Liverpool principal owner John Henry has insisted Fenway Sports Group "don't settle for mediocrity" amid disappointing performances from its two biggest assets; the Boston Red Sox and the Premier League holders.
Henry was responding to his sacking of the long-serving Red Sox manager Alex Cora in April after the team won just 10 of their first games of their Major League Baseball campaign.
After Sunday's defeat by rivals Manchester United, Liverpool have now lost 18 times in all competitions - their most in a single campaign since suffering the same amount under Brendan Rodgers in 2014-15.
In an email to the Sports Business Journal, Henry referenced an incident when fans criticised the ownership recently, while emphasising the need for hard work in order to turn fortunes around.
"Fans get frustrated. The Sox looked terrible for (their) first 25 games," he wrote.
"I remember a plane flying overhead when we were beating Manchester United 7-0 that read 'FSG OUT!'.
"It doesn't mean you ignore them, it means you work harder – you don't settle for mediocrity. You have to win."
Some Liverpool fans have recently been protesting against planned ticket price increases over the next three years, while some supporters have called for Arne Slot to become the first Reds title-winning boss to be sacked the following year.
May 4, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners shortstop J.P. Crawford (3) celebrates with first baseman Josh Naylor (12) after hitting a two-run home run during the sixth inning against the Atlanta Braves at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images | Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
Happy Tuesday! In an exciting and much-needed win, the Mariners scored five runs in the sixth inning last night to secure a 5-4 win at home. Home runs from Luke Raley and J.P. Crawford powered starter Logan Gilbert to his second win of the season in the series opener against the Atlanta Braves. George Kirby takes the mound tonight against RHP Bryce Elder for the 6:40 PM start.
In Mariners news…
ICYMI: Gabe Speier was placed on the 15-day IL prior to yesterday’s game due to left shoulder inflammation. In a few additional roster moves, LHP Josh Simpson has been recalled from Triple-A Tacoma, RHP Cole Wilcox has been optioned to Triple-A Tacoma, and Jose Suarez has reported to the club.
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 29: Luis Severino #40 of the Athletics pitches in the top of the fifth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Sutter Health Park on April 29, 2026 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Justine Willard/Athletics/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to Tuesday everyone!
The A’s had their off day yesterday and now it’s time to get ready for game action to resume. The team is on the road and on the East Coast yet again, their third trip to the other side of the country already. Not a fun travel schedule to open the year but on the bright side they’re getting these longer trips out of the way early.
We’re in Philadelphia tonight to take on the Phillies in the first of three. The high-priced Phillies, whose $282 million payroll ranks fifth in all of baseball, came into this year with sky-high expectations after winning the NL East. They unfortunately ran into the eventual champion Los Angeles Dodgers in the first round and got knocked out in four games, but they brought back essentially the same team that won 96 games.
Things have not gone their way this season however. They’re sitting in fourth place in their division entering this series at just 14-20, behind the Nationals ($92 million, 26th) and Marlins ($77 million, 30th). They are 10 1/2 games back of the division-leading Atlanta Braves, and a lot of that has to do with under performance on both sides of the ball.
The Philly offense ranks just 17th in home runs, but more worryingly for them they are near the bottom in batting average (28th), on-base percentage (also 28th), slugging (26th), and total runs scored (27th). They’ve gotten solid production out of players like Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper and Brandon Marsh, but the rest of their starting lineup all have an OPS below .700, which should cause panic for Philly fans.
As for their pitching, the team ranks second in all of baseball in strikeouts, but also is just 26th in team ERA. Their pitching staff has given up the most hits in the sport and are tied for fourth in total runs allowed. They’ve certainly missed Zack Wheeler (who only just returned from injury) and Ranger Suarez (FA departure), but veterans Aaron Nola (6.03 ERA), Jesus Luzardo (5.09 ERA), and Taijuan Walker (9.13 ERA) have crippled the Phillies’ starting rotation with poor performances, and top prospect Andrew Painter (5.28 ERA) hasn’t been any better. Meanwhile their bullpen has been middle-of-the-pack as they’ve certainly missed flamethrowing closer Jhoan Duran, who has been on the IL for the past month but is nearing a return, though he’ll likely be activated after the A’s leave town.
Tonight’s series-opening matchup will see right-hander Luis Severino get the ball for the home team. His season to date has certainly seen its peaks and valleys. He has a 4.46 ERA but generally pitches better away from Sacramento. He’s coming off a pair of very strong outings and looks to be on a role entering tonight. He’ll be opposed by Philly ace Cristopher Sanchez, who has kept the Philadelphia rotation afloat with a great 2.90 ERA through his first seven starts.
Wednesday evening’s game will feature left-hander Jeffrey Springs on the mound for the Athletics. The veteran started the year out strong pitching to a 1.46 ERA through his first four starts but he’s been more vulnerable in his past three outings. He actually departed his most recent start with hip tightness but it seems he’s dodged any sort of injury and looks primed for a bounce back against the Phillies, whom he doesn’t have much experience pitching against. He’ll be opposed by Zack Wheeler, Philadelphia’s true ace when healthy. This’ll be his third game since returning from injury and so far he’s looked like he hasn’t skipped a beat. He went five innings of 2-run ball against Atlanta in his first start back, then followed that up with one run allowed over six innings against the Marlins. This could be a tough matchup for the offense if he really is back to his normal self.
