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Deadspin | Cade Cunningham, Daniss Jenkins power Pistons past Cavaliers

Deadspin | Cade Cunningham, Daniss Jenkins power Pistons past Cavaliers

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Jan 4, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) shoots over the defense of Cleveland Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill (5) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Cade Cunningham had 27 points, six rebounds and seven assists, and Daniss Jenkins scored 21 of his 25 points in the second quarter, giving the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons a 114-110 win over the host Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday afternoon.

Donovan Mitchell had 10 points in the fourth to pull Cleveland within 108-106, but was stripped by Isaiah Stewart in the frontcourt with 36 seconds remaining. Ausar Thompson tipped in a basket at the other end to make it 110-106 Detroit.

Two-way guard Jenkins then made four free throws in the final six seconds to ice the win for the Pistons, who had lost nine straight games in Cleveland and are 2-13 against their Central Division rival in the last 15 meetings.

Jenkins went 7-of-7 from the field, 6-of-6 on 3-point attempts and 1-of-1 from the foul line while playing all 12 minutes in the second, helping Detroit score a season-high 47 points and seize a 66-56 halftime lead.

The Pistons made all 21 of their free-throw attempts with Cunningham sinking 11. Duncan Robinson had 12 points and Javonte Green scored 11 off the bench as Detroit won for the second time in its last five contests.

Mitchell finished with 30 points — 23 in the second half — and fellow guard Darius Garland had 16 points and six assists. The Cavaliers had a three-game winning streak snapped and went 2-1 on their homestand.

Sam Merrill and Evan Mobley scored 15 points apiece for Cleveland, which trailed 106-93 with 4:41 left before Mitchell erupted for seven points in a 59-second span. Garland made a jumper to get the Cavaliers within two with 1:156 on the clock.

Merrill had nine points on three 3-pointers as Cleveland built a 28-19 advantage in the first. Jenkins’ second quarter barrage put the Pistons ahead for good.

Pistons center Jalen Duren (right ankle sprain), power forward Tobias Harris (left hip sprain) and shooting guard Caris LeVert (left knee inflammation) did not travel to Cleveland and are out indefinitely.

Duren, who is averaging 17.9 points and 10.6 rebounds, will have his status updated in a week and Harris will be re-evaluated in two weeks.

Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (illness) and power forward Dean Wade (left knee bruise) were pregame scratches, moving Merrill into the starting lineup.

