Chicago Cubs vs. Seattle Mariners preview, Saturday 8/22, 6:15 CT

SEATTLE — Saturday notes…

  • THREE IS THE NUMBER OF THE COUNTING: The Cubs have not lost three consecutive games since June 7-10, when they lost at home to the Giants, 2-1, in 10 innings, then after a day off were beaten at Colorado, 7-3 and 3-2 on a walk-off. Their 40-21 surge began the next day when they beat the Rockies, 9-3. They have lost back-to-back games four times during the surge, including last Saturday and Sunday at home vs. the Cardinals, then Wednesday and Friday, at home vs. the White Sox and at Seattle. The losses in June at Colorado were the last time the Cubs lost the first two games of a series on the road. They did at home once since then, July 3-4 vs. the Cardinals. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
  • 59 AND 10: Last night’s loss was just the Cubs’ 10th in which they have scored at least five runs. They have won 59 with five or more. They dropped to 8-9 in games in which they have allowed exactly six runs, and to 11-27 with six or more. The loss last night also was only their 16th in the 60 games in which they have scored first. On the road, they are 22-11 when they have scored first. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
  • OUTHOMERING THE OTHER GUY: Last night’s game was the third this season in which the Cubs hit three more home runs than they gave up. It was the first they lost. The win were by 12-4 at home vs. the Mets on April 17 and 6-1 at San Francisco on June 13. They won a game in which they hit seven more homers. They are 5-2 when they have hit two more homers and 23-5 when they have hit one more, for a total of 32-8 when they have outhomered their opponent. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
  • TODAY IN CUBS HISTORY: Sammy Sosa hits three home runs and drives in six as the Cubs crush the Brewers 16-3 at Wrigley Field. It’s the fourth three-homer game of his career; he would eventually have six. He co-holds the MLB record for such things with Mookie Betts and Johnny Mize. It happened 25 years ago today, Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2001.

Cubs lineup:

Mariners lineup:

David Peterson, LHP vs. Kade Anderson, LHP

David Peterson returns to the Cubs rotation after a one-outing detour to the bullpen, in which he threw 1.1 scoreless innings Monday against the White Sox, throwing 22 pitches, so he should be well rested for today’s game. Overall since that debacle against the Cardinals, Peterson has a 2.06 ERA and 1.228 WHIP in 35 innings, with only three home runs allowed.

Peterson’s only career start vs. the Mariners was in 2023 and it wasn’t so great, so don’t bother clicking on that link. The only current Mariner who’s faced him more than a handful of times is Weston Wilson, who’s 4-for-10.

Kade Anderson was the Mariners’ No. 1 pick (third overall)… last year, out of LSU. He just turned 22 last month, and the Mariners surprised pretty much everyone by calling him up to make this start. Anderson will become the first player drafted in 2025 to play in MLB.

He’s put up fantastic numbers in his first pro season: 18 starts, 1.06 ERA, 0.643 WHIP, 135 strikeouts of 333 batters faced, that’s a 40.5 percent K rate, and he’s walked only 13, a 3.9 percent walk rate.

Now is when I remind you that those numbers were put up against Double-A hitters. Those numbers are far better than his two LSU seasons (37 games, 28 starts), where he had a 3.38 ERA and 1.169 WHIP. The K rate was 36.5 percent there and the walk rate 8.5 percent, very good but not like the otherworldly numbers… in 18 Double-A starts.

Teams just don’t do this sort of thing in modern baseball, but here we are. It’ll be interesting to see what happens. Obviously there’s no MLB pitch chart for him but here are some notes on his pitching style from Baseball Savant.

It should also be noted that Anderson did not throw more than 80 pitches in any of his Double-A starts. I would expect him to be on a pitch limit and to not go more than five innings.

Today’s game is on Fox-TV (regional — coverage map). A reminder that if you subscribe to MLB.TV or MLB Extra Innings, you can watch this game via those services even if it’s not on the Fox affiliate in your market. In the Chicago local market this game will be on WPWR-Ch. 50 because WFLD-Ch. 32, Fox-TV’s primary channel, is carrying the Bears preseason game.

