Two months after claiming the second national championship in program history, Michigan has found itself in the market for a new men’s basketball coach.
The last coach to leave right after winning the tournament was former Kansas coach Larry Brown, who made a habit of leaping from one spot to the next in his well-traveled career.
Dusty May was not supposed to follow that same path. After a steady building process resulted in one of the best teams in recent NCAA history, the belief coming out of this year’s Final Four in Indianapolis said that May was poised to become one of the faces of college basketball.
Boynton will have this coming season to convince Michigan to give him the full-time job. Looking toward next winter, here’s USA TODAY Sports’ glance at where Michigan could eventually go to permanently fill May’s shoes:
Boynton ran the defense under May — his work helped the Wolverines outscore opponents by nearly 20 points per game — and was the head coach at Oklahoma State from 2017-24. The results were very mixed: OSU won 20 games three times and reached the second round of the tournament in 2021 but went just 119-109 overall and 51-75 in Big 12 play. Still, Boynton has the qualifications and experience to step into the job at a late date and potentially keep the roster intact, or at least strong enough to stay a factor in the Big Ten and Final Four hunt.
Josh Schertz, Saint Louis
The list of outside candidates begins with Schertz, a close friend of May’s and a coach with a similarly prolific up-tempo offensive scheme. His system could be installed fairly seamlessly and mesh well with the Wolverines’ current roster. Schertz has also proven himself by winning 32 games at Indiana State in 2024 and then leading Saint Louis to 29 wins and the second round of this year’s tournament, where the Billikens were bulldozed by Michigan. Schertz could come eventually with May’s recommendation, which might carry weight in the school’s search.
Nate Oats, Alabama
Oats signed a massive extension that links him to Alabama through 2032 and has experienced his share of controversy, most recently this past season with Charles Bediako’s eligibility debate and guard Aden Holloway’s suspension in the wake of felony drug charges. But he’s also won 70% of his games, reached the Final Four, made two Elite Eight trips and advanced out of the tournament’s opening weekend in each of the past four years. He also spent a decade coaching high school basketball in Michigan before being hired as an assistant at Buffalo in 2013. Oats is in a good spot with the Crimson Tide but could be enticed by the opportunity to coach a program with more support and resources.
Billy Donovan
Donovan is currently out of coaching after stepping down from his spot with the Chicago Bulls after the end of the regular season. While he had his share of NBA success, Donovan is best known for the powerhouse he built Florida, where he claimed back-to-back national championships. Despite his time away from the college game, Donovan has essentially been linked to every major NCAA job opening since he left the Gators over a decade ago. Is Michigan the position that would bring him back? May showed how quickly the right coach can make things happen in Ann Arbor. But it’s unknown whether Donovan is interested in navigating the current landscape of college sports.
T.J. Otzelberger, Iowa State
Otzelberger seems very content in Ames, having already declined overtures from more historically relevant programs since kickstarting the Cyclones’ current run in 2022. Since taking over five seasons ago, he’s led Iowa State to three Sweet 16 berths, four 20-win seasons and at least 25 wins in each of the past three years. While Otzelberger’s teams have been more recognized for defensive intensity, he’s proven himself to be malleable enough as a coach to potentially blend in his style with the tempo that defined May’s tenure.
Brian Dutcher, San Diego State
Formerly a longtime Michigan assistant who was on the staff for the 1989 national champions and then spent another 18 years under former Michigan coach Steve Fisher with the Aztecs, Dutcher has won at least 21 games in every season since replacing Fisher in 2017 and led SDSU to the national title game in 2023. A few factors not in Dutcher’s favor are his age — he’ll turn 67 in October — and that SDSU has taken a bit of a recent dip, dropping out in the First Four of the 2025 tournament and missing this year’s bracket altogether.
The Ducks' 2025-26 season has been over for just over a month and with the 2026 NHL Entry Draft just around the corner, it feels like a good time to start recapping this past season for each player in the organization.
Today's edition of 'By the Numbers' will feature players who wore Nos. 51-60 this season.
If you missed the previous edition of 'By the Numbers', you can click here to read it.
Olen Zellweger
Zellweger was a mainstay on the Ducks' blue line up until the tail-end of the regular season, when a couple of defensive shortcomings seemingly put him in head coach Joel Quenneville's doghouse. There was an emphasis on defensive habits, with Zellweger deployed on the penalty kill throughout the season as opposed to the power play, where his skills may have been better utilized.
Tyson Hinds' call-up and subsequent strong play left Zellweger a spectator at the end of the regular season and into the playoffs. He went an entire month without playing in a game before he re-entered the lineup out of necessity for Game 4 of their playoff series against the Vegas Golden Knights. Paired with Ian Moore, he picked up a secondary assist on Moore's game-winning goal while playing mostly sheltered minutes on the bottom pair.
May 14, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks defenseman Olen Zellweger (51) controls the puck past Vegas Golden Knights center Brett Howden (21) during the third period in game six of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
In Game 5, his play earned him more ice time and a promotion to the second defensive pair alongside John Carlson. He then tied the game late in the third period, though the Ducks fell in overtime. He was scoreless in Game 6 but had almost 14 minutes of ice time.
A pending RFA this summer, the Ducks appear to be at a crossroads with both Zellweger and Pavel Mintyukov, who is also an RFA. The two lefties have taken turns showing flashes of what they can become if given the proper ice time and runway. However, neither has been able to do this on a consistent basis just yet. With Jackson LaCombe entrenched as the Ducks' No. 1 on the left-hand side, it's a battle of who will be the No. 2 behind him.
Lucas Pettersson
After splitting time between the HockeyAllsvenskan and the SHL in 2024-25, Pettersson spent most of the past season with Brynäs in the SHL before finishing out the year in the AHL with the San Diego Gulls. He had 20 points in 40 games, primarily playing on the wing. Pettersson was also part of Sweden's gold medal-winning squad at World Juniors, collecting six points in six games.
Drafted as a center in the second round of the 2024 draft, Pettersson may project better as a winger due to his size (5-foot-11) and speed. He is dependable in both zones and has shown that he can contribute offensively off the rush and on the man advantage. He would be a candidate for the penalty kill as well.