And finally the series wraps up on Thursday night with a pitching matchup pitting young right-hander J.T. Ginn against fellow young arm Andrew Painter. Ginn had his first truly bad outing last time out when he allowed five runs in 4 1/3 innings of work against the Guardians, though before that he’d been on a roll so he’ll be looking to bounce back and get back on the right path. Painter on the other hand has given up 11 runs over his previous three starts so the A’s may be getting him at the right time when he’s not quite on his game and still figuring things out. This is, after all, his first big league action of his career.
The A’s sit with a two-game lead in the division entering tonight. It’d be great to extend it with a win over an under performing Phillies squad. We’ll be without one of our biggest bats while in Philly as Shea Langeliers gets some time off to be with his wife and newborn son. Hopefully backup Austin Wynns is ready to take advantage of this opportunity. The A’s made a late night move yesterday evening to give Wynns his backup, trading for Jonah Heim from the Atlanta Braves:
The A's have acquired C Jonah Heim from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for cash considerations. In addition, the A’s have placed C Shea Langeliers on the paternity list.
The move reunited Heim and the A’s after the organization traded him to the Texas Rangers in exchange for Elvis Andrus way back in 2021. The catcher would go on to have a successful run in Texas, making the All-Star Team in 2023. He fell off hard after that excellent year however, spending two more years as the Rangers’ primary backup before moving on to Atlanta this past offseason. He’s only made it into 12 games for the Braves so far and now that former Athletic Sean Murphy is back, Heim’s role became redundant. But not for the A’s. He’ll be Wynn’s backup for this Phillies series, and who knows, he could end up sticking around a bit longer even when Langeliers returns.
First pitch is a little earlier than usual for us here on the West Coast. 3:40 start time this evening. Have a great day A’s fans.
MIAMI, FLORIDA - MAY 03: Xavier Edwards #9 of the Miami Marlins at bat during a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at loanDepot park on May 03, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Wow that was ugly. After a four-game sweep at the hands of the Yankees, the Orioles are making like the snowbirds, leaving the Bronx for the sunnier climate of Miami, and frankly, it’s a relief.
The Marlins are a less scary opponent, but they can’t be taken lightly, either. (And these hot-and-cold Orioles have had a way of playing down to the competition, so you can never get too cocky.) At 16-19, they’re holding down second place in the NL East. They, too, have hot-or-cold tendencies: they took two of three from the mighty Dodgers last week, but have also recently dropped series to St. Louis and Milwaukee.
The Marlins, unusually, are a good-hitting team this year. They’re not much in the power department with a fourth-lowest 25 homers, but their collective .252 average outranks all but seven teams. As a team, they’ve been led by three players playing out of their minds: shortstop Otto Lopez (.341 BA and a MLB-leading 45 hits in 33 games), second baseman Xavier Edwards (.336 BA, .896 OPS) and catcher Liam Hicks (.309 BA, .923 OPS). Hicks, in just his second year, has nearly exceeded his WAR from 120 games his rookie season. Former Orioles friends haven’t excelled: Kyle Stowers has missed time due to a hamstring, and infielder Connor Norby has just been just-OK, with a .238 average and 107 OPS+ so far.
Miami’s starting pitching staff has been a weakness over the last two seasons, despite having a guy like Sandy Alcantara fronting it. This year, the rotation is just above average, while the team’s main weakness lies in the bullpen. The team has blown nine games in which they had a lead, which seems like a sizeable number to me. Closer Pete Fairbanks is on the 15-day IL with nerve irritation, and others, like Anthony Bender, Andrew Nardi and Calvin Faucher, have been ineffective.
Following injuries to Trevor Rogers and Dean Kremer, a pitching-strapped O’s will be countering with Chris Bassitt, Brandon Young and Cade Povich. Young and Povich in particular are giving Little Engine That Could vibes: you root hard for them, but frequently view them as outmatched.
Game 1: Tuesday, May 5, 6:40 ET
Chris Bassitt (2-2, 5.46, 17 SO) vs. RHP Sandy Alcantara (3-2, 3.04 ERA, 31 SO)
Alcantara opened 2026 with his franchise-record sixth straight Opening Day start, throwing 7 shutout innings against the Rockies. He followed that up with a complete-game shutout of the White Sox on April 1, striking out seven and allowing just three hits in a 10-0 romp. After his rough 2025—a full season back from Tommy John surgery that produced a 5.36 ERA—this looks more like the vintage Alcantara, with a fastball that generally sits around 97 mph and maxes out around 101. His 3.04 ERA comes with a solid 1.16 WHIP.
Signs Chris Bassitt is figuring it out: he’s given up one earned run or fewer in three of his last four starts. Signs he’s not: the Royals tagged him for five runs on eight hits on April 22. The veteran righty has a career 3.68 ERA. I choose to believe.
Game 2: Wednesday, May 6, 6:40 ET
Brandon Young (2-1, 6.14 ERA, 9 SO) vs. RHP Eury Pérez (2-3, 4.46 ERA, 39 SO)
Eury Pérez is 23 years old and already seems to have lived a lifetime in pitcher years. He debuted in 2023 at age 20, posting a nice 3.15 ERA in 19 starts. Then he missed all of 2024 with Tommy John. A 4.25 ERA on his return seemed like a dip, but he had a strong 1.05 WHIP and 3.67 FIP. This season has been his worst so far: his 4.63 FIP suggests he’s getting hit, hard, and so does a 13.9% barrel percentage in the bottom seventh percentile of pitchers. The strikeout stuff is very much present, but he’s also walking more hitters than he ever has. This is the matchup the Orioles need to take advantage of.
