MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - SEPTEMBER 18: Luis Rengifo #2 of the Los Angeles Angels rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the Milwaukee Brewers in the fifth inning at American Family Field on September 18, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Milwaukee Brewers traded away their entire third base depth chart on Monday. It seemed they were going to be in need of bringing in additional infield depth right as spring training was getting started. They were left with just David Hamilton as the only infielder as an option at third base on the 40-man roster. On Friday, they made their addition to shore up that depth.
Mark Feinsand of MLB.com has reported that the Brewers are signing veteran utility infielder Luis Rengifo to a one-year contract. Rengifo will earn $3.5 million in salary with another $1.5 million in possible incentives. The deal includes a mutual option for 2027 valued at $10 million.
To this point, the 28-year-old Rengifo has spent his entire seven-year career with the Los Angeles Angels.
Luis Rengifo provides stopgap help
Rengifo has played all over the diamond for the Angels, playing three infield spots and all three outfield positions. The best seasons of his career came in 2022 and 2023, when he was able to slug 17 and 16 home runs, respectively, with a .264 batting average.
In 2024, Rengifo was on pace to have a truly fantastic season, with career highs in batting average (.300), on-base percentage (.347), and stolen bases (24), but he played in just 78 games as he dealt with a wrist injury that required surgery. He had proven to be a solid contact hitter that could hit from both sides of the plate with some decent pop while able to play all over the diamond.
Then he had a tough season in 2025, hitting just .238/.287/.335 with nine homers and a woeful 73 OPS+. Still, he was healthy with a career-high 147 games played.
Now with the Brewers, Rengifo immediately becomes the most experienced third baseman on the roster and would appear to have an inside track to regular playing time at the position. Being a switch-hitter, he’d be largely immune to platoon needs. He has power from both sides, but hits for a higher average as a righty.
Brewers PBO Matt Arnold said after the Durbin trade that they liked the depth in their infield but were open to making more additions.
Rengifo is a good fit for the Brewers because he makes a lot of contact, doesn’t strike out a ton, has some speed, and is versatile defensively. He can provide a legitimate stopgap at the hot corner in Milwaukee until the young prospects are ready. Once they are, Rengifo can settle into a utility role that he’s probably a better overall fit for. He won’t block Jett Williams, Cooper Pratt, or Brock Wilken when they’re ready, but he can bridge the gap until they are.
With the Yankees’ starting outfield locked in again, youngster Jasson Dominguez’s role is a bit of an unknown heading into this season.
Dominguez spent all of last year on the big-league roster, but the team struggled to find him consistent at-bats for the majority of the second half.
GM Brian Cashman considered optioning him to Triple-A at the time, but he ultimately decided against it.
With the 23-year-old facing similar circumstances now, could that change?
“Stay tuned,” Cashman said. “[Trent Grisham] came out nowhere last year and really had an All-Star season and took control of one of those everyday spots with [Aaron] Judge and [Cody Bellinger], which reduced Jasson to a role player. There were still lanes for him to contribute with us coming off the bench, pinch-run, etc. when we were in the midst of a pennant race to try to determine the AL East title or Wild Card situation.
“So there are still ways,” Cashman continued. “Dominguez is an extremely talented player -- both offensively, defensively -- and he’s one of our best runners. Having him as a choice for a manager to use, coming off the bench at times definitely improves our chances of success because of his pure athleticism. So if everything stays the same, we’ll be forced to choose our best course of action to help this team.
“I would conceive that it’s in our best interest to get him everyday reps. We’ll be able to do that with all of these guys down here as they go through their ramp-ups, then we’ll see have to wait and see how the spring shakes out and who’s standing when we have our meetings closer to the end of camp. So we’ll see where it takes us.”
Dominguez finished 13th in AL Rookie of the Year voting after hitting .257 with 29 extra-base hits, 23 stolen bases, and a .719 OPS last season.
And even before he began, he was fighting through somber tears and quivering breaths.
For the first time since losing his newborn daughter, Alex Vesia was ready to discuss the tragedy. Getty ImagesVesia and his wife Kayla mourned the death of their newborn daughter Sterling Sol last October. Getty Images for Netflix“I was not prepared to not bring my baby girl home,” Vesia said. “But we’re carrying her with us every day.” Alex Vesia
“I was not prepared to not bring my baby girl home,” Vesia said. “But we’re carrying her with us every day.”
