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WATCH | Sanjay Manjrekar breaks down the technical change behind Sanju Samson’s recent success It has been a 2026 to remember for Sanju Samson. After initially being dropped from India’s T20 team the 31-year-old returned to the team in memorable fashion, smashing three fifties in three knockout matches as India romped home to its third T20 World Cup title.He has carried that form forward into his maiden stint with Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026, smashing two centuries in his first eight outings, and has been the lone bright spark in what has been a tough season for the Chennai Super Kings batting group with 304 runs at an average of 50.66 and strike-rate of 169.83. This recent form is the culmination of a recent turnaround for the batter, who has added the element of consistency to his much-vaunted batting style. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHZKfnILQsI[/embed]It is a change that Sanjay Manjrekar puts down to a technical change. “He has this very beautiful stance, slightly open and nicely balanced, very relaxed. Now, earlier, he had this one movement, a small step forward. And from this position, his whole batting would happen,” Manjrekar explained on Sportstar’s Insight Edge podcast.“Now, what he has started doing in the same position, he goes right back. Now, the ball is further away from me, so I’m able to pull it and there is more time for me to react to that ball.”ALSO READ: Sanjay Manjrekar: KL Rahul can bat at any position, provided he doesn’t think his wicket matters “The other thing that happens is when you go right back, the bowler sort of becomes a little slower because I’m further away from him. So I get a little more time,” he further explained. Manjrekar also noted that Samson had added another shot to his repertoire, the dab to third man. “When there is a good ball that’s bowled very close to him, he’s doing a little tap down to the third man. If he was in the original position, there was no way he would be able to play that.”“So basically what he’s done is gone back and he’s made all these balls, good balls, scoring deliveries.“The one ball that can trouble him, if there’s a smart bowler, is if he pitches the ball right up and that troubles him. But he’s also a good front foot player, so if the pitch is not lively, the ball is not moving much, he’s able to drive off the front foot,’ Manjrekar concluded.Manjrekar also said that Samson’s mentality has contributed to his success, saying, ”Mentally he’s a very interesting character. He’s a very relaxed guy, and it’s not an act, he is genuinely relaxed.”“In the T20 World Cup, the thing to like about him was the demeanour he has. He played a game and was dropped, but when he came back, he was OK to get out, he didn’t mind getting out. He’s not someone who, because he was out of the team and needs to prove himself, will just pick up the ones and twos, and be the anchor. He’s very selfless. That is the thing to like about him.”Published on May 01, 2026 #WATCH #Sanjay #Manjrekar #breaks #technical #change #Sanju #Samsons #success

WATCH | Sanjay Manjrekar breaks down the technical change behind Sanju Samson’s recent success

It has been a 2026 to remember for Sanju Samson. After initially being dropped from India’s T20 team the 31-year-old returned to the team in memorable fashion, smashing three fifties in three knockout matches as India romped home to its third T20 World Cup title.

He has carried that form forward into his maiden stint with Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026, smashing two centuries in his first eight outings, and has been the lone bright spark in what has been a tough season for the Chennai Super Kings batting group with 304 runs at an average of 50.66 and strike-rate of 169.83. 

This recent form is the culmination of a recent turnaround for the batter, who has added the element of consistency to his much-vaunted batting style. 

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHZKfnILQsI[/embed]

It is a change that Sanjay Manjrekar puts down to a technical change. “He has this very beautiful stance, slightly open and nicely balanced, very relaxed. Now, earlier, he had this one movement, a small step forward. And from this position, his whole batting would happen,” Manjrekar explained on Sportstar’s Insight Edge podcast.

“Now, what he has started doing in the same position, he goes right back. Now, the ball is further away from me, so I’m able to pull it and there is more time for me to react to that ball.”

ALSO READ: Sanjay Manjrekar: KL Rahul can bat at any position, provided he doesn’t think his wicket matters 

“The other thing that happens is when you go right back, the bowler sort of becomes a little slower because I’m further away from him. So I get a little more time,” he further explained. 

Manjrekar also noted that Samson had added another shot to his repertoire, the dab to third man. “When there is a good ball that’s bowled very close to him, he’s doing a little tap down to the third man. If he was in the original position, there was no way he would be able to play that.

”“So basically what he’s done is gone back and he’s made all these balls, good balls, scoring deliveries.

“The one ball that can trouble him, if there’s a smart bowler, is if he pitches the ball right up and that troubles him. But he’s also a good front foot player, so if the pitch is not lively, the ball is not moving much, he’s able to drive off the front foot,’ Manjrekar concluded.

Manjrekar also said that Samson’s mentality has contributed to his success, saying, ”Mentally he’s a very interesting character. He’s a very relaxed guy, and it’s not an act, he is genuinely relaxed.”

“In the T20 World Cup, the thing to like about him was the demeanour he has. He played a game and was dropped, but when he came back, he was OK to get out, he didn’t mind getting out. He’s not someone who, because he was out of the team and needs to prove himself, will just pick up the ones and twos, and be the anchor. He’s very selfless. That is the thing to like about him.”

