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Rangers at Tigers prediction: Odds, expert picks, starting pitchers, betting trends, and stats for May 9

The Rangers (18-20) are in Detroit Friday to open a series against the Tigers (23-13).

Patrick Corbin is slated to take the mound for Texas against Tarik Skubal for Detroit.

The Rangers were blanked Thursday in Boston, 5-0. Tucker Barnhart went 3-3 for Texas but the rest of the lineup was just 2-27 against Brayan Bello and three Red Sox relievers.

Detroit enters the weekend series having won five in a row. Thursday, they swept a pair from the Rockies outscoring Colorado 21-3. Casey Mize won his sixth game of the year in the opener allowing just one run over six innings in a 10-2 win. Keider Montero pitched eight innings of five-hit, one run ball in the nightcap, an 11-1 win for the Tigers.

Lets dive into the matchup and find a sweat or two.

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch tipoff, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.

Game details & how to watch Rangers at Tigers

  • Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
  • Time: 6:40PM EST
  • Site: Comerica Park
  • City: Detroit, MI
  • Network/Streaming: RSN, FDSNDT

Never miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.

Odds for the Rangers at the Tigers

The latest odds as of Thursday:

  • Moneyline: Rangers (+219), Tigers (-270)
  • Spread:  Tigers -1.5
  • Total: 7.0 runs

Probable starting pitchers for Rangers at Tigers

  • Pitching matchup for May 9, 2025: Patrick Corbin vs. Tarik Skubal
    • Rangers: Patrick Corbin (2-1, 3.28 ERA)
      Last outing: 5/3 vs. Seattle - 5.2IP, 1ER, 5H, 2BB, 2Ks
    • Tigers: Tarik Skubal (3-2, 2.21 ERA)
      Last outing: 5/2 at Angels - 6IP, 1ER, 4H, 0BB, 8Ks

Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Rangers at Tigers

  • Detroit is now 27-13 on the Run Line
  • Game Totals in Texas games are now 26-12 to the UNDER
  • Spencer Torkelson has 30 hits this season and 21 of them are either doubles (11) or home runs (10)
  • Only the Pirates (118) and the Rockies (115) have scored fewer runs than the Rangers (123) this season

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our MLB Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Expert picks & predictions for Friday’s game between the Rangers and the Tigers

Rotoworld Best Bet

Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.

Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

Here are the best bets our model is projecting for Friday's game between the Rangers and the Tigers:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play on the Detroit Tigers on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Texas Rangers at +1.5.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the under on the Game Total of 7.0.

Want even more MLB best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert MLB Predictions page from NBC

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

  • Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
  • Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
  • Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
  • Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas)
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Cubs at Mets prediction: Odds, expert picks, starting pitchers, betting trends, and stats for May 9

One of the more highly anticipated series of the young season begins Friday when the Chicago Cubs (22-16) take on the New York Mets (24-14) at Citi Field.

Jameson Taillon is slated to start for Chicago against Clay Holmes for New York.

The Cubs come to town after an off-day Thursday. They lost Wednesday, 3-1, in the series finale to San Francisco. Chicago could muster but four hits off of Robbie Ray and the Giants. Nico Hoerner had two of the four hits. The Mets traveled home Thursday following a three-game series in Arizona. Juan Soto blasted two home runs in a 7-1 Mets' win Wednesday.

Lets dive into the matchup and find a sweat or two.

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch tipoff, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.

Game details & how to watch Cubs at Mets

  • Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
  • Time: 7:10PM EST
  • Site: Citi Field
  • City: Queens, NY
  • Network/Streaming: MARQ, SNY, MLBN

Never miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.

