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(10-13-26) Blues-Senators Gameday Lineup

The start of a three-game road trip will being a new set of challenges for the St. Louis Blues, who open against the Ottawa Senators from Canadian Tire Center in Kanata, Ontario at 6:30 p.m. (Blue Note+, ESPN 101.1-FM) on NHL’s Frozen Frenzy where all 32 years are in action.

The Blues (2-2-1) are coming off a come-from-behind 5-3 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets, while the Brady Tkachuk-less Senators are off to a surprisingly 5-1-0 start, which included a 4-1 win at the New Jersey Devils on Monday.

The teams have a lot of numbers they’d like to improve in, but for the Blues, it’s been a strong start, especially on the penalty kill under new assistant coach Greg Cronin with a 14-for-15 start (93.3 percent), which is good for fourth in the NHL while overall, allowing 3.20 goals-per game which is overinflated by the 6-1 debacle loss to the Colorado Avalanche.

“Incredibly happy with our D-zone coverage and our tracking, very happy with our D-corps and their aggressiveness, 200-foot hockey,” Blues coach Jim Montgomery said Monday. ‘Too inconsistent with our offensive habits of having someone at the net and having two on the inside. Our reloads have been inconsistent, which has led to less O-zone time as well and PK, very good; PP, not good enough. Goaltending has been good.

“I think our defensive sticks are vastly improved. We cause way more turnovers on forecheck, D-zone coverage, neutral zone. It’s been an emphasis of the staff, but again, a lot of that PK credit goes to Greg Cronin. He was brought here to improve our defensive habits and so far, he’s done an excellent job in it, and I know it’s a small sample size, but our players like the way we’re penalty-killing. They like the aggressiveness of it.”

The power play is 29th at 9.3 percent, which is just 1-for-11, also under a new assistant coach in Vinny Prospal.

On Monday, the Blues ran Adam Jiricek at the point on one unit, with Robert Thomas and Dylan Holloway on the flanks, Jake Neighbours on the bumper and Jimmy Snuggerud at the net front, while Cam Fowler ran the other point along with Connor McMichael and Mason McTavish on the flanks, Pavel Buchnevich in the bumper and Dalibor Dvorsky at the net front.

“It’s good to give penalty kills different looks and obviously we weren’t generating much previously,” Montgomery said. “Our last game on the power play, we only had one opportunity, but the chances were significantly better and the puck movement was better.”

The idea now is to draw more power play chances, with the team only averaging just over two per game.

- - -

More to Saturday’s win included the fight Ross Johnston had with Blue Jackets enforcer Mathieu Olivier, one of the tougher customers in the league:

It came in the first minute of the second period with the Blues down 2-0 and now showing much jump.

Johnston gave his teammates no indication it was coming and feels it’s probably better that way.

“The game happens so fast,” Johnston said. “So many things can lead to certain things. I’m not necessarily a premeditated person. I’d be lying to you if I said I wasn’t thinking about it. I think you’re pretty aware of who every team has, so on, so forth. I don’t talk it up, I don’t brush it up. You brush it off when it goes wrong and doesn’t look good if you talk about it and it goes well, it still doesn’t look good. I don’t talk about it, things can happen in a game and it can come out of nowhere. Let things fall is what I’m trying to say.

“(Olivier’s) tough. He’s as tough as they come. He plays the game the right way, plays the game honest and plays a lot. I’ve got a lot of respect for a guy like that.”

Montgomery said he had no idea it was coming.

“I don’t know him well enough to know that yet, and it’s great to see,” he said. “I know I don’t want that job.”

Part of the job Montgomery did say he likes is Johnston’s ability to talk on the bench and on the ice that seems to spark his teammates.

“I don’t know, you get comfortable the older you get maybe,” Johnston said. “The teams I’ve been on, you see how they had success and you see certain plays that have success. I think I’ve seen both sides of that. I think being able to watch the game and seeing little plays, maybe give little IQ’s to help the team out, especially when it’s not going well is maybe where it stems from. Just trying to be a little bit vocal and if it gets too quiet, talk to the boys, keep everything light. We’ve been in every game we’ve played so far (except Colorado). Just got to keep rolling the way we have been.”

- - -

The Blues did not hold a morning skate on Tuesday but did show off their projected lineup, and it appears Dylan Peterson will make his NHL debut in front of family and friends after being recalled from Springfield of the American Hockey League on Sunday.

Peterson is expected to move into the lineup for Zach Dean.

Also, Joel Hofer is expected to start in goal.

- - -

Blues Projected Lineup:

Dylan Holloway-Robert Thomas-Jimmy Snuggerud

Connor McMichael-Mason McTavish-Jonatan Berggren

Jake Neighbours-Dalibor Dvorsky-Pavel Buchnevich

Ross Johnston-Pius Suter-Dylan Peterson

Philip Broberg-Adam Jiricek

Justin Barron-Colton Parayko

Cam Fowler-Brandon Carlo

Joel Hofer is projected to start in goal; Jordan Binnington would be the backup.

Healthy scratches could include Zach Dean and Theo Lindstein. Alexey Toropchenko (upper body), Tyler Tucker (knee), Logan Mailloux (hand) and Dillon Dube (neck) are out.

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Senators Projected Lineup:

Warren Foegele-Tim Stutzle-Drake Batherson

Andre Burakovsky-Dylan Cozens-Ridly Greig

Michael Amadio-Shane Pinto-Claude Giroux

Fabian Zetterlund-Stephen Halliday-Nick Cousins

Thomas Chabot-Jordan Spence

Tyler Kleven-Carter Yakemchuk

Hoyt Stanley-Jorian Donovan

Samuel Ersson is projected to start in goal; Linus Ullmark would be the backup.

Healthy scratches could include Hayden Hodgson. Jake Sanderson (undisclosed), Artem Zub (knee), William Eklund (ankle), Kurtis MacDermid (upper body) and Cameron Crotty (illness) are out. Nikolas Mantipalo (upper body) departed Monday night’s game and is questionable.

