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Can’t wait to play Carlos Alcaraz in my hometown: Valentin Vacherot Monaco’s Valentin Vacherot said he was relishing the chance to take on ​world number one Carlos Alcaraz in front of ‌friends and family after his fairytale run at ​the Monte Carlo Masters took him ⁠into the semifinals on home soil.Vacherot, who was ranked outside the top 200 before his shock Shanghai Masters triumph ‌last year, downed Alex de Minaur 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 in front of roaring ‌fans on Friday and became the first ‌Monegasque ⁠player to reach the last four at Monte ⁠Carlo.World number two Jannik Sinner, who has the opportunity to reclaim top spot from Alcaraz, meets the third-ranked Alexander Zverev ​in the other semifinal.“It’s ‌such an honour to be part of the semifinals with the three best players of the past few years,” Vacherot said shortly after ‌his win in Monte Carlo on Friday.“I can’t ​wait to play Carlos in my hometown; it’s amazing.READ: Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers — Italy, Ukraine begin campaign on a winning note“The guys in the crowd ⁠chanting, they’re my best friends from when I was nine or 10 years old. It’s rare for ‌a player to have this chance to have these many people around.“I’m so lucky to have a tournament in my club.”Vacherot is projected to break into the top 20 when the ATP rankings are updated on Monday. Alcaraz was left ‌impressed by the 27-year-old’s rise.“It’s impressive, his story. He ​has a lot of motivation playing at home,” Alcaraz said shortly before Vacherot set ⁠up their last-four clash, which takes place later on ⁠Saturday.“He has won great matches this tournament this year. I’ve never played against him ‌before; I just practiced with him once at Indian Wells. I know he’s a pretty ​tough opponent to play.”Published on Apr 11, 2026 #wait #play #Carlos #Alcaraz #hometown #Valentin #Vacherot

Can’t wait to play Carlos Alcaraz in my hometown: Valentin Vacherot

Monaco’s Valentin Vacherot said he was relishing the chance to take on ​world number one Carlos Alcaraz in front of ‌friends and family after his fairytale run at ​the Monte Carlo Masters took him ⁠into the semifinals on home soil.

Vacherot, who was ranked outside the top 200 before his shock Shanghai Masters triumph ‌last year, downed Alex de Minaur 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 in front of roaring ‌fans on Friday and became the first ‌Monegasque ⁠player to reach the last four at Monte ⁠Carlo.

World number two Jannik Sinner, who has the opportunity to reclaim top spot from Alcaraz, meets the third-ranked Alexander Zverev ​in the other semifinal.

“It’s ‌such an honour to be part of the semifinals with the three best players of the past few years,” Vacherot said shortly after ‌his win in Monte Carlo on Friday.

“I can’t ​wait to play Carlos in my hometown; it’s amazing.

READ: Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers — Italy, Ukraine begin campaign on a winning note

“The guys in the crowd ⁠chanting, they’re my best friends from when I was nine or 10 years old. It’s rare for ‌a player to have this chance to have these many people around.

“I’m so lucky to have a tournament in my club.”

Vacherot is projected to break into the top 20 when the ATP rankings are updated on Monday. Alcaraz was left ‌impressed by the 27-year-old’s rise.

“It’s impressive, his story. He ​has a lot of motivation playing at home,” Alcaraz said shortly before Vacherot set ⁠up their last-four clash, which takes place later on ⁠Saturday.

“He has won great matches this tournament this year. I’ve never played against him ‌before; I just practiced with him once at Indian Wells. I know he’s a pretty ​tough opponent to play.”

Published on Apr 11, 2026

#wait #play #Carlos #Alcaraz #hometown #Valentin #Vacherot

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Monaco’s Valentin Vacherot said he was relishing the chance to take on ​world number one Carlos Alcaraz in front of ‌friends and family after his fairytale run at ​the Monte Carlo Masters took him ⁠into the semifinals on home soil.

Vacherot, who was ranked outside the top 200 before his shock Shanghai Masters triumph ‌last year, downed Alex de Minaur 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 in front of roaring ‌fans on Friday and became the first ‌Monegasque ⁠player to reach the last four at Monte ⁠Carlo.

