PORT ST. LUCIE, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 13: Mark Vientos #27 of the New York Mets looks on during spring training workouts at Clover Park on February 13, 2026 in Port St. Lucie, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Mets need to know who Mark Vientos is, and 2026 is likely the last opportunity they will have to find out.
Is he the 27 home run impact bat who lit up the 2024 playoffs? Or is he the guy who in ten more plate appearances in 2025 hit ten fewer home runs and saw every offensive rate stat drop precipitously?
If he’s the former, Vientos would be an incredibly useful right-handed designated hitter and sometimes corner infielder who would bolster and deepen the Mets’ lineup. If he’s the latter, he’s at best a part time player and might be a square peg for the club even in that instance.
Vientos was drafted by the Mets in 2017 out of high school and tore up the lower levels of the Mets’ system. As he reached higher levels, Vientos would often start the years cold, but never stopped hitting. This paved the way for call-up in 2022 and 2023, but neither showed much of the prospect that we had raved about year after year.
Never a defensive specialist, this is what our Steve Sypa wrote about him ahead of his MLB call up:
Though initially drafted as a shortstop, Vientos does not have the ability to play up the middle. He was moved to third base in 2018, and at the present is stretched even there. While not unathletic, Vientos is a low-energy guy that lacks explosive quick twitch muscle, resulting in a slow first step and below-average lateral quickness. His average-to-above-average arm and solid instincts allowed him to handle the routine plays fine at third fine initially, but the pace of the game increased as he worked his way up the minor league ladder, and Vientos is a well-below-average defender at third base as a professional at the highest level. He played limited innings in the outfield in 2021 as the Mets explored the best way to give both him and Brett Baty playing time, but the experiment ended and was not resumed in 2022; while there is enough data to make any conclusive, definitive remarks about his ability there, based on how he looked visually along with the fact that he has not played in the outfield at all in 2022, it is safe to conclude that the experiment will not be resumed again. Instead, the Mets actually have shifted Vientos down the defensive spectrum, giving him more play at first base and DH this season than ever before.
Steve was fairly prescient in his write up, as Vientos has struggled mightily in his time in the big leagues. Not only has third base looked downright rough, but the Mets seemingly don’t believe that he’d be much better at first or in a corner outfield spot. His left-handed counterpart, Brett Baty, has proven to be a better defender all over the diamond, and so has more of a roster fit for himself with the Mets.
But that bat! When Vientos is hot, like in late 2024, he’s someone who drives the ball with authority and has impressive natural power. Sure, he strikes out more than you’d like and doesn’t quite walk enough, but those are workable issues if he’s really projecting to hit 30+ home runs over the course of a season.
But we’ve seen more of the cold Vientos than the hot, and there is a limited amount of time that the Mets, or any team, will wait to see if Vientos can consistently produce. If he’s his 2025 self, a slightly below league average hitter with some pop (.233/.289/.413 with an OPS+ of 97), it’ll be hard to justify giving him too much playing time. This is a year where Vientos will likely get some opportunities to show that he can play some first base as well as extended opportunities as a designated hitter. He’s going to get one last shot to show that he can handle big league pitching with any consistency.
If he can do so? The Mets’ lineup gets a right-handed power boost, the Mets have a backup plan if Jorge Polanco can’t make the transition to first, and the fans will get another taste of Swaggy V. That would be a really nice outcome.
If he can’t, and loses at bats to the Mike Tauchmans, the MJ Melendezes, and the Jose Rojases of the world? Then this will likely be his last season as a Met.
International baseball drama, rising Royals stars, and spring training momentum — this episode has it all.
In the latest episode of the Royals Rundown Podcast, hosts Jacob Milham and Jeremy Greco break down the Kansas City Royals’ strong presence in the World Baseball Classic, highlighting standout performances and unforgettable moments from the tournament. From Vinnie Pasquantino’s leadership and celebratory espresso shots to Jac Caglianone’s eye-catching performances, the hosts explore how Royals players are making an impact on the global stage.
The conversation also dives into the evolving dynamics within Team USA, including player camaraderie, competitive tensions, and the high-energy environment surrounding the tournament. Jacob and Jeremy analyze key matchups, tournament rules like pitch limits and scheduling constraints, and offer predictions for upcoming quarterfinal games.
Back on the Royals front, the episode covers recent roster updates, including Michael Wacha’s return, bullpen outlooks, and injury news affecting both major league contributors and emerging prospects. The hosts also discuss the growing culture of international baseball, the significance of WBC collectibles and memorabilia, and how weather and logistics could impact the lead-up to Opening Day.
Whether you’re following the Royals’ players on the global stage or preparing for the upcoming MLB season, this episode provides insightful analysis, entertaining moments, and a passionate discussion of baseball’s international spotlight.
(Original Caption) Frank "Home Run" Baker (left), who was once as bright a star with a bat as Mickey Mantle is today, poses with Mantle at the Yankee Stadium as the old-timers had their inning today. Former stars of the Yankees and the Chicago White Sox donned their uniforms and enjoyed the roar of the crowd once again before the game between the Yankees and the Chisox. The Mantle bat is a special job.
When you see someone dubbed with the nickname “Home Run” and then compare that to their career total of 96 homers, you might think that was an ironic title. Maybe it was a joke like when a big guy gets nicknamed “Tiny.” However for his time Frank “Home Run Baker” was a prolific slugger, leading the league in homers on four occasions. It’s just that his era was directly before and then overlapping a certain Babe Ruth, who proceeded to blow Baker and everyone else’s tallies out of the water.
However, Baker was very rightly a star of his era and was eventually inducted into the Hall of Fame, for his work with the Yankees and the then-Philadelphia Athletics. Today is also his birthday, so let’s look back on the man dubbed “Home Run.”
John Franklin “Home Run” Baker Born: March 13, 1886 (Trappe, MD) Died: June 28, 1963 (Easton, MD) Yankees Tenure: 1916-19, 1921-22
Baker was born in 1886 in a town on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, not far from the Chesapeake Bay. He was born into a farming family, and spent many years of his youth working the farm. Doing all that hard work on the farm helped Baker develop into a muscular young man, who first started to make waves on the baseball field while playing for his high school.