As of now, it's unclear whether Pettersson will play for the Gulls in 2025-26 or return to Sweden for another season with Brynäs. The Gulls' forward depth is in flux, with Jan Myšák departed to HV71 in the SHL, Justin Bailey needing a new contract and Nikita Nesterenko and Sam Colangelo expected to be up with the Ducks full-time. If Pettersson does return to Brynäs, it would give him the chance to play either down the middle or on the wing again.
Tarin Smith
Smith was named captain of the Everett Silvertips prior to the start of the 2025-26 WHL season, his fourth full season with the club. He appeared in 60+ games for the third consecutive season, setting a new career high in assists (55) and points (71) as one half of the Silvertips' top defensive pairing.
Unfortunately, his final WHL postseason was cut short due to a dislocated shoulder that he suffered during the Silvertips' first playoff series. He will be out of the sling at the end of June and be able to resume skating in August. November is the targeted date for his full return to the ice, and he'll be doing it in the NCAA after committing to the University of Minnesota this past May.
An offensively-gifted defenseman, Smith was a finalist for the WHL Defenseman of the Year. Continued focus in the defensive zone will be a priority for him as he transitions to the collegiate game and goes up against older and stronger players.
Coulson Pitre
After spending the entire 2024-25 season with the Gulls, Pitre split the 2025-26 season between the AHL and ECHL. He was nearly a point per game player in the ECHL with the Tulsa Oilers (21 in 26 games), but failed to replicate that kind of production with the Gulls, putting up just five points in 25 games.
An upper-body injury that occurred prior to training camp kept Pitre out until almost November. After returning, he was then assigned to Tulsa, where he remained until January, when he was recalled to the Gulls. Pitre spent most of his time with the Gulls in a bottom-6 role, rotating between center and wing. His development has been hampered by injuries and he hasn't been able to carve out a consistent role with the Gulls through two full seasons.
May 14, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks defenseman Olen Zellweger (51) controls the puck past Vegas Golden Knights center Brett Howden (21) during the third period in game six of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Like 2023 second round pick Nico Myatovic, Pitre thrives in a complementary role, forechecking hard, retrieving/recovering pucks and setting up his higher-level teammates. However, it's been difficult for Pitre to find the same level of success at the AHL level that Myatovic has recently started to find.
Health will be paramount for Pitre as he enters the final year of his ELC. He could be in line for a bigger role with the Gulls this upcoming season depending on what moves are made during the summer.
Maxim Massé
Massé had his best season to date in 2025-26, setting career highs across the board. He eclipsed 100 points for the first time in his juniors career and helped lead the Chicoutimi Saguenéens to a QMJHL championship.
After four full seasons in the QMJHL, Massé will be heading to the NCAA to play for UMass. He follows in the footsteps of fellow Ducks prospects Roger McQueen, Alex Blais, Saguenéens teammate Emile Guité and the aforementioned Smith in transitioning from the CHL to the NCAA.
"It's good for the development," Massé said in an interview with THN Anaheim this past February. "We're only playing 30-40 games a season. Gaining some strength in my lower body and upper body, too, and just getting better with my skating. (The Ducks) were supporting me 100% in that."
Improving his skating, in addition to continuing to add strength, has been a focus for Massé since he was drafted by the Ducks in 2024. Playing collegiate hockey will allow him to ply his trade against older and stronger players and provide a bigger challenge than the CHL.
Yegor Sidorov
After a strong rookie season in the AHL in 2024-25 with 34 points in 59 games, Sidorov took a slight step back offensively in 2025-26. He had 29 points in 68 games while finding himself moving up and down the lineup throughout the season.
Scoring goals has never been an issue for Sidorov, who had a prolific juniors career in the WHL with the Saskatoon Blades. The big question was whether he could impact the game in other ways outside of scoring. It appears that he is still trying to find his 'B-game' after a promising start to his pro career. Sidorov was also a healthy scratch for both of the Gulls' Calder Cup Playoffs games against the Colorado Eagles, with players like scrappy forward Cal Burke getting the nod over him.
May 14, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks defenseman Olen Zellweger (51) controls the puck past Vegas Golden Knights center Brett Howden (21) during the third period in game six of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
With a new coaching staff entering the picture, Sidorov could find himself in a more consistent next season. He too is in the final year of his ELC and will likely be part of the group competing for a spot on the NHL roster during training camp, with Troy Terry expected to be out until December after recently undergoing hip impingement surgery.
Sidorov was one of the final training camp cuts last season and if he once again doesn't make the cut, he could at least still be in line for a bigger role with the Gulls. Finding ways to impact the game outside of the scoresheet could help him get that.
Ethan Procyszyn
Procyszyn was a 30-goal scorer for the second consecutive season, also his second season as captain of the North Bay Battalion in the OHL. His points total dipped slightly from his career-high 64 in 2024-25, but he continued to be a driving force for the Battalion in 2025-26.
A gritty, hard-nosed forward, Procyszyn grabs points any way he can and is the true definition of a grinder. His playstyle suits the NHL game quite well, as teams are always looking for players who are willing to go the dirty areas of the ice.
Procyszyn signed his ELC in April following the conclusion of the Battalion's playoff run, though he didn't appear in any games for the Gulls. He'll be able to get his feet wet in the AHL next season as one of the Gulls' depth centers behind captain Ryan Carpenter.
Sasha Pastujov
After a surprise demotion to the ECHL to start the 2024-25 season, Pastujov returned to the AHL with a chip on his shoulder, putting up 45 points in 43 games. He built off of his strong season by leading the Gulls in points (57) in 2025-26 and also finished second on the team in goals (21).
Pastujov is a cerebral player who shows good vision and has a strong shot in his arsenal. Skating has always been the knock on him, an area that he has previously acknowledged needs work. He just completed his third full season as a professional and is a pending RFA. It's likely that he'll be tendered a qualifying offer and should be given a chance to compete for a spot on the NHL roster.
If he isn't able to crack the NHL roster, he'll slot into the Gulls' top-6 and be relied upon as one of their top playmakers.
Tyson Hinds
Another player who went through the rigors of the AHL for a few seasons before finally getting the call to the NHL, Hinds spent most of the 2025-26 season with the Gulls before being called up to the Ducks in April. He appeared in the last six games of the regular season and the first nine games of the Ducks' first playoff run since 2018 before being a healthy scratch for the final three games of the Golden Knights series. This came after logging heavy minutes as part of the Gulls' top defensive pair alongside Tristan Luneau.
