Category: Sports

Eight NFL franchises remain on the sidelines waiting to make their inaugural draft selections after Thursday night’s opening round was dominated by an unprecedented number of trades.

Only 16 of the 32 opening-round selections were actually made by the teams that originally possessed those draft positions.

San Francisco and Buffalo both traded away their first-round opportunities, joining Atlanta, Cincinnati, Green Bay, Denver, Jacksonville, and Indianapolis as teams without Day 1 picks.

The 49ers were positioned to begin the second round with the opening selection after executing two separate trades that moved them from the 27th spot to 30th, then finally to 33rd overall. Buffalo completed three different deals, shifting from pick 26 to 28, then to 31, and ultimately landing at 35th overall.

The other six franchises had previously dealt away their first-round positions in earlier transactions.

“It was really not a lot different with the exception the phones weren’t ringing, we weren’t having a lot of conversations with other teams,” said Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst regarding the quiet evening. “A lot more discussions about the players. … I think it was, it went like I thought it would go.”

Following Fernando Mendoza’s selection by Las Vegas as the first overall pick—a move anticipated for months—the evening’s surprises began to emerge.

New York selected edge rusher David Bailey despite having canceled his top 30 visit. Arizona created the first shock of the night by choosing running back Jeremiyah Love with the third overall selection.

The most surprising pick of the opening day came when Los Angeles selected quarterback Ty Simpson 13th overall. He’s expected to eventually replace 2025 NFL MVP Matthew Stafford.

Pittsburgh’s home crowd followed tradition by booing NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell during his stage entrance. However, many Steelers supporters found themselves frustrated and disappointed when Philadelphia made a strategic move to acquire wide receiver Makai Lemon.

The Eagles executed one of eight draft-night trades, exchanging picks with Dallas to advance from 23rd to 20th position to select Lemon while he was actively speaking with Pittsburgh’s management team.

“I guess it was meant to be. I’m super excited to be in Philly,” Lemon commented.

Following their missed opportunity with Lemon, Pittsburgh selected offensive tackle Max Iheanachor, marking their third first-round offensive line pick in four seasons.

Among the 17 prospects who attended the draft in person, only defensive tackle Kayden McDonald and cornerback Colton Hood remained unselected heading into Friday evening.

Multiple players projected as first-round talents were passed over, including safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, edge rusher Cashius Howell, cornerback Avieon Terrell, and wide receiver Denzel Boston.

The Ottawa Senators will be without defenseman Jake Sanderson for Saturday’s critical playoff matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes after he suffered a concussion from a controversial hit.

Head coach Travis Green provided an update on Sanderson’s condition Friday, stating that the player is “not doing well.” The announcement comes as Ottawa faces elimination, trailing Carolina 3-0 in their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series.

The 23-year-old defenseman was injured during the second period of Thursday’s 2-1 defeat when Carolina’s Taylor Hall delivered a high hit that knocked off Sanderson’s helmet. Officials assessed Hall a two-minute minor penalty for the contact.

Despite the impact, Sanderson managed to complete two additional shifts before leaving the contest.

Green expressed frustration with the officiating following Thursday’s game, questioning the penalty assessment. “I just don’t understand how there’s not a five-minute major called on the hit to the head,” Green said after the game. “It’s a blatant hit to the head, the kind of hits you don’t want to see.”

Sanderson has contributed two assists through the first three games of the playoff series. During the regular season, he posted career-high numbers with 54 points, including 14 goals and 40 assists, along with a plus-16 rating across 67 games.

The young defenseman is in his fourth season with Ottawa after being selected fifth overall in the 2020 NHL Draft.

Sports Illustrated reports that staff reductions at the PGA Tour have claimed the job of Todd Fleming, who served as tournament director for the Cognizant Classic of the Palm Beaches.

Fleming was among 56 PGA Tour employees who lost their positions during Thursday’s layoffs, according to the publication.

Despite the personnel change, the Cognizant Classic will proceed as scheduled in 2027 under temporary leadership. For the last three years, PGA Tour Events has managed the tournament’s operations, the same organization that oversees major competitions like the Players Championship and Tour Championship using PGA Tour staff members.

This operational structure differs from most PGA Tour events, which typically rely on local organizations working with regional charitable groups for management and ownership.

The tournament has a rich history dating back to 1972, when it debuted as the Jackie Gleason Inverrary Classic. Over the decades, it has undergone several name changes, including a stint as the Honda Classic before becoming the Cognizant.

PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens has served as the tournament’s venue since 2007. This year’s competition ran from February 26 through March 1, with Colombian golfer Nico Echavarria claiming victory and taking home more than $1.728 million in prize money.

The layoffs come as the PGA Tour announced additional schedule changes earlier this week, including the cancellation of its traditional January season-opening tournaments in Hawaii.

The Columbus Blue Jackets made significant coaching changes Friday, releasing assistant coaches Mike Haviland and Scott Ford along with video coach Aron Augustitus following another disappointing season that ended without a playoff berth.

The franchise terminated the contracts of all three staff members, even though they were signed through the 2025-26 season. Haviland and Ford had been with Columbus since before the 2024-25 season began, while Augustitus had served the organization since 2018.

The coaching shake-up comes after Columbus recorded a 40-30-12 record for 92 points, landing them in fifth place in the Metropolitan Division and extending their playoff drought to six years.

General Manager and President of Hockey Operations Don Waddell worked with Head Coach Rick Bowness to make these personnel decisions following their season-ending evaluations.

“Following our end of season meetings, Rick and I determined that changes to our coaching staff would be in the best interest of our club moving forward,” Waddell said. “We are very appreciative of the time and hard work that Mike, Scott and Aron have done during their time with the Blue Jackets and wish them well in their future endeavors. We will begin the process of reviewing candidates to join our staff in the very near future.”

The Blue Jackets showed improvement under Bowness, posting a 21-11-5 record after he assumed head coaching duties when the team dismissed Dean Evason and assistant Steve McCarthy on January 12.

Following last year’s dramatic slide of Shedeur Sanders from first-round prospect to late selection, Thursday’s NFL Draft opening night featured another quarterback surprise that has everyone talking.

Los Angeles made waves by choosing Alabama’s Ty Simpson with the 13th pick overall, selecting the compact and relatively unproven signal-caller to learn behind MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford.

Simpson’s unexpected selection topped the list of surprises during Thursday’s first round in Pittsburgh, creating additional value for teams entering Friday’s second round, where San Francisco holds the opening selection.

Les Snead, the Rams’ general manager, exercised just his second first-round choice in ten years by taking Simpson, a player most analysts didn’t project as first-round material.

The Alabama quarterback started for just one campaign with the Crimson Tide, throwing for 3,567 yards and guiding the team to a Rose Bowl appearance after spending three years in a backup role.

Additional players chosen earlier than projected included Blake Miller, an offensive lineman from Clemson taken by Detroit at pick 17, Houston’s selection of Georgia Tech guard Keylan Rutledge at 26, and Kansas City’s choice of Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods at 29.

Tennessee has two cornerbacks positioned as top second-round candidates: Colton Hood, who also spent time at Auburn and Colorado, and Jermod McCoy, who sat out the 2025 season due to an ACL injury.

Additional prospects likely to be selected early in Friday’s second round include:

McNeil-Warren brings tremendous energy as a defensive back, standing nearly 6-foot-4 and weighing 201 pounds. This lengthy safety specializes in delivering punishing hits, showing equal aggression against ball carriers and receivers. During his four-year Toledo career, he stripped the ball eight times.

Hill combines exceptional speed with his 6-foot-3, 238-pound frame, running the 40-yard dash in the low 4.4-second range. His quickness helps him navigate around blockers, while his elite directional changes and closing speed make him dangerous. Over three seasons in Austin, he recorded 17 sacks and forced eight fumbles.

Last season’s SEC Defensive Player of the Year registered 11.5 sacks and 14 tackles behind the line of scrimmage. Despite being smaller than typical pass rushers, he consistently reaches quarterbacks and completes tackles. His explosive burst allows him to penetrate offensive lines and create backfield chaos.

Terrell offers athleticism at cornerback despite his 5-foot-11, 180-pound build, showcasing excellent quickness and field awareness. He tackles willingly and excels as a blitzer, with his NFL future likely at nickel back where he thrives in short zone coverage.

Boston possesses strength, speed, and outstanding hands for catching passes. At 6-foot-4 and 212 pounds, he creates a large target whether lined up wide or in the slot. His physical strength and long stride help him shield defenders at every level downfield. He found the end zone 20 times across his final two collegiate seasons.

McDonald was anticipated to join teammates Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles as first-round Buckeyes defenders. He excels at stopping the run and plugging gaps in the middle of defensive lines. His 6-foot-3, 326-pound frame provides ideal size and power for his position.

Throughout NHL history, no Stanley Cup playoff game has ever concluded with a penalty shot goal in overtime, and Carolina’s Jordan Martinook had no desire to break that streak.

During Game 2 of their opening-round matchup with Ottawa, Martinook and his Hurricanes teammates believed they had secured victory when Mark Jankowski found the back of the net. However, a league review determined the play was offside, erasing the goal and resetting the game clock. On the following shift, Senators forward Warren Foegele hooked Martinook during a breakaway, resulting in a penalty shot award.

“I was trying to tell (the referee) we needed the power play, not the penalty shot,” Martinook explained. Linus Ullmark denied his attempt, but Martinook eventually netted the game-winner during double overtime.

Following Thursday evening’s contests, these playoffs have witnessed four penalty shots across 21 games — exceeding the combined total from the past three postseasons, which included none in 2025. Goaltenders have successfully defended against every attempt.

Just two additional penalty shots would match the all-time record for a single playoff run. While no clear explanation exists for officials choosing penalty shots over power plays more frequently, this trend has certainly provided exceptional entertainment during an already captivating first round.

“Everything’s very circumstantial,” Buffalo netminder Alex Lyon commented after stopping Boston’s Viktor Arvidsson during Thursday’s Game 3. Lyon remains uncertain whether he prefers the one-on-one challenge or enduring a two-minute penalty kill.

“To be honest with you, every player in this league has the ability to score on penalty shots,” Lyon stated. “So yeah, I guess it’s just more circumstantial, but I don’t really have a definitive answer one way or the other.”

Lyon successfully stopped Arvidsson, Ullmark denied Martinook, Philadelphia’s Owen Tippett shot wide against Pittsburgh’s Stuart Skinner, and Colorado’s Scott Wedgewood delivered such a spectacular save against Los Angeles’ Quinton Byfield that celebrating Denver fans actually shattered the glass behind the Kings’ bench.

“Never really seen the glass shatter behind the bench,” Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar remarked after repairs delayed the game for over 15 minutes. “That’s a different one. Stuff happens. Fans get excited. Our guys were excited.”

Could increased grabbing during play be occurring? More breakaway opportunities in a league emphasizing offensive production? Both scenarios seem plausible.

NHL rule 24.1 states that “a penalty shot is designed to restore a scoring opportunity which was lost as a result of an infraction being committed by the offending team, based on the parameters set out in these rules.” This language allows officials discretion in determining penalty shot situations when a player faces no impediment with clear access to the goal.

Nevertheless, four penalty shots before the first round concludes represents an anomaly. Only the 2019 playoffs (five) and 2008 playoffs (six) recorded more penalty shot attempts.

These moments carry game-altering potential while intensifying playoff pressure. Martinook compared his situation to being the heavy person on a seesaw, admitting he felt disappointed after missing his opportunity. The 33-year-old veteran redeemed himself with his subsequent goal to avoid becoming the scapegoat.

“It was going to be a long night if that penalty shot came back to bite me,” Martinook reflected. “Hockey’s crazy, sports are crazy and being able to score after that, I’ll tell my grandkids about that one, that’s for sure.”

University of Kansas first-year guard Darryn Peterson announced his intention to enter the NBA draft on Friday, a move that had been widely anticipated since he first stepped foot on campus. The talented scorer is expected to be chosen within the top three selections when the draft takes place in June.

Standing 6-foot-6, Peterson displayed moments of exceptional talent during his time with the Jayhawks, though his season was marked by significant challenges. Early in the year, he faced a serious full-body cramping condition that landed him in the hospital, and subsequent injuries and illness forced him to sit out 11 contests, preventing him from developing consistent chemistry with his fellow players.

Despite the missed time, Peterson managed to put up impressive numbers, posting 20.2 points and 4.2 rebounds per game while connecting on 38.2% of his three-point attempts across 24 appearances.

His performance peaked during postseason play, where he found his stride by dropping 24 points against TCU and contributing 14 against Houston in Big 12 Tournament action. Peterson then exploded for 28 points in Kansas’ opening-round NCAA tournament victory over Cal Baptist, followed by a 21-point effort in their heartbreaking second-round defeat to St. John’s.

“To my teammates, friends and everyone at the University of Kansas, a heartfelt thank you!” Peterson posted to social media Friday. “Your belief in me, your encouragement and your constant support have been invaluable every step of the way. This journey has been everything to me, and none of it would have been possible without your love, support and sacrifices.”

Draft experts are split between Peterson and BYU’s A.J. Dybantsa for the number one overall selection, with Duke’s Cameron Boozer also being mentioned as a potential top pick.

Basketball analysts have frequently compared Peterson to Phoenix Suns five-time All-Star Devin Booker, who stands 6-foot-5. Both players possess the versatility to score from anywhere on the court and have the athletic ability to play beyond their physical dimensions.

Peterson’s declaration followed Dybantsa’s announcement by just one day, with the BYU star making his draft intentions known in his hometown of Brockton, Massachusetts.

Dybantsa topped the nation in scoring with 25.5 points per game while also recording 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists. His statistical achievement makes him the first player since Larry Bird’s 1978-79 season at Indiana State to post those numbers and earn consensus All-American honors.

Tennessee freshman Nate Ament also entered the draft conversation on Thursday after appearing in all 35 games as a starter and averaging 16.7 points with 6.3 rebounds. His announcement came via Instagram, where he expressed gratitude to the Volunteers program.

“I promise to always represent the Vols with the upmost pride,” Ament wrote. “This University means more to me than just basketball — to me it’s a place I call home. I might’ve only been here a year but I’ll remember this year for the rest of my life.”

Arkansas guard Darius Acuff Jr. made his draft declaration on Wednesday, joining LSU legend Pete Maravich as the only SEC players to lead the conference in both scoring (23.5 points per game) and assists (6.4 per game) in a single season.

Both Ament and Acuff are considered strong candidates to be selected within the draft’s top 10 picks.

TORONTO – City officials in Toronto have backtracked on controversial admission charges for their upcoming World Cup fan festival following strong opposition from council members and residents who argued the fees violated earlier commitments.

The Toronto City Council voted 18-3 this week to approve a modified plan that eliminates entrance fees for most attendees. The decision comes after city staff initially proposed charging $10 for general admission to the festival, which will feature live game screenings, food vendors, and entertainment during the June 11-July 19 tournament.

The proposed charges sparked immediate criticism since city officials had previously marketed the event as a “free and inclusive space” for soccer fans to gather and watch matches together.

Following concerns raised by council members about making the event affordable for all residents, Mayor Olivia Chow directed city staff to reconsider the ticketing structure earlier this week.

Under the revised plan announced Wednesday, 15,600 of the 20,000 available daily general admission spots will be completely free. An additional 500 tickets will be set aside at no charge for community organizations. The city will still offer 3,900 premium tickets each day, priced between $100 and $300.

City staff had defended the original fee proposal as necessary for managing crowds and funding what they called an “enhanced fan experience.”

“Fan Fest should be free for general admission,” Chow stated to reporters before the council vote. “We can offer VIP packages for those who want them, but the gates should be open for everyone.”

Toronto is among 16 host cities across Canada, the United States, and Mexico that will welcome the expanded 48-team World Cup. The city is scheduled to host six tournament matches.

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — When Isaiah Hartenstein joined the Oklahoma City Thunder as a free agent two years ago, he never anticipated that a required museum tour would profoundly change his perspective.

Thunder General Manager Sam Presti mandates that all new team members visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, where 168 lives were lost during the April 19, 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The 7-foot center’s experience there led him to create a 14-minute film titled “The Oklahoma Standard.”

This phrase was created by journalists and emergency responders who witnessed how local residents rallied to support victims and rescue operations following the devastating attack. The community’s response to that tragedy established a mindset of collective strength that has helped Oklahoma City weather major tornado disasters in 1999, 2003, and 2013.

“We know when we put on the jersey what we’re playing for,” Hartenstein said. “I have a lot of respect for that.”

Since the Thunder relocated from Seattle in 2008, Presti has woven this community-first philosophy throughout the organization, from player selection to extensive charitable work. The team has cultivated one of the NBA’s most passionate fan bases, with the arena’s upper sections earning the nickname “Loud City.”

The Thunder’s success has united a sports community typically divided between University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State loyalties. Following last season’s championship victory over Indiana, thousands of fans packed the streets for a celebration parade.

“They work hard, they play hard,” longtime season ticket holder “Thunder Rob” Shahan said of the players. “As an Oklahoman, we’re not afraid to roll up our sleeves. We’re not afraid to help our neighbor when they need help. And that’s what the team embodies.”

The franchise and city have grown together since former Mayor Mick Cornett and businessman Clay Bennett brought professional basketball to Oklahoma City. The city will host canoe slalom and softball events during the 2028 Summer Olympics, and the Thunder will move into a new arena that same year.

Current Mayor David Holt explained the team’s significance beyond sports: “We’re rightfully proud of the way we responded to the bombing. But you can’t really build an identity on an act of terrorism, right? We were grateful that people helped us and we were thankful that people respected the way we responded, but we really ultimately needed a different word to follow Oklahoma City than bombing. And we found that word, and it’s the Thunder.”

The relationship between team and community extends far beyond basketball games. When the Moore tornado struck in 2013, both Kevin Durant and the Thunder Cares Foundation contributed $1 million each for disaster relief efforts. The Thunder Community Foundation has built or renovated 31 basketball courts across 17 Oklahoma counties.

Hartenstein demonstrated this community connection by premiering his documentary at Classen SAS Middle School’s renovated auditorium, with eighth-grade drama students serving as ushers for the April 11 screening downtown.

These efforts have earned recognition, including Russell Westbrook’s NBA Community Assist Award for the 2014-15 season and Hartenstein’s NBA Cares Award during the 2025 offseason.

Fan loyalty has remained strong through challenging periods, including Durant’s 2016 departure to join Golden State and the team’s rebuilding phase after the 2020-2021 season. While Oklahoma has supported minor league teams in baseball and hockey for years, none have matched the Thunder’s impact.

“The very existence of the team has elevated us into a new tier of American city,” Holt said. “And because the reality is in American life, unless you have a team in the NBA, the NFL or the MLB, you don’t really get treated like a real city by lots of things that have nothing to do with sports. It just opens a lot of doors because it just sort of bestows this credibility on you.”

Local entrepreneur Juan Guerra credits the Thunder with enabling his business success. The 36-year-old Oklahoma City native operates Kicklahoma, a sneaker and clothing convention plus retail store, which he launched in 2014 during Durant’s MVP season.

“Kicklahoma doesn’t exist without the Thunder, in my narrative,” Guerra said. “Or maybe not even the Thunder but even breaking down to, without Kevin Durant having that signature line.”

The city’s basketball enthusiasm began when the New Orleans Hornets temporarily relocated following Hurricane Katrina. Fans embraced Chris Paul, who earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2006, proving Oklahoma City could support NBA basketball.

Durant became the franchise’s first superstar, capturing four scoring championships and leading the team to the 2012 NBA Finals. Other notable players have included James Harden, who won Sixth Man of the Year in 2012, Russell Westbrook, Paul George, and Carmelo Anthony. Current stars include reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren.

Fans have equally embraced role players like Kendrick Perkins, Steven Adams, Enes Kanter, Nick Collison, and currently Jaylin Williams and Alex Caruso.

The organization’s commitment to community service intensified after the devastating 2013 tornado that destroyed Briarwood and Plaza Towers elementary schools. Players provided immediate personal and financial assistance before any formal rebuilding efforts began.

“There were Thunder players who came here and met with people and financially helped people,” recalled Leesa Kniffen, a season ticket holder who has taught at Briarwood for 25 years. “It started way before there was any formal rebuilding going on. It started at a personal level.”

When Briarwood reopened in 2014, the Thunder built a basketball court that they resurfaced again last year. The school’s library features a large Lego-style display of a boy wearing a Thunder jersey.

Hezekiah Darbon, who was 6 during the tornado and is now 19, remembers meeting Durant at a camp and Serge Ibaka when the court was constructed in 2014.

“They don’t say ‘Thunder Cares’ for nothing,” Darbon said. “And after going through that, honestly, it kind of feels more like ‘Thunder Loves.’”

The team reached the 2016 Western Conference Finals, holding a 3-1 lead over Golden State before losing the series in seven games. Durant’s subsequent free agency departure to join the Warriors devastated fans.

“I think that’s what hurt so most when he left us July 4th, is we thought he was one of us, and we still do,” Shahan said. “We felt hurt, we felt betrayed. He could have been the king of Oklahoma.”

Westbrook’s decision to remain provided healing, as he won MVP the following season with a memorable campaign of triple-doubles and spectacular plays. His defiant attitude resonated with Oklahomans who felt historically overlooked. Beyond basketball, Westbrook invested in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, serving needy families each Thanksgiving and participating in local comedy and fashion scenes. Though traded in 2019, he maintains ties to the city, including an ownership stake in the minor-league soccer team that will play in a new 10,000-seat downtown stadium opening in 2028.

The Thunder endured difficult seasons, posting 22-50 and 24-58 records in consecutive years. However, those struggles enabled the team to draft Holmgren second overall and Williams 12th in 2022, with both becoming All-Stars. By 2024, Oklahoma City earned the Western Conference’s top seed for two straight years.

Rob Clay, whose distinctive voice has made him a popular national anthem performer since the team’s arrival, sang before Game 1 of last year’s Finals. The 51-year-old Chicago native moved to Oklahoma City in 2001 and compares the current team to the 1990s Bulls dynasty he grew up watching.

