Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas speaks at a press conference on Friday, Jan. 23, 2025. (Emily Curiel/Kansas City Star/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)
The Kansas City Royals are 7-12 and just lost a heartbreaker to the Detroit Tigers on Thursday afternoon. Despite that, I imagine that there were still plenty of smiles at 1 Royal Way yesterday after the KCMO City Council passed a stadium financing ordinance that could provide up to $600 million for the construction of a new stadium in the “Washington Square Park/Crown Center area.” The vote passed 11-1-1. This vote was a big step for KCMO to keep the Royals in the city, but it’s just a step with more to come. This legislation authorizes KCMO City Manager Mario Vasquez to officially start negotiating with the Royals, as we see in Section 3 of the bill:
Section 3. That the City Manager is hereby directed to negotiate, in coordination with the appropriate agencies, a comprehensive lease and a comprehensive development agreement with the Kansas City Royals organization, developers, city incentive agencies, and other relevant parties for the development of a new stadium and team offices in the Washington Square Park/Crown Center area.
Kansas City Star reporter Dylan Lysen wrote a quality article on what this does and does not mean, and what steps are next:
It mostly sets up a general framework and roadmap for city officials to reach agreements with the Royals and other government agencies who would all be involved in bringing the stadium to life.
Getting the project any further along will not only require buy-in from the team and the state, but the City Council will also still need to approve any funding promises, a lease and other details at a later date before construction can begin.
The Royals seem pleased with the vote; they released a statement stating:
The Royals remain grateful for the work and attention of local leaders. We respect the process, which includes the City Council and Parks Board consideration, and the City Manager’s presentation of a term sheet for review and negotiation, with a long-term vision that we expect to include one of the largest private investments in Kansas City history. As always, our motivation is to find the best solution for our team, our fans, and our community. We’re excited by the possibilities this opportunity presents for our hometown
The team’s success in local politics did not translate on to the field, as the team lost 10-9 in a walk-off in Detroit. Lucas Erceg, who blew the save in the ninth inning, shouldered the blame for the loss:
“We finally turn the corner, and I just come out and blow the lead like that and lose the game. So, I feel like this loss is on me. But, then again, there’s always tomorrow. And I’m going to be ready for tomorrow. I hope that I’m in the same situation tomorrow night and get back to winning.”
For something more positive, Kiri Oler referenced a piece of literature I’d never heard of breakdown of Seth Lugo’s pitches that was way above my head but still an enjoyable read:
In defense of the hitters, Lugo gives them a complicated set of variables to consider during the small window of time allotted for a swing decision. He’s got seven(ish) pitches to his name, and they all make an essential contribution to who he is as a pitcher.
Maybe the Royals can channel the power of Mike Trout when they face the New York Yankees this weekend. The slugger hit his fifth home-run in the four game series at New York on Thursday.
Old friend Mark Canha has asked to be released by the Texas Rangers so he can pursue big league opportunities with another team.
Old friend Richard Lovelady has been acquired by the Washington Nationals from the New York Mets.
The San Francisco Giants and Cincinnati Reds had their benches clear after the final out of the Giants 3-0 victory.
The San Diego Padres could be sold as early as next week that could approach a record $3.5 billion.
Kansas City Chiefs general manager Brett Veach expects a lot of trades during the 2026 NFL Draft.
DENVER, CO - APRIL 4: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets handles the ball against Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs on April 4, 2026 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. 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 Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
It feels like the difference between the NBA’s regular season and playoffs becomes more stark every year. While high-scoring games and tanking talk dominated the national discourse over the league’s 82-game slog, there was quietly a fascinating championship race bubbling beneath the surface. There are several viable contenders in both conferences this season, and if the play-in tournament is any indication, the product is going to be so much more competitive and engaging than the regular season ever was.
The Oklahoma City Thunder enter the playoffs as the favorites to win it all, and they’re fighting against the recent history of the league to do it. No team has won back-to-back championships since Kevin Durant was on the Golden State Warriors back in 2017 and 2018. OKC has the likely MVP in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander along with the league’s best defense, but occasional outside shooting woes and lingering injuries to co-star Jalen Williams make the Thunder vulnerable.
The San Antonio Spurs and Denver Nuggets are both dreaming of winning it all behindx their superstar big men Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokic. The race in the East is even more wide open with the top four teams in the playoff bracket all believing they have what it takes to reach the 2026 NBA Finals.
With the playoffs about to get underway, let’s rank every team in the field by their championship chances. We’ll update this story with the two No. 8 seeds once those are decided in the final round of the play-in tournament.
14. Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers are back in the playoffs for the first time in five years, and they have a strong foundation to continue growing for the future. Portland has a burgeoning star creator in Deni Avdija and a defense that ranked No. 3 in the league since the All-Star break. Avdija’s ability to take bumps on his drives to the rim and consistently get to the foul line gives this team a chance to generate consistent offense when everything else fails. Donovan Clingan feels like a star in the making for his rebounding and rim protection, but he’s about to have his hands full against Victor Wembanyama in the first round. I think Portland can take a game off the Spurs, but I’d be surprised with anything more than that.
13. Los Angeles Lakers
It’s a shame that the Lakers will head into the offseason without knowing how good this team truly is. Luka Doncic’s hamstring strain and Austin Reaves’ oblique strain will decimate Los Angeles’ chances in the playoffs with both expected to miss the start of their first-round series against Houston, if not the entire thing. LeBron James is the focal point once again for the Lakers, but he just doesn’t have enough help to advance even if Houston can get caught in the mud offensively. I would have picked the Lakers to win this series with Doncic and Reaves healthy, but that’s not the case, so I have to go with the Rockets.
12. Toronto Raptors
The Raptors deserve a lot of credit for jumping from 30 wins to 46 wins on the back of an elite defense. Scottie Barnes has taken a real leap on both ends, the Brandon Ingram addition has worked out reasonably well, and the front office has hit the jackpot with some value free agent signings (Sandro Mamukelashvili) and second-round picks (Jamal Shead). The catch with Toronto’s turnaround is they still can’t beat a good team, with most of their wins coming by taking care of business against bottom-feeders. The Raptors at least know who they are as a team, which should work to their advantage in a first-round series against a new-look Cleveland team that’s still coming together after the trade deadline. I’d be surprised if Toronto wins a series, but they should keep things competitive if nothing else.
11. Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid’s health has haunted the 76ers on just about every playoff run of his career, and it’s happening again. Embiid is sidelined after having his appendix removed earlier this month, but Philly didn’t need him to earn the No. 7 seed in the East by beating the Magic in the play-in. Tyrese Maxey has had a special season, and he can take over any game in crunch-time even if the Boston Celtics have some ideal defenders to throw on him. Embiid miraculously returning to peak form would give Philly a chance in this series, but Boston still feels like a comfortable favorite to advance, even if it takes six games.
10. Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks traded Trae Young and Kristaps Porzingis ahead of the deadline, and suddenly morphed into one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference. Since the deadline, Atlanta ranks No. 6 in the league in net-rating, outscoring opponents by 7.4 points per 100 possessions. The New York Knicks have more talent on paper, but the Hawks are playing such good ball on both ends that there’s a real chance for an upset. Atlanta has the bodies to throw at Jalen Brunson on the perimeter, with Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Dyson Daniels getting the assignment most of the series. Alexander-Walker will also be counted on to produce offensively as he shares the creation burden with C.J. McCollum. The fun thing about the Hawks is that almost everyone in the lineup can attack off the dribble, and it should put a Knicks team with a couple weak links defensively in an uncomfortable position. I still like New York to advance, but it won’t be easy.
9. Houston Rockets
The Rockets felt like they would be toast in the first round of the playoffs for most of the second half of the season, but a strong closing kick plus a favorable matchup against a Lakers team missing its two best players gives Houston a reason to believe. The Rockets aren’t the same team without injured starters Steven Adams and Fred VanVleet, but there’s still a pathway to advancing here. Kevin Durant has put up an All-NBA caliber year at age-37, and he’s again going to have to carry the offense for long stretches in this series. Alperen Sengun is a workhorse in the middle who should have his way with Deandre Ayton. Amen Thompson could be a breakout candidate with elite defense and transition scoring, but there are questions about his halfcourt offense. It’s hard to believe we’re getting another KD vs. LeBron series in 2026 — it would just be a lot more fun if everyone else around them was healthy.
8. Minnesota Timberwolves
Wolves vs. Nuggets might be the best rivalry in the NBA at this point as the two teams prepare for their third playoff series in four years. The Wolves remain something of a mystery even after 82-games with recent injuries to Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels, the trade deadline acquisition of Ayo Dosunmu, and the integration of Bones Hyland into a real rotation piece. Minnesota is still an elite defensive team with Rudy Gobert on the floor, posting a 109.4 defensive rating in his minutes that would have ranked third in the league. Of course, Nikola Jokic poses unique problems even for the league’s best defenders, and it feels like Minnesota’s only real chance is if it’s offense reaches levels it hasn’t hit during the regular season. Edwards will have to play at his best level to give Minnesota a chance, but the Wolves also need Julius Randle to repeat his inspired playoff run last year, and for Dosunmu and Naz Reid to stay hot as shooters. It feels like a long-shot the Wolves can win this series, but it’s hard to discount them after back-to-back conference finals trips.
7. Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavs traded Darius Garland for James Harden at the deadline to become bigger, tougher, and more durable for the playoffs. Harden turned in another All-NBA caliber season at age-36, but it’s hard to trust him in the playoffs after so many high profile failures. Cleveland’s biggest issue is that the team just hasn’t really been healthy all season, but it finally seems like they should have all their key pieces for this run. Harden has helped take Jarrett Allen’s offense to the next level, and their pick-and-roll combination could determine Cleveland’s offensive ceiling just as much as Donovan Mitchell’s shot-making. The Cavs’ defense has been a little spotty, and keeping Toronto in check in transition will be a good gauge of their overall level. It feels like the Cavs could be in for more changes if they go bust on this run (a LeBron reunion, anyone?), but there’s still significant upside here if it all comes together.
6. New York Knicks
The Knicks have tons of talent, but often leave their fans wanting a little bit more. The starting lineup has essentially played teams even for two years, and that’s not good enough given the cap space and future assets devoted to that grouping. Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns should be a deadly pick-and-roll combination, and they’ve started to look a bit more in-tune to end the season. Miles McBride is back from injury and offers some sorely needed shot-making upside and lineup versatility. Mitchell Robinson always feels like an injury waiting to happen, but his offensive rebounding is dominant and can change a series. I want to see how the Knicks can defend against Atlanta’s transition offense and unpredictable pick-and-roll combinations. I want to see if Brunson and KAT can stay on the floor defensively together in the game’s biggest moments. The Knicks can absolutely win the East, but it feels like they should have been the favorite given preseason expectations, and I can’t confidently say that’s the case.
5. Detroit Pistons
The Pistons’ worst-to-first story is absolutely incredible. Two years ago, Detroit won 14 games. This season? 60 games and the No. 1 seed in the East. Cade Cunningham is back from a collapsed lung, and should be ready to carry this team in tough moments. The star point guard has a lot on his plate because Detroit just doesn’t have much shooting or halfcourt creation around him. The Pistons spent the regular season developing the league’s deepest bench, and players like Daniss Jenkins and Paul Reed are about to be in the spotlight for big minutes. Jaren Duren needs to prove his offensive explosion can translate to playoff settings, while the wing combination of Ausar Thompson and Ron Holland must prove they are ready for primetime so early in their careers. Detroit’s model of an elite defense and a superstar guard worked pretty well for the Thunder in their championship run last season. A lack of trust in the offense is the one thing holding me back from picking Detroit to make the Finals, but they have as good a chance as anyone in the East.
4. Boston Celtics
Raise your hand if you believed the Celtics would be in for a gap year as Jayson Tatum recovered from a torn Achilles. I’m ashamed to admit I thought so, too. Instead, the Celtics enter the playoffs as the Eastern Conference favorites, with Tatum back in the lineup and a young and more athletic supporting cast around him. Joe Mazzulla got the most out of the patchwork front court, and now Neemias Queta needs to cement his breakout season in the playoffs. Jaylen Brown’s career year will also be under the microscope on this run, as will the shot distribution between him and Tatum late in close games. Derrick White getting hot with his shot would change everything for Boston, but he’s still somehow an elite player even when his jumper is cold. Boston’s offense always hunts great shots, and the defense is even tougher with Tatum happy to do the dirty work. This isn’t the best Celtics team of the Jays era, but it’s still damn good, and maybe even the best in the East.
3. San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs’ preseason win total was set at 44.5 games by Vegas. Instead, San Antonio won 62 games and forced some uncomfortable questions about whether Victor Wembanyama is already the best player in the world. The Spurs put the rest of the NBA on alert by beating defending champion Thunder three straight times in Dec., and they kept rolling from there. Wembanyama is a problem without a solution for opponents; there are times where I think he’s the most talented player in league history thanks to his 8-foot wingspan, elite speed and coordination, high motor, and burgeoning skill. San Antonio was widely expected to have shooting questions around their young French superstar, but that didn’t really matter much as Julian Champagnie, Harrison Barnes, and Devin Vassell all hit at least 38 percent from deep. The spotlight will be on Stephon Castle to prove himself as a future All-Star, and there are some questions about how his physical two-way player translates without proven shooting ability. The Spurs finally put a good supporting cast around Wemby just as he reached a new level of dominance. This team is absolutely going to win championships eventually, but there are a couple veteran teams in front of them that I think will be hard to get past this year.
