LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 13: Vsevolod Ishchenko #13 of the Dallas Mavericks drives to the basket during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2026 NBA Las Vegas Summer League on July 13, 2026 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. 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 Becker/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
With Dallas, Ishchenko came stateside to play in the Summer League where he logged time across five games, averaging 9.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.8 blocks per game. With that, he also averaged 3.4 turnovers per game. His numbers – especially when considering he is a 21-year-old who joined a team of strangers in a foreign country for two weeks – were generally solid. However, the high turnover rate spoke to his adjustment to the NBA game, both in terms of size and speed. He certainly showed flashes and it’s reasonable to think he could develop into a rotation player in the future, but it is difficult to argue that he could use some more seasoning.
In respect of that seasoning, he was highly unlikely to get enough of it in Dallas this coming season. To that end, rumors now suggest he will be heading back overseas to play for Lokomotiv Kuban of the VTB United League in Russia. “Loko” is the same team he played for up until draft night, so this is a return home for him (literally and figuratively). As a result of the move, Dallas gets to stash him overseas to get more reps and playing time than he would at the NBA level, allowing him to develop further before potentially bringing him back at some point in the future.
The Mavericks tighten up their roster a bit with the move as well, getting down to a more manageable number required for the start of the upcoming season. Of course, more moves could be on the way, but for now Dallas managed their roster without pulling the trigger on a trade.
As you can imagine, there is not yet an overabundance of news on a transaction like this, so we will continue to keep you posted with updates as they come. For now, feel free to comment below or join the ongoing conversation in the Feed.
I invite you to follow me @_80MPH on X, and check back often at Mavs Moneyball for all the latest on the Dallas Mavericks.
CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 16: A generic photo of the stage during a press conference announcing a WNBA franchise in Cleveland on September 16, 2025 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Brian Kolin/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
It was announced that in 2028, a new WNBA franchise will reside in Cleveland, Ohio. In a live-stream unveiling on August 4th, a presentation group include Cleveland Cavaliers president of basketball operations Koby Altman, it was revealed what the newest chapter of Cleveland’s part in the WNBA.
Forged on our shores, this is the story of the Cleveland Sirens. #HEARTHECALL📢
The name decided upon is the Cleveland Sirens. The name was chosen “for Lake Erie’s power and pull”.
The last time there was a WNBA franchise in Cleveland, it was under the Cleveland Rockers, who eventually were dissolved as Cavaliers owner Gordon Gund no longer wanted to house the franchise.
For those hoping the Rockers would return in the unveiling, they were at least mentioned in the press release.
“Cleveland gave the world rock and roll, then brought that sound to the WNBA stage. Now, we’re back. With a different song. A louder one.”
Grant Gilbert spoke on that when there was polling and research poured into the design and naming of the franchise that the city was proud of Lake Erie and wanted to bring that pride into something new.
Siren’s president of basketball operations, Allison Howard, went on to describe the rationale and passion the creative team and fans of women’s sports have shared in this process.
“The Siren is very powerful, unapologetic, relentless. We see it as the epitome of power and the best team name. Even from the logo you can feel the energy and thunderous passion.”
“She is ready. This (unveiling) is really a testament to the fans in this building. She has been here, just like the fans of women’s sports. She is here and she is ready to usher in a new era of women’s sports.”
It was also unveiled that the team’s motto will be “Hear the Call”. Further details, including uniforms, will be announced at a later date to be determined.
Philadelphia (60-53) stormed back from a 3-0 deficit against Washington (55-59) fueled by a Derek Hill grand slam in the seventh inning and capped off by a two-run Bryce Harper home run in the eighth inning.
Washington has now lost six straight games and seven of the past eight. The Nationals have scored three or fewer runs in six of the previous eight games and are hitting .186 over the past seven days and six games (26th). Washington's offense has scored 16 runs in the six-game losing streak with 36 hits and 45 strikeouts.
Philadelphia is tied for the final spot in the Wild Card with Arizona and are 5.5 games ahead of Washington. The Phillies are on a three-game winning streak and have outscored opponents, 19-3 in that span. Philadelphia had a two-game streak of holding opponents scoreless as they've opened August with a 1.17 ERA (3rd) and a .163 OBA (3rd).
Let's dive into tonight’s matchup and find a sweat or two.
We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch first pitch, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.
Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.
