Deadspin | Padres’ offense waking up just in time as torrid Pirates await Apr 5, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Manny MacHado (13) celebrates his three run home run against the Boston Red Sox with /right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) during the fifth inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images The San Diego Padres are starting to improve following a rough start to the season as they head to Pittsburgh to face the red-hot Pirates on Monday night in the opener of a three-game set. The Padres won a series for the first time this season when they beat the Red Sox in Boston in back-to-back games, including 8-6 on Sunday. San Diego’s anemic offense, which entered the day with a major-league-worst .190 batting average and .553 OPS, woke up thanks to Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts and Jackson Merrill, who combined for eight of the Padres’ 12 hits in the Sunday victory. The Padres will need the production to continue on Monday when they send German Marquez (0-1, 12.00 ERA) to the mound to oppose fellow right-hander Bubba Chandler (0-0, 0.00) as San Diego attempts to stop Pittsburgh’s five-game winning streak. Machado hit his first home run of the season Sunday as the Padres scored the most runs they’ve had in a game this season. It was only the second time in nine games that San Diego scored more than three runs in a contest. Both of those games have come during this stretch of three wins in four games. “Just to see Jackson go 3-for-5, Manny go 2-for-4, and Bogaerts go 3-for-3, if we get those guys moving the baseball the way they did today, we’re going to win a lot of baseball games,” Padres manager Craig Stammen said on Sunday. Marquez could use the offensive backup following a rough first start last Tuesday against San Francisco. He was pulled after three innings after allowing four runs on eight hits, including a pair of home runs, and one walk. He struck out one on 65 pitches in a 9-3 loss. Marquez has had success in his career against the Pirates, however, going 6-1 with a 1.89 ERA in seven starts. Chandler will make his sixth career start and first ever against San Diego. His first start of the season had mostly positive results with one glaring issue — walks. Chandler tossed 4 1/3 hitless innings, allowed only one unearned run and struck out six in a no-decision in an 8-3 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday. But he walked six and threw 81 pitches. Chandler touched 100 mph on his fastball but wasn’t happy with his command. “I just wasn’t executing,” he said after the start. “The confidence was probably not where it needed to be. We had a great lead. My job is to go out there and three up, three down, quick innings, let our boys get back in and hit. I think as the game went on, it was more about trying to go do something, rather than just going out there and doing it.” Thanks largely to offseason acquisitions Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn, and a strong offensive start by Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh has shown the power at the plate it lacked last season with 12 home runs in nine games. The Pirates also are seeing offensive production from welcome sources such as Nick Yorke, who started at third base a day after infielder Jared Triolo was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right knee injury. Yorke delivered the walk-off hit in Saturday’s victory over the Orioles, and had another hit on Sunday. As a corresponding move with Triolo’s IL placement, Pittsburgh recalled outfielder Billy Cook from Triple-A Indianapolis. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Padres #offense #waking #time #torrid #Pirates #await

Deadspin | Padres’ offense waking up just in time as torrid Pirates await
Apr 5, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Manny MacHado (13) celebrates his three run home run against the Boston Red Sox with /right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) during the fifth inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

The San Diego Padres are starting to improve following a rough start to the season as they head to Pittsburgh to face the red-hot Pirates on Monday night in the opener of a three-game set.

The Padres won a series for the first time this season when they beat the Red Sox in Boston in back-to-back games, including 8-6 on Sunday.

San Diego’s anemic offense, which entered the day with a major-league-worst .190 batting average and .553 OPS, woke up thanks to Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts and Jackson Merrill, who combined for eight of the Padres’ 12 hits in the Sunday victory.

The Padres will need the production to continue on Monday when they send German Marquez (0-1, 12.00 ERA) to the mound to oppose fellow right-hander Bubba Chandler (0-0, 0.00) as San Diego attempts to stop Pittsburgh’s five-game winning streak.

Machado hit his first home run of the season Sunday as the Padres scored the most runs they’ve had in a game this season. It was only the second time in nine games that San Diego scored more than three runs in a contest.

Both of those games have come during this stretch of three wins in four games.

