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What Philip Rivers signing with the Colts means for his Hall of Fame candidacy

What Philip Rivers signing with the Colts means for his Hall of Fame candidacy

Sports news

After losing Daniel Jones for the season with an Achilles injury, the Indianapolis Colts are turning back the clock to shore up their quarterback room.

By signing a grandfather.

Philip Rivers, who has not played in the NFL since the 2020 season and is yes, a grandfather, is signing with the Colts after meeting with the team and working out for the coaching staff. This is a reunion of sorts on two levels. head coach Shane Steichen was a coach in the Chargers organization for years, and Rivers’ final NFL season came in Indianapolis with the Colts. Rivers and the Colts advanced to the playoffs that season, bowing out in a loss to the Buffalo Bills on Wild Card Weekend.

This makes for a fascinating story, and also presents an interesting wrinkle for Hall of Fame voters.

This is his first year of eligibility for inclusion in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and Rivers was recently named as one of 26 Modern-Era semifinalists for enshrinement in the Class of 2026. Rivers is one of three quarterbacks in the group, along with Drew Brees and Eli Manning. A five-year waiting period for eligibility remains in effect for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

At the moment, Rivers is simply signing with the Colts’ practice squad. According to a spokesperson from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, as long as he remains on the practice squad, he remains eligible to be a member of the Class of 2026.

However, if he is signed to the active roster and takes a snap, it would reset that five-year period, and the earliest he would be eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame is 2031, provided he does not play next year.

“If he’s signed to the practice squad, and that’s his status with the team (and thus still eligible for Hall) for an extended period to the point that we announce the final 15, and he then goes active, he’d come off, and we’d have 14,” the spokesman said to NBC Sports.

That reference to 14 highlights another point. The next step in the Hall of Fame voting process is narrowing the group of 26 players down to 15. That vote takes place later this month.

Then at the annual Hall of Fame Selection Meeting, held early next year, the Class of 2026 will be announced.

If Rivers is still on the practice squad for the vote in December, but is subsequently signed to the active roster, it could create a situation where he makes the list of 15 players to advance to the next stage of voting, but is removed after signing to the active roster.

There does seem to be some grey areas: What if he is elevated but does not take a snap? Is he still eligible?

This is probably a scenario the Hall of Fame did not consider when putting together the requirements for eligibility.

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Yastika Bhatia said it felt “unbelievable” to have gained a coveted place on the Lord’s honours boards after becoming the first woman to score a Test century at the ‘Home of Cricket’ on Sunday.

Yastika’s 113 was the cornerstone of India’s second-innings 341-7 declared on Sunday that left England needing a mammoth 427 to win the inaugural women’s Test at Lord’s.

At stumps on the third day, England had slumped to 130-6 with India well-placed to complete victory in a fixture being played 142 years – and 150 matches – on from the first men’s Test at the celebrated London ground.

Yastika’s innings, her maiden international century, was all the more creditable as it took place just six months after she endured surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament injury in her left knee.

RELATED | Yastika’s century brings India to the precipice of victory

And the 25-year-old also had the additional responsibility of keeping wicket at Lord’s amid soaring temperatures in London.

“I think it’s unbelievable,” Yastika told reporters after stumps.

“Six months ago, I was in a very different place. And if you would have told me then I would have my name on the honours board, I wouldn’t have believed it.”

‘Your time will come’

Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings.

As well as admiring the opener’s qualities as a batter, Yastika said Mandhana had also provided important guidance in her rehabilitation after also suffering an ACL injury.

“I had a conversation with her and she just looked at me and she said this is going to be the turning point in your career.

“We also met when I was in rehab and a little nervous But she said ‘you are a sincere kid, you are a good human — just keep doing the hard work and your time will come’.”

But Yastika stressed it had been a long road back to full fitness.

“I had to start from scratch,” she explained. “Each muscle you train, all the muscles around the knee you have to train.

“And then slowly, slowly progress will happen, not like in one or two days. So it’s very frustrating missing out on big tournaments and just doing rehab.”

Yastika, who thanked her family for their support, said it was wicket-keeping training that rekindled her love for cricket.

Yastika Bhatia says it is ‘unbelievable’ to be on Lord’s honours board Yastika Bhatia said it felt “unbelievable” to have gained a coveted place on the Lord’s honours boards after becoming the first woman to score a Test century at the ‘Home of Cricket’ on Sunday.Yastika’s 113 was the cornerstone of India’s second-innings 341-7 declared on Sunday that left England needing a mammoth 427 to win the inaugural women’s Test at Lord’s.At stumps on the third day, England had slumped to 130-6 with India well-placed to complete victory in a fixture being played 142 years – and 150 matches – on from the first men’s Test at the celebrated London ground.Yastika’s innings, her maiden international century, was all the more creditable as it took place just six months after she endured surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament injury in her left knee.RELATED | Yastika’s century brings India to the precipice of victoryAnd the 25-year-old also had the additional responsibility of keeping wicket at Lord’s amid soaring temperatures in London.“I think it’s unbelievable,” Yastika told reporters after stumps.“Six months ago, I was in a very different place. And if you would have told me then I would have my name on the honours board, I wouldn’t have believed it.”‘Your time will come’Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings.As well as admiring the opener’s qualities as a batter, Yastika said Mandhana had also provided important guidance in her rehabilitation after also suffering an ACL injury.“I had a conversation with her and she just looked at me and she said this is going to be the turning point in your career.“We also met when I was in rehab and a little nervous But she said ‘you are a sincere kid, you are a good human — just keep doing the hard work and your time will come’.”But Yastika stressed it had been a long road back to full fitness.“I had to start from scratch,” she explained. “Each muscle you train, all the muscles around the knee you have to train.“And then slowly, slowly progress will happen, not like in one or two days. So it’s very frustrating missing out on big tournaments and just doing rehab.”Yastika, who thanked her family for their support, said it was wicket-keeping training that rekindled her love for cricket. Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP “Just catches I did, not even batting, first I did keeping. So I was very happy. That day I was like a little kid smiling whole day that I did keeping after four months… And I felt the love of the game again after that.”Yastika had one moment of good fortune when to the first ball of Sunday’s play and still on her overnight 39 not out, a delivery from Lauren Bell brushed her off stump without dislodging the bails.But from then on she was in complete command, with Yastika 91 not out at lunch.There were no ‘nervous 90s’ for Yastika as she raced to her century in the first over after the interval, consecutive fours off Issy Wong taking her to 99 before a single off the fast bowler completed a century in 145 balls including 12 fours.“I thought that if I get some loose deliveries, I’ll try to make the most of it,” Yastika explained.“There was no rush from the dressing room, no extra pressure.“We also had wickets in hand. I always play best when I play for the team, so I was thinking that if we accelerate here, get some runs at good pace, it will be good.”Yastika eventually holed out to Sophie Ecclestone, with the England left-arm spinner also securing a place on the honours boards with a five-wicket haul.“She batted so well, and she really deserved that,” said Ecclestone of Yastika. “It’s pretty cool for her to be on the honours board.”Published on Jul 13, 2026 #Yastika #Bhatia #unbelievable #Lords #honours #board

Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP

lightbox-info

Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP

“Just catches I did, not even batting, first I did keeping. So I was very happy. That day I was like a little kid smiling whole day that I did keeping after four months… And I felt the love of the game again after that.”

Yastika had one moment of good fortune when to the first ball of Sunday’s play and still on her overnight 39 not out, a delivery from Lauren Bell brushed her off stump without dislodging the bails.

But from then on she was in complete command, with Yastika 91 not out at lunch.

There were no ‘nervous 90s’ for Yastika as she raced to her century in the first over after the interval, consecutive fours off Issy Wong taking her to 99 before a single off the fast bowler completed a century in 145 balls including 12 fours.

