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Three NBA Playoff Teams Likely to Be Eliminated Early | Deadspin.com Mar 16, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) dribbles the ball as Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) defends during the first quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images Four first-round NBA playoff series begin Saturday while the rest kick off Sunday, including the first game of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s title defense.By the time next weekend rolls around, the field might already have some teams preparing to bow out.This doesn’t suggest that the three teams below each will be swept out of the postseason. It is guessing, though, that their counterparts will be longer for the bracket.LOS ANGELES LAKERSLakers coach JJ Redick advocates for mindfulness and meditation, two good things in this crazy world. Redick even has been seen engaging in those mental-health exercises before games.By month’s end, he’ll have to take the balancing act out of the arena. With Lakers starts Luka Doncic (hamstring strain) and Austin Reaves (oblique strain) out indefinitely, there’s little chance this series extends beyond five games.Yes, LA still boasts home-court advantage and LeBron James, who is three triple-doubles shy from passing Lakers icon Magic Johnson for most in NBA playoff history. But the Rockets are far closer to full strength, even with Kevin Durant questionable with a right knee contusion. Look for Houston big man Alperen Sengun to keep rolling. He shot 57.3% over the last 24 games and has a quickness advantage against Lakers counterpart DeAndre Ayton.PHILADELPHIA 76ers Mar 30, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. (9) reacts against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images The Sixers showed inconsistencies even during those rare cases when they were healthy this season, so a first-round date with the surging Boston Celtics didn’t figure to have staying power.Take Joel Embiid and his emergency appendectomy out of the Philly equation and that cinches it. This smacks of a Celtics runaway, even if Embiid manages to return to the lineup during the series, then magically remove the rust in real time against a team that has Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum.Boston commits the fewest turnovers in the league and is adept from long range and on the offensive glass. While it’s possible that Tyrese Maxey could go off and steer the Sixers into stealing a game – he averaged 30 points and 8.8 assists in four regular-season matchups with the C’s – Boston simply has too much talent.Philly gets a head start on getting healthy for another shot (how many does that team have left, anyway?) next season.TORONTO RAPTORS Nov 23, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) dribbles the ball against the Brooklyn Nets in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images Heaven knows that not every prediction lands. Who’d have imagined the Cavaliers would have be eliminated before the conference finals last season, for instance?While Cleveland carries a slightly different core and a less lofty regular-season pedigree than last spring, Donovan Mitchell, James Harden and the Cavs seem like a good bet to handle a Raptors team whose ballhandler, Immanuel Quickley, is dealing with hamstring issues.Mitchell carries plenty of firepower, to be sure, and has scored at least 30 points in eight straight series openers, a league record. Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram can keep the Raptors close, but they won’t be enough to overcome the Cavs’ depth. #NBA #Playoff #Teams #Eliminated #Early #Deadspin.com

Three NBA Playoff Teams Likely to Be Eliminated Early | Deadspin.com
Three NBA Playoff Teams Likely to Be Eliminated Early | Deadspin.com Mar 16, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) dribbles the ball as Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) defends during the first quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images Four first-round NBA playoff series begin Saturday while the rest kick off Sunday, including the first game of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s title defense.By the time next weekend rolls around, the field might already have some teams preparing to bow out.This doesn’t suggest that the three teams below each will be swept out of the postseason. It is guessing, though, that their counterparts will be longer for the bracket.LOS ANGELES LAKERSLakers coach JJ Redick advocates for mindfulness and meditation, two good things in this crazy world. Redick even has been seen engaging in those mental-health exercises before games.By month’s end, he’ll have to take the balancing act out of the arena. With Lakers starts Luka Doncic (hamstring strain) and Austin Reaves (oblique strain) out indefinitely, there’s little chance this series extends beyond five games.Yes, LA still boasts home-court advantage and LeBron James, who is three triple-doubles shy from passing Lakers icon Magic Johnson for most in NBA playoff history. But the Rockets are far closer to full strength, even with Kevin Durant questionable with a right knee contusion. Look for Houston big man Alperen Sengun to keep rolling. He shot 57.3% over the last 24 games and has a quickness advantage against Lakers counterpart DeAndre Ayton.PHILADELPHIA 76ers Mar 30, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. (9) reacts against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images The Sixers showed inconsistencies even during those rare cases when they were healthy this season, so a first-round date with the surging Boston Celtics didn’t figure to have staying power.Take Joel Embiid and his emergency appendectomy out of the Philly equation and that cinches it. This smacks of a Celtics runaway, even if Embiid manages to return to the lineup during the series, then magically remove the rust in real time against a team that has Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum.Boston commits the fewest turnovers in the league and is adept from long range and on the offensive glass. While it’s possible that Tyrese Maxey could go off and steer the Sixers into stealing a game – he averaged 30 points and 8.8 assists in four regular-season matchups with the C’s – Boston simply has too much talent.Philly gets a head start on getting healthy for another shot (how many does that team have left, anyway?) next season.TORONTO RAPTORS Nov 23, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) dribbles the ball against the Brooklyn Nets in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images Heaven knows that not every prediction lands. Who’d have imagined the Cavaliers would have be eliminated before the conference finals last season, for instance?While Cleveland carries a slightly different core and a less lofty regular-season pedigree than last spring, Donovan Mitchell, James Harden and the Cavs seem like a good bet to handle a Raptors team whose ballhandler, Immanuel Quickley, is dealing with hamstring issues.Mitchell carries plenty of firepower, to be sure, and has scored at least 30 points in eight straight series openers, a league record. Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram can keep the Raptors close, but they won’t be enough to overcome the Cavs’ depth. #NBA #Playoff #Teams #Eliminated #Early #Deadspin.comMar 16, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) dribbles the ball as Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) defends during the first quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Four first-round NBA playoff series begin Saturday while the rest kick off Sunday, including the first game of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s title defense.

