Rachin Ravindra — T20 cricket is about pushing your team forward and forgetting about your wicket Rachin Ravindra may not have featured for Kolkata Knight Riders so far in this edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), but the New Zealand all-rounder insists patience, perspective and constant evolution remain central to his approach as he navigates selection competition, the demands of three-format cricket and the rapidly shifting T20 landscape.On waiting for his chance at KKR“I wouldn’t ever really call it frustrating. First of all, it’s great to be part of a new franchise and it’s such a great crew to be with. I’m enjoying my time here.“For me, it’s understanding that the team is out there and I’m supporting them and I’m doing my best job to, one, help them prepare and, two, help us win games. And whether that’s part of the starting 12 or whether that’s on the bench or whatever it looks like. And that to me is important.ALSO READ | 14 defeats in 22 matches: Does CSK have a captaincy conundrum?“As soon as you start to feel frustrated and stuff like that, you naturally think a little bit more negative about things. So for me, it’s just about getting better.“Obviously, you always want to play games, but I’ve played a lot of cricket of late and even if I’m not playing, it’s about contributing to the team. I realise there are a lot of talented cricketers in this team. And if you’re missing out to, say, Finn Allen and Cameron Green, or Sunil Narine, or the likes of them, you have to understand that those are class players and they obviously make up the structure of the team. So, it doesn’t bother me too much.”On back-to-back heartbreak in ICC finals against India“It probably still hurts. I think it always is going to. And there are times I think back and hindsight is a great thing. So there’s a million things that go through your head and little decisions you feel could have made a difference. Maybe, it doesn’t. Obviously, it’s hurtful to have it two years in a row and we were a lot closer in the Champions Trophy final.“Both games were extremely disappointing. But again, that’s cricket. There’s always going to be a winner and a loser. And India is a very, very good team, especially in those conditions of Dubai and in India, you know, it is a quality unit which has played so much cricket here.Learning from setbacks: Ravindra feels every loss is an opportunity to learn and improve as a player. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini Learning from setbacks: Ravindra feels every loss is an opportunity to learn and improve as a player. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini “There are always learnings about yourself — about batting, bowling — and also about clarity and decision making under pressure. And there’s all those things. As a team, I’m sure we’ve had a bit of time off, and we’ll come together later as a T20 group, especially later in the year, to discuss that.“The crazy thing about cricket is that it always moves on, right? I think that’s always going to be in the back of your head. But there’s always the next challenge. And that’s great. It means you can’t really dwell on what has happened. Obviously, like I said, take what you can and move on. That World Cup was a great learning curve for me and I have brought some brilliant learnings to Kolkata.”On dealing with pressure, setbacks and perspective“It’s a question that we’re all still trying to work out. Mostly for me, I’ve got some great mentors around me, and I lean on them, especially in that New Zealand setup. And I played under some brilliant captains. I’ve got Kane Williamson there, Mitchell Santner, all these guys to bounce ideas off.“I speak to Kane a lot and then read, do a little bit of self-discovery for myself. And then it’s about being patient. It might seem like a small career and only a period of time in our lives, but for me, it’s calmness and patience that matters. I genuinely believe that everything happens for a reason. If you don’t believe that, then it’s hard to be sane, you know.“As a player, you also need to accept that failure is part of our game. And it depends on what you see failure like, right? Is failure just not scoring runs? It’s probably not that. We all want to score runs. I think Rahul Dravid said this a while ago that, ‘You’re going to fail more than you succeed, especially as a batter…’ALSO READ | The heist of Mullanpur: KKR, PBKS clash with memories of last season’s humdinger still afresh“So, you have got to accept that you’re going to come to terms with that. But again, not scoring runs isn’t the failure. The failure is not consistently trying to improve yourself. And if you get too caught up in that, that’s when it stacks up and you’re trying to prove to others who you are and trying to show this and that.“But that’s not really me. I’m just here. Obviously, I love enjoying the game and I love trying to get better each and every time. That’s important. That’s something I can measure it all by. And all the other stuff and noise doesn’t really matter because, again, you’re not here just for personal accolades. It’s a team game, although you want to do as well as you can. But as soon as you start leaning too much towards that, you’re in trouble.“And if I look back to the Champions Trophy game against Bangladesh last year, I was very lucky to walk away with just a little scar leading up to the game (during the tri-series in Pakistan).“But I was very lucky. Otherwise, an inch down and my career would have probably been over as my eye would be gone. So, these things obviously happen and you never want them to happen, but they give you perspective.“Perspective is probably the biggest thing in our game — realising we get to do what we love for a living. And that’s important. Then there are so many things that happen to get us to this stage. So that’s at least how I see it and it helps me deal with it all.”Switching between formats: Over the last two years, Ravindra has been a constant presence for the Kiwis across the three formats. | Photo Credit: K. Bhagya Prakash Switching between formats: Over the last two years, Ravindra has been a constant presence for the Kiwis across the three formats. | Photo Credit: K. Bhagya Prakash On adapting to evolving T20 demands“I think that’s going to be the ever-evolving thing about our game, right? I think we see how T20 is evolving. And if you’re not able to evolve as a player, then you’re going to be left behind.“There are plenty of guys who are in that mould who can consistently do it. You only look at Virat Kohli, who does the same thing, he sort of takes his time, but has also transformed his T20 game over the last two or three years.“So, the beauty is if the ability and skill is there, then you can transfer it across formats. And that, to me, is a challenge. I love playing all three formats. It’s a brilliant challenge. You love Test cricket, it’s beautiful. But then this part’s the freedom, right?“And you’ve almost got to give away the notion of your wicket. In the other formats, your pride lies in spending so much time in the crease. And I’m naturally a strokemaker, so that does help. But I think when you come to this format (T20), it’s about how you can push the team forward and forget about your wicket.“And also little technical changes which allow you to do that. But that’s always going to be the challenge for the all-format cricketer.”On managing workload across formats“It’s always going to be a challenge. So, if you look at it this way, me missing out on a couple of games here is actually not the worst thing for my game. We’ve got Chris Donaldson, strength & conditioning coach from New Zealand here as well. He’s an amazing guy.“On most days, I am in the gym and running on game days and stuff, which helps build that over time, makes me prepared for what’s to come. And also the quality of training you can get here in India is outstanding, with Watto (Shane Watson), Abhishek Nayar around. So we’ve got a great crew, I am learning from them as well. It allows you to have those little training blocks when you think you might not have.“That’s always going to be a challenge in terms of finding rest because since the ODI World Cup 2023, I really haven’t had a break. I’ve been very grateful for it because I’ve been able to play three formats and also franchise cricket around the world. But I think that there is a time where you probably do need to have a mental break and relax.“I’ll get that at the end of The Hundred this year, sort of mid-to-late August until India comes to New Zealand. I’ve got a good almost two months to rest up and work on a few things and work on my body.”Learning from the best: Ravindra cherished the support from the world’s best at the IPL. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini Learning from the best: Ravindra cherished the support from the world’s best at the IPL. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini On learning from multiple coaches and having New Zealand teammates around“It’s ultimately up to the player. I think it’s awesome having all these coaches, who are very good at what they do. They’re able to filter through what they say and it’s not just information after information. Then it’s on us as players to take what we need and make that our own. You never listen to everything blindly and you also never ignore everything because these guys are here to help you.“They are different people, and earlier in my career, especially in the IPL, the amount of information could feel overwhelming because there’s stats, analysis, match-ups and so much data. But with experience, you get better at filtering what works for you.“And it’s obviously nice to have the Kiwi guys here. We hang out a lot and when you’re in a long tournament away from home, it’s nice to have familiar faces around you. That’s what makes the New Zealand environment so good — we’re all such good mates.”Published on Apr 06, 2026 #Rachin #Ravindra #T20 #cricket #pushing #team #forgetting #wicket

