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Deadspin | Kenyan pair repeat at Boston Marathon; John Korir breaks course record  Boston Marathon – Boston, Massachusetts, U.S. – April 20, 2026 Kenya’s John Korir crosses the finish line to win the men’s elite race REUTERS/Cj Gunther   John Korir of Kenya won his second straight Boston Marathon on Monday morning, setting a course record in the 130th edition of the race with a time of 2:01:52.  Korir, 29, took the lead just before the 20-mile mark, gradually building his advantage and finishing 55 seconds ahead of Alphonce Simbo of Tanzania. Benson Kipruto of Kenya, the 2021 winner, finished third.  Korir, whose brother Wesley also won the Boston Marathon in 2012, broke Geoffrey Mutai’s 2011 course record by 70 seconds. He is just the second man since 2008 to win back-to-back Boston Marathons, joining countryman Evans Chebet (2022-23).  Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi, 32, also repeated as Boston Marathon champion on the women’s side, finishing in a time of 2:18:51, 89 seconds slower than the course record she set in 2025. Kenya’s Loice Chemnung finished second, 44 seconds back.   Zouhair Talbi, a Moroccan-born runner now representing the U.S., was the top American finisher in the men’s race. He was fifth overall with a time of 2:03:45, breaking his previous personal record by two minutes on the nose.  Jess McClain, the top American woman, also came in fifth with a time of 2:20:49, a new personal best by nearly two minutes.  –Field Level Media   #Deadspin #Kenyan #pair #repeat #Boston #Marathon #John #Korir #breaks #record

Deadspin | Kenyan pair repeat at Boston Marathon; John Korir breaks course record
Deadspin | Kenyan pair repeat at Boston Marathon; John Korir breaks course record  Boston Marathon – Boston, Massachusetts, U.S. – April 20, 2026 Kenya’s John Korir crosses the finish line to win the men’s elite race REUTERS/Cj Gunther   John Korir of Kenya won his second straight Boston Marathon on Monday morning, setting a course record in the 130th edition of the race with a time of 2:01:52.  Korir, 29, took the lead just before the 20-mile mark, gradually building his advantage and finishing 55 seconds ahead of Alphonce Simbo of Tanzania. Benson Kipruto of Kenya, the 2021 winner, finished third.  Korir, whose brother Wesley also won the Boston Marathon in 2012, broke Geoffrey Mutai’s 2011 course record by 70 seconds. He is just the second man since 2008 to win back-to-back Boston Marathons, joining countryman Evans Chebet (2022-23).  Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi, 32, also repeated as Boston Marathon champion on the women’s side, finishing in a time of 2:18:51, 89 seconds slower than the course record she set in 2025. Kenya’s Loice Chemnung finished second, 44 seconds back.   Zouhair Talbi, a Moroccan-born runner now representing the U.S., was the top American finisher in the men’s race. He was fifth overall with a time of 2:03:45, breaking his previous personal record by two minutes on the nose.  Jess McClain, the top American woman, also came in fifth with a time of 2:20:49, a new personal best by nearly two minutes.  –Field Level Media   #Deadspin #Kenyan #pair #repeat #Boston #Marathon #John #Korir #breaks #recordBoston Marathon – Boston, Massachusetts, U.S. – April 20, 2026 Kenya’s John Korir crosses the finish line to win the men’s elite race REUTERS/Cj Gunther

John Korir of Kenya won his second straight Boston Marathon on Monday morning, setting a course record in the 130th edition of the race with a time of 2:01:52.

Korir, 29, took the lead just before the 20-mile mark, gradually building his advantage and finishing 55 seconds ahead of Alphonce Simbo of Tanzania. Benson Kipruto of Kenya, the 2021 winner, finished third.

Korir, whose brother Wesley also won the Boston Marathon in 2012, broke Geoffrey Mutai’s 2011 course record by 70 seconds. He is just the second man since 2008 to win back-to-back Boston Marathons, joining countryman Evans Chebet (2022-23).


Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi, 32, also repeated as Boston Marathon champion on the women’s side, finishing in a time of 2:18:51, 89 seconds slower than the course record she set in 2025. Kenya’s Loice Chemnung finished second, 44 seconds back.

Zouhair Talbi, a Moroccan-born runner now representing the U.S., was the top American finisher in the men’s race. He was fifth overall with a time of 2:03:45, breaking his previous personal record by two minutes on the nose.

Jess McClain, the top American woman, also came in fifth with a time of 2:20:49, a new personal best by nearly two minutes.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Kenyan #pair #repeat #Boston #Marathon #John #Korir #breaks #record

Boston Marathon – Boston, Massachusetts, U.S. – April 20, 2026 Kenya’s John Korir crosses the finish line to win the men’s elite race REUTERS/Cj Gunther

John Korir of Kenya won his second straight Boston Marathon on Monday morning, setting a course record in the 130th edition of the race with a time of 2:01:52.

