Photo by Michael Urakami/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

Jorge Polanco has been reinstated from the 60-day injured list, the Mets announced this afternoon. Polanco has been sidelined for nearly three months due to lingering Achilles bursitis. After being shut down from his rehab assignment last month due to persistent soreness in his ankle, Polanco resumed playing in rehab games for Triple-A Syracuse on June 27. After a slow start, Polanco hit two home runs and drove in three in his past three rehab games. Prior to the injury, the 33-year-old, who is in the first year of a two-year, $40 million contract with the Mets, slashed .179/.246/.286 in a small 14-game sample in April. The Achilles injury has limited Polanco’s ability to play the field and he will be used solely as a DH for the Mets.

“Feeling good, feeling grateful and excited to be back,” Polanco said to reporters this afternoon.

To make room for Polanco on the roster, the Mets optioned Ronny Mauricio back to Triple-A Syracuse. In a separate move, the Mets added righty Matt Seelinger—acquired yesterday in a trade with the Tigers for cash considerations—to the big league roster. “It’s a dream scenario for me,” the Long Island native said of the chance to pitch for the Mets. “I grew up 20 minutes from here. I used to come to games all the time as a kid.”

To make room on the 40-man roster for Polanco and Seelinger, the Mets have designated pitchers Alex Carrillo and Guillermo Zuñiga for assignment—the latter just one day after he made his Mets debut.

There have also been recent updates on a couple of other long-injured Mets. Luis Robert Jr.’s rehab assignment has been transferred to Double-A Binghamton as the Rumble Ponies begin a six-game series against the Hartford Yard Goats in Hartford. Robert had played in three games for Triple-A Syracuse and went 1-for-10 with a walk and two strikeouts. Meanwhile, outfielder Mike Tauchman, who suffered a torn meniscus at the end of spring training and has yet to play in a regular season game, began a rehab assignment today in the Florida Complex League. He went 0-for-2 with a walk in his first rehab game as the DH for the FCL Mets.

Jonathan Kuminga landing spots: Have Lakers climbed to top of list?

The Los Angeles Lakers have interest in signing unrestricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, but there's a hold up.

It seems there's mutual interest from Kuminga and his camp, however, the 23-year-old wants to weigh out all of his options in the event there's a better deal on the table, according to ESPN.

The Lakers are offering Kuminga a starting role, playing high minutes alongside Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. ESPN reported that there are many within the Lakers' brass that feel his skill set is a fit with Dončić and head coach JJ Reddick's offensive scheme.

However, Kuminga and his agent Aaron Turner are not yet sold on that idea in belief that there are other routes they can take.

Here are potential landing spots for Jonathan Kuminga:

Jonathan Kuminga potential landing spots

Here are potential teams that Kuminga could end up playing for by the start of the 2026-27 regular season:

Los Angeles Lakers

Kuminga has been in discussion with the Lakers since becoming an unrestricted free agent. His team option worth $24.3 million was declined by the Atlanta Hawks on June 29. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka met with Kuminga in a virtual setting the following day, according to ESPN.

The Lakers added all sorts of assets this summer in Walker Kessler, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes, Jaden Hardy and Collin Sexton. Kuminga would seemingly be a replacement for Rui Hachimura, who was not brought back and instead signed with the neighboring Clippers.

Atlanta Hawks

There's a chance that Kuminga does, in fact, return to the Hawks but on a friendlier deal than the $24.3 million the team would have owed him if they picked up his option. The deal would be something that makes sense for both sides.

Kuminga was traded to the Hawks on Feb. 5, along with Buddy Hield, in a deal that sent Kristaps Porzingis to the Golden State Warriors. He averaged 12.3 points on 47.6% field goal shooting and 34.6% from 3-point. He pulled in 5.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 0.9 steals in 22.1 minutes, appearing in 16 games for Atlanta.

However, "a reunion isn't being actively discussed", ESPN reported.

Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cleveland Cavaliers also have interest in Kuminga and his talent. There's familiarity with Kuminga in Cleveland, as their head coach Kenny Atkinson coached Kuminga in his first three NBA seasons while serving as an assistant under Steve Kerr with the Golden State Warriors.

It would make for a nice get-together, however the Cavaliers have their eyes set on landing LeBron James.

Sacramento Kings

The Sacramento Kings were heavily involved in the Kuminga sweepstakes a year ago. According to ESPN, the team checked back in with Kuminga to gauge his interest. However, it would take some maneuvering financially to make it happen. The likely scenario would be to execute a sign-and-trade. The Kings have been hesitant to discuss those plans, ESPN reports.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Sports: Jonathan Kuminga landing spots: Have Lakers climbed to top of list?

South Side Sox Reacts: Who’s your pick?

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Sox fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.


It’s been so long since the White Sox held the No. 1 overall pick in the draft, nearly every one of our readers were not fans when it last happened (1977, Harold Baines) … even a “veteran” fan like Brett, senior to all but one on the SSS staff, had just begun his fandom at that time.

Well, after months of anticipation, and the curious fall of UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky from no-brainer top pick to perhaps as low as No. 3 overall in the draft, Saturday marks the day of reckoning for the White Sox. The draft boasts as many as three apparent generational talents:

  • Cholowsky, a collegiate superstar and right-handed bat apparently close to plugging directly into the White Sox lineup
  • Vahn Lackey, a Georgia Tech catcher who the White Sox front office apparently now favors
  • Grady Emerson, a prep shortstop out of Fort Worth who is three years younger than the two collegians, bats from the left side, is purportedly as MLB-ready as the other two and is said to be the preference of the White Sox scouting corps

There is no clear pick here, which hopefully means there is no way for the White Sox to make a mistake with the choice. But we all know that these three players won’t end up with identical 20-year, 100-WAR careers and Hall of Fame elections. Chicago’s recent high-pick past is no salve for our worries, as the club picked Nick Madrigal No. 4 overall and Andrew Vaughn No. 3 in back-to back drafts.

