When speaking with reporters Monday, April 13, Haliburton revealed that the medication he has been taking for the shingles diagnosis has led to weight gain and being out of shape, thus delaying his progress on the Achilles.
"This has sucked," Haliburton said. "My dad had it during the Finals on his stomach; a lot of people get it there, but mine has been on my face, so I couldn’t even go in front of a camera if I wanted to, earlier, because my eye was basically closed shut and it was all over my face."
Haliburton added that he didn’t feel itchiness for the first two weeks, but that he had a bad rash.
"But then when the rash went away, the itching came," he continued. "It’s been miserable."
Haliburton was speaking to reporters for his final interview before the team departed for the offseason. Indiana struggled significantly without Haliburton and also faced several other key injuries early in the season.
The Pacers finished the season with a 19-63 record, which was second-worst in the NBA. The Pacers had good reason to underperform, as a midseason trade with the Los Angeles Clippers that brought Ivica Zubac resulted in Indiana’s 2026 first-round draft pick being protected for picks No. 1-4 and 10-30. That means that if the Pacers fall in that 5-9 range in the lottery, the selection will go to the Clippers.
"I lost part of my eyebrow, my eye is always swollen from itching it," Haliburton continued. "I have good days and bad days, but for the most part, it’s bad days. It has not been any fun.
"I’ve been taking unbelievable amounts of medication to try to get rid of it. It hasn’t worked. It has obviously caused me to gain weight and look a little bigger, so that has been a topic of conversation through social media and stuff, but what can you do?"
Despite all that, Haliburton remained optimistic that the treatment would solve the issue and said he expects his training over the offseason will lead to a return to playing shape.
"I feel great," he said. "My body feels great. I feel like I’m in a great spot in terms of my leg."
In 73 games last season, Haliburton averaged 18.6 points, 9.2 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. He hit several massive shots late in games throughout the regular season and playoffs, posting one of the most prolific stretches of clutch performances in NBA history.
The Anaheim Ducks entered Sunday’s matchup against the Vancouver Canucks with a chance to clinch a playoff berth and end their eight-year playoff drought. They controlled their destiny and needed two points to clinch, but only got one, as they lost in overtime.
On the positive side, the Ducks saw the return of their top goalscorer, Cutter Gauthier, who had been sidelined for the previous five games with an upper-body injury. Gauthier (22) entered with 65 points (38-27=65) in 73 games for the Ducks this season.
He notched his 39th of the year early in Sunday’s game and added his 40th on the power play, in the third period, to bring the Ducks within one goal, as they mounted their comeback effort.
Gauthier’s 40th goal marked the 11th time an Anaheim Ducks player has reached that achievement, and he was the fourth player in franchise history to get there, joining Teemu Selanne (five times), Paul Kariya (three times), and Corey Perry (twice). Perry was the last to reach that milestone in the 2013-14 season, where he scored 43 in 81 games.
Gauthier is the second-youngest of the bunch (Paul Kariya) to score 40 goals in a season, and he now has 17 goals in his last 21 games, heading into the final two of the regular season.
“It’s a huge milestone and something I’m very proud of,” Gauthier said after Sunday’s overtime loss. “I couldn’t have done it without all my linemates and teammates. It was fun to get that, but that’s not why I’m playing hockey. I’m playing hockey to win games and eventually win a Stanley Cup.”
Gauthier has solidified himself as one of the Ducks’ cornerstone pieces to build around. The Philadelphia Flyers selected him (5th overall in 2022) four years ago, and he was acquired by the Ducks in Jan. 2024 in exchange for defenseman Jamie Drysdale and a 2025 second-round pick (Jack Murtagh).
Gauthier signed his ELC after his sophomore season at Boston College and played one game to finish out the 2023-24 season, notching his first career point, an assist. He scored 44 points (20-24=44) in 82 games during his rookie season, and upon the addition of a new head coach, Joel Quenneville, in the 2025-26 season (his second full season in the NHL), he gained experience, comfort, and confidence in the NHL. Gauthier is becoming everything that had been hoped for when he was brought to Anaheim.
He’s found and continues to find new ways to unleash his shot on the rush, on the cycle, in movement, at a standstill, through traffic, from distance, and off either leg. He’s found ways to utilize his speed, streaking down the wing, forechecking, and finding soft ice to present himself as a passing option.
Gauthier has a rare ability to beat NHL goaltenders from distance and provide instant offense in any scenario throughout any game. At his size (6-foot-2, 205 pounds), he can protect pucks in open ice and along the walls, and his 200-foot game is rounding out as well. Ideally, his strengths project to amplify in the playoffs, when games tighten up and matter most.
“We’ve never played in the playoffs before, so we don’t know what to exactly expect,” Gauthier said of looking forward to his first potential playoff experience this season. “We’ve played in some big games growing up, and the things I’ve learned from those games is to keep your emotions even keeled and not get too high or too low.
“It’s a very emotional stage, with the fans and everyone playing their hearts out, trying to win the Stanley Cup. The more we can stay even keeled and go with our game plan that Q has set, all of our coaches have set, and what we believe in the locker room, it’s going to benefit us.”
The Ducks will hope to either have clinched or clinch a playoff spot by the time their game against the Minnesota Wild on Tuesday evening concludes in St. Paul. Gauthier will look to provide a substantial impact when it comes to making any kind of noise beyond the 82-game regular season and moving forward into future playoff appearances for his Ducks team.
His ELC expires on July 1, and he’s currently eligible to sign an extension. Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek now has a track record of taking his RFAs coming off ELCs into training camp with negotiations. However, ideally, he has his young 40-goal scorer locked up to a long-term deal well before then.
Being first in the NHL is all fun for most of the season. Goal scoring, good defense, stable goaltending, all things clicking all at the same time, that shows that this team really can make a deep run into the Stanley Cup Playoffs, that's, until you win the Presidents' Trophy.
Despite your hard work all season, the collective of fans and media online now hit you with “since you won the Presidents Cup, you're not going to win, you have the curse”, but is it really a curse? What is the stipulation that, for so long as the best regular-season team doesn't win the trophy because of some “curse”?