World number two Jannik Sinner, who has the opportunity to reclaim top spot from Alcaraz, meets the third-ranked Alexander Zverev ​in the other semifinal.

“It’s ‌such an honour to be part of the semifinals with the three best players of the past few years,” Vacherot said shortly after ‌his win in Monte Carlo on Friday.

“I can’t ​wait to play Carlos in my hometown; it’s amazing.

READ: Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers — Italy, Ukraine begin campaign on a winning note

“The guys in the crowd ⁠chanting, they’re my best friends from when I was nine or 10 years old. It’s rare for ‌a player to have this chance to have these many people around.

“I’m so lucky to have a tournament in my club.”

Vacherot is projected to break into the top 20 when the ATP rankings are updated on Monday. Alcaraz was left ‌impressed by the 27-year-old’s rise.

“It’s impressive, his story. He ​has a lot of motivation playing at home,” Alcaraz said shortly before Vacherot set ⁠up their last-four clash, which takes place later on ⁠Saturday.

“He has won great matches this tournament this year. I’ve never played against him ‌before; I just practiced with him once at Indian Wells. I know he’s a pretty ​tough opponent to play.”

Published on Apr 11, 2026

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Deadspin | Keider Montero, Tigers blank Marlins with 2-hitter <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-900/28702767.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28702767.jpg" alt="MLB: Miami Marlins at Detroit Tigers" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 10, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Keider Montero (54) throws a pitch against the Miami Marlins in the first inning at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Keider Montero tossed six strong innings and three relievers completed the shutout as the host Detroit Tigers snapped a five-game losing streak by blanking the Miami Marlins 2-0 on Friday.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Montero (1-1), who was called up from Triple-A Toledo last weekend, allowed just two hits and a walk while recording seven strikeouts. Brant Hurter, Kyle Finnegan and Kenley Jansen each tossed an inning of relief to cap a two-hitter.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Jansen recorded his second save of the season and the 478th of his career, tying him with Lee Smith for third place on the all-time list.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Javier Baez homered, Spencer Torkelson drove in the other run with a single and Colt Keith had two hits for the Tigers.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Marlins starter Chris Paddack (0-2), who spent part of last season with the Tigers, gave up two runs and seven hits in six innings. He fanned four and walked one. Lake Bachar struck out three in two scoreless innings of relief for the Marlins, who had a two-game winning streak end.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Miami’s Xavier Edwards hit a one-out triple in the first. He was left stranded as Montero retired the next two batters on a strikeout and flyout.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-7"> <p>Kevin McGonigle led off the bottom of the inning with a single and advanced on a wild pitch and groundout. Riley Greene grounded out to end the inning.</p> </section> <section id="section-8"> <p>Consecutive singles by Dillon Dingler, Kerry Carpenter and Torkelson in the second produced the first run. The Tigers had the bases loaded with two out later in the inning, but right fielder Owen Caissie made a sliding grab of Gleyber Torres’ line drive to keep the score at 1-0.</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>Miami’s Connor Norby hit a one-out double in the fifth. Montero set down the next two batters with a flyout and strikeout.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>Detroit extended its lead in the bottom of the inning. Baez, leading off, reached out for a sweeper and pulled it over the left field wall for his first homer of the season.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>Greene had a two-out single in the eighth and Dingler got aboard due to catcher’s interference, but Carpenter struck out to leave them stranded.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>In the ninth, Jansen struck out Jakob Marsee before Edwards and Agustin Ramirez flied out to end the game.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Keider #Montero #Tigers #blank #Marlins #2hitter

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World Athletics president Sebastian Coe told AFP that the International Olympic Committee’s decision in March to introduce testing for gender to determine eligibility to compete in the female category, preventing transgender women from competing, is a “very important development for the Olympic movement”.

The screening will mean Olympic women’s sports from the 2028 Los Angeles Games will be limited to biological females, which would also rule out those with differences in sexual development (DSD).

WA had already announced last July it was introducing the SRY gene test.

“You know, I didn’t come into World Athletics for a popularity contest, I came in to do what I think is the right thing,” said Coe ahead of the World Athletics Relays being hosted in Gaborone, Botswana.