By the time next weekend rolls around, the field might already have some teams preparing to bow out.

This doesn’t suggest that the three teams below each will be swept out of the postseason. It is guessing, though, that their counterparts will be longer for the bracket.

LOS ANGELES LAKERS

Lakers coach JJ Redick advocates for mindfulness and meditation, two good things in this crazy world. Redick even has been seen engaging in those mental-health exercises before games.

By month’s end, he’ll have to take the balancing act out of the arena. With Lakers starts Luka Doncic (hamstring strain) and Austin Reaves (oblique strain) out indefinitely, there’s little chance this series extends beyond five games.

Yes, LA still boasts home-court advantage and LeBron James, who is three triple-doubles shy from passing Lakers icon Magic Johnson for most in NBA playoff history. But the Rockets are far closer to full strength, even with Kevin Durant questionable with a right knee contusion. Look for Houston big man Alperen Sengun to keep rolling. He shot 57.3% over the last 24 games and has a quickness advantage against Lakers counterpart DeAndre Ayton.

PHILADELPHIA 76ers

Mar 30, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. (9) reacts against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn ImagesMar 30, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. (9) reacts against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Sixers showed inconsistencies even during those rare cases when they were healthy this season, so a first-round date with the surging Boston Celtics didn’t figure to have staying power.

Take Joel Embiid and his emergency appendectomy out of the Philly equation and that cinches it. This smacks of a Celtics runaway, even if Embiid manages to return to the lineup during the series, then magically remove the rust in real time against a team that has Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum.

Boston commits the fewest turnovers in the league and is adept from long range and on the offensive glass. While it’s possible that Tyrese Maxey could go off and steer the Sixers into stealing a game – he averaged 30 points and 8.8 assists in four regular-season matchups with the C’s – Boston simply has too much talent.

Philly gets a head start on getting healthy for another shot (how many does that team have left, anyway?) next season.

TORONTO RAPTORS

Nov 23, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) dribbles the ball against the Brooklyn Nets in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn ImagesNov 23, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) dribbles the ball against the Brooklyn Nets in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Heaven knows that not every prediction lands. Who’d have imagined the Cavaliers would have be eliminated before the conference finals last season, for instance?

While Cleveland carries a slightly different core and a less lofty regular-season pedigree than last spring, Donovan Mitchell, James Harden and the Cavs seem like a good bet to handle a Raptors team whose ballhandler, Immanuel Quickley, is dealing with hamstring issues.

Mitchell carries plenty of firepower, to be sure, and has scored at least 30 points in eight straight series openers, a league record. Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram can keep the Raptors close, but they won’t be enough to overcome the Cavs’ depth.

#NBA #Playoff #Teams #Eliminated #Early #Deadspin.com

Sports news

Mar 16, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) dribbles the ball as Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) defends during the first quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Four first-round NBA playoff series begin Saturday while the rest kick off Sunday, including the first game of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s title defense.

By the time next weekend rolls around, the field might already have some teams preparing to bow out.

This doesn’t suggest that the three teams below each will be swept out of the postseason. It is guessing, though, that their counterparts will be longer for the bracket.

LOS ANGELES LAKERS

Lakers coach JJ Redick advocates for mindfulness and meditation, two good things in this crazy world. Redick even has been seen engaging in those mental-health exercises before games.

By month’s end, he’ll have to take the balancing act out of the arena. With Lakers starts Luka Doncic (hamstring strain) and Austin Reaves (oblique strain) out indefinitely, there’s little chance this series extends beyond five games.

Yes, LA still boasts home-court advantage and LeBron James, who is three triple-doubles shy from passing Lakers icon Magic Johnson for most in NBA playoff history. But the Rockets are far closer to full strength, even with Kevin Durant questionable with a right knee contusion. Look for Houston big man Alperen Sengun to keep rolling. He shot 57.3% over the last 24 games and has a quickness advantage against Lakers counterpart DeAndre Ayton.

PHILADELPHIA 76ers

Mar 30, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. (9) reacts against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn ImagesMar 30, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. (9) reacts against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Sixers showed inconsistencies even during those rare cases when they were healthy this season, so a first-round date with the surging Boston Celtics didn’t figure to have staying power.

Take Joel Embiid and his emergency appendectomy out of the Philly equation and that cinches it. This smacks of a Celtics runaway, even if Embiid manages to return to the lineup during the series, then magically remove the rust in real time against a team that has Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum.

Boston commits the fewest turnovers in the league and is adept from long range and on the offensive glass. While it’s possible that Tyrese Maxey could go off and steer the Sixers into stealing a game – he averaged 30 points and 8.8 assists in four regular-season matchups with the C’s – Boston simply has too much talent.

Philly gets a head start on getting healthy for another shot (how many does that team have left, anyway?) next season.

TORONTO RAPTORS

Nov 23, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) dribbles the ball against the Brooklyn Nets in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn ImagesNov 23, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) dribbles the ball against the Brooklyn Nets in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Heaven knows that not every prediction lands. Who’d have imagined the Cavaliers would have be eliminated before the conference finals last season, for instance?

While Cleveland carries a slightly different core and a less lofty regular-season pedigree than last spring, Donovan Mitchell, James Harden and the Cavs seem like a good bet to handle a Raptors team whose ballhandler, Immanuel Quickley, is dealing with hamstring issues.

