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Series Preview and Friday Game Thread vs. THEM

WASHINGTON DC - August 29TH: Franzia, Chile, 5-liter box: Like Bazooka Joe chawed down on a bid wad of bubble gum and used it to filter storm water runoff shot on August 29th, 2017 in Washington DC. (Photo by Goran Kosanovic for The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Friday at 7pm CT on ESPNU, Saturday at 1pm CT on SEC Network, and Sunday at 11am CT on ESPN2.

This might be the first time in 20 years that neither us, nor the Franzia Funnelers to the East are ranked. Gross. Clearly, ESPN didn’t think this would happen to both of us, as they put all three games on actual cable networks, and not just the app/SECN+.

The Knoxville Buttchuggers (NR)

‘26 Record: 18-7 (3-3 SEC). In OOC play, The Chuggers opened with a series sweep over Nicholls before the wheels came off and they lost 2 of 3 to Kent State. They also lost to UCLA, but just as with Clanga, losing to the #1 team is nothing to hang your head about. In that same mini-tournament, they beat Arizona State and Virginia Tech. They also took 2 of 3 from the Wright State Freds to close out OOC play as a decidedly middle of the pack SEC team.

In conference play thus far, they dropped 2 of 3 from Ugga in Athens, and then took 2 of 3 from Missourah (spits).

In short, they’re not very good. Seeing as we are also currently not very good, and we’re at home, there’s at least a chance we can take this series.

That’s about as much enthusiasm as I can whip up right now, as I’m still reeling from the news that the cavalry is never coming for our pitching staff this season:

Player to Watch: Honestly, not as many as we were accustomed to in the Tony “The Calf” Vitello era of Chuggers baseball. I’ll go with the very old corpse and horseless motor-carriage tycoon #9 Jr. 3B Henry “Detroit Zombie” Ford (.344/.400/.646 with 5 2B, 8 HR, and 25 RBI).  They’re not mashing like they used to, so you might want to pitch around the Detroit Zombie.

Anchor of Gold Tiger Beat Hottest Pitcher: #9 Fr. LHP Cam “Apple Cheeks” Appenzeller (3-0; 1.77 ERA; 0.79 WHIP). He’s a freshman reliever who’s thrown 20 & 1/3 IP, and, well, he’s not exactly giving up many hits or walks.

Andrew VU ‘04 2026 All-Name Team Nominee: Not all that many options here, either, though they do have one classic “right out of central casting” style baseball name:#27 RS So. C Stone Lawless. That’s the type of name that comes with a free bag of Big League Chew.

On the Mound

Friday @ 7:00pm on ESPNU

Vanderbilt #39 Jr. RHP Connor “The Spice” Fennell (2-1; 5.74 ERA; 12.35 K/9)
vs. THEM #21 So. RHP Tegan “And Sara” Kuhns (1-2; 4.35 ERA; 11.61 K/9)

The Lineup

See you in the comments.

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AJ Dybantsa NBA mock draft projection: Where BYU star is expected to land

The 2026 men's NCAA Tournament is down to its Sweet 16 and we'll have a Final Four by Sunday evening. For half of the college stars taking the court this weekend, it's one final opportuniy to impress NBA teams with their play at full game speed when the lights are brightest as this year's draft class comes into focus.

The 2026 NBA draft is expected to take place in late June. In USA TODAY's latest mock draft, BYU's AJ Dybantsa  is expected to go in the first round. Here's how USA TODAY currently projects the forward's draft night will play out.

Our draft order is based on ESPN's projected records and factors in trades, including swaps and protections.

AJ Dybantsa 2026 NBA Draft prediction: Pick No. 2 overall, Brooklyn Nets

Kalbrosky's Analysis:

The Nets have the worst offense in the NBA and could instantly inject life into their offense by selecting AJ Dybantsa, who would likely go No. 1 overall depending on which team gets the pick. He emphasized that point during his one game for BYU in March Madness, putting up 35 points and 10 rebounds. The Big 12 Rookie of the Year led the nation in unassisted points scored (680) by a wide margin this season, per CBB Analytics. The emerging star also had 40 points against Kansas State in the Big 12 Tournament on March 10 and averaged 28.8 points per game over his final 17 appearances.

