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NBA playoffs: LeBron James hits 19 points as Lakers beat Rockets LeBronLuke Kennard scored 27 points, and LeBron James added 19 points with 13 assists as the short-handed Los Angeles Lakers earned a 107-98 victory over the visiting Houston Rockets on ​Saturday in Game 1 of a Western Conference first-round playoff series.Deandre Ayton scored 19 points with ‌11 rebounds and Marcus Smart added 15 points with eight assists as the ​fourth-seeded Lakers won, with leading scorers Luka Doncic (hamstring) and Austin Reaves (oblique) watching from ⁠the bench.In just his seventh start since joining the Lakers from the Atlanta Hawks at the trade deadline, Kennard went nine of 13 from the floor and five of five from three-point range while ‌delivering a season high in points to fill the scoring void at guard.Alperen Sengun scored 19 points while Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard each added 17 for ‌the fifth-seeded Rockets, who were playing without leading scorer Kevin Durant (knee).Jabari Smith Jr. scored 16 ‌points ⁠with 12 rebounds and Tari Eason also had 16 points for Houston, which ⁠has lost three consecutive road games to Los Angeles since the middle of March.Nuggets 116, Timberwolves 105Nikola Jokic had 25 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists, Jamal Murray scored a game-high 30 points and host Denver Nuggets beat ​Minnesota Timberwolves to take a 1-0 lead in its first-round Western Conference playoff series.Murray was perfect from the line, hitting a career-high 16 free throws. Aaron Gordon finished with 17 points, nearly half of which came during the Nuggets’ 14-0 third-quarter run which broke a deadlock and put them in control of ‌the game after a slow start.Anthony Edwards, who was questionable after missing 11 of ​the Timberwolves’ final 14 regular-season games with right knee issues, led Minnesota with 22 points. Rudy Gobert produced 17 points and 10 rebounds for the Timberwolves, who ⁠led by as many as 12 points in the first quarter.Knicks 113, Hawks 102Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby hit 3-pointers on consecutive possessions to start the decisive third-quarter run for host ‌New York Knicks, which pulled away for a win over the Hawks in Game 1 of an Eastern Conference quarterfinal series.Jalen Brunson scored 19 of his game-high 28 points in the first quarter for the third-seeded Knicks, who reached the Eastern Conference finals last year for the first time since 2000. Towns finished with 25 points and was 10 of 10 from the free throw line, while Anunoby collected 18 points.CJ McCollum scored 26 points for the Hawks, who ‌earned the sixth seed in their first trip to the playoffs since 2023. Jalen Johnson had 23 points ​while Onyeka Okongwu (19) and Nickeil Alexander-Walker (17) each scored in double figures.Cavaliers 126, Raptors 113Donovan Mitchell scored 32 points, and James Harden added 22 points and 10 assists, powering the Cavaliers to a victory over visiting Raptors in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round series.Max ⁠Strus had 24 points off the bench, and Evan Mobley scored 17 for the fourth-seeded Cavaliers, who have won 11 straight playoff games over the Raptors. Game 2 ‌is Monday in Cleveland, where the Raptors are 0-8 all-time in the postseason.RJ Barrett scored 24 points, and Scottie Barnes contributed 21 points and seven assists for the fifth-seeded Raptors. ​Brandon Ingram added 17 points, and Jamal Shead had 17 points in his playoff debut, starting for injured guard Immanuel Quickley (right hamstring strain).Published on Apr 19, 2026 #NBA #playoffs #LeBron #James #hits #points #Lakers #beat #Rockets

NBA playoffs: LeBron James hits 19 points as Lakers beat Rockets

LeBronLuke Kennard scored 27 points, and LeBron James added 19 points with 13 assists as the short-handed Los Angeles Lakers earned a 107-98 victory over the visiting Houston Rockets on ​Saturday in Game 1 of a Western Conference first-round playoff series.

Deandre Ayton scored 19 points with ‌11 rebounds and Marcus Smart added 15 points with eight assists as the ​fourth-seeded Lakers won, with leading scorers Luka Doncic (hamstring) and Austin Reaves (oblique) watching from ⁠the bench.

In just his seventh start since joining the Lakers from the Atlanta Hawks at the trade deadline, Kennard went nine of 13 from the floor and five of five from three-point range while ‌delivering a season high in points to fill the scoring void at guard.

Alperen Sengun scored 19 points while Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard each added 17 for ‌the fifth-seeded Rockets, who were playing without leading scorer Kevin Durant (knee).

Jabari Smith Jr. scored 16 ‌points ⁠with 12 rebounds and Tari Eason also had 16 points for Houston, which ⁠has lost three consecutive road games to Los Angeles since the middle of March.

Nuggets 116, Timberwolves 105

Nikola Jokic had 25 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists, Jamal Murray scored a game-high 30 points and host Denver Nuggets beat ​Minnesota Timberwolves to take a 1-0 lead in its first-round Western Conference playoff series.

Murray was perfect from the line, hitting a career-high 16 free throws. Aaron Gordon finished with 17 points, nearly half of which came during the Nuggets’ 14-0 third-quarter run which broke a deadlock and put them in control of ‌the game after a slow start.

Anthony Edwards, who was questionable after missing 11 of ​the Timberwolves’ final 14 regular-season games with right knee issues, led Minnesota with 22 points. Rudy Gobert produced 17 points and 10 rebounds for the Timberwolves, who ⁠led by as many as 12 points in the first quarter.

Knicks 113, Hawks 102

Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby hit 3-pointers on consecutive possessions to start the decisive third-quarter run for host ‌New York Knicks, which pulled away for a win over the Hawks in Game 1 of an Eastern Conference quarterfinal series.