The Originations Of The Curse
You can say the curse really “started” in the 2013 playoffs, where the last team that won the Presidents' Trophy was the Chicago Blackhawks, who ended up beating the Boston Bruins in the finals. Since then, no team that has won the trophy has gone on to win the Stanley Cup, especially notable teams that looked destined to win it all but lost in the finals or earlier rounds.
The 2010-2011 Vancouver Cancucks, league high 54 wins, but ended up losing in Game seven of the finals, and is known for what happened after the loss. The 2018-2019 Tampa Bay Lightning tied the NHL record for wins (62) but were swept in the first round by the Columbus Blue Jackets. More recently, the 2022-2023 Boston Bruins broke the NHL records for wins and points in a season, but lost in the first round to the eventual champions, the Florida Panthers.
Nick Blankenburg was worried for his coach after Loss To The Vegas Golden Knights
In the 2022 post-season, where the Colorado Avalanche won the Stanley Cup, the Florida Panthers won the Presidents' Trophy but lost in the first round to the Washington Capitals in six games.
The season before that, when the Avalanche won the Presidents' Trophy, they lost to the Vegas Golden Knights in the second round in six games. All these accumulated losses just fuel the fire that regular-season success doesn't translate into playoff success.
Best Opportunity In A Long Time
It's safe to say that, compared to the last three Colorado Avalanche teams we have seen enter the playoffs, this is by far the best. Forward depth, defensive depth, and a strong goaltending tandem give flashes of the 2022 championship team, with how stacked their lines are.
Though it raises certainty that this team's window is now, management knows it and is capitalizing on it. All the trades made by the deadline, how the teams' caps look for the next three to four seasons, people don't get younger, and chances with how well everyone is playing need to be capitalized on. With three games remaining, they could match their 2021-2022 season total of 119 points or even beat it.
An Ace Up Their Sleeve?
If there is a “cancellation”, “divert”, or even a “dispel” on this President's Trophy curse, is that the Colorado Avalanche won a Stanley Cup the same season they won the Presidents' Trophy, back in the 2000-2001 season.
Beating the New Jersey Devils in seven games, led by Joe Sakic, Peter Forsberg, and Milan Hejduk, they helped the Colorado Avalanche secure their second Stanley Cup in franchise history, while finishing the regular season with a league-best 52-16-10-4 record (118 points).
If there is anything that could negate this “curse,” it's the history of the Avalanche's past coming to help them, but that all depends on whether you believe what people say about this “curse”. Despite a strong start to the season, the Avalanche have shown flashes of weakness that they will need to either cover up or protect come the playoffs.
It has been an excellent season, with success coming from different players in every game. It should be one to be remembered, but like all sports, it's not a successful season if you don’t win the championship, and that's going to be a story to tell if they don’t win it all.
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - APRIL 12: Luke Raley #20 of the Seattle Mariners hoists the trident after beating the Houston Astros at T-Mobile Park on April 12, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Mops are on the table, I repeat, mops are ON the table. The Seattle Mariners have won their first series of 2026, and have the mopportunity to send the reeling Houston Astros on their way in an ambulance. This is sadly literally true as much as figurative, as Houston is falling apart physically as much as performance-wise. Today launched another flurry of injury news for the browbeaten Texans.
On the bump today are a newcomer and and oldcomer to the AL West – RHP Mike Burrows for the Astros takes his first crack at the Mariners since coming over from the Pittsburgh Pirates this winter, while George Kirby will look to build on a trio of solid outings that showcased his trademark efficiency. Additionally, we got a little injury update from Dan Wilson on Bryce Miller:
Lineups
Sorry this is truly the least aesthetically pleasing but I am a-hustling. It’s a Mitch Garver day behind the plate, while Houston’s lineup continues to thin.
Game Info
First Pitch: 1:10 p.m. PDT TV: Mariners TV Radio: Old Reliable
I have found one more positive of a tanking season. The Brooklyn Nets hosted exit interviews on Monday morning, but thanks to the players that had already bid farewell to the season (largely due to season-ending injury), the festivities at HSS Training Center lasted only a couple hours instead of the the usual marathon.
General Manager Sean Marks and Head Coach Jordi Fernández shared the first podium, then Michael Porter Jr. joined on Zoom before Noah Clowney reflected on his season in person. And that was it. Clowney was particularly introspective about his season, at one point saying, “I think I progressed this year, maybe not as much as I wanted to or as much as I thought I would have.”
Clowney had a fascinating third season; his 1780 minutes were more than his first two years combined, and he morphed into a full-time wing who shot a ton of threes and drew plenty of fouls, driving the ball more than he ever has. He shot very well on corner threes but very poorly on above-the-break attempts, a fact that he discussed on Monday, but we’ll save Clowney’s self-analysis for a genuine, in-depth look at his growth another day.
Our Jordan Greene will have a full run-down of noteworthy quotes from Nets exits tomorrow, like Fernández admitting that the stress of losing took a toll on him, or Marks once again emphasizing high-minute counts for the rookies. But the main story of the day was, of course, what roster moves await Brooklyn this summer. Namely a potential Michael Porter Jr. extension, as well as team options looming for Josh Minott and Day’Ron Sharpe.
Porter Jr. is entering the final year of a five-year contract in 2026-27, which would pay him nearly $41 million. Thus, the 27-year-old (turning 28 in June) is up for an extension, and fortunately for him, it comes after the best individual season of his NBA career, where he averaged 24/7/3 as a true first option.
Marks admitted as much on Monday: “You look at his usage — it’s the highest it’s ever been. I don’t think anybody questioned whether he could shoot, but I think, could he be a number one option? And I think for us, he’s the number-one option. And I just enjoyed the person, I enjoyed being around him. I think he’s a fun-loving guy. He’s curious, as we all know.”
That’s a tremendous reference to MPJ’s high-octane podcasting career — Curious Mike is the name of his own pod. Still, when it came to a potential extension (or, in a different attempt to capitalize on MPJ’s resurgence, a trade), Marks didn’t give much away.
“I think in the summer there’s going to be a lot of those discussions” he said. “Whether it’s with Michael … there’s a variety of decisions we have to make with a variety of our players on the team. But in terms of a long-term build, short-term build, I think we’ve positioned ourselves over the last year or two to maintain flexibility and have optionality, which I’m really looking forward to.”