Thrust into the rotation by Dean Kremer’s quad injury, the big Texan has had one good start in three tries: a scoreless five innings against the White Sox on April 6. Since, he’s given up three runs in 5 ⅔ innings against Boston and—gulp—ten runs in four innings against Houston. There’s been talk about Young working on his offspeed pitches in the offseason: if so, this would be a good time to see it.
Game 3: Thursday, May 7, 6:40 ET
Cade Povich (1-1, 4.41 ERA, 11 SO) vs. RHP Max Meyer (1-0, 3.30 ERA, 33 SO)
Drafted third overall by the Marlins in 2020, Max Meyer is currently Miami’s best starter in sheer WAR (1.1, edging out Alcantara’s 1.0). Through seven starts he has a 3.30 ERA and 33 strikeouts in 30⅔ innings, averaging 9.9 K/9, with opponents hitting just .207 against him. Length isn’t a strength of his, yet, as he’s averaging just five innings per outing, but he’s been effective. His most recent start saw him throw five scoreless innings against the Giants.
The only southpaw in the rotation right now, Cade Povich is always teetering on the edge of success in the major leagues, it feels like. But inevitably he’ll flash his significant strikeout potential, then lay an egg. This inconsistency works out to a kind of consistency, as he posted nearly identical ERA’s in 2023 and ‘24: 5.20, give or take one hundredths of a point. Like Young, Povich was not supposed to be in the rotation, but that’s where we are. In three starts so far, he’s allowed eight runs in 16.1 innings.
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It’s hard to feel massive optimism about the Orioles right now, fresh off a sweep in the Bronx and putting out a starter lineup of Bassitt, Young and Povich heading into Miami. Injuries stink, but this backup plan feels more typical of a rebuilding year than what fans were promised for these next few seasons. Maybe I’m just a grouch. We’ll see if these early May doldrums end up characterizing the season.
So, Birdland faithful, how do you think the Orioles will fare in their trip to the 305? Sound off in the comments.
ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 29: Detroit pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) reacts during the MLB game between the Detroit Tigers and the Atlanta Braves on April 29th, 2026 at Truist Park in Atlanta, GA.(Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Now that we are almost a week into May (yikes!) we’ve rearranged our coverage to reflect the risers and fallers in the AL. Gone are the last place Astros while the similarly bottom-dwelling Red Sox have been demoted from the main games into our “other games” section, the second-place Rays taking their spot alongside the Blue Jays.
Tampa Bay Rays (22-12) 5, Toronto Blue Jays (16-19) 1
The 35-year-old journeyman swingman Nick Martinez is quite well traveled in his baseball career, plying his trade for the Rangers, Padres, and Reds sandwiched a round a four-year stint overseas in NPB. He found a new home with the Rays this past winter, inking a one-year, $13 million deal, and has quietly been one of the best starters in the league. This was his seventh start of the year and he has yet to give up more than two runs in any of them. His five innings of one-run ball position his season ERA at a sterling 1.71 — sixth-best among all starters in MLB.
Toronto’s only run came on a Vladimir Guerrero Jr. RBI single in the third. By that point, the Rays had done most of their damage for the night. Chandler Simpson singled and Junior Caminero walked to lead off the first, setting up a no-doubter three run blast from Ryan Vilade on a first-pitch curveball below the zone from Eric Lauer.
Taylor Walls tacked on a pair of insurance runs in the sixth, his two-out single plating Jonathan Aranda and Ben Williamson after the Rays loaded the bases with three singles. The Blue Jays created plenty of opportunities with ten hits and two walks on the night. However, Martinez and a quintet of Rays relievers stranded a pair in the first, third, and sixth. Things got interesting when Casey Legumina surrendered three singles in the ninth, but Bryan Baker slammed the door as the Jays went 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position and stranded ten runners.
Other Games
Boston Red Sox (14-21) 5, Detroit Tigers (18-18) 4
On the day the Tigers learned that two-time defending AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal requires surgery to remove loose bodies in his left elbow and will miss three months at minimum, the Detroit outfit suffered a back-breaking loss in a game blown by the bullpen. Boston also received bad news on the injury front, Roman Anthony departing the game in the second after injuring his wrist on an awkward check swing.
Forced into an emergency bullpen game with Skubal getting scratched, the Tigers received essentially a Skubal start in the aggregate. Opener Tyler Holton struck out one in a scoreless first, followed by five scoreless innings with seven strikeouts from bulk guy Ty Madden. That allowed their offense to open the scoring with a pair in the sixth on a hit-by-pitch, walk, throwing error on a pickoff attempt, and a throwing error on a routine ground ball.
That would be all for naught, however, as reliever Ricky Vanasco imploded in the seventh. He walked Carlos Narváez and gave up a single to Andruw Monasterio to open the frame, setting up the go-ahead three-run homer from Jarren Duran. A Masataka Yoshida double knocked Vanasco from the game, but the implosion didn’t stop there. Enmanuel De Jesus gave up three straight singles to Wilyer Abreu, Ceddanne Rafaela, and Marcelo Mayer allowing a further pair of runs to score.
Dillon Dingler brought his team to within one with a two-run double in the eighth, but that is where the comeback would end. Payton Tolle collected his first big league win with eight strikeouts across seven innings allowing the pair of unearned runs.