Mitchell carries plenty of firepower, to be sure, and has scored at least 30 points in eight straight series openers, a league record. Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram can keep the Raptors close, but they won’t be enough to overcome the Cavs’ depth.

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RCB vs DC IPL 2026: Stubbs, Miller help Delhi Capitals get over the line in last-over thriller <div id="content-body-70877902" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Delhi Capitals took the foot off the gas, left it dangerously late, and yet managed to defeat Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium here on Saturday.</p><p>The visitor made heavy work of what should have been a comfortable 176-run chase, losing momentum with uninspiring batting in the middle overs.</p><p>It boiled down to the final over, bowled by Romario Shepherd, with DC needing 15 runs. David Miller and Tristan Stubbs started with singles, leaving the boisterous home crowd in good spirits.</p><p>Miller then flipped the script in dramatic style, with clean sixes over deep midwicket and cover.</p><p>The South African, who only some days ago failed to take his team over the hump against Gujarat Titans in a similarly tight finish, turned hero this time around.</p><p>On a sticky pitch, RCB looked set to record a fifth win when fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar scalped three wickets inside the first three overs. Local lad K.L. Rahul put DC on track with a fighting 34-ball 57 under pressure.</p><p>RCB was back on top when Virat Kohli dove to his left at long-off to dismiss Rahul.</p><p>Stubbs and captain Axar Patel (26, 19b, 3×4) moved along slowly, allowing the required rate to rise.</p><p>Axar retired hurt with a leg injury, leaving his side with 42 runs needed in 25 balls. Miller seemed in no hurry, limping to six off six balls, before an explosive finish ended DC’s two match losing streak.</p><p><b>ALSO READ:</b><b><a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/cricket/ipl/kolkata-knight-riders-vs-rajasthan-royals-ipl-2026-kkr-v-rr-match-preview-team-news/article70877601.ece" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">IPL 2026: Struggling Kolkata Knight Riders looks for foothold against high-flying Rajasthan Royals</a></b></p><p>RCB took first strike under the bright afternoon sun, but barring Phil Salt (63, 38b, 4×4, 3×6), the batters failed to hit top gear.</p><p>Opener Salt kept the tempo high even as Virat Kohli (19) and Devdutt Padikkal (18) failed when trying to force the pace.</p><p>Patidar, who has been motoring along at a tremendous strike rate this season, could not provide the middle-order impetus. The skipper was smartly dragged wide by fast bowler Mukesh Kumar, leading to an edge.</p><p>The DC bowlers hit the right spots in the last seven overs, conceding only 43 runs.</p><p>Lungi Ngidi and T. Natarajan were mighty impressive in the death, choking the run flow with a mix of pinpoint yorkers and slow bouncers.</p><p>The late strangle kept RCB to a score that turned out to be less than adequate.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 18, 2026</p></div> #RCB #IPL #Stubbs #Miller #Delhi #Capitals #line #lastover #thriller

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Athletics Federation of India to step into track certification as 90% of synthetic tracks found substandard <div id="content-body-70877994" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Around 90 per cent of the synthetic tracks currently in use in the country are substandard in terms of material, laying and marking, Athletics Federation of India (AFI) spokesperson Adille Sumariwalla said on Saturday.</p><p>Sumariwalla said World Athletics has asked the AFI to get involved and address the issue, though he clarified that performances recorded on such tracks would not be annulled.</p><p>“I’m not going to name the tracks, but I can tell you that more than 90 per cent of tracks in India are substandard material-wise, laying-wise and marking-wise. We had a meeting with World Athletics in Tokyo last year during the World Championships, and they showed us some data, which was quite shocking,” Sumariwalla said during a virtual press conference.</p><p>“The material used is substandard, the process is substandard, the granules used are substandard and the laying methodology is substandard. The thickness is also substandard. In some cases, instead of polyurethane, only rubber or tyre rubber is being used.</p><p>“We have seen tracks where tyre rubber is used underneath and only red paint is applied on top. It’s that bad. Over time, such tracks will deteriorate and, within a few months, become unusable.”</p><p>He said the AFI, during its Annual General Meeting in Kohima on April 14 and 15, decided to step in and take a role in track certification.</p><p>“World Athletics was not happy with the quality being certified. So the AFI will now help in certifying and ensuring that all standards of measurement and quality are met,” said the former AFI president, who is now a vice-president of World Athletics.</p><p>“We are working out how we are going to go about it. Many operators are fly-by-night vendors, not proper suppliers. We need to assess the quality of vendors. We will likely come out with a list of genuine vendors worldwide whose materials can be used.</p><p><b>ALSO READ:<a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/athletics/sumit-antil-neeraj-chopra-accuse-naval-singh-harassment-abusive-language-news/article70875213.ece#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> Sumit Antil, Neeraj Chopra accuse senior coach of harassment and using abusive language</a></b></p><p>“We also conducted a course with foreign experts in India to help our officials understand how a track is to be measured and tested, and what needs to be done during the laying process.”</p><p>Sumariwalla said the AFI had not been involved in track certification earlier.</p><p>“We stayed away from this for a long time, because the way contracts were awarded was not something we wanted to get into. We have never certified any track earlier. However, we will now have to get involved because World Athletics has asked us to do so.”</p><p>When asked if the recently laid Mondo track at New Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium was under scrutiny, he said, “I don’t know. I’m not going to get into details on which track and where.”</p><p>He clarified that India already has World Athletics-certified tracks, which do not require re-certification.</p><p>“Substandard means the quality is not good. It may be too soft or too hard. That does not affect World Athletics recognition, but instead of lasting 10 years, the track may deteriorate in two years and need relaying.</p><p>“You will not get good performance if tyre rubber is used instead of polyurethane. The performance will be slower,” Sumariwalla said.</p><p>Earlier this month, the AFI had made it mandatory for track and field athletes to obtain prior approval before entering into sponsorship agreements, including with private entities.</p><p>However, Sumariwalla said the decision was put on hold during the AGM in Kohima.</p><p>“The AFI had a healthy discussion and we decided to have further consultation. We will keep this open for the next three months.</p><p>“We want to address all concerns through a broader consultation process.”</p><p>He added that the AFI does not derive any benefit from the sponsorship deals signed by athletes.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 18, 2026</p></div> #Athletics #Federation #India #step #track #certification #synthetic #tracks #substandard

