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Mariners Spring Training 2026, Game #17

SURPRISE, ARIZONA - MARCH 6: J.P. Crawford #3 of the Seattle Mariners at bat during a Spring Training game against the Texas Rangers at Surprise Stadium on March 6, 2026 in Surprise, Arizona. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images) | Getty Images

We’re back, and so is J.P. Crawford.

The Mariners play the Diamondbacks in another rousing round of Spring baseball. Crawford is in the lineup and playing shortstop for the first time this Spring, after a slower start than usual while battling shoulder issues. Ryan Bliss and Brendan Donovan flank him on either side of the infield. Luke Raley gets another starter in center field, which is increasingly becoming a thing. Rob Refsnyder is in right and Victor Robles is at DH.

Bryan Woo is on the mound for his third start of the Spring. I expect he’ll work a bit deeper than last time, and probably exit around the fourth inning, as he continues to ramp up.

Game information

Game time: 1:10 PT

TV: No

Radio: 710 AM Seattle Sports, the Seattle Sports app, or Gameday

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ST Game 18: Texas Rangers at San Diego Padres

PEORIA, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 22: Randy Vasquez #98 of the San Diego Padres delivers a pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers during a spring training game at Peoria Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Peoria, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Texas Rangers at San Diego Padres, March 8, 2026, 1:10 p.m. PST

Watch: Padres.TV

Location: Peoria Sports Complex – Peoria, AZ

Listen: 97.3 The Fan

Please remember our Game Day thread guidelines.

  • Don’t troll in your comments; create conversation rather than destroying it
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  • Out of respect to broadcast partners who have paid to carry the game, no mentions of “alternative” (read: illegal) viewing methods are allowed in our threads

GB community, this is your thread for today’s game. Enjoy!

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Colorado Rockies spring training game no. 17 thread: Kyle Freeland vs. Jedisxson Paez

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA - MARCH 04: Starting pitcher Kyle Freeland #21 of the Colorado Rockies throws a warm-up pitch during the first inning of the MLB exhibition game against Team United States at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick on March 04, 2026 in Scottsdale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) | Getty Images

In his first spring training action of 2026, Kyle Freeland faced the daunting task of pitching against Team USA in an exhibition game on March 4. He gave up a solo homer to Aaron Judge in a two-hit, one-strikeout performance in one inning.

Today, Freeland and the Rockies (8-6-1) will take part in his first Cactus League action against the White Sox (10-7) at Camelback Ranch. The Rockies are 5-2 on the road this spring vs. 3-5-1, including the showdown vs. Team USA, at Salt River Fields.

Today’s game represents a rematch of a Feb. 23 showdown where the Rockies beat the White Sox 5-4. Chicago will send Jedisxson Paez to the mound to start the game. The 22-year-old RHP will be making his third spring appearance. He’s posted a 23.14 ERA in 2 1/3 innings over two starts with six earned runs, six hits, including one homer, three strikeouts and one walk. Former Rockie Drew Romo will be starting at catcher for the White Sox.

On Sunday, four pitchers combined to throw five scoreless innings and Kyle Karros and Tyler Freeman each had two-hit performances in the Rockies 4-4 tie with Cleveland. Even though it’s only spring training, the Rockies offense has been much improved thus far. The Rockies rank among all Major League teams this Spring in: on-base percentage (.381, T-1st), home runs (23, T-4th), average (.287, 3rd), HBP (14, T-2nd), slugging (.492, 3rd), OPS (.871, 3rd), runs scored (98, 5th), RBI (91, 6th) and total bases (254, 6th).

Earlier on Monday, the Rockies released a new motto for the 2026 campaign: “New era. At altitude. We are here for the climb.”

First Pitch: 2:05 p.m. MDT

TV: None

Radio: 850 AM/94.1 FM KOA Rockies Radio Network (1:55 p.m. pregame)

Lineups:

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Spring Training Game Thread XV

SURPRISE, ARIZONA - MARCH 3: Ryan Bergert #38 of the Kansas City Royals gets set to throw a pitch during a World Baseball Classic exhibition game against Team Cuba at Surprise Stadium on March 3, 2026 in Surprise, Arizona. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images) | Getty Images

After taking a loss to the White Sox yesterday, the Royals will play another division rival in the Cleveland Guardians today. We’ll get another look at Ryan Bergert, whose appearances thus far in Spring Training have been relatively quiet. He’s thrown only three innings of one-hit ball.

Cleveland sends Parker Messick to start. Messick is another one of those “I’ve never heard of this guy” pitchers that Cleveland seems to manufacture every year. He threw 39.2 innings across seven MLB starts last season and accumulated 1.0 fWAR with a solid 2.72 ERA and 2.98 FIP. He was the 54th overall pick in 2022 by Cleveland.

With the WBC going on, we’re definitely going to see some guys in the lineups today.

The game starts at 3:05pm US Central. You can listen on KWOD 1660.

Lineups:

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Seven Days of Sun, Week 20: The Phoenix Suns right the net rating ship

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MARCH 08: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns reacts after scoring against the Charlotte Hornets during the second half of the NBA game at Mortgage Matchup Center on March 08, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Hornets 111-99. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Week 20 arrived at the perfect time for the Phoenix Suns.

This is a team that had been searching for traction. The numbers tell the story. Phoenix had not posted a positive net rating in five weeks. The last time it happened was Week 15 when they sat at +2.8. Since then, the stretch looked rough. Week 16 at -0.1. Week 17 at -28.7. Week 18 at -14.4. Week 19 at -9.1.

Injuries played a large role in that slide. The roster has taken hits across the rotation, forcing Phoenix to lean heavily on younger players and redistribute minutes to guys now operating outside their usual roles.

So yes, Week 20 was needed.

This was a stretch where the Suns realistically could have finished 4–0. Had it not been for a lethargic performance against the Chicago Bulls, Phoenix would have walked away undefeated. That is basketball. Some nights, you steal a game that had no business landing in the win column. Other nights, you drop one that felt secure. Over the long arc of a season, the truth usually reveals itself. Good teams rise. Bad teams fade.

