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Trust, communication with players is key for success as coach: Pakistan’s Sarfaraz Ahmed ahead of Bangladesh Test series  Mutual trust and clear communication with players is key for becoming a successful coach, Pakistan’s new Test format head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed said on Wednesday.The first assignment for the 2017 Champions Trophy-winning captain will be a two-Test series in Bangladesh from May 8, which will be Pakistan’s second outing in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.“The technical aspects come later. What is important is that a coach has such a relationship with his players that they understand what he wants and at the same time they are comfortable and trust him enough to sit down with him and discuss anything,” Sarfaraz said while responding to a question about his limited experience as coach.The majority of the players named in the Test squad for Bangladesh are busy playing in the Pakistan Super League final stages, and the wicketkeeper-batter admitted it would be a challenge for even senior players to adapt to red-ball cricket after playing T20 cricket for over a month.Sarfaraz also felt that having played with some of the players in the Test squad and having captained them, it would be a plus point to settle into his new job.The former captain was last year named mentor and manager of the Pakistan under-19 and Shaheens (Pakistan A) squad.He accompanied them for the Asia Cup and Youth World Cup, but on returning home, he was appointed a member of the national selection committee and later the red-ball head coach.“I had a very good cricket career. I want to repeat the success as a coach. I have gained some experience in coaching at the domestic level and at the cricket academy, but obviously, Test cricket is very different, and I am confident that with time, the exposure will help me a lot,” he added.He said premier batter Babar Azam’s return to form in the PSL was a good sign for the upcoming tour despite the formats being different.“The main thing is he is back to playing technically good cricket.”Sarfaraz said Bangladesh would offer strong competition to Pakistan in its own backyard, and his team will go there prepared for both spin and pace-oriented pitches.Published on Apr 29, 2026  #Trust #communication #players #key #success #coach #Pakistans #Sarfaraz #Ahmed #ahead #Bangladesh #Test #series

Trust, communication with players is key for success as coach: Pakistan’s Sarfaraz Ahmed ahead of Bangladesh Test series

Mutual trust and clear communication with players is key for becoming a successful coach, Pakistan’s new Test format head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed said on Wednesday.

The first assignment for the 2017 Champions Trophy-winning captain will be a two-Test series in Bangladesh from May 8, which will be Pakistan’s second outing in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

“The technical aspects come later. What is important is that a coach has such a relationship with his players that they understand what he wants and at the same time they are comfortable and trust him enough to sit down with him and discuss anything,” Sarfaraz said while responding to a question about his limited experience as coach.

The majority of the players named in the Test squad for Bangladesh are busy playing in the Pakistan Super League final stages, and the wicketkeeper-batter admitted it would be a challenge for even senior players to adapt to red-ball cricket after playing T20 cricket for over a month.

Sarfaraz also felt that having played with some of the players in the Test squad and having captained them, it would be a plus point to settle into his new job.

The former captain was last year named mentor and manager of the Pakistan under-19 and Shaheens (Pakistan A) squad.

He accompanied them for the Asia Cup and Youth World Cup, but on returning home, he was appointed a member of the national selection committee and later the red-ball head coach.

“I had a very good cricket career. I want to repeat the success as a coach. I have gained some experience in coaching at the domestic level and at the cricket academy, but obviously, Test cricket is very different, and I am confident that with time, the exposure will help me a lot,” he added.

He said premier batter Babar Azam’s return to form in the PSL was a good sign for the upcoming tour despite the formats being different.

“The main thing is he is back to playing technically good cricket.”

Sarfaraz said Bangladesh would offer strong competition to Pakistan in its own backyard, and his team will go there prepared for both spin and pace-oriented pitches.

Published on Apr 29, 2026

#Trust #communication #players #key #success #coach #Pakistans #Sarfaraz #Ahmed #ahead #Bangladesh #Test #series

Mutual trust and clear communication with players is key for becoming a successful coach, Pakistan’s new Test format head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed said on Wednesday.

