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Deadspin | Earthquakes score 5 second-half goals to beat Austin FC  Apr 22, 2026; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Earthquakes forward Timo Werner (11) celebrates scoring the team’s second goal against Austin FC in the second half at PayPal Park. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images   Timo Werner scored the tiebreaking goal on a penalty kick in the 78th minute and the MLS-best San Jose Earthquakes erupted for five second-half goals in a 5-1 victory over visiting Austin FC on Wednesday night.  Preston Judd recorded his second career brace while Jack Jasinksi and Ousseni Bouda also scored goals as San Jose (8-1-0, 24 points) continued its franchise-best start. The Earthquakes scored four of their goals in a 12-minute stretch late in the second half while notching their fifth consecutive victory.  San Jose dominated the contest with a 37-6 edge in shots. The Earthquakes put 16 shots on target compared to Austin’s two.  Joseph Rosales scored for Austin FC (1-4-4, 7 points) and Brad Stuver allowed his club to hold the lead most of the game with 11 saves, some of them spectacular stops.  Austin is winless in its last seven MLS matches (0-4-3).  The go-ahead sequence began when San Jose was awarded a penalty kick when Austin’s Nicolas Dubersarsky knocked down Jamar Ricketts in the box in the 77th minute.  One minute later, Werner stood at the spot and placed a right-footed shot into the lower left corner of the net to give the Earthquakes their first lead.  San Jose tacked off another tally in the 83rd minute when Paul Marie fed Judd for a right-footed running shot past Stuver.   Two minutes later, Bouda stole the ball from Austin’s Jon Bell and sent a left-footed shot that caromed off Stuver and into the net to give the Quakes a 4-1 edge.  The onslaught continued in the 89th minute when Marie sent a pass to Judd, who headed it into the net.  Earlier, San Jose knotted the score at 1 in the 58th minute when Jasinksi, a rookie, made good on his second header attempt in two minutes.  On the first one, Jasinki’s header clanked off the near goalpost. Chance No. 2 came off Niko Tsakiris’ corner kick and he rose up and snapped a header past Stuver for his first MLS goal.  Austin’s goal in the ninth minute came after a wayward San Jose pass in its own end was scooped up by Rosales.  Rosales dribbled in and delivered a hard left-footed shot that caromed off the leg of Daniel and into the net.  Austin nearly struck again in the 17th minute but Facundo Torres’ hard left-foot shot was stopped for Daniel’s lone save of the match. Daniel then used his right hand to slap the ball to the side and out of harm’s way.  –Field Level Media    #Deadspin #Earthquakes #score #secondhalf #goals #beat #Austin

Deadspin | Earthquakes score 5 second-half goals to beat Austin FC
Deadspin | Earthquakes score 5 second-half goals to beat Austin FC  Apr 22, 2026; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Earthquakes forward Timo Werner (11) celebrates scoring the team’s second goal against Austin FC in the second half at PayPal Park. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images   Timo Werner scored the tiebreaking goal on a penalty kick in the 78th minute and the MLS-best San Jose Earthquakes erupted for five second-half goals in a 5-1 victory over visiting Austin FC on Wednesday night.  Preston Judd recorded his second career brace while Jack Jasinksi and Ousseni Bouda also scored goals as San Jose (8-1-0, 24 points) continued its franchise-best start. The Earthquakes scored four of their goals in a 12-minute stretch late in the second half while notching their fifth consecutive victory.  San Jose dominated the contest with a 37-6 edge in shots. The Earthquakes put 16 shots on target compared to Austin’s two.  Joseph Rosales scored for Austin FC (1-4-4, 7 points) and Brad Stuver allowed his club to hold the lead most of the game with 11 saves, some of them spectacular stops.  Austin is winless in its last seven MLS matches (0-4-3).  The go-ahead sequence began when San Jose was awarded a penalty kick when Austin’s Nicolas Dubersarsky knocked down Jamar Ricketts in the box in the 77th minute.  One minute later, Werner stood at the spot and placed a right-footed shot into the lower left corner of the net to give the Earthquakes their first lead.  San Jose tacked off another tally in the 83rd minute when Paul Marie fed Judd for a right-footed running shot past Stuver.   Two minutes later, Bouda stole the ball from Austin’s Jon Bell and sent a left-footed shot that caromed off Stuver and into the net to give the Quakes a 4-1 edge.  The onslaught continued in the 89th minute when Marie sent a pass to Judd, who headed it into the net.  Earlier, San Jose knotted the score at 1 in the 58th minute when Jasinksi, a rookie, made good on his second header attempt in two minutes.  On the first one, Jasinki’s header clanked off the near goalpost. Chance No. 2 came off Niko Tsakiris’ corner kick and he rose up and snapped a header past Stuver for his first MLS goal.  Austin’s goal in the ninth minute came after a wayward San Jose pass in its own end was scooped up by Rosales.  Rosales dribbled in and delivered a hard left-footed shot that caromed off the leg of Daniel and into the net.  Austin nearly struck again in the 17th minute but Facundo Torres’ hard left-foot shot was stopped for Daniel’s lone save of the match. Daniel then used his right hand to slap the ball to the side and out of harm’s way.  –Field Level Media    #Deadspin #Earthquakes #score #secondhalf #goals #beat #AustinApr 22, 2026; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Earthquakes forward Timo Werner (11) celebrates scoring the team’s second goal against Austin FC in the second half at PayPal Park. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

