Category: Sports News

Worldwide Sports News

Posted on

Paul Blackburn showing why Yankees re-signed him: ‘really crisp’

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows New York Yankees pitcher Paul Blackburn #58, throwing a warmup pitch before the start of the game

TAMPA — Paul Blackburn could be a bargain.

Blackburn, who was re-signed to a one-year, $2 million contract after joining the Yankees in August, looked the part of a former All-Star while starting and throwing four shutout innings in Saturday’s 5-1 win over the Blue Jays at George M. Steinbrenner Field.

Blackburn, 32, hasn’t allowed a run in six innings of spring work.

Paul Blackburn throws a pitch during warmups in his four shutout innings outing in the Yankees’ 5-1 spring training win over the Blue Jays on Feb. 28, 2026. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

“We feel like he’s in a really good place,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. “We were hoping to get two or three innings out of him probably and he was so efficient he ends up going four … [He] was excellent, really from the jump. Really crisp. Command was excellent. I was really pleased. I thought his stuff looked real sharp.

“He’s been an All-Star. This guy’s been a good starting pitcher. And he’s not old. You see him go out there and watch that, he’s carving out there. He’s in complete control of things, commanding the ball well. We brought him back for a reason.”

Blackburn provided reasons for optimism last season, but also provided plenty of evidence that a reunion could be a mistake.


Before the Mets released him last year, the right-hander posted a 6.85 ERA in seven appearances (four starts).

Blackburn then took a beating in his Yankees debut — allowing seven runs in mop-up duty — but quickly found his footing in the bullpen, posting a 1.50 ERA with 14 strikeouts in his next 12 innings (seven appearances), which he credits to lowering his arm slot.

Paul Blackburn throws a pitch during his four shutout innings outing in the Yankees’ spring training win over the Blue Jays on Feb. 28, 2026. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

“I felt like I was fighting myself a lot,” Blackburn said Saturday. “I didn’t feel like I was myself at all. In August, I kind of said, ‘Screw it,’ and went back to how I was — more over the top, more trying to drive the ball down. When I came here, I talked to the pitching guys and that’s where they want me. When I showed up here, [I was] just getting a little more comfortable back in that arm slot I’ve always been in, just being able to get my pitches back to where they were in previous years, being able to move the ball around and roll good outings together.

“I’m not gonna throw gas by people, so I just gotta locate and change speeds.”

Boone envisions using Blackburn “potentially [in] a lot of roles,” with the option to use him as a starter until his rotation is back at full strength.


But Blackburn’s greatest value likely lies in the bullpen, filling that role in every appearance with the Yankees last year. In his first eight seasons, Blackburn only worked in relief in four of 86 appearances.

“I think my time here last year definitely got me really familiar with it,” Blackburn said. “You had guys down there like Luke [Weaver] — I know he made that transition — and he helped a bunch, picking his brain about what he did. … The more I did it, the more comfortable I felt doing it.”

Posted on

Open Thread: David Fizdale still bitter with the Spurs after all these years

SAN ANTONIO, TX - APRIL 25: David Fizdale of the Memphis Grizzlies talks to the media during a press conference after Game Five of the Western Conference Quarterfinals against the San Antonio Spurs of the 2017 NBA Playoffs on April 25, 2017 at AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. 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 2017 NBAE (Photo by Mark Sobhani/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

As basketball fans, when our team loses, we suffer. Imagine being the head coach.

Former NBA head coach David Fizdale — the creator of “Take That For Data” meme — recently visited with Michelle Beadle, Chandler Parsons, and Lou Williams on Fan Duel TV’s Run It Back. Anyone aware of Fizdale knows he does not shy away from controversial statements. This visit was no exception.

Fiz revisited the “Take That For Data” and “Not Gonna Rook Us” comments he made as head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies after a playoff loss to the Spurs. He added to his conspiracy that the Spurs were favored by the refs adding “I’m not calling out the refs officially, but I did a podcast with a guy and he said two of the refs went to San Diego State. I know a guy on that team that shot 19 free throws that went to San Diego State” referring to Kawhi Leonard.

