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The Mets’ top 10 draft picks, according to bWAR

New York Mets' Darryl Strawberry (left) and Dwight Gooden watch from the dugout steps as the season comes to an end.

Carson Wiggins. Aiden Robbins. Shane Sdao. You might not remember any of their names in five years, but there’s always a chance one of these newly-drafted Mets could be the next David Wright, or Jacob deGrom, or Pete Alonso, or Pete Crow-Armstrong—well, hopefully not that last one, for the sake of fans’ collective sanity.

It can feel impossible to parse through the projections of power and stuff, the anecdotes about players’ mature mindsets, the nuance of whether the difference between a 60-grade tool or a 65-grade tool actually matters when measured on an already-confusing 20-80 scale for evaluating draftees. It can feel pointless and romantic, especially when players are likely years away from having an impact at the major league level. But if this season has shown any bright spot, it’s that homegrown talent can still be a spark in dark times. Perhaps one of these newest Mets prospects may at least prove to be the next burst of youth on the horizon, if not the next franchise legend.

It’s in the spirit of romantic optimism that we take a journey through memory lane to visit the top 10 players drafted and signed by the Mets, according to bWAR. Note that this criteria includes total career bWAR, not just bWAR as a member of the Mets, and that it excludes players who may have been selected by the Mets but didn’t sign with them. Without further ado, here is the list…

10. PETE ALONSO (25.2 bWAR) – 2016, 2nd round, 64th overall

The Gator was the Mets’ third selection in the 2016 draft, after first-round pitchers Justin Dunn and Anthony Kay. Dunn was traded to the Mariners in the Edwin Díaz deal, while Kay was dealt to the Blue Jays the following summer in a Deadline deal for Marcus Stroman. But Alonso stayed — at least through 2025 — and became a five-time All-Star, two-time Home Run Derby champ, Rookie of the Year, Silver Slugger, and the franchise’s all-time home run leader with a total of 264.

9. BRANDON NIMMO (27.7 bWAR) – 2011, 1st round, 13th overall

Sandy Alderson kicked off his tenure as the Mets’ general manager with a big swing, selecting an 18-year-old from Wyoming with his first draft pick. Five years later, Nimmo made his big-league debut, and ten years after that he remains a valuable player as a veteran with the Rangers. Nimmo is one of just three players since 2000 to play a decade in orange and blue, along with fellow homegrown Mets David Wright and José Reyes. Nimmo is also the all-time leader in games played, home runs, runs, RBI, and walks among players born in Wyoming.

8. A.J. BURNETT (28.8 bWAR) – 1995, 8th round, 217th overall

Burnett never actually played for the Mets, as he was traded to the Marlins in the Al Leiter deal as a minor leaguer in 1998. Burnett went on to have a 17-year career, earning just one All-Star selection which came during his 17th season in 2015. His 164 career wins rank fourth among eighth-rounders, behind Charlie Hough (216), Tim Wakefield (200), and Derek Lowe (176). But Burnett is certainly not the most infamous Mets draft pick to have been traded early in a decorated career (more on that later in the list). The only other pitchers the Mets have selected in the eighth round who made it to the big leagues are Tylor Megill, who was taken in the 2018 draft, and Mike Vasil — the White Sox’ magic man who was originally selected by the Mets in 2021.

7. JON MATLACK (39.4 bWAR) – 1967, 1st round, 4th overall

The most productive left-handed-pitcher drafted and signed by the Mets according to bWAR, Matlack earned three All-Star selections and a Rookie of the Year Award during his seven seasons in New York. In the 1973 postseason, he tossed 25 consecutive innings without allowing an earned run (Weaver-esque) while allowing just eight hits before eventually taking the loss in Game 7 of the World Series. The following season, Matlack put up a 2.41 ERA in 265.1 innings of work, good for a 9.1 bWAR — fifth-most in a season by any Mets pitcher.

6. DARRYL STRAWBERRY (42.2 bWAR) – 1980, 1st round, 1st overall

The Mets have made five No. 1 overall picks in the draft: Steven Chilcott (1966), Tim Foli (1968), Strawberry, Shawn Abner (1984), and Paul Wilson (1994). Chilcott didn’t make the majors. Abner was traded after ’86 in the Kevin McReynolds deal, and ended his career with a negative bWAR. Wilson played one season with the Mets and Foli enjoyed a 16-year big league career, but only Strawberry became a legitimate star. His numbers rank among the best for first-overall picks, with 335 homers (seventh), 221 steals (third), and 1,000 RBI (11th).

5. LENNY DYKSTRA (42.4 bWAR) – 1981, 13th round, 315th overall

Only four 13th-round picks in the history of the draft have more bWAR than Dykstra: Albert Pujols, Jim Thome, Jack Clark, and Steve Finley. He is also one of only three Mets draftees in the 13th-round to record 20+ bWAR, all of whom were left-handed hitters: Dykstra, Darin Erstad (not signed), and Daniel Murphy. It’s possible Alonso or Nimmo surpass Dykstra’s career bWAR total, but as of now, Nails is the second-most valuable position player drafted and signed by the Mets behind…

4. DAVID WRIGHT (49.1 bWAR) – 2001, 1st round, 38th overall

The Mets received a compensatory pick when Mike Hampton departed in free agency following the 2000 season. They made the most of it. Wright is the franchise leader in hits (1,777), runs (949), and RBI (970), and likely the team’s last captain for quite some time. But Wright was actually the Mets’ second pick of the 2001 draft, as right-handed reliever Aaron Heilman was taken 18th overall. It’s safe to say the Mets buried the lede on that one.

3. JACOB DEGROM (49.9 bWAR) – 2010, 9th round, 272nd overall

Originally a shortstop in college, deGrom was never a big-name pitching prospect. He was taken in the ninth round, he underwent Tommy John surgery in the minors, and when he arrived in the majors as a 25-year-old he wasn’t even the most anticipated Mets pitcher to debut that series (recall Rafael Montero). But deGrom made the most of that ninth-round selection, as his 49.9 career bWAR trails only Hall of Famer Fred McGriff among ninth-rounders. Oddly enough, the only other pitcher since 2018 with back-to-back Cy Young Awards was a fellow ninth-round pick: the Tigers’ Tarik Skubal.

2. DWIGHT GOODEN (53.0 bWAR) – 1982, 1st round, 5th overall

It’s hard to hit as resounding a ‘home run’ with two first-round draft picks as the Mets did in the early ’80s with Doc and Darryl. Gooden has the fourth-most pitching bWAR of any pitcher taken within the first five overall picks, behind Justin Verlander (82.3), Kevin Brown (68.2), and Chuck Finley (58.3). He also has the most bWAR of any Mets first-rounder, and the most bWAR as a Metof any pitcher the franchise has drafted. I specify “as a Met”because, well…

1. NOLAN RYAN (81.3 bWAR) – 1965, 12th round, 295th overall

Taken two rounds after the Dodgers selected Tom Seaver in the 1965 draft, 18-year-old Nolan Ryan would become by far the most productive 12th-round pick in draft history, putting up more than three times the bWAR of center fielder Bill North with 26.8 in second-place. Only 3.0 bWAR came with the Mets between the 1966-71, before he was traded to the Angels in a package for Jim Fregosi. Ryan is the only Hall of Famer the Mets have ever selected and signed in the draft. 16 years later, in the 1981 Draft, the Mets selected another pitcher in the 12th round who would end up blowing past Ryan’s career bWAR total. But as history would have it, Roger Clemens remained unsigned until he was taken in the first round by the Red Sox two years later.