“I thought that if I get some loose deliveries, I’ll try to make the most of it,” Yastika explained.

“There was no rush from the dressing room, no extra pressure.

“We also had wickets in hand. I always play best when I play for the team, so I was thinking that if we accelerate here, get some runs at good pace, it will be good.”

Yastika eventually holed out to Sophie Ecclestone, with the England left-arm spinner also securing a place on the honours boards with a five-wicket haul.

“She batted so well, and she really deserved that,” said Ecclestone of Yastika. “It’s pretty cool for her to be on the honours board.”

Published on Jul 13, 2026

#Yastika #Bhatia #unbelievable #Lords #honours #board">Yastika Bhatia says it is ‘unbelievable’ to be on Lord’s honours board Yastika Bhatia said it felt “unbelievable” to have gained a coveted place on the Lord’s honours boards after becoming the first woman to score a Test century at the ‘Home of Cricket’ on Sunday.Yastika’s 113 was the cornerstone of India’s second-innings 341-7 declared on Sunday that left England needing a mammoth 427 to win the inaugural women’s Test at Lord’s.At stumps on the third day, England had slumped to 130-6 with India well-placed to complete victory in a fixture being played 142 years – and 150 matches – on from the first men’s Test at the celebrated London ground.Yastika’s innings, her maiden international century, was all the more creditable as it took place just six months after she endured surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament injury in her left knee.RELATED | Yastika’s century brings India to the precipice of victoryAnd the 25-year-old also had the additional responsibility of keeping wicket at Lord’s amid soaring temperatures in London.“I think it’s unbelievable,” Yastika told reporters after stumps.“Six months ago, I was in a very different place. And if you would have told me then I would have my name on the honours board, I wouldn’t have believed it.”‘Your time will come’Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings.As well as admiring the opener’s qualities as a batter, Yastika said Mandhana had also provided important guidance in her rehabilitation after also suffering an ACL injury.“I had a conversation with her and she just looked at me and she said this is going to be the turning point in your career.“We also met when I was in rehab and a little nervous But she said ‘you are a sincere kid, you are a good human — just keep doing the hard work and your time will come’.”But Yastika stressed it had been a long road back to full fitness.“I had to start from scratch,” she explained. “Each muscle you train, all the muscles around the knee you have to train.“And then slowly, slowly progress will happen, not like in one or two days. So it’s very frustrating missing out on big tournaments and just doing rehab.”Yastika, who thanked her family for their support, said it was wicket-keeping training that rekindled her love for cricket. Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP “Just catches I did, not even batting, first I did keeping. So I was very happy. That day I was like a little kid smiling whole day that I did keeping after four months… And I felt the love of the game again after that.”Yastika had one moment of good fortune when to the first ball of Sunday’s play and still on her overnight 39 not out, a delivery from Lauren Bell brushed her off stump without dislodging the bails.But from then on she was in complete command, with Yastika 91 not out at lunch.There were no ‘nervous 90s’ for Yastika as she raced to her century in the first over after the interval, consecutive fours off Issy Wong taking her to 99 before a single off the fast bowler completed a century in 145 balls including 12 fours.“I thought that if I get some loose deliveries, I’ll try to make the most of it,” Yastika explained.“There was no rush from the dressing room, no extra pressure.“We also had wickets in hand. I always play best when I play for the team, so I was thinking that if we accelerate here, get some runs at good pace, it will be good.”Yastika eventually holed out to Sophie Ecclestone, with the England left-arm spinner also securing a place on the honours boards with a five-wicket haul.“She batted so well, and she really deserved that,” said Ecclestone of Yastika. “It’s pretty cool for her to be on the honours board.”Published on Jul 13, 2026 #Yastika #Bhatia #unbelievable #Lords #honours #board

Yastika’s century brings India to the precipice of victory

And the 25-year-old also had the additional responsibility of keeping wicket at Lord’s amid soaring temperatures in London.

“I think it’s unbelievable,” Yastika told reporters after stumps.

“Six months ago, I was in a very different place. And if you would have told me then I would have my name on the honours board, I wouldn’t have believed it.”

‘Your time will come’

Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings.

As well as admiring the opener’s qualities as a batter, Yastika said Mandhana had also provided important guidance in her rehabilitation after also suffering an ACL injury.

“I had a conversation with her and she just looked at me and she said this is going to be the turning point in your career.

“We also met when I was in rehab and a little nervous But she said ‘you are a sincere kid, you are a good human — just keep doing the hard work and your time will come’.”

But Yastika stressed it had been a long road back to full fitness.

“I had to start from scratch,” she explained. “Each muscle you train, all the muscles around the knee you have to train.

“And then slowly, slowly progress will happen, not like in one or two days. So it’s very frustrating missing out on big tournaments and just doing rehab.”

Yastika, who thanked her family for their support, said it was wicket-keeping training that rekindled her love for cricket.

Yastika Bhatia says it is ‘unbelievable’ to be on Lord’s honours board Yastika Bhatia said it felt “unbelievable” to have gained a coveted place on the Lord’s honours boards after becoming the first woman to score a Test century at the ‘Home of Cricket’ on Sunday.Yastika’s 113 was the cornerstone of India’s second-innings 341-7 declared on Sunday that left England needing a mammoth 427 to win the inaugural women’s Test at Lord’s.At stumps on the third day, England had slumped to 130-6 with India well-placed to complete victory in a fixture being played 142 years – and 150 matches – on from the first men’s Test at the celebrated London ground.Yastika’s innings, her maiden international century, was all the more creditable as it took place just six months after she endured surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament injury in her left knee.RELATED | Yastika’s century brings India to the precipice of victoryAnd the 25-year-old also had the additional responsibility of keeping wicket at Lord’s amid soaring temperatures in London.“I think it’s unbelievable,” Yastika told reporters after stumps.“Six months ago, I was in a very different place. And if you would have told me then I would have my name on the honours board, I wouldn’t have believed it.”‘Your time will come’Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings.As well as admiring the opener’s qualities as a batter, Yastika said Mandhana had also provided important guidance in her rehabilitation after also suffering an ACL injury.“I had a conversation with her and she just looked at me and she said this is going to be the turning point in your career.“We also met when I was in rehab and a little nervous But she said ‘you are a sincere kid, you are a good human — just keep doing the hard work and your time will come’.”But Yastika stressed it had been a long road back to full fitness.“I had to start from scratch,” she explained. “Each muscle you train, all the muscles around the knee you have to train.“And then slowly, slowly progress will happen, not like in one or two days. So it’s very frustrating missing out on big tournaments and just doing rehab.”Yastika, who thanked her family for their support, said it was wicket-keeping training that rekindled her love for cricket. Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP “Just catches I did, not even batting, first I did keeping. So I was very happy. That day I was like a little kid smiling whole day that I did keeping after four months… And I felt the love of the game again after that.”Yastika had one moment of good fortune when to the first ball of Sunday’s play and still on her overnight 39 not out, a delivery from Lauren Bell brushed her off stump without dislodging the bails.But from then on she was in complete command, with Yastika 91 not out at lunch.There were no ‘nervous 90s’ for Yastika as she raced to her century in the first over after the interval, consecutive fours off Issy Wong taking her to 99 before a single off the fast bowler completed a century in 145 balls including 12 fours.“I thought that if I get some loose deliveries, I’ll try to make the most of it,” Yastika explained.“There was no rush from the dressing room, no extra pressure.“We also had wickets in hand. I always play best when I play for the team, so I was thinking that if we accelerate here, get some runs at good pace, it will be good.”Yastika eventually holed out to Sophie Ecclestone, with the England left-arm spinner also securing a place on the honours boards with a five-wicket haul.“She batted so well, and she really deserved that,” said Ecclestone of Yastika. “It’s pretty cool for her to be on the honours board.”Published on Jul 13, 2026 #Yastika #Bhatia #unbelievable #Lords #honours #board

Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP

lightbox-info

Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP

“Just catches I did, not even batting, first I did keeping. So I was very happy. That day I was like a little kid smiling whole day that I did keeping after four months… And I felt the love of the game again after that.”