Blue Note+ To Simulcast 10 Games Over-The-Air Exclusively On Gray Media’s First Alert ABC During 2026-27 SeasonBlue Note+ To Simulcast 10 Games Over-The-Air Exclusively On Gray Media’s First Alert ABC During 2026-27 SeasonGray’s newly acquired ABC affiliate (ABC 32) in St. Louis and affiliates in 10 other markets will air Blues games on select Thursday's throughout the season beginning Oct. 22St. Louis Blues Prospect Report (Oct. 11): Throw Those Hats For Maddox Dagenais; Aleksanteri Kaskimaki Continues to Press For His OpportunitySt. Louis Blues Prospect Report (Oct. 11): Throw Those Hats For Maddox Dagenais; Aleksanteri Kaskimaki Continues to Press For His Opportunity2026 first-round pick nets hat trick for Quebec; after impressing in NHL training camp, Springfield forward keeps pushing to get his chance with Blues
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Kyle Anderson speaks on Jamal Shead, Lil Wayne, and his place on the Raptors

Kyle Anderson doesn’t want to ruffle any feathers.

At least, that’s what Slo Mo, the 13 year NBA veteran, said during last Wednesday’s practice.

“I don’t want to be like, ‘oh, I’m the old head. 
You gotta do it my way,’” said Anderson. The former Timberwolf understands that he’s from a different era of NBA players. “There’s a whole generation after me that came in,” said Anderson. “These guys are 22 years old. That’s crazy to me.”

33 year old Anderson is one of the Raptors’ latest additions to the roster, making his way from Minnesota to Ontario, and the forward seems to be embracing a mentor role on his new team, while not trying to make everyone see his way.

“I don’t like to impose myself like that,” he said, speaking about the young players on the Raptors.
“They want to come into my world, then yeah, you know, I’ll show you what I’m listening to,” Anderson explained, drawing the line at telling his teammates to “listen to this Jay-Z or [that they] gotta listen to this Lil Wayne. They gonna be looking at me like I’m crazy.”

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA – OCTOBER 10: Kyle Anderson #13 of the Toronto Raptors reacts during the preseason game between Los Angeles Clippers and Toronto Raptors at Rogers Arena on October 10, 2026 in Vancouver, British Columbia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elizabeth Ruiz Ruiz/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Asked about how he gelled with his younger peers on the Raptors, Anderson explained that “we spent, you know, more time, more time than NBA teams, usually… uh, spend together in the summer.” Even beforehand, the forward had kept his eyes on some of Toronto’s guards. “I always got like a group of young guys that I enjoy watching in the league,” he noted, “and Jamal, every time I would watch him, he was able to affect the game without scoring… I just enjoyed watching him, like how they played hard, played together, um, always like in the gaps in the passing lanes.”

When asked about the type of role he might take on the Raptors, the veteran described a conversation with coach Darko Rajaković, where the coach described that Anderson “need[s] to be ready to play the 5… maybe handle the ball, you know, things like that… I’m comfortable there and I think the game is shifted to kind of a small ball 5 at times,” the player said.

The Raptors have struggled publicly with depth at the centre position, and ESPN’s depth chart notes that behind Jakob Poeltl and Collin Murray-Boyles lies Trayce Jackson-Davis followed by Jamison Battle, with Kyle Anderson listed as a third string power forward. It seems that there may be situations in which Anderson is lining up at the pivot instead, however, with Rajaković potentially betting on Anderson’s combination of defensive prowess and experience.

“I think he wants me to come in here and use my veteran experience, you know, help out,” said Anderson. “We have a young team, so help out the young guys. Just be there for them. 
It’s a long season.” Indeed. The 82 game stretch is a false finish line, with the Raptors likely to make the playoffs this season. Toronto will use Anderson’s depth and veteran presence to take its young core far, and Slo Mo seems happy to be along for the ride.

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Blackhawks Vs Penguins: Projected Lineup, How To Watch, & More Ahead Of Game 7

The Chicago Blackhawks (1-5-0) will take on the Pittsburgh Penguins (3-2-1) for Tuesday night action at the United Center. Three of the game’s greatest of all time, Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Patrick Kane, are going to share the ice once again. 

The Blackhawks are coming off a terrible loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, while the Penguins earned a big shootout win over the Dallas Stars last time out. In most years, a Tuesday night in October between two teams from the opposite conference won’t build too much excitement. However, this is a special scenario. 

For one, this game is going to be a part of the NHL’s Frozen Frenzy. Starting at 5 PM CT, every team in the NHL will play with staggered start times. The Blackhawks are right in the middle of it with their game against the Penguins. 

Scouting Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Penguins overachieved in 2025-26, and they are trying to do so again in 2026-27. With their core aging, the rest of the group is young and trying to establish themselves in the NHL. 

Rakell-Crosby-Rust

Chinakhov-Novak-Malkin

Kuzmenko-Kindel-Koivunen

Dewar-Lizotte-Robertson

Carlile-Karlsson

Girard-Korczak

Stastney-Letang

Andrei Kuzmenko was not in the lineup last game due to injury, but you can expect him back against the Hawks. If he does, in fact, play, the second line with Novak and Malkin is where he’ll slot in. 

Former Blackhawks defenseman Trevor Van Riemsdyk will not be on the early part of Pittsburgh’s trip due to injury, so he won’t have a chance to skate in the building where he won a Stanley Cup. 

Even in the year 2026, most of what Pittsburgh does goes through Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang. They also have Erik Karlsson now, who is an older player in the league but still borderline elite. 

Although Malkin doesn’t play center as much anymore, he is still incredibly effective when it comes to helping drive a line offensively. Between him and Crosby, Blackhawks defenders will have their hands full. 

Whether it’s Arturs Silovs or Sergei Murashov in net, the Penguins could use an upgrade. However, these guys are capable of making saves as long as the team in front back-checks hard, breaks the puck out, and doesn’t make bad turnovers. 