2. Denver Nuggets
Nikola Jokic has been the best player in the world since the dawn of the 2020s, and this playoff run is shaping up to be a golden opportunity to continue adding to his legendary resume. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander feels like he’s finally started to pull away Jokic’s crown, and Wembanyama is coming for it if he doesn’t already have it. Jokic is simply too good of a player to retire with only one championship, and this is a real chance to win another one. The Nuggets improved their depth over the offseason, which came in handy as they were hit by a rash of injuries to key rotation pieces during the regular season. As the bench developed, Jamal Murray solidified his place as a worthy second banana by turning in the best season of his career. We’ve seen Murray have killer playoff runs before, and he feels primed for one this year. The health of Aaron Gordon and to a lesser extent Peyton Watson could determine Denver’s ceiling. If they can beat the Wolves, a potential second round matchup with the Spurs is looming, and the winner likely gets the Thunder. It’s an incredibly difficult road just to get to the Finals, but Denver has the offensive ceiling to do it. Will they defend enough? Will they stay healthy? Denver still has some questions to answer, but if it all comes together, it still has championship upside.
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder felt like a potential dynasty after winning the championship last season, and now the basketball world is about to see if they’re up for it. OKC’s championship defense is every bit as good as it was a year ago. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander almost feels unstoppable at this point: he’s slippery enough to get wherever he wants with his handle, long enough to shoot over anyone, and his knockdown touch on mid-range pull-ups is suddenly now extending beyond the three-point line. Every other piece on the Thunder plays their role to support SGA, and there are multiple members of this supporting cast destined for stardom in their own right. Chet Holmgren is an elite two-way big with excellent rim protection and the perimeter skill of a wing. Cason Wallace is growing into a lockdown defender, and Ajay Mitchell is developing into the supplementary ball handler OKC needs when Shai sits. The shooting can be a little bit spotty, and Jalen Williams missing most of the season to this point is certainly unnerving. It’s easy to forget that the Thunder really didn’t look all that dominant on their playoff run last season, getting the benefit of opponent injury luck in their two toughest series. Still, this defense will travel in any matchup, they won’t have to play Denver or San Antonio until the conference finals, and SGA really is tracking as an all-time great. The Thunder are good enough to break the NBA’s no repeats streak. It’s going to take a Herculean effort to stop them.
There’s a strange, almost cruel symmetry to the way this first-round series between the Rockets and the Lakers has taken shape.
Three weeks ago, the Lakers looked like one of the NBA’s best teams, on the precipice of making a deep playoff run. Meanwhile, the Rockets were stumbling through March grasping for something to hold onto.
Now the roles have reversed, violently.
The Lakers limp into the postseason missing their top two scorers in Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves — that’s nearly 60 points per game gone like smoke.
There’s a strange, almost cruel symmetry to the way this first-round series between the Rockets and the Lakers has taken shape. Troy Taormina-Imagn ImagesNow the roles have reversed, violently. Getty Images
The Rockets enter the playoffs soaring, winners of nine of their last 10 games. They’ve rediscovered their identity, and it starts and ends on the defensive end.
The Lakers will try to hold onto the rope long enough for their two stars to try to come back later in the series. Until then, here are some of the matchups to look for:
LeBron vs the Machine
The Lakers’ only chance of getting past Houston without Doncic and Reaves hangs on the back of a 41-year-old LeBron James.
Houston won’t treat him like a king. The Rockets will treat him like the head of the snake. Stop him and let the role players try to beat you. Unfortunately for the Lakers, Houston has a lot of players on its roster who can do that.
Let’s start with Amen Thompson — long, relentless and unapologetically physical. He finished fifth for NBA Defensive Player of the Year voting last season, and we expect another top-five finish this year. Thompson will take on the assignment of guarding James straight up at times, stripping away the need for help defense thereby allowing the rest of the players to stay home on their assignments.
When Thompson’s not on LeBron, the Rockets can also throw 6-foot-11 forward Jabari Smith Jr. on him with his over 7-foot wingspan. If they want a different look, Houston coach Ime Udoka can also put 6-8 physical forward Tari Eason on him.
The Lakers’ only chance of getting past Houston without Doncic and Reaves hangs on the back of a 41-year-old LeBron James. NBAE via Getty Images
Alperen Sengun vs DeAndre Ayton: The Battle Beneath
In a series defined by perimeter defenders and NBA legends, the most important matchup in the series might happen in the paint.
Turkish big man Alperen Sengun is now a fulcrum. He’s a two-time All-Star and a problem in the paint who demands constant attention. The assignment of guarding him belongs to former No. 1 overall draft pick Deandre Ayton.
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In his first season with the purple and gold, Ayton has been inconsistent, his focus and effort drifting at times — until recently. The last six weeks have offered a glimpse into what he can be when he’s engaged, physical, present and focused.
Ayton has the most difficult assignment of any Lakers player. Rebound everything. Keep the Rockets off the offensive glass. Contain Sengun as much as he can, be the rim defender when the Lakers switch to a zone defense and run the pick and roll with James and Luke Kennard in order to make a dent on offense as well.
The assignment of guarding him belongs to former No. 1 overall draft pick Deandre Ayton. Getty Images
Different Defensive Looks and Disruption
Not an individual matchup, but we expect the Lakers to give the Rockets different looks on defense throughout the series. The team frustrated its opponents throughout the season by switching to a zone defense during games. We expect some zone looks in this series as well.
Houston isn’t a strong 3-point shooting team outside of Reed Sheppard, which could allow the Lakers to play zone sometimes and dare the Rockets to beat them from distance. They also want to disrupt passing lanes, force turnovers and blitz Kevin Durant. Blitzing Durant when he had the ball worked in their last two matchups in Houston. In their first matchup March 16, they erased a six-point halftime deficit by blitzing Durant and holding him scoreless the entire second half until a last-second layup in garbage time.
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The Rockets have one of the slowest paces of play and will want to slow down the game and grind it to a halt in the half court. The Lakers, meanwhile, need chaos and to get out in transition. Quick strikes before the Rockets’ defense can even set up.
Houston will need Sheppard’s 3-point shooting in this series, but when he’s on the floor, look for LeBron and the Lakers to hunt him on defense. Drag him into screens. Force switches. Attack.
Not an individual matchup, but we expect the Lakers to give the Rockets different looks on defense throughout the series. Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
LeBron James vs. Kevin Durant: The Last of the Mohicans
Durant is the quiet storm that hovers over this series. Houston’s elite perimeter defenders allow Durant to expend his energy on the offensive end of the floor, where he can take over entire games.
