Deadspin | Heat, Hawks clash with major playoff implications Feb 20, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) shoots over Miami Heat guard Davion Mitchell (45) in the third quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images The Miami Heat are guaranteed a fourth straight year in the play-in round, but — with one game left in the regular season — there’s still something for Miami to chase. On Sunday night, the Heat (42-39) will host the Atlanta Hawks (46-35). If Miami beats Atlanta and Charlotte loses at the New York Knicks, the Heat will have home-court advantage against the Hornets in a do-or-die play-in game next week. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said he would’ve preferred to have made the playoff round outright, but … “We’re there (in the play-in),” he said. “We still have an opportunity to get home court (against Charlotte). We want to maximize that opportunity.” On Friday, the Heat broke a two-game losing streak with a 140-117 win at Washington. The Heat are just 4-10 over their past 14 games but are 7-1 in games in which they make at least 20 3-pointers. Indeed, Miami shot 20 of 37 from deep on Friday, and the Heat did that despite playing without several key players who are injured: Tyler Herro (right foot), Norman Powell (groin), Davion Mitchell (right shoulder), Dru Smith (right foot), and Nikola Jovic (left ankle). Their status for the game vs. the Hawks is uncertain, but the Heat have solid depth, as they showed on Friday with Simone Fontecchio and Pelle Larsson scoring 24 points each, and Jaime Jaquez Jr. adding 23. Bam Adebayo contributed 20 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists. Fontecchio, who has played 70 games this season, got just his ninth start of the campaign on Friday, and he earned praise from Spoelstra. “He has always kept himself ready,” Spoelstra said. “He’s done a lot of things that have made me take notice. He’s one of our better rebounders. He gives us positional size, and he’s ignitable as a shooter. If he sees a couple go down, it can be an avalanche from there.” Meanwhile, the Hawks have clinched their first playoff berth since 2023. Atlanta, the Southeast Division champion, will be seeded either fifth or sixth. The team’s first-round opponent will be either the Cavaliers if Atlanta holds on to the fifth seed, or the Knicks if the Hawks slip to sixth. Atlanta, which has not won a playoff series since 2021, is led by Jalen Johnson, a first-time All-Star this season. He tops the Hawks in scoring (22.5 points per game), rebounds (10.3 per game), and assists (7.9). Johnson had 18 points, nine rebounds, and two assists in just 25 minutes in Atlanta’s 124-102 playoff-clinching win over visiting Cleveland on Friday. Dyson Daniels, CJ McCollum, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker are three more Hawks players to watch. Daniels had his second career triple-double on Friday with 13 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds. For the season, he averages 11.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 5.9 assists and a team-high 2.0 steals. Alexander-Walker is second on the Hawks in scoring (20.8 ppg), and McCollum is third (18.7). McCollum scored a game-high 29 points on Friday. “These guys believed we could do this,” Hawks coach Quin Snyder said when asked about making the playoffs. “This year is about building a foundation. That, regardless of what happens going forward, is a win. We’re excited.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Heat #Hawks #clash #major #playoff #implications

Deadspin | Heat, Hawks clash with major playoff implications
Deadspin | Heat, Hawks clash with major playoff implications Feb 20, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) shoots over Miami Heat guard Davion Mitchell (45) in the third quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images The Miami Heat are guaranteed a fourth straight year in the play-in round, but — with one game left in the regular season — there’s still something for Miami to chase. On Sunday night, the Heat (42-39) will host the Atlanta Hawks (46-35). If Miami beats Atlanta and Charlotte loses at the New York Knicks, the Heat will have home-court advantage against the Hornets in a do-or-die play-in game next week. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said he would’ve preferred to have made the playoff round outright, but … “We’re there (in the play-in),” he said. “We still have an opportunity to get home court (against Charlotte). We want to maximize that opportunity.” On Friday, the Heat broke a two-game losing streak with a 140-117 win at Washington. The Heat are just 4-10 over their past 14 games but are 7-1 in games in which they make at least 20 3-pointers. Indeed, Miami shot 20 of 37 from deep on Friday, and the Heat did that despite playing without several key players who are injured: Tyler Herro (right foot), Norman Powell (groin), Davion Mitchell (right shoulder), Dru Smith (right foot), and Nikola Jovic (left ankle). Their status for the game vs. the Hawks is uncertain, but the Heat have solid depth, as they showed on Friday with Simone Fontecchio and Pelle Larsson scoring 24 points each, and Jaime Jaquez Jr. adding 23. Bam Adebayo contributed 20 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists. Fontecchio, who has played 70 games this season, got just his ninth start of the campaign on Friday, and he earned praise from Spoelstra. “He has always kept himself ready,” Spoelstra said. “He’s done a lot of things that have made me take notice. He’s one of our better rebounders. He gives us positional size, and he’s ignitable as a shooter. If he sees a couple go down, it can be an avalanche from there.” Meanwhile, the Hawks have clinched their first playoff berth since 2023. Atlanta, the Southeast Division champion, will be seeded either fifth or sixth. The team’s first-round opponent will be either the Cavaliers if Atlanta holds on to the fifth seed, or the Knicks if the Hawks slip to sixth. Atlanta, which has not won a playoff series since 2021, is led by Jalen Johnson, a first-time All-Star this season. He tops the Hawks in scoring (22.5 points per game), rebounds (10.3 per game), and assists (7.9). Johnson had 18 points, nine rebounds, and two assists in just 25 minutes in Atlanta’s 124-102 playoff-clinching win over visiting Cleveland on Friday. Dyson Daniels, CJ McCollum, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker are three more Hawks players to watch. Daniels had his second career triple-double on Friday with 13 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds. For the season, he averages 11.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 5.9 assists and a team-high 2.0 steals. Alexander-Walker is second on the Hawks in scoring (20.8 ppg), and McCollum is third (18.7). McCollum scored a game-high 29 points on Friday. “These guys believed we could do this,” Hawks coach Quin Snyder said when asked about making the playoffs. “This year is about building a foundation. That, regardless of what happens going forward, is a win. We’re excited.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Heat #Hawks #clash #major #playoff #implicationsFeb 20, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) shoots over Miami Heat guard Davion Mitchell (45) in the third quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