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

MLB.com Gameday

Baseball-reference.com game preview

Please visit our SB Nation Mariners site Lookout Landing. If you do go there to interact with Mariners 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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Gamethread 8/22: Cardinals at Phillies

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - AUGUST 21: Alec Bohm #28 of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts after hitting a walk-off triple for the win against the St. Louis Cardinals in the tenth inning at Citizens Bank Park on August 21, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Heather Barry/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Here are the lineups. For the Phillies:

For the Cardinals:

Let’s talk about it.

Error proves costly as Braves bats stay cold in another loss at Brewers

Aug 22, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Martin Perez (33) throws a pitch in the first inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Even the usually stable Martín Pérez couldn’t halt the Braves’ skid that has carried throughout this week’s wild four-city road trip.

A strong few innings by the veteran lefty were derailed by an error he made in the field, causing enough of a tailspin in the aftermath that proved to be too much to overcome in Atlanta’s 4-1 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers Saturday afternoon.

With the loss, the Braves (75-55) have lost five of six games on this road trip and seven of nine games overall. Should the Phillies win their eighth straight game later on Saturday, the division lead would fall to three games.

The Braves opened a 1-0 lead in the top of the first when Drake Baldwin worked a leadoff walk, moved to third on Matt Olson’s single and scored on Michael Harris II’s double. But it was something of a chance wasted when Atlanta managed to scrape across just the one run with runners in scoring position and one out after Ozzie Albies popped out and Mauricio Dubón lined out to right.

Still, it was the Braves’ first run scored in the first two innings of a game since last Saturday, no doubt a step in the right direction.

That joy was somewhat short-lived, however, as the Brewers rallied to take the lead in the third thanks to Pérez’s critical error.

The left-hander bobbled a slow-roller back his way to allow Cooper Pratt to reach on a leadoff error. After consecutive fielder’s choices moved the runner to third, William Contreras brought him home with a single to right, tying the game on an unearned run.

That jumped up to three unearned runs when Jake Bauers crushed a two-run homer on the 12th pitch of his at-bat 413 feet to center to give Milwaukee a 3-1 lead. What should have been a 12-pitch inning and a 1-0 lead turned into a 37-pitch inning, leaving Pérez at 74 pitches through three and putting a relative cap on how long his outing could be.

Another extended inning where he allowed one more run — close to best-case scenario after Milwaukee had runners on first and third with no outs — ended Pérez’s outing after just four innings. He allowed four runs (one earned) on four hits, leaving the Braves in a 4-1 hole that felt insurmountable given Atlanta’s recent offensive output.

As it turned out, that instinct proved correct. After three of the first four Braves reached against Brewers starter Logan Henderson, the rookie retired 16 of the final 20 Atlanta batters he faced.

By the time his outing concluded after six innings, Henderson’s tough start was long gone as he held the Braves to one run on five hits and two walks with four strikeouts.

Victor Mederos gave Atlanta one scoreless inning of relief, and Brent Suter followed with three shutout innings to give the Braves offense a chance to come to life. But Atlanta couldn’t scrape a run across in the seventh against Chad Patrick, eighth against DL Hall or ninth against Aaron Ashby.

The ninth inning, which the Braves led off with back-to-back singles before Lane Thomas flew out and Austin Riley grounded into a game-ending 6-4-3 double play, summed up the recent slump, which has seen the Braves score two or fewer runs in five of their six games this week.

The Braves will look to avoid their second straight sweep Sunday night in a neutral-site finale against the Brewers at the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pa.

Yankees' late rally falls short in 4-3 loss to Blue Jays

The Yankees rallied late after being kept off balance by Dylan Cease, but fell short in their 4-3 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday afternoon in the Bronx.

New York was no-hit by Cease for 6.2 innings before back-to-back singles knocked the Cy Young candidate out of the game, and picked up a run along the way. A two-run shot by Luis Garcia Jr. off of Tyler Rogers in the eighth cut the Jays' lead to 4-3. Against Louis Varland in the ninth, Jazz Chisholm Jr. led off with a double, but Austin Wells struck out, Jose Caballero grounded out, and Trent Grisham struck out to end the game.

