PEORIA, ARIZONA - MARCH 12: Gavin Sheets #30 of the San Diego Padres grounds out in the second inning against the Kansas City Royals during a spring training game at Peoria Stadium on March 12, 2026 in Peoria, Arizona. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) | Getty Images
San Diego Padres at Texas Rangers, March 14, 2026, 1:05 p.m. PST
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MESA, ARIZONA - MARCH 8: Zyhir Hope #94 of the Los Angeles Dodgers makes a catch in left field during a Spring Training game against the Athletics at HoHoKam Stadium on March 8, 2026 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Both Camelback Ranch co-tenants face off on Saturday afternoon, with the Dodgers as the road team against the White Sox. Non-roster invitee Zyhir Hope, a consensus top-100 prospect, leads the Dodgers with 19 games played this spring, missing only one day thus far. On Saturday, he makes his first start this spring, in left field.
Lineup
Andy Pages CF Kyle Tucker DH Mookie Betts SS Freddie Freeman 1B Max Muncy 3B Alex Freeland 2B Dalton Rushing C Zach Ehrhard RF Zyhir Hope LF
Justin Wrobleski is on the mound.
Mookie Betts after the birth of his third child. Kyle Tucker is starting back-to-back days for the first time this spring.
Other pitchers
Tanner Scott, Alex Vesia, and Jack Dreyer are slated to pitch on Saturday, along with non-roster invitee Chris Campos.
From the minor league side of camp are Davis Chastain (wearing number 87), Joseilyn Gonzalez (89), Nicolas Cruz (90), and Dilan Figueredo (91).
Other position players
Michael Siani is active, as is the non-roster mainstays Ryan Fitzgerald, James Tibbs III, Nick Senzel, Noah Miller, Eliézer Alfonzo, and Seby Zavala.
Up from minor league camp are Chris Newell (00) amd Kole Myers (01). Also active for the first time this spring are Taylor Young (03), Jaron Elkins (02), and Chase Harlan (96), second-day draft picks from 2022, 2023, and 2024 respectively. Elkins last season was second in the Dodgers minors (to Kendall George) with 63 steals with a 91.3-percent success rate, and Young was fifth with 44 steals.
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - MARCH 10: Myles Turner #3 of the Milwaukee Bucks drives to the basket on Royce O'Neale #00 of the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Fiserv Forum on March 10, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 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 John Fisher/Getty Images) | Getty Images
In this week’s Tuesday Tracker and SB Nation Reacts poll, we asked about the Bucks’ two centers, plus their closeness to the Pelicans in the lottery standings and Taurean Prince. Here are the highlights:
There’s close to an even split among our respondents on who should be seeing the lion’s share of minutes at the five. 52% think Myles Turner should be playing more (he’s averaging 27.5 MPG this year and just 22.7 MPG since the All-Star break) than Jericho Sims (17.7 and 24.5, respectively).
However, the numbers slightly skew the other way when considering end-of-game scenarios: 51% think Sims should be Milwaukee’s closing center.
The majority of fans polled (75%) don’t care about the Pelicans’ place in the lottery standings relative to the Bucks. Right now, New Orleans is a half-game away from rising out of sixth to seventh, while Milwaukee is a game ahead of ninth.
If the season ended today, the Bucks would receive the 10th overall pick 60.7% of the time in the draft lottery. 78% of voters would want Milwaukee to make that pick come June instead of trading it, either for star talent or future firsts.
Thanks again for voting! Check back on Tuesday for another slate of questions.
Check out FanDuel, the official sportsbook of SB Nation.
Dec 19, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Winnipeg Jets center Adam Lowry (17) and Colorado Avalanche center Brock Nelson (11) take a face off from referee Chris Lee (28) in the first period at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
The Colorado Avalanche have been soaring to incredible heights all season.
Today, the highest-flying team in the NHL will fly into Canadian airspace at Canada Life Center against Connor Hellebuyck and the Winnipeg Jets to finish off their two game road swing.
Colorado Avalanche (44-11-9)
The Opponent: Winnipeg Jets (26-28-10)
Time: 2:00 P.M. MDT/4:00 P.M. EDT
Watch: ALT, ALT+ (Avalanche Local Broadcast Area), TSN3 (Winnipeg Local Broadcast Area), ESPN+, NHL Center Ice (Outside Regional Broadcast Areas – US), SN+, NHL Centre Ice (Canadian Broadcast Areas)
Listen: Altitude Sports Radio KKSE-FM 92.5 FM
Colorado Avalanche
The Avalanche come into today’s game fresh off a 5-1 victory over the reeling Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena on Tuesday night. The Avs would regain the services of Nathan MacKinnon, who returned to the lineup after being served a major penalty (courtesy of on-ice officials Kelly Sutherland and Brandon Schrader) and a corresponding game misconduct (which was rescinded by the NHL on Thursday) upon colliding with Edmonton Oilers goaltender Connor Ingram (courtesy of Edmonton defenseman Darnell Nurse) in the 4-3 loss on Tuesday night. If MacKinnon was harboring any resentment after the events of Tuesday night, he channeled all of it towards Seattle’s Joey Daccord and Philipp Grubauer, resulting in a four point effort (1G/3A/4PTS), which included the game-winning tally, in the win. Martin Nečas scored his 30th goal of the season for the first time in his career, and Nazem Kadri scored his first regular season goal in a Colorado sweater since April 29, 2022, en route to the victory. Scott Wedgewood stopped 28 of 29 shots for his 25th win of the season, extending his career high.
