KANSAS CITY, MO - MARCH 28: A general view of opening day signage in the outfield during the game between the Minnesota Twins and the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on Thursday, March 28, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Kyle Rivas/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Opening Day is a time for hope. Anything can happen, even a team everyone predicted would finish in the cellar going on a run and sitting in first place most of the year! That’s what happened in 2003, when Runelevys Hernandez tossed a gem on Opening Day, beating the White Sox 3-0. That was the first of nine wins in a row to start the season, as the Royals shocked the baseball world and contended for the division title most of the season.
That hope carried over into the next season, although the team would fall far short of expectations. But the 2004 Royals at least gave us a memorable Opening Day. The Royals trailed 7-3 going into the ninth against the White Sox, but managed to rally. Light-hitting Mendy Lopez smacked a two-run home run to tie the game. Two batters later, Carlos Beltran sent everyone home with a walk-off home run for a 9-7 victory. That team only won 58 games all year, but that one was the most memorable.
What was your favorite Opening Day or home opener? Do you make it a tradition to attend the game? Watch from work? Watch with friends?
The 2026 MLB season is barely underway, but two newcomers are already turning into daily home run machines, while the weather in Wrigley is a great place to look for dingers. The MLB player props markets are slow to adjust.
While bettors are still getting last week’s prices, these three bats are getting premium matchups in hitter-friendly spots tonight. It’s a perfect storm for value, and their home run odds won’t stay this generous for long.
These are my best home run props for Monday, March 30.
UPDATE: Added another HR pick + parlay.
Best MLB home run props today
Player to hit a HR
Odds
Munetaka Murakami
+480
Kazuma Okamoto
+500
Pete Crow-Armstrong
+310
💲Today's HR parlay
+12355
Munetaka Murakami (+480)
The Chicago White Sox might be headed for another dreadful season, but newcomer Munetaka Murakami is the sunshine on the Southside. The Japanese left-hander has gone deep in every game this year, and although there is some swing-and-miss potential, that works well for home run props as it's all or nothing with the rookie, with all three hits leaving the yard.
He has also moved from the sixth spot in the lineup to the second, so five plate appearances are very possible if Chicago can turn things over. He's going from an indoor setting to another controlled environment in Miami, and only four other pitchers in baseball last year gave up more home runs than Miami's Chris Paddack.
Fair price on the projection for our MLB picks is +360.
Time: 6:40 p.m. ET
Where to watch: CHSN, MIAM
Kazuma Okamoto (+520)
Targeting Colorado Rockies starter Tomoyuki Sugano is a clear angle here. He allowed the fourth-most home runs last season and ranked in the Bottom 6% of the league in strikeout rate and Barrel% — a bad combo for limiting damage. He doesn’t miss bats, and there’s a real downside in a hitter-friendly matchup.
He now faces the Toronto Blue Jays, who just hit three homers on Sunday and have already seen Sugano multiple times, dating back to his stint with the Orioles last year — a quiet edge in familiarity.
The best +EV look is Kazuma Okamoto HR (+520), with the market as short as +425. He hit out of the five-hole yesterday and already cashed a HR ticket in a tougher matchup.
No starter projects for more earned runs on the slate than Sugano. Early in the season, pricing on NPB-to-MLB bats can lag — and this is exactly the kind of spot bettors can exploit before markets fully adjust.
Time: 7:07 p.m. ET
Where to watch: COLR, Sportsnet
Pete Crow-Armstrong (+310)
The wind is a major factor at Wrigley Field today, with Kevin Roth’s OVERcast projecting a 62% boost to home runs compared to a neutral park. Winds are blowing 17 mph out to left-center, creating one of the best power environments on the slate.
The Chicago Cubs draw a great matchup against Ryan Johnson, who struggles badly vs. left-handed bats. After just 12 minor-league games, he was rushed to the majors and allowed four HRs in 14+ innings, including three to lefties in just 25 plate appearances (.455 AVG).
Pete Crow-Armstrong will have the best chance for the Cubs to take advantage of this.
With the total already touching 10 in most markets, this shapes up as one of the top home run spots on Monday’s board.
Time: 7:40 p.m. ET
Where to watch: Marquee Sports Network, FanDuel Sports Network West
Today’s HR parlay
Munetaka Murakami
Bet Now +12355
Kazuma Okamoto
Pete Crow-Armstrong
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.
VOORHEES, N.J. — A contingent of fans and television cameras lined up along the glass Monday morning at Flyers Training Center.
This was not your typical skate for a handful of Flyers on an off day for the team.
The force behind the crowd: Porter Martone.
Just two days after his freshman season at Michigan State ended with a loss in the regional final of the NCAA Tournament, the 19-year-old was on the ice with some of his new Flyers teammates.
A look at Porter Martone, the sixth overall pick in 2025 who signed his ELC with Flyers. pic.twitter.com/GcouhbZmyo
“Ever since you were a kid, this is the dream,” Martone said Monday. “It’s kind of surreal that it’s here.”
The Flyers’ top prospect signed his entry-level contract Sunday afternoon, officially turning pro and joining the big club for its final two-plus weeks of the season. The night before, Martone and the Spartans were upset in overtime, 4-3, by Wisconsin.
“I felt like we really created a brotherhood there at Michigan State, I love that place so much,” Martone said. “But then when I woke up in the morning, you get thinking of what’s the next step. To have the opportunity to come here with the Flyers and help them in a playoff push I think was a no-brainer for me. I’m really excited to be here.”
