Deadspin | Rangers place LHP Robert Garcia (shoulder) on 15-day injured list Apr 16, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Texas Rangers pitcher Robert Garcia (62) throws a pitch against the Athletics during the sixth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images The Texas Rangers placed left-handed reliever Robert Garcia on the 15-day injured list on Thursday due to left shoulder inflammation. The move is retroactive to Monday. In other moves, the Rangers selected right-hander Peyton Gray’s contract from Triple-A Round Rock and designated catcher Willie MacIver for assignment. Garcia, 29, has not played since April 16, when he retired the only batter he faced in a 9-6 road win against the Athletics. He is 0-1 with a 3.38 ERA, seven walks and six strikeouts in eight innings over nine games in his second season with Texas. Opposing left-handed batters are 0-for-13 with four strikeouts against Garcia this season. For his career, Garcia is 9-17 with nine saves, a 3.57 ERA, 57 walks and 182 strikeouts in 163 2/3 innings over 177 games, all in relief, for the Miami Marlins (2023), Washington Nationals (2023-24) and Rangers (2025-26). Gray, 30, is 1-0 at Round Rock with two saves, a 0.00 ERA, two walks and 15 strikeouts in 12 2/3 innings over seven relief appearances. Opponents are batting .186 (8-for-43) against him. If he makes his major league debut, Gray will be the oldest player to do so with Texas since left-hander Hyeon-jong Yang at age 33 on April 26, 2021, per the Rangers. MacIver, 29, batted .186 (19-for-102) in 32 games last season with the Athletics. The Rangers selected him off waivers from the Athletics on Nov. 5, 2025. He was batting .170 (8-for-47) in 14 games with Round Rock this season. The move was made to create room on the club’s major league roster. The team has seven days to trade, release or outright MacIver to the minor leagues. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Rangers #place #LHP #Robert #Garcia #shoulder #15day #injured #list

Deadspin | Rangers place LHP Robert Garcia (shoulder) on 15-day injured list
Apr 16, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Texas Rangers pitcher Robert Garcia (62) throws a pitch against the Athletics during the sixth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images

The Texas Rangers placed left-handed reliever Robert Garcia on the 15-day injured list on Thursday due to left shoulder inflammation.

The move is retroactive to Monday. In other moves, the Rangers selected right-hander Peyton Gray’s contract from Triple-A Round Rock and designated catcher Willie MacIver for assignment.

Garcia, 29, has not played since April 16, when he retired the only batter he faced in a 9-6 road win against the Athletics. He is 0-1 with a 3.38 ERA, seven walks and six strikeouts in eight innings over nine games in his second season with Texas.

Opposing left-handed batters are 0-for-13 with four strikeouts against Garcia this season.

For his career, Garcia is 9-17 with nine saves, a 3.57 ERA, 57 walks and 182 strikeouts in 163 2/3 innings over 177 games, all in relief, for the Miami Marlins (2023), Washington Nationals (2023-24) and Rangers (2025-26).

Gray, 30, is 1-0 at Round Rock with two saves, a 0.00 ERA, two walks and 15 strikeouts in 12 2/3 innings over seven relief appearances. Opponents are batting .186 (8-for-43) against him.

If he makes his major league debut, Gray will be the oldest player to do so with Texas since left-hander Hyeon-jong Yang at age 33 on April 26, 2021, per the Rangers.

MacIver, 29, batted .186 (19-for-102) in 32 games last season with the Athletics. The Rangers selected him off waivers from the Athletics on Nov. 5, 2025. He was batting .170 (8-for-47) in 14 games with Round Rock this season.

The move was made to create room on the club’s major league roster. The team has seven days to trade, release or outright MacIver to the minor leagues.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Rangers #place #LHP #Robert #Garcia #shoulder #15day #injured #list

Sports news April 25, 2026

Apr 16, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Texas Rangers pitcher Robert Garcia (62) throws a pitch against the Athletics during the sixth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images

The Texas Rangers placed left-handed reliever Robert Garcia on the 15-day injured list on Thursday due to left shoulder inflammation.