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Deadspin | Ryan McMahon the unlikely hero as Yankees edge Royals Apr 4, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees third baseman Ryan McMahon (19) runs out a ground ball and is safe on a fielding error by the Miami Marlins during the third inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images Ryan McMahon hit a tiebreaking two-run homer with two outs in the eighth inning and the New York Yankees earned a 4-2 victory over the visiting Kansas City Royals on Friday night. After not starting the game, McMahon entered at third base for Amed Rosario. Ben Rice kept the inning going with a two-out single, and McMahon snapped a 2-2 tie by sending a 2-1 changeup from Alex Lange (0-1) into the left field seats. McMahon’s homer sent left fielder Starling Marte back, but the wind appeared to carry it over the fence. It was McMahon’s sixth hit in 43 at-bats this season — his first extra-base hit — and it occurred after manager Aaron Boone said the left-handed hitting McMahon was working on some things with his swing behind the scenes. The Yankees have won five games in their final at-bat this year, which are their five most recent victories. McMahon drew a walk on Monday when Jose Caballero scored on a wild pitch by Jordan Romano in an 11-10 win over the Los Angeles Angels. McMahon delivered his clutch homer after Camilo Doval (1-0) allowed a tying homer down the right field line by Vinnie Pasquantino. Doval quickly got the final out and David Bednar notched his sixth save. Rice hit a two-run homer in the fourth off Michael Wacha as the Yankees did enough with five hits to win for just the third time in their past 10 games. Before Doval faltered, New York’s Cam Schlittler allowed an unearned run on three hits in six-plus innings. The right-hander struck out six and walked two while throwing mostly four-seam fastballs, sinkers and cutters among his season-high 93 pitches. Schlittler pitched around a dropped fly ball by center fielder Trent Grisham in the sixth. With one out and Maikel Garcia on first, Bobby Witt Jr. hit a fly to the warning track in center field in front of the New York bullpen. As Grisham settled under it, the ball caromed off his glove for a two-base error and Garcia advanced to third. After allowing Pasquantino’s RBI grounder, Schlittler struck out Salvador Perez to end the sixth. The Royals lost for the fifth game in a row and the eighth time in 10 games. Nine of those games have been decided by two runs or fewer. Wacha allowed two runs on three hits in six innings. The right-hander struck out six and walked three. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Ryan #McMahon #hero #Yankees #edge #RoyalsApr 4, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees third baseman Ryan McMahon (19) runs out a ground ball and is safe on a fielding error by the Miami Marlins during the third inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Ryan McMahon hit a tiebreaking two-run homer with two outs in the eighth inning and the New York Yankees earned a 4-2 victory over the visiting Kansas City Royals on Friday night.

After not starting the game, McMahon entered at third base for Amed Rosario. Ben Rice kept the inning going with a two-out single, and McMahon snapped a 2-2 tie by sending a 2-1 changeup from Alex Lange (0-1) into the left field seats. McMahon’s homer sent left fielder Starling Marte back, but the wind appeared to carry it over the fence.

It was McMahon’s sixth hit in 43 at-bats this season — his first extra-base hit — and it occurred after manager Aaron Boone said the left-handed hitting McMahon was working on some things with his swing behind the scenes.

The Yankees have won five games in their final at-bat this year, which are their five most recent victories. McMahon drew a walk on Monday when Jose Caballero scored on a wild pitch by Jordan Romano in an 11-10 win over the Los Angeles Angels.

McMahon delivered his clutch homer after Camilo Doval (1-0) allowed a tying homer down the right field line by Vinnie Pasquantino. Doval quickly got the final out and David Bednar notched his sixth save.

Rice hit a two-run homer in the fourth off Michael Wacha as the Yankees did enough with five hits to win for just the third time in their past 10 games.


Before Doval faltered, New York’s Cam Schlittler allowed an unearned run on three hits in six-plus innings. The right-hander struck out six and walked two while throwing mostly four-seam fastballs, sinkers and cutters among his season-high 93 pitches.

Schlittler pitched around a dropped fly ball by center fielder Trent Grisham in the sixth.

With one out and Maikel Garcia on first, Bobby Witt Jr. hit a fly to the warning track in center field in front of the New York bullpen. As Grisham settled under it, the ball caromed off his glove for a two-base error and Garcia advanced to third.

After allowing Pasquantino’s RBI grounder, Schlittler struck out Salvador Perez to end the sixth.

The Royals lost for the fifth game in a row and the eighth time in 10 games. Nine of those games have been decided by two runs or fewer.