The first assignment for the 2017 Champions Trophy-winning captain will be a two-Test series in Bangladesh from May 8, which will be Pakistan’s second outing in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

“The technical aspects come later. What is important is that a coach has such a relationship with his players that they understand what he wants and at the same time they are comfortable and trust him enough to sit down with him and discuss anything,” Sarfaraz said while responding to a question about his limited experience as coach.

The majority of the players named in the Test squad for Bangladesh are busy playing in the Pakistan Super League final stages, and the wicketkeeper-batter admitted it would be a challenge for even senior players to adapt to red-ball cricket after playing T20 cricket for over a month.

Sarfaraz also felt that having played with some of the players in the Test squad and having captained them, it would be a plus point to settle into his new job.

The former captain was last year named mentor and manager of the Pakistan under-19 and Shaheens (Pakistan A) squad.

He accompanied them for the Asia Cup and Youth World Cup, but on returning home, he was appointed a member of the national selection committee and later the red-ball head coach.

“I had a very good cricket career. I want to repeat the success as a coach. I have gained some experience in coaching at the domestic level and at the cricket academy, but obviously, Test cricket is very different, and I am confident that with time, the exposure will help me a lot,” he added.

He said premier batter Babar Azam’s return to form in the PSL was a good sign for the upcoming tour despite the formats being different.

“The main thing is he is back to playing technically good cricket.”

Sarfaraz said Bangladesh would offer strong competition to Pakistan in its own backyard, and his team will go there prepared for both spin and pace-oriented pitches.

Published on Apr 29, 2026

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#Trust #communication #players #key #success #coach #Pakistans #Sarfaraz #Ahmed #ahead #Bangladesh #Test #series

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Deadspin | Bo Bichette, Clay Holmes help Mets blank Nationals <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28833290.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28833290.jpg" alt="MLB: Washington Nationals at New York Mets" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 28, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets third baseman Bo Bichette (19) circles the bases after hitting a leadoff home run in the first inning against the Washington Nationals at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Clay Holmes threw six scoreless innings Tuesday night for the struggling New York Mets, who rolled to an 8-0 victory over the visiting Washington Nationals in the opener of a three-game series between the National League East rivals.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Bo Bichette homered leading off the first and Juan Soto’s two-run blast closed out a seven-run fourth-inning outburst for the Mets, who are just 3-15 since Apr. 8 — a span in which they’ve been outscored 87-47.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Three players had a hit apiece the Nationals, who have lost seven of 11.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Holmes (3-2) gave up three hits and one walk while striking out six. The Nationals got their only runner into scoring position in the second, when Holmes escaped a two-on jam by striking out Luis Garcia Jr.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Tobias Myers tossed two hitless innings before Craig Kimbrel struck out the side in a perfect ninth.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-6"> <p>Bichette was the only Mets player to reach base in the first three innings against Zack Littell (0-4), who retired eight in a row following Bichette’s homer before he walked the third baseman in the third.</p> </section> <section id="section-7"> <p>MJ Melendez singled with one out in the fourth and Mark Vientos and Brett Baty walked. Melendez and Vientos then scored when third baseman Jorbit Vivas misplayed Marcus Semien’s grounder.</p> </section><section id="section-8"> <p>Carson Benge laced a two-RBI single on the next pitch and Ronny Mauricio singled before Benge trotted home on Bichette’s long fly to right. Soto chased Littell with his second homer of the season and his first since Apr. 1.</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>Benge had two hits — his third multi-hit effort in his last four starts. The rookie outfielder had multiple hits just once in his first 21 games (19 starts).</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>Littell allowed the eight runs (four earned) on five hits and three walks while striking out one over 3 2/3 innings. He has given up 24 runs (18 earned) over just 13 2/3 innings in his last three starts.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Bichette #Clay #Holmes #Mets #blank #Nationals