He doubled down on his contempt for the Spurs as he reminisced about the air condition going out during Game 1 of the 2014 NBA Finals, believing the air condition going out was done on purpose. He also revealed that at some point when the Heat played in San Antonio, a snake was discovered in the visitor’s locker room.

See the entire interview here, Spurs related topics begin just after the two-minute point.

Fizdale started his coaching career as an assistant for his alma mater, the University of San Diego. Between 2003-2016 he serves as an NBA assistant for Warriors, Hawks, and Heat, the latter being where he picked up two rings.

In his first year as head coach, he and the Memphis Grizzlies met the Spurs in the playoffs where he unleashed his now infamous rant.

Fizdale went to the Knicks for a year before returning to assisting for the Lakers and eventually the Suns.

This season he did not sign on with anyone and currently resides in Southern California, which you might be able to tell from the video chat.

Welcome to the Thread. Join in the conversation, start your own discussion, and share your thoughts. This is the Spurs community, your Spurs community. Thanks for being here.

Our community guidelines apply which should remind everyone to be cool, avoid personal attacks, not to troll and to watch the language.

Posted on

US wins the Sydney leg of Sail GP, showing its class in light winds

SYDNEY (AP) — The United States showed its mastery of light conditions by winning the Sydney leg of the SailGP series Sunday, beating Britain and Spain in a three boat final.

Racing took place in winds of between 8 and 15 knots (9 to 17 mph) and the United States looked in its element, clearly beating Britain for its first win of the season.

Driver Taylor Canfield positioned the United States at the top end of the starting line in the final and, while Britain crossed slightly ahead, the USA was faster and had a better angle. Britain was just ahead at the first mark but the United States again had better speed and took a lead which it didn't concede for the rest of the race.

Britain split away on the second leg, looking for better wind. But the tactic didn't work and the United States positioned itself well to cement its advantage.

First win in two seasons

While the United States achieved a best speed of the day of around 41 knots, it only managed to stay on its foils for 22 percent of the finals. The win was its first in two seasons, since Cadiz in season four.

SailGP features 13 identical 50 foot catamarans which rise out of the water on foils and can attain high speeds. In the previous event of the series in Auckland, New Zealand strong winds saw boats achieve speeds of around 100kmh (60mph).

Only 11 boats were able to contest the Sydney event. France and New Zealand are still undergoing repairs after colliding in Auckland in a crash which sent a crewperson from both teams to hospital. New Zealand sailor Louis Sinclair suffered compund fractures to both legs and French strategist Manon Audinet suffered chest injuries.

Britain won the first of three fleet races Sunday. The United States won the second race and Denmark won the third.

The British team won the first event of the sixth SailGP season in Perth, Australia and Australia's Flying Roos won the Auckland event.

After three events, Britain leads the overall standings with 29 points from Australia with 25 and the USA with 20.

___

AP sports: https://apnews.com/sports

Posted on

Tobias Myers keeps thriving in starting and relieving roles for Mets

New York Mets pitcher Tobias Myers (32) throws in the first inning against the Washington Nationals during Spring Training Clover Field, Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026.
New York Mets pitcher Tobias Myers (32) throws in the first inning against the Washington Nationals during Spring Training Clover Field, Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026.

Observations from Mets spring training Saturday:

Pitching in

It’s still unclear if Tobias Myers will be a starter or long reliever for the Mets, but he has been sharp in both roles this spring — including his three-inning stint in his start against Washington at Clover Park. He allowed just a run on two hits and struck out four.

WBC ya later

Several big names on the Mets are ready to leave camp and head to the World Baseball Classic, with Juan Soto at the top of the list after playing both Friday and Saturday. Soto has looked comfortable so far in left field after moving from right this spring.

Tobias Myers delivers a pitch in the first inning of the Mets’ 3-2 spring training loss to the Nationals at Clover Field on Feb. 28, 2026. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST

Caught my eye

Francisco Alvarez, in his first game behind the plate this spring, made a strong throw to second on a stolen base by Harry Ford and said he felt good afterward. He also won an ABS challenge during his own at-bat to draw a walk.

