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Red Sox News & Links: Hit Piece Week rolls on in the wake of Alex Cora’s firing

Boston, MA - October 6: Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora, chief baseball officer Craig Breslow and President/CEO Sam Kennedy listen to a question during the Red Sox end-of-season press conference with team leadership at Fenway Park on October 6, 2025. (Photo by Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) | Boston Globe via Getty Images

Red Sox Hit Piece Week rolls on, everyone! Today it’s Alex Speier, arguably the current dean of the Red Sox beat, who has a big piece diving into the ways that the relationship between Craig Breslow and Alex Cora slowly fractured over the past few years. The juiciest nugget in this one? “Breslow contemplated significant changes to the coaching staff and especially the hitting group (including Fatse ― beloved by players: ‘Top, top hitting mind and work ethic in the hitting world,’ said one) both during and after the 2025 season… [W]hen Breslow raised the idea of staff change to Cora, the manager made his feelings clear: If Breslow wanted to do so, he’d have to fire Cora.“ (Alex Speier, Boston Globe)

And it’s clear that Breslow’s desire to fire the coaching staff last season wasn’t merely a case of a CBO wanting to bring in his own guys — there were meaningful conflicts about how best to do the job: “At one point last year… Breslow asked the Red Sox coaching staff to begin documenting every pregame hitting and defensive drill done by each player, which some coaches found excessive and time consuming, further fueling a perceived lack of trust between the staff and the front office.” Moreover, one unnamed player credits Alex Bregman with, at one point, stepping in to defend the hitting coaches and protect their jobs. (Jen McCaffrey, The Athletic)

Following his dismissal, Cora was given a chance to pen a farewell email to the Red Sox staff. Here it is. (Chris Cotillo, MassLive)

Many of the players appear to still be taking the dismissals hard. And that doesn’t just apply to Alex Cora. Connor Wong spoke out about losing Jason Varitek, who he says was “like a dad” to the whole team. (Christopher Smith, MassLive)

Given the age discrepancy, it would be pretty weird if Terry Francona said Varitek or Cora were like dads to him, but he did say that Alex Cora is “one of my favorite people in the world.” (Connor Ryan, Boston.com)

We have no idea how John Henry feels about Alex Cora, because John Henry continues to refuse to acknowledge the general public that funds his baseball team. But Sam Kennedy defended his boss’s silence: “John Henry is deeply engaged with this organization… he doesn’t always do it in the most public-facing way. He’s very selective in terms of how he engages with the media, but that should not ever be confused with a lack of involvement or care.” (Scott McLaughlin, WEEI)

With all of the former Red Sox players speaking out (though anonymously in many cases), you may have thought that Mookie Betts would get involved. But, naturally, Mookie is too smart for that:

Meanwhile, there is still baseball to be played and the Red Sox didn’t exactly cover themselves in glory up in Toronto this week. That certainly applies to Brayan Bello, who was demonstrably upset about being removed from the game by Chad Tracy yesterday. (Christopher Smith, MassLive)

Besides Tracy, here’s a look at some of the other new faces in the Red Sox dugout (Amin Touri, Boston Globe)

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Mike Schmidt on struggling Phillies’ and firing managers

NEW YORK, NY - UNDATED: Mike Schmidt #20 of the Philadelphia Phillies hits a home run during a game against the New York Mets at Shea Stadium in the New York City borough of Queens, New York on an unspecified date. (MLB Photos) | MLB via Getty Images

As fans continue to digest the news of Rob Thomson’s dismissal as Phillies manager, at least one legendary member of the franchise isn’t wild about the idea of firing a manager so early in the season.

Speaking to me on Monday, prior to Thomson’s firing, for my Hittin’ Season podcast, powered by WHYY, Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt said, as a player, letting go of the skipper at this juncture of the season is a bad look for the players in the clubhouse.

“I think letting the manager and coaches go is an embarrassing thing to the players,” Schmidt said. “They feel bad enough. And Rob, I think Rob is a fantastic manager.”

Thomson was let go after parts of five seasons as the Phils’ manager, coming off back-to-back NL East championships but also a string of disappointing postseasons and a 9-19 record and the worst run differential in Major League Baseball. Schmidt says the players are acutely aware of their role in this situation.

“They know what’s going on. The media doesn’t need to tell them. They feel awful.”

Schmist says the team is the victim of a small sample size.

“I looked at the box score the other day with the batting averages going up and down the box score, and they were horrendous, actually. That will all change over time. A month and a half from now, that will change. They can’t continue to lose at this rate. They just can’t. They’ll start winning 2 out of 3, 3 out of 4, and the confidence will come back, the players will start to feel it.

You’ve got to get rid of this sense of focusing on how many they’ve lost in a row and start thinking, ‘I hope we don’t lose another one’ and start thinking about having fun. When you start losing like that, it’s not necessarily fun to go out and play. It’s hard to describe. People would say, ‘Well they’re paying you $25 million a year, you ought to have fun, right?‘ It doesn’t work that way. Something will happen to change this, they’re just too good.

Before you know it you find yourself creeping back, creeping back to .500 and then boom, next thing you know you’re two or three games over, and you have a whole new lease on life.”

One thing the Phillies have in their favor is playing in an era in which getting off to a dreadfully slow start is more permissible. With three wild card teams and three division winners, teams can rally after a rough first couple months. Schmidt, who never played during a time when more than two division winners in each league made the postseason, is not a fan of a larger postseason field.

“I wouldn’t want to play the way they have it now. We had four. And we only played two rounds, the NLCS and World Series. I much prefer that, without question. But the way it is right now, the Phillies are still going to have to get to 90 wins. Maybe 88. It depends on the NL East. And they are some really good teams out west. San Diego, L.A. You get too far behind the other teams, then it’s hard to even grab one of those last playoff spots. But you can’t worry about that, you got to just go grind every day.”

Regardless of how the 2026 season ends, it appears inevitable that the sport is headed for a lockout once the final pitch of the World Series is thrown. Owners appear determined to push for a salary cap and floor to combat the disparity between ultra-spending teams like the Dodgers and Mets, and the under-spending teams like the Reds, Pirates, A’s and Rays.