In his six-minute address Friday, Vesia thanked the Dodgers and the larger baseball community for the support his family felt last October and over the offseason. “The outpouring of love and support Kay and I have had over the past few months has been unmatched,” he said.
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He expressed gratitude for gestures made by the Blue Jays (who had every one of their relievers write Vesia’s No. 51 on their caps during last year’s Fall Classic) and Los Angeles Rams (who sent him a signed jersey with the name “S. Vesia” on the back), while noting that “my DMs are basically broken on Instagram from all the love and support that we’ve had.”
He described the conflicting emotions he felt while watching the World Series from afar: “Stepping away from the team, and the brothers I go to war with every day, was difficult,” he acknowledged. “But it was also an easy decision, because my family needed me.”
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia throws a baseball during spring training. JASON SZENES FOR THE CALIFORNIA POST
Then, he got most choked up while remembering the short time he and his wife had with their daughter, who died from unspecified causes on Oct. 26, shortly after being born.
“The lessons we’ve learned from this is that life can change in an instant,” Vesia said. “Ten minutes is all it took. Sterling Sol was the most beautiful girl in the world. We got to hold her, change her diaper, read to her and love her. Our time together was far too short. Kay and I will keep those precious moments and memories to ourselves. I hope that anyone listening can empathize and respect our wishes for privacy as we continue to heal, and as we navigate the ups and downs of a baseball season.”
Friday started with a sense of normalcy for Vesia, a six-year MLB veteran who has emerged as one of the top left-handed relievers in the majors with a 2.92 career ERA.
He was the first Dodgers pitcher to throw a bullpen session, on what was the first official day of spring training workouts for the team. He caught up with teammates and staff members in the clubhouse, where he said “being able to laugh and joke around, that’s been really nice for me.” And he sported a thick new beard and seemingly bulked-up physique, noting how his rigorous gym work over the offseason has crucially “been my mental clarity.”
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia throws during spring training. JASON SZENES FOR THE CALIFORNIA POSTLos Angeles Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia reacts after the final out of the 9th inning in World Series game 2. Jason Szenes / New York Post
Still, the painful memories of what he endured last October lingered; not only for himself, but others around the organization.
“I can’t put it into words,” manager Dave Roberts said. “I’m happy to see him. I spent some time with him yesterday. They’re doing well. I know his teammates are excited to have him back. It’s just, our hearts obviously went out to him and Kayla. You don’t wish that on anyone.”
Alex Vesia is first up on the bullpen mounds for today’s first official workout pic.twitter.com/Zibmy3MWzm
While Roberts hoped that the return of baseball would be “therapeutic” for his high-leverage southpaw, Vesia revealed that he and his wife have sought out professional help, too, going through sessions of therapy over the last six weeks.
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia throws during spring training workouts. JASON SZENES FOR THE CALIFORNIA POSTLos Angeles Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia throws during spring training workouts. JASON SZENES FOR THE CALIFORNIA POST
“It hasn’t been easy, but talking to someone has made a difference,” he said. “For those out there who have lost a child, or are fighting through any struggle, if you can take anything from this, please seek help. Talk to somebody. It’s definitely helped Kay and I. Please don’t be afraid to speak up. Your mental health matters.”
As he finished reading his statement, Vesia had to stop and compose himself with more deep breaths.
“I’ve learned that what has happened to us has also happened to so many families,” he said. “And realizing that has deepened our empathy and our gratitude for this community. The baseball community is extremely strong.”
Then, he thanked the reporters before him, turned back toward the clubhouse and reached for a tissue to wipe away another tear.
“It’s been hard,” he said in his closing remark. “But, we’re doing OK.”
Pedro Neto’s hat-trick and Liam Delap’s hat-trick of assists made for Liam Rosenior’s happy Hull return
Hull have been a considerable talent school in recent years: Harry Maguire, Jarrod Bowen, Andy Robertson and lately Keane Lewis-Potter have all carved decent careers in the Premier League. Tom Cairney, too.
Liam Rosenior has FA Cup heritage, and played in this Wembley final classic in 2014. City were unlucky in this game, very unlucky.
PISA, Italy (AP) — Luka Modrić scored a late winner for AC Milan to beat Pisa 2-1 and close the gap on Serie A leader Inter Milan to five points on Friday.
