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LeBron James’ free agency decision timeline gets frustrating update

LeBron James speaking into a microphone with
New York, NY July 16, 2026 LeBron James made multiple high-profile appearances at Fanatics Fest NYC 2026, including a live recording of his Mind the Game podcast with Indiana Pacers...

The ball is in LeBron James’ court, and he intends to keep it there longer than anyone would like.

The entire basketball world is waiting with decreasing patience for James to announce which team he’ll join in free agency. While there were some rumors that LeBron’s decision could arrive as soon as Monday, an update from ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania revealed that the wait will continue.

LeBron James speaks during Fanatics Fest in New York City. BACKGRID

“I spoke to Rich Paul, [James’] longtime agent, this morning. And Rich Paul made it clear to me that the choice is LeBron James’ right now… There is no decision, no choice yet. There’s no timetable as of yet,” Charania said, per an X post from ESPN Cleveland on Monday.

Shams also noted that his understanding is that the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Miami Heat, and Philadelphia 76ers are the “focus” for LeBron and his team right now.

There were rumblings that LeBron’s decision might arrive on Monday, which was owed to an X post from Patrick Beverley that read, “Rumor has it Bron makes his decision today!!!” 

LeBron and Beverley spent time on the Lakers together during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, which convinced some that Beverley might have some insider information and his report might be accurate.

Patrick Beverley argues with a referee during a Los Angeles Lakers game. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post

But LeBron appeared to debunk that when he posted a video of Kevin Hart saying, “I don’t know who needs to hear this… Shut the f*** up. Shut the f*** up.” to his Instagram story on Monday, shortly after Beverley’s X post went viral.

There’s no way of knowing for sure whether this story was a reaction to what Beverley said, but the fact that this report from Charania surfaced shortly afterwards suggests that LeBron’s team was compelled to prove that what Beverley said was false.

LeBron James dribbles during a Los Angeles Lakers game. Getty Images

What is for sure is that many people in basketball are tired of waiting on LeBron. The NBA is eager to know his next team so they can set a national television schedule; the league’s 30 teams also want to finalize their respective rosters; and the other free agents are waiting to see where he ends up because that might impact their ultimate decision.

The bottom line is that LeBron has all the cards right now. It’s a good position to be in, and he appears to be basking in the limelight. Therefore, it would not be surprising to see him drag this decision out even longer in the days to come.

LeBron James speaks during Fanatics Fest in New York City. BACKGRID
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Is Justin Verlander a First-Ballot Hall of Famer?

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 14: Justin Verlander #35 of the Detroit Tigers looks on before the 2026 96th MLB All-Star Game at Citizens Bank Park on July 14, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Houston Astros/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Earlier this month Justin Verlander announced his plans to retire at the end of the season. The veteran right-hander has had about as storied a MLB career as is possible. He will leave the game as a former MVP, pitching triple-crown winner, three-time Cy Young winner, two-time World Series champion, and Rookie of the Year, among a long list of other accomplishments. In his prime he was not only the best pitcher in baseball but arguably the best player in the game.

Verlander will retire as the active wins leader in MLB with 266 wins over his 21-year career. Which means despite all of his accomplishments he will fall 25-30 wins short of one of the all-time immortal MLB pitching marks. While it’s basically an arbitrary number, reaching 300 wins for a pitcher means something. Only 24 players have ever reached that mark. Behind Verlander, the next highest active mark is his old teammate Max Scherzer with 222 wins. Scherzer has totaled all of eight wins over his last two-plus seasons, making it basically impossible to reach 300. After that there isn’t a single pitcher with even 100 wins under the age of 32.

It is a very real possibility that there will never again be a 300 game winner in MLB. The active pitchers right now that appear to have the best shot at getting there are José Berríos, Freddy Peralta, Logan Webb, and Tarik Skubal.

Because of the elite levels Verlander reached even without getting to 300 wins, there is no question about his eventual home in Cooperstown. Verlander is a no-doubt Hall of Fame player, the only question is when. As with everything in baseball, the speed at reaching the Hall of Fame is something of a competition in its own right. Voters will decide if Verlander gets the accolade of being a First Ballot HOF player or just a regular-old every day Hall of Famer.