Sunday’s Schedule

Clay Holmes will make his final Grapefruit League start with the Mets before leaving to pitch for Team USA in the WBC when the Mets host Houston at 1:10 p.m. at Clover Park.

Posted on

The ultimate breakdown: everything you need to know about F1’s new regulations for 2026

Get to grips with active aero, boost mode and super-clipping as the adoption of new hybrid engines shakes up the sport before the new season begins next weekend

In a week’s time, a new era will begin in Formula One as a major shift in regulations brings with it an air of unpredictability when the Australian Grand Prix gets under way in Melbourne.

The cars have been made smaller and lighter with the intent of making them more nimble, better to drive and to facilitate improved racing. The wheelbase has been reduced by 20cm to 340cm and the width by 10cm to 190cm. Across changes in the chassis and to the engine, the overall weight has been reduced by 30kg. Drivers such as Lewis Hamilton have declared themselves generally pleased with the improved handling characteristics of the more sprightly rides, which will operate with approximately 40% less drag, but they will not enjoy the same downforce or the same pace as last year’s models and are expected to open the season around one to two seconds a lap off last year’s times.

Continue reading...
Posted on

Game Preview: San Antonio Spurs vs New York Knicks

Dec 31, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) dribbles against New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) in the first half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images | Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images

Just like Willie Nelson, the Spurs are back on the road again, as their partitioned Rodeo Road trip comes to an end. They have only two opponents left before getting a lengthy home-stand, and the New York Knicks are the first team on the docket.

Technically, the Spurs are 1-0 versus the Knickerbockers, but remembering the sting of the NBA Cup Final, I think it’s safe to say that Spurs fans know better than that. Both games have had razor-thin margins, as the Knicks have served as a foil to Wemby and Company since Christmas of 2024.

One of the reasons for this is that the Knicks have size, and are consequently one of the better rebounding teams in the league (6th), which negates one of San Antonio’s advantages (3rd) over most opponents, especially as the Knicks are particularly good at offensive rebounding (5th), which is a big part of why they’re 6th in league in 2nd chance scoring.

This has been a common theme for squads that have been able to trouble the Spurs, and they’ve really cracked down on giving the opposition easy points and second chances, which is why they now rank 3rd in the league in preventing 2nd chance scoring, and in preventing opponents from scoring off of turnovers.

That the Knicks (4th) and the Spurs (5th) are also now both in the top 5 for limiting their own turnovers further confirms that neither team is likely to gain an advantage in this area.

The two teams also carry an almost identical net rating (San Antonio 4th, Knicks 5th), with the Knicks showcasing the better offense (3rd in offensive rating) and the Spurs continuing to display the superior defense (3rd in defensive rating).

So, it appears that difference will once again come down to suffocating the Knicks on the perimeter, as the Knicks rank 23rd in points in the paint, and the Spurs rank 2nd in preventing points in the paint.

And while much of modern NBA success is predicated on three-point conversion, the Knicks are a particularly nasty group of sharpshooters, ranking 4th in three-pointers made and three-point percentage, despite ranking 9th in attempts.

Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns adds a particularly nasty wrinkle on the defensive end, as arguably the premier stretch-five in the league, with a career percentage from 3 just decimals away from forty percent.

Towns getting hot from outside completely alters the way teams defend the Knicks, and could end up pulling Wemby away from the rim he so zealously protects from interior violation.

That being said, these are not the Spurs that the Knicks faced in the NBA Cup. They’re hotter than any team in the league right now, riding a 10-game winning streak after thumping the East-leading Pistons along the way, and they’re no longer in the prolonged shooting slump of January.

Over the last 10 games, the Spurs lead the league in scoring, +/-, offensive rating, defensive rating, net rating, assist-to-turnover ratio, True-Shooting Percentage, Limiting Free Throws, and are 2nd in Points in the Paint, FG%, and Effective FG%.

With the exception of some free-throw issues against the Toronto Raptors, they are quite literally playing their best basketball.

The Knicks, on the other hand, have been yo-yo-ing back and forth over the same stretch, as their offense seems to be experiencing a bit of the drop-off (12th) that ailed the Spurs earlier in the year, and they’ve been passed in the standings by the Jayson Tatum-less Boston Celtics.