Martone, sporting No. 94 on his helmet, went through his on-ice workout with Tyson Foerster, Garrett Wilson, Noah Juulsen and a fill-in goalie. Martone departed before the rest of the players, perhaps a sign that his NHL debut is coming Tuesday when the Flyers visit the Capitals (7 p.m. ET/NBCSP). But that is not a definite, at least not yet publicly.
“We’re not closing down the window for Tuesday, assuming that everything goes according to plan,” general manager Danny Briere said Sunday. “There’s paperwork to be done, there’s a doctor’s appointment to be done, as well. We’re hopeful that Tuesday could be a game, but we’ll see. I don’t want to get too far ahead of myself.”
Martone, the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NHL draft, had a standout season at Michigan State. The 6-foot-3 winger put up 50 points (25 goals, 25 assists) in 35 games. He had no points in just six of those 35 games. He finished with 15 multi-point games, 124 shots and a plus-24 rating.
“It was a good stepping stone for him,” Briere said. “We feel he has developed nicely both physically and mentally and is close to almost being ready to be in the NHL. We’ll see in the next few weeks.”
A reason why Martone left junior hockey to play collegiately was the opportunity to gain strength and face older competition. He had high praise for the Spartans’ staff and head coach Adam Nightingale. Martone said his InBody scans this season showed he went from around 198 pounds to 210 and he lost three percent body fat.
“I think I just really found my identity as a player and who I need to be to be successful,” Martone said. “Coach Nightingale really forced on me to play below the hash marks, play in front of the net. Another thing that he told me when I got there, and it was the truth, was that if I want to play at the NHL level, I’m going to have to play at a faster pace, I’m going to have to get faster. That was something that I really worked on there.”
The Flyers had Martone and 2025 second-rounder Shane Vansaghi to watch at Michigan State. The club was in consistent contact with the prospects, from director of player development Riley Armstrong to special advisors John LeClair and Patrick Sharp and player development coach Chris Stewart.
“The Flyers were great with me when I was there,” Martone said. “The whole development staff, I think they made probably 10 different trips to see me and Shane play there. I did video with Riley Armstrong every single week, just kind of what they wanted to see, what they wanted me to improve on. I think both sides, the Michigan State Spartans and Philly, did a great job for my development.”
Porter Martone skating here in Voorhees, New Jersey. We’ll see if his NHL debut comes Tuesday or later this week. pic.twitter.com/CjOQRW2LN6
Martone joins a Flyers team that is fueling a playoff push with some of its best hockey. The Flyers entered Monday just two points back of both third place in the Metropolitan Division and the Eastern Conference’s second wild-card spot. They’ve gone 12-3-1 over their last 16 games and have nine games to go.
“Other than on TV, I’ve never really seen him play, but there’s a lot of hype around him, it’s exciting to have him around,” Sean Couturier said Sunday. “To have a young, talented guy like that that’s going to help us in the future and can help us right now is huge.”
The Flyers on Monday started to get Martone up to speed. He knows his transition to the highest level will require work.
“I’m going to have to keep an open mind and continue to learn every single day,” Martone said. “I’m coming into a room full of NHL players, NHL coaches, so I don’t think it’s just going to happen overnight. I think I’m going to have to learn and I think that this group is going to be perfect for me to kind of teach me the ropes.”
The Flyers will need more answers down the middle of the ice. Time will tell if some of their prospects turn into difference-makers or if Briere finds it necessary to get creative for addressing the center position.
But the GM sounded intrigued by his team’s outlook up front. Just on the wing, the Flyers have Martone, Foerster, Matvei Michkov, Denver Barkey, Alex Bump and Nikita Grebenkin all under the age of 25.
“You look at the development of Barkey and Bump lately — being honest, we didn’t think they’d give us as much as they’ve given us lately, so that’s encouraging,” Briere said. “Martone in the future. Tyson Foerster we’ve barely seen this year, another big piece of the future, on top of the guys that are already playing. There’s no doubt that our group of forwards is an exciting one.
“We’ll tinker and try to fill out all positions. Almost all the teams in the NHL, everybody has holes somewhere that they’d like to improve. We know what ours are and we’ll try to tinker with that along the way.”
GUWAHATI, India (AP) — Young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed a 15-ball half-century as Rajasthan Royals thrashed Chennai Super Kings by eight wickets in the Indian Premier League on Monday.
On a pitch which was under covers for most of the last two days due to wet weather, Chennai was put in and crumbled to 127 all out in 19.4 overs. All six Rajasthan bowlers shared the wickets.
The 15-year-old Sooryavanshi was dropped on the first ball he faced then powered the chase with 52 off 17 balls — raising the third fastest fifty in the IPL — as Rajasthan cruised to 128-2 in only 12.1 overs.
Five-time champion Chennai has undergone a youth movement in order to make a long-term rebound from finishing in last place last year. But it made an inauspicious start thanks to the youngest player in the league.
Sooryavanshi's miscued pull shot against Matt Henry in the first over was dropped by debutant Kartik Sharma, a tough two-handed catch over his shoulders while running backward from midwicket. Sharma failed to chase the ball and it dribbled over the boundary, the first of Sooryavanshi's four boundaries plus five sixes.
