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Deadspin | Nationals have hands full with Matt Olson, Braves: ‘They’re really good’ Apr 15, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) reacts as he runs after hitting a home run against the Miami Marlins during the seventh inning at Truist Park. All players are wearing number 42 today in honor of Jackie Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images Matt Olson will look to continue his success at Nationals Park when the Atlanta Braves visit the Washington Nationals for the second game of their four-game series Tuesday night. The Atlanta first baseman smacked a two-run homer to center and added a sacrifice fly in the Braves 9-4 win on Monday night, their sixth in a row. Washington’s James Wood also robbed Olson of a homer at the fence in right field. “We hit a lot of balls hard tonight,” Braves manager Walt Weiss said Monday. “That wind was blowing in. The fact that that ball Olson hit got out to center was a miracle the way the wind was blowing in. He might have had three homers tonight without any wind.” Olson’s numbers might be ready for a boost anyway given his history at Nationals Park. Over the course of the 32-year-old’s career, Olson has played 30 games at the stadium. He has 13 homers, 35 RBIs and a batting average of .367. The 13 home runs are more than he has hit in every stadium except the two parks he has called home — he previously played for the Athletics — and Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, where he has parked 15 balls over the outfield wall. Atlanta’s Ronald Acuna, Jr. left the game in the sixth inning after being hit by a Jake Irvin pitch for the second time in the game, this one on the left hand. Acuna is day-to-day and Weiss said X-rays were negative. “We feel pretty good about it,” Weiss said. “That’s where we’re at. We don’t have any plans for an MRI.” Irvin said neither pitch was intentional. “We’re trying to go in,” he said. “It’s unfortunate. Atlanta right-hander Reynaldo Lopez (1-0, 2.18) will oppose left-hander Foster Griffin (2-0, 3.05) on Tuesday. Griffin turned in three strong starts to open the season but struggled the last time out against Pittsburgh on Thursday. He held the Pirates scoreless for the first four innings but ultimately gave up four runs on eight hits over 5 1/3 innings, striking out seven and walking one. The Nationals pulled off an 8-7 win in 10 innings, but Griffin didn’t figure into the decision. He has never faced the Braves. Lopez is 0-1 with a 4.76 ERA in four career starts against the Nationals. He gave up four runs (three earned) on five hits in five innings of a no-decision against the Miami Marlins in his April 14 start, won 6-5 by the Braves. It was the first time in four starts that he had given up more than one earned run. The Nationals took the lead twice on Monday but could not hold it. Daylen Lile homered, but Washington was held to three hits and fell to 2-8 at home on a night that they committed two errors in addition to hitting Acuna. “We know we have to play really good baseball against this team; they’re really good,” Nationals manager Blake Butera said after the game on Monday. “We made too many mistakes tonight to beat this club. We’ll address it, we’ll fix it and be ready to go tomorrow.” Lile has hits in 18 of 22 games played this year. Irvin was perfect through three innings but was later lifted after five innings and 68 pitches. He gave up four runs (three earned). Atlanta’s Drake Baldwin had two hits, drove in two runs and scored twice. He has 10 multi-hit games this season. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Nationals #hands #full #Matt #Olson #Braves #Theyre #good