Game Details and How to Watch: Nationals vs. Phillies
Date: Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Time: 6:40PM EST
Site: Citizens Bank
City: Philadelphia, PA
Network/Streaming: MLB.TV, Nationals.TV, NBC Sports Philadelphia
Never miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.
The Latest Odds: Nationals vs. Phillies
The latest odds as of Tuesday courtesy of DraftKings:
Moneyline: Washington Nationals (+221), Philadelphia Phillies (-276)
· Dylan Crews has collected 12 hits over his last 10 games
· Trea Turner is 12-46 with 2 HRs over his last 11 games
· Luis Arraez has one hit over his last 12 at-bats
· Bryce Harper has hit safely in 8 straight games (9-30)
Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!
Top Betting Trends & Insights: Nationals vs. Phillies
The Nationals are 66-48 on the Run Line this season
The Phillies are an NL-worst 45-68 on the Run Line this season
The OVER has cashed 62 times in Washington’s 114 games this season (62-47-5)
The OVER has cashed 48 times in the Phillies’ 113 games this season (48-59-6)
Expert picks & predictions: Nationals vs. Phillies
Rotoworld Bet Best Bet
Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.
Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.
Here are the best bets our model is projecting for today’s game between the Nationals and the Phillies:
Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is staying away from a play on the Moneyline.
Spread: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Nationals on the Run Line.
Total: Rotoworld Bet is recommending a play on the Game Total UNDER 9.0.
Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:
Who will win Padres vs Diamondbacks today: Diamondbacks moneyline (-112)
Eduardo Rodriguez is throwing the ball extremely well right now for the Arizona Diamondbacks. The left-hander owns a 2.61 xERA over his last two starts while holding opponents to a mere 17.8% hard-hit rate.
The San Diego Padres counter with Randy Vasquez, who has been respectable with a 3.46 FIP over the last month. However, Vasquez rarely works deep, which should force the Padres bullpen into action early.
The bigger edge for Arizona comes at the plate. The Diamondbacks have been much better offensively in Phoenix, posting a 101 wRC+ at home compared to a mark of 87 on the road.
I don’t expect a blowout, but Arizona should give E-Rod enough support against a Padres offense that owns a poor 88 wRC+ against left-handers.
Padres vs Diamondbacks Over/Under pick: Under 8.5 (+119)
The Under has a clear path tonight, even with this game being played in Arizona. Neither lineup is showing much power at the moment, with the Padres posting a brutal .076 ISO over the last week and the Diamondbacks sitting at just .126 during that same span.
The bullpen setup also supports a lower-scoring game. San Diego’s relief corps has been steady lately, while Arizona’s bullpen owns a strong 2.84 xERA over the last week. That matters with Vasquez unlikely to be in there long for the Padres.
Rodriguez’s recent weak-contact profile gives Arizona a solid run-prevention base, and if the bullpens continue to limit damage, this matchup has a strong path to stay Under 8.5.
I'll play this pick to +100.
Quinn Allen's 2026 Transparency Record
ML/RL bets: 41-53, -17.58 units
Over/Under bets: 53-39, +7.23 units
Padres vs Diamondbacks weather
Weather outside Chase Field will be extremely hot tonight, with temperatures still around 107-109°F early before falling to 100°F later. Rain chances are very low, and winds should be light to moderate. However, if the roof is closed, the game will be played in controlled conditions with minimal weather impact.
Padres vs Diamondbacks odds
Moneyline: Padres +104 | Diamondbacks -108
Run line: Padres +1.5 (-178) | Diamondbacks -1.5 (+170)
Over/Under: Over 8.5 (-127) | Under 8.5 (+122)
Padres vs Diamondbacks trend
The Diamondbacks have hit the moneyline in 15 of their last 21 games (+12.50 Units / 53% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Padres vs. Diamondbacks.
How to watch Padres vs Diamondbacks and game info
Location
Chase Field, Phoenix, AZ
Date
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
First pitch
9:40 p.m. ET
TV
Padres.TV, DBACKS.TV
Padres starting pitcher
Randy Vasquez (6-6, 4.45 ERA)
Diamondbacks starting pitcher
Eduardo Rodriguez (10-3, 2.48 ERA)
Padres vs Diamondbacks 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.
They even took it a step further, sending dominant setup man Luke Weaver (under contract through 2027) and versatile right-handed reliever Huascar Brazoban (under team control through 2029) to the Pirates and White Sox, respectively.
