Missouri and Learfield have partnered together for a “historic” sponsorship, the school announced on Friday. With it bring a jersey patch for the Tigers, coming to an agreement with Ambetter Health. This is just the latest college football program to add a patch ahead of the 2026 season.
“In less than three years, we have more than doubled our sponsorship revenue with over 130% growth, establishing significant NIL resources to help our teams secure the talent to compete for championships,” Mizzou athletic director Laird Veatch said in a statement. “That investment reflects the momentum and strength of the Mizzou brand and demonstrates the value we’re creating for our partners. We have asked the major corporate brands in our great state to seize this opportunity to partner with us to continue elevating our university brand and state economy – and many of those brands are responding in record fashion. We are incredibly grateful to these partners, and to our Learfield colleagues at Mizzou Sports Properties, and proud of the momentum we’re building together.
“As we continue to build these powerful partnerships across Missouri, we’re grateful for the incredible alignment we have with state leadership, particularly Gov. Kehoe and Sen. Schmitt, who have clearly demonstrated their support and recognition of the economic impact and brand development power of Mizzou Athletics for the State of Missouri.”
Football is not the only program to work alongside Ambetter Health. Missouri says Olympic sports will also have a patch on their jerseys moving forward. This includes men’s and women’s basketball, along with the baseball program.
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 26: Kenyon Sadiq of the Oregon Ducks poses for a portrait during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 26, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Logan Bowles/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Remember the days when rookie tight ends took a year or two to get up to speed with the offense and contribute in fantasy football? Those days are over. Last season three rookie tight ends cracked the the fantasy tight end top 12. If the player is good and the situation is right, coaches are going to get them on the field.
This year the rookie tight end class isn’t as deep as previous years, but there is talent there. And if things break the right way, we could again see a rookie tight end have fantasy value.
Kenyon Sadiq, Jets
Sadiq went in the first round to the Jets and is easily the best tight end prospect in the draft. Unfortunately, Sadiq had to deal with a hernia which slowed down his progress. He will be available Week 1, but he’ll likely be eased back in. But this is dynasty, and Sadiq is the clear first tight end off the board in rookie drafts.
Eli Stowers, Eagles
Stowers went in the second round of the draft and is the heir apparent to Dallas Goedert in Philly. But Stowers has true receiving chops and is quicker and more versatile as a route runner than Goedert. It will be hard to keep him off the field. Sadiq and Stowers are in their own tier for rookie tight ends.
Eli Raridon, Patriots
Raridon has gotten praise in camp this year and he appears to be next in line for the starting job after Hunter Henry. Raridon can block, but his hands and ability out of the slot are what we are banking on in fantasy. The rookie should get on the field in 2TE formations and be a possible fantasy asset this season if Henry misses any time.
Marlin Klein, Texans
The Texans have Dalton Schultz, but Klein has the upside to develop into a starting tight end. It won’t be this year most-likely, but his elite athleticism and Day 2 draft capital give him a real shot to for a starting job after Shultz is gone.
Captain Lawrence Shankland insists the Rangers players must take responsibility for the "sickening" and "embarrassing" European exit - but denied the club are in crisis.
Rangers are out of Europe before the league phase after defeat in the Europa League qualifiers to Jagiellonia Bialystok was followed by a shootout loss to Jablonec in the Conference League play-offs.
Since leaving Hearts to take charge at Ibrox in June, Derek McInnes has won just two of his first seven games in all competitions and his side already trail Premiership leaders Celtic by five points.
Speaking after Thursday's night's defeat in the Czech Republic, Shankland said: "There's not been too many times in my career where I've had to apologise to our travelling support, but tonight it's certainly one for the team to give them that apology.
"It's obviously been a difficult start to the season and ultimately going out of Europe, it doesn't get much lower than this.
"It's sickening, to be honest, and we need to take responsibility for that as players.
"Obviously we're trying to learn as we go. When results aren't coming, sometimes you can get away with it, and you get results along the way, but that's not happened for us.
"We're getting punished on all fronts, so it is difficult, but we need to keep working hard at it.
"I wouldn't say crisis, but it is obviously a concern. We know that as a team, and for this club to not be in European football, it's an embarrassing moment for us as a team and in that changing room.
"You can't hide behind it, there's nothing to hide behind. The proof is there, it's just not good enough."
Shankland started on the bench in both games against Jablonec and the striker's dream move to the club he supports has not gone as planned.
He admits the European exit is one of the lowest points of his career, while there is no escape from the scrutiny as a Rangers player.
"Everybody's trying to do well, but right now it's not happening, myself included," he added.
"It's just not been at the level required for the start of the season and we're trying to find that form individually and collectively.