Wacha allowed two runs on three hits in six innings. The right-hander struck out six and walked three.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Ryan #McMahon #hero #Yankees #edge #Royals">Deadspin | Ryan McMahon the unlikely hero as Yankees edge Royals Apr 4, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees third baseman Ryan McMahon (19) runs out a ground ball and is safe on a fielding error by the Miami Marlins during the third inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images Ryan McMahon hit a tiebreaking two-run homer with two outs in the eighth inning and the New York Yankees earned a 4-2 victory over the visiting Kansas City Royals on Friday night. After not starting the game, McMahon entered at third base for Amed Rosario. Ben Rice kept the inning going with a two-out single, and McMahon snapped a 2-2 tie by sending a 2-1 changeup from Alex Lange (0-1) into the left field seats. McMahon’s homer sent left fielder Starling Marte back, but the wind appeared to carry it over the fence. It was McMahon’s sixth hit in 43 at-bats this season — his first extra-base hit — and it occurred after manager Aaron Boone said the left-handed hitting McMahon was working on some things with his swing behind the scenes. The Yankees have won five games in their final at-bat this year, which are their five most recent victories. McMahon drew a walk on Monday when Jose Caballero scored on a wild pitch by Jordan Romano in an 11-10 win over the Los Angeles Angels. McMahon delivered his clutch homer after Camilo Doval (1-0) allowed a tying homer down the right field line by Vinnie Pasquantino. Doval quickly got the final out and David Bednar notched his sixth save. Rice hit a two-run homer in the fourth off Michael Wacha as the Yankees did enough with five hits to win for just the third time in their past 10 games. Before Doval faltered, New York’s Cam Schlittler allowed an unearned run on three hits in six-plus innings. The right-hander struck out six and walked two while throwing mostly four-seam fastballs, sinkers and cutters among his season-high 93 pitches. Schlittler pitched around a dropped fly ball by center fielder Trent Grisham in the sixth. With one out and Maikel Garcia on first, Bobby Witt Jr. hit a fly to the warning track in center field in front of the New York bullpen. As Grisham settled under it, the ball caromed off his glove for a two-base error and Garcia advanced to third. After allowing Pasquantino’s RBI grounder, Schlittler struck out Salvador Perez to end the sixth. The Royals lost for the fifth game in a row and the eighth time in 10 games. Nine of those games have been decided by two runs or fewer. Wacha allowed two runs on three hits in six innings. The right-hander struck out six and walked three. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Ryan #McMahon #hero #Yankees #edge #Royals

Deadspin | White Sox ride offensive surge into rematch vs. A’s Apr 17, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Chicago White Sox third baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam against the Athleticsduring the seventh inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images The Chicago White Sox will look to build on an elite offensive performance when they face the Athletics on Saturday afternoon in the middle contest of a three-game set at West Sacramento, Calif. Chicago equaled its top scoring output of the campaign and racked up a season-high 15 hits during Friday’s 9-2 shellacking of the Athletics. Munetaka Murakami smacked his first major league grand slam as part of a 3-for-5 outing. The left-handed-hitting Murakami’s seventh-inning blast cleared the tall batter’s eye beyond the center-field wall. “I struck out the at-bat before, so I was trying to see the ball well and really get a good swing at it,” Murakami said through an interpreter. “And the result was the best I did.” The grand slam, off Elvis Alvarado, was Murakami’s sixth homer in his 20 games with the White Sox. The 26-year-old starred in Japan with five seasons of 30 or more homers before signing with the White Sox in the offseason. His wallop was the highlight of a standout offensive showing for Chicago, which has scored three or fewer runs 13 times this season. In fact, the White Sox had only 60 runs — second fewest in the majors — before Friday’s feast. Murakami raised his batting average to .200, with 13 RBIs. He struck out twice and has fanned 28 times in 65 at-bats. Andrew Benintendi was 3-for-6 with two runs and one RBI for Chicago, which won for just the third time in the past 11 games. “It was really nice,” White Sox manager Will Venable said. “Those guys have been putting together really good at-bats; just nothing to show for it. To be able to come out, continue that and get rewarded was really nice. It was up and down the lineup.” The Athletics had just four hits while losing their second straight game. Nick Kurtz had an RBI single when he won a 13-pitch battle with White Sox right-hander Davis Martin. “That was our best at-bat of the night,” Athletics manager Mark Kotsay said. “He fought off a lot of pitches. It’s an at-bat we’ve seen from Nick in the past, and we’re starting to see more of those at-bats. We did some early work (before the game) with Nick, and it looks like things are turning in the right direction.” The A’s committed just one error Friday, but Kotsay was concerned about the defense. “We have to play clean games, and (Friday’s game) wasn’t one of those,” he said. Athletics right-hander Luis Severino (0-2, 5.59 ERA) will take another swipe at ending his woes inside Sutter Health Park on Saturday. Severino lost to the Texas Rangers 8-1 on Monday when he gave up four runs and six hits over six innings. He served up two homers, walked three and struck out seven in his first 2026 home outing. The setback leaves him 2-10 with a 6.01 ERA in 16 starts in West Sacramento since joining the A’s prior to last season. Severino sharply criticized the ballpark last June. Severino is 2-3 with a 4.44 ERA in nine career appearances (eight starts) against the White Sox. Benintendi (13-for-38) is batting .342 with two homers, one triple, four doubles and 10 RBIs against Severino. The White Sox will turn to right-hander Erick Fedde (0-3, 3.38 ERA) on Saturday. He has allowed only 14 hits and three walks in 16 innings, but Chicago has just three total runs in his three outings. Fedde’s lone career appearance against the A’s was rough. He allowed six runs and nine hits in 2 2/3 innings during a 10-6 loss on Aug. 30, 2022, when he was a member of the Washington Nationals. Jeff McNeil is 7-for-18 against Fedde from when both players were in the National League. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #White #Sox #ride #offensive #surge #rematchApr 17, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Chicago White Sox third baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam against the Athleticsduring the seventh inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images

The Chicago White Sox will look to build on an elite offensive performance when they face the Athletics on Saturday afternoon in the middle contest of a three-game set at West Sacramento, Calif.

