TSG Hoffenheim:

As the Bundesliga season turns the bend into the home straight, Matchday 30 serves up yet another enticing fixture as TSG Hoffenheim face off against Borussia Dortmund. The action from the PreZero Arena gets underway at 15:30 CET on Saturday. 

While being well positioned in the Champions League places for much of the campaign, those dreams have been dented in recent weeks. Last Saturday was no different, as the Sinsheim club were forced to settle for a 2-2 stalemate with FC Augsburg.

Goals from Robin Hranáč and Bazoumana Touré managed to salvage a draw which still could have been a defeat if not for Alexis Claude-Maurice's late penalty miss. Results elsewhere ultimate saw Leverkusen leapfrog them into fifth place. 

Things only get trickier for Christian Ilzer's men too, with Dortmund rolling into town. A win here seems vital to keep Champions League hopes alive, but that's easier said than done considering Hoffenheim have lost 7 of their last 10 games with BVB. 

Team news: 

Hoffenheim have a largely clean bill of health aside from Koki Machida (ACL tear), Adam Hlozek (calf) and Valentin Gendrey (ankle) who have been absent for large chunks of the season for the Sinsheimers.

Baumann will tend to goals behind Coufal, Kabak, Hranáč and Hajdari. The middle third should see Prömel, Avdullahu and Burger slot in behind veteran Kramarić. In attack, Asllani and Touré ought to pose ample threat.

Predicted lineups: Baumann – Coufal, Kabak, Hranáč, Hajdari – Prömel, Avdullahu, Burger – Kramarić – Asllani, Touré

Borussia Dortmund:

Moving over to Borussia Dortmund, they still hold a healthy eight-point lead in second place over VfB Stuttgart and RB Leipzig. Although their chances of competing for the Meisterschale have, in all likelihood, faded for another campaign. 

Last weekend's rather tame 1-0 defeat to Bayer Leverkusen enabled leaders Bayern to stretch the difference out to 13 points. Robin Andrich's first-half strike proved to be the difference, consigning BVB to only their third loss of the Bundesliga. 

There may be little left to play for other than league position for Niko Kovač's side, but pushing for a strong finish should be their main objective. Should they bounce back to form, they Westphalians will be on course for their second-best ever points tally. 

Having achieved a 2-0 win over Hoffenheim back in September, Dortmund will be confident they can repeat the dose in Sinsheim. Especially when the hosts have claimed just one victory in their last seven topflight outings. 

Team news:

Emre Can (ACL tear) and Felix Nmecha (torn knee ligament) will miss out on Saturday, while Yan Couto (muscular problems) and Serhou Guirassy (fitness) are also slight doubts to feature but are in a race to be fit in time.

Kobel ought to feature behind Anton, Schlotterbeck and Bensebaini. Sabitzer and Bellingham will likely play inside Ryerson and Svensson, while the attack should feature Beier and Brandt behind Silva. 

Predicted lineup: Kobel – Anton, Schlotterbeck, Bensebaini – Ryerson, Sabitzer, Bellingham, Svensson – Beier, Brandt – Silva 

The future of Robert Lewandowski is fast becoming one of the most delicate issues for Barcelona as the season enters its decisive phase.

With his contract set to expire in June, the lack of concrete progress in renewal talks has only intensified speculation. 

For a player of Lewandowski’s stature, it is no surprise that interest is building across multiple markets. 

As such, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer have already been linked, while several European sides have also been monitoring the situation closely.

Among them, AC Milan had emerged as a serious contender in recent weeks. 

The Italian giants were reportedly exploring the possibility of bringing the experienced striker to Serie A, with internal discussions taking place at the board level.

Ruling out the move

However, recent developments suggest that Milan have now taken a clear stance on the matter. 

According to reports from SPORT, the AC Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani has effectively ruled out pursuing Lewandowski. 

AC Milan are no longer interested in Lewandowski. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

The decision was reportedly communicated during a recent Lega meeting, where key figures from Italian football gathered to discuss league matters.

This revelation offers an important twist in what has been a fluid transfer story. 

Despite earlier links, Milan’s leadership appears unconvinced about the move, even though not everyone within the club shares the same view.

Interestingly, there seems to be an internal divide. While Furlani is not in favour of signing the Barcelona striker, Milan’s sporting director, Igli Tare, has shown a more open stance. 

As per the outlet, Tare recently held talks in Italy with Lewandowski’s agent Pini Zahavi, signalling that at least part of the club remains interested in exploring the opportunity.

Still, the CEO’s position carries more weight, and for now, it appears to have shut the door on a potential move to the San Siro. 

That effectively narrows Lewandowski’s immediate options in Europe, even as interest from other regions continues to grow.

Blue Jays could change American League picture by trading for elite right-hander originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

In Major League Baseball, some teams are dealing with injuries. There are teams dealing with injuries, and there are teams dealing with what the Toronto Blue Jays currently are. 

Unfortunately for the Blue Jays, this is something we typically don't see. Toronto has been completely derailed by these injuries, and it will need to make a few moves if it wants to be the team it was expected to be entering the 2026 campaign.

Searching for ways for the Blue Jays to do that, they were recently linked to a very intriguing name, and someone that most fans might not know about just yet, but will if they continue to follow the game. 

That's none other than right-hander Jose Soriano, who has been absolutely lights out with the Los Angeles Angels. Soriano has been absolutely incredible throughout the early stages of the season, posting a 0.33 ERA in 27.0 innings and striking out 31 hitters.

“Los Angeles Angels pitcher Jose Soriano is the best pitcher in baseball right now. He's allowed nine hits and one earned run over 27 innings and four starts. The Angels are 4-0 in games that Soriano starts, but 4-8 in the other 12 games. He's a true difference maker with the ability to be one of the best pitchers in the league this season. Obviously, a 0.33 ERA isn't sustainable, but he could be the ace of the Blue Jays staff if he's thrown on the trade block this season,” Zach Pressnell of SI wrote.

It's still early in the year, so it's fair to suggest that Soriano is obviously going to face some level of regression just due to how good he's been. 

However, he owns a career 3.64 ERA in 38 appearances, so it isn't like he's been bad before this. His stuff is really good, and it would play in this Blue Jays rotation.

More MLB news:

• Jed Hoyer calms Cubs fans down by suggesting he’ll make a move after another season-ending injury
• Phillies bashed for not signing Bo Bichette due to Aidan Miller reason
• Yankees’ George Lombard Jr. gets massive praise from Zack Wheeler in surprising event
• Yankees could make Gerrit Cole decision sooner than most fans realize
• Yankees’ Anthony Volpe gets timeline update after offseason surgery
• Phillies absolutely can’t even think about this Andrew Painter trade proposal

Jed Hoyer calms Cubs fans down by suggesting he’ll make a move after another season-ending injury originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It's been very unfortunate that the Chicago Cubs have dealt with the injuries they've had, including another season-ending injury to a pitcher. Right-hander Porter Hodge, who was dealing with a right elbow injury, will undergo season-ending Tommy John surgery. 

Hodge, a reliever who has a 3.79 career ERA in Major League Baseball, would have been someone who could get outs at a very high level for this Cubs squad.

Looking at the future and what it means for the Cubs, while injuries are never ideal, it was actually good to hear what Jed Hoyer had to say. 

Instead of making fans worry about not going out and making the right decisions after this, he said that while the focus is on Hodge and making sure that he's okay, the process has to be on what this team can do next.

“You just immediately feel sorry for the player, but then you just process like, ‘Who’s up next?’ ” Hoyer said, per the Sun-Times. “You have to move on quick mentally. It sounds cold-hearted, but that’s the nature of the job. The games go on, you have to find replacements.

“You have to take a look because you wouldn’t be doing your job if you didn’t,” Hoyer said. “A lot of guys go down these days. Guys throw so unbelievably hard, but we’ll do a deep dive and see if there’s a commonality to the injuries.”

The Cubs have had a rather average start to the year at 9-9. They're in fifth place in the National League Central, but I'm not exactly worried about being in last place in the Central right now. Ultimately, the standings are only decided by two games all around, so there isn't much to worry about yet.

However, if he doesn't go out and add the necessary arms, that could be a problem in the short and long term.

More MLB news:

• Phillies bashed for not signing Bo Bichette due to Aidan Miller reason
• Yankees’ George Lombard Jr. gets massive praise from Zack Wheeler in surprising event
• Yankees could make Gerrit Cole decision sooner than most fans realize
• Yankees’ Anthony Volpe gets timeline update after offseason surgery
• Phillies absolutely can’t even think about this Andrew Painter trade proposal
• Dodgers trade idea would only add to fans frustrations over how good Los Angeles is

Chelsea are looking to sign a versatile attacker this summer rather than an out and out centre forward according to David Ornstein.

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The Blues had a very quiet January, but things are expected to be different in the summer, with a number of positions in the squad needing to be addressed.

Chelsea are said to be in the market for a centre back, whilst they are also thought to want to add another midfielder and attacker.

David Ornstein speaks on Chelsea transfer plans

It’s been reported Chelsea are open to signing players with proven Premier League experience this summer, but until that happens fans have the right to remain sceptical.

Chelsea already have both Geovany Quenda and Emmanuel Emegha arriving from Sporting Lisbon and Strasbourg respectively at the end of the season.

The Blues have also been linked with Morgan Rogers, and with Liam Delap’s struggles this season fans wouldn’t mind seeing another striker.

However, how likely a new number nine is remains to be seen, and Ornstein has provided an update on Chelsea’s summer business.

“Definitely expecting an attacker and a centre-back, the attacker perhaps being versatile as opposed to an out-and-out striker,” he told The Athletic. 

If you enjoy Chelsea News coverage and want to see more of it, add us as a preferred source on Google to make us a favourite and see more of our content.

In other news…

Chelsea face a huge game against Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday evening, with the Blues in desperate need of three points.

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Liam Rosenior has overseen three consecutive league defeats, with Chelsea sat four points outside the Champions League places.

The Blues are just two points clear of tenth placed Sunderland, and defeat on Saturday could see them tumble down the table.

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

David Ornstein has confirmed that Nottingham Forest will demand a record transfer fee for a midfielder when Elliot Anderson leaves the club this summer.

While it’s not set in stone that he will be on the move, given he is tied down to a contract until 2029, it is highly anticipated that the sought-after star will call time on his City Ground tenure after two years.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE& GOOGLE PLAY

Anderson has a career-defining decision to make this summer

Then, when the time comes for his suitors to start making their proposals, Manchester United will be at the front of the queue alongside arch-rivals Manchester City.

Both sides have seemingly made Anderson their first-choice midfield target heading into the summer window, and it goes without saying that the Blues will be willing to shell out any fee, as well as grant him his desired wages.

On the other hand, a salary cap introduced by INEOS upon their arrival at Old Trafford in February 2024 means no new signings will be put on exorbitant wages from the get-go.

They did so in hopes of preventing situations where the likes of Jadon Sancho, who hasn’t played a competitive game for United since August 2024, is pocketing a ludicrous £250,000-a-week for the duration of his five-year contract.

What’s the latest on United and Anderson?

Last week, it was claimed the Reds would be holding ‘fresh talks’ with Anderson’s camp in order to gauge the feasibility of a transfer coming to fruition.

Yet, from now until the end of the season, the 23-year-old, whom compatriot Reece James hailed as a ‘phenomenal’ talent, will have his sights set on keeping Forest in the top flight before he’s expected to play an integral role with England at what will be his first World Cup.

More Stories / Latest News

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Apr 17 2026, 6:20

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Apr 16 2026, 13:13

Celtic icon Shunsuke Nakamura has taken up a new role with Japan’s national side, joining the coaching staff as an assistant ahead of this summer’s World Cup…

Shunsuke Nakamura of Celtic during the Scottish Premier League match between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox on May 9, 2009. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

The 46-year-old recently departed Yokohama FC, where he held his first managerial position, and has now linked up with head coach Hajime Moriyasu as the national team continues its preparations for the tournament.

Japan – heading to their eighth consecutive World Cup – will look to benefit from Nakamura’s experience under Moriyasu’s management. Naka will now be coaching current Celtic winger Daizen Maeda.

Speaking via the Samurai Blue’s official website, Nakamura said: “I am delighted to announce that I have been appointed as a member of the coaching staff for the Japan national team.”

“I gave careful consideration to the impact my involvement might have at this crucial stage, with the World Cup finals just around the corner; however, after receiving a passionate and encouraging message from manager Moriyasu, I decided to accept the role.”

Shunsuke Nakamura, Celtic. Photo: imago/AFLOSPORT

“I am committed to sharing the same vision as the Japan national team players as they compete on the world stage, and I will do my utmost to help the team achieve its goals.”

Nakamura was in attendance at Hampden Park last month as Japan edged out Scotland 1-0 in a friendly, with both nations fine-tuning their squads ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

The visit generated widespread attention among Celtic supporters, with the former midfielder sharing a reunion with ex-teammate Neil Lennon at Celtic Park.

He also crossed paths with current Hoops defender Kieran Tierney, more than two decades after first meeting him when Tierney was a young fan.

Photo:imago AFLOSPORT Shunsuke Nakamura, Glasgow Celtic

During his stint at Celtic, he collected six major trophies before moving on to Espanyol in 2009, bringing an end to a highly influential chapter in his career.

Conor Spence

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More Stories / Latest News

Celtic icon Shunsuke Nakamura takes up World Cup role

Apr 17 2026, 7:12

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Apr 17 2026, 6:55

Not counting FA Cup matches against lower-league opposition, Chelsea are currently on a run of one win in nine, including five straight defeats, four of them by three-goal margins. The last three of those were all matching 3-0 defeats, extending our goalless streak to over 300 minutes against teams not named Port Vale. In short, it’s been horrendous.

And it’s not really getting any easier, though Manchester United are far from unbeatable. In fact, they only have one win in their last four, and managed to lose to Leeds United at home, 2-1 last time out. They are still well on track for a Champions League spot next season though, which is certainly not something we can say with any confidence.

But a strong finish to the season could still get us there.

Our injury situation hasn’t improved, but we do get Enzo Fernández back from his club-imposed exile. He’s said to be raring to go.

Choose wisely.

(Live results)

Phillies bashed for not signing Bo Bichette due to Aidan Miller reason originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It's been an unfortunate past few months for Philadelphia Phillies top prospect Aidan Miller. Miller, who is expected to be a major part of the Phillies' future, is dealing with a back problem.

Miller has yet to play in the minor leagues and missed all game action of spring training. He also missed the Arizona Fall League this past fall.

And according to some, this is something the Phillies could have avoided if they had signed Bo Bichette. There were rumors that the Phillies were going to sign him, but it ended up never happened.

“Signing Bichette would've meant free-agent-to-be Alec Bohm getting shipped out of town. When that fell through, the plan shifted to Miller making a push for the third base job in 2027. Philadelphia's No. 1 prospect hoped to be on track to get his feet wet later on this year to set up that vision for the future. 

However, the soon-to-be 22-year-old's balky back has put all of that in jeopardy. The soreness cropped up last year. Then it caused him to miss the Arizona Fall League action that was scheduled for him. And then it cost him spring training. And now, it's casting more doubt despite some cautiously optimistic updates,” Stephen Parello of FanSided wrote.

Had Bichette signed with the Phillies, it probably would’ve given Miller an outside chance of making the team in 2026 or 2027, before factoring in this back injury. 

Now, the back injury only further complicates what could’ve been.

Frankly, the Phillies should have done whatever they could to add Bichette and still hoped that one day Miller would be what he's expected to be. The back injury seems to be a problem, but the kid is young, and that doesn't mean things can't be improved health-wise.

More MLB news:

• Yankees’ George Lombard Jr. gets massive praise from Zack Wheeler in surprising event
• Yankees could make Gerrit Cole decision sooner than most fans realize
• Yankees’ Anthony Volpe gets timeline update after offseason surgery
• Phillies absolutely can’t even think about this Andrew Painter trade proposal
• Dodgers trade idea would only add to fans frustrations over how good Los Angeles is
• Trey Yesavage update sounds ideal for Blue Jays amid injuries that could determine whether they make postseason

Before our focus is fully on Villa Park ahead of Sunday’s game, we thought we’d gather as Bomber, Andrew & Ant join Chris to get up to speed with all the latest news! On today’s show…

• What has Big Sam been saying?!
• Defoe at Woking…
• Legends Way weirdness!
• Rumours on Brobbey, Roefs & Sadiki!
• U21’s make the final!
• Made In Sunderland week is upon us!

All this and more! Get subscribed to Haway The Podcast so you never miss another episode of our free daily show.

Want to get in touch with us? You can drop us an email at HawayThePodcastSAFC@Gmail.com, or you can contact us via social media – we’re @RokerReport on almost every platform. For your daily SAFC fan-written content, head over to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RokerReport.SBNation.com⁠

James Harden reveals the value of potentially winning a championship with the Cavaliers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have a strong chance of making it far in the Eastern Conference Playoffs. They were favorites before the season, after the 2024-25 season, when they got 60+ wins. That was when they had Darius Garland, but now, they have former MVP James Harden.

While Garland is still an excellent player, going for Harden might have been the move that helped the Cavs return to fine form. He is a more experienced guard who is the better fit for the Cavs' big men.

James Harden knows a championship with the Cavs will be significant

As one of the brightest point guard talents in the game, Harden is a fantastic fit with the Cavaliers. Not only is he a fantastic scorer, but he has also become one of the league's best playmakers as he has matured.

With the Cavaliers, he has plenty of weapons to take advantage of, including Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. The pick-and-roll has been a bigger part of their offense compared to what they had with Garland.

MORE: Donovan Mitchell speaks about how James Harden maximizes the Cavs' title window

Mitchell is still the Cavaliers' go-to guy, but Harden has quickly become the engine that keeps the team going. Since he is the oldest player in the core group, everyone is looking at his competitive fire to be taken up a notch with his championship aspirations.

"That’s why I’m here. I’ve done so many things that 95% of the world couldn’t even imagine. I’ve impacted the game in a positive way. Winning a championship isn’t an easy task," Harden said about his goals of winning with Cleveland.

As Harden and the rest of the Cavaliers continue their path in the Playoffs, they will continue to be a threat. Harden is notably a player who drops off in the Playoffs, but with this Cavaliers team, he might have a good chance of succeeding.

More NBA news:

• Coco Jones' impact on Donovan Mitchell's future with the Cavaliers
• How James Harden's time with the Rockets in 2019 helps the Cavaliers
• James Harden is likely to opt out of his current deal in the 2026 offseason
• Donovan Mitchell and the Cavaliers understand the stakes of the 2026 Playoffs
• Donovan Mitchell is questionable for the start of the series against Atlanta

Yankees’ George Lombard Jr. gets massive praise from Zack Wheeler in surprising event originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

New York Yankees top prospect George Lombard Jr. has gotten a lot of love from fans, scouts, Yankees players, and even players from other organizations. 

Recently playing against the Philadelphia Phillies minor league squad and superstar ace Zack Wheeler, he had a lot of good to say about what Lombard could be in his career. While Wheeler might have been messing around a tad, as he can get anybody out at any given moment, no matter how good a hitter is, he even went as far as saying that he hopes he doesn't have to face him too much one day.

"He was taking good swings all night," Wheeler said when asked about Lombard, per SI. "You can tell he's a good, strong kid. He has a good bat path. He's gonna be a good player, so, you know, hopefully I don't have to face him too much."

It's always cool to see proven big league talents pave the way for young guys around the league. Doing so for a guy that isn't even in his organization just shows the type of guy Wheeler ultimately is.

Unfortunately for the Yankees, and perhaps fortunately for Wheeler if his comments are genuine, we likely won't see him for another year or so. The Yankees want to be smart with him, and as they've shown over the past few years, they're going to be safe and not call up prospects too early.

More MLB news:

• Yankees could make Gerrit Cole decision sooner than most fans realize
• Yankees’ Anthony Volpe gets timeline update after offseason surgery
• Phillies absolutely can’t even think about this Andrew Painter trade proposal
• Dodgers trade idea would only add to fans frustrations over how good Los Angeles is
• Trey Yesavage update sounds ideal for Blue Jays amid injuries that could determine whether they make postseason
• Blue Jays get promising update on Addison Barger ahead of Diamondbacks series

It has been over three months since Manchester United and Ruben Amorim parted ways.

Amorim departs

The Portuguese coach took charge of his final match for Manchester United in a 1-1 draw at Elland Road against Leeds United at the very start of January.

After the match, he held a fiery post-match press conference in which he implied there had been problems behind the scenes between himself and sporting director Jason Wilcox.

It has also been revealed since then that the two disagreed on United’s use of the 3-5-2 formation under Amorim, as well as the club’s refusal to spend in the January transfer window.

Upturn in form

When Amorim left the club, the Red Devils were sixth in the league, three points behind fourth-placed Liverpool.

Fast forward a few months under Michael Carrick and they now find themselves in third, with a seven-point cushion ahead of Chelsea in the fight for Champions League places.

Carrick has won seven matches out of 11, drawing two and losing two more, in a successful interim spell.

No comment

Since departing his position, Amorim has remained quiet and has not made any public comment on his sacking from the club.

The BBC reports that, “it has been notable how Ruben Amorim has virtually disappeared off the radar since his dismissal by Manchester United in January.”

In fact, his only public appearances have been watching tennis player Carlos Alcaraz at the Qatar Open in February and being pictured at a Padel Expo in Lisbon last month with Manchester City sporting director Hugo Viana.

They add that, “the former Sporting boss did not post a message on social media following his dismissal, and sources close to the 41-year-old say he has no plans to speak to the media any time soon.”

Amorim has been linked with a return to Portuguese football, with some reports suggesting he might replace Jose Mourinho at his former club, SL Benfica.

Ruben Amorim Man United managerial stats

Source: WikipediaFeatured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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Callum McGregor has delivered a warning ahead of Celtic’s Scottish Cup semi-final with St Mirren, insisting the Hoops will produce a far better performance than in their previous meeting at Hampden in December…

The Buddies claimed the first silverware of the season with an emphatic 3-1 win at the National Stadium, 11 days after Wilfried Nancy’s appointment.

Results got worse under the Frenchman, but fortunes have since turned, with Martin O’Neill overseeing a more consistent run of victories.

McGregor admitted the team fell well below expectations in the Premier Sports League Cup final and emphasised that a significant improvement will be required when they return to Hampden on Sunday.

Speaking via Celtic TV, CalMac said: “When you arrive on these big days it’s trying to come off the pitch with no regret and knowing that you gave everything to get a result. So we for sure have to give a better account of ourselves compared to what we did that day. But we arrive into these semi-finals with big experience and good experiences behind us.”

“Hopefully we can draw on that and then ultimately you have to perform, you have to match everything that’s in there and we have to give more if we want to be the team that are in the final.”

“We are where we are, and everyone’s supercharged, super emotional, and everybody wants the perfect performance all the time. Obviously that’s what we strive to do Monday to Friday and then obviously the game on the Saturday, you try and do everything that you’ve been asked to do.”

Callum McGregor ahead of the match. Scottish Cup quarter final on Sunday 8 March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou

The Hoops skipper added: “But credit to St Mirren, they’ve obviously changed the manager, slightly different identity in the way that they want to play and the way that they get numbers round the ball, it was difficult at times.”

“But something that we obviously very quickly have to get to grips with for the weekend’s game. It’s always good to see different challenges in the game and different teams posing you different threats.”

“When the game changes like that sometimes it’s hard to then re-grip control in the game but the positive is a lot of big points this season where the team have been resilient and managed to dig out results.”

“It was another one at the weekend and it’s about getting results. While we want performances to always improve and we will improve, then the main thing is to win the games.”

Conor Spence

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More Stories / Latest News

Celtic v St Mirren – Callum McGregor warns teammates ahead Hampden return

Apr 17 2026, 7:06

Johnny Kenny doing himself no favours disrespecting Scottish game

Apr 17 2026, 6:55

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Liverpool are exploring a move to sign their next Andy Robertson.

Who was the single greatest signing of the Michael Edwards era?

It wasn't Mohamed Salah. It wasn't Virgil van Dijk. Nor was it, Sadio Mane or Roberto Firmino.

It was Andy Robertson.

£8m. What can that get you now? It can't even get you a Fabio Carvalho. But almost a decade ago, it was enough to sign one of the best left-backs to ever play in the Premier League.

Even at the time, the signing of Robertson was a bargain. That same summer, Liverpool sold Kevin Stewart to Hull City for £8m, which meant the Scotsman basically cost nothing for the Reds.

Robertson has since gone onto become a phenomenal player and he's defined a successful era for Liverpool.

This summer marks the end of his time at the club and it's a new beginning for Liverpool. In this summer, they could also sign their next Robertson.

But it won't be at left-back.

As this season has unfolded, the void left by Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back has become more and more apparent.

Although Conor Bradley was proclaimed as a natural heir to his throne, the ongoing injury issues he has faced this season and all three of his seasons at Anfield have raised concerns about his reliability as a long-term first-choice option.

There’s no doubt he still has a role to play within the squad, especially because he is homegrown, but Liverpool need more certainty in such a vital position.

Jeremie Frimpong was also touted as an Alexander-Arnold replacement but he is yet to prove himself as a dependable defensive presence, with his strengths clearly better suited to more advanced, attacking roles.

That lack of confidence in Frimpong and the doubts over Bradley's fitness has forced Liverpool into action and they will be attempting to reinforce the right-back position this summer.

Yankees could make Gerrit Cole decision sooner than most fans realize originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Yankees could use Gerrit Cole back in the near future, as the right-hander hasn't thrown in a game in a very long time now. Cole missed the entire 2025 campaign and has obviously yet to pitch during 2026.

It's a tough situation for the Yankees to be in, but considering how long Cole has already been out, there's absolutely no reason to rush any of this. The last thing the Yankees can do is rush him back and end up losing him again.

Technically, Cole can return at any moment right now, but the expectation is for the Yankees to build him up and give him all the time he needs.

“Cole has built up to three innings (42 pitches) while pitching in sim games, and he's now been given the green light to begin playing in minor-league games. Because he's on the 15-day IL, the 35-year-old righty will be eligible to return at any moment, but the Yankees will presumably look to slowly build him up over the course of several rehab outings while he finishes up his recovery from Tommy John surgery,” Roto Wire wrote.

It's tough to get a feel for how many rehab outings we will see from Cole, but I expect we'll see at least two or three. Even if he comes out and throws the baseball at a very high level, the Yankees will want to raise his pitch count and whatnot before putting him back on a Major League mound.

More MLB news:

• Yankees’ Anthony Volpe gets timeline update after offseason surgery
• Phillies absolutely can’t even think about this Andrew Painter trade proposal
• Dodgers trade idea would only add to fans frustrations over how good Los Angeles is
• Trey Yesavage update sounds ideal for Blue Jays amid injuries that could determine whether they make postseason
• Blue Jays get promising update on Addison Barger ahead of Diamondbacks series
• Blue Jays again criticized for factor they can’t control, but is a harsh one to deal with in Toronto

AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

3:00 PM - Machida Zelvia vs. Al-Ittihad - ESPN 4 and Disney+

ITALIAN CHAMPIONSHIP

1:30 PM - Sassuolo vs. Como - XSports and Disney+

3:45 PM - Inter Milan vs. Cagliari - Disney+

GERMAN CHAMPIONSHIP (2ND DIVISION)

1:30 PM - Holstein Kiel vs. Kaiserslautern - DFL via OneFootball, YouTube (RC Sport)

1:30 PM - Elversberg vs. Karlsruher - DFL via OneFootball

FRENCH CHAMPIONSHIP (2ND DIVISION)

3:00 PM - Le Mans vs. Clermont - SportyNet and YT (SportyNet)

GERMAN CHAMPIONSHIP

3:30 PM - St. Pauli vs. Köln - DFL via OneFootball, YouTube (GOAT)

ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP (2ND DIVISION)

4:00 PM - Blackburn Rovers vs. Coventry City - ESPN and Disney+

SPANISH CHAMPIONSHIP (2ND DIVISION)

4:00 PM - Las Palmas vs. Leganés - Disney+

PORTUGUESE CHAMPIONSHIP

4:45 PM - Rio Ave vs. AVS - XSports and Disney+

PARANÁ STATE CHAMPIONSHIP (2ND DIVISION)

8:00 PM - Araucária vs. Paraná - YouTube (FPF TV)

URUGUAYAN CHAMPIONSHIP

8:00 PM - Albion vs. Central Español - Disney+

ARGENTINE CHAMPIONSHIP

8:30 PM - Union Santa Fe vs. Newell's Old Boys - Disney+

MEXICAN CHAMPIONSHIP

10:00 PM - Atlético San Luis vs. Pumas - Disney+

MLS

11:30 PM - V. Whitecaps vs. Sporting KC - Apple TV

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Yankees’ Anthony Volpe gets timeline update after offseason surgery originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Yankees have been banged up with injuries to start the 2026 campaign, though they can't make any excuses for what they've done on both sides of the baseball. The Yankees are still a good enough team to win games at a high level and haven't been that bad at the end of the day. 

New York is currently 10-9 and only 1.5 games behind the first-place Tampa Bay Rays in the American League East.

Young shortstop Anthony Volpe is one of the injuries the Yankees have been dealing with. Some fans might not want Volpe on the roster or starting at shortstop, but the reality is that the young man is the starting shortstop for the Yankees, and fans need to get used to that right now. 

In Volpe's defense, it isn't exactly like the guys behind him, who had a chance to show a lot, did a bunch. Volpe deserves to be the shortstop right now and will be. The only question remaining is when he will return, and the latest report suggests that it could be at the end of the month.

“Based on that schedule, Volpe could return to the Yanks’ lineup by the last week of April, or the first week of May, but he’s not focused on a particular date,” Pete Caldera of NJ.com wrote.

The important part here is that Volpe seems to be doing well in his recovery. Prior to his shoulder injury last season, he was actually having a decent year. I think that if everything goes well, we could see a nice bounce back from the former New Jersey high school star.

More MLB news:

• Phillies absolutely can’t even think about this Andrew Painter trade proposal
• Dodgers trade idea would only add to fans frustrations over how good Los Angeles is
• Trey Yesavage update sounds ideal for Blue Jays amid injuries that could determine whether they make postseason
• Blue Jays get promising update on Addison Barger ahead of Diamondbacks series
• Blue Jays again criticized for factor they can’t control, but is a harsh one to deal with in Toronto
• Yankees bashed for not fixing issue after losing two elite players to Mets during offseason

Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali has snapped back a bit at Chelsea fans by declaring, ‘six months ago everyone was super-happy.’

I mean, some fans might have been. But for the majority, I think they have never truly been happy under this ownership and truly backing this model.

EXCLUSIVE! Chelsea set for midfield rebuild! 3 in, 3 out? New names targeted here!!

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For sure, there has been some flip-flopping amongst some of the fan base. They were certainly pretty positive in general when we won the Club World Cup. But for many, they just saw that as papering over the cracks.

Even still, these words from Eghbali will not go down too well with the fan base, a fan base that is planning to protest against the ownership in numbers this coming Saturday ahead of the Manchester United game.

Eghbali speaks out!

Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali have an awkward hello.

In words quoted by The Athletic this week, Eghbali said:

“For the fans, we care. We want the club to be successful. We’re focused on delivering that on-pitch performance. I think six months ago everyone was super-happy. Results have been mixed, disappointing more recently. There’s a full reflection on what we can do better, what we can improve on.”