“I’m delighted that the world is beginning to see it the way we did, but I think it’s a very important development for the Olympic movement, and I celebrate that,” he added.

The announcement by the IOC of the reintroduction of the testing for the SRY gene did not meet with universal approval, with French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari saying it was “a step backwards”.

ALSO READ | Olympic bronze medallist Alysha Newman suspended for missing doping tests

Andrew Sinclair, the scientist who discovered the gene, had said even ahead of the decision, the idea that biological sex is entirely defined by chromosomes is “overly simplistic”.

IOC president Kirsty Coventry, who succeeded Thomas Bach last year, had made resolving the thorny issue a priority after the 2024 Paris Games were rocked by a gender row involving women boxers Imane Khelif of Algeria and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting.

Khelif and Lin were excluded from the International Boxing Association’s 2023 world championships after the IBA said they had failed eligibility tests.

However, the IOC allowed them both to compete at the Paris Games, saying they had been victims of “a sudden and arbitrary decision by the IBA”.

Both boxers went on to win gold medals. Coe praised Coventry for taking the bull by the horns and coming up with a blanket policy to cover all Olympic sports.

“I’m delighted that the new president, Kirsty, has really, in her first few months as president, gone out of her way to protect the female category,” said the 69-year-old Englishman.

“If you don’t, then you don’t have women’s sport, and Kirsty, of all people, is going to protect women’s sport, so we are 100 per cent behind that position at World Athletics, it’s a position we took many years ago,” he added.

Published on May 01, 2026

#World #Athletics #president #Sebastian #Coe #hails #IOC #gender #testing #decision">World Athletics president Sebastian Coe hails IOC gender testing decision World Athletics president Sebastian Coe told AFP that the International Olympic Committee’s decision in March to introduce testing for gender to determine eligibility to compete in the female category, preventing transgender women from competing, is a “very important development for the Olympic movement”.The screening will mean Olympic women’s sports from the 2028 Los Angeles Games will be limited to biological females, which would also rule out those with differences in sexual development (DSD).WA had already announced last July it was introducing the SRY gene test.“You know, I didn’t come into World Athletics for a popularity contest, I came in to do what I think is the right thing,” said Coe ahead of the World Athletics Relays being hosted in Gaborone, Botswana.“I’m delighted that the world is beginning to see it the way we did, but I think it’s a very important development for the Olympic movement, and I celebrate that,” he added.The announcement by the IOC of the reintroduction of the testing for the SRY gene did not meet with universal approval, with French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari saying it was “a step backwards”.ALSO READ | Olympic bronze medallist Alysha Newman suspended for missing doping testsAndrew Sinclair, the scientist who discovered the gene, had said even ahead of the decision, the idea that biological sex is entirely defined by chromosomes is “overly simplistic”.IOC president Kirsty Coventry, who succeeded Thomas Bach last year, had made resolving the thorny issue a priority after the 2024 Paris Games were rocked by a gender row involving women boxers Imane Khelif of Algeria and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting.Khelif and Lin were excluded from the International Boxing Association’s 2023 world championships after the IBA said they had failed eligibility tests.However, the IOC allowed them both to compete at the Paris Games, saying they had been victims of “a sudden and arbitrary decision by the IBA”.Both boxers went on to win gold medals. Coe praised Coventry for taking the bull by the horns and coming up with a blanket policy to cover all Olympic sports.“I’m delighted that the new president, Kirsty, has really, in her first few months as president, gone out of her way to protect the female category,” said the 69-year-old Englishman.“If you don’t, then you don’t have women’s sport, and Kirsty, of all people, is going to protect women’s sport, so we are 100 per cent behind that position at World Athletics, it’s a position we took many years ago,” he added.Published on May 01, 2026 #World #Athletics #president #Sebastian #Coe #hails #IOC #gender #testing #decision

Olympic bronze medallist Alysha Newman suspended for missing doping tests

Andrew Sinclair, the scientist who discovered the gene, had said even ahead of the decision, the idea that biological sex is entirely defined by chromosomes is “overly simplistic”.

