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Four Rays named to 2026 All-Star Game

ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA - JUNE 8: Bryan Baker #47 of the Tampa Bay Rays celebrates a win against the Boston Red Sox at Tropicana Field on June 8, 2026 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Parker S. Freedman/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Right-handed pitcher Bryan Baker, infielder Junior Caminero, designated hitter Yandy Díaz, and right-handed pitcher Drew Rasmussen have been named American League (AL) All-Stars and will represent the Tampa Bay Rays at the 2026 Major League Baseball (MLB) All-Star Game at Philadelphia’s Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday, July 14.

This marks the fifth time the Rays have had four players or more selected as All-Stars, joining 2025 (four), 2023 (four), 2010 (four), and 2009 (five). It is also the fifth season in which multiple Rays pitchers have been named to the Midsummer Classic along with 2015 (Chris Archer and Brad Boxberger), 2012 (David Price and Fernando Rodney), 2011 (Price and James Shields), and 2010 (Price and Rafael Soriano). Between Baker (31), Díaz (34), and Rasmussen (30), three Rays have received All-Star selections at age 30 or older for the second time, joining 2021 (right-handed pitcher Andrew Kittredge, 31; infielder Joey Wendle, 31; and catcher Mike Zunino, 30).

Caminero, Díaz, and Rasmussen all earned their second career All-Star bids, joining Price (four), outfielder Carl Crawford (four), infielder Evan Longoria (three), Archer (two), left-handed pitcher Shane McClanahan (two), infielder Brandon Lowe (two), right-handed pitcher Scott Kazmir (two), infielder/outfielder Ben Zobrist (two) as the only players to receive multiple All-Star selections with the Rays.

Baker, 31, earned his first career All-Star selection, becoming the ninth relief pitcher in Rays history to be named an All-Star and the second over the last 10 seasons (2017-26) along with Kittredge in 2021. The Fort Walton Beach, Fla. product is the sixth Florida-born player and third Florida-born pitcher to earn an All-Star nod with Tampa Bay, joining Zunino in 2021 (Cape Coral), left-handed pitcher Matt Moore in 2013 (Fort Walton Beach), outfielder Matt Joyce in 2011 (Tampa), right-handed pitcher Lance Carter in 2003 (Bradenton), and infielder Fred McGriff in 2000 (Tampa).

Entering tonight’s game, the right-hander has gone 1-0 with a 1.83 ERA (34.1 IP, 7 ER) and 23 saves, two holds, a 0.82 WHIP, 37 strikeouts, and 11 walks over his first 36 appearances. The 23 saves are second most in the majors behind Cleveland’s Cade Smith (26). Among AL relievers with 30.0 innings pitched or more, Baker ranks second in opponent on-base percentage (.220) and third in WHIP, opponent batting average (.143), and opponent OPS (.463). He was acquired from the Baltimore Orioles on July 10, 2025 for a Competitive Balance Round A draft pick (No. 37 overall) in the 2025 First-Year Player Draft.

Caminero, 22, was announced as the AL’s starting third baseman for the second consecutive season and is slated to become the first player in franchise history to start multiple Midsummer Classics. Longoria was voted as the AL’s starting third baseman in both 2010 and 2009, but he did not participate in the latter contest due to an infection on his right ring finger. Caminero is set to become the first third baseman and 14th player in the modern era (since 1900) to start back-to-back All-Star Games in age-22-or-younger seasons (age as of June 30). Since the All-Star Game’s inception in 1933, he is the second primary third baseman to receive multiple All-Star nods in age 22-or-younger seasons, joining Manny Machado (two), the 11th infielder, and the 34th player overall.

The 22-year-old will also represent the Rays during the 2026 T-Mobile Home Run Derby on Monday, July 13. In last year’s Derby, Caminero finished runner-up to Seattle’s Cal Raleigh and launched 44 home runs across three rounds. He was defeated, 18-15, in the final round, falling four home runs shy of becoming the youngest champion in the event’s history. Caminero is set to become the first Ray to participate in the Derby multiple times and is already one of four players to represent Tampa Bay in the competition, joining Randy Arozarena (2023), Carlos Peña (2009), and Longoria (2008).

Entering play tonight, Caminero has batted .288/.376/.557 (93-for-323) with 12 doubles, 25 home runs, 55 RBI, 47 walks, 55 runs scored, and a .934 OPS through 85 games. The AL Player of the Month for June has the second-most total bases in the AL (180), is tied for second in homers, ranks third in OPS, is fourth in slugging percentage, and is tied for fifth in hits and extra-base hits (37). The 25 home runs are second most by a Rays batter before the All-Star break, trailing only José Canseco’s 31 blasts in 1999. He was acquired from Cleveland on Nov. 19, 2021 in exchange for right-handed pitcher Tobias Myers.

Díaz joins Corey Dickerson (2017 starter) as the only primary designated hitters in team history to be named to the Midsummer Classic. Díaz (34), Greg Vaughn (2001, 35), McGriff (36, 2000), and Canseco (1999, 34) are the only Rays position players to be named All-Stars in an age-34-or-older season.

The current AL batting leader, Díaz has slashed .325/.408/.495 (101-for-311) with 15 doubles, one triple, 12 home runs, 53 RBI, 37 walks, 46 runs scored, one stolen base, and a .904 OPS over 82 games entering play tonight. The Sagua la Grande, Cuba native is tied for the AL lead in hits, ranks third in on-base percentage, and is sixth in OPS. He was acquired from Cleveland along with right-handed pitcher Cole Sulser in a three-team trade with the Seattle Mariners on Dec. 13, 2018.

The reigning AL Pitcher of the Month, Rasmussen earned his second straight All-Star nod, joining McClanahan (2022-23) and Price (2010-12) as the only Rays pitchers to be selected in consecutive seasons. Rasmussen, Price, McClanahan, Archer, and Kazmir are the only Rays pitchers to earn multiple All-Star selections in their careers, with Rasmussen and Archer representing the only two right-handers in that group. 