Korir, 29, took the lead just before the 20-mile mark, gradually building his advantage and finishing 55 seconds ahead of Alphonce Simbo of Tanzania. Benson Kipruto of Kenya, the 2021 winner, finished third.

Korir, whose brother Wesley also won the Boston Marathon in 2012, broke Geoffrey Mutai’s 2011 course record by 70 seconds. He is just the second man since 2008 to win back-to-back Boston Marathons, joining countryman Evans Chebet (2022-23).

Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi, 32, also repeated as Boston Marathon champion on the women’s side, finishing in a time of 2:18:51, 89 seconds slower than the course record she set in 2025. Kenya’s Loice Chemnung finished second, 44 seconds back.

Zouhair Talbi, a Moroccan-born runner now representing the U.S., was the top American finisher in the men’s race. He was fifth overall with a time of 2:03:45, breaking his previous personal record by two minutes on the nose.

Jess McClain, the top American woman, also came in fifth with a time of 2:20:49, a new personal best by nearly two minutes.

–Field Level Media

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#Deadspin #Kenyan #pair #repeat #Boston #Marathon #John #Korir #breaks #record

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Every NFL quarterback’s pro wrestling counterpart <p class="has-text-align-none"><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/wrestling/1111456/wrestlemania-2026-review-match-grades-cody-rhodes-randy-orton-cm-punk-roman-reigns">WrestleMania weekend has come and gone</a>, and frankly, I don’t know how you weren’t leaping out of your seat to watch a former punter who already appears on every sports related TV show overshadow the WWE championship match between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton – a pair of men who’s history dates back two decades. WWE, everybody! Just when you think they can’t mess up the easiest of layups, they turn around and launch a full-court shot into the other net. I fully expected Jason Kelce and/or Bert Kreischer to get involved in the match somehow as Terry Funk turned over in his grave.</p> <p class="has-text-align-none">Bad booking aside, let’s have fun and combine the worlds of professional wrestling and the NFL – because they aren’t very different at the end of the day. Sure, the squared circle and the gridiron lack similarities, but what helps make the NFL our pastime? The drama. </p> <p class="has-text-align-none">What do we love more than anything at this time of year? The storylines off the field. Who wants to be on a new team? Who is angry at their team owner? What players are beefing with one another? It’s the same as pro wrestling. Even in season, drama drives the NFL. We spent all of 2025 wondering if A.J. Brown would get traded and monitoring his social media to see what he said next. At the end of the season, Todd Bowles cut a scathing promo on his own team. Sam Darnold completed the ultimate underdog storyline of cast-off to world champion – everything is professional wrestling.</p> <p class="has-text-align-none">So, with that in mind, ahead of the biggest weekend on the wrestling calendar (unless All In 2026 tops it, which it very well could), today we’re comparing quarterbacks to wrestlers. Ring the bell.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Patrick Mahomes: Kenny Omega</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2193696560.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="TOKYO, JAPAN - JANUARY 05: Kenny Omega enters the ring during the New Japan Pro-Wrestling - Wrestle Dynasty at Tokyo Dome on January 05, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Etsuo Hara/Getty Images) | Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">When Mahomes became the Kansas City Chiefs’ starter in 2018, he immediately revolutionized the position with 50 touchdown passes in an MVP season. much like Omega took the pro wrestling scene by storm in the mid 2010s in New Japan Pro Wrestling, and eventually helped start All Elite Wrestling. Five Super Bowl appearances and three championships later, he is unquestionably one of the five best quarterbacks the game has ever seen. And coming off the back of yet another superb pay-per-view main event match against MJF at AEW Dynasty, Omega continues to cement his own legacy as one of the best to ever step foot in a squared circle.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Justin Herbert: Sami Zayn</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2269119899.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - APRIL 3: Sami Zayn enters the ring during SmackDown at Enterprise Center on April 3, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Georgiana Dallas/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">You couldn’t find anyone who would say a bad word about Sami Zayn for the first decade that he was in WWE. His NXT run was tremendous, and his inclusion in the Bloodline saga earned universal praise. That said, over the last 18 months, Zayn’s “underdog” character has grown incredibly stale and some of us (points at self) have never been huge Sami Zayn guys. Herbert came out of the gates with unmatched speed, throwing 69 touchdowns in his first two seasons and topping 5,000 yards in Year Two. That said, he is 0-3 in the postseason and has yet to perform well in a playoff game, causing many to wonder if all the praise is really warranted.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Kirk Cousins: Dolph Ziggler</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-1024623482.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="Professional Wrestling: WWE SummerSlam: Dolph Ziggler and Seth Rollins in action during event at Barclays Center. Brooklyn, NY 8/19/2018 CREDIT: Rob Tringali (Photo by Rob Tringali /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (Set Number: X162079 TK1 )" data-portal-copyright="" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">The real life Nic Nemeth was far more outspoken and flashy than Cousins during his WWE run, but this focuses more on career arc. Ziggler was never seen as a WrestleMania main venter, but he was an incredibly steady hand in the mid-card that could win the United States or Intercontinental Championship on any given night.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Bo Nix: Charlie Haas</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-76443277.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="Charlie Haas puts Snitzky in a headlock during the WWE RAW Summerslam event at the Acer Arena, Homebush Stadium in Sydney, Australia on August 4, 2006. (Photo by Don Arnold/WireImage) *** Local Caption ***" data-portal-copyright="" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Haas was one half of the world’s greatest tag team with Shelton Benjamin, who formed an alliance with Kurt Angle. Of the three, he’s the one who is least remembered. If the Broncos are Team Angle, the defense is Kurt Angle, Courtland Sutton and Jaylen Waddle are Benjamin, and Nix is Haas.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Aaron Rodgers: CM Punk</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2270138549.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 6: CM Punk speaks during Monday Night RAW at Toyota Center on April 6, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Craig Ambrosio/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Cranky guy in his 40’s who has had multiple teased returns over the years? Now, Punk is straightedge and Rodgers notably does whatever hallucinogen lets him talk to banana trees, but go back and watch Punk’s press conference after All Out in 2022. “I’m hurt, I’m old, I’m f—king tired, and I work with f—king children.” He and Rodgers are two pissed off peas in a pod – which may be why I enjoy both of them so much.