“Just to see Jackson go 3-for-5, Manny go 2-for-4, and Bogaerts go 3-for-3, if we get those guys moving the baseball the way they did today, we’re going to win a lot of baseball games,” Padres manager Craig Stammen said on Sunday.

Marquez could use the offensive backup following a rough first start last Tuesday against San Francisco. He was pulled after three innings after allowing four runs on eight hits, including a pair of home runs, and one walk. He struck out one on 65 pitches in a 9-3 loss.

Marquez has had success in his career against the Pirates, however, going 6-1 with a 1.89 ERA in seven starts.

Chandler will make his sixth career start and first ever against San Diego.

His first start of the season had mostly positive results with one glaring issue — walks. Chandler tossed 4 1/3 hitless innings, allowed only one unearned run and struck out six in a no-decision in an 8-3 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday. But he walked six and threw 81 pitches.

Chandler touched 100 mph on his fastball but wasn’t happy with his command.

“I just wasn’t executing,” he said after the start. “The confidence was probably not where it needed to be. We had a great lead. My job is to go out there and three up, three down, quick innings, let our boys get back in and hit. I think as the game went on, it was more about trying to go do something, rather than just going out there and doing it.”

Thanks largely to offseason acquisitions Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn, and a strong offensive start by Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh has shown the power at the plate it lacked last season with 12 home runs in nine games.

The Pirates also are seeing offensive production from welcome sources such as Nick Yorke, who started at third base a day after infielder Jared Triolo was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right knee injury.

Yorke delivered the walk-off hit in Saturday’s victory over the Orioles, and had another hit on Sunday. As a corresponding move with Triolo’s IL placement, Pittsburgh recalled outfielder Billy Cook from Triple-A Indianapolis.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Padres #offense #waking #time #torrid #Pirates #await

Sports news April 6, 2026

Apr 5, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Manny MacHado (13) celebrates his three run home run against the Boston Red Sox with /right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) during the fifth inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

The San Diego Padres are starting to improve following a rough start to the season as they head to Pittsburgh to face the red-hot Pirates on Monday night in the opener of a three-game set.

The Padres won a series for the first time this season when they beat the Red Sox in Boston in back-to-back games, including 8-6 on Sunday.

San Diego’s anemic offense, which entered the day with a major-league-worst .190 batting average and .553 OPS, woke up thanks to Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts and Jackson Merrill, who combined for eight of the Padres’ 12 hits in the Sunday victory.

The Padres will need the production to continue on Monday when they send German Marquez (0-1, 12.00 ERA) to the mound to oppose fellow right-hander Bubba Chandler (0-0, 0.00) as San Diego attempts to stop Pittsburgh’s five-game winning streak.

Machado hit his first home run of the season Sunday as the Padres scored the most runs they’ve had in a game this season. It was only the second time in nine games that San Diego scored more than three runs in a contest.

Both of those games have come during this stretch of three wins in four games.

“Just to see Jackson go 3-for-5, Manny go 2-for-4, and Bogaerts go 3-for-3, if we get those guys moving the baseball the way they did today, we’re going to win a lot of baseball games,” Padres manager Craig Stammen said on Sunday.

Marquez could use the offensive backup following a rough first start last Tuesday against San Francisco. He was pulled after three innings after allowing four runs on eight hits, including a pair of home runs, and one walk. He struck out one on 65 pitches in a 9-3 loss.

Marquez has had success in his career against the Pirates, however, going 6-1 with a 1.89 ERA in seven starts.

Chandler will make his sixth career start and first ever against San Diego.

His first start of the season had mostly positive results with one glaring issue — walks. Chandler tossed 4 1/3 hitless innings, allowed only one unearned run and struck out six in a no-decision in an 8-3 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday. But he walked six and threw 81 pitches.

Chandler touched 100 mph on his fastball but wasn’t happy with his command.

“I just wasn’t executing,” he said after the start. “The confidence was probably not where it needed to be. We had a great lead. My job is to go out there and three up, three down, quick innings, let our boys get back in and hit. I think as the game went on, it was more about trying to go do something, rather than just going out there and doing it.”

Thanks largely to offseason acquisitions Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn, and a strong offensive start by Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh has shown the power at the plate it lacked last season with 12 home runs in nine games.