Porter Jr. was a bit more open about his contract situation, even admitting that “it hasn’t been on my mind enough until now.”
The team’s leading scorer clearly enjoyed his inaugural season in Brooklyn. He hopes it’s not his last: “If it was up to me I would love to sign an extension with this franchise.”
He continued: “I would love to spend many, many years in Brooklyn and make this my home and watch this franchise take off. Terance Mann actually just sent me a little breakdown of that stretch when we were winning … there were a lot of positives, and the front office has the ability to make some moves and make us even better.”
On the most recent episode of Locked On Nets with Erik Slater, I guessed that the Nets wouldn’t trade Porter Jr. this offseason, though I wasn’t too confident in my prediction. Simply put, it’s a tough sell to everybody — ownership, the coaching staff, the fans — to trade the best player on the team right when you’re trying to compete in earnest.
Marks even mentioned “competitiveness” as the first trait the team looks for in draft prospects: “You’ve heard us all talk about having a Brooklyn grit, being a connected guy, being part of something bigger than yourself, all the old clichés that every team uses in pro sports. But for us, you’ve got to be competitive. That’s going to be the number one thing here. Can we rely on you?”
Paying $40 million annually to a player with a rough injury history and a relative inability to create his offense may be tough to stomach. Brooklyn does have other routes to that roster flexibility and optionality Marks mentioned, though.
Day’Ron Sharpe has a $6 million team option for next season. Might the Nets try to trade Nic Claxton and ink Sharpe to a long-term extension instead, making him their starting center? It wouldn’t be so crazy. Sharpe has evolved into one of the best backup bigs in the league. This is pure speculation, but if the Nets signed him to a contract that pays $15 million annually, that’s only 9% of next year’s salary cap allocated to a starter. Not bad.
“If those talks happen and if it goes down that way, that’s probably a good problem to have,” said Marks. “And I give Day’Ron a lot of credit because he embraced the summer work last year. In his exit meeting this year — I don’t think I’m speaking out of turn — he said he wants to come back an even better, improved player. So when that’s what he wants to embark on and that’s how he’s motivated, I think that’s great.”
At his exit interview a couple weeks ago, Sharpe said he was proud of his growth this season, but that he hasn’t even thought about his contract situation moving forward: “Whatever the team has in plan for me, that’s what they got.”
Similarly, the team holds an option on Josh Minott’s $2.6 million contract for next season. Given how Minott performed after a mid-season trade from the Boston Celtics, it seems like a foregone conclusion he’ll be back as well…
Josh Minott's second 20+ point 3+ stock performance over his last 4 games, in that span averaging 17.3/2.8/1.3/3.3 on 76% TS in just 22 MPG
Immediate impact on both sides of the floor every game as the Nets continue to win his minutes, should be an extension priority in summer pic.twitter.com/Zi3e4J6P0V
Marks seemed to imply as much in his sole answer about the 23-year-old wing: “He’s really confident out there. I think the shooting is something that probably surprised me slightly, but I look forward to seeing him healthy. He was playing on one leg with us for most of the time here, so it’s nice to get that ankle taken care of, and then again, have another big summer for a young man like that.”
Minott already had the ankle injury when he arrived in Brooklyn, and even after his call-up from the G League, he missed nearly half of potential games in a Nets uniform. Some of that was due to the tank (for which he was occasionally too good), but clearly, it was also about a balky left ankle. As long as that ankle gets taken of, that’s pretty damn encouraging.
Another spit-ball here, but if Minott is extended rather than just picked up at, say, $8 million per year, Marks could lock in two real rotation players at a combined 14% of the cap. Trade Claxton, and now you’re rocking with some real flexibility no matter what happens with Porter Jr.
The rest of Brooklyn Nets’ exit day was not so eventful. Again, our Jordan Greene will have you covered with the rest of the important quotes, such as some rookie praise from both head coach and GM.
This team is still at the beginning of a rebuild, but it seems like the trend-arrow is pointing up. The Nets plan to be competitive next season, and they can improve without making splashy moves. Some lottery luck on May 12 will help, of course. No matter what happens, we’ll have full coverage on NetsDaily.
Again, thanks to all our readers for a great season. With lockers cleaned out and exit interviews over, may our offseason begin in earnest.
Sep 20, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Twins designated hitter Byron Buxton (25) celebrates a single against the Cleveland Guardians during the first inning of game two of a double header at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images | Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
After taking two-of-three from the St. Louis Cardinals, the Red Sox are 6-9, just two games out of first place in the AL East. Ditto a Wild Card spot. Their run differential is zero. The offense has scored 62 runs, third in the division after Tampa Bay (70) and New York (65). The pitching is also third in the division in runs allowed behind the Yankees (44) and Orioles (59).
After facing the National League so far this season it’s time to play in the AL. First up, the Minnesota Twins.
The Twins are off to a very solid start at 9-7, just half a game behind the Cleveland Guardians. After the selloff at 2025 trade deadline, getting off to a +.500 record is music to their fans’ ears. FanGraphs still projects the team at a tick under .500 for the year, but with the Tigers coming out of the gate a little weaker who knows what the AL Central could look like.
As Boston looks to turn a two-game winning streak into three, Garrett Crochet takes the ball. Coming off a win against the Brewers where he was brilliant for about six innings and then a little gassed as his pitch count topped 100, the lefty looks to pitch not as the stopper but the continuer. He’s opposed by Bailey Ober, a tall righty who missed much of 2025. He’s back this season and things have been…ok. Over three starts he’s totaled 13.2 innings with 8 hits, 7 strikeouts, and 4 walks. In the early going this season his strikeout percentage has dropped from a career average of 23.7% of batters to 11.9% and his 6.8% walk rate is the highest of his career with a 5.3% average rate across his time in the majors. With a fastball sitting in the high 80s vs the mid-90s is he crafty enough to get by? Will the velocity return?
