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Can Jake LaRavia find consistency this season?

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - OCTOBER 29: Jake LaRavia #12 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts to his three-point basket against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the fourth quarter at Target Center on October 29, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Lakers defeated the Timberwolves 116-115. 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 David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Welcome to our Lakers Season Preview Series! For the next several weeks, we’ll be writing columns every weekday, breaking down the biggest questions we have about every player the Lakers added this offseason. Today, we take a look at Jake LaRavia.

When the viral moment last season where a Minnesota Timberwolves fan asked “Who is No. 12?” with Anthony Edwards hilariously responding, “That’s what I’m saying! I don’t know,” Jake LaRavia was catapulted into a bright purple and gold spotlight. Excitement filled the air as it seemed the Lakers had found a surprise gem as he torched the Timberwolves for 27 points while shooting 5-6 from behind the arc that night.

He followed that up with a few more impressive games before hitting a brutal slump that lasted through March. His minutes continued to dwindle into the postseason, where he averaged 15 minutes per game against the Rockets and played in just two of the four games against the Thunder.

Now, with the addition of quite a few new players including Sandro Mamukelashvili, Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams and Quentin Grimes, LaRavia might find himself being outshined by his teammates if he doesn’t tap into his “Who is No. 12?” identity again.

What is his best-case scenario?

The easiest answer is that he finds consistency. While the Lakers played their best basketball in March last season, LaRavia didn’t provide much offensive impact during that stretch. He went 6-25 from behind the arc for the month, only scored in double figures once, and only shot 43% from the field. He did have games, though, where his good effort, hustle and defense impacted the team.

If he could add an offensive bag to his hustle and effort, that would be his best-case scenario. He ended last season shooting 32% from behind the arc. LaRavia found himself open quite a bit, with attention often shifting to Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves and LeBron James, and he struggled to knock down those wide-open threes the team desperately needed.

LaRavia turning into a player who can impact the game on all cylinders adds an extra weapon to a new Lakers team that likely won’t struggle offensively but will need players to do a bit of everything.

What is his worst-case scenario?

Head coach JJ Redick went to LaRavia often last season, even in games he played badly, but that was mostly because the team wasn’t particularly deep. This upcoming season, with a team that has much more talent that can contribute in a multitude of ways, LaRavia’s minutes will likely start disappearing if he’s struggling.

Lakers fans may find themselves asking who number 12 is again, and this time it won’t be a fun viral moment. Was all that hype in the first half of last season just some random momentum he picked up? When his slump kept going and he showed no signs of improving, his worst-case scenario, you could say, started as soon as the lights shone too bright.

What is his most likely role on the team?

With Luka and Austin as the obvious two starters out of the five, LaRavia’s most likely role will be a battle with the newbies as well as Adou Thiero and rookie Cameron Carr, who shined in the Summer League. The best way he can earn minutes is by becoming a player who can contribute immediately when called upon, instead of someone who comes in, steals the ball a few times, but can’t consistently knock down triples. The Lakers likely have better versions of that type of player, particularly in Thybulle.

For many seasons, the Lakers have been in dire need of wing players. We saw LaRavia’s capabilities early on with a few stellar games and then a nice hustle performance here and there, so if he finds consistency, he’ll find the important minutes again.

You can follow Karin on Twitter at @KarinAbcarians.

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Seattle Kraken Lost A Veteran Presence They Won’t Easily Replace

Jaden Schwartz's time with the Seattle Kraken was rarely straightforward, but even through five seasons of injuries, the veteran forward managed to leave behind a productive chapter of the franchise's young history.

Schwartz played 301 games for Seattle, recording 79 goals and 89 assists for 168 points while becoming one of the more experienced players in the organization's locker room.

Now, he's taking that experience somewhere else.

Schwartz signed a three-year, $9.75 million contract with the Colorado Avalanche this offseason, returning to a place that has been part of his hockey story since he was a teenager and giving him another opportunity to chase a Stanley Cup.

The 34-year-old dealt with injuries in nearly every season with the Kraken, but he still found ways to produce. His 26 goals during the 2024-25 season nearly matched the career-high 28 he scored with the St. Louis Blues in 2014-15.

That production helped make Schwartz an important piece of Seattle's early years, even as injuries repeatedly interrupted his time on the ice.

Schwartz arrived in Seattle in 2021 as an unrestricted free agent after spending the first 10 seasons of his NHL career with St. Louis. He brought 2019 Stanley Cup experience with him and became one of the veteran voices on a team attempting to establish itself as a new NHL franchise.

He ultimately spent five seasons with the Kraken, including Seattle's run to the Western Conference semifinals in 2023.

Now, after leaving the organization, Schwartz has landed with an Avalanche team he believes is already close to another championship.

“Obviously, Colorado was very high on my list,” Schwartz said.

When the Avalanche reached out this offseason, the opportunity immediately caught his attention.

“There’s so many good players, good organization, like I said, very good guys,” Schwartz said. “When they reached out, obviously, I was pretty excited.”

Schwartz also had a firsthand look at Colorado while playing in Seattle, and despite watching the Avalanche's season end against Vegas in the Western Conference Final, he didn't see a team that needed major changes.

“I think the Avs are definitely in a win-now mode,” Schwartz said. “Which is awesome to be a part of.”

That belief was a major reason Colorado appealed to him.

Schwartz already knows what it takes to win a Stanley Cup, having played a key role in St. Louis' championship run in 2019. He also understands how little can separate teams once the playoffs begin.

When asked what Colorado was missing after its postseason exit, Schwartz didn't point to one specific area.

“I don't think they're lacking much,” he said. “The difference between winning and losing the playoffs is very, very tight, very narrow.”

Schwartz wasn't able to watch much of the Avalanche's series against Vegas because he was traveling, but he knew injuries had affected Colorado and understood how quickly circumstances can change a playoff series.

“So, a bounce here or there in whatever game, two or three, I think it probably could have been a different series,” Schwartz said.

Now, he'll have a chance to experience Colorado's pursuit of another championship from inside the locker room.

Exactly where Schwartz fits remains unclear as training camp approaches.

“We'll see,” Schwartz said. “I'm not sure. Different guys are going to slide and we'll just see how camp goes. Just excited to be a part of it.”

That excitement has already been evident.

Schwartz was among the first players to arrive for optional skates, using the extra time to settle into Colorado, look at houses and get to know his new organization and teammates.

Some of those teammates aren't strangers.

After years of playing against them, crossing paths internationally and getting to know some through mutual friends, Schwartz is now on the same side.

“A lot of guys that I've just played against for a long time,” Schwartz said. “Seems like an awesome group. Everyone kind of reached out, so I'm looking forward to getting started with that.”

There is also a personal connection to Colorado that predates his NHL career.

At around 15 years old, Schwartz and his family traveled to Colorado to watch his older brother, Rylan, play for Colorado College. The trip eventually helped lead Jaden to the Tigers, where he recorded 32 goals and 56 assists for 88 points in 60 games over two seasons.

The Blues selected him 14th overall in the 2010 NHL Draft, beginning a career that eventually brought him a Stanley Cup, five seasons in Seattle and now another opportunity in Colorado.

For the Kraken, Schwartz's departure closes the book on one of the more experienced players from the franchise's formative years.

For Schwartz, it's the beginning of another chapter — and another chance to chase a championship.

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Ten St. Louis Blues Players To Keep An Eye On As 2026-27 Training Camp Opens Thursday

MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo. -- On the eve of training camp for their 59th season in the NHL, the St. Louis Blues have a plethora of players that you will want to keep an eye on for one reason or another as camp progresses.