Timo Werner scored the tiebreaking goal on a penalty kick in the 78th minute and the MLS-best San Jose Earthquakes erupted for five second-half goals in a 5-1 victory over visiting Austin FC on Wednesday night.

Preston Judd recorded his second career brace while Jack Jasinksi and Ousseni Bouda also scored goals as San Jose (8-1-0, 24 points) continued its franchise-best start. The Earthquakes scored four of their goals in a 12-minute stretch late in the second half while notching their fifth consecutive victory.

San Jose dominated the contest with a 37-6 edge in shots. The Earthquakes put 16 shots on target compared to Austin’s two.

Joseph Rosales scored for Austin FC (1-4-4, 7 points) and Brad Stuver allowed his club to hold the lead most of the game with 11 saves, some of them spectacular stops.

Austin is winless in its last seven MLS matches (0-4-3).

The go-ahead sequence began when San Jose was awarded a penalty kick when Austin’s Nicolas Dubersarsky knocked down Jamar Ricketts in the box in the 77th minute.

One minute later, Werner stood at the spot and placed a right-footed shot into the lower left corner of the net to give the Earthquakes their first lead.


San Jose tacked off another tally in the 83rd minute when Paul Marie fed Judd for a right-footed running shot past Stuver.

Two minutes later, Bouda stole the ball from Austin’s Jon Bell and sent a left-footed shot that caromed off Stuver and into the net to give the Quakes a 4-1 edge.

The onslaught continued in the 89th minute when Marie sent a pass to Judd, who headed it into the net.

Earlier, San Jose knotted the score at 1 in the 58th minute when Jasinksi, a rookie, made good on his second header attempt in two minutes.

On the first one, Jasinki’s header clanked off the near goalpost. Chance No. 2 came off Niko Tsakiris’ corner kick and he rose up and snapped a header past Stuver for his first MLS goal.

Austin’s goal in the ninth minute came after a wayward San Jose pass in its own end was scooped up by Rosales.

Rosales dribbled in and delivered a hard left-footed shot that caromed off the leg of Daniel and into the net.

Austin nearly struck again in the 17th minute but Facundo Torres’ hard left-foot shot was stopped for Daniel’s lone save of the match. Daniel then used his right hand to slap the ball to the side and out of harm’s way.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Earthquakes #score #secondhalf #goals #beat #Austin

Apr 22, 2026; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Earthquakes forward Timo Werner (11) celebrates scoring the team’s second goal against Austin FC in the second half at PayPal Park. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

Timo Werner scored the tiebreaking goal on a penalty kick in the 78th minute and the MLS-best San Jose Earthquakes erupted for five second-half goals in a 5-1 victory over visiting Austin FC on Wednesday night.

Preston Judd recorded his second career brace while Jack Jasinksi and Ousseni Bouda also scored goals as San Jose (8-1-0, 24 points) continued its franchise-best start. The Earthquakes scored four of their goals in a 12-minute stretch late in the second half while notching their fifth consecutive victory.

San Jose dominated the contest with a 37-6 edge in shots. The Earthquakes put 16 shots on target compared to Austin’s two.

Joseph Rosales scored for Austin FC (1-4-4, 7 points) and Brad Stuver allowed his club to hold the lead most of the game with 11 saves, some of them spectacular stops.

Austin is winless in its last seven MLS matches (0-4-3).

The go-ahead sequence began when San Jose was awarded a penalty kick when Austin’s Nicolas Dubersarsky knocked down Jamar Ricketts in the box in the 77th minute.