Tuesday we get anther start from Sonny Gray, who is coming off back-to-back strong outings against the Padres and Brewers. After a lackluster start to open the season in Cincinnati, Gray excelled in Fenway Park. Now he’s taking the show back on the road, hopefully with those bugs worked out. Mick Abel is a 24-year-old righty who came to Minnesota from the Philles in exchange for Jhoan Duran. It’s his second season in the majors and he’s sitting on a career 6.19 ERA / 3.87 FIP). So far this year he’s walking (14.9%) almost the same percentage of batters he’s striking out (19.4%) which isn’t going to end well. Luckily for him last year he only walked 9.2%. and he’s only 52.1 innings into his major league career.
The series finale is an afternoon start. Connelly Early has had trouble getting deep into games. He’s thrown 96, 88, and 86 pitches and lasted 5.1, 4.0, and 4.1 innings before needing to be removed for a reliever. He’s looked good at times but also a little lost. The team clearly believes in him. He’s opposed by Simeon Woods Richardson. Another righty, he’s coming off a bad start after two good outings to begin the season. On the year he’s tossed 15.2 innings allowing 16 runs (8 earned), 8 hits, struck out 8, and walked 4. He give up about 34% ground balls so there’s a chance to force the defense to make plays.
Royce Lewis is on the IL, as his career remains frustrating in that regard.
Byron Buxton is off to a slow start: .182/.258/.273
Josh Bell has been a tremendous asset so far: .286/.390/.551 with 3 homers. This is well ahead of his career averages but he’s sure on a hot streak at the moment.
Probable Pitching Matchups
Monday, April 13: Garrett Crochet (3.12 ERA / 2.54 FIP) vs. Bailey Ober (5.27 ERA / 3.92 FIP)
Tuesday, April 14: Sonny Gray (2.76 ERA / 6.19 FIP) vs. Mick Abel (6.08 ERA / 3.87 FIP)
Wednesday, April 15: Connelly Early (2.63 ERA / 2.90 FIP) vs. Simeon Woods Richardson (5.35 ERA / 4.29 FIP)
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 09: Manager Warren Schaeffer #4 of the Colorado Rockies looks on before the game against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on April 09, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images) | Getty Images
While progress will be slow in the climb to change the trajectory of an organization that’s lost more than 100 games in three straight seasons, several indicators show this team is considerably better than the 2025 squad at this point last year. That could be good to keep in mind, considering the five remaining series in April will be against teams that finished above .500 last year. This includes a four-game matchup with the Dodgers that’s part of a seven-game homestand that includes three more games against the Padres.
Through 16 games, here are eight reasons to believe the Rockies are on the right track.
#1 — 3 More Wins
While three might not feel like a lot, it really is. Through 16 games last year, the Rockies were 3-13. Right now, the Rockies are 6-10. Riding a four-game losing streak, 6-10 doesn’t feel great. However, just think about last season. It took the Rockies until May 1, at which point they were 6-25, to earn six wins. In earning six wins, the 2025 Rockies had a .165 winning percentage. Through Sunday, the Rockies winning percentage is .375.
#2 — 6 vs. -46
In 2025, the Rockies were getting rocked by opposing hitters. Through 16 games, the Rockies had given up 89 runs and scored only 43 for a jaw-dropping run differential of -46. That’s hard to do so early in the season.
This season, the Rockies have a -6 run differential. That means more close games and more entertaining games. The Rockies have scored 65 runs, which is a vast improvement from last season, and given up 71.
#3 — 3.76 vs. 5.50
Some rough outings against the Padres might make it seem like the bullpen is worse than it really is. Not to make excuses, but the Rockies are down a starter after Jose Quintana hit the 15-day IL with a right hamstring injury. Plus, the San Diego series hit the bullpen hard with a 12-inning contest on Thursday and Kyle Freeland being scratched while warming up for his start on Sunday, resulting in a bullpen day.
Even with that amount of stress, the bullpen ERA is down from 5.50 at this point last season to 3.76 heading into Tuesday’s series opener in Houston. A huge part of that lower number is thanks to Antonio Senzatela, who has thrown nine scoreless innings over four appearances with 12 strikeouts for a 0.00 ERA. Jimmy Herget has also continued to shine, giving up only two runs in nine innings over eight appearances, which include two opener starts. In relief only, he’s posted a 1.29 ERA. Jaden Hill has also been impressive, recording a 1.42 ERA in 6.1 innings.
#4 — 2 vs. 5
The Rockies are more competitive because, in 2026, they are in more games until the end. They started the season losing three one-run games. They have played in five one-run games, going 1-4 in them. They have also been walked-off by three teams.
While it’s frustrating not to close out those wins, the Rockies are showing they can hang with teams better this season. Last year at this point, the Rockies had only had two one-run games and they went 1-1 in those contests. Most games weren’t close (see the run differential above).
#5 — 2 vs. 0
The Rockies defeated the Blue Jays 2-1 in Toronto and swept the Astros at home in their third and fourth series of the season. That’s two series wins in 2026 in April with 16 games left this month. Last season, the Rockies didn’t get their first series win until June 4 when they swept the Marlins at home. They didn’t get their second series win until June 18 when the Rockies swept the Nationals. That makes a difference in team morale.
#6 — 16 vs. 10
While the offense has felt stuck sometimes, and they are striking out about the same amount (169 in 2025 vs. 162 in 2026), the Rockies have hit more homers through 16 games this season. Last year, the Rockies hit 10 homers. This year, they have hit 16. Through Sunday, Mickey Moniak is tied for second in the National League with five homers. Sure, it’s a seven-way tie, but that group also includes Shohei Ohtani.
After Sunday’s games, the Rockies 16 homer mark is tied for fourth best in the NL.
#7 — 23rd vs. 29th
After 16 games in 2025, the Rockies ranked No. 29 in baseball with a 4.99 team ERA. While the team had four quality starts, often, the starters or the relievers weren’t able to help keep Colorado in games. This season, the Rockies team ERA is 4.27, which is ranked No. 23 through Sunday’s games.
While it’s not a massive climb up the MLB rankings ladder, it’s significant. Leading the way for Colorado is Tomoyuki Sugano, who has a 2.15 ERA through three starts, spanning 16.2 innings with 12 strikeouts. Freeland is right behind him with a 2.3o ERA in 15.2 innings over two starts with 13 strikeouts.