Odds for the Cubs at the Mets

The latest odds as of Thursday:

  • Moneyline: Cubs (+138), Mets (-164)
  • Spread:  Mets -1.5
  • Total: 7.0 runs

Probable starting pitchers for Cubs at Mets

  • Pitching matchup for May 9, 2025: Jameson Taillon vs. Clay Holmes
    • Cubs: Jameson Taillon (2-1, 3.86 ERA)
      Last outing: 5/3 at Milwaukee - 6IP, 2ER, 3H, 1BB, 5Ks
    • Mets: Clay Holmes (4-1, 2.95 ERA)
      Last outing: 5/2 at St. Louis - 6IP, 3ER, 8H, 0BB, 3Ks

Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Cubs at Mets

  • The Cubs lead all of baseball with 223 runs scored
  • Only the Yankees (62) and the Dodgers (59) have more home runs than the Cubs (55)
  • Juan Soto is 9-26 with 4 HRs in May (7 games)
  • Pete Alonso is 0-8 over his last 2 games

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our MLB Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Expert picks & predictions for Friday’s game between the Cubs and the Mets

Rotoworld Best Bet

Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.

Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

Here are the best bets our model is projecting for Friday's game between the Cubs and the Mets:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is staying away from a play on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Chicago Cubs at +1.5.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the over on the Game Total of 7.0.

Want even more MLB best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert MLB Predictions page from NBC

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

  • Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
  • Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
  • Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
  • Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas)
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Yankees at Athletics Prediction: Odds, expert picks, starting pitchers, betting trends and stats for May 9

Friday the Yankees (21-16) open a weekend series in Sacramento against the surprising Athletics (20-18).

Will Warren is slated to take the mound for New York against Osvaldo Bido for Oakland.

Each of these teams are off on Thursday. The Yankees are using the day to fly West following a six-game homestand that saw them go 3-3. Wednesday, they ended the homestand with their second straight win over the Padres. J.C. Escarra walked off a 4-3 win for New York with a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the tenth inning. Wednesday, the Athletics lost their second in a row to the Mariners. Jacob Wilson went 4-5 for the Athletics but it was not enough in a 6-5 loss.

Lets dive into the matchup and find a sweat or two.

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch tipoff, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.

Game details & how to watch Yankees at Athletics

  • Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
  • Time: 10:05PM EST
  • Site: Sutter Health Park
  • City: Sacramento, CA
  • Network/Streaming: YES, NBCSCA, MLBN

Never miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.

Odds for the Yankees at the Athletics

The latest odds as of Thursday:

  • Moneyline: Yankees (-142), Athletics (+120)
  • Spread:  Yankees -1.5
  • Total: 10.0 runs

Probable starting pitchers for Yankees at Athletics

  • Pitching matchup for May 9, 2025: Will Warren vs. Osvaldo Bido
    • Yankees: Will Warren (1-2, 5.65 ERA)
      Last outing: 5/4 vs. Tampa Bay - 4.2IP, 3ER, 7H, 3BB, 8Ks
    • Athletics: Osvaldo Bido (2-2, 4.71 ERA)
      Last outing: 5/3 at Miami - 5IP, 4ER, 3H, 2BB, 4Ks

Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Yankees at Athletics

  • Game Totals in Yankees' games are 16-19-2 to the OVER this season
  • The Athletics are 20-18 on the season overall and are 20-18 on the Run Line as well
  • Ben Rice is 4-20 (all doubles) through 6 games in May
  • Wednesday's game was the first that failed to see Aaron Judge reach base for the first time since April 1

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our MLB Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Expert picks & predictions for Friday’s game between the Yankees and the Athletics

Rotoworld Best Bet

Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.

Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

Here are the best bets our model is projecting for Friday's game between the Yankees and the Athletics:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is staying away from a play on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the New York Yankees -1.5.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the over on the Game Total of 10.0.

Want even more MLB best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert MLB Predictions page from NBC

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

  • Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
  • Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
  • Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
  • Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas)
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Hurricanes Falter, Capitals Take Game 2; Series Now Heads To Raleigh

May 8, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman Alexander Alexeyev (27) checks Carolina Hurricanes left wing William Carrier (28) in the second periodin game two of the second round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Capital One Arena. (Geoff Burke-Imagn Images)

The Carolina Hurricanes couldn't pull off yet another third-period comeback, falling 3-1 to the Washington Capitals in Game 2 at Capital One Arena on Thursday.