The Miami Heat are guaranteed a fourth straight year in the play-in round, but — with one game left in the regular season — there’s still something for Miami to chase.

On Sunday night, the Heat (42-39) will host the Atlanta Hawks (46-35). If Miami beats Atlanta and Charlotte loses at the New York Knicks, the Heat will have home-court advantage against the Hornets in a do-or-die play-in game next week.

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said he would’ve preferred to have made the playoff round outright, but …

“We’re there (in the play-in),” he said. “We still have an opportunity to get home court (against Charlotte). We want to maximize that opportunity.”

On Friday, the Heat broke a two-game losing streak with a 140-117 win at Washington. The Heat are just 4-10 over their past 14 games but are 7-1 in games in which they make at least 20 3-pointers.

Indeed, Miami shot 20 of 37 from deep on Friday, and the Heat did that despite playing without several key players who are injured: Tyler Herro (right foot), Norman Powell (groin), Davion Mitchell (right shoulder), Dru Smith (right foot), and Nikola Jovic (left ankle).

Their status for the game vs. the Hawks is uncertain, but the Heat have solid depth, as they showed on Friday with Simone Fontecchio and Pelle Larsson scoring 24 points each, and Jaime Jaquez Jr. adding 23. Bam Adebayo contributed 20 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists.

Fontecchio, who has played 70 games this season, got just his ninth start of the campaign on Friday, and he earned praise from Spoelstra.


“He has always kept himself ready,” Spoelstra said. “He’s done a lot of things that have made me take notice. He’s one of our better rebounders. He gives us positional size, and he’s ignitable as a shooter. If he sees a couple go down, it can be an avalanche from there.”

Meanwhile, the Hawks have clinched their first playoff berth since 2023. Atlanta, the Southeast Division champion, will be seeded either fifth or sixth. The team’s first-round opponent will be either the Cavaliers if Atlanta holds on to the fifth seed, or the Knicks if the Hawks slip to sixth.

Atlanta, which has not won a playoff series since 2021, is led by Jalen Johnson, a first-time All-Star this season. He tops the Hawks in scoring (22.5 points per game), rebounds (10.3 per game), and assists (7.9).

Johnson had 18 points, nine rebounds, and two assists in just 25 minutes in Atlanta’s 124-102 playoff-clinching win over visiting Cleveland on Friday.

Dyson Daniels, CJ McCollum, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker are three more Hawks players to watch.

Daniels had his second career triple-double on Friday with 13 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds. For the season, he averages 11.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 5.9 assists and a team-high 2.0 steals.

Alexander-Walker is second on the Hawks in scoring (20.8 ppg), and McCollum is third (18.7). McCollum scored a game-high 29 points on Friday.

“These guys believed we could do this,” Hawks coach Quin Snyder said when asked about making the playoffs. “This year is about building a foundation. That, regardless of what happens going forward, is a win. We’re excited.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Heat #Hawks #clash #major #playoff #implications

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Feb 20, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) shoots over Miami Heat guard Davion Mitchell (45) in the third quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

The Miami Heat are guaranteed a fourth straight year in the play-in round, but — with one game left in the regular season — there’s still something for Miami to chase.

On Sunday night, the Heat (42-39) will host the Atlanta Hawks (46-35). If Miami beats Atlanta and Charlotte loses at the New York Knicks, the Heat will have home-court advantage against the Hornets in a do-or-die play-in game next week.