When it comes to assessing the players the Mets got back in their deadline sell-off, doing an instant analysis of it requires nuance -- especially when using prospect rankings as part of your determination of how good a return is.
Farm systems aren't apples to apples. For example, Tampa Bay's No. 15 prospect could be San Diego's No. 6. So blindly citing those rankings without additional context is pointless.
Beyond that, most of the prospect lists people are referencing haven't been updated since before the season.
In any event, without the benefit of Doc Brown's DeLorean, we can only work with the information we have right now. And using that info, it's fair to say that the process Stearns and the Mets used while making their most important trades -- getting infielder Sammy Stafura from the Pirates for Weaver and infielder Jefferson Rojas from the Cubs for Clay Holmes and Tyrone Taylor -- was sound.
They clearly valued Stafura enough to zero in on him and pay down Weaver's salary. And getting Rojas, who is widely viewed as a top 100 prospect in baseball, felt like a big win.
In the aftermath of all the wheeling and dealing on Monday night, Stearns fielded some questions about whether the team considered seeking immediate help in these deals. His answer, unsurprisingly, was that they simply went after the best talent -- an answer that, like it or not, was the right one.
Knoxville Smokies infielder Jefferson Rojas (2) runs to third base during a minor league baseball game between the Knoxville Smokies and Biloxi Shuckers at Covenant Health Park in Knoxville, Tenn., on July 7, 2026. / USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Now comes the hard part.
With the Mets attempting to rebound right away and contend in 2027, they're going to have to assemble a team from the bones of a roster whose locks for next season might be in the single digits, with the core of the club possibly looking like this:
Nolan McLean Christian Scott Devin Williams Juan Soto Carson Benge A.J. Ewing Francisco Lindor Francisco Alvarez Luis Torrens
A wild card here is Bo Bichette, who has a player opt-out after this season. If he exercises it, the Mets will have to find a new third baseman.
There's also the presence of Jorge Polanco (under contract through 2027) and Marcus Semien (under contract through 2028), which could create serious issues. Polanco, who has missed significant time due to an Achilles injury and can't play the field in his current state, has a .388 OPS and 9 OPS+ in 29 games this year. Even an OPS .250 points higher would be borderline unplayable. Semien has been better lately, but his offensive decline that started a few years ago has continued.
When it comes to the pitching staff, Stearns said the obvious before the deadline, which is that it would have to be strengthened this winter with external additions. McLean will help anchor it, and Scott appears likely to be a member. Sean Manaea and Zac Thornton could also factor in. But serious reinforcements will be needed to address a rotation whose struggles have been the root cause of the Mets' failures for two straight seasons.
The bullpen, now without Weaver and Brazoban, is a different story altogether.
Looking ahead to 2027, the relief corps is basically Williams and seven shrug emojis. It's possible Dedniel Núñez, back from Tommy John surgery, becomes part of the solution. Reed Garrett (another TJS recipient) could be back and help provide depth. Perhaps hard-throwing prospect Dylan Ross gets a chance down the stretch and puts his name in the mix. The same goes for Nate Lavender, who will get a shot in the final months of this season. But the back end of the 'pen will have to be rebuilt.
With all of this as a backdrop comes the added element that Stearns could be fighting for his job.
Jun 26, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns speaks during a press conference before a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citi Field. The club earlier today parted ways with manager Carlos Mendoza (not pictured). / Brad Penner-Imagn Images
While giving Stearns a vote of confidence earlier this season and saying that the Mets were going to "live that contract out," Steve Cohen added that there were "no guarantees." And it's difficult to see Stearns getting another chance to right the ship if New York stumbles again in 2027.
Given that scenario, it seems fair to conclude that Stearns has to (and will be) more aggressive this offseason than he's been in the past. Being measured and surgical aren't bad traits to have, but it can also mean missing out on impact players -- especially when it comes to free agency.
That doesn't mean Stearns should turn his philosophy on its head and start acting like A.J. Preller. But more forcefulness is needed.
One way to do that would be to make an exception when it comes to long contracts for older players, throwing caution to the wind while launching an all-out pursuit of Tarik Skubal. There are exceptions to every rule, and Skubal -- a true ace who will be entering his age-30 season next year -- feels like one, as long as his medicals check out.
The Mets should also have their cake and eat it too, by signing Clay Holmes -- a damn good pitcher, New York-tested, and one of their clubhouse leaders -- back via free agency.