With this victory, the Avalanche maintained a five point lead over the Dallas Stars—who defeated Edmonton by a score of 7-2 Thursday evening—and still hold a critical game in hand over their second place rivals. They remain the undisputed leader across the Central Division, Western Conference, and League standings. Coach Jared Bednar said after Thursday’s game, “Every win matters this time of the year. We’re trying to hang on to first place. Teams around us are winning, and to get a start like that [tonight], and have those guys feel good about their game is real important this time of year.”
Today’s game marks the first of two visits to Winnipeg in a two week span for the Avs. Both teams previously met on December 19 back at Ball Arena, a 3-2 Avalanche victory. Parker Kelly scored what proved to be the game winner in that contest. Look for Mackenzie Blackwood to get the start in Winnipeg today, as he looks to rebound from a performance on Tuesday night where he gave his teammates plenty of time to take control of the contest, but ultimately was unable to provide key saves when his defenders weren’t at their best.
Coach Bednar deployed eleven skaters at the forward positions on Thursday, along with seven defensemen. This saw the debut of Nick Blankenburg, acquired from Nashville just before the trade deadline, in an Avalanche sweater. Blankenburg, fared decently in his first outing with his new team, but as the seventh defenseman, had a team low 9:31 among the blue line corps. At the time of this writing, the Avalanche haven’t called anyone up from Loveland (which would be a curious decision given that there can be only five call-ups to use between now and the end of the regular season), and Ross Colton’s status is still unknown, so it’s possible that Bednar considers using this same lineup against Winnipeg and allow Blankenburg another opportunity to showcase his abilities.
Even with his four point performance on Thursday, Nathan MacKinnon trails Edmonton’s Connor McDavid in the overall points lead (MacKinnon has 108 points; McDavid leads the League with 111). His 44 goals on the season still lead all NHL skaters. Nečas is now tied for second in team goal scoring with Brock Nelson (30). Cale Makar remains one goal away from a fourth consecutive 20 goal season.
Projected Lineup
Forwards: Nazem Kadri – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Nečas Joel Kiviranta – Brock Nelson – Valeri Nichushkin Parker Kelly – Nicolas Roy – Gavin Brindley Zakhar Bardakov – Jack Drury
Defense: Devon Toews – Cale Makar Josh Manson – Brent Burns Brett Kulak – Sam Malinski Nick Blankenburg
Between the Pipes: Mackenzie Blackwood Scott Wedgewood
Winnipeg Jets
After capturing the Presidents Trophy as the League’s best team in the regular season with 56 wins last year, an encore performance seemed all but certain. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was awarded his second straight Vezina Trophy as the League’s best goaltender, and secured the Hart Trophy for the first time. However, their dominant run saw an early exit in the second round of the postseason at the hands of the Dallas Stars. GM Kevin Cheveldayoff got to work through the next several months, locking up several key figures to long-term, lucrative contracts: defenseman Neal Pionk (six years, $42 million dollars), center Gabe Vilardi (six years, $45 million dollars), left wing Kyle Connor (eight years, $96 million dollars) and captain Adam Lowry (five years, $25 million dollars). Cheveldayoff also signed former Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews, who hadn’t seen NHL action since the end of the 2022-2023 season, to a one-year contract. Management made their commitment to the roster, and the future was looking bright.
Winnipeg didn’t have as dominant of a start to the 2025 – 2026 season began, as they went 12-8 in the first twenty games. However, Hellebuyck underwent knee surgery on November 22nd, causing him to miss three weeks of action. The Jets lost eight of their next ten games without Hellebuyck, and eleven of twelve games after his return on December 13. With Colorado, Dallas, and Minnesota all but untouchable at the top of the Central Division standings, and Utah making a strong case for wild card consideration, Winnipeg was fighting an uphill battle, as they fought to prevent sinking to the Central Division basement. Currently, a stretch of .500 hockey coming out of the Olympic break sees Winnipeg seven points out of the second wild card spot in the Western Conference. However, just one point separates them from cellar-dwelling Chicago.
