Former Flyers Draft Pick Posthumously Diagnosed with CTE

Former Flyers draft pick Chris Simon celebrates a goal with his Islanders teammates back in 2006. (Photo: Lou Capozzola, USA TODAY)

Former Philadelphia Flyers draft pick Chris Simon has been posthumously diagnosed with Stage 3 CTE, Dr. Chris Nowinski, the founding CEO of the Concussion Legacy Foundation, announced Monday morning.

Simon was drafted 25th overall by the Flyers in the second round of the 1990 NHL Draft, but the Flyers later traded Simon to the Quebec Nordiques as part of the package for legendary forward Eric Lindros.

Simon played in the NHL for 15 seasons, with his last NHL game having been played nearly 17 years ago to the day on April 15, 2008. Simon participated in 101 fights in his NHL career.

Simon died by suicide at the age of 52 on March 18, 2024, and was long said to have been struggling with the effects of CTE. This was confirmed with Monday’s announcement.

Dr. Ann McKee of the Boston University CTE Center released the following statement in regards to her findings in the posthumous study:

“Mr. Simon had severe CTE pathology in areas of the brain involved with cognition and mood regulation, and it is likely CTE contributed to his memory problems, depression, and apathy. Individuals with a significant history of repetitive head impacts in sports who report these symptoms need to be taken seriously, and our team is committed to providing them the care they need while also continuing to advance CTE research.”

Simon’s family had this to say, as part of a longer full-length statement, in addition to Dr. McKee's words:

“Our family is extremely thankful to Dr. Ann McKee, Lisa McHale and all staff at Boston University CTE Center and the Concussion Legacy Foundation for all of their work and support. We are relieved that stage 3 CTE was definitively found in his brain as it will help bring some closure and healing to his family and friends. The unfortunate feeling of anger is also present due to the negligence of a professional league turning a blind eye to CTE and other significant brain injuries sustained in the sport of hockey.”

Simon’s family agreed to release the results of the brain study in an effort to draw attention and raise awareness for the needs of former hockey players struggling with long-term complications of repeated head traumas.

“With each new diagnosis of CTE in a former NHL player, the NHL’s lack of leadership on this issue becomes more intolerable,” Dr. Nowinski said. “Yet their denial strengthens our resolve to support the hockey community through our free HelpLine and advance research focused on diagnosing CTE during life and developing effective treatments.”

Nineteen of 20 former NHLers studied at the Boston University CTE Center, including Simon, Derek Boogaard, Bobby Hull, and Stan Mikita, have been diagnosed with CTE.

Those in need of assistance can reach the Concussion Legacy Foundation HelpLine at CLFHelpline.org.

Mets Injury Notes: Ronny Mauricio back in game action, updates on Jeff McNeil and Francisco Alvarez

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza provided a number of injury updated prior to Monday's game in Minnesota...


Ronny Mauricio

It's been a long road to recovery for Ronny Mauricio, but he's set to take a big step this week.

The young infielder will be back in game action for the first time on Tuesday afternoon, as he slots in as the designated hitter in the Florida Complex League at extended spring training.

Mauricio was initially sidelined due to a torn ACL he suffered while playing in Winter Ball last offseason, and while working his way back, he was forced to undergo a second procedure to remove scar tissue. Shortly after, he dealt with inflammation that stalled his recovery.

Since then, it's been smooth sailing for the 24-year-old. The Mets opted to not rush him back into action during spring training, but now he appears ready to take the next step.

"The fact that he's now in game action is certainly a good sign," Mendoza said. "We just want him to get at-bats in extended -- hopefully we'll get him some reps in the field and we'll see how it goes from there."

Jeff McNeil

McNeil has been feeling good over the first few days of his rehab assignment.

The slap-hitting infielder played a pair of games with Single-A St. Lucie late last week and looked strong at the plate and in the field, going 2-for-5 while also drawing a walk and scoring a run.

He has Monday off and will return to action tomorrow night with St. Lucie.

From there, McNeil will go to Triple-A Syracuse as he continues working his way back to the big league club. But Mendoza says he still has to get more at-bats before they are ready for him to return as their primary second baseman.

"He's feeling good but those are tricky injuries, with the oblique," he said.

With both Luisangel Acuña and Brett Baty struggling at the plate early on this season, getting McNeil back into the mix would certainly be a nice boost on both sides of the ball.

New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez (4) hits a single against the Washington Nationals during the fifth inning at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches
New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez (4) hits a single against the Washington Nationals during the fifth inning at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches / Sam Navarro - Imagn Images

Francisco Alvarez

Alvarez was supposed to take his rehab assignment to Triple-A this week, but instead he'll be heading to Double-A because of weather.

He's expected to join the Rumble Ponies in Reading to take on the Fightin Phils on Tuesday.

The young backstop is a bit ahead of McNeil in his road back, as he started his assignment a few days earlier, but he still has a few steps to take before rejoining the majors.

While it's more so about getting the reps than anything else, Alvarez had just one hit in 10 at-bats with St. Lucie.

It'll be interesting to see how the Mets handle the playing time when he returns, with backup Luis Torrens shining with the bat and behind the plate in his absence.

Paul Blackburn

Blackburn is scheduled to throw two-ups in live batting practice on Tuesday, and if everything goes as planned, he could begin a rehab assignment after that.

Mendoza said that the team is planning on building him back up as a starter, rather than using him as a reliever -- they indicated this toward the end of spring training. The goal is to get the veteran right-hander around 70-75 pitches.

With their busy schedule ahead, the Mets are planning on inserting a sixth starter into the rotation as early as this weekend against the Cardinals.

Canadiens Fans Are Gaga About Ivan Demidov – But Expectations Are Extremely High

Ivan Demidov (Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images)

We all know how much Montreal loves its hockey – specifically its Montreal Canadiens. 

There’s a lot for the Canadiens to get hyped up about, including being close to a playoff birth. But with top prospect Ivan Demidov joining the club and making his NHL debut Monday night against the Chicago Blackhawks – Montrealers are falling head-over-heels for the 19-year-old.

Demidov has been embraced by Canadiens fans, be it at the airport arriving in the city or just during practice – the affection is probably more than he expected, even with Canadiens staff trying to prepare him for life in a massive hockey hotbed.

That said, Demidov’s hardly the first Russian to potentially thrive in the fishbowl environment of Montreal.

Whether it was Ilya Kovalchuk – who played for the Canadiens briefly in 2020 – or former Habs fan favorites Alex Kovalev and Andrei Markov, Canadiens fans have never shied away from expressing their affection for the creativity, craftiness and high-energy games these players bring to the table. Canadiens management is also fully aware of the mutual admiration that exists between Montrealers and their exciting talent.