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Braves Minor League Recap: Tate Southisene breaks out, Rowdy Tellez continues homer streak

TAMPA, FL - MARCH 21: Tate Southisene #19 of the Atlanta Braves runs to first during the game between the Atlanta Braves and the New York Yankees at George M. Steinbrenner Field on Saturday, March 21, 2026 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

(54-39) Memphis Redbirds 2, (46-45) Gwinnett Stripers 7

  • Patrick Clohisy, CF: 4-for-5, RBI, R, SB, .275/.356/.465
  • Rowdy Tellez, 1B: 2-for-3, HR, 3 RBI, 2 BB, R, .265/.376/.510
  • Cal Conley, 2B: 2-for-2, HR, 2 R, 3 RBI, BB, .278/.326/.443
  • Drue Hackenberg, SP: 5IP 1H 1ER 2BB 4K, 4.88 ERA
  • Connor Thomas, RP: 1IP 0H 0R 0BB 2K, 1.09 ERA

Box Score

The Stripers extended their winning streak to four games after a well fought game featuring strong pitching and the long ball. Let’s take a look at how the Stripers got it done.

Drue Hackenberg got the start and was extremely strong – allowing just a single hit over five innings of work. His one blemish came in the fourth inning when Hackenberg allowed back-to-back walks before allowing a sacrifice fly to score. Outside of that, Drue was completely in control. Drue featured his two-seam, four-seam, curveball, changeup, while sprinkling in his cutter. After a rough 2025, Drue hasn’t allowed more than four earned runs in a single start and has done a great job of re-establishing his value in the Braves pitching depth chart. After five strong innings the Stripers turned to Elieser Hernández (2IP 0H 0R 0BB 3K) who was just as strong – getting through two perfect innings as he leaned heavily on his four-seam and cutter. Following Elieser was Connor Thomas who was also absolutely fantastic as he absolutely pounded the zone with 9 strikes on 10 pitches while recording two strikeouts. Closing out the game, with the game pretty firmly in hand, was Anthony Molina (1IP 2H 1ER 0BB 1K) who allowed a run to score while inducing a double play.

Offensively, the recipe for success was a lot like the last game as Patrick Clohisy and Rowdy Tellez continued to show out. Fast forwarding to the fourth inning, the Stripers found themselves down 1-0, before loading the bases when Patrick Clohisy tied the game with an RBI single. Two batters later Rowdy Tellez drove in two with a two RBI single. One inning later, Cal Conley connected on his second home run of the seasons driving in Aaron Schunk and DaShawn Keirsey Jr., extending the Stripers lead to 6-1. One inning later it was once again Rowdy Tellez who drove in the last run of the game for the Stripers with this absolute bomb of a home run coming in at 110.4 MPH and going 430’ – extending his streak to three straight games with a home run.

(32-55) Birmingham Barons 4, (40-42) Columbus Clingstones 7

  • Jordan Groshans, 3B: 2-for-4, HR, 2 RBI, 2 R, .266/.345/.549
  • Archer Brookman, C: 1-for-3, HR, 2 RBI, R, .248/.344/.400
  • Luke Waddell, SS: 1-for-3, 2 R, RBI, .208/.314/.321
  • Cedric de Grandpre, SP: 6IP 3H 1ER 0BB 7K, 4.12 ERA
  • Luis Vargas, RP: 1.2IP 0H 0R 1BB 3K, 4.65 ERA

Box Score

The suddenly surging Columbus Clingstones picked up their seventh win in their last 10 games with another strong starting pitching performance, and timely hitting.

Cedric de Grandpre got the start for the Clingstones and was absolutely dynamic – striking out seven across six innings of work. Cedric continued to utilize his four-seam/two-seam/cutter fastball repertoire to great success as he never really ran into much trouble in the start. His only blemish cam in the third inning when he allowed a run scoring single with two outs. After that, Cedric would retire the next ten hitters to get the Clingstones through six innings. He would be replaced by Braden Scott (0.1IP 4H 3ER 0BB 1K), making his Clingstones debut, and he struggled – allowing back-to-back singles before eventually surrendering a three run home run and another single. He would be replaced by Luis Vargas (1.2IP 0H 0R 1BB 3K) who was the opposite, immediately retiring the first two batters he saw to end the threat, before striking out the side in his next inning of work. Isaac Gallegos (1IP 0H 0R 0BB 1K) picked up his first save of the season for the Clingstones with a perfect ninth.

Offensively, it was Jordan Groshans who got the fun started for the Clingstones very early on – hitting a two run home run in the first.

This was Jordan’s 17th home run of the season which has been one of the best of his career, and has been an absolutely fantastic signing for the organization. Logan Braunschweig would drive in the third run of the game for the Clingstones in the fourth inning with an RBI single that drove in Will Verdung to extend the Clingstones lead to 3-1. They would tack on an additional three runs in the fifth inning highlighted by an Archer Brookman two run home run. The final run of the game for the Clingstones came in the seventh inning with a Drew Compton RBI single that drove in Luke Waddell.

As a team the Clingstones went 2-for-8 with runners in scoring position, stranding seven on base.

(42-42) Rome Emperors 7, (41-44) Hudson Valley Renegades 4

  • Tate Southisene, SS: 3-for-5, 3B, 2 RBI, 2 R, .234/.375/.423
  • Eric Hartman, CF: 1-for-4, 2B, RBI, .281/.359/.543
  • Owen Carey, LF: 2-for-5, 2B, 3 RBI, R, .259/.327/.456
  • Dallas Macias, RF: 1-for-2, RBI, R, 2 BB, .156/.200/.469
  • Aiven Cabral, SP: 5IP 2H 0R 0BB 5K, 0.67 ERA

Box Score

The Aiven Cabral show continued, while Tate Southisene got it going offensively in a thrilling victory for the Rome Emperors.

Cabral did what he has done all year, absolutely pounding the zone with his pitch mix and allowing just two hits across five innings, while striking out five. Outside of a third inning double Aiven was in complete control of the game. He was efficient as he needed just 63 pitches to get through his outing. On the season Aiven has now made 15 appearances across two levels, and his ERA is now a ridiculous 1.88 on the season, with a WHIP of 0.99. Even without a standout pitch, he lives in the zone and induces a ton of weak contact with all three of his pitches. He was replaced by Tyler Schoff (1.1IP 3H 4ER 3BB 0K) who struggled in his fourth appearance for the Emperors. Brody Fowler (1.2IP 0H 0R 2BB 4K) , the Braves 17th round pick from 2025, had one of his best outings of his careers – striking out four across 1.2 innings of work. Justin Long (1IP 0H 0R 0BB 1K) picked up his third save of the season with a perfect inning of work.

The fun got started early for the Emperors as John Gil walked, and stole his 38th base of the season, before Owen Carey connected on his sixth home run of the season – giving the Emperors a 2-0 lead.

They would be held scoreless until the seventh inning when Dallas Macias drove in Dixon Williams to push the Emperors lead to two runs, at 3-1. One inning later, the Emperors found themselves down and it was once again Owen Carey that came up with the big hit – this time a run scoring single that drove in Tate Southisene, to tie the game at 4-4. One inning later it was Tate Southisene’s time to shine as he drove in two on his second triple since joining the Rome Emperors.

After John Gil struck out, Eric Hartman drove in Tate on a laser double to right field to extend the lead to 7-4.

(49-36) Hickory Crawdads 7, (48-39) Augusta GreenJackets 0

  • Tanner Smith, C: 1-for-3, BB, .258/.324/.495
  • Juan Mateo, 2B: 1-for-4, .261/.333/.353
  • Luis Guanipa, CF: 0-for-4, .303/.360/.459
  • Conor Essenburg, RF: 1-for-3, BB, .254/.398/.457
  • Kendy Richard, SP: 4IP 4H 3ER 1BB 2K, 6.36 ERA

Box Score

The GreenJackets fell, running into the buzzsaw that is Evan Siary, in a shutout loss to the Crawdads.