It’s sure to be a packed house with Wemby back in the Garden (maybe he’ll get a game or two of chess in first), and both teams are still chasing teams ahead of them in the standings for the all-important playoff seeding.

If it’s anything like the last several meetings between these squads, it should be quite the show. And with minimal injuries, we should get close to the best version of both rosters.

But if I absolutely had to bet on it, I’d be sure to bet on the Spurs. There’s something brewing there.

San Antonio Spurs(43-16) vs New York Knicks (38-22)

March 1st, 2026 | 12:00 PM CT

Watch: ABC| Listen: WOAI (1200 AM)

Spurs Injuries: Mason Plumlee – Out (Conditioning)

Knicks Injuries: Miles McBride – Out (Abdominal injury)

Posted on

Australian Hannah Green wins HSBC Women’s World Championship by a stroke

SINGAPORE (AP) — Australian Hannah Green has won the HSBC Women’s World Championship for a second time, holding off a fast-finishing American Auston Kim to claim a one-stroke victory on Sunday.

Green, the 2019 Women’s PGA Championship winner, closed with a 69, after an erratic back-nine with three birdies and three bogeys nearly opened the door for Kim.

Green tapped in for bogey at the last and a 14-under four-round total of 274 at the par-72 Sentosa Golf Club and give her another title in Singapore after also winning here in 2024.

Kim had the equal-best round of the day with a 67 on the back off six birdies and an eagle, but bogeys at the second and especially at the par-3 15th ended her charge at 13-under 275, and one shot behind a faltering Green.

Minjee Lee, who had been co-leader with Green coming into Sunday's final round, mixed three birdies with three bogeys for a frustrating even final round 72 and was tied for third with Angel Yin (71) and Pauline Roussin-Bouchard (68) of France at 11-under 277.

Top-ranked Jeeno Thitikul, who won last week’s tournament in her native Thailand, shot 73 Sunday and was 2-under 287 and tied for 31st. She was one shot behind defending champion Lydia Ko, who had a 72.

The 72-player, no-cut tournament was the second of three stops on the LPGA’s early year Asian swing, with the final one next week at Hainan Island, China.

___

AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

Posted on

Cliff-hanger derby caps Rugby League's return to Las Vegas in pursuit of new American fans

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Rugby league's bid to crack into the U.S. sports market returned to Las Vegas on Saturday with its mission to convert Americans to this rugged brand of football drawing almost 50,000 fans to Allegiant stadium.

It's the third consecutive year Australia's National Rugby League has showcased the gritty sport in the entertainment capital.

How many locals showed up among the thousands of traveling fans from Australia and England on a day that saw three matches was not immediately clear, but the showcase delivered on the entertainment stakes capped by a cliffhanger between two historic rivals.

The NRL has committed until 2028 to play regular season matches in Las Vegas as part of a strategic plan to broaden an international audience for the sport and increase its sports betting revenue by playing Prime Time in the entertainment capital.

Australia has been courting the US market since 1987 when it played a State of Origin match between New South Wales and Queensland in Long Beach.

Bulldogs in derby win

A field goal in the second period of ‘golden point’ extra time by Canterbury Bulldogs captain Stephen Crichton decided a brutally physical encounter against the St. George-Illawarra Dragons.

Tied at 14-14 at the end of regulation and with both teams missing chances in the first period of extra time, Crichton stepped up from 20 meters (yards) to nervelessly slot home his kick to give the Bulldogs a dramatic victory.

Crichton had earlier played in winger Jacob Kiraz for Canterbury's second try after Jacob Preston had opened the scoring for Canterbury.

The Dragons twice leveled the match with a rare try by prop Emre Guler, while Setu Tu scored acrobatically in the corner for a try on his NRL debut.

Dragons half Kyle Flanagan kicked a penalty goal in the final minutes of regulation to tie the game and force extra time.

Knights upset Cowboys

Earlier, the Newcastle Knights stunned the North Queensland Cowboys 28-18 in the NRL season opener.

The match was in the balance at 22-18 in the last 10 minutes, before Braidon Burns was penalized for a high hit on Knights star Kalyn Ponga and was sent to the sin bin by referee Ashley Klein.