“It’s another part of what makes Montreal the best hockey city in the world,” Canadiens GM Kent Hughes said Monday regarding the Demidov hype. “We see it often with soccer around the world. When there’s a passion, there’s other aspects that come with it. But I think I have the impression that Ivan has felt the welcome to Montreal.”

Canadiens' Ivan Demidov Brings 'Mamba Mentality' And Otherworldly Skill To The NHLCanadiens' Ivan Demidov Brings 'Mamba Mentality' And Otherworldly Skill To The NHLThe Montreal Canadiens got a pretty special talent in Ivan Demidov. 

The hype around Demidov extends to current Canadiens players. Injured Habs center Kirby Dach moved his stationary bike to the bench just to watch him practise. 

But before everyone gets carried away with expectations for Demidov, they should give him a little room to breathe and get his feet under him as he begins competing in the best hockey league on the planet. 

To that end, Kovalchuk talked to RG.org about Demidov in March and how he has to be ready for the sky-high expectations in Montreal. 

“He needs to be ready for the reality of playing in a city where hockey is like a religion,” he said. “Every move he makes will be scrutinized by management and the media. The key is to not be shy and speak their language. It goes a long way in a market like Montreal.”

Demidov needs to heed those words. If he doesn’t light the league on fire as soon as he logs his first few games, the pressure on him will only grow. And if he does excel right away, Demidov will be expected to raise his game even higher. 

Because he’s eligible to play in the Stanley Cup playoffs, Demidov reportedly has an intriguing clause in his first NHL contract, which would pay him $525,000 if he wins the Conn Smythe Trophy as the MVP of the post-season. He can make an even bigger splash as a rookie, but that’s part of the sky-high expectations that may need to be tempered this season.

Canadiens fans are already gaga for the potential Demidov has shown in his on-ice career. If he does lay the foundation to be something truly special in this initial taste of NHL action, Habs fans will surely dive headfirst into a love affair with him that will last for many years.

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How do the Clippers match up against the Nuggets entering their playoff series?

Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook, left, controls the ball in front of Clippers guard Norman Powell.
Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook, left, controls the ball in front of Clippers guard Norman Powell during the Clippers' 126-103 loss on Jan. 8. (David Zalubowski / Associated Press)

For the Clippers to become the fifth seed in the competitive Western Conference and avoid the NBA’s play-in tournament, they had to win their last two games of the regular-season, at Sacramento and Golden State, respectively, and both games came down to the wire.

The Clippers escaped with a victory over the Kings by one point after James Harden turned the ball over late in the game that led to DeMar DeRozan missing a potential game-winning shot as time expired. The Clippers got by the Warriors in overtime behind Harden scoring 12 of their 13 points in the extra five-minute period en route to 39 points.

The Clippers are on a roll, having won eight straight games and 17 of their last 20.

Read more:How the NBA's play-in tournament works and when it starts

Kawhi Leonard finished the season strong, showing no signs of slowing down because of a right knee injury that kept him out much of the season. Ivica Zubac and Norman Powell have both starred in their roles, giving the Clippers two more weapons.

So when the Clippers and the Denver Nuggets open their best-of-seven playoff series Saturday at 12:30 p.m. at Ball Arena, it has the makings of a very intense and close series.

Let’s take a quick look at how the matchup:

KEY TEAM STATS

Clippers

Record: 50-32

Offensive rating (OFF RTG): 114.3 (15th)

Defensive rating (DEF RTG): 109.4 (3rd)

Net rating (NET RTG): 4.9 (5th)
(*Net rating subtracts defensive rating from offensive rating for a projected margin of victory.)

Nuggets

Record: 50-32

Offensive rating (OFF RTG): 118.9 (4th)

Defensive rating (DEF RTG): 115.1 (21th)

Net rating (NET RTG): 3.8 (9th)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Clippers guard James Harden led the team in scoring during the regular season.
Clippers guard James Harden led the team in scoring during the regular season. (Frank Franklin II / Associated Press)

Clippers

James Harden: 22.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 8.7 APG, 41.0 FG%, 35.2 3FG%, 87.4 FT%

Kawhi Leonard: 21.5 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 3.1 APG, 49.8 FG%, 41.1 3FG %, 81 FT%

Ivica Zubac: 16.6 PPG, 12.6 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.1 BLK PPG, 62.8 FG%, 66.1 FT%

Nuggets

Nikola Jokic: 29.6 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 10.2 APG, 57.6 FG%, 41.7 3FG%, 80.0 FT$

Jamal Murray: 21.4 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 6.0 APG, 47.4 FG%, 39.3 3FG%, 88.6 FT%

Michael Porter Jr.: 18.2 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 2.1 APG, 50.4 FG%, 39.5 3FG$, 76.8 FT%

Read more:Clippers beat Warriors and get fifth seed in NBA playoffs

HOW THEY FARED

Season series: (2-2)

Oct. 26, 2024, in Denver

Clippers 109, Nuggets 104

This was the beginning of Powell’s breakout season, a sign that he was ready to step into a big void with Leonard out recovering from a right knee injury and Paul George having taken his talents to the 76ers. Powell exploded for a career-high 37 points on 14-for-21 shooting and seven-for-11 from three-point range.

Nikola Jokic was a force with 41 points, but with Harden producing 23 points and 16 assists, the Clippers pulled off the win.

Dec. 1, 2024 in Los Angeles

Clippers 126, Nuggets 122

It took Harden playing 38 minutes, 25 seconds and producing 39 points, 11 assists and nine rebounds and it took Powell adding 28 points for the Clippers to overcome the brilliance of Jokic’s 28 points, 14 rebounds and 11 assists.

Read more:Bronny James got A+ rookie grade from JJ Redick before first Lakers start. Then LeBron's son struggled

Dec. 13, 2024 in Denver

Nuggets 120, Clippers 98

This time, it was Nuggets guard Jamal Murray who did the Clippers in. He had 20 points on a night when Jokic had just 16 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Harden struggled taking care of the ball during this game, turning it over nine times. He had just 15 points, while Powell had 16.

Jan. 8 in Denver

Nuggets 126, Clippers 103

Leonard flew back to Los Angeles before the game to help his family deal with the wildfires. Powell had 30 points. Murray led the Nuggets with 21 points and nine assists and Russell Westbrook had 19 points and eight assists.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

2025 Fantasy Baseball Injury Tracker: Royce Lewis nearing return, Wyatt Langford shelved with oblique strain

Welcome to Rotoworld's 2025 Fantasy Baseball Injury Tracker, where the staff will be keeping you up to date with all the latest injury news and status on fantasy-relevant players around the league. Check back daily for updates.

Arizona Diamondbacks

Corbin Carroll - OF (hand)

Carroll was removed in the eighth inning after he was hit by a pitch on Wednesday, June 18. After sitting out four games, a scan revealed a fractured left wrist for the 24-year-old star outfielder. Carroll was placed on the 10-day injured list retroactive to June 19 with no timetable for a return. We're probably looking at a few weeks at minimum.