Projected Lines, Defense Pairs, & Goalie For Chicago

The Blackhawks are going to, at long last, have Connor Bedard back in the lineup. He has spent the off-season, training camp, and the first couple of weeks of the season recovering from shoulder surgery that he had early in the summer. 

Now, after intense dedication to working his way back, he is going to get in the lineup to try to help his team win. With him centering the top line, this is what the Hawks will look like: 

Kantserov-Bedard-Kane 

Bertuzzi-Frondell-Teravainen

Smith-Greene-Greenway 

Moore-Toninato-Donato

Byram-Levshunov

Vlasic-Cole

Kaiser-Rinzel

Knight

Nick Lardis is going to be the healthy scratch, with Connor Bedard coming back. With Frank Nazar out due to a suspension, they are keeping Dominic Toninato up to play center. When Nazar returns, Toninato will return to the Rockford IceHogs. Whether Lardis stays as the healthy scratch with both Bedard and Nazar in the lineup remains to be seen. 

Spencer Knight is projected to start for Chicago. He comes in with a 1-3-0 record, a 3.80 goals-against average, and an .885 save percentage. Those brutal numbers are more on his team’s defense in front of him, but even he would admit that there is another level he can get to. If he reaches that level soon, his numbers will start to be more on par with his career totals. 

Bedard's First Game As Captain, Playing Alongside Patrick Kane

Connor Bedard's 2026-27 Debut Will Be His First Game As Captain & First Alongside Patrick KaneConnor Bedard's 2026-27 Debut Will Be His First Game As Captain & First Alongside Patrick KaneThe Chicago Blackhawks will have Connor Bedard back in the lineup on Tuesday. This will be his first game as captain and his first with Patrick Kane.

How To Watch

The game can be heard locally on AM 720 WGN in the Chicagoland area. It can be seen locally on CHSN. Nationally, you can stream it on ESPN+. The puck will drop shortly after 7:00 PM CT. 

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Preseason Game Preview: Knicks at Raptors, October 13, 2026

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 10: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks drives to the basket during the game against the Toronto Raptors on April 10, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. 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 Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The ramp-up to the regular season continues tonight when the World Champion Knicks travel to Scotiabank Arena to face the Raptors. Toronto has split its first two scrimmages, beating the Clippers and falling to Miami, while New York has dropped three straight.

Tonight’s tilt will be a showcase for the reserves, as coach Mike Brown intends to sit his starters. It’s the second night of a back-to-back. How will their bench hold up while, we’re told, Toronto will get its first play from Kawhi Leonard? Methinks trouble be in the cards, prognostication fans.

The two teams last met on April 10 at MSG. The good guys won 112-95. Captain Jalen Brunson dropped 29, Karl-Anthony Towns added 22 and 10. Scottie Barnes and Brandon (no longer with the team) Ingram each posted 15 for Toronto. New York has beaten the Raptors 13 straight times in the regular season! (Probably a good thing that tonight won’t count.)

Last season was a positive step forward for the Toronto. Despite some poorly timed injuries, Darko Rajakovic’s club secured the fifth seed, finished 46-36, and were a top-five defense. Their offense was middle of the pack, a problem addressed with the offseason acquisition of Kawhi (celebrated pitchman) Leonard.

Kawhi was their big move this summer. The blockbuster return of Kawhi Leonard (finalized in mid-September after an NBA investigation delayed a deal originally made inn June) sent Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, second-rounders in 2030 and 2033, and a 2027 first-round swap to the Clippers. He then signed a two-year, $115 million extension. Beyond that, Toronto drafted forward Allen Graves 19th overall and guard Jaden Bradley 50th, added veteran forward Kyle Anderson on a one-year minimum, re-signed Alijah Martin, and extended guard Jamal Shead to a three-year, $24 million deal. They lost Sandro Mamukelashvili and Jonathan Mogbo in free agency.

OAKAAKUYOAKs RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley remain key players in their program, as does Scottie Barnes. A serviceable, but aging, Jakob Poeltl anchors the paint with solid rebounding and rim protection. Leonard, making his preseason debut, will be an upgrade from Ingram, provided he stays healthy.

We’re just as curious as you to see tonight’s starting lineup for New York. Last night, the club fell 122-104 to a Timberwolves team that was determined to pull on Superman’s cape under the bright lights of Broadway. Against the Raps, we should see extended time for Deuce McBride, Tyler Kolek, and Landry Shamet, and hopefully better play from Mohamed Diawara. As for the center battle, James Wiseman, Drew Eubanks, and Tony Bradley will have yet another opportunity to win over coach Brown.

Prediction? Probably a loss, hoss. Enjoy the bonus basketball.

Game Details

Who: New York Knicks (0-3) at Toronto Raptors (1-1)
Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Place: Scotiabank  Arena, Toronto, ON
TV: MSG
Follow: @ptknicksblog and bsky

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The Washington Nationals have built up a very deep farm system under Paul Toboni

WASHINGTON, DC - AUGUST 31: Washington Nationals prospects Seaver King, Miguel Sime Jr., Eli Willits, and Maxwell Romero Jr. stand with assistant general manager Devin Pearson while being recognized as the organization's 2026 Minor League Award winners before the game between the Washington Nationals and the Miami Marlins at Nationals Park on August 31, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) | Getty Images

When Paul Toboni took over as Nationals President of Baseball Operations last year, one of his main goals was to build a “scouting and player development monster”. We saw plenty of development at the MLB level, but the minor leagues is where we really saw the fruits of Toboni’s labor. The Nationals farm system is the healthiest it has been in a long time.

The system may have had more blue chip talent in the 2023-2024 days, but we have never seen this kind of depth. Having a deep farm system allows you to do a lot of different things. You can replace players easily, but you can also use that depth in trades to fill holes that way. It is a luxury the Nationals have not often had.

While the depth is the strength of this farm system, the Nats do have a blue chip prospect at the top. Even though he was the first overall pick in the 2025 draft, Eli Willits still exceeded expectations in his first full pro season. He hit .265 with an .869 OPS across three levels and reached Double-A as an 18 year old. Willits also slugged 14 homers despite not being known as a power hitter.