Newcastle, which finished bottom of the NRL standings last season, seized on the extra man advantage with prop forward Trey Mooney barging over to seal the win.

Newcastle raced to a 12-0 lead with tries from Greg Marzhew and Fletcher Sharpe, before the Cowboys rallied after Heilum Luki and Murray Taulagi scored to level at 12-12 at half time.

Bradman Best and Dominic Young scored a quickfire double for the Knights after the break before Taulagi's second try narrowed the deficit.

Leeds thump Hull KR

Maika Sivo scored four tries as the Leeds Rhinos thumped Hull KR 56-8 in the first match at Allegiant Stadium on Saturday featuring two English clubs.

The Rhinos stormed to a 28-0 halftime lead. Converted tries to Brodie Croft, Keenan Palasia, Ryan Hall and a double to Sivo set the tone.

Leeds maintained momentum in the second half with former Parramatta Eel Sivo scoring twice more, while Croft added a second try and Cooper Jenkins crashed over twice.

Hull's only reply came through Joe Burgess, a lone consolation after their World Club Challenge win over the Brisbane Broncos last week.

___

AP sports: https://apnews.com/sports

Posted on

Islanders have seemingly found secret to overtime success

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows New York Islanders player Simon Holmstrom skating on ice with his hockey stick while Columbus Blue Jackets player Cole Sillinger skates behind him

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The last time the Islanders made the playoffs, it was in large part due to all the times they got a point for losing in overtime.

This time, if they make it, it will be in some measure because they haven’t lost a game during 3-on-3 play all year.

After two overtime wins on the two-game trip that wrapped up Saturday with a 4-3 victory over the Blue Jackets, the Islanders are 8-0 in games decided by an overtime goal, though there have been five shootout losses.

Simon Holmstrom skates the towards the net during overtime of the Islanders’ 4-3 win over the Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on Feb. 28, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio. NHLI via Getty Images

It’s a world removed from two seasons ago when they had 16 overtime and shootout losses.

“I think it’s a lot of puck possession,” Bo Horvat told The Post before the Isles beat the Blue Jackets. “But I think our structure within our 3-on-3 game, we don’t give up much. I find everybody sticks to their man-on-man and does it the right way.

“I think possession time — besides last game, that first shift when [Montreal] had the puck the whole time — for the most part, I think we controlled the game a whole lot. I think that’s a big part of the 3-on-3 for sure.”

That was certainly the case Saturday.

The Islanders lost the opening draw — interestingly, they’re slightly below 50 percent at the dots this year at 3-on-3 — but gained possession within a few seconds, and the Blue Jackets never touched the puck again.

“I think you never know what’s gonna happen with overtime,” Simon Holmstrom said, having scored the winner off Tony DeAngelo’s outlet feed. “There’s always gonna be a lot of chances from both teams. It’s just a matter of possessing the puck and making the right plays at the right time. Getting the changes in, being able to keep them on the ice and get them tired. I think we’ve been doing a really good job of that this season.”

Boone Jenner sweeps the puck back toward Ilya Sorokin during the Islanders’ overtime win over the Blue Jackets. NHLI via Getty Images

Coach Patrick Roy said he would not have made the challenge that Blue Jackets coach Rick Bowness did in alleging goaltender interference on Jean-Gabriel Pageau’s goal at 11:59 of the second.

“The contact was not in the crease,” Roy said. “If it’s not in the crease, I don’t know if I would challenge anything right now in the league.”

Ilya Sorokin stopped 27 of 30 shots in net for the Islanders while Jet Greaves saved just 22 of 26.

David Rittich is likely to start against the Panthers at home Sunday on the second end of a back-to-back.

Kent Johnson was a surprise healthy scratch for the Blue Jackets on Saturday.

Posted on

Relief Pitcher Sleepers for 2026 Fantasy Baseball

Relief pitcher is not only the most volatile position in baseball, but their fantasy value can vary the most based on league depth and format. In any case, finding those late-round relief gems can go a long way towards a successful fantasy season. Last year, we had Aroldis Chapman and Daniel Palencia emerge from the late rounds to provide league-winning upside. Whether you’re looking for saves, a middle reliever for holds leagues, or stashing the next closers in waiting, we’ve got seven sleepers that could outperform their draft price.

