Deadspin | Padres’ winning streak at 8 after sweep of Mariners Apr 16, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) celebrates after hitting a two run RBI single during the second inning against the Seattle Mariners at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images Fernando Tatis Jr. knocked in two runs Thursday and Walker Buehler pitched into the sixth inning for his first win with the San Diego Padres as they stretched their winning streak to eight games with a 5-2 verdict over the visiting Seattle Mariners. Buehler (1-1) took a 4-0 lead into the sixth before Seattle reached him for three straight hits, the last an RBI single by Cal Raleigh. But he limited the Mariners to two runs on five hits with a walk and seven strikeouts. Four relievers took care of things from there with closer Mason Miller logging his sixth save by striking out the side in the ninth. That enabled San Diego to sweep the three-game series and finish the homestand with a 7-0 record. Luis Castillo (0-1) absorbed the loss after giving up seven hits and four runs (one earned) over 5 1/3 innings. He walked three and fanned three. Castillo’s trouble all came in the second, when he allowed four hits and did some damage to himself. His low throw to first on Jake Cronenworth’s comebacker gave the Padres a fourth out, and as they’ve done during their winning streak, they capitalized. Luis Campusano knocked in the first run with an RBI single and Ramon Laureano made it 2-0 with a groundout to first. Tatis followed by lacing a two-run single to left-center, giving San Diego all the offense it needed. Seattle had its chance to change the game’s arc in the sixth. After chasing Buehler, it got within 4-2 when Julio Rodriguez greeted reliever Bradgley Rodriguez with an RBI single. But Adrian Morejon rode in from the bullpen when the Mariners filled the bases with one out and quashed the threat with a strikeout of pinch hitter Connor Joe and a groundout. The Padres tacked on an insurance run in the seventh when Manny Machado blooped a single over a drawn-in infield to score Tatis. Machado and Miguel Andujar each collected two of San Diego’s 10 hits. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Padres #winning #streak #sweep #Mariners

Deadspin | Padres’ winning streak at 8 after sweep of Mariners
Deadspin | Padres’ winning streak at 8 after sweep of Mariners Apr 16, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) celebrates after hitting a two run RBI single during the second inning against the Seattle Mariners at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images Fernando Tatis Jr. knocked in two runs Thursday and Walker Buehler pitched into the sixth inning for his first win with the San Diego Padres as they stretched their winning streak to eight games with a 5-2 verdict over the visiting Seattle Mariners. Buehler (1-1) took a 4-0 lead into the sixth before Seattle reached him for three straight hits, the last an RBI single by Cal Raleigh. But he limited the Mariners to two runs on five hits with a walk and seven strikeouts. Four relievers took care of things from there with closer Mason Miller logging his sixth save by striking out the side in the ninth. That enabled San Diego to sweep the three-game series and finish the homestand with a 7-0 record. Luis Castillo (0-1) absorbed the loss after giving up seven hits and four runs (one earned) over 5 1/3 innings. He walked three and fanned three. Castillo’s trouble all came in the second, when he allowed four hits and did some damage to himself. His low throw to first on Jake Cronenworth’s comebacker gave the Padres a fourth out, and as they’ve done during their winning streak, they capitalized. Luis Campusano knocked in the first run with an RBI single and Ramon Laureano made it 2-0 with a groundout to first. Tatis followed by lacing a two-run single to left-center, giving San Diego all the offense it needed. Seattle had its chance to change the game’s arc in the sixth. After chasing Buehler, it got within 4-2 when Julio Rodriguez greeted reliever Bradgley Rodriguez with an RBI single. But Adrian Morejon rode in from the bullpen when the Mariners filled the bases with one out and quashed the threat with a strikeout of pinch hitter Connor Joe and a groundout. The Padres tacked on an insurance run in the seventh when Manny Machado blooped a single over a drawn-in infield to score Tatis. Machado and Miguel Andujar each collected two of San Diego’s 10 hits. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Padres #winning #streak #sweep #MarinersApr 16, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) celebrates after hitting a two run RBI single during the second inning against the Seattle Mariners at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

Fernando Tatis Jr. knocked in two runs Thursday and Walker Buehler pitched into the sixth inning for his first win with the San Diego Padres as they stretched their winning streak to eight games with a 5-2 verdict over the visiting Seattle Mariners.

Buehler (1-1) took a 4-0 lead into the sixth before Seattle reached him for three straight hits, the last an RBI single by Cal Raleigh. But he limited the Mariners to two runs on five hits with a walk and seven strikeouts.

Four relievers took care of things from there with closer Mason Miller logging his sixth save by striking out the side in the ninth. That enabled San Diego to sweep the three-game series and finish the homestand with a 7-0 record.

Luis Castillo (0-1) absorbed the loss after giving up seven hits and four runs (one earned) over 5 1/3 innings. He walked three and fanned three.


Castillo’s trouble all came in the second, when he allowed four hits and did some damage to himself. His low throw to first on Jake Cronenworth’s comebacker gave the Padres a fourth out, and as they’ve done during their winning streak, they capitalized.

Luis Campusano knocked in the first run with an RBI single and Ramon Laureano made it 2-0 with a groundout to first. Tatis followed by lacing a two-run single to left-center, giving San Diego all the offense it needed.

Seattle had its chance to change the game’s arc in the sixth. After chasing Buehler, it got within 4-2 when Julio Rodriguez greeted reliever Bradgley Rodriguez with an RBI single. But Adrian Morejon rode in from the bullpen when the Mariners filled the bases with one out and quashed the threat with a strikeout of pinch hitter Connor Joe and a groundout.

