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Cubs roster move: Moisés Ballesteros optioned, Justin Dean recalled

Justin Dean in the field for the Cubs during Spring Training 2026 | | Getty Images

Moisés Ballesteros had an excellent start to his 2026 season, serving mostly as the Cubs designated hitter. Over his first 25 games this year, “Mo Baller” batted .387/.435/.710 (24-for-62) with five doubles, five home runs, 16 RBI and 12 runs scored.

Unfortunately, he then went into an extended slump. Since that great start he’s batting just .128/.217/.170 (12-for-94) with one home run and 24 strikeouts in 34 games.

The Cubs quietly optioned Ballesteros to Triple-A Iowa on Thursday’s off day, per the team’s transactions page.

To replace Ballesteros on the 26-man active roster, outfielder Justin Dean was recalled from Iowa Friday.

Dean is 29 and a career minor leaguer who played in 18 regular season games for the Dodgers last year, mostly as a defensive replacement and pinch-runner (only two plate appearances). He also played in 13 games for the Dodgers in last year’s postseason, all as a pinch-runner or defensive replacement.

You might recall this play from Game 6 of the 2025 World Series [VIDEO].

That’s Dean in center field for the Dodgers, putting his arms up to indicate the ball hit by Addison Barger of the Blue Jays was stuck in the wall. That prevented Toronto from scoring a run on that play, and the Dodgers eventually won the game (and the World Series).

Dean wore uniform No. 1 for the Cubs in Spring Training this year and I assume he’ll continue to wear it when he makes his Cubs debut. Oddly enough, if he plays this weekend, that Cubs debut will be against the Blue Jays.

As for Ballesteros, he absolutely has the talent to hit at the major league level. The league appears to have adjusted to him and now he’ll have to make adjustments himself. I believe he’ll do so and will be back at some point later this season.

As always, we await developments.

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Why not another year of Eugenio Suárez?!

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 08: Eugenio Suarez #28 of the Cincinnati Reds blows a bubble-gum bubble during the fourth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on June 08, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images) | Getty Images

This week’s MLB Reacts question may well feature a classic case of striking while the iron is hot. Maybe, just maybe, we’ll look back on it later as an example of being irrationally exuberant at precisely the wrong time.

Either way, this week we got some pretty definitive results!

On Tuesday, we laid out the case that the projected roster of the Cincinnati Reds in 2027 sure looked like it could use a thumper, a big bat capable of playing corner infield defense given the holes existing both on their roster as-is as well as on the farm behind it. We also highlighted that in Eugenio Suárez, they’ve already got a franchise icon who is capable of providing just about all of that, whose mutual option for next year could maybe be reworked into a contract for the 2027 season.

Of course, we also asked that the morning after Geno socked a pair of homers – one a grand slam – while driving in 6 runs in a 12-0 rout of the New York Mets. The timing seemed impeccable for some classic Geno love, and that’s precisely what happened.

70% of respondents thought bringing back Geno for the 2027 was a good idea!

In the two games since that two-homer night, Geno has gone 0 for 8 with 5 Ks. He’s hitting .212/.274/.376 on the season (a .651 OPS), with just 7 homers and 25 RBI through 47 games played. Baseball Reference values him at -0.5 bWAR, and FanGraphs concurs (-0.5 fWAR), and his 35th birthday is almost exactly one month away.

Perhaps we’d get a markedly different result here if we’d asked on just about any other day of the 2026 season. But this week, after Monday’s game, it’s clear that Geno once again endeared himself to the Cincinnati Reds faithful, who wouldn’t mind seeing him back in the uniform again next year.

MLB Reacts is brought to you by FanDuel Sportsbook.

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Cardinals vs Royals Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game

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The St. Louis Cardinals are small road favorites in Kansas City, priced -120 on the moneyline.

My Cardinals vs. Royals predictions and MLB picks see value in backing the Redbirds to come out on top in a high-scoring affair on Friday, June 19.

Who will win Cardinals vs Royals today: Cardinals moneyline (-120)

Neither starting pitcher inspires much confidence — both have red flags that suggest regression is coming — so I’ll defer to the offenses and bullpens, where the St. Louis Cardinals look better.

They sit 14th in SLG and 13th in runs, while the Kansas City Royals rank outside the Top 20 in both categories.

The Cardinals are 19th in bullpen FIP while the Royals are 29th, giving them a pitching advantage after the first handful of innings.

I think the Cardinals deserve to be bigger favorites, and would back them on the moneyline up to -130.

Covers COVERS INTEL:Seth Lugo has posted a 42.6% hard hit rate over the last 30 days, fifth-highest among today's projected starters.

Cardinals vs Royals Over/Under pick: Over 9 (-115)

Seth Lugo is sporting a 3.86 ERA despite a 5.30 xERA. He has gotten much better results than deserved, and the Cardinals are capable of bringing him back down to earth.

They sit 10th in wOBA vs. right-handed pitching this month and will benefit from playing in a hitter-friendly park.

The alarm bells are ringing for Michael McGreevy, whose 2.99 ERA masks that he ranks in the 10th percentile with a 5.58 xERA.

Kansas City ranks sixth in wOBA against righties in June and has performed better at home all year.

Play the Over to -130.

Todd Cordell's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 34-27, -0.65 units
  • Over/Under bets: 32-27-2, +1.69 units

Cardinals vs Royals weather

Temperatures in the low 80s are expected with slight winds blowing out. The bats will see a small boost.

Cardinals vs Royals odds

  • Moneyline: Cardinals -120 | Royals +100
  • Run line: Cardinals -1.5 (+140) | Royals +1.5 (-160)
  • Over/Under: Over 9 (-115) | Under 9 (-105)

Cardinals vs Royals trend

St. Louis has hit the team total Over in 24 of its last 35 away games (+11.45 units, 27% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Cardinals vs. Royals.

How to watch Cardinals vs Royals and game info

LocationKauffman Stadium, Kansas City, MO
DateFriday, June 19, 2026
First pitch8:15 p.m. ET
TVApple TV
Cardinals starting pitcherMichael McGreevy
(3-5, 2.99 ERA)
Royals starting pitcherSeth Lugo
(2-4, 3.86 ERA)

Cardinals vs Royals latest injuries

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

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South Side Sox Reacts: The White Sox … win the World Series?!?

Writer error (yeah, Brett’s wearing this one) prevented the issuance of our customary White Sox question this week (it concerned the area on the roster to strengthen at the trade deadline), so we’ll table it for a week from now. But that doesn’t mean you didn’t get your national surveys this week, with some fun questions to weigh in on!

The first national question … was a bummer. But timely, given Rob Manfred’s announcement on Thursday that MLB owners would seek to slash the MLB draft to 12 rounds (and along with it the bonus pool) and instituting an international draft as well. Just as the White Sox are getting back to winning, ominous labor issues loom over the game. A majority — but frankly, not a big enough majority — anticipated pinning the blame on ownership, which is (always) the correct answer. Presumably, a South Side fan base voted anti-owner at a clip much bigger than 58%:

The second national question was much more fun, albeit predictable. It’s not looking good — nor should it — for the American League this year:

Bless you crazies who tabbed the White Sox to go all the way. You gotta figure that Every Single One of the White Sox support votes came from this very site. STUFF THE BALLOT BOX BABY!

Did you miss out on this round of questions? No worry, sign up here to participate in our weekly emailed surveys, and have your White Sox voice be heard!

This week’s Reacts is brought to you by FanDuel.

