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Sports news

today is the day we will start seeing trades ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline, which arrives Monday.

So let’s spin around the rumors again.

The latest on Tarik Skubal

Wednesday afternoon, Tarik Skubal exited the Detroit Tigers’ game against the Baltimore Orioles in the top of the seventh, having given up a two-run single. He left to a standing ovation from the Detroit faithful, who were wondering like the rest of us whether it was his last outing for the Tigers. He exited having handed the Detroit bullpen a 7-1 lead with two outs and a pair of runners aboard.

What happened after that is, according to one MLB executive, the final “sign” that the Tigers need to move their ace at the deadline.

Baltimore scored four more runs in the inning, and went on to win 10-9 in extras. Despite recording his 1,000th strikeout in the performance, Skubal received a no-decision for his efforts.

“If there was ever a sign that the Tigers should trade Skubal, that was it. The offers should start flowing in any minute,” said one NL executive to MLB insider Mark Feinsand.

Feinsand was not the only one reporting that a deal would be happening. ESPN’s Jeff Passan declared Skubal “will be traded” in his MLB Trade Deadline preview as well.

So what teams could be making a move for the ace? As we outlined yesterday the Milwaukee Brewers are among the suitors, and Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reported that the Chicago Cubs are expected to make a run at the left-hander. But according to Passan, when it comes to potential suitors they are “all almost resigned to the idea that the Los Angeles Dodgers are going to get Tarik Skubal.”

A potential reason for that? The lingering health issues for Shohei Ohtani. With the superstar dealing with left knee and right bicep issues, it has put his time on the bump on hold. His last start came on July 3, and manager Dave Roberts indicated earlier this week that his throwing program is on hold. “Trying to mitigate that, we stopped the throwing, stopped the bullpens — hopefully, No. 1, take care of the knee and then not have him try to create velocity with the arm that’s not 100%,” Roberts said.

With Ohtani on the shelf — as a pitcher — that could mean a big push for Skubal from the Dodgers.

If you’re looking for a sleeper team in the Skubal sweepstakes, keep an eye on Tampa Bay. The Rays saw left-hander Shane McClanahan leave his start on Thursday with “back tightness,” and while it is not considered a “long-term” issue, there is an opening for Tampa Bay. As one MLB source told MLB.com, “[t]he Brewers, Rays and Dodgers have the most high-end prospects to move. It would be somewhat surprising if he didn’t wind up with one of those three teams.”

Hunter Greene on the market

While Skubal will command the headlines, another top arm could be on the move.

According to MLB.com, there is a “50-50” chance that the Cincinnati Reds move flame-thrower Hunter Greene ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline. Greene missed the first half of the season following surgery to remove bone chips from his right elbow, as he put off the surgery last season and threw through the discomfort, option for an injection rather than surgery.

He ultimately went under the knife in the spring, costing him the start to 2026. Since returning he has gone 2-2 with a 7.06 ERA in four starts this season.

But this is a former All-Star, who is under club control for the next few seasons. He signed a six-year extension with Cincinnati in 2023, and is controlled through 2028. Greene is owed $15 million in 2027, $16 million in 2028, and has a $21 million club option for 2029, and his contract comes with a $2 million buyout.

His health is probably the biggest concern, as he has missed time beyond the recent surgery. Tommy John surgery in 2018 cost him the entire 2019 Minor League campaign, and he has lost time due to shoulder and lower-body issues.

“Health,” said one MLB executive to MLB.com about the concern. “He falls into the high quality and moderate-to-low quantity category.”

Still, during his 2024 All-Star campaign, he went 9-5 with a 2.75 ERA, earning Cy Young votes. Teams that miss on Skubal could be enticed to bet on that talent — at that low cost — for the next few years.

Our friends at Battery Power are taking about Greene as well:

Kris Willis

Trade Deadline Discussion Thread

We had a lot of good conversation yesterday. Perhaps we put all of our trade deadline chatter and thoughts here and get this post pinned through the deadline Monday.

Today I want to talk about someone that I don’t think we have discussed which is Hunter Greene. His name has been out there the last few days and while I’m still not convinced that the Reds will move him, I’m curious to what you guys think.

I’m in the camp of being reluctant to part with the prospects it would take to get Tarik Skubal, who would essentially be a 2 month + postseason rental. Greene on the other hand is 27 and is signed through 2028 with an option for 2029.

Would you be willing to give up the prospects for Greene? Let me know below and lets use this to discuss other potential deals that we might see over the next three days.

Rec 1CommentsThin Stroke Comment Icon BubbleReplyRead 53 replies

Yankees calling on catchers

As we noted yesterday, the New York Yankees are one of several teams looking for help behind the plate at the MLB Trade Deadline.

According to longtime MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Yankees have inquired with the Baltimore Orioles about Adley Rutschman, but from the outside looking in it would seem unlikely that Mike Elias would move the catcher within the division:

However, Passan reported on his podcast earlier this week that the Orioles are at least “open” to moving players such as Rutschman. Open is one thing, but making a deal … and one to the Yankees … is another.

Colorado Rockies catcher Hunter Goodman is another option generating buzz, given last year’s slash line of .278/.323/.520, but the fact that he has three arbitration years coming up before he becomes a free agent in 2030 has pushed the asking price up.

Could Mason Miller be moved?

With the Los Angeles Dodgers running away with things in the NL West, the San Diego Padres sit in third place, 14 games back in the division.

But at one game over .500, the Padres are just two games out in the NL Wild Card chase, so moving a key player ahead of hte deadline does not seem likely.

Until you remember general manager A.J. Preller is involved

After swinging last year’s biggest move, the deal with the Athletics for closer Mason Miller, could Preller really turn around and trade him at the 2026 MLB Trade Deadline? According to Passan it is at least possible, but Preller has been telling teams that no prospect can be listed as off limits in such a deal.

With the New York Mets mired at the bottom of the NL standings, they are expected to move some players ahead of the deadline.

One of them could be right-hander Clay Holmes.

Holmes has not pitched in the majors since mid-May, when he suffered a broken right fibula, but was 4-4 in his nine starts with a 2.39 ERA and WHIP of 1.101. He pitched four scoreless innings for Low-A St. Lucia earlier this week, a game that was attended by scouts from several teams including the Yankees, White Sox, Phillies, Rays, Rangers, Dodgers, according to The Athletic.

He is set to hit free agency at the end of the season, but is still expected to have a “strong” market. One AL executive told FanSided that “[i]t would be a surprise if he didn’t [get traded].”

#MLB #trade #deadline #Latest #rumors #Tarik #Skubal #Hunter #Greene"> MLB trade deadline: Latest rumors on Tarik Skubal, Hunter Greene, and more  If you believe Jeff Passan, today is the day we will start seeing trades ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline, which arrives Monday.So let’s spin around the rumors again.The latest on Tarik SkubalWednesday afternoon, Tarik Skubal exited the Detroit Tigers’ game against the Baltimore Orioles in the top of the seventh, having given up a two-run single. He left to a standing ovation from the Detroit faithful, who were wondering like the rest of us whether it was his last outing for the Tigers. He exited having handed the Detroit bullpen a 7-1 lead with two outs and a pair of runners aboard.What happened after that is, according to one MLB executive, the final “sign” that the Tigers need to move their ace at the deadline.Baltimore scored four more runs in the inning, and went on to win 10-9 in extras. Despite recording his 1,000th strikeout in the performance, Skubal received a no-decision for his efforts.“If there was ever a sign that the Tigers should trade Skubal, that was it. The offers should start flowing in any minute,” said one NL executive to MLB insider Mark Feinsand.Feinsand was not the only one reporting that a deal would be happening. ESPN’s Jeff Passan declared Skubal “will be traded” in his MLB Trade Deadline preview as well.So what teams could be making a move for the ace? As we outlined yesterday the Milwaukee Brewers are among the suitors, and Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reported that the Chicago Cubs are expected to make a run at the left-hander. But according to Passan, when it comes to potential suitors they are “all almost resigned to the idea that the Los Angeles Dodgers are going to get Tarik Skubal.”A potential reason for that? The lingering health issues for Shohei Ohtani. With the superstar dealing with left knee and right bicep issues, it has put his time on the bump on hold. His last start came on July 3, and manager Dave Roberts indicated earlier this week that his throwing program is on hold. “Trying to mitigate that, we stopped the throwing, stopped the bullpens — hopefully, No. 1, take care of the knee and then not have him try to create velocity with the arm that’s not 100%,” Roberts said.With Ohtani on the shelf — as a pitcher — that could mean a big push for Skubal from the Dodgers.If you’re looking for a sleeper team in the Skubal sweepstakes, keep an eye on Tampa Bay. The Rays saw left-hander Shane McClanahan leave his start on Thursday with “back tightness,” and while it is not considered a “long-term” issue, there is an opening for Tampa Bay. As one MLB source told MLB.com, “[t]he Brewers, Rays and Dodgers have the most high-end prospects to move. It would be somewhat surprising if he didn’t wind up with one of those three teams.”Hunter Greene on the marketWhile Skubal will command the headlines, another top arm could be on the move.According to MLB.com, there is a “50-50” chance that the Cincinnati Reds move flame-thrower Hunter Greene ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline. Greene missed the first half of the season following surgery to remove bone chips from his right elbow, as he put off the surgery last season and threw through the discomfort, option for an injection rather than surgery.He ultimately went under the knife in the spring, costing him the start to 2026. Since returning he has gone 2-2 with a 7.06 ERA in four starts this season.But this is a former All-Star, who is under club control for the next few seasons. He signed a six-year extension with Cincinnati in 2023, and is controlled through 2028. Greene is owed $15 million in 2027, $16 million in 2028, and has a $21 million club option for 2029, and his contract comes with a $2 million buyout.His health is probably the biggest concern, as he has missed time beyond the recent surgery. Tommy John surgery in 2018 cost him the entire 2019 Minor League campaign, and he has lost time due to shoulder and lower-body issues.“Health,” said one MLB executive to MLB.com about the concern. “He falls into the high quality and moderate-to-low quantity category.”Still, during his 2024 All-Star campaign, he went 9-5 with a 2.75 ERA, earning Cy Young votes. Teams that miss on Skubal could be enticed to bet on that talent — at that low cost — for the next few years.Our friends at Battery Power are taking about Greene as well:Trade Deadline Discussion ThreadWe had a lot of good conversation yesterday. Perhaps we put all of our trade deadline chatter and thoughts here and get this post pinned through the deadline Monday. Today I want to talk about someone that I don’t think we have discussed which is Hunter Greene. His name has been out there the last few days and while I’m still not convinced that the Reds will move him, I’m curious to what you guys think. I’m in the camp of being reluctant to part with the prospects it would take to get Tarik Skubal, who would essentially be a 2 month + postseason rental. Greene on the other hand is 27 and is signed through 2028 with an option for 2029. Would you be willing to give up the prospects for Greene? Let me know below and lets use this to discuss other potential deals that we might see over the next three days. Rec 1CommentsThin Stroke Comment Icon BubbleReplyRead 53 repliesYankees calling on catchersAs we noted yesterday, the New York Yankees are one of several teams looking for help behind the plate at the MLB Trade Deadline.According to longtime MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Yankees have inquired with the Baltimore Orioles about Adley Rutschman, but from the outside looking in it would seem unlikely that Mike Elias would move the catcher within the division:However, Passan reported on his podcast earlier this week that the Orioles are at least “open” to moving players such as Rutschman. Open is one thing, but making a deal … and one to the Yankees … is another.Colorado Rockies catcher Hunter Goodman is another option generating buzz, given last year’s slash line of .278/.323/.520, but the fact that he has three arbitration years coming up before he becomes a free agent in 2030 has pushed the asking price up.Could Mason Miller be moved?With the Los Angeles Dodgers running away with things in the NL West, the San Diego Padres sit in third place, 14 games back in the division.But at one game over .500, the Padres are just two games out in the NL Wild Card chase, so moving a key player ahead of hte deadline does not seem likely.Until you remember general manager A.J. Preller is involvedAfter swinging last year’s biggest move, the deal with the Athletics for closer Mason Miller, could Preller really turn around and trade him at the 2026 MLB Trade Deadline? According to Passan it is at least possible, but Preller has been telling teams that no prospect can be listed as off limits in such a deal.With the New York Mets mired at the bottom of the NL standings, they are expected to move some players ahead of the deadline.One of them could be right-hander Clay Holmes.Holmes has not pitched in the majors since mid-May, when he suffered a broken right fibula, but was 4-4 in his nine starts with a 2.39 ERA and WHIP of 1.101. He pitched four scoreless innings for Low-A St. Lucia earlier this week, a game that was attended by scouts from several teams including the Yankees, White Sox, Phillies, Rays, Rangers, Dodgers, according to The Athletic.He is set to hit free agency at the end of the season, but is still expected to have a “strong” market. One AL executive told FanSided that “[i]t would be a surprise if he didn’t [get traded].”  #MLB #trade #deadline #Latest #rumors #Tarik #Skubal #Hunter #Greene
Sports news

today is the day we will start seeing trades ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline, which arrives Monday.

So let’s spin around the rumors again.