Sooryavanshi gave Rajasthan a blazing start of 74-0 in the powerplay. He clobbered wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad for successive sixes and raised his half-century off just 15 balls before he holed out to Sarfaraz Khan at sweeper cover in the seventh over.
Fellow opener Yashasvi Jaiswal had a front row seat to Sooryavanshi's artistry. He was dropped on 26 before finishing 38 not out off 36 balls.
“The plan was to decide the game in the powerplay as we’d restricted them to a low score," Sooryavanshi said. “After every ball Jaiswal doesn't tell me to take a single. He tells me that the ball's going off the bat nicely and to keep going.”
New Rajasthan skipper Riyan Parag’s decision to bowl first in favorable conditions was vindicated when Chennai slumped to 38-4 against the express pace of Jofra Archer (2-19) and Nandre Burger (2-26).
Former Rajasthan skipper Sanju Samson (6) had a forgetful first game for his new franchise Chennai when Burger flattened his off stump with a 140 kph delivery.
Samson was hired to fix the top order batting issues for Chennai but captain Ruturaj Gaikwad also made only 6 when he exposed his stumps against Archer’s pace and was clean bowled.
Left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja (2-18), playing for Rajasthan after 17 seasons with Chennai, struck twice in his first over to reduce Chennai further to 57-6.
With Mahendra Singh Dhoni not available for the first two weeks due to a calf injury, Chennai was in danger of opening its campaign with less than 100 runs. But Jamie Overton top-scored with 43 off 36 balls before he was run out in the last over.
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - MARCH 26: Josh Naylor #12 of the Seattle Mariners is introduced during opening day against the Cleveland Guardians at T-Mobile Park on March 26, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Fresh off the heels of a big Opening Day weekend, the Mariners and KING 5 made a significant announcement this morning. Friend of the blog Joe Veyera had speculated on this two days ago after coming across a peculiar TV scheduling on April 10:
And it all became official this morning:
This is a pretty excellent step by the Mariners in terms of both growing the local fanbase and making games more easily accessible for all fans. With the Torrent, Kraken, and Storm all regularly airing games on free over-the-air channels like KONG and FOX 13+, it’s high time the Mariners got in on that action. Seahawks games have obviously been free to watch locally for decades because football is king and there are only 16 games, not 162. Many things about football make its fandom a lower bar to clear, but MLB teams being squirreled away on regional sports networks has long been an unnecessarily high barrier for local fans. Comcast cable is ludicrously expensive. The new Mariners-only local streaming options for subscribers have been incredible the last few seasons, but not everyone has $100 to drop to access it, or the $20 monthly fee. While it’s only 10 games, being able to go home, press one or two buttons and have the Mariners game pop on? Phenomenal. The way it should be and the way….it used to be before streaming on myriad different platforms took over.
I digress. This is great news in general for Mariners fans. Can anyone tell me what season was the last time the Mariners had regular season home games on free over-the-air cable? I’m trying to figure it out and haven’t gotten a good answer yet. Sound off in the comments!
After getting knocked around Saturday to the tune of a 10-2 loss, the 2026 Nats showed a level of resilience hardly ever shown by the 2025 club, taking command early thanks to a 3-run shot by Joey Wiemer to defeat the Cubs 6-3 and win their first opening series since 2018. The story of the weekend was the aforementioned Wiemer, who had yet to record an out and is tied for the major league lead in fWAR with 0.6, despite playing just 2 games compared to the other leaders, who have played 4.
The club now heads to Philadelphia, where they’ll take on the currently last-place Philadelphia Phillies (Have to take every opportunity you get to say that). The Phils won on opening day before dropping the final 2 games of their opening series, backed by a strong start by MacKenzie Gore in his Rangers debut yesterday, going 5 1/3 innings and allowing 2 runs. The trio of former Nats at the top of the Phillies lineup were all cold in the first series of the year, with Trea Turner and Kyle Schwarber batting .154, and Bryce Harper batting .091.
Game One – Monday 6:40 PM EST
WSH: LHP Foster Griffin
PHI: RHP Taijuan Walker
Griffin will make his Nationals debut tonight and his first big league appearance since 2022. He showed promise in his 2 Spring Training starts (3 including the exhibition against team Venezuela), posting a 2.53 FIP across 8 innings.
Walker had a solid bounce-back 2025 season for the Phillies after getting roughed up to an ERA over 7 in 2024, posting a 4.08 ERA in 123.2 innings pitched. He’ll make his season debut today against a Nats team he has a 3.56 career ERA against.
Game Two – Tuesday 6:40 PM EST
WSH: TBD
PHI: RHP Andrew Painter
Monday is Littell’s scheduled day in the rotation, but the Nationals have not announced a starter yet. If he is unable to go, the Nats could roll with a variety of options, from a Brad Lord spot start to a bullpen game, to a starter callup from Triple A with a corresponding roster move.
Painter was on the fast track to the big leagues for the Phillies before Tommy John Surgery knocked him out of the 2023 and 2024 season, but after 22 starts in Triple A in 2025 with middling results, the Phillies trust him to be their 5th starter in 2026, at least to begin the year. He will make his big league debut Monday night against the Nats.
Game Three – Wednesday 1:05 PM EST
WSH: RHP Cade Cavalli
PHI: LHP Cristopher Sanchez
Cavalli only went 3 2/3 innings in his start on Opening Day, being limited by some command issues, but the swing and miss stuff looked on point, striking out 5 Cubs batters. He’ll be tested again in his second career start against a strong Phillies lineup, but one he did throw 7 scoreless against last season for his first big league win.