The Pirates also are seeing offensive production from welcome sources such as Nick Yorke, who started at third base a day after infielder Jared Triolo was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right knee injury.

Yorke delivered the walk-off hit in Saturday’s victory over the Orioles, and had another hit on Sunday. As a corresponding move with Triolo’s IL placement, Pittsburgh recalled outfielder Billy Cook from Triple-A Indianapolis.

–Field Level Media

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#Deadspin #Padres #offense #waking #time #torrid #Pirates #await

Rachin Ravindra — T20 cricket is about pushing your team forward and forgetting about your wicket <div id="content-body-70830869" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Rachin Ravindra may not have featured for Kolkata Knight Riders so far in this edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), but the New Zealand all-rounder insists patience, perspective and constant evolution remain central to his approach as he navigates selection competition, the demands of three-format cricket and the rapidly shifting T20 landscape.</p><h4 class="sub_head">On waiting for his chance at KKR</h4><p>“I wouldn’t ever really call it frustrating. First of all, it’s great to be part of a new franchise and it’s such a great crew to be with. I’m enjoying my time here.</p><p>“For me, it’s understanding that the team is out there and I’m supporting them and I’m doing my best job to, one, help them prepare and, two, help us win games. And whether that’s part of the starting 12 or whether that’s on the bench or whatever it looks like. And that to me is important.</p><p><b>ALSO READ | <a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/cricket/ipl/csk-v-rcb-chennai-super-kings-loss-raises-ruturaj-gaikwad-captaincy-doubts-ipl-2026-latest/article70829140.ece" target="_blank">14 defeats in 22 matches: Does CSK have a captaincy conundrum?</a></b></p><p>“As soon as you start to feel frustrated and stuff like that, you naturally think a little bit more negative about things. So for me, it’s just about getting better.</p><p>“Obviously, you always want to play games, but I’ve played a lot of cricket of late and even if I’m not playing, it’s about contributing to the team. I realise there are a lot of talented cricketers in this team. And if you’re missing out to, say, Finn Allen and Cameron Green, or Sunil Narine, or the likes of them, you have to understand that those are class players and they obviously make up the structure of the team. So, it doesn’t bother me too much.”</p><h4 class="sub_head">On back-to-back heartbreak in ICC finals against India</h4><p>“It probably still hurts. I think it always is going to. And there are times I think back and hindsight is a great thing. So there’s a million things that go through your head and little decisions you feel could have made a difference. Maybe, it doesn’t. Obviously, it’s hurtful to have it two years in a row and we were a lot closer in the Champions Trophy final.</p><p>“Both games were extremely disappointing. But again, that’s cricket. There’s always going to be a winner and a loser. And India is a very, very good team, especially in those conditions of Dubai and in India, you know, it is a quality unit which has played so much cricket here.</p><div class=" article-picture center"><img src="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/yd47d6/article70831112.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/DSC_1669.jpg" data-original="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/yd47d6/article70831112.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/DSC_1669.jpg" alt="Learning from setbacks: Ravindra feels every loss is an opportunity to learn and improve as a player." title="Learning from setbacks: Ravindra feels every loss is an opportunity to learn and improve as a player." class=" lazy" width="100%" height="100%"/><div class="pic-caption"><figcaption class="figure-caption align-text-bottom"><p><b>Learning from setbacks:</b> Ravindra feels every loss is an opportunity to learn and improve as a player. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini </p><img class="caption-image" src="https://assetsss.thehindu.com/theme/images/SSRX/lightbox-info.svg" alt="lightbox-info"/></figcaption></div><p class="caption"><b>Learning from setbacks:</b> Ravindra feels every loss is an opportunity to learn and improve as a player. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini </p></div><p>“There are always learnings about yourself — about batting, bowling — and also about clarity and decision making under pressure. And there’s all those things. As a team, I’m sure we’ve had a bit of time off, and we’ll come together later as a T20 group, especially later in the year, to discuss that.</p><p>“The crazy thing about cricket is that it always moves on, right? I think that’s always going to be in the back of your head. But there’s always the next challenge. And that’s great. It means you can’t really dwell on what has happened. Obviously, like I said, take what you can and move on. That World Cup was a great learning curve for me and I have brought some brilliant learnings to Kolkata.”</p><h4 class="sub_head">On dealing with pressure, setbacks and perspective</h4><p>“It’s a question that we’re all still trying to work out. Mostly for me, I’ve got some great mentors around me, and I lean on them, especially in that New Zealand setup. And I played under some brilliant captains. I’ve got Kane Williamson there, Mitchell Santner, all these guys to bounce ideas off.</p><p>“I speak to Kane a lot and then read, do a little bit of self-discovery for myself. And then it’s about being patient. It might seem like a small career and only a period of time in our lives, but for me, it’s calmness and patience that matters. I genuinely believe that everything happens for a reason. If you don’t believe that, then it’s hard to be sane, you know.</p><p>“As a player, you also need to accept that failure is part of our game. And it depends on what you see failure like, right? Is failure just not scoring runs? It’s probably not that. We all want to score runs. I think Rahul Dravid said this a while ago that, ‘You’re going to fail more than you succeed, especially as a batter…’</p><p><b>ALSO READ | <a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/cricket/ipl/kkr-vs-pbks-ipl-mullanpur-lowest-defended-total-kolkata-knight-riders-punjab-kings-chahal-new/article70827151.ece#google_vignette" target="_blank">The heist of Mullanpur: KKR, PBKS clash with memories of last season’s humdinger still afresh</a></b></p><p>“So, you have got to accept that you’re going to come to terms with that. But again, not scoring runs isn’t the failure. The failure is not consistently trying to improve yourself. And if you get too caught up in that, that’s when it stacks up and you’re trying to prove to others who you are and trying to show this and that.