In high school, Baker was a pitcher and an outfielder, and caught some scouts’ eyes. He was signed by a local semipro team, where he was moved to third base, which would become the only defensive position he would ever play in the major leagues.
After a couple seasons playing semipro ball, Baker received a tryout with the then-minor league Baltimore Orioles of the Eastern League in 1907. While a run with Baltimore wasn’t on the card, Baker did sign professionally for 1908, joining the Reading Pretzels of the Tri-State League. Putting up a .299 batting average and a .417 slugging percentage, Baker was noticed by Philadelphia Athletics legendary manager Connie Mack. With Hall of Famer Jimmy Collins nearing the end of his career, Mack was looking for a young third baseman to take his place, and gave Baker a try, purchasing his contract from Reading in September. In eight games at the end of 1908, Baker hit just well enough for Mack to not only keep him around, but to install him as the regular third baseman for the A’s in 1909.
In Philadelphia, Baker would become a star and one of the key cogs in the A’s dynasty of the early years of the World Series. In seven seasons from 1908-14, he put up 40.9 fWAR and 42.2 rWAR, including a 1912 season that was worth 9.1 and 9.3 respectively. He led the league in home runs every year from 1911-14. It’s just that, again, the highest of those totals was 12 as it was the Deadball Era. The A’s won four AL pennants in that time and won the World Series title in 1910, 1911, and 1913. In all three of those victories, Baker OPSed over 1.000 for the series. Had the World Series MVP Award existed then, he would’ve had an especially good argument in ’11, as he hit a couple crucial home runs (the real spark for his amusing-in-hindsight nickname), including one in their clinching Game 6 win that ended up providing the series-winning runs.
After a World Series loss in 1914, Mack began to sell off several of the pieces from the previous championship teams. While he attempted to keep hold of Baker, the slugger was looking for a pay raise, having been one of the heroes of the A’s recent successes. However on the other side of the negotiating table was the notoriously stringy Mack. Both sides were also quite stubborn and stuck to their guns. In the end neither side budged, and Baker ended up sitting out the entire 1915 season. Eventually, AL president Ban Johnson put some pressure on Mack to try and resolve the situation of one of the league’s stars, which ended with Baker being sold to the Yankees ahead of the 1916 season.
In New York, Baker hit the ground running, putting up a 130 wRC+ in 1916, even with having sat out the entire previous season. He continued to be a very steady bat for them over the next several seasons, as the Yankees turned from a cellar dweller in the early 1910s to a contender by the end of the decade.
Tragedy struck in 1920, as during that offseason, Baker’s wife passed away after a scarlet fever outbreak. Devastated, Baker sat out the entire season, which was also Babe Ruth’s first in the Bronx. Towards the end of that year, he eventually began to get the itch again, and eventually rejoined the team for the 1921 season.
However this time, taking an entire season off led to some rust. The now 35-year old Baker was a below average hitter for the first time in his career, although he did help the team to their first ever AL pennant in 1921. Despite his previous postseason heroics, Baker struggled this time around, recording just two hits as they lost to the Giants. He returned to the Yankees the following year, but in more of a bench role. He again helped the Yankees to the World Series, but got just one at-bat in another series loss.
After that season, Baker decided to hang it up, just narrowly missing the Yankees finally getting over the hump in 1923. Still, he had been a major part of the team building up to get in position to win the championship. Over his six seasons in New York, he put up 19.2 fWAR and 20.6 rWAR. Following his playing career, he returned to his native Maryland and spent some time as a minor-league manager, including giving a pro debut to future Hall of Famer Jimmie Foxx and helping connect him with Mack, his old A’s skipper. He was later voted into the Hall himself, by the Veterans Committee in 1955. He eventually passed away in 1963.
It’s somewhat funny that someone got the nickname “Home Run” immediately before there was a huge jump in homers, making his record look paltry. Make no mistake though, for his era, Home Run Baker was absolutely a feared slugger.
See more of the “Yankees Birthday of the Day” series here.
The Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Clippers meet for the second time, but there won't be many familiar faces. Chicago won on Jan. 20 and dealt away players that combined for 78 points in that game. The Clippers traded away 39 points of production.
The makeover served the Clippers well. L.A. is on a hot streak, while Chicago has gone in the other direction.
That trend line should continue, as my Bulls vs. Clippers predictions and NBA picks see the Clips covering.
Bulls vs Clippers prediction
Bulls vs Clippers best bet: Clippers -13.5 (-110)
Trading away or parting with James Harden, Ivica Zubac, and Chris Paul has revived the Los Angeles Clippers' offense. L.A. has improved its record by 16 games since a late-December low point, a record midseason turnaround.
L.A. has covered seven of the last eight, including a 153-point outburst on Wednesday, while bullying lesser teams,winning their last five games favored by double-digits by an average margin of 26.4.
The Chicago Bulls, who traded Ayo Dosunmu, Coby White, Kevin Huerter, and Nikola Vucevic, are 3-3 since snapping an 11-game skid, have covered just two of the last five as double-digit dogs.
Bulls vs Clippers same-game parlay
The Clippers have gone Over in five straight and eight of the last 10. Chicago has the third fastest pace in the league, which plays right into the Clippers' hands.
Kawhi Leonard has been on a heater. He's led the team in scoring in 16 of the last 18 and has averaged over 30 points since Dec. 20. His lowest point total in the last five was 28.
Bulls vs Clippers SGP
Clippers -13.5
Over 234.5 points
Kawhi Leonard Over 29.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: Points Parade!
Bennedict Mathurin has quickly become Los Angeles' second scoring option since arriving from Indiana at the deadline. He's scored 21 or more in four of the last five and has hit 4-of-9 from three over the last two games.
The Bulls will get plenty of possessions in this shootout, and Josh Giddey should reap the benefits as Chicago's top remaining scorer. He's topped 20 in three of the last five and averaged 19.4.