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Deadspin | Cubs’ Justin Steele (elbow) sidelined late in Tommy John recovery <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/25872801.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/25872801.jpg" alt="MLB: Texas Rangers at Chicago Cubs" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 7, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Justin Steele (35) delivers against the Texas Rangers during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Chicago Cubs left-hander Justin Steele has been shut down in his recovery from Tommy John surgery, manager Craig Counsell said Tuesday.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Steele, who last pitched for Chicago on April 7, 2025, was trending towards a return in late May or early June, but has now stopped throwing as he deals with a left elbow flexor strain.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-3"> <p>He’ll be re-evaluated in another month. It’s not entirely clear how much longer that could delay Steele’s return for a Cubs pitching staff that’s already without right-hander Cade Horton due to Tommy John surgery.</p> </section> <section id="section-4"> <p>This Tommy John surgery was the second of Steele’s career. Now 30, he previously had the same procedure done when he was a prospect in Chicago’s farm system.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Steele has been consistently effective for the Cubs when available. The 2023 All-Star who finished fifth in National League Cy Young Award voting that season has a 32-22 record and a 3.30 career ERA over 102 appearances (91 starts).</p> </section><br/><section id="section-6"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #Cubs #Justin #Steele #elbow #sidelined #late #Tommy #John #recovery

MLB Picks Today: Astros vs Orioles and Dodgers vs Marlins Best Bets | Deadspin.com  Apr 1, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Sandy Alcantara (22) pitches against the Chicago White Sox in the first inning at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images   How about a little East Coast-West Coast combo for our MLB picks today?Season Record 14-12-1, -0.42 UnitsAstros at OriolesAstros F5 (+102 BetRivers)It’s been quite the mess for Houston so far in 2025.Expected to compete for the AL West as always, they have instead fallen on hard times amid a raft of pitcher injuries. But this is an organization with an excellent record of developing arms, and they may have found one in today’s starter, Peter Lambert. You might recognize the name as he pitched parts of four seasons in Colorado from 2019 to 2024, never logging more than 89.1 IP in the majors and never finishing a season with an ERA under 5.36.Well, he took his talents (or at that point, lack thereof) to Japan last year and well, was just okay there too with a 4.26 ERA and 20.1% K%. The Astros brought him back and appeared to have unlocked something in the minors as he had a 1.84 ERA and 0.95 WHIP in three minor league starts, and now a 3.27 ERA in 11 IP with a whopping 33.3% K% and 17.7% SwSwr% over two starts in MLB. His fastball has gone up about 2 MPH over where he typically sat in his Rockies days, and he’s now added a cutter to his arsenal. Are his improvements for real? Well, the results look promising very early on.His Stuff+ is 94 if you’re into that sort of thing, which indicates he’s a shade below average.He does appear to have the upper hand tonight as he faces off against the Orioles Chris Bassitt. The well-traveled vet has gotten off to a brutal start in Baltimore, with a super ugly 6.75 ERA and 2.08 WHIP. His -2.70% K-BB% is the worst in MLB among starters who have logged at least 10 IP.The best I can say is he keeps the ball on the ground and his EV allowed is low so there’s always a chance all the contact he induces will go to his fielders. The Astros have one of the best offenses in the league though and they have a 120 wRC+ on the road this year and an identical 120 wRC+ vs. righties. The Orioles for their part have a 119 wRC+ at home, so it’s a pretty even battle at the plate. Give me the Astros as I’d rather take the unknown SP who looks great right now vs. the aging vet who looks absolutely cooked right now. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting  Marlins at DodgersSandy Alcantara Over 17.5 Outs Recorded (-107 DraftKings)The Marlins ace looked back to his Cy Young form through his first three starts as he logged 24.1 IP and the only two runs he allowed were in the 9th inning of the third start.He was just two outs away from a second straight complete game shutout, which makes him a regular Old Hoss Radbourne in today’s game. The last three outings have not gone so great, 17 IP, 6.35 ERA and 1.88 WHIP and he’s at the Dodgers tonight. But innings are what Sandy does. He induces a lot of grounders (48%) and has low whiff and walk and barrel rates.So in games where he’s not getting BABIP-ed around he’s extremely efficient. Let’s back on another Sandy Special today. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting   #MLB #Picks #Today #Astros #Orioles #Dodgers #Marlins #Bets #Deadspin.comApr 1, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Sandy Alcantara (22) pitches against the Chicago White Sox in the first inning at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

How about a little East Coast-West Coast combo for our MLB picks today?

