MLB Playoff Teams Off to Shocking Slow Starts in 2026 | Deadspin.com Oct 16, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) hits a solo home run against the Seattle Mariners in the seventh inning during game four of the ALCS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images Welcome to the upside down, where four Major League Baseball teams that made the playoffs in 2025 find themselves in last place heading into action Friday.The postseason underachievers include the Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers and Seattle Mariners in the American League, along with the Chicago Cubs in the National League. Also off to a sluggish start are the reigning AL champion Toronto Blue Jays, who aren’t in last place but do have a -22 run differential.The division races are subject to some volatility, given that we’re not quite two weeks into the regular-season schedule. The sample is small. But, as the saying goes: Just because you’re paranoid, it doesn’t mean they’re not out to get you. Some of these slacking teams have real reason to worry their disappointing starts have staying power.Feelin’ Blue JaysThe Jays not only own the ugly run differential, but they already have some serious injuries to overcome. Even before Opening Day, right-handers José Berríos, Shane Bieber and Trey Yesavage were absent from the starting rotation. Yesavage is working his way back with optimism, but the other two bring lingering doubts. The Jays also lost Cody Ponce to knee surgery because of a sprained ACL.Also: Catcher Alejandro Kirk broke his left thumb on a foul tip. Outfielder Addison Barger sprained his ankle. Great gosh almighty, it’s not even mid-April.No, Cubs, No Jun 24, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Chicago Cubs left fielder Seiya Suzuki (27) reacts as he runs the bases after hitting a three run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the third inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images The Cubs are set to receive good news Friday with the anticipated return of slugger Seiya Suzuki, who injured his knee on an awkward slide in the World Baseball Classic in March. Suzuki’s return should take some pressure off Pete Crow-Armstrong to break out of his early season slump (which actually goes back to August).The Cubs have some serious pitching woes. Three-fifths of the starting rotation is on the shelf, though left-hander Justin Steele has started to face live hitters in his return from elbow surgery. Less-happy news includes recent injuries to left-hander Matthew Boyd (biceps strain) and season-ending UCL surgery for right-hander Cade Horton.Tigers stuck in cageThe Tigers don’t have a lot of obvious reasons for concern, but their slump and collapse in 2025 wasn’t 100% logical either. This group can just get out of whack for a couple of weeks at a time. Overall, they haven’t played that badly so far, and come in with a -1 run differential. They’ve also only played three home games. The WBC business might have knocked Tarik Skubal off his ideal prep schedule.Something to keep in mind for the long haul: Injuries have picked away at the Tigers pitching depth, with Justin Verlander joining Reese Olson and Troy Melton on the injured list.Sawx need a good warshing Boston Red Sox pitcher Connelly Early (71) throws a pitch in the second inning of the MLB Interleague game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Boston Red Sox at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, March 29, 2026. The game was scoreless after three innings. The Red Sox always seem to be looking for ways to disappoint. They have not played poor defense so far, so they got that going for ’em. Other than that, it’s spotty. He surely will start to hit soon, but whatever is going on with Roman Anthony’s throwing arm bears watching. It looks like the top of the rotation is starting to take shape with Garrett Crochet and Sonny Gray stepping forward, but Ranger Suárez and Brayan Bello have been disastrous.They’re not scoring a lot of runs, they’re not hitting a lot of home runs (as many projected). Aroldis Chapman’s velocity is down (he is 38 years old, after all), and the bullpen depth looks shaky for either performance or injury reasons. The Red Sox looked like an oddly constructed team during Spring Training and now they have a disappointing record to reflect it.Don’t get rattled, SeattleThe Mariners have the worst record and the fewest actual concerns of any of these teams. Cal Raleigh, Josh Naylor and Julio Rodrígez are all slumping, but it won’t last. They’re 1-5 in one-run games, a stat that’s sure to improve. They’re sixth in starting pitcher ERA, which is the expected strength of the team anyway. They’re also playing better defense than they did in ’25. They’re about to rattle off 20 wins in 28 games, or something. #MLB #Playoff #Teams #Shocking #Slow #Starts #Deadspin.com

MLB Playoff Teams Off to Shocking Slow Starts in 2026 | Deadspin.com
Oct 16, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) hits a solo home run against the Seattle Mariners in the seventh inning during game four of the ALCS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