Deadspin | Nationals have hands full with Matt Olson, Braves: ‘They’re really good’
Deadspin | Nationals have hands full with Matt Olson, Braves: ‘They’re really good’ Apr 15, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) reacts as he runs after hitting a home run against the Miami Marlins during the seventh inning at Truist Park. All players are wearing number 42 today in honor of Jackie Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images Matt Olson will look to continue his success at Nationals Park when the Atlanta Braves visit the Washington Nationals for the second game of their four-game series Tuesday night. The Atlanta first baseman smacked a two-run homer to center and added a sacrifice fly in the Braves 9-4 win on Monday night, their sixth in a row. Washington’s James Wood also robbed Olson of a homer at the fence in right field. “We hit a lot of balls hard tonight,” Braves manager Walt Weiss said Monday. “That wind was blowing in. The fact that that ball Olson hit got out to center was a miracle the way the wind was blowing in. He might have had three homers tonight without any wind.” Olson’s numbers might be ready for a boost anyway given his history at Nationals Park. Over the course of the 32-year-old’s career, Olson has played 30 games at the stadium. He has 13 homers, 35 RBIs and a batting average of .367. The 13 home runs are more than he has hit in every stadium except the two parks he has called home — he previously played for the Athletics — and Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, where he has parked 15 balls over the outfield wall. Atlanta’s Ronald Acuna, Jr. left the game in the sixth inning after being hit by a Jake Irvin pitch for the second time in the game, this one on the left hand. Acuna is day-to-day and Weiss said X-rays were negative. “We feel pretty good about it,” Weiss said. “That’s where we’re at. We don’t have any plans for an MRI.” Irvin said neither pitch was intentional. “We’re trying to go in,” he said. “It’s unfortunate. Atlanta right-hander Reynaldo Lopez (1-0, 2.18) will oppose left-hander Foster Griffin (2-0, 3.05) on Tuesday. Griffin turned in three strong starts to open the season but struggled the last time out against Pittsburgh on Thursday. He held the Pirates scoreless for the first four innings but ultimately gave up four runs on eight hits over 5 1/3 innings, striking out seven and walking one. The Nationals pulled off an 8-7 win in 10 innings, but Griffin didn’t figure into the decision. He has never faced the Braves. Lopez is 0-1 with a 4.76 ERA in four career starts against the Nationals. He gave up four runs (three earned) on five hits in five innings of a no-decision against the Miami Marlins in his April 14 start, won 6-5 by the Braves. It was the first time in four starts that he had given up more than one earned run. The Nationals took the lead twice on Monday but could not hold it. Daylen Lile homered, but Washington was held to three hits and fell to 2-8 at home on a night that they committed two errors in addition to hitting Acuna. “We know we have to play really good baseball against this team; they’re really good,” Nationals manager Blake Butera said after the game on Monday. “We made too many mistakes tonight to beat this club. We’ll address it, we’ll fix it and be ready to go tomorrow.” Lile has hits in 18 of 22 games played this year. Irvin was perfect through three innings but was later lifted after five innings and 68 pitches. He gave up four runs (three earned). Atlanta’s Drake Baldwin had two hits, drove in two runs and scored twice. He has 10 multi-hit games this season. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Nationals #hands #full #Matt #Olson #Braves #Theyre #goodApr 15, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) reacts as he runs after hitting a home run against the Miami Marlins during the seventh inning at Truist Park. All players are wearing number 42 today in honor of Jackie Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Matt Olson will look to continue his success at Nationals Park when the Atlanta Braves visit the Washington Nationals for the second game of their four-game series Tuesday night.

The Atlanta first baseman smacked a two-run homer to center and added a sacrifice fly in the Braves 9-4 win on Monday night, their sixth in a row. Washington’s James Wood also robbed Olson of a homer at the fence in right field.

“We hit a lot of balls hard tonight,” Braves manager Walt Weiss said Monday. “That wind was blowing in. The fact that that ball Olson hit got out to center was a miracle the way the wind was blowing in. He might have had three homers tonight without any wind.”

Olson’s numbers might be ready for a boost anyway given his history at Nationals Park. Over the course of the 32-year-old’s career, Olson has played 30 games at the stadium. He has 13 homers, 35 RBIs and a batting average of .367.

The 13 home runs are more than he has hit in every stadium except the two parks he has called home — he previously played for the Athletics — and Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, where he has parked 15 balls over the outfield wall.

Atlanta’s Ronald Acuna, Jr. left the game in the sixth inning after being hit by a Jake Irvin pitch for the second time in the game, this one on the left hand. Acuna is day-to-day and Weiss said X-rays were negative.

“We feel pretty good about it,” Weiss said. “That’s where we’re at. We don’t have any plans for an MRI.”

Irvin said neither pitch was intentional.

“We’re trying to go in,” he said. “It’s unfortunate.


Atlanta right-hander Reynaldo Lopez (1-0, 2.18) will oppose left-hander Foster Griffin (2-0, 3.05) on Tuesday.

Griffin turned in three strong starts to open the season but struggled the last time out against Pittsburgh on Thursday. He held the Pirates scoreless for the first four innings but ultimately gave up four runs on eight hits over 5 1/3 innings, striking out seven and walking one. The Nationals pulled off an 8-7 win in 10 innings, but Griffin didn’t figure into the decision.

He has never faced the Braves.

Lopez is 0-1 with a 4.76 ERA in four career starts against the Nationals.

He gave up four runs (three earned) on five hits in five innings of a no-decision against the Miami Marlins in his April 14 start, won 6-5 by the Braves. It was the first time in four starts that he had given up more than one earned run.

The Nationals took the lead twice on Monday but could not hold it. Daylen Lile homered, but Washington was held to three hits and fell to 2-8 at home on a night that they committed two errors in addition to hitting Acuna.