Kansas City Royals (16-19) 6, Cleveland Guardians (18-18) 2
Michael Wacha gave the Royals seven strong innings, the only blemish a David Fry two-run homer in the second. Kansas City scored the next six runs unanswered, Bobby Witt Jr. and Jac Caglianone weighing in with solo homers. Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez contributed RBI knocks while Nick Loftin contributed a two-run single in the Royals’ four-run fourth. With the Guardians loss, there is not a single team in the AL Central with a record better than .500, Cleveland and Detroit tied for first at 18-18.
Seattle Mariners (17-19) 5, Atlanta Braves (25-11) 4
The baseball was uncharacteristically flying out of T-Mobile Park, the two teams scoring all nine of their runs via the long ball. Atlanta jumped out to a 4-0 lead with four solo home runs off Logan Gilbert. The first was by Drake Baldwin to lead off the game, while the final three all came in the sixth inning — all blasts of well over 400 feet from Ozzie Albies, Matt Olson (the 300th of his career), and Austin Riley.
The Mariners immediately picked up their starter, exploding for five runs in the bottom of the sixth. Randy Arozarena and Dominic Canzone drew a pair of walks to lead off, setting up a booming three-run rocket from Luke Raley. Mitch Garver was issued a free pass, and with two outs and a full count, J.P. Crawford smacked the go-ahead two run tank off reliever Tyler Kinley.
HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 17: Bryan Abreu #52 of the Houston Astros pitches against the St. Louis Cardinals during the sixth inning at Daikin Park on April 17, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Jack Gorman/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Astros fans, how are we feeling about Bryan Abreu after this past weekend?
It’s been a rocky start to the season for a pitcher who entered the year with sky-high expectations. Tasked with stepping into a more prominent late-inning role while ace reliever Josh Hader works his way back from injury, Abreu has struggled to find consistency. Instead of being the shutdown arm fans have come to trust, he has too often looked like a fire starter, unable to hold leads, keep runners off base, or slam the door when it matters most.
What’s made his early-season performance even more frustrating is how uncharacteristic it has been. Abreu has built a reputation as a dependable, high-leverage arm, but lately he’s been allowing too many baserunners, both via hits and walks, and, more often than not, those runners have come around to score. On top of all that, his velocity has been down a few miles per hour.
This weekend, however, offered a glimpse of hope.
Abreu delivered two innings of much-needed relief, including a strong eighth inning that resembled the pitcher Astros fans have grown accustomed to. But the ninth inning told a different story. What should have been a clean finish quickly turned into a nerve-wracking escape act. Whether you call it luck or skill, the ground-ball double play that ended the game and secured the save came at a moment when it felt like things were about to unravel once again.
If the outing had ended after the eighth, the takeaway would have been overwhelmingly positive. Instead, the ninth inning left room for continued concern. For now, it’s a reminder that while progress may be underway, trust still needs to be rebuilt.
The bigger picture for Houston only raises the stakes.
If both Abreu and Hader can return to form, it would provide a massive boost to a bullpen that has been overworked and underwhelming. The Astros’ pitching staff as a whole has struggled this season, and their issues with control, evident in a troubling rate of walks, have only compounded the problem. That’s put added pressure on a team whose offense ranks among the top in the American League, but can’t carry the load alone.
There are also financial implications looming. With Abreu approaching a contract year, his performance down the stretch could significantly impact his market value. The Astros, meanwhile, must be cautious about committing long-term money to relievers, a lesson learned the hard way in the past.
Still, there were encouraging signs in his outing against Boston. His velocity ticked up slightly after being down for much of the season, and his slider showed improved location, key factors in limiting hard contact and keeping the ball in the park.
For now, Astros fans will take any step forward they can get. A save is a save, and a win is a win. But until Abreu strings together consistent, clean outings in high-leverage situations, questions about his role, and the bullpen as a whole, will continue to linger.
SURPRISE, AZ - MARCH 20: Carson Roccaforte #3 of the Kansas City Royals bats during the game between the Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers at Surprise Stadium on Friday, March 20, 2026 in Surprise, Arizona. (Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
This Week in the Minors is our weekly look at notable performances from all over the system, from big-name prospects and less-heralded guys alike. The mission is to answer this simple question: “Who had a good week?”
Triple-A Omaha Storm Chasers (14-18, 7.5 games back)
It was another rough week for the Storm Chasers; they lost 4 of 6 at home to the Louisville Bats. We will start on the mound, Stephen Kolek went 4.1 innings, allowing 8 hits, 3 runs, 1 of those being earned, while striking out 4. Kolek is going to start the game tonight for Noah Cameron, who has lower back tightness. In total on his rehab assignments, Kolek made 4 starts, totaling 16.1 innings, giving up 19 hits, 7 runs, 5 earned, walking 4 and striking out 14.
Bailey Falter gave up a run in 2.1 innings. Steven Cruz continues to struggle; he gave up five runs in 3 innings. Helcris Olivarez and Ethan Bosacker each had multiple scoreless appearances.
Carlos Estevez is expected to begin his rehab assignment with the club tomorrow, so that’ll be something to monitor.
At the dish, John Rave was 8—for-23 with a pair of homers. Abraham Toro was 6-for-21 with a pair of homers. Luke Maile, who just got transferred to Omaha was 1-9 at the plate. Luca Tresh however was 10-for-20 with a homer, four doubles and nine runs batted in. Tresh is a 26-year-old catcher who the Royals drafted in the 17th round in 2021.