Kendy Richard got the start for the GreenJackets and was OK, allowing three earned runs across four innings of work while giving up a pair of home runs. Kendy has an up-and-down season, finding more success coming out of the bullpen, but overall did enough to keep the GreenJackets in the game. He was replaced by Luis Arestigueta (3.2IP 3H 3ER 2BB 0K) who has had a very odd 2026. After having strong success to start his career, Luis has found himself moving between Augusta and the FCL Braves as he’s struggled to generate whiffs and consistently find the zone. To his credit, Luis did allow just three earned runs while providing some length so it was a step in the right direction but it still has been a rough 2026 in a year he had some loftier expectations. Cristobal Abreu (1.1IP 2H 1ER 0BB 1K) worked the final stretch of the game and allowed one earned run over his inning+ of work.

Offensively it was a complete struggle as the GreenJackets had just two opportunities with runners in scoring position the entire game, to which they unfortunately went 0-for-2. The top four of the lineup (Guanipa, Essenburg, Lodise, Miller) went a combined 0-for-15, with Essenburg drawing a walk, but the totality of the group striking out seven times. The pitching hero from two games ago, shortstop Joe Olsavsky, was the only hitter to not strike out, as he and Tanner Smith were the only two players to reach base twice.

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Legends at the Astrodome: 1986 All Star Game: Dale Murphy

SAN DIEGO, CA - CIRCA 1982: Dale Murphy #3 of the Atlanta Braves bats against the San Diego Padres during an Major League Baseball game circa 1982 at Jack Murphy Stadium in San Diego, California. Murphy played for the Braves from 1976-90. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images) | Getty Images

With All-Star festivities kicking into high gear, we continue our series featuring 2x MVP Dale Murphy.  Murphy would play 15 seasons for the Braves, with half of those resulting in All-Star Game selections.     

In the 80’s only one player hit more home runs than Dale, that being Mike Schmidt.    Dale Murphy joins us exclusively at The Crawfish Boxes.    

Q:  It was almost a given back in that era that you’d be selected by the fans.  You appeared in 7 All Star games in the 1980’s.  What do you remember about that 1986 game?

A:  What’s funny is that for that particular year and game at the Astrodome, my stats weren’t really that good so I kind of felt weird about starting that game.     But you mentioned the fans, they voted me in as a starter.  It was always an honor.    

Q:  You got to face Roger Clemens, who was appearing in his first All-Star Game and was in the zone.  What do you remember about that confrontation? 

A:  I only saw one pitch from Clemens as I remember, and I grounded out to short.     I had two at bats that night, and then Chili Davis came in for me.  

My second at bat was against Higuera.  I actually told Whitey Herzog that I was good with just the one at bat, but he kept me in.   

Q:  Historically though, you had some big games in the Dome.  That night was the exception to the rule.  Did you like playing at the Astrodome?

A:       I’m not sure I could say I ever fully enjoyed playing in the Astrodome though (laughs).    Playing there was always tough and it was a credit to those Astros teams.    Facing the likes of Nolan, Scott and J.R. it didn’t get tougher than that in the mid-eighties.  

Plus, the dome had a problem with the ceiling.    If you weren’t careful, it would be hard to pick up a fly ball in the outfield.    

Q:  What was the coolest thing about that night?    

A:  Far and away getting to meet at the time Vice President Bush before the game.   He came through the club house and all of us had a chance to speak to him.  That was really special.    

Q:  What’s life like for you now?

A:  I’m no longer chasing fly balls; I’m chasing down my grandkids here in Atlanta.    (laughs)

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Astros Make Sixteen Selections on Day Two

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 11: MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred speaks on stage during the 2026 MLB Draft at Pennsylvania Convention Center on July 11, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) | Getty Images

On Day Two of the draft, the Astros made sixteen selections. Below is some information on the picks.

You can see all the picks here: https://www.mlb.com/draft/tracker

On Day Two of the draft, the Astros made sixteen selections. They started the day going back to back to back pitchers in the 5th, 6th and 7th rounds. Gavin Eddy was the Astros 5th rounder and he had a 2.87 ERA this season for Cal while pumping mid 90s heaters and a strong breaking ball. In the 6th they took Michael Addari out of Illinois State. He posted a 2.27 ERA with 73 K over 67.1 innings. The 7th round selection was Bryan Carney out of University of Olivet. He was dominant there posting a 1.35 ERA with 122 strikeouts over 73.1 innings. The thing that stood out about all three of these selections is all of them were at least 6-5 and had above average extension, a trait the Astros clearly value.

The Astros went with a couple of position players with their next picks selecting Aaron Piasecki in the 8th and Ryan Pruitt in the 9th. Piasecki was great for Troy hitting .337 with 10 home runs and elite contact rates. Pruitt, out of South Florida, appears to be another prospects with speed and contact skills. They ended the first half of the draft getting right-hander Taz Butler out of Kansas State.

In the 11th round, the Astros took a swing on a junior college pitcher Peyton Fiene out of Odessa Junior College. He has a big time arm touching 96 mph while also adding three solid off-speed pitches. He is only 20 years old and has a huge ceiling. In the 12th they got an outfielder in Owen Nowak, who was dominant for Middle Tennessee State hitting .316 with a ridiculous 36 walks to just 11 strikeouts over 57 games.

The Astros took a big swing in the 13th round selecting shortstop Jack Beck out of Columbia Central HS in Tennessee. He had a breakout combine where he showed off his plus raw power connecting on 21 balls over 100 mph (113 mph max) and hitting the longest home run at 466 feet. He has huge upside. In the 14th round they took a right-hander in Brady Thomas who is 6-5 and hit and pitched for Jacksonville State.

They took another top prep prospect in the 15th in James Tronstein who also possesses excellent tools, though he might be a fall back option in case the other don’t sign as he has a strong commitment to Vanderbilt. The Astros took their first catcher in the 16th round, though he played right field too, in Rashawn Galloway. He has some monster pope and had a nice season for Texas State hitting .318 with 27 doubles and 12 home runs for the Bobcats. In the 17th they selected Ben Tyron from Dallas Baptist, another infielder with good walk to strikeout ratio and some sneaky pop.

The Astros continued their run on position players taking Petey Soto in the 18th round out of Utah Tech. Soto is a slick defender who hit .347 with 6 home runs and 13 stolen bases over 59 games. They took another catcher in the 19th in Noah Miller out of Michigan. His playing time was sparse but he was a big time prospect coming out of high school. They concluded their draft selecting Mick Uebelhor out of Western Kentucky. He pitched in relief in college and struck out 59 batters over 44.2 innings while posting a 3.43 ERA.

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Padres Bradgley Rodriguez is gaining Stammen’s trust

San Diego Padres reliever Bradgley Rodriguez (Photo by Meg McLaughlin / The San Diego Union-Tribune via Getty Images)

When Jason Adam went down with a right shoulder strain, it left the Friar Faithful wondering what else could go wrong for the San Diego Padres. No team can afford to lose a key setup reliever and expect to play winning baseball. 

Everyone began speculating about the team’s next move to replace a valuable member in the bullpen. The Padres did not turn to a veteran reliever; instead, they called up Bradgley Rodriguez. He provided early-season depth options for a team with issues in its starting rotation.

Rodriguez was an early-season success

Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove open the season on the Injured List. It was apparent the team’s rotation depth would be challenged in 2026. The back end of the bullpen would play a role in bridging the gap between a starting pitcher’s struggles to preserve a lead and the use of baseball’s premier relievers. 

Rodriguez was ticketed for this bullpen role after having an outstanding spring training. Quickly, he showed his versatility, as Rodriguez was used as an opener on a bulk-pitching day. Also, he opened some eyes by throwing multiple innings to limit the damage after another poor start from the rotation.

However, the organization viewed Rodriguez as an option for an expanded bullpen role. They sent him back to Triple-A to become a complete pitcher.

Rediscovering his pitching repertoire

Rodriguez worked on finding a good mix among his changeup, heavy sinker, and four-seamer. It has allowed him to rediscover his entire pitching repertoire. He posted a 3.14 ERA across 14.1 innings pitched in 15 appearances before his promotion back to the majors. 