“If you are a true fan of basketball, if you are true analyst of basketball, you cannot deny that Oklahoma City — they are next in line and have the opportunity to be the next dynasty,” he said. “And it happened authentically. We drafted our team and we picked up free agents. It wasn’t something that was just put together to be a superteam.”

The team’s organic development mirrors the city’s own rebuilding process. Last year’s championship parade route passed directly by the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, and this year’s playoff opener coincidentally fell on the bombing’s 31st anniversary.

“For us to represent the city and honor the victims and the families today with a home playoff game was a privilege for us,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said. “We don’t take that lightly.”

In a dominant pitching performance, Tyler Glasnow surrendered only a single hit across eight shutout frames as the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the San Francisco Giants 3-0, preventing a series sweep at Oracle Park.

The Dodgers received offensive contributions from Max Muncy, who crossed home plate twice, while Dalton Rushing and Hyeseong Kim each contributed RBI hits. Los Angeles put their first run on the board during the second frame before extending their lead with two additional runs in the fourth inning.

Glasnow improved to 3-0 on the season, recording nine strikeouts before departing after 105 pitches. Tanner Scott completed the shutout in the ninth inning, earning his first save of the campaign. Kim and Kyle Tucker each collected two hits for the Dodgers, with both Muncy and Tucker adding doubles to their stat lines.

San Francisco managed just one safety against the right-handed starter, courtesy of Luis Arraez’s leadoff single in the fourth frame. Giants starter Logan Webb suffered the loss, falling to 2-3 after working seven innings and surrendering three runs on seven hits.

Cubs 8, Phillies 7 (10 innings)

Dansby Swanson delivered a game-winning hit in extra innings, extending Chicago’s winning streak to nine games while Philadelphia suffered their ninth consecutive defeat.

Seiya Suzuki’s third home run in three contests gave the Cubs a 7-6 advantage in the eighth, but Philadelphia’s Adolis Garcia answered with a pinch-hit homer in the ninth to force extra innings. In the tenth, reliever Tanner Banks (0-2) intentionally walked Suzuki before allowing Carson Kelly’s base hit to load the bags. Following Michael Busch’s strikeout, Swanson’s single to right field ended the marathon contest.

Busch contributed a home run and four RBIs, while Suzuki went deep and matched Kelly with three hits each. Chicago accumulated 18 hits in the victory. Brandon Marsh paced Philadelphia with a 3-for-4 performance that included two home runs.

Mets 10, Twins 8

Bo Bichette’s three-hit performance, highlighted by a tie-breaking three-run double in the eighth inning, powered New York past Minnesota in the decisive third game of their interleague matchup.

Brett Baty launched a three-run blast in the opening frame for the Mets, who surrendered a 7-2 advantage before claiming their second straight victory following a 12-game losing streak. New York plated three runs in the second before Carson Benge added a fourth-inning homer.

Ryan Jeffers knotted the score with a grand slam in the eighth for Minnesota, which has dropped six of their last seven contests. Tristan Gray contributed a sixth-inning homer and added an RBI single in the ninth.

Braves 7, Nationals 2

Rookie pitcher JR Ritchie excelled in his major league debut, tossing seven strong innings while Ozzie Albies recorded three hits and four RBIs in Atlanta’s road victory over Washington.

James Wood greeted Ritchie with a leadoff home run on the very first pitch, but the rookie hurler (1-0) limited the damage to two runs on five hits while striking out seven batters. Albies launched his fifth homer of the year in the ninth inning, while Michael Harris II went 3-for-4 and scored twice.

Cionel Perez (1-3) surrendered three runs on one hit and two walks in just one-third of an inning as Atlanta broke a tie with four runs in the seventh. CJ Abrams added a solo shot for Washington’s other tally, while starter Cade Cavalli recorded a career-best 10 strikeouts.

Tigers 5, Brewers 4

Spencer Torkelson’s walk-off solo homer with one out in the ninth lifted Detroit over Milwaukee in dramatic fashion.

Torkelson, who hit his first long ball of the season Wednesday, crushed a 3-1 sinker from Abner Uribe (1-1) over the left field barrier as Detroit captured two of three games in the series. Riley Greene provided a two-run homer while pinch-hitter Jahmai Jones delivered a game-tying solo shot in the eighth.

Blake Perkins drove home two runs for Milwaukee. Gary Sanchez collected two hits, one run and an RBI while David Hamilton added two hits and one RBI.

Padres 10, Rockies 8

Gavin Sheets’ three-run homer in the ninth inning completed a five-run comeback that lifted San Diego past Colorado in a high-scoring affair.

Sheets’ third home run of the season tagged Victor Vodnik (0-2) with a blown save after the reliever allowed five earned runs in two-thirds of an inning. Ron Marinaccio (1-0) earned his first MLB victory in two years by working two relief innings.

Colorado’s loss wasted Mickey Moniak’s outstanding performance, as he recorded his second two-homer game of the season against San Diego. Moniak finished 4-for-5 with three runs and two RBIs, leading a 14-hit offensive attack.

White Sox 4, Diamondbacks 1

Andrew Benintendi’s three-run homer with one out in the ninth inning propelled Chicago past Arizona in Phoenix.

Chase Meidroth drew a leadoff walk against Paul Sewald (0-3) to open the ninth and advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt before pinch-hitter Edgar Quero also walked, setting the stage for Benintendi. His 410-foot blast landed near the pool area in right-center field.

Chicago belted eight home runs while taking two of three games in the series and has now hit 15 homers over their last five contests. Grant Taylor (1-0) allowed two hits and struck out three after entering in relief of Davis Martin with one out in the seventh.

Yankees 4, Red Sox 2

Cody Bellinger’s pinch-hit two-RBI single helped New York extend their winning streak to six games with a victory over Boston.

Cam Schlittler (3-1) limited Boston to two runs on four hits across eight innings to earn the victory. David Bednar worked a perfect ninth to record his seventh save.

Bellinger came through with two outs and the bases loaded in the seventh inning, putting New York ahead 3-2. Aaron Judge followed with an RBI single that scored Jose Caballero, giving the Yankees a 4-2 cushion.

Rangers 6, Pirates 1

Evan Carter’s inside-the-park home run and Jacob deGrom’s stellar pitching performance led Texas past Pittsburgh in the rubber match of their three-game series in Arlington.

deGrom (2-0) recorded a season-high 10 strikeouts across 5⅔ innings while allowing just one run. Corey Seager’s three-run blast off Pittsburgh starter Bubba Chandler (1-2) broke the contest open, doubling the Rangers’ 3-0 lead with one swing.

Chandler departed after four innings, surrendering six runs and seven hits for Pittsburgh. Oneil Cruz connected for a two-out solo homer to end deGrom’s shutout bid.

Buffalo forward Alex Tuch netted the go-ahead goal just over four minutes into the final period Thursday night, leading the Sabres to a 3-1 road victory against the Boston Bruins in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff matchup.

The victory marks the second consecutive road team triumph in the best-of-seven series, with Buffalo now holding a 2-1 advantage.

Noah Ostlund and Bowen Byram each contributed a goal and assist for the Sabres, while goaltender Alex Lyon made 24 saves in his playoff debut this season.

Boston’s Tanner Jeannot found the net for the Bruins’ only score, and Jeremy Swayman recorded 25 saves in the losing effort.

In other playoff action, Carolina defeated Ottawa 2-1 in Game 3, with Logan Stankoven extending his scoring streak to three games. The Hurricanes now lead their series 3-0, putting the Senators in a nearly impossible position, as only four NHL teams have ever recovered from such a deficit to win a playoff series. Jackson Blake added Carolina’s other goal, while Taylor Hall recorded two assists and Frederik Andersen stopped 21 shots. Drake Batherson scored for Ottawa, who have trailed throughout all three games, and Linus Ullmark made 25 saves.

Colorado moved to the brink of a sweep with a 4-2 road win over Los Angeles in their Western Conference series. Artturi Lehkonen led the Avalanche with one goal and one assist, while Gabriel Landeskog, Cale Makar and Brock Nelson also found the net. Colorado goalie Scott Wedgewood turned away 24 shots. The Kings got goals from Trevor Moore and Adrian Kempe, managing just four total goals through three games. Los Angeles netminder Anton Forsberg stopped 19 shots, and Alex Laferriere added two assists.

The opening round of the 2026 NFL Draft concluded Friday evening, leaving several talented prospects who were once considered first-round material still waiting to hear their names called. As teams prepare for Saturday’s second round, here are the top players still available:

Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy remains on the draft board after missing all of the 2025 season with a torn ACL in his right knee. Sources indicate his recovery process still requires additional work, which explains his unexpected slide. Despite the injury setback, McCoy’s performance during the 2024 campaign demonstrated elite-level talent that would have likely placed him in the top 10 selections if he had stayed healthy.

Another Tennessee defensive back, cornerback Colton Hood, surprisingly made it through the first round despite being fully healthy. Hood’s explosive speed and physical style of play seemed to make him a natural choice for an early pick. Some analysts wonder if McCoy’s injury situation may be negatively affecting how teams view Hood as well.

Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren was passed over even though two safeties were selected in round one, which is uncommon. His Group of 5 conference background and questions about his man-to-man coverage skills may have contributed to his slide. However, McNeil-Warren’s zone coverage instincts and athletic ability should make him an attractive early second-round selection.

Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell likely fell due to concerns about his arm length, which measures between 30 and 31 inches depending on the source. Most edge rushers chosen Thursday had more conventional measurements, except for Rueben Bain Jr., who dropped to the 15th pick. Teams willing to overlook the physical limitation will land one of the draft’s most effective speed rushers who excels at turning quarterback pressure into sacks. Howell also performs well when dropping back into pass coverage.

Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald watched four of his Buckeye teammates get drafted Thursday but remained available heading into day two. Teams may view McDonald as limited to run-stopping duties at nose tackle, which could explain his slide. However, clubs needing a reliable anchor for their defensive line should consider McDonald early in round two, especially since his pass-rushing ability may be undervalued.

Tennessee Titans shock with Ohio State WR Carnell Tate at pick 4

Bettors who wagered on Tate becoming the first Buckeye selected likely cashed in big. Tennessee faced multiple roster holes and had already invested significantly in mid-round wide receivers during last year’s draft, making the position an unlikely priority for the franchise.

Tate brings an excellent fit to Tennessee’s receiving corps, offering a legitimate top-tier option alongside Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike, who demonstrated potential but couldn’t quite provide enough support to boost quarterback Cam Ward’s early performance. Connecting their franchise signal-caller with an elite receiving target early in the draft could signal positive developments for Tennessee’s offensive unit.

Kansas City Chiefs surprise with LSU CB Mansoor Delane at selection 6

While teams making moves to climb the draft board wasn’t shocking in a talent class lacking elite prospects, most observers expected Kansas City’s potential trade-up would target pass rush help. The Chiefs did lose several cornerbacks during the offseason, but their aggressive move for Delane caught many off guard.

Nevertheless, head coach Andy Reid should be pleased to add Delane to the roster, considering the team’s limited depth at outside corner positions. The defensive backfield should gain stability through Delane’s versatile coverage skills.

Los Angeles Rams stun with Alabama QB Ty Simpson at number 13

The first-season Alabama quarterback has landed in an ideal developmental situation. Working under Rams head coach Sean McVay’s guidance while learning behind established starter Matthew Stafford for the next year or two, Simpson appears positioned to reach the peak form he displayed during his final college campaign’s opening half. Los Angeles is providing him extensive time to grow, which makes sense for a prospect many analysts believed couldn’t contribute immediately. Nevertheless, this pick stunned observers who view the Rams as legitimate Super Bowl contenders this year.

Minnesota Vikings take risk on Louisville DL Caleb Banks at pick 18

Had Banks not missed most of the 2025 season due to foot problems, this selection wouldn’t have raised eyebrows. However, Banks sustained another foot injury during the NFL Combine, leading many to believe his draft value had plummeted significantly.

Minnesota’s front office apparently focused on the exceptional athletic ability Banks demonstrated at the combine and seized the opportunity to select him. Whether this proves to be a brilliant high-upside gamble or a costly mistake remains to be determined through medical evaluations and time.

Kansas City executed the first trade-up of the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday evening, exchanging picks with Cleveland to secure LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane with the sixth overall selection.

The deal saw Kansas City surrender the ninth overall pick along with third-round (74th) and fifth-round (148th) selections to move up three positions. Cleveland used the acquired ninth pick to draft Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano, marking the first lineman selected in the draft.

The move addresses a critical need for Kansas City, which missed the playoffs for the first time since 2014 and recently traded two-time All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to Los Angeles.

Delane became the evening’s first cornerback selected after earning unanimous All-American honors in 2025. During his final season at LSU, he recorded two interceptions, broke up 11 passes, and made 45 tackles across 11 games. The Virginia Tech transfer compiled impressive career totals including eight interceptions, 27 pass breakups, 191 tackles, and seven tackles for loss over four college seasons.

Dallas also made moves on draft night, trading up one spot to select Ohio State safety Caleb Downs at No. 11. The Cowboys sent picks 12, 177, and 180 to Miami, which immediately selected Alabama offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor.

The Cowboys continued their draft-day activity by dealing the 20th pick to division rival Philadelphia in exchange for the 23rd selection and two fourth-round picks (114th and 137th overall).

Philadelphia used their acquired pick to select USC receiver Makai Lemon, who became the third wide receiver drafted despite falling past several teams needing help at the position. Lemon posted 1,156 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns on 79 catches during his junior season with the Trojans. He joins DeVonta Smith on a Philadelphia roster amid widespread speculation that disgruntled star A.J. Brown will be traded to New England after June 1.

With their original pick at 23, Dallas selected UCF defensive lineman Malachi Lawrence, who recorded 20 sacks, 28 tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles during his 39-game college career.

BOSTON — When Cam Schlittler took the mound at Fenway Park wearing a New York Yankees uniform, the hometown crowd’s reaction was far more civil than the online harassment he’s endured.

The 25-year-old right-hander delivered a masterful performance against his childhood team, holding the Boston Red Sox to just four hits across eight innings as New York completed a three-game sweep with a 4-2 victory Thursday night, extending their winning streak to six games.

Growing up in Walpole as a Red Sox supporter and later playing college baseball at Northeastern, Schlittler recently revealed to the New York Post that he and his family have been receiving death threats online.

During his pre-game warmup in the bullpen, Yankees digital content producer Cody Charneski accompanied Schlittler with a camera. The pitcher noted that the presence of cameras seemed to keep fan behavior more respectful.

“There was a couple things but, again, Cody is out there with the camera, so I think that’ll limit that,” Schlittler explained. “Not too bad. I think you overestimate how many genuine people are out there compared to online. So it’s a good feeling. I had a lot of buddies out there watching.”

Family members and friends could be seen celebrating enthusiastically when Schlittler struck out Jarren Duran on his 96th and final pitch of the night.

The performance improved Schlittler’s record to 3-1 while surrendering just two runs (one earned) with five strikeouts, one walk, and dropping his ERA to 1.77. The eight-inning effort marked his longest appearance in 20 regular-season starts.

This outing matched his previous dominance over Boston, when he threw eight scoreless innings to eliminate the Red Sox in last year’s American League Wild Card Series at Yankee Stadium.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised his young pitcher’s mental approach. “He’s got a great demeanor about him. He’s very even keeled and very adaptable, but also competitive and very confident. All great traits,” Boone said. “He’s always looking forward to his day out there. He’s a very confident guy and I think it’s meaningful for him to come back to where he grew up.”

Before warming up, Schlittler tossed a baseball to a fan sitting in the front row near right field. During the game, another supporter displayed a yellow sign reading “Walpole Loves Schlittler.”

“For the most part, really respectful,” Schlittler said of the fan treatment.

When the public address announcer introduced Schlittler as New York’s starting pitcher, the crowd responded with a mix of applause and jeers. Cody Bellinger, whose pinch-hit two-run single sparked a three-run seventh inning rally, commended how his teammate has handled the intense scrutiny.

“I think he handled it great,” Bellinger said. “He’s such a young kid, and this rivalry, it is — it’s different when you wear these two uniforms and he’s just done a tremendous job pitching and handling everything that comes with it.”

In that playoff elimination game, Schlittler recorded 12 strikeouts to end Boston’s 2025 season.

“There were plenty of distractions to be had before his playoff start last year, and he obviously handled that really well,” Boone reflected.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora remembered that postseason performance vividly. “He was throwing hard that day,” Cora said before Thursday’s series finale. “From pitch one, we had to be almost perfect. We didn’t put too much pressure on him.”

Fernando Mendoza faces his biggest challenge yet: transforming the struggling Las Vegas Raiders into championship contenders.

Las Vegas selected the Indiana quarterback with Thursday’s first overall pick in the NFL Draft. The 22-year-old becomes the focal point of the franchise’s rebuilding efforts after his remarkable season with the Hoosiers, where he captured the Heisman Trophy and guided the program to its inaugural national championship.

During his final college campaign, Mendoza threw 41 touchdown passes against just six interceptions while completing 72% of his attempts, leading Indiana to a flawless 16-0 season that few predicted. The Hoosiers entered the year holding the FBS record for most losses in history with 715 defeats.

Las Vegas’s choice came as no shock given their dismal 3-14 finish in 2025. The selection had been widely anticipated for months as the Raiders searched for their franchise quarterback. The remaining question centers on whether Mendoza will immediately claim the starting role or learn behind veteran Kirk Cousins initially.

While the Raiders’ selection lacked drama, the remainder of the top 10 delivered plenty of unexpected moves.

New York’s Jets surprised many by choosing Texas Tech pass rusher David Bailey second overall. Bailey recorded 14.5 sacks across 14 games last season, leading the Jets to overlook heavily favored edge rusher Arvell Reese.

Arizona made another stunning move at third overall, selecting Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. Despite having other pressing needs, the Cardinals couldn’t pass on Love’s explosive ability after he averaged 6.9 yards per rush and scored 18 rushing touchdowns.

Tennessee continued the surprises at fourth overall by choosing Ohio State receiver Carnell Tate over top defensive prospects. Tate hauled in 51 receptions for nine touchdowns during the 2025 season.

Speaking about his new partnership with Titans quarterback Cam Ward, Tate expressed confidence in their future connection.

“I’m a reliable target for him,” Tate stated. “Whenever he needs me, I’m there for him. I’m always open.”

The New York Giants capitalized on Reese’s slide, grabbing him fifth overall to bolster what could become one of the league’s most formidable pass-rushing groups.

“The Giants told me they’re going to get unique with me,” Reese commented. “They said they’re going to use me in a bunch of unique ways. I’m looking forward to that.”

The evening’s first trade materialized when Kansas City moved up three spots from ninth to sixth, sending Cleveland their third-round selection (74th overall) and fifth-round pick (148th overall) to make the jump.

The Chiefs then chose LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane with their acquired pick.

Delane revealed that Kansas City had kept their interest quiet throughout the pre-draft process, apparently as a strategic deception.

“They said they just wanted to keep it quiet and make that sneak move,” Delane explained. “And they made the best move in the draft. So I’m excited.”

Washington continued the Ohio State trend at seventh overall by selecting linebacker Sonny Styles, making him the third Buckeye chosen among the top seven picks. New Orleans followed at eighth by drafting Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson.

Two offensive linemen completed the top 10 selections.

Cleveland used the ninth pick to select Utah tackle Spencer Fano. The Giants then utilized their second first-round selection to choose Miami Hurricanes tackle Francis Mauigoa tenth overall.

Dallas moved quickly when Ohio State safety Caleb Downs dropped beyond the top 10. The Cowboys traded up one position to 11th overall, sending Miami the 12th pick plus two fifth-round selections (177th and 180th overall) to secure Downs for their secondary.

Miami responded by taking Alabama tackle Kadyn Proctor with the 12th pick, making him the third offensive lineman selected.

Los Angeles delivered another shock at 13th overall by choosing Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. The Rams saw an opportunity to secure their future signal-caller, who will develop under head coach Sean McVay and veteran starter Matthew Stafford.

“Two of the greatest minds in offense,” Simpson said. “I’m looking forward to it.”

Baltimore selected Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane 14th overall, while Tampa Bay chose Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. with the 15th pick.

Bain Jr. openly expressed his frustration about falling to the 15th selection and spoke passionately about proving the Buccaneers made the correct decision.

“I know I’m the best in the country, and I’m going to show it,” he declared.

The Jets added Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq 16th overall, followed by Detroit selecting Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller with the 17th pick.

The NBA handed Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker a hefty $35,000 penalty on Thursday for publicly blasting a referee’s work following his team’s playoff defeat, though the league also gave him some vindication in the process.

Officials announced they were overturning a technical foul assessed against Booker during the late stages of the third quarter, stating it had been “improperly assessed.”

The controversy stemmed from Phoenix’s 120-107 defeat to Oklahoma City on Wednesday night, which put the Suns in a 2-0 hole in their Western Conference quarterfinal matchup against the defending champions. Following that loss, Booker didn’t hold back when discussing the game’s officiating.

“It’s definitely something that has to be looked at,” Booker said postgame. “I heard (Oklahoma City’s Alex) Caruso tell them to call the tech, and he ended up doing it. In my 11 years, I haven’t called a ref out by name, but James (Williams) was terrible tonight.”

The veteran guard continued his criticism, stating, “Whatever I get fined for, everybody can pull the clips and see where the frustration comes from.”

The financial penalty came from NBA executive vice president and head of basketball operations James Jones. The league’s statement also responded to Booker’s accusations of bias, declaring, “Following an investigation including multiple interviews and video review, the league found no basis to any claim of bias or misconduct by game officials.”

Despite defending the officials’ conduct, the NBA acknowledged the technical foul against Booker should never have been called.

In Wednesday’s contest, Booker contributed 22 points and seven rebounds, following up his 23-point, six-rebound performance in the series opener. During the regular season, the guard averaged 26.1 points, 6.0 assists and 3.9 rebounds across 64 starts.