Inter plays fourth-placed Juventus on Saturday.
Milan had drawn three of its last six games, including against struggling Fiorentina and Genoa, and made heavy work of a match against the second-from-bottom club that had won only one league game all season.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek got the opener just before halftime when he rose unmarked to head home a cross from the right, and Niclas Füllkrug missed a penalty as Milan took control after a slow start.
However, Pisa threatened to dent the visitor’s title hopes when Felipe Loyola equalized with 20 minutes left.
Former Tottenham and Real Madrid midfielder Modrić came to Milan’s rescue six minutes from time when he stole into the box and poked home the winner.
There was still time for Milan’s Adrien Rabiot to be sent off but no more time for goals and Massimiliano Allegri’s men celebrated an important three points.
Pisa was equal on points with Verona. Fiorentina was three above both teams and Lecce another three points clear.
The Milan teams meet in the city derby at the San Siro on March 8.
Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia pitches in the sixth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 3 of the NLCS at Dodger Stadium. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)
“ I was not prepared to not bring my baby girl home, but we’re carrying her with us every day…”
Meeting with the media at Camelback Ranch on the first day of spring training Friday, Vesia took no questions, instead reading from a statement off his phone while battling the effects of the tragedy that was his daughter Sterling’s death two days after the start of the World Series.
“The lessons we’ve learned from this is that life can change in an instant. Ten minutes is all it took….”
Vesia had allowed two runs in seven postseason appearances, including five scoreless appearances in the heart of the playoffs. He was going to be a big factor against the Toronto Blue Jays, until the unthinkable happened, and he immediately disappeared into his nightmare.
“I can’t think of anything worse,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.
While the Dodgers were competing for an unthinkable second consecutive championship, Vesia was mourning an unimaginable loss. While the Dodgers were ultimately bathed in cheers, he and wife Kayla were awash in agony.
“Sterling Sol was the most beautiful girl in the world…we got to hold her, change her diaper, read to her, and love her… Our time together was far too short.”
For all the emotion that enveloped the Dodgers postseason, it turns out none of it could compare to the private hell endured by one of their own. As he spoke Friday, it became clear why Vesia is such a valued member of this group. He could barely get through his statement, yet he took deep breaths and didn’t stop talking. He couldn’t pitch in the most important games of the year, yet he put his pain aside and wouldn’t stop cheering.
“Stepping away from the team, and the brothers I go to war with every day, was difficult. But it was also an easy decision, because my family needed me. We still watched every pitch of the World Series, and for us, in so many ways, that was a light in our darkness.”
While the public was unaware of the scope of his pain — one day before the World Series began, the Dodgers announced that he had left the team for a “deeply personal family matter” — every player knew the details, and reacted with a giant embrace.
The Dodgers wore Vesia’s number 51 on their caps. Soon, so did the Blue Jays relievers in an inspiring show of solidarity.
“When Kay and I were watching the World Series, we noticed that there was (No.) 51 on Louie Varland's hat. I immediately texted Gus Varland, his brother, and I asked him if I was seeing that correctly. He texted me back right away and he said, 'The Varlands love you dude. The whole Toronto bullpen has it too. It's bigger than baseball. We love you all.' Kay and I… we were very emotional. We were super overwhelmed with emotion.”
That emotion was evident in a different way on Friday, with a newly muscle-bound Vesia throwing darts in a breathtaking bullpen session. His vacancy was nicely filled in the World Series by Will Klein and Justin Wrobleski, who combined to throw 10 scoreless innings. But this team will need Vesia this season as an important set-up man for Edwin Díaz, and are counting on him to remain his strong self.
“ I do think getting back to what he loves to do and play baseball, that's something therapeutic for him,” said Roberts.
Vesia agreed. The road back from grief is often a long and rocky one, but as he hugged teammates and the relaxed spring moment Friday, he had hope.
“Having something to look forward to has helped me. The gym has been my mental clarity. Being around the guys again, preparing for spring training, it’s been really nice. Gotten a lot of love so far in the clubhouse, and being able to laugh and joke around, that’s been really nice for me.”
While Vesia’s statement was wracked with sorrow, it was also filled with gratitude. He found time to thank the Dodgers, the Blue Jays and most notably, the fans.