The latest on Tarik Skubal

Wednesday afternoon, Tarik Skubal exited the Detroit Tigers’ game against the Baltimore Orioles in the top of the seventh, having given up a two-run single. He left to a standing ovation from the Detroit faithful, who were wondering like the rest of us whether it was his last outing for the Tigers. He exited having handed the Detroit bullpen a 7-1 lead with two outs and a pair of runners aboard.

What happened after that is, according to one MLB executive, the final “sign” that the Tigers need to move their ace at the deadline.

Baltimore scored four more runs in the inning, and went on to win 10-9 in extras. Despite recording his 1,000th strikeout in the performance, Skubal received a no-decision for his efforts.

“If there was ever a sign that the Tigers should trade Skubal, that was it. The offers should start flowing in any minute,” said one NL executive to MLB insider Mark Feinsand.

Feinsand was not the only one reporting that a deal would be happening. ESPN’s Jeff Passan declared Skubal “will be traded” in his MLB Trade Deadline preview as well.

So what teams could be making a move for the ace? As we outlined yesterday the Milwaukee Brewers are among the suitors, and Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reported that the Chicago Cubs are expected to make a run at the left-hander. But according to Passan, when it comes to potential suitors they are “all almost resigned to the idea that the Los Angeles Dodgers are going to get Tarik Skubal.”

A potential reason for that? The lingering health issues for Shohei Ohtani. With the superstar dealing with left knee and right bicep issues, it has put his time on the bump on hold. His last start came on July 3, and manager Dave Roberts indicated earlier this week that his throwing program is on hold. “Trying to mitigate that, we stopped the throwing, stopped the bullpens — hopefully, No. 1, take care of the knee and then not have him try to create velocity with the arm that’s not 100%,” Roberts said.

With Ohtani on the shelf — as a pitcher — that could mean a big push for Skubal from the Dodgers.

If you’re looking for a sleeper team in the Skubal sweepstakes, keep an eye on Tampa Bay. The Rays saw left-hander Shane McClanahan leave his start on Thursday with “back tightness,” and while it is not considered a “long-term” issue, there is an opening for Tampa Bay. As one MLB source told MLB.com, “[t]he Brewers, Rays and Dodgers have the most high-end prospects to move. It would be somewhat surprising if he didn’t wind up with one of those three teams.”

Hunter Greene on the market

While Skubal will command the headlines, another top arm could be on the move.

According to MLB.com, there is a “50-50” chance that the Cincinnati Reds move flame-thrower Hunter Greene ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline. Greene missed the first half of the season following surgery to remove bone chips from his right elbow, as he put off the surgery last season and threw through the discomfort, option for an injection rather than surgery.

He ultimately went under the knife in the spring, costing him the start to 2026. Since returning he has gone 2-2 with a 7.06 ERA in four starts this season.

But this is a former All-Star, who is under club control for the next few seasons. He signed a six-year extension with Cincinnati in 2023, and is controlled through 2028. Greene is owed $15 million in 2027, $16 million in 2028, and has a $21 million club option for 2029, and his contract comes with a $2 million buyout.

His health is probably the biggest concern, as he has missed time beyond the recent surgery. Tommy John surgery in 2018 cost him the entire 2019 Minor League campaign, and he has lost time due to shoulder and lower-body issues.

“Health,” said one MLB executive to MLB.com about the concern. “He falls into the high quality and moderate-to-low quantity category.”

Still, during his 2024 All-Star campaign, he went 9-5 with a 2.75 ERA, earning Cy Young votes. Teams that miss on Skubal could be enticed to bet on that talent — at that low cost — for the next few years.

Our friends at Battery Power are taking about Greene as well:

Kris Willis

Trade Deadline Discussion Thread

We had a lot of good conversation yesterday. Perhaps we put all of our trade deadline chatter and thoughts here and get this post pinned through the deadline Monday.

Today I want to talk about someone that I don’t think we have discussed which is Hunter Greene. His name has been out there the last few days and while I’m still not convinced that the Reds will move him, I’m curious to what you guys think.

I’m in the camp of being reluctant to part with the prospects it would take to get Tarik Skubal, who would essentially be a 2 month + postseason rental. Greene on the other hand is 27 and is signed through 2028 with an option for 2029.

Would you be willing to give up the prospects for Greene? Let me know below and lets use this to discuss other potential deals that we might see over the next three days.

Rec 1CommentsThin Stroke Comment Icon BubbleReplyRead 53 replies

Yankees calling on catchers

As we noted yesterday, the New York Yankees are one of several teams looking for help behind the plate at the MLB Trade Deadline.

According to longtime MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Yankees have inquired with the Baltimore Orioles about Adley Rutschman, but from the outside looking in it would seem unlikely that Mike Elias would move the catcher within the division:

However, Passan reported on his podcast earlier this week that the Orioles are at least “open” to moving players such as Rutschman. Open is one thing, but making a deal … and one to the Yankees … is another.

Colorado Rockies catcher Hunter Goodman is another option generating buzz, given last year’s slash line of .278/.323/.520, but the fact that he has three arbitration years coming up before he becomes a free agent in 2030 has pushed the asking price up.

Could Mason Miller be moved?

With the Los Angeles Dodgers running away with things in the NL West, the San Diego Padres sit in third place, 14 games back in the division.

But at one game over .500, the Padres are just two games out in the NL Wild Card chase, so moving a key player ahead of hte deadline does not seem likely.

Until you remember general manager A.J. Preller is involved

After swinging last year’s biggest move, the deal with the Athletics for closer Mason Miller, could Preller really turn around and trade him at the 2026 MLB Trade Deadline? According to Passan it is at least possible, but Preller has been telling teams that no prospect can be listed as off limits in such a deal.

With the New York Mets mired at the bottom of the NL standings, they are expected to move some players ahead of the deadline.

One of them could be right-hander Clay Holmes.

Holmes has not pitched in the majors since mid-May, when he suffered a broken right fibula, but was 4-4 in his nine starts with a 2.39 ERA and WHIP of 1.101. He pitched four scoreless innings for Low-A St. Lucia earlier this week, a game that was attended by scouts from several teams including the Yankees, White Sox, Phillies, Rays, Rangers, Dodgers, according to The Athletic.

He is set to hit free agency at the end of the season, but is still expected to have a “strong” market. One AL executive told FanSided that “[i]t would be a surprise if he didn’t [get traded].”

#MLB #trade #deadline #Latest #rumors #Tarik #Skubal #Hunter #Greene">MLB trade deadline: Latest rumors on Tarik Skubal, Hunter Greene, and more

If you believe Jeff Passan, today is the day we will start seeing trades ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline, which arrives Monday.

So let’s spin around the rumors again.

The latest on Tarik Skubal

Wednesday afternoon, Tarik Skubal exited the Detroit Tigers’ game against the Baltimore Orioles in the top of the seventh, having given up a two-run single. He left to a standing ovation from the Detroit faithful, who were wondering like the rest of us whether it was his last outing for the Tigers. He exited having handed the Detroit bullpen a 7-1 lead with two outs and a pair of runners aboard.

What happened after that is, according to one MLB executive, the final “sign” that the Tigers need to move their ace at the deadline.

Baltimore scored four more runs in the inning, and went on to win 10-9 in extras. Despite recording his 1,000th strikeout in the performance, Skubal received a no-decision for his efforts.

“If there was ever a sign that the Tigers should trade Skubal, that was it. The offers should start flowing in any minute,” said one NL executive to MLB insider Mark Feinsand.

Feinsand was not the only one reporting that a deal would be happening. ESPN’s Jeff Passan declared Skubal “will be traded” in his MLB Trade Deadline preview as well.

So what teams could be making a move for the ace? As we outlined yesterday the Milwaukee Brewers are among the suitors, and Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reported that the Chicago Cubs are expected to make a run at the left-hander. But according to Passan, when it comes to potential suitors they are “all almost resigned to the idea that the Los Angeles Dodgers are going to get Tarik Skubal.”

A potential reason for that? The lingering health issues for Shohei Ohtani. With the superstar dealing with left knee and right bicep issues, it has put his time on the bump on hold. His last start came on July 3, and manager Dave Roberts indicated earlier this week that his throwing program is on hold. “Trying to mitigate that, we stopped the throwing, stopped the bullpens — hopefully, No. 1, take care of the knee and then not have him try to create velocity with the arm that’s not 100%,” Roberts said.

With Ohtani on the shelf — as a pitcher — that could mean a big push for Skubal from the Dodgers.

If you’re looking for a sleeper team in the Skubal sweepstakes, keep an eye on Tampa Bay. The Rays saw left-hander Shane McClanahan leave his start on Thursday with “back tightness,” and while it is not considered a “long-term” issue, there is an opening for Tampa Bay. As one MLB source told MLB.com, “[t]he Brewers, Rays and Dodgers have the most high-end prospects to move. It would be somewhat surprising if he didn’t wind up with one of those three teams.”

Hunter Greene on the market

While Skubal will command the headlines, another top arm could be on the move.

According to MLB.com, there is a “50-50” chance that the Cincinnati Reds move flame-thrower Hunter Greene ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline. Greene missed the first half of the season following surgery to remove bone chips from his right elbow, as he put off the surgery last season and threw through the discomfort, option for an injection rather than surgery.

He ultimately went under the knife in the spring, costing him the start to 2026. Since returning he has gone 2-2 with a 7.06 ERA in four starts this season.

But this is a former All-Star, who is under club control for the next few seasons. He signed a six-year extension with Cincinnati in 2023, and is controlled through 2028. Greene is owed $15 million in 2027, $16 million in 2028, and has a $21 million club option for 2029, and his contract comes with a $2 million buyout.

His health is probably the biggest concern, as he has missed time beyond the recent surgery. Tommy John surgery in 2018 cost him the entire 2019 Minor League campaign, and he has lost time due to shoulder and lower-body issues.

“Health,” said one MLB executive to MLB.com about the concern. “He falls into the high quality and moderate-to-low quantity category.”

Still, during his 2024 All-Star campaign, he went 9-5 with a 2.75 ERA, earning Cy Young votes. Teams that miss on Skubal could be enticed to bet on that talent — at that low cost — for the next few years.

Our friends at Battery Power are taking about Greene as well:

Kris Willis

Trade Deadline Discussion Thread

We had a lot of good conversation yesterday. Perhaps we put all of our trade deadline chatter and thoughts here and get this post pinned through the deadline Monday.

Today I want to talk about someone that I don’t think we have discussed which is Hunter Greene. His name has been out there the last few days and while I’m still not convinced that the Reds will move him, I’m curious to what you guys think.

I’m in the camp of being reluctant to part with the prospects it would take to get Tarik Skubal, who would essentially be a 2 month + postseason rental. Greene on the other hand is 27 and is signed through 2028 with an option for 2029.

Would you be willing to give up the prospects for Greene? Let me know below and lets use this to discuss other potential deals that we might see over the next three days.

Rec 1CommentsThin Stroke Comment Icon BubbleReplyRead 53 replies

Yankees calling on catchers

As we noted yesterday, the New York Yankees are one of several teams looking for help behind the plate at the MLB Trade Deadline.

According to longtime MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Yankees have inquired with the Baltimore Orioles about Adley Rutschman, but from the outside looking in it would seem unlikely that Mike Elias would move the catcher within the division:

However, Passan reported on his podcast earlier this week that the Orioles are at least “open” to moving players such as Rutschman. Open is one thing, but making a deal … and one to the Yankees … is another.

Colorado Rockies catcher Hunter Goodman is another option generating buzz, given last year’s slash line of .278/.323/.520, but the fact that he has three arbitration years coming up before he becomes a free agent in 2030 has pushed the asking price up.

Could Mason Miller be moved?

With the Los Angeles Dodgers running away with things in the NL West, the San Diego Padres sit in third place, 14 games back in the division.

But at one game over .500, the Padres are just two games out in the NL Wild Card chase, so moving a key player ahead of hte deadline does not seem likely.

Until you remember general manager A.J. Preller is involved

After swinging last year’s biggest move, the deal with the Athletics for closer Mason Miller, could Preller really turn around and trade him at the 2026 MLB Trade Deadline? According to Passan it is at least possible, but Preller has been telling teams that no prospect can be listed as off limits in such a deal.

With the New York Mets mired at the bottom of the NL standings, they are expected to move some players ahead of the deadline.

One of them could be right-hander Clay Holmes.

Holmes has not pitched in the majors since mid-May, when he suffered a broken right fibula, but was 4-4 in his nine starts with a 2.39 ERA and WHIP of 1.101. He pitched four scoreless innings for Low-A St. Lucia earlier this week, a game that was attended by scouts from several teams including the Yankees, White Sox, Phillies, Rays, Rangers, Dodgers, according to The Athletic.

He is set to hit free agency at the end of the season, but is still expected to have a “strong” market. One AL executive told FanSided that “[i]t would be a surprise if he didn’t [get traded].”

#MLB #trade #deadline #Latest #rumors #Tarik #Skubal #Hunter #Greene

If you believe Jeff Passan, today is the day we will start seeing trades ahead…

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per LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi. Ingemi reported that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s midseason trade deadline, and that they’ve gotten interest from across the league.