#8 — 212.5%
The Rockies base-stealing numbers are up 212.5% between this year and last year. In 2025 after 16 games, the Rockies had stolen eight bases. That ranked No. 26 in MLB. This year, the Rockies have stolen 17 bases, which is tied for fourth most in MLB. The Rockies also have been caught eight times, which isn’t great, but at least they are more aggressive.
Another bonus is that nine different Rockies have gotten in on the action. Jake McCarthy is leading the way with four stolen bases, while five more Rockies have two (Jordan Beck, Brenton Doyle, Tyler Freeman, Edouard Julien and Kyle Karros).
Conclusion
It’s early. The Rockies are less than 10% through the 2026 season, and it’s too early to draw conclusions about how the new front office, coaching staff and players are performing.
However, I do remember how things felt in April and May in 2025.
This is better.
Anything could happen moving forward, but after six losing seasons and not much hope in sight, I am choosing to believe this 2026 squad is better and will be more fun to watch this season.
We are once again joined by the one and only Brian Walton to talk with us about what he experienced during Cardinals spring training and who is showing positively for the Cardinals’ minor league affiliates early in the season.
We covered the impressive start AAA Memphis has gotten off to, Hunter Dobbins, Jimmy Crooks, Tanner Franklin, Liam Doyle, Jurrangelo Cintje, Tai Peete, and much, much more!
As you can see here, which has been posted on social media, we will be joined by some special guests throughout April! Each of these gentlemen covers different aspects of the game, and we here at Viva El Birdos are committed to trying to give fans of all walks of baseball consumption something that appeals to them, whether it be the minor leagues, which I know there is a strong appetite for, analytical thinkers and those who follow the game by the numbers and this website built its reputation off of, or inside info/those with direct access who bring you the news and perspective from the club. Hopefully, all of these elements will allow VEB to continue to be one of the best sources for fans to consume their Cardinals content!
The Mets versus the Dodgers is about as star-studded a matchup as the National League can offer these days. That being said, the first pitching duel of this series doesn’t necessarily reflect that, and it provides the reigning back-to-back champs yet another opportunity to showcase their early prowess against left-handed pitching—Justin Wrobleski will square off against David Peterson at Dodger Stadium. As of April 13th, the Dodgers are tied with the Washington Nationals for the best wRC+ against southpaws, currently sitting at 146.
While the results haven’t been great, Peterson has managed to overcome the 19 runs allowed (15 of them earned) in 30.1 innings against the Dodgers to feature a 2-0 record against them throughout his career. The potential for an even more damaging outing is on the table, as this attack has been unforgiving when going up against a left-hander. It’ll be the first southpaw starter the Dodgers face since they had a surprisingly difficult time against Foster Griffin more than a week ago, seeing nothing but righties against the Blue Jays and Rangers.
A surprising factor in this early success against lefties—one unlikely to last—is that Max Muncy is already one home run away from tying his last season’s total versus southpaws, hitting half of his four homers this season against same-handed pitching. It’s not just him, though. Cornerstones of this offense have already proven themselves against lefties in the likes of Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman, and you have Andy Pages leaving those postseason struggles behind to follow up on what was a very productive 2026 campaign.
Pitching-wise, Justin Wrobleski will look to follow up on a successful and very peculiar outing against the Blue Jays—not only due to the massive run support he received in making this a blowout early on, but also the four walks he conceded in five one-run innings.
Morgan Rielly does think about whether Monday's game against the Dallas Stars could be his final game inside Scotiabank Arena as a Toronto Maple Leaf, given the uncertainty around his future with the hockey club.
"I mean, it's crossed my mind before," he said on Monday morning, ahead of a game against the Dallas Stars. "All athletes have that. At some point, they think about that. And so, again, tonight's no different than that."
It hasn't been the easiest of seasons for Rielly, who turned 32 last month and will play his 950th game on Monday night.
The defenseman has 11 goals and 25 assists in 76 games this season, which is the second-most points among Toronto's defenders, behind only Oliver Ekman-Larsson. While some might believe that's a positive, it's Rielly's lowest point total since the 2020-21 season, when he had 35 points in 55 games.
His 0.47 points-per-game is also the lowest it's been since the 2016-17 season. In that year, Rielly scored just six goals and 27 points in 76 games for a 0.36 points-per-game.
After this season, Rielly will have four years left on his contract, which pays him $7.5 million annually. It's a large number for a defender who's struggled defensively as much as he has this season.
Rielly sits atop the team in goals against at five-on-five with 76, according to NaturalStatTrick.com. When he's on the ice, the Maple Leafs have also given up more scoring chances, high-danger chances, and high-danger goals at five-on-five.
Of course, part of Rielly's struggles could be because of how poorly the entire team has played this season. But maybe it's time for a fresh start for both sides?
Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube would likely disagree with that notion.
On Monday morning, when asked what he believes it means to be a Maple Leaf for Rielly, the head coach stated, "Everything."
"I mean, he's been here a long time, and he loves it here," Berube continued.
"I mean, I don't think he can think about being anywhere else, personally. After being drafted here and playing here this long and this many games. He's been a staple here for a long time. So it would be hard for him to be thinking about not being a Leaf."
Even with it being a difficult season, personally and as a team, Berube is likely right: Rielly probably can't see himself anywhere else.
"It's an outstanding place to play and a great place to live," Rielly added on Monday morning. "This organization means a lot to a lot of people, and so, to be a part of it is an honour."
Whether it is in fact his last home game as a Maple Leaf or not, there are plenty of memories to look back on with Rielly in blue and white. You think back to his NHL debut on Oct. 5, 2013, against the Ottawa Senators.
Since making his NHL debut, Rielly has scored 549 points and is just over 200 shy of Borje Salming's record for most points as a Maple Leafs defenseman.
Rielly (949 games played) is almost just as close to the all-time games played record with the Maple Leafs, currently held by George Armstrong, who suited up for 1,188 games with Toronto.
It would be nice to see him break those records. But at the same time, whoever is hired as the next head of hockey operations needs to decide whether it's a good idea to hold onto Rielly, or, if it's best for both sides to part ways.
For now, Rielly is soaking up every game he plays as a Maple Leaf — and as an NHL player.
"I think you try to [soak it up] every night," he said. "I don't think you should ever take one day or game in this league for granted."