Throughout his 11-year NBA career, all spent in Phoenix, Booker has earned five All-Star selections. His career statistics include 24.6 points, 5.3 assists and 4.0 rebounds per game over 737 appearances, with 712 as a starter.

Following intense public backlash, University of Kentucky Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart announced Thursday he will decline a controversial $1 million position that was set to begin after his retirement.

Both UK President Eli Capilouto and Barnhart released joint statements confirming that Barnhart will not take the executive in residence role with the UK Sports and Workforce Initiative. The position drew sharp criticism from Governor Andy Beshear, who described it on social media Tuesday as “a new $1 million job that has no defined duties.” Major Kentucky athletics donors also voiced opposition to the arrangement.

“Mitch Barnhart came to me earlier this week to share his concern that the discussion surrounding his future role leading our sports workforce initiative has become a distraction from the work of our university,” Capilouto said in a statement. “Mitch and his family care deeply about this institution and our state, and they want the focus to return to the work that matters most for our students and the Commonwealth.”

Capilouto confirmed that the 66-year-old Barnhart will proceed with his planned retirement on June 30 but will “step away” from the university role they had designed for him. They will negotiate his departure terms according to his existing contract. Initial reports indicated Barnhart would have received $950,000 per year through August 2030.

“The compensation associated with his departure will be supported entirely by private funds — not athletic funds, not funds that would go toward NIL opportunities or university funds — that I will raise,” Capilouto said. “Mitch’s impact on this university has been profound, and I am grateful for his decades of leadership and service.”

Barnhart has led the Wildcats’ athletic program since 2002, making him the SEC’s longest-serving athletic director currently in position.

Last August, Barnhart received a contract extension running through 2028. Reports indicate his agreement contained provisions allowing him to transition from his athletic director duties in July 2026 to take on a different university role, such as serving as a special assistant to Capilouto.

In Thursday’s announcement, Barnhart explained his decision to change course.

“With our family previously having made the decision to retire in June from the position of Athletics Director, we were very excited about beginning the Workforce Initiative, developing a new program and pouring into the next generation of leaders in sports,” Barnhart said. “Work has already begun on the Initiative but recently it has become apparent that now is not the right time and we would never stand in the way of what we deem best. The world of sports is dynamic and ever-changing. It is my hope that this initiative will continue in the future.”

Under Barnhart’s leadership, the Wildcats captured six national titles: men’s basketball in 2012, women’s volleyball in 2020, and rifle team championships in 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2022.

The Kentucky football program achieved two 10-win seasons during his tenure in 2018 and 2021, reaching its highest point with a No. 7 Associated Press ranking in 2022.

The Sports Business Journal recognized Barnhart as Division I Athletic Director of the Year in 2019.

However, recent struggles in major sports programs have created challenges. Kentucky’s football team’s decline resulted in the dismissal of head coach Mark Stoops in December following 13 seasons. Despite being the most successful football coach in school history with an 82-80 record, Stoops’ teams struggled to 4-8 in 2024 and 5-7 in 2025.

Kentucky faced a substantial buyout obligation of approximately $37.7 million to Stoops, representing 75% of his remaining contract value.

The men’s basketball program, long considered the crown jewel of Kentucky athletics and among college basketball’s elite programs, experienced upheaval when accomplished coach John Calipari departed in 2024 after 14 seasons, despite winning the 2012 national championship. His successor, Mark Pope, has struggled to meet the high standards expected in Lexington.

“I am losing confidence and growing increasingly concerned with the management and decision-making at the University of Kentucky,” Beshear said in a statement on Tuesday. “My concerns include the creation of a new $1 million job that has no defined duties and the announcement that the new dean of law was the only candidate not recommended by law school faculty.”

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza expressed overwhelming joy Thursday night after the Las Vegas Raiders selected him with the first overall pick in the NFL Draft, calling the opportunity to join the franchise “ecstatic.”

The selection came as no surprise, as Mendoza captured the Heisman Trophy this past season while guiding the Hoosiers to a perfect 16-0 record and their first national championship. Now the 22-year-old signal-caller says he’s ready to advance to professional football.

“College was fantastic and I’m so blessed to have had that career, but now I step into the great game in the NFL,” Mendoza stated. “I look forward to earning it and proving it every day.”

RAIDERS SEEK TURNAROUND

Las Vegas is counting on Mendoza’s precision throwing, smart decision-making, and durability to help resurrect a franchise with a rich history but recent struggles. The organization is coming off a disappointing 3-14 campaign where they managed just 241 points, the fewest in the league, and haven’t secured a postseason victory since before Mendoza was even born.

Raiders General Manager John Spytek emphasized that selecting Mendoza wasn’t simply handing him the starting role, but rather the result of extensive evaluation where the quarterback excelled at every level of assessment.

“He’s a hard-working, driven and extremely smart young man,” Spytek commented.

The rookie quarterback will have the unique opportunity to learn from Raiders minority owner Tom Brady, the seven-time Super Bowl champion, while competing with veteran Kirk Cousins and 2023 draft selection Aidan O’Connell in the quarterback competition.

HIGH EXPECTATIONS

Raiders supporters are hoping Mendoza represents the long-term answer at quarterback that has eluded the organization for years.

“I expect fans to see a guy who comes out and gives his best to Raider Nation,” Spytek explained. “He’s going to compete his tail off with Kirk and with Aidan. As we’ve said, this is a meritocracy in the NFL. The best guy will play. But we expect him to come in ready to roll — that’s the kind of person he is.”

During his final collegiate season, Mendoza posted impressive numbers, completing 71.5% of his throws for 2,980 yards while contributing 39 total touchdowns. When NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell called his name from the stage in Pittsburgh, Mendoza embraced his mother and displayed a wide grin while donning his new Raiders hat.

“What a great organization, what a great legacy,” Mendoza said about the Raiders, who have reached five Super Bowls and claimed three championships. “There are so many great teammates, coaches and owners I’m looking forward to talking to. I’m ecstatic for the opportunity.”

The New York Jets made Texas Tech pass rusher David Bailey their top choice Thursday evening, selecting him with the second overall pick in the NFL Draft at their Florham Park, New Jersey headquarters.

Bailey brings much-needed defensive firepower to head coach Aaron Glenn’s squad, which struggled significantly on defense during the previous season and ranked among the league’s bottom performers.

This selection launches what promises to be an active opening phase for the franchise, as New York holds four picks within the first 44 selections. The organization also controls the 16th overall choice and opens Friday evening’s second round with the 33rd pick.

“I feel like this organization is trending in the right way,” Bailey said. “I’m just ready to work.”

The selection marks the highest defensive player chosen by the franchise since the NFL merger occurred in 1970.

While Las Vegas was widely expected to take quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the top selection, speculation focused heavily on New York’s intentions at the second spot. Recent weeks saw both Bailey and Ohio State edge rusher Arvell Reese frequently mentioned as potential targets for the organization, with the main question being which player they would ultimately choose rather than whether they might trade the selection.

General manager Darren Mougey opted to remain at the second position and selected Bailey, who faces expectations to strengthen a pass rush that finished 31st league-wide with just 26 quarterback takedowns. The crosstown Giants subsequently chose Reese fifth overall.

The 22-year-old dominated during his final college campaign at Texas Tech, sharing the national lead with 14.5 quarterback sacks. His impressive statistics also included ranking second nationally with 19.5 tackles behind the line of scrimmage, along with three forced fumbles and three pass breakups across 14 appearances, including 13 starting assignments.

Bailey’s arrival helps fill the void left by edge rusher Jermaine Johnson, whom the organization traded to Tennessee in February in exchange for defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat.

“That feeling, it’s like no other,” Bailey said of getting sacks. “It’s really what I be chasing. I have a lot of motivations for why I play the game. That’s one of them. That feeling when you get a sack and the crowd is on your side, especially during a home game — but regardless, home or away — it’s one of the best feelings. I take a lot of pride in that.”

Following three campaigns at Stanford, Bailey transferred to Texas Tech where he earned Associated Press All-America recognition, Big 12 defensive lineman of the year honors, the conference’s newcomer award, and became a Lombardi Award finalist for the nation’s top lineman.

The franchise canceled Bailey’s scheduled top-30 prospect visit last week, prompting some observers to question their continued interest. However, Mougey clarified during Tuesday’s pre-draft media session that the cancellation didn’t reflect reduced enthusiasm.

“In regards to David, we had good touch points with him at the combine, we went to his pro day, had a good dinner with him,” Mougey said. “We were just kind of juggling our 30 and how to use them and I wouldn’t look too much into a cancellation because there were other ones we may have changed, as well.”

Bailey will ultimately visit the team’s training facility after all, now as their premier draft selection.

“I had a great interaction with them at the combine,” Bailey said. “Obviously, they canceled the 30 visit, but other than that, man, I had a great FaceTime with Mougey and everybody.”

This represents only the fourth occasion in franchise history that the organization has held the second overall selection, and the first since choosing quarterback Zach Wilson in 2021. Running back Blair Thomas in 1990 and wide receiver Johnny “Lam” Jones in 1980 were the previous second overall picks.

The Chicago Cubs continued their hot streak Thursday afternoon, defeating the Philadelphia Phillies 8-7 in extra innings to extend their winning streak to nine games.

Dansby Swanson delivered the decisive blow with a walk-off single in the 10th inning, capping off a dramatic comeback victory at Wrigley Field. The win completed a four-game sweep of Philadelphia and marked Chicago’s longest winning streak since an 11-game run in 2016.

Meanwhile, the Phillies’ struggles continued as they dropped their ninth consecutive game, leaving them with the worst record in the National League at 8-17.

The extra-inning drama began when Cubs pitcher Javier Assad (2-1) retired Philadelphia in order during the top of the 10th. In the bottom half, Phillies reliever Tanner Banks (0-2) intentionally walked Seiya Suzuki before allowing Carson Kelly’s single to load the bases.

Following Michael Busch’s strikeout, Swanson stepped up and drove a single to right field to end the contest.

Chicago’s offense exploded for 18 hits in the victory, led by Busch’s four RBIs and home run performance. Both Suzuki and Kelly contributed three hits each, with Suzuki also going deep.

The game remained tied 6-6 entering the eighth inning when Suzuki broke the deadlock with his third home run in three games, connecting on a fastball from Philadelphia reliever Brad Keller.

Philadelphia responded in the ninth inning as pinch hitter Adolis Garcia launched his third homer of the season off Chicago’s Caleb Thielbar, evening the score at 7-7 and forcing extra innings.

Cubs starter Edward Cabrera pitched seven innings, surrendering five runs (three earned) on six hits while striking out five batters and issuing no walks. For Philadelphia, Cristopher Sanchez lasted 5 1/3 innings, giving up six runs on 12 hits with four strikeouts and two walks.

Brandon Marsh provided offensive highlights for the Phillies despite the loss, going 3-for-4 with a pair of home runs.

Philadelphia struck first in the second inning when Marsh connected for his third homer of the season. Chicago answered immediately in the bottom half as Kelly and Busch reached base before Swanson’s sacrifice fly tied the game.

The Cubs seized control in the third inning after singles by Suzuki and Kelly set up Busch’s three-run blast, establishing a 4-1 advantage.

The Phillies cut into the deficit in the fourth when Bryce Harper’s single preceded Marsh’s RBI hit, making it 4-2. Chicago restored its three-run cushion in the bottom of the fourth as Ian Happ launched his seventh home run of the year.

After Happ singled with one out in the sixth, Sanchez was lifted for Chase Shugart. Suzuki followed with a single and Kelly was hit by a pitch before Busch’s RBI groundout extended the lead to 6-2.

Philadelphia mounted a comeback in the seventh inning, starting with Marsh’s second homer of the game. Bryson Stott singled and Alec Bohm doubled before Alex Bregman’s throwing error allowed Stott to score. Garrett Stubbs then delivered a sacrifice fly to pull the Phillies within one run.

The Phillies completed their comeback in the eighth when reliever Hoby Milner walked two batters in 2/3 of an inning. Jacob Webb entered with runners on first and second but allowed Edmundo Sosa’s game-tying single.

The Texas Rangers have given 30-year-old right-handed pitcher Peyton Gray his first shot at the major leagues, promoting him after placing left-handed reliever Robert Garcia on the 15-day injured list due to shoulder inflammation on Thursday.

Gray’s path to the big leagues has been anything but conventional, spanning eight years and 278 games across minor league baseball, independent leagues, and four winter seasons playing internationally before finally receiving his major league opportunity.

Garcia hasn’t taken the mound since April 16, though the injured list placement could only be backdated to Monday. The Rangers made space for Gray on their 40-man roster by designating minor league catcher Willie MacIver for assignment.

Following his time in the Rangers’ farm system last year, Gray made a strong impression during spring training as a non-roster invitee. He posted a 2.53 ERA across nine appearances, recording 18 strikeouts against just one walk in 10 2/3 innings pitched.

“Being the 30-year-old non-roster invite that doesn’t have any big league time, I don’t think they expected me to put up as many zeroes and throw as many strikes as I did,” Gray said in the Rangers clubhouse before a series finale against Pittsburgh. “So I think I surprised them. I might have surprised myself a little bit too.”

Gray, who expressed gratitude just to have a pitching job following spring training, started this season with Triple-A Round Rock. He delivered 12 1/3 scoreless innings across seven outings, posting a 1-0 record with two saves, 15 strikeouts, and two walks.

“What a story this is going to be when he gets on the mound. The journey is from minor leagues to independent ball to international, the whole deal. It’s an incredible story and earned,” manager Skip Schumaker said. “I mean, it’s not just because we need a pitcher. Like he’s earned this, and I think that’s what sticks out the most. Dominated in spring training, dominated in Triple-A so far.”

Gray’s professional career began after college at Florida Gulf Coast University with a brief stint in the Colorado Rockies’ Northwest League affiliate in 2018, remaining in their system through 2019.

His baseball odyssey continued in 2021 with the Kansas City Royals’ organization, interspersed with seasons playing for the Milwaukee Milkmen in the independent American Association. He spent this past winter pitching in the Dominican Republic, following three previous winters in Mexico’s Pacific League.

Garcia carries a 0-1 record with a 3.38 ERA through nine appearances for the Rangers this season. While an MRI revealed no structural damage and Garcia received a shoulder injection, he hadn’t pitched in a week before the Rangers made the roster move.

“We were kind of just waiting for it to turn. It just did not. So you can’t be a man short for too much longer,” Schumaker said.

“Now we’re just letting everything set in and let it take its course and give it some time. And then obviously day by day treatment and stuff like that as much as we can do,” Garcia said. “You have to be smart. It is April, and I know how much value I hold in the bullpen. And I don’t want to let this linger for five more months.”

The United States will allow Iran’s national soccer team to participate in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, but will impose strict limitations on who can accompany the athletes, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Thursday.

Speaking to reporters, Rubio clarified that while Iranian players face no restrictions from American officials, individuals connected to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps will be barred from entering the country with the team.

“Nothing from the U.S. has told them they can’t come,” Rubio stated during the briefing.

President Donald Trump echoed this position during remarks at the White House, saying his administration “would not want to affect the athletes.”

The global soccer tournament is scheduled to kick off June 11 across venues in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Rubio explained the administration’s concerns center on Iranian officials rather than the sporting competitors themselves.

“The problem with Iran would be not their athletes. It would be some of the other people they would want to bring with them, some of whom have ties to the IRGC. We may not be able to let them in but not the athletes themselves,” the Secretary of State said.

He added stronger language regarding potential security risks: “They can’t bring a bunch of IRGC terrorists into our country and pretend that they are journalists and athletic trainers.” The United States has officially classified the IRGC as a “foreign terrorist organization.”

Earlier, Paolo Zampolli, a Trump representative without formal World Cup authority, had proposed replacing Iran with Italy in the tournament.

No current indications suggest Iran plans to withdraw from the competition or faces potential tournament exclusion, despite Italy’s failure to qualify.

Following the outbreak of conflict involving Iran, Iranian officials requested FIFA relocate their three group stage matches from American venues to Mexico, but soccer’s governing body denied this request.

Recent military exchanges began February 28 when the United States and Israel conducted strikes against Iran. Iran retaliated with attacks on Israel and Gulf nations hosting American military installations. The ongoing conflict involving U.S.-Israeli operations against Iran and Israeli actions in Lebanon has resulted in thousands of casualties and millions of displaced civilians. A tentative ceasefire in the Iran conflict began more than two weeks ago.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves received a status upgrade to questionable for Friday’s Game 3 matchup with the Houston Rockets in their first-round playoff series.

The Lakers announced the change in Reaves’ availability Thursday as the team traveled to Houston. Despite missing their leading scorers, Los Angeles holds an unexpected 2-0 advantage in the series heading into Friday evening’s contest.

Reaves has been sidelined since suffering an oblique muscle strain alongside Luka Doncic’s hamstring injury during their April 2 game against Oklahoma City. However, Reaves has resumed basketball activities on the court in recent days. Prior to departure, head coach JJ Redick offered no timeline updates regarding when his injured starters might return to action.

During the regular season, Reaves posted strong numbers with 23.3 points, 5.5 assists and 4.7 rebounds per game, though he appeared in just 51 contests due to two extended injury stretches. In his fifth year with the franchise, the former undrafted player established himself as a reliable secondary offensive weapon and playmaker as Los Angeles captured 53 victories and the Pacific Division title.

Both Reaves and league scoring leader Doncic suffered their injuries during the Lakers’ decisive defeat to the Thunder three weeks ago.

While Doncic remains unavailable for Game 3, Redick indicated earlier this week that the Slovenian star should begin preliminary court work in the near future. The Lakers have avoided providing specific return dates for either guard.

Following a three-game losing streak after the injuries occurred, Los Angeles has bounced back with five consecutive wins. The Lakers shocked the basketball world by taking both home games against the Rockets, who entered the series as heavy favorites due to Los Angeles’ injury concerns.

While 41-year-old LeBron James has spearheaded the effort, Luke Kennard and Marcus Smart have delivered outstanding performances filling in for the absent backcourt starters. Kennard contributed 27 points in the series opener and 23 in Game 2, while Smart added 25 points with five three-pointers in Game 2 and anchored the defensive effort that limited Kevin Durant to just three second-half points.

Reaves faces a significant contract decision this summer if he opts out of his current deal as anticipated. Both the player and franchise officials have expressed confidence that the guard will remain with Los Angeles, the team he supported growing up.

FRISCO, Texas — Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens intends to accept the team’s $27.3 million franchise tag offer following the organization’s announcement that it won’t pursue a multi-year agreement this offseason, according to two sources familiar with the situation who spoke Thursday.

While Pickens hasn’t yet put pen to paper on the one-year, fully guaranteed deal, he plans to finalize the matter as Dallas prepares for the upcoming NFL draft, sources told The Associated Press under anonymity since the contract remains unofficial.

This development follows Wednesday’s comments from executive vice president of personnel Stephen Jones, who indicated the Cowboys expected Pickens to play under the franchise designation this season. The two parties would have had until July 15 to negotiate a longer-term arrangement.

Accepting the franchise tag means Pickens faces potential fines for missing mandatory minicamp in June or training camp in July. However, signing the deal enables the 25-year-old to take part in the team’s offseason program, which begins Monday.

The receiver, obtained last offseason through a trade with Pittsburgh, posted personal bests with 93 receptions, 1,429 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns while contributing to one of the NFL’s top offensive units last season. Despite the offensive success, Dallas struggled defensively and finished 7-9-1, extending their playoff absence to two consecutive seasons.

The former Georgia standout, selected in the second round of the 2022 draft, flourished playing opposite CeeDee Lamb, who is entering his second season of a four-year, $136 million extension that places him third among NFL receivers with a $34 million annual average.

The franchise tag represents significant financial motivation for Pickens, as the guaranteed sum far exceeds the $6.8 million he earned throughout his entire four-year rookie contract.

Dallas has previously used the franchise tag with quarterback Dak Prescott and defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence over the past eight years before eventually securing long-term commitments. Conversely, tight end Dalton Schultz and running back Tony Pollard both played under the tag before departing via free agency the following season.

Jones cited the “newness” of Pickens’ time with the Cowboys as a contributing factor in the organization’s preference for a one-year arrangement rather than an extended contract.

During his three seasons in Pittsburgh, Pickens displayed exceptional ability but also exhibited enough concerning behavior that former coach Mike Tomlin publicly questioned his maturity level.

First-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who spent 25 years as an NFL assistant, avoided publicly criticizing Pickens throughout his inaugural season. However, both Pickens and Lamb were benched for the opening series against Las Vegas after violating curfew during a casino visit the previous evening.

BOSTON — A runner from Northern Ireland who assisted in carrying a collapsed competitor across the Boston Marathon finish line Thursday described his decision as pure instinct, despite battling his own exhaustion during the challenging race.

Aaron Beggs explained in a Thursday interview that he had been pushing through his own physical struggles by thinking about members of his running club who may never have the opportunity to participate in such a prestigious event.

“If I had to go farther, I would have,” Beggs stated. “It’s fight or flight, and I decided to fight and help him get to our destination.”

The dramatic rescue unfolded Monday when Ajay Haridasse, a Massachusetts resident and Northeastern University student, collapsed approximately 1,000 feet before reaching the finish line. Beggs, along with Brazilian runner Robson De Olivera, immediately stepped in to assist.

“Then when I came down and up towards Boylston Street, the crowd started cheering and I just turned the corner and happened to see Ajay fall,” Beggs recalled. “I looked at my watch, and I looked at him again, and the natural instinct was just to go and pick him up.”

The Northern Ireland runner described the marathon experience as fundamentally different from shorter competitive races, emphasizing the collaborative spirit among participants.

“We were shaking hands as we were running, and was like, ‘We’ve got this. Let’s do this together,’” he explained. “It’s not like in shorter races where you’re head-to-head trying to beat people. In the marathon, you’re cheering each other on and encouraging everybody.”

The rescue has captured widespread attention through viral video footage. Beggs reported staying in contact with Haridasse and expressed hope to reconnect with De Olivera as well. Remarkably, their combined finishing time met qualification standards for next year’s marathon.