"It's difficult, you're judged on everything you do and of course I would have loved to have come here and had a better start, but it's not been the case so far.
"I don't lose belief in what we're doing. Right now it's a horrific feeling, it's a bad moment, but we're going to need to move on at some point. We've got a league campaign to go into."
PITTSBURGH, PA - APRIL 23: Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate poses for a studio portrait during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium on April 23, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The 2026 wide receiver draft class wasn’t filled with transcendent players, but that’s not going to stop us from grabbing some high upside rookies this year. In dynasty, I want my rookie running backs to get on the field quickly and show that they can be fantasy relevant sooner than later. With receivers, I’m willing to take a longer look but I still don’t want them to be buried on the depth chart going into their rookie season.
I like this group of receivers. It’s been fun watching them throughout training camp and preseason. And during that time, we’ve seen a few shine and raise their profile. Below, I’ll go through some of the receivers making a move toward playing time this season and hopefully secure a spot on your fake teams for years to come.
Ja’Kobi Lane, Ravens
The Ravens need help at receiver behind Zay Flowers, which pushed them to draft Lane in the third round and Elijah Sarrat in the fourth. So far, Lane has showed well in camp. He gets compared to Michael Thomas, with his sure hands and big frame. Rashod Bateman is the current WR2, but off field issues and just an inability to consistently put up numbers has that No. 2 job up for grabs.
Cyrus Allen, Chiefs
Kansas City needs help at wide receiver. Rashee Rice is good, but he’s not a strong WR1. Add in his off-field issues and injury concerns, and there is room for another receiver to rise in the depth chart. Allen could be that guy or an approximation of that guy. He’s played well in preseason and has gotten plenty of praise from beat writers. I’m willing to take him ahead of his ADP due to his opportunity and offensive environment in KC.
Chris Bell/Caleb Douglas, Dolphins
The Dolphins are in full tank mode, but they’ll still play football games and the players want to win. They lack any veteran wide receivers worth a darn, so their rookies, Bell and Douglas have plenty of room to win playing time. Douglas has been consistent this summer, already winning a starting job come Week 1. Bell is coming off a knee injury, but has finally returned to practice and shed his no-contact jersey. Both receivers could win starting jobs with Jalen Tolbert and Malik Washington as their main competition.
Antonio Williams, Commanders
The Commanders offensive line is in shambles at the moment. The loss of Laremy Tunsil couldn’t have been bigger. Of course, one way to combat the pass rush are quick hitters and the rookie Williams specializes in just that. His ability after the catch should give him chances early on to be useful to the offense.
Germie Bernard, Steelers
Bernard hasn’t done enough this preseason to give us much hope he’ll be a useful fantasy player quickly, but I like his ability and think he can succeed in this offense. Aaron Rodgers doesn’t have the hutzpah to go deep like he used too, which means he needs his receivers to catch passes close to mid-range and then make something happen.
RENTON, WASHINGTON - JUNE 11: Jadarian Price #8 of the Seattle Seahawks looks on during practice at Virginia Mason Athletic Center on June 11, 2026 in Renton, Washington. (Photo by Jack Compton/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The 2025 draft was not brimming at the seams with offensive talent that will quickly transition into big time fantasy football, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t quality running backs to be had from this group. Unfortunately, none of the top backs landed somewhere they’ll quickly be asked to be a bell-cow back. Last year Ashton Jeanie landed with the Raiders to be the no-doubt starter his rookie year, but that didn’t work out quite as well as many, including myself, hoped.
This re-draft year we won’t want to draft a rookie running back in the first round, and with Jeremiah Love’s high-ankle sprain, we’ll need to be a little wary how early we get him. Yes, these are dynasty rankings, but what happens in their rookie years is extremely important in projecting their career. We want that least be able to imagine a pathway to a starting job sooner than later. Running backs don’t have long careers and we want them to get their fantasy stats early and often.
Jeremiyah Love, Cardinals
Love is the no-doubt No. 1 rookie pick in dynasty and the first rookie to go off the board in re-draft. His ability coming out of college is on par with the top backs around the league and if healthy, should have a productive career. He’s very much ahead of the pack as far as draft capital and skill. I’m fine with trading rookie picks, as unproven is still unproven, but if you can’t get a good deal, Love looks like the real deal.
Jonah Coleman, Broncos
The Broncos backfield looks crowded, but JK Dobbins is injury prone and closing in on the end of his career, while RJ Harvey isn’t as effective between the tackles as Coleman. If Dobbins were to go down, Coleman would most likely be the lead back and he has three-down ability. I like his upside and he could get there quicker than you’d think.
