Posts

Posted on

Patrick Kane rejoins the Chicago Blackhawks, agreeing to a 2-year, $16 million contract

Patrick Kane

Mar 28, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Red Wings right wing Patrick Kane (88) gets set during a face off in the second period against the Philadelphia Flyers at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Rick Osentoski/Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

CHICAGO — Patrick Kane has rejoined the Chicago Blackhawks, agreeing to a two-year, $16 million contract with his first NHL team.

The deal, which includes a full no-movement clause, was announced by the Blackhawks.

Kane, 37, became one of the NHL’s most dynamic players while spending his first 15-plus seasons in Chicago, helping the Blackhawks win three Stanley Cup championships. He ranks among the franchise’s career leaders with 446 goals, 779 assists and 1,225 points.

“Day in and day out for 16 seasons, Patrick captivated the city of Chicago with his dazzling skill, creating some of the most memorable moments in Blackhawks history as he helped bring our storied franchise back to the pinnacle of our sport,” general manager Kyle Davidson said in a release. “He’s shown on countless occasions that he knows what it takes to win at the highest levels.”

The addition of Kane adds another offensive presence to a lineup that will begin the season without Connor Bedard, who had surgery on his left shoulder on July 8. Kane likely will play with Bedard when the 21-year-old center returns to the ice.

The rebuilding Blackhawks went 29-39-14 last season, an 11-point improvement on the previous season. The team has finished No. 31 in the NHL each of the past three years.

Chicago is looking for its first postseason appearance since the NHL used an expanded playoff format after the 2020 season was affected by the pandemic.

Kane isn’t same player he was during his first stint with the Blackhawks. But he had 16 goals and 41 assists in 67 games with the Detroit Red Wings last season. He has recorded at least 50 points in 18 of his 19 seasons.

The No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 draft passed Mike Modano in January for the most NHL points by a player born in the United States. He has 508 career goals — fourth on the U.S. list — and 1,400 points in 1,369 regular-season games.

Kane was one of Chicago’s biggest stars during the best stretch in franchise history, winning the Stanley Cup in 2010, 2013 and 2015. The Blackhawks also made it to the Western Conference Final in 2014, losing to the Los Angeles Kings in an epic seven-game series.

Kane, who won the 2016 Hart Trophy as NHL MVP, was traded to the New York Rangers in February 2023. The Blackhawks then won the draft lottery and took Bedard with the No. 1 overall pick that same year. As reports swirled about the possibility of Kane returning to Chicago, Bedard openly embraced the idea.

“I can’t imagine his first game back at the (United Center), the reaction he’d get and how much juice that would bring to not only our team but our fans, as well,” Bedard said. “That would be incredible to play with him and learn from him. Hopefully he decides to come back.”

Posted on

Mike Yastrzemski back in right field, Dominic Smith at DH in Braves-Padres series finale

ATLANTA, GA - JULY 05: Mike Yastrzemski #18 of the Atlanta Braves throws in the first inning against the New York Mets at Truist Park on July 5, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Jack Casey/Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Braves kick off a thin slate of games today at 12:15 pm ET. With a victory in the matinee to finish the homestand, they could:

  • Reach win number 60 on the season
  • Add another half game to their division lead (4 now after yesterday’s action concluded)
  • Finally win a series against the San Diego Padres

The decision to make or ruin the rest of our Thursday is in the hands of the following gentlemen:

No real surprises here, even though the Padres made a last-minute change to announce Kyle Hart as their starter. Another opener? You shouldn’t have. Previously announced SP Griffin Canning is likely to follow. 

Drake Baldwin will catch for the third straight day and will keep the Ronald Acuña Jr. leadoff spot warm. Mike Yastrzemski, who served as the DH in his two games back from the IL, returns to right field and bat eighth as he seemingly does his rehab in the majors. Gwinnett’s too full of stars at the moment. Dominic Smith had a pinch-hit RBI last night and will start at DH today. 

Baby Brave Jim Jarvis rounds out the bottom of the lineup as he continues his extended run at shortstop.

For the Padres, things look similar to last night other than Xander Bogaerts moving up a couple spots in the order to hit fifth given his history against Chris Sale. Freddy Fermin will catch, Gavin Sheets will DH, and Jake Cronenworth moves down to bat ninth, which again makes sense due to his 0-for-11 streak against Sale. Last night’s DH Luis Rengifo remains in the two-hole, but he’ll get the start in left field. 

The Delta plane awaits to take the Braves up north to Baltimore and Queens – let’s make it a happy flight. First pitch is at 12:15 pm ET.

Posted on

LeBron James reportedly not waiting for NBA free-agency suitors to make moves

LeBron James reportedly not waiting for NBA free-agency suitors to make moves originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

As the world continues to anticipate LeBron James’ decision on which team he will sign with during the 2026 NBA free agency period, the four-time NBA MVP reportedly is not waiting for any team to make a move that would sway his decision.

Previously, there was a report that James has been taking his time with his decision, seeing whether any of his suitors could find a way to acquire Washington Wizards forward Anthony Davis or Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving.

However, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that James will choose his next team on his own terms.

“Now that we’re 20 days in, there’s nothing left. The teams are the teams. The information is the information. LeBron has everything he needs to make a decision. The conversations have happened. From my understanding, my sources tell me, LeBron James, his agent Rich Paul and that inner circle, they’re not waiting for another domino right now,” Charania said on ESPN’s “The Pat McAfee Show” on Thursday.