The Padres tacked on an insurance run in the seventh when Manny Machado blooped a single over a drawn-in infield to score Tatis.

Machado and Miguel Andujar each collected two of San Diego’s 10 hits.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Padres #winning #streak #sweep #Mariners

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Apr 16, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) celebrates after hitting a two run RBI single during the second inning against the Seattle Mariners at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

Fernando Tatis Jr. knocked in two runs Thursday and Walker Buehler pitched into the sixth inning for his first win with the San Diego Padres as they stretched their winning streak to eight games with a 5-2 verdict over the visiting Seattle Mariners.

Buehler (1-1) took a 4-0 lead into the sixth before Seattle reached him for three straight hits, the last an RBI single by Cal Raleigh. But he limited the Mariners to two runs on five hits with a walk and seven strikeouts.

Four relievers took care of things from there with closer Mason Miller logging his sixth save by striking out the side in the ninth. That enabled San Diego to sweep the three-game series and finish the homestand with a 7-0 record.

Luis Castillo (0-1) absorbed the loss after giving up seven hits and four runs (one earned) over 5 1/3 innings. He walked three and fanned three.

Castillo’s trouble all came in the second, when he allowed four hits and did some damage to himself. His low throw to first on Jake Cronenworth’s comebacker gave the Padres a fourth out, and as they’ve done during their winning streak, they capitalized.

Luis Campusano knocked in the first run with an RBI single and Ramon Laureano made it 2-0 with a groundout to first. Tatis followed by lacing a two-run single to left-center, giving San Diego all the offense it needed.

Seattle had its chance to change the game’s arc in the sixth. After chasing Buehler, it got within 4-2 when Julio Rodriguez greeted reliever Bradgley Rodriguez with an RBI single. But Adrian Morejon rode in from the bullpen when the Mariners filled the bases with one out and quashed the threat with a strikeout of pinch hitter Connor Joe and a groundout.

The Padres tacked on an insurance run in the seventh when Manny Machado blooped a single over a drawn-in infield to score Tatis.

Machado and Miguel Andujar each collected two of San Diego’s 10 hits.

–Field Level Media

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In the city where the Declaration of Independence was adopted 250 years ago, the Fourth of July had turned Philadelphia into a festival and a furnace. At Reading Terminal Market, locals mixed with French and Paraguayan supporters over cheesesteaks, pizza slices, and iced drinks, while the bridge above offered a patch of shade from the 42-degree heat. There was no such cover at the Lincoln Financial Field, where France spent much of the afternoon labouring in the sun before Kylian Mbappé’s penalty finally broke Paraguay’s resistance and sealed a 1-0 win that sent Les Bleus into the World Cup quarterfinals.

Philadelphia wore its history loudly. Around the Independence Hall and Liberty Bell, where Thomas Jefferson’s words and the signatures of the founding fathers gave birth to the Declaration in 1776, tourists queued through the day in the punishing heat, posing cheerfully with a costumed Statue of Liberty, France’s most memorable gift to the United States.

The holiday mood had travelled to the stadium as well, where an extended fireworks display entertained the crowd before kick-off. It added a little more heat and a veil of smoke to an already punishing evening, where France was stripped of its usual fluency and reduced to the impatience of a side being made to wait.

For long stretches, Gustavo Alfaro’s side dragged another heavyweight into frustration. Paraguay, which had already eliminated Germany in the previous round, turned the game into a scrap with its compact defending and relentless closing of space. France had the ball almost constantly, finishing the first half with more than 80 per cent possession, but not the control it had exerted for much of this tournament.

Didier Deschamps had been forced into a change before kick-off, with Manu Koné brought into the midfield after Aurélien Tchouaméni had picked up an injury in training.

Sensing there was little room through the middle, Les Bleus went wide early and almost found a reward when Mbappé narrowly failed to connect with a teasing delivery.

France’s clearest opening before the break came from a quick transition as Mike Maignan released Mbappé into open grass with a quick throw after a Paraguay corner. Juan Cáceres, however, was ready for the sprint race with one of football’s fastest. He matched the Real Madrid forward stride for stride before making a last-ditch clearance.

Paraguay offered little in attack, but Junior Alonso, Omar Alderete and Gustavo Gómez held their line together, attacking crosses and crowding the box, while those ahead continued to break opposition’s rhythm and add to the frustration inside the French contingent.

France resumed with greater urgency after the interval and in the 54th minute, Dembélé let fly from distance, drawing an acrobatic save from Orlando Gill, who pushed the ball away at full stretch. The breakthrough, when it finally came, arrived through VAR rather than open play.

Desire Doué went down inside the area under Diego Gomez’s challenge, and the referee was sent to the pitch-side monitor, and a sense of dread descended upon the Paraguayan bench. After a brief review, the spot-kick was awarded and the stadium erupted. Mbappé stepped up and rolled his penalty low into the corner, as the goalkeeper dived the wrong way.

Gill’s double save to deny Mbappé in stoppage time did little to alter the course of this contest.

This was not France at its fluent best. But, in the end, one penalty was enough to send Deschamps’ side through and leave Paraguay’s rearguard effort unrewarded.

