Following an injury to goaltender John Gibson during Monday afternoon's 4-2 victory over the Nashville Predators, the Detroit Red Wings called up 2021 first-round pick (15th overall) Sebastian Cossa from the AHL-leading Grand Rapids Griffins.
Cossa was on the ice Wednesday morning, taking shots in the backup net, and head coach Todd McLellan confirmed that he will back up Cam Talbot for Wednesday night’s matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights at Little Caesars Arena, while also noting that Gibson is considered day-to-day.
UPDATE: The #RedWings have recalled Sebastian Cossa from the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins under emergency conditions.
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) March 4, 2026
It's been a record-breaking season for the Griffins, who became the first AHL team in multiple decades to clinch a postseason berth in February.
Cossa's numbers are nothing short of impressive, having gone 24-4-3 while posting a 1.99 goals-against average and a .927 save percentage. He also has five shutouts.
Following Wednesday morning's skate, Cossa fielded questions from reporters and explained that despite his stellar numbers with the Griffins, there's always room for improvement.
"So far, it's been good, but it could be better for sure," Cossa said of his performance in Grand Rapids. "I think still, you could always be better somehow, some way. We've got a key stretch coming up here, and we want to have a really deep playoff run. That's going to be the key thing for me."
Multiple Red Wings players who have spent time in the NHL this season are now back with the Griffins, including first-round draft picks Nate Danielson (ninth overall in 2023) and Michael Brandsegg-Nygård (15th overall in 2024).
Cossa, who has one game of NHL experience from December of last season, has spoken with both of them about their time with the Red Wings and said they’re “chomping at the bit” to return to Detroit.
"We're chatting all the time, they've both had positive experiences up here, and kind of told the same thing going back down there," Cossa said of Danielson and Brandsegg-Nygård. "Just working at getting better, they've been great for us down there. They're chomping at the bit to get back here as well."
During Training Camp in September, Cossa acknowledged how important the upcoming season would be as he looks to earn a new contract as a pending restricted free agent.
It shouldn’t be difficult for the Red Wings to sign Cossa, whom they view as a potential goaltender of the future alongside 2023 second-round pick Trey Augustine, to a new deal.
His numbers this season show he has taken his development seriously, and fans should be eager to see what he may soon accomplish at the NHL level.
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Mar 1, 2026; Clearwater, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Phillies mascot the Phanatic entertains fans against the New York Yankees in the third inning during spring training at BayCare Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images | Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
The Phillies will embark soon on a season that is under some rather intense scrutiny. It’s not just the fanbase that is expecting some results this year when it comes how and where the team ultimately finishes, it’s national media as well. Look around at different people talking about who is on the hot seat and who is not, you’ll probably find multiple outlets talking about the Phillies. It’s also the players themselves. Everyone kind of knows what is at stake here with the team. While we largely preach patience here when it comes to the team, with the players that are impending free agents and the prospects that are nipping at their heels to take over that vacated spot, this does have a bit of a feel of the last hurrah for this form of the team.
Since 2022, we have come to see the team as it being led by a Bryce Harper-Kyle Schwarber-Zack Wheeler core, buffeted by other players like J.T. Realmuto, Alec Bohm, Aaron Nola and Ranger Suarez. With the departure of Suarez this past offseason, we have started to see layers of that team that went to the World Series in 2022 started to fall away. No longer are Suarez and Nick Castellanos gracing the corridors of Citizens Bank Park; now, we will see Adolis Garcia and Andrew Painter. Much as people would like to spin it as the team running it back, a more considered take is that there has been a decent amount of turnover.
Yet the players that remain still have that feel of “we’ve been here before”. Bohm, despite some of the team’s best attempts to move from him, remains probably the best option to give whoever hits third the protection that is required. Realmuto and Schwarber were brought back as the best available free agent options at their positions while Harper, Bryson Stott and Trea Turner continue to provide value in the infield. The outfield does have a different mix of players with Garcia joining Brandon Marsh and (probably) Justin Crawford to form maybe not the most powerful trio of outfielders in the game, but certainly some of the better defensive options the team has had in many a moon.