Yastika had one moment of good fortune when to the first ball of Sunday’s play and still on her overnight 39 not out, a delivery from Lauren Bell brushed her off stump without dislodging the bails.

But from then on she was in complete command, with Yastika 91 not out at lunch.

There were no ‘nervous 90s’ for Yastika as she raced to her century in the first over after the interval, consecutive fours off Issy Wong taking her to 99 before a single off the fast bowler completed a century in 145 balls including 12 fours.

“I thought that if I get some loose deliveries, I’ll try to make the most of it,” Yastika explained.

“There was no rush from the dressing room, no extra pressure.

“We also had wickets in hand. I always play best when I play for the team, so I was thinking that if we accelerate here, get some runs at good pace, it will be good.”

Yastika eventually holed out to Sophie Ecclestone, with the England left-arm spinner also securing a place on the honours boards with a five-wicket haul.

“She batted so well, and she really deserved that,” said Ecclestone of Yastika. “It’s pretty cool for her to be on the honours board.”

Published on Jul 13, 2026

#Yastika #Bhatia #unbelievable #Lords #honours #board">Yastika Bhatia says it is ‘unbelievable’ to be on Lord’s honours board

Yastika Bhatia said it felt “unbelievable” to have gained a coveted place on the Lord’s honours boards after becoming the first woman to score a Test century at the ‘Home of Cricket’ on Sunday.

Yastika’s 113 was the cornerstone of India’s second-innings 341-7 declared on Sunday that left England needing a mammoth 427 to win the inaugural women’s Test at Lord’s.

At stumps on the third day, England had slumped to 130-6 with India well-placed to complete victory in a fixture being played 142 years – and 150 matches – on from the first men’s Test at the celebrated London ground.

Yastika’s innings, her maiden international century, was all the more creditable as it took place just six months after she endured surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament injury in her left knee.

RELATED | Yastika’s century brings India to the precipice of victory

And the 25-year-old also had the additional responsibility of keeping wicket at Lord’s amid soaring temperatures in London.

“I think it’s unbelievable,” Yastika told reporters after stumps.

“Six months ago, I was in a very different place. And if you would have told me then I would have my name on the honours board, I wouldn’t have believed it.”

‘Your time will come’

Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings.

As well as admiring the opener’s qualities as a batter, Yastika said Mandhana had also provided important guidance in her rehabilitation after also suffering an ACL injury.

“I had a conversation with her and she just looked at me and she said this is going to be the turning point in your career.

“We also met when I was in rehab and a little nervous But she said ‘you are a sincere kid, you are a good human — just keep doing the hard work and your time will come’.”

But Yastika stressed it had been a long road back to full fitness.

“I had to start from scratch,” she explained. “Each muscle you train, all the muscles around the knee you have to train.

“And then slowly, slowly progress will happen, not like in one or two days. So it’s very frustrating missing out on big tournaments and just doing rehab.”

Yastika, who thanked her family for their support, said it was wicket-keeping training that rekindled her love for cricket.

Yastika Bhatia says it is ‘unbelievable’ to be on Lord’s honours board Yastika Bhatia said it felt “unbelievable” to have gained a coveted place on the Lord’s honours boards after becoming the first woman to score a Test century at the ‘Home of Cricket’ on Sunday.Yastika’s 113 was the cornerstone of India’s second-innings 341-7 declared on Sunday that left England needing a mammoth 427 to win the inaugural women’s Test at Lord’s.At stumps on the third day, England had slumped to 130-6 with India well-placed to complete victory in a fixture being played 142 years – and 150 matches – on from the first men’s Test at the celebrated London ground.Yastika’s innings, her maiden international century, was all the more creditable as it took place just six months after she endured surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament injury in her left knee.RELATED | Yastika’s century brings India to the precipice of victoryAnd the 25-year-old also had the additional responsibility of keeping wicket at Lord’s amid soaring temperatures in London.“I think it’s unbelievable,” Yastika told reporters after stumps.“Six months ago, I was in a very different place. And if you would have told me then I would have my name on the honours board, I wouldn’t have believed it.”‘Your time will come’Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings.As well as admiring the opener’s qualities as a batter, Yastika said Mandhana had also provided important guidance in her rehabilitation after also suffering an ACL injury.“I had a conversation with her and she just looked at me and she said this is going to be the turning point in your career.“We also met when I was in rehab and a little nervous But she said ‘you are a sincere kid, you are a good human — just keep doing the hard work and your time will come’.”But Yastika stressed it had been a long road back to full fitness.“I had to start from scratch,” she explained. “Each muscle you train, all the muscles around the knee you have to train.“And then slowly, slowly progress will happen, not like in one or two days. So it’s very frustrating missing out on big tournaments and just doing rehab.”Yastika, who thanked her family for their support, said it was wicket-keeping training that rekindled her love for cricket. Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP “Just catches I did, not even batting, first I did keeping. So I was very happy. That day I was like a little kid smiling whole day that I did keeping after four months… And I felt the love of the game again after that.”Yastika had one moment of good fortune when to the first ball of Sunday’s play and still on her overnight 39 not out, a delivery from Lauren Bell brushed her off stump without dislodging the bails.But from then on she was in complete command, with Yastika 91 not out at lunch.There were no ‘nervous 90s’ for Yastika as she raced to her century in the first over after the interval, consecutive fours off Issy Wong taking her to 99 before a single off the fast bowler completed a century in 145 balls including 12 fours.“I thought that if I get some loose deliveries, I’ll try to make the most of it,” Yastika explained.“There was no rush from the dressing room, no extra pressure.“We also had wickets in hand. I always play best when I play for the team, so I was thinking that if we accelerate here, get some runs at good pace, it will be good.”Yastika eventually holed out to Sophie Ecclestone, with the England left-arm spinner also securing a place on the honours boards with a five-wicket haul.“She batted so well, and she really deserved that,” said Ecclestone of Yastika. “It’s pretty cool for her to be on the honours board.”Published on Jul 13, 2026 #Yastika #Bhatia #unbelievable #Lords #honours #board

Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP

lightbox-info

Yastika spent part of her innings batting alongside fellow left-hander Smriti Mandhana, who was dismissed for 70 after scoring 83 in India’s first innings. | Photo Credit: AFP

“Just catches I did, not even batting, first I did keeping. So I was very happy. That day I was like a little kid smiling whole day that I did keeping after four months… And I felt the love of the game again after that.”

Yastika had one moment of good fortune when to the first ball of Sunday’s play and still on her overnight 39 not out, a delivery from Lauren Bell brushed her off stump without dislodging the bails.

But from then on she was in complete command, with Yastika 91 not out at lunch.

There were no ‘nervous 90s’ for Yastika as she raced to her century in the first over after the interval, consecutive fours off Issy Wong taking her to 99 before a single off the fast bowler completed a century in 145 balls including 12 fours.

“I thought that if I get some loose deliveries, I’ll try to make the most of it,” Yastika explained.

“There was no rush from the dressing room, no extra pressure.

“We also had wickets in hand. I always play best when I play for the team, so I was thinking that if we accelerate here, get some runs at good pace, it will be good.”

Yastika eventually holed out to Sophie Ecclestone, with the England left-arm spinner also securing a place on the honours boards with a five-wicket haul.

“She batted so well, and she really deserved that,” said Ecclestone of Yastika. “It’s pretty cool for her to be on the honours board.”

