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Flyers pick up second straight road win, improve to 7-3-0 in last 10 games

Flyers pick up second straight road win, improve to 7-3-0 in last 10 games originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

Dan Vladar and the Flyers delivered a 3-1 win Thursday night over the Predators at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.

The 28-year-old goaltender surrendered two or fewer goals for the seventh time in nine starts.

Matvei Michkov, Noah Cates and Travis Konecny provided the goals for the Flyers (8-5-1), who have gone 7-3-0 in their last 10 games.

Konecny (one goal, one assist) and Cam York (two assists) had multi-point performances.

Rick Tocchet’s club won consecutive road games this week to remove some of the bad taste from an ugly back-to-back set at home last weekend.

The Flyers swept the two-game regular-season series from the Predators (5-7-4). They beat Nashville a week ago, 4-1, at Xfinity Mobile Arena.

• Vladar really battled to help the Flyers survive a few hectic moments.

The free-agent addition converted 23 saves on 24 shots.

The Predators struck just 1:44 minutes into the action when a shot went off two bodies in front and past Vladar. The puck first hit Jamie Drysdale up high and then barely clipped Ryan O’Reilly, who was credited with the goal.

Vladar was very good the rest of the way, converting 19 of his saves over the first two periods and giving the Flyers a chance to take a 2-1 lead into the final frame.

Samuel Ersson returned from his lower-body injury to back up Vladar. Jacob Gaucher was sent back to AHL affiliate Lehigh Valley to make room for Ersson.

One would think Aleksei Kolosov will eventually join Gaucher after the Flyers travel home. Considering that Ersson battled lower-body issues last season, the Flyers could keep Kolosov in the picture a little longer for precautionary reasons.

Nashville netminder Juuse Saros stopped 23 of the Flyers’ 25 shots. Konecny’s marker was an empty-netter.

• Michkov’s goal was a big one for the Flyers and they hope it’s a big one for him, too.

The 20-year-old winger had gone nine straight games without a goal. This was his second of the season and it tied the game at 1-1 early in the second period. York found him and now has eight assists in 11 games.

Then, late in the middle stanza, the Flyers grabbed the lead thanks to an excellent forecheck. Cates finished the sequence with his fourth goal and 10th point of the season. Konecny extended his point streak to six games with a secondary assist.

• The Flyers’ penalty kill went 3 for 3 and is now operating at 87.8 percent. It turned away two Predators power plays in the third period to nail down the win.

The Flyers’ power play, which had produced six goals over the previous six games, went 0 for 1.

• The Flyers come home for a matchup Saturday against the Senators (1 p.m. ET/NBCSP).

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Mac McClung out, Monte Morris in for shorthanded Indiana Pacers

How hard have injuries hit the Pacers this season? We're not even 10 games into the season, and today Indiana made its fourth roster move to try to plug the holes left by all the players out with injuries.

The latest move is to waive recently signed guard Mac McClung and replace him on the roster with veteran Monte Morris, a story broken by Shams Charania of ESPN and confirmed by other reports.

Indiana had considered bringing in Morris to training camp, but he was dealing with a calf strain that was likely to keep him out most or all of camp, so the Pacers pivoted. Now, Morris is healthy, Indiana is even more desperate for help at the point, and the two are finally getting together. Morris, 30, is an eight-year NBA veteran who spent last season in Phoenix, averaging 5.2 points a night across 45 games (and less than 13 minutes per game).

This is unfortunate for McClung, the three-time Dunk Contest champion and former G-League MVP, who had signed a multi-year but non-guaranteed contract with the Pacers. He is now a free agent.

Indiana's guard depth has been decimated by injuries this season: Tyrese Haliburton (out for season, torn Achilles), Bennedict Mathurin (foot), Andrew Nembhard (shoulder), and T.J.McConnell (hamstring) are all out right now. (That's not to mention frontcourt players Obi Toppin, Johnny Furphy and Kam Jones.)

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Luis Suárez is Suspended for Game 3! Are Inter Miami better or worse without him?

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to Luis Suárez’s suspension for Game 3 of the MLS Playoffs against Nashville SC. Are Inter Miami better or worse off without him? Next, they welcome Chicano singer-songwriter Cuco to chat about his roots, music, and passion for soccer. Cuco shares how he became a die-hard LA Galaxy fan and explains why he supports both Club América and Chivas. Later, the hosts react to the latest USMNT roster announcement for November and the surprise call-up of Gio Reyna

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Blues Making Shocking Scratch For Sabres Matchup

Jordan Kyrou (© Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images)

The Buffalo Sabres are set to face off against the St. Louis Blues on Nov. 6. The Sabres' goal will be to bounce back and pick up a victory after losing their most recent contest against the Utah Mammoth by a 2-1 final score on Nov. 4. 