“Three strangers, three different countries, and we’ll have a story for the rest of our lives,” Beggs reflected. “We all need just a nice story in our lives, just to make us smile, bring a tear to your eye with happiness. And it’s nice to be nice.”

The Texas Rangers have sidelined left-handed pitcher Robert Garcia with shoulder inflammation, placing him on the 15-day injured list Thursday.

The roster move dates back to Monday. To fill the spot, Texas promoted right-handed pitcher Peyton Gray from their Triple-A affiliate Round Rock and removed catcher Willie MacIver from the roster by designating him for assignment.

Garcia, age 29, hasn’t taken the mound since April 16, when he successfully retired one batter during a 9-6 victory over Oakland on the road. This season, he holds an 0-1 record with a 3.38 earned run average, issuing seven walks while recording six strikeouts across eight innings in nine appearances during his second year with the Rangers.

Left-handed hitters have struggled against Garcia this year, going hitless in 13 at-bats while striking out four times.

Throughout his professional career, Garcia has compiled a 9-17 record with nine saves and a 3.57 ERA, walking 57 batters and striking out 182 in 163⅔ innings across 177 relief appearances with Miami (2023), Washington (2023-24), and Texas (2025-26).

Gray, who is 30 years old, has excelled at Round Rock with a 1-0 record, two saves, and a perfect 0.00 ERA while walking two and striking out 15 batters in 12⅔ innings over seven relief outings. Opposing hitters have managed just eight hits in 43 at-bats for a .186 average against him.

Should Gray make his major league debut, he would become the oldest Rangers player to do so since pitcher Hyeon-jong Yang, who was 33 when he debuted on April 26, 2021, according to team records.

MacIver, 29, struggled last season with Oakland, hitting .186 with 19 hits in 102 at-bats across 32 games. Texas claimed him off waivers from the Athletics on November 5, 2025. This season at Round Rock, he has hit .170 with eight hits in 47 at-bats over 14 games.

The roster adjustment was necessary to make space on the major league roster. Texas now has seven days to either trade MacIver, release him, or send him outright to the minor leagues.

MILWAUKEE — Sources close to the situation reveal that the Milwaukee Bucks are on the verge of completing an agreement with Taylor Jenkins to become their new head coach following Doc Rivers’ exit, according to information shared with The Associated Press on Thursday.

The source requested anonymity since the organization has not yet made an official announcement. ESPN was first to report the Bucks’ progress toward securing Jenkins for the position.

Jenkins spent six seasons leading the Memphis Grizzlies from 2019 through 2025, compiling a 250-214 coaching record that featured three consecutive postseason appearances between 2021 and 2023. Despite Memphis being playoff-bound, the organization dismissed him with nine contests remaining in the 2024-25 campaign, and the team subsequently suffered a first-round sweep by Oklahoma City, who went on to claim the championship.

The hiring would mark Jenkins’ second tenure in Milwaukee, where he previously served as an assistant under Mike Budenholzer during the 2018-19 campaign. That season saw the Bucks achieve the league’s top record at 60-22 before surrendering a 2-0 advantage in the Eastern Conference finals to Toronto, who captured the title that year.

Jenkins will inherit a Bucks franchise facing a pivotal offseason after posting a disappointing 32-50 record this past season, snapping their nine-year consecutive playoff streak.

The organization announced Rivers’ coaching departure on April 13, one day following their season’s conclusion. The 64-year-old Rivers had indicated during the campaign’s final weeks his desire to dedicate more time to his grandchildren.

Rivers concluded his Milwaukee tenure with a 97-103 record across 2½ seasons. His overall coaching career spans 1,194 victories against 866 defeats, placing him sixth among all-time NBA coaching wins.

Milwaukee’s primary offseason focus centers on the future of two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has played his complete 13-year NBA career with the franchise.

The 31-year-old Antetokounmpo can enter free agency following next season unless he agrees to a four-year, $275 million extension in October. Alternatively, Milwaukee could explore trading him if they doubt his willingness to sign the extension.

When questioned about signing an extension after the team’s final game, Antetokounmpo responded: “It’s something I have to sit down with my family and see what’s best for me, what’s best for my family.”

By season’s end, tension had developed between Antetokounmpo and the organization regarding the nine-time All-NBA forward’s health situation. Antetokounmpo appeared in just 36 games this season, a career low.

Late in the season, Antetokounmpo expressed his readiness and desire to compete, while team officials kept him sidelined due to a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise. The NBA launched an investigation into the circumstances.

Jenkins previously collaborated with Antetokounmpo during his initial Milwaukee stint. He had served on Budenholzer’s coaching staff in both Atlanta and Milwaukee before Memphis recruited him in 2019, coinciding with their selection of Ja Morant as the second overall draft pick.

Under Jenkins’ leadership, Memphis advanced to the playoff’s second round in 2022 and suffered first-round eliminations in 2021 and 2023. His 250 career victories with the Grizzlies represent the franchise’s all-time record for coaching wins.

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — New England Patriots leadership announced Thursday their backing of head coach Mike Vrabel’s choice to absent himself from Saturday’s draft activities while he pursues professional counseling, following recent publication of images showing him with veteran NFL journalist Dianna Russini at an Arizona vacation destination.

In an official statement issued before Thursday’s opening draft round, the organization declared: “The New England Patriots fully support Mike Vrabel’s decision to prioritize his family first, as well as his own well-being. Mike has been open with us about his commitment to being the best version of himself for his family, this team and our fans, and we respect the steps he is taking to follow through on that commitment.”

The franchise expressed continued confidence in their draft preparation, stating: “We are confident in the leadership and communication Mike has established with our personnel staff throughout this pre-draft process. While he will not be present at the facility on Saturday, we know the draft evaluations are complete and Eliot Wolf and his personnel staff are prepared to execute our draft as planned this weekend.”

During a press briefing earlier this week, Vrabel acknowledged having “difficult conversations with people I care about,” referencing discussions with family members, coaching personnel, team leadership and players after the photographs became public through New York Post reporting.

According to the Post’s account, the images of Vrabel and Russini were captured in Sedona prior to the annual NFL meetings that commenced in Phoenix on March 29. League officials have indicated no formal investigation into Vrabel’s conduct is underway. Both Vrabel and Russini are married individuals. Russini departed her position at The Athletic last week.

Vrabel announced his intention to step away from Saturday’s draft proceedings in a Wednesday evening statement.

New England enters the draft weekend with 11 total selections available. This includes their lone first-round choice at No. 31 on Thursday night, plus single picks in both the second and third rounds scheduled for Friday.

The majority of their draft activity will occur Saturday during Vrabel’s absence, with the team holding two fourth-round selections, one fifth-round pick, four sixth-round choices and one seventh-round selection.

A rookie pitcher’s major league debut got off to the worst possible start when Washington’s James Wood launched his very first professional pitch for a home run, but JR Ritchie quickly turned things around to secure his first MLB victory.

The 22-year-old right-handed pitcher bounced back from that opening nightmare to guide the Atlanta Braves to a 7-2 victory over the Washington Nationals on Thursday, marking the team’s eighth victory in their last nine contests.

“One pitch into it I was like, ‘Oh no,’ but after that I bounced back really well,” Ritchie said. “Honestly, probably for the next year I will hate it. Then after that it will be like a funny, ‘Hey, first pitch of my big league career I gave up a nuke.’”

The 2022 draft pick, who was chosen 35th overall, settled in to pitch seven solid innings while surrendering only one additional run. His final line showed five hits allowed with seven strikeouts and two walks, as he threw strikes on 54 of his 89 total pitches. The young hurler showcased his arsenal by averaging 94.4 mph on 24 fastballs while also delivering 25 curveballs, 19 changeups, 10 sliders, seven cutters and four sinkers.

With his victory, Ritchie (1-0) made history as the first Braves pitcher since Matt Wisler in 2015 to surrender two runs or fewer while working seven-plus innings in his major league debut.

“Kids got a lot of weapons man, for right and left handed hitters,” Braves manager Walt Weiss said. “He’s in total control out there. That’s got to shake you up a little bit, first pitch you throw in the big leagues and it gets hit for a homer. But right back on the mound and attacking with all his stuff.”

The rookie received his promotion call from Triple-A Gwinnett manager Kanekoa Texeira at 8 p.m. Wednesday evening and didn’t arrive in the nation’s capital until approximately 2 a.m.

Wood connected on a 93.5 mph fastball thrown down the middle, while CJ Abrams added a fourth-inning home run on a changeup that missed below the strike zone.

The Nationals managed no hits following Daylen Lile’s two-out single in the fourth inning.

Before Thursday’s contest, Atlanta promoted both Ritchie and veteran right-hander Carlos Carrasco from the Triple-A Stripers while sending right-hander Didier Fuentes back to Gwinnett and placing left-hander Dylan Dodd on the 15-day injured list due to left spine inflammation, with the move backdated to Wednesday.

Ritchie had compiled a 3-1 record with an impressive 0.99 ERA across five starts at Triple-A Gwinnett to begin this season.

When questioned about whether Ritchie would receive another starting opportunity with Atlanta, manager Weiss indicated the organization would reach a decision within the next couple of days.

“The kid did a heck of a job and made a great case for himself,” Weiss said with a smile.

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — A Kansas City Chiefs assistant coach is facing criminal charges after being accused of domestic violence involving his daughter.

Dave Merritt, 54, was hit with a misdemeanor domestic battery charge on Thursday following a complaint filed by Johnson County prosecutors in Kansas. Court documents allege Merritt inflicted bodily harm on his daughter.

The Chiefs organization acknowledged they are aware of Merritt’s arrest but declined to provide any statement. Merritt was scheduled to appear before a judge Thursday.

Before transitioning to coaching, the 54-year-old Merritt had a career as an NFL linebacker. He has since established himself as one of the league’s top defensive backs coaches. Merritt joined the Chiefs coaching staff in 2019, and throughout his coaching career, including his tenure with the New York Giants, he has been part of five Super Bowl championship teams.

Additional photographs have emerged showing New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel in what appears to be an intimate encounter with former NFL reporter Diana Russini dating back to 2020.

The New York Post’s Page Six released the images on Thursday, just one day after Vrabel announced he would skip the final day of Saturday’s NFL draft to begin counseling sessions.

This latest development follows the initial controversy that erupted on April 7 when the Post first published images of Vrabel and Russini, who was working as an NFL correspondent for The Athletic at the time, appearing to hold hands and embrace at an upscale resort in Sedona, Arizona.

The most recent photographs were allegedly captured at Tribeca Tavern during the early morning hours of March 11, 2020, and seem to depict the two sitting intimately at the bar and sharing a kiss. “They were kissing and they were all over each other. He had a ring on,” a witness told Page Six.

The March 11, 2020 date is significant as it marks the day the World Health Organization officially declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. At that time, Vrabel was serving as head coach for the Tennessee Titans and was married to his current wife, while Russini was engaged to her now-husband.

The 50-year-old coach provided a statement to the Post regarding Thursday’s revelations.

“As I said the other day, I promised my family, this organization and this team that I was going to give them the best version of me that I can possibly give them. In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend. This is something that I have given a lot of thought to and is something I would advise a player to do if I was counseling them.

“I have always wanted to lead by example and I believe this is what I have to do to be the best husband, father and coach that I possibly can be,” Vrabel continued. “This is not an easy thing for me to admit, but it is one that I know will make me a better person. I appreciate the support that everyone has given me and promise a stronger resolve as a result.”

Vrabel plans to be present with the Patriots on Thursday evening when they make their first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft at the 31st overall selection, and will also participate in the late second and third round selections on Friday. However, he will be absent for the final four rounds taking place on Saturday.

Russini stepped down from her position at The Athletic last week while the New York Times-owned publication conducted an investigation into the nature of her relationship with Vrabel.

When the Arizona photographs first surfaced, Vrabel dismissed them, stating the pictures “show a completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable.”

Vrabel took over as Patriots head coach before the 2025 season, returning to one of his former teams as a player, and led New England to Super Bowl LX. The Seattle Seahawks won that championship game 29-13.

Last season, Vrabel received his second AP NFL Coach of the Year award, having previously won the honor in 2021 while leading the Titans. He served as Tennessee’s head coach from 2018 through 2023.

Atlanta Falcons defensive player James Pearce Jr. has reached an agreement to participate in a pretrial diversion program that will address three felony charges connected to a February 7 domestic incident involving his former girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson.

Attorney Jacob Nunez announced Thursday that his client will complete a six-month diversion program. “Upon completion of the six months without violation, the state will dismiss all felony and misdemeanor charges,” Nunez told The Associated Press.

In a joint statement, Nunez and co-attorney Yale Sanford said, “James is focused on moving forward, rejoining his teammates and the Atlanta Falcons organization as a whole, performing at the highest level, and continuing to be a team player on and off the field.”

The Falcons organization has not yet responded to questions regarding Pearce’s standing with the team.

This development coincides with NFL draft day, marking one year since Atlanta selected Pearce as the 26th overall pick in the 2025 draft. The rookie defensive end topped the team with 10.5 sacks and established a franchise rookie record with 45 quarterback pressures.

However, the pending legal issues have created uncertainty about his future with the organization. New head coach Kevin Stefanski revealed on April 8 that Pearce was absent from the team facility when voluntary offseason activities began.

When asked about Pearce earlier this week, General Manager Ian Cunningham stated there were no developments to report. “Everything is status quo,” Cunningham said Monday.

The Miami-Dade County Florida State Attorney’s Office filed the charges on March 13, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police, and resisting an officer with violence. Prosecutors also brought a misdemeanor stalking charge, while dropping an additional count of aggravated battery of an officer.

Police reports indicate Jackson told investigators she tried to escape from Pearce by driving toward the Doral police station for assistance when Pearce “intentionally collided into the rear of her vehicle with his SUV” before officers arrived on scene.

The arrest affidavit states that Pearce initially ignored police commands to “get on the floor.” According to the police narrative, Pearce then attempted to flee in his vehicle and struck an officer’s left knee “intentionally in an attempt to evade arrest.”

CHICAGO — The Philadelphia Phillies made a significant roster move Thursday, cutting ties with veteran pitcher Taijuan Walker while promoting right-hander Nolan Hoffman from their Triple-A affiliate in Lehigh Valley.

Walker departed the team’s clubhouse hours before Thursday’s matchup with the Chicago Cubs. The 33-year-old was completing the fourth and final year of his $72 million deal with Philadelphia.

The roster shuffle came after the Phillies sent pitcher Alan Rangel down to Triple-A following Wednesday’s 7-2 defeat to Chicago, marking their eighth consecutive loss.

Walker, now in his 14th MLB campaign, earned All-Star recognition with the New York Mets in 2021 and delivered his best Philadelphia performance in 2023 with 15 victories and a 4.38 ERA. However, his production has declined significantly since then, posting a combined 9-19 record with a 5.67 ERA across the last three seasons.

This year proved particularly challenging for Walker, who managed just one win against four losses while posting a 9.13 ERA through five appearances. Wednesday’s outing at Wrigley Field saw him surrender five runs on eight hits over four innings in a relief role, earning the loss. His removal from the rotation became inevitable with ace Zack Wheeler scheduled to return Saturday.

Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski revealed the organization attempted to trade Walker’s contract on multiple occasions without success.

“We know and he knows that he gave every effort that he possibly could to try to get people out and it just wasn’t working,” Dombrowski said. “Maybe a change of scenery will help him.”

Manager Rob Thomson emphasized the decision stemmed purely from on-field results.

“It’s just all performance based. I hope that people understand,” Thomson stated.

Despite the disappointing end, Thomson acknowledged Walker’s contributions, particularly his strong 2023 campaign.

“We had a really good year out of him the first year (2023) with the 15 wins,” Thomson noted. “With the injuries we had last year, this guy took down 125 innings and basically helped us get to the playoffs.”

Thomson also praised Walker’s character and professionalism throughout his Philadelphia tenure.

“He’s one of the best teammates and one of the best people I’ve been around,” Thomson said. “This guys a pro, performance aside.

“He tried everything, being the opener and trying to get some velo back, which he did. It didn’t work out, but it wasn’t for a lack of effort on his part.”

BYU basketball star AJ Dybantsa confirmed Thursday that he will enter the NBA draft, where he’s anticipated to be among the top selections.

The forward from Massachusetts dominated college basketball this season, posting the nation’s highest scoring average at 25.5 points per game while also contributing 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists per contest during his single collegiate campaign.

Dybantsa becomes the first player since Larry Bird’s 1978-79 season at Indiana State to achieve those statistical benchmarks while earning consensus All-American recognition.

“Now the work starts again, all over again,” Dybantsa said. “I’ve had a lot of NBA players tell me that it kind of restarts once you get there. I’m just looking forward to that next step, being a rookie and learning from all the vets.”

The announcement took place at the Davis School in Dybantsa’s native Brockton, Massachusetts, a city known for producing boxing legends Rocky Marciano and Marvin Hagler.

“It’s the city of champions,” Dybantsa said. “I just want to be considered like one of those champions.”

Despite his professional basketball aspirations, Dybantsa plans to continue his education at BYU while pursuing his NBA career. He attended the Davis School through elementary school and credits the institution with teaching him valuable lessons about the importance of academics.

“My mom wanted me to stay in college to graduate,” Dybantsa said. “But I told my mother that I’m going to declare for the draft and also finish and get my degree online. I’ll probably finish within the next four years.”

The draft’s selection order remains undetermined until the lottery scheduled for May 10. Washington, Indiana, and Brooklyn each hold identical 14% chances of securing the first overall pick. When questioned about his preferred destination, Dybantsa’s response was straightforward.

“Whatever team drafts me, bro,” Dybantsa said.

The confident young player already has his sights set on basketball immortality, hoping to one day return to Massachusetts for another significant speech at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

“The next speech — the next big, big speech — I should have is the Hall of Fame speech,” Dybantsa said. “So, we should be good.”

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama will make the trip to Portland with his teammates for this weekend’s playoff games while he works through the NBA’s required concussion protocol procedures.

Head coach Mitch Johnson declined to confirm Thursday whether Wembanyama would be available for Game 3, stating the young star is making progress but his availability against Portland remains up in the air.

“He looks good,” Johnson commented, adding that team officials have not yet begun discussing a timeline for Wembanyama’s return to action.

The French center was present at the team’s training facility Thursday for the second day running, wearing a black hoodie and gray sweatpants. According to teammate Julian Champagnie, Wembanyama managed to take some practice shots.

“He was only around for a little bit this morning,” Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox noted Thursday. “Obviously, we just want him to be healthy.”

The 7-foot-4 center — who became the first player ever to win Defensive Player of the Year unanimously and is among three MVP finalists — sustained his head injury during San Antonio’s Game 2 defeat to Portland Tuesday evening, exiting in the second quarter.

Friday’s Game 3 in Portland will continue the series currently knotted at one game each, with Game 4 scheduled for Sunday in the same city. The Spurs were set to depart for Portland Thursday afternoon.

The NBA’s concussion protocol requires players to complete specific stages before receiving medical clearance. The recovery process starts with low-intensity activities including stationary cycling, light jogging, agility exercises and basketball drills without contact, with neurological testing following each phase.

Medical staff will also compare Wembanyama’s current test results against his preseason baseline neurological assessment before allowing him to advance through the return-to-play stages.

“It’s pretty straightforward,” Johnson explained. “Obviously, we hope he’ll be back at some point. But we’ll allow the protocol to play out. And again, there’s nothing more important than his health.”

A prolonged absence for Wembanyama would severely impact San Antonio, which posted the NBA’s second-best regular season record thanks largely to the versatile French big man. The team managed a 12-6 record during games he missed in the regular season.

This season, Wembanyama posted averages of 25 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists and a league-leading 3.1 blocks per contest. He joined his teammates Wednesday night for a celebration where the squad wore cowboy hats to honor Keldon Johnson’s Sixth Man of the Year recognition.

“We know that he’s chomping at the bit to get back on the court and be with his guys,” Johnson said.

Baseball icon Sandy Koufax has been selected to receive Baseball Digest’s annual Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming the sixth recipient of the prestigious honor.

The Hall of Fame left-hander received the recognition Thursday, an award designed to celebrate “a living individual whose career has been spent in or around Major League Baseball and who has demonstrated outstanding character and has made significant contributions to the game.”

Previous recipients of this distinction include Willie Mays, who received the first award in 2021, broadcaster Vin Scully in 2022, manager Joe Torre in 2023, skipper Dusty Baker in 2024, and announcer Bob Costas in 2025.

“It’s a great honor to be recognized along with the previous award winners,” the 90-year-old Koufax said in a news release. “I thank the distinguished panel.”

The legendary pitcher began his professional career with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1955, the same year the franchise captured its first World Series title. Following the team’s relocation to Los Angeles, Koufax established himself as one of the sport’s most formidable hurlers throughout the 1960s.

During his stellar career, the southpaw captured three Cy Young Awards, earned an MVP honor, and claimed five straight National League ERA championships. His achievements include three seasons with 25 or more victories, leading the major leagues in wins each time, plus seven All-Star selections between 1961 and 1966.

Koufax’s pitching mastery included four no-hit performances, one of which was a perfect game. He earned World Series MVP honors on two occasions, guiding the Dodgers to championships in 1963 and 1965, and was also part of their 1959 title team.

Arthritis in his throwing elbow forced Koufax into early retirement following the 1966 campaign at just 30 years old. His exceptional career earned him entry into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972, making him the youngest inductee at that time. The Dodgers honored him by retiring his No. 32 jersey later that year, and he was selected for MLB’s All-Century Team in 1999.

“The name Sandy Koufax has become a synonym for ‘great pitcher,’” Baseball Digest publisher David Fagley said. “It’s hard to believe it has been 60 years since he last pitched so brilliantly for the Dodgers but, since his retirement, Sandy has been a remarkable representative of our national game, a symbol of class and dignity.”

A panel of 21 veteran baseball participants and observers, including journalists, broadcasters, former athletes, and executives, voted to select Koufax for this year’s award.

Formula One officials announced Thursday that drivers will receive an additional 30 minutes of practice time ahead of the Miami Grand Prix scheduled for May 3rd, following a month-long break in racing and recent safety modifications to competition rules.

