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Jaylen Brown talks transition to Sixers, adjustment to ‘different dimension'

Jaylen Brown talks transition to Sixers, adjustment to ‘different dimension' originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

Jaylen Brown gave Sixers fans even more to celebrate in his Twitch stream on Monday evening. 

The former Celtics forward discussed his trade to Philadelphia, what he thinks of the Sixers’ roster and how he’s approaching the next chapter in his career.

What’s paramount for the 2024 Finals MVP? Winning.

“At this point in my career, I would say I want to win more than I ever have,” he said. “I’m more inspired to win than anything. I’ve been a little disrespected in this process for whatever reason.

“I want to win more than anything. So, I’m looking forward to that journey, the approach, the leadership, the sacrifice and whatever it’s going to take.”

On a team with four ball-dominant stars, there will reasonably be an adjustment period. Brown (35.1%), Embiid (33.6%), Tyrese Maxey (28.6%) and LeBron James (26.2%) were all among the top 50 players with the highest usage rates in the 2025-26 NBA regular season. 

“It’s going to take a lot of kind of feeling things out with each other, everybody getting on the same page, constant communication,” Brown said. 

He also mentioned that he’s lost roughly seven pounds this offseason in preparation for the 2026-27 season. 

“Just to be a little more fast and nimble. I’ve got to keep up with Maxey and Edgecombe and LeBron this year,” Brown said. “I feel great. I’m jumping higher and running faster.”

Playing with that group clearly excites Brown. Playing with James especially. He emphasized that he’s eager to learn from the league’s all-time scoring leader. 

“We got Bron. What an opportunity that is,” Brown said. “To have the opportunity to learn from one of if not the greatest player of all time. I get an opportunity to, on the court, off the court, learn and gather experiences that can accumulate to my own knowledge base.”

Brown referenced the story of his recent skydiving adventure in Egypt. He even revealed that he texted James, Edgecombe, Maxey and Embiid to say that, if the Sixers win the 2026-27 NBA championship, they’re all going skydiving. 

James’ response? 

“Boy, hell no.”

James wasn’t the only new teammate Brown spoke about. 

“It’s also other guys you get the opportunity to learn from. Embiid, Maxey, Edgecombe, even vets like [Kentavious Caldwell-Pope], Anfernee [Simons]. It’s a fun time.”

Simons and Brown will reunite in Philadelphia after playing together in Boston for part of the 2025-26 season. 

“When he was there, he added to winning, he played defense,” Brown said. “He did exactly what the team needed [him] to do.” 

Brown put on a Sixers jersey for the first time on the stream, sporting the team’s black Hardwood Classic Edition Uniform that throws back to Allen Iverson and the 2000-01 NBA Finals team. It’s a jersey Brown’s admired since playing against the Sixers when they wore it last year. 

He was also struck by the element of change. Brown noted that it was the first time in his 10-year career when he’s worn another team’s jersey. 

“I feel like we just jumped into an alternate timeline,” he said. “We’re in a different dimension. We’re in a parallel universe or something. Whatever universe we’re on, whatever team I’m on, my mindset is to win. So, I’m looking forward to that.” 

Brown was also surprised that Iverson was already wearing Brown’s Sixers jersey just 11 days after he was traded.

“How’d the OG get the jersey?” he asked. “I just got traded yesterday, OG already wearing the jersey.”

Brown will make his way to Philadelphia for the first time since being traded to the Sixers this week. His introductory press conference takes place Thursday at 2 p.m. ET before he’ll throw out the first pitch at the Phillies’ game against the Nationals later that evening. 

“Looking forward to that, looking forward to going to the Phillies game,” Brown said. “It’s definitely a major transition in my career, a major transition in my life.

“I’m super excited. Philadelphia, let’s get it. Throw the ball up.”

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NL Wild Card Race and Trade Deadline Impacts

Looking skyward in 2026. (Photo by Swen Pförtner/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Inspiration.

The Diamondbacks are above .500 and I’m excited that they could play in the postseason. At the same time, many starting pitchers are on the injured list, and there is delay in the return of Corbin Burnes.  Also, performance at first base, left field, and center field are weak.  Despite limited resources, how will the Diamondbacks improve their chances at the trade deadline?

The Diamondbacks are contending for a Wild Card.

If the season ended today, the Diamondbacks would be a Wild Card in the playoffs.

Looking at the other contenders, since the All Star break the Diamondbacks have played very well against them, which is a positive for tiebreakers, if there are ties at the end of the season.

The following table compares the standings of the Diamondbacks and other contenders for the NL Wild Cards.  Also, it shows the games between the Diamondbacks and those teams since the All Star break – the results of games played and the dates of future games. 

In summary, the Diamondbacks are on track and strongly contending.

Acquisitions made impacts.

Instead of looking at every trade and acquisition, the first step was determine the biggest needs/opportunities of each team in the race.  Acquisitions (in July and August) that filled those needs would likely impact the Wild Card race.  The following table shows which needs were addressed (or not).  It excluded players in the minors. A subjective evaluation of the impact on the Wild Card race is shown in the last column.

Pirates.  My view is that the Pirates are doing everything they can to make the playoffs for the first time since 2015.  Camilo Doval (relief pitcher) and Jacob Gonzalez (playing shortstop) will make a positive impact.  Luke Weaver, who was a starting pitcher for the Diamondbacks from 2019 to 2022), was acquired as a relief pitcher with a career best ERA of 1.84. Despite not adding a starting pitcher, my view is they added two wins down the stretch of the Wild Card race.

Phillies. The Phillies made a solid improvement at second base by acquiring Luis Arraez. His batting is much better than Bryson Stott (OPS+ 127 vs 93). His defense at second base is much better (11 OAA vs 6 OAA). In addition, the Phillies acquired relief pitchers Caleb Kilian and Brooks Raley. My view is they added two wins down the stretch in the Wild Card race.

Padres. The Padres acquired twostarting pitchers, Robbie Ray and Casey Mize. Ray pitched for the Diamondbacks for 6 seasons (2015 to 2020). In the next season (2021), he won the Cy Young. And Mize is having a career best season. My view is they added three wins down the stretch in the Wild Card race.

Nationals.  The Nationals added Connelly Early (starting pitcher who should be off the injured list by late August), Tom Cosgrove & Yovanny Cruz (relief pitchers), and some pitching prospects.  In September, their rotation will likely be at its peak.

On the other hand, the Nationals traded away two of their best batters (Curtis Mead with OPS+ of 134, and Luis Garcia Jr. with OPS+ of 137). In addition they traded away Foster Griffin for four pitching prospects. My take is that the overall impact is near zero.

