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Padres’ Gavin Sheets’ torrid pace silences the debate once and for all

San Diego Padres Gavin Sheets (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The San Diego Padres brought Gavin Sheets back on a one-year, $4.5 million contract to avoid salary arbitration. It locked him into becoming the lineup’s top designated hitter option. 

Injuries forced Sheets’ role to change

However, injuries to Jake Cronenworth, Ramon Laureano, and Miquel Andujar forced the Padres to revamp their starting lineup. The biggest move was having Sheets play the corner outfield position full-time. 
He may not have great defensive range, but Sheets can put a glove on balls hit in his direction.

He has dominated the plate by shattering expectations, with a .232 average, 12 home runs, and 33 RBI that should easily eclipse last season’s career numbers, which were .252 with 19 HR and 71 RBI in 145 games.

Sheets has become an RBI machine with RISP

The one change we see in 2026 is Sheets’ production with runners in scoring position. The Friar Faithful are witnessing another season where Sheets is exceeding expectations. The 30-year-old is hitting .366 with 4 HR, 22 RBI, and a 1,227 OPS in runners in scoring position.

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Unfortunately, the lineup is going to need some assistance in scoring runs. Manny Machado has struggled significantly at the plate, posting a .179 BA, but he has shown signs of busting out of his season-long slumber. 

The rise in his production with runners in scoring position has been aided by the insertion of Sheets in the five spot of the batting order. Machado is hitting .259 with 2 HR and 18 RBI. Sheets continued his torrid pace, hitting .357 with a .762 slugging percentage.

New offensive outlook

The hope is for the top of the order to get on base via walk or a bunt base hit. Then, keep the line moving for the lineup’s big hitters. Each is clutch to knock in runs late in games. 

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Combined, Machado and Sheets had 90 ABs in the same inning. They hit .256 with 4 HR and 40 RBI. Sheets is dominating the partnership by capitalizing on each scoring situation. Machado’s production is on the rise, but it may take him a little time to reach his career average of .275 with runners in scoring position.

The Friars need to put themselves in better hitting situations. Hopefully, it leads to more run production.

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2026 Phillies MLB Draft Preview: Aiden Ruiz, SS

Jul 13, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; A general view of the stage before the MLB Draft at The Coca-Cola Roxy. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images | Brett Davis-Imagn Images

I haven’t seen any mocks sending Ruiz to the Phillies or any rumors reported on interest from the Phillies, but it’s hard to miss the similarities to picks during the Barber/Mattingly/Dombrowski regime. Ruiz is old for the class (turned 19 in March), is an up the middle defender, has a contact over power approach, but with the swing speed to suggest he could get to some power, and from an area that’s decidedly not a baseball hot bed. That’s basically the exact description of Dante Nori and not far from descriptions of Justin Crawford and Aiden Miller (in Miller’s case his lack of power in High School was injury related). As I’ve said in other previews this year, when picking so low in the First Round (Comp round even, at this point) you have to pick your poison of what flaws you want to gamble on: perceived injury risk (Wood), age relative to peers (Nori, Miller), lack of power (Miller, Crawford, Nori), cold climate (Nori), etc. I’m banking this preview on them looking at Ruiz similarly to their view of Nori.

Ruiz’s overall profile is a 5’10”, 165 lbs, natural Shortstop with smooth actions and plenty of arm, switch hitting bat and line drive gap power from The Stony Brook School in New York. He’s a Vanderbilt commit, so there is some risk he decides not to sign and goes to College where he’d be a draft eligible Sophomore. His profile is actually very reminiscent of Bryan Rincon, who’s having a bit of a breakout season this year. Ruiz was projected pre-season to be closer to a possible top 10 pick, but hasn’t shown any real improvement to in-game power (he shows it in BP, but prospect history is littered with guys who had plenty of BP power and nothing in-game), while other players have. His carrying tool is going to be his glove, which is best in class. He makes all the routine plays and stays under control, but also make acrobatic, highlight-reel quality plays that have earned him plenty of raves. Thanks to his glove he’ll stand a very good chance of at least getting to the MLB level as a glove first bench player. He’s an average runner, who will get some stolen bases, but not really be a weapon in that part of his game. And his arm is a plus weapon allowing him to play multiple positions, if needed down the line.

Switch hitters are double the fun from a draft profile perspective, as you get 2 different swings to analyze, but we’ll start with the basics that apply to both swings. Both swings are mostly line drive oriented and Ruiz rarely swings and misses from either side of the plate. Now for the individual swings his left handed swing shows more pop and better bat speed (that’s good, he’ll use that one more). One notable point is how similar his right and left swings are. For both he sets up with VERY high hands, almost over his head, with some lateral bat wiggle, a small leg kick and short, well-timed stride into his contact zone. I’d love to see if he can bring the hands down some and drop the bat less to shorten his path. That’s a minor quibble and his swing overall looks very smooth and you don’t need tons of power out of him with that glove and plus contact ability. Video below shows a bit of everything in non-game settings.

This video is a very similar vein of workout/showcase video. with a little view from behind the plate in addition.

This pick would feel a lot like the Nori pick as a high floor-lower ceiling gamble. We’re basically a round 2 pick and this is pretty consistent with the profile of the guys you’d be excited about in round 2.

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Brandon Marsh is on pace to start the All Star Game

Phillies fans, there’s good news and there’s bad news.

The good news is, you’re killing it in your efforts to elect Brandon Marsh to a starting outfield spot on the National League All Star team.

In voting released by the league Monday, Marsh’s 1.256 million votes are second-most among NL outfielders, trailing only the Dodgers’ Andy Pages, who has compiled 1.518 million votes, and is slightly more than Atlanta’s Ronald Acuna and his 1.216 million votes.

The top-three vote getters will be named NL All Star Game starters, and Marsh is well positioned to do that. He has slightly more than a 200,000 vote edge on the Braves’ Michael Harris II, at 1.059 million votes.

The top six outfielders advance to the second round of voting. At every other position, the the top-two vote getters advance to the second round. Marsh will certainly move onto the next round of the balloting, and has the inside track on landing a starting spot in the outfield.