He throws his changeup at 41.4%, his sinker at 26.8%, and the four-seamer at 23.2%. His repertoire keeps the hitters guessing, as Rodriguez throws his changeup in the low 90s. Often, they’re looking for a four-seamer coming in the high 90s. Instead, they hit on top of the ball for a groundout.

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Rodriguez has done an excellent job of avoiding hard contact in his rookie season. He has given up only one home run in 39.0 innings pitched, as his hard-hit percentage (30.6%) is well below the league average (40.4%) this season. Opposing teams are hitting .202 against him.

Rodriguez has gained Stammen’s trust

Since his call-up, Padres manager Craig Stammen began using Rodriguez in the middle innings before bringing him in the seventh inning with multiple runners on base. He passed those high-leverage situations with flying colors. It won’t be long before Stammen uses Rodriguez in the setup role for closer Mason Miller.

The lone question remaining is whether his performance level is sustainable. Rodriguez is a rookie who has registered 39.0 innings pitched this season. His career minor league high mark is 46.2 innings pitched, so the Friars will need to monitor his usage in the second half. 

However, no one will complain if he continues to have strong outings. 

In an otherwise forgettable season, the emergence of Rodriguez as a quality setup reliever could be the highlight of the 2026 campaign. 

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How much will it take to sign Tarik Skubal?

DETROIT, MI - JULY 07: Tarik Skubal #29 and Dillon Dingler #13 of the Detroit Tigers walk on the field prior to the game between the Athletics and the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Zack Belsky/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

Tarik Skubal is not going to sign a multi year contract extension with the Detroit Tigers from a purely financial standpoint. Even if he’d had interest the time for that was sometime in the past two offseasons, and frankly neither party expressed any real interest in doing so. As the reigning two time Cy Young winner, “the best pitcher in baseball”, and a free agent after the 2026 season. Skubal is in a position to command both the highest dollar value and the highest average annual salary that any pitcher, has ever received, probably $350 million or more as we demonstrate below.

To figure out how much it would take to sign Skubal to a multi year contract, just skip directly to the top of the list of pitchers’ salaries all time. Look at total dollars and average annual salary (AAV).

While there are no pitchers among the list of MLB’s ten highest total contracts, the most money given to a pitcher is the Dodgers’ Yoshinobu Yamomoto, who signed a contract for $325 million to be paid over 12 seasons, 2024 through 2035. The Dodgers also paid a posting fee of more than $50 million to NPB, the Japanese professional baseball league. 

Following is a short list of the ten highest total value contracts given to pitchers in MLB history:

PLAYERTOTAL $$TERMTEAMLENGTHAAV
Yamomoto325,000,0002024- 2035Dodgers12 yrs27.08M
Cole324,000,0002020- 2028Yankees9 yrs36.0 M
Strasburg245,000,0002020- 2026Nationals7 yrs35 M
Fried218,000,0002025- 2032Yankees8 yrs27.25 M
Price217,000,0002016- 2022Red Sox7 yrs31.0 M
Kershaw215,000,0002014- 2020Dodgers7 yrs30.7 M
Scherzer210,000,0002015- 2021Nationals7 yrs30.0 M
Burnes210,000,0002025- 2030Arizona6 yrs35 M
Greinke206,500,0002016- 2021Arizona6 yrs34.4 M
deGrom185,000,0002023- 2027Rangers5 yrs37.0 M

Only two pitchers in MLB history have signed contracts with a total value more than $250 million. (We’re excluding Shohei Ohtani who is much, much more than a pitcher.

Only three pitchers have signed contracts with a total value more than $218 million. Only one of them in the past five seasons, and his salary is spread out over twelve seasons.

Still, Tarik Skubal is expected to command a total value contract that will push the highest numbers ever paid to a pitcher.

While Yamomoto holds the record for the highest total salary, his AAV ranks 51st all time among players in MLB and 15th among pitchers, because it’s averaged over 12 seasons. Whether he will actually pitch 12 seasons remains to be seen.

Following is a chart showing the ten highest average annual value contracts (AAV’s) paid to pitchers in MLB history.

PLAYERAAV SALARYTERMTEAMTOTAL
Ohtani$46,081,4762024-2033Dodgers460 M*
Scherzer43,333,3332022- 2024Mets130 M
Verlander43,333,3332023-2024Mets86.67 M
Wheeler42,000,0002024- 2027Phillies168 M
Framber Valdez38.333,3332026- 2028Tigers115 M
deGrom37,000,0002023- 2027Rangers185 M
Snell36,400,0002024- 2029Dodgers218.4 M
Cole36,000,0002020- 2028Yankees324 M
Strasburg35,000,0002020- 2026Nationals245 M
Burnes35,000,0002025- 2030Arizona210 M
Bauer34,000,0002021- 2023Dodgers102 M

Shohei Ohtani tops the list once again, but we’re going to discount his contract since he was signed primarily as a hitter who can also pitch. Yes, he’s a very good pitcher, too. Ohtani’s total value is adjusted here for deferred salary.

The highest average annual value paid to pitcher(s) was given to two former Tigers, Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander, who received $43,333, 333 salaries. Scherzer signed a three year deal and Verlander two years both with the Mets. The Philadelphia Phillies paid Zack Wheeler $42 million apiece for four seasons. Next on the list, at No 10 overall is Framber Valdez at $38.5 million, on a potential four year contract though the final two years are a player option in 2028 for Valdez, and a mutual option for 2029.

The only contracts that topped $40 million were for two to four seasons, excluding Ohtani. Skubal figures to change that as well.

There is only one contract among those 34M or more with a total value above 245 million, and that is the Yankees’ Gerrit Cole. The next highest is the Nationals’ Steven Strasburg at 35M for 7 years. Both of these deals were signed in 2020. Skubal promises to top both the highest AAV and the total dollar value for a free agent pitcher.

Skubal’s contract as a free agent, and therefore any contract he would sign before becoming a free agent, could threaten to break the AAV record, but only if it turned out to be a relatively short term contract. Think more like 8- 10 seasons at an annual salary above $43.33 million. Not that he is expected to pitch ten more healthy seasons, although he might, but teams like to spread out the term of contracts, assuming the long term risks while deferring salary. The Dodgers have made a policy of long-term deferred money, and with a new CBA coming, the brief window of free agency before an impending lockout might be their last big bite at the deferral apple. For some teams, that could also mean avoiding tax consequences through deferred money as well.

THE COST TO RESIGN SKUBAL

Start at 8 years x 43.333 + or about $350 million. Agent Scott Boras was reortedly dialed in on a $400 million contract, but that was before he needed surgery to remove bone chips earlier this season. $350 million is just the starting point if the Tigers were to make an offer.

REASONS TO STAY IN DETROIT

Skubal has little to gain by signing an extension with the Tigers unless the contract will pay him similar to what he would receive as a free agent one season later.  There are a couple of perks in staying with Detroit, though.

  • In order to reach free agency, he must survive the season and remain healthy. A serious injury could derail his plans and significantly lower expectations for a free agent contract.
  • Commissioner Manfred and MLB owners are poised to shut down the game just as Skubal is set to hit free agency, in their never ending quest for a salary cap, which they know very well the players will never agree to.  If it plays out like the last lockout, there will be a signing freeze for  much of the winter and into the 2027 season.
  • In a related matter, Manfred has suggested that the owners could be looking for an individual salary cap that would affect only the very highest paid players. Presumably, there would have to be some offset at the lower end of the pay scale to get players to accept such a deal. MLB’s initial proposal to the players is that free agent contracts would be limited to five years for players changing teams and six years to remain with their current team. Any new rules may be phased in after a year or so.
  • Skubal is familiar with Detroit and the Tigers’ organization. Whether there is enough warmth to tilt the talks in favor of staying with the club is another question. Maybe even enough to break a tie?  So far, all signs point to him testing the market.