Published on Jul 13, 2026

#Yastika #Bhatia #unbelievable #Lords #honours #board
Deadspin | Mariners beat Rays, avoid winless stay in Florida Jul 12, 2026; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Randy Arozarena (56) hits a three-run home run against the Tampa Bay Rays in the fourth inning at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images Weston Wilson and Randy Arozarena each went deep in Seattle’s four-run fourth inning Sunday afternoon, and the Mariners salvaged one win on their six-game Florida road trip by defeating the Tampa Bay Rays 8-2 in St. Petersburg, Fla. Having entered Sunday with 12 runs on the road swing, the Mariners tallied three times in the second before adding four more on the home runs to end their season-high-tying five-game losing streak. J.P. Crawford went 3-for-4 with two doubles, three RBIs, a run and a walk. Josh Naylor reached base three times on a single, a walk and a hit-by-pitch. Starter Emerson Hancock left in the second inning after suffering a hand injury in the first. He did not allow a hit over 1 2/3 scoreless innings with two strikeouts and a walk. Jose A. Ferrer (2-1) tossed 1 1/3 innings of one-hit ball while fanning two, including a key strikeout of All-Star slugger Junior Caminero. The American League East-leading Rays retired former third baseman Evan Longoria’s No. 3 in a pregame ceremony. They only managed four hits as they were 4-3 on the homestand. Jonathan Aranda homered to reach 64 RBIs, while Yandy Diaz was 2-for-4 with a run. Ian Seymour (6-2) surrendered six runs (five earned) on six hits in 3 1/3 frames with three punchouts and three walks. Owning an 0-5 record and 2-for-38 with runners in scoring position in Florida, the M’s crafted their best offensive frame of the series by sending three runs across early. Victor Robles’ sacrifice fly plated Naylor, and Crawford looped a two-run double down the left field line to score Mitch Garver and Cole Young. Hancock, who barehanded a hard comebacker by Diaz in the first, battled a finger issue and signaled to the staff in the bottom of the second. The right-hander then removed himself in place of Ferrer. With two outs in the third, Ferrer yielded Diaz’s single and hit Aranda before fanning Caminero, who got caught looking in a full count on a 101-mph sinker on the 10th offering of the at-bat. Wilson jumped on a 1-2 sweeper from Seymour in the fourth and sent it out to left for the right fielder’s second homer. Arozarena sliced a Cole Sulser sweeper to right-center for his 11th homer, a three-run blast, to push it to 7-0. Aranda slashed an opposite-field shot to left, his 14th, to spoil the shutout chance in the eighth, but Crawford doubled in a run the next frame. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Mariners #beat #Rays #avoid #winless #stay #FloridaJul 12, 2026; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Randy Arozarena (56) hits a three-run home run against the Tampa Bay Rays in the fourth inning at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Weston Wilson and Randy Arozarena each went deep in Seattle’s four-run fourth inning Sunday afternoon, and the Mariners salvaged one win on their six-game Florida road trip by defeating the Tampa Bay Rays 8-2 in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Having entered Sunday with 12 runs on the road swing, the Mariners tallied three times in the second before adding four more on the home runs to end their season-high-tying five-game losing streak.

J.P. Crawford went 3-for-4 with two doubles, three RBIs, a run and a walk. Josh Naylor reached base three times on a single, a walk and a hit-by-pitch.

Starter Emerson Hancock left in the second inning after suffering a hand injury in the first. He did not allow a hit over 1 2/3 scoreless innings with two strikeouts and a walk.

Jose A. Ferrer (2-1) tossed 1 1/3 innings of one-hit ball while fanning two, including a key strikeout of All-Star slugger Junior Caminero.

The American League East-leading Rays retired former third baseman Evan Longoria’s No. 3 in a pregame ceremony. They only managed four hits as they were 4-3 on the homestand.

Jonathan Aranda homered to reach 64 RBIs, while Yandy Diaz was 2-for-4 with a run.


Ian Seymour (6-2) surrendered six runs (five earned) on six hits in 3 1/3 frames with three punchouts and three walks.

Owning an 0-5 record and 2-for-38 with runners in scoring position in Florida, the M’s crafted their best offensive frame of the series by sending three runs across early.

Victor Robles’ sacrifice fly plated Naylor, and Crawford looped a two-run double down the left field line to score Mitch Garver and Cole Young.

Hancock, who barehanded a hard comebacker by Diaz in the first, battled a finger issue and signaled to the staff in the bottom of the second. The right-hander then removed himself in place of Ferrer.

With two outs in the third, Ferrer yielded Diaz’s single and hit Aranda before fanning Caminero, who got caught looking in a full count on a 101-mph sinker on the 10th offering of the at-bat.

Wilson jumped on a 1-2 sweeper from Seymour in the fourth and sent it out to left for the right fielder’s second homer. Arozarena sliced a Cole Sulser sweeper to right-center for his 11th homer, a three-run blast, to push it to 7-0.

Aranda slashed an opposite-field shot to left, his 14th, to spoil the shutout chance in the eighth, but Crawford doubled in a run the next frame.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Mariners #beat #Rays #avoid #winless #stay #Florida">Deadspin | Mariners beat Rays, avoid winless stay in Florida Jul 12, 2026; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Randy Arozarena (56) hits a three-run home run against the Tampa Bay Rays in the fourth inning at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images Weston Wilson and Randy Arozarena each went deep in Seattle’s four-run fourth inning Sunday afternoon, and the Mariners salvaged one win on their six-game Florida road trip by defeating the Tampa Bay Rays 8-2 in St. Petersburg, Fla. Having entered Sunday with 12 runs on the road swing, the Mariners tallied three times in the second before adding four more on the home runs to end their season-high-tying five-game losing streak. J.P. Crawford went 3-for-4 with two doubles, three RBIs, a run and a walk. Josh Naylor reached base three times on a single, a walk and a hit-by-pitch. Starter Emerson Hancock left in the second inning after suffering a hand injury in the first. He did not allow a hit over 1 2/3 scoreless innings with two strikeouts and a walk. Jose A. Ferrer (2-1) tossed 1 1/3 innings of one-hit ball while fanning two, including a key strikeout of All-Star slugger Junior Caminero. The American League East-leading Rays retired former third baseman Evan Longoria’s No. 3 in a pregame ceremony. They only managed four hits as they were 4-3 on the homestand. Jonathan Aranda homered to reach 64 RBIs, while Yandy Diaz was 2-for-4 with a run. Ian Seymour (6-2) surrendered six runs (five earned) on six hits in 3 1/3 frames with three punchouts and three walks. Owning an 0-5 record and 2-for-38 with runners in scoring position in Florida, the M’s crafted their best offensive frame of the series by sending three runs across early. Victor Robles’ sacrifice fly plated Naylor, and Crawford looped a two-run double down the left field line to score Mitch Garver and Cole Young. Hancock, who barehanded a hard comebacker by Diaz in the first, battled a finger issue and signaled to the staff in the bottom of the second. The right-hander then removed himself in place of Ferrer. With two outs in the third, Ferrer yielded Diaz’s single and hit Aranda before fanning Caminero, who got caught looking in a full count on a 101-mph sinker on the 10th offering of the at-bat. Wilson jumped on a 1-2 sweeper from Seymour in the fourth and sent it out to left for the right fielder’s second homer. Arozarena sliced a Cole Sulser sweeper to right-center for his 11th homer, a three-run blast, to push it to 7-0. Aranda slashed an opposite-field shot to left, his 14th, to spoil the shutout chance in the eighth, but Crawford doubled in a run the next frame. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Mariners #beat #Rays #avoid #winless #stay #Florida

Next week, the 2026 MLB All-Star Game gets underway at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.

But before this generation’s stars take the field, the next generation will take the stage in the City of Brotherly Love.

The 2026 MLB Draft gets underway on Saturday, and over 600 prospects will hear their names called during the 20 rounds that unfold, beginning with the Chicago White Sox at No. 1 overall. To get you ready, we have a mock draft to help set the stage.