</p><p>“But that’s not really me. I’m just here. Obviously, I love enjoying the game and I love trying to get better each and every time. That’s important. That’s something I can measure it all by. And all the other stuff and noise doesn’t really matter because, again, you’re not here just for personal accolades. It’s a team game, although you want to do as well as you can. But as soon as you start leaning too much towards that, you’re in trouble.</p><p>“And if I look back to the Champions Trophy game against Bangladesh last year, I was very lucky to walk away with just a little scar leading up to the game (during the tri-series in Pakistan).</p><p>“But I was very lucky. Otherwise, an inch down and my career would have probably been over as my eye would be gone. So, these things obviously happen and you never want them to happen, but they give you perspective.</p><p>“Perspective is probably the biggest thing in our game — realising we get to do what we love for a living. And that’s important. Then there are so many things that happen to get us to this stage. So that’s at least how I see it and it helps me deal with it all.”</p><div class=" article-picture center"><img src="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/vfprlc/article70831121.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/Ravindra_08.jpg" data-original="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/vfprlc/article70831121.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/Ravindra_08.jpg" alt="Switching between formats: Over the last two years, Ravindra has been a constant presence for the Kiwis across the three formats." title="Switching between formats: Over the last two years, Ravindra has been a constant presence for the Kiwis across the three formats." class=" lazy" width="100%" height="100%"/><div class="pic-caption"><figcaption class="figure-caption align-text-bottom"><p><b>Switching between formats:</b> Over the last two years, Ravindra has been a constant presence for the Kiwis across the three formats. | Photo Credit: K. Bhagya Prakash </p><img class="caption-image" src="https://assetsss.thehindu.com/theme/images/SSRX/lightbox-info.svg" alt="lightbox-info"/></figcaption></div><p class="caption"><b>Switching between formats:</b> Over the last two years, Ravindra has been a constant presence for the Kiwis across the three formats. | Photo Credit: K. Bhagya Prakash </p></div><h4 class="sub_head">On adapting to evolving T20 demands</h4><p>“I think that’s going to be the ever-evolving thing about our game, right? I think we see how T20 is evolving. And if you’re not able to evolve as a player, then you’re going to be left behind.</p><p>“There are plenty of guys who are in that mould who can consistently do it. You only look at Virat Kohli, who does the same thing, he sort of takes his time, but has also transformed his T20 game over the last two or three years.</p><p>“So, the beauty is if the ability and skill is there, then you can transfer it across formats. And that, to me, is a challenge. I love playing all three formats. It’s a brilliant challenge. You love Test cricket, it’s beautiful. But then this part’s the freedom, right?</p><p>“And you’ve almost got to give away the notion of your wicket. In the other formats, your pride lies in spending so much time in the crease. And I’m naturally a strokemaker, so that does help. But I think when you come to this format (T20), it’s about how you can push the team forward and forget about your wicket.</p><p>“And also little technical changes which allow you to do that. But that’s always going to be the challenge for the all-format cricketer.”</p><h4 class="sub_head">On managing workload across formats</h4><p>“It’s always going to be a challenge. So, if you look at it this way, me missing out on a couple of games here is actually not the worst thing for my game. We’ve got Chris Donaldson, strength & conditioning coach from New Zealand here as well. He’s an amazing guy.</p><p>“On most days, I am in the gym and running on game days and stuff, which helps build that over time, makes me prepared for what’s to come. And also the quality of training you can get here in India is outstanding, with Watto (Shane Watson), Abhishek Nayar around. So we’ve got a great crew, I am learning from them as well. It allows you to have those little training blocks when you think you might not have.</p><p>“That’s always going to be a challenge in terms of finding rest because since the ODI World Cup 2023, I really haven’t had a break. I’ve been very grateful for it because I’ve been able to play three formats and also franchise cricket around the world. But I think that there is a time where you probably do need to have a mental break and relax.</p><p>“I’ll get that at the end of The Hundred this year, sort of mid-to-late August until India comes to New Zealand. I’ve got a good almost two months to rest up and work on a few things and work on my body.”</p><div class=" article-picture center"><img src="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/vm70q7/article70831098.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/11908_28_3_2026_21_10_32_2_DSC_3729.JPG" data-original="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/vm70q7/article70831098.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/11908_28_3_2026_21_10_32_2_DSC_3729.JPG" alt="Learning from the best: Ravindra cherished the support from the world’s best at the IPL." title="Learning from the best: Ravindra cherished the support from the world’s best at the IPL." class=" lazy" width="100%" height="100%"/><div class="pic-caption"><figcaption class="figure-caption align-text-bottom"><p><b>Learning from the best:</b> Ravindra cherished the support from the world’s best at the IPL. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini </p><img class="caption-image" src="https://assetsss.thehindu.com/theme/images/SSRX/lightbox-info.svg" alt="lightbox-info"/></figcaption></div><p class="caption"><b>Learning from the best:</b> Ravindra cherished the support from the world’s best at the IPL. | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini </p></div><h4 class="sub_head">On learning from multiple coaches and having New Zealand teammates around</h4><p>“It’s ultimately up to the player. I think it’s awesome having all these coaches, who are very good at what they do. They’re able to filter through what they say and it’s not just information after information. Then it’s on us as players to take what we need and make that our own. You never listen to everything blindly and you also never ignore everything because these guys are here to help you.</p><p>“They are different people, and earlier in my career, especially in the IPL, the amount of information could feel overwhelming because there’s stats, analysis, match-ups and so much data. But with experience, you get better at filtering what works for you.</p><p>“And it’s obviously nice to have the Kiwi guys here. We hang out a lot and when you’re in a long tournament away from home, it’s nice to have familiar faces around you. That’s what makes the New Zealand environment so good — we’re all such good mates.”</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 06, 2026</p></div> #Rachin #Ravindra #T20 #cricket #pushing #team #forgetting #wicket