So, who’s you’re guy on Saturday?

Lakers sign Kevon Looney to one-year, veteran’s minimum deal

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - APRIL 07: Kevon Looney #55 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts during the second half of a game against the Utah Jazz at Smoothie King Center on April 07, 2026 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 Tyler Kaufman/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Lakers have found their backup center.

After trading away Deandre Ayton to the Wizards, LA has filled his spot in the rotation by agreeing to a one-year, $3.9 million deal with Kevon Looney.

The contract is a veteran’s minimum and, for those tracking the Lakers’ proximity to the first apron, will only count for $2.4 million toward the cap.

Looney spent last season with the Pelicans, the first campaign of his career not with Golden State. He played just 21 games, averaging 14.7 minutes per contest. He had rather modest stats, scoring 2.8 points and grabbing 5.6 rebounds per game.

With the Warriors, Looney garnered a reputation as an ironman, playing in 82 games in back-to-back seasons in 2021-22 and 2022-23. In his last four years in San Francisco, he played at least 74 games.

However, in New Orleans, he dealt with injuries, starting with a left knee injury that ruled him out to open the season. After struggling without him early in the year, the Pelicans signed DeAndre Jordan, who effectively took Looney’s entire role on the roster.

As a result, Looney played just 10 games from the start of December until the end of the season. The team turned down his option for this season, making him an unrestricted free agent once again.

At just 30 years old, Looney still has plenty left in the tank, even if he’s been in the league since he was 19 years old. He will not provide the Lakers a lob threat as a backup big, but he will certainly give them a great screen setter and another solid rebounder, particularly on the offensive glass.

Even in a disappointing season in New Orleans, Looney had an offensive rebound percentage of 16.6%, well above the marks from Deandre Ayton (11.5%) and Jaxson Haye (10%) last season. It’s clear that, between Looney and Walker Kessler, the Lakers have placed an emphasis on being a better rebounding team next season.

At a veteran’s minimum deal, this will not impact any cap space or any moves the team can or may make to create cap space to go after a wing. Looney will be one of the final players signed in the sequence of events once the Lakers start finalizing moves.

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Brewers win first game of Tuesday’s doubleheader over Cardinals, 4-3

Jul 7, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Milwaukee Brewers starting pitcher Jacob Misiorowski (32) pitches against the St. Louis Cardinals during the fourth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images | Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

Box Score

The Brewers picked up another win in the first game of Tuesday’s doubleheader in St. Louis, as Jacob Misiorowski struck out 11 across seven innings and Christian Yelich and Joey Ortiz each came up with three-hit days in a 4-3 victory over the Cardinals.

After Matt Svanson worked around a leadoff ground-rule double by Yelich in the first, the Cardinals immediately came up swinging against Misiorowski. JJ Wetherholt took a hit by pitch on Miz’s second pitch of the day, and he then advanced on a groundout. Two batters later, Jordan Walker crushed a first-pitch cutter from Misiorowski for a two-run homer, putting St. Louis out to a 2-0 lead. Lars Nootbaar followed with a double on a misplay by Jackson Chourio in left, but Miz stranded him there.

Both teams traded 1-2-3 innings in the second before the Brewers broke through against left-hander Bruce Zimmermann in the third. Zimmermann, who made a spot start for Milwaukee against the Padres last September, walked Cooper Pratt before allowing a run-scoring double to Ortiz. Yelich followed with a single to bring Ortiz in, and it was quickly knotted at 2-2, though Chourio followed with a double play and Brice Turang went down swinging.

The 2-2 tie wouldn’t last long, though, as Iván Herrera hit a one-out solo homer in the bottom of the fourth, Miz’s second homer allowed in the game and fourth in his last two starts.

After those few shaky moments from Miz in the first three innings, he settled in nicely. He allowed no more baserunners through the seventh inning, setting down the last 14 in a row after the Herrera homer. He finished the day with seven innings pitched, allowing three runs on three hits and no walks while striking out 11.

In a 3-2 hole, Milwaukee threatened with two more baserunners on a Jake Bauers double and a Garrett Mitchell single in the fourth, but they couldn’t cash either in. They then went down in order in the fifth.

After a pair of outs to begin the sixth, Bauers slugged his second double of the afternoon and then came around to score on Mitchell’s second single. The play at home was close, but the call was confirmed upon review after a St. Louis challenge.

A brand-new ballgame entering the seventh, the Brewers forced a pitching change, with Ryne Stanek taking over for Zimmermann. He allowed a walk and a bunt single before being removed due to a scary injury, as he slid into first in an effort to get Ortiz out on the bunt. Hopefully he’s alright.

JoJo Romero entered in relief of Stanek and promptly gave up a double to Yelich, which gave Milwaukee a 4-3 lead and put runners at second and third with no outs. Looking for some insurance, the Brewers couldn’t cash in, with Chourio grounding out, Turang striking out, William Contreras reaching on an intentional walk, and pinch-hitter Andrew Vaughn grounding out to end the inning.

Justin Bruihl set Milwaukee down in order in the eighth, and Aaron Ashby took the ball from Misiorowski for the bottom of the inning. After recording the first two outs without a problem, he gave up a pair of singles to Wetherholt and Herrera, putting runners at the corners with Alec Burleson at the plate. Burleson mercifully grounded out, keeping Milwaukee’s lead at 4-3 entering the final inning.