The Diamondbacks. The Diamondbacks need a starting pitcher, a left handed bat (either at first base or the outfield), and a relief pitcher (the recent collapse of Paul Sewald adds an exclamation point).

“There’s been a lot of conversation around a bunch of different stuff.  So we’re mostly in the starting pitching/bat market. Some in the reliever market, just to stay involved in that.” — Mike Hazen

August will be difficult for the Diamondbacks.  In August, they will play two teams contending for a NL Wild Card (Padres and Cubs), plus two first place teams (Dodgers and Braves).  Although every win counts the same, my view is the most important series is with the Padres.  The reason is that winning that 4-game series would make the most impact in keeping the Diamondbacks in a Wild Card position.

“I’m more worried about getting through August than what happens at the end of August and September.  August is going to be particularly challenging for us with no off-days and probably the toughest run of games we’re going to have all year.” —  Mike Hazen

The Diamondbacks added left-handed batter Lars Nootbaar, who plays in the outfield. This season, his batting is much better against right-handed pitchers (.737 OPS vs .483 OPS). He will likely play in left field.

My view is that the Diamondbacks added one win down the stretch in the Wild Card race.

Cardinals. My view is that the Cardinals were the team that did the least to improve their team prior to the trade deadline. My view is that they missed chances to improve their chances of reaching this season’s playoffs.

Summary.

The Diamondbacks are strongly contending for one of the NL Wild Cards. August will be challenging.  Although they met only one of their needs, they improved their chances in the race by acquiring Lars Nootbaar at the trade deadline.

Although they did not acquire a starting pitcher, the Pirates did a lot to meet their needs and make the playoffs for the first time since 2015.

Although they did not acquire a starting pitcher, the Phillies made solid improvement in their team to ensure they retain their position as a Wild Card team.

Starting pitching was the primary need (perhaps the only need) for the Padres. It was impressive that they acquired two starting pitchers. They are strong contenders for the third Wild Card in the NL.

The Nationals addressed their pitching needs by trading away two of their top batters. And they traded away a relief pitcher for four prospects. The net impact may be zero.

Of the contenders for a NL Wild Card, the Cardinals did the least to improve their team prior to the trade deadline.

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Grant Holmes on the hill for the Braves in series opener vs. the Miami Marlins

ATLANTA, GA - JULY 30: Grant Holmes #66 of the Atlanta Braves walks to the mound in the first inning during the game against the Washington Nationals at Truist Park on July 30, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Matthew Grimes Jr./Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Your new and improved* Braves are here. Fifty games left in the 2026 regular season. Let’s get after it.

*your mileage may vary based on your trade deadline opinions.

August started off in sweet and sweep-y fashion – the Washington Nationals entered the series a game over .500 and left two games under. The Braves are now rocking their first five-game win streak since April.

A new NL East challenger arrives at Truist Park, and they’re going to be looking to cause some chaos. The Miami Marlins (58-55) are tied with San Diego to be just two games behind the Philadelphia Phillies AND Arizona Diamondbacks for a Wild Card berth.

It’s up to Grant Holmes to set the tone to start the series off right. We had hoped that by this time, Holmes (6-4, 3.88 ERA) would have made the official transition from the starting rotation to an incredible long-relief option in the bullpen. But this hasn’t come to pass. In July, Holmes completed five innings in 4/5 games started (and went 4.2 innings in the last one). His best by far was versus the Pirates on July 8, where he only allowed three hits and no runs. He’s looking to bounce back from his worst one, which was the most recent: in the 4.2 innings pitched against the Nationals on July 30, he allowed five hits including three (thankfully solo) homers. Grant hasn’t pitched six innings since June 3.

In his last time out facing Miami in mid-April, Holmes was lifted after four innings after a combination of three hits and two walks led to three runs. The Fish with the most at-bats against Holmes are Xavier Edwards (1-for-8) and Kyle Stowers (0-for-6).

The Marlins will counter with the right-hander Ryan Gusto (0-2, 5.31 ERA). Gusto has split time between the starting role and as a reliever, with eight outings as the former and five as the latter. He had started almost exclusively in the month of June before being optioned, and seemingly eased back in in the bullpen after being recalled on July 9. He made his longest start of the year with this final line against Philadelphia on July 29 by going five… but the rest of the final line? 9 H, 6 ER, 1 HR, 2 BB, and 3 K.

Gusto faced the Braves twice last season in August, and was the losing pitcher for both in lopsided 7-1 and 12-1 Braves victories. He was tagged for three and nine earned runs in those, respectively. Ozzie Albies and Michael Harris II are tied with the most at-bats against him six. Ozzie and Matt Olson have homered off him.

First pitch is at 7:15 pm ET.

Game Info

Game Date/Time: Tuesday, August 4, 7:15 p.m. ET

Location: Truist Park, Atlanta, GA

TV: BravesVision, Gray TV

Streaming: MLB.tv

Radio: 680 AM / 93.7 FM The Fan, La Mejor 1600/1460/1130 AM

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Royals Review Reacts Survey – Grade the trade deadline

Carlos Duran stands on the mound
GLENDALE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 13: Carlos Duran #82 of the Los Angeles Dodgers participates in a throwing drill during spring training workouts at Camelback Ranch on February 13, 2026 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Royals fans and fans across the country.

The trade deadline has passed and with it, most any reason to follow the Royals for the remainder of the year. They don’t have any high-level prospects to get excited about seeing, so it’s mostly going to be about trudging through the muck of the final third of the season and hoping to spot some diamonds in the rough.

Before we get there, though, we should take some time to look at how the Royals did at the trade deadline. We’ve got writeups of each of the trades individually, and Matthew Lamar wrote up some individual grades for the trades as well, so give those a look and then come back here and vote for how you think the Royals did overall. Keeping in mind that even if each individual trade looks good, you might still grade them poorly for not making very many of them.

Royals trade Lane Thomas and Bailey Falter to Atlanta
Kris Bubic traded to Dodgers
Royals acquire right-handed reliever Nolan Hoffman
Royals trade deadline grades

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Battle of the Sox Part 2, as Chicago visits Boston after the trade deadline

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 13: Chicago White Sox outfielder Derek Hill (25), center fielder Tristan Peters (29) and right fielder Jarred Kelenic (24) celebrate their victory over the Kansas City Royals as mascot Southpaw runs with the flag after an MLB game on May 13, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Patrick Gorski/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Major League Baseball’s trade deadline came and went with excitement for nearly every team as either a seller or a buyer (maybe not the Reds). There was activity all over the league. And some of it will be relevant in the very first series after the deadline for the Red Sox. However there are a couple weeks remaining before we see a big upgrade at catcher. Adley Rutschman looms.