The pitching staff even has a different vibe to it. This isn’t one led by Wheeler, though he still remains one of the better pitchers in the game. No, this one now has a different Ace in Cristopher Sanchez, backed (at least until Wheeler is ready to resume his duties) by a burgeoning frontline starter in his own right in Jesus Luzardo. The bullpen looks like one of the best overall units on paper now that they have finally decided to hand specific roles to specific pitchers, anchored by Jhoan Duran and Brad Keller at the end of games.
This is a good team, but what ultimately will define a successful season?
The “ring mentality” that has permeated fanbases around the game has warped what constitutes a successful season. We have been conditioned to think that a season is a failure if it is not draped in confetti on the final day the team is together. Many people are criticized for believing that a team has had a good season if they make it to the playoffs, shouted down by those that would like hardware to show for their troubles.
Make no mistake, the Phillies should and could contend for a World Series title this season. Should they join the overwhelming majority of other teams in the game and not hoist the Commissioner’s Trophy at the end of the season, there will be disappointment to go around for all, but that should not push their season to the dustbin of obscurity. They have a roster that should make the playoffs and should contend for the National League pennant and should put up a fight if it reaches the World Series.
It just has to.
But the question here is: what does the team have to do this year to make it successful? That’s what we ask of you.
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Phillies fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
MESA, AZ - FEBRUARY 28: A general view of the Hohokam Stadium signage prior to a Spring Training game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Oakland Athletics on Sunday, February 28, 2021 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Rob Tringali/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
After yesterday’s excursion into international waters, normal, Cactus League service resumes this afternoon for the D-backs with a relatively short trip to Hohokam Park. The D-backs come into this game with a four-game winning streak (not including yesterday, obvs), not having lost a regular pre-season game in a week. It’s the offense who has been getting it done: while Arizona has conceded 22 runs over those four victories, they have scored 33. They have all been pretty close, each ending in a save situation. In fact, the last six Diamondbacks’ contests have all been decided by three runs or fewer. Here’s the line-up for this afternoon:
After Brandon Pfaadt, candidates to pitch are from the following: RHP Yilber Díaz, LHP Brandyn Garcia, RHP Tom Hatch, RHP Andrew Hoffmann, LHP Philip Abner, RHP Paul Sewald, RHP Isaiah Campbell, RHP Gerardo Carrillo, RHP Jonathan Loaisiga and LHP Spencer Giesting. Plenty to choose from there, and a few names who I expect to be competing for spots in the bullpen by the end of the month. As for Pfaadt, this is his first game in the Cactus League: he has thrown on the backfields. This is because he is being eased into action after having a “side issue” earlier in the off-season. We’ll see how deep he goes into the game today.
No TV or radio today, so a Gameday only kind of afternoon. Probably be fairly quiet.
SURPRISE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 17: (ALTERNATIVE CROP) Jacob deGrom #48 of the Texas Rangers poses for a portrait during photo day at Surprise Stadium on February 17, 2026 in Surprise, Arizona. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Today the Texas Rangers invite the World Baseball Classic squad from Brazil to Surprise, AZ for a tune-up.
The game may seem even more exhibition-y than a regular Cactus League contest, but it is noteworthy for Texas in that both former New York Mets favorites Jacob deGrom and Brandon Nimmo will be making their 2026 spring debuts with Nimmo suiting up for Texas for the first time.
RHP deGrom will make the start for Texas opposite a lefty named Enzo Sawayama for Team Brazil.
I don’t believe this game is being broadcast anywhere but you can follow along on Gameday. First pitch from Surprise Stadium is scheduled for 2:05 pm CT.
Brendon McCullum’s future as England coach has received a boost following the national team’s qualification for the T20 World Cup semi-finals, with the white-ball success softening the blow after the Ashes disaster.
The Carolina Hurricanes travel west to take on the Vancouver Canucks tonight.
Kevin Lankinen will see plenty of action inside Rogers Arena, and my Hurricanes vs. Canucks predictions are counting on the Vancouver netminder staying busy between the pipes.
Find out more in my NHL picks for Wednesday, March 4.
Hurricanes vs Canucks prediction
Hurricanes vs Canucks best bet: Kevin Lankinen Over 27.5 saves (-120)
Vancouver Canucks goaltender Kevin Lankinen has been lit up to the tune of an .800 save percentage and 5.20 GAA across his past seven appearances, so we’re landing a fair total for his saves total tonight against the Carolina Hurricanes.