The Yankees' five-game winning streak was snapped and they were out-hit 15-4. New York finished 1-for-12 with RISP and left seven on base. Toronto was 4-for-18 with RISP and left 12 on base.

Here are some takeaways...

-The Blue Jays made Ryan Weathers work early, pushing across a run in the first inning on three hits, with George Springer lacing a one-out single to get Toronto on the board.

Weathers would pitch around baserunners in the second and third, but Toronto put the pressure on the southpaw in the fourth. Kazuma Okamoto led off with a ground-rule double and Ernie Clement reached on a perfectly placed bunt to put runners on the corners with no outs. Charles McAdoo punched a one-out single into center field. After a couple of pitches to Myles Straw, Weathers called for the trainers and left the game with left forearm discomfort. 

Yerry De los Santos came in and got Straw to fly out and, after a walk to load the bases, De los Santos got Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to ground out and escape without further damage.

Weathers tossed 72 pitches (51 strikes) in 3.1 innings, allowing two runs on eight hits while striking out three batters. 

-Going up against Cease, runs would be a premium, but the bats didn't do themselves any favors. They stranded a runner on third with one out in the first two innings. Heliot Ramos (strikeout) and Garcia (strikeout) strandedGrisham in the first, while Chisholm (flyout) andWells (strikeout) left Spencer Jones 90 feet away from homeplate.

The Yankees put pressure on Cease in the fifth after two walks. Caballero smashed a line drive, but the shortstop snagged it and doubled up George Lombard Jr. at second to end the inning. Cease would push his no-hit bid until two outs in the seventh when Chisholm looped a single into right field. That hit made Wells the tying run with two runners on, and the Yankees backstop lined a hit to score the team's first run and chase Cease.

Caballero was hit by a pitch to load the bases for Grisham, but the outfielder grounded out to end the threat and put a bow on Cease's day.

The Cy Young candidate allowed one run on two hits and five walks through 6.2 innings. He struck out eight batters. 

-De los Santos would allow another run in the fifth on a pinch-hit single by Nathan Lukes before giving way to Bradley Hanner in the seventh. Lukes would take Hanner deep in the eighth to give the Jays some breathing room after the Yankees cut their deficit to two runs.

-Guerrero Jr., activated before the game from the concussion IL, went 2-for-5 with a run scored.

Game MVP: Dylan Cease

Without Cease's 6.2 no-hit innings, the Yankees may have been able to complete the comeback.

Highlights

What's next

The Yankees and Blue Jays wrap up their weekend series on Sunday afternoon. First pitch is set for 1:35 p.m.

Carlos Rodon (4-2, 3.22 ERA) will make his second start since coming off the IL. He'll go up against Jose Soriano (10-6, 3.23 ERA). 

Randy Vásquez shoves, France powers up as San Diego tops Twins in series opener

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 21: Ty France #25 of the San Diego Padres is congratulated by Manny Machado #13 after hitting a two-run home run against the Minnesota Twins during the first inning at Petco Park on August 21, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The San Diego Padres desperately needed to get back in the win column. Yes, they occupy the last Wild Card spot. Yes, they’re on a hot streak as one of the best second-half teams in baseball. And yet, it could all come to an end so quickly. The Friars struggled this week in a series loss to the New York Mets. They needed a win like the one they got Friday night.

Ty France got on the board quickly with a towering two-run shot in the first inning. Starter Randy Vásquez wouldn’t need that lead until the fourth inning. He pitched a perfect three frames before running into trouble in the fourth. Vásquez gave up two runs to tie the game before San Diego topped the Minnesota Twins with a four-run fifth inning. That would be enough as Vásquez pitched seven fantastic innings. The righty was in vintage form Friday night. His resurgence would be a massive development for San Diego.

This is another winnable series for the Friars. If they can finish the Twins off tonight and go for the sweep, it would be a huge sigh of relief for the Padres as well as the Friar Faithful. The offense will need to look like it did last night in order to do so, but that order isn’t nearly as tall as it used to be.