“We know we have to play really good baseball against this team; they’re really good,” Nationals manager Blake Butera said after the game on Monday. “We made too many mistakes tonight to beat this club. We’ll address it, we’ll fix it and be ready to go tomorrow.”

Lile has hits in 18 of 22 games played this year.

Irvin was perfect through three innings but was later lifted after five innings and 68 pitches. He gave up four runs (three earned).

Atlanta’s Drake Baldwin had two hits, drove in two runs and scored twice. He has 10 multi-hit games this season.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Nationals #hands #full #Matt #Olson #Braves #Theyre #good

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Apr 15, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) reacts as he runs after hitting a home run against the Miami Marlins during the seventh inning at Truist Park. All players are wearing number 42 today in honor of Jackie Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Matt Olson will look to continue his success at Nationals Park when the Atlanta Braves visit the Washington Nationals for the second game of their four-game series Tuesday night.

The Atlanta first baseman smacked a two-run homer to center and added a sacrifice fly in the Braves 9-4 win on Monday night, their sixth in a row. Washington’s James Wood also robbed Olson of a homer at the fence in right field.

“We hit a lot of balls hard tonight,” Braves manager Walt Weiss said Monday. “That wind was blowing in. The fact that that ball Olson hit got out to center was a miracle the way the wind was blowing in. He might have had three homers tonight without any wind.”

Olson’s numbers might be ready for a boost anyway given his history at Nationals Park. Over the course of the 32-year-old’s career, Olson has played 30 games at the stadium. He has 13 homers, 35 RBIs and a batting average of .367.

The 13 home runs are more than he has hit in every stadium except the two parks he has called home — he previously played for the Athletics — and Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, where he has parked 15 balls over the outfield wall.

Atlanta’s Ronald Acuna, Jr. left the game in the sixth inning after being hit by a Jake Irvin pitch for the second time in the game, this one on the left hand. Acuna is day-to-day and Weiss said X-rays were negative.

“We feel pretty good about it,” Weiss said. “That’s where we’re at. We don’t have any plans for an MRI.”

Irvin said neither pitch was intentional.

“We’re trying to go in,” he said. “It’s unfortunate.

Atlanta right-hander Reynaldo Lopez (1-0, 2.18) will oppose left-hander Foster Griffin (2-0, 3.05) on Tuesday.

Griffin turned in three strong starts to open the season but struggled the last time out against Pittsburgh on Thursday. He held the Pirates scoreless for the first four innings but ultimately gave up four runs on eight hits over 5 1/3 innings, striking out seven and walking one. The Nationals pulled off an 8-7 win in 10 innings, but Griffin didn’t figure into the decision.

He has never faced the Braves.

Lopez is 0-1 with a 4.76 ERA in four career starts against the Nationals.

He gave up four runs (three earned) on five hits in five innings of a no-decision against the Miami Marlins in his April 14 start, won 6-5 by the Braves. It was the first time in four starts that he had given up more than one earned run.

The Nationals took the lead twice on Monday but could not hold it. Daylen Lile homered, but Washington was held to three hits and fell to 2-8 at home on a night that they committed two errors in addition to hitting Acuna.

“We know we have to play really good baseball against this team; they’re really good,” Nationals manager Blake Butera said after the game on Monday. “We made too many mistakes tonight to beat this club. We’ll address it, we’ll fix it and be ready to go tomorrow.”

Lile has hits in 18 of 22 games played this year.

Irvin was perfect through three innings but was later lifted after five innings and 68 pitches. He gave up four runs (three earned).

Atlanta’s Drake Baldwin had two hits, drove in two runs and scored twice. He has 10 multi-hit games this season.