With their hopes for playoff contention fading, Winnipeg traded defensemen Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for right wing Isak Rosén, defenseman Jacob Bryson, a conditional 2026 4th round pick, and a 2027 2nd-round pick prior to the trade deadline. They would later trade left wing Tanner Pearson to Buffalo for a 2026 7th round pick on trade deadline day. It would take a lot to close the gap on the teams ahead of them in the wild card race, but a successful weekend at home could help turn the tide in their favor.
Winnipeg is currently in the midst of an eight game homestand, and today’s game against Colorado serves as the first half of a back to back set of weekend games, with the St. Louis Blues paying a visit to Canada Life Center on Sunday afternoon. Winnipeg has lost its previous two games, a 4-1 defeat at the hands (wings?) of the Anaheim Ducks, and a 6-3 loss courtesy of the New York Rangers. Hellebuyck started the previous seven of Winnipeg’s eight games since the return from winning Olympic gold with the United States (and teammate Kyle Connor) in Italy, and is likely to start again today. While Hellebuyck has been a formidable opponent against Colorado, he will face them with a depleted blue line, as both Pionk and Colin Miller remain out of the lineup due to injury. Other notable absences include former Avalanche center Vladislav Namestnikov and right wing Nino Niedereitter.
Center Mark Scheifele currently leads all Winnipeg skaters in goals (30), assists (49), and points (79). Connor is second in all three categories (29G/43A/72PTS). Defenseman Josh Morrissey, who earned a silver medal with Team Canada in Italy, leads all Winnipeg defensemen in all three categories (11G/33A/44PTS).
Projected Lineup
Forwards: Kyle Connor – Mark Scheifele – Alex Iafallo Cole Perfetti – Adam Lowry – Gabe Vilardi Gustav Nyquist – Jonathan Toews – Isak Rosén Cole Koepke – Morgan Barron – Brad Lambert
Defense: Josh Morrissey – Dylan DeMelo Dylan Samberg – Elias Salomonsson Haydn Fleury – Jacob Bryson
WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 4: Will Riley #27 of the Washington Wizards handles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics on December 4, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. 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 2025 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Washington Wizards (16-49) at Boston Celtics (43-23) Saturday, March 14, 2026 6:00 PM ET Regular Season Game #67 Home Game #32 TV: NBCSB, MNMT2, NBA-TV Radio: 98.5 Sports Hub, 106.7 The Fan, Sirius XM TD Garden
The Celtics host the Washington Wizards for the 3rd, and final, meeting between these two teams this season. The Celtics beat the Wizards 136-107 in Boston on November 5 and hey beat them 146-101 in Washington on December 4. The Celtics won the series 4-0 last season winning 1 game at home and 3 games on the road. The Celtics are 208-120 overall against the Wizards all time. They are 109-44 all time in games played in Boston. The Celtics have won their last 10 games against the Wizards.
The Wizards made significant changes at the trade deadline. They traded Corey Kispert and CJ McCollum to the Atlanta Hawks for Trae Young. They also traded Khris Middleton, Malachai Branham, Marvin Bagley III, and AJ Johnson to the Mavericks for Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell, Jaden Hardy and Dante Exum. They then waived Dante Exum.
The Celtics are 2nd in the East, 4.5 games behind 1st place Detroit. They are 1.5 games ahead of 3rd place New York , 3 games ahead of 4th place Cleveland, 5.5 games ahead of 5th place Orlando and 6th place Miami and 6.5 games ahead of 7th place Toronto. The Celtics are 28-14 against Eastern Conference opponents. They are 21-10 at home and 6-4 in their last 10 games. They have lost their last 2 games. (The Pistons, Knicks, Cavs, and Raptors are playing as I write this so that may change.)
The Wizards are 14th in the East, 31 games behind 1st place Detroit, 17 games behind 10th place Charlotte, 11 games behind 11th place Milwaukee, 10.5 games behind 12th place Chicago, and half a game behind 13th place Brooklyn. They are 1.5 games ahead of 15th place Indiana. They are 11-30 against Eastern Conference opponents. They are 5-27 on the road and 0-10 in their last 10 games. They are on a 10 game losing streak.
After this game at home against Washington, the Celtics will host Phoenix and Golden State. Then they will play one game at Memphis before a 3 game home stand against Minnesota, Oklahoma City and Atlanta. Then it’s back on the road for a 4 game trip through Charlotte, Atlanta, Miami and Milwaukee. They will then play two games at home against Toronto and Charlotte before one game on the road at New York. They will finish the season with 2 games at home against New Orleans and Orlando.
The Wizards are playing in the 4th game of a 4 game road trip. After this, they will have a 4 game home stand where they will host Golden State, Detroit twice, and Oklahoma City. Then, they have a 5 game road trip through New York, Utah, Golden State, Portland and the LA Lakers. After one game at home against Philadelphia, they play at Miami and at Brooklyn.