The move is retroactive to Monday. In other moves, the Rangers selected right-hander Peyton Gray’s contract from Triple-A Round Rock and designated catcher Willie MacIver for assignment.

Garcia, 29, has not played since April 16, when he retired the only batter he faced in a 9-6 road win against the Athletics. He is 0-1 with a 3.38 ERA, seven walks and six strikeouts in eight innings over nine games in his second season with Texas.

Opposing left-handed batters are 0-for-13 with four strikeouts against Garcia this season.

For his career, Garcia is 9-17 with nine saves, a 3.57 ERA, 57 walks and 182 strikeouts in 163 2/3 innings over 177 games, all in relief, for the Miami Marlins (2023), Washington Nationals (2023-24) and Rangers (2025-26).

Gray, 30, is 1-0 at Round Rock with two saves, a 0.00 ERA, two walks and 15 strikeouts in 12 2/3 innings over seven relief appearances. Opponents are batting .186 (8-for-43) against him.

If he makes his major league debut, Gray will be the oldest player to do so with Texas since left-hander Hyeon-jong Yang at age 33 on April 26, 2021, per the Rangers.

MacIver, 29, batted .186 (19-for-102) in 32 games last season with the Athletics. The Rangers selected him off waivers from the Athletics on Nov. 5, 2025. He was batting .170 (8-for-47) in 14 games with Round Rock this season.

The move was made to create room on the club’s major league roster. The team has seven days to trade, release or outright MacIver to the minor leagues.

–Field Level Media

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#Deadspin #Rangers #place #LHP #Robert #Garcia #shoulder #15day #injured #list

Deadspin | Blue Jays in evaluation mode as homestand opens vs. Guardians <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-900/28775611.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28775611.jpg" alt="MLB: Toronto Blue Jays at Los Angeles Angels" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 20, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Jeff Hoffman (23) delivers during the ninth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images  </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>The Toronto Blue Jays will try to gain some traction during a six-game homestand that starts Friday night against the Cleveland Guardians.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>The Blue Jays completed a 4-5 road trip with a 7-3 loss to the Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday as they continue to seek the magic of last season.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>The loss snapped a three-game winning streak that came after the Blue Jays had dropped four straight.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>“I thought we played way better as the trip went on, obviously, and taking some positives out of the first two games here, even (Wednesday),” Blue Jays manager John Schneider said.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>The Guardians also lost on Wednesday, 2-0, in the rubber match of a three-game series with the Houston Astros that completed their 4-3 homestand.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>“This series in particular could have gone either way,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said. “We could have swept, but ‘could haves’ don’t count. So we’ve just got to continue to work every day.”</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>The Blue Jays and Guardians both had Thursday off. The Guardians had played 13 consecutive days and were 6-7 in that stretch.</p> </section><section id="section-8"> <p>“This 13-game stretch was long and these guys worked really hard and we’re going to enjoy this off day and get ready to go Friday night,” Vogt said.</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>The Guardians will face Blue Jays right-hander Max Scherzer (1-2, 7.16 ERA) on Friday. Scherzer is 9-5 with a 4.10 ERA in 22 career starts against Cleveland.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-10"> <p>Cleveland will start right-hander Gavin Williams (3-1, 2.12) in the opener. He has a 2.76 ERA with no decisions in three career starts against Toronto.</p> </section> <section id="section-11"> <p>Schneider said he would use the off day to consider how to deal with struggling closer Jeff Hoffman, who gave up a run on two hits Tuesday before being rescued by Louis Varland.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>“We’ll re-evaluate everything, talk with him, see how he’s doing,” Schneider said. “He’s going through it, obviously, a little bit.”</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>Schneider said he will continue to support Hoffman and try to use him where he can have success.</p> </section><section id="section-14"> <p>“He’s a big boy,” Schneider said. “He understands that the spotlight is on him a little bit, and rightfully so. So it’s like, ‘How can we be there to support you? How can we help you get ahead of hitters? Is it mechanical? Is it between the ears a little bit? What’s going on here, and how can we help?”</p> </section><section id="section-15"> <p>Varland could be used as closer, but he has also been valuable in the seventh or eighth. “Sometimes the game could be won or lost in the eighth, top of the order,” Schneider said. “How do you weigh where to use Louis?”</p> </section><section id="section-16"> <p>Guardians infielder Brayan Rocchio, who has had a solid start to the season, was 0-for-4 Wednesday to end a career-best eight-game hitting streak. He was 13-for-27 (.481/.517/.778) with two home runs and nine RBIs in that span.</p> </section><section id="section-17"> <p>“Brayan’s growing up,” Vogt said on Tuesday after Rocchio’s single ignited a six-run eighth. “Brayan is figuring out who he is. He’s on a nice little run right now, and we want to keep that going as long as we can. I think for Rocchio, it’s just go play. He knows what his role is. His role is to get on base, whether that’s taking a walk (or) getting something he can handle to hit.”</p> </section><section id="section-18"> <p>Rocchio is staying grounded. </p> </section><section id="section-19"> <p>“As a baseball player, you never have to feel comfortable at the plate because this sport can humble you,” he said.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-20"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #Blue #Jays #evaluation #mode #homestand #opens #Guardians