When the Red Sox were in Chicago a few weeks ago, during the winning streak, they swept the series. Since then Boston has largely continued to win. At home. On the road. Day. Night. East, West, and Central. Boston has passed the AL Central division leaders in wins entering this series at 60-51 vs the White Sox 59-52 record. Who saw that coming a month ago?

Davis Martin faced the Red Sox in June and allowed 5 runs in 4.0 innings. He followed that up with a strong start against the Blue Jays (5.2, 1 run) and struggles against the Astros (5.0, 4 runs) and Yankees (6.0, 4 runs). While the White Sox beat the Yankees, this run was mostly a good start against a weaker Toronto offense and lesser performance against the better offensive teams. Boston waited a season and a half to see Patrick Sandoval and as injuries gutted the rotation depth he’s now a permanent fixture. Sandoval will be facing the White Sox for the second time since coming off the IL. The first was a 4.1-inning surprise where he allowed a single run.

The Red Sox missed Sean Burke on the road and it’s probably good they did. He had an incredible July while allowing just 5 runs total (4 earned) over 31.2 innings. A righty who has held both same-side hitters and lefties to mid-.600 OPS totals, he was far more effective in July than June and has more or less gotten better as the season’s gone along. He’s struck out double digit batters in three of his last five starts and recorded 9 Ks in another. This could be a quiet night for the bats if he’s on his game. Sonny Gray had a rough start against Toronto but bounced back with a solid outing against the A’s. He allowed four runs but also tossed 7.0 innings. He’s been everything the Red Sox wanted this season, especially as he’s had to replace rather than support Garret Crochet. He missed the White Sox on the road trip so this will be a fresh team for him on the season.

The Mariners didn’t exactly sell high on Luis Castillo. This whole year has been a downward slide. Lefties are putting up an OPS of nearly .900 against the righty. The strikeouts are down to their lowest level (7.8/9) and he’s allowing hits at the highest rate of his career (9.7/9). Ranger Suarez is making his third start since landing on the IL. The Sox had him on a short leash against the Blue Jays (4.0 innings) and he stuck around a little longer against the Dodgers (4.2 innings) but had given up four runs. He’s tossed exactly one inning against the White Sox in his career way back in 2019, the 6th inning of a game on August 4th. He didn’t allow a hit and recorded one K. That game was started for the Phillies by Drew Smyly.

Munetaka Murakami is off the IL and up to his old tricks. He’s up to 24 home runs on the season.

Old friend Chase Meidroth continues to have a fine season slashing .273/.348/.391.

Another old friend, Andrew Benintendi, had a .957 OPS in June to get his season on track but a lesser July.

Probable Pitching Matchups

Tuesday, August 4: Davis Martin (3.52 ERA / 3.11 FIP) vs. Patrick Sandoval (3.32 ERA /4.15 FIP)

Wednesday, August 5: Sean Burke (3.04 ERA / 3.29 FIP) vs. Sonny Gray (2.93 ERA / 3.62 FIP)

Thursday, August 6: Luis Castillo (5.06 ERA / 4.57 FIP) vs. Ranger Suarez (3.15 ERA / 2.55 FIP)

When/Where to Watch

Tuesday, August 4: 7:10 PM ET on NESN

Wednesday, August 5: 7:10 PM ET on NESN

Thursday, August 6: 7:10 PM ET on NESN

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Cincinnati Reds begin post-deadline odyssey by hosting the Athletics

CINCINNATI, OHIO - JULY 29: Brady Singer #51 of the Cincinnati Reds pitches during the game against the Cleveland Guardians at Great American Ball Park on July 29, 2026 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Brady Singer is still a part of the Cincinnati Reds rotation, and he won’t have to waste any time in showing himself as a part of this club going forward.

The Reds first game after Monday’s trade deadline will be a home contest against the Athletics, formerly of Oakland, Sacramento, and currently of Las Vegas, and Singer will get the start for the upstart Redlegs. Cincinnati is fresh off taking 3 of 4 against the Pittsburgh Pirates over the weekend, and they’ve won 4 of 5 series out of the gate since the All Star break in early July.

They are still pretty buried in the standings at the moment, sitting in last place in the NL Central and still 6 games back of the final NL Wild Card game (with 6 teams to jump to earn their way in). Still, Nick Krall & Co. thought it fit to hold on to several veterans who are due to reach free agency at season’s end, and that crew will get at leats a moderate opportunity to make a push towards season’s end and see if they can drum up a miracle.

Righty JT Ginn will start for the A’s in Tuesday’s series opener opposite Singer, with first pitch set for 6:40 PM ET. Top Reds prospect Hector Rodriguez was called up earlier on Tuesday to make his MLB debut, taking over the roster spot from the recently traded Nathaniel Lowe.

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Rays Minor League Roundup: Week 17

MONTGOMERY, AL - MARCH 31: Austin Overn #6 of the Montgomery Biscuits poses for a photo during the Montgomery Biscuits photo day at Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 in Montgomery, Alabama. (Photo by Ethan Lowe/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

This was the 15th week of full minor league play (stats are entering play on Tuesday, August 4th).

According to FanGraphs (which factors in age and proximity to the big leagues), prospect Theo Gillen has usurped Caden Bodine to reign supreme in the system, although both prospects are among the top overall in all of minor league baseball; Gillen ranks 4th while Bodine ranks 16.

Meanwhile, Jacob Kisting was included in the deal to land Liam Hicks from the Miami Marlins, so a new pitcher must be crowned as the top hurler in the system. Basically by default, that goes back to Aidan Cremarosa, who is currently on the IL; Cremarosa ranks 590th among all minor leagues this year.