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Lamar Jackson: Rob Van Dam</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2216815366.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="NORTH LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS - OCTOBER 20: Rob Van Dam makes his entrance during No Mercy at the Alltel Arena on October 20, 2002 in North Little Rock, Arkansas. (Photo by WWE/WWE via Getty Images.) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">It’s fitting that RVD’s theme music starts out with a voice shouting, “One of a kind.” His combination of high-flying moves and martial arts is still a combination that has been unmatched and is impossible to replicate. We haven’t seen another RVD, and we likely won’t see another Lamar Jackson in terms of his ability to run the ball while also tossing 40 touchdowns in a season.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Joe Burrow: Cody Rhodes</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2254425097.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="BUFFALO, NEW YORK - JANUARY 2: Cody Rhodes looks on in the ring during SmackDown at KeyBank Center on January 2, 2026 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Rich Freeda/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Fashionable faces of the franchise. Neither afraid to speak their minds and be honest when they clearly don’t think things are working (go watch any podcast Rhodes has done in the last week where he clearly hates the McAfee stuff). Both were also big underdogs. Burrow left Ohio State and bet on himself at LSU, which is what Rhodes did when he left WWE in 2016 and went on an incredible run on the Indies, which lead to him being one of the founding fathers of AEW. Now, both are at the very top of their respective professions.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Shedeur Sanders: Curtis Axel</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-643915288.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="DUESSELDORF, GERMANY - FEBRUARY 22: Curtis Axel arrives during to the WWE Live Duesseldorf event at ISS Dome on February 22, 2017 in Duesseldorf, Germany. (Photo by Lukas Schulze/Bongarts/Getty Images) | Bongarts/Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="Bongarts/Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">His dad was Mr. Perfect, and he… well, he wasn’t good. Need I say more? I’m sure there will be plenty of “against all odds” compilations this year, though.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Josh Allen: Mick Foley</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-125456493.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="Mick Foley onstage at Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert's "Rally to Restore Sanity and/or Fear" on October 30, 2010 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Paul Morigi/WireImage)" data-portal-copyright="" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Much like Mrs. Foley’s baby boy, Josh Allen takes a lickin’ and keeps on tickin’. Both guys are incredibly easy to root for and will die trying to win. It took Foley a long time to win his first world championship, and the crowd was in a state of pure euphoria when he defeated The Rock in January, 1999. When Allen finally does win a Super Bowl for the city of Buffalo, it will be instantly emotional and a massive weight off the back of one of the game’s top stars, as well as the city he represents.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Drake Maye: Randy Orton</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-112880700.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="Randy Orton wins the triple threat match during WrestleMania XXIV at the Citrus Bowl on Sunday, March 30, 2008, in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Red Huber/Orlando Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)" data-portal-copyright="" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Think Evolution era Randy Orton, who was the youngest wrestler to ever win the World Heavyweight Championship at age 24. It was evident right away that Orton was talented and going to be great for a long time, which is how he has carved out a 24-year career that sees him challenging to win his 15th world title this weekend. Maye is only entering his third season, and was an MVP finalist and took his team to the Super Bowl in just his second season – the best is yet to come. It is also perfect that Orton lost in the main event of Night One like Maye lost in the Super Bowl.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Geno Smith: Bobby Lashley</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2213426802.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="FORT WORTH, TEXAS - MAY 04: WWE wrestler, Bobby Lashley speaks onstage during pre-race ceremonies prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Würth 400 at Texas Motor Speedway on May 04, 2025 in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images) | Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Lashley was once thought to be the next big thing in WWE. He won the WWECW Championship early on in his first run with the company, but never turned into that main event star. An MMA run accompanied by a terrific run in TNA, though, brought him back to WWE where he won multiple world championships. Smith resurrected his career in Seattle, but now is hoping to do so again with the Jets. If he has anything close to a run like Lashley is back to having with The Hurt Syndicate, that would be a big win for him and New York. *Obligatory “WE HURT PEOPLE” chant here.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Malik Willis: Kofi Kingston (Pre-New Day)</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-131076583.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 31: Kofi Kingston celebrates during the WWE Monday Night Raw Supershow Halloween event at the Philips Arena on October 31, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Moses Robinson/Getty Images) | Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Kofi Kingston was a good mid-card wrestler in the early portion of his career. He won the Intercontinental Championship, Tag Team Championships, and United States Championship to solidify himself as a mainstay on <em>Raw</em> and <em>Smackdown</em>, but was never a world championship threat. Right now, that’s where Malik Willis is hovering, and the Dolphins haven’t exactly set him up for success after trading Jaylen Waddle to the Broncos. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Trevor Lawrence: Lex Luger</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2209764402.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="UNSPECIFIED, UNSPECIFIED- DATE UNKNOWN: WWE Legend Lex Luger poses in the ring in 1994. (Photo by WWE/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Luger was WWF’s hopeful next Hulk Hogan, which was a label that was insurmountable, much like the lofty expectations placed on Lawrence before he played an NFL snap. That doesn’t mean he hasn’t been good, though. He led the Jaguars to a playoff win in 2021 after surviving the Urban Meyer debacle. And in 2025 in his first season under Liam Coen, Lawrence put up over 4,000 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, leading the Jaguars to 13 wins and a playoff berth. Should he continue to stack seasons like that, Jacksonville can become one of the marquee teams in the AFC.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Cam Ward: Trick Williams</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2270257282.