One minute later, Werner stood at the spot and placed a right-footed shot into the lower left corner of the net to give the Earthquakes their first lead.

San Jose tacked off another tally in the 83rd minute when Paul Marie fed Judd for a right-footed running shot past Stuver.

Two minutes later, Bouda stole the ball from Austin’s Jon Bell and sent a left-footed shot that caromed off Stuver and into the net to give the Quakes a 4-1 edge.

The onslaught continued in the 89th minute when Marie sent a pass to Judd, who headed it into the net.

Earlier, San Jose knotted the score at 1 in the 58th minute when Jasinksi, a rookie, made good on his second header attempt in two minutes.

On the first one, Jasinki’s header clanked off the near goalpost. Chance No. 2 came off Niko Tsakiris’ corner kick and he rose up and snapped a header past Stuver for his first MLS goal.

Austin’s goal in the ninth minute came after a wayward San Jose pass in its own end was scooped up by Rosales.

Rosales dribbled in and delivered a hard left-footed shot that caromed off the leg of Daniel and into the net.

Austin nearly struck again in the 17th minute but Facundo Torres’ hard left-foot shot was stopped for Daniel’s lone save of the match. Daniel then used his right hand to slap the ball to the side and out of harm’s way.

–Field Level Media

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#Deadspin #Earthquakes #score #secondhalf #goals #beat #Austin