Corbin Burnes - SP (elbow)

Burnes was pulled in the fifth inning of a game against the Nationals on June 1 with right elbow discomfort. After seeking a second opinion, he's set to undergo Tommy John surgery and be out for the next 12 months or so.

Justin Martinez - RP (elbow)

Martinez was pulled from a game on June 9 with elbow tightness and was placed on the 15-day injured list with a UCL sprain in his right elbow. This comes shortly after the 23-year-old right-hander was sidelined with a shoulder injury. He's now facing a 12-13 month absence, according to the team. Shelby Miller is in line to step in for most save chances in Arizona.

Jordan Montgomery - SP (Tommy John surgery)

Montgomery is set to undergo Tommy John surgery, the second of his career after having the procedure in 2018. The 32-year-old left-hander will miss the entire 2025 season and likely the start of 2026. Montgomery is entering the final year of his two-year, $47.5 million deal with Arizona and will be a free agent following the season.

A.J. Puk - RP (elbow)

Puk, sidelined since mid-April with an elbow injury, underwent Tommy John surgery on Friday, June 20. The 30-year-old left-hander will now miss all of 2025 and a significant portion of the 2026 season.

Gabriel Moreno - C (hand)

Moreno had been dealing with hand soreness for over a week after taking a wild pitch off his right hand on June 6. He was placed on the 10-day injured list on June 19 and tests revealed he was dealing with a hairline fracture in his right index finger. The injury will likely extend his absence beyond the minimum 10 days.

Athletics

Zack Gelof - 2B (hammate surgery, ribs)

Gelof began the year on the 10-day injured list after suffering a hamate bone fracture in his right hand during a spring exhibition game. The 25-year-old second baseman underwent successful surgery and was expected to be sidelined for an estimated six to eight weeks. Gelof was in the middle of a rehab assignment with Triple-A Las Vegan when he was shut down with a stress reaction in his ribs. He has resumed his rehab assignment and could be closing in on a return to the Athletics lineup.

Gunnar Hoglund - SP (hip)

After giving up eight runs over six innings in a start against the Blue Jays, Hoglund landed on the 15-day injured list with a left hip impingement. He underwent hip surgery on Friday, June 13, and is expected to miss the remainder of the 2025 season.

Shea Langeliers - C (oblique)

Langeliers was removed from a game against the Twins on June 5 with left flank soreness and was placed on the 10-day injured list with a left oblique strain. He began a minor league rehab assignment with Triple-A Las Vegas on June 25 and could return after just a few rehab games.

Atlanta Braves

Chris Sale - SP (ribs)

Sale was injured making a diving play in the infield against the Mets on June 18. He was placed on the 15-day injured list with a fractured left ribcage. The 36-year-old left-hander is looking at an extended absence, but is expected to pitch again this season.

Reynaldo López - SP (shoulder surgery)

López was placed on the injured list with right shoulder inflammation after struggling in his first start of the season. It was determined he would need arthroscopic surgery on his shoulder, sidelining him until at least August if all goes well. A cleanup procedure showed no further structural damage, and López will be re-evaluated in July.

Daysbel Hernández - RP (forearm)

The Braves placed Hernández on the injured list with forearm inflammation, retroactive to June 5th. He was seen shaking out his right arm in his most recent appearance on June 4th and left the game shortly thereafter. The expectation was that he'll be out for at least two weeks, but there's been no update on his status.

AJ Smith-Shawver - SP (Tommy John surgery)

Smith-Shawver left his start on May 29 against the Phillies after feeling a "pop" in his right elbow. Things progressed quickly from there as he was moved to the 60-day injured list and underwent Tommy John surgery, likely sidelining him for most of 2026.

Baltimore Orioles

Grayson Rodriguez - SP (elbow discomfort)

Rodriguez was officially placed on the 15-day injured list to open the year. He was shut down in early March with right elbow inflammation. He was then scratched from a bullpen session in mid-April to undergo an MRI for shoulder soreness. The results revealed a mild lat strain that will shut him down for another few weeks. With a transfer to the 60-day injured list, we're looking at a potential return closer to the second half of the season. Manager Tony Mansolino recently told reporters that the team is "hopeful" that Rodriguez will pitch in 2025.

Tyler O'Neill - OF (shoulder)

O'Neill landed on the 10-day injured list with a left shoulder impingement on May 18. It's the second time the oft-injured 29-year-old outfielder has been sidelined this season. He's was shut down from his rehab assignment for a week after receiving an injection in his AC joint on June 14 and returned to rehab games on June 22. He could be activated in the coming days if all goes well.

Ryan Mountcastle - 1B (hamstring)

Mountcastle was removed from a game on May 30 with right hamstring discomfort and was officially placed on the 10-day injured list with a hamstring strain. He was diagnosed with a Grade 2 strain and is expected to miss 8-12 weeks, putting him on the shelf until at least August.

Cade Povich - SP (hip)

A day after tossing 3 2/3 scoreless innings to earn a win, Povich landed on the 15-day injured list with left hip inflammation on June 16. He surrendered five runs, three earned, over 4 1/3 innings in his first rehab start.

Boston Red Sox

Masataka Yoshida - OF (off-season shoulder surgery)

Yoshida remains on the 60-day injured list as he continues his rehab from offseason shoulder surgery. Following the trade of Rafael Devers to the Giants, manager Alex Cora indicated that Yoshida's rehab will be fast-tracked to get him back in the lineup as the team's designated hitter. He's expected to begin a rehab assignment on Tuesday, July 1.

Kutter Crawford - SP (knee)

Crawford, out all season with a knee injury, threw a three-inning bullpen session and was set for a rehab assignment, but was shut down after he felt some pain in his right wrist. He'll undergo surgery on his wrist and miss the rest of the season.

Triston Casas - 1B (knee)

Casas suffered a significant knee injury running to first base during a game on May 2 and had to be carted off the field. The 25-year-old first baseman underwent season-ending surgery to repair a ruptured patellar tendon in his left knee.

Alex Bregman - 3B (quad)

Bregman was removed from a game against the Orioles on May 23 with right quad tightness and placed on the 10-day injured list. Manager Alex Cora recently told reporters that Bregman is unlikely to return before the All-Star break. Marcelo Mayer has filled in at third base.

Justin Slaten - RP (shoulder)

Slaten was placed on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation on May 29 and remains shut down from throwing. It was revealed the 27-year-old right-hander is dealing with a nerve-related issue in his neck. Slaten will likely remain out until sometime after the All-Star break.