Couple of league sources I spoke with this morning said it's "most likely" that the Sparks will trade Kelsey Plum by the Sunday trade deadline. They've gotten multiple calls from other WNBA teams and the plan is to move her.

Marisa Ingemi (@mingemi.bsky.social) 2026-07-29T15:03:09.279Z

Plum is in the midst of a historic offensive season, albeit an injury-riddled one. She’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field. All of those numbers are career highs. She’s also shooting 38.3% from three, her highest mark since 2023. But she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games as she’s dealt with an ankle and a lower leg injury. The Sparks are currently out of the playoff mix, holding a 10-17 record and losers of 6 straight games.

Plum signed a one-year, $999,999 contract ahead of the season, after being traded to LA from Las Vegas in a three-team trade that saw the Seattle Storm get the No. 2 pick (and Li Yueru), and Las Vegas acquire Jewell Loyd. While Plum has individually excelled since arriving in Los Angeles, the team missed out on the playoffs in Year 1 and appears on track to do so again.

#WNBA #AllStar #guard #traded #reports"> WNBA All-Star guard will likely be traded, per reports  


	
	LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 21: Kelsey Plum #10 of the Los Angeles Sparks drives to the basket during the game against the New York Liberty on June 21, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images	

Kelsey Plum’s two-season tenure with the Los Angeles Sparks is likely coming to an end, per LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi. Ingemi reported that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s midseason trade deadline, and that they’ve gotten interest from across the league. 


Couple of league sources I spoke with this morning said it's "most likely" that the Sparks will trade Kelsey Plum by the Sunday trade deadline. They've gotten multiple calls from other WNBA teams and the plan is to move her.— Marisa Ingemi (@mingemi.bsky.social) 2026-07-29T15:03:09.279Z


Plum is in the midst of a historic offensive season, albeit an injury-riddled one. She’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field. All of those numbers are career highs. She’s also shooting 38.3% from three, her highest mark since 2023. But she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games as she’s dealt with an ankle and a lower leg injury. The Sparks are currently out of the playoff mix, holding a 10-17 record and losers of 6 straight games. 

Plum signed a one-year, 9,999 contract ahead of the season, after being traded to LA from Las Vegas in a three-team trade that saw the Seattle Storm get the No. 2 pick (and Li Yueru), and Las Vegas acquire Jewell Loyd.  While Plum has individually excelled since arriving in Los Angeles, the team missed out on the playoffs in Year 1 and appears on track to do so again.   #WNBA #AllStar #guard #traded #reports
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per LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi. Ingemi reported that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s midseason trade deadline, and that they’ve gotten interest from across the league.

Couple of league sources I spoke with this morning said it's "most likely" that the Sparks will trade Kelsey Plum by the Sunday trade deadline. They've gotten multiple calls from other WNBA teams and the plan is to move her.

Marisa Ingemi (@mingemi.bsky.social) 2026-07-29T15:03:09.279Z

Plum is in the midst of a historic offensive season, albeit an injury-riddled one. She’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field. All of those numbers are career highs. She’s also shooting 38.3% from three, her highest mark since 2023. But she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games as she’s dealt with an ankle and a lower leg injury. The Sparks are currently out of the playoff mix, holding a 10-17 record and losers of 6 straight games.

Plum signed a one-year, $999,999 contract ahead of the season, after being traded to LA from Las Vegas in a three-team trade that saw the Seattle Storm get the No. 2 pick (and Li Yueru), and Las Vegas acquire Jewell Loyd. While Plum has individually excelled since arriving in Los Angeles, the team missed out on the playoffs in Year 1 and appears on track to do so again.

#WNBA #AllStar #guard #traded #reports">WNBA All-Star guard will likely be traded, per reports
WNBA All-Star guard will likely be traded, per reports  


	
	LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 21: Kelsey Plum #10 of the Los Angeles Sparks drives to the basket during the game against the New York Liberty on June 21, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images	

Kelsey Plum’s two-season tenure with the Los Angeles Sparks is likely coming to an end, per LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi. Ingemi reported that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s midseason trade deadline, and that they’ve gotten interest from across the league. 


Couple of league sources I spoke with this morning said it's "most likely" that the Sparks will trade Kelsey Plum by the Sunday trade deadline. They've gotten multiple calls from other WNBA teams and the plan is to move her.— Marisa Ingemi (@mingemi.bsky.social) 2026-07-29T15:03:09.279Z


Plum is in the midst of a historic offensive season, albeit an injury-riddled one. She’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field. All of those numbers are career highs. She’s also shooting 38.3% from three, her highest mark since 2023. But she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games as she’s dealt with an ankle and a lower leg injury. The Sparks are currently out of the playoff mix, holding a 10-17 record and losers of 6 straight games. 

Plum signed a one-year, 9,999 contract ahead of the season, after being traded to LA from Las Vegas in a three-team trade that saw the Seattle Storm get the No. 2 pick (and Li Yueru), and Las Vegas acquire Jewell Loyd.  While Plum has individually excelled since arriving in Los Angeles, the team missed out on the playoffs in Year 1 and appears on track to do so again.   #WNBA #AllStar #guard #traded #reports
LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 21: Kelsey Plum #10 of the Los Angeles Sparks drives to the basket during the game against the New York Liberty on June 21, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Kelsey Plum’s two-season tenure with the Los Angeles Sparks is likely coming to an end, per LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi. Ingemi reported that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s midseason trade deadline, and that they’ve gotten interest from across the league.

Couple of league sources I spoke with this morning said it's "most likely" that the Sparks will trade Kelsey Plum by the Sunday trade deadline. They've gotten multiple calls from other WNBA teams and the plan is to move her.

Marisa Ingemi (@mingemi.bsky.social) 2026-07-29T15:03:09.279Z

Plum is in the midst of a historic offensive season, albeit an injury-riddled one. She’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field. All of those numbers are career highs. She’s also shooting 38.3% from three, her highest mark since 2023. But she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games as she’s dealt with an ankle and a lower leg injury. The Sparks are currently out of the playoff mix, holding a 10-17 record and losers of 6 straight games.

Plum signed a one-year, $999,999 contract ahead of the season, after being traded to LA from Las Vegas in a three-team trade that saw the Seattle Storm get the No. 2 pick (and Li Yueru), and Las Vegas acquire Jewell Loyd. While Plum has individually excelled since arriving in Los Angeles, the team missed out on the playoffs in Year 1 and appears on track to do so again.

#WNBA #AllStar #guard #traded #reports

LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 21: Kelsey Plum #10 of the Los Angeles Sparks drives…

Djokovic to make return at Cincinnati Masters

But Hewitt found his feet, breaking back in the sixth game and holding serve before succumbing 6-2.

Cheered on by a crowd that included his famous father, Hewitt started the second set brightly.

But he was broken again on his second service game and could not reel in De Minaur, who warmly embraced the youngster at the net after taking the match.

It was the first head-to-head ATP Tour match between the two, who have known each other for years.

“It was definitely weird,” said De Minaur. “I knew I was going to play him on the tour someday, but I didn’t actually expect it to be this week.

“It was an amazing feeling. Even all the lead up, seeing all the incredible pictures that we have together and how we’ve both grown up.

“I’m glad I managed to get through, but I’m sure we’re going to have many battles in the years to come.”

De Minaur next faces American Brandon Nakashima, who upset Czech seventh seed Jakub Mensik 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-4.

US home hope Shelton advanced with a gritty victory over France’s Humbert. After handing Humbert the first set with a double fault on set point, Shelton dominated the second.

Washington Open 2026: De Minaur beats teen Hewitt in all-Aussie clash  Defending champion Alex de Minaur powered into the Washington Open quarterfinals with a clinical 6-2, 6-3 victory over fellow Australian Cruz Hewitt.Women’s top seed Jessica Pegula also advanced, rallying to beat Magdalena Frech 3-6, 6-3, 6-0 while men’s second seed Ben Shelton outlasted Ugo Humbert 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.Top-seeded De Minaur was always likely to prove too much for 17-year-old qualifier Hewitt – son of Aussie great Lleyton Hewitt – who had only captured his first ATP victory in Tuesday’s first round.The first set threatened to become a demolition as De Minaur raced to a 5-0 lead.ALSO READ | Djokovic to make return at Cincinnati MastersBut Hewitt found his feet, breaking back in the sixth game and holding serve before succumbing 6-2.Cheered on by a crowd that included his famous father, Hewitt started the second set brightly.But he was broken again on his second service game and could not reel in De Minaur, who warmly embraced the youngster at the net after taking the match.It was the first head-to-head ATP Tour match between the two, who have known each other for years.“It was definitely weird,” said De Minaur. “I knew I was going to play him on the tour someday, but I didn’t actually expect it to be this week.“It was an amazing feeling. Even all the lead up, seeing all the incredible pictures that we have together and how we’ve both grown up.“I’m glad I managed to get through, but I’m sure we’re going to have many battles in the years to come.”De Minaur next faces American Brandon Nakashima, who upset Czech seventh seed Jakub Mensik 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-4.US home hope Shelton advanced with a gritty victory over France’s Humbert. After handing Humbert the first set with a double fault on set point, Shelton dominated the second. Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                            

                            Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                                                    But the third set was a tense affair and after seizing a break for a 5-4 lead Shelton had to fend off a break point before polishing off the match with a sharply angled serve that Humbert smacked into the net.“For me, it was all about heart tonight,” Shelton said after lining up a meeting with Chile’s Alejandro Tabile, a 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) winner over France’s Terence Atmane.Pegula also had to rally from a set down, saying she started her match against Poland’s Frech “just a little off” after a first-round bye.“I wasn’t quite attacking the ball, and I felt like once I did that, then everything else kind of started to click together,” said Pegula, who finished with 42 winners and won 12 of the last 15 games.Pegula next plays fifth-seeded Anna Kalinskaya, who saved two match points to beat Indonesia’s Janice Tjen 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (9/7).Published on Jul 31, 2026  #Washington #Open #Minaur #beats #teen #Hewitt #allAussie #clash

Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

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Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

But the third set was a tense affair and after seizing a break for a 5-4 lead Shelton had to fend off a break point before polishing off the match with a sharply angled serve that Humbert smacked into the net.

“For me, it was all about heart tonight,” Shelton said after lining up a meeting with Chile’s Alejandro Tabile, a 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) winner over France’s Terence Atmane.

Pegula also had to rally from a set down, saying she started her match against Poland’s Frech “just a little off” after a first-round bye.

“I wasn’t quite attacking the ball, and I felt like once I did that, then everything else kind of started to click together,” said Pegula, who finished with 42 winners and won 12 of the last 15 games.

Pegula next plays fifth-seeded Anna Kalinskaya, who saved two match points to beat Indonesia’s Janice Tjen 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (9/7).

Published on Jul 31, 2026

#Washington #Open #Minaur #beats #teen #Hewitt #allAussie #clash"> Washington Open 2026: De Minaur beats teen Hewitt in all-Aussie clash  Defending champion Alex de Minaur powered into the Washington Open quarterfinals with a clinical 6-2, 6-3 victory over fellow Australian Cruz Hewitt.Women’s top seed Jessica Pegula also advanced, rallying to beat Magdalena Frech 3-6, 6-3, 6-0 while men’s second seed Ben Shelton outlasted Ugo Humbert 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.Top-seeded De Minaur was always likely to prove too much for 17-year-old qualifier Hewitt – son of Aussie great Lleyton Hewitt – who had only captured his first ATP victory in Tuesday’s first round.The first set threatened to become a demolition as De Minaur raced to a 5-0 lead.ALSO READ | Djokovic to make return at Cincinnati MastersBut Hewitt found his feet, breaking back in the sixth game and holding serve before succumbing 6-2.Cheered on by a crowd that included his famous father, Hewitt started the second set brightly.But he was broken again on his second service game and could not reel in De Minaur, who warmly embraced the youngster at the net after taking the match.It was the first head-to-head ATP Tour match between the two, who have known each other for years.“It was definitely weird,” said De Minaur. “I knew I was going to play him on the tour someday, but I didn’t actually expect it to be this week.“It was an amazing feeling. Even all the lead up, seeing all the incredible pictures that we have together and how we’ve both grown up.“I’m glad I managed to get through, but I’m sure we’re going to have many battles in the years to come.”De Minaur next faces American Brandon Nakashima, who upset Czech seventh seed Jakub Mensik 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-4.US home hope Shelton advanced with a gritty victory over France’s Humbert. After handing Humbert the first set with a double fault on set point, Shelton dominated the second. Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                            

                            Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                                                    But the third set was a tense affair and after seizing a break for a 5-4 lead Shelton had to fend off a break point before polishing off the match with a sharply angled serve that Humbert smacked into the net.“For me, it was all about heart tonight,” Shelton said after lining up a meeting with Chile’s Alejandro Tabile, a 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) winner over France’s Terence Atmane.Pegula also had to rally from a set down, saying she started her match against Poland’s Frech “just a little off” after a first-round bye.“I wasn’t quite attacking the ball, and I felt like once I did that, then everything else kind of started to click together,” said Pegula, who finished with 42 winners and won 12 of the last 15 games.Pegula next plays fifth-seeded Anna Kalinskaya, who saved two match points to beat Indonesia’s Janice Tjen 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (9/7).Published on Jul 31, 2026  #Washington #Open #Minaur #beats #teen #Hewitt #allAussie #clash
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Djokovic to make return at Cincinnati Masters

But Hewitt found his feet, breaking back in the sixth game and holding serve before succumbing 6-2.