The Brewers, still looking for an insurance run, threatened against Bruihl in the ninth, with Ortiz singling and moving up on a passed ball and groundout. Turang also walked and stole second (without a throw), but Contreras grounded out to end the threat.

After Trevor Megill got his 14th save yesterday, it was Abner Uribe out of the bullpen for this one. He retired Walker on a pop-up but then fell behind Nootbaar, ultimately walking the veteran outfielder. Nootbaar was promptly replaced with the fleet-footed Masyn Winn, but Uribe bounced back with a strikeout of Bryan Torres and a groundout by Nathan Church, picking up his sixth save of the year.

While the Brewers finished with 10 hits, they came from just four players, as Yelich, Ortiz, Bauers, and Mitchell each had multi-hit days — Yelich had two doubles and a single, Ortiz had a double and two singles, Bauers had a pair of doubles, and Mitchell had two singles. Yelich added two RBIs, while Mitchell and Ortiz had one each. As a team, the Brewers went 4-for-16 with runners in scoring position, which was just enough to get the win.

The Brewers are back at it this evening for the second half of their doubleheader, with both team’s 27th man getting the start — Robert Gasser for Milwaukee and Hunter Dobbins for St. Louis. First pitch for that one is set for 6:45 p.m. See you then.

Claude Giroux chooses to return to the Ottawa Senators for next season

OTTAWA, Ontario (AP) — Claude Giroux is returning to the Ottawa Senators after agreeing to terms Tuesday on a contract for next season with a $2 million salary that can be worth up to $5 million in bonuses.

“Claude took his time to evaluate his options, and his decision to re-sign with us shows his belief and commitment to our group,” Ottawa general manager Steve Staios said. “He is the consummate professional and brings veteran experience to our core on an off the ice.”

Giroux, 38, was linked in free agency to the Philadelphia Flyers this summer, but a reunion did not materialize. He spent his first 15-plus NHL seasons with them from 2008-22 before getting traded at the deadline to Florida.

The Hearst, Ontario, native played the past four seasons with the Senators. Going back to Ottawa makes Giroux a candidate to succeed Brady Tkachuk as captain, following his trade last month to the Panthers to play with his brother, Matthew.

“I chose to come back because I want to be here," Giroux said. "Being around those guys for four years, we got really close. This team feels like a family. I just care for those players.”

Giroux's 1,165 regular-season points rank 60th in league history and are the eighth-most among active players.

___

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Jordan Walker Homers Off Misiorowski But Brewers Beat Cardinals Tuesday

Jul 7, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Cardinals right fielder Jordan Walker (18) runs the bases after hitting a two run home run against the Milwaukee Brewers during the first inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images | Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

On paper, the St. Louis Cardinals were overmatched in game 1 of a day/night doubleheader at Busch Stadium Tuesday. However, baseball games are played on fields and Jordan Walker proved that the unbeatable are really not invincible as he homered against Jacob Misiorowski giving the Cardinals an early lead over the Brewers in game 1 Tuesday afternoon. The problem would be the Brewers would still overtake the Cardinals in the late innings.

The Cardinals didn’t delay to jump on likely All-Star game starter Jacob Misiorowski. After he hit JJ Wetherholt with a pitch in the bottom of the 1st inning, two batters later Jordan Walker strolled to the plate and immediately destroyed a 95 mph cutter sending it 386 feet into the left field stands giving the Cardinals an unexpected 2-0 lead.

The St. Louis Cardinals start by committee worked fine – for 2 innings – as Matt Svanson covered the top of the 1st inning and new call-up from Memphis Bruce Zimmermann handled the middle innings. His second inning in relief would not go well as he walked Cooper Pratt to start the inning who then scored on a double by Ortiz. He scored next when Christian Yelich singled to center evening the game at 2-2. To his credit, that was Zimmermann’s only inning where he ran into trouble…until the 6th inning. More on that later.

The relentless Cardinals offense lived up to its reputation in the bottom of the 3rd inning as they again proved Jacob Misiorowski is at least partially human as Iván Herrera connected with a 102 mph four-seam fastball from the wonder kid and launched it 378 feet giving the Cardinals their lead back at 3-2.

Bruce Zimmermann faced a Milwaukee Brewers rally in the top of the 6th inning. Jake Bauers cracked a 2-out double followed by a single by Mitchell which scored Bauers at home on a close play that was held up by review tying the game at 3-3.

Ryne Stanek was given the reins for the top of the 7th inning with the task of keeping the Milwaukee Brewers right where they were. He did the thing that Bruce Zimmermann did in the top of the 3rd inning that got him into trouble as he walked Cooper Pratt to start the inning. Joey Ortiz then laid down a sacrifice bunt that led to 3 players lying on the field. Stanek hurt his right ankle and Pratt and Bryan Torres collided at first base as Pratt was called safe on the play. Fortunately, Pratt and Torres ended up being uninjured and able to continue. Stanek, on the other hand, had to leave the game complicating an already difficult Cardinals bullpen situation. JoJo Romero was tasked with tossing buckets of water on the 7th inning dumpster fire as he faced Christian Yelich who was 1-7 against JoJo Romero in the past. Unfortunately, he became 2-8 with his RBI double scoring Pratt giving the Brewers their first lead Tuesday at 4-3 with Milwaukee still having runners at 2nd and 3rd with nobody out. After JoJo struck out Turang, he intentionally walked William Contreras. The Brewers pinch-hit for Jake Bauers with Andrew Vaughan. Romero got him out on a nice play by JJ Wetherholt who was playing short in place of Masyn Winn for game 1 as he wanted to throw to third for the force out, but it was uncovered by Fermin so he made a throw across the diamond to get Vaughan out at first to end the top of the 7th.