Tanner Houck - SP (forearm)

Houck was placed on the injured list on May 13th with a right flexor pronator strain. He made his first rehab start a month later on June 18th and threw 32 pitches in his lone inning of work, then surrendered four runs in his second start on June 25.

Hunter Dobbins - SP (elbow)

Dobbins was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right elbow strain on June 21. There's no timetable for a return, but it'll likely be longer than the minimum stint. Richard Fitts has stepped into his spot in the rotation, while Kyle Harrison could be a possibility in the near future.

Chicago Cubs

Javier Assad - SP (Strained Oblique)

Assad suffered a mild oblique strain in mid-February that has kept him out all season. He was transferred to the 60-day injured list in late April after experiencing a setback. After Assad was shut down for a month, he resumed a throwing program in late May. While there's no clear timetable, a return in June is unlikely.

Justin Steele - SP (elbow)

Steele landed on the 15-day injured list following his last start with left elbow tendinitis. After undergoing an MRI exam, it was determined the 29-year-old left-hander would need season-ending surgery on his left elbow. Steele underwent a UCL revision surgery, which is less invasive than a full Tommy John and should put him in line to return early next season.

Miguel Amaya - C (oblique)

Amaya landed on the 10-day injured list on May 25 with a left oblique strain and is expected to miss 4-6 weeks, putting him out until around the All-Star break. The 26-year-old backstop was hitting .280 with four homers through 27 games. Reese McGuire has filled in for backup catching duties behind Carson Kelly.

Chicago White Sox

Davis Martin - SP (forearm)

The White Sox placed Martin on the 15-day injured list with a forearm stain ahead of his scheduled start on June 20th. There's currently no timeline for a return.

Cam Booser - RP (shoulder strain)

Booser was placed on the 15-day injured list with a shoulder strain on Friday June 20th. He was somewhat in the mix for the few saves the White Sox make available, but now will likely be out until at least the All-Star break.

Jonathan Cannon - SP (back)

Cannon's velocity was down during his last outing on June 2 against the Tigers. He was placed on the 15-day injured list the next day with a strained lower back. Cannon made a rehab start on Tuesday, June 24. His next start could come with the White Sox.

Cincinnati Reds

Hunter Greene - SP (groin)

Greene has been placed back on the IL with a groin strain. This is the second time this season he's been shelved with that same injury, so expect the Reds to be much more cautious with his recovery and return this time around. The 25-year-old right-hander is scheduled to throw a bullpen session next week. He'll likely be out until at least around the All-Star break.

Noelvi Marte - 3B (strained oblique)

Marte landed on the 10-day injured list with a Grade 2 left oblique strain. The injury typically carries a 4-8 week timetable. The 23-year-old third baseman began a minor league rehab assignment on June 20 and could be back in the infield mix for the Reds by the end of June or early July.

Austin Hays - OF (foot)

Hays was placed on the 10-day injured list on May 29 with a left foot contusion, already his third trip to the injured list this season. With persistent pain in his foot, an MRI did not reveal any structural damage, so Hays is dealing with a deep bone bruise. There's no clear timeline for a return.

Wade Miley - SP (flexor strain)

This is not good news for Miley. The Reds placed him on the injured list with a flexor strain and gave no timeline for his return. Sometimes, flexor strains could be a precursor for much more serious elbow injuries, so don't expect him back soon.

Cleveland Guardians

Shane Bieber - SP (Tommy John surgery)

Bieber underwent Tommy John surgery early in the 2024 season. The 29-year-old right-hander was targeting the All-Star break for his return, but he's ahead of schedule in his recovery. He began a rehab assignment on May 31st, but was scratched from his next scheduled start with what was described as continued elbow soreness. The soreness was deemed normal after follow-up testing revealed no structural damage.

Colorado Rockies

Ezequiel Tovar - SS (oblique)

Tovar exited Monday's game against the Marlins with discomfort in his left side. He was held out of the Rockies' games for the rest of the week and finally placed on the IL on June 6. Hopefully this isn't an extended absence, but oblique injuries tend to be fickle.

Detroit Tigers

Jackson Jobe - SP (strained elbow flexor)

Jobe was placed on the 15-day injured list with a Grade 1 right elbow flexor strain on May 30. This comes after his velocity was notably down in his previous start against the Giants. It was determined shortly after that the 22-year-old right-hander will need to undergo Tommy John surgery, likely keeping him out until late 2026.

Reese Olson - SP (finger inflammation)

Olson has been out since May 18 with inflammation in his right ring finger. While he's been throwing for a couple of weeks, he received an injection on June 3 to address remaining inflammation in his finger. Olson was finally cleared for a rehab assignment on June 13 and was up to 74 pitches in what was likely his final tune-up before rejoining the Tigers rotation.

Alex Cobb - SP (hip inflammation)

The oft-injured Cobb has made at least 20 starts just twice in the last six seasons. The 37-year-old right-hander is working his way back after suffering a right hip impingement at the outset of Spring Training. Cobb had begun a minor league rehab assignment, throwing two innings for Triple-A Toledo in his first start, before receiving a cortisone injection to treat inflammation in his other hip.

Houston Astros

Yordan Alvarez - OF/DH (hand inflammation)

Alvarez sat a couple of games with right hand discomfort and was placed on the 10-day injured list with right hand inflammation. The 27-year-old slugger has been sidelined since May 3 and has just recently progressed to hitting off a tee. He remains without an official timetable.

Lance McCullers Jr. - SP (foot)

After a few solid starts, McCullers was placed on the 15-day injured list after what was described as a 'freak accident' in the team's weight room. That sounds like he dropped a weight on his foot, but manager Joe Espada has assured reporters it'll only be a minimum stay on the IL for McCullers.

Spencer Arrighetti - SP (thumb)

Arrighetti has been sidelined for two months after fracturing his thumb during on-field batting practice in a freak accident in early April. He's progressed to throwing bullpen sessions and should move on to facing hitters before starting a rehab assignment, hopefully putting him in line to return sometime in July.

Zach Dezenzo - 1B/OF (hand)

Dezenzo was removed from a game on May 31 with left hand discomfort and placed on the 10-day injured list with hand inflammation. He was diagnosed with a capsule sprain in his left hand and has no currently timeline for a return.

Luis Garcia - SP (Tommy John surgery)

Garcia is making progress in his return from Tommy John surgery. He threw a live bullpen session on Wednesday, June 25, and could be nearing a rehab assignment in the coming weeks.

Cristian Javier - SP (Tommy John surgery)

Javier had Tommy John surgery last year and appears on track to return in the second half of this season. He recently threw a 20-pitch bullpen session and could work his way up to a rehab assignment soon.

Ronel Blanco - SP (elbow)

Blanco underwent Tommy John surgery with an internal brace procedure on Friday, June 6. The surgery also addressed a repair of the right flexor tendon. The 31-year-old right-hander isn't expected back until the late stages of 2026.