Entering his outing tonight, Rasmussen has gone 10-5 with a 2.45 ERA (92.0 IP, 25 ER) a 0.87 WHIP, 94 strikeouts, and 16 walks over 16 starts, 10 of which were quality. The right-hander paces the AL in WHIP, opponent average (.191), opponent on-base percentage (.236), and opponent OPS (.532) while ranking second in ERA and opponent slugging percentage (.296). He recorded a 0.61 WHIP over five starts in June, lowest in a single June by any pitcher with 30.0 innings pitched or more during the month in the modern era (since 1900). The right-hander was acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers on May 21, 2021 along with right-handed pitcher J.P. Feyereisen in exchange for infielder Willy Adames and right-handed pitcher Trevor Richards on May 21, 2021

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Eagles Lose Jacob MacDonald To Capitals As Offseason Turnover Reaches A New Level

For Colorado Eagles fans, the turnover in Loveland this offseason is starting to feel less like roster tweaks and more like a full reset — and now another familiar name is gone from the blue line.

The Washington Capitals have signed veteran defenseman Jacob MacDonald to a one-year, two-way contract, ending his second stint with the Eagles. The deal was announced by Capitals senior vice president and general manager Chris Patrick.

For Colorado, it's the latest in a string of departures that has quietly stripped away much of the core that helped power a deep Calder Cup Playoff run just a season ago.

Head coach Mark Letestu, who guided the Eagles to the Western Conference Final in his first year behind the bench, was poached by the Vegas Golden Knights to join their staff as an assistant coach. On the back end, Jack Ahcan departed on a two-year, two-way deal with the Nashville Predators, taking one of Colorado’s most reliable puck-moving defensemen with him. Up front, veteran forward T.J. Tynan, a long-time fixture across multiple stints in the organization, also moved on, signing with the Springfield Thunderbirds.

Now MacDonald joins that list — and in some ways, his exit hits differently.

At 33, he was one of the most productive offensive defensemen the AHL has seen in the modern era, and was still producing when healthy.

In an injury-shortened 2025-26 season with the Eagles, MacDonald still managed 12 points (4 goals, 8 assists) in just 17 regular-season games. He added two more points in 17 playoff appearances as Colorado pushed all the way to the Western Conference Final.

But it’s his body of work that sets him apart.

MacDonald ranks seventh all-time among AHL defensemen in goals with 103, a rare milestone for a blueliner. His peak came in 2024-25, when he put together one of the most dominant seasons by a defenseman in league history. He won the Eddie Shore Award as the AHL’s top defenseman after scoring a league-record 31 goals from the blue line and finishing with 55 points to lead all AHL defensemen.

He was just as dangerous on special teams. 13 of his goals came on the power play — the most among AHL defensemen — and he tied for the league lead with five game-winning goals from the back end. That season earned him First Team AHL All-Star honors and a selection to the All-Star Classic.

Across his AHL career, MacDonald has played 357 games and recorded 260 points (103 goals, 157 assists) with Springfield, Albany, Binghamton, San Jose, and Colorado. A significant portion of that production came on the power play, where he’s totaled 134 points.

His production has shown up everywhere he’s gone. In 2017-18 with Binghamton, he led all AHL defensemen with 55 points and earned First Team All-Star honors. In Colorado during the shortened 2019-20 season, he again led all defensemen in goals with 16 and was named a Second Team All-Star.

He also brings NHL experience, appearing in 135 games with the Florida Panthers, Colorado Avalanche, and San Jose Sharks, recording 27 points (10 goals, 17 assists). In the AHL postseason, he’s appeared in 35 Calder Cup Playoff games with 11 points.

MacDonald’s path has been anything but linear. Undrafted out of Cornell, he began his pro career in the ECHL with the Elmira Jackals before carving out a long, productive career as one of the most consistent offensive defensemen in the league.

Now, as he moves on to the Capitals organization, the Eagles are left to piece things back together. Not just after losing a high-end scoring defenseman — but after watching another key part of a once-promising core walk out the door in what has become a defining offseason of change.

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There’s A Bit of Pacioretty In Canadiens’ Prospect Hage

The Montreal Canadiens are known for being protective of their players. It’s not because the media want to speak to a particular player or prospect that they’ll get to speak to them. We had prime examples of that when Patrik Laine joined the organization or when Jakub Dobes said he wouldn’t understand if he were sent down to the Laval Rocket last season. So when development camp came around, mere days after Jeff Gorton intrigued a lot of people when he said that summer is long and that plenty of things could happen and could make Michael Hage reconsider his decision to go back to school, it wasn’t a given that the Habs would make the exciting prospect field questions, but they did. That was the right call.

After Gorton insinuated the door was still open for Hage to join the Habs this season, it was obvious that the youngster would be grilled about that possibility and the reasons which motivated him to make that call. Despite being only 20 years old, the youngster spoke with calm and eloquence, making it clear that it wasn’t a decision he had made in the heat of the moment but one he had really thought through.

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Essentially, the young man believes he still has things to improve before making the jump to the NHL, and he wants to help Michigan win a national championship. It’s admirable that he has the maturity to prioritize those things over the temptation to turn pro and maximize his earnings earlier, because the sooner you get through your ELC contract, the sooner you can sign a big-money deal. To see Hage prioritize his development rather than choose to get to the dollar bags quicker shouldn’t be all that surprising, really. Kent Hughes has made it clear that the Canadiens, when they draft a player, want to draft character players. Players who will want to be part of a team and work toward one objective: winning, not toward maximum earnings.

When Hage committed to Michigan, he did it to win there, and last year that didn’t happen. The high ankle sprain he suffered threw a spanner in the works, and he couldn’t play as much or as well as he would have had he been healthy for the Frozen Four. At the same time, when he joins the Canadiens, he wants to be the best player he can be, and in that sense, he reminds me of former Habs captain Max Pacioretty.

Back in 2009, Pacioretty had raised more than a few eyebrows in town when he declared in November that his development would be best served with first-line, full minutes with the Hamilton Bulldogs rather than by playing part-time, fourth-line minutes with the Canadiens. The Habs had still called him up, and after 52 games in which he put up only 14 points, they sent him back down to Hamilton, where he was really given a chance to blossom. There’s nothing wrong with an athlete wanting to improve and to be as good as they can be when they make the jump to the NHL. Last season, the American-born winger was a special assistant to coach Brandon Naurato at Michigan, where Hage is playing. I’m not implying that he swayed Hage’s decision; the young man is clearly mature enough to make up his own mind, just highlighting the fact that patience can be a virtue. Given that the Habs’ brass are advocating for fans to be patient with them as they try to keep improving the team by any means possible, they can hardly be mad at Hage for asking the same of them.

