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Deadspin | Gunnar Henderson swats MLB-best 6th homer as O’s handle Giants Apr 11, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles pitcher Chris Bassitt (40) throws during the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images Gunnar Henderson homered again and Jeremiah Jackson also homered as the Baltimore Orioles beat the visiting San Francisco Giants 6-2 on Saturday night to even their series. Henderson has six home runs, including four in the last five games, to share the MLB lead with St. Louis outfielder Jordan Walker. Colton Cowser had two hits and Coby Mayo drove in two runs for the Orioles. Heliot Ramos, who knocked in two runs, and Jung Hoo Lee each had two hits for the Giants, whose three-game winning streak came to an end. They allowed just three runs during their streak. Baltimore starter Chris Bassitt was within one out of recording his first victory with the Orioles. He worked 4 2/3 innings and gave up two runs (one earned) on seven hits and one walk. Grant Wolfram (1-0) was the winning pitcher with one inning of scoreless relief. He was the first of five guys to come out of the Baltimore bullpen. Giants ace Logan Webb (1-2) worked six innings and was charged with four runs on five hits and three walks with six strikeouts. San Francisco reliever Caleb Kilian gave up Jackson’s homer in the seventh on the first batter he faced. The Giants opened the scoring with Ramos’ second-inning single. The Orioles tied it in the bottom of the inning on Cowser’s groundout. Henderson’s solo blast came with one out in the third. San Francisco pulled even in the fourth on a Ramos groundout. The Orioles regained the lead in the bottom of the frame. Mayo’s fielder’s choice grounder brought in Leody Taveras, then Jackson doubled to right to make it 4-2. Jackson’s homer padded the lead and Mayo added an eighth-inning RBI single. The Giants won 6-3 in Friday night’s series opener. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Gunnar #Henderson #swats #MLBbest #6th #homer #handle #Giants

Deadspin | Gunnar Henderson swats MLB-best 6th homer as O’s handle Giants
Deadspin | Gunnar Henderson swats MLB-best 6th homer as O’s handle Giants Apr 11, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles pitcher Chris Bassitt (40) throws during the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images Gunnar Henderson homered again and Jeremiah Jackson also homered as the Baltimore Orioles beat the visiting San Francisco Giants 6-2 on Saturday night to even their series. Henderson has six home runs, including four in the last five games, to share the MLB lead with St. Louis outfielder Jordan Walker. Colton Cowser had two hits and Coby Mayo drove in two runs for the Orioles. Heliot Ramos, who knocked in two runs, and Jung Hoo Lee each had two hits for the Giants, whose three-game winning streak came to an end. They allowed just three runs during their streak. Baltimore starter Chris Bassitt was within one out of recording his first victory with the Orioles. He worked 4 2/3 innings and gave up two runs (one earned) on seven hits and one walk. Grant Wolfram (1-0) was the winning pitcher with one inning of scoreless relief. He was the first of five guys to come out of the Baltimore bullpen. Giants ace Logan Webb (1-2) worked six innings and was charged with four runs on five hits and three walks with six strikeouts. San Francisco reliever Caleb Kilian gave up Jackson’s homer in the seventh on the first batter he faced. The Giants opened the scoring with Ramos’ second-inning single. The Orioles tied it in the bottom of the inning on Cowser’s groundout. Henderson’s solo blast came with one out in the third. San Francisco pulled even in the fourth on a Ramos groundout. The Orioles regained the lead in the bottom of the frame. Mayo’s fielder’s choice grounder brought in Leody Taveras, then Jackson doubled to right to make it 4-2. Jackson’s homer padded the lead and Mayo added an eighth-inning RBI single. The Giants won 6-3 in Friday night’s series opener. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Gunnar #Henderson #swats #MLBbest #6th #homer #handle #GiantsApr 11, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles pitcher Chris Bassitt (40) throws during the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

Gunnar Henderson homered again and Jeremiah Jackson also homered as the Baltimore Orioles beat the visiting San Francisco Giants 6-2 on Saturday night to even their series.

Henderson has six home runs, including four in the last five games, to share the MLB lead with St. Louis outfielder Jordan Walker.

Colton Cowser had two hits and Coby Mayo drove in two runs for the Orioles.

Heliot Ramos, who knocked in two runs, and Jung Hoo Lee each had two hits for the Giants, whose three-game winning streak came to an end. They allowed just three runs during their streak.

Baltimore starter Chris Bassitt was within one out of recording his first victory with the Orioles. He worked 4 2/3 innings and gave up two runs (one earned) on seven hits and one walk.

Grant Wolfram (1-0) was the winning pitcher with one inning of scoreless relief. He was the first of five guys to come out of the Baltimore bullpen.


Giants ace Logan Webb (1-2) worked six innings and was charged with four runs on five hits and three walks with six strikeouts.

San Francisco reliever Caleb Kilian gave up Jackson’s homer in the seventh on the first batter he faced.

The Giants opened the scoring with Ramos’ second-inning single. The Orioles tied it in the bottom of the inning on Cowser’s groundout.