New York also needs a first baseman who is average or better at the position, a designated hitter, and -- depending on how Semien looks over the last two months of the season -- a second baseman.
That's where it might get tricky, since it's hard to envision the Mets entering next season with both Polanco and Semien viewed as non-factors. Maybe they try to thread the needle when it comes to Semien, with Rojas a potential option to replace him at some point during the year.
Then there's the aforementioned bullpen, which needs a lot of help via free agency and/or trade. Stearns might have to get creative via trade here, since -- as is the case with the free agent starters -- not many of the free agent relievers stand out.
Oh, and Stearns needs to hire a new manager. And possibly a new coaching staff.
While the remainder of the regular season will serve as a tryout of sorts for some of the players trying to stake a claim for next season, this offseason could be a final audition for Stearns as he attempts to prove he has what it takes to turn this thing around and stabilize it.
Because the Detroit Red Wings lost the 57 points scored by Patrick Kane last season when the future Hall of Famer departed to return to the Chicago Blackhawks, they're going to need other players to elevate their respective performances.
One of those players they'll be looking toward is Lucas Raymond, who experienced a dip in production in 2025-26 compared to the previous campaign.
That being said, Raymond still made it onto the NHL's 20 Best Wingers list released earlier in the week.
Lucas Raymond (@DetroitRedWings) kicks off NHL Network's Top 20 Wings Right Now list!
Although Raymond looked limited late last season, often passing up shooting opportunities and finishing without a goal over his final seven games, he dismissed the idea that he was dealing with a specific injury when speaking to the media after the campaign came to a close.
In 80 games during the 2025-26 season, Raymond scored 25 goals and added 51 assists, finishing with four fewer points than he recorded the year before. His shot total also fell from 192 to 173, a decline that did not go unnoticed by head coach Todd McLellan.
“He's 92nd in shots on goal....he shouldn't be in there," McLellan said of Raymond in mid-March. "He should be in the top 50 at least, top 40 in my opinion, with the amount of ice time and opportunities, the looks at the net."
For the Red Wings to maximize their chances for success in 2026-27, they'll need Raymond to deliver - not only to help ease the burden of Kane's departure, but especially if Dylan Larkin's trade request is granted by whoever succeeds Steve Yzerman as GM.
Never miss a story by adding us to your Google News favorites!
For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.
DENVER, CO - JULY 31: Antonio Senzatela #49 of the Colorado Rockies takes the sign from the catcher during the game between the Kansas City Royals and the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on Friday, July 31, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Ray Bahner/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Brewers fans and fans across the country.
Welcome back to another edition of our Reacts Survey! In this week’s poll, we’re asking fans to grade the Brewers’ trade deadline.
I already offered up my deadline grades yesterday, and after we posted individual polls for the Brewers’ two deadline day deals, we’re here to ask you to grade the overall deadline.
While there was plenty of speculation about Milwaukee potentially making a splashy move for the first time since acquiring CC Sabathia at the deadline in 2008, that never came to fruition. Instead, the Brewers made three low-key moves to improve their depth, particularly on the pitching side.
First, it was the acquisition of catcher Bo Naylor and right-handed reliever Codi Heuer on Saturday morning, with outfielder Blake Perkins and right-handed reliever Craig Yoho heading to Cleveland in the return. Heuer was then flipped to the Orioles for cash considerations yesterday, while Naylor has been put at Triple-A Nashville.
In Milwaukee’s two moves on Monday, they acquired pitchers Dustin May and JoJo Romero from the Cardinals in return for outfield prospects Alexander Frias and Josiah Ragsdale before acquiring pitcher Antonio Senzatela from the Rockies for pitcher Mark Manfredi and shortstop Juan Martinez.
How would you grade the Brewers’ trade deadline? Did it move the needle? Weigh in below and stay tuned for results later this week!
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - AUGUST 01: A general view of the Baltimore Orioles playing against the Philadelphia Phillies in the fourth inning at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on August 01, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Orioles fans and fans across the country.
Mike Elias waved the white flag on the 2026 season with the trade deadline moves. We can always hold out hope that the Orioles will put together some kind of great run and win just to spite him, in the vein of the classic baseball movie Major League. The odds were long even before the trade, however, and shipping out the players he shipped out has made the team worse and their chances of overcoming the 2.5 game deficit for a wild card spot even more slim.