The game looked like it was going to be following the same blueprint as Game 1: the Canes have a strong first period, then the Caps strike first early in the second, but it didn't end the way that one did.

Instead, the Capitals scored twice before the Hurricanes found their first, and the Canes were then just unable to overcome that deficit with the way Washington was defending (the Caps were credited with 32 blocks once again).

"We certainly weren't great, that's for sure," said Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour. "I think you have to give Washington credit. I mean, they played a much better game. We have to be better, that's for sure. We knew it was going to be hard. Having said that, we were still right in the game

The biggest issue for Carolina though is that they just haven't been getting the bounces so far this series (the team hit the frame two more times to put their total up to seven for the series) and Washington's first goal was another prime example of that. 

Sean Walker went to flip a puck into the Capitals end from the neutral zone, but it wound up hitting his partner Shayne Gostisbehere in the throat and the puck fell right to Connor McMichael who got loose for a breakaway.

"Obviously it was unfortunate. Just trying to get the puck in their end and then it hits Shayne [Gostisbehere] in the neck, kinds of stuns him there for a sec and then they get a fast break and score," Walker said. "It's part of it. Just move on."

And you could immediately tell that that goal gave Washington some juice as they started to look much more like themselves through the second period.

"That [first] goal was a tough one just because of the way it happened," Brind'Amour said. "Nothing going on and then all of a sudden, it's a breakaway because we banged it off of our own guy. Then that got them going for sure.

The Canes struggled to muster a lot in that middle frame and when they did get their looks, they were either passing up looks, double clutching or shooting off the mark.

But despite the struggles, they were still only down by one heading to the final frame.

That was until Brent Burns turned the puck over in the neutral zone, and wound up taking a hooking penalty less than two minutes into the third.

On that man advantage, Washington's third crack on the power play in Game 2, the Capitals finally broke Carolina's perfect penalty kill as John Carlson snuck in from the blueline and slammed home a pretty pass by Tom Wilson.

"I thought our first was good and then the second period was just no good," said Jordan Staal. "Even the first half of our third was not great. We were playing in our end a little too much and just turning over one too many pucks and not really getting through the neutral zone and getting on them and all the stuff that we do. Took a penalty and obviously the PK would love to have the kill. Obviously our 5v5 game wasn't great and it kind of trended toward them getting an extra goal."

The Canes were in a 2-0 hole, but they were finally able to break through on the power play not too long after themselves as Gostisbehere answered back, putting home a rebound from the wing.

The Hurricanes were back in it, and they definitely pushed hard that period, but the team just couldn't find that extra gear and second goal.

"When we're playing our game, I think we really controlled the momentum of the game and had a lot more time in their zone and created a lot more, for sure,." Walker said. "We'll look at it tomorrow, but I think we know we got away from our game there a little bit and they capitalized and took away from our momentum. We'll look at it and move on."

Wilson, who was far and away the best player on the ice in Game 2 with his physicality, offensive impact and defensive blocks, sealed the game with the empty netter.

Despite the loss, the Canes are in a good position as they now head back to Raleigh with a 1-1 series split and a chance to take a strong lead in the series if they can stay hot at home.

"Always nice to be in front of our fans and we're going to have to take that momentum back and use our fans to do it," Staal said. "We'd love to be up two, but it's a good team and we're going to have to start fresh at home here and take it to them again.

Be sure to check out the Carolina Hurricanes 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs Hub for all postseason stories!    

Stay updated with the most interesting Carolina Hurricanes stories, analysis, breaking news and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News to never miss a story. 

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Rafael Devers tells Red Sox he won't move to first base

BOSTON — Rafael Devers is the Boston Red Sox's designated hitter.