“I’d assume [The Player’s Association] would hold strong [on a salary cap]. We did back in ‘76 when free agency was on the table. Players are entitled to make what they can make in a free market. I’m assuming it’ll be a rough off-season this year, as a former player.”

Schmidt is currently engaged in a campaign aimed at educating youth sports participants about the dangers of not using sunscreen while playing sports. Schmidt talked at length about his battle with melanoma as an adult, diagnosed in 2013 with Stage 3, undergoing surgery, immunotherapy and radiation to treat cancer that had spread to his lymph nodes. His desire is for parents and kids to avoid those kinds of troubles with skin cancer as an adult.

“Once it gets to the point it was with me, you can’t say that it won’t come back. Cancer is an awful thing. So I joined the Richard David Kahn Melanoma Foundation and it gives me a chance for me to tell my story. To give back and talk to kids and adults about the dangers of the sun’s rays. Try to convince kids and adults they need to wear protection. We decided to bring it up to Philadelphia, I started a 501c3, the Mike Schmidt Initiative.

So many great things are happening with us, and I’m getting an opportunity to tell my story and hopefully affect as many people as we can. Our mission is to stop skin cancer. That’s what we’re trying to do.“

If you would like to learn more about Mike Schmidt’s history with melanoma and his work with young athletes to prevent skin cancer, visit MelanomaFoundation.com.

You can watch the full interview on WHYY’s YouTube page here.

And catch the entire Hittin’ Season episode here!

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John Wall named President of Basketball Operations at Howard

Jan 29, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Former Washington Wizards guard John Wall looks on before a game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images | Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

Former Washington Wizards star John Wall will become the President of Basketball Operations at Howard University in Washington, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.

Wall, who is currently a studio analyst for Amazon Prime Video’s NBA coverage, has expressed interest in being a front office leader later in his career. He has also worked with Howard recently.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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Cavaliers vs Raptors Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight's NBA Playoffs Game 6

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The Toronto Raptors are not only running out of time in Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs but also running short on bodies.

Toronto heads back home for Game 6 versus the Cleveland Cavaliers, worse for wear and facing elimination. Forward Brandon Ingram is a question mark for Friday after reinjuring his heel, and star Scottie Barnes is hobbled with bum quads.

Those injuries are like blood in the water for Cleveland’s versatile forward Evan Mobley, who’s a tough matchup even with a healthy lineup.

Mobley was strong in the Game 5 win with a focus on getting him the ball, and our Cavaliers vs. Raptors predictions really like his matchups against a crumbling Toronto frontcourt. 

My NBA picks take Mobley to make us money with his points prop on Friday, May 1. 

Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET from Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, with the game airing on Prime Video and TSN. 

  • UPDATE: Added a prediction for who will win tonight.

Cavaliers vs Raptors prediction

Who will win Cavaliers vs Raptors Game 6?

Cavaliers: Cleveland comes to Canada as a short road favorite, and that spread could look different depending on the health of Ingram and Barnes. 

On top of missing Immanuel Quickley, the Raptors just don’t have the depth to plug those holes, especially when it comes to countering the Cavs’ scoring punch.

Cavaliers vs Raptors best bet: Evan Mobley Over 16.5 points (-110)

Evan Mobley had a tough time in Toronto earlier this series, shooting a combined 8-for-24 from the field for tallies of eight and 15 points in Games 3 and 4. 

That output pales in comparison to his postseason work at home, averaging almost 22 points on 71% shooting. However, he catches a break with this next trip to Canada.

The Toronto Raptors’ two best solutions for Mobley’s size and speed are nursing injuries heading into Game 6. Scottie Barnes is limping around with an injured quadriceps, and Brandon Ingram left Game 5 after re-aggravating a heel injury.

That had Toronto’s frontcourt ripe for the picking in the second half of Game 5. The Cleveland Cavaliers came out of the halftime break with a focused effort to feed their bigs, and Mobley, along with center Jarrett Allen, thrived in the closing frames.

Mobley finished with 23 points on 8-for-13 shooting in Game 5, with 16 of those coming on 6-for-8 success in the second half. He also left points on the table with a 4-for-8 finish from the foul line, but still cleared his points prop of 16.5 O/U with ease.

The Cavs went with a smaller rotation in Game 5 to spread the floor and create space. With Ingram questionable, Cleveland can take that approach again on Friday. That allows Mobley to exploit bad matchups, either backing down shorter defenders or facing up bigger ones.

Game models sit between 17.0 and 18 points for the Cavs’ forward. I believe Mobley’s ceiling is much higher, considering Toronto’s injuries and Cleveland’s offense now going through the big man.

Cavaliers vs Raptors same-game parlay

Cleveland has a perfect opportunity to end this series with Toronto hurting coming out of Game 5. This is a quick turnaround with the Raptors’ best player, Scottie Barnes, really limited by a quadriceps injury. The Cavs' inside-out attack drops the dinos in Game 6.

Donovan Mitchell got to put his feet up at the end of Game 5, thanks to Dennis Schroder going off for the Cavs. Mitchell still made three triples in the win and has knocked down at least three 3-pointers in four of the first five games of this series.

Cavaliers vs Raptors SGP

  • Cavaliers moneyline
  • Evan Mobley Over 16.5 points
  • Donovan Mitchell Over 2.5 threes

Our "from downtown" SGP: Notorious B.I.G.'s

The Cavaliers came out feeding their big men in the second half of Game 5. Toronto doesn’t have the bodies to battle that half-court attack, which will slow the pace of this game.

Meanwhile, the Raptors' offense will also be disjointed with Brandon Ingram potentially out and Scottie Barnes limping around the court, unable to create his own shot.

Cavaliers vs Raptors SGP

  • Cavaliers -4
  • Under 220
  • Evan Mobley Over 16.5 points
  • Jarrett Allen Over 10.5 points

Cavaliers vs Raptors odds for Game 6

  • Spread: Cleveland -4 (-110) | Toronto +4 (-110)
  • Moneyline: Cleveland -170 | Toronto +145
  • Over/Under: Over 220 (-110) | Under 220 (-110)

Cavaliers vs Raptors betting trend to know

Totals of 220 points or higher have produced a 4-8 Over/Under record so far in the 2026 NBA Playoffs. Find more NBA betting trends for Cavaliers vs. Raptors.