So, great job, guys! Stuffing the ballot box for Marsh, whose .311 batting average entering play on Tuesday ranks 2nd among NL outfielders (San Francisco’s Jung Hoo Lee, .327), and is sporting a .344 OBP and an OPS of .899. In celebration, Marsh hit his 10th homer of the season for the Phillies’ lone run in their 4-1 loss to the Nationals in Washington.

Here’s the bad news. Much work remains to get Bryce Harper to the next round of the voting.

Harper currently ranks 3rd among all NL first basemen, with 1.143 million votes. He trails Atlanta’s Matt Olson by a little less than 300,000 votes (1.421 million) and is well behind L.A.’s Freddie Freeman (1.779 million), despite leading all NL first basemen in OPS. His .897 OPS is 20 points better than Olson’s .877.

Elsewhere, a few Phils do appear poised to stay on the ballot for the second round.

At third base, Alec Bohm surprisingly has the second-most votes (804,309) in the NL. He’s well ahead of Atlanta’s Austin Riley (572,816), although there’s no drama as to who will actually start for the All Star team, with the Dodgers’ Max Muncy dominating the field (1.933 million votes).

At second, Bryson Stott is also in position to move onto the second round (801,006) trailing Atlanta’s Ozzie Albies by 171,000 votes (972,537). There is a real chance Stott could jump ahead of Albies, but only if Phillies fans make a concerted effort to make it happen. Stott’s .674 OPS ranks just 11th among qualified NL second baseman, but who cares about a small detail like that?

The last Phillie in position to make the second round is MLB’s home run leader, Kyle Schwarber. He’s second among NL designated hitters with 1.54 million votes. Unfortunately, he trails the very best baseball player the human race has ever seen, Shohei Ohtani, whose 2.31 million votes leads all vote-getters in any category. But have no fear, Schwarber will be there, just not in the starting lineup.

Unfortunately, Trea Turner’s awful start has torpedoed his chances of moving on among shortstops. One could argue he shouldn’t even be fourth on the list, trailing only Elly De La Cruz, Mookie Betts and CJ Abrams. And among catchers, J.T. Realmuto currently sits in 3rd (829,868 votes), trailing the Dodgers’ Will Smith for 2nd by 460,000 votes.

So fans, there is work left to do.

Get Brandon Marsh across the finish line.

Get Bryce Harper into the first base finals.

Get Bryson Stott into the starting lineup.

And hey, while we’re at it, let’s shock the world and make Kyle Schwarber the starting DH in the National League.

It’s part of your civic duty as the nation celebrates its 250th birthday. You love the Constitution, don’t you?

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Senators Announce Schedule For Prospects Challenge In Gatineau

After the Brady Tkachuk trade whirlwind over the last 48 hours, the Senators began the process of moving forward on Tuesday morning, getting back to the usual business of running their hockey team. That includes trade talks, and getting for Friday and Saturday's NHL draft and the opening of free agency a week from Wednesday.

It also includes scheduling for next season.

The Senators announced the schedule for the 2026 NHL Prospects Challenge to be held in mid-September at the Slush Puppie Centre in Gatineau. Holding the event at the 4000 arena is part of a renewed effort by the Senators to better connect with hockey fans on the Quebec side.

On the latest Sens Nation Podcast, Steve Warne and Gregg Kennedy discuss the Brady Tkachuk deal.

The teams mixing it up with the Sens prospects will be all-Canadian: the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, and Winnipeg Jets. The Senators won't play the Jets, but they will face the Leafs at 6 p.m. on Sept. 12 and the Canadiens at 6 p.m. on Sept. 13.

Tickets will go on sale to the general public this Monday, June 29, at 10 a.m., but season ticket holders can cut the line and get them this Friday, June 26.

The Sens aren't in a position to announce their prospects roster until they get through the busy part of their offseason. For example, they have three first-round picks in this Friday's NHL Draft – the 9th, 25th, and 32nd overall picks. If they don't trade those picks this week, there could be some exciting, very fresh new talent skating at this event.

Players who participated last year include Carter Yakemchuk, Stephen Halliday, Jorian Donovan, and Xavier Bourgault. The two names featured on the team's social media promotion are goalie Lucas Beckman, who helped lead Chicoutimi to the Memorial Cup, and forward Blake Montgomery, who helped Wisconsin get to the Frozen Four Final.

Former NHL player Sam Gagner is in his second season as the Senators' Director of Player Development and thinks it's helpful for the top prospects before they face the top of the Senators' food chain at main camp.

“I think it's a great opportunity for these players to get off on the right foot, heading into main camp," Gagner said on the club's website. "I saw what it did for Carter Yakemchuk last year, having such a great rookie camp, and going into main camp."

By Steve Warne
The Hockey News 

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Elephant Rumblings: A’s Back In Bay Area

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 15: Aaron Civale #45 of the Athletics pitches in the top of the fourth inning against the San Francisco Giants at Sutter Health Park on May 15, 2026 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Justine Willard/Athletics/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Happy Tuesday A’s fans!

The Athletics’ just wrapped up a disappointing series against the division-rival Angels this past weekend. The A’s split the four-game set, but they let the series finale split through their fingers. It’s not the end of the world, but it’s tough to drop those games against a lesser opponent that has one of the worst records in the sport.

Time to flush it and get ready for the Giants. The A’s are back in their old stomping grounds as we have three games set to get going over the next few days. The Giants, like the Angles, are one of the worst teams in the league and likely sellers next month. The A’s can’t afford to be letting games like this go if they want to stick in the playoff hunt into September.

The Giants haven’t had a great season so far. Led by a rookie manager in Tony Vitello with no professional experience, the Giants’ veteran-led roster has disappointed on and off the field. At 31-46 they’re just one game ahead of the Colorado Rockies for the worst record in the entiresport. It’s not as if they haven’t tried as their $231.9 million payroll sits at 11th in baseball. A huge part of their problems can be attributed to the struggles of their most expensive players, Willy Adames, Rafael Devers, and old friend of the Green & Gold Matt Chapman. The recent controversy regarding the players’ wearing the Pride Hat has also now caused fans even more stress as the focus has turned off the field (including the Vice President’s view on the matter).