⚾️ Coming soon: MLB returns to NBC and Peacock in 2026! In addition to becoming the exclusive home of Sunday Night Baseball, NBC Sports will broadcast MLB Sunday Leadoff, “Opening Day” and Labor Day primetime games, the first round of the MLB Draft, the entire Wild Card round of the postseason, and much more.

ADP data taken from the NFBC Online Championships in February

2026 Fantasy Baseball Relief Pitcher Sleepers

Clayton Beeter - Washington Nationals (NFBC ADP: 307)

The Nationals traded Jose A. Ferrer to the Mariners this offseason, vacating the team’s ninth-inning role after Ferrer finished out the season with 11 saves. As things stand, Beeter appears to be the frontrunner to open the season as the closer. The 27-year-old right-hander was acquired from the Yankees last season and posted a 4.26 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, and 33 strikeouts over 25 1/3 innings. However, he had made two appearances with New York before joining the Nationals and gave up six runs in those two outings. Beeter made 24 appearances with Washington, posting a 2.49 ERA and 1.02 WHIP across 21 2/3 frames. He has the strikeout stuff to be an excellent high-leverage reliever. The challenge for Beeter has always been throwing strikes. Even in his impressive run with the Nationals over the final two months, he posted a 16.7% walk rate. Limiting free passes would certainly help his cause in closing out games. Still, his strikeout upside and potential for saves make him a decent dart throw near the end of drafts.

Kirby Yates - Los Angeles Angels (NFBC ADP: 297)

Yes, Yates is 38 years old and coming off a 5.23 ERA while battling soft tissue injuries across 41 1/3 innings with the Dodgers. Still, he’s just one season removed from a 1.17 ERA and 33 saves with the Rangers in 2024. And despite the disaster performance, there were still some things to like under the hood. Yates maintained a strong 29.2% strikeout rate and a 16.5% swinging-strike rate that was better than his 15.2% mark in 2024. He also dropped his walk rate from 11.8% to 9.6%. There was also a clear marker of when his performance dropped off last season. Over the first month and a half, Yates looked very much like his 2024 self, striking out 31 batters to just five walks over his first 18 1/3 innings with a 2.95 ERA. He surrendered three runs on May 17 and landed on the injured list with a right hamstring strain. Yates was never able to get right from there, hitting the IL two more times with back and hamstring issues. Despite the age concerns, he comes into the season perhaps the healthiest of the viable closing options to open the year for the Angels, as late-inning hopeful Robert Stephenson reportedly dealt with a nerve issue over the offseason, putting his readiness for Opening Day in doubt. Given the strikeout ability we saw behind the disappointing surface stats, Yates is worth a dart throw for saves late in drafts with some upside if he can reclaim some of that 2024 magic.

Grant Taylor - Chicago White Sox (NFBC ADP: 331)

It’s fairly easy to dismiss Taylor by looking at his surface stats in his time with the White Sox last season. He recorded a 4.91 ERA and 1.42 WHIP over 36 2/3 innings. However, you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not delving a bit deeper into his intriguing skill set, which tells a whole other story. The 23-year-old right-hander was incredibly unlucky on balls put in play, with a bloated .420 BABIP. He struck out 54 batters for an excellent 34.4% strikeout rate and 24.8% K-BB rate. His ERA indicators suggest his talent level was more in line with a sub-3.00 ERA. This came after posting a 1.01 ERA and a 36.6% strikeout rate over 26 2/3 innings in Double-A. Not only was he prolific at missing bats, but he also suppressed the power of opposing hitters, giving up zero homers across both levels.

With Seranthony Dominguez stepping in as the primary closer, it’s unlikely Taylor will be deployed in a single-inning role that would put him in line for a share of saves. Instead, he’s likely be used in a versatile, multi-inning fashion with the goal of reaching 100 innings. Still, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him end up with a handful of saves and falling into some wins while collecting 120 strikeouts, which would make him quite valuable regardless of format.