Willits established himself as a top 10 prospect in the sport this year, and should be the Nats shortstop of the future. As the son of a big leaguer, Willits has an extremely high baseball IQ, hardly ever makes errors and puts together great at bats. He also runs very well, has good bat to ball skills and is growing into average power. You can see the path to 5 WAR seasons for Willits. His game reminds me a lot of Geraldo Perdomo on the D-Backs.

However, this Nats system is a lot more than just one player. In fact, I think the most impressive part of this year at the minor league level is how many players just came out of nowhere. Several players who either weren’t on my radar or had fallen off the radar had ultra impressive seasons.

A great example of that is Maxwell Romero Jr., who had a breakout year. The 25 year old catcher was a 9th round pick in 2022, who was having an unremarkable pro career in the Nats organization. He was closer to being released than making the big leagues. The arrival of the new regime changed everything for him though.

Romero started the year in AA, where he used his power and patience to destroy the competition. Once he got to AAA, he just kept on rolling. For the season, Romero hit .253 with an .879 OPS and 23 homers. His .881 OPS in AAA was nearly identical to his .878 mark in AA.

Despite the great season, Romero is not even a top 30 prospect in the Nats system according to MLB Pipeline or Baseball America. Despite his production, Romero strikes out a ton, nearly 35% of the time on the season. There is a decent chance he does not turn into anything at the MLB level. However, before this season, he did not look anywhere near a big leaguer. Now he has a path to being a power first backup catcher.

Cayden Wallace is another one of these older prospects who broke out. Given Wallace’s previous pedigree and contact skills, I am probably higher on him. The point is that the Nats are developing a lot of bodies who deserve looks in the big leagues. Not all of them will work out, but some of them will. That is why you build depth.

Another reason to build farm depth is for trades. Whether it is this offseason, next deadline or in windows to come, the Nats now have plenty of ammunition to make trades. If the Nats are in the playoff mix in July of next year, they have the chips to make a deal and still have a healthy farm. 

Honestly, I think the system could take further strides in 2027. There are a lot of players who seem to be right on the cusp of breaking out if they can fix one or two things. An example of that is Miguel Sime Jr., the Nats 4th rounder from 2025. Sime has a triple-digit fastball and a pair of nasty breaking pitches with his slider and curveball. When he is at his best, Sime is devastating.

In his first pro season, Sime did a lot of great things. He pitched to a 2.99 ERA with 130 strikeouts in 72.1 innings. Batters only hit .153 against Sime this season. However, he walked 64 batters in those 72.1 innings. He will never have great control, but if he can drop his 20% walk rate down to 12-15%, he can become a top 100 prospect. Ronny Cruz, Coy James and Landon Harmon are also good examples of prospects on the cusp of fully breaking out.

Not all of these guys will hit, but Toboni has collected such a stockpile of talent, the odds are that enough of them will. He is also not leaving this purely to chance either. The way the Nats have improved their player development system has been really impressive. Minor League results are not everything, but you can see the improvements in those results.

In 2025, the Nats had a .463 winning percentage in the minors and a -377 run differential. As of August 25th of 2026, which is the most recent data I could find, the Nats had a .520 winning percentage and a +124 run differential. On the pitching side, no organization had allowed fewer runs than the Nats. Hopefully that starts to translate at the MLB level as well. 

We also got to see Paul Toboni’s first draft as the Nats POBO this year. The first player he selected was Chris Hacopian, a local kid with an elite bat. Hacopian only played 13 pro games, but we got a glimpse of his exciting offensive toolset. He has a great combination of contact skills, plate discipline and raw power. The key will be to tap into that raw power more consistently in games.

I am excited to see how this first class of Toboni recruits performs next season. We could be watching them very closely given the lockout situation. If we can only watch the minor leagues to start next year, there are certainly worse farm systems to be monitoring.

It is only year one, but we are already seeing Paul Toboni make a serious mark on this organization. I touched on some of the standouts on the farm, but there are so many others. We wrote about Seaver King’s rise the other day and there are many more exciting players in the system. Hopefully these prospects can link up with the Nats existing young nucleus and make up the foundation of the next great Washington Nationals team.

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MLB Playoff Roundup: Brewers and David Hamilton put pressure on Dodgers, Guardians stay surging

Milwaukee Brewers third baseman David Hamilton (6) celebrates scoring with Milwaukee Brewers catcher William Contreras (24) of their National League Championship Series game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at American Family Field on Oct 12, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co

Brewers 7, Dodgers 4 (BOX SCORE)
(MIL leads 2-0)

The trade for Caleb Durbin was mutually beneficial for the Red Sox and the Brewers. But, it’s easy to see the impact that David Hamilton’s speed has on this Brewers team. The 29-year-old utility infielder started at third as he has much of the season on Tuesday night, and, more importantly, batted ninth. He ended up on base three times, and was able to score each of those times. His biggest moment came in the eighth inning, when Brice Turang took Edgardo Henriquez into the perfect spot of the outfield and scored Hamilton. The Dodgers then brought in Justin Wrobleski, who was fantastic for them in 2026, to face Jake Bauers with Edgardo Henriquez’s inherited runners hanging in the balance. For the second consecutive at-bat, the ball was driven exactly where it needed to be, and the score was 7-4. The Dodgers are now down two games in a series for the first time in six years… though, yes, they did come back to win that series.

Guardians 7, Rays 3 (BOX SCORE)
(CLE leads 1-0)

The Guardians are getting scorching hot at the right time, and that’s usually a formula for deep October run. It’s even tougher for Tampa knowing they used Drew Rasmussen, who went six-plus innings and struck out eight, and now still face a deficit after one game. Rasmussen came out for the seventh even after allowing a home run to Chase DeLauter in the sixth, and promptly allowed a second solo shot to Patrick Bailey to tie the game at two. The Rays would then piecemeal together a six-man pitching staff to finish this one out while trailing, and although Cedric Mullins hit a homer of his own, the Rays couldn’t climb out of the hole. The Guardians have now won four straight, thanks largely to scoring late. And don’t look now, but Jose Ramirez is looking every bit of a signature clutch player, as he has an OPS well over 1 in October and added three hits on Monday.