See USA TODAY's full mock draft here

AJ Dybantsa player profile

(all stats as of March 15)

  • Position: Forward
  • Current Team: BYU
  • 25.3 points per game
  • 6.7 rebounds per game
  • 3.8 assists per game
  • 51.3% field goal percentage
  • 34.0% three-point field goal percentage

Brooklyn Nets 2026 projected draft picks

  • No. 4, No. 34 and No. 44 (via LAC)

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: AJ Dybantsa NBA mock draft projection: Where BYU star is expected to land

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Patrick Ngongba II NBA mock draft projection: Where Duke star is expected to land

The 2026 men's NCAA Tournament is down to its Sweet 16 and we'll have a Final Four by Sunday evening. For half of the college stars taking the court this weekend, it's one final opportuniy to impress NBA teams with their play at full game speed when the lights are brightest as this year's draft class comes into focus.

The 2026 NBA draft is expected to take place in late June. In USA TODAY's latest mock draft, Duke's Patrick Ngongba II  is expected to go in the first round. Here's how USA TODAY currently projects the center's draft night will play out.

Our draft order is based on ESPN's projected records and factors in trades, including swaps and protections.

Patrick Ngongba II 2026 NBA Draft prediction: Pick No. 22 overall, Atlanta Hawks

Kalbrosky's Analysis:

Many teams could use a big man like Patrick Ngongba II, who is an above-average passer for his position. His assist rate is the highest among underclassmen listed at 6-foot-11 or taller, per Bart Torvik, and he is at the top of his game when passing to a driving perimeter player. Ngongba, who has helped Duke earn a spot in the Sweet 16, is a big-bodied prospect who can carve out space as one of the more prolific cutters in college basketball. He is on an encouraging development track, displaying legitimate year-over-year improvement from his freshman to sophomore campaign.

See USA TODAY's full mock draft here

Patrick Ngongba II player profile

(all stats as of March 15)

  • Position: Center
  • Current Team: Duke
  • 10.7 points per game
  • 6 rebounds per game
  • 1.9 assists per game
  • 60.2% field goal percentage
  • 27.6% three-point field goal percentage

Atlanta Hawks 2026 projected draft picks

  • No. 7 (via NOP), No. 22 (via CLE) and No. 57 (via BOS)

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Patrick Ngongba II NBA mock draft projection: Where Duke star is expected to land

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Atlanta Braves vs. Kansas City Royals Game Thread: March 27 (Opening Day)

Mar 27, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Bunting hangs on the wall before a game between the Atlanta Braves and Kansas City Royals on opening day at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images | Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Somehow, I’m not only doing the game coverage for Opening Day, but also for the second game of this series.

There was a time where I used to be in game threads a lot. Those times are over, for many reasons. I’ll pop in here and there. But, just a reminder that problems (and you know what I mean) are resolved by flagging posts. If you don’t flag, nothing can happen. Be the change you want to see in the game thread.

Also, about the body of the game thread post — what do people actually want to see in here? I never have any idea. The Statcast game preview actually makes far more sense for the lineups post, but that leaves this one barren. If you have inspired ideas, tell me — but not here, because I probably won’t see it here.

Anyway, the Braves and Royals have an Opening Day duel set, with two very good lefties in Cole Ragans and Chris Sale set to battle. For more info, refer to the preview and lineups and such. I just hope both teams have fun or whatever.

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Will Joshua Jefferson play for Iowa State tonight? Cyclones star out vs Tennessee

CHICAGO — In the final injury report ahead of the Sweet 16 matchup from the United Center on Friday, March 27, the No. 2-seeded Cyclones listed Jefferson as "questionable" against No. 6-seed Tennessee. The game is set for a 10:10 p.m. ET tipoff.

REQUIRED READING: March Madness games today: Analyzing Friday's Sweet 16 men's NCAA Tournament matchups

Jefferson went down in the opening minutes of the first round with an ankle injury and has been sidelined since, including Iowa State's second-round victory over Kentucky.

