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Lakers need LeBron James to outduel Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Lakers vs. Rockets Game 5 prediction, Image 2 shows Oklahoma City Thunder player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander looking forward during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Image 3 shows Basketball players LeBron James and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the court

OKLAHOMA CITY — In the modern NBA, spectators put star players’ legacies on the line during the playoffs with every dribble they take.

And within a playoff series, there’s a natural comparison between star players. 

The Lakers-Thunder second-round matchup features two of the biggest names in the league despite Luka Doncic (left hamstring strain) still being sidelined entering Tuesday’s Game 1 at Paycom Center. 

The battle between LeBron James and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will go a long way towards deciding who advances to the Western Conference finals between the Lakers and Thunder. NBAE via Getty Images

On the Lakers’ side, you have LeBron James, the 41-year-old, four-time league MVP who continues to redefine what the latter stages of a player’s NBA career can look like.

And on the Thunder’s side, you have the reigning and likely-to-be-two-time MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who led the defending NBA champions to a league-best 64-win regular season.

With Doncic sidelined, series like Lakers-Thunder could be saddled with the “passing of the torch” narrative.
But that isn’t the case at all: Gilgeous-Alexander firmly has “the torch” in a way James hasn’t in a while. 

Gilgeous-Alexander claimed “the torch” when he led the Thunder to a franchise-best 68-win season in 2024-25 before receiving his first league MVP. 

He became the 11th player in league history and, ironically, the first since James, to win the regular season and Finals MVP in the same season (which James did in back-to-back-years in 2012-13). 

With respect to Nikola Jokic, Gilgeous-Alexander is the best player in the league, with the opportunity to make even more history this postseason.

There’s no debating that Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the best player in the world, and he has a chance to further his legacy against LeBron James and the Lakers. NBAE via Getty Images

In an era defined by parity, Gilgeous-Alexander is looking to lead the Thunder past the Lakers and back to the Western Conference finals, which could make them the first defending champions to qualify for that round since the 2018-19 Warriors. 

And if Gilgeous-Alexander leads the Thunder to becoming the first team since the 2018 Warriors to win back-to-back titles while winning regular season and Finals MVP again? He’d join James (2012-13) and Michael Jordan (1991-92) as the only players in league history to do so (it’s important to note that the Finals MVP was created in 1969, which was the final season of Bill Russell’s career). 

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He could join James, Jordan, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal and Hakeem Olajuwon as the only players to win Finals MVP in back-to-back seasons.

What’s at stake for Gilgeous-Alexander is far greater than what’s at stake for James: Gilgeous-Alexander, who turns 28 in July, is in the midst of his prime. He could be putting together one of the greatest stretches by a player in consecutive seasons in league history. There should be a lot more chapters to write about his story. 

James was the best player in the world for a decade, and now Gilgeous-Alexander has taken his crown. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

On the other hand, James’ legacy is solidified. 

Four NBA titles, and four Finals MVPs. Four regular-season MVPs. A league-record 22-time All-Star and 21-time All-NBA honoree. The league’s record holder for most points and minutes played.

But in a career that’s unprecedented, James can accomplish something that’s even rarer for a star: Snatch “the torch” back during the latter stage of his career, even for a moment, by outplaying the league’s best player in a playoff series victory.

Usually when the window for a star to be the leading man on a title-contending team closes, it remains shut. James wasn’t the best player during the regular season, with Doncic and Reaves leading the way. 

But he was during the first-round series against the Rockets with Doncic sidelined and Reaves out for four of the six games. And he still will be for the start of the series against the Thunder.

The closest comparison to what James can do is what Kareem Abdul-Jabbar did in 1985, when he became the oldest player in league history to win Finals MVP (38). The Lakers beat the defending champion Celtics, who were led by the then back-to-back MVP Larry Bird. 

The stakes were obviously much higher because it was a Finals matchup between iconic rivals. 

But the situations were also much different. 

Abdul-Jabbar was just five years removed from winning his last MVP award in 1980, and only a year removed from receiving All-NBA first team honors, which he did again in 1986 for the final time. 

Widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, LeBron James has a chance to prove he’s still among the best in today’s game despite being 41 years old. NBAE via Getty Images

It’s been 13 years since James last won an MVP, and six years since he last received All-NBA first team honors. 

Abdul-Jabbar was teammates with Magic Johnson, who finished ahead of him in the 1984-85 regular season MVP voting, in the midst of his prime.