Let’s take a look at my top 10:

1. Mason McTavish – For obvious reasons, the Blues’ biggest acquisition this past off-season when they acquired the 23-year-old from the Anaheim Ducks on Day 1 of the 2026 NHL Draft for a pair of 2026 first-round picks, McTavish comes in with plenty to prove, plenty of motivation and a huge chip on his shoulder, like he disclosed here recently.

McTavish will come in and be given the keys as the No. 2 center behind Robert Thomas and will be a driving force whether the Blues will have the ability to put forth two strong top two lines on the ice behind Dylan Holloway-Robert Thomas-Jimmy Snuggerud top line.

McTavish said he’s worked on his power skating this past summer that should affect his defensive awareness on the ice. That will be something to look for from the get-go. I expect him to be highly motivated after being cast off the island in Orange County, Calif. Just one year after signing a six-year, $42 million ($7 million average annual value) contract.

2. Connor McMichael – Another top acquisition by the Blues this past summer, acquired from the Washington Capitals for a package that sent Jordan Kyrou to the nation’s capital.

It’s going to be human nature for Blues fans to look at the 25-year-old as the guy that needs to replace Kyrou’s production since he is the one that was traded for him, but what I will be looking for is if McMichael can fit onto that second line next to McTavish and bring with him similar numbers (57 points; 26 goals, 31 assists) that he put up two seasons ago.

McMichael has speed and plays with some sandpaper and grit and has a cutting edge to his game and the Blues are banking on him getting back to that after investing in him on July 16 with a six-year, $40.50 million ($6.75 million AAV) contract.

3. Pavel Buchnevich – Which Buchnevich will come out for the Blues this season, the one who first came to St. Louis five years ago and averaged over a point per game (76 points in 73 games) in 2021-22 or the one that struggled mightily at times last season but came on strong in the end to reach the 20-goal marker for the sixth straight season?

What I’m going to watch for is if Jim Montgomery puts Buchnevich on that second line with McMichael and McTavish, and if he does, it will be because the 31-year-old will have earned it.

McTavish and Jake Neighbours have a history together playing for Team Canada, so that’s a possibility but my sense is Buchnevich will get first dibs on that right wing in the hopes of jump-starting his offense early.

Buchnevich’s six-year, $48 million contract ($8 million AAV) kicks in this season, so there will be more pressure on him to perform to the standards the Blues paid him at, and if he can find that stout two-way play of his and play between the dots, success should follow him.

4. Robert Thomas – Now that Thomas has bought into new GM Alex Steen’s concept and vision for the Blues moving forward and was recently named the 25th captain in franchise history, this should be another player hungry and motivated.

Can Thomas anchor that top line that helped fuel a run that put up 92 points after the Winter Olympic break (Thomas had 31 points; 14 goals, 17 assists in 22 games)?

This is his team now, and Thomas needs to play like the No. 1 center that averaged 1.41 points per game down the stretch for the Blues to get out of the gates strong and have any chance of returning to the Stanley Cup playoffs.

5. Jimmy Snuggerud – Now that the Tuesday 11 p.m. (CT) deadline has passed and the new collective bargaining agreement has kicked in, the Blues no longer have the option of extending the 2022 first-round pick that had 21 goals and 51 points in 70 games, his first full season in the NHL, to a max eight-year contract. The highest they can go for Snuggerud, entering the final year of his entry-level deal, is seven, but that’s a topic of discussion for another day.

I want to see if Snuggerud can pick up – just like Thomas and Holloway – where he left off last season when what No. 1 line left a trail of fire to end the season following the Olympic break.

Somehow the 22-year-old doesn’t seem like the kind that would leave a potential contract extension weigh in on his play on the ice. He had 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists) in 25 games down the stretch and is capable of putting up similar numbers moving forward, but let’s see that hunger from the start; his shot and skating will be something to watch as camp unfolds. The potential of 30-plus goals or close to it is definitely in play.

6. Dylan Holloway – With a new five-year, $38.75 million ($7.75 million AAV) contract in the bag, no pressure on Holloway from me … other than I have him pegged to hit 30-35 goals this season.

No pressure at all ;)

But for a player that overcame a freak abductor injury late in the 2024-25 season and finally got his bearings underneath him, watch for a player to open camp coming out flying looking to make an impact as one of the young, rising players.

As part of that line with Thomas and Snuggerud, Holloway, tied with Macklin Celebrini with 34 points (14 goals, 20 assists) after the Olympic break in just 25 games, should have a channeled focus when camp opens on Thursday. He has a contract to live up to now, and I see no reason why he won’t have a focused, high-energy level right from the first whistle on Thursday.

7. Jordan Binnington – The 2019 Stanley Cup champion has clearly seen his partner not only catch him but all but pass him as camp opens, so how does the 33-year-old veteran in the final year of a six-year, $36 million contract handle the situation?

I still think this will be an open competition, and Jim Montgomery will play the guy that is the most consistent, but Joel Hofer, who was tied for the league lead in wins (12-2-2 with a 2.04 goals-against average) and third with a .933 save percentage after the Olympic break, will get the leash to open the season as the No. 1

This can be a solid tandem moving forward and a 45-39 start split isn’t out of the question, but it will be highly important for Binnington to have a sharp focus once camp opens; he did last year but the numbers didn’t translate. That’s going to have to change if he were to want to move on as a No. 1 elsewhere or continue to get a large number of reps here. The goaltending situation should be a fun storyline to watch.

8. Dalibor Dvorsky – Two questions I have when it comes to the 2023 first-round pick: can he find ways to take the next step and be more of an impact player (12 goals, nine assists in 71 games in his first full season last year) and will he be used more down the middle or as a wing on the third line?

We’ll see what Jim Montgomery has in store, but you could see a third line somehow in the form of a combination with Dvorsky, Jake Neighbours and/or Pavel Buchnevich, Pius Suter and Jonatan Berggren.

The third line makeup will be one of the more intriguing storylines as camp unfolds, and Dvorsky will need to come out of the gates showing that progressive steps will be necessary. The Blues aren’t souring on him by any stretch, but the competition for ice time is most definitely there and a sharp, focused Dvorsky will be imperative. Keep an eye on this one.

9. Adam Jiricek – Does the 2024 first-round pick have enough to knock the socks off the coaches and management to win a job on opening night? As former GM Doug Armstrong said, Jiricek will be given every opportunity to win a job but nothing’s guaranteed.

A couple of interesting observers noted to me that Jiricek’s play at the two-game prospect play against Chicago Blackhawks prospects on Monday and Tuesday produced mixed results but it’s not the tell-all the direction the Blues are looking as far as the blue liner is concerned.

Veteran Brandon Carlo was brought in via trade with the Toronto Maple Leafs for two third-round picks in 2026 for this very reason so Jiricek isn’t rushed to the NHL, but I’ll be watching him closely to see if he continues to make progress at this level.

10. Dillon Dube – The noise surrounding one of the five 2018 Canadian World Junior players accused of sexual assault before being acquitted in court has been loud and clear.

But the Blues brought the 28-year-old to St. Louis on a one-year, one-way, $850,000 contract for this season after a successful run with AHL’s Springfield last season.

Off the ice aside, I’ll be looking to see if Dube can steal one of the spots on the bottom six and really make this a quagmire of players management and the coaching staff will have to address if Dube is able to make this team. After all, this is a player that just as recent as 22-23 had the second of two 18-goal seasons who also put up 45 points then.

Imagine a player playing a third/fourth line role that can have that kind of offensive output? Can he get back to that kind of form or anything like it? It’s worth watching as camp progresses.