And even with the injuries piling up and the rotations shifting almost nightly, the Suns continue to show that they belong in the group of teams capable of rising.

The Suns sit at 37–27 following their Week 20 performance. They remain two games back of the sixth seed in the Western Conference, although they are only three games away from the third seed. With 18 games remaining on the schedule, the standings can shift quickly. All it takes is one team catching fire and another team cooling off for the picture to change.

That creates an interesting opportunity for Phoenix. The conversation can begin drifting away from the Play-In discussion and toward the postseason itself. That is where the real intrigue begins, when you start looking up the standings rather than over your shoulder. The Suns are positioned well enough to think that way. The teams currently sitting in eighth through tenth place are clustered tightly together. The Golden State Warriors hold a one-game lead on the Los Angeles Clippers, while the Clippers sit one game ahead of the Portland Trail Blazers.

Phoenix, meanwhile, stands 4.5 games clear of that group. That cushion provides breathing room, although the real opportunity lies ahead of them. With a strong final stretch, the Suns can shift the focus away from Play-In scenarios and toward the question that matters far more in the long run. Who might they face when the postseason begins?

Standings aside, this was a refreshing week for Phoenix. The best-case scenario continues to quietly unfold. Injuries are never something a team hopes for, although they have opened the door for something valuable. Opportunity. Opportunity to evaluate the youth movement that Phoenix has been slowly trying to cultivate. And this past week, the young players responded.

Khaman Maluach averaged 17.4 minutes across his three appearances. In that time, he scored 3.3 points on 62.5% shooting, grabbed 5.7 rebounds, and averaged 2.3 blocks per game. The stat line is modest offensively, although the defensive impact and the activity around the rim continue to stand out.

Then there is Rasheer Fleming.

In four games this week, he averaged 8.8 points on 65% shooting, including 60% from beyond the arc. That number carries weight when you realize he attempted 15 three-pointers during that stretch. He also added four rebounds per game while playing 15.8 minutes a night.

So Week 20 became a productive one for Phoenix. The Suns finished 3–1, the rookies received real run, and they rewarded the opportunity with strong play. Phoenix still has work to do. The climb out of the Play-In conversation will require continued effort over the final stretch of the season. The hope is that reinforcements begin returning soon. Jordan Goodwin could be back this week. Mark Williams may be another week or two away. Dillon Brooks still appears to be three to four weeks from returning.

March might represent the turning point. The Suns are trying to regain health, stabilize the rotation, and continue developing their young players at the same time. If those paths meet at the right moment, the final stretch of the season could become very interesting for Phoenix.

Week 20 Record: 3-1

@ Sacramento Kings, W, 114-103

  • Possession Differential: +1.6
  • Turnover Differential: +5
  • Offensive Rebounding Differential: +8

The Suns looked like they were trying to jumpstart themselves, and ultimately they had the ability to do so. Phoenix outscored Sacramento 68-45 over the second and third quarters, and that was enough to get the win.

vs. Chicago Bulls, L, 105-103

  • Possession Differential: +2.6
  • Turnover Differential: +2
  • Offensive Rebounding Differential: +5

Same script as the game against the Kings, but the Suns couldn’t get jump-started. They had a late run, but it was too little, too late. It wasn’t the worst loss of the season, but it may be the most lethargic.

vs. New Orleans Pelicans, W, 118-116

  • Possession Differential: +1.2
  • Turnover Differential: -2
  • Offensive Rebounding Differential: -1

Phoenix was in control the majority of the game, but the Pelicans made it quite uncomfortable in the end. It took a record number of three-pointers attempted — 58 by the Suns — to beat New Orleans by 2 points. Time will tell whether that is concerning.

vs. Charlotte Hornets, W, 111-99

  • Possession Differential: -6.2
  • Turnover Differential: -5
  • Offensive Rebounding Differential: -3

Well, this was a nice little surprise, wasn’t it? The Suns closed out the week with a win over one of the hottest teams in the NBA. How? 3o points and 10 assists from Devin Booker, 24 points from both Collin Gillespie and Jalen Green, and a 16-point performance from rookie Rasheer Fleming. And same damn good defense.

Inside the Possession Game

  • Weekly Possession Differential: -0.8
  • Weekly Turnover Differential: 0
  • Offensive Rebounding Differential: +6
  • Year-to-Date Over/Under .500: +10

The first thing I notice when looking at this week’s graph is that pink line. The Suns are sitting 10 games over .500 to close out the week. It is only the second time this season we have finished a week that high, with Week 15 being the only other instance.

Take a look at that pink line. It hasn’t dipped below the .500 mark since Week 2. This team has been at .500 or better since November 8. They spent a total of 7 games under the water this entire season. I hope we appreciate that. I really do.

We are talking about a team that Vegas pegged for 30.5 wins. We are talking about a franchise that spent 37 games looking up at the .500 mark just one season ago. The scars from those years don’t just vanish, but this is how you heal them. We are focused on a postseason push, and that is exactly where our energy should be.

But I want to pause and appreciate the fact that we are even in this position. We have a team that is fighting to win. We have a roster that isn’t finding creative ways to lose anymore. There is hope. There is progression. There is a core.

The Suns finally started cleaning up the glass this week, and the results speak for themselves. A 3-1 stretch is exactly the kind of “get right” week this team needed. While the possession game slipped a bit, you have to look at this Phoenix defense to see the real story.

Even with the roster currently held together by bandages and spare parts, this group posted a 109.9 defensive rating over the last four games. When you couple that grit with the way the ball is moving, it’s clear something is clicking. Their 68.8% assist percentage was 7th 7th-best in the league this week. It is proof that Jordan Ott’s system is cerebral and, more importantly, transferable. It doesn’t matter who is on the floor, the identity remains.

Of course, it didn’t hurt that the schedule-makers tossed the Kings, Bulls, and Pelicans our way. You play who is in front of you, but beating up on the basement dwellers is a requirement for any team with playoff ambitions.