Sanchez dominated against the Rangers on Opening Day, throwing 6 shutout innings with 10 strikeouts. He’ll now face a lefty-heavy Nats lineup that has had success in their 2 games against lefty starters so far in 2026, scoring 16 runs in both games combined.
A Chance To Make A Statement
Taking the opening series on the road against a playoff team from last season was a strong start for Butera and his ballclub, but if they can go into Philadelphia and take a series from their hated division rivals, a team filled with former Nats, it would send a message to the NL East and baseball this Nationals club isn’t a pumching bag for them anymore.
CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 28: Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers talks to the media after the game against the Charlotte Hornets on March 28, 2026 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brock Williams-Smith/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
It’s amazing what can happen in a week, especially for a franchise as strange as your Philadelphia 76ers.
This was the Sixers’ starting lineup last Monday against the Oklahoma City Thunder:
But hey, Saturday’s win over the Hornets was a big one. It felt like a playoff atmosphere and the Sixers dominated in the fourth quarter to pull out the victory. They’re in seventh in the East as of this posting, but with plenty of room for movement at 41-33. They’re a full game back of the fifth-place Toronto Raptors and a half game back of the sixth-place Atlanta Hawks (who swept the Sixers this season). They’re two games up on the Orlando Magic, who sit in eighth (the Sixers own the tiebreaker).
They’ll continue their run of good health when they take on the Miami Heat Monday night. The Heat are coming off an embarrassing loss to the Indiana Pacers Sunday. This is also the season rubber match for these teams after they split the first two matchups. It’s not a must-win by any means, but taking care of business in South Beach would be another meaningful win.
So, what’s on your mind right now? Hit me with your questions and comments below.
Luis Castillo will take the mound in what were friendly confines for him last season as the New York Yankees open a series with the Seattle Mariners. On the other side, Ryan Weathers will make his debut for the Bronx Bombers after being acquired from the Marlins last season. We think this pitch pairing sets up both teams to keep the runs down.
My Yankees vs. Mariners predictions and MLB picks break down why we like a low-scoring affair on Monday, March 30.
Yankees vs Mariners predictions
Yankees vs Mariners best bet: Under 7.5 (-110)
Luis Castillo's home numbers last season were legitimate: a 2.60 ERA and 1.00 WHIP across 100+ innings, with his strikeout rate jumping to 25%. He's in a position to attack a New York Yankees lineup with plenty of swing and miss.
On the other hand, it is difficult to know what to make of Ryan Weathers, but a short outing is a near certainty. That will turn things over to a well-rested New York bullpen that has yet to allow a run this season.
Two quality pitching outings (one by committee) in one of baseball's most suppressive offensive environments.
COVERS INTEL: Luis Castillo's 2.11 ERA home-road differential last season was among the largest of any qualified starter. Quite frankly, he was literally a different pitcher at home than away..
Yankees vs Mariners same-game parlay (SGP)
While the sample is small, it’s pretty easy to say the Yankees haven’t fixed much of the strikeout issues that have plagued them for the (checks notes) at least the last five years.
They are averaging just under 10 over the first three games, but the whiff rate remains in the Top 5 of the league, much like it has over the past few seasons.
With that in mind and the context of Castillo at home, I paired his strikeout number with the best bet for today’s SGP.
Yankees vs Mariners SGP
Under 7.5
Luis Castillo Over 5.5 strikeouts
Yankees vs Mariners home run pick: Randy Arozarena (+475)
Randy Arozarena is in a good spot if he can avoid the whiff (and he’s done a good job of that so far this season). Few players on the Seattle Mariners roster hit the ball harder than him consistently, and his early-season barrel rate reeks of someone due for a bomb.
What’s particularly noteworthy about this matchup is how it lines up with the pitch mix of Weathers. He’s mostly a two-pitch thrower, and Arozarena was in the top three of Mariners players in hard-hit rate last season against the two pitches he’ll see.
2026 Transparency record
Best bets: 1-1, -0.2 units
SGPs: 1-1, +1.05 units
HR picks: -3, -3.0 units
Yankees vs Mariners odds
Moneyline: New York -110 | Seattle -110
Run line: New York +1.5 (-225) | Seattle -1.5 (+195)
Over/Under: Over 7.5 | Under 7.5
Yankees vs Mariners trend
The Yankees have cashed the first-five moneyline in 42 of their last 70 games for +16.15 units and a 14% ROI. Find more MLB betting trends for Yankees vs. Mariners.
How to watch Yankees vs Mariners and game info
Location
T-Mobile Field, Seattle, WA
Date
Monday, March 30, 2026
First pitch
9:40 p.m. ET
TV
YES, SEAM
Yankees starting pitcher
Ryan Weathers (2025: 2-2, 3.99 ERA)
Mariners starting pitcher
Luis Castillo (2025: 11-8, 3.54 ERA)
Yankees vs Mariners latest injuries
Yankees vs Mariners weather
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.
GLENDALE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 24: Manager Stephen Vogt #12 of the Cleveland Guardians talks with Austin Hedges #27 against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the third inning of a spring training game at Camelback Ranch on February 24, 2026 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images) | Getty Images
We have seen the Guardians for four games – what can we say about them?