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What will Romy Gonzalez’s role be for the Red Sox?

Romy Gonzalez began a rehab assignment at Double-A on Tuesday.

Prior to the season, I outlined the impact of Romy Gonzalez’s injury, combined with the Red Sox letting Rob Refsnyder go to Seattle. I worried that the lineup would struggle against left-handers without both of them. I should have also added that the lineup would struggle against right-handers without both of them.

Sure, Gonzalez’ .978 OPS in 143 plate appearances against lefties would be welcomed. But his explosive bat was pretty good against everybody a year ago. Romy hit .286 with a .718 OPS against right-handers a year ago. Of players with 100+ plate appearances this season, the only Red Sox with a higher OPS than .718 against all pitchers are Willson Contreras, Ceddanne Rafaela, and Wilyer Abreu. Outside of these three hitters, no one is owed anything in terms of playing time going forward. This lineup team is broken.

He could return during the upcoming road trip, but should be back for the Yankees series on Thursday, at the latest. As Gonzalez embarked on his rehab assignment, manager Chad Tracy said, “With the power potential and the thump with the bat, we’ve got to get him involved.”

How involved, though? Gonzalez played second base on Tuesday and designated hitter on Wednesday. Tracy mentioned they’ll work him in at first base in the minor leagues to be the backup to Contreras at first base. In my mind, Romy should be an everyday player. Mix him in at shortstop during the rehab, where he has played 117 MLB innings defensively, so that he can shift over there if Marcelo Mayer (.588 OPS) continues slumping.

Additionally, who should be the corresponding move? Andruw Monasterio plays all of the same positions that Gonzalez does, and over the past 30 days, he’s slashing .194/.242/.355 with a 42.4% K-rate. The Red Sox are also carrying three catchers, who have a combined total of 2 home runs and 19 RBI in 329 plate appearances. One of whom is Connor Wong, whose last home run came on September 8th, 2024 (!!!), and still has an option remaining.

A reminder that a year ago, Romy had the seventh best batting average (.305) in all of baseball, out of players with 300+ plate appearances.

How often do you think Romy should play, and who should hit the road? Discuss in the comments, and be good to each other.

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Justice department says it will investigate MLB amid Pride hats controversy

Landen Roupp was one of several players to write a Bible verse on their hats during the San Francisco Giants’ Pride Night game.Photograph: Scott Marshall/AP

The US justice department has launched a civil rights investigation into Major League Baseball after the league criticized three San Francisco Giants players who wrote Bible verses on their hats during the team’s Pride Night.

Most of MLB’s 30 teams celebrate Pride month with a themed game to acknowledge the LGBTQ community and its baseball fans. During a 12 June game against the Chicago Cubs, pitchers Landen Roupp, JT Brubaker and Ryan Walker wrote Bible verses on their hats, which featured the Giants’ logo in rainbow colors, while pitcher Sam Hentges chose not to wear the themed cap at all.

MLB said in a statement on Monday that writing on hats “violates our rules, and consistent with normal practice, we have warned the players about future violations.”

Related: Professional baseball team cancels game after players refuse to wear Pride jerseys

On Thursday, assistant US attorney general Harmeet Dhillon wrote a letter to MLB commissioner Rob Manfred saying the justice department had referred the league to the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to investigate whether the discipline amounts to religious discrimination.

“The Civil Rights Act prohibits MLB and its franchises from unreasonably burdening the rights of players with religious objections to serving as the League’s vehicle for pro-Pride messages,” Dhillon said in the letter. “Federal law is clear: employers must modify their uniform requirements to reasonably accommodate their employees’ exercise of religion.”

Dhillon called MLB’s decision to allow players to wear Black Lives Matter uniform patches in 2020 a “double standard”. Andrea Lucas, the EEOC chair, reposted Dhillon’s letter saying the agency could not confirm the existence of a charge or investigation without a court filing or public resolution, but added: “Rest assured, however, that EEOC is committed to protecting the religious liberty of all workers.”

Roupp said after the Giants’ game last week that the decision to write on his cap was not malicious and that there was “no hate at all”. Hentges said he did not appreciate being told to wear the cap for a cause he did not “morally support”.

After MLB’s warning to the Giants players, vice-president JD Vance weighed in on X, saying: “Trump won we don’t have to do this anymore”, referencing Pride hats. Republican senator Josh Hawley wrote a letter to Manfred voicing his concerns over what he termed a “pattern of discrimination” against Christian players.

The league has said that its warning about writing on caps has nothing to do with the content of the message, and that it has sent the same warning for Mother’s Day messages and names of family members.

The controversy over Pride nights is not new in baseball. In 2022, several members of the Tampa Bay Rays refused to wear the team’s rainbow-themed logos in “faith-based decisions”. This week, it extended beyond the majors, as the independent league York Revolution forfeited a game after some of its players refused to don the Pride Night jerseys.

The Giants released a statement after their Pride Night saying they are “proud to support Pride Night and the LGBTQ community” while also respecting that “individuals may make personal choices about participating in team activations” and apologizing for the “pain and anger [of] many in the LGBTQ+ community”.

San Francisco has a large LGBTQ population and holds an important place in the history of American LGBTQ rights. The director of the city’s Pride efforts told NBC Bay Area that the moment was painful for many Giants fans.

“I hate that it’s dividing us, this time of year I hope that we’re unifying people,” said Suzanne Ford.

“It’s so ludicrous that this story is being spun that Christians are being discriminated against,” she added.

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Bryce Harper and the Burden of Great Expectations

Sunday Night Baseball is coming to Citizens Bank Park this week when the New York Mets take on the Phillies at 7:20 p.m. ET in a game that can be seen on NBC and Peacock. Both teams got off to slow starts this season, but the Phillies have turned things around and still have designs on a long October playoff run.

And if that happens, one of the main reasons will be due to the play of their first baseman Bryce Harper. Harper has accomplished an almost impossible task: he has lived up to extraordinary expectations. He was perhaps the most hyped position-player prospect in history, certainly the most hyped in the last 30 years.

Harper has outperformed expectations. Remember, he was a mega-star before his first major league plate appearance. He went from child prodigy (he skipped the final two years of high school to concentrate on his baseball development) to one of the game’s most enduring superstars.

Harper was the first player selected in the June 2010 draft. He won the National League MVP Award in 2015 with a season that would fit in nicely on the back of Ted Williams’ or Barry Bonds’ baseball card. Harper would capture another NL MVP Award with a different team six years later in 2021. In 2022, Bryce won the NLCS MVP, leading the Phillies to the World Series.

It is the middle of 2026—Bryce’s 15th season in MLB. It is his eighth season in Philadelphia, since signing his 13-year contract in early 2019. He’s on pace for a 35-homer season. He’s slugging .496. His OPS is .860, and his OPS+ is 133 (not far off from his career 142).

I appreciate all of this.

Aaron Judge: Born April 26, 1992: 385 HR
Bryce Harper: Born October 16, 1992: 378 HR

Harper is six months younger than Judge and has virtually the same amount of home runs. Judge does have one more piece of hardware: he has three MVPs, and Harper has two.

If Harper compares to one of the greatest right-handed batters ever (Judge), he also compares quite favorably to one of the greatest left-handed batters—Barry Bonds.

Through 7,000 PA
Bryce HarperBarry Bonds
(through 9/6/24)(through 6/19/97)
5,858AB5,755
332HR346
1,026BB1,143
1,647H1,651
.281AVG.287
.389OBP.405
.521SLG.545
.910OPS.950

Through their first 7,000 plate appearances, Bonds had won three MVP awards, and Harper two. Bonds had slightly higher average, on-base, and slugging percentages, but it was all close. Clearly on Hall of Fame tracks.