In other news today

Liam Rosenior has been asked about Enzo Fernandez’s return to Chelsea’s squad and whether it had caused any problems with the group. The Blues boss has given a half-hearted reply…

There is a sense that everything at Chelsea is broken from top to bottom, and when you see it listed it’s pretty stark. Henry Winter lists it all here.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CHELSEA NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON THE APP STORE

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali has admitted the club didn’t want to sack Enzo Maresca mid-season and that the decision had a negative impact.

The Blues dismissed the Italian tactician at the turn of the year, but the fallout from that decision continues to define a campaign that is rapidly unravelling.

Speaking at a sports business conference in Los Angeles, Eghbali said (via The Athletic): “Our policy has been no in-season changes.

“It’s not a change we wanted to make,” he continued.

“It’s a change that had a bit of a negative impact in the season, when you’re changing systems and personnel, and it’s one we’ve got to fight our way out of.”

Eghbali insisted BlueCo is learning from its mistakes and remains committed to restoring Chelsea’s winning identity.

That will take some doing, considering Liam Rosenior’s disastrous start to life in the Chelsea dugout.

Chelsea have crashed out of the Champions League, FA Cup and EFL Cup, while their Premier League form has nosedived at the worst possible moment.

What was once a promising campaign has spiralled into a fight to remain relevant in the top-five race.

One win in six games across all competitions has exposed a side lacking identity, cohesion and, crucially, the cutting edge required to compete at the elite level Chelsea demand.

There is an uncomfortable contradiction at the heart of the club’s messaging.

On one hand, Eghbali speaks of the need to win consistently and hints at a shift towards recruiting proven, ready-made players.

But Chelsea are being led by sporting directors who have never built an elite squad, and by a manager who is still learning on the job at the highest level under immense pressure.

You cannot build an elite squad of winners while entrusting the project to a manager who has yet to prove he can deliver at that level.

Eghbali may insist the plan is evolving, but with Rosenior at the helm, it risks going nowhere fast.

Chelsea fans plan to stage protests against the club’s leadership, decrying how the West London outfit is being run. Something has to give soon.

Bears’ Maxx Crosby trade rumors absolutely shut down by Chicago insider originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

A lot of rumors suggested that the Chicago Bears have had interest in star edge rusher Maxx Crosby. Crosby was traded to the Baltimore Ravens in what would have been one of the biggest deals of the offseason, but the Ravens backed out of the trade, sending him back to the Las Vegas Raiders.

After that failed trade, some believed that the Bears were willing to send the Raiders two first-round picks as well. However, according to the latest report, that was never the case. While that doesn't mean there wasn't interest in trading for Crosby, there were no two first-round picks on the table for the Raiders to take.

“While the Bears were linked to that Crosby storyline for weeks, with speculation swirling that they, too, had offered Las Vegas a pair of first-round picks, that wasn’t the case, a league source told The Athletic,” Dan Wiederer wrote.

If the Raiders were offered two first-round picks again for Crosby right now, it seems fair to suggest that they would take the deal. Las Vegas made a lot of interesting moves in the early stages of free agency, with many thinking it did so because it expected Crosby not to be on the books. 

While the situation seems somewhat settled out in Las Vegas, it’s certainly possible that the Bears could get in the mix once again if they believe they need a player of his caliber.

More NFL news:

• New Patriots star has bold claim about Bears’ Caleb Williams, despite playing with Drake Maye
• Browns’ Todd Monken believes former 1,000-yard star WR will turn things around after horrid year
• Seahawks ex-star DK Metcalf in danger of being cut due to contract situation
• Dolphins trade idea finally brings a wide receiver in for new quarterback Malik Willis
• Browns trade proposal ends Dillon Gabriel experiment in deal to team that will have too many quarterbacks
• Bengals’ Cole Kmet trade proposal would give Joe Burrow another great target

Atlanta Hawks (46-36, sixth in the Eastern Conference) vs. New York Knicks (53-29, third in the Eastern Conference)

New York; Saturday, 6 p.m. EDT

LINE: Knicks -5.5; over/under is 216.5

EASTERN CONFERENCE FIRST ROUND: Knicks host first series matchup

BOTTOM LINE: The New York Knicks host the Atlanta Hawks to open the Eastern Conference first round. New York went 2-1 against Atlanta during the regular season. The Knicks won the last regular season meeting 108-105 on Monday, April 6 led by 30 points from Jalen Brunson, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker scored 36 points for the Hawks.

The Knicks are 35-17 against conference opponents. New York averages 116.5 points while outscoring opponents by 6.4 points per game.

The Hawks are 27-25 in conference play. Atlanta is 7-8 in one-possession games.

The Knicks average 116.5 points per game, 0.5 more points than the 116.0 the Hawks give up. The Hawks are shooting 47.4% from the field, 1.4% higher than the 46.0% the Knicks' opponents have shot this season.

TOP PERFORMERS: Mikal Bridges is scoring 14.4 points per game and averaging 3.8 rebounds for the Knicks. Brunson is averaging 20.3 points and 2.2 rebounds over the last 10 games.

Jalen Johnson is scoring 22.5 points per game and averaging 10.3 rebounds for the Hawks. Alexander-Walker is averaging 3.5 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Knicks: 6-4, averaging 111.2 points, 40.3 rebounds, 26.9 assists, 8.2 steals and 3.2 blocks per game while shooting 49.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 108.3 points per game.

Hawks: 6-4, averaging 120.0 points, 44.5 rebounds, 28.3 assists, 8.7 steals and 4.5 blocks per game while shooting 47.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 113.6 points.

INJURIES: Knicks: Tyler Kolek: day to day (oblique), OG Anunoby: day to day (ankle), Josh Hart: day to day (ankle), Mitchell Robinson: day to day (ankle), Karl-Anthony Towns: day to day (elbow), Jalen Brunson: day to day (ankle).

Hawks: Onyeka Okongwu: day to day (finger), Nickeil Alexander-Walker: day to day (toe), Jalen Johnson: day to day (rest), CJ McCollum: day to day (rest), Jonathan Kuminga: day to day (knee), Dyson Daniels: day to day (toe), Jock Landale: out (ankle).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Charlotte Hornets (44-38, ninth in the Eastern Conference) vs. Orlando Magic (45-37, eighth in the Eastern Conference)

Orlando, Florida; Friday, 7:30 p.m. EDT

LINE: Hornets -3.5; over/under is 218

PLAY-IN GAME: The Magic and Hornets square off to decide the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference.

BOTTOM LINE: The Orlando Magic and the Charlotte Hornets take the court for the NBA Playoffs Play-In Tournament. The winner claims the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference Playoffs.

The Magic are 26-26 against Eastern Conference opponents. Orlando is 20-26 against opponents with a winning record.

The Hornets are 11-5 against the rest of their division. Charlotte is seventh in the Eastern Conference scoring 116.0 points per game and is shooting 46.0%.

The Magic are shooting 46.4% from the field this season, 0.3 percentage points lower than the 46.7% the Hornets allow to opponents. The Hornets are shooting 46.0% from the field, 1.6% lower than the 47.6% the Magic's opponents have shot this season.

TOP PERFORMERS: Paolo Banchero is averaging 22.2 points, 8.4 rebounds and 5.2 assists for the Magic. Jalen Suggs is averaging 2.8 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LaMelo Ball is averaging 20.1 points and 7.1 assists for the Hornets. Brandon Miller is averaging 19.5 points over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Magic: 7-3, averaging 116.4 points, 43.5 rebounds, 27.3 assists, 8.1 steals and 4.0 blocks per game while shooting 47.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 117.5 points per game.

Hornets: 6-4, averaging 113.4 points, 44.8 rebounds, 24.9 assists, 6.3 steals and 4.1 blocks per game while shooting 45.6% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 107.1 points.

INJURIES: Magic: Jonathan Isaac: day to day (knee).

Hornets: Moussa Diabate: day to day (hip), PJ Hall: out for season (ankle).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Golden State Warriors (37-45, 10th in the Western Conference) vs. Phoenix Suns (45-37, seventh in the Western Conference)

Phoenix; Friday, 10 p.m. EDT

LINE: Suns -3.5; over/under is 219.5

PLAY-IN GAME: The Suns and Warriors square off to decide the eighth seed in the Western Conference.

BOTTOM LINE: The Phoenix Suns host the Golden State Warriors for the NBA Playoffs Play-In Tournament. The winner earns the eighth seed in the Western Conference Playoffs.

The Suns are 10-7 against division opponents. Phoenix averages 112.6 points while outscoring opponents by 1.5 points per game.

The Warriors are 7-9 against Pacific Division teams. Golden State is eighth in the Western Conference giving up only 115.2 points while holding opponents to 48.0% shooting.

The Suns score 112.6 points per game, 2.6 fewer points than the 115.2 the Warriors give up. The Warriors average 15.7 made 3-pointers per game this season, 3.5 more made shots on average than the 12.2 per game the Suns give up.

TOP PERFORMERS: Devin Booker is shooting 45.6% and averaging 26.1 points for the Suns. Royce O'Neale is averaging 2.2 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Brandin Podziemski is scoring 13.8 points per game with 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists for the Warriors. Gui Santos is averaging 12.1 points and 3.5 rebounds while shooting 51.2% over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Suns: 5-5, averaging 115.1 points, 44.2 rebounds, 24.0 assists, 7.8 steals and 5.5 blocks per game while shooting 46.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 112.1 points per game.

Warriors: 3-7, averaging 111.4 points, 40.3 rebounds, 27.5 assists, 8.2 steals and 3.3 blocks per game while shooting 47.3% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 117.3 points.

INJURIES: Suns: Mark Williams: day to day (foot), Grayson Allen: day to day (hamstring).

Warriors: Quinten Post: out (foot), Jimmy Butler III: out for season (knee), Moses Moody: out for season (knee), Kristaps Porzingis: unknown (ankle).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Toronto Raptors (46-36, fifth in the Eastern Conference) vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (52-30, fourth in the Eastern Conference)

Cleveland; Saturday, 1 p.m. EDT

LINE: Cavaliers -8.5; over/under is 219.5

EASTERN CONFERENCE FIRST ROUND: Cavaliers host first series matchup

BOTTOM LINE: The Cleveland Cavaliers host the Toronto Raptors to open the Eastern Conference first round. Toronto went 3-0 against Cleveland during the regular season. The Raptors won the last regular season matchup 110-99 on Tuesday, Nov. 25 led by 37 points from Brandon Ingram, while Donovan Mitchell scored 17 points for the Cavaliers.

The Cavaliers have gone 33-19 against Eastern Conference teams. Cleveland is seventh in the Eastern Conference in rebounding averaging 44.4 rebounds. Evan Mobley paces the Cavaliers with 9.0 boards.

The Raptors have gone 33-19 against Eastern Conference opponents. Toronto has a 21-27 record against teams above .500.

The Cavaliers are shooting 48.2% from the field this season, 1.5 percentage points higher than the 46.7% the Raptors allow to opponents. The Raptors are shooting 48.2% from the field, 1.8% higher than the 46.4% the Cavaliers' opponents have shot this season.

TOP PERFORMERS: Mitchell is averaging 27.9 points, 5.7 assists and 1.5 steals for the Cavaliers. James Harden is averaging 15.3 points and 5.9 assists over the last 10 games.

Scottie Barnes is averaging 18.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists and 1.5 blocks for the Raptors. Ja'Kobe Walter is averaging 2.6 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Cavaliers: 7-3, averaging 121.8 points, 45.0 rebounds, 29.1 assists, 7.6 steals and 3.9 blocks per game while shooting 50.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.0 points per game.

Raptors: 6-4, averaging 119.8 points, 41.0 rebounds, 32.3 assists, 10.0 steals and 4.4 blocks per game while shooting 52.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 107.6 points.

INJURIES: Cavaliers: James Harden: day to day (rest), Dean Wade: day to day (ankle), Dennis Schroder: day to day (rest), Evan Mobley: day to day (calf), Keon Ellis: day to day (knee), Jarrett Allen: day to day (injury management), Thomas Bryant: day to day (calf), Sam Merrill: day to day (hamstring), Donovan Mitchell: day to day (ankle).

Raptors: Chucky Hepburn: day to day (knee), Immanuel Quickley: day to day (hamstring).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Houston Rockets (52-30, fifth in the Western Conference) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (53-29, fourth in the Western Conference)

Los Angeles; Saturday, 8:30 p.m. EDT

LINE: Rockets -5.5; over/under is 207.5

WESTERN CONFERENCE FIRST ROUND: Lakers host first series matchup

BOTTOM LINE: The Los Angeles Lakers host the Houston Rockets to open the Western Conference first round. Los Angeles went 2-1 against Houston during the regular season. The Lakers won the last regular season matchup 124-116 on Thursday, March 19 led by 40 points from Luka Doncic, while Alperen Sengun scored 27 points for the Rockets.

The Lakers are 33-19 in Western Conference games. Los Angeles has an 8-3 record in games decided by 3 points or fewer.

The Rockets are 29-23 against Western Conference opponents. Houston has a 5-9 record in games decided by less than 4 points.

The Lakers make 50.2% of their shots from the field this season, which is 4.2 percentage points higher than the Rockets have allowed to their opponents (46.0%). The Rockets average 11.5 made 3-pointers per game this season, 1.3 fewer made shots on average than the 12.8 per game the Lakers allow.

TOP PERFORMERS: Jake LaRavia is scoring 8.2 points per game and averaging 4.0 rebounds for the Lakers. LeBron James is averaging 18.7 points and 6.3 rebounds over the last 10 games.

Kevin Durant is averaging 26 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists for the Rockets. Reed Sheppard is averaging 3.4 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Lakers: 7-3, averaging 116.2 points, 41.4 rebounds, 28.6 assists, 10.4 steals and 4.5 blocks per game while shooting 52.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 112.2 points per game.

Rockets: 9-1, averaging 123.6 points, 49.1 rebounds, 28.7 assists, 7.7 steals and 5.7 blocks per game while shooting 49.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 108.4 points.

INJURIES: Lakers: Austin Reaves: out (rib), Jaxson Hayes: day to day (foot), Luka Doncic: out (hamstring).

Rockets: Kevin Durant: day to day (rest), Amen Thompson: day to day (rest), Fred VanVleet: out for season (acl), Steven Adams: out for season (ankle), Jabari Smith Jr.: day to day (rest), Alperen Sengun: day to day (rest).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

New Patriots star has bold claim about Bears’ Caleb Williams, despite playing with Drake Maye originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Star safety Kevin Byard, who played for the Chicago Bears during the 2025 season, might not be on the roster any longer, but he certainly seems like he has a lot of respect for what the future of this organization is. That all starts with youngster Caleb Williams, who is going to be entering his third year in the NFL next season.

Williams had a great season a year ago, certainly the best of his young career. He still has some things to figure out in the National Football League, though that was to be expected when he entered the league. While Williams was viewed as a generational talent, typically, every young quarterback needs some time to learn things.

However, according to Byard, he doesn't seem to have much to learn. In fact, Byard went as far as to say that while every quarterback needs time to develop, he wouldn't want anybody else under center than the Bears' young star.

“Well, he already has the nickname “Iceman,” and the reason why is — young quarterbacks, they’re gonna need time to develop. But when you talk about game on the line, and we need him to make a play, there’s really nobody I’d rather have under center,” Byard said, per USA Today.

It's interesting that he said that when he's going to play with the New England Patriots and another young star quarterback in Drake Maye, but this also goes to show what Williams is viewed as around the league. 

Williams really put some guys on notice over the second half of last season. If he continues to develop at the level he did a year ago, it's scary to think about how good this young man can be.

More NFL news:

• Browns’ Todd Monken believes former 1,000-yard star WR will turn things around after horrid year
• Seahawks ex-star DK Metcalf in danger of being cut due to contract situation
• Dolphins trade idea finally brings a wide receiver in for new quarterback Malik Willis
• Browns trade proposal ends Dillon Gabriel experiment in deal to team that will have too many quarterbacks
• Bengals’ Cole Kmet trade proposal would give Joe Burrow another great target
• Raiders trade idea shuts down Cowboys biggest offseason issue and Dallas would get a first-round pick in return

Browns’ Todd Monken believes former 1,000-yard star WR will turn things around after horrid year originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

If the Cleveland Browns end up playing better football throughout the 2026-27 NFL season, it'll likely be because some of their top players return to what they once were. The Browns are a tough team to evaluate in some sense, as they're better on paper than they typically play, though much of that is due to some of their top players again, just not playing at the level they need to.

It wasn't an ideal season for Jerry Jeudy for many reasons. 

Jeudy is a good player, but probably isn't one of those upper-echelon wide receivers. 

He proved that he could be one of them in 2024 in his first season with the Browns, but he only had 602 yards a year ago on 50 receptions. Cleveland will need a lot more from him moving forward, and new head coach Todd Monken seems to believe it's a possibility that it unfolds that way this year.

“I think we are going to be able to get Jerry Jeudy back to two years ago. That’s not a leap. But that’s a re-leap—is that a word? But I think we’re going to be able to do that,” Monken said, per Heavy.

In Jeudy's defense, it's tough to blame a wide receiver too much if the offense has multiple quarterbacks coming in and out of games week in and week out. Jeudy also needs quarterbacks to throw him the football at the level he deserves it for any of this to be a conversation.

More NFL news:

• Seahawks ex-star DK Metcalf in danger of being cut due to contract situation
• Dolphins trade idea finally brings a wide receiver in for new quarterback Malik Willis
• Browns trade proposal ends Dillon Gabriel experiment in deal to team that will have too many quarterbacks
• Bengals’ Cole Kmet trade proposal would give Joe Burrow another great target
• Raiders trade idea shuts down Cowboys biggest offseason issue and Dallas would get a first-round pick in return
• Bills and Raiders trade proposal would send one of Josh Allen’s weapons to Fernando Mendoza

What channel is Magic vs. Hornets on today? Time, TV schedule to watch 2026 NBA Play-In Tournament game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The NBA Play-In Tournament has only two games left on Friday night, the first of which is the Orlando Magic hosting the Charlotte Hornets at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Charlotte began its tournament in a must-win game against the Miami Heat. Buzz City was able to get past Miami in overtime, but not without a bit of controversy. During the second quarter, Bam Adebayo blocked one of LaMelo Ball's shots, with Ball ending up on the deck. The Hornets star ended up grabbing Adebayo's leg and bringing him down awkwardly on his tailbone. Miami's single-game scoring record-holder left the game and would not return, leading to a narrow 127-126 defeat.

Orlando's season has come off the rails down the line. In the last 20 regular-season games, they went 10-10, including a 113-108 loss in their final game of the season to a Celtics team that was resting their starters. The loss spiraled the team into the No. 8 spot of the Play-In, where they lost their first game to the Philadelphia 76ers by 12 points. A large part of why they lost so handily was Paolo Banchero's struggles. The Orlando star shot just 31.8% from the floor (7/22) and finished with 18 points. Desmond Bane's efficient 34 points were not enough to pull Orlando in front. The Magic will need to play fast against the Hornets, but their players have already been awaiting Jamahl Mosley's inevitable firing.

Heading into Friday's game, the Hornets have won three straight matchups against the Magic by an average of 20 points. The Charlotte faithful did their job, pushing their team to victory in the first game, but their team will be on the road in Orlando for this game. This shouldn't be a problem, as Charlotte has actually played better on the road this season.

Here's what you need to know about Friday's matchup between the Magic and Hornets, including broadcast information and start time.

What channel is Magic vs. Hornets on today?

• TV channel: None
• Live stream: Prime Video

Under the NBA’s new media rights agreement, every game of the 2026 Play-In Tournament will be streamed exclusively on Prime Video, marking the first time the entire tournament has shifted to a streaming-only platform.

Magic vs. Hornets start time

• Date: Friday, April 17
• Time: 7:30 p.m. ET

The 2026 NBA Play-In Tournament game between the Magic and Hornets is set to tip off Friday at 7:30 p.m. ET from Kia Center in Orlando, Fla.

This is the first time Orlando and Charlotte are meeting in the Play-In Tournament. The last time these two met after the regular season was during the 2010 First Round, when the Magic swept the Hornets.

NBA Play-In Tournament schedule 2026

NBA Playoffs schedule, key dates for 2026

Here are the key dates to know for the NBA Playoffs and offseason. 

* Can move up depending on earlier series

Related Links

• Latest NBA news and rumors
• Full 2025-26 NBA schedule and scores
• How to bet on the NBA
• The GOAT Debate: Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James

Uncertainty continues to surround Robert Lewandowski as Barcelona approach a decisive end to the season, with the striker’s future now one of the most talked-about topics at the club.

The veteran forward, whose current deal is nearing its expiry, remains at the centre of ongoing discussions. 

Barcelona are believed to be open to extending his stay by another year, but only under financial conditions that fit their current economic situation. 

That has created a delicate situation, especially with reports suggesting the player is not entirely convinced by the initial offer presented.

Lewandowski addresses the situation

With speculation growing by the day, Lewandowski has now addressed the situation publicly. 

Speaking on Esport3’s FanZone programme, the Polish striker chose his words carefully, making it clear that clarity will come in time rather than immediately.

He hinted that both he and the club are aligned in understanding the situation, but no final call has been made yet.

“We have time. The club knows exactly what I’m thinking. I need some time to think; that’s clear on both sides. 

“The most important thing is to know what we want to do this season. I don’t want to talk about offers or the future. La Liga is what matters. Then we can talk.”

On UCL exit

While contract talks remain unresolved, the emotional impact of Barcelona’s recent European exit has also altered the story around his future. 

Lewandowski has opened up about his future. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The Catalan side were knocked out of the Champions League by Atletico Madrid, a result that has left a lasting sting within the squad.

Reflecting on that disappointment, Lewandowski did not hide his frustration, especially given the ambitions Barcelona carried into the competition. 

“It always hurts to be knocked out of the Champions League. We wanted to fight until the end and reach the semi-finals, but that’s football. 

“We have to focus on La Liga. We want to win it. We’ve got a few days now and La Liga is all we’re thinking about.”

La Liga chances

Despite the setback in Europe, there is still a belief within the squad that domestic success can define their campaign. 

Lewandowski, as one of the dressing room leaders, underlined the importance of moving forward rather than dwelling on missed opportunities.

“It’s football; I think we have huge potential. We’re keen to win and play football. 

“Football isn’t always fair; we can win La Liga this season and we have important matches ahead. 

“We can’t dwell on what happened; the future is more important. There are good things and things that hurt more,” he concluded.

Reports earlier this week confirmed that Real Madrid are looking for a new manager this summer, and that they preferentially hold the position for an experienced campaigner who has held big managerial positions before.

After all, the recent bittersweet experiences with Alvaro Arbeloa and Xabi Alonso convince the Real Madrid administration that only an experienced name can handle the dressing room and the politics that arise with it.

Jose Mourinho, on that front, emerged as an option linked with the club alongside the likes of Jurgen Klopp, Lionel Scaloni and Didier Deschamps.

Mourinho’s stance

As confirmed by Fabrizio Romano in a recent report, Mourinho would love the opportunity to coach Real Madrid again should it present itself.

As of today, however, no talks have been held with the Portuguese manager yet, and the move is still in very preliminary stages.

In fact, he has not even been confirmed to be the first-choice managerial target.

Mourinho would love to return to Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Earlier this season, relations between Mourinho and Real Madrid soured after the Benfica manager defended Gianluca Prestianni during the controversy with Vinicius Jr.

He called out the Brazilian star’s provocative celebration and used it to mask the racial abuse on the field.

Mourinho’s stance, needless to say, did not go down well with the Real Madrid dressing room and it soon came to light that even the administration had closed the door to any future return for the ‘Special One.’

Now, though, he is back as one of the candidates seen to be capable of bringing the best out of the dressing room.

A lot, however, will depend on the upcoming FIFA World Cup and the top managers who will become available on the market after the event.

At just 22-years old, Justin Crawford is the starting centerfielder for the Philadelphia Phillies.

The left-handed hitting Crawford just turned 22 in January.

Flashing several outstanding tools, it is remarkable that a player as young as Crawford won a starting role on a contending baseball team.

But Crawford has the tools, and “makeup” that have allowed him to thrive as a professional baseball player.

About Justin Crawford:

At the start of the season, MLB.com ranked Crawford the third best prospect in the Phillies farm system.

Crawford was chosen out of Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, in the 1st round of the 2022 Major League Draft.

As a junior in high school, Crawford hit .525, with 20 stolen bases. As a senior, he hit .503 with five homers, and 20 stolen bases.

The Las Vegas Sunnamed Crawford the Male Athlete of the Year.

Crawford was given a $3,894,000 signing bonus as the No. 17 player chosen in the draft.

The son of former major league outfielder Carl Crawford, the younger Justin won the 2025 International League batting title, hitting .334, with a .411 on-base percentage at Triple-A Lehigh.

Crawford stole 46 bases last year, flashing the speed that makes him a threat on the bases.

Lehigh bench coach, Tank Anderson, told si.com, “He’s just so athletic. Like, he does some stuff where you’ll watch it and it doesn’t always look super textbook…But he has survival instincts, and his bat-to-ball skills are elite.

Crawford’s Grade 75 speed, and his Grade 60 hit tool, are just two of the reasons the Phillies feel comfortable enough with Crawford to start in him in center.

Scouting Evaluation:

Crawford should bring an outstanding combination of a solid batting average, and game-changing speed to the Phillies lineup.

If he continues on he previous professional path, Crawford will impact games by stretching a single to a double, and possibly, a double to a triple. And he’ll steal bases.

A good contact hitter, Crawford has the ability to put the ball in play, keeping his strikeouts to a minimum.

One of the concerns regarding Crawford’s hitting profile has been his tendency to hit the ball on the ground. With his speed, that’s isn’t terribly negative. Still, the Phillies would probably like to see him get more loft on the ball, hitting the gaps for extra bases.

Much like his father, Crawford will be more of a “pest” on offense, than a power threat. He may hit some home runs, but his game is based more on getting on base, potentially stealing, and scoring runs.

Currently, Crawford is hitting 9th in the Phillies lineup. However, he clearly profiles as a leadoff hitter, and that may eventually become his role.

Defensively, Baseball America states, “Scouts see a player whose elite speed can help him make up for the late jumps and rough routes.”

Before the season began, ESPN.com reported Crawford said, “"I feel ready," Crawford told reporters earlier this week. "I’m ready to go.”

Ready he was.

Before his first game, Justin took his mom to get a Philly Cheesesteak

. As msn.com said, My mom is a vegan. She walked in and asked for a cheesecake with no meat and they looked at her absolutely crazy.”

In fact, Crawford singled on the first pitch in his major league debut.

There is no question Justin Crawford inherited the talent and speed of his very successful father.

Now, Crawford has to relax and enjoy his opportunities as a 22-year-old Major League player.

Scouting Grade:60

An occasional Major League Baseball All Star with several quality tools.

Justin Crawford is a speedy, exciting rookie player with tremendous upside and a bright future with the Philadelphia Phillies.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Werder Bremen

The pressure is starting to mount on Werder Bremen, and things could get scary again if this weekend doesn’t go well.

Last week was a big chance for Bremen to put some real space between themselves and the relegation picture, but they weren’t able to take advantage. They went on the road to Köln, and went into an early hole when the hosts converted a penalty kick in the 7th minute.

Things went from bad to worse 15 minutes later when Werder lost captain Marco Friedl following a straight red card. It was a harsh decision since the defender fell more than he tackled the opposing player, but he was the last man. The deficit was doubled past the hour mark, and even though Romano Schmid pulled one back via a spot-kick of his own, it wasn’t enough at the end of the day. 

The performance was a tough one to analyze. The Green-Whites were not at their best, of course, but they didn’t play too poorly. They made a few early mistakes, and those proved to really hurt them. However, for extended stages they moved the ball well and defended as a unit, and if some things went a little different they could’ve easily gotten at least a point from proceedings.

Bremen are now in a tricky spot. Fortunately for them they’re not in any of the relegation places, and they are seven points clear of 17th place Wolfsburg with only a few games to go. The gap between them and 16th is a lot closer, though, with that distance only being three points.

There might not be a gap at all come Friday night. Neighbors St. Pauli currently sit in the relegation-playoff spot, and they will host the aforementioned Köln at the Millerntor-Stadion in the first game of the matchday. A win there wouldn’t put them ahead of Werder thanks to goal differential, but it would set the stage for a tight and tense final stretch.

Then again, Die Werderaner’s focus will be on taking care of their own business. While it’s already a must-win in terms of the league standings, it will also be a must-win game for the club’s pride. They lost the reverse-fixture in Hamburg, and the defeat was especially frustrating given how things went down, blowing a 1-0 lead and then conceding the winner relatively late on.

It’s one thing to lose in the Nordderby on the road, but to lose at home would be a hammer blow for Bremen.

Team news

The Green-Whites are still without a number of injured players, like Mitchell Weiser, Julian Malitini, Keke Topp and Karl Hein, while Marco Friedl is suspended. A few others are also questionable, with the statuses of Maximilian Wöber, Jens Stage, and Jovan Milosevic still up in the air. 

Predicted lineups

Backhaus, Agu, Pieper, Coulibaly, Deman, Puertas, Lynen, Stage, Schmid, Milosevic, Mbangula

Hamburg

When Hamburg defeated Wolfsburg on the road a month ago, it seemed like they had practically secured safety. However, recent results have kept them in the picture.

They’ve failed to win any of their last four. They tied Köln and Augsburg at home, while losing away to European contenders Borussia Dortmund and VfB Stuttgart. While none of those scores are horrific, the lack of points has prevented them from officially avoiding the drop zone.

Die Rothosen go into this game three points ahead of their bitter rivals, owning a better goal differential as well. That puts them six clear of the relegation-playoff. With five games to go, that should be too big of a safety net to screw up, but you never quite know in the Bundesliga.

A few more losses here, some wins for the teams below them, and Hamburg could very easily set themselves up for a nervy final few weeks. If they want to avoid all that, they could simply pick up a win here on derby day. It would be especially sweet, since it’d mean victories in both Nordderby fixtures this season. 

A big storyline for them this weekend will be the health of star defender Luka Vušković. The Tottenham loanee missed his team’s last game through a knee injury, and he’s not fully recovered from it. That has led to a tough situation.

Hamburg don’t necessarily need a win on this occasion, and keeping him away for an extra week so he can come back to full fitness is probably the smart decision. However, he will likely be desperate to play in the derby, and management will want him involved. Then again, this might not be their call to make.

His transfer value has skyrocketed, and it’s almost certain that Vušković will leave Tottenham in the summer for a massive transfer fee. Would Spurs want their star asset risked like this, which could cost them an insane amount of money down the line? They might make the decision and ask for the center-back to remain on the sidelines.

Whether or not he ends up featuring, HSV will still give everything they have to shut down their noisy neighbors one more time this campaign.

Team news

Along with Vušković, Hamburg could also be without the services of Albert Sambi Lokonga, Jean-Luc Dompé, Bakery Jatta, Alexander Røssing, and Yussuf Poulsen.

Predicted lineups

Fernandes, Capaldo, Torunarigha, Vušković, Mikelbrencis, Elfadli, Rember, Balde, Viera, Konigsdorffer, Glatzel

Chelsea have made a surprising decision regarding Alejandro Garnacho’s future at the club. 

According to The Sun, the Blues are open to selling the 21-year-old in the summer transfer window. 

Garnacho joined Chelsea last summer from Manchester United in a £40 million deal. 

He has endured a difficult season at Stamford Bridge, scoring just one goal in 21 Premier League appearances. 

