Deadspin | Lakers without LeBron James, Luka Doncic vs. Celtics

Deadspin | Lakers without LeBron James, Luka Doncic vs. Celtics

Sports news

Dec 4, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts after a win over the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Already down Luka Doncic, the Los Angeles Lakers visit the Boston Celtics on Friday night without LeBron James.

The Lakers ruled James out with sciatica, the same issue that has limited him to just six of the team’s 21 games this season. He also is dealing with a left foot injury.

Doncic is in Slovenia for the birth of his second child. Lakers guard Marcus Smart, who began his career in Boston, was also ruled out because of a left lumbar muscle strain.

Los Angeles earned a 123-120 road win over the Toronto Raptors on Thursday when James assisted on Rui Hachimura’s 3-pointer at the buzzer.

James scored eight points in the game, the first time since 2007 that he didn’t score at least 10, ending a streak of 1,297 games in which he reached double figures. He shot 4 of 17 from the field and missed each of his five 3-point attempts.

James expressed no regrets about deciding to pass at the end rather than shoot in an attempt to win the game and extend the streak. In the end, Hachimura was the hero even over teammate Austin Reaves, who logged 44 points, 10 rebounds and five assists.

“Just playing the game the right way,” James said. “You always make the right play. That’s just been my M.O. That’s how I was taught the game. I’ve done that my whole career. …

“Once they doubled (Reaves) and the ball got swung to me, I knew it was a numbers game. We had a 4-on-3 advantage, and I was just trying to put the ball on time on target.”

–Field Level Media

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

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

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

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

Las Vegas Raiders

The Pick: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

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

New York Giants

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

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

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

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Pick: DE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami

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

Seattle Seahawks

The Pick: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame

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

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

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

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

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

New York Giants

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

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

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

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Pick: DE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami

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

Seattle Seahawks

The Pick: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Las Vegas Raiders

The Pick: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

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

New York Giants

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

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

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

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Pick: DE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami

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

Seattle Seahawks

The Pick: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Published on Apr 25, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


–Field Level Media

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

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