Britney Spears’ Sons Raise Eyebrows After ‘Moving’ Into The Singer’s Mansion While She Is In Rehab

#Deadspin #Crew #acquire #Chilean #Gonzalo #Tapia #loan">

Deadspin | Crew acquire Chilean F Gonzalo Tapia on loan Aug 4, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; General view of official balls prior to the warm up between Vancouver Whitecaps and Atlante FC during the Leagues Cup Phase One match at BC Place. Mandatory Credit: Simon Fearn-Imagn Images The Columbus Crew acquired forward Gonzalo Tapia on loan from Brazilian Serie A side Sao Paulo on Wednesday. The 24-year-old Chilean’s loan period runs through the 2027 MLS sprint season and includes a purchase option. Tapia has recorded 30 goals and 10 assists in 172 career matches with multiple clubs across South America. “Gonzalo is a talented and hard-working player who brings quality and competition to our attack,” Crew general manager Issa Tall said. “We believe he has the attributes to make an immediate impact to the team. We’re excited to welcome Gonzalo to Columbus and look forward to integrating him into the group and seeing the contributions he’ll make.” Adding reinforcements to our attack ?? pic.twitter.com/zp9V7KSJsE— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) August 5, 2026 Before joining Sao Paulo in 2025, Tapia played for Argentina’s River Plate (2025) and Chile’s Universidad Catolica (2020-24). Internationally, he has scored three goals in 12 caps for Chile since his 2024 debut. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Crew #acquire #Chilean #Gonzalo #Tapia #loan

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Aug 4, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; General view of official balls prior to the warm up between Vancouver Whitecaps and Atlante FC during the Leagues Cup Phase One match at BC Place. Mandatory Credit: Simon Fearn-Imagn Images

The Columbus Crew acquired forward Gonzalo Tapia on loan from Brazilian Serie A side Sao Paulo on Wednesday.

The 24-year-old Chilean’s loan period runs through the 2027 MLS sprint season and includes a purchase option.

Tapia has recorded 30 goals and 10 assists in 172 career matches with multiple clubs across South America.

“Gonzalo is a talented and hard-working player who brings quality and competition to our attack,” Crew general manager Issa Tall said. “We believe he has the attributes to make an immediate impact to the team. We’re excited to welcome Gonzalo to Columbus and look forward to integrating him into the group and seeing the contributions he’ll make.”

Adding reinforcements to our attack ?? pic.twitter.com/zp9V7KSJsE
— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) August 5, 2026

Before joining Sao Paulo in 2025, Tapia played for Argentina’s River Plate (2025) and Chile’s Universidad Catolica (2020-24). Internationally, he has scored three goals in 12 caps for Chile since his 2024 debut.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Crew #acquire #Chilean #Gonzalo #Tapia #loan">Deadspin | Crew acquire Chilean F Gonzalo Tapia on loan

Aug 4, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; General view of official balls prior to the warm up between Vancouver Whitecaps and Atlante FC during the Leagues Cup Phase One match at BC Place. Mandatory Credit: Simon Fearn-Imagn Images

The Columbus Crew acquired forward Gonzalo Tapia on loan from Brazilian Serie A side Sao Paulo on Wednesday.