Welcome to the upside down, where four Major League Baseball teams that made the playoffs in 2025 find themselves in last place heading into action Friday.
The postseason underachievers include the Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers and Seattle Mariners in the American League, along with the Chicago Cubs in the National League. Also off to a sluggish start are the reigning AL champion Toronto Blue Jays, who aren’t in last place but do have a -22 run differential.
The division races are subject to some volatility, given that we’re not quite two weeks into the regular-season schedule. The sample is small. But, as the saying goes: Just because you’re paranoid, it doesn’t mean they’re not out to get you. Some of these slacking teams have real reason to worry their disappointing starts have staying power.
Feelin’ Blue Jays
The Jays not only own the ugly run differential, but they already have some serious injuries to overcome. Even before Opening Day, right-handers José Berríos, Shane Bieber and Trey Yesavage were absent from the starting rotation. Yesavage is working his way back with optimism, but the other two bring lingering doubts. The Jays also lost Cody Ponce to knee surgery because of a sprained ACL.
Also: Catcher Alejandro Kirk broke his left thumb on a foul tip. Outfielder Addison Barger sprained his ankle. Great gosh almighty, it’s not even mid-April.
No, Cubs, No

Jun 24, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Chicago Cubs left fielder Seiya Suzuki (27) reacts as he runs the bases after hitting a three run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the third inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

The Cubs are set to receive good news Friday with the anticipated return of slugger Seiya Suzuki, who injured his knee on an awkward slide in the World Baseball Classic in March. Suzuki’s return should take some pressure off Pete Crow-Armstrong to break out of his early season slump (which actually goes back to August).
The Cubs have some serious pitching woes. Three-fifths of the starting rotation is on the shelf, though left-hander Justin Steele has started to face live hitters in his return from elbow surgery. Less-happy news includes recent injuries to left-hander Matthew Boyd (biceps strain) and season-ending UCL surgery for right-hander Cade Horton.
Tigers stuck in cage
The Tigers don’t have a lot of obvious reasons for concern, but their slump and collapse in 2025 wasn’t 100% logical either. This group can just get out of whack for a couple of weeks at a time. Overall, they haven’t played that badly so far, and come in with a -1 run differential. They’ve also only played three home games. The WBC business might have knocked Tarik Skubal off his ideal prep schedule.
Something to keep in mind for the long haul: Injuries have picked away at the Tigers pitching depth, with Justin Verlander joining Reese Olson and Troy Melton on the injured list.
Sawx need a good warshing

Boston Red Sox pitcher Connelly Early (71) throws a pitch in the second inning of the MLB Interleague game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Boston Red Sox at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, March 29, 2026. The game was scoreless after three innings.

The Red Sox always seem to be looking for ways to disappoint. They have not played poor defense so far, so they got that going for ’em. Other than that, it’s spotty. He surely will start to hit soon, but whatever is going on with Roman Anthony’s throwing arm bears watching. It looks like the top of the rotation is starting to take shape with Garrett Crochet and Sonny Gray stepping forward, but Ranger Suárez and Brayan Bello have been disastrous.
They’re not scoring a lot of runs, they’re not hitting a lot of home runs (as many projected). Aroldis Chapman’s velocity is down (he is 38 years old, after all), and the bullpen depth looks shaky for either performance or injury reasons. The Red Sox looked like an oddly constructed team during Spring Training and now they have a disappointing record to reflect it.
Don’t get rattled, Seattle
The Mariners have the worst record and the fewest actual concerns of any of these teams.
Cal Raleigh, Josh Naylor and Julio Rodrígez are all slumping, but it won’t last. They’re 1-5 in one-run games, a stat that’s sure to improve. They’re sixth in starting pitcher ERA, which is the expected strength of the team anyway. They’re also playing better defense than they did in ’25. They’re about to rattle off 20 wins in 28 games, or something.

#MLB #Playoff #Teams #Shocking #Slow #Starts #Deadspin.com

Sports news April 11, 2026

Oct 16, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) hits a solo home run against the Seattle Mariners in the seventh inning during game four of the ALCS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

Welcome to the upside down, where four Major League Baseball teams that made the playoffs in 2025 find themselves in last place heading into action Friday.