The senior is second on the Cyclones with his 16.4 points per game and led the team with 7.4 rebounds per game. His return would be crucial to help Iowa State reach the Elite Eight for the first time since the 2000 NCAA Tournament.

Here's the latest on Jefferson:

Will Joshua Jefferson play vs Tennessee? Iowa State guard status for March Madness Sweet 16 game

According to ESPN's Pete Thamel, Jefferson is out for Iowa State's Sweet 16 matchup against Tennessee.

Iowa State coach T.J. Otzelberger told reporters on Thursday, March 26 that Jefferson would be a game-time decision for Friday, March 27's Sweet 16 game vs. Tennessee.

Otzelberger added that the final decision would come from Jefferson, closer to tipoff time. He was listed as "questionable" on the injury report at 6:30 p.m. ET.

"Yeah, there's nothing new at this point," Otzelberger said. "We're going to give him every opportunity up until the game to do everything he can. He's a fierce competitor. Our medical staff has been amazing, and he's continued to work diligently.

"But at this point, it would be premature to make any type of determination until we get closer to tip."

Did Joshua Jefferson practice ahead of Friday's Sweet 16 game vs Tennessee?

Jefferson was present for the 15-minutes the media could observe practice on Thursday, March 26. While he opened the period, taking shots with teammates, he moved to midcourt and was seen dribbling and talking to coaches for most of that session.

Jefferson was wearing pink high-top shoes with long socks, but had shed the boot he had been observed in previously.

What is Joshua Jefferson's injury?

Jefferson is dealing with an ankle injury he suffered against Middle Tennessee State on Friday, March 20.

He was seen on crutches for the remainder of the game and then ruled out for Iowa State's second-round win over Kentucky and was seen riding a scooter.

Here's a look at his injury:

Joshua Jefferson stats

Here's a look at Jefferson's season stats:

  • Points: 16.4
  • Rebounds: 7.4
  • Assists: 4.8
  • Blocks: 0.8
  • Steals: 1.6
  • Shooting: 47.1%
  • 3-Point Shooting: 34.5%

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Joshua Jefferson injury update: Will Iowa State star play in Sweet 16?

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Raptors and Pelicans rematch in Toronto

Mar 11, 2026; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray (5) dribbles against Toronto Raptors guard Jamal Shead (23) during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images | Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

This is a revenge game for the Toronto Raptors. Sort of. 

Some have said that the Raps’ last loss to the Pelicans and the brutal staredown Jamal Shead suffered at the hands of Dejounte Murray were the catalyst to the Raptors getting their act back together and winning three games in a row. This game is a rematch to see if, indeed, the Raptors took any lessons about team cohesion and toughness to heart.

Both the Raptors and Pelicans find themselves in ironically similar circumstances finishing out the regular season. The Raps’ road trip has finally come to an end with a loss at the hands of the Los Angeles Clippers, while Nola is walking off a loss to the Pistons. Both teams have been middling of late, going .500 in their last 10 games. While the Pelicans have been mathematically eliminated, they found themselves at the 11th seed, just outside of the postseason, while the Raptors are fighting to hold on to their playoff berth, jostling with the rest of the East for the 6th seed. More similarities abound, with the Raptor and Pelicans playing without their starting point guards, as Immanuel Quickley and Dejounte Murray are both missing tonight’s game due to injuries.

The Raptors are no strangers to thrashing bottom of the conference opponents, with their most recent handiwork being the dismantling of the Utah Jazz on Monday. It’s been a matter of public record that the Raptors kill teams worse than them and fumble games against the best in the league, and this looks to be no different of a situation. The loss of Quickley’s shooting and facilitating is of course a blow to Toronto, but the recent heroics of Ja’Kobe Walter make this the best time to be dealing with that deficiency. Walter has been fantastic from long range of late, and his shooting throughout March has been a standout part of a Raptors team that has left much to be desired. Jamal Shead has been a more than solid backup ball handler, and has great potential to show out tonight. The Pelicans are playing without a number of starters, their guard depth especially weak tonight, suggesting the need of a scoring explosion from Zion Williamson to keep the Pels in the game. Scottie Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles should match up well with the bowling-ball forward, who was held to only 19 points during their last matchup.