The 24-year-old Chilean’s loan period runs through the 2027 MLS sprint season and includes a purchase option.

Tapia has recorded 30 goals and 10 assists in 172 career matches with multiple clubs across South America.

“Gonzalo is a talented and hard-working player who brings quality and competition to our attack,” Crew general manager Issa Tall said. “We believe he has the attributes to make an immediate impact to the team. We’re excited to welcome Gonzalo to Columbus and look forward to integrating him into the group and seeing the contributions he’ll make.”

Adding reinforcements to our attack ?? pic.twitter.com/zp9V7KSJsE
— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) August 5, 2026

Before joining Sao Paulo in 2025, Tapia played for Argentina’s River Plate (2025) and Chile’s Universidad Catolica (2020-24). Internationally, he has scored three goals in 12 caps for Chile since his 2024 debut.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Crew #acquire #Chilean #Gonzalo #Tapia #loan

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) — WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

BROOKLYN, NY - OCTOBER 1: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty plays defense on A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during Round Two Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs on October 1, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) — WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

#Waytooearly #WNBA #playoff #series #matchups #predictions">

Way-too-early WNBA playoff series matchups and predictions If the WNBA playoffs started today, we’d be in store for four riveting first-round series. The league-best Minnesota Lynx would face the surging Washington Mystics. The reigning champions, Las Vegas Aces, would face the New York Liberty. Gabby Williams and the Golden State Valkyries would host Angel Reese and the Atlanta Dream. And Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever would battle Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings.Here’s how the first round would stack up, and my way-too-early predictions for who will emerge victorious.#1 Minnesota Lynx (25-6) vs #8 Washington Mystics (16-12)WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) Getty ImagesThe Lynx will be heavily favored in this match-up, though the Mystics have won 4 straight and are playing some of their best basketball of the season. Minnesota has been led by Rookie of the Year shoo-in Olivia Miles, as well as a supporting cast that includes Courtney Williams, Kayla McBride, and Natasha Howard.On top of that, Napheesa Collier is back from double ankle surgeries that sidelined her for most of the season. Minnesota has won 10 straight games and have outscored opponents by an average of 9.3 points per game this season.The Mystics, therefore, face an uphill climb in the first round. Shakira Austin, Kiki Iriafen, and Sonia Citron have all had big-time seasons, but all three have very limited playoff experience (Austin played two postseason games in 2022, while Iriafen and Citron did not make the playoffs as rookies). Washington will be happy to get playoff experience for their young core, but this is a formidable first-round assignment. The two teams have split their regular season series so far, and both games came down to the wire.Another fun wrinkle? Former Notre Dame guards Olivia Miles and Sonia Citron would be squaring off.Tentative Prediction: Lynx in 2#2 Las Vegas Aces (21-9) vs #7 New York Liberty (18-13)BROOKLYN, NY – OCTOBER 1: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty plays defense on A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during Round Two Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs on October 1, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) NBAE via Getty ImagesFew could have projected that the Aces and Liberty would square off in the first round. The two teams faced off in the 2023 Finals, with Las Vegas emerging victorious, and then again in the 2024 Semi-Finals, with New York coming out on top en route to their franchise-first championship.But New York has had a down year and unexpectedly slipped to the 7th-best record in the league under first-year head coach Chris DeMarco. It still could all come together. New York has been better with Leonie Fiebich in the lineup, and Sabrina Ionescu is finally healthy. But Breanna Stewart needs more from her supporting cast — whether that’s more consistency from former MVP Jonquel Jones or more from the bench.The Aces have won three titles in the last four seasons, and while they haven’t had a perfect season, A’ja Wilson continues to play some of the best basketball of her career while the championship backcourt of Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray continues to thrive.New York beat Las Vegas in the Commissioner’s Cup, but that was with Wilson sidelined, so it’s hard to know how much of what worked then would carry over to a postseason matchup. The Aces and Liberty split the other two matchups.Tentative Prediction: Aces in 3#3 Golden State Valkyries (21-9) vs #6 Atlanta Dream (18-11)ATLANTA, GA – JULY 4: Jordin Canada #3 of the Atlanta Dream dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Valkyries on July 4, 2026 at Gateway Center Arena at College Park in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images) NBAE via Getty ImagesThe Valkyries swept their season series against the Dream over the span of a week, beating them three times as part of Atlanta’s season-worst 5-game losing streak. Was that just a bad week at work for the Dream, or a sign of potential trouble to come in a postseason matchup?Angel Reese has been a revelation for Atlanta, and Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray were both All-Stars, again. But will they be able to muster up a play style in the playoffs they couldn’t find in the regular season matchup?Golden State, meanwhile, has been a powerhouse. But will their offensive woes catch up to them in a slowed-down playoff environment? The Valkyries have been elite defensively, but don’t quite have the go-to scoring options that other teams of their caliber do.Tentative Prediction: Valkyries in 3#4 Dallas Wings (19-11) vs #5 Indiana Fever (19-11) INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MAY 9: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Wings on May 9, 2026 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse inIndianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Dean/NBAE via Getty Images) NBAE via Getty ImagesThis matchup would feature three of the most electric guards in the league in Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Kelsey Mitchell. Plus, No. 1 overall pick Azzi Fudd has had an underrated rookie campaign.Both the Wings and the Fever have had good seasons, and would make for a star-studded first-round matchup if current standings hold come playoff time. This would be an offensive battle, as both teams have some defensive deficiencies. It will also be the first time Bueckers laces up for playoff action (Clark played two playoff games in her rookie season, but was sidelined in her sophomore campaign).The Wings and Fever faced off on Opening Day, with the Wings walking away with a 3-point victory. They haven’t faced off since, so it’s anybody’s guess how things would fare come September.Tentative Prediction: Fever in 3 #Waytooearly #WNBA #playoff #series #matchups #predictions