After the Cardinals failed to do anything to Jacob Misiorowski’s pitches in the bottom of the 7th inning, it was Justin Bruihl’s turn in the top of the 8th inning as the St. Louis bullpen merry-go-round continued to spin. It was a bit of a surprise to see Justin in the game after he rolled his ankle during Monday night’s game. He was able to set down the Brewers 1-2-3 without issue to keep the Cardinals within striking distance.

Despite the two Cardinals home runs, Jacob Misiorowski proved why he is one of the elite National League arms. He gave the Brewers 7 full innings only allowing 3 hits while striking out 11 and walking nobody. It was a relief to see the Brewers bring in Aaron Ashby in the bottom of the 8th inning. JJ Wetherholt was able to beat out an infield single with two outs and then advanced to third on a single by Iván Herrera giving St. Louis runners at first and third. That brought up Alec Burleson with a chance to tie the game or more. Unfortunately, he grounded out to end the bottom of the 8th with the Cardinals still trailing 4-3.

Justin Bruihl would remain in the game to keep the Cardinals deficit at just 1. He would give up a leadoff single to Ortiz who advanced to second on a passed ball charged to Pedro Pagés. Bruihl was able to get Yelich to fly out to left and Chourio to ground out to Wetherholt at short which advanced Ortiz to third. After Turang walked, Bruihl was able to get out of the jam as Contreras grounded out to end the top of the 9th.

The Cardinals would face Brewers reliever Abner Uribe in the bottom of the 9th. Jordan Walker was first up in the Cardinals 9th. All Jordan could manage was a popup to third for the first out. Lars Nootbaar was next up and ran the count full before drawing a walk. Masyn Winn pinch-ran for Nootbaar as the potential tying run while the potential winning run came to the plate in the form of Bryan Torres. He struck out looking which left Nathan Church as the Cardinals last hope. He grounded out to end the game and give the Brewers the first game of the doubleheader.

The St. Louis Cardinals will play game 2 of their day/night doubleheader Tuesday night against the Milwaukee Brewers with Hunter Dobbins getting the start for the birds. The Brew Crew will assign night pitching duties to Robert Gasser who’s 1-3 with a 4.54 ERA. First pitch scheduled for 6:45pm central time with the game broadcast available again on Cardinals.tv.

Lakers agree to $3.9M deal with Kevon Looney in NBA free agency

Jaxson Hayes dribbling during the New Orleans Pelicans vs Atlanta Hawks game.
The los Angeles Lakers have agreed to a one-year, $3.9 million contract with three time champion Kevon Looney in NBA free agency.

LAS VEGAS — The Lakers have found their backup big man to complement Walker Kessler

The team has agreed to terms with Kevon Looney on a one-year deal for a veteran minimum’s salary of $3.9 million, his agent Life Sports Agency CEO Todd Ramasar confirmed to the California Post on Tuesday.

ESPN first reported the deal.

The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed to a one-year, $3.9 million contract with three time champion Kevon Looney in NBA free agency. Getty Images

Looney will join the Lakers with the opportunity to be the primary backup center behind Kessler, who the Lakers will sign to a four-year, $130 million deal after acquiring Kessler from the Jazz in a sign and trade.

Sandro Mamukelashvili, who agreed to join the Lakers on a four-year, $52 million contract, is also expected to factor into the Lakers’ big man rotation.

An 11-year veteran, Looney got his start in the league when the Warriors drafted him out of UCLA with the 30th overall pick in 2015.

After playing sparingly as a rookie, Looney saw his minutes increase beginning his second year when he became a valuable member of Steve Kerr’s rotation as a backup big man who started occasionally.

He became a full-time starter for the Warriors in his seventh season, averaging a then career-high 21.1 minutes in 82 games (80 starts). Looney recorded 6 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2 assists per game during the Warriors’ 2021-22 championship season.

Looney remained a full-time starter during the 2022-23 season, averaging career-highs of 7 points, 9.3 rebounds (3.3 offensive boards) 2.5 assists and 23.9 minutes in 82 games (70 starts), before moving into a backup role for his final two seasons with the Warriors.

After 10 seasons with the Warriors, Looney played for a team based outside of The Golden State for the first time since high school when he joined the Pelicans on a two-year, $16 million deal that had a team option on the second season.

Looney sparingly played for the Pelicans, who had young big men Derik Queen and Yves Missi on the roster in addition to veteran center DeAndre Jordan, appearing in just 21 regular season games (14.7 minutes).

Even at a more advanced stage of his career entering his 12th NBA season, Looney remains a positive contributor with defensive rebounding, offensive rebounding, rim protection and screening.

And after a decade of being a complementary piece who made the game easier for perimeter stars such as Steph Curry, Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson, Looney will have the opportunity to do similar playing alongside Lakers stars Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Mets reinstate Jorge Polanco from 60-day injured list in flurry of roster moves

For the first time since April 14, Jorge Polanco is back with the Mets.

The team made a number of roster moves on Tuesday prior to its series opening game against the Kansas City Royals, including returning Polanco from his rehab assignment and reinstating him from the 60-day injured list.

Polanco has been sidelined for most of the season due to left Achilles bursitis and a wrist contusion, but has been working his way back to the majors since the end of May. He played in 11 minor league games during his rehab assignment over the past month-plus with Double-A Binghamton (three games) and Triple-A Syracuse (eight games), hitting .148 with three home runs over 27 at-bats across both levels.

The team has said throughout Polanco's rehab that he will likely return in a DH role, something he played in 12 of the 14 games he was active for at the beginning of the season. He owned a .179 batting average with one home run and two RBI in 56 at-bats prior to his injury.