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NFL mock draft 2026: Final projection with 2 big trades <div id="zephr-anchor"><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The NFL Draft is finally upon us. All the debating, consternation, and speculation comes to an end on Thursday night with the first round. We know that Fernando Mendoza is going No. 1 overall to the Las Vegas Raiders, but it’s all up in the air after that. <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1111814/nfl-draft-rankings-top-100-players-available-2026">After looking at our big board</a>, team needs, and potential trades we have finally settled on our final mock draft for the 1st round in 2026.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Putting this together was a collaborative effort by James Dator and Mark Schofield, alternating picks, discussing the board, and formulating trades together. We’re not going to tell you who made which picks, because if you want to yell at one of us, you yell at both of us. Without further ado here’s the mock, and after we’ll discuss the trades that we have taking place in the first round, as well as a few more notes.</p></div><div class="duet--article--block-placement jgpyd53 jgpyd50 duet--article--article-body-component"><div class="duet--article--table eqjv3q0"><table class="eqjv3q2"><thead><tr><th class="eqjv3q5"><h3 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Pick</h3></th><th class="eqjv3q5"><h3 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Team</h3></th><th class="eqjv3q5"><h3 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Player</h3></th><th class="eqjv3q5"><h3 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Position</h3></th><th class="eqjv3q5"><h3 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">School</h3></th><th class="eqjv3q5"><h3 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Notes</h3></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">1</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Las Vegas Raiders</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Fernando Mendoza</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">QB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Indiana</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">2</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">New York Jets</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">David Bailey</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Texas Tech</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">3</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Arizona Cardinals</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Jeremiyah Love</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">RB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Notre Dame</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">4</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Tennessee Titans</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Sonny Styles</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">LB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Ohio State</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">5</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">New York Giants</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Caleb Downs</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">S</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Ohio State</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">6</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Dallas Cowboys (from Browns)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Arvell Reese</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">LB/EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Ohio State</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Cleveland receives: 12, 20 — Dallas receives: 6, 70</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">7</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Washington Commanders</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Rueben Bain Jr.</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Miami</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">8</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">New Orleans Saints</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Carnell Tate</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">WR</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Ohio State</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">9</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Kansas City Chiefs</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Mansoor Delane</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">CB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">LSU</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">10</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">New York Giants (from Bengals)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Francis Mauigoa</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">OT</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Miami</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">11</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Miami Dolphins</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Jordyn Tyson</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">WR</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Arizona State</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">12</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Cleveland Browns (from Cowboys)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Spencer Fano</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">OT</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Utah</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">13</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Los Angeles Rams (from Falcons)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Makai Lemon</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">WR</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">USC</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">14</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Baltimore Ravens</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Olaivavega Ioane</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">IOL</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Penn State</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">15</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Akheem Mesidor</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Miami</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">16</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">New York Jets (from Colts)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Omar Cooper Jr.</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">WR</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Indiana</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">17</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Detroit Lions</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Monroe Freeling</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">OT</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Georgia</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">18</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Minnesota Vikings</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Dillion Thieneman</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">S</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Oregon</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">19</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Carolina Panthers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">KC Concepcion</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">WR</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Texas A&M</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">20</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Cleveland Browns (from Cowboys via GB)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Denzel Boston</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">WR</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Washington</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">21</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Pittsburgh Steelers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Kadyn Proctor</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">OT</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Alabama</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">22</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">LA Chargers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Chase Bisontis</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">IOL</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Texas A&M</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">23</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Philadelphia Eagles</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Blake Miller</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">OT</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Clemson</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">24</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Arizona Cardinals (from Browns)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Ty Simpson</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">QB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Alabama</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Cleveland receives: 2027 1st round pick</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">25</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Chicago Bears</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Kayden McDonald</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">DT</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Ohio State</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">26</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Buffalo Bills</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Keldric Faulk</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Auburn</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">27</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">San Francisco 49ers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Jermod McCoy</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">CB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Tennessee</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">28</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Houston Texans</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Caleb Lomu</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">OT</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Utah</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">29</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Kansas City Chiefs (via Rams)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Kenyon Sadiq</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">TE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Oregon</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">30</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Miami Dolphins (via Broncos)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Chris Johnson</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">CB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">San Diego State</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">31</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">New England Patriots</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Zion Young</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Missouri</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">32</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Seattle Seahawks</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Colton Hood</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">CB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Tennessee</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7"/></tr></tbody></table></div></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">The two big Browns trades</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Yes, we have Cleveland making two deals in the first round. The first is the much-rumored deal involving Dallas moving up to the No. 6 pick, which we felt especially made sense with Arvell Reese and Reuben Bain Jr. on the board. Without making a deal, there’s no guarantee the Cowboys could get either pass rusher, and locking up the No. 1 player on our big board was too good to pass up here.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">It costs Dallas the No. 12 and No. 20 picks to move up, but they get back a third-rounder from Cleveland. It’s a fair trade that allows both teams to execute their visions.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The second deal falls in the 20s with Ty Simpson. We really thought about taking the easy route and mocking him to Pittsburgh at 21, but it just doesn’t feel like the Steelers are willing to risk repeating their Kenny Pickett mistake. Simpson is a risk, and giving up a 2027 1st is a lot — but this team needs to win right now to instill some confidence. Getting both Simpson and Jeremiyah Love is a tremendous way to build hype in Glendale, while the Browns get a future pick they can use as quarterback insurance for Shedeur Sanders.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">The Giants absolutely ROCK their two first rounders</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">A lot of this was simply how the board fell, but this draft would be a godsend for Big Blue. Not only do the Giants get a transformative defensive player in Caleb Downs, but fix their offensive tackle problem in a big was with Francis Mauigoa. We had Downs and Mauigoa at No. 3 and No. 8 respectively on our board — so getting them at No. 5 and No. 10 is amazing value.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">We promise we didn’t rig this for the Chiefs</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">There was a collective realization when we hit the late 20s that we were on the verge of giving the Chiefs both Mansoor Delane and Kenyon Sadiq in the first round. It really couldn’t be helped as we were working through this class.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Delane is a no-brainer for the Chiefs after trading away Trent McDuffie, but the more curious element is seeing Sadiq fall so far. There just aren’t a lot of great landing spots for him in this class. There’s been a lot of mocking him to Carolina, but there hasn’t been a lot of apparent interest from the Panthers — and they’re typically an organization that does heavy investment in a position group they’re targeting. So far Carolina has spent much more time with wide receivers than this TE class, altering the way we went.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Sadiq is a disgusting fit in Kansas City in the best way for the Chiefs. He’s going to cook there.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Let’s talk about Jermod McCoy</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Neither of us have holiday homes, so you know we’re not doctors. We aren’t going to armchair diagnose potential knee issues with Jermod McCoy, but we did hedge this a little bit. Without any medical issues we’d put McCoy in the early teens, potentially as early as No. 11 to the Dolphins — but with this injury situation being up in the air we had him fall to the latter part of the round.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">This would be a tremendous pickup for the 49ers if he’s healthy, but even if he needs knee surgery then San Francisco get his 5th year option by taking him in the first.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">One thing that didn’t happen but we’d watch for …</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Let’s see what happens with Indiana WR Omar Cooper Jr. In our mock we have him going to the Jets at No. 16, which feels right value wise — but we wouldn’t count out the Raiders trying to make a play here with future picks. Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase set the benchmark for how good a college QB/WR handcuff can be, and there will be some <em>strong</em> motivation for Las Vegas to potentially try the same thing with Mendoza and Cooper.</p></div></div> #NFL #mock #draft #Final #projection #big #trades