The Hurricanes are second in the league in shots per game (32.1) and pace the NHL in Corsi For percentage at five-on-five, so Carolina is positioned to pepper Lankinen with rubber.
Additionally, Vancouver has allowed an average of 30.9 shots over its past eight games and just traded away top-four defenseman Tyler Myers.
Hurricanes vs Canucks same-game parlay
In addition to the Hurricanes dominating possession at the 5-on-5, they’ve also allowed the seventh-fewest goals per game (2.8).
Turning to the final leg of this same-game parlay, Canucks winger Connor Garland has recorded 2+ shots in six of his past nine games, including racking up a team-high 40 attempts.
Carolina has hit the Under in seven of its last nine road games (+4.95 Units / 50% ROI). Find more NHL betting trends for Hurricanes vs. Canucks.
How to watch Hurricanes vs Canucks
Location
Rogers Arena, Vancouver, BC
Date
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Puck drop
10:00 p.m. ET
TV
FDSN-SO, SNP
Hurricanes vs Canucks latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
The Florida Panthers have placed defenseman Tobias Bjornfot and goaltender Louis Domingue on NHL waivers.
Bjornfot has been up with the Panthers since Jan. 4, skating in 11 games, recording two goals and three points, while averaging 11:33 of ice time. Bjornfot has performed well in the NHL this season, but with the return of Dmitry Kulikov and the expected return of Seth Jones in the short term, roster and salary cap space will need to open up.
If Bjornfot clears waivers, he’ll return to the Charlotte Checkers in the AHL, where he was named an All-Star, although he did not attend the All-Star event as he was with the Panthers in the NHL at the time.
As for Domingue, he’s been signed to an AHL deal since November, but after the Panthers inked him to a two-way deal, he’ll need to clear waivers to be able to rejoin the Checkers.
He’s only played seven games with the Checkers, recording an .831 save percentage and a 3.20 goals-against average.
Domingue is less of a threat to be claimed off waivers than Bjornfot is. At 24 years old, Bjornfot has 145 games of NHL experience, which could entice teams to add him as potential depth as we near the post-season.
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TEMPE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 21: Josue de Paula #95 of the Los Angeles Dodgers walks before the spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium on February 21, 2026 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Dodgers take a break from Cactus League action to host Team Mexico on Wednesday. It’s one of 15 games across Arizona and Florida on Wednesday with a World Baseball Classic team tuning up by playing a major league team.
Tyler Glasnow takes the ball first for the Dodgers against Mexico. Emmet Sheehan is also slated to pitch. Josue De Paula has played nearly every day this spring, but today is his first start.
Following yesterday’s break from Cactus League action to play an exhibition against Team Brazil, the Athletics return to traditional spring training action this afternoon against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Left-hander Jeffrey Springs will be making the start for the A’s today. He is looking for an improved performance this afternoon after giving up for runs in nearly two innings in his spring debut last Friday. Last year, Springs was reliable and available, finishing the season with a 4.11 ERA compiled over 30 starts. Entering his second season with this team, the A’s need him to continue taking the ball every fifth day and pitching to the best of his capabilities in order for the team to reach its lofty goals.
The A’s lineup this afternoon shakes out like this:
The starting nine the A’s are jotting out today is full of regulars. In fact, the team’s lineup card they submit to the umpires on Opening Day in Toronto may look the exact same, at least the first seven batters. The final two batters, minor leaguers Henry Bolte and Junior Perez, are getting the start due to players still recovering from injury (Lawrence Butler) and with their World Baseball Classic (WBC) teams (Denzel Clarke and Carlos Cortes). After a slow start, Bolte has been playing better the past few days, showing off his all-around skillset that makes him the team’s top outfield prospect.
Diamondbacks right-handed pitcher Brandon Pfaadt will be making his 2026 spring training debut. He will likely not pitch more than an inning or two. Here is how Arizona lines up behind him:
The Diamondbacks lineup is largely devoid of regulars, aside from the team’s starting catcher, Gabriel Moreno, who will be their designated hitter this afternoon. This is because Arizona has had multiple starters leave camp to join their respective countries for the WBC. As a result, there is no excuse for Springs to not perform better in his second spring outing as he continues preparing for the start of the regular season.Can the A’s make it three wins in three days? Let’s go A’s!
Los Angeles Clippers guard Kris Dunn could be one of the most underappreciated players in the NBA.