–Field Level Media

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Deadspin | MLB roundup: Cubs score 7, win 7th straight as Phils’ skid hits 7 Apr 21, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki (27) runs the bases after hitting a home run against the Philadelphia Phillies during the seventh inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images Shota Imanaga tossed seven stellar innings, Seiya Suzuki and Michael Busch each drove in two runs and the streaking Chicago Cubs posted a 7-4 victory over the visiting Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday. Imanaga (2-1) allowed just one run on three hits, striking out one and walking one for the Cubs, who won their major-league-leading seventh straight game. Suzuki and Nico Hoerner each homered in the win. Jesus Luzardo threw 4 2/3 innings for the Phillies, surrendering one run on five hits, walking four and striking out three. Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber both homered for the Phillies, who saw their losing streak extend to seven. Tanner Banks (0-1) replaced Kerkering in the sixth in a 1-1 game. Hoerner led off the frame with a single and advanced to third on Happ’s one-out hit. After Kelly’s two-out walk loaded the bases, Busch drove in a pair with a single. In the seventh, Hoerner launched a one-out solo homer to push the lead to 4-1. After Alex Bregman’s walk, Suzuki hit his first homer of the season — a 441-footer. Yankees 4, Red Sox 0 Giancarlo Stanton hit a solo home run and collected three RBIs as New York opened a three-game series with a road victory over Boston. Stanton’s home run came against Boston starter Connelly Early. He added a two-run double in the sixth. Stanton, Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Randal Grichuk each had two hits for the Yankees, who have won five of their last six. Luis Gil (1-1) pitched into the seventh to earn the win. Early (1-1) was pulled with one out in the sixth. He gave up three runs on five hits and struck out four. Held to four hits, the Red Sox have scored three runs or fewer in 12 of their 23 games. Boston has allowed at least four runs in 13 of those 23 contests. Giants 3, Dodgers 1 Landen Roupp outpitched Yoshinobu Yamamoto and San Francisco got RBI singles from Rafael Devers and Jung Hoo Lee in a three-run first inning, then held off visiting Los Angeles in the opener of a three-game series. Roupp (4-1) allowed just one run on one hit in five innings, then watched five relievers combine for four scoreless innings, helping the Giants open a six-game homestand with a win. Roupp struck out seven and walked five in his first career win over the Dodgers. Seeking his first-ever victory over the Giants, Yamamoto (2-2) went seven innings, allowing six hits and three runs, all of which scored in the first. He walked two and fanned seven. Nationals 11, Braves 4 Luis Garcia Jr. had four hits and drove in three runs, Curtis Mead socked a three-run homer and host Washington ended Atlanta’s six-game winning streak. James Wood hit his eighth homer of the season, walked four times and scored three runs for Washington, which leveled the four-game series at one victory apiece. Starter Foster Griffin (3-0) allowed three runs on five hits over six solid innings. Drake Baldwin and Eli White homered for the Braves and Mauricio Dubon had two hits. Starter Reynaldo Lopez (1-1) allowed four runs in one-plus inning and gave up five hits and three walks while fanning one. Braves pitchers issued 12 walks. Reds 12, Rays 6 Elly De La Cruz recorded his sixth career multi-homer game and drove in five runs, fueling Cincinnati to a victory over Tampa Bay in St. Petersburg, Fla. De La Cruz launched a two-run blast in the first inning and a solo shot in the ninth. De La Cruz also had a fielder’s choice in a four-run sixth and an RBI single in the seventh. Ke’Bryan Hayes and Dane Myers launched back-to-back homers in the second and Spencer Steer added a solo shot in the fifth in Cincinnati’s fifth straight win. Chase Burns (2-1) allowed two runs on four hits and struck out eight in 5 2/3 innings. His lone blemish was Jonathan Aranda’s two-run homer in the sixth. Jonny DeLuca had a two-run double in the ninth inning for Tampa Bay, which has been outscored 24-10 during its three-game losing streak. Twins 5, Mets 3 Luke Keaschall’s second RBI single of the game snapped a ninth-inning tie and helped visiting Minnesota rally past slumping New York. In losing its 12th straight game, New York coughed up a 3-0 lead as closer Devin Williams melted down during the top of the ninth. Williams (0-1) didn’t retire any of the five hitters he faced, walking three. Francisco Lindor hit a two-run homer in the Mets’ three-run third inning. Minnesota’s bullpen retired all 12 hitters it faced. Cole Sands (1-1) pitched the last two innings to earn the win, fanning Tyrone Taylor for the last out. Byron Buxton hit a two-run shot to get the Twins on the board in the sixth. White Sox 11, Diamondbacks 5 Rookie Munetaka Murakami homered for the fourth straight game, Colson Montgomery went deep for the third straight and Chicago slugged four homers in a rout of Arizona at Phoenix . Murakami, Michael Vargas and Montgomery hit consecutive solo shots in the second inning to help stake Sean Burke (1-2) to a 7-0 lead. Burke gave up two runs on five hits in six innings. Sam Antonacci’s first career homer was two-run inside-the-park job in the ninth. Ildemaro Vargas hit a three-run homer in the ninth for the Diamondbacks, extending his season-opening hitting streak to 16 games. Merrill Kelly (1-1) was tagged for eight runs and 10 hits in 4 1/3 innings. Cardinals 5, Marlins 3 Nathan Church slugged a two-run homer and Alec Burleson also drove in a pair of runs as visiting St. Louis defeated Miami. St. Louis, which has won six of its past seven games, also got 5 1/3 strong innings from Dustin May (3-2). Riley O’Brien pitched a scoreless ninth inning to earn his seventh save. Cardinals star Jordan Walker had his 15-game hitting streak broken. Miami was led by Jakob Marsee, who finished 3-for-4, including a homer leading off the bottom of the first. Marlins starter Chris Paddack (0-4) struck out seven but gave up five runs on eight hits and a walk in 4 2/3 innings. Guardians 8, Astros 5 Rookie Chase DeLauter delivered a go-ahead three-run triple and Kyle Manzardo added a two-RBI single in a six-run eighth inning, rallying Cleveland to a victory over visiting Houston. DeLauter’s sinking liner toward the foul line in left dropped just in front of Brice Matthews, who was attempting to make a sliding grab. Angel Martinez, Brayan Rocchio and Steven Kwan came around to put Cleveland ahead 6-4. Rule 5 Draft selection Peyton Pallette (1-1) tossed a scoreless eighth for his first career win. Closer Cade Smith gave up an RBI single in the ninth to major league homer and RBI leader Yordan Alvarez in a non-save situation. Alvarez drove in three runs and had two hits for the Astros, who have split the first two games of the series. Brewers 12, Tigers 4 Brice Turang drove in four runs and Milwaukee opened its three-game series at Detroit by pounding the Tigers. William Contreras had two hits, drove in two runs and scored another for the Brewers. David Hamilton supplied four hits and scored twice, while Sal Frelick, Luis Rengifo and Blake Perkins each scored two runs and drove in another. Starter Kyle Harrison gave up one run and four hits in three-plus innings. Detroit starter Keider Montero (1-2) allowed three runs and five hits in 5 2/3 innings. Royals 6, Orioles 5 Maikel Garcia scored on a wild pitch in the ninth inning and Kansas City snapped its eight-game losing streak with a win over visiting Baltimore. Ryan Helsley (0-2) walked Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr. to open the ninth. The runners reached second and third on a wild pitch, and Garcia darted home to score the winner on another wild one pitch from Helsley — his second of the inning and Baltimore’s fourth of the game. Michael Massey clubbed a tying solo homer in the eighth for the Royals, who overcame an early 3-0 hole for their first win since April 11. Adley Rutschman came off the 10-day injured list to hit a two-run go-ahead homer in the eighth for the Orioles, who also got a three-run shot from Coby Mayo but have lost six of eight. Rangers 5, Pirates 1 Kumar Rocker allowed one run on four hits over a season-high six innings and Texas began a nine-game homestand with a win over Pittsburgh. Rocker (1-1) walked one and struck out five for Texas, which returned home after playing 16 of its first 22 games on the road. Cole Winn, Jacob Latz and Jakob Junis each pitched a scoreless inning in relief. Five Rangers contributed RBIs. Jake Mangum and Nick Gonzales had two hits apiece for the Pirates, who have lost three of their last five. Carmen Mlodzinski (1-1) had not allowed an earned run in his last 13 innings, but gave up five runs over 4 1/3 innings. Padres 1, Rockies 0 Randy Vasquez pitched seven scoreless innings and allowed just three hits for San Diego, which squeaked out a rare shutout victory over Colorado in Denver. It marked just the fourth time in Rockies history they lost a 1-0 game at Coors Field. The other three instances happened in 2006, with the Milwaukee Brewers last beating Colorado by that score on Aug. 1, 2006. Vasquez (2-0) struck out five without issuing a walk in San Diego’s third straight win. The right-hander outdueled Chase Dollander (2-2), who threw six strong innings but had a lapse of wildness in the sixth that sent the Rockies their second straight defeat. Athletics 5, Mariners 2 Jeff McNeil and Shea Langeliers hit home runs as the Athletics defeated host Seattle, clinching a series victory against their American League West rivals. A’s left-hander Jacob Lopez (2-1) earned the victory by allowing two runs on seven hits over 5 1/3 innings. Right-hander Jack Perkins pitched the final two innings for his first save of the season. Cal Raleigh homered for a second consecutive night for the Mariners, who have dropped six of their past eight games. The A’s broke a 2-2 tie against reliever Eduard Bazardo (0-1) in the sixth. The loss was the first of Bazardo’s six-year career after eight consecutive victories. Blue Jays 4, Angels 2 Pinch hitter Lenyn Sosa drilled a tiebreaking two-run double during a three-run eighth inning, propelling Toronto past Los Angeles in Anaheim, Calif. Eloy Jimenez had two RBIs and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored twice for the Blue Jays, who matched their season best of three straight wins. Mason Fluharty (1-0) got two outs, and Louie Varland entered to induce a game-ending double play with the bases loaded for his first career save. Oswald Peraza had two hits and a run for the Angels, who have scored just six runs during a season-worst four-game losing streak. Drew Pomeranz (0-2) permitted three runs in his lone inning. -Field Level Media #Deadspin #MLB #roundup #Cubs #score #win #7th #straight #Phils #skid #hitsApr 21, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki (27) runs the bases after hitting a home run against the Philadelphia Phillies during the seventh inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Shota Imanaga tossed seven stellar innings, Seiya Suzuki and Michael Busch each drove in two runs and the streaking Chicago Cubs posted a 7-4 victory over the visiting Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday.