Mike Washington, Raiders
Washington has all the attributes to be a starter in this league. He fell in the draft, but his physical make up is right up there with the best in the business and he’s shown well in preseason. If Ashton Jeanty can’t play in Week 1 due to his ankle, Washington would be the next man up and I’d be more than happy to start him in fantasy right from the start.
Emmett Johnson, Chiefs
Johnson lasted until the fourth round, but he’s quickly become the RB2 behind Kennth Walker in Kansas City. That’s a situation I like, as Walker has some trouble staying on the field. This is a situation where I’d be super happy to have both backs on my team.
Kaelon Black, 49ers
The 49ers make some odd picks at times, but they also sometimes work out. Kyle Shanahan is a master at scheming his offense, and rookie backs, if called upon, can take advantage of that. Black hasn’t secured the RB2 job behind Christian McCaffrey, but he’s shown the coaching staff enough to be right in the thick of it.
Feb 3, 2026; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur with wife Lauren LaFleur and their children, parents Denny and Kristi LaFleur and brother Matt LaFleur and wife BreAnne LaFleur and son pose for photos at the introductory press conference at the Cardinals training facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
You may have heard that there’s a family reunion happening in Green Bay this week. Have you heard about this? Apparently Matt LaFleur and his younger brother Mike are both NFL head coaches, and their teams are playing each other for the first time.
I’m sure this is news to everyone reading this.
The LaFleur family storyline is fun, but both of these organizations need to focus on finalizing their rosters after Friday night’s game. For Packers fans, that should be the biggest priority here — identifying what the team’s last roster moves will be and getting a bit more clarity on how the lower levels of the depth chart stack up.
Of course, the family angle plays much better for big media sources, so that will surely be a main area of focus during the game broadcast and preview coverage leading up to the preseason finale. So, are you ready for a bunch more fawning coverage about the LaFleur family? We sure hope so, because here it is (along with some other newsy bits).
The league is making it clear that you can’t just go back and forth between college and pro football whenever you want. That’s probably for the best, but the recent legal rulings have the sport in a very strange place.
Head to NBC and Peacock for an exciting MLB tripleheader this Sunday. First, at 12:00 PM ET, the Miami Marlins face the Washington Nationals in the MLB Sunday Leadoff game. Then, at 3:00 PM, the Houston Astros take on the New York Mets at Citi Field. Later, at 7:00 PM, Sunday Night Baseball heads to Wrigley Field as the Cincinnati Reds go head-to-head with the Chicago Cubs.See below for additional information on how to watch each game.
Play-by-play voice Matt Vasgersian, 2005 World Series champion Geoff Blum, former Mets infielder Todd Zeile, and reporter Ashley ShahAhmadi ,will call Sunday's Astros vs Mets game.
Hall of Famer CC Sabathia will provide “Inside the Pitch” commentary, giving viewers insight into the pitcher’s throw-by-throw approach against a hitter.
MLB Sunday Leadoff is a weekly Major League Baseball showcase featuring live Sunday daytime games. It highlights marquee matchups throughout the regular season and streams primarily on Peacock, with some games also airing across NBC Sports and NBC.
MLB Sunday Night Baseball is a weekly primetime Major League Baseball showcase, featuring marquee matchups each Sunday night during the regular season. The games air on NBC and Peacock and anchor NBC Sports’ Sunday night programming lineup.
NBC Sports will also stream one out-of-market game each day of the 2026 MLB season nationally on Peacock. Telemundo Deportes will present all NBCUniversal-produced MLB games in Spanish, with Universo televising all games broadcast on NBC.
How to sign up for Peacock:
Sign up here to watch all of our LIVE sports, sports shows, documentaries, classic matches, and more. You’ll also get tons of hit movies and TV shows, Originals, news, 24/7 channels, and current NBC and Bravo hits for whatever suits your mood.
Why are some MLB games unavailable to stream on Peacock?
Due to territorial blackout restrictions, select regular season, special event, and Postseason games may be unavailable on Peacock. Television territory blackout restrictions apply regardless of whether a Club is home or away and regardless of whether a game is televised in that Club's home television territory. For more information, visit Peacock’s Help Center.
Bills wide receiver Skyler Bell turns up the field after a catch across them middle during the opening day of Buffalo Bills training camp at St. John Fisher University Wednesday, July 29, 2026 in Pittsford. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co
Skyler Bell and Joe Fagnano are turning heads for the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens, respectively. The two most recent NFL Combine invitees from UConn are having a great preseason so far.
A groin injury delayed Bell’s debut until the final week of the preseason. But his performance in that game has Bills fans thinking about another similarly sized receiver who was a huge playmaker for them a few years ago, Stefon Diggs.
On Thursday night against the Steelers, the fourth-round pick caught seven passes for 49 yards and took a jet sweep 28 yards to the house. It was a very familiar experience for UConn fans, but still a tremendous joy to see in an NFL uniform.