Published on May 01, 2026

#WATCH #Sanjay #Manjrekar #breaks #technical #change #Sanju #Samsons #success

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It has been a 2026 to remember for Sanju Samson. After initially being dropped from India’s T20 team the 31-year-old returned to the team in memorable fashion, smashing three fifties in three knockout matches as India romped home to its third T20 World Cup title.

He has carried that form forward into his maiden stint with Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026, smashing two centuries in his first eight outings, and has been the lone bright spark in what has been a tough season for the Chennai Super Kings batting group with 304 runs at an average of 50.66 and strike-rate of 169.83. 

This recent form is the culmination of a recent turnaround for the batter, who has added the element of consistency to his much-vaunted batting style. 

It is a change that Sanjay Manjrekar puts down to a technical change. “He has this very beautiful stance, slightly open and nicely balanced, very relaxed. Now, earlier, he had this one movement, a small step forward. And from this position, his whole batting would happen,” Manjrekar explained on Sportstar’s Insight Edge podcast.

“Now, what he has started doing in the same position, he goes right back. Now, the ball is further away from me, so I’m able to pull it and there is more time for me to react to that ball.”

ALSO READ: Sanjay Manjrekar: KL Rahul can bat at any position, provided he doesn’t think his wicket matters 

“The other thing that happens is when you go right back, the bowler sort of becomes a little slower because I’m further away from him. So I get a little more time,” he further explained. 

Manjrekar also noted that Samson had added another shot to his repertoire, the dab to third man. “When there is a good ball that’s bowled very close to him, he’s doing a little tap down to the third man. If he was in the original position, there was no way he would be able to play that.

”“So basically what he’s done is gone back and he’s made all these balls, good balls, scoring deliveries.

“The one ball that can trouble him, if there’s a smart bowler, is if he pitches the ball right up and that troubles him. But he’s also a good front foot player, so if the pitch is not lively, the ball is not moving much, he’s able to drive off the front foot,’ Manjrekar concluded.

Manjrekar also said that Samson’s mentality has contributed to his success, saying, ”Mentally he’s a very interesting character. He’s a very relaxed guy, and it’s not an act, he is genuinely relaxed.”

“In the T20 World Cup, the thing to like about him was the demeanour he has. He played a game and was dropped, but when he came back, he was OK to get out, he didn’t mind getting out. He’s not someone who, because he was out of the team and needs to prove himself, will just pick up the ones and twos, and be the anchor. He’s very selfless. That is the thing to like about him.”

Published on May 01, 2026

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Deadspin | Cole Young, Mariners surging ahead of opener vs. Royals Apr 29, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Seattle Mariners second baseman Cole Young (2) hits a two RBI single against the Minnesota Twins during the ninth inning at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images The Seattle Mariners found their mojo on the road. Now they’ll try to bring it back home. The Mariners just completed a 5-1 trip to St. Louis and Minnesota after losing eight of their first nine road contests and will host the Kansas City Royals on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series. The Mariners scored three runs in the top of the ninth inning Wednesday in a 5-3 win over the Twins. “A really good way to end the road trip,” Mariners manager Dan Wilson said. “A nice 5-1 road trip; we’ll take that every time.” Cole Young’s two-run single up the middle with the infield drawn in put Seattle ahead on Wednesday. “That was a lucky, lucky hit,” said Young, a second baseman in his first full major league season. “I’m just happy I got the job done.” Young, 22, has six go-ahead or game-tying RBIs in the seventh inning or later this season, the most in MLB. “It’s just calming myself down and not trying to be someone I’m not,” Young said. “I’m not trying to be a hero in every, every situation. Just pass the baton. I’m just trying to get on base, and I feel like that’s helped me out a ton.” Young went 11-for-22 on the trip, with two doubles, a home run and eight RBIs. He has driven in at least one run in six consecutive games, the longest active streak in the majors. He is batting .286 this season, with three homers and 19 RBIs. “He doesn’t let the game speed up on him,” Wilson said of Young. “He’s got really good control of his emotion. The moment doesn’t seem too big for him, which is huge. And then being able to see the pitch, let it get deep enough and not chase. He’s not afraid to go the other way with it. He’s done it several times for us, and almost every time he has used the middle of the field and opposite field.” The Royals, who are in the American League Central cellar, fell 6-3 to the Athletics on Thursday in West Sacramento, Calif. Kansas City left 12 runners on base and went 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position. “We got to keep giving ourselves those opportunities and cash them in,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “We didn’t do that (Thursday).” Kansas City is 3-12 on the road this season, averaging just 2.6 runs a game there. “Move on, keep working. It’s a long season,” said Royals infielder Maikel Garcia, who homered Thursday. “We’re going to get a lot more chances with men on base. Just keep believing in ourselves.” Friday’s series opener is scheduled to feature Royals left-hander Cole Ragans (1-4, 5.00 ERA) against Mariners right-hander Bryan Woo (1-2, 3.86). Ragans is coming off his first victory of the season, 12-1 over the visiting Los Angeles Angels on Saturday. He allowed one run on five hits over six innings, with no walks and a season-high 11 strikeouts, one shy of his career-best. Ragans is 0-0 with a 2.53 ERA in three career appearances against Seattle, including two starts. Woo will try to bounce back from his worst start of the season, in which he gave up seven runs on nine hits in just three innings Saturday in St. Louis. He didn’t receive a decision as the Mariners rallied to win 11-9. Woo, who hadn’t allowed a home run all season until that point, gave up four homers to the Cardinals on a windy afternoon at Busch Stadium. He is 1-0 with a 1.69 ERA in one previous start vs. Kansas City. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Cole #Young #Mariners #surging #ahead #opener #RoyalsApr 29, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Seattle Mariners second baseman Cole Young (2) hits a two RBI single against the Minnesota Twins during the ninth inning at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