Hage wants to be a center in the NHL, and he knows there are still things he needs to work on to do that. He mentioned he wants to get better at carrying the puck up ice, making the players around him better, taking those big faceoffs in the dying moments of a game, being a better player on the defensive side, and, of course, being better when playing without the puck.  Sure, he could work on that in the NHL, and he will no doubt continue working on them when he does turn pro, but it’s wise to keep working on those things at the NCAA level. When he takes that next step, the level of difficulty will be much higher, and the NHL is not a development league.

Not so long ago, the Canadiens were in full rebuilding mode and cared very little about results; they focused heavily on development, but that's no longer the case. Now, Montreal wants to win; their core players have all committed long-term to the team, leaving money on the table, and they want to keep making the playoffs and improve. There’s nothing wrong with Hage wanting to be as good a player as he can be when he joins them; that’s not a selfish move on his part, far from it. Just as Pacioretty once did, Hage knows what he feels is best for him right now, and seeing him stick to his guns is a testament to his commitment to being the best player he can be; that should be seen as good news for the Canadiens.

Follow Karine on X @KarineHains Bluesky @karinehains.bsky.social and Threads @karinehains.  

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GameThread: Detroit Tigers vs. Texas Rangers, 3:30 p.m.

Jul 4, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; Detroit Tigers left fielder Riley Greene (31) points to the dugout after hitting a single against the Texas Rangers during the eighth inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Detroit Tigers (39-50) vs. Texas Rangers (45-44)

Time/Place: 3:30 p.m., Globe Life Field
SB Nation Site:Lone Star Ball
Media: Peacock, Tigers Radio Network
Pitching Matchup: RHP Casey Mize (3-5, 2.63 ERA) vs. RHP Kumar Rocker (2-6, 3.83 ERA)

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7/5 Gamethread: Giants @ Rockies

Tyler Mahle standing on the mound before a pitch.
PHOENIX, AZ - JUNE 29: Tyler Mahle #54 of the San Francisco Giants pitches during the game between the San Francisco Giants and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on Monday, June 29, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Zach Gardner/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

It’s series finale time, with the San Francisco Giants concluding their six-game road trip by finishing business with the Colorado Rockies. If you’re sad to see the Rockies go, well, don’t worry … they’ll be in San Francisco on Thursday!

Taking the mound for the finale is right-hander Tyler Mahle, who makes his 14th start of the year. The veteran is 1-8 on the season, with a 5.67 ERA, a 4.83 FIP, and 64 strikeouts to 29 walks in 66.2 innings. He gave up four runs in 4.1 innings against the Arizona Diamondbacks in his last start.

For the Rockies, it’s righty Tanner Gordon, who makes his 11th appearance and fourth start of the year. The 28-year old is 0-2 with a 6.69 ERA, a 4.18 FIP, and 39 strikeouts to eight walks in 40.1 innings. He gave up five runs in as many innings against the Miami Marlins in his last game.

Enjoy the baseball, everyone.

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Game #89

Who: San Francisco Giants vs. Colorado Rockies

Where: Coors Field, Denver, Colorado

When: 1:00 p.m. PT

Regional broadcast: NBC Sports Bay Area

National broadcast: Peacock

Radio: KNBR 680 AM/104.5 FM, KSFN 1510 AM

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D-backs vs. Brewers Discussion

Today’s Lineups

BREWERSDIAMONDBACKS
Brice Turang – 2BKetel Marte – DH
Jackson Chourio – LFGeraldo Perdomo – SS
Christian Yelich – DHCorbin Carroll – RF
Andrew Vaughn – 1BGabriel Moreno – C
Jake Bauers – RFLourdes Gurriel – LF
Garrett Mitchell – CFIldemaro Vargas – 2B
Gary Sanchez – CTim Tawa – 3B
David Hamilton – 3BPavin Smith – 1B
Joey Ortiz – SSTommy Troy – CF
Brandon Sproat – RHPE. Rodriguez – LHP

Roster moves

The Arizona Diamondbacks made the following roster moves. The D-backs’ 40-man roster is at 40.

  • Recalled from Triple-A Reno: INF/OF Tim Tawa
  • Optioned to Triple-A Reno following last night’s game: INF LuJames Groover

And right into the line-up goes Tawa… at third-base? A position where he has made one previous start in his 107 major-league appearances. All told, only 266 professional innings at the hot corner for Tim, with 85 or so over the last couple of seasons. So let’s hope this works out.

Yesterday was Paul Sewald’s 20th save of the season. He’s the first Arizona pitcher to reach that mark before the All-Star break since Brad Boxberger in 2018, who had 24 saves in the first half. With eight games still left to play, another couple could quite possibly be in Paul’s wheelhouse. If he does record two more saves, it will leave Sewald behind only Boxberger and Jose Valverde (26 in 2007). It has been a while since we have had a “reliable” closer (and I’ll get to those quotes in a bit). In this decade so far, never mind twenty saves, the only D-backs with more than ten saves before the break were Mark Melancon in 2022, and Sewald in 2024, his previous time here – both men had 13.

However, there’s no doubt that Sewald has been lucky. He has allowed runs in eight of his 35 appearances, but has saved 20 of his 21 opportunities. Last night was a case in point, allowing a solo home-run. Indeed, he has conceded four runs over his last three save situations and innings. Fortunately, the lead he was handed in each was exactly large enough to allow him to exit with an eventual one-run win and save. Had he entered in them with a one-run lead to start with, he’d have blown three consecutive chances. We would then likely be having a very different conversation about Sewald, leading up to the All-Star break.

Paul currently sits sixth in the majors for saves. But at 4.50, he is the only man in the top ten with an ERA even at four. The average across the other nine closers is just 2.05, less than half of Sewald’s figure. His FIP and xFIP are also the highest in the group, so that doesn’t make the picture any brighter. xERA, a stat based on quality of contact, does improve Paul’s number by more than a run, dropping him to 3.39. That’s better than MLB saves leader Cade Smith of Cleveland, who has 26 saves and an xERA of 3.62. We’d better hope Sewald can stay away from barrels, and continue doing such a masterful job of pitching to the scoreboard.

Public service announcement: today’s game is on Peacock.

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Avalanche development camp observations

DOVE VALLEY, COLORADO- JULY 2: Francesco Dell'Elce (56) skates during the Colorado Avalanche's on-ice Development Camp at Family Sports Center in Dove Valley, Colorado on July 2, 2025. (Photo by RJ Sangosti/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images) | Denver Post via Getty Images

Long before the summer ends, there was a glimpse at the current generation of Colorado Avalanche prospects at Family Sports Center this past week. It was three days of practices, the first two in smaller groups and then on the third day Jared Bednar and his staff ran a NHL-style practice with the full group participating.