Henderson’s solo blast came with one out in the third.

San Francisco pulled even in the fourth on a Ramos groundout. The Orioles regained the lead in the bottom of the frame. Mayo’s fielder’s choice grounder brought in Leody Taveras, then Jackson doubled to right to make it 4-2.

Jackson’s homer padded the lead and Mayo added an eighth-inning RBI single.

The Giants won 6-3 in Friday night’s series opener.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Gunnar #Henderson #swats #MLBbest #6th #homer #handle #Giants

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Apr 11, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles pitcher Chris Bassitt (40) throws during the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

Gunnar Henderson homered again and Jeremiah Jackson also homered as the Baltimore Orioles beat the visiting San Francisco Giants 6-2 on Saturday night to even their series.

Henderson has six home runs, including four in the last five games, to share the MLB lead with St. Louis outfielder Jordan Walker.

Colton Cowser had two hits and Coby Mayo drove in two runs for the Orioles.

Heliot Ramos, who knocked in two runs, and Jung Hoo Lee each had two hits for the Giants, whose three-game winning streak came to an end. They allowed just three runs during their streak.

Baltimore starter Chris Bassitt was within one out of recording his first victory with the Orioles. He worked 4 2/3 innings and gave up two runs (one earned) on seven hits and one walk.

Grant Wolfram (1-0) was the winning pitcher with one inning of scoreless relief. He was the first of five guys to come out of the Baltimore bullpen.

Giants ace Logan Webb (1-2) worked six innings and was charged with four runs on five hits and three walks with six strikeouts.

San Francisco reliever Caleb Kilian gave up Jackson’s homer in the seventh on the first batter he faced.

The Giants opened the scoring with Ramos’ second-inning single. The Orioles tied it in the bottom of the inning on Cowser’s groundout.

Henderson’s solo blast came with one out in the third.

San Francisco pulled even in the fourth on a Ramos groundout. The Orioles regained the lead in the bottom of the frame. Mayo’s fielder’s choice grounder brought in Leody Taveras, then Jackson doubled to right to make it 4-2.

Jackson’s homer padded the lead and Mayo added an eighth-inning RBI single.

The Giants won 6-3 in Friday night’s series opener.

–Field Level Media

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IPL 2026: Be more clinical at home, says Williamson after LSG’s seven-wicket loss <div id="content-body-70855114" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Kane Williamson admitted that Lucknow Super Giants need to be “more clinical at home” after their seven-wicket defeat in an IPL match here on Sunday, even as he pointed to challenging pitch conditions and evolving match dynamics as key factors.</p><p>Reflecting on the team’s performance across four matches, Williamson, who serves as LSG’s strategy coach, stressed the importance of adapting to varying surfaces.</p><p>LSG have lost two of four outings so far.</p><p>“We would like to be clinical at home, but context is important. Across the four matches, there’s been a lot of problem-solving required on the surfaces we’ve been on,” the Kiwi said at the post-match press conference.</p><p>With high-scoring games becoming common at other venues, Williamson highlighted the contrast in conditions in Lucknow.</p><p>“When you turn on the TV and see teams getting 230-240 elsewhere, it’s different. Here, there’s been slow and variable bounce. We want to keep improving in those areas, take the positives, and learn from the rest,” he added.</p><p>He noted that the nature of the pitch, especially in a day game, made stroke-making difficult.</p><p>“On these surfaces, which tend to slow down, you need to find ways to be effective. They’re not easy to hit on, but at other venues, you’d encourage more freedom if conditions allow,” he explained.</p><p>Williamson backed the team’s batting unit, expressing confidence in its ability to deliver consistently, while singling out Nicholas Pooran.</p><p>“Today we were an inch away from seeing Pooran at his destructive best. He’s a world-class player, working very hard, and has a strong desire to make big contributions. We’ll keep seeing improvements from him,” he said.</p><p>Talking about the changing nature of T20 cricket, Williamson said the introduction of the Impact Player rule has altered team strategies significantly.</p><p>“The margins are small now. With Impact Players, teams are effectively batting till eight or nine. It’s more about maximising roles rather than pacing innings like before,” he observed.</p><p>He also expressed confidence in Rishabh Pant, calling him a “world-class player” with a proven record across formats.</p><p>“All players, including him, have a strong desire to keep evolving. That’s what makes them great,” he said.</p><p>Summing up the campaign so far, Williamson said LSG are still in a learning phase despite a mixed start.</p><p>“We’re two weeks into a long tournament. The team has scrapped hard on challenging surfaces. We’re two from four but learning a lot and looking forward to the games ahead,” he said.</p><p>Providing an update on injured players, he said pace bowler Mayank Yadav is making good progress, while Mohsin Khan is also improving.</p><p>“Mayank is really pushing the envelope with his pace, which is exciting. Mohsin is improving well, and hopefully we’ll see both of them fairly soon,” he added.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 12, 2026</p></div> #IPL #clinical #home #Williamson #LSGs #sevenwicket #loss