It hasn’t been all sadness and rain for the Giants. Star prospect Bryce Eldridge looks like the real deal as he’s finally being given a chance to play at the big league level. Swiss army knife Casey Schmitt is in the midst of a breakout year at the plate with 16 long balls. Second baseman Luis Arraez has rediscovered his defense while being coached under another former friend in Ron Washington. Outfielder Jung-hoo Lee is second in all of baseball with a .320 batting average. And former Athletics’ first round pick Daniel Susac has held his own as one of the main catching options.

Perhaps more disappointing than the offense has been the pitching, which has always been a strength for them pitching in that cavernous ballpark. Staff ace Logan Webb has pitched well, but outside of him their starting rotation has been roughed up. The group’s 4.63 ERA is ahead of only the Rockies and Mets in the National League. Landon Roupp and Robbie Ray haven’t been dominant but have held their own, but offseason pickups Tyler Mahle and Adrian Houser have been problems for them on the backend, so much so that Houser is now in the bullpen after inking a two-year, $22 million deal this winter. Not the return on investment they were likely hoping for.

Luckily for the A’s they’ll miss Webb during this series. Tonight’s starting matchup will pit veterans Aaron Civale and Ray. Ray has a lower ERA on the season but Civale was pitching fantastically before some recent struggles made his overall stat line look worse. Then it’ll be the rookie Gage Jump making his first start at Oracle Park, and he’ll be opposed by Mahle. And then the series wraps on Thursday afternoon with a pitching duel between lefty Jeffrey Springs and the right-handed Roupp.

First pitch is at 6:45 tonight. We’re just a game and a half back of the Mariners for the AL West lead. Gotta rack up a couple wins, at least. Have a great day everyone.

A’s Coverage:

MLB News and Interest:

Best of X:

Anyone on this list off the table for you?

Refering to Jack Perkins:

That’s something most A’s fans would have been able to tell you:

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NBA Mock Draft, Volume 4: AJ Dybantsa remains Wizards' pick; Bucks add Yaxel Lendeborg after Giannis trade

Just over a week after the 2025-26 season concluded, and one day removed from two significant trades, the 2026 NBA Draft will begin in Brooklyn on Tuesday. Given the moves that have already occurred, we could be in for a wild two days.

Since the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade won't become official until the new league year begins on July 6, the Miami Heat will essentially be picking for the Milwaukee Bucks when they're on the clock at pick No. 13. That can also be said for the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are sending the No. 28 pick to Brooklyn as part of the Julius Randle trade, with the Nets receiving the No. 33 pick (Chicago receives Nic Claxton from Brooklyn).

While the top of the draft is unlikely to be affected by these moves, that won't be the case later in the first round. NBC Sports' Kurt Helin and Raphielle Johnson reveal their final picks for the two-round draft, with no changes in their Top 5.

First Round

1. Washington Wizards: G/F AJ Dybantsa, BYU

Consider this a lock. With Washington signing Trae Young to a massive new contract as its point guard, and with Darryn Peterson admitting he met with the Jazz last weekend, all signs now point to Dybantsa going No. 1. Which is the right call; Dybantsa has all the makings of a franchise cornerstone player. He is a 6-foot-9 wing who can score from all three levels and lit up college basketball last season. He can hit tough shots, but is also considered a locker room leader — all things Washington needs. - Kurt Helin

2. Utah Jazz: G Darryn Peterson, Kansas

While Peterson only worked out for the Wizards during the pre-draft process, he recently met with Jazz decision-makers and has said all the right things about his willingness to play anywhere. How head coach Will Hardy juggles a perimeter rotation currently headlined by Keyonte George remains to be seen, but Peterson's scoring ability is too good to pass up. - Raphielle Johnson

3. Memphis Grizzlies: F Cameron Boozer, Duke

This is a huge win for Memphis — Boozer represents a new beginning for a franchise that is moving on from the Ja Morant era. The Grizzlies land a potential franchise cornerstone big man — and the guy with the highest floor among the top three picks — who can score inside or on the perimeter, is strong on the glass, and will be a good four next to Zach Edey at the five. - Helin

4. Chicago Bulls: F Caleb Wilson, North Carolina

While the Nic Claxton trade won't become official until the start of the new league year, his addition is the first step for a franchise in dire need of a frontcourt upgrade. Wilson, who is no consolation prize in this spot, would be the next. With his lone college season cut short by a hand injury, he has the potential to be the best player in this draft class. And it should be fun to watch Wilson play alongside Matas Buzelis, with Josh Giddey pulling the strings. - Johnson

5. LA Clippers (from Indiana): G Keaton Wagler, Illinois

The Clippers may trade this pick, or they could surprise people by taking Louisville's Mikel Brown, whom they are reportedly considering. Wagler seems the best fit, however, a 6-5 guard who gives the Clippers some size and shooting next to Darius Garland in the backcourt. If Wagler wants to stay on the court for Ty Lue, his defense is going to have to get better. - Helin

6. Brooklyn Nets: G Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville

While Egor Dëmin had his moments last season, neither he nor fellow rookie guards Nolan Traoré or Ben Saraf played well enough to dissuade the Nets from considering a guard in this spot. Like Peterson, Brown's availability last season raised some questions going into the pre-draft season, but the upside is too high to pass up. And at 6-foot-5, he has good size for a lead guard. - Johnson

7. Sacramento Kings: G Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas

Sacramento gets its man. The Kings need a star talent both on the court and someone for a long-suffering fan base to rally around, and the offensively dynamic Acuff can be that guy. He is an elite shot creator and scorer — he has Damian Lillard offensive potential, but he also has Lillard's defense. - Helin

8. Atlanta Hawks (from New Orleans): G Kingston Flemings, Houston

The Hawks have their starting backcourt locked in, with Nickeil Alexander-Walker and CJ McCollum under contract for next season. However, there is a need for depth, especially amongst potential ball-handlers. Flemings can fill the void, and he is also a good defender. While he may not start immediately in Atlanta, playing time would not be an issue for Flemings if he were the pick. - Johnson