RUMBLINGS

  • It’s promotion day!
    • Dominic Fritton, Brendan Summerhill, and Ryan Cermak are up to High-A
    • Justyn-Henry Malloy and Kody Whitley have been activated from their rehab assignments
  • Jack Suwisnki will join Triple-A Durham, he was hitting .291/.386/.562 with 21 HR while in Triple-A for the Dodgers
  • Austin Overn was left off of Baseball America’s Hot Sheet, but he enjoyed quite the weekend as he launched 4 HR and stole 3 bases, hitting .400/.478/1.100 over 23 PA

TEAM LEADERS

  • Must currently be assigned to that team
  • Baseball America’s top ten prospects are featured below each team they’re currently assigned to.
  • (minimum of 180 TBF & PA)

Tampa Bay Rays

Top 10 Prospects

  • None currently on active roster

Durham Bulls

Team Offensive Leaders:
AVG: .260, Blake Sabol
OBP: .336, Logan Davidson
SLG: .420, Blake Sabol
HR: 11, Carson Williams
wRC+: 94, Blake Sabol
SB: 27, Homer Bush Jr

Team Pitching Leaders:
ERA: 2.64, Evan Reifert
FIP: 3.78, Ty Johnson
K%: 32.5% Ty Johnson
BB%: 8.8%, Chase Solesky
WHIP: 1.07, Ty Johnson
AVG: .185, Evan Reifert
WHIFF%: 14.9%, Ty Johnson

Top 10 Prospects

  • #3 Brody Hopkins
    • AAA: 4.93 ERA | 4.86 FIP | 27.1 K% | 21.2 BB% | .195 AVG | 12.0 WHIFF% | 84 IP

Montgomery Biscuits

Team Offensive Leaders:
AVG: .311, Austin Overn
OBP: .394, Austin Overn & Xavier Isaac
SLG: .570, Austin Overn
HR: 20, Will Simpson
wRC+: 151, Austin Overn
SB: 48, Austin Overn

Team Pitching Leaders:
ERA: 3.59, Chris Clark
FIP: 4.49, Chris Clark
K%: 28.4%, Jackson Baumeister
BB%:  2.8%, Santiago Suarez
WHIP 1.09, Chris Clark
AVG: .209, Jackson Baumeister
WHIFF%: 14.9%, Jackson Baumeister

Top 10 Prospects

  • #1 Theo Gillen
    • AA: .287/.398/.537 | 18.0 K% | 14.8 BB% | 6 HR | 8 SB | 145 wRC+ | 128 PA
    • A+: .342/.449/.589 | 23.8 K% | 14.3 BB% | 12 HR | 28 SB | 165 wRC+ | 265 PA
      • 6/23: Promoted to Double-A
  • #5 Caden Bodine
    • AA: .292/.377/.371 | 5.7 K% | 11.3 BB% | 1 HR | 2 SB | 106 wRC+ | 106 PA
    • A+: .341/.411/.477 | 6.6 K% | 7.3 BB% | 4 HR | 3 SB | 132 wRC+ | 151 PA
    • A: .379/.433/.614 | 3.9 K% | 9.2 BB% | 5 HR | 1 SB | 176 wRC+ | 152 PA
      • 6/30: Promoted to Double-A
      • 5/19: Promoted to High-A
  • #10 Santiago Suarez
    • AA: 5.13 ERA | 5.20 FIP | 20.7 K% | 2.8 BB% | .253 AVG | 11.6 WHIFF% | 86 IP

Bowling Green Hot Rods

Team Offensive Leaders:
AVG: .298, Connor Hujsak
OBP: .435, Ryan McCoy
SLG: .590, Connor Hujsak
HR: 25, Connor Hujsak
wRC+: 157, Ryan McCoy
SB: 42, Tony Santa Maria

Team Pitching Leaders:
ERA: 3.83, Noah Beal
FIP: 3.62, Noah Beal
K%: 27.8%, Jack Kartsonas
BB%: 5.4%, Jack Kartsonas
WHIP: 1.33, Jack Kartsonas
AVG: .239, Jack Kartsonas
WHIFF%: 18.2%, Noah Beal

Top 10 Prospects

  • #4 Nathan Flewelling
    • A+: .251/.381/.468 | 26.6 K% | 15.9 BB% | 18 HR | 7 SB | 120 wRC+ | 402 PA
  • #9 Anderson Brito
    • A+: 3.34 ERA | 4.50 FIP | 28.8 K% | 14.4 BB% | .240 AVG | 13.4 WHIFF% | 32.1 IP
      • 5/23: Placed on 7-day Injured List

Charleston River Dogs

Team Offensive Leaders:
AVG: .354, Brady Marget
OBP: .457, Brady Marget
SLG: .513, Brady Marget
HR: 9, Cooper Flemming
wRC+: 164, Brady Marget
SB: 32, Alberth Palma

Team Pitching Leaders:
ERA: 2.68, Aidan Cremarosa
FIP: 2.67, Aidan Cremarosa
K%: 32.1%, Aidan Cremarosa
BB%: 4.6%, Aidan Cremarosa
WHIP: 0.79, Aidan Cremarosa
AVG: .170, Aidan Cremarosa
WHIFF%: 16.7%, Aidan Cremarosa

Top 10 Prospects

  • #6 Cooper Flemming
    • A: .297/.390/.453 | 16.0 K% | 11.5 BB% | 9 HR | 13 SB | 131 wRC+ | 401 PA
  • #7 Taitn Gray
    • A: .269/.385/.443 | 23.9 K% | 15.1 BB% | 6 HR | 4 SB | 126 wRC+ | 205 PA
    • CPX: .333/.400/.611 | 20.0 K% | 5.0 BB% | 1 HR | 0 SB | 140 wRC+ | 20 PA
      • 6/1: Placed on the 7-day IL
      • 7/14: Began rehab assignment
  • #9 Daniel Pierce
    • A: .252/.336/.390 | 28.6 K% | 7.9 BB% | 4 HR | 6 SB | 101 wRC+ | 140 PA
      • 4/22: Placed on the 7-day IL
      • 5/2: Activated from the IL
      • Hasn’t played since May 30th. Underwent shoulder surgery. Likely out for the year
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Warriors legends get into vicious social media beef over Kevin Durant comments

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Klay Thompson fired back after Kevin Durant diminished his Warriors résumé, prompting Draymond Green to enter the spat with a burner-account jab, Image 2 shows Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors reacts after a foul call in the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers

Kevin Durant’s latest attempt to praise the Philadelphia 76ers has reopened some old Golden State Warriors wounds.

Durant argued on social media that Philadelphia’s new core of LeBron James, Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown and Tyrese Maxey compares favorably with the Warriors team he joined in 2016. When a fan claimed the 76ers were not close to that historically dominant group, Durant pushed back by listing their individual accolades.

In making his case, however, Durant singled out former teammate Klay Thompson.

Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson, from left, guard Stephen Curry and forward Kevin Durant celebrate after Game 5 of the NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Oakland, Calif., on Wednesday, June 14, 2017. Thompson has provided a steadying hand for the reigning champions as they work to find their groove again after winning their second trophy in three years. (Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) AP

“Klay Thompson, never a MVP candidate in nothing, 22ppg,” Durant wrote, while contrasting Thompson’s résumé with Embiid’s MVP, Brown’s Finals MVP and Maxey’s recent All-Star selections.

Thompson, typically one of the NBA’s more laid-back personalities, took exception to being dragged into the debate. The former Warriors guard shared Durant’s comment on his Instagram Story and tagged him directly.