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Deadspin | Jose Soriano still dealing as Angels defeat Reds Los Angeles Angels pitcher José Soriano (59) delivers a pitch in the first inning of a MLB game between the Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Angels, Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati. Jose Soriano continued his hot start with 10 strikeouts over seven shutout innings and Oswald Peraza homered to lead the Los Angeles Angels to a 9-6 victory over the host Cincinnati Reds in the rubber-game of their three-game series on Sunday afternoon. It was the second consecutive start that Soriano (4-0), who allowed two singles and walked three, struck out 10 batters. He left after throwing 106 pitches, 69 for strikes, while lowering his ERA to 0.33, tops in the majors. Soriano has allowed just nine hits and just one run – a homer by Atlanta catcher Drake Baldwin – in 27 innings this season. He has walked nine and while striking out a major league-leading 31 batters. Mike Trout went 2-for-4 with a double, a walk, three runs and an RBI and Nolan Schanuel had two hits, two walks and three RBIs for Los Angeles, which won a series in Cincinnati for the first time since 2007. Logan O’Hoppe and Jo Adell each added two hits and an RBI, and Zach Neto walked three times and scored a run for the Angels. Elly De La Cruz hit a three-run homer and had two hits for Cincinnati, which lost for the fourth time in the last five games. Andrew Abbott (0-2) suffered the loss, allowing seven runs on eight hits in three-plus innings. He walked two and struck out one. Los Angeles parlayed five singles into three runs in the top of the first inning. Schanuel made it 2-0 with a bases-loaded single to left-center, and O’Hoppe followed with another RBI single. The Angels extended the lead to 5-0 in the second inning when Neto walked and scored on a double into the left field corner by Trout, who advanced to third on single by Adell. Jorge Soler then drove in Trout with a sacrifice fly. Peraza led off the fourth with a line-drive homer to left, and Adell added a bases-loaded fielder’s choice to drive in another run to make it 7-0. Peraza drove in another run in the seventh with a groundout, and Schanuel made it 9-0 in the eighth with a bases-loaded walk. The Reds made things interesting at the end, scoring three runs in the eighth, including two on a bases-loaded wild pitch, and De La Cruz’s two-out, three-run homer to center in the bottom of the ninth. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Jose #Soriano #dealing #Angels #defeat #RedsLos Angeles Angels pitcher José Soriano (59) delivers a pitch in the first inning of a MLB game between the Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Angels, Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati.

Jose Soriano continued his hot start with 10 strikeouts over seven shutout innings and Oswald Peraza homered to lead the Los Angeles Angels to a 9-6 victory over the host Cincinnati Reds in the rubber-game of their three-game series on Sunday afternoon.

It was the second consecutive start that Soriano (4-0), who allowed two singles and walked three, struck out 10 batters. He left after throwing 106 pitches, 69 for strikes, while lowering his ERA to 0.33, tops in the majors.

Soriano has allowed just nine hits and just one run – a homer by Atlanta catcher Drake Baldwin – in 27 innings this season. He has walked nine and while striking out a major league-leading 31 batters.

Mike Trout went 2-for-4 with a double, a walk, three runs and an RBI and Nolan Schanuel had two hits, two walks and three RBIs for Los Angeles, which won a series in Cincinnati for the first time since 2007. Logan O’Hoppe and Jo Adell each added two hits and an RBI, and Zach Neto walked three times and scored a run for the Angels.


Elly De La Cruz hit a three-run homer and had two hits for Cincinnati, which lost for the fourth time in the last five games. Andrew Abbott (0-2) suffered the loss, allowing seven runs on eight hits in three-plus innings. He walked two and struck out one.

Los Angeles parlayed five singles into three runs in the top of the first inning. Schanuel made it 2-0 with a bases-loaded single to left-center, and O’Hoppe followed with another RBI single.

The Angels extended the lead to 5-0 in the second inning when Neto walked and scored on a double into the left field corner by Trout, who advanced to third on single by Adell. Jorge Soler then drove in Trout with a sacrifice fly.

Peraza led off the fourth with a line-drive homer to left, and Adell added a bases-loaded fielder’s choice to drive in another run to make it 7-0. Peraza drove in another run in the seventh with a groundout, and Schanuel made it 9-0 in the eighth with a bases-loaded walk.