Rachin Ravindra — T20 cricket is about pushing your team forward and forgetting about your wicket
Rachin Ravindra may not have featured for Kolkata Knight Riders so far in this edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), but the New Zealand all-rounder insists patience, perspective and constant evolution remain central to his approach as he navigates selection competition, the demands of three-format cricket and the rapidly shifting T20 landscape.
On waiting for his chance at KKR
“I wouldn’t ever really call it frustrating. First of all, it’s great to be part of a new franchise and it’s such a great crew to be with. I’m enjoying my time here.
“For me, it’s understanding that the team is out there and I’m supporting them and I’m doing my best job to, one, help them prepare and, two, help us win games. And whether that’s part of the starting 12 or whether that’s on the bench or whatever it looks like. And that to me is important.
ALSO READ | 14 defeats in 22 matches: Does CSK have a captaincy conundrum?
“As soon as you start to feel frustrated and stuff like that, you naturally think a little bit more negative about things. So for me, it’s just about getting better.
“Obviously, you always want to play games, but I’ve played a lot of cricket of late and even if I’m not playing, it’s about contributing to the team. I realise there are a lot of talented cricketers in this team. And if you’re missing out to, say, Finn Allen and Cameron Green, or Sunil Narine, or the likes of them, you have to understand that those are class players and they obviously make up the structure of the team. So, it doesn’t bother me too much.”
On back-to-back heartbreak in ICC finals against India
“It probably still hurts. I think it always is going to. And there are times I think back and hindsight is a great thing. So there’s a million things that go through your head and little decisions you feel could have made a difference. Maybe, it doesn’t. Obviously, it’s hurtful to have it two years in a row and we were a lot closer in the Champions Trophy final.
“Both games were extremely disappointing. But again, that’s cricket. There’s always going to be a winner and a loser. And India is a very, very good team, especially in those conditions of Dubai and in India, you know, it is a quality unit which has played so much cricket here.
Learning from setbacks: Ravindra feels every loss is an opportunity to learn and improve as a player. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini
Learning from setbacks: Ravindra feels every loss is an opportunity to learn and improve as a player. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini
“There are always learnings about yourself — about batting, bowling — and also about clarity and decision making under pressure. And there’s all those things. As a team, I’m sure we’ve had a bit of time off, and we’ll come together later as a T20 group, especially later in the year, to discuss that.
“The crazy thing about cricket is that it always moves on, right? I think that’s always going to be in the back of your head. But there’s always the next challenge. And that’s great. It means you can’t really dwell on what has happened. Obviously, like I said, take what you can and move on. That World Cup was a great learning curve for me and I have brought some brilliant learnings to Kolkata.”
On dealing with pressure, setbacks and perspective
“It’s a question that we’re all still trying to work out. Mostly for me, I’ve got some great mentors around me, and I lean on them, especially in that New Zealand setup. And I played under some brilliant captains. I’ve got Kane Williamson there, Mitchell Santner, all these guys to bounce ideas off.
“I speak to Kane a lot and then read, do a little bit of self-discovery for myself. And then it’s about being patient. It might seem like a small career and only a period of time in our lives, but for me, it’s calmness and patience that matters. I genuinely believe that everything happens for a reason. If you don’t believe that, then it’s hard to be sane, you know.
“As a player, you also need to accept that failure is part of our game. And it depends on what you see failure like, right? Is failure just not scoring runs? It’s probably not that. We all want to score runs. I think Rahul Dravid said this a while ago that, ‘You’re going to fail more than you succeed, especially as a batter…’
ALSO READ | The heist of Mullanpur: KKR, PBKS clash with memories of last season’s humdinger still afresh
“So, you have got to accept that you’re going to come to terms with that. But again, not scoring runs isn’t the failure. The failure is not consistently trying to improve yourself. And if you get too caught up in that, that’s when it stacks up and you’re trying to prove to others who you are and trying to show this and that.
“But that’s not really me. I’m just here. Obviously, I love enjoying the game and I love trying to get better each and every time. That’s important. That’s something I can measure it all by. And all the other stuff and noise doesn’t really matter because, again, you’re not here just for personal accolades. It’s a team game, although you want to do as well as you can. But as soon as you start leaning too much towards that, you’re in trouble.
“And if I look back to the Champions Trophy game against Bangladesh last year, I was very lucky to walk away with just a little scar leading up to the game (during the tri-series in Pakistan).
“But I was very lucky. Otherwise, an inch down and my career would have probably been over as my eye would be gone. So, these things obviously happen and you never want them to happen, but they give you perspective.
“Perspective is probably the biggest thing in our game — realising we get to do what we love for a living. And that’s important. Then there are so many things that happen to get us to this stage. So that’s at least how I see it and it helps me deal with it all.”
Switching between formats: Over the last two years, Ravindra has been a constant presence for the Kiwis across the three formats. | Photo Credit: K. Bhagya Prakash
Switching between formats: Over the last two years, Ravindra has been a constant presence for the Kiwis across the three formats. | Photo Credit: K. Bhagya Prakash
On adapting to evolving T20 demands
“I think that’s going to be the ever-evolving thing about our game, right? I think we see how T20 is evolving. And if you’re not able to evolve as a player, then you’re going to be left behind.
“There are plenty of guys who are in that mould who can consistently do it. You only look at Virat Kohli, who does the same thing, he sort of takes his time, but has also transformed his T20 game over the last two or three years.
“So, the beauty is if the ability and skill is there, then you can transfer it across formats. And that, to me, is a challenge. I love playing all three formats. It’s a brilliant challenge. You love Test cricket, it’s beautiful. But then this part’s the freedom, right?
“And you’ve almost got to give away the notion of your wicket. In the other formats, your pride lies in spending so much time in the crease. And I’m naturally a strokemaker, so that does help. But I think when you come to this format (T20), it’s about how you can push the team forward and forget about your wicket.
“And also little technical changes which allow you to do that. But that’s always going to be the challenge for the all-format cricketer.”
On managing workload across formats
“It’s always going to be a challenge. So, if you look at it this way, me missing out on a couple of games here is actually not the worst thing for my game. We’ve got Chris Donaldson, strength & conditioning coach from New Zealand here as well. He’s an amazing guy.
“On most days, I am in the gym and running on game days and stuff, which helps build that over time, makes me prepared for what’s to come. And also the quality of training you can get here in India is outstanding, with Watto (Shane Watson), Abhishek Nayar around. So we’ve got a great crew, I am learning from them as well. It allows you to have those little training blocks when you think you might not have.
“That’s always going to be a challenge in terms of finding rest because since the ODI World Cup 2023, I really haven’t had a break. I’ve been very grateful for it because I’ve been able to play three formats and also franchise cricket around the world. But I think that there is a time where you probably do need to have a mental break and relax.
“I’ll get that at the end of The Hundred this year, sort of mid-to-late August until India comes to New Zealand. I’ve got a good almost two months to rest up and work on a few things and work on my body.”
Learning from the best: Ravindra cherished the support from the world’s best at the IPL. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini
Learning from the best: Ravindra cherished the support from the world’s best at the IPL. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini
On learning from multiple coaches and having New Zealand teammates around
“It’s ultimately up to the player. I think it’s awesome having all these coaches, who are very good at what they do. They’re able to filter through what they say and it’s not just information after information. Then it’s on us as players to take what we need and make that our own. You never listen to everything blindly and you also never ignore everything because these guys are here to help you.
“They are different people, and earlier in my career, especially in the IPL, the amount of information could feel overwhelming because there’s stats, analysis, match-ups and so much data. But with experience, you get better at filtering what works for you.
“And it’s obviously nice to have the Kiwi guys here. We hang out a lot and when you’re in a long tournament away from home, it’s nice to have familiar faces around you. That’s what makes the New Zealand environment so good — we’re all such good mates.”
Published on Apr 06, 2026
#Rachin #Ravindra #T20 #cricket #pushing #team #forgetting #wicket