The Lakers will likely throw the smaller Marcus Smart and stronger Rui Hachimura at him, hoping the combination can disrupt his rhythm. LeBron will even guard him at times as well. Help will inevitably come. It has to. But every second defender you throw at Durant allows someone else to be wide open.
If Houston finds those players and they make those shots, the Lakers are in big trouble.
Expect James to have the ball in his hands most of the time on offense, hunting mismatches and forcing Houston to make tough decisions. On defense, LeBron will lurk, providing help on Durant.
This might be the final chapter between LeBron and Durant and who wins the individual battles could be the player who leads his team to victory in the series.
Game 1 on Saturday will go a long way to decide who will win the series. Both teams will try to set the tempo early and impose their will. Houston has the momentum, the depth and the defense that travels.
The Lakers have LeBron, shooting and the hope that if they hold onto the rope long enough, Doncic and Reaves can return to rescue them later in the series.
We’re about 24 hours away from game one! Before the Minnesota Timberwolves begin on their postseason quest, let’s review their performance throughout the 82-game regular season. We had 42 voters chime in on their player grades as well as what they think will happen in the playoffs in…
(Note: Canis Pulsus Vol. 48 data was collected through 4/15)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – APRIL 5: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves smiles after the game against the Charlotte Hornets on April 5, 2026 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 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 David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Ant finishes the season with an A- grade, right around where he was all season. It feels like while Edwards leveled up in certain areas of his game, while there’s still some glaring holes in other areas. Worst of all, this was the most amount of games he’s missed in a season. He missed 21 games with a good chunk of those coming near the end of the season. As they say, the Wolves will only go as far as Ant can take them.
Full voting results:
Julius Randle
B (33.3% each)
Quarter 1: B+ (38.2%) Semester 1: A / B+ (31.9% each) Quarter 3: B (28%)
If you had to plot Julius Randle’s effectiveness throughout the season, it would look like a damn seismograph. High peaks early, immediately turning into low valleys, spiking up and down the rest of the way. Randle almost got the Andrew Wiggins “The Best Ability to Availability” award had he not been shut down for the final three games of the season for rest. His Hyde and Jekyll tendencies will be a huge factor in the postseason.
Full voting results:
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – MARCH 25: Jaden McDaniels #3 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on against the Houston Rockets in the third quarter at Target Center on March 25, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Rockets 110-108 in overtime. 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. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It felt like Jaden was having a career-best season, especially early on. Despite some regression later in the year, Slim still finished with career-highs in scoring, shooting, and playmaking. The consistency must improve if he truly wants to emerge as that long-term second star next to Ant that many are hoping for. Perhaps most importantly, his mental game must keep improving. We had a fair share of “Jaden getting lost in the game” due the return of foul issues or other shenanigans.
Full voting results:
Rudy Gobert
B+ (31%)
Quarter 1: B+ (35.3%) Semester 1: A (33.3%) Quarter 3: A (28%)
Rudy finished the season as the league-leader in field goal percentage. He was fairly consistent and reliable as that “floor raiser” the Wolves have become used to. Gobert will surely end up on another All-Defensive team after a solid season. Opponents keep trying him in isolation situations, and they keep failing. Rudy did struggle at the charity stripe this season though, reverting to his first sub-60% season in 10 years.
Full voting results:
Donte DiVincenzo
B (35.7%)
Quarter 1: B (35.3%) Semester 1: B (34.7%) Quarter 3: B+ (36%)
The real Mr. 82 has been solidly “good” all season. Sometimes great, sometimes not so much, but for the most part, consistent. Donte saw a spike in playing time this season, averaging a career-high 30.4 minutes per game. He launched and sank more three-pointers than he did in his first season with Minnesota, but the efficiency has ticked down at all three levels. No matter how his stroke is feeling, the Big Ragu always is going to put his body on the line and make the hustle plays.
Full voting results:
DALLAS, TEXAS – MARCH 30: Ayo Dosunmu #13 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on during the third quarter of the game against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on March 30, 2026 in Dallas, 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. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Ayo Dosunmu
A (42.9%)
Quarter 3: B+ (28%)
Ayo received the highest grade of any player and it’s much deserved. In just 26 games with the Wolves, Dosunmu notched 14.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game on elite shooting splits (.521/.414/.925). He has simply been amazing and will hopefully be a part of the Timberwolves organization for a long, long time. He’s truly one of the biggest X-factors for Minnesota in their postseason run.
What a rollercoaster of a season it’s been for Naz. It began with a really tough start to the season on the heels of a heart-breaking family tragedy. He eventually found his form as the year progressed, but has been dealing with a bevy of injuries recently. Naz is trying to get right before the postseason starts because he will play a big role in Minnesota’s success.
Full voting results:
DETROIT, MI – APRIL 2: Kyle Anderson #12 of the Minnesota Timberwolves handles the ball during the game against the Detroit Pistons on April 2, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. 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 Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Kyle Anderson
B+ (31.7%)
The Wolves welcomed back their Chinese-Jamaican King! SlowMo has been deployed early and often by Coach Finch. After playing just 24 of 57 possible games this season between Utah and Memphis, Anderson played in 19 of 21 possible games with Minnesota. He’s picked up almost exactly where he left off on the defensive end of the court. You can bet he’s going to see the court during the postseason.
Full voting results:
Mike Conley
C- (28.6%)
Quarter 1: C (29.4%) Semester 1: C- (23.9%) Quarter 3: C (30.6%)
Minnesota Mike played in 46 of the Wolves first 60 games, which included a 2-3 week vacation during the NBA trade deadline. Then he essentially received 12 straight healthy scratches after that. Conley has since found opportunities on the court amid Minnesota’s injury spell, and he has taken advantage of those opportunities. Most importantly, he’s hit 45.2% of his three-pointers after shooting just 31.1% earlier in the season. Can he have one more magic (Mike) moment in the playoffs?
Full voting results:
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – MARCH 25: Bones Hyland #8 of the Minnesota Timberwolves celebrates against the Houston Rockets in the third quarter at Target Center on March 25, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Rockets 110-108 in overtime. 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. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Bones has been a revelation for the Wolves this year. Not quite as consistent or versatile as the other half of Twin Turbos, Hyland has provided much-needed bench scoring amid Naz Reid’s struggles. He’s having the most efficient season scoring the ball and is a spark plug that galvanizes both his teammates and fans. The Skelly Celly has also taken a grip around all of Minnesota.
There were a lot of high hopes for Clark County’s role this year. The defensive hole that Nickeil Alexander-Walker left behind was one that many thought Clark could step into, and despite some early season success, has found himself in a bit of a doghouse. Finch has only played Jaylen in 14 of the team’s final 22 games, and under 10 minutes in half of those games. The infamous stat of the Wolves record when Clark plays 15 minutes of more concludes at 20-5, for now.