The Sabres will also not need to worry about one of the Blues' top players in this matchup. This is because star forward Jordan Kyrou is expected to be a healthy scratch for the contest.

Kyrou being scratched is undoubtedly significant news, as he is one of the Blues' best players. However, at the same time, he has struggled lately. 

Kyrou has been held off the scoresheet in each of his last four games for the Blues. He also had a minus-2 rating in the Blues' most recent game against the Washington Capitals, where St. Louis lost by a 6-1 final score. 

Now, with Kyrou set to sit for the Blues, the Sabres will be looking to take advantage. Time will tell if Buffalo can do just that from here. 

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Red Wings Unveil Dynasty Era All-Team

As part of their historic centennial celebration, the Detroit Red Wings have announced “The Dynasty Era All-Team,” honoring the legends who defined the franchise’s golden years and helped establish Hockeytown’s enduring legacy.

The lineup, representing the powerhouse teams of the late 1940s through the 1960s, pays tribute to the core players who brought multiple Stanley Cups to Detroit and cemented the club’s dominance in the Original Six era. As the Red Wings commemorate 100 years of hockey in Detroit, “The Dynasty Era All-Team” stands as a fitting tribute to the players who built the foundation of Hockeytown and whose legacy continues to inspire generations of fans. 

First Line: Ted Lindsay – Sid Abel – Gordie Howe

Known as “The Production Line,” this trio became one of the most iconic lines in NHL history. Gordie Howe, “Mr. Hockey,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, amassing 801 career goals and 1,850 points over 26 seasons. Sid Abel, the playmaking center, won the Hart Trophy as league MVP in 1949. Ted Lindsay, a fierce competitor and innovator, led the league in scoring in 1950 and was instrumental in forming the NHL Players’ Association. Together, the trio revolutionized offensive hockey with their blend of toughness, teamwork, and skill.

Second Line: Johnny Wilson – Alex Delvecchio – Tony Leswick

Johnny Wilson’s consistency and leadership were vital to Detroit’s success in the 1950s. Alex Delvecchio, one of the longest-tenured Red Wings, played 1,549 games and served as captain for 12 seasons, ranking among the top scorers in franchise history. Tony Leswick brought grit and timely scoring, helping Detroit secure three Stanley Cups during his tenure.

Third Line: Marty Pavelich – Norm Ullman – Floyd Smith

Pavelich, known for his defensive reliability, was a coach’s dream and a key component of Detroit’s penalty kill. Norm Ullman was a prolific two-way center, recording 490 career goals and earning 11 All-Star appearances. Floyd Smith added depth and versatility to the Red Wings lineup with strong two-way play.

Fourth Line: Vic Stasiuk – Dutch Reibel – Bruce MacGregor

Dutch Reibel won the Lady Byng Trophy in 1956 and centered productive lines during Detroit’s post-war dominance. Vic Stasiuk brought physicality and scoring touch, while Bruce MacGregor’s speed and effort made him a fan favorite through the 1960s.

First Pairing: Red Kelly – Marcel Pronovost

Red Kelly was one of the finest defensemen of his generation, winning four Stanley Cups with Detroit before later transitioning to center. He won the inaugural Norris Trophy in 1954 and was an eight-time All-Star. Marcel Pronovost provided elite defensive play and offensive contribution from the blue line, earning five All-Star selections.

Bookmark The Hockey News Detroit Red Wings team site to stay connected to the latest news, game-day coverage, and player features. 

Second Pairing: Bill Gadsby – Bob Goldham

Gadsby, a Hall of Famer, was renowned for his rugged defensive play and leadership. Bob Goldham, nicknamed “The Second Goalie” for his shot-blocking ability, was one of the earliest masters of defensive positioning.

Third Pairing: Doug Barkley – Bill Quackenbush

Quackenbush, known for his gentlemanly style, won the Lady Byng Trophy in 1949 as a defenseman who never took a penalty that season. Doug Barkley brought physical presence and reliability during the later years of the dynasty era.

Goaltenders: Terry Sawchuk – Harry Lumley

Terry Sawchuk is considered one of the greatest goaltenders in hockey history, posting 103 shutouts and four Vezina Trophies during his Hall of Fame career. Harry Lumley, another standout netminder, won the Vezina in 1954 and was instrumental in Detroit’s early Stanley Cup success.

This group collectively contributed to seven Stanley Cup championships during Detroit’s “Dynasty Era” (1947–1955), when the Red Wings were the dominant force in the league.