Cheered on by a crowd that included his famous father, Hewitt started the second set brightly.

But he was broken again on his second service game and could not reel in De Minaur, who warmly embraced the youngster at the net after taking the match.

It was the first head-to-head ATP Tour match between the two, who have known each other for years.

“It was definitely weird,” said De Minaur. “I knew I was going to play him on the tour someday, but I didn’t actually expect it to be this week.

“It was an amazing feeling. Even all the lead up, seeing all the incredible pictures that we have together and how we’ve both grown up.

“I’m glad I managed to get through, but I’m sure we’re going to have many battles in the years to come.”

De Minaur next faces American Brandon Nakashima, who upset Czech seventh seed Jakub Mensik 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-4.

US home hope Shelton advanced with a gritty victory over France’s Humbert. After handing Humbert the first set with a double fault on set point, Shelton dominated the second.

Washington Open 2026: De Minaur beats teen Hewitt in all-Aussie clash  Defending champion Alex de Minaur powered into the Washington Open quarterfinals with a clinical 6-2, 6-3 victory over fellow Australian Cruz Hewitt.Women’s top seed Jessica Pegula also advanced, rallying to beat Magdalena Frech 3-6, 6-3, 6-0 while men’s second seed Ben Shelton outlasted Ugo Humbert 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.Top-seeded De Minaur was always likely to prove too much for 17-year-old qualifier Hewitt – son of Aussie great Lleyton Hewitt – who had only captured his first ATP victory in Tuesday’s first round.The first set threatened to become a demolition as De Minaur raced to a 5-0 lead.ALSO READ | Djokovic to make return at Cincinnati MastersBut Hewitt found his feet, breaking back in the sixth game and holding serve before succumbing 6-2.Cheered on by a crowd that included his famous father, Hewitt started the second set brightly.But he was broken again on his second service game and could not reel in De Minaur, who warmly embraced the youngster at the net after taking the match.It was the first head-to-head ATP Tour match between the two, who have known each other for years.“It was definitely weird,” said De Minaur. “I knew I was going to play him on the tour someday, but I didn’t actually expect it to be this week.“It was an amazing feeling. Even all the lead up, seeing all the incredible pictures that we have together and how we’ve both grown up.“I’m glad I managed to get through, but I’m sure we’re going to have many battles in the years to come.”De Minaur next faces American Brandon Nakashima, who upset Czech seventh seed Jakub Mensik 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-4.US home hope Shelton advanced with a gritty victory over France’s Humbert. After handing Humbert the first set with a double fault on set point, Shelton dominated the second. Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                            

                            Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                                                    But the third set was a tense affair and after seizing a break for a 5-4 lead Shelton had to fend off a break point before polishing off the match with a sharply angled serve that Humbert smacked into the net.“For me, it was all about heart tonight,” Shelton said after lining up a meeting with Chile’s Alejandro Tabile, a 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) winner over France’s Terence Atmane.Pegula also had to rally from a set down, saying she started her match against Poland’s Frech “just a little off” after a first-round bye.“I wasn’t quite attacking the ball, and I felt like once I did that, then everything else kind of started to click together,” said Pegula, who finished with 42 winners and won 12 of the last 15 games.Pegula next plays fifth-seeded Anna Kalinskaya, who saved two match points to beat Indonesia’s Janice Tjen 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (9/7).Published on Jul 31, 2026  #Washington #Open #Minaur #beats #teen #Hewitt #allAussie #clash

Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

lightbox-info

Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

But the third set was a tense affair and after seizing a break for a 5-4 lead Shelton had to fend off a break point before polishing off the match with a sharply angled serve that Humbert smacked into the net.

“For me, it was all about heart tonight,” Shelton said after lining up a meeting with Chile’s Alejandro Tabile, a 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) winner over France’s Terence Atmane.

Pegula also had to rally from a set down, saying she started her match against Poland’s Frech “just a little off” after a first-round bye.

“I wasn’t quite attacking the ball, and I felt like once I did that, then everything else kind of started to click together,” said Pegula, who finished with 42 winners and won 12 of the last 15 games.

Pegula next plays fifth-seeded Anna Kalinskaya, who saved two match points to beat Indonesia’s Janice Tjen 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (9/7).

Published on Jul 31, 2026

#Washington #Open #Minaur #beats #teen #Hewitt #allAussie #clash">Washington Open 2026: De Minaur beats teen Hewitt in all-Aussie clash

Defending champion Alex de Minaur powered into the Washington Open quarterfinals with a clinical 6-2, 6-3 victory over fellow Australian Cruz Hewitt.

Women’s top seed Jessica Pegula also advanced, rallying to beat Magdalena Frech 3-6, 6-3, 6-0 while men’s second seed Ben Shelton outlasted Ugo Humbert 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.

Top-seeded De Minaur was always likely to prove too much for 17-year-old qualifier Hewitt – son of Aussie great Lleyton Hewitt – who had only captured his first ATP victory in Tuesday’s first round.

The first set threatened to become a demolition as De Minaur raced to a 5-0 lead.

ALSO READ | Djokovic to make return at Cincinnati Masters

But Hewitt found his feet, breaking back in the sixth game and holding serve before succumbing 6-2.

Cheered on by a crowd that included his famous father, Hewitt started the second set brightly.

But he was broken again on his second service game and could not reel in De Minaur, who warmly embraced the youngster at the net after taking the match.

It was the first head-to-head ATP Tour match between the two, who have known each other for years.

“It was definitely weird,” said De Minaur. “I knew I was going to play him on the tour someday, but I didn’t actually expect it to be this week.

“It was an amazing feeling. Even all the lead up, seeing all the incredible pictures that we have together and how we’ve both grown up.

“I’m glad I managed to get through, but I’m sure we’re going to have many battles in the years to come.”

De Minaur next faces American Brandon Nakashima, who upset Czech seventh seed Jakub Mensik 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-4.

US home hope Shelton advanced with a gritty victory over France’s Humbert. After handing Humbert the first set with a double fault on set point, Shelton dominated the second.

Washington Open 2026: De Minaur beats teen Hewitt in all-Aussie clash  Defending champion Alex de Minaur powered into the Washington Open quarterfinals with a clinical 6-2, 6-3 victory over fellow Australian Cruz Hewitt.Women’s top seed Jessica Pegula also advanced, rallying to beat Magdalena Frech 3-6, 6-3, 6-0 while men’s second seed Ben Shelton outlasted Ugo Humbert 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.Top-seeded De Minaur was always likely to prove too much for 17-year-old qualifier Hewitt – son of Aussie great Lleyton Hewitt – who had only captured his first ATP victory in Tuesday’s first round.The first set threatened to become a demolition as De Minaur raced to a 5-0 lead.ALSO READ | Djokovic to make return at Cincinnati MastersBut Hewitt found his feet, breaking back in the sixth game and holding serve before succumbing 6-2.Cheered on by a crowd that included his famous father, Hewitt started the second set brightly.But he was broken again on his second service game and could not reel in De Minaur, who warmly embraced the youngster at the net after taking the match.It was the first head-to-head ATP Tour match between the two, who have known each other for years.“It was definitely weird,” said De Minaur. “I knew I was going to play him on the tour someday, but I didn’t actually expect it to be this week.“It was an amazing feeling. Even all the lead up, seeing all the incredible pictures that we have together and how we’ve both grown up.“I’m glad I managed to get through, but I’m sure we’re going to have many battles in the years to come.”De Minaur next faces American Brandon Nakashima, who upset Czech seventh seed Jakub Mensik 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-4.US home hope Shelton advanced with a gritty victory over France’s Humbert. After handing Humbert the first set with a double fault on set point, Shelton dominated the second. Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                            

                            Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France.
                                                            | Photo Credit: 
                                Getty Images
                                                    But the third set was a tense affair and after seizing a break for a 5-4 lead Shelton had to fend off a break point before polishing off the match with a sharply angled serve that Humbert smacked into the net.“For me, it was all about heart tonight,” Shelton said after lining up a meeting with Chile’s Alejandro Tabile, a 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) winner over France’s Terence Atmane.Pegula also had to rally from a set down, saying she started her match against Poland’s Frech “just a little off” after a first-round bye.“I wasn’t quite attacking the ball, and I felt like once I did that, then everything else kind of started to click together,” said Pegula, who finished with 42 winners and won 12 of the last 15 games.Pegula next plays fifth-seeded Anna Kalinskaya, who saved two match points to beat Indonesia’s Janice Tjen 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (9/7).Published on Jul 31, 2026  #Washington #Open #Minaur #beats #teen #Hewitt #allAussie #clash

Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

lightbox-info

Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

But the third set was a tense affair and after seizing a break for a 5-4 lead Shelton had to fend off a break point before polishing off the match with a sharply angled serve that Humbert smacked into the net.

“For me, it was all about heart tonight,” Shelton said after lining up a meeting with Chile’s Alejandro Tabile, a 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) winner over France’s Terence Atmane.

Pegula also had to rally from a set down, saying she started her match against Poland’s Frech “just a little off” after a first-round bye.

“I wasn’t quite attacking the ball, and I felt like once I did that, then everything else kind of started to click together,” said Pegula, who finished with 42 winners and won 12 of the last 15 games.

Pegula next plays fifth-seeded Anna Kalinskaya, who saved two match points to beat Indonesia’s Janice Tjen 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (9/7).

Published on Jul 31, 2026

#Washington #Open #Minaur #beats #teen #Hewitt #allAussie #clash

Defending champion Alex de Minaur powered into the Washington Open quarterfinals with a clinical 6-2,…

much more of a question mark this year, with most of that unit now playing on Sundays, but I trust Matt Patricia to get them up to speed. The Buckeyes are my pick to win the national title, so I think they’re properly rated.

#2 Oregon: Overrated

Dante Moore has all the tools to be a great talent in the NFL, but I’m just not sold on him at Oregon. More importantly, I hate the moves that Oregon made at coordinator this offseason. Will Stein and Tosh Lupoi were two of the hottest names in this past coaching carousel, and I believe their losses will be drastically missed. Oregon might end up in the playoffs; I just think they’re slightly overrated right now.

#6 Indiana: Underrated

Jul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn ImagesJul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

If Josh Hoover can provide consistent quarterback play, the Hoosiers can easily win back-to-back national championships. Indiana lost playmakers on defense to the draft, but still brought key pieces to the defense in Tyrique Tucker, Rolijah Hardy, and Isaiah Jones. Coach Curt Cignetti also brings in the number-one portal class and has proven he can get the most out of these guys during his first two years in Bloomington. There’s no reason Indiana can’t win a national title again in 2027.

#13 Michigan: Overrated

Last season’s Michigan team was far worse than their record showed, and they’re even less talented this season. The Wolverines are severely lacking size in the trenches, and Bryce Underwood doesn’t have playmakers around him. Even if Underwood had Julian Sayin’s resources, I still don’t think he’s a top-half quarterback in the conference. Most importantly, Michigan lucked into a very favorable conference schedule, something they won’t be as lucky with this year. They’ll travel to Oklahoma in out-of-conference play and then deal with Iowa, Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, and Ohio State in Big 10 play as well.

#14 Penn State: Properly Rated


Penn State's Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) reaches for the ball as he attempts to block a punt in the first half of an NCAA football game against Nevada, Saturday, August 30, 2025, in State College, Pa.Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) reaches for the ball as he attempts to block a punt in the first half of an NCAA football game against Nevada, Saturday, August 30, 2025, in State College, Pa.

For all of James Franklin’s faults, he was always able to recruit above his weight class at Penn State. Matt Campbell might be stronger come gameday, but this is one of the least talented iterations of Penn State football we’ve seen in years. I would consider the Nittany Lions overrated, but they have one of the easiest power conference schedules. They’ll likely be favored in 9-10 games this year, and Iowa State transfer Rocco Becht should be able to handle most of the bottom-tier teams in the Big 10.

#16 Washington: Underrated

If Washington recovers from the Demond Williams Jr. NIL nightmare, this will be the most fun team to watch in the conference. Last season, Washington’s defense was young and underrated, but now they’re experienced and ready to run. They’ll return 10 impact starters and could quietly be one of the better units in the conference. Jonah Coleman and Denzel Boston will be tough to replace on offense, but I think breakout receiver Dezman Roebuck can provide enough support for Williams and this offense. Washington will be in the fight for a playoff spot this year.

#19 Iowa: Overrated

Iowa tight end Addison Ostrenga (87) runs for extra yards after a catch during the Hawkeyes' final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.Iowa tight end Addison Ostrenga (87) runs for extra yards after a catch during the Hawkeyes’ final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa’s offense looked competent at points last season, which is an upgrade from previous years. They were close to being a top-50 scoring offense last year, but I think they’re going to slide a decent bit, and they also shouldn’t have an elite defense to bail them out either. Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown are the least exciting QB competition in the country, and they’ll both be stuck behind a very inexperienced offensive line. Kamari Moulton and South Dakota transfer L.J. Phillips are an exceedingly talented backfield for Iowa, but I don’t trust their offensive front enough. The schedule is pretty light for Iowa, so Kirk Ferentz will probably find a way to get 9 wins again and make me look stupid.