In corresponding moves, New York optioned infielder Ronny Mauricio to Triple-A, selected RHP Matt Seelinger to the major league roster, and designated both RHP Guillermo Zuniga and RHP Alex Carrillo for assignment.

Mauricio got the start at shortstop and went 1-for-4 in Monday's win over the Braves, but is just 9-for-50 (.180) in 17 games this season. 

Seelinger, 31, was acquired from the Detroit Tigers on Monday in exchange for cash considerations. The right-hander is a career minor leaguer with a 3.89 ERA at Triple-A in 2026.

Rockies vs Dodgers Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game

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The Los Angeles Dodgers won a thriller over the Colorado Rockies last night and now look to secure the series on Tuesday.

My Rockies vs. Dodgers predictions and MLB picks back the home side to keep rolling, with Los Angeles covering the run line behind a favorable matchup against struggling right-hander Michael Lorenzen.

Who will win Rockies vs Dodgers today: Dodgers -1.5 (-137)

Michael Lorenzen is having an abysmal season, and this is a terrible matchup for him — but a great one for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

That's because Lorenzen is getting tagged hard by left-handed hitters. On the season, lefties are slashing .365/.423/.640 against him while posting a 1.94 HR/9 rate.

Lorenzen owns a 5.07 xFIP versus left-handed hitters over the past month, but that number could be even worse. He's surrendered a HR/FB rate of only 4.8% despite allowing a 37.5% fly-ball rate.

The Dodgers' left-handed bats should do plenty of damage as Los Angeles covers the run line.

I'm betting this to -150 as my best bet.

Covers COVERS INTEL: Lorenzen's hard-hit rate of 51.8% vs. left-handed hitters over the past month is the second-highest mark among starting pitchers who have faced at least 30 left-handed batters.

Rockies vs Dodgers Over/Under pick: Over 9.5 (-103)

Lorenzen will get us close to the total, but two overworked bullpens should carry this game Over.

Last night's 11-inning contest further taxed a Colorado Rockies bullpen that's thrown the fifth-most innings (32 2/3) of any club over the past week.

During that stretch, the Rockies own the lowest strikeout rate (14.4%) in baseball. An inability to miss bats against the Dodgers is never a recipe for success.

Colorado's .566 slugging percentage leads the majors over the past month, and the Rockies should tack on a few runs after Justin Wrobleski exits against a Dodgers bullpen that has logged the same number of innings over the past week as Colorado.

I'm playing this to -115.

Jason Ence's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 10-14, -4.90 units
  • Over/Under bets: 14-10, +3.28 units

Rockies vs Dodgers weather

Expect ideal hitting conditions at Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night. Clear skies, temperatures in the low-to-mid 70s at first pitch, and little to no wind mean weather should have virtually no impact on the game.

Rockies vs Dodgers odds

  • Moneyline: Rockies +261 | Dodgers -266
  • Run line: Rockies +1.5 (+127) | Dodgers -1.5 (-138)
  • Over/Under: Over 9.5 (+100) | Under 9.5 (-104)

Rockies vs Dodgers trend

The Colorado Rockies have hit the game total Over in eight of their last 12 games (+4.70 units, 35% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Rockies vs. Dodgers.

How to watch Rockies vs Dodgers and game info

LocationDodger Stadium, Los Angeles, CA
DateTuesday, July 7, 2026
First pitch10:10 p.m. ET
TVRockies.TV, SNLA
Rockies starting pitcherMichael Lorenzen
(3-9, 6.91 ERA)
Dodgers starting pitcherJustin Wrobleski
(10-2, 2.80 ERA)

Rockies vs Dodgers latest injuries

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Chicago Cubs vs. Baltimore Orioles preview, Tuesday 7/7, 5:35 CT

Tuesday notes…

  • STREAKING THE WRONG WAY: Surprise! The Cubs are mired in another 10-game losing streak. They have lost the first game of each of their last 10 series. The Cubs started the season by winning the opener of their first 11 series. Then they lost six in a row and won two, May 4 at New York vs. the Mets and May 8 at home vs. the Padres, before beginning their current double-digit streak on June 12 at Pittsburgh. They Cubs are 13-16 in all first games. They are 15-14 in second games, 18-10 in third games and 4-0 in fourth games. They are 13-14-2 in winning, losing and splitting series. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
  • AGAINST SUB-.500 TEAMS: The Cubs are 26-19 against teams that had a losing record on the day of games they played them. They are 24-21 vs. teams that were at .500 or had winning records. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
  • POWER OUTAGE: Last Wednesday, the Cubs hit eight home runs at home against the Padres, tying their team record, in a span of 45 plate appearances. They have hit none in their last 109. Three straight games without a homer is their second-longest streak of the season, after four in a row, March 31-April 5. They have had back-to-back homerless games five other times. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
  • TODAY IN CUBS HISTORY: The Cubs trail the Nationals 8-0 at Washington entering the sixth inning. They score 10 runs over the next four innings, including home runs by Blake DeWitt and Carlos Pena, and win 10-9. It happened 15 years ago today, Thursday, July 7, 2011.

Cubs lineup:

Orioles lineup:

Matthew Boyd, LHP vs. Shane Baz, RHP

In two starts since returning from the injured list, Matthew Boyd has allowed 12 hits and three runs in 9.2 innings, with four walks and six strikeouts.

If you squint you can see the form of last year’s Boyd struggling to get out. Hopefully he finds it in Baltimore.

Boyd hasn’t faced the Orioles since 2023 so many of the current O’s weren’t on the team then. Current Orioles are a small sample size 7-for-33 (.212) against Boyd with no home runs and 13 strikeouts.