How to watch Cavaliers vs Raptors Game 6

LocationScotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON
DateFriday, May 1, 2026
Tip-off7:30 p.m. ET
TVPrime Video, TSN

Cavaliers vs Raptors latest injuries

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Reds place Brandon Williamson on injured list with shoulder fatigue

ST. PETERSBURG, FL - APRIL 22: Cincinnati Reds Pitcher Brandon Williamson (55) delivers a pitch to the plate during the regular season game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Tampa Bay Rays on April 22, 2026, at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, FL. (Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Cincinnati Reds lefty Brandon Williamson exited Wednesday evening’s start against the Colorado Rockies after having thrown just 58 pitches across 3.0 IP. It was the latest in a series of frustrating starts for the 28 year old, who for the season has actually walked more hitters (20) than he’s struck out (19).

After the game, it was announced that he was dealing with ‘shoulder fatigue,’ something that’s 100% within the realm of expectations at this point after he missed all of 2025 while rehabbing from Tommy John surgery (and also dealt with shoulder issues before that). The hope, of course, was that it wouldn’t be serious, though the Reds announced on Thursday that Williamson had been placed on the injured list in the wake.

According to AP reporter Jeff Wallner, Williamson received an MRI and the results showed ‘no structural issues,’ which is obviously a great sign.

Reliever Zach “Big Sugar” Maxwell was recalled from AAA Louisville to take his place on the active roster, for now.

Maxwell, of course, is a reliever, and he’ll add depth to the relief corps for the next few days alongside the recently recalled Luis Mey for the time being. What the Reds do when Williamson’s spot in the rotation comes back around remains to be seen, however.

Nick Lodolo shined in his first rehab start with the Dayton Dragons in High-A Midwest League action earlier this week, but he’s slated for a second rehab start on Saturday. So, it’s likely that it won’t be him who is called upon to slide into the starting rotation. Chase Petty, however, is on the 40-man roster and already has had his first cup of coffee at the big league level, and he started last night against the Omaha Storm Chasers for AAA Louisville and would be on regular rest to take a turn in the team’s rotation.

Interestingly enough, Petty was pulled last night after just 62 pitches, firing just 2.1 IP of scoreless 2 hit, 3 walk, 4 K ball.

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Mets news: Robert to the IL, Edwards DFA’d, Warren and Wagaman recalled

Apr 26, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets center fielder Luis Robert Jr. (88) reacts after popping out with the bases loaded in the eighth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images | Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

The Mets announced a flurry of roster moves ahead of their 1:10pm series finale with the Nationals this afternoon in Queens. Luis Robert Jr., who has been sidelined with back issues since Monday, was put on the 10-Day Injured List retroactive to Monday with ‘lumbar spine disc herniation.’ In a corresponding move, Eric Wagaman, who the Mets claimed off of waivers on Monday from the Twins, was recalled.

Wagaman has made 603 plate appearances in parts of two seasons with the Angels and Marlins and has appeared at the corner outfield and infield spots.

On the offensive side of the team, Robert joins Francisco Lindor, Jorge Polanco, and Jared Young on the Injured List.

Carl Edwards Jr, who tossed six solid innings for the Mets in two appearances, was designated for assignment. Austin Warren was recalled to take his spot on the roster.

It is unfortunate to lose Edwards who has been quite good in limited time while the Mets have a number of pitchers on the roster who have not looked nearly as good as Edwards. Because he is out of minor league options, the Mets have to hope that Edwards passes through waivers and does not elect free agency if they want to keep him in the organiation.

Warren has been impressive in his brief major league playing time as well, but the bullpen churn is already becoming an issue when rostering multiple long relievers.

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Knicks vs Hawks Win Probability for Game 6 at Prediction Markets

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The New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks go to war in Game 6 tonight, with New York having a 56% chance of advancing according to prediction markets like Kalshi.

Our Knicks vs. Hawks predictions and free NBA picks have a little more faith in Atlanta getting it done on April 30.

Who will win Knicks vs Hawks Game 6?

Knicks win probability:56% (-127)
Hawks win probability:44% (+127)

Despite being the road team, New York has a 56% chance of ending this series tonight in Atlanta.

Our prediction:Hawks to win

As Knicks fans poured out of MSG after a convincing Game 5 win, the Big Apple crowd chanted, “We want Boston”.

Ah, there’s still at least one more game, folks. New York won’t shoot 57% from the field again, and Atlanta’s outside touch should improve in the friendly confines of State Farm Arena, where it shoots nearly 38% from beyond the arc.

Read more in Jason Logan's full Knicks vs. Hawks predictions.

Start trading with Kalshi today!

Sign up now using our exclusive Kalshi promo code 'COVERS' and get a $10 trading bonus after you trade $10 on any other event contracts — including Knicks/Hawks!

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More Knicks vs Hawks prediction markets

You're certainly not limited to the main game outcome for Knicks vs. Hawks at Kalshi; you also have options to trade on the spread, total, and more, among other NBA odds markets.

You can buy either side of a market — for example, "Yes" on the Knicks -2.5 spread means the Knicks will cover, while "No" means the Hawks will cover — with each side priced based on the implied probability (which can be converted to American, Decimal, or Fraction odds using the Covers odds converter).

Knicks vs Hawks spread and total at prediction markets

OutcomeYesNo
Knicks -2.552¢ (-108)49¢ (+104)
Over 213.5 points53¢ (-112)48¢ (+108)

Our predictions:Knicks -2.5 — No and Over 213.5 points — No

As mentioned, the New York Knicks aren't shooting as well as they did in Game 5. Elimination games are always played tight, and this series is no stranger to Unders.