You know what happened to Bonds. He didn’t decline after 7,000 plate appearances. He did the opposite, to an extreme degree. Harper has followed a more natural projection.

After their 7,000th PA
Bryce HarperBarry Bonds
816AB4,093
46HR416
.268AVG.314
.365OBP.494
.504SLG.694
.869OPS1.187

We should be celebrating Harper for being this good this far into his contract, this far into his career.

The two contenders for the “Most Hyped Position Player” entering MLB the last 50 years besides Harper were probably Alex Rodriguez and Bo Jackson.

Bo was out of baseball by the time he was 31, a victim of a damaged hip.

Alex’s name was linked to steroid use and admitted in 2009 to taking a banned substance when he arrived in Texas as a free agent in 2001. His name was linked to Biogenesis, a company investigated for providing performance-enhancing substances to players. Arod received a 211-day suspension and missed the entire 2014 season. He has not received much support for the Hall of Fame despite superb statistics.
           
That’s the pattern that most of these prodigies follow. There are only a few paths. One is that the journey ends prematurely, due to the body breaking down. Another, as we saw with Rodriguez and Bonds, is prolonged greatness aided by performance-enhancing substances. The third is inevitability, where a player performs to high expectations, and then has a natural regression.
           
That’s Harper.
           
Harper has hit 15 home runs this season, a 5.1 HR% that would be his highest since 2021. Assuming the 33-year-old plays only six more seasons after this one, let’s be conservative and give him 18 more this season to end 2026 with 395. Now, project him for only 2,400 more at-bats through 2031 and a 4.7% HR percentage. That gives him 112 more home runs, meaning he would finish with 507 home runs.
           
That’s 500 home runs without being suspended or widely suspected of cheating. That’s 500 home runs and (at least) a couple of MVP seasons and deep playoff runs while coming back from broken thumbs and Tommy John surgery and hamstring injuries along the way.
           
More fighting back time: Bryce this season is striking out less and walking more than his career averages. He is performing well in the eighth year of his 13-year deal, which is remarkable given the number of long-term contracts which don’t work out in the end. Harper started 2026 with a memorable game-tying home run in the World Baseball Classic. Will he end one with a memorable October blast?
           
This weekend, Bryce will face the Mets, a familiar opponent as Harper has spent his entire career in the N.L. East. Harper has hit 40 home runs against the Mets. Is that a lot?

MLB: Cincinnati Reds at Philadelphia Phillies

May 19, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (3) on deck against the Cincinnati Reds at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Most HR vs. Mets

60 — Willie Stargell, HOF
49 — Chipper Jones, HOF
49 — Mike Schmidt, HOF
48 — Willie McCovey, HOF
48 — Ryan Howard
45 — Hank Aaron, HOF
42 — Pat Burrell
40 — Bryce Harper

Harper has hit home runs against some terrific Mets pitchers: Johan Santana, current teammate Zack Wheeler, Bartolo Colon, Jacob deGrom, Matt Harvey, Max Scherzer, and Edwin Diaz.

▶ A few Father’s Day connections between the Phillies and Mets

It’s Father’s Day every Philadelphia Phillies game:

Don Mattingly’s son Preston Mattingly is the general manager of the Phillies. It’s hard to imagine a father-son duo operating a team as GM-manager. Wait, the son is the boss of the father?
           

It’s nice that the Mets play the Phils on Father’ Day:

Phillies’ TV announcer Tom McCarthy’s son Pat McCarthy is a radio broadcaster for the New York Mets.

The most memorable Phillies/Mets game played on Father’s Day:

The Phillies and Mets played on Father's Day--also June 21--in 1964. It was memorable.

Philadelphia's Jim Bunning pitched a perfect game--only the fifth all-time...the first in regular season play since 1922....the first in the National League since 1880.

Jim Bunning of course was a Hall of Fame pitcher (224-184, 3.27). He was a sidearm pitcher, mostly for the Tigers and Phillies. When he retired, he was second on the all-time strikeout list (only to Walter Johnson). Following his baseball career, he became a member of the United States Senate (from Kentucky) from 1999-2011. He passed away in 2017 at the age of 85. 

A great use of ChatGPT is to find out exactly how many times since 1964 has Father's Day been on June 21. 2026 will be only the ninth time (1970, 1981, 1987, 1992, 1998, 2009, 2015, 2020, and 2026).

Can lightning strike twice on the same date with the same franchises? Where’s Benjamin Franklin when you need him?

Editors’ Note: Elliott Kalb - dubbed “Mr. Stats” decades ago by Marv Albert and Bob Costas - is the former Senior Editorial Director at MLB Network and a longtime contributor of research and information to NBC Sports’ telecasts.

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Cavs final report card: Jarrett Allen

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 21: Jarrett Allen #31 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots a free throw during the game against the New York Knicks during Game 2 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals on May 21, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. 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 Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

There is something to be said about a player who just goes out every night and does what you expect them to do. Jarrett Allen is one of those guys for the Cleveland Cavaliers, even in a year where he saw his shot-making efficiency take a slight dip. Nevertheless, it was another positive season for Allen on both ends of the floor. The question now, heading into the offseason, is whether he will be on the roster next season.

Regular Season Stats

  • 15.4 points
  • 8.5 rebounds
  • 1.8 assists
  • 63.8% FG
  • 10% 3PT FG
  • 70.9% FT

For the sixth-straight season in a Cavaliers uniform, Allen averaged at least 13 points and eight rebounds per game. His offensive game is what it always has been, a rim-runner and paint janitor that can be relied upon to get up for the routine dunker spot lob. He profiled as an ideal fit next to James Harden in the starting lineup, feasting on the excellent pick-and-roll passing chops of the Cavs’ point guard. Sure enough, Allen’s stats ballooned after Harden arrived in Cleveland to round out an otherwise excellent season.

Prior to the Harden trade, Allen was having a fairly underwhelming regular season for his standards. The shot-making efficiency was below his usually elite standards, and the rebounds had taken a step back as well. Allen’s defense has always been at least good, if not elite on certain nights. After the All-Star break, Allen’s defense did pick up in a meaningful way — falling in line with what was a career month of February. In fact, in that month, Allen averaged 22.3 points per game on 74 percent shooting, adding 11.5 rebounds per game and more than a block per contest with nine double-doubles.

Another ho-hum, solid season for the Cavs’ starting center, but the story will always go back to postseason performances. The lights were not too bright for Allen in these playoffs, as he scored in double-digits in 13 games and notched a double-double in three of those.

If there was a knock on Allen this past season, it would be that he was available for only 56 games, down from the full 82 he played the year prior. That is the lowest number of games played for Allen since 2021-22, despite playing 27.1 minutes per game. But Allen was very good in the games he played.

Allen’s future will be the big topic of the offseason for the Cavs, as his contract is excellent value and he has a very high floor with generally good activity on both ends. It is fair to wonder if Allen’s play this past season impacts the front office’s plans to reshape the roster. The Cavs could, and likely will, run things back with the front court of Allen and Evan Mobley. That would not be the worst thing in the world, especially if the Cavs get another season like they just did out of Allen. Based on his career stats and consistency, assume more of the same for next year.

Grade: B+

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NBA Mock Draft 2026: Who do the Clippers take at No. 5?