With Murray out, however, some of the narrative of this game has had the wind taken out of it. Shead, likely to start, won’t get a chance to avenge his staredown on the court. The best thing the Raptors can do to show the Pelicans that they mean business is to play tough defense, avoid giving up early leads, and preventing either of Jeremiah Fears or Derik Queen from getting hot, as they’ve been able to do throughout the season. Is a rose by any other name just as sweet? Maybe it is, when the rose is a potential win this late in the season. 

Game Information and Details

Game Time: 8:30 EDT

Watch On: SportsNet

Injury Report

Raptors: Immanuel Quickley (Out – right foot plantar fasciitis)

Pelicans: Trey Murphy III (Out – ankle), Dejounte Murray (Out – achilles), Bryce McGowens (Out – toe)

Projected Lineups

Raptors: Jamal Shead, Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, RJ Barrett, Jakob Poeltl

Pelicans: Zion Williamson, Saddiq Bey, Herb Jones, Jeremiah Fears, Jordan Poole

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Cameron Boozer NBA mock draft projection: Where Duke star is expected to land

The 2026 men's NCAA Tournament is down to its Sweet 16 and we'll have a Final Four by Sunday evening. For half of the college stars taking the court this weekend, it's one final opportuniy to impress NBA teams with their play at full game speed when the lights are brightest as this year's draft class comes into focus.

The 2026 NBA draft is expected to take place in late June. In USA TODAY's latest mock draft, Duke's Cameron Boozer  is expected to go in the first round. Here's how USA TODAY currently projects the forward's draft night will play out.

Our draft order is based on ESPN's projected records and factors in trades, including swaps and protections.

Cameron Boozer 2026 NBA Draft prediction: Pick No. 1 overall, Indiana Pacers

Kalbrosky's Analysis:

Duke freshman Cameron Boozer was one of the best players in college basketball during his first NCAA season and now makes his USA TODAY mock draft pole position debut. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, rival teams believe Boozer would be the "preferred selection" for the Pacers at No. 1 overall because of his "potential fit" alongside Pascal Siakam and Ivica Zubac. The ACC Player of the Year isnt a human highlight reel but he offers consistency and a diverse, impactful skill set. More importantly, he can bring a culture of winning after multiple championships in high school and an elite Duke team that has made it to the Sweet 16.

See USA TODAY's full mock draft here

Cameron Boozer player profile

(all stats as of March 15)

  • Position: Forward
  • Current Team: Duke
  • 22.5 points per game
  • 10.2 rebounds per game
  • 4.2 assists per game
  • 56.5% field goal percentage
  • 40.9% three-point field goal percentage

Indiana Pacers 2026 projected draft picks

  • No. 1

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cameron Boozer NBA mock draft projection: Where Duke star is expected to land

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Jarrett Allen probable to return against the Miami Heat

CLEVELAND, OH - MARCH 3: Jarrett Allen #31 of the Cleveland Cavaliers run on to the court before the game against the Detroit Pistons on March 3, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen is expected to make his return to the starting lineup, per head coach Kenny Atkinson in his pre-game press conference.

It’ll be the first time Allen has appeared in a game since early in the month, when he left their March 3rd game against the Detroit Pistons with what was initially described as a “knocked knee”. Turns out it was a little more serious than that.

The team expects Allen to play with a minutes restriction “in the mid-20s”, per Atkinson. The Cavs have missed Allen on both ends of the floor, with his paint protection and ability to finish efficiently at the rim on offense. His absence has made the Cavs more of a three-point shooting team, which does not play as well in the head coach’s mind.

“His rim presence offensively, I think sometimes without him, we become too perimeter oriented,” Atkinson said prior to the team’s game against the Miami Heat. “I hope we get some reps with this little runway to run with that big lineup, because that’s our best lineup, and we haven’t seen a lot of the combinations that can go around that,” Atkinson continued. “So at least we’ll get some games under our belt before the playoffs start.”