First, let’s be clear – you can’t say much of any certainty about any baseball team until Memorial Day. And, I was convinced that the Guardians were a bad baseball team last season at the end of August because their offense was so inept… and they won 88 games and their division. So, I am not offering any full assessments on this team. It’s four, cold games across the country. There aren’t a lot of conclusions to be drawn, yet.
With that said, something that really stands out is that the Mariners were not afraid to throw the Guardians four-seam fastballs and that strategy really paid off. The Guardians saw the third most four-seam fastballs of any team in MLB this weekend and they were 23rd in wOBA at .259 and 29th in xwOBA at .234 against those fastballs. Believe me that teams will be happy to challenge Guardians’ hitters (except, perhaps, for Jose Ramirez and Chase DeLauter) with fastballs until they can show they can do significant damage on those pitches. So, time to drink some caffeine and head to the plate looking for heaters you can do some damage on, boys. It’s warm in LA; make it happen.
Meanwhile, Guardians’ pitching is currently 27th in MLB with a 5.40 batters per 9 walk rate. Thankfully, they also came out of the series 5th in MLB with a strikeout rate per 9 of 11.31 batters. Cleveland was giving up a lot of hard contact as seen by them being 20th in xFIP, so it is absolutely imperative that they decrease their walk rate, especially if they cannot find a way to more consistently miss the barrel of the bat. It certainly seemed like the Guardians’ pitchers were not comfortable on the mound and could not consistently execute their pitches. This may be an “it’s early” phenomenon, but I do think the pitching staff’s walk rate will be one of the most important metrics to follow in 2026.
Finally, it’s obvious the team had some issues defensively (mostly in the outfield) and some issues making wise ABS challenges. I hope the team offers some additional restrictions on which batters can challenge and when and where they want those challenges to take place. I think the team will continue to have some hiccups in outfield defense as players like CJ Kayfus and David Fry get used to playing out there. However, it’s important that Stephen Vogt use his bench to get ideal defensive alignments in place later in games if the team manages to get a lead.
Also… go get Travis Bazzana to play second, move Brayan Rocchio to short, and DFA Gabriel Arias already, for gosh sakes!
I am sure a variety of the issues I describe here will improve with a larger sample size to draw from, but, at the least, we have a few areas of concern to monitor in the games ahead. What are your chosen areas of greatest concern for the Guardians as of right now? Tell us in the comments below.
Last summer, the Chicago Blackhawks announced their “Blackhawks Hall of Fame”, a new way of honoring the great people who have come through the organization as players or builders. The first class of inductees was announced as all players whose jerseys have already been retired, plus two players voted on by fans and media.
The vote was conducted to elect a modern alumnus and a heritage alumnus. Duncan Keith and Steve Larmer were selected out of their respective groups. The public ceremony to celebrate all of these players will take place ahead of Chicago’s game on April 11th vs the St. Louis Blues.
On Monday, the Chicago Blackhawks organization made a special announcement regarding this new Hall of Fame. In addition to those that have already committed to inducting, Troy Murray will also be added.
Murray passed away in early March at the age of 63 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. The former player and broadcaster was synonymous with the organization and has been celebrated as the franchise icon he is. This news will take the celebration of his life to another level.
“Troy was a consummate professional, both through his exceptional play and in the way he represented the Blackhawks long after his playing days,” Blackhawks Chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz said. “Known by fans and among his fellow players as an elite, two-way forward, he played the game with toughness and pride, while his contributions off the ice as a Blackhawks broadcaster and ambassador have left a profound and lasting impact on the entire Blackhawks community. Troy’s courage, perseverance, and unwavering fight will be remembered and cherished forever.”
Wirtz’s comments reflect the respect that everyone in the Blackhawks organization had for Murray as a person, player, and broadcaster. A permanent recognition of Murray and all of their Hall of Fame members will be part of Centennial Hall inside Blackhawks Ice Center.
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Two division leaders in the Eastern Conference tip off for the second time in four days when the Atlanta Hawks host the Boston Celtics.
Points might be hard to come by against Boston, but Atlanta forward Jalen Johnson will do his best to get his teammates involved.
I’ll break down my Johnson prop and more in my Celtics vs. Hawks predictions and NBA picks for Monday, March 30.
Celtics vs Hawks prediction
Celtics vs Hawks best bet: Jalen Johnson Over 7.5 assists (-110)
The Atlanta Hawks have been on a heater since the All-Star break, but they face a tall task tonight when they take on the Boston Celtics, who have won three straight and seven of their last eight games — including last Friday’s meeting versus Atlanta.
The C’s are expected to have all three of their top scorers — Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, and Derrick White — in the lineup, so the Hawks will need someone to step up and equalize. Enter Jalen Johnson.
The Hawks forward is a jack of all trades, averaging 22.9 ppg, 10.2 rpg, and 8.1 apg for Atlanta this season, but it’s his playmaking that’s been exceptional down the stretch.
Since the start of March, Johnson is logging 8.8 dimes per contest and has recorded Over 7.5 assists in nine of 12 appearances.
The Celtics, who own the best defense in the NBA, will try their best to shut Johnson down, but his ability to threaten the shot and find the open man is borderline unstoppable.
Atlanta is averaging 91.8 field goal attempts per game this season, the second-most in the NBA, and that high-volume approach will also help Johnson’s chances of picking up Over 7.5 assists.