IOC president Kirsty Coventry, who succeeded Thomas Bach last year, had made resolving the thorny issue a priority after the 2024 Paris Games were rocked by a gender row involving women boxers Imane Khelif of Algeria and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting.

Khelif and Lin were excluded from the International Boxing Association’s 2023 world championships after the IBA said they had failed eligibility tests.

However, the IOC allowed them both to compete at the Paris Games, saying they had been victims of “a sudden and arbitrary decision by the IBA”.

Both boxers went on to win gold medals. Coe praised Coventry for taking the bull by the horns and coming up with a blanket policy to cover all Olympic sports.

“I’m delighted that the new president, Kirsty, has really, in her first few months as president, gone out of her way to protect the female category,” said the 69-year-old Englishman.

“If you don’t, then you don’t have women’s sport, and Kirsty, of all people, is going to protect women’s sport, so we are 100 per cent behind that position at World Athletics, it’s a position we took many years ago,” he added.

Published on May 01, 2026

#World #Athletics #president #Sebastian #Coe #hails #IOC #gender #testing #decision">World Athletics president Sebastian Coe hails IOC gender testing decision

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe told AFP that the International Olympic Committee’s decision in March to introduce testing for gender to determine eligibility to compete in the female category, preventing transgender women from competing, is a “very important development for the Olympic movement”.

The screening will mean Olympic women’s sports from the 2028 Los Angeles Games will be limited to biological females, which would also rule out those with differences in sexual development (DSD).

WA had already announced last July it was introducing the SRY gene test.

“You know, I didn’t come into World Athletics for a popularity contest, I came in to do what I think is the right thing,” said Coe ahead of the World Athletics Relays being hosted in Gaborone, Botswana.

“I’m delighted that the world is beginning to see it the way we did, but I think it’s a very important development for the Olympic movement, and I celebrate that,” he added.

The announcement by the IOC of the reintroduction of the testing for the SRY gene did not meet with universal approval, with French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari saying it was “a step backwards”.

ALSO READ | Olympic bronze medallist Alysha Newman suspended for missing doping tests

Andrew Sinclair, the scientist who discovered the gene, had said even ahead of the decision, the idea that biological sex is entirely defined by chromosomes is “overly simplistic”.

IOC president Kirsty Coventry, who succeeded Thomas Bach last year, had made resolving the thorny issue a priority after the 2024 Paris Games were rocked by a gender row involving women boxers Imane Khelif of Algeria and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting.

Khelif and Lin were excluded from the International Boxing Association’s 2023 world championships after the IBA said they had failed eligibility tests.

However, the IOC allowed them both to compete at the Paris Games, saying they had been victims of “a sudden and arbitrary decision by the IBA”.

Both boxers went on to win gold medals. Coe praised Coventry for taking the bull by the horns and coming up with a blanket policy to cover all Olympic sports.

“I’m delighted that the new president, Kirsty, has really, in her first few months as president, gone out of her way to protect the female category,” said the 69-year-old Englishman.

“If you don’t, then you don’t have women’s sport, and Kirsty, of all people, is going to protect women’s sport, so we are 100 per cent behind that position at World Athletics, it’s a position we took many years ago,” he added.

Published on May 01, 2026

#World #Athletics #president #Sebastian #Coe #hails #IOC #gender #testing #decision
Top MLB Surprises So Far: Hitters and Pitchers Exceeding Expectations | Deadspin.com Feb 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Dalton Rushing against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images It’s officially May, which means it’s tougher to use the small sample size explanation for players who have gotten off to surprisingly fast starts. Here’s our lineup and pitching staff comprised of pleasant surprises.C: Dalton Rushing, Los Angeles DodgersAs a former second-round pick of the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona DiamondbacksVargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team. 2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore OriolesJackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.3B: Amed Rosario, New York YankeesRyan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta BravesWith two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles) Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta BravesSmith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season. Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay RaysBaker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default. #Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.comFeb 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Dalton Rushing against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

It’s officially May, which means it’s tougher to use the small sample size explanation for players who have gotten off to surprisingly fast starts. 

Here’s our lineup and pitching staff comprised of pleasant surprises.

C: Dalton Rushing, Los Angeles Dodgers

As a former second-round pick of the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.