The announcement could be in some way a part of Hockeytown Centennial FanFest, a four-day celebration hosted at MotorCity Casino Hotel from November 6–9. Fans can explore “100 Years of Hockeytown,” a pop-up museum featuring rare artifacts, archival materials, and interactive displays chronicling the team’s evolution from the Detroit Cougars to today’s Red Wings.

Highlights of the FanFest include a Stanley Cup replica display, an immersive projection experience showcasing legendary moments, and autograph sessions featuring over 50 Red Wings alumni like Sergei Fedorov, Nicklas Lidström, Henrik Zetterberg, Chris Chelios, Vladimir Konstantinov, and Chris Osgood. Family-friendly events such as the Kids Zone, Hockey Skills Challenge and many more interactive games that will engage fans of all ages. Exclusive centennial-themed merchandise and collectibles will be available throughout the celebration. 

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Mets claim INF/OF Ji Hwan Bae, LHP Jose Castillo off waivers

The Mets added to their roster on Thursday, claiming INF/OF Ji Hwan Bae off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates and LHP Jose Castillo off waivers from the Baltimore Orioles.

Bae, 26, originally signed with the Pirates as an international free agent infielder in March 2018. 

Once considered a Top-15 prospect for Pittsburgh, Bae never really capitalized on his chances in the majors during his time with the Pirates.

After debuting and playing a handful of games in 2022, Bae played 11 games in 2023, posting a .608 OPS with two home runs, 17 doubles, 32 RBI, and 24 stolen bases. He then played just 20 games in 2024 and 13 games at the major league level in 2025, appearing solely as an outfielder when taking the field. 

Bae, whose sprint speed ranks in the 82nd percentile, according to Baseball Savant, has put up good numbers in the minors, though. In 2024, Bae had a .945 OPS with 86 hits in 67 games, and he posted an .800 OPS with 82 hits in 73 games this past season. 

Castillo returns to the Mets after appearing in 16 games with the club in 2025. Castillo pitched well during his time in Queens, posting a 2.35 ERA, but he was eventually placed on waivers and claimed by the Seattle Mariners before making his way to the Orioles. 

Additionally, infielder Nick Madrigal has elected free agency. 

The veteran infielder was fighting for a spot on the Mets' Opening Day roster last spring before suffering a fractured left shoulder.

 

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Matías Soulé and Lorenzo Pellegrini on target as Roma outclass Rangers

There was admirable efficiency about the way Roma dealt with this trip to Glasgow. Minimum of fuss. The team from Italy’s capital did, nonetheless, meet favourable opposition when placing their Europa League bid back on track. There was a glaring gulf in quality between Roma and a Rangers side which has now lost a club record seven European games in a row.

To their credit, Rangers at least huffed and puffed during a second half when capitulation felt the more likely option. However, the game was settled as a contest by then. Rangers remain rooted to the bottom of the Europa League, which should constitute an embarrassment to a club of this standing. Roma have eyes once more on making proper impact. Their only regret here was in not delivering a scoreline appropriately depicting men against boys.

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Yankees extend qualifying offer to OF Trent Grisham

In a semi-surprising move, the Yankees have extended the qualifying offer to outfielderTrent Grishamon Thursday, according to multiple reports.

This year’s qualifying offer is set at $22.025 million, and Grisham can accept the terms and return on a one-year contract. However, if Grisham rejects the qualifying offer and signs with a new team, the Yankees receive draft compensation. 

Of course, this could be a double-edged sword for the Yankees. With Cody Bellinger opting out and testing free agency, two of their three starting outfielders from this past season are now free agents. The qualifying offer allows the Yankees to recoup draft capital if Grisham signs with another team. However, the qualifying offer could hamper Grisham's prospects for a deal, as new teams may not want to give up a draft pick to sign him.

Grisham could also accept the one-year deal and the Yankees will be paying a hefty price for the 28-year-old. But, perhaps, that's not the worst-case scenario as Grisham had a career season with the Yankees in 2025. His 34 homers are twice as many as his previous career high (2022 with the Padres) and his 74 RBI are 12 more than his previous high in 2021. It wasn't just his homers and RBI. Grisham set career marks in slugging (.464), hits (116), walks (82) and OPS (.811).

Not bad for what many considered a throw-in when the Yankees acquired Juan Soto in a trade with the San Diego Padres before the 2024 season.

All players who receive the qualifying offer this offseason have until Nov. 18 to decide whether or not to accept it.

In addition, the Yankees added RHP Kervin Castro to the 40-man roster. The right-hander last pitched in the majors back in 2022 with the Giants and Cubs. In his career, he's pitched to a 4.91 ERA but is still just 26 years old.
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San Diego Padres hire former reliever Craig Stammen as manager

Craig Stammen

Oct 5, 2022; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher Craig Stammen (34) throws a pitch against the San Francisco Giants during the first inning at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Orlando Ramirez-Imagn Images

The San Diego Padres have hired former reliever Craig Stammen to be their manager. Stammen got a three-year contract to begin his first managerial job at any level of the sport.