“Once the ball got in his hands, you felt the speed and he made the most of it,” Bills head coach Joe Brady said, according to the team site.
Bell is all-but a lock to make the final 53-man roster and should have a chance to break out on a team with a great quarterback in Josh Allen that’s looking for a top target.
Fagnano is his team’s leading preseason passer, with starter Lamar Jackson sitting the entire way and backup Tyler Huntley getting light action. He has looked sharp since his debut against the Eagles two weeks ago and has been over 75 percent completion with a touchdown in each of his two outings.
Fagnano will have his final shot to lock up a roster spot or practice squad QB3 role tonight at 6 p.m. against Washington.
“Joe came in, second week in a row, and managed the offense really well,” Ravens head coach Jesse Minter said, according to Sports Illustrated’s Jason La Confora. “He got us down there a few times, and he made some key plays throwing the ball. Guys made some nice catches for him. I just like the way we played in the second half.”
La Confora heaped praise on the undrafted rookie, saying the third QB job is likely his.
“[Fagnano] had stellar film from thrashing the Eagles a week ago and coming out of nowhere to do so. Vikings aggressive defensive mastermind Brian Flores treats the preseason closer to the real thing than most who call plays on defense, and Fagnano entered this road game at a time when Baltimore’s offense was lifeless and suspect with No. 2 quarterback [Tyler] Huntley at the helm.”
MIAMI GARDENS, FL - AUGUST 22: Miami Dolphins linebacker Cameron Goode (53) leaves the field following the preseason NFL game between the New York Giants and the Miami Dolphins on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, FL (Photo by Peter Joneleit/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The Miami Dolphins closed out their 2026 training camp this week and host the Atlanta Falcons later tonight in the final preseason game of the year. We are closing in on the roster cut deadline, with teams required to drop from the 90-man preseason limit to the in-season 53-man roster size by 6 p.m. Eastern on Sunday, August 30.
Before last week’s loss to the New York Giants, I posted my first projection for the Dolphins’ 2026 53-man roster. A week later, it is time to update. I will be back on Sunday with my final projection with any changes after tonight’s game.
Miami Dolphins offense (24)
Quarterback (2)
Malik Willis Quinn Ewers
Cut: Cam Miller, Mark Gronowski
Changes: None.
This seems pretty straightforward now. Unless Ewers reaggravates his injury or Miller absolutely balls out tonight, there should not be a change to the quarterback plan.
Running backs (4)
De’Von Achane Jaylen Wright Ollie Gordon II Jarquez Hunter
Cut: Coleman Bennett, Donovan Edwards, Carlos Washington, Jr.
Changes: Add Hunter
Miami traded for Hunter on Thursday, a day after signing Bennett. They are clearly looking for additional depth at running back. Hunter could prove to simply be a body for Friday’s game, but the trade and the signing could signal concern that Gordon’s rib injury might slow him for a little while. Adding Hunter gives the team some flexibility at the position.
Fullbacks (0)
Cut: DJ Herman
Changes: Cut Herman
I think Herman has a pathway to the roster, but the Dolphins listing Sims as their starting fullback, even though he is a tight end, is a concern. The Dolphins signed free-agent linebacker Stephen Dix, Jr. and assigned him the same number (34) as Herman; that cannot be a good sign. Herman could be a practice squad option.
Tight ends (3)
Greg Dulcich Will Kacmarek Ben Sims
Cut: Ethan Conner, Seydou Traore, Jeremiah Franklin
Changes: Cole Turner from cut to injured reserve; Cut Ethan Conner after signing this week
No major changes here. Sims makes the roster as the primary fullback option if the Dolphins want to use him there. There is an assumption that Sims will be healthy and ready for the start of the year – otherwise, I will have to find a way to add Herman back to the roster. Kacmarek has had a good training camp and preseason, showing his ability to be a strong option as a sixth offensive lineman. Dulcich starts. Traore is added to the practice squad with the exemption for being an International Player Pathway member.
Offensive lineman (9)
Tackles Patrick Paul Austin Jackson Caedan Wallace
Guards Kadyn Proctor Jonah Savaiinaea DJ Campbell Josh Priebe
Centers Aaron Brewer Andrew Meyer
Cut: Gottlieb Ayedze, Jim Bonifas, Charlie Heck , Kevin Cline, Marques Cox, James Ester
Changes: Cut Charlie Heck; Jim Bonifas removed after Dolphins cut him this week
Heck gets cut here because I need the roster space – mostly because I had an extra player on the roster last week. My math was all over the place and I should have triple-checked my count. Heck is on the roster bubble, however, and could make it depending on what the Dolphins decide for the center position. Bonifas was listed as a cut last week, then the Dolphins moved on from him. Meyer’s position is not guaranteed at center, with Priebe possibly filling in as a backup at both guard and center – though I would not say Priebe’s roster spot is locked in, especially once Miami starts making waiver claims after other teams cut linemen.