The Seattle Mariners found their mojo on the road.

Now they’ll try to bring it back home.

The Mariners just completed a 5-1 trip to St. Louis and Minnesota after losing eight of their first nine road contests and will host the Kansas City Royals on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series.

The Mariners scored three runs in the top of the ninth inning Wednesday in a 5-3 win over the Twins.

“A really good way to end the road trip,” Mariners manager Dan Wilson said. “A nice 5-1 road trip; we’ll take that every time.”

Cole Young’s two-run single up the middle with the infield drawn in put Seattle ahead on Wednesday.

“That was a lucky, lucky hit,” said Young, a second baseman in his first full major league season. “I’m just happy I got the job done.”

Young, 22, has six go-ahead or game-tying RBIs in the seventh inning or later this season, the most in MLB.

“It’s just calming myself down and not trying to be someone I’m not,” Young said. “I’m not trying to be a hero in every, every situation. Just pass the baton. I’m just trying to get on base, and I feel like that’s helped me out a ton.”

Young went 11-for-22 on the trip, with two doubles, a home run and eight RBIs. He has driven in at least one run in six consecutive games, the longest active streak in the majors. He is batting .286 this season, with three homers and 19 RBIs.


“He doesn’t let the game speed up on him,” Wilson said of Young. “He’s got really good control of his emotion. The moment doesn’t seem too big for him, which is huge. And then being able to see the pitch, let it get deep enough and not chase. He’s not afraid to go the other way with it. He’s done it several times for us, and almost every time he has used the middle of the field and opposite field.”

The Royals, who are in the American League Central cellar, fell 6-3 to the Athletics on Thursday in West Sacramento, Calif. Kansas City left 12 runners on base and went 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position.

“We got to keep giving ourselves those opportunities and cash them in,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “We didn’t do that (Thursday).”

Kansas City is 3-12 on the road this season, averaging just 2.6 runs a game there.

“Move on, keep working. It’s a long season,” said Royals infielder Maikel Garcia, who homered Thursday. “We’re going to get a lot more chances with men on base. Just keep believing in ourselves.”

Friday’s series opener is scheduled to feature Royals left-hander Cole Ragans (1-4, 5.00 ERA) against Mariners right-hander Bryan Woo (1-2, 3.86).

Ragans is coming off his first victory of the season, 12-1 over the visiting Los Angeles Angels on Saturday. He allowed one run on five hits over six innings, with no walks and a season-high 11 strikeouts, one shy of his career-best.

Ragans is 0-0 with a 2.53 ERA in three career appearances against Seattle, including two starts.

Woo will try to bounce back from his worst start of the season, in which he gave up seven runs on nine hits in just three innings Saturday in St. Louis. He didn’t receive a decision as the Mariners rallied to win 11-9.