9. Dallas Mavericks: C Aday Mara, Michigan

Dallas hired Dusty May from Michigan as its head coach; now the Mavericks are drafting one of his star players. Mara has climbed team draft boards because he is a big body who can defend the paint, is a good passer and shows promise in developing an outside shot. Mara could be a Brook Lopez type, and as much as Dallas has a solid front line, Mara gives them someone on Cooper Flagg's timeline. - Helin

10. Milwaukee Bucks: F Nate Ament, Tennessee

With the Giannis Antetokounmpo era reaching its conclusion, whoever the Bucks select here will play a significant role in the team's rebuild. Ament has been connected to the franchise for quite some time, and this spot likely represents his floor. The 6-foot-10 forward is a capable scorer on all three levels, and there should be no lack of opportunities with Milwaukee's change in direction as a franchise. - Johnson

11. Golden State Warriors: G Brayden Burries, Arizona

Golden State isn't looking for a guard, but if Burries falls all the way to No. 11, there is no way they can pass him up. He's a quality perimeter defender, physical, and can score from all three levels — he's going to be a good fit on any team, but he brings a lot of things the Warriors could use. - Helin

12. Oklahoma City Thunder (from LA Clippers): F/C Morez Johnson Jr., Michigan

Even if the Thunder bring back Isaiah Hartenstein, it never hurts to add a little more size to the frontcourt when you'll have to deal with Victor Wembanyama for years to come. Johnson is arguably the best frontcourt defender in this draft class, and he can be used at either the four or the five. However, the bigger question is whether the Thunder hold on to this pick, as they could use their two first-round picks to move up in the order. - Johnson

13. Miami Heat: F Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan

With the reported Antetokounmpo trade, Miami will be making this pick for Milwaukee. Lendeborg is older (almost 24 years old) but is an elite defender who also has proven he can be a finisher while helping Michigan to a national title. He's plug-and-play for a team looking for help at the four. - Helin

14. Charlotte Hornets: C Hannes Steinbach, Washington

Despite the emergence of Moussa Diabaté and Ryan Kalkbrenner's solid rookie campaign, the Hornets still need additional frontcourt depth. Steinbach would certainly fit in that regard. He has excellent hands and is one of the best rebounders in this draft class. - Johnson

15. Chicago Bulls (from Portland): G Labaron Philon Jr., Alabama

A team can't have too much shot creation in the modern NBA, and while Chicago has put the ball in the hands of Josh Giddey, he could use some help. Enter Philon, who is a high-IQ, very skilled player who can run a team and get buckets. What Philon's ceiling as a player turns out to be is up for debate, but he has the kind of skill that should lead to a long NBA career. - Helin

16. Memphis Grizzlies (from Phoenix via Orlando): G Christian Anderson Jr., Texas Tech

For all the attention being paid to Giannis Antetokounmpo and his move to Miami, the Grizzlies have yet to move on from Ja Morant. Is that relationship at the point of no return? Regardless of the answer, the Grizzlies need perimeter depth, preferably someone who can consistently hit perimeter shots. Anderson is one of the best shooters in the class, so he would fit. - Johnson

17. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Philadelphia): F Koa Peat, Arizona

Peat is a bit of a project, but he has all the physical tools; he needs to develop them. No team in the league is better at player development right now than the Thunder. The questions with Peat start with his jump shot — it is not good — but he's physical and defends. Peat could not have landed in a better spot to start his career. - Helin

18. Charlotte Hornets (from Orlando via Phoenix): G/F Cameron Carr, Baylor

Carr has reportedly been on the Hornets' radar during the pre-draft process, and adding him would give the team welcome versatility on the wing. And that could become increasingly important if Charlotte can't re-sign Coby White and moves on from Miles Bridges via trade. - Johnson

19. Toronto Raptors: F Karim Lopez, New Zealand Breakers

Lopez has potential, but he's a development project for whatever team takes him. Lopez was strong on the boards in New Zealand and can drive the lane, but in the NBA, he's got to be more of a shooter who can attack the rim on closeouts, and he has to defend better. Toronto has a fairly full roster of quality rotation players; it can afford to be patient. - Helin

20. San Antonio Spurs (from Atlanta): G/F Dailyn Swain, Texas

The Spurs have reached a point where adding low-cost contributors will be key since some key players are in line for contract extensions in the near future. Swain is a physical wing who can break down defenses off the dribble. His perimeter shot does need to improve, but there's a lot to like about him as a prospect. - Johnson

21. Detroit Pistons (from Minnesota): G Bennett Stirtz, Iowa

Detroit needs more shooting, and Stirtz can do that; plus, for the Hawkeyes, he showed he knows how to be a floor general. There are questions about his athleticism at the next level, but if he's playing behind Cade Cunningham and giving them solid minutes, that's a win in Detroit. - Helin

22. Philadelphia 76ers (from Houston via Oklahoma City): C Chris Cenac, Houston

Given Joel Embiid's injury history and Andre Drummond set to hit free agency, adding a young post player would not be a bad idea for Philadelphia. Cenac improved throughout his freshman season at Houston, and defending and bringing the required energy should not be an issue after playing for Kelvin Sampson. He'll need some time to develop offensively, but that should not be a major issue for the 76ers in the short term. - Johnson

23. Atlanta Hawks (from Cleveland): F Allen Graves, Santa Clara

Kind of a project for Atlanta, but one that could be a real fit. He's a high-IQ player who is a favorite of the analytics set because he helps a team win the possession game with his skill set, but there are questions about how he will handle the jump in level to the NBA. Graves may take a little time to develop, but Quin Snyder has done well developing and playing forwards with good tools in the past. - Helin

24. New York Knicks: C Henri Veesaar, North Carolina

Between Veesaar, UConn's Tarris Reed Jr. and St. John's Zuby Ejiofor, the Knicks should have solid options to choose from if they look to add another post player in this draft. Veesaar's ability to stretch the floor makes him the pick here. However, it would be unsurprising if the Knicks moved either this or the 31st overall pick to save some money. Mitchell Robinson and Landry Shamet are among the players who will be free agents this summer. - Johnson