The Storm Chasers hit the road to take on the Indianapolis Indians. The series runs Tuesday through Sunday.
The Naturals had a great week, taking 5 of 6 from the Springfield Cardinals. At the plate, Carson Roccaforte was 7-for-21 with a homer. On the season, Roccaforte is hitting .260, with 6 homers and 8 stolen bases. Local product Spencer Nivens out of Columbia, Missouri and Missouri State in 2023 went 4-for-11 at the plate. Nivens just returned from the IL after beginning the season on there. He is someone to keep an eye on.
On the mound, Drew Beam threw 6 innings of 2 hit ball, allowing just 1 run. It’s the second straight good start in Double-A for Beam, who got the early season promotion, and then struggled to find his footing. Henry Williams threw 6 innings of 2 run ball on 6 hits in his one start. Felix Arronde, a 23-year-old out of Cuba threw 5 hitless innings in his start. Arronde has steadily worked his way through the system, and is in his first year in Double-A.
The Naturals are on the road in Frisco; the series runs from Tuesday to Sunday.
After going 8-4 during our homestand and taking 5 of 6 games from Springfield, it's time to look back at our @ArkBlueCross Play of the Series.
Here's Carson Roccaforte's team-leading 6th HR — a two-run shot — from Friday, May 1 that helped propel the Nats to a 7-5 win. #GoNatspic.twitter.com/X1bIZq0OX8
— Northwest Arkansas Naturals (@nwanaturals) May 4, 2026
Here are the Naturals players of the month for April.
The River Bandits won 4 of 6 from the Timber Rattlers. On the mound, David Shields threw 5 scoreless innings, allowing just 2 hits, while striking out 6. The 19-year-old lefty continues to impress. Kamden Edge threw 2.1 scoreless innings, lowering his season ERA to 2.53 over 10.2 innings of work. Edge is a 21-year-old righty out of Northern Oklahoma JC. Edge was drafted by the Royals in the 20th round last season.
At the plate, Blake Mitchell was 5-for-16 at the plate with a homer, he also struck out 6 times but walked 1o times in the series. Mitchell continues to have a fascinating season, with three true outcomes, homer, walk or strikeout. Austin Charles continues to have a fantastic season. The 22-year-old shortstop is hitting .364 on the season with three homers and 8 stolen bases. Charles was 7-22 in the series.
The River Bandits are home this week for Cedar Rapids. The series starts Tuesday and runs through Sunday.
— Quad Cities River Bandits (@QCRiverBandits) May 4, 2026
Columbia Fireflies (13-14, 4 games back)
The Fireflies dropped 4 of 6 to the Pelicans in Myrtle Beach. At the plate, Josh Hammond was 5-22 with 3 doubles. The 19-year-old is hitting .298 on the season, with 2 homers and 5 stolen bases. Roni Cabrera was 4-for-17, and is hitting .261 on the season. The Fireflies have a good batch of talented hitters, but former first-round pick Sean Gamble has yet to get going.
On the bump, Kendry Chourio made another start, after some concern from him not making an appearance last week. He went 3.2 innings allowing 1 run on 3 hits, while striking out 4. Chourio’s season ERA is now at 1.65 through 16.1 innings. Jordan Woods is off to a great start. The 22-year-old lefty from Canada has a 2.25 ERA through 20 innings, while striking out 29 batters. He has made a couple starts and came out of the bullpen, even getting a save. He has been the Swiss army knife of the pitching staff.
The Fireflies are on the road this week to take on the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers, the series runs Tuesday through Sunday.
It’s a loaded slate of baseball with all 30 teams hitting the field Tuesday, May 5, and I’ve got a trio of NRFI/YRFI bets to cover you throughout the night.
My favorite MLB picks begin with the Baltimore Orioles-Miami Marlins bout in the early window and wrap up with tonight’s matchup between the Chicago White Sox and Los Angeles Angels.
Best NRFI/YRFI bets today
Pick
Odds
/ - NRFI
-107
/ - NRFI
-103
/ - NRFI
-102
Orioles at Marlins: NRFI (-107)
Baltimore Orioles veteran Chris Bassitt has spun a blemish-free opening inning in three of his past four starts, and he’s coming off a strong outing with just a single run allowed and seven strikeouts across 6 2/3 frames. He’s catching the Miami Marlins at the right time, too. They’ve posted a 28th-ranked wOBA while striking out at the third-highest clip in baseball and averaging just 2.8 runs per game during a 3-6 slump.
Turning to Miami righty Sandy Alcantara, he has pitched a scoreless first inning in six of his seven starts, and the Orioles are tied for last in the majors in percentage of games with a run in the opening frame.
We’re also landing an excellent number because the Nationals have scored in the first inning at the third-highest clip in the league while sporting an unsustainably high .388 BABIP, so statistical correction is set to kick in.
Time: 6:45 p.m. ET
Where to watch: NATS, MNNT
White Sox at Angels: NRFI (-102)
Chicago White Sox starter Erick Fedde has held opposing hitters to a minuscule .385 OPS in the opening frame and pitched a scoreless first in three of his four starts, including last time out against the Los Angeles Angels.
Los Angeles counters with lefty Sam Aldegheri, and he’ll have the benefit of the Chicago lineup seeing him for the first time. So, while Aldegheri’s MLB and Triple A numbers are nothing to write home about, the Pale Hose sport a .231 batting average in the first frame and score in the first inning at a league-average rate of just 28.57%.