Arguably the top prospect for the Avalanche in attendance was the newly drafted Beckett Hamilton. The 74th overall pick flashed some individual skill you’d expect for someone taken early in the third round and was one of my top three standouts from the practices. The right handed center has a lot of tools to offer including precise puck handling in traffic, playmaking with good vision, is a volume shooter with a heavy shot and good on his edges. Watching him put a couple plays in sequence together offers an idea of what a well-rounded player Hamilton could be at the next level. As one of the few Avalanche prospects not heading to the NCAA and returning to the CHL this fall, he’s expected to join the Avalanche for NHL training camp in September.

Jake Fisher was my second standout as he really showed the maturity he’s gained in his game through two years playing at DU. There was a polish and poise to his game as well as that consistency and nose for the net, which speaks to his readiness to reach the next level. Drafted in the fourth round in 2024, Fisher is 21-years-old currently and wouldn’t look out of place on the Eagles right now so it will be interesting to see when he decides he’s ready to turn pro.

The third standout from development camp was defenseman Francesco Dell’Elce, who in particular put on a show the third day in the joint practice. He’s gained some confidence and comfort in the process over the last year and was able to show his goal scoring ability the whole morning. Dell’Elce has always reminded of a left handed Malinski but as he begins to round out his game it’s now even more evident. The 2025 third rounder is a good transition player with speed and likes to shoot the puck as well. As he’s heading into his junior year at UMass, perhaps Dell’Elce is not too far off from a pro contract as well.

The rest of the 2026 Avalanche draft class which were in attendance included the two fifth round defenseman Cole Tuminaro and Teddy Lechner. Both have size and are right shots but other than that their games couldn’t be more opposite. Tuminaro has the reputation of being a tough customer and heavy hitter but in this setting with little game action, he didn’t have much opportunity to bring the thunder. I liked that he was able to show other parts of his skill set, and while raw, there were glimpses of speed, puck handling and offense generation that makes him a more interesting prospect than just the token big strong guy in the system. Lechner showed he’s a much more cerebral type and kept up with the group well considering he was drafted just out of high school.

Other prospects of note who were present at development camp was one in Christian Humphreys. He certainly looked confident coming off his Memorial Cup win and was trying to flash a lot of offensive skill. Defenseman Linus Funck had a little more laid back approach but scored on a slap shot in the shootout, which is always fun.

It was an intriguing group of goaltenders with the newly drafted Tobias Tvrznik and Alexandre Raymond on hand. So was 2024 fifth round pick Louka Cloutier who had an outstanding year at Boston College. All the goalies did well but the one who turned heads the most was the newly signed undrafted free agent Nikita Novosyolov. He might impact the organization more than was perceived when he signed.

On the needs some work end of the spectrum was a trio of defenseman. First, the fact that KHL Nikita Ishimnikov was in attendance at the camp was a surprise because he is not signed to the Avalanche nor is expected to be anytime soon. Still, he took his time this year to partake in this annual organizational activity. At first his smooth skating and puck handling were evident but the skating in transition and play with teammates could use some improvement.

Fellow prospect Tory Pitner has been hampered with injuries and only played in six games with the Pioneers in the last year and it showed as his game now needs to get up to speed. Likewise for Chris Romaine who has only played in 27 games over two seasons at Ohio State, which is probably why he’s transferring to Maine next season.

The Avalanche announced that the next time the prospects are scheduled to hit the ice will be at the annual Rookie Tournament, which will be held in San Jose this year. Colorado is expected to play two games at the showcase on September 12th and 13th. It is highly likely that a day of rookie camp practice will be held in Denver on Friday, September 11th. All details including roster will be released much closer to the event.

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CB Bucknor, Laz Diaz among MLB umpires to retire after 2026 season

Editor's note: Read MLB insider Bob Nightengale's full Sunday column here

As MLB continues to adjust to an ABS landscape, its umpiring ranks will be a little thinner after this season.

According to USA TODAY's Bob Nightengale, seven MLB umpires have informed the league they will be accepting a buyout offer and retiring after the 2026 season. Among them are CB Bucknor and Laz Diaz, alongside Brian O’Nora, Lance Barksdale, Marvin Hudson, Tony Randazzo and Andy Fletcher.

REQUIRED READING: Jacob Misiorowski's All-Star Game dream might come down to weather

It will cap off a 30-year career for Bucknor, who started by working in the National League in 1996 and has worked both the AL and NL since 2000. Diaz has been umpiring since 1999 when he stared in the American League and has worked both leagues since 2000.

The latter had a fun moment with ABS earlier in the year, when Royals catcher Salvador Perez successfully challenged two calls in a row and Diaz good-naturedly stared him down following the next ball call, which well outside the zone.

As noted by Nightengale, this small exodus of umpires may open the door for Jen Pawol as the first woman to be a full-time MLB umpire. Pawol has previously umpired games at the pro level.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: CB Bucknor, Laz Diaz among MLB umpires to retire after 2026 season

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Cavs final report card: Donovan Mitchell – Inconsistent playoff run sours great regular season

CLEVELAND, OH - MAY 23: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers dribbles the ball during the game against the New York Knicks during Game Three of the Eastern Conference Finals on May 23, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

This was a complicated season for Donovan Mitchell. The Cleveland Cavaliers aren’t in a position to make a deep playoff run if Mitchell doesn’t carry them through a turbulent regular season. Simultaneously, the disappointing four-game sweep in the Eastern Conference Finals can be laid more at the feet of Mitchell than anyone else on the roster.

Regular Season Stats

  • 27.9 points
  • 5.7 assists
  • 4.5 rebounds
  • 48.3% FG
  • 36.4% 3PT FG
  • 86.5% FT

Mitchell held the Cavs together when their roster was decimated by injuries during the regular season. His efficient scoring and energy were a godsend for a team that was in desperate need of both most nights.

This past season was Mitchell’s second-highest scoring output and his second-highest efficiency. Further implementation and perfection of the short mid-range floater — in addition to his usual scoring output — allowed him to increase production without sacrificing efficiency. Mitchell converted 55% of his looks in the short midrange (four to 14 feet from the basket), putting him in the 95th percentile for scoring guards from that zone.