For more on how the first round works, we have you covered here with this piece from Thursday. And a note on methodology: This is a “what I think will happen” mock draft, and not a “what I would do” mock draft. Mostly because I would draft Georgia catcher Daniel Jackson with every pick in that scenario. But there is still some “what I would do” sprinkled in …

Here are the picks, with some thoughts after.

Pick

Team

Player

Position

School

1Chicago White SoxRoch CholowskySSUCLA
2Tampa Bay RaysGrady EmersonSSFort Worth Christian HS (TX)
3Minnesota TwinsVahn LackeyCGeorgia Tech
4San Francisco GiantsDrew BurressOFGeorgia Tech
5Pittsburgh PiratesEric Booth Jr.OFOak Grove HS (MS)
6Kansas City RoyalsJackson FloraRHPUC Santa Barbara
7Baltimore OriolesJustin LebronSSAlabama
8AthleticsRyder HelfrickCArkansas
9Atlanta BravesJacob LombardSSGulliver Prep HS (FL)
10Colorado RockiesTyler BellSSKentucky
11Washington NationalsAce Reese3BMississippi State
12Los Angeles AngelsChristopher Hacopian2BTexas A&M
13St. Louis CardinalsDerek CurielOFLSU
14Miami MarlinsGio RojasLHPStoneman Douglas HS (FL)
15Arizona DiamondbacksTrevor CondonOFEtowah HS (GA)
16Texas RangersMason EdwardsLHPUSC
17Houston AstrosDaniel JacksonCGeorgia
18Cincinnati RedsAJ GraciaOFVirginia
19Cleveland GuardiansJared GrindlingerOF/LHPHuntington Beach HS (CA)
20Boston Red SoxCameron FlukeyRHPCoastal Carolina
21San Diego PadresZion RoseOFLouisville
22Detroit TigersHunter DietzLHPArkansas
23Chicago CubsLiam PetersonRHPFlorida
24Seattle MarinersTegan KuhnsRHPTennessee
25Milwaukee BrewersSawyer StrosniderOFTCU
26Atlanta BravesCarson BolemonLHPSouthside Christian HS (SC)
27New York MetsCole CarlonLHPArizona State
28Houston AstrosBrody BumilaLHPBishop Feehan HS (MA)
29San Francisco GiantsCameron BorthwickRHPSouth Walton HS (FL)
30Kansas City RoyalsAiden RuizSSThe Stony Brook School (NY)
31Arizona DiamondbacksLogan SchmidtLHPGanesha HS (CA)
32St. Louis CardinalsBo Lowrance3BChrist Church Episcopal HS (SC)
33Tampa Bay RaysAiden RobbinsOFTexas
34Pittsburgh PiratesCade TownsendRHPMississippi
35New York YankeesLogan ReddemannRHPUCLA
36Philadelphia PhilliesTaj MarchandSSJames Island HS (SC)
37Colorado RockiesJack RadelRHPNotre Dame

If you want to get a little deeper into this class, read on.

Let’s dive into the top ten selections a bit more.

1. Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA

It is by no means a done deal, but UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky remains the consensus top player in the class. And with the White Sox trying to sign him out of high school, the pairing between player and team fits. But there is a lot to like about Texas high school shortstop Grady Emerson, as well as Georgia Tech’s Vahn Lackey, who stand out as the top three players in the class. Chicago likely goes with Cholowsky, who might have the highest floor of the three, but Emerson might have the highest ceiling.

2. Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian HS (TX)

If Cholowsky indeed comes off the board first, Tampa Bay runs to the podium for Emerson. The high school shortstop has a silky smooth swing from the left side of the plate, is coming off another monster season where he slashed .532/.648/1.013, and was just the second high school player in the past 48 years to be named a semifinalist for the Golden Spikes Award, joining Bobby Witt Jr. on that short list.

3. Minnesota Twins: Vahn Lackey, C, Georgia Tech

The Minnesota Twins sit in a decent spot, as they would be happy to take Vahn Lackey, who slashed .397/.519/.722 as part of Georgia Tech’s monster offense this season.

4. San Francisco Giants: Drew Burress, OF, Georgia Tech

This might be the first departure from consensus, as a bit of “what I would do” works its way into this mock draft. But in addition to Lackey, outfielder Drew Burress was a huge part of the Georgia Tech offense this past season. He slashed .358/.473/.675, while belting 16 home runs to break Jason Varitek’s school record of 57 career home runs, as Burress hit 60 during his time in college. The San Francisco Giants have been linked to several bats in this class, but Burress’ power stands out.

5. Pittsburgh Pirates: Eric Booth Jr., OF, Oak Grove HS (MS)

Mississippi outfielder Eric Booth Jr. is something of a consensus pick for the Pirates, and Pittsburgh dipped into the Mississippi prep waters recently with some success with Konnor Griffin. Eric Booth Jr. is considered the top prep outfielder in the 2026 MLB Draft class, hit .467 as a junior in 2025, and followed that with a .481/.699/.922 slash line this past year:

6. Kansas City Royals: Jackson Flora, RHP, UC Santa Barbara

It’s time for the first pitcher to come off the board, and it is UC Santa Barbara right-hander Jackson Flora. Flora set a new school record with 133 strikeouts this season, as he finished with a 12-0 record, an ERA of 1.06, and a WHIP of just 0.853. Flora features high-level velocity — his fastball rests in the upper 90s and hits triple digits regularly — but he can mix in two different sliders, as well as two different changeups.

Here’s a look at that fastball:

And now let’s mix in some of that breaking stuff:

If Flora is off the board, high school arm Gio Rojas could be a pick for Kansas City here.

7. Baltimore Orioles: Justin Lebron, SS, Alabama

Here is another selection where the college influence creeps into my mind. Consensus is mixed on Alabama shortstop Justin Lebron, who could come off the board anywhere from No. 8 to the late teens.

So I concede I might be higher on him than consensus, but the tools are there and the shortstop was critical to Alabama’s run to Omaha this season. According to multiple reports the Orioles are looking at college bats with this pick, and Lebron makes a great deal of sense.

8. Athletics: Ryder Helfrick, C, Arkansas

As noted by other outlets, the Athletics are looking at college bats, and Ryder Helfrick sliding to this spot would offer a nice combination of positional value and power at the plate. Helfrick slashed .305/.420/.616 for the Razorbacks in 2025 along with 15 home runs, and followed that with a .283/.417/.562 slash line in 2026 along with 18 big flies.

Plus, there is a track record of success with the wood bat, as he slashed .261/.323/.837 for Brewster on the Cape during the summer of 2024, along with 11 home runs.

9. Atlanta Braves: Jacob Lombard, SS, Gulliver Prep HS (FL)

This might be a bit low for Jacob Lombard, who is coming off boards earlier than this in other industry mock drafts. But with the board falling like this, the Braves would be happy to see Lombard available. The Florida infielder carries some “swing-and-miss” risk, particularly against upper-level velocity, but he offers an intriguing mix of power at the plate and speed on the bases.

10. Colorado Rockies: Tyler Bell, SS, Kentucky

The Colorado Rockies are another team linked to college bats in the 2026 MLB Draft, and Kentucky infielder Tyler Bell certainly fits the bill. Bell slashed an impressive .343/.510/.608 for the Wildcats this past season, with nine home runs.

The switch-hitter also has power from both sides of the plate. Here is a home run against West Virginia in the College World Series Regionals:

And here is a blast from the right side of the plate against Tennessee earlier this season:

That will work at Coors Field someday.