25. Los Angeles Lakers: C Tarris Reed Jr., UConn

It's no secret that the Lakers need to get better at the center position (Luka Doncic said it should be the team's top priority), and while Reed is not the bouncy big man Los Angeles wants to start, he would make a fantastic backup. He's good on the glass, moves the ball well as a passer and finishes around the rim. - Helin

26. Denver Nuggets: G/F Isaiah Evans, Duke

With Christian Braun and Cameron Johnson being mentioned in trade rumors, could the Nuggets look to add another wing via the draft? If so, Evans is one of the better perimeter shooters in this class, and he has the athleticism and length needed to be a factor defensively. - Johnson

27. Boston Celtics: F Joshua Jefferson, Iowa State

There is a lot to like about Jefferson's feel for the game and the way he can do a little bit of everything — he can defend, he can pass, he can do whatever is called for. Those are the kind of role players who have thrived with these Celtics, regardless of who the stars at the top of the marquee are. - Helin

28. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Detroit): C Jayden Quaintance, Kentucky

With the Timberwolves reportedly sending this pick and Julius Randle to Brooklyn as part of a three-team trade that includes Chicago when the new league year opens on July 6, whoever is taken here will be headed to the Nets. And with Brooklyn sending Nic Claxton to Chicago in this deal, Quaintance would make some sense. There are concerns regarding his knee, but his upside as a finisher and rim protector is undeniable if the medicals check out. - Johnson

29. Cleveland Cavaliers (from San Antonio via Atlanta): G/F Richie Saunders, BYU

Every team can use more shooting, and Cleveland is no exception. Saunders is a quality shooter who can do enough else to look like he could be a solid rotation wing player in the NBA (as long as his knee is healthy). He's also older (25), and the Cavs will want him to contribute immediately; Saunders is not a development project. - Helin

30. Dallas Mavericks (from Oklahoma City via Washington and Philadelphia): G Meleek Thomas, Arkansas

Regardless of what the Mavericks do with the ninth overall pick, they will still need additional depth on the wing. If Thomas is available this late in the first round, that would be incredibly good fortune for Masai Ujiri in his first draft as the Mavericks' lead executive. Thomas is an excellent perimeter shooter, making him a good fit next to Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving. - Johnson

Second Round

31. New York Knicks (from Washington via Oklahoma City and Houston): G Ebuka Okorie, Stanford

32. Memphis Grizzlies (from Indiana via Milwaukee): G/F Sergio De Larrea, Valencia (Spain)

33. Brooklyn Nets: C Zuby Ejiofor, St. John's

34. Sacramento Kings: F Baba Miller, Cincinnati

35. San Antonio Spurs (from Utah via Minnesota): F Alex Karaban, UConn

36. LA Clippers (from Memphis via Atlanta and Utah): F/C Izaiyah Nelson, South Florida

37. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Dallas): F/C Maliq Brown, Duke

38. Chicago Bulls (from New Orleans via Boston, Detroit, and Portland): G Emanuel Sharp, Houston

39. Houston Rockets (from Chicago via Washington): G Braden Smith, Purdue

40. Boston Celtics (from Milwaukee via Orlando): G Jack Kayil, Alba Berlin (Germany)

41. Miami Heat (from Golden State via Charlotte, New York, Oklahoma City, and Atlanta): G Ryan Conwell, Louisville

42. San Antonio Spurs (from Portland via New Orleans): F Dillon Mitchell, St. John's

43. Brooklyn Nets (from LA Clippers via Houston): G Bruce Thornton, Ohio State

44. San Antonio Spurs (from Miami via Indiana): C Ugonna Onyenso, Virginia

45. Sacramento Kings (from Charlotte via San Antonio, Atlanta, and New York): C Felix Okpara, Tennessee

46. Orlando Magic: G Vsevolod Ishchenko, Lokomotiv Kuban (Russia)

47. Phoenix Suns (from Philadelphia via Houston and Oklahoma City): G Jaden Bradley, Arizona

48. Dallas Mavericks (from Phoenix via Washington): G Ja'Kobi Gillespie, Tennessee

49. Denver Nuggets (from Atlanta via Brooklyn and Golden State): F Trevon Brazile, Arkansas

50. Toronto Raptors: F/C Tyler Bilodeau, UCLA

51. Washington Wizards (from Minnesota via Detroit and New York): G Noam Yaacov, Oostende (Belgium)

52. LA Clippers (from Cleveland): G/F Tyler Nickel, Vanderbilt

53. Houston Rockets: F Tobi Lawal, Virginia Tech

54. Golden State Warriors (from Los Angeles Lakers via Toronto, Miami, and Cleveland): G Nick Boyd, Wisconsin

55. New York Knicks: G Quadir Copeland, NC State

56. Chicago Bulls (from Denver via Minnesota, Phoenix, Charlotte, and Phoenix): F Nick Martinelli, Northwestern

57. Atlanta Hawks (from Boston): G/F Tobias Jensen, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)

58. New Orleans Pelicans (from Detroit via New York, Brooklyn, Phoenix, Orlando, and LA Clippers): F Bryce Hopkins, St. John's

59. Minnesota Timberwolves (from San Antonio via Indiana): G Tamin Lipsey, Iowa State

60. Washington Wizards (from Oklahoma City via San Antonio and Miami): G Milos Uzan, Houston

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Rays Reacts Survey: How will the Rays improve?

WEST PALM BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 17: Tampa Bay Rays General Manager Erik Neander speaks to the media during the Grapefruit League media availability on Sunday, February 17, 2019 at the Hilton West Palm Beach in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Mary DeCicco/MLB via Getty Images) | MLB via Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Rays fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

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2026 NBA Draft Odds, Betting: Predictions, best bets, lines including the Knicks' pick

The 2026 NBA Draft Class is as deep and talented as any class in at least the last decade. Tonight at Barclay’s Center in Brooklyn, New York you will hear names called that will at least pepper if not outright own headlines across the league for years to come. But in what order will these future stars be called? That is the question bettors are asking themselves.

The first four names to be called are expected to be AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cam Boozer, and Caleb Wilson in that order to Washington, Utah, Memphis, and Chicago, respectively. The odds at DraftKings reflect those names in that order.