The Argentine has netted eight times in all competitions, but half of them have come against Football League teams in cup games. 

Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior is believed to have reservations about Garnacho and has used him sparingly since his appointment in January. 

Rosenior prefers to start Pedro Neto on the left wing, while the club also signed Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund last summer. 

Garnacho is an academy product of Man Utd, who rose through the club’s academy ranks to make his first-team debut at just 17. 

He established himself as a regular starter at United, bagging 26 goals and 22 assists in 144 appearances across all competitions. 

But the Argentina international had an acrimonious exit from Old Trafford last summer. 

Garnacho hit out at former coach Ruben Amorim for leaving him out of the starting XI for the Europa League final loss to Tottenham Hotspur. 

The winger admitted in a recent interview that he regretted his behaviour towards the end of his time at United. 

Stats from Transfermarkt 

“Every time we think we have a ceiling,” Ryan Warsofsky said about Macklin Celebrini, “we keep pushing the ceiling up.”

That’s been a constant of Celebrini’s career, from USHL to NCAA to NHL.

With the Chicago Steel, Macklin Celebrini scored 86 points in 2022-23, the most-ever for a 16-year-old in the USHL, winning Player and Rookie of the Year.

At Boston University, the 17-year-old became the youngest-ever to win the Hobey Baker Award for top NCAA player.

With the San Jose Sharks, the 19-year-old just broke Joe Thornton’s single-season franchise record for points.

A goal and two assists in a 6-1 victory over the Winnipeg Jets gave Celebrini 115 points, eclipsing Thornton’s 114 in 2006-07.

Celebrini is also challenging for the Hart Trophy because of stats like this: He had a hand in 46.2 percent of his team’s 249 goals, second only to Connor McDavid’s 48.9 percent for the Edmonton Oilers.

His 115 points is almost double Will Smith’s 59, the largest gap between No. 1 and No. 2 scorer on an NHL team this season.

On the international level, not only did Celebrini become the first-ever teenager to be selected to a Team Canada NHL Olympic roster, but he was also the best player in the world McDavid’s running mate throughout the tournament.

Celebrini couldn’t quite drag the San Jose Sharks into the post-season, but he led a remarkable 34-point improvement from last year, from worst in the league to the cusp of the playoff race until the final week of the regular season.

“What’s his ceiling?” San Jose Sharks announcer Randy Hahn asked, after the record-setting goal.

“What can he do, where can he take the Sharks?” color commentator Drew Remenda added. “How many more points can he get in a season?”

The truth is, the constant throughout Celebrini’s career, the standard that he’s established: Expect the remarkable, expect the unexpected.

It’s cliché to say the sky is the limit, but in Celebrini’s case, it’s reality.

Macklin Celebrini

Celebrini laughed, didn't expect to be drenched by water after his record-setting goal: "No, I didn’t. I was pretty drenched on the ice."

— Sheng Peng (@Sheng_Peng) April 17, 2026

Celebrini on Klingberg netting 3 assists in his 700th NHL game: "Just vintage John Klingberg."

— Sheng Peng (@Sheng_Peng) April 17, 2026

Watch the full interview here

John Klingberg

Klingberg, on if he had extra motivation heading into his 700th game:

Yeah, for sure. It was a milestone game for me today. A little bit of extra motivation. Again, didn’t mean anything for any of the teams, but we played for a lot out there. Obviously, Mack, to get to 115, was something that we wanted to see. And for myself as well, playing my 700th game and the last game of the season as well.

Watch the full interview here

Ryan Warsofsky

Warsofsky got emotional talking about Celebrini: "He's a special kid."

— Sheng Peng (@Sheng_Peng) April 17, 2026

What's Celebrini's ceiling?

Warosfsky: "Oh man, every time we think we have a ceiling, we keep pushing the ceiling up…I know he's extremely determined to get this team into the playoffs and do some damage."

— Sheng Peng (@Sheng_Peng) April 17, 2026

Warsofsky says Eklund is OK

— Sheng Peng (@Sheng_Peng) April 17, 2026

Watch the full interview here

Mario Ferraro

Ferraro, on the retirement of long-time San Jose Sharks equipment manager Mike Aldrich:

Mikey, it’s sad seeing him go, but I’m super happy for him. He’s had an amazing career here with the Sharks. I’m happy for him and his family. He gets to kick his feet up a little bit, relax.

He’s put in many, many late nights, early mornings, late hours, long hours, long road trips. And he’s really grinded for this organization.

What makes Mikey most special is just who he is as a person. I’ve had such an amazing time with him. He’s made me feel comfortable coming into the rink. He’s made me feel like San Jose, this team is just a family. He’s been a part of this family for a really long time. And like I said, huge congratulations to him. He should be very proud of the way he’s carried himself and how he’s represented the Sharks, and he’s been a rock for this organization for a super long time.

I hope him and his family can enjoy the first summer coming up here as Mikey is retired. I hope he gets to do the things he’s been dreaming of doing when he gets more time to himself.

The post Sharks Locker Room: The Celebrini Constant appeared first on San Jose Hockey Now.

Seahawks ex-star DK Metcalf in danger of being cut due to contract situation originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Seattle Seahawks made an interesting decision to send DK Metcalf to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the offseason a year ago. On the surface, it doesn't seem like the wrong idea, as the Seahawks went on to win a Super Bowl a year later. Metcalf, however, is a very good player in his own right.

Seattle got ahead of the curve on Metcalf, as it would eventually have had to give him another contract. Instead of worrying about that, the Seahawks decided to cut ways, and allowed guys like Jaxon Smith-Njigba to get a bigger role and thrive in them.

And according to the latest from Bleacher Report, it's possible that the saga with Metcalf is only getting started this offseason. It's believed that he won't play on his current contract.

“After the Steelers acquired Pittman from the Indianapolis Colts, they signed him to an extension. Meanwhile, Metcalf is set to play out the rest of his deal, which runs through 2029, without guaranteed money.” Moe Moton of BR wrote.

“There’s almost no chance that Metcalf plays another down on his current contract. The Steelers will need to rework his deal. Perhaps those negotiations have already begun. If not, Pittsburgh may prefer a wide receiver on a rookie contract over a seven-year veteran who needs a new one coming off an inconsistent season and a recent suspension.”

Metcalf has to be smart, as he doesn't want to get injured and miss out on the money he deserves. However, he might not get that money in Pittsburgh either. The Steelers have typically been reluctant to pay skill guys, or even to really do much with them, so that's something that will have to be factored in over the next few weeks.

More NFL news:

• Dolphins trade idea finally brings a wide receiver in for new quarterback Malik Willis
• Browns trade proposal ends Dillon Gabriel experiment in deal to team that will have too many quarterbacks
• Bengals’ Cole Kmet trade proposal would give Joe Burrow another great target
• Raiders trade idea shuts down Cowboys biggest offseason issue and Dallas would get a first-round pick in return
• Bills and Raiders trade proposal would send one of Josh Allen’s weapons to Fernando Mendoza
• Browns giving Shedeur Sanders grace after first season didn’t go as planned

Phillies absolutely can’t even think about this Andrew Painter trade proposal originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Philadelphia Phillies have struggled to start the 2026 campaign at 8-10, something the organization will need to fix over the next few weeks to months. If the Phillies are hopeful that they can still be one of the elite teams in the National League, a lot of that will start by simply adding another player or two. 

The Phillies have had some lackluster trade deadlines over the past few years, so Dave Dombrowski might not want to take that approach, but if he has nothing else to do, there won't be any hope for this organization long and short-term.

The one thing the Phillies have to decide is whether to move on from young players to acquire proven guys, though that doesn't always work out at the level fans typically hope for. In a recent trade idea, while Philadelphia would get back a very good player, an All-Star, it would require moving on from Andrew Painter.

To me, that's a no-go.

Phillies Acquire: CJ Abrams

Nationals Acquire: Andrew Painter, Aroon Escobar, Gabriel Rincones Jr.

“The Phillies would make this trade because CJ Abrams has broken out in 2026 (.356 AVG with 6 HR in 16 games) and now looks like a potential elite, long-term impact bat. They would be acting on the belief that he is already becoming a true star at a premium position, and that his combination of hitting ability, speed, and emerging power can help them immediately in a championship window,” Ryan Shea of SI wrote.

I like Abrams as a player and think he’d be a nice addition to this Phillies lineup if we're simply going off offensive help. However, giving up on Painter right now just makes absolutely no sense. Painter is proving already that he has the stuff to be a very good arm for a very long time, so moving on from him just shouldn't even be a thought, and I can almost say for certain that the Phillies aren't even entertaining the idea.

More MLB news:

• Dodgers trade idea would only add to fans frustrations over how good Los Angeles is
• Trey Yesavage update sounds ideal for Blue Jays amid injuries that could determine whether they make postseason
• Blue Jays get promising update on Addison Barger ahead of Diamondbacks series
• Blue Jays again criticized for factor they can’t control, but is a harsh one to deal with in Toronto
• Yankees bashed for not fixing issue after losing two elite players to Mets during offseason
• Red Sox made an Alex Bregman mistake, but it actually started before letting him walk to Cubs

Liverpool Eye Daniel Banjaqui as Right-Back Solution

Search for Alexander-Arnold Successor Intensifies

Credit to Anfield Watch for revealing Liverpool’s latest transfer thinking, as the club prepares for a defining summer window. The absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold has sharpened focus on a position once taken for granted, now exposed as structurally vital.

“There are very few players in world football who can match his quality, especially in terms of distribution and creativity from deep and especially from right-back. His ability to dictate play and break down defences is unrivalled, there is no one like him.”

Concerns Surround Current Options

Liverpool’s internal solutions have not entirely convinced. Conor Bradley has shown promise, yet fitness concerns linger.

Photo IMAGO

“There’s no doubt he still has a role to play within the squad, but Liverpool need more certainty in such a vital position.”

Meanwhile, Jeremie Frimpong remains an intriguing but imperfect fit. His attacking instincts are clear, though defensive reliability remains in question. As one might observe, Liverpool are caught between potential and practicality, and elite teams rarely tolerate that tension for long.

Daniel Banjaqui Emerges as Key Target

Into this space steps Daniel Banjaqui, an 18-year-old talent emerging from Benfica under Jose Mourinho.

“Anfield Watch can exclusively reveal that one of the club’s top targets for the position is Daniel Banjaqui and Liverpool are exploring a potential move for the 18-year-old right-back, who is seen as an ideal profile for the football the Reds want to play.”

His early performances suggest a player comfortable in both phases. In his first start, he delivered four tackles, won twelve duels, and provided an assist in a 4-0 victory. These are not just numbers, they are indicators of a player who understands the rhythm of the game.

World Champion Profile Fits Long-Term Vision

Banjaqui’s credentials extend beyond club football. His role in FIFA U17 World Cup success with Portugal highlights both durability and tactical intelligence.

“Banjaqui also caught the eye at the U17 World Cup, where he played a key role in Portugal triumphing in the tournament, playing all of his country’s eight matches en-route to lifting the trophy and becoming a world champion.”

Liverpool’s recruitment model has increasingly leaned towards identifying elite potential early. The appeal here is not only immediate contribution but long-term squad planning, including homegrown eligibility.

“It would be a genius move from Liverpool, who believe Banjaqui would be ready to play a role in the first-team immediately.”

There is a quiet confidence in that assessment, suggesting Liverpool see more than promise. They see readiness.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool supporters will read this with cautious optimism. The idea of replacing Alexander-Arnold has always felt close to impossible, yet the club appears to be shifting the question. Instead of finding a like-for-like successor, they are identifying a player who can evolve the role.

Banjaqui’s profile is compelling. He offers balance, something Liverpool have lacked in that area since Alexander-Arnold’s departure disrupted the system. A defender who can win duels and still contribute creatively aligns with what modern full-backs are expected to deliver.

There will be natural scepticism around signing an 18-year-old with limited senior experience. However, Liverpool’s recent recruitment from youth tournaments suggests a clear strategy. Players like Ifeanyi Ndukwe and Mor Talla Ndiaye point towards a broader vision, one that prioritises ceiling over immediate certainty.

Fans may also question whether Banjaqui can adapt quickly enough to Premier League intensity. That concern is valid, yet Liverpool’s belief that he can contribute immediately hints at strong internal scouting conviction.

Ultimately, this feels like a move shaped by necessity but guided by long-term thinking. If executed well, it could redefine the right-back role at Anfield for years to come.

Celtic loanee Johnny Kenny has suggested the gap in quality between the Scottish Premiership and England’s League One is minimal, as he continues to impress during his spell at Bolton Wanderers….

Johnny Kenny of Bolton Wanderers. Lincoln City v Bolton Wanderers, League One, LNER Stadium, Lincoln, 14 February 2026. Photo Anna Gowthorpe IMAGO/Shutterstock

The Irish forward made it three goals in successive matches with a strike in a 5-1 midweek victory over Stevenage. He has also developed a promising understanding in attack alongside former Dundee United man Sam Dalby.

Kenny believes his transition to life in England has been smooth. Speaking after his latest outing, the Hoops striker revealed his thoughts on his form and adaptation to the league at the Lancashire club.

He said via Daily Record: “I wouldn’t say that it’s a lot different from the Scottish Premiership. I’ve been playing at Celtic Park now for the last year and at other stadiums in Scotland. We’re going to 60,000 at Celtic Park, and now we’re coming here. I don’t know what there is here, 3,000, 4,000…”

Johnny Kenny of Celtic celebrates scoring the opening goal during the Scottish Cup Fourth Round match between Auchinleck Talbot and Celtic at Rugby Park on January 18, 2026. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

“So obviously, that part is different, but you have to control what you can control on the pitch. It can’t really affect what’s around you. You just need to focus on the pitch.”

“I came in with a calf injury, so it set me back probably two or three weeks, so I was just trying to build up to full fitness. But I have a connection on the pitch with Sam Dalby.”

“Down here, it’s probably a bit more physical than what I’m used to up the road. Probably a bit more direct at times, but it’s something I want to learn and get used to.”

“I want to be here until the end of the season and perform and get us back to where we belong.”

Johnny Kenny scores. Celtic v theRangers. Premier Sports Cup, semi final at Hampden. 2 November 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

Bolton currently sit third in League One with three games remaining before they play in the play-offs as Kenny and his teammates attempt to reach the English Championship.

Conor Spence

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Iranian women ‌football players Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh have thanked the ⁠Australian government ⁠for offering a “safe haven” and said they wished to resume their sporting careers after rebuilding their ⁠lives.

In their first public comments since being granted humanitarian visas, the players said in a statement on Friday the compassion and support ⁠shown to them had provided them hope for a future where they could live and compete in safety.

“We wish to express our deepest gratitude to the Australian government, and particularly Home Affairs Minister ‌Tony Burke, for granting us humanitarian protection and a safe haven in this beautiful country,” they said.

Australia initially granted humanitarian visas to six players and one support staff member from the Iranian squad after their Asian Cup campaign in Australia began just as the United States and Israel launched ⁠air strikes on Iran.

Five of the group subsequently ⁠changed their minds and decided to return home, leaving only Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh in Australia.

The duo began training with the A-League Women’s team Brisbane Roar last month.

“At ⁠this stage, our primary focus is on our safety, our health and beginning the process ⁠of rebuilding our lives,” they said.

“We are ⁠elite athletes, and it remains our dream to continue our sporting careers here in Australia.”

Concerns over the Iranian players’ safety surfaced after several players did not ‌sing the national anthem at an Asian Cup match, with Iranian state TV labelling them “wartime traitors”.

The rest of the team arrived ‌home ‌in Iran last month via the Turkish border after a fraught return journey from Australia.

Dodgers trade idea would only add to fans frustrations over how good Los Angeles is originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The scary part of the 2026 MLB season is that the Los Angeles Dodgers aren't even playing great baseball, and they're still the best team in the league at 14-4. 

It isn't exactly like the Dodgers have been hitting their way to 10-plus run wins, but they know how to win ball games, and at the end of the day, there's a lot to be said about that. However, it's terrifying to think about how good this team might be once guys like Kyle Tucker, Freddie Freeman, and others really get going at the level we know they will.

It's also terrifying to think about the fact that the Dodgers can still go out and make a blockbuster trade whenever they want. 

The Dodgers have a ton of ammo in the farm system and have been linked to just about every top name on the market. A recent trade idea would accomplish just that and perhaps break baseball for the rest of the year.

Dodgers would acquire: SP Tarik Skubal

Tigers would acquire: OF Josue De Paula, SS Emil Morales, SP River Ryan, OF Zyhir Hope

“The Tigers would make this trade because it allows them to capitalize on peak value from Tarik Skubal rather than risk losing him for nothing in free agency after 2027. Even though Skubal is a two-time Cy Young winner and one of the most dominant starters in baseball, his contract timeline makes him a prime candidate for a blockbuster return while his value is at its highest,” Ryan Shea of SI wrote.

Baseball is one of those weird games where we can't guarantee a team will ever win a World Series. However, if the Dodgers were to add a starter of Skubal's caliber, we can almost say Los Angeles will win it all.

Remember, the Dodgers were almost done in the World Series a year ago before some magic happened, so I don't want to guarantee anything, but this would almost do just that.

More MLB news:

• Trey Yesavage update sounds ideal for Blue Jays amid injuries that could determine whether they make postseason
• Blue Jays get promising update on Addison Barger ahead of Diamondbacks series
• Blue Jays again criticized for factor they can’t control, but is a harsh one to deal with in Toronto
• Yankees bashed for not fixing issue after losing two elite players to Mets during offseason
• Red Sox made an Alex Bregman mistake, but it actually started before letting him walk to Cubs
• Juan Soto gets new return to play update for New York Mets

Remember when old what’s-his-name bolted to Texas A&M after two seasons at Duke? What was his name? Oh, yeah: Midnight Mike. Mike Elko.

He was replaced by Manny Diaz, and so far, Diaz has taken Duke to two bowl championships and a dramatic, pulse-pounding ACC championship as well.

His Duke record is 18-9, and on Thursday, Diaz was rewarded with a 5-year extension that runs through 2031.

And unlike Elko, Diaz seems to want to be at Duke, and seems to grok the whole experience.

Like most Duke fans, and especially those of us who recall back-to-back zero-win seasons, we’re thrilled with the job Diaz has done.

We’re also thrilled that he wants to stay.

• Duke football head coach Manny Diaz receives contract extension through 2031 season
• Duke, Manny Diaz agree to contract extension through 2031 – ESPN
• Duke announces contract extension with football coach Manny Diaz through 2031 season – WCCB Charlotte
• Duke football coach Manny Diaz gets contract extension as ‘right leader’ for Blue Devils

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The end of the NHL regular season locks in the winners of the Maurice 'Rocket' Richard, Art Ross and William M. Jennings Trophies.

Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid won the Art Ross Trophy for recording the most points in the NHL.

Colorado Avalanche superstar Nathan MacKinnon won the Rocket Richard Trophy for scoring the most goals.

And Avalanche netminders Scott Wedgewood and Mackenzie Blackwood won the William Jennings Trophy for playing at least 25 games on the team that allowed the fewest goals against.

Here's more on each award winner.

Art Ross Trophy Winner: Connor McDavid

McDavid picked up another award on top of his already impressive resume.

The 29-year-old recorded 138 points in 82 games this season, made up of 48 goals and a league-leading 90 assists.

The last time McDavid picked up this award was in 2022-23, when he registered a career-high 153 points.

He reclaims the Art Ross after Tampa Bay Lightning right winger Nikita Kucherov led the league in points for the past two seasons, with 121 and 130 points.

Kucherov recorded 130 points again this season and finished second in the NHL scoring race. MacKinnon ended third with 127, while San Jose Sharks sophomore phenom Macklin Celebrini set a franchise record for most points in a season, with 115, to finish fourth. Winnipeg Jets center Mark Scheifele finished fifth with 103 points.

This is McDavid's sixth career Art Ross Trophy win, which ties Mario Lemieux for the second-most in NHL history. Wayne Gretzky has the most with 10.

Maurice 'Rocket' Richard Trophy Winner: Nathan MacKinnon

MacKinnon earned his first-career Rocket Richard Trophy, with 53 goals. He ended his season with 74 assists and 127 points in 80 games.

The 30-year-old center finished with two more goals than Montreal Canadiens right winger Cole Caufield (51) and McDavid (48). The Dallas Stars' Wyatt Johnston and Minnesota Wild's Kirill Kaprizov round out the top five with 45 goals each.

MacKinnon becomes the second Avalanche player to win the Rocket Richard Trophy. The first one was Milan Hejduk in 2002-03.

Last year's winner was Edmonton Oilers' Leon Draisaitl, who scored 52 goals in 71 games in 2024-25.

William M. Jennings Trophy Winners: Scott Wedgewood And Mackenzie Blackwood

On top of the team's Presidents' Trophy and MacKinnon's Rocket Richard Trophy, the Avalanche's goaltenders added to the hardware.

Wedgewood and Blackwood claim the Jennings Trophy because the Avalanche finished the season with the fewest goals against in the NHL, with 203, including shootout-deciders.

Wedgewood, 33, played the most of the two goalies, featuring in 45 contests. He registered a 2.02 goals-against average and a .921 save percentage.

Blackwood, 29, played 39 games, recording a 2.51 GAA and a .904 SP.

The last goalie to win this award with the Avalanche was Patrick Roy in 2002.

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Dolphins trade idea finally brings a wide receiver in for new quarterback Malik Willis originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Miami Dolphins have attempted to get better in certain areas during the offseason, but much of it has centered on what they still need to do. 

I like the idea of bringing in Malik Willis, as he's proven during his young career that he has a lot of tools and could be a decent player one day, something the Dolphins need, but that doesn't mean he'll find success if the rest of the roster isn't up to the standard it needs to be.

Sticking with the offensive side of the football, the Dolphins could use a lot of help in their wide receiver room. After moving on from Jaylen Waddle in a deal with the Denver Broncos, and also getting rid of Tyreek Hill, the Dolphins simply have one of the worst wide receiver rooms in the NFL, and that's putting it nicely.

A recent trade idea wouldn't fix all of that, but it would certainly bring Miami closer than it is now.

Dolphins get: Xavier Legette, 2026 Sixth Round Pick (No. 200)

Carolina Panthers Receive - 2026 Fifth Round Pick (No. 151), 2026 Seventh Round Pick (238)

“Miami desperately needs weapons because they want their new quarterback to have a shot to be successful; however, they are also on a tight budget due to all the dead cap space they have taken on from moving on from stars to start this rebuild.

“What they do have is a ton of draft picks. It's unlikely they'll find a more talented receiver with more upside than Legette on Day 3 of the draft. This is a low-risk, high-upside move on a young player at the start of a rebuild,” Mark Morales-Smith of SI wrote.

Legette is a really tough player to evaluate in some sense. The hope for him coming out of college was that he'd be an elite player and a big target for the Panthers. 

Unfortunately, that hasn't really been the case so far. Some Panthers fans have also grown frustrated with him, but he could just be a guy who needs a new chance elsewhere.

More NFL news:

• Browns trade proposal ends Dillon Gabriel experiment in deal to team that will have too many quarterbacks
• Bengals’ Cole Kmet trade proposal would give Joe Burrow another great target
• Raiders trade idea shuts down Cowboys biggest offseason issue and Dallas would get a first-round pick in return
• Bills and Raiders trade proposal would send one of Josh Allen’s weapons to Fernando Mendoza
• Browns giving Shedeur Sanders grace after first season didn’t go as planned
• Robert Griffin III reveals who he thinks should start for Browns between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson

Former colleagues. Master and apprentice. Title rivals.

Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta's relationship has cut across a range of strands over the years - and evolved along with their managerial styles.

The pair go head to head at Etihad Stadium on Sunday in a match many have billed as a Premier League title decider. A win for Guardiola and second-placed Manchester City would cut the lead of Arteta's Arsenal side to just three points, with a game in hand.

The Spaniards' relationship started in 1997 when Arteta joined Barcelona's academy - meeting his idol, Barca skipper and fellow midfielder Guardiola. Their time as team-mates was brief, but a friendship was forged.

Communication between the two managers cooled significantly when Arteta gave up his role as Guardiola's assistant in Manchester back in 2019 to take charge of Arsenal.

While the City boss' other former assistants maintained closer contact, Arteta stepped away - and that distance created silence.

Guardiola appreciates those that give and take continuously, but if that is not clearly expressed, relationships can fracture even without a clear conflict. Arteta is someone who moves forward without being dependent on past professional bonds.

Contact was eventually re-established in the last year and tensions eased. Nobody wants to say who made the first call, but they speak again.

They are now competing for the same trophies but, at the same time, recognise the strength of the friendship, and both suffer in that solitary place that is managing a football team at the very top.

• Man City smell blood - why Arsenal should fear title rivals
• 'Bottle word will be used' as Arsenal blow title advantage

How Guardiola created a new way of winning

There was a time when Spanish football on Sunday evenings became a kind of ritual for coaches across Europe when the Guardiola-led Barcelona were in action. For 90 minutes everyone tried to understand what they were watching.

Liverpool-born Andy Mangan, opposition scout for Brazil this summer, remembers it as an education.

"At first I didn't understand what he was doing," said Mangan. "But every week he would identify a space to attack, and every Sunday you watched those players play with joy. We were kids but it was inadvertently a vital learning period of so many coaches' lives."

Guardiola built a successful team, but he also created a new way of winning.

Pep Segura, former director of football at Barcelona and ex-Liverpool academy head, added: "Of the four phases of the game - attack, defence, offensive transition, defensive transition - until Pep arrived, most teams structured themselves defensively and took whatever the game gave them. They were reactive. Guardiola arrived and said, 'no, we will think about how we play from the way we attack'."

Football reorganised around possession, positioning and numerical superiority with the ball as the centre of everything. This triggered a response and was where Arteta's story began.

"Teams started asking themselves how to counter this… with pressing and, above all, quick transitions," said Segura.

The game evolved in response to Guardiola's approach; transitions became sharper, physical demands increased, players had to think about what they were doing or had to do.

Crucially, Arteta grew up as a coach in that world.

'A formidable dance partner'

Those who worked closely within that period describe Arteta's time alongside Guardiola at City not just as an apprenticeship. He was remembered as a "formidable dance partner", immersed in the intensity of the manager's methodology.

Guardiola valued his input highly as he helped raise standards in training, particularly in intensity, aggression and competitive detail.

Having played for both Everton and Arsenal, Arteta opened Guardiola's eyes about the Premier League tempo, refereeing, emotional volatility of fans and physical demands.

But he was never a "fundamentalist" of Guardiola's ideas. While aligned in principles when he was his assistant, he was already developing his own thinking. Guardiola innovated and Arteta imagined how the game would adapt.

Segura added: "Unlike Pep, who had to learn transitions which he started doing in Germany, Arteta was born and grew up with them. He played in England, he knows them."

Guardiola's teams, at their core, have always dominated two phases of the game; attacking organisation and defensive transition. They control matches through possession and react immediately when the ball is lost.

Arteta's early Arsenal teams leaned heavily on control, but eventually moved on.

Former Celta Vigo assistant David Martinez explained: "I think he understood that to be competitive and aspire to win titles - offensively there are teams with more resources and talent than Arsenal. He understood he had to base his improvement on dominating everything."

Robert Moreno, former Spain coach, argued Arteta developed his own voice into producing one of the most effective units in Europe.

Mangan also added: "What's fascinating with Mikel is that he's understood where the game is going very quickly - duels, set-pieces, long throws… all the things that now decide matches."

But that process Arteta has worked on comes at a price.

The more a team relies on rehearsed mechanisms, the more it depends on precision. If execution drops, the system can struggle.

This is a key distinction from Guardiola.

Elite teams managed by him maintain an ideal combination of intelligence within structure, and he has players capable of improvising solutions when patterns break down.

At times, Arsenal are perceived as more rigid. There are moments where, instead of breaking structure to solve problems, players remain locked into roles.

'Winning isn't enough any more'

While Arsenal learned to compete at the highest level, Guardiola continued to evolve.

That tension - between adapting and remaining faithful to an idea - defines the 55-year-old's career.

"He starts incorporating new concepts," said Segura. "Above all defensive transition, that's where he evolves enormously.

"Arteta incorporated more physical profiles than Pep. Pep seeks more technical players… Arteta looks for strength, speed, power."

But there are still plenty of points of convergence.

"Both have looked for pieces to improve the offensive transition," added Segura. "City with [Erling] Haaland… Arteta with [Viktor] Gyokeres."

There is an element where the comparison becomes most revealing. In elite football, what defines coaches is how they respond to difficulty.

Arteta is in that moment now. He has built a team capable of competing with the best. But the final step - winning consistently at the very top - is where he wants to get to.

When results do not follow, the temptation is always the same; change and react to external pressure. Arteta has not abandoned those ideas. He has doubled down. He has asked more of his players, pushed harder but within the same framework.

In elite sport, losing is considered part of the process. The next step is evolving and trying again with the same effort, or more.

Guardiola has lived that cycle repeatedly. After setbacks, after criticism, he has returned to his principles and expanded them.

Former Burnley, Everton and Nottingham Forest boss Sean Dyche has witnessed that resilience up close.

"In difficult times, Pep didn't panic," he said. "He adjusted, but he stayed true to what he believes.

"I think it's brilliant management from Pep, and Arteta… they have tried to win a certain way, but they have also evolved to play in ways that we knew before."

There is another layer to the challenge Arteta faces, one created, in part, by Guardiola himself.

"The biggest shift in football now is that winning isn't enough anymore," added Dyche. "People ask how you win."

Guardiola changed expectations.

So now Arsenal, despite their development, are judged on results of course, but also on perception.

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Rashford’s Barcelona Future in Doubt as Transfer Reality Bites

Credit to Marca for the original reporting, which paints an increasingly uncertain picture around Marcus Rashford and his long term future at FC Barcelona.

Form Dip Raises Red Flags

What once felt inevitable now feels fragile. Rashford’s early months in Spain hinted at revival, a forward rediscovering rhythm away from the scrutiny of Manchester United. Yet football rarely allows sentiment to override evidence.

As reported, “Marcus Rashford’s chances of staying at Barcelona next season are dwindling with each passing day.” That decline is rooted firmly in output. Two goals in his last 16 matches tells a stark story, one that elite clubs rarely ignore when planning forward lines.

There is also context that sharpens the concern. With Raphinha absent through injury, this was Rashford’s opportunity to take ownership of the attack. Instead, the moment has passed him by, quietly but significantly.

Financial Reality Shapes Decision

Barcelona’s hesitation is not purely tactical. It is financial, calculated, and unavoidable.

The €30 million clause, agreed last summer, now appears less appealing in a club still navigating economic constraint. As outlined, “the Catalan club considers that outlay excessive in the current economic climate.” Even with a market valuation suggesting a higher ceiling, the internal calculation is about certainty rather than potential.

Add to that the broader financial picture, where “Rashford would represent a cost of close to 25 million euros between salary and annual amortization of the transfer,” and the hesitation becomes clearer. This is not a marginal investment, it is a strategic commitment.

Photo IMAGO

Key Talks Will Decide Direction

The final verdict rests with Deco and Hansi Flick, two figures tasked with shaping Barcelona’s next iteration.

“The final decision, in any case, has not yet been made.” That line carries weight, suggesting room for change, though little margin for error. Rashford’s remaining matches may function as an audition, compressed into weeks rather than months.

Alternatives Already in Motion

Barcelona are not waiting passively. Recruitment plans are evolving, and alternatives are being explored.