Woo, who hadn’t allowed a home run all season until that point, gave up four homers to the Cardinals on a windy afternoon at Busch Stadium. He is 1-0 with a 1.69 ERA in one previous start vs. Kansas City.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Cole #Young #Mariners #surging #ahead #opener #Royals">Deadspin | Cole Young, Mariners surging ahead of opener vs. Royals Apr 29, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Seattle Mariners second baseman Cole Young (2) hits a two RBI single against the Minnesota Twins during the ninth inning at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images The Seattle Mariners found their mojo on the road. Now they’ll try to bring it back home. The Mariners just completed a 5-1 trip to St. Louis and Minnesota after losing eight of their first nine road contests and will host the Kansas City Royals on Friday night in the opener of a three-game series. The Mariners scored three runs in the top of the ninth inning Wednesday in a 5-3 win over the Twins. “A really good way to end the road trip,” Mariners manager Dan Wilson said. “A nice 5-1 road trip; we’ll take that every time.” Cole Young’s two-run single up the middle with the infield drawn in put Seattle ahead on Wednesday. “That was a lucky, lucky hit,” said Young, a second baseman in his first full major league season. “I’m just happy I got the job done.” Young, 22, has six go-ahead or game-tying RBIs in the seventh inning or later this season, the most in MLB. “It’s just calming myself down and not trying to be someone I’m not,” Young said. “I’m not trying to be a hero in every, every situation. Just pass the baton. I’m just trying to get on base, and I feel like that’s helped me out a ton.” Young went 11-for-22 on the trip, with two doubles, a home run and eight RBIs. He has driven in at least one run in six consecutive games, the longest active streak in the majors. He is batting .286 this season, with three homers and 19 RBIs. “He doesn’t let the game speed up on him,” Wilson said of Young. “He’s got really good control of his emotion. The moment doesn’t seem too big for him, which is huge. And then being able to see the pitch, let it get deep enough and not chase. He’s not afraid to go the other way with it. He’s done it several times for us, and almost every time he has used the middle of the field and opposite field.” The Royals, who are in the American League Central cellar, fell 6-3 to the Athletics on Thursday in West Sacramento, Calif. Kansas City left 12 runners on base and went 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position. “We got to keep giving ourselves those opportunities and cash them in,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “We didn’t do that (Thursday).” Kansas City is 3-12 on the road this season, averaging just 2.6 runs a game there. “Move on, keep working. It’s a long season,” said Royals infielder Maikel Garcia, who homered Thursday. “We’re going to get a lot more chances with men on base. Just keep believing in ourselves.” Friday’s series opener is scheduled to feature Royals left-hander Cole Ragans (1-4, 5.00 ERA) against Mariners right-hander Bryan Woo (1-2, 3.86). Ragans is coming off his first victory of the season, 12-1 over the visiting Los Angeles Angels on Saturday. He allowed one run on five hits over six innings, with no walks and a season-high 11 strikeouts, one shy of his career-best. Ragans is 0-0 with a 2.53 ERA in three career appearances against Seattle, including two starts. Woo will try to bounce back from his worst start of the season, in which he gave up seven runs on nine hits in just three innings Saturday in St. Louis. He didn’t receive a decision as the Mariners rallied to win 11-9. Woo, who hadn’t allowed a home run all season until that point, gave up four homers to the Cardinals on a windy afternoon at Busch Stadium. He is 1-0 with a 1.69 ERA in one previous start vs. Kansas City. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Cole #Young #Mariners #surging #ahead #opener #Royals

Deadspin | Japan’s Kei Nishikori retiring from tennis after 2026 season Aug 8, 2025; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Kei Nishikori (JPN) serves against Camilo Ugo Carabelli (ARG) during the Cincinnati Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images Kei Nishikori, once ranked as high as No. 4 in the world, will retire from tennis at the end of the 2026 season. The 36-year-old Japanese trailblazer made the announcement Thursday via social media. “Since I was a child, I have been passionate about tennis and I have continued to pursue it with only one dream in my heart: ‘I want to compete on the world stage.’ Reaching the ATP Tour, playing at the highest level of competition, and maintaining a presence in the Top 10 is something I am extremely proud of,” he posted to X. “Whether in victory or defeat, the special atmosphere I felt in packed arenas is irreplaceable.” Nishikori was the first Japanese man to be ranked in the top 10 in the world. He has won 12 titles, 451 tour matches and just over $26 million on the ATP Tour. It was March 2, 2015, when Nishikori was ranked No. 4 amid tennis’ brightest stars. That week, Novak Djokovic was No. 1, followed by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. After Nishikori, at No. 5, was Andy Murray. Those four opponents combined to win 69 Grand Slam titles. Nishikori never won one, with his best result coming in 2014 when he defeated Djokovic to reach the U.S. Open final, which he lost to Marin Cilic of Croatia. Nishikori has competed this season in ATP Challenger events. His most recent ATP Tour event came in 2025 at Cincinnati. “My love for tennis and my belief that I could become a stronger player always brought me back to the court. I feel that all of these experiences have enriched and shaped my life. I am deeply grateful [for] my family and to everyone who has supported me at all times,” Nishikori wrote. “To be honest, I still wish I could continue my playing career. Even so, looking back on everything up to this point, I can proudly say that I gave it my all. “I am truly happy to have walked this path. I will cherish every moment of the remaining matches and fight to the very end.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Japans #Kei #Nishikori #retiring #tennis #seasonAug 8, 2025; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Kei Nishikori (JPN) serves against Camilo Ugo Carabelli (ARG) during the Cincinnati Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images

Kei Nishikori, once ranked as high as No. 4 in the world, will retire from tennis at the end of the 2026 season.

The 36-year-old Japanese trailblazer made the announcement Thursday via social media.

“Since I was a child, I have been passionate about tennis and I have continued to pursue it with only one dream in my heart: ‘I want to compete on the world stage.’ Reaching the ATP Tour, playing at the highest level of competition, and maintaining a presence in the Top 10 is something I am extremely proud of,” he posted to X. “Whether in victory or defeat, the special atmosphere I felt in packed arenas is irreplaceable.”

Nishikori was the first Japanese man to be ranked in the top 10 in the world.

He has won 12 titles, 451 tour matches and just over $26 million on the ATP Tour.


It was March 2, 2015, when Nishikori was ranked No. 4 amid tennis’ brightest stars. That week, Novak Djokovic was No. 1, followed by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. After Nishikori, at No. 5, was Andy Murray.

Those four opponents combined to win 69 Grand Slam titles. Nishikori never won one, with his best result coming in 2014 when he defeated Djokovic to reach the U.S. Open final, which he lost to Marin Cilic of Croatia.