Week 21 Preview

And so begins the road trip.

The Phoenix Suns hit the road for a 10-day stretch that includes six games and two back-to-backs. Week 21 features the first three stops along that journey, thankfully without the back-to-backs arriving yet. It starts tomorrow night when Phoenix travels to face the Milwaukee Bucks.

Milwaukee is a team floating somewhere in the middle of the Eastern Conference sea. They have not played well for long stretches this season, which explains why they currently sit in 11th place and outside the Play-In picture looking up. Giannis Antetokounmpo is back on the floor for them, which always changes the temperature of a game. How long he continues playing before the organization considers shutting him down is something only time will answer.

The Bucks rank in the bottom third of the league in offensive rating, defensive rating, and net rating. On paper, that suggests an opportunity for Phoenix. Still, Milwaukee carries size across its lineup, and size has a way of bothering the Suns when it begins to crowd the paint.

Next on the schedule are the Indiana Pacers, who currently hold the worst record in the Eastern Conference. Phoenix handled Indiana earlier this season, winning by 35 points back in November. Since the All-Star break, the Pacers have not recorded a win and appear to be navigating a reset year while Tyrese Haliburton works through an Achilles injury.

The third stop sends Phoenix north to face the Toronto Raptors. If you are looking for an Eastern Conference team that resembles the Suns in some ways, Toronto fits that description. The Raptors have exceeded expectations this season and present a roster that values ball movement and care with possessions. They move the ball well, they limit mistakes, and they defend at a high level. Toronto currently sits with the eighth-best defensive rating in the NBA.

In other words, this stretch of the trip offers three very different challenges. Milwaukee brings size. Indiana brings opportunity. Toronto brings discipline.

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Spring Training: Athletics vs. Reds Game Thread

Jack Perkins gets the nod today in the Spring Training matchup against the Reds at Goodyear Ballpark in Arizona. | Diamond Images/Getty Images

The Athletics take on the Cincinnati Reds this afternoon at Goodyear Ballpark in Goodyear, Arizona. The A’s come into this game fresh off a split squad sweep of the Angels and Dodgers yesterday.

Jack Perkins will take the mound to get the A’s started today. So far this spring he’s 1-2 in two starts with a 6.75 ERA. He’s only gone 2.2 innings, so the numbers are statistically meaningless. But I imagine Mark Kotsay will try to stretch him out a bit more today.  Perkins will face off against 24-year-old Rhett Lowder for the Reds.  Lowder is a 2023 first round draft pick who has pitched five innings this spring in both a start and relieving appearance. He has a 1.80 ERA and seven strikeouts so far.

Lowder will go face this lineup for Mark Kotsay’s Athletics:

Perkins will face this lineup for the Reds today:

Follow the Game:
Listen:
Athletics – A’s Cast, Talk 650 KSTE

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2026 MLB Team Preview Series: Kansas City Royals

SURPRISE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 23: Bobby Witt Jr. #7 of the Kansas City Royals runs up the line during the sixth inning of a Spring Training game against the Chicago Cubs at Surprise Stadium on February 23, 2026 in Surprise, Arizona. (Photo by Mike Christy/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The 2025 Kansas City Royals were not bad. However, they also share a division with the Detroit Tigers (excellent in the first-half of the season) and the Cleveland Guardians (excellent in the second-half), so their 82 wins just weren’t enough to push them into the postseason.

Consider some of the details.

The good? Bobby Witt Jr. (8 fWAR), Maikel Garcia (5.6 fWAR), the pitching staff (3.80 ERA).

The bad? The outfielders couldn’t hit (like, at all, to the tune of a collective 73 wRC+), and the Royals (with the exceptions of Witt Jr. and Garcia) could not steal bases. They were ranked 26th in runs scored, so not good. Having an elite pitching staff and a terrible offense is not a combination known for postseason success. Our colleagues at Royals Review provide a nice recap here. But that’s all in the past, and now it’s time to see what the Royals could manage in 2026.

2025 record: 82-20 (3rd, AL Central)
2026 FanGraphs projection: 81-81 (2nd, AL Central)

The Royals shuffled things around with some modest moves to shore up an already solid team and address some problem spots, trading for Isaac Collins from Milwaukee and signing Lane Thomas away from a division rival in Cleveland on a one-year deal alongside more recently picking up Starling Marte on a $1 million deal to give their aforementioned struggling outfield some options. They traded away their main left-handed reliever Angel Zerpa in the deal for Collins, and to shore back up their bullpen the Royals flipped Jonathan Bowlan for Matt Strahm, a former Royal himself who has blossomed the last few seasons in Philadelphia.

On top of the roster changes, they also remodeled their stadium a bit, moving in the walls of Kauffman Stadium. The K has been a slighty-above average stadium offensively over the last three years, but it’s been one of the worst parks to hit one out of — now the corners will be nine-to-ten feet closer before tapering off to an unchanged center field, perhaps aiding their offense enough to kickstart them out of mediocrity.

Looking at the Royals’ infield, any team with Bobby Witt Jr. at short is already at an advantage. This year, he’ll be working with an increasingly elite Maikel Garcia as well as a servicable Vinnie Pasquantino. What happens at second remains a question: Will the Royals start Jonathan India there or use Michael Massey? Perhaps Brandon Drury has a bounce back? Stay tuned! Then there’s Salvador Perez, who is not longer young but still effective. Although he will probably give more catching days to Carter Jensen, Perez fits in at first base or DH as well. Extended for two more seasons this winter, the veteran of the clubhouse might have the deal in place to ride out the end of his career.

With Collins in the fold now, Kansas City could plug him into left field while rolling Kyle Isbel out in center and Jac Caglianone in right. Granted, Cags was not especially good in 2025, but he got important experience in his first shot at the majors after excelling in the minors, and his spring training numbers suggest he may be figuring things out.