With the 2026 NBA Draft less than a week away, one question affecting the league is what Milwaukee will do with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Moving the veteran forward would likely involve the Bucks receiving draft picks in return, and it would also affect what the team does with its own pick. With the first four picks seemingly settled, that is one of the situations that will significantly affect Tuesday's first round in Brooklyn.

Another question is what the Clippers will do at No. 5. While the team did acquire Darius Garland last season, there's still a need for perimeter depth. And that part of the draft won't lack for quality options. Below is our most recent mock draft, including all 60 picks, with NBC Sports writers Raphielle Johnson and Kurt Helin providing some thoughts on the first rounders.

First Round

1. Washington Wizards: G/F AJ Dybantsa, BYU

While Darryn Peterson may be angling to go first overall, Dybantsa remains the Wizards' choice, according to recent reports. His offensive versatility and athleticism make the former BYU standout an excellent option for Washington, especially if they re-sign Trae Young to address the need at point guard. - Raphielle Johnson

2. Utah Jazz: G Darryn Peterson, Kansas

Utah president Danny Ainge does not care if Peterson worked out for the Jazz. Nor does he care that Peterson's agent is also the agent for Keyonte George, and he's worried that a Peterson/George backcourt could cannibalize each other's touches. There was a lot more smoke around Ace Bailey not wanting to go to Utah last year, Danny and Austin Ainge drafted him anyway. While there are rumors that the Jazz really like Boozer, we're going to bet they make the pick of the player with the highest upside and who fits best with their current roster. That's Peterson. - Kurt Helin

3. Memphis Grizzlies: F Cameron Boozer, Duke

While Ja Morant remains on the Grizzlies roster for now, there will clearly be a changing of the guard in Memphis. Adding Boozer, who hails from a winning college program and is the son of a former pro in Carlos Boozer, will help with the rebuild. Plus, the Grizzlies can use some more depth in the frontcourt. - Johnson

4. Chicago Bulls: F Caleb Wilson, North Carolina

Wilson and his off-the-charts athleticism next to Matas Buzelis? That is an entertaining foundation for Tiago Splitter to build upon. - Helin

5. LA Clippers (from Indiana): G Keaton Wagler, Illinois

Is this pick where the 2026 draft "starts?" One could argue that, especially if the first four picks go as many expect. Wagler's emergence factored into Illinois reaching the Final Four for the first time since 2005, and the combination of size and offensive skill set makes for a good fit within the Clippers' perimeter rotation. - Johnson

6. Brooklyn Nets: G Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas

Brooklyn may have drafted two point guards one year ago — Egor Dëmin and Nolan Traoré — but neither really showed the spark and scoring touch that Acuff brings. Brooklyn needs talent and an entertaining star, and Acuff can be exactly that. - Helin

7. Sacramento Kings: G Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville

Of the guards projected to be selected in this segment of the draft, Brown may offer the highest ceiling because of his shooting ability and offensive gifts. However, he'll need to become a more efficient lead guard at the NBA level. The Kings desperately need to rebuild, and addressing the point guard position would be a good place to start. - Johnson

8. Atlanta (from New Orleans): G Kingston Flemings, Houston

Atlanta showed a lot of promise after the Trae Young trade last season, and they took more games off the Knicks in the playoffs than any other team, but CJ McCollum is not the long-term answer at point guard. The lightning-quick Flemings is a quality passer and decision maker, and he could be setting up Jalen Johnson and company for years to come. - Helin

9. Dallas Mavericks: G Brayden Burries, Arizona

NBA insider Jake Fischer reported earlier this week that Burries impressed the Clippers in a recent workout, so it's possible that he isn't on the board when the Mavericks come up. However, if he is, the former Arizona guard would make for a good addition to a perimeter rotation headlined by Kyrie Irving, who's returning from a torn ACL. - Johnson

10. Milwaukee Bucks: F Nate Ament, Tennessee

This is a bet on Taylor Jenkins' player development skills — there is a much better player in Ament than we saw at Tennessee last season. His defense and his shooting have to improve; a lot of things need to get better, but the Bucks are rebuilding, so betting on a player's upside makes sense. - Helin

11. Golden State Warriors: F/C Morez Johnson Jr., Michigan

Thought to be a late-first round option at the beginning of the pre-draft process, Johnson appears likely to hear his name called during the lottery. He's one of the best defenders in this class, regardless of position, and the Warriors need reinforcements in the frontcourt. Given the experience he has, most recently winning a national title, Johnson has the temperament required to offer immediate value to a veteran team looking to make one more run. - Johnson

12. Oklahoma City Thunder (from LA Clippers): C Aday Mara, Michigan

I'm not sure Mara is where Oklahoma City plans to go in the draft — they have the more versatile Chet Holmgren on the roster already — but if he falls all the way to 12 on the board, they may have to take him as the best player available. It may take a year or two for the 7'3" center to develop, but he could eventually slot into Isaiah Hartenstein's role. - Helin

13. Miami Heat: G Labaron Philon Jr., Alabama

Given the Heat's connection to Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors, it's possible that this pick is included if Miami makes a deal. Philon has been reportedly linked to Milwaukee, and the Heat also like the former Alabama guard, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer. Regardless of where he lands, Philon has the offensive skill set needed to make an immediate impact next season. - Johnson

14. Charlotte Hornets: F Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan

Charlotte has the start of a rotation it likes based around LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller. Now Lendeborg steps in as a ready-made four, giving them some defense and passing. Lendeborg doesn't have to create here, just finish the plays set up by others, and he showed he could do that all the way through Michigan's championship run. - Helin

15. Chicago Bulls (from Portland): C Hannes Steinbach, Washington

The Bulls have their head coach in Tiago Splitter; now, they need to go about filling their roster for a proper rebuild. There's been a clear need to upgrade the frontcourt, even before Chicago traded Nikola Vučević at the February deadline. Steinbach has great hands and is an excellent rebounder; drafting him would be a good move for the Bulls. - Johnson

16. Memphis Grizzlies (from Phoenix via Orlando): G Christian Anderson Jr., Texas Tech

Memphis needs everything and nobody is going to go wrong taking the best shooter in the draft. - Helin

17. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Philadelphia): F Karim Lopez, New Zealand Breakers

In addition to having two first-round picks in this draft, the Thunder also has to account for last year's first-round pick, Thomas Sorber, returning from a torn ACL. And with some key decisions to make with veterans Isaiah Hartenstein and Luguentz Dort, it's possible that lead executive Sam Presti looks to save some money somewhere. If Lopez is the pick, he would go into an excellent situation for a developing player. - Johnson

18. Charlotte Hornets (from Orlando via Phoenix): C Chris Cenac Jr., Houston

Charlotte is looking for help along the front line, so this may be higher than a lot of teams expected Cenac to go, but it makes sense for the Hornets. Cenac is a development project, a player with all the athletic tools, but he needs to work on his feel for the game and his shot. He's also got to show more consistent rim protection than we saw in Houston. A lot falls on Charles Lee and his staff with this pick. - Helin

19. Toronto Raptors: C Jayden Quaintance, Kentucky

Even with the selection of Collin Murray-Boyles in last year's draft, the Raptors still have needs to address in the frontcourt. Sandro Mamukelashvili can opt out of his deal and become a free agent, while starter Jakob Poeltl struggled with back issues for most of last season. Quaintance comes with some risk given his knee injury, but he boasts a high ceiling thanks to his athleticism and rim-protection ability. - Johnson