“They’re not waiting for Anthony Davis to get traded anywhere. They’re not waiting for anyone else to move anywhere. The teams – Cleveland, Miami, Golden State, Philadelphia, Minnesota – they’re set. Those are the teams. Wherever he ends up, you’re looking at minimum deals, you’re looking at exceptions. The contracts are not going to be a grand part of this deal.

“LeBron James is very clear from the very beginning. This is going to be based on happiness in terms of a chance to contend for a championship, a chance to compete at a high level and join a [winning] culture. That doesn’t come from going to a team and then gutting that team from multiple different players.”

The Warriors remain in the running as one of James’ top destinations, considering the 22-time NBA All-Star selection would get the opportunity to play alongside Golden State’s franchise star Steph Curry, and under coach Steve Kerr.

“If during the first week of July, LeBron James and Rich Paul told the Heat or the [Cavaliers] or the Warriors, ‘Hey, we need you to do this, and we’re coming,’ those teams might have done that. But that message was not delivered,” Charania added.

While there might be some pressure coming from commissioner Adam Silver and the NBA for a quicker process, James and his agent, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, are running on their own clock and have expressed that a decision will be made whenever it is ready.

In the meantime, the world shall continue to wait.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast

Posted on

Rays vs. Blue Jays prediction: Odds, recent stats, trends, and best bets for July 23

The AL East-leading Tampa Bay Rays (59-42) will look to complete a four-game sweep of the struggling Toronto Blue Jays (46-56) this afternoon. Tampa Bay has outscored Toronto 23-5 through the first three games of the series. The Rays lead the AL East by 2.5 games over the Yankees while the Jays sit in the cellar 13.5 games behind Tampa.

Last night, the Rays rode a dominant start from Griffin Jax and a couple RBIs from Victor Mesa Jr. to a 4-2 win. Jax allowed just one run over six innings to earn his sixth win of the season. Mesa failed to go yard for the first time in four games, but he did pick up a couple hits. He has now hit in four straight games (5-15) with three home runs and five runs batted in.

The pitching matchup today features Ian Seymour (6-2, 4.79 ERA) for Tampa Bay against former Cy Young winner Shane Bieber (1-1, 5.70 ERA) for Toronto.

The 27-year-old Seymour has struggled in each of his last three starts allowing 12 runs in just 11.2 innings. In his most recent start, Seymour faced Boston on July 18 and lasted only three innings, allowing three earned runs on two hits (both home runs) and two walks while striking out four.

Shane Bieber (elbow) is still working his way back into form after missing significant time and has made only five starts this season. He threw six scoreless innings with six strikeouts against the White Sox on July 18. The question entering Thursday is whether that outing represented a true turning point or simply a one-start rebound.

Lets dive into tonight’s matchup and find a sweat or two.

 

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch first pitch, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

 

Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.

 

Game Details and How to Watch: Rays vs. Blue Jays

 

  • Date: Thursday, July 23, 2026
  • Time: 3:07PM EST
  • Site: Rogers Centre
  • City: Toronto, ON
  • Network/Streaming: MLB.TV, Rays.TV, Sportsnet, WMOR-TV

 

Never miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.

 

The Latest Odds: Rays vs. Blue Jays

The latest odds as of Thursday courtesy of DraftKings:

  • Moneyline: Tampa Bay Rays (-112), Toronto Blue Jays (-108)
  • Spread: Rays -1.5 (+149), Blue Jays +1.5 (-181)
  • Total: 8.5 runs

 

Probable Starting Pitchers and their Stats: Rays vs. Blue Jays for July 23

  • Rays: Ian Seymour
    Season Totals: 67.2 IP, 6-2, 4.79 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 79K, 26 BB
  • Blue Jays: Shane Bieber
    Season Totals: 23.2 IP, 1-1, 5.70 ERA, 1.73 WHIP, 19K, 12 BB

Who’s Hot? Who’s Not! Rays vs. Blue Jays

  • Shane Bieber has given up HRs to Jonathan Aranda, Junior Caminero, and Cedric Mullins in his career.
  • Ernie Clement is 4-8 in his career against Ian Seymour
  • George Springer is 3-6 in his career against Seymour
  • Yandy Diaz is 4-16 in this series after going 0-5 last night
  • Nick Fortes is riding a modest 4-game hitting streak (7-15)
  • Kyle Okamoto is without a hit in his last 6 games (0-19)

Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

 

Top Betting Trends & Insights: Rays vs. Blue Jays

  • The Rays are 60-41 on the Run Line this season
  • The Blue Jays are 45-57 on the Run Line this season
  • The OVER has cashed 46 times in Tampa’s 101 games this season (46-50-5)
  • The OVER has cashed 52 times in the Blue Jays’ 102 games this season (52-46-4)

Expert picks & predictions: Rays vs. Blue Jays

 

Rotoworld Bet Best Bet

 
Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

 

Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.

 

Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

 

Here are the best bets our model is projecting for today’s game between the Rays and the Blue Jays:

 

  • Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is recommending a play on the Rays on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Rays on the Run Line.
  • Total: Rotoworld Bet is staying away from a play on the Game Total OVER 8.5.