May 8, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks defenseman Tyson Hinds (60) plays for the puck against Vegas Golden Knights right wing Pavel Dorofeyev (16) during the first period in game three of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Hinds fits the mold of the modern-day stay-at-home defenseman, a mobile defender who uses his length and skating to take away lanes and knock the puck away. He fared well (for the most part) alongside whoever his defensive partner was and wasn't afraid to activate offensively when the opportunity called for it.
He is a pending RFA and will likely be tendered a qualifying offer. The left side of the Ducks' defense is a bit crowded at the moment, so it's difficult to envision there being a regular spot for Hinds. But he showed that he is ready to be an everyday NHLer and could find a role as the seventh defenseman.
May 15, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners designated hitter Rob Refsnyder (30) reacts after striking out during the ninth inning against the San Diego Padres at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images | Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
In mid-May, I went to a lovely afternoon game against the Padres. With a bowl of curry katsu from Tamari Bar and garlic fries in lap, surely, I thought, nothing could ruin such a pleasant day.
I was right, until the bottom of the eighth inning, when Rob Refsnyder was called to pinch hit for Dominic Canzone against a lefty reliever. A pretty normal decision, given that it is his actual, literal job.
As incensed as if someone had suddenly screamed directly into his ear, the man behind spent the next two minutes screaming directly directly into my ear. “You fucking suck! Rob Refsnyder, you fucking suck! Fuck you! Dan Wilson, are you fucking stupid? You’re worthless!” Never mind that Dan Wilson didn’t make the call, as he was ejected mid-way through the game. Never mind that we were only about 10 rows back from the field and not too far from the batters box, so his words were likely pretty audible.
On that day, Megan and I decided we were going to be big Rob Refsnyder fans. It’s been fun to root for a fellow Asian American and average height king! So, it brings me no joy whatsoever to say that the Refsnyder Era may have run its course. Like the Chicxulub impactor came for the Mesozoic and the dinosaurs, a knee injury and regression to the mean has come for Good Refsnyder.
A situation like this (a painfully underperforming, aging veteran signed to a $6m contract) always threatens to bring out the masses that howl for Jerry Dipoto’s head and that we need to fire Scott Servais NOW to turn this team around!! But, in fairness, criticism of the signing is in order.
True, Refsnyder had the 8th-highest OPS against LHP from 2022-2025 (min 500 PA), ahead of Mookie Betts and right behind Ketel Marte and Jose Altuve, good for a wRC+ of 155 during that time. However, it is also true that over that same time period, he ran a .377 BABIP against lefties and a .348 BABIP against righties. His career BABIP sits around .297, perfectly average, not indicative of some Williams-esque BABIP skill. It doesn’t take a Szymborski to see the cliff looming ahead of the Roadrunner-ing Refsnyder.
What Dipollander couldn’t have predicted, though, was that Refsnyder would suffer a vague but nagging knee injury that would bother him all season. That, plus some bad luck (a .149 BABIP feels a bit karmically heavy-handed here) has made Refsndyer the second worst batter this season by wRC+ (min. 100 PAs), his meager 26 beating out only Ke’Bryan Hayes’ 10 (!?).
Dan Wilson has recently referenced the veteran’s struggles recently in the most Dan Wilson-y way possible – standing by his Guys, vaguely but supportively.
“Every player has been through this at some point. [Refsnyder] continues to make his adjustments…we talk about the process a lot, and the process has been good. He’s getting good pitches to hit, he’s putting the barrel to the ball and he’s hitting the ball at people, and hit the ball on the ground a little bit. But you know, he’s close, and he’s had some big hits for us throughout,” Wilson said. “It’s a matter of trial and error and trying to find the right adjustment, and there’s no question that you know Ref is doing everything he can, and you know it’s coming soon.”
Wilson is never going to talk poorly of his players to the media, as he shouldn’t! It’s what makes him a great leader. But this feels more like Wilson supporting his player as a person more than true organizational faith being placed in Refsnyder turning this around now.
So, like it was for Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton (apparently), it’s time to make a decision. With the Mariners floundering around .500 and a precipitous grasp on the mediocre AL West, the Mariners can ill-afford to keep this roster spot on cruise control. I see two reasonable options here.
Refsnyder takes a phantom/sort of real IL stint. This would give him some time off the knee, which could help him in the medium-term return to at least being serviceable at the plate. In case some rest doesn’t help, the Mariners can take that time to try a couple different options and see who they feel most comfortable with taking those at-bats. A little more time to see Jhonny Pereda, Patrick Wisdom, or Brennen Davis (health permitting) surely couldn’t be worse than what we’ve been seeing from Ref recently.
Skip straight to the second part of option 1 and bid farewell to one of the several and truly Good Guys of recent Mariners history.
I’m inclined to go with option 1 here, as it gives the Mariners some time to kick the can down the road, which typically is a good thing – the more information you can gather before making roster decisions, the better. But something’s gotta give, and with the way Refsnyder has been playing, that roster spot has gotta be given somewhere a little more productive.
Monday's MLB card is loaded with star power, and a few of baseball's biggest bats find themselves in favorable matchups.
Before locking in your MLB player props, here are the hitters I'm targeting to leave their mark tonight.
Best MLB player props today
Player
Pick
Odds
Shohei Ohtani
Over 1.5 total bases
-138
Jake Bauers
Over 1.5 H/R/R
-131
Kyle Stowers
Over 1.5 H/R/R
-124
Shohei Ohtani Over 1.5 total bases (-138)
“Colby, are you backing the power of dad because Shohei Ohtani just had a child?”
What? Now I am.
We back numbers here, folks. Off-field stuff is just a cherry on top. That said, I do love the great one this evening.
The number one rated hitter on Batters-Box today happens to be the Dodgers superstar, who continues to post some of the most delectable elite-rated trends.
In 133 elite road ratings:
Hit: 75.19%
2+ Hits: 33.83%
Home Run: 28.57%
2+ Bases: 59.9%
The great one has been on fire offensively as of late, posting a near 70% elevation rate while producing 77% hard contact and a 31% barrel rate over his last 30 road plate appearances. Over his last 90 at-bats against right-handed pitching, he also owns a .567 wOBA.