Season Record 14-12-1, -0.42 Units

Astros at Orioles

Astros F5 (+102 BetRivers)

It’s been quite the mess for Houston so far in 2025.

Expected to compete for the AL West as always, they have instead fallen on hard times amid a raft of pitcher injuries. But this is an organization with an excellent record of developing arms, and they may have found one in today’s starter, Peter Lambert. You might recognize the name as he pitched parts of four seasons in Colorado from 2019 to 2024, never logging more than 89.1 IP in the majors and never finishing a season with an ERA under 5.36.

Well, he took his talents (or at that point, lack thereof) to Japan last year and well, was just okay there too with a 4.26 ERA and 20.1% K%. The Astros brought him back and appeared to have unlocked something in the minors as he had a 1.84 ERA and 0.95 WHIP in three minor league starts, and now a 3.27 ERA in 11 IP with a whopping 33.3% K% and 17.7% SwSwr% over two starts in MLB. His fastball has gone up about 2 MPH over where he typically sat in his Rockies days, and he’s now added a cutter to his arsenal. Are his improvements for real? Well, the results look promising very early on.

His Stuff+ is 94 if you’re into that sort of thing, which indicates he’s a shade below average.

He does appear to have the upper hand tonight as he faces off against the Orioles Chris Bassitt. The well-traveled vet has gotten off to a brutal start in Baltimore, with a super ugly 6.75 ERA and 2.08 WHIP. His -2.70% K-BB% is the worst in MLB among starters who have logged at least 10 IP.

The best I can say is he keeps the ball on the ground and his EV allowed is low so there’s always a chance all the contact he induces will go to his fielders. The Astros have one of the best offenses in the league though and they have a 120 wRC+ on the road this year and an identical 120 wRC+ vs. righties. The Orioles for their part have a 119 wRC+ at home, so it’s a pretty even battle at the plate. Give me the Astros as I’d rather take the unknown SP who looks great right now vs. the aging vet who looks absolutely cooked right now.

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Marlins at Dodgers

Sandy Alcantara Over 17.5 Outs Recorded (-107 DraftKings)

The Marlins ace looked back to his Cy Young form through his first three starts as he logged 24.1 IP and the only two runs he allowed were in the 9th inning of the third start.

He was just two outs away from a second straight complete game shutout, which makes him a regular Old Hoss Radbourne in today’s game. The last three outings have not gone so great, 17 IP, 6.35 ERA and 1.88 WHIP and he’s at the Dodgers tonight. But innings are what Sandy does. He induces a lot of grounders (48%) and has low whiff and walk and barrel rates.

So in games where he’s not getting BABIP-ed around he’s extremely efficient. Let’s back on another Sandy Special today.