With Doncic out, James’ best teammate is Reaves, who’s coming off an injury-riddled All-Star-caliber season, with the best teammates after Reaves not being comparable to the “Showtime” Lakers roster. 

The Thunder should win this series.

The challenge in front of James is one that hasn’t been done before.

Which would make it all the more impressive if he’s able to pull off another rare feat against the league’s best.

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Pistons vs Cavaliers Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

Mar 3, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) defends Detroit Pistons forward Tobias Harris (12) in the third quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images | David Richard-Imagn Images

There are so many intriguing matchups and lineup decisions we are going to see as the Detroit Pistons face off with the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. I’m not sure which is my favorite, or which one is the most important. Jarett Allen vs. Jalen Duren? We are all curious what kind of Duren we will get after his offensive no-show against the Orlando Magic. Allen, meanwhile, was the hero of Game 7 for the Cavs, but the Toronto Raptors don’t have the size Detroit can throw at him. Perhaps it is Ausar Thompson vs. James Harden (or maybe Donovant Mitchell). We know Ausar can guard anyone in the NBA, but can he stay out of foul trouble when Cleveland’s stars are forcing the issue? Conversely, what about Duncan Robinson, who I am sure Cavs’ players will be hungry to switch onto and try to hunt on defense.

Will we have some different unsung heroes for Detroit? Is this a series where Ron Holland can make a mark? How much bigger of a role will Isaiah Stewart have against Cleveland’s double-big lineup. Cleveland’s guards can’t contain Cade Cunningham, but Kenny Atkinson surely knows that as well, and is likely fully prepared to throw Dean Wade and a bunch of other looks at him. How will Cade respond? Just about everything intrigues me about this matchup, and I hope the game lives up to how interesting the unknowns are. I’ve had my fill of gross-looking slugfests, thank you.

Game Vitals

When: 7 p.m. ET
Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan
Watch: Peacock, NBC
Odds: Pistons -3.5

Projected Lineups

Detroit Pistons (0-0)

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Cleveland Cavaliers (0-0)

James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Dean Wade, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen

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Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire: Logan Henderson, Gabriel Moreno and Jared Jones

FANTASY BASEBALL WAIVER WIRE PICKUPS

Logan Henderson (SP Brewers) - Rostered in 24 percent of Yahoo leagues

Due to another round of elbow inflammation, which was the same thing that ended his 2025 season, Henderson didn't get the chance to make the Brewers out of spring training. He did make a two-inning spot start the second week of the season, but he was otherwise limited to three-inning outings in Triple-A his first few times out. The Brewers finally let him go five innings in his final appearance for Nashville last week, and after getting the call to replace Brandon Woodruff in the Milwaukee's rotation, he fanned eight in six innings of two-run ball against the Nationals on Sunday.

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Not blessed with overwhelming stuff, Henderson succeeds by hitting his spots with his 91-95 mph fastball and finishing batters off with an excellent changeup. He's also throwing his high-80s cutter more frequently this year. He'll probably settle in as a No. 3 starter if he can stay healthy, but he should be one with a strong enough strikeout rate and WHIP to be of quite a bit of use in mixed leagues.

Health is a big question mark with Henderson at this point. He's topped out at 103 innings as a pro, but the back-to-back elbow issues are worrisome. Still, we're talking about a free player, not a long-term investment. As long as Henderson is in the Brewers rotation, he needs to be rostered in all leagues.

Gabriel Moreno (C Diamondbacks) - Rostered in 10 percent of Yahoo leagues

Moreno's progression at age 25 in 2025 made him look like he was on his way to being one of the league's best catchers in terms of hitting for average and getting on base. This year, though, he seems to want to be more of a power hitter. The bat speed is up, and so are the strikeouts. It hasn't paid off yet with him having one homer through 15 games, but there's hope; he's sporting a career-high pull rate and already has five barrels. That 13.2% barrel percentage is more than twice his career rate.

Moreno's big problem is that he can't stop getting hurt. He's already served an IL stint this year with a mild oblique strain. He was limited to 83 games last year by a fractured finger. Two years ago, he served IL stints due to a sprained thumb and a strained groin. He opened this season batting cleanup for the Diamondbacks, which seemed like a great opportunity given the success enjoyed by Geraldo Perdomo, Ketel Marte and Corbin Carroll as the team's top three hitters last year. Of course, none are hitting quite as well as hoped at the moment, and since returning from the oblique injury without the benefit of a rehab assignment, Moreno has been dropped in the order. So, it might still be a little while before Moreno really takes off. However, there's definite top 10-catcher ability here, even if he goes back to hitting more like he did last year.