If it’s not gonna be this year, when? This week’s poll question is focused on how you feel about that in the aftermath of yesterday’s detonation. Can enough be pulled together with the remaining talent in the organization, plus whatever Elias might manage to add over the offseason, to make it happen next year? Or is success more distant than even that?
I’m saying 2028, and I feel like I’m being excessively optimistic to even vote for that. The unfortunate pattern we have seen is that Elias does not have the strategic brains nor the tactical guts to either lay out long-term success or maximize short-term gains. I’d like to be wrong.
What do you think? Vote above and let us know in the comments below. I’ll have some more thoughts on the results on Friday or Saturday.
The Celtics and several other teams await the appeals process following a shocking federal court ruling this past week that could allow Class of 2022 players like Dillon Mitchell to return to college for a fifth season. St. John’s would reportedly have a roster spot and interest in Mitchell’s return, according to Adam Zagoria.
Mitchell remains unsigned, another significant factor after a recent challenge by a former NBA player who signed a contract with a team fell flat. The Celtics, who typically leave their 15th roster spot open into the season, probably intended to sign Mitchell, their second-round pick, to a two-way contract worth $678,882 this year. Conversely, name, image and likeness (NIL) deals available to a college star in New York City could reach $1-million in value. For Mitchell, that’s part of the appeal of returning to college.
Mitchell’s return to college differs from a traditional draft-and-stash setup, because the CBA outlines a professional contract outside of the league as the pretense for a team indefinitely maintaining a player’s rights. That’s why the Hornets and the Knicks (following a trade) maintained James Nnaji’s rights after the former second-round pick joined Barcelona before successfully returning from draft declaration to college basketball himself last summer. Mitchell’s move would more closely mirror a player who decided to sit out one season rather than sign with the team that drafted him.
As we await NCAA appeal on ruling that would allow Dillon Mitchell to return to college, many have asked if #Celtics would maintain his rights should he play for St. John's
The answer: it depends. C's need to tender an offer by 9/5. Even then, he could decline & enter '27 draft: pic.twitter.com/N2CLHMnqv5
Of course, Boston and Mitchell, could agree to a contract ahead of that date, and still have the ability to sign a standard contract for this season worth roughly $1.4 million, which would keep the Celtics below the luxury tax threshold. The NCAA also expressed its intention to appeal the court ruling, which could factor in Mitchell’s decision. Returning to college would not only carry that uncertainty, but also push back a year of development within an NBA organization.
Mitchell would begin his professional career in a crowded mix of wings on the Celtics’ roster including Jayson Tatum, Paul George, Sam Hauser, Baylor Scheierman, recently extended Jordan Walsh, Hugo González, Ron Harper Jr. and fellow rookie Chris Cenac Jr., who could play some minutes at the four. The team also signed undrafted rookie Tucker DeVries to a training camp contract. John Tonje, the team’s standout scoring wing during Summer League, left Boston for a two-year, two-way deal with the Trail Blazers.
DeVries has already played five college seasons. Milos Uzan, another Celtics training camp signing from Vegas, could also explore his eligibility for a fifth season.
Rick Pitino and St. John’s, who have a rare open roster spot, will undoubtedly hold out hope for Mitchell’s return after a Sweet 16 run powered, in part, by his emergence as a playmaker. The Celtics can trust that he’ll remain committed to Boston in one year. They expressed some surprise and excitement that Mitchell fell to them at No. 40, Mike Zarren even revealing that Boston considered moving up to acquire him, but the constantly evolving college basketball landscape could make that acquisition too good to be true.
The Celtics have signed 14 standard roster players and have second-year center Amari Williams, Mitchell, Uzan and DeVries in play for two-way deals into training camp late next month.
The Cubs (64-49) won Game 1 of the series versus the Dodgers (69-44), 10-5 behind three two-run homers. Chicago fell behind 3-0 in the first inning but responded with six consecutive runs scored.
Los Angeles acquired Tarik Skubal at the trade deadline and he makes his awaited debut with the Dodgers. Skubal spent part of the year injured but has been red-hot recently. With Detroit, Skubal has a 2.03 ERA in July over five starts with 41 strikeouts, six walks, and a .196 OBA. The Dodgers are the World Series favorites and as expected, the odds shortened after Skubal joined Los Angeles.
Chicago had one of the hottest offenses in July, recording a .266 batting average (4th), the second-most doubles (49), and 139 runs scored (3rd). While the Cubs are only hitting .228 (17th) to start August, the offense was exciting to watch on Monday against the Dodgers. The Cubs hit four home runs, walked in a run, and knocked a single to score 10 runs in the win.