–Field Level Media

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Deadspin | Raiders pick No. 1, then Ohio State draft takeover begins <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-900/25695439.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/25695439.jpg" alt="Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8), linebacker Sonny Styles (6), safety Caleb Downs (2) and cornerback Davison Igbinosun (1) work out during spring football practice at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center on March 17, 2025.<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Ohio State is not the reigning national champion in college football, and the Buckeyes are not expected to produce a fourth No. 1 overall selection when the 2026 NFL Draft kicks off with the Las Vegas Raiders on the clock Thursday night. </p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>But you can bet your most sacred scarlet that the Buckeyes are money in the bank to pad their all-time total — 97 and counting — first-round selections soon after Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza is selected by the Raiders.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Anywhere between nine and 13 Ohio State players are projected to be drafted into the NFL this week, and five carry first-round grades one year removed from the 2025 national championship roster that produced four first-rounders: wide receiver Emeka Egbuka (No. 21, Buccaneers), offensive lineman Donovan Jackson (24, Vikings), defensive tackle Tyleik Williams (28, Lions) and offensive tackle Josh Simmons (32, Chiefs). </p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>The 2021 Alabama team and the 2004 Miami squad share the record with six first-round selections in a single draft.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>The wait for the Ohio State takeover of the 2026 draft might not be long. In fact, that first selection could come right after Mendoza hears his name called.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Buckeyes linebackers Sonny Styles and Arvell Reese are candidates to be selected No. 2 overall by the Jets. Styles put on an epic athletic display at the NFL Scouting Combine in February and Reese, who played a variety of positions in Matt Patricia’s defense, was right there with him. At 6-foot-4 and 243 pounds, Reese is being compared to Penn State-era Micah Parsons, the No. 12 pick in the 2021 draft and a three-time NFL All-Pro. </p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>Reese is dripping with upside. He had 6.5 sacks at Ohio State in 2025 but was only a part-time pass rusher. </p> </section><section id="section-8"> <p>Only 20, Reese could add significant weight and convert to defensive end or focus on an edge/outside linebacker role. Because of his speed and power, there are also teams that discussed using him inside. The Cleveland native met with the Browns but he might not stick around long enough to stay in Ohio; the Browns have picks No. 6 and 24. He also had multiple meetings with the Arizona Cardinals, who pick third overall. </p> </section><br/><section id="section-9"> <p>“I played everywhere from inside linebacker to (strong-side) to edge. I was comfortable everywhere,” Reese said, noting NFL teams are complimentary of his versatility. “It changes (with) each team, so it depends on the system and how the defensive coordinator thinks he’ll use me.”</p> </section> <section id="section-10"> <p>Styles is a second-generation NFL prospect. His dad, Lorenzo Styles, was an NFL linebacker for the St. Louis Rams and Atlanta Falcons for six seasons. Lorenzo Styles Jr. is also part of the 2026 draft class. A Notre Dame transfer, Lorenzo Styles Jr. played safety — and started 11 games — for the Buckeyes last season.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>At 6-5, 244, Sonny Styles stole the show at the combine. He ran a 4.46 40-yard dash, had a 43 1/2-inch vertical, broad jumped 11 feet, 2 inches and clocked a 4.26-second 20-yard shuttle. It points to his high school background as a five-star safety recruit. </p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>The top tackler on Ohio State’s dynamic defense, Sonny Styles had only one missed tackle all season — and it came in the College Football Playoff — by the count of Buckeyes’ staff.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>“I think the way I can improve the run defense is just being in the middle,” said Styles, a self-described film junkie. “I feel like I had a great feel of what was coming.”</p> </section><section id="section-14"> <p>Safety Caleb Downs is listed as a top-10 prospect by many evaluators, and he will be in the draft green room Thursday with his linebacker teammates, wide receiver Carnell Tate and defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. </p> </section><section id="section-15"> <p>All six could be selected in the opening round. Downs and Toledo’s Emmanuel McNeil-Warren are vying to be the top player picked at the position and Tate is another likely first-round receiver produced by the Buckeyes. He averaged 17.2 yards per reception last season and caught 14 TD passes in three seasons at Ohio State. </p> </section><section id="section-16"> <p>McDonald turned 21 last month and was the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2025. He had 65 tackles and nine tackles for loss last season as the thick and powerful roadblock to interior linemen trying to get their hands on Reese and Styles. </p> </section><section id="section-17"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Raiders #pick #Ohio #State #draft #takeover #begins