#20 USC: Underrated

There is no universe in which USC finishes as the 8th-place team in the Big 10. If they aren’t making a serious playoff push this year, it might be the last we see from Lincoln Riley in Southern California. Riley has struggled to field a competent defense at USC, but bringing in former TCU head coach Gary Patterson was a wonderful move. They crushed the portal on defense, and play calling should be out of Riley’s hands, hopefully leading to big improvements. Jayden Maiava might struggle early on, throwing to an entirely new receiving core, but I still expect him to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country. I feel the USC is a dark horse playoff contender and will have a shot at playing in the Big 10 championship this year as well.

#Big #Preseason #Rankings #Teams #Overrated #Underrated #Deadspin.com"> Big 10 Preseason Rankings: Which Teams Are Overrated and Underrated? | Deadspin.com  Oregon quarterback Dante Moore walks off the field following the Oregon Ducks annual spring game on April 25, 2026 at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.   After winning their third straight national title, the Big 10 rightfully sits atop the throne of college football. With that success come expectations, and this year will be no different. Eight different Big 10 teams will start the year in the preseason top 25, tying the SEC for the most in the nation.As the SEC has been viewed in the past, success has led to more teams being overrated in the Big 10. Here are the teams in the preseason top 25, and whether I feel they’re overrated, underrated, or properly rated.#1 Ohio State: Properly RatedWhen your roster has Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson, and most importantly, Jeremiah Smith, you’re going to be one of the best offenses in the country. Ohio State’s defense will be much more of a question mark this year, with most of that unit now playing on Sundays, but I trust Matt Patricia to get them up to speed. The Buckeyes are my pick to win the national title, so I think they’re properly rated.#2 Oregon: OverratedDante Moore has all the tools to be a great talent in the NFL, but I’m just not sold on him at Oregon. More importantly, I hate the moves that Oregon made at coordinator this offseason. Will Stein and Tosh Lupoi were two of the hottest names in this past coaching carousel, and I believe their losses will be drastically missed. Oregon might end up in the playoffs; I just think they’re slightly overrated right now.#6 Indiana: Underrated Jul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images   If Josh Hoover can provide consistent quarterback play, the Hoosiers can easily win back-to-back national championships. Indiana lost playmakers on defense to the draft, but still brought key pieces to the defense in Tyrique Tucker, Rolijah Hardy, and Isaiah Jones. Coach Curt Cignetti also brings in the number-one portal class and has proven he can get the most out of these guys during his first two years in Bloomington. There’s no reason Indiana can’t win a national title again in 2027.#13 Michigan: OverratedLast season’s Michigan team was far worse than their record showed, and they’re even less talented this season. The Wolverines are severely lacking size in the trenches, and Bryce Underwood doesn’t have playmakers around him. Even if Underwood had Julian Sayin’s resources, I still don’t think he’s a top-half quarterback in the conference. Most importantly, Michigan lucked into a very favorable conference schedule, something they won’t be as lucky with this year. They’ll travel to Oklahoma in out-of-conference play and then deal with Iowa, Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, and Ohio State in Big 10 play as well.#14 Penn State: Properly Rated Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) reaches for the ball as he attempts to block a punt in the first half of an NCAA football game against Nevada, Saturday, August 30, 2025, in State College, Pa.    For all of James Franklin’s faults, he was always able to recruit above his weight class at Penn State. Matt Campbell might be stronger come gameday, but this is one of the least talented iterations of Penn State football we’ve seen in years. I would consider the Nittany Lions overrated, but they have one of the easiest power conference schedules. They’ll likely be favored in 9-10 games this year, and Iowa State transfer Rocco Becht should be able to handle most of the bottom-tier teams in the Big 10.#16 Washington: UnderratedIf Washington recovers from the Demond Williams Jr. NIL nightmare, this will be the most fun team to watch in the conference. Last season, Washington’s defense was young and underrated, but now they’re experienced and ready to run. They’ll return 10 impact starters and could quietly be one of the better units in the conference. Jonah Coleman and Denzel Boston will be tough to replace on offense, but I think breakout receiver Dezman Roebuck can provide enough support for Williams and this offense. Washington will be in the fight for a playoff spot this year.#19 Iowa: Overrated Iowa tight end Addison Ostrenga (87) runs for extra yards after a catch during the Hawkeyes’ final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.   Iowa’s offense looked competent at points last season, which is an upgrade from previous years. They were close to being a top-50 scoring offense last year, but I think they’re going to slide a decent bit, and they also shouldn’t have an elite defense to bail them out either. Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown are the least exciting QB competition in the country, and they’ll both be stuck behind a very inexperienced offensive line. Kamari Moulton and South Dakota transfer L.J. Phillips are an exceedingly talented backfield for Iowa, but I don’t trust their offensive front enough. The schedule is pretty light for Iowa, so Kirk Ferentz will probably find a way to get 9 wins again and make me look stupid.#20 USC: UnderratedThere is no universe in which USC finishes as the 8th-place team in the Big 10. If they aren’t making a serious playoff push this year, it might be the last we see from Lincoln Riley in Southern California. Riley has struggled to field a competent defense at USC, but bringing in former TCU head coach Gary Patterson was a wonderful move. They crushed the portal on defense, and play calling should be out of Riley’s hands, hopefully leading to big improvements. Jayden Maiava might struggle early on, throwing to an entirely new receiving core, but I still expect him to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country. I feel the USC is a dark horse playoff contender and will have a shot at playing in the Big 10 championship this year as well.   #Big #Preseason #Rankings #Teams #Overrated #Underrated #Deadspin.com
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much more of a question mark this year, with most of that unit now playing on Sundays, but I trust Matt Patricia to get them up to speed. The Buckeyes are my pick to win the national title, so I think they’re properly rated.

#2 Oregon: Overrated

Dante Moore has all the tools to be a great talent in the NFL, but I’m just not sold on him at Oregon. More importantly, I hate the moves that Oregon made at coordinator this offseason. Will Stein and Tosh Lupoi were two of the hottest names in this past coaching carousel, and I believe their losses will be drastically missed. Oregon might end up in the playoffs; I just think they’re slightly overrated right now.

#6 Indiana: Underrated

Jul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn ImagesJul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

If Josh Hoover can provide consistent quarterback play, the Hoosiers can easily win back-to-back national championships. Indiana lost playmakers on defense to the draft, but still brought key pieces to the defense in Tyrique Tucker, Rolijah Hardy, and Isaiah Jones. Coach Curt Cignetti also brings in the number-one portal class and has proven he can get the most out of these guys during his first two years in Bloomington. There’s no reason Indiana can’t win a national title again in 2027.

#13 Michigan: Overrated

Last season’s Michigan team was far worse than their record showed, and they’re even less talented this season. The Wolverines are severely lacking size in the trenches, and Bryce Underwood doesn’t have playmakers around him. Even if Underwood had Julian Sayin’s resources, I still don’t think he’s a top-half quarterback in the conference. Most importantly, Michigan lucked into a very favorable conference schedule, something they won’t be as lucky with this year. They’ll travel to Oklahoma in out-of-conference play and then deal with Iowa, Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, and Ohio State in Big 10 play as well.

#14 Penn State: Properly Rated


Penn State's Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) reaches for the ball as he attempts to block a punt in the first half of an NCAA football game against Nevada, Saturday, August 30, 2025, in State College, Pa.Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) reaches for the ball as he attempts to block a punt in the first half of an NCAA football game against Nevada, Saturday, August 30, 2025, in State College, Pa.

For all of James Franklin’s faults, he was always able to recruit above his weight class at Penn State. Matt Campbell might be stronger come gameday, but this is one of the least talented iterations of Penn State football we’ve seen in years. I would consider the Nittany Lions overrated, but they have one of the easiest power conference schedules. They’ll likely be favored in 9-10 games this year, and Iowa State transfer Rocco Becht should be able to handle most of the bottom-tier teams in the Big 10.

#16 Washington: Underrated

If Washington recovers from the Demond Williams Jr. NIL nightmare, this will be the most fun team to watch in the conference. Last season, Washington’s defense was young and underrated, but now they’re experienced and ready to run. They’ll return 10 impact starters and could quietly be one of the better units in the conference. Jonah Coleman and Denzel Boston will be tough to replace on offense, but I think breakout receiver Dezman Roebuck can provide enough support for Williams and this offense. Washington will be in the fight for a playoff spot this year.

#19 Iowa: Overrated

Iowa tight end Addison Ostrenga (87) runs for extra yards after a catch during the Hawkeyes' final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.Iowa tight end Addison Ostrenga (87) runs for extra yards after a catch during the Hawkeyes’ final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa’s offense looked competent at points last season, which is an upgrade from previous years. They were close to being a top-50 scoring offense last year, but I think they’re going to slide a decent bit, and they also shouldn’t have an elite defense to bail them out either. Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown are the least exciting QB competition in the country, and they’ll both be stuck behind a very inexperienced offensive line. Kamari Moulton and South Dakota transfer L.J. Phillips are an exceedingly talented backfield for Iowa, but I don’t trust their offensive front enough. The schedule is pretty light for Iowa, so Kirk Ferentz will probably find a way to get 9 wins again and make me look stupid.

#20 USC: Underrated

There is no universe in which USC finishes as the 8th-place team in the Big 10. If they aren’t making a serious playoff push this year, it might be the last we see from Lincoln Riley in Southern California. Riley has struggled to field a competent defense at USC, but bringing in former TCU head coach Gary Patterson was a wonderful move. They crushed the portal on defense, and play calling should be out of Riley’s hands, hopefully leading to big improvements. Jayden Maiava might struggle early on, throwing to an entirely new receiving core, but I still expect him to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country. I feel the USC is a dark horse playoff contender and will have a shot at playing in the Big 10 championship this year as well.

#Big #Preseason #Rankings #Teams #Overrated #Underrated #Deadspin.com">Big 10 Preseason Rankings: Which Teams Are Overrated and Underrated? | Deadspin.com
Big 10 Preseason Rankings: Which Teams Are Overrated and Underrated? | Deadspin.com  Oregon quarterback Dante Moore walks off the field following the Oregon Ducks annual spring game on April 25, 2026 at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.   After winning their third straight national title, the Big 10 rightfully sits atop the throne of college football. With that success come expectations, and this year will be no different. Eight different Big 10 teams will start the year in the preseason top 25, tying the SEC for the most in the nation.As the SEC has been viewed in the past, success has led to more teams being overrated in the Big 10. Here are the teams in the preseason top 25, and whether I feel they’re overrated, underrated, or properly rated.#1 Ohio State: Properly RatedWhen your roster has Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson, and most importantly, Jeremiah Smith, you’re going to be one of the best offenses in the country. Ohio State’s defense will be much more of a question mark this year, with most of that unit now playing on Sundays, but I trust Matt Patricia to get them up to speed. The Buckeyes are my pick to win the national title, so I think they’re properly rated.#2 Oregon: OverratedDante Moore has all the tools to be a great talent in the NFL, but I’m just not sold on him at Oregon. More importantly, I hate the moves that Oregon made at coordinator this offseason. Will Stein and Tosh Lupoi were two of the hottest names in this past coaching carousel, and I believe their losses will be drastically missed. Oregon might end up in the playoffs; I just think they’re slightly overrated right now.#6 Indiana: Underrated Jul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images   If Josh Hoover can provide consistent quarterback play, the Hoosiers can easily win back-to-back national championships. Indiana lost playmakers on defense to the draft, but still brought key pieces to the defense in Tyrique Tucker, Rolijah Hardy, and Isaiah Jones. Coach Curt Cignetti also brings in the number-one portal class and has proven he can get the most out of these guys during his first two years in Bloomington. There’s no reason Indiana can’t win a national title again in 2027.#13 Michigan: OverratedLast season’s Michigan team was far worse than their record showed, and they’re even less talented this season. The Wolverines are severely lacking size in the trenches, and Bryce Underwood doesn’t have playmakers around him. Even if Underwood had Julian Sayin’s resources, I still don’t think he’s a top-half quarterback in the conference. Most importantly, Michigan lucked into a very favorable conference schedule, something they won’t be as lucky with this year. They’ll travel to Oklahoma in out-of-conference play and then deal with Iowa, Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, and Ohio State in Big 10 play as well.#14 Penn State: Properly Rated Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) reaches for the ball as he attempts to block a punt in the first half of an NCAA football game against Nevada, Saturday, August 30, 2025, in State College, Pa.    For all of James Franklin’s faults, he was always able to recruit above his weight class at Penn State. Matt Campbell might be stronger come gameday, but this is one of the least talented iterations of Penn State football we’ve seen in years. I would consider the Nittany Lions overrated, but they have one of the easiest power conference schedules. They’ll likely be favored in 9-10 games this year, and Iowa State transfer Rocco Becht should be able to handle most of the bottom-tier teams in the Big 10.#16 Washington: UnderratedIf Washington recovers from the Demond Williams Jr. NIL nightmare, this will be the most fun team to watch in the conference. Last season, Washington’s defense was young and underrated, but now they’re experienced and ready to run. They’ll return 10 impact starters and could quietly be one of the better units in the conference. Jonah Coleman and Denzel Boston will be tough to replace on offense, but I think breakout receiver Dezman Roebuck can provide enough support for Williams and this offense. Washington will be in the fight for a playoff spot this year.#19 Iowa: Overrated Iowa tight end Addison Ostrenga (87) runs for extra yards after a catch during the Hawkeyes’ final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.   Iowa’s offense looked competent at points last season, which is an upgrade from previous years. They were close to being a top-50 scoring offense last year, but I think they’re going to slide a decent bit, and they also shouldn’t have an elite defense to bail them out either. Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown are the least exciting QB competition in the country, and they’ll both be stuck behind a very inexperienced offensive line. Kamari Moulton and South Dakota transfer L.J. Phillips are an exceedingly talented backfield for Iowa, but I don’t trust their offensive front enough. The schedule is pretty light for Iowa, so Kirk Ferentz will probably find a way to get 9 wins again and make me look stupid.#20 USC: UnderratedThere is no universe in which USC finishes as the 8th-place team in the Big 10. If they aren’t making a serious playoff push this year, it might be the last we see from Lincoln Riley in Southern California. Riley has struggled to field a competent defense at USC, but bringing in former TCU head coach Gary Patterson was a wonderful move. They crushed the portal on defense, and play calling should be out of Riley’s hands, hopefully leading to big improvements. Jayden Maiava might struggle early on, throwing to an entirely new receiving core, but I still expect him to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country. I feel the USC is a dark horse playoff contender and will have a shot at playing in the Big 10 championship this year as well.   #Big #Preseason #Rankings #Teams #Overrated #Underrated #Deadspin.comOregon quarterback Dante Moore walks off the field following the Oregon Ducks annual spring game on April 25, 2026 at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.