Cast your vote now and be on the lookout for results of the voting later this week. Make sure you never miss any Reacts surveys or results by signing up for the weekly newsletter!

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Astros Reinstate Blanco, Sousa; Option King, Delgado

HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 11: Ronel Blanco #56 of the Houston Astros pitches during the game between the Los Angeles Angels and the Houston Astros at Daikin Park on Friday, April 11, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Logan Riely/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

Today, the Houston Astros officially announced the following roster moves:

  • RHP Ronel Blanco and LHP Bennett Sousa have been reinstated from the 60-day IL.
  • IF Raynel Delgado has been optioned to Triple A.
  • LHP Bryan King was optioned to Triple A after yesterday’s game.

Blanco will start tonight’s game against the Marlins at Daikin Park, joining the Astros battered rotation.

Sousa will likely reclaim a leverage role very soon, if not immediately. Sousa had ascended to being the primary setup man for Bryan Abreu after Josh Hader’s injury before he was injured himself.

King is suffering though the worst stretch of his career, having allowed 5 HR in his last 4 outings, including at least 1 HR allowed in each. King has been a valuable piece of the Astros pen since his call up in 2024, so it’s likely this demotion will either be only as long as it takes him to get right or until we find out he will be retroactively placed on IL.

Delgado’s versatility makes him a valuable depth piece, but with Jeremy Pena and Christian Walker avoiding the IL for the time being, doesn’t have a spot on the roster right now.

The Astros are now back to 13 pitchers and 13 position players on the active roster.

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Mariners complete the signing of their 2026 draft class

ARLINGTON, TX - MARCH 01: Ace Reese #3 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs celebrates during a game against the UCLA Bruins in the 2026 Amegy Bank College Baseball Series at Globe Life Field on March 1, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Gunnar Word/Texas Rangers/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Seattle Mariners reportedly have completed the signing process of their 2026 draft class, per Daniel Kramer of MLB.com, who also secured the details of the individual signing bonuses for each player. That is 18 new draftees entered into Seattle’s system, with only two players choosing to eschew the pros in favor of a college route: 18th round outfielder Dominic Santarelli of St. Joseph Catholic Academy in Wisconsin who will instead attend Louisiana State University, and 20th round 3B Connor Shouse out of Texas Tech University who was a draft-eligible sophomore and will return for his junior year.

It’s a more demure draft class than in years prior, and notably only includes college attendees, with Santarelli the only high schooler the club even selected. The M’s have hewed towards college performers plenty, but it was a striking level of singular focus. Seattle utilized $8,202,600 of their $8,218,200 bonus pool, reallocating their $460k in bonus pool savings from the first 10 rounds to securing several of their selections in rounds 11-14. The club reportedly had hopes of reeling in one or two prep talents, but was not able to financially draw Santarelli or Shouse away from school, and were wary of any of the remaining preps in the rounds of 11-20, opting for on-campus options instead.

The class of new players has continued to grow, however, with Baseball America reporting that Seattle has secured at least five additional players who went undrafted:

OF Kyle Boylston of Florida Atlantic University

C Jacob Galloway of Oregon State University

C Jake Harvey of University of Nevada

SS Henry Kaczmar of Ohio State University

RHP Joseph Webb of East Carolina University

While undrafted free agents are longshots for big league roles, there are several in recent years who have had big league time, including 1B Mike Ford and RHP Devin Sweet for the Mariners.

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A List Of NBA Draft Picks Out Of Villanova

Villanova has enjoyed great success and put itself in the conversation of blue blood territory in recent years.

This success dates back decades as the Wildcats have been sending players to the next level since 1950.

That year, Paul Arizin was selected third-overall by the Philadelphia Warriors. To this day, he remains as the highest-drafted player to come out of Villanova.

Arizin was also the first of nine players selected in the Top 10 in the NBA Draft and one of 66 total players.

The 2018 class had the most selections with four. Mikal Bridges led the way that year as the 10th overall selection while Donte DiVincenzo and Omari Spellman joined him in the first round. Jalen Brunson went on to be a second round selection as well.