Time: 9:38 p.m. ET
Where to watch: ABTV, CHSN
Neil Parker's 2026 Transparency Record
NRFI/YRFI picks: 6-7, -1.37 units
What is a NRFI bet?
NRFI (No Run First Inning) and YRFI (Yes Run First Inning) bets add a thrilling twist to the start of an MLB game. A NRFI bet is a wager that no runs will be scored in the first inning. You're betting that the starting pitchers for both teams will get through the first inning without allowing any runs, whether by striking out batters, inducing ground balls, or through solid defensive play.
A YRFI bet is the exact opposite. You're betting that at least one run will be scored in the first inning. In this case, you’re hoping for an early offensive burst such as a leadoff walk, a timely hit, or even a home run.
NRFI and YRFI bets add excitement to the early part of a game and offer immediate gratification for bettors looking for a quick resolution.
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.
FAYETTEVILLE, AR - MAY 31: Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Ryder Helfrick (27) makes a throw to second base during the NCAA Division I Regional baseball game between the Creighton Blue Jays and Arkansas Razorbacks on May 31, 2025, at Baum-Walker Stadium in Fayetteville, Arkansas. (Photo by Andy Altenburger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
I would be quite surprised if the Washington Nationals do not have a heavy scouting presence in Fayetteville, Arkansas right now. There are two Arkansas Razorbacks players that could be in play for the Nats with their 11th pick in this upcoming draft. Those would be pitcher Hunter Dietz and catcher Ryder Helfrick.
The pair has arguably been the best battery in the SEC, and both are jumping up draft boards this season. They have both been big time performers in the SEC, and both play positions that the Nats need badly. I am going to breakdown their skills, and talk about which one would be a better fit for the Nats.
Let’s start with Helfrick. If you have watched any Nats games this season, you would know that the catching position has been a problem. Keibert Ruiz and Drew Millas have both been total liabilities at the plate. The Nats traded for Harry Ford, but he has been awful in Triple-A this year. It is clear that the Nats still need to be searching for their catcher of the future.
The best catcher in this draft is Vahn Lackey out of Georgia Tech, but he is going to be a top 5 pick. That leaves Helfrick as the consolation prize. He is a very good prospect in his own right, ranking 10th on the Baseball America board and 16th on the MLB Pipeline board. His biggest strengths are his massive power and good defensive chops.
Helfrick has plus raw power and has 33 home runs in 140 career college games. His OPS has been over 1.000 in each of the past two seasons. However, there are some question marks about his hit tool. He does not project to hit for a great average, but the offensive bar for a catcher is not that high.
A good offensive comparison may be pre-2025 Cal Raleigh. That version of Raleigh hit around .220 with 25-30 homers. He was not an MVP candidate, but he was still one of the best catchers in baseball. That could be what we see from Helfrick. It is worth noting that Helfrick has lowered his strikeout percentage every year he has been in college, and is only striking out 17.5% of the time this year.
Kiley McDaniel of ESPN mocked Helfrick to the Nats, noting that the Razorbacks catcher has improved his contact rates significantly. Helfrick fits a need and is in the 11th overall pick range on talent. It just feels like a natural fit, and one we will hear about a lot as we approach the draft.
While Helfrick is a pretty easy prospect to analyze, his teammate Hunter Dietz is more polarizing. You can see how controversial he is based on his range. MLB Pipeline ranks him at 18th, while Baseball America has him all the way at 55th.
Personally, I think BA is way off on this one. Dietz is a massive left handed pitcher who throws in the mid to upper 90’s, while featuring several potentially plus breaking balls. He is not some massive projection either, posting a 3.43 ERA with 101 strikeouts in 65.2 innings in the SEC. Dietz was the first SEC pitcher to reach 100 strikeouts on the season.
Hunter Dietz becomes the first SEC hurler to hit the 100-strikeout plateau in 2026 🔥
This feels like a clear first round profile, so I am not sure what BA is missing here. Dietz did deal with injury issues before this season, and only threw 12.1 innings his first two years of college. However, injuries are just part of the game with pitchers these days. He was also a highly touted high school prospect, so it is not like this has come out of nowhere.
Over the past few years, Paul Toboni’s former club, the Red Sox, have loved a couple things. They really like SEC pitchers and big lefties. Dietz fits both of those categories, which could make him a fit for a front office with so many ties to the Red Sox. Last year, the Red Sox took SEC pitchers with three of their first four picks.
There is some cool video of Dietz throwing to Helfrick in a start against Alabama. Dietz was 95-97 and held the velocity into the 7th inning. Right now, it feels like Dietz could be a slight reach, but if he continues to dominate down the stretch and in post season play, he could fit squarely into the Nats range.
LHP Hunter Dietz (@RazorbackBSB) K'd 9 over 6 IP & FB sat 95-97. Real FB traits w/ ride up to 22" from 7" ft rel ht. Really got rolling as outing went, still had 97 100+ pitches in. Tight CT at 85-87 & CB up to ~2900 RPM, 4-pitch mix. Phys 6'6"/235, big time upside. R-Soph./'26… pic.twitter.com/nIoiNEHyyJ
If he has not already, I would advise Paul Toboni to take a trip down to Arkansas. That is where you can find two of the most exciting prospects in the 2026 MLB Draft that fit the Nats range in the draft and positions of need. Hunter Dietz and Ryder Helfrick are two names Nationals fans need to be monitoring.