The fourth round of the championship marks the sport’s return after Middle Eastern races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were cancelled due to the Iran conflict, creating an unusual gap in the racing calendar.

During the racing hiatus, officials implemented technical rule modifications to address safety concerns and competitive issues that emerged during the season’s opening three events.

The International Automobile Federation announced that following discussions with all involved parties, Friday’s practice session will be extended from one hour to 90 minutes, running from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. local time.

Officials cited several factors for the decision: the extended time since the last race, the recent rule adjustments, and Miami’s sprint weekend format. The compressed schedule includes just one practice session before Friday’s sprint qualifying, followed by Saturday’s 100-kilometer sprint race and Sunday’s qualifying for the main event.

Mercedes has dominated the early season, capturing victories in all three completed races, with Italian rookie Kimi Antonelli currently sitting atop the championship standings.

NEW YORK — The New York Mets finally had something to celebrate Wednesday night as superstar Juan Soto returned from injury to help end their devastating 12-game losing streak with a 3-2 win over the Minnesota Twins.

Soto, who had been sidelined since April 3 with a right calf strain, was activated from the injured list and contributed immediately, going 1-for-3 with a single and a walk while serving as the designated hitter.

“He looked really good,” manager Carlos Mendoza said.

But the joy of Soto’s comeback was quickly overshadowed when shortstop Francisco Lindor suffered what appeared to be a similar injury, leaving the game in the fifth inning with left calf tightness. Lindor is scheduled for an MRI Thursday.

“Here we go again,” Mendoza said. “We’ve got to wait and see what we’re dealing with.”

The four-time All-Star received an enthusiastic welcome from fans when he stepped into the batter’s box in the first inning, with portions of the small crowd rising to their feet. Though he flew out to center field, his deep drive allowed Bo Bichette to advance from second to third base, setting up the game’s first run when Bichette came home on Lindor’s two-out infield hit.

Soto’s night included a lineout to right field in the third inning, a walk in the fifth, and a single in the eighth before being caught stealing while attempting to take second base.

“I don’t think it’s going to be any pressure,” Soto said before the game. “I’m just going to be myself and be out there, definitely help as much as I can to get out of this and put the team in the right spot again.”

The slugger has now recorded hits in all nine games he’s appeared in this season. He also made history by becoming the first major league player to draw 900 walks before his 28th birthday.

“It makes a big difference just to add his name in the lineup. But also, I said it yesterday: You can’t put all the pressure on him,” Mendoza said. “It’s going to take all of us to get out of this. It’s not just Juan Soto.”

To make room on the roster, the Mets sent third-string catcher Hayden Senger to Triple-A Syracuse after Tuesday’s 5-3 defeat to Minnesota.

Despite starting the year with baseball’s highest opening-day payroll at $352.2 million, the Mets entered Wednesday with the worst record in the majors at 8-16. During their losing streak, which began April 8 with a 7-2 loss to Arizona, New York was outscored 67-22 while managing just a .194 batting average and .284 slugging percentage. The 12-game skid marked their longest since August 2002.

“I feel like we have a great lineup. We have guys who are going through tough times right now. They can’t get a hit or anything, and it’s part of it. We all go through that stuff,” Soto said. “But it’s tough when kind of like most of the lineup is going through it. It makes it a little hard to win games like that.”

The team plans to ease Soto back into action gradually. He’s expected to play outfield Thursday night, after which the organization will “reassess,” according to Mendoza. The six-time Silver Slugger Award winner will receive complete rest days as needed going forward.

“We need to be flexible and we have to stay on top of things with him,” Mendoza explained. “If we see that there’s a couple of games, two or three games where he does a lot of running on base, going first to third, first to home, second to home, in the outfield, then we’ll have to adjust. And hopefully that’s the case. That means he’s on base and we’re scoring a lot of runs. So, yeah, I think it’s fluid. But at the same time we just have to be smart with him.”

Soto’s injury occurred during a 10-3 victory over San Francisco on April 3, when he hurt himself running from first to third on Bichette’s RBI single. The Mets managed to win their next three contests without him before falling into their lengthy slump.

“It’s a little uncomfortable when you see it from the outside,” Soto said. “It’s just a tough time, but we’re going to get out of it.”

The outfielder is in year two of his record-breaking $765 million, 15-year deal signed as a free agent in December 2024. Before his injury, he was hitting .355 with one home run and five RBIs.

Rather than completing a minor league rehabilitation assignment, Soto prepared for his return through workouts at Citi Field while the team was traveling last week.

“Felt like he got what he needed here,” Mendoza said. “Plenty of at-bats. We brought a lot of pitchers in here. We were able to simulate a lot of the things that you do on a rehab assignment.”

Both Soto and Mendoza emphasized that the player is completely healthy and did not return ahead of schedule. This marked Soto’s first injured list stint since 2021 with Washington, when a strained left shoulder kept him out from April 20 through May 3.

PHOENIX — Arizona Diamondbacks relief pitcher Paul Sewald acknowledges that Major League Baseball’s new Automated Ball-Strike technology should theoretically provide equal treatment to hitters and pitchers.

However, in reality, he believes one group is getting the upper hand.

And it’s not the players on the mound.

“It’s what (MLB) wanted — people on base,” Sewald explained. “Tough time to be a pitcher. Balls flying everywhere, you’ve got a smaller strike zone. But you just go out there and do the best you can.”

Is Sewald’s assessment accurate? The statistics suggest the strike zone has indeed gotten tighter, though the data tells a complex story.

Base on balls have surged to levels approaching historical records during the season’s opening month. While there’s no definitive proof that the ABS system caused this increase, Diamondbacks catcher James McCann posed a logical question: “Of course it is. What other rules have changed?”

Through Wednesday’s contests, MLB hitters have walked in 9.8% of their plate appearances this season, potentially marking the highest percentage since 1950. This figure typically decreases as the season advances, since pitchers generally struggle with command during cold weather conditions in northern markets throughout March and April.

However, even accounting for seasonal factors, walks have increased dramatically compared to last year.

The strike zone modification was anticipated. MLB needed to redefine the zone’s parameters to work with automated umpiring. The previous Official Baseball Rules described a zone extending from the batter’s torso midpoint down to the “hollow beneath the kneecap.” The updated zone uses more exact measurements, beginning at 27% of a hitter’s standing height and extending to 53.5%. The ABS zone measures 17 inches across, matching home plate’s width, with all pitches evaluated at the plate’s center point.

The walk increase doesn’t completely reveal who’s gaining advantages in the ABS era. MLB’s overall batting average has dropped slightly to .240 through Wednesday, marginally below last year’s .242 mark during March and April games. This challenges Sewald’s assertion about “balls flying everywhere.”

The contrasting viewpoints are intriguing as MLB players adapt to the new regulations and statistics.

New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger isn’t reading too much into the early statistics. He noted that batters and pitchers constantly engage in strategic battles, and balance will eventually emerge.

“I think there’s always an adjustment to something new,” the 2019 National League MVP explained. “It’s also such a short sample size. It’s (20-25) games into the season, so numbers skyrocket both ways early on.”

McCann remains unconvinced. The experienced catcher believes a more restrictive strike zone will naturally result in additional walks.

“I think it’s tighter in general,” McCann stated. “Umpires are getting instant feedback on what’s a strike or a ball and everything’s becoming much more uniform. That’s what the guys who had used it in the minor leagues told me was going to happen before the season started, and they were exactly right.”

Chicago Cubs star infielder Nico Hoerner offered a somewhat different perspective, suggesting that hitters might currently benefit by avoiding pitches at the strike zone’s upper edge, though all adaptations eventually reach their limits.

“Getting on base has been emphasized for a long time,” Hoerner noted. “Walking is incredibly valuable as a hitter. A lot of pitchers — their approach is to avoid slug at all cost. Sometimes that involves throwing less strikes. But I’m sure there will be a back and forth, just like every trend in baseball.”

Recent history indicates MLB rule modifications can create lasting impacts. Stolen bases increased nearly 50% from 2022 to 2023 following a rules package that introduced a pitch clock and restricted pitcher pickoff attempts.

Base stealing has remained elevated in subsequent seasons, even after teams adapted to the new regulations.

When MLB lowered the pitcher’s mound in 1969, walk rates jumped from 7.6% to 9.1%. The rate declined somewhat afterward but didn’t drop below 8% again until 2013.

Miami Marlins manager Clayton McCullough views the ABS situation differently. He’s monitoring the trends but doesn’t expect the elevated walk rate to persist.

The upcoming five months will provide answers.

“I think that we’ll get to a point where it gets close and stabilizes to what it’s been, where relievers are walking around 10%. Starters are going to be more around 8%,” McCullough predicted. “My hypothesis sitting here now early in the year is that by the time the season ends, (walk rates) will look very much like they have, say the last several seasons.”

PITTSBURGH — The speculation ends tonight as the real NFL Draft gets underway in Pittsburgh.

Over the next three days, 257 college football players will achieve their lifelong goal when their names are announced, marking the end of years filled with dedication and personal sacrifice.

Thursday evening’s opening round begins when NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell steps onto the stage at the main theater near Acrisure Stadium to reveal the Las Vegas Raiders’ choice for the top selection. Fernando Mendoza, who won the Heisman Trophy while leading Indiana to their first national championship, is widely expected to be Las Vegas’s pick. It would be shocking if he ends up anywhere else.

The composed and refined Mendoza will have the opportunity to develop under Kirk Cousins while working with part-owner Tom Brady, the legendary seven-time Super Bowl winner who is eager to share his knowledge.

Though 16 other prospects will participate in the celebration and get their moment to embrace Goodell on stage, Mendoza is staying home in Miami with his loved ones. His mother, Elsa Mendoza, battles multiple sclerosis, making travel challenging for her.

“I’ve done so much traveling this year, it’s a lot easier for my mom and her health is at the forefront,” Mendoza said. “We need to hop on a plane the next day for whatever team drafts me and to be there with the village that’s poured into me — friends, family, coaches, mentors — to be there with all of them and to share the start of this NFL journey, it’s going to create the best memory for our family.”

Mendoza joins four other top picks from recent in-person drafts who chose family celebrations over the public ceremony — Travon Walker (2022), Trevor Lawrence (2021), Baker Mayfield (2018) and Myles Garrett (2017). The 2020 draft was conducted remotely due to the pandemic.

The major uncertainty surrounds the New York Jets’ second overall selection. The choice likely comes down to Ohio State’s Arvell Reese or Texas Tech’s David Bailey, both considered elite pass rushers. However, the Jets could surprise everyone with an unexpected pick.

Following Mendoza’s selection, quarterback picks may become scarce. Alabama’s Ty Simpson appears to be the next signal-caller in line. He’s attending the draft festivities but may need to wait until Friday’s second round to hear his name.

“I can’t control how people think,” Simpson said Wednesday. “All I can control is how I play and how much of a player I can be so wherever I go, whoever gets me, I’m gonna make sure that’s what I do wherever that is.”

This year’s opening round should move more quickly than previous years since teams now have eight minutes between selections instead of the previous 10-minute window.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Cricket, which ranks as the world’s second most popular sport, hasn’t been featured in Olympic competition for 126 years. That lengthy absence will end when the 2028 Games arrive.

Construction workers broke ground Wednesday in Pomona, located on the eastern side of Los Angeles County, beginning work on a major cricket facility with seating for more than 10,000 spectators. The venue will host both men’s and women’s Olympic competition.

The facility is being constructed within the Fairplex fairgrounds and will become the headquarters for the Los Angeles Knight Riders, a Major League Cricket franchise owned by Knight Riders Sports, based in Mumbai. Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan serves as co-leader of the organization.

The ceremonial start featured a “bhumi pujan,” a traditional Hindu ceremony typically performed when construction begins, designed to request divine approval and forgiveness for disrupting the earth.

Cricket has become deeply embedded within America’s immigrant communities worldwide, especially those from South Asia, where the sport commands passionate devotion. Across the United States, cricket enthusiasts, instructors and athletes consider having a purpose-built cricket facility in a significant sports market like Southern California to be a major achievement.

Financial backers anticipate that excitement from professional cricket matches in the area will build momentum leading up to the Olympics, introducing the sport to mainstream American sports fans. Many believe this increased exposure will create valuable opportunities for American-born cricket players to develop their skills.

Venky Mysore, who leads Knight Riders Sports as CEO, explained that creating the Knight Riders Cricket Field represents only the initial phase of attracting typical American sports fans. Mysore expressed confidence in cricket’s business prospects.

“People who watch the Olympics are not necessarily cricket fans,” Mysore explained. “When cricket becomes an Olympic sport, that takes interest and awareness to the next level.”

Knight Riders Sports manages several franchises across the globe — throughout India, the Caribbean region and the United Arab Emirates. However, the Pomona facility marks their first ground-up stadium construction project, according to Mysore. Currently, just three international-standard cricket venues exist in America — located in Texas, Florida and North Carolina. The sport also takes place at various multi-use facilities including the Oakland Coliseum.

Peter Della Penna, who has reported on American cricket for twenty years, notes this marks the first occasion an international cricket competition in America will feature a purpose-built facility. During 2024, organizers constructed a high-capacity temporary stadium specifically for the T20 World Cup in New York, though it was removed following the tournament.

However, hosting cricket matches elsewhere during the LA Olympics would be less than optimal, he explained.

“Cricket players would want to be in the Olympic Village, walk shoulder to shoulder with U.S. track and field athletes, swimmers and basketball players,” he explained. “Cricketers in America have not had such prominence and U.S. cricket really needs that.”

Cricket boasts an extensive and fascinating American heritage. The inaugural international cricket contest occurred between America and Canada in 1844 at Manhattan’s St. George’s Cricket Club in New York. Canada defeated America by a narrow margin before thousands of onlookers, with substantial betting surrounding the match.

Debjit Lahiri, a cricket scholar from Wisconsin, noted that Olympic cricket last appeared in 1900 in Paris, where the Summer Olympics served as a disorganized supplement to the World’s Fair, including competitions like live pigeon shooting. Cricket failed to appear in the 1904 Olympic Games in St. Louis.

Los Angeles cricket started around 1900 through local organizations. It achieved recognition during the 1930s when British expatriate actors established the Hollywood Cricket Club, attracting celebrities including Errol Flynn, Laurence Olivier, Cary Grant and Boris Karloff. The organization’s initial location at Griffith Park was demolished to construct an equestrian facility for the 1984 Olympics. It relocated to Woodley Park in the San Fernando Valley, where numerous ambitious cricketers developed their skills, including Ayan Desai, a 22-year-old emerging talent hoping to represent Team USA in 2028.

Desai, whose family operates a motel close to the upcoming Knight Riders facility, expressed excitement about having a world-class cricket venue practically next door.

“To play the Olympics is special, but to do it in front of your home crowd, in your home city, that would be amazing,” he stated.

Desai, who bowls left-arm fast deliveries, competes for the Seattle Orcas professional team and has participated in four international matches representing the American national squad.

“This is what we’ve needed to grow cricket in Los Angeles,” he stated.

Reggie Benjamin, originally from Antigua and a former American cricketer who now coaches in Los Angeles, maintains doubts about the sport’s prospects.

“I’m happy to see cricket get an opportunity to showcase itself here,” he stated. “But if you can’t get average Americans to come to a game and sit in the stands for three hours, or if you can’t get American kids to play cricket, the game is not going to grow.”

Benjamin expressed frustration seeing domestic talent and community-level programs overlooked while international players are recruited for professional teams and the national squad. He also highlighted management problems that have plagued American cricket and created uncertainty about cricket’s Olympic inclusion in 2028.

These issues reached a crisis point last year when USA Cricket, the nonprofit responsible for developing American cricket, sought federal bankruptcy protection after terminating its agreement with American Cricket Enterprises, the organization behind Major League Cricket. Subsequently, the International Cricket Council, cricket’s global governing body, has temporarily managed the American national cricket team. ACE has also filed legal action claiming improper contract termination.

Nevertheless, major investors like Mysore remain hopeful that USA Cricket and Major League Cricket can establish a collaborative partnership. The organizations benefit each other, he noted. National team selectors frequently recruit from professional league rosters.

“A strong national team is important because it keeps interest alive in the sport,” he stated.

Walter Marquez, who serves as Fairplex CEO, believes cricket has a bright future. As a devoted baseball enthusiast, Marquez has recently been studying cricket extensively. He now understands terminology like “yorker” and recognizes genuine potential for the sport’s expansion.

“For those who don’t know cricket, given an opportunity, they will learn what an exciting game it is, especially the T20 format,” stated Marquez, referencing the shortened version that will be used in the 2028 Olympics.

“We like home runs. We love the long ball. Cricket has a lot of those. American sports fans just don’t know they’re cricket fans yet.”

The New York Mets finally broke through their nightmare losing streak Wednesday night, defeating the Minnesota Twins 3-2 at home to end a devastating 12-game slide that had plagued the team for weeks.

Mark Vientos provided the heroics in the eighth inning, driving in the decisive run with a clutch single that made up for his earlier mistake on the basepaths. The victory marked the Mets’ first win since their skid began, representing their longest stretch of losses since they dropped 12 straight games between August 10-23 in 2002.

However, the breakthrough win came with a significant concern as All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor exited the game due to tightness in his left calf. The injury occurred after Lindor scored from first base on Francisco Alvarez’s double during the fourth inning. Prior to his departure, Lindor had been productive at the plate, going 2-for-2 with an RBI infield single in the opening frame.

The timing of Lindor’s injury is particularly troubling for New York, as it happened on the same evening that Juan Soto made his return from a 15-game absence caused by his own right calf strain. Ironically, the Mets had won their first three contests following Soto’s April 3 injury before their lengthy losing streak commenced.

Minnesota managed to tie the game twice during the contest. Victor Caratini brought the Twins even with a sacrifice fly in the fourth inning, while Byron Buxton knotted things up again with a solo home run in the sixth. The loss continued Minnesota’s recent struggles, as they have now dropped five of their last six games.

In other major league action, the Chicago Cubs extended their hot streak to eight consecutive victories by defeating the visiting Philadelphia Phillies 7-2. Pete Crow-Armstrong led the offensive charge with three hits and two RBIs, while Seiya Suzuki contributed a two-run homer. The loss extended Philadelphia’s misery to eight straight defeats, their longest skid since September 2018.

The Arizona Diamondbacks outlasted the San Diego Padres 11-7 in Phoenix, with Ildemaro Vargas powering the offense with two home runs and a career-high five RBIs. Meanwhile, Munetaka Murakami continued his incredible power display by homering for the fifth consecutive game, becoming the fastest player in White Sox history to reach 10 home runs in just 24 games.

The Los Angeles Angels snapped their own four-game losing streak with a 7-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. Jose Soriano continued his remarkable season start, extending his scoreless innings streak to 24 2/3 while maintaining a microscopic 0.24 ERA through his first six starts.

In American League East action, the New York Yankees dominated the Boston Red Sox 4-1 behind Amed Rosario’s four RBIs in just two plate appearances and Max Fried’s eight shutout innings. The Yankees nearly recorded their third straight shutout before allowing a ninth-inning run.

The Seattle Mariners walked off against the Oakland Athletics 5-4 when Josh Naylor delivered a two-out RBI single in the ninth inning. The victory salvaged the series finale after the A’s had tied the game moments earlier on Nick Kurtz’s home run.

Other notable results included the Houston Astros defeating Cleveland 2-0, the San Francisco Giants shutting out the Los Angeles Dodgers 3-0 despite six strong innings from Shohei Ohtani, and the Atlanta Braves rallying past Washington 8-6 behind Michael Harris II’s two-homer performance.

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel will be absent from Saturday’s final round of the NFL Draft as he enters counseling following the recent emergence of photographs showing him with veteran NFL reporter Dianna Russini at a resort in Arizona.

Speaking Wednesday evening through ESPN, Vrabel explained his decision: “As I said the other day, I promised my family, this organization and this team that I was going to give them the best version of me that I can possibly give them. In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend. This is something that I have given a lot of thought to and is something I would advise a player to do if I was counseling them.”

Vrabel continued: “I have always wanted to lead by example, and I believe this is what I have to do to be the best husband, father and coach that I possibly can be. This is not an easy thing for me to admit, but it is one that I know will make me a better person. I appreciate the support that everyone has given me and promise a stronger resolve as a result.”

The images showing Vrabel and Russini together at a Sedona resort were captured prior to the league’s annual meetings that commenced in Phoenix on March 29, according to the New York Post, which released the photographs earlier this month.

League officials confirmed last weekend that the NFL will not launch an investigation into Vrabel’s conduct.

On Tuesday, Vrabel broke his silence on the situation for the first time, telling media members he has engaged in “difficult conversations with people I care about.”

Both Vrabel and Russini, who are married to other people, issued written responses to the Post following the story’s publication, minimizing the significance of what the photographs showed. However, Russini stepped down from her position at The Athletic within a week after the Post’s report triggered an internal review at the sports publication owned by The New York Times.

Vrabel revealed he discussed the matter with his players on Monday when they returned for voluntary workouts. Two Patriots players had been scheduled for media availability on Tuesday, but Vrabel chose to address reporters first. He also expressed his desire to prevent the controversy surrounding the Post photographs from overshadowing the NFL draft, which kicks off Thursday.

PHOENIX — Japanese first baseman Munetaka Murakami of the Chicago White Sox has reached a remarkable milestone, matching a Major League Baseball rookie record by hitting home runs in five consecutive games during their matchup against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Murakami launched a towering 451-foot blast to right-center field for his 10th home run of the season, joining an exclusive group of just 13 rookies in baseball history to accomplish this rare feat, according to MLB.com records. The impressive streak also matches the Chicago White Sox franchise record, previously achieved by several players including A.J. Pierzynski in 2012, Paul Konerko in 2011, Carlos Lee in 2003, Frank Thomas twice in 1994, Ron Kittle in 1983, and Greg Luzinski in 1983.