Bulls vs Clippers SGP
Over 234.5 points
Kawhi Leonard Over 29.5 points
Bennedict Mathurin Over 21.5 points
Josh Giddey Over 18.5 points
Bulls vs Clippers odds
Spread: Bulls +11 (-110) | Clippers -11 (-110)
Moneyline: Bulls +415 | Clippers -550
Over/Under: Over 233 (-110) | Under 233 (-110)
Bulls vs Clippers betting trend to know
The Chicago Bulls have hit the Game Total Over in 25 of their last 40 away games. Find more NBA betting trends for Bulls vs. Clippers.
How to watch Bulls vs Clippers
Location
Intuit Dome, Inglewood, CA
Date
Friday, March 13, 2026
Tip-off
10:30 p.m. ET
TV
FDSN So Cal, CHSN
Bulls vs Clippers latest injuries
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Two sides on different recent trajectories meet with Steve Tandy finding cause for optimism despite another wooden spoon looming
Which is the sharper motivator, the avoidance of fresh humiliation or the attainment of new heights? Cardiff could be the place this weekend for any students of psychology more interested in such nuances than anything so obvious as an actual attempt to win the title.
Suffice to say, neither Wales nor Italy can win the Six Nations this weekend, nor exert any influence on its outcome. It is mathematically possible for Wales to knock England into last place for the first time in the extended championship’s history, but students of mathematics needn’t bother. For the record, Wales would need to win with a bonus point and, in concert with France, who play England, cover their current deficit of 100 in points difference.
Nightly out-of-town scoreboard watching has become an infuriating experience for the Senators organization and their fans. While the Senators find themselves in an incredible stretch of hockey, most of the teams they’ve been chasing have been on similar hot streaks.
Stingy defense, timely scoring, and improved goaltending don’t mean as much when your competition isn’t conceding ground. As of this writing on March 12, while the Senators have chipped away double-digit point deficits since the calendar turned to 2026, the catchable teams for the Senators in the Bruins, Red Wings, Canadiens, Penguins, Blue Jackets, and Islanders have a 32-14-14 combined record in their last 10 games, which means making up ground has been a slow process and the runway is starting to run out with 18 games left on the slate.
Atlantic leaders Buffalo and Tampa are virtually uncatchable barring a historic collapse by one of those teams, and even Buffalo’s crushing weight of historical losing won’t be enough for them to miss entirely this time. Montreal in particular has forged an identity as a team that regularly comes back late in games with last-minute heroics.
The Atlantic Division has only seen 9 regulation losses in the last ten games combined between Montreal, Boston, Detroit, and Ottawa. Five of those regulation losses belong to Detroit, which probably makes them the most catchable team for Ottawa considering their two games in hand and head-to-head matchup with the Wings remaining.
So in this bizarre season, you basically have 7 teams who are all on excellent stretches of hockey competing for 5 playoff spots between 3rd in the Atlantic, 2nd/3rd in the Metro, and the two wild card spots. In other words, two very good teams are likely not just going to hit the golf course in mid-April wondering what could have been, but actually compete with and break records set by the greatest teams of all time to miss the dance entirely.
In terms of sheer talent, Ottawa and company can’t compete with the 1969-70 Montreal Canadiens, who missed the playoffs with more than half their roster consisting of future Hall of Famers.
Count ’em, that year’s Habs had 11 future Hall of Famers on the roster, including Yvan Cournoyer, Henri Richard, Jean Beliveau, Serge Savard, and Guy Lapointe. That team missed the playoffs with 92 points (with no loser points) and 38 wins/16 ties in 76 games and a +43 goal differential! That year’s team missed the final spot to the Rangers, who had an identical record but a +57 differential, the tiebreaker used at the time.
It’s worth noting that this was after a recent six-team expansion in which all the “western division” teams were limping along with expansion rosters and cast-offs. In the West Division, the Pittsburgh Penguins made the playoffs in second place with a 26-38-12 record and a -56 goal differential. The Oakland Seals got the last playoff spot in the west with a 22-40-14 record and a -74 goal differential in that division. St. Louis claimed first place with one less win and 5 more regulation losses than Montreal had that year.
I’m sure Montreal fans took solace in the team’s two Cup wins in 1968 and 1969 before that season and six more Cup victories in the 1970s, including four straight from 1976-1979, so don’t feel too bad for them.
So there’s some comfort for anxious fans who aren’t seeing quality hockey translate to a comfortable playoff spot these days. The lopsided nature of the conferences used to be far more pronounced in a 12-team league where half the league was recent expansion franchises. The difference between West and East is huge this year, but it was far worse once upon a time.
Other teams had top-level talent and couldn’t close the deal. The 2012-13 Tampa Bay Lightning and 1948-49 Chicago Blackhawks had the league’s 1-2 scorers but missed the playoffs.
But what about in the modern, 30+ team NHL era?
The current record for points in a season without a playoff appearance is shared by four teams. The 2017-18 Florida Panthers, 2018-19 Montreal Canadiens (co-record holders at 44 wins for a non-playoff team), and 2024-25 Calgary Flames all finished with 96 points and were rewarded by cleaning out their lockers after game 82.
The fourth team? That would be the 2014-15 Boston Bruins, who lost their spot to the Senators during the historic Hamburglar run in the last week of the season. Senators fans can hang their hat on the fact that history could absolutely repeat itself with only a slight dip in play by the Bruins.
But not so fast. As good as the Senators have been, the Bruins have matched them save for save, goal for goal in 2026. The two teams were tied for the best goal differential in the last 20 games at 21 each before Wednesday’s NHL games. Ottawa’s goal percentage at 61.9 percent in that stretch is second in the league, second only to, yup, Boston’s 62.96 percent.
Luck and goaltending have been bigger factors than ever, considering Ottawa leads the league in expected goals in that same stretch at 56.94 percent while Boston sits 27th at 47.25. Also in Ottawa’s favor is that according to tankathon.com, Boston, Columbus, and Pittsburgh have the top 3 hardest schedules remaining, while Ottawa’s is 11th.