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Deadspin | White Sox, red-hot Munetaka Murakami present challenge for Diamondbacks Apr 19, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) jogs around the bases after hitting a two run home run during the fifth inning against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Scott Marshall-Imagn Images As Arizona right-hander Merrill Kelly settles into the place he feels most at home, Chicago White Sox newcomer Munetaka Murakami is finding an immediate fit in his South Side neighborhood. The two will meet when Kelly (1-0, 3.38 ERA) faces right-hander Sean Burke (0-2, 4.43) in the first game of a three-game series Tuesday in Phoenix. Murakami has made quite a splash since signing a two-year, million free-agent contract in the offseason following eight years with the Yakult Swallows of the Japan Central League. The rookie first baseman hit three homers a three-game set against the Athletics, including one of Chicago’s four dingers in a 7-4 victory Sunday to give the team just its second series win of the season. Murakami has eight homers, more than any Japanese-born player through his first 22 games, making his deal look like a bargain thus far. “Guy’s got stupid juice,” White Sox right-hander Davis Martin told reporters. Martin was speaking after Murakami’s clinching grand slam in a 9-2 win Friday, a ball that cleared the batter’s eye at Sutter Health Park and was estimated at 431 feet. “I got more than 431,” White Sox manager Will Venable said. “I don’t know who is doing that calculation, but that ball was touched right there.” Murakami’s homer Sunday was estimated at 425 feet. “I just love having all the points come up from all the lineup and everybody contributing to the team,” Murakami said. Kelly will make his first home start of the season after snubbing a more lucrative offer from San Diego in his first taste of free agency over the winter. He received a prolonged ovation when he was introduced before the D-Bbacks’ home opener March 30, although he was on the injured list and could not play. “I’ve been here my whole big-league career, and that means something to me,” said Kelly, who signed a two-year, million contract in the offseason. The Padres offered three years for million. “I’m grateful to the organization for having that much faith in me. Not only the guys in the clubhouse that I enjoy being around, but also the team on the field. I felt like it was a very competitive team.” The Diamondbacks have won 10 of 14 and have not lost a series since being swept at the Los Angeles Dodgers to open the season. The White Sox had lost 8 of 10 before taking two of three against the A’s. Kelly missed the first three weeks of the season with an intercostal nerve irritation before returning in a 4-3 victory at Baltimore last Tuesday. He gave up two runs and five hits, with three strikeouts and four walks. His takeaway? “That we won. That’s the first and foremost goal,” said Kelly, who pitched five scoreless innings in his one rehab start for Triple-A Reno. “It’s always nice to come back and get that first one out of the way. “The health stuff, I think, is in the rear-view mirror. But there were definitely some butterflies. I think my brain knows I’m going into a big-league game with something that matters. The speed is definitely different for sure.” Kelly is 2-1 in three career starts against the White Sox, the last a 9-3 victory in West Sacramento last season after he had been sent to Texas prior to the trade deadline. Burke beat the D-Backs 7-3 last season, his only appearance against them. He did not allow an earned run in five innings. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #White #Sox #redhot #Munetaka #Murakami #present #challenge #DiamondbacksApr 19, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) jogs around the bases after hitting a two run home run during the fifth inning against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Scott Marshall-Imagn Images

As Arizona right-hander Merrill Kelly settles into the place he feels most at home, Chicago White Sox newcomer Munetaka Murakami is finding an immediate fit in his South Side neighborhood.

The two will meet when Kelly (1-0, 3.38 ERA) faces right-hander Sean Burke (0-2, 4.43) in the first game of a three-game series Tuesday in Phoenix.

Murakami has made quite a splash since signing a two-year, $34 million free-agent contract in the offseason following eight years with the Yakult Swallows of the Japan Central League.

The rookie first baseman hit three homers a three-game set against the Athletics, including one of Chicago’s four dingers in a 7-4 victory Sunday to give the team just its second series win of the season.

Murakami has eight homers, more than any Japanese-born player through his first 22 games, making his deal look like a bargain thus far.

“Guy’s got stupid juice,” White Sox right-hander Davis Martin told reporters.

Martin was speaking after Murakami’s clinching grand slam in a 9-2 win Friday, a ball that cleared the batter’s eye at Sutter Health Park and was estimated at 431 feet.

“I got more than 431,” White Sox manager Will Venable said. “I don’t know who is doing that calculation, but that ball was touched right there.”

Murakami’s homer Sunday was estimated at 425 feet.

“I just love having all the points come up from all the lineup and everybody contributing to the team,” Murakami said.


Kelly will make his first home start of the season after snubbing a more lucrative offer from San Diego in his first taste of free agency over the winter. He received a prolonged ovation when he was introduced before the D-Bbacks’ home opener March 30, although he was on the injured list and could not play.

“I’ve been here my whole big-league career, and that means something to me,” said Kelly, who signed a two-year, $40 million contract in the offseason. The Padres offered three years for $60 million.

“I’m grateful to the organization for having that much faith in me. Not only the guys in the clubhouse that I enjoy being around, but also the team on the field. I felt like it was a very competitive team.”

The Diamondbacks have won 10 of 14 and have not lost a series since being swept at the Los Angeles Dodgers to open the season.

The White Sox had lost 8 of 10 before taking two of three against the A’s.

Kelly missed the first three weeks of the season with an intercostal nerve irritation before returning in a 4-3 victory at Baltimore last Tuesday. He gave up two runs and five hits, with three strikeouts and four walks.

His takeaway?

“That we won. That’s the first and foremost goal,” said Kelly, who pitched five scoreless innings in his one rehab start for Triple-A Reno. “It’s always nice to come back and get that first one out of the way.