Published on Jul 05, 2026

#Mbappe #penalty #breaks #Paraguay #resistance #France #reaches #World #Cup #quarters">Mbappe penalty breaks Paraguay resistance as France reaches World Cup quarters In the city where the Declaration of Independence was adopted 250 years ago, the Fourth of July had turned Philadelphia into a festival and a furnace. At Reading Terminal Market, locals mixed with French and Paraguayan supporters over cheesesteaks, pizza slices, and iced drinks, while the bridge above offered a patch of shade from the 42-degree heat. There was no such cover at the Lincoln Financial Field, where France spent much of the afternoon labouring in the sun before Kylian Mbappé’s penalty finally broke Paraguay’s resistance and sealed a 1-0 win that sent Les Bleus into the World Cup quarterfinals.Philadelphia wore its history loudly. Around the Independence Hall and Liberty Bell, where Thomas Jefferson’s words and the signatures of the founding fathers gave birth to the Declaration in 1776, tourists queued through the day in the punishing heat, posing cheerfully with a costumed Statue of Liberty, France’s most memorable gift to the United States.The holiday mood had travelled to the stadium as well, where an extended fireworks display entertained the crowd before kick-off. It added a little more heat and a veil of smoke to an already punishing evening, where France was stripped of its usual fluency and reduced to the impatience of a side being made to wait.For long stretches, Gustavo Alfaro’s side dragged another heavyweight into frustration. Paraguay, which had already eliminated Germany in the previous round, turned the game into a scrap with its compact defending and relentless closing of space. France had the ball almost constantly, finishing the first half with more than 80 per cent possession, but not the control it had exerted for much of this tournament.Didier Deschamps had been forced into a change before kick-off, with Manu Koné brought into the midfield after Aurélien Tchouaméni had picked up an injury in training.Sensing there was little room through the middle, Les Bleus went wide early and almost found a reward when Mbappé narrowly failed to connect with a teasing delivery.France’s clearest opening before the break came from a quick transition as Mike Maignan released Mbappé into open grass with a quick throw after a Paraguay corner. Juan Cáceres, however, was ready for the sprint race with one of football’s fastest. He matched the Real Madrid forward stride for stride before making a last-ditch clearance.Paraguay offered little in attack, but Junior Alonso, Omar Alderete and Gustavo Gómez held their line together, attacking crosses and crowding the box, while those ahead continued to break opposition’s rhythm and add to the frustration inside the French contingent.France resumed with greater urgency after the interval and in the 54th minute, Dembélé let fly from distance, drawing an acrobatic save from Orlando Gill, who pushed the ball away at full stretch. The breakthrough, when it finally came, arrived through VAR rather than open play.Desire Doué went down inside the area under Diego Gomez’s challenge, and the referee was sent to the pitch-side monitor, and a sense of dread descended upon the Paraguayan bench. After a brief review, the spot-kick was awarded and the stadium erupted. Mbappé stepped up and rolled his penalty low into the corner, as the goalkeeper dived the wrong way.Gill’s double save to deny Mbappé in stoppage time did little to alter the course of this contest.This was not France at its fluent best. But, in the end, one penalty was enough to send Deschamps’ side through and leave Paraguay’s rearguard effort unrewarded.Published on Jul 05, 2026 #Mbappe #penalty #breaks #Paraguay #resistance #France #reaches #World #Cup #quarters

Fourth of July Best MLB Betting Picks and Predictions | Deadspin.com Jul 3, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Tampa Bay Rays second baseman Ben Williamson (15) tags out Houston Astros right fielder Cam Smith (11) during the fourth inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images The Independence Day MLB card is loaded with plenty of intriguing matchups on a busy Saturday.The Chicago Cubs (49-39) look to bounce back from Friday’s 17-1 home loss to the St. Louis Cardinals (46-39). The two NL Central rivals hook up at 8:05 p.m. ET from Wrigley Field.Later on, the Los Angeles Dodgers (58-31) seek their third consecutive victory over the San Diego Padres (43-44) after rallying from multi-run deficits in each of the first two wins. These two teams close the night at Dodger Stadium at 10:10 p.m. ET.We’ll break down two plays for the Saturday action. Remember to monitor the odds throughout the day, as the sides and totals market is constantly changing.Here are the free MLB picks for Saturday, July 4. Odds Courtesy of DraftKings.Best MLB plays todayAstros (-110) vs. RaysOrioles/Reds Over 9 RunsAstros (-110) vs. Rays – 7:10 p.m. ETTampa Bay (52-33) is riding a nine-game winning streak after holding off Houston (43-47) last night, 3-1. The Astros suffered back-to-back losses for the first time since mid-June as they try to rebound tonight with ace Hunter Brown on the mound.Since returning from injury, Brown has allowed a total of four earned runs in three starts. The Astros have won two of three outings, capped off by an extra-innings victory at Detroit on June 28. Brown has held current Tampa Bay hitters to a .129 batting average in 31 plate appearances.Tampa Bay’s pitching has carried them during this hot stretch, limiting opponents to three or fewer runs eight times. The Rays are 3-4 in Drew Rasmussen’s seven starts when priced at lower than -110 or in the underdog role. Let’s back the Astros to end Tampa Bay’s winning streak. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting Orioles/Reds Over 9 Runs – 7:10 p.m. ETBaltimore blanked Cincinnati last night, 3-0 as the Reds were held to four hits. Cincinnati has seen the under hit in three of its past four home games, but look to turn things around tonight in Hunter Greene’s season debut on the mound.The hard-throwing right-hander returns from an elbow injury, making his first start since last September. He faces a Baltimore team that cashed the over in five of its previous six games against right-handed starting pitchers prior to Friday’s low-scoring affair.Baltimore’s Brandon Young has given up six earned runs in his past four outings, but his xERA (4.24) is over a run higher than his ERA (3.11). The Orioles own the highest hard-hit rate in MLB at 42.6, while Greene closed last season at 45% in this category, ranking in the 15th percentile.Look for runs to be scored tonight at Great American Ballpark between the Reds and Orioles. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting #Fourth #July #MLB #Betting #Picks #Predictions #Deadspin.comJul 3, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Tampa Bay Rays second baseman Ben Williamson (15) tags out Houston Astros right fielder Cam Smith (11) during the fourth inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

The Independence Day MLB card is loaded with plenty of intriguing matchups on a busy Saturday.