Chicago equaled its top scoring output of the campaign and racked up a season-high 15 hits during Friday’s 9-2 shellacking of the Athletics.

Munetaka Murakami smacked his first major league grand slam as part of a 3-for-5 outing. The left-handed-hitting Murakami’s seventh-inning blast cleared the tall batter’s eye beyond the center-field wall.

“I struck out the at-bat before, so I was trying to see the ball well and really get a good swing at it,” Murakami said through an interpreter. “And the result was the best I did.”

The grand slam, off Elvis Alvarado, was Murakami’s sixth homer in his 20 games with the White Sox. The 26-year-old starred in Japan with five seasons of 30 or more homers before signing with the White Sox in the offseason.

His wallop was the highlight of a standout offensive showing for Chicago, which has scored three or fewer runs 13 times this season. In fact, the White Sox had only 60 runs — second fewest in the majors — before Friday’s feast.

Murakami raised his batting average to .200, with 13 RBIs. He struck out twice and has fanned 28 times in 65 at-bats.

Andrew Benintendi was 3-for-6 with two runs and one RBI for Chicago, which won for just the third time in the past 11 games.

“It was really nice,” White Sox manager Will Venable said. “Those guys have been putting together really good at-bats; just nothing to show for it. To be able to come out, continue that and get rewarded was really nice. It was up and down the lineup.”


The Athletics had just four hits while losing their second straight game. Nick Kurtz had an RBI single when he won a 13-pitch battle with White Sox right-hander Davis Martin.

“That was our best at-bat of the night,” Athletics manager Mark Kotsay said. “He fought off a lot of pitches. It’s an at-bat we’ve seen from Nick in the past, and we’re starting to see more of those at-bats. We did some early work (before the game) with Nick, and it looks like things are turning in the right direction.”

The A’s committed just one error Friday, but Kotsay was concerned about the defense.

“We have to play clean games, and (Friday’s game) wasn’t one of those,” he said.

Athletics right-hander Luis Severino (0-2, 5.59 ERA) will take another swipe at ending his woes inside Sutter Health Park on Saturday.

Severino lost to the Texas Rangers 8-1 on Monday when he gave up four runs and six hits over six innings. He served up two homers, walked three and struck out seven in his first 2026 home outing. The setback leaves him 2-10 with a 6.01 ERA in 16 starts in West Sacramento since joining the A’s prior to last season. Severino sharply criticized the ballpark last June.

Severino is 2-3 with a 4.44 ERA in nine career appearances (eight starts) against the White Sox. Benintendi (13-for-38) is batting .342 with two homers, one triple, four doubles and 10 RBIs against Severino.

The White Sox will turn to right-hander Erick Fedde (0-3, 3.38 ERA) on Saturday. He has allowed only 14 hits and three walks in 16 innings, but Chicago has just three total runs in his three outings.

Fedde’s lone career appearance against the A’s was rough. He allowed six runs and nine hits in 2 2/3 innings during a 10-6 loss on Aug. 30, 2022, when he was a member of the Washington Nationals.

Jeff McNeil is 7-for-18 against Fedde from when both players were in the National League.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #White #Sox #ride #offensive #surge #rematch">Deadspin | White Sox ride offensive surge into rematch vs. A’s Apr 17, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Chicago White Sox third baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam against the Athleticsduring the seventh inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images The Chicago White Sox will look to build on an elite offensive performance when they face the Athletics on Saturday afternoon in the middle contest of a three-game set at West Sacramento, Calif. Chicago equaled its top scoring output of the campaign and racked up a season-high 15 hits during Friday’s 9-2 shellacking of the Athletics. Munetaka Murakami smacked his first major league grand slam as part of a 3-for-5 outing. The left-handed-hitting Murakami’s seventh-inning blast cleared the tall batter’s eye beyond the center-field wall. “I struck out the at-bat before, so I was trying to see the ball well and really get a good swing at it,” Murakami said through an interpreter. “And the result was the best I did.” The grand slam, off Elvis Alvarado, was Murakami’s sixth homer in his 20 games with the White Sox. The 26-year-old starred in Japan with five seasons of 30 or more homers before signing with the White Sox in the offseason. His wallop was the highlight of a standout offensive showing for Chicago, which has scored three or fewer runs 13 times this season. In fact, the White Sox had only 60 runs — second fewest in the majors — before Friday’s feast. Murakami raised his batting average to .200, with 13 RBIs. He struck out twice and has fanned 28 times in 65 at-bats. Andrew Benintendi was 3-for-6 with two runs and one RBI for Chicago, which won for just the third time in the past 11 games. “It was really nice,” White Sox manager Will Venable said. “Those guys have been putting together really good at-bats; just nothing to show for it. To be able to come out, continue that and get rewarded was really nice. It was up and down the lineup.” The Athletics had just four hits while losing their second straight game. Nick Kurtz had an RBI single when he won a 13-pitch battle with White Sox right-hander Davis Martin. “That was our best at-bat of the night,” Athletics manager Mark Kotsay said. “He fought off a lot of pitches. It’s an at-bat we’ve seen from Nick in the past, and we’re starting to see more of those at-bats. We did some early work (before the game) with Nick, and it looks like things are turning in the right direction.” The A’s committed just one error Friday, but Kotsay was concerned about the defense. “We have to play clean games, and (Friday’s game) wasn’t one of those,” he said. Athletics right-hander Luis Severino (0-2, 5.59 ERA) will take another swipe at ending his woes inside Sutter Health Park on Saturday. Severino lost to the Texas Rangers 8-1 on Monday when he gave up four runs and six hits over six innings. He served up two homers, walked three and struck out seven in his first 2026 home outing. The setback leaves him 2-10 with a 6.01 ERA in 16 starts in West Sacramento since joining the A’s prior to last season. Severino sharply criticized the ballpark last June. Severino is 2-3 with a 4.44 ERA in nine career appearances (eight starts) against the White Sox. Benintendi (13-for-38) is batting .342 with two homers, one triple, four doubles and 10 RBIs against Severino. The White Sox will turn to right-hander Erick Fedde (0-3, 3.38 ERA) on Saturday. He has allowed only 14 hits and three walks in 16 innings, but Chicago has just three total runs in his three outings. Fedde’s lone career appearance against the A’s was rough. He allowed six runs and nine hits in 2 2/3 innings during a 10-6 loss on Aug. 30, 2022, when he was a member of the Washington Nationals. Jeff McNeil is 7-for-18 against Fedde from when both players were in the National League. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #White #Sox #ride #offensive #surge #rematch