Jalen Brunson scored 19 of his game-high 28 points in the first quarter for the third-seeded Knicks, who reached the Eastern Conference finals last year for the first time since 2000. Towns finished with 25 points and was 10 of 10 from the free throw line, while Anunoby collected 18 points.

CJ McCollum scored 26 points for the Hawks, who ‌earned the sixth seed in their first trip to the playoffs since 2023. Jalen Johnson had 23 points ​while Onyeka Okongwu (19) and Nickeil Alexander-Walker (17) each scored in double figures.

Cavaliers 126, Raptors 113

Donovan Mitchell scored 32 points, and James Harden added 22 points and 10 assists, powering the Cavaliers to a victory over visiting Raptors in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round series.

Max ⁠Strus had 24 points off the bench, and Evan Mobley scored 17 for the fourth-seeded Cavaliers, who have won 11 straight playoff games over the Raptors. Game 2 ‌is Monday in Cleveland, where the Raptors are 0-8 all-time in the postseason.

RJ Barrett scored 24 points, and Scottie Barnes contributed 21 points and seven assists for the fifth-seeded Raptors. ​Brandon Ingram added 17 points, and Jamal Shead had 17 points in his playoff debut, starting for injured guard Immanuel Quickley (right hamstring strain).

Published on Apr 19, 2026

#NBA #playoffs #LeBron #James #hits #points #Lakers #beat #Rockets

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LeBronLuke Kennard scored 27 points, and LeBron James added 19 points with 13 assists as the short-handed Los Angeles Lakers earned a 107-98 victory over the visiting Houston Rockets on ​Saturday in Game 1 of a Western Conference first-round playoff series.

Deandre Ayton scored 19 points with ‌11 rebounds and Marcus Smart added 15 points with eight assists as the ​fourth-seeded Lakers won, with leading scorers Luka Doncic (hamstring) and Austin Reaves (oblique) watching from ⁠the bench.

In just his seventh start since joining the Lakers from the Atlanta Hawks at the trade deadline, Kennard went nine of 13 from the floor and five of five from three-point range while ‌delivering a season high in points to fill the scoring void at guard.

Alperen Sengun scored 19 points while Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard each added 17 for ‌the fifth-seeded Rockets, who were playing without leading scorer Kevin Durant (knee).

Jabari Smith Jr. scored 16 ‌points ⁠with 12 rebounds and Tari Eason also had 16 points for Houston, which ⁠has lost three consecutive road games to Los Angeles since the middle of March.

Nuggets 116, Timberwolves 105

Nikola Jokic had 25 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists, Jamal Murray scored a game-high 30 points and host Denver Nuggets beat ​Minnesota Timberwolves to take a 1-0 lead in its first-round Western Conference playoff series.

Murray was perfect from the line, hitting a career-high 16 free throws. Aaron Gordon finished with 17 points, nearly half of which came during the Nuggets’ 14-0 third-quarter run which broke a deadlock and put them in control of ‌the game after a slow start.

Anthony Edwards, who was questionable after missing 11 of ​the Timberwolves’ final 14 regular-season games with right knee issues, led Minnesota with 22 points. Rudy Gobert produced 17 points and 10 rebounds for the Timberwolves, who ⁠led by as many as 12 points in the first quarter.

Knicks 113, Hawks 102

Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby hit 3-pointers on consecutive possessions to start the decisive third-quarter run for host ‌New York Knicks, which pulled away for a win over the Hawks in Game 1 of an Eastern Conference quarterfinal series.

Jalen Brunson scored 19 of his game-high 28 points in the first quarter for the third-seeded Knicks, who reached the Eastern Conference finals last year for the first time since 2000. Towns finished with 25 points and was 10 of 10 from the free throw line, while Anunoby collected 18 points.

CJ McCollum scored 26 points for the Hawks, who ‌earned the sixth seed in their first trip to the playoffs since 2023. Jalen Johnson had 23 points ​while Onyeka Okongwu (19) and Nickeil Alexander-Walker (17) each scored in double figures.

Cavaliers 126, Raptors 113

Donovan Mitchell scored 32 points, and James Harden added 22 points and 10 assists, powering the Cavaliers to a victory over visiting Raptors in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round series.

Max ⁠Strus had 24 points off the bench, and Evan Mobley scored 17 for the fourth-seeded Cavaliers, who have won 11 straight playoff games over the Raptors. Game 2 ‌is Monday in Cleveland, where the Raptors are 0-8 all-time in the postseason.

RJ Barrett scored 24 points, and Scottie Barnes contributed 21 points and seven assists for the fifth-seeded Raptors. ​Brandon Ingram added 17 points, and Jamal Shead had 17 points in his playoff debut, starting for injured guard Immanuel Quickley (right hamstring strain).