“Aye man u good?” Thompson wrote. “What u using my full government for??”

Draymond Green then entered the exchange with a shot referencing Durant’s history of using anonymous social-media accounts.

“Slim thought he was on his burner?” Green wrote on Threads.

The jab recalled Durant’s infamous 2017 mistake, when he defended himself in the third person from his verified account after apparently forgetting to switch profiles. It also carried added bite because of Green and Durant’s turbulent history, including their heated 2018 argument that contributed to tension during Durant’s final Warriors season.

Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors reacts after a foul call in the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 4 of the 2017 NBA Finals on Friday, June 9, 2017, at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. (2017 Getty Images) Getty Images

Durant’s broader comparison is not entirely without merit. Philadelphia can field four players capable of producing at an All-Star level, including an MVP center and one of basketball’s greatest players.

The Warriors, however, had already won a championship and recorded 73 regular-season victories before Durant arrived. That group paired established chemistry with Stephen Curry’s shooting, Thompson’s two-way play and Green’s versatility before adding another MVP.

The new 76ers may possess comparable individual credentials on paper, but they have yet to play a game together. Durant’s argument will ultimately be decided on the court.

For now, it has only succeeded in uniting Thompson and Green against their former teammate.

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Chicago Bulls legend Stacey King’s cause of death revealed

Chicago Bulls legend Stacey King’s cause of death has been determined.

A spokesperson for the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office told the California Post on Monday that the three-time NBA champion died from hypertensive cardiovascular disease — an issue caused by long-term high blood pressure.

Obesity was a contributing factor and the manner was natural, the rep added.

Stacey King #34 of the Chicago Bulls runs on the court during a game in the 1991 Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Philadelphia 76ers circa May, 1991 at the Spectrum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Bruce Bennett Studios via Getty Images

King, who turned into a beloved Bulls broadcaster following his NBA career, died on June 7 at his home in River Forest, Ill., and in announcing his passing, Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf called him “a cherished member of the Bulls family and one of the truly unique personalities in our organization’s history.”

Stacy King of the Chicago Bulls receives his championship ring from NBA Commissioner David Stern before a game against the Miami Heat on Nov. 6, 1993, at Chicago Stadium in Chicago. (NBAE) NBAE via Getty Images

“We will miss him deeply,” Reinsdorf said, “and remember the joy, energy, humor, candor, and passion he brought to our organization, our broadcasts, and our fans every day.”

King joined the Bulls in 1989 after he was selected with the sixth overall pick in the draft.

Playing alongside Michael Jordan, the 6-foot-11, 230-pound power forward won rings in three of his first four seasons as a Bull.

Stacey King, Jesser, and Adam Amin commentate during the game between the Milwaukee Bucks and Chicago Bulls on March 1, 2026, at United Center in Chicago, Illinois. (NBAE) NBAE via Getty Images

King’s time as a player in Chicago ended in 1994 when he was traded to the Timberwolves in a deal that included Luc Longley. He went on to play in the league until 1997, logging minutes for the Heat, Mavericks and Celtics.

Stacey King receives his commemorative plaque during the celebration of the Chicago Bulls 20th anniversary of their first NBA Championship during a special halftime program on Saturday, March 12, 2011, at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. (NBAE) NBAE via Getty Images

In retirement, he stepped into the Bulls’ broadcast booth, and quickly became a fan favorite, coining phrases like “gimme the hot sauce!” and “sriracha!”

“Stacey loved being a Bull,” Jerry Reinsdorf’s son, Michael, said in a statement at the time of his passing. “You could feel it in everything he did — the way he played, the way he called games and the way he connected with our fans.

“He had a unique gift for bringing people together and making every game feel personal. He brought an energy and love for the game that came through in every broadcast, helping fans feel connected to our team. Whether it was through a broadcast, a conversation or a photo with a fan, Stacey made people feel seen and valued.”

King was 59 years old.

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MLB Predictions and Moneyline Picks for Tuesday, August 4

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Fresh off buying at the trade deadline and riding a hot streak, the San Diego Padres headline my MLB moneyline predictions for tonight's slate. 

Let's dive right into my latest MLB picks for Tuesday, Aug. 4.

MLB moneyline picks for August 4

MatchupPick
AngelsAngels
vs
OriolesOrioles		Orioles
-138
MetsMets
vs
GuardiansGuardians		Guardians
-141
AthleticsAthletics
vs
RedsReds		Reds
-125
NationalsNationals
vs
PhilliesPhillies		Nationals
+251
CardinalsCardinals
vs
YankeesYankees		Cardinals
+178
White SoxWhite Sox
vs
Red SoxRed Sox		White Sox
+125
MarlinsMarlins
vs
BravesBraves		Marlins
+133
TwinsTwins
vs
RoyalsRoyals		Royals
+135
PiratesPirates
vs
BrewersBrewers		Brewers
-141
DodgersDodgers
vs
CubsCubs		Cubs
+190
GiantsGiants
vs
RangersRangers		Giants
+178
Blue JaysBlue Jays
vs
AstrosAstros		Astros
-122
RaysRays
vs
RockiesRockies		Rockies
+156
PadresPadres
vs
DiamondbacksDiamondbacks		Padres
+108
TigersTigers
vs
MarinersMariners		Tigers
+114

Prices courtesy of Polymarket as of 8-4.

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Expert MLB moneyline picks for August 4

Angels vs Orioles: Orioles (-138)

Orioles win probability: 58%

The Birds draw Grayson Rodriguez, who has been flat-out horrendous on the mound this season. The Angels right-hander owns an 8.18 ERA, 1.77 WHIP, while allowing a 47.6% hard hit rate and 11% barrel rate.

The Orioles have cooled off a bit, but Rodriguez is the type of pitcher who can get this lineup rolling again. Expect Baltimore's bats to take advantage.

Mets vs Guardians: Guardians (-141)

Guardians win probability: 58%

I already love Jo Adell in this spot against Mets left-hander Sean Manaea if he's in the lineup tonight. Regardless, I'll gladly back Cleveland here.

Manaea has been brutal on the road this season, posting a 5.31 ERA and 1.32 WHIP. On the other side, Joey Cantillo has been solid, and his underlying metrics suggest there's even more room for improvement. Over his last five appearances, he owns a 2.45 expected ERA.

Both offenses have been ice cold, so I'll ride with the better arm.

Athletics vs Reds: Reds (-125)

Reds win probability: 56%

The Athletics' offense has been abysmal for weeks now, and despite what we thought we knew about Brady Singer, the guy has been nails.

Over the Reds right-hander's last five starts, he's posted a 2.37 ERA and 1.12 WHIP.