Yes, all of you who reached out to him, he heard you, and he is thankful for you. This includes the Rams, who even sent him an autographed jersey as a sign of their support.
“"The outpouring of love and support Kay and I have had over the past few months has been unmatched. We're both grateful to not only Dodger nation, but the fans worldwide. My DMs, messages, my DMs are basically broken on Instagram from all the love and support that we've had. I've tried to read all the comments and everything just because it's meant the world, really.”
At the end of his statement, Vesia put his fist over his heart, wobbled for a second, and it looked like he was going to faint before he staggered away.
Remember this on opening day. Remember the courage required of Alex Vesia to make this kind of public showing. Remember how he handled his greatest trauma with the sort of strength and conviction that has made these Dodgers one of the greatest teams in baseball history.
Do they give standing ovations to middle relievers?
Nearly a year removed from Tommy John surgery that forced him to miss the 2025 season, Cole called his workout "pretty good," insisting that a return to pinstripes in May or June remains the target date after conversations with the club and doctors.
No surprise, Boone echoed Cole's optimism. After all, he recently hinted at the possibility of the 35-year-old pitching in Grapefruit League games before camp wraps up in late March, and right now the plan is for Cole to face hitters in the coming weeks.
But they won't put him at risk of a setback -- they're prioritizing long-term goals.
"The last thing we want to do is push him early in the season, just because he looks like he does now," Boone said. "We want to make sure we give him the proper time to make sure he's good and ready to come back. Built-up in a smart way. We won't rush that with him, even if continues to go incredibly well."
The Yankees can't afford to put Cole in harm's way. In spite of his diligent routine and body awareness, questions and concerns about his health are now warranted.
After earning AL Cy Young honors in 2023, Cole missed the first half of 2024 with elbow inflammation, finishing the year with a 3.41 ERA and 99 strikeouts in 17 starts (95.0 innings).
To his credit, he also produced a laudable 0.71 ERA across two World Series games against the Dodgers. Boone doesn't see why Cole can't resemble a frontline starter once again.
"I'm not going to put anything past Gerrit," Boone said. "He's so good at his craft. Again, the success rate on these surgeries is usually pretty good. And the way his rehab process has gone, would lend itself to him returning to form... I'm not going to put any ceiling on what Gerrit can do once he's back in the rotation."
An opportunity for Jose Caballero
While the Yankees anticipate Anthony Volpe to miss at least April following offseason shoulder surgery, there's a window for utilityman Jose Caballero to grab hold of the starting shortstop role and eventually create some competition.
Caballero, acquired from the Rays before the trade deadline last season, slashed .266/.372/.456 with 15 stolen bases across 95 regular-season plate appearances for the Yankees. His career offensive metrics suggest a dip in production is coming, but his athleticism and attitude excite Boone.
"He's just a real gritty, gamer, tough, competitive, scrappy out at the plate," Boone said. "We like that about him. We like what he brings to the table. Does the short game well, can hit behind a runner, can bunt and bunt for a hit. Obviously the basestealing part of things, the defensive versatility...
"He's definitely good enough to play [shortstop]. He has that utility label, and rightfully so, because he really can go play a lot of positions well. But that doesn't mean he can't legit play shortstop too, because he can. Looking forward to seeing him out there regularly to start the year, we'll see where it takes us."
Cam Schlittler throws on flat ground
The second-year starter didn't express any concern with minor mid-back inflammation he revealed on Thursday, and considering that he did some light tossing on the back fields on Friday, his throwing program shouldn't be altered for long.
"He kind of brushes it off, like, no biggie," Boone said of Schlittler. "Hopefully this is something that, slowing him down, serves him well in the total build-up. I think it will. We'll see how the next day or two unfolds, just when he gets back on the mound. Hopefully pretty quick."
A bullpen spot for Rafael Montero?
The Yankees recently agreed to a minor-league deal with the veteran right-hander that includes an invite to big league camp. He spent the 2025 season with the Astros, Braves, and Tigers, logging a 4.48 ERA across 59 appearances. He also struck out 58, but walked 37.
At the moment, the Yankees' high-leverage bullpen spots belong to closer David Bednar and set-up man Camilo Doval, with Fernando Cruz and Tim Hill ranking behind.
Boone likes the pitching competition entering camp, and believes Montero has the tools and experience to earn an Opening Day roster spot.