The Cavs have been tinkering with different lineups all season, but with now single-digit regular season games remaining, it’ll be important to get some consistency going. That goes for the defensive side of the ball as well.

“Opposing teams’ rim attempts go down when he’s in the game, he’s like a seven-foot goalie — he just deters, guys don’t want to challenge him,” Atkinson said when asked about Allen’s impact on what he himself has described as a subpar defense of late.

“It starts at the rim with him on both ends, I keep saying it, he’s been the best rim protector in the league post All-Star.”

The Cavs had another poor showing on the defensive end in their last game out, also against the Heat. Allen’s return, even if for 23 minutes, will have an impact on both ends of the floor. And with the playoffs approaching, the team needs the continuity in the rotation for the final stretch of the regular season.

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Joe Musgrove has begun throwing again

San Diego Padres starter Joe Musgrove was in the bullpen during team introductions on Opening Day. Along with the rest of the starting pitchers, Musgrove was there to support Nick Pivetta before his start. He had already done his work for the day, revealing in pre-game interviews that he has begun playing catch.

Musgrove started an exhibition game against the Great Britain World Baseball Classic team on March 4 and hasn’t appeared in a game since. He had a bullpen on March 8 and hadn’t thrown since then until this week. He revealed that an MRI was done on his repaired right elbow about two weeks ago and showed no new issues.

In his usual effort to be honest and forthcoming, Musgrove was unwilling to put any timeline on his progression to returning to pitching. He knew that what he was feeling during spring work wasn’t what he wanted his arm to feel like but kept hoping that things would improve and he would “breakthrough.” That never happened and it was decided to put his throwing program on pause, giving his arm a chance to rest and recover from the inflammation that seemed apparent.

President of baseball operations A.J. Preller seemed optimistic when speaking about Musgrove’s status:

“It’s not like he’s been down for six to eight weeks, so hopefully he can get going here,” he said Thursday in his media availability. “But we’re not going to really know until he gets through days like today, where he starts to play catch and he puts some volume on what he’s doing and he starts to build up innings and we’re seeing the bounce-back.” – Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union Tribune.

Musgrove also spoke in the clubhouse during Thursday’s media time.

He will have to progress from playing catch to bullpen sessions and then to live BP and a minor league or sim game appearance before considering building up to be able to start a Padres game. Common sense would lead one to think at least a May/June comeback if all goes well.

He emphasized that this was an expected development in his progress back from surgery but he had hoped it wouldn’t happen. His 15-day IL stint was back-dated to March 22. By not putting him on the 60-day IL it seems they are hopeful for a quicker bounce-back.

Yu Darvish goes on the Restricted List

Preller also discussed the status of Yu Darvish on Thursday. The Padres placed Darvish on the Restricted List on Wednesday. . He will not collect any salary for the 2026 season and will have limited contact with the team during this season. His desire is to rehab on his own and at his own pace but in consultation with Padres medical staff. He will have no commitment to being at Petco, travel with the team or be around the team before or after games. He wishes to break from the routine of the set rehab and spend more time with his family and handling his recovery himself.

Darvish has not announced his retirement and Preller explained that there will be a reassessment of his status as he gets further down the road in his rehab. He also stated that Darvish is on track with is rehab so far. The team has known for a long time that the money owed to Darvish this season would not be paid to him, that he intended to do what was best for the organization financially. This is not unprecedented as Darvish also went on the Restricted List in 2024 while dealing with personal issues that required him to leave the team for an extended period.

Preller explained this took some time because of the legal issues and the amount of people involved in the decision-making but the process began a long time ago when Darvish decided to pull away from baseball after his surgery last year.

The Padres also have starter Griffin Canning rehabbing from Achilles surgery and there has been no timeline announced for his return. Relievers Yuki Matsui and Jason Adam also began the season on the IL and both are retroactive to March 22.

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Hawks at Celtics: start time, TV, streaming, radio, game thread

Mar 23, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (7) reacts after making a three point basket against the Memphis Grizzlies during the first half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images | Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Hawks (41-32) look to take down Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics (48-24).