Marte, as mentioned, was a last-minute addition, signed just a couple of weeks ago. Though often injured, Marte will bring some much-needed power and contact to the Royals (assuming he can stay on the field) and should toggle between the outfield and DH. Add into that Lane Thomas and Kameron Misner, and this looks like a better — if not awesome — outfield lineup.

The rotation remains the strongest part of this Royals core. Although ace Cole Ragans missed much of 2025 to injury, when he was in the rotation, he was good (as in 14.3 K/9 and a 2.42 FIP in 13 starts). Now he needs to replicate that for an entire season. Kris Bubic picked up his first All-Star nod last year as he moved back into the rotation, and the combination of Seth Lugo, Michael Wacha, and Noah Cameron form a fearsome top to bottom rotation that offers no easy days for opposing lineups.

In addition to pure pitching skill, the Royals rotation started working as, essentially, a “pitching workshop” when Wacha joined the team. The rotation works closely together, observing each other’s bullpens and debriefing when they leave games. Lugo and Wacha are seasoned veterans helping mentor a group of youngsters. Plus, there’s more depth in the wings. Assuming everyone stays healthy, if the Royals struggle in 2026, it won’t be because of the rotation.

The bullpen remains reliable to round out the pitching staff. Carlos Estévez will return as the closer after an All-Star campaign, tying his career-best with a 2.45 ERA and working the second-most innings of his career. Add to that Lucas Erceg, John Schneider, Bailey Falter, and Alex Lange, and it’s a solid group. Strahm returns to the team that drafted him as a revamped pitcher, now relying on a mix of fastballs having incorporated a cutter and sinker to great effect, and Nick Mears and Alex Lange can provide further depth.

Will that be enough for them to jump back into contention for their division? It’s the AL Central, so who knows — the division could go any number of ways, as what appeared to be a runaway title for the Tigers slipped away on the final day of the season last year. Kansas City was in the running in 2024, taking a shot at the Yankees in the ALDS, but 2025 just didn’t break their way. The 2026 Kansas City Royals are trying to improve on the margins with hopes it’s enough to get them back to the postseason. If Bobby Witt Jr and Cole Ragans play to their potential, their odds are good.

More Pinstripe Alley MLB team season previews can be found here.

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How to watch New York Knicks vs LA Clippers: TV, live stream info for tonight's game

Tonight's Peacock NBA Monday doubleheader tips off at 7:30 PM ET, when the Denver Nuggets take on the Oklahoma City Thunder in a rematch of the Western Conference Semifinals. Then, at 10:00 PM, it's the New York Knicks vs LA Clippers at Intuit Dome. Live coverage begins at 6:30 PM with NBA Showtime on NBC and Peacock.

See below for additional information on how to watch each game and follow all of the NBA action on NBCSN and Peacock. Peacock will feature 100 regular-season games throughout the course of the 2025-2026 season.

Click here to sign up for Peacock!

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While expected to compete for rotation minutes before the season began, few thought the Celtics center could be this reliable in fantasy basketball.

New York Knicks vs LA Clippers:

Tonight's contest marks the second and final meeting between the Knicks and Clippers this season. New York defeated Los Angeles 123-111 on January 7.

The Knicks are looking to bounce back after a 110-97 loss to the Lakers on Sunday afternoon. Karl-Anthony Towns finished with 25 points and 16 rebounds, while Jalen Brunson added 24.

With 17 regular-season games remaining, New York is currently third in the Eastern Conference, 2.5 games back from the Boston Celtics.

The Clippers have won four of their last 5 games, including a 123-120 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday.

Kawhi Leonard led the team with 28 points. Darius Garland and Bennedict Mathurin both finished with 21 points.

The Clippers are currently in position for the play-in tournament at 9th in the West. They sit 7.5 games back of both the Lakers (5th) and Nuggets (6th) for the final two guaranteed playoff spots.

How to watch New York Knicks vs LA Clippers:

  • When: Monday, March 9
  • Where: Intuit Dome, Inglewood, CA
  • Time: 10:00 PM ET
  • Live Stream: NBCSN and Peacock

What other NBA games are on Peacock tonight?

  • Denver Nuggets vs Oklahoma City Thunder - 7:30 PM ET on NBCSN and Peacock

How to watch the NBA on NBC and Peacock:

Peacock NBA Monday will stream up to three Monday night games each week throughout the regular season. Coast 2 Coast Tuesday presents doubleheaders on Tuesday nights throughout the regular season on NBC and Peacock. On most Tuesdays, an 8 p.m. ET game will be on NBC stations in the Eastern and Central time zones, and an 8 p.m. PT game on NBC stations in the Pacific and often Mountain time zones.

Check local listings each week. Both games will stream live nationwide on Peacock. Sunday Night Basketball coverage will also be available on NBC and Peacock. For a full schedule of the NBA on NBC and Peacock, click here.

How to sign up for Peacock:

Sign up here to watch all of our LIVE sports, sports shows, documentaries, classic matches, and more. You'll also get tons of hit movies and TV shows, Originals, news, 24/7 channels, and current NBC & Bravo hits—Peacock is here for whatever you’re in the mood for.

NBA on NBC 2025-26 Schedule:

Click here to see the full list of NBA games that will air on NBC and Peacock this season.

What devices does Peacock support?

You can enjoy Peacock on a variety of devices. View the full list of supported devices here.

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Utah Jazz vs Golden State Warriors: Preview, injury report, how to watch

The Golden State Warriors travel to Salt Lake City on Monday night to take on a Utah Jazz team dealing with a sickness that’s making its way through the team.

Isaiah Collier has already been listed as out, but now Ace Bailey and Keyonte George are among those on the Jazz roster who are questionable with illness.

The Jazz are 2-10 in their last 10 games, and currently have the fifth worst record in the league, which is the goal for a team that looks to add a top-3 pick to its playoff-ready roster next season.

The Warriors are firmly in the play-in, holding onto the 8-seed with 4.5 games separating them from the No. 7 Suns and 8.5 games away from the No. 11 Grizzlies. They will be without hall of famer Steph Curry on Monday night.