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 10: Trick Williams enters the arena during SmackDown at SAP Center on April 10, 2026 in San Jose, California. (Photo by Andrea Kellaway/WWE Via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">There is clearly <em>something</em> there with Cam Ward. Some of the throws he made in 2025 despite having the worst offense in football around him was astounding. With Trick Williams, there is star potential. He is good in the ring, has a great look, and an even better entrance that gets the crowd exited to see him. He defeated Sami Zayn for the United States championship to a massive pop. He has a bright future in WWE, as does Ward with the Titans.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">C.J. Stroud: Sammy Guevara</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-1238113320.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="CLEVELAND, OH - JANUARY 26: Sammy Guevara in the ring during AEW Dynamite on January 26, 2022, at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland, OH. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="Icon Sportswire via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Guevara started his AEW career with a bang, appearing in the first match in <em>AEW Dynamite</em> history against Cody Rhodes and was part of the top heel group in the company alongside Chris Jericho. However, despite multiple TNT title wins, fans soured on the high-flyer <em>hard</em> during his heel run alongside real-life wife Tay Melo. He has largely been relegated to <em>Ring of Honor</em> over the last two years. For Stroud, he needs to recapture that magic he found as a rookie if the Texans want to make it past the divisional round, and if he wants to be considered the long-term answer in Houston.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Daniel Jones: Baron Corbin</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2162996713.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="OMAHA, NEBRASKA - JULY 26: Baron Corbin and Angel in action during SmackDown at CHI Health Center on July 26, 2024 in Omaha, Nebraska. (Photo by WWE/Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">The real-life Tom Pestock seems like a lovely guy – the WWE character Baron Corbin was a steaming bowl of feces. Yet, WWE constantly shoved him down the throats of fans. That may sound mean to Daniel Jones, but he’s somehow been a starter in the NFL every year since 2019 while posting a record of 32-49-1. He had a good first half of 2025, but that’s not enough to say he’s now all of a sudden a good quarterback. And yet, the Colts still gave him the GDP of the city of Indianapolis.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Matthew Stafford: Jon Moxley</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2157469158.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="CLEVELAND, OH - JUNE15: Jon Moxley in the ring during AEW Collision on June 15, at the Covelli Centre in Youngstown, OH. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="Icon Sportswire via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Moxley fka Dean Ambrose left WWE in 2019 after being part of one of the most important groups in wrestling history, The Shield. After suffering through bad creative, he bet on himself and joined AEW as one of its first major signings, and he has never looked back, becoming the ace of All Elite Wrestling in a run that has featured multiple world title reigns, an IWGP world championship reign, and several other notable accolades. Stafford was a good quarterback with the Detroit Lions, but was never going to reach the heights he did had he stayed in Detroit. A Super Bowl ring and MVP later, his time in Los Angeles will be remembered far more than his time with Detroit.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Sam Darnold: Drew McIntyre</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2265200839.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="PORTLAND, OREGON - MARCH 06: Drew McIntyre makes his entrance during SmackDown at Moda Center on March 6, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Bradlee Rutledge/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none"><em>Out of time, so say goodbye<br>What is yours, now is mine<br>And I dream broken dreams<br>I make them come true</em></p> <p class="has-text-align-none">Why WWE took away that awesome theme song, no one will ever know. </p> <p class="has-text-align-none">McIntyre was tabbed as a prodigy when he debuted in WWE in the late 2000s. He never made it to the main event scene, and was relegated to a comedy act in 3MB alongside Jinder Mahal and Heath Slater. He left WWE and went on a career resurging independent run that saw him return to WWE much bulkier and looking like the main event star he was once promised to be, which has resulted in multiple world title reigns. Sam Darnold was once written off after failed stints with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, and just completed his own resurrection with a Super Bowl win.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Brock Purdy: Diamond Dallas Page</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2212323423.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="BUFFALO, NEW YORK- FEBRUARY 8: Hulk Hogan and Diamond Dallas Page pose for photos behind the scenes during Monday Nitro on February 8, 1999 at the Marine Midland Arena in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by WWE/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">DDP was once a manager in WCW. Yet slowly but surely, he became a star in the ring, which culminated in him becoming one of the stars top performers. He won the WCW championship three times and was a fan-favorite up until WCW folding in 2001. We all know Purdy’s story by this point, going from the final pick of the draft to starting in the Super Bowl. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Jacoby Brissett: 1999 Jeff Jarrett</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-666707.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="372234 03: WCW wrestler Jeff Jarrett attends the Licensing International 2000, June 14, 2000 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City. (Photo by Stan Godlewski/Getty Images) | Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">In 1999, Jeff Jarrett demanded $300,000 from the WWE to lose the Intercontinental Championship before leaving for WCW. Jeff Jarrett largely over-valued himself, much like Jacoby Brissett is right now by wanting more money from the Arizona Cardinals.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Jordan Love: Batista</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2207922685.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="ATLANTA, GEORGIA- MARCH 14: WWE Legend Batista enters the ring during Monday Night RAW on March 14, 2005 at the Gwinnett Center in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by WWE/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Batista was grown under the tutelage of Triple H in Evolution before breaking out as a star of his own. Love was drafted while Aaron Rodgers was still at the peak of his powers. However, since taking over as the starter, he has proven to be one of the game’s top quarterbacks, putting Green Bay in the postseason in each of his first three seasons at the helm. He even beat his mentor in 2025 the same way Batista defeated Triple H for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMani 21.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Caleb Williams: Penta</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2271616056.