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The Chicago Blackhawks wanted to give Connor Bedard a handful of experienced veterans to play with when they selected him first overall in 2023. One of those players was Taylor Hall, who had an accomplished career up to that point.
Hall was coming off a couple of strong years with the Boston Bruins, including their 65-win, record-breaking season. He was a middle-six forward on that team, but he has a Hart Trophy on his mantle from his time with the New Jersey Devils.
Throughout his career, Hall has also dealt with some injuries. When he first arrived in Chicago, he sustained his worst one to date just 10 games into the 2023-24 season. That kept him out for the rest of that season, and he still wasn’t 100 percent right when he returned the following year.
During the 2024-25 season, Hall was traded to the Carolina Hurricanes in a package that involved Mikko Rantanen. This move potentially saved his career. His 9 goals and 9 assists for 18 points in 31 games to end that season with Carolina didn’t exactly light the world on fire, but it was better than the pace he was on with Chicago (9 goals, 15 assists, 24 points in 46 games).
By the time Hall got to the 2025-26 season, he was healthy and ready to go. He also had a full training camp in Rod Brind’Amour’s system, which takes time to get used to. His great skating, even at the age of 34, is perfect for that man-on-man style that they play.
During the regular season, Hall was a great middle-six forward once again. He is no longer the former number one overall pick/Hart Trophy caliber player, but his 18 goals and 30 assists for 48 points in 80 games were just what the Hurricanes needed from him.
In the postseason, Hall has been better than serviceable. He has simply been one of Carolina’s best players. Skating on a line with Jackson Blake and Logan Stankoven, they are the biggest reason that they haven’t lost a game yet (6-0).
Entering Game 2 of their second-round series against the Philadelphia Flyers, Hall had 2 goals and 6 assists for 8 points in the five games. As a secondary scorer at this stage of his career, that’s excellent production at the most important time of year.
After going down 2-0 to the Flyers in Game 2, the Hurricanes came all the way back to tie it, and they needed a hero in overtime. Taylor Hall became that hero when he beat Dan Vladar at 18:54 of the first OT period. His first career overtime goal in the playoffs put his team within two wins of another conference final appearance.
"It was a gritty goal," Hall said. "I didn't do a very good job of attacking tonight. I got that puck, and I wanted to get to the middle of the ice as much as I could. I got a shot off, got the rebound, that was an overtime goal for sure."
Going first overall and winning the Hart Trophy are Hall’s best hockey moments, but he hasn’t scored a goal like this in the NHL until now. This is a well-deserved opportunity for a guy who has had plenty of ups and downs through his career to date.
Late in regulation, the Hurricanes were fighting to get the game to overtime after tying it up. Hall was on the ice, and he was asked about the big play he made to block Noah Cates from possibly setting up the game-winner with seconds remaining.
"I might have over-back-checked on that and come too deep in my zone," Hall said. "As soon as he got the puck, I just wanted to challenge him. I kind of went rogue hockey goalie there for a second. Anyone on our team is going to sell out to try and block that if the situation comes. It was my turn."
Hall's offense has been a staple ever since he came into the league. To be a winner in the NHL, however, you must do what it takes in every situation. For Hall, he did that in all three zones in Game 2.
The Blackhawks did Hall a big favor not only by trading him away from yet another losing situation in his career, but also by getting him to a team like Carolina that will get the most out of his abilities at his age.
Carolina's 2-0 edge in the series is headed to Philadelphia, where the fans there will see it as "far from over". If they can get through, they will play the winner of the Buffalo Sabres and Montreal Canadiens in the Eastern Conference Final.
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As the NHL’s second round gets off and running, don’t overlook the OHL finals, which will feature a couple of prospects who could be parts of the Islanders’ future.
Meanwhile, post-season post-mortems continue in Canada’s top self-loathing hockey capitals.
Islanders News
In a reflective Islanders Anxiety episode, Dan and Mike ponder missed opportunities and see the Oilers with Connor McDavid as a cautionary tale. [LHH]
Prospect Report: We’ve got an OHL finals clash with Luca Romano and Kashawn Aitcheson after Aitcheson’s Barrie Colts completed a comeback from a 3-1 series deficit. [Isles | OHL]
R.I.P. John Sterling, a broadcasting legend and the ‘70s voice of the Isles. [Isles]
Ryan Bowness has been heavy in the running for the Canucks GM gig. [THN]
Reminder that the NHL Draft Lottery is Tuesday night. [NHL]
The Oilers’ stars say the whole franchise needs to be better. [Sportsnet] Spector…interprets. [Sportsnet]
Not instilling any confidence, GM Stan Bowman said “we have to evaluate that” about the goaltending. “Looking for improvement for sure.” [Sportsnet]
Justin Bourne takes a “maybe it won’t be so bad” look at the Leafs hiring John Chayka as GM. [Sportsnet]
But they are putting Mats Sundin front and center as a face of the franchise. [NHL]
There’s gotta be some bad blood out there about Chayka, as the league already had to check into (and clear him of) complaints of tampering with other teams’ front-office personnel. [Sportsnet]
Unconvincing former Senators GM Pierre Dorion has interviewed for the opening in Vancouver. (Also on the list, as noted above: Ryan Bowness of the Isles.) [Sportsnet]
Playoff injuries: Connor McDavid played through a broken bone in his foot, and Roope Hintz never appeared for Dallas due to a double tear in his hamstring. [Sportsnet]
Victor Hedman’s absence was to tend to mental health. [Sportsnet]
We’re back at it with another full slate across the big leagues tonight. My MLB player props will highlight the efforts of Cristopher Sanchez, Jacob deGrom, and Drake Baldwin.