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RCB’s success down to Kohli trusting batting line-up more: Sanjay Manjrekar <div id="content-body-70897348" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s has started its title defence strongly, winning four of its first six matches as it looks to become the first team to win back-to-back IPL titles.</p><p>Leading the way with the bat once again for Rajat Patidar’s men is Virat Kohli, who is the team’s leading run-scorer with 247 runs from six innings at an average of 49.40 and a strike-rate of 157.32. </p><p>However, former India international Sanjay Manjrekar believes that a large part of the RCB’s recent success can be attributed to the side shedding its dependence on Kohli.</p><p>“I believe that what has changed in the last two years, apart from Virat Kohli’s strike rate going up, is that he has stopped believing that he is the one batter who’s got to do it for RCB, and has taken a little bit of a backseat and delegated,” Manjrekar said on <b><i>Sportstar’s Inside Edge podcast</i></b>. </p><div class="inline_embed article-block-item"><p>[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMAhdMSSKzg[/embed]</p></div><p>“Earlier, when AB and Virat were the two big batters, by accident or by design, they were consuming a lot of balls per RCB innings,” Manjrekar said. “If you see now with RCB, people like Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, and Tim David are providing a lot of useful contributions from down the order because they are getting the opportunity to come in and spend time in the middle.” </p><p>“I’d like to believe that the reason RCB won the title and is looking really good this season is because Virat Kohli, who bats at the top of the order, is just not putting as huge a prize on his wicket and has started trusting the batters to come a little more.” </p><p>Manjrekar noted that Kohli’s improved strike-rate had dovetailed well with the pyrotechnics coming from the rest of the RCB batting line-up, saying, “Earlier, he was happy to go at a strike-rate of 120-130. Also, I think he was going into bat and thinking about a milestone, which not too many people think. But I can understand the pressure of a big brand wanting to get those 50s and showing that he’s contributing. </p><p><b>ALSO READ: <a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/cricket/ipl/kkr-ipl-2026-kolkata-knight-riders-captain-rahane-auction-strategy-sanjay-manjrekar-criticism/article70897150.ece" target="_self">Kolkata Knight Riders’ issues from poor auction and captaincy choice, says Sanjay Manjrekar</a></b></p><p>“But I believe where things have changed is that Virat Kohli now realises that he cannot bat at a strike-rate of 130. Things have moved on. He is batting at a strike-rate of 150 generally. But interestingly, down the order, people are going at 180-200 and that is why RCB is playing so well.</p><h4 class="sub_head">Fitness focus</h4><p>Manjrekar also praised Kohli for his fitness, noting that it was one of the important reasons behind the 37-year-old’s continued impressive form. </p><p>“The amount of time he spends just wanting to be this very, very fit cricketer. So when you’re aging and if you’re not really supremely fit, T20 cricket is about hand-eye coordination and running hard between the wickets, and you just have to be young in body. If your eyes can keep pace with it, that’s fine. </p><p>“Virat Kohli doesn’t let his age come in the way too much. It does, in Test cricket you saw that. But his fitness is never going to actually make things even more difficult for him. And we’re seeing that in his T20 batting both last season, and this season as well.”</p><p>He further pointed out that this was in line with how Kohli had achieved success across his career. </p><p>“Virat has achieved greatness, reached exceptional heights. He wasn’t as gifted as Tendulkar with batting ability or you’ll see his technique let him down in Test cricket,” Manjrekar. “But he willed himself to those heights by sheer fitness, and wanting to be at his best every time he stepped onto the field, just like Tendulkar. And that is what sets him apart.”</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 23, 2026</p></div> #RCBs #success #Kohli #trusting #batting #lineup #Sanjay #Manjrekar

Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes expressed hope that he and his ​teammates can help crown Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‌international career by winning the 2026 ​World Cup.

The 41-year-old Ronaldo ⁠is set to appear in a record sixth World Cup in June, a tournament ‌expected to be the final major chapter of the forward’s ‌career.

“Wrapping up all this last World ‌Cup ⁠with Cristiano (Ronaldo) winning it would ⁠be something amazing,” Fernandes told Wayne Rooney in a BBC report published on Friday.

“I really ​hope we can ‌make it happen, not just for Portugal, but for everything Cristiano gave to football and the world,” ‌the Portuguese midfielder and Manchester United ​captain said.