Odds to be the No. 1 Pick in the NBA Draft

Dybantsa (-700), Peterson (+600), Boozer (+4000), Wilson (+10000)

Odds to be the No. 2 Pick in the NBA Draft

Peterson (-250), Boozer (+330), Dybantsa (+650), Wilson (+5000)

Odds to be the No. 3 Pick in the NBA Draft

Boozer (-260), Peterson (+340), Wilson (+900), Dybantsa (+2800)

Odds to be the No, 4 Pick in the NBA Draft

Wilson (-750), Boozer (+650), Peterson (+2500), Darius Acuff Jr. (+2500)

Peterson has been the lightning rod of the four as his refusal to work out for anyone other than the Wizards has raised more than a few eyebrows especially coming on the heels of the tumultuous season he had at Kansas: flashes of brilliance along with extended inactivity. However, as a point of reference, Ace Bailey refused to work out for the Jazz last Spring and Utah still drafted him. Danny Ainge and the Jazz will draft Peterson if he is available and at the top of their draftboard when their pick is on the clock. But assuming Dybantsa goes first overall, is Peterson next on Utah’s board? As noted above, the books believe he is by margin.
So where does the Draft intrigue really begin? Pick 5 appears to be Keaton Wagler (+155) to the Clippers with Mikel Brown Jr. (+240) and Darius Acuff Jr. (+450) listed next on the odds board.

Here is a trio of plays that might be worth a little pizza money to sweat.

Pick No. 6: Brooklyn Nets

News Flash! The Nets need talent. Five first round picks last year and none landed on an All-NBA Rookie team. Not good. Any or all of those players may yet develop into a key contributor so let’s be optimistic for them and call it a late-blooming draft. Regardless, do they continue to go all in on the highest ceiling in that next tier and draft a Nate Ament (+800)? Or do they take the diminutive Darius Acuff Jr. (+260) who may be more limited long-term, but who can get buckets now as he proved at Arkansas this past March? DraftKings believes they will look to get a little of both and take Mikel Brown Jr. (+170) out of Louisville.
The Nets are leaning into the Knicks’ playbook. Reset the culture with Julius Randle. Next, find a smallish guard with a chip on his shoulder. Sweat Darius Acuff Jr. (+260) as the pick going to Brooklyn.

Pick No. 9: Dallas Mavericks

The news of Dusty May leaving the Michigan Wolverines to join Cooper Flagg in Dallas plays into this selection. May saw firsthand many of the top talents in this year’s draft. He saw none more frequently than Aday Mara (+425) and Morez Johnson Jr. (+650). We will sweat the pick and bank on the fact that May believes the 7’3” Mara will be limited in terms of how many minutes he can offer each night and instead will pivot to his teammate Morez Johnson Jr. (+650). He is rising up draftboards due to the combination of his size and athleticism. No doubt he and Flagg could run the pick and roll for a decade in Dallas.

Pick No. 24: New York Knicks

Its always fun to prognosticate about the defending champs no matter the year. Are they all in on defending their title or do they have cap issues to contend with? Specific to this year’s champs, Jalen Brunson taking less money to help get the Big Apple its first chip since 1973 worked and it will help this offseason as well as the longest-tenured Knick, Mitchell Robinson, is a free agent. The oft-injured big is a favorite in the locker room but what is his actual value? Is he healthy enough often enough to afford giving him a bump in salary? At a minimum they need to groom someone who can fill in for Mitchell even if they resign him knowing the next injury is moments away. The fervor for the Knicks in Manhattan continues to build with the selection of Zuby Ejiofor (+425) at No. 24. The former St. John’s captain fits the makeup of the Knicks perfectly and fills a need.

Should news leak from front offices today, there may be other opportunities in the market. Regardless, enjoy the NBA Draft and enjoy the sweat.

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Tomljanovic accuses anti-doping chiefs of being out to get players after Vondrousova ban

  • Australian veteran says four-year ban is a ‘disgrace’

  • ITIA says strong testing means unpredictable timing

Ajla Tomljanovic has described the lengthy doping ban administered to Marketa Vondrousova, the 2023 Wimbledon singles champion, as a disgrace and has accused the ­tennis anti-doping authorities of being out to get players even when they have done nothing wrong.

The International Tennis ­Integrity Agency announced on Monday that Vondrousova had been handed a four‑year suspension by an independent tribunal after the Czech player had refused to provide a sample to a doping control officer at her home last December at around 8pm.

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Sharks trade William Eklund to Senators, add third 2026 first-round draft pick

Sharks trade William Eklund to Senators, add third 2026 first-round draft pick originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The Sharks now have three first-round picks in Friday’s 2026 NHL Draft, and that’s because they just shipped out a former top selection.

San Jose has traded forwards William Eklund, Kasper Halttunen and Brandon Svoboda to the Ottawa Senators for the No. 9 overall pick in Friday’s draft.

The Sharks now have the No. 2, No. 9 and No. 27 selections in the first round.

It’s the second trade the Sharks have made in recent weeks involving a first-round selection.

Last Wednesday, San Jose sent the No. 20 overall selection to the Buffalo Sabres for defenseman Michael Kesselring and the No. 27 pick.

Eklund was the No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft and established himself as an everyday player during the 2023-24 season.

In three full seasons and parts of two others, Eklund recorded 50 goals and 113 assists in 252 games. He was a minus-91 during his time in San Jose.

With three first-round picks in hand, it’s unclear whether general manager Mike Grier plans to use all of them Friday or package some of them for an established player. But he spoke to reporters on Tuesday and said there is legitimate interest in the No. 2 overall pick.

So Grier and the Sharks might not be done wheeling and dealing with roughly 72 hours until the draft.

Download and follow the San Jose Hockey Now podcast

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Sharks trade William Eklund to Senators, add third 2026 first-round draft pick

Sharks trade William Eklund to Senators, add third 2026 first-round draft pick originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The Sharks now have three first-round picks in Friday’s 2026 NHL Draft, and that’s because they just shipped out a former top selection.