Lets dive into the doubleheader and find a sweat or two.
We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch first pitch, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.
Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.
Game Details and How to Watch: Dodgers vs. Cubs
Date: Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Time: 8:05PM EST
Site: Wrigley Field
City: Chicago, IL
Network/Streaming: MLB.TV, TBS
Never miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.
The Latest Odds: Dodgers vs. Cubs
The latest odds as of Tuesday courtesy of DraftKings:
Moneyline: LA Dodgers (-219), Chicago Cubs (+178)
Spread: Dodgers -1.5 (-132), Cubs +1.5 (+109)
Total: 9.0 runs
Probable Starting Pitchers and their Stats: Dodgers vs. Cubs for August 4
· Freddie Freeman is riding a 13-game hitting streak (25-52)
· Kyle Tucker has four hits in nine at-bats over the last four games
· Shohei Ohtani has hit safely in 7 straight games (12-26)
· Nico Hoerner was 3-11 against the Yankees this past weekend
· Pete Crow-Armstrong is hitting .214 against the Dodgers with three hits and six strikeouts over 14 at-bats
Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!
Top Betting Trends & Insights: Dodgers vs. Cubs
The Cubs are 53-60 on the Run Line this season
The Dodgers are 49-64 on the Run Line this season
The OVER has cashed 60 times in Chicago’s 113 games this season (60-52-1)
The OVER has cashed 53 times in LA’s 113 games this season (53-59-1)
Expert picks & predictions: Dodgers vs. Cubs
Rotoworld Bet Best Bet
Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.
Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.
Here are the best bets our model for tonight’s game between the Dodgers and the Cubs:
Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Dodgers on the Moneyline.
Spread: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Dodgers Run Line.
Total: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Game Total UNDER 9.0.
Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:
HOUSTON, TEXAS - MAY 01: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers celebrates the 98-78 win against the Houston Rockets in Game Six of the First Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Toyota Center on May 01, 2026 in Houston, Texas. 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 Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images) | Getty Images
There were a lot of questions about JJ Redick, the scheme the Lakers will run and things more or less related to coaching, which we’ll save for a piece tomorrow. Today, let’s tackle the other questions about Luka Dončić, Walker Kessler, the team’s offseason and potential breakout candidates.
Johnny Tuttle
If we have Luka back at the 4 defensively, does our roster construction suddenly make more sense? Mamu is our backup 5, and Luka’s chances of returning to his old triple double ways increase.
It has certainly been interesting that the Lakers have continually not been linked to any power forwards despite having a glaring hole in that position on paper. In fact, they’ve gone out of their way to push back against a potential option in PJ Washington.
Could we be looking at it wrong, then? Maybe the team is focusing on Luka as a forward rather than a guard on defense, which could make things fall in place. It would resemble the 2019-20 Lakers, where LeBron was the point guard offensively and the four defensively.
Luka is obviously not a great point of attack defender, so moving him far away from that situation makes sense. He’s a good rebounder and putting him near the basket to grab and go would also have benefits.
But, as noted, the fact the team is targeting a wing and not a power forward seems to be one of the biggest indications of the team’s mindset.
alljazz
Luka makes players surrounding him better. How good / better are the Lakers, considering 6-7 players will raise their productivity?
Can we compare the defense aspect / metrics of players that are no longer on roster with those who are?
For the first question, I think that’s something that hasn’t been discussed enough. Particularly when it comes to Walker Kessler, I think playing alongside an elite pick-and-roll ballhandler will be a huge boost. Even Austin Reaves is a great pick-and-roll guard, too. But we’ll talk about Kessler more shortly.
As you noted, though, Luka makes guys around him better. The Lakers seem to be banking on that as none of their signings were high-profile players. It’s a fair bet to make because Luka does make players better.
LA targeted some underutilized players like Sandro Mamukelashvili and Quentin Grimes with hopes of them increasing production. Luka certainly played a role in that calculation. Projecting how good they’ll be, though? That’s tough. I’m really intrigued by someone like Grimes in a bigger role.
As for the second question, I won’t give a player-by-player breakdown, but the Lakers definitely skewed more toward offense in free agency. They moved away Marcus Smart, their best perimeter defender last year, but did bring in Kessler, who should be an above average rim protector.