He's not only Los Angeles’ top perimeter defender, but the veteran guard has upped his offensive efforts over the past month, averaging almost 10 points per game in the Clippers' last 10 outings.
Los Angeles is a sizable home favorite against the Indiana Pacers tonight, and my Pacers vs. Clippers predictions and NBA picks like Dunn to keep contributing on both ends of the floor.
Pacers vs Clippers prediction
Pacers vs Clippers best bet: Kris Dunn Over 7.5 points (-105)
As mentioned, Kris Dunn has been doing more on the offensive side since early February.
He’s scored 8+ points in seven of the L.A. Clippers' past 10 games, including 16 points in the recent win over Golden State.
Dunn, who went 7-for-10 in just 26 minutes Monday, faces an Indiana Pacers team riding out a lost season. Indiana has dropped six straight showings and sits 27th in defensive rating over its last 10 outings.
Wednesday’s game will have a quicker tempo, with Indiana involved, and Dunn’s player projections range from 7.9 to 8.8 points.
Pacers vs Clippers same-game parlay
The Clippers are fighting to stay in the conversation for the play-in tournament while the Pacers are in full “tank mode”, sliding into L.A. on a six-game losing skid. Indiana is 1-9 SU and 4-6 ATS in non-conference road games.
Dunn is averaging almost 10 points over the last 10 games. His projections flirt with nine points versus a Pacers team trying to tank for a Top 3 pick.
Andrew Nembhard is seeing his playing time tick down with Indiana giving up on the season, and the guard is nursing a sore back. His projections are as low as 12.4 points tonight.
Pacers vs Clippers SGP
Clippers -12.5
Kris Dunn Over 7.5 points
Andrew Nembhard Under 15.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: Best Supporting Actors
In La La Land, you need a strong supporting cast. With the Clippers running away from the Pacers, I like L.A. to spread the love around to Dunn, Brook Lopez, and Kobe Sanders — all of whom are projected to top their scoring totals tonight.
Pacers vs Clippers SGP
Clippers -12.5
Kris Dunn Over 7.5 points
Brook Lopez Over 9.5 points
Kobe Sanders Over 6.5 points
Pacers vs Clippers odds
Spread: Pacers +12.5 | Clippers -12.5
Moneyline: Pacers +500 | Clippers -700
Over/Under: Over 227 | Under 227
Pacers vs Clippers betting trend to know
The Pacers have only covered twice in the past 11 games since February 3. Find more NBA betting trends for Pacers vs. Clippers.
How to watch Pacers vs Clippers
Location
Intuit Dome, Inglewood, CA
Date
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Tip-off
10:30 p.m. ET
TV
FDSN-Indiana, FDSN-SoCal
Pacers vs Clippers latest injuries
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.
LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 25: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket during the game against the Houston Rockets on December 25, 2025 at Crypto.Com Arena 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 2025 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Once again, the Western Conference playoff race is looking to be a tight one, and the Lakers are right in the thick of it.
Entering the final weeks of the season, little separates seeds three through seven, meaning nearly anything is on the table for the Lakers. By the start of the playoffs, they could be looking at home court advantage or staring at another play-in game.
The difference in their spot in the standings could be the smallest of tiebreakers.
Here is how seeding is decided in the event that two teams have an identical record at the end of the regular season, via NBA.com
TIEBREAKER BASIS FOR TWO-WAY TIES:
(-) Tie breaker not needed (better overall winning percentage)
(1) Head-to-head won-lost percentage
(2) Division leader wins tie from team not leading a division
(3) Division won-lost percentage for teams in the same division
(4) Conference won-lost percentage
(5) W-L Percentage vs. Playoff eligible teams, own conference
(6) W-L Percentage vs. Playoff eligible teams, other conference
(7) Net Points, all games
With head-to-head being the first decider, let’s take a look at the tiebreaker situation between the Lakers and all teams they are currently competing with for a playoff spot.
Houston Rockets
The Lakers lost to the Rockets on Christmas Day, but bounced back, winning the last two matchups against Houston on the road. With no more games left against the Rockets, the Lakers have won the season series and own the tiebreaker over Houston.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Since the Lakers have won all three games against the Wolves, they have swept the season series and hold the tiebreaker. The Lakers were dominated by the Wolves in the postseason last year, but this season, they took care of business against their Western Conference opponent.