READ | Georgios Donis replaces Hervé Renard as head coach of Saudi Arabia

Ronaldo, considered one of the greatest players ever to ⁠have not won a World Cup, is the record scorer in international ‌football with 143 goals.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was part of Portugal’s Euro 2016-winning team and has lifted the Nations League twice.

Portugal’s opening Group K game is on June ‌17 against the Democratic Republic of Congo, followed ​by Uzbekistan on June 23, with both games in Houston. ⁠It plays Colombia on June 27 in ⁠Miami in its final group game.

The World Cup runs from ‌June 11 to July 19 in Canada, the United States and Mexico.

Published on Apr 25, 2026

#Fernandes #hopes #Portugal #wins #FIFA #World #Cup #crown #Ronaldos #international #career">Fernandes hopes Portugal wins FIFA World Cup 2026 to crown Ronaldo’s international career  Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes expressed hope that he and his ​teammates can help crown Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‌international career by winning the 2026 ​World Cup.The 41-year-old Ronaldo ⁠is set to appear in a record sixth World Cup in June, a tournament ‌expected to be the final major chapter of the forward’s ‌career.“Wrapping up all this last World ‌Cup ⁠with Cristiano (Ronaldo) winning it would ⁠be something amazing,” Fernandes told Wayne Rooney in a        BBC report published on Friday.“I really ​hope we can ‌make it happen, not just for Portugal, but for everything Cristiano gave to football and the world,” ‌the Portuguese midfielder and Manchester United ​captain said.READ | Georgios Donis replaces Hervé Renard as head coach of Saudi ArabiaRonaldo, considered one of the greatest players ever to ⁠have not won a World Cup, is the record scorer in international ‌football with 143 goals.The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was part of Portugal’s Euro 2016-winning team and has lifted the Nations League twice.Portugal’s opening Group K game is on June ‌17 against the Democratic Republic of Congo, followed ​by Uzbekistan on June 23, with both games in Houston. ⁠It plays Colombia on June 27 in ⁠Miami in its final group game.The World Cup runs from ‌June 11 to July 19 in Canada, the United States and Mexico.Published on Apr 25, 2026  #Fernandes #hopes #Portugal #wins #FIFA #World #Cup #crown #Ronaldos #international #career

Georgios Donis replaces Hervé Renard as head coach of Saudi Arabia

Ronaldo, considered one of the greatest players ever to ⁠have not won a World Cup, is the record scorer in international ‌football with 143 goals.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was part of Portugal’s Euro 2016-winning team and has lifted the Nations League twice.

Portugal’s opening Group K game is on June ‌17 against the Democratic Republic of Congo, followed ​by Uzbekistan on June 23, with both games in Houston. ⁠It plays Colombia on June 27 in ⁠Miami in its final group game.

The World Cup runs from ‌June 11 to July 19 in Canada, the United States and Mexico.

Published on Apr 25, 2026

#Fernandes #hopes #Portugal #wins #FIFA #World #Cup #crown #Ronaldos #international #career">Fernandes hopes Portugal wins FIFA World Cup 2026 to crown Ronaldo’s international career

Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes expressed hope that he and his ​teammates can help crown Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‌international career by winning the 2026 ​World Cup.

The 41-year-old Ronaldo ⁠is set to appear in a record sixth World Cup in June, a tournament ‌expected to be the final major chapter of the forward’s ‌career.

“Wrapping up all this last World ‌Cup ⁠with Cristiano (Ronaldo) winning it would ⁠be something amazing,” Fernandes told Wayne Rooney in a BBC report published on Friday.

“I really ​hope we can ‌make it happen, not just for Portugal, but for everything Cristiano gave to football and the world,” ‌the Portuguese midfielder and Manchester United ​captain said.

READ | Georgios Donis replaces Hervé Renard as head coach of Saudi Arabia

Ronaldo, considered one of the greatest players ever to ⁠have not won a World Cup, is the record scorer in international ‌football with 143 goals.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was part of Portugal’s Euro 2016-winning team and has lifted the Nations League twice.

Portugal’s opening Group K game is on June ‌17 against the Democratic Republic of Congo, followed ​by Uzbekistan on June 23, with both games in Houston. ⁠It plays Colombia on June 27 in ⁠Miami in its final group game.

The World Cup runs from ‌June 11 to July 19 in Canada, the United States and Mexico.

