CHICAGO — Jason Heyward, who launched his 16-year major league career with the Atlanta Braves in 2010 and won a World Series title with the Chicago Cubs in 2016, announced his retirement on Friday.
Heyward played in 34 games with San Diego in 2025, hitting .176.
For his career, Heyward hit .255 with 186 home runs with six teams. He also played for St. Louis, Houston and the Los Angeles Dodgers. The outfielder won five Gold Gloves, including four straight seasons from 2014 through 2017.
Heyward, whose nickname is “J Hey,” played his first five seasons with the Braves and set career highs with 27 homers and 82 RBIs for Atlanta in 2012. He was drafted by the Braves in 2007 from Henry County High School in suburban Atlanta.
Heyward played for the Cubs for seven seasons, from 2016 through 2022. He said he plans to focus on his Jason Heyward Baseball Academy, a youth development program based in Chicago.
“I wanted to reach this moment and know without a doubt that it was time to walk away, and I do,” Heyward said in a statement. “No second-guessing, no looking back, just gratitude.”
Heyward said playing 16 years in the major leagues “gave me everything, and now I get to give some of that back. Through the Jason Heyward Baseball Academy, I get to mentor the next generation, keep my hands in the game, and make sure kids in my community have the opportunities and the space to dream the same way I did.”
The Chicago Blackhawks have 10 games remaining in their 2025-26 season. It’s been an up-and-down year, but there has been plenty of growth within the organization, which was all they wanted coming in. Their off-season was an indication that this year would be another developmental year, and sure enough, it was.
On Friday night, the Blackhawks will be at Madison Square Garden to take on the New York Rangers. This is the third game out of four on Chicago’s current road trip on the East Coast.
Scouting New York
The New York Rangers are having a tough year. They came in hoping to bounce back from a down year in 2024-25, but it became even worse in 2025-26. Right now, they are the only team in the Eastern Conference mathematically eliminated from postseason contention.
Ahead of the Olympic break, the Rangers traded their superstar, former Blackhawk Artemi Panarin, to the Los Angeles Kings. He was a pending unrestricted free agent, but has since signed an extension in LA.
Although many believed that more names would be moved ahead of the deadline, the Rangers did little else.
Perreault-Zibanejad-Lafrenière
Kartye-Miller-Sheary
Cuylle-Trocheck-Sýkora
Raddysh-Brodzinski-Chmelař
Gavrikov-Fox
Borgen-Schneider
Fortescue-Robertson
Garand
Without Panarin, Alexis Lafreniere has been the go-to scoring winger. The former number one overall pick has had some ups and downs in his career, but he's been hot since the Olympics. If the Rangers keep him long-term, his success will be a key to them turning things around.
Down the middle, Mika Zibanejad, J.T. Miller, and Vincent Trocheck are an outstanding 1-2-3 punch. Their place in the standings doesn't make much sense when looking at this trio at center, especially with the goaltending they get, but the reality is that they haven't scored enough, especially at home.
Their number one defenseman, Adam Fox, is still elite, but it's been a down year for him on a personal level, too. He missed out on playing for Team USA as a result. Fox has a big summer ahead of him as he looks to get back on track.
Gabe Perreault, the former Boston College and USA World Junior hero, is a strong rookie finally getting some playing time with the Rangers. He is a clutch player that the Blackhawks must be keeping an eye on when he's out there with the top line. Alex Vlasic and Wyatt Kaiser are sure to see a lot of this line.
For Drew Fortescue, this is going to be his NHL debut as a member of the Rangers. As a New York native, making his debut against another Original Six team at MSG is sure to be exciting.
Igor Shesterkin, one of the best goalies on Earth, is going to be on the bench for this one. The Blackhawks will face Dylan Garand, who is on the roster in place of the injured Jonathan Quick.
Projected Lines, Defense Pairs, & Goalie For Chicago
The Blackhawks are in the second half of a back-to-back. The first game was a blowout loss to the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday night. Everything about that game was forgettable, besides the NHL debut of Sacha Boisvert and Connor Bedard scoring his 30th goal of the season, assisted by Anton Frondell.
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Spencer Knight started in goal against the Flyers. He gave up five goals in the loss. He faced 42 shots, and the team in front of him provided no help, so it was hardly his fault. Still, you can expect Arvid Soderblom to get the start against the Rangers.
Louis Crevier took a skate-blade to the face in Philadelphia. It was a scary-looking situation, but he is going to be okay. There is no indication that he won't be back in the lineup on Friday in New York.
Other than Soderblom going in for Knight, the lineup is likely to be the same at the start of the game. Having less than a day to move past that game in Philly is good for this group.
How To Watch
The game can be heard locally on AM 720 WGN in the Chicagoland area. To view this game, it is available on CHSN locally. Nationally, it is available to stream on ESPN+. The puck will drop shortly after 6:00 PM CT.
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The shorthanded Memphis Grizzlies host the struggling Houston Rockets on Friday night at FedExForum.
Memphis’ frontcourt is decimated with injuries, and my Rockets vs Grizzlies predictions expect Amen Thompson to have a tremendous showing on the glass.
Here are my best free NBA picks for this Western Conference showdown on Friday, March 27.
Rockets vs Grizzlies prediction
Rockets vs Grizzlies best bet: Amen Thompson Over 7.5 rebounds (-135)
Amen Thompson is one of the Houston Rockets' best rebounders, pulling down a career-high 7.9 boards per game. He's recorded at least eight rebounds in 36 of 70 games overall, going for exactly seven rebounds 13 more times.
Thompson has corralled 8.3 rebounds on the road compared to 7.4 at home, and he's gone for 8+ in 21 of 36 away from Toyota Center.
Since the All-Star break, Thompson has pulled down 8.7 rebounds per game and recorded 8+ in nine of 18 appearances. He leads the team in rebounds over the Rockets' last seven games at 10.3, and he's hit the Over on this line five times in that span.
Alperen Sengun has taken a step back as a rebounder, grabbing just 7.7 boards per game across his last 10 outings, allowing Thompson to take a significant step forward in that department.
The Memphis Grizzlies sport one of the thinnest and smallest frontcourt lineups in the NBA, and the team has been highly vulnerable to opposing rebounders.
Over the last 10 games, Memphis has surrendered a league-high 49.7 rebounds, including the third-most offensive rebounds at 13.8. Thompson has been surging as a rebounder, and he should be even better in such a favorable road matchup.
Rockets vs Grizzlies same-game parlay
Thompson recorded 10 dimes in his last game out, and he’s reached that mark in five of his last 11. He’s dished 6+ dimes in 32 of 70 appearances, including 18 of 36 on the road. Thompson finished with 14 and seven assists in two matchups with the Grizzlies.
Tonight’s game should be a great bounce-back opportunity for the Rockets, but Houston has been disappointing as of late. After losing to the Chicago Bulls, they gave up a 13-point lead in overtime.
The Rockets could win in a blowout, but I wouldn’t be at all surprised if the shorthanded Grizz keep things close. Instead, I’ll bet the Over. Both teams are ranked in the bottom 10 in defense across their last 10 appearances, and buckets should come easily.
Rockets vs Grizzlies SGP
Amen Thompson Over 7.5 rebounds
Amen Thompson Over 5.5 assists
Over 227.5
Our "from downtown" SGP: Durant from Downtown!
Across the last 10 games, Memphis has allowed the fourth-most triples and the eighth-highest three-point percentage to opponents. Thompson should have ample opportunities to drive and kick out to Kevin Durant and Reed Sheppard or corral offensive rebounds and find shooters for second-chance buckets.
Durant has hit 3+ triples in three of his last four games, and he hit four in his last matchup with the Grizzlies. Sheppard has knocked down just 5-of-24 three-pointers across his last two games, but he’s due for a rebound performance in this favorable matchup.
Rockets vs Grizzlies SGP
Amen Thompson Over 7.5 rebounds
Amen Thompson Over 5.5 assists
Reed Sheppard Over 3.5 three-pointers
Kevin Durant Over 2.5 three-pointers
Rockets vs Grizzlies odds
Spread: Rockets -12.5 | Grizzlies +12.5
Moneyline: Rockets -900 | Grizzlies +600
Over/Under: Over 227.5 | Under 227.5
Rockets vs Grizzlies betting trend to know
The Houston Rockets have only covered the Spread in 16 of their last 50 games (-21.40 Units / -39% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Rockets vs. Grizzlies.
How to watch Rockets vs Grizzlies
Location
FedExForum, Memphis, TN
Date
Friday, March 27, 2026
Tip-off
8:00 p.m. ET
TV
Space City Home Network, FDSN Southeast
Rockets vs Grizzlies latest injuries
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The Los Angeles Lakers are finally back in La-La Land after a successful road trip, and waiting for them inside Crypto.com Arena are the lowly Brooklyn Nets.
Brooklyn sits near the bottom of the Eastern Conference and brings a nine-game losing skid to Los Angeles, which has bookies listing the Lakers as hefty home favorites.
My Nets vs. Lakers predictions dig into how that opens up LeBron James’ potential as a playmaker.
Nets vs Lakers best bet: LeBron James Over 6.5 assists (-125)
With little threat of losing tonight, the Los Angeles Lakers are thinking about sitting Luka Doncic tonight. Doncic has put in a ton of minutes during the Lakers’ 10-1 SU run, and he's also been fighting through a tender hamstring.
He’s questionable against the Brooklyn Nets, which would leave a ton of touches on the table for Los Angeles. Doncic is a primary ball handler, and his absence slides LeBron James into that role.
The veteran forward has averaged 67.5 touches during that 11-game span (Doncic is getting 90.5), with his potential assists sitting at 11.6. That’s produced 6.5 actual assists per contest during the streak.
An increase in ball-handling duties instantly juices LeBron’s playmaking prowess, which we see in his season production when Doncic is sidelined. In the past four games with Doncic out and James in, he’s averaged 10 assists per game.
The Nets aren’t providing much in the way of defense as it tries to tank for a Top 3 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. Brooklyn has allowed more than 118 points against since the All-Star break and is among the worst teams in opponent assist-to-FGM rate (24th), with foes handing out over 27 assists an outing.
James’ projections all sit north of seven assists — and that’s with Doncic in the lineup. Should Luka sit, LeBron’s passing prop soars.
Nets vs Lakers same-game parlay
The No. 3 seed in the Western Conference is still up for grabs, so while Los Angeles may sit Luka, it doesn’t take the Nets lightly. Brooklyn is closing out a road trip in L.A. tonight, which probably has this losing team more concerned with off-court plans.
With James stepping up as a passer, Austin Reaves can be more of a scorer and pick up the slack with Doncic potentially out. Given the expected game script, Reaves could also get extra rest once L.A. pulls away in the second half.
Nets vs Lakers SGP
Lakers +16
LeBron James Over 6.5 assists
Austin Reaves Under 5.5 assists
Our "from downtown" SGP: The King's Court
The possibility of a Luka-less Lakers rotation puts LeBron in the spotlight. He’s projected to top his assists, triples, and rebound props tonight.
In the last four games without Doncic, LeBron has pulled down 6+ boards in each game while hitting two or more 3-pointers in two of those outings.
Nets vs Lakers SGP
Lakers +16
LeBron James Over 6.5 assists
LeBron James Over 1.5 threes
LeBron James Over 5.5 rebounds
Nets vs Lakers odds
Spread: Nets +16 (-110) | Lakers -16 (-110)
Moneyline: Nets +900 | Lakers -1600
Over/Under: Over 222.5 (-110) | Under 222.5 (-110)
Nets vs Lakers betting trend to know
Brooklyn is 5-24 SU and 11-17-1 ATS (39.7%) in non-conference games this season. Find more NBA betting trends for Nets vs. Lakers.
How to watch Nets vs Lakers
Location
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Date
Friday, March 27, 2026
Tip-off
10:30 p.m. ET
TV
YES, Spectrum SportsNet
Nets vs Lakers 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.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 26: Carson Benge #3 of the New York Mets reacts to hitting his first home run in his MLB Debut during the sixth inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Opening Day at Citi Field on March 26, 2026 in the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Unsurprisingly, the vibes were good after the Mets’ 11-7 Opening Day victory over the Pirates at Citi Field on Thursday afternoon. That reflected in the post-game comments, where there were a lot of positive things to say about the team’s performance in the win.
Carlos Mendoza
On the team’s approach against Paul Skenes in the five-run first inning: “If you want to beat guys like this…you’re going to have to play perfect baseball, pretty much, not only putting together some pretty good at-bats, but running the bases, putting the ball in play. That whole inning, the way everything unfolded, was pretty impressive. Overall, one through nine, pretty solid day, and it says a lot about our offense.” (MLB)
On the team getting contributions from the entire lineup: “They continued to add on. Not only that first inning, but that fifth inning was as good as the first one, where they’re controlling the strike zone, they’re creating traffic, we’re putting the ball in play with two strikes, we’re going the other way when we need to, that’s the sign of a good offensive team from one through nine. When you get contributions from Marcus [Semien], from [Carson] Benge, and Alvy [Francisco Alvarez], and we’re able to turn that lineup over, we’re going to be in a good place.” (MLB)
About Benge’s debut: “Who he is is super consistent. He’s 0-for-2 with a couple of strikeouts and he still feels pretty good about his chances. He controls the strike zones, he walks…and then he gets a pitch where he can do damage and goes to the pull side like that. I’m not surprised by it.” (SNY)
About Peralta’s Mets debut: “Other than the two mistakes there to Lowe, I thought he was pretty good. They put together some really good at-bats…he was able to get through five on a day where, like I said, a couple of missed pitches there where they clipped him. But overall, I thought he was very good.” (SNY)
Carson Benge
On his first major league home run: “I kind of blacked out running around the bases. I don’t really remember too much. I know I got it good off the bat.” (SNY)
On his support system in his major league debut: “It means the world, you now. Having all the people that have sacrificed so much for me come up and watch that happen is definitely big.” (SNY)
On his approach following the two strikeouts: “Just calm down. Deep breath, calm down. Great atmosphere, great fans, just trying to bring myself back down so I can compete.” (SNY)
On the Citi Field crowd: “It was amazing. The crowd was the loudest I’ve ever heard, times five.” (SNY)
On the reaction from the fans: “I just got chills that this is where I’m supposed to be and just having fun every day playing baseball.” (SNY)
On the dead bird incident: “I heard a thud, I looked over and it was just down. Down for the count.” (SNY)
Freddy Peralta
On the atmosphere at Citi Field: “Amazing, man, amazing. I think, personally, something that helped me to get better. But it’s amazing and I can’t wait to see it in the rest of the season that same way.” (SNY)
On the offense picking him up: “Amazing! I asked them earlier today before the game, ‘I need some runs from you guys.’ But damn, that’s crazy!” (SNY)
On the feeling of walking to the mound in a different uniform: “I don’t know how to explain to you right now what is the difference, but it feels different. The energy from the first pitch to the last one, you can feel it.” (SNY)
On his plans for a barbecue after Opening Day: “I wish. I don’t know, you never know. I’m going to keep it a secret. It may happen, yeah!” (SNY)
Bo Bichette
On his competitive at-bats: “The goal of our team should be to have the most competitive at-bats every single day.” (SNY)
On the mindset after getting down 2-0 in the first: “I mean it’s the first game, but it could give us a glimpse into what we want to be as a team. You know, getting down early and coming back against you know, maybe the best in the game. That’s good stuff, so we’ll try to keep it going.” (SNY)
Brett Baty
On contributing to the team’s Opening Day victory: “That was awesome. That was a really fun game. Our lineup was really special, put together a lot of scrappy at-bats, and then Freddy, the bullpen…it was awesome.” (SNY)
On Benge’s debut: “Unbelievable. Really, really cool. I think if I’m remembering correctly, Alvy hit a home run his first hit, maybe, and I think I did it, too. Well, I know I did it. But no, it was really really special, and I’m super happy for him.” (SNY)
On the team’s lineup: “It’s huge, that’s what we harp on. We’re a complete lineup. If you wear the pitcher down, then somebody in our lineup’s going to get a mistake and do some damage with it.” (SNY)
Chase DeLauter is ready to haunt Chicago pitching for the next six years. | (Brandon Sloter/Getty Images)
MLB Spring Training is over, and the 2026 baseball season is upon us! As teams put the final touches on their Opening Day rosters, let’s look at some of the biggest headlines across the league.
10. Grayson Rodriguez starts on the Angels IL
The Angels have always struggled with pitching, but missing the ace they traded for ranks high on the Halo’s biggest worries this year. Rodriguez didn’t throw a single regular-season pitch with Baltimore in 2025 after missing the season due to a right lat strain, and his return has been delayed due to severe arm weakness, known as ‘dead arm.’ Rodriguez’s absence makes trading Taylor Ward away look like a huge mistake right now.
9. Konnor Griffin misses Opening Day
MLB’s No. 1 prospect will have to wait to pencil in his debut date. The Pirates’ 2024 first-round pick made a splash in his first year in the minors, slashing .333/.415/.527 while belting 24 home runs and 94 RBIs from Single to Double-A ball. For the first time in a blue moon, Pittsburgh is making the right call not to rush Griffin to the majors. While he has the highest odds of being the NL Rookie of the Year, he can wait an extra month or two to earn the accolade.
8. Atlanta’s rotation is plagued with injuries
What should’ve been a bounce-back year is already starting on the wrong foot for the Braves. Atlanta can create their own rotation from injured starters alone. Ace Spencer Strider is out for at least two weeks, with Spencer Schwellenbach also sidelined for a few months. Losing that much production will sting.
Dave Roberts has too many great players and not enough roster spots. Utility player Kim was optioned to the Oklahoma City Comets ahead of Opening Day. His strong .280/.314/.385 slash line and 13 stolen bases off the bench last year wasn’t enough to beat out LA’s No. 8 prospect Alex Freeland. Kim won’t be in Triple-A long, though, whether it’s with the Dodgers or another organization.
6. No lefties in the Dbacks bullpen
The MO for general managers is to have a fair mix of lefty and righty pitchers to keep batters on the tips of their cleats. Still, the Arizona Diamondbacks took an unconventional, and likely unintentional, approach to finalizing their pitching staff. Maybe GM Mike Hazen is taking a Billy Beane approach, ignoring the psychology- and performance-driven strategies that have dominated roster construction and pitching changes. Or, perhaps it’s just a fun coincidence. Either way, it will be fun to see how this decision shakes out.
The D-backs will have ZERO LHP in the Opening Day bullpen ❌
RHP Paul Sewald (35) RHP Ryan Thompson (33) RHP Kevin Ginkel (32 tomorrow) RHP Taylor Clarke (32) RHP Joe Ross (32) RHP Jonathan Loáisiga (31) RHP Juan Morillo (27) RHP Andrew Hoffmann (26) pic.twitter.com/9qBxPdLv2a
5. Top prospect JJ Wetherholt makes Cardinals roster
The projected best player in St. Louis will headline the lineup on Opening Day. Although he struggled during Spring Training, Wetherholt taxed pitchers last year with a .306 batting average, .421 on-base percentage, and 72 walks. His high offensive ceiling and speed should be enough to bring fans to one of the most underrated ballparks in the league.
4. Rangers break Opening Day news to Carter Baumler on the mound
What’s the best way to learn that you’ve made the Opening Day roster as a Rule 5 Draft pick? If you didn’t say during a game during a mound visit, you’re wrong. Texas manager Skip Schumaker marched to the mound after five straight outs from Baumler, not to send him to the dugout, but to break the great news. This is another reason why it’s impossible not to be romantic about baseball.
Skip Schumaker told Rule 5 pick Carter Baumler that he made the Rangers Opening Day roster during a mound visit 🥹 pic.twitter.com/19J10vk39Q
The Bronx made the tough decision to option 2024 Rookie of the Year Gil to Triple-A. Despite pitching well after spending nearly half the season on the IL, Aaron Boone claims that the Yankees don’t need a fifth starter until mid-April, with roster priority being given to reliever Rule 5 pick Cade Winquest and relievers Jake Bird and Brent Headrick. Why give the ball to a reliable guy when you can experiment with three less-proven players?
2. Detroit’s Kevin McGoingle set to make his debut
The Tigers’ star shortstop prospect is ready to get to work. The 2023 draft pick has quickly made a name for himself, tallying three-straight .300+ batting average, .400+ on-base percentage, and .850 on-base plus slugging percentage seasons across his minor league stints. Detroit is making an interesting decision to have McGoingle skip Triple-A and go straight to the majors, but if it works out, it’ll look genius.
Kevin McGonigle has made the @Tigers Opening Day roster!
1. Chase DeLauter secures locker in Guardians clubhouse
MLB’s No. 46 overall prospect will be in Seattle’s right field to start the season after a Spring Training that went exactly how Cleveland fans hoped. DeLauter’s exceptional .459/.535/.838 slash line, three home runs, 10 runs driven in, and 10 runs scored with only four strikeouts in 14 games has the Guardians and baseball fans across the nation pumped to see this young stud’s first at-bats.
Rand won gold, silver and bronze medals at Tokyo 1964
Mary Peters pays tribute to ‘most gifted athlete ever’
Mary Rand, the British track and field athlete who blazed a trail for women by winning three Olympic medals at the Tokyo Games in 1964, has died at the age of 86.
Rand was one of the giants of her sport: the epitome of speed, power and grace. Her long jump victory in Tokyo made her Britain’s first female Olympic gold medallist in athletics, and she followed it up with a silver in the pentathlon and a bronze in the 4x100m relay.
Alex Vesia’s wife was happy to be back at another Opening Day at Dodger Stadium on Thursday, but she noted it was very difficult to be there without her and Alex’s daughter, who passed away in October.
Kayla Vesia attended Los Angeles’ season opener against the Diamondbacks, and in an Instagram post, she called her evening at the ballpark “very bitter sweet.”
“What I would give to have my Sterling girl here,” Kayla wrote, “carrying her in my heart always.”
Alex and Kayla announced on Nov. 7 that Sterling Vesia, their newborn, died on Oct. 26. They wrote at the time there were “no words to describe the pain we’re going through.”
Alex Vesia missed the Dodgers’ World Series win over the Blue Jays following the death of his daughter. JASON SZENES FOR CA POST
Alex wrote a sweet note to Kayla in the comment section of her post later Thursday night.
“I LOVE YOU SOOO MUCH!!” he said, adding three red heart emojis.
Alex and Kayla Vesia wrote in November that their baby girl, Sterling, died in October. Alex Vesia
At a spring training workout last month, Alex read a lengthy statement to reporters in which he touched on the heartache he and Kayla endured last fall.
“The lessons we’ve learned from this is that life can change in an instant,” Alex said. “Ten minutes is all it took. Sterling Sol was the most beautiful girl in the world. We got to hold her, change her diaper, read to her and love her. Our time together was far too short. Kay and I will keep those precious moments and memories to ourselves. I hope that anyone listening can empathize and respect our wishes for privacy as we continue to heal, and as we navigate the ups and downs of a baseball season.”
While Alex didn’t appear in the Dodgers’ 8-2 victory over Arizona, he is expected to toe the rubber at some point in the series.
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One of the most intriguing baseball betting options is the “run first inning” market, where you can wager on whether there will be a scorer plated in the opening frame.
With two potent offenses facing off in tonight’s NL West duel between the Dodgers and Diamondbacks, my MLB picks expect early fireworks.
Check out the rest of my free NRFI and YRFI bets for Friday, March 27.
Best NRFI/YRFI bets today
Pick
Odds
/ - NRFI
-125
/ - YRFI
-102
/ - YRFI
-113
Rockies at Marlins: NRFI (-125)
The Colorado Rockies have the worst offense in the majors, especially on the road, where they posted a pathetic .589 OPS and averaged just 2.81 runs per game last year.
Meanwhile, the Miami Marlins had a .693 OPS with 3.91 runs per game at home. Neither team has made significant lineup upgrades, and 10 mph winds are blowing toward the infield at LoanDepot Park tonight.
Miami is handing the ball to former Cy Young winner Sandy Alcantara, who struggled last season coming off Tommy John surgery. Now two and a half years removed from the procedure, he could be in line for a resurgent campaign.
Time: 7:10 p.m. ET
Where to watch: Marlins.TV | Rockies.TV
Angels at Astros: YRFI (-102)
Although Houston Astros righty Mike Burrows looked good in the preseason, I’m not convinced he’s a true No. 2 starter.
Burrows posted a 4.33 xERA last year, and the Los Angeles Angels ranked third in the majors in first-inning scoring percentage (33.3%). The Halos lack depth, but they’re strong at the top of the lineup — at least when Mike Trout is healthy.
L.A. will counter with lefty Yusei Kikuchi, who had a 4.48 xERA last year and sported a 6.00 ERA in the first inning. The Astros hit well against lefties, and with a healthy Yordan Alvarez back in the lineup, they should be more productive offensively this season.
Time: 8:10 p.m. ET
Where to watch: Apple TV
Dodgers at Diamondbacks: YRFI (-113)
These were two of the most productive offenses in the majors last year, with the Los Angeles Dodgers leading the NL in OPS (.768) and the Arizona Diamondbacks sitting third (.758).
L.A.’s murderers’ row has gotten even stronger after adding Kyle Tucker. Meanwhile, the top of the D-Backs’ lineup remains formidable with Corbin Carroll, Geraldo Perdomo, and Ketel Marte.
Arizona is starting Ryne Nelson, who posted a 3.93 xERA last year and ranked in the bottom fifth percentile in average exit velocity.
Time: 10:10 p.m. ET
Where to watch: MLB Network
What is a NRFI bet?
NRFI (No Run First Inning) and YRFI (Yes Run First Inning) bets add a thrilling twist to the start of an MLB game. A NRFI bet is a wager that no runs will be scored in the first inning. You're betting that the starting pitchers for both teams will get through the first inning without allowing any runs, whether by striking out batters, inducing ground balls, or through solid defensive play.
A YRFI bet is the exact opposite. You're betting that at least one run will be scored in the first inning. In this case, you’re hoping for an early offensive burst such as a leadoff walk, a timely hit, or even a home run.
NRFI and YRFI bets add excitement to the early part of a game and offer immediate gratification for bettors looking for a quick resolution.
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. 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.
The Boston Celtics host the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night in a game Boston needs to win to stay ahead of the New York Knicks for second place in the Eastern Conference. Here are three big questions entering the matchup.
Will Boston be emotionally ready for surging Atlanta?
The last two games Boston played came against Western Conference contenders were a tale of two cities. First, it was the Minnesota Timberwolves, where the Celtics lost 102-92. Then on Wednesday, Boston welcomed Oklahoma City Thunder to TD Garden and, in an emotional game that was close throughout, prevailed 119-109.
The key will be whether Boston can shift its focus from two of the West’s best to a fifth-place Hawks team that has won three in a row. Atlanta is coming off an overtime win over the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday, after beating the Memphis Grizzlies and Golden State Warriors.
Sometimes, the drop-off from high-profile games to a more routine conference matchup can open the door for an upset. Boston needs to stay sharp to protect home court and maintain its edge over New York who own the tiebreaker.
Who will step up if Jaylen Brown is unable to play
At the time of this writing, Jaylen Brown is questionable with left calf tightness. He’s appeared in 65 games this season and has carried a heavy load offensively, especially while Jayson Tatum was out.
If Brown is out, keep an eye on Payton Pritchard. He’s been a steady scoring option, though his last 20-point game came March 2 against the Milwaukee Bucks, when he dropped 25. With Tatum still finding rhythm and potentially no Brown, this sets up as a spot where Pritchard could take on a bigger offensive role.
That said, this is a game against his hometown team, so it wouldn’t be a shock if Brown ultimately suits up.
Who will guard Jalen Johnson?
The last time these teams met in Boston, the Celtics had no answer for Jalen Johnson, who led Atlanta to a 117-106 win. He finished with 19 points, 14 rebounds and seven assists, impacting the game on both ends.
Boston tried multiple looks defensively. Brown, Derrick White and Anfernee Simons all saw time on Johnson. Against smaller matchups, Johnson attacked the paint and used his 6-foot-8 frame effectively, while also knocking down 3 of 5 from deep. He’s shooting 34.9% from beyond the arc this season.
Atlanta may not have a clear No. 1 option, but it has a roster full of players who can heat up quickly. It’s a young, scrappy group, and if Boston doesn’t come out locked in, this could turn into a longer night than expected.
Michigan State and UConn should have a high-intensity feel driven by two of the top coaches and defenses remaining in the tournament. Friday's Sweet 16 game just might not be aesthetically pleasing.
According to KenPom, the UConn defense ranks 11th nationally in adjusted defensive efficiency and the Spartans rank 13th. And both offenses look to get into transition but will focus on frontcourt play in the halfcourt set, with the Huskies led by Tarris Reed Jr. and Alex Karaban and Michigan State centered on Jaxon Kohler, Carson Cooper and high-flying forward Coen Carr.
The Huskies are back in the Sweet 16 after winning back-to-back national titles in 2023, '24.
"I'm just excited," Huskies coach Dan Hurley said Thursday. "I feel like it's an honorable game for UConn, Michigan State. It's a great crazy Sweet 16 game. Excited to be in it."
How the Spartans react to another early deficit on their biggest stage of the season will be critical, and Jeremy Fears once again wills them back by halftime. But the Huskies’ interior depth and strength, particularly Tarris Reed’s physicality, gets Jaxon Kohler, Carson Cooper and Cam Ward into foul trouble and exploits MSU’s thin post rotation. Ultimately, Fears’ stellar performance isn’t enough, and the Spartans’ season ends short of last season’s Elite Eight trip.
The MSU team we saw at Purdue, at Michigan, against Louisville, that MSU team can beat this UConn team, without UConn having to play poorly. The question is, if both teams have a stellar day, who’s the better team? I think the answer is UConn, by a nose. Physically, this could be blood bath.
Blake Toppmeyer: Michigan State
Paul Myerberg: Michigan State
Jordan Mendoza: Michigan State
John Brice: Michigan State
Matt Glenesk: Michigan State
Craig Meyer: UConn
Austin Curtright: Michigan State
Ehsan Kassim: UConn
John Leuzzi: UConn
Moneyline: UConn (-130); Michigan State (+110)
Spread: UConn (-1.5)
Over/under total: 136.5
Silas Demary Jr injury update: Will UConn guard play vs Michigan State?
He was listed as questionable for UConn's second-round game, but ended up playing 21 minutes, scoring two points with four assists and no turnovers.
"I'm feeling a lot better the past couple days," Demary said Thursday. "A lot of rehab, a lot of treatment. Try to get me as close as I can back to 100%.
"I'd say I'm feeling a little bit better, doing everything I can. Still going to do stuff once we leave here, try to get even better. Feel like I'm in a better spot than I was last week. Trying to get back to 100% the best I can."
Why is Bill Murray at UConn vs Michigan State Sweet 16 game?
Murray's son Luke Murray is an associate head coach on the Huskies' coaching staff.
Luke Murray is in his fifth season on the UConn bench and was just named head coach at Boston College. Before taking the Huskies assistant job in 2021, he was an assistant at both Xavier and Louisville under Chris Mack. He is in his ninth season on Hurley's staff across three different stops.
Boston College hires Luke Murray as new head coach
Connecticut assistant Luke Murray has been hired as the new head coach at Boston College, the university announced on Thursday, March 26.
Murray is the son of actor Bill Murray, who has regularly been spotted sitting behind the bench at games for much of his son’s coaching career.
"Today marks a turning point in Boston College Men's Basketball," Boston College athletic director Blake James said in a statement. "In Luke Murray, we have found a leader who does not just understand the modern landscape of college basketball - he has helped define it. His role in building a national championship caliber program, his sophisticated offensive vision, and his relentless pursuit of excellence make him the perfect fit to lead our student-athletes. We are thrilled to welcome Luke, his wife, Kara, and their family to the BC community."
Is Jeremy Fears Jr a dirty player?
It really depends on who you ask and how you analyze Fears' game.
"I go out every game and I play hard. I don't intentionally try to hurt anyone,” Fears said after Michigan State's game at Minnesota back in February, according to the Detroit Free Press, part of the USA TODAY Network. "I go out and play every game like it's my last, because at one point it was my last. So I don't take a game for granted. I don't take a moment for granted. So I'm going to go out there and play as hard as I can every possession, every game.
"Like at one point, I had basketball taken away from me, so something I love to do, I couldn't do it for a whole year. So most people wouldn't understand that. And that's on them, I guess. At the end of the day, it doesn’t change who I am or what I do. I'm just go out there and play 150(%) no matter what."
Are Jeremy Fears Jr and Jeremiah Fears related?
Yes, the Michigan State point guard is the brother of now New Orleans Pelicans guard Jeremiah Fears, who was a one-and-done at Oklahoma. Jeremiah Fears was drafted by the Pelicans with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
There are 10 games left in the Nashville Predators' regular season, and six of them are on the road.
Hanging onto the second Wild Card spot by a point after Thursday's loss to the New Jersey Devils, there are a handful of teams waiting for the Predators to slip up and take over that coveted final spot.
While there's a maximum six-point gap between the Predators and the lowest-ranked team in the Wild Card race, these past weeks have proven that a few losses and wins here and there could change the entire landscape of this race.
These are five teams that are the biggest threat to the Predators' playoff hopes.
Los Angeles Kings
Dec 21, 2024; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators center Steven Stamkos (91) and Los Angeles Kings defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov (84) battle for the puck during the third period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Points: 76 PTS, 1 point behind Predators
Saturday opponent: vs. Utah Mammoth at 8 p.m. CST
The Kings have been a cheat code this season, taking advantage of the consolation point awarded during an overtime loss.
Los Angeles has lost 18 overtime games, tied for the NHL record for the most post-regulation losses in a single season. On the season, the Kings have one more regulation win than an overtime loss.
However, despite losing, the Kings have been able to ride various point streaks throughout the year. They're on a three-game point streak currently despite posting a 1-0-2 record. From Jan. 14 to Jan. 27, the Kings won just half their games, but rode a six-game point streak.
With LA on Nashville's heels and facing them twice in a four-day period (April 2 and 6 in LA), the Predators need to get it done in 60 minutes. This is the one team Nashville cannot give freebie points to.
The Predators met the Kings earlier this season, and, as expected, it was a 5-4 shootout win for Nashville.
They have a key home matchup on Saturday against the Utah Mammoth. A win and a Predators loss puts the Kings in the Wild Card spot, where a loss could allow Nashville to rebuild a three-point lead in the final playoff spot.
Seattle Kraken
Mar 10, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Nashville Predators defenseman Nicolas Hague (41) and Seattle Kraken forward Matty Beniers (10) battle for the puck during the second period at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
Points: 74 PTS, 3 points behind Predators
Saturday opponent: at Buffalo Sabres at 4:30 p.m. CST
The Kraken were the team that Nashville surpassed to take the Wild Card spot. Seattle had lost to Nashville twice in a nine-day period and then lost to Columbus, allowing the Predators to surpass it in points.
Things have been really rocky for the Kraken when they've needed to win, with a 4-7-1 record in March. That run included two four-game losing streaks.
While the Kraken have been able to stop the bleeding a bit on Thursday, picking up an overtime win against the Tampa Bay Lightning, they have one of the hardest schedules to close out the season.
It has Buffalo, Edmonton, Vegas, Colorado, Minnesota and Winnipeg all on the road, five teams that are divisional leaders and one that is battling for a Wild Card spot. In addition, they host Utah and Los Angeles, two games with valuable points on the line.
If Seattle doesn't turn things around, it will quickly be out of this playoff race.
Winnipeg Jets
Points: 72 PTS, 5 points behind Predators
Saturday opponent: at Colorado Avalanche at 6 p.m. CST
While five points may seem like a wide gap, Winnipeg has been surging as of late and has inserted itself back into the Wild Card race.
The Jets have gone 4-2-2 over their last eight, but have picked up 10 points in that run, which includes massive wins over Vegas and Colorado.
This week's stretch could make or break the Jets as they are on the road against Colorado, Dallas and Columbus. If they come out of these three games with even two wins, expect more chatter in Winnipeg down the stretch.
San Jose Sharks
Mar 24, 2026; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators goaltender Juuse Saros (74) blocks the shot of San Jose Sharks defenseman John Klingberg (3) during the second period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Points: 71 PTS, 6 points behind Predators
Saturday opponent: at Columbus Blue Jackets at 4 p.m. CST
The Sharks' playoff hopes are slipping fast as they've been passed by Nashville, Winnipeg and likely St. Louis in the standings over this past week.
They've lost six straight, which included a 6-3 thrashing by the Predators on Tuesday and a 2-1 overtime loss to the Blues on Thursday. Another loss to Columbus on Saturday could eliminate the Sharks from the playoffs.
San Jose could easily string some wins, or even just points, together and get back into this race, but the task becomes steeper and steeper. Over the next week, it will see Columbus, Anaheim and Nashville, all teams it's struggled against.
St. Louis Blues
Points: 71 PTS, 6 points behind Predators
Saturday opponent: vs. Toronto Maple Leafs at 6 p.m. CST
Same point total as the Sharks, but in a different position on the up and up.
The Blues have won five of their last seven and another win could start some playoff chatter around them. Two of those victories have been against divisional leaders in Carolina and Edmonton.
With Toronto and San Jose up next, and the Blues playing well, a pair of wins puts them possibly two points outside of the Wild Card spot. However, that's only if everyone in front of them loses.
Earlier this week, ESPN.com released a list covering the 10 best and 10 worst transactions since last offseason. To nobody’s surprise, the Dorian Finney-Smith signing was on the list coming in at number seven. So far this season, Finney-Smith is averaging just 3.2 points per game and has yet to score in double digits in any game.
At first the DFS signing seemed like a perfect deal for Houston, as he recently ended a season as one of the best role players in the NBA. His +14.2 on/off differential was third in the league behind only Nikola Jokic and Christian Braun on the Denver Nuggets. This is a big deal for a player who’s not a star. He looked to be the perfect wing for a team relying on star players like Kevin Durant. So what went wrong?
After undergoing ankle surgery in the offseason, Dorian Finney-Smith’s debut kept getting delayed. The whole process was really weird, as the Rocket’s front office nor head coach Ime Udoka gave many updates. Finally, on December 25, Dorian made his debut for the Rockets. At that point, the season was about a third of the way through, as Houston had played 34 percent of their games. Additonally, Dorian likely missed out on a full training camp and pre-season with the roster due to limited mobility after surgery. It is important to note that usually, when it comes to role players, their rhythm matters more than anything.
Perhaps what is the most frustrating aspect of everything is that Houston needed a player like Dorian Finney-Smith. They thought they were finding somewhat of a replacement for Dillon Brooks, but instead, the Rockets have had to put more stress on other players, such as Amen Thompson and Kevin Durant.
Reading everything so far, it seems like the situation is hopeless, but thankfully, that is not the case. Ime Udoka, the coach of the Rockets, is obviously attempting to integrate him before the postseason, even though the output is still lacking. Additonally, with Finney-Smith’s contract being a multi-year deal, there’s a possibility that next season could be better for him, as he will be coming into the year fully healthy.
Dorian Finney-Smith and the Rockets look to get back on track tonight as they face the Memphis Grizzlies at 7:00pm CST in Memphis. You can catch the game on Space City Houston, and as always, be sure to check back at The Dream Shake for pre and post-game content.
Alabama guard Aden Holloway, who was arrested on felony drug charges, was granted permission by a judge to leave the state on Friday as his team prepares to face Michigan in the Sweet 16 in Chicago.
The Crimson Tide say “nothing has changed with regard to Aden’s status with the team." Alabama listed Holloway as out on the availability report given to the NCAA on Thursday. That report is allowed to be amended up to two hours before the game.
The university removed him from campus last week “pending further investigation by the UA Office of Student Conduct.”
Holloway, Alabama’s No. 2 scorer, was arrested March 16 after authorities found 2.1 pounds of marijuana in his apartment. He was suspended indefinitely following the arrest, but coach Nate Oats has not ruled out the possibility of his return in the NCAA Tournament.
Holloway's attorney, Jason Neff, had requested his client be allowed to travel “on a trip out of the state" — without specifying where — departing Friday and returning Tuesday. Tuscaloosa County District Court Judge Joanne Jannik approved that travel Friday morning, according to court documents.
If Alabama were to win Friday night, it would play in the Elite Eight on Sunday.
Holloway's sister, Mila Holloway, is set to play for Michigan in the women's Sweet 16 on Sunday in Fort Worth, Texas, and could be playing in an Elite Eight game there on Monday.
Among the charges Aden Holloway faces is a count of first-degree marijuana possession, not for personal use, which is a Class C felony and carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $15,000. The amount of marijuana authorities said they found was just below the 2.2-pound threshold for a drug trafficking charge.
Neff has said there is no proof his client was selling the drugs.
As NBA MVP debates continue to intensify, the heavy favorite, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, is slipping.
Both Victor Wembanyama and Luka Doncic have made up substantial ground on Gilgeous-Alexander, who seemed like a shoo-in to win the award.
Key Takeaways
Gilgeous-Alexander had been shorter than -1000.
Wembanyama recently shared three reasons why he felt he was the MVP of the league.
Doncic averaged nearly 40 points per game over the last three weeks.
Player
DraftKings
Caesars
bet365
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
-500
-550
-550
Victor Wembanyama
+500
+550
+500
Luka Doncic
+1200
+1100
+1200
Nikola Jokic
+6000
+4000
+5000
Jaylen Brown
+15000
+15000
+15000
Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP, is still a sizable favorite to win the league’s most prestigious individual award. However, after being shorter than -1000 at top online sportsbooks, his NBA MVP odds have dropped to as low as -500 (83.3% implied chance) at DraftKings.
As SGA’s odds have declined, both Wembanyama and Doncic have experienced jolts in their odds to win the MVP.
Wembanyama could become the youngest MVP winner if he earns the confidence of the voters, assuming the mantle currently held by former Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose (22 years and 191 days old). He recently said that “it is still reasonable that there is a debate” as to who deserves the honor, before listing three reasons why he felt that he deserved it over his peers:
He is the most impactful defensive player in the league
The Spurs won four of five matchups against the Oklahoma City Thunder
With odds as short as +500, Wembanyama has at best an implied 16.7% chance—still a long way to go to catch the lead dog.
Doncic, the NBA’s leading scorer, finds his shortest odds at Caesars at +1100 (8.3% chance). While he was always among the top 10 candidates for the award, he never made substantial headway until recently.
The Los Angeles Lakers are in the middle of an excellent stretch that caused them to rise from +8000 to +3000 in FanDuel’s NBA Finals odds just over the past couple of weeks. Their Slovenian superstar also played at an extraordinarily high level during that time, averaging 39.5 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.3 assists on 48% shooting over his last 11 games, eight of those coming against projected playoff teams.
Luka Doncic is the first player to average 40 points over a six-game span — all on the road — since MJ in 1986 😳
While both Wembanyama and Doncic are making the MVP race a compelling storyline over the final weeks of the season, Gilgeous-Alexander is not going out of his way to lose the award.
Since returning from a right abdominal strain at the end of November, last year’s Finals MVP averaged 30.3 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.3 rebounds on 57.2% shooting in 12 games, 11 of those being wins. The Thunder also have the best record in the NBA, leading the Spurs by two games and the Lakers by 10 in the race for the first seed in the Western Conference.
Victor Wembanyama: 24.2 points, 11.2 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 3.1 blocks, 1.1 steals, 50.5% FG, 35.1% 3PT, +16.9 on/off net rating
Luka Doncic: 33.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.3 assists, 1.6 steals, 47.4% FG, 36.4% 3PT, +5.0 on/off net rating
A team's regular-season record has been an important part of determining the MVP in years past. That could spell trouble for Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder, who finish the year with a tough run of games.
OKC will face off against the New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, Lakers (twice), Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets, and Phoenix Suns between now and their final game on April 12. Tankathon ranks that as the second-toughest remaining schedule, while the Spurs are only 20th, and the Lakers 22nd.
The head-to-head matchups between the Lakers and Thunder could also give Doncic a platform to vault in MVP odds if he puts together great performances and helps his team take down the conference leaders.
Sportsbooks get it wrong?
Sportsbook odds are not always perfect, but they are usually indicative of what is going to happen. However, there have been notable exceptions.
One recent case of sportsbooks getting their award odds completely wrong came in 2023.
Buffalo Bills safety, Damar Hamlin, who went into cardiac arrest during a game, was an enormous favorite to win the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award. He ended up losing it to then 39-year-old Joe Flacco, who only played in five games for the Cleveland Browns.
The Thunder, Spurs, and Lakers all have exactly nine games left in their regular seasons. The Thunder and Lakers will be in action on Friday night, and the Spurs will kick off the Saturday afternoon slate.
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