Outside of that, none of the players who departed or were signed are known for their defense. The Lakers seem more focused on building an elite offense.
OCLakerFan1968
What does Kessler need to do to shut up all of the pundits saying it was a bad trade for the Lakers? Would playing 70+ games with stats just a little better than his career averages do it? 70+ games and improving the team defense to top third in the league? Or something else?
Well, I can tell you that if the end goal is getting pundits to admit they were wrong, it’s a fruitless task.
Him not being an All-Star is something that was mentioned quite a bit after the trade, but being named an All-Star is a bit obvious as a way to prove doubters wrong.
I think being a defensive anchor for a contending team would go a long way in that. If the team is a top-10 defense and Kessler is available for at least 65 games, that would go some way in proving LA right.
I don’t look too much toward the offense because I think Luka can turn just about any serviceable big man into a viable threat in the pick and roll and Kessler is much more than that.
Kilgary
2 Questions:
1. Are there any role players (Smart, Rui, Jax, etc) that you wish the Lakers FO valued more and held onto?
2. Is that all there is or do you think the Lakers will still add a significant ($10m+) piece to the roster before pre-season begins?
I was pretty surprised at how little the Lakers valued a lot of the role players from last year’s team. For example, given how highly they talked about him in the exit interview, I thought it was a certainty Luke Kennard would be back.
I would say I’m surprised they let Marcus Smart leave based purely on the contract he signed. But perhaps the team wasn’t ready to commit multiple years to him considering how banged up he is. They also had a pretty clear mission of getting younger.
That’s also why it was surprising they didn’t bring back Rui. I was a fan of him personally and would have liked for them to bring him back, but I also acknowledge he’s a player with very clear strengths and very clear weaknesses. But it would have definitely been interesting to see him in the starting lineup not alongside LeBron as the pair always felt a little redundant.
After sweeping yesterday's props, we're looking to run it back tonight.
I found two Miami Marlins bats that I think are set for a big night. I also see Orioles slugger Pete Alonso getting the evening started on the right foot.
What if I told you that, when rated elite on Batters-Box, Baltimore Orioles slugger Pete Alonso goes Over 1.5 hits, runs, and RBI 62% of the time? That's across 137 elite-rated games over the last three seasons.
Want more? In 58 elite-rated home games during that same span, he's gone Over this prop nearly 70% of the time.
Tonight, Alonso draws a mouthwatering matchup against Los Angeles Angels right-hander Grayson Rodriguez, who has been tormented by right-handed hitters this season. Across the last 60 right-handed batters he's faced, they've produced a 51.2% hard-hit rate, 19.5% barrel rate, and 68.3% elevation rate. They also own a .386 xBA, .778 xSLG, and .341 ISO during that stretch.
Alonso has also been scorching over his last 10 games, posting a .300 batting average, .318 xBA, 146 wRC+, and .617 SLG. During that span, he's generated a 62.5% hard-hit rate, 15.6% barrel rate, and 84.7% contact rate.
Backing one of the hottest bats in this Orioles lineup is a must tonight. I'd play this down to -150, or look for a boost.
Time: 6:35 p.m. ET
Where to watch: MASN, ABTV
Griffin Conine Over 1.5 hits + runs + RBI (+103)
It's another lovely day to back the son of "Mr. Marlin," Griffin Conine.
The Miami Marlins outfielder draws a great matchup against Atlanta Braves right-hander Grant Holmes. Not only does Conine carry an elite Batters-Box rating, but he also covers nearly 90% of Holmes' pitch mix.
Over his last 10 games, Conine has generated a 70% elevation rate, 60% hard-hit rate, and 15% barrel rate. During that span, he's also posted a 244 wRC+, .508 SLG, and .950 OPS.
Holmes, on the other hand, has struggled over his last three starts, recording a 5.52 ERA, 5.69 xERA, and 1.64 WHIP while allowing a 40% hard-hit rate and 14% barrel rate. The last 30 left-handed hitters he's faced have produced a .377 xBA, .661 xSLG, and .439 ISO.
I think Conine is in a great spot to go over his hits, runs, and RBI prop tonight. Don't pay juice for this one.
Time: 7:15 p.m. ET
Where to watch: BravesVsn, MIAM
Owen Caissie 1+ hits (-154)
We just need the bare minimum from Owen Caissie, who has been just as hot as Conine.