Nishikori has competed this season in ATP Challenger events. His most recent ATP Tour event came in 2025 at Cincinnati.

“My love for tennis and my belief that I could become a stronger player always brought me back to the court. I feel that all of these experiences have enriched and shaped my life. I am deeply grateful [for] my family and to everyone who has supported me at all times,” Nishikori wrote. “To be honest, I still wish I could continue my playing career. Even so, looking back on everything up to this point, I can proudly say that I gave it my all.

“I am truly happy to have walked this path. I will cherish every moment of the remaining matches and fight to the very end.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Japans #Kei #Nishikori #retiring #tennis #season">Deadspin | Japan’s Kei Nishikori retiring from tennis after 2026 season Aug 8, 2025; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Kei Nishikori (JPN) serves against Camilo Ugo Carabelli (ARG) during the Cincinnati Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images Kei Nishikori, once ranked as high as No. 4 in the world, will retire from tennis at the end of the 2026 season. The 36-year-old Japanese trailblazer made the announcement Thursday via social media. “Since I was a child, I have been passionate about tennis and I have continued to pursue it with only one dream in my heart: ‘I want to compete on the world stage.’ Reaching the ATP Tour, playing at the highest level of competition, and maintaining a presence in the Top 10 is something I am extremely proud of,” he posted to X. “Whether in victory or defeat, the special atmosphere I felt in packed arenas is irreplaceable.” Nishikori was the first Japanese man to be ranked in the top 10 in the world. He has won 12 titles, 451 tour matches and just over $26 million on the ATP Tour. It was March 2, 2015, when Nishikori was ranked No. 4 amid tennis’ brightest stars. That week, Novak Djokovic was No. 1, followed by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. After Nishikori, at No. 5, was Andy Murray. Those four opponents combined to win 69 Grand Slam titles. Nishikori never won one, with his best result coming in 2014 when he defeated Djokovic to reach the U.S. Open final, which he lost to Marin Cilic of Croatia. Nishikori has competed this season in ATP Challenger events. His most recent ATP Tour event came in 2025 at Cincinnati. “My love for tennis and my belief that I could become a stronger player always brought me back to the court. I feel that all of these experiences have enriched and shaped my life. I am deeply grateful [for] my family and to everyone who has supported me at all times,” Nishikori wrote. “To be honest, I still wish I could continue my playing career. Even so, looking back on everything up to this point, I can proudly say that I gave it my all. “I am truly happy to have walked this path. I will cherish every moment of the remaining matches and fight to the very end.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Japans #Kei #Nishikori #retiring #tennis #season

Friday May 1st MLB Betting Picks: Top Predictions for Today’s Games | Deadspin.com Apr 2, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals pitcher Cole Ragans (55) pitches during the first inning against the Minnesota Twins at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images May has arrived!Let’s hope that means unfettered nice weather here in the Northeast as my Wednesday pick got rained out. And how about we see that in the Midwest, too. Here are today’s MLB Picks.Season Record 15-12-1, +0.52 UnitsRoyals at MarinersWe have a matchup of two aces off to kind of bumpy starts representing two teams that are not exactly fast out of the gate.Cole Ragans has an ugly 5.00 ERA and 1.48 WHIP for the Kansas City Royals thus far, mostly thanks to his uncharacteristically high 15.7% BB%. He’s never been the greatest at avoiding the free pass, but that’s a huge bump from his 9.5% career level. There’s a bit of a mitigating circumstance here however as Ragans took a comebacker to the thumb in Cleveland on April 8 and tried to stay in the game but lost all command and had to leave in the first inning. He didn’t miss a start, but walked four and then eight (!) in his next two outings, so I have to wonder whether the thumb still impacted his delivery.No way to know, but in his last outing he was spectacular, striking out 11 vs. no walks in six innings vs. the Los Angeles Angels.Bryan Woo has overall better numbers with a 3.86 ERA and 1.06 WHIP. But it’s a bit of a dip from his 2.94 ERA 0.94 WHIP breakout last year. His K% has dipped from 27.1% to 19.1% and it’s hard to explain why. His velo is actually up a shade and his Stuff and Location scores remain similarly excellent. The St. Louis Cardinals torched Woo for four homers, nine hits and seven earned runs in just three innings in his last outing.One game does not make a trend, but these two could not enter the game on more divergent paths. Plus the Seattle Mariners have looked pretty lousy vs. lefties this season, slashing just .204/.291/.332 with an 81 wRC+. So give me the Royals here and we’ll stick with the F5 to make it mostly a play on the SP matchup.Royals F5 (+130 BetMGM) Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting Blue Jays at TwinsTwins F5 -0.5 (+116 FanDuel)OK, quite the difference here as we have two non-aces going; Patrick Corbin for the Toronto Blue Jays vs. Simeon Woods-Richardson for the Minnesota Twins. Corbin has looked a bit better on the surface, 3.72 ERA and 1.24 WHIP through four starts and 19.1 IP, vs. a 6.30 ERA and 1.70 WHIP for SWR. But at least one of the ERA estimators actually think SWR is a bit less bad, 4.80 xERA vs. 5.87 xERA for Corbin.One thing that’s almost a guarantee is that SWR will need his fielders to help him out as he has just an 11% K% and the Jays are the second toughest team for righties to strike out at 19.4% K%. I’m not expecting all that much from him, really just that he can keep up with Corbin, who’s really here to eat some innings for the Jays and keep the game within range. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting #Friday #1st #MLB #Betting #Picks #Top #Predictions #Todays #Games #Deadspin.comApr 2, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals pitcher Cole Ragans (55) pitches during the first inning against the Minnesota Twins at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

May has arrived!