With the addition of Luigi Suigo and others, it looks as though the list will grow in 2027 but for now, this is how it looks:

YearRoundPickPlayerTeam
195013Paul ArizinPhiladelphia Warriors
1950887Brooks RiccaPhiladelphia Warriors
195011119Leo WolfePhiladelphia Warriors
1952874Tom BrennanPhiladelphia Warriors
19521195Ben StewartPhiladelphia Warriors
195328Larry HennessyPhiladelphia Warriors
195320120Nick MaguireRochester Royals
1955317Bob SchaferPhiladelphia Warriors
1955533Jack DevinePhiladelphia Warriors
1959748Joe RyanPhiladelphia Warriors
1960862George RavelingPhiladelphia Warriors
1962214Hubie WhitePhiladelphia Warriors
196316Tom HooverPhiladelphia Warriors
1964318Wali JonesDetroit Pistons
196516Jim WashingtonSt. Louis Hawks
1965540Richie MoorePhiladelphia 76ers
1966219Bill MelchionniPhiladelphia 76ers
19661085Rich MooreNew York Knicks
196712129Frank GadjunasCincinnati Royals
196816197Joe CrewsPhiladelphia 76ers
1969684John JonesPhiladelphia 76ers
19708131Fran O’HanlonPhiladelphia 76ers
1971232Howard PorterChicago Bulls
19719143Clarence SmithGolden State Warriors
1972217Chris FordDetroit Pistons
1972450Hank SiemiontkowskiCleveland Cavaliers
1973227Tom IngelsbyAtlanta Hawks
197311174Ed HastingsBoston Celtics
19778168John OlivePhiladelphia 76ers
1978224Keith HerronPortland Trail Blazers
19788159Chubby CoxChicago Bulls
1980475Rory SparrowNew Jersey Nets
1981486Alex BradleyNew York Knicks
19817145Tom Sienkiewicz Seattle SuperSonics
1982598Aaron HowardNew York Knicks
1983124Stewart GrangerCleveland Cavaliers
1983358John PinoneAtlanta Hawks
19838181Mike MulguinPhoenix Suns
19848183Frank DobbsPhiladelphia 76ers
1985110Ed PinckneyPhoenix Suns
1985227Dwayne McClainIndiana Pacers
19857154Gary McLainNew Jersey Nets
1986117Harold PressleySacramento Kings
19866130Chuck EversonUtah Jazz
19876121Harold JensenCleveland Cavaliers
1989238Doug WestMinnesota Timberwolves
1995244Anthony PelleDenver Nuggets
199618Kerry KittlesNew Jersey Nets
199717Tim ThomasNew Jersey Nets
1997241Jason LawsonDenver Nuggets
1997247Alvin WilliamsPortland Trail Blazers
1999230John CelestandLos Angeles Lakers
2001117Michael BradleyToronto Raptors
200617Randy FoyeBoston Celtics
2006124Kyle LowryMemphis Grizzlies
2009233Dante CunninghamPortland Trail Blazers
2015238Darrun HilliardDetroit Pistons
2017130Josh HartUtah Jazz
2018110Mikal BridgesPhiladelphia 76ers
2018117Donte DiVincenzoMilwaukee Bucks
2018130Omari SpellmanAtlanta Hawks
2018233Jalen BrunsonDallas Mavericks
2019241Eric PaschallGolden State Warriors
2020119Saddiq BeyBrooklyn Nets
2021232Jeremiah Robinson-EarlNew York Knicks
2023120Cam WhitmoreHouston Rockets
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Drake Baldwin announced as National League Player of the Week

ATLANTA, GA - JULY 19: Drake Baldwin #30 of the Atlanta Braves celebrates after hitting a solo home run in the eighth inning during the game against the Texas Rangers at Truist Park on July 19, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Jack Casey/Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images

What a week for this guy, huh? First, he gets to go to his first-career All-Star Game as a player after getting voted in as a starter and now he’s ended what has had to have been a whirlwind week with a performance over the weekend that was so good that MLB has recognized him as the National League Player of the Week.

In the clearest sign yet that Baldwin is back in the form that earned him those All-Star honors, Baldwin had a massive series at the plate against the Rangers in Atlanta’s second-half opening series victory. The star catcher for the Braves racked up 10 hits (three of which were homers), eight RBI, five runs scored and he even threw in a stolen base as well. Five of those 10 hits came on Sunday alone, as Baldwin had himself a five-for-five game with two dingers. It was a dominant performance and one that was well worth the honor of getting named Player of the Week.