Imanaga (2-1) allowed just one run on three hits, striking out one and walking one for the Cubs, who won their major-league-leading seventh straight game. Suzuki and Nico Hoerner each homered in the win.

Jesus Luzardo threw 4 2/3 innings for the Phillies, surrendering one run on five hits, walking four and striking out three. Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber both homered for the Phillies, who saw their losing streak extend to seven.

Tanner Banks (0-1) replaced Kerkering in the sixth in a 1-1 game. Hoerner led off the frame with a single and advanced to third on Happ’s one-out hit. After Kelly’s two-out walk loaded the bases, Busch drove in a pair with a single. In the seventh, Hoerner launched a one-out solo homer to push the lead to 4-1. After Alex Bregman’s walk, Suzuki hit his first homer of the season — a 441-footer.

Yankees 4, Red Sox 0

Giancarlo Stanton hit a solo home run and collected three RBIs as New York opened a three-game series with a road victory over Boston.

Stanton’s home run came against Boston starter Connelly Early. He added a two-run double in the sixth. Stanton, Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Randal Grichuk each had two hits for the Yankees, who have won five of their last six. Luis Gil (1-1) pitched into the seventh to earn the win.

Early (1-1) was pulled with one out in the sixth. He gave up three runs on five hits and struck out four. Held to four hits, the Red Sox have scored three runs or fewer in 12 of their 23 games. Boston has allowed at least four runs in 13 of those 23 contests.

Giants 3, Dodgers 1

Landen Roupp outpitched Yoshinobu Yamamoto and San Francisco got RBI singles from Rafael Devers and Jung Hoo Lee in a three-run first inning, then held off visiting Los Angeles in the opener of a three-game series.

Roupp (4-1) allowed just one run on one hit in five innings, then watched five relievers combine for four scoreless innings, helping the Giants open a six-game homestand with a win. Roupp struck out seven and walked five in his first career win over the Dodgers.

Seeking his first-ever victory over the Giants, Yamamoto (2-2) went seven innings, allowing six hits and three runs, all of which scored in the first. He walked two and fanned seven.

Nationals 11, Braves 4

Luis Garcia Jr. had four hits and drove in three runs, Curtis Mead socked a three-run homer and host Washington ended Atlanta’s six-game winning streak.

James Wood hit his eighth homer of the season, walked four times and scored three runs for Washington, which leveled the four-game series at one victory apiece. Starter Foster Griffin (3-0) allowed three runs on five hits over six solid innings.

Drake Baldwin and Eli White homered for the Braves and Mauricio Dubon had two hits. Starter Reynaldo Lopez (1-1) allowed four runs in one-plus inning and gave up five hits and three walks while fanning one. Braves pitchers issued 12 walks.

Reds 12, Rays 6

Elly De La Cruz recorded his sixth career multi-homer game and drove in five runs, fueling Cincinnati to a victory over Tampa Bay in St. Petersburg, Fla.

De La Cruz launched a two-run blast in the first inning and a solo shot in the ninth. De La Cruz also had a fielder’s choice in a four-run sixth and an RBI single in the seventh. Ke’Bryan Hayes and Dane Myers launched back-to-back homers in the second and Spencer Steer added a solo shot in the fifth in Cincinnati’s fifth straight win.

Chase Burns (2-1) allowed two runs on four hits and struck out eight in 5 2/3 innings. His lone blemish was Jonathan Aranda’s two-run homer in the sixth. Jonny DeLuca had a two-run double in the ninth inning for Tampa Bay, which has been outscored 24-10 during its three-game losing streak.

Twins 5, Mets 3

Luke Keaschall’s second RBI single of the game snapped a ninth-inning tie and helped visiting Minnesota rally past slumping New York.

In losing its 12th straight game, New York coughed up a 3-0 lead as closer Devin Williams melted down during the top of the ninth. Williams (0-1) didn’t retire any of the five hitters he faced, walking three. Francisco Lindor hit a two-run homer in the Mets’ three-run third inning.

Minnesota’s bullpen retired all 12 hitters it faced. Cole Sands (1-1) pitched the last two innings to earn the win, fanning Tyrone Taylor for the last out. Byron Buxton hit a two-run shot to get the Twins on the board in the sixth.

White Sox 11, Diamondbacks 5

Rookie Munetaka Murakami homered for the fourth straight game, Colson Montgomery went deep for the third straight and Chicago slugged four homers in a rout of Arizona at Phoenix

.

Murakami, Michael Vargas and Montgomery hit consecutive solo shots in the second inning to help stake Sean Burke (1-2) to a 7-0 lead. Burke gave up two runs on five hits in six innings. Sam Antonacci’s first career homer was two-run inside-the-park job in the ninth.

Ildemaro Vargas hit a three-run homer in the ninth for the Diamondbacks, extending his season-opening hitting streak to 16 games. Merrill Kelly (1-1) was tagged for eight runs and 10 hits in 4 1/3 innings.

Cardinals 5, Marlins 3

Nathan Church slugged a two-run homer and Alec Burleson also drove in a pair of runs as visiting St. Louis defeated Miami.

St. Louis, which has won six of its past seven games, also got 5 1/3 strong innings from Dustin May (3-2). Riley O’Brien pitched a scoreless ninth inning to earn his seventh save. Cardinals star Jordan Walker had his 15-game hitting streak broken.

Miami was led by Jakob Marsee, who finished 3-for-4, including a homer leading off the bottom of the first. Marlins starter Chris Paddack (0-4) struck out seven but gave up five runs on eight hits and a walk in 4 2/3 innings.

Guardians 8, Astros 5


Rookie Chase DeLauter delivered a go-ahead three-run triple and Kyle Manzardo added a two-RBI single in a six-run eighth inning, rallying Cleveland to a victory over visiting Houston.