The postseason underachievers include the Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers and Seattle Mariners in the American League, along with the Chicago Cubs in the National League. Also off to a sluggish start are the reigning AL champion Toronto Blue Jays, who aren’t in last place but do have a -22 run differential.

The division races are subject to some volatility, given that we’re not quite two weeks into the regular-season schedule. The sample is small. But, as the saying goes: Just because you’re paranoid, it doesn’t mean they’re not out to get you. Some of these slacking teams have real reason to worry their disappointing starts have staying power.

Feelin’ Blue Jays

The Jays not only own the ugly run differential, but they already have some serious injuries to overcome. Even before Opening Day, right-handers José Berríos, Shane Bieber and Trey Yesavage were absent from the starting rotation. Yesavage is working his way back with optimism, but the other two bring lingering doubts. The Jays also lost Cody Ponce to knee surgery because of a sprained ACL.

Also: Catcher Alejandro Kirk broke his left thumb on a foul tip. Outfielder Addison Barger sprained his ankle. Great gosh almighty, it’s not even mid-April.

No, Cubs, No

Jun 24, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Chicago Cubs left fielder Seiya Suzuki (27) reacts as he runs the bases after hitting a three run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the third inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

The Cubs are set to receive good news Friday with the anticipated return of slugger Seiya Suzuki, who injured his knee on an awkward slide in the World Baseball Classic in March. Suzuki’s return should take some pressure off Pete Crow-Armstrong to break out of his early season slump (which actually goes back to August).

The Cubs have some serious pitching woes. Three-fifths of the starting rotation is on the shelf, though left-hander Justin Steele has started to face live hitters in his return from elbow surgery. Less-happy news includes recent injuries to left-hander Matthew Boyd (biceps strain) and season-ending UCL surgery for right-hander Cade Horton.

Tigers stuck in cage

The Tigers don’t have a lot of obvious reasons for concern, but their slump and collapse in 2025 wasn’t 100% logical either. This group can just get out of whack for a couple of weeks at a time. Overall, they haven’t played that badly so far, and come in with a -1 run differential. They’ve also only played three home games. The WBC business might have knocked Tarik Skubal off his ideal prep schedule.

Something to keep in mind for the long haul: Injuries have picked away at the Tigers pitching depth, with Justin Verlander joining Reese Olson and Troy Melton on the injured list.

Sawx need a good warshing

Boston Red Sox pitcher Connelly Early (71) throws a pitch in the second inning of the MLB Interleague game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Boston Red Sox at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, March 29, 2026. The game was scoreless after three innings.

The Red Sox always seem to be looking for ways to disappoint. They have not played poor defense so far, so they got that going for ’em. Other than that, it’s spotty. He surely will start to hit soon, but whatever is going on with Roman Anthony’s throwing arm bears watching. It looks like the top of the rotation is starting to take shape with Garrett Crochet and Sonny Gray stepping forward, but Ranger Suárez and Brayan Bello have been disastrous.

They’re not scoring a lot of runs, they’re not hitting a lot of home runs (as many projected). Aroldis Chapman’s velocity is down (he is 38 years old, after all), and the bullpen depth looks shaky for either performance or injury reasons. The Red Sox looked like an oddly constructed team during Spring Training and now they have a disappointing record to reflect it.

Don’t get rattled, Seattle

The Mariners have the worst record and the fewest actual concerns of any of these teams.

Cal Raleigh, Josh Naylor and Julio Rodrígez are all slumping, but it won’t last. They’re 1-5 in one-run games, a stat that’s sure to improve. They’re sixth in starting pitcher ERA, which is the expected strength of the team anyway. They’re also playing better defense than they did in ’25. They’re about to rattle off 20 wins in 28 games, or something.

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#MLB #Playoff #Teams #Shocking #Slow #Starts #Deadspin.com

The Best Upper-Body Workout to Get Jacked

Zero Awareness, Zero Orders

Paul addressed James’ free agency on his Game Over Podcast with Max Kellerman, saying “outside of one organization, maybe two. I’ve heard from every team in the entire league.” What teams is James realistically considering? It’s all on this whiteboard:

It’s fascinating to see it all laid out like this. James’ first option is the Philadelphia 76ers, where he would fit in between Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, and Joel Embiid. His next option is the Miami Heat, where he would start alongside Davion Mitchell, Andrew Wiggins, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Bam Adebayo. The Cavs are there of course, too, which would put James in a lineup with Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. Finally, there’s the Denver Nuggets, with Jamal Murray, Cam Johnson, Aaron Gordon, and Nikola Jokic.