One or both teams that will miss the playoffs in this year’s east could very well break that aforementioned 96-point record. According to Moneypuck.com, the point projections for the East’s mid-range playoff contenders as of March 12 break down as follows:
Montreal (102.4)
Detroit (98.4)
Pittsburgh (98.4)
New York Islanders (98.4)
Boston (98.2)
Columbus (97)
Ottawa (95.3)
This has created an odd microcosm where Ottawa’s playoff odds (according to Moneypuck) on March 11th stood at 55.8 percent. But one loss to Montreal later has wildly dropped their chances to 40.6 percent to make the playoffs, but they're still in the top ten to win the Cup at 4.5 percent.
The Senators also boast the fourth-best odds to make the final out of the East at 7.9 percent, which is crazy considering they sit at least five points back of the eight teams in playoff positions.
So if the cutoff is expected to be 96-98 points this season, Ottawa will need to win 13 of their remaining 18 games (or pull 26 points out of the 36 available), with added focus on winning as many of the head-to-head matchups as possible against Eastern teams in front of them like Pittsburgh, the Islanders (2), and Detroit.
So what does this all mean?
If you’re a fan of high-quality hockey decided by razor-thin margins that will end in euphoria for one team and utter heartbreak for another, then this is the season for you.
If you’re a fan of a Western Conference team in a playoff spot, you’re just grateful to avoid the knife fight going on in the Eastern standings.
And if you’re a fan of one of the Eastern teams that goes home after a stellar regular season, well, you’ll have to take solace in the fact that your NHL team will be considered among the greatest to ever miss the playoffs.
So... yay?
Andrew Sztein
The Hockey News
This article was originally published at The Hockey News. For more Senators news, analysis, and features, visit the Ottawa Senators site at The Hockey News.
PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 30: Anthony Mantha #39 of the Pittsburgh Penguins skates against the Carolina Hurricanes at PPG PAINTS Arena on December 30, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images
If we are being honest with ourselves, and if the Pittsburgh Penguins are being honest with themselves, forward Anthony Mantha was never supposed to be on the team at this point in the 2025-26 season. The plan with him was pretty obvious from the start. At least it seemed to be obvious.
This was anticipated to be more of a rebuilding year for the Penguins.
Mantha looked like he was going to be this year’s version of Anthony Beauvillier, a reclamation project veteran signed to a cheap one-year contract.
The Penguins would then give him top-six ice-time, let him score some goals and pad some stats and ultimately rebuild his value.
Trade him at the NHL Trade Deadline for a second-round pick to add to the pile of draft picks they have been accumulating.
That is what we all expected, right? That has to be what the Penguins expected.
But then a bunch of things started happening that maybe even the Penguins themselves did not fully anticipate.
Not only did the team start winning a lot of hockey games and play itself into playoff contention, but Mantha also ended up playing a major part in that success.
With his assist on Thursday he has already set a new career high in points. His next goal will match his career high (25) and there is a very good possibility that he ends up scoring 30 goals before this season is finished. He has been the best value free agent signing in the NHL this season. Given the way he has played, as well as the way the Penguins have played their way into contention, there is no way the Penguins were going to take that away from the locker room unless they were getting something significant back in return to help this season.
Obviously, that did not happen.
That now leaves the Penguins in a situation where Mantha is a pending unrestricted free agent after this season.
What do you do with him?
There is still a lot of hockey to be played between now and July, but given the way Mantha is playing, and with the way he has stepped up recently with some top players out of the lineup, it is a discussion worth having.
Do you shake his hand, thank him for his services, and wish him well in his next step?
Or do you do what would have been unimaginable at the start of this season and try to re-sign him and keep him?
As good as he has been, there is a definite risk with the latter approach.
While Mantha has been sneakily productive throughout his career, averaging around 24 goals and 50 points per 82 games, there is one big caveat that comes with it. It is the classic, “when healthy” line.
Health has been a big problem for Mantha throughout his career with pretty much every stop prior to Pittsburgh. This is quite honestly one of the first times he has really had an opportunity to play a regular role over the course of a full season (knock on wood) and that has to be taken into account. As does the fact he is going to be 32 years old.
There is also the fact he might actually be one of the top free agents available, coming off a career year, in a rising salary cap environment.
Somebody is going to pay him.
If you look at the potential unrestricted free agents going into this summer, the only player on the list that has more goals than Mantha is Buffalo Sabres forward Alex Tuch with 28. Alex Ovechkin has the same number of goals, but his options are returning to the Washington Capitals, returning to Russia, or retiring. I can not imagine he is going to be a serious option for anybody else.
After those guys, no other pending free UFA has scored more than 19 goals this season.
Salary cap space is not an issue for the Penguins. They are going to have to spend money on somebody, and given the current state of the open market I am not sure there is going to be a better player that comes in at a comparable price. They are also going to need at least one or two top-nine wingers. While you would like to see Rutger McGroarty or Ville Koivunen get more permanent roles, neither player is a lock to become an NHL regular. And even if they do next season, there would still be a potential need for another top-nine winger on the roster.
The obvious alternative — and perhaps the more likely path for the Penguins to follow — is the trade route. With their draft-pick capital, as well as an improved prospect pool, they could fill some of their needs via trade, and perhaps their biggest need (another young impact scorer).
I would not be opposed to another short-term deal (one or two years), even if it came with a high price tag. I would not go beyond that. But I am not sure a short-term gets it done given what the free agent market looks like and how it only takes one team to lose their minds and do something outrageous
The most likely path here is the one where the Penguins shake his hand, thank him for his services, and let another team take the risk with a long-term contract extension.
What would you do if you were Kyle Dubas? Try to sign him? And at what price and for how many years? Or let him walk?
Grizzlies vs Pistons best bet: Cade Cunningham Over 10.5 assists (-112)
Cade Cunningham is one of the top facilitators in the Association, and the numbers speak for themselves. The former first overall pick is averaging 10.0 dimes per contest, which ranks second in the league.
The guard is on a tear in March. He’s averaging 11.8 assists this month, and Cunningham has cashed the Over in back-to-back contests. During that span, he’s dished out a whopping 28 dimes.
Cunningham had 13 assists on Thursday against the 76ers. He also compiled 15 dimes on Tuesday versus the Nets. The Memphis Grizzlies are 20th in most assists allowed. Cunningham will cook.