Other Knicks vs Hawks prediction markets available

  • Jalen Brunson 30+ points (Yes: 40¢)
  • Jalen Johnson 6+ assists (Yes: 53¢)
  • OG Anunoby 8+ rebounds (Yes: 46¢)

What is Kalshi and how does it work?

Kalshi is a federally regulated U.S. exchange where you trade directly on the outcome of real-world future events. Instead of traditional bets, you trade "Event Contracts" which are simple Yes/No questions like "Will the Hawks win tonight?" These events are priced between $0.01 and $0.99, and the prices reflect the market’s estimated probability of that event occurring. For instance, $0.55 equals a 55% chance. If your prediction is correct, the contract pays out exactly $1.00; if not, it settles at $0. Kalshi is essentially a stock market for reality.

How does Kalshi differ from sportsbooks?

In a sportsbook, you bet against the bookmaker, who sets fixed odds and takes a "vig," which is a kind of commission. On Kalshi, you trade against other users. This peer-to-peer model means prices are driven by supply and demand, often resulting in fairer odds. Additionally, because these are financial derivatives, you can exit your position early. If your team takes a 14-point lead, the contract price will rise, allowing you to sell your "Yes" shares for a profit before the final whistle even blows.

Why should I wager on Knicks vs Hawks at Kalshi?

Kalshi offers four unique advantages over traditional sportsbooks:

  1. Flexibility: Unlike a "locked-in" bet, you can sell your contract at any time.

  2. Transparency: You trade against other users, which can allow you to find better value.

  3. Federal regulation: As a CFTC-regulated exchange, your funds are held in a secure, transparent environment.

  4. Availability: Kalshi is available in 49 states (excluding Nevada) and D.C., including many regions where traditional sportsbooks aren't yet legal.

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The Sixers can still win with this version of Joel Embiid

BOSTON, MA - APRIL 28: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers handles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics on April 28, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Imagine not being able to enjoy Joel Embiid’s fantastic Game 5 performance in Boston.

Surely, Sixers fans have been emotionally fatigued after nearly a decade of not getting out of the second round with a slew of different roster iterations centered around Embiid. After last season’s debacle, many of them likely resigned to the team never again being able to seriously contend with Embiid as their best player.

But Tuesday night’s masterpiece from the former MVP should have reminded fans that while Embiid might not be a league MVP ever again, he can still impact winning at a high level. It’s clear to anyone who watches Embiid that he doesn’t have the same burst and athletic ability to be the elite defender he once was. Additionally, it should come as no surprise that the 7.7 rebounds per game that Embiid averaged in the regular season were a career low.

However, for most of the game on Tuesday night, Embiid was doing whatever he wanted to do offensively. In a way, the fact that Embiid had 33 points on 0-of-5 from the three-point line should be even more encouraging for Sixers fans. Embiid did his damage offensively with his midrange jumper, bullying his way through whoever Boston attempted to have guard him and making his free throws. He might not be able to constantly bully his way through opposing bigs in the future, but he could certainly do that once or twice more in this series against Boston and he’s not going to shoot 0-for-5 from the three-point line with regularity either.

What we’re getting at here is that Embiid’s game is still versatile enough offensively to score 30+ points on any given night. If you have someone that talented offensively, then that’s someone that can help you win. The narrative around Embiid this season has shifted a bit too far in a pessimistic direction. All of a sudden, the focal point of Embiid conversations was about how much of a burden his max salary is for the next three seasons that he still has under contract after the current one. His play on the court was basically ignored by the masses just because he wasn’t the MVP candidate he used to be every season.

For both the rest of this series against the Celtics and for next season and beyond, Game 5 in Boston should serve as a reminder of what the Sixers can be with Embiid still playing a pivotal role. It hasn’t happened often for Embiid in his career, but the big man was both the best player on the floor on Tuesday night and he got adequate help from his teammates. Quentin Grimes was excellent off the bench. Paul George defended well and knocked down some shots. Tyrese Maxey helped compensate for Embiid’s rebounding struggles with 10 boards of his own. VJ Edgecombe hit a few open threes. Embiid’s eight assists were no fluke.

It was a team win by a team that has for years needed to win on Embiid’s individual talent more than it should have. Can the Sixers pull out two more of those wins against the Celtics? Well, they should certainly have a lot more confidence. They’ve now won twice in Boston, the first time coming without Embiid even playing. Philadelphia is far from the deepest roster in the NBA, but it does appear as if the non-Embiid players are doing enough to not require Embiid to be Superman every night.

Most of Philly’s role players can go to free agency this summer. It’s possible that the bench is a much different collection of talent on next year’s roster. We should also point out that Kelly Oubre played in 50 games in the regular season and started 41 of them and he too can go to free agency in July. But whether the Sixers bring a lot of this roster back or not next season, fans should feel optimistic that they can give Embiid enough help to at least be competitive and worth watching with Embiid still on the roster. In other words, don’t go into the offseason thinking, “What are we going to do about all the money we still owe to Embiid?!”

As for the rest of the series, just enjoy the fact that there couldn’t be a team still left in the NBA Playoffs with less to lose than the Sixers. No one expected Philly to win this series or even get to a Game 6 for that matter. In previous postseasons, fans have rightfully questioned the team’s effort. They bowed out in embarrassing fashion in Boston in 2023. They laid down in 2022 on their home floor against Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat. We all know how embarrassing the ending of the Atlanta series in 2021 was. Regardless of what happens here, we’ll be able to say that they went down fighting, and finally gave Joel Embiid some much-needed help.   

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Astros Prospect Report: April 29th

WEST PALM BEACH, FL - MARCH 19: Houston Astros outfielder Zach Cole (16) bats during a MLB spring training game against the New York Mets at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches on March 19, 2026 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Doug Murray/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Another day of minor league baseball is in the books. See the results below.

AAA: Sugar Land Space Cowboys (16-13) lost 5-2 (BOX SCORE)

Sugar Land got on the board in the 2nd inning on an Unroe RBI double. Gordon got the start and tossed 3.2 scoreless innings. The offense got another run on an Alexander walk. Mancini struggled out of the pen allowing 4 runs and the Aces picked up one more later. The offense was quiet the rest of the way as Sugar Land fell 5-2.