DeLauter’s sinking liner toward the foul line in left dropped just in front of Brice Matthews, who was attempting to make a sliding grab. Angel Martinez, Brayan Rocchio and Steven Kwan came around to put Cleveland ahead 6-4.

Rule 5 Draft selection Peyton Pallette (1-1) tossed a scoreless eighth for his first career win. Closer Cade Smith gave up an RBI single in the ninth to major league homer and RBI leader Yordan Alvarez in a non-save situation. Alvarez drove in three runs and had two hits for the Astros, who have split the first two games of the series.

Brewers 12, Tigers 4

Brice Turang drove in four runs and Milwaukee opened its three-game series at Detroit by pounding the Tigers.

William Contreras had two hits, drove in two runs and scored another for the Brewers. David Hamilton supplied four hits and scored twice, while Sal Frelick, Luis Rengifo and Blake Perkins each scored two runs and drove in another. Starter Kyle Harrison gave up one run and four hits in three-plus innings.

Detroit starter Keider Montero (1-2) allowed three runs and five hits in 5 2/3 innings.

Royals 6, Orioles 5

Maikel Garcia scored on a wild pitch in the ninth inning and Kansas City snapped its eight-game losing streak with a win over visiting Baltimore.

Ryan Helsley (0-2) walked Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr. to open the ninth. The runners reached second and third on a wild pitch, and Garcia darted home to score the winner on another wild one pitch from Helsley — his second of the inning and Baltimore’s fourth of the game.

Michael Massey clubbed a tying solo homer in the eighth for the Royals, who overcame an early 3-0 hole for their first win since April 11. Adley Rutschman came off the 10-day injured list to hit a two-run go-ahead homer in the eighth for the Orioles, who also got a three-run shot from Coby Mayo but have lost six of eight.

Rangers 5, Pirates 1

Kumar Rocker allowed one run on four hits over a season-high six innings and Texas began a nine-game homestand with a win over Pittsburgh.

Rocker (1-1) walked one and struck out five for Texas, which returned home after playing 16 of its first 22 games on the road. Cole Winn, Jacob Latz and Jakob Junis each pitched a scoreless inning in relief. Five Rangers contributed RBIs.

Jake Mangum and Nick Gonzales had two hits apiece for the Pirates, who have lost three of their last five. Carmen Mlodzinski (1-1) had not allowed an earned run in his last 13 innings, but gave up five runs over 4 1/3 innings.

Padres 1, Rockies 0

Randy Vasquez pitched seven scoreless innings and allowed just three hits for San Diego, which squeaked out a rare shutout victory over Colorado in Denver.

It marked just the fourth time in Rockies history they lost a 1-0 game at Coors Field. The other three instances happened in 2006, with the Milwaukee Brewers last beating Colorado by that score on Aug. 1, 2006.

Vasquez (2-0) struck out five without issuing a walk in San Diego’s third straight win. The right-hander outdueled Chase Dollander (2-2), who threw six strong innings but had a lapse of wildness in the sixth that sent the Rockies their second straight defeat.

Athletics 5, Mariners 2

Jeff McNeil and Shea Langeliers hit home runs as the Athletics defeated host Seattle, clinching a series victory against their American League West rivals.

A’s left-hander Jacob Lopez (2-1) earned the victory by allowing two runs on seven hits over 5 1/3 innings. Right-hander Jack Perkins pitched the final two innings for his first save of the season.

Cal Raleigh homered for a second consecutive night for the Mariners, who have dropped six of their past eight games. The A’s broke a 2-2 tie against reliever Eduard Bazardo (0-1) in the sixth. The loss was the first of Bazardo’s six-year career after eight consecutive victories.

Blue Jays 4, Angels 2

Pinch hitter Lenyn Sosa drilled a tiebreaking two-run double during a three-run eighth inning, propelling Toronto past Los Angeles in Anaheim, Calif.

Eloy Jimenez had two RBIs and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored twice for the Blue Jays, who matched their season best of three straight wins. Mason Fluharty (1-0) got two outs, and Louie Varland entered to induce a game-ending double play with the bases loaded for his first career save.

Oswald Peraza had two hits and a run for the Angels, who have scored just six runs during a season-worst four-game losing streak. Drew Pomeranz (0-2) permitted three runs in his lone inning.