And he's not interested in another position switch.

Speaking with reporters for the first time since Triston Casas was ruled out for the season after rupturing his left knee tendon and undergoing surgery, Devers said on Thursday that Red Sox management approached him about the idea of filling in as Boston’s first baseman.

The three-time All-Star doesn’t see it in his best interest to make another position switch after being asked to move from third base to DH during spring training after the Red Sox signed Alex Bregman to play third.

“They came to me and talked to me about it,” Devers said after homering and driving in two in Boston’s 5-0 win over Texas.

“I know I’m a ballplayer, but at the same time, they can’t expect me to play every single position out there. In spring training, they talked to me and basically told me to put away my glove. I wasn’t going to play another position other than DH. Right now, I don’t think it would be an appropriate decision by them to ask me to play another position.”

Devers said he spoke with Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow about the prospect of playing first in Casas’ absence.

For now, Boston is filling the first base spot with a platoon featuring Romy Gonzalez and Abraham Toro.

“He (Breslow) played ball. I would like to think that he knows that changing positions isn’t easy,” Devers said through Red Sox interpreter Daveson Perez.

“They put me in this situation. They told me they didn’t want me to play any other positions."

Devers offered a suggestion to Breslow, who pitched 12 major league seasons and was a key member of Boston’s bullpen when the team won the World Series in 2013. Breslow is in his second season leading the Red Sox baseball operations department.

“Now, they should do their jobs essentially and hit the market and look for another player. I’m not sure why they want me to be an in-between,” Devers said. “Next thing you know, someone in the outfield gets hurt and they want me to play in the outfield. I know the kind of player that I am and that’s where I stand.”

Asked about changing his mind in the event the Red Sox receive little production from the current group of first basemen, Devers reiterated that he’s a full-time DH.

He also stated that he was upset that Boston would consider him taking over a position where he’s logged zero innings as a big leaguer.

“They told me that I’m a little hard-headed, but they already asked me to change (positions) once. This time, I don’t think I can be as flexible,” Devers said. “I don’t feel they stayed true to their word. They told me I was going to play this position, DH. Now they’re going back on that.”

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Mets Prospect Roundup: Ryan Clifford hits game-tying homer for Binghamton, Dom Hamel starts with Syracuse

As the 2025 minor league season continues, here's a look at what Mets prospects are doing in all levels of the organization....

Double-A Binghamton Rumble Ponies

The Rumble Ponies were down 4-1 to Reading heading into the eighth inning when Ryan Clifford -- the Mets' No. 4 prospect according to Joe DeMayo -- drove a pitch from RHP Jack Dallas over the center field wall, a three-run shot to tie the game at 4-4.

It was Clifford's fifth home run this season and was the second hit of his evening. The slugger finished 2-for-5 with two strikeouts. He was the only one on Binghamton with a multi-hit game.

Binghamton would pick up the win in walk-off fashion thanks to Jett Williams, the Mets' top no-pitching prospect. The shortstop kept the ninth inning going with a walk that loaded the bases. With two out, Nick Lorusso reached on a fielding error that allowed the Rumble Ponies to push across a run and win 6-5.

Williams went 1-for-3 with two walks, a run scored and a strikeout.

Triple-A Syracuse Mets

Up with the Triple-A team, runs were hard to come by for the Mets, who went up against rehabbing Miami Marlins youngster Ryan Weathers. Syracuse fell to the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, 3-1, on Thursday night.

Dom Hamel struggled in his start, allowing three runs on five hits, three walks across three innings pitched. He did strike out five batters, but his ERA rose to 5.00 after Thursday's performance. The three runs came on three hits in the second inning.

In five starts this season, Hamel is now 1-3 with a 1.33 WHIP. He is striking out plenty of batters, picking up 22 across 18.0 innings pitched.