Jayson Tatum missed Thursday’s game due to injury management for his Achilles. He is expected to play in this game. Derrick White also missed Thursday’s game with knee soreness and is probable for this game. Baylor Scheierman has been playing with a fractured thumb but is listed as probable for this game with ankle soreness. Nikola Vucevic remains out due to surgery on his injured finger.
For the Wizards, Anthony Davis is recovering from ligament damage in his left hand and, although he has been cleared for some individual on court activity, he is out for this game. Kyshawn George is out with a partial tear of the UCL in his left elbow. Cam Whitmore is out for the season with a diagnosed venous condition. D’Angelo Russell has not played for the Wizards since he was traded but it is not injury related and he is not with the team. Sharife Cooper is questionable with an ankle injury.
Probable Starting Matchups PG: Derrick White vs Trae Young
Derrick White | NBAE via Getty ImagesTrae Young | Getty Images
SG: Baylor Scheierman vs Tre Johnson
Baylor Scheierman | NBAE via Getty ImagesTre Johnson | Getty Images
SF: Jaylen Brown vs Bilal Coulibaly
Jaylen Brown | NBAE via Getty ImagesBilal Coulibaly | NBAE via Getty Images
Neemias Queta | Boston Globe via Getty ImagesAlex Sarr | NBAE via Getty Images
Celtics Reserves Payton Pritchard Hugo Gonzalez Luka Garza Amare Williams Jordan Walsh Sam Hauser 2-Way Players Ron Harper, Jr Max Shulga John Tonje Injuries/Out Nikola Vucevic (finger) out Derrick White (knee) probable Jayson Tatum (injury available Baylor Scheierman (ankle) probable Head Coach Joe Mazzulla Wizards Reserves Bub Carrington Anthony Gill Jaden Hardy Tristan Vukcevic Jamir Watkins Justin Champagnie 2-Way Players Leaky Black Sharife Cooper Juju Reese
Injuries/Out Sharife Cooper (ankle) questionable Anthony Davis (finger) out Kyshawn George (elbow) out D’Angelo Russell (not injury related) out Cam Whitmore (shoulder) out
Head Coach Brian Keefe
Key Matchups Derrick White vs Trae Young Young is averaging 18.2 points, 1.8 rebounds and 8.4 assists per game. He is shooting 43.9% from the field and 32.9% from beyond the arc. He has not played against the Celtics this season with the Hawks or with the Wizards. He has averaged 25.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 7.5 assists in 15 games against the Celtics in his career.
Neemias Queta vs Alex Sarr Sarr was the 2nd overall pick in last year’s draft and is playing well for the Wizards. He is averaging 17.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 2.0 blocks per game. He is shooting 49.9% from the field and 34.6% from beyond the arc. In one game against the Celtics this season, he finished with 31 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 blocks. The Celtics need to stay with him on defense and also keep hm off the boards as well as be aware of his ability to block shots. Honorable Mention Baylor Scheierman vs Tre Johnson Johnson is averaging 12.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.0 assists. He is shooting 42.9% from the field and 37.7% from beyond the arc. In one game against the Celtics this season, he finished with 7 points, 1 rebound, and 1 assist while shooting 40% from the field and 50% from beyond the arc,.
Keys to the Game Defense – Defense is always the key to winning games. The Celtics are now 5th with a defensive rating of 111.9. The Wizards are 29th with a defensive rating of 120.5. Although the Wizards have an offensive rating of 109.6 (27th), they can get hot at any time if they are not being defended. They beat the Pistons on the road and so the Celtics need to take them seriously and play lock down defense from start to finish and not allow them to get their offense going.
Rebound – Rebounding is also one of the biggest keys to winning. The Wizards are 23rd with 42.9 rebounds per game while the Celtics are 5th with 46.3 rebounds per game. They simply have to fight harder to grab rebounds than the Wizards. Much of rebounding is effort as evidenced by Payton Pritchard being the shortest guy on the court most nights and averaging over 4 rebounds per game. Every Celtic has got to crash the boards and fight for every rebound.
Don’t Underestimate – The Wizards are next to last in the East and actively tanking. The Celtics can’t take the Wizards for granted, even though they beat them handily twice already this season. Even tanking teams want to beat the Celtics. The Wizards wins have come mostly against middle of the pack teams, but they did beat Detroit as well. The Celtics have to take the Wizards seriously and play hard.
Maximum Effort for 48 Minutes – Many of the Celtics losses this season can be traced back to a lack of effort. Also, at times it seems that they either start off slowly and end up in a hole that they need to dig themselves out of or they jump out to a lead only to let up in the second half and allow their opponent to get back into the game and make it close. The Celtics have to play hard on both ends of the court for the full 48 minutes with no let up.