Shane Baz was supposed to be the Orioles’ big starting pitcher acquisition this year and he’s been decidedly average, posting 0.8 bWAR with a 4.19 ERA.

He was a first-round pick (12th overall) in 2017 out of high school in Texas by the Pirates, who traded him to the Rays in the Chris Archer deal in 2018 (now there’s a blast from the past!).

Baz started against the Cubs for the Rays Sept. 12, 2025 at Wrigley Field and they hit him hard — six hits and five runs in 2.1 innings. Alex Bregman is 5-for-9 lifetime against Baz with a home run.

As you can see below, Baz throws hard, but his K rate is down from last year.

Here is the weather forecast for the area around Camden Yards.

Today’s game is on Marquee Sports Network.

Here is the complete MLB.com live streaming page for today.

MLB.com Gameday

Baseball-reference.com game preview

Please visit our SB Nation Orioles site Camden Chat. If you do go there to interact with Orioles fans, please be respectful, abide by their individual site rules and serve as a good representation of Cub fans in general and BCB in particular.

The 2026 game discussion procedure has been changed, so please take note.

You’ll find the game preview, like this one, posted separately on the front page two hours before game time (90 minutes for some early day games following night games).

At the same time, a StoryStream containing the preview will also post on the front page, titled “Cubs vs. (Team) (Day of week/date) game threads.” It will contain every post related to that particular game.

The Live! (formerly “First Pitch”) thread will still post at five minutes to game time. It will also post to the front page. That will be the only live game discussion thread. After the game, the recap and Heroes and Goats will also live on the front page as separate posts.

You will also be able to find the preview, Live! thread, recap and Heroes and Goats in this section link. The StoryStream for each game can also be found in that section.

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What if there isn’t another OF bat to trade for?

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JUNE 30: Derek Hill #49 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on during the game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

One of the bigger questions looming on the trade deadline horizon for the Phillies whether or not they can get another bat. They have been riding out a platoon of Gabriel Rincones, Jr. and Derek Hill, with Hill filling in at time for Justin Crawford and Edmundo Sosa taking some reps in left field against left handed pitching, options that are probably more appealing in theory than they are in practicality. The more urgent need, if there was one, was finding a more permanent solution to the right field platoon. Rincones has had a decent few games lately, but has generally looked as though more seasoning in the minor leagues was in order rather getting regular time in the majors. Hill is fine as a fourth/fifth outfielder or platoon option, but for a team that is looking to win a World Series, an upgrade is probably best for all.

As we know though, it takes two to tango on the trade front and finding acceptable solutions is going to be tricky. Getting that player on the Phillies will require them to make a deal for someone that is an upgrade over what they currently have, something they may not have the trade capital to do. If not, then the platoon will remain.

In that case:

Who knows what will happen, but we do know the fallback is the current iteration of the roster as is.

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Phillies fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Boston Celtics Daily Links 7/7/26

MILWAUKEE, WI - APRIL 3: The sneakers worn by Neemias Queta #88 of the Boston Celtics during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on April 3, 2026 at Fiserv Forum Center 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images). | NBAE via Getty Images

Herald Celtics announce two free agent signings, filling final roster spots

Celtics owner Bill Chisholm denies involvement in Jaylen Brown trade: ‘Absolutely not’

Brad Stevens explains why Celtics traded Jaylen Brown for Paul George

GlobeCeltics sign Ron Harper Jr. to multi-year contract

Brad Stevens ‘lost a lot of sleep’ over the Jaylen Brown trade

Report: Paul George makes surprise move, saving Celtics nearly $4 million

5 takeaways from the Celtics’ press conference about the Jaylen Brown trade

The questions Brad Stevens left unanswered about the Jaylen Brown trade, and other thoughts

Dan Shaughnessy asked Brad Stevens if the Jaylen Brown trade makes the Celtics better. Here’s what he said.

The Jaylen Brown trade makes it seem like the Celtics are no longer completely focused on winning

Bill Chisholm says the Jaylen Brown trade was ‘not about the money,’ but Celtics fans won’t buy that

Brad Stevens says he has ‘lost sleep’ over Jaylen Brown trade, but the deal gives the Celtics flexibility

‘I’m not saying it was the right call’: What Brad Stevens, Bill Chisholm said about Jaylen Brown trade

CelticsBlogJaylen Brown says goodbye to Boston after trade: “Boston is home”

A breakdown of the Celtics roster going into next season

By trading Jaylen Brown, the Celtics are making big bets

Brad Stevens did the best he could in 45-minute Q&A. Was it enough?

CLNS Media Celtics Sound Like a Team That Simply Wanted Off Jaylen Brown’s Contract

INSTANT REACTION: Brad Stevens Explains Why He Traded Jaylen Brown

Celtics .com Stevens, Chisholm Share Vision for Celtics’ Next Chapter

Celtics Sign Mitchell Robinson

Celtics Sign Mike Conley Jr.

Thank You, Jaylen

NBC Sports BostonCeltics owner Bill Chisholm puts all his trust in Brad Stevens

Key takeaways from Celtics’ Jaylen Brown trade press conference

Stevens stresses ‘optionality’ after Brown trade; Forsberg, Curran react

NESN Celtics Trade Rumors: Trey Murphy III Update Could Open Door for Deal with Pelicans

Celtics Officially Sign Son Of 5-Time NBA Champion

Brad Stevens Addresses Jaylen Brown Trade at Press Conference

Why Paul George Turned Down $3.9 Million Trade Bonus To Help Celtics

Mass LiveCeltics officially sign 2 free agents with roster mostly finished

Former Celtics center signs 2-year contract with Nets

Celtics’ explanation for the Jaylen Brown trade still doesn’t add up

Brad Stevens makes honest confession on trading Jaylen Brown to Sixers

Brad Stevens reveals why Celtics made stunning Jaylen Brown trade now

Brad Stevens breaks down Jayson Tatum factor after Jaylen Brown trade

Brad Stevens looking forward to working with Paul George after Jaylen Brown trade

Brad Stevens apologizes to Jaylen Brown after startling Sixers trade

Paul George makes surprising decision to help Celtics after trade

Brad Stevens has lost sleep over trading Jaylen Brown from Celtics

Celtics WireWhat will change for the Celtics, 76ers, and East post-Jaylen Brown trade?