-Field Level Media

#Deadspin #MLB #roundup #Cubs #score #win #7th #straight #Phils #skid #hits">Deadspin | MLB roundup: Cubs score 7, win 7th straight as Phils’ skid hits 7 Apr 21, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki (27) runs the bases after hitting a home run against the Philadelphia Phillies during the seventh inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images Shota Imanaga tossed seven stellar innings, Seiya Suzuki and Michael Busch each drove in two runs and the streaking Chicago Cubs posted a 7-4 victory over the visiting Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday. Imanaga (2-1) allowed just one run on three hits, striking out one and walking one for the Cubs, who won their major-league-leading seventh straight game. Suzuki and Nico Hoerner each homered in the win. Jesus Luzardo threw 4 2/3 innings for the Phillies, surrendering one run on five hits, walking four and striking out three. Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber both homered for the Phillies, who saw their losing streak extend to seven. Tanner Banks (0-1) replaced Kerkering in the sixth in a 1-1 game. Hoerner led off the frame with a single and advanced to third on Happ’s one-out hit. After Kelly’s two-out walk loaded the bases, Busch drove in a pair with a single. In the seventh, Hoerner launched a one-out solo homer to push the lead to 4-1. After Alex Bregman’s walk, Suzuki hit his first homer of the season — a 441-footer. Yankees 4, Red Sox 0 Giancarlo Stanton hit a solo home run and collected three RBIs as New York opened a three-game series with a road victory over Boston. Stanton’s home run came against Boston starter Connelly Early. He added a two-run double in the sixth. Stanton, Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Randal Grichuk each had two hits for the Yankees, who have won five of their last six. Luis Gil (1-1) pitched into the seventh to earn the win. Early (1-1) was pulled with one out in the sixth. He gave up three runs on five hits and struck out four. Held to four hits, the Red Sox have scored three runs or fewer in 12 of their 23 games. Boston has allowed at least four runs in 13 of those 23 contests. Giants 3, Dodgers 1 Landen Roupp outpitched Yoshinobu Yamamoto and San Francisco got RBI singles from Rafael Devers and Jung Hoo Lee in a three-run first inning, then held off visiting Los Angeles in the opener of a three-game series. Roupp (4-1) allowed just one run on one hit in five innings, then watched five relievers combine for four scoreless innings, helping the Giants open a six-game homestand with a win. Roupp struck out seven and walked five in his first career win over the Dodgers. Seeking his first-ever victory over the Giants, Yamamoto (2-2) went seven innings, allowing six hits and three runs, all of which scored in the first. He walked two and fanned seven. Nationals 11, Braves 4 Luis Garcia Jr. had four hits and drove in three runs, Curtis Mead socked a three-run homer and host Washington ended Atlanta’s six-game winning streak. James Wood hit his eighth homer of the season, walked four times and scored three runs for Washington, which leveled the four-game series at one victory apiece. Starter Foster Griffin (3-0) allowed three runs on five hits over six solid innings. Drake Baldwin and Eli White homered for the Braves and Mauricio Dubon had two hits. Starter Reynaldo Lopez (1-1) allowed four runs in one-plus inning and gave up five hits and three walks while fanning one. Braves pitchers issued 12 walks. Reds 12, Rays 6 Elly De La Cruz recorded his sixth career multi-homer game and drove in five runs, fueling Cincinnati to a victory over Tampa Bay in St. Petersburg, Fla. De La Cruz launched a two-run blast in the first inning and a solo shot in the ninth. De La Cruz also had a fielder’s choice in a four-run sixth and an RBI single in the seventh. Ke’Bryan Hayes and Dane Myers launched back-to-back homers in the second and Spencer Steer added a solo shot in the fifth in Cincinnati’s fifth straight win. Chase Burns (2-1) allowed two runs on four hits and struck out eight in 5 2/3 innings. His lone blemish was Jonathan Aranda’s two-run homer in the sixth. Jonny DeLuca had a two-run double in the ninth inning for Tampa Bay, which has been outscored 24-10 during its three-game losing streak. Twins 5, Mets 3 Luke Keaschall’s second RBI single of the game snapped a ninth-inning tie and helped visiting Minnesota rally past slumping New York. In losing its 12th straight game, New York coughed up a 3-0 lead as closer Devin Williams melted down during the top of the ninth. Williams (0-1) didn’t retire any of the five hitters he faced, walking three. Francisco Lindor hit a two-run homer in the Mets’ three-run third inning. Minnesota’s bullpen retired all 12 hitters it faced. Cole Sands (1-1) pitched the last two innings to earn the win, fanning Tyrone Taylor for the last out. Byron Buxton hit a two-run shot to get the Twins on the board in the sixth. White Sox 11, Diamondbacks 5 Rookie Munetaka Murakami homered for the fourth straight game, Colson Montgomery went deep for the third straight and Chicago slugged four homers in a rout of Arizona at Phoenix . Murakami, Michael Vargas and Montgomery hit consecutive solo shots in the second inning to help stake Sean Burke (1-2) to a 7-0 lead. Burke gave up two runs on five hits in six innings. Sam Antonacci’s first career homer was two-run inside-the-park job in the ninth. Ildemaro Vargas hit a three-run homer in the ninth for the Diamondbacks, extending his season-opening hitting streak to 16 games. Merrill Kelly (1-1) was tagged for eight runs and 10 hits in 4 1/3 innings. Cardinals 5, Marlins 3 Nathan Church slugged a two-run homer and Alec Burleson also drove in a pair of runs as visiting St. Louis defeated Miami. St. Louis, which has won six of its past seven games, also got 5 1/3 strong innings from Dustin May (3-2). Riley O’Brien pitched a scoreless ninth inning to earn his seventh save. Cardinals star Jordan Walker had his 15-game hitting streak broken. Miami was led by Jakob Marsee, who finished 3-for-4, including a homer leading off the bottom of the first. Marlins starter Chris Paddack (0-4) struck out seven but gave up five runs on eight hits and a walk in 4 2/3 innings. Guardians 8, Astros 5 Rookie Chase DeLauter delivered a go-ahead three-run triple and Kyle Manzardo added a two-RBI single in a six-run eighth inning, rallying Cleveland to a victory over visiting Houston. DeLauter’s sinking liner toward the foul line in left dropped just in front of Brice Matthews, who was attempting to make a sliding grab. Angel Martinez, Brayan Rocchio and Steven Kwan came around to put Cleveland ahead 6-4. Rule 5 Draft selection Peyton Pallette (1-1) tossed a scoreless eighth for his first career win. Closer Cade Smith gave up an RBI single in the ninth to major league homer and RBI leader Yordan Alvarez in a non-save situation. Alvarez drove in three runs and had two hits for the Astros, who have split the first two games of the series. Brewers 12, Tigers 4 Brice Turang drove in four runs and Milwaukee opened its three-game series at Detroit by pounding the Tigers. William Contreras had two hits, drove in two runs and scored another for the Brewers. David Hamilton supplied four hits and scored twice, while Sal Frelick, Luis Rengifo and Blake Perkins each scored two runs and drove in another. Starter Kyle Harrison gave up one run and four hits in three-plus innings. Detroit starter Keider Montero (1-2) allowed three runs and five hits in 5 2/3 innings. Royals 6, Orioles 5 Maikel Garcia scored on a wild pitch in the ninth inning and Kansas City snapped its eight-game losing streak with a win over visiting Baltimore. Ryan Helsley (0-2) walked Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr. to open the ninth. The runners reached second and third on a wild pitch, and Garcia darted home to score the winner on another wild one pitch from Helsley — his second of the inning and Baltimore’s fourth of the game. Michael Massey clubbed a tying solo homer in the eighth for the Royals, who overcame an early 3-0 hole for their first win since April 11. Adley Rutschman came off the 10-day injured list to hit a two-run go-ahead homer in the eighth for the Orioles, who also got a three-run shot from Coby Mayo but have lost six of eight. Rangers 5, Pirates 1 Kumar Rocker allowed one run on four hits over a season-high six innings and Texas began a nine-game homestand with a win over Pittsburgh. Rocker (1-1) walked one and struck out five for Texas, which returned home after playing 16 of its first 22 games on the road. Cole Winn, Jacob Latz and Jakob Junis each pitched a scoreless inning in relief. Five Rangers contributed RBIs. Jake Mangum and Nick Gonzales had two hits apiece for the Pirates, who have lost three of their last five. Carmen Mlodzinski (1-1) had not allowed an earned run in his last 13 innings, but gave up five runs over 4 1/3 innings. Padres 1, Rockies 0 Randy Vasquez pitched seven scoreless innings and allowed just three hits for San Diego, which squeaked out a rare shutout victory over Colorado in Denver. It marked just the fourth time in Rockies history they lost a 1-0 game at Coors Field. The other three instances happened in 2006, with the Milwaukee Brewers last beating Colorado by that score on Aug. 1, 2006. Vasquez (2-0) struck out five without issuing a walk in San Diego’s third straight win. The right-hander outdueled Chase Dollander (2-2), who threw six strong innings but had a lapse of wildness in the sixth that sent the Rockies their second straight defeat. Athletics 5, Mariners 2 Jeff McNeil and Shea Langeliers hit home runs as the Athletics defeated host Seattle, clinching a series victory against their American League West rivals. A’s left-hander Jacob Lopez (2-1) earned the victory by allowing two runs on seven hits over 5 1/3 innings. Right-hander Jack Perkins pitched the final two innings for his first save of the season. Cal Raleigh homered for a second consecutive night for the Mariners, who have dropped six of their past eight games. The A’s broke a 2-2 tie against reliever Eduard Bazardo (0-1) in the sixth. The loss was the first of Bazardo’s six-year career after eight consecutive victories. Blue Jays 4, Angels 2 Pinch hitter Lenyn Sosa drilled a tiebreaking two-run double during a three-run eighth inning, propelling Toronto past Los Angeles in Anaheim, Calif. Eloy Jimenez had two RBIs and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored twice for the Blue Jays, who matched their season best of three straight wins. Mason Fluharty (1-0) got two outs, and Louie Varland entered to induce a game-ending double play with the bases loaded for his first career save. Oswald Peraza had two hits and a run for the Angels, who have scored just six runs during a season-worst four-game losing streak. Drew Pomeranz (0-2) permitted three runs in his lone inning. -Field Level Media #Deadspin #MLB #roundup #Cubs #score #win #7th #straight #Phils #skid #hits