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said he would’ve preferred to have made the playoff round outright, but …

“We’re there (in the play-in),” he said. “We still have an opportunity to get home court (against Charlotte). We want to maximize that opportunity.”

On Friday, the Heat broke a two-game losing streak with a 140-117 win at Washington. The Heat are just 4-10 over their past 14 games but are 7-1 in games in which they make at least 20 3-pointers.

Indeed, Miami shot 20 of 37 from deep on Friday, and the Heat did that despite playing without several key players who are injured: Tyler Herro (right foot), Norman Powell (groin), Davion Mitchell (right shoulder), Dru Smith (right foot), and Nikola Jovic (left ankle).

Their status for the game vs. the Hawks is uncertain, but the Heat have solid depth, as they showed on Friday with Simone Fontecchio and Pelle Larsson scoring 24 points each, and Jaime Jaquez Jr. adding 23. Bam Adebayo contributed 20 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists.

Fontecchio, who has played 70 games this season, got just his ninth start of the campaign on Friday, and he earned praise from Spoelstra.

“He has always kept himself ready,” Spoelstra said. “He’s done a lot of things that have made me take notice. He’s one of our better rebounders. He gives us positional size, and he’s ignitable as a shooter. If he sees a couple go down, it can be an avalanche from there.”

Meanwhile, the Hawks have clinched their first playoff berth since 2023. Atlanta, the Southeast Division champion, will be seeded either fifth or sixth. The team’s first-round opponent will be either the Cavaliers if Atlanta holds on to the fifth seed, or the Knicks if the Hawks slip to sixth.

Atlanta, which has not won a playoff series since 2021, is led by Jalen Johnson, a first-time All-Star this season. He tops the Hawks in scoring (22.5 points per game), rebounds (10.3 per game), and assists (7.9).

Johnson had 18 points, nine rebounds, and two assists in just 25 minutes in Atlanta’s 124-102 playoff-clinching win over visiting Cleveland on Friday.

Dyson Daniels, CJ McCollum, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker are three more Hawks players to watch.

Daniels had his second career triple-double on Friday with 13 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds. For the season, he averages 11.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 5.9 assists and a team-high 2.0 steals.

Alexander-Walker is second on the Hawks in scoring (20.8 ppg), and McCollum is third (18.7). McCollum scored a game-high 29 points on Friday.

“These guys believed we could do this,” Hawks coach Quin Snyder said when asked about making the playoffs. “This year is about building a foundation. That, regardless of what happens going forward, is a win. We’re excited.”

–Field Level Media

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Deadspin | Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper power Phillies past D-backs <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28707691.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28707691.jpg" alt="MLB: Arizona Diamondbacks at Philadelphia Phillies" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 11, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies infielder Bryce Harper (3) hits a home run against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the third inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper hit back-to-back home runs to highlight the Philadelphia Phillies’ 4-3 victory over the visiting Arizona Diamondbacks on Saturday afternoon.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Taijuan Walker (1-2) bounced back after a rough first inning to get the Phillies through five frames. He gave up two runs – both in the first – on four hits and two walks, striking out six to help Philadelphia snap a three-game slide.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Adrian Del Castillo had three hits and Ketel Marte homered for Arizona, which had won five of its previous six games. Diamondbacks starter Brandon Pfaadt (0-1) gave up four runs – three earned – and five hits over six innings, walking three and striking out six.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Arizona got off to a great start, as Marte hit Walker’s third pitch of the game over the wall in right-center field for a 1-0 lead.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Corbin Carroll followed with a walk and advanced on a groundout. The next hitter was Del Castillo, who delivered an RBI single to make it 2-0.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Philadelphia went down quietly against Pfaadt in the first and second innings before an error by shortstop Geraldo Perdomo led to a four-run rally in the third.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-7"> <p>After Alec Bohm reached on Perdomo’s miscue, Justin Crawford singled and Trea Turner struck out. Pfaadt then tried to get a 1-0 changeup past Schwarber, who launched it into the seats in right field to put the hosts ahead.</p> </section> <section id="section-8"> <p>Two pitches later, Harper sent a fastball into the Phillies’ bullpen in right-center, making it 4-2.</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>Schwarber’s fourth home run and Harper’s third of the season proved to be enough support for Walker, who induced a double play to get through the fifth.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>Tim Mayza, Orion Kerkering and Jose Alvarado combined to get through the sixth and seventh innings.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>Brad Keller ran into some two-out trouble in the eighth, as he allowed a walk and two hits – including Jose Fernandez’s single that sliced Arizona’s deficit to 4-3. However, Keller struck out Nolan Arenado with the tying run on third base to end the inning.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>Jhoan Duran had no issues in the ninth, retiring the side in order for his fifth save.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Kyle #Schwarber #Bryce #Harper #power #Phillies #Dbacks