The longtime right-handed reliever retired from his playing career with the Padres in August 2023, and he spent the past two seasons as an assistant to the major league coaching staff and the baseball operations department headed by general manager A.J. Preller.

The 41-year-old Stammen replaces Mike Shildt, who retired Oct. 13 after just two seasons in charge following the Padres’ painful playoff elimination in a tight three-game Wild Card Series against the Chicago Cubs. The Padres won at least 90 games and made the playoffs in both seasons under Shildt, who cited burnout and exhaustion in announcing his departure.

The Padres conducted a deliberate search for Shildt’s replacement, interviewing the likes of Albert Pujols, former Padres catcher Nick Hundley and longtime San Diego pitching coach Ruben Niebla. Stammen, who had not been publicly mentioned as a candidate for the job, is the Padres’ fifth full-time manager since the start of the 2016 season.

“Craig has been a strong presence in our organization for nearly a decade,” Preller said in a statement. “He possesses deep organizational knowledge and brings natural leadership qualities to the manager’s chair. As both a player and in his post-playing career, Craig has displayed an ability to elevate those around him. His strength of character, competitive nature and talent for bringing people together make him the ideal choice to lead the Padres.”

Stammen becomes the majors’ only manager who is a former pitcher.

He pitched seven seasons for the Washington Nationals and six more for the Padres during his playing career, serving as a reliever for all but his first two big league seasons. An Ohio native known for his effective sinker, Stammen is fifth in Padres history with 333 appearances for the club.

The Padres are enjoying their longest stretch of success in franchise history, making four playoff appearances and posting five winning records in the past six years behind stars Fernando Tatís Jr. and Manny Machado. They got as far as the NL Championship Series in 2022, losing to Philadelphia in five games after knocking off the Dodgers in the NL Division Series.

Stammen takes over the Padres’ dugout just under two years after the death in November 2023 of beloved Padres owner Peter Seidler, whose aggressive spending and hunger to win galvanized the team’s fan base. Seidler’s brother, John, is now the Padres’ chairman.

Preller, who is headed into the final year of his own contract, must make several major roster decisions in the upcoming weeks with key players due to hit free agency and the likely loss of significant pitching talent from last season’s 90-win club. Starters Dylan Cease and Michael King are free agents, while Yu Darvish will miss the 2026 season after undergoing elbow surgery.

Stammen is the latest surprising managerial hire in an already-eventful MLB offseason.

The nearby Los Angeles Angels gave only a one-year contract to Kurt Suzuki, another managerial neophyte, while the San Francisco Giants unconventionally hired longtime college coach Tony Vitello. The Nationals chose 33-year-old Blake Butera, the youngest manager in the majors since 1972.

The Colorado Rockies are the only remaining team without a permanent manager. Warren Schaeffer finished their 119-loss season as the interim manager, and the team parted ways with general manager Bill Schmidt on Oct. 1.

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Mets extend $22.025 million qualifying offer to free agent closer Edwin Diaz

In an expected move, the Mets have extended a qualifying offer to free agent closer Edwin Diaz. 

This year’s qualifying offer is set at $22.025 million, and any player who accepts the offer would return to their 2025 team on a one-year deal worth that much. If a player rejects the qualifying offer and signs with a new team, his original team would receive draft compensation. 

Also of note, players can only receive a qualifying offer once, meaning Pete Alonso (who was extended the QO last offseason) is not eligible for one this time around. 

Diaz, who opted out of his contract earlier this offseason, will surely decline the QO, as he’s likely to land a lucrative multi-year deal, either with the Mets or elsewhere. Diaz made $21.155 million last season, and he’ll be in for a decent raise on whatever his next contract turns out to be.

Originally acquired by the Mets in a trade with Seattle ahead of the 2019 season, Diaz’s Mets tenure got off to a rocky start, as he posted a 5.59 ERA in 2019, but he’s developed into one of the most dominating relievers in baseball ever since. 

An All-Star in 2022 and 2025, Diaz has a 2.93 overall ERA as a Met, and his 144 saves are the third most in team history. 

Coming off another strong season in which he pitched to a 1.63 ERA, Diaz said after the season finale that if he did indeed opt out of his contract, he’d love to stay with the Mets on a new deal.

"Yeah, of course,” Diaz responded when asked if he’d want to return to the Mets. "I love this organization. They treat me really, really good. My family, everything. If I decide to opt out, I would love to come back." 

All players who receive the qualifying offer this offseason have until Nov. 18 to decide whether or not to accept it.