Jared Jones (SP Pirates) - Rostered in 32 percent of Yahoo leagues

It's been a long time coming, but Jones finally returned to the mound in a game setting last week, striking out five in three perfect innings for Single-A Bradenton. He topped out at 101 mph in his first game action since last March. He was diagnosed with a UCL sprain in the middle of spring training, and after a setback when he tried to resume throwing in May, he had internal brace surgery. Now he's making his way back, perhaps with better stuff than ever.

Jones, the 44th overall pick in the 2020 draft, debuted with the Pirates at the start of 2024 and opened his career with a 2.63 ERA and a brilliant 52/5 K/BB in 41 innings over his first seven starts. He wasn't quite as stellar the rest of the way, especially after missing seven weeks with a lat strain, but he demonstrated ace-type talent with his elite fastball and slider and the improvement in his control.

The Pirates are definitely in a better spot now than when Jones previously pitched for the team, boasting an actual functioning offense that currently rates sixth in the league in runs per game. The club will be careful with him, but he should be efficient enough to put together a fair number of six-inning starts while keeping his pitch count down. Based on the way he threw last week, he's not going to last in free agent pools until the Pirates activate him at the end of the month.

Waiver Wire Quick Hits

- Caleb Killian was featured here a few weeks ago, and he's interesting again now with the Giants seemingly unsatisfied with Ryan Walker in the ninth. I worry that Keaton Winn will also be a big part of the saves mix if Walker is bumped back to middle relief, but I think Killian is the slightly more interesting of the two, what with his 28% strikeout rate to open the year.

- I'd love to recommend the Tigers' Brant Hurter with Tarik Skubal sidelined, if only the Tigers would promise to keep using him like they did on Sunday Night Baseball. He threw 3 1/3 scoreless innings after entering during the third and picked up a win over the Rangers. Maybe it will happen, but probably not as much during the team's current stretch, which features off days Thursday and next Monday.

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How is San Francisco Giants' season going? Bottom of the power rankings.

As the San Francisco Giants are looking to string together a run of victories, they have been ranked near the bottom of nearly every MLB power ranking to start the 2026 season.

With a 3-2 victory over the San Diego Padres on Monday, May 4, the Giants won their third in the previous 10 games to improve to 14-21 on the season.

It's hasn't been an ideal start for the Giants' first-year skipper Tony Vitello. Vitello made MLB history when he was hired as manager by San Francisco with no prior coaching experience in the majors. He had been a standout, national championship-winning collegiate baseball coach at Tennessee.

However, through 35 games, the Giants have not looked like a team that could sneak into the wild card. It's too early to count them out, but after a month of baseball it's evident that something has got to give.

After a month of games, USA TODAY Sports gave the Giants a generous D+ grade for their performance. ESPN, meanwhile, gave San Francisco a D-. There's been times when you see the vision, but too many times when they can't get hits, can't get runs and can't close games. Here's where the Giants rank in experts' MLB power rankings:

GRADES: How has first-year skipper Tony Vitello done in first month?

Giants MLB power rankings

Here's where sports experts are ranking the Giants through the first month of baseball.

USA TODAY Sports: 28th out of 30

Gabe Lacques writes: "Willy Adames in your garden-variety 5-for-55 hole, though he did break a 54-at-bat streak without an extra-base hit."

The Athletic: 30th out of 30

Zack Meisel writes: "(Landen) Roupp was solid in 106 innings last year, but his performance through April suggested a breakout season could be unfolding before our eyes (at least, before his dud on Saturday. Pay no attention to that). He logged a 2.55 ERA in his first six starts, averaged more than a strikeout per inning and surrendered only one home run. He limited opponents to a .149/.248/.207 slash line, which means he essentially made every hitter resemble a pitcher trying to bat, and, well, they don’t do that anymore. That’s what the universal DH is for."

MLB.com: 28th out of 30

Will Leitch writes: "Whatever your thoughts about manager Tony Vitello and some of the changes the Giants made this season, it is incredibly difficult to get much traction when you can’t hit. The Giants have scored the fewest runs in baseball and have been shut out seven times, two more than any other MLB team. This is not the division in which you can get away with that."

CBS Sports: 28th out of 30

Matt Snyder writes: "Last week, I noted that the Giants finally showed a pulse. Well, we've now lost that pulse. They've lost six in a row."