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Tuesday April 14th MLB Betting Picks and Expert Predictions | Deadspin.com Mar 30, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Colorado Rockies Troy Johnston (20) hits a home rum against the Toronto Blue Jays during the sixth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-Imagn Images OK, we have about 10% of the season under our belts and some trends have formed.Will they hold? Wish I knew, but I am going to jump on one of them as part of today’s MLB Picks.Season Record 5-8-1, -3.55 UnitsRockies at AstrosThe Astros have lost eight in a row and sunk to the bottom of the AL at 6-11, but it’s entirely the fault of their battered pitching staff.Cy Young candidate Hunter Brown is on the IL, probably until June. NPB import Tatsuya Imai had to leave his last start with an injury after walking 4 of the 5 batters he faced. Cristian Javier also recently landed on the IL, probably a good thing after his rough start. They’ll turn today to Colton Gordon making his 2026 MLB debut. He pitched a bit for Houston last year when they also could not keep anyone healthy, and it did not go terribly well. In 14 starts and 20 total appearances he had a 5.34 ERA and 1.42 WHIP with a 19% K%. Gordon’s fastball sat at just 91 with a Stuff+ rating of 90. He does however have a plus slider (113 Stuff+) and his command numbers are pretty good. Can a rather blah combo like this shut down a lousy offense like the Road Rockies? Maybe.On the side of the ball though the Astros bats are mostly cooking as they have a 131 wRC+ that ranks second in MLB. Yordan Alvarez has shown that when he can stay on the field he’s an absolute terror as he’s off to a .321/.487/.714 start with six homers and a ridiculous 21.1% BB% to 10.5% K% combo. Giving him all those free passes has not worked well for opponents as Jose Altuve, Christian Walker, Cam Smith and Joey Loperfido all have an early wRC+ of at least 118.And the Astros do not face the stiffest test tonight as the Rockies will start Michael Lorenzen. I liked this signing for the team given the goal in Colorado is to somehow get enough innings out of their starters without overtaxing any younger and more promising arms they can develop. But he’s just not that good at this stage of career as he has an 8.36 ERA and 2.14 WHIP and it hasn’t even gotten warm yet at Coors. The F5 number is kind of high, but the Astros have really cashed on those so far this year at 13-3 with a 61.7% ROI. With this pitching matchup and the Astros hot bats, I like them to score early and often.Over 8.5 (-113 BetRivers) Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ Mets at DodgersThe Mets have gotten off to a disconcerting 7-10 marked mostly by an inept offense. So help me it’s about the Elenty billionth time in my many years of Mets fandom that they feel buried the minute they give up a run. But it’s not McLean’s fault as he looks every bit the future ace with a 2.70 ERA and 0.84 WHIP through three starts.Yeah, I know he’s facing Dodgers ace Yoshi Yamamoto and the best lineup in MLB. But. McLean has a stellar 31.3% K% and he has 8 K’s in two of those starts. I think he puts the team on his back tonight and comes up with a big performance and at least keeps them even through five innings.Mets F5 +0.5 (+100 Caesars) Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ #Tuesday #April #14th #MLB #Betting #Picks #Expert #Predictions #Deadspin.comMar 30, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Colorado Rockies Troy Johnston (20) hits a home rum against the Toronto Blue Jays during the sixth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-Imagn Images

OK, we have about 10% of the season under our belts and some trends have formed.

Will they hold? Wish I knew, but I am going to jump on one of them as part of today’s MLB Picks.

Season Record 5-8-1, -3.55 Units

Rockies at Astros

The Astros have lost eight in a row and sunk to the bottom of the AL at 6-11, but it’s entirely the fault of their battered pitching staff.

Cy Young candidate Hunter Brown is on the IL, probably until June. NPB import Tatsuya Imai had to leave his last start with an injury after walking 4 of the 5 batters he faced. Cristian Javier also recently landed on the IL, probably a good thing after his rough start. They’ll turn today to Colton Gordon making his 2026 MLB debut. He pitched a bit for Houston last year when they also could not keep anyone healthy, and it did not go terribly well. In 14 starts and 20 total appearances he had a 5.34 ERA and 1.42 WHIP with a 19% K%. Gordon’s fastball sat at just 91 with a Stuff+ rating of 90. He does however have a plus slider (113 Stuff+) and his command numbers are pretty good. Can a rather blah combo like this shut down a lousy offense like the Road Rockies? Maybe.

On the side of the ball though the Astros bats are mostly cooking as they have a 131 wRC+ that ranks second in MLB. Yordan Alvarez has shown that when he can stay on the field he’s an absolute terror as he’s off to a .321/.487/.714 start with six homers and a ridiculous 21.1% BB% to 10.5% K% combo. Giving him all those free passes has not worked well for opponents as Jose Altuve, Christian Walker, Cam Smith and Joey Loperfido all have an early wRC+ of at least 118.