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2026 report cards: Bryse Wilson

TAMPA, FLORIDA - MARCH 14, 2026: Bryse Wilson #48 of the Philadelphia Phillies pitches during the first inning of a game against the New York Yankees at George M. Steinbrenner Field on March 14, 2026 in Tampa, Florida. The Phillies beat the Yankees, 6-4. (Photo by Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images

After a shaky beginning to his major league career, Bryse Wilson spent 2023 and 2024 as a decent middle/long reliever for the Milwaukee Brewers, recording a 2.40 ERA in 87 games across the two seasons. He moved to the White Sox for 2025 and was far less effective, with a 6.65 ERA in 20 games.

The Phillies signed him, thinking they could make him a starting pitcher in the minors, and he would serve as rotation depth. He began the year with Lehigh Valley and had a rough start to his season, though he did show some improvement in June, throwing 12 consecutive scoreless innings.

There were some roster machinations – presumably due to an upward mobility clause in his contract – where he was released, re-signed, and eventually promoted to the big-league team.

He finally appeared in a game with them on June 18th, with the Phillies trailing by three runs. Wilson was brought in to absorb a couple of innings and hopefully keep the game within reach. He did his job, delivering two scoreless innings, though the Phillies weren’t able to complete the comeback.

Apparently, that wasn’t enough to impress the team. He was optioned after the game and claimed by the Cubs.

The stats: 1 game, 2 IP, 0.00 ERA, 0 K, 1 BB

What went right

Two innings pitched, zero runs allowed certainly isn’t the worst performance by a Phillies player in 2026. While his overall numbers at AAA were bad, he was striking out a lot of batters, and was victimized by awful batted ball luck.

What went wrong

His poor numbers as a starter in the minors (even if they were somewhat due to bad luck) gave the Phillies no confidence he could be used in that role in the majors. That says a lot considering that the Lehigh Valley rotation was largely a wasteland in 2026.

The future

He’s on his second team since leaving the Phillies, and might even get a World Series ring with the Brewers. So he’s got that going for him.

Final grade: Incomplete

The Phillies hoped that Wilson could serve as rotation depth, but he was simply not good at being a starter in the minors. He’s been passable for the Brewers in a low-leverage role, and that might be his ultimate fate.

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Arizona Fall League Update: October 3-12, 2026

Colby Shelton crosses the plate after crushing a grand salami, pulling the Dogs even and giving the scoreboard operator some catching up to do. | (Arizona Fall League/Instagram)

The Arizona Fall League is underway, and Chicago has sent a full cavalry of nine prospects, headlined by Caleb Bonemer, 3B/SS/OF (No. 2/MLB No. 27), to the Grand Canyon State. Rounding out the crew are Mathias LaCombe, RHP (No. 17); Pierce George, RHP (No. 18); Anthony DePino, 1B (No. 21); Colby Shelton, INF (No. 23); Nick Altermatt, RHP; Jonathan Clark, RHP; Grant Magill, C; and Garrett Wright, RHP.

The White Sox prospects are suiting up for the Glendale Desert Dogs, sharing the dugout with hopefuls from the Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, Miami Marlins, and Pittsburgh Pirates.

Chicago ties Los Angeles for sending the most Top 30 prospects (five) to the AFL.

Salt River Rafters 9, Glendale Desert Dogs 4 (10/3/26)
Despite the loss, Chicago’s prospects brought some life to the bats. Bonemer went 2-for-5 with three RBIs, coming through with a two-out, bases-clearing double in the bottom of the ninth to cut the deficit to 9-4. It was too little, too late, but we’ll take the clutch knock.

He also patrolled center field, getting the outfield reps that are a big reason for his AFL assignment. Unfortunately, the defensive side wasn’t quite as pretty. The 21-year-old made a throwing error after a fifth-inning sac fly that helped drive in three unearned runs. Yikes.

Shelton finished 1-for-4, with his lone hit kicking off the ninth-inning rally.

Scottsdale Scorpions 5, Glendale Desert Dogs 2 (10/4/26)
This one had a little good, a little bad and a whole lot of free passes — nine from Chicago’s pitchers. Bonemer kept the bat rolling, going 2-for-4 with an RBI double and a walk while Shelton added a single in four trips and backstop Magill went 0-for-3 in his AFL debut.

On the mound, five Sox hurlers got their turn, with mixed results. Altermatt earned a hold with a scoreless, hitless fourth, although the 27-year-old issued two walks. George followed with a messy fifth, surrendering a run without allowing a hit. Three walks, a wild pitch and a hit batter will do that. He got tagged with a blown save before LaCombe secured the final out of the frame. Unfortunately, the righthander ran into his own trouble in the sixth, allowing two runs on three hits, including a homer, and two more free passes.

Wright took over with two outs and stopped the bleeding, then worked around a leadoff single and a two-out walk in a scoreless seventh. Clark handled the final two frames, allowing one last run on a walk, wild pitch and single. The bats offered some promise, but the pitching made Glendale work awfully hard for its outs.

Surprise Saguaros 8, Desert Dogs 7 (10/5/26)
The Desert Dogs are still hunting for their first victory after an 8-7 walk-off loss in this one. It was a quiet day for Chicago’s prospects, with almost everyone getting the day off, but Shelton made his brief appearance count. After entering as a defensive replacement in the bottom of the eighth, he came up in the ninth with a runner on second, one out, and the Dogs trailing 7-6. Shelton smashed an RBI single to center to tie it up, giving the Dogs a little hope of finally cracking the win column. Unfortunately, the Saguaros had other plans, walking it off in the bottom of the ninth and keeping that first W just out of reach.