Grizzlies vs Pistons same-game parlay
Jalen Duren has been a monster this season for the first-place Detroit Pistons, averaging 18.5 points and 10.5 rebounds. We’ll focus on his scoring output tonight. The big man has cashed the Over in two of his last three contests.
While Duren only scored 14 on Thursday, that’s because he didn’t play a ton due to Detroit blowing out Philly. He’s also hit the Over in three of his last five home contests.
Tobias Harris is averaging 13.1 ppg this season for the Pistons, and he’s posted Over 11.5 points in two of his last three. The veteran dropped 15 in a revenge game against the Sixers on Thursday.
He’s also hit the Over in back-to-back contests at Little Caesars Arena.
Grizzlies vs Pistons SGP
Cade Cunningham Over 10.5 assists
Jalen Duren Over 18.5 points
Tobias Harris Over 11.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: Robinson banks in from beyond the arc
Duncan Robinson has cashed the Over in treys in two straight, and he’s averaging 3.4 makes at home for an impressive 44.2% clip.
Grizzlies vs Pistons SGP
Cade Cunningham Over 10.5 assists
Jalen Duren Over 18.5 points
Tobias Harris Over 11.5 points
Duncan Robinson Over 2.5 threes
Grizzlies vs Pistons odds
Spread: Memphis +15.5 (-110) | Detroit -15.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Memphis +750 | Detroit -1200
Over/Under: Over 232.5 (-110) | Under 232.5 (-110)
Grizzlies vs Pistons betting trend to know
The Detroit Pistons have hit the 2Q Moneyline in 26 of their last 35 games at home (+16.35 Units / 26% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Grizzlies vs. Pistons.
How to watch Grizzlies vs Pistons
Location
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
Date
Friday, March 13, 2026
Tip-off
7:30 p.m. ET
TV
FDSN SE-Memphis, FDSN Detroit
Grizzlies vs Pistons latest injuries
Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JUNE 29: José Ramírez #11 of the Cleveland Guardians runs the bases after hitting a home run against the Kansas City Royals in the seventh inning at Kauffman Stadium on June 29, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Guardians seemingly do nothing each offseason, plug-and-play guys, and keep winning. They have had just one losing season since 2012, with eight playoff appearances in that time. Constancy. Sweet, sweet constancy.
The downside is they have just one pennant in that time, and have not won a championship since 1948. The team did make a major investment in All-Star third baseman José Ramírez, signing him to a seven-year, $175 million contract extension this offseason. Despite that, they’re projected to have the second-lowest payroll in baseball, par for the course for the franchise.
Cleveland Guardians
2025 record: 88-74
2026 PECOTA projection: 75-87
2026 ZIPS projection: 76-86
Manager: Stephen Vogt
Key additions: Shawn Armstrong, Rhys Hoskins
Key losses: Nic Enright, Jakob Junis, Jhonkensy Noel, Lane Thomas
Offense
The Guardians scored the third-fewest runs in baseball last year, despite an MVP-level performance by Ramírez. Steven Kwan is an All-Star-level performer as well, but he spent the entire offseason in trade rumors. The Guardians did get a breakout season from Kyle Manzardo, who terrorized Royals pitchers by hitting .382/.512/.794 with three home runs in 11 games against them. They brought over former Phillies and Brewers slugger Rhys Hoskins on a minor league deal, hoping he has something left in the tank at age 32 after suffering through a thumb injury last year.
The club is really banking on the farm system supplementing this lineup. Chase DeLauter is ranked as the #34 prospect in the game by Baseball America, but was limited to just 42 games in the minors last year due to a wrist injury. First baseman CJ Kayfus, outfielders Kahlil Watson and Ralphy Velazquez, and former #1 overall pick Travis Bazzana could also contribute this summer.
All statistics from 2025.
Pitching
Pitching has been the calling card for the Guardians in the last decade, and they finished with the fourth-best ERA in baseball. They are hurt by the loss of Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, both on non-paid disciplinary leave and facing federal indictments for their roles in a gambling scheme. Gavin Williams was one of the best pitchers in baseball after the All-Star break last year, with a 2.18 ERA that ranked third-best in the second half. Cleveland got 888 innings from their starters last year, second-most in baseball. Lefty Joey Cantillo could be poised for a breakout season, with a change-up that got a 49 percent whiff rate last year.
Even without Clase for part of the year, the Guardians had one of the best bullpens in baseball last season. Cade Smith will presumably take over closing duties after leading all relievers in fWAR last year. The only MLB free agent the team signed was Shawn Armstrong, who pitched effectively last year in Texas.
All statistics from 2025.
The Guardians are projected by most systems to be a losing team this year, but Stephen Vogt has twice won Manager of the Year by beating expectations. The Royals won just 5 of 13 games against the Guardians last year, so a better showing could help their chances in the standings. But don’t count the Guardians out, they just seem to find ways to win.
GOODYEAR, ARIZONA - MARCH 7: Slade Cecconi #44 of the Cleveland Guardians throws a pitch during a Spring Training game against the San Diego Padres at Goodyear Ballpark on March 7, 2026 in Goodyear, Arizona. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Guardians’ pitching staff turned in quite a performance yesterday, throwing a shutout against the Milwaukee Brewers, striking out 16, and winning 1-0.
It was, admittedly, the B-team for Milwaukee as far as hitting goes, but it was still good to have Slade Cecconi be sharp for four innings, allowing two hits and one walk and striking out six, Cade Smith be dominant again striking out two, Erik Sabrowski striking out the side, and Connor Brogdon and Codi Heur striking out two, and Will Dion finishing with a scoreless ninth as well, striking out one batter.
Chase DeLauter had a walk and scored a run, Kyle Manzardo singled him home, Rhys Hoskins and Gabriel Arias had singles and Angel Martinez hit a double… that’s about all the offense did.