Wide receivers (6)
Malik Washington Caleb Douglas Chris Bell Kevin Coleman, Jr. Jalen Tolbert Jalen Reagor
Cut: AJ Henning, Donaven McCulley, Terrace Marshall, Jr., Ryan Miller, Theo Wease, Jr.
Changes: Tutu Atwell removed after trade to Los Angeles Rams; Cut Ryan Miller after being a waiver claim by the Dolphins this week; Tahj Washington removed after being waived
No changes for the six players projected to make the roster. The locks are Washington and the three rookies (Douglas, Bell, Coleman). Tolbert is close to a lock, but the Dolphins could consider swapping him out in a waiver claim after the cuts. Reagor is a bubble player who hangs on for special teams purposes; Henning has played well enough to push ahead of Reagor, especially with a strong performance tonight.
Chop Robinson Josh Uche Robert Beal, Jr. Max Llewellyn Clelin Ferrell Cameron Goode
Cut: Seth Coleman-Lyles, Rodney McGraw, David Ojabo
Changes: Cut David Ojabo; Add Cameron Goode; Add Clelin Ferrell
Last week, I had Ojabo ahead of Ferrell, but I think Ojabo’s stock has continued to fall and now he is on the wrong side of the bubble. Of course, this is assuming Ferrell and Goode are both healthy enough to make it to the roster – or that they will be on the roster then placed on injured reserve once waiver claims begin. Goode makes the roster to provide an additional edge rusher with the injury to linebacker Trey Moore.
Defensive tackle (5)
Zach Sieler Kenneth Grant Jordan Phillips Zeek Biggers Matthew Butler
Cut: Keith Cooper, Jr., Alex Huntley, Fatorma Mulbah, Cam Rice
Changes: Cut Mulbah; Add Butler
The bubble watch last week had Mulbah on the roster and Butler being cut. They flip this week. Mulbah had a strong opening preseason game, but Butler has probably been more consistent all summer. Plus, Mulbah should be able to be stashed on the practice squad.
Linebackers (6)
Jordyn Brooks Jacob Rodriguez Tyrel Dodson Kyle Louis Ronnie Harrison, Jr. Willie Gay, Jr.
Cut: Stephen Dix, Jr., , Cam Riley, Jackson Woodard
IR: Trey Moore
Changes: Add Gay; Trey Moore off roster to IR
Last week, I wrote, “Harrison and Gay are in a position battle to claim the final spot among the linebackers.” That changes this week because of Moore’s injury; he likely will start the season on IR, opening the roster spot Gay needs. Woodard needs to stay with the team, probably on the practice squad, unless the Dolphins are concerned he would be claimed off waivers – which could push Gay back off the roster. Miami cracked the seal on trades on Thursday, sending wide receiver Tutu Atwell to the Los Angeles Rams; Dodson and Gay could both be trade candidates as Miami looks to churn the roster.
Cornerbacks (5)
Chris Johnson JuJu Brents Jason Marshall, Jr. Ethan Bonner A.J. Green III
Physically Unable to Perform list: Darrell Baker, Jr., Storm Duck
Cuts: Alex Austin, Miles Battle, Ahmari Harvey, Jai’Onte McMillan, Marco Wilson
Changes: Cut McMillan after waiver claim from Colts; Cut Wilson from roster
Johnson, Brents, and Marshall are locked onto the roster. Bonner probably is safe as well. Green slides on as the final depth option. Wilson falls off the roster because of spot math: linebacker Trey Moore is injured which makes me think the team will keep an extra defensive end (Cameron Goode) which former me to make a cut here. If you told me any of the cuts were to make the roster over Green, I would not argue with you.
Safeties (4)
Dante Trader, Jr. Zayne Anderson Michael Taaffe Major Burns
Cuts: Lonnie Johnson, Jr., Louis Moore
I am sticking with my projection last week, but I am not locked into Burns making the roster. If either Johnson or Moore have a stellar game tonight or Burns slips, there could be a change to the prediction come Sunday.
Columbus Clippers Travis Bazzana (12) throws the ball to first base during home opener at Huntington Park on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio. | Samantha Madar/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Alfonsin Rosario had one of his better games at Triple-A, going 3-for-4 with two doubles and a stolen base. The only other multi-hit game belonged to Cooper Ingle, who went 2-for-5.