Mitchell Robinson signing now official, per Celtics

Are Boston Celtics front office, ownership on same page with Jaylen Brown trade?

Mike Conley signing made official by Boston Celtics

Should we believe the Celtics did not trade Jaylen Brown over money?

Celtics officially announce Neemias Queta extension

Brad Stevens hints at Celtics future offseason plans after Jaylen Brown trade

Was Jayson Tatum out of the loop on the Celtics trade of Jaylen Brown?

Celtics make Ron Harper Jr. signing official

The day the Celtics became the Braves, now known as the Los Angeles Clippers

Every basket of Isaiah Thomas scoring 53 in Celtics vs. Wizards

Celtics Derrick White on how G League helped career

Celtics history: Avery trade; Olynyk signs; Barnett born; Wallace passes

Derrick White on how Spurs icon Gregg Popovich changed his career

Brad Stevens stands by adding and keeping Paul George in Jaylen Brown trade

How the Jaylen Brown trade impacts the Celtics, 76ers, and the East

Brad Stevens outlines depth and optionality as key factors in Jaylen Brown trade

Are the Celtics right about the potential of Hugo Gonzalez?

The AthleticBrad Stevens, Jaylen Brown and the Celtics’ path to being ordinary

Brad Stevens, Celtics ‘lost a lot of sleep about’ trading Jaylen Brown to 76ers

Boston Sports JournalSimone: Brad Stevens’ Jaylen Brown explanation makes sense — but it’s still not right

Brad Stevens and Bill Chisholm discuss the Jaylen Brown-Paul George trade

Hardwood Houdini Brad Stevens dropped major hint about Celtics’ plan to secure young depth long-term

Jaylen Brown trade might have accidentally gifted LeBron James to the 76ers

Why Celtics traded Jaylen Brown to Sixers: 5 takeaways from Brad Stevens’ presser

76ers just poured salt in Boston’s wounds with one Jaylen Brown video

Paul George’s pivotal decision could push Celtics to upgrade from Sam Hauser

It took less than a week for Paul George to help the Celtics out

Brad Stevens faced the music, but his explanation won’t stop the Celtics backlash

Brad Stevens shuts down speculation around Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown trade drama

Bill Chisholm addresses elephant in the room and calms panic over Jaylen Brown trade

Brad Stevens finally reveals Celtics’ motivation in trading Jaylen Brown

Chowder and Champions Celtics are suddenly asking Derrick White to be something he’s never been

CLNS Media/YouTube New Details Revealed on Jaylen Brown Trade | Still Poddable

Locked on Celtics Brad Stevens EXPLAINS Jaylen Brown Trade: Why OPTIONALITY Matters to Celtics

The Sports HubNo other ‘shoe to drop’ after Celtics’ trade for Paul George

Celtics apparently claim Jaylen Brown trade wasn’t money-driven

Brad Stevens can’t say for sure whether Celtics got better post-Jaylen Brown trade

Brad Stevens did not share Brown trade details with Jayson Tatum

Bleacher Report Everything Celtics’ Brad Stevens Said About Jaylen Brown, Paul George Trade with 76ers

Paul George Reportedly Waives Trade Bonus, Updated Celtics Salary Cap After Jaylen Brown Split

Jaylen Brown’s 76ers Jersey Number Revealed in New Video After Trade from Celtics

Yahoo SportsCeltics president Brad Stevens on if Jaylen Brown trade will make team better next year: ‘We’ll find out’

Orlando Magic DailyThe Boston Celtics’ biggest question is now haunting the Orlando Magic

Heavy Brad Stevens Explains Why Celtics Traded Jaylen Brown to Rival Sixers

Ex-76ers Star Paul George Made Notable Decision After Celtics Trade

Celtics’ Brad Stevens Open to ‘Big Swing’ Trade After Jaylen Brown Deal

Paul George Helps Celtics With Salary-Sacrificing Move

Celtics Make Eye-Opening Admission About Jaylen Brown Trade

Central Nebraska Today NBA’s Baylor Scheierman To Visit Epic Discovery Center

The Sporting News Latest Trey Murphy III trade update gives Celtics a chance to add Jayson Tatum’s ideal co-star

Front Office Sports Brad Stevens Preaches ‘Optionality’ in Defense of Jaylen Brown Trade

SI .comBrad Stevens Emphasizes ‘Optionality’ as the Primary Reason For Jaylen Brown Trade

NBA GM Baffled That Jazz’s Walker Kessler Return Exceeded Jaylen Brown’s

Chris Mannix: The Celtics Need Everything to Break Right for the Jaylen Brown Trade to Work

Celtics Stumble in NBA Championship Market on Kalshi Following Jaylen Brown Trade

The Truth Behind the Celtics Trading Jaylen Brown

3 Positives of Knicks Letting Mitchell Robinson Walk

Celtics Roster, Financial Breakdown After Jaylen Brown Trade, Mitchell Robinson Deal

NESN/YouTubeSean Grande’s Thoughts On Brad Stevens’ Reasons For Trading Jaylen Brown