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#MLB #Picks #Today #Astros #Orioles #Dodgers #Marlins #Bets #Deadspin.com">MLB Picks Today: Astros vs Orioles and Dodgers vs Marlins Best Bets | Deadspin.com  Apr 1, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Sandy Alcantara (22) pitches against the Chicago White Sox in the first inning at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images   How about a little East Coast-West Coast combo for our MLB picks today?Season Record 14-12-1, -0.42 UnitsAstros at OriolesAstros F5 (+102 BetRivers)It’s been quite the mess for Houston so far in 2025.Expected to compete for the AL West as always, they have instead fallen on hard times amid a raft of pitcher injuries. But this is an organization with an excellent record of developing arms, and they may have found one in today’s starter, Peter Lambert. You might recognize the name as he pitched parts of four seasons in Colorado from 2019 to 2024, never logging more than 89.1 IP in the majors and never finishing a season with an ERA under 5.36.Well, he took his talents (or at that point, lack thereof) to Japan last year and well, was just okay there too with a 4.26 ERA and 20.1% K%. The Astros brought him back and appeared to have unlocked something in the minors as he had a 1.84 ERA and 0.95 WHIP in three minor league starts, and now a 3.27 ERA in 11 IP with a whopping 33.3% K% and 17.7% SwSwr% over two starts in MLB. His fastball has gone up about 2 MPH over where he typically sat in his Rockies days, and he’s now added a cutter to his arsenal. Are his improvements for real? Well, the results look promising very early on.His Stuff+ is 94 if you’re into that sort of thing, which indicates he’s a shade below average.He does appear to have the upper hand tonight as he faces off against the Orioles Chris Bassitt. The well-traveled vet has gotten off to a brutal start in Baltimore, with a super ugly 6.75 ERA and 2.08 WHIP. His -2.70% K-BB% is the worst in MLB among starters who have logged at least 10 IP.The best I can say is he keeps the ball on the ground and his EV allowed is low so there’s always a chance all the contact he induces will go to his fielders. The Astros have one of the best offenses in the league though and they have a 120 wRC+ on the road this year and an identical 120 wRC+ vs. righties. The Orioles for their part have a 119 wRC+ at home, so it’s a pretty even battle at the plate. Give me the Astros as I’d rather take the unknown SP who looks great right now vs. the aging vet who looks absolutely cooked right now. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting  Marlins at DodgersSandy Alcantara Over 17.5 Outs Recorded (-107 DraftKings)The Marlins ace looked back to his Cy Young form through his first three starts as he logged 24.1 IP and the only two runs he allowed were in the 9th inning of the third start.He was just two outs away from a second straight complete game shutout, which makes him a regular Old Hoss Radbourne in today’s game. The last three outings have not gone so great, 17 IP, 6.35 ERA and 1.88 WHIP and he’s at the Dodgers tonight. But innings are what Sandy does. He induces a lot of grounders (48%) and has low whiff and walk and barrel rates.So in games where he’s not getting BABIP-ed around he’s extremely efficient. Let’s back on another Sandy Special today. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting   #MLB #Picks #Today #Astros #Orioles #Dodgers #Marlins #Bets #Deadspin.com

for the AL West as always, they have instead fallen on hard times amid a raft of pitcher injuries. But this is an organization with an excellent record of developing arms, and they may have found one in today’s starter, Peter Lambert. You might recognize the name as he pitched parts of four seasons in Colorado from 2019 to 2024, never logging more than 89.1 IP in the majors and never finishing a season with an ERA under 5.36.

Well, he took his talents (or at that point, lack thereof) to Japan last year and well, was just okay there too with a 4.26 ERA and 20.1% K%. The Astros brought him back and appeared to have unlocked something in the minors as he had a 1.84 ERA and 0.95 WHIP in three minor league starts, and now a 3.27 ERA in 11 IP with a whopping 33.3% K% and 17.7% SwSwr% over two starts in MLB. His fastball has gone up about 2 MPH over where he typically sat in his Rockies days, and he’s now added a cutter to his arsenal. Are his improvements for real? Well, the results look promising very early on.

His Stuff+ is 94 if you’re into that sort of thing, which indicates he’s a shade below average.

He does appear to have the upper hand tonight as he faces off against the Orioles Chris Bassitt. The well-traveled vet has gotten off to a brutal start in Baltimore, with a super ugly 6.75 ERA and 2.08 WHIP. His -2.70% K-BB% is the worst in MLB among starters who have logged at least 10 IP.

The best I can say is he keeps the ball on the ground and his EV allowed is low so there’s always a chance all the contact he induces will go to his fielders. The Astros have one of the best offenses in the league though and they have a 120 wRC+ on the road this year and an identical 120 wRC+ vs. righties. The Orioles for their part have a 119 wRC+ at home, so it’s a pretty even battle at the plate. Give me the Astros as I’d rather take the unknown SP who looks great right now vs. the aging vet who looks absolutely cooked right now.

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Channel debug: betting

Marlins at Dodgers

Sandy Alcantara Over 17.5 Outs Recorded (-107 DraftKings)

The Marlins ace looked back to his Cy Young form through his first three starts as he logged 24.1 IP and the only two runs he allowed were in the 9th inning of the third start.