The Reds made things interesting at the end, scoring three runs in the eighth, including two on a bases-loaded wild pitch, and De La Cruz’s two-out, three-run homer to center in the bottom of the ninth.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Jose #Soriano #dealing #Angels #defeat #Reds">Deadspin | Jose Soriano still dealing as Angels defeat Reds Los Angeles Angels pitcher José Soriano (59) delivers a pitch in the first inning of a MLB game between the Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Angels, Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati. Jose Soriano continued his hot start with 10 strikeouts over seven shutout innings and Oswald Peraza homered to lead the Los Angeles Angels to a 9-6 victory over the host Cincinnati Reds in the rubber-game of their three-game series on Sunday afternoon. It was the second consecutive start that Soriano (4-0), who allowed two singles and walked three, struck out 10 batters. He left after throwing 106 pitches, 69 for strikes, while lowering his ERA to 0.33, tops in the majors. Soriano has allowed just nine hits and just one run – a homer by Atlanta catcher Drake Baldwin – in 27 innings this season. He has walked nine and while striking out a major league-leading 31 batters. Mike Trout went 2-for-4 with a double, a walk, three runs and an RBI and Nolan Schanuel had two hits, two walks and three RBIs for Los Angeles, which won a series in Cincinnati for the first time since 2007. Logan O’Hoppe and Jo Adell each added two hits and an RBI, and Zach Neto walked three times and scored a run for the Angels. Elly De La Cruz hit a three-run homer and had two hits for Cincinnati, which lost for the fourth time in the last five games. Andrew Abbott (0-2) suffered the loss, allowing seven runs on eight hits in three-plus innings. He walked two and struck out one. Los Angeles parlayed five singles into three runs in the top of the first inning. Schanuel made it 2-0 with a bases-loaded single to left-center, and O’Hoppe followed with another RBI single. The Angels extended the lead to 5-0 in the second inning when Neto walked and scored on a double into the left field corner by Trout, who advanced to third on single by Adell. Jorge Soler then drove in Trout with a sacrifice fly. Peraza led off the fourth with a line-drive homer to left, and Adell added a bases-loaded fielder’s choice to drive in another run to make it 7-0. Peraza drove in another run in the seventh with a groundout, and Schanuel made it 9-0 in the eighth with a bases-loaded walk. The Reds made things interesting at the end, scoring three runs in the eighth, including two on a bases-loaded wild pitch, and De La Cruz’s two-out, three-run homer to center in the bottom of the ninth. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Jose #Soriano #dealing #Angels #defeat #Reds

Rajasthan Royals’ long-time team manager Romi Bhinder has found himself in the middle of a controversy after television cameras caught him using a mobile phone in the team dugout during an Indian Premier League fixture against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati earlier this week.

While the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has swung into action and initiated a probe, Board secretary Devajit Saikia said the “veracity of the incident” would be established before any conclusion is drawn.

“Managers using a mobile phone is permissible, but we need to find out whether there was any violation of rules. That fact-finding exercise is now on. Once it is complete, we will take necessary steps depending on the outcome,” Saikia told  Sportstar.

Footage of the incident, showing Bhinder on his phone with Vaibhav Suryavanshi seated beside him, quickly went viral on social media, prompting the ACU to take cognisance.

However, Saikia reiterated that due process would be followed. “We will conduct an internal examination before reaching a logical conclusion. We need to review the video footage and gather evidence,” he added.

According to the IPL’s official guidelines under the PMOA (Players and Match Officials Area) protocol (2026), “The Team Manager may use a phone in the dressing room but NOT in the dugout.”

Ahead of every season, the IPL conducts mandatory briefings for team captains and managers, taking them through the PMOA framework and anti-corruption protocols.

Bhinder, a long-serving figure with Rajasthan Royals, has been part of that system for years. During the franchise’s suspension between 2016 and 2018, he also worked with Rising Pune Supergiant as team manager, before returning to his old franchise in 2018.

Published on Apr 12, 2026

#Phone #IPL #dugout #controversy #manager #Bhinder #scrutiny #AntiCorruption #Unit">Phone in IPL dugout controversy — RR manager Bhinder under scrutiny from Anti-Corruption Unit Rajasthan Royals’ long-time team manager Romi Bhinder has found himself in the middle of a controversy after television cameras caught him using a mobile phone in the team dugout during an Indian Premier League fixture against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati earlier this week.While the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has swung into action and initiated a probe, Board secretary Devajit Saikia said the “veracity of the incident” would be established before any conclusion is drawn.“Managers using a mobile phone is permissible, but we need to find out whether there was any violation of rules. That fact-finding exercise is now on. Once it is complete, we will take necessary steps depending on the outcome,” Saikia told  Sportstar.Footage of the incident, showing Bhinder on his phone with Vaibhav Suryavanshi seated beside him, quickly went viral on social media, prompting the ACU to take cognisance.However, Saikia reiterated that due process would be followed. “We will conduct an internal examination before reaching a logical conclusion. We need to review the video footage and gather evidence,” he added.According to the IPL’s official guidelines under the PMOA (Players and Match Officials Area) protocol (2026), “The Team Manager may use a phone in the dressing room but NOT in the dugout.”Ahead of every season, the IPL conducts mandatory briefings for team captains and managers, taking them through the PMOA framework and anti-corruption protocols.Bhinder, a long-serving figure with Rajasthan Royals, has been part of that system for years. During the franchise’s suspension between 2016 and 2018, he also worked with Rising Pune Supergiant as team manager, before returning to his old franchise in 2018.Published on Apr 12, 2026 #Phone #IPL #dugout #controversy #manager #Bhinder #scrutiny #AntiCorruption #Unit