1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona Diamondbacks

Vargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team.

2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore Orioles

Jackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.

3B: Amed Rosario, New York Yankees

Ryan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.

SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta Braves

With two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.

OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles)


Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn ImagesApr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.

DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta Braves

Smith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season.

Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)

These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.

Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay Rays

Baker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default.

#Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.com">Top MLB Surprises So Far: Hitters and Pitchers Exceeding Expectations | Deadspin.com Feb 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Dalton Rushing against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images It’s officially May, which means it’s tougher to use the small sample size explanation for players who have gotten off to surprisingly fast starts. Here’s our lineup and pitching staff comprised of pleasant surprises.C: Dalton Rushing, Los Angeles DodgersAs a former second-round pick of the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona DiamondbacksVargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team. 2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore OriolesJackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.3B: Amed Rosario, New York YankeesRyan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta BravesWith two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles) Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta BravesSmith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season. Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay RaysBaker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default. #Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.com

the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.

1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona Diamondbacks

Vargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team.

2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore Orioles

Jackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.

3B: Amed Rosario, New York Yankees

Ryan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.

SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta Braves

With two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.

OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles)


Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn ImagesApr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.

DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta Braves

Smith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season.

Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)

These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.

Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay Rays

Baker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default.

#Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.com">Top MLB Surprises So Far: Hitters and Pitchers Exceeding Expectations | Deadspin.com
Top MLB Surprises So Far: Hitters and Pitchers Exceeding Expectations | Deadspin.com Feb 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Dalton Rushing against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images It’s officially May, which means it’s tougher to use the small sample size explanation for players who have gotten off to surprisingly fast starts. Here’s our lineup and pitching staff comprised of pleasant surprises.C: Dalton Rushing, Los Angeles DodgersAs a former second-round pick of the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona DiamondbacksVargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team. 2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore OriolesJackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.3B: Amed Rosario, New York YankeesRyan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta BravesWith two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles) Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta BravesSmith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season. Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay RaysBaker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default. #Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.comFeb 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Dalton Rushing against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

It’s officially May, which means it’s tougher to use the small sample size explanation for players who have gotten off to surprisingly fast starts. 

Here’s our lineup and pitching staff comprised of pleasant surprises.

C: Dalton Rushing, Los Angeles Dodgers

As a former second-round pick of the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.

1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona Diamondbacks

Vargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team.

2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore Orioles

Jackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.

3B: Amed Rosario, New York Yankees

Ryan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.

SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta Braves

With two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.

OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles)


Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn ImagesApr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.

DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta Braves

Smith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season.

Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)

These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.

Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay Rays

Baker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default.

#Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.com

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner beat Arthur Fils 6-2, 6-4 to reach the Madrid Open final on Friday.

The Italian won his 22nd straight match to book a place in Sunday’s final, where he will aim to win a record fifth consecutive Masters 1000 title.

With his chief rival Carlos Alcaraz out injured, Sinner is the firm favourite to triumph at the Caja Magica and add to his recent titles at Indian Wells, Miami and Monte-Carlo.

The 24-year-old will face second seed Alexander Zverev or promising Belgian Alexander Blockx in the final.

Beating Sinner right now seems a near-impossible task, and the four-time Grand Slam champion started superbly against Barcelona Open winner Fils, who has impressed since returning from injury in February.

The Italian broke in the third game when Fils went long to lead 2-1.

Sinner broke again in the fifth game, with Fils, ranked 25th in the world, unable to cope with his power from the baseline.

ALSO READ: Japan’s Nishikori, who reached 2014 US Open final, to retire at end of season

The Frenchman has not yet reached a Masters 1000 final and, with Sinner in excellent form, it quickly became clear he would have to wait a little longer.

Sinner wrapped up the first set on serve after Fils found some resistance to prevent a third break.

The second set was far closer, with Fils growing in confidence.

The 21-year-old saved two break points to take a 3-2 lead and then put pressure on Sinner’s next service game, although the Italian produced two aces to hold.

Sinner broke with a down-the-line backhand winner at the end of an excellent rally to take a 5-4 lead, before serving out the match.