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - APRIL 19: Penta celebrates after retaining the Intercontinental Champion Title during WrestleMania 42: Night 2 at Allegiant Stadium on April 19, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Mike Marques/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Penta is so exciting to watch. His in-ring speed, and mix of lucha style and technical prowess makes him as unique a wrestler as there is. His flamboyant entrance with a sassy strut has also gotten him even more over with the crowd. Williams has become one of the most clutch performers in front of our eyes, painted nails, matcha, and all. He is as fun on the field as Penta is in the ring.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Jared Goff: Claudio Castagnolli</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2157469366.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="CLEVELAND, OH - JUNE15: Claudio Castagnoli in the ring during AEW Collision on June 15, at the Covelli Centre in Youngstown, OH. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="Icon Sportswire via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">The former Cesaro in WWE needed a change of scenery, and he has been terrific since joining AEW. With runs as a trios champions, CMLL World Champion, and Ring of Honor world champion, the Swiss Superman has been one of the mainstays of AEW TV.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Kyler Murray: Johnny Gargano</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2155913552.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - JUNE 07: Johnny Gargano holds up a fan sign during SmackDown at KFC YUM! Center on June 7, 2024 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by WWE/Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Gargano was one of the biggest stars in the Black and Gold era of NXT, but has yet to find a real spot for himself since being called up to the main roster. Murray was terrific at Oklahoma, but never reached the expectations placed upon him in Arizona. Perhaps a new home in Minnesota can lead to sustained success.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Dak Prescott: Seth Rollins</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2238205062.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - SEPTEMBER 29: Seth Rollins make's his entrance during Monday Night RAW at Lenovo Center on September 29, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Craig Melvin/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">There are times where Dak Prescott looks like a top five quarterback in football, but injuries have become a concern with him, as they have with Rollins as their respective careers progress. All eyes are always on both, as well, as Rollins has been one of the faces of WWE for over a decade, and Prescott leads America’s team.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Jayden Daniels: Je’Von Evans</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2267627832.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MARCH 23: Je'Von Evans in action against Grayson Waller during Monday Night RAW at TD Garden on March 23, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Rich Freeda/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Je’Von Evans may not be the biggest wrestler on earth (he’s billed at 195 pounds), but my goodness, he things he does when his number is called are breathtaking. Bouncing around the ring like a human rubber band, he has quickly become one of the sport’s top high-flyers at age 21. The concerns about Jayden Daniels’ frame died down in 2024 when he led the Commanders to the NFC championship Game as a rookie. And while injuries caught up to him in 2025, he has cut down on playing the position like he’s in the newest <em>Jackass </em>movie, and is one of the NFL’s top dual threats.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Jalen Hurts: The Miz</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2263400484.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - FEBRUARY 27: The Miz speaks during SmackDown at KFC YUM! Center on February 27, 2026 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Mike Marques/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Accomplished, but boring and always leaves you wanting more. Credit to The Mix, he came from the very bottom and has put together a career in WWE that has spanned more than 20 years. But, no one is putting a Miz match in their top 10. Hurts has become very polarizing because while he helped the Eagles win a Super Bowl, his struggles in 2025 have many wondering and debating where his place is in the quarterback hierarchy.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Jaxson Dart: Nick Wayne</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2233771056.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="TOKYO, JAPAN - MAY 14: Nick Wayne enters the ring during the New Japan Pro-Wrestling at Korakuen Hall on May 14, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Etsuo Hara/Getty Images) | Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Wayne has been heralded as the future of pro wrestling. At just 20 years old, he is the current Ring of Honor World Television Champion and was part of one of AEW’s top stories, coming up under Christian Cage before betraying him in July of 2025. His presence and swagger is similar to that of Dart, who himself came into the NFL under Russell Wilson on the New York Giants depth chart.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Baker Mayfield: LA Knight</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2269155278.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 30: LA Knight make's his entrance during Monday Night RAW at Madison Square Garden on March 30, 2026 in New York, New York. (Photo by Craig Melvin/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Baker Mayfield is one of the best trash talkers in the NFL, and his wrestling counterpart is one of the best on the mic in all of wrestling.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Bryce Young: Cedric Alexander</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-960416454.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="PARIS, FRANCE - MAY 19: Cedric Alexander (L) in action vs Mustafa Ali during WWE Live AccorHotels Arena Popb Paris Bercy on May 19, 2018 in Paris, France. (Photo by Sylvain Lefevre/Getty Images) | Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Many believed that Cedric Alexander could have broken out into a nice mid-card star in WWE. Unfortunately, that never happened on a consistent basis. Some say it’s a size issue, which is the biggest limiting factor for Young.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Tyler Shough: Ricky Saints</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2266709424.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 17: Ricky Saints makes his entrance during NXT at the 713 Music Hall on March 17, 2026 in Houston, Texas, United States. (Photo by Rich Wade/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Saints is a bit older than most in NXT, much like Shough was older for a college player. However, the talent is very evident and the future is bright for both Shough and Saints.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Tua Tagovailoa: Jey Uso</h2> <img src="https://platform.sbnation.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/04/gettyimages-2262737504.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="ATLANTA, GEORGIA - FEBRUARY 23: Jey Uso in ring during Monday Night RAW at State Farm Arena on February 23, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Bradlee Rutledge/WWE via Getty Images) | WWE via Getty Images" data-portal-copyright="WWE via Getty Images" /> <p class="has-text-align-none">Yeah, Jey Uso is a big no from me. He’s bad in the ring, awful on the mic, and whomever green lit “Yeet” should be charged with crimes against humanity. Tagovailoa isn’t good either, but Dolphins fans still spent years trying to convince themselves he was.</p> #NFL #quarterbacks #pro #wrestling #counterpart