Filipina star Alexandra Eala enjoyed a strong start to her Madrid Open campaign on Wednesday, moving past Russian qualifier Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-3, 6-3 to reach the second round at the event for the third-straight year.

The 44th-ranked lefty needed one hour and 31 minutes to dismiss Pavlyuchenkova, who was a semifinalist in the Spanish capital in 2021.

The 34-year-old Pavlyuchenkova, a former French Open runner-up currently ranked 116 in the world, is 0-6 in tour-level main draw matches so far this season.

Eala saved all four break points she faced and broke Pavlyuchenkova twice in a tightly-contested 54-minute opening set.

The 20-year-old phenom briefly lost her advantage in the second set but swept eight points in a row to regain her lead and book a clash with 19th seed Elise Mertens.

“I feel really great. I love Madrid, it’s an amazing tournament,” said Eala, who has been training at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca for almost eight years. “Every time I come here, I feel very comfortable, I feel like I’m at home.”

Madrid Open 2026: Philippines’ Eala sails into second round; Berrettini loses to qualifier Filipina star Alexandra Eala enjoyed a strong start to her Madrid Open campaign on Wednesday, moving past Russian qualifier Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-3, 6-3 to reach the second round at the event for the third-straight year.The 44th-ranked lefty needed one hour and 31 minutes to dismiss Pavlyuchenkova, who was a semifinalist in the Spanish capital in 2021.The 34-year-old Pavlyuchenkova, a former French Open runner-up currently ranked 116 in the world, is 0-6 in tour-level main draw matches so far this season.Eala saved all four break points she faced and broke Pavlyuchenkova twice in a tightly-contested 54-minute opening set.The 20-year-old phenom briefly lost her advantage in the second set but swept eight points in a row to regain her lead and book a clash with 19th seed Elise Mertens.“I feel really great. I love Madrid, it’s an amazing tournament,” said Eala, who has been training at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca for almost eight years. “Every time I come here, I feel very comfortable, I feel like I’m at home.” Italy’s Matteo Berrettini during his round of 128 match against Croatia’s Dino Prizmic REUTERS/Isabel Infantes | Photo Credit: REUTERS Italy’s Matteo Berrettini during his round of 128 match against Croatia’s Dino Prizmic REUTERS/Isabel Infantes | Photo Credit: REUTERS Pavlyuchenkova, who was playing with a heavily-strapped right upper thigh, committed close to 40 unforced errors in what was her first meeting with Eala.“Every match at this level is a battle, all of us players we fight until the end and she’s been on the tour for many years. So I’m really happy with this win. She’s a great player and I’m really happy to be in the next round,” Eala added.In ATP action at the Caja Magica, 2021 Madrid finalist Matteo Berrettini crashed out to Croatian qualifier Dino Prizmic 6-3, 6-4.“It’s definitely a big thing for me and it’s a pleasure to share the court with him,” said the 20-year-old former Roland Garros junior champion. Prizmic will next take on American fourth seed Ben Shelton.Meanwhile, former US Open champion Marin Cilic claimed his first Madrid Open win since 2022 with a hard-fought 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 performance against world number 44 Zizou Bergs.It was the 37-year-old Croatian’s first top-50 victory on clay in four years and it earned him a second-round meeting with Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca.Published on Apr 22, 2026 #Madrid #Open #Philippines #Eala #sails #Berrettini #loses #qualifier

Italy’s Matteo Berrettini during his round of 128 match against Croatia’s Dino Prizmic REUTERS/Isabel Infantes | Photo Credit: REUTERS

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Italy’s Matteo Berrettini during his round of 128 match against Croatia’s Dino Prizmic REUTERS/Isabel Infantes | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Pavlyuchenkova, who was playing with a heavily-strapped right upper thigh, committed close to 40 unforced errors in what was her first meeting with Eala.

“Every match at this level is a battle, all of us players we fight until the end and she’s been on the tour for many years. So I’m really happy with this win. She’s a great player and I’m really happy to be in the next round,” Eala added.

In ATP action at the Caja Magica, 2021 Madrid finalist Matteo Berrettini crashed out to Croatian qualifier Dino Prizmic 6-3, 6-4.