Rachin Ravindra may not have featured for Kolkata Knight Riders so far in this edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), but the New Zealand all-rounder insists patience, perspective and constant evolution remain central to his approach as he navigates selection competition, the demands of three-format cricket and the rapidly shifting T20 landscape.

On waiting for his chance at KKR

“I wouldn’t ever really call it frustrating. First of all, it’s great to be part of a new franchise and it’s such a great crew to be with. I’m enjoying my time here.

“For me, it’s understanding that the team is out there and I’m supporting them and I’m doing my best job to, one, help them prepare and, two, help us win games. And whether that’s part of the starting 12 or whether that’s on the bench or whatever it looks like. And that to me is important.

ALSO READ | 14 defeats in 22 matches: Does CSK have a captaincy conundrum?

“As soon as you start to feel frustrated and stuff like that, you naturally think a little bit more negative about things. So for me, it’s just about getting better.

“Obviously, you always want to play games, but I’ve played a lot of cricket of late and even if I’m not playing, it’s about contributing to the team. I realise there are a lot of talented cricketers in this team. And if you’re missing out to, say, Finn Allen and Cameron Green, or Sunil Narine, or the likes of them, you have to understand that those are class players and they obviously make up the structure of the team. So, it doesn’t bother me too much.”

On back-to-back heartbreak in ICC finals against India

“It probably still hurts. I think it always is going to. And there are times I think back and hindsight is a great thing. So there’s a million things that go through your head and little decisions you feel could have made a difference. Maybe, it doesn’t. Obviously, it’s hurtful to have it two years in a row and we were a lot closer in the Champions Trophy final.

“Both games were extremely disappointing. But again, that’s cricket. There’s always going to be a winner and a loser. And India is a very, very good team, especially in those conditions of Dubai and in India, you know, it is a quality unit which has played so much cricket here.

Learning from setbacks: Ravindra feels every loss is an opportunity to learn and improve as a player.
| Photo Credit:
Emmanual Yogini

lightbox-info

Learning from setbacks: Ravindra feels every loss is an opportunity to learn and improve as a player.
| Photo Credit:
Emmanual Yogini

“There are always learnings about yourself — about batting, bowling — and also about clarity and decision making under pressure. And there’s all those things. As a team, I’m sure we’ve had a bit of time off, and we’ll come together later as a T20 group, especially later in the year, to discuss that.

“The crazy thing about cricket is that it always moves on, right? I think that’s always going to be in the back of your head. But there’s always the next challenge. And that’s great. It means you can’t really dwell on what has happened. Obviously, like I said, take what you can and move on. That World Cup was a great learning curve for me and I have brought some brilliant learnings to Kolkata.”