Deadspin | Bryan Woo sets down 15 straight as Mariners drop Rangers  Apr 19, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners starter Bryan Woo (22) delivers a pitch during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images   Bryan Woo pitched seven strong innings for his first victory of the season and was backed by three home runs as the Seattle Mariners defeated the visiting Texas Rangers 5-2 on Sunday afternoon.  Rob Refsnyder, J.P. Crawford and Randy Arozarena went deep to account for all the runs for the Mariners, who took two of three games from their American League West rivals.  Woo (1-2) allowed two runs on four hits. The right-hander walked one and struck out six. Andres Munoz struck out three in the ninth — the first reached base on a wild pitch — and got Evan Carter to ground out to first to earn his third save.  The Rangers’ Brandon Nimmo lined Woo’s first pitch of the game into right for a single, but he was erased when Wyatt Langford grounded into an inning-ending double play.  The Rangers didn’t have another baserunner until Josh Smith lined a one-out single to right in the sixth.  Texas finally got to Woo in the seventh as Corey Seager led off with a walk, Langford singled on a soft liner to left and, with one out, Joc Pederson was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Josh Jung’s sacrifice fly to right spoiled the shutout bid and Carter’s double into the right field corner made it 5-2. Woo got Smith to ground to second to end the inning.   Rangers left-hander MacKenzie Gore (2-2) gave up five runs on seven hits over five innings with one walk and five strikeouts. Gore, who didn’t allow a hit on a curveball during his first four starts of the season, allowed four off that pitch Sunday — including the homers by Crawford and Arozarena.  Refsnyder, who came into the game 0-for-18 for the season, lined Gore’s first-pitch fastball over the left field wall leading off the bottom of the first.  The Mariners added to their lead in the second as Mitch Garver drew a leadoff walk and, one out later, Crawford went deep to right to make it 3-0.  With two outs in the fifth, Julio Rodriguez lined a single to left and Arozarena homered off the left field pole to extend the lead to 5-0.  –Field Level Media   #Deadspin #Bryan #Woo #sets #straight #Mariners #drop #RangersApr 19, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners starter Bryan Woo (22) delivers a pitch during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