“It’s definitely a big thing for me and it’s a pleasure to share the court with him,” said the 20-year-old former Roland Garros junior champion. Prizmic will next take on American fourth seed Ben Shelton.

Meanwhile, former US Open champion Marin Cilic claimed his first Madrid Open win since 2022 with a hard-fought 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 performance against world number 44 Zizou Bergs.

It was the 37-year-old Croatian’s first top-50 victory on clay in four years and it earned him a second-round meeting with Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca.

Published on Apr 22, 2026

#Madrid #Open #Philippines #Eala #sails #Berrettini #loses #qualifier">Madrid Open 2026: Philippines’ Eala sails into second round; Berrettini loses to qualifier Filipina star Alexandra Eala enjoyed a strong start to her Madrid Open campaign on Wednesday, moving past Russian qualifier Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-3, 6-3 to reach the second round at the event for the third-straight year.The 44th-ranked lefty needed one hour and 31 minutes to dismiss Pavlyuchenkova, who was a semifinalist in the Spanish capital in 2021.The 34-year-old Pavlyuchenkova, a former French Open runner-up currently ranked 116 in the world, is 0-6 in tour-level main draw matches so far this season.Eala saved all four break points she faced and broke Pavlyuchenkova twice in a tightly-contested 54-minute opening set.The 20-year-old phenom briefly lost her advantage in the second set but swept eight points in a row to regain her lead and book a clash with 19th seed Elise Mertens.“I feel really great. I love Madrid, it’s an amazing tournament,” said Eala, who has been training at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca for almost eight years. “Every time I come here, I feel very comfortable, I feel like I’m at home.” Italy’s Matteo Berrettini during his round of 128 match against Croatia’s Dino Prizmic REUTERS/Isabel Infantes | Photo Credit: REUTERS Italy’s Matteo Berrettini during his round of 128 match against Croatia’s Dino Prizmic REUTERS/Isabel Infantes | Photo Credit: REUTERS Pavlyuchenkova, who was playing with a heavily-strapped right upper thigh, committed close to 40 unforced errors in what was her first meeting with Eala.“Every match at this level is a battle, all of us players we fight until the end and she’s been on the tour for many years. So I’m really happy with this win. She’s a great player and I’m really happy to be in the next round,” Eala added.In ATP action at the Caja Magica, 2021 Madrid finalist Matteo Berrettini crashed out to Croatian qualifier Dino Prizmic 6-3, 6-4.“It’s definitely a big thing for me and it’s a pleasure to share the court with him,” said the 20-year-old former Roland Garros junior champion. Prizmic will next take on American fourth seed Ben Shelton.Meanwhile, former US Open champion Marin Cilic claimed his first Madrid Open win since 2022 with a hard-fought 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 performance against world number 44 Zizou Bergs.It was the 37-year-old Croatian’s first top-50 victory on clay in four years and it earned him a second-round meeting with Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca.Published on Apr 22, 2026 #Madrid #Open #Philippines #Eala #sails #Berrettini #loses #qualifier

Deadspin | Cardinals, in decisive game vs. Marlins, chase 3rd straight series win Apr 21, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; St. Louis Cardinals left fielder Nathan Church, center fielder Victor Scott II and right fielder Jordan Walker celebrate a win against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-Imagn Images The St. Louis Cardinals, who have won six of their past seven games, may be off to a surprising start to some, but not to manager Oliver Marmol. “It’s exactly what I would’ve anticipated this group to do,” Marmol said on Tuesday prior to a 5-3 Cardinals’ win over the host Miami Marlins. On Wednesday afternoon, both teams will try to take the three-game series. St. Louis has won back-to-back series while Miami hasn’t taken a series since winning two of three against the Chicago White Sox from March 30-April 1. The pitching matchup features a pair of right-handers, Miami’s Janson Junk (0-2, 4.50 ERA) against St. Louis’ Kyle Leahy (2-2, 5.21). Junk has never faced the Cardinals, and the Marlins are just 1-3 when he starts this season. Junk has just one quality start out of those four, on April 6 against the Cincinnati Reds. Since then, he has allowed nine earned runs, seven earned, on 11 hits in 10 1/3 innings (6.10 ERA). He relies on a four-seam fastball that sits 94-96 mph and off-speed stuff that includes a sweeper, a changeup and a curve. Leahy has never started against the Marlins, but he has made four scoreless relief appearances versus them, striking out four in 4 2/3 innings. He relies on a two-seam, sinking fastball that is used to get ground balls and a slider that is often his “out pitch,” especially against right-handers. He also uses a split-finger fastball, especially against lefties. This year, Leahy has been strictly a starter — although he has yet to record an out in the sixth inning. The Cardinals are 2-2 in his appearances. As for the Cardinals’ offense, right fielder Jordan Walker went 0-for-4 on Tuesday, snapping his 15-game hitting streak. He has been St. Louis’ best hitter this season, leading the team in homers (eight) and OPS (.964). That’s a major improvement from last season when he had just six homers in 111 games and a .584 OPS. “I think we’d all be lying if we thought Walker would have this type of start,” Marmol said. “The consistency of what he’s done has been impressive.” Consistency isn’t at the top of the agenda for Marlins manager Clayton McCullough this week. He continues to fill out unconventional lineups, such as placing speedy second baseman Xavier Edwards in the cleanup role the past two games. Edwards is no slugger: He has just five homers in 993 career at-bats. Yet he has produced a .915 OPS so far this season, and he still has the dynamic speed that he led him to 65 steals in 77 career attempts since making his big-league debut in 2023. “The lineup is going to be fluid, maybe not day to day but series to series depending on who we’re playing,” McCullough said. “I think with (Edwards’) skill set, it makes it easy for me. I feel like I can put him anywhere.” Another speedy Marlins hitter, center fielder Jakob Marsee has eight stolen bases, tied for fifth in the majors. Marsee went 3-for-4 with a homer on Tuesday. The long ball came on his first pitch with a new bat. On his previous swing, the bat slipped out of his hands and landed in the netting above the first base dugout. Marsee then grabbed a new bat and pulled the next pitch for a dinger down the right field line. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Cardinals #decisive #game #Marlins #chase #3rd #straight #series #winApr 21, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; St. Louis Cardinals left fielder Nathan Church, center fielder Victor Scott II and right fielder Jordan Walker celebrate a win against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-Imagn Images

The St. Louis Cardinals, who have won six of their past seven games, may be off to a surprising start to some, but not to manager Oliver Marmol.