Injury Report

Utah Jazz:

Keyonte George — Questionable (illness)

Ace Bailey — Questionable (illness)

Isaiah Collier — OUT (illness)

Lauri Markkanen — OUT (right hip impingement)

Jaren Jackson Jr. — OUT for season

Jusuf Nurkic — OUT for season

Walker Kessler — OUT for season

Golden State Warriors:

Seth Curry — Probable (left sciatic nerve irritation)

Will Richard — Questionable (right ankle sprain)

Steph Curry — OUT (right patellofemoral; pain syndrome)

Al Horford — OUT (left to injury management)

Moses Moody — OUT (right wrist sprain)

Kristaps Porzingis — OUT (illness management)

Jimmy Butler — OUT for season

How to watch

Where: Delta Center, Salt Lake City, UT

When: 7 p.m. MT

Channel: KJZZ, SEG+

Radio: 97.5 FM 1280 AM

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Highlights: Five Spurs score 19+ in rout of Rockets

SAN ANTONIO, TX -MARCH 8: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs dunks against the Houston Rockets in the first half at Frost Bank Center on March 8, 2026 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Coming off a miraculous comeback win against the Los Angeles Clippers, the Spurs took on the Houston Rockets for their last meeting of the regular season. After a back-and-forth first quarter, the Spurs’ offense exploded, outscoring the Rockets 37-24 in the second. Coming into the third quarter with a 12-point lead, the Spurs’ offense continued to blaze. They continued to have one of their best three-point shooting games of the season, and they led by as much as 27. The Rockets cut into the deficit to only make it a 16-point lead for the silver and black heading into the fourth. Even though the Rockets would try to keep pace, the Spurs’ offense was unstoppable. They led by as much as 30 and ultimately won 145-120.

Victor Wembanyama led the way with 29 points (9-13 FG, 9-10 FT), eight rebounds, four blocks, two steals, and one assist. From the start of the game, Wemby played like he was well rested. Having only played 22 minutes against the Clippers on Friday, the day of rest helped Wemby play 30 minutes and dominate. He shot 69% from the field and 90% from the free-throw line. He also locked down the paint and got deflections that resulted in steals. If Wemby ends up playing 65 games, it is safe to say that he is a lock for Defensive Player of the Year.

W3MBY! The first bucket for both teams comes from a pull-up three in the face of Alperen Sengun!

ARE YOU KIDDING?! Wemby tracks down his own missed three and puts it back up for the and-one!

Here’s another angle!

DO NOT GO IN THERE! Wemby pins Amen Thompson’s shot off the backboard and secures the rebound!

Just throw it up there! De’Aaron Fox crosses halfcourt and immediately lobs it up to Wemby for the alley-oop jam!

DO NOT GO IN THERE PART TWO! Wemby volleyball spikes Tari Eason’s shot in the paint!

W3MBY AT THE BUZZER! Wemby uses the pump fake and one dribble for the halftime buzzer-beating three!

Here’s another angle of the nothing but net buzzer-beater!

ARE YOU KIDDING PART TWO! Reminiscent of opening night against Dallas, Vic drives through the lane through contact for the reverse jam and-one!

How about another alternate angle for your viewing pleasure?

In the NBC postgame interview, Wemby was asked if he ever surprises himself. His answer? “I’m just out there freestylin’.”

Stephon Castle dropped 23 points (7-13 FG, 6-7 FT), five assists, and three rebounds. This is Steph’s first 20+ point game since February 19th against Phoenix. After a rough week shooting from the field, Steph took advantage of mismatches and drove into the paint with patience or took open midranges. He also splashed home three three-pointers. His young role as a two-way player continues to blossom, drawing the assignment of guarding Kevin Durant and taller forwards.

De’Aaron Fox dropped a double-double: 20 points (9-15 FG) and 10 assists to go along with two boards. Fox has been putting up at least 19 points in the last three games, and the last time he dished out double-digit assists was February 4th against OKC. This is also his 7th double-double of the season. Ever since the Pistons game, it seems like Fox has played a more aggressive style, as the playoffs continue to appear closer every game.

ACROBAT! Fox crosses over Sengun and finishes at the rim with a smooth reverse layup!

Another angle? Yes please!

Keldon Johnson dropped 20 points (8-13 FG, 4-7 3PT), two assists, and a rebound. This is KJ’s first 20-point game since February 11th against Golden State. He looked like the 6MOTY KJ Spurs fans have grown accustomed to watching. Shooting 61% from the field and four threes on 57% shooting, KJ could hardly miss. His infectious energy has infiltrated the rest of the rotation, as they have bought into the unselfishness and never-say-die spirit KJ brings to the court every game.

The Beautiful Game. Immaculate Spurs ball movement results in a wide-open KJ trey!

Dylan Harper dropped 19 points (8-12 FG, 3-4 3PT), six assists, and two rebounds. Dyl shot about 67% from the field and 75% from three. 17 of his 19 points came in the first half, as it seemed like he could not miss. Whether it was driving into the lane and finishing with ease or draining open threes, Dyl could not be slowed down. It is such a luxury to have an elite guard rotation where any one of Castle, Fox, or Harper could put up numbers on any given night and also dish out dimes all over the court.

Too fast! Dyl catches the ball in the corner and drives past Dorian Finney-Smith for the athletic one-handed slam!

All in all, this was another statement win by the silver and black. Beating a playoff team in the Rockets three out of four times is no fluke, and this win was the most dominant. The Spurs shot 58% from the field and 51% from three. It is hard to lose when your shooting is this efficient. Now having won 15 of their last 16 games, the Spurs are keeping pace with the OKC Thunder for the one seed. However, they face a tough schedule this week in the Celtics, Nuggets, and Hornets. Nonetheless, a performance that brought the best out of everyone is a great sign, as there is only one month left in the regular season.

Finally, here are the full game highlights.

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NHL power rankings: Which teams aced the trade deadline?