Kansas City Royals

Cole Ragans - SP (groin strain)

The Royals ace made it off the injured list for one start and was shelved once again with a shoulder injury. The team officially placed Ragans on the 15-day injured list on June 8 with a left rotator cuff strain and has shut him down from throwing for two additional weeks. He's also seeking a second opinion on that shoulder, which typically doesn't lead to good news.

Hunter Harvey - RP (shoulder)

Harvey was placed on the 15-day injured list with a Grade 1 right teres major sprain. He experienced renewed soreness during his rehab in early May, slowing his recovery. The team officially moved him to the 60-day injured list. Harvey had been pitching well out of the Royals bullpen with seven strikeouts over 5 1/3 scoreless innings.

Los Angeles Angels

Ben Joyce - RP (right shoulder inflammation)

After experiencing a dip in velocity in his most recent outing, Joyce was placed on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation. He experienced renewed soreness and underwent season-ending shoulder surgery.

Robert Stephenson - RP (biceps)

Stephenson had made his return from Tommy John surgery in late May but his return was short lived as he was placed on the 15-day injured list with right biceps inflammation. An MRI revealed no structural damage, but there still remains no timetable for a return.

Jorge Soler - OF (back)

Soler had sat out a few games with lower back soreness and landed on the 10-day injured list on June 20 as he made little progress. He could return when eligible early next week.

Los Angeles Dodgers

Blake Snell - SP (shoulder)

Snell was placed on the 15-day injured list with left shoulder inflammation on April 3 following his second start of the season in which he allowed five runs and walked four batters. An MRI revealed no structural damage, but the 32-year-old southpaw had been shut down from throwing after experiencing renewed shoulder discomfort. He tossed his first bullpen session since April on June 10 and said to be pain free. Snell is still likely a couple of weeks away from a minor league rehab assignment.

Tyler Glasnow - SP (shoulder)

Glasnow was removed from his start against the Pirates on April 27 after one inning with right shoulder discomfort. He's currently on the 60-day injured list as his recovery has been slowed by some general soreness. He made his first rehab start on Sunday, June 22, tossing two scoreless innings on 48 pitches. Glasnow will likely need another couple of outings before returning to the Dodgers rotation.

Roki Sasaki - SP (shoulder)

Sasaki was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right shoulder impingement on May 13, an issue he had pitched through for a few starts. He resumed throwing in late May but was shut down a few weeks later and the Dodgers have since transferred him to the 60-day IL. He's first eligible to return just after the All-Star break and it's unclear if he'll even be throwing again by then.

Blake Treinen - RP (forearm)

Treinen landed on the 15-day injured list with right forearm tightness on April 19, then transferred to the 60-day injured list in early May after an MRI revealed a low-grade forearm strain. He resumed throwing in mid-May, but there's been no update on his status since.

Tony Gonsolin - SP (elbow)

Gonsolin was placed on the 15-day injured list on June 7 after experiencing right elbow discomfort following his last start. Manager Dave Robert stated Gonzolin's UCL in his right elbow remains in tact, but he was placed on the 60-day IL soon thereafter. The vagueness of these reports don't inspire much confidence.

Miami Marlins

Griffin Conine - OF (shoulder)

Conine suffered a dislocated left shoulder on a slide into second base on April 19 and will undergo season-ending surgery. The 27-year-old outfielder was in the midst of a breakout season, hitting .281/.352/.438 over 71 plate appearances.

Ryan Weathers - SP (lat strain)

Weather left his last start on June 7 with an apparent arm injury. He was also hit by a throw on the head during warmups in between innings. He later underwent evaluation for shoulder discomfort and was placed on the 60-day injured list with a left lat strain, putting him out until at least early August.

Max Meyer - SP (hip impingement)

After giving up 11 runs over his last two starts, the Marlins put Meyer on the 15-day injured list with a hip impingement on June 3. It wasn't expected to be a long stay on the injured list, but after meeting with a specialist it was determined he'd need season-ending hip surgery. He should be ready for the start of spring training next season.

Milwaukee Brewers

Brandon Woodruff - SP (shoulder surgery)

Woodruff underwent shoulder surgery at the end of the 2023 season that sidelined him for all of last year. He made one appearance in spring training, tossing one scoreless inning. The 32-year-old right-hander began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Nashville and was stuck on the right elbow by a 108 mph comebacker in his start on June 3rd. His X-rays came back negative. He's set to get back into minor league action by the end of June with hopes to finally join the Milwaukee rotation in July.

Nestor Cortes - SP (elbow)

Cortes had bounced back with a strong start following his blowup outing against the Yankees on March 29. However, he landed on the 15-day injured list with a left elbow flexor strain. The 30-year-old left-hander had been shut down for a few weeks and received a PRP injection in hopes to expedite his recovery. He started playing catch in May and came out of a bullpen session feeling good in mid-June. Cortes should be nearing a rehab assignment.

Garrett Mitchell - OF (oblique strain, shoulder)

Mitchell exited a game on April 25 with left oblique tightness and was placed on the 10-day injured list with a strain. He finally began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Nashville on June 17th, but injured his shoulder during a rehab game and will be out at least an additional 8-10 weeks.

Minnesota Twins

Pablo López - SP (shoulder)

López abruptly exited his start on Tuesday, June 3rd while warming up for the sixth inning after feeling some discomfort in his lat. After an MRI, the team announced he had a Grade 2 teres major strain in his right shoulder and is expected to miss 8-12 weeks.

Luke Keaschall - OF (fractured forearm)

Keaschall suffered a left forearm fracture after he was hit by a pitch during a game against the Angels on April 25. The 22-year-old prospect was 7-for-19 at the plate with five steals. He was moved to the 60-day injured list in May and won't return until at least late June or early July.

Zebby Matthews - SP (shoulder)

The Twins took another hit to the rotation with Matthews landing on the 15-day injured list on June 5 with a right shoulder strain. The 25-year-old right-hander will be shut down for two weeks before he's re-evaluated. There's no current timeline for a return.

Royce Lewis - 3B (hamstring)

Lewis was removed from a game against the Astros on Friday, June 13 with a left hamstring strain. He was placed on the 10-day injured list and is set to begin a minor league rehab assignment on Friday, June 27. Lewis could return for the Twins' series opener against the Marlins on Tuesday, July 1.

New York Mets

Sean Manaea - SP (strained oblique)

Manaea felt some discomfort in his right oblique when spring training began and was shut down for a few weeks. He began a throwing program in mid-March, but again felt discomfort in that same oblique on April 1. He's made two starts in a minor league rehab assignment and was shut down for a couple of days to address a loose body in his left elbow. Manaea is still expected to return sometime around the All-Star break.