He was just two outs away from a second straight complete game shutout, which makes him a regular Old Hoss Radbourne in today’s game. The last three outings have not gone so great, 17 IP, 6.35 ERA and 1.88 WHIP and he’s at the Dodgers tonight. But innings are what Sandy does. He induces a lot of grounders (48%) and has low whiff and walk and barrel rates.

So in games where he’s not getting BABIP-ed around he’s extremely efficient. Let’s back on another Sandy Special today.

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Channel debug: betting

#MLB #Picks #Today #Astros #Orioles #Dodgers #Marlins #Bets #Deadspin.com">MLB Picks Today: Astros vs Orioles and Dodgers vs Marlins Best Bets | Deadspin.com
MLB Picks Today: Astros vs Orioles and Dodgers vs Marlins Best Bets | Deadspin.com  Apr 1, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Sandy Alcantara (22) pitches against the Chicago White Sox in the first inning at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images   How about a little East Coast-West Coast combo for our MLB picks today?Season Record 14-12-1, -0.42 UnitsAstros at OriolesAstros F5 (+102 BetRivers)It’s been quite the mess for Houston so far in 2025.Expected to compete for the AL West as always, they have instead fallen on hard times amid a raft of pitcher injuries. But this is an organization with an excellent record of developing arms, and they may have found one in today’s starter, Peter Lambert. You might recognize the name as he pitched parts of four seasons in Colorado from 2019 to 2024, never logging more than 89.1 IP in the majors and never finishing a season with an ERA under 5.36.Well, he took his talents (or at that point, lack thereof) to Japan last year and well, was just okay there too with a 4.26 ERA and 20.1% K%. The Astros brought him back and appeared to have unlocked something in the minors as he had a 1.84 ERA and 0.95 WHIP in three minor league starts, and now a 3.27 ERA in 11 IP with a whopping 33.3% K% and 17.7% SwSwr% over two starts in MLB. His fastball has gone up about 2 MPH over where he typically sat in his Rockies days, and he’s now added a cutter to his arsenal. Are his improvements for real? Well, the results look promising very early on.His Stuff+ is 94 if you’re into that sort of thing, which indicates he’s a shade below average.He does appear to have the upper hand tonight as he faces off against the Orioles Chris Bassitt. The well-traveled vet has gotten off to a brutal start in Baltimore, with a super ugly 6.75 ERA and 2.08 WHIP. His -2.70% K-BB% is the worst in MLB among starters who have logged at least 10 IP.The best I can say is he keeps the ball on the ground and his EV allowed is low so there’s always a chance all the contact he induces will go to his fielders. The Astros have one of the best offenses in the league though and they have a 120 wRC+ on the road this year and an identical 120 wRC+ vs. righties. The Orioles for their part have a 119 wRC+ at home, so it’s a pretty even battle at the plate. Give me the Astros as I’d rather take the unknown SP who looks great right now vs. the aging vet who looks absolutely cooked right now. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting  Marlins at DodgersSandy Alcantara Over 17.5 Outs Recorded (-107 DraftKings)The Marlins ace looked back to his Cy Young form through his first three starts as he logged 24.1 IP and the only two runs he allowed were in the 9th inning of the third start.He was just two outs away from a second straight complete game shutout, which makes him a regular Old Hoss Radbourne in today’s game. The last three outings have not gone so great, 17 IP, 6.35 ERA and 1.88 WHIP and he’s at the Dodgers tonight. But innings are what Sandy does. He induces a lot of grounders (48%) and has low whiff and walk and barrel rates.So in games where he’s not getting BABIP-ed around he’s extremely efficient. Let’s back on another Sandy Special today. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting   #MLB #Picks #Today #Astros #Orioles #Dodgers #Marlins #Bets #Deadspin.comApr 1, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Sandy Alcantara (22) pitches against the Chicago White Sox in the first inning at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

How about a little East Coast-West Coast combo for our MLB picks today?