On dealing with pressure, setbacks and perspective

“It’s a question that we’re all still trying to work out. Mostly for me, I’ve got some great mentors around me, and I lean on them, especially in that New Zealand setup. And I played under some brilliant captains. I’ve got Kane Williamson there, Mitchell Santner, all these guys to bounce ideas off.

“I speak to Kane a lot and then read, do a little bit of self-discovery for myself. And then it’s about being patient. It might seem like a small career and only a period of time in our lives, but for me, it’s calmness and patience that matters. I genuinely believe that everything happens for a reason. If you don’t believe that, then it’s hard to be sane, you know.

“As a player, you also need to accept that failure is part of our game. And it depends on what you see failure like, right? Is failure just not scoring runs? It’s probably not that. We all want to score runs. I think Rahul Dravid said this a while ago that, ‘You’re going to fail more than you succeed, especially as a batter…’

ALSO READ | The heist of Mullanpur: KKR, PBKS clash with memories of last season’s humdinger still afresh

“So, you have got to accept that you’re going to come to terms with that. But again, not scoring runs isn’t the failure. The failure is not consistently trying to improve yourself. And if you get too caught up in that, that’s when it stacks up and you’re trying to prove to others who you are and trying to show this and that.

“But that’s not really me. I’m just here. Obviously, I love enjoying the game and I love trying to get better each and every time. That’s important. That’s something I can measure it all by. And all the other stuff and noise doesn’t really matter because, again, you’re not here just for personal accolades. It’s a team game, although you want to do as well as you can. But as soon as you start leaning too much towards that, you’re in trouble.

“And if I look back to the Champions Trophy game against Bangladesh last year, I was very lucky to walk away with just a little scar leading up to the game (during the tri-series in Pakistan).

“But I was very lucky. Otherwise, an inch down and my career would have probably been over as my eye would be gone. So, these things obviously happen and you never want them to happen, but they give you perspective.

“Perspective is probably the biggest thing in our game — realising we get to do what we love for a living. And that’s important. Then there are so many things that happen to get us to this stage. So that’s at least how I see it and it helps me deal with it all.”

Switching between formats: Over the last two years, Ravindra has been a constant presence for the Kiwis across the three formats.
| Photo Credit:
K. Bhagya Prakash

lightbox-info

Switching between formats: Over the last two years, Ravindra has been a constant presence for the Kiwis across the three formats.
| Photo Credit:
K. Bhagya Prakash

On adapting to evolving T20 demands

“I think that’s going to be the ever-evolving thing about our game, right? I think we see how T20 is evolving. And if you’re not able to evolve as a player, then you’re going to be left behind.

“There are plenty of guys who are in that mould who can consistently do it. You only look at Virat Kohli, who does the same thing, he sort of takes his time, but has also transformed his T20 game over the last two or three years.

“So, the beauty is if the ability and skill is there, then you can transfer it across formats. And that, to me, is a challenge. I love playing all three formats. It’s a brilliant challenge. You love Test cricket, it’s beautiful. But then this part’s the freedom, right?

“And you’ve almost got to give away the notion of your wicket. In the other formats, your pride lies in spending so much time in the crease. And I’m naturally a strokemaker, so that does help. But I think when you come to this format (T20), it’s about how you can push the team forward and forget about your wicket.

“And also little technical changes which allow you to do that. But that’s always going to be the challenge for the all-format cricketer.”

On managing workload across formats

“It’s always going to be a challenge. So, if you look at it this way, me missing out on a couple of games here is actually not the worst thing for my game. We’ve got Chris Donaldson, strength & conditioning coach from New Zealand here as well. He’s an amazing guy.

“On most days, I am in the gym and running on game days and stuff, which helps build that over time, makes me prepared for what’s to come. And also the quality of training you can get here in India is outstanding, with Watto (Shane Watson), Abhishek Nayar around. So we’ve got a great crew, I am learning from them as well. It allows you to have those little training blocks when you think you might not have.

“That’s always going to be a challenge in terms of finding rest because since the ODI World Cup 2023, I really haven’t had a break. I’ve been very grateful for it because I’ve been able to play three formats and also franchise cricket around the world. But I think that there is a time where you probably do need to have a mental break and relax.

“I’ll get that at the end of The Hundred this year, sort of mid-to-late August until India comes to New Zealand. I’ve got a good almost two months to rest up and work on a few things and work on my body.”

Learning from the best: Ravindra cherished the support from the world’s best at the IPL.
| Photo Credit:
Emmanual Yogini

lightbox-info

Learning from the best: Ravindra cherished the support from the world’s best at the IPL.
| Photo Credit:
Emmanual Yogini

On learning from multiple coaches and having New Zealand teammates around

“It’s ultimately up to the player. I think it’s awesome having all these coaches, who are very good at what they do. They’re able to filter through what they say and it’s not just information after information. Then it’s on us as players to take what we need and make that our own. You never listen to everything blindly and you also never ignore everything because these guys are here to help you.

“They are different people, and earlier in my career, especially in the IPL, the amount of information could feel overwhelming because there’s stats, analysis, match-ups and so much data. But with experience, you get better at filtering what works for you.

“And it’s obviously nice to have the Kiwi guys here. We hang out a lot and when you’re in a long tournament away from home, it’s nice to have familiar faces around you. That’s what makes the New Zealand environment so good — we’re all such good mates.”