Bryan Woo pitched seven strong innings for his first victory of the season and was backed by three home runs as the Seattle Mariners defeated the visiting Texas Rangers 5-2 on Sunday afternoon.

Rob Refsnyder, J.P. Crawford and Randy Arozarena went deep to account for all the runs for the Mariners, who took two of three games from their American League West rivals.

Woo (1-2) allowed two runs on four hits. The right-hander walked one and struck out six. Andres Munoz struck out three in the ninth — the first reached base on a wild pitch — and got Evan Carter to ground out to first to earn his third save.

The Rangers’ Brandon Nimmo lined Woo’s first pitch of the game into right for a single, but he was erased when Wyatt Langford grounded into an inning-ending double play.

The Rangers didn’t have another baserunner until Josh Smith lined a one-out single to right in the sixth.


Texas finally got to Woo in the seventh as Corey Seager led off with a walk, Langford singled on a soft liner to left and, with one out, Joc Pederson was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Josh Jung’s sacrifice fly to right spoiled the shutout bid and Carter’s double into the right field corner made it 5-2. Woo got Smith to ground to second to end the inning.

Rangers left-hander MacKenzie Gore (2-2) gave up five runs on seven hits over five innings with one walk and five strikeouts. Gore, who didn’t allow a hit on a curveball during his first four starts of the season, allowed four off that pitch Sunday — including the homers by Crawford and Arozarena.

Refsnyder, who came into the game 0-for-18 for the season, lined Gore’s first-pitch fastball over the left field wall leading off the bottom of the first.

The Mariners added to their lead in the second as Mitch Garver drew a leadoff walk and, one out later, Crawford went deep to right to make it 3-0.

With two outs in the fifth, Julio Rodriguez lined a single to left and Arozarena homered off the left field pole to extend the lead to 5-0.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Bryan #Woo #sets #straight #Mariners #drop #Rangers">Deadspin | Bryan Woo sets down 15 straight as Mariners drop Rangers  Apr 19, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners starter Bryan Woo (22) delivers a pitch during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images   Bryan Woo pitched seven strong innings for his first victory of the season and was backed by three home runs as the Seattle Mariners defeated the visiting Texas Rangers 5-2 on Sunday afternoon.  Rob Refsnyder, J.P. Crawford and Randy Arozarena went deep to account for all the runs for the Mariners, who took two of three games from their American League West rivals.  Woo (1-2) allowed two runs on four hits. The right-hander walked one and struck out six. Andres Munoz struck out three in the ninth — the first reached base on a wild pitch — and got Evan Carter to ground out to first to earn his third save.  The Rangers’ Brandon Nimmo lined Woo’s first pitch of the game into right for a single, but he was erased when Wyatt Langford grounded into an inning-ending double play.  The Rangers didn’t have another baserunner until Josh Smith lined a one-out single to right in the sixth.  Texas finally got to Woo in the seventh as Corey Seager led off with a walk, Langford singled on a soft liner to left and, with one out, Joc Pederson was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Josh Jung’s sacrifice fly to right spoiled the shutout bid and Carter’s double into the right field corner made it 5-2. Woo got Smith to ground to second to end the inning.   Rangers left-hander MacKenzie Gore (2-2) gave up five runs on seven hits over five innings with one walk and five strikeouts. Gore, who didn’t allow a hit on a curveball during his first four starts of the season, allowed four off that pitch Sunday — including the homers by Crawford and Arozarena.  Refsnyder, who came into the game 0-for-18 for the season, lined Gore’s first-pitch fastball over the left field wall leading off the bottom of the first.  The Mariners added to their lead in the second as Mitch Garver drew a leadoff walk and, one out later, Crawford went deep to right to make it 3-0.  With two outs in the fifth, Julio Rodriguez lined a single to left and Arozarena homered off the left field pole to extend the lead to 5-0.  –Field Level Media   #Deadspin #Bryan #Woo #sets #straight #Mariners #drop #Rangers