On the flip side of the coin, the biggest contracts result from a bidding war between the games billionaire owners, each wanting to “win” the contract battle. Skubal’s agent, Scott Boras, very rarely signs extensions that deprive his clients of the free agent experience.  His modus operandi is to create leverage in competitive bidding between clubs, not being shy to let owners know – often directly through the media — that they’re being out bid by other owners. He has negotiated some of the richest contracts in sports history.

SERVICE TIME

The highest salary given to a pitcher with five plus seasons of service time was the Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw, who signed a seven year contract worth $215 million to stay in Los Angeles. After that, Luis Castillo signed a five year contract worth $108 million, an AAV of 21.6 M with Seattle.

Skubal himself has the record for the highest arbitration award at $32 million and that is also the highest AAV given to any pitcher prior to free agency.

There aren’t examples of pitchers signing extensions with just one season left before free agency, or at least not in the range of Skubal’s expectations. Again, no surprise here. He’s going to test free agency.

IF THE TIGERS KEEP SKUBAL

If the Tigers don’t trade Skubal and they are unable to sign him to an extension, they would surely make a qualifying offer in November, still under the terms of the current Collective Bargaining Agreement, which projects to be about $22 million, and he would decline that offer and opt for free agency. Once he signs a contract with a total value of more than $50 million, the Tigers would receive a compensatory draft pick after the first round. So add up the value of Detroit having Skubal for the playoff run and the playoffs, plus the supplemental first round pick, for the Tigers to consider a trade.

THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM

There is one critical factor that needs to be addressed, and everyone knows what it is. Pitchers get injured. The highest paid pitchers notoriously seem to wind up getting injured. So when a club signs a player for 8 years or 10 years, they pretty much know that they’re not going to get 8 to 10 healthy seasons of performance. And yet, pitching is what wins championships. Of course, it takes hitting as well, but the quest for front line starting pitching is a feature of every contender, in every off season, and again at every trade deadline.

  • Gerrit Cole has made 125 starts as a Yankee, but missed the entire 2025 season with Tommy John surgery and returned in May, 2026 after missing 569 days.
  • Steven Strasburg made just 8 starts for the Nationals since signing his $245 million contract
  • David Price averaged 24.5 starts for the Red Sox in the first four seasons of his seven year contract, but then just 11 starts in the final three seasons since he was traded to the Dodgers, mainly as a salary dump for LA to get Mookie Betts.
  • Corbin Burnes made just 11 starts in his first season of a $210M contract with Arizona
  • Jacob deGrom made just 9 starts total in his first two seasons of a four year contract with Texas. He made 30 starts in 2025 as he now enters the final year of the deal at age 38.
  • That’s five of the ten biggest contracts. Others on the list have been healthy and mostly productive, but the risk of injuries with pitchers looms large. A small to mid market club could be wiped out with such a large contract on the books and getting no value on the field.

The Tigers gave the 10th largest contract by average salary to Framber Valdez at 38.5 million per season, but that was for just three seasons. The salary is obviously not a deterrent, but the number of seasons at such a high salary is just too rich for them. That is something we could only speculate, but as they didn’t make any aggressive push for an extension, there’s no reason to expect anything but Skubal and Boras testing the free agent market and establishing a new bar for top pitching contracts. Depending on how the CBA negotations turn out, the new ruleset, with a proposed hard cap and floor involved, that bar may never be approached again, but it’s still hard to believe that the players’ union will ever agree to a hard salary cap.

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Derek Fisher breaks down Lakers fans love-hate relationship with LeBron James in exclusive interview

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows LeBron James in a white Lakers jersey with purple and yellow accents, looking up and to the right, Image 2 shows Derek Fisher and Kobe Bryant on the court, both wearing yellow and purple Lakers jerseys, Image 3 shows Derek Fisher smiling in a blue suit at a Lakers game

Laker legend Derek Fisher believes LeBron James wasn’t as beloved by the franchise’s fans as he should’ve been. 

“It’s hard to tell fans exactly what they should or shouldn’t do,” Fisher told the California Post. “I just think the celebration of his departure is a little bit much. I don’t know what the expectations were, short of winning multiple championships, which no NBA team has done since 2018 basically other than the Warriors.”

Lakers legend Derek Fisher revealed why he believes LeBron James wasn’t as beloved as other Lakers legends. NBAE via Getty Images

James joined the Lakers as a free agent in 2018 after winning two championships with the Heat (2012 and 2013) and one with the Cavaliers (2016). He helped dig the Lakers out of their lowest point in franchise history after they missed the playoffs six straight seasons, leading them to their first championship in a decade in 2020 in just his second season with the team. 

When the 41-year-old James decided to leave the Lakers earlier this month after eight seasons, his longest consecutive stretch with any franchise over his 23-season career, Fisher was taken aback by the reaction from Lakers fans, which he deemed as “celebrating.”

“I don’t know what he was supposed to fulfill that he didn’t fulfill,” Fisher told The Post. “He took us to the playoffs [six] seasons, an NBA title, a trip to the Western Conference Finals in 2023, the relevance, national television. The brand didn’t suffer. The Lakers are still world famous for great reasons. So, that part is a little confusing to me.”

Fisher believes James was never fully embraced like other Lakers legends such as Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson. Noah K. Murray-NY Post

As for why there’s an apparent disconnect between James and Laker fans?

Fisher believes it’s because the superstar is being unfairly compared to franchise legends, such as Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson, who each won five championships with the Lakers and spent their entire careers (20 seasons and 13 seasons, respectively) with the team.

James never belonged to the Lakers in the same way.

He didn’t grow up in the organization. He spent the first 15 seasons of his career in the Eastern Conference. He was already considered one of the greatest players of all-time when he joined the Lakers at age 33.

“He’s not supposed to be compared to Kobe,” Fisher told The Post. “He’s not supposed to be compared to Magic. Those are very different guys that started their careers here and ended their careers here. It’s apples to oranges as far as that part goes. I just think that considering where the organization was when he arrived, I just think we should be more appreciative.”

Fisher, who played with Bryant, believes that James wasn’t viewed in the same light as Bryant and Johnson because he wasn’t in Los Angeles to start his career. Getty Images

Things began shifting for James after the Lakers acquired Luka Doncic in a blockbuster trade in February 2025. Doncic immediately became the Lakers’ top priority.

When asked whether Fisher believes the Lakers’ organization treated James with the respect he deserves, he shrugged.

“I’m not sure,” Fisher told The Post.  “We don’t know whether he actually was actually frustrated by anything or, you know, [he thought] I’ve been here eight seasons, it’s been a great run. There’s now a new franchise player here the team wants to build around, so I’m going to go do something else. We don’t have to attach any other narratives or reasons to it.

“…I don’t necessarily think it was this negative falling out kind of thing. I just think sometimes your time is up and you can move on.”

Fisher played for the Lakers 13 seasons, winning five championships. Getty Images

James, who’s an unrestricted free agent, is still deciding where he’s going to play next season, but the frontrunners are Cleveland, Miami, Golden State, Philadelphia and Minnesota. 

Fisher didn’t hesitate when asked where he hopes James chooses. 

“Personally as a basketball fan, I want to see him and Steph [Curry] play basketball together for a whole season [on the Warriors],” Fisher told The Post. “I just want to see it. I don’t know if it’s even possible. But I just think they’d both enjoy what they’d create and do for each other. And then I think with Draymond [Green] and Al Horford, they’d just have a team for the guys that just drink wine and have fun.

“Whether they win 60 games, 40 games, who cares. I think it would just be a fun basketball team to watch.”

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Utah Jazz vs Chicago Bulls preview: Raising the white flag

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - JULY 7: Blake Hinson #25 and Justin Harmon #44 of the Utah Jazz look on during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the 2026 NBA Salt Lake City Summer League on July 7, 2026 at Jon M. Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Jazz, in fact, did not get to see Darryn Peterson and the Jazz come out with a dominant second game in Las Vegas. Quite the contrary; they were completely overwhelmed and throttled. Now the Jazz have officially been eliminated from Summer League Championship play. The roster, thus far, hasn’t shown many standouts that make their case for training camp deals.