 

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

  • Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
  • Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
  • Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
  • Trysta Krick (@Trysta_Krick)
Posted on

Astros Prospect Report: July 22nd

WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA - MARCH 14: Tyler Whitaker #92 of the Houston Astros hits a walk off RBI single during the ninth inning of a spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches on March 14, 2025 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images

Another day of minor league baseball is in the books. See the results below. Check out yesterday’s recap here.

AAA: Sugar Land Space Cowboys (49-48) won 6-5 (BOX SCORE)

Sugar Land got on the board in the first inning on a Biggio solo home run. They got another run in the 3rd inning on a Loperfido solo home run. McPherson got the start and went 5 innings allowing 3 runs while striking out 4. Sugar Land tied it up in the 6th inning on a Diaz RBI single. The pen was solid keeping the game tied as it went to extra innings. In the 10th, the Sounds scored 2 runs to take a 5-3 lead but in the bottom of the inning Sugar Land rallied for 3 runs on a Whitcomb RBI double, Guillemette bases loaded walk and walk-off Sacco bases loaded walk as Sugar Land won 6-5.

Note: Biggio has a .905 OPS this season.

AA: Corpus Christi Hooks (43-49) won 10-9 (BOX SCORE)

The Hooks got on the board in the first inning scoring a run on a Bush steal of home. They scored 2 runs in the 2nd inning on a Whitaker solo home run and Hernandez solo home run. Hertzler got the start for the Hooks and struggled allowing 7 runs, though only 1 was earned. The Sod Poodles got a run in the 5th but the Hooks responded with 2 runs on an error. After the Sod Poodles scored again in the 6th, Call connected on a 3 run home run in the bottom of the inning to make it 9-8. In the 8th, Austin tied the game with a solo home run. In the 9th, the Hooks walked it off on an Encarnacion grounder as the Hooks won 10-9.

Note: Austin has a .841 OPS this season.

A+: Asheville Tourists (32-57)

Game One – lost 2-1 (BOX SCORE)

Santos started for Asheville and had a solid outing allowing 2 runs over 5 innings while striking out 9. Asheville got on the board in the top of the 6th on a Frey RBI single but that was it from the offense as they dropped game one, 2-1.

Note: Thomas has 17 doubles this season.

Game Two – lost 4-3 (BOX SCORE)

Asheville got on the board in the first inning on a Huezo RBI single. Cruz got the start in game two and allowed 3 runs, 2 earned, over 3.1 innings of work. Asheville rallied in the 6th to tie the game on a Huezo solo home run and Nunez RBI single. In the bottom of the 7th, the Hot Rods walked it off as Asheville fell 4-3.

Note: Huezo has a .945 OPS in High-A.

A: Fayetteville Woodpeckers (45-45) lost 9-6 (BOX SCORE)

After a scoreless inning from Smith, Forcucci came on for the second but struggled allowing 5 runs, 4 earned over 1.1 innings. The Woodpeckers got on the board in the 2nd inning on an error and then in the 5th they rallied for 4 runs to tie it on an Alvarez RBI single, Luciano 2 run double and Cauro sac fly. The Woodpeckers took the lead in the 7th on a Wakefield RBI single but the Nationals tied it at 7 in the bottom of the inning. In the 8th inning, the Nationals scored 3 runs to take the lead. The offense was unable to respond as the Woodpeckers fell 9-6.

Note: Alvarez is hitting .338 over his last 15 games.

Today’s minor league starters:

SL: TBD – 7:05 CT

CC: Brett Gillis – 6:35 CT

AV: Kellan Oakes – 6:35 CT

FV: TBD – 5:35 CT

Posted on

MLB Expert Picks & Baseball Predictions July 23

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

There are only five games on the slate today, but that hasn't stopped our betting experts from digging into the slate to provide you with their favorite MLB picks.

Find out what you need to add to your betting card on July 23.

MLB expert picks for today

PickOdds
Josh Inglis Josh Inglis: Rays ML+100
Jason WilsonJason Wilson: Diamondbacks/Cardinals - Over 8.5+138

Prices courtesy of Polymarket.

Trade on the MLB at Polymarket!

Sign up now using our exclusive Polymarket promo code 'COVERS' (on your mobile app only) and get a $50 trading bonus after you deposit $50 to trade on any other event contracts — including MLB expert picks!

Sign Up Now at img src="https://img.covers.com/editorial/2026/polymarketlogo.png" alt="Polymarket" width="100" height="28" style="vertical-align: middle;"

*Eligible locations only

Josh Inglis' expert pick: Rays moneyline

Price: 50¢ (+100) at Polymarket

I'm fading the Toronto Blue Jays as much as I can.

Both clubs are in getaway spots, but the Tampa Bay Rays have a chance to complete the four-game sweep and have won eight of the last nine meetings. Ian Seymour is the reason Toronto is favored, but I'm not giving Shane Bieber a free pass after one good start.

Bieber has been one of the hardest-hit pitchers in baseball this season, ranking in the Bottom 10 among qualified starters in HR/9 and HR/FB while sitting dead last in both xERA and BlastContact%. His overall numbers remain ugly despite a solid outing last time out.

The last time I checked, you need to score runs to win games, and Toronto has been the worst team in baseball at doing so all season. The Blue Jays have scored just 10 runs in six games since the All-Star break, with their only win in that stretch coming in a 1-0 game against the White Sox.