Cincinnati's offense has also picked things up, recording a 110 wRC+, .337 wOBA, and .751 OPS over its last six games.

Pay the juice. Trust the Reds.

Nationals vs Phillies: Nationals (+251)

Nationals win probability: 28%

Yeah, Zack Littell has been pretty bad this year, and Jesus Luzardo has been nails. However, the Nationals still have a very lethal offense. 

+251 is insane. Take the Nats.

Cardinals vs Yankees: Cardinals (+178)

Cardinals win probability: 36%

I'm starting to think the Yankees' name is the only reason they are constantly favored while sporting a 68 wRC+ over their last 12 games.

Ryan Weathers gets the ball for New York tonight, and he's actually been worse at home than on the road, posting a 4.50 ERA and 1.33 WHIP.

On the other side, Hunter Dobbins' underlying metrics over his last five starts point toward positive regression.

I like the Cardinals to replicate last night's success.

White Sox vs Red Sox: White Sox (+125)

White Sox win probability: 45%

With the Red Sox coming off a sweep of the Los Angeles Dodgers this past week, I expect a bit of a letdown here.

They'll either keep the momentum rolling or come back down to earth, and I'm leaning toward the latter. That was an emotional statement series for Boston, and I think the Chicago White Sox have a chance to catch them at the right time.

Give me the White Sox to sneak out a win tonight.

Marlins vs Braves: Marlins (+133)

Marlins win probability: 43%

This feels like a game that could see 20+ runs with Ryan Gusto and Grant Holmes taking the mound. Both guys have been struggling on the rubber lately.

With this matchup feeling more like a coin flip, I'll gladly take the underdog.

Miami's offense has started to heat back up, and even without Liam Hicks, this lineup is dangerous enough to pull off the upset.

Twins vs Royals: Royals (+135)

Royals win probability: 42%

With Joe Ryan posting a 9.82 ERA, 4.88 xERA, and 1.73 WHIP over his last three starts, I'm riding with Kansas City. 

Randy Dobnak has been serviceable over his last five outings, and with both offenses running cold, I'll side with the hotter arm.

Pirates vs Brewers: Brewers (-141)

Brewers win probability: 58%

I doubt I've written one of these articles where I've faded the Brewers. It's hard to do when they consistently get great pitching, and their offense is always clicking.

The same can't be said for the Pirates, who own a 75 wRC+, .273 wOBA, and .603 OPS over their last 12 games.

Logan Henderson has been nails for Milwaukee, and I expect that to continue tonight. 

Dodgers vs Cubs: Cubs (+190)

Cubs win probability: 34%

Yes, I am dead serious. Take the Cubs.

What team has the biggest target on its back tonight? The Dodgers. Sure, they always do, but with this being Tarik Skubal's debut in Los Angeles, the Cubs will come out with a little extra edge.

Everyone is going to want to spoil the party, and I expect Chicago to claw its way to a win.

Giants vs Rangers: Giants (+178)

Giants win probability: 36%

San Francisco has been on a tear lately, and this price is simply wrong.

The Giants have sported a 113 wRC+ over their last six games, while the Rangers have managed just a 62. On the mound, left-hander MacKenzie Gore has struggled over his last five outings, posting a 6.41 ERA. Meanwhile, Blade Tidwell has looked much better over his last three starts.

There's a ton of value in backing the Giants here.

Blue Jays vs Astros: Astros (-122)

Astros win probability: 55%

I'm not even going to entertain backing an offense that owns an 89 wRC+, .297 wOBA, and .664 OPS over its last 12 games.

I don't care who's pitching for the Astros. I refuse to back one of the most lifeless lineups in baseball, especially with how red hot Houston's bats have been.

Give me the Astros.

Rays vs Rockies: Rockies (+156)

Rockies win probability: 39%

I have to be on the Rockies after the Rays hung two touchdowns on them last night. Expecting a team to replicate that kind of offensive explosion on back-to-back nights is asking a lot.

Add in the fact that this is Freddy Peralta's debut for the Rays, and the Rockies are catching Tampa Bay at the right time.

Give me Colorado to get its revenge at home tonight.

Padres vs Diamondbacks: Padres (+108)

Padres win probability: 48%

The Diamondbacks have cooled off over their last six games after being one of the hottest teams in baseball for the past few weeks.

Now they draw a red-hot Padres offense that's posted a 124 wRC+, .767 OPS, and .345 wOBA over its last six games. Getting San Diego as an underdog feels like the right side.

Randy Vasquez also has solid underlying metrics pointing toward positive regression. Pair that with the hotter bats, and I'll gladly back the Padres tonight. 

Tigers vs Mariners: Tigers (+113)

Tigers win probability: 47%

The Tigers' offense is on fire right now, posting a 170 wRC+, .413 wOBA, and .967 OPS over its last six games.

On the other side, the Mariners are finally starting to wake up offensively, but Detroit should come out on top in this matchup.

Emerson Hancock has been allowing plenty of hard contact, while Troy Melton has posted a sub-1.00 ERA over his last five starts.

I love the Tigers as a road dog. 

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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Tarik Skubal looking to fit in as he prepares for his first start with the Dodgers

CHICAGO — Tarik Skubal wants to be “a chameleon in a sense” with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Blending in normally is quite difficult for a player with two Cy Young Awards, but Los Angeles isn’t exactly a normal team.

Skubal is learning his way around the loaded Dodgers after he was acquired in a blockbuster trade with Detroit. The left-hander will make his first start for the two-time defending World Series champions on Tuesday night against the Chicago Cubs.

“The entire focus of this organization is on winning championships, and that’s my entire focus of playing baseball,” Skubal said, “so we’re very much aligned and I’m ready to go out there and compete and give this organization and city everything that I’ve got.”

Skubal joins a rotation that also includes All-Stars Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Justin Wrobleski, to go along with Roki Sasaki and Eric Lauer. Shohei Ohtani is slated to play catch as he continues his recovery from left knee soreness and a right biceps injury. Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow also are working their way back from injuries.

Los Angeles acquired Kris Bubic in a trade with Kansas City in the runup to the deadline, but the lefty is on the 60-day injured list with shoulder and elbow issues.

Emmet Sheehan was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City before the Dodgers’ 10-5 loss to the Cubs. The 26-year-old right-hander was 1-7 with a 5.98 ERA in his last 10 starts.

“I think for everyone, I think it’s the right thing to do,” manager Dave Roberts said. “It’s going to give him a chance to reset.”

Los Angeles also placed catcher Dalton Rushing on the 10-day injured list with right elbow inflammation. Catcher Chuckie Robinson and right-hander Jonathan Hernández were brought up from the minors, and right-hander Wyatt Mills was designated for assignment.