"I've talked about our pitching depth, all the way to the starters to non-roster invites," Boone said. "Bringing a guy like Montero in, with obviously a ton of experience. Had a lot of success, had some success last year. There's some things we really liked he was doing last year. Maybe some small adjustments we can make to help him."
In the pivotal Game 7, Muncy got things going when he hit a 373-foot solo home run in the eighth inning that cut their deficit to one. That breathed life back into the Dodgers, who at that point were floundering on the road.
Los Angeles Dodgers’ Max Muncy watches his home run hit against the Toronto Blue Jays during the eighth inning in Game 7 of baseball’s World Series, Nov. 1, 2025, in Toronto. AP
Known more for his defense than offense, Rojas became a folk hero of Dodgers lore when he hit a game-tying solo blast in the top of the ninth inning. He then followed that up with a game-saving defensive play in the bottom half of the inning when he snared a hard-hit ball and threw out Isiah Kiner-Falefa at home to keep the game tied at four.
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Will Smith would later hit a solo home run in the 11th inning as the Dodgers prevailed for their third title in five years with a 5-4 win.
As spring training gets underway at Camelback Ranch in Arizona, Dodgers fans gave a loud ovation when Rojas and Muncy walked by them toward the practice fields.
World Series heroes Miguel Rojas and Max Muncy were met with tons of love as they arrived to Spring Training today.
The Dodgers aren’t back to back World Series champions without these two and they made sure to bless them with new contracts pic.twitter.com/ELbgsvVk2H
DORTMUND, Germany (AP) — Borussia Dortmund beat Mainz 4-0 to extend its unbeaten league run to 15 games and close the gap with Bundesliga leader Bayern Munich to three points on Friday.
The result, anchored by three first-half headers, left Dortmund three points behind Bayern, which is at Werder Bremen on Saturday.
Although its European form has been poor, Dortmund has been the form team in the Bundesliga and came into the game having won its last five in a row; it showed precisely why by overwhelming Mainz from the kickoff.
Serhou Guirassy’s perfect header from a free kick on the right after nine minutes set Dortmund on the winning path and six minutes later it was 2-0.
Again, the damage came from a cross from the right and a header, Maximilian Beier meeting Ryerson’s delivery at the far post.
Guirassy rounded off a near perfect half of football when his header almost on the goalline made it 3-0 shortly before halftime.
Dortmund was able to take its foot off the gas in the second half but there was still time for a fourth when Ramy Bensebaini nudged a corner into the net nine minutes from time.
It was a rude awakening for a Mainz side that appeared to have put its early season struggles behind it over the last few weeks.
Last weekend’s win against Augsburg lifted it out the relegation zone for the first time since September. Friday’s defeat left it 14th, four points above the drop zone but only two clear of Wolfsburg and Werder, both of which have a game in hand.
CLEMSON, SC - JUNE 01: Clemson Tigers infielder Jarren Purify (23) during a NCAA Division 1 college regional baseball playoff game between the Kentucky Wildcats and the Clemson Tigers on June 1, 2025 at Doug Kingsmore Stadium in Clemson, S.C. (Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Hello baseball fans, the hours are ticking down to the start of the 2026 baseball season. I haven’t covered baseball in several years, but it feels less gross than other college sports at the moment. While basketball and football are imploding, baseball keeps chugging along (don’t tell me if I’m wrong about this, I need to believe).
Let’s get after it.
Projected Starting Lineup
First Base
#16 – Luke Gaffney – 6’1”, 235 – Rs Jr.
Bats/Throws: R/R
2024 – 25 Stats
Team
ST
AVG
OPS
R
H
HR
RBI
Clemson
51
.271
.745
26
51
5
39
Info
The former Big 10 Freshman of the Year from Purdue struggled to find his groove at Clemson last season. There’s been buzz around Tiger Town this winter that Gafney looks like he’s back to his Boilermaker ways. He hit .359 with 13 home runs as a freshman. If he’s back in form, look for Gaffney somewhere in the middle of the Clemson lineup. In theory, he’s one of the scariest bats on the roster. Hopefully, that theory becomes a reality for the Tigers this season.
Gaffney is a solid athlete and can play right field or behind the plate if needed, but first base will be his initial station. Clemson’s infield is going to be extremely athletic.