Published on Apr 06, 2026

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#Rachin #Ravindra #T20 #cricket #pushing #team #forgetting #wicket

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Deadspin | Soaring Brewers, struggling Red Sox to clash in Boston <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28658351.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28658351.jpg" alt="MLB: Milwaukee Brewers at Kansas City Royals-Game One" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 4, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Milwaukee Brewers left fielder Christian Yelich (22) celebrates in the dugout after scoring during the first inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images  </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>If the Boston Red Sox are going to break out of their season-opening funk this week, the turnaround will need to start against the Milwaukee Brewers, who are tied for the best record in baseball.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>The teams will open their lone interleague series of the season on Monday night, playing the first of three games in Boston.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Milwaukee, which won an MLB-best 97 games a season ago, has won its first three series and sits at 7-2 after securing an 8-5 victory Sunday over the Kansas City Royals. The Brewers have yet to play a National League team.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Boston is in opposite shape at 2-7, having fallen 8-6 to the San Diego Padres on Sunday in the rubber game of its home-opening series.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>On Sunday, the Brewers never trailed. Gary Sanchez hit his team-leading third home run — a two-out, two-run shot in the first inning — to help them jump to a 3-0 lead, while Christian Yelich had a pair of hits, including an RBI triple in the first.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>“It’s relentless,” Milwaukee manager Pat Murphy said of his offense. “These guys know that two outs means you’re two-thirds done with the inning, and that’s it.”</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>The Brewers’ Sunday lineup did not include Massachusetts native Sal Frelick, who exited the second game of a Saturday doubleheader with tightness on his left side.</p> </section><section id="section-8"> <p>“He could have played,” Murphy said. “Think he’ll be better (Monday).”</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>Brandon Woodruff (1-0, 3.60 ERA) will start the series opener after allowing two runs on four hits and striking out six in five innings on Tuesday in a 6-2 win against the Tampa Bay Rays.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-10"> <p>“My one and only goal this year is being healthy and being available,” said Woodruff, who returned from a two-year rehab following shoulder surgery last July and finished 7-2 with a 3.20 ERA in 12 starts.</p> </section> <section id="section-11"> <p>Woodruff has made just one career start against the Red Sox, striking out nine and allowing one run in 6 1/3 innings on July 29, 2022. He got the win in the 4-1 Milwaukee victory.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>As for the Red Sox, they lost a 4-0 lead they built after three innings against the Padres on Sunday and have lost back-to-back games and seven of eight since their Opening Day victory on the road against the Cincinnati Reds.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>“There were some signs that were positive (and) others that stayed the same, but you’ve got to stay the course. You cannot overreact over this series,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora said. “You have to play better.”</p> </section><section id="section-14"> <p>Wilyer Abreu — who has a .429 batting average and is tied with Christian Walker of the Houston Astros to lead MLB with eight extra-base hits — and Masataka Yoshida each had three hits on Sunday. But it was an all-too-familiar refrain for the Red Sox, who are off to their worst start since 2019. </p> </section><section id="section-15"> <p>“We didn’t expect to lose this many games,” outfielder Roman Anthony said. “When you take the field as a competitor and as a team, you expect to win every day. … We need to find a way to just bring more energy and be better. This is unacceptable.”</p> </section><section id="section-16"> <p>After posting a career-best 3.35 ERA in 2025, Brayan Bello (0-1, 9.64 ERA) will take the mound for Boston on Monday after struggling in his season debut last Tuesday against the Astros. He was touched for six runs (five earned) on eight hits and three two-out walks in 4 2/3 innings and took the loss in the 9-2 game.</p> </section><section id="section-17"> <p>Bello allowed that many runs in only one of his 29 appearances (28 starts) last season — a 10-4 loss to the Atlanta Braves on May 18 in which he allowed seven runs, all earned.</p> </section><section id="section-18"> <p>“It didn’t go the way I expected,” he said after he first start of 2026. “If I let them put the ball in play or any other outcome, things might’ve been different.”</p> </section><section id="section-19"> <p>The 26-year-old is 0-1 with a 3.95 ERA in three career appearances (two starts) against Milwaukee.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-20"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #Soaring #Brewers #struggling #Red #Sox #clash #Boston

Deadspin | Padres’ offense waking up just in time as torrid Pirates await <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28664958.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28664958.jpg" alt="MLB: San Diego Padres at Boston Red Sox" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 5, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Manny MacHado (13) celebrates his three run home run against the Boston Red Sox with /right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) during the fifth inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images  </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>The San Diego Padres are starting to improve following a rough start to the season as they head to Pittsburgh to face the red-hot Pirates on Monday night in the opener of a three-game set.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>The Padres won a series for the first time this season when they beat the Red Sox in Boston in back-to-back games, including 8-6 on Sunday.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>San Diego’s anemic offense, which entered the day with a major-league-worst .190 batting average and .553 OPS, woke up thanks to Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts and Jackson Merrill, who combined for eight of the Padres’ 12 hits in the Sunday victory.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>The Padres will need the production to continue on Monday when they send German Marquez (0-1, 12.00 ERA) to the mound to oppose fellow right-hander Bubba Chandler (0-0, 0.00) as San Diego attempts to stop Pittsburgh’s five-game winning streak.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Machado hit his first home run of the season Sunday as the Padres scored the most runs they’ve had in a game this season. It was only the second time in nine games that San Diego scored more than three runs in a contest.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Both of those games have come during this stretch of three wins in four games.</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>“Just to see Jackson go 3-for-5, Manny go 2-for-4, and Bogaerts go 3-for-3, if we get those guys moving the baseball the way they did today, we’re going to win a lot of baseball games,” Padres manager Craig Stammen said on Sunday.</p> </section><section id="section-8"> <p>Marquez could use the offensive backup following a rough first start last Tuesday against San Francisco. He was pulled after three innings after allowing four runs on eight hits, including a pair of home runs, and one walk. He struck out one on 65 pitches in a 9-3 loss.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-9"> <p>Marquez has had success in his career against the Pirates, however, going 6-1 with a 1.89 ERA in seven starts.</p> </section> <section id="section-10"> <p>Chandler will make his sixth career start and first ever against San Diego.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>His first start of the season had mostly positive results with one glaring issue — walks. Chandler tossed 4 1/3 hitless innings, allowed only one unearned run and struck out six in a no-decision in an 8-3 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday. But he walked six and threw 81 pitches.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>Chandler touched 100 mph on his fastball but wasn’t happy with his command.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>“I just wasn’t executing,” he said after the start. “The confidence was probably not where it needed to be. We had a great lead. My job is to go out there and three up, three down, quick innings, let our boys get back in and hit. I think as the game went on, it was more about trying to go do something, rather than just going out there and doing it.”</p> </section><section id="section-14"> <p>Thanks largely to offseason acquisitions Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn, and a strong offensive start by Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh has shown the power at the plate it lacked last season with 12 home runs in nine games.</p> </section><section id="section-15"> <p>The Pirates also are seeing offensive production from welcome sources such as Nick Yorke, who started at third base a day after infielder Jared Triolo was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right knee injury. </p> </section><section id="section-16"> <p>Yorke delivered the walk-off hit in Saturday’s victory over the Orioles, and had another hit on Sunday. As a corresponding move with Triolo’s IL placement, Pittsburgh recalled outfielder Billy Cook from Triple-A Indianapolis.</p> </section><section id="section-17"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Padres #offense #waking #time #torrid #Pirates #await