Note: Nelson is hitting .324 this season.

AA: Corpus Christi Hooks (10-13) lost 10-4 (BOX SCORE)

Pearson made a rehab start for the Hooks but struggled allowing 4 runs over 2 innings. The offense got on the board in the 4th on a Whitaker 2 run double. In the 5th they scored 2 more runs on a Sullivan single and Guillemette groundout. Mayer pitched in relief and allowed 3 runs over 4 innings, though he struck out 8 batters. The pen allowed a couple more runs and the offense was shut down the rest of the way as the Hooks lost 10-4.

Note: Mayer has 25 K in 14 innings this season.

A+: Asheville Tourists (5-18) lost 11-6 (BOX SCORE)

Asheville got on the board in the first inning with a run scoring on a balk. They got 2 more runs in the third on a Frey 2 run HR, his first of the year. Santos got the start and went 5.1 innings allowing 4 runs, 2 earned. Asheville got a run in the 5th on a balk, a run in the 6th on a Cruz sac fly and a run in the 7th on Batista sac fly. The pen struggled though allowing 7 runs and the offense was unable to comeback as Asheville fell 11-6.

Note: Holy is hitting .281 this season.

  • Yeriel Santos, RHP: 5.1 IP, 2 H, 4 R, 2 ER, 3 BB, 6 K
  • Alain Pena, RHP: 1.1 IP, 3 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 2 BB, 0 K
  • Nate Wohlgemuth, RHP: 1.1 IP, 2 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 2 BB, 1 K
A: Fayetteville Woodpeckers (10-13) won 5-1 (BOX SCORE)

The Woodpeckers got on the board in the 2nd inning on a Wakefield RBI single. In the 3rd inning, Neyens added an RBI double. The offense picked up 3 more runs in the 4th on a Ramirez RBI single and Cole 2 run double. Potter got the start and pitched well striking out 3 over 3 scoreless innings. He was relieved by Oakes who allowed 1 run over 4.2 innings while striking out 6. Rosario closed it out with 1.1 scoreless innings.

Note: Neyens has a .831 OPS this season.

Today’s minor league starters:

SL: Jason Alexander – 8:05 CT

CC: James Hicks – 6:35 CT

AV: TBD – 5:35 CT

FV: TBD – 6:05 CT

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Thursday Morning Links

Morning, all!

Wyatt Langford is gearing up for a return this weekend, but weather and other externalities are making it hard for him to get live at bats in either a rehab start or simulated game.

Josh Smith is getting a chance to “reset,” and Ezequiel Duran will be starting at second base for multiple games for the first time this season.

Brandon Nimmo left yesterday’s game with a tight right hamstring but says he isn’t expecting to miss any games because of it.

Nimmo has a history of hamstring issues and says that the important thing is to not try to push through it or it will get worse.

The Rangers chase rate is among the lowest in the league on the road and among the highest in the league at home, leading Evan Grant to ask if Globe Life’s park effects are all in the Rangers’ heads.

Evan Grant looks at the Rangers 15-16 record at the end of April and finds cause for optimism, saying that it was a tough month and we saw things that bode well for the rest of the season.

Nathan Eovaldi pitched the way we expect Nathan Eovaldi to pitch last night, shutting out the Yankees over seven innings and giving the offense a chance to close out the series with a win.

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Knicks may have to play Game Six without key wing

Apr 28, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) defends an in-bounds pass to New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) during the first quarter of game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images

The Knicks heat into Game Six in Atlanta with a chance to close out their first round series, but might have to do so without an essential piece.

Josh Hart exited Tuesday’s 126–97 Game Five humiliation of the Hawks in the fourth quarter and never returned to the bench. Afterward, Mike Brown didn’t have much to offer on the subject. On Wednesday night, New York added Hart to the injury report, listing him as questionable with a lower back contusion.

Hart seemed to tweak something in the first half but gutted it out before being pulled for good with 6:27 left. With the Knicks hammering the Hawks, he probably could have ducked out sooner. Despite the injury, he finished with nine points, five boards, and four assists in just over 30 minutes.

So far this postseason, Hart has averaged 10 rebounds, 9.4 points and 4.8 assists. His defense has been murder on Atlanta, and he has given them a taste of their own medicine with eight steals.

It’s not the first back issue for Hart over the past year. Mr. Mike & Ike suffered a lower back injury when he slipped on the court during the preseason opener in early October. That caused him to miss the beginning of the regular season, including the opener against the Cavs.

Although the Knicks’ injury report is otherwise clean, we suspect that most of the starters are dinged up. Forever turning ankles, Jalen Brunson limped his way to a 39-point performance in Tuesday’s annihilation of Atlanta; Karl-Anthony Towns was seen favoring his knee(s) in the game; and OG Anunoby, the MVP of the series, sprained his left ankle late in the season and was most recently listed as probable before Game Two. Iron Man Mikal Bridges seems fine.

If Josh can’t play, New York still has the wing depth to cover with Anunoby and Bridges. Hart’s versatility, however, especially in their switch-heavy defense, is tough to replicate and has been a key to their success all year. Given the stakes—our heroes could close out the series tonight and start prepping for round two—we know that Hart will want to play. But the Knicks may think bigger picture and try to convince him to rest.

Think Josh should play? Rest? Air it out in the comments below.

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How the 76ers exposed Celtics’ drop coverage

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 28: Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives to the basket against Neemias Queta #88 of the Boston Celtics in Game Five of the First Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoff at TD Garden on April 28, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) | Getty Images

For the first time this season, the Celtics allowed their opponents an efficiency above 70% on both layups and floaters. This wasn’t caused by a high transition volume, but rather by a half-court defensive collapse. The Sixers posted a 1.19 points-per-possession efficiency in non-transition situations, their third-highest mark of the season. Only Washington and Chicago provided weaker opposition to Phily this year.

Where did that collapse come from, and why has the pick-and-roll defense been such an issue in these latest games? Let’s go back to the film and figure it out.

On this first play, you will recognize a set that the Celtics run often, and they should be ready to defend it, as they have been practicing it for years now under Joe Mazzulla.