Season Record 14-12-1, -0.42 Units

Astros at Orioles

Astros F5 (+102 BetRivers)

It’s been quite the mess for Houston so far in 2025.

Expected to compete for the AL West as always, they have instead fallen on hard times amid a raft of pitcher injuries. But this is an organization with an excellent record of developing arms, and they may have found one in today’s starter, Peter Lambert. You might recognize the name as he pitched parts of four seasons in Colorado from 2019 to 2024, never logging more than 89.1 IP in the majors and never finishing a season with an ERA under 5.36.

Well, he took his talents (or at that point, lack thereof) to Japan last year and well, was just okay there too with a 4.26 ERA and 20.1% K%. The Astros brought him back and appeared to have unlocked something in the minors as he had a 1.84 ERA and 0.95 WHIP in three minor league starts, and now a 3.27 ERA in 11 IP with a whopping 33.3% K% and 17.7% SwSwr% over two starts in MLB. His fastball has gone up about 2 MPH over where he typically sat in his Rockies days, and he’s now added a cutter to his arsenal. Are his improvements for real? Well, the results look promising very early on.

His Stuff+ is 94 if you’re into that sort of thing, which indicates he’s a shade below average.

He does appear to have the upper hand tonight as he faces off against the Orioles Chris Bassitt. The well-traveled vet has gotten off to a brutal start in Baltimore, with a super ugly 6.75 ERA and 2.08 WHIP. His -2.70% K-BB% is the worst in MLB among starters who have logged at least 10 IP.

The best I can say is he keeps the ball on the ground and his EV allowed is low so there’s always a chance all the contact he induces will go to his fielders. The Astros have one of the best offenses in the league though and they have a 120 wRC+ on the road this year and an identical 120 wRC+ vs. righties. The Orioles for their part have a 119 wRC+ at home, so it’s a pretty even battle at the plate. Give me the Astros as I’d rather take the unknown SP who looks great right now vs. the aging vet who looks absolutely cooked right now.

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Channel debug: betting

Marlins at Dodgers

Sandy Alcantara Over 17.5 Outs Recorded (-107 DraftKings)

The Marlins ace looked back to his Cy Young form through his first three starts as he logged 24.1 IP and the only two runs he allowed were in the 9th inning of the third start.

He was just two outs away from a second straight complete game shutout, which makes him a regular Old Hoss Radbourne in today’s game. The last three outings have not gone so great, 17 IP, 6.35 ERA and 1.88 WHIP and he’s at the Dodgers tonight. But innings are what Sandy does. He induces a lot of grounders (48%) and has low whiff and walk and barrel rates.

So in games where he’s not getting BABIP-ed around he’s extremely efficient. Let’s back on another Sandy Special today.

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The Spanish football federation banned Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada for 13 matches on Wednesday after he punched Huesca player Jorge Pulido in the face.

The federation’s disciplinary committee said in a statement that the Argentina international and his club would also be fined. Andrada was sent off before he “attacked” Pulido during the second-tier derby last Sunday.

Andrada was handed a 12-match ban for the punch, while his initial red card carried an automatic one-match suspension. The punishment rules him out for the rest of the season and deals a blow to Zaragoza’s hopes in its battle to avoid relegation.

The 35-year-old, on loan from Mexican side Monterrey, shoved Pulido and was shown a second yellow card for the incident.

ALSO READ: FIFA opens talks on rule requiring clubs to field one homegrown young player during matches

Andrada then became enraged, running towards Pulido and hitting him, sparking a brawl on the pitch in stoppage time.

“The truth is I’m very, very sorry for what happened,” Andrada said afterwards.

“It’s not a good image for the club, for the fans, and especially not for a professional like myself. So, I’m very sorry.”

Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jimenez and Zaragoza’s Dani Tasende were also sent off after the brawl, with host Huesca holding on for a 1-0 win. Jimenez was banned for four matches and Tasende for two.

“We witnessed scenes unbecoming of this sport and which should never have occurred,” Zaragoza said in a statement on Sunday.