For those worried about Kahl Stephen, he spoke to the media yesterday, so seems like he’s ok:
"There's a reputation of pitching here"#Guardians RHP Khal Stephen on finding out he was getting traded for Shane Bieber and his excitement to be in a pitching development system like Cleveland's#GuardsBall@WEWSpic.twitter.com/QnDxGWjQkw
For those worried about Jace LaViolette, assistant GM James Harris spoke highly of him to the media, mentioning his blazing speed:
"Last I checked, he was the second fastest person on campus, behind Fairchild"#Guardians assistant GM James Harris has been impressed with 2025 1st Round pick Jace LaViolette#GuardsBall@WEWSpic.twitter.com/Ts6TywJ70N
The panic levels are rising in a hurry for the Toronto Raptors after three straight losses, but they’re favorites to right the ship tonight against the Phoenix Suns.
Though some erratic offensive outings have plunged Toronto into play-in uncertainty, my Suns vs. Raptors predictions expect a response from RJ Barrett & Co. here, even with Phoenix chasing a playoff spot of its own.
Read on for my free NBA picks for Friday, March 13.
Suns vs Raptors prediction
Suns vs Raptors best bet: RJ Barrett Over 20.5 points (-105)
While Scottie Barnes is dealing with an illness and Brandon Ingram has had some tired outings this month, Barrett is soaring with 23.4 PPG on 60% shooting in March.
He’s scored 20+ points in five of his last six games, and there are positive signs with his 3-pointers after going 17-for-42 in his past eight contests.
Ingram draws so much attention that Barrett likely won’t see the Phoenix Suns’ best defenders tonight. He’s the key to Toronto getting back in the win column.
Suns vs Raptors same-game parlay
A big night from Barrett can be the catalyst for a Raptors win, and the hosts are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 meetings with the Suns.
Phoenix is on the second night of a back-to-back set, and the visitors are 4-9 SU this year with a rest disadvantage.
Jakob Poeltl still doesn’t look fully healthy, but he remains a difference-maker defensively. He’s had at least one block in six straight contests, and I’m picking him to extend that streak here.
Suns vs Raptors SGP
RJ Barrett Over 20.5 points
Raptors moneyline
Jakob Poeltl Over 0.5 blocks
Our "from downtown" SGP: Book It
With Dillon Brooks still out, Phoenix needs the very best of Devin Booker — and he’s coming off a 43-point explosion in Indiana last night.
Look for another complete stat line tonight from Book, who’s dished 22 dimes across his past three games.
Suns vs Raptors SGP
Devin Booker Over 26.5 points
Devin Booker Over 5.5 assists
Devin Booker Over 3.5 rebounds
Devin Booker Over 0.5 steals
Suns vs Raptors odds
Spread: Suns +4.5 | Raptors -4.5
Moneyline: Suns +155 | Raptors -185
Over/Under: Over 218.5 | Under 218.5
Suns vs Raptors betting trend to know
The Suns are 5-13 SU this season as road underdogs. Find more NBA betting trends for Suns vs. Raptors.
How to watch Suns vs Raptors
Location
Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON
Date
Friday, March 13, 2026
Tip-off
7:30 p.m. ET
TV
TSN, KTVK
Suns vs Raptors latest injuries
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NORTH PORT, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 20: Didier Fuentes #72 of the Atlanta Braves poses for a photo during Spring Training photo day at CoolToday Park on February 20, 2026 in North Port, Florida. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Spring Training is now in full swing and the Atlanta Braves have already made several moves to shape up what their opening day lineup is going to be.
One area that is not certain is who will shape up the back end of the rotation to start the year. Didier Fuentes is one of the arms in contention for a rotation spot, although the odds may not lead that way. Fuentes has only pitched 2.0 innings thus far this spring but will get the nod to start against the Yankees today in Northport.
In his two innings he did not give up a walk or hit. He did have a hit batsman but struck out four. Today he will face the Yankees with aspirations of proving he has what it takes to get some MLB playing time this season. He has never faced any of the players on the Yankees roster at the big league level, so it will be fun to see how he handles them.
Offseason acquisition Ryan Weathers will be pitching for the Yankees and has struggled to a 7.94 ERA in his limited sample of 5.2 innings this spring.
Today, the Braves are going with a lineup that is mix of everyday starters, potential platoon bats, and players fighting for the final spots. Ozzie Albies also rejoins the lineup after his time in the WBC.
It is safe to say that this lineup will not be the opening day lineup, but there is a legitimate chance that Kyle Farmer will make the roster to face lefties like he is today.
The Yankees are bringing a lineup similar to the Braves with some starters, but also some players that likely won’t make the Opening Day squad.
Odds are this game is not going to decide a rotation spot on its own for Fuentes, but he is one to keep an eye on along with Farmer who looks to possibly win a roster spot as a platoon bat against LHP.
SAN ANTONIO, TX -MARCH 12: Harrison Barnes #40 of the San Antonio Spurs shots over Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets in the first half at Frost Bank Center on March 12, 2026 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images) | Getty Images
For three quarters, the Victor Wembanyama-less San Antonio Spurs looked perfect. They were playing physically, getting out into the passing lanes, forcing the Denver Nuggets to take tough shots, and getting to the basket at will. But three-quarters of stellar basketball isn’t enough to take down Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. It takes a sustained 48 minutes of near-perfect basketball to beat an NBA Title contender without your best player.
The turning point seemed to come late in the third quarter, when Jokic was called for an illegal screen on Stephon Castle. A furious David Adelman challenged the call and was given a technical foul. After that, the Nuggets started to get more calls, and the Spurs’ physical advantage disappeared. Denver was able to get into the paint without Wembanyama there to stop them, and the tides turned quickly.
San Antonio didn’t do itself any favors in the fourth quarter. Some of the bad habits that led to blown leads earlier in the season were back with a vengeance on Thursday night. They turned the ball over, allowed the Nuggets to get out and run, and lost the battle in the paint. The game flipped on its head and was over in a flash.
There shouldn’t be a doomsday parade about the loss. Denver is a tough team, and the Spurs were a few bad bounces away from stealing this one without Wembanyama. It is, however, a reminder of what is ahead of them. In the playoffs, teams won’t roll over and die. It’ll take 48 minutes of sustained, near-perfect play to survive and advance.