But now they’ll have more eyes on them than ever. Utah continues to shuffle along the Las Vegas mess, finishing the end of a back-to-back against the 0-1 Chicago Bulls at the Thomas & Mack Center. It was after the conclusion of Sunday night’s game that it was announced Darryn Peterson, Ace Bailey and Cody Williams have been ruled out of today’s matchup. I doubt we’ll see any of them against San Antonio on Wednesday, nor their consolidation game once the Summer League Playoffs begin.

It truly was a shame for the NBA, which continued to rack up the top of the draft’s prospects against Peterson. Caleb Wilson was next on the slate following gladiator battles with Cam Boozer, AJ Dybantsa and Keaton Wagler. Wilson himself had a historic debut in a 97-96 loss against the aforementioned Boozer and Memphis. He racked up 35 points and 5 stocks while shooting 12-21 from the field that included 7-11 from beyond the arc. This set an NBA Summer League debut scoring record and is the second-most points in a Vegas debut since the event began in 2004. We’ve all been riveted about Peterson over at Jazz Nation, but anyone in the top four has felt ‘Giddey’ about how their prospects have played thus far.

Kennedy Chandler, who the Jazz brought in on two separate 10-day deals last season, is also on the Bulls G League roster. He opened up with 11 points and 5 assists going into his debut. Noa Essengue may be the laughing stock after being the victim of a devastating tomahawk poster, but he’s quickly knocking off cobwebs after missing nearly the entirety of his rookie season. His defensive versatility posed a challenge against Cam Boozer in the paint.

No Darryn Peterson. No Ace Bailey. Wait, Cody was playing? Who on God’s green Earth will be on the floor for the shorthanded Jazz? The good thing is, we’ve already seen it. In Salt Lake City Summer League, at least, when that same Jazz team completely annihilated the equally shorthanded OKC Thunder 103-69.

Blake Hinson has already earned himself a two-way spot on the Jazz, but he’s likely to have the ball coming in his hands a whole lot more if he continues to play. Slimming down 25 to 29 pounds has completely revamped his conditioning and speed on the court. It’s become completely apparent that the Jazz found a hidden gem in Hinson, enough to keep him over Elijah Harkless this summer. He quietly finished yesterday with 16 points on 4-8 shooting, sinking 2-3 three-pointers from downtown. Expect him to get an extended number of touches tonight.

Tamar Bates was another under-the-radar signing for the Jazz this offseason. He originally signed a deal with the Denver Nuggets last season, but was cut that same season due to a fractured foot. So far for the Jazz, Bates has proved to be a highly energetic player. He operates as a catch-and-shoot player who has the potential to be a scrappy off-ball defender. You won’t see his performance show up on the stat sheet all that often, but make no mistake, Bates has an impact if you watch him play.

If anyone were to earn themselves any sort of preseason deal, Jonas Aidoo has put together the best resume. The 6’11 big’s skillset is anchored by elite rim protection, mobility, and efficient paint-scoring. It’s unsurprising, considering he’s a reigning G League Champion who started for the Greensboro Swarm. He’s followed that with an insane Summer League run that can persuade me into thinking he’s a solid third center for the main Jazz roster. Aidoo’s best performance this July by far has been his game against OKC, where he posted 16 points, 14 rebounds and 4 blocks. Now against Chicago, he’s likely got a massive Caleb Wilson assignment on his hands to prove he belongs in this league.

In philosophy, possibility is the study of what could be true, what is necessary, and what is impossible. For instance, it is entirely coherent to imagine Bez Mbeng outscoring Caleb Wilson without creating a logical contradiction. Does the fact that Bez Mbeng has never actually outscored Caleb Wilson in a game yet only exists as an abstract concept in an alternate possible world, or does his real-world triple-double in April prove that the condition of possibility was already fully active in our actual universe? The power of possibility is not found in what we fail to reach, but in the frameworks that allow us to aim for it in the first place.

Is it coherent for you, the viewer, to turn on your television screen and watch sicko Summer League Hoops? It is all in the realm of possibility, my friend.

How to Watch the Las Vegas Summer League?

Who: Utah Jazz vs Chicago Bulls

When: Monday, July 13, 2026 | 7:00 MT

Where: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, NV

How: ESPN

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Ronald Acuña Jr., Ha-Seong Kim begin rehab today in Florida

Happy All-Star break to all who celebrate. May we all come away from this refreshed and ready for what awaits us in the next half, which kicks off Friday at home versus the Rangers.

This week is for rest and recovery, but also a secret third R: rehab.

The Braves (55-40) have announced that Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ha-Seong Kim will both begin rehab assignments with the FCL Braves. They play in North Port, Florida at noon today.

Acuña Jr. was placed on the 10-day IL with his second Grade 1 hamstring strain this season on June 10. This one was believed to be milder than the one that kept him on the shelf between May 3 and May 18. Even so, the Braves have understandably erred on the side of caution in not rushing him back.

Kim was placed on the 10-day IL on July 4 with right middle finger inflammation. We don’t need to belabor the season Kim is having, but here’s hoping something about this IL stint does him some good on the path to playing at a Major League level.

More reinforcements are on the way – we will share updates on the statuses of Robert Suarez, Sean Murphy, Mike Yastrzemski, and more once available.

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In The Lab: A Look at First Base Offense

One of the key points we discovered last time when looking at catcher offense is that each position stands on its own. The big league average for bases per out is .676, but that number is rarely ever the most relevant number. At first glance, it would appear that Christian Walker should be an American League all-star. He is at worst solid defensively and he has added 20 home runs (as of this writing) by the all-star break. However, we might be signing a different tune when we look at the American League numbers.

We are setting up the same rules as we did last time. Qualifying players need at least 120 outs and have had to play some first base. This will obviously include some designated hitters, but DH is not really so much of a position as a sanctioned strategy. So, when we profile Yordan Alvarez later on, he will be profiled as a left fielder. Given those caveats, there are 19 players that qualify for the analysis.

What we are looking for is an analysis of mean and median. It is one thing to say that the average big league hitter has a ,676 BPO. It is another to look at first basemen and see what their average is. Mean is of course what most people know as the numerical average. Median is the number in the middle. When we have smaller data sets we will commonly see some discrepancies between the mean and the median.

Bases per out is calculated by adding total bases, walks, stolen bases, and hit by pitches and dividing it by total outs. The general idea is that it is more inclusive and accurate than OPS. It encompasses everything a player does offensively. How is Christian Walker doing as compared to the typical American League first basemen?

OutsTBBBSBHBPBPO
Nick Kurtz25116676721.000
Ben Rice2491974623.996
Munetaka Murakama1621144412.988
Willson Contreras23516935214.936
Yandy Diaz2411653719.880
Jonathan Aranda2531565107.846
Pete Alonso2771645024.794
Cody Clemens2321452165.763
Paul Goldschmidt1781141713.758
Christian Walker2791643207.728
Spencer Torkelson2571334105.696
Jake Burger2581432823.682
Josh Bell2601452712.673
Rhys Hoskins183784203.672
Nolan Schanuel2171092505.641
Vlad Guerrero Jr.2611154064.632
Josh Naylor27712229183.621
Kyle Manzardo213953204.615
Vinnue Pasquantino204893231.613
Mean236.1135.941.12.74.5.780
Median2411393513.729

I certainly don’t have a degree in mathematics and I don’t teach it during the school year, but it isn’t difficult to see patterns. Generally speaking, the more success you have the more opportunities you get. So, the numbers on top are driving the mean up. This is the most important reason why the median makes more sense as a benchmark. If you look at who is literally in the middle it is Christian Walker.