Denver Nuggets
Under Lakers head coach JJ Redick, the Lakers have had success against the Nuggets. Last year, they split the season series 2-2, and this season, they’ve won it 2-1 thanks to a thrilling overtime win in their final contest of the season.
So, if LA ends up even with Denver, they’ll have the tiebreaker on their side.
Phoenix Suns
With only one game remaining between the two, the Suns already own the tiebreaker over the Lakers as they’ve won three of the four contests.
The Lakers and Suns play an extra game this season after meeting during the NBA Cup knockouts rounds following losses for both sides in the quarterfinals.
Golden State Warriors
Considering that the Lakers are six games ahead of the Warriors and that Golden State is currently playing without Steph Curry, it’s very unlikely these teams will have the same record when it’s all said and done.
Currently, LA is ahead 2-1 in the season series, but they need to win the final matchup they have against the Warriors on Apr. 9 or else they’ll be even in head-to-head matchups on the year.
Even if LA loses this upcoming game, the Warriors would have to have a better record in the Pacific Division, since that’s the next tiebreaker. Currently, Golden State is 6-6 in the division and the Lakers are 8-7. The aforementioned extra game against the Suns could be a determining factor in this tiebreaker.
Overall, the Lakers are in a good position in most tiebreaking situations. They have the advantage over the Wolves, Warriors, Nuggets and Rockets.
In short, they still control their own destiny. This late into the season, that’s exactly where teams want to be.
The Milwaukee Bucks brought back Giannis Antetokounmpo, but it is fair to wonder to what end. The Atlanta Hawks are four games ahead in the standings for the final Play-In spot in the Eastern Conference, and that should become five games tonight.
My Hawks vs. Bucks predictions and NBA picks will not put faith in Atlanta, but they will also not put faith in Giannis aside from crashing the glass on Wednesday, March 4.
Hawks vs Bucks prediction
Hawks vs Bucks best bet: Giannis Antetokounmpo Over 10.5 rebounds (+110)
Giannis Antetokounmpo returned to the court on Monday, his first action since late January. The Milwaukee Bucks’ cornerstone struggled from the field, going 7-of-18 for 19 points, but he was still an asset.
Antetokounmpo’s 11 rebounds showed he’s still impacting the game despite being out of rhythm. That rhythm might take time to return, but those misses create more chances for him to crash the boards against the Atlanta Hawks.
Hawks vs Bucks same-game parlay
Antetokounmpo’s rhythm will struggle as long as he is on a minutes restriction, playing just 25 in his return.
Milwaukee’s three-game losing streak will also plague some of his play, as the Bucks have little incentive to win or stress their superstar.
Hawks vs Bucks SGP
Giannis Antetokounmpo Over 10.5 rebounds
Giannis Antetokounmpo Under 25.5 points
Hawks moneyline
Our "from downtown" SGP: Broken Bucks
Milwaukee has not cracked 100 points in its last three games, a trend that underscores that this roster is more broken than Antetokounmpo deserves.
Hawks vs Bucks SGP
Giannis Antetokounmpo Over 10.5 rebounds
Giannis Antetokounmpo Under 25.5 points
Hawks moneyline
Under 232.5
Hawks vs Bucks odds
Spread: Hawks +1 (-110) | Bucks -1 (-110)
Moneyline: Hawks -105 | Bucks -115
Over/Under: Over 232.5 (-110) | Under 232.5 (-110)
Hawks vs Bucks betting trend to know
Milwaukee is 0-3 against the spread in its last three games, falling short of bookmakers’ expectations by at least 20 points in each of those games. Find more NBA betting trends for Hawks vs. Bucks.
How to watch Hawks vs Bucks
Location
Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, WI
Date
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Tip-off
9:30 p.m. ET
TV
ESPN
Hawks vs Bucks latest injuries
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Ahead of Friday's NHL trade deadline, the market is flush with right-shot defenseman, which works for and against the Philadelphia Flyers. If they want to add, though, now might be a good time.
With Western Conference contenders like Edmonton and Dallas adding the likes of Tyler Myers and Connor Murphy, respectively, the Flyers are rapidly losing trade destinations for veteran Rasmus Ristolainen.
Still, Buffalo, Detroit, and Boston remain as legitimate, but overall less likely, trade partners for Ristolainen and the Flyers.