Bleacher Report: 28th out of 30

Kerry Miller writes: "'Twas a brutal East Coast road trip for the Giants, whose well-compensated bats continue to be M.I.A. They averaged 1.5 runs per game and didn't hit a single home run while getting swept by both the Phillies and Rays, losing three of those six games in walk-off fashion. Rafael Devers, Matt Chapman and Willy Adames went a combined 9-for-66 (.136 AVG) with two runs and two RBI. Change needs to start there."

NBC Sports: 30th out of 30

D.J. short writes: "The Giants have been swept by the Phillies and the Rays over the past week and have scored the fewest runs of any team in baseball. They’ve scored 12 fewer runs than the next-closest team, the Mets. The Giants are calling up prospects Bryce Eldridge and Jesus Rodriguez in hopes of giving a jolt to their beleaguered offense."

ESPN: 23rd out of 30 (as of Apr. 30

Alden Gonzalez writes: "There was a lot of consternation about the Giants, their offense and rookie manager Tony Vitello early on, when the first 11 games resulted in eight losses and few runs. Since then they've been, well, fine, suffering a four-game losing streak but also two separate three-game winning streaks. Logan Webb has been just OK in his starts, Rafael Devers has yet to get going offensively and Patrick Bailey, their brilliant defensive catcher, has been one of baseball's worst hitters. Assuming those things correct themselves -- and Harrison Bader gets back to who he's supposed to be when he returns off the IL -- perhaps Vitello's Giants will contend."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: San Francisco Giants nearing bottom of sports experts' power rankings

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New York Yankees vs. Texas Rangers: Elmer Rodríguez vs. Jacob deGrom

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - APRIL 29: Elmer Rodriguez #71 of the New York Yankees walks to the dugout during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on April 29, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Didn’t we just do this? There’s a big feeling of deja vu in the air in The Bronx tonight, as the Yankees take on the Rangers for the second time in the last week after taking two out of three at Globe Life Field in Arlington last week.

That will give rookie starter Elmer Rodríguez a chance at redemption after taking the loss in his major league debut on April 29 against the Rangers, allowing two runs in four innings. There are clear areas he’ll be looking to improve in his debut in pinstripes today, especially in the walk department. For a guy who was generally billed as having solid command in the minor leagues, Rodríguez struggled to throw strikes amidst the nerves of his big league debut and will look to give himself a better chance of succeeding today by doing so. With Carlos Rodón on the cusp of returning, this might be his last shot to prove himself for a while.

But while he faced a good pitcher in Nathan Eovaldi last time, it’s nothing compared to the wizardry opposing him tonight in two-time Cy Young Jacob deGrom. Through six starts, the former Met has a 2.01 ERA (185 ERA+) and 2.92 FIP in 31.1 innings with 40 strikeouts. His last start? Also against the Yankees, where he allowed one run in six innings but was outdueled by Cam Schlittler.

Ben Rice is still out of the lineup with the hand injury he suffered on Sunday, so Paul Goldschmidt gets another start at first base. Trent Grisham leads off, followed by Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, and Jasson Domínguez. After JC Escarra caught Rodríguez in his first start, he’ll work with Austin Wells today.

Evan Carter’s the new leadoff hitter for Texas as they balance a lineup that now has both Wyatt Lnagford and Josh Smith on the injured list. Corey Seager and Josh Jung follow, with Joc Pederson at DH and cleaning up. Ezequiel Duran, Jake Burger, Alejandro Osuna, Danny Jansen, and veteran outfielder Andrew McCutchen round out the lineup.

How to watch

Location: Yankee Stadium — The Bronx, NY

First pitch: 7:05 pm ET

TV broadcast: YES, Rangers Sports Network

Radio broadcast: WFAN 660/101.9 FM, WADO 1280 (NYY), 105.3 The Fan, KLFC 1270 (TEX)

Online stream: MLB.tv (out-of-market only)

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Astros lose catcher Yainer Diaz 'for a while' because of a left oblique strain

HOUSTON — Houston catcher Yainer Diaz was placed on the 10-day injured list with a left oblique strain Tuesday.

Diaz was injured in batting practice Monday and manager Joe Espada didn’t provide a specific timeline for his injury but said he’d be out for "a while.”

The Astros selected the contract of catcher César Salazar from Triple-A Sugar Land on Monday after Diaz was injured. He’ll serve as the team’s backup until Diaz is healthy with veteran Christian Vázquez stepping in as the starter.

The 27-year-old Diaz is hitting .248 with two home runs and 14 RBIs in 26 games this season.