Desert Dogs 4, Mesa Solar Sox 3 (10/6/26 — 10 innings)
The Dogs finally got their first win, and Chicago’s prospects had their fingerprints all over this one. After a wild pitch brought home their first tally in the fourth, Shelton plated the second run with a sac fly in the sixth. With the game still tied after nine, Bonemer played hero in the top of the 10th, knocking an RBI single to bring home what proved to be the winning run.

Shelton and Bonemer drove in the contest’s only two earned runs, while Magill chipped in a pair of hits, going 2-for-4. Altermatt handled the final bit of business, getting the last out in the bottom of the 10th to earn his first save and finally put a W next to the Dogs’ name.

Peoria Javelinas 10, Desert Dogs 2 (10/8/26)
This was an ugly L, but the South Siders supplied some of the few bright spots. Bonemer was the only Chicago hitter to see action and accounted for two of the team’s six hits, going 2-for-4 with a double. LaCombe and Wright did their part on the mound, each tossing two scoreless innings amid the mess. LaCombe allowed no hits, walked two and struck out one, while Wright surrendered a pair of singles and one free pass, fanning four. A rough day for the Dogs, but at least the Sox contingent did their part.

Salt River Rafters 13, Desert Dogs 9 (10/9/26)
The Dogs landed on the wrong side of a football score in this loss, but Bonemer and Magill did their best to keep the offense rolling. Bonemer kept finding his way on base, swatting a triple to center in the fifth and finishing 1-for-4 with a run, an RBI and a walk.

Magill brought the hottest bat of the bunch, going 2-for-3 with a bases-clearing double, four RBIs and a run scored. Shelton couldn’t join the hit parade, finishing 0-for-4 with a punchout. On the mound, Altermatt worked the sixth, allowing one run on two hits while striking out two. Plenty of offense, just too much of it on the other side.

Surprise Saguaros 5, Desert Dogs 4 (10/11/26)
A close one, but Surprise spoiled the party with a walk-off in the bottom of the ninth. Shelton was the lone White Sox prospect to see action, entering as a defensive replacement in the bottom of the sixth. He went 0-for-2 in his two trips to the plate, dropping his average to .176 as he continues searching for a spark with the bat.

Scottsdale Scorpions 6, Desert Dogs 6 (10/12/26 — suspended)
The AFL website had the Dogs down for a 6-2 loss in seven innings, but apparently nobody told Shelton the game was over. MLB’s highlight clips showed him crushing a grand slam in the top of the eighth to tie it at 6-6 before play was suspended. His grand salami was the lone hit from Chicago’s prospects, as Shelton went 1-for-3 with the homer and a walk, while Bonemer finished 0-for-2 with a walk and a punchout. The scoreboard may need some work, but the video doesn’t. Enjoy the salami.

Hitters
Caleb Bonemer: 27 PAs, .333/.407/.542, .949 OPS, 3 2Bs, 1 3B, 6 RBIs, 3 BB, 6 Ks
Anthony DePino: did not play
Grant Magill: 12 PAs, .400/.417/.500, .917 OPS, 1 2B, 4 RBI, 1 BB, 2 Ks
Colby Shelton: 23 PAs, .158/.261/.158, .419 OPS, 1 HR, 6 RBIs, 2 BB, 2 Ks

Pitchers
Nick Altermatt: 3.86 ERA, 1.714 WHIP, 2 1/3 IP, 2 BB, 3 Ks
Jonathan Clark: 3.00 ERA, 0.667 WHIP, 3 IP, 1 BB, 3 Ks
Pierce George: did not play
Mathias LaCombe: 6.00 ERA, 2.333 WHIP, 3 IP, 4 BB, 2 Ks
Garrett Wright: 0.00 ERA, 1.500 WHIP, 3 1/3 IP, 2 BB, 7 Ks




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The Wizards are considering a rebrand after fan feedback

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 28: AJ Dybantsa #4 of the Washington Wizards poses for a portrait during Media Day at CareFirst Arena on September 28, 2026 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images). | Getty Images

The Washington Wizards are about to begin a new era led by forward AJ Dybantsa, Trae Young and Anthony Davis. Capital One Arena, their home venue, is also nearly done with a major renovation. And fans want a rebrand of the franchise.

When teams are not particularly great on the court, field, ice, etc., I can see why fans want the logo, colors or even a team name to change. But it appears that what fans are clamoring for isn’t simply white noise. Monumental Sports & Entertainment is looking into this as well.

According to Joshua Robbins of The Athletic, Monumental Sports & Entertainment executives are looking closely into the possibility of rebranding the team’s logos and/or color schemes. Here is a snippet from that piece regarding a possible rebrand happening when Capital One Arena’s renovations are complete.

“There’s a commitment to doing the homework and the research and to doing it really, really effectively and not doing things in the moment, so I think a lot of this will be an evolving process,” [MSE Chief Commerical Officer Jim] Van Stone said.

“(The) 2027-28 (season) is a big year for us because the building project will be completed. That’s a major element for us. Certainly, we will be in the mix of looking at uniform designs. … There’s an openness to that. Some of the long-term logos or other changes, probably a little bit of a longer runway. But I do think the feedback that we’re getting from fans puts us in a really good situation to evaluate all of that.”

One thing Monumental Sports isn’t considering is renaming the team. So a return to the Washington Bullets is not happening.

Though the Wizards have various alternates like every NBA team, their traditional red jerseys and white jerseys have largely remained the same since the 2011-12 season when Monumental Sports decided to change the color scheme to red, white and blue.

What do you think about the possibility of a rebrand? Let us know in the comments below.

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Delaware Blue Coats hire Brad Jones as general manager

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 22: A view of the ball sitting on the Philadelphia 76ers logo on the court during a game against the Houston Rockets at Xfinity Mobile Arena on January 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The NBA regular season is right around the corner, but it’s not the only level of basketball preparing for a new campaign. As the G League gears up for 2026-27, the Delaware Blue Coats are making a significant front-office change, hiring Brad Jones as their new general manager. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin was the first to report the news.