#MLB #mock #draft #Updated #projection #White #Sox #choosing #elite #players">MLB mock draft 2026: Updated projection with White Sox choosing between 3 elite players Next week, the 2026 MLB All-Star Game gets underway at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.But before this generation’s stars take the field, the next generation will take the stage in the City of Brotherly Love.The 2026 MLB Draft gets underway on Saturday, and over 600 prospects will hear their names called during the 20 rounds that unfold, beginning with the Chicago White Sox at No. 1 overall. To get you ready, we have a mock draft to help set the stage.For more on how the first round works, we have you covered here with this piece from Thursday. And a note on methodology: This is a “what I think will happen” mock draft, and not a “what I would do” mock draft. Mostly because I would draft Georgia catcher Daniel Jackson with every pick in that scenario. But there is still some “what I would do” sprinkled in …Here are the picks, with some thoughts after.PickTeamPlayerPositionSchool1Chicago White SoxRoch CholowskySSUCLA2Tampa Bay RaysGrady EmersonSSFort Worth Christian HS (TX)3Minnesota TwinsVahn LackeyCGeorgia Tech4San Francisco GiantsDrew BurressOFGeorgia Tech5Pittsburgh PiratesEric Booth Jr.OFOak Grove HS (MS)6Kansas City RoyalsJackson FloraRHPUC Santa Barbara7Baltimore OriolesJustin LebronSSAlabama8AthleticsRyder HelfrickCArkansas9Atlanta BravesJacob LombardSSGulliver Prep HS (FL)10Colorado RockiesTyler BellSSKentucky11Washington NationalsAce Reese3BMississippi State12Los Angeles AngelsChristopher Hacopian2BTexas A&M13St. Louis CardinalsDerek CurielOFLSU14Miami MarlinsGio RojasLHPStoneman Douglas HS (FL)15Arizona DiamondbacksTrevor CondonOFEtowah HS (GA)16Texas RangersMason EdwardsLHPUSC17Houston AstrosDaniel JacksonCGeorgia18Cincinnati RedsAJ GraciaOFVirginia19Cleveland GuardiansJared GrindlingerOF/LHPHuntington Beach HS (CA)20Boston Red SoxCameron FlukeyRHPCoastal Carolina21San Diego PadresZion RoseOFLouisville22Detroit TigersHunter DietzLHPArkansas23Chicago CubsLiam PetersonRHPFlorida24Seattle MarinersTegan KuhnsRHPTennessee25Milwaukee BrewersSawyer StrosniderOFTCU26Atlanta BravesCarson BolemonLHPSouthside Christian HS (SC)27New York MetsCole CarlonLHPArizona State28Houston AstrosBrody BumilaLHPBishop Feehan HS (MA)29San Francisco GiantsCameron BorthwickRHPSouth Walton HS (FL)30Kansas City RoyalsAiden RuizSSThe Stony Brook School (NY)31Arizona DiamondbacksLogan SchmidtLHPGanesha HS (CA)32St. Louis CardinalsBo Lowrance3BChrist Church Episcopal HS (SC)33Tampa Bay RaysAiden RobbinsOFTexas34Pittsburgh PiratesCade TownsendRHPMississippi35New York YankeesLogan ReddemannRHPUCLA36Philadelphia PhilliesTaj MarchandSSJames Island HS (SC)37Colorado RockiesJack RadelRHPNotre DameIf you want to get a little deeper into this class, read on.Let’s dive into the top ten selections a bit more.1. Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLAIt is by no means a done deal, but UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky remains the consensus top player in the class. And with the White Sox trying to sign him out of high school, the pairing between player and team fits. But there is a lot to like about Texas high school shortstop Grady Emerson, as well as Georgia Tech’s Vahn Lackey, who stand out as the top three players in the class. Chicago likely goes with Cholowsky, who might have the highest floor of the three, but Emerson might have the highest ceiling.2. Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian HS (TX)If Cholowsky indeed comes off the board first, Tampa Bay runs to the podium for Emerson. The high school shortstop has a silky smooth swing from the left side of the plate, is coming off another monster season where he slashed .532/.648/1.013, and was just the second high school player in the past 48 years to be named a semifinalist for the Golden Spikes Award, joining Bobby Witt Jr. on that short list.3. Minnesota Twins: Vahn Lackey, C, Georgia TechThe Minnesota Twins sit in a decent spot, as they would be happy to take Vahn Lackey, who slashed .397/.519/.722 as part of Georgia Tech’s monster offense this season.4. San Francisco Giants: Drew Burress, OF, Georgia TechThis might be the first departure from consensus, as a bit of “what I would do” works its way into this mock draft. But in addition to Lackey, outfielder Drew Burress was a huge part of the Georgia Tech offense this past season. He slashed .358/.473/.675, while belting 16 home runs to break Jason Varitek’s school record of 57 career home runs, as Burress hit 60 during his time in college. The San Francisco Giants have been linked to several bats in this class, but Burress’ power stands out.5. Pittsburgh Pirates: Eric Booth Jr., OF, Oak Grove HS (MS)Mississippi outfielder Eric Booth Jr. is something of a consensus pick for the Pirates, and Pittsburgh dipped into the Mississippi prep waters recently with some success with Konnor Griffin. Eric Booth Jr. is considered the top prep outfielder in the 2026 MLB Draft class, hit .467 as a junior in 2025, and followed that with a .481/.699/.922 slash line this past year:6. Kansas City Royals: Jackson Flora, RHP, UC Santa BarbaraIt’s time for the first pitcher to come off the board, and it is UC Santa Barbara right-hander Jackson Flora. Flora set a new school record with 133 strikeouts this season, as he finished with a 12-0 record, an ERA of 1.06, and a WHIP of just 0.853. Flora features high-level velocity — his fastball rests in the upper 90s and hits triple digits regularly — but he can mix in two different sliders, as well as two different changeups.Here’s a look at that fastball:And now let’s mix in some of that breaking stuff:If Flora is off the board, high school arm Gio Rojas could be a pick for Kansas City here.7. Baltimore Orioles: Justin Lebron, SS, AlabamaHere is another selection where the college influence creeps into my mind. Consensus is mixed on Alabama shortstop Justin Lebron, who could come off the board anywhere from No. 8 to the late teens.So I concede I might be higher on him than consensus, but the tools are there and the shortstop was critical to Alabama’s run to Omaha this season. According to multiple reports the Orioles are looking at college bats with this pick, and Lebron makes a great deal of sense.8. Athletics: Ryder Helfrick, C, ArkansasAs noted by other outlets, the Athletics are looking at college bats, and Ryder Helfrick sliding to this spot would offer a nice combination of positional value and power at the plate. Helfrick slashed .305/.420/.616 for the Razorbacks in 2025 along with 15 home runs, and followed that with a .283/.417/.562 slash line in 2026 along with 18 big flies.Plus, there is a track record of success with the wood bat, as he slashed .261/.323/.837 for Brewster on the Cape during the summer of 2024, along with 11 home runs.9. Atlanta Braves: Jacob Lombard, SS, Gulliver Prep HS (FL)This might be a bit low for Jacob Lombard, who is coming off boards earlier than this in other industry mock drafts. But with the board falling like this, the Braves would be happy to see Lombard available. The Florida infielder carries some “swing-and-miss” risk, particularly against upper-level velocity, but he offers an intriguing mix of power at the plate and speed on the bases.10. Colorado Rockies: Tyler Bell, SS, KentuckyThe Colorado Rockies are another team linked to college bats in the 2026 MLB Draft, and Kentucky infielder Tyler Bell certainly fits the bill. Bell slashed an impressive .343/.510/.608 for the Wildcats this past season, with nine home runs.The switch-hitter also has power from both sides of the plate. Here is a home run against West Virginia in the College World Series Regionals:And here is a blast from the right side of the plate against Tennessee earlier this season:That will work at Coors Field someday. #MLB #mock #draft #Updated #projection #White #Sox #choosing #elite #players

2026 MLB Draft gets underway on Saturday, and over 600 prospects will hear their names called during the 20 rounds that unfold, beginning with the Chicago White Sox at No. 1 overall. To get you ready, we have a mock draft to help set the stage.