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If the WNBA playoffs started today, we’d be in store for four riveting first-round series. The league-best Minnesota Lynx would face the surging Washington Mystics. The reigning champions, Las Vegas Aces, would face the New York Liberty. Gabby Williams and the Golden State Valkyries would host Angel Reese and the Atlanta Dream. And Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever would battle Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings.
Here’s how the first round would stack up, and my way-too-early predictions for who will emerge victorious.
#1 Minnesota Lynx (25-6) vs #8 Washington Mystics (16-12)
WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
Getty Images
The Lynx will be heavily favored in this match-up, though the Mystics have won 4 straight and are playing some of their best basketball of the season. Minnesota has been led by Rookie of the Year shoo-in Olivia Miles, as well as a supporting cast that includes Courtney Williams, Kayla McBride, and Natasha Howard.
On top of that, Napheesa Collier is back from double ankle surgeries that sidelined her for most of the season. Minnesota has won 10 straight games and have outscored opponents by an average of 9.3 points per game this season.
The Mystics, therefore, face an uphill climb in the first round. Shakira Austin, Kiki Iriafen, and Sonia Citron have all had big-time seasons, but all three have very limited playoff experience (Austin played two postseason games in 2022, while Iriafen and Citron did not make the playoffs as rookies). Washington will be happy to get playoff experience for their young core, but this is a formidable first-round assignment. The two teams have split their regular season series so far, and both games came down to the wire.
Another fun wrinkle? Former Notre Dame guards Olivia Miles and Sonia Citron would be squaring off.
Tentative Prediction: Lynx in 2
#2 Las Vegas Aces (21-9) vs #7 New York Liberty (18-13)
BROOKLYN, NY – OCTOBER 1: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty plays defense on A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during Round Two Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs on October 1, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images
Few could have projected that the Aces and Liberty would square off in the first round. The two teams faced off in the 2023 Finals, with Las Vegas emerging victorious, and then again in the 2024 Semi-Finals, with New York coming out on top en route to their franchise-first championship.
But New York has had a down year and unexpectedly slipped to the 7th-best record in the league under first-year head coach Chris DeMarco. It still could all come together. New York has been better with Leonie Fiebich in the lineup, and Sabrina Ionescu is finally healthy. But Breanna Stewart needs more from her supporting cast — whether that’s more consistency from former MVP Jonquel Jones or more from the bench.
The Aces have won three titles in the last four seasons, and while they haven’t had a perfect season, A’ja Wilson continues to play some of the best basketball of her career while the championship backcourt of Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray continues to thrive.
New York beat Las Vegas in the Commissioner’s Cup, but that was with Wilson sidelined, so it’s hard to know how much of what worked then would carry over to a postseason matchup. The Aces and Liberty split the other two matchups.
Tentative Prediction: Aces in 3
#3 Golden State Valkyries (21-9) vs #6 Atlanta Dream (18-11)
ATLANTA, GA – JULY 4: Jordin Canada #3 of the Atlanta Dream dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Valkyries on July 4, 2026 at Gateway Center Arena at College Park in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images
The Valkyries swept their season series against the Dream over the span of a week, beating them three times as part of Atlanta’s season-worst 5-game losing streak. Was that just a bad week at work for the Dream, or a sign of potential trouble to come in a postseason matchup?
Angel Reese has been a revelation for Atlanta, and Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray were both All-Stars, again. But will they be able to muster up a play style in the playoffs they couldn’t find in the regular season matchup?
Golden State, meanwhile, has been a powerhouse. But will their offensive woes catch up to them in a slowed-down playoff environment? The Valkyries have been elite defensively, but don’t quite have the go-to scoring options that other teams of their caliber do.
Tentative Prediction: Valkyries in 3
#4 Dallas Wings (19-11) vs #5 Indiana Fever (19-11)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MAY 9: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Wings on May 9, 2026 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse inIndianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Dean/NBAE via Getty Images)
NBAE via Getty Images
This matchup would feature three of the most electric guards in the league in Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Kelsey Mitchell. Plus, No. 1 overall pick Azzi Fudd has had an underrated rookie campaign.
Both the Wings and the Fever have had good seasons, and would make for a star-studded first-round matchup if current standings hold come playoff time. This would be an offensive battle, as both teams have some defensive deficiencies. It will also be the first time Bueckers laces up for playoff action (Clark played two playoff games in her rookie season, but was sidelined in her sophomore campaign).
The Wings and Fever faced off on Opening Day, with the Wings walking away with a 3-point victory. They haven’t faced off since, so it’s anybody’s guess how things would fare come September.
Tentative Prediction: Fever in 3