Let’s hope that means unfettered nice weather here in the Northeast as my Wednesday pick got rained out. And how about we see that in the Midwest, too. Here are today’s MLB Picks.

Season Record 15-12-1, +0.52 Units

Royals at Mariners

We have a matchup of two aces off to kind of bumpy starts representing two teams that are not exactly fast out of the gate.

Cole Ragans has an ugly 5.00 ERA and 1.48 WHIP for the Kansas City Royals thus far, mostly thanks to his uncharacteristically high 15.7% BB%. He’s never been the greatest at avoiding the free pass, but that’s a huge bump from his 9.5% career level. There’s a bit of a mitigating circumstance here however as Ragans took a comebacker to the thumb in Cleveland on April 8 and tried to stay in the game but lost all command and had to leave in the first inning. He didn’t miss a start, but walked four and then eight (!) in his next two outings, so I have to wonder whether the thumb still impacted his delivery.

No way to know, but in his last outing he was spectacular, striking out 11 vs. no walks in six innings vs. the Los Angeles Angels.

Bryan Woo has overall better numbers with a 3.86 ERA and 1.06 WHIP. But it’s a bit of a dip from his 2.94 ERA 0.94 WHIP breakout last year. His K% has dipped from 27.1% to 19.1% and it’s hard to explain why. His velo is actually up a shade and his Stuff and Location scores remain similarly excellent. The St. Louis Cardinals torched Woo for four homers, nine hits and seven earned runs in just three innings in his last outing.

One game does not make a trend, but these two could not enter the game on more divergent paths. Plus the Seattle Mariners have looked pretty lousy vs. lefties this season, slashing just .204/.291/.332 with an 81 wRC+. So give me the Royals here and we’ll stick with the F5 to make it mostly a play on the SP matchup.

Royals F5 (+130 BetMGM)

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Blue Jays at Twins

Twins F5 -0.5 (+116 FanDuel)

OK, quite the difference here as we have two non-aces going; Patrick Corbin for the Toronto Blue Jays vs. Simeon Woods-Richardson for the Minnesota Twins. Corbin has looked a bit better on the surface, 3.72 ERA and 1.24 WHIP through four starts and 19.1 IP, vs. a 6.30 ERA and 1.70 WHIP for SWR. But at least one of the ERA estimators actually think SWR is a bit less bad, 4.80 xERA vs. 5.87 xERA for Corbin.

One thing that’s almost a guarantee is that SWR will need his fielders to help him out as he has just an 11% K% and the Jays are the second toughest team for righties to strike out at 19.4% K%. I’m not expecting all that much from him, really just that he can keep up with Corbin, who’s really here to eat some innings for the Jays and keep the game within range.

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#Friday #1st #MLB #Betting #Picks #Top #Predictions #Todays #Games #Deadspin.com">Friday May 1st MLB Betting Picks: Top Predictions for Today’s Games | Deadspin.com Apr 2, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals pitcher Cole Ragans (55) pitches during the first inning against the Minnesota Twins at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images May has arrived!Let’s hope that means unfettered nice weather here in the Northeast as my Wednesday pick got rained out. And how about we see that in the Midwest, too. Here are today’s MLB Picks.Season Record 15-12-1, +0.52 UnitsRoyals at MarinersWe have a matchup of two aces off to kind of bumpy starts representing two teams that are not exactly fast out of the gate.Cole Ragans has an ugly 5.00 ERA and 1.48 WHIP for the Kansas City Royals thus far, mostly thanks to his uncharacteristically high 15.7% BB%. He’s never been the greatest at avoiding the free pass, but that’s a huge bump from his 9.5% career level. There’s a bit of a mitigating circumstance here however as Ragans took a comebacker to the thumb in Cleveland on April 8 and tried to stay in the game but lost all command and had to leave in the first inning. He didn’t miss a start, but walked four and then eight (!) in his next two outings, so I have to wonder whether the thumb still impacted his delivery.No way to know, but in his last outing he was spectacular, striking out 11 vs. no walks in six innings vs. the Los Angeles Angels.Bryan Woo has overall better numbers with a 3.86 ERA and 1.06 WHIP. But it’s a bit of a dip from his 2.94 ERA 0.94 WHIP breakout last year. His K% has dipped from 27.1% to 19.1% and it’s hard to explain why. His velo is actually up a shade and his Stuff and Location scores remain similarly excellent. The St. Louis Cardinals torched Woo for four homers, nine hits and seven earned runs in just three innings in his last outing.One game does not make a trend, but these two could not enter the game on more divergent paths. Plus the Seattle Mariners have looked pretty lousy vs. lefties this season, slashing just .204/.291/.332 with an 81 wRC+. So give me the Royals here and we’ll stick with the F5 to make it mostly a play on the SP matchup.Royals F5 (+130 BetMGM) Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting Blue Jays at TwinsTwins F5 -0.5 (+116 FanDuel)OK, quite the difference here as we have two non-aces going; Patrick Corbin for the Toronto Blue Jays vs. Simeon Woods-Richardson for the Minnesota Twins. Corbin has looked a bit better on the surface, 3.72 ERA and 1.24 WHIP through four starts and 19.1 IP, vs. a 6.30 ERA and 1.70 WHIP for SWR. But at least one of the ERA estimators actually think SWR is a bit less bad, 4.80 xERA vs. 5.87 xERA for Corbin.One thing that’s almost a guarantee is that SWR will need his fielders to help him out as he has just an 11% K% and the Jays are the second toughest team for righties to strike out at 19.4% K%. I’m not expecting all that much from him, really just that he can keep up with Corbin, who’s really here to eat some innings for the Jays and keep the game within range. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting #Friday #1st #MLB #Betting #Picks #Top #Predictions #Todays #Games #Deadspin.com