You can see here why Jordan Walsh has sometimes struggled in on-ball defense. His anticipation and screen navigation aren’t good enough to consistently stay connected to the ball handler. However, in drop coverage like the Celtics are playing, the on-ball defender needs to stay attached to his man to avoid a defensive breakdown.

Then comes Quentin Grimes’ back screen on Nikola Vucevic, which creates another problem. The big man can’t execute the drop because he is also caught in the screen. It then becomes Payton Pritchard’s job to slow down the drive, but he commits his steps too early, allowing Tyrese Maxey to go around him.

On this possession, Baylor Scheierman comes high enough to protect against a right-hand drive while still staying close enough to Paul George to contest a potential shot. However, the weakside help from Jaylen Brown is nowhere to be found.

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But Jordan Walsh isn’t the only one who struggled with screen navigation. Derrick White also had a hard time keeping up with Tyrese Maxey, and navigating (moving?) screens from Joel Embiid is always tough.

Then comes the big-man issue: the Celtics don’t have a center who can backpedal and execute solid drop coverage, especially on high ball screens. Watch Neemias Queta’s feet and hips—it’s a mess, and Maxey can beat him in a second, while Jayson Tatum takes too long to commit as the strong-side helper.

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There are several possessions where it’s hard to understand the defensive decision-making. Here, Tatum doesn’t impact either the drive or the passing lane, Brown’s body orientation opens a freeway for Paul George, and Vucevic doesn’t disrupt the two-man action at all.

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The screen navigation issues are where it all starts because they give the ball handler far too much freedom. Look at the lack of intensity on this possession from JB. He jogs and doesn’t fight over the screen, which gives PG space and momentum to attack Vucevic, who is known for poor rim protection. Again, there is no commitment or help from the weakside by either White or Tatum.

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Here again, the defensive shell breaks after another ball-screen action. Jayson Tatum can’t keep up with VJ Edgecombe, which triggers help from Sam Hauser, who forgets about Kelly Oubre behind him. When the Sixers wing cuts, he has enough space to finish and draws another shooting foul from Queta.

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To avoid Joel Embiid’s screening action, the Celtics switch Jaylen Brown onto the big man, but the size mismatch is too significant and quickly forces Queta to help, leading to yet another shooting foul.

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Nonetheless, because drop coverage against Embiid screening actions has been so problematic, the Celtics will likely need to adjust their coverage—or execute it far better than what we saw in Game 5.

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Basketball recruiting 2026 team rankings: Kansas lands top player, but another program is No. 1

The transfer portal has changed college basketball, look no further than Michigan's remade roster that led the Wolverines to the national championship this April.

But high school recruiting still remains important. Don't believe us? Look at the 2026 NBA Draft. Nine of the top 10 projected picks in this year's draft were in the 2025 recruiting class.

Tyran Stokes, the consensus No. 1 player in the 2026 class, committed to Kansas on April 28, giving Bill Self yet another blue-chip prospect in a recruiting class that includes five players inside the top 150.

Rock Chalk: With Tyran Stokes commitment, Kansas just pulled off offseason’s biggest win

Who has best haul so far? College basketball transfer portal team rankings

But that's not enough to put the Jayhawks atop USA TODAY Sports' 2026 recruiting team rankings. See who picked up the top spot and check out the full top 25 below.

Player rankings are the average position from 247Sports, Rivals/On3, ESPN and Prep Hoops rankings.

1. Duke (4 commits)

  • PF Cam Williams (Phoenix, AZ); No. 4.6
  • PG Deron Rippey Jr. (Blairstown, NJ); No. 9.6
  • SF Bryson Howard (Frisco, TX); No. 14.8
  • C Maxime Meyer (Bradenton, FL); No. 78

2. Arkansas (4 commits)

  • SG Jordan Smith Jr. (Fairfax, VA); No. 3.6
  • SG JJ Andrews (Little Rock, AR); No. 18.8
  • SF Abdou Toure (West Haven, CT); No. 19
  • PF Miikka Muurinen (Finland); No. 55

3. Kansas (5 commits)

  • PF Tyran Stokes (Seattle, WA); No. 1
  • PG Taylen Kinney (Atlanta, GA); No. 18.5
  • C Davion Adkins (Fort Lauderdale, FL); No. 55.3
  • SF Trent Perry (Branson, MO); No. 106.3
  • SG Luke Barnett (Santa Ana, CA); No. 138

4. USC (3 commits)

  • PF Christian Collins (Bellflower, CA); No. 6.3
  • PF Adonis Ratliff (White Plains, NY); No. 18
  • C Darius Ratliff (White Plains, NY); No. 22.5

5. Michigan (6 commits)

  • PG Brandon McCoy Jr. (Chatsworth, CA); No. 13.5
  • PF Quinn Costello (Boston, MA); No. 33
  • SF Lincoln Cosby (Montverde, FL); No. 42
  • SG Joseph Hartman (Gainesville FL); No. 96.3
  • SF Malachi Brown (Knoxville, TN); N/A
  • C Marcus Moller (Spain); N/A

6. Michigan State (4 commits)

  • SG Jasiah Jervis (White Plains, NY); No. 28.8
  • C Ethan Taylor (Shawnee, KS); No. 30
  • PG Carlos Medlock Jr. (Branson, MO); No. 43.5
  • PF Julius Avent (Oradell, NJ); No. 86

7. Missouri (3 commits)

  • G Jason Crowe Jr. (Ingelwood, CA); No. 10.3
  • PF Tony Bryant (Orlando, FL); No. 24.5
  • SG Aidan Chronister (Fayetteville, AR); No. 81.3

8. Alabama (3 commits)

  • SG Qayden Samuels (Forestville, MD); No. 28.8
  • SF Jaxon Richardson (Orlando, FL); No. 31
  • SG Tarris Bouie (Geneva, OH); No. 51.8

9. Oklahoma State (4 commits)

  • PF Latrell Almond (Petersburg, VA); No. 30.5
  • SF Anthony Felesi (Hurricane, UT); No. 40.5
  • SF Jalen Montonati (Owasso, OK); No. 76.5
  • G Parker Robinson (Atlanta, GA); No. 142