20. San Antonio Spurs (from Atlanta): G/F Dailyn Swain, Texas

If he plans to get on the court for Mitch Johnson, Swain will have to improve his defense and shooting. That said, he's going to fit in with San Antonio because he's big (6'7"), physical and likes to drive into the paint. The Spurs need more size on the wing; there's a role for Swain if he can grab it. - Helin

21. Detroit Pistons (from Minnesota): G Bennett Stirtz, Iowa

Whether it's through the draft or free agency, the Pistons need to add supplementary playmakers to help lighten Cade Cunningham's workload. Stirtz does come with some defensive concerns, but he's an excellent shooter who had the ball in his hands a lot at the college level. - Johnson

22. Philadelphia 76ers (from Houston via Oklahoma City): G/F Cameron Carr, Baylor

Carr is a knock-down 3-point shooter (37.4% last season for the Bears) who moves well off the ball and can put the ball on the floor and attack closeouts. His game should translate to the next level, but he's got to get a lot stronger and become a better, more physical defender. You can see a role for him in Philly. - Helin

23. Atlanta Hawks (from Cleveland): F Koa Peat, Arizona

Peat didn't have the best draft combine showing, as his perimeter shot remains a work in progress. However, the physicality and athleticism that he brings to the table should be enough to ensure the forward goes in the first round. The Hawks can use additional depth at the forward position, even if strengthening their options at center is the priority this offseason. - Johnson

24. New York Knicks: F Allen Graves, Santa Clara

Knicks fans are going to love him, and Mike Brown might as well, because he plays a high-IQ game and his strengths help a team win the possession battle (he will get you some steals). That said, the Santa Clara star fell this far down the board because he's a bit of a project — there's nobody better to learn from firsthand than the Villanova core in New York. - Helin

25. Los Angeles Lakers: C Tarris Reed Jr., UConn

Simply put, Deandre Ayton was not consistent enough last season. And regardless of what he decides to do with his player option, the Lakers need a post player who's more compatible with Luka Dončić in the two-man game. Reed, who was outstanding in the Huskies' run to the national title game, has the potential to be that kind of post player. - Johnson

26. Denver Nuggets: G Isaiah Evans, Duke

He's got good size (6'6") and he's a quality movement shooter, and there's a path to him becoming a quality NBA rotation player. But he's going to have to get stronger, improve his feel for the game — get open for Nikola Jokic and he will find you — and become a better defender. A bit of a project, but a good pick this deep for Denver. - Helin

27. Boston Celtics: F Joshua Jefferson, Iowa State

Jefferson's final season at Iowa State was short-circuited by an ankle injury suffered during the NCAA tournament, but he is one of the most versatile offensive talents in this draft class. He can score and create for others, and Jefferson's basketball IQ would make him a good fit for Joe Mazzulla's system in Boston. - Johnson

28. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Detroit): C Henri Veesaar, North Carolina

When Rudy Gobert entered the league from France, Utah's strength and development team spent a couple of years building him up physically to become the elite defender and force he is today. It's similar for Vessaar, but the other side of the coin — his strength and conditioning need to get a lot better so he can become a solid NBA defender, because he's already got the shot and handle teams are looking for at the five in the modern NBA. Good roll of the dice here by the Timberwolves. - Helin

29. Cleveland Cavaliers (from San Antonio via Atlanta): G Meleek Thomas, Arkansas

Cleveland had the NBA's most expensive roster last season, and while they reached the Eastern Conference Finals, the Cavaliers weren't very competitive after Game 1. Due to payroll constraints, the front office needs to find talent at an affordable price. Thomas has one of the quickest releases in this draft class, and his shot-making ability would fit nicely in a rotation headlined by Donovan Mitchell and James Harden. - Johnson

30. Dallas Mavericks (from Oklahoma City via Washington and Philadelphia): G Ebuka Okorie, Stanford

Okorie has an NBA-level skill: He is arguably the best driving guard in this class. He gets downhill and touches the paint almost at will, it seems. His handle is elite for a guy not yet in the NBA. However, his finishing on those drives — whether passing out or scoring — needs to improve, as do his defense and decision-making. There is potential there as a guard next to Cooper Flagg, but Okorie has work to do. - Helin

Second Round

31. New York Knicks (from Washington via Oklahoma City and Houston): C Zuby Ejiofor, St. John's

32. Memphis Grizzlies (from Indiana via Milwaukee): G/F Sergio De Larrea, Valencia (Spain)

33. Brooklyn Nets: G/F Richie Saunders, BYU

34. Sacramento Kings: G/F Alex Karaban, UConn

35. San Antonio Spurs (from Utah via Minnesota): F Baba Miller, Cincinnati

36. LA Clippers (from Memphis via Atlanta and Utah): G Emanuel Sharp, Houston

37. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Dallas): G Jack Kayil, Alba Berlin (Germany)

38. Chicago Bulls (from New Orleans via Boston, Detroit and Portland): G Ryan Conwell, Louisville

39. Houston Rockets (from Chicago via Washington): G Braden Smith, Purdue

40. Boston Celtics (from Milwaukee via Orlando): F Dillon Mitchell, St. John's

41. Miami Heat (from Golden State via Charlotte, New York, Oklahoma City and Atlanta): F/C Izaiyah Nelson, South Florida

42. San Antonio Spurs (from Portland via New Orleans): G Vsevolod Ishchenko, Lokomotiv Kuban (Russia)

43. Brooklyn Nets (from LA Clippers via Houston): C Ugonna Onyenso, Virginia

44. San Antonio Spurs (from Miami via Indiana): G Ja'Kobi Gillespie, Tennessee

45. Sacramento Kings (from Charlotte via San Antonio, Atlanta and New York): G Jaden Bradley, Arizona

46. Orlando Magic: F Trevon Brazile, Arkansas

47. Phoenix Suns (from Philadelphia via Houston and Oklahoma City): G Nick Boyd, Wisconsin

48. Dallas Mavericks (from Phoenix via Washington): G Bruce Thornton, Ohio State

49. Denver Nuggets (from Atlanta via Brooklyn and Golden State): G/F Tyler Nickel, Vanderbilt

50. Toronto Raptors: C Felix Okpara, Tennessee

51. Washington Wizards (from Minnesota via Detroit and New York): F Tobi Lawal, Virginia Tech

52. LA Clippers (from Cleveland): F/C Tyler Bilodeau, UCLA

53. Houston Rockets: F Bryce Hopkins, St. John's

54. Golden State Warriors (from Los Angeles Lakers via Toronto, Miami and Cleveland): G/F Tobias Jensen, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)

55. New York Knicks: F Nick Martinelli, Northwestern

56. Chicago Bulls (from Denver via Minnesota, Phoenix, Charlotte and Phoenix): F Tobe Awaka, Arizona

57. Atlanta Hawks (from Boston): G Noam Yaacov, Oostende (Belgium)

58. New Orleans Pelicans (from Detroit via New York, Brooklyn, Phoenix, Orlando and LA Clippers): G Kylan Boswell, Illinois

59. Minnesota Timberwolves (from San Antonio via Indiana): G Tamin Lipsey, Iowa State

60. Washington Wizards (from Oklahoma City via San Antonio and Miami): G Milos Uzan, Houston

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Astros Prospect Report: June 18th

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX - JULY 24: Ethan Pecko #20 of the Corpus Christi Hooks pitches during the game between the Amarillo Sod Poodles and the Corpus Christi Hooks at Whataburger Field on Thursday, July 24, 2025 in Corpus Christi, Texas. (Photo by Vanessa Buentello/Minor League Baseball via Getty Images)

Another day of minor league baseball is in the books. See the results below. Check out the previous day’s recap here.