my Wednesday pick got rained out. And how about we see that in the Midwest, too. Here are today’s MLB Picks.

Season Record 15-12-1, +0.52 Units

Royals at Mariners

We have a matchup of two aces off to kind of bumpy starts representing two teams that are not exactly fast out of the gate.

Cole Ragans has an ugly 5.00 ERA and 1.48 WHIP for the Kansas City Royals thus far, mostly thanks to his uncharacteristically high 15.7% BB%. He’s never been the greatest at avoiding the free pass, but that’s a huge bump from his 9.5% career level. There’s a bit of a mitigating circumstance here however as Ragans took a comebacker to the thumb in Cleveland on April 8 and tried to stay in the game but lost all command and had to leave in the first inning. He didn’t miss a start, but walked four and then eight (!) in his next two outings, so I have to wonder whether the thumb still impacted his delivery.

No way to know, but in his last outing he was spectacular, striking out 11 vs. no walks in six innings vs. the Los Angeles Angels.

Bryan Woo has overall better numbers with a 3.86 ERA and 1.06 WHIP. But it’s a bit of a dip from his 2.94 ERA 0.94 WHIP breakout last year. His K% has dipped from 27.1% to 19.1% and it’s hard to explain why. His velo is actually up a shade and his Stuff and Location scores remain similarly excellent. The St. Louis Cardinals torched Woo for four homers, nine hits and seven earned runs in just three innings in his last outing.

One game does not make a trend, but these two could not enter the game on more divergent paths. Plus the Seattle Mariners have looked pretty lousy vs. lefties this season, slashing just .204/.291/.332 with an 81 wRC+. So give me the Royals here and we’ll stick with the F5 to make it mostly a play on the SP matchup.

Royals F5 (+130 BetMGM)

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Channel debug: betting

Blue Jays at Twins

Twins F5 -0.5 (+116 FanDuel)

OK, quite the difference here as we have two non-aces going; Patrick Corbin for the Toronto Blue Jays vs. Simeon Woods-Richardson for the Minnesota Twins. Corbin has looked a bit better on the surface, 3.72 ERA and 1.24 WHIP through four starts and 19.1 IP, vs. a 6.30 ERA and 1.70 WHIP for SWR. But at least one of the ERA estimators actually think SWR is a bit less bad, 4.80 xERA vs. 5.87 xERA for Corbin.

One thing that’s almost a guarantee is that SWR will need his fielders to help him out as he has just an 11% K% and the Jays are the second toughest team for righties to strike out at 19.4% K%. I’m not expecting all that much from him, really just that he can keep up with Corbin, who’s really here to eat some innings for the Jays and keep the game within range.