The Minnesota Twins send out right-hander Zebby Matthews, and like many others, we are still trying to figure out what a “Zebby” is. However, that is beside the point. Matthews owns one of the worst pitcher ratings on the slate and has struggled badly against lefties. Over his last 60 lefties faced, he has a 9.00 ERA and 7.01 xERA while allowing 48% hard contact, a 16% barrel rate, and a 70% elevation rate. Those hitters have produced a .350 xBA, .644 xSLG, and .417 xwOBA against him.
This will easily be one of Matthews’ biggest tests of the season, and I fully expect Ohtani to take full advantage this evening.
Time: 7:40 p.m. ET
Where to watch: MNNT, SNLA
Jake Bauers Over 1.5 hits, runs, RBIs (-131)
Entering today with an elite rating on Batters-Box is Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Jake Bauers, who has been producing so much hard contact that I had to back him in some form this evening. Over his last 30 plate appearances, he has generated 77% hard contact and a 15.4% barrel rate against right-handed pitching. Zooming out to his last 60 plate appearances, he still holds a 73% hard contact rate and a 13.3% barrel rate, while posting a .596 slugging percentage and a .428 wOBA.
He draws Cincinnati Reds right-hander Brady Singer, against whom he holds 82% arsenal coverage. At home this season, Singer owns a 5.61 xERA and 5.33 xFIP, allowing 42.2% hard contact and a 14.1% barrel rate to opposing hitters. Those bats have produced a .280 xBA, .527 xSLG, and .380 xwOBA.
If you are not in the juice-paying mood tonight, pairing Bauers with one of the other plays on the card sets up a strong plus-money two-leg parlay.
Time: 7:10 p.m. ET
Where to watch: CINR, BREW
Kyle Stowers Over 1.5 hits, runs, RBIs (-124)
A consistently trustworthy hitter for his HRR prop is Marlins outfielder Kyle Stowers, who enters with his 36th elite rating. In his previous 35, he has cleared this prop 54% of the time. At home, in 21 elite ratings, he has homered 28.57% of the time and gone over this prop 61.9% of the time.
The Fighting Fish slugger has been on a tear over his last 10 games, generating 63.2% hard contact, a 26.3% barrel rate, and elevating the ball 63.2% of the time. He also owns a .667 SLG, 1.109 OPS, and .471 wOBA in that stretch.
Stowers draws Rangers starter Kumar Rocker, against whom he has nearly 70% arsenal coverage. Rocker has consistently struggled vs left-handed hitters, who over his last 60 faced are producing 51% hard contact, a 12.2% barrel rate, and a 67% elevation rate, along with a .434 xBA, .826 xSLG, and .400 xwOBA.
I am trusting the trends tonight, and this feels like a strong spot for Stowers. If you are not a fan of laying juice, Stowers records a hit 71% of the time when he is elite. Pair him with Bauers for plus money.
Time: 6:40 p.m. ET
Where to watch: MIAMI, RSN
Colby Marchio's 2026 Transparency Record
Prop picks: 239-426, +1.4 units
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
EDMONTON, Alberta (AP) — The Edmonton Oilers re-signed defenseman Connor Murphy to a five-year contract worth $20.5 million on Monday.
The team announced the deal roughly 24 hours after extending center Jason Dickinson for the next five seasons at $20 million. Murphy and Dickinson joined Edmonton in separate deals from Chicago as pending unrestricted free agents ahead of the trade deadline in early March.
Murphy, like Dickinson, improved the Oilers’ ability to keep the puck out of their own net. Their goals-against average was 3.34 in the 62 games before acquiring them and dropped to 2.90 in the final 20 games of the regular season with them.
That number shot up to 4.33 in a first-round loss to Anaheim, though that also included goaltenders Tristan Jarry and Connor Ingram combining for a playoff-worst .866 save percentage.
General manager Stan Bowman could address the goaltending situation via trade or free agency, and he and the front office need to hire a coach after firing Kris Knoblauch, who led consecutive trips to the Stanley Cup in 2024 and '25.
Re-signing Murphy, 33, is part of the organization's commitment to being better defensively in an effort to finally get Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl their first championship after more than a decade in the NHL together. Murphy has skated in 840 games in the league with the Coyotes, Blackhawks and Oilers.
Jun 20, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Kazuma Okamoto (7) celebrates after hitting a three-run home run against the Chicago Cubs during the eighth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images | Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images
Tonight we start a three game series with the Astros and then four games with the Rangers all at Rogers Centre. And then Bo and the Mets come to town, to dazzle us with their vocal stylings.
They are pushing the starters back a day with the rain out. We will have:
Monday: Dylan Cease
Tuesday: Shane Bieber, making his first start of the season.
Wednesday: Trey Yesavage
Thursday: Kevin Gausman
Friday: Patrick Corbin
The Astros are fourth in the AL West at 37-42, but they are 10-8 this month.
The Rangers are much the same, 37-40 and 9-9 this month.
And, apparently, newly acquired Luis Urias will not be going to Buffalo, but will join the major league team because he had an ‘upward mobility’ clause in his contract. He had a date in his contract where had to be promoted to the majors or offered to other teams. I wonder who will be leaving to make room for him. I’m sure as soon as I hit publish, that news will come out.
MLB.com has “Three Questions The Blue Jays Must Answer Before The Deadline”.
Who is the #5 starter after the deadline?
We have more than a month before the trade deadline, many things can happen between now and then. Hopefully, none of those things will be injuries. Patrick Corbin has the job at the moment, but he’s had a rough time in his last 5 starts, with a 6.64 ERA, average just 4 innings per starts.
Jake Bloss has started on a rehab assignment. He might be ready to join the major league team by August. And Ricky Tiedeman has just started pitching, on his way back from Tommy John. He’s going to need longer that Bloss.
I’m sure the front office will be looking to see if they can make a deal for a starting pitcher.
2) Do the Blue Jays have something in Keys?
He does look like a good left-handed bat. The team has an abundance of lefty bats, but Keys has 18 home runs in just 64 minor league games, mostly with New Hampshire, but he’s in Buffalo now and hasn’t slowed down, .284/.411/.595 in 15 games. He can play first and third. We’ll know they are ready to bring him up when he starts playing some second base.
Who are the likeliest trade candidates?