Celtics vs Hawks same-game parlay
If Johnson’s going to hit his assist numbers, he’ll need someone to dish the rock to, and his best option tonight will be Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
The Hawks guard has been scorching hot this month, shooting 54% from the field and over 47% from long range while averaging 23.1 ppg. Alexander-Walker has scored Over 17.5 points in four straight and 12 of his last 13 games, including 20 points vs. the Celtics last week.
Celtics vs Hawks SGP
Jalen Johnson Over 7.5 assists
Nickeil Alexander-Walker Over 17.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: Double up the J's
Johnson has 13 triple-doubles this season, tied for the second-most in the NBA. The Hawks forward has two in his last seven games while averaging 8.3 rpg and 8.8 apg this month.
Tatum has found his groove since returning to the lineup in early March, logging three double-doubles in his last four outings.
Celtics vs Hawks SGP
Jalen Johnson to record a triple-double
Jayson Tatum to record a double-double
Celtics vs Hawks odds
Spread: Celtics +2 | Hawks -2
Moneyline: Celtics +105 | Hawks -125
Over/Under: Over 222 | Under 222
Celtics vs Hawks betting trend to know
Atlanta is 6-3 ATS in the last nine meetings, and 13-4 ATS in its last 17 overall. Find more NBA betting trends for Celtics vs. Hawks.
How to watch Celtics vs Hawks
Location
State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA
Date
Monday, March 30, 2026
Tip-off
7:30 p.m. ET
TV
NBC Sports Boston, FDSN SE-Atlanta
Celtics vs Hawks 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.
After their shutout win on Opening Day, the Boston Red Sox didn’t give fans much to cheer about in their three-game series against the Cincinnati Reds.
Boston dropped Games 2 and 3 on Saturday and Sunday, falling to 1-2 on the season. Reliever Greg Weissert played a role in both losses, allowing a solo homer in Saturday’s 6-5 defeat and a three-run homer that decided Sunday’s 3-2 loss.
Weissert was far from the only player worthy of blame. Sonny Gray made a costly fielding error in his Sox debut, Jarren Duran was picked off at first in a critical situation, and offseason addition Caleb Durbin went 0-for-12 with three strikeouts, including a brutal K on a 3-0 count in the series finale.
Fortunately for the Red Sox, there are still 159 games left on the schedule. Here are five takeaways from the opening series in Cincinnati as Boston turns its attention to Houston:
1. Situational hitting still an issue
The Red Sox totaled only 10 runs in the three-game series despite having plenty of opportunities to score.
They went 2-for-14 with runners in scoring position in Saturday’s 6-5 loss, then 0-for-7 with RISP on Sunday. They left 30 runners on base in total: 11 in Game 1, 10 in Game 2, and nine in Game 3.
Boston’s lineup against lefties was considered one of its biggest weaknesses heading into the season, and it didn’t do much to dispel that narrative in Cincinnati. It mustered only one extra-base hit and one run in 35 at-bats against southpaws.
The pitching staff mostly held up its end of the bargain in the series, but the Red Sox’ offense couldn’t come through when it mattered most.
2. Wilyer Abreu can hit 30-plus homers
Boston didn’t add a huge power threat to the middle of its lineup during the offseason. That could come back to bite Craig Breslow & Co., but their big bat could come in the form of Wilyer Abreu.
Abreu mashed homers on Saturday and Sunday. He has started the season 6-for-13 with two doubles, two homers, four RBI, and only one strikeout.
Abreu is blossoming into the middle-of-the-order threat the Red Sox desperately need, though he still has to prove he can hit left-handed pitching consistently.
3. Connelly Early should stay in the rotation
Red Sox rookie southpaw Connelly Early looked sharp in his season debut, allowing just one earned run with six strikeouts over 5.1 innings. His spot on the Opening Day roster was a bit of a surprise, but he showed why he belongs on the big-league roster and shouldn’t be sent back down to the minors.
It’ll be interesting to see how Boston approaches its starting rotation going forward. Johan Oviedo appeared to be the frontrunner for a rotation spot after being acquired from Pittsburgh in the offseason, but Early added to his case for a permanent role after impressing during his brief MLB stint last year.
4. Solid start for Marcelo Mayer
Mayer was a question mark entering the season due to his injury history and inconsistency at the plate. So far, so good as he went 2-for-2 on Opening Day with a pinch-hit double and two of the club’s three runs. He hit another double in Game 2 and looked smooth defensively throughout the series.
Mayer’s talent is undeniable, and his performance in the opening series was a reminder of that. He’ll look to keep it going in Houston and earn an opportunity to play more against left-handers, whom he has struggled against throughout his pro career.
5. Too many mental miscues
The Red Sox could have swept the series had it not been for a few mental mistakes, but the fundamentals were an issue just as they were for much of last year.
In Game 2, veteran right-hander Sonny Gray allowed a run to score on a bizarre fielding blunder in which he dropped the ball while attempting to tag the runner at home plate. In the eighth inning of Game 3, Jarren Duran was picked off at first base to spoil a potential rally in the one-run loss.
Mar 28, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) and guard Dylan Harper (2) shake hands during the fourth quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images | Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Welcome to Week in Review: a Monday feature that looks back at the week that was for the San Antonio Spurs, takes a look at the week ahead, and more. Enjoy!