Published on Apr 19, 2026

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Deadspin | NHL roundup: Flyers win Game 1 of in-state playoff series vs. Penguins <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28764588.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28764588.jpg" alt="NHL: Stanley Cup Playoffs-Philadelphia Flyers at Pittsburgh Penguins" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 18, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Travis Sanheim (6) celebrates his goal with the Flyers bench against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the third period in game one of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Porter Martone scored a timely goal late for the Philadelphia Flyers, who skated away with a 3-2 road victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins to take a 1-0 lead in their best-of-seven, first-round playoff series on Saturday night.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Martone, a 19-year-old playing in his 10th NHL game, scored an insurance goal to make it 3-1 with 2:37 left in the Battle of Pennsylvania rivalry series. That proved crucial when the Penguins’ Bryan Rust found the net with 1:01 left.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Travis Sanheim and Jamie Drysdale also scored for Philadelphia in the franchise’s first playoff game in six years. The Flyers got 15 saves from Dan Vladar in his playoff debut, including one on a point-blank shot from Anthony Mantha in the closing seconds.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Evgeni Malkin scored his 68th postseason goal for the Penguins and assisted on Rust’s goal. Stuart Skinner made 17 saves. Game 2 is Monday in Pittsburgh.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Wild 6, Stars 1</p> </section><br/><section id="section-7"> <p>Matt Boldy had two goals and an assist for visiting Minnesota in a win against Dallas in Game 1 of their Western Conference first-round series.</p> </section> <section id="section-8"> <p>Kirill Kaprizov had a goal and two assists, Joel Eriksson Ek scored twice, Ryan Hartman had a goal and an assist and Mats Zuccarello had three assists for the Wild, who are trying to win their first playoff series since 2015 after getting eliminated in the opening round eight times since then. Rookie Jesper Wallstedt got the start and made 27 saves.</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>Jason Robertson scored and Jake Oettinger made 23 saves for Dallas, which lost Game 1 of its first-round series 5-1 against the Colorado Avalanche last season before rebounding and eventually reaching the Western Conference finals. Game 2 is Monday in Dallas.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>Hurricanes 2, Senators 0</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>Frederik Andersen made 22 saves and Logan Stankoven had a goal and an assist as Carolina overcame a slow start to defeat Ottawa in the opener of the first-round series in Raleigh, N.C.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>Andersen recorded his sixth career playoff shutout after not having any in 35 regular-season starts this season. Taylor Hall also scored and Jackson Blake had two assists for the Hurricanes.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>Linus Ullmark made 27 saves for the Senators, who saw 13 of their 22 shots on goal come in the third period but were unable to get on the board, even with a late power-play opportunity. Game 2 is Monday in Raleigh.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-14"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #NHL #roundup #Flyers #win #Game #instate #playoff #series #Penguins

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Deadspin | Cody Bellinger hits 2 of Yanks’ 4 HRs in rout of Royals <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28758987.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28758987.jpg" alt="MLB: Kansas City Royals at New York Yankees" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 18, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees center fielder Cody Bellinger (35) hits a two run home run against the Kansas City Royals during the third inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Cody Bellinger homered twice and collected five RBIs as the New York Yankees easily recorded a 13-4 victory over the visiting Kansas City Royals on Saturday afternoon.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>The Yankees notched their most lopsided win this season after their previous five victories were decided in the final at-bat.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Amed Rosario hit a two-run homer and Ben Rice hit a solo shot during a five-run third off Kansas City left-hander Noah Cameron (1-1).</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Rosario started the scoring with his two-run blast to left after a three-base error by Kansas City center fielder Kyle Isbel.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>J.C. Escarra hit a fly ball to the warning track in center field, and the ball was not caught when Isbel and right fielder Jac Caglianone converged. Isbel knocked the ball out of Caglianone’s glove and was charged with a three-base error.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>After Rosario’s homer, Aaron Judge walked, then Bellinger sent a first-pitch slider into the second deck in right. Rice homered two batters later when he hit a fastball into the right field seats for his third straight game with a homer.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-7"> <p>Bellinger homered again in the sixth off Mitch Spence for a 10-0 lead. It was Bellinger’s 20th career multi-homer game and his eighth game with at least five RBIs.</p> </section> <section id="section-8"> <p>Bellinger also had an RBI single in between homers. Rosario added a run-scoring single in the sixth and Escarra contributed an RBI double in the fourth.</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>Escarra also drove in two with his first career triple in the seventh as the Yankees collected 11 hits. Randal Grichuk added a sacrifice fly in the eighth for his first RBI with New York.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>New York’s Will Warren (2-0) allowed two runs on five hits in seven innings. The right-hander matched a career-high with 11 strikeouts and walked none.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>The Royals dropped their sixth straight. Kansas City was blanked until Carter Jensen hit a two-run homer in the seventh and got a two-run double from Michael Massey in the ninth.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>Cameron was shelled for a career-worst seven runs (five earned) on seven hits in four innings.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro was tossed by second base umpire Nestor Ceja before Cameron threw a pitch after the Royals batted in the first.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-14"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #Cody #Bellinger #hits #Yanks #HRs #rout #Royals