This reflects a broader truth about elite football planning. Clubs do not gamble heavily on uncertainty when viable options exist. Rashford’s situation has shifted from priority to possibility, a subtle but important downgrade.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United perspective, this report invites mixed emotions.

On one hand, there is a sense of validation. Rashford’s inconsistency has long frustrated supporters, and seeing similar patterns emerge in Spain reinforces the idea that his challenges are not purely environmental. Confidence, decision making, and end product remain fluctuating variables.

On the other hand, there is a lingering question about utilisation. At his best, Rashford is a devastating transitional forward, someone who thrives on space and direct running. Barcelona’s more structured attacking patterns may not naturally amplify those strengths. A United fan could reasonably argue that system fit matters as much as form.

There is also the financial angle. If Barcelona walk away from a €30 million deal, United regain control of an asset whose value feels uncertain. That creates both risk and opportunity. Do they reintegrate him under a new tactical framework, or seek a different buyer willing to invest?

Ultimately, this feels like a defining summer. For Rashford, it is about proving he can still influence games at the highest level. For United, it is about deciding whether that future still belongs in red.

Browns trade proposal ends Dillon Gabriel experiment in deal to team that will have too many quarterbacks originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It's all but certain that the Cleveland Browns will have to move on from a quarterback over the next few months, and the most obvious answer to that is Dillon Gabriel. Gabriel wasn't bad during his time with the Browns as a starter, but certainly wasn't good enough to continue starting and warrant playing time moving forward.

That doesn't mean he doesn't have a future in the NFL, but it doesn't seem likely that it will be in Cleveland. If anything, there's a better chance that none of the quarterbacks on the Browns' current roster have a future with this organization, except perhaps Shedeur Sanders.

Looking for ways to trim the quarterback room, a recent trade idea was proposed: sending him to the Las Vegas Raiders. It doesn't make a whole lot of sense, though, as the Raiders are expected to add Fernando Mendoza and already landed Kirk Cousins.

Raiders Get: Gabriel

Browns Get: 2027 5th Round Pick, 2027 Conditional 7th Round Pick (6th if 3+ Games Started, 5th in 5+ Games Started)

“The Browns have a quarterback surplus. Gabriel is too young and promising to leave as the QB3. He deserves better. The Browns can easily trade him away for a couple of draft picks, low rounds, but draft picks indeed. Todd Monken begins to remodel this poor Browns team,” Thomas Carelli of SI wrote.

If the Browns could get back a fifth-round pick for Gabriel, it seems smart to just make the trade now and go with it. It was already questionable when they drafted him in the third round, so admitting defeat and getting something in return could be a wise decision.

More NFL news:

• Bengals’ Cole Kmet trade proposal would give Joe Burrow another great target
• Raiders trade idea shuts down Cowboys biggest offseason issue and Dallas would get a first-round pick in return
• Bills and Raiders trade proposal would send one of Josh Allen’s weapons to Fernando Mendoza
• Browns giving Shedeur Sanders grace after first season didn’t go as planned
• Robert Griffin III reveals who he thinks should start for Browns between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson
• Browns’ Todd Monken told Shedeur Sanders exactly what he wants in his starting quarterback

Moises Caicedo has agreed a new deal at Chelsea keeping him at the club until 2033 with just an official announcement remaining according to Fabrizio Romano.

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Chelsea paid a club record £115m for Caicedo when they signed him from Brighton in the summer of 2023, and he’s established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.

The Ecuadorian is a key player for the Blues, although like many this season his form has dipped, partly due to his exploits at the Club World Cup.

Moises Caicedo to sign new contract at Chelsea

Chelsea’s ownership have been coming under severe pressure from the fans, with a protest against BlueCo set to take place ahead of the Manchester United game on Saturday

Fans are not happy with how the club is being run and the direction Chelsea are heading in, and they need to take action to prove otherwise.

The Blues have been keen to tie key players down to new contracts, and Cole Palmer signed an extension until 2033, whilst Reece James signed a new six year deal earlier this year.

There have been talks over a new deal for Caicedo, and that is now reportedly agreed, with Romano providing an update on the situation.

He took to X.com and said:

“Moisés Caicedo’s new contract at Chelsea: salary improved, two more years until June 2033, totally sharing club view for long term.

“Here we go. Announcement next.”

Caicedo’s existing deal ran until 2031, and the 24-year-old has made 140 appearances for the Blues to date, winning the Conference League and Club World Cup.

If you enjoy Chelsea News coverage and want to see more of it, add us as a preferred source on Google to make us a favourite and see more of our content.

In other news…

Chelsea are thought to have stepped up their interest in Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, ahead of a possible move this summer.

More Stories / Latest News

“Here we go” – Fabrizio Romano confirms major Chelsea news

17th Apr 2026, 06:45am

“A a results business” – Chelsea co-owner doesn’t sound fully convinced on Liam Rosenior

17th Apr 2026, 06:30am

Behdad Eghbali confirms they are tweaking the model at Chelsea and learning from mistakes

17th Apr 2026, 05:51am

Bournemouth are thought to want in excess of £50m for the 22-year-old, who’s reportedly viewed as a possible replacement for Enzo Fernandez.

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

Bengals’ Cole Kmet trade proposal would give Joe Burrow another great target originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Rumors have indicated that the Chicago Bears could look to move on from tight end Cole Kmet. With the rookie season that Colston Loveland had, especially his connection with young quarterback Caleb Williams, there might not be much of a reason to have Kmet on the roster. 

That's almost tough to say because of how well he's played through a lot of his career, but that's just the harsh reality of a business in the NFL.

Trading Kmet would likely require the Bears to get creative, as he's a good player, but not great. Still, there should be some interest, and in a recent trade idea, he has an opportunity to land with a decent team, playing with Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Chicago receives: 2026 sixth-round pick, 2027 second-round pick

Cincinnati receives: Kmet

“Kmet fits that billing and presents star quarterback Joe Burrow with another reliable target in the passing game. The Bears tight end could be viewed as an immediate upgrade over Gesicki on a similar contract. He’s a reliable target in the short and intermediate passing games and could help Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins find separation down the field,” Ethan Hutton of SI wrote.

As a team, Kmet would be in a better situation if he were on the Bears. However, offensively, the Bengals have a lot of threats, so he could fit in well with an offense that can put up points.

It'll be a different situation than what he's currently in, but he'd still be in a rather decent spot.

More NFL news:

• Raiders trade idea shuts down Cowboys biggest offseason issue and Dallas would get a first-round pick in return
• Bills and Raiders trade proposal would send one of Josh Allen’s weapons to Fernando Mendoza
• Browns giving Shedeur Sanders grace after first season didn’t go as planned
• Robert Griffin III reveals who he thinks should start for Browns between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson
• Browns’ Todd Monken told Shedeur Sanders exactly what he wants in his starting quarterback
• Browns trade proposal sends Myles Garrett out of Cleveland for return that would get people fired

NASHVILLE – It was nearly a calamitous thud to finish the regular season for the Anaheim Ducks, but like they’d done so many times before, the Ducks rallied for an emphatic exclamation point heading into their first postseason since 2018.

Anaheim had dropped a five-point lead in the Pacific Division with losses in eight of their previous nine games, and after trailing 4-3 into the third period, Tristan Luneau tied the game and Troy Terry put the Ducks ahead with three minutes to go in a 5-4 road win over the Nashville Predators on Thursday at Bridgestone Arena.

The Ducks will now open the Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Edmonton Oilers with Game 1 of the first round on Monday.

“It felt like it was just a representation of our team pushing,” Terry told the Victory+ broadcast on his game-winning goal. “We had a lot of really good looks. They’re goalie played really well. It just felt a big relief for myself and the team.”

Cutter Gauthier scored his 41st goal of the season for a 1-0 lead. Jackson LaCombe and Alex Killorn scored to put Anaheim back ahead, 3-2, but the Predators scored twice on the power play, including the go-ahead goal by Steven Stamkos in the second period before Anaheim’s comeback.

Ville Husso made 17 saves, including two in the final nine seconds. Ducks outshot Nashville, 40-21, as they matched a franchise record with 26 comeback victories and set a team record for total goals in a season.

“It was a great feeling. It was one of those games,” Killorn told the Victory+ broadcast. “We’re happy we won this game. We didn’t want to go to Colorado.”

Anaheim avoided the Presidents Trophy-winning Avalanche by winning to stay ahead of the wild-card Los Angeles Kings, who will head to Denver instead on Sunday.

Despite earning just six of a possible 20 points in the final 10 games of the season, the Ducks (43-33-6, 92 points) managed to stay in the top three of the Pacific Division, but Edmonton (41-30-11, 93 points) kept ahead of Anaheim and holds home ice in their first round series. This will be the third postseason meeting between the clubs with the Ducks winning a seven-game series in 2017 and the Oilers taking the 2006 Western Conference Final in five games.

The Ducks and back-to-back Western Conference champion Oilers combined for 28 goals in three games this season. Edmonton won two of three, with Anaheim erasing a two-goal deficit with a four-goal third period for a 6-5 win in the first game out of the Olympic break on Feb. 25. 

Even with the late-season slide, the Ducks return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in eight years.

“Just happy. It’s made it worth it,” Terry told the Victory+ broadcast. “There’s been times, I know the fans have felt it, pretty much since I’ve got here. They ebbs and flows… You can see it all coming together. It makes it worth it for me to be here through the whole thing. I’m excited for our fans. I’m excited for our team.”

Cutter Gauthier

With his 41st goal of the season, Gauthier moved into sole possession of 10th place for most goals in a single season in Ducks history. There are only three Anaheim players with more goals in a single season: Corey Perry, Teemu Selanne and Paul Kariya.

Gauthier finished the season as the Ducks’ points leader with 69 points, falling just one point short of Anaheim’s first 70-point scorer since 2016-17 (Ryan Getzlaf, 73 points).

The sophomore is on a six-game point streak, with three goals in three games following his return from an upper-body injury.

Special Teams

Anaheim floundered on special teams over the final stretch of the season.

The Ducks penalty kill allowed 10 goals in 25 opportunities in the final 10 games of the season–a 60% kill rate. Seattle’s league-worst penalty kill posted a 71.7% kill rate over 82 games.

Nashville took advantage on two of three power plays on Thursday. Filip Forsberg scored on a deflection in the middle of the slot to tie the game in the first period, and Steven Stamkos finished off a cross-crease one-timer to put the Predators ahead in the second period.

Anaheim did finish off the regular season on the power play on a high note. Terry drew a four-minute double-minor for a bloody high stick to the face–yet another for Terry in his career–and on the ensuing advantage, the 28-year-old popped in the eventual game-winner off a rebound in front.

The Ducks scored on seven of 38 power plays in the final 10 games–an 18% conversion rate. Anaheim finished the season with an 18.6% conversion rate, 23rd in the NHL.

Tristan Luneau

After spending all season with AHL San Diego, right-handed defenseman Tristan Luneau was called up to make his season debut in the season finale in Nashville. All year with the Gulls, Luneau was paired with left-hander Tyson Hinds, and the two were again together on the Ducks blue line.

Radko Gudas was out with a maintenance day for his recent lower-body injury, Olen Zellweger and Drew Helleson were healthy scratches and Ian Moore was still up at forward. This opened the opportunity for Luneau on Thursday.

Luneau played the lowest ice time among the six defensemen (11:37), with all his time on ice at five-on-five. However, the 22-year-old was instrumental in the comeback.

Luneau stopped up a Nashville play high in the zone, joined the ensuing rush and crashed the crease to finish off a play from Mikael Granlund to tie the game, 4-4, in the third period.

With Luneau on the ice, the Ducks earned 75.68% of shot attempts and 68.39% of expected goals.

This was Luneau’s 14th career NHL game over the last three seasons with his second career NHL goal.

Now the question remains, was this a one-game fill-in for Luneau and will the dynamic right-hander rejoin AHL San Diego for their Calder Cup Playoff run? Or did the 22-year-old earn a Stanley Cup Playoff roster spot with Anaheim?

Wrexham's fairytale rise since a takeover by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney has not been limited to on-pitch success as a wave of new fans from around the globe has fuelled an economic boom in north Wales.

Just over five years ago, the Red Dragons languished in the fifth tier of English football before Reynolds and McElhenney's arrival in a city of under 150,000 people had a transformative effect for both the club and local businesses.

Wrexham are now battling for promotion to the Premier League after an unprecedented three consecutive promotions and also gave Chelsea a scare before losing in the FA Cup earlier this season.

A documentary series titled 'Welcome to Wrexham' has charted that rise and resulted in an influx of North American visitors that has doubled tourism income to £200 million ($271 million) a year.

"We are pretty much double and I think that's conservative, it could be even three times the size," said Sam Regan, owner of the Lemon Tree hotel and restaurant and chair of tourist body 'This is Wrecsam'.

"Year round now about 20 percent of my accommodation is filled with American and Canadian guests, but when the home games are on, pretty much 80 percent is international visitors."

Sitting next to the club's Racecourse Ground, the beer garden of The Turf pub was teeming with accents from Virginia to Vancouver on a glorious spring evening before the visit of Southampton.

Yet, there is little sign of resentment from those who long suffered watching Wrexham before "the Rob and Ryan effect" took hold.

"Every business around here now feels the buzz of Wrexham," says James Townshend, a 30-year-old sales trainer and lifelong local fan of the club. 

"Wrexham wouldn't be where they are now (without them), so we have to embrace and appreciate what these fans are bringing to the area."

Becki Hendricks is on her seventh trip to the area from Virgina. 

Having initially mistaken 'Welcome to Wrexham' as a "spoof", she and her husband are even considering moving across the Atlantic to settle in Wales.

"We started with the documentary, yes. My life-long friends are here now," said the 51-year-old programme analyst. "Wrexham is a part of our hearts and part of our souls now."

- 'We are known worldwide' -

A fourth promotion in as many years may prove a bridge too far this season. 

Phil Parkinson's men sit seventh in the Championship, one place outside the play-off spots with four games to go.

But work is well underway to ensure the club continues to grow in the pursuit of Premier League riches.

A state-of-the-art new 7,500 capacity stand is set for completion next year, taking the Racecourse up to 18,000 and providing the facilities to allow the return of Wales international games to Wrexham.

"This has had an impact that goes beyond just football. It has had an impact on the entire community," CEO Michael Williamson told AFP. 

"It has helped create jobs and opportunities within the community, but it's also more importantly just inspired people and reestablished hope."

That civic pride is felt most by those that lived through 15 years mired in the fifth-tier National League.

Journalist Richard Williams has covered the club for two decades.

"Just the fact that you go around the town and it used to be little kids in Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal shirts. Now it's Wrexham, Wrexham, Wrexham everywhere," said Williams.

"So, the vibe, the feel-good factor around the town, it's just absolutely phenomenal."

Reynolds and McElhenney have also sparked a trend for Stateside stars to invest in the unglamourous lower reaches of English football.

Rapper Snoop Dogg is a minority owner of Swansea, while NFL legend Tom Brady's Birmingham got the better of Wrexham last weekend.

The marrying of sporting and economic success achieved by Reynolds and McElhenney has "set the bar" for celebrity overseas investors, according to local councillor Nigel Williams.

"Before people knew Wrexham for problems like anti-social behaviour," added Regan. 

"Now we are known worldwide and people are proud to be from here."

kca/smg/ea

CALGARY, Alberta (AP) — Arsenii Sergeev made 27 saves in his first NHL start, Zayne Parekh broke a third-period tie and the Calgary Flames beat the playoff-bound Los Angeles Kings 3-1 on Thursday night to end the season.

The Kings learned during the game that they’d be the second wild-card in the Western Conference and face NHL regular-season champion Colorado in the first round — with Game 1 on Sunday in Denver.

Los Angeles finished 35-27-20. Earlier Thursday, Edmonton took second place in the Pacific Division with a 6-1 home victory over Vancouver, and Anaheim won 5-4 at Nashville to finish third.

Morgan Frost and Joel Farabee also scored for Calgary. The Flames finished 34-39-9.

Kings star Anze Kopitar appeared in his final regular-season game, finishing with the seventh-most career points by a born and trained European player with 1,316. The leader of the category is Jaromir Jagr with 1,921.

Quinton Byfield scored for Los Angeles, and Anton Forsberg made 18 saves.

Frost opened the scoring at 5:21 of the second period on a power play with his 22nd of the season. Byfield tied it less than two minutes later with his 24th.

Farabee scored into an empty net to reach 20 goals.

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AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

The upcoming NBA playoff series between the Los Angeles Lakers and Houston Rockets is being billed as a clash between LeBron James and Kevin Durant, two of the league's greatest players over the last 10 to 15 years. But the Rockets are a talented team that people had high hopes for when this season started, and they have several other men who are threats.

They have center Alperen Sengun, who made the All-Star team for the second time this year. Forward Amen Thompson is blossoming into a near-star and is very athletic, and Houston's roster is stocked with other role players and complementary players who can hurt the Lakers.

That was the message LeBron James sent on Thursday when he talked to reporters, per Benjamin Royer of the Orange County Register.

“I think the last time we was in Houston I told you all how great he’s been since he picked up a basketball,” James said of Durant. “So that’s one part of it, obviously we know that’s the head of the snake. But it’s the Houston Rockets and they have some damn good players on their team. It’s not just a KD team. It’s the whole group. Like I said, KD is gonna do what KD does, he’s a Hall of Famer, we know that. So we have to prepare not only for him, but for the whole group.

“... They possess some really damn good players on the floor, and we have to be ready for all of that. From KD, to Sengun, to the Thompson twin, Jabari Smith, [Tari] Eason, [Reed] Sheppard. Everyone who goes on the floor is a threat and we have to be ready for that.”

While the Rockets were next-to-last in pace and 18th in scoring during the regular season, they were eighth in offensive rating. They had six players average double figures in scoring, and while they don't have anything close to a true point guard available to play (Fred VanVleet has been out all season with a torn ACL), they have lots of length and size up and down their roster.

In particular, Thompson is someone who could turn out to be a thorn in L.A.'s side. The 6-foot-7 wing has often been masquerading as a point guard, and he averaged 18.3 points, 7.8 rebounds and 5.3 assists a game during the regular season. Of course, Thompson is also regarded as a stellar defender, and he was named to the All-Defensive first team last year.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: LeBron James: Everyone on the Rockets 'is a threat'

Alan Pulido’s recent contract termination has shaken up the current situation at Chivas de Guadalajara, putting the spotlight on another key figure on thin ice: Érick Gutiérrez. According to journalist Jesús Bernal, the midfielder is not in Gabriel Milito’s plans, forcing him to make a drastic decision about his professional career for the rest of 2026.

Guti’s dilemma: Money or playing time

Gutiérrez faces two opposite scenarios. On one hand, he can see out the year and a half remaining on his contract, collecting his salary without playing. On the other, the most viable option from a sporting perspective is to seek a way out. “It’s not good for him to be inactive for that long,” reports close to the club say, especially after the player’s message on social media in which he admitted he misses football.

A possible return home

Pachuca appears to be the main club interested in bringing him in. Los Tuzos would be willing to open the doors for him to return to the club that developed him, as long as the player agrees to a considerable reduction in his financial demands. With only two options on the table, Gutiérrez’s future seems to be moving definitively away from Verde Valle.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Sion James reveals that Hornets fans should not be worried about Kon Knueppel originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Kon Knueppel had a tough time during the Play-In Tournament game between the Charlotte Hornets and the Miami Heat. While he has had a tremendous rookie season, the game against Miami was a rough result for him.

Coby White eventually took over as LaMelo Ball's backcourt partner in the game. He was superb, hitting the crucial three-pointer that forced overtime. Despite Knueppel's problems, it seems no one on the Hornets is worried about his form.

Sion James has no worries about Kon Knueppel's struggles

When anyone watches the Hornets, one might wonder if Knueppel is not a rookie. Against the Heat, it was clear that he was having trouble, which was not something that happened often during his rookie year.

Sion James is a longtime teammate, not only with the Hornets but also at Duke. He has seen Knueppel deal with problems for the past two years, and he has no trouble saying that the Rookie of the Year favorite will bounce back.

MORE: Breaking down the Rookie of the Year race between Kon Knueppel ande Cooper Flagg

Since he had a troubling performance against the Heat, it was evident that it was an outlier. For the most part, he has been excellent, as he averaged 42.5% from beyond the arc while being this season's most prolific shooter.

A bad game can happen once in a while, so James and his fellow Hornets teammates are supporting Knueppel because they know he will be back stronger than ever.

"I've got no worries about Kon. He's done what he's been doing, shooting the ball, and making winning plays. Just being a winner every single day. He does that in games when he's making shots or not," Sion James said to Nick Carboni about Kon's recent struggles.

"At this point, he's had a special season, he will continue to have a special season, and understand that this is part of it. He'll continue to grow."

Moving forward, Knueppel will do his best to keep playing at a high level. It will be challenging to do this against the Orlando Magic, but he will be prepared to contribute.

More NBA news:

• LaMelo Ball gets fined for his flagrant foul against Bam Adebayo
• LaVar Ball defends his son, LaMelo after his leg grab incident
• Draymond Green selects Kon Knueppel as his Rookie of the Year
• LaMelo Ball apologizes for grabbing Bam Adebayo's leg
• Udonis Haslem calls out the referees for not penalizing LaMelo Ball

If the San Francisco 49ers want to compete in the NFC West, they'll need to invest in their offense. And that's exactly what the Bleacher Report Scouting Department of Brandon Thorn, Dame Parson, Daniel Harms and Matt Holder did in their three-round mock draft.

The 49ers only have a pick in the first two rounds (currently), but didn't execute any trades in B/R's mock. Instead, San Francisco drafted Washington receiver Denzel Boston at No. 27 and Stanford tight end Sam Roush at No. 58.

Denzel Boston is a strong fit for Kyle Shanahan's offense. He wins on contested catches, back-shoulder fades and working across the middle of the field. He is a near-perfect pick to be Evans' understudy. The opportunity to provide quarterback Brock Purdy with ample weapons should be a priority for the Niners.

Boston was the sixth receiver off the board in this mock, which is a coup for the 49ers. They've been linked to receiver prospects in the draft all offseason and land on one who could be a Evans clone in a year or two.

As for the second round, Roush would be another long-term successor for George Kittle. The 6-foot-6 Stanford product caught 119 receptions for 1,201 yards and four touchdowns, and NFL.com's Lance Zierlein compared him to Dawson Knox.

Both Boston and Roush a safe picks but luxury picks that upgrade the 49ers offense and prepares them for the future as well.

This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers add two pass-catchers in new 3-round mock draft

The Atlanta Braves’ day off began with another bullpen shuffle, and this time, right-hander Ian Hamilton got the call. In addition to his selection, the club optioned lefty Hayden Harris to Triple-A Gwinnett and designated righty Osvaldo Bido for assignment. 

30-year-old Hamilton joined the Braves in December of last year and has yet to make his Atlanta debut. He’s thrown just 6.1 innings in Gwinnett this season, where he owns a 2.84 ERA. He’s given up just one base on balls and whiffed nine. 

Harris was called up earlier this week and did not get a shot at big league action. As for Bido, the move is a direct result of his lackluster outing against Miami.

More Braves News:

The Braves, who have yet to lose a series, are beginning a road trip full of NL East foes, and first, they take on the Philadelphia Phillies in a three-game set. 

Bryce Elder has been effective early this season and is shaping up to be a regular in the starting rotation.

Jim Jarvis is on a nine-game hitting streak down in Triple-A. More in the minor league recap. 

Luke Williams has rejoined the Braves on a minor-league deal, per the transaction log. He was designated for assignment earlier this week and elected free agency.

MLB News:

The Washington Nationals acquired left-hander Richard Lovelady from the New York Mets in exchange for cash. The Mets designated him for assignment over the weekend. 

From the Feed:

Brian Snitker will be inducted into the Braves Hall of Fame on April 25, and there’s a slate of special guests that will be in attendance.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Lynx re-signed five-time All-Star forward Napheesa Collier, who's coming off one of the most productive seasons in WNBA history.

The team announced Thursday night it was bringing back Collier, but didn't disclose terms of the deal.

ESPN reported, citing sources, that the Lynx signed Collier to a one-year, $1.4 million supermax contract. The deal came a day after the WNBA defending champion Las Vegas Aces re-signed four-time MVP A’ja Wilson. ESPN reported that contract was a three-year, $5 million supermax deal, the most lucrative in league history.

The 29-year-old Collier averaged a career-high 22.9 points per game last season while shooting 53.1% from the floor, 40.3% from 3-point range and 90.6% from the foul line, becoming the first player in WNBA history to post 50/40/90 shooting splits while averaging 20 or more points per game. She finished second to Wilson in league MVP voting the last two years.

“Phee has been such an integral part of the Lynx since she was drafted in 2019," head coach and president of basketball operations Cheryl Reeve said in a statement released by the team. “Coming off a historic 50/40/90 season and guiding the Lynx to the most wins in franchise history, Phee is hungry to position the Lynx for a championship run in 2026.”

Minnesota went 34–10 in the regular season and was the No. 1 overall seed in the WNBA playoffs. But Collier injured her left ankle in Game 3 of the WNBA semifinals against Phoenix, ending her season. The Lynx lost the series to the Mercury in five games.

Collier, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and four-time All-WNBA and All-Defensive Team selection, was the sixth overall draft pick by the Lynx in 2019 out of UConn and won the league's Rookie of the Year award. She has career averages of 18.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.7 steals and 1.2 blocks per game in seven seasons. Collier ranks second in franchise history in career steals (325) and scoring average (18.4), behind Maya Moore, and second in blocked shots (239) behind Sylvia Fowles.

Last season, Collier set the franchise record with 54 consecutive made free throws and was selected the WNBA All-Star Game MVP after setting the scoring mark with 36 points.

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AP WNBA: https://apnews.com/hub/wnba-basketball

The Colorado Rockies entered their series finale in Houston against the Astros needing a win in the worst way. Losers of six straight on the road, the Rockies could have ended their road trip with seven consecutive losses with a daunting match-up against the Los Angeles Dodgers quickly approaching.

The Rockies got the memo. Despite a shaky start from opener Juan Mejia, the Rockies pitching was largely excellent. They held the strong Astros offense to just two runs on their way to a victory that no doubt resonated in the clubhouse.

Cold Open

With the Rockies scuttling to get the most out of their pitching staff due to injuries and heavy bullpen use during this road trip, righty Juan Mejia was begged as the opener. Mejia threw just over half of his 30 pitches for strikes and recorded two strikeouts, but three singles and a hit by pitch helped the Astros jump head to an early lead. Mejia was pulled after recording just two outs.

Cut to the Chase

Chase Dollander turned in one of the best performances of his young career operating in bulk relief of Juan Mejia. Dollander consistently dialed up high velocity on his fastball—regularly hitting 100 MPH—and induced a 44% whiff rate on the pitch. He also made strong use of his slider and changeup (with 40% and 43% whiff rates, respectively) as he struck out a career high nine batters in 5.1 scoreless innings.

Dollander held the Astros hitless until his final inning of work. In the sixth inning a leadoff walk to Isaac Paredes and a double deflected off the glove of third baseman Kyle Karros had runners on second and third with no outs. Dollander proceeded to bear down with a gutsy finish. After getting noted Rockies killer Christian Walker to ground out without advancing the runners, Dollander struck out the next two batters to end the inning with no damage done.

See what happens when you don’t strike out 15 times?

Tonight was one of the Rockies’ most disciplined games at the plate so far this season. The Rockies struck out just five times against the combined Astros bullpen—including the opener Ryan Weiss—while chasing significantly less than previous games over this road trip. They also drew six walks.

Unfortunately, that didn’t necessarily equate to runs. The Rockies scored just three runs on nine hits, going 2-for-9 with runners in scoring position and leaving nine men stranded.

Tyler Freeman, Hunter Goodman, and Brenton Doyle were the Rockies’ heroes at the plate. Freeman went 3-for-5 with an RBI without striking out—though he did ground into a momentum-killing double-play—while Hunter Goodman both went 2-for-3 with a walk. Doyle put his speed to good use with two stolen bases while Goodman hit his fifth home run of the season.

Bend, but don’t break.

Dollander gave way to Jaden Hill, Jimmy Herget, and Victor Vodnik. All three relievers faced traffic but kept the Astros off the board. Hill walked two and gave up a hit, but managed to navigate the inning unscathed while Herget also gave up a walk. Vodnik also issued a walk, and a towering fly ball off the bat of Isaac Paredes gave Rockies fans flashbacks as it looked like they were about to be walked off yet again. However, the ball fell into Mickey Moniak’s glove at the wall and Vodnik earned his second save of the season.

Coming Up Next

The Rockies are heading back to what might be a chilly and snow-touched Coors Field tomorrow to start a four-game series against the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers. Tomoyuki Sugano 菅野 智之 will make the start for the Rockies, looking to continue building on his excellent start.Tyler Glasnow will go for the Dodgers. First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 PM MDT.

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EDMONTON, Alberta (AP) — Connor McDavid had four assists to take the NHL scoring title with 138 points and the Edmonton Oilers beat the Vancouver Canucks 6-1 on Thursday night to finish second in the Pacific Division and open the playoffs at home.

Edmonton will host Anaheim on Monday night in Game 1. The Oilers were 7-2-2 in their last 11 to finish 41-30-12, while Vancouver was last in the NHL at 25-49-8.

McDavid won his sixth Art Ross title as the NHL scoring leader to tie Mario Lemieux and Gordie Howe for second — four behind Wayne Gretzky. McDavid reached 1,220 career points, passing Jeremy Roenick, Larry Murphy and Jean Beliveau to advance to 47th on the NHL list. McDavid entered the season 71st.

Rookie Matthew Savoie had his first hat trick, Josh Samanski, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Colton Dach also scored and Evan Bouchard had three assists. Connor Ingram made 11 saves, allowing only Ty Mueller's first career goal.

Edmonton was buoyed by the return of forward Zach Hyman and is expecting star forward Leon Draisaitl back during the opening series.

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AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

It’s been a busy — and fruitful — Thursday for Utah women’s basketball on the transfer portal recruiting trail.

Late Thursday night, former UC Santa Barbara forward Olivia Bradley became the third Utes commitment of the day, joining Cal Baptist’s Filipa Barros and Oklahoma State’s Lena Girardi.

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Who is Olivia Bradley?

Bradley is a 6-foot-1 forward who hails from Adelaide, South Australia. She has played the past three seasons at UC Santa Barbara, but will have two years of eligibility remaining after utilizing a medical redshirt during the 2023-24 season.

Bradley earned All-Big West freshman team honors two years ago, when she averaged 5.9 points and 4.1 rebounds coming off the bench as a redshirt freshman.

She’s coming off a career-best season while earning Big West honorable mention honors during the 2025-26 campaign, when she averaged 13.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.3 blocks and 0.7 steals per game.

Bradley shot 48% from the floor, 28.2% from 3 and 67% from the free-throw line.

How does Olivia Bradley fit into Utah’s 2026-27 plans?

After the Utes saw forward Reese Ross enter the transfer portal ahead of her senior season and transfer to Baylor, Utah was in need of some help in the front court.

Bradley helps fill that role, and with two years of eligibility remaining, she doesn’t have to do so as a one-year fill-in.

Bradley can pair nicely with another Australian talent, Chyra Evans, who is returning for Utah and is coming off a year wherein she averaged 8.2 points and 5.1 rebounds per game.