Brandon Carlo Welcomed, Needed A Trade; St. Louis Blues Came Calling For Someone With ExperienceBrandon Carlo Welcomed, Needed A Trade; St. Louis Blues Came Calling For Someone With ExperienceAfter what veteran described as not being his best with Maple Leafs, 29-year-old brought to St. Louis to complement a defensive unit with size, length, bring stabilityDillon Dube Understands Opinions Will Vary On His Reinstatement To NHL, Wants To Earn Another Chance To Prove His Worth As Person, Player On IceDillon Dube Understands Opinions Will Vary On His Reinstatement To NHL, Wants To Earn Another Chance To Prove His Worth As Person, Player On IceForward, among five 2018 Canada World Junior Players accused of sexual assault eight years ago before being acquitted, will get chance at return to NHL after signing one year contract with St. Louis Blues'Yeah, I Think I Have A Chip On My Shoulder, For Sure' -- New Blues Forward Mason McTavish Has Ample Reason For Motivation Entering 2026-27'Yeah, I Think I Have A Chip On My Shoulder, For Sure' -- New Blues Forward Mason McTavish Has Ample Reason For Motivation Entering 2026-27St. Louis acquired third overall pick in 2021 for pair of 2026 first-round picks after subpar season in Anaheim last yearSt. Louis Blues Prospect Adam Jecho To Enter Player Assistance ProgramSt. Louis Blues Prospect Adam Jecho To Enter Player Assistance Program2024 third-round pick will return to the club when cleared for on-ice competition by program administrators; fellow prospect Zach Dean was in assistance program a year agoRoss Johnston Midwestern-Type Upbringing Brought Him To St. Louis BluesRoss Johnston Midwestern-Type Upbringing Brought Him To St. Louis BluesNew Blues enforcer, who grew up on a family farm in Prince Edward Island, Canada, signed a three-year, $6 million contract that brings toughness, grit to a lineup that has been lacking it
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Pablo Torre takes aim at ESPN for Clippers, Steve Ballmer reporting

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Shams Charania, Image 2 shows Pablo S. Torre attends the 85th Annual Peabody Awards, Image 3 shows Ramona Shelburne attends The Annual espnW: Women + Sports Summit day 1 at The Lodge at Torrey Pines on October 18, 2021 in La Jolla, California

Pablo Torre is taking a victory lap for his reporting on the Clippers scandal.

The Pulitzer-winning journalist took aim at ESPN, the worldwide leader in sports, for the network’s false reporting that stated the NBA found no wrongdoing in the Clippers investigation.

Pablo S. Torre attends the 85th Annual Peabody Awards at the Beverly Wilshire. Variety via Getty Images

“All those people on that byline, I know them personally,” Torre said. “They had the ability to see so much that should have made them pause before publishing that. And I will say that they did not reach out to me for comment. I provided a comment afterwards in a discussion with them when the story came out. They did not include that comment.

“Generously, it is something that will haunt them because they did not intend for this. Less generously, it speaks to the question: How did you guys not smell this earlier when I have been doing this for a year? Why did you not trust the journalist, but instead trusted the source that leaked it to you?”

ESPN’s Don Van Natta Jr., Baxter Holmes and Ramona Shelburne incorrectly reported the league found no evidence owner Steve Ballmer funneled money to Kawhi Leonard via sponsors. Torre had been reporting the exact opposite on his podcast, Pablo Torre Finds Out.

A few weeks later, the NBA released its findings and penalties for the Clippers, which included stripping the team of five first-round picks and a $30 million fine.

ESPN also reported Leonard had no knowledge of the salary cap circumvention, which Torre quickly responded to with a document that the former Clippers star had signed with Aspiration.

There have been several doubters surrounding Torre’s reporting throughout the Clippers saga, but it appears the journalist has been one of few reliable sources regarding the LA organization.

He previously worked for the sports giant from 2012 to 2023, appearing regularly on programs like Around the Horn and Pardon the Interruption.

Ramona Shelburne was one of three ESPN journalists to report the NBA found no wrongdoing in the Clippers investigation. Getty Images
ESPN insider Shams Charania reported Kawhi Leonard had no knowledge of the Clippers’ salary cap circumvention. NBAE via Getty Images
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Dominick Barlow could do even more for Sixers in 2026-27

INGLEWOOD, CA - FEBRUARY 2: Dominick Barlow #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives to the basket during the game against the LA Clippers on February 2, 2026 at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Dominick Barlow went above and beyond what you’d ever expect for a player on a two-way contract last season. He started 59 games for the Sixers and averaged 23.8 minutes per game, as well as 10.8 minutes across nine games in the playoffs.

High motor, rebounding at both ends, sharp defense against guards and forwards, and some disruptive defensive playmaking — Barlow brought a lot to the table. Despite having little to offer on offense apart from play finishing, some improving driving against closeouts, and strong offensive rebounding (1.9 per game and an impressive 2.8 per 36 minutes), Barlow proved his value. He finished the season averaging 7.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.7 blocks per game.

The way Barlow plays within his role is key to his success. He has excellent agility and size with his 6-foot-9 frame, defensive versatility and playmaking potential as a defender and rebounder, so that’s what he focuses on. He doesn’t try to do too much, and he’s carved out a role as an impactful forward because of it. Combine that focus with his high motor and an IQ to generally be in the right spots at the right time (at both ends of the floor), and Barlow ticks a lot of boxes. There’s always a space for that on a team.

His career night against the Clippers in February with 26 points, two steals and 16 rebounds — including 10 (!!) offensive boards — was a perfect encapsulation of what his athleticism, knowhow and hustle can do.

Even with Barlow’s offensive weaknesses showing in the playoffs, he still had some high-energy plays in some key moments. Take Game 2 against the Knicks, where he chipped in with six points on 3-of-3 shooting, two rebounds, one steal, and two blocks in 15 minutes as he provided a boost and stepped up at center too.

Moving forward, the question for Barlow as 2026-27 approaches is what can we expect from him on these new-look Sixers?

We’ve seen some flashes of what Barlow’s been working on this summer. As you’d expect, his three-pointer is a focus, which he’s talked about with PhillyVoice’s Adam Aaronson. In his Rico Hines Runs with fellow young Sixers, Barlow has been showing off smoother form with his corner threes.

It has to be the priority for Barlow if he’s going to maximize his minutes on this newly stacked team. His lack of threat from distance (only shooting 25.6 percent from three for the year on 1.2 attempts per game) is also what held him back from being more useful in the playoffs. Pair this offseason work with Barlow being able to get over the elbow injury that bothered him earlier last season and messed with his shooting mechanics, there’s reason for the Sixers and their fans to be hopeful that he can improve as a shooter.

With the addition of Jaylen Brown on the wing and LeBron James, who’ll spend his time running point and shifting between positions (including the 4 and maybe the 5 in bursts), there’s potential for Barlow to not just keep hustling at the 4, but carve out a role as a smaller, switchy option at the 5 and form some dynamic frontcourts with LeBron.

Clearly the need for traditional centers behind Joel Embiid won’t go away. The Sixers will be at their best if they can get some reliable performance from Adem Bona and Ariel Hukporti, so they have more size and traditional rim protection when they need it off the bench. But depending on how Bona in particular performs, and when Embiid inevitably misses time, there will still be opportunity for Barlow to keep building on what he showed last season. That includes run at center.

Plus, what with the arrival of Dean Wade as a quality new option and super versatile defender as a backup 4, the potential for Barlow to offer more value as a smaller, switchier 5 increases again. How about a lineup like Tyrese Maxey, Brown, Wade, LeBron and Barlow for loads of offensive creation and switchability?

Of course, we can’t realistically expect a leap in jump shot variety from Barlow. However, him at least becoming a somewhat reliable corner threat would be huge to him being more useful when sharing the floor with Embiid, providing space when Maxey, VJ Edgecombe and now LeBron and Brown are attacking the paint as they will frequently, and being viable in the playoffs.