And should the Flyers end up dealing Ristolainen like everyone expects them to, they can quickly pivot up the turnpike and replace him with a younger, exciting, and more talented option.
On Wednesday, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun reported that the New Jersey Devils are fielding calls on 2022 No. 2 overall pick Simon Nemec as they work through their defensive logjam and attempt to find some long-term roster clarity.
"New Jersey happy to keep him, but if there's a deal that upgrades their forwards in a real way, they're going to listen," LeBrun said of Nemec.
The Flyers, of course, are flush with middle-six options that would help their Metropolitan Division rivals out at the cost of a future top-four defenseman.
Names like Bobby Brink, and Owen Tippett, especially, make the most sense for the Devils, as do Tyson Foerster and Noah Cates.
The Devils badly need center depth and complementary pieces for Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier, and Tippett, Cates, and Foerster should all be enough to begin moving the needle for Nemec.
As we know, the Flyers are eventually going to need to move out bodies on their flanks to make room for their youngsters.
Porter Martone is virtually earmarked for an NHL role next season, and Denver Barkey has been earning his keep as an injury replacement for Foerster. Nikita Grebenkin could always take on a larger role, and players like Alex Bump and Shane Vansaghi will eventually make their ways into the lineup, too.
We'd also be unwise to rule out forwards Jack Berglund and Jett Luchanko for NHL roster spots next season.
It's not overly common for two rivals to make a deal of this magnitude, but this would work out very well for both sides.
Tippett should be the Devils' first choice, even if there is some extra work to be done in regards to the salary cap afterwards. Then, a top-six role immediately opens up for Martone out of college.
The Flyers' defense would then boast both Nemec and Jamie Drysdale with Oliver Bonk, Spencer Gill, and Carter Amico still on the way. Presumably, one of those players would be swapped with a left-shot option to balance things out.
Nemec, 22, has 21 points in 47 games this season and has taken a real step forward at both ends of the ice.
Provided Travis Sanheim moves back to the left side for the Flyers, Nemec immediately becomes their No. 1 right-shot defenseman.
If the two sides can get a beneficial deal done, the opportunities to get the rebuild going again would be nearly endless for the Flyers.
PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 02: Gary Gill Hill #17 of Team Great Britain poses for a photo during the Team Great Britain photo day at American Family Fields of Phoenix on Monday, March 2, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/WBCI/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Previous Winner
Gary Gill Hill, RHP 21 | 6’2” | 160 A+ | 3.82 ERA, 4.37 FIP, 136.2 IP (25 GS), 18.8% K, 5.3% BB
A groundballer, Gill Hill was a feather in the cap for the Rays scouting department when snagged in the sixth round in 2022. He raised his armslot in 2024 to great success, but got off to a rocky start in 2025, which muddies the water on his statline. On the whole, GGH has the body and the look to be a major league starter, particularly thanks to a plus fastball in the upper 90’s and plus control, but needs to find a longterm solution for opposite handed hitting as he climbs the ladder. Accordingly, he projects as a reliever until his arsenal finds a plus third pitch.
Rank
Player
Position
Votes
Total
Percentage
Last Season
1
Carson Williams
SS
14
25
56%
1
2
Brody Hopkins
RHP
19
25
76%
8
3
Jacob Melton
OF
14
28
50%
N/A
4
Theo Gillen
OF
14
26
54%
13
5
Ty Johnson
RHP
12
25
48%
15
6
Daniel Pierce
SS
13
23
57%
N/A
7
Jadher Areinamo
INF
15
28
54%
N/A
8
TJ Nichols
RHP
13
28
46%
N/R
9
Michael Forret
RHP
8
33
24%
N/A
10
Santiago Suarez
RHP
11
30
37%
16
11
Anderson Brito
RHP
7
28
25%
N/A
12
Xavier Isaac
1B
9
28
32%
3
13
Caden Bodine
C
10
25
40%
N/A
14
Brendan Summerhill
OF
11
27
41%
N/A
15
Slater de Brun
OF
10
25
40%
N/A
16
Nathan Flewelling
C
8
26
31%
N/R
17
Trevor Harrison
RHP
9
26
35%
10
18
Jose Urbina
RHP
13
26
50%
25
19
Tre’ Morgan
1B/LF
15
25
60%
4
20
Jackson Baumeister
RHP
12
27
44%
12
21
Aidan Smith
OF
17
29
59%
6
22
Homer Bush Jr.