INGLEWOOD, CA - APRIL 12: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the game against the LA Clippers on April 12, 2026 at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Golden State Warriors closed out their regular season with a 115-110 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday night. The result ultimately didn’t carry much weight in the standings for the Warriors, but the end of the regular season did bring clarity as Golden State now shifts their full attention to a rematch against the Clippers in the Play-In Tournament.
Steph Curry, who finished with 24 points in 29 minutes on Sunday, acknowledged the reality of the situation. For the fourth time in the Play-In era, the Warriors find themselves in a win-or-go-home situation to keep their season alive — this time as the 10th seed once again.
The Warriors finished 37-45 but still have playoff life because of the play-in. They’ve been a play-in participant four out of the six years.
Steph Curry: “We’ve been 10th twice?”
“Grateful for it now because you have one game and hopefully another to keep your season alive.” pic.twitter.com/8LXRlOMCsw
It’s not where the Warriors expected to be heading into the year, but it’s where they are after injuries derailed their season. And Curry made it clear the belief inside the locker room hasn’t wavered. With just a few days to regroup and build chemistry, he’s confident the Warriors can raise their level when it matters most.
Steph Curry says it will be “super easy” for him and the Warriors to shift into do-or-die mode Wednesday night against the Clippers in the play-in tournament pic.twitter.com/sgvmKkGIVu
When the teams meet on Wednesday, two matchups will heavily dictate the outcome. One of those matchups might have been on display in this game, the other not at all.
There was a glimpse of LA’s defense against Curry. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue opted to use a tag-team approach with his best perimeter defenders: Kris Dunn and Derrick Jones Jr.
Dunn, whose height mirrors Curry’s 6-foot-3, is a solid defender who relies on physicality and muscle. Jones Jr., a terrific athlete standing 6-foot-6, uses his 7-foot wingspan to try to smother Curry. Both get plenty of support from their teammates.
Draymond Green doesn’t hesitate when he hears the question. Looking back on the Golden State Warriors’ 2015-16 season a decade later, a simple thought pops into the now 36-year-old forward’s mind.
“It’s pretty easy,” Green told The Athletic. “We beat the s— outta everybody.”
Monday marks the 10th anniversary of the night Green and the Warriors dominated the Memphis Grizzlies in the regular-season finale to secure their 73rd win. That mark still stands, and many within the organization believe it always will.
Following a March 21 morning shootaround in Phoenix, multiple league sources told The Athletic that Rivers called a group of veteran players together for a meeting in Mortgage Matchup Center. Per multiple sources with knowledge of the situation, Rivers informed the veterans that he believed they had failed him this season and questioned the group’s commitment, conditioning, focus and leadership.
Rivers’ message incensed the group, and the players stood up for themselves, firing back at the head coach over his claims.
“That’s when I checked out on this season,” one of the veterans told The Athletic.
The Clippers controlled the game until the final buzzer, though the Warriors subs made it a close score of 115-110, even though the game didn’t feel at all up for grabs. Then again, the Warriors weren’t really trying to grab it, so who cares.
Curry led the Warriors with 24 points, while shooting 7-for-14 from the field and 4-for-9 on threes, with six rebounds and three assists. Bassey had 16 points off the bench on nearly-perfect 5-for-6 shooting, while going 6-for-8 on free throws. Porziņģis (12) and Podziemski (10) were the only other Warriors in double digits, as no one played much.
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Former Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers, left, and star Giannis Antetokounmpo embrace before a game against the Brooklyn Nets on April 10 in Milwaukee. (Jeffrey Phelps/Associated Press)
The NBA regular season ended Sunday and the first order of business for teams that fell short of making the playoffs was to evaluate their head coach. Hall of Famer Doc Rivers wasn't spared the scrutiny.
He agreed to depart from the Milwaukee Bucks after winning 16 fewer games this season than last. Rivers has one year remaining on the $40-million contract he signed in January 2024 and will be paid for the final season.
The Bucks were 32-50 this season largely because superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo played in only 36 games because of injuries. Antetokounmpo, who expressed frustration talking to reporters Sunday, might be next out the door.
If so, the Lakers undoubtedly would be interested. They are projected to have about $60 million in salary-cap space and three first-round draft picks they can use — 2026, 2031 and 2033 — to try to make a deal this offseason.
Despite his insistence that he was healthy fairly soon after he suffered a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise March 15, Antetokounmpo didn't play in the last 15 games of the season.
"To my understanding, I had to play three-on-three to be able to be available to play," he said. "I did that multiple times. I've never in my life denied participation of practice. Whoever came up with that is disrespectful toward what I’ve done for this team and the way I carry myself."
The decision was likely made to ensure the trade value of the two-time most valuable player wasn't diminished by another injury. Antetokounmpo, 31, is under contract for 2026-2027 and has a player option of $62.7 million for 2027-28.
The Lakers — and other trade partners — would be more than willing to give him an extension. The contracts of LeBron James ($52.6 million), Rui Hachimura ($18 million) and Maxi Kleber ($11 million) expire after this season, giving the Lakers the cash to toss in Antetokounmpo's direction.
The Bucks floundered without him and the coach paid the price. Rivers, 64, hadn't had a losing full season since 2006-2007, a span that included an NBA title with Boston in 2007-2008, seven seasons with the Clippers and three with the Philadelphia 76ers.
“I have truly loved my time in Milwaukee,” said Rivers, who played college basketball at Marquette. “Coming back to where I got my start, to a city that has always embraced me, has been a privilege. I am disappointed that things did not turn out the way any of us hoped, but I am deeply grateful for this experience, the relationships built, and unwavering support from our fans and the community.”
Rivers began coaching after a 13-year NBA playing career and has a 1,194-866 record (.580) with five teams across 27 seasons. His regular-season wins are the sixth most in NBA history and he will be enshrined into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame this year.
The Bucks discussed with him an advisory role in the organization, but Rivers is taking his time deciding what to do next. Asked how long he envisions coaching, Rivers mentioned his grandchildren.
“I won’t answer that, but I have grandkids that I want to see,” Rivers told reporters. “I’ll let you figure it out from there. I have seven grandkids now, and they’re all 8 years and under, and it kills me every time I miss grandparents day with each one of them in school. It’s probably time to go see them more, so I’ll let you figure out the rest.”