X-Factors Home Game – The Celtics are once again at home. They should get a boost from the home crowd and from being in familiar surroundings. The Celtics need to have a sense of urgency at home to protect home court and not expect to win because the Wizards have been tanking. The Wizards will have to deal with travel, staying in a hotel, and a hostile crowd and hopefully that will give the Celtics the advantage.
Officiating – Officiating is always an x-factor in every game. Every crew officiates differently. Some call it tight, others let them play. Some favor the home team. Some favor the road team. Some just make bad, head scratching calls as we have seen many times. The ejection of Jaylen Brown and the foulcalled with .8 left against the Thunder are examples of how officiating can be an x-factor. The Celtics need to adjust to the way the refs call the game and not let bad calls and no calls take them out of the game or affect their focus.
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 31: Kon Knueppel #7 of the Charlotte Hornets guards Harrison Barnes #40 of the San Antonio Spurs during their game at Spectrum Center on January 31, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to the Game Thread. Veterans of the Game Thread know how we do things around here, but for all you newbies we have a few rules. Our community guidelines apply and basically say be cool, no personal attacks, don’t troll and don’t swear too much.
Today is an auspicious day, as it’s π day, and also Albert Einstein’s birthday, who entered this world on March 14, 1879. It’s also the final game of the current six game home stand, as the Spurs face the Charlotte Hornets, who previously defeated the Spurs 111-106 on January 31, just before the Silver and Black’s undefeated February run of 11 straight wins. San Antonio is coming off of a tough loss to the Nuggets, who used an unstoppable offensive surge from Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic to take over the game in the fourth quarter. The Spurs had incredible offensive efforts from Stephon Castle and De’Aaron Fox, but without Victor Wemanyama to anchor the defense, they just couldn’t get enough stops to hold on late. Some might say that the Spurs ran out of gas, but the fact is that the Nuggets kept their foot on the gas pedal, and they outran the home team late to take the win.
Victor is listed as questionable for today’s game, and Dylan Harper is a little banged up with a calf contusion. The Hornets have been one of the league’s hottest teams in 2026, and shoot and make a lot of three points shots. Kon Knueppel is having a terrific rookie season, and is shooting 44% on three-point shots, so the Spurs will have to keep an eye on him. This is just the kind of team that gives the Spurs defense fits, so the Spurs can’t afford to let down after the emotional letdown from Thursday night’s contest. Stephon Castle’s defense will be key for this game, and Castle must dominate Ball. The Spurs always seem a little out of sorts for these early afternoon games, so it’s probably a good idea to have coffee in the locker room before the game. Let’s GOOO Spurs!!
Game Prediction:
Victor Wembanyama will surprise the team with a selection of pies in the locker room for PI day. The game will be slightly delayed due to blueberry stains of some of the players’ jerseys.
San Antonio Spurs vs Charlotte Hornets March 14, 2026 | 2:30 PM CT Streaming: FanDuel Sports Southwest, Prime TV: FanDuel Sports Southwest, Prime Reminder: It is against site policy to post links to illegal streams in the comments.
TEMPE, AZ - MARCH 10: Jo Adell #7 of the Los Angeles Angels warms up prior to the game between the San Diego Padres and the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Julia Jacome/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Seattle’s WBC-sapped lineups have led to a degree of drudgery in their play. As the World Baseball Classic quarterfinals conclude this evening, the Mariners will likely see more of their most prominent players return to the fold. Still here, however, is Logan Gilbert, who will give the familiar Angels a few turns through the order in his likely penultimate tune-up start before the season begins.
Anaheim brings to bear most of the main lineup, a good refinement test for Gilbert.
Today’s game information:
Game time: 1:10 PM PT
TV: None. Plenty of teams have chosen not to bother going against the WBC, but Anaheim is just like this.
HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 11: Francisco Cervelli #29 of Italy celebrates with his team after defeating Mexico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic - Pool B at Daikin Park on March 11, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Houston Astros/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The favorites prevailed during last night’s World Baseball Classic quarterfinals, as Team USA defeated Canada, 5-3, and the Dominican Republic handed down a whooping on South Korea that became mercy-rule clinch on an Austin Wells three-run homer. A can’t-miss showdown between the mighty Dominican lineup and defending NL Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes is on deck for tomorrow night, but before we get there, the other semifinal must be determined.
Today’s victors will square off on Monday night with a WBC Championship Game berth on the line. The first game will begin as the Yankees’ spring training matinee comes to a close, and though there will be a gap of a few hours between when Game 1 ends and Game 2 starts, we’ll leave this thread up until the nightcap comes to a close. As he did earlier today, Kento will run through the quarterfinal results.