Published on May 01, 2026

#Sinner #reaches #Madrid #Open #final #straightsets #win #Arthur #Fils">Sinner reaches Madrid Open final with straight-sets win over Arthur Fils World No. 1 Jannik Sinner beat Arthur Fils 6-2, 6-4 to reach the Madrid Open final on Friday.The Italian won his 22nd straight match to book a place in Sunday’s final, where he will aim to win a record fifth consecutive Masters 1000 title.With his chief rival Carlos Alcaraz out injured, Sinner is the firm favourite to triumph at the Caja Magica and add to his recent titles at Indian Wells, Miami and Monte-Carlo.The 24-year-old will face second seed Alexander Zverev or promising Belgian Alexander Blockx in the final.Beating Sinner right now seems a near-impossible task, and the four-time Grand Slam champion started superbly against Barcelona Open winner Fils, who has impressed since returning from injury in February.The Italian broke in the third game when Fils went long to lead 2-1.Sinner broke again in the fifth game, with Fils, ranked 25th in the world, unable to cope with his power from the baseline.ALSO READ: Japan’s Nishikori, who reached 2014 US Open final, to retire at end of seasonThe Frenchman has not yet reached a Masters 1000 final and, with Sinner in excellent form, it quickly became clear he would have to wait a little longer.Sinner wrapped up the first set on serve after Fils found some resistance to prevent a third break.The second set was far closer, with Fils growing in confidence.The 21-year-old saved two break points to take a 3-2 lead and then put pressure on Sinner’s next service game, although the Italian produced two aces to hold.Sinner broke with a down-the-line backhand winner at the end of an excellent rally to take a 5-4 lead, before serving out the match.Published on May 01, 2026 #Sinner #reaches #Madrid #Open #final #straightsets #win #Arthur #Fils

Japan’s Nishikori, who reached 2014 US Open final, to retire at end of season

The Frenchman has not yet reached a Masters 1000 final and, with Sinner in excellent form, it quickly became clear he would have to wait a little longer.

Sinner wrapped up the first set on serve after Fils found some resistance to prevent a third break.

The second set was far closer, with Fils growing in confidence.

The 21-year-old saved two break points to take a 3-2 lead and then put pressure on Sinner’s next service game, although the Italian produced two aces to hold.

Sinner broke with a down-the-line backhand winner at the end of an excellent rally to take a 5-4 lead, before serving out the match.

Published on May 01, 2026

#Sinner #reaches #Madrid #Open #final #straightsets #win #Arthur #Fils">Sinner reaches Madrid Open final with straight-sets win over Arthur Fils

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner beat Arthur Fils 6-2, 6-4 to reach the Madrid Open final on Friday.

The Italian won his 22nd straight match to book a place in Sunday’s final, where he will aim to win a record fifth consecutive Masters 1000 title.

With his chief rival Carlos Alcaraz out injured, Sinner is the firm favourite to triumph at the Caja Magica and add to his recent titles at Indian Wells, Miami and Monte-Carlo.

The 24-year-old will face second seed Alexander Zverev or promising Belgian Alexander Blockx in the final.

Beating Sinner right now seems a near-impossible task, and the four-time Grand Slam champion started superbly against Barcelona Open winner Fils, who has impressed since returning from injury in February.

The Italian broke in the third game when Fils went long to lead 2-1.

Sinner broke again in the fifth game, with Fils, ranked 25th in the world, unable to cope with his power from the baseline.

ALSO READ: Japan’s Nishikori, who reached 2014 US Open final, to retire at end of season

The Frenchman has not yet reached a Masters 1000 final and, with Sinner in excellent form, it quickly became clear he would have to wait a little longer.

Sinner wrapped up the first set on serve after Fils found some resistance to prevent a third break.

The second set was far closer, with Fils growing in confidence.

The 21-year-old saved two break points to take a 3-2 lead and then put pressure on Sinner’s next service game, although the Italian produced two aces to hold.

Sinner broke with a down-the-line backhand winner at the end of an excellent rally to take a 5-4 lead, before serving out the match.

Published on May 01, 2026

#Sinner #reaches #Madrid #Open #final #straightsets #win #Arthur #Fils

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