They've also been outscored 23-5 through the first three games of this series while committing six errors. Tampa should be favored here, just like yesterday

  • Time: 3:07 p.m. ET
  • How to watch: Sportsnet, Rays.TV

Jason Wilson's expert pick: Diamondbacks/Cardinals - Over 8.5

Price: 42¢ (+138) at Polymarket

Brandon Pfaadt and Michael McGreevy are two starters whose underlying metrics ring all sorts of alarm bells.

Pfaadt was demoted to the Arizona Diamondbacks bullpen and Triple-A this season, and hasn't missed any bats when at the big-league level.

McGreevy, for all his success, is a ticking time bomb with an expected ERA (5.35) almost 2.5 runs higher than his actual ERA (2.92). Both pitchers get barreled at a high rate, with the only real positives under the hood being their ability to limit walks.

But that also tells us they both live in the zone, and that's where the damage gets done. The Diamondbacks have also owned baseball's hottest offense over the last two weeks, scoring 66 runs in their last 10 games while slugging .478.

I don't trust McGreevy to weather that storm. If he somehow avoids the worst of it, the St. Louis Cardinals bullpen has shown it cannot hold the line.

And even if St. Louis' lineup has gone in the complete opposite direction in that time, Pfaadt is the guy to help turn that around. Trust in Jordan Walker's 100th-percentile bat speed.

  • Time: 5:15 p.m. ET
  • How to watch: Diamondbacks.TV, Cardinals.TV

More MLB best bets for today

PickOdds
Braves -1.5-126
Read analysis in our Padres vs. Braves predictions
Guardians ML-140
Read analysis in our Twins vs. Guardians predictions

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.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Posted on

MLB Predictions and Moneyline Picks for Thursday, July 23

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

One of the smallest slates we’ve endured all season, just five games to sweat out and have a little fun with. That usually means fewer options, but it also means the edges stand out a little more.

So, without further ado, here are today’s MLB moneyline predictions as we dive into the tiny slate with my MLB picks for Thursday, July 23.

MLB moneyline picks for July 23

MatchupPick
Padres Padres
vs
Braves Braves		Braves
-233
Twins Twins
vs
Guardians Guardians		Twins
+130
Rays Rays
vs
Blue Jays Blue Jays		Rays
+102
Diamondbacks Diamondbacks
vs
Cardinals Cardinals		Diamondbacks
+111
Royals Royals
vs
Tigers Tigers		Royals
+190

Prices courtesy of Polymarket as of 7-23.

Trade on the MLB at Polymarket!

Sign up now using our exclusive Polymarket promo code 'COVERS' (on your mobile app only) and get a $50 trading bonus after you deposit $50 to trade on any other event contracts — including MLB moneylines!

Sign Up Now at img src="https://img.covers.com/editorial/2026/polymarketlogo.png" alt="Polymarket" width="100" height="28" style="vertical-align: middle;"

*Eligible locations only

Expert MLB moneyline picks for July 23

Padres vs Braves: Braves (-233)

Braves win probability: 70%

Take the Atlanta Braves on the run line here. With Griffin Canning on the mound this afternoon, Atlanta should have plenty of success at the dish.

Canning enters as one of the lowest rated pitchers on this small slate, per Batters-Box, while the Braves own one of the highest rated offenses of the day. The San Diego Padres right hander has posted a 6.75 ERA and 1.73 WHIP over his last five outings, while allowing a 45.45% hard hit rate.

Chris Sale has been nails all season. At home, he owns a 1.35 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, and a 25.23% strikeout rate, giving Atlanta a sizable edge on the mound.

Twins vs Guardians: Twins (+130)

Twins win probability: 44%

Are we finally watching Taj Bradley put it all together?

The Minnesota Twins right hander owns a 3.19 ERA, 2.77 xERA, 1.10 WHIP, and a 32% strikeout rate over his last five starts. We've always known he can rack up strikeouts, but limiting runs has been the biggest question.

With Cleveland Guardians right hander Gavin Williams carrying a 5.09 ERA over his last three starts, I think it's worth taking a shot on the Twins at +130.

Rays vs Blue Jays: Rays (+102)

Rays win probability: 50%

Give me the Tampa Bay Rays as a dog against the most lifeless team in baseball. Please, give me them at plus money.

The Toronto Blue Jays own a 43 wRC+ over their last six games, a 76 over their last 12, and a 67 over their last 21. Their offense is nonexistent. Meanwhile, the Rays have posted a 124 wRC+, .342 wOBA, and .780 OPS across their last 21 games.

Sure, Ian Seymour has not been the most sustainable arm in the Rays rotation, but you're going to tell me Shane Bieber, who owns a 5.70 ERA, 5.35 xERA, and 1.73 WHIP across his last five starts, is the better option?

Rays.

Diamondbacks vs Cardinals: Diamondbacks (+111)

Diamondbacks win probability: 48%

Another misprice in my opinion.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are sitting at +111 against a St. Louis Cardinals team that owns a 69 wRC+, .267 wOBA, and .580 OPS over its last six games. Meanwhile, Arizona's offense is finally coming alive, posting a 151 wRC+, .390 wOBA, and .903 OPS over that same span.

What's even more impressive is how well Brandon Pfaadt has been throwing the ball lately. Over his last five starts, he owns a 2.86 ERA, 2.75 xERA, and 1.14 WHIP. On the other side, Michael McGreevy has been solid, but is this Cardinals offense really going to give him enough support tonight?