#Waytooearly #WNBA #playoff #series #matchups #predictions">Way-too-early WNBA playoff series matchups and predictions

If the WNBA playoffs started today, we’d be in store for four riveting first-round series. The league-best Minnesota Lynx would face the surging Washington Mystics. The reigning champions, Las Vegas Aces, would face the New York Liberty. Gabby Williams and the Golden State Valkyries would host Angel Reese and the Atlanta Dream. And Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever would battle Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings.

Here’s how the first round would stack up, and my way-too-early predictions for who will emerge victorious.

#1 Minnesota Lynx (25-6) vs #8 Washington Mystics (16-12)

WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 24: Olivia Miles #5 of the Minnesota Lynx shoots the ball against Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the third quarter at CareFirst Arena on June 24, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Lynx defeated the Mystics 78-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

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The Lynx will be heavily favored in this match-up, though the Mystics have won 4 straight and are playing some of their best basketball of the season. Minnesota has been led by Rookie of the Year shoo-in Olivia Miles, as well as a supporting cast that includes Courtney Williams, Kayla McBride, and Natasha Howard.

On top of that, Napheesa Collier is back from double ankle surgeries that sidelined her for most of the season. Minnesota has won 10 straight games and have outscored opponents by an average of 9.3 points per game this season.

The Mystics, therefore, face an uphill climb in the first round. Shakira Austin, Kiki Iriafen, and Sonia Citron have all had big-time seasons, but all three have very limited playoff experience (Austin played two postseason games in 2022, while Iriafen and Citron did not make the playoffs as rookies). Washington will be happy to get playoff experience for their young core, but this is a formidable first-round assignment. The two teams have split their regular season series so far, and both games came down to the wire.

Another fun wrinkle? Former Notre Dame guards Olivia Miles and Sonia Citron would be squaring off.