And the Astros do not face the stiffest test tonight as the Rockies will start Michael Lorenzen. I liked this signing for the team given the goal in Colorado is to somehow get enough innings out of their starters without overtaxing any younger and more promising arms they can develop. But he’s just not that good at this stage of career as he has an 8.36 ERA and 2.14 WHIP and it hasn’t even gotten warm yet at Coors. The F5 number is kind of high, but the Astros have really cashed on those so far this year at 13-3 with a 61.7% ROI. With this pitching matchup and the Astros hot bats, I like them to score early and often.

Over 8.5 (-113 BetRivers)

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Mets at Dodgers

The Mets have gotten off to a disconcerting 7-10 marked mostly by an inept offense. So help me it’s about the Elenty billionth time in my many years of Mets fandom that they feel buried the minute they give up a run. But it’s not McLean’s fault as he looks every bit the future ace with a 2.70 ERA and 0.84 WHIP through three starts.

Yeah, I know he’s facing Dodgers ace Yoshi Yamamoto and the best lineup in MLB. But. McLean has a stellar 31.3% K% and he has 8 K’s in two of those starts. I think he puts the team on his back tonight and comes up with a big performance and at least keeps them even through five innings.

Mets F5 +0.5 (+100 Caesars)

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#Tuesday #April #14th #MLB #Betting #Picks #Expert #Predictions #Deadspin.com">Tuesday April 14th MLB Betting Picks and Expert Predictions | Deadspin.com Mar 30, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Colorado Rockies Troy Johnston (20) hits a home rum against the Toronto Blue Jays during the sixth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-Imagn Images OK, we have about 10% of the season under our belts and some trends have formed.Will they hold? Wish I knew, but I am going to jump on one of them as part of today’s MLB Picks.Season Record 5-8-1, -3.55 UnitsRockies at AstrosThe Astros have lost eight in a row and sunk to the bottom of the AL at 6-11, but it’s entirely the fault of their battered pitching staff.Cy Young candidate Hunter Brown is on the IL, probably until June. NPB import Tatsuya Imai had to leave his last start with an injury after walking 4 of the 5 batters he faced. Cristian Javier also recently landed on the IL, probably a good thing after his rough start. They’ll turn today to Colton Gordon making his 2026 MLB debut. He pitched a bit for Houston last year when they also could not keep anyone healthy, and it did not go terribly well. In 14 starts and 20 total appearances he had a 5.34 ERA and 1.42 WHIP with a 19% K%. Gordon’s fastball sat at just 91 with a Stuff+ rating of 90. He does however have a plus slider (113 Stuff+) and his command numbers are pretty good. Can a rather blah combo like this shut down a lousy offense like the Road Rockies? Maybe.On the side of the ball though the Astros bats are mostly cooking as they have a 131 wRC+ that ranks second in MLB. Yordan Alvarez has shown that when he can stay on the field he’s an absolute terror as he’s off to a .321/.487/.714 start with six homers and a ridiculous 21.1% BB% to 10.5% K% combo. Giving him all those free passes has not worked well for opponents as Jose Altuve, Christian Walker, Cam Smith and Joey Loperfido all have an early wRC+ of at least 118.And the Astros do not face the stiffest test tonight as the Rockies will start Michael Lorenzen. I liked this signing for the team given the goal in Colorado is to somehow get enough innings out of their starters without overtaxing any younger and more promising arms they can develop. But he’s just not that good at this stage of career as he has an 8.36 ERA and 2.14 WHIP and it hasn’t even gotten warm yet at Coors. The F5 number is kind of high, but the Astros have really cashed on those so far this year at 13-3 with a 61.7% ROI. With this pitching matchup and the Astros hot bats, I like them to score early and often.Over 8.5 (-113 BetRivers) Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ Mets at DodgersThe Mets have gotten off to a disconcerting 7-10 marked mostly by an inept offense. So help me it’s about the Elenty billionth time in my many years of Mets fandom that they feel buried the minute they give up a run. But it’s not McLean’s fault as he looks every bit the future ace with a 2.70 ERA and 0.84 WHIP through three starts.Yeah, I know he’s facing Dodgers ace Yoshi Yamamoto and the best lineup in MLB. But. McLean has a stellar 31.3% K% and he has 8 K’s in two of those starts. I think he puts the team on his back tonight and comes up with a big performance and at least keeps them even through five innings.Mets F5 +0.5 (+100 Caesars) Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ #Tuesday #April #14th #MLB #Betting #Picks #Expert #Predictions #Deadspin.com

trends have formed.

Will they hold? Wish I knew, but I am going to jump on one of them as part of today’s MLB Picks.

Season Record 5-8-1, -3.55 Units

Rockies at Astros

The Astros have lost eight in a row and sunk to the bottom of the AL at 6-11, but it’s entirely the fault of their battered pitching staff.