#Deadspin #Guardians #start #time #Tuesday #moved #due #cold">

Deadspin | Guardians’ start time on Tuesday moved up due to cold Apr 3, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; A general view as fans wait to enter before the home opener between the Guardians and the Chicago Cubs at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images The Guardians moved the start time of Tuesday’s game against the Kansas City Royals from 6:10 to 1:10 p.m. ET due to expected frigid temperatures in Cleveland. Fans who are unable to attend the daytime start can exchange their tickets for another eligible game. The Guardians (6-4) open the series with the Royals (4-5) on Monday at 6:10 p.m. ET. The Weather Channel’s forecast for Tuesday in Cleveland includes potential flurries or snow showers with lows in the mid-20s. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Guardians #start #time #Tuesday #moved #due #cold

mwasimuddin125 0

Apr 3, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; A general view as fans wait to enter before the home opener between the Guardians and the Chicago Cubs at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

The Guardians moved the start time of Tuesday’s game against the Kansas City Royals from 6:10 to 1:10 p.m. ET due to expected frigid temperatures in Cleveland.

Fans who are unable to attend the daytime start can exchange their tickets for another eligible game.

The Guardians (6-4) open the series with the Royals (4-5) on Monday at 6:10 p.m. ET.

The Weather Channel’s forecast for Tuesday in Cleveland includes potential flurries or snow showers with lows in the mid-20s.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Guardians #start #time #Tuesday #moved #due #cold">Deadspin | Guardians’ start time on Tuesday moved up due to cold

Apr 3, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; A general view as fans wait to enter before the home opener between the Guardians and the Chicago Cubs at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

The Guardians moved the start time of Tuesday’s game against the Kansas City Royals from 6:10 to 1:10 p.m. ET due to expected frigid temperatures in Cleveland.

Fans who are unable to attend the daytime start can exchange their tickets for another eligible game.

The Guardians (6-4) open the series with the Royals (4-5) on Monday at 6:10 p.m. ET.

The Weather Channel’s forecast for Tuesday in Cleveland includes potential flurries or snow showers with lows in the mid-20s.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Guardians #start #time #Tuesday #moved #due #cold

Stan Wawrinka bid farewell to the Monte Carlo Masters as the 2014 champion fell 7-5, 7-5 to Sebastian Baez in the first round on Monday.

The 41-year-old three-time Grand Slam winner will retire from tennis at the end of the season and entered the main draw in Monaco as a wildcard 20 years on from his debut at the tournament.

The Swiss won his sole 1000-level title 12 years ago in the principality when he defeated his compatriot Roger Federer.

“It was a long time ago, but of course I remember it, it was exceptional,” Wawrinka said on-court of his 2014 victory after tournament organisers showed a video homage to him.

“To have the chance to play this final here, with this exceptional tournament, and to win it in addition, will always be one of my best memories of my career.”

Heading into his round of 64 meeting with 65th-ranked Argentinian Baez, Wawrinka’s only match since losing to eventual winner Daniil Medvedev in the last 16 at February’s Dubai Open was a three-set defeat to then-World No. 348 Matteo Martineau at a challenger event on clay in Naples late last month.

Despite that, Wawrinka raced out of the blocks on Court Rainier III as he took a 4-1 lead in the opening set. Baez hit back to level scores at 5-5 before pouncing on Wawrinka’s serve in the 11th game to get ahead.

Wawrinka then lost his opening service game of the second frame as Baez took control of the match, eventually closing out victory in one hour and 47 minutes after weathering a stirring late comeback by the former World No. 3.

As reward for his win, Baez will next face World No. 1 and reigning Monte Carlo champion Carlos Alcaraz in the second round.

Elsewhere, Andrey Rublev navigated his way through a topsy-turvy opener as the 13th seed beat Nuno Borges 6-4, 1-6, 6-1 to set up a round of 32 meeting with Zizou Bergs.

World No. 47 Bergs booked his spot thanks to a 6-4, 6-3 victory against 37-year-old Adrian Mannarino. Arthur Rinderknech eased past 12th seed Karen Khachanov 7-5, 6-2 and will next play the winner of the meeting between Joao Fonseca and Gabriel Diallo.

Published on Apr 06, 2026

#Stan #Wawrinka #bids #farewell #Monte #Carlo #Masters #firstround #exit">

Stan Wawrinka bids farewell to Monte Carlo Masters after first-round exit Stan Wawrinka bid farewell to the Monte Carlo Masters as the 2014 champion fell 7-5, 7-5 to Sebastian Baez in the first round on Monday.The 41-year-old three-time Grand Slam winner will retire from tennis at the end of the season and entered the main draw in Monaco as a wildcard 20 years on from his debut at the tournament.The Swiss won his sole 1000-level title 12 years ago in the principality when he defeated his compatriot Roger Federer.“It was a long time ago, but of course I remember it, it was exceptional,” Wawrinka said on-court of his 2014 victory after tournament organisers showed a video homage to him.“To have the chance to play this final here, with this exceptional tournament, and to win it in addition, will always be one of my best memories of my career.”Heading into his round of 64 meeting with 65th-ranked Argentinian Baez, Wawrinka’s only match since losing to eventual winner Daniil Medvedev in the last 16 at February’s Dubai Open was a three-set defeat to then-World No. 348 Matteo Martineau at a challenger event on clay in Naples late last month.Despite that, Wawrinka raced out of the blocks on Court Rainier III as he took a 4-1 lead in the opening set. Baez hit back to level scores at 5-5 before pouncing on Wawrinka’s serve in the 11th game to get ahead.Wawrinka then lost his opening service game of the second frame as Baez took control of the match, eventually closing out victory in one hour and 47 minutes after weathering a stirring late comeback by the former World No. 3.As reward for his win, Baez will next face World No. 1 and reigning Monte Carlo champion Carlos Alcaraz in the second round.Elsewhere, Andrey Rublev navigated his way through a topsy-turvy opener as the 13th seed beat Nuno Borges 6-4, 1-6, 6-1 to set up a round of 32 meeting with Zizou Bergs.World No. 47 Bergs booked his spot thanks to a 6-4, 6-3 victory against 37-year-old Adrian Mannarino. Arthur Rinderknech eased past 12th seed Karen Khachanov 7-5, 6-2 and will next play the winner of the meeting between Joao Fonseca and Gabriel Diallo.Published on Apr 06, 2026 #Stan #Wawrinka #bids #farewell #Monte #Carlo #Masters #firstround #exit