Much has changed since the last USA TODAY Sports NHL power rankings in early February.

There were the Olympics in which the United States picked up its first men's hockey gold medal in 46 years by defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime during the final.

There was a coaching change in Los Angeles, and most importantly, the NHL trade deadline on March 6.

There had been a roster freeze during the Olympics, so it was a rush to get trades done. Big names moved, such as Nazem Kadri, MacKenzie Weegar, Brayden Schenn and John Carlson.

This version of the NHL power rankings recaps trades and hands out grades.

NHL power rankings

Numbers in parentheses reflect the change from the most recent power rankings. Statistics and standings are as of March 8.

1. Colorado Avalanche (0)

They were busy in the leadup to the deadline, adding forward Nicolas Roy and defenseman Brett Kulak. But they saved the best for the last minute, bringing back 2022 Stanley Cup winner Nazem Kadri. They gave up Victor Olofsson, Samuel Girard and draft picks in the deals, but they're deeper down the middle and grittier. Grade: A

2. Dallas Stars (+3)

Tyler Myers, a 6-foot-8 defenseman, is joining 6-foot-7 Lian Bichsel on the blue line. He's a right shot, too. Forward Michael Bunting will help make up for the loss of Tyler Seguin to season-ending knee surgery. Grade: A

3. Minnesota Wild (0)

The Quinn Hughes trade in December was the big one, and he has been a marvel. But Bill Guerin didn't stop there. He added forwards Michael McCarron, Bobby Brink and Nick Foligno (he'll join brother Marcus) and depth defenseman Jeff Petry. Vinnie Hinostroza and prospect David Jiricek were moved out. The Wild's bottom six is better and McCarron kills penalties. Grade: A

4. Carolina Hurricanes (0)

They could have used more center depth (along with the rest of the league), but their only acquisition was tough guy Nicolas Deslauriers. Still the Hurricanes are a threat to reach the Eastern Conference final again. Grade: C

5. Buffalo Sabres (+4)

The Sabres took off after Jarmo Kekalainen replaced Kevyn Adams as general manager, and the new GM rewarded the team with some moves. He added Sam Carrick to help the league's worst faceoff team. He also changed course after Colton Parayko didn't waive his no-trade clause and brought in defensemen Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn, giving the Sabres a physical third pairing. Schenn and fellow newcomer Tanner Pearson are Stanley Cup winners. Grade - B

6. Tampa Bay Lightning (-4)

The Lightning brought back pesky forward Corey Perry, who has a recent habit of getting to the Stanley Cup Final. The Lightning have lost in the first round the past three seasons, so they'll appreciate his presence even if he hasn't won a Cup since 2007. Grade: B-

7. Pittsburgh Penguins (-1)

Their big move was the goalie swap in December. They got out of Tristan Jarry's contract, and Stuart Skinner is doing better than he was in Edmonton. Egor Chinakhov, acquired in December, has been a great addition. Girard hasn't done much since arriving from Colorado and the Penguins also added 6-foot-8 forward Elmer Soderblom. Grade: B+

8. Montreal Canadiens (-1)

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman said the Canadiens were working on something big but weren't able to pull it off. Nothing happened, and the goaltending remains inconsistent and they didn't find a taker for Patrik Laine. Grade: D

9. Detroit Red Wings (-1)

Popular David Perron, recovering from hernia surgery, has returned to the Red Wings. He totaled 41 goals in his two seasons in Detroit. Right-shot defenseman Justin Faulk, acquired from St. Louis, will move into the second pairing. Grade: B+

10. New York Islanders (+2)

They added forward Brayden Schenn, moving out underperforming Jonathan Drouin in the deal. They did the same earlier by moving out Maxim Tsyplakov in the Ondrej Palat deal. Grade: B

11. Boston Bruins (-1)

They were relatively quiet, adding Lukas Reichel. They're sticking with a team that's in a playoff position earlier than expected after last season's sell-off. Grade: B-

12. Anaheim Ducks (+4)

Adding veteran John Carlson was a nice move for a team that appears poised to make it back to the playoffs. If they don't, they'll give their 2027 first-round pick to the Capitals rather than this year's. They also moved out Ryan Strome's $5 million cap hit, which will help with restricted free agents Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier, plus unrestricted free agents Carlson and Radko Gudas, needing new contracts this summer. Grade: B+

13. Columbus Blue Jackets (0)

Conor Garland was a solid deadline pickup, as was Mason Marchment earlier. Chinakhov is thriving since being dealt to Pittsburgh, but he had requested a trade. Grade: B+

14. Utah Mammoth (0)

The team has been beefing up its blue line since moving from Arizona and MacKenzie Weegar is the latest arrival. The right-shot defenseman will fit nicely in the top four. They didn't have to give up Tij Iginla, former Flames standout Jarome Iginla's son, or a first-round pick (three second-rounders instead) to land a player with five years left on his deal. Grade: A-

15. Ottawa Senators (+2)

Forward Warren Foegele had only seven goals in Los Angeles, but scored in his first game in Ottawa. They also traded pending unrestricted free agent Perron. Grade: C

16. Vegas Golden Knights (-5)

They added forward depth and penalty killing at the deadline with Nic Dowd and Cole Smith. Defenseman Rasmus Andersson, acquired earlier, helps replace injured Alex Pietrangelo. They didn't do anything at the deadline to upgrade their goaltending. Grade: B

17. Edmonton Oilers (+1)

They moved out Skinner, who was tremendous or mediocre during two trips to the Stanley Cup Final. Jarry hasn't worked out in Edmonton. GM Stan Bowman gave up a first-round pick to move out disappointing Andrew Mangiapane. They landed Jason Dickinson and Colton Dach in that trade. Connor Murphy, acquired from Chicago in a separate trade, was a good pickup. Grade: C

18. Philadelphia Flyers (+3)

They moved out 5-foot-8 forward Brink, who's a pending free agent with arbitration rights, and brought in 6-foot-4 defenseman Jiricek. Perhaps the Flyers will help with his development. Rasmus Ristolainen was in the rumor mill but didn't move. Grade: D+