Deadspin | Preakness pushes date back to 22 days after Kentucky Derby May 20, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; General view of the winners circle at Pimlico Race Course. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images In an effort to attract more horses who compete in the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes is pushing back its date in 2027. The event at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore will be held on May 23, a Sunday, 22 days after the first leg of the Triple Crown is contested at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky. Over the past five years, 82 out of 95 horses that ran in the Kentucky Derby sat out the Preakness. Bill Knauf, president and general manager of the Maryland Jockey Club, said in a statement, “Moving the Preakness to the fourth weekend in May is a historic announcement. We believe the Preakness and the entire Triple Crown series are positioned for growth and great success. This extra week between the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness opens the Preakness to potential participants who use modern training methods.” The Preakness also announced a broadcasting extension with NBC and Peacock through 2032. The date change includes moving the Black Eyed Susan Stakes, a top race for 3-year-old fillies, to the fourth Saturday in May. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said, “This agreement now means millions more people will be able to tune in and watch this iconic race weekend. It also means that when they view this race … it means that more people will watch and witness the greatest show in the Mid-Atlantic and continue to see Maryland on the world stage, exactly where Maryland belongs.” While the Preakness’ new date eases the tight window between the first two legs of the sport’s Triple Crown, it tightens the window between the last two. The Belmont Stakes in Elmont, N.Y., is scheduled for June 5, 2027, just 13 days after the Preakness. Knauf said, “Our focus is to preserve the tradition of horses running back in the Preakness and to enhance participation in the Triple Crown races. We acknowledge the great history of the traditional Triple Crown spacing between races, but recognize that change must always be examined. This is common in all professional sports. Now is the time for the Preakness.” The Preakness revealed its new plan in the wake of the formation of the Thoroughbred Championship Series, which will feature the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes but not the Baltimore race. The new six-race venture will feature three races at Churchill Downs, two at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., as well as the Belmont. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Preakness #pushes #date #days #Kentucky #Derby