Takeaways:
Castle is developing into a star in front of our eyes. He had his third triple-double of the season, and his second with 30 points. Castle bullied the Nuggets for 30 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. Most importantly, he shot 4-8 from three. While he’s only shooting 31.2% from deep this season, he is hitting 40.5% of his three-pointers after the All-Star break. Maybe it’s a hot streak, or maybe it’s a sign of legitimate improvement. Either way, when Castle is a threat to hit catch and shoot threes, the Spurs offense looks a lot better.
Harrison Barnes looked great in his return from injury. The veteran had 20 points off the bench on 6-10 shooting from the field. His jump shot looked great, and he gave San Antonio another steady wing who could create some opportunities off the dribble if needed. He’s a key player to get going heading into the playoffs. Thursday was a start in the right direction.
Carter Bryant continues to impress. He had 10 points in just 9 minutes against Denver. He still looks a bit awkward out there at times, particularly when he is forced to put the ball on the deck and drive to the basket, but he is finishing at the rim better than he has all season and is knocking down three-pointers. Bryant is knocking down 37.8% of his threes after the ASB.
It was a true neutral performance from the newest Spur with the best nickname in basketball, Mason “Plumdog Millionaire” Plumlee. He grabbed two rebounds and had two steals while scoring 0 points and having a 0 +/-. He fits well in the Spurs scheme as a third big. He’s adept at dribble handoffs, sets good screens, and is a solid defender on the other end.
I’m not one to typically complain about officiating, but it was uneven at best on Thursday. You know it’s bad when BOTH head coaches got a technical for complaining about calls.
ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 9: Umpire CB Bucknor #54 walks onto the field before the game between the Atlanta Braves and the Chicago Cubs at Truist Park on September 9, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Matthew Grimes Jr./Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images
If you watched the first inning of last night’s Spring Training game between the Astros and Nationals, you got to see the future of baseball on display. The ABS challenge system was put into overdrive, as three CB Bucknor calls were overturned in just the first inning. It was a quick and easy system that will be a genuine game changer for MLB.
There were two overturns just in the first at bat of the game. CJ Abrams successfully challenged the second pitch of the game, turning a 1-1 count into 2-0 count. When the count was full, Astros catcher Yainer Diaz returned the favor, turning a walk into a strikeout on a breaking ball that just clipped the top of the zone. There was actually a called strike in the at bat that Abrams should have challenged but did not.
In the bottom half of the inning, it was Keibert Ruiz’s turn to help out his pitcher. He challenged a ball call, which was clearly in the zone. That made three overturns on CB Bucknor calls in just the first inning. This new system is clearly going to hurt some umpire’s pride this season. They are going to have to be on their A game at all times.
Those were not the only challenges of the game though. In the bottom of the second inning, Ruiz won another challenge on a faulty Bucknor call. That made it four overturns in just two innings. After all, it is Spring Training for the umpires as well.
Four overturned calls for CB Bucknor through two innings already
As the game went on, things calmed down. Bucknor was actually vindicated a couple times later in the game, with two challenges going his way. This is going to be such an interesting storyline to follow as the season gets going. Baseball Savant is going to be tracking this like a hawk, so we will see who is the best and worst at challenges.
It will also expose some of the weaker umpires we have in the sport. I am not surprised that it was CB Bucknor behind the plate when all these calls got overturned. He does not have a strong reputation as an umpire, and the numbers bear that out. Bucknor was towards the bottom of the umpire rankings last year.
After seeing this, there are definitely going to be games where this challenge system goes viral. There were some calls that could have gotten challenged early in the game that didn’t. That would have made things even worse for Bucknor. Umpires are going to have their feet held to the fire in a way they have not before.
The players are also going to need to know when to challenge as well. You can only fail two challenges before you run out for the game, so you have to be sure if you are challenging. That is why most teams have the catcher challenge rather than the pitcher, who could be liable to make rash decisions.
This is going to be an amazing wrinkle to this season. It is also very quick and easy. These challenges only take a few seconds, so it does not slow down the game much at all. It is also a bit of a spectacle for the fans because they show the decision up on the big screen. Having these decisions go down in playoff games is going to be really exciting.
Like the pitch clock, I think the ABS challenge system is going to be a big hit. Rob Manfred takes a lot of heat, much of it being justified, but he has made some great changes the past few years. The pitch clock was the best change the sport has seen in decades and now the ABS challenge system looks like it will also be a success. I am very excited to see how this plays out in the regular season.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MARCH 12: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics on March 12, 2026 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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 Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
#1 – Turnovers management
Deep into the season, you have a sense of what the game should look like and what could be a turning point. For this matchup against the last two champions, taking care of the ball while forcing turnovers would be one of the keys to winning overall.
Boston has been the best team in the league at avoiding turnovers, and OKC is right behind them. In the meantime, OKC is also one of the two best teams at forcing turnovers. The goal for the Celtics was to make sure they don’t get dominated in that area so they could stay in the game as long as possible.
Which they did. Both teams lost the ball 12 times, and many of those were caused by the high pressure put on the go-to guys for each team. Jaylen Brown lost the ball 6 times while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander turned it over 4 times.
From these turnovers, both teams did a great job defending the transition as the Celtics scored only 14 points off turnovers and the Thunder 16. The turnover battle being so even is one of the reasons the game was close. Let’s now look at the other layers of that strategic battle.
#2 – Keeping Neemias Queta in the paint
The Celtics and the Thunder went into that game knowing that Queta would hardly defend the opposing center. With Isaiah Hartenstein sidelined, the two centers for OKC were stretch bigs with Chet Holmgren and Jaylin Williams. In these scenarios, Joe Mazzulla and his coaching staff have shown they would rather have a wing like Hauser on the opposing big while Queta defends the opponent’s worst shooter.
On the play above, Queta isn’t concerned at all with Alex Caruso and roams in the paint to make sure he can help on the drive and protect the rim. Yet, as soon as Caruso has the ball, he must defend him and does a great job blocking the layup attempt.
When Caruso was in the weakside corner, it was the perfect situation for Queta because he could come from behind and protect the rim like a goalkeeper. Here, Payton Pritchard is beaten on the drive, but here comes Queta and his long arm.
So, if the Celtics found a way to defend the paint so well, how is it possible that the Thunder had 75% efficiency on shot attempts within four feet of the rim?
#3 – Too many defensive collapses
Despite great effort on defense, especially on SGA, the Celtics made too many mistakes to get the win in the end. It’s little things, but against such an elite team, it makes it hard to win with these defensive errors.
Here for example, Caruso and Queta are on the strong side, which takes away the rim protection. Jordan Walsh stays up to help Pritchard on the ball and that creates a big gap in the paint so Aaron Wiggins can cut and finish at the rim.
The rotations weren’t on point from time to time, leading to way too many easy shots at the rim. Here again, the cut to the paint is open because nobody tags the roll man. It could have been Brown from the strong side or Luka Garza who could have come from the weakside and left Lu Dort alone — but no one showed up and that’s a dunk.
That play shows well why the defense can’t fall asleep even for a second around a great playmaker like SGA. Jaylen switches off the MVP but wants to help in the driving lane. However, he forgets his man on his back and that’s another open shot at the rim for OKC, who made sure to cash out on these defensive mistakes.
Overall, 18 field goals made from 24 attempts at the rim for the Thunder. The Celtics will need to fix that before the next matchup in Boston later this month.
#4 – Flare screen to open corners
While the defense had flaws in its execution, there were also great things going on offensively, especially to open the corner. The Celtics knew the Thunder are a team that will collapse easily to make sure they protect the paint. To use that as an advantage, Boston used a flare screen to attract defenders and open the corner.
Here for example, Queta’s screen and run to the paint absorbs SGA and that leaves Baylor Scheierman open.
While you could think it is accidental and that it was caused by Caruso’s fall (or flop), the Celtics ran the same action a little bit later, this time for a Hugo Gonzalez corner three. This is a great example of how gravity can make a defense break.
#5 – Jaylen Brown’s gravity
Speaking of gravity, Jaylen Brown’s game last night was a statement about the player he has become. Some plays in particular speak loudly, and this one with Sam Hauser is one of them. The Celtics shooters come and set a screen to force a switch on AJ Mitchell but the Thunder defense would rather send two players, even if that leaves one of the best shooters in the NBA open.
This screenshot from his seventh assist also says a lot. There is Dort on his back, Cason Wallace on his right, and Williams in between him and the paint. Because of his gravity, both Pritchard and Queta are open and this leads to another open shot.
Yet, with great gravity comes big responsibilities and sometimes Brown got caught up with bad passes and offensive fouls — but that’s part of the deal. The Thunder were willing to send two players at him and maybe the Celtics could have exploited that a little more rather than forcing the decision with JB.
Of course, he scored 34 points and was able to generate 14 free throws, but this also came with 15 missed shots and 6 turnovers. It is hard to find the right balance when you are responsible for your team’s gravity.
#6 – An isolation tournament
But Jaylen Brown wasn’t the only one hunting for one-on-one shots. SGA and Pritchard also had their share of isolations. Payton started off well with a couple of made shots against Wallace and Holmgren.
And of course, the step-back to close the first half. Despite having three players focused on him and the whole arena expecting him to be the one who shoots.
Despite this good start, the Celtics guard was only able to convert 6 of his 17 shot attempts, struggling from deep with a 2-for-9 mark beyond the line. And while PP and JB had some ups and downs in their isolations, SGA seemed unstoppable with 35 points on 18 shot attempts.
Dealing with SGA scoring was hard, but the Celtics still showed some great things despite the defeat.
#7 – Dealing with a MVP
How do you stop one of the two best players in the NBA? Well, you don’t — but you can pick your poison.
Joe Mazzulla on guarding SGA and how it’s a give and take:
“He’s obviously a great player. So you have to pick your poison and what you're going to take away. He only shot 8 free throws, so that's a part of that.”
The Celtics remained very disciplined and avoided, as much as possible, jumping on fakes and getting caught in SGA’s wizardry. Also, the Celtics have something quite remarkable when it comes to defending such a player: a deep roster with a lot of wings.
On this possession SGA uses a screen from Isaiah Joe to get rid of Jordan Walsh’s matchup, but instead he is now defended by Ron Harper Jr., who finds a way to steal the ball with his long arms.
Yet SGA was still the offensive engine for his team, and what might have become even harder against him is forcing him to give the ball away. Not because he doesn’t want to, but because he has improved a lot as a passer.
Despite playing without Jalen Williams and Hartenstein, the point guard was also able to make the whole team shine with nine assists and take advantage of the Celtics’ willingness to put pressure on him. He remained calm and collected and the Celtics lost the minutes he was on the floor by 14 points.
#8 – Dominating the glass
Despite losing because of an offensive rebound, the Celtics won the possession battle against the Thunder because they exploited one of their only weaknesses: the defensive rebound. Especially without Hartenstein.
Because of that impact on the offensive glass, the Celtics had five more possessions overall than the Thunder — and in a game decided by one possession, it could have changed a lot if Chet hadn’t gotten the board at the last second.
But that’s the trick when you play only with wings and guards. Holmgren was taller than anyone else on the court and the Thunder got lucky that the ball bounced near him. Yet the Celtics’ possession battle edge almost won them the game and it will be interesting to see if they can do it again in a couple of weeks.
#9 – The spanish Caruso
What a game from Gonzalez! As often against great teams, his ability to play multiple positions on defense and his motor to win possessions have a direct impact on the game. Just watch this possession where he blocks a triple and steals the ball from SGA on a drive.
Hugo Gonzalez is a special defender
Blocks the three and gets the back tap on SGA for the steal
That is special. On offense too, the juice he brings in transition and on the offensive board makes the team far better in the possession battle when he is on the court. Look how fast he is to get to the other end of the court for a layup.
Against OKC and Alex Caruso, analysts across the internet quickly saw how much Hugo Gonzalez could be inspired by the two-time NBA champion’s path, and how much he already impacts the game like him.
Six games out of seven at home in the next weeks for the Boston Celtics — a great opportunity to get closer to the 50th win. Could Joe Mazzulla’s team use the TD Garden crowd to fuel a run and secure a top-two spot in the East before April?