Week 22: The Spurs saw it all in another undefeated week, from tight wins against potential first-round opponents in the Clippers and Suns, to blowout yawners against two of the worst teams in the league (the Kings and Pacers). The win over the Suns at home was especially notable since it featured Victor Wembanyama’s first ever NBA game-winner as he hit a jumper with under a second left to officially secure the Spurs’ first playoff berth since 2019.
After talking the talk, especially with regards to defense, Bam Adebayo and Co. couldn’t walk the walk against the surging Spurs. While still at least play-in bound, the slumping Heat stuck to their physical, transition/pace-dictated style of play and were able to hang around for a quarter, but it didn’t take long for the Spurs to insert their will and turn what could have been a fun game into another laugher on national TV streaming. The Heat had no answer for Wemby on either side of the ball and couldn’t hit enough jumpers to keep up with the Spurs’ red-hot shooting against their zone defense. (The win also secured the Spurs’ first Southwest Division title since 2017 and 23rd overall, not that it matters since it has zero impact on seeding these days.)
The Spurs seem officially done taking inferior teams lightly, as the blew out a short-handed Grizzlies squad that has always found ways to be a thorn in their side over the years. The Spurs got a little complacent on offense in the second quarter after dominating the first, but they got the memo after halftime and ended things with a 41-20 third quarter in a game that will mostly be remembered for a massive amount of posterization dunks.
Usually this is an exciting matchup between Wemby and Giannis Antetokounmpo, but with the latter (plus many other main rotation Bucks) out and the former not having his finest game on offense, there wasn’t much excitement in this one. Instead, the Spurs rode their depth and another triple-double from Stephon Castle to methodically put away another shorthanded team, although to the remaining Bucks’ credit, they played a physical game and made the Spurs work for it. The win technically gave the Spurs their third winning streak of eight games or longer this season (reminder: the Cup Finals loss doesn’t count). It also made them the first team in NBA history with win four road games in a row by 25+ or more points, going back to their win in Sacramento.
With the league’s longest active winning streak (eight games), the Spurs are keeping the pressure on the Thunder, who they trail by just two games in the loss column.
Three takeaways
1. Victor Wembanyama had three steals and seven blocks (in less than 27 minutes) in the Spurs’ win in Memphis on Wednesday, giving him 11 games of at least 10 steals + blocks over his three seasons in the league. The rest of the league has just five such games over those three years, with no other player having more than one. 2. Wembanyama being healthier this season is one reason why the Spurs have been the league’s most improved defensive team by a wide margin, allowing 6.2 fewer points per 100 possessions than in 2024-25. However, he’s still only played about 200 more minutes (1,725) than he did in 2024-25 (1,527), and the Spurs have been much better defensively in both his minutes on the floor (102.9 vs. 110.0 allowed per 100) versus his minutes off the floor (113.8 vs. 118.2 allowed per 100). 3. The Spurs are the only team that ranks in the top five in both opponent field goal percentage in the paint (54.4%, fourth) and opponent free throw rate (23.0 attempts per 100 shots from the field, first). Their win on Saturday was the first time in more than five years that a team (the Bucks) attempted fewer than 25 shots in the paint (they were 14-for-24) and fewer than 10 free throws (5-for-6).
Coming up: With the Spurs set to finish first or second in the West, a first-round series with the eighth-place Clippers is a distinct possibility. The Spurs have won both of the first two meetings (both in March) by exactly four points, and the final meeting will be in LA on Thursday, the second half of the Spurs’ final back-to-back.
Center Victor Wembanyama already made his case for MVP, and presumably Defensive Player of the Year and supreme alien leader. But he did not advocate for the Power Rankings Frontier Award. That is going to Champagnie this season, who went from undrafted in 2022 and waived by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2023 to a fixture in San Antonio’s starting lineup since the turn of the new year. Champagnie has been durable and consistent, playing in every Spurs game this season and hitting 38.3 percent of his 3s. Along the way, the Spurs have continued to steamroll the league, winning 24 of 26 games since the beginning of February.
The Spurs have moved back into the top spot of the NBA power rankings with two weeks remaining in the season by picking up three wins with a point differential of +82. There is no word to describe the Spurs right now other than dominant.
This team only has two losses since the start of February, and San Antonio’s third-ranked defense continues to improve. Three road games in four days against Golden State, LA, and Denver will be a small test for this group, but their hopes of catching the Thunder and claiming the 1-seed are still very much alive.
Coming up: Mon. 3/30 vs. Chicago Bulls (29-45); Wed. 4/1 at Golden State Warriors (36-39); Thurs. 4/2 at Los Angeles Clippers (39-36); Sat. 4/4 at Denver Nuggets (48-28)
Prediction: 4-0 — 3-1 would be a much safer prediction here (and it might have been 2-2 if this were January), but the Spurs have been on such a roll lately that I can’t bring myself to doubt them. They should at least start 2-0 against a shorthanded Bulls team at home and a Warriors squad on the road that reportedly still won’t have Steph Curry back, but then things get tougher. The Spurs continue their final road trip of the regular season with their third and final match-up against another potential first round opponent that should have Kawhi Leonard again, followed by a trip to Denver, who are starting to find their groove and will be fighting for seeding. This game should also feature the first Wemby-Joker match-up of the season.
The New York Mets will hit the road for the first time this season as they visit the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday night.
St. Louis is looking to build for the future rather than win now, and my Mets vs. Cardinals predictions expect the Redbirds to be outmatched tonight.
Let’s take a closer look at this game with my free MLB picks for Monday, March 30.