Here’s a clip of Paul talking about the 76ers, and saying “everything changed” after the Jaylen Brown trade:

The Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs, and New York Knicks are also on the board. On the Knicks, Paul said: “If the Knick hadn’t won, there would be no board. He’d be going to the Knicks.”

The Warriors still feel like the frontrunner to me. Golden State’s plan was put in motion when Draymond Green opted out of his player option, and remember, Green’s agent is also Paul. It feels like LeBron would love to play with Stephen Curry, but landing Davis could be the holdup. The Wizards suddenly have a lot of power after their buy-low trade for Davis at the deadline. Washington could leverage Golden State for a bunch of future assets, or watch their LeBron dreams fade away if he doesn’t think the team can actually contend without Davis.

LeBron has indicated that happiness — not money — will be the driving factor in his decision. It feels like that means a lot of teams have a realistic shot at him even if they don’t have cap space.

Where would LeBron have the best chance to win his fifth ring? The Warriors wouldn’t rate too highly by that metric in my opinion with such an old team. I’d probably say Minnesota or Philadelphia. Maybe the Celtics even after trading Jaylen Brown?

LeBron’s decision is coming soon. It’s going to be fascinating to watch whatever team he chooses.

#Rich #Paul #reveals #LeBron #James #free #agency #finalists #whiteboard #podcast">

Rich Paul reveals LeBron James’ free agency finalists on whiteboard during podcast The NBA is hanging on The Decision 4.0 to find out where LeBron James will play for the 2026-27 season. James might turn 42 years old in December, but he still feels like a top-50 player in the world, and there are a ton of contenders who could use his services. James is believed to be choosing between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors for next season, but we now know he’s considering even more teams after his agent Rich Paul leaked a whiteboard detailing his “realistic” options.Paul addressed James’ free agency on his Game Over Podcast with Max Kellerman, saying “outside of one organization, maybe two. I’ve heard from every team in the entire league.” What teams is James realistically considering? It’s all on this whiteboard:It’s fascinating to see it all laid out like this. James’ first option is the Philadelphia 76ers, where he would fit in between Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, and Joel Embiid. His next option is the Miami Heat, where he would start alongside Davion Mitchell, Andrew Wiggins, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Bam Adebayo. The Cavs are there of course, too, which would put James in a lineup with Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. Finally, there’s the Denver Nuggets, with Jamal Murray, Cam Johnson, Aaron Gordon, and Nikola Jokic.Here’s a clip of Paul talking about the 76ers, and saying “everything changed” after the Jaylen Brown trade:The Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs, and New York Knicks are also on the board. On the Knicks, Paul said: “If the Knick hadn’t won, there would be no board. He’d be going to the Knicks.”The Warriors still feel like the frontrunner to me. Golden State’s plan was put in motion when Draymond Green opted out of his player option, and remember, Green’s agent is also Paul. It feels like LeBron would love to play with Stephen Curry, but landing Davis could be the holdup. The Wizards suddenly have a lot of power after their buy-low trade for Davis at the deadline. Washington could leverage Golden State for a bunch of future assets, or watch their LeBron dreams fade away if he doesn’t think the team can actually contend without Davis.LeBron has indicated that happiness — not money — will be the driving factor in his decision. It feels like that means a lot of teams have a realistic shot at him even if they don’t have cap space.Where would LeBron have the best chance to win his fifth ring? The Warriors wouldn’t rate too highly by that metric in my opinion with such an old team. I’d probably say Minnesota or Philadelphia. Maybe the Celtics even after trading Jaylen Brown?LeBron’s decision is coming soon. It’s going to be fascinating to watch whatever team he chooses. #Rich #Paul #reveals #LeBron #James #free #agency #finalists #whiteboard #podcast

mwasimuddin125 0

The NBA is hanging on The Decision 4.0 to find out where LeBron James will play for the 2026-27 season. James might turn 42 years old in December, but he still feels like a top-50 player in the world, and there are a ton of contenders who could use his services. James is believed to be choosing between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors for next season, but we now know he’s considering even more teams after his agent Rich Paul leaked a whiteboard detailing his “realistic” options.