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Channel debug: betting

#Friday #1st #MLB #Betting #Picks #Top #Predictions #Todays #Games #Deadspin.com">Friday May 1st MLB Betting Picks: Top Predictions for Today’s Games | Deadspin.com
Friday May 1st MLB Betting Picks: Top Predictions for Today’s Games | Deadspin.com Apr 2, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals pitcher Cole Ragans (55) pitches during the first inning against the Minnesota Twins at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images May has arrived!Let’s hope that means unfettered nice weather here in the Northeast as my Wednesday pick got rained out. And how about we see that in the Midwest, too. Here are today’s MLB Picks.Season Record 15-12-1, +0.52 UnitsRoyals at MarinersWe have a matchup of two aces off to kind of bumpy starts representing two teams that are not exactly fast out of the gate.Cole Ragans has an ugly 5.00 ERA and 1.48 WHIP for the Kansas City Royals thus far, mostly thanks to his uncharacteristically high 15.7% BB%. He’s never been the greatest at avoiding the free pass, but that’s a huge bump from his 9.5% career level. There’s a bit of a mitigating circumstance here however as Ragans took a comebacker to the thumb in Cleveland on April 8 and tried to stay in the game but lost all command and had to leave in the first inning. He didn’t miss a start, but walked four and then eight (!) in his next two outings, so I have to wonder whether the thumb still impacted his delivery.No way to know, but in his last outing he was spectacular, striking out 11 vs. no walks in six innings vs. the Los Angeles Angels.Bryan Woo has overall better numbers with a 3.86 ERA and 1.06 WHIP. But it’s a bit of a dip from his 2.94 ERA 0.94 WHIP breakout last year. His K% has dipped from 27.1% to 19.1% and it’s hard to explain why. His velo is actually up a shade and his Stuff and Location scores remain similarly excellent. The St. Louis Cardinals torched Woo for four homers, nine hits and seven earned runs in just three innings in his last outing.One game does not make a trend, but these two could not enter the game on more divergent paths. Plus the Seattle Mariners have looked pretty lousy vs. lefties this season, slashing just .204/.291/.332 with an 81 wRC+. So give me the Royals here and we’ll stick with the F5 to make it mostly a play on the SP matchup.Royals F5 (+130 BetMGM) Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting Blue Jays at TwinsTwins F5 -0.5 (+116 FanDuel)OK, quite the difference here as we have two non-aces going; Patrick Corbin for the Toronto Blue Jays vs. Simeon Woods-Richardson for the Minnesota Twins. Corbin has looked a bit better on the surface, 3.72 ERA and 1.24 WHIP through four starts and 19.1 IP, vs. a 6.30 ERA and 1.70 WHIP for SWR. But at least one of the ERA estimators actually think SWR is a bit less bad, 4.80 xERA vs. 5.87 xERA for Corbin.One thing that’s almost a guarantee is that SWR will need his fielders to help him out as he has just an 11% K% and the Jays are the second toughest team for righties to strike out at 19.4% K%. I’m not expecting all that much from him, really just that he can keep up with Corbin, who’s really here to eat some innings for the Jays and keep the game within range. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting #Friday #1st #MLB #Betting #Picks #Top #Predictions #Todays #Games #Deadspin.comApr 2, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals pitcher Cole Ragans (55) pitches during the first inning against the Minnesota Twins at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

May has arrived!

Let’s hope that means unfettered nice weather here in the Northeast as my Wednesday pick got rained out. And how about we see that in the Midwest, too. Here are today’s MLB Picks.

Season Record 15-12-1, +0.52 Units

Royals at Mariners

We have a matchup of two aces off to kind of bumpy starts representing two teams that are not exactly fast out of the gate.

Cole Ragans has an ugly 5.00 ERA and 1.48 WHIP for the Kansas City Royals thus far, mostly thanks to his uncharacteristically high 15.7% BB%. He’s never been the greatest at avoiding the free pass, but that’s a huge bump from his 9.5% career level. There’s a bit of a mitigating circumstance here however as Ragans took a comebacker to the thumb in Cleveland on April 8 and tried to stay in the game but lost all command and had to leave in the first inning. He didn’t miss a start, but walked four and then eight (!) in his next two outings, so I have to wonder whether the thumb still impacted his delivery.

No way to know, but in his last outing he was spectacular, striking out 11 vs. no walks in six innings vs. the Los Angeles Angels.

Bryan Woo has overall better numbers with a 3.86 ERA and 1.06 WHIP. But it’s a bit of a dip from his 2.94 ERA 0.94 WHIP breakout last year. His K% has dipped from 27.1% to 19.1% and it’s hard to explain why. His velo is actually up a shade and his Stuff and Location scores remain similarly excellent. The St. Louis Cardinals torched Woo for four homers, nine hits and seven earned runs in just three innings in his last outing.

One game does not make a trend, but these two could not enter the game on more divergent paths. Plus the Seattle Mariners have looked pretty lousy vs. lefties this season, slashing just .204/.291/.332 with an 81 wRC+. So give me the Royals here and we’ll stick with the F5 to make it mostly a play on the SP matchup.

Royals F5 (+130 BetMGM)

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Channel debug: betting

Blue Jays at Twins

Twins F5 -0.5 (+116 FanDuel)

OK, quite the difference here as we have two non-aces going; Patrick Corbin for the Toronto Blue Jays vs. Simeon Woods-Richardson for the Minnesota Twins. Corbin has looked a bit better on the surface, 3.72 ERA and 1.24 WHIP through four starts and 19.1 IP, vs. a 6.30 ERA and 1.70 WHIP for SWR. But at least one of the ERA estimators actually think SWR is a bit less bad, 4.80 xERA vs. 5.87 xERA for Corbin.

One thing that’s almost a guarantee is that SWR will need his fielders to help him out as he has just an 11% K% and the Jays are the second toughest team for righties to strike out at 19.4% K%. I’m not expecting all that much from him, really just that he can keep up with Corbin, who’s really here to eat some innings for the Jays and keep the game within range.

Our Current Best Offers

Channel debug: betting

#Friday #1st #MLB #Betting #Picks #Top #Predictions #Todays #Games #Deadspin.com

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