Without trying to make every conversation come back to the jumper, as it so often has with too many Sixers in the past, that’s the swing factor for Barlow now. We know he can do plenty of little things well.

Command some respect from defenders at the arc to keep the floor a little more spacious for LeBron and co., and there’s upside for Barlow to be an even more valuable role player when he’s on the floor. Even if those minutes decrease a little at times due to the sheer wealth of top-end talent and lineup versatility with these new Sixers.

And on his now standard contract with the team, for just $3.41 million in 2026-27, you can bet Barlow will remain one of the best value deals in the NBA.

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Red Sox Minor Lines: Tanner Houck looks ready, Allan Castro is clutch yet again

SARASOTA, FLORIDA - MARCH 20, 2026: Allan Castro #94 of the Boston Red Sox bats during the second inning of a Spring Breakout game against the Baltimore Orioles at Ed Smith Stadium on March 20, 2026 in Sarasota, Florida. (Photo by Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images

Worcester: W, 2-1 (BOX SCORE)

The WooSox roster has a bunch of guys who’ve made some plays for the Major League roster this season. But, as far as the Triple-A club is concerned, few guys (I know, I know, Franklin Arias might be one) have had as many big moments as Allan Castro. This wasn’t the 23-year-old’s strongest season from an OPS standpoint, but the big moments are getting notable. He just had a go-ahead home run the other day and he’s had multiple other walkoffs throughout the season. Yesterday, the WooSox again started a series on the winning side due to his bat, as he hit a 2-out single to score the Manfred runner. And, yes, in the process of all of this, Franklin Arias got himself a knock as did Romy Gonzalez. (Here’s that Castro hit.)

The game in general was a defensive battle. The Durham Bulls (Rays AAA) had the benefit of up-and-down starter Mason Englart dealing on Tuesday night as they couldn’t get on the board until Englart departed after seven. Luckily, Jedixson Paez was just as hot even without some of the strikeout numbers. His only run allowed was via a home run way back on the second at-bat of the game, and the 22-year-old righty recovered wonderfully from that, retiring fifteen consecutive Durham batters. From there, Tanner Houck came in and struck out the side in his rehab appearance, and it is starting to look likely that he sees some innings in a relief capacity as the Red Sox’s magic number dwindles. Osvaldo Berrios and Hobie Harris would then slam the door even in the face of a few more Bulls scoring opportunities; the WooSox had the only opportunity with runners in scoring position of the game. Enter extra innings, and enter Castro’s sealing single. Game over, 2-1.

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2026 Cubs Heroes and Goats: Matt Shaw is the Superhero vs. the Braves

The back and forth has happened so often that it’s not even really disconcerting anymore. This team can be so good. But it’s really fragile. It can evaporate in a hurry. Tuesday night’s game was one that against a lesser opponent probably would have been a win going away. The Cubs generated a ton of traffic early and did produce three runs, but they just couldn’t get over the hump. Martin Perez’s start reminded me of a Javier Assad start. There were runners all over the place and you kept feeling like the Cubs would eventually punch through and win an easy one.

Kevin Gausman was very good early and so everything just felt right in this one. In his sixth inning of work, Gausman was victimized by a two-run homer by Ronald Acuña Jr. He certainly wasn’t the first and won’t be the last to be on the wrong end of one of Acuña’s homers. He couldn’t get out of the sixth and then this is where the game got weird.

Before I continue on, a couple of disclaimers. I am a big Craig Counsell supporter. Secondly, even if I were a moderate (or less) supporter of Counsell, I’d still recognize that the Cubs bullpen (and often their pitching staff in general) has been so bad that there aren’t really any great options. So I get it, he’s trying to figure out a way to stack his Jenga blocks in such a way that they don’t immediately fall over. I can remember some recent National and Phillie seasons where they had combustible bullpens. I can remember the Cubs having some season with really unreliable closers. But I can’t remember the last time where the Cubs didn’t really have anyone dependable down there. Even in the lean years, there is usually a dependable arm or two down there.

So I get it. But he used Daniel Palencia to escape the sixth. That was obviously a key out with just a one run lead. Then he went to Jacob Webb. Webb allowed a second Braves two-run homer, to Ozzie Albies. He’s victimized a few people in his day too. Webb is such a cautionary tale for not getting too locked into a guy too quick. Webb had about as good a two-month stretch as any reliever you’ll see. But since he blew his first save, he’s been a dumpster fire. You don’t really learn about relievers until after they’ve had that first failure. Relief pitching is all about bouncing back from disappointment.

Then Craig Counsell went to Edward Cabrera. Cabrera was exactly what he’s been this year. Tantalizing at times. But just not able to finish the job. He ultimately allowed a two-run homer to Drake Baldwin. The Braves safely executed the clear strategy against the Cubs. Make their starter work. Keep the game close. Beat them late. To the Braves credit, they went to infield in very early in the game and indeed got a ground ball and threw out a runner trying to score.

All this game needed was either Marcell Ozuna or Freddie Freeman to show up and homer to really drive home echoes of four or five years ago. Those guys are long gone, but this felt like so many games against the Braves in recent years. Of course, it really felt like a 2026 Cub game too. The pitching staff just giving up too many homers.

Anyway, back to my original point. I would understand if you didn’t want Cabrera’s first relief appearance to be in a messy spot. And yet, they did eventually bring him in with two outs and a runner on second. So you had Cabrera in the chamber and you were ultimately willing to use him with traffic. So why wasn’t he the first one out of the pen in this one? Had the three relievers the Cubs did use done their job cleanly, Ryan Zeferjahn would likely have been on an island by himself to close this game, having thrown the day before. The other Ryan, Rolison also threw Monday and also threw Saturday. I don’t love the sequencing of the bullpen. Also, when they all allow two-run homers (Palencia did not), it doesn’t matter a ton.

Three Positives:

  • Matt Shaw was the clear offensive star in this one. He had two singles and drew a walk. He scored a run.
  • Kevin Gausman threw 5.2 innings and allowed only two runs, striking out six.
  • Michael Busch had a single and a walk and scored twice.

Game 152, September 15: Braves 6, Cubs 3 (84-68)

Reminder: Heroes and Goats are determined by WPA scores and are in no way subjective.

THREE HEROES:

  • Superhero: Matt Shaw (.136). 2-2, BB, R
  • Hero: Pedro Ramirez (.135). 1-4, RBI
  • Sidekick: Kevin Gausman (.110). 5.2 IP, 22 BF, 5 H, 0 BB, 2 R, 6 K

THREE GOATS:

  • Billy Goat: Jacob Webb (-.363). 0.2 IP, 5 BF, 2 H, BB, 2 R (L 6-5)
  • Goat: Pete Crow-Armstrong (-.140). 0-5
  • Kid: Nico Hoerner (-.124). 0-4

WPA Play of the Game: Ozzie Albies’ two-run homer with one out in the seventh gave the Braves a one-run lead. (.370)

Cubs Play of the Game: Pedro Ramirez batted with runners at first and second with no outs in the second, the game scoreless. He grounded to short and Mauricio Dubon fielded and tried to get the force at second but threw the ball away. A run scored and it put runners at the corners.

Cubs Player of the Game:

Game 151: Pete Crow-Armstrong 46-45 over David Peterson. One person voted for Carson Kelly and might have robbed us of a split. Probably just about as rare of an occurrence as a unanimous vote.

Rizzo Award Standings: (Top 5/Bottom 5)

The award is named for Anthony Rizzo, who finished first in this category three of the first four years it was in existence and four times overall. He also recorded the highest season total ever at +65.5. The point scale is three points for a Superhero down to negative three points for a Billy Goat.