For more on how the first round works, we have you covered here with this piece from Thursday. And a note on methodology: This is a “what I think will happen” mock draft, and not a “what I would do” mock draft. Mostly because I would draft Georgia catcher Daniel Jackson with every pick in that scenario. But there is still some “what I would do” sprinkled in …

Here are the picks, with some thoughts after.

Pick

Team

Player

Position

School

1Chicago White SoxRoch CholowskySSUCLA
2Tampa Bay RaysGrady EmersonSSFort Worth Christian HS (TX)
3Minnesota TwinsVahn LackeyCGeorgia Tech
4San Francisco GiantsDrew BurressOFGeorgia Tech
5Pittsburgh PiratesEric Booth Jr.OFOak Grove HS (MS)
6Kansas City RoyalsJackson FloraRHPUC Santa Barbara
7Baltimore OriolesJustin LebronSSAlabama
8AthleticsRyder HelfrickCArkansas
9Atlanta BravesJacob LombardSSGulliver Prep HS (FL)
10Colorado RockiesTyler BellSSKentucky
11Washington NationalsAce Reese3BMississippi State
12Los Angeles AngelsChristopher Hacopian2BTexas A&M
13St. Louis CardinalsDerek CurielOFLSU
14Miami MarlinsGio RojasLHPStoneman Douglas HS (FL)
15Arizona DiamondbacksTrevor CondonOFEtowah HS (GA)
16Texas RangersMason EdwardsLHPUSC
17Houston AstrosDaniel JacksonCGeorgia
18Cincinnati RedsAJ GraciaOFVirginia
19Cleveland GuardiansJared GrindlingerOF/LHPHuntington Beach HS (CA)
20Boston Red SoxCameron FlukeyRHPCoastal Carolina
21San Diego PadresZion RoseOFLouisville
22Detroit TigersHunter DietzLHPArkansas
23Chicago CubsLiam PetersonRHPFlorida
24Seattle MarinersTegan KuhnsRHPTennessee
25Milwaukee BrewersSawyer StrosniderOFTCU
26Atlanta BravesCarson BolemonLHPSouthside Christian HS (SC)
27New York MetsCole CarlonLHPArizona State
28Houston AstrosBrody BumilaLHPBishop Feehan HS (MA)
29San Francisco GiantsCameron BorthwickRHPSouth Walton HS (FL)
30Kansas City RoyalsAiden RuizSSThe Stony Brook School (NY)
31Arizona DiamondbacksLogan SchmidtLHPGanesha HS (CA)
32St. Louis CardinalsBo Lowrance3BChrist Church Episcopal HS (SC)
33Tampa Bay RaysAiden RobbinsOFTexas
34Pittsburgh PiratesCade TownsendRHPMississippi
35New York YankeesLogan ReddemannRHPUCLA
36Philadelphia PhilliesTaj MarchandSSJames Island HS (SC)
37Colorado RockiesJack RadelRHPNotre Dame

If you want to get a little deeper into this class, read on.

Let’s dive into the top ten selections a bit more.

1. Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA

It is by no means a done deal, but UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky remains the consensus top player in the class. And with the White Sox trying to sign him out of high school, the pairing between player and team fits. But there is a lot to like about Texas high school shortstop Grady Emerson, as well as Georgia Tech’s Vahn Lackey, who stand out as the top three players in the class. Chicago likely goes with Cholowsky, who might have the highest floor of the three, but Emerson might have the highest ceiling.

2. Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian HS (TX)

If Cholowsky indeed comes off the board first, Tampa Bay runs to the podium for Emerson. The high school shortstop has a silky smooth swing from the left side of the plate, is coming off another monster season where he slashed .532/.648/1.013, and was just the second high school player in the past 48 years to be named a semifinalist for the Golden Spikes Award, joining Bobby Witt Jr. on that short list.

3. Minnesota Twins: Vahn Lackey, C, Georgia Tech

The Minnesota Twins sit in a decent spot, as they would be happy to take Vahn Lackey, who slashed .397/.519/.722 as part of Georgia Tech’s monster offense this season.

4. San Francisco Giants: Drew Burress, OF, Georgia Tech

This might be the first departure from consensus, as a bit of “what I would do” works its way into this mock draft. But in addition to Lackey, outfielder Drew Burress was a huge part of the Georgia Tech offense this past season. He slashed .358/.473/.675, while belting 16 home runs to break Jason Varitek’s school record of 57 career home runs, as Burress hit 60 during his time in college. The San Francisco Giants have been linked to several bats in this class, but Burress’ power stands out.

5. Pittsburgh Pirates: Eric Booth Jr., OF, Oak Grove HS (MS)

Mississippi outfielder Eric Booth Jr. is something of a consensus pick for the Pirates, and Pittsburgh dipped into the Mississippi prep waters recently with some success with Konnor Griffin. Eric Booth Jr. is considered the top prep outfielder in the 2026 MLB Draft class, hit .467 as a junior in 2025, and followed that with a .481/.699/.922 slash line this past year:

6. Kansas City Royals: Jackson Flora, RHP, UC Santa Barbara

It’s time for the first pitcher to come off the board, and it is UC Santa Barbara right-hander Jackson Flora. Flora set a new school record with 133 strikeouts this season, as he finished with a 12-0 record, an ERA of 1.06, and a WHIP of just 0.853. Flora features high-level velocity — his fastball rests in the upper 90s and hits triple digits regularly — but he can mix in two different sliders, as well as two different changeups.

Here’s a look at that fastball:

And now let’s mix in some of that breaking stuff:

If Flora is off the board, high school arm Gio Rojas could be a pick for Kansas City here.

7. Baltimore Orioles: Justin Lebron, SS, Alabama

Here is another selection where the college influence creeps into my mind. Consensus is mixed on Alabama shortstop Justin Lebron, who could come off the board anywhere from No. 8 to the late teens.

So I concede I might be higher on him than consensus, but the tools are there and the shortstop was critical to Alabama’s run to Omaha this season. According to multiple reports the Orioles are looking at college bats with this pick, and Lebron makes a great deal of sense.

8. Athletics: Ryder Helfrick, C, Arkansas

As noted by other outlets, the Athletics are looking at college bats, and Ryder Helfrick sliding to this spot would offer a nice combination of positional value and power at the plate. Helfrick slashed .305/.420/.616 for the Razorbacks in 2025 along with 15 home runs, and followed that with a .283/.417/.562 slash line in 2026 along with 18 big flies.

Plus, there is a track record of success with the wood bat, as he slashed .261/.323/.837 for Brewster on the Cape during the summer of 2024, along with 11 home runs.

9. Atlanta Braves: Jacob Lombard, SS, Gulliver Prep HS (FL)

This might be a bit low for Jacob Lombard, who is coming off boards earlier than this in other industry mock drafts. But with the board falling like this, the Braves would be happy to see Lombard available. The Florida infielder carries some “swing-and-miss” risk, particularly against upper-level velocity, but he offers an intriguing mix of power at the plate and speed on the bases.

10. Colorado Rockies: Tyler Bell, SS, Kentucky

The Colorado Rockies are another team linked to college bats in the 2026 MLB Draft, and Kentucky infielder Tyler Bell certainly fits the bill. Bell slashed an impressive .343/.510/.608 for the Wildcats this past season, with nine home runs.

The switch-hitter also has power from both sides of the plate. Here is a home run against West Virginia in the College World Series Regionals:

And here is a blast from the right side of the plate against Tennessee earlier this season:

That will work at Coors Field someday.

#MLB #mock #draft #Updated #projection #White #Sox #choosing #elite #players">MLB mock draft 2026: Updated projection with White Sox choosing between 3 elite players

Next week, the 2026 MLB All-Star Game gets underway at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.

But before this generation’s stars take the field, the next generation will take the stage in the City of Brotherly Love.