Deadspin | Against Red Sox, Tarik Skubal strives to squash Tigers’ road losing streak Apr 12, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) pitches in the first inning against the Miami Marlins at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images With two-time reigning American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal taking the mound, a pitchers’ duel could be on tap as the visiting Detroit Tigers look to even their four-game series against the Boston Red Sox on Saturday afternoon. Skubal (2-2, 2.22 ERA), a left-hander, will try to play the role of stopper as Detroit’s road skid reached nine games with a 1-0, 10-inning setback in Friday’s series opener. Before Friday though, the Tigers had been on a six-game winning streak, with home sweeps of the Miami Marlins and Kansas City Royals. Masataka Yoshida’s pinch-hit single scored Jarren Duran with the only run in a game Friday that featured just four hits for each team. For Detroit, Jahmai Jones had two. Skubal will make his first start at Fenway Park since 2023. Last Sunday, in an 8-2 win over the Marlins, he threw 6 2/3 innings of one-run ball with seven strikeouts but thought he could do better. He took a no-hitter into the sixth inning. “My stuff wasn’t good,” Skubal said. “But those things happen in baseball. It’s not always when you have your best stuff. If that was the case, it would be easy to predict our game. It’s just not like that.” Skubal carries a 2-2 record and 4.91 ERA against Boston into Saturday’s game, his sixth start vs. the Red Sox. Most recently, he allowed five runs on seven hits while striking out 11 in a May 14, 2025, no-decision in a game the Tigers won 6-5. Before Friday’s first pitch, Detroit placed infielder Zach McKinstry on the 10-day injured list with left hip/abdominal inflammation and recalled No. 6 prospect Hao-Yu Lee from Triple-A Toledo for his MLB debut. He went 0-for-3. “We’re excited for Lee to get his feet wet in the big leagues,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “We’ve had him in camp the last couple of seasons. … He can play good defense. He’s a good baseball player.” Beyond Jones, Kevin McGonigle had another hit, giving him 22 and a .306 average to lead all AL rookies. An eight-inning start from Ranger Suarez helped set the stage for Boston’s second consecutive win on Friday, but it took an extra frame and Yoshida’s first career walk-off knock to get the job done. Yoshida has just 29 at-bats this season, though he is on a six-game hitting streak. “In these situations, I know how he feels; you want to play,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora said. “We got him for a reason here (from Japan), and he’s been banged up, and now all of a sudden, this is how we’re going to play the game … with this roster and we’re going to maximize it, but it’s not easy.” The Friday shutout win was Boston’s third of the season and second in as many home games. Brayan Bello (1-1, 6.14 ERA) will look to throw his own gem on Saturday. The right-hander gave up a total of 10 runs (eight earned) in his first two starts before earning his first win with 6 2/3 innings of two-run ball last Sunday against the St. Louis Cardinals in a 9-3 game. “When I’m staying in the zone, this is the result that you get,” Bello said after the game. “When I’m executing all of my pitches, being aggressive in the zone, this is what happens.” Bello is 0-1 with a 5.74 ERA in three career starts against Detroit. He took a no-decision in a 10-9 Tigers win on May 13, 2025, after allowing three runs (two earned) in 4 2/3 innings. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Red #Sox #Tarik #Skubal #strives #squash #Tigers #road #losing #streakApr 12, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) pitches in the first inning against the Miami Marlins at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

With two-time reigning American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal taking the mound, a pitchers’ duel could be on tap as the visiting Detroit Tigers look to even their four-game series against the Boston Red Sox on Saturday afternoon.

Skubal (2-2, 2.22 ERA), a left-hander, will try to play the role of stopper as Detroit’s road skid reached nine games with a 1-0, 10-inning setback in Friday’s series opener. Before Friday though, the Tigers had been on a six-game winning streak, with home sweeps of the Miami Marlins and Kansas City Royals.

Masataka Yoshida’s pinch-hit single scored Jarren Duran with the only run in a game Friday that featured just four hits for each team. For Detroit, Jahmai Jones had two.

Skubal will make his first start at Fenway Park since 2023. Last Sunday, in an 8-2 win over the Marlins, he threw 6 2/3 innings of one-run ball with seven strikeouts but thought he could do better. He took a no-hitter into the sixth inning.