Matt Svanson - St. Louis Cardinals (NFBC ADP: 359)

One of the ambiguous situations around the league, Riley O’Brien and Jojo Romero ended the season splitting save chances for the Cardinals. While both had solid seasons on the surface, their underlying skills suggest regression, with K-BB rates of 11.6% and 10.2%, respectively. Struggles for the incumbents could open the door for Svanson, who displayed the best skills in the St. Louis bullpen and produced incredible numbers in his first full season. The 27-year-old right-hander posted a 1.94 ERA, 0.88 WHIP, and 68 strikeouts over 60 1/3 innings. In contrast to O’Brien and Romero, Svanson finished with a strong 20.5% K-BB rate. The Cardinals may struggle to accumulate a high number of save chances, but keep an eye on Svanson as one of the more talented closers in waiting.

Garrett Whitlock - Boston Red Sox (NFBC ADP: 358)

After several seasons battling injuries and role ambiguity, Whitlock has fully developed into one of the best high-leverage relievers in baseball after a breakout 2025 season. He posted a 2.25 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, and 91 strikeouts over 72 innings while recording 24 holds and seven wins. Those 91 strikeouts were top-10 in baseball among relievers behind a career-high 16.3% swinging-strike rate, with his sinker, slider, and changeup all generating whiffs. As the primary setup man in Boston, Whitlock makes for a great late option in holds leagues given his ratio stability, volume, and strikeout upside. And while Aroldis Chapman’s role in the ninth inning is secure, Whitlock is one of the higher-priority closers in waiting given that Chapman is entering his age-38 season.

Justin Sterner - Athletics (NFBC ADP: 333)

The Athletics struggled to fill the ninth-inning void left by Mason Miller following his trade to the Padres at last season’s deadline. Six different relievers recorded saves, and none with more than four. Sterner is a prime candidate to take the lead for save chances in 2026. After posting a mediocre 3.67 ERA in the first half, he really found his stride after the All-Star break, particularly over the final two months. From August on, he posted a 1.40 ERA, 0.70 WHIP, and a 33/4 K/BB ratio for a stellar 29.9% K-BB rate that was tenth in baseball among relievers during that span. If Sterner can maintain the 16.3% swinging-strike rate in the second half, along with the excellent walk rate, there’s a solid chance he’ll be working his way into a closer role that’s wide open in Sacramento.

Bryan Baker - Tampa Bay Rays (NFBC ADP: Undrafted)

Baker is another reliever who is easy to overlook based on 2025 surface stats. He posted a 4.06 ERA and 1.11 WHIP across 68 2/3 innings with the Orioles and Rays. Of course, the Rays have a reputation for savvy moves and excellent pitching development. And the underlying skills point to better results ahead for Baker. The 31-year-old right-hander struck out 83 batters last season for a 30.3% strikeout rate while issuing just a 6.2% walk rate for a strong 24.1% K-BB. Some ERA indicators, including a 3.08 xFIP and 2.74 SIERA, further suggest he was much better than the 4.06 ERA he produced. The Rays are expected to utilize a closer committee. Manager Kevin Cash named Griffin Jax, Edwin Uceta, and Garrett Cleavinger, along with Baker, as pitchers who could get the nod for save chances. Uceta has been hampered by a shoulder issue early in camp. And Cleavinger is currently the only projected left-hander in the bullpen. If Uceta should miss time out of the gate, Baker could be the biggest beneficiary of save chances next to Jax.

Posted on

Atlanta faces Portland, aims for 4th straight home win

Portland Trail Blazers (29-32, ninth in the Western Conference) vs. Atlanta Hawks (30-31, 10th in the Eastern Conference)

Atlanta; Sunday, 6 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Hawks -5.5; over/under is 237.5

BOTTOM LINE: Atlanta will try to keep its three-game home win streak alive when the Hawks take on Portland.

The Hawks have gone 13-16 in home games. Atlanta averages 30.3 assists per game to lead the Eastern Conference, paced by Jalen Johnson with 7.9.

The Trail Blazers are 13-17 on the road. Portland has a 6-4 record in games decided by less than 4 points.