  • Pete Crow-Armstrong +24.5
  • Alex Bregman +24
  • Carson Kelly +16.5
  • Ben Brown +13.5
  • Michael Conforto +13
  • Jameson Taillon -13
  • Seiya Suzuki -15
  • Nico Hoerner -16
  • Dansby Swanson -17
  • Caleb Thielbar -17.5

Scoreboard Watching: Hat tip to the Brewers winning their fourth straight NL Central title. That is one of the most well run organizations in baseball. The Phillies lost and remain half a game behind the Cubs (and would lose a tiebreaker). The Padres lost, snapping their long winning streak. They remain 1.5 games behind the Cubs. The Diamondbacks lost a t0ugh one in extra innings and are four games behind the Cubs.

Up Next: The third and final game of the series, winner takes the series. The Braves will at least split the season series with the Cubs, having won three of the first five. The Cubs have been very good against NL playoff hopefuls. Only the Brewers have won their season series with the Cubs. The Cardinals and Brewers are the only NL teams who came in with winning records against the Cubs. The Braves join that group. The Rockies, Giants and Nationals all split their series with the Cubs. There is some illustration of the up and down performance of the Cubs in these numbers. Doing well against all but one of the best teams but only breaking even against the worst teams.

Shōta Imanaga (10-10, 3.88) starts for the Cubs. He’s won back-to back starts, bouncing back after several rough ones. He lost to the Braves in May despite allowing two runs over seven innings of work. 23-year-old righty JR Ritchie (1-2, 4.50) has appeared in 14 games, making eight starts. He hasn’t pitched in the majors since August 2. He went four innings and allowed two runs in that one, a start. He’s fully stretched out, twice pitching six or more innings this month in the minors. On September 6, he struck out 15 in 6.2 innings. He only walked one. So he is dominating at Triple-A. At the major league level, he’s allowed 36 walks in 58 innings. He started against the Cubs in May. He allowed a run on two hits and three walks in 4.1 innings.

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Is it panic-time for the Phillies?

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 15: Cristopher Sánchez #61 of the Philadelphia Phillies pitches against the Washington Nationals during the first inning at Nationals Park on September 15, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It has the feeling of it all unraveling, doesn’t it?

First, it was the announcement by the Phillies on Tuesday afternoon that starting pitcher Jesus Luzardo, the very best pitcher in the sport for more than three months now, was being placed on the 15-day IL with shoulder inflammation that the team hoped would subside in time for him to make his next start.

While the team and Luzardo say they are confident he will be ready for the playoffs, it’s fair to be critical of that. It’s never good news when your best pitcher’s throwing shoulder is too sore to throw a baseball two weeks before the postseason.

The Phillies were 18-3 in his last 21 starts. Since May 14, Luzardo’s 1.93 ERA was second in the Majors, his 164 strikeouts ranked third, he was second in innings pitched (135), his .191 opponents’ batting average was fifth and his 0.98 WHIP was seventh-best.

It is a critical loss as the Phillies battle three other teams for one of the NL’s three wild card slots.

Then, the Phils followed that news by playing a dispiriting game against the last place Nationals in Washington. The bats were largely silent, Cristopher Sanchez had yet another lackluster start, and the bullpen gave up a big hit late in a 6-3 loss.

The Phillies are 4-8 in their last 12 games after a raucous August, further cementing the Jekyll and Hyde nature of this sometimes-great, sometimes-awful group of veterans.

They benefitted from outside help on Tuesday night, with the Cubs, Padres and Diamondbacks all also losing, but the whole thing feels exceedingly tenuous right now.

Is it time to panic?

Cristopher Sanchez, who earlier this year spun 50 2/3 scoreless innings, the third-longest mark in MLB history, has a 6.87 ERA over his last three starts and a 5.06 ERA in his last five. He has given up 8 or more hits in 4 of his last 6.

It’s a bad time for Sanchez to lose his way.

The lineup’s early-August dalliance with discipline has disappeared entirely, with a league-worst 6.4% walk rate in September, but this isn’t about one inopportune cold streak. The lineup has a season-long OPS+ of 90 that is the worst in baseball.

That’s right, according to that metric, there is no offense in baseball worse than the Phillies’. They have just three players with a slugging percentage over .400 (Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Brandon Marsh), and Marsh’s .412 is barely over that mark. He’s also been, statistically, the worst player in baseball since the All Star break. Only two players (Schwarber and Harper) have at least 20 home runs.

So if you’re expecting the Phillies to slug their way through October like they did in ‘22, think again.

And then there’s the bullpen. Their 4.33 ERA is 21st in baseball, and there is no one you feel good about coming out of the ‘pen with a late lead and the game on the line, outside of Jhoan Duran. He’s not infallible, nor should he be expected to be.

Tuesday night’s game against the Nationals was a prime example of what ails this team. This was a matchup the Phillies simply had to win.

They had Sanchez, one of the best pitchers in baseball over the last two years, facing a decent but no longer spectacular Nationals lineup. The Phils’ offense, meanwhile, went up against a 23-year-old left-handed rookie named Jackson Kent, who after five innings had given up just three runs. He has a 6.40 ERA.

The Nationals have the worst bullpen in baseball, setting the all-time blown saves record last week. They pitched four shutout innings against the Phillies’ lineup of free swinging stars.

Sanchez vs. a rookie with a 6.40 ERA and the Major’s worst collection of relievers. In a pennant race.

The Phils had to win that one.

It’s fair to remember things felt like they were falling apart in September of 2022, too. They went 11-14 in the season’s final month and 3-3 in early October ahead of the playoffs, ultimately sneaking in as the third wild card. After a brutal three-game sweep at the hands of the Cubs in Wrigley Field in late September, the Phillies had lost 10 of 13 and appeared on their way to blowing a chance to break an 11-year postseason drought that had become the longest in the National League.

But they righted the ship at the last moment and snuck into the tournament. Magic happened.

That team succeeded in October without the weight of expectations on them. This team, even if they enter as a road wild card team, will not have the grace of being an underdog. No matter how they get into the playoffs, the only thing that will make anyone happy is a World Series.

The trend lines aren’t good. A season-long underachieving offense, a starting rotation that might be falling apart, and a bullpen no one trusts does not establish a championship foundation.

It is all so tenuous, and nothing is guaranteed.

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Sabres Division And Conference Rivals Beat CBA Signing Deadline

The Buffalo Sabres were one of a number of clubs to get a player signed to a  long-term extension before the September 15th deadline, locking up forward Noah Ostlund to an eight-year, $52.8 million deal, but some of the Sabres competition in the Atlantic Division and the Eastern Conference also got their business done before 12 midnight Wednesday. 

The Montreal Canadiens, on the heels of adding veteran winger Chris Kreider on a one-year, bonus-laden deal locked up winger Zach Bolduc, center and playoff hero Alex Newhook, and defenseman Arber Xhekaj. Bolduc($4.2 million AAV) and Newhook($5.5 million AAV) were signed to four-year deals, while Xhekaj signed a one-year deal for $1.5 million.

The Washington Capitals, after signing forward Ryan Leonard to an eight-year, $84 million deal on Monday, consummated another max deal with forward Justin Sourdif. The 24-year-old was acquired from Florida in June 2025 for a pair of draft picks and scored 35 points (15 goals, 20 assists) as a rookie with the Capitals last season. The deal which begins in 2027-28 carries a $6.35 million AAV. 

The Ottawa Senators locked up veteran winger Drake Batherson on an eight-year, $86 million deal ($10.75 million AAV) and the New Jersey Devils late on Tuesday signed recently acquired forward Luke Evangelista to a five-year, $36.25 million deal ($7.25 million AAV).

 Other Sabres Stories

Mrtka Looking To Take The Next Step Towards The NHL 

Where will Connor Hellebuyck end up?