First up is a rumble between two teams that might not have been popular picks to advance this far in the first place. Who had Italy winning Pool B, let alone standing with Japan and the Dominican Republic as the only undefeated teams? Credit to Francisco Cervelli’s club though, as they took care of business against Brazil and Great Britain, pulled off an upset for the ages over Team USA, and then let captain Vinnie Pasquantino take over in the clincher against Mexico. The first baseman became the first player in WBC history with a three-homer game and espresso-chuggin’ Italy is now eyeing a WBC semifinal appearance for the first time (they lost to Japan, 9-3, in their only other quarterfinals appearance in 2023). On the whole, it’s been a well-rounded attack, as nine different players have homered. They have quite a few good major leaguers of Italian heritage and could very well be a problem for Pasquantino’s Kansas City teammate, Seth Lugo of Puerto Rico.
Normally, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Puerto Ricans in the knockout round, but considering they were unable to roster Francisco Lindor, Carlos Correa, Javier Báez, and José Berríos due to various injuries, eligibility, and insurance issues? It’s an achievement, and one that probably wouldn’t have been possible without an electric extra-innings walk-off homer in San Juan by Lindor’s replacement at shortstop, A’s infielder Darell Hernáiz. Italy might actually have them on overall big-league talent and Puerto Rico really hasn’t hit that much, but Lugo’s demonstrated some moxie before, and Puerto Rico could cook up a little more magic to advance — especially because Italy’s starter Sam Aldegheri (an actual Italian!) only has five career MLB starts. And if it comes down to a battle of the bullpens, well, Edwin Díaz is a nice ace to have in the hole.
How to watch
Italy vs. Puerto Rico Pitching Matchup: LHP Sam Aldegheri vs. RHP Seth Lugo Time: 3:00 pm ET TV: FS1 Location: Daikin Park — Houston, TX
I am legitimately looking forward to Italy vs. Puerto Rico. They’re close teams and this should be fun!
But in comparison to Japan vs. Venezuela… boy howdy. This one should be a real barnburner. Do I even really need to write a couple paragraphs to hype this up? The roll call of notable names here speaks for itself. Shohei Ohtani! Ronald Acuña Jr.! Seiya Suzuki! Eugenio Suárez! Munetaka Murakami! Luis Arraez!
The Venezuelan lineup actually runs even deeper, including Salvador Perez, Jackson Chourio, the Super Contreras Bros, and old friend Gleyber Torres. They have one of MLB’s best southpaws going for them too in Ranger Suarez, late of the Phillies and now of the Red Sox. But you know who’s coming off a postseason that proved he can take on anyone at anytime and probably be the favorite? World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto. There’s a pitch count limit of 80 so barring the most Maddux of Maddux gems, Japan will have to use another pitcher at some point. But Yamamoto can take this deep.
A sincere “best of luck” to the winner of Italy/Puerto Rico at having to face either of these foes.
How to watch
Japan vs. Venezuela Pitching Matchup: RHP Yoshinobu Yamamoto vs. LHP Ranger Suarez Time: 9:0 pm ET TV: Fox Location: loanDepot Park — Miami, FL
MESA, ARIZONA - MARCH 8: Justin Wrobleski #70 of the Los Angeles Dodgers throws a pitch during a Spring Training game against the Athletics at HoHoKam Stadium on March 8, 2026 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Justin Wrobleski and the Dodgers host the White Sox at Camelback Ranch for a Saturday matchup.
Big Baby hopefully, has done some growing up following a stint in prison.
Glen Davis, who played for three NBA teams over eight seasons in the league, was released this week from prison 17 months into a 40-month sentence for his part with several other former players in defrauding the league’s health insurance plan.
“They tried to hold me down. You know what I’m saying?” the 40-year-old Davis, a member of the Celtics’ 2008 championship team, declared earlier this week in a video posted to X. “But I’m back, man. I’m back, baby.”
Davis, 40, was among two dozen former players, also including former Lakers player Andrew Bynum, and doctors convicted in a Manhattan court in November 2023 of cheating the NBA Players’ Health and Benefit Welfare Plan out of more than $5 million over a four-year span for submitting bogus medical and dental claims.
You & Diamond… Been playing gaaammmmeezzzz!! BIG BABY FREE!! WELCOME HOME KING KILO!! pic.twitter.com/R1CWkLLZsK
Glen ‘Big Baby” Davis was released from prison. @RealKrisDLofton
The start of his sentence was initially delayed several months so he could complete a documentary he was working on to help pay some of the $80,000 in fines and restitution associated with this case.
Davis still faces time in a halfway house and three years of probation as part of his early release
Boston Celtics center Glen Davis (11) celebrates after making a free throw late in the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Hornets during the second half of their NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Louisiana March 19, 2011. REUTERS
“He used his time productively while serving his sentence and took many programs during that time,” attorney Brendan White told The Athletic.
“He’s ready to become a productive member of society again.”