On the offensive side, Drew Gilbert went 1-for-4

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The Hockey News Playoff Frenzy Live: Reaction As Capitals Tie Series Against Hurricanes

Logan Thompson (Geoff Burke-Imagn Images)

Welcome to The Hockey News Playoff Frenzy Live, streaming nightly during the NHL's Stanley Cup playoffs.

After the big game of the night, our experts go live to react to the match that was, break down the key moments and storylines and read your opinions.

On tonight's show, Katie Gaus, Emma Lingan and Michael Augello react to the Washington Capitals beating the Carolina Hurricanes 3-1 to tie the second-round series at 1-1.

Capitals vs Hurricanes Game 2 - Playoff Frenzy | The Hockey NewsCapitals vs Hurricanes Game 2 - Playoff Frenzy | The Hockey NewsWelcome to Playoff Frenzy Live by The Hockey News presented by STIX.com, where we give our live reactions and break down the latest news to all the biggest g...

They also discuss Game 2 between the Edmonton Oilers and Vegas Golden Knights.

Share your thoughts in the comments, and the hosts may discuss your message during the stream.

Check out the show right now.

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Does Team Canada's World Championship Squad Have The Sidney Crosby Effect?

Nathan MacKinnon and Sidney Crosby (Eric Bolte-Imagn Images)

This year’s Canadian team for the 2025 men’s World Championship is star-studded. 

There are many name-brand, Grade-A talents on Team Canada, which will play in Stockholm, Sweden.

Hockey Canada officially announced the addition of Colorado Avalanche superstar Nathan MacKinnon and star Minnesota Wild goalie Marc-Andre Fleury. That said, the team also added St. Louis Blues goalie Jordan Binnington, Blues captain Brayden Schenn and Los Angeles Kings center Philip Danault.

Compare that lineup to last year’s Canadian lineup, where Tampa Bay Lightning left winger Brandon Hagel and Washington Capitals center Pierre-Luc Dubois were among the top players. With due respect, those players aren’t on the same level as this year’s Canadian group. The common factor in the change in roster quality is the superstar we haven’t mentioned yet: Pittsburgh Penguins icon Sidney Crosby.

It wouldn’t be surprising if the Crosby effect attracted more star power to the tournament. It’s not like he went to the Worlds the last two years the Penguins missed the playoffs. And many of the same NHL teams that were out of the playoffs by last year’s Worlds are out again.

World Championship: 10 Must-Watch NHL Players From Canada, USA And MoreWorld Championship: 10 Must-Watch NHL Players From Canada, USA And MoreThe 2025 IIHF men’s World Championship is just around the corner. 

NHL players are no different than we are when appreciating top talent. It’s one thing to encounter Crosby as an opponent in hockey’s top league or watch him from afar, but knowing he’s playing with you – well, that’s a very rare thing you should take advantage of.

We might also be seeing more talented players at the World Championship in part because there’s a higher overall quality of the NHL teams. Even some teams eliminated in the first round have some good and great players, such as MacKinnon, Schenn, Danault and Binnington.

We don’t blame any elite player for not choosing to play in the Worlds. They have a long and taxing season, and rest and recuperation must be used for their body’s benefit. 

But there’s no question Crosby makes the Worlds a must-see event. He’s now 37 years old, reuniting with his longtime teammate in Fleury, and preparing for what could be his final Olympics in 2026. Being part of that squad is a no-brainer for some star Canadian players.

The Hockey News' Remy Mastey is in Stockholm to cover the World Championship from May 9 to 25. Also check out Derek O'Brien's coverage on The Hockey News' international hockey site at THN.com/international.

Get the latest news and trending stories by following The Hockey News on Google News and by subscribing to The Hockey News newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com.

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Draymond Green accuses NBA referees of ‘agenda' after Game 2 technical foul

Draymond Green accuses NBA referees of ‘agenda' after Game 2 technical foul originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

Draymond Green is among America’s most polarizing professional athletes, feeling targeted by NBA officials and surely is high on the list of players crudely heckled by fans.