Jesse Winker - OF (strained oblique)

Winker was placed on the IL with a Grade 2 oblique strain on May 5th. He is expected to be out for six to eight weeks. In an update on June 13, manager Carlos Mendoza told reporters that Winker is still weeks away from a rehab assignment.

Kodai Senga - SP (hamstring)

Senga injured his right hamstring while fielding a play during a start on June 12. He was diagnosed with a Grade 1 right hamstring strain and will hopefully need just a couple of weeks before returning to the rotation.

Griffin Canning - SP (torn Achilles)

Canning was removed from his start on Thursday, June 26 with a left ankle injury. It was revealed that the 29-year-old right-hander suffered a ruptured left Achilles, sidelining him for the rest of the season.

New York Yankees

Luis Gil - SP (strained lat)

The oft-injured Gil opened the season on the 60-day injured list after suffering a high-grade lat strain during spring training. Manager Aaron Boone proclaimed he'd be out "at least three months" just after the injury was announced. He was cleared to begin a throwing program on April 27 and faced live hitters on Saturday June 21st. He could have a chance to join the Yankees rotation by the end of July.

Marcus Stroman - SP (knee)

Stroman was placed on the injured list on April 12th with left knee inflammaiton. That came after a few awful starts and turbulent few months where Stroman demanded to be a starting pitcher. After vaguely being held out for months, he finally began a rehab assignment on June 11th with Double-A Somerset, putting him on track to return to the majors soon. Yet, his role there remains unclear.

Philadelphia Phillies

Aaron Nola - SP (ankle, oblique)

Nola went to the IL on May 15th after an ankle sprain and numerous poor starts. He was set to face live hitters for the first time this week, but felt some "mild" soreness in his side and was shut down. He's still yet to throw a competitive pitch since the original ankle injury and likely won't be back until after the All-Star break at the earliest after he was transferred to the 60-day injured list.

Bryce Harper - 1B (wrist)

Harper was held out of the lineup on Friday, June 6 with some wrist soreness. The team decided to take the cautionary approach by placing the star first baseman on the 10-day injured list with wrist inflammation. He's set to take batting practice on Friday, June 27, and could return shortly after as he likely won't require a rehab assignment.

Pittsburgh Pirates

Jared Jones - SP (elbow discomfort)

The Pirates were dealt a blow when Jones was diagnosed with a right UCL sprain in his elbow before the start of the season. The 23-year-old right-hander was placed on the 60-day injured list and underwent season-ending surgery. He could be ready to return in early 2026 following an internal brace procedure rather than a full Tommy John surgery.

Endy Rodriguez - C/1B (elbow)

Rodriguez's return was short lived as he landed back in the injured list with right elbow discomfort. He was transferred to the 60-day injured list and set to receive a PRP injection before resting for four weeks.

San Diego Padres

Michael King - SP (shoulder)

King was scratched from a start on May 24 with right shoulder soreness he attributed to sleeping awkwardly. He was officially placed on the 15-day injured list retroactive to May 22 with right shoulder inflammation. Padres manager Mike Shildt told reporters on June 18th that the right-hander will be held out until at least after the All-Star break.

Yu Darvish - SP (elbow soreness)

Darvish experienced arm fatigue in mid-March and was diagnosed with right elbow inflammation. The 38-year-old right-hander began a rehab assignment in May, but was pulled off it after experiencing further discomfort. He threw a simulated game on Wednesday, June 25, and could be ready for a rehab assignment in early July.

San Francisco Giants

Matt Chapman - 3B (hand)

Chapman jammed his hand while diving to first base on June 8 and was placed on the 10-day injured list with hand inflammation. He was diagnosed with a right hand sprain and was shut down for a couple of weeks after seeing a hand specialist. The team is hoping to get the 32-year-old third baseman back in early-to-mid July.

Seattle Mariners

Victor Robles - OF (dislocated shoulder)

Robles injured himself on an incredible play against the Giants on April 6, colliding with the wall and netting down the right-field line. The 27-year-old outfielder came away with a dislocated right shoulder. While he looks to have avoided surgery at the moment, he's expected to be out until September.

Bryce Miller (elbow)

Miller landed on the 15-day injured list on May 14 with right elbow inflammation. It was later revealed he has been dealing with a bone spur in the back of his elbow, something he'll pitch through all season before potentially resolving the issue in the off-season. He made two starts in his return and landed back on the injured list on June 7 with elbow inflammation. He's expected to return in the next 4-6 weeks.

St. Louis Cardinals

Ivan Herrera - C (hamstring)

Herrera was placed on the 10-day injured list with a Grade 2 left hamstring strain on June 20, an injury that ranges from 2-6 weeks. Pedro Pages is picking up the bulk of catching duties in his absence.

Tampa Bay Rays

Shane McClanahan - SP (triceps nerve inflammation)

McClanahan, making his way back from Tommy John surgery, suffered a left arm injury during a spring training start on March 22. He was diagnosed with nerve inflammation in his left triceps and apparently had a 'very good meeting' with a nerve specialst in mid-June. That's a strange sentence to hear, but Kevin Cash assured reporters that McClanahan is set to resume his throwing program soon. He threw off a mound on Wednesday, June 25, but he'll likely need a few bullpen sessions and a lengthy rehab assignment before a potential return.

Ha-Seong Kim - SS (shoulder surgery)

Kim underwent offseason shoulder surgery before signing on with the Rays on a two-year, $29 million contract. The 29-year-old infielder is expected to make his debut with Tampa Bay sometime in early July and should step in as the team's primary shortstop upon his return. Kim is currently on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Durham.

Jonny DeLuca - OF (strained shoulder)

DeLuca had been hitting well to start the season before landing on the 10-day injured list on April 8, slashing .435/.480/.522 with four steals over nine games. The 26-year-old outfielder was expected to miss 2-4 weeks with a right shoulder strain, but suffered a setback during his rehab assignment on May 28, clouding his potential return.

Hunter Bigge - RP (face)

In a scary moment, Bigge was hit in the face by a line drive while sitting in the dugout during the Rays' game on June 19th. He's been on the injured list since early May with a lat strain. Bigge underwent surgery to repair multiple facial fractures and has no timeline for a return.

Texas Rangers

Cody Bradford - SP (elbow soreness)

Bradford was shut down in mid-March with left elbow soreness and had been attempting to rehab the injury before it was determined he'd need season-ending surgery. It's not currently known if it's an internal brace procedure or Tommy John surgery.

Jon Gray - SP (fractured wrist)

Gray suffered a fractured right wrist after he was struck by a line drive during a spring training start on March 14. He was shut down from throwing for six weeks and placed on the 60-day injured list. Finally, he threw a bullpen session on June 18th and will likely embark on a long rehab assignment soon.