Second Base
#23 – Jarren Purify – 5’10”, 190 – Jr.
Bats/Throws: R/R
2024 – 25 Stats
Team
ST
AVG
OPS
R
H
HR
RBI
Clemson
57
.298
.879
54
62
6
35
Info
As a returning team captain from the 2025 squad, much is expected of Purify this season. His game is built around speed and athleticism, and he’s got both in spades. He’s a line-drive hitter who knows what to do once he gets on the basepaths and should be a top-of-the-order hitter.
While Purify is an excellent hitter, he’s an even better fielder. He has great range for a second baseman and is slick in the double play.
Third Base
#4 – Tryston McCladdie – 5’11”, 190 – Jr.
Bats/Throws: L/R
Team
ST
AVG
OPS
R
H
HR
RBI
Clemson
27
.287
.903
23
27
5
19
Info
McCladdie is the Swiss Army Knife in the Clemson lineup. He’ll start at third, but he can play anywhere other than pitcher and catcher, and he’ll be deployed accordingly. He had the fewest starts of any infielder in Clemson’s 2026 projected starting lineup, but he did lead the Tigers in games off the bench last season due to his versatility.
Regardless of where he’s playing on the field, he’s a tough left-handed outfielder with decent power for his rather diminutive size. Like Lichtenberger, he could feature at either the top or bottom of the lineup because of his ability to get on base.
Short Stop
#8 – Tyler Lichtenberger – 6’0”,195 – So.
Bats/Throws: L/R
Team
ST
AVG
OPS
R
H
HR
RBI
App St.
53
.341
.879
40
70
3
37
Info
Tyler is the new addition to the infield after a stellar freshman season at Appalachian State, where he earned Sun Belt Conference Freshman-of-the-Year award and first team all-conference honors. He’s a solid contact hitter from the left side of the plate and could slot in at the top or bottom of the lineup, depending on what Coach Backich is looking for on any given day. He failed to reach base in only 6 games last season and has solid speed once he gets on.
He’s a plus defender and should give the Tigers solid defense up the middle of the field with Jarren Purify. Clemson could have one of the better double-play combinations in the ACC if everything works out according to plan, and Lichtenberger moves seamlessly into the lineup.
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Reserves
First Base / DH
#13 – Collin Priest – 6’3”, 260 – Jr.
Team
ST
AVG
OPS
R
H
HR
RBI
Clemson
57
.240
.887
36
41
12
52
Info
Priest is built like a tight end. When he hits the ball, the ball stays hit. Unfortunately, Priest didn’t make as much contact with the ball as he would have liked last season after transferring from Michigan. He hit .279 with a .578 slugging percentage as a freshman with the Wolverines. Hopefully, the ball finds his bat a few more times this season.
Third/First/DH
#10 – Jason Fultz Jr.- 6’0”, 215 – Fr.
Considered the 37th-best overall freshman in the 2026 class by Perfect Game and the 86th-best freshman in the nation by D1Baseball. He’s considered one of the best professional prospects on the team and has the type of power that could make a difference in the Clemson lineup if it’s calibrated to college pitching.
Fultz is the talent, and the one thing I know about coaching is you get your talent on the field. Look for him to displace the versatile McCladdie at third sooner, rather than later.
Infield
#44 – Dylan Harrison – 6’5”, 215 – Fr.
Harrison joins Fultz as one of the highest-rated prospects in the 2026 freshman class. Perfect Game Baseball considers him the 21st-best prospect in the 2028 draft. He’s considered more of a pro prospect in the field than on the mound, but Clemson will give him an opportunity to do both. Like Fultz, he’s got dynamite in his bat when he makes contact.
Second Base
#21 – Jay Dillard – 5’9”, 175 – Jr.
Heading into his third season in the program, Dillard is ready to make his mark in the 2026 season after playing in 18 games and starting 5 last season. I’m not sure about the rest of his game, but he’s patient at the plate, drawing 6 walks in 16 plate appearances. He’s a plus fielder who should provide solid depth up the middle for the Tigers.
Overall
I’m far from an expert on this roster (yet), but based on my research, I’m excited to see what the Tigers can do with these pieces. Can the veterans hold off the young bucks for their spot in the starting lineup? Harrison and Fultz are the future of the program, and the future could be now if any of the projected starters falter.