CARDIFF, Wales (AP) — Wales tasted Six Nations success for the first time in 1,099 days after blowing away Italy 31-17 in Principality Stadium on Saturday.
The growing confidence from spirited losses against Scotland and Ireland spilled over into an unexpected and dominant bonus-point win, Wales' first in the championship since March 2023 when it beat Italy in Rome.
Wales was physical, direct and ruthless, leading 21-0 by halftime then 31-0 before Italy scored.
“That performance has been coming,” Wales coach Steve Tandy told broadcaster the BBC. “We've focused on not getting ahead of ourselves and making sure each part of our game improves. But the intent was there from the start from this young group. They’re desperate to learn and get better whether they win or lose. Their effort is amazing.”
Their scramble defense was also amazing as Italy had two tries disallowed, one held up, and another prevented by an ankle tap.
While Wales ended the nightmare of a national record 15-match losing streak in the Six Nations, it finished with a third consecutive wooden spoon.
“Not ideal to finish bottom of the table but everyone can see we're growing and moving in the right direction,” Wales No. 8 and player of the match Aaron Wainwright said. “The way we started today and hung in there shows how far we've come.”
Italy equaled its best Six Nations finish — fourth in 2007 and 2013 — but it wanted more, an historic third win in a single championship after beating Scotland and England. However, the Azzurri were smashed in the first half, and ultimately missed 30 tackles.
“We gave away too many penalties, too many times in their 22. ... We lost a lot of energy to try and max the energy Wales were giving,” Italy captain Michele Lamaro told ITV. “In the end it was too late. The first half cost us.”
Wales made the eight first-half penalties count.
A kick-chase penalty earned by workaholic winger Ellis Mee was booted into the corner and Wainwright crashed over. Despite lineout issues, Wales used the platform again to drive at the line for a second Wainwright try.
Another lineout drive finished with captain Dewi Lake touching down. With Dan Edwards a perfect four-of-four off the tee and nine-for-nine in the tournament, Wales was a deserved 21-0 up after 29 minutes.
They resumed from the second half kickoff. Edwards slanted through a tired defense, converted his try and chipped a drop goal for a scarcely believable 31-0 lead.
Italy ruled the last 30 minutes. But Wales still made it tough for the visitor.
Paolo Garbisi and replacements Tommaso Di Bartolomeo and Tommaso Allan dotted down for Italy but Wales' defense shone.
Mee held up hooker Giacomo Nicotera and made a try-saving tackle on opposite wing Monty Ioane, Edwards ankle-tapped Tommaso Menoncello when the midfielder looked like he was away, Tomos Williams stopped Allan on the tryline, and James Botham's sliding hip ruined a chance for Leonardo Marin.
“Those tries were not tries because (Wales) didn't give up,” Italy coach Gonzalo Quesada said. “The will was bigger for them. Their heart and physicality they put out there was stronger than ours, at least in the first half. That first half defined the game.”
Despite having promising names such as Brayden Yager, Colby Barlow, Kieron Walton and Kevin He developing within the organization, none were included in Button’s ranking. The list is difficult to crack, particularly with several high-end recent draft picks occupying prominent spots. Prospects like Anton Frondell, Brady Martin and Caleb Desnoyers headline the rankings, many of them still in junior or European leagues but carrying the pedigree of top draft selections.
That pedigree often carries significant weight in prospect rankings. Many of the players listed have yet to make the transition to professional hockey, but their draft status and projected ceilings keep them highly regarded among evaluators.
Both Yager and Barlow made the jump to the American Hockey League this season and have experienced quieter starts as they adjust to the pro game. While that transition period is common for young players, it can sometimes stall momentum in prospect rankings that prioritize immediate impact or standout performances.
Still, the omission of any Jets prospects feeds into a narrative that has followed the organization for years: the sense that Winnipeg teams and players often fly under the radar compared to larger markets around the league. While the names included on Button’s list are undeniably elite, there is a growing argument that a few Jets prospects could have warranted at least consideration.
One of the strongest cases belongs to Walton as the young forward has emerged as one of the most productive players in junior hockey this season, recording 13 goals and 19 assists for 32 points in just 25 games. That production places him on pace for roughly 90 points over 62 games.
Another compelling candidate is He, whose breakout campaign has become one of the most notable stories in junior hockey this year. The Chinese forward has been electric offensively, posting 36 goals and 36 assists for 72 points in 56 games while showcasing a dynamic scoring touch and strong playmaking ability.
Both Walton and He are building impressive resumes that could push them onto more prospect radars moving forward. While the Jets’ system may lack the top-heavy collection of elite prospects found in organizations that have recently drafted near the top of the NHL Draft, it remains a pipeline filled with promising talent.
Winnipeg’s sustained success at the NHL level has naturally limited its opportunities to select near the top of the draft in recent years. As a result, the organization’s prospect pool leans more on depth and development rather than headline-grabbing blue-chip names.