Taking the mound

Dean Kremer (MIN) v. Casey Mize (SD)

Kremer is a recent acquisition for the Twins. Minnesota recently traded for the right-hander’s services at the Deadline. Since joining the Twins, Kremer has looked decent. In his first two outings, he gave up just two runs across 12 innings pitched. But, in his most recent appearance, Kremer surrendered four runs over just 5 1/3 innings.

That may bode well for the Friars, as many in the lineup have faced him before. Though sparingly, most of the Padres have seen Kremer’s stuff well in the past. It’s unlikely that will change tonight, and it should give San Diego an edge against Minnesota.

It’s the battle of the Deadline deals with Mize on the other side of the bump. Since coming to San Diego, Mize has looked good in the brown and gold. After having just about the worst debut game ever (8 ER, 3.1 IP), the right-hander has since pitched incredibly for the Friars (2 ER, 12.0 IP). There’s no suggestion that won’t continue against Minnesota tonight.

The Twins have faced Mize before. The righty spent all of his career in the AL Central with the Detroit Tigers before coming to San Diego. That gives veteran players like Byron Buxton and Ryan Jeffers an edge against the righty. Buxton owns a .348 batting average and 1.087 OPS against Mize (23 at-bats).

Batter up!

The offense was pristine Friday night, with Fernando Tatis Jr. going 3-for-4. As a matter of fact, the top four batters in the order (Tatis, Luis Rengifo, Manny Machado and France) went a combined 8-for-13 with two walks. The rest of the lineup went 1-for-16 with two walks.

  1. Fernando Tatis Jr., RF
  2. Luis Rengifo, LF
  3. Manny Machado, 3B
  4. Ty France, 1B
  5. Jackson Merrill, CF
  6. Luis Campusano, C
  7. Gavin Sheets, DH
  8. Xander Bogaerts, SS
  9. Jake Cronenworth, 2B

Merrill has looked worse for wear lately, batting .080 across his last seven games with a blistering 13 strikeouts in 25 at-bats. The center fielder has just started to turn things around post All-Star break. Hopefully he can rediscover the groove he was in sooner rather than later.

Relief corps

Between Michael King’s gem in New York, the off day on Thursday and Vásquez twirling seven innings, the bullpen is well-rested in San Diego. Bradgley Rodriguez and Mason Miller covered the final two innings of the series opener, pitching two perfect frames. Miller struck out all three batters he faced.

That leaves Griffin Canning, Jeremiah Estrada, Kyle Hart, Yuki Matsui, Adrian Morejon and Wandy Peralta available out of the ‘pen for the Friars. Manager Craig Stammen has plenty of options to turn to once Mize exits the game, though Canning or Hart may be out first if Mize hits trouble early.

SB Nation Reacts Results: E-Rod to the front

HOUSTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 7: Eduardo Rodriguez #57 of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitches against the Houston Astros during the first inning at Minute Maid Park on September 7, 2024 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Jack Gorman/Getty Images) | Getty Images

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

This week’s question was in regard to a – for now, theoretical – playoff series for the Diamondbacks. Who would we want to start Game 1 in the postseason for Arizona. Right now, there are a number of potential candidates. Brandon Pfaadt has been excellent since his return from Reno (save that last start in Boston!). Eduardo Rodriguez has been the team’s Most Valuable Pitcher overall, since the beginning of the year. And they should be getting reinforcements for the stretch run in a couple of weeks, in the form of Corbin Burnes. A former Cy Young winner should never be discounted, even if ring-rust is an obvious potential concern.

Here’s how you voted.

Brought to you by FanDuel

That was a little bit of a surprise. Fandom is nothing if not reactive: it’s what we do. Lose a game to the Red Sox and social media is full of “season over” comments. Pfaadt’s recent run of success has been so stellar, I was expecting him to be the top pick. However, the SnakePit has taken a somewhat longer term view. Rodriguez may not have been as spectacular as Pfaadt. But there’s probably a better chance of a reasonable outing. After last night, their average Game Scores for 2026 are almost identical: just three-tenths of one point separate them, with Pfaadt on 56.5 and Rodriguez on 56.2. But the latter’s quality start rate is 62%, compared to Brandon’s 46%.