Kyle Manzardo doubled and walked while Dayan Frias tripled and stole a base and Blake Perkins also doubled and walked. Kody Huff went 1-for-3 with two walks.
Starting pitcher Ben Lively allowed four runs on six hits with four walks and two strikeouts in 4.2 innings.
Jack Jasiak allowed another two runs in 2.0 innings and Daniel Espino had a clean outing with a scoreless inning and two strikeouts (please call him back up for September).
Nolan Schubart is still going strong. The three true outcome slugger went 2-for-4 with two more home runs and two strikeouts. He now has 10 home runs at Double-A and 30 overall on the season with a 1.018 OPS at Akron.
Alex Mooney also had a multi-hit game, going 2-for-4 with a home run and a stolen base while Jaison Chourio doubled, walked and stole a base and Luke Hill doubled and stole a base. Tyresse Turner also went 1-for-3 with a walk and a steal and Logun Clark went 1-fo-3 with a hit by pitch.
Starting pitcher Braylon Doughty had a rough outing, allowing seven runs (six earned) on five hits in 3.2 innings while striking out three and walking three.
Michael Kennedy was excellent in long relief, tossing 2.1 scoreless frames with a pair of strikeouts and Adam Tulloch finished off the game with another 2.0 scoreless innings.
Lake County’s offense has continued to bail out its pitching. A couple days after having to score 19 runs to scrape out a win, the Captains had to score 11 to earn the victory Thursday.
Leading the charge was Anthony Martinez, who had a monster game by going 4-for-5 with a home run and four runs batted in.
Tommy Hawke also had a spectacular game, going 2-for-3 with two doubles, two walks and two stolen bases.
Juneiker Caceres went 2-for-4 with a walk and Welbyn Francisca went 2-for-4 with two doubles and a walk. Jose Pirela homered.
Starting pitcher Joey Oakie made his High-A debut, allowing three runs on two hits with a walk and two strikeouts in 2.0 innings.
Luis Flores followed with 2.0 scoreless innings, but then Logan McGuire was blasted for six runs on two hits and three walks with a hit by pitch in his 2.0 innings. Both hits McGuire allowed were home runs.
Cam Schuelke earned the save with a scoreless ninth inning.
The top of Hill City’s lineup was spectacular on Thursday.
Guardians 2026 fifth round pick Lucas Moore went 3-for-4 from the leadoff position with three doubles and a walk.
Catching prospect Reiner Herrera continues to impress. He went 3-for-4 with his seventh home run at Single-A and after starting the season in the Arizona Complex League. Herrera also stole a base. He has 18 home runs in just 68 games this season.
Guardians 2026 15th round pick Alejandro Garza also had a good game, going 2-for-4 with a triple and a walk while Pedro Dalmagro homered.
Starting pitcher Miguel Flores had his best outing of the season, tossing 6.0 scoreless innings while allowing just one hit. He walked two and struck out four.
The bullpen barely preserved the victory, however. Guardians 10th round pick Ryan Bilka gave up two runs after walking three in 1.1 innings and Aaron Savary was blasted for four runs on five hits in the final 1.2 innings to barely hold on for the win.
Jul 20, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies first base Bryce Harper (3) and Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout (27) during the sixth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
The Phillies will start a three-game series out in Anaheim tonight against the Angels. Of course, whenever these two teams play each other, the topic of Millville’s own Mike Trout is naturally discussed at length. Trout has obviously never played for the Phillies, but he’s been someone that fans have clamored for practically his entire career, as the three-time MVP not only grew up in the area but is still a very vocal (and visible) Philadelphia Eagles fan.
It’s likely that fans’ dreams will never come true though, as Trout is under contract until 2031, putting him with the Angels through his age 38 season. His name always comes up with unofficial trade discussions with the Phillies, but Trout has never really expressed much desire to leave Anaheim, and Angels ownership has never expressed a desire to move him either.
Trout is the most notable player from the Philadelphia area in recent memory, but he’s not the only one currently active in MLB. The Tigers’ star rookie Kevin McGonigle is also a local product, hailing from Media, Pennsylvania and having played high school ball at Monsignor Bonner and Archbishop Prendergast High School in Drexel Hill. He was even in the stands at Citizens Bank Park as a fan when the Phillies played the Astros in the 2022 World Series. Flash forward to 2026, and McGonigle was one of the few non-Phillies who received cheers instead of boos at Citizens Bank Park during the All-Star Game introductions.
Nick Kurtz of the Athletics is also a young star that grew up around Philadelphia. He and his family are from Lancaster, PA and owned season tickets to the Phillies in section 116 at Citizens Bank Park. When the A’s came to Philadelphia in May, Kurtz remarked that getting to play in the stadium he used to go to with his family growing up was almost better than anything he’s done on the field in his young playing career.
