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Deadspin | NBA roundup: Luke Kennard’s 27 sparks Lakers past Rockets in Game 1 Apr 18, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) dribbles the ball against Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) in the first half during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Luke 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 9 of 13 from the floor and 5 of 5 from 3-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 beat Minnesota to take a 1-0 lead in their 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, which pulled away for a win over Atlanta 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 Cleveland to a victory over visiting Toronto 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 Toronto is 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). –Field Level Media #Deadspin #NBA #roundup #Luke #Kennards #sparks #Lakers #Rockets #Game

Deadspin | NBA roundup: Luke Kennard’s 27 sparks Lakers past Rockets in Game 1
Deadspin | NBA roundup: Luke Kennard’s 27 sparks Lakers past Rockets in Game 1 Apr 18, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) dribbles the ball against Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) in the first half during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Luke 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 9 of 13 from the floor and 5 of 5 from 3-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 beat Minnesota to take a 1-0 lead in their 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, which pulled away for a win over Atlanta 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 Cleveland to a victory over visiting Toronto 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 Toronto is 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). –Field Level Media #Deadspin #NBA #roundup #Luke #Kennards #sparks #Lakers #Rockets #GameApr 18, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) dribbles the ball against Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) in the first half during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Luke 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 9 of 13 from the floor and 5 of 5 from 3-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 beat Minnesota to take a 1-0 lead in their 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, which pulled away for a win over Atlanta 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 Cleveland to a victory over visiting Toronto 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 Toronto is 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).


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #NBA #roundup #Luke #Kennards #sparks #Lakers #Rockets #Game

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Apr 18, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) dribbles the ball against Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) in the first half during game one of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Luke 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 9 of 13 from the floor and 5 of 5 from 3-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 beat Minnesota to take a 1-0 lead in their 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, which pulled away for a win over Atlanta 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 Cleveland to a victory over visiting Toronto 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 Toronto is 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).

–Field Level Media

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What happened when Arsenal last played Manchester City? <div id="content-body-70880297" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Arsenal and Manchester City meet again this season, and this time, it could be a potential title decider in the Premier League.</p><p>Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta, who once shared the dugout in Manchester, now stand against each other as the Gunners travel to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.</p><h4 class="sub_head">When was the last time Arsenal played Manchester City?</h4><p>The last time Arsenal played Manchester City was in the League Cup final in March 2026. The teams have met twice this season so far.</p><h4 class="sub_head">What happened the last time Arsenal played Manchester City?</h4><p>Manchester City reasserted itself as trophy winner supreme as it gave Arsenal a chastening reality check with ​a 2-0 victory in the League Cup final, thanks to Nico O’Reilly’s ‌second-half double at Wembley on Sunday.</p><p>Premier League leader Arsenal arrived ​as the favourite to win its first trophy since 2020 ⁠but was found wanting as City deservedly won the competition for the ninth time.</p><p>It might be one ‌of ⁠the sweetest triumphs of Guardiola’s vast collection as ⁠his impressive side shrugged off its midweek elimination in the Champions League to make a mockery of talk of power shifts and Arsenal quadruples.</p><p>Arsenal, which had not won ​the League Cup since 1993, ‌simply did not show up and will have to dust itself down and focus on trying to clinch a first Premier League title since 2004.</p><h4 class="sub_head">What happened the last time Arsenal played Manchester City in the Premier League?</h4><p>Arsenal and Manchester City last played in the Premier League in September last year.</p><p>Gabriel Martinelli’s last-gasp equaliser gave the Gunners a 1-1 draw at home to Manchester City, cancelling out Erling Haaland’s early goal to give Arteta’s a barely-deserved point.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 19, 2026</p></div> #happened #Arsenal #played #Manchester #City

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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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