OF
10
25
40%
21
23
Dom Keegan
C
10
28
36%
9
24
Gary Gill Hill
RHP
8
25
32%
11
The vote was well divided now that Keegan is off the board, eight other players got votes but none more than four, but we landed on Great Britain’s Gary Gill Hill. We add Taitn Gray next. Some suggestions for Testers: Mac Horvath, Joe Rock, Maykel Coret, Alex Cook, Warel Solano, Tatem Levins, Dean Moss, or Jonathan Russell.
Candidates
Fabricio Blanco, SS 17 | S/R | 5’11” | 161
A bat-first middle infielder, the Venezuelan is an elite prospect within the context of the international signing process, with some believing he’s the best Rays signee this off-season, despite gathering only a $1 million bonus. He can barrel up from both sides of the plate, but may settle into a right handed swing in the long term, with quick hands. He has the ability and instincts to stick at short, with a high-IQ approach and gritty demeanor.
Cooper Flemming, SS 19 | L/R | 6’3” | 190
One of the best high school bats in the 2025 draft, Flemming surprisingly fell into the Rays laps in the second round. He has a too-quiet swing that lacks the load necessary to hit for power, but he’s historically compensated for that with a high contact rate that would have rated him as first round material if his defense projected to stick. The Rays were able to convince him to forgo an education at Vanderbilt by going above slot ($2.3m, Comp-A money).
Taitn Gray, 1B/OF/C 18 | S/R | 6’4” | 220
The Rays 86th overall pick in 2025, Gray fell to the third round due to some concern about whether he will stick at catcher, but that buries the lead. Still just 17 at the time of the draft, Gray showed up to the Rays organization and proved his rumored power was real, running exit velocities up to 115 mph from both sides of the plate, although the left handed swing is sweeter. He has plus athleticism, which elevated his bat speed, foot speed, and fluidity — despite his size. It will be interesting to see where the Rays deploy him on defense, but it’s a great bat to dream on.
Brailer Guerrero, OF 20 | L/R | 6’1” | 215 A | 249.338/.399 (119 wRC+) 222 PA, 6 HR, 9 SB, 11.3% BB, 29.3% K AFL | 2 H, 0 HR, 2 SB, 3 BB, 16 K, 29 PA
Good news: the $3.7 million 2023 signee made the leap out of the complex league in his final teenage season. Bad News: He was injured yet again, with hamstring and knee injuries limiting him to 51 games for Charleston. The Rays tried to make up for lost time with an aggressive assignment to the AFL that resulted in only two hits in 29 plate appearances. He makes loud contact from a quick, quiet swing which he pre-loads by reaching back for even more power. He appears to make early decisions to swing, leading to a bit extra whiffs against anything off-speed, but that could easily clear up with some consistent playing time.
Victor Mesa Jr., OF 24 | L/L | 5’11” | 195 AAA (MIA) | .301/.368/.510 (136 wRC+) 171 PA, 7 HR, 4 SB, 9.9% BB, 16.4% K MLB (MIA) | 6 H (1 HR), 5 BB, 5 K (81 wRC+) 38 PA
This Cuban power bat already made his major league debut with Miami last year after bouncing back from a spring hamstring injury, and was dealt to the Rays in February. He profiles as a fourth outfielder but has an option remaining, so the organization may send him down for regular playing time and one last chance for something more in development. If not, he’s a center field capable on defense, which goes a long way for a platoon bat. In the running for the nicest guy in baseball.
Acquired in the Shane Baz trade, Overn was once a top draft prospect after committing to baseball over football at USC, but surprisingly struggled as a draft-eligible sophomore. That didn’t stop Baltimore from taking him in the third round (97th overall) in 2024. Now a professional, Overn overhauled his swing in the first half of 2025, and earned an early promotion to Double-A for his efforts, where he didn’t look overmatched. His biggest threat is his speed, which raises his floor and gives him an easy projection to a major league bench thanks to plus defensive instincts (BA gave 70’s to his run and field tools). His offensive profile is buoyed by his ability to work the count, but evaluators would like to see him punish fastballs more often for him to be considered a regular.