AAA: Sugar Land Space Cowboys (31-39) lost 3-2 (BOX SCORE)

Pecko got the start for Sugar Land and was great going 7 innings allowing just 1 run while striking out 5 batters. The offense got on the board in the 7th on a Price walk. They took the lead in the 8th on a Salazar RBI triple. VanWey allowed a run in the 8th as the Isotopes tied it. The game went to extras and in the 10th inning, the Isotopes walked it off as Sugar Land fell 3-2.

Note: Ferreras is hitting .468 in Triple-A.

AA: Corpus Christi Hooks (30-36) lost 11-7 (BOX SCORE)

Hicks started for the Hooks but ran into some trouble allowing 6 runs over 4.2 innings. The offense got on the board in the first inning on a Spence solo home run. In the 3rd, they scored 3 more runs on a Spence 2 run home run and Brutcher solo home run. Holy added a solo home run in the 4th. The offense got 2 runs back in the 7th on Spence and Brutcher RBI singles but the pen struggled allowing 5 more runs as the Hooks fell 11-7.

Note: Spence is hitting .377 in June.

A+: Asheville Tourists (17-48) lost 3-2 (BOX SCORE)

Oakes got the start but struggled allowing 2 runs while retiring just 2 batters. Asheville got on the board in the first inning on a Call sac fly. Carr relieved Oakes and went 4.1 innings allowing 1 run. In the bottom of the 5th, Call connected on a solo home run. Unfortunately the game was called after 5 innings due to rain as Asheville fell 3-2.

Note: Nunez is hitting .386 in June.

A: Fayetteville Woodpeckers (32-33) won 9-4 (BOX SCORE)

Shoemaker started for the Woodpeckers and allowed 1 run over 3.2 innings. The offense blew the game open in the third scoring 8 runs on a Flores 2 run home run, a run on an error, a Cauro RBI double, Ramirez 2 run double, Gomez RBI single and Huezo RBI single. Mathiesen and Cassedy were solid in relief allowing 1 run each. There was about a 2 hour rain delay but the Woodpeckers were able to hold on for the 9-4 win.

Note: Cauro is hitting .310 this season.

Today’s minor league starters:

SL: Josh Hendrickson – 7:35 CT

CC: Cole Hertzler – 7:05 CT

AV: Parker Smith – 5:35 CT

FV: TBD – 6:05 CT

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Reds vs Yankees Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game

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The New York Yankees are heavily favored to best the Cincinnati Reds in tonight's series opener, carrying -260 odds to win.

With a massive starting pitching advantage, my Reds vs. Yankees predictions and MLB picks see value backing New York to win by multiple runs.

Who will win Reds vs Yankees today: Yankees -1.5 (-125)

Rhett Lowder ranks in the 25th percentile or worse in xERA, xBA, strikeout rate, chase rate, and walk rate. 

He allows a ton of quality contact, doesn’t miss bats, and control issues lead to a lot of additional traffic on the basepaths.

The New York Yankees are third in wOBA, second in OPS, and first in BB% against right-handed pitching at home — they are a perfect team to exploit Lowder’s shortcomings.

Cam Schlittler has already developed into an elite starter, and should have little problem against a Cincinnati Reds attack missing Elly De La Cruz.

Play Yankees -1.5 to -135.

Covers COVERS INTEL:Lowder has a 5.08 SIERA over the last 30 days, third-worst among today's starting pitchers.

Reds vs Yankees Over/Under pick: Under 8.5 (+100)

Schlittler has posted a 1.69 ERA over seven starts against teams ranking Bottom-15 in OPS vs. right-handed pitching. Only once did he concede more than a single run.

The Reds are a subpar offense against righties on the road, and the injury to De La Cruz only makes their life tougher.

The Yankees are missing Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and Trent Grisham. Not to mention, Jazz Chisholm is nursing a groin issue. 

It’ll be harder for them to run up the score without them. I also project they’ll only have eight innings to hit.

Play to -115.

Todd Cordell's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 34-27, -0.65 units
  • Over/Under bets: 32-27-2, +1.69 units

Reds vs Yankees weather

It will be another warm day in New York, with temperatures expected to reach the 80s. That should boost the bats, although both teams are missing some of their top power sources.

Reds vs Yankees odds

  • Moneyline: Reds +310 | Yankees -260
  • Run line: Reds +1.5 (+105) | Yankees -1.5 (-125)
  • Over/Under: Over 8.5 (-120) | Under 8.5 (+100)

Reds vs Yankees trend

New York has hit the Run Line in seven of the last 11 games (+4.4 units, 33% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Reds vs. Yankees.

How to watch Reds vs Yankees and game info

LocationYankee Stadium, Bronx, NY
DateFriday, June 19, 2026
First pitch7:05 p.m. ET
TVReds.TV, YES
Reds starting pitcherRhett Lowder
(3-3, 4.60 ERA)
Yankees starting pitcherCam Schlittler
(7-3, 1.82 ERA)

Reds vs Yankees latest injuries

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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A Look At The Maple Leafs’ Salary Cap Situation Following The Darren Raddysh Signing And What They Target Next


The Toronto Maple Leafs made a big splash by acquiring and signing defenseman Darren Raddysh to an eight-year deal reportedly worth $8.5 million per season. It’s no secret that a top defenseman who can help in all situations was Toronto’s top priority to address this offseason, and acquiring Raddysh certainly helps in that regard. After signing Raddysh, the Leafs have 19 contracts signed with a projected salary cap space of $18,795,951, according to PuckPedia.com.  

That’s plenty of cash remaining to make a big splash, and there could be more if Max Domi isn’t cleared to return to the Leafs when he is examined at training camp following complications that arose from off-season back surgery.

Given where things are going in that regard and John Tavares entering next season at age 35, the Leafs will definitely want to target a top-six centre who can play in difficult matchups, while freeing up someone like Auston Matthews to help turn up his production offensively.

Does someone like a 33-year-old Boone Jenner make sense for the Leafs? Perhaps a better solution comes via a trade. If the Leafs part ways with Morgan Rielly, that $7.5 million plus Domi’s $3.75 million could give Toronto an additional $10.25 million to work with, increasing Toronto’s space to $29,045,951.  

The Leafs have decisions to make on several restricted free agents including Nick Robertson, Mattias Maccelli, and Jaco Quillan. Newly acquired defenseman Emil Andrae is in the same boat. Same with goaltender Sam Ersson. Arbitration awards could be so high that it may not make sense to qualify guys like Robertson or Maccelli with arbitration rights that could set those numbers to be higher than desired. The Leafs have until June 29 at 5 p.m. ET to tender qualifying offers to their restricted free agents. If they are not tendered, they will become unrestricted free agents.  

In the span of four days, the Leafs pulled off a trade with the Philadelphia Flyers, hired a new head coach in Jim Hiller, and now acquired Raddysh. With the NHL Draft set for next week, expect the Leafs to remain busy.

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Blackhawks Don't Have To Take A Defenseman If McKenna, Stenberg, & Malhotra Are All Gone

The Chicago Blackhawks have some options with the 4th overall pick, but it will mostly depend on what the teams ahead of them do. 

Chicago needs forwards more than they need defensemen at both the NHL level and within the pipeline, which begs the question about best player available vs organizational need. 

The truth is, if Gavin McKenna, Ivar Stenberg, and Caleb Malhotra are the first three picks, that doesn't mean that the Blackhawks are forced into taking a defenseman.