Three MLB Contenders That Need Answers Before It’s Too Late | Deadspin.com Apr 8, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Kyle Schwarber (12) celebrates a single in the top of the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images Good Major League Baseball organizations resist the urge to press the panic button, especially before MLB celebrates Jackie Robinson’s legacy on April 15.But good MLB franchises also do their best to ensure that poor starts don’t turn into lost seasons — both for their players and the collective. That’s why there are a few expected contenders that likely are watching every pitch and swing with more of a critical eye.Every team enters Sunday’s action with either 14 or 15 games under their belt, so there’s still 90 percent of the season to go. But here are three teams that aren’t coming close to living up to their potential — and why:PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES (7-7)The two-time defending NL East champs didn’t spend huge dollars on Kyle Schwarber and Cristopher Sanchez and good money on setup man Brad Keller just so they can be mediocre.While they’re sitting at .500, their numbers suggest they should be worse. They’ve gotten outscored by 15 runs, which combines painful starts from Jesus Luzardo (6.23 ERA) and Taijuan Walker (9.31 ERA) with dreadful production from their infield.Leadoff man Trea Turner boasts a .237 average, a .591 OPS and just one stolen base in 14 games. That makes him the Phils’ second-hottest infielder as 2B Bryson Stott (.190 average, .477 OPS) and 3B Alec Bohm (.157 average, .470 OPS) are not exactly stinging the ball. Bohm has dropped from cleanup to eighth in the order, but that might not be far enough.Meanwhile, Schwarber has fanned a league-high 23 times in just 62 plate appearances (37.1%). In retrospect, it’s no wonder the Phillies recently went 20 straight innings without scoring against the scuffling San Francisco Giants.TORONTO BLUE JAYS (6-8) Mar 31, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) delivers a pitch against the Colorado Rockies in the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images Speaking of spending big money, the Blue Jays went all-in to maximize their chances for a second consecutive World Series appearance — trying to join an American League list that consists of the Houston Astros (2021-22), Kansas City Royals (2014-15) and Texas Rangers (2010-11) over the last 25 years.The Blue Jays rank last in the AL in runs differential (-19) — not including the Chicago White Sox’s minus-31 because they’re not even trying to field a full roster of MLB-caliber players — but Toronto can take some solace that it ranks first in unlikely, ruinous injuries.Catcher Alejandro Kirk fractured the thumb on his glove hand while catching a pitch. New starting pitcher Cody Ponce suffered a season-ending knee sprain trying to field a bouncer between the mound and first.They joined a teeming injured list that also features starting pitchers Trey Yesavage, Jose Berrios, Shane Bieber and Bowden Francis and starting outfielders Addison Barger and Anthony Santander.The Jays have no choice but to be patient, but it must be tempting to spend some more millions each time they endure another start like Saturday’s — when Eric Lauer allowed seven earned runs in the third to spark a 7-4 loss to Minnesota.KANSAS CITY ROYALS (7-8) Apr 6, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen (22) runs the bases after hitting a solo home run off Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Peyton Pallette (41) during the sixth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images We’ll keep this brief because there’s one stat that sums up the Royals’ 3.27 runs per game through Saturday’s play:In the Royals’ first 14 games, All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt reached base 22 times (15 hits and seven walks) and stole eight bases. Somehow, though, he managed to score just one run. According to White Sox radio play-by-play man Len Kasper, that’s because the rest of the Royals batted .120 with Witt on base.Being a team-first guy, Witt figured out a way Saturday to keep his teammates from feeling worse about themselves: He elected to go 0-for-4 — just the second time this year he failed to get on base.That had to make Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez, who boast matching .164 batting averages, feel much better. #MLB #Contenders #Answers #Late #Deadspin.comApr 8, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Kyle Schwarber (12) celebrates a single in the top of the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images

Good Major League Baseball organizations resist the urge to press the panic button, especially before MLB celebrates Jackie Robinson’s legacy on April 15.

But good MLB franchises also do their best to ensure that poor starts don’t turn into lost seasons — both for their players and the collective. That’s why there are a few expected contenders that likely are watching every pitch and swing with more of a critical eye.

Every team enters Sunday’s action with either 14 or 15 games under their belt, so there’s still 90 percent of the season to go. But here are three teams that aren’t coming close to living up to their potential — and why:

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES (7-7)

The two-time defending NL East champs didn’t spend huge dollars on Kyle Schwarber and Cristopher Sanchez and good money on setup man Brad Keller just so they can be mediocre.

While they’re sitting at .500, their numbers suggest they should be worse. They’ve gotten outscored by 15 runs, which combines painful starts from Jesus Luzardo (6.23 ERA) and Taijuan Walker (9.31 ERA) with dreadful production from their infield.

Leadoff man Trea Turner boasts a .237 average, a .591 OPS and just one stolen base in 14 games. That makes him the Phils’ second-hottest infielder as 2B Bryson Stott (.190 average, .477 OPS) and 3B Alec Bohm (.157 average, .470 OPS) are not exactly stinging the ball. Bohm has dropped from cleanup to eighth in the order, but that might not be far enough.