Published on Apr 29, 2026

#Real #Zaragoza #keeper #Esteban #banned #games #punching #Huesca #player #Jorge">Real Zaragoza keeper Esteban banned for 13 games after punching Huesca player Jorge  The Spanish football federation banned Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada for 13 matches on Wednesday after he punched Huesca player Jorge Pulido in the face.The federation’s disciplinary committee said in a statement that the Argentina international and his club would also be fined. Andrada was sent off before he “attacked” Pulido during the second-tier derby last Sunday.Andrada was handed a 12-match ban for the punch, while his initial red card carried an automatic one-match suspension. The punishment rules him out for the rest of the season and deals a blow to Zaragoza’s hopes in its battle to avoid relegation.The 35-year-old, on loan from Mexican side Monterrey, shoved Pulido and was shown a second yellow card for the incident.ALSO READ: FIFA opens talks on rule requiring clubs to field one homegrown young player during matchesAndrada then became enraged, running towards Pulido and hitting him, sparking a brawl on the pitch in stoppage time.“The truth is I’m very, very sorry for what happened,” Andrada said afterwards.“It’s not a good image for the club, for the fans, and especially not for a professional like myself. So, I’m very sorry.”Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jimenez and Zaragoza’s Dani Tasende were also sent off after the brawl, with host Huesca holding on for a 1-0 win. Jimenez was banned for four matches and Tasende for two.“We witnessed scenes unbecoming of this sport and which should never have occurred,” Zaragoza said in a statement on Sunday.Published on Apr 29, 2026  #Real #Zaragoza #keeper #Esteban #banned #games #punching #Huesca #player #Jorge

FIFA opens talks on rule requiring clubs to field one homegrown young player during matches

Andrada then became enraged, running towards Pulido and hitting him, sparking a brawl on the pitch in stoppage time.

“The truth is I’m very, very sorry for what happened,” Andrada said afterwards.

“It’s not a good image for the club, for the fans, and especially not for a professional like myself. So, I’m very sorry.”

Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jimenez and Zaragoza’s Dani Tasende were also sent off after the brawl, with host Huesca holding on for a 1-0 win. Jimenez was banned for four matches and Tasende for two.

“We witnessed scenes unbecoming of this sport and which should never have occurred,” Zaragoza said in a statement on Sunday.

Published on Apr 29, 2026

#Real #Zaragoza #keeper #Esteban #banned #games #punching #Huesca #player #Jorge">Real Zaragoza keeper Esteban banned for 13 games after punching Huesca player Jorge

The Spanish football federation banned Real Zaragoza goalkeeper Esteban Andrada for 13 matches on Wednesday after he punched Huesca player Jorge Pulido in the face.

The federation’s disciplinary committee said in a statement that the Argentina international and his club would also be fined. Andrada was sent off before he “attacked” Pulido during the second-tier derby last Sunday.

Andrada was handed a 12-match ban for the punch, while his initial red card carried an automatic one-match suspension. The punishment rules him out for the rest of the season and deals a blow to Zaragoza’s hopes in its battle to avoid relegation.

The 35-year-old, on loan from Mexican side Monterrey, shoved Pulido and was shown a second yellow card for the incident.

ALSO READ: FIFA opens talks on rule requiring clubs to field one homegrown young player during matches

Andrada then became enraged, running towards Pulido and hitting him, sparking a brawl on the pitch in stoppage time.

“The truth is I’m very, very sorry for what happened,” Andrada said afterwards.

“It’s not a good image for the club, for the fans, and especially not for a professional like myself. So, I’m very sorry.”

Huesca goalkeeper Dani Jimenez and Zaragoza’s Dani Tasende were also sent off after the brawl, with host Huesca holding on for a 1-0 win. Jimenez was banned for four matches and Tasende for two.

“We witnessed scenes unbecoming of this sport and which should never have occurred,” Zaragoza said in a statement on Sunday.

Published on Apr 29, 2026

#Real #Zaragoza #keeper #Esteban #banned #games #punching #Huesca #player #Jorge

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