The Chicago Cubs (49-39) look to bounce back from Friday’s 17-1 home loss to the St. Louis Cardinals (46-39). The two NL Central rivals hook up at 8:05 p.m. ET from Wrigley Field.

Later on, the Los Angeles Dodgers (58-31) seek their third consecutive victory over the San Diego Padres (43-44) after rallying from multi-run deficits in each of the first two wins. These two teams close the night at Dodger Stadium at 10:10 p.m. ET.

We’ll break down two plays for the Saturday action. Remember to monitor the odds throughout the day, as the sides and totals market is constantly changing.

Here are the free MLB picks for Saturday, July 4. Odds Courtesy of DraftKings.

Best MLB plays today

  • Astros (-110) vs. Rays
  • Orioles/Reds Over 9 Runs

Astros (-110) vs. Rays – 7:10 p.m. ET

Tampa Bay (52-33) is riding a nine-game winning streak after holding off Houston (43-47) last night, 3-1. The Astros suffered back-to-back losses for the first time since mid-June as they try to rebound tonight with ace Hunter Brown on the mound.

Since returning from injury, Brown has allowed a total of four earned runs in three starts. The Astros have won two of three outings, capped off by an extra-innings victory at Detroit on June 28. Brown has held current Tampa Bay hitters to a .129 batting average in 31 plate appearances.

Tampa Bay’s pitching has carried them during this hot stretch, limiting opponents to three or fewer runs eight times. The Rays are 3-4 in Drew Rasmussen’s seven starts when priced at lower than -110 or in the underdog role. Let’s back the Astros to end Tampa Bay’s winning streak.

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Orioles/Reds Over 9 Runs – 7:10 p.m. ET

Baltimore blanked Cincinnati last night, 3-0 as the Reds were held to four hits. Cincinnati has seen the under hit in three of its past four home games, but look to turn things around tonight in Hunter Greene’s season debut on the mound.

The hard-throwing right-hander returns from an elbow injury, making his first start since last September. He faces a Baltimore team that cashed the over in five of its previous six games against right-handed starting pitchers prior to Friday’s low-scoring affair.

Baltimore’s Brandon Young has given up six earned runs in his past four outings, but his xERA (4.24) is over a run higher than his ERA (3.11). The Orioles own the highest hard-hit rate in MLB at 42.6, while Greene closed last season at 45% in this category, ranking in the 15th percentile.

Look for runs to be scored tonight at Great American Ballpark between the Reds and Orioles.

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#Fourth #July #MLB #Betting #Picks #Predictions #Deadspin.com">Fourth of July Best MLB Betting Picks and Predictions | Deadspin.com Jul 3, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Tampa Bay Rays second baseman Ben Williamson (15) tags out Houston Astros right fielder Cam Smith (11) during the fourth inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images The Independence Day MLB card is loaded with plenty of intriguing matchups on a busy Saturday.The Chicago Cubs (49-39) look to bounce back from Friday’s 17-1 home loss to the St. Louis Cardinals (46-39). The two NL Central rivals hook up at 8:05 p.m. ET from Wrigley Field.Later on, the Los Angeles Dodgers (58-31) seek their third consecutive victory over the San Diego Padres (43-44) after rallying from multi-run deficits in each of the first two wins. These two teams close the night at Dodger Stadium at 10:10 p.m. ET.We’ll break down two plays for the Saturday action. Remember to monitor the odds throughout the day, as the sides and totals market is constantly changing.Here are the free MLB picks for Saturday, July 4. Odds Courtesy of DraftKings.Best MLB plays todayAstros (-110) vs. RaysOrioles/Reds Over 9 RunsAstros (-110) vs. Rays – 7:10 p.m. ETTampa Bay (52-33) is riding a nine-game winning streak after holding off Houston (43-47) last night, 3-1. The Astros suffered back-to-back losses for the first time since mid-June as they try to rebound tonight with ace Hunter Brown on the mound.Since returning from injury, Brown has allowed a total of four earned runs in three starts. The Astros have won two of three outings, capped off by an extra-innings victory at Detroit on June 28. Brown has held current Tampa Bay hitters to a .129 batting average in 31 plate appearances.Tampa Bay’s pitching has carried them during this hot stretch, limiting opponents to three or fewer runs eight times. The Rays are 3-4 in Drew Rasmussen’s seven starts when priced at lower than -110 or in the underdog role. Let’s back the Astros to end Tampa Bay’s winning streak. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting Orioles/Reds Over 9 Runs – 7:10 p.m. ETBaltimore blanked Cincinnati last night, 3-0 as the Reds were held to four hits. Cincinnati has seen the under hit in three of its past four home games, but look to turn things around tonight in Hunter Greene’s season debut on the mound.The hard-throwing right-hander returns from an elbow injury, making his first start since last September. He faces a Baltimore team that cashed the over in five of its previous six games against right-handed starting pitchers prior to Friday’s low-scoring affair.Baltimore’s Brandon Young has given up six earned runs in his past four outings, but his xERA (4.24) is over a run higher than his ERA (3.11). The Orioles own the highest hard-hit rate in MLB at 42.6, while Greene closed last season at 45% in this category, ranking in the 15th percentile.Look for runs to be scored tonight at Great American Ballpark between the Reds and Orioles. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting #Fourth #July #MLB #Betting #Picks #Predictions #Deadspin.com

blanked Cincinnati last night, 3-0 as the Reds were held to four hits. Cincinnati has seen the under hit in three of its past four home games, but look to turn things around tonight in Hunter Greene’s season debut on the mound.