mwasimuddin125 0

Stan Wawrinka bid farewell to the Monte Carlo Masters as the 2014 champion fell 7-5, 7-5 to Sebastian Baez in the first round on Monday.
The 41-year-old three-time Grand Slam winner will retire from tennis at the end of the season and entered the main draw in Monaco as a wildcard 20 years on from his debut at the tournament.
The Swiss won his sole 1000-level title 12 years ago in the principality when he defeated his compatriot Roger Federer.
“It was a long time ago, but of course I remember it, it was exceptional,” Wawrinka said on-court of his 2014 victory after tournament organisers showed a video homage to him.
“To have the chance to play this final here, with this exceptional tournament, and to win it in addition, will always be one of my best memories of my career.”
Heading into his round of 64 meeting with 65th-ranked Argentinian Baez, Wawrinka’s only match since losing to eventual winner Daniil Medvedev in the last 16 at February’s Dubai Open was a three-set defeat to then-World No. 348 Matteo Martineau at a challenger event on clay in Naples late last month.
Despite that, Wawrinka raced out of the blocks on Court Rainier III as he took a 4-1 lead in the opening set. Baez hit back to level scores at 5-5 before pouncing on Wawrinka’s serve in the 11th game to get ahead.
Wawrinka then lost his opening service game of the second frame as Baez took control of the match, eventually closing out victory in one hour and 47 minutes after weathering a stirring late comeback by the former World No. 3.
As reward for his win, Baez will next face World No. 1 and reigning Monte Carlo champion Carlos Alcaraz in the second round.
Elsewhere, Andrey Rublev navigated his way through a topsy-turvy opener as the 13th seed beat Nuno Borges 6-4, 1-6, 6-1 to set up a round of 32 meeting with Zizou Bergs.
World No. 47 Bergs booked his spot thanks to a 6-4, 6-3 victory against 37-year-old Adrian Mannarino. Arthur Rinderknech eased past 12th seed Karen Khachanov 7-5, 6-2 and will next play the winner of the meeting between Joao Fonseca and Gabriel Diallo.
Published on Apr 06, 2026

#Stan #Wawrinka #bids #farewell #Monte #Carlo #Masters #firstround #exit">Stan Wawrinka bids farewell to Monte Carlo Masters after first-round exit

Stan Wawrinka bid farewell to the Monte Carlo Masters as the 2014 champion fell 7-5, 7-5 to Sebastian Baez in the first round on Monday.

The 41-year-old three-time Grand Slam winner will retire from tennis at the end of the season and entered the main draw in Monaco as a wildcard 20 years on from his debut at the tournament.

The Swiss won his sole 1000-level title 12 years ago in the principality when he defeated his compatriot Roger Federer.

“It was a long time ago, but of course I remember it, it was exceptional,” Wawrinka said on-court of his 2014 victory after tournament organisers showed a video homage to him.

“To have the chance to play this final here, with this exceptional tournament, and to win it in addition, will always be one of my best memories of my career.”

As reward for his win, Baez will next face World No. 1 and reigning Monte Carlo champion Carlos Alcaraz in the second round.

Elsewhere, Andrey Rublev navigated his way through a topsy-turvy opener as the 13th seed beat Nuno Borges 6-4, 1-6, 6-1 to set up a round of 32 meeting with Zizou Bergs.

Published on Apr 06, 2026

#Stan #Wawrinka #bids #farewell #Monte #Carlo #Masters #firstround #exit

Deadspin | Phillies work to get bats going in series opener against Giants Apr 5, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) bats in the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images The Philadelphia Phillies hope the challenge of a tough ballpark will awaken their slumbering bats when they open a three-game road series against the San Francisco Giants in Oracle Park on Monday night. The Phillies are 5-4 in large part because of an inconsistent offense. Their 4-1 loss at Colorado on Sunday was their fifth game scoring three or fewer runs. An uplifting 10-1 win at hitter-friendly Coors Field in Denver on Friday was followed by a total of three runs by the Phillies over the weekend. It’s the type of roller-coaster ride that has slugger Bryce Harper warning fans not to get too high with the highs or too low with the lows in April. “That’s kind of how seasons go sometimes, right?” he said. “Some guys have good first months and then have a terrible rest of the season. Or they have a really bad first month and then they win an MVP. That’s why you play the whole season. “You don’t put too much stock in the first couple games. You just play your game, understand it’s a long season, and you’ve just got to find value in playing a full season.” Kyle Schwarber has three early home runs and Harper two, and now the left-handed sluggers will take their annual cracks at the San Francisco Bay beyond the right-field bleachers at Oracle Park. They’ll do so in the series opener against right-hander Adrian Houser (0-1, 1.69 ERA), who will make his first home start as a Giant. He was a hard-luck loser in a 7-1 defeat at San Diego last Wednesday after limiting the Padres to one earned run in 5 1/3 innings. He’s gone 1-2 with a 3.90 ERA in eight career games (three starts) against the Phillies. Houser will oppose right-hander Andrew Painter (1-0, 1.69 ERA), who got just enough support last Tuesday to earn a 3-2 home triumph over the Washington Nationals. Painter allowed just one run in 5 1/3 innings. The rookie will make his first big-league road start and his first against San Francisco. The Giants likely will enjoy seeing a team without “New York” on the front of its jerseys after opening their home schedule last week by getting swept in three games by the Yankees before losing three in a row to the Mets the last three days after a series-opening win on Thursday. San Francisco manager Tony Vitello acknowledged to reporters after Sunday’s 5-2 defeat that the frustration of “defensive mistakes” and “guys not running the bases hard enough or smart enough” contributed to a seventh-inning dispute with umpires that resulted in his first major league ejection. “When you’re not playing well, everybody notices everything,” Vitello said. “At least now they become a talking point. The nice thing is you can pick out the things you can eliminate because you can control them and eliminate them.” Neither Houser nor Painter allowed a home run in his season debut. There have been just nine homers hit in the first seven games played at Oracle Park this season. The only Giant to have one is Rafael Devers. – Field Level Media #Deadspin #Phillies #work #bats #series #opener #Giants