Jock Landle (right shoulder impingement) has been ruled out for this game.

Starting lineup:

  • G CJ McCollum
  • G Nickeil Alexander-Walker
  • F Dyson Daniels
  • F Jalen Johnson
  • C Onyeka Okongwu

Please join in the comments below as you follow along.

Where, When, and How to Watch and Listen

Location: TD Garden, Boston, MA

Start Time: 7:30 PM EDT

TV: FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (FDSNSE)

Radio: Sports Radio 92.9 the Game (WZGC-FM)

Streaming: FanDuel Sports Network app, Fubo (out of market), NBA League Pass (out of market), Youtube TV (NBA League Pass out of market)

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Caleb Foster injury update: Duke guard plays in Sweet 16 win over St. John's

Duke starting guard Caleb Foster returned from injury when the top-seeded Blue Devils beat No. 5 St. John's, 80-75 on Friday, March 27 in the Sweet 16 of the Men's NCAA Tournament.

Foster had missed the entire ACC tournament – won by the Blue Devils – and first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament after suffering a foot fracture in the team's regular-season finale against North Carolina on March 7. He was not in the starting lineup against the Red Storm, but was cleared to play.

REQUIRED READING: March Madness games today: Analyzing Friday's Sweet 16 men's NCAA Tournament matchups

He finished Friday's game with 11 points (all in the second half) in 19 minutes, including some key late buckets to ice the game.

He's been seen at postseason games with his foot in a boot and riding on a one-legged scooter. Foster did participate in the Duke's shoot-around Thursday, March 26 during the session that was open to media.

There was optimism Foster could return at some point in the postseason.

"He had a good day of practice (Wednesday), doing a little bit," Duke coach Jon Scheyer said to media on March 26. "Again, it's not like there's a lot of practice time, but we have to make sure he's in position before the game, more of a game-time decision.

"He's going to give it everything he has to go ..."

The 6-foot-5 junior has started 30 of 31 games and is averaging 8.5 points per game and leads all regulars shooting 40.2% from the 3-point line.

Cayden Boozer has stepped into Foster's position in the starting lineup for the past five games. The freshman has averaged 13.8 points in those games. And more impressively, he has totaled 44 points, 14 assists and just four turnovers as Duke defeated Virginia in the ACC tournament title game and Siena and TCU in the NCAA Tournament.

Duke will have center Patrick Ngongba II available, as well. The sophomore was also injured in the North Carolina season-finale and returned for the team's second-round game against TCU. He scored 4 points and had 4 rebounds in 13 minutes.

Is Caleb Foster playing today?

Foster will return from injury for the first time since March 8 after fracturing his foot in the regular season finale against North Carolina, according to the NCAA's player availability report.

It'll be a huge boost for the Blue Devils, getting back an experienced guard. True freshman Cayden Boozer has played well in Foster's absence, though, and may have earned more minutes in the meantime.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Caleb Foster injury update: Duke guard off injury report vs St. John's

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Five-time Gold Glover Jason Heyward officially retires after 16 MLB seasons

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Jason Heyward #22 of the San Diego Padres hits a single against the Toronto Blue Jays during the fifth inning in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on May 20, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (, Image 2 shows Jason Heyward #22 of the Atlanta Braves makes a catch against the Baltimore Orioles at Turner Field on June 16, 2012 in Atlanta, Georgia, Image 3 shows Chicago Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward (22) holds up the commissioners trophy during the Chicago Cubs World Series victory rally on November 4, 2016, at Grant Park in Chicago, IL. (
Jason Heyward

Jason Heyward accomplished a lot in his career: five gold gloves, an All-Star appearance and a memorable World Series title.

But after 16 years in the big leagues, the outfielder is calling it a career.

The 36-year-old told “MLB Central” on the league’s TV network on Friday that he is officially retiring from the game, saying he’s looking forward to being a “mentor” to up-and-coming players of the next generation.

Jason Heyward of the San Diego Padres hits a single against the Toronto Blue Jays during the fifth inning in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on May 20, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Getty Images

“I look forward to being a potential mentor to any of the young players coming up, anybody that is in the game right now. I feel like the game’s in good hands in that sense, and I look forward to being a fan and seeing what other ways I can give back,” Heyward told ”Central.”