10. Maryland (4 commits)

  • SF Baba Oladotun (Silver Spring, MD); No. 12
  • G Kaden House (Chandler, AZ); No. 44.3
  • PF Adama Tambedou (Putnam, CT); No. 119.3
  • SF Austin Brown (Lufkin, TX); No. 161

11. Texas (4 commits)

  • SF Austin Goosby (Dallas, TX); No. 30
  • SG Bo Ogden (Austin, TX); No. 40.5
  • G Joe Sterling (Studio City, CA); No. 113
  • C Coleman Elkins (Blairstown, NJ); N/A

12. Purdue (5 commits)

  • PG Luke Ertel (Fortville, IN); No. 46.5
  • SF Jacob Webber (LaPorte, IN); No. 59.3
  • C Sinan Huan (North Bethesda, MD); No. 73
  • C Jamyn Sondrup (Springville, UT); No. 138
  • PF Rivers Knight (LaPorte, IN); N/A

13. Arizona (2 commits)

  • SG Caleb Holt (Fort Lauderdale, FL); No. 4
  • SG Cameron Holmes (Goodyear, AZ); No. 40.8

14. Baylor (2 commits)

  • G Dylan Mingo (Glen Head, NY); No. 5.3
  • SF Elijah Williams (San Antonio, TX); No. 45

15. Illinois (5 commits)

  • SG Quentin Coleman (St. Louis, MO); No. 31.3
  • SG Lucas Morillo (Boston, MA); No. 53.5
  • G Ethan Brown (Rolla, MO); No. 139
  • PF Landon Davis (Waukee, IA); No. 172
  • PF Zavier Zens (Milwaukee, WI); N/A

16. Houston (2 commits)

  • C Arafan Diane (Norwalk, IA); No. 17.3
  • G Ikenna Alozie (Glendale, AZ); No. 44.8

17. UConn (2 commits)

  • SF Colben Landrew (Marietta, GA); No. 22.5
  • G Junior County (Mount Pleasant, UT); No. 48.3

18. Tennessee (4 commits)

  • SF Chris Washington Jr. (Murfreesboro, TN); No. 49.3
  • SF Ralph Scott (Bradenton, FL); No. 58
  • SF Manny Green (Ellenwood, GA); No. 106
  • PG Marquis Clark (Chicago, IL); No. 179

19. Indiana (3 commits)

  • SF Vaughn Karvala (Scottsdale, AZ); No. 57.8
  • SF Trevor Manhertz (Arden, NC); No. 69
  • G Prince-Alexander Moody (Forestville, MD); No. 85

20. Florida State (7 commits)

  • C Marcis Ponder (Springfield, VA); No. 61.8
  • G Martay Barnes (Orlando, FL); No. 81
  • SG Brandon Bass Jr. (Windermere, FL); No. 107.3
  • SF Collin Paul (Fort Lauderdale, FL); No. 108.3
  • PG Jasen Lopez (Hollywood, FL); No. 136
  • SG Elisee Assui (Italy); N/A
  • SG JD Jones (Paradise Valley, AZ); N/A

21. Mississippi State (3 commits)

  • C Tristan Reed (Branson, MO); No. 56.5
  • G Willie Burnett III (Washington, DC); No. 88.3
  • SF Jalyn Collingwood (Springfield, VA); No. 126.7

22. Stanford (5 commits)

  • SF Aziz Olajuwon (Bradenton, FL); No. 67
  • SG Julius Price (Santa Maria, CA); No. 92
  • SG Elias Obenyah (Richmond, CA); No. 101.5
  • PG Slim Rogers (Corona, CA); No. 105.7
  • PF Drew Anderson (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA); No. 156

23. Vanderbilt (3 commits)

  • SF Ethan Mgbako (Mouth of Wilson, VA); No. 73.5
  • PG Anthony Brown (Washington, DC); No. 77
  • C Jackson Sheffield (Hoover, AL); No. 113.8

24. Georgia Tech (4 commits)

  • G Kayden Allen (Glen Head, NY); No. 59.8
  • PF Moustapha Diop (Atlanta, GA); No. 100.7
  • G Kaiden Bailey (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA); No. 124.5
  • PG Haiden Harper (Auburn, AL); N/A

25. West Virginia (4 commits)

  • PG Miles Sadler (Scottsdale, AZ); No. 24
  • C Amadou Seini (Scottsdale, AZ); No. 129
  • C Aliou Dioum (Scottsdale, AZ); No. 138.5
  • G Keonte Greybear (Lewisville, TX); No. 183

Just missed: Ohio State, Pitt, Wake Forest, Iowa State, Gonzaga

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: College basketball recruiting 2026 class team rankings: Rich get richer

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Yankees vs Orioles: 5 things to watch and series predictions | May 1-4

Here are five things to watch and predictions as the Yankees open a four-game series against the Baltimore Orioles in the Bronx on Friday...

5 things to watch

Return of Anthony Volpe?

Volpe is on the cusp of returning. The Yankees haven't announced whether the shortstop will be activated off the IL this weekend or if he will even start right away, but it's something that's worth monitoring.

Volpe is seemingly ready to come back after he hit .303 with a homer, three RBI, and two stolen bases across 10 minor league games. 

Whenever Volpe returns, the everyday lineup will get a shakeup. Will that affect how manager Aaron Boone uses his players, and how will the utility players like Jose Caballero and Amed Rosario respond?

And speaking of...

Jose Caballero's playing time to take a hit?

If Volpe gets his starting shortstop job back, that means Caballero will be more of a bench player.

It's a shame considering Caballero has had a strong start to the 2026 season. Through 30 games, Caballero is slashing .267/.313/.400 with an OPS of .713 with three home runs, 11 RBI, and 12 stolen bases. He's also been very good defensively. 

The calls for Volpe to be on the bench will be louder if he doesn't get off to a good start when he returns, but that will especially be the case if Caballero gets benched. 