Joc Pederson - DH (hand)

Pederson suffered a fractured right hand when he was hit by a pitch on May 24. He's likely facing a lengthy absence with a goal to return sometime after the All-Star break, though there's been no clear timetable for the 33-year-old slugger.

Jake Burger - 1B (oblique)

Burger was placed on the 10-day injured list on June 21 with a left oblique strain and will be sidelined for at least a couple of weeks.

Wyatt Langford - OF (oblique)

Langford has been on the bench since Wednesday, June 25 with left side tightness. An evaluation Friday revealed a minor left oblique strain. The team has decided to give him some time to recover by placing him on the 10-day injured list.

Toronto Blue Jays

Anthony Santander - OF (shoulder)

Santander has been hampered by nagging shoulder and hip issues as he's posted just a .577 OPS on the season. The team placed him on the 10-day injured list on May 30 and he received a PRP injection shortly after. He's still not hitting and there's been no update on a potential timeline.

Washinton Nationals

Dylan Crews - OF (oblique)

Crews was removed from a game on May 20 against the Braves following an awkward check swing and underwent an MRI that revealed a left oblique strain. He was placed on the 10-day injured list with no clear timetable to return. Crews started taking light swings over the last week.

MLS votes no on post-world cup calendar change + Andre Onana benched! Right move by Amorim?

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to the news that MLS voted down the possibility of moving to the European calendar after the 2026 World Cup. Is this a missed opportunity for the league to expand their fanbase by immediately following the World Cup? Christian and Alexis then give us their thoughts on Ruben Amorim benching Andre Onana over the weekend. Later, Christian and Alexis break down the newest Italian gambling probe that includes the UMSNT’s own Weston McKennie.

Predators Call Up Promising Prospect Defenseman

Ryan Ufko (© Dave Kallmann / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

The Nashville Predators have announced that they have recalled defenseman Ryan Ufko from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Milwaukee Admirals. In addition, the team announced that Ufko will make his NHL debut during the Predators' April 14 contest against the Utah Hockey Club.

Ufko, 21, has been quite solid for the Admirals this season, so it is understandable that he is now getting his first chance on the Predators' roster. In 71 games this campaign with the AHL squad, he has recorded eight goals, 21 assists, 29 points, and a plus-3 rating. This is after he posted six points in his first nine AHL games with the Admirals this past season.

Ufko was selected by the Predators with the 115th overall pick of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. Before beginning his professional career with the Predators organization, he spent three seasons with UMass-Amherst from 2021-22 to 2023-24. In 106 games with the school, the 5-foot-10 defenseman posted 23 goals and 81 points. 

Predators Top Prospect Is Heating Up In AHLPredators Top Prospect Is Heating Up In AHLNashville Predators prospect Joakim Kemell is considered one of the team's most promising youngsters. The 20-year-old forward is continuing to develop his game at the American Hockey League (AHL) level with the Milwaukee Admirals and is in the middle of a solid season that saw him play in the 2025 AHL All-Star Classic. Predators Sign Tough Guy To Contract ExtensionPredators Sign Tough Guy To Contract ExtensionThe Nashville Predators have announced that they have signed forward Navrin Mutter to a one-year, two-way contract extension for the 2025-26 season. Former Predators Forward Done For The SeasonFormer Predators Forward Done For The SeasonPittsburgh Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan has announced that former Nashville Predators forward Tommy Novak will be out for the rest of the season. 

Hodge Announces Signing of Honor Huff

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (April 14, 2025) – West Virginia University men’s basketball coach Ross Hodge has announced the signing of Honor Huff to a grant-in-aid for the 2025-26 season.Huff, a 5-foot-10, 168-pound senior guard from Brooklyn, New York, comes to West Virginia from Chattanooga, where he played the last two seasons.

‘Celtics City' beyond the episode: Reggie Lewis and a dark time in C's history

‘Celtics City' beyond the episode: Reggie Lewis and a dark time in C's history originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

Episode 7 of Max’s Celtics City docuseries, titled “Not Again,” spotlighted a dark era in the franchise’s storied history.

Only seven years after Len Bias’ tragic death, the Celtics experienced another devastating loss. In July 1993, Reggie Lewis suffered sudden cardiac death at age 27 while working out in preparation for the 1993-94 NBA season.

Lewis, an NBA All-Star in 1992, collapsed on the court three months before his death during Game 1 of the Celtics’ playoff series against the Charlotte Hornets. He briefly returned to the game but was eventually pulled again after experiencing dizziness and shortness of breath.

The next day, Lewis was diagnosed with “focal cardiomyopathy,” a disease of the heart muscle that can cause irregular heartbeat and heart failure. Lewis was told his condition was likely career-ending, but after seeking a second opinion, he was told he had a less serious and non-fatal condition called neurocardiogenic syncope.

More Celtics City ‘Beyond the Episode’

Longtime NBA reporter Jackie MacMullan knew Lewis personally and was in attendance when he collapsed on the court. She recalled Lewis’ tragic death during NBC Sports Boston’s Keys to the City show recapping Episode 7, as seen in the video player above.

“I saw it in real time, but I don’t think I understood. Did he trip on something?” MacMullan said. “I was so relieved when he came back into the game, I really was. Then I saw him go with the team doctor and I thought, ‘Well this isn’t good.’

“What went on from then on was the worst story in the history of my life and everybody else around it. There was nobody I loved more than Reggie Lewis, that’s just the truth. He was a wonderful person, he was a great teammate, never had a technical foul in his entire life, and was an MVP in the community in Roxbury and Dorchester much the way no one since Bill Russell had invested in the community. … His story deserved a better ending.”

Celtics City Episode 7 delved into how the team went downhill following Larry Bird’s retirement, spiraling into crisis and irrelevance upon Rick Pitino’s arrival in 1997. One month before the 2000-01 season, promising forward Paul Pierce was left clinging for his life after being stabbed in a Boston nightclub. Those 15 years dating back to Bias’ untimely death marked a horrific time in franchise history, to say the least.

Learn more about the life and legacy of Reggie Lewis with NBC Sports Boston’s exclusive interviews and footage below:

Reggie Lewis’ family and friends discuss his life and the impact he made on and off the court with the Celtics andthe city. Included are moments from Lewis’ number being retired by Red Auerbach and the Celtics, interviews with Dee Brown, Tommy Heinsohn, Jackie MacMullan, Muggsy Bogues, David Wingate, Kendall Gill, Jim Calhoun, and his mother, Inez Ritch.

SportsChannel and Mike Gorman, longtime voice of the Celtics, look back at the life of Reggie Lewis.

Reggie Lewis career highlights:

Hull deny playoff-chasing Coventry as Frank Lampard left frustrated in stand

Frank Lampard watched on from the stands as his playoff-chasing Coventry side were held to a 1-1 draw at struggling Hull. Lampard served a one-match touchline ban at the MKM Stadium and was fined £2,000 after his sending off at the end of the defeat by Burnley earlier this month for an outburst at referee James Bell.