Again, the components and the end results don’t quite add up because of the differences in opportunity. If you crunch those numbers in the median column you will not get .729. You will actually get .739. Either way, that number seems like a much more reasonable number when looking at the average of the position in the American League. We can also see clearly, that Walker really doesn’t have any business being near the All-Star game with the number of productive players we have here.

What is more interesting is pegging whether Walker is actually worth the 20 million dollars he is being paid. As per usual, that depends on how you phrase the question. In terms of pure value is actually probably pretty close. He was worth 0.3 BWAR last season, but has been worth 1.8 BWAR through the all-star break. That probably prorates to something around 3.0 BWAR. If each win is worth eight million dollars then he would need five WAR to equal that amount. He was worth 1.1 FWAR last year and has 1.6 FWAR this season. If we are to believe Fangraphs then he comes reasonably close overall and certainly earns his money this season. We can also look at his overall numbers as an Astro and compare that with BPO.

OutsTBBBSBHBPBPO
Christian Walker 2025-202674041072218.678

So, again this is a question of perspective. According to these numbers, Walker has been a league average hitter overall in his time in Houston. However, the numbers above would indicate that he is not an average first basemen. The NL may not have the heavyweights that the AL has at first base, so he might end up looking better in the overall scheme of things, but clearly whether he has been worth the expense depends greatly on how you ask the question.

In the last article, we asked what Diaz would need to do differently to help advance the Astros offense. Walker clearly just needs to keep doing what he is doing. If he ends up with between 30 and 35 home runs and close to 100 RBI then that feels like a really good season for him. One of the biggest mistakes that teams and fans make is that they expect that big time dollars somehow make you something you are not. Walker’s 2026 numbers are in line with his career numbers. He has been the guy that he was before he came to Houston in 2026. No one should have expected him to be anything more than that.

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Where Knicks rank among 10 best Eastern Conference teams ahead of 2026-27 season

The balance of power in the NBA flipped dramatically this offseason, after a flurry of big acquisitions turned the Eastern Conference into a hotbed of contenders. 

With so many players changing homes, let’s rank the top 10 teams in the East based on likelihood to represent the conference in the 2027 NBA Finals...

10: Magic

A team that was largely quiet, the biggest thing going for Orlando is a bet on better health and their new head coach, Sean Sweeney. They have some of the best on-paper talent in the East that’s failed to unlock its full potential in recent years. Could this be the one?

9: Hawks

The Hawks are banking on the back half of last season not being a fluke, doubling down on smart guard additions in Devin Carter and Aaron Wiggins, plus drafting Kingston Flemings. They can easily sneak their way into a high seed while the rest of the East works through new teammates and injury concerns.

8: Pistons

All-Star center Jalen Duren still hasn’t re-signed, but even if he does, the Pistons needed a stronger summer to push themselves to new heights. With their spacing and secondary creation sticking out as major weaknesses in the playoffs, their one needle-mover was trading for Isaiah Joe, and otherwise swapping one middling power forward for another and trading away Caris LeVert.

7: Heat

Pat Riley made the biggest splash of the summer in trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo, forming a dynamic duo with center Bam Adebayo. The talent speaks for itself, but the fit and supporting cast aren’t saying anything pretty.

Their current starting backcourt is Davion Mitchell and Tim Hardaway Jr., and they’ll be relying on a thin bench to help fill out the rotation. What’s more is their spacing will be a big question mark, especially in the postseason.

6: Cavaliers

The Cavs, like a few teams on this list, can vault a few spots if one particular pending free agent decides to sign here. In the meantime, they’re returning about the same roster from their Conference Finals run last year, hoping a James Harden training camp and the drafting of Meleek Thomas gives them an edge.

May 7, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges (25) drives the ball against Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) in the second quarter during game two of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden.
May 7, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges (25) drives the ball against Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) in the second quarter during game two of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. / David Butler II-Imagn Images

5: Celtics

As we saw last season, Boston has the depth and system to power through the regular season despite any on-paper talent they might be lacking. They can now double down on that system with a cleaner fit in Paul George, and a bolstered rotation thanks to the acquisitions of Mitchell Robinson and Mike Conley.

4: 76ers

Adding a top talent and capable innings-eater like Jaylen Brown will do wonders for Philadelphia's regular season record and ultimate postseason ceiling, but plenty of questions remain. A Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid-centric offense now has a 1A guy thrown in the middle -- one who can’t drift into a supporting role for stretches as seamlessly as the previous player in his position.

The spacing and defense with Brown in the rotation is just the tip of the iceberg. Their depth is still questionable and while we’re assuming full health, we haven’t seen Embiid play 40 regular season games in three seasons, and his postseason impact is slowly degrading as well.

3: Pacers

Everybody seems to be sleeping on the 2025 Finals runner-up after an injury-riddled and Tyrese Haliburton-less 2026 season. Perhaps that’s because they were quiet this summer relative to the rest of the East, or because they’re replacing a spread five with paint-centric Ivica Zubac.

But if Haliburton is back and healthy, and they can avoid another avalanche of bad luck, Indiana will be in prime position to take advantage. Teams will be adjusting to new players and systems while the Pacers can pick up on the fast-paced chemistry they already built between their two All-Stars and strong supporting cast.

2: Raptors

Assuming the Kawhi Leonard trade goes through without a hitch, Toronto becomes the biggest threat to New York, pairing Scottie Barnes and his talented group with a legitimate alpha and postseason killer. The Raptors took the Cavs to seven games in last year’s first round without Immanuel Quickley, and are banking on improvements from Collin Murray-Boyles and Jamal Shead, plus whatever contributions they get from rookie Allen Graves.

Fans may point to Leonard’s availability, but if he’s healthy enough to get them to the postseason and suit up at that level, they could beat anybody in the East. Toronto's defense will be near flawless and adding an efficient 28 points per game scorer materially changes their offense.

1: Knicks

The reigning champs still hold the crown, despite the improvements to their competition and the loss of Mitchell Robinson. They signed Andre Drummond in Robinson's place and re-signed the rest of their championship core, setting the stage for a repeat attempt.

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Padres head into All-Star break at .500 with series win over Blue Jays

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 12: Jase Bowen #4 of the San Diego Padres is congratulated by Rodolfo Duran #48 after scoring a run during the eighth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Petco Park on July 12, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images) | Getty Images

In their final turn at-bat in their final game of the ceremonial first half of the season, the San Diego Padres had their best inning of offensive execution, and the result was a 5-4 win over the Toronto Blue Jays. The win not only allowed the Padres to get their first series win of July it also sent them into the All-Star break with a .500 record at 48-48. Mason Miller, who locked down his 25th save of the season, is the lone All-Star for San Diego so the rest of the team will use the break to rest and reset for a potential playoff push in the second half of the year.

The Padres entered the bottom of the eighth inning trailing the Blue Jays, 4-3. Adrian Morejon allowed a run in the top of the inning during his second inning of work. Toronto turned to former closer Jeff Hoffman hoping to hold the lead and setup a potential save situation for their new closer, Louis Varland. Xander Bogaerts opened the inning with an infield single, which brought Manny Machado to the plate. Bogaerts stole second to move into scoring position, and Machado followed with a single into left-center field which tied the game at 4-4.

Gavin Sheets then grounded out to the shortstop, but Machado was able to advance to second on the play and was lifted for pinch-runner Jase Bowen. The rookie stole third base to put the winning run 90 feet away with Ty France at the plate with one out. France, who hit what proved to be the game-winning home run in the bottom of the sixth inning in the second game of the series, hit a deep fly ball into right-center field that carried all the way to the warning track. The ball was deep enough to allow Bowen to tag up and easily score from third base to put the Padres ahead, 5-4. Jake Cronenworth hit a two-out single, but the inning ended when Rodolfo Duran flied out to right field.