What benefits Caballero is his versatility. In his career, he's played second base, shortstop, third base, and in the outfield. With Ryan McMahon's continued struggles, Rosario could see starts at the hot corner against a left-handed starter. 

Jasson Dominguez's status

Dominguez was called up to give the Yanks a bat after the youngster killed it down in Triple-A and when Giancarlo Stanton landed on the IL. But now Dominguez could be landing on the IL as well.

New York Yankees left fielder Jasson Dominguez (24) prepares to take batting practice before a game against the Philadelphia Phillies during spring training at BayCare Ballpark.
New York Yankees left fielder Jasson Dominguez (24) prepares to take batting practice before a game against the Philadelphia Phillies during spring training at BayCare Ballpark. / Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

Dominguez suffered a left elbow contusion after being hit by a pitch in Wednesday's loss to the Rangers, and will receive more imaging when he gets back to New York.

Will Dominguez be able to just sit and wait for his elbow to heal, or will the Yankees need to make another move? If Dominguez does land on the IL, who will be called up? Volpe could take Dominguez's spot on the roster and leave Max Schuemann on the team until Stanton returns.

However the injury news falls for Dominguez, it's a shame for the youngster who has worked his way back to the team and was hoping to prove that he belongs.

Can David Bednar dominate again?

Bednar has been very effective this season, but he's been more cardiac-inducing than dominant of late.

In his last two outings (Monday and Tuesday against the Rangers), he's allowed three runs (one earned) on four hits and a hit batter. He eventually locked down saves in both games, but the Yankees could use easier ninth innings this weekend.

Of his 13 appearances this season, he's allowed one or fewer baserunners just five times. 

Starting rotation continues to roll

The Yankees' rotation is one of the best in baseball and they hope to keep that going in this four-game series.

Using Elmer Rodriguez on Wednesday gives the rotation an extra day of rest, which could benefit them all. Will Warren and Ryan Weathers take the mound to start the series and hope to build on their last starts. 

Max Fried, after not allowing a run in his last two starts (14 innings), will take the mound on Sunday. With Garret Crochet on the IL and Tarik Skubal not pitching to his usual Cy Young level, another dominant start would put Fried at the top of early Cy Young race. 

And speaking of the top pitchers in the AL, Cam Schlittler is making waves in the early going. He outdueled Jacob deGrom on Tuesday and will take the mound for the series finale on Monday. 

Predictions

Who will the MVP of the series be?

Aaron Judge

The captain has three home runs in his last seven games and that'll continue this weekend.

Which Yankees pitcher will have the best start?

Cam Schlittler

Schlittler is just on a roll. It's hard to imagine the Orioles putting an end to that streak of great starts.

Which Orioles player will be a thorn in the Yankees' side?

Gunnar Henderson

The shortstop has nine home runs entering play Thursday, and the lefty could utilize the short porch. 

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Sixers appreciate George doing ‘everything' through roller coaster of Celtics series

Sixers appreciate George doing ‘everything' through roller coaster of Celtics series  originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

In a Sixers-Celtics series of brilliant highs and terrible lows, Paul George has been steady.

For his teammates, George’s two-way play has certainly not flown under the radar.

“He does everything,” Joel Embiid said Tuesday night in Boston after the Sixers beat the Celtics and forced a Game 6. “It starts on defense. He’s been guarding (Jaylen Brown), (Jayson Tatum), just going back and forth. He’s an amazing defender, making it tough on those guys. … He just does a little bit of everything and we need all of it.”

Through five games of the Sixers’ first-round playoff series, George has averaged 17.2 points. He’s scored between 16 and 19 in every game and done so quite efficiently, shooting 49.2 percent from the field and 53.8 percent from three-point range. George has also chipped in 4.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.6 steals per game. 

“He’s smart (defensively), he’s quick, he’s long, he’s athletic, he’s determined,” Sixers head coach Nick Nurse said Tuesday. “And I think his offense still is growing and his confidence is still growing a bit.”

George’s second season as a Sixer was derailed when the NBA suspended him 25 games in late January for violating the league’s anti-drug policy.

The nine-time All-Star wing saw a major silver lining in the suspension, noting that he felt in a “much better place physically” after the time off. Including the Sixers’ play-in tournament victory over the Magic, George has played in 16 consecutive games. During that stretch, he’s largely been the player the Sixers envisioned when they signed him to a four-year, $212 million contract in the summer of 2024.

Veteran leadership has been part of the package with George. Though he’s comfortable going with the flow, George hasn’t been silent at all. Tyrese Maxey mentioned that the 35-year-old was one of the Sixers who told him that his three field goal attempts in the first half of the team’s blowout Game 4 loss was an “unacceptable” number.

Maxey played a strong Game 5, posting 25 points on 10-for-18 shooting, 10 rebounds, five assists and two steals. 

“I thought he was aggressive,” George said in the visiting locker room at TD Garden. “I thought he was looking for his shot, looking to go downhill and be aggressive. And that’s what we need. When we’re locked in as a group, he’s playing at his best and he’s aggressive offensively. I thought he was everything and all of that from start to finish tonight.”

Asked about the internal conversations that helped the Sixers bounce back from their brutal Game 4, George kept it simple. 

“Rebounding and defending,” he said. “Those were really the two things that we needed to do to give ourselves a chance.”

To continue their comeback and take Thursday night’s Game 6 at Xfinity Mobile Arena, the Sixers know they need George to play just as he has the whole series. 

“He’s been excellent on defense,” Nurse said Wednesday. “He’s in a physical battle a lot of times with Brown on both ends. They’re really battling each other.

“There’s a lot of screens to get through, there’s a lot of push-offs, there’s a lot of isolations, there’s a lot of actions. … If (Brown) doesn’t have the ball, they’re setting flare screens for him. If he’s down the floor, they’re setting pin-downs, cross screens. They’re posting him, they’re running him in screen-and-rolls, they’re getting him at the nail for isos. … (Brown) right now is up there with the best of the league, but I think Paul has taken that challenge and done a good job. 

“He’s good off the ball, too. He’s a really good defender and he’s been good in this series.”