“It’s exactly what I would’ve anticipated this group to do,” Marmol said on Tuesday prior to a 5-3 Cardinals’ win over the host Miami Marlins.

On Wednesday afternoon, both teams will try to take the three-game series. St. Louis has won back-to-back series while Miami hasn’t taken a series since winning two of three against the Chicago White Sox from March 30-April 1.

The pitching matchup features a pair of right-handers, Miami’s Janson Junk (0-2, 4.50 ERA) against St. Louis’ Kyle Leahy (2-2, 5.21).

Junk has never faced the Cardinals, and the Marlins are just 1-3 when he starts this season. Junk has just one quality start out of those four, on April 6 against the Cincinnati Reds. Since then, he has allowed nine earned runs, seven earned, on 11 hits in 10 1/3 innings (6.10 ERA).

He relies on a four-seam fastball that sits 94-96 mph and off-speed stuff that includes a sweeper, a changeup and a curve.

Leahy has never started against the Marlins, but he has made four scoreless relief appearances versus them, striking out four in 4 2/3 innings.

He relies on a two-seam, sinking fastball that is used to get ground balls and a slider that is often his “out pitch,” especially against right-handers. He also uses a split-finger fastball, especially against lefties.

This year, Leahy has been strictly a starter — although he has yet to record an out in the sixth inning. The Cardinals are 2-2 in his appearances.


As for the Cardinals’ offense, right fielder Jordan Walker went 0-for-4 on Tuesday, snapping his 15-game hitting streak. He has been St. Louis’ best hitter this season, leading the team in homers (eight) and OPS (.964).

That’s a major improvement from last season when he had just six homers in 111 games and a .584 OPS.

“I think we’d all be lying if we thought Walker would have this type of start,” Marmol said. “The consistency of what he’s done has been impressive.”

Consistency isn’t at the top of the agenda for Marlins manager Clayton McCullough this week. He continues to fill out unconventional lineups, such as placing speedy second baseman Xavier Edwards in the cleanup role the past two games.

Edwards is no slugger: He has just five homers in 993 career at-bats. Yet he has produced a .915 OPS so far this season, and he still has the dynamic speed that he led him to 65 steals in 77 career attempts since making his big-league debut in 2023.

“The lineup is going to be fluid, maybe not day to day but series to series depending on who we’re playing,” McCullough said. “I think with (Edwards’) skill set, it makes it easy for me. I feel like I can put him anywhere.”

Another speedy Marlins hitter, center fielder Jakob Marsee has eight stolen bases, tied for fifth in the majors.

Marsee went 3-for-4 with a homer on Tuesday.

The long ball came on his first pitch with a new bat. On his previous swing, the bat slipped out of his hands and landed in the netting above the first base dugout. Marsee then grabbed a new bat and pulled the next pitch for a dinger down the right field line.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Cardinals #decisive #game #Marlins #chase #3rd #straight #series #win">Deadspin | Cardinals, in decisive game vs. Marlins, chase 3rd straight series win Apr 21, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; St. Louis Cardinals left fielder Nathan Church, center fielder Victor Scott II and right fielder Jordan Walker celebrate a win against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-Imagn Images The St. Louis Cardinals, who have won six of their past seven games, may be off to a surprising start to some, but not to manager Oliver Marmol. “It’s exactly what I would’ve anticipated this group to do,” Marmol said on Tuesday prior to a 5-3 Cardinals’ win over the host Miami Marlins. On Wednesday afternoon, both teams will try to take the three-game series. St. Louis has won back-to-back series while Miami hasn’t taken a series since winning two of three against the Chicago White Sox from March 30-April 1. The pitching matchup features a pair of right-handers, Miami’s Janson Junk (0-2, 4.50 ERA) against St. Louis’ Kyle Leahy (2-2, 5.21). Junk has never faced the Cardinals, and the Marlins are just 1-3 when he starts this season. Junk has just one quality start out of those four, on April 6 against the Cincinnati Reds. Since then, he has allowed nine earned runs, seven earned, on 11 hits in 10 1/3 innings (6.10 ERA). He relies on a four-seam fastball that sits 94-96 mph and off-speed stuff that includes a sweeper, a changeup and a curve. Leahy has never started against the Marlins, but he has made four scoreless relief appearances versus them, striking out four in 4 2/3 innings. He relies on a two-seam, sinking fastball that is used to get ground balls and a slider that is often his “out pitch,” especially against right-handers. He also uses a split-finger fastball, especially against lefties. This year, Leahy has been strictly a starter — although he has yet to record an out in the sixth inning. The Cardinals are 2-2 in his appearances. As for the Cardinals’ offense, right fielder Jordan Walker went 0-for-4 on Tuesday, snapping his 15-game hitting streak. He has been St. Louis’ best hitter this season, leading the team in homers (eight) and OPS (.964). That’s a major improvement from last season when he had just six homers in 111 games and a .584 OPS. “I think we’d all be lying if we thought Walker would have this type of start,” Marmol said. “The consistency of what he’s done has been impressive.” Consistency isn’t at the top of the agenda for Marlins manager Clayton McCullough this week. He continues to fill out unconventional lineups, such as placing speedy second baseman Xavier Edwards in the cleanup role the past two games. Edwards is no slugger: He has just five homers in 993 career at-bats. Yet he has produced a .915 OPS so far this season, and he still has the dynamic speed that he led him to 65 steals in 77 career attempts since making his big-league debut in 2023. “The lineup is going to be fluid, maybe not day to day but series to series depending on who we’re playing,” McCullough said. “I think with (Edwards’) skill set, it makes it easy for me. I feel like I can put him anywhere.” Another speedy Marlins hitter, center fielder Jakob Marsee has eight stolen bases, tied for fifth in the majors. Marsee went 3-for-4 with a homer on Tuesday. The long ball came on his first pitch with a new bat. On his previous swing, the bat slipped out of his hands and landed in the netting above the first base dugout. Marsee then grabbed a new bat and pulled the next pitch for a dinger down the right field line. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Cardinals #decisive #game #Marlins #chase #3rd #straight #series #win

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