His seven consecutive winning seasons with the Clippers are part of the franchise's current streak of 15 consecutive seasons with a winning record, the longest active run in the NBA and fourth-longest in league history.
Other NBA coaches on the hot seat include Jamahl Mosley of the Orlando Magic and Brian Keefe of the Washington Wizards. Portland Trail Blazers interim coach Tiago Splitter also might be replaced.
Splitter took over for Chauncey Billups, who has pleaded not guilty to charges he profited from rigged poker games involving several Mafia figures and at least one other ex-NBA player.
The Texas Rangers travel to Sacramento to face the A’s in a battle between the two teams tied for first in the AL West.
Texas started its West Coast trip losing two of three to the Dodgers, while the A’s return home after winning five of six in New York.
The A’s are mowing people down on the mound, which is why my Rangers vs. A’s predictions and MLB picks have the Athletics to win outright.
Who will win Rangers vs A's today: A’s moneyline (+110)
The A’s pitching had been average at best in the early going, but they found a new level in New York.
Facing the Yankees and Mets, two teams that started their series with the Athletics over .500, A’s pitchers threw three shutouts in the last four games.
Opposing batters have hit .164 with a .453 OPS over that span. Luis Severino will try to keep the streak going.
The Texas Rangers gave up 16 runs in three days to the Dodgers. Their offense may be down a man, as Wyatt Langford hurt his quad on Friday and hasn’t played since.
COVERS INTEL: Both teams rank in the Top 10 in batter strikeouts this season, and each starter is averaging over 11.0 K/9 innings.
Rangers vs A's Over/Under pick: Under 8.5 (-118)
The A’s have needed that strong pitching, because they scored just six total runs in the three shutout wins. They had 11 in the fourth game and have been an all-or-nothing offense this season.
In 15 games, the A’s have scored 10 or more four times, two or less seven times.
Severino struck out seven in five innings in a 3-2 A’s win over the Yankees last time out. Rangers starter Nathan Eovaldi struggled in his first two starts but looked much better in beating the Mariners, striking out seven in six innings.
Shawn Krest's 2026 Transparency Record
ML/RL bets: 4-6 -2.48 units
Over/Under bets: 6-8 -2.06 units
Rangers vs A's odds
Moneyline: Rangers -117 | A's +110
Run line: Rangers -1.5 | A's +1.5
Over/Under: Over 8.5 | Under 8.5
Rangers vs A's trend
The Athletics have hit the Under in 15 of their last 24 games (+6.30 Units / 24% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Rangers vs. A's.
How to watch Rangers vs A's and game info
Location
Sutter Health Park, West Sacramento, CA
Date
Monday, April 13, 2026
First pitch
9:40 p.m. ET
TV
RSN, NBC Sports California
Rangers starting pitcher
Nathan Eovaldi (1-2, 7.98 ERA)
A's starting pitcher
Luis Severino (0-1, 5.40 ERA)
Rangers vs A's latest injuries
Rangers vs A's weather
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 07: Adley Rutschman #35 of the Baltimore Orioles is tagged out at home plate by catcher Gabriel Moreno #14 of the Arizona Diamondbacks during the third inning of the MLB game at Chase Field on April 07, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Orioles are league leaders.
Tonight the Diamondbacks will be starting the first game of a series that will wrap up their East Coast trip. After meeting the Mets in Flushing (I used to live on a 10 minute drive from Vlissingen, which is the Dutch village it was named after – just to provide you with some interesting useless information -) and the Phighting Phils in Philadelphia (that the Dutch king is visiting today – just to provide you with even more interesting useless information -), the Snakes will enter Baltimore (that has Dutch Rotterdam as its sister city – I had to look up this useless information -).
After achieving some good wins against our NL East foes, the Diamondbacks will be looking forward to do the same against a team from the AL East, and go at least 3 games over .500.
But who will they be playing?
The Orioles started their seaston with an opening series win over Minnesota, but then entered a tiny slump, losing a series against Texas before getting swept by the Pittsburgh Pirates. Last week they were able to work on their 3-6 record and are now at 8-7 after sweeping the Chicago White Sox and beating the San Francisco Giants, the latter result for which we are always grateful.
In the always competitive AL East, that has suddenly made them joined leader, where Yankees and Rays are also at 8-7, with the Blue Jays and Red Sox 2 wins behind. They will probably be happy with that, though they probably had expected a bit more from a couple of players.
Cold Polar Bear.
Entering the 2025 season after a 91–71 record the year before, the Orioles were one of the favourites in a competitive AL East. However, things didn’t click. Manager Brandon Hyde was ousted in May with a 15-28 record but it didn’t prevent an underperforming team with too many injuries from ending dead last with a 75–87 record. So, Baltimore said goodbye to those they no longer needed and who were on an expiring contract and tried to make some serious splashes on the free agency market.
They resigned starting pitcher Zach Eflin (1 year, $10MM), signed Chris Bassitt from the Blue Jays (1 year, $18.5MM), made a big jump adding Ryan Helsley to the bullpen (2 years, $28MM) but surprised everyone with the signing of Mets icon and slugger Polar Bear Pete Alonso (5 years, $155MM).
Early results on those signings are not terrific: Eflin pitched in just 1 game and completed 3.2 innings before requiring TJ surgery. He is done for the season. Bassitt has not completed the 4th inning in any of his 3 starts and has pitched to a 9.00 ERA. Ryan Helsley has achieved 4 saves, but has been a rollercoaster Fernando Rodney ride in each of his closing performances. Alonso had a .819 OPS in his first 6 games of the season, but achieved just 2 hits in the next 8 games, only to double that again in his latest appearance. A .190 batting average, .518 OPS and just 1 homerun is probably not what Oriole Park was expecting to see.
The bad news hasn’t stopped there. Recently star catcher Adley Rutschman (150 OPS+) went on the IL with an ankle injury, just like outfielder Tyler O’Neil (105 OPS+). Both will be unavailable for the series against the Diamondbacks. Talented outfielders Jordan Westburg and Heston Kjerstad don’t have a timetable yet for their return.