Utah is also bringing in a pair of freshmen front court players in center Rylee Little, a four-year standout and state champion at Kanab High, and forward Emma Petrie, another Australia native.

At forward, the Utes also bring back Evelina Otto, who had her opportunities to contribute as a freshman, and Kamryn Mafua, who missed much of the year due to injury after transferring from Cal.

Ospreys full-back Jack Walsh could leave the region at the end of the season with interest growing from clubs outside Wales, including French side Montauban.

Walsh, who can also operate at fly-half, has been one of Ospreys' most consistent performers over the past two seasons, form which has attracted interest from a number of clubs.

Ospreys head coach Mark Jones confirmed the region is in talks with Walsh but acknowledged the 26-year-old is weighing up his future.

"At the moment he's assessing his options — staying versus going — and we're waiting for clarity on that," said Jones.

"We've been clear with our stance and the contract we've put in front of him shows how much we value him.

"But he's got to make a decision himself and I fully appreciate that he has to explore that in his own time, we'll see what happens over the next days and weeks."

French club Montauban, who will be relegated from the Top 14 this season, are understood to be leading the race should Walsh decide to move on, with the club already making early recruitment moves as they plan for an immediate return to the top flight.

Born in America and raised in Australia, Walsh joined Ospreys in 2022 and has become an important part of the squad, featuring regularly at both full-back and fly-half.

Had Walsh remained in Wales, he would have become eligible for Steve Tandy's national side on residency before the 2027 World Cup, but a move abroad would end those qualification hopes.

• Uncertainty remains for Scarlets and Ospreys

Ospreys playing down Chamberlain links

Ospreys have confirmed Wales wing Tom Rogers will join from Scarlets next season, providing an option at full-back should Walsh depart, along with existing squad member Iestyn Hopkins.

They will also require fly-half cover and have been linked with Newcastle Red Bulls' Boeta Chamberlain as a possible replacement.

Jones said the region are exploring a number of options given the uncertainty around Walsh's future, but moved to play down speculation surrounding South African Chamberlain.

"He's not anybody we're looking at any more deeply than anybody else," said Jones.

"We're looking at lots of 10s because we don't know where the Jack Walsh situation is going to land.

"I'm not sure where the Chamberlain one has come from in terms of the headlines, but he's one of a number of players agents have sent across our desk."

Jones added financial considerations will also shape recruitment decisions: "We're doing our due diligence on all of them and seeing what's the best fit for us and what we can afford."

Ospreys boosted by Hardy re‑signing despite interest from elsewhere

While uncertainty remains over Walsh's future, Ospreys received a boost on Wednesday with scrum-half Kieran Hardy signing a new contract with the region.

The Wales international has impressed since arriving from Scarlets and establishing himself as a key figure in the squad.

Jones said securing Hardy's long-term future was a significant moment for the club.

"He's made a big impact since he's come into the team. I think he's scored 13 or 14 tries for us in a short space of time," said Jones.

"We knew we were signing a very good player when we got him through the door and that's proved to be the case.

"He's added his own style to the team when he's played, he's pushed the other nines as well and he's added to the mix that we've got."

Hardy had attracted interest from a number of clubs, but Jones believes his decision to stay reflects the direction in which the team is heading.

"To keep a player of his quality, who was wanted by a lot of other teams… he's an international at the end of the day… it speaks volumes about the team, his team-mates and the environment we're trying to create here," said Jones.

"Hopefully that's a good indication of the Ospreys and why he wants to stay."

A Los Angeles Dodgers fan was awarded $11.8 million by a federal jury over a lawsuit alleging the Los Angeles Police Department partially blinded him during a World Series celebration in 2020, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Isaac Castellanos was 22 years old and a student at Cal State Long Beach when he drove to downtown L.A. with a group of friends on Oct. 27, 2020, the night the Dodgers clinched their first World Series in 32 years in six games against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Castellanos said he and his friends were peacefully celebrating around 1 a.m. the next morning when LAPD officers confronted the crowd. Per the Times, LAPD officials have claimed the officers were responding to violent groups that were vandalizing and breaking into downtown businesses.

The end result was Castellanos getting hit in the right eye by a less-lethal projectile, permanently losing vision in that eye. He was reportedly struck by a 37-mm “skip trace” launcher, which fires hard foam projectiles intended to bounce off the ground and strike targets in the lower body.

Per the Times, LAPD policy says those weapons are supposed to be fired at close range. Castellanos’ legal team reportedly showed evidence they were fired at a distance of approximately 145 feet, allowing the projectile to rise to eye level.

Castellanos sued, alleging excessive force and a violation of his due process rights. Adding to the potential damages was Castellanos’ career as an esports player. He reportedly won $20,000 at a gaming competition months before the incident.

The trial, which occurred nearly six years after the incident, reportedly consisted of six days of testimony and evidence, then less than two hours of deliberation by the jury.

The eight-figure sum requires approval from city leaders and could be changed during the appeal process. Castellanos’ attorneys have reportedly pushed to triple the jury award under a state law allowing for increased damages in such cases.

The Carolina Hurricanes are potentially approaching a crossroads entering the 2026 playoffs. On one end, they have been undoubtedly one of the most dominant teams in the NHL over the better part of the last 10 years. On the other end, though, they don’t have much to show for it. 

Since 2018, Carolina is fourth in regular season wins with 414 and sixth in playoff wins with 47 according to StatMuse.

Four of the top five teams in regular season wins have made a Stanley Cup within that time frame, with three of the four having gone on to win it. The Canes are the only ones who haven’t made an appearance. Of the top eight teams in playoff wins since 2018, the Canes are also the only team to not make a Stanley Cup.

This should be the year that changes, but if not, the Canes might not get a better chance.

One big reason for that is their potential path to the Stanley Cup, as this is may be the easiest route they have had.

The Florida Panthers and New York Rangers, who have knocked Carolina out of the playoffs each of the last four seasons, both aren’t in. While the Buffalo Sabres have shot on to the scene, they have no playoff experience. And the Tampa Bay Lightning should be past their glory days. 

Not only that, the Canes will avoid facing either the Sabres or Lightning until the Eastern Conference Finals at the earliest.

It’s been eight straight years of playoff hockey and multiple years of being a true Stanley Cup contender for the Canes, with no success past the second round.

They have done everything to make this core work. Sebastian Aho, Andrei Svechnikov and Jaccob Slavin have all been difference makers over the past eight seasons. They traded for Jake Guentzel at the 2024 deadline. They traded for Mikko Rantanen in 2025. They signed the biggest UFA deal of the offseason to add Nikolaj Ehlers and traded for K’Andre Miller before the season.

This needs to be the year it all comes together, with the Canes possibly having the strongest roster they’ve had over the past eight seasons combined with the easiest path to the Stanley Cup.

If it doesn’t work this year in the playoffs, meaning the Canes don’t at least go six or seven games in the Eastern Conference Finals, something will have to change towards the top.

Whether it’s shaking up the coaching staff or trying to land a true superstar talent or acquiring a franchise goaltender, it’s almost inconceivable to keep running it back with the same core expecting different results. 

All it takes is one run to win a Cup, and this Canes team has proven they have the talent to do so. It’s just about putting it all together when the lights shine brightest — something they haven’t shown the ability to do yet. 

Right now, Carolina should be the favorite to represent the East in the Stanley Cup. But if they don’t, and fall short unconvincingly again, big changes might have to be made. 

NUFC might want a lot more for Gordon than Bayern is willing to pay (The Telegraph’s Luke Edwards via @iMiaSanMia)

This kind of story was bound to come out — Newcastle United might want more than the alleged 60 million to 70 million that Bayern Munich was supposedly willing to pay for winger Anthony Gordon:

Anthony Gordon is open to leaving Newcastle this summer and is keen to get his future sorted before the World Cup. Bayern have been widely credited with an interest in him this week, but Newcastle have scoffed at suggestions they would entertain bids of between £55-60m. That was the valuation circulated in German media reports, although the asking price for the England international is likely to exceed £80m [@LukeEdwardsTele @TeleFootball]

The last time we heard that Bayern Munich was deadly serious about procuring English talent, the Bavarians took strong runs at both Harry Kane and Declan Rice. While it is debatable on whether or not Rice every really considered Bayern Munich (it was reported that his choice came down to Arsenal and the Bavarians), Kane did make the jump.

If Bayern Munich truly wants Gordon, they will go strong after him. From there, it will just depend on whether or not he wants the move and if Newcastle United will accept Bayern Munich’s bid.

Shocker! Bayern not interested in Foden (Sport Bild’s Christian Falk)

Speaking of Bayern Munich’s rumored interest in English lads (shout out BFW Throwback #EnglishTomAdams), the stories linking the Bavarians to Manchester City’s Phil Foden are not true per Sport Bild’s Christian Falk:

❌ It is NOT TRUE: Bayern Munich are looking at Phil Foden ahead of the summer. He’s a very interesting name, of course! But, Bayern Munich aren’t looking for a player like him; a player who’s expensive and who’d want to play every game. Bayern are searching for a backup for the left wing position behind Luis Diaz. But, you know, they have Diaz, Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, Jamal Musiala, and a young Lennart Karl who needs playing time to protect his development. Respectfully, where would Phil Foden play in this team? I think it wouldn’t be a good deal for both sides.

Admittedly, the story always seemed a little wide of the mark — unless Foden has become so disillusioned with City and the Premier League. Even after this up-and-down season, that still seems unlikely.

Kimmich, Gnabry take the day to watch Zverev (@iMiaSanMia)

On their day off, Bayern Munich stars Joshua Kimmich and Serge Gnabry went over to the BMW Munich Open to support Alexander Zverev just a day after the tennis star came to the Allianz Arena to watch the Bavarians:

Moreover, Zverev took the court in a Michael Olise jersey:

Alexander Zverev took to the court in a Michael Olise Bayern shirt at the Munich Open 🎾

Zverev was at Allianz Arena last night and visited the team in the dressing room after the game to congratulate them

Joshua Kimmich and Serge Gnabry watched his game today and sat in his box

📸@BILD

United have Diomande on radar (ESPN)

Manchester United reportedly has an eye on RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande:

Manchester United have shortlisted attackers Yan Diomande and Iliman Ndiaye ahead of the summer transfer window opening, Sky Sports reports. Diomande, 19, has shone in the Bundesliga this season with RB Leipzig, scoring 10 goals in 27 league matches. He is under contract until 2030, having arrived in Germany last summer from Spanish club Leganés. Senegal international Ndiaye has six goals and three assists in the Premier League for Everton so far this season. United have also been linked with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers in recent days, as they look to bolster their left-wing options next season.

Olise, Kimmich, Upamecano named to UCL Team of the Week (UEFA Champions League)

Bayern Munich stars Michael Olise, Joshua Kimmich, and Dayot Upamecano were all named to UEFA’s official Champions League Team of the Week:

Kompany’s dad hits parliament with Bayern scarf (@iMiaSanMia)

Everyone is Bayern’d up:

If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…

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Welcome to Midnight Mania!

Let’s start the night off by taking a look back over the three biggest stories of Thursday, April 16, 2026.

1. ‘Call me!’ Vengeful Ronda Rousey trying to lure Paddy Pimblett to Netflix MMA as UFC war intensifies: I hope MVP is interested in MMA beyond this one event; I like the shakeup.
2. UFC legend among top execs fired from ONE Championship as roster purge continues: On the flip side, I don’t think anyone over at Endeavor is worried about One developing into a threat … or lasting another two years.
3. Kayla Harrison reacts to Ronda Rousey’s tirade: ‘Fight me den!’: I like the straight-to-the-point nature of this response, but I don’t feel it’s an adequate comeback for all of Rousey’s various shots fired.

Insomnia

The quick recap of this story is that Arman Tsarukyan bet $40k that Ryan Garcia couldn’t drop his buddy with a body shot, won that bet, and now claims Garcia is refusing to pay him. Garcia, conversely, argues that Tsarukyan lied about his buddy’s combat experience and claims he’s the one getting scammed. Now, they’re trying to box/fight each other.

Is any of it real? In the modern live stream era … who knows.

I spent a majority of this clip wondering who was throwing whom.

Cody Durden wants another short-notice shot at Allan Nascimento, who unfortunately will most likely NOT be fighting at UFC Winnipeg.

Joel Alvarez and Benoit Saint Denis were supposed to fight last year, but now they’re training partners in France.

Maybe Jack Della Maddalena couldn’t escape from Islam Makhachev’s grasp, but Craig Jones still knows his stuff.

Paulo Costa does not look small standing next to the current Light Heavyweight champion of the world.

Congratulations to Jiri Prochazka and his longtime partner.

Slips, rips, and KO clips

Lead leg body kick, reload, left hook is a great combination, and it surely helps that the liver kick landed with such an audible thud.

That’s a rough way to lose an undefeated record.

Thanks to Russian combat sports, we now know that rappers are better at fighting than football players.

Random Land

Get involved with Mania community in The Feed!

Midnight Music:

Sleep well Maniacs! More martial arts madness is always on the way.

The Minnesota Twins don't have one of MLB's most stacked lineups on paper, but that's why the players are paid to play the games. The squad is outperforming expectations through the first three weeks of the season, and it's largely because of its power-hitting.

The Twins are third in baseball with 26 homers and sixth with a .399 slugging percentage with 19 games played thus far. They're 11-8 despite center fielder Byron Buxton being their only established above-average position player, as they're getting production from several more unheralded players. 

For example, third baseman Brooks Lee and right fielder Matt Wallner are each tied with Buxton and first baseman Josh Bell for the team lead with three homers apiece. Buxton and Bell have been in the big leagues for 10-plus years, but Wallner and Lee debuted in 2022 and 2024, respectively. Plus, each of them only has one season with 100-plus games played.

Wallner must be more consistent, as he's slashing just .191/.276/.353, but Lee is slashing .241/.281/.426. The latter player is trying to establish himself as a long-term infielder for Minnesota, and he'll make a compelling case if he keeps his OPS above .700.

Meanwhile, center fielder Ryan Kriedler already has two homers despite playing just three games thus far. The 28-year-old went yard against the Boston Red Sox on both Monday and Wednesday, and he's trying to establish himself as a big-leaguer after playing just 89 games for the Detroit Tigers from 2022 to 2025.

The Twins rank 19th collectively with a .232 batting average, but every player that's taken an at-bat for them has homered except center fielder James Outman.

Twins Must Prove Power-Hitting Production Is Sustainable

While Minnesota's lineup has done its job so far, there's plenty of time over the next few months to lose that momentum. The team's hot streak can't be taken too seriously until it happens over a larger sample size.

If the Twins do keep hitting the ball out of the yard, that probably means that their unproven players are having breakout seasons. That's the dream scenario for an organization that hasn't made the playoffs since 2023 and is desperate for a young cornerstone piece on offense.

Up next for Minnesota is a home series against the Cincinnati Reds starting on Friday before it hits the road to face the New York Mets and Tampa Bay Rays. Friday's game starts at 8:10 p.m. ET, and ace right-hander Joe Ryan will start on the mound for the Twins against left-hander Brandon Williamson.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Troy Terry scored on a power play with 2:54 left, and the Anaheim Ducks beat the Nashville Predators 5-4 on Thursday night helping them clinch the third seed in the Pacific Division for the postseason.

The Ducks came into the regular-season finale third in the Pacific with five different scenarios still possible to lock down the final playoff matchups This win, combined with Edmonton beating visiting Vancouver, means Anaheim starts the first round Monday at Edmonton.

Anaheim also took the season series against Nashville 2-1, though the Ducks go into the postseason 2-6-2 over their final 10.

Cutter Gauthier, Jackson LaCombe, Alex Killorn and Tristan Luneau scored for Anaheim. Mikael Granlund had three assists.

Steven Stamkos scored twice and had an assist for Nashville, giving him 42 goals this season. Filip Forsberg scored two goals, giving him 40, and the Predators a pair of 40-goal scorers. Luke Evangelista and Ryan Ufko added two assists apiece.

BLUES 5, MAMMOTH 3

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Logan Mailloux scored the go-ahead goal with 2:57 left to play and Robert Thomas had a hat trick as St. Louis beat Utah in the regular-season finale for both teams.

Mailloux scored unassisted on a backhand shot from 20 feet out to make it 4-3 in a back-and-forth game. Thomas’ third goal, an empty-netter with 38 seconds left, capped the scoring.

Pavel Buchnevich had the other goal for St. Louis and Joel Hofer made 20 saves.

Michael Carcone, Lawson Crouse, and Kailer Yamamoto scored for the Mammoth. Karel Vejmelka and Vitek Vanecek combined for 24 stops.

Clayton Keller assisted on two Utah goals to become the third NHL player this season with at least one assist in 10 straight games.

SHARKS 6, JETS 1

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (AP) — Macklin Celebrini had a goal and two assists to break Joe Thornton’s San Jose record for points in a season with 115, helping the Sharks rout Winnipeg in the finale for both teams.

The 19-year-old Celebrini had 45 goals and 70 assists in 82 games in his second NHL season. Thornton had 114 points in 2006-07, also playing 82 games. Last season, Celebrini had 63 points in 70 games, with 25 goals and 38 assists.

San Jose missed the playoff for the seventh consecutive season, finishing 39-35-8.

The Jets were 35-35-12 to miss the playoffs for the first time since 2021-22. They are the fifth NHL team to win the Presidents’ Trophy for the best regular-season record and not qualify for the playoffs the following season.

William Eklund also had a goal and two assists for San Jose. Will Smith had a goal and an assist, Collin Graf, Igor Chernyshov and Michael Misa also scored, and John Klingberg added three assists. Alex Nedeljkovic stopped 25 shots.

NHL standings 2026: Updated Stanley Cup playoff bracket, clinching scenarios through April 15 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The end of the 2025-2026 NHL regular season is approaching, but worry not, fans, playoff hockey rises above all other sports, so some of the most exciting action of the entire year is almost upon us. 

Sixteen teams, eight from each conference, will make the playoff field. The final games of the regular season are scheduled for Thursday, April 16, with the first-round playoff matchups set to begin the following weekend. The Stanley Cup Finals will be held in June, giving us almost two months of playoff hockey. 

The Florida Panthers won the 2025 Stanley Cup, the franchise's second consecutive trophy. Ironically, they played the Edmonton Oilers both years. The Panthers are out of the playoff picture, meaning a new champion will be crowned in 2026. 

Here's everything you need to know about the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs. 

SN's NHL HQ: Live NHL scores | Updated NHL standings | Full NHL schedule

NHL playoff bracket 2026

YOUR 2026 #STANLEYCUP PLAYOFFS BRACKET IS HERE 🔒

📺: The #StanleyCup Playoffs begin SATURDAY on @espn, @NHL_On_TNT, @Sportsnet, & @TVASportspic.twitter.com/N4wSW1bhSl

— NHL (@NHL) April 17, 2026

Eastern Conference

(A1) Buffalo Sabres vs. (WC1) Boston Bruins

(A2) Tampa Bay Lightning vs. (A3) Montreal Canadiens

(M1) Carolina Hurricanes vs. (WC2) Ottawa Senators

(M2) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (M3) Philadelphia Flyers

Western Conference

(C1) Colorado Avalanche vs. (WC2) Los Angeles Kings

(C2) Dallas Stars vs. (C3) Minnesota Wild

(P1) Vegas Golden Knights vs. (WC1) Utah Mammoth

(P2) Edmonton Oilers vs. (P3) Anaheim Ducks

NHL standings 2026

The tables below will be updated daily with the latest NHL standings until the playoffs begin (current through April 16).

Eastern Conference

Atlantic Division

Metropolitan Division

Wild Card

X = clinched playoff
Y = clinched division title 
E = eliminated

Western Conference

Central Division

Pacific Division

Wild Card

X = clinched playoff
Y = clinched division title 
E = eliminated

NHL clinching scenarios today

All playoff spots have already been clinched. 

When do the NHL playoffs start?

• Start date: Saturday, April 18

The first round of the NHL playoffs is expected to start on Saturday, April 18, two days after the culmination of the regular season. 

MORE: Golden Knights making shocking move to fire Bruce Cassidy, hire John Tortorella

How will the 2026 NHL playoffs work?

Sixteen teams qualify for the NHL playoffs, eight from each conference. The top three teams in each division will get the top six seeds in their respective conference's playoff bracket. The remaining two spots in each conference will be filled with the next two highest-placed finishers, regardless of division. So, theoretically, one division could send five teams to the playoffs while the other sends only three. 

In the first round, the division winner with the best record in each conference will face the worst wild-card team. Then, the teams that finished second and third in their division will face off. The winners from those games will play each other in the second round.

Those winners will duke it out in the conference finals, sending one representative to the Stanley Cup Finals from each conference. Each round of the playoffs is best-of-seven, so the first team to win four games will advance. 

Japanese sensation Shimon Yoshinari has emerged as one of the most technically refined young strikers in ONE Championship.

The WBC Muay Thai World Champion will return to action at ONE SAMURAI 1 on April 29, where he faces American-Malaysian star Johan “Jojo” Ghazali in a flyweight Muay Thai firefight inside Ariake Arena in Tokyo.

While Ghazali’s aggressive, highlight-driven style has made him one of the division’s most exciting young guns, Shimon presents a very different kind of challenge. His approach is built on precision, timing, and control, which has helped him remain unbeaten across five promotional appearances.

Before the action shifts to the Japanese capital, here are three of Shimon’s weapons that could play a decisive role in this clash.

#1 Shimon’s Counter Left Hook

Shimon’s left hook is his most dangerous and reliable weapon, and he showcased it immediately in his first appearance on the global stage.

Making his promotional debut against Thai finisher Rittidet Sor Sommai at ONE Friday Fights 92 in December 2024, he scored a knockdown with a perfectly timed counter left hook. Rather than relying on volume, the 21-year-old waits for openings and fires compact, accurate counters with minimal telegraph.

Though Rittidet managed to regain his footing, the damage was already done, and Shimon closed the show moments later.

That same left hook remained a key weapon in his bout against Pettonglor Sitluangpeenumfon at ONE Friday Fights 121. While not always thrown as a counter, it consistently punctuated his combinations and played a crucial role in breaking down his opponent en route to the finish.

The effectiveness of this weapon lies in both its timing and versatility. Against a pressure-heavy fighter like Ghazali, who thrives on closing distance and has recorded a 75 percent finish rate across his ONE victories, that creates constant openings for Shimon to intercept with clean, fight-altering shots.

#2 Shimon’s Damaging Calf Kicks

Another consistent element of Shimon’s game is his ability to attack the lead leg, particularly with calf kicks – a weapon that has become increasingly prominent among Japanese strikers.

Training out of Eiwa Sports Gym alongside his cousin, reigning ONE Atomweight Muay Thai World Champion Nadaka, Shimon has developed a sharp and methodical kicking game that reflects that growing trend.

In his latest victory over Dedduanglek Torfunfarm at ONE Friday Fights 137, he used low kicks early to disrupt rhythm and limit forward movement. That approach paid off, as the Thai veteran struggled to find his usual tempo, allowing Shimon to control the fight and secure the win.

The same strategy was evident in his bout against “Samingpri” Tagir Khalilov. Repeated attacks to the lead leg forced the Russian striker to adjust his stance and reduced his ability to apply pressure.

Although the fight was later ruled a no contest due to an accidental eye poke in the second round, Shimon had already demonstrated his ability to dictate the pace and neutralize the Russian’s explosiveness.

Rather than relying on single heavy shots, he builds damage over time. His kicks are precise, consistent, and effective at slowing opponents down.

#3 Elite Distance Management

At 5-foot-10, Shimon holds a clear height and reach advantage in this matchup, but what makes it truly effective is how well he uses it.

In his victory over Yodlekpet “The Destroyer” Or Atchariya at ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang, he consistently controlled range, staying just outside striking distance while landing clean shots with minimal return fire.

His footwork is measured rather than flashy. Small positional adjustments allow him to maintain distance and force opponents to reset before launching meaningful offense.

That control becomes especially valuable against aggressive fighters. Yodlekpet, known for his heavy hands, struggled to land cleanly as Shimon dictated where and when exchanges took place.

Ghazali’s success often comes from closing distance quickly and overwhelming opponents. Shimon’s ability to manage range could be a key factor in slowing that approach and keeping the fight in a space that favors his technical strengths.

Source

A surprisingly shaky semifinal evening for UCLA gymnastics has the Bruins leaving Fort Worth early after finishing in third place in the NCAA national semifinals.

An early fall from Jordan Chiles followed by some wobbly vaults in the final rotations were too much to overcome as No. 13 seed Minnesota stunned in their final rotation on bars and national favorite Oklahoma was steady throughout. The top two teams advanced to the championship on Saturday.

The No. 4 seed Bruins scored a 197.2750, 0.1875 behind Oklahoma and Minnesota and just ahead of No. 9 seed Arkansas, which was also eliminated. UCLA was the only top-four seed that didn’t advance.

Chiles took the individual floor title with a 9.9750 score, her second NCAA floor championship.

UCLA (18-3) trailed the second spot by 0.1250 after one rotation after Chiles’ miscue cost the Bruins on bars and they had to count Nola Matthews’ 9.7625, the lowest score to count for any team in the first rotation.

Read more:UCLA gymnastics focused on delivering Bruins' next national title

Chiles wrapped up the Bruins’ first rotation with a handstand fall off the tall uneven bar to begin and had to restart her routine, costing her a half-point reduction. She won the bars championships in 2023 and 2025.

It was her first fall in any event since she fell on bars in February 2025.

The 9.3625 was dropped from UCLA’s bars score and took Chiles out of the all-around chase early in the night.

Oklahoma led the first rotation with a stellar run on vault, with no scores counted lower than 9.9375.

The Bruins didn’t bounce back quickly on beam in the second rotation. After a strong performance from freshman Tiana Sumanasekera, she didn’t stick the dismount and finished with 9.8250, the lowest score.

Chiles, though, did rebound with a clean beam and dismount for a 9.9500 score to get the Bruins back in it. Senior Ciena Alipio concluded the rotation at 9.9375, but UCLA remained 0.0750 away from advancing with a near-flawless Minnesota floor set.

Luckily for the Bruins, the next in the rotation was their best event: floor.

Sophomore Mika Webster-Longin landed a 9.8875 to put the Bruins just a hair out of second and Sumanasekera put them narrowly ahead of Minnesota near the end of the rotation.

Ashlee Sullivan’s 9.9375 routine put the Bruins in first place for the first time all day and Chiles closed it out with a 9.9750, the highest floor score of the day and had the Bruins hanging on by 0.2250.

“Everything we talk about right now is it’s not over till it’s over,” Alipio told ESPN after the floor rotation. “We’re embracing that today.”

Katelyn Rosen did not land her vault and got a 9.2125 that the Bruins had to overcome in the final rotation. Webster-Longin also wobbled on her dismount and her 9.5875 had to count.

Riley Jenkins and Sullivan recovered, and Chiles landed a 9.8875, but it was far too late. That ended Chiles’ career at UCLA and the Bruins are still without a national title since 2018.

LSU and Florida advanced earlier in the day and will face off with Oklahoma and Minnesota in the Final Four.

Sign up for UCLA Unlocked for big game takeaways, recruiting buzz and more UCLA sports insights.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

The Texas Tech Red Raiders had a defense to remember in 2025. That side of the ball carried the Red Raiders into the College Football Playoff before an ineffective offense ended any chance at the national championship. While everyone knows about All-Americans David Bailey, Jacob Rodriguez and Lee Hunter, Texas Tech featured other great players, too.

One of those players was defensive tackle Skyler Gill-Howard. Gill-Howard was a 6-foot-1, 280-pound defensive tackle prospect who began his college career at Upper Iowa before transferring to Eastern Illinois and finishing up at Texas Tech. In his only season for the Red Raiders, Gill-Howard started the first six games at defensive tackle, recording 13 tackles, including 2.5 for loss, 0.5 sacks and an interception that he returned for a touchdown.

Gill-Howard hasn't received the same attention from NFL scouts as his more famous teammates, but teams do like him. Tanner Phifer of XPAND Sports recently revealed that the Washington Commanders hosted Gill-Howard on a top-30 visit. This visit hasn't been confirmed by Washington, which held a group top-30 event earlier this week at Topgolf in Ashburn, which featured several top prospects, such as Sonny Styles, Caleb Downs and others.

Washington's interest in Gill-Howard is interesting, considering his size and Relative Athletic Score. GM Adam Peters often targets players with a high RAS score, but Gill-Howard has a 5.61 score. That number is so low due to his size.

Skyler Gill-Howard is a DT prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored a 5.61 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 997 out of 2270 DT from 1987 to 2026.https://t.co/91eIhVFvOupic.twitter.com/Dq3DoYtDCf

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) April 5, 2026

Why would Washington be looking to draft an undersized defensive tackle if it plans on employing more 3-4 fronts? That's a fair question. But, remember, the Commanders also hosted undersized Navy star defensive tackle Landon Robinson in a private workout — not a top-30 visit.

This is an interesting visit for Washington, especially considering Gill-Howard is more of a Day 3 prospect and the position currently has solid depth.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders hosted Texas Tech defender on pre-draft visit

She is Helen Ward's "favourite footballer in the world" and would be the first player selected in Angharad James' all-time Wales team.

Kath Morgan, meanwhile, describes her as the "little Welsh girl from Barry" who grew up to be world class.

Sophie Ingle is poised to win Wales cap number 150 when Rhian Wilkinson's team take on Albania in a Women's World Cup qualifier in Elbasan on Saturday.

As Ingle reaches another landmark in her storied career, those who have worked and played alongside her are unanimous in their praise for her contribution to the Welsh cause.

"I remember her when she first went up to London [to join Chelsea], committing herself to playing with world-class players," says former Wales captain Morgan.

"But [former Chelsea boss] Emma Hayes will tell you, by the end of her time there, Sophie was that world-class player.

"She's Welsh, she's come from us and she's ours. We couldn't be more proud."

'My favourite footballer in the world'

Ingle has come a long way since beginning her junior career with Vale Wanderers, a boys' team in Barry.

She was forced to give up the sport when aged 12 because Football Association of Wales (FAW) rules meant she could no longer play with the boys.

Thankfully for Welsh football, Ingle returned to the pitch when her Vale Wanderers coach set up a girls' team when she was 14.

She then played for Dinas Powys Ladies and Cardiff City Ladies before joining Chelsea for the first of two spells in 2012.

By that stage, Ingle was an established Wales international, having made her senior debut in a 2-1 World Cup qualifying defeat to Azerbaijan three years earlier, only a matter of weeks after her 18th birthday.

Ward scored Wales' goal in Baku, with Ingle coming off the bench.

"It was a horrible game, horrible pitch, but this kid just made it look like she'd been doing it her whole life," Ward remembers.

"She's just a top player… technique is unbelievable, the way she reads a game, the way she can find a pass.

"She's my favourite footballer in the world."

Adrian Tucker was the manager who gave Ingle her first cap, in an era when the landscape was very different in women's football.

"She was good technically but she was also really good on the physical side, which was a really big thing at that time," he says.

"Did I think she would go on to win 150 caps? In 2009, I didn't think Wales would play 150 games. We were struggling to get five games a season.

"But since then there has been a boom in women's football and Sophie has been on the crest of that wave."

Captaincy brought belief

Ingle was just 23 when, in 2015, then Wales boss Jayne Ludlow made the bold decision to give her the captain's armband ahead of Jess Fishlock.

She would lead Wales for nine years before opting to stand down shortly after Rhian Wilkinson took charge of the national side in 2024.