Deadspin | Blue Jays score 8 runs in first in rout of Diamondbacks  Apr 19, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman in the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images   Kazuma Okamoto homered, doubled and drove in three runs, Nathan Lukes had three hits and three RBIs, and the Toronto Blue Jays used an eight-run first inning to cruise to a 10-4 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks in Phoenix on Sunday.  Okamoto had a two-run double in the first and leadoff man Lukes had two hits in the frame, including a three-run double to cap the big inning off Ryne Nelson (1-2), who retired one of the 10 batters he faced.  Vladimir Guerrero had three hits and two RBIs to extend his hitting streak to 10 games and Ernie Clement had two doubles as the Jays broke a four-game losing streak while tying season highs for runs and hits.  Okamoto homered in the third, his third of the season and first since March 30. He was in a 2 for 28 skid until singling twice in Arizona’s 6-2 win Saturday.  Jorge Barrosa had a two-run homer and Adrian Del Castillo had two hits and an RBI-double for the D-Backs, who had won four in a row and 10 of 13.  Barrosa replaced Corbin Carroll in the top of the fifth inning after Carroll left with low back tightness, the Diamondbacks said.   Kevin Gausman (1-1) gave up two runs on seven hits in six innings, with four strikeouts and one walk.  D-Backs first baseman Ildemaro Vargas had a single to extend his season-opening hitting streak to 15 games, a franchise record. He has an 18-game hitting streak dating to last September, the longest active streak in the majors.  The Jays had seven straight hits to open the game off Nelson and led 2-0 after eight pitches, 5-0 after 20 pitches and 8-0 after 30 pitches when Lukes’s three-run double knocked out Nelson.  Guerrero had a two-run single, Eloy Jimenez singled in a run and Okamoto had a two-run double to give the Jays a 5-0 lead. After a walk and a strikeout, Lukes lined an opposite field double into the left-field corner.  –Field Level Media   #Deadspin #Blue #Jays #score #runs #rout #DiamondbacksApr 19, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman in the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Kazuma Okamoto homered, doubled and drove in three runs, Nathan Lukes had three hits and three RBIs, and the Toronto Blue Jays used an eight-run first inning to cruise to a 10-4 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks in Phoenix on Sunday.

Okamoto had a two-run double in the first and leadoff man Lukes had two hits in the frame, including a three-run double to cap the big inning off Ryne Nelson (1-2), who retired one of the 10 batters he faced.

Vladimir Guerrero had three hits and two RBIs to extend his hitting streak to 10 games and Ernie Clement had two doubles as the Jays broke a four-game losing streak while tying season highs for runs and hits.

Okamoto homered in the third, his third of the season and first since March 30. He was in a 2 for 28 skid until singling twice in Arizona’s 6-2 win Saturday.

Jorge Barrosa had a two-run homer and Adrian Del Castillo had two hits and an RBI-double for the D-Backs, who had won four in a row and 10 of 13.


Barrosa replaced Corbin Carroll in the top of the fifth inning after Carroll left with low back tightness, the Diamondbacks said.

Kevin Gausman (1-1) gave up two runs on seven hits in six innings, with four strikeouts and one walk.

D-Backs first baseman Ildemaro Vargas had a single to extend his season-opening hitting streak to 15 games, a franchise record. He has an 18-game hitting streak dating to last September, the longest active streak in the majors.

The Jays had seven straight hits to open the game off Nelson and led 2-0 after eight pitches, 5-0 after 20 pitches and 8-0 after 30 pitches when Lukes’s three-run double knocked out Nelson.

Guerrero had a two-run single, Eloy Jimenez singled in a run and Okamoto had a two-run double to give the Jays a 5-0 lead. After a walk and a strikeout, Lukes lined an opposite field double into the left-field corner.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Blue #Jays #score #runs #rout #Diamondbacks">Deadspin | Blue Jays score 8 runs in first in rout of Diamondbacks  Apr 19, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman in the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images   Kazuma Okamoto homered, doubled and drove in three runs, Nathan Lukes had three hits and three RBIs, and the Toronto Blue Jays used an eight-run first inning to cruise to a 10-4 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks in Phoenix on Sunday.  Okamoto had a two-run double in the first and leadoff man Lukes had two hits in the frame, including a three-run double to cap the big inning off Ryne Nelson (1-2), who retired one of the 10 batters he faced.  Vladimir Guerrero had three hits and two RBIs to extend his hitting streak to 10 games and Ernie Clement had two doubles as the Jays broke a four-game losing streak while tying season highs for runs and hits.  Okamoto homered in the third, his third of the season and first since March 30. He was in a 2 for 28 skid until singling twice in Arizona’s 6-2 win Saturday.  Jorge Barrosa had a two-run homer and Adrian Del Castillo had two hits and an RBI-double for the D-Backs, who had won four in a row and 10 of 13.  Barrosa replaced Corbin Carroll in the top of the fifth inning after Carroll left with low back tightness, the Diamondbacks said.   Kevin Gausman (1-1) gave up two runs on seven hits in six innings, with four strikeouts and one walk.  D-Backs first baseman Ildemaro Vargas had a single to extend his season-opening hitting streak to 15 games, a franchise record. He has an 18-game hitting streak dating to last September, the longest active streak in the majors.  The Jays had seven straight hits to open the game off Nelson and led 2-0 after eight pitches, 5-0 after 20 pitches and 8-0 after 30 pitches when Lukes’s three-run double knocked out Nelson.  Guerrero had a two-run single, Eloy Jimenez singled in a run and Okamoto had a two-run double to give the Jays a 5-0 lead. After a walk and a strikeout, Lukes lined an opposite field double into the left-field corner.  –Field Level Media   #Deadspin #Blue #Jays #score #runs #rout #Diamondbacks

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