Winning Not Money The Reason Celtics Moved On From Jaylen Brown

Audacy Jayson Tatum had no input on Jaylen Brown trade

Why the Celtics traded Jaylen Brown comes down to ‘optionality’

HR 3 | Reacting to Brad Stevens & Bill Chisholm after they finally clear the air on Jaylen Brown & Paul George

Philly Voice Sixers and Celtics officially execute trade involving Jaylen Brown and Paul George

Celtics RoundtableNow-Former Boston Celtics Star Jaylen Brown Issues Statement to 76ers Fans

BoardroomThe Jaylen Brown Trade Changed Everything for the Sixers

Clutch PointsCeltics’ Brad Stevens explains reasoning behind trading Jaylen Brown for Paul George

Celtics’ Brad Stevens gets real on first trade conversations with Jaylen Brown

Celtics’ Brad Stevens leans on salary cap excuse after Jaylen Brown trade

Colin Cowherd drops eye-opening Jaylen Brown-Celtics ‘last shot’ trade conspiracy

How involved were analytics in Celtics’ Jaylen Brown trade, per Brad Stevens?

Larry Brown SportsBrad Stevens reveals the biggest reason for the Jaylen Brown trade

CBS SportsBrad Stevens’ explanation of Jaylen Brown trade is unlikely to soothe Celtics fans

Hoops RumorsContract Details: Wade, Simons, Sharpe, Minott, George, More

Celtics Re-Sign Ron Harper Jr. On Four-Year Contract

BasketNews Brad Stevens drops major Jayson Tatum revelation on Jaylen Brown Celtics trade

Barstool Sports After Making A Franchise Altering Decision, Brad Stevens Finally Faced The Music Following The Jaylen Brown Trade

ESPNCeltics’ Stevens cites ‘challenging’ path to explain Brown trade

2026 NBA offseason: Judging overreactions to trades, moves

Cohen: Celtics trading Jaylen Brown for one player was ‘beyond stupid’

NBA free agency: Why blockbuster trades have taken over the East

Sportsnet AP source: Al Horford signs two-year, $14M deal to remain with Warriors

NBA .comBrad Stevens says Jaylen Brown trade was about Celtics’ salary cap and future flexibility

FansidedNBA Power Rankings: Celtics, 76ers and the biggest risers and fallers after the first week of free agency

TalkBasket Brad Stevens explains Celtics’ new direction

Boston Globe/YouTube Will the Celtics be better without Jaylen Brown? Brad Stevens responds to Shaughnessy

NY Post Brad Stevens admits salary cap reason behind Celtics’ shocking Jaylen Brown trade

Nets RoundtableNets Were Closer to Jaylen Brown Deal Than You May Have Thought

The Celtics Chronicle What Does Mitchell Robinson Bring To The Celtics?

Fan RecapCeltics Keep Betting On Former Knicks Bigs And Robinson Fits It

Liberty BallersNBA media has jumped the shark on Jaylen Brown

WEEI/YouTubeDid Jayson Tatum WANT Jaylen Brown to be traded? 🤔 | Jones & Keefe

Basketball Network Paul Pierce isn’t buying the explanation behind Jaylen Brown’s shocking Celtics exit: “Supposedly left a sour taste in the organization?”

“They wanna throw those stones” – Cedric Maxwell warns Jayson Tatum about backlash after Jaylen Brown trade

“We looked at him” – Magic Johnson says Jayson Tatum’s agent played a key role in Lakers passing on him

Sports Illustrated/YouTubeThe Truth Behind the Celtics Trading Jaylen Brown | Chris Mannix and Jay King

Hoops WireCeltics will need ball to bounce just right after trading Jaylen Brown

Pirates to be without star shortstop Konnor Griffin for two months

WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 05: Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin (6) makes diving backhand catch on a hit behind third base during the Pittsburgh Pirates versus Washington Nationals Major League Baseball (MLB) game on June 5, 2026 at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.. (Photo by Randy Litzinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

What began as a promising rookie season for baseball’s No. 1 prospect has taken another turn for the worse.

Pirates star shortstop Konnor Griffin is going to be out for likely the next two months with a torn tendon in his left ring finger, according to multiple reports. 

Pirates Director of Sports Medicine Tom Tomczyk told the media that Griffin’s finger will be in a splint for six weeks. 

Griffin’s estimated return is in 8-10 weeks, lining him up to miss considerable time in the Pirates’ race to the playoffs. 

Griffin suffered the injury against the Washington Nationals on Sunday in our nation’s capital. Griffin made two diving catches into shallow left field for highlight-reel plays, but appeared to injure his left hand on one of the plays.

He was seen in the dugout getting his fingers checked out by the training staff. Griffin also appeared to be stepped on by Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams while stealing second base in the fourth inning and could be a contributing reason for the injury, which feels like a snowball effect of multiple causes.

It’s a crushing blow for the 20-year-old face-of-the-franchise, who just returned from an elbow injury that kept him out a month.

Griffin hit .306 in eight starts back off the IL with four multi-hit games and the game-winning hit on Sunday.

In 59 games during his rookie year, Griffin is slashing .276/.332/.404 with 10 doubles, two triples, five home runs, and 25 RBIs. Griffin homered in his first at-bat against the Reds on June 26.

Already missing center fielder Oneil Cruz and first baseman Spencer Horwitz until after the All-Star break, the Pirates will need to survive another injury to an impactful player for their offense and defense. 

Pittsburgh hosts the Braves and Brewers to close the unofficial first half of the season. The Pirates are 46-45 and three games back of the Marlins for the final wild card spot. Buckle up, everyone.