#Deadspin #Preakness #pushes #date #days #Kentucky #Derby">

mwasimuddin125 0

May 20, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; General view of the winners circle at Pimlico Race Course. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

In an effort to attract more horses who compete in the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes is pushing back its date in 2027.

The event at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore will be held on May 23, a Sunday, 22 days after the first leg of the Triple Crown is contested at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.

Over the past five years, 82 out of 95 horses that ran in the Kentucky Derby sat out the Preakness.

Bill Knauf, president and general manager of the Maryland Jockey Club, said in a statement, “Moving the Preakness to the fourth weekend in May is a historic announcement. We believe the Preakness and the entire Triple Crown series are positioned for growth and great success. This extra week between the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness opens the Preakness to potential participants who use modern training methods.”

The Preakness also announced a broadcasting extension with NBC and Peacock through 2032. The date change includes moving the Black Eyed Susan Stakes, a top race for 3-year-old fillies, to the fourth Saturday in May.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said, “This agreement now means millions more people will be able to tune in and watch this iconic race weekend. It also means that when they view this race … it means that more people will watch and witness the greatest show in the Mid-Atlantic and continue to see Maryland on the world stage, exactly where Maryland belongs.”

While the Preakness’ new date eases the tight window between the first two legs of the sport’s Triple Crown, it tightens the window between the last two. The Belmont Stakes in Elmont, N.Y., is scheduled for June 5, 2027, just 13 days after the Preakness.

Knauf said, “Our focus is to preserve the tradition of horses running back in the Preakness and to enhance participation in the Triple Crown races. We acknowledge the great history of the traditional Triple Crown spacing between races, but recognize that change must always be examined. This is common in all professional sports. Now is the time for the Preakness.”

The Preakness revealed its new plan in the wake of the formation of the Thoroughbred Championship Series, which will feature the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes but not the Baltimore race. The new six-race venture will feature three races at Churchill Downs, two at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., as well as the Belmont.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Preakness #pushes #date #days #Kentucky #Derby">Deadspin | Preakness pushes date back to 22 days after Kentucky Derby

May 20, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; General view of the winners circle at Pimlico Race Course. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

In an effort to attract more horses who compete in the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes is pushing back its date in 2027.

The event at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore will be held on May 23, a Sunday, 22 days after the first leg of the Triple Crown is contested at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.

Over the past five years, 82 out of 95 horses that ran in the Kentucky Derby sat out the Preakness.

Bill Knauf, president and general manager of the Maryland Jockey Club, said in a statement, “Moving the Preakness to the fourth weekend in May is a historic announcement. We believe the Preakness and the entire Triple Crown series are positioned for growth and great success. This extra week between the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness opens the Preakness to potential participants who use modern training methods.”