Both factors likely contributed to his brief, pointed postgame statements Thursday night at Target Center in Minneapolis, where the Warriors took a 117-93 loss to the Timberwolves in Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals.

After being assessed with a technical foul in the second quarter and getting harassed by fans in the arena, Green demonstratively expressed his feelings to reporters in the locker room.

“I’m not an angry Black man,” he said. “I’m a very successful, educated Black man, with a great family. And I’m great at basketball. Great at what I do. The agenda to try to keep making me look like an angry Black man is crazy. I’m sick of it. It’s ridiculous.”

This is the outburst of a man who feels persecuted by officials – and for years has been disparaged by fans when the Warriors are on the road. Who will ever forget the wretched treatment he received in Boston during the 2022 NBA Finals?

Yet there is an undercurrent of belief around the league that Green’s history of fines and suspensions has resulted in different and less lenient rules for him than his fellow players. Some believe it – Draymond obviously does – but others do not.

After officials’ crew chief Tony Brothers assessed, upon review, a technical foul on Green for a flailing left arm that landed on the face of Minnesota’s Naz Reid with 8:46 left in the second quarter, Green’s furious reaction prompted Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler and coach Steve Kerr to take turns interceding.

Kerr ultimately opted to put Green on the bench for the next six minutes in hopes he would cool off. There were no more flare-ups for the remainder of the game, but Draymond’s postgame statement is proof that he still was simmering.

This was Green’s fifth technical foul in nine postseason games. A one-game suspension hits after a player reaches seven. He also has two flagrant fouls on his ledger, and four of those also warrant suspension.

It’s apparent that Green was upset by something that occurred during the game. Maybe some things.

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Draymond Green accuses NBA referees of ‘agenda' after Game 2 technical foul

Draymond Green accuses NBA referees of ‘agenda' after Game 2 technical foul originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

Draymond Green is among America’s most polarizing professional athletes, feeling targeted by NBA officials and surely is high on the list of players crudely heckled by fans.

Both factors likely contributed to his brief, pointed postgame statements Thursday night at Target Center in Minneapolis, where the Warriors took a 117-93 loss to the Timberwolves in Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals.

After being assessed with a technical foul in the second quarter and getting harassed by fans in the arena, Green demonstratively expressed his feelings to reporters in the locker room.

“I’m not an angry Black man,” he said. “I’m a very successful, educated Black man, with a great family. And I’m great at basketball. Great at what I do. The agenda to try to keep making me look like an angry Black man is crazy. I’m sick of it. It’s ridiculous.”

This is the outburst of a man who feels persecuted by officials – and for years has been disparaged by fans when the Warriors are on the road. Who will ever forget the wretched treatment he received in Boston during the 2022 NBA Finals?

Yet there is an undercurrent of belief around the league that Green’s history of fines and suspensions has resulted in different and less lenient rules for him than his fellow players. Some believe it – Draymond obviously does – but others do not.

After officials’ crew chief Tony Brothers assessed, upon review, a technical foul on Green for a flailing left arm that landed on the face of Minnesota’s Naz Reid with 8:46 left in the second quarter, Green’s furious reaction prompted Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler and coach Steve Kerr to take turns interceding.

Kerr ultimately opted to put Green on the bench for the next six minutes in hopes he would cool off. There were no more flare-ups for the remainder of the game, but Draymond’s postgame statement is proof that he still was simmering.

This was Green’s fifth technical foul in nine postseason games. A one-game suspension hits after a player reaches seven. He also has two flagrant fouls on his ledger, and four of those also warrant suspension.

It’s apparent that Green was upset by something that occurred during the game. Maybe some things.

Posted on

Flyers Prospect Wins Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy

Denver Barkey of the London Knights [Kalvin Taylor/OHL Images].

Earlier today, the Ontario Hockey League announced Denver Barkey as the recipient of the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy, which is awarded annually to the OHL Humanitarian of the Year.