The Rays 58th overall pick in 2024, Pitre has risen on draft boards through a strong performance in the Cape Cod league in 2023, but the power was a real question mark on his profile. Now given a chance to develop as a professional, he wouldn’t be the first to add muscle. His run and hit tools are plus, with a well coiled swing and solid contact in and out of zone. He’s too old to return to High-A and it be viewed as positive. His power stroke will be the key to his success in 2026.
Adrian Santana, SS 20 | S/R | 5’11” | 155 A+ | .263/.324/.326 (94 wRC+) 409 PA, 2 HR, 47 SB, 8.6% BB, 12.0% K
Once a top-ten or so prospect in 2024, Santana fell off our site’s 2025 list after failing to clear as an honorable mention. Why? The switch-hitting slick fielding short stop was the Rays 31st overall pick in 2023 but has delivered sub-100 wRC+ each stop of his career, although that got closer than ever last season, his third as a professional and his third as a teenager in the Rays system. Could expectations be too high on his bat? He has plus athleticism, is learning to wheelhouse, and has “acrobatic” defense at the hardest position in the game, with 98 swiped bags over the last two seasons. What happens if he survives the test of Double-A breaking balls?
Taylor entered 2025 as a top-100 prospect after demolishing High-A (154 wRC+), and left 2025 as an afterthought on prospect lists, although he was selected as an Arizona Fall League “Fall Star” in between, where he worked to keep his chase rate low and his hard hit rate high. The juice must have been worth the squeeze, as the Rays have elected to invite Taylor to major league Spring Training this year.
Victor Valdez, SS 17 | R/R | 6’1” | 186
A pretty swing with a low whiff rate earned Valdez a big payday this winter — $3.5 million — with as good of a power projection as you can reasonably ask for from a a teenage bat, having been given a 25+ home run projection by Baseball America, who also praise his plus foot speed, bat speed, and control of the zone. Reports say he has ever improving lateral movements on defense, with smooth actions and a strong arm. If it all clicks, it’s a middle-of-the-order bat on the left side of the infield. At signing, the Rays gave him a comp to Francisco Lindor. It will be interesting to see if his first professional season can solidify the five tool profile.
Nikola Jokic is considered by many to be the best player in the NBA today. He's even earned some top-ten all-time chatter in recent years. So, when Jokic's Denver Nuggets face the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, defensive specialist Lu Dort's job is simple: make Jokic's life a living hell for 48 minutes.
On Friday, Feb. 27, Dort tried to do just that, but went overboard, hip-checking Jokic as he was coming up the court.
Lu Dort was ejected after appearing to trip Nikola Jokic on this play.
Tempers flared. A fight broke out. And Dort was ejected.
Following Tuesday's win over the Chicago Bulls though, Dort was asked about the scuffle, to which he is now saying he crossed a line.
Dort said, "That’s a physical game and there’s limits to it. And I went over the limit." He continued, "That was an unnecessary move by me, something I shouldn’t have done."
What else did Dort say?
While Dort did admit he went too far, he also noted that any game between the Thunder and Nuggets turns into a physical affair.
"Every time we play against each other, it’s always a battle," he said. "It was a physical game throughout the whole game."
Dort continued, noting that his job of guarding the opposing team's best player every night can be taxing. "It’s not easy. Obviously, I play hard. I’m a physical player. It’s what I do for my team, and sometimes people think it’s too much, but it’s always [within] the rules of the game."
When asked if Dort considered himself a dirty player, Dort said no.
"I don’t think I’m dirty," he said. "I can’t control media. Media always wants to have some type of attention or anything. They want that buzz. I can’t control that. I’ve been doing well with this organization for years now. I’m happy with how I play and what I do with my teammates. I go out there, compete every night. So I’m gonna keep doing what I do on the court."
Is Dort considered a dirty player?
Throughout his seven years in the NBA, Dort's ejection on Friday was just the fourth of his career. He has nine technical fouls and six flagrant fouls to his name as well.
Those are actually small figures compared to some of the more notable enforcers around the league, like Draymond Green. However, Dort's reputation is that of someone willing to get physical, and although many of his tactics have not resulted in ejections, many players around the league believe he has earned the "dirty" moniker.
Sebastian Cossa Called Up To Red Wings Under Emergency Conditions The Detroit Red Wings have announced that goaltender Sebastian Cossa has been called up under emergency conditions. 