Give me the Diamondbacks at plus money.

Royals vs Tigers: Royals (+190)

Royals win probability: 34%

I am not the biggest fan of the 2026 Kansas City Royals, but they are clearly seeing the ball much better over their last few games than the Detroit Tigers. I think getting them at +190 is worth the squeeze on a team that owns a .762 OPS, 115 wRC+, and a 42% hard hit rate across its last 12 games.

Meanwhile, the Tigers have posted a 100 wRC+, .311 wOBA, and a 24% strikeout rate over their last six games.

Sure, Tigers right hander Troy Melton has been great, and Randy Dobnak's underlying metrics point toward some serious regression, but at +190, I think the Royals are worth a sprinkle.

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.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Posted on

Blue Jackets sign goaltender Jet Greaves to $15 million, 3-year deal through the 2028-29 season

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed goaltender Jet Greaves to a three-year, $15 million contract through the 2028-29 season.

The deal was announced Thursday by general manager Don Waddell, who said "Jet is a high-character, talented and athletic goaltender who has become an important part of our hockey club. Our intent always was to get a deal done to ensure he remains a Blue Jacket and we are thrilled that we were able to do so.”

The 25-year-old Greaves finished 26-19-9 with a 2.60 goals-against average last season to become the fifth goaltender in franchise history to win 25 games in a season. He had two shutouts in 55 games. His .908 save percentage tied for sixth among NHL goaltenders.

In 76 career appearances, Greaves has a 36-28-11 record with a .913 save percentage and four shutouts. He made his NHL debut at the end of the 2022-23 season.

Greaves is a native of Cambridge, Ontario who made his international debut for Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Championships in Switzerland. He finished 6-2 in the tournament to tie for third in wins.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

Posted on

Why Knicks are poised to be regular season juggernaut in 2026-27

While the high may still be coming down for Knicks fans experiencing their first championship in 53 years, the rest of the league is back to usual business, re-shuffling their rosters in pursuit of New York’s throne. Opposing fans are already touting their new acquisitions and downplaying the Knicks' run as flukey, but they may be in for a rude awakening.

With how dominantly and cohesively New York ran through the playoffs, the league should be more fearful they’ll come in even better than they were last season. Here’s why we shouldn't be surprised if the Knicks continue their tear with a 60-win regular season.

The manner in which New York steamrolled the playoffs - 12 consecutive wins, only three total losses by a combined six points, massive closeout blowouts and a historic point differential - suggests it wasn’t just a heater, but an all-time great team finding itself. Something clicked that allowed them to elevate to a new level, one that, if sustained, should have a similar impact on the regular season.

Guys playing multiple roles selflessly, committing on defense, and openly moving in and out of the rotation to answer the team’s needs at the moment. This, on top of the standout on-paper talent that’s almost entirely been retained, should make for a standout group. 

If this team could sweep the best of the Eastern Conference last year, and walk the Spurs down over five games in the Finals, hitting 60 wins shouldn’t be an especially outsized challenge. They’ve historically dominated lesser teams and had to fight against the league’s top dogs, and so long as they can stay relatively healthy, they’re atop the food chain now. 

They will also have less holding them back this year. The weight of trying to secure the city’s first championship in a half-century is lifted, and so are the challenges of figuring out how to be that caliber of team.

Head coach Mike Brown spent training camp implementing a new offensive system that he had to spend months of the regular season adjusting to his personnel, and the same with the defensive side. At times this caused friction, and it required a lot of trial and error to perfect.

Now they’re coming into his second training camp with the answers to the test already, and won’t need to spend so much of the regular season trying new things. Brown will still dabble in new schemes and rotations as other teams adapt and the Knicks try to further raise their ceiling, but at least now the roster will be used to it and can see the ultimate vision.

This will be year three of this core starting five, so while New York comes into 2026-27 familiar with themselves, the rest of the league will spend some time discovering their identities. Boston, Miami, Philadelphia, Toronto and Indiana all made big trades in the last year and will go through adjustment periods figuring out their new teams.

Oklahoma City and San Antonio are still the behemoths out West, but the rest of the conference is noticeably worse. The Knicks will have an edge right from opening night.

If they can continue playing at the level they ended last season on, without the pressure or major schematic changes, while the rest of the league needs time to figure itself out - watch out. Their dominance didn't just end with the 2026 championship, in fact it may be just beginning.

Posted on

Padres’ five-run rally not enough in 7-6 loss

Atlanta Braves Jim Jarvis (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Atlanta Braves host the San Diego Padres in the series-deciding finale. If the Braves win, they will have won three of the four games. A victory this morning secures a series split for the Padres.

The four-game set has been highly competitive, as the Braves are coming off a dramatic 7-6 win last night. Rookie shortstop Jim Jarvis broke up a 1-1 tie with a run-scoring double that scored Mauricio Dubon in a six-run eighth-inning rally. The Friars responded with a five-run top of the ninth that fell short of tying the game. 

Taking the mound: Chris Sale (ATL) vs Kyle Hart (SD)

The Braves ace, Chris Sale, will take the hill in the series finale. He has been dominant in 18 starts this season. The left-hander has struck out 123 batters in 105.0 innings pitched.

Today’s game plan is simple, as Sale wants to set the tone early with scoreless innings before handing a lead off to the bullpen. Surprisingly, Sale still generates weak contact from opposing lineups after 16 major league seasons. 