Even so, the performances of players like Walton and He suggest the Jets may have more emerging talent than some rankings currently recognize. If their upward trajectories continue, it may only be a matter of time before Winnipeg prospects begin appearing on lists like Button’s in the future.
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LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 12: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket during the game against the Chicago Bulls on March 12, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. 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 Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
During LA’s current homestand, they’ve faced some of the toughest competition in the league. They responded impressively, earning results over the Knicksand Wolves. Even more surprising is that they won these games while LeBron James was out.
LA winning and Austin Reaves playing better in James’ absence led people to speculate that this team is better when James is unavailable.
While narratives like that can be exhausting to hear when the main takeaway should’ve been that the Lakers are playing well, everyone wanted to see what they would look like upon LeBron’s return. On Thursday, the answer came as James joined LA in their contest against the Bulls.
The result was the Lakers winning dominantly. LeBron was part of a starting lineup that scored 137 points, the most by a starting unit in a regular season game since the 1970-71 season.
After the game, Redick talked about LeBron’s willingness to take on whatever role benefits the team.
“LeBron and I, we talked, we had a great conversation over the last couple days,” Redick said. “I think again, he wants to do everything possible to help this team win. He understands the importance of making sure Luka and AR can be at their best. That’s incredible of him. It speaks a lot to just how much he cares about this team and his teammates and how much he wants to win.”
Throughout his career, LeBron has always been a team-based player. On the floor, he makes the right play even if it means he doesn’t take the last shot. So, of course, he’s willing to take a backseat to Luka Dončić and even Reaves if it means the team’s play is more optimized by him doing so. After the win over the Bulls, LeBron talked about how he did it against them.
“I’m able to adapt to whatever needs from the team,” LeBron said. “With Jaxson Hayes and Maxi Kleber being out, two of our really good screen setters, Jaxson being one of our best rollers, that’s a void that I could put myself in to help the team while Jaxson and Maxi are out. Just try to do that.
“Allowing AR and Luka to continue on the things that they’ve been doing. Obviously, ball handling, scoring, pick-and-roll play. Trying to help on the glass. I mean, I’m always past the ball, so I’m not worried about that. Also trying to be a little more active.”
The idea that the Lakers are actually better without LeBron was always ridiculous. This season, LeBron is still an All-Star and averaging 21.4 points, 5.7 rebounds and seven assists per game. At worst, he’s the third best Laker and no team improves when a player of that level is out.
The main thing to figure out is how to make three players who are best with the ball in their hands work well together as a unit. Against the Bulls, we saw signs of what that can look like.
LeBron had seven assists, did more offensive work inside the post and shot less than Dončić or Reaves.
While Chicago is one of the weaker teams in the NBA, the process the Lakers took toward success with their big three can be replicated against many teams.
Overall, there is still work for the Lakers to do, but with LeBron embracing any role that’s needed, they should be able to figure out how to optimize their roster.
And if they do that, they’ll enter the playoffs as a Western Conference team with homecourt advantage in the opening round. All things considered, that’s a great place to be in.
Mar 3, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Jacob Misiorowski (32) throws against Great Britain in the first inning at the American Family Fields. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images | Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Jacob Misiorowski is on the mound today as the Milwaukee Brewers take on a split-squad Colorado Rockies lineup this afternoon. Zach Agnos will start for the Rockies.
It’ll be just Misiorowski’s second outing in the Cactus League, following his March 8 outing against the Mariners in which he allowed one run on two hits and a walk while striking out six in 3 1/3 innings. Miz threw 59 pitches in that one, so expect to see an uptick there. With news that Quinn Priester will start the season on the injured list and questions about how ready Brandon Woodruff will be, Misiorowski could end up as the team’s de facto ace when the season starts.
It’s a fun day beyond Misiorowski for those interested in the Brewers’ pitching staff. Brandon Sproat will follow Miz, and while is spring has been rougher than Miz’s—he’s allowed three runs in 4 1/3 innings across two outings—he remains an intriguing possibility for the early season pitching staff. After Sproat, we should also see Grant Anderson and Jared Koenig.
In the lineup, Joey Ortiz is back after Mexico was eliminated from the World Baseball Classic on Wednesday; it’ll be his first action with the Brewers since February 28. The rest of the lineup includes Sal Frelick, Christian Yelich, Jake Bauers, Gary Sánchez, Brandon Lockridge, David Hamilton, Blake Perkins, and Jett Williams, who was back in action on Thursday after a couple weeks off with a mild quad injury. He walked and hit a double on Thursday, raising his spring OPS to 1.214.
Today’s first pitch is at 3:10 p.m., and while there’s no TV, you can catch the game on ESPN Radio in Milwaukee.