The Hawks average 117.1 points per game, 1.0 fewer point than the 118.1 the Trail Blazers give up. The Trail Blazers' 45.1% shooting percentage from the field this season is 2.2 percentage points lower than the Hawks have allowed to their opponents (47.3%).

The teams play for the second time this season. In the last matchup on Jan. 16 the Trail Blazers won 117-101 led by 24 points from Shaedon Sharpe, while Onyeka Okongwu scored 26 points for the Hawks.

TOP PERFORMERS: Johnson is averaging 23 points, 10.6 rebounds and 7.9 assists for the Hawks. CJ McCollum is averaging 19.3 points over the last 10 games.

Toumani Camara is scoring 13.0 points per game and averaging 5.3 rebounds for the Trail Blazers. Jerami Grant is averaging 2.6 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Hawks: 6-4, averaging 116.4 points, 48.1 rebounds, 28.7 assists, 9.0 steals and 4.7 blocks per game while shooting 44.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 114.1 points per game.

Trail Blazers: 6-4, averaging 116.6 points, 45.8 rebounds, 27.0 assists, 8.1 steals and 6.3 blocks per game while shooting 46.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 117.9 points.

INJURIES: Hawks: Nickeil Alexander-Walker: day to day (foot), Jalen Johnson: day to day (hip).

Trail Blazers: Deni Avdija: day to day (back), Shaedon Sharpe: out (calf), Damian Lillard: out for season (achilles).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Posted on

Sacramento visits Los Angeles for conference matchup

Sacramento Kings (14-47, 15th in the Western Conference) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (35-24, sixth in the Western Conference)

Los Angeles; Sunday, 9:30 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Lakers -13.5; over/under is 231.5

BOTTOM LINE: Los Angeles plays Sacramento in a matchup of Western Conference teams.

The Lakers are 24-15 in conference games. Los Angeles is eighth in the Western Conference at limiting opponent scoring, allowing only 115.6 points while holding opponents to 48.6% shooting.

The Kings are 10-31 in conference matchups. Sacramento is 11-21 when it turns the ball over less than its opponents and averages 13.8 turnovers per game.

The Lakers average 11.8 made 3-pointers per game this season, 1.3 fewer makes per game than the Kings allow (13.1). The Lakers average 110.4 points per game, 5.2 fewer points than the 115.6 the Lakers allow.

The teams meet for the fourth time this season. The Kings won 124-112 in the last matchup on Jan. 13.

TOP PERFORMERS: Luka Doncic is averaging 32.6 points, 7.7 rebounds and 8.6 assists for the Lakers. Austin Reaves is averaging 17.9 points over the last 10 games.

DeMar DeRozan is averaging 18.4 points and 3.9 assists for the Kings. Nique Clifford is averaging 1.6 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Lakers: 5-5, averaging 112.8 points, 39.4 rebounds, 26.1 assists, 7.3 steals and 4.5 blocks per game while shooting 50.3% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 113.0 points per game.

Kings: 2-8, averaging 111.5 points, 43.9 rebounds, 26.0 assists, 9.3 steals and 4.2 blocks per game while shooting 44.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 124.9 points.

INJURIES: Lakers: Rui Hachimura: day to day (illness).

Kings: Domantas Sabonis: out for season (back), Dylan Cardwell: out (ankle), De'Andre Hunter: out for season (eye), Zach LaVine: out for season (finger), Keegan Murray: out (ankle).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Posted on

Dixon, Jester propel UC Irvine to 64-60 victory over UC Santa Barbara

IRVINE, Calif. (AP) — Jurian Dixon and reserve Jovan Jester Jr. both scored 13 points to help UC Irvine hold off UC Santa Barbara 64-60 on Saturday night.

Dixon added six rebounds and Jester grabbed four boards with four steals for the Anteaters (20-10, 13-5 Big West Conference). Andre Henry added 12 points off the bench.

Colin Smith had 16 points and six rebounds to pace the Gauchos (18-12, 11-8). Zion Sensley added 14 points and Aidan Mahaney scored 12.

UC Irvine led 32-23 at halftime.

___

Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP News mobile app). AP college basketba spurtll: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball