LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 11: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers dribbles the ball during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round Two Game Four of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on May 11, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
This is an odd summer for LeBron James. For the first time in his Lakers tenure, he doesn’t have a contract heading into the offseason.
So now, negotiations have to begin between the Lakers and LeBron to see if he wants to return and at what number makes sense for both sides.
Apparently, LeBron is a fan of the negotiation tactic of allowing the other side to speak first.
“The LeBron side, from what I am told, would like the Lakers to come and say, ‘LeBron, here’s our plan for you. Here’s what we’re offering.’ And if they’re offering less than the max, here’s why: ‘Because we’re going to use this cap space to sign these players, and this is where you slot in.’”
This has always been LeBron’s mindset when it comes to taking a pay cut. He did it for Miami when he was part of that Big Three and he was reportedly willing to take a pay cut for the Lakers a couple of years back when they were pursuing players such as Klay Thompson.
In that scenario, back in 2024, the Lakers didn’t land another star player, but James still took a slight pay cut so they could avoid being a second apron team.
LeBron won’t just take a discount to help the Lakers or any other team out. It has to make basketball sense for both parties.
When the time is right, Lakers President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka has to pick up the phone and share his master plan with James’ representation. During that conversation, he has to convince them that the best move for James is to stay with Los Angeles and try to win it all here before he calls it quits.
That’s a good place for the Lakers to be, so we’ll see if the front office can bring back LeBron and add to the roster to give it a better chance of coming out of the West next year.
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - MAY 24: Andrew McCutchen #4 of the Texas Rangers looks on after striking out during the third inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on May 24, 2026 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Texas Rangers have signed infielder Nicky Lopez to a one year deal, the team announced today. To make room for Lopez on the active roster, the Rangers have designated outfielder/DH Andrew McCutchen for assignment.
I’m really baffled by this move. McCutchen hasn’t hit well this season, slashing .192/.277/.260, including a .186/.300/.302 line against lefthanded pitching, which is especially problematic, given that McCutchen was brought in to be Joc Pederson’s platoon partner.
But Nicky Lopez doesn’t seem to really make the team better. Lopez is a light-hitting utility infielder who had a 4.4 bWAR season back in 2021, and since then has slashed .228/.298/.281 in 1220 plate appearances. He’s also a lefthanded hitter, which means that he doesn’t really replace McCutchen. Lopez was originally with the Rockies to start the season, slashing .333/.387/.519 for their AAA club at Albuquerque before being acquired by the Cubs. Lopez appeared in four games and had five plate appearances for the Cubs, and was released yesterday.
This would seem to open the door for Justin Foscue, who can play second base but who is best suited to 1B or DH, to take over the platoon DH spot from McCutchen. Lopez gives the Rangers an actual utility infielder, something that became an issue when Josh Jung was out and Michael Helman had to play shortstop. This leads me to wonder if there are concerns about Corey Seager or Josh Smith missing more time than has been anticipated.
Heading into the 2026 offseason, the Philadelphia Flyers are equipped with a ton of draft capital and assets, with various paths to explore to make good use of them.
And, although they just made the playoffs, it might be wise to continue to invest via the NHL draft.
As things currently stand, the Flyers won't be able to make too much happen with the No. 21 overall pick they own, but they could package that to acquire something greater, whether it be a player or another draft pick higher in the order.
If the Flyers opt to go for the latter, they won't have to look much further than the Chicago Blackhawks, who are picking fourth overall in the 2026 draft.
Despite landing young talents like Anton Frondell, Connor Bedard, Artyom Levshunov, Spencer Knight, and Frank Nazar, the Blackhawks remain in the NHL's doldrums, mired in mediocrity.
According to NHL insider David Pagnotta via the "Morning Cuppa Hockey" show, the Blackhawks would consider parting ways with that No. 4 pick if it brought them a young player who can contribute now and comes with team control.
Now, the Flyers wouldn't offer Matvei Michkov or Porter Martone for an unknown commodity draft pick that, like a car, becomes less valuable as soon as it is used.
They can however, take from their glut of wingers and defensemen to help make a useful trade package by means of diminishing returns, helping the Blackhawks put a more competent supporting cast around Bedard.
That might have to come at the cost of Tyson Foerster and/or Owen Tippett, the Flyers' own first-round pick, and someone like Emil Andrae or Oliver Bonk.
Those are the talents and ages that Chicago will need to make such a trade worthwhile from their perspective.
As for the Flyers, trading for the No. 4 pick would certainly come with its benefits.
Assuming Gavin McKenna, Chase Reid, and Caleb Malhotra are the first three players off the board, the Flyers can ease the losses of Foerster and/or Tippett with the selection of Swedish starlet Ivar Stenberg, who has a real case to go No. 1 ahead of McKenna.
Or, if the Flyers opt to go off the board a bit, they can get their top-six center in Tynan Lawrence or Viggo Bjorck, or get a blue-chip defenseman like Carson Carels, Alberts Smits, or Keaton Verhoeff.
They aren't NHL-proven talents, to be clear, but they are the high-end talents the Flyers are looking for and crave with a reasonable path to getting them.
Stenberg is the obvious cream of the crop among all those alternative names, and the Flyers having a long-term core of Stenberg, Martone, and Michkov on the wings would be absurd, to say the least.
KANSAS CITY, MO - MAY 20: Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Connelly Early (71) pitches in the first inning during a MLB game between the Boston Red Sox and the Kansas City Royals on May 20, 2026, at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, MO. (Photo by Keith Gillett/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
TV: NESN
First Pitch: 6:45 p.m. ET
The Red Sox nearly came back from a three-run deficit in the series opener against the Braves. The offense has finally put together a few solid performances as of late, though there haven’t been plenty of wins to show for it.
Boston will try to get early run support for Connelly Early, who has allowed no more than three earned runs in each of his last three starts.
Here’s who the Red Sox will send to the plate Wednesday night.
Atlanta counters with a notable challenge in Bryce Elder. The righty has been virtually untouchable through two months to the tune of a 1.97 ERA as the Braves try to take the series.
Not only have the Detroit Red Wings featured some of the greatest NHL talents to have ever hit the ice throughout their history, but some of the toughest.
During his heyday, the legendary Gordie Howe was not only one of the most skilled players, but also one of the hardest-nosed and physically imposing presences on the ice, who was never shy about clearing his way through opponents.
Of course, the Red Wings also featured the iconic "Bruise Brothers" duo of Bob Probert and Joey Kocur. Additionally, Stu Grimson spent a portion of his NHL career in Detroit.
Known as one of the fiercest fighters in NHL history, the late Probert skated in over 900 NHL games between the Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks, racking up over 3,000 penalty minutes.
Grimson, who fought Probert multiple times, recently recounted a story of their on-ice bouts that always made for must-see action for the fans.
"I fought Probie...we fought 14 times over the course of our careers," Grimson said while on the Ice Guardians Podcast. "Like, there was nobody I fought more than Probie. The same is true of him, God rest his soul. Probie was a handful, he was a good fighter. He didn't hit like some of the other guys did."
Grimson played a total of 68 games with the Red Wings, during which he racked up 165 penalty minutes.
In 729 career games, Grimson accumulated 2,113 penalty minutes, a large portion of which came from fighting majors.
While the role of players who are mostly deployed as "enforcers" has been phased out of the game, fans who watched the respective careers of the late Probert as well as Grimson look back upon those memories fondly.
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WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump is planning to get an up-close look at the hottest team in basketball.
Trump told reporters on Wednesday that New York Knicks owner James Dolan has invited him to the NBA Finals, when the Eastern Conference champion Knicks host either the Oklahoma City Thunder or the San Antonio Spurs next month at Madison Square Garden.
New York, which is riding an 11-game postseason winning streak after sweeping the Cleveland Cavaliers in the conference finals, is scheduled to host Game 3 on June 8 and Game 4 on June 10.
Trump, a New York native, said he initially planned to attend Game 5 of the conference finals at MSG before the Knicks finished off the Cavaliers in four games. The president called Dolan a “great guy” and marveled at New York's run.
“Boy, what a team,” Trump said. “They have some really great players.”
Trump called the club's return to the finals for the first time since 1999 “great to see.”
“The Knicks have really suffered for years," Trump said to laughter. “They're doing (well) right now.”
Outside Madison Square Garden Knicks fans celebrate winning game 4 of the Eastern conference finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The Knicks are looking out for their fans.
They are donating hundreds of free tickets to underprivileged youth for their home games in the Finals, The Post has learned. Underserved New York families affiliated with the Garden of Dreams Foundation will receive 250 tickets per home game.
That means a guaranteed 500 tickets across Games 3 and 4. If there is a Game 6, that number will rise to 750.
Outside Madison Square Garden Knicks fans celebrate winning game 4 of the Eastern conference finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Aristide Economopoulos for NY Post
“We are proud to create meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for underprivileged youth in our local communities,” said Rich Constable, the executive vice president and global head of government affairs and social impact at MSG Entertainment. “Making sure underserved youth are part of the Knicks Finals run is extremely important to the Knicks, ensuring the next generation of fans gets to be part of the story.”
The giveaway comes as ticket prices skyrocket on secondary markets for the Knicks’ first Finals appearance since 1999. But the Knicks want to make sure this historic moment can be appreciated by everyone.
The Garden of Dreams Foundation, since 2006, has impacted the lives of over 480,000 young people facing obstacles.
After completing their overpowering sweep of the Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference finals, the Knicks carry a historic 11-game winning streak into the Finals. They’ve outscored their opponents by a combined 262 points in that stretch — the best point differential across 11 games in NBA history, regardless of regular season or postseason.
“The buzz is unbelievable,” Landry Shamet said. “You could try and explain what’s going on in New York right now for Knicks fans but good luck. It’s different. Knicks fans are different.”
Milwaukee Brewers center fielder Garrett Mitchell (5) prepares to dump water over Milwaukee Brewers designated hitter Christian Yelich (22) after their win over St. Louis Cardinals on Wednesday May 27, 2026 at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. | Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Despite being no-hit through seven innings, Milwaukee’s pitching staff kept the game within reach long enough for the offense to scrape together just enough support. With today’s 2-1 victory, the Brewers secured their first home sweep of the Cardinals since 2011 and widened their NL Central lead to 4.5 games.
Starter Chad Patrick worked around a couple of jams over the first three innings before finally allowing the game’s first run in the fourth. It initially looked like he might escape the inning unscathed after a Jordan Walker leadoff single, as Patrick responded by striking out Nolan Gorman and Masyn Winn back-to-back.
Patrick then worked a full count against Bryan Torres, but his payoff pitch — a 90 mph slider that hung over the heart of the plate — got punished. Torres ripped a line drive into the corner for an RBI triple, giving the Cardinals a 1-0 lead.
Despite having only thrown 61 pitches, Patrick — who’s been coming out of the bullpen since the beginning of the month — was done for the day. Shane Drohan and Aaron Ashby followed with two shutout innings each, both pitchers allowing only a single hit. The pitching staff showed up today, keeping the score close even though the offense couldn’t manage to provide any run support through the first seven innings.
Not only were the Brewers shut out for most of the game, but Cardinals starter Dustin May was absolutely dominating. May had a no-hitter going through six with zero walks, although the Brewers managed two baserunners on a Jake Bauers hit-by-pitch and a Sal Frelick catchers’ interference.
May kept his bid alive in the seventh by retiring the heart of the Brewers’ order — Brice Turang, William Contreras, and Bauers. Finally, Garrett Mitchell led off the eighth by busting up the no-hitter on a line drive to left field. Torres took a bit of a flat route and the ball flew over his head for a double, giving Milwaukee their first runner in scoring position all game.
Up next was Luis Rengifo, who laid down a beautifully-placed bunt to the third-base side of the mound. The bunt was good enough that he might have beat it out anyway, but neither May nor third baseman Nolan Gorman charged in on the ball. By the time catcher Pedro Pagés got to it, Rengifo and Mitchell were already standing on the corners.
With the no-hitter no longer in play, Cardinals manager Oli Marmol pulled May for JoJo Romero, who got Frelick to ground into a fielders’ choice at second that couldn’t get Mitchell home. Andrew Vaughn pinch-hit for David Hamilton, but he struck out for the second out.
It briefly appeared as if the Cardinals might escape the jam, but veteran star Christian Yelich wouldn’t let that happen. Yelich took two balls that weren’t really close, then grounded Romero’s third pitch up the middle to tie the game.
Frelick, running on contact with two outs, made it around to third, and all of a sudden the Brewers had the go-ahead run on third base for Jackson Chourio. Chourio swung at the first pitch, a low sinker, and hit what was a pretty routine grounder to Winn at shortstop. Winn, who won a Gold Glove last year after a season in which he was credited with just three errors, bobbled the ball on the exchange. By the time he picked it up, not only were both Yelich and Chourio safe, but Frelick had crossed the plate with the go-ahead run.
— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) May 27, 2026
Turang grounded out to end the inning, but the damage was done — Milwaukee led by a run going into the top of the ninth. Trevor Megill came in for the ninth to try and pick up his first save since May 15th in Minnesota. Despite allowing a single to Winn, who stole second and advanced to third on a fly-out, Megill stuck out pinch-hitter Yohel Pozo to end the game.
While things looked pretty bleak for the vast majority of this game, Milwaukee was able to keep the game close and string together a couple hits when it mattered. Sometimes pitchers are just on, and even if that’s not the case the offense won’t always be firing on all cylinders. Good teams lose these games, but great teams grit their teeth and find a way to keep the game close and scrape out a victory. That’s what the Brewers did tonight.
Also, for those of you on Aaron Ashby Win Watch, Ashby pitched the seventh and eighth innings, so he picked up another win. He now leads the league in wins again, with nine. It’s still May.
After a 4-2 homestand, the Brewers will get a well-earned day off before heading to Houston for a weekend series against the Astros. First pitch for Friday’s series opener is scheduled for 7:10 p.m.
From LeBron James' perspective, the ball is in the Lakers' court.
LeBron may be vacationing with family and talking about not making a decision on what is next for him until July or August, but the reality is he is no longer the player the entire market will wait for. He is not the first domino to fall (that's Giannis Antetokounmpo). Instead, he and the Lakers need to work out whatever is going on between them before the NBA Draft in less than a month (June 23), so both sides can plan and make their next moves. Free agency moves fast now and, unless LeBron wants to play for the minimum, he doesn't get to watch the market play out and then make a call.
For LeBron, that all starts with the Lakers coming to him with an offer — and he wants to start talking max deal, reports ESPN's Brian Windhorst on The Hoop Collective podcast.
"The Lebron side, from what I am told, is would like the Lakers to come and say, 'Lebron, here's our plan for you,' or 'here's what we were offering,' and if they're offering less than the max, here's why. Because we're going to use this cap space to sign these players, and this is where you slide in."
Max is where LeBron will start negotiations, what he feels he has earned (and in terms of the revenue he drives for a team, he's not wrong). Good luck finding anyone around the league who thinks that's his salary next season. The real question is how big a pay cut he is willing to take, because — as he showed in the playoffs — he still brings real value on the court, too. Does he demand $30 million? The non-taxpayer mid-level exception of $15 million? The taxpayer mid-level exception of $6 million? Less?
Windhorst is also very clear that this conversation between the Lakers and LeBron has to happen early in the summer, like before the draft. The Lakers have made it clear that they want to retool their roster around Luka Doncic and his skill set, which includes re-signing Austin Reaves. To do that remake, the Lakers want to use their estimated $50 million in cap space — but that cap space depends on LeBron not being on the roster. He has a $59.5 million cap hold, which is a little more than the max that is supposed to be around $58 million for him for one season.
The Lakers need to either reach a deal with LeBron to know how much cap space they have, or tell LeBron they are going to renounce his rights so they can spend all that money on other players.
If LeBron wants to play somewhere else — Cleveland, Golden State or any other team that might interest him — for more than the $3.9 million veteran minimum, he and his management need to work with the Lakers to find a sign-and-trade that works for everyone. Again, this is stuff that has to be agreed to, and the process started before the draft because by July 1, when free agency officially opens, most teams have two-thirds of their free-agent signings and trades already agreed to (if not public).
All of that starts with LeBron and the Lakers sitting down and having an honest conversation about what's next. And LeBron believes that the ball is in the Lakers' court.
Sometimes, star players are fouled intentionally to send a message.
It is rare, though, that the same treatment is given to a role player,
Toward the end of the Thunder’s 127-114 home win over the Spurs in Game 5 on Tuesday, Oklahoma City role player Jared McCain was fouled twice in quick succession — including a vicious elbow to the back from Mason Plumlee that knocked him to the floor.
Wemby ordered the CODE RED
He whispers something to Mason Plumlee and Bismack Biyombo as they check in during garbage time.
Those fouls in the last two minutes have raised some eyes, especially since the two Spurs that committed the infractions — Plumlee and Bismack Biyombo — received whispered instructions from San Antonio superstar Victor Wembanyama while he exited the floor with his team trailing by 14 with 2:20 remaining.
McCain said he was surprised by the fouls and, while at the free throw line, asked for an explanation of the harsh treatment.
“That was crazy. I didn’t expect it, obviously,” McCain explained on “The Association” following his 20-point effort after being bumped into the starting lineup.
“We were at the free throw line too, and I was like, ‘Why’d you do that man,’ and he was like, ‘I got another one for you too.’ … Wasn’t aware, my team told me after, get to the corner at the end of games.”
The first foul happened with 1:39 remaining in regulation when McCain set a pick and Plumlee ran right through him, resulting in a foul that led to McCain hitting one of two free throw attempts.
Fifty-three seconds later, Biyombo committed a hard foul when McCain drove to the basket.
Mason Plumlee drives his elbow into Jared McCain’s back. @HaterReport/X
NBC Analyst Reggie Miller pointed out that leaving McCain on the court in a game that all but had been decided was not a good idea after seeing the two fouls.
“See, these are two shots to McCain in here in the starting lineup in the closing moments of this game. Miller said, “He doesn’t need to be on the floor here.”
While these fouls could be explained as bad luck for the Thunder guard, a viral video from Tuesday night has some wondering about the intent.
Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama whispering to teammate Bismack Biyombo @BrickCenter_/X
Wembanyama gave both Plumlee and Biymobo quick remarks, and then moments later they committed hard fouls on one of the Thunder’s starters.
This has led to some unfounded speculation that Wembanyama may have given some nefarious orders due to the nature of the fouls and the time left in the game.
Jared McCain reactsTuesday night in Game 5. AP Photo/Gerald Leong
This chippy ending of the game could add fuel to an already competitive series that could end Thursday in Game 6 with the Thunder holding the 3-2 advantage.
BOSTON, MA - APRIL 28: The sneakers worn by Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers during Round One Game Five of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 28, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The surging Los Angeles Dodgers, who have won 11 of their last 13 games, go for the sweep of the visiting Colorado Rockies tonight.
With Cy Young-minded Shohei Ohtani taking the mound, my Rockies vs. Dodgers predictions see the Boys in Blue rolling to a comfortable victory.
See my full analysis, Over/Under prediction, and MLB picks for Wednesday, May 27.
Who will win Rockies vs Dodgers today: Dodgers -2.5 (-102)
Tomoyuki Sugano’s 3.86 ERA looks fine on the surface, but his “underlying metrics” are more like an “unmitigated disaster”.
His 7.43 xERA indicates immediate regression. That’s understandable since he ranks in the first percentile in barrel rate and xBA.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are the perfect opponent to make him pay, given their league-leading .265 xBA.
On the other side of things, Shohei Ohtani (0.73 ERA) hasn’t allowed more than two earned runs in a start and should hold down a poor Colorado Rockies lineup.
COVERS INTEL: Tomoyuki Sigano’s 80 Stuff+ ranks dead last among starters who have thrown at least 10 innings and pales in comparison to Shohei Ohtani’s 115 Stuff+.
Rockies vs Dodgers Over/Under pick: Under 8.5 (-120)
Colorado has a measly 67 wRC+ against right-handed pitching in the last 20 days. It’s difficult to envision them crossing the plate many times against Ohtani, who suppresses hard contact (92nd percentile barrel rate) and has a masterful 21.6% K-BB%.
The Dodgers have hit the Under in seven of Ohtani’s eight starts.
That’s partly due to his utter dominance on the mound, and partly because manager Dave Roberts has opted to take him out of the lineup when he pitches. That’s likely the case after he was beaned in the hand on Tuesday.
JD Yonke's 2026 Transparency Record
ML/RL bets: 15-17, -8.53 units
Over/Under bets: 25-9, +15.54 units
Rockies vs Dodgers odds
Moneyline: Rockies +325 | Dodgers -425
Run line: Rockies (-115) | Dodgers -2.5 (-102)
Over/Under: Over 8 (-105) | Under 8 (-115)
Rockies vs Dodgers trend
The Dodgers have covered the run line in 10 of their last 13 games. Find more MLB betting trends for Rockies vs. Dodgers.
How to watch Rockies vs Dodgers and game info
Location
Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, CA
Date
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
First pitch
10:10 p.m. ET
TV
Rockies.TV, SportsNet LA
Rockies starting pitcher
Tomoyuki Sugano (4-3, 3.86 ERA)
Dodgers starting pitcher
Shohei Ohtani (4-2, 0.74 ERA)
Rockies vs Dodgers latest injuries
Rockies vs Dodgers weather
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.
ENOUGH ALREADY: The Cubs are just the 20th team since 1901 to have double-digit winning and losing streaks in the same season. The Guardians were the previous club to do it, winning and losing 10 last season. The 2017 Dodgers, with 11 and 11, and 2008 Guardians, with 10 and 10, were the only other teams since 2000. The Cubs had done it once before, winning 10 and losing 12 in 1970. Their winning streak came before their losing streak, as it did this year. The Dodgers’ wins also came first. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
ALMOST ALWAYS BEHIND DURING THE STREAK: In their 10 losses, the Cubs scored first in only one, the second of the streak, on the South Side against the White Sox on May 17. They gave up the first run in the first inning of six games, the second inning of three and the third inning of one. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
TOO MANY HITS: The 15 hits allowed by the Cubs last night tied for their most this season. They gave up 15 on April 13, when they lost at Philadelphia, 13-7. The next night, they began the first of their two 10-game winning streaks. The Cubs are 4-12 when they have given up at least 10 hits, including 1-8 with at least 12. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
Jameson Taillon had another rough outing last Friday against the Astros, though he allowed only one home run instead of five. So, progress?
The Pirates hit him hard at Wrigley Field April 12, including three home runs, though he did strike out 10.
Last year Jamo threw six shutout innings against the Pirates Sept. 15 at PNC Park. So, how about another one like that?
Bubba Chandler had a pretty good start to his 2026, but recently has begun to get hit hard. Over his last six starts: 6.00 ERA, 1.593 WHIP. The key for the Cubs might be his walks: Chandler leads MLB with 34 walks in 47 innings. Overall that’s a 16 percent walk rate, which is pretty high.
Be patient hitters tonight, Cubs. As you can see by the chart below, Chandler throws hard, but he doesn’t always know where the ball is going.
Please visit our SB Nation Pirates site Bucs Dugout. If you do go there to interact with Pirates fans, please be respectful, abide by their individual site rules and serve as a good representation of Cub fans in general and BCB in particular.
The 2026 game discussion procedure has been changed, so please take note.
You’ll find the game preview, like this one, posted separately on the front page two hours before game time (90 minutes for some early day games following night games).
At the same time, a StoryStream containing the preview will also post on the front page, titled “Cubs vs. (Team) (Day of week/date) game threads.” It will contain every post related to that particular game.
The Live! (formerly “First Pitch”) thread will still post at five minutes to game time. It will also post to the front page. That will be the only live game discussion thread. After the game, the recap and Heroes and Goats will also live on the front page as separate posts.
You will also be able to find the preview, Live! thread, recap and Heroes and Goats in this section link. The StoryStream for each game can also be found in that section.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are set to interview Anaheim Ducks assistant coach Jay Woodcroft this week, according to hockey insider Frank Seravalli.
The 49-year-old Toronto native, also interviewed with the Los Angeles Kings last week, according to Seravalli, who says Woodcroft is “one of the front runners” for the Toronto job, positioning him as a strong candidate to return to an NHL head coaching role next season.
Toronto’s head coaching vacancy, opened after the abrupt dismissal of Craig Berube following a disappointing season and has already drawn significant interest across the hockey world. With new general manager John Chayka and senior executive advisor Mats Sundin at the helm, the organization is conducting a “wide and deep” search, according to Chayka.
This development comes as the Leafs' search process remains in its early-to-mid stages. Seravalli noted a broad field of up to 20 interviewees with varying levels of experience, with most conversations currently taking place via Zoom. The organization plans to regroup around the NHL Draft Combine next week in Buffalo before shifting focus to in-person interviews with a select group of finalists the following week.
For Woodcroft, the opportunity represents a homecoming of sorts. Born and raised in Toronto, the former University of Alabama-Huntsville player has deep roots in the city. His potential return as head coach of the Maple Leafs would carry both sentimental value and professional intrigue, especially given the high-pressure environment that defines one of the NHL's marquee franchises.
A Proven Track Record Built Through the Ranks
Woodcroft’s coaching journey is one of steady progression and notable achievements. He broke into the NHL coaching ranks as a video coach with the Detroit Red Wings in 2005, contributing to their 2008 Stanley Cup victory. He then spent seven seasons (2008-15) as an assistant coach with the San Jose Sharks under Todd McLellan, helping guide the team to back-to-back Western Conference Finals appearances in 2010 and 2011.
#Leafs coaching search update, per sources: - #FlyTogether Jay Woodcroft scheduled to interview this week. Interviewed with #LAKings last week. Handicapped as “one of the front runners” for the Toronto job. Either spot, solid bet to be an NHL HC again next season. - Wide swath of…
After rejoining McLellan with the Edmonton Oilers as an assistant coach from 2015-18, Woodcroft took over as head coach of the organization’s AHL affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors, in 2018. Over four-plus seasons, he compiled a strong 105-71-21 record, securing two Pacific Division titles and developing numerous players who graduated to the NHL.
His big break at the NHL level came in February 2022 when he was promoted to interim head coach of the Oilers midway through the season. Woodcroft quickly stabilized a struggling Edmonton squad, leading them to a 38-26-9 record in 73 games and a playoff run that reached the Western Conference Final. The following full season (2022-23), he guided the Oilers to a franchise-best 50-23-9 record (109 points), setting an NHL record with a 32.4% power-play efficiency. The team was eliminated in the second round of the playoffs.
Overall, Woodcroft's NHL head coaching record stands at 79-41-13 (.643 points percentage) across 133 regular-season games, with a 14-14 playoff record. These numbers reflect a coach capable of maximizing star talent like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, while implementing structured defensive play and special teams excellence.
However, his tenure in Edmonton ended on a sour note. After a 3-9-1 start to the 2023-24 season, Woodcroft was fired in November 2023 where under new a new head coach, the Oilers advanced to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals.
What makes Woodcroft an appealing candidate for the Maple Leafs? Several factors stand out. First, his experience turning around a high-skill, underachieving team in Edmonton mirrors the challenges Toronto has faced in recent years. The Leafs boast elite offensive talent in Auston Matthews and William Nylander, but have struggled with consistency, defensive structure, and postseason success beyond the first round.
Woodcroft's emphasis on player development, detailed systems, and special teams could address these gaps. His track record with the Condors demonstrates an ability to nurture young talent, which could prove valuable as Toronto potentially integrates prospects. Being a Toronto native might also help him navigate the intense media scrutiny and fan expectations that come with the job.
Woodcroft's chances appear solid but not guaranteed. As a "front runner", he likely sits among a small group of top contenders. His recent interview with the Kings shows he's in demand, and his availability as an assistant (rather than a sitting head coach) gives Toronto flexibility. However, the final decision will hinge on interviews, cultural fit, and alignment with the new front office's vision for a fresh start.
The pressure in Toronto is immense. The Leafs have not advanced past the second round since 2004 and are coming off a season that saw them finish last in the Atlantic Division under Berube. Chayka’s regime, bolstered by Sundin’s hockey acumen, needs a coach who can command respect in the room, implement a sustainable identity, and deliver results in a win-now environment.
What Lies Ahead
As the process moves toward in-person interviews, all eyes will be on how Woodcroft presents his vision. For Leafs fans, the idea of a hometown coach with proven NHL success offers hope after years of playoff disappointment. Yet hockey history is littered with promising candidates who didn't quite fit the unique puzzle of coaching in Toronto.
Woodcroft has already proven he can win at the NHL level and develop players. Whether he becomes the 33rd head coach in Maple Leafs history remains to be seen. The coming weeks will be telling as Chayka and company aim to find the right voice to lead a franchise hungry for sustained success.
PEORIA, ARIZONA - MARCH 11, 2026: Aaron Walton #11 of the Cleveland Guardians prepares to bat during a minor league spring training game against the Seattle Mariners at Peoria Stadium on March 11, 2026 in Peoria, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Bernacchi/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images
Welcome back to my annual, unrequested article for Covering the Corner. Below are parts 3 and 4 of my mid-May roster review for the Lake County Captains. I’m also going to organize this mess into a list for reference. I hope that you get some value out of this thought exercise, and that my perspective gives you something to consider. Maybe you’ll find a future favorite player in the weeds here, or a new least-favorite prospect evaluator.
On we go:
The Infield: Class of 2025 on the Left Side
NOTE: All the infielders on this team throw right-handed.
Dean Curley, SS/2B/3B: 6’4”, 230, Bats R, DoB 4/15/2004 (22 yrs. old), Tennessee (CB-A pick, 2025 Draft).
Dean Curley looks like the prototype. He is strong, fast, and light on his feet. His plate patience and discipline has led to many, many walks. Already, it is clear he needs to see better pitchers to determine if his patience is merely passiveness. When he does swing, Curley makes good contact, and he possesses power to all fields. He can identify and attack mistakes in the zone, and he can get to fastballs of any velocity. However, he does swing and miss in the zone a bit more than you would like. Additionally, I have his defense as a present 50, but Curley is prone to throwing errors due to issues with his arm slot and mechanics required to get to a comfortable throwing angle. His arm is strong, but he struggles to make accurate throws while moving to his left. Still, I believe he has the movement skills and athleticism to stick at shortstop, and that this issue can be resolved with continued reps.
Verdict: Curley is a mature, powerful hitter and a prototypical athlete who belongs on the left side of the infield. He may Knoblauch, but there is reason to believe he can develop into a fine defender. FV: 45+.
Luke Hill, SS/2B/3B: 5’11”, 193, Bats R, DoB 4/9/2004 (22 yrs. old), Mississippi (4th Rd, 2025 Draft).
Hill is a solid infielder who can play competently at shortstop, although he is a much better fielder at second or third base. Hill has hit well through his first few months at High-A, showing patience and the ability to recognize pitches he can attack. Like Curley, he has also shown power to all fields despite his smaller frame, currently leading the team in home runs. He has had some impressive exit velocities to all fields.
Verdict: Hill may pan out to be a nice surprise in the early-middle rounds of the 2025 draft. I had him pegged as a utility infielder, but he may become more. Monitor him as he gets promoted, because the early sample is very promising. FV: 40+.
Bennett Thompson is a bat-first catcher with a precocious feel for the zone and a compact, line-drive oriented swing. He is very likely to hit as he moves up, although he is not likely to impact the ball much. However, he is not a smooth operator behind the plate. He often struggles to move in front of pitches, and his arm is middling. This pitching staff is hard to catch, but teams run wild on Thompson no matter who is throwing.
Verdict: Thompson is not a Cleveland type of catcher, at least with the defensive expectations they have. However, the bat and the approach will play, and I am sure there will be interested teams that are willing to let him try catching. FV: 40+.
Nolan Schubart, 1B/LF: 6’4”, 227, Bats L, DoB 5/10/2004 (22 yrs. old), Oklahoma State (3rd Rd, 2025 Draft).
Hit:30/35, Power 60/70, Run 25/25, Field 30/40, Arm 50/50.
Schubart is a three-true-outcome player on offense, and he is learning first base on the fly. His swing is powerful and pretty, but it is also a bit grooved with a permanent uppercut. He generates incredible power, and he knows the zone well enough to wait out his pitch. Too often, he misses his pitch (you will hear this again in the outfield section). As he ascends the ranks, he needs to be able to consistently hit pitches in the middle of the zone, but he shows an approach that can allow him to succeed if he does manage to make just a bit more contact.
Verdict: Schubart is boom or bust. When he gets hot, he can carry an offense, but he needs to be able to survive pitches he can’t handle in the zone to have a more consistent impact. In acknowledging the volatility, FV: 35++.
Logun Clark, C: 5’11”, 205, Bats R, DoB 6/4/2003 (22 yrs. old), Taft Union HS (CA) (16th Rd, 2022 Draft).
Hit: 20/30, Power 30/40, Run 40/35, Field 50/50, Arm 60/60.
Clark is a defense-first catcher who is only catching 1-2 times a week at present. He is a reasonable mover behind the dish, an adequate framer, and a talented thrower with a strong arm.
Verdict: Cleveland loves these types of players, but Clark is a true non-factor at the dish. His defensive chops will keep him in this organization, though. FV: 30+.
Hit:30/40, Power 30/35, Run 50/50, Field 45/50, Arm 40/40.
Howe has occasionally shown a propensity for pulling the ball in the air, maximizing what is an otherwise modest frame. However, the feel for contact has not translated at this level. Defensively, his arm is just good enough to make most throws at shortstop, but he struggles at the hot corner.
Verdict: Howe is almost certainly going to be quality depth for the minor leagues. FV: 30.
Maick Collado, 1B/3B: 5’11”, 185, Bats S, DoB 12/24/2002 (23 yrs. old), Santiago, DR (Int’l free agent, 2019).
Hit:30/40, Power 30/35, Run 40/40, Field 45/50, Arm 50/50.
Collado is already being treated like MiLB floating depth, as he recently spent a few weeks acquitting himself well in Columbus. Collado is not going to wow you at the plate, and he often lacks discipline, but he can occasionally punish a mistake. He is a plus defender at first base, and he makes the occasional flashy play at third base.
Verdict: Collado is already quality depth for the minor leagues, but there is not much of a reason to expect more. FV: 30.
Kevin Rivas, 1B/2B/C: 5’9”, 183, Bats S, DoB 4/7/2003 (23 yrs. old), San Felipe, VZ (Int’l free agent, 2019).
Hit:20/30, Power 30/30, Run 40/40, Field 30/40, Arm 40/40.
Rivas has done everything the team has asked of him. Originally a middle infielder, he converted to catcher to allow the team some flexibility. Catching does not come naturally to Rivas- his games feature many wild pitches and passed balls, and even his bullpen catching leads to on-field delays- but this is the type of player that keeps a minor league system healthy. He has already made cameos at every minor league level above Lake County. He also has a pitching win, thanks in part to his ability to mix speeds and in part to the player below, who hit an improbable 3-run home run to walk off an extra innings game.
Verdict: Rivas is someone the organization values because he can be brought up at short notice. He does that well. These are the kinds of guys that end up coaching. FV: 25.
Jeffrey Mercedes, 1B/2B: 5’8”, 185, Bats S, DoB 10/2/2004 (21 yrs. old), Azua, DR (Int’l free agent, 2022).
Hit:20/30, Power 20/30, Run 50/50, Field 40/40, Arm 30/30.
Mercedes is in an odd situation. He is young for this level, and he looks appropriately overmatched. The team plays him every other day, and the performance often leaves much to be desired. He has been about as effective at the dish as a pitcher, and his glove is limited to the right side of the infield because his arm is underwhelming. For the team to stick a relatively young international signee in High-A would imply that they see potential in him, but there is no doubt that Mercedes is just here to give some guys a breather. On the plus side, he does have a reasonable ERA from the times he has been asked to pitch (although Kevin Rivas has him beat there, too).
Verdict: I’m rooting for him. I call him Jeff. FV: 25.
Hit: 40/50, Power: 50/55, Speed: 60/60, Field 50/50, Arm 50/50.
Surprised at the name? I think many people are, or they will be when they plug in to what Walton is doing. Walton’s performance in High-A has been very strong. He has impacted the ball, hit for average, walked at a healthy rate, and managed his strikeouts to this point. His jumps are reasonable in center field, and he has enough arm to play right field. He is aggressive on the bases, and he moves very well for his size. While Walton appears to be vulnerable to spin in the zone, he does seem to recognize it, and he lays off those pitches enough to get something he can handle. His ability to combat spin will be the key for him going forward.
Verdict: Walton is what they look like, and he is my favorite prospect on this team in terms of present tools because he has shown such a feel for hitting. I’m not quite ready to say he is the best position player prospect on the team, but it is tight between him and two others. FV: 45+.
Hit: 30/40?, Power: 60/60, Speed: 60/50, Field 50/50, Arm 60/60.
Jace LaViolette is a tremendous athlete. If you see him have a good game, you understand why he was a first-round selection. He has tremendous power, he is patient, he moves incredibly well for his size, and he plays a good, comfortable center field. He has everything, and for one game, he will make you think we found a left-handed Aaron Judge with speed.
If you watch one of his bad games, you’ll understand why many analysts were uncomfortable with LaViolette at any spot in the draft. He is currently running a 39%K rate at High-A (it is trending down from a disastrous start to the year). He routinely gets pitches to damage, and he routinely misses them. His swing appears to have a loop, and his operation is stiff. As a result, there is a noticeable hole in his swing, and it happens to be at the center of the zone between the mid-thigh and the belt. He has the whole package except the hit tool. As such, he would be a developmental challenge for any team; but it’s a whole lot of fun when he gets rolling, and it’s hard not to dream on what he could be when you see it all click.
Verdict: LaViolette has tremendous upside, but he also has a subterranean floor. He is easily the second-most exciting prospect on the team in terms of his present tools- because that hit tool is the key between flaming out in the minors and being a star. Accounting for volatility, FV: 40++.
Ryan Cesarini, OF: 5’9”, 211, Bats L, Throws R, DoB 12/16/2002 (23 yrs. old), St. Joseph’s (PA) (14th Rd, 2024 Draft).
Hit: 40/50, Power: 40/40, Speed: 45/40, Field 50/50, Arm 45/45.
Cesarini is an odd case of a player who has put up respectable at-bats, surprising exit velocities, and decent enough defense in the corners. Despite that, he has not received as much playing time as his play seems to warrant. When he does play, he is often a DH, perhaps indicating an injury. His play would not indicate such a thing. Cesarini pulls the ball often, and he sees right-handed pitching very well. He is likely maxed out at 211, and he does seem to be slower than he was last year.
Verdict: There may be something with Cesarini, and it is odd that he is not getting more playing time. Barring a breakout, he will be organizational depth for Cleveland, but I would not be surprised to see a breakout happen. FV: 35+.
Tommy Hawke, OF/2B: 5’8”, 151, Bats L, Throws R, DoB 7/7/2002 (23 yrs. old), Wake Forest (6th Rd, 2023 Draft).
Hit: 40/40, Power: 20/20, Speed: 60/60, Field 50/55, Arm 40/40.
Tommy Hawke can run like the wind, and it’s more about his base running instincts than his natural speed. Unfortunately, his swing is very big, and he tries to slug when he swings at the baseball. This usually does not result in extra bases, but Hawke could easily swipe second and third against this level if he so chose. He is currently playing second base more often than the outfield.
Verdict: Hawke is willing to do the work to remain relevant, and his mentality is a plus for an organization. Still, it’s hard to see him becoming more than depth. FV: 30+.
Hit: 30/30, Power: 30/30, Speed: 60/60, Field 50/50, Arm 50/50.
Gonzalez plays baseball with tremendous energy and joy. He is a good outfielder with a decent arm who can play all three positions, and he can occasionally run into one at the dish. However, he is a maxed out 5’6”, and while he can hit the ball hard, he usually does not.
Verdict: He will be around as someone to play the outfield in various affiliates, but Gonzalez is not a developmental priority for Cleveland. FV: 30.
(Editor’s Note: Thank you, Mike, for another great installment of this series on the Captains. We will have Mike’s final installment, a ranking of the prospects in Lake County, tomorrow)
COVERS INTEL: Tomoyuki Sigano’s 