Full voting results:
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – APRIL 12: Terrence Shannon Jr. #1 reacts as Joe Ingles #7 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on against the New Orleans Pelicans in the fourth quarter at Target Center on April 12, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Pelicans 132-126. 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. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images
TJ Shannon, similar to Clark, was expected to have a significant role with the Wolves this season. Unfortunately, he floundered early. He received just a C+ grade for the Quarter 1 Progress Report, then went missing in action due to a nagging foot injury for the next two quarters of the season. Shannon finished with a bang in this final quarter. Well, more like his final three games, where he averaged 27.3 points on 55.6% shooting from the floor. TJ sunk 3.3 threes and 7.3 free throws during that stretch, just a glimpse of his full potential.
The 19-year-old Frenchman appeared in 40 regular season games, but just double-digit minutes in seven of those games. Finch has been very selective with how he’s deployed the rookie much to the fans chagrin. There’s been enough flashes to be optimistic about his near-term and long-term future. Joan dominated by averaging a double-double in 11 G League games with Iowa, so hopefully we can see him continue next season with Minnesota.
Full voting results:
MINNEAPOLIS, MN. – APRIL 2026: Minnesota Timberwolves forward Joe Ingles (7) basket in the second quarter at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn., on Sunday, April 12, 2026. Minnesota Timberwolves vs. New Orleans Pelicans, final regular season game. (Photo by Carlos Gonzalez/The Minnesota Star Tribune via Getty Images) | Star Tribune via Getty Images
Joe Ingles played basketball! Well, 5.7 minutes in 27 games may not seem like much, that’s actually more than the 19 games he appeared in a season ago. Joe is always bringing the good vibes and as the kids say, “Unc still got it!” In his only non-garbage time game of the season, Ingles posted 15 points, 6 boards, and 10 assists against the Pelicans in game 82! A+ for Joe.
The three two-way players and Julian Phillips each had strong seasons and performances with the Iowa Wolves, helping them end their 11-year playoff drought. They didn’t have any true opportunities to play a meaningful role with the Timberwolves, but if you want to hear more about their seasons, check out my Iowa Wolves coverage.
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – APRIL 07: Head coach Chris Finch of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on in the first quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on April 07, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Every year, we hear the “Fire Finch” chants. Every year, he proves how silly that would’ve been. This hasn’t been a banner regular season for Chris Finch, but is it all his fault? There’s fervent voices on both sides of this argument, but he has notched the same record with the Wolves as he did last season. There’s been considerably more injuries and roster losses, though many still thought Minnesota should’ve taken a step forward.
Full voting results:
Front office
A (28.6%)
Quarter 1: B (29.4%) Semester 1: A- (31.9%) Quarter 3: A (28.6%)
The front office did a great job at the trade deadline and putting together the Twin Turbos. Hindsight always makes it easy to nitpick though. Choosing Naz over NAW. Choosing Rob Dillingham. But in the meantime, the Wolves still have a lot of value on their roster and have the opportunity to keep the core together long-term this summer. There may be a lot of changes in the offseason, but Tim Connelly has done well once again.
Full voting results:
MINNEAPOLIS, MN. – APRIL 2026 Kevin Garnett acknowledges the crowd at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn., on Sunday, April 12, 2026. Behind Garnett is his daughter Kavalli. The Hall of Fame forward and all-time franchise leader in nearly every major statistical category walked into the arena after player introductions, receiving a roar from the crowd and patting his heart with his hand. Garnett, who had a falling out with previous owner Glen Taylor after his career was over, reached an agreement last year with the team to serve as an ambassador. His No. 21 jersey will be retired at a later date. Minnesota Timberwolves vs. New Orleans Pelicans, final regular season game. (Photo by Carlos Gonzalez/The Minnesota Star Tribune via Getty Images) | Star Tribune via Getty Images
Ownership
A (26.8% each)
Quarter 1: B (26.5%) Semester 1: A (31.9%) Quarter 3: A / B+ (20% each)
Wolves fans finally got to enjoy the return of Kevin Garnett at Target Center. It was a beautiful night of basketball with a ton of highlights from the young guys and good vibes all around. Ownership has done their part to make fans enjoy the overall experience this season, but they may need to consider how to get them in the seats with the decline of attendance and rising prices.
Full voting results:
What will be the result of the round one Denver Nuggets matchup?
Wolves in 7 (28.6%)
The result is not too surprising with just 59.5% of voters going with the Timberwolves. There was a dueling pair of 21.4% of votes for Wolves in 6 and Nuggets in 6. Either way, fans are expecting a long and drawn out series between two teams who are 14-14 against each other in all-time postseason games.
Full voting results:
The key for the Timberwolves to defeat the Nuggets is…
Defense and limiting Jamal Murray
More than half the responses included locking in on the defensive end and limiting the non-Jokić players, particularly Jamal Murray. In his four regular season matchups against Minnesota this year, Murray averaged 31.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 7.3 assists. That’s pretty good. The Wolves cannot simply rely on one of two players to slow him down though, as it will be a total team effort.
My hot take from the Wolves-Nuggets series is…
No ice packs will be harmed this time around
In case you forgot, Jamal Murray threw objects onto the court from the bench during a live play that could’ve severely injured players, yet received nothing but a fine.
I was glad to see there was a voter who felt certain that this wouldn’t be the case this time. Some other interesting answers included:
Jokic will not get a triple double
TJ Shannon will provide solid bench scoring
Jaden McDaniels will average more than 20 points per game
Ayo will be too much for Denver to handle
Kyle Anderson will have a triple-double
Jamal Murray crashes out
Chris Finch will get out coached again and his seat will be burning hot
Core vs non-core for next season will become obvious
DENVER, COLORADO – MARCH 1: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves celebrates the win against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena on March 1, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. 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. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images) | Getty Images
With the regular season over, my feelings on the direction of the Timberwolves are…
Slightly optimistic (61.9%)
Preseason: Very optimistic (63.3%) Quarter 1: Slightly optimistic (61.8%) Semester 1: Very optimistic (70.8%) Quarter 3: Slightly optimistic (54%)
There’s reason to not be overly optimistic considering the difficult task Minnesota has ahead of them. This iteration of the Wolves hasn’t stormed the league, but anything is possible in the playoffs. Will Ant, Jaden, and Naz be at close to full health? Will a fully rested Julius pay dividends? How about the debut of playoff Ayo and Twin Turbos)? There’s plenty of questions ahead.
Full voting results:
The Minnesota Timberwolves finish the season with a 3.19 GPA, just a slight dip from their 3.26 third quarter grades. That’s still an improvement from the 3.05 they finished with last season! Thank you to all who have participated.
CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 16: Cleveland Guardians starting pitcher Parker Messick (77) stands on the mound after pitching eighth no-hit innings to start the ninth inning of the Major League Baseball game between the Baltimore Orioles and Cleveland Guardians on April 16, 2026, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The Guardians got a big opening series win vs. The Orioles last night, featuring fans getting excited about Parker Messick and worried about Cade Smith.
Here’s Zack Meisel’s recap of the no-hit bid from Messick. He extolled Austin Hedges’ work behind the plate:
Stephen Vogt talked a little about Cade’s struggles:
“I think Cades still not 100% where he needs to be, and he knows that… their at bats off him tonight were unbelievable”#Guardians manager Stephen Vogt on Cade Smith’s outing#GuardsBall x @WEWSpic.twitter.com/2PUq0oF93z
There are plenty of recent Stanley Cup winners in the field, such as the Vegas Golden Knights (2023), Colorado Avalanche (2022) and Tampa Bay Lightning (2020, 2021).
And there are teams that are back in the hunt after long absences, such as the Buffalo Sabres, Anaheim Ducks, Utah Mammoth, Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins.
So who survives the four-round grind and gets to skate around the ice with the Stanley Cup in June? USA TODAY's Mike Brehm, Jace Evans and Kevin Skiver make their predictions:
Stanley Cup Final: Colorado Avalanche vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
Stanley Cup winner: Colorado Avalanche
Playoff MVP: Nathan MacKinnon
Yes, I know that the Presidents' Trophy winner rarely wins the Stanley Cup, but this Avalanche team is deep and has run the gauntlet before. The same applies to the Lightning. Both teams are coached by Stanley Cup winners who know how to push the right buttons. The Avalanche will prevail again in a rematch of the 2022 Stanley Cup Final.
Jace Evans, USA TODAY
Stanley Cup Final: Montreal Canadiens vs. Edmonton Oilers
Stanley Cup winner: Edmonton Oilers
Playoff MVP: Connor McDavid
Canada, rejoice! Your drought will end! Or, I think it will, anyways. Yes, I am putting a lot of faith in the Connor Ingram (or Tristan Jarry!) Experience in net, but I am also putting my faith in Connor McDavid, the best player in the NHL. He just wrapped up his sixth scoring title and has led the playoffs in scoring three of the past four seasons. He's a proven postseason performer in the prime of his career. You could say the same for Leon Draisaitl, assuming he's on the verge of a return. The biggest factor for Edmonton, though, might be its potential postseason path — the Pacific Division road is the smoothest, on paper.
Kevin Skiver, USA TODAY
Stanley Cup Final: Dallas Stars vs Tampa Bay Lightning
Stanley Cup winner: Dallas Stars
Playoff MVP: Mikko Rantanen
The Stars have been knocking on the door in the playoffs for a while, but something in the West has continued to hold them back. This year, they harness that experience and get over the hump to win the Stanley Cup, overcoming a Lightning team with a wealth of experience itself.
Since Montreal Canadiens’ sniper Cole Caufield climbed up the goal scorer list to eventually come short of catching up to Colorado Avalanche ace Nathan MacKinnon, who currently has 53 goals with one game to play, there have been a lot of comments about the nature of the Rocket Richard Trophy winner-to-be’s goals. Many have lamented the fact that the leading scorer has eight empty-netters to his name this season, while Caufield has none.
If empty netters were removed from the equation, the Habs’ leading goal scorer would be first in the league with 51 goals, followed by MacKinnon with 45 goals, and a pair of Dallas Stars forwards, Jason Robertson and Wyatt Johnston, who both have 44 goals.
While that’s an interesting stat, it just doesn’t matter. The Rocket Richard trophy was created to reward the league’s top scorer, the player who got the puck across the goal line the most times. Whichever way you look at it, that’s the way it’s defined in the NHL, and there had never been chatter about taking empty netters out of the equation before this season.
Whichever way you score a goal, it’s a goal, and it counts, as long as it’s in the game. The same cannot be said about the shootout, but that’s a whole different animal since it’s not during an actual game, but rather in what amounts to a one-on-one duel.
While an argument can be made about empty netters being easier to score, the same could probably be said about overtime goals, which are scored while playing three-on-three, which some would say is not proper hockey. Caufield leads the league in overtime goals this season with five, while MacKinnon has only one.
It’s easy to understand the Canadiens’ fanbase’s disappointment with the fact that Caufield was ultimately unable to win the Trophy that commemorates the career of one of the biggest names in Habs’ history, but the American is still young and in the early stages of his career. He’s 25 years old and has only played 368 NHL games so far; there are plenty more to come, and he won’t forget how to score goals. Patience, Canadiens’ fans, Caufield will be in the conversation for that trophy for years to come, and something tells me it’s only a matter of time before he captures it.
The Philadelphia Flyers made the Stanley Cup playoffs largely through hard work and discipline, and one veteran leader took the discipline part literally.
Going back to the Olympic break, the Flyers have been one of the least disciplined teams in the NHL with one of the least effective penalty kills, and special teams would have cost them a playoff spot if they didn't tread carefully.
According to Natural Stat Trick, the Flyers gave up 19 goals on the penalty kill over their last 26 games of the season, which is the fourth-most in the NHL dating back to Feb. 22.
Travis Sanheim, a penalty kill mainstay and the Flyers' No. 1 defenseman, went the entire final 26 games of the season without taking a single penalty.
That streak led to him playing 79:33 shorthanded, 16 minutes more than the next-closest player, Cam York, who played 63:25.
Over the course of the full season, Sanheim allowed 7.98 goals against per 60 minutes while shorthanded, while Rasmus Ristolainen (8.14), York (9.13), Emil Andrae (15.67), and Jamie Drysdale (15.98) were all more porous to varying degrees.
With that math in mind, we can only imagine how much worse the Flyers' penalty kill would have been without Sanheim.
In addition to keeping Andrae and Drysdale off the ice for special teams purposes, Sanheim's play had an impact on the overall lineup, too.
Much to the chagrin of Flyers fans, head coach Rick Tocchet had a penchant for substituting Andrae out with veteran Noah Juulsen specifically to utilize the latter on the penalty kill when needed.
But, from Feb. 22 to Game 82, Andrae led all Flyers defensemen in Corsi per 60 (53.6), Corsi percentage (52.08%), expected goals percentage (57.15%), scoring chance percentage (53.88%), and high-danger Corsi percentage (59.34%) at 5-on-5.
So, because Sanheim simply stayed out of the box and played hard for the final 26 games, a ripple effect occurred that benefitted the entire Flyers team.
Andrae, despite playing 69 minutes less at 5-on-5 than every other Flyers regular on defense, was one of their most effective, and he may not have gotten the opportunity if the disciplinary issues and lackluster penalty kill had gotten any worse.
In such an event, it would have been very easy to tempt Tocchet into turning to a trusted veteran when the stakes were highest.