McMenamin reported that Jones was selected by Sixers President of Basketball Operations Mike Gansey and Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Jameer Nelson. He will take over a role previously held by Ariana Andonian, who departed to become general manager of the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks.

So, who is Jones?

He began his career with the Orlando Magic, where he overlapped with Nelson during the latter’s playing days. Jones worked his way up from an internship to positions on the team’s video and player personnel staffs. Most recently, he has worked in the NBA G League’s New York offices, handling player contracts, transactions, basketball operations and league affairs. Between his past stop(s) and his work with the G League office, he’s well equipped to run this team.

The Delaware Blue Coats’ roster is expected to feature several intriguing names this season, with two-way players Caleb Love and Rayan Rupert likely spending time in Delaware. The roster could become even more notable once NBA teams finalize their cuts, as players such as Tacko Fall, Saint Thomas and potentially Jameer Nelson Jr. could also join the fold. The Sixers also have a vacant two-way contract spot that they could fill in the coming weeks or months.

With a new general manager in place and another season on the horizon, the Blue Coats appear well-positioned to remain one of the G League’s more compelling teams. Delaware has consistently served as an important developmental pipeline for the 76ers, helping players earn opportunities at the NBA level while providing meaningful minutes for young prospects. Players such as Justin Edwards and Adem Bona have logged stints with the Coats in the past.

As roster decisions are finalized and training camps conclude, the Blue Coats’ roster picture will become clearer. Between established G League veterans, two-way players and potential additions following NBA cuts, there should be no shortage of storylines to follow once the season gets underway.

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Bucks Reacts Survey: Who should Milwaukee cut?

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 03: Caris LeVert #8 of the Detroit Pistons shoots the ball against Kyle Kuzma #18 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum on December 03, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Bucks fans and fans across the country.

The elephant has been in the (locker) room all offseason and, despite anticipation of its removal, it remains. Of course, this particular elephant is which players won’t make the final roster. With no two-for-one trades in sight, the Bucks currently carrying 17 standard contracts, and NBA teams only able to roster a maximum of 15 standard contracts during the season, Jon Horst and his staff will likely have to make the very difficult decision to waive two players. And that decision has to come soon—rosters must be set by 4:00 p.m. CT on October 19. So, which approach should they take?

Remove the dead wood

One option for Horst is to rid the roster of veterans who aren’t in the Bucks’ long-term plans. While plenty of fans would like this to include Gary Trent Jr., Milwaukee already has too much dead money on its books, so more likely veteran cut candidates are Kyle Kuzma and Caris LeVert. As the oldest players on the roster, Kuzma and LeVert could be cut without impacting the Bucks much on the court. However, doing so would mean Milwaukee no longer has their very tradable expiring salaries—$20.3m for Kuzma, $14.8m for LeVert—which, attached to draft capital or players with upside, could net the Bucks a quality player come trade deadline (or draft capital if the Bucks took on longer-term “bad” salary).

Bite the bullet on youth

On the other end of the spectrum, Horst could opt to cut youth that, for one reason or another, doesn’t seem to have the place on the roster it once might’ve. In this line of thinking, Bogoljub Marković is a prime candidate as he’s both a developmental project and on an inexpensive four-year, $9.3m contract that includes a team option in the final year. Outside of Marković, the options are less obvious. Kasparas Jakučionis’ name has recently been floated in the comments, but it’s hard to envision that scenario playing out given how insistent the Bucks were on him being included in the Giannis trade. Kevin Porter Jr., on the other hand, returned to the Bucks by exercising his $5.4m player option (i.e., not by negotiating a new deal with the team), has a history of injury, and isn’t likely to bring much back in a trade. Plus, Milwaukee’s guard room is crowded. Of course, he is one of the most talented players on the roster, so cutting him wouldn’t come without risk.

Take the easy way out

Somewhere in between the veteran and youth options is Pete Nance. It’s fitting, too. At 26, he’s not really a prospect anymore—yes, Porter is also 26, but his upside far exceeds Nance’s—and with only 68 career games he’s not exactly an established veteran either. More conveniently, at least from a roster-trimming perspective, he’s on a non-guaranteed deal. Truthfully, cutting Nance would hurt. After all, he’s an ideal third-string big, who makes the right play, spaces the floor, and does no harm. But he’s the easiest first step to solve the Bucks’ roster dilemma and would potentially (likely?) return to the team on a two-way deal anyway. Beyond Nance, things get a little more complicated, but Jericho Sims is the next “easiest” cut. Like Nance, he’s not old—Sims will turn 28 on October 20—but he’s certainly not young either and, at this point, he is who he is. Moreover, he’s on a measly one-year, $2.8m deal.

There you have it, three potential paths the Bucks could take to trim the roster to 15. Which strikes your fancy? Alternatively, you might want a combination of these—or something different entirely. If so, be sure to share your GM wheeling and dealing in the comments.


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Avalanche Rival Takes a Hit After Another Rough Night

Carter Hart has been a thorn in the Colorado Avalanche’s side before, helping the Vegas Golden Knights sweep Colorado in the Western Conference Final. But his latest outing was one he would probably like to forget, and it could open the door for Adin Hill to get another start.

Hart gave up three goals in just over five minutes during Monday’s 4-2 loss to the Minnesota Wild. Matt Boldy, Maxim Shabanov and Danila Yurov all scored in the first period, putting Vegas in an early hole.

Hart settled down after that, stopping the rest of the shots he faced. Vegas also made a push late in the game, with goals from Rasmus Andersson and William Karlsson cutting Minnesota’s lead to 3-2. However, Joel Eriksson Ek’s empty-net goal ended any hopes of a comeback.

Nazem Kadri speaks to the media following practice on Monday.

Hart finished with 24 saves on 27 shots, dropping to 3-2-0 in five starts this season. It was his second loss of the campaign and the second time in five appearances he has allowed more than two goals.