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Four Teams That Are Winning 2026 NFL Draft So Far | Deadspin.com Feb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (QB11) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images The first round of the NFL draft is in the books and six more chapters are coming in rapid-fire sequence on Friday and Saturday in Pittsburgh.So far, only five teams are holding an A based on our instant reaction grades.Take a look, but remember the chance for a team to improve their score is right around the corner.Las Vegas RaidersThe Pick: QB Fernando Mendoza, IndianaPicking nits is part of the reality of the draft process and until Mendoza wins in the NFL, there will be doubts, concerns and detractors. With Tom Brady in the room and former Michigan teammate John Spytek in the lead personnel role, the Raiders know a turnaround from 3-14 and 23 straight seasons watching someone else celebrate the AFC West division title requires a winner at QB. Mendoza was 16-0 last season, won the Heisman and now carries the flag as the No. 1 pick into his first professional gig. He’s a great starting point, but the brass also knows this can’t be a one-man band. We’re giving the Raiders an A for now with the potential to slice their final score based on what other help they provide Mendoza in this draft.New York GiantsThe Picks: OLB Avrell Reese, Ohio State; OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Reese might prove to be the best value in the first round if the Micah Parsons comparisons are anywhere near on the mark. Mauigoa won’t need much time to endear himself to the Giants and quarterback Jaxson Dart. In the bigger picture, the Giants made massive improvements with these two moves and most of the interior defensive lineman on the team’s radar — none ready to replace Dexter Lawrence off the plane, of course — are still on the board.Tampa Bay BuccaneersThe Pick: DE Rueben Bain Jr., MiamiDripping with Warren Sapp vibes, the modernized remake tale of Tampa catching a falling star in the draft could play out much the same way it did with the Hurricane-turned-Bucs Hall of Famer Sapp. Bain is an on-brand selection for GM Jason Licht, who has a stellar draft record and walked right into a no-brainer with Bain. Is he a perfect fit at any NFL position? Not exactly. If he walking into the NFL with a briefcase overflowing with elite-level college production and temperament that spells greatness? Yessir.Seattle SeahawksThe Pick: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame Oct 4, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) runs for a touchdown against the Boise State Broncos during the second half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images GM John Schneider entered the 2026 draft with some context flowing behind his Super Bowl championship cape: he needed a running back (Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III signed with the Chiefs in free agency); likely will have to add multiple cornerbacks; and has the reputation for embracing offers to trade down, an idea he brought up himself before the draft because the Seahawks had only four picks entering Thursday night. Well, something happened on the way to the Schneider kneeldown plan Thursday night. In a pick we called with our final mock draft, Schneider sidled up to our No. 2-ranked running back, Notre Dame backup Jadarian Price, with Walker gone and Zach Charbonnet likely out for the first half of the 2026 season. Yes, there are other needs. But for added context, consider where Schneider has historically found starting-caliber cornerbacks. Josh Jobe is currently a starter. He entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, was waived by the Eagles and signed to the Seattle practice squad before earning his keep. Nehemiah Pritchett is currently a backup drafted by the Seahawks in the fifth round in 2024. Richard Sherman is now a talking head, but he got his start with Seattle as a fifth-round pick in 2011. That same year (2011), Schneider brought in a CFL veteran — Brandon Browner — who spent three years with the Seahawks and won consecutive Super Bowls with Seattle and then the Patriots. #Teams #Winning #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.comFeb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (QB11) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

The first round of the NFL draft is in the books and six more chapters are coming in rapid-fire sequence on Friday and Saturday in Pittsburgh.

So far, only five teams are holding an A based on our instant reaction grades.

Take a look, but remember the chance for a team to improve their score is right around the corner.

Las Vegas Raiders

The Pick: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

Picking nits is part of the reality of the draft process and until Mendoza wins in the NFL, there will be doubts, concerns and detractors. With Tom Brady in the room and former Michigan teammate John Spytek in the lead personnel role, the Raiders know a turnaround from 3-14 and 23 straight seasons watching someone else celebrate the AFC West division title requires a winner at QB. Mendoza was 16-0 last season, won the Heisman and now carries the flag as the No. 1 pick into his first professional gig. He’s a great starting point, but the brass also knows this can’t be a one-man band. We’re giving the Raiders an A for now with the potential to slice their final score based on what other help they provide Mendoza in this draft.

New York Giants

The Picks: OLB Avrell Reese, Ohio State; OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami

Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn ImagesDec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Reese might prove to be the best value in the first round if the Micah Parsons comparisons are anywhere near on the mark. Mauigoa won’t need much time to endear himself to the Giants and quarterback Jaxson Dart. In the bigger picture, the Giants made massive improvements with these two moves and most of the interior defensive lineman on the team’s radar — none ready to replace Dexter Lawrence off the plane, of course — are still on the board.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Pick: DE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami

Dripping with Warren Sapp vibes, the modernized remake tale of Tampa catching a falling star in the draft could play out much the same way it did with the Hurricane-turned-Bucs Hall of Famer Sapp. Bain is an on-brand selection for GM Jason Licht, who has a stellar draft record and walked right into a no-brainer with Bain. Is he a perfect fit at any NFL position? Not exactly. If he walking into the NFL with a briefcase overflowing with elite-level college production and temperament that spells greatness? Yessir.

Seattle Seahawks

The Pick: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame

Oct 4, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) runs for a touchdown against the Boise State Broncos during the second half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn ImagesOct 4, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) runs for a touchdown against the Boise State Broncos during the second half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images

GM John Schneider entered the 2026 draft with some context flowing behind his Super Bowl championship cape: he needed a running back (Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III signed with the Chiefs in free agency); likely will have to add multiple cornerbacks; and has the reputation for embracing offers to trade down, an idea he brought up himself before the draft because the Seahawks had only four picks entering Thursday night. Well, something happened on the way to the Schneider kneeldown plan Thursday night. 

In a pick we called with our final mock draft, Schneider sidled up to our No. 2-ranked running back, Notre Dame backup Jadarian Price, with Walker gone and Zach Charbonnet likely out for the first half of the 2026 season. Yes, there are other needs. But for added context, consider where Schneider has historically found starting-caliber cornerbacks. Josh Jobe is currently a starter. 

He entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, was waived by the Eagles and signed to the Seattle practice squad before earning his keep. Nehemiah Pritchett is currently a backup drafted by the Seahawks in the fifth round in 2024. Richard Sherman is now a talking head, but he got his start with Seattle as a fifth-round pick in 2011. That same year (2011), Schneider brought in a CFL veteran — Brandon Browner — who spent three years with the Seahawks and won consecutive Super Bowls with Seattle and then the Patriots.