Here’s more from Major League Baseball’s official press release:

  • The 25-year-old hit .714 (10-for-14) with three homers, eight RBI, a walk, five runs scored, a stolen base, a 1.357 slugging percentage and a .733 on-base percentage in three games.
  • The Madison, Wisconsin native led the Majors in batting average, on-base percentage, slugging, OPS (2.090), hits and total bases (19); tied for first in RBI and runs scored; and tied for second in home runs.
  • One of 36 first-time All-Stars in 2026, Baldwin racked up a career-best five hits on Sunday against Texas, becoming Atlanta’s first player with a five-hit game since Whit Merrifield in August 2024. Baldwin is the youngest Brave to achieve the feat since Michael Harris II had a five-hit game in June 2023 at the age of 22, and he became the first Brave with multiple home runs as part of a five-hit performance since his teammate Ozzie Albies in June 2021. Baldwin is just the sixth player in Braves history with a five-hit game as a catcher, joining Johnny Estrada (2004); Eddie Perez (1999); Biff Pocoroba (1982); Walker Cooper (1951); and Hall of Famer Ernie Lombardi (1942). 
  • The 2025 NL Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year Award winner opened the second half with a three-hit, five-RBI game on Friday against Texas, becoming the second Brave this season with a five-RBI performance, joining fellow catcher Jonah Heim. The Braves are one of two clubs to have multiple games of at least five RBI by catchers this season, joining the Orioles, and it is just the fifth time in franchise history that the Braves have achieved the feat twice in a single season, joining 2006, 2003 (3x), 1966 and 1950.
  • The third-round pick in the 2022 Draft out of Missouri State University has not struck out in 34 consecutive plate appearances dating back to July 8th, marking the longest active streak in the Majors. With 10 hits and eight RBI in the three-game set with the Rangers, Baldwin became the first Braves player to reach those marks in a three-game set and the first to reach those marks in a series of any length since Harris had 10 hits and nine RBI against the Mets in a four-game series earlier this month.

This is the first time that a Braves player has been named Player of the Week so far this season and hopefully it won’t be the last, either.

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Bedard says Carlsson’s offer sheet had no effect on his thinking for Blackhawks contract

San Jose Sharks v Chicago Blackhawks

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - APRIL 15: Connor Bedard #98 of the Chicago Blackhawks looks on against the San Jose Sharks at the United Center on April 15, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images)

Getty Images

CHICAGO — Connor Bedard never wavered. Whenever the young center was asked about his future, he always responded with similar variations of the same message.

All the way to his $75 million, five-year contract with the Chicago Blackhawks.

“I’ve said (it) so much and it’s not anything fake. Chicago’s really, you know, the only place I want to play,” Bedard said.

Bedard’s new deal was announced on Saturday, a day after his 21st birthday. It provides a level of security for both Bedard and the rebuilding Blackhawks, even if it always seemed as if it was just a matter of the final numbers than any sort of question about the end result.

Some intrigue arrived when Leo Carlsson, another restricted free agent, signed a $90 million, five-year offer sheet with Philadelphia before going back to Anaheim when the Ducks decided to match the offer sheet. But Bedard stayed with his plans all along.

It was always Chicago.

“I’m very happy with the amount of money I’m making. You know, it’s a lot,” a chuckling Bedard said Monday in his first public comments since the deal was announced. “I think just with that, obviously the offer sheet is different as well. You know with a team trying to take a guy, it is going to be a different value. But for me, that didn’t change anything I was thinking.”

The final details were completed after Bedard had surgery on his left shoulder on July 8. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 draft is expected to miss the start of the season after he got hurt while skating with a group of NHL players in western Canada.

Bedard also missed 12 games last season after he hurt his right shoulder on a draw during a 3-2 loss at St. Louis on Dec. 12.

“You always do everything you can to try to prevent injury and stay healthy,” he said. “It’s a terrible part of the game but it’s something that you know I think for me to have this next little bit and go through that adversity and try to get stronger, you know, mentally in that way. That’s the way I’m trying to look at it and then come back.”