Here’s a clip of Paul talking about the 76ers, and saying “everything changed” after the Jaylen Brown trade:

LeBron’s decision is coming soon. It’s going to be fascinating to watch whatever team he chooses.

#Rich #Paul #reveals #LeBron #James #free #agency #finalists #whiteboard #podcast">Rich Paul reveals LeBron James’ free agency finalists on whiteboard during podcast

The NBA is hanging on The Decision 4.0 to find out where LeBron James will play for the 2026-27 season. James might turn 42 years old in December, but he still feels like a top-50 player in the world, and there are a ton of contenders who could use his services. James is believed to be choosing between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors for next season, but we now know he’s considering even more teams after his agent Rich Paul leaked a whiteboard detailing his “realistic” options.

Here’s a clip of Paul talking about the 76ers, and saying “everything changed” after the Jaylen Brown trade:

LeBron’s decision is coming soon. It’s going to be fascinating to watch whatever team he chooses.

#Rich #Paul #reveals #LeBron #James #free #agency #finalists #whiteboard #podcast

Former Formula One world champion Damon Hill praised Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli as a special talent and backed him for the F1 drivers’ title this year.

“I think the favourite is Kimi because I think that he’s got the equipment. Mercedes has been the most consistent, and he’s got a points advantage, and I think that he’s still on a learning curve. So George (Russell) has got a mountain to climb, I think, to rein him in. I’m not saying he can’t do it, but I think from what I’ve seen this guy is something else. So we’ll see,” said Damon Hill ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix.

Antonelli’s teammate Russell heads into his home race after winning the previous round in Austria last weekend, only his second of the year. Hill felt it should give the local lad a much-needed boost at a time when the crowd would have heightened expectations.

“George having got a win and closed the gap to Kimi, that’s going to be a positive for him and a massive relief because it was, as he said at one point, he didn’t know what to say. He was at a loss for words given the amount of bad luck he had, but he finally got a good victory; a genuine win, he got pole position and so forth. I think that’s going to restore some of his confidence,” the 1996 F1 champion added.

ALSO READ:Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin nightmare: How F1’s super project lost its way

When asked if Russell was a bit unsettled by Antonelli hogging all the attention when he won five races on the bounce, Hill remarked that it was something a driver has to deal with, even if he had been at a place for longer.

“When a driver is in a team, they can’t consider that they are the primary concern of that team. The problem with being a racing driver in our sport is that you’re not really part of the team. For the time you’re there, you’re part of the team, but you still have to prove yourself against the other guy. So you’re in a constant battle to establish your position,” remarked Hill.

(Fans can watch the British GP exclusively on FanCode)

Published on Jul 03, 2026

#Hes #World #Champion #Damon #Hill #backs #Antonelli #win #Drivers #title">

“He’s just something else”: Former World Champion Damon Hill backs Antonelli to win F1 Drivers’ title Former Formula One world champion Damon Hill praised Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli as a special talent and backed him for the F1 drivers’ title this year.“I think the favourite is Kimi because I think that he’s got the equipment. Mercedes has been the most consistent, and he’s got a points advantage, and I think that he’s still on a learning curve. So George (Russell) has got a mountain to climb, I think, to rein him in. I’m not saying he can’t do it, but I think from what I’ve seen this guy is something else. So we’ll see,” said Damon Hill ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix.Antonelli’s teammate Russell heads into his home race after winning the previous round in Austria last weekend, only his second of the year. Hill felt it should give the local lad a much-needed boost at a time when the crowd would have heightened expectations.“George having got a win and closed the gap to Kimi, that’s going to be a positive for him and a massive relief because it was, as he said at one point, he didn’t know what to say. He was at a loss for words given the amount of bad luck he had, but he finally got a good victory; a genuine win, he got pole position and so forth. I think that’s going to restore some of his confidence,” the 1996 F1 champion added.ALSO READ:Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin nightmare: How F1’s super project lost its wayWhen asked if Russell was a bit unsettled by Antonelli hogging all the attention when he won five races on the bounce, Hill remarked that it was something a driver has to deal with, even if he had been at a place for longer.“When a driver is in a team, they can’t consider that they are the primary concern of that team. The problem with being a racing driver in our sport is that you’re not really part of the team. For the time you’re there, you’re part of the team, but you still have to prove yourself against the other guy. So you’re in a constant battle to establish your position,” remarked Hill.(Fans can watch the British GP exclusively on FanCode)Published on Jul 03, 2026 #Hes #World #Champion #Damon #Hill #backs #Antonelli #win #Drivers #title