“The health stuff, I think, is in the rear-view mirror. But there were definitely some butterflies. I think my brain knows I’m going into a big-league game with something that matters. The speed is definitely different for sure.”

Kelly is 2-1 in three career starts against the White Sox, the last a 9-3 victory in West Sacramento last season after he had been sent to Texas prior to the trade deadline.

Burke beat the D-Backs 7-3 last season, his only appearance against them. He did not allow an earned run in five innings.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #White #Sox #redhot #Munetaka #Murakami #present #challenge #Diamondbacks">Deadspin | White Sox, red-hot Munetaka Murakami present challenge for Diamondbacks Apr 19, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) jogs around the bases after hitting a two run home run during the fifth inning against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Scott Marshall-Imagn Images As Arizona right-hander Merrill Kelly settles into the place he feels most at home, Chicago White Sox newcomer Munetaka Murakami is finding an immediate fit in his South Side neighborhood. The two will meet when Kelly (1-0, 3.38 ERA) faces right-hander Sean Burke (0-2, 4.43) in the first game of a three-game series Tuesday in Phoenix. Murakami has made quite a splash since signing a two-year, million free-agent contract in the offseason following eight years with the Yakult Swallows of the Japan Central League. The rookie first baseman hit three homers a three-game set against the Athletics, including one of Chicago’s four dingers in a 7-4 victory Sunday to give the team just its second series win of the season. Murakami has eight homers, more than any Japanese-born player through his first 22 games, making his deal look like a bargain thus far. “Guy’s got stupid juice,” White Sox right-hander Davis Martin told reporters. Martin was speaking after Murakami’s clinching grand slam in a 9-2 win Friday, a ball that cleared the batter’s eye at Sutter Health Park and was estimated at 431 feet. “I got more than 431,” White Sox manager Will Venable said. “I don’t know who is doing that calculation, but that ball was touched right there.” Murakami’s homer Sunday was estimated at 425 feet. “I just love having all the points come up from all the lineup and everybody contributing to the team,” Murakami said. Kelly will make his first home start of the season after snubbing a more lucrative offer from San Diego in his first taste of free agency over the winter. He received a prolonged ovation when he was introduced before the D-Bbacks’ home opener March 30, although he was on the injured list and could not play. “I’ve been here my whole big-league career, and that means something to me,” said Kelly, who signed a two-year, million contract in the offseason. The Padres offered three years for million. “I’m grateful to the organization for having that much faith in me. Not only the guys in the clubhouse that I enjoy being around, but also the team on the field. I felt like it was a very competitive team.” The Diamondbacks have won 10 of 14 and have not lost a series since being swept at the Los Angeles Dodgers to open the season. The White Sox had lost 8 of 10 before taking two of three against the A’s. Kelly missed the first three weeks of the season with an intercostal nerve irritation before returning in a 4-3 victory at Baltimore last Tuesday. He gave up two runs and five hits, with three strikeouts and four walks. His takeaway? “That we won. That’s the first and foremost goal,” said Kelly, who pitched five scoreless innings in his one rehab start for Triple-A Reno. “It’s always nice to come back and get that first one out of the way. “The health stuff, I think, is in the rear-view mirror. But there were definitely some butterflies. I think my brain knows I’m going into a big-league game with something that matters. The speed is definitely different for sure.” Kelly is 2-1 in three career starts against the White Sox, the last a 9-3 victory in West Sacramento last season after he had been sent to Texas prior to the trade deadline. Burke beat the D-Backs 7-3 last season, his only appearance against them. He did not allow an earned run in five innings. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #White #Sox #redhot #Munetaka #Murakami #present #challenge #Diamondbacks

C.J. Allen, LB, Georgia

A trade with the Houston Texans sent the Bills back to 28 from their original selection point of 26, while also gaining pick 141 (Round 5) in the process.

The Bills need to address the elephant in the room, which is a lack of talent along the defensive front seven. Some of that is due to attrition, namely linebacker Matt Milano who’s return is anything but guaranteed.

With a huge run on the wide receiver position, the smart play was for Buffalo to add a heck of a ball player who should make an immediate impact — that being linebacker C.J. Allen.

A physical, three-down ‘backer with coveted intangible traits, Allen has a chance to become a real force out of the gate wearing the green dot with the Bills. Buffalo is undergoing a huge overhaul on defense under first-time defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard. While a hybrid system is expected for 2026, the goal remains a shift to a 3-4 base system.