The hard-throwing right-hander returns from an elbow injury, making his first start since last September. He faces a Baltimore team that cashed the over in five of its previous six games against right-handed starting pitchers prior to Friday’s low-scoring affair.

Baltimore’s Brandon Young has given up six earned runs in his past four outings, but his xERA (4.24) is over a run higher than his ERA (3.11). The Orioles own the highest hard-hit rate in MLB at 42.6, while Greene closed last season at 45% in this category, ranking in the 15th percentile.

Look for runs to be scored tonight at Great American Ballpark between the Reds and Orioles.

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#Fourth #July #MLB #Betting #Picks #Predictions #Deadspin.com">Fourth of July Best MLB Betting Picks and Predictions | Deadspin.com
Fourth of July Best MLB Betting Picks and Predictions | Deadspin.com Jul 3, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Tampa Bay Rays second baseman Ben Williamson (15) tags out Houston Astros right fielder Cam Smith (11) during the fourth inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images The Independence Day MLB card is loaded with plenty of intriguing matchups on a busy Saturday.The Chicago Cubs (49-39) look to bounce back from Friday’s 17-1 home loss to the St. Louis Cardinals (46-39). The two NL Central rivals hook up at 8:05 p.m. ET from Wrigley Field.Later on, the Los Angeles Dodgers (58-31) seek their third consecutive victory over the San Diego Padres (43-44) after rallying from multi-run deficits in each of the first two wins. These two teams close the night at Dodger Stadium at 10:10 p.m. ET.We’ll break down two plays for the Saturday action. Remember to monitor the odds throughout the day, as the sides and totals market is constantly changing.Here are the free MLB picks for Saturday, July 4. Odds Courtesy of DraftKings.Best MLB plays todayAstros (-110) vs. RaysOrioles/Reds Over 9 RunsAstros (-110) vs. Rays – 7:10 p.m. ETTampa Bay (52-33) is riding a nine-game winning streak after holding off Houston (43-47) last night, 3-1. The Astros suffered back-to-back losses for the first time since mid-June as they try to rebound tonight with ace Hunter Brown on the mound.Since returning from injury, Brown has allowed a total of four earned runs in three starts. The Astros have won two of three outings, capped off by an extra-innings victory at Detroit on June 28. Brown has held current Tampa Bay hitters to a .129 batting average in 31 plate appearances.Tampa Bay’s pitching has carried them during this hot stretch, limiting opponents to three or fewer runs eight times. The Rays are 3-4 in Drew Rasmussen’s seven starts when priced at lower than -110 or in the underdog role. Let’s back the Astros to end Tampa Bay’s winning streak. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting Orioles/Reds Over 9 Runs – 7:10 p.m. ETBaltimore blanked Cincinnati last night, 3-0 as the Reds were held to four hits. Cincinnati has seen the under hit in three of its past four home games, but look to turn things around tonight in Hunter Greene’s season debut on the mound.The hard-throwing right-hander returns from an elbow injury, making his first start since last September. He faces a Baltimore team that cashed the over in five of its previous six games against right-handed starting pitchers prior to Friday’s low-scoring affair.Baltimore’s Brandon Young has given up six earned runs in his past four outings, but his xERA (4.24) is over a run higher than his ERA (3.11). The Orioles own the highest hard-hit rate in MLB at 42.6, while Greene closed last season at 45% in this category, ranking in the 15th percentile.Look for runs to be scored tonight at Great American Ballpark between the Reds and Orioles. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting #Fourth #July #MLB #Betting #Picks #Predictions #Deadspin.comJul 3, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Tampa Bay Rays second baseman Ben Williamson (15) tags out Houston Astros right fielder Cam Smith (11) during the fourth inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

The Independence Day MLB card is loaded with plenty of intriguing matchups on a busy Saturday.

The Chicago Cubs (49-39) look to bounce back from Friday’s 17-1 home loss to the St. Louis Cardinals (46-39). The two NL Central rivals hook up at 8:05 p.m. ET from Wrigley Field.

Later on, the Los Angeles Dodgers (58-31) seek their third consecutive victory over the San Diego Padres (43-44) after rallying from multi-run deficits in each of the first two wins. These two teams close the night at Dodger Stadium at 10:10 p.m. ET.

We’ll break down two plays for the Saturday action. Remember to monitor the odds throughout the day, as the sides and totals market is constantly changing.

Here are the free MLB picks for Saturday, July 4. Odds Courtesy of DraftKings.

Best MLB plays today

  • Astros (-110) vs. Rays
  • Orioles/Reds Over 9 Runs

Astros (-110) vs. Rays – 7:10 p.m. ET

Tampa Bay (52-33) is riding a nine-game winning streak after holding off Houston (43-47) last night, 3-1. The Astros suffered back-to-back losses for the first time since mid-June as they try to rebound tonight with ace Hunter Brown on the mound.

Since returning from injury, Brown has allowed a total of four earned runs in three starts. The Astros have won two of three outings, capped off by an extra-innings victory at Detroit on June 28. Brown has held current Tampa Bay hitters to a .129 batting average in 31 plate appearances.