See question above. When I see the beat writers talking up a minor leaguer before the deadline, I starting thinking that they are shopping him. It would take a lot to make them give up JoJo Parker. Beyond that, for the right player, they would have to be willing to trade anyone.
The Mavericks are hiring Dusty May from Michigan University to be their next head coach. He is the first coach since John Beilein in 2019 to make the leap, who resigned in February of 2020 after winning just 14 of his 54 games. Beilein, much like May, coached at Michigan and had a winning percentage north of 60 percent in his college career, making both established winners before their NBA tenure. While Beilein quickly flamed out in the big leagues, the Mavericks hope May follows a different path.
To find a different outcome, the Mavericks are going to have to fight history. Of the last 12 college coaches to get hired by an NBA team, only two had winning records. Billy Donovan is the lone survivor still coaching from this group, and has a very respectable career record of 469-413 (53.2 percent). Brad Stevens is the other great hire over the last 30-plus years, who went 354-282 over his eight seasons in Boston before famously making the transition to General Manager, where he has excelled since. Stevens is surely the guy that Dallas had in mind when making this decision, but the rest of the group gives enough pause to be cautious when setting expectations for the defending National Champion’s success at the next level.
Of the ten “duds”, three won over 100 games in the NBA and five won under 70. Two were fired early in their third season, and four lasted two or fewer. The flame-outs were quick and obvious, and given that all six guys hired between 1994 and 2000 had losing records, there was good reason just six more coaches were hired in the same fashion over the next 26 years.
What none of those guys did, however, was win a national title the year they left college. May is coming off a fantastic year that ended with nets being cut and the culmination of his meteoric rise to prominence. The closest any of the guys over the last 32 years (the full list is here) came to doing that was Rick Pitino in 1997, when he lost the National Championship game and then accepted a job to coach the Celtics. He did not win more than 36 games in any of the next four seasons as Boston’s head coach.
While history may not be on May’s side, he certainly has the resume to believe that he is closer to Brad Stevens than John Beilein. He has won everywhere he has coached; he hovered above .500 for four seasons at Florida Atlantic (FAU) and then exploded for 124 wins in 150 games over his next four at FAU and Michigan. That run included two Final Fours, two conference championships, and one National Title. He is a proven winner and is an exciting hire for Dallas. But he will have to overcome the hurdles that present themselves when transitioning from a college locker room to one with grown men. It’s okay to be happy that the Mavericks think they have their guy, but be aware that there are real and repeated failures with previous poachings of college coaches.
The Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres meet tonight at Petco Park, with Grant Holmes struggling and Michael King looking to rebound from a rough stretch.
While both Holmes and King haven't been great, I'm eyeing San Diego to come out on top here in my Braves vs. Padres predictions due to King's home form.
Who will win Braves vs Padres today: Padres moneyline (-107)
The Atlanta Braves have pitched well this season, but Grant Holmes has been extremely inconsistent. Over his last five starts, he owns a 6.29 FIP while allowing 4.22 walks and 2.53 home runs per nine innings. The right-hander also owns a 5.39 FIP on the road and continues to struggle with both command and damage prevention.
Michael King's recent numbers are concerning, as he owns an 8.24 xERA across his previous two outings. However, the right-hander has pitched much better at Petco Park this season, holding opponents to a .216 average while posting a 3.30 ERA.
I don't expect either starter to dominate, but King has a clear opportunity to rebound at home while the San Diego Padres get to face a pitcher in Holmes who has consistently allowed traffic and home runs.
Braves vs Padres Over/Under pick: Over 7.5 runs (+105)
With a modest total of just 7.5, there's value in the Over. Despite Atlanta's bullpen compiling a respectable 3.97 xERA over the last week, Grant Holmes still profiles as a pitcher who could allow three or four runs before exiting. The Padres are also squaring up the baseball lately, carrying a 41.2% hard-hit rate over their last six games.
Michael King also draws a difficult matchup against an elite Braves lineup. While Atlanta is batting just .235 over its last six games, its offensive talent is difficult to ignore against a starter who is prone to mistakes. The Padres' bullpen has also been shaky, posting a 4.22 FIP and 40.8% hard-hit rate over the last week.
There are multiple avenues for runs tonight.
I'll play this pick up to -120.
Quinn Allen's 2026 Transparency Record
ML/RL bets: 28-24, +1.70 units
Over/Under bets: 31-20, +6.60 units
Braves vs Padres weather
First pitch temperatures are expected to be around 68°F with light 6.9 mph winds, 75.8% humidity, and no chance of precipitation. The cool marine air and minimal wind shouldn't provide much assistance to hitters, making this a fairly neutral-to-slightly pitcher-friendly environment.
Braves vs Padres odds
Moneyline: Braves -100 | Padres -104
Run line: Braves -1.5 (+170) | Padres +1.5 (-178)
Over/Under: Over 7.5 (-104) | Under 7.5 (-108)
Braves vs Padres trend
The Atlanta Braves have hit the Team Total Over in 30 of their last 45 away games (+12.00 Units / 22% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Braves vs. Padres.
How to watch Braves vs Padres and game info
Location
Petco Park, San Diego, CA
Date
Monday, June 22, 2026
First pitch
10:10 p.m. ET
TV
ESPN
Braves starting pitcher
Grant Holmes (4-3, 4.33 ERA)
Padres starting pitcher
Michael King (4-6, 3.60 ERA)
Braves vs Padres latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
With free agency set to begin on June 30, James appears to be keeping every option on the table, from returning to the Los Angeles Lakers to exploring other opportunities — or even retirement.
According to ESPN insider Ramona Shelburne, initial conversations between James’ camp and the Lakers have remained informal and exploratory.
LeBron James is still weighing his options ahead of a massive NBA decision that could reshape free agency. Getty Images
“LA is the first team he can talk to because they’re their own free agent,” Shelburne said on SportsCenter. “My understanding is they had initial conversations with LeBron James’ representative, but he has not even fully committed to returning next year in these conversations.”
LA Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka has his work cut out for him during free agency. Getty Images
Shelburne described the discussions as little more than both sides “keeping in touch,” noting that no contract figures have been discussed and no commitment has been made.
“I think that’s been interpreted as something like, ‘LeBron is still assessing his options,’” Shelburne said. “Whether that is retirement or whether that is other teams.”