Allen will provide the Bills with set-it-and-forget-it reliability at MIKE. He’s one of the draft’s most technically proficient linebackers, and someone dripping with football instincts.

#Buffalo #Rumblings #selects #C.J #Allen #Buffalo #Bills #20th #annual #Nation #community #mock #draft">Buffalo Rumblings selects C.J. Allen for Buffalo Bills in 20th annual SB Nation community mock draft C.J. Allen, LB, GeorgiaA trade with the Houston Texans sent the Bills back to 28 from their original selection point of 26, while also gaining pick 141 (Round 5) in the process. The Bills need to address the elephant in the room, which is a lack of talent along the defensive front seven. Some of that is due to attrition, namely linebacker Matt Milano who’s return is anything but guaranteed. With a huge run on the wide receiver position, the smart play was for Buffalo to add a heck of a ball player who should make an immediate impact — that being linebacker C.J. Allen. A physical, three-down ‘backer with coveted intangible traits, Allen has a chance to become a real force out of the gate wearing the green dot with the Bills. Buffalo is undergoing a huge overhaul on defense under first-time defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard. While a hybrid system is expected for 2026, the goal remains a shift to a 3-4 base system. Allen will provide the Bills with set-it-and-forget-it reliability at MIKE. He’s one of the draft’s most technically proficient linebackers, and someone dripping with football instincts. #Buffalo #Rumblings #selects #C.J #Allen #Buffalo #Bills #20th #annual #Nation #community #mock #draft

Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique said on Tuesday he was unsure if midfield metronome Vitinha would be fit to play against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semifinals.

The Portuguese central midfielder will miss PSG’s Ligue 1 2025-26 clash against Nantes on Wednesday due to a heel inflammation.

“We’ll take a calm and measured approach to see how the injured players can make a comeback. But I don’t know,” he told reporters when asked if Vitinha would be back in time for next Tuesday’s semifinal first leg at the Parc des Princes.

“We need to manage Vitinha’s minor injury; some players are a bit tired or have a few niggles,” the Spaniard also told PSGTV.

Should the 26-year-old be unavailable, his place at the heart of the PSG midfield could be filled by the returning Fabian Ruiz.

Alongside Vitinha and Joao Neves, Ruiz formed the midfield trio that anchored much of PSG’s success last season as it won a maiden Champions League title and lifted the Ligue 1 trophy.

The Spaniard returned for the final 18 minutes of PSG’s 2-1 league loss at home to Lyon last weekend as he continues his comeback from a knee injury.

ALSO READ | Rodri set to miss Burnley trip as Manchester City chases Arsenal in Premier League

Luis Enrique cooled expectations on the 30-year-old, however, as he said Ruiz would need “time to regain fitness” after spending three months on the sidelines.

“Fabian Ruiz needs more matches and minutes to recover,” Luis Enrique insisted, before adding he was nonetheless “happy” with his return against Lyon.

The former Barcelona and Spain coach warned that even as PSG close in on a repeat of its double-winning season this term, he still demands “more” from all his charges.

Exciting Senegalese 18-year-old Ibrahim Mbaye was not included in the squad for Sunday’s defeat to Lyon, with Luis Enrique explaining, “Every minute you get to play for PSG must be special. I have no regrets about Mbaye, but you have to be ready. He was ready, but I expect much more from all the players.”

Victory in the French capital against Nantes on Wednesday would send PSG three points clear of surprise Ligue 1 title challenger Lens with five matches remaining in the campaign.