#Teams #Winning #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com">Four Teams That Are Winning 2026 NFL Draft So Far | Deadspin.com Feb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (QB11) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images The first round of the NFL draft is in the books and six more chapters are coming in rapid-fire sequence on Friday and Saturday in Pittsburgh.So far, only five teams are holding an A based on our instant reaction grades.Take a look, but remember the chance for a team to improve their score is right around the corner.Las Vegas RaidersThe Pick: QB Fernando Mendoza, IndianaPicking nits is part of the reality of the draft process and until Mendoza wins in the NFL, there will be doubts, concerns and detractors. With Tom Brady in the room and former Michigan teammate John Spytek in the lead personnel role, the Raiders know a turnaround from 3-14 and 23 straight seasons watching someone else celebrate the AFC West division title requires a winner at QB. Mendoza was 16-0 last season, won the Heisman and now carries the flag as the No. 1 pick into his first professional gig. He’s a great starting point, but the brass also knows this can’t be a one-man band. We’re giving the Raiders an A for now with the potential to slice their final score based on what other help they provide Mendoza in this draft.New York GiantsThe Picks: OLB Avrell Reese, Ohio State; OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Reese might prove to be the best value in the first round if the Micah Parsons comparisons are anywhere near on the mark. Mauigoa won’t need much time to endear himself to the Giants and quarterback Jaxson Dart. In the bigger picture, the Giants made massive improvements with these two moves and most of the interior defensive lineman on the team’s radar — none ready to replace Dexter Lawrence off the plane, of course — are still on the board.Tampa Bay BuccaneersThe Pick: DE Rueben Bain Jr., MiamiDripping with Warren Sapp vibes, the modernized remake tale of Tampa catching a falling star in the draft could play out much the same way it did with the Hurricane-turned-Bucs Hall of Famer Sapp. Bain is an on-brand selection for GM Jason Licht, who has a stellar draft record and walked right into a no-brainer with Bain. Is he a perfect fit at any NFL position? Not exactly. If he walking into the NFL with a briefcase overflowing with elite-level college production and temperament that spells greatness? Yessir.Seattle SeahawksThe Pick: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame Oct 4, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) runs for a touchdown against the Boise State Broncos during the second half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images GM John Schneider entered the 2026 draft with some context flowing behind his Super Bowl championship cape: he needed a running back (Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III signed with the Chiefs in free agency); likely will have to add multiple cornerbacks; and has the reputation for embracing offers to trade down, an idea he brought up himself before the draft because the Seahawks had only four picks entering Thursday night. Well, something happened on the way to the Schneider kneeldown plan Thursday night. In a pick we called with our final mock draft, Schneider sidled up to our No. 2-ranked running back, Notre Dame backup Jadarian Price, with Walker gone and Zach Charbonnet likely out for the first half of the 2026 season. Yes, there are other needs. But for added context, consider where Schneider has historically found starting-caliber cornerbacks. Josh Jobe is currently a starter. He entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, was waived by the Eagles and signed to the Seattle practice squad before earning his keep. Nehemiah Pritchett is currently a backup drafted by the Seahawks in the fifth round in 2024. Richard Sherman is now a talking head, but he got his start with Seattle as a fifth-round pick in 2011. That same year (2011), Schneider brought in a CFL veteran — Brandon Browner — who spent three years with the Seahawks and won consecutive Super Bowls with Seattle and then the Patriots. #Teams #Winning #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com

as the No. 1 pick into his first professional gig. He’s a great starting point, but the brass also knows this can’t be a one-man band. We’re giving the Raiders an A for now with the potential to slice their final score based on what other help they provide Mendoza in this draft.

New York Giants

The Picks: OLB Avrell Reese, Ohio State; OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami

Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn ImagesDec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Reese might prove to be the best value in the first round if the Micah Parsons comparisons are anywhere near on the mark. Mauigoa won’t need much time to endear himself to the Giants and quarterback Jaxson Dart. In the bigger picture, the Giants made massive improvements with these two moves and most of the interior defensive lineman on the team’s radar — none ready to replace Dexter Lawrence off the plane, of course — are still on the board.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Pick: DE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami

Dripping with Warren Sapp vibes, the modernized remake tale of Tampa catching a falling star in the draft could play out much the same way it did with the Hurricane-turned-Bucs Hall of Famer Sapp. Bain is an on-brand selection for GM Jason Licht, who has a stellar draft record and walked right into a no-brainer with Bain. Is he a perfect fit at any NFL position? Not exactly. If he walking into the NFL with a briefcase overflowing with elite-level college production and temperament that spells greatness? Yessir.

Seattle Seahawks

The Pick: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame

Oct 4, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) runs for a touchdown against the Boise State Broncos during the second half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn ImagesOct 4, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) runs for a touchdown against the Boise State Broncos during the second half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images

GM John Schneider entered the 2026 draft with some context flowing behind his Super Bowl championship cape: he needed a running back (Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III signed with the Chiefs in free agency); likely will have to add multiple cornerbacks; and has the reputation for embracing offers to trade down, an idea he brought up himself before the draft because the Seahawks had only four picks entering Thursday night. Well, something happened on the way to the Schneider kneeldown plan Thursday night. 

In a pick we called with our final mock draft, Schneider sidled up to our No. 2-ranked running back, Notre Dame backup Jadarian Price, with Walker gone and Zach Charbonnet likely out for the first half of the 2026 season. Yes, there are other needs. But for added context, consider where Schneider has historically found starting-caliber cornerbacks. Josh Jobe is currently a starter. 

He entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, was waived by the Eagles and signed to the Seattle practice squad before earning his keep. Nehemiah Pritchett is currently a backup drafted by the Seahawks in the fifth round in 2024. Richard Sherman is now a talking head, but he got his start with Seattle as a fifth-round pick in 2011. That same year (2011), Schneider brought in a CFL veteran — Brandon Browner — who spent three years with the Seahawks and won consecutive Super Bowls with Seattle and then the Patriots.