If they don't think that one of Chase Reid, Keaton Verhoeff, or Carson Carels is going to be better than Artyom Levshunov or Sam Rinzel, and there is a fourth forward that they really like, they must not hesitate to take the risk. 

Forwards like Viggo Bjorck, Tynan Lawrence, Ethan Belchetz, and Wyatt Cullen are projected to be NHL-caliber forwards in the future, and the Blackhawks need as many of those as they can.

If one of them is at the top of their board, even more than any of the defensemen, there is no shame in that. Kyle Davidson has to do what he feels will make the team better in the long term, even if it goes against popular opinion. 

Of those forwards, Viggo Bjorck and Tynan Lawrence appear to have the highest ceiling. For Bjorck, he shone at the World Juniors and World Championships, which featured other young stars like Ivar Stenberg and Anton Frondell. 

If the Blackhawks ended up with a forward like him, he has the mold of a player who could slot in on a line with his countryman Frondell. The success that they've had with Sweden on the national stage could translate to the NHL. 

As for Lawrence, he had times when he was projected to be a top-three pick in the draft. His time at B.U. showed just how hard the transition to college hockey can be, and he wasn't the only one who dealt with that reality check in 2025-26. 

Chicago also doesn't have to use the 4th overall pick. If those top-three forwards are gone, there is the option of trading the selection. Trading down could still land them one of the other forwards mentioned, plus another asset. 

As with any other team that has selected 4th overall in the past, some decisions must be made depending on what the three teams ahead of them decide. For the Blackhawks this year, positional need could come into play.

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Exclusive Q&A: Flyers GM Danny Briere on Matthew Schaefer's Calder, Top Prospects, and Free Agency

The Philadelphia Flyers and general manager Danny Briere got off to a blazing start to the offseason with their first trade, and the NHL draft and the start of free agency rapidly approach.

With Joseph Woll and Simon Benoit in the fold, the Flyers have already addressed a few immediate needs, and they have a number of prospects still on the way.

In a recent one-on-one with The Hockey News, I had the pleasure of picking Briere's brain, gleaning some insights into the Flyers' plans, how their prospects are coming along, and other odds and ends.

Here, we'll be covering topics like Egor Zavragin, David Jiricek, free agency, Jett Luchanko, former Flyers friends, and more.

Note that some questions and answers in this interview were edited for clarity and brevity.

Jonathan Bailey: "You have Simon Benoit now. You have talked a lot about Hunter McDonald, Ty Murchison, and those guys in the past. Do you think this changed anything for them? Benoit’s got one year on his deal, Seeler’s got a few more, but does that change anything for them now?"

Danny Briere: "You know, the way I see it is, those young guys, they both took a step forward last year. They're going to have to beat someone out of a job, like that's just the reality to make it in the NHL. You have to show that you can beat someone out of their job; that's going to be the challenge for them. So that's always the tough part, you know. Nothing is handed for free. You got to earn it.”

JB: "A few weeks ago, you re-signed Aleksei Kolosov for one year, but his goal was to play in the NHL. Now he’s the No. 3 goalie coming into the year. What's your confidence like in him, because he played pretty well last year?"

DB: "With Aleksei, two years ago, it was kind of a wasted year for him. So spending the year up as a third goalie with the Flyers, it wasn't ideal, and I think it was a little bit of a season that was lost for him last year. He had a good season, stepped back up, so we still see him as a young goalie that's still developing, but he needs more time. We feel it's a good spot for him to be in, as the No. 3. Most likely, there's going to be some injuries along the way, and sometimes he's going to have to play, he’s going to have the chance to play a few games. We don't know how many, and it's kind of the same thing that goes for McDonald and Murchison. You have to beat someone out of the job, so that's going to be the challenge for him."

Exclusive: Flyers GM Daniel Briere On How Joseph Woll Trade With Leafs Came TogetherExclusive: Flyers GM Daniel Briere On How Joseph Woll Trade With Leafs Came TogetherPhiladelphia Flyers GM Daniel Briere shared when they made Joseph Woll a trade target from the Toronto Maple Leafs and how the team plans to use him and Dan Vladar.

JB: "Egor Zavragin is off to a new KHL team, maybe a tandem situation, but probably going to play. How optimistic does that make you now after the way this past year went?"

DB: "Yeah, I mean, it was a little disappointing to see, and there was a time where he, early in the year, had the best stats out of the group of three, and I think it almost felt like it was decided before that he was the youngest and he was going to be the one going to the VHL. So it's unfortunate, but we have no control over what they do now. There's a little bit of hope that he's going to be in the KHL the whole year and play some KHL games next year. I think it's going to be great for his development, and there's no rush, especially now knowing and seeing what we have here. We have a good group of four goalies that are under NHL contracts, and hopefully, we don't have to use all four, but we know it's there. And especially in Kolosov and Bjarnason’s cases, it's good to see them developing and playing some games. I think we're comfortable with where it's at, at the moment."

JB: "Jett Luchanko is turning pro this year. He made the team out of training camp both years he’s been here. Is that the expectation now, or do you want to leave that up to him and see where he's at?"

DB: "It’ll be up to him now. We’ll see. I mean, it's a big summer for Jett. Last year was a tough one, missed a lot of training, and he missed development camp. He came in, and he was still a little dinged up. So it's a big summer for him, but there's also no rush if we don't feel he's quite ready. We have Lehigh Valley that's down the road from here, and he's going to play a lot of minutes there, so I don't see us keeping Jett Luchanko as an extra player as a 13th or 14th forward on the team. If he doesn't fit into the top 12, he's most likely going to be in Lehigh so he can play lots of minutes and lots of responsibilities in every situation."

JB: "David Jiricek, I think he needs waivers. All things considered, pretty good in Lehigh, very productive. Where do you see him now that, especially because you have Benoit, is kind of like the insulator? If Juulsen isn’t coming back, that leaves a spot on the right for him… where do you see him right now?"

DB: “Yeah, like you said, he had a really good stint in Lehigh Valley. He proved that he's ready for the next level. For him, it's gonna be a battle for ice time. It's going to be up to him. Big summer for him. Yeah, he needs waivers. We're aware of that, and he's going to get a good look, and we hope that he's ready for it. We feel he's ready for it, but he's going to have to show it on the ice. We know the offense is there, the big shot is there, the size is there, and that's just for him to round out his game, where he becomes a player that the coaches trust every night."

JB: "Are there any players who definitely are, or definitely are not, coming back this summer?"

DB: "[Rodrigo Abols] will most likely not be back. [Luke Glendening] we still have in the mix. Yeah, there's so many moving parts still, right? We're looking at different things, we're exploring. That's our job, to explore what's out there. Look at trades, you know. Three weeks ago, I would be talking about [Emil Andrae] as a guy who has a chance to find his way into the top six, and it'll be up to him, and now today, he's out. Same thing with [Sam Ersson]. So things changed, things evolved. It's a little too early, right? I don't want to pigeonhole myself and say, ‘Oh, this guy's definitely not coming back’ yet. We're keeping the door open, but it's our duty to look at what's out there, and if there’s an improvement that we can make to help the team."

JB: “Coming into this, I had Sergei Bobrovsky and Claude Giroux written down, two of your old teammates who are now free agents.”

DB: Smiles. "Yeah, it's pretty safe to say that there's not much room for Bob. I still have the feeling that Bob will re-sign in Florida. I don't think they have a goalie signed, so, yeah, they're gonna need a goalie, at least one, maybe two. I mean, Bob's a fantastic teammate, and great work ethic. He would have been a really good example for our guys, but no, I don't know how realistic that would have been."