Sale is making his second start following his 10th All-Star Game appearance, and he reached a milestone in his last appearance. Sale recorded his 2,700th career strikeout in a start against the Texas Rangers. 

The Padres will start Kyle Hart as the opener this morning. But Griffin Canning (1-8, 6.67 ERA) will work the bulk innings, as he will try to turn his 2026 campaign around. The veteran right-hander had his troubles against the Braves this season. Earlier, he allowed four runs in less than two-thirds of an inning at Petco Park. 

Canning will need to be more aggressive in the strike zone. However, consistency has been missing all season. Canning desperately needs to have a good outing, as he allowed 13 runs over his last 16.1 innings pitched.

Friars skipper Craig Stammen may have a short leash for him in today’s contest. If he shows any signs of trouble, Canning will be removed from the game. Stammen has to give his team an opportunity to even the series.

Today’s starting lineups

Posted on

Rays vs Blue Jays Prediction, Odds & Home Run Pick for Today's MLB Game

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

The Toronto Blue Jays close out a rough four-game set with the Tampa Bay Rays this afternoon, with both sides priced at -110.

Toronto’s bats have gone missing for most of this series, but Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is hitting the ball as hard as he has all year, and he's the focus of my Rays vs. Blue Jays predictions.

Read on for my MLB picks for this Thursday, July 23 matchup.

Rays vs Blue Jays predictions

Rays vs Blue Jays best bet: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Over 1.5 total bases (+125)

While I won’t ever base a bet on one swing, I saw some great cuts from Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in Wednesday’s loss to the Tampa Bay Rays.

In his first at-bat, he crushed a double the other way to right field at 105 mph, narrowly missing a home run. He’s swinging hard trying to drag this offense out of its rut, and I expect that to translate against Rays starter Ian Seymour.

As I’ll get into below, Seymour serves up meatball fastballs. He’s allowed a homer in four straight starts, and opponents own a .497 xSLG against his fastball, sinker and cutter.

Guerrero also holds the platoon advantage here, carrying a .762 OPS and 121 wRC+ against southpaws, far above his numbers vs. righties.

I’d play this to +110.

Covers COVERS INTEL:Guerrero topped 105 mph exit velocity on all four of his balls in play Wednesday, and he now draws a pitcher who lives up in the zone with his fastball.

Rays vs Blue Jays same-game parlay (SGP)

The Toronto Blue Jays bullpen worked hard on Wednesday, and fatigue tends to show up late in a series, while Ian Seymour’s penchant for allowing homers gives Toronto a path to runs of its own. 

I’ll add Vladdy Over 0.5 hits, leaning on the same hard contact behind my best bet, then finish with the Blue Jays on the moneyline — banking on the home side finally breaking out with a statement win in the finale.

Rays vs Blue Jays SGP

  • Blue Jays moneyline
  • Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Over 0.5 hits
  • Over 8.5

Covers Alberta: Sports betting is now live!

Regulated Alberta sports betting has officially launched, allowing sportsbooks to operate under provincial oversight.

You can sign up and join BET99 — one of the best Alberta betting apps — now to get in on the Blue Jays action!

Sign Up Now atimg src="https://img.covers.com/betting/sportsbooks/82/bet99.svg" alt="BET99" width="100" height="28" style="vertical-align: middle;"

Rays vs Blue Jays home run pick: Kazuma Okamoto (+280)

By all accounts, Kazuma Okamoto is the best home run bet on the board. 

He’s the perfect foil for Rays starter Ian Seymour, who carries a 1.6 HR/9, has allowed a homer in four straight outings and owns a bad fastball.

The left-hander has a very good changeup (+9 run value), but his fastball grades out below average (-2 run value), and the heat maps show it sitting high in the zone.

Enter Okamoto, who owns a +12 run value against the four-seamer, slugs .578 on that pitch, and leads the Blue Jays with five home runs against lefties this season. 

The matchup works on both the pitch mix and the platoon side, which makes him the best home run bet on the card.

I’d bet this to +250 but no shorter, at my standard quarter unit.

2026 Transparency Record
  • Best bets: 8-8, -0.57 units
  • SGPs: 2-15, -2.06 units
  • HR picks: 3-14, -0.50 units

Rays vs Blue Jays odds

  • Moneyline: Tampa Bay -110 | Toronto -110
  • Run line: Tampa Bay -1.5 (+150) | Toronto +1.5 (-175)
  • Over/Under: Over 8.5 (-110) | Under 8.5 (-110)

Rays vs Blue Jays trend

The Toronto Blue Jays have seen the Over cash in eight of their last 12 games. Find more MLB betting trends for Rays vs. Blue Jays.

How to watch Rays vs Blue Jays and game info

LocationRogers Centre, Toronto, ON
DateThursday, 7-23-2026
First pitch3:07 p.m. ET
TVRays.TV, Sportsnet
Rays starting pitcherIan Seymour
(6-2, 4.79 ERA)
Blue Jays starting pitcherShane Bieber
(1-1, 5.70 ERA)

Rays vs Blue Jays latest injuries

Rays vs Blue Jays 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.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Posted on

Veteran Patrick Kane reunites with Blackhawks on 2-year, $16M deal

Blackhawks icon Patrick Kane is returning to Chicago.