The increased usage in the short midrange was part of a season-long plan to keep wear and tear off his body. In previous years, he was more of a downhill finisher who initiated contact at the rim to draw fouls and get to the line. This past season, he got the shot off before contact, allowing him to play 70 games (his second-highest since being traded to Cleveland) and the entire postseason.

This was important because the Cavs as a team went as Mitchell did throughout the regular season. Cleveland was 22-6 when Mitchell played and scored 31 or more points. That record got better the more he scored. When Mitchell put up 35 or more points, his team was an outstanding 14-1.

More importantly, it was Mitchell’s off-the-court leadership that kept the team afloat when they could’ve gone completely off the rails.

“He kept this thing together,” head coach Kenny Atkinson said after their Game 7 win over the Detroit Pistons. “When things weren’t going great, he was the beacon, the light, his leadership carried us on the court. … And when things weren’t going great, he was the person everyone looked to his positivity. I would have said this even if we lost.”

The postseason proved to be a different story.

Mitchell has long been an efficient and productive playoff scorer, even though his teams had never advanced out of the second round before this past season.

The 2025 series against the Indiana Pacers is a good example of this. Mitchell contributed 34.2 points per game, but that wasn’t enough to carry the team over the finish line, considering the injuries and struggles everyone else was going through. It’s difficult to point a finger at Mitchell when his teammates weren’t living up to expectations.

It was easier to blame Mitchell this past postseason run. Mitchell’s scoring was more inconsistent than normal during this playoff run against rangey wing-heavy defensive teams like the Toronto Raptors and Pistons. He failed to eclipse 25 points in nine of his 18 postseason appearances. For context, he achieved this in six out of nine appearances in 2025 and in seven out of 10 games in 2024.

This is important because the regular-season trend of the Cavs performing well if Mitchell did continued in the playoffs. Cleveland was 4-2 in postseason games when Mitchell scored 30 or more points, and were 4-8 when he scored less. This included going 1-3 when he registered 20 or fewer points.

The lack of consistent scoring highlighted the other shortcomings in Mitchell’s game, particularly with his playmaking for others. He wasn’t able to get teammates involved, and when he wasn’t scoring, the offense was mostly stuck in neutral. This is why Cleveland’s offense was 11 points worse with him on the floor in the postseason compared to when he was off.

Assists aren’t necessarily the most accurate way to determine whether someone is creating for others, but they can be instructive. Mitchell averaged 5.7 assists in the regular season. He only exceeded that average once in 18 playoff games.

This coincided with Mitchell’s passes made per game and potential assists dropping. He averaged 41.7 passes per game in the regular season, and just 34.6 in the playoffs. His potential assists went from 11.1 per game in the regular season to 7.6 in the postseason.

The frustrating part of this is that when Mitchell made a concerted effort to get others involved, it led to tremendous team and individual success.

Mitchell made it a point to get the bigs involved in Game 7 against the Pistons. He had a playoff-high eight assists in that game, with all but one of those helpers going to either Evan Mobley or Jarrett Allen. The willingness to make those passes opened up the offense for himself and his teammates, resulting in a lopsided 125-94 road elimination victory.

Mitchell’s team advanced to the conference finals for the first time in his career, but it felt like many of these wins were despite Mitchell’s efforts, not because of them. That was a first for his Cleveland tenure and was in stark contrast with Jalen Brunson’s postseason run with the New York Knicks.

The two undersized scoring guards often find themselves in similar places in the NBA player rankings and have similar archetypes. The difference between the two this past playoffs was Brunson’s willingness to move the ball and compete defensively.

Brunson consistently took what the defense gave him. This led to 14 assists in Game 2 against Cleveland because the Cavs consistently double-teamed him. This caused Cleveland to adjust away from that strategy in the final two games of the series, which allowed him to attack one-on-one mismatches.

At the risk of belaboring the point too much, this is also seen in Brunson’s passing numbers. Brunson made 63.6 passes per game in the regular season with 11.7 potential assists per game. Those numbers didn’t dip much in the playoffs as Brunson posted 63.1 passes per playoff game with an average of 10.3 potential assists.

It’s fair to point out that Brunson is the point guard of the Knicks, while Mitchell isn’t. However, if you’re in the 99th percentile for usage in the regular season and 100th percentile in the playoffs — as Mitchell is — the point guard designation doesn’t matter all that much. In the NBA, whoever has the ball in their hand needs to be able to act as a facilitator if they’re going to optimize the offense. And with Mitchell occupying that many possessions, he needs to do a better job of helping his teammates.

The shorcomings Mitchell’s games aren’t skill-related. He has the tools to be a great passer (and defender). The question is whether he wants to improve his game the way he needs to in order to help his team more in the playoffs next season, regardless of how different the roster might look.

The difference between the regular season and playoffs makes it difficult to grade Mitchell’s year. On one hand, the Cavs aren’t in a position to even make a playoff run if it weren’t for his consistent play on a nightly basis. On the other hand, his shortcomings directly led to Cleveland not being able to put away Toronto and Detroit as early as they should’ve, which contributed to the one-sided loss to New York.

I’m going to lean more negative than I’d like in this situation. The playoffs are all that matter for someone in Mitchell’s position. And that is where he fell short most.

Grade: C

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Padres unable to take advantage of stable pitching as skid hits eight games

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JULY 04: Griffin Canning #17 of the San Diego Padres pitches during the second inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on July 04, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ryan Sirius Sun/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The San Diego Padres have been unable to buy a win. Despite starter Griffin Canning surrendering just one run, the Friars couldn’t get anything on the board against Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The Los Angeles Dodgers’ ace went seven scoreless innings before the bullpen pitched two more to complete the shutout. San Diego managed just four hits in the game, struggling to make headway against L.A.

They’re now one game away from back-to-back sweeps. The Padres just hit eight games straight in their current losing streak. It’s the longest streak the Friars have had since their 2013 season. San Diego must find a way to win today’s game, otherwise the season may be over at the halfway point.

Taking the mound

Emmet Sheehan (LAD) v. JP Sears (SD)

Sheehan hasn’t been the most inspiring pitcher for Los Angeles. He owns a 5.08 ERA on the season and has racked up just 81 strikeouts. That said, he pitched well against San Diego last week. Sheehan twirled five one-run innings against the Friars.

He’s struggled with command, surrendering 22 walks for a 1.27 WHIP through 72 2/3 innings. San Diego will need to take advantage of any mistakes Sheehan makes in order to stave off the sweep versus the rival Dodgers. If not, the Padres will have a tough time putting runs on the board.