Pfaadt has three starts in his fourteen, where he got an out in the sixth inning, and allowed one or two runs, but wasn’t able to finish the inning to record the QS. Rodriguez has two like that, but that is a much lower percentage of his 26 outings. Though in terms of average innings pitched per start, their numbers are again, very close. Rodriguez is a best on the team 6.0, with Pfaadt just behind at 5.9. The Boston outing was definitely a bit of a reality check, but it’s not as if Brandon was going to pitch to a 1.15 ERA forever. Fingers crossed he can bounce back on Tuesday against the Cubs.

Interesting to note that a double-digit percentage of voters opted to roll the dice on Corbin Burnes. I can see the appeal, and if he proves himself over the last few weeks of the season, there’s a definite possibility he will indeed get the call. He is scheduled to pitch in a camp game this Tuesday, and is expected to throw around 35 pitches. If all goes well, he can then start to ramp up, though it is still going to be significantly into September before he can be considered as a candidate for rejoining the roster. I’d say he’ll need at least three or four more rehab appearances beyond Tuesday, though I’m sure Corbin will be lobbying to make it as short as possible.

Luka Dončić’s Lakers future thrown into question amid insider’s rival team report

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Luka Doncic in a yellow Lakers jersey with number 77 and

The uncertainty regarding the Lakers’ season outlook could impact star guard Luka Dončić’s future with the franchise.

ESPN NBA insider Tim MacMahon indicated this during an episode of “The Hoop Collective Podcast” on Friday, as he said, “Just like Joker [Nikola Jokic] can profess his loyalty to the Nuggets, there’s still going to be teams that are positioned themselves and monitoring that and all that kind of thing. It’s the same thing with Luka Dončić.”

Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts on the court during the first half at Barclays Center on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, in Brooklyn, NY. Corey Sipkin for NY Post

“[Dončić has] done nothing but express optimism and excitement about the Lakers since he signed that extension,” MacMahon added.

“But it’s not that long term of an extension, and you better believe there’s teams around the league that are looking at that situation and saying, ‘Hey, if this thing goes sideways, we’d sure like to get Luka in the midway through his prime.'”

Granted, this report from MacMahon isn’t anything more than speculation. And the fact that Dončić has indicated his willingness to remain with the Lakers should be seen as a very good sign.

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic leaves the InterContinental Hotel for a team dinner on Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026, in Ljubljana, Slovenia. The dinner was held during the Lakers’ team mini camp. Andrej Tarfila/Shutterstock

But this sentiment from MacMahon makes sense if the Lakers’ season doesn’t go according to plan. If this team gets hit with an injury bug or otherwise doesn’t perform up to its capabilities both this season and in the future, putting Dončić on the trade block to kick-start a full rebuild might be the most likely path forward.

Thankfully, Lakers fans don’t have to worry about this potential future scenario quite yet. But it’s a story that will be worth following once the upcoming NBA season tips off.


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Texas Rangers lineup for August 22, 2026

ARLINGTON, TX - AUGUST 21: Ezequiel Duran #20 of the Texas Rangers reacts after has was doused with Powerade after defeating the Los Angeles Angels at Globe Life Field on Friday, August 21, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Courtney Kramer/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

Texas Rangers lineup for August 22, 2026 against the Anaheim Angels: starting pitchers are Cody Bradford for the Rangers and Ryan Johnson for the Angels.

Texas will try to win another game today, and it would be nice if they’d score runs before the inning count gets into double digits.

The lineup:

Pederson — DH

Seager — SS

Langford — LF

Nimmo — RF

Duran — 3B

Carter — CF

Burger — 1B

Freeman — 2B

Jansen — C

6:05 p.m. Central start time. Rangers are -165 favorites.