The rookie’s two-run blast occurred in the seventh inning off Arizona reliever Ryan Thompson, helping narrow the Diamondbacks’ advantage to 10-7. With 10 home runs this season, Murakami trails only Houston’s Yordan Alvarez, who leads the majors with 11 homers.

Perhaps most remarkably, Murakami’s 10 home runs through his first 24 major league games represent the most ever hit by a Japanese-born player in that span, with eight of those coming during road games.

DETROIT — With franchise legends Ben Wallace and Rick Mahorn looking on like proud family members, the Detroit Pistons delivered a punishing defensive performance to defeat the Orlando Magic 98-83, evening their first-round playoff series at one game each.

“I’m sure they appreciated it,” said Pistons forward Isaiah Stewart about the former players witnessing the victory.

Wallace, who earned four NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards, and Mahorn, a key member of the notorious Bad Boys teams, were familiar with the type of physical, grinding basketball Detroit displayed Wednesday evening.

Stewart contributed two blocked shots, including a crucial rejection that prevented Paolo Banchero from completing a dunk attempt.

“I’m willing to lay my body on the line to make those plays for the energy,” Stewart explained.

The top-seeded Pistons limited eighth-seeded Orlando to 33% field goal shooting while forcing season-low totals in both points and made field goals. Detroit generated 19 turnovers and swatted away 11 shots.

“When we play defense at the level we’re capable of, it triggers everything for us,” explained Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. “We can be an elite defensive team, a disruptive defense. It’s Pistons basketball. That’s what it looks like.

“We had one off night and it came at a bad time.”

During Game 1, Detroit struggled out of the gate in both halves while allowing Orlando to connect on nearly 50% of their field goal attempts. All five Magic starters reached double figures with at least 16 points in their 112-101 victory.

The roles reversed in Game 2, with Detroit taking the aggressive approach from the opening tip. The Pistons rejected seven shots during the first quarter alone, matching a franchise playoff record for blocks in a single period.

During the third quarter, Detroit exploded with a 30-3 scoring run while outpacing Orlando 38-16 for the period.

The Pistons cruised through the final quarter to secure their first playoff victory at Little Caesars Arena. The triumph snapped an NBA-record 11-game home playoff losing streak that stretched back to 2008, when the team still played at The Palace of Auburn Hills.

“Obviously, we’ve heard it,” said Tobias Harris, who contributed 16 points along with two blocks and two steals.

Orlando’s coaching staff grudgingly acknowledged Detroit’s defensive effort.

“They did a heck of a job of reaching, grabbing and holding,” said Magic coach Jamahl Mosley. “They protected that paint and our ability to get downhill.”

Jalen Suggs led Orlando with 19 points while Banchero added 18. The duo combined to shoot just 14-of-35 from the field.

“They met us at the rim a few times, and they brought the intensity on defense,” Banchero noted. “But we got good looks, and nobody really had a great night shooting the ball.”

SAN FRANCISCO — Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts says he’s prioritizing Shohei Ohtani’s long-term health by potentially resting the superstar from batting duties during certain pitching appearances.

The strategy could vary from game to game based on how the dual-threat player feels physically, Roberts explained.

In some contests, this approach might involve Ohtani taking the mound while sitting out his designated hitter role — a flexibility Roberts wants to maintain moving forward.

Ohtani took his fourth pitching turn Wednesday evening versus the San Francisco Giants. Seven days prior, Roberts benched him from the batting order while he pitched — his first time since 2021 not hitting on a day he started, due to lingering soreness from being struck by a pitch.

The 31-year-old entered the game batting .271 with five homers and 11 RBIs across 85 plate appearances. On the pitching side, he had surrendered only one earned run through 18 innings in 2026, posting a 0.50 ERA and 2-0 record while giving up 10 hits with 18 strikeouts and six walks.

Ohtani also carried a career-high 53-game on-base streak, matching Shawn Green for second place in franchise history. Duke Snider holds the Dodgers record with 58 consecutive games from May 13-July 11, 1954. Ohtani’s run represents the longest active streak in baseball since Orlando Cabrera reached base in 63 straight games from April 25-July 6, 2006.

“I think if you look at the overall numbers it’s certainly something. I still feel really good about putting his name in the lineup,” Roberts said. “I know the last start I chose not to have him hit and just pitch. I am open to it. We’ll see. It’s something that we’ve certainly flagged, and also you have to look at what’s the option. In years past or last year, you’ve got to kind of weigh, who’s a different option?”

Catcher Dalton Rushing has emerged as a reliable designated hitter alternative, batting .414 with seven home runs and 13 RBIs.

The back-to-back World Series champions had struggled recently, losing three of their previous four games after falling 3-1 in Tuesday’s series opener against San Francisco.

During Wednesday’s pre-game conversation, Roberts found the four-time MVP — including back-to-back National League MVP winner — to be “really focused.”

“He wants to reset things, to go out there and pitch well and give us a chance to win tonight,” Roberts said.

Roberts hadn’t determined whether Ohtani would participate in Thursday’s series finale. He mentioned having no concerns about giving Ohtani five at-bats on pitching days but would consider moving him lower in the batting order when appropriate.

“I think everything should be on the table,” Roberts said.

New York Mets star shortstop Francisco Lindor was forced to leave Wednesday evening’s matchup with the Minnesota Twins after experiencing tightness in his left calf muscle, cutting his night short after just four innings of play.

The injury became apparent when Lindor reached first base on a hit and then attempted to circle the bases on teammate Francisco Alvarez’s two-base hit. Observers noted that Lindor appeared to be moving slower than usual as he made his way around the base paths.

The 32-year-old veteran showed visible signs of discomfort as he approached home plate, wincing in pain while navigating around third base. After sliding safely into home ahead of catcher Victor Caratini’s attempted tag – a play that put New York ahead 2-1 – Lindor stayed down on the ground momentarily before being helped up.

The timing of Lindor’s injury coincides with teammate Juan Soto’s return to action after missing 15 games with his own calf strain in his right leg. The Mets had initially won three consecutive games following Soto’s April 3rd injury before entering their current 12-game losing skid.

This marks a rare injury concern for Lindor, who has appeared in all but 15 games since his last stint on the injured list three years ago in 2021, when a strained right oblique muscle kept him sidelined for more than five weeks.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Anthony Edwards delivered the star-level performance Minnesota desperately needed, helping the Timberwolves even their heated first-round playoff battle with Denver after capturing Game 2 on the road.

Edwards posted 30 points and grabbed 10 rebounds while adding two blocks and providing vocal leadership for his squad. Minnesota head coach Chris Finch praised Edwards’ calming presence even after a disappointing showing in the series opener.

“He was calm and gave confidence to the guys,” Finch said, reflecting on the series opener after practice on Wednesday. “When we were down early and big, he was really into them with the right messages, to stay calm but to do the things that were asked to be done — put a little bit more work in, be a little smarter with the fouling, all that kind of stuff. So I thought that was really key.”

The four-time All-Star has been crucial in motivating Rudy Gobert to excel defensively against Denver’s star center Nikola Jokic. Edwards has also shown his commitment by competing despite knee issues that kept him out of 11 of the final 13 regular season contests.

“It definitely uplifts me. I feel like I can’t let him down. If he’s out there battling, then there’s no excuse why I can’t give my best and make the extra effort plays and just go out there and compete at the highest level,” teammate Julius Randle said.

Minnesota will require Edwards to maintain this level of intensity across all aspects of the game to defeat their biggest rival three more times and advance to the next round.

Denver will certainly bring their own determination when they visit Minnesota for Thursday’s Game 3 between these evenly matched clubs. Thursday’s other Game 3 matchups feature New York traveling to Atlanta and Cleveland visiting Toronto.

The recent history between Minnesota and Denver shows just how competitive this rivalry has become, with each team claiming 15 victories in their past 30 encounters across regular season and playoff action over the last four seasons.

“Who doesn’t love a big game? Who doesn’t want to wake up for a game with a lot of excitement, a lot of back and forth in it?” Timberwolves reserve Naz Reid said.

Game Details: Game 3, 7 p.m. EDT (Prime Video)

Series Status: Tied 1-1.

Betting Line: Nuggets by 2 1/2.

Key Storylines: The intensity between these division foes continues to escalate in their third playoff meeting in four years, with both games featuring physical play and heated moments. Minnesota gained valuable momentum by overcoming a 19-point early deficit to claim a 119-114 victory in Game 2. Edwards now has six 30-point performances against Denver across 14 playoff games, while guard Donte DiVincenzo has been exceptional with a game-high plus-20 rating and 16 points in the latest win. DiVincenzo has connected on 10 of 16 three-point attempts through two games. Denver dismissed postgame comments from Minnesota’s Jaden McDaniels, who suggested the Timberwolves should continue attacking Denver directly because they’re “all bad defenders.”

The New York Mets faced another injury setback Wednesday evening when All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor departed their matchup with the Minnesota Twins due to left calf tightness.

The timing proved particularly cruel for the struggling franchise, as Lindor’s departure came on the same day outfielder Juan Soto returned from a similar calf injury that had kept him sidelined.

Lindor’s injury became apparent during the fourth inning when he appeared to struggle while running the bases. After reaching first base, he scored on Francisco Alvarez’s double to right-center field but showed clear signs of discomfort as he rounded third base and slid home feet-first.

The veteran infielder winced noticeably during the play and briefly remained on the ground after successfully beating the throw to home plate. He subsequently left the field with a team trainer and did not return to action.

Brett Baty took Lindor’s spot in the batting order, moving to third base while Bo Bichette shifted from third to shortstop when the Mets took the field in the fifth inning.

Before his exit, Lindor had contributed offensively by driving in a run with an infield single in the opening frame. He also showcased his defensive skills early in the contest with an impressive leaping catch at shortstop.

The injury comes at a particularly difficult time for New York, which entered the game mired in a 12-game losing streak. Soto had just been activated from the 10-day injured list earlier Wednesday after missing time with a right calf strain suffered on April 3 during a game in San Francisco.

English golfer Matt Fitzpatrick has captured widespread public interest heading into next month’s PGA Championship following his climb to a career-high No. 3 position in the Official World Golf Ranking.

The 31-year-old secured a dramatic playoff victory over top-ranked Scottie Scheffler at Sunday’s RBC Heritage tournament, capping off an impressive stretch that included a second-place finish at The Players Championship, a victory at the Valspar Championship, and an 18th-place showing at the Masters.

Despite stumbling with a bogey on the final regulation hole Sunday that forced a playoff with Scheffler, Fitzpatrick recovered brilliantly by hitting a 4-iron approach shot through strong winds to within 13 feet of the pin, then sinking the birdie putt to claim victory on the first playoff hole.

The strong performance has dramatically shifted betting markets, with Fitzpatrick’s PGA Championship odds improving from 35/1 to 20/1 according to Oddschecker. The 2022 U.S. Open winner has attracted the most wagering action this week, drawing 23% of all PGA Championship winner bets placed since his Harbor Town triumph.

Cameron Young ranks as the second-most popular betting choice this week, capturing 6% of total wagers alongside Ludvig Aberg, Sam Burns, and Justin Rose. Young previously defeated Fitzpatrick at The Players Championship.

Despite the recent attention on other players, Scheffler remains the tournament favorite with 7/2 odds, translating to a 22% probability of victory. He has drawn 5% of this week’s betting action, matching the percentage for LIV Golf’s Jon Rahm.

Masters winner Rory McIlroy holds the second-best pre-tournament odds at 7/1, while Rahm sits at 12/1. Xander Schauffele and Bryson DeChambeau follow at 16/1, with both Fitzpatrick and Young positioned at 20/1.

Looking ahead to this week’s action, Fitzpatrick will team with his brother Alex as co-favorites for the Zurich Classic, the PGA Tour’s sole team competition. The Fitzpatrick brothers share 11/1 odds with the pairing of Brooks Koepka and Shane Lowry.

The New York Jets remain tight-lipped about their plans for the second overall selection in Thursday night’s NFL draft.

However, major sportsbooks believe they’re detecting a pattern: David Bailey, the pass rusher from Texas A&M, has overtaken Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese as the betting favorite to be chosen right after the Las Vegas Raiders select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first pick.

Just one day earlier, BetMGM had Reese listed at -400 odds to be the second pick, while Bailey was available at +200. At that point, Bailey led in total number of bets placed at 21.2%, while Reese attracted the most money wagered at 37.2%. However, by Wednesday evening, Bailey had become the favorite at -145 odds, with Reese dropping significantly to +110.

DraftKings similarly shows Bailey at -150 to be selected second overall, Reese at +115, and Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love far behind at +8000.

This dramatic shift in betting patterns happened even though the Jets canceled Bailey’s scheduled “top 30” visit to their facility. Jets head coach Aaron Glenn minimized the significance of not hosting Bailey for a pre-draft workout, and Bailey echoed that sentiment Wednesday, explaining he has maintained extensive communication with team leadership and recently connected with them via FaceTime.

Another consideration remains whether the Jets will actually use that second pick.

New York holds five selections among the first 103 picks and might choose to trade down from either the No. 2 or No. 16 positions Thursday evening. The team also possesses two second-round picks for Friday night.

Should the Jets remain at No. 2, the choice between Bailey and Reese has generated significant pre-draft discussion.

Field Level Media ranks the 6-foot-4, 243-pound Reese as the sixth-best prospect in the 2026 draft class, with the 6-3, 247-pound Bailey following closely at seventh.

Bailey shared the NCAA lead with 14.5 sacks this past season and has earned recognition as an exceptional athlete who demonstrates explosive first-step quickness. Analysts have drawn comparisons between Bailey and Denver Broncos pass rusher Nik Bonitto, who faced similar concerns about his run-stopping ability when he left Oklahoma before the 2022 draft.

Reese offers the ability to anchor the edge in a 3-4 defensive scheme or provide interior pressure in a 4-3 alignment. He also demonstrates coverage skills against tight ends and brings an appealing mix of physical tools and positional flexibility. However, comparisons to former pass rusher Barkevious Mingo, who failed to meet pre-draft expectations during his career, may have NFL decision-makers in the Jets’ position leaning toward Bailey instead.

The Naval Academy baseball team secured a decisive 7-3 victory over the Hawks in recent college baseball action, despite an outstanding individual performance from the visiting team.

Hawks player Brown delivered his best offensive showing of the season, collecting four hits throughout the contest. However, his stellar performance at the plate wasn’t enough to prevent his team from falling to the Midshipmen.

The game saw Navy control the scoreboard for most of the matchup, ultimately winning by a four-run margin. While Brown’s season-high hitting display provided a bright spot for the Hawks, they were unable to generate enough offensive support to match the Midshipmen’s scoring output.

The loss adds another game to the Hawks’ record as they continue their season, while Navy extends their winning ways with the home victory.

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – The Salisbury University women’s tennis team faced a challenging return to competition Wednesday, suffering a shutout defeat against the nationally-ranked Mary Washington Eagles.

After a lengthy 20-day break from competition, the Sea Gulls were unable to find their rhythm against the 25th-ranked Eagles, falling 7-0 at Mary Washington’s Hegmann Family Courts.

The extended layoff appeared to impact Salisbury’s performance as they struggled to match the level of play from their highly-ranked opponents throughout the afternoon match.

San Antonio Spurs guard Keldon Johnson has earned recognition as the NBA’s premier reserve player this season.

The versatile guard appeared in every contest for San Antonio, coming off the bench in all 82 games and joining an exclusive group as just the second NBA player in ten years to accomplish this feat. Johnson also made franchise history by becoming the first Spurs reserve to reach 1,000 points in a single season. Throughout the campaign, San Antonio consistently promoted him as the league’s top bench player.

NBA voters validated that assessment Wednesday evening when Johnson was named Sixth Man of the Year, making him only the second Spurs player to claim this honor alongside Manu Ginobili, who won in 2008. The recognition marks Johnson’s first individual NBA accolade, adding to his gold medal from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics as part of Team USA.

“I started for a long time,” Johnson said on ESPN. “Now, it’s my time to come off the bench. I just continue to analyze the game, come off the bench, go in there and just do my thing.”

Johnson defeated Miami’s Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Denver’s Tim Hardaway Jr. for the award. Jaquez paced all bench players in scoring and double-figure scoring performances for Miami, while Hardaway connected on a reserve-leading 205 three-pointers and ranked fourth in scoring for Denver.

This marked Hardaway and Jaquez’s ninth-place tie in 2024 voting. Hardaway previously finished fifth in 2021, tenth in 2017, and tied for thirteenth during his 2014 rookie campaign.

The honor caps an extraordinary two-season stretch for Johnson, who has logged 159 games over the past two years exclusively as a reserve. No other NBA player has approached that total without making a single start during this timeframe.

“I wanted to be part of something special here in San Antonio,” Johnson said. “I knew that in order for me to really be the best for our team that coming off the bench was probably my best possibility. At first, it was tough. I had to (control) my ego and put the team first. After that, the sky was the limit.”

This represents the third postseason award announcement and San Antonio’s second honor, marking the first with genuine suspense regarding the winner.

Victor Wembanyama made history Monday as the first unanimous Defensive Player of the Year selection in San Antonio franchise history. Tuesday saw Oklahoma City’s reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander capture Clutch Player of the Year honors with 96 of 100 first-place votes.

Thursday will bring the Sportsmanship Award announcement, featuring division representatives Miami’s Bam Adebayo (Southeast), San Antonio’s Harrison Barnes (Southwest), Gilgeous-Alexander (Northwest), Golden State’s Al Horford (Pacific), Indiana’s T.J. McConnell (Central), and Boston’s Derrick White (Atlantic). Players vote for this award rather than the media panel that determines most other honors.

Friday’s Most Improved Player reveal will feature Atlanta’s Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Portland’s Deni Avdija, or Detroit’s Jalen Duren.

Additional awards awaiting announcement include Coach of the Year (Detroit’s J.B. Bickerstaff, San Antonio’s Mitch Johnson, or Boston’s Joe Mazzulla), Rookie of the Year (Philadelphia’s VJ Edgecombe, Dallas’ Cooper Flagg, or Charlotte’s Kon Knueppel), and MVP (Gilgeous-Alexander, Wembanyama, or Denver’s Nikola Jokic).

CLEVELAND — After Wednesday’s victory over Cleveland, a sparkling championship belt in boxing style hung over Yordan Alvarez’s locker room chair. Once again, he stood as Houston’s premier performer without question.

Currently, no player across baseball is performing at a higher level.

“To be honest with you,” Astros shortstop Carlos Correa stated, “2026 Yordan is the closest thing I’ve seen to Barry Bonds.”

That’s quite a statement.

Alvarez connected on his MLB-best 11th home run of the season, a two-run blast in the opening frame, helping the injury-plagued Astros secure a 2-0 victory over the Guardians and claim two games in the three-game series against last year’s AL Central titleholders.

Though Houston has struggled early this season, Alvarez has maintained exceptional form.

The powerful 6-foot-4 designated hitter tops all major leaguers in home runs, RBIs (26), hits (33), extra-base hits (19), total bases (74), on-base percentage (.466), slugging percentage (.779) and OPS (1.245).

Such dominance explains why Correa draws comparisons to the legendary Bonds.

“Aaron Judge has a 1.200 OPS, but Yordan has done it a different way,” Correa explained. “He’s not swinging and missing much. He’s not striking out a lot. He’s walking a lot, that’s what Barry did.

“Yordan is getting the intentional-walk treatment every time first base is open. I don’t see any other player in the league they do that for.”

In the series conclusion, Alvarez recorded three hits in four plate appearances, pushing his hitting streak to nine consecutive games and his on-base streak to 18 games. He has launched home runs in four of his last six contests, becoming one of the few reliable constants for manager Joe Espada.

“He stays within himself and he knows how important it is for him to do damage,” Espada commented. “He’s a presence and he’s carrying us right now.”

Following Correa’s leadoff double in the first inning against Tanner Bibee, Alvarez drove a curveball from the right-handed pitcher 422 feet beyond the right field fence, providing Houston with a 2-0 advantage that lasted the entire game.

Bibee failed to hit catcher Bo Naylor’s intended location, and Alvarez capitalized on the mistake.

“It was the right pitch in that spot if I threw it where Bo wanted me to throw it,” Bibee acknowledged. “It was supposed to be in the dirt, threw it up and that guy, as good as he is and how hot he is right now, it’s going to happen. Just can’t make the mistake.”

Alvarez recorded singles to right field in his following two plate appearances before being retired on a sharp ground ball to first base in the eighth inning that he believed was foul territory. Alvarez remained in the batter’s box, appearing shocked that he had been retired.

Such has been his season-long dominance.

“At some point you’re expecting him to get out because the game is supposed to be so hard,” Correa observed. “When he’s going that good, you’re like, OK he’s due to get out here. And he just keeps raking. It’s incredible. It’s so much fun.

“I haven’t missed one swing of his all year because he’s must-watch TV.”

Alvarez remains modest about his scorching start to the campaign. Following a 2023 season limited to just 48 games due to injuries, he’s not taking his current success for granted while also recognizing his exceptional performance.

“I just want to find a good pitch and connect on the pitch and things are turning out for me right now,” Alvarez said, who became just the second Astros player alongside Lance Berkman (2002) to hit 11 home runs in the season’s first 26 games. “I’m not surprised with my results. That’s why I work so hard. Every at-bat that I have, I go aggressive.”

The wealthy leader of global skiing’s top organization has secured an unexpected path to re-election after his home nations declined to support his campaign.

Johan Eliasch, who holds dual citizenship in Britain and Sweden, will compete for another term as president of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation with backing from Georgia, according to Wednesday’s candidate announcement from the organization’s headquarters in Oberhofen, Switzerland.

The revelation ended weeks of uncertainty about which country would sponsor Eliasch’s candidacy for the June 11 leadership vote. His situation became complicated when Britain’s snowsport federation chose to nominate its own chief executive, Victoria Gosling, while Swedish media outlets reported their national federation would not endorse Eliasch, who has faced criticism from various European skiing officials.

The billionaire businessman, who was born in Sweden and owns the Head equipment company that supplies skis to elite athletes like Lindsey Vonn, previously won the FIS leadership role in 2021 with British support. He also competed unsuccessfully for the International Olympic Committee presidency last year as a British representative, losing to Kirsty Coventry. Eliasch has served as an IOC member since 2022.