“My stuff wasn’t good,” Skubal said. “But those things happen in baseball. It’s not always when you have your best stuff. If that was the case, it would be easy to predict our game. It’s just not like that.”

Skubal carries a 2-2 record and 4.91 ERA against Boston into Saturday’s game, his sixth start vs. the Red Sox. Most recently, he allowed five runs on seven hits while striking out 11 in a May 14, 2025, no-decision in a game the Tigers won 6-5.

Before Friday’s first pitch, Detroit placed infielder Zach McKinstry on the 10-day injured list with left hip/abdominal inflammation and recalled No. 6 prospect Hao-Yu Lee from Triple-A Toledo for his MLB debut. He went 0-for-3.

“We’re excited for Lee to get his feet wet in the big leagues,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “We’ve had him in camp the last couple of seasons. … He can play good defense. He’s a good baseball player.”


Beyond Jones, Kevin McGonigle had another hit, giving him 22 and a .306 average to lead all AL rookies.

An eight-inning start from Ranger Suarez helped set the stage for Boston’s second consecutive win on Friday, but it took an extra frame and Yoshida’s first career walk-off knock to get the job done.

Yoshida has just 29 at-bats this season, though he is on a six-game hitting streak.

“In these situations, I know how he feels; you want to play,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora said. “We got him for a reason here (from Japan), and he’s been banged up, and now all of a sudden, this is how we’re going to play the game … with this roster and we’re going to maximize it, but it’s not easy.”

The Friday shutout win was Boston’s third of the season and second in as many home games.

Brayan Bello (1-1, 6.14 ERA) will look to throw his own gem on Saturday. The right-hander gave up a total of 10 runs (eight earned) in his first two starts before earning his first win with 6 2/3 innings of two-run ball last Sunday against the St. Louis Cardinals in a 9-3 game.

“When I’m staying in the zone, this is the result that you get,” Bello said after the game. “When I’m executing all of my pitches, being aggressive in the zone, this is what happens.”

Bello is 0-1 with a 5.74 ERA in three career starts against Detroit. He took a no-decision in a 10-9 Tigers win on May 13, 2025, after allowing three runs (two earned) in 4 2/3 innings.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Red #Sox #Tarik #Skubal #strives #squash #Tigers #road #losing #streak">Deadspin | Against Red Sox, Tarik Skubal strives to squash Tigers’ road losing streak Apr 12, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) pitches in the first inning against the Miami Marlins at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images With two-time reigning American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal taking the mound, a pitchers’ duel could be on tap as the visiting Detroit Tigers look to even their four-game series against the Boston Red Sox on Saturday afternoon. Skubal (2-2, 2.22 ERA), a left-hander, will try to play the role of stopper as Detroit’s road skid reached nine games with a 1-0, 10-inning setback in Friday’s series opener. Before Friday though, the Tigers had been on a six-game winning streak, with home sweeps of the Miami Marlins and Kansas City Royals. Masataka Yoshida’s pinch-hit single scored Jarren Duran with the only run in a game Friday that featured just four hits for each team. For Detroit, Jahmai Jones had two. Skubal will make his first start at Fenway Park since 2023. Last Sunday, in an 8-2 win over the Marlins, he threw 6 2/3 innings of one-run ball with seven strikeouts but thought he could do better. He took a no-hitter into the sixth inning. “My stuff wasn’t good,” Skubal said. “But those things happen in baseball. It’s not always when you have your best stuff. If that was the case, it would be easy to predict our game. It’s just not like that.” Skubal carries a 2-2 record and 4.91 ERA against Boston into Saturday’s game, his sixth start vs. the Red Sox. Most recently, he allowed five runs on seven hits while striking out 11 in a May 14, 2025, no-decision in a game the Tigers won 6-5. Before Friday’s first pitch, Detroit placed infielder Zach McKinstry on the 10-day injured list with left hip/abdominal inflammation and recalled No. 6 prospect Hao-Yu Lee from Triple-A Toledo for his MLB debut. He went 0-for-3. “We’re excited for Lee to get his feet wet in the big leagues,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “We’ve had him in camp the last couple of seasons. … He can play good defense. He’s a good baseball player.” Beyond Jones, Kevin McGonigle had another hit, giving him 22 and a .306 average to lead all AL rookies. An eight-inning start from Ranger Suarez helped set the stage for Boston’s second consecutive win on Friday, but it took an extra frame and Yoshida’s first career walk-off knock to get the job done. Yoshida has just 29 at-bats this season, though he is on a six-game hitting streak. “In these situations, I know how he feels; you want to play,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora said. “We got him for a reason here (from Japan), and he’s been banged up, and now all of a sudden, this is how we’re going to play the game … with this roster and we’re going to maximize it, but it’s not easy.” The Friday shutout win was Boston’s third of the season and second in as many home games. Brayan Bello (1-1, 6.14 ERA) will look to throw his own gem on Saturday. The right-hander gave up a total of 10 runs (eight earned) in his first two starts before earning his first win with 6 2/3 innings of two-run ball last Sunday against the St. Louis Cardinals in a 9-3 game. “When I’m staying in the zone, this is the result that you get,” Bello said after the game. “When I’m executing all of my pitches, being aggressive in the zone, this is what happens.” Bello is 0-1 with a 5.74 ERA in three career starts against Detroit. He took a no-decision in a 10-9 Tigers win on May 13, 2025, after allowing three runs (two earned) in 4 2/3 innings. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Red #Sox #Tarik #Skubal #strives #squash #Tigers #road #losing #streak

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