The All-Star winger has signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the team that drafted him first overall in 2007 and he helped lead to three Stanley Cup titles over a six-season span.

The Blackhawks announced the signing on Thursday, July 23.

Kane, 37, spent the last three seasons with the Detroit Red Wings before becoming an unrestricted free agent.

Playing the first 16 seasons of his NHL career in Chicago, Kane made an indelible mark on the franchise record book, ranking second in assists (779) and points (1,225), as well as third in career games played (1,161) and goals (446).

Kane, the 2008 NHL rookie of the year, helped the Blackhawks end a 47-year Stanley Cup drought in 2010.

Three years later, he won the Conn Smythe Trophy in leading Chicago to another title. He added a third for good measure in 2015, when he led all scorers in the playoffs.

His best season came the following year, when he won the Hart Trophy, Art Ross Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award after tallying 46 goals and 106 points in 2015-16.

Patrick Kane played 16 seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks before he was traded midway through the 2022-23 season.

The Blackhawks dealt Kane to the New York Rangers in a three-way deal in early 2023. He then signed a series of three successive one-year contracts with the Detroit Red Wings before ultimately deciding to return to the site of his greatest accomplishments.

“Day in and day out for 16 seasons, Patrick captivated the city of Chicago with his dazzling skill, creating some of the most memorable moments in Blackhawks history as he helped bring our storied franchise back to the pinnacle of our sport," Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said in a statement.

“He’s shown on countless occasions that he knows what it takes to win at the highest levels, and we couldn’t be prouder for Patrick to once again call the United Center home and continue to shine in Chicago’s brightest lights."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Veteran Patrick Kane reunites with Blackhawks on 2-year, $16M deal

Posted on

Former Wild Forward Is Now The Best Free Agent Left

The NHL had a big signing on Thursday, as Patrick Kane reunited with the Chicago Blackhawks on a two-year, $8 million AAV contract. With this signing, a former Minnesota Wild forward is now the best UFA still on the market: Vladimir Tarasenko. 

Now that Kane has been signed, it would not be surprising if Tarasenko's market heats up. The 34-year-old forward showed last season with Minnesota that he can still be a solid middle-six forward, evidenced by his 23 goals and 47 points in 75 games. 

Teams looking for more offensive production should consider taking a flier on Tarasenko because of it. Even if he is no longer the star he was during his prime, he could still be a good pickup for a team needing more secondary scoring. 

Tarasenko is also a two-time Stanley Cup winner, which undoubtedly adds to his appeal. This could help him grab the attention of some contenders, especially if he is willing to take a bit of a paycut at this point in the off-season. 

It will be interesting to see where Tarasenko ends up signing this summer. Teams looking for more scoring and experience should have the veteran forward on their radar now that he is the NHL's top UFA. 

In 906 career NHL games over 14 seasons split between the St. Louis Blues, New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators, Florida Panthers, Detroit Red Wings, and Wild, Tarasenko has posted 327 goals, 382 assists, and 709 points. 

Posted on

Gerrit Cole and Max Fried together in Yankees rotation for the first time, and their numbers add to Aaron Judge’s 99

NEW YORK — While the Yankees still are missing Aaron Judge, Gerrit Cole and Max Fried pitched together in New York’s rotation for first time and their numbers add to the injured captain’s 99.

Displaying $542 million worth of aces, the Yankees sent the pair to the mound in a doubleheader against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Cole didn’t get a decision in an opening 5-3, 10-inning loss, striking out 11 — his highest total in three years — while allowing three runs over seven innings. Fried came off the injured list for the night game and pitched five innings of one-hit ball in a 2-0 win.

“I think you saw a master class today,” fellow Yankees pitcher Will Warren said.

New York manager Aaron Boone long had envisioned Cole (No. 45) and Fried (54) following each other to the mound.

“It’s nice that it’s finally come to fruition,” Cole said. “A bit too long for of our both of our tastes.”

Signed to a nine-year, $324 million contract before the 2020 season, Cole won the 2023 AL Cy Young Award and helped the Yankees reach the 2024 World Series. He had elbow ligament reconstruction surgery on March 11 last year, and the 35-year-old right-hander didn’t return until this past May 22.

Cole is 3-5 with a 3.92 ERA in 11 starts, striking out 66 and walking 12 in 62 innings. He retired his first 14 batters before allowing Nick Gonzales’ single and Jacob Gonzalez’s two-run homer. Nick Gonzales added a solo homer in the seventh.

He pitched his 64th double-digit strikeout game, a Yankees-record 29th.

“He’s at a really good place and I just think benefiting from now pitching every fifth and sixth day and getting back his competitive sea legs,” Boone said.

Cole did have a hiccup when he was called for a balk in the sixth inning. The pitch clock malfunctioned and went blank, and Cole broke his hands before stepping off the pitching rubber.

“They were not aware that the clock went off,” Cole said. “And it is my fault. I broke and stepped off at the same time. I was startled that it was off.”

Fried signed an eight-year, $218 million deal in December 2024 and led the major leagues in wins last year when he went 19-5 with a 2.86 ERA. The 32-year-old left-hander, who had not pitched since May 14 because of a bone bruise in his left elbow, is 4-3 with a 2.97 ERA.

He threw 52 pitches over three innings in a rehab outing for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and was set to make another rehab outing for the RailRiders. Then a game was postponed because rain was forecast, creating the doubleheader.