None of those aforementioned three players have ever actually played for the Phillies though, but Tyler Phillips can say he has. The South Jersey native had a nice run of starts for the Phillies in 2024 including a complete game shutout before finding his way to the Marlins last season where he has found a home as a swingman in the bullpen. He may no longer have fond memories of playing in Philadelphia though, as he owns a 5.23 ERA in nine appearances against his former team.
These are just a few of the more notable MLB players that grew up around Philadelphia and were raised Phillies fans. There have been plenty more throughout history that were from here but may have never gotten to play for their hometown team. So, who is your favorite locally born baseball player?
ATLANTA, GA - AUGUST 27: Walt Weiss #22 and Chris Sale #51 of the Atlanta Braves celebrate after the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Truist Park on August 27, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Matthew Grimes Jr./Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Was it last night? Him receiving his sword? Maybe some specific start from earlier this year… or 2024? Maybe, in retrospect, it’s just learning that he was acquired for Vaughn Grissom, with the Red Sox paying him to pitch in Atlanta that year.
Floor is yours, I’m gonna go back to watching last night’s performance.
The New Orleans Saints are 0-2 in the preseason so far and didn’t look pretty in a 34-0 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. With New Orleans entering their final preseason match, it feels vital to go into the regular season on a high note.
Head coach Kellen Moore has already announced very few starters will see playtime against the Dallas Cowboys. Despite the reserves seeing the bulk of the playing time, there’s still plenty of matchups to pay attention to on Friday night.
Saints secondary vs. QB Joe Milton III
Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III has been lighting it up in the preseason. Through two games, Milton has thrown for 286 yards and 3 touchdowns with just seven incompletions. For short, the Saints defense that just allowed 254 passing yards is in for a challenge.
Milton’s talent is exceptional, and he may be one of the league’s best raw talents. While he hasn’t been able to put it all together as a starter in the league, his name often comes up as a trade target for teams looking for a young passer.
The Saints secondary had a strong showing against the Jacksonville Jaguars in their first preseason outing, despite the loss, but followed it up quickly with a poor performance against the Rams. With questions entering the season centered around the secondary, they’ll need a strong performance on Friday to increase confidence in the depth.
Saints pass rush vs. Cowboys pass protection
Part of Milton’s success has been the Dallas pass protection. Through two games, the Cowboys have only allowed one sack, with Milton himself not suffering a sack.
In preseason week one, the Saints pass rush logged four sacks, with Michael Heldman recording two. But like every other facet of the game, the Saints’ pass rush was terrible against the Rams, failing to record a quarterback hit.
If New Orleans wants to slow down the powerful Cowboys offense, it will come with slowing down the Dallas quarterbacks. If the Saints can replicate their success from their first outing, they will severely increase their chances of coming out on top and winning their first game of preseason.
RB Kendre Miller vs. Cowboys run defense
Running back Devin Neal and Ty Chandler each suffered significant injuries against the Rams. These injuries only emphasized the depletion of available backs the Saints have in the running back room. With the injuries, the Saints traded for Zamir White.
Despite the trade, running back Kendre Miller is still the player with the best chance to take over for Alvin Kamara while he’s away with an injury. Through two games, the Cowboys have allowed 242 rushing yards. While facing a defense that has been vulnerable to the run, the Saints’ run game has been inconsistent.
In his preseason debut against the Rams, Miller only rushed for 22 yards on six carries. While underwhelming, the fourth-year running back had plenty of plays negated by penalties and still showed the ability to create explosive plays. Friday’s matchup is a great opportunity for the young running back, who has a big opportunity to see playtime this season.
LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 5: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers and Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers handshake after the game on February 5, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena 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 Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
If there’s one thing everyone loves doing at the end of August, it’s figuring out their plans for January. In this series, we are breaking down the Sixers 2026-27 schedule into chunks to try to preview how each stretch of the season will go. Part 1 is already available here.
The second quarter of the Sixers’ season starts with an interesting back-to-back before a long potential break. They’ll host a very young Memphis Grizzlies team on Dec. 1 before Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets come to town on the 2nd. Likely because it’s a back-to-back, this is a rare Sixers-Nuggets game that is not on national television, so there will be no player participation policy ramifications for anyone unavailable for it.
How the Sixers fare in the NBA Cup will determine their next game after that as there are 10 off days built into the schedule for the Knockout Round. The Sixers have yet to advance that far since the Cup’s creation, so they’ve been like the majority of the league that’s had two consolation games scheduled during this time. As discussed in Part 1, the Sixers will have a quite a gauntlet to run through to break that trend this season.