“Thank you to everybody that’s been there to support: the fans, teammates, coaches, staff, ownership groups, everyone and so on. Thank you for allowing me to live out my dream.”

Heyward, who was born in New Jersey but grew up in Georgia, was drafted by his hometown Braves in the first round of the 2007 draft and made his MLB debut in 2010. In his first big league at-bat, Heyward crushed a three-run home run at Atlanta’s Turner Field.

It proved to be the catalyst in a memorable rookie campaign that saw him get named to the National League All-Star team and finish second in the Rookie of the Year voting to Giants catcher Buster Posey.

Jason Heyward of the Atlanta Braves makes a catch against the Baltimore Orioles at Turner Field on June 16, 2012 in Atlanta, Georgia. Getty Images

He played four more years in Atlanta and won his first two Gold Gloves before getting traded to the Cardinals ahead of the 2015 season. He produced a .797 OPS and another Gold Glove in St. Louis that season, which earned him an eight-year, $184 million contract with the Cubs.

The contract mostly didn’t pan out, as he hit .245/.323/.377 over seven seasons, but he did win two more awards for his defensive prowess.

However, memorably, during Game 7 of the 2016 World Series, Heyward gave a speech to his Cubs teammates during a rain delay after Chicago had blown a lead late to Cleveland.

Chicago Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward (22) holds up the commissioners trophy during the Chicago Cubs World Series victory rally on November 4, 2016, at Grant Park in Chicago, IL. Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Cubs rallied in the 10th inning to win their first World Series in 108 years.

“I told them I love them,” Heyward told reporters after winning it all. “I told them I’m proud of the way they overcame everything together. I told them everyone has to look in the mirror, and know everyone contributed to this season and to where we are at this point.

“I said, ‘I don’t know how it’s going to happen, how we’re going to do it, but let’s go out and try to get a W.'”

Heyward later had stints with the Dodgers and Astros before finishing his career with the Padres last season. He finishes with 186 home runs, 730 RBIs and a .744 OPS.

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Colorado Rockies game no. 1 thread: Kyle Freeland vs. Sandy Alcantara

Colorado Rockies v Milwaukee Brewers

It has been a busy six months since the 2025 season ended at Coors Field with a loss to the Giants, capping off the most torturous season in franchise history. 

The Rockies finished 2025 on a six-game losing streak enroute to 119 total losses on the season — a number that still doesn’t quite feel real. 

A lot can change over the winter. 

This offseason brought sweeping changes. Paul DePodesta and Josh Byrnes were brought in to reshape the front office, signaling a long-overdue investment in analytics, player development, and infrastructure. A new coaching staff followed, reinforcing what the Rockies hope is a philosophical reset from top to bottom. 

PECOTA  projects the Rockies for around 60 wins in 2026. That’s not contention, but a record of 60-102 would represent a 17-win improvement. No one is confusing this team with a miracle turnaround like the 2024 Royals, but for the first time in a long time, there’s at least a sense of direction. 

The roster looks very different. 

Over half the team has changed since last Opening Day. Kyle Karros will make his Opening Day debut, while TJ Rumfield is set for his Major League debut tonight. Overall, the roster is young — especially on the position player side, with only Brett Sullivan north of 30. The rotation is more experienced but features three new faces aiming to provide stability. 

This may be the most intriguing Opening Day in franchise history — not because of expectations, but because of what could be taking shape. And it all starts tonight at loanDepot Park in Miami.

On the mound for Colorado is veteran lefty Kyle Freeland, making his franchise-record fifth Opening Day start (2019, 2022, 2024, 2025, 2026). A Colorado native, Freeland enters his 10th season coming off a 5–17, 4.98 ERA campaign across 31 starts. He’s at his best working with tempo and generating weak contact, mixing a fastball, curveball, cutter, and sweeper to keep hitters off balance. 