19. San Jose Sharks (+5)

Their biggest move was trading for Kiefer Sherwood earlier in the season. GM Mike Grier got him signed to an extension during trade deadline week. He also re-signed goalie Alex Nedeljkovic. Grade: B

20. Seattle Kraken (-5)

The Kraken need more scoring. Bobby McMann, acquired from Toronto, becomes the team's second-leading scorer. They moved on earlier from Marchment, receiving a second- and fourth-round pick after giving up a third- and fourth-rounder to land him in the offseason. Seattle also signed captain Jordan Eberle to an extension. Grade: B

21. Washington Capitals (-2)

It was a tough week for Capitals players as they parted ways with franchise defenseman Carlson, plus Dowd, who had been with Washington since 2018-19. They received a first-round pick for pending UFA Carlson and later dealt for Timothy Liljegren and David Kampf. Not the same. Grade: D+

22. Florida Panthers (+1)

The back-to-back champions' run is all but over because of major injuries. But they wisely held on to their free agents, outside of Petry. If they can get Sergei Bobrovsky and others re-signed, their core remains championship material, assuming they can stay healthy and rest up from three runs to the Final and heavy representation at the 4 Nations Face-Off and Olympics. Grade: B-

23. New Jersey Devils (+3)

They traded Palat, added Nick Bjugstad and held on to Dougie Hamilton. A disappointing season for the Devils, even if Jack Hughes became a national hero for his golden goal at the Olympics.

24. Los Angeles Kings (-2)

The Kings made a huge splash before the Olympic break by trading for Artemi Panarin. Then they lost Kevin Fiala to a broken leg at the Olympics. A slump after the Games cost coach Jim Hiller his job and they traded Foegele and Perry and added Scott Laughton. Grade: B-

25. Toronto Maple Leafs (-5)

The Maple Leafs were sellers during a disappointing season. Toronto got a third-round pick (a second if the Kings make the playoffs) for Laughton after giving up a first-rounder and a prospect to land him at last year's deadline. GM Brad Treliving did get a first-rounder in the Roy trade, plus draft picks for McMann. Grade: D

26. Winnipeg Jets (+3)

The Jets moved out pending UFA defensemen Stanley and Luke Schenn and got promising prospect Izak Rosen as part of the return. They got a seventh-round pick for Pearson. Grade: B

27. Nashville Predators (-2)

The Predators weren't far from a playoff spot when they decided to sell. McCarron, Cole Smith, Bunting and Nick Blankenburg were among those moved, mostly for draft picks. They didn't move Ryan O'Reilly, who had no trade protection. GM Barry Trotz is retiring and left a lot of work for his eventual successor. Grade: D

28. St. Louis Blues (+3)

The St. Louis rumor mill featured most of the core. The trade of Parayko to the Sabres leaked out (the Blues said it wasn't them), and he exercised his right not to waive his no-trade clause. Brayden Schenn and Faulk did move and St. Louis got first-round picks and prospects in those deals. Grade: C+

29. Calgary Flames (-1)

They moved out Kadri, Weegar and Andersson in a rebuild. They added defensemen Olli Maatta and Zach Whitecloud, prospects Jonathan Castagna and Max Curran, plus lots of draft picks. Grade: B+

30. Chicago Blackhawks (-3)

They get a first-round pick in the Dickinson/Dach deal and also moved out Murphy and team captain Foligno. That seems to set the stage to naming Connor Bedard captain next season. He has to sign first. Grade: C

31. New York Rangers (0)

Announcing a pending retool put management at a disadvantage. The return for Artemi Panarin, who had to waive a no-trade clause, was just OK. GM Chris Drury held onto Vincent Trocheck rather than get less than he wanted. Carrick was dealt and they moved out former first-round pick Brennan Othmann. Grade: C-

32. Vancouver Canucks (0)

The return for Quinn Hughes in December (Marco Rossi, Zeev Buium, Liam Ohgren and a first-rounder) will help the team best in the long run. They added more draft picks by moving out Myers, Garland and Kampf. Grade: C

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NHL power rankings, grades for trade deadline moves

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Cactus League Game 15 – Rhett Lowder takes on the A’s

GOODYEAR, ARIZONA - MARCH 4: Rhett Lowder #25 of the Cincinnati Reds, right, and catcher Tyler Stephenson #37 walk in from the bullpen before the World Baseball Classic exhibition game against Team Cuba at Goodyear Ballpark on March 4, 2026 in Goodyear, Arizona. (Photo by Mike Christy/Getty Images) | Getty Images

If it feels to you as if the Cincinnati Reds have hit a bit of a lull this spring, you aren’t alone.

The starting pitching – the bedrock on which this franchise is built – has seen some hiccups of late, chief among them the elbow issue that Hunter Greene is dealing with and the ripple effect that’s had through the entire team. Chase Burns got knocked around just yesterday, Nick Lodolo allowed 8 baserunners (and a Jonathan India homer) in just 3.0 IP over the weekend, and Brady Singer still boasts a 9.00 ERA despite yesterday’s scoreless trio of frames.

Eugenio Suárez is off at the World Baseball Classic, as is top prospect Edwin Arroyo. The event itself has so far been magical to watch, and perhaps that’s taken a lot of the spotlight off what’s going on in Cactus and Grapefruit League play, respective.

There have also been some notable cuts, with Christian Encarnacion-Strand and Chase Petty shipped over to minor league camp just yesterday.

It’s truly the dog days of spring training at the moment. Players are trying to actively get better and into regular season shape without overdoing it in games that don’t matter, trying to perform well while not giving away any of their tips or tweaks or secrets until the games actually matter. Players are also doing their best to simply stay healthy and get to Opening Day at 100%, and sometimes that doesn’t make for the best on-field product when paired with daily exhibition games.