After winning their third straight national title, the Big 10 rightfully sits atop the throne of college football. With that success come expectations, and this year will be no different. Eight different Big 10 teams will start the year in the preseason top 25, tying the SEC for the most in the nation.

As the SEC has been viewed in the past, success has led to more teams being overrated in the Big 10. Here are the teams in the preseason top 25, and whether I feel they’re overrated, underrated, or properly rated.

#1 Ohio State: Properly Rated

When your roster has Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson, and most importantly, Jeremiah Smith, you’re going to be one of the best offenses in the country. Ohio State’s defense will be much more of a question mark this year, with most of that unit now playing on Sundays, but I trust Matt Patricia to get them up to speed. The Buckeyes are my pick to win the national title, so I think they’re properly rated.

#2 Oregon: Overrated

Dante Moore has all the tools to be a great talent in the NFL, but I’m just not sold on him at Oregon. More importantly, I hate the moves that Oregon made at coordinator this offseason. Will Stein and Tosh Lupoi were two of the hottest names in this past coaching carousel, and I believe their losses will be drastically missed. Oregon might end up in the playoffs; I just think they’re slightly overrated right now.

#6 Indiana: Underrated

Jul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn ImagesJul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

If Josh Hoover can provide consistent quarterback play, the Hoosiers can easily win back-to-back national championships. Indiana lost playmakers on defense to the draft, but still brought key pieces to the defense in Tyrique Tucker, Rolijah Hardy, and Isaiah Jones. Coach Curt Cignetti also brings in the number-one portal class and has proven he can get the most out of these guys during his first two years in Bloomington. There’s no reason Indiana can’t win a national title again in 2027.

#13 Michigan: Overrated

Last season’s Michigan team was far worse than their record showed, and they’re even less talented this season. The Wolverines are severely lacking size in the trenches, and Bryce Underwood doesn’t have playmakers around him. Even if Underwood had Julian Sayin’s resources, I still don’t think he’s a top-half quarterback in the conference. Most importantly, Michigan lucked into a very favorable conference schedule, something they won’t be as lucky with this year. They’ll travel to Oklahoma in out-of-conference play and then deal with Iowa, Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, and Ohio State in Big 10 play as well.

#14 Penn State: Properly Rated


Penn State's Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) reaches for the ball as he attempts to block a punt in the first half of an NCAA football game against Nevada, Saturday, August 30, 2025, in State College, Pa.Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) reaches for the ball as he attempts to block a punt in the first half of an NCAA football game against Nevada, Saturday, August 30, 2025, in State College, Pa.

For all of James Franklin’s faults, he was always able to recruit above his weight class at Penn State. Matt Campbell might be stronger come gameday, but this is one of the least talented iterations of Penn State football we’ve seen in years. I would consider the Nittany Lions overrated, but they have one of the easiest power conference schedules. They’ll likely be favored in 9-10 games this year, and Iowa State transfer Rocco Becht should be able to handle most of the bottom-tier teams in the Big 10.

#16 Washington: Underrated

If Washington recovers from the Demond Williams Jr. NIL nightmare, this will be the most fun team to watch in the conference. Last season, Washington’s defense was young and underrated, but now they’re experienced and ready to run. They’ll return 10 impact starters and could quietly be one of the better units in the conference. Jonah Coleman and Denzel Boston will be tough to replace on offense, but I think breakout receiver Dezman Roebuck can provide enough support for Williams and this offense. Washington will be in the fight for a playoff spot this year.

#19 Iowa: Overrated

Iowa tight end Addison Ostrenga (87) runs for extra yards after a catch during the Hawkeyes' final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.Iowa tight end Addison Ostrenga (87) runs for extra yards after a catch during the Hawkeyes’ final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa’s offense looked competent at points last season, which is an upgrade from previous years. They were close to being a top-50 scoring offense last year, but I think they’re going to slide a decent bit, and they also shouldn’t have an elite defense to bail them out either. Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown are the least exciting QB competition in the country, and they’ll both be stuck behind a very inexperienced offensive line. Kamari Moulton and South Dakota transfer L.J. Phillips are an exceedingly talented backfield for Iowa, but I don’t trust their offensive front enough. The schedule is pretty light for Iowa, so Kirk Ferentz will probably find a way to get 9 wins again and make me look stupid.

#20 USC: Underrated

There is no universe in which USC finishes as the 8th-place team in the Big 10. If they aren’t making a serious playoff push this year, it might be the last we see from Lincoln Riley in Southern California. Riley has struggled to field a competent defense at USC, but bringing in former TCU head coach Gary Patterson was a wonderful move. They crushed the portal on defense, and play calling should be out of Riley’s hands, hopefully leading to big improvements. Jayden Maiava might struggle early on, throwing to an entirely new receiving core, but I still expect him to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country. I feel the USC is a dark horse playoff contender and will have a shot at playing in the Big 10 championship this year as well.

#Big #Preseason #Rankings #Teams #Overrated #Underrated #Deadspin.com

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore walks off the field following the Oregon Ducks annual spring game…

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The Los Angeles Sparks are 10-17, and as such, star guard Kelsey Plum could be…

​​Rohit Yadav, Yash Vir Singh

3:20 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon Long Jump – Tejaswin Shankar

4:55 p.m. – Men’s Triple Jump Qualifying Round – Selva Prabhu Thirumaran, Praveen Chithravel

5:10 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon Shot Put – Tejaswin Shankar

5:40 p.m. – Men’s 400m semifinals – Vishal TK (Semifinal 1)

11:30 p.m. – Men’s Shot Put final (medal event) – Tajinderpal Singh Toor, Samardeep Singh Gill

11:37 p.m. – Men’s 200m semifinals – Animesh Kujur (Semifinal 2)

11:38 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon High Jump – Tejaswin Shankar

1:10 a.m. (July 31) – Women’s Discus Throw final (medal event) – Nidhi Rani, Seema

1:30 a.m. (July 31) – Men’s Decathlon 400m – Tejaswin Shankar

1:48 a.m. (July 31) – Women’s 5000m final (medal event) – Parul Chaudhary

TRACK CYCLING AND PARA TRACK CYCLING

4:06 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Qualifying – Lisha Das

5:07 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Qualifying – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam)

9:44 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Finals (Bronze) – Lisha Das (Subject to qualification)

9:51 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Finals (Gold) – Lisha Das (Subject to qualification)

10:50 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Finals (Bronze) – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam) (Subject to qualification)

10:55 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Finals (Gold) – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam) (Subject to qualification)

WEIGHTLIFTING

6:30 p.m. – Women’s +86kg final (medal event) – Martina Devi Maibam

11 p.m. – Men’s +110kg final (medal event) – Lovepreet Singh

BOWLS

7:30 p.m. – Men’s Pairs Sectional Play, Section B Round 3 – India (Navneet Singh and Dinesh Kumar) vs Botswana (Kaizer Geche and Charles Diteko)

8:55 p.m. – Women’s Singles Sectional Play, Section C Round 3 – Nayanmoni Saikia vs Emma Firyana Saroji (Malaysia)

#CWG #Glasgow #LIVE #Updates #Day #Weightlifter #Lovepreet #wins #silver #110kg #Tajinder #Samardeep #fail #win #medal #shot #put"> CWG 2026 Glasgow LIVE Updates, Day 8: Weightlifter Lovepreet wins silver in +110kg; Tajinder, Samardeep fail to win medal in shot put  Pinning this here to help you keep a track on the goings-on at Glasgow:ATHLETICS AND PARA ATHLETICS2:40 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon 100m – Tejaswin Shankar2:55 p.m. – Men’s Javelin Throw Qualifying Round – ​​Neeraj Chopra, ​​Rohit Yadav, Yash Vir Singh3:20 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon Long Jump – Tejaswin Shankar4:55 p.m. – Men’s Triple Jump Qualifying Round – Selva Prabhu Thirumaran, Praveen Chithravel5:10 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon Shot Put – Tejaswin Shankar5:40 p.m. – Men’s 400m semifinals – Vishal TK (Semifinal 1)11:30 p.m. – Men’s Shot Put final (medal event) – Tajinderpal Singh Toor, Samardeep Singh Gill11:37 p.m. – Men’s 200m semifinals – Animesh Kujur (Semifinal 2)11:38 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon High Jump – Tejaswin Shankar1:10 a.m. (July 31) – Women’s Discus Throw final (medal event) – Nidhi Rani, Seema1:30 a.m. (July 31) – Men’s Decathlon 400m – Tejaswin Shankar1:48 a.m. (July 31) – Women’s 5000m final (medal event) – Parul ChaudharyTRACK CYCLING AND PARA TRACK CYCLING4:06 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Qualifying – Lisha Das5:07 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Qualifying – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam)9:44 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Finals (Bronze) – Lisha Das (Subject to qualification)9:51 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Finals (Gold) – Lisha Das (Subject to qualification)10:50 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Finals (Bronze) – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam) (Subject to qualification)10:55 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Finals (Gold) – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam) (Subject to qualification)WEIGHTLIFTING6:30 p.m. – Women’s +86kg final (medal event) – Martina Devi Maibam11 p.m. – Men’s +110kg final (medal event) – Lovepreet SinghBOWLS7:30 p.m. – Men’s Pairs Sectional Play, Section B Round 3 – India (Navneet Singh and Dinesh Kumar) vs Botswana (Kaizer Geche and Charles Diteko)8:55 p.m. – Women’s Singles Sectional Play, Section C Round 3 – Nayanmoni Saikia vs Emma Firyana Saroji (Malaysia)  #CWG #Glasgow #LIVE #Updates #Day #Weightlifter #Lovepreet #wins #silver #110kg #Tajinder #Samardeep #fail #win #medal #shot #put
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​​Rohit Yadav, Yash Vir Singh

3:20 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon Long Jump – Tejaswin Shankar

4:55 p.m. – Men’s Triple Jump Qualifying Round – Selva Prabhu Thirumaran, Praveen Chithravel

5:10 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon Shot Put – Tejaswin Shankar

5:40 p.m. – Men’s 400m semifinals – Vishal TK (Semifinal 1)

11:30 p.m. – Men’s Shot Put final (medal event) – Tajinderpal Singh Toor, Samardeep Singh Gill

11:37 p.m. – Men’s 200m semifinals – Animesh Kujur (Semifinal 2)

11:38 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon High Jump – Tejaswin Shankar

1:10 a.m. (July 31) – Women’s Discus Throw final (medal event) – Nidhi Rani, Seema

1:30 a.m. (July 31) – Men’s Decathlon 400m – Tejaswin Shankar

1:48 a.m. (July 31) – Women’s 5000m final (medal event) – Parul Chaudhary

TRACK CYCLING AND PARA TRACK CYCLING

4:06 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Qualifying – Lisha Das

5:07 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Qualifying – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam)

9:44 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Finals (Bronze) – Lisha Das (Subject to qualification)

9:51 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Finals (Gold) – Lisha Das (Subject to qualification)

10:50 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Finals (Bronze) – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam) (Subject to qualification)

10:55 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Finals (Gold) – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam) (Subject to qualification)

WEIGHTLIFTING

6:30 p.m. – Women’s +86kg final (medal event) – Martina Devi Maibam

11 p.m. – Men’s +110kg final (medal event) – Lovepreet Singh

BOWLS

7:30 p.m. – Men’s Pairs Sectional Play, Section B Round 3 – India (Navneet Singh and Dinesh Kumar) vs Botswana (Kaizer Geche and Charles Diteko)