That uncertainty was echoed by James’ longtime agent Rich Paul, who recently dismissed widespread speculation surrounding the four-time NBA champion.
“There’s nobody that knows anything about anything that pertains to LeBron,” Paul said. “LeBron James is gonna take as much time as he needs and wants.”
James and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder look toward the heavens. Getty Images
Paul added that roughly 10 to 12 teams have already expressed interest in James should he decide to leave Los Angeles.
Despite turning 42 during the upcoming season, James remains one of the league’s most productive players. He averaged 21.3 points, 7.2 assists and 6.2 rebounds across 70 games during the 2025–26 campaign, proving he can still impact winning at a high level.
The financial component could complicate matters. James earned $52.6 million last season, while the Lakers may prefer greater salary flexibility as they continue building around Luka Dončić.
Luka Dončić listens to James during the Lakers’ third quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Getty Images
According to Shelburne, James may be reluctant to take a substantial pay cut, particularly after feeling his sacrifices in recent years have gone underappreciated.
The Lakers remain in contact. Rival teams continue to monitor the situation. And LeBron James, perhaps for the first time in years, appears to be carefully evaluating every possible path before making what could become one of the most consequential decisions of the NBA offseason.
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Hang uno up in the rafters. Booker is in his #15 era.
New number, new Book. Scoring 70 points in a loss Book is out, and gold medal Book is in. The Olympic 3 and D Book. The “I’ll do it” Book. The being-anything-the-team-needs-him-to-be Book.
What could the player that Steve Kerr named the “Unsung MVP” of the 2024 Olympic gold medal team bring to the run-it-back Suns? I say, he’ll bring what he’s always brought, exactly what his team needs to win.
Steve Kerr went on to say this about Devin Booker.
“He’s probably the guy who has been the most adaptable to go from a different role in the NBA to a new one here. He’s adapted to being an on-ball guy, ball mover. The offense clicks when he’s out there, the defense is really good.”
In my opinion, the Suns need Booker to fill a new role in the 2026-27 season. More CP3, less Kobe. More Gary Payton, less Allen Iverson. This Suns team doesn’t win a playoff series or nab a 4-5 seed because Booker takes more shots. Not if that means Jalen Green has to take fewer shots. Or Dillon Brooks gets trigger-shy. Or Collin Gillespie defers. This isn’t the 2017 Suns, or the CP3 Suns that needed Booker to flame on every night. Booker doesn’t have to provide the bulk of the shots on this Suns team. SG1 isn’t a winning strategy. Let Ant and Spida spin their tires in the conference finals, chasing that title. The answer isn’t always more gas.
You know what the run-it-back Suns need more than 25 shots a night from Booker? Some of that Paris Olympics defense.
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For being a team that wants to build off the defensive side of the ball, the Suns couldn’t keep anyone out of the lane, and by the time they got to the playoffs, the secret was out. Expect teams to attack the Suns with the drive until the tape gives them reason to pause. The Suns can’t be the type of swarming defense Jordan Ott envisions if they can’t stay in front of the ball. The coaching staff and front office are surely working to address that weakness, but could the Suns’ best player be a part of the solution?
Booker played good defense last season. Can he make that a more consistent part of his game? Can he step up and take on a difficult assignment in a playoff series? Could he hold up when he gets switched onto Ant, Luka, or Shai. What would that allow the rest of the team to do? If Booker is mixing it up on defense, game in and game out, what kind of effort are you going to get from Jalen Green? How does that intensity transfer to the young core? How aggressively do Collin, Oso, Fleming, and Dunn play? A great individual offensive performance can increase everyone’s confidence shooting the ball. Could great individual effort from Book on the defensive end have a similar effect? The rising tide raises all boats. The Suns need Devin Booker to be the rising tide, on the defensive end, and as a playmaker on offense.
Booker’s numbers weren’t as off from previous seasons as the fan reaction would have you think, but the efficiency numbers were down. Yet the biggest critique from Book’s post-season performance was that he wasn’t aggressively seeking his shot. Then people see Jalen Brunson in the finals relentlessly attacking, and everyone stands up and says, “See! That’s what Booker needs to do.” But when Booker was at his best, making finals runs, getting MVP votes, and making all NBA teams, he was efficient. His 45.6 FG% last season was the lowest it’s been since the 2017-18 season, and his 33.0 3PT% was the lowest it’s been since the 2018-19 season. How does forcing contested shots help that?
Booker is great when he’s pushing the 50/40/90 mark. If he has to shoot it 15-17 times a game instead of 20 to get there, so be it. Booker needs to leverage his basketball IQ and gravity to be a playmaker first, like you see from superstars like Jokic or Lebron. Not just to create open looks for his teammates but also to open up better looks for himself. Lebron and Jokic don’t attack the wall teams build to contain them. They work the ball around the wall until the defense has to come out to cover the corners of the court they thought they could sacrifice. That’s when Jokic or Lebron start scoring. That’s how they get the looks they want, not the looks the defense wants.
Booker would benefit from being a more opportunistic scorer this upcoming season. When he’s playing with the bench unit at the end of the first quarter. Go nuts. When the Suns brick consecutive shots, and the other team sparks a run. Get aggressive, get a bucket. When he catches Austin Reeves in rotation. Take him to the hoop. But you don’t need to kill yourself in the first half getting to your spot if Green or Brooks are getting good looks. Be smart about when you spend your energy. The Suns don’t need Booker to take over in the second quarter; they need him to get buckets in the 4th. That’s how, on any given night, Booker can take fewer shots than Jalen Green or Dillon Brooks and still be the franchise player the Suns pay him to be. CP3 had it down to a science.
Booker can’t stay 2023 forever. I’m sure he looks at guys like Lebron and CP3, who stretched their careers out long past their expected expiration date, and thinks how he could do the same for his career. Their games evolved with age, with the way defenses played them, with the teams they had around them. Booker’s game will evolve too.
From coming off the bench for Calipari at Kentucky to hitting corner threes for Steve Kerr in the Paris Olympics, Devin Booker has always been willing and able to assume whatever role he needs to play to win. For over a decade, he’s been the Sun’s offensive engine wearing the number 1. Maybe that’s not what the Suns need right now. Maybe the Suns need the Olympic Booker. Maybe it’s time for Suns fans to open their minds to what #15 has to offer.