Cristopher Sanchez has been a bright spot in the Philadelphia Phillies’ disappointing season. He’s gone 2-2 with a 2.91 ERA, striking out 50 batters in just 40 1/3 innings. The lefty has serious swing-and-miss stuff, and he’s cashed the Over in Ks in three of his last four appearances.
Sanchez will face the Athletics tonight, who are 19th in strikeouts. The southpaw has 40 Ks in 30 innings at Citizens Bank Park, and he struck out seven last time out against the Giants at home.
Time: 6:40 p.m. ET
Where to watch: NBC Sports California, NBC Sports Philadelphia
Jacob deGrom Under 2.5 earned runs
Jacob deGrom will have a tough task today as he faces the New York Yankees, but that won’t bother the veteran. After all, he just held the Bronx Bombers to one earned run across six frames in his most recent start. In fact, the Texas Rangers ace has hit the Under in earned runs allowed in five consecutive outings.
On the season, deGrom owns a stellar 2.01 ERA, and he has a 2.45 ERA on the road in three starts. The veteran has held this Yankees lineup to a .176 average across 85 at-bats, and Aaron Judge is barely hitting .200 against him, and none of the Yankees' main stars has had any success against deGrom. He’ll deal.
Time: 7:05 p.m. ET
Where to watch: RSN, YES
Drake Baldwin Over 0.5 runs
Drake Baldwin may not be a household name, but he’s sure making people know him very quickly. The catcher leads the big leagues with 46 hits and 33 runs scored. The 25-year-old has come across the plate in three straight contests.
He’s smacked six hits during that span, and the Atlanta Braves are the best team with RISP, batting .275. When he gets on base, it’s become a common theme for Baldwin to touch home plate.
Expect Baldwin to play his part tonight in generating offense, especially as Seattle Mariners starter George Kirby, while effective, has struggled to generate whiffs with his 19.1% strikeout rate.
Time: 9:40 p.m. ET
Where to watch: BravesVSN, Mariners.TV
Quinn Allen's 2026 Transparency Record
Prop picks: 13-24, +1.41 units
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.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 04: Jackson Merrill #3 of the San Diego Padres trots around the bases after hitting a solo home run against the San Francisco Giants in the top of the first inning at Oracle Park on May 04, 2026 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Jackson Merrill hit a first-inning solo home run to put the San Diego Padres ahead of the San Francisco Giants, 1-0 but that was all the offensive excitement the Padres could muster for much of the game. Randy Vasquez started on the mound for San Diego and continued to be effective. However, with an offense that seems to have largely disappeared, the three runs allowed by Vasquez and Luis Arraez, proved to be too much for the Padres to overcome. San Diego dropped the series opener to San Francisco, 3-2. Arraez was the offensive leader for the Giants with two doubles and two runs scored. Merrill was the only offense for the Padres until the top of the ninth inning. He finished the night 2-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI. Ramon Laureano hit a solo home run to lead off the top of the ninth inning to make the score, 3-2 but Fernando Tatis struck out for the third time in the game, Merrill grounded out and Manny Machado struck out on a check swing the end the game. Merrill and Laureano combined for three hits, which were the only hits in the game for San Diego. The Padres did not draw a walk and had 10 strikeouts in the game. San Diego will try to bounce back with a win in the second game of the series at 6:45 p.m.
Padres News:
It’s always hard to say goodbye, but Thomas Conroy of Gaslamp Ball thinks that is exactly what the Padres should do with Nick Castellanos. The veteran was brought in to slug, but he has not been able to get going offensively and San Diego may not have time to wait.
The Padres salvaged their series against the Chicago White Sox with a win in the final game at Petco Park. Griffin Canning started the game and although he did not get a decision, his performance was one of the highlights of the week according to Cheri Bell of Gaslamp Ball.
The Padres added Canning to their rotation on Sunday and Luca Giolito continues to build up in the minors before coming to the big-league team. AJ Cassavell of Padres.com believes they can and should do more.
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - MAY 04: Carter Jensen #22 of the Kansas City Royals signals he was safe after scoring as Tanner Bibee #28 of the Cleveland Guardians gestures in the fourth inning at Kauffman Stadium on May 04, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Yesterday’s first game in Kansas City was… not good.
Tanner Bibee had a horrible inning. Matt Festa gave up a bomb. Travis Bazzana and Brayan Rocchio had bad errors. And José Ramírez is still mired in an early season funk. If the top of your lineup goes 2-24 and those two hits are singles, you’re probably gonna lose.
The Guardians will now face lefties Noah Cameron and Cole Ragans, both of whom have been struggling, to see if they can cool off the Royals who have won 8 of 10.
Tarik Skubal of the Tigers has loose bodies in his elbow and so looks likely for an August return from surgery at best. The Royals and Guardians will look to get some momentum going in that intervening time. But, every baseball fan knows that “there but for the grace of the baseball gods go we” when it comes to pitching injuries.
Gavin Williams will try to do the ace thing and snap the Guardians two-game losing streak tonight
AROUND MLB:
The White Sox beat the Angels and the Tigers lost to the Red Sox.
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Cristopher Sanchez
Jacob deGrom
Drake Baldwin