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Former Formula One world champion Damon Hill praised Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli as a special talent and backed him for the F1 drivers’ title this year.
“I think the favourite is Kimi because I think that he’s got the equipment. Mercedes has been the most consistent, and he’s got a points advantage, and I think that he’s still on a learning curve. So George (Russell) has got a mountain to climb, I think, to rein him in. I’m not saying he can’t do it, but I think from what I’ve seen this guy is something else. So we’ll see,” said Damon Hill ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix.
Antonelli’s teammate Russell heads into his home race after winning the previous round in Austria last weekend, only his second of the year. Hill felt it should give the local lad a much-needed boost at a time when the crowd would have heightened expectations.
“George having got a win and closed the gap to Kimi, that’s going to be a positive for him and a massive relief because it was, as he said at one point, he didn’t know what to say. He was at a loss for words given the amount of bad luck he had, but he finally got a good victory; a genuine win, he got pole position and so forth. I think that’s going to restore some of his confidence,” the 1996 F1 champion added.
ALSO READ:Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin nightmare: How F1’s super project lost its way
When asked if Russell was a bit unsettled by Antonelli hogging all the attention when he won five races on the bounce, Hill remarked that it was something a driver has to deal with, even if he had been at a place for longer.
“When a driver is in a team, they can’t consider that they are the primary concern of that team. The problem with being a racing driver in our sport is that you’re not really part of the team. For the time you’re there, you’re part of the team, but you still have to prove yourself against the other guy. So you’re in a constant battle to establish your position,” remarked Hill.
(Fans can watch the British GP exclusively on FanCode)
Published on Jul 03, 2026

#Hes #World #Champion #Damon #Hill #backs #Antonelli #win #Drivers #title">“He’s just something else”: Former World Champion Damon Hill backs Antonelli to win F1 Drivers’ title

Former Formula One world champion Damon Hill praised Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli as a special talent and backed him for the F1 drivers’ title this year.

ALSO READ:Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin nightmare: How F1’s super project lost its way

(Fans can watch the British GP exclusively on FanCode)