Or maybe I’m wrong. Maybe the only thing that will change about Devin Booker is his number. Let me know in the comments what you expect from Book next season. Will we see a new Book? Or will SG1 strike back?
Rookie JJ Wetherholt is an outstanding defender. (Photo by Kyle Rivas/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Series Timing.
The series timing is better than expected for the Diamondbacks. Recently, the Cardinals had a 3-game losing streak (17-19 June). Last season, they collapsed in July (8 wins, 16 losses), and this season they seem to be starting their collapse in late June.
Let’s compare the teams.
Offense. This season through 19 June, the Cardinals averaged more runs scored per game (4.55 vs 4.28 runs per game).
Runners Left On Base. This season through 19 June, the Diamondbacks left fewer runners on base per game (6.60 vs 7.27).
Defense. This season through 19 June, the Diamondbacks had the better defense (19 vs 13 OAA, 35 vs 11 DRS)
Bullpens. This season through 19 June, the Cardinals had more shutdown performances by the bullpen (77 vs 71).
Starting Pitcher Matchups. This season through 20 June, the Diamondbacks had the most quality starts (30 vs 28). In this series, if the Diamondbacks starting pitching is good, the odds are good that the Diamondbacks win at least two games of the four game series.
Cardinals Player to Watch.
JJ Wetherholt is the Cardinals’ top prospect. In his debut season, he is playing second base. His defense is outstanding (13 OAA). His batting is outstanding (118 OPS+ with 10 homers). His baserunning is outstanding (2 runs created by his baserunnning, with above-average extra bases taken and above-average stolen bases). If the season ended today, he would likely win the NL rookie-of-the-year award.
Diamondbacks Player to Watch.
Brandon Pfaadt will return to the rotation. In the Majors, he has not started a game since April. Nevertheless, I feel positive vibes that he will return from the minors at his best. It will be a confidence booster that recently the Diamondbacks offense is on a hot streak ( 8 or more runs on 17, 19, and 20 June) and that he will face a pitcher who, in June, had an ERA over ten.
Pitching Matchups.
Monday, 4:45 PM MST.
Merrill Kelly vs Andre Pallente. In June, Pallente had the better ERA (2.41 ERA vs 8.27 ERA), and Pallente had more quality starts (2 QS vs 1 QS).
This matchup is advantage Cardinals.
Tuesday, 4:45 PM MST.
Eduardo Rodriguez vs Kyle Leahy. In June Rodriguez had the better ERA (2.86 ERA vs 6.00 ERA), and Rodriguez had more quality starts (2 QS vs 1 QS).
This matchup is advantage Diamondbacks.
Wednesday, 4:45 PM MST.
(TBD, possibly Brandon Pfaadt) vs Matthew Liberatore. In March/April, prior to pitching in relief, Pfaadt started 3 games. In his fourth start, he entered the game in the third inning and pitched 6.1 innings. In those four games, his ERA was 4.70. In those 4 games, he earned one quality start. If he had started the fourth game, it would have been a second quality start. On that bases, comparing Pfaadt and Liberatore, Pfaadt had the better ERA (4.70 ERA vs 10.45 ERA), and Soroka had more quality starts (2 QS vs zero QS). Worth noting is that my expectation is that neither pitcher will be in the game at the start of the fifth inning. That is because Pfaadt is not stretched out, and 4.1 innings was the most innings that Liberatore pitched in June.
This matchup is advantage Diamondbacks.
Thursday, 4:45 PM MST.
Zac Gallen vs Michael McGreevy. In June McGreevy had the better ERA (4.30 ERA vs 8.85 ERA), and McGreevy had more quality starts (3 QS vs 1 QS). Worth noting is that Gallen allowed 9 earned runs in his latest start, which makes me think that the odds are favorable that Gallen will pitch better than indicated by his June ERA.
Jun 2, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Eric Lauer in the second inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Four games and four wins. That’s the track record of today’s starter for the Dodgers, Eric Lauer, as he gets ready to face the Twins in a second straight appearance against an American League team. The Dodgers knew exactly what they were getting after acquiring Lauer a little more than a month ago, and they have produced enough offense to take advantage of his serviceable but far from spectacular performances, beating the Rockies, Diamondbacks, Pirates, and Rays—three teams with a record above .500.
One predictable aspect of Lauer’s game that has appeared in this short period as a Dodger is his propensity to give up long balls. The left-hander has allowed at least one home run in each of his four starts since joining the Dodgers, totaling five of them and only eight earned runs. While he’s been able to finesse his way into productive performances, if the homers keep coming, a blowup is on the horizon.
Projecting this matchup against this Twins offense, don’t be fooled by their record below .500 in an underwhelming AL Central—it is primarily a byproduct of their lousy pitching numbers. The Twins come into this matchup averaging 4.91 runs per game, the second-highest mark in the American League, trailing only the Yankees. Specifically on the subject of home runs, one name stands out: Byron Buxton. The Twins’ star center fielder has homered seven times in his last 14 games, totaling 24 on the season. Lauer and the Dodgers pitching staff as a whole have their work cut out for them, trying to contain Buxton.
I’m anticipating the Chicago lineup to do damage against Senga to pave the way to this Over. In addition to the highlighted offensive surge from the Cubbies, they’ve also gone Over their team total in 21 of their last 35away games (+6.10 units / 15% ROI).
The Mets are also ripe to cash in on statistical correction. New York ranks 23rd in BABIP with their .311 wOBA below their 12th-ranked .321 xwOBA to go along with a sixth-ranked hard-hit rate across the past 30 days.
This Over is the play to -120.
Neil Parker's 2026 Transparency Record
ML/RL bets: 28-14, +15.77 units
Over/Under bets: 14-13, -0.03 units
Cubs vs Mets weather
The forecast is clear with 73°F conditions, no chance of rain, and a steady 10-mph wind blowing in from left-center field.
Cubs vs Mets odds
Moneyline: Cubs -117 | Mets +113
Run line: Cubs -1.5 (+138) | Mets +1.5 (-144)
Over/Under: Over 8.5 (-113) | Under 8.5 (+108)
Cubs vs Mets trend
The Cubs have covered the first five innings (F5) run line in eight of their last 10 games for +5.80 units and a 48% ROI. Find more MLB betting trends for Cubs vs. Mets.