Opposing him is former Cy Young Award winner  Sandy Alcantara for Miami. After returning from Tommy John surgery in 2025, the right-hander posted a 5.36 ERA over 31 starts but looked more like himself down the stretch, going 7–3 with a 3.33 ERA in his final 13 outings. He brings a balanced five-pitch mix anchored by an elite fastball. 

One thing to watch early: the offense. 

The Rockies quietly put together a strong spring, leading MLB with an .858 OPS andscoring 202 runs in 31 games. Just as encouraging, they cut down on strikeouts, finishing the spring with the 13th fewest. 

The pitching lagged behind — posting the second-highest team ERA andallowing 209 runs — but the Rockies still finished the spring with a 15-15 record. For a team coming off three consecutive 100-loss seasons, that’s meaningful progress. 

The question now: do those offensive gains carry over, and can the pitching catch up? 

Now for the details… 

Game Time: 5:10 pm MDT 

How to watch: Rockies.TV

How to listen: Rockies – KOA 850 AM/94.1 FM

Follow Live: MLB Gameday 

Lineups –  

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Game #1, Athletics vs. Blue Jays Game Thread

Luis Severino gets the Opening Day nod for the Athletics against the reigning American League champion Toronto Blue Jays | Dennis Lee-Imagn Images

The day we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived. A’s Opening Day baseball is hours, minutes or just seconds away. Granted, it’s not “our” opening day at “our’ our ballpark, we’ll have to wait another week for that celebration, but it is the start of the most promising season in recent memory.

There’s a buzz around this team that I haven’t sensed in a while, and it will all get started today as the reigning American League champs host our A’s for the weekend! Let’s hope that watching the Blue Jays hoist the American League Pennant will serve as even more motivation for this young and uber-talented team to take their play to the next level.

Taking the mound for the A’s today will be Luis Severino. The 32-year-old righty hopes to improve upon a rough first season in the Kelly-green and gold where he went 8-11 with a 4.45 ERA in 162 innings. He ended last season with a definite upswing and pitched well in the World Baseball Classic (WBC) this spring, so there is reason for optimism.

Severino will go up against 35-year-old righty Kevin Gausman. He finished the year with a 10-11 record over thirty-two starts. He logged a 3.99 ERA with 189 strikeouts for the Jays.

Gausman will face off against this lineup for Mark Kotsay’s A’s tonight at the Rogers Center in Toronto:

Severino will go up against this lineup for the Jays today:

Follow the Game:
Watch:
Athletics – NBCSCA
National – MLBN

Listen:
Athletics – Talk 650 KSTE, A’s Cast

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Joe Mazzulla shares Jaylen Brown injury update ahead of Celtics game vs Hawks

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MARCH 25: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics reacts to a foul called against him during the second half of the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at TD Garden on March 25, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics defeat the Thunder 119-109. 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

BOSTON — Jaylen Brown will miss Friday’s game between the Celtics and the Atlanta Hawks with left Achilles tendonitis. How severe — or concerning — that injury is remains to be seen, but Brown will miss time due to an Achilles injury for the first time this season.

He was previously listed on the injury report as questionable to play with left calf tightness. Both the exact injury and his official status were updated on Friday.

Joe Mazzulla declined to give much information about Brown’s status in his pregame press conference before Celtics-Hawks, but did offer that Brown was day-to-day.

When asked if the Achilles injury could keep Brown out of multiple games, Mazzulla simply repeated: “He’s day-to-day.”

When asked if it’s an injury Brown suffered in Wednesday’s game, or if it’s something he was dealing with previously, Mazzulla said: “‘He’s just a little banged up.”

Outside of Brown, the Celtics should be mostly available ahead of Friday’s match-up. Derrick White (right knee contusion) and Neemias Queta (right thumb sprain) are both available after previously being listed as questionable. At the same time, Nikola Vucevic remains out as he continues to recover from a right ring finger fracture he suffered on March 6th.

This will be Jayson Tatum’s first game back without his co-star. He’s averaging 19.1 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game this season.

The Hawks are also mostly healthy, except for Jock Landale, who is out with a right shoulder impingement.

Celtics-Hawks tips off at 7:30pm on Friday night.