Bedard has been Chicago’s most important player since he made his anticipated NHL debut in October 2023. He continued his steady improvement in his third season, setting career highs with 30 goals and 45 assists in 69 games.

But he hasn’t experienced much winning since arriving in Chicago. The Blackhawks went 29-39-14 last season, an 11-point improvement on the previous season and still nowhere near playoff contention. 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 COVID-19 pandemic.

Looking to get the team back in contention, general manager Kyle Davidson swung a trade for defenseman Bowen Byram on June 23. The Blackhawks also signed forward prospect Roman Kantserov in May, and then added forward Cole Smith and defenseman Ian Cole on the first day of free agency.

“I think we’ve had a great summer,” Bedard said.

But Chicago could use another top-six forward, possibly to play alongside Bedard, and, well, Patrick Kane remains on the market as a free agent. The 37-year-old Kane, who helped the Blackhawks win three Stanley Cup championships before he was traded to the New York Rangers in February 2023, is reportedly considering a return to his first NHL team.

“That would be incredible to get to play with him and learn from him,” Bedard said. “So hopefully he decides to come back. ... You talk about kind of the legacy aspect of it, but just as a team, it would make us a way better team. He’s still an amazing player.”

With the contract completed, the next big moment for Bedard could be taking over as the 36th captain in franchise history. He became an alternate captain after the team traded away its entire leadership group in March.

“If I was able to get that honor, it would be so special and something that I know I wouldn’t take for granted for a second,” Bedard said. “But we got so many guys in the room that can lead.”

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Dodgers acquire reliever Seth Halvorsen from the Rockies for two minor league players

DENVER — Colorado Rockies general manager Josh Byrnes orchestrated a trade with his former team Monday, sending right-hander Seth Halvorsen to the Los Angeles Dodgers for two minor league players.

Halvorsen is eligible to come off the 15-day injured list after being placed on it earlier this month with inflammation in his right shoulder. He is 0-1 with a 4.74 ERA across 21 appearances this season.

As part of the deal, Colorado picked up right-handed pitcher Nick Frasso and outfielder Landyn Vidourek from the Dodgers.

Byrnes knows the Los Angeles farm system after spending more than a decade in the front office with the team. He left in December to join forces with Paul DePodesta, the Rockies’ president of baseball operations, in an effort to turn around a franchise that’s trying to break a string of three straight 100-loss seasons.

The 27-year-old Frasso was 1-0 with a 4.74 ERA with Triple-A Oklahoma City this season. He was picked up by the Dodgers as part of a deal with Toronto on Aug. 2, 2022. Frasso was ranked the 80th overall prospect in baseball before the 2024 season by MLB.com.

He will report to Triple-A Albuquerque.

Vidourek, a third-round pick out of the University of Cincinnati in 2025, is hitting .176 with eight home runs and 28 RBIs in the minors this season.

He will report to Single-A Fresno.

Colorado drafted Halvorsen in the seventh round out of Tennessee in 2023. The 26-year-old is 3-4 in 75 career games with the Rockies and has 13 saves.

The Rockies entered the day 23 1/2 games behind Los Angeles in the NL West.

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Braves announce signings of all 21 2026 MLB Draft Picks

ATLANTA, GA - JULY 17: Atlanta Braves 2026 First Round Draft Pick A.J. Gracia speaks with members of the media before the game against the Texas Rangers at Truist Park on July 17, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Jack Casey/Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Today the Atlanta Braves have announced that they have officially signed all 21 of their draft picks from last weekend’s 2026 MLB Draft. The class headlined by college outfielders AJ Gracia and Carter Beck, as well as overslot prep arms Kaiden McCarthy and Jensen Hirschkorn is made up of eight right-handed pitchers, two left-handed pitchers, four outfielders, two infielders, and five catchers.

It had already been announced that the Braves had signed their first 12 choices and the bonus figure for Cole Dorland had been leaked, but today’s announcement signifies that the final nine picks have come to terms – including Dorland. That list includes C Dominic Kibler, RHP Cole Dorland, RHP Brady Hamilton, OF Caleb Klein, C Dalton Harper, RHP John Damozonio, LHP Ethan Stade, C Austin Fawley, and RHP Nile Adcock.