Instead, Tocchet and the Flyers regularly iced their best lineup and reaped the rewards, culminating in their first playoff berth since 2020.
Sanheim, while not overly vocal, did his job as a respected leader on this team and led the defense by example.
The results followed, and now the Flyers get to compete for a Stanley Cup.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 16: Blaze Alexander #23 of the Baltimore Orioles reacts after striking out swinging during the sixth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on April 16, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Good morning, Camden Chatters.
Remember four days ago, when the Orioles were in first place? It was fun while it lasted. The momentum arrow has swung decisively downward since then, with the O’s suffering three straight losses to drop back under .500 for the season.
Last night in Cleveland, the Orioles didn’t just lose. They nearly ended up a patsy for their opponent’s bid for the history books. Guardians rookie Parker Messick, making just his 11th major league start, kept the O’s hitless into the ninth inning. The Birds were on the brink of being no-hit for the first time since Hisashi Iwakuma in August 2015. Messick is having a sensational year in the early goings, but the Orioles’ performance last night didn’t make fans feel much better about the erratic O’s offense thus far. John Beers recapped all the action, of which there wasn’t much.
If there’s room for positivity, it should be noted that the Birds put up a heck of a fight in that ninth inning. Leody Taveras broke up the no-no with a leadoff single, and three other Orioles strung together hits after him, plating a pair of runs as the Guardians were forced to turn to their closer, Cade Smith. In fact the O’s might well have tied the game if not for a game-ending diving stop at second base by Juan Brito that robbed Samuel Basallo of a hit. What a comeback that would have been. I suppose the Orioles already used up their “no hits for eight innings followed by an incredible game-winning rally in the ninth” magic on Yoshinobu Yamamoto last year. You can’t expect lightning to strike twice.
Perhaps that ninth-inning eruption can serve as a spark plug for the O’s offense to put up some runs for the rest of this series. At least they won’t have to worry about facing Parker Messick again (not until the O’s host the Guardians in September, anyway). Whatever it takes, it’s time to start stringing some Ws together. The Orioles have been hovering around mediocrity for a while now. If they’re planning to take a step forward, any chance they can do it soon?
Guardians skipper Stephen Vogt arranged a welcome-home prank for his BFF Craig Albernaz that poked fun at his diminutive stature. As someone who is the same height as Albernaz, I must object. I only sometimes use kid-sized furniture.
It’s been a steep fall for Chayce McDermott, one of the Orioles’ top pitching prospects a couple of years ago who’s now being shipped off for a DSL lottery ticket. Knowing the Dodgers, they’ll of course transform McDermott into an elite reliever.
Watching Rico Garcia pitch this year, you’d never believe that six teams gave up on him, including the Orioles themselves four years ago. Let’s ride this wave however long it lasts.
A bit of advice for the Orioles offense: next time, maybe start getting hits before the ninth inning?
Orioles birthdays and history
Is today your birthday? Happy birthday! Three former Orioles were born on this day: right-hander Logan Gillaspie (29), third baseman Craig Worthington (61), and catcher Dave Huppert (69).
On this date in 1965, in a game at Fenway Park, O’s starter Robin Roberts was knocked out of the game after just two innings, giving up five runs. He was replaced by a 19-year-old right-hander who’d signed with the Orioles as an amateur free agent the previous August. The youngster issued a pair of walks and threw a wild pitch but made it through two scoreless innings in his major league debut. His name was Jim Palmer, and one legendary, 19-year career later, he joined Roberts in the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
And on this day in 1993, the Orioles somehow ended up with three runners at third base at the same time. With the bags full, Mike Devereaux hit a sinking liner to center that was trapped by the Angels’ Chad Curtis. Jeff Tackett, thinking the ball was caught, headed back to third base, while Brady Anderson jogged from second to third and Chito Martinez motored all the way over from first to third. The Angels tagged the three runners and easily completed a double play. (The only reason it wasn’t a triple play is because there was already one out.)
Random Orioles game of the day
On April 17, 1959, the Orioles beat the visiting Washington Senators, 4-3, at Memorial Stadium. O’s starter Milt Pappas went the distance, holding the Senators to three runs. The Birds trailed 3-1 in the sixth before Jim Finigan’s two-run single knotted the score, and the O’s took the lead in the eighth when Washington walked the bases loaded to set up a Gene Woodling sacrifice fly. A 22-year-old Brooks Robinson did not start but came in as a defensive replacement in the ninth.
Sep 10, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; General view of the helmet used by the Milwaukee Brewers before the start of the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-Imagn Images | Stan Szeto-Imagn Images
Greetings, Brew Crew Ball community. The Brewers had a rough week, as they were swept by the Nationals and battled with the reigning AL Champion Toronto Blue Jays this week. They’re now back on the road, as they’ll head to Miami and Detroit this week.
Feel free to use this thread to chat about (almost) anything you want: video games, food, movies, non-baseball sports, the Brewers, you name it. As long as it’s appropriate and is allowed by our moderators, it’s fair game here.
Apr 15, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies infielder Bryce Harper (42) rounds the bases after hitting a home run against the Chicago Cubs in the ninth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images | Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
Things are a bit tense in the Phillies fanbase. A series victory against the Braves would do a lot to remedy that. A series loss against them would do a lot to make things tenser.
It’s a three game series, so those are the only two options.
Free of charge for the discerning reader.Happy birthday toCap Ansonand a mighty host of others, plus more baseball stories, such as the first pro game, Jackie’s first hit, Sam Snead’s big hit, Mickey LOVED Washington, and the debuts of Clemente, Aparicio, Drysdale and Frank Robinson.
Today in baseball history:
1869 – The first professional baseball game ever played sees the Cincinnati Red Stockings defeat the rival Cincinnati Amateurs, 24-15.
1951 – Golf great Sam Snead tees off from home plate and hits the center field scoreboard at Wrigley Field before the Cubs’home opener. The Associated Press reports: “Sammy Snead settled a long-standing argument today over whether a golf ball could be driven from home plate over the towering scoreboard at Wrigley Field. It can, by a golfer like Sam. Wearing street clothes, Snead sent a ball zooming well over the scoreboard with a No. 2 iron after hitting the board with a swing with a No. 4 iron. Snead calculated the carry was 175 yards. The scoreboard rises 89 feet in the air some 50 feet behind the 400-mark on the centerfield wall.”
1974 – C George Mitterwald has a career day in leading the Cubs to an 18-9 win over the Pirates. He goes 4-for-4 with a walk, a double, three homers, and eight RBI. The next Cub catcher to hit three homers in a game will be Dioner Navarro, in 2013.