Published on Apr 21, 2026

#PSG #Luis #Enrique #sweat #Vitinhas #availability #ahead #Champions #League #semis">PSG, Luis Enrique sweat on Vitinha’s availability ahead of Champions League semis Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique said on Tuesday he was unsure if midfield metronome Vitinha would be fit to play against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semifinals.The Portuguese central midfielder will miss PSG’s Ligue 1 2025-26 clash against Nantes on Wednesday due to a heel inflammation.“We’ll take a calm and measured approach to see how the injured players can make a comeback. But I don’t know,” he told reporters when asked if Vitinha would be back in time for next Tuesday’s semifinal first leg at the Parc des Princes.“We need to manage Vitinha’s minor injury; some players are a bit tired or have a few niggles,” the Spaniard also told PSGTV.Should the 26-year-old be unavailable, his place at the heart of the PSG midfield could be filled by the returning Fabian Ruiz.Alongside Vitinha and Joao Neves, Ruiz formed the midfield trio that anchored much of PSG’s success last season as it won a maiden Champions League title and lifted the Ligue 1 trophy.The Spaniard returned for the final 18 minutes of PSG’s 2-1 league loss at home to Lyon last weekend as he continues his comeback from a knee injury.ALSO READ | Rodri set to miss Burnley trip as Manchester City chases Arsenal in Premier LeagueLuis Enrique cooled expectations on the 30-year-old, however, as he said Ruiz would need “time to regain fitness” after spending three months on the sidelines.“Fabian Ruiz needs more matches and minutes to recover,” Luis Enrique insisted, before adding he was nonetheless “happy” with his return against Lyon.The former Barcelona and Spain coach warned that even as PSG close in on a repeat of its double-winning season this term, he still demands “more” from all his charges.Exciting Senegalese 18-year-old Ibrahim Mbaye was not included in the squad for Sunday’s defeat to Lyon, with Luis Enrique explaining, “Every minute you get to play for PSG must be special. I have no regrets about Mbaye, but you have to be ready. He was ready, but I expect much more from all the players.”Victory in the French capital against Nantes on Wednesday would send PSG three points clear of surprise Ligue 1 title challenger Lens with five matches remaining in the campaign.Published on Apr 21, 2026 #PSG #Luis #Enrique #sweat #Vitinhas #availability #ahead #Champions #League #semis

Rodri set to miss Burnley trip as Manchester City chases Arsenal in Premier League

Luis Enrique cooled expectations on the 30-year-old, however, as he said Ruiz would need “time to regain fitness” after spending three months on the sidelines.

“Fabian Ruiz needs more matches and minutes to recover,” Luis Enrique insisted, before adding he was nonetheless “happy” with his return against Lyon.

The former Barcelona and Spain coach warned that even as PSG close in on a repeat of its double-winning season this term, he still demands “more” from all his charges.

Exciting Senegalese 18-year-old Ibrahim Mbaye was not included in the squad for Sunday’s defeat to Lyon, with Luis Enrique explaining, “Every minute you get to play for PSG must be special. I have no regrets about Mbaye, but you have to be ready. He was ready, but I expect much more from all the players.”

Victory in the French capital against Nantes on Wednesday would send PSG three points clear of surprise Ligue 1 title challenger Lens with five matches remaining in the campaign.

Published on Apr 21, 2026

#PSG #Luis #Enrique #sweat #Vitinhas #availability #ahead #Champions #League #semis">PSG, Luis Enrique sweat on Vitinha’s availability ahead of Champions League semis

Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique said on Tuesday he was unsure if midfield metronome Vitinha would be fit to play against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semifinals.

The Portuguese central midfielder will miss PSG’s Ligue 1 2025-26 clash against Nantes on Wednesday due to a heel inflammation.

“We’ll take a calm and measured approach to see how the injured players can make a comeback. But I don’t know,” he told reporters when asked if Vitinha would be back in time for next Tuesday’s semifinal first leg at the Parc des Princes.

“We need to manage Vitinha’s minor injury; some players are a bit tired or have a few niggles,” the Spaniard also told PSGTV.

Should the 26-year-old be unavailable, his place at the heart of the PSG midfield could be filled by the returning Fabian Ruiz.

Alongside Vitinha and Joao Neves, Ruiz formed the midfield trio that anchored much of PSG’s success last season as it won a maiden Champions League title and lifted the Ligue 1 trophy.

The Spaniard returned for the final 18 minutes of PSG’s 2-1 league loss at home to Lyon last weekend as he continues his comeback from a knee injury.

ALSO READ | Rodri set to miss Burnley trip as Manchester City chases Arsenal in Premier League

Luis Enrique cooled expectations on the 30-year-old, however, as he said Ruiz would need “time to regain fitness” after spending three months on the sidelines.

“Fabian Ruiz needs more matches and minutes to recover,” Luis Enrique insisted, before adding he was nonetheless “happy” with his return against Lyon.

The former Barcelona and Spain coach warned that even as PSG close in on a repeat of its double-winning season this term, he still demands “more” from all his charges.

Exciting Senegalese 18-year-old Ibrahim Mbaye was not included in the squad for Sunday’s defeat to Lyon, with Luis Enrique explaining, “Every minute you get to play for PSG must be special. I have no regrets about Mbaye, but you have to be ready. He was ready, but I expect much more from all the players.”

Victory in the French capital against Nantes on Wednesday would send PSG three points clear of surprise Ligue 1 title challenger Lens with five matches remaining in the campaign.

Published on Apr 21, 2026

#PSG #Luis #Enrique #sweat #Vitinhas #availability #ahead #Champions #League #semis

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