"It's such an honour to receive this reward," said Barkey. "It's really special for me, my family and the fan club to see so many kids and their families get a chance to play and watch the game we love." 

The Barkey's Buds program, named for the Philadelphia Flyers prospect, partnered with the London Knights Fan Club to bring more than 1,500 pieces of hockey equipment to children with learning, emotional and social disabilities through the George Bray Sports Association. The organization also provided more than 500 tickets to London-area families could come and watch Knights games.

In addition to his work with Barkey's Buds, the London Knights captain went on monthly visits to the Victoria Hospital & Children's Hospital in London. He also spoke at schools on several occasions and attended minor league hockey practices where he acted as a mentor for younger players.

"Ever since I came to London as a 16-year-old, the support and passion from the fans was something I noticed right away," said Barkey. "To be able to start Barkey's Buds and give back to the community that has treated me and my teammates so well was the least I could do."

On the ice, the fourth-year veteran had a fantastic year, scoring 25 goals and 82 points in 50 games. In the playoffs, he recorded 20 points in the Knights' opening two series before sustaining an injury that has kept him out of the lineup. 

These kinds of numbers are nothing new for London Knights fans who have seen Barkey routinely amongst the highest scorers on some stacked Knights' rosters. In the 228 games he's played in the OHL, the dynamic forward has averaged above a point-per-game, scoring a total of 258 points.

Barkey follows Mason Vaccari of the Kingston Frontenacs, who won the trophy last season, while Dalyn Wakely received the honour for his work during the 2022-23 season when he was a member of the North Battalion. 

"It's a proud moment for Denver and his family and the London Knights organization," said London GM Mark Hunter. "Denver is a high-character young man, and for him to take on this community service is something we take pride in."

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Yankees at Athletics: 5 things to watch and series predictions | May 9-11

Here are five things to watch and predictions as the Yankees head west to take on the Athletics in a three-game series starting on Friday...

Preview

Playing in West Sacramento

The Yankees are heading west for a six-game series and will make their first stop in West Sacramento to take on the Athletics in their minor league ballpark.

If you haven't seen games at Sutter Health Park, it's an experience, especially so for the players. The visitor's clubhouse is in center field and the dimensions have been very hitter-friendly. According to BaseballSavant, Sutter Health Park is the second-best hitter's park behind the Orioles' Camden Yards.

The Yankees, who have a league-leading 62 homers entering Thursday, are in town and could take advantage.

Can Carlos Rodon continue his brilliant pitching?

Rodon has been a pleasant surprise for the Yankees this season, especially considering the injuries to the rotation. The southpaw has pitched like the No. 2 arm that the Yankees needed with Gerrit Cole being out for the entire season.

In eight starts, Rodon has pitched to a 4-3 record but a 2.96 ERA. Over his last three starts, Rodon has allowed just two runs in 19.2 innings with 20 strikeouts over that span. The Athletics' lineup is young and feisty, and the longball could be a topic this weekend in Sacramento, but if Rodon continues his recent brilliance, that'll be a story as well.

Who will start series finale?

The Yankees DFA'd Carlos Carrasco earlier this week -- he's since cleared waivers and will report to Triple-A -- but the plan for the rotation this weekend is still up in the air. Rodon and Will Warren are scheduled to pitch Friday and Saturday, but Sunday's starter has not been determined. Manager Aaron Boone has said that they could use long reliever Ryan Yarbrough this time through the rotation order, but that would likely mean an opener will start that game.

Boone could also call up a starter like Allan Winans, who has major league experience,for a spot start. Either way, there's intrigue in who Sunday's starter will be.

Athletics pitcher Luis Severino (40) looks on during the second inning of the game against the San Diego Padres at Sutter Health Park
Athletics pitcher Luis Severino (40) looks on during the second inning of the game against the San Diego Padres at Sutter Health Park / Ed Szczepanski - Imagn Images

Facing Luis Severino for first time

Severino spent the first eight seasons of his career in a Yankee uniform, but two years removed from departing via free agency, the right-hander will face his old team for the first time.