Mets vs Cardinals predictions
Mets vs Cardinals best bet: Mets -1.5 (+114)
The St. Louis Cardinals are one of the few teams pretty much admitting they’re rebuilding in 2026, with a roster designed more to develop talent than win games.
While St. Louis won two of three against the Rays to open the season, expectations remain low.
The top of the New York Mets lineup should find success against righty Kyle Leahy, with Juan Sotoboasting a career .999 OPS against right-handed pitching.
Add in the fact that Clay Holmes should give New York the pitching edge, and I like the Mets to cover the run line at plus-money.
COVERS INTEL: Clay Holmes has traditionally gotten off to fast starts to the season, going 6-2 with a 2.57 ERA and 1.140 WHIP in March and April for his career.
Mets vs Cardinals same-game parlay (SGP)
Along with taking the Mets to win tonight, I’m going to take two of their stars to make an impact on the offensive end.
Soto has already shown what he can do in the early going, hitting .357 with three RBI in New York’s opening three-game series against the Pirates.
On the other hand, Bo Bichette has struggled in his Mets debut, going just 1-for-14 so far with eight strikeouts. There’s little doubt he’ll turn things around, however, and I’m betting on the former Blue Jays star to pick up 2+ combined hits, runs, and RBI tonight.
Mets vs Cardinals SGP
Mets -1.5
Juan Soto Over 0.5 RBI
Bo Bichette Over 1.5 hits + runs + RBI
Mets vs Cardinals home run pick: Jorge Polanco (+600)
Jorge Polanco is only 1-for-10 to start the season, but he did flash his power during spring training, hitting two homers in 29 at-bats. And while Polanco has never been an elite slugger, he was consistent in Minnesota and Seattle over the past five years, homering at least 14 times each season and hitting 26 dingers in 2025.
Most of all, I’m backing Polanco because of the generous odds here.
2026 Transparency record
Best bets: 2-1, +0.82 units
SGPs: 1-2, +1.03 units
HR picks: 0-3, -3.00 units
Mets vs Cardinals odds
Moneyline: New York -148 | St. Louis +126
Run line: New York -1.5 | St. Louis +1.5
Over/Under: Over 8.5 | Under 8.5
Mets vs Cardinals trend
The Mets went 2-0 against the Cardinals with Holmes on the mound in 2025, covering the run line both times. Find more MLB betting trends for Mets vs. Cardinals.
How to watch Mets vs Cardinals and game info
Location
Busch Stadium, St. Louis, MO
Date
Monday, March 30, 2026
First pitch
7:45 p.m. ET
TV
SNY, CARD
Mets starting pitcher
Clay Holmes (2025: 12-8, 3.53 ERA)
Cardinals starting pitcher
Kyle Leahy (2025: 4-2, 3.07 ERA)
Mets vs Cardinals latest injuries
Mets vs Cardinals weather
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.
Guerrero has a .571 OBP and hasn't struck out once to start the season, but is still looking for his first extra-base hit of the year.
Today's matchup against Sugano offers an opportunity to correct that in a big way.
Sugano is a contact pitcher who is often hit hard. Guerrero nearly led the majors in xBA last season with a hard-hit rate in the 90th percentile.
That is a dangerous combination for a Rockies hurler who lives in the zone, misses zero bats, and never entices anyone to chase.
COVERS INTEL: Sugano is a strike thrower who pitches to contact, ranking in the fourth percentile in barrel rates and third in xBA and xERA in his first season in the majors.
Rockies vs Blue Jays same-game parlay (SGP)
100ish words about the SGP analysis. The best bet DOES NOT need to be in the SGP.
Rockies vs Blue Jays SGP
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Over 1.5 total bases
Tomoyuki Sugano Over 2.5 runs
Blue Jays -1.5
Rockies vs Blue Jays home run pick: Addison Barger (+425)
Sugano was prone to giving up hard contact last season, which resulted in 33 home runs allowed. Give me one of the Jays’ hardest hitters in the lineup, Addison Barger, to go yard today. The Jays slugger was 1-for-2 against Sugano last season with a homer, and hit 20 of his 21 long balls vs. right-handed pitchers.
2026 Transparency record
Best bets: 1-1, +0.2 units
SGPs: 1-1, +3.25 units
HR picks: 1-1, +2.05 units
Rockies vs Blue Jays odds
Moneyline: Colorado +230 | Toronto -290
Run line: Colorado +2.5 (-135) | Toronto -2.5 (+115)
Over/Under: Over 8.5 (-105) | Under 8.5 (-115)
Rockies vs Blue Jays trend
The Toronto Blue Jays have covered the 1st Five Innings (F5) Run Line in 16 of their last 21 games (+11.05 Units / 46% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Rockies vs. Blue Jays.
How to watch Rockies vs Blue Jays and game info
Location
Rogers Centre, Toronto, ON
Date
Monday, March 30, 2026
First pitch
7:07 p.m. ET
TV
COLR, Sportsnet
Rockies starting pitcher
Tomoyuki Sugano (2025: 10-10, 4.64 ERA)
Blue Jays starting pitcher
Cody Ponce (2025: 17-1, 1.89 ERA - KBO stats)
Rockies vs Blue Jays latest injuries
Rockies vs Blue Jays weather
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.
Munetaka Murakami 
Kazuma Okamoto
Pete Crow-Armstrong
COVERS INTEL: Luis 