The 2026 MLB Draft gets underway on Saturday, and over 600 prospects will hear their names called during the 20 rounds that unfold, beginning with the Chicago White Sox at No. 1 overall. To get you ready, we have a mock draft to help set the stage.

For more on how the first round works, we have you covered here with this piece from Thursday. And a note on methodology: This is a “what I think will happen” mock draft, and not a “what I would do” mock draft. Mostly because I would draft Georgia catcher Daniel Jackson with every pick in that scenario. But there is still some “what I would do” sprinkled in …

Here are the picks, with some thoughts after.

Pick

Team

Player

Position

School

1Chicago White SoxRoch CholowskySSUCLA
2Tampa Bay RaysGrady EmersonSSFort Worth Christian HS (TX)
3Minnesota TwinsVahn LackeyCGeorgia Tech
4San Francisco GiantsDrew BurressOFGeorgia Tech
5Pittsburgh PiratesEric Booth Jr.OFOak Grove HS (MS)
6Kansas City RoyalsJackson FloraRHPUC Santa Barbara
7Baltimore OriolesJustin LebronSSAlabama
8AthleticsRyder HelfrickCArkansas
9Atlanta BravesJacob LombardSSGulliver Prep HS (FL)
10Colorado RockiesTyler BellSSKentucky
11Washington NationalsAce Reese3BMississippi State
12Los Angeles AngelsChristopher Hacopian2BTexas A&M
13St. Louis CardinalsDerek CurielOFLSU
14Miami MarlinsGio RojasLHPStoneman Douglas HS (FL)
15Arizona DiamondbacksTrevor CondonOFEtowah HS (GA)
16Texas RangersMason EdwardsLHPUSC
17Houston AstrosDaniel JacksonCGeorgia
18Cincinnati RedsAJ GraciaOFVirginia
19Cleveland GuardiansJared GrindlingerOF/LHPHuntington Beach HS (CA)
20Boston Red SoxCameron FlukeyRHPCoastal Carolina
21San Diego PadresZion RoseOFLouisville
22Detroit TigersHunter DietzLHPArkansas
23Chicago CubsLiam PetersonRHPFlorida
24Seattle MarinersTegan KuhnsRHPTennessee
25Milwaukee BrewersSawyer StrosniderOFTCU
26Atlanta BravesCarson BolemonLHPSouthside Christian HS (SC)
27New York MetsCole CarlonLHPArizona State
28Houston AstrosBrody BumilaLHPBishop Feehan HS (MA)
29San Francisco GiantsCameron BorthwickRHPSouth Walton HS (FL)
30Kansas City RoyalsAiden RuizSSThe Stony Brook School (NY)
31Arizona DiamondbacksLogan SchmidtLHPGanesha HS (CA)
32St. Louis CardinalsBo Lowrance3BChrist Church Episcopal HS (SC)
33Tampa Bay RaysAiden RobbinsOFTexas
34Pittsburgh PiratesCade TownsendRHPMississippi
35New York YankeesLogan ReddemannRHPUCLA
36Philadelphia PhilliesTaj MarchandSSJames Island HS (SC)
37Colorado RockiesJack RadelRHPNotre Dame

If you want to get a little deeper into this class, read on.

Let’s dive into the top ten selections a bit more.

1. Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA

It is by no means a done deal, but UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky remains the consensus top player in the class. And with the White Sox trying to sign him out of high school, the pairing between player and team fits. But there is a lot to like about Texas high school shortstop Grady Emerson, as well as Georgia Tech’s Vahn Lackey, who stand out as the top three players in the class. Chicago likely goes with Cholowsky, who might have the highest floor of the three, but Emerson might have the highest ceiling.

2. Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian HS (TX)

If Cholowsky indeed comes off the board first, Tampa Bay runs to the podium for Emerson. The high school shortstop has a silky smooth swing from the left side of the plate, is coming off another monster season where he slashed .532/.648/1.013, and was just the second high school player in the past 48 years to be named a semifinalist for the Golden Spikes Award, joining Bobby Witt Jr. on that short list.

3. Minnesota Twins: Vahn Lackey, C, Georgia Tech

The Minnesota Twins sit in a decent spot, as they would be happy to take Vahn Lackey, who slashed .397/.519/.722 as part of Georgia Tech’s monster offense this season.

4. San Francisco Giants: Drew Burress, OF, Georgia Tech

This might be the first departure from consensus, as a bit of “what I would do” works its way into this mock draft. But in addition to Lackey, outfielder Drew Burress was a huge part of the Georgia Tech offense this past season. He slashed .358/.473/.675, while belting 16 home runs to break Jason Varitek’s school record of 57 career home runs, as Burress hit 60 during his time in college. The San Francisco Giants have been linked to several bats in this class, but Burress’ power stands out.

5. Pittsburgh Pirates: Eric Booth Jr., OF, Oak Grove HS (MS)

Mississippi outfielder Eric Booth Jr. is something of a consensus pick for the Pirates, and Pittsburgh dipped into the Mississippi prep waters recently with some success with Konnor Griffin. Eric Booth Jr. is considered the top prep outfielder in the 2026 MLB Draft class, hit .467 as a junior in 2025, and followed that with a .481/.699/.922 slash line this past year:

6. Kansas City Royals: Jackson Flora, RHP, UC Santa Barbara

It’s time for the first pitcher to come off the board, and it is UC Santa Barbara right-hander Jackson Flora. Flora set a new school record with 133 strikeouts this season, as he finished with a 12-0 record, an ERA of 1.06, and a WHIP of just 0.853. Flora features high-level velocity — his fastball rests in the upper 90s and hits triple digits regularly — but he can mix in two different sliders, as well as two different changeups.

Here’s a look at that fastball:

And now let’s mix in some of that breaking stuff:

If Flora is off the board, high school arm Gio Rojas could be a pick for Kansas City here.

7. Baltimore Orioles: Justin Lebron, SS, Alabama

Here is another selection where the college influence creeps into my mind. Consensus is mixed on Alabama shortstop Justin Lebron, who could come off the board anywhere from No. 8 to the late teens.

So I concede I might be higher on him than consensus, but the tools are there and the shortstop was critical to Alabama’s run to Omaha this season. According to multiple reports the Orioles are looking at college bats with this pick, and Lebron makes a great deal of sense.

8. Athletics: Ryder Helfrick, C, Arkansas

As noted by other outlets, the Athletics are looking at college bats, and Ryder Helfrick sliding to this spot would offer a nice combination of positional value and power at the plate. Helfrick slashed .305/.420/.616 for the Razorbacks in 2025 along with 15 home runs, and followed that with a .283/.417/.562 slash line in 2026 along with 18 big flies.

Plus, there is a track record of success with the wood bat, as he slashed .261/.323/.837 for Brewster on the Cape during the summer of 2024, along with 11 home runs.

9. Atlanta Braves: Jacob Lombard, SS, Gulliver Prep HS (FL)

This might be a bit low for Jacob Lombard, who is coming off boards earlier than this in other industry mock drafts. But with the board falling like this, the Braves would be happy to see Lombard available. The Florida infielder carries some “swing-and-miss” risk, particularly against upper-level velocity, but he offers an intriguing mix of power at the plate and speed on the bases.

10. Colorado Rockies: Tyler Bell, SS, Kentucky

The Colorado Rockies are another team linked to college bats in the 2026 MLB Draft, and Kentucky infielder Tyler Bell certainly fits the bill. Bell slashed an impressive .343/.510/.608 for the Wildcats this past season, with nine home runs.

The switch-hitter also has power from both sides of the plate. Here is a home run against West Virginia in the College World Series Regionals:

And here is a blast from the right side of the plate against Tennessee earlier this season:

That will work at Coors Field someday.

#MLB #mock #draft #Updated #projection #White #Sox #choosing #elite #players

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