This news is hardly surprising, as the Braves were always expected to sign all of these 2026 draft picks – however this is still a positive update as it means nothing fell through for any reason such as a failed physical or player changing his mind.

A complete recap of the draft can be found here from last week.

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LeBron James tells Patrick Beverley to ‘Shut the f— up’ with Kevin Hart’s help

nba legend lebron james and comedian kevin hart
lebron james at fanatics fan fest cropped next to comedian kevin hart

Just hours after Patrick Beverley posted to social media that he heard LeBron James would be making his decision on who he will play for next season, James opted to troll his former teammate.

James posted a video on his Instagram story of famous comedian and actor Kevin Hart saying, “Shut the f— up,” in reaction to his former teammate. That was followed by him leaving a comment that said “BINGO STFU.”

“I don’t know who needs to hear this, but I feel like it’s important. I feel like somebody needs to hear this: shut the f— up,” Hart said in the video, which is followed up by him repeating the phrase over and over again.

James’ Instagram story post came after Beverley tweeted that he could be making his decision on who his next team would be on Monday morning.

James and Beverley were once teammates for 45 games in 2022, until the latter was traded to the Orlando Magic in a four-team deal that resulted in him being waived and later signing with the Chicago Bulls.

The two have had a long-standing rivalry in the NBA. During a game between the Lakers and Bulls in 2023, Beverley infamously scored with a hook shot over James and lowered his hand, the universal sign in the NBA to say “he’s too small.”

Beverley had a 12-year career in the NBA and retired after the 2024 season. Now in his post-playing career, he is the host of a podcast “The Pat Bev Show.”

It’s too hard to tell if Beverley’s sources are correct that James will be making his decision soon, but it appears that the legendary figure will be taking his time.

At Fanatics Fest this past weekend, James did a live showing of his podcast Mind The Game and had Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton as a guest.

Haliburton tried to inject himself into finding out where James would play next by asking him personally, to which James replied: “Didn’t we already talk about this in the back,” thus forcing Haliburton to stay silent on the topic.

The interaction between the two gave NBA fans a glimpse that LeBron could be taking his time to make his decision, despite recently facing pressure from NBA commissioner Adam Silver to sign with a team soon, as there are lingering schedule implications surrounding his free agency.

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Mets activate Luis Robert Jr. from injured list

Luis Robert Jr. #88 of the New York Mets at bat against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on April 17, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.

The Mets have reinstated outfielder Luis Robert Jr. from the 60-day injured list, optioned infielder Eric Wagaman to Triple-A Syracuse, and outrighted fellow infielder Zack Short—who was designated for assignment a few days ago—to Syracuse.

Robert Jr. was one of several new acquisitions made by the Mets after the team decided to take a sharp turn from the majority of its former core at the start of the offseason. And like many of his teammates, he’s had an injury-marred and disappointing 2026 season thus far. After getting off to a hot start, Robert Jr. hit the injured list in late April with a .224/.327/.329 line, a 90 wRC+, and 0.1 fWAR. It’ll be interesting to see how often the Mets play him between now and the trade deadline, as he’s been double-Wally Pipped by young outfielders Carson Benge and A.J. Ewing since he was sidelined.

In the short term, perhaps Ewing will start regularly at second base—especially since 2025-26 offseason acquisition Marcus Semien has been terrible this year—to allow Robert to showcase his health and skills in center field ahead of the deadline. Robert is earning $20 million this year and has a $20 million team option for the 2027 season with a $2 million buyout.

If the Mets aren’t able to trade him, though, it would behoove them to keep playing Ewing and Benge alongside Juan Soto in the outfield. And presumably they’d relegate Robert to a semi-regular role, either giving Soto some starts at DH or just having Robert serve as a DH himself.

As for Wagaman, he’s made 42 plate appearances for the Mets, and he’s hit just .162/.262/.324 with a 68 wRC+. Once Mark Vientos hit the injured list, Wagaman started getting regular starts as Jared Young’s platoon partner at first base. The Mets haven’t started anyone other than those three players at first base since early May. Maybe they’ll just let Young face lefties for the time being.

And last but not least, Short has hit just .140/.262/.180 in 62 major league plate appearances this year, the vast majority of which came with the Tigers.