8:55 p.m. – Women’s Singles Sectional Play, Section C Round 3 – Nayanmoni Saikia vs Emma Firyana Saroji (Malaysia)

#CWG #Glasgow #LIVE #Updates #Day #Weightlifter #Lovepreet #wins #silver #110kg #Tajinder #Samardeep #fail #win #medal #shot #put">CWG 2026 Glasgow LIVE Updates, Day 8: Weightlifter Lovepreet wins silver in +110kg; Tajinder, Samardeep fail to win medal in shot put

Pinning this here to help you keep a track on the goings-on at Glasgow:

ATHLETICS AND PARA ATHLETICS

2:40 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon 100m – Tejaswin Shankar

2:55 p.m. – Men’s Javelin Throw Qualifying Round – ​​Neeraj Chopra, ​​Rohit Yadav, Yash Vir Singh

3:20 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon Long Jump – Tejaswin Shankar

4:55 p.m. – Men’s Triple Jump Qualifying Round – Selva Prabhu Thirumaran, Praveen Chithravel

5:10 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon Shot Put – Tejaswin Shankar

5:40 p.m. – Men’s 400m semifinals – Vishal TK (Semifinal 1)

11:30 p.m. – Men’s Shot Put final (medal event) – Tajinderpal Singh Toor, Samardeep Singh Gill

11:37 p.m. – Men’s 200m semifinals – Animesh Kujur (Semifinal 2)

11:38 p.m. – Men’s Decathlon High Jump – Tejaswin Shankar

1:10 a.m. (July 31) – Women’s Discus Throw final (medal event) – Nidhi Rani, Seema

1:30 a.m. (July 31) – Men’s Decathlon 400m – Tejaswin Shankar

1:48 a.m. (July 31) – Women’s 5000m final (medal event) – Parul Chaudhary

TRACK CYCLING AND PARA TRACK CYCLING

4:06 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Qualifying – Lisha Das

5:07 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Qualifying – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam)

9:44 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Finals (Bronze) – Lisha Das (Subject to qualification)

9:51 p.m. – Women’s C4-C5 4000m Individual Pursuit Finals (Gold) – Lisha Das (Subject to qualification)

10:50 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Finals (Bronze) – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam) (Subject to qualification)

10:55 p.m. – Men’s Team Sprint Finals (Gold) – India (David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, Rojit Singh Yanglem, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam) (Subject to qualification)

WEIGHTLIFTING

6:30 p.m. – Women’s +86kg final (medal event) – Martina Devi Maibam

11 p.m. – Men’s +110kg final (medal event) – Lovepreet Singh

BOWLS

7:30 p.m. – Men’s Pairs Sectional Play, Section B Round 3 – India (Navneet Singh and Dinesh Kumar) vs Botswana (Kaizer Geche and Charles Diteko)

8:55 p.m. – Women’s Singles Sectional Play, Section C Round 3 – Nayanmoni Saikia vs Emma Firyana Saroji (Malaysia)

#CWG #Glasgow #LIVE #Updates #Day #Weightlifter #Lovepreet #wins #silver #110kg #Tajinder #Samardeep #fail #win #medal #shot #put

Pinning this here to help you keep a track on the goings-on at Glasgow:ATHLETICS AND…

Sports news

Jul 10, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Sonny…

reported on Tuesday that the Marlins are also open to trading C/OF/DH Liam Hicks, due in large part to the emergence of young catcher Joe Mack.

Speaking of Mack, the rookie catcher is one of a few Marlins that are reportedly off limits, including pitchers Sandy Alcantara, Max Meyer, and Eury Pérez.

The Minnesota Twins are one game above .500, with the MLB Trade Deadline fast approaching.

But unlike the Marlins, who were 8.5 games out of first place in the division on Thursday morning, the Twins sit just three games out of first in the AL Central, and just 1.5 games behind the second-place Cleveland Guardians in both the division and the Wild Card chase.

Given that, the Twins are officially buyers at the deadline, according to general manager Jeremy Zoll. In a story on The Athletic filed on Tuesday night, Zoll made the case for Minnesota, and highlighted an improved bullpen as a focus at the deadline.

“All along, we were optimistic we were going to be in this spot to be able to add,” Zoll said. “We’re active on the phones and in touch across the board in trying to do everything we can to find ways to improve the team.”

Zoll also indicated that the recent play from Minnesota — the Twins entered Wednesday on a three-game winning streak — made the decision easier.

“We’re really excited about how the team has played over this last stretch,” Zoll said. “We’re really encouraged about that. In turn, we’re going to use this next stretch to do everything we can to find ways to improve the club and continue to execute on that goal and make it a reality.”

Catching market heating up

Pitching is always a focus at the MLB Trade Deadline, and a potential deal involving Tarik Skubal is at the front of many shopping lists around the league.

But catching has become a focus for several teams looking to bolster their playoff chances, according to a report from Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. According to the long-time MLB insider six teams — the Red Sox, the Yankees, the Rays, the White Sox, the Rangers, and the Dodgers — could be looking for help behind the plate.

One problem, according to one source?

There might not be enough good catchers to go around.

“There are about a half-dozen teams looking for catching help,” one NL executive said to Feinsand. “There just aren’t a half-dozen catchers out there to trade for.”

As noted in Feinsand’s report, the name most often mentioned is that of Ryan Jeffers, who is on an expiring contract. But as mentioned above, the Twins are looking to buy, not sell, at the deadline, which could complicate such a move. Other options include Hunter Goodman with the Colorado Rockies — but he is under club control for the next three years, which increases the asking price dramatically — and Adley Rutschman, although moving him from Baltimore would mean the Orioles would “concede” the AL Wild Card race, where Baltimore sits just 2.5 games off the pace.
Then there is Liam Hicks, who the Marlins are reportedly open to trading given the emergence of Joe Mack. While he has four more years of club control, Mack’s development coupled with the growth of Triple-A catcher Agustín Ramirez makes moving Hicks easier for Miami.

Boston looking for SS help

Red Sox fans were ready to write off the season back in June, after losing two-out-of-three to Colorado dropped Boston to 32-46, and 15.5 games out in the division.

But a 15-game winning streak changed everything, and with a win Wednesday night against the Athletics, the Red Sox are now five games above .500, just seven back in the AL East, and if the playoffs were to begin today, Boston would be in as a Wild Card team.

That rapid turnaround has seen the Red Sox emerge as buyers at the MLB Trade Deadline and they already made one move, acquiring infielder Curtis Mead in a deal with the Washington Nationals. But he was hit by a pitch in his Boston debut, and is headed to the IL with a broken wrist.

Zach Neto is a popular name linked to Boston, but the Los Angeles Angels might be reluctant to move the 25-year-old infielder who is under team control for the next three-plus seasons. Other options include Houston’s Jeremy Peña, Miami’s Otto Lopez, and perhaps another deal with Washington for CJ Abrams.

The latest on Tarik Skubal

The Detroit Tigers ace took the bump on Wednesday for his last start ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline.

Will it be his final start for the Tigers?

Detroit is in a fascinating position. At the moment the Tigers are just 4.5 games out of the final AL Wild Card spot, and having an ace like Skubal down the stretch could ease a playoff push.

But with Skubal set to hit free agency — and expected to look for a contract in the $400 million range this offseason — the Tigers might look to get something in return for him now, rather than see him walk in free agency.

It is a decision that could shape not just Detroit, but all of baseball, for the future.

MLB.com put together a roundtable with Mark Feinsand, Tigers beat writer Jason Beck, and several other beat writers for teams that could put together an offer for the ace. According to Beck, Detroit would prioritize young arms in any such deal. “[The] Tigers will look for young pitching in pretty much any deal. They have good young arms in Troy Melton, Jackson Jobe, Reese Olson and Ty Madden, but their farm system is thin on projectable starting pitchers,” wrote Beck.

The most intriguing team, at least according to this writer, is Milwaukee. As noted by Brewers beat writer Adam McCalvy, while Milwaukee is one of those teams that “must stockpile prospects, especially position player prospects, in order to contend year after year” the Brewers are “very interested” in Skubal.

Pairing Skubal with Jacob Misiorowski would give Milwaukee one heck of a one-two combination at the top of the rotation down the stretch, and into the playoffs.

It is worth noting that Skubal notched his 1,000th career strikeout on Wednesday, so if it was indeed his last outing for the Tigers, he will go out in style.

#MLB #trade #rumors #Twins #Red #Sox #Tarik #Skubal #ahead #Mondays #deadline"> MLB trade rumors on Twins, Red Sox, Tarik Skubal, and more ahead of Monday’s deadline  The 2026 MLB Trade Deadline is just a few days away.And the rumors are heating up.The Deadline arrives at 6:00 p.m. Eastern on Monday, August 3, but we are already seeing some deals being made, including one between the surging Boston Red Sox and the Washington Nationals. Let’s take our first look at the MLB rumor mill as we get ready for this year’s MLB Trade Deadline.Marlins open to offers on “several” playersWhile the Miami Marlins finished seven games above .500 in the first half of the season, they lost the final three games before the All-Star Break, and with eight losses to open the second half, that 12 game losing streak has dropped the Marlins down the NL East standings. Wins the past few nights have moved them back above .500 on the year, but Miami could be creative sellers at the deadline.Or at least entertain offers on cost-controlled players over these next few days.Bats remain the major options. According to The Athletic the Marlins will at least “listen” to offers on controllable bats, including shortstop Otto Lopez, 2B Xavier Edwards, and OF Heriberto Hernández. Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported on Tuesday that the Marlins are also open to trading C/OF/DH Liam Hicks, due in large part to the emergence of young catcher Joe Mack.Speaking of Mack, the rookie catcher is one of a few Marlins that are reportedly off limits, including pitchers Sandy Alcantara, Max Meyer, and Eury Pérez.The Minnesota Twins are one game above .500, with the MLB Trade Deadline fast approaching.But unlike the Marlins, who were 8.5 games out of first place in the division on Thursday morning, the Twins sit just three games out of first in the AL Central, and just 1.5 games behind the second-place Cleveland Guardians in both the division and the Wild Card chase.Given that, the Twins are officially buyers at the deadline, according to general manager Jeremy Zoll. In a story on The Athletic filed on Tuesday night, Zoll made the case for Minnesota, and highlighted an improved bullpen as a focus at the deadline.“All along, we were optimistic we were going to be in this spot to be able to add,” Zoll said. “We’re active on the phones and in touch across the board in trying to do everything we can to find ways to improve the team.”Zoll also indicated that the recent play from Minnesota — the Twins entered Wednesday on a three-game winning streak — made the decision easier.“We’re really excited about how the team has played over this last stretch,” Zoll said. “We’re really encouraged about that. In turn, we’re going to use this next stretch to do everything we can to find ways to improve the club and continue to execute on that goal and make it a reality.”Catching market heating upPitching is always a focus at the MLB Trade Deadline, and a potential deal involving Tarik Skubal is at the front of many shopping lists around the league.But catching has become a focus for several teams looking to bolster their playoff chances, according to a report from Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. According to the long-time MLB insider six teams — the Red Sox, the Yankees, the Rays, the White Sox, the Rangers, and the Dodgers — could be looking for help behind the plate.One problem, according to one source?There might not be enough good catchers to go around.“There are about a half-dozen teams looking for catching help,” one NL executive said to Feinsand. “There just aren’t a half-dozen catchers out there to trade for.”As noted in Feinsand’s report, the name most often mentioned is that of Ryan Jeffers, who is on an expiring contract. But as mentioned above, the Twins are looking to buy, not sell, at the deadline, which could complicate such a move. Other options include Hunter Goodman with the Colorado Rockies — but he is under club control for the next three years, which increases the asking price dramatically — and Adley Rutschman, although moving him from Baltimore would mean the Orioles would “concede” the AL Wild Card race, where Baltimore sits just 2.5 games off the pace.Then there is Liam Hicks, who the Marlins are reportedly open to trading given the emergence of Joe Mack. While he has four more years of club control, Mack’s development coupled with the growth of Triple-A catcher Agustín Ramirez makes moving Hicks easier for Miami.Boston looking for SS helpRed Sox fans were ready to write off the season back in June, after losing two-out-of-three to Colorado dropped Boston to 32-46, and 15.5 games out in the division.But a 15-game winning streak changed everything, and with a win Wednesday night against the Athletics, the Red Sox are now five games above .500, just seven back in the AL East, and if the playoffs were to begin today, Boston would be in as a Wild Card team.That rapid turnaround has seen the Red Sox emerge as buyers at the MLB Trade Deadline and they already made one move, acquiring infielder Curtis Mead in a deal with the Washington Nationals. But he was hit by a pitch in his Boston debut, and is headed to the IL with a broken wrist.Zach Neto is a popular name linked to Boston, but the Los Angeles Angels might be reluctant to move the 25-year-old infielder who is under team control for the next three-plus seasons. Other options include Houston’s Jeremy Peña, Miami’s Otto Lopez, and perhaps another deal with Washington for CJ Abrams.The latest on Tarik SkubalThe Detroit Tigers ace took the bump on Wednesday for his last start ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline.Will it be his final start for the Tigers?Detroit is in a fascinating position. At the moment the Tigers are just 4.5 games out of the final AL Wild Card spot, and having an ace like Skubal down the stretch could ease a playoff push.But with Skubal set to hit free agency — and expected to look for a contract in the $400 million range this offseason — the Tigers might look to get something in return for him now, rather than see him walk in free agency.It is a decision that could shape not just Detroit, but all of baseball, for the future.MLB.com put together a roundtable with Mark Feinsand, Tigers beat writer Jason Beck, and several other beat writers for teams that could put together an offer for the ace. According to Beck, Detroit would prioritize young arms in any such deal. “[The] Tigers will look for young pitching in pretty much any deal. They have good young arms in Troy Melton, Jackson Jobe, Reese Olson and Ty Madden, but their farm system is thin on projectable starting pitchers,” wrote Beck.The most intriguing team, at least according to this writer, is Milwaukee. As noted by Brewers beat writer Adam McCalvy, while Milwaukee is one of those teams that “must stockpile prospects, especially position player prospects, in order to contend year after year” the Brewers are “very interested” in Skubal.Pairing Skubal with Jacob Misiorowski would give Milwaukee one heck of a one-two combination at the top of the rotation down the stretch, and into the playoffs.It is worth noting that Skubal notched his 1,000th career strikeout on Wednesday, so if it was indeed his last outing for the Tigers, he will go out in style.  #MLB #trade #rumors #Twins #Red #Sox #Tarik #Skubal #ahead #Mondays #deadline
Sports news

reported on Tuesday that the Marlins are also open to trading C/OF/DH Liam Hicks, due in large part to the emergence of young catcher Joe Mack.