Published on Jul 03, 2026

#Hes #World #Champion #Damon #Hill #backs #Antonelli #win #Drivers #title

Deadspin | Nationals’ Foster Griffin aims to continue recent success vs. Pirates Jun 22, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin (22) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the seventh inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin no longer has the high-velocity stuff that made him a first-round selection in the 2014 draft. Instead, the 30-year-old left-hander is having a breakout season with a seven-pitch repertoire he will deploy when the Nationals open a three-game home series against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday. A self-described “journeyman, four-A player spending time between Triple-A and the big leagues,” Griffin (8-2, 2.93 ERA) has learned to throttle back his approach and set up hitters. “For me, I am not going for a strikeout from the start of the at-bat, I am letting it develop,” Griffin said. “If I get into an 0-2, 1-2 situation and I want to go for a kill count, and go for a swing and miss, I will. As soon as I get to even or behind, though, I am not really going for a punchout. I don’t want those free passes.” On Saturday against the Baltimore Orioles, Griffin threw 112 pitches, allowing one unearned run on three hits and two walks while matching his career high with nine strikeouts. He didn’t factor into the decision as Washington earned a 4-3, 10-inning victory. Griffin went 2-0 with a 1.15 ERA in five June starts. His only career start against the Pirates came on the road on April 16, a no-decision in which he gave up four runs on eight hits with one walk and seven strikeouts in 5 1/3 innings. Nationals manager Blake Butera has quickly developed belief in Griffin. “I appreciate every time he’s on the mound,” Butera said. “We all have a ton of confidence in Foster. He pitches his tail off for us and leaves it all out there every single time.” Washington had Thursday off after winning two of three games at Boston. The Nationals cruised to a 10-2 victory over the Red Sox on Wednesday behind James Wood’s 22nd home run, a three-run shot in the seventh. Andres Chaparro added a two-run bomb and Nasim Nunez hit a solo shot, the first homers of the season for both players. The Pirates are set to counter with right-hander Mitch Keller (6-5, 4.87 ERA). After going 0-3 with an 8.25 ERA in his previous five starts, Keller earned his lone win of June on Sunday, a 9-4 home decision against the Cincinnati Reds. He allowed five hits and four runs (three earned) with one walk and four strikeouts. Keller made his second straight six-inning start, and he feels things are pointed in the right direction. “I’m starting to feel like I am getting in a little more of a rhythm,” Keller said. “Obviously, there’s still a lot more that I can clean up and just execute a little better.” In eight career starts against Washington, Keller is 1-4 with a 5.31 ERA. He lost 5-4 to the Nationals on April 14 in Pittsburgh after yielding five runs on six hits and four walks with three strikeouts in four innings. The Pirates’ offense is trending in the right direction. Rookie right fielder Esmerlyn Valdez continues to establish his place in the batting order. Pittsburgh split a four-game road series against the Philadelphia Phillies this week, and Valdez was 2-for-4 with a run and three RBIs in a 6-1 win on Thursday. Valdez homered in four consecutive games — including the series opener against the Phillies on Monday after going deep in each game of Pittsburgh’s previous three-game set against the Reds — a stretch that has highlighted his impressive start in the majors. Since his big league debut on May 22, Valdez has a .316 batting average, six homers and 15 RBIs in 19 games. “The staff plays a big role,” Valdez said. “Even when you fail, they are right by your side. They bring the energy and give you the information you need to succeed.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Nationals #Foster #Griffin #aims #continue #success #Pirates

#Deadspin #Nationals #Foster #Griffin #aims #continue #success #Pirates">

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Jun 22, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin (22) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the seventh inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin no longer has the high-velocity stuff that made him a first-round selection in the 2014 draft.

Instead, the 30-year-old left-hander is having a breakout season with a seven-pitch repertoire he will deploy when the Nationals open a three-game home series against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday.

A self-described “journeyman, four-A player spending time between Triple-A and the big leagues,” Griffin (8-2, 2.93 ERA) has learned to throttle back his approach and set up hitters.

“For me, I am not going for a strikeout from the start of the at-bat, I am letting it develop,” Griffin said. “If I get into an 0-2, 1-2 situation and I want to go for a kill count, and go for a swing and miss, I will. As soon as I get to even or behind, though, I am not really going for a punchout. I don’t want those free passes.”

On Saturday against the Baltimore Orioles, Griffin threw 112 pitches, allowing one unearned run on three hits and two walks while matching his career high with nine strikeouts. He didn’t factor into the decision as Washington earned a 4-3, 10-inning victory.

Griffin went 2-0 with a 1.15 ERA in five June starts. His only career start against the Pirates came on the road on April 16, a no-decision in which he gave up four runs on eight hits with one walk and seven strikeouts in 5 1/3 innings.

Nationals manager Blake Butera has quickly developed belief in Griffin.

“I appreciate every time he’s on the mound,” Butera said. “We all have a ton of confidence in Foster. He pitches his tail off for us and leaves it all out there every single time.”

Washington had Thursday off after winning two of three games at Boston. The Nationals cruised to a 10-2 victory over the Red Sox on Wednesday behind James Wood’s 22nd home run, a three-run shot in the seventh. Andres Chaparro added a two-run bomb and Nasim Nunez hit a solo shot, the first homers of the season for both players.

The Pirates are set to counter with right-hander Mitch Keller (6-5, 4.87 ERA). After going 0-3 with an 8.25 ERA in his previous five starts, Keller earned his lone win of June on Sunday, a 9-4 home decision against the Cincinnati Reds. He allowed five hits and four runs (three earned) with one walk and four strikeouts.

Keller made his second straight six-inning start, and he feels things are pointed in the right direction.

“I’m starting to feel like I am getting in a little more of a rhythm,” Keller said. “Obviously, there’s still a lot more that I can clean up and just execute a little better.”

In eight career starts against Washington, Keller is 1-4 with a 5.31 ERA. He lost 5-4 to the Nationals on April 14 in Pittsburgh after yielding five runs on six hits and four walks with three strikeouts in four innings.