Still, this is a Reds club with ample players trying to prove themselves, and Rhett Lowder is chief among them. He’ll take the mound on Monday afternoon at home in Goodyear opposite the Athletics, and will do so a leader in the clubhouse for one of the opening(s) at the end of the team’s starting rotation. He’s looked brilliant so far this spring, fully removed from the dual injuries that cost him almost all of 2025, and is poised to be a key part of the team from the outset in 2026.

First pitch on Monday is set for 4:05 PM ET, though sadly there is no televised coverage of the game. You can listen in via 1360 WSAI, however.

Here’s how the Reds will line up for the day (just a day removed from split-squad action where everyone in camp played at least a bit).

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Monday Morning Minnesota: The “Alan Roden Hype Machine” Edition

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - AUGUST 14: Alan Roden #19 of the Minnesota Twins bats against the Detroit Tigers in the ninth inning of the game at Target Field on August 14, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The first rule of spring training is not to get too excited about spring training stats. That being said, Alan Roden is maybe making the Louis Varland trade look like a better deal, as he has eight hits in 22 at-bats, with one homer and a steal. For sure, a positive after he finished last season with a .191/.261/.294 slash line with two home runs and one steal in 153 plate appearances. Mick Abel is also doing his best to take the sting out of the Jhoan Duran trade, as through three starts, he has a 39% strikeout rate and a 0% walk rate and has yet to give up a single run through 10 innings. Of course, he did finish last season with a 6.23 ERA and a 1.51 WHIP through 39 innings, so let’s not get too excited. But hope does somewhat spring right now, and we’re going to need all the positivity we can get for this long season.

The Past Week on Twinkie Town:

  • Check out The Feed, where you can add your discussions about the Twins!
  • We’re starting a new segment called Daily Questions! Provide your opinion on the Twins and debate with the community!
  • With spring training underway, game threads are back! Commiserate with your fellow fans as we prepare for Opening Day.
  • Brandon Brooks gives us Vol. 80 of the Rival Roundup.
  • James Fillmore recaps “Stop Making Sense” for the Twinkie Town Movie Night. We only have two more movies left, starting with 42 this Friday.
  • Ben Jones provides his second roster projection of spring training.
  • Apparently, they played baseball in 1926. Zach Koenig has another addition to the Twinkie Town Book Club.
  • After looking at the shortest-tenured Twins in team history, Matt Monitto reminds us of another one-hit wonder in Twins history.
  • We’re onto Round 19 in Zach Koenig’s list of the Greatest Twins Moments and Performances.

Elsewhere in Twins Territory:

In the World of Baseball:

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Blues Recall Pair Of 2023 First-Round Picks From Springfield

All three of the St. Louis Blues first-round picks from the 2023 NHL Draft are now in the NHL.

The Blues recalled forward Otto Stenberg and defenseman Theo Lindstein from Springfield of the American Hockey League on Monday, joining Dalibor Dvorsky.

Dvorsky has spent the majority of the season  in St. Louis, playing in 53 games (15 points; nine goals, six assists), and Stenberg had his first NHL stint in St. Louis prior to the Olympic break playing in 18 games (eight points; one goal, seven assists). 

This will be Lindstein's first call-up and first stint in the NHL having played in 56 games for the Thunderbirds (14 points; six goals, eight assists).

Dvorsky was the No. 10 pick in the draft, Stenberg was the 25th pick and Lindstein was selected at No. 29.

Stenberg has also played in 33 games with Springfield (15 points; four goals, 11 assists).

Rosters may now be unlimited after the NHL Trade Deadline and with the Blues making trades to ship out Brayden Schenn (New York Islanders) and Justin Faulk (Detroit Red Wings), as long as a team is cap-compliant, rosters can be unlimited.

Observations From Blues' 4-0 Win Vs. DucksObservations From Blues' 4-0 Win Vs. DucksTeam continues to build momentum in sweeping road trip of four or more games for third time in franchise history; Hofer gets fifth shutout; Drouin, Holl make immediate impacts; Blues take game over in second perio
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Cavs vs. 76ers: How to watch, odds, and injury report

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 14: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers dribbles the ball during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on January 14, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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 David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Cleveland Cavaliers will look to establish some positive momentum after Sunday’s disappointing loss to the Boston Celtics. Even though they’ll be playing on the second night of a back-to-back, going up against this version of the Philadelphia 76ers should help them.

The Sixers will be without their four best players: Joel Embiid (oblique), Tyrese Maxey (finger), Paul George (suspension), and VJ Edgecombe (back). Meanwhile, the Cavs are expected to have their starting lineup from yesterday available, even though Jarrett Allen (knee) still won’t be available.

We’ll see if the Cavs can take advantage of this.

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Who: Cleveland Cavaliers (39-25) vs. Philadelphia 76ers (34-29)

Where: Rocket Arena – Cleveland, OH

When: Mon. March 9 at 7 PM

TV: FanDuel Sports Network Ohio, FanDuel Sports Network App, NBA League Pass

Point spread: Cavs -13.5

Cavs injury report: Jarrett Allen – OUT (knee), Dean Wade – PROBABLE (ankle), Tyrese Proctor – OUT (quad), Max Strus – OUT (foot), Olivier Sarr – OUT (G League)

76ers injury report: Joel Embiid – OUT (oblique), Paul George – OUT (suspension), Tyrese Maxey – OUT (finger), Johni Broome – OUT (knee), VJ Edgecombe – OUT (back)

Cavs expectedstarting lineup: James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Sam Merrill, Dean Wade, Evan Mobley

76ers expected starting lineup: Cameron Payne, Quintin Grimes, Kelly Oubre, Dominick Barlow, Adem Bona

Previous matchup: The Cavs defeated the 76ers 117-115 on Jan. 16 on a last-second dunk from Evan Mobley.

Here’s a look at both teams’ impact stats via Cleaning the Glass.

Offensive RatingDefensive RatingNet Rating
Cavs117.9 (8th)113.6 (12th)+3.9 (8th)
76ers115.4 (14th)116.1 (17th)-0.7 (19th)

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