Federation rules mandate that presidential hopefuls must possess valid citizenship documents from their sponsoring nation.

Questions had swirled around where Eliasch would secure nomination support, and it remains unclear why Georgia has stepped forward as his sponsor country.

Four additional candidates will challenge Eliasch: Dexter Paine representing the United States, Anna Harboe Falkenberg from Denmark, and Alexander Ospelt of Liechtenstein.

An international review panel will evaluate all nominees before the federation distributes the final candidate roster to member organizations on May 20.

The decisive election meeting is scheduled for Belgrade, Serbia in June.

FRISCO, Texas — An unexpected visitor brightened the Dallas Cowboys’ final NFL draft preparations Wednesday when former President Bill Clinton made a surprise appearance at the team’s headquarters.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones was conducting his annual pre-draft media session when he spotted Clinton walking into the facility through the glass walls of the interview room.

The reunion between the two Arkansas natives created a memorable interruption as Jones nearly stumbled while rushing off the stage to greet his longtime friend. Clinton entered through a side entrance, drawing all attention to the impromptu meeting.

“He’s been a wonderful, not only president, but a friend over the years,” Jones told the gathered media. “And I’m really happy to have you here today.” Jones, who was born in Los Angeles but worked as an oil and gas entrepreneur in Arkansas before purchasing the Cowboys in 1989, has maintained his friendship with Clinton over the decades.

Clinton, flashing his signature smile, responded by saying, “Have a good draft day,” which led to both men sharing Arkansas football memories.

The media room features a photograph of Clinton welcoming the Cowboys to the White House after one of their 1990s Super Bowl championships, when Jones had recently departed Arkansas for Texas.

Jones recalled Clinton’s impressive memory from their first personal meeting: “And when I said hello to him on a personal basis, he listed, three-deep, every player … on the Arkansas Razorback national championship team. He was a young guy that was following the Hogs feverishly, mainly over the radio. So he’s a good man to have as a fan.”

The former president, who hails from Hope, Arkansas, and at 79 is four years Clinton’s junior, then demonstrated that sharp recall by quizzing Jones about his playing days.

“Tell ’em again the position you played,” Clinton prompted.

“Well, I was a guard. I was a pulling guard,” Jones replied.

“And how much did you weigh?” Clinton continued.

“About 185 pounds,” Jones answered.

Clinton then provided historical context: “And a couple of years before him we had a guard named Wayne Harris who weighed the same thing Jerry did, and he made first-team All-America. They were great guards, and it’s a different world now.”

When Jones mentioned he wouldn’t want to play pulling guard in today’s NFL, where offensive linemen typically exceed 300 pounds, Clinton quipped, “Yeah, you’d be the late Jerry Jones.”

Following their reunion, both Clinton and Jones departed, leaving executive vice president Stephen Jones, head coach Brian Schottenheimer, and scouting director Will McClay to continue the media session for another 25 minutes without the team’s typically omnipresent owner.

BOSTON (AP) — Buffalo’s inability to dominate Boston physically on the ice has become a secondary concern compared to their struggles capitalizing on power play opportunities when the Bruins commit penalties.

Through the opening two contests of their playoff matchup with Boston, the Sabres have failed to convert on all nine man-advantage situations, extending a troubling trend that saw them go scoreless on their final 22 power plays during the regular season’s closing seven games. The series stands even at one game apiece as action moves to Boston for Thursday evening’s third game.

“It’s always a concern, for sure,” Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff acknowledged, noting his team hasn’t celebrated a power-play goal since March. “I think we’ll have to tweak some things.”

Buffalo entered this series taking exception to comments from Bruins coach Marco Sturm about his team’s physical superiority. Tuesday’s contest featured multiple altercations and accumulated 94 combined penalty minutes, with neither squad backing down from the confrontation.

“It’s a seven-game series so you see those guys all the time and there’s game inside the game, obviously,” Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov explained. “Emotions are really high, everybody wants to win, everybody is competitive on the ice, so sometimes you just ended up in the scrums and the fights like that.”

Ruff hasn’t dismissed the possibility of making a goaltending switch after pulling Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen just 16 seconds into Game 2’s final period following the fourth goal against him — including one scored on a long dump-in from center ice. Relief goaltender Alex Lyon successfully turned away all seven shots he encountered afterward.

While both netminders split starting duties during the regular season, Luukkonen secured the primary role by posting a 12-2-1 record to close the campaign. Lyon missed the season’s final week due to an undisclosed lower-body ailment after compiling a 20-10-4 record.

Though Ruff declined to pin Game 2’s defeat solely on Luukkonen’s inconsistent performance, stating “we win together, we lose together,” he also noted that “(Lyon) may play next game.”

Buffalo’s slow starts have compounded their difficulties, falling behind 2-0 in the opener and 4-0 in Game 2, managing their first goals only in each contest’s final eight minutes. They mounted a successful 4-3 comeback in Game 1 but couldn’t overcome their deficit in the 4-2 Game 2 loss.

“It’s been two games. It’s nothing to freak out about, and we know that,” forward Zach Benson said. “And we know we’ve got to be better, and we will be.”

Game 3 is scheduled for Thursday at 7 p.m. ET on TNT.

In other playoff action, the Carolina Hurricanes hold a 2-0 series advantage over Ottawa, with the Senators showing strength in faceoff wins (60.7% through two games) and goaltending from Linus Ullmark. Carolina forward Logan Stankoven acknowledged their faceoff struggles, saying “Obviously our percentage isn’t great. I’ve got to try and keep winning as many draws and stay in the battle as much as possible.”

The Colorado Avalanche also lead their series 2-0 against Los Angeles, with the Kings remaining optimistic despite the deficit. “Play the same way we’re playing, just a little harder,” Kings forward Trevor Moore said. “Just try to take the positives and get to LA and play a good game.”

PITTSBURGH — For aspiring NFL players, the journey to draft day can seem never-ending. After years of dedication and weeks of intense evaluations, these young athletes face nerve-wracking days of uncertainty as they await the moment their names are announced.

That wait concludes this weekend as the 2026 draft arrives in Pittsburgh, a city that perfectly symbolizes the NFL’s premier offseason showcase.

Most visitors entering the Steel City navigate through western Pennsylvania’s rolling hills and suburban landscapes before descending into the Fort Pitt tunnel — 3,614 feet of darkness that reveals nothing about what awaits beyond. The journey typically involves heavy traffic regardless of the hour, puzzling even longtime residents.

Getting to downtown Pittsburgh, much like reaching the NFL, requires persistence. However, once you arrive, the payoff can be spectacular as the city unfolds before you, filled with potential — just like each draft candidate’s future.

Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, who hopes to join the exclusive group of running backs selected in the top 10 over recent years, was impressed during his visit this week.

“Nice views, nice views,” Love commented on Wednesday, just over a day before Thursday evening’s opening round. “When you came out of that little tunnel or whatever, I don’t know what the tunnel’s called, but you kind of just saw the whole city. So that view was really nice.”

Love and 16 other potential first-round selections will experience an even more meaningful sight: walking the red carpet at Point State Park before taking a brief ferry trip across the Allegheny River to Acrisure Stadium, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Their ultimate destination will be the draft stage for that career-defining embrace with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

“I’m ready to go somewhere where I can work, whether that’s the worst team, the best team, maybe a team in the middle,” Love stated. “Really doesn’t matter to me.”

Love’s destination remains uncertain. However, Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza’s path appears clear.

Everything suggests the Las Vegas Raiders will rush to select the Indiana quarterback with the top pick, though Mendoza won’t meet Goodell in Pittsburgh. The standout signal-caller chose to watch from home rather than participate in the draft’s grand spectacle.

The remainder of the first round remains unpredictable, though defensive players are expected to dominate, with edge rushers Arnell Reese from Ohio State and David Bailey from Texas Tech — both present in Pittsburgh — likely to turn professional as evening falls over Mount Washington.

When asked if his competitive nature drives him to want the first handshake with Goodell, Bailey revealed the blend of instinct and football intelligence that elevated his draft status.

“When you talk about competitiveness in that context, it’s like really nothing you can do,” Bailey explained. “Like I can’t go out there and do any special tricks or say anything that’s going to boost my draft stock. … I feel like it’s time to just sit back and enjoy.”

This marks the end of countless speculation cycles and mock drafts, allowing everyone to return to actual football. The process can be overwhelming.

Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson understands the situation.

While posing in underwear for scouts and performing various physical tests at the NFL combine might seem odd, Tyson accepts the process.

“(Teams) invest a lot of money, so they got to do the research,” Tyson observed. “They got to take every little thing into account. So I don’t blame them for it, to be honest.”

Host cities also must prepare extensively for draft weekend. For locations like Pittsburgh, hosting the draft serves as a prestigious alternative to Super Bowl hosting duties.

The NFL anticipates hundreds of thousands of fans will flood a city not known for abundant open spaces. Pittsburgh’s public schools switched to remote learning Thursday and Friday to reduce bus traffic, while many employers encouraged remote work instead of office attendance.

The draft has transformed dramatically since Pittsburgh last hosted in December 1947 at the Fort Pitt Hotel, then the Steelers’ headquarters. That 32-round event saw quarterback Harry Gilmer selected first overall by Washington, but no ceremonial jersey awaited him.

The 1947 draft received no television coverage and minimal attention. The landscape surrounding the draft has shifted enormously over eight decades.

Pittsburgh sees the draft as an opportunity to highlight the region’s rich football heritage. Nearly two dozen Hall of Famers originated from Western Pennsylvania. The Steelers pass six Lombardi Trophies daily on their way to work, and football at every level remains deeply embedded in local culture.

Wednesday morning featured Love and fellow prospects conducting a youth clinic after a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new turf field at Hazelwood Green Park, approximately one mile down the Monongahela River from the Steelers’ current training facility.

Steelers President Art Rooney II spent years looking out his window at the empty lot, wondering when development would come to an area being transformed by technology and education sectors.

Once the city secured draft hosting rights, progress accelerated rapidly. This reflects Pittsburgh’s broader evolution from the 20th century’s Steel City into today’s innovation center.

The draft will fulfill one dream while launching another for the 257 players selected by Saturday evening’s conclusion.

For the “City of Bridges,” the event provides a platform to demonstrate that while Pittsburgh’s football heritage runs deep, the city connects to much more than first downs and touchdowns.

“I think if you were going to pick a perfect time,” Mayor Corey O’Connor said, “this is the perfect time.”

SEATTLE — In what may be one of baseball’s strangest defensive plays, Seattle Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert’s uniform made an unexpected catch during Wednesday’s game against the Oakland Athletics.

During the opening inning with a runner positioned at third base, Oakland’s Carlos Cortes smashed a hard-hit ball directly toward the right-handed pitcher. The baseball mysteriously became trapped inside Gilbert’s jersey fabric.

Gilbert immediately clutched his midsection and spun around searching for the baseball while Cortes sprinted toward first base, eventually discovering the ball had somehow been snared by his own clothing.

Official scorers awarded Cortes a base hit since the play was ruled dead upon contact, though Nick Kurtz stayed put at third base. Shea Langeliers moved up to second base during the unusual sequence.

Broadcast measurements showed the screaming line drive traveling at 107.8 miles per hour.

Mariners head athletic trainer Kyle Torgerson conducted a quick medical evaluation of Gilbert, who was cleared to continue playing and completed the inning. The pitcher ultimately surrendered two earned runs during the frame on Tyler Soderstrom’s sacrifice fly and Jeff McNeil’s run-scoring single.

Gilbert took the mound again for the following inning without further incident.

DENVER (AP) — Star player Nathan MacKinnon and his Colorado Avalanche teammates have legitimate reasons to feel constrained. Their trademark speed and explosive scoring ability haven’t been fully unleashed during this playoff run.

The league’s most prolific offensive squad and quickest team during the regular season continues to struggle against Los Angeles Kings’ defensive system that clogs the neutral zone. Colorado’s top five regular season point leaders remain without a goal in the series.

However, the Avalanche maintain a commanding 2-0 advantage in their opening round matchup as they travel to Los Angeles for Thursday’s Game 3. Both victories came by identical 2-1 scores, including one overtime victory, demonstrating their versatility in different game situations.

“You definitely can get frustrated during the regular season, but playoffs … there’s no time for that,” said MacKinnon, who has an assist through two games after leading the league with 53 goals in the regular season. “You’ve got to be 100% in, team-player positive, and you’ve just got to stick with it. I feel like we’re doing a lot of good things and we’re up to it. It’s low-scoring games, but it’s not about the amount of goals. Just got to get some wins.”

During the regular season, Colorado topped the NHL in offensive categories including goals per game (3.63), shots per game (33.7) and even-strength scoring. The Presidents’ Trophy recipients also surrendered the fewest goals, with goaltender Scott Wedgewood currently handling starting duties.

“We’re comfortable playing these games,” said captain Gabriel Landeskog, who tied Tuesday’s game with 3:35 left in regulation. “If you get a little impatient with it, you start forcing plays. We just kind of kept it going. Kept trusting our forecheck, and finally, we ended up getting rewarded for it.”

While trailing in the series, the Kings remain confident in their approach. This grinding, defense-first style of hockey suits their identity perfectly, particularly with Anton Forsberg between the pipes. He’s turned away 64 of 68 shots across the first two contests.

“We’re playing a brand of hockey that gives us a chance to win,” said Kings interim coach D.J. Smith, who was showered by shattered glass on the bench in the second period Tuesday after fans pushed the panel in celebration. “Hockey’s so close and night-to-night, you win by a goal, lose by a goal. We’ve done that all year.”

“We haven’t maybe had some bounces but that’s the kind of game you can win with,” he said. “That’s a testament to the guys and how they’re digging in. Now maybe just have a little more confidence at home with the puck, but you can’t forget the style of play that we’re playing.”

Los Angeles has successfully neutralized Colorado’s power play opportunities, holding the Avalanche scoreless on seven man-advantage chances. Special teams have been a source of concern for Colorado throughout the season.

“It may look real simple — it’s no different than what they’re doing — but you’ve got to repeat certain things enough so your odds go up at putting one in the back of the net,” Avalanche coach Jared Bednar said. “I still think we’ve got another step in our game that we can ramp up to. So we’ve just got to go out and try to better our performances at home and now on the road.”

Colorado has demonstrated defensive commitment by recording the second-highest blocked shot total in the playoffs through Tuesday. They’ve also generated significant offensive pressure, ranking second in total shot attempts.

“We know we can play different styles,” said Wedgewood, who’s stopped 48 of 50 shots. “It’s going to be tough going to (their) building. They’re going to have their crowd and their emotions. Go in there and do the same thing, hopefully, take another one or two, and end it or come back here and do it again.”

BOSTON (AP) — During Monday’s Boston Marathon, runner Ajay Haridasse collapsed near the finish line when his body gave out. Two fellow competitors, Robson De Oliveira from Brazil and Aaron Beggs from Britain, stopped their own races to lift Haridasse and carry him approximately 1,000 feet to complete the course.

The inspiring moments occurred as thousands of other participants continued past the struggling runner. Instead of focusing solely on their own finish times, De Oliveira and Beggs hoisted Haridasse onto their shoulders and helped him reach the end of the prestigious race.

Spectator Pete Grasso captured the remarkable act of kindness on video as the two runners assisted Haridasse.

“The coolest part about this moment was that these two guys were less than a tenth of a mile away, in the middle of a really, really fast race, and still stopped to help a fellow runner who needed some help. That’s not easy to do,” Grasso said in an email interview. “Seeing them put everything aside in that moment just to get another runner across the line was incredible. And hearing the crowd respond, cheering for them, supporting them, truly gave me chills.”

Another touching display occurred when Washington, D.C. runner Lan Nguyen faced difficulty reaching the finish. Three other participants — Jessica Kier from Snohomish, Washington, Meredith Rosenberg from Boston, and William Bara-Jimenez from Bethesda, Maryland — stepped in to assist her. The group carried Nguyen for portions of the final stretch before she crawled across the finish line herself.

The Boston Athletic Association, which organizes the marathon, released a statement praising how participants supported struggling competitors at “the most historic finish line in all of road racing on Boylston Street.”

“The uplifting spirit of the running community to help one another, especially in times of need, is on full display on Patriots’ Day — not just at the finish, but all along the race route,” the organization stated. Officials reported that 29,101 of the 29,470 registered participants completed the race.

BOSTON — During a postgame press conference following Philadelphia’s 111-97 Game 2 victory over Boston, Paul George was praising his young teammate V.J. Edgecombe when he suddenly paused with a question.

“Are you 21 yet?” George asked, turning to face Edgecombe at the podium.

“No, 20,” Edgecombe replied with a grin.

The 76ers’ third overall draft selection from last June has entered exclusive territory in just his second playoff appearance, and his performance is no laughing matter.

“I just try not to overthink it,” Edgecombe explained. “I try not to put pressure on myself. Everybody’s already putting pressure on us to perform. … Plus, I’m around a great group of guys. That also helps me. Just keep instilling confidence in me. Just to keep going, keep going. Regardless of who’s on the floor, who’s not on the floor.”

The young star’s 30-point, 10-rebound showing made him the first rookie to achieve at least 30 points and 10 rebounds in a playoff contest since Tim Duncan accomplished the feat on May 5, 1998.

Edgecombe also etched his name in NBA record books as the first rookie ever to combine five three-pointers with 10 rebounds in a postseason game. The stellar outing represented a significant improvement from Game 1, where he managed only 13 points while shooting 6-of-16 from the field.

According to George, this performance represents the peak of talent they initially witnessed from the Bahamas-born player when he scored 34 points in his professional debut during Philadelphia’s narrow season-opening victory in Boston.

“When you think about it how he started his first NBA game in this building, I’m sure he was in a small percentage or small group of players that what he did on that opening night,” George commented.

That debut performance ranks as the third-highest scoring effort for any NBA player in their inaugural game. Wilt Chamberlain holds the record with 43 points for the Philadelphia Warriors in 1959, also grabbing 28 rebounds against New York that evening. Frank Selvy scored 35 points for the Milwaukee Hawks versus Boston in 1954.

Edgecombe surpassed Allen Iverson’s franchise record of 30 points in a Sixers debut, set in 1996.

The rookie’s 14 first-quarter points on opening night also established a new NBA record for most points scored in a player’s initial quarter. LeBron James previously held that mark from 2003.

Throughout the regular season, Edgecombe maintained a 16.0 scoring average across 75 games.

His playing style carries a charismatic flair that echoes the entertaining approach Iverson brought during his Philadelphia years.

During Tuesday’s victory, after sinking his final shot of the evening — a long-range three-pointer over Payton Pritchard that extended Philadelphia’s lead to 105-92 following Boston’s rally to 91-89 — Edgecombe winked at the television camera while running back on defense.

George believes this is merely a preview of Edgecombe’s potential.

“To put a whole season together and get to a point where he’s showcasing who he is and his abilities. I’ve been saying all year long he’s far past a rookie,” George stated. “It’s just impressive, man. (Edgecombe had) 30 and 10, but it’s just what we needed in the moments throughout the game when he took over, and kind of just put us at ease.”

The evening wasn’t without challenges for Edgecombe, who suffered a hard fall onto his back early in the contest, causing him to limp to the locker room during both the first and third quarters.

However, Edgecombe dismissed any concerns about the injury affecting his availability for the remainder of the series.

“I just landed on my back, but I’m good. I was able to finish the game so I’m good,” he stated. “That’s all I’ve got for you. I’m good, ain’t nothing wrong with me. I’m good.”

FRISCO, Texas — Dallas Cowboys leadership announced Wednesday they will not pursue contract negotiations with star wide receiver George Pickens, opting instead to have him compete under the franchise tag designation for the upcoming season.

The 25-year-old receiver has yet to sign the franchise tender valued at $27.3 million, meaning he could skip mandatory minicamp in June without facing financial consequences. The team’s offseason activities begin Monday on a voluntary basis.

“We’ve made a decision that we’re going to have George play under the franchise tag, which won’t be a first for us,” said Stephen Jones, the team’s executive vice president of personnel. “So there won’t be negotiations on a long-term deal. But that’s certainly not a first for this organization and certainly won’t be a first in the league in terms of this decision as we move forward.”

While Stephen Jones indicated he hasn’t spoken with Pickens lately, team owner Jerry Jones and head coach Brian Schottenheimer recently held discussions with the receiver.

“It was good,” Schottenheimer commented during the Cowboys’ pre-draft media session ahead of Thursday evening’s NFL draft. “The thing that George knows about Jerry and myself is we’re very upfront and we’re honest. We had great conversation. We informed him. We think that’s important because that’s the way we handle all of our players and coaches.”

Pickens’ representative, David Mulugheta, has not yet responded to media inquiries regarding the situation.

Following his trade from Pittsburgh during the previous offseason, Pickens achieved personal bests with 93 receptions, 1,429 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns while contributing to one of the NFL’s most productive offensive units. However, Dallas struggled defensively and posted a 7-9-1 record, extending their playoff absence to two consecutive seasons.

The Georgia product, selected in the second round of the 2022 draft, formed an effective partnership with CeeDee Lamb, who is entering his second season of a four-year, $136 million extension that places him among the league’s highest-paid receivers at $34 million annually.

Lamb staged a holdout throughout the 2024 offseason and training camp before finalizing his contract approximately two weeks prior to the season opener.

Dallas was unable to apply the franchise tag to Lamb due to his rookie contract structure. First-round selections include a fifth-year team option, while second-round picks like Pickens complete four-year agreements. Pickens earned $6.8 million during his initial NFL contract.

During his Pittsburgh tenure, Pickens demonstrated exceptional ability but also displayed concerning behavioral patterns that prompted former coach Mike Tomlin to question his professional maturity.

Although Schottenheimer avoided public criticism of Pickens during his inaugural head coaching campaign after 25 years as an assistant, both Pickens and Lamb were disciplined with a first-series benching in Las Vegas after violating team curfew following a casino visit.