Tentative Prediction: Lynx in 2

#2 Las Vegas Aces (21-9) vs #7 New York Liberty (18-13)

BROOKLYN, NY – OCTOBER 1: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty plays defense on A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during Round Two Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs on October 1, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Few could have projected that the Aces and Liberty would square off in the first round. The two teams faced off in the 2023 Finals, with Las Vegas emerging victorious, and then again in the 2024 Semi-Finals, with New York coming out on top en route to their franchise-first championship.

But New York has had a down year and unexpectedly slipped to the 7th-best record in the league under first-year head coach Chris DeMarco. It still could all come together. New York has been better with Leonie Fiebich in the lineup, and Sabrina Ionescu is finally healthy. But Breanna Stewart needs more from her supporting cast — whether that’s more consistency from former MVP Jonquel Jones or more from the bench.

The Aces have won three titles in the last four seasons, and while they haven’t had a perfect season, A’ja Wilson continues to play some of the best basketball of her career while the championship backcourt of Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray continues to thrive.

New York beat Las Vegas in the Commissioner’s Cup, but that was with Wilson sidelined, so it’s hard to know how much of what worked then would carry over to a postseason matchup. The Aces and Liberty split the other two matchups.

Tentative Prediction: Aces in 3

#3 Golden State Valkyries (21-9) vs #6 Atlanta Dream (18-11)

ATLANTA, GA – JULY 4: Jordin Canada #3 of the Atlanta Dream dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Valkyries on July 4, 2026 at Gateway Center Arena at College Park in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)

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The Valkyries swept their season series against the Dream over the span of a week, beating them three times as part of Atlanta’s season-worst 5-game losing streak. Was that just a bad week at work for the Dream, or a sign of potential trouble to come in a postseason matchup?

Angel Reese has been a revelation for Atlanta, and Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray were both All-Stars, again. But will they be able to muster up a play style in the playoffs they couldn’t find in the regular season matchup?

Golden State, meanwhile, has been a powerhouse. But will their offensive woes catch up to them in a slowed-down playoff environment? The Valkyries have been elite defensively, but don’t quite have the go-to scoring options that other teams of their caliber do.

Tentative Prediction: Valkyries in 3

#4 Dallas Wings (19-11) vs #5 Indiana Fever (19-11)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MAY 9: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Wings on May 9, 2026 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse inIndianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Dean/NBAE via Getty Images)

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This matchup would feature three of the most electric guards in the league in Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Kelsey Mitchell. Plus, No. 1 overall pick Azzi Fudd has had an underrated rookie campaign.

Both the Wings and the Fever have had good seasons, and would make for a star-studded first-round matchup if current standings hold come playoff time. This would be an offensive battle, as both teams have some defensive deficiencies. It will also be the first time Bueckers laces up for playoff action (Clark played two playoff games in her rookie season, but was sidelined in her sophomore campaign).

The Wings and Fever faced off on Opening Day, with the Wings walking away with a 3-point victory. They haven’t faced off since, so it’s anybody’s guess how things would fare come September.

Tentative Prediction: Fever in 3

#Waytooearly #WNBA #playoff #series #matchups #predictions

Mykhailo Mudryk played for Chelsea for the first time in nearly two years on Wednesday but was unable to stop his side falling to a 0-1 friendly defeat to Juventus in Hong Kong.

The Ukrainian winger came on as a substitute for Nicolas Jackson in the 82nd minute, drawing applause from his teammate and loud cheers from thousands of Chelsea fans at Kai Tak Stadium.

Mudryk had not played since November 2024 because of a doping ban, but won permission to resume his football career on Friday after winning an appeal.

Despite a lively cameo on the left side, it was Juventus which took the spoils thanks to a wonderful second-half strike from Kosovo international Edon Zhegrova.

Neither side could find the breakthrough in a drab first half as two experimental line-ups, with Chelsea choosing to leave out Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill, struggled to create clear-cut chances.

Danny Welbeck could have scored a goal on his Chelsea debut but the veteran England striker failed to direct a flicked header on target after 11 minutes.