"As a youngster she was a silent assassin - quiet, calm, nothing bothered her and her football did the talking," says Morgan, who retired before Ingle joined Wales' senior squad but worked with her as a coach.

"Then when Jayne Ludlow made her captain, that brought something different to Sophie. It heightened her confidence and belief in her own ability."

Ward believes Ingle's early elevation to the leadership role says something about her character.

"Who gets the captaincy at 23 other than Sophie?" says Ward, scorer of 44 goals in 105 Wales appearances.

"She's never been a shouter or a screamer but she's a leader in her own way. A top person, top professional and one of the most down-to-earth people you'll ever meet."

'Right at the top' in list of Welsh greats

Ingle's first stint at Chelsea lasted only a year, as she moved on to Bristol Academy and then Liverpool.

In 2018, she made the key decision to return to Chelsea, whose status had changed after Roman Abramovich began investing in the Blues' women's team.

During seven years with the London heavyweights, Ingle won five Women's Super League (WSL) titles, three FA Cups and two League Cups and played in the 2021 Champions League final.

At one stage she held the record for WSL appearances, with her Chelsea success helping Ingle land a place in the Team GB squad at the 2020 Olympics, where she was the sole Welsh player.

With Wales, meanwhile, Ingle continued to rack up caps, though she would have even more but for an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury which meant she did not play throughout the 2024-25 season.

Ingle battled through rehabilitation to make Wilkinson's Euro 2025 squad, though the knee issue meant she managed only one substitute appearance in Switzerland as Wales featured at a major women's tournament for the first time.

"The way she's come back from her ACL, I'm so proud of her," says Seattle Reign midfielder James, Ingle's successor as Wales skipper.

"She's the best team-mate you could have and she's led this group for such a long time. She's just a great person to have around, both on and off the field."

Wales said farewell to the player who is widely regarded as their finest female footballer when Fishlock retired from international duty last October.

James, though, says Ingle should be "right at the top" of any list of Welsh greats.

"I think if you're going to write the first person on your team sheet, Sophie's on there for me," she says.

Versatility is one of Ingle's various assets. She is best known as a midfielder but is equally at home in central defence, while there were also stints operating on the flanks in her younger days.

Given Ingle's humility, it is hard to imagine Ingle complaining wherever she is asked to play.

In the wake of Euro 2025, some wondered whether she might join Fishlock and fellow veteran Kayleigh Barton by calling time on her Wales career.

But having signed for Bristol City on a two-year deal after leaving Chelsea last summer, she is still around and still showing her class at international level.

"She's fantastic… I mean, what a player," says Wales head coach Wilkinson.

"Sophie would have retired if she didn't think she was going to keep getting better. She's that type of person – she wants to push herself.

"Credit to her, she's left one of the top clubs in the world and gone to a good team, but obviously one who play in a league down.

"She just wants the minutes, she wants to be sharp and you [continue to see] probably one of the best ever to play for Wales dominating at whatever age she is."

• Wales' Ingle back to best after injury woe
• Wales must take care of own business - Wilkinson
• Cain scores twice as Wales ease to Albania win

A double-century in sight?

Ingle will turn 35 in September. Inevitably, therefore, questions will be asked about how much longer she can play for Wales.

Morgan says it will be a personal decision which will depend on Ingle's "life commitments outside of football", but reckons she could continue playing at the back for her country for another five years.

As Ingle prepares to become only the second Welsh footballer to pass the 150-mark, Ward believes she will have Fishlock's Wales record of 166 caps in her sights.

"I wouldn't be surprised if she pushes on maybe to 200," Ward says.

"She's the sort of player that - and I don't mean any disrespect by this - doesn't rely on pace, so she hasn't got that to lose from her game.

"She'll always be able to read the game and she'll always be able to pass the ball, so as long as she wants to do it, I think she'll be able to do it."

But how does the woman herself view things?

Ingle is playing regularly at club level and remains a key figure for Wales, for whom the trip to Albania is the next step on the long qualification path they hope will lead to a first Women's World Cup.

"I feel good, I feel fresh. I just try and get on the ball as much as I can and play the effective passes," Ingle said after Tuesday's comfortable home victory over the Albanians.

"If Wales qualified for the World Cup, it would be amazing."

Shaun Harvey says the proudest feedback he regularly hears as a result of Wrexham's success is that clubs wish they were like the Red Dragons.

The former English Football League (EFL) chief executive and current Wrexham director has been pivotal in bridging the gap between Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac and the club's day-to-day staff since becoming involved at Stok Cae Ras.

Wrexham have gained three successive promotions and remain in the hunt to secure a play-off spot in the Championship this season.

And Harvey says the trials and tribulations of his past experiences in the EFL have been vital in ensuring he has been able to play his part in the club's rapid rise from the fifth-tier National League.

"All that experience is what goes into helping Wrexham on its journey and what in parts had an influence on back-to-back-to-back promotions, seeing how the club's operated and run, how it positions itself," he told the BBC's Sacked In The Morning podcast.

"The proudest thing I hear now is, 'I wish our club was like Wrexham'. Wrexham didn't exist in that format until Rob and Ryan took over.

"The Supporters Trust before had done a brilliant job in keeping the club alive, and all that experience has come together to help try and create, alongside Phil [Parkinson], the players, a lot of other people, the story that people are looking on now and saying, 'I wish there was more Wrexhams'."

• Wrexham must not gift top-six spot to rivals - Parkinson
• Listen to Wrexham interviews, news and discussion on BBC Sounds

Reynolds and Mac have been central to Wrexham's enormous growth over the past five years.

The club's revenue has surged from £1.48m during 2020-21 - the season in which Reynolds and Mac completed their takeover - to £33.3m in the latest financial year.

They are also the brains behind the immensely popular Welcome To Wrexham documentary - which has played a significant role in boosting the club's profile and revenue streams.

But Harvey says the duo's biggest attribute has been their willingness and eagerness to delegate responsibility to those more qualified to carry out certain tasks within the club.

"They've never tried to be anything that they're not, and they've always been genuine to what they are, and that is two individuals who see themselves as custodians of the football club, who want the best for the football club and know that the best way of achieving that is by putting the right people in place to allow it to live," Harvey said.

"Rob and Ryan are the club's best cheerleaders. They are the face of the club, which takes pressure off everywhere else.

Harvey says everyone else benefits from the role Reynolds and Mac have chosen to take.

"The biggest beneficiaries of this whole Wrexham experience is the local community," added the 56-year-old executive.

"I've had five wonderful years there, we're still going and we're still successful.

"Phil's into his fifth season as manager as well. We're all loving the experience, but the long-term benefit to the community is actually what will really signify, in the end, how successful this whole quest has been."

Despite the glorious achievements during their tenure as owners to date, Harvey says there was some scepticism around the actors intentions when they first showed an interest in the club.

But the former Leeds United CEO says the pair swiftly nullified his concerns.

"I think the first meetings with Rob and Ryan, you knew it was going to be different, and like a lot of people, I was only concerned that they were in this for the long run," Harvey explained.

"Now, five years in, it's a complete irrelevance. But at that stage, what I never wanted to be party to was getting the hopes and dreams up of a community in north Wales, and all of a sudden them being dropped and moved on.

"That was the only question I ever asked Rob and Ryan. How long are you in this for? And we've got to make sure that whatever happens, we leave the club in a better place than it is today.

"Once we got that principle established, it was easy."

• Does it matter if Wrexham don't get promoted this season?
• Latest Wrexham news, analysis and fan views

Wrexham currently sit four points adrift of sixth-placed Hull City with four matches left to play in the regular season.

And Harvey - who was speaking after his side's 5-1 loss to Southampton on 7 April - says the internal view has always been that the Red Dragons could at the very least compete for a top six place this term.

"We've probably surpassed most peoples' expectations. The players always believed. Generally, commentators from the outside looking in felt survival would be a good outcome this season," he said.

"I think the aim at the start of the season, at the risk of sitting on the fence, was to finish as high as we could.

"We knew we'd invested well, we knew we'd brought players in of good experience and they had the ability to get us up in and around that play-off area."

Former Cardiff City defender Danny Gabbison says there is "much more to come" from "super talented" Bluebirds youngster Dylan Lawlor.

Lawlor has featured 28 times for Cardiff in League One this season in their bid to make an instant return to the Championship.

The 20-year-old also featured regularly for Wales in the later stages of their unsuccessful campaign to reach this summer's World Cup finals.

"He's a talent, the boy," Gabbidon told BBC Sport Wales.

"I think the biggest thing that's impressed me about him, having met him a couple of times, is his attitude and his application and his professionalism.

"I think we've all seen the talent that he has so early in his career.

"He makes the game look really easy at times. And defending, you don't see many young centre-backs that play with his level of maturity, so young.

"Obviously, he's still learning. He's got a long way to go."

A product of the Cardiff City academy, Caerphilly-born Lawlor made his senior debut for the club against Aston Villa in the FA Cup in February 2025.

He made his league debut against Norwich City in the Championship in May 2024, followed by a first senior Wales cap and a man-of-the-match display in a 1-0 win over Kazakhstan in September the same year.

"The way he's stepped onto the international scene has been really impressive," added Gabbidon, who was a Cardiff City player when he was first capped by Wales in 2002.

"It reminds me a little bit of myself.

"I'm not trying to boast or anything, but I had a similar kind of journey where I was playing League One, League Two and stepped into international football and found it difficult at first, but was able to show I could perform on that level. It's been very similar for Dylan.

"He's had a fantastic breakthrough season and he's only just getting started. There's so much more to come from him. He's a super talented player.

"My only worry is Cardiff City keeping hold of him in the summer, because I think there's going to be a lot of big clubs after him."

• Who is Cardiff and Wales' sensation Dylan Lawlor?

Despite the Anaheim Ducks nearly coming up short against the Nashville Predators on Thursday night, they hung on and won, and the Edmonton Oilers did as well, leaving the Los Angeles Kings as the second wild-card team who will face the Colorado Avalanche. 

YOUR 2026 #STANLEYCUP PLAYOFFS BRACKET IS HERE 🔒

📺: The #StanleyCup Playoffs begin SATURDAY on @espn, @NHL_On_TNT, @Sportsnet, & @TVASportspic.twitter.com/N4wSW1bhSl

— NHL (@NHL) April 17, 2026

The opening game between the teams will be on Sunday afternoon at 12:00 PM PT on TNT. 

Entering the final game of the season, LA was tied with Anaheim for the third seed and one point behind Edmonton for the second spot in the Pacific Division. Edmonton and Anaheim took care of business, defeating their opponents and playing their full squads to avoid dropping in the standings. 

As a result of the Oilers and Ducks winning, the Kings will now face the Presidents' Trophy winners for the first time since 2002. The Avalanche won both meetings in the 2001 and 2002 playoff series, and this season swept the season series 3-0. 

The @Avalanche and @LAKings will open their 2026 #StanleyCup Playoffs against one another – the third series between the two teams (also 2002 CQF & 2001 CSF).

The Stanley Cup Playoffs begin April 18 (@ESPN, @NHL_On_TNT, @Sportsnet, @TVASports). #NHLStatspic.twitter.com/WFrzNIebwj

— NHL Public Relations (@NHLPR) April 17, 2026

The Kings have struggled with Colorado in all of their matchups this season, losing by more than two goals in each game. In the three meetings, LA struggled to keep up with Colorado's high-powered offense, which amped it up and took the game. 

Los Angeles is going to be viewed as the underdog in this contest, and it’s certainly going to be an uphill battle. But, if the Kings' defense can show up and make it tough like they've done in this final week with its impressive goaltending by Anton Forsberg and the offense gives production, it can be a competitive series, but it will be a lot to ask for the Kings to compete against the best offense in Hockey. 

Game Recap

Now, let's go through how the Kings secured the final wild-card spot and their first-round playoff matchup. 

The Kings closed their final regular-season game with a 3-1 loss over the Calgary Flames on Thursday night. 

Even if LA had won, their playoff seeding would remain the same, since the Oilers and Ducks both defeated their opponents on Thursday. 

The team played the entire game at full strength, recognizing that playoff seedings were at stake. Even then, LA came up short with its full squad out on ice, playing with no threat on offense all game long. 

Both teams struggled to score in the opening period, and the game was very slow, showcasing little to no offense. LA outshot Calgary 10-2 in the first period, but couldn't get a goal up despite getting more opportunities. 

It would all change in the second period. Calgary drew first blood at the 14:39 mark, scoring the power-play goal. Over a minute later, the Kings would respond, followed by a beautiful team-up led by Alex Laferriere and Trevor Moore, setting up Quinton Byfield to score his 24th goal of the season, a new career high.

LAK Goal - Byfield buried his 24th of the season, a new NHL career high! 1-1, mid-second period.

— Zach Dooley (@DooleyLAK) April 17, 2026

The scoreboard remained tied after 40 minutes. An even period with both teams getting 10 shots on goal, but Calgary was turning the puck over, and the Kings couldn't capitalize on their mistakes. 

We opened the third period with Calgary at the 13:52 mark, converting on the top glove snipe from the left side to retake the lead. All night long, the Kings were doing their best to get a shot up, but couldn't score. 

At this point in the third period, the Kings' best decision would've been to rest its starters and get ready for Sunday, with the playoff matchups already set, but LA continued to play its full squad. 

The final 40 seconds saw the Flames capitalize on the empty net goal to secure this victory at home, 3-1. 

Key Stats

Quinton Byfield finished with one goal and one point, scoring the only goal for the Kings all night. It wasn't a productive offensive night for the Kings at all, despite playing its entire squad for nearly 60 minutes. 

The Kings will travel to Colorado in the first round of the playoffs, with Game One being Sunday at 12:00 PM PT on TNT. 

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.

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said medical evaluations have become one of the most challenging parts of the draft process, citing a growing number of injury concerns among prospects and increased difficulty projecting long-term durability.

DeCosta also described the emotional weight of receiving daily medical updates at the NFL Scouting Combine.

"In a perfect world, you wouldn't be drafting players that have injuries. I think, in Emery [Jones Jr.'s] case, we certainly knew he had the injury, [and] we knew he was going to have the surgery. We understood that where we were picking in the third round, he was clearly the best player for us. And [we] loved his game. I had a chance to see him at the Senior Bowl, but generally, if you had the chance [with] all things being equal, you'd just draft guys that were totally healthy. As I said, it's getting tougher and tougher to do that because players are getting older, and more and more guys are having surgery, and more and more guys have medical concerns. And that's a challenge. And there's a lot of those guys in the draft every single year, and it's gotten worse. So, we have to find [information] through talking to our doctors and trainers and other people, we have to have a comfort [level] with certain types of injuries that guys are going to have. You're not going to draft 11 draft picks that don't have any injuries at all or haven't had any injuries. It's just not going to happen. In a physical game, when you're playing football for as many years as these guys have played at very high levels of football, guys are going to have some wear and tear on their bodies. And so, I think when you think about that, then you're looking at personality and you're looking at all these other qualities that might help a guy kind of navigate injuries and pain and different things like that – surgeries and all these other things. So yes, it's a hard part of the business, especially with draft prep, is sorting through [that information]. At the combine, every morning when I wake up, I have an envelope that's been slid under my door, and it's all the medical grades from the past day. And I freaking hate that day. I hate opening up that envelope because I'm going to see players that we really like that have received bad medical grades. And I always want to wait to open up that envelope until after I have my coffee so that I can just be relaxed a little bit more and just not stress out so much. But I see that envelope, and I'm like, 'Here we go again.' And inevitably, there's going to be between five to 10 players that have pretty serious medical injuries or conditions or various things that we have to sort through, and we usually take a few guys off the board. And it's just a part of the business that we're in."

For Baltimore, DeCosta made clear that medical evaluation remains one of the most consequential and stressful parts of the pre-draft process.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Eric DeCosta says draft injuries are harder to avoid each year

That’s a wrap on all of Thursday’s Copa Sudamericana matches, and here we bring you the star, the surprise, and the disappointment of the day.

Álvarez’s machine got going

After the draw in Paraguay, San Lorenzo knew they had no choice but to beat the group leaders and avoid making things complicated for themselves.

With that in mind, Gustavo Álvarez’s team played a great match, and Nicolás Tripichio and Jhohan Romaña were the scorers on the night. As time goes by, the coach’s machine is working better and better.

Blooming gave Bragantino a scare

Without a doubt, the Bolivian side delivered the biggest surprise of the night against the Brazilian team.

Everyone had Bragantino as the favorite, but the Bolivians were ahead until the 64th minute, and it wasn’t until the very last minute that Pitta managed to turn it around. They came very close to taking home a huge result from Brazil.

Tigre can’t catch a break

Without a doubt, El Matador de Victoria just can’t get off the ground in the CONMEBOL Sudamericana.

Today they hosted Macará looking for a win that would improve their position, but a mistake at the back allowed Paz to score the only goal of the match for the Venezuelan side, who climbed into second place.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

ANDERSON, MO. — World Series Champion Christian Colón was announced as McDonald County’s next Head Baseball Coach on April 10. Now, less than a week later, the former big leaguer addressed his new squad for the first time at a ribbon cutting ceremony to unveil the program’s new press box.

“These athletes could benefit from a voice that, yeah, I’ve been through a lot of good memories and also some tough ones,” Colón said.

Colón had an 11-year playing career in Major League Baseball after being drafted No. 4 overall in the 2010 MLB Draft, going on to play with the Kansas City Royals, Miami Marlins, Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, Cincinnati Reds and Toronto Blue Jays.

Following his time as a player, Colón gained coaching experience at the minor league level with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals (AA), Arkansas Travelers (AA) and KC Monarchs (Independent).

“He’s driven by purpose,” Athletic Director Bo Bergen said. “And, you know, I told people it’s nothing that we could really offer him. The only thing we could offer him was a chance to work with our kids, and that was more than enough for him.”

“He’s going to jump in and he’s going to be a part of this,” McDonald County Superintendent Eric Findley said. “He won’t miss a beat. He won’t miss a step at all. The people will love him like I did whenever I first came in here. Like they do anybody that’s a part of the community, he’s going to fit in perfectly.”

Colón has accrued several accolades throughout his playing career, but notably found his way into the hearts of many local Royals fans by delivering a game-winning hit in Game 5 of the 2015 Fall Classic.

“This state and the Royals have meant a lot to me and my family,” Colón said. “And if I can use what they did for me and how they helped me, if I can use it to someone else for other kids, that’s all I want to do is just pass it forward.”

Throughout the hiring process, Bergen said he was immediately drawn to not only the resume Colón boasts, but the character and values he possesses.

Colón echoed that sentiment, saying he and Bergen hit it off immediately throughout their initial conversations and their visions for the baseball program aligned off the bat.

“It’s a big responsibility. One that I don’t take lightly, and I’m looking forward to that,” Colón said.

McDonald County High School Baseball currently sits 5-11 overall at roughly the midway point of the 2026 season, a significant improvement from a 2-23 overall mark in 2025.

Colón will have his chance to return Mustangs Baseball to its winning ways beginning next season, though he spoke with the entire team for the first time at Thursday’s ribbon cutting ceremony.

“That was my message to them, just meet me in the middle,” Colón said. “Let’s get to work. I’ll meet you where you’re at. I’ll help you in every way I can. And I want to be here.”

Colón is expected to begin offseason work with Mustangs Baseball in July.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com.

Former Clemson wide receiver Jerry Butler and one-time USC quarterback Todd Ellis were among the five enshrined in the South Carolina Football Hall Of Fame Class of 2025 Thursday night in Greenville.

Butler made what’s referred to by Clemson fans as “The Catch” in the 1977 Clemson/Carolina game and the Ware Shoals native then went on to play in the NFL for several seasons with the Buffalo Bills.

Ellis was a four-year starter for South Carolina in the late ’80s, throwing for nearly 10,000 yards.

Former longtime NFL wide receiver A.J. Green, a Summerville native who played collegiately at Georgia, his fellow Charleston area native Dexter Coakley, an Appalachian State alum who played for nearly a decade with the Cowboys, and Union native and former Green Bay Packer Bob Jeter were also inducted.

Clemson linebacker Sammy Brown, who had 107 tackles in his sophomore season, was awarded the Blanchard-Rogers Trophy, which the Hall gives to the Palmetto State’s top college player.

Emily Beamer, wife of USC head football coach Shane Beamer, received a humanitarian award from the Hall as well.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.

TYLER, Texas (KETK) — The UT Tyler Patriots returned home on Thursday to start their final regular season series at Irwin Field, as they hosted Oklahoma Christian.

The Pats’ offense came alive down in the stretch in game one, as they knocked off the Eagles 13-3.

These two will square off again for a doubleheader on Friday, starting at 3:00 p.m., before they finish their series on Saturday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com.

No. 1 Oklahoma and No. 13 Minnesota clinched their spots in Saturday’s NCAA Gymnastics Championship, edging out No. 4 UCLA and No. 7 Arkansas in Thursday’s national semifinal.

The Sooners cruised to a dominating win, defeating the field by nearly a full point with a staggering total (198.300). Though K.J. Kindler’s squad led from start to finish, the battle between No. 13 Minnesota and Jordan Chiles’ UCLA Bruins came down to the final rotation.

The Sooners are familiar faces in the national championship, having won seven of the last 10. However, today’s result makes history for the Minnesota Golden Gophers as the program’s first appearance in the “Four on the Floor.” Head Coach Jenny Hansen’s squad is now guaranteed its best finish in program history.

"I’m still in a little disbelief," Hansen said to ESPN.

With their 1-2 finish, the Sooners and Golden Gophers will join No. 2 LSU and No. 3 Florida in Saturday’s National Championship. The Tigers and Gators punched their tickets earlier in the day in Fort Worth, beating Georgia and Stanford.

National Semifinal II Results:

1. Oklahoma: 198.300
2. Minnesota: 197.4625
3. UCLA: 197.275
4. Arkansas: 196.9625

Today’s semifinals produced the individual NCAA champions in the all-around and on all four events. After not competing all-around or floor exercise during the regular season, senior Faith Torrez clinched her first all-around title after key errors from Kailin Chio (LSU) and Jordan Chiles.

Oklahoma’s Keira Wells clinched the vault title with a near-perfect 9.975, edging out Chio and Kaliya Lincoln (LSU), who settled for silver. Florida senior Riley McCusker claimed the individual title on bars, the first NCAA title for the gymnast after winning the SEC title in 2025.

Minnesota made more history, with Brooklyn Rowray winning beam to become the program’s first national champion since 1990 – and only its second ever. Despite a disappointing all-around effort, Jordan Chiles claimed her second NCAA title on the floor in the final floor routine of her collegiate career.

Individual NCAA Champions:

All-Around: Faith Torrez (Oklahoma)

Vault: Keira Wells (Oklahoma)

Uneven Bars: Riley McCusker (Florida)

Balance Beam: Brooklyn Rowray (Minnesota)

Floor Exercise: Jordan Chiles (UCLA)

Fort Worth Play-by-Play

Rotation One: Oklahoma Sooners Open with History

Rotating in ‘Olympic’ order, the Sooners started their title campaign on vault. There was no settling into the equipment: Oklahoma opened with a near-perfect 9.975 from Keira Wells, and closed the rotation with five stuck vaults. The efforts earned a staggering 49.750 event total – the highest of the season and the second highest vault score in program history.

While there was no keeping up with the historic mark from the Sooners, the Minnesota Golden Gophers delivered on the most precarious event to start their night. Known for their abilities on beam, the Gophers posted a strong 49.3875 to place second after one rotation. Senior Brooklyn Rowray delivered a stunning routine in the penultimate spot, earning a 9.9625.

The Arkansas Razorbacks opened on the floor exercise, one of their stronger events. Though Jordyn Wieber’s squad began their meet tentatively, with an error in the leadoff spot and scores in the lower 9.8s, Lauren Williams and Joscelyn Roberson delivered back-to-back scores of 9.9+ to keep the Razorbacks in contention.

Jordan Chiles and the UCLA Bruins opened their night on bars, an event where Chiles is the defending NCAA Champion. Though the rotation produced multiple respectable scores of 9.8 or higher, UCLA fans waited for a reliable score of 9.95+ from Chiles. However, in a shocking turn of events, the Olympian fell on her opening handstand – her first fall of the season.

Within seconds, the No. 2 gymnast in the nation was out of the all-around race and would not defend her bars title. Though Chiles’ fall was shocking, a solid team total kept the Bruins in contention.

After One: 1. Oklahoma: 49.750, 2. Minnesota 49.3875, 3. Arkansas: 49.300, 4. UCLA: 49.2625

Rotation Two: Competition Steadies

The Sooners looked poised to run away with the competition after one, but in rotation two, their lead waned. After sticking all but one vault to open the meet, the Sooners had trouble sticking their landings on bars until the final few athletes. Senior Faith Torrez capped the rotation with a team-best 9.95.

On the floor, Minnesota delivered the scores necessary to hold the coveted second-place spot. The Golden Gophers were a pillar of consistency, recording no score below 9.8375 and ending their rotation with two-straight scores of 9.9 or higher.

After a shaky start on bars, the UCLA Bruins responded to adversity on beam with a huge 49.4875. Putting the fluke bars fall behind her, Chiles delivered one of the best routines of her career for a 9.95 in the anchor spot.

Needing a big total on vault, the Arkansas Razorbacks looked up to the task in Fort Worth. After weeks of inconsistent landings, freshman Alison Cucci hit when it mattered most, sticking her Yurchenko 1.5 for a career-high 9.9375. Leah Smith and Morgan Price added a pair of 9.900s to keep Arkansas in contention.

After Two: 1. Oklahoma: 99.225, 2. Minnesota 98.825, 3. UCLA: 98.7500, Arkansas: 98.6750

Rotation Three: UCLA Fights Back

In rotation three, the Sooners headed to beam – another strength. The Sooners cruised through another event, recording a huge 49.5375. Torrez led the way once more, closing the rotation with her second consecutive 9.95.

UCLA needed a huge floor rotation to hurdle Minnesota, and the Bruins delivered. Freshman and former elite gymnast Ashlee Sullivan tallied a huge 9.9375 in the penultimate spot, setting Jordan Chiles up for perfect-ten-potential. Chiles came close, earning a 10.0 from three judges for a 9.975 average.

With vault as their lowest-scoring event, Minnesota simply needed to minimize the bleeding and survive to bars. The Gophers only stuck one vault, but managed clean routines across the lineup. Freshman Arianna Ostrum capped the rotation emphatically, sticking her Yurchenko 1.5 for a 9.925.

After dialing in their landings on vault, the Arkansas Razorbacks partially lost their way on bars, posting three scores at 9.8 or lower. Morgan Price helped salvage the rotation, earning a fantastic 9.9125 in the anchor spot.

After Three: 1. Oklahoma: 148.7625, 2. UCLA 148.300, 3. Minnesota: 148.075, Arkansas: 147.875.

Rotation Four: Minnesota Triumphs

Though the Sooners’ ticket was all but punched, a battle was unfolding between UCLA and Minnesota. UCLA headed to the vault – a harder event to perfect – and Minnesota went to bars. It would all come down to landings to determine the second and final qualifying team for Saturday’s championship.

For UCLA, landings quickly went awry. Midway through the lineup, a shocking fall from senior Katelyn Rosen shook the lineup, leading to a major error from the next athlete up. Though Jordan Chiles closed the rotation with a solid vault, it was too little too late.

While UCLA stumbled, Minnesota thrived on bars. Freshman Lacie Saltzmann delivered the best routine of her young career for a 9.9625, nearly sealing the deal for the Golden Gophers. Needing just a 9.8375 to clinch the win over UCLA, former Irish elite Emma Slevin posted a 9.85 to make history for the Gophers.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

NEW YORK (AP) — Mike Trout hit his fifth homer of the series and the Los Angeles Angels overcame a homer by Aaron Judge in their 11-4 victory over the New York Yankees on Thursday afternoon for a four-game split.

Trout, who recently made a mechanical adjustment, went 6 for 16 with five homers and nine RBIs in the series. Trout hit his latest homer with one out in the seventh inning when he sent a 2-2 slider from reliever Angel Chivilli about halfway up the left field bleachers for a 7-4 lead.

Trout homered in his fifth straight game at Yankee Stadium and became the fourth to hit five homers in a series against the Yankees. The others were Jimmie Foxx (1933), Darrell Evans (1985) and George Bell (1990), according to MLB researcher Sarah Langs.

Trout’s latest homer contributed to a rare loss for the Yankees when Judge and Giancarlo Stanton homer in the same game. Including the postseason, New York is 53-8 when the duo both connect.

Jo Adell added a grand slam in the eighth for the Angels, who lead the AL with 32 homers.

Judge hit his 89th career first-inning homer and Stanton hit a two-run shot to give the Yankees a 3-2 lead in the fourth before the Angels scored four runs in the sixth off Max Fried (2-1) and Fernando Cruz. Ben Rice also homered in the sixth.

Trout walked three times and scored the tying run in a four-run sixth on a double by former Yankee Oswald Peraza, who also hit a two-run homer in the first.

GIANTS 3, REDS 0

CINCINNATI (AP) — Landen Roupp allowed one hit in six innings and Matt Chapman had an RBI double to spark a three-run rally in the seventh and help San Francisco beat Cincinnati.

Roupp (3-1) didn’t allow a hit until No. 9 batter P.J. Higgins led off the sixth with a single. That ended up being the Reds only hit of the day.

Roupp hit TJ Friedl with a pitch, but Matt McLain struck out and Elly De La Cruz grounded into a double play to end the threat. Roupp walked two, struck out six and left after 87 pitches.

Ryan Walker pitched the seventh and Keaton Winn struck out two in the eighth. Erik Miller struck out the side in the ninth for his first career save.

The Giants rallied when Luis Arraez reached on an error by De La Cruz at short leading off the seventh against reliever Brock Burke (1-1). Arraez scored from first on Chapman’s two-out double off the wall in left-center field. Jung Hoo Lee followed with an RBI single. Connor Phillips entered and walked Heliot Ramos before Casey Schmitt singled in a third unearned run.

Reds rookie Chase Burns allowed two hits and a walk, but still faced the minimum through six scoreless innings. He struck out four and left after throwing 87 pitches.

BREWERS 2, BLUE JAYS 1

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Garrett Mitchell scored the go-ahead run as Milwaukee bunted three straight times in the seventh inning to break a tie and beat Toronto.

Aaron Ashby (5-0) faced only two batters and got the final out in the seventh to take over the major league lead in wins.

Toronto stranded the potential tying run at third when Kazuma Okamoto grounded out against Angel Zerpa, who earned his second save. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had hit a leadoff single and reached third on a pair of grounders to the right side.

Milwaukee snapped a six-game skid Wednesday by scoring twice in the eighth inning while hitting just one ball out of the infield. The Brewers didn’t hit any balls out of the infield during their seventh-inning rally Thursday.

Mitchell drew a leadoff walk from Tommy Nance (0-1) and Greg Jones bunted him over to second. David Hamilton beat out a bunt hit to put runners on the corners. Joey Ortiz delivered a safety squeeze that brought home Mitchell.

NATIONALS 8, PIRATES 7, 10 INNINGS

PITTSBURGH (AP) — James Wood singled to score automatic runner Jorbit Vivas in the 10th inning and Washington beat Pittsburgh.

Reliever Clayton Beeter (1-0) got his first career win despite giving up the ninth-inning run that sent the game to an extra inning. Brandon Lowe hit an infield single to score Jake Mangum, who Beeter walked.

Dennis Santana (2-1) pitched the top of the 10th for the Pirates.