It’s Sears’ third start in a Padres uniform this season. He’s been inconsistent but has undeniably good stuff. Sears pitched well in Petco Park against the Atlanta Braves but struggled in Wrigley Field versus the Chicago Cubs. That’s likely due to Sears being a fly-ball pitcher. He induces a lot of hard contact, and the wind at Wrigley resulted in Sears surrendering six runs to the Cubs.

Tonight, he’ll need to perform much better to bring San Diego a win. Dodger Stadium has traditionally been known as a pitcher-friendly ballpark, which should help Sears to induce fly outs. That said, Los Angeles could take advantage and launch some home runs out of the yard. Hopefully, the former turns out to be the case.

Batter up!

The Friars don’t have a ton of historical success against Sheehan. That said, the right-hander has struggled this season. If San Diego is going to put a stop to their losing streak, now is the time. The lineup was looking solid until last night. That’s somewhat admissible since they were facing Yamamoto, but getting shut out didn’t help matters.

  1. Fernando Tatis Jr., RF
  2. Jake Cronenworth, 2B
  3. Manny Machado, 3B
  4. Gavin Sheets, DH
  5. Ty France, 1B
  6. Xander Bogaerts, SS
  7. Jackson Merrill, CF
  8. Samad Taylor, LF
  9. Luis Campusano, C

Tatis was the only solid hitter in last night’s game. He went 2-for-4 from the leadoff spot and was the only batter not to strike out against the Dodgers’ pitching staff. Tatis has been one of the few consistent hitters for San Diego despite a slow start. Hopefully, that production can continue.

Relief corps

The Friars’ bullpen has looked more rested lately, but that hasn’t helped the Padres get a win. Wandy Peralta opened the game for Canning before Kyle Hart and Mason Miller took over. Miller only pitched because he hasn’t since Monday night against Chicago. He surrendered a run, raising his ERA to 1.01 on the season.

That leaves Alek Jacob, Ron Marinaccio, Yuki Matsui, Adrian Morejon and Bradgley Rodriguez for the Padres to turn to. Miller will also be available if San Diego has a lead in the ninth. He threw just 13 pitches to get through the bottom of the eighth inning last night.

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Sal Stewart, Chase Burns to represent Cincinnati Reds in MLB All Star Game

CINCINNATI, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 20: Sal Stewart #43 of the Cincinnati Reds celebrates with teammate Chase Burns #26 during a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs at Great American Ball Park on September 20, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It’s not uncommon for the Cincinnati Reds to have a pair of representatives in Major League Baseball’s annual All Star Game in July. Frankly, it’s become both common and expected for them to do just that, particularly with a fireballing starting pitcher drafted 2nd overall with high expectations and with a position player lauded for his unmatched skill.

We aren’t talking about Hunter Greene and Elly De La Cruz on this occasion, though. After both missed significant time during the first half of the 2026 season, neither will be making a return trip to the ASG this time around (barring Elly being called upon as a late injury replacement). Instead, the Reds will be sending a pair of outstanding younger players to the game in their stead.

Each of Chase Burns and Sal Stewart have been selected to represent the Reds in the game a week from Tuesday in Philadelphia, the two making their debuts in such an affair. They mark two of the 26 first-timers selected to the respective rosters of the American League and National Leagues, and each is very deserving in their own right.

Stewart entered play on Sunday with 60 ribbies to his credit, which is tied for 7th most in all of Major League Baseball. He’s also smashed 17 homers,swiped 11 bags, played each of 1B, 3B, and 2B, and owns an impressive .348 wOBA and 114 OPS+. The former 1st round draftee and top prospect has flashed his excellent eye at the plate with above-average marks in terms of walk-rate (11.7%) and K-rate (21.7%), and has seemed immediately as-advertised since the moment he became a big leaguer.

Burns, on the other hand, has emerged as simply one of the most unstoppable forces on the mound on the planet so far this season. He entered Sunday with 4.3 bWAR, which was second only to Philadelphia’s Cristopher Sanchez in the game, and owns a 2.40 ERA, 1.08 wHIP, and impressive 10.7 K/9 through 97.2 IP so far as Cincinnati’s resident ace so far in 2026.

Congrats to both, and here’s to this being the first of many appearances for them!

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Mets call up Guillermo Zuñiga, option Joey Gerber to Triple-A

BRADENTON, FL - MARCH 02: Guillermo Zuniga #66 of Team Colombia poses for a photo during the Team Colombia photo day at Pirate City on Monday, March 2, 2026 in Bradenton, Florida. (Photo by Harrison Barden/WBCI/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

Earlier today, the Mets called up right-handed reliever Guillermo Zuñiga to join the bullpen. Zuñiga will wear number 46 for New York. To make room on the roster, the team sent Joey Gerber back to Triple-A.

The Mets signed Zuñiga to a minor league deal back in May. The right-hander last pitched at the major league level for the Angels in 2024, where he posted a 5.09 ERA in 17 2/3 innings. He also pitched for the Cardinals in 2023, where he allowed one earned run on two hits over two innings. He pitched for Colombia in the WBC this year and allowed four earned runs on five hits over one inning of work in two outings. He owns a 6.23 ERA in 4 1/3 innings for Syracuse and a 1.93 ERA in 9 1/3 innings for Binghamton prior to that.

Gerber started the eighth inning of last night’s 14-3 loss and allowed a three-run home run to Austin Riley. In 8 1/3 innings for New York across three different stints with the club, he has a 4.32 ERA and a 4.19 FIP, with eight strikeouts in 8 1/3 innings. Prior to last night’s effort, he had allowed just one earned run across his previous six appearances for the Mets.

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What a Miles Bridges extension could look like for the Suns

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - APRIL 14: Miles Bridges #0 of the Charlotte Hornets plays against the Miami Heat during their game at Spectrum Center on April 14, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) | Getty Images

When the Phoenix Suns acquired Miles Bridges, a plethora of questions entered my mind. And one of the first was whether or not they would extend him. He is entering the final year of his contract at $22.8 million, so the possibility existed that Phoenix moved off the $29 million owed to Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale to save money in the short term while creating more financial flexibility moving forward. But when I saw that the Suns attached their unprotected 2033 first-round pick to make the transaction work, my thinking changed.

I don’t believe it would be responsible to attach an asset that valuable simply to move off money. That leads me to believe the Suns have a longer-term vision for Bridges, which got me thinking about two questions. What would an extension look like, and when should Phoenix offer it?