The Preakness also announced a broadcasting extension with NBC and Peacock through 2032. The date change includes moving the Black Eyed Susan Stakes, a top race for 3-year-old fillies, to the fourth Saturday in May.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said, “This agreement now means millions more people will be able to tune in and watch this iconic race weekend. It also means that when they view this race … it means that more people will watch and witness the greatest show in the Mid-Atlantic and continue to see Maryland on the world stage, exactly where Maryland belongs.”

While the Preakness’ new date eases the tight window between the first two legs of the sport’s Triple Crown, it tightens the window between the last two. The Belmont Stakes in Elmont, N.Y., is scheduled for June 5, 2027, just 13 days after the Preakness.

Knauf said, “Our focus is to preserve the tradition of horses running back in the Preakness and to enhance participation in the Triple Crown races. We acknowledge the great history of the traditional Triple Crown spacing between races, but recognize that change must always be examined. This is common in all professional sports. Now is the time for the Preakness.”

The Preakness revealed its new plan in the wake of the formation of the Thoroughbred Championship Series, which will feature the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes but not the Baltimore race. The new six-race venture will feature three races at Churchill Downs, two at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., as well as the Belmont.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Preakness #pushes #date #days #Kentucky #Derby

Stefon Diggs finally has a home for the 2026 NFL season.

After putting up solid numbers for the New England Patriots last year — more on that in a moment — Diggs has signed with the Washington Commanders for the 2026 campaign. According to multiple sources, the veteran WR inked a one-year deal with the Commanders worth up to $12 million. It is something of a homecoming for Diggs, who played his high school football at Good Counsel in Olney and played his college football at Maryland.

With many readers entering fantasy draft season, the question is simple: What are the fantasy implications of Diggs signing with the Commanders?

After playing in just eight games during the 2024 season, as Diggs suffered a torn ACL in Week 8 while playing for the Houston Texans, he signed a three-year deal with the New England Patriots in May of 2025. Diggs appeared in all 17 regular-season games for New England, catching 85 passes for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns in Foxborough. Diggs led the Patriots in targets with 102 — he was the only New England receiver with more than 90 targets — and also led the team in both receptions and receiving yardage.

How he was used in New England could be a window into his usage in Washington. According to charting data from Pro Football Focus, Kayshon Boutte saw the most downfield targets on the Patriots a year ago (21) followed by Mack Hollins with 16. (Pro Football Focus defines these targets as coming 20 yards or more downfield).

Where Diggs led the way was in the short and intermediate areas of the field, often on crossing routes. Again, turning to charting data from Pro Football Focus, Diggs led the Patriots with 77 targets in the short area of the field, defined as throws between the line of scrimmage and nine yards downfield. Hollins was second on the Patriots, with only 30 such targets.

Turning now to the Commanders, last year Deebo Samuel led the team in those targets with 26. But with Samuel now in San Francisco, Diggs will be tasked with working that area of the field, allowing Terry McLaurin to continue stretching defenses in the vertical passing game. That is where McLaurin is at his best, and if you look at his 2024 numbers (when playing with a healthy Jayden Daniels) McLaurin saw a staggering 32 deep targets that season, the most on the Commanders by far.

For context, Noah Brown and Dyami Brown tied for second with nine each.

Another factor to consider is this: Washington’s new offensive coordinator. David Blough steps into the role, replacing Kliff Kingsbury. The expectation is that Blough will lean into the under-center, play-action passing game, a schematic tweak that will create opportunities for Diggs on those crossing routes underneath.

McLaurin will be Washington’s WR1, with Diggs slotting nicely into that WR2 role. He’ll see volume in this system — meaning he offers a nice boost in PPR formats — and while McLaurin could siphon the bulk of touchdowns (remember Diggs had only four a season ago) and Daniels could vulture some as well with his legs, there will be production to be gained by drafting Diggs in the later rounds as a WR3 with WR2 upside.

#Stefon #Diggs #fantasy #football #outlook #Commanders #signing #means">

mwasimuddin125 0

Stefon Diggs finally has a home for the 2026 NFL season.

With many readers entering fantasy draft season, the question is simple: What are the fantasy implications of Diggs signing with the Commanders?