#Teams #Winning #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com">Four Teams That Are Winning 2026 NFL Draft So Far | Deadspin.com
Four Teams That Are Winning 2026 NFL Draft So Far | Deadspin.com Feb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (QB11) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images The first round of the NFL draft is in the books and six more chapters are coming in rapid-fire sequence on Friday and Saturday in Pittsburgh.So far, only five teams are holding an A based on our instant reaction grades.Take a look, but remember the chance for a team to improve their score is right around the corner.Las Vegas RaidersThe Pick: QB Fernando Mendoza, IndianaPicking nits is part of the reality of the draft process and until Mendoza wins in the NFL, there will be doubts, concerns and detractors. With Tom Brady in the room and former Michigan teammate John Spytek in the lead personnel role, the Raiders know a turnaround from 3-14 and 23 straight seasons watching someone else celebrate the AFC West division title requires a winner at QB. Mendoza was 16-0 last season, won the Heisman and now carries the flag as the No. 1 pick into his first professional gig. He’s a great starting point, but the brass also knows this can’t be a one-man band. We’re giving the Raiders an A for now with the potential to slice their final score based on what other help they provide Mendoza in this draft.New York GiantsThe Picks: OLB Avrell Reese, Ohio State; OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Reese might prove to be the best value in the first round if the Micah Parsons comparisons are anywhere near on the mark. Mauigoa won’t need much time to endear himself to the Giants and quarterback Jaxson Dart. In the bigger picture, the Giants made massive improvements with these two moves and most of the interior defensive lineman on the team’s radar — none ready to replace Dexter Lawrence off the plane, of course — are still on the board.Tampa Bay BuccaneersThe Pick: DE Rueben Bain Jr., MiamiDripping with Warren Sapp vibes, the modernized remake tale of Tampa catching a falling star in the draft could play out much the same way it did with the Hurricane-turned-Bucs Hall of Famer Sapp. Bain is an on-brand selection for GM Jason Licht, who has a stellar draft record and walked right into a no-brainer with Bain. Is he a perfect fit at any NFL position? Not exactly. If he walking into the NFL with a briefcase overflowing with elite-level college production and temperament that spells greatness? Yessir.Seattle SeahawksThe Pick: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame Oct 4, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) runs for a touchdown against the Boise State Broncos during the second half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images GM John Schneider entered the 2026 draft with some context flowing behind his Super Bowl championship cape: he needed a running back (Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III signed with the Chiefs in free agency); likely will have to add multiple cornerbacks; and has the reputation for embracing offers to trade down, an idea he brought up himself before the draft because the Seahawks had only four picks entering Thursday night. Well, something happened on the way to the Schneider kneeldown plan Thursday night. In a pick we called with our final mock draft, Schneider sidled up to our No. 2-ranked running back, Notre Dame backup Jadarian Price, with Walker gone and Zach Charbonnet likely out for the first half of the 2026 season. Yes, there are other needs. But for added context, consider where Schneider has historically found starting-caliber cornerbacks. Josh Jobe is currently a starter. He entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, was waived by the Eagles and signed to the Seattle practice squad before earning his keep. Nehemiah Pritchett is currently a backup drafted by the Seahawks in the fifth round in 2024. Richard Sherman is now a talking head, but he got his start with Seattle as a fifth-round pick in 2011. That same year (2011), Schneider brought in a CFL veteran — Brandon Browner — who spent three years with the Seahawks and won consecutive Super Bowls with Seattle and then the Patriots. #Teams #Winning #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.comFeb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza (QB11) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

The first round of the NFL draft is in the books and six more chapters are coming in rapid-fire sequence on Friday and Saturday in Pittsburgh.

So far, only five teams are holding an A based on our instant reaction grades.

Take a look, but remember the chance for a team to improve their score is right around the corner.

Las Vegas Raiders

The Pick: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

Picking nits is part of the reality of the draft process and until Mendoza wins in the NFL, there will be doubts, concerns and detractors. With Tom Brady in the room and former Michigan teammate John Spytek in the lead personnel role, the Raiders know a turnaround from 3-14 and 23 straight seasons watching someone else celebrate the AFC West division title requires a winner at QB. Mendoza was 16-0 last season, won the Heisman and now carries the flag as the No. 1 pick into his first professional gig. He’s a great starting point, but the brass also knows this can’t be a one-man band. We’re giving the Raiders an A for now with the potential to slice their final score based on what other help they provide Mendoza in this draft.

New York Giants

The Picks: OLB Avrell Reese, Ohio State; OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami

Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn ImagesDec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Reese might prove to be the best value in the first round if the Micah Parsons comparisons are anywhere near on the mark. Mauigoa won’t need much time to endear himself to the Giants and quarterback Jaxson Dart. In the bigger picture, the Giants made massive improvements with these two moves and most of the interior defensive lineman on the team’s radar — none ready to replace Dexter Lawrence off the plane, of course — are still on the board.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Pick: DE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami

Dripping with Warren Sapp vibes, the modernized remake tale of Tampa catching a falling star in the draft could play out much the same way it did with the Hurricane-turned-Bucs Hall of Famer Sapp. Bain is an on-brand selection for GM Jason Licht, who has a stellar draft record and walked right into a no-brainer with Bain. Is he a perfect fit at any NFL position? Not exactly. If he walking into the NFL with a briefcase overflowing with elite-level college production and temperament that spells greatness? Yessir.

Seattle Seahawks

The Pick: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame

Oct 4, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) runs for a touchdown against the Boise State Broncos during the second half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn ImagesOct 4, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) runs for a touchdown against the Boise State Broncos during the second half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images

GM John Schneider entered the 2026 draft with some context flowing behind his Super Bowl championship cape: he needed a running back (Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III signed with the Chiefs in free agency); likely will have to add multiple cornerbacks; and has the reputation for embracing offers to trade down, an idea he brought up himself before the draft because the Seahawks had only four picks entering Thursday night. Well, something happened on the way to the Schneider kneeldown plan Thursday night. 