Tampa Bay’s pitching has carried them during this hot stretch, limiting opponents to three or fewer runs eight times. The Rays are 3-4 in Drew Rasmussen’s seven starts when priced at lower than -110 or in the underdog role. Let’s back the Astros to end Tampa Bay’s winning streak.

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Orioles/Reds Over 9 Runs – 7:10 p.m. ET

Baltimore blanked Cincinnati last night, 3-0 as the Reds were held to four hits. Cincinnati has seen the under hit in three of its past four home games, but look to turn things around tonight in Hunter Greene’s season debut on the mound.

The hard-throwing right-hander returns from an elbow injury, making his first start since last September. He faces a Baltimore team that cashed the over in five of its previous six games against right-handed starting pitchers prior to Friday’s low-scoring affair.

Baltimore’s Brandon Young has given up six earned runs in his past four outings, but his xERA (4.24) is over a run higher than his ERA (3.11). The Orioles own the highest hard-hit rate in MLB at 42.6, while Greene closed last season at 45% in this category, ranking in the 15th percentile.

Look for runs to be scored tonight at Great American Ballpark between the Reds and Orioles.

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The NBA world is waiting on LeBron James, and he reportedly has a short list of finalists he’s considering signing with in free agency. When will LeBron make up his mind? Who knows. He’s the top unrestricted free agent on the market by a mile despite turning 42 years old in December, and he can take as long as he pleases before he announces his next move.

Once James is off the board, the top players available will mostly be younger restricted free agents unlikely to change teams barring a surprise. Jalen Duren reportedly wants to leave the Detroit Pistons, but unfortunately for him he doesn’t have any leverage since his team has the ability to match any contract offer. Peyton Watson is in a fascinating situation because Denver probably has to cut salary elsewhere to retain him. Bennedict Mathurin is probably looking at a return to the Clippers, where he should be in line for more minutes following Los Angeles’ decision to trade Kawhi Leonard to the Raptors.

You can find every signing and trade during 2026 NBA free agency at our tracker. Now, let’s rank the best remaining free agents left on the market.

Need a pure off-ball shooter? Gary Trent Jr. might be the best available. Over the last five seasons, he’s made 38.5 percent of his three-pointers on 11.1 attempts per 100 possessions. His pull-up three ball off the dribble is less reliable after only hitting 28.6 percent of those last season.

Brown can still be a connective guard even if he’s lost the scoring juice he once showed on the 2023 champion Nuggets. He can be a low-cost shooter and defender in the backcourt who can soak up some minutes, but he doesn’t really move the needle in a major way anymore.

Williams is a 26-year-old point guard who took a leap in the second half of last season. He’s an excellent driver who can touch the paint and force his way to the foul line. His lack of size and shooting caps his value somewhat, but he feels like he could be one of the more high-upside players still available.

The idea of Kuminga as some young superstar in waiting has totally dissipated at this point. If he wants to carve out a lucrative NBA career, he’s going to need to realize he needs to improve his defense, rebounding, and spot-up shooting with his bully-ball drives as only part of the package, not the entire sell.

Payton still grades out as an impactful player because he’s an efficient scorer (63.5 percent true shooting last season) who grabs a lot of offensive rebounds for a guard and forces turnovers on defense. He’s only good for 15-20 minutes a night at this point at age-33, but he could add value for a contender on a cheapo contract.

Hachimura is big and strong for a wing with a nice spot-up three-point stroke. He made 42.6 percent of his threes during his three full years on the Lakers, but his volume wasn’t great at only 6.4 attempts per 100 possessions. He doesn’t rebound or defend all that well, and his playmaking is non-existent.

Mathurin can score in bunches, but he’s never been particularly efficient because he’s a low-ish volume 33.6 percent three-pointer shooter for his career. He can really rebound the ball for a wing. Still only 24 years old, he should get a solid deal to return to the Clippers, but probably needs to make himself more of a dirty work guy going forward.

Watson has always been a good wing defender, but he exploded as a scorer when Nikola Jokic got hurt midway through last season. Watson eventually went down with a hamstring strain that took him out of the playoffs, so there are still questions on if his improved scoring punch is actually sustainable. His shot diet features a lot of mid-range looks, but he did show some ability to knock them down at a better-than-average clip last season before the injury.

Harden opted out of his player option to give the Cavs more flexibility to try to sign LeBron James. He’s one of the best regular season guards ever, but on the brink of his 37th birthday, it’s becoming foolish to think he’ll ever avenge his playoff demons.

James is probably the second-best player in league history, and it still feels like he’s a top-50 player in the league as he readies to turn 42 years old midway through next season. I’d love to see him in Minnesota, but I still think it’s Warriors or Cavs for his future.

Will Duren consider playing on the qualifying offer to get out of Detroit? That would be massively risky if the Pistons are offering him $140 million guaranteed. Take the money, Jalen, and try to help the Pistons get to the NBA Finals next year after a deeply disappointing playoff run.