Normal play will resume on the 12th when the Sixers start a home-and-home with the Orlando Magic, wrapping up their three games with Orlando on the season. They’ll host a couple of Texan teams in the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets with a trip to Charlotte sandwiched in the middle before their yearly Disney on Ice December road trip.
That of course starts with a Christmas Day showdown in L.A. against the Lakers. Most expected the Celtics’ to be the Sixers’ Christmas opponent, but it’s not a huge shock they made the day centered around LeBron. They’ll also face the L.A. Clippers, Sacramento Kings, and Phoenix Suns while out on the West Coast before swinging by Milwaukee to finish the trip. It’s also worth noting that those Kings and Suns games are a back-to-back.
Six of their next seven games will come at home with a wide range of quality in opponents. They’ll have to deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves, but they’ll also get the Brooklyn Nets and Washington Wizards in that stretch. Interestingly enough, that Wizards game is on national television, so the league is curious what that team will look like with its mix of young and old, new talent.
This stretch of the season will be wrapped up with an MLK Day matinee in Atlanta. It’ll be the second time they see the Hawks in as many weeks, before heading back home to take on the Indiana Pacers for another back-to-back. Indiana will be another Eastern Conference team the Sixers will have played all their games against before the halfway point of the season.
Those 21 games are probably an easier stretch of schedule than the first leg. They play more teams that aren’t expected to be playoff teams, but teams like the Grizzlies and Wizards could be feistier than expected. The West Coast trip will be a good durability test. Playing five games in seven nights, the majority of them across the country, will give guys like Tryese Maxey and Jaylen Brown their chance to show their regular season value. It’s not the hardest stretch of Western Conference teams to go through, but the Kings are the only cupcake in there.
The ensuing homestand should be an equally fun response. Two of the harder teams in the West will be coming through this time. On top of that the Sixers will be seeing the Hawks and the Heat again, two Southeastern teams that could be vying for position with them in the East.
Like the first stretch of the season, the travel is once again pretty balanced, with a lot of off days coming before their first longest road trip of the season. As far as quality in opponents goes, it looks like an easier stretch than the first on paper, but they don’t play the games on paper.
12/1: vs. Grizzlies 12/2: vs. Nuggets (B2B) 12/12: vs. Magic (Cup Break) 12/14: @Magic 12/17: vs. Mavericks 12/21: @Hornets 12/23: vs. Rockets 12/25: @Lakers (Christmas) 12/27: @Clippers 12/29: @Kings 12/30: @Suns (B2B) 1/1: @Bucks 1/ 4: vs. Hawks 1/ 6: vs. Thunder 1/ 8: vs. Heat 1/ 10:@Raptors 1/ 12: vs. Wizards 1/ 14: vs. Nets 1/16: vs. Timberwolves 1/18:@Hawks (MLK Day) 1/19: vs. Pacers (B2B)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 16: Fernando Mendoza attends the TIME100 Sports Gala at Pier 60, Chelsea Piers on July 16, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images for TIME) | Getty Images for TIME
Good quarterbacks are tough to find. And even generational talent coming out of college doesn’t always end up being as generational as you’d hoped. I’m looking at you Trevor Lawrence. This also wasn’t the best year for quarterbacks in the draft. But, so much depends on coaching, opportunity and the players around quarterbacks, that some fantasy value could come out of this draft class, but we may need to wait on it.
If you are in a 10-12 team dynasty that starts one quarterback, there really is no need to worry all that much about rookie quarterbacks, especially this season. Yes, Fernando Mendoza is going to play and Klint Kubiak may be able to get him into the upper tier of fantasy QBs sooner than later, but I’m not betting on its especially when I can make bets on RB, WR, and TE instead.
Of course, if you are in a 2QB league, you’re going to need to take fliers on quarterbacks, because their value is much higher when you need 24 starting QBs instead of 12. When those bye weeks come around or injuries pop up, you’ll feel that crunch and desperation for any warm body set in.
The good news is that rookie quarterbacks are cheap to roster, especially this year. Throw them on your bench and see how it goes.
Fernando Mendoza, Raiders
Mendoza is the only quarterback in this draft assured to make an NFL start. The team invested the first overall pick in hi, and they’ll do all they can to make him an NFL QB. I’m still not taking him ahead of the top offensive players in this draft, even if it is a 2QB league. That doesn’t mean he is very much worth drafting for your bench in hopes that Klint Kubiak can work his magic.
Ty Simpson, Rams
After Mendoza, Ty Simpson is the only quarterback with strong draft capitol and he has an old Matthew Stafford nearing retirement ahead of him. This alone makes him worth a pick, but the talent is suspect. Sean McVay and Puka Nacua are enough to give Simpson more upside than he deserves though. He’s a must draft in 2QB leagues and 14 team leagues with deep benches.