JB: "Giroux, I assume, the same thing? I'm thinking of Rick Tocchet talking about Luke Glendening, having that veteran right-hand center for matchups, making that connection. You never know?"

DB: "Yeah, you never know where it's at. G's had a really good stint in Ottawa. I'm sure they want to keep him there, so I'm not sure he's thinking about going anywhere else. But I think he's been invested in the Senators for a while now, and they have a pretty good team."

Flyers Trade With Hurricanes Worked Out PerfectlyFlyers Trade With Hurricanes Worked Out PerfectlyThe Philadelphia Flyers were again proven right by making this trade with the Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes.

JB: "Nick Deslauriers, Stanley Cup champion. You guys gave him the chance to go play for a contender, got nothing back, but showed the young guys they’ll be rewarded for being good teammates and working hard. How nice is it to see him actually go do it from your perspective?"

DB: "Yeah, it was pretty cool. Nick, again, what he did for us, protecting some of our young guys the last few years, it's not an easy job, and you don't play a lot, and you sacrifice, and you do extra work. It's a really tough job to do. So, we're thankful for what he did, and I feel it was the right thing to do, to give him a chance to go somewhere and have a shot at the Cup at the time. If you remember, like, we weren't looking too, too good to have a chance to make the playoffs, so yeah, it was pretty cool to watch him lift when it happened a couple nights ago."

JB: "A bit of a personal one, but Matthew Schaefer has special place in the heart for you, and not to talk about other teams' players too much, but is there a personal sense of pride for you to see him win the Calder Trophy, and then on Good Morning America, where they brought it out to surprise him?"

DB: Smiles. "Yeah, I'm not supposed to talk about players on other teams, but there's a special connection there with the family, not just Matthew, but also his brother and his dad. So it was pretty cool to see that, and a surprise on the show. Yeah, there's a little special place for him, obviously. [New York Islanders GM] Mathieu Darche knows that as well, so it's not a secret. Very proud of him. The only thing I don't like about him is that he plays in our division. That makes it tough. But, otherwise, on most nights, I'm happy for the Schaefer family and Matthew, and he’s a special talent to watch play."

Why Islanders No. 1 Pick Matthew Schaefer Chose No. 48Why Islanders No. 1 Pick Matthew Schaefer Chose No. 48On Monday, the <a href="http://thn.com/isles">New York Islanders</a> inked first overall pick <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-islanders/latest-news/islanders-sign-no-1-pick-matthew-schaefer-to-entry-level-deal">Matthew Schaefe</a>r to his three-year entry-level deal as he walked to the Citi Field mound to throw out the inaugural first pitch.

JB: "Anything new on Nikita Grebenkin's injury?"

DB: "No, there's nothing still at this point that we can share. We're still in a holding pattern with him, so I don't have anything to share yet."

JB: "Is he still someone you see, like just the way he plays, his style, his traits, long-term, bottom-six, pushing for that role?

DB: “Yeah, that's what we are hoping for, believing that he can give us. He's just got to get healthy, but yeah, we love his spunk. We love the sandpaper that he brings, great personality, really well-loved, too, in the locker room. So we're just hoping that we can get him to a place where he can provide that feistiness for us every night.”

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James Tibbs III walks it off for the Comets

Feb 23, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman James Tibbs III against the Seattle Mariners during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Several one-run affairs and a blowout loss for the Tower Buzzers made up a day of baseball in the Dodgers’ minor league system.

Player of the day

Sometimes one hit is all you need. Through nine innings, James Tibbs III hadn’t done anything, but then, with one out in the tenth and the Comets trailing 4-3, Tibbs was at the plate with a runner on base and homered to the opposite field for the win.

It hasn’t been the best of months for Tibbs, far from it, as the left-handed hitter now has a .200 average with three home runs in June. On the plus side, he still is getting on base rather consistently with a .362 OBP despite that batting average at the Mendoza line.

Triple-A Oklahoma City

James Tibbs III is now up to 20 homers on the season, none bigger than last night’s two-run shot, which came when the Comets were two outs away from losing the game in the 10th inning. Tibbs drove in Ryan Fitzgerald, who also only had one hit the whole game.

Considering Tibbs’ homer was the Comets’ only extra-base hit in the entire game, and Hyesong Kim was their only hitter with a multi-hit game, the bullpen deserves a ton of praise. Led by Evan Phillips, Comets’ relievers tossed five innings without allowing an earned run after Christian Romero’s solid but unspectacular start. The only run conceded when relievers were on the mound was the ghost runner in the 10th.

Double-A Tulsa

The Drillers started off hot with four runs in the second, but quickly faded in a 6-5 loss against the Naturals. Just like in the Comets game, the whole lineup only had one hitter with a multihit game; here it was catcher and ninth-hole hitter Hayden Gilliland. It also only had one home run, here belonging to Josue De Paula.

Unable to score more than one run after that second inning, the Drillers’ offense allowed the Naturals the chance to get back into this one, and after a couple of blown saves from Lucas Wepf and Kelvin Ramírez, the veteran Nick Robertson suffered his first loss on the year. Robertson now moves to a 6-1 record, allowing only his fourth run (two earned) in 29.2 innings.

High-A Great Lakes

Playing a couple of closely contested games, both decided by a single run, the Loons split the doubleheader with the Captains. The bullpen tried to let their win slip, allowing the Naturals to tie the game at four-all after Aidan Foeller left them leading 4-0 thanks to 4.2 scoreless innings. However, the Loons caught a break, earning a walk-off win thanks to a defensive error from the Naturals, allowing DH Jose Meza to cross the plate.

Christian Zazueta’s five scoreless innings in the Loons loss meant that, combined, the Loons starters tossed 9.2 innings without allowing a run. This time around, reliever Isaac Ayon didn’t have it out of the bullpen, and not only did he blow the save in the sixth, but he also allowed a walk-off loss an inning later, coughing up a solo homer. The two runs the Loons had scored in this game, thanks to Emil Morales and Jose Meza, which looked like enough for most of it, fell short.

Single-A Ontario

Unlike the other four games, all decided by one run, the Tower Buzzers fell at the hands of the Quakes by a score of 11-2 in a game with a forgettable defensive performance. Four different players committed an error for the Loons, ultimately accumulating more defensive errors than hits (.3).

The only reliever out of the five from the Tower Buzzers to not give up a run was the veteran Brock Stewart, continuing to work his way back. Starter Brady Smith is now up to a 0-4 record.

Unable to drive forward a competitive effort by himself, designated hitter Eason Shelton at least upped his individual numbers, responsible for both RBI of his team, now sitting at 62 on the season.

Thursday’s scores

  • Oklahoma City 5, Sacramento 4
  • NW Arkansas 6, Tulsa 5
  • Great Lakes 5, Lake County 4
  • Lake County 3, Great Lakes 2
  • Ontario 2, Rancho Cucamonga 11

Friday’s schedule

  • 4:05 p.m. PT: Great Lakes (Brooks Auger) vs. Lake County (Michael Kennedy)
  • 5:05 p.m. PT: Oklahoma City (Charlie Barnes) vs. Sacramento (Joe Whitman)
  • 5:05 p.m. PT: Tulsa (Roque Gutierrez) at NW Arkansas (Hunter Owen)
  • 6:35 p.m. PT: Ontario (TBA) vs. Rancho Cucamonga (Alton Davis II)