In other moves on Tuesday, the Astros recalled right-hander Jason Alexander and outfielder Zach Dezenzo from Sugar Land. Infielder Nick Allen was reinstated from the 10-day injured list and right-hander Ryan Weiss was optioned to Sugar Land.

Weiss has struggled this season, going 0-3 with a 7.62 ERA in nine games with two starts. He allowed eight hits and seven runs — six earned — in 4 1/3 innings of an 8-3 loss to the Dodgers on Monday night.

The Astros also designated outfielder Dustin Harris for assignment Tuesday. Harris hit .226 with four RBIs in 11 games after being selected off waivers from the Chicago White Sox on April 18.

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NBA Playoff Tuesday discussion

May 3, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) dribbles defended by Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black (0) in the second half during game seven of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

The Detroit Pistons host the Cleveland Cavaliers at 7 p.m. ET tonight on NBCSN. Then the Oklahoma City Thunder play the Los Angeles Lakers at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBC (WRC-TV).

Enjoy the basketball and the constant playing of John Tesh songs.

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GameThread: Tigers vs. Red Sox, 6:10 p.m.

Detroit Tigers center fielder Matt Vierling (8) runs past third base to score a run against Boston Red Sox from catcher Dillon Dingler’s 2-RBI double during the eighth inning at Comerica Park in Detroit on Monday, May 4, 2026. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Detroit Tigers (18-18) vs. Boston Red Sox (14-21)

Time/Place: 6:40 p.m., Comerica Park
SB Nation Site: Over the Monster
Media: Detroit SportsNet, MLB.TV, Tigers Radio Network
Pitching Matchup: LHP Framber Valdez (2-1, 3.35 ERA) vs. RHP Brayan Bello (1-4, 9.12 ERA)

PlayerGIPK%BB%GB%FIPfWAR
Valdez740.118.58.151.23.400.8
Bello625.212.811.349.57.36-0.6

Lineups

RED SOXTIGERS
Jarren Duran – LFMatt Vierling – CF
Willson Contreras – 1BKevin McGonigle – SS
Wilyer Abreu – RFJahmai Jones – DH
Trevor Story – SSDillon Dingler – C
Ceddanne Rafaela – CFRiley Greene – LF
Andruw Monasterio – DHWenceel Perez – RF
Caleb Durbin – 3BSpencer Torkelson – 1B
Connor Wong – CZach McKinstry – 3B
Isiah Kiner-Falefa – 2BHao-Yu Lee – 2B

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Timberwolves vs Spurs Same-Game Parlay for Wednesday's NBA Game 2

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The Minnesota Timberwolves found an offensive approach that worked in the fourth quarter of Game 1, gashing the San Antonio Spurs’ defense with Rudy Gobert on the bench.

This Timberwolves vs. Spurs same-game parlay expects Minnesota to double-down on that approach in Game 2 on Wednesday, May 6.

Our best Timberwolves vs Spurs SGP for Game 2

SGP leg #1: Rudy Gobert Under 11.5 Rebounds (-125)

Rudy Gobert had six rebounds in Monday’s first quarter, and he still ended with 10 boards, falling short of a prop that was set at 10.5 to start the series, albeit at plus-money. 

Gobert played an excellent 30 minutes in that tight win, helping the Minnesota Timberwolves tilt this series. Eight of those minutes came with Victor Wembanyama off the court, the San Antonio Spurs’ superstar’s only time off the court.

Minnesota is likely to focus Gobert on the chances with Wembanyama on the bench, but those are also likely to be few and far between, further limiting Gobert’s minutes.

SGP leg #2: Rudy Gobert Under 8.5 Points (-130)

Even when Gobert is on the court facing Wembanyama, Minnesota found success bringing Wemby into screen action, where he is prone to playing drop coverage despite Gobert creating separation in the on-ball defense. That allows for open 3-pointer looks for shooters like Anthony Edwards, Mike Conley and Naz Reid.

Gobert’s screen effectiveness helps the Timberwolves’ offense despite him not scoring, not to mention he managed just seven points in Game 1.

SGP leg #3: Over 215.5

Less Gobert will help both offenses. When he sat for the first 10-plus minutes of Monday’s fourth quarter, Minnesota scored 32 points. It had not yet managed more than 24 in any of the first three quarters.

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See our full Timberwolves vs Spurs Game 2 preview

Get Douglas Farmer's full breakdown of this game, including his best bet, plus the latest NBA odds, injuries, and betting trends, in his Timberwolves vs Spurs predictions for Game 2.