Meanwhile, Schwarber has fanned a league-high 23 times in just 62 plate appearances (37.1%). In retrospect, it’s no wonder the Phillies recently went 20 straight innings without scoring against the scuffling San Francisco Giants.

TORONTO BLUE JAYS (6-8)

Mar 31, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) delivers a pitch against the Colorado Rockies in the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn ImagesMar 31, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) delivers a pitch against the Colorado Rockies in the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Speaking of spending big money, the Blue Jays went all-in to maximize their chances for a second consecutive World Series appearance — trying to join an American League list that consists of the Houston Astros (2021-22), Kansas City Royals (2014-15) and Texas Rangers (2010-11) over the last 25 years.

The Blue Jays rank last in the AL in runs differential (-19) — not including the Chicago White Sox’s minus-31 because they’re not even trying to field a full roster of MLB-caliber players — but Toronto can take some solace that it ranks first in unlikely, ruinous injuries.

Catcher Alejandro Kirk fractured the thumb on his glove hand while catching a pitch. New starting pitcher Cody Ponce suffered a season-ending knee sprain trying to field a bouncer between the mound and first.

They joined a teeming injured list that also features starting pitchers Trey Yesavage, Jose Berrios, Shane Bieber and Bowden Francis and starting outfielders Addison Barger and Anthony Santander.

The Jays have no choice but to be patient, but it must be tempting to spend some more millions each time they endure another start like Saturday’s — when Eric Lauer allowed seven earned runs in the third to spark a 7-4 loss to Minnesota.

KANSAS CITY ROYALS (7-8)

Apr 6, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen (22) runs the bases after hitting a solo home run off Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Peyton Pallette (41) during the sixth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn ImagesApr 6, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen (22) runs the bases after hitting a solo home run off Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Peyton Pallette (41) during the sixth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images

We’ll keep this brief because there’s one stat that sums up the Royals’ 3.27 runs per game through Saturday’s play:

In the Royals’ first 14 games, All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt reached base 22 times (15 hits and seven walks) and stole eight bases. Somehow, though, he managed to score just one run. According to White Sox radio play-by-play man Len Kasper, that’s because the rest of the Royals batted .120 with Witt on base.

Being a team-first guy, Witt figured out a way Saturday to keep his teammates from feeling worse about themselves: He elected to go 0-for-4 — just the second time this year he failed to get on base.

That had to make Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez, who boast matching .164 batting averages, feel much better.

#MLB #Contenders #Answers #Late #Deadspin.com">Three MLB Contenders That Need Answers Before It’s Too Late | Deadspin.com Apr 8, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Kyle Schwarber (12) celebrates a single in the top of the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images Good Major League Baseball organizations resist the urge to press the panic button, especially before MLB celebrates Jackie Robinson’s legacy on April 15.But good MLB franchises also do their best to ensure that poor starts don’t turn into lost seasons — both for their players and the collective. That’s why there are a few expected contenders that likely are watching every pitch and swing with more of a critical eye.Every team enters Sunday’s action with either 14 or 15 games under their belt, so there’s still 90 percent of the season to go. But here are three teams that aren’t coming close to living up to their potential — and why:PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES (7-7)The two-time defending NL East champs didn’t spend huge dollars on Kyle Schwarber and Cristopher Sanchez and good money on setup man Brad Keller just so they can be mediocre.While they’re sitting at .500, their numbers suggest they should be worse. They’ve gotten outscored by 15 runs, which combines painful starts from Jesus Luzardo (6.23 ERA) and Taijuan Walker (9.31 ERA) with dreadful production from their infield.Leadoff man Trea Turner boasts a .237 average, a .591 OPS and just one stolen base in 14 games. That makes him the Phils’ second-hottest infielder as 2B Bryson Stott (.190 average, .477 OPS) and 3B Alec Bohm (.157 average, .470 OPS) are not exactly stinging the ball. Bohm has dropped from cleanup to eighth in the order, but that might not be far enough.Meanwhile, Schwarber has fanned a league-high 23 times in just 62 plate appearances (37.1%). In retrospect, it’s no wonder the Phillies recently went 20 straight innings without scoring against the scuffling San Francisco Giants.TORONTO BLUE JAYS (6-8) Mar 31, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) delivers a pitch against the Colorado Rockies in the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images Speaking of spending big money, the Blue Jays went all-in to maximize their chances for a second consecutive World Series appearance — trying to join an American League list that consists of the Houston Astros (2021-22), Kansas City Royals (2014-15) and Texas Rangers (2010-11) over the last 25 years.The Blue Jays rank last in the AL in runs differential (-19) — not including the Chicago White Sox’s minus-31 because they’re not even trying to field a full roster of MLB-caliber players — but Toronto can take some solace that it ranks first in unlikely, ruinous injuries.Catcher Alejandro Kirk fractured the thumb on his glove hand while catching a pitch. New starting pitcher Cody Ponce suffered a season-ending knee sprain trying to field a bouncer between the mound and first.They joined a teeming injured list that also features starting pitchers Trey Yesavage, Jose Berrios, Shane Bieber and Bowden Francis and starting outfielders Addison Barger and Anthony Santander.The Jays have no choice but to be patient, but it must be tempting to spend some more millions each time they endure another start like Saturday’s — when Eric Lauer allowed seven earned runs in the third to spark a 7-4 loss to Minnesota.KANSAS CITY ROYALS (7-8) Apr 6, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen (22) runs the bases after hitting a solo home run off Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Peyton Pallette (41) during the sixth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images We’ll keep this brief because there’s one stat that sums up the Royals’ 3.27 runs per game through Saturday’s play:In the Royals’ first 14 games, All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt reached base 22 times (15 hits and seven walks) and stole eight bases. Somehow, though, he managed to score just one run. According to White Sox radio play-by-play man Len Kasper, that’s because the rest of the Royals batted .120 with Witt on base.Being a team-first guy, Witt figured out a way Saturday to keep his teammates from feeling worse about themselves: He elected to go 0-for-4 — just the second time this year he failed to get on base.That had to make Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez, who boast matching .164 batting averages, feel much better. #MLB #Contenders #Answers #Late #Deadspin.com