#Deadspin #Phillies #work #bats #series #opener #Giants">

mwasimuddin125 0

Apr 5, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) bats in the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Phillies hope the challenge of a tough ballpark will awaken their slumbering bats when they open a three-game road series against the San Francisco Giants in Oracle Park on Monday night.

The Phillies are 5-4 in large part because of an inconsistent offense. Their 4-1 loss at Colorado on Sunday was their fifth game scoring three or fewer runs.

An uplifting 10-1 win at hitter-friendly Coors Field in Denver on Friday was followed by a total of three runs by the Phillies over the weekend. It’s the type of roller-coaster ride that has slugger Bryce Harper warning fans not to get too high with the highs or too low with the lows in April.

“That’s kind of how seasons go sometimes, right?” he said. “Some guys have good first months and then have a terrible rest of the season. Or they have a really bad first month and then they win an MVP. That’s why you play the whole season.

“You don’t put too much stock in the first couple games. You just play your game, understand it’s a long season, and you’ve just got to find value in playing a full season.”

Kyle Schwarber has three early home runs and Harper two, and now the left-handed sluggers will take their annual cracks at the San Francisco Bay beyond the right-field bleachers at Oracle Park.

They’ll do so in the series opener against right-hander Adrian Houser (0-1, 1.69 ERA), who will make his first home start as a Giant. He was a hard-luck loser in a 7-1 defeat at San Diego last Wednesday after limiting the Padres to one earned run in 5 1/3 innings.

He’s gone 1-2 with a 3.90 ERA in eight career games (three starts) against the Phillies.

Houser will oppose right-hander Andrew Painter (1-0, 1.69 ERA), who got just enough support last Tuesday to earn a 3-2 home triumph over the Washington Nationals. Painter allowed just one run in 5 1/3 innings.

The rookie will make his first big-league road start and his first against San Francisco.

The Giants likely will enjoy seeing a team without “New York” on the front of its jerseys after opening their home schedule last week by getting swept in three games by the Yankees before losing three in a row to the Mets the last three days after a series-opening win on Thursday.

San Francisco manager Tony Vitello acknowledged to reporters after Sunday’s 5-2 defeat that the frustration of “defensive mistakes” and “guys not running the bases hard enough or smart enough” contributed to a seventh-inning dispute with umpires that resulted in his first major league ejection.

“When you’re not playing well, everybody notices everything,” Vitello said. “At least now they become a talking point. The nice thing is you can pick out the things you can eliminate because you can control them and eliminate them.”

Neither Houser nor Painter allowed a home run in his season debut. There have been just nine homers hit in the first seven games played at Oracle Park this season. The only Giant to have one is Rafael Devers.

– Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Phillies #work #bats #series #opener #Giants">Deadspin | Phillies work to get bats going in series opener against Giants

Apr 5, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) bats in the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Phillies hope the challenge of a tough ballpark will awaken their slumbering bats when they open a three-game road series against the San Francisco Giants in Oracle Park on Monday night.

The Phillies are 5-4 in large part because of an inconsistent offense. Their 4-1 loss at Colorado on Sunday was their fifth game scoring three or fewer runs.

An uplifting 10-1 win at hitter-friendly Coors Field in Denver on Friday was followed by a total of three runs by the Phillies over the weekend. It’s the type of roller-coaster ride that has slugger Bryce Harper warning fans not to get too high with the highs or too low with the lows in April.

“That’s kind of how seasons go sometimes, right?” he said. “Some guys have good first months and then have a terrible rest of the season. Or they have a really bad first month and then they win an MVP. That’s why you play the whole season.

“You don’t put too much stock in the first couple games. You just play your game, understand it’s a long season, and you’ve just got to find value in playing a full season.”

Kyle Schwarber has three early home runs and Harper two, and now the left-handed sluggers will take their annual cracks at the San Francisco Bay beyond the right-field bleachers at Oracle Park.

They’ll do so in the series opener against right-hander Adrian Houser (0-1, 1.69 ERA), who will make his first home start as a Giant. He was a hard-luck loser in a 7-1 defeat at San Diego last Wednesday after limiting the Padres to one earned run in 5 1/3 innings.

He’s gone 1-2 with a 3.90 ERA in eight career games (three starts) against the Phillies.

Houser will oppose right-hander Andrew Painter (1-0, 1.69 ERA), who got just enough support last Tuesday to earn a 3-2 home triumph over the Washington Nationals. Painter allowed just one run in 5 1/3 innings.

The rookie will make his first big-league road start and his first against San Francisco.

The Giants likely will enjoy seeing a team without “New York” on the front of its jerseys after opening their home schedule last week by getting swept in three games by the Yankees before losing three in a row to the Mets the last three days after a series-opening win on Thursday.

San Francisco manager Tony Vitello acknowledged to reporters after Sunday’s 5-2 defeat that the frustration of “defensive mistakes” and “guys not running the bases hard enough or smart enough” contributed to a seventh-inning dispute with umpires that resulted in his first major league ejection.

“When you’re not playing well, everybody notices everything,” Vitello said. “At least now they become a talking point. The nice thing is you can pick out the things you can eliminate because you can control them and eliminate them.”

Neither Houser nor Painter allowed a home run in his season debut. There have been just nine homers hit in the first seven games played at Oracle Park this season. The only Giant to have one is Rafael Devers.

– Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Phillies #work #bats #series #opener #Giants

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