1976 – At Wrigley Field, Mike Schmidt leads a Philadelphia Phillies assault with a single, four home runs in consecutive at-bats, and eight RBI to overcome a 12 – 1 deficit after three innings and beat the Chicago Cubs in 10 innings, 18-16. The Cubs tie the game in the ninth after the Phillies have taken a 15 – 13 lead. Hitting .167 going into the game, Schmidt connects for two homers off Rick Reuschel, one off Mike Garman, and the last, a two-run shot off Reuschel’s brother Paul in the 10th inning. Schmidt also becomes the first National League player in modern times to hit four home runs in a row.
858 – Benedict III’s reign as Catholic Pope ends with his death.
1492 – Christopher Columbus signs a contract with Spanish monarchs King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I to find the “Indies” with the stated goal of converting people to Catholicism. This promises him 10% of all riches found and the governorship of any lands encountered.
1853 – US Marine Hospital at Presidio, San Francisco forms.
1860 – Champion of England Tom Sayers and American John Heenan fight a brutal 2-hour, 27-minute draw that ends only after police stop the fight near Farnborough in England, acknowledged as the first world title bout.
1875 – Modern snooker is invented by Sir Neville Chamberlain, a bored British officer in Jabalpur, India.
1993 – Two Los Angeles police officers convicted in federal court of violating Rodney King‘s civil rights and sentenced to prison, while two others are acquitted, leading to the L. A. Riots. When the riots ended six days later, 63 people had been killed, 2,383 had been injured, more than 12,000 had been arrested, and estimates of property damage were over $1 billion.
2015 – American jazz composer and saxophonist John Coltrane is awarded a posthumous Special Citation by the Pulitzer Prize board.
2015 – Marianne Winkler finds “message in a bottle” on the shore of the German island of Amrum; it had been dropped in the North Sea by British marine scientist George Parker Bidder on November 30th, 1906, making its length of time spent adrift 108 years, 138 days
KMOX’s pre/post-game host Matt Pauley sets the stage for us for the Astros upcoming weekend series vs. St. Louis.
Q: Is Jordan Walker now the face of the franchise?
A: Interesting question. I’m not sure I’d say he’s the face just yet, but his start to the season has been spectacular.
He was literally one of the worst hitters in baseball the last couple of years, and I’d heard from fans and they were ready to move on from him, but now seeing what he’s doing, it’s unexpected. Some felt even coming out of spring training that he should’ve been optioned to AAA Memphis.
On Monday night, he hit his 8th home run in the first 16 games of this season. The only Cardinals players to accomplish that feat in team history are Stan Musial, Mark McGwire, Scott Rolen and Albert Pujols. He’s in rare air.
Q: Did you think J.J. Wetherholt would be this strong defensively?
A: No, I didn’t. His reputation is being an incredible hitter, so to see what he’s doing, especially going to his left, he’s getting just about everything which has been a surprise.
Q: One of the worst words in sports is “rebuild”. Are the Cardinals fully immersed in that process?
A: This is the first true rebuild year. Prior, they were trying to serve two masters. Last year didn’t work.
This is the first time in a while that there’s been clear intention of what they’re doing. It doesn’t mean they won’t be competitive. I know in talking to you, you lived through it in Houston 15 years ago. That was a complete and total tear down.
Q: Who will we see in this weekend series for the Cardinals’ starters taking the mound?
A: It will be a mix of Kyle Leahy, who actually throws six different pitches. He has a nice repertoire as someone coming from the bullpen originally.
Andre Pallante last year really struggled. He’s added a changeup but struggled against Boston recently. You’ll also see Matthew Liberatore, who is the leader of the rotation. He was the opening day starter. They believe he can be the guy to lead this staff.
The Detroit Tigers are on a roll after a perfect 6-0 homestand that erased a five-game losing streak and put them over the .500 mark for the first time since late March. Next up on the agenda are the Boston Red Sox, who will host the Motor City Kitties for a four-game series at Fenway Park starting on Friday night.
The BoSox got off to a slow start to the 2026 campaign, dropping five straight after their season-opening win at the Cincinnati Reds, but have since earned series wins over the Milwaukee Brewers and St. Louis Cardinals. Boston enters the weekend coming off a series loss at the Minnesota Twins, but it did prevent a sweep with a win on Wednesday’s finale.
Opening things up on the mound for the Olde English D is right-hander Casey Mize, whose trademark splitter appears to be finally reaching its long-awaited potential. Opposite him is lefty Ranger Suarez, who has had modest success so far this season.
Make note that Friday night’s tilt will be broadcast on AppleTV, while Monday’s matchup starts at an eye-rubbingly early 11:10 a.m. ET.
Detroit Tigers (10-9) vs. Boston Red Sox (7-11)
Time (ET): 7:15 p.m. Place: Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts SB Nation Site:Over the Monster Media: AppleTV,Tigers Radio Network
Game 20: RHP Casey Mize (1-1, 3.94 ERA) vs. LHP Ranger Suarez (1-1, 5.02 ERA)
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 18: Assistant General Manager, Head of Analytics Sunny Mehta for the Florida Panthers poses for his official headshot for the 2024-2025 NHL season on September 18, 2024 at the Baptist Health IcePlex in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Eliot J. Schechter/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images
Mehta will be the hockey operations decision maker for the Devils. No immediate decisions on head coach Sheldon Keefe or any other staff. He will take time to evaluate. Media conference for introduction on Tuesday.
“The biggest takeaway from the New Jersey Devils‘ exit interviews is the one that didn’t happen. Star defenseman Dougie Hamilton ‘politely declined’ to interview with the media, remaining in hiding after his agent went public this winter with displeasure over a healthy scratch.” [New Jersey Hockey Now]
“I don’t think it’s hyperbole to say that this is the most crucial offseason the organization has had in years. They have to get the front office structure right, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. There are quite a few big decisions ahead for the next GM, and that should lead to an offseason of intrigue in the Garden State.” [Devils on the Rush]
“…We have spent the past few weeks canvassing many of the top player agents in hockey for their thoughts on key big-picture questions from around the league. In all, The Athletic polled more than 20 agents, who combine to represent hundreds of NHL player contracts worth billions of dollars, on nine key questions facing the league and its future.” [The Athletic ($)]
“Auston Matthews avoided playing fortune teller when addressing his career moving forward long-term with the Maple Leafs. Toronto’s captain met with the media Thursday following the Leafs’ final regular-season game the night before, a loss to Ottawa that signaled the end of a lost season for Toronto. Matthews wasn’t in the lineup — he has been sidelined by a torn MCL since mid-March — but with the Leafs heading into a transitional phase after missing their first postseason since 2016-17, Matthews was noncommittal on what lies ahead for him in Toronto.” [ESPN]
“Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin said he’s ‘pretty sure’ that Tuesday’s season finale at Columbus won’t be his last game, as the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer contemplates retirement.” [ESPN]
Feel free to discuss these and any other hockey-related stories in the comments below.