San Jose has traded forwards William Eklund, Kasper Halttunen and Brandon Svoboda to the Ottawa Senators for the No. 9 overall pick in Friday’s draft.

The Sharks now have the No. 2, No. 9 and No. 27 selections in the first round.

It’s the second trade the Sharks have made in recent weeks involving a first-round selection.

Last Wednesday, San Jose sent the No. 20 overall selection to the Buffalo Sabres for defenseman Michael Kesselring and the No. 27 pick.

Eklund was the No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft and established himself as an everyday player during the 2023-24 season.

In three full seasons and parts of two others, Eklund recorded 50 goals and 113 assists in 252 games. He was a minus-91 during his time in San Jose.

With three first-round picks in hand, it’s unclear whether general manager Mike Grier plans to use all of them Friday or package some of them for an established player. But he spoke to reporters on Tuesday and said there is legitimate interest in the No. 2 overall pick.

So Grier and the Sharks might not be done wheeling and dealing with roughly 72 hours until the draft.

Download and follow the San Jose Hockey Now podcast

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SB Nation Reacts Survey: The Returning Astros SP To Have Biggest Impact?

DENVER, CO - APRIL 08: Cristian Javier #53 of the Houston Astros pitches during the game between the Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Casey Paul/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

You can’t tell the story of the Houston Astros the last 3 seasons without addressing their historic amount of injuries, especially to the starting pitching.

Each of the past 2 seasons, the Astros depended on pitchers returning from injury, with less than optimal results.

This season is no different, and the team is counting on several starting pitchers to be able to return from injury and be productive members of the staff.

Among those returning starting pitchers, which one do you believe is likely to have the biggest positive impact on the team?

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Astros fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

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Rockets have a rich person’s problem

“Is this just not our year?”

These are never the words that an NBA fan wants to hear from their general manager. If a team is rebuilding, it goes without saying. If they’re competitive, it’s a brutal concession.

Yet, those were the words that came out of Rafael Stone’s mouth as the 2025-26 NBA trade deadline approached. The Houston Rockets were waving the white flag. That was confirmed when the deadline passed, and they did precisely nothing.

Was that the wrong move?

Rockets smart to hold at deadline

One frustrating quality a lot of fans share is that they seemingly rely on their team to bring them joy in their lives. They need the dopamine rush that comes with the notification: The Houston Rockets have acquired…

When they don’t get it, they’re mad. How could Rafael Stone just sit on his hands? Why did we acquire Kevin Durant if we’re not making a title push? How am I supposed to find the will to live if Coby White isn’t on this roster?

Here’s the problem: White was traded for Collin Sexton, Ousmane Dieng, and three future second-round draft picks. Ayo Dosunmu? Rob Dillingham, Leonard Miller, and four second-round draft picks. Personally, I wanted the Rockets to get Jose Alvarado, but it feels like the Pelicans willingly sent him to his hometown New York Knicks.

That worked out pretty well for him.

You may be thinking: Sure, but the Rockets could have beaten either the White or Dosunmu packages. That is correct. They could have rendered those deals laughable.

They could have traded Alperen Sengun, and/or Amen Thompson for them.

Too much? Agreed. Do me a favor. Load up the trade machine, and identify the package the Rockets could have offered that was more than either the White or Dosunmu package, but less than “too much”.

Exactly.

The Rockets have a rich team’s problem: They (almost) only have premium assets. Houston has enough second-round draft capital to acquire a rotation player, but excluding Alvarado, both of the needle-moving guards that got moved at last year’s deadline fetched more than, say, Dorian Finney-Smith and all the second-round picks the Rockets could legally move.

Seriously. Is Finney-Smith and seven second-rounders (the most Houston can move) a better package than Sexton, Dieng, and four second-rounders? I’d rather take the flyer on Dieng.

Imagine this. Your friend has a Pokémon card (why not?) that he’s looking to sell. It’s worth $25. Your other friend is willing to give him $30 dollars for it, because he really wants it (because you are children, presumably). You also want it, but you only have $100 bills (because you are rich children, apparently), and about ten bucks in change. Do you want it badly enough to fork over $100?

You have enough for the card: In fact, you have too much for the card. That’s Stone’s issue:

So what’s the solution?

Rockets need to stay the course

Exactly what Stone has been doing: Nothing.

The Rockets don’t have a spare player that any team is trading multiple future seconds for. They have young players with first-round value and veterans who are either too integral to the team or not worth multiple future seconds. So, diversifying their portfolio by recouping some second-round equity is out.

Overpaying shouldn’t be an option. The Rockets could have offered Finney-Smith and a future first for White or Dosunmu. They’d have still not won the NBA championship, and now they’d be contemplating whether to keep either White or Dosunmu in free agency, and they’d be down one valuable future first.

Partly, this is a hole Stone dug for himself. He flipped four second-rounders for Steven Adams. That was good. Attaching two second-round picks to Usman Garuba and TyTy Washington just to make space for a Brook Lopez that never was, was not. The Rockets also moved a pile of second-rounders for Durant, which is hard to argue with.

It feels myopic to hold Stone’s feet to the fire over the two second-rounders he wasted on Garuba et al. The reality is that Stone has (mostly) already used the bulk of his second-rounders (relatively) well.

He’s got enough left to make a move for an Isaiah Joe, or a Klay Thompson, or a Malik Monk this summer. That’s about it. Largely, the Rockets will either have to focus on upgrading their rotation through the draft, or use their premium assets to make a blockbuster deal:

Luckily, they have lots of those.

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Three different prospects hold the key to the Toronto Raptors’ future

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - MARCH 11: Jayden Quaintance #21 of the Kentucky Wildcats looks on prior to the first round of the 2026 SEC Men's Basketball Tournament against the LSU Tigers at Bridgestone Arena on March 11, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The NBA Draft has finally arrived. Here are three players that our Raptors HQ experts believe the Toronto Raptors should take at pick 19 to take the next step.

Jayden Quaintance

An awesome choice at this pick is Jayden Quaintance. Some draft projections have him going too early for Toronto to get, but other boards have him somewhere in the 20s. It would be totally possible for him to still be available to the Raptors, as some teams have concerns about an Achilles and meniscus tear he sustained last year. Of course, the Raptors have proven they’re patient and able to help rehab a player back into peak playing form.