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Pat Riley reveals status of LeBron James’ relationship after rocky Heat split — as free agency rumors swirl

Could Pat Riley welcome back LeBron James with open arms if he decided to sign with the Miami Heat during NBA free agency?

Riley appeared as a guest on “The Dan LeBatard Show” on Monday morning and talked about how he’s let go of the past and the current state of his relationship with James.

“I’ve seen him around, run into him at All-Star games, we had a great embrace when they honored me with a statue out there,” Riley said. “Seeing he and Savannah in the stands at certain things, she’s always been a really gracious, wonderful person.”

Between 2010-2014, James was playing under Riley, who still serves as the Miami Heat’s team president.

During this four-year span, he was playing alongside Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh, where James was a two-time NBA champion (2012 & 2013) and was crowned the NBA Finals MVP and league MVP (2012 & 2013.)

Pat Riley reveals he still enjoys seeing LeBron James and his family around, despite his departure from the Heat in 2014. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

In 2014, the Heat were back in the NBA Finals looking for a three-peat but would end up being stunned as the San Antonio Spurs eliminated them 4-1.

James would become a free agent that year and ended up reuniting with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Riley admitted that he was disappointed with James’ decision to go back to Cleveland, as they believed the Heat were on the verge of becoming a dynasty.

“LeBron and I, we haven’t talked much, but you let go of that stuff,” Riley said. “I was very disappointed because I thought we were looking at a dynasty, or something dynastic, and we now had a chance to add other players to it in 14.”

Pat Riley revealed he still enjoys seeing LeBron James and his family around, despite his departure from the Heat in 2014. Getty Images

Riley went on to say he didn’t want to hang on to that and would like to see him at the golf course someday, despite not being a golfer.

On Saturday, Kalshi betting odds had the Heat as the new favorites to land the future Hall of Famer.

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Tigers vs Cubs Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight's MLB Game

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The Detroit Tigers and Chicago Cubs meet tonight, with the in-form Jack Flaherty taking the hill for the visitors. 

Behind his recent success, my Tigers vs. Cubs predictions have Detroit winning the series opener as a +101 underdog.

Read more in my MLB picks for Monday, July 20. 

Who will win Tigers vs Cubs today: Tigers (+101)

Jack Flaherty has been lights out for the Detroit Tigers lately. Over his last three outings, the right-hander owns a 2.92 FIP while allowing just 0.54 HR/9, and he has surrendered only two earned runs during that span.

Flaherty’s primary offering is the four-seamer at 49%, and over half of this Chicago Cubs lineup has a Run Value of one or lower against the fastball.

Jameson Taillon counters in his first outing since early June. He owns a 6.31 FIP in 2026 and will likely be on a short leash, exposing a Cubs bullpen with a 5.20 xERA over the last two weeks.

Flaherty keeps Chicago at bay, and Detroit does damage.

I'll play this pick down to -120. 

Covers COVERS INTEL: Taillon is allowing 2.10 HR/9 at Wrigley Field this season, and he's been extremely prone to the long ball overall. 

Tigers vs Cubs Over/Under pick: Under 11.5 runs (-103)

With a total this high, there’s still value in the Under. Even though Chicago's relievers aren't dominating right now, they face a Tigers offense with a 95 wRC+ and .185 ISO over the last two weeks. Extra-base hits drive runs, and Detroit isn't showcasing a ton of power.

The Cubs offense owns a 112 wRC+ across its last nine contests, but the .180 ISO is more manageable. Detroit’s bullpen also gives this Under a strong late-game path, posting a 2.43 FIP over its last 30 innings without allowing a single home run.

I'll confidently play this pick up to -130.

Quinn Allen's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 34-37, -7.21 units
  • Over/Under bets: 40-29, +5.15 units

Tigers vs Cubs weather

Conditions will be warm at Wrigley Field tonight, with temperatures around 83 degrees early, then falling to near 81 later. Winds are noticeable at roughly 15 to 16 mph, while rain chances remain low to moderate at 16% to 24%. Weather could have some impact, mainly because of the wind.