Published on Apr 25, 2026

#Fernandes #hopes #Portugal #wins #FIFA #World #Cup #crown #Ronaldos #international #career
Deadspin | Blue Jays to use new bullpen approach vs. Guardians  Apr 19, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images   The Toronto Blue Jays will be going to a closer-by-committee if the situation arises Saturday afternoon against the visiting Cleveland Guardians.  Jeff Hoffman has struggled as the closer this season and he was told Friday by manager John Schneider that the team will mix-and-match for now instead of putting the onus on one particular pitcher in the ninth inning.  “It’s still finding spots for guys, so whoever that may be in the ninth inning, for now, it’ll be that guy,” Schneider said.  The Blue Jays did not need a closer in their 8-6 loss to Cleveland on Friday in the opener of the three-game series. Toronto fell behind 5-0 and never had a lead.  Hoffman understood the move, saying there are other relievers pitching better than him currently. The right-hander is 3-for-6 on save chances to go with a 1-2 record and a 7.59 ERA.  “That gives them the nod to go out there and do it for the group,” he said. “I’m good for whatever is going to put us in the best position to win as many games as possible.”  Schneider said, “I don’t want to lose sight of the fact that he’s striking out half the hitters he’s facing. There’s a component to it where you want to just stop some momentum, and we’re still going to use him in big spots.”  The Blue Jays will look to bounce back when they send out right-hander Kevin Gausman (1-1, 2.54 ERA) on Saturday. Gausman is 5-5 with a 2.30 ERA in 11 games (10 starts) against Cleveland. Last season, he was 1-0 with 0.00 ERA in two starts vs. the Guardians, allowing three hits, two walks and one hit batter while striking out 15 in 14 innings.  Left-hander Joey Cantillo (1-0, 3.20 ERA) is scheduled to start for the Guardians. He has pitched one-third of an inning in his career against Toronto, retiring the only batter he faced last season.   The Guardians expect to have struggling Steven Kwan back in the lineup on Saturday after he didn’t start on Friday. Kwan, who is batting .227 (22-for-97) with one homer and eight RBIs, did enter the game as a ninth-inning defensive replacement in the series opener.  “We were looking to get him two days off and one of them on the (Rogers Centre) turf,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said. “We just wanted to give him a chance to reset the legs. Playing center field is a new beast. We just wanted to give him two days to get his body back underneath him.”  Kwan, a four-time Gold Glove left fielder, has been playing mostly in center this season.  “I don’t think moving between left and center field has affected his offense,” Vogt said, “but it’s a new workload that he’s never had in the big leagues. I wouldn’t read any more into this day off other than we wanted to get him two days off by using the off day (Thursday).”  It worked out well. Daniel Schneemann replaced Kwan in the leadoff spot on Friday and Angel Martinez started in center field.  Schneemann, batting leadoff for the first time this season, led off the game with a home run against Max Scherzer. He also walked and doubled.  Martinez hit two-run homers in the first and third innings.  Toronto lost Nathan Lukes in the first inning Friday when he left the game with what the team announced was left hamstring discomfort. Schneider said the outfielder was to going have an MRI.  –Field Level Media    #Deadspin #Blue #Jays #bullpen #approach #GuardiansApr 19, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Toronto Blue Jays will be going to a closer-by-committee if the situation arises Saturday afternoon against the visiting Cleveland Guardians.

Jeff Hoffman has struggled as the closer this season and he was told Friday by manager John Schneider that the team will mix-and-match for now instead of putting the onus on one particular pitcher in the ninth inning.

“It’s still finding spots for guys, so whoever that may be in the ninth inning, for now, it’ll be that guy,” Schneider said.

The Blue Jays did not need a closer in their 8-6 loss to Cleveland on Friday in the opener of the three-game series. Toronto fell behind 5-0 and never had a lead.

Hoffman understood the move, saying there are other relievers pitching better than him currently. The right-hander is 3-for-6 on save chances to go with a 1-2 record and a 7.59 ERA.

“That gives them the nod to go out there and do it for the group,” he said. “I’m good for whatever is going to put us in the best position to win as many games as possible.”

Schneider said, “I don’t want to lose sight of the fact that he’s striking out half the hitters he’s facing. There’s a component to it where you want to just stop some momentum, and we’re still going to use him in big spots.”

The Blue Jays will look to bounce back when they send out right-hander Kevin Gausman (1-1, 2.54 ERA) on Saturday. Gausman is 5-5 with a 2.30 ERA in 11 games (10 starts) against Cleveland. Last season, he was 1-0 with 0.00 ERA in two starts vs. the Guardians, allowing three hits, two walks and one hit batter while striking out 15 in 14 innings.