The Jays have no choice but to be patient, but it must be tempting to spend some more millions each time they endure another start like Saturday’s — when Eric Lauer allowed seven earned runs in the third to spark a 7-4 loss to Minnesota.

KANSAS CITY ROYALS (7-8)

Apr 6, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen (22) runs the bases after hitting a solo home run off Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Peyton Pallette (41) during the sixth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn ImagesApr 6, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen (22) runs the bases after hitting a solo home run off Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Peyton Pallette (41) during the sixth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images

We’ll keep this brief because there’s one stat that sums up the Royals’ 3.27 runs per game through Saturday’s play:

In the Royals’ first 14 games, All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt reached base 22 times (15 hits and seven walks) and stole eight bases. Somehow, though, he managed to score just one run. According to White Sox radio play-by-play man Len Kasper, that’s because the rest of the Royals batted .120 with Witt on base.

Being a team-first guy, Witt figured out a way Saturday to keep his teammates from feeling worse about themselves: He elected to go 0-for-4 — just the second time this year he failed to get on base.

That had to make Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez, who boast matching .164 batting averages, feel much better.

#MLB #Contenders #Answers #Late #Deadspin.com">Three MLB Contenders That Need Answers Before It’s Too Late | Deadspin.com
Three MLB Contenders That Need Answers Before It’s Too Late | Deadspin.com Apr 8, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Kyle Schwarber (12) celebrates a single in the top of the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images Good Major League Baseball organizations resist the urge to press the panic button, especially before MLB celebrates Jackie Robinson’s legacy on April 15.But good MLB franchises also do their best to ensure that poor starts don’t turn into lost seasons — both for their players and the collective. That’s why there are a few expected contenders that likely are watching every pitch and swing with more of a critical eye.Every team enters Sunday’s action with either 14 or 15 games under their belt, so there’s still 90 percent of the season to go. But here are three teams that aren’t coming close to living up to their potential — and why:PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES (7-7)The two-time defending NL East champs didn’t spend huge dollars on Kyle Schwarber and Cristopher Sanchez and good money on setup man Brad Keller just so they can be mediocre.While they’re sitting at .500, their numbers suggest they should be worse. They’ve gotten outscored by 15 runs, which combines painful starts from Jesus Luzardo (6.23 ERA) and Taijuan Walker (9.31 ERA) with dreadful production from their infield.Leadoff man Trea Turner boasts a .237 average, a .591 OPS and just one stolen base in 14 games. That makes him the Phils’ second-hottest infielder as 2B Bryson Stott (.190 average, .477 OPS) and 3B Alec Bohm (.157 average, .470 OPS) are not exactly stinging the ball. Bohm has dropped from cleanup to eighth in the order, but that might not be far enough.Meanwhile, Schwarber has fanned a league-high 23 times in just 62 plate appearances (37.1%). In retrospect, it’s no wonder the Phillies recently went 20 straight innings without scoring against the scuffling San Francisco Giants.TORONTO BLUE JAYS (6-8) Mar 31, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) delivers a pitch against the Colorado Rockies in the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images Speaking of spending big money, the Blue Jays went all-in to maximize their chances for a second consecutive World Series appearance — trying to join an American League list that consists of the Houston Astros (2021-22), Kansas City Royals (2014-15) and Texas Rangers (2010-11) over the last 25 years.The Blue Jays rank last in the AL in runs differential (-19) — not including the Chicago White Sox’s minus-31 because they’re not even trying to field a full roster of MLB-caliber players — but Toronto can take some solace that it ranks first in unlikely, ruinous injuries.Catcher Alejandro Kirk fractured the thumb on his glove hand while catching a pitch. New starting pitcher Cody Ponce suffered a season-ending knee sprain trying to field a bouncer between the mound and first.They joined a teeming injured list that also features starting pitchers Trey Yesavage, Jose Berrios, Shane Bieber and Bowden Francis and starting outfielders Addison Barger and Anthony Santander.The Jays have no choice but to be patient, but it must be tempting to spend some more millions each time they endure another start like Saturday’s — when Eric Lauer allowed seven earned runs in the third to spark a 7-4 loss to Minnesota.KANSAS CITY ROYALS (7-8) Apr 6, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen (22) runs the bases after hitting a solo home run off Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Peyton Pallette (41) during the sixth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images We’ll keep this brief because there’s one stat that sums up the Royals’ 3.27 runs per game through Saturday’s play:In the Royals’ first 14 games, All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt reached base 22 times (15 hits and seven walks) and stole eight bases. Somehow, though, he managed to score just one run. According to White Sox radio play-by-play man Len Kasper, that’s because the rest of the Royals batted .120 with Witt on base.Being a team-first guy, Witt figured out a way Saturday to keep his teammates from feeling worse about themselves: He elected to go 0-for-4 — just the second time this year he failed to get on base.That had to make Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez, who boast matching .164 batting averages, feel much better. #MLB #Contenders #Answers #Late #Deadspin.comApr 8, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Kyle Schwarber (12) celebrates a single in the top of the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images