In the latest episode of “As Connor Hellebuyck Turns”, TSN’s Darren Dreger reported on Tuesday that the former Hart and Vezina Trophy winner will not report to training camp on Wednesday. The 33-year-old revealed publicly late last month through his agent that he had requested a trade after last season. The revelation put more pressure on GM Kevin Cheveldayoff to make a deal before the season. 

Dreger revealed earlier in the week that the offers that the Jets have received for Hellebuyck have been “terrible” and well below expectations, but with it publicly known that the gold medal winner does not want to play in Manitoba any longer, it is hard to imagine that the offers will get significantly better. The Sabres were reportedly the leading candidate to land Hellebuyck around the NHL Draft i June, but recent reports have connected him to Utah, Carolina, possibly New Jersey and San Jose. 

Follow Michael on X, Instagram @MikeInBuffalo

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Dallas Mavericks slip once again in ESPN’s Future Power Rankings

BROOKLYN, NY - FEBRUARY 24: Kyrie Irving #11 and Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks look on during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on February 24, 2026 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, 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 David L. Nemec/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

As much as NBA teams are trying to have success in any given season, the real tell of being a great organization is if they can set themselves up for sustained success over a longer period. The Dallas Mavericks looked as if they were set up for that success just two short years ago. After making the 2024 NBA Finals, the Mavs were fifth in ESPN’s Future Power Rankings, which ranks teams on a forward-facing three-year timeline.   

After falling to 16th overall in the rankings last offseason, Dallas slid once again in ESPN’s 2026 offseason edition of the ranking, slotting in at 17th in the NBA. Here is what the experts said on Dallas’ position.

Three-year outlook

The Mavericks rank near the middle of the pack in almost every subcategory, so they’re a proper fit for the middle of the pack. On the plus side is the presence of 19-year-old Cooper Flagg, the reigning Rookie of the Year and one of the NBA’s most promising prospects. On the negative side is uncertainty around Dallas’ competitive window, as it’s unclear when Flagg and friends will actually start pushing toward the playoffs. – Kram

It continues to baffle me that Dallas hasn’t been able to get draft capital for some of the veteran players who are on the roster. For a team who isn’t going to compete for anything real in the next few years, they have no reason to be in the bottom third of the league in draft assets. Really, it’s an indictment of the organization that the only category they rank in the upper half of the league in is the thing they can’t control: The city they operate out of. But again, imagine where this roster would be without Cooper Flagg.

Roster question looming

What happens with Kyrie Irving? The nine-time All-Star has not played an NBA game since tearing an ACL in March 2025 and has two years remaining on his contract. With a new front office in place, is Irving on the roster next summer or is he a trade candidate in February? Irving was on pace to average at least 20 points for a ninth straight season before the knee injury. – Marks

BOSTON, MA – MARCH 6: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Dallas Mavericks smiles before the game against the Boston Celtics on March 6, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Perhaps the biggest question that the Mavericks face this year is the question about Irving. By the time late October rolls around, it will have been 18-months since he last played NBA basketball. No longer a spring chicken, and not getting any younger, will Irving have the tolerance to stick around if this team isn’t a play-in contender?

Bold prediction for 2027-29

Flagg will be the first American-born MVP since Harden in 2018. Can the Mavericks forward reach the summit by 2030? That’s a tough ask given that Wembanyama, Jokic, Gilgeous-Alexander and Doncic will be drawing votes for years to come. But Flagg was incredibly productive as an 18-year-old rookie, and his two-way game should quickly transform Dallas into a winner. LeBron James captured his first MVP during his age-24 season; don’t be surprised if Flagg gets there at a younger age. – Golliver

Apr 29, 2026; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Maverick Cooper Flagg makes his way to post press conference gathering in his honor for being named the 2025-26 NBA Rookie of the Year at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

A Flagg MVP campaign would surely mean the Mavericks are good again, so we can only hope this comes to fruition!

What are your thoughts on the Mavericks’ ranking overall? Personally, I think it feels about right but admittedly, I’m a bit lower on their future than most.

Check out the full set of rankings from ESPN here.

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Brad Marchand To Miss Start Of Regular Season, Not Expected To Be Out Long

The Florida Panthers are going to be without one of their veteran stars at the start of the new season.

On Wednesday, the Panthers held their annual Media Day at the War Memorial Auditorium in Fort Lauderdale, which is connected to the team’s practice facility, the Baptist Health IcePlex.

The opening act was Florida General Manager Bill Zito, and one of the first things he was asked about was the health status of forward Brad Marchand.

Over the summer, Marchand revealed that he had a procedure done that he said would keep him off the ice at least in the short term.

While he’s been working on his recovery, there has not been an official timetable set for when he could be ready for game action.

Zito’s answer was a positive one.

“I anticipate Marchy back early in the season,” Zito said.

Marchand, 38, will be playing in his 18th NHL season and his second full year with the Panthers after being acquired at the 2025 Trade Deadline.

He racked up 27 goals and 54 points in 52 games last season before shutting things down due to injury.

“I would say that we’re going to be very conservative with bringing him back,” Zito said.

Outside of Marchand, the Panthers are expected to enter the season fully healthy. It’s a stark contrast from last season, when injuries decimated Florida’s hopes of defending their back-to-back championships.

Training camp officials begins Thursday morning.

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Photo caption: Feb 27, 2026; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Florida Panthers left wingBradMarchand(63) looks on against the Buffalo Sabres during the first period at Amerant Bank Arena. (Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)

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WTA Finals moving to an NBA arena next year as tennis tour seeks 'Super Bowl for women's sports'

U.S. Open

Tennis - U.S. Open - Flushing Meadows, New York, United States - September 9, 2026 Coco Gauff of the U.S. celebrates winning her quarter final match against Russia’s Mirra Andreeva IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Geoff Burke

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters

The WTA Finals, the elite season-ending event in women’s tennis, will be held in Charlotte, North Carolina, for the next three years in a move that organizers hope will create “the Super Bowl for women’s sports.”

The tournament will be played at the Spectrum Center, home of the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets, the WTA and the Charlotte Sports Foundation announced Wednesday.

The year’s top eight singles players and doubles teams qualify for the event, which is usually held in November.

“Our ambition is for the WTA Finals to be not only the premier championship in women’s tennis, but one of the defining global events in women sports,” WTA chair Valerie Camillo said. “We want to create the Super Bowl for women’s sports. And not just the competition, but an event that is the annual gathering for women’s tennis, women’s sports, and women’s sport business.

“Audiences are growing, investment is growing, female athletes are increasingly at the center of sports and culture around the world. And women’s tennis has helped lead and define that progress for more than 50 years. And we believe our biggest championship should reflect the scale of this moment,” Camillo added.

Camillo called it a “minimum three-year deal. She added, “We’ll see what goes on beyond that.”

Leaving Saudi Arabia

The announcement comes at a time of financial difficulty for the WTA after it announced in July that it was opting out of the final year of a three-year hosting arrangement with Saudi Arabia to move this year’s Finals to Indian Wells, California.

There were concerns about going back to Saudi Arabia due to military conflicts in the Middle East.

Camillo noted that “2026 is a year of transition for the WTA” and that “we are doing the normal belt tightening you would expect in any business while also absorbing the unexpected cost of relocating the WTA finals to Indian Wells.

“What’s most important to know is that we have a clear path to deliver consistent, sustainable financial performance in 2027 and beyond,” she added.

With Indian Wells now set to host only once, Charlotte will become the eighth different venue for the Finals since 2018.

The WTA did not announce any prize money figures for the upcoming tournaments, and could struggle to match the record-setting amounts that were on offer in Saudi Arabia.