Tigers vs Cubs odds

  • Moneyline: Detroit +104 | Chicago -108
  • Run line: Detroit -1.5 (+156) | Chicago +1.5 (-163)
  • Over/Under: Over 11.5 (-104) | Under 11.5 (-100)

Tigers vs Cubs trend

The Detroit Tigers have hit the game total Under in 21 of their last 30 games (+11.10 Units / 34% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Tigers vs. Cubs.

How to watch Tigers vs Cubs and game info

LocationWrigley Field, Chicago, IL
DateMonday, July 20, 2026
First pitch8:05 p.m. ET
TVDSN, MARQ
Tigers starting pitcherJack Flaherty
(3-8, 4.48 ERA)
Cubs starting pitcherJameson Taillon
(2-5, 5.19 ERA)

Tigers vs Cubs 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.

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Texas Rangers lineup for July 20, 2026

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 19: Brandon Nimmo #24 of the Texas Rangers bats during the fifth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on July 19, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Colin Hubbard/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Texas Rangers lineup for July 20, 2026 against the Chicago White Sox: starting pitchers are Jacob deGrom for the Rangers and Erick Fedde for the ChiSox.

Texas begins a seven day homestand today that’s a pretty big deal, facing the first place Chicago White Sox for three games and then the currently second place by a half game, could be first place by the time they arrive to town on Thursday Seattle Mariners for four games. Texas has been underwhelming so far this year, at 24-22, and need to take advantage of the home field and have a strong week if they want to be contenders.

The lineup:

Pederson — DH

Langford — LF

Jung — 3B

Nimmo — RF

Burger — 1B

Duran — SS

Carter — CF

Diaz — C

Lopez — 2B

7:05 p.m. Central start time. Rangers are -168 favorites.

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Dodgers vs Phillies Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game

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The Philadelphia Phillies are -135 favorites against the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers this evening at Citizens Bank Park.

Cy Young candidate Cristopher Sanchez has been untouchable at home this season, and my Dodgers vs. Phillies predictions and MLB picks expect that to remain the case on July 20.

Who will win Dodgers vs Phillies today: Phillies (-135)

Emmet Sheehan struggled over the last month. His soft contact rate sat at 12% while he induced grounders at a 24.5% clip, lowest among all of today’s projected starters.

That’s not what you want against the Philadelphia Phillies. They rank 10th in wOBA, seventh in hard-hit rate, and tied for third in OPS against righties at home. They should give Sheehan real problems.

Cristopher Sanchez owns a 0.86 ERA and 61.9 GB% at home this season. He’s one of the few who can truly limit the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Back Philadelphia to -145.

Covers COVERS INTEL:Sanchez ranks in the 93rd percentile in Pitcher Run Value, a far cry from Sheehan's 29th percentile grade.

Dodgers vs Phillies Over/Under pick: Under 8.5 (-115)

The Phillies have a solid matchup against Sheehan, but they own a highly underwhelming .212 average against righties in July and slot 25th in wOBA. I don’t think we see a ceiling game offensively.

Meanwhile, the Dodgers are laboring as a whole offensively. They’re hitting just .223 and sit 26th in wOBA this month.

It’ll be difficult to score more than a run or two on Sanchez, and LA has to contend with a bullpen that owns a 3.09 xFIP over the past 60 days when he exits.

Bet to -130.

Todd Cordell's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 60-48, +1.60 units
  • Over/Under bets: 59-44-5, +7.49 units

Dodgers vs Phillies weather

Temperatures in the low 80s are expected, with winds blowing from the northwest. Boost to bats.

Dodgers vs Phillies odds

  • Moneyline: Los Angeles +115 | Philadelphia -135
  • Run line: Los Angeles +1.5 (-170) | Philadelphia -1.5 (+145)
  • Over/Under: Over 8.5 (-105) | Under 8.5 (-115)

Dodgers vs Phillies trend

Philadelphia has hit the game total Under in 31 of the last 50 games (+12.45 units, 23% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Dodgers vs. Phillies.

How to watch Dodgers vs Phillies and game info

LocationCitizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA
DateMonday, July 20, 2026
First pitch7 p.m. ET
TVESPN
Dodgers starting pitcherEmmet Sheehan
(4-6, 4.81 ERA)
Phillies starting pitcherCristopher Sanchez
(11-4, 2.62 ERA)

Dodgers vs Phillies 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.