Good Major League Baseball organizations resist the urge to press the panic button, especially before MLB celebrates Jackie Robinson’s legacy on April 15.

But good MLB franchises also do their best to ensure that poor starts don’t turn into lost seasons — both for their players and the collective. That’s why there are a few expected contenders that likely are watching every pitch and swing with more of a critical eye.

Every team enters Sunday’s action with either 14 or 15 games under their belt, so there’s still 90 percent of the season to go. But here are three teams that aren’t coming close to living up to their potential — and why:

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES (7-7)

The two-time defending NL East champs didn’t spend huge dollars on Kyle Schwarber and Cristopher Sanchez and good money on setup man Brad Keller just so they can be mediocre.

While they’re sitting at .500, their numbers suggest they should be worse. They’ve gotten outscored by 15 runs, which combines painful starts from Jesus Luzardo (6.23 ERA) and Taijuan Walker (9.31 ERA) with dreadful production from their infield.

Leadoff man Trea Turner boasts a .237 average, a .591 OPS and just one stolen base in 14 games. That makes him the Phils’ second-hottest infielder as 2B Bryson Stott (.190 average, .477 OPS) and 3B Alec Bohm (.157 average, .470 OPS) are not exactly stinging the ball. Bohm has dropped from cleanup to eighth in the order, but that might not be far enough.

Meanwhile, Schwarber has fanned a league-high 23 times in just 62 plate appearances (37.1%). In retrospect, it’s no wonder the Phillies recently went 20 straight innings without scoring against the scuffling San Francisco Giants.

TORONTO BLUE JAYS (6-8)

Mar 31, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) delivers a pitch against the Colorado Rockies in the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn ImagesMar 31, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) delivers a pitch against the Colorado Rockies in the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Speaking of spending big money, the Blue Jays went all-in to maximize their chances for a second consecutive World Series appearance — trying to join an American League list that consists of the Houston Astros (2021-22), Kansas City Royals (2014-15) and Texas Rangers (2010-11) over the last 25 years.

The Blue Jays rank last in the AL in runs differential (-19) — not including the Chicago White Sox’s minus-31 because they’re not even trying to field a full roster of MLB-caliber players — but Toronto can take some solace that it ranks first in unlikely, ruinous injuries.

Catcher Alejandro Kirk fractured the thumb on his glove hand while catching a pitch. New starting pitcher Cody Ponce suffered a season-ending knee sprain trying to field a bouncer between the mound and first.

They joined a teeming injured list that also features starting pitchers Trey Yesavage, Jose Berrios, Shane Bieber and Bowden Francis and starting outfielders Addison Barger and Anthony Santander.

The Jays have no choice but to be patient, but it must be tempting to spend some more millions each time they endure another start like Saturday’s — when Eric Lauer allowed seven earned runs in the third to spark a 7-4 loss to Minnesota.

KANSAS CITY ROYALS (7-8)

Apr 6, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen (22) runs the bases after hitting a solo home run off Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Peyton Pallette (41) during the sixth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn ImagesApr 6, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen (22) runs the bases after hitting a solo home run off Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Peyton Pallette (41) during the sixth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images

We’ll keep this brief because there’s one stat that sums up the Royals’ 3.27 runs per game through Saturday’s play:

In the Royals’ first 14 games, All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt reached base 22 times (15 hits and seven walks) and stole eight bases. Somehow, though, he managed to score just one run. According to White Sox radio play-by-play man Len Kasper, that’s because the rest of the Royals batted .120 with Witt on base.

Being a team-first guy, Witt figured out a way Saturday to keep his teammates from feeling worse about themselves: He elected to go 0-for-4 — just the second time this year he failed to get on base.

That had to make Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez, who boast matching .164 batting averages, feel much better.

#MLB #Contenders #Answers #Late #Deadspin.com

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