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See what the current line movement and updates are in the NBA Finals MVP odds race, along with Finals MVP betting trends, favorite analysis, and recent superstars to receive this award.

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Giants option Trevor McDonald, activate Joel Peguero

Joel Peguero standing on the mound.
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - SEPTEMBER 27: Joel Peguero #63 of the San Francisco Giants pitches during the game between the Colorado Rockies and the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park on Saturday, September 27, 2025 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Kavin Mistry/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

The San Francisco Giants are swapping right-handed pitchers ahead of Tuesday’s home game against the San Diego Padres. A few hours before the game, the team announced that right-handed starter Trevor McDonald had been optioned to AAA Sacramento, while right-handed reliever Joel Peguero had been activated off the 15-Day Injured List.

It might seem like a surprising sequence of moves after Monday’s game, when McDonald had one of the best pitching performances of the season for the Giants, holding the Padres to two hits and one run in seven innings, while striking out eight and walking none. But the Giants had six starters and just seven relievers, as the 25-year old McDonald had been brought up to settle the rotation following Thursday’s doubleheader. And since McDonald and Landen Roupp — the ace of the staff so far — are the only starters with options, this move always seemed most likely.

But McDonald impressed his teammates, coaching staff, and front office on Monday, and he’ll certainly be back soon, be it in the rotation or in the bullpen. After his performance in the series opener, you can bet that the Giants will feel comfortable turning to him whenever.

As for Peguero, his 30-day rehab window had expired, so he needed to either be activated or optioned to AAA, and the Giants chose the former. And what a fun time to be activated, as today is his 29th birthday! Presumably the move was decided before Monday’s game, as Alex Pavlovic reported that Peguero was with the team yesterday.

The flamethrower is still a rookie, after making his MLB debut late last year. He gives the Giants some added heat, as he makes triple digits look easy. Peguero only had a 4.82 ERA in 10 rehab appearances, but struck out 11 batters while walking just three in 9.1 innings.

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Lakers’ Luka Doncic was destined to be NBA’s next sensation — but Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stole his ‘Thunder’

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Luka Doncic driving past Max Strus, Image 2 shows Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles the ball against Miles McBride on March 29, 2026, Image 3 shows Luka Dončić, wearing a Lakers jersey, guarding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, wearing a Thunder jersey

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is in the dream position. 

He’s the reigning MVP and his Thunder are the reigning champions. He’s expected to repeat for that honor. His team is, too. 

That should’ve been Luka Doncic. 

Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander were both drafted in the 2018 class — Doncic at No. 3 and Gilgeous-Alexander at No. 11. Getty Images

In a cruel twist of fate, Doncic will be on the bench Tuesday night watching the superstar whose trajectory was supposed to be his as the Lakers open their second-round playoff series against the Thunder in Oklahoma City.

Doncic, who’s out indefinitely because of a strained hamstring, was supposed to be the young hotshot taking over the league.

But his mantle remains empty, while Gilgeous-Alexander’s is decorated with the league’s most prestigious trophies.

Doncic and Gilgeous-Alexander were in the same 2018 draft class. Doncic was selected third by the Mavericks and Gilgeous-Alexander was picked 11th by the Hornets before being traded to the Clippers that night.  

It quickly became clear that Doncic was going to become a sensation. 

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In the NBA General Manager Survey ahead of the 2020-21 season, executives were asked if they were starting a franchise today and could sign anyone in the league who they’d pick. 

Doncic and Giannis Antetokounmpo tied for first place. 

But eight years after Doncic entered the league, he has yet to win a championship or an MVP Award. 

Luka Doncic suffered a Grade 2 hamstring strain on April 2 and has missed the last five weeks of action, including Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals vs. the Thunder. AP

Meanwhile, Gilgeous-Alexander is atop the league. For the second straight season, he led the Thunder to the best record in the NBA. And according to a player poll by The Athletic, his peers believe he deserves to repeat as MVP this year. 

As for Doncic? 

He wasn’t even an MVP finalist this season despite leading the league in scoring (33.5 points), finishing third in assists (8.3) and sixth in steals (1.6). 

Doncic had an incredible season before suffering the hamstring strain on April 2. He became the second person in NBA history to score 600-plus points in March, alongside Michael Jordan. Over that period, he led the Lakers on a 16-2 run. 

But even though Doncic is a generational talent and one of the league’s top players, his career hasn’t gone as planned so far. 

He was supposed to lead the Mavericks to a championship. He was supposed to win multiple MVPs. He wanted to retire alongside the team that drafted him. 