Washington Nationals vs Miami Marlins Game Thread

MIAMI, FL - AUGUST 21: Jakob Marsee (87) of the Miami Marlins slides to third base as Brady House (12) of the Washington Nationals attempts to tag during a game between the Miami Marlins and the Washington Nationals on August 21, 2026 at LoanDepot Park in Miami, Florida.(Photo by Chris Arjoon/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Nats actually mounted a rare 9th inning comeback last night, but it was not enough in the end. Now they will look to even the series here in Miami. The pitching has been decent enough lately but the injury stricken lineup has struggled. Hopefully they can put together a complete performance.

Usually when there is a righty starter on the mound the Nats load up with lefties, but not today. There are 5 righties in the lineup today. The struggling Dylan Crews is in the 2 spot. Andrew Pinckney and Jose Tena have been put back in the lineup for this one. So has Harry Ford, who will do the catching. Jake Irvin will look to string together a quality start.

The Marlins have two new faces at the bottom of the order. Javier Sanoja and Esteury Ruiz came off the bench yesterday but they will start today. Otherwise it is the same cast of characters as last night. Miami has their young ace Eury Perez on the mound. Perez has been pitching very well lately.

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Game Info:

Stadium: loanDepot Park

Time: 4:10 PM EST

TV: Nationals.TV and FS1

Radio: 106.7 The Fan

The Nats showed some spirit last night, but the team is just a shadow of what it once was. They desperately need a good offensive performance but it will be tough with Perez on the mound. Follow along in the comments down below and let’s go Nats.

Yankees starter Ryan Weathers pulled from game with left forearm discomfort

Aug 22, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Ryan Weathers (40) pitches against the Toronto Blue Jays during the first inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

By almost all measures, the Yankees’ decision to roll the dice this past offseason and trade for lefty starter Ryan Weathers has worked out like gangbusters. A talented arm that was once the seventh overall pick in the MLB Draft, Weathers had never thrown more than 95 big-league innings in a season despite debuting at the beginning of the decade. But the Yankees knew that with a rotation as deep as theirs, they could slot him in the back, allow him to flourish with lower expectations, and see what happened.

Although Weathers got off to an uneven start, once the Yankees got to work with him a little more, he turned into quite the steady, productive arm to have in the third or fourth spot of a rotation. On the season, he had a 3.56 ERA and 118 ERA+, and it was a 2.56 ERA from the beginning of July onward. In fact, in the past month, no qualified starter had a better ERA than Weathers’ 0.85. That was, of course, unsustainable, but spoke to how tough Weathers could be to hit at his best. And this was all coming from a guy who was firmly behind Cam Schlittler, Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, and Carlos Rodón on the rotation depth chart.

Weathers has been key to the part of the Yankees that has carried them since Aaron Judge went down at the end of May. Their offense has often been paltry, but the pitching has firmly held up. Now, it must be tested again because the injury bug has finally come at last for Weathers. He left his start on Saturday afternoon against the Blue Jays, mid-at-bat in the fourth. Weathers had allowed two runs on eight hits (granted, some weak contact) with three K’s in 3.1 innings. Out came the trainer …

… and soon, out came the ominous report.

That is, in short, a damn shame. Imaging will reveal more, but the Yankees will no doubt play it carefully with Weathers.

In terms of immediate impact, the Yankees will need to fill Weathers’ spot in the rotation this coming week, particularly with a doubleheader on deck for next Saturday against Boston. Prospect Elmer Rodríguez has come up from Triple-A a few times in 2026 and could very well do so again. The doubleheader might create an opportunitity for spot starter Brendan Beck as well. Luis Gil is rehabbing as a reliever, so he would seem to be out of the equation.

Regardless, the Yankees are undoubtedly hoping these are all short-term solutions, as Fried—who just returned to the IL with another bone bruise in his left elbow—is already throwing in anticipation of a minimum IL stint. The soonest he could get back from the IL is the last series of August, though he’s probably more beholden to a throwing schedule than that. As far as Weathers goes, we’ll just have to see how serious the concern is on the elbow. If it’s Tommy John time, then see you in 2028. If it seems like he could still impact the team in 2026, perhaps it will be time to start using him in the bullpen in anticipation of a possible playoff role there (which was always possible given the rotation depth). That may be the best-case at this point.