Over his last 60 at-bats against right-handed pitching, Caissie has generated a 53% hard-hit rate and a massive 26.5% barrel rate. On top of that, he's posted a .667 SLG, 1.000 OPS, and .389 ISO.
Caissie enters Tuesday with an elite Batters-Box rating while carrying 53.3% arsenal coverage against Grant Holmes. Even with the lower arsenal coverage, he still owns excellent expected numbers against Holmes' secondary offerings.
Against sliders and curveballs, Caissie has produced at least a .263 xBA while generating 50% hard contact.
Right-handed hitters have also been feasting against Holmes. Over the last 30 right-handed batters he's faced, they've generated a 40% hard-hit rate, 12% barrel rate, and 64% elevation rate. During that stretch, they've also posted a .319 xBA, .614 xSLG, and .362 xwOBA.
Through 14 elite Batters-Box ratings this season, Caissie has recorded at least one hit 64.29% of the time. I'd play this down to -160, but if you can find the same price on Over 0.5 hits, runs, and RBI, I'd rather go that route.
Time: 7:15 p.m. ET
Where to watch: BravesVsn, MIAM
Colby Marchio's 2026 Transparency Record
Prop picks: 359-711, -20.8 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.
Send in your questions now for this week’s episode of The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast to discuss everything Pistons. Submit your question in the comments section here or on Twitter to @TheRealWesD3 and/or @BobbyBuckets313. If you’re on BlueSky, you can also send to @bobbybuckets313.bksy.social.
Join us live on Thursday with guest Sean Murphy as we play an “If, Then” game about cause and effect as we get closer to next season. What predictions/situations would you like us to discuss? What other questions do you have for the podcast?
Plus, The Pindown has a phone line where you can leave a message and hear your voice on the show. Call (313) 355-2717 and leave us a voicemail with your question. Please try to keep the message around 45 seconds or less so we can fit everyone into the show.
The podcast will be uploaded to all audio platforms the following morning.
Fears that action could smooth airflow around the body
Warning came before time-trial stage to Dijon
Riders at the Tour de France Femmes were subject to extra clothing checks before Tuesday’s stage following claims some could be using extra padding in their bras to seek an aerodynamic advantage.
A communique from race organisers confirmed the checks after Dutch outlet Wielerflits reported some teams had raised concerns that padded bras could smooth the airflow around the body for the stage four time trial.
Boston College has dismissed men's basketball radio broadcasters Kevin Collins and Josh Maurer ahead of the 2026-27 season.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Aug. 3, Collins said he and Maurer were dismissed from their roles on July 30, ending a multi-year partnership for the broadcasting duo. Collins had called Eagles games the past 13 seasons.
"To say I am gutted would be an understatement. My (13-plus) year BC career spans 378 games, 3 coaches, and 4 athletic directors. Broadcasting BC Basketball was my dream job," Collins said in a statement. "... I owe a tremendous amount of gratitude to Mike Winn, who supported me tirelessly as I grew in this industry. My partner, Josh Maurer, I love like a brother.
"Josh empowered me as an on-air broadcaster and for his faith in me, I am forever in his debt. Thanks to BC Nation and all the sicko's that stuck with us every game!"
Easily the hardest tweet of my career. Love you @JoshMaurerPxP and sorry it had to end this way 💔
Huge thanks to Mike Winn, Josh Maurer, and Danya Abrams for supporting and empowering me over the last 13+ years.
Maurer, who additionally serves as a play-by-play radio broadcaster for the Milwaukee Brewers, has not made any public comments.
Awful Announcing reported the decision to fire Collins and Maurer came from Boston College first-year men's basketball coach Luke Murray, who reportedly wanted to remove anyone in the program with ties to the previous coaching staff.
Boston College athletic director Blake James said in a statement to the Field of 68 that administrators made the decision in consultation with their multimedia relations partner, Van Wagner.
"The decision to not renew the contracts of our men’s basketball radio announcers was made by Boston College Athletics administrators in consultation with our MMR partner. We wish both Kevin and Josh the best going forward," James said in a statement.
Boston College has not responded to a request for comment by USA TODAY Sports at the time this story published.
Murray, who had been one of the top assistants at Connecticut under Dan Hurley and helped the Huskies to back-to-back national championships in his tenure, was hired in March to rebuild the Boston College program that has gone 184-290 overall and 73-200 in ACC play over the last 15 seasons.
COVERS INTEL: Rodriguez has pitched better at home, 
Pete Alonso 
Griffin Conine