#NBAs #free #agents #wave #signings">NBA’s 11 best free agents still available in 2026 after first wave of signings The NBA world is waiting on LeBron James, and he reportedly has a short list of finalists he’s considering signing with in free agency. When will LeBron make up his mind? Who knows. He’s the top unrestricted free agent on the market by a mile despite turning 42 years old in December, and he can take as long as he pleases before he announces his next move.Once James is off the board, the top players available will mostly be younger restricted free agents unlikely to change teams barring a surprise. Jalen Duren reportedly wants to leave the Detroit Pistons, but unfortunately for him he doesn’t have any leverage since his team has the ability to match any contract offer. Peyton Watson is in a fascinating situation because Denver probably has to cut salary elsewhere to retain him. Bennedict Mathurin is probably looking at a return to the Clippers, where he should be in line for more minutes following Los Angeles’ decision to trade Kawhi Leonard to the Raptors.You can find every signing and trade during 2026 NBA free agency at our tracker. Now, let’s rank the best remaining free agents left on the market.Need a pure off-ball shooter? Gary Trent Jr. might be the best available. Over the last five seasons, he’s made 38.5 percent of his three-pointers on 11.1 attempts per 100 possessions. His pull-up three ball off the dribble is less reliable after only hitting 28.6 percent of those last season.Brown can still be a connective guard even if he’s lost the scoring juice he once showed on the 2023 champion Nuggets. He can be a low-cost shooter and defender in the backcourt who can soak up some minutes, but he doesn’t really move the needle in a major way anymore.Williams is a 26-year-old point guard who took a leap in the second half of last season. He’s an excellent driver who can touch the paint and force his way to the foul line. His lack of size and shooting caps his value somewhat, but he feels like he could be one of the more high-upside players still available.The idea of Kuminga as some young superstar in waiting has totally dissipated at this point. If he wants to carve out a lucrative NBA career, he’s going to need to realize he needs to improve his defense, rebounding, and spot-up shooting with his bully-ball drives as only part of the package, not the entire sell.Payton still grades out as an impactful player because he’s an efficient scorer (63.5 percent true shooting last season) who grabs a lot of offensive rebounds for a guard and forces turnovers on defense. He’s only good for 15-20 minutes a night at this point at age-33, but he could add value for a contender on a cheapo contract.Hachimura is big and strong for a wing with a nice spot-up three-point stroke. He made 42.6 percent of his threes during his three full years on the Lakers, but his volume wasn’t great at only 6.4 attempts per 100 possessions. He doesn’t rebound or defend all that well, and his playmaking is non-existent.Mathurin can score in bunches, but he’s never been particularly efficient because he’s a low-ish volume 33.6 percent three-pointer shooter for his career. He can really rebound the ball for a wing. Still only 24 years old, he should get a solid deal to return to the Clippers, but probably needs to make himself more of a dirty work guy going forward.Watson has always been a good wing defender, but he exploded as a scorer when Nikola Jokic got hurt midway through last season. Watson eventually went down with a hamstring strain that took him out of the playoffs, so there are still questions on if his improved scoring punch is actually sustainable. His shot diet features a lot of mid-range looks, but he did show some ability to knock them down at a better-than-average clip last season before the injury.Harden opted out of his player option to give the Cavs more flexibility to try to sign LeBron James. He’s one of the best regular season guards ever, but on the brink of his 37th birthday, it’s becoming foolish to think he’ll ever avenge his playoff demons.James is probably the second-best player in league history, and it still feels like he’s a top-50 player in the league as he readies to turn 42 years old midway through next season. I’d love to see him in Minnesota, but I still think it’s Warriors or Cavs for his future.Will Duren consider playing on the qualifying offer to get out of Detroit? That would be massively risky if the Pistons are offering him 0 million guaranteed. Take the money, Jalen, and try to help the Pistons get to the NBA Finals next year after a deeply disappointing playoff run. #NBAs #free #agents #wave #signings

reportedly has a short list of finalists he’s considering signing with in free agency. When will LeBron make up his mind? Who knows. He’s the top unrestricted free agent on the market by a mile despite turning 42 years old in December, and he can take as long as he pleases before he announces his next move.

Once James is off the board, the top players available will mostly be younger restricted free agents unlikely to change teams barring a surprise. Jalen Duren reportedly wants to leave the Detroit Pistons, but unfortunately for him he doesn’t have any leverage since his team has the ability to match any contract offer. Peyton Watson is in a fascinating situation because Denver probably has to cut salary elsewhere to retain him. Bennedict Mathurin is probably looking at a return to the Clippers, where he should be in line for more minutes following Los Angeles’ decision to trade Kawhi Leonard to the Raptors.

You can find every signing and trade during 2026 NBA free agency at our tracker. Now, let’s rank the best remaining free agents left on the market.

Need a pure off-ball shooter? Gary Trent Jr. might be the best available. Over the last five seasons, he’s made 38.5 percent of his three-pointers on 11.1 attempts per 100 possessions. His pull-up three ball off the dribble is less reliable after only hitting 28.6 percent of those last season.

Brown can still be a connective guard even if he’s lost the scoring juice he once showed on the 2023 champion Nuggets. He can be a low-cost shooter and defender in the backcourt who can soak up some minutes, but he doesn’t really move the needle in a major way anymore.

Williams is a 26-year-old point guard who took a leap in the second half of last season. He’s an excellent driver who can touch the paint and force his way to the foul line. His lack of size and shooting caps his value somewhat, but he feels like he could be one of the more high-upside players still available.

The idea of Kuminga as some young superstar in waiting has totally dissipated at this point. If he wants to carve out a lucrative NBA career, he’s going to need to realize he needs to improve his defense, rebounding, and spot-up shooting with his bully-ball drives as only part of the package, not the entire sell.

Payton still grades out as an impactful player because he’s an efficient scorer (63.5 percent true shooting last season) who grabs a lot of offensive rebounds for a guard and forces turnovers on defense. He’s only good for 15-20 minutes a night at this point at age-33, but he could add value for a contender on a cheapo contract.