Orlando Ribalta earned his first career save.

The Nationals scored four runs in the top of the fifth inning. Rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin had a throwing error that scored the first three. Luis García Jr. grounded into a fielder’s choice and Griffin was unable to tag second in time before he threw wildly to first base. Drew Millas, Vivas and Nasim Nuñez all scored.

The Pirates challenged Nuñez’s slide to second for any illegal contact, but the call was upheld.

RAYS 5, WHITE SOX 3

CHICAGO (AP) — Junior Caminero homered and Tampa scored twice on bases-loaded walks in the ninth inning, rallying for a win over Chicago.

The Rays (11-7) trailed by one run three times before pulling ahead against White Sox (6-13) relievers Seranthony Dominguez and Lucas Sims, extending their winning streak to six games.

Dominguez entered with a one-run lead after Everson Pereira homered in the eighth inning, his second long ball in seven at-bats since returning from a sprained ankle. But Dominguez exited to boos with the bases loaded and one out after allowing Caminero’s leadoff home run, a single, a walk, a hit batter and a wild pitch.

Sims struck out Jake Fraley before walking Hunter Feduccia and Taylor Walls. The White Sox have lost six straight home games after starting 3-0.

TIGERS 10, ROYALS 9

DETROIT (AP) — Riley Greene doubled home two runs to tie the score with two outs in the ninth inning, and Colt Keith followed with the winning single as streaking Detroit rallied past Kansas City in a wild game delayed twice by rain.

Dillon Dingler launched a two-run homer and Greene finished with three hits for the Tigers, who squandered a five-run lead but recovered to win their sixth straight.

Salvador Perez drove in four for the Royals, including a three-run homer to cap a six-run seventh that gave them an 8-6 lead. Vinnie Pasquantino also went deep, his first homer this season, and Bobby Witt Jr. had three hits and scored three times.

RANGERS 9, ATHLETICS 6

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Joc Pederson hit a go-ahead single in a four-run ninth inning and Texas rallied last in a victory over the Athletics to earn a split of its four-game series.

Nick Kurtz blooped a three-run double that Wyatt Langford couldn’t chase down in left field to give the Athletics a 6-5 lead with two outs in the eighth.

Jake Burger and Josh Jung singled to start the ninth against Justin Sterner (0-2). Kyle Higashioka was safe when Sterner fielded his bunt and threw it over the head of Darell Hernaiz at third for an error, allowing Burger to score the tying run. Pederson gave the Rangers the lead, and Ezequiel Duran added to it with a two-run single.

Brandon Nimmo had an RBI single in the third off Jacob Lopez, and Burger added a sacrifice fly in the fifth to put Texas up 2-0.

Jacob Wilson had a two-run single off Jack Leiter in the A’s fifth and Carlos Cortes followed with an RBI single to give them a 3-2 lead.

Luis Medina followed Lopez in the sixth, and Pederson worked a pinch-hit walk with one out after winning an ABS challenge on an 0-2 pitch. Josh Smith’s two-out RBI double tied it 3-all.

Jung hit his first home run of the season — a two-run shot off Scott Barlow in the seventh for a 5-3 Rangers lead.

Leiter allowed three runs on seven hits and three walks in 5 2/3 innings. Jakob Junis was charged with three runs in 1 1/3 innings after Jacob Latz entered with the bases loaded and gave up Kurtz’s double.

GUARDIANS 4, ORIOLES 2

CLEVELAND (AP) — Parker Messick took a no-hitter into the ninth inning, José Ramírez homered for the third time in four games and Cleveland opened a seven-game homestand with a victory over Baltimore.

Making his 11th major league start, Messick (3-0) faced one batter more than the minimum through eight innings before Leody Taveras led off the ninth with a grounder that just eluded diving second baseman Juan Brito and went into right field for a single.

Blaze Alexander followed with a line-drive single to center before the rookie left-hander was removed to a standing ovation from the crowd of 14,748.

Taylor Ward’s single off closer Cade Smith loaded the bases, and Gunnar Henderson’s sacrifice fly drove in Taveras. Pete Alonso hit an RBI double that put runners at second and third with one out.

Smith then retired pinch-hitter Colton Cowser on a fly to center and Samuel Basallo on a grounder for his fourth save.

The 25-year-old Messick walked two and equaled a career best with nine strikeouts. He was charged with two runs in eight-plus innings, his longest outing in the majors. He threw 112 pitches, 78 for strikes.

PADRES 5, MARINERS 2

SAN DIEGO (AP) — Fernando Tatis Jr.’s two-run single capped a four-run rally in the second inning, Walker Buehler earned his first win with San Diego and the Padres beat Seattle for their eighth straight win and 11th in 12 games.

Mason Miller struck out the side on 14 pitches in the ninth for his sixth save and to extend his scoreless innings streak to 30 2/3 innings, the longest active streak in the majors. He passed Randy Jones (30 innings in May 1980) for second-longest in Padres history and trails only Cla Meredith (33 2/3 innings, July-September 2006).

San Diego beat Seattle for just the fourth time in 12 games at Petco Park since 2022. Seattle won the season series 5-1 last year and claimed the inaugural Vedder Cup, named after Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder, who has ties to both cities. The trophy is a Fender Telecaster guitar signed by Vedder. The teams play again May 15-17 in Seattle.

Buehler (1-1) took a two-hit shutout into the sixth before allowing three straight singles. He was chased by Cal Raleigh’s RBI single, and Julio Rodríguez greeted reliever Bradgley Rodriguez with another run-scoring base hit. The Mariners had the bases loaded with one out before Adrian Morejon came on and retired the side.

Buehler threw his glove against a dugout wall after being pulled. He allowed two runs and five hits, struck out seven and walked one.

ROCKIES 3, ASTROS 2

HOUSTON (AP) — Hunter Goodman homered and doubled to help Colorado snap a six-game skid with a victory over Houston.

Goodman’s solo shot tied it in the fourth inning and Colorado took the lead in the fifth on an RBI single by Tyler Freeman, who had three hits.

Chase Dollander (2-1) took over with two outs in the first and pitched 5 1/3 scoreless innings for the win. He struck out nine and allowed only one hit.

Victor Vodnik walked one in a scoreless ninth for his second save.

Jose Altuve had two hits for the Astros, who have dropped nine of 11.

Altuve hit a leadoff single in the first and moved to second on a wild pitch by opener Juan Mejia. Houston took a 1-0 lead when Altuve scored on a single by Yordan Alvarez.

With two outs, Mejia plunked Christian Walker on the arm with a pitch before a single by Joey Loperfido scored Alvarez to make it 2-0. But the offense stalled after that, and the Astros finished with five hits.

Although the Kansas City Royals are 7-12 after Thursday's 10-9 loss to the Detroit Tigers, their hitting provided a silver lining. They had several different players contribute, which is a sign of the lineup's potential.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro spoke about the offense postgame, via MLB.com.

"There were a lot of positives offensively today. Obviously the big inning, but we chipped away earlier than that," he said. "We got it back to 6-2, adding on the extra run. But yeah, there were great at-bats throughout that seventh inning, even positives before that. Vinnie [Pasquantino] had a bunch of productive swings, good at-bats earlier in the game as well. Salvy [Salvador Perez] as well. There were a lot of bright spots. Bobby [Witt Jr.] I think had three hits. Overall, a lot of productive outs and a lot of productive at-bats."

Rookie catcher Carter Jensen tied the game 1-1 with an RBI single in the fourth inning before Kansas City fell behind 6-1 entering the top of the sixth. Perez then hit a sacrifice fly to bring the score to 6-2 before a six-run rally in the seventh.

Right fielder Jac Caglianone started the rally with an RBI single before third baseman Maikel Garcia and Witt each had RBI singles as well. Perez then launched a three-run homer to left, giving the Royals an 8-6 lead. 

Pasquantino scored Kansas City's final run on a solo homer in the ninth, giving the squad a 9-7 lead. However, setup man Lucas Erceg blew the save in the bottom frame, and the Royals lost on a walkoff single by infielder Colt Keith. Erceg is filling in at closer for fellow right-hander Carlos Estevez (foot).

Royals Need Lineup to Stay Hot As They Look to Get Above .500

Kansas City needs its offense to play as it did on Thursday more often. The club scored just two runs or fewer in seven of its eight preceding games, and that type of production won't be enough to compete in the AL Central.

But if Thursday is the sign of a new trend, the Royals are in good shape. That especially applies to Pasquantino, who's slahsing just .155/.244/.347. The 28-year-old hitting a clutch homer in the ninth was a much-needed respite from the slump he's been on.

Every player in the Royals' lineup had a hit except for center fielder Kyle Isbel on Thursday, and three had multiple hits. Witt led the way, as he went 3-for-5 with three runs scored and one RBI.

Up next for Kansas City is a three-game road series against the New York Yankees before heading home to host the Baltimore Orioles and Los Angeles Angels. Friday's game against the Yankees starts at 7:05 p.m. ET, and right-handed pitcher Michael Wacha will start for the Royals against right-hander Cam Schlittler.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Ben Reifel became the first middle school in Sioux Falls to host a Unified basketball game on Thursday afternoon.

The Bison hosted the Washington Warriors Best Buddies for their inaugural matchup. The goal of the Unified sports program is to give students with disabilities opportunities to participate in sporting events alongside their peers. Ben Reifel teachers and staff say the program has paid dividends both on and off the floor since its launch.

“The best thing is when they see each other now in the hallways, there’s not that divide between students with disabilities and the general population,” special education teacher Desiree Burggraaf said. “They know each others names, they’re giving each other high fives, fist bumps, shouting at each other.”

The Bison came out victorious on the floor too, with a 23-22 win over the Warriors.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.

The First round of the MHSAA Baseball and Softball playoffs are underway and the Pisgah Dragons hosted games on Thursday. Baseball beat Magee 11-1 in 6 innings of play while the Softball team beat Jefferson Davis County 9-1. Baseball highlights below.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AUGUSTANA) — Augustana split its conference doubleheader Thursday afternoon at Bowden Field, opening with a 6-0 win over Southwest Minnesota State before falling 2-1 in the nightcap.

Augustana 6, Southwest Minnesota State 0
Desi Cuevas led the Vikings with three hits and two RBI while Norah Christiansen added a home run and two RBI to pace the Augustana offense. Claire Wynja collected two hits and an RBI, and Teya Speltz (5-5) was outstanding in the circle, tossing a complete-game shutout while allowing just three hits and striking out one.

After a scoreless opening frame, Augustana broke through in the second inning. Christiansen led off the inning by sending a pitch over the left-field fence for a solo home run to give the Vikings a 1-0 lead.

The Vikings added to their advantage in the third inning with a two-out rally. Andrea Cain tripled down the right-field line before Cuevas followed with a single. Wynja then delivered an RBI single through the right side to score Cuevas, and Sidney Smart capped the inning with an RBI double to push the lead to 3-0.

Augustana continued to apply pressure in the fourth inning. Ella Cooper and Susie Tollefson each singled to start the frame before Cain loaded the bases with a base hit. Cuevas came through again, ripping a double down the left-field line to score two runs and extend the lead to 5-0.

The Vikings added their final run in the fifth inning as Stella Harber worked a walk and later came around to score on an RBI double from Christiansen, making it 6-0.

Speltz took care of the rest, keeping the Mustangs off the scoreboard throughout the game. The right-hander scattered three hits across seven innings and worked around the only walk she allowed, as the Augustana defense backed her throughout.

Augustana finished with 13 hits in the game, with Cuevas, Wynja, Christiansen and Cooper each recording multi-hit performances.

Southwest Minnesota State 2, Augustana 1 
Southwest Minnesota State struck early and held off a late Augustana push to earn a split of the doubleheader with a 2-1 victory.

The Mustangs plated both of their runs in the second inning, using a double, single and a wild pitch to take a 2-0 lead.

Augustana threatened throughout but broke through in the sixth inning. Kierra Lubovich tripled down the right-field line and came home on a sacrifice from Sidney Smart to cut the deficit to 2-1.

The Vikings were unable to complete the comeback in the seventh, as Southwest Minnesota State retired the side to secure the win.

Lubovich, Ella Cooper and Susie Tollefson each recorded a hit for Augustana. Helene Krage (8-7) went the distance in the circle, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out one.

Up Next
Augustana shifts its attention to Sunday afternoon as it heads across town to face Sioux Falls at 4/6 p.m. 

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — No. 3 Harrisburg and O’Gorman both earned big wins on Thursday afternoon.

The Tigers pulled off the upset of No. 1 Jefferson in a 7-3 contest. Kade Wede earned the win for Harrisburg with 13 strikeouts, five hits, and one run across six innings. Bryson Esser dominated at the plate for the Tigers with two home runs and 4 RBI in the win.

The Knights also put up seven runs in their 7-2 win over Roosevelt. Isaac Tobin struck out five and walked four, allowing two hits and no runs over four and two-thirds innings. Bennett Duncan recorded two runs and two RBI in the win.

O’Gorman will host Fargo Davies on Friday at 6pm and Harrisburg travels to Watertown for a two-game series with the Arrows. The Cavaliers and the Rough Riders will face each other on Saturday at noon.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.

The Boston Red Sox didn't play a game on Thursday, but that doesn't mean there wasn't anything to watch for fans of the organization. 

High-A Greenville had a game with No. 5 prospect Juan Valera on the mound. Any time you have a 19-year-old top prospect on the mound who can throw 101.7 miles per hour, it's appointment viewing, if possible.

Unfortunately, though, Valera was forced to exit the game early on Thursday for Greenville. MassLive.com's Chris Cotillo reported that the reason why Valera was forced out of the game was due to "elbow inflammation."

"Pitching prospect Juan Valera left his start at Greenville with elbow inflammation, source says. He was recently ranked as Baseball America's No. 100 prospect in baseball," Cotillo wrote. 

Any time you hear about an elbow issue of any kind for a hurler, it's not great. Over the next few days, there should be more information. Hopefully, this is nothing long-term for the young flamethrower. While not likely for the big league club this season, if he can pitch to his potential, making it all the way up to Triple-A Worcester should be very possible.

More MLB: Red Sox–Cardinals Trade Looks Like Major Boston Win

Universidad de Chile has taken a strategic step in consolidating its sports project for 2026. The club officially announced the signing of the first professional contracts for three of its young prospects: Diego Vargas, Elías Rojas, and Matías Riquelme, who have already featured for the first team this season.

Export-ready profiles and a sense of belonging

The three youth players represent the success of the development process at the CDA. Diego Vargas (19), a versatile full-back, has already logged 120 minutes in the top flight; Elías Rojas (18) stands out for his physical presence in midfield; while Matías Riquelme (18) brings technical quality and attacking vision. Manuel Mayo, sporting director, emphasized that these players have "lived" the club’s culture since the youth ranks.

Identity as the central pillar

With this move, the institution is not only rewarding performance, but also seeking to inject identity into the professional squad. The contractual protection ensures that homegrown talent will be the foundation of the blue side’s long-term planning.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Paul DePodesta came prepared with more than remarks.

The Colorado Rockies president of baseball operations offered a grin and then a joke and then a laugh. Why not? He’s eager to see what kind of stamina he has; or how much is still there.

The 53-year-old remembers how long a season can be. The spring training. The games. The travel. The scouting. The deadlines. The hours.

But recollections — after spending the past decade working for the NFL’s Cleveland Browns — and actually experiencing all those things aren’t the same. DePodesta knows that. He’s still excited by all of it.

“It’s been really good to be back,” DePodesta said Thursday. “Not only in the big league stuff, but the minor league stuff and some of the amateur scouting stuff. … Looking forward to getting through the calendar, at least one full time, and I think it’ll slow down for us.”

But right now? Well, there isn’t any time to stop. There’s too much to do and too much to see. Players, coaches, farm system coordinators. There are already plans to log plenty of miles. And not just in terms of altitude.

Along with the Rockies’ base in Denver, there have been — and will be — trips to Albuquerque, where DePodesta was on hand Thursday to see the Isotopes rally for a 9-5 comeback win over Oklahoma City. A day game that saw Vimael Machín drive in three runs, reach base three times and score twice, Blaine Crim hit a game-tying single in the seventh and Adael Amador knock a season-high three hits, including the go-ahead single in the eighth.

Along with Albuquerque, DePodesta is planning visits to Connecticut, Washington state, California, Arizona and even Boca Chica in the Dominican Republic to see the organizations’ other farm system teams.

It’s part of the rebuild DePodesta, the man who rose to prominence during the Oakland Athletics’ Moneyball era, has been put in charge of to align the Rockies with Denver’s other major professional teams.

It’s a large task, and a difficult one.

While the Denver Nuggets and the Colorado Avalanche have each won a championship in the past five years, and the Denver Broncos were on the cusp of a Super Bowl appearance this past season, the Rockies have been stuck in a quagmire. One Colorado seems unable to get out of.

All this comes while playing home games a mile above sea level and in the same division as the free-spending Dodgers — according to the MLB commissioner’s office, the Dodgers spent a record $515 million in its World Series-winning 2025 season — as well as the San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks, each of whom have had spurts of success.

DePodesta has his work cut out for him as he takes over a franchise that seems to have plenty of drawbacks and certainly detractors. The Rockies, after all, had the worst run differential (-424) and starting pitcher ERA (6.65) in the majors last season.

The Rockies are coming off three straight 100-loss seasons. Last year’s 119 tied the 2003 Detroit Tigers for the third most in the modern era. In its 33 years of existence, the franchise has pulled together three consecutive winning seasons only one time: 1995-97.

“I think we have to be ourselves,” DePodesta said. “If you look at those different situations around our division, they’ve all done it a little differently and yet, they’ve all been pretty successful teams. We have to focus on ourselves ultimately.

“… But there are things that we’re going to have to do that will be unique to Denver, unique to playing in altitude, that will ultimately help us be successful.”

How quickly that uniqueness comes to fruition, or what it will look like will be determined by the “groundwork” DePodesta is trying to set. Really, it’s a philosophy that sees the entirety of the organization moving in a singular direction no matter the level, no matter the players, no matter the coaches.

In other words, everything is intertwined and needs to be treated as such. It certainly couldn’t hurt to try and the Rockies don’t have a lot to lose.

“That’s actually what we want it to be is one organization, from the big leagues down to the Dominican, and even into all of our scouting operations,” said DePodesta, who views a big league roster as 50 to 60 players deep. “We’re really looking for it to be a unified operation. So the way we do things in Denver is going to be the way we do things in Albuquerque and the way we’re going to do in Boca Chica. And that’s something I think is really important for us to try to get right.”

It’s why the trips to the various minor league affiliates — like he did with Albuquerque on Thursday — to check on things and communicate has been and will continue to be important.

The Rockies know something different needs to happen. DePodesta just needs to see it through. It’s just a matter of how quickly all that past stamina comes back.

Oh, and how quickly the tangible results present themselves in Denver.

“That’s what everybody’s after is trying to find good young players,” DePodesta said. “Those are foundational players for the organization. We feel like we have that opportunity here with some of the players we have coming through the system, even with some of the players already in Denver. But we still need to actually make that happen.”

David Glovach covers New Mexico United and other sports for the Journal. Reach him at dglovach@abqjournal.com or via X @DavidGlovach

LOVB Salt Lake is one win away from its first championship.

LOVB Salt Lake defeated LOVB Austin 22-25, 25-21, 22-25, 27-25, 16-14 in Game 1 of the 2026 LOVB championship series on Thursday in Long Beach, California. LOVB Austin now must win Game 2 on Saturday to force a decisive golden set to keep its back-to-back title hopes alive, otherwise LOVB Salt Lake will hoist its first Tiffany championship trophy.

LOVB Austin and LOVB Salt Lake entered the championship series on equal footing. Both teams finished tied for third place in the regular season with identical 10-10 records. Both clubs split their four meetings during the regular season and each club survived a fifth, golden set in the semifinals to advance to the championships.

Like both semifinal rounds, Game 1 of the championship series also came down to a golden set. The decisive fifth set featured nine ties between both clubs. LOVB Austin had a 13-11 lead, but LOVB Salt Lake closed the match on a 6-1 run to win and deliver a blow to the defending champions.

LOVB Salt Lake outside hitter Alexa Gray said her squad had to get "a little bit of jitters out," but praised the team's resilience in coming back to force a fifth set and ultimately win the game.

"I don't think it was our best volleyball," said Gray, who finished with a game-high 28 points, 24 kills and seven blocks. "But I thought we stuck together as a group and did what we could do even through the weird, but just really proud of how we stayed in it and fought."

LOVB Salt Lake racked up 32 errors in the win, compared to 22 for LOVB Austin. LOVB Austin had an advantage in blocks (19-14) and Aces (7-1), but LOVB Salt Lake was able to piece together a run when it mattered most.

The evening started with a special guest. Zhuri James, the daughter of Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James and Savannah James, delivered the honorary first serve ahead of Game 1 of the LOVB championship on Thursday.

Reach USA TODAY National Women’s Sports Reporter Cydney Henderson at chenderson@gannett.com and follow her on X at @CydHenderson.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: LOVB Salt Lake takes 1-0 lead over LOVB Austin in championship series

Tigers' Colt Keith delivers first MLB game-winning hit, sweeps away Royals on season's first hit off changeup originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

After not facing a left-handed starting pitcher for the opening 16 games of the MLB season, the Detroit Tigers faced their second southpaw in three days Thursday, sending utility specialist Colt Keith to the bench for both outings.

Keith remained patient.

Waiting through two rain delays for a right-handed reliever to enter Thursday's game at Comerica Park, Keith's left-handed swing finally earned a summons from Tigers manager A.J. Hinch.

With the Royals leading by two runs entering the bottom of the ninth inning, Riley Greene fueled the comeback with a game-tying double, followed by Keith's first career game-winning hit, capping a 10-9 victory. The Tigers (10-9), winners of six straight for the first time since 2024, earned the three-game sweep by securing a trifecta of come-from-behind, one-run victories.

Keith's decisive RBI single to right field Thursday proved to be his first hit off a changeup this season.

"We're being clutch and playing clean," Keith told Detroit SportsNet during a wet post-game interview.

Tigers' Colt Keith hitting like breakout candidate

For the first time in his three-year career, Keith did not stumble out of spring training, hitting .163 in April as a rookie and .186 during the opening month as a sophomore.

This season has been different. While Hinch tends to keep Keith on the bench against left-handed starters, the versatile infielder remains one of the lineup's top candidates for an All-Star-type breakout. In his opening six starts, he batted .364.

On Thursday's game-winner, Keith said he was looking for a changeup.

"They've been doing it to me all series," said Keith, who was hitless in five at-bats during the first two games of the series.

Scheduled to open a series against the host Boston Red Sox on Friday, Keith led the Tigers with a .317 batting average and seven doubles. He had yet to connect on a home run in 60 at-bats, but through his opening 15 appearances, Keith ranked fifth in the league in exit velocity (93.5 mph).

Keith still doesn't start against lefties, but he came up clutch Thursday and remains patient for a breakout. 

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (AP) — Macklin Celebrini had a goal and two assists to break Joe Thornton's San Jose record for points in a season with 115, helping the Sharks rout the Winnipeg Jets 6-1 on Thursday night in the finale for both teams.

The 19-year-old Celebrini had 45 goals and 70 assists in 82 games in his second NHL season. Thornton had 114 points in 2006-07, also playing 82 games. Last season, Celebrini had 63 points in 70 games, with 25 goals and 38 assists.

San Jose missed the playoff for the seventh consecutive season, finishing 39-35-8.

The Jets were 35-35-12 to miss the playoffs for the first time since 2021-22. They are the fifth NHL team to win the Presidents’ Trophy for the best regular-season record and not qualify for the playoffs the following season.

William Eklund also had a goal and two assists for San Jose. Will Smith had a goal and an assist, Collin Graf, Igor Chernyshov and Michael Misa also scored, and John Klingberg added three assists. Alex Nedeljkovic stopped 25 shots.

Cole Koepke scored for Winnipeg.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

The 2026 NFL Draft is one week from tonight, or the first round is, at least. When Day Two of this year’s selection meeting rolls around in Pittsburgh, a face with some local flavor is going to be announcing the picks for our favorite team.

Offensive tackle Brian O’Neill has been announced as the person who will be announcing the Vikings’ picks on Friday for this year’s Draft. The NFL has had legends and current players announcing picks on Draft Friday for the past few years, and O’Neill has gotten that honor for the Vikings this season.

O’Neill, who played his college football at the University of Pittsburgh, was himself selected on Day Two of an NFL Draft, as the Vikings selected him in the second round back in 2018. With the Panthers, he was a First-Team All-ACC selection as a senior, and has gone on to earn two Pro Bowl berths as a member of the Vikings since joining them.

As it stands right now, barring any trades, O’Neill will get to announce three picks for the Vikings, one in Round 2 and two in Round 3. If the Vikings keep that second-round pick, it will be the first selection they’ve made in Round 2 since 2022, when they selected both Andrew Booth and Ed Ingram. The Vikings did not have a second-round pick in 2023, 2024, or 2025 because of trades they had made.

College football recruiting experts are calling the class that BYU added last December the best in school history.

It was led, of course, by four-star quarterback Ryder Lyons of Folsom, California, and four-star tight end Brock Harris, from St. George’s Pine View High in southern Utah.

Those highly regarded players are currently on missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Orlando, Florida (Lyons), and Spokane, Washington (Harris), and both have said that they will return in time to join the BYU football program before the 2027 season.

“I loved the way the team worked, and we had some new faces come in … who are going to be great contributors to our team. … Even some true freshmen will play. They are good enough to play.”

BYU coach Kalani Sitake

Other signees from that 2026 class that 247Sports ranked as the 18th best in the country, and second best in the Big 12, are also on church missions or will be serving shortly, most notably Olympus High three-star linebacker Adam Bywater, brother of former BYU standout linebacker Ben Bywater.

However, a large number of those signees have already enrolled at BYU and participated in the recently completed 15 spring football practices. The only player in that group who has yet to join the team is Antonio Johnson, a 6-foot-4, 170-pound cornerback from Fort Worth, Texas.

One of the signs that this truly is an extraordinary signing class for head coach Kalani Sitake is that several of the prospects who signed last December could end up playing right away, Sitake and coordinators Kelly Poppinga and Aaron Roderick said when camp wrapped up on April 2.

“I loved the way the team worked, and we had some new faces come in … who are going to be great contributors to our team,” Sitake said. “… Even some true freshmen will play. They are good enough to play.”

A lot of the newcomers the head coach was talking about come from the transfer portal. Guys such as Oregon receiver Kyler Kasper, USC tight end Walker Lyons, Oregon tight end Roger Saleapaga and Cal linebacker Cade Uluave have been profiled by the Deseret News in recent weeks and surely will make their marks this fall, along with returning stars LJ Martin, Bear Bachmeier, Sione Moa, Faletau Satuala and Keanu Tanuvasa.

Returned missionaries such as linebacker/defensive end Adney Reid, quarterback Enoch Watson and receiver Jett Nelson could also see the field, although generally it takes players a bit of time before they are back to full strength and fitness after missionary service.

Then there are the true freshmen. Up to a half-dozen, maybe more, could log playing time this fall, and not because the roster of returning players is thin. As Sitake said, these new, young guys are good.

Going off what coaches said about them in spring camp, and what was observed by media members, the list of true freshmen who could play right away includes offensive lineman Bott Mulitalo, linebacker Braxton Lindsey, receiver Legend Glasker, running back Devaughn Eka and athletes Kennan Pula and Jaron Pula, twin brothers.

“What’s been different this year is having all the high school kids that are already with us now,” Sitake said. “Every one of them has been enrolled with us early, and got here in January, except for Antonio Johnson. He’s joining us in June. So we got a jump start on it, and that’s huge for them and their development.

“There is a huge upside to them. There is no ceiling, so we got to push it, and see how far we can get these guys to improve physically, mentally, spiritually and in all aspects of their life,” Sitake concluded.

Here’s a closer look at five of the freshmen BYU fans could get to know better this fall:

Receiver Legend Glasker

Hardly a day went by when media members were allowed to watch portions of spring practices when the Lehi High product didn’t make a remarkable play, or wasn’t mentioned by coaches as one of the standouts of camp. The three-star recruit, who is the cousin of BYU linebacker Isaiah Glasker, is pushing to make the six-receiver rotation that receivers coach Fesi Sitake likes to use.

“I know they are freshmen, but there are some ready-made guys who I think, if they stay on their trajectory, can fill in any type of void we have,” Fesi Sitake said, referring to Glasker and returned missionary Jett Nelson, among others.

Said Roderick: “I will probably forget about somebody, but Legend Glasker is somebody who has really stood out this spring. I expect him to contribute this fall.”

Glasker could also get on the field as a kick or punt returner. He caught 37 passes for 676 yards and nine touchdowns at Lehi as a senior and 37 passes for 781 yards and 11 touchdowns as a junior.

Linebacker/defensive end Braxton Lindsey

Freshmen who play defense seem to get on the field faster at BYU if they are in the secondary, but look for the 6-3, 230-pound Lindsey to push Tausili Akana and Nusi Taumoepeau for playing time at the rush defensive spot. A three-star recruit out of Arkansas, Lindsey had nine sacks his senior year of high school and also scored 14 touchdowns as a two-way player at Rogers High.

“Braxton has had a really solid spring, especially for a freshman coming in,” Poppinga said. “In this day and age of college football, it is really hard for a freshman to play. … But I think for what we’ve done, Braxton’s done a good job of (learning the defense), and I think he has a bright, bright future here. He’s made a ton of plays.”

Running back Devaughn Eka

Roderick has said that BYU will give superstar running back LJ Martin at least 20 carries a game, and probably five or so more touches beyond that. Next up is Sione Moa, who has been outstanding when he hasn’t been injured. Preston Rex is probably RB3 right now, especially after Jovesa Damuni was injured in spring camp.

After that, look for the 5-11, 190-pound Eka to move onto the depth chart and ahead of some guys who have been in the program for two or three years.

“Devaughn Eka has had a good spring, and I think he’s going to play for us this year,” Roderick said. “… With the skill position, it just comes back to proving to us that you deserve to play. Prove to us that you can do something that can help us win, and then it is up to us to find a way to use those guys in whatever personnel groupings we can come up with.”

A three-star recruit out of Lehi, Eka rushed for 3,276 yards and recorded 861 receiving yards in his prep career.

Safety Kennan Pula

BYU has a plethora of experience at the safety positions, led by junior Faletau Satuala and senior Raider Damuni. Sophomores Jarinn Kalama and Tommy Prassas are also in the mix. But don’t be surprised if the 6-2, 195-pound Pula doesn’t make his way onto the depth chart by the time the Cougars host Utah Tech on Sept. 5.

The athlete out of Lone Peak High, who can also play offense, like his twin brother Jaron, might be too good to keep off the field, Poppinga said two weeks ago. Kennan Pula was a four-star recruit who had offers from dozens of Power Four programs before flipping from Utah to BYU.

Kennan Pula made a one-handed interception in the 6A state football playoffs for Lone Peak that was so incredible that it went viral and was featured on ESPN’s Top Plays of the Day that day.

“Kennan Pula is another guy who has come along (quickly) that we’ve been really pleased with,” Poppinga said. In an interview with the Deseret News on April 3, Satuala said Pula was the most impressive newcomer in spring camp.

Offensive lineman Bott Mulitalo

BYU is pretty set at the tackle positions, with senior Andrew Gentry manning the right side and Washington transfer Paki Finau earning the starting spot on the left side. Look for the 6-5, 300-pound Mulitalo to get on the depth chart on one of those two sides before September rolls around.