Canadiens Players To Attend Hockey Fest

On Sunday, August 23, the Galeries Saint-Hyacinthe will host the Hockey Fest. The day should be a delight for Montreal Canadiens fans, as Lane Hutson, Arber Xhekaj, and former Hab Chris Nilan will be on hand to meet fans. The event will run from 10:00 to 17:00, and attendees can register to take part in a skills challenge with the players. Spots are limited, and the only way to book yours is to attend.

The players will be present from 11:30 to 15:00, and fans who register for the skills challenge can get personalized souvenir cards. Every 30 minutes from 11:30 to 15:00, there will be an official Habs jersey to be won. Gift cards from the shopping center will also be drawn at random. Winners have to be on site to claim their prize. Canadiens’ mascot Youppi! will also be in attendance, and there will be some fun games in the animated zone to test attendees’ reflexes. The event is free to attend, and it’s a great activity to take the kids to before the dreaded back-to-school week.

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While there is still over a month to go before the start of the season, defenseman Xhekaj remains an RFA and in need of a new contract. One has to wonder whether the Canadiens will manage to ink the fan favorite before training camp starts, or if something else is in the works given the congestion on the Canadiens’ blueline.

With Mike Matheson, Noah Dobson, Hutson, Alexandre Carrier and Kaiden Guhle having established themselves as regulars, there is little space remaining for Xhekaj, Jayden Struble, and rookies Adam Engstrom and David Reinbacher, who are now knocking on the NHL’s door. Something will have to give, and while fans are unlikely to want to see Xhekaj go, he remains one of the top candidates for a move given how little ice time Martin St-Louis seems willing to give him.


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Gaslamp Reacts Survey Results: Fans not in favor of promoting Ethan Salas

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JULY 12: Ethan Salas #14 of the San Diego Padres singles in the second inning during the 2026 All-Star Futures Game Presented by Nike at Citizens Bank Park on Sunday, July 12, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rob Tringali/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Padres fans and fans across the country.

There has been plenty of discussion in recent days about the possibility of the San Diego Padres calling up their top prospect catcher Ethan Salas for the postseason push to close out the 2026 season. He has been drawing rave reviews since his promotion to Triple-A with the El Paso Chihuahuas.

In 17 games with the Chihuahuas, Salas has made 64 plate appearances and has recorded 23 hits, giving him a .359 average. Salas has three home runs, a triple, six doubles and nine walks. He has only struck out eight times and. Salas has also driven in 20 runs and scored 11 runs over that span. Salas is just 1-for-3 on stolen base attempts. His defense, which has always been what made him a valuable prospect, has continued to improve in the areas of pitch framing and throwing out runners, although he has allowed some passed balls.

The offensive performance of any prospect at the Triple-A level can sometimes be inflated due to the playing conditions in the Pacific Coast League, but that typically surrounds the power numbers and Salas has hit just three home runs. He has excelled at making contact and driving the ball. It is his offensive success with the Chihuahuas that has got media and fans thinking he might have success at the MLB level. Even Gaslamp Ball’s own Thomas Conroy published an article this week in which he made the case for why the Padres should bring Salas up to the major league roster.

The Gaslamp Reacts Survey poll question this week asked respondents what they thought about a possible promotion for the catching prospect and the majority think he should finish the season at Triple-A.

Not bringing Salas up to the majors might not be the exciting move, but it may be the more prudent move. In the event of a lockout after the CBA expires in December, the Padres organization could not communicate with Salas if he is on the 40-man roster and he would not be able to play in the minors. If there is a lockout and if it does extend into the season, it could be detrimental to Salas’ development. There is also the argument that San Diego should only add Salas if the intention is to play him. The stretch run of the season in which the Padres are fighting for a postseason berth may not be the best time for a 20-year-old catcher to make his MLB debut when you have two veteran catchers who have different strengths and skillsets already in place.

Salas’ time is coming, but the Friar Faithful do not think his time is now.

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