“Dalton said that he’s had bouts of this in the past,” Roberts said. “So I guess it’s a good thing that he has kind of dealt with it. But I don’t think anyone knows how long it’s going to be.”

Los Angeles reacquired catchers Ben Rortvedt and Hunter Feduccia in separate trades, and Roberts said Rortvedt is expected to join the team Tuesday. The Dodgers have dropped four in a row, matching their season high.

With top catcher Will Smith also on the IL with a neck issue, depth behind the plate is a potential concern for the NL West leaders. But they sure look as if they are primed to make a run at another championship, especially with Skubal in the fold.

“It’s always nice writing a starting pitcher in your lineup like that,” a smiling Roberts said.

The 29-year-old Skubal pitched 6 2/3 innings of three-run ball against Baltimore in his final start for Detroit. The Tigers blew a 7-0 lead on their way to a 10-9 loss to the Orioles in 12 innings.

The acquisition of Skubal reinforces the Dodgers’ status as the majors’ most imposing franchise and public enemy No. 1 for fans of other teams.

“Every team could trade for me, you know. Every team could make that acquisition,” Skubal said, “and I don’t really sympathize with people that blame the Dodgers for anything they’ve done. They’ve developed a really good organization. They draft well, they acquire talent really well, retain talent. It’s a winning organization.”

Skubal is 7-5 with a 2.79 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 96 2/3 innings this year. He also has performed well in the postseason, going 2-1 with a 2.04 ERA in six playoff starts over the past two years.

Skubal is eligible for free agency after this season, and the trade gives the Dodgers an opportunity to begin making their case for a long-term deal. But he stayed away from any free agency talk, keeping the focus on helping his new team right now.

“I’m not going to sit here and say I’m the big piece,” he said. “They’ve been a pretty good baseball team without me. So I’m just going to try and show up and kind of be a chameleon in a sense and fit right into these guys and just, you know, gel with them. They’ve got the winning recipe. They understand what it takes to win.”

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Former Sabres Still Unsigned Free Agents – Logan Stanley

As the National Hockey League enters the second month of free agency, a number of former Buffalo Sabres still remain unsigned. At this point of the offseason, players who have not latched on with an NHL club might consider playing in Europe, or taking a short-term deal or professional tryout to earn a one-year deal. 

One of the most surprising players to still be on the market is big blueliner Logan Stanley. The former Winnipeg first rounder played nearly six seasons with the Jets before being traded at the deadline along with Luke Schenn to the Sabres for Isak Rosen, Jacob Bryson, and two draft picks. With Buffalo, the 6’7”, 231 lb. defenseman played mostly in a third pairing role and posted five assists in 17 regular season games, and eight of Buffalo’s 13 playoff games. 

Other Sabres Stories

Sabres Emotionally Devastated By Game 7 Overtime Loss

Will the Sabres add more scoring help before training camp?

There had been speculation that coming off a career-high 26 points last season, and with a very thin crop of free agents on the market, that the 28-year-old was in a prime position to get overpaid and get some term on a deal. Veterans like Jacob Trouba got that kind of offer, but Stanley, with some glaring holes in his game, is still out there.

Outlook: With it being the first week of August, most of the money out there has already been spent. It is likely that Stanley is looking for a one-year deal in a good landing spot, where he can get plenty of ice time, have a good season and hit the open market again next July. 

Follow Michael on X, Instagram @MikeInBuffalo

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Astros Announce Minor League Player/Pitcher of the Month for July

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR - APRIL 22: Bryce Mayer #6 of the Corpus Christi Hooks pitches during the game between the Corpus Christi Hooks and the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 in North Little Rock, Arkansas. (Photo by Braeden Botts/Minor League Baseball via Getty Images)

The Houston Astros player development department has named IF Waner Luciano the Astros Player of the Month for July and RHP Bryce Mayer the Astros Pitcher of the Month for July.

Luciano, 21, batted .316 (24×76) with 15 runs, seven doubles, four home runs, 20 RBI, 21 walks, nine stolen bases and a 1.021 OPS in 22 games in July with Single A Fayetteville. For the minor league season, Luciano is batting .275 (46×167) with 27 runs, 12 doubles, seven home runs, 38 RBI, 34 walks, 15 stolen bases and an .873 OPS. Luciano was signed by the Astros as a non-drafted free agent on January 15, 2022, from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Mayer, 24, went 2-0 with a 0.47 ERA (1ER/19IP) in July with Double A Corpus Christi. He also recorded 29 strikeouts, six walks, a 0.79 WHIP and a .143 opponent batting average in four appearances, including three starts during the month. For the minor league season, Mayer has recorded a 2.61 ERA (20ER/69IP) with 100 strikeouts, a 1.13 WHIP and a .184 opponent batting average. He ranks tied for sixth in strikeouts in the Texas League this season. Mayer was drafted by the Astros in the 16th round of the 2024 MLB Draft from the University of Missouri. According to MLB.com, he’s rated as the Astros number five overall prospect and the top pitching prospect in the Astros system.

April Astros Pitcher of the Month: RHP Brandon McPherson

May Astros Pitcher of the Month: RHP Kellan Oakes

June Astros Pitcher of the Month: RHP Javier Perez

April Astros Player of the Month: C Jason Schiavone

May Astros Player of the Month: C Jason Schiavone

June Astros Player of the Month: OF Drew Brutcher

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Breaking down the Mets’ return for Clay Holmes and Tyrone Taylor

Jefferson Rojas #39 of the Chicago Cubs bats during the seventh inning of a spring training game against the Chicago White Sox at Sloan Park on February 23, 2024 in Mesa, Arizona.

The final move of the Mets’ deadline sell off landed just before 5 PM yesterday, with Clay Holmes and Tyrone Taylor shipped off as a package to the Cubs. In return, the Mets received Jefferson Rojas, an infielder ranked 63rd on MLB pipeline’s latest top 100 and 99th at Baseball America.

Rojas’ overall profile is one of good tools, but not great ones—a bunch of 50s and 55s if you want this in the 20-80 scouting parlance. He’s a good third base defender who can play second, he’s got a good hit tool and a bit of pop, and he’ll steal you some bases. But he’s neither a Gold Glove defender nor a standout hitter nor an exit velocity monster.

How you value this archetype of player is an interesting question, particularly in contrast to players who have obvious standout tools (Emilien Pitre’s hit tool, Sammy Stafura’s power) but also obvious deficiencies (Pitre’s power, Stafura’s hit tool). On the one hand, being average across the board raises your floor, and gaining a half or full grade anywhere makes you a plus regular. On the other hand, going from a 55 tool to a 60 is a lot harder than going from a 40 to a 50; players like Pitre and Stafura typically have an easier path to getting their weaknesses to a “good enough” level than players like Rojas do finding a true strength to hang their hat on.