In a pick we called with our final mock draft, Schneider sidled up to our No. 2-ranked running back, Notre Dame backup Jadarian Price, with Walker gone and Zach Charbonnet likely out for the first half of the 2026 season. Yes, there are other needs. But for added context, consider where Schneider has historically found starting-caliber cornerbacks. Josh Jobe is currently a starter. 

He entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, was waived by the Eagles and signed to the Seattle practice squad before earning his keep. Nehemiah Pritchett is currently a backup drafted by the Seahawks in the fifth round in 2024. Richard Sherman is now a talking head, but he got his start with Seattle as a fifth-round pick in 2011. That same year (2011), Schneider brought in a CFL veteran — Brandon Browner — who spent three years with the Seahawks and won consecutive Super Bowls with Seattle and then the Patriots.

#Teams #Winning #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com

Rajasthan Royals’ Vaibhav Sooryavanshi limped off the field injured during the IPL 2026 encounter against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Saturday.

The 15-year-old went down clutching his hamstring after the third over of SRH’s chase of 229 and was helped off the field by the physio.

Sooryavanshi had blazed his way to a second IPL century in the first essay to help his side post a 220-plus total in Jaipur. He got to three figures off just 36 balls, one ball slower than his previous fastest last season.

He also became the youngest player to cross 1000 T20 runs en route the majestic ton at his franchise’s home stadium.

Published on Apr 25, 2026

#Vaibhav #Sooryavanshi #walks #injured #Rajasthan #Royals #Sunrisers #Hyderabad #IPL #contest">Vaibhav Sooryavanshi walks off injured in Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad IPL 2026 contest Rajasthan Royals’ Vaibhav Sooryavanshi limped off the field injured during the IPL 2026 encounter against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Saturday.The 15-year-old went down clutching his hamstring after the third over of SRH’s chase of 229 and was helped off the field by the physio.Sooryavanshi had blazed his way to a second IPL century in the first essay to help his side post a 220-plus total in Jaipur. He got to three figures off just 36 balls, one ball slower than his previous fastest last season.He also became the youngest player to cross 1000 T20 runs en route the majestic ton at his franchise’s home stadium.Published on Apr 25, 2026 #Vaibhav #Sooryavanshi #walks #injured #Rajasthan #Royals #Sunrisers #Hyderabad #IPL #contest

Deadspin | Light-hitting Reds chase 4th straight series win in matchup vs. Tigers Apr 24, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds outfielder Rece Hinds (57) runs to second after hitting a double in the sixth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images The Cincinnati Reds will look to clinch their fourth consecutive series victory Saturday night when they host the Detroit Tigers in the second contest of a three-game set. The Reds are off to their best start (17-9) in the first 26 games of the season since beginning 18-8 in 2006. Fueled by a balanced lineup, manager Terry Francona’s upstart club has won eight of its past 10 outings. Cincinnati refused to allow a nearly two-hour rain delay to hinder a five-run rally, fighting back to earn a 9-8 win over Detroit thanks to Nathaniel Lowe’s two-run, walk-off homer on Friday. Offensively, the National League Central-leading Reds don’t have a player hitting .300. In fact, the Reds have an MLB-worst .210 average. So how are they doing it? It’s been a group effort, according to Francona. “I think that’s the team we need to be,” he said. “Sal (Stewart) kind of carried us for a while there, but if we start getting contributions all over the map, that will really help us.” Stewart is hitting .284, and his eight home runs are tied with Elly De La Cruz for the team lead. Brady Singer (1-1, 5.32 ERA) will get the ball for the Reds on Saturday, hoping to build off a pair of solid starts. Since allowing five earned runs on 10 hits across just 2 2/3 innings in a loss to the Miami Marlins on April 8, the 29-year-old right-hander has responded with back-to-back quality starts. Last time out, Singer surrendered three runs across six frames in a no-decision Sunday against the Minnesota Twins. The Reds won 7-4 in 10 innings. “He hung around for six innings, threw 100 pitches, gave up three (runs) where that could have easily been five or six,” Francona said of Singer’s outing. “He battled his rear-end off.” A longtime American League Central rival of Detroit as a member of the Kansas City Royals, Singer is 7-1 with a 3.16 ERA in 14 career starts against the Tigers. Detroit appeared on its way to an 11th win in 14 tries on Friday before squandering a 5-0 advantage. The Tigers hit four home runs in the series opener, including the third in as many games from first baseman Spencer Torkelson. After a lackluster start to the year, Torkelson has seen his batting average (.210) slowly tick up. “He just brings a different element to the lineup,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “We can slug. Obviously, we can be streaky, too. … This is a guy that’s moved down in the order, but he just lengthens our lineup and provides a huge threat.” Veteran right-hander Jack Flaherty (0-1, 3.47 ERA) will make his sixth start of the season for Detroit still in search of his first victory. Flaherty, 30, is averaging just 4 2/3 innings per start and lasted only 3 1/3 in a no-decision in an 8-6 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Monday. He allowed two unearned runs but walked six batters — his most since walking six against the Milwaukee Brewers on April 7, 2023. In 11 career starts against the Reds, Flaherty is 3-3 with a 4.53 ERA. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Lighthitting #Reds #chase #4th #straight #series #win #matchup #TigersApr 24, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds outfielder Rece Hinds (57) runs to second after hitting a double in the sixth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

The Cincinnati Reds will look to clinch their fourth consecutive series victory Saturday night when they host the Detroit Tigers in the second contest of a three-game set.