But while Gilgeous-Alexander’s career has been on a rocket ship’s trajectory, Doncic’s has taken a serpentine road. 

While Doncic enjoyed success early in his career, Gilgeous-Alexander has ascended as the best player in the NBA. Getty Images

The two stars’ paths converged during the 2024 playoffs when they met in the second round. Doncic carried the Mavericks past the Thunder in six games. He went on to reach the Finals for the first and only time in his career. 

Things seemed to be going as planned for the Slovenian superstar. 

But eight months later, he was stunningly dealt to the Lakers.

He was shocked. Devastated. Disheartened. 

He was also disparaged.

Following the deal, whispers came from Dallas’ camp that they were frustrated with the superstar for a myriad of reasons, including his fitness and lack of effort on the defensive end. 

Meanwhile, Gilgeous-Alexander has quietly transformed from a promising young guard into the league’s biggest superstar. 

After the Clippers traded him to the Thunder in 2019, his game flourished. And Thunder general manager Sam Presti put the perfect pieces around him, including Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace and Alex Caruso. 

Gilgeous-Alexander already has an MVP, Finals MVP and title under his belt — but those could all double by the time this postseason ends. NBAE via Getty Images

Last season, the Thunder took over the NBA. 

And they seem poised for another deep playoff run. They have the best defense in the league. And Gilgeous-Alexander is leading all scorers this postseason with 33.8 points a game. 

As for Doncic, this was supposed to be a revenge season for him. 

He came into training camp in arguably the best shape of his career. He carried the Lakers to fourth place in the West. 

But he was sidelined the last month, including missing the Lakers’ first-round series against the Rockets. 

Now, as he tries to work his way back from a strained hamstring to play in this series, he has to watch the guy whose trajectory should’ve been his.

Doncic was the player everyone expected to be atop the league. 

But until he leads his team to the mountaintop, the spotlight firmly belongs to Gilgeous-Alexander.

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Los Angeles Kings' Executive Linked To Toronto Maple Leafs After John Chayka Hiring

Regarding the Toronto Maple Leafs and the hire of John Chayka to be the franchise's new GM, there have been plenty of scrutiny and rumblings that have come with it.

One report that has come out in the aftermath of the Leafs introducing Chayka and Mats Sundin as the new leaders in the hockey operations department is that Los Angeles Kings senior director of hockey operations, Jake Goldberg, has been linked to Toronto.

Frank Seravalli reported that there has been speculation about Goldberg joining Chayka's staff with the Maple Leafs. 

They share a history from their days with the Arizona Coyotes. Chayka was the GM and president of hockey operations of the Coyotes from 2016-17 to 2019-20.

As for Goldberg, he was the director of hockey operations in 2017-18 and 2018-19, and in his final year with the franchise, in 2019-20, he was an assistant GM working closely with Chayka.

Amid the links and speculation between the two NHL executives, there have also been reports about potential tampering. 

"At least one team raised a tampering concern with the NHL as incoming Toronto Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka began to fill out his staff," Seravalli reported.

John Chayka’s Tenure As Maple Leafs GM Starts With Tampering Allegation That Was Eventually DismissedJohn Chayka’s Tenure As Maple Leafs GM Starts With Tampering Allegation That Was Eventually DismissedJust as the ink dried on his new contract in Toronto, John Chayka found himself navigating a familiar storm of league-office scrutiny and tampering allegations.

It's unclear who that team might be, but speculation about Goldberg potentially reuniting with Chayka has been highlighted.

Ultimately, the NHL reportedly investigated the tampering claims but ruled the situation to be unsubstantiated.

Toronto native and 36-year-old Goldberg has spent the past five seasons with the Kings as the senior director of hockey operations. 

Three Veteran NHL Coaches That Must Be On The Kings And Ken Holland's ListThree Veteran NHL Coaches That Must Be On The Kings And Ken Holland's ListLos Angeles Kings GM Ken Holland revealed that he will be searching for a new head coach for next season. Though he'll be looking at a variation of candidates with different levels of experience, here are three veteran coaches who should be on his list.

His role with Los Angeles required him to be part of the process in negotiating player contracts, supervising the team's salary cap, preparing for arbitration when necessary, and other responsibilities related to the NHL's collective bargaining agreement.

Before becoming an NHL executive, Goldberg had multiple roles with the OHL's London Knights. He was the team's assistant director of scouting from 2013-14 to 2015-16, and in 2016-17, he was labelled as the Knights' assistant GM and director of analytics. He helped London to a Memorial Cup championship in 2016.