Cy Young candidate Hunter Brown is on the IL, probably until June. NPB import Tatsuya Imai had to leave his last start with an injury after walking 4 of the 5 batters he faced. Cristian Javier also recently landed on the IL, probably a good thing after his rough start. They’ll turn today to Colton Gordon making his 2026 MLB debut. He pitched a bit for Houston last year when they also could not keep anyone healthy, and it did not go terribly well. In 14 starts and 20 total appearances he had a 5.34 ERA and 1.42 WHIP with a 19% K%. Gordon’s fastball sat at just 91 with a Stuff+ rating of 90. He does however have a plus slider (113 Stuff+) and his command numbers are pretty good. Can a rather blah combo like this shut down a lousy offense like the Road Rockies? Maybe.

On the side of the ball though the Astros bats are mostly cooking as they have a 131 wRC+ that ranks second in MLB. Yordan Alvarez has shown that when he can stay on the field he’s an absolute terror as he’s off to a .321/.487/.714 start with six homers and a ridiculous 21.1% BB% to 10.5% K% combo. Giving him all those free passes has not worked well for opponents as Jose Altuve, Christian Walker, Cam Smith and Joey Loperfido all have an early wRC+ of at least 118.

And the Astros do not face the stiffest test tonight as the Rockies will start Michael Lorenzen. I liked this signing for the team given the goal in Colorado is to somehow get enough innings out of their starters without overtaxing any younger and more promising arms they can develop. But he’s just not that good at this stage of career as he has an 8.36 ERA and 2.14 WHIP and it hasn’t even gotten warm yet at Coors. The F5 number is kind of high, but the Astros have really cashed on those so far this year at 13-3 with a 61.7% ROI. With this pitching matchup and the Astros hot bats, I like them to score early and often.

Over 8.5 (-113 BetRivers)

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Mets at Dodgers

The Mets have gotten off to a disconcerting 7-10 marked mostly by an inept offense. So help me it’s about the Elenty billionth time in my many years of Mets fandom that they feel buried the minute they give up a run. But it’s not McLean’s fault as he looks every bit the future ace with a 2.70 ERA and 0.84 WHIP through three starts.

Yeah, I know he’s facing Dodgers ace Yoshi Yamamoto and the best lineup in MLB. But. McLean has a stellar 31.3% K% and he has 8 K’s in two of those starts. I think he puts the team on his back tonight and comes up with a big performance and at least keeps them even through five innings.

Mets F5 +0.5 (+100 Caesars)

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#Tuesday #April #14th #MLB #Betting #Picks #Expert #Predictions #Deadspin.com">Tuesday April 14th MLB Betting Picks and Expert Predictions | Deadspin.com
Tuesday April 14th MLB Betting Picks and Expert Predictions | Deadspin.com Mar 30, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Colorado Rockies Troy Johnston (20) hits a home rum against the Toronto Blue Jays during the sixth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-Imagn Images OK, we have about 10% of the season under our belts and some trends have formed.Will they hold? Wish I knew, but I am going to jump on one of them as part of today’s MLB Picks.Season Record 5-8-1, -3.55 UnitsRockies at AstrosThe Astros have lost eight in a row and sunk to the bottom of the AL at 6-11, but it’s entirely the fault of their battered pitching staff.Cy Young candidate Hunter Brown is on the IL, probably until June. NPB import Tatsuya Imai had to leave his last start with an injury after walking 4 of the 5 batters he faced. Cristian Javier also recently landed on the IL, probably a good thing after his rough start. They’ll turn today to Colton Gordon making his 2026 MLB debut. He pitched a bit for Houston last year when they also could not keep anyone healthy, and it did not go terribly well. In 14 starts and 20 total appearances he had a 5.34 ERA and 1.42 WHIP with a 19% K%. Gordon’s fastball sat at just 91 with a Stuff+ rating of 90. He does however have a plus slider (113 Stuff+) and his command numbers are pretty good. Can a rather blah combo like this shut down a lousy offense like the Road Rockies? Maybe.On the side of the ball though the Astros bats are mostly cooking as they have a 131 wRC+ that ranks second in MLB. Yordan Alvarez has shown that when he can stay on the field he’s an absolute terror as he’s off to a .321/.487/.714 start with six homers and a ridiculous 21.1% BB% to 10.5% K% combo. Giving him all those free passes has not worked well for opponents as Jose Altuve, Christian Walker, Cam Smith and Joey Loperfido all have an early wRC+ of at least 118.And the Astros do not face the stiffest test tonight as the Rockies will start Michael Lorenzen. I liked this signing for the team given the goal in Colorado is to somehow get enough innings out of their starters without overtaxing any younger and more promising arms they can develop. But he’s just not that good at this stage of career as he has an 8.36 ERA and 2.14 WHIP and it hasn’t even gotten warm yet at Coors. The F5 number is kind of high, but the Astros have really cashed on those so far this year at 13-3 with a 61.7% ROI. With this pitching matchup and the Astros hot bats, I like them to score early and often.Over 8.5 (-113 BetRivers) Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ Mets at DodgersThe Mets have gotten off to a disconcerting 7-10 marked mostly by an inept offense. So help me it’s about the Elenty billionth time in my many years of Mets fandom that they feel buried the minute they give up a run. But it’s not McLean’s fault as he looks every bit the future ace with a 2.70 ERA and 0.84 WHIP through three starts.Yeah, I know he’s facing Dodgers ace Yoshi Yamamoto and the best lineup in MLB. But. McLean has a stellar 31.3% K% and he has 8 K’s in two of those starts. I think he puts the team on his back tonight and comes up with a big performance and at least keeps them even through five innings.Mets F5 +0.5 (+100 Caesars) Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ #Tuesday #April #14th #MLB #Betting #Picks #Expert #Predictions #Deadspin.comMar 30, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Colorado Rockies Troy Johnston (20) hits a home rum against the Toronto Blue Jays during the sixth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-Imagn Images