The 31-year-old is scheduled to pitch the series finale on Sunday and it'll be interesting to see how he does against a team that should know what to expect from him. Severino revitalized his career with the Mets last season, but he's gotten off to an up-and-down start with the Athletics. With a 1-3 record and 3.62 ERA across eight starts, Severino has given this young Athletics team a reliable arm in the rotation.

However, Severino has not pitched well in West Sacramento. In five home starts, Severino is 0-3 with a 5.28 ERA, as opposed to his 1-0 record and 0.95 ERA in three road starts.

DJ LeMahieu's return?

The veteran infielder is so close to a return from rehab that Boone has said it's possible he can return after two starts at Triple-A. He picked up two hits in his first start with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Wednesday and is in the starting lineup for the RailRiders on Thursday. If he comes out of Thursday's game unscathed, the Yankees could activate him for the series in West Sacramento.

That would likely mean Pablo Reyes' time on the bench is numbered as the former batting champion looks to provide the Yankees with a formidable right-handed bat and infield versatility.

Predictions

Who will the MVP of the series be?

Aaron Judge

When the ball began flying out of West Sacramento in April, the baseball world salivated to see how Judge would handle the park. I have a feeling he'll have an awesome weekend.

Which Yankees pitcher will have the best start?

Carlos Rodon

Don't think the hitter-friendly confines of Sutter Health Park will affect Rodon, especially against a young team like the Athletics.

Which Athletics player will be a thorn in the Yankees' side?

Jacob Wilson

The rookie shortstop is having a great start to his 2025 season. He's batting .357 and has a .383 OBP. While he doesn't walk -- only six passes in 36 games -- he'll jump on first-pitch strikes and simply be a pest all weekend.

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Could Dak Prescott be underrated in aftermath of Cowboys trading for George Pickens?

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

Early May is usually a lull in the NFL calendar, but not this year. Tuesday's surprise trade sending receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys gave Andy Behrens and Matt Harmon plenty to talk about on the latest episode of the Yahoo Fantasy Forecast.

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The duo discussed several aspects of the Pickens trade, but among the big takeaways is the deal could mean big things for Dak Prescott's fantasy value. The veteran now appears to have top-eight quarterback upside behind the best receiving options he’s had in years.

Andy points out that Prescott was “the MVP runner-up two years ago. He led the NFL in touchdown passes. You know, we’re like a year removed from that. He’s had a 4,900 yard passing season. He’s been a really, really good fantasy asset over the years.” 

The Cowboys have upgraded their WR2 spot by trading for Pickens, forming a dynamic duo with CeeDee Lamb. Harmon notes: “Now that (Dak) has CeeDee Lamb, one of the best receivers in the league, and George Pickens, who I think fits really well as a really good No. 2 receiver, that just looks so much better on paper than CeeDee Lamb and like a rotating cast of characters.”

Harmon believes Dallas’ offense is set up for fantasy success, especially with how Lamb and Pickens complement each other perfectly: “These guys work so, so well together. CeeDee Lamb, he leads the NFL in the last two years with yards from the slot … Pickens is a boundary guy.”

“Most people seem to have (Prescott) like QB18, QB20, but he’s a better player than that,” Behrens says. “One of the bummers of this to me is that I think it’s going to wake people up a little bit to how under-ranked Dak Prescott had been.”

Prescott has remained healthy — starting 16 or more games in six of nine seasons — and provided consistent play when he's returned post-injury. Couple that with the offensive upgrades and his own previous elite finishes, and there’s every reason to expect another top-tier year if health holds. 

Behrens predicts, "Dak Prescott is very likely, in a healthy season, to be a top-eightish fantasy quarterback."

Time will tell if the projection comes true, but there's clearly a case to be made for Prescott as a fantasy-draft value this season.