His biggest asset is his defence (where have we heard that before). He’s big: six-foot-nine barefoot and 253 pounds with a standing reach of just over nine feet. With explosive strength and athleticism, he’s already a great rebounder, something that Toronto desperately needs. I’m imagining him and Collin Murray-Boyles sharing the court and collecting almost everything that comes off the boards. He also seems to have a motor, something that would fit well with what Toronto is building alongside guys like Jamal Shead and Murray-Boyles.

His offensive game is still a question mark (again, where have we heard that before), as he even struggles from the free-throw line. He shot 6-32 from long range during his college career, but did manage a 53 per cent field-goal percentage largely as a lob threat, operating in the paint, and rim running.

This could be a bit of a gamble, but Toronto got Ja’Kobe Walter at 19 two years ago, so perhaps this will be a lucky pick for the Raps. – Rebecca Schapelhouman

Chris Cenac Jr.

Chris Cenac would be my pick at number 19. Recently mocked as going 20th overall, the big man from Houston stands at 6’11, and has the potential to be the missing piece in Toronto’s offence. Not only is he a capable interior threat, but he has a great looking outside shot, adding some flexibility that the Raptors currently lack.
Cenac’s length exceeds that of other big men projected to be taken towards the middle of the draft, and while the Cougar is not known for his rim protection, extra height is never a bad thing when contending in the modern NBA. Having another centre could only help Toronto better navigate its murky situation at the 5, and with this draft relatively light on big men, grabbing him at pick 19 looks like the right way to go. A stretch big who is also capable on the boards does not come around often, so the front office should attempt to snap him up if he remains available.

Cenac’s ability to contribute offensively without being in the paint could open up offensive opportunities for RJ Barrett drives and Scottie Barnes post moves, allowing the stars to shine even more. Chris and Murray-Boyles could form an undersized “twin towers” duo, pairing the rookie’s lob threat with the sophomore’s interior presence. And considering the whispers about the Raptors trying to pick up Myles Turner, adding a true rebounding centre to balance out that deficiency could mean the difference as Toronto continues to shake up its roster. – Julian Apolinario

Christian Anderson

While I appreciate the idea of selecting a big man, I think the 2026 NBA Draft should be used to add someone who can contribute right away, especially if that prospect has an elite transferable skill. Texas Tech’s Christian Anderson is viewed by many analysts as the best shooter in this year’s draft. The Raptors were one of the worst three-point shooting teams in the league last season. It’s a perfect fit.

Anderson shot a blistering 41.5 per cent on 7.9 three-point attempts. While the Raptors selected Gradey Dick out of Kansas for his shooting prowess (40.3 per cent on 5.7 attempts), Anderson has something different. The film shows the six-foot-one guard harnessing a shooting-aura that blankets perimeter defenders with dread. Anderson has unwavering confidence and legitimate game-breaking range that fits on any contending NBA bench. The next time defences load up on Scottie Barnes or Brandon Ingram in the playoffs, Raptors fans will want Anderson to get 3-4 attempts at a clean look from three.

While it’s true that Anderson will be hunted on the other side of the court, Toronto has enough weapons to absorb any potential problems. What’s the point of having elite defensive geniuses like Barnes and Murray-Boyles or pesky on-ball defenders like Shead and Walter if they can’t hide an offensive explosion waiting to happen like Anderson? – Kristian Cuaresma

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Detroit Pistons, other NBA Draft rumors and open thread

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - MARCH 19: Giannis Antetokounmpo #29 of the Milwaukee Bucks walks on the court during warmups before their game against the Utah Jazz at the Delta Center on March 19, 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah.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 Chris Gardner/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Giannis Antetokounmpo trade has finally happened … and the Detroit Pistons were not involved. Yet. Despite weeks of speculation, when the Milwaukee Bucks superstar’s trade was broken by Shams Charania of ESPN, it involved just the two primary two teams — the Buck and Miami Heat. The Pistons were seen as a natural fit for and highly interested in Miami’s Tyler Herro, who did, indeed, get shipped in the deal. The Wisconsin native is currently slated to be a member of the Bucks, but the deal will not be made official until the new league year on July 6. That gives plenty of times for other organizations, including Detroit, to join the fray.

Elsewhere, the Chicago Bulls decided to sacrifice their cap space to take on Brooklyn Nets big man Nic Claxton in a deal that also saw the Minnesota Timberwolves jettison Julius Randle to the Nets. That opened up the flexibility for Minnesota to agree to a massive new deal for Ayo Donsunmu for north of $100 million. It also might also eat into the cap space for Brookyln, but I have heard there are structures that would allow them to do the deal without using cap space that I don’t quite understand.

If the Nets and Bulls are mostly out on major free agent acquisitions, that leaves the Lakers as the only potential threat, however minor, to lure Jalen Duren with a big offer sheet. I anticipate a multi-year deal for Duren to return to Detroit any day.

Donsunmu getting such a huge contract hints at the going rate for ball-handlers and scorers, which is precisely what Detroit is on the market for. In other words, it expensive.

That is why the Pistons are one of the “many” reported suitors for new Buck Tyler Herro, and why the cost for Detroit might have been as much as Isaiah Stewart, plus Ron Holland, plus stuff.

One other free agent target has also fallen off the board for Detroit with CJ McCollum agreeing on a deal to return to the Atlanta Hawks for another go-round. Oh yeah, and Aaron Wiggins was shipped off the OKC to save a boatload of cap space and put less pressure on them to deal Isaiah Joe, another Detroit target, though a trade might still be needed for financial reasons.

The Pistons currently have the No. 21 pick in the draft, and that feels like the range to be able to grab a skilled guard or wing. It also could present opportunities to draft another defensive-minded big if you really want to take all these Isaiah Stewart trade rumors to heart.

Langdon has said he’s more likely to trade up to get a targeted player than he is to trade down in the draft. We will see what happens.

If any other juicy rumors pop up, add them in the comments. If anything really interesting comes along that involves Detroit, expect that to get its own post.