The Pirates’ offense is trending in the right direction. Rookie right fielder Esmerlyn Valdez continues to establish his place in the batting order.

Pittsburgh split a four-game road series against the Philadelphia Phillies this week, and Valdez was 2-for-4 with a run and three RBIs in a 6-1 win on Thursday.

Valdez homered in four consecutive games — including the series opener against the Phillies on Monday after going deep in each game of Pittsburgh’s previous three-game set against the Reds — a stretch that has highlighted his impressive start in the majors. Since his big league debut on May 22, Valdez has a .316 batting average, six homers and 15 RBIs in 19 games.

“The staff plays a big role,” Valdez said. “Even when you fail, they are right by your side. They bring the energy and give you the information you need to succeed.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Nationals #Foster #Griffin #aims #continue #success #Pirates">Deadspin | Nationals’ Foster Griffin aims to continue recent success vs. Pirates

Jun 22, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin (22) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the seventh inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin no longer has the high-velocity stuff that made him a first-round selection in the 2014 draft.

Instead, the 30-year-old left-hander is having a breakout season with a seven-pitch repertoire he will deploy when the Nationals open a three-game home series against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday.

A self-described “journeyman, four-A player spending time between Triple-A and the big leagues,” Griffin (8-2, 2.93 ERA) has learned to throttle back his approach and set up hitters.

“For me, I am not going for a strikeout from the start of the at-bat, I am letting it develop,” Griffin said. “If I get into an 0-2, 1-2 situation and I want to go for a kill count, and go for a swing and miss, I will. As soon as I get to even or behind, though, I am not really going for a punchout. I don’t want those free passes.”

On Saturday against the Baltimore Orioles, Griffin threw 112 pitches, allowing one unearned run on three hits and two walks while matching his career high with nine strikeouts. He didn’t factor into the decision as Washington earned a 4-3, 10-inning victory.

Griffin went 2-0 with a 1.15 ERA in five June starts. His only career start against the Pirates came on the road on April 16, a no-decision in which he gave up four runs on eight hits with one walk and seven strikeouts in 5 1/3 innings.

Nationals manager Blake Butera has quickly developed belief in Griffin.

“I appreciate every time he’s on the mound,” Butera said. “We all have a ton of confidence in Foster. He pitches his tail off for us and leaves it all out there every single time.”

Washington had Thursday off after winning two of three games at Boston. The Nationals cruised to a 10-2 victory over the Red Sox on Wednesday behind James Wood’s 22nd home run, a three-run shot in the seventh. Andres Chaparro added a two-run bomb and Nasim Nunez hit a solo shot, the first homers of the season for both players.

The Pirates are set to counter with right-hander Mitch Keller (6-5, 4.87 ERA). After going 0-3 with an 8.25 ERA in his previous five starts, Keller earned his lone win of June on Sunday, a 9-4 home decision against the Cincinnati Reds. He allowed five hits and four runs (three earned) with one walk and four strikeouts.

Keller made his second straight six-inning start, and he feels things are pointed in the right direction.

“I’m starting to feel like I am getting in a little more of a rhythm,” Keller said. “Obviously, there’s still a lot more that I can clean up and just execute a little better.”

In eight career starts against Washington, Keller is 1-4 with a 5.31 ERA. He lost 5-4 to the Nationals on April 14 in Pittsburgh after yielding five runs on six hits and four walks with three strikeouts in four innings.

The Pirates’ offense is trending in the right direction. Rookie right fielder Esmerlyn Valdez continues to establish his place in the batting order.

Pittsburgh split a four-game road series against the Philadelphia Phillies this week, and Valdez was 2-for-4 with a run and three RBIs in a 6-1 win on Thursday.

Valdez homered in four consecutive games — including the series opener against the Phillies on Monday after going deep in each game of Pittsburgh’s previous three-game set against the Reds — a stretch that has highlighted his impressive start in the majors. Since his big league debut on May 22, Valdez has a .316 batting average, six homers and 15 RBIs in 19 games.

“The staff plays a big role,” Valdez said. “Even when you fail, they are right by your side. They bring the energy and give you the information you need to succeed.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Nationals #Foster #Griffin #aims #continue #success #Pirates

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