Elena Rybakina collected $5.23 million for winning the 2025 WTA Finals in Riyadh after going 5-0 at the event. The WTA said that was the largest payout in the history of women’s sports. Aryna Sabalenka earned $2.7 million as runner-up.

Rybakina also beat Sabalenka in Saturday’s U.S. Open final and claimed the No. 1 ranking.

Coco Gauff won the 2024 finals in Riyadh.

Operating control

The partnership will extend beyond the Finals. The WTA will also relocate its global headquarters from St. Petersburg, Florida, to Charlotte, as part of the deal.

And there’s a plan to bring a WTA 500 tournament to Charlotte after 2029.

“The WTA has always owned the WTA finals, but now going forward, we’re going to operate it too,” Camillo said. “We’re taking control of the creation of the revenues and the controlling of the expenses and the delivery of the entire thing.

“And that allows us to control our own destiny,” Camillo added. “Whether it’s around what we’re doing with our media rights and our production, whether it’s related to the WTA finals, whether we’re approaching our calendar, we’re going to be making bold and aggressive moves for women’s tennis that shapes the future that we want rather than reacting.”

Camillo replaced retiring chair Steve Simon at the end of last year.

She previously oversaw business operations for the Philadelphia Flyers and Wells Fargo Center as the president and CEO of the sports and entertainment division of Comcast Spectacor, and has held senior roles with the Washington Nationals and the NBA.

Asked if there was a desire to eventually merge with the ATP Finals — the men’s season-ending event — Camillo said “there hasn’t been an in-depth conversation about merging” the two tournaments.

“I think that when we create our ambition, people are going to want to merge with us on this event and many more,” she added.

Condensed schedule to fit between NBA games

The move to the Hornets arena during the NBA season means that the Finals will be condensed from eight to five days.

That means the traditional schedule of two singles and two doubles matches per day could become four singles and four doubles matches per day.

“We are exploring a series of alternate formats,” Camillo said.

The Spectrum Center has already hosted high-profile tennis exhibition events in recent years.

“As an organization, our mission is quite simple,” Will Pitts, CEO of the Charlotte Sports Foundation, said of the Finals. “It’s drive economic impact and add to the quality of life through high-profile sporting events and unique partnerships. And this certainly does that.”

The move comes as Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper is investing an additional $500 million into ongoing stadium renovations with an eye toward potentially bringing the Super Bowl, NFL draft, 2031 Women’s World Cup and other major sporting events to Charlotte.

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In defense of the opener

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - AUGUST 29: Bryan Hudson #60 of the Chicago White Sox delivers a pitch against the Minnesota Twins in the ninth inning at Target Field on August 29, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The White Sox defeated the Twins 3-2.
The problem isn’t with openers; it’s choosing the best one, like Bryan Hudson — and letting him pitch deeper into the game. | (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)

Here’s a bold prediction: at some point in the next decade, we will have a pitcher who will break the record for most games started in a season. The record is currently 75, shared by Pud Galvin (1883) and Will White (1879.) Galvin threw 656 ⅓ innings, while White threw 680. The future record-holder will probably throw fewer than 150 innings.

They’ll be an opener.

Enough about the past and future, let’s instead focus on the recent past and the near future. White Sox manager Will Venable first deployed Grant Taylor as an opener this year on April 3. The White Sox won that game, to improve their early season record to 2-5. Venable had Taylor open again the next day – they won that game, too. Despite the early success, Venable’s tactics were met with skepticism by the fan base writ large. It was a mixture of “nerds are ruining the game” (balderdash) with a scoop of “anything the White Sox do is inherently a bad idea because it’s the White Sox doing it” (OK, understandable.)

The proof has since been found within the pudding. When the White Sox use any of their three best high-leverage arms to open a game, their record is 13-5. Openers work — when you have a good opener:

Chris Murphy is not on the level of Taylor, Hudson or Newcomb. So when he gave up back-to-back home runs in the first inning of Tuesday’s game to put the White Sox in a 3-0 hole, it’s totally reasonable to ask why he was opening. What isn’t in question is whether openers in general are a smart decision.

They are.

What’s the logic behind using openers in the first place? Like most ideas which lead to analytic nerds getting their heads dunked in toilets by the likes of Hawk Harrelson, there’s 100+ years of consistent data to back up the concept. Namely, starting pitchers see a precipitous drop in their effectiveness whenever they are facing a batting order for the third time. By using an opener, the opposing lineup’s best hitters do not get a third chance to see the bulk pitcher until late in the game, as opposed to the middle innings. And that’s if they get to see him a third time at all; when the strategy works as intended, the “starter” can tear their way through the middle innings and still hand over the ball to a late-inning, high-leverage arm.

This is where the anti-analytics people come out of their caves, wearing their leopard-fur loincloths and waving around crude hand tools in a blind fury, shouting, “Walter Johnson didn’t need an opener” like they’ve spotted an airplane flying over Pangaea. This is the only context where somebody can demand that Erick Fedde pitch as effectively as Johnson and receive widespread support. I’ll concede that Johnson did not use an opener during his career, and still did quite well for himself.

Let’s see how the OG Big Train did each time through the order:

Here’s the thing: A tired Johnson was still going to pitch better than any reliever. That’s why he has a career bWAR of 168.4. I am not saying that Johnson needed an opener. What I am saying is that any time a major league hitter gets a third chance to see the same pitcher in a game, they will always do better on average (I’m also saying that Johnson is better than Fedde, by the way). Openers aren’t a case of analytics running the game, but a case of adapting to facts that have been staring us in the face since the spitball.

If you want a more modern example, let’s look at Tristan Peters vs. Gavin Williams in the White Sox 7-3 victory over the Guardians on Monday.  His first at-bat was a one-pitch pop out on a high inside fastball. His second appearance was a five-pitch strikeout with two runners in scoring position, featuring two swings over the top of breaking balls that were closer to the dirt than they were to the strike zone.

Peters seemed overmatched. In the interest of that long-dead ideal known as “full transparency,” it was that at-bat which caused me to have a full-blown crash out on main:

The third at-bat, of course, was that 18-pitch epic that became the turning point of the entire game. Peters had now seen the fastball, curveball and sweeper. That experience allowed Peters to foul off those pitches with metronomic efficiency. By the way, it’s not like Williams ever gave in; I don’t think he missed his spot on any of his first 17 pitches. Peters simply wouldn’t be beaten. It was an at-bat you could only have in your third at-bat against the same pitcher.

Now, a modest proposal. The White Sox starting pitchers are gassed. It’s undeniable. That’s why Venable should use an opener for every game from now until the end of the season.

Yes. Every game.

I’ll go even further – most managers pull their opener after their first five or six hitters, reasoning that their “starter” can facing the bottom third of the order three times without significant risk. Last I checked, though, the bottom-three hitters in every major league lineup are still major league hitters. The White Sox also have a bullpen full of starting pitchers past (Newcomb, Hudson) and future (Taylor.) Let them face the entire lineup once through. Pass off the baton after a clean nine batters faced and let the bulk arm come in for the heavy work with a totally clean slate. If the club’s starters can only give you four innings, those innings should be four through seven, not one through four.

After all, No. 2 seeds only need to go 11-5 in October to win a World Series title.

Numbers don’t lie.  

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Sabres Announce Training Camp Roster

The Buffalo Sabres revealed their 2026-27 training camp roster on Tuesday, as 53 players will take part in on-ice workouts on Thursday. The group consisting of 31 forwards, 15 defensemen, and seven goaltenders will take part in practices in multiple groups, a Blue and Gold scrimmage at Key Bank Center on Saturday, September 19, and four preseason games against Pittsburgh (home and away), Columbus, and Detroit between September 21 and September 26.   