The defense should be elite; if they can get the power guys to produce, things could get exciting on the basepaths in Tiger Town.
DENVER, CO - FEBRUARY 11: Jamal Murray #27 of the Denver Nuggets dribbles the ball during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on February 11, 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 Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Before the 2026 NBA All-Star Game kicks off from the new home of the Los Angeles Clippers, the Intuit Dome, on Sunday, the league is gathering for another rendition of All-Star Saturday featuring the Dunk Contest and the Three-Point Shootout.
The Dunk Contest has fallen on hard times as of late, and once again there’s a disappointing field of participants. Mac McClung isn’t around to save the dunk contest this year, but there is one NBA All-Star in the field. Meanwhile, the Three-Point Contest features two top rookies, plus an aging superstar who hasn’t played a game this season because of an injury. Let’s make predictions for the dunk and three-point contests ahead of All-Star Saturday.
NBA Dunk Contest 2026 field and prediction
Here’s the field at the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest:
Jase Richardson, G, Orlando Magic: The son of two-time dunk contest champ Jason Richardson is a rookie guard for the Orlando Magic who was picked No. 25 overall out of Michigan State. He’s listed at 6’1, 180 pounds, and has never been known for his hops like his old man.
Jalen Duren, C, Detroit Pistons: Duren is a first-time All-Star for the Pistons and one of the best young bigs in the league. Listed at 6’10, 250 pounds, he’s about the same size as Dwight Howard when he won the the Dunk Contest in 2008.
Carter Bryant, F, San Antonio Spurs: A strong and athletic 6’8 wing, Bryant was chosen by the Spurs with the No. 14 overall pick in hopes of being a 3-and-D wing around Victor Wembanyama long-term.
Jaxson Hayes, C, Los Angeles Lakers: Athletic backup center for the Lakers.
Our pick: Jaxson Hayes. It’s hard for a big man to win the dunk contest, but I saw Hayes an under-the-leg in-game a couple weeks ago, so I figure he’s got a deep bag for a contest like this. He’s so long and bouncy that could produce some cool dunks.
Here’s the field for the 2026 NBA Three-Point Contest:
Kon Knueppel, G, Charlotte Hornets: Kneuppel is the front-runner to win Rookie of the Year. The No. 4 overall pick looks like a potential franchise player for the upstart Charlotte Hornets.
Damian Lillard, G, Portland Trail Blazers: Lillard hasn’t played a game this season as he recovers from a torn Achilles. It was shocking to see him on this list. He’s going for his third title in this contest after winning it in 2023 and 2024.
Devin Booker, G, Phoenix Suns: An All-Star and one of the best shooting guards in the league, Booker is the leader of a surprisingly feisty Suns team.
Jamal Murray, G, Denver Nuggets: A first-time All-Star and NBA champion, Murray is a big shot taker and maker.
Tyrese Maxey, G, Philadelphia 76ers: An All-Star guard playing at an All-NBA level, Maxey’s combination of speed and touch is one of the best in the world.
Donovan Mitchell, G, Cleveland Cavaliers: The Cavs superstar is arguably the best American-born player in the league right now.
Norman Powell, G, Miami Heat: A first-time All-Star at age-32, Powell can fill it up as a microwave scorer.
Bobby Portis, F, Milwaukee Bucks: A veteran forward and NBA champion, Portis is a cult hero up in Milwaukee who has always been a stretch forward.
Our pick: Jamal Murray. Murray always rises to the occasion. I think he’ll be looking to prove himself in his first ever All-Star Weekend, and that starts by ripping the nights on Saturday night.
BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 8: The sneakers worn by Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics during the game against the New York Knicks on February 8, 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
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - DECEMBER 18: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers in action during a game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center on December 18, 2025 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Thanks to Luka Dončić’s best effort to recover from his hamstring strain, it appears likely that he will be representing the Lakers in the All-Star Game on Sunday.
Luka dealt with a hamstring strain for more than a week that caused him to miss the last four Lakers games before the All-Star break.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, that workout went well and Luka playing this weekend is still the plan.
The Lakers’ Luka Dončić is indeed on course to play for a short stint in Sunday’s All-Star Game after a strong pregame workout Thursday, league sources tell @TheSteinLine. pic.twitter.com/nUvNyyN8Gf
Before the Lakers took on the Mavs, Lakers head coach JJ Redick said Luka was expected to return after the All-Star break. It seems that timeline is accurate and Luka will even play in this weekend’s signature contest.