My opinion? This isn’t a decision that should be rushed. Bridges becomes eligible for an extension on July 14, but eligibility doesn’t mean the organization needs to immediately put a contract in front of him. The reasonable and responsible way to navigate this is to wait and see. How does Bridges fit within the system Phoenix is building? How does he respond to his teammates? More importantly, how does he look on the court alongside them?

For all the numbers and analytics you can gather, the one thing that remains difficult to quantify is chemistry. The Suns should give themselves time to determine whether that chemistry exists between Bridges and the team they’re building. If it does, give him the contract. If it doesn’t, start thinking about an exit strategy.

The Suns don’t have to be in a rush because there are two options relative to a Miles Bridges extension that currently exist. The first is if they opt to sign him within six months of the trade. Seeing as the trade becomes official tomorrow, July 6, that would put the six-month mark at January 6, 2027.

That gives Phoenix plenty of time to execute the strategy laid out above and evaluate how Bridges fits within the confines of this roster. They can see how he plays alongside Devin Booker and Jalen Green, how he responds to Jordan Ott’s system, and whether the chemistry exists to justify a long-term commitment.

If the Suns opt to extend Bridges within that six-month window, they would be limited by the extend-and-trade rules. Essentially, the maximum amount Phoenix could offer him would begin at 120% of his previous $22.8 million salary, with 5% raises in each additional season and no more than four total seasons, including the current year.

So what does that look like financially? The new deal would be three years, with a maximum of $86.3 million, structured as such:

SeasonSalary
2026-27$22,826,087
2027-28$27,391,304
2028-29$28,760,87
2029-30$30,130,435
Extension Total$86,282,609

Here is how it would look on the Suns’ five-year cap sheet:

If the Suns opt to wait, Miles Bridges could become eligible for a larger extension.

Once that six-month restriction passes, post-January 6, if you will, Phoenix could offer him a standard veteran extension. This is the deal that provides Bridges with more long-term security and comes with a potentially higher price tag. The standard extension can begin at up to 140% of the final year of his current contract with 8% annual raises.

How does that look on the cap sheet? Four years, $143.2 million.

SeasonSalary
2026-27$22,826,087
2027-28$31,956,522
2028-29$34,513,044
2029-30$37,069,565
2030-31$39,626,087
Extension Total$143,165,218

And the cap sheet, where Bridges finds himself alone as the only player under contract in the 2023-31 season:

What is alarming about that number in both scenarios is the Suns’ total cap figure for the 2027-28 season. Yes, the salary cap will increase, along with the luxury tax and apron thresholds, but Phoenix would still be committing a significant amount of money to the roster. And all of this is without a Dillon Brooks extension, which could tack on another $25 million to the cap sheet.

Both of those contract structures represent the maximum amount Phoenix could offer. The Suns could offer Bridges less than 120% of his current salary in the three-year scenario or less than 140% once the six-month restriction passes. I’m providing the maximum values simply to illustrate the high-end possibilities and establish the ceiling of what a potential extension could look like.

It all depends on how the Suns believe Bridges aligns with their future. I wouldn’t be surprised if Phoenix ultimately takes the swing and signs him to one of those extensions. Why? Because the timelines align pretty well with the current path of the organization.

The Suns have young talent they’re in the process of developing, and those players can continue to grow alongside this current era of Suns basketball. Rasheer Fleming is the obvious player to watch as it pertains to a Bridges extension because he plays the same position at the four. We know injuries will occur, opportunities will arise for Fleming to earn playing time, and ultimately it comes down to how well he develops when those opportunities present themselves.

There is also a world in which the Suns opt not to extend Dillon Brooks, something they have yet to do, and Miles Bridges eventually moves to small forward while Fleming takes over as the starting power forward. Theoretical? Absolutely. But it’s a possibility nonetheless.

If the Suns were to extend Bridges for three years, Rasheer Fleming would be 25 years old when that contract expires. Fleming will also become eligible for a rookie extension next summer, even though he remains under contract through the summer of 2029 if the Suns exercise his team option in the summer of 2028. That gives Phoenix time to evaluate Fleming’s development while maintaining stability at the position with Bridges.

Then there is the money timeline. Devin Booker is under contract through 2030, the same timeframe in which the dead money finally comes off the Suns’ cap sheet. Extending Miles Bridges would align with that timeline.

Between now and 2030, the Suns have first-round draft picks. They might not be the most valuable first-round picks, but they do have ammunition in the proverbial draft gun to continue adding young players and prospects to the organization. That gives Phoenix multiple swings at development during the same timeframe in which they have NBA starting-caliber players attempting to remain competitive.

Why does that matter? Because there is no benefit to losing for the Suns over the next four years. They don’t control their own draft capital, so there is no reward for mediocrity. The best-case scenario for Phoenix is to continue fielding a competitive team that showcases the identity and culture the organization desires while winning basketball games. That environment also allows young players to earn minutes rather than having them gifted. For players who aren’t lottery picks, I believe that’s the best way to develop.

We should know in the coming weeks what the Phoenix Suns’ strategy is as it pertains to Miles Bridges’ contract. If July 14 arrives and they offer him the three-year extension, don’t be surprised.

While I believe the organization should be prudent and see how Bridges fits within everything the Suns have developed, they did give up that unprotected 2033 first-round pick. They most likely did so with a contract extension in mind. If they do extend him, the hope is that Phoenix doesn’t go all the way to the maximum 120% of his previous salary. The Suns have done an outstanding job this offseason bringing back their players while getting them on appropriate discounts. We’ll see if Brian Gregory can showcase those contract negotiation skills once again when it comes to Miles Bridges.

The other thing to remember, regardless of the length or value of the extension Bridges might receive, is that nothing is permanent. Giving him a contract now doesn’t mean the Suns couldn’t move off of it at some point down the road. If Rasheer Fleming pops as a player, Bridges naturally becomes more expendable.

Granted, we don’t know what the market for Bridges would look like at that exact time or what circumstances might lead to a trade. But if this offseason has taught us anything, it’s that almost any contract can be traded. I never thought Paul George would be moved given his production and the two years, $110 million remaining on his contract, but the NBA continues to find ways to surprise us.

So whenever that Bridges extension comes, it isn’t the end of the world or some permanent declaration about the future of the franchise. It’s simply where the Suns are now.