OK, we have about 10% of the season under our belts and some trends have formed.

Will they hold? Wish I knew, but I am going to jump on one of them as part of today’s MLB Picks.

Season Record 5-8-1, -3.55 Units

Rockies at Astros

The Astros have lost eight in a row and sunk to the bottom of the AL at 6-11, but it’s entirely the fault of their battered pitching staff.

Cy Young candidate Hunter Brown is on the IL, probably until June. NPB import Tatsuya Imai had to leave his last start with an injury after walking 4 of the 5 batters he faced. Cristian Javier also recently landed on the IL, probably a good thing after his rough start. They’ll turn today to Colton Gordon making his 2026 MLB debut. He pitched a bit for Houston last year when they also could not keep anyone healthy, and it did not go terribly well. In 14 starts and 20 total appearances he had a 5.34 ERA and 1.42 WHIP with a 19% K%. Gordon’s fastball sat at just 91 with a Stuff+ rating of 90. He does however have a plus slider (113 Stuff+) and his command numbers are pretty good. Can a rather blah combo like this shut down a lousy offense like the Road Rockies? Maybe.

On the side of the ball though the Astros bats are mostly cooking as they have a 131 wRC+ that ranks second in MLB. Yordan Alvarez has shown that when he can stay on the field he’s an absolute terror as he’s off to a .321/.487/.714 start with six homers and a ridiculous 21.1% BB% to 10.5% K% combo. Giving him all those free passes has not worked well for opponents as Jose Altuve, Christian Walker, Cam Smith and Joey Loperfido all have an early wRC+ of at least 118.

And the Astros do not face the stiffest test tonight as the Rockies will start Michael Lorenzen. I liked this signing for the team given the goal in Colorado is to somehow get enough innings out of their starters without overtaxing any younger and more promising arms they can develop. But he’s just not that good at this stage of career as he has an 8.36 ERA and 2.14 WHIP and it hasn’t even gotten warm yet at Coors. The F5 number is kind of high, but the Astros have really cashed on those so far this year at 13-3 with a 61.7% ROI. With this pitching matchup and the Astros hot bats, I like them to score early and often.

Over 8.5 (-113 BetRivers)

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Mets at Dodgers

The Mets have gotten off to a disconcerting 7-10 marked mostly by an inept offense. So help me it’s about the Elenty billionth time in my many years of Mets fandom that they feel buried the minute they give up a run. But it’s not McLean’s fault as he looks every bit the future ace with a 2.70 ERA and 0.84 WHIP through three starts.

Yeah, I know he’s facing Dodgers ace Yoshi Yamamoto and the best lineup in MLB. But. McLean has a stellar 31.3% K% and he has 8 K’s in two of those starts. I think he puts the team on his back tonight and comes up with a big performance and at least keeps them even through five innings.

Mets F5 +0.5 (+100 Caesars)

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#Tuesday #April #14th #MLB #Betting #Picks #Expert #Predictions #Deadspin.com

Francis Mauigoa, T/G, Miami

The Dolphins are tearing it down to the studs this offseason, kicking off a rebuild under new GM Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley. The idea is to build the Dolphins from the inside out using the Draft. Selecting Mauigoa starts the inside build with a player who could be either a right tackle or a guard at the NFL level- and played right into the Dolphins’ draft needs. He immediately starts at guard, but is the primary backup to right tackle Austin Jackson, who has struggled with injuries throughout his career, if needed. Miami fills two holes with its first of two picks in the opening round.