Furthermore, Goldberg was previously a corporate lawyer at Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP. He also played a role in the Tampa Bay Lightning organization during the 2012-13 campaign as an advanced statistics consultant.

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Padres vs Giants Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game

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The San Francisco Giants and San Diego Padres continue their three-game set tonight with two offenses still searching for consistency, which puts even more weight on the starting pitching matchup.

That’s good news for San Francisco.

With Logan Webb taking the ball against a Padres lineup that’s struggled to generate offense lately, my Giants vs. Padres predictions and MLB picks are backing the home side to take advantage in a low-scoring battle on Tuesday, May 5. 

Who will win Padres vs Giants today: Giants ML (-127)

Logan Webb is the biggest reason to trust San Francisco here. The veteran right-hander has consistently handled the San Diego Padres well, including a win in his last outing against them, and this version of San Diego’s lineup looks far less threatening than in years past.

The Padres have struggled to string together quality at-bats lately, scoring just four runs in five May contests, especially against pitchers who can limit hard contact and work deep into games — two things Webb does extremely well.

With both offenses trending toward low-scoring performances, this game likely comes down to which starter gives his team the cleaner innings. Right now, that edge belongs to Webb and the Giants at a reasonable price.

Covers COVERS INTEL: Logan Webb struck out five Padres in his first start this season, picking up the win after six solid innings of work. 

Padres vs Giants Over/Under pick: Under 7.5 (-115)

This matchup checks almost every box for a low-scoring game. San Diego enters averaging just 3.1 runs per game, dead last in home runs, while San Francisco’s offense hasn’t exactly inspired confidence either. Both teams sit near the bottom of the league in OPS and slugging percentage, making sustained rallies difficult to trust.

On the mound, Logan Webb gives the Giants a reliable edge in a game that already projects to be tight. Even Walker Buehler’s underlying matchup is manageable against a San Francisco lineup lacking consistent power production.

Unless defensive mistakes or bullpen implosions take over late, this feels more like a 3-2 or 4-2 type of game.

Padres vs Giants odds

  • Moneyline: Padres +110 | Giants -130
  • Run line: Padres +1.5 (-190) | Giants (-1.5 (+160)
  • Over/Under: Over 7.5 | Under 7.5

Padres vs Giants trend

The Giants have played to the Under in six of their last seven games. Find more MLB betting trends for Padres vs. Giants.

How to watch Padres vs Giants and game info

LocationOracle Park, San Francisco, CA
DateTuesday, May 5, 2026
First pitch9:45 p.m. ET
TVPadres.TV, NBCSBA
Padres starting pitcherWalker Buehler
(1-2, 4.50 ERA)
Giants starting pitcherLogan Webb
(2-3, 4.30 ERA)

Padres vs Giants latest injuries

Padres vs Giants weather

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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Game Thread: If we can’t beat the Canadiens

ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA - MAY 03: First baseman Jonathan Aranda #8 of the Tampa Bay Rays gets showered with Gatorade after walking off the game in the 10th inning against the San Francisco Giants at Tropicana Field on May 03, 2026 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Calvin Hernandez/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Go Rays!

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Game #36 GameThread: Jays @ Rays

An aerial view of Tropicana Field, domed multipurpose stadium of the Major League Baseball American League East division Tampa Bay Devil Rays baseball team on 3rd March 1998 at St. Petersburg, Florida, United States. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Allsport/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Some runs would be nice. Please note the term runs is plural. .

There is a little bit of news, Jose Berrios is feeling soreness, which, since he has a stress fracture, isn’t a huge surprise.

Shane Bieber is close to being ready to face live batters. It is like he’s at the start of spring training, so it will be a month before he’s back (all going well).

Tonight’s lineup with no Vlad, for the first time this year. I suppose he can have a game off every 36. But Springer is back and hitting at the top of the lineup.

Today’s Lineups

BLUE JAYSRAYS
George Springer – DHChandler Simpson – LF
Yohendrick Pinango – LFJunior Caminero – 3B
Kazuma Okamoto – 3BJonathan Aranda – 1B
Jesus Sanchez – RFYandy Diaz – DH
Lenyn Sosa – 1BJake Fraley – RF
Daulton Varsho – CFBen Williamson – SS
Ernie Clement – 2BCedric Mullins – CF
Andres Gimenez – SSHunter Feduccia – C
Brandon Valenzuela – CRichie Palacios – 2B
Kevin Gausman – RHPDrew Rasmussen – RHP

Go Jays Go.