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Astros vs. Rays Game Discussion: 7/5/2026

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JULY 04: Yordan Alvarez #44 of the Houston Astros hits a two run home run in the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Daikin Park on July 04, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) | Getty Images

TODAY’S GAME: The Houston Astros (44-47) will conclude their six-game homestand today with another rubber game, this time opposite the top team in the AL, the Tampa Bay Rays (52-44).

RHP Peter Lambert (6-5, 3.51 ERA) will get the start for Houston as he looks to secure the series win opposite the Rays, who will start an opener in RHP Mason Englert (0-1, 3.96 ERA).

RIDING THE LAMBO: Today’s starter RHP Peter Lambert, who was a minor league free agent signing this offseason, has posted a 4-1 record in his last seven starts dating back to May 24, which ties him for fourth in the AL in wins in that span.

Lambert pitched last year for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows in the NPB, posting a 3.98 ERA (55ER/124.1IP) with 111 strikeouts in 23 appearances in Japan.

SERIES-LY SPEAKING: With a win today, the Astros would win the series, which would secure them six series victories in their last seven chances. Prior to the Astros losing two of three to the Twins earlier this week, the club had won five straight series from June 12-28, their longest streak in 2026.

WINNING THE CLOSE CALLS: The Astros are 9-5 in one-run games and 20-11 in two-run games. Each of the Astros last eight wins and 13 of their last 14 victories have come by two-or-fewer runs.

GET ‘EM EARLY: The Astros lead the AL in 1st inning runs with 63 runs scored in their 91 games. Overall, the Astros rank fifth in the American League in runs scored (411), while the Rays check in ranking seventh in the AL with 396 runs scored.

LAST NIGHT’S W: Trailing 6-2 early, the Astros rallied back for a 10-8 win over the Rays which ended on a walkoff homer by DH Yordan Alvarez (3×4, 2HR, 6RBI) in the 9th. 2B Jose Altuve (2×3, 3R) and C Yainer Diaz (1×4, HR, 2RBI) chipped in on the offensive side. LHP Josh Hader (0ER/1IP) pitched a scoreless 9th for his 3rd win of the season.

WALK-OFF FIREWORKS: DH Yordan Alvarez hit his second career regular season walk-off homer last night, with the other also coming on the Fourth of July in 2022 vs. KC. He is the first player in MLB history with two career walk-off homers on July 4.

FIREWORKS ON THE 4TH: The Astros have won on the Fourth of July for nine consecutive seasons (since 2016), which is the longest active streak in the Majors. Per Elias, only three other teams in Major League history have won nine consecutive game on July 4th, the Indians (13 straight, 1916-1923), the White Sox (14 straight, 1934-1941) and the Pirates (9 straight, 1901-1905).

TODAY’S TELECAST: Peacock and the NBC network will televise every game across Major League Baseball today, including the Astros-Rays game from Houston. Todd Kalas, Doug Waechter, and Julia Morales will be on the call for Peacock today.

ALL-STAR ALVAREZ: Major League Baseball announced yesterday that DH Yordan Alvarez was voted by the fans as the starting designated hitter for the American League All-Star team. This marks the fourth All-Star selection for Alvarez (2022-24, 2026) and the second time that he has been voted as a starter (also in 2024).

MVP-CALIBER: DH Yordan Alvarez has had a torrid first half to his season, currently leading all of baseball in OPS (1.078), OBP (.433), SLG (.645), RBI (67), and total bases (207). Additionally, he ranks first in the AL in extra-base hits (45), first in homers (29), first in hits (104), first in runs (62), second in batting average (.324), and fourth in walks (59).

THE LONG BALL LIST: DH Yordan Alvarez has hit 199 career home runs, needing just one homer to become the sixth player in franchise history to reach the 200-homer plateau.

All-time Homers in Astros History

1. Jeff Bagwell: 449

2. Lance Berkman: 326

3. Craig Biggio: 291

4. Jose Altuve: 263

5. Jimmy Wynn: 223

6. Yordan Alvarez: 199

PEN PALS: Since May 15 the Astros are 27-19 thanks in part to their bullpen, which has posted the lowest ERA in the AL in that span at 2.63 (51ER/174.1P). Since that date, that group has been led by LHP Josh Hader (0.64 ERA), LHP Bryan King (0.89 ERA), LHP Steven Okert (1.57 ERA) and RHP AJ Blubaugh (1.78 ERA).

WHAT A RELIEF: LHP Josh Hader is 3-0 with eight saves (in eight chances) and a 0.64 ERA (1ER/14IP) in 14 appearances. He has 22 strikeouts in his 14.0 innings with a .045 (2×44) opponent average and a 0.57 WHIP. Hader has not allowed a hit in seven consecutive appearances (7IP since June 21).

OUT ON ASSIGNMENT: The Astros have three starters on minor league rehab assignments:

• RHP Ronel Blanco (rt. elbow surgery) last started on Wednesday for Double A Corpus Christi at NW Arkansas (2ER/4.1IP), tossing 60 pitches (45 strikes). He is expected to make his next rehab start on Tuesday.

• RHP Lance McCullers Jr. (rt. shoulder inflammation) last started on Wednesday for Triple A Sugar Land at OKC (1ER/4IP), tossing 60 pitches (41 strikes). He is expected to make his next rehab start on Tuesday.

• RHP Hayden Wesneski (rt. elbow surgery) began a minor league rehab assignment on Tuesday for the FCL Astros (0ER/3IP), tossing 25 pitches. He is expected to start today for Corpus Christi.

TODAY IN ASTROS HISTORY: 1985 – In a 4-2 win over Montreal, OF José Cruz drives in two runs to set what was then a franchise record for career RBI with 783. He would finish his Astros career with 942 RBI, which currently ranks fourth in club history, behind 1B Jeff Bagwell (1529), 2B Craig Biggio (1175) and 1B Lance Berkman (1090). 2B Jose Altuve ranks fifth all time on that list with 911 RBI.

Game Info

Game Date/Time: Sunday, July 5, 2:30 p.m. CT

Location: Daikin Park, Houston, TX

TV: Peacock

Radio: KBME 790 AM & 94.5 FM HD2; TUDN 102.9 FM HD2 (Spanish)

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Game Thread: How many hot dogs is a safe and normal amount for someone to eat in a day?

ANAHEIM, CA - JUNE 14: Ryan Vilade #26 of the Tampa Bay Rays looks on during the game against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on August 14, 2026 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | Getty Images

Go Rays!

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