Sabres GM Jarmo Kekalainen and head coach Lindy Ruff will meet with the media on Wednesday. The club made a few additions to the camp roster on Tuesday, signing former NHLer Thomas Bordeleau and goalie Talyn Boyko to AHL deals. Bordeleau, 24, split time between the San Jose Sharks and their AHL affiliate after being selected in the second round of the 2020 NHL Draft. Last season, he split time between Utica and Springfield, posting 21 points (9 goals, 12 assists) in 60 games. 

Other Sabres Stories

Mrtka Looking To Take The Next Step Towards The NHL 

Boyko is a 2021 fourth rounder of the New York Rangers, who split time between AHL Hartford and KalPa in the Finnish SM-Liiga last season. The 23-year-old participated in last weekend’s Prospect Showcase, and was brought in for depth purposes, as Amerks goalie Topias Leinonen will be unavailable to start camp due an injury in off-season training.   

Where will Connor Hellebuyck end up?

Roster (courtesy of the Sabres website)

Forwards(31)

6 | Zach Benson, LW | 21 | 65 GP, 13 G, 30 A

77 | Thomas Bordeleau, C | 24 | 60 GP, 9 G, 12 A (AHL)

10 | Sam Carrick, C | 34 | 73 GP, 9 G, 7 A

59 | Matteo Costantini, C | 24 | 33 GP, 6 G, 3 A (AHL)

15 | Justin Danforth, RW | 33 | 4 GP, 0 G, 0 A

91 | Josh Doan, RW | 24 | 82 GP, 25 G, 27 A

45 | Riley Fiddler-Schultz, C | 24 | 62 GP, 21 G, 16 A (AHL)

54 | Zac Funk, RW | 23 | 23 GP, 9 G, 10 A (ECHL)

55 | Mason Geertsen, LW | 31 | 5 GP, 0 G, 0 A

94 | Konsta Helenius, C | 20 | 9 GP, 1 G, 3 A

48 | Tyson Kozak, C | 23 | 46 GP, 2 G, 4 A

19 | Peyton Krebs, C | 25 | 82 GP, 12 G, 27 A

20 | Jiri Kulich, C | 22 | 12 GP, 3 G, 2 A

52 | Trevor Kuntar, C | 25 | 70 GP, 21 G, 16 A (AHL)

29 | Beck Malenstyn, LW | 28 | 81 GP, 7 G, 7 A

27 | Aidan McDonough, LW | 26 | 65 GP, 23 G, 21 A (AHL)

71 | Ryan McLeod, C | 26 | 81 GP, 14 G, 40 A

49 | Carson Meyer, RW | 29 | 55 GP, 14 G, 17 A (AHL)

9 | Josh Norris, C | 27 | 44 GP, 13 G, 21 A

86 | Noah Ostlund, C | 60 GP, 11 G, 16 A

13 | Matthew Peca, C | 33 | 63 GP, 12 G, 35 A (AHL)

41 | Jason Polin, RW | 27 | 46 GP, 10 G, 11 A (AHL)

22 | Jack Quinn, RW | 24 | 82 GP, 20 G, 31 A

70 | Jake Richard, RW | 22 | 38 GP, 10 G, 17 A (NCAA)

81 | Redmond Savage, C | 23 | 29 GP, 3 G, 3 A (AHL)

43 | Conor Sheary, LW | 34 | 62 GP, 7 G, 11 A

67 | Graham Slaggert, C | 27 | 58 GP, 2 G, 5 A (AHL)

72 | Tage Thompson, C | 28 | 81 GP, 40 G, 41 A

28 | Liam Valente, RW | 23 | 39 GP, 20 G, 15 A (NCAA)

42 | Brendan Warren, LW | 29 | 63 GP, 5 G, 7 A (AHL)

17 | Jason Zucker, LW | 34 | 62 GP, 24 G, 21 A

Defensemen (15)

46 | Louis Crevier, RHD | 25 | 78 GP, 7 G, 18 A

26 | Rasmus Dahlin, LHD | 26 | 77 GP, 19 G, 55 A

44 | Dennis Gilbert, LHD | 29 | 8 GP, 0 G, 1 A

33 | Ryan Johnson, LHD | 25 | 56 GP, 5 G, 14 A (AHL)

76 | Vsevolod Komarov, RHD | 22 | 55 GP, 4 G, 7 A (AHL)

38 | Noah Laaouan, RHD | 25 | 40 GP, 2 G, 7 A (AHL)

62 | Gavin McCarthy, RHD | 21 | 36 GP, 4 G, 17 A (NCAA)

73 | Zach Metsa, RHD | 27 | 43 GP, 2 G, 4 A

57 | Radim Mrtka, RHD | 19 | 43 GP, 1 G, 33 A (WHL)

25 | Owen Power, LHD | 23 | 81 GP, 8 G, 21 A

3 | Jack Rathbone, LHD | 27 | 49 GP, 5 G, 13 A (AHL)

23 | Mattias Samuelsson, LHD | 26 | 78 GP, 13 G, 28 A

64 | Maxim Strbak, RHD | 21 | 37 GP, 3 G, 15 A (NCAA)

21 | Conor Timmins, RHD | 27 | 39 GP, 0 G, 8 A

8 | Olen Zellweger, LHD | 23 | 76 GP, 7 G, 15 A

Goaltenders (7)

35 | Talyn Boyko | 23 | 5 GP, 0-2-2, .894 SV%, 3.10 GAA (AHL)

92 | Colten Ellis | 25 | 16 GP, 8-4-2, .903 SV%, 2.90 GAA

50 | Topias Leinonen | 22 | 8 GP, 3-3-3, .855 SV%, 3.48 GAA (AHL) (Injured)

1 | Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen | 27 | 35 GP, 22-9-3, .910 SV%, 2.52 GAA

34 | Alex Lyon | 33 | 36 GP, 20-10-4, .907 SV%, 2.77 GAA

32 | Scott Ratzlaff | 21 | 13 GP, 4-6-3, .878 SV%, 3.44 GAA (AHL)

31 | Matt Villalta | 24 | 33 GP, 16-12-3, .895 SV%, 3.10 GAA (AHL)

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Astros Prospect Report: September 15th

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 12: Kevin Alvarez #17 of the Houston Astros on the American League Team looks on in the seventh inning during the 2026 MLB Futures Game at Citizens Bank Park on July 12, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Another day of minor league baseball is in the books. See the results below.

AAA: Sugar Land Space Cowboys (72-72) lost 5-2 (BOX SCORE)

Sugar Land got on the board in the 2nd inning on a Dezenzo RBI double. Alexander started for Sugar Land and allowed 5 runs over 6 innings. Schiavone connected on a solo home run in the 5th to get a run back. The pen tossed 3 scoreless innings but the offense was quiet the rest of the way as Sugar Land fell 5-2.

Note: Schiavone has 32 home runs this season.

AA: Corpus Christi Hooks (62-76) SEASON OVER
A+: Asheville Tourists (43-87) SEASON OVER
A: Fayetteville Woodpeckers (2-0) won 7-4 (BOX SCORE)

The Woodpeckers got on the board in the first inning thanks to a Tryon grand slam. Fraide got the start and dominated tossing 5 scoreless innings with 6 strikeouts. Carrera relieved Fraide and allowed 2 runs but the offense scored 3 more in the 7th on an Alvarez 2 run single and a Luciano groundout. Cassedy allowed a 2 run home run in the 9th but struck out 6 over 2 innings as he closed out the Championship game. Find a more detailed Championship recap here.

Note: The Woodpeckers are the 2026 Carolina League Champions!

Today’s minor league starters:

SL: Brandon McPherson – 7:05 CT

CC: SEASON OVER

AV: SEASON OVER

FV: SEASON OVER