For context, Noah Brown and Dyami Brown tied for second with nine each.

#Stefon #Diggs #fantasy #football #outlook #Commanders #signing #means">Stefon Diggs fantasy football outlook: What Commanders signing means for 2026

Stefon Diggs finally has a home for the 2026 NFL season.

With many readers entering fantasy draft season, the question is simple: What are the fantasy implications of Diggs signing with the Commanders?

For context, Noah Brown and Dyami Brown tied for second with nine each.

#Stefon #Diggs #fantasy #football #outlook #Commanders #signing #means

Two former Iranian women footballers said Thursday they were “proud” to have been granted Australian citizenship after being branded traitors at home for refusing to sing the national anthem before a game.

Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh were members of a group of seven from Iran’s delegation who asked for Australia’s protection following the high-profile protest during the women’s Asian Cup in March.

With their demands for protection an embarrassment for Iran’s leaders but lauded by US President Donald Trump, five later changed their minds and returned home.

Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh stayed, however, and were granted Australian citizenship at a ceremony on Wednesday overseen by interior minister Tony Burke.

“Yesterday was a truly special and unforgettable day for me. I feel proud and deeply grateful to become an Australian citizen,” Ramezanisadeh said in a statement.

“After everything we’ve been through and all the challenges we faced, this moment means more than words can express,” Pasandideh added.

A week after seeking asylum, the pair was pictured smiling and training with Australian club Brisbane Roar, which on Wednesday congratulated the pair.

“What they have been through since February is more than most people deal with in a lifetime,” a spokesman for the club said.

“To see them arrive at this point is something everyone here at Brisbane Roar is glad to have had a small part in,” they added.

“Queensland is their home now. If they ever want to pull on a training top and come back out with us, the door will always stay open.”

ALSO READ: Iran women football players thank Australian government for protection

The plight of the rest of the team remains unclear since their return to Iran.

AFP reporters saw them cross into their homeland from Turkey on a bus wearing the national team tracksuits and with their hair covered.

Soon after, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on X that the players and their support team were “children of the homeland and the people of Iran embrace them”.

By returning, they had “disappointed the enemies (of Iran) and did not surrender to deception and intimidation by anti-Iran elements”, he added.

Published on Aug 06, 2026

#Iranian #women #footballers #granted #Australian #citizenship">

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Two former Iranian women footballers said Thursday they were “proud” to have been granted Australian citizenship after being branded traitors at home for refusing to sing the national anthem before a game.
Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh were members of a group of seven from Iran’s delegation who asked for Australia’s protection following the high-profile protest during the women’s Asian Cup in March.
With their demands for protection an embarrassment for Iran’s leaders but lauded by US President Donald Trump, five later changed their minds and returned home.
Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh stayed, however, and were granted Australian citizenship at a ceremony on Wednesday overseen by interior minister Tony Burke.
“Yesterday was a truly special and unforgettable day for me. I feel proud and deeply grateful to become an Australian citizen,” Ramezanisadeh said in a statement.
“After everything we’ve been through and all the challenges we faced, this moment means more than words can express,” Pasandideh added.
A week after seeking asylum, the pair was pictured smiling and training with Australian club Brisbane Roar, which on Wednesday congratulated the pair.
“What they have been through since February is more than most people deal with in a lifetime,” a spokesman for the club said.
“To see them arrive at this point is something everyone here at Brisbane Roar is glad to have had a small part in,” they added.
“Queensland is their home now. If they ever want to pull on a training top and come back out with us, the door will always stay open.”
ALSO READ: Iran women football players thank Australian government for protection
The plight of the rest of the team remains unclear since their return to Iran.
AFP reporters saw them cross into their homeland from Turkey on a bus wearing the national team tracksuits and with their hair covered.
Soon after, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on X that the players and their support team were “children of the homeland and the people of Iran embrace them”.
By returning, they had “disappointed the enemies (of Iran) and did not surrender to deception and intimidation by anti-Iran elements”, he added.
Published on Aug 06, 2026

#Iranian #women #footballers #granted #Australian #citizenship">Former Iranian women footballers granted Australian citizenship