The Reds are off to their best start (17-9) in the first 26 games of the season since beginning 18-8 in 2006. Fueled by a balanced lineup, manager Terry Francona’s upstart club has won eight of its past 10 outings.

Cincinnati refused to allow a nearly two-hour rain delay to hinder a five-run rally, fighting back to earn a 9-8 win over Detroit thanks to Nathaniel Lowe’s two-run, walk-off homer on Friday.

Offensively, the National League Central-leading Reds don’t have a player hitting .300. In fact, the Reds have an MLB-worst .210 average. So how are they doing it?

It’s been a group effort, according to Francona.

“I think that’s the team we need to be,” he said. “Sal (Stewart) kind of carried us for a while there, but if we start getting contributions all over the map, that will really help us.”

Stewart is hitting .284, and his eight home runs are tied with Elly De La Cruz for the team lead.

Brady Singer (1-1, 5.32 ERA) will get the ball for the Reds on Saturday, hoping to build off a pair of solid starts. Since allowing five earned runs on 10 hits across just 2 2/3 innings in a loss to the Miami Marlins on April 8, the 29-year-old right-hander has responded with back-to-back quality starts.


Last time out, Singer surrendered three runs across six frames in a no-decision Sunday against the Minnesota Twins. The Reds won 7-4 in 10 innings.

“He hung around for six innings, threw 100 pitches, gave up three (runs) where that could have easily been five or six,” Francona said of Singer’s outing. “He battled his rear-end off.”

A longtime American League Central rival of Detroit as a member of the Kansas City Royals, Singer is 7-1 with a 3.16 ERA in 14 career starts against the Tigers.

Detroit appeared on its way to an 11th win in 14 tries on Friday before squandering a 5-0 advantage. The Tigers hit four home runs in the series opener, including the third in as many games from first baseman Spencer Torkelson.

After a lackluster start to the year, Torkelson has seen his batting average (.210) slowly tick up.

“He just brings a different element to the lineup,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “We can slug. Obviously, we can be streaky, too. … This is a guy that’s moved down in the order, but he just lengthens our lineup and provides a huge threat.”

Veteran right-hander Jack Flaherty (0-1, 3.47 ERA) will make his sixth start of the season for Detroit still in search of his first victory.

Flaherty, 30, is averaging just 4 2/3 innings per start and lasted only 3 1/3 in a no-decision in an 8-6 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Monday. He allowed two unearned runs but walked six batters — his most since walking six against the Milwaukee Brewers on April 7, 2023.

In 11 career starts against the Reds, Flaherty is 3-3 with a 4.53 ERA.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Lighthitting #Reds #chase #4th #straight #series #win #matchup #Tigers">Deadspin | Light-hitting Reds chase 4th straight series win in matchup vs. Tigers Apr 24, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds outfielder Rece Hinds (57) runs to second after hitting a double in the sixth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images The Cincinnati Reds will look to clinch their fourth consecutive series victory Saturday night when they host the Detroit Tigers in the second contest of a three-game set. The Reds are off to their best start (17-9) in the first 26 games of the season since beginning 18-8 in 2006. Fueled by a balanced lineup, manager Terry Francona’s upstart club has won eight of its past 10 outings. Cincinnati refused to allow a nearly two-hour rain delay to hinder a five-run rally, fighting back to earn a 9-8 win over Detroit thanks to Nathaniel Lowe’s two-run, walk-off homer on Friday. Offensively, the National League Central-leading Reds don’t have a player hitting .300. In fact, the Reds have an MLB-worst .210 average. So how are they doing it? It’s been a group effort, according to Francona. “I think that’s the team we need to be,” he said. “Sal (Stewart) kind of carried us for a while there, but if we start getting contributions all over the map, that will really help us.” Stewart is hitting .284, and his eight home runs are tied with Elly De La Cruz for the team lead. Brady Singer (1-1, 5.32 ERA) will get the ball for the Reds on Saturday, hoping to build off a pair of solid starts. Since allowing five earned runs on 10 hits across just 2 2/3 innings in a loss to the Miami Marlins on April 8, the 29-year-old right-hander has responded with back-to-back quality starts. Last time out, Singer surrendered three runs across six frames in a no-decision Sunday against the Minnesota Twins. The Reds won 7-4 in 10 innings. “He hung around for six innings, threw 100 pitches, gave up three (runs) where that could have easily been five or six,” Francona said of Singer’s outing. “He battled his rear-end off.” A longtime American League Central rival of Detroit as a member of the Kansas City Royals, Singer is 7-1 with a 3.16 ERA in 14 career starts against the Tigers. Detroit appeared on its way to an 11th win in 14 tries on Friday before squandering a 5-0 advantage. The Tigers hit four home runs in the series opener, including the third in as many games from first baseman Spencer Torkelson. After a lackluster start to the year, Torkelson has seen his batting average (.210) slowly tick up. “He just brings a different element to the lineup,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “We can slug. Obviously, we can be streaky, too. … This is a guy that’s moved down in the order, but he just lengthens our lineup and provides a huge threat.” Veteran right-hander Jack Flaherty (0-1, 3.47 ERA) will make his sixth start of the season for Detroit still in search of his first victory. Flaherty, 30, is averaging just 4 2/3 innings per start and lasted only 3 1/3 in a no-decision in an 8-6 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Monday. He allowed two unearned runs but walked six batters — his most since walking six against the Milwaukee Brewers on April 7, 2023. In 11 career starts against the Reds, Flaherty is 3-3 with a 4.53 ERA. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Lighthitting #Reds #chase #4th #straight #series #win #matchup #Tigers

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