How to watch Cubs vs Mets and game info
Location
Citi Field, Queens, NY
Date
Monday, June 22, 2026
First pitch
7:10 p.m. ET
TV
MARQ, SNY
Cubs starting pitcher
Edward Cabrera (4-4, 5.21 ERA)
Mets starting pitcher
Kodai Senga (0-5, 9.00 ERA)
Cubs vs Mets latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 08: Mason Miller #22 of the San Diego Padres pitches against the Cincinnati Reds during the ninth inning at Petco Park on June 08, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It’s kind of hard to believe that the final West Coast swing of the season has finally arrived and the season hasn’t even hit the All-Star break yet. Whether you consider that to be a blessing (that this won’t come in August or September) or a curse (that it’s usually rough going out there no matter what time of year it is), there’s no denying that it’s coming at a bit of a weird moment for the Braves.
It sure looked like things were hitting a bit of a nadir for the Braves after they dropped consecutive series to the White Sox (understandable), the Mets (annoying) and the Giants (concerning) with the Brewers looming in the near horizon. As it turned out, the Braves proved that they’re a resilient bunch and ended up taking a dramatic series win in order to salvage the homestand and also stop the bleeding in what had been a rough stretch of games.
Now, we’re going to see that resilience get put to the test. Will the Braves keep the good times rolling out West? Or will the state of California trip up the Braves yet again? It’s time to look at what lies ahead this week for the Braves.
June 22-24: San Diego Padres
Current Record: 39-37Projected Record (via FanGraphs): 80-82
I mean, it goes without saying that obviously we’d all like to see the Braves have the lead in the ninth inning for all three games this series. If they don’t or the game goes into extras, they’re more-than-likely going to see Mason Miller and opposing hitters have not enjoyed seeing Mason Miller so far this season. He’s currently sitting on an ERA of 0.87 (22 ERA-) and a FIP of 0.33 (8 FIP-. Yes, EIGHT. League average is 100, by the way) where he’s given up 13 hits and 12 walks opposed to 61 strikeouts across 31 innings of work. That is absolutely horrifying to deal with.
However, the Padres are in the unenviable position of a relief pitcher being their best player. Heading into Sunday’s action, Mason Miller (who is not an every day player) had produced 2.0 fWAR on the season in 30 games. Fernando Tatis Jr. (who is an everyday player) has produced 1.7 fWAR. That discrepancy basically sums up how things have gone for the Padres. They’ve got some solid pitching — Adrian Morejon is also incredibly tough coming out of the bullpen, Walker Buehler has been trying to get things back on track with the Padres and Michael King has a track record of success against the Braves. Combine that with the pitcher-friendly park factor at Petco Park and we could be in for some low-scoring games during this series.
That’s also assuming that the Padres continue to scuffle at the plate, themselves. It is a little concerning that this crew has started to heat up a bit — they’ve scored at least five runs in six of their last 10 games and they’ll be facing a Braves pitching staff that (while they did stabilize a bit in the series win against the Brewers) hasn’t exactly been in shutdown mode in recent times.
Of course, it’d be lovely if Atlanta’s pitching staff did round back into form but it’s still hard to dismiss a lineup that’ll include Fernando Tatis Jr., Xander Bogaerts, Gavin Sheets and Ty France in it. Samad Taylor has provided some exciting moments as well and then you have the ever-looming threat of Manny Machado as well. Machado has been mostly scuffling so far this season but he’s got 13 homers so he could very well just pop one over the fence at any given moment. Grant Holmes, JR Ritchie and Martín Pérez will have to be on top of things in their starts this week.
Monday, June 22 at 10:10 p.m. ET (ESPN) Tuesday, June 23 at 9:40 p.m. ET (BravesVision, Gray TV) Wednesday, June 23 at 8:40 p.m ET (BravesVision)
June 25-27: San Francisco Giants
Current Record: 31-46 Projected Record: 74-88
The last time the Braves saw the Giants, they were busy hitting balls all around Truist Park and over the fences as well — which was surprising considering how difficult it had been for this team to hit for power on a regular basis. Whatever magic they had in Atlanta was completely lost by the time they made it to Miami to complete their East Coast swing, as the Marlins ended up sweeping them.
San Francisco hit two homers (Rafael Devers in the opener and Casey Schmitt in the middle game) over the course of those three losses — now mind you, they hit back-to-back dingers against the Braves twice across two games in one day, so you tell me what’s happening there (other than baseball being a weird sport). It’s not like the Marlins were rolling, themselves, since they had just got done dropping a series against the Phillies. I guess that’s why you play the game on the field and not on a spreadsheet!
In Cobb County, the Giants got contributions from their usual suspects like Luis Arraez, Casey Schmitt, Jung Hoo Lee and Matt Chapman but Rafael Devers also did a lot of damage as well. Obviously, keeping those guys quiet instead of letting each and every one of them run rampant at the plate will be key to Atlanta’s chances of getting some revenge in San Francisco. Bryce Eldridge might just be difficult to keep quiet at the plate no matter what, so there’s that. Either way, it’s already evident that when these guys get rolling, they can be dangerous.
The good news as far as pitching matchups go is that the Braves are going to avoid Landen Roupp and apparently everybody in Atlanta’s clubhouse should be thrilled about (probably) not seeing Robbie Ray again. The bad news is that the Braves will likely have to face Logan Webb, who has given the Braves serious trouble nearly every time he’s faced Atlanta. The lone two exceptions happened in 2023 but that was the season where the Braves were taking nearly everybody out back behind the woodshed so that appears to clearly be an exceptional case for the Braves. The rest of San Francisco’s pitching staff is vulnerable so assuming the Giants haven’t just completely figured out the Braves, Atlanta could do some damage in this series. We’ll see what happens!
Friday, June 26 at 10:15 p.m. ET (BravesVision) Saturday, June 27 at 9:05 p.m. ET (BravesVision) Sunday, June 28 at 4:05 p.m. ET (BravesVision)
Just one sleep remains before the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft in Brooklyn. The 2026 class is been considered one of the deepest and most talented in recent memory, headlined by a quartet of generational one-and-dones as well as explosive guards, and elite veteran forwards. With the draft almost here, here are John Fanta's picks for all 30 first-round selections.
Shohei Ohtani
Jake Bauers
Kyle Stowers
COVERS INTEL: Holmes has allowed 