Speaking of Mack, the rookie catcher is one of a few Marlins that are reportedly off limits, including pitchers Sandy Alcantara, Max Meyer, and Eury Pérez.

The Minnesota Twins are one game above .500, with the MLB Trade Deadline fast approaching.

But unlike the Marlins, who were 8.5 games out of first place in the division on Thursday morning, the Twins sit just three games out of first in the AL Central, and just 1.5 games behind the second-place Cleveland Guardians in both the division and the Wild Card chase.

Given that, the Twins are officially buyers at the deadline, according to general manager Jeremy Zoll. In a story on The Athletic filed on Tuesday night, Zoll made the case for Minnesota, and highlighted an improved bullpen as a focus at the deadline.

“All along, we were optimistic we were going to be in this spot to be able to add,” Zoll said. “We’re active on the phones and in touch across the board in trying to do everything we can to find ways to improve the team.”

Zoll also indicated that the recent play from Minnesota — the Twins entered Wednesday on a three-game winning streak — made the decision easier.

“We’re really excited about how the team has played over this last stretch,” Zoll said. “We’re really encouraged about that. In turn, we’re going to use this next stretch to do everything we can to find ways to improve the club and continue to execute on that goal and make it a reality.”

Catching market heating up

Pitching is always a focus at the MLB Trade Deadline, and a potential deal involving Tarik Skubal is at the front of many shopping lists around the league.

But catching has become a focus for several teams looking to bolster their playoff chances, according to a report from Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. According to the long-time MLB insider six teams — the Red Sox, the Yankees, the Rays, the White Sox, the Rangers, and the Dodgers — could be looking for help behind the plate.

One problem, according to one source?

There might not be enough good catchers to go around.

“There are about a half-dozen teams looking for catching help,” one NL executive said to Feinsand. “There just aren’t a half-dozen catchers out there to trade for.”

As noted in Feinsand’s report, the name most often mentioned is that of Ryan Jeffers, who is on an expiring contract. But as mentioned above, the Twins are looking to buy, not sell, at the deadline, which could complicate such a move. Other options include Hunter Goodman with the Colorado Rockies — but he is under club control for the next three years, which increases the asking price dramatically — and Adley Rutschman, although moving him from Baltimore would mean the Orioles would “concede” the AL Wild Card race, where Baltimore sits just 2.5 games off the pace.
Then there is Liam Hicks, who the Marlins are reportedly open to trading given the emergence of Joe Mack. While he has four more years of club control, Mack’s development coupled with the growth of Triple-A catcher Agustín Ramirez makes moving Hicks easier for Miami.

Boston looking for SS help

Red Sox fans were ready to write off the season back in June, after losing two-out-of-three to Colorado dropped Boston to 32-46, and 15.5 games out in the division.

But a 15-game winning streak changed everything, and with a win Wednesday night against the Athletics, the Red Sox are now five games above .500, just seven back in the AL East, and if the playoffs were to begin today, Boston would be in as a Wild Card team.

That rapid turnaround has seen the Red Sox emerge as buyers at the MLB Trade Deadline and they already made one move, acquiring infielder Curtis Mead in a deal with the Washington Nationals. But he was hit by a pitch in his Boston debut, and is headed to the IL with a broken wrist.

Zach Neto is a popular name linked to Boston, but the Los Angeles Angels might be reluctant to move the 25-year-old infielder who is under team control for the next three-plus seasons. Other options include Houston’s Jeremy Peña, Miami’s Otto Lopez, and perhaps another deal with Washington for CJ Abrams.

The latest on Tarik Skubal

The Detroit Tigers ace took the bump on Wednesday for his last start ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline.

Will it be his final start for the Tigers?

Detroit is in a fascinating position. At the moment the Tigers are just 4.5 games out of the final AL Wild Card spot, and having an ace like Skubal down the stretch could ease a playoff push.

But with Skubal set to hit free agency — and expected to look for a contract in the $400 million range this offseason — the Tigers might look to get something in return for him now, rather than see him walk in free agency.

It is a decision that could shape not just Detroit, but all of baseball, for the future.

MLB.com put together a roundtable with Mark Feinsand, Tigers beat writer Jason Beck, and several other beat writers for teams that could put together an offer for the ace. According to Beck, Detroit would prioritize young arms in any such deal. “[The] Tigers will look for young pitching in pretty much any deal. They have good young arms in Troy Melton, Jackson Jobe, Reese Olson and Ty Madden, but their farm system is thin on projectable starting pitchers,” wrote Beck.

The most intriguing team, at least according to this writer, is Milwaukee. As noted by Brewers beat writer Adam McCalvy, while Milwaukee is one of those teams that “must stockpile prospects, especially position player prospects, in order to contend year after year” the Brewers are “very interested” in Skubal.

Pairing Skubal with Jacob Misiorowski would give Milwaukee one heck of a one-two combination at the top of the rotation down the stretch, and into the playoffs.

It is worth noting that Skubal notched his 1,000th career strikeout on Wednesday, so if it was indeed his last outing for the Tigers, he will go out in style.

#MLB #trade #rumors #Twins #Red #Sox #Tarik #Skubal #ahead #Mondays #deadline">MLB trade rumors on Twins, Red Sox, Tarik Skubal, and more ahead of Monday’s deadline

The 2026 MLB Trade Deadline is just a few days away.

And the rumors are heating up.

The Deadline arrives at 6:00 p.m. Eastern on Monday, August 3, but we are already seeing some deals being made, including one between the surging Boston Red Sox and the Washington Nationals. Let’s take our first look at the MLB rumor mill as we get ready for this year’s MLB Trade Deadline.

Marlins open to offers on “several” players

While the Miami Marlins finished seven games above .500 in the first half of the season, they lost the final three games before the All-Star Break, and with eight losses to open the second half, that 12 game losing streak has dropped the Marlins down the NL East standings. Wins the past few nights have moved them back above .500 on the year, but Miami could be creative sellers at the deadline.

Or at least entertain offers on cost-controlled players over these next few days.

Bats remain the major options. According to The Athletic the Marlins will at least “listen” to offers on controllable bats, including shortstop Otto Lopez, 2B Xavier Edwards, and OF Heriberto Hernández. Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported on Tuesday that the Marlins are also open to trading C/OF/DH Liam Hicks, due in large part to the emergence of young catcher Joe Mack.

Speaking of Mack, the rookie catcher is one of a few Marlins that are reportedly off limits, including pitchers Sandy Alcantara, Max Meyer, and Eury Pérez.

The Minnesota Twins are one game above .500, with the MLB Trade Deadline fast approaching.

But unlike the Marlins, who were 8.5 games out of first place in the division on Thursday morning, the Twins sit just three games out of first in the AL Central, and just 1.5 games behind the second-place Cleveland Guardians in both the division and the Wild Card chase.

Given that, the Twins are officially buyers at the deadline, according to general manager Jeremy Zoll. In a story on The Athletic filed on Tuesday night, Zoll made the case for Minnesota, and highlighted an improved bullpen as a focus at the deadline.

“All along, we were optimistic we were going to be in this spot to be able to add,” Zoll said. “We’re active on the phones and in touch across the board in trying to do everything we can to find ways to improve the team.”

Zoll also indicated that the recent play from Minnesota — the Twins entered Wednesday on a three-game winning streak — made the decision easier.

“We’re really excited about how the team has played over this last stretch,” Zoll said. “We’re really encouraged about that. In turn, we’re going to use this next stretch to do everything we can to find ways to improve the club and continue to execute on that goal and make it a reality.”

Catching market heating up

Pitching is always a focus at the MLB Trade Deadline, and a potential deal involving Tarik Skubal is at the front of many shopping lists around the league.

But catching has become a focus for several teams looking to bolster their playoff chances, according to a report from Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. According to the long-time MLB insider six teams — the Red Sox, the Yankees, the Rays, the White Sox, the Rangers, and the Dodgers — could be looking for help behind the plate.

One problem, according to one source?

There might not be enough good catchers to go around.

“There are about a half-dozen teams looking for catching help,” one NL executive said to Feinsand. “There just aren’t a half-dozen catchers out there to trade for.”

As noted in Feinsand’s report, the name most often mentioned is that of Ryan Jeffers, who is on an expiring contract. But as mentioned above, the Twins are looking to buy, not sell, at the deadline, which could complicate such a move. Other options include Hunter Goodman with the Colorado Rockies — but he is under club control for the next three years, which increases the asking price dramatically — and Adley Rutschman, although moving him from Baltimore would mean the Orioles would “concede” the AL Wild Card race, where Baltimore sits just 2.5 games off the pace.
Then there is Liam Hicks, who the Marlins are reportedly open to trading given the emergence of Joe Mack. While he has four more years of club control, Mack’s development coupled with the growth of Triple-A catcher Agustín Ramirez makes moving Hicks easier for Miami.

Boston looking for SS help

Red Sox fans were ready to write off the season back in June, after losing two-out-of-three to Colorado dropped Boston to 32-46, and 15.5 games out in the division.

But a 15-game winning streak changed everything, and with a win Wednesday night against the Athletics, the Red Sox are now five games above .500, just seven back in the AL East, and if the playoffs were to begin today, Boston would be in as a Wild Card team.

That rapid turnaround has seen the Red Sox emerge as buyers at the MLB Trade Deadline and they already made one move, acquiring infielder Curtis Mead in a deal with the Washington Nationals. But he was hit by a pitch in his Boston debut, and is headed to the IL with a broken wrist.

Zach Neto is a popular name linked to Boston, but the Los Angeles Angels might be reluctant to move the 25-year-old infielder who is under team control for the next three-plus seasons. Other options include Houston’s Jeremy Peña, Miami’s Otto Lopez, and perhaps another deal with Washington for CJ Abrams.

The latest on Tarik Skubal

The Detroit Tigers ace took the bump on Wednesday for his last start ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline.

Will it be his final start for the Tigers?

Detroit is in a fascinating position. At the moment the Tigers are just 4.5 games out of the final AL Wild Card spot, and having an ace like Skubal down the stretch could ease a playoff push.

But with Skubal set to hit free agency — and expected to look for a contract in the $400 million range this offseason — the Tigers might look to get something in return for him now, rather than see him walk in free agency.

It is a decision that could shape not just Detroit, but all of baseball, for the future.

MLB.com put together a roundtable with Mark Feinsand, Tigers beat writer Jason Beck, and several other beat writers for teams that could put together an offer for the ace. According to Beck, Detroit would prioritize young arms in any such deal. “[The] Tigers will look for young pitching in pretty much any deal. They have good young arms in Troy Melton, Jackson Jobe, Reese Olson and Ty Madden, but their farm system is thin on projectable starting pitchers,” wrote Beck.

The most intriguing team, at least according to this writer, is Milwaukee. As noted by Brewers beat writer Adam McCalvy, while Milwaukee is one of those teams that “must stockpile prospects, especially position player prospects, in order to contend year after year” the Brewers are “very interested” in Skubal.

Pairing Skubal with Jacob Misiorowski would give Milwaukee one heck of a one-two combination at the top of the rotation down the stretch, and into the playoffs.

It is worth noting that Skubal notched his 1,000th career strikeout on Wednesday, so if it was indeed his last outing for the Tigers, he will go out in style.

#MLB #trade #rumors #Twins #Red #Sox #Tarik #Skubal #ahead #Mondays #deadline

The 2026 MLB Trade Deadline is just a few days away.And the rumors are heating…