Hachimura is big and strong for a wing with a nice spot-up three-point stroke. He made 42.6 percent of his threes during his three full years on the Lakers, but his volume wasn’t great at only 6.4 attempts per 100 possessions. He doesn’t rebound or defend all that well, and his playmaking is non-existent.

Mathurin can score in bunches, but he’s never been particularly efficient because he’s a low-ish volume 33.6 percent three-pointer shooter for his career. He can really rebound the ball for a wing. Still only 24 years old, he should get a solid deal to return to the Clippers, but probably needs to make himself more of a dirty work guy going forward.

Watson has always been a good wing defender, but he exploded as a scorer when Nikola Jokic got hurt midway through last season. Watson eventually went down with a hamstring strain that took him out of the playoffs, so there are still questions on if his improved scoring punch is actually sustainable. His shot diet features a lot of mid-range looks, but he did show some ability to knock them down at a better-than-average clip last season before the injury.

Harden opted out of his player option to give the Cavs more flexibility to try to sign LeBron James. He’s one of the best regular season guards ever, but on the brink of his 37th birthday, it’s becoming foolish to think he’ll ever avenge his playoff demons.

James is probably the second-best player in league history, and it still feels like he’s a top-50 player in the league as he readies to turn 42 years old midway through next season. I’d love to see him in Minnesota, but I still think it’s Warriors or Cavs for his future.

Will Duren consider playing on the qualifying offer to get out of Detroit? That would be massively risky if the Pistons are offering him $140 million guaranteed. Take the money, Jalen, and try to help the Pistons get to the NBA Finals next year after a deeply disappointing playoff run.

#NBAs #free #agents #wave #signings">NBA’s 11 best free agents still available in 2026 after first wave of signings

The NBA world is waiting on LeBron James, and he reportedly has a short list of finalists he’s considering signing with in free agency. When will LeBron make up his mind? Who knows. He’s the top unrestricted free agent on the market by a mile despite turning 42 years old in December, and he can take as long as he pleases before he announces his next move.

Once James is off the board, the top players available will mostly be younger restricted free agents unlikely to change teams barring a surprise. Jalen Duren reportedly wants to leave the Detroit Pistons, but unfortunately for him he doesn’t have any leverage since his team has the ability to match any contract offer. Peyton Watson is in a fascinating situation because Denver probably has to cut salary elsewhere to retain him. Bennedict Mathurin is probably looking at a return to the Clippers, where he should be in line for more minutes following Los Angeles’ decision to trade Kawhi Leonard to the Raptors.

You can find every signing and trade during 2026 NBA free agency at our tracker. Now, let’s rank the best remaining free agents left on the market.

Need a pure off-ball shooter? Gary Trent Jr. might be the best available. Over the last five seasons, he’s made 38.5 percent of his three-pointers on 11.1 attempts per 100 possessions. His pull-up three ball off the dribble is less reliable after only hitting 28.6 percent of those last season.

Brown can still be a connective guard even if he’s lost the scoring juice he once showed on the 2023 champion Nuggets. He can be a low-cost shooter and defender in the backcourt who can soak up some minutes, but he doesn’t really move the needle in a major way anymore.

Williams is a 26-year-old point guard who took a leap in the second half of last season. He’s an excellent driver who can touch the paint and force his way to the foul line. His lack of size and shooting caps his value somewhat, but he feels like he could be one of the more high-upside players still available.

The idea of Kuminga as some young superstar in waiting has totally dissipated at this point. If he wants to carve out a lucrative NBA career, he’s going to need to realize he needs to improve his defense, rebounding, and spot-up shooting with his bully-ball drives as only part of the package, not the entire sell.

Payton still grades out as an impactful player because he’s an efficient scorer (63.5 percent true shooting last season) who grabs a lot of offensive rebounds for a guard and forces turnovers on defense. He’s only good for 15-20 minutes a night at this point at age-33, but he could add value for a contender on a cheapo contract.

Hachimura is big and strong for a wing with a nice spot-up three-point stroke. He made 42.6 percent of his threes during his three full years on the Lakers, but his volume wasn’t great at only 6.4 attempts per 100 possessions. He doesn’t rebound or defend all that well, and his playmaking is non-existent.

Mathurin can score in bunches, but he’s never been particularly efficient because he’s a low-ish volume 33.6 percent three-pointer shooter for his career. He can really rebound the ball for a wing. Still only 24 years old, he should get a solid deal to return to the Clippers, but probably needs to make himself more of a dirty work guy going forward.

Watson has always been a good wing defender, but he exploded as a scorer when Nikola Jokic got hurt midway through last season. Watson eventually went down with a hamstring strain that took him out of the playoffs, so there are still questions on if his improved scoring punch is actually sustainable. His shot diet features a lot of mid-range looks, but he did show some ability to knock them down at a better-than-average clip last season before the injury.

Harden opted out of his player option to give the Cavs more flexibility to try to sign LeBron James. He’s one of the best regular season guards ever, but on the brink of his 37th birthday, it’s becoming foolish to think he’ll ever avenge his playoff demons.

James is probably the second-best player in league history, and it still feels like he’s a top-50 player in the league as he readies to turn 42 years old midway through next season. I’d love to see him in Minnesota, but I still think it’s Warriors or Cavs for his future.

Will Duren consider playing on the qualifying offer to get out of Detroit? That would be massively risky if the Pistons are offering him $140 million guaranteed. Take the money, Jalen, and try to help the Pistons get to the NBA Finals next year after a deeply disappointing playoff run.

#NBAs #free #agents #wave #signings

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