Fried was in the clubhouse and Boone happened to be there with pitching coach Matt Blake and other mound staff.

“I walked in and just kind of jokingly said like: ‘Are you guys figuring out who’s pitching the doubleheader tomorrow?’ thinking they were going to choose which game it was going to be between Will and Gerrit,” Fried recalled. “And then they kind of looked at me and gave me a look of like: ‘Would you be on?’ I was, ‘Oh wait, we’re serious?’ I was like, ‘Yeah. Like, I mean, I’m going to pitching anyway.’ So I was — as soon as they said that, I said, ‘Yeah, you guys make the decision, but if you want me to pitch, I’m ready.’”

He struck out seven and walked one while throwing 37 of 57 pitches for strikes and retiring his last 12 batters.

“It’s something that I’ve been looking forward to for a while now and kind of sucks that I got hurt when I did to delay that, but better late than never,” Fried said.

His four-seam fastball averaged 96.2 mph, 1.5 mph above his season average coming in.

“It’s as good as he’s looked all year,” Boone said.

New York currently still is missing left-hander Carlos Rodón, who hasn’t pitched since June 28 because of left elbow inflammation. Right-hander Clarke Schmidt threw 20 pitches of batting practice in his second BP session since elbow surgery on July 11 last year and probably will have another in a few days.

“Hopefully in the final couple of months of the regular season that rotation can continue to be a real strength for us,” Boone said.

Cole had been waiting 19 months to go back-to-back with Fried.

“We were so excited when we signed him. He’s just a magnificent pitcher and he’s a great compliment to the other starters that we have in our rotation,” he said. “Definitely looking forward to the next few months.”

Posted on

Diamondbacks vs Cardinals Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

The St. Louis Cardinals host the Arizona Diamondbacks as -112 favorites tonight at Busch Stadium.

With Brandon Pfaadt toeing the rubber for Arizona opposite Michael McGreevy, my Diamondbacks vs. Cardinals predictions are favoring the home side and the Over.

I explain why in my MLB picks for Thursday, July 23, below.

Who will win Diamondbacks vs Cardinals today: Cardinals (-112)

I'm no longer a believer in Brandon Pfaadt. I was high on the Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander as a prospect and into his first full season in the rotation in 2024. His 4.71 ERA that year seemed fake, as he boasted an expected ERA of 3.73 and a 3.61 FIP with a 24.3% strikeout rate. In other words, there was a clear path for improvement.

That hasn't happened. His 2025 was a disaster, and 2026 found him back in the minors for a spell while splitting time between the bullpen and rotation with the top club. His 4.58 ERA isn't far off his xERA, and his ability to miss bats has regressed, with a 15th-percentile whiff rate and a strikeout rate in the 14th. 

Opponents own a 9% barrel rate against him (29th percentile), and while he's pitched better since returning to the rotation, there's way too much smoke to ignore the fire. 

Jordan Walker and JJ Wetherholt are among the bats who will feast on Pfaadt's offerings early, giving the St. Louis Cardinals enough of a lead that the bullpen won't blow it this time.

The relief corps' shakiness is the only reason I'm not taking the run line, as it's shown that a big lead can evaporate in the blink of an eye.

Play to -120. 

Covers COVERS INTEL: Walker's breakout is legitimate, and his 100th-percentile bat speed helps him catch up to high-velocity arms and to really punish those like Pfaadt, who might touch 94.

Diamondbacks vs Cardinals Over/Under pick: Over 8.5 (+140)

Pfaadt and Michael McGreevy give up regular and loud contact.

McGreevy has limited the damage well enough, as indicated by his 2.92 ERA, but it's simply not sustainable. I like him to outpitch Pfaadt, but that's about it.

He's also stepping in against baseball's hottest offense. The Diamondbacks have scored a whopping 66 runs over their last 10 games in the past two weeks.

The Cardinals have watched theirs dry up a bit in that span, but Pfaadt's deficiencies will help reignite St. Louis' bats.

I'd play this down to even money and would even consider Over 9.5 at +180 or longer.

Jason Wilson's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 6-1, +5.23 units
  • Over/Under bets: 4-3, -0.2 units

Diamondbacks vs Cardinals weather

A high-pressure system with winds blowing toward home plate could suppress fly ball distance, limiting home run potential at Busch Stadium, so the scoring may come by a stream of consistent contact where the ball stays in play.

Diamondbacks vs Cardinals odds

  • Moneyline: Diamondbacks +104 | Cardinals -108
  • Run line: Diamondbacks +1.5 (-178) | Cardinals -1.5 (+170)
  • Over/Under: Over 8.5 (+150) | Under 8.5 (-156)

Diamondbacks vs Cardinals trend

The Arizona Diamondbacks have hit the Team Total Over in 13 of their last 19 games (+5.90 Units / 26% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Diamondbacks vs. Cardinals.

How to watch Diamondbacks vs Cardinals and game info

LocationBusch Stadium, St. Louis, MO
DateThursday, July 23, 2026
First pitch5:15 p.m. ET
TVDiamondbacks.TV, Cardinals.TV
Diamondbacks starting pitcherBrandon Pfaadt
(4-1, 4.58 ERA)
Cardinals starting pitcherMichael McGreevy
(4-7, 2.92 ERA)

Diamondbacks vs Cardinals latest injuries

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.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.