#Francis #Mauigoa #selected #Dolphins #Phinsider #Nations #community #mock #draft">Francis Mauigoa selected by Dolphins by The Phinsider in SB Nation’s community mock draft Francis Mauigoa, T/G, MiamiThe Dolphins are tearing it down to the studs this offseason, kicking off a rebuild under new GM Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley. The idea is to build the Dolphins from the inside out using the Draft. Selecting Mauigoa starts the inside build with a player who could be either a right tackle or a guard at the NFL level- and played right into the Dolphins’ draft needs. He immediately starts at guard, but is the primary backup to right tackle Austin Jackson, who has struggled with injuries throughout his career, if needed. Miami fills two holes with its first of two picks in the opening round. #Francis #Mauigoa #selected #Dolphins #Phinsider #Nations #community #mock #draft

Javokhir Sindarov’s dream run at the FIDE Candidates 2026 was sealed with a draw against Anish Giri in Round 13, securing him a shot at the FIDE World Championship against D. Gukesh later this year.

Sindarov remains unbeaten in the tournament and clinched the Candidates title with a round to spare.

Heading into Tuesday’s Round 13, Sindarov held a two-point lead. Giri needed a win to cut the deficit to one and take the contest into the final day, but the draw ensured Sindarov wrapped up the title.

Giri opened with 1. e4, and Sindarov responded with a rock-solid set-up. By move 15, several pieces had been exchanged, leading to a queenless middlegame, a scenario that suited Sindarov as he looked to minimise risk.

ALSO READ: Javokhir Sindarov — the Uzbek jewel taking FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 by storm

Giri attempted to build pressure along the d-file, but Sindarov defended resolutely with Be6 and Re6, neutralising White’s efforts.

The game later transitioned into a rook and bishop endgame, where neither side could find a breakthrough, before the players repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.

Other results in the Open section saw Hikaru Nakamura pick up another draw against Matthias Bluebaum, Wei Yi defeat Andrey Esipenko, and R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Fabiano Caruana.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #seals #title #spare #extends #unbeaten #run #games">FIDE Candidates 2026 Open Section: Sindarov seals title with a round to spare; extends unbeaten run to 50 games Javokhir Sindarov’s dream run at the FIDE Candidates 2026 was sealed with a draw against Anish Giri in Round 13, securing him a shot at the FIDE World Championship against D. Gukesh later this year.Sindarov remains unbeaten in the tournament and clinched the Candidates title with a round to spare.Heading into Tuesday’s Round 13, Sindarov held a two-point lead. Giri needed a win to cut the deficit to one and take the contest into the final day, but the draw ensured Sindarov wrapped up the title.Giri opened with 1. e4, and Sindarov responded with a rock-solid set-up. By move 15, several pieces had been exchanged, leading to a queenless middlegame, a scenario that suited Sindarov as he looked to minimise risk.ALSO READ: Javokhir Sindarov — the Uzbek jewel taking FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 by stormGiri attempted to build pressure along the d-file, but Sindarov defended resolutely with Be6 and Re6, neutralising White’s efforts.The game later transitioned into a rook and bishop endgame, where neither side could find a breakthrough, before the players repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.Other results in the Open section saw Hikaru Nakamura pick up another draw against Matthias Bluebaum, Wei Yi defeat Andrey Esipenko, and R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Fabiano Caruana.Published on Apr 14, 2026 #FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #seals #title #spare #extends #unbeaten #run #games

Javokhir Sindarov — the Uzbek jewel taking FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 by storm

Giri attempted to build pressure along the d-file, but Sindarov defended resolutely with Be6 and Re6, neutralising White’s efforts.

The game later transitioned into a rook and bishop endgame, where neither side could find a breakthrough, before the players repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.

Other results in the Open section saw Hikaru Nakamura pick up another draw against Matthias Bluebaum, Wei Yi defeat Andrey Esipenko, and R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Fabiano Caruana.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #seals #title #spare #extends #unbeaten #run #games">FIDE Candidates 2026 Open Section: Sindarov seals title with a round to spare; extends unbeaten run to 50 games

Javokhir Sindarov’s dream run at the FIDE Candidates 2026 was sealed with a draw against Anish Giri in Round 13, securing him a shot at the FIDE World Championship against D. Gukesh later this year.

Sindarov remains unbeaten in the tournament and clinched the Candidates title with a round to spare.

Heading into Tuesday’s Round 13, Sindarov held a two-point lead. Giri needed a win to cut the deficit to one and take the contest into the final day, but the draw ensured Sindarov wrapped up the title.

Giri opened with 1. e4, and Sindarov responded with a rock-solid set-up. By move 15, several pieces had been exchanged, leading to a queenless middlegame, a scenario that suited Sindarov as he looked to minimise risk.

ALSO READ: Javokhir Sindarov — the Uzbek jewel taking FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 by storm

Giri attempted to build pressure along the d-file, but Sindarov defended resolutely with Be6 and Re6, neutralising White’s efforts.

The game later transitioned into a rook and bishop endgame, where neither side could find a breakthrough, before the players repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.

Other results in the Open section saw Hikaru Nakamura pick up another draw against Matthias Bluebaum, Wei Yi defeat Andrey Esipenko, and R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Fabiano Caruana.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #seals #title #spare #extends #unbeaten #run #games

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