This is not to say Rojas is a bad prospect—he’s a high floor, likely major league contributor on the infield in the relatively near term. It’s more to point out that a more modern view on prospect value likely rates him somewhat lower than his pipeline ranking might indicate.

As a return for the combination of Clay Holmes and Tyrone Taylor, this is a totally reasonable return. Holmes is a mid-rotation arm coming off injury with a player opt-out, both of which reduce his trade value. Tyrone Taylor, despite his recent home run binge, remains a 4th outfielder, and is nowadays one that you’re less thrilled to see in center field. Taking this deal is a better idea than extending Holmes (look to Sean Manaea for a cautionary tale of how contracts for this type of player work out) and is far more value than the QO pick the Mets might’ve received had they held Holmes and then let him sign elsewhere.

That said, you can’t help but wish the return had been a bit more exciting. Maybe the rumored Arizona package would’ve been flashier, or perhaps the Mets could’ve pulled something similar to what the Cardinals received for Dustin May and JoJo Romero. Chalk it up as another deal that’s probably fine but maybe could’ve been more.

We’ll have full grades for every deadline deal the Mets make once all the moves for the deadline have been made. Check back in for those next week.

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Rating your takes: Which struggling Seattle Mariner is going to bounce back this season? Which ones are cooked?

Jul 8, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh (29) breaks his bat while hitting a bloop single in the first inning against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Last week I posed this question to the FEED amidst another fairly disappointing and frustrating week of Mariners games and now it is time to rate you responses. As usual, I’ll be using my patented and very scientific Mariners Hot Take Ranking System:

Here we go!

Poster Aubrey says: “Lukewarm take: Julio, and it will be soon. Hot take: Alex Hoppe.”

First of all, speaking of Lukes, pour one out for Luke Raley who is apparently done for the season.

Bummer, man. But, Julio bouncing back? I mean, that’s what we all want and it’s what the Mariners need very badly to happen (one of several things), so is that a lukewarm take? Maybe an obvious one, but given how we haven’t seen Julio make a sustained return to his 2022 offensive output, I rank this as a BOSIO. A step above tepid, but not boiling. Now, the Alex Hoppe part, welp, learn to enjoy blue crabs smothered in Old Bay, buddy!

Blog Boss Kate Preusser says: “I believe in Colt Emerson’s ability to adapt and adjust – he’s been thrown to the wolves earlier than anyone wanted but I have a lot of faith in his approach and I think he will get back to it down the stretch here and get close to replacement level, which … is a fine outcome.”

I want to believe in Colt Emerson’s bat, and I think I do long term for sure, but this is a big (and unrealistic) ask for a rookie who just turned 21 last week. The fact that he’s hanging in there at 0.5 bWAR with sterling defense and occasional clutch hits like Sunday’s walkoff is a huge boost for this team. Expecting more than that at this point makes this take a bit spicy, but Kate did say “close to replacement level” which I guess he is slightly above right now, right? Unfortunately for this Mariners team, they may need 1 to 1.5 bWAR out of Colt in order to win the division and make any kind of decent playoff run with how things have been going. So, I’ll give this one an IWAKUMA for dangerous optimism.

Poster Rumdoodle says: “Carlos Vargas is going to be lights out. JP is done done.”

Okay, now we’re getting hot. First of all, nothing I’ve seen from Carlos Vargas and his glorious hair has ever approached anything resembling “lights out.” I will give him credit for that one very clutch save in 2025 down the stretch, but his control of the zone and his pitch location has always been tenuous at best. Suggesting that he’ll come back from a long injury rehab and start striking out the world is, well, I’ll have what Rumdoodle is having. Must be that good shit. And in regards to J.P. Crawford, first of all, how dare you? Second of all, this team needs their veteran hype man to be in the mix for any sort of postseason run. How else will they select a new post-win banger to listen to? So yeah, this take is pretty dang BRASH, almost bordering on CLIFF LEE-ish.

Poster Chris from Bothell says: “Donovan will bounce back and be a force for the rest of the season. Cal will… Well, let’s just say when the Mariners make the playoffs it will be despite him, not because of him.”

Multiple folks picked Brendan Donovan aka Bringo Dingo aka Isabelle would like to see proof of life of this man. So yes, Donovan returning and being able to play nearly every day without getting hurt again would be pretty huge for this lineup. Chris’s take on Cal is, well, depressing but that has been the tone of this nearly lost season for Raleigh. In fairness, his power does seem to be returning in fits and starts, but this team needs more than one dinger a week from this cornerstone of the lineup. Mashing 60 dingers, catching 121 regular season games in 2025, starting every game of a deep playoff run, and then fucking around with whatever the hell happened in the World Baseball Classic…..a catcher’s body can only do so much and he has clearly been pushed (well, pushed himself) past his limits. Cal is as tough as modern baseball players come, but we all have limits as humans. That said, 2-ish weeks of Cal hitting at or around his 2025 clip could literally make the difference between winning the division again or not. I still have hope he can do it. Giving this one the ol’ BRASH since Chris said the Mariners will make the playoffs even without Cal bouncing back.

Okay, moving along to a BONUS PROMPT.

As the resident sartorial shit-giver on the LL staff, I saw this post from the Mariners and immediately started thinking about A) how would I rank these 9 uniforms and B) which uniforms got snubbed? C) justice for for road greys!!!!

So, sound in the comments how you’d rank these 9 Mariners uniforms and give a shoutout to any particular favorites that were left off.

My quick ranking:

  1. Teal. It will always be teal for me. #1 defender of teal. It’s the color that sets the team apart. Every winning Mariners team ever has worn teal.
  2. Yellow S home whites
  3. Sleeveless home whites (criminally underrated, sun’s out, guns out)
  4. Steelheads
  5. Current home whites
  6. 70’s Trident era home whites
  7. Turn Ahead the Clock night
  8. City Connect
  9. Sunday off-whites

NOTABLE SNUBS: 70’s and 80’s powder blue road unis, the current navy road uniforms (arguably their most popular current uniform??), the extremely dark navy blue tops from the early 00’s, the Spring Training and sometimes regular season powder blue tops from 2019-2022, and yes, THE ROAD GREYS from both the yellow S era (completely forgotten heaters) and the modern road greys which got unceremoniously axed in 2023.

All right, thanks for everyone who responded to the prompt in the FEED and let’s hear some Mariners uniform takes in the comments!