Left-hander Joey Cantillo (1-0, 3.20 ERA) is scheduled to start for the Guardians. He has pitched one-third of an inning in his career against Toronto, retiring the only batter he faced last season.

The Guardians expect to have struggling Steven Kwan back in the lineup on Saturday after he didn’t start on Friday. Kwan, who is batting .227 (22-for-97) with one homer and eight RBIs, did enter the game as a ninth-inning defensive replacement in the series opener.

“We were looking to get him two days off and one of them on the (Rogers Centre) turf,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said. “We just wanted to give him a chance to reset the legs. Playing center field is a new beast. We just wanted to give him two days to get his body back underneath him.”

Kwan, a four-time Gold Glove left fielder, has been playing mostly in center this season.

“I don’t think moving between left and center field has affected his offense,” Vogt said, “but it’s a new workload that he’s never had in the big leagues. I wouldn’t read any more into this day off other than we wanted to get him two days off by using the off day (Thursday).”

It worked out well. Daniel Schneemann replaced Kwan in the leadoff spot on Friday and Angel Martinez started in center field.

Schneemann, batting leadoff for the first time this season, led off the game with a home run against Max Scherzer. He also walked and doubled.

Martinez hit two-run homers in the first and third innings.

Toronto lost Nathan Lukes in the first inning Friday when he left the game with what the team announced was left hamstring discomfort. Schneider said the outfielder was to going have an MRI.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Blue #Jays #bullpen #approach #Guardians">Deadspin | Blue Jays to use new bullpen approach vs. Guardians  Apr 19, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images   The Toronto Blue Jays will be going to a closer-by-committee if the situation arises Saturday afternoon against the visiting Cleveland Guardians.  Jeff Hoffman has struggled as the closer this season and he was told Friday by manager John Schneider that the team will mix-and-match for now instead of putting the onus on one particular pitcher in the ninth inning.  “It’s still finding spots for guys, so whoever that may be in the ninth inning, for now, it’ll be that guy,” Schneider said.  The Blue Jays did not need a closer in their 8-6 loss to Cleveland on Friday in the opener of the three-game series. Toronto fell behind 5-0 and never had a lead.  Hoffman understood the move, saying there are other relievers pitching better than him currently. The right-hander is 3-for-6 on save chances to go with a 1-2 record and a 7.59 ERA.  “That gives them the nod to go out there and do it for the group,” he said. “I’m good for whatever is going to put us in the best position to win as many games as possible.”  Schneider said, “I don’t want to lose sight of the fact that he’s striking out half the hitters he’s facing. There’s a component to it where you want to just stop some momentum, and we’re still going to use him in big spots.”  The Blue Jays will look to bounce back when they send out right-hander Kevin Gausman (1-1, 2.54 ERA) on Saturday. Gausman is 5-5 with a 2.30 ERA in 11 games (10 starts) against Cleveland. Last season, he was 1-0 with 0.00 ERA in two starts vs. the Guardians, allowing three hits, two walks and one hit batter while striking out 15 in 14 innings.  Left-hander Joey Cantillo (1-0, 3.20 ERA) is scheduled to start for the Guardians. He has pitched one-third of an inning in his career against Toronto, retiring the only batter he faced last season.   The Guardians expect to have struggling Steven Kwan back in the lineup on Saturday after he didn’t start on Friday. Kwan, who is batting .227 (22-for-97) with one homer and eight RBIs, did enter the game as a ninth-inning defensive replacement in the series opener.  “We were looking to get him two days off and one of them on the (Rogers Centre) turf,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said. “We just wanted to give him a chance to reset the legs. Playing center field is a new beast. We just wanted to give him two days to get his body back underneath him.”  Kwan, a four-time Gold Glove left fielder, has been playing mostly in center this season.  “I don’t think moving between left and center field has affected his offense,” Vogt said, “but it’s a new workload that he’s never had in the big leagues. I wouldn’t read any more into this day off other than we wanted to get him two days off by using the off day (Thursday).”  It worked out well. Daniel Schneemann replaced Kwan in the leadoff spot on Friday and Angel Martinez started in center field.  Schneemann, batting leadoff for the first time this season, led off the game with a home run against Max Scherzer. He also walked and doubled.  Martinez hit two-run homers in the first and third innings.  Toronto lost Nathan Lukes in the first inning Friday when he left the game with what the team announced was left hamstring discomfort. Schneider said the outfielder was to going have an MRI.  –Field Level Media    #Deadspin #Blue #Jays #bullpen #approach #Guardians

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