Adin Hill could get the chance to take over Tuesday against the Nashville Predators. According to reports, Hill is the likely starter as Vegas plays the second game of a back-to-back. Hart could return Thursday against the Calgary Flames.

For the Golden Knights, the priority is getting more consistent play in net. Both goaltenders have shown they can bounce back from rough starts, but Vegas cannot afford to keep digging itself into early holes.

And for Avalanche fans, Hart’s recent struggles are probably exciting to some degree, albeit it would be nice if that were to occur while both teams were facing off against one another.

The Golden Knights have eliminated the Avalanche in each of their last two playoff meetings, including a six-game series in 2021, when Colorado entered the postseason as the Presidents’ Trophy winners. If these rivals meet again in the playoffs, hopefully the Avalanche can turn the tables this time around.

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V.J. Edgecombe joins Jaylen Brown's stream to showcase Sixers' chemistry

V.J. Edgecombe joins Jaylen Brown's stream to showcase Sixers' chemistry originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

It didn’t take long for Jaylen Brown to bring one of his new Sixers teammates onto his Twitch stream.

On October 9, just one day before Philadelphia faced Boston in a preseason matchup, V.J. Edgecombe joined Brown on the stream. Brown, who was making his first return to TD Garden since joining the Sixers, did not play in the game and reportedly watched from the locker room.

Although Brown’s return to Boston drew attention, his focus is already on building chemistry with his new teammates in Philadelphia.

He recently spoke about his plans to bring more Sixers players onto his stream, explaining that several teammates had already expressed interest in joining him.

“I can’t wait to introduce you to some of my teammates who have been hitting me up like ‘I want to be on the stream’ so I can’t wait to tap in, for y’all to tap in with some of them.

“For the most part we’ve been vibing, man. Everything’s been smooth, we’ve just been getting acclimated.”

Brown also explained why he sees streaming as an opportunity to connect with his teammates beyond basketball.

“We ain’t gonna be on here doing nothing just letting you get to know us as human beings, being authentic, but also just building team chemistry. I think building chemistry is important for a team to be able to vibe in order to try to accomplish goals. I wasn’t as successful in my attempts of being able to get more guys on my previous team, so hopefully this team I’ll be able to be more successful in getting guys.”

Brown didn’t have to wait long to make good on that plan. Edgecombe soon joined the stream, giving the two an opportunity to get to know each other outside of the practice facility.

After briefly connecting with teammate Justin Edwards on FaceTime, Brown and Edgecombe turned their attention to getting to know each other better. Their conversation touched on Edgecombe’s upbringing in the Bahamas, his family and even a hypothetical question about which teammate he would choose to survive with on a deserted island.

Edgecombe’s answer? Brown.

It might seem like a small, lighthearted moment, but these are the kinds of interactions that can help teammates develop a connection away from the court.

With the regular season still ahead, Brown is already taking steps toward the team chemistry he believes is essential to success. And if his Twitch stream is any indication, those connections are beginning to take shape.

Edgecombe and Brown shared the court for the first time in the Sixers’ preseason opener against the Knicks on October 5. Just one game together was enough for Brown to come away impressed.

Their partnership is still taking shape, but Edgecombe already trusts Brown enough to pick him for a deserted island. Sharing an NBA court should give them plenty more opportunities to build on that.

The pair will put that chemistry to the test when the Sixers open the regular season against the defending champion Knicks on Oct. 20 at Madison Square Garden.

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Elephant Rumblings: Vogt To The World Series? And When Will The A’s Pick Their GM?

Mar 30, 2024; Oakland, California, USA; Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt (12) talks with media members before the game against the Oakland Athletics at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports | USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con

Welcome to Tuesday A’s fans.

The Cleveland Guardians won the first game of the ALCS, beating the Tampa Bay Rays 7-3 thanks to some late offense. That’s put the Guardians just three games away from the World Series. Since the Cubs’ record-breaking World Series win 2016 (over Cleveland of all teams), the Guardians’ franchise is the holder of the second-longest championship drought across all four major American sports leagues at 78 years(!). Only the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals have gone longer since their last ring. Lots of the baseball world is pulling for them because no city should have to wait that long for a parade.

A’s fans are also rooting not only for their fellow low-spending club, that team’s skipper is longtime Athletic and beloved member Stephen Vogt, who suited up for the A’s from 2013 to mid-2017, and then wrapped his career with one more season in the Green & Gold. Though he’s retired, he hasn’t left baseball, the dugout, or A’s fans hearts.

Always regarded as a future manager, he got that first gig faster than a lot of people probably expected, only spending one year with the Seattle Mariners as their bullpen coach before getting the Guardians’ gig, replacing another strong manager in Terry Francona. High expectations when you’re taking over for a Hall of Fame manager like Tito but his time guiding the Guardians has been nothing short of exceptional. He’s now got his team just three wins away from the World Series in his third year managing the ballclub. A’s fans don’t have much to root for left in these playoffs except for some good baseball, but seeing our beloved Vogt win a ring would be nice to see. Just wish he was the one managing the A’s.

While the Fall Classic is fast approaching and with it the offseason, the A’s still don’t yet have their next voice in the front office selected. Former Athletic Sam Fuld reportedly was offered the President of Baseball Operations role but rejected that and will stay second-in-command in Philadelphia. Red Sox executive Taylor Smith is rumored to be the pick but until there’s confirmation we can’t say for sure one way or the other. It’s going to be really interesting to see which direction the A’s go. Do they stick with experienced options like Mike Rizzo or do they go after a young guy like Smith? Still lots of candidates to choose from and with the postseason getting closer to its end the A’s will need to be making this decision soon. Perhaps even today.

Second game of the ALCS starts at 5:00 West Coast time. Have a great day guys.

A’s Coverage:

MLB News & Interest:

Best of X:

Some interesting insight:

That’s one way to view it:

Seconded!

If Ohtani doesn’t show up, we’ll have a new team raising the trophy soon:

Yeah, Dodgers fans don’t want to ride or die.