Good news is that star player Jackson Holliday (hamate surgery) and reliever Andrew Kittredge (shoulder) should be both close to return. It’d be the season debut for both.
The Orioles are, like their win-loss record suggests, a team that has difficulties to win but is also hard to beat. Their starting pitching, according to xFIP, is amongst the worst in the league, though just a tad lower than the Diamondbacks’, just like the relief pitching. Their offense is one of the better ones in the league, though it has the 3rd highest BABIP in the entire league. With the injury of Rutschman it took a hit and now relies on Gunnar Henderson, Leody Taveras and Taylor Ward, until the Polar Bear warms up.
In 2025 the Diamondbacks were victorious over the Orioles (2-1), in 2024 it was the other way around (1-2). All-time record is 18-12 advantage for Arizona.
Matchups.
Game #1 Mon 04/13 3:35 PM MST, Ryne Nelson (ARI) vs TBD.
After a bad outing against the Dodgers and an abysmal one against the Braves, Ryne stepped up against the Mets and limited them to just 1 run (5 hits) in 5.2 innings. That is good to see, because with Pfaadt still deciding whether he is major league starting material, his good outing against the Mets became just in time, before the activation of Kelly and the removal of one of the current starting pitchers.
Nelson faced the Orioles one time, in 2024. He had to swallow 10 hits and 3 runs in 4.2 innings, but was backed up by 4 Diamondback runs. Arizona would eventually lose that game in extra innings, after a blown save from Ginkel and Jarvis taking the loss in the 11th inning.
Game #2 Tue 04/14 3:35 PM MST, Merrill Kelly (ARI) vs Trevor Rogers (BAL).
Merrill Kelly makes his season debut after pitching a couple of bullpen sessions and a rehab start in Reno. Last season he got a win against Baltimore, 6 innings, giving up 3 runs.
Trevor Rogers faced the Diamondbacks three times as a starter, from 2021 to 2023, as a member of the Miami Marlins. After some so so seasons, he took a big step forward in 2025, pitching to a 1.81 ERA in 18 starts, enough for getting votes in the Cy Young race. He is pitching to similar results in 2026 so far and will thus be a tough nut to crack. Rogers added a sweeper to his arsenal and that 5th additional pitch, beside improving his command, has brought him success.
Game #3 Wed 04/15 9:35 AM MST, Eduardo Rodriguez (ARI) vs Kyle Bradish (BAL).
If E-Rod keeps to pitch like this, he will be one of the Cy Young candidates and we will be hoping for a yearly World Baseball Classic. As a former Red Sox and AL pitcher, E-Rod is familiar with the opponent, though probably less with the players. With a 2.73 lifetime ERA against the Orioles and a .737 winning percentage, this will obviously another cross in the win box for our Venezuelan buddy.
Bradish was originally drafted by the Angels and went to Baltimore in a Dylan Bundy trade. He made his major league debut in 2022 and became one of the top starters of the team in 2023, with a 2.83 ERA over 30 starts, ending 4th in the Cy Young voting. However, injuries, a TJ amongst them, have limited Bradish since then. Whenever healthy he has lived up to those 2023 numbers, though sporadically, with just 14 starts in the last two seasons. In 3 starts this season he has struggled with his command and is still looking for his groove. Hopefully he doesn’t find it against Arizona.
LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 12: Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) dribbles the ball during the Utah Jazz vs Los Angeles Lakers game on April 12, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
In their final regular season game, the Lakers routed a tanking Utah Jazz team for their 53rd win, the most for the franchise since 2010-11. All the machinations of surviving a grueling 82 games are over and the brain trust now shifts its focus towards the playoffs.
The unfortunate injuries to Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves not only remove a star backcourt but leave behind a gaping playmaking void. With almost 14 assists combined per game, production is impossible to replace with one player.
But by racking up ten assists of his own on Sunday, Marcus Smart showed why he will be integral in helping the team fill in as best as they can.
Smart returned from injury against the Suns on Friday after missing nine straight games with a right ankle contusion. While playing under a minute restriction, he collected 17 assists in his two games back, finding teammates in a variety of ways. He serves not only as a desperately needed ball handler but also as someone who understands the next read against a compromised defense while continuing the “blender” as head coach J.J. Redick calls it.
It started early in the first quarter on Sunday as he found Deandre Ayton in the clip below for the finish. Watch as he comes to set a screen for LeBron James.
They’ve found good chemistry all year with this “empty side” or “88” in their playbook screen roll throughout the season. It commonly flows into a LeBron post-up against a switch, allowing Smart to screen and pop to the top of the key.
LeBron in the post compromises the defense and Smart found the advantage with a touch pass to Ayton at the basket.
On the play below, he and LeBron reverse roles, with Smart now running the screen action at the top of the key. Smart notices the defender cheating and rejects the screen. A drive and kick to sharp shooter Rui Hachimura, while Maxi Kleber sets a pin screen, pushes the lead to 15 before the half.
“That’s a big reason we wanted to bring Smart here, not just for his defense,” Redick said postgame. “Even post-Boston, the last couple seasons, he’s graded out well as a secondary playmaker. He’s been in that position before. He knows how to get other guys involved. Tonight, he had a great feel for getting [Ayton] involved.”
Smart finished the regular season fourth on the Lakers in assists, behind the three main ball handlers in LeBron, Luka, and Reaves. In addition, he leads the team in plus-minus for the year, epitomizing his all-around impact.
LA enters a playoff series as clear underdogs without their two leading scorers for the season. A Denver Nuggets win over the San Antonio Spurs locked in the Houston Rockets as the 4-5 playoff matchup, with the purple and gold having home court.
Houston has aggressive point-of-attack defenders such as Amen Thompson and Tari Eason to hound the Lakers’ ball handlers. A lot of attention will be thrown at LeBron, opening the door for players like Smart to step in. His experience, which includes 108 playoff games, as a veteran leader and playmaker will be needed if the team hopes to advance at all.
“It’s important with the loss of AR and Luka, it’s not just all on Luke (Kennard) and LeBron to be playmakers,” Redick said. “Smart can fill in with that too.”
COVERS INTEL: Both teams rank in the Top 10 in batter strikeouts this season, and each starter is averaging over 11.0 K/9 innings.