Juventus came closest a few minutes before half-time when midfielder Jeremie Boga took aim from just outside the penalty area and forced Blues’ goalkeeper Robert Sanchez into a diving save.

Early in the second period, a long ball from Chelsea skipper Moises Caicedo put full-back Marco Palestra in on goal but his tame shot could not beat Mattia Perin.

Juventus finally broke the deadlock with a moment of magic in the 68th minute, Kenan Yildiz squaring for Zhegrova who curled into the top corner from outside the area.

Both sides rang the changes but no number of substitutions gave Chelsea the cutting edge it craved as the game petered out.

Published on Aug 05, 2026

#Chelsea #Juventus #Mudryk #returns #Alonso #suffers #consecutive #losses #Blues #boss">

Chelsea vs Juventus: Mudryk returns but Alonso suffers consecutive losses as Blues’ boss Mykhailo Mudryk played for Chelsea for the first time in nearly two years on Wednesday but was unable to stop his side falling to a 0-1 friendly defeat to Juventus in Hong Kong.The Ukrainian winger came on as a substitute for Nicolas Jackson in the 82nd minute, drawing applause from his teammate and loud cheers from thousands of Chelsea fans at Kai Tak Stadium.Mudryk had not played since November 2024 because of a doping ban, but won permission to resume his football career on Friday after winning an appeal.Despite a lively cameo on the left side, it was Juventus which took the spoils thanks to a wonderful second-half strike from Kosovo international Edon Zhegrova.Neither side could find the breakthrough in a drab first half as two experimental line-ups, with Chelsea choosing to leave out Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill, struggled to create clear-cut chances.Danny Welbeck could have scored a goal on his Chelsea debut but the veteran England striker failed to direct a flicked header on target after 11 minutes.Juventus came closest a few minutes before half-time when midfielder Jeremie Boga took aim from just outside the penalty area and forced Blues’ goalkeeper Robert Sanchez into a diving save.Early in the second period, a long ball from Chelsea skipper Moises Caicedo put full-back Marco Palestra in on goal but his tame shot could not beat Mattia Perin.Juventus finally broke the deadlock with a moment of magic in the 68th minute, Kenan Yildiz squaring for Zhegrova who curled into the top corner from outside the area.Both sides rang the changes but no number of substitutions gave Chelsea the cutting edge it craved as the game petered out.Published on Aug 05, 2026 #Chelsea #Juventus #Mudryk #returns #Alonso #suffers #consecutive #losses #Blues #boss

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Mykhailo Mudryk played for Chelsea for the first time in nearly two years on Wednesday but was unable to stop his side falling to a 0-1 friendly defeat to Juventus in Hong Kong.
The Ukrainian winger came on as a substitute for Nicolas Jackson in the 82nd minute, drawing applause from his teammate and loud cheers from thousands of Chelsea fans at Kai Tak Stadium.
Mudryk had not played since November 2024 because of a doping ban, but won permission to resume his football career on Friday after winning an appeal.
Despite a lively cameo on the left side, it was Juventus which took the spoils thanks to a wonderful second-half strike from Kosovo international Edon Zhegrova.
Neither side could find the breakthrough in a drab first half as two experimental line-ups, with Chelsea choosing to leave out Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill, struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Danny Welbeck could have scored a goal on his Chelsea debut but the veteran England striker failed to direct a flicked header on target after 11 minutes.
Juventus came closest a few minutes before half-time when midfielder Jeremie Boga took aim from just outside the penalty area and forced Blues’ goalkeeper Robert Sanchez into a diving save.
Early in the second period, a long ball from Chelsea skipper Moises Caicedo put full-back Marco Palestra in on goal but his tame shot could not beat Mattia Perin.
Juventus finally broke the deadlock with a moment of magic in the 68th minute, Kenan Yildiz squaring for Zhegrova who curled into the top corner from outside the area.
Both sides rang the changes but no number of substitutions gave Chelsea the cutting edge it craved as the game petered out.
Published on Aug 05, 2026

#Chelsea #Juventus #Mudryk #returns #Alonso #suffers #consecutive #losses #Blues #boss">Chelsea vs Juventus: Mudryk returns but Alonso suffers consecutive losses as Blues’ boss