Also important to note that Stein reports Luka will play a short stint. Even in an All-Star Game that few take seriously, there is risk for injury. So, it’d be wise for Luka to take it easy and just play for a moment so fans can celebrate their local star.
This will be Luka’s first time participating in the All-Star Game as a Laker.
Dončić was the top vote-getter in the NBA, and with the festivities taking place in Los Angeles, he will be one of the biggest stars this weekend.
Luka is having one of the best years of his career, averaging a league-high 32.8points per game. He will represent and play for Team World in this new All-Star format.
Luka’s return is great news. It means he should be good to go once the Lakers begin regular-season play, and it’s another example of how much he loves the game and wants to give back to his fans.
He worked hard to return as quickly as possible, and barring a setback, it seems he’ll be on the court Sunday as the NBA celebrates its biggest stars.
The new format for the 2026 All-Star Game throws MVP betting into chaos. As much as betting on the best player, a smart gambler identifies which team is likely to win the event. Thus, before even pondering Victor Wembanyama, Anthony Edwards and Kevin Durant, the round-robin format must be considered.
The "World" team should be a shoe-in for the championship game. Of the NBA's MVP candidates, the "World" team may feature ... all of them. Combining Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama is a bit of a cheat code, certainly in a 12-minute game where fatigue should not be an issue.
Of the two U.S. teams, the "Stripes" are veteran-laden. LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Kawhi Leonard should capitalize on one last chance to team up. Favor the team heavy with Olympic gold medalists, all due respect to the "Stars" and Anthony Edwards and Devin Booker.
This may be LeBron James' last All-Star Game. The 12-minute games should allow him to run without tiring, and those runs should lead to a few highlight-worthy dunks.
Getting the chance to bet James at effectively 19-to-1 odds is too delightful a chance to turn down, particularly if trusting "Stripes" to reach the final.
2026 NBA All-Star Game MVP odds
2026 NBA All-Star Game MVP Award analysis
Victor Wembanyama may be the clear favorite, but everyone in the NBA will defer to King James if the vibe takes hold.
Betting on the NBA All-Star Game MVP Award at Kalshi is simple: If you want to wager on Victor Wembanyama to win, you'll "invest" in his stock at 23 cents in the hopes of winning $1 when the market is settled.
Each market is priced based on implied probability, which can be converted to American, Decimal, or Fraction odds using the Covers odds converter.
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 Eagles win this Sunday?" 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 the NBA All-Star Game MVP Award at Kalshi?
Kalshi offers four unique advantages over traditional sportsbooks:
Flexibility: Unlike a "locked-in" bet, you can sell your contract at any time.
Transparency: You trade against other users, which can allow you to find better value.
Federal regulation: As a CFTC-regulated exchange, your funds are held in a secure, transparent environment.
Availability: Kalshi is available in many regions where traditional sportsbooks aren't yet legal.
Bad Bunny offered to pay Carlos Correa’s insurance for the World Baseball Classic.
Major League Baseball, the Astros and his agent, Scott Boras, told the Astros infielder to think again.
“They all told me it was a bad idea,” Correa told The Athletic. “They all told me the insurance company that was proposed to me had cases where they were not paying players back. Since it was not approved by MLB, not approved by the organization and not approved by my agent, I could not sign my life away with something that three people that I trust are telling me not to do.”
Bad Bunny performs onstage during the Apple Music Super Bowl 2026 Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. Getty Images
Correa, one of several players not cleared to play in the tournament, still expressed his appreciation for Bad Bunny’s offer.
“It means a lot that he’s that involved,” Correa said of his countryman. “He tried to do everything possible … I’m deeply grateful that he tried that hard.”
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, offered to pay the insurance for Mets star Francisco Lindor, who was also denied by National Financial Partners, which is the insurer for the WBC.
Team Puerto Rico was hit hard by insurance issues, with Blue Jays right-hander José Berríos and Twins catcher Victor Caratini also not being cleared.
Carlos Correa #1 of the Houston Astros looks on during the game between the Houston Astros and the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on Saturday, September 27, 2025 in Anaheim, California. MLB Photos via Getty Images