Miller came in for the save in the top of the ninth inning and made quick work of the three batters he faced. He got Ernie Clement to ground out to third base, Myles Straw to pop out to second base and put the punctuation mark on the inning and the game when he got Vladamir Guerrero Jr. to strikeout on three pitches with a nasty slider that finished in the left-hand batter’s box. Miller needed just eight pitches, seven of which were strikes, to ensure San Diego went into the break with some momentum for the second half of the season.

Machado’s game-tying hit in the bottom of the eighth inning was his third of the game. He finished the day 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored. Cronenworth was the only other Padres hitter to have a multi-hit game, finishing 2-for-4 with an RBI, which came in the second inning to score the first run of the game for San Diego.

German Marquez started the game for the Padres and lasted four innings. He allowed three runs on six hits with two walks and four strikeouts. He was hurt by the long ball as all three runs for the Blue Jays scored on home runs. Marquez allowed a solo home run in the first inning to Nathan Lukes and a two-run home run in the fourth inning to Clement.

San Diego returns to action on Friday on the road against the Kansas City Royals.

Padres News:

  • According to Dennis Lin of The Athletic, Padres general manager and president of baseball operations A.J. Preller wants to buy at the trade deadline, and the San Diego club will have to convince him to do so.

Baseball News:

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Darius Acuff Jr., Kings rookies still trying to find their way in summer league

Darius Acuff Jr., Kings rookies still trying to find their way in summer league originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

LAS VEGAS — The No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft looked exactly like that on Sunday.

AJ Dybantsa had 23 points on 6-of-15 shooting with seven rebounds, two assists, three steals and two blocks in 24 minutes to help the Washington Wizards defeat the Kings and remain undefeated in NBA Summer League action.

Dybantsa had 27 points in his NBA Summer League debut Thursday.

The Kings haven’t had that type of consistent offensive production from their rookies — yet.

Darius Acuff Jr., the No. 7 overall pick, already has shown flashes of his superstar potential and the readiness and willingness to be the future face of the franchise in Sacramento.

But his efficiency hasn’t been up to his standards by any means, and he’s made that known.

“I got to be better, though,” Acuff said after scoring 19 points in Sacramento’s win Thursday. “I’m playing terrible. Too inefficient. I got to make more shots in a row and get my teammates involved more.”

The efficiency didn’t get any better in Sunday’s loss, as Acuff finished with 12 points on 4-of-14 shooting from the field, missing all four of his 3-point attempts, with four assists and five turnovers in 28 minutes.

The concerns about his defense also have shown in glimpses, but the hope is that there is time for growth in that department.

Alex Karaban, the Kings’ No. 29 pick, finally scored his first points of summer league on Sunday.

The former UConn forward missed all three games of the California Classic as he recovered from an ankle sprain, making his official debut with the team on Thursday.

Karaban went scoreless in 24 minutes, shooting 0 of 6 from the field and 0 of 4 from downtown and adding two rebounds, one assist, three turnovers and one block.

He attempted just three shots in Sunday’s loss, making one 3-pointer in 23 minutes.

The Kings aren’t worried about the scoring, however, as they expect that to come. He still has made a lot of good defensive plays and is a smart player overall.

“I’m happy that he got his first summer league points today,” Maxime Raynaud said after the loss. “He also makes a lot of winning plays. Obviously, I don’t know if he shows in the box score, but his activity on the offensive board, I think that’s what opened some rebounds for Dylan [Cardwell] and I, even for himself, actually, He communicates a lot, and I mean, he’s able to be a good shooter to get down here as well.

“We’ve only been together for like what five, six days. Me, personally, only two. But I’m pretty sure it’s like you know, as we spend more time together, it’s gonna be good fun.”

Kings summer league coach Chris Darnell shared what his conversations with Karaban have been like.

“I’m just trying to tell him to play his game,” Darnell said. “Like, hey, maybe last game we didn’t make shots, but we know he’s a high-level shot maker. He’s a high-level connector, and one of those guys that created damages from this. … He’s a guy that doesn’t need a play called for him. He doesn’t need a certain action. Like he’s really good at reading the floor, reading the spacing on the floor. Very smart defender. It’s probably on me that I can put him in spots to be more aggressive.

“But overall, I think he’s a guy that just impacts the game again without any direct action. He’s just almost like a coach on the floor, just from the way he sees the game, the spacing.”

Emanuel Sharp also struggled shooting the ball Sunday, finishing with seven points on 2-of-8 shooting from the field and 1 of 6 from 3-point range in 22 minutes, but the Kings’ second-round draft pick has been the most consistently impressive rookie on both ends of the floor thus far.

Summer league is all about going through the ups and downs, learning and getting a feel for the game at the NBA level.

It’s all a part of the process.

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Former Huskies making waves in 2026 NBA Summer League

LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 12: Liam McNeeley #33 of the Charlotte Hornets dribbles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics on July 12, 2026 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. 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 Mike Kirschbaum/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The 2026 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas opened with a bang for multiple former Huskies. Liam McNeeley put on a show for Charlotte in their win over Orlando, putting up 28 points on 7-for-8 from downtown.

“I mean, a little nerves early on and they’re a team (Orlando) that’s got a little bit older guys, if you will, for summer league,” he explained. “So just kind of getting our feet settled into the game and responding to that physicality,” said McNeeley.

After being drafted late in the first round of the 2025 draft, McNeeley had a slower start to his NBA career, averaging 4.3 points in 31 games played for the Hornets. Year two for the soon-to-be 21-year-old could see him making the rotation after Charlotte moved off of star guard LaMelo Ball. McNeeley’s performance in this year’s Summer League can be the key reason McNeeley will get more looks during his sophomore season.

Looking over this season’s rookie class, Alex Karaban missed the California Classic due to a right ankle sprain during team practice on July 2. Karaban was cleared to play Thursday against the Clippers as he finished scoreless in 24 minutes, picking up 2 rebounds and an assist.

​Tarris Reed made his debut in the California Classic earlier this week. The Kodiak Bear picked up right where he left off back in March as he put up a pair of double-doubles against the Lakers and Hawks. Reed scored 12 points on 6-for-10 shooting in his first game against Los Angeles as he hauled in 12 rebounds and 1 assist. In his second game, we saw more of the same, as he made his presence known by dominating the glass and making shots down low, putting up 14 points and 10 rebounds.

​Dan Hurley made an appearance on the broadcast during the Houston vs Denver game and had much praise for his center.

​Tristen Newton, who was a key benefactor in the back-to-back National Championships, was on the floor for Houston with Hurley in attendance. Newton finished the night with 13 points and 3 steals, making a smooth and-one finish as Hurley shouted “Gimme that!” as he saw the ball fall through the basket.

Hurley made it clear that Newton can be a rotational player. Newton was named to the All-NBA G League First Team for the 2025-26 season, averaging 25.6 points for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Houston’s affiliate. Just like McNeeley, the Summer League may turn some coaches’ heads and get some Huskies NBA minutes.

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What do the Red Sox do with Brayan Bello now?

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 12: Brayan Bello #66 of the Boston Red Sox pitches during the fourth inning against the New York Mets at Citi Field on July 12, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) | Getty Images

After not exactly lighting the world on fire in AAA, Brayan Bello nonetheless returned to the big leagues yesterday. And he shoved: 4.1 IP, 5 K, 2 H, 1 ER, 0 BB.

So the obvious question is: what now? The Red Sox do have room in the rotation — at least for now — with Ranger Suárez and Connelly Early on the IL. Moreover, as we saw in yesterday’s stunted start, the team is going to attempt to limit the workload of Payton Tolle in his first full season. Yet it must be said that Bello once again came out of the bullpen yesterday, and has not yet proven that he can be as effective in a starting role this year.

So what comes next for Bello? Is he thrown back into the rotation? Does he go in on a piggybacking timeshare with Tolle for the time being?

Use this space to talk about whatever you want. Be good to each other and go Sox.