The former four-star recruit from Lone Peak moved from defense to offense his senior season, so he is still a bit raw as an offensive lineman. But he’s massive, strong and athletic — much like former BYU tackle Kingsley Suamataia of the Kansas City Chiefs.

“Some of these new offensive linemen we got are really, really good,” said defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa. “Bott, man, he’s so strong, has great feet. He’s tough. He’s got some things to learn, but he’s already on the right track.”

Mike McCarthy will take over for Mike Tomlin as the Pittsburgh Steelers coach in 2026. The latter was a legend in the NFL and Steel City, continuing a dominant franchise in the AFC North.

Tomlin followed Bill Cowher as Steelers coach in 2007. He led the team to eight division titles and they appeared in the playoffs 13 times under his guidance.

How did the Steelers do in the first round of the NFL draft during the Tomlin era? A look at the picks and how they worked out, grade-wise.

2007

Player: Lawrence Timmons

College: Florida State

Position: LB

Grade: B

2008

Player: Rashard Mendenhall

College: Illinois

Position: RB

Grade: C+

2009

Player: Evander Hood

College: Missouri

Position: DT

Grade: C

2010

Player: Maurkice Pouncey

College: Florida

Position: C

Grade: A+

2011

Player: Cameron Heyward

College: Pitt

Position: DE

Grade: A+

2012

Player: David DeCastro

College: Stanford

Position: Guard

Grade: B+

2013

Player: Jarvis Jones

College: Georgia

Position: OLB

Grade: F

2014

Player: Ryan Shazier

College: Ohio State

Position: LB

Grade: Incomplete

2015

Player: Bud Dupree

College: Kentucky

Position: LB

Grade: B

2016

Player: Artie Burns

College: Miami

Position: CB

Grade: D-

2017

Player: T.J. Watt

College: Wisconsin

Position: LB

Grade: A+

2018

Player: Terrell Edmunds

College: Virginia Tech

Position: S

Grade: B-

2019

Player: Devin Bush

College: Michigan

Position: LB

Grade: C

2020

No pick

2021

Player: Najee Harris

College: Alabama

Position: RB

Grade: A

2022

Player: Kenny Pickett

College: Pitt

Position: QB

Grade: F

2023

Player: Broderick Jones

College: Georgia

Position: DT

Grade: C

2024

Player: Troy Fautanu

College: Washington

Position: OT

Grade: B

2025

Player: Derrick Harmon

College: Oregon

Position: DT

Grade: B-

This article originally appeared on The List Wire: Mike Tomlin's Steelers first-round draft picks reviewed

No sooner had Atletico Madrid eliminated Barcelona from the Champions League than their fans turned their attention to Saturday's Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad.

"We'll give everything to win the cup -- spirit of '96'," read a banner they unfurled, harking back to Atletico's historic La Liga and Copa double 30 years ago under Radomir Antic.

Atletico coach Diego Simeone had a similar idea to the fans. 

There was no time to celebrate downing the Catalans, even if Antoine Griezmann said he was craving "a cold beer".

"(The joy) was short-lived because Cholo (Simeone) cut us off a bit," explained the Frenchman, who is desperate to leave the club with a farewell trophy -- or ideally two.

Griezmann, 35, Atletico's all-time top goalscorer, is leaving for MLS side Orlando City at the end of the season, and Simeone said he would love for the forward to depart with his ambitions fulfilled.

"I hope that God and destiny give him what he's looking for in the time he has left in the game," said the Argentine coach.

"We'll only realise over time that we had and still have a football genius."

Griezmann flirted with an early exit from Atletico in March but with the Copa del Rey and Champions League trophies still on the line, he could not bring himself to depart.

"(Playing in the Copa final) is my dream, my objective, and I hope we can do something big," said Griezmann a few weeks ago when announcing that he would stay until the end of the season.

The forward has been one of Simeone's most reliable soldiers during his long reign in the Spanish capital.

"I've been here 14 years at the club and I never stop getting emotional," said Simeone after reaching the Champions League semis.

"I told the players when the game ended -- thank you, thank you. I'm completely grateful as a coach for the way they play, for their drive, for their heart, for the belief we have, for what we do.

"And now rest, rest, because on Saturday we have a very important match."

- Long awaited return -

Competing with giants Barcelona and Real is an uphill struggle but Simeone has led Atletico to La Liga titles in 2014 and 2021.

While winning the Champions League cannot be expected of Atletico, the club's lack of success in the Copa del Rey is a different issue, and one the Argentine coach can legitimately be criticised for.

Atletico have won the trophy 10 times, but only once under Simeone -- in 2013 against city rivals Real Madrid, which was also the last time they reached the final.

Since then, Real Sociedad, Valencia, Real Betis and Athletic Bilbao have all won the trophy. Sevilla, Alaves, Osasuna and Mallorca have finished as runners-up.

Sociedad, their opponents at La Cartuja stadium in Seville, won the 2020 edition, which was played in 2021 without fans because of the covid pandemic.

That ended a wait of over three decades for a major trophy, but winning it in front of their fans this time would be even better.

Since American coach Pellegrino Matarazzo was appointed in December, they have rediscovered their belief and resuscitated a drab season.

"I want (the fans) with us during the whole game -- before, during and after, because we want to win it with them," said La Real defender Jon Martin.

Both teams like to strike fast on the counter and it could be an intense and entertaining battle.

Ideas about Simeone's side being durable and defensive are outdated, as was shown in the thrilling European tussle with Barca, whom Atletico also eliminated in the Copa semi-final.

"Over the years we've evolved into different game approaches because of the different characteristics of our players," explained Simeone.

"We're a team that attacks better than it defends and we need to attack."

rbs/bc

Rangers' 121-HR hitter asked for release, and Texas let him go originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Texas Rangers brought aboard Mark Canha this offseason in hopes that the veteran utility man could win a spot on the MLB roster.

Instead, Canha missed out, and he hasn't made it out of Triple-A yet.

Presumably because of a clause in his contract allowing for this if he wasn't in MLB yet, Canha was granted his release on Thursday night, the Rangers announced.

Canha will become a free agent, able to sign with any team.

The 37-year old is a career .248 MLB hitter with 121 home runs out of 879 hits.

MORE: A magical no-hit bid for the Cleveland Guardians

He played in 46 MLB games for the Royals in 2025 but really struggled with just a .537 OPS.

At his peak, Canha was particularly known for his ability to hit well against left-handed pitching and play multiple positions.

It's not clear if Canha has much left in the tank this late in his career, but it seems like someone would at least give him a chance.

He has played for the A's, Mets, Tigers, Brewers, Giants and Royals.

MORE: This second-generation relief pitcher is on an absurd wins pace

Canha had yet to appear in a game this regular season, not even down at Triple-A.

Whenever a release like this happens, there's always some wondering about retirement. Canha can't have that much more baseball to play.

But at least right now, him requesting and being granted his release suggests he's looking for another chance. It just won't happen with Texas.

More MLB news:

• Explaining the absurdity of 2 MLB players named Max Muncy
• This hitter has a worse OBP than his batting average
• Mets have most depressing stat of this entire MLB season
• This slider is really good and moves the entirely wrong direction
• Sal Stewart breaks Johnny Bench's all-time Reds record

Title-chasing Manchester City face leaders Arsenal in a seismic showdown at the top of the Premier League on Sunday.

Troubled Chelsea desperately need a win against Manchester United in the race for Champions League qualification, while Liverpool are also in search of a morale boost in the Merseyside derby. 

AFP Sport looks at three talking points ahead of the weekend's action:

Arsenal must improve in 'defining' moment

Declan Rice doesn't care what the critics say about Arsenal's untimely loss of form, but the midfielder is well aware they must improve to win their "title-defining" clash with Manchester City.

Mikel Arteta's side travel to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday nursing a a six-point lead over second-placed City as they target a first English title since 2004.

Arsenal have spluttered in recent weeks, losing the League Cup final against City, suffering a shock FA Cup quarter-final defeat against second tier Southampton and crashing to a damaging loss against Bournemouth in the top-flight.

Even Arsenal's progress to the Champions League semi-finals came with an asterisk after they laboured to a nervy goalless draw that secured a 1-0 aggregate victory against Sporting Lisbon on Wednesday.

The Gunners have won just one of their last five matches in all competitions, while City are approaching top gear, having beaten Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea in their last three games.

"There's no beating around the bush. We have to perform better than we did against Bournemouth and probably Sporting as well," Rice said.

"Recently, we have made too many errors. The Etihad is the ultimate test but it's why we play this game. So, bring it on. 

"It's beautiful. I can't wait. When you're a kid, you're watching the Premier League, you see these big matches, these title-defining moments and it comes down to if you're going to be ready and how much do you want it?"

Chelsea Man Utd

Rocked by a miserable run of just one win in their last seven league games, Chelsea are on the brink of falling out of the battle for Champions League places.

Liam Rosenior's sixth-placed side have no margin for error in Saturday's game against third-placed Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.

They are seven points behind United, who lost to Leeds in their last match, and four adrift of fifth-placed Liverpool with six games to play.

A defeat against United would put Chelsea's Champions League hopes in grave danger, increasing the pressure on boss Liam Rosenior after his team were booed off following last weekend's 3-0 loss to Manchester City.

Blues midfielder Andrey Santos insisted the players are determined to turn the tide.

"We understand the fans are frustrated," he said. "We are frustrated too. When you talk about Chelsea, you talk about winning games, which we're not doing. 

"It's a difficult moment but we have to work hard and keep going. Of course we believe we can finish in a Champions League place."

Wounded Liverpool face Everton test

Unceremoniously dumped out of the Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday, Liverpool aim to make amends in their first appearance at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday.

Arne Slot's side lost 4-0 on aggregate to PSG, turning the heat up on the Liverpool boss.

Slot suffered another blow this week when France striker Hugo Ekitike was ruled out for the rest of the season with an Achilles injury.

But Reds midfielder Ryan Gravenberch knows beating Everton in the first Merseyside derby at their plush new arena would lift Liverpool's anxious fans and, more importantly, strengthen their bid to qualify for the Champions League.

"We have to pick ourselves up as Sunday is waiting," he said.

"We just want to play in the Champions League next year. We have to give it our all."

Fixtures:

Saturday (1400 GMT unless stated)

Brentford v Fulham (1130), Leeds v Wolves, Newcastle v Bournemouth, Tottenham v Brighton (1630), Chelsea v Manchester United (1900)

Sunday (1300 GMT unless stated)

Aston Villa v Sunderland, Everton v Liverpool, Nottingham Forest v Burnley, Manchester City v Arsenal (1530)

Monday

Crystal Palace v West Ham (1900)

smg/dmc

As if World Cup tickets weren't expensive enough, fans who plan to attend games at two east coast venues are faced with another looming price increase.

That would be transportation to the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, and MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.

Local authorities in each state want to charge fans a considerable amount of money just to get to the venues for World Cup games in June and July.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority first made headlines on April 6, when it announced that a roundtrip ticket to Gillette Stadium would cost a spectator $80, some four times the usual rate that individuals pay to travel to New England Patriots' NFL games.

On April 14, the Boston Host Committee announced a plan for shuttle buses to take fans to and from matches. The price is $95 per person.

There is limited parking at Gillette, with spots starting at $175 each for each of the seven World Cup matches.

Up, up and away

As bad as that sounds, the New England situation is actually small potatoes to what is transpiring in New Jersey, with roundtrip train tickets from Penn Station to the Meadowlands costing at least $100, a seven-fold increase, and as much as $150, a 12-fold increase, per person per match, according to The Athletic.

NJ Transit has discussed the possibility for a return train ticket close to or around $150, the website reported on Thursday. A regular ticket costs $12.90, the same amount that it cost fans to journey to the venue for the FIFA Club World Cup last summer.

There will be no parking at MetLife during the World Cup as FIFA will use its parking lot for security measures and logistical arrangements.

One parking option for fans is at the American Dream mall near the stadium. Parking spots will cost $225 per car and must be reserved prior to matches, according to NewJerseyNews12. Fans can use a dedicated walkway to get to the stadium.

MetLife Stadium will host eight games, including the July 19 final. Tickets for the championship have been mired in controversy for weeks as the top price for a tier one ticket cost nearly $11,000.

That has kicked off a political storm in New York and New Jersey, with politicians pointing fingers at FIFA, soccer's world governing body, and fans feeling that they are being fleeced by FIFA on the tickets, and by the local government on transportation.

The governor chimes in

New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill claimed that FIFA needs to pump in some money to help cut down costs.

“When it comes to moving people into the game at the FIFA World Cup, and FIFA intends to make about $11 billion on this, they need to defray some of this cost,” she said on the debut episode of the “Ask Governor Sherrill” call-in show on WNYC on Wednesday, April 15, the Gothamist reported.

Sherrill said that she will approve the fare increase if FIFA doesn't step in.

“I will, if that’s what it takes, because I’m not putting this on the back of New Jerseyans,” she said, according to ESPN.com.

Sherill added on a video on X: “I won’t stick N.J. commuters with that tab for years to come, that’s not fair. FIFA should pay for the rides, but if they don’t, I’m not going to let N.J. commuters be taken for one.”

And so does a senator

New York Sen. Chuck Schumer said on Monday that FIFA should help pay for World Cup transit costs.

"FIFA is set to reap nearly $11 billion from this summer's World Cup, yet New York area commuters and residents are being handed the bill," he wrote on X. "The least FIFA can do is ensure New York residents can go to the stadium without being gouged at the turnstile. I am demanding FIFA step up."

FIFA’s response

FIFA responded to Sherrill’s video by issuing a statement of its own, according to Adam Crafton of The Athletic. The organization claimed the host city had agreed to provide free or at-cost transportation to fans at all matches.

“We are quite surprised by the NJ Governor’s approach today on fan transportation. The original FIFA World Cup 2026 Host City Agreements signed in 2018 required free transportation for fans to all matches. Recognizing the financial strain this placed on the host cities, back in 2023 FIFA adjusted the Host Agreement requirements across all host cities as follows: All Match Ticket holders and accredited individuals shall be able to access transport [public or additionally planned transport] at cost to allow travel to Stadiums on match days.

“FIFA worked for years with host cities on transportation and mobility plans, including advocating for millions of dollars in federal funding to support host cities for transportation.

“FIFA World Cup will bring millions of fans to North America along with related economic impact. Many fans will travel to NYNJ to enjoy the eight matches scheduled. FIFA is not aware of any other major event previously held at NYNJ Stadium, including other major sports, global concert tours, etc., where organizers were required to pay for fan transportation.”

A final decision on the rail fare is expected to be made on Friday, April 17.

It should be noted that NJ Transit did not make many friends in New York or New Jersey on April 6, when it announced that parts of Penn Station will be closed to its commuters for four hours before the kickoff of the eight matches at MetLife, so that World Cup ticketholders can be transported to the venue. Penn Station is the busiest transportation center in North America.

Commuters using other train services such as Amtrak and the Long Island Rail Road will be allowed into the facility.

This report doesn’t include the cost of souvenirs and food at the stadiums. If it follows recent history, they are expected to be sky high.

Michael Lewis, the sixth recipient of the Clay Berling Media Career of Excellence Award in 2025, can be followed on X (formerly Twitter) and Bluesky at @Soccerwriter. His 10th soccer book, Around the World Cup in 40 Years: An American sportswriter's perspective, will be published this spring.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Troy Terry scored on a power play with 2:54 left, and the Anaheim Ducks beat the Nashville Predators 5-4 Thursday night putting them close to clinching the third seed in the Pacific Division for the postseason.

The Ducks came into the regular-season finale third in the Pacific with five different scenarios still possible to lock down the final playoff slots. This win, combined with Edmonton needing only a point against visiting Vancouver, means Anaheim likely starts the first round Monday at Edmonton.

Anaheim also took the season series against Nashville 2-1, though the Ducks go into the postseason 2-6-2 over their final 10.

Cutter Gauthier, Jackson LaCombe, Alex Killorn and Tristan Luneau scored for Anaheim. Mikael Granlund had three assists.

Steven Stamkos scored twice and had an assist for Nashville, giving him 42 goals this season. Filip Forsberg scored two goals, giving him 40, and the Predators a pair of 40-goal scorers. Luke Evangelista and Ryan Ufko added two assists apiece.

Gauthier scored 96 seconds into the game to put Anaheim up with a snap shot for his 41st of the season.

The Predators, eliminated from contention Monday night, answered with Stamkos scoring his 41st midway through the first off an assist from rookie Cole O'Hara, making his NHL debut.

Forsberg scored on a tip-in on the man advantage at 15:54 for a 2-1 lead. LaCombe's shot from near the blue line got through traffic tying it at 2 with 20.8 seconds left in the first.

Killorn's slap shot gave the Ducks a 3-2 lead at 4:33 of the second. Forsberg tied it at 14:37 with a shot from the slot, then Stamkos put Nashville up 4-3 with a wrister just outside the left crease on the power play.

Luneau tied it at 4:17 of the third scoring off the rebound of Granlund’s shot.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

Iowa Cubs

The Iowa Cubs plundered the Columbus Clippers (Guardians), 11-10 in ten innings.

Matthew Boyd started this game on a rehab assignment. He got into trouble in the second inning when he gave up three runs, but was strong otherwise. The final line on Boyd was three runs on four hits over 3.2 innings. Boyd struck out six and walked just one, which is the most positive number. He threw 64 pitches and 46 were for strikes.

Will Sanders did not pitch as well, but ended up getting the win despite blowing an 8-3 lead. Sanders pitched four innings and allowed five runs on eight hits. He struck out five and walked three. One of those three walks was intentional.

Iowa scored three runs in the top of the tenth and Ryan Jensen got the save because he only gave up two runs in the bottom of the inning. Jensen gave up two runs, one earned, on two hits over one inning. He struck out two, walked one and hit one batter.

In defense of all these pitchers, the wind was howling out to left at 15 miles per hour.

Second baseman Pedro Ramirez had a big day. First, he had an RBI single in the top of the first inning. Next, Ramirez hit a three-run home run in the second inning, his fifth on the young season already. (His career-high for a season is eight.) Finally, he knocked in the third run in the top of the tenth with an infield single. Ramirez went 4 for 6 with two steals. He had the five RBI and scored twice.

Shortstop Ben Cowles cranked a solo home run in the eighth inning. Cowles also had an RBI double in the third inning and a sacrifice fly in the tenth. Cowles went 2 for 4 with the sac fly and the three runs batted in.

Third baseman James Triantos was 2 for 6 with a double to lead off the game. He scored on the Ramirez single. Triantos also stole a base.

Left fielder Owen Miller was 2 for 5 with a double. He scored once and drove in one.

Center fielder Brett Bateman was 2 for 5. He scored twice and had one run batted in.

The Ramirez home run went 394 feet.

Ben Cowles’s RBI double.

Cowles’ home run.

Knoxville Smokies

The Knoxville Smokies stuffed and mounted the Pensacola Blue Wahoos (Marlins) on their mantel, 10-9.

Starter Nick Dean put the Smokies behind early when he gave up three runs in the bottom of the second inning. Dean’s final line was three runs on two hits over four innings. One of those two hits was a two-run home run. Dean walked two and struck out four.

The Smokies fell behind 8-2 when Erian Rodriguez got shelled for five runs in the fifth inning.

But the Smokies fought back and scored six runs in the top of the eighth to tie the game. However, Tyler Ras allowed a run in the bottom of the eighth to give Pensacola the lead back. Ras then got the win when the Smokies struck back with two runs in the top of the ninth. The final line on Ras was one run on two hits over 2.1 innings. He walked two and struck out four.

Vince Reilly pitched the bottom of the ninth and got the save. He issued a leadoff walk, but that runner was thrown out trying to steal. Reilly struck out the other two batters he faced to close out the win.

First baseman Edgar Alvarez gave the Smokies an early lead with a solo home run in the top of the second. Alvarez was 1 for 2 with three walks and two runs scored.

DH Alexis Ramírez hit a two-run single in the top of the ninth that ended up being the difference in the game. Ramírez went 1 for 4 with a walk and a sacrifice fly in the eighth, giving him three runs batted in tonight.

Right fielder Andy Garriola was 2 for 3 with an RBI double in the second inning. He was also hit by a pitch. Garriola reached on catcher’s interference and scored in the six-run eighth inning.

Some Smokies highlights from the eighth inning.

South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs won their sixth-straight game, 7-5 over the Beloit Sky Carp (Marlins).

Starter Nazier Mulé gave up just one run on four hits over 3.1 innings. Mulé walked three and struck out four.

Brayden Spears pitched the next 2.2 innings and got the win because Mulé didn’t go five innings. But Spears deserved the W because he allowed no runs on just one hit and no walks. Spears struck out three.

Kenyi Perez pitched the final two innings and picked up the save. Perez did not permit a hit or a run, but he did walk two and hit a batter while striking out two.

DH Owen Ayers homered in his fourth-straight game and his fifth on the year. Ayers’ home run came with a man on in the fourth. He was 2 for 5.

Third baseman Reginald Preciado hit a two-run double in the third inning. He was 1 for 4.

South Bend only had four hits in this game, but scored seven runs because they walked eight times and were hit by pitches twice. The Sky Carp also committed two errors which led to four unearned runs.

Ayers’ home run.

Myrtle Beach Pelicans

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans suffered a direct hit by the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers (White Sox), 9-4.

Starter Noah Edders went three innings and took the loss after allowing one run on three hits. He struck out five and walked one.

The game got out of hand when reliever Riely Hunsaker gave up five runs in the fourth inning and one more in the sixth. Hunsaker’s final line was six runs, four earned, on six hits over three innings. He walked two and struck out four.

First baseman Josiah Hartshorn went 1 for 4 with a two-run double in the bottom of the ninth. Hartshorn also walked once.

Myrtle Beach managed just four hits, but drew nine walks.

Coach Mark Few and the Gonzaga Bulldogs’ incoming transfer portal class could be gaining one of the most coveted big men available, joining Houston Cougars freshman guard/wing Isiah Harwell.

First reported by Gonzaga Bulldogs on SI’s Andy Patton, Arizona State Sun Devils freshman center Massamba Diop plans to be in Spokane, Washington, this weekend from April 18-19 for his official visit. Along with the Zags, Diop is highly considering coach Rick Pitino and the St. John’s Red Storm out of the Big East Conference. He reportedly will also go on an official visit to Queens, New York, per The New York Times’ Adam Zagoria.

The 7-1, 230-pound standout from Rufisque, Senegal, jumped on the scene in Tempe, Arizona, this past season. Diop averaged 13.6 points per game on a shooting split of 56.9 field goal percentage/30.8 three-point percentage/71.5 free throw percentage. In 33 starts for the previous coach Bobby Hurley, he grabbed 5.8 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game (ranked No. 2 in the Big 12 Conference).

Diop has the NBA build and skillset to be massively successful at the next level. He’s looking for a college destination to continue to develop. Gonzaga has been widely known for doing exactly that with big men over the course of the last 15 years or so. Just look at San Antonio Spurs’ Kelly Olynyk, Sacramento Kings’ Domantas Sabonis, Memphis Grizzlies’ Brandon Clarke, Oklahoma City Thunder’s Chet Holmgren, and many others.

As for the Zags, the coaching staff needs an immediate replacement for Graham Ike’s minutes and production. Diop, being paired with redshirt junior Braden Huff in next season’s frontcourt, is quite possibly an even more dangerous duo due to his defensive and rim-protecting intensity, plus lob threat abilities. That’s something that will balance well alongside Huff’s low-post scoring prowess.

Gonzaga has lost seven-foot sophomore center Ismaila Diagne to the portal and desperately needs size. This looks to be a win-win situation for both parties at the start of the Pac-12 Conference era.

Arden Cravalho is a Gonzaga University graduate from the Bay Area… Follow him on X @a_cravalho

The one 1st-round draft pick silver lining to Panthers' nightmare season originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Florida Panthers entered this season hoping to three-peat as Stanley Cup champions.

Instead, they ended the campaign as one of the 10-worst teams in the NHL.

It was an odd year, with injuries right from the outset paired with declines of key players. The Panthers just never found their stride.

There's pretty much just one silver lining, and it has to do with their first-round draft pick for the 2026 NHL Draft.

The Panthers traded that pick away, sort of.

When they got Seth Jones from the Chicago Blackhawks, this pick went to Chicago, top-10 protected. That means if it ends up in the top-10 picks this year, Florida keeps it (and conveys their 2027 pick to the Blackhawks instead).

At the time of the deal, it sure would've seemed like the Panthers would've been in the playoffs again and be giving the Blackhawks a pick in the back half of the first round.

Now, the Panthers have a good chance of keeping the selection and hopefully jumpstarting a bounceback season by adding a talented young player.

MORE: Maple Leafs' president brought AI trade pitches to deadline meetings

The Panthers seem most likely to end up with the eighth-best lottery odds. If that happens, the pick can end up no worse than 10th, and it would stay with Florida.

The eighth-best lottery odds include a 6.0% chance of the first pick, 6.2% chance of second, 0.2% chance of third; and then 54.4% chance of eighth, 30.0% of ninth and 3.2% of tenth.

Chicago would then be hoping the Panthers are oddly bad again in 2026-27 to give them a high-slotting pick instead of getting back to their winning ways and having it way at the end of the first round.

At least for now, it looks like Florida will get to keep this year's pick.

More NHL news:

• Sabres' playoff ticket costs are mind-blowing

• Alex Ovechkin reveals his retirement plans

• A Brady Tkachuk trade warning is in play

• Offseason trade still might be coming for Sabres

• Red Wings take over Sabres' depressing playoff status

Caleb Downs’ elite versatility makes him a top-10 lock in NFL Draft originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

In a draft class loaded with defensive talent, Caleb Downs has separated himself as the clear-cut top safety — and arguably one of the most complete defensive prospects available, regardless of position.

Downs’ case begins with versatility. Whether lined up as a deep safety, in the box, or covering the slot, he consistently impacts the game at a high level. His football IQ jumps off the film, as he diagnoses plays quickly and positions himself to make stops before they develop. That instinctive play style allows him to erase big plays while also creating opportunities for turnovers.

What truly sets Downs apart is his balance between coverage ability and physicality. In coverage, he shows fluid hips, strong anticipation, and the range to patrol sideline to sideline. He rarely looks out of position and has the ball skills to capitalize when quarterbacks make mistakes. Against the run, he is just as effective — a reliable tackler who takes smart angles and doesn’t shy away from contact.

In today’s NFL, where offenses are built to exploit mismatches, safeties who can do everything are invaluable. Downs fits that mold perfectly. He can match up with tight ends, help over the top against elite receivers, and still step into the box to stop the run. That kind of positional flexibility makes him more than just a safety — it makes him a defensive centerpiece.

Another factor boosting Downs’ draft stock is his consistency. While many prospects flash potential, Downs delivers week after week. Coaches can trust him to execute assignments, communicate on the back end, and serve as a stabilizing presence in the secondary.

The argument for a top-10 selection comes down to value. Elite safeties who can transform a defense are rare, and Downs projects as exactly that type of player. His skill set translates immediately to the next level, reducing the typical developmental curve seen with defensive backs.

For teams picking in the top 10, passing on a player with Downs’ combination of intelligence, versatility, and production could prove costly. He isn’t just the best safety in the class — he’s one of the safest and most impactful picks available.

The Minnesota Twins dropped a 9-5 game to the Boston Red Sox on Wednesday at Target Field, snapping a stretch where they had won eight of nine and looked like one of the surprising stories in baseball.

The loss moves Minnesota to 11-8, still good enough to lead the American League Central, while Boston climbed to 7-11 and sits at the bottom of the AL East.

It was a messy afternoon for the Twins, but one player who finally turned a corner was Byron Buxton, and he was honest about the last few weeks.

Buxton Opens Up on a Rough Start

Buxton opened the year in a real funk, and he admitted after the game that trying to force his swing did not help.

Byron Buxton becomes the all-time home run leader at Target Field 👏 pic.twitter.com/GcCM4rq1Vh

— MLB (@MLB) April 14, 2026

He finished the opening stretch hitting .182 with ten hits in 55 at-bats and no home runs through 14 games, an OPS under .550 that had people wondering if the slow spring had caught up with him.

"Obviously, three weeks and nine at-bats, that'll set you back a little bit," Buxton said. "I think I tried to rush my swing back within the first couple weeks. It was like, 'I know you ain't got it, but we're still going to go out here and get a hit.' But it's not that easy. It's baseball. My teammates did a good job of keeping me sane."

Buxton was referring to the layoff that started at the World Baseball Classic, where he got only a handful of at-bats for Team USA and came home without much rhythm.

He tried to force things before admitting the timing was not there yet.

The Power Finally Shows Up

Things clicked on Monday.

Buxton hit his first homer of the year against Boston, a 420-foot shot to straightaway center that also happened to be his 85th career homer at Target Field, the most by any player in the ballpark's history.

Byron Buxton AGAIN!

He's 4-for-4 with 2 homers 👏 pic.twitter.com/HEgyaD9a4x

— MLB (@MLB) April 15, 2026

He followed it up Tuesday with a four-hit night and two more home runs off Sonny Gray, making it the 18th multi-homer game of his career and pushing his slash line to .246/.306/.462 with three homers on the season.

Wednesday was quieter in a Twins loss, but the bat looks alive again, and that matters for a lineup that needs him in the middle of it.

Josh Bell is carrying a strong early line with five doubles, three home runs and 14 RBIs, and when Buxton is locked in next to him, the lineup plays different.

Why Staying in Minnesota Was the Right Call

All of this happens against the backdrop of a winter where Buxton's name floated through trade rumors even though he holds a full no-trade clause.

He wanted the front office to be louder about keeping him around.

Staying put looks like the right decision.

He is the face of the franchise, coming off a 35-homer Silver Slugger season, and at 11-8 the Twins are winning games nobody thought they could.

The early returns say Buxton made the right call by digging in with Minnesota.

In our first episode of our newest K League United Podcast K League Conversations, Matthew Binns sits down with TNT FC CEO Kim Taeryung, 

Introducing K League Conversations, A K League United Podcast dedicated to hearing from and showcasing interviews with players, club officials, media and more in order to get a more insightful picture into K League.

Our first guest is the CEO of TNT FC, Kim Taeryung. A former K League player himself, Kim's involvement in TNT FC has helped see the K5 League team develop into one of Korea's more unique clubs, where talent comes to train and develop to keep these players within football.

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After winning the K5 League last season, in addition to the prestigious Club of the Year from the Korea Football Association, Kim talks us through the season ahead and the club's position in Korean football.

All this, plus some insight into our pre-match meals, on this week's episode of From Outside The Box!

Starting center Jarrett Allen has been able to practice two straight days without limitation and Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson says there are no restrictions. But Allen admitted Thursday — about 48 hours before Game 1 — that his problematic right knee is still not full strength. “A little pain,” Allen said following practice. “It’s not going to go away immediately. That’s something that’s going to have to linger for a while. It’s enough where I can play at a high level, I believe.”

Cleveland Plain Dealer

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Jarrett Allen was able to practice two straight days with no restrictions

“When the adrenaline starts going, the pain goes away,” Allen said. “You can say that for everybody. When you’re scoring the ball, when the crowd’s yelling, things start to stop hurting, things start to just go from your mind and you’re so focused on the next play.”

Cleveland Plain Dealer

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “You can say that for everybody. When you’re scoring …