While Coventry largely dominated Hull and went ahead through a deflected strike from Matt Grimes, who earlier produced two goalline blocks to deny Kasey Palmer, substitute Abu Kamara equalised. Lampard’s side therefore stay sixth, moving three points clear of seventh-placed West Brom, and the manager may rue his team’s lack of a clinical edge as Hull goalkeeper Ivor Pandur made several important saves.

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Umpire trolled by LASIK company for atrocious call in Giants game

Umpire trolled by LASIK company for atrocious call in Giants game originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

For all of the talk about the ABS system making its way to MLB games, the Giants certainly benefited from its absence in their 10-4 win over the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday at Citizens Bank Park.

Home plate umpire Tony Randazzo fell victim to Giants catcher Patrick Bailey’s elite framing skills in the bottom of the seventh inning, calling Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto out on strikes with runners on first and second and Philadelphia trailing 8-4. Unfortunately for the Phillies, Erik Miller’s slider was almost in the other batter’s box and should have been called ball four.

Mistakes happen, but LASIK.com took the opportunity to question Randazzo’s eyesight with a comical advertisement aimed at MLB umpires on X, formerly known as Twitter, after the call.

Only time will tell if Randazzo takes up the company’s offer. But the Giants and Miller certainly weren’t complaining after improving to 12-4 on the 2025 MLB season following the questionable call in a big spot on Monday.

Download and follow the Giants Talk Podcast

Mets’ Sean Manaea resumes light throwing after latest MRI shows improvement

Mets starter Sean Manaea took a big step on Monday afternoon.

The left-hander was able to resume light throwing from up to 60 feet after the latest MRI on his right oblique showed “improvement,” manager Carlos Mendoza said. 

Manaea, of course, was first sidelined with the injury during the early stages of spring training -- and he was initially expected to make his return to the mound somewhere in mid-to-late April.

Things had been progressing as planned until that timeline ended up being pushed back at the beginning of the month, when he was shut down after experiencing discomfort in his oblique.

An MRI showed some inflammation and he received a PRP injection, slowing him another two weeks.

After taking that time off, it appears that Manaea is finally ready to get back on his road to recovery -- though Mendoza did say that the team will keep him at the distance and intensity for the next ten days or so in an effort to play it safe.

If everything continues going as planned, he could be back towards the end of May or later.

Siri IL decision coming soon

Jose Siri is still very sore after suffering a shin contusion during Saturday's game in Sacramento.

The speedy outfielder is undergoing another MRI, and manager Carlos Mendoza said the team is hoping to have a decision on if he'll have to go on the injured list or not following Monday's game.

"We'll see how the results are, but we'll have a conversation after and see where we go from there," he said.

The skipper added that everything is on the table as far as replacing Siri if he were to miss additional time, and he told Luisangel Acuña to make sure he gets some reps out there during BP after finishing his infield work.

The youngster has only played the infield during his time in the majors, but he appeared in 31 games in center while in Triple-A last season.

European football: Scott McTominay double keeps Napoli on Inter’s title trail

  • Napoli three points off top after beating Empoli 3-0
  • Atlético overcome lowly Valladolid 4-2 in La Liga

Napoli cruised to a 3-0 home win over Empoli on Monday, with Scott McTominay striking twice and Romelu Lukaku also on target as the hosts kept pace with Inter. Antonio Conte’s side were feeling the pressure after Inter’s 3-1 home win against Cagliari on Saturday, but they cut the gap back to three points with six matches to go. Napoli are seven points clear of Atalanta in third as the Serie A title battle narrows to a two-horse race.

It took 18 minutes for Napoli to open the scoring as Lukaku battled free in midfield and passed to McTominay, whose low long-range shot bounced over Devis Vásquez’s outstretched hand and into the corner of the net.

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Walker's hiccup inning against Giants a flashback to 2024 season

Walker's hiccup inning against Giants a flashback to 2024 season originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

Taijuan Walker wasn’t going to keep the goose egg earned run average forever — but things certainly escalated quickly.

And unfortunately when it comes to the right-handed pitcher, if it rains, it pours.

The Giants entered Monday night with the second-best winning percentage in the Majors — and in his first real test of the season — Walker faltered in the Phillies’ 10-4 loss at Citizens Bank Park.

The club is now 9-7 on the season and have dropped four of their last five games.

Walker entered the second frame with early run support, an infrequent occurrence through the first 16 games. It was flushed away in a blowout inning from the Giants, who batted through the order and put up six runs.

One play goes differently and the Phillies would’ve gotten out of the inning allowing just one run and still holding the lead. Instead of a double play, a throwing error from Walker sent the ball into shallow center field and play continued.

What happened next gave flashbacks to 2024 Walker with the domino effect in place. He gave up home runs to Tyler Fitzgerald and Willy Adames, both of which hadn’t homered to this point in the season.

“I think (the error) changes the entire inning,” Rob Thomson said after the game. “Other than that one inning where he made a couple of mistakes, hanging cutter and a fastball he’s trying to go in and left it out over the plate, I thought he pitched pretty good. His stuff was good, he saved the pen, he grinded through five innings.”

The error on Walker came a few plays after his 28th pickoff since 2015. It’s the most by any right-handed pitcher in that span and third overall in MLB.

“I felt like my stuff was pretty good still, attacking the zone,” Walker said after the outing. “One of the biggest things, I would get (ahead in the count) pretty quick and could put them away. Quite a few (full) counts and the pitch count got too high but for the most part though, my stuff was pretty good, it’s just really that one inning.”

He’s right. You take away the second inning and suddenly he has four scoreless and only gave up two hits. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. The magnitude of the inning that needed to be flushed was too big of a burden to bear for the Phillies’ offense.

Hot right out of the gate, the Phillies put up three runs in the first inning. The only other offensive contribution was a Nick Castellanos solo home run. With two men on in the seventh, J.T. Realmuto was inches away from the second home run of the night but it hooked the wrong side of the left field foul pole. Three pitches later on a full count, he was called out on strikes on a very questionable slider that was well off the plate.

Walker has turned into a surprising storyline after his first start of the year against the Rockies. He pitched six scoreless innings and collected his first win since May of last season.

That was followed up with another scoreless outing against the Braves. Suddenly, the spot in the rotation with the most question marks heading into the season, showed some promise.

Which leads us to his performance against the Giants: 5.0 IP, 6 H, 6 R, 4 ER, 1 BB, 5 K, 99 P, 2.30 ERA

They say once is an accident, twice is a coincidence and three times is a pattern.

So, was the hiccup inning an accident? Were his first two starts only a coincidence?

The way he responds the next time he takes the mound will be telling.