“There’s a lot of things that go into that,” Stephen Jones explained regarding the decision to avoid long-term negotiations this offseason. “Let’s start with the fact that it’s not easy having two receivers being paid top of the market. A quarterback that’s been here, being the highest-paid player in this league for many years now.”

“The other thing is the newness of George being here,” Stephen Jones continued. “I think George has just done an amazing job. I mean he’s exceeded all expectations. And a lot of those things, they make their way toward a long-term deal, but that’s the biggest part of it — between the business and newness of it, I think that’s a big part of it.”

The San Diego Padres have brought aboard seasoned pitcher Lucas Giolito, adding the premier free agent starter available to help their injury-riddled pitching staff as the team continues its hot start to the season.

San Diego revealed the one-year contract agreement with Giolito on Wednesday, which includes a team option for 2027. The club did not reveal monetary details of the arrangement.

The 31-year-old California native posted a 10-4 record with a 3.41 earned run average across 26 starts for Boston last season, demonstrating a strong comeback following his absence from the entire 2024 campaign due to right elbow surgery that repaired his ulnar collateral ligament with an internal brace procedure in March.

Throughout nine major league seasons with Washington, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels and Cleveland, Giolito has compiled a 71-66 record with a 4.30 ERA and 1.26 WHIP.

The right-hander has demonstrated consistency and reliability throughout most of his professional tenure, earning All-Star recognition in 2019 and delivering a no-hitter in 2020. Even with his injury-shortened season, he remains among the top five American League hurlers from 2018-25 in innings thrown (1,092), strikeouts (1,153), victories (68) and complete games (5).

However, Giolito remained unsigned nearly a full month into the current season before joining the Padres, who have excelled on the mound despite significant rotation disruptions and injury concerns.

Starting pitcher Nick Pivetta landed on the disabled list last week with a right elbow flexor strain that may sideline him for several months, while Joe Musgrove has yet to take the mound this year due to a prolonged recovery from Tommy John surgery. Yu Darvish is already finished for the season with an elbow problem, and Dylan Cease departed last fall after signing a $210 million free-agent contract with Toronto.

Despite these setbacks, the Padres maintain the majors’ second-best team ERA at 3.22 following Tuesday night’s 1-0 victory over Colorado, marking their 11th win in 12 contests. San Diego’s 16-7 record matches the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers for baseball’s best mark.

General manager A.J. Preller managed to accommodate Giolito within his financial constraints while the franchise undergoes ownership changes. The family of deceased Padres owner Peter Seidler is close to completing a sale to billionaire Jose E. Feliciano and his wife, Kwanza Jones.

Giolito will immediately join a rotation currently featuring Michael King, Randy Vásquez, Germán Márquez and former Dodgers ace Walker Buehler. Right-hander Matt Waldron made a start following Pivetta’s injury but performed poorly in a defeat to the Angels.

Giolito had signed a $38.5 million, two-year agreement with Boston in January 2024. He aims to continue his impressive performance with the Red Sox from 2025, when he went 9-1 with a 2.26 ERA over 15 starts between June 10 and August 31 after a sluggish beginning. Opposing batters managed just .194 (25 for 129) against his changeup and .200 (3 for 15) against his curveball.

Boston excluded him from their postseason roster after he experienced elbow discomfort in mid-September, though no structural damage was found — which he described as “a small relief in a very unfortunate situation.”

“As it was described to me in layman’s terms, my flexor is very irritated and at this point it’s hard for me to describe,” Giolito explained following Game 1 of Boston’s AL Wild Card Series against the New York Yankees. “It’s like weird stuff going on with my bone. It’s one of those things I was told you got to stop throwing and let it calm down.”

Giolito has not appeared in playoff action since 2021, when he made his second career postseason appearance for the White Sox.

San Diego moved right-hander Bryan Hoeing to the 60-day disabled list to create roster space for Giolito on the 40-man squad.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals announced Wednesday they will abandon their current home at Kauffman Stadium in favor of a brand-new downtown ballpark, teaming up with Hallmark Cards for an ambitious $3 billion development project.

Team owner John Sherman joined Hallmark chairman Don Hall Jr., Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, and Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas at Hallmark’s headquarters to unveil the massive undertaking that will transform the Crown Center district.

Though the complete master plan remains in development, Sherman revealed the $1.9 billion stadium will begin construction next year at the heart of Crown Center, serving as the focal point of an 85-acre development’s initial phase. Private investors will provide two-thirds of the financing, with the remaining third coming from public partners, including state funds designated for stadium construction.

“This is a partnership between two treasured Kansas City institutions,” Sherman stated. “We are committed to creating a vision which honors our history, the rich past of both organizations, while reinvigorating and reimagining what our future can be together.”

The revelation followed Kansas City officials’ recent approval of an ordinance allowing City Manager Mario Vasquez to negotiate a $600 million agreement supporting the Royals’ downtown relocation. Many expected the venue would occupy Washington Square Park near Union Station, but the stadium will actually sit just south of that location, incorporating the park into the broader development.

Hallmark plans to construct new corporate headquarters within the area, which connects via streetcar to the Power & Light District anchored by T-Mobile Center. That downtown Kansas City skyline will create the scenic backdrop beyond the stadium’s outfield walls.

City leaders emphasized the area’s existing public parking availability and easy highway access for traffic management.

Missouri’s financial contribution stems from legislation passed last year authorizing bonds covering up to half the cost of new or renovated state stadiums, plus $50 million in tax credits per facility and additional local government assistance.

“We think it’s a great investment for our Missouri taxpayers, because this does not affect existing programs,” Kehoe explained. “The ripple effect from this facility will truly be far-reaching into rural Missouri and other parts of the state.”

The Royals have maintained they would vacate Kauffman Stadium when their Truman Sports Complex lease ends in 2031, with Sherman pursuing a downtown ballpark replacement since acquiring the team in 2019.

However, Wednesday’s announcement followed numerous obstacles and setbacks.

The most significant hurdle occurred in April 2024, when the Chiefs partnered with the Royals on a proposal to renovate Arrowhead Stadium while replacing Kauffman Stadium. The plan required extending a sales tax funding stadium maintenance, but Jackson County, Missouri voters decisively rejected the measure, forcing both franchises to pursue separate solutions.

Kansas lawmakers aggressively courted the Chiefs, approving $2.4 billion in bonds last December to fund 60% of a new $3 billion domed stadium in Kansas City, Kansas. The NFL team ultimately chose to relocate across state lines, also planning a new training facility in nearby Olathe, Kansas.

Kansas officials briefly showed interest in the Royals as well, though their pursuit of the MLB team remained halfhearted.

The Royals considered multiple locations in recent months, ultimately declining an Overland Park, Kansas option and missing a deadline for a site north of downtown across the Missouri River in Clay County, Missouri.

Economic experts have consistently determined that stadium subsidies don’t justify their community costs, as these facilities typically redirect economic activity from other local areas rather than growing the overall economy. Despite this, states and cities regularly fund stadium renovations or new construction — 49 of 60 venues used by MLB or NFL teams are publicly owned or built on public property.

Sherman has referenced Truist Park in Atlanta as a model for Kansas City’s potential.

That stadium represented a public-private partnership where the Cobb-Marietta Coliseum & Exhibit Hall Authority issued up to $397 million in bonds, the county generated additional millions through transportation taxes, and businesses contributed cash. The Braves funded the remaining costs for both the park and The Battery mixed-use development, totaling over $1.1 billion.

“There are many great ballpark neighborhoods in Major League Baseball,” Sherman noted, “but this is a bigger project with more land in downtown and in the heart of the city. We are bringing a modern, state-of-the-art ballpark experience to our fans, closer to our public transportation and where more people work and live.”

Baltimore Orioles infielder Jackson Holliday encountered another complication in his recovery from a hand injury during Tuesday’s Triple-A game, prompting team officials to schedule an MRI examination.

The 22-year-old prospect, who was selected first overall in the 2022 draft, left Norfolk’s matchup against Memphis after feeling discomfort while taking a swing at the plate.

Holliday has been attempting to return to major league action since breaking a hamate bone during February batting practice. This marks his second episode of hand and wrist pain within the past week.

“We’re getting him up to Baltimore for an MRI,” Orioles manager Craig Albernaz stated after Tuesday’s 6-5 defeat in Kansas City.

The young infielder completed 11 rehabilitation appearances with Norfolk between March 27 and April 12, followed by two contests at High-A Fredericksburg on April 18-19, before rejoining Norfolk on Tuesday. His combined performance across 14 minor league games shows a .176 batting average with 9 hits in 51 at-bats, zero home runs, and four runs batted in.

The son of seven-time All-Star Matt Holliday posted a .242 batting average with 17 homers, 55 RBIs, and 17 stolen bases across 149 games with Baltimore during the 2025 season.

This year’s NFL draft may buck the recent trend of multiple quarterbacks being selected early, with experts predicting a significant dropoff after Fernando Mendoza is chosen first overall by Las Vegas.

Unlike the quarterback-heavy drafts of 2021 and 2024, this year’s class appears top-heavy, with a substantial talent gap between Mendoza and the next signal-caller on most draft boards, Ty Simpson.

Betting markets show Simpson as a borderline first-round selection, with odds placing his draft position at around pick 24.5. Should he slip even slightly, the opening round could feature just a single quarterback for only the third time in nearly two and a half decades.

Historical data shows only two instances since 2000 where one quarterback was drafted in round one: Kenny Pickett going 20th overall in 2022 and EJ Manuel selected 16th in 2013.

Recent drafts have averaged 3.3 quarterbacks in the first round over the past dozen years, including a record-tying six selections in 2024 and five each in 2021 and 2018. Oregon’s Dante Moore, who likely would have been drafted highly, chose to remain in college for another season, aided by Name, Image and Likeness opportunities.

Interestingly, drafts with limited first-round quarterback selections have historically produced successful late-round finds. Brock Purdy became Mr. Irrelevant in 2022 after Pickett’s selection, while Geno Smith went in round two following Manuel in 2013. Hall of Fame quarterbacks Drew Brees was a second-rounder in 2001 after Michael Vick went first overall, and Tom Brady famously lasted until the sixth round in 2000.

Should Las Vegas select Mendoza, it would mark their first opening-round quarterback since taking JaMarcus Russell first overall in 2007, a pick that became one of history’s biggest draft disappointments.

Only three franchises have longer droughts selecting first-round quarterbacks: Seattle last chose one in 1993 with Rick Mirer, Dallas in 1989 with Troy Aikman, and New Orleans in 1971 with Archie Manning.

Draft positioning has seen significant movement this year, with the latest trade sending Cincinnati’s 10th overall pick to the New York Giants in exchange for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence.

This marks just the sixth time in the common draft era that at least six teams possess multiple first-round selections, with nine teams accomplishing this feat in 2022 setting the record.

Teams holding multiple first-rounders include the New York Jets, Cleveland, Kansas City, Miami, Dallas, and now the Giants. Meanwhile, Cincinnati, Atlanta, Indianapolis, Green Bay, Jacksonville, and Denver currently lack first-round picks.

Jacksonville faces their first opening round absence since joining the NFL in 1995, following last year’s trade to acquire Travis Hunter with the second overall selection. Their 31-year streak ranks fourth-longest in common draft era history.

Cincinnati’s drought would end their longest first-round absence since 1989, while Pittsburgh holds the record with 52 consecutive years of first-round picks from 1968-2019. Detroit could claim the longest active streak at 33 years if they select in round one.

The Giants now possess a rare opportunity with two top-10 selections at fifth and 10th overall, similar to their 2022 draft when they selected Kayvon Thibodeaux fifth and Evan Neal seventh.

Only four other teams in the past 25 drafts have made two top-10 picks, all occurring since 2018: Cleveland with Baker Mayfield and Denzel Ward, the Jets with Garrett Wilson and Sauce Gardner, Houston with C.J. Stroud and Will Anderson, and Chicago with Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze.

Ohio State could dominate early proceedings with Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, Caleb Downs, and Carnell Tate all projected as potential top-10 selections. The last school to place four players in the top 10 was Michigan State in 1967 with Bubba Smith, Clint Jones, George Webster, and Gene Washington.

Seven schools have managed three top-10 picks in the common draft era, with Ohio State accomplishing this in 2016 through Joey Bosa, Ezekiel Elliott, and Eli Apple. Alabama last achieved this feat in 2021 with Jaylen Waddle, Patrick Surtain II, and DeVonta Smith.

Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love could end a seven-year drought of running backs selected in the top five, with oddsmakers setting his draft position at 4.5. No running back has gone in the top five since Saquon Barkley went fifth to the Giants in 2018.

This seven-year span represents the longest stretch without a top-five running back in common draft history, surpassing the four-year period from 1970-73. The position’s declining value reflects the league’s evolution toward pass-heavy offenses.

Love’s teammate Jadarian Price could become the second running back selected, which would mark the first time the initial two running backs drafted came from the same college program.

Italian tennis sensation Jannik Sinner has evolved from being primarily known as a hard court specialist into the leading contender for clay court tournaments, with experts pointing to his mental fortitude and process-focused approach as key factors in his transformation.

The 24-year-old, who has captured four Grand Slam titles, was traditionally expected to dominate on faster surfaces while leaving clay court supremacy to his chief rival Carlos Alcaraz. However, Sinner’s dedicated work on developing patience and tactical control has shifted that narrative entirely.

While Alcaraz boasts seven major championships and defended his French Open crown last year, he recently fell to Sinner in the Monte Carlo championship match. The Spanish star then sustained a wrist injury during competition in Barcelona, hampering his preparation for the upcoming clay court season.

Sinner will test his continued development this week at the Madrid Open, where the elevated altitude creates unique playing conditions that accelerate the typically slower clay surface.

“Here it’s a very unique playing style,” Sinner explained. “It’s a very high altitude and it can be windy at times, so it’s very difficult to play. But I think every different kind of claycourt can help me as I’m trying to improve as a player.”

Sports psychologist and former professional player Jeff Greenwald has observed distinct mental differences between the two young stars that may give Sinner an edge.

“Sinner, even more than Alcaraz, has this unflappable demeanour that is built from this deep love and appreciation of the process,” Greenwald explained to Reuters. “He’s the poster child for mastery, a desire to be as good as he can be, which overrides the ever fluctuating, short-term obsession with this point, this win, that is almost always trading the short-term result for longer-term success.”

This emphasis on long-term improvement rather than individual moments has fundamentally altered how Sinner approaches clay court tennis, where his strategic discipline and comfort with unpredictable situations are becoming significant assets as the French Open approaches on May 24.

The Italian now faces a different type of mental challenge as he enters tournaments carrying the burden of being considered the frontrunner rather than the underdog.

According to Greenwald, managing expectations represents one of the most common yet potentially harmful distractions for elite athletes.

“They try to not get preoccupied by them with the ‘process mindset’ as best they can but most of the players are vulnerable to this reality, given that their livelihoods are on the line,” he noted. “This is where Sinner has an advantage … he didn’t develop this (mindset) after becoming successful. It was baked into his training and development. So whether he’s labelled a favourite by the media and other players, this will not affect him.”

“More than anything, it’ll only solidify the confidence, remarkable resilience and joy he brings to every match.”

Should Alcaraz recover from his injury in time for Roland Garros, the tournament could present a significant psychological examination for Sinner, who suffered defeat against his rival in last year’s thrilling final.

Despite that setback, the Italian welcomes the prospect of facing his greatest competitor as he pursues a career Grand Slam.

“When you want to win, you want to do it by beating the best and he’s among them,” Sinner stated.

J.J. Moser netted his first playoff goal 12:48 into the extra period Tuesday night, leading the Tampa Bay Lightning to a 3-2 comeback win over Montreal and tying their Eastern Conference first-round series at one game apiece.

The Lightning dominated the overtime session and capitalized when Moser secured the puck following a faceoff victory in the attacking zone. He maneuvered into position at the top of the right circle and fired a shot into the upper corner of the net.

Montreal had captured Game 1 in overtime but was completely outplayed in the extra frame of Game 2, managing zero shots while Tampa Bay recorded nine attempts. The series moves to Montreal for Game 3 on Friday.

Brandon Hagel contributed a goal and assist for Tampa Bay, while Nikita Kucherov added one goal. Anthony Cirelli recorded two assists and goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy stopped 25 shots for the Lightning, who broke free from recent playoff struggles.

Avalanche 2, Kings 1 (OT)

Nicolas Roy found the net at 7:44 of overtime, propelling Colorado past Los Angeles in Denver and giving the Avalanche a 2-0 advantage in their Western Conference first-round matchup.

Gabriel Landeskog netted the equalizer late in regulation while Scott Wedgewood turned away 24 shots for Colorado. Wedgewood topped the NHL during the regular season with a 2.02 goals-against average and .921 save percentage.

Anton Forsberg stopped 34 shots for Los Angeles in his second career playoff appearance, both coming in this series. He has surrendered two goals or fewer in eight of his last nine outings.

Bruins 4, Sabres 2

Boston scored three times in the middle period and withstood a late Buffalo surge to level their Eastern Conference quarterfinal series at one win each.

Viktor Arvidsson tallied in both the second and third periods, giving Boston 1-0 and 4-0 advantages. Morgan Geekie and Pavel Zacha also found the back of the net for the Bruins, who return home for Game 3 on Thursday. Jeremy Swayman recorded 34 saves.

Bowen Byram and Peyton Krebs scored for Buffalo, cutting the deficit to 4-2 in the final minutes. Buffalo netminder Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen surrendered four goals on 19 shots before Alex Lyon took over in relief after Arvidsson’s second goal just 16 seconds into the third period.

Utah 3, Golden Knights 2

Logan Cooley scored the decisive goal on a rebound with six minutes left, delivering Utah its first playoff victory in franchise history over Vegas in Game 2 of their Western Conference first-round series in Las Vegas.

Cooley converted a rebound from a Dylan Guenther shot, knotting the series at one game each. Guenther registered a goal and assist, Kailer Yamamoto added two assists, and MacKenzie Weegar also scored. Karel Vejmelka made 19 saves, including a crucial stop on Mark Stone’s close-range attempt with five seconds remaining.

Mark Stone and Ivan Barbashev each scored for Vegas, while Jack Eichel contributed two assists for the Golden Knights, who suffered their first regulation loss in 10 games (8-1-1) under coach John Tortorella. Carter Hart finished with 27 saves. Game 3 takes place Friday in Salt Lake City.

Scoot Henderson delivered his best performance of the season with 31 points, leading Portland’s dramatic comeback from a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat San Antonio 106-103 on Tuesday night, tying their Western Conference first-round playoff series at one game apiece.

The series shifts to Portland for Game 3 on Friday, but San Antonio’s chances took a major hit when Victor Wembanyama suffered a concussion after hitting his face on the court during the second quarter. The reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year will undergo additional evaluation on Wednesday, leaving his availability for the next game uncertain.

San Antonio appeared in control after opening the final quarter with a 13-0 scoring surge that extended their one-point lead to 93-79. However, Portland responded with a crucial 7-0 run late in the game, taking the lead on a Jrue Holiday layup with 2:02 remaining and maintaining that advantage until the final buzzer.

Holiday contributed 16 points and nine assists to Portland’s victory, while Deni Avdija chipped in 14 points. For the Spurs, Stephon Castle led all scorers with 18 points, De’Aaron Fox added 17 points, and Devin Vassell recorded a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds.

In other playoff action, LeBron James powered the Lakers to a 101-94 win over Houston with 28 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, giving Los Angeles a commanding 2-0 series lead. Marcus Smart provided excellent support with 25 points on strong three-point shooting, while Luke Kennard added 23 points despite the absence of injured stars Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Meanwhile, Philadelphia bounced back from a disappointing Game 1 loss by defeating Boston 111-97 to even their Eastern Conference series. VJ Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey combined for 59 points and knocked down 11 three-pointers, helping the 76ers shoot an impressive 48.7% from beyond the arc after managing just four three-pointers in their series opener.

The opening stretch of this year’s NBA playoffs began with complete home dominance. Through the initial six contests, host teams swept every game, cruising to victory by an impressive 18.5-point average.

But the script has flipped dramatically since then. Visiting squads have discovered how to compete and win on hostile courts.

Among the six opening-round matchups that have played two games each, just two top-seeded franchises — Cleveland and the Los Angeles Lakers — have successfully defended their home venues to grab commanding 2-0 advantages. Oklahoma City has an opportunity to join that exclusive group when they face Phoenix in their second game Wednesday evening.

Beyond that, the home-court edge that franchises battled through 82 regular-season contests to secure has vanished. This development means numerous Game 3 matchups approaching later this week will feature lower-seeded clubs feeling confident about potential upsets.

— Eastern Conference eighth-seeded Orlando stunned top-ranked Detroit in their opening clash Sunday. The Pistons will attempt to even the series when play continues Wednesday.

— Eastern sixth-seed Atlanta defeated third-seeded New York on Monday, while Western sixth-seed Minnesota topped third-seeded Denver that same evening.

— Tuesday brought more surprises as Eastern seventh-seed Philadelphia defeated second-seeded Boston, and Western seventh-seed Portland knocked off second-seeded San Antonio. The Spurs lost star Victor Wembanyama to a first-half concussion during their defeat.

Cleveland maintains a 2-0 edge over Toronto, while the Lakers hold the same advantage against Houston.

“It’s the playoffs,” Celtics forward Jaylen Brown commented following his squad’s performance — they had dominated Philadelphia by 32 points in the opener before falling by 14 in Game 2. “They’ve got ballplayers over there and they came to play. On any given night, you can lose a game if you don’t come out with the right mindset.”

Visiting teams capturing victories represents nothing new. This pattern has emerged consistently in recent seasons.

During the past six postseasons, excluding the 2020 bubble playoffs at Walt Disney World due to pandemic conditions, home clubs have claimed just 58% of playoff contests — a significant decline from historical standards. In the 15 seasons prior to that stretch, home teams secured playoff victories at a 69% clip.

“Whatever story you told yourself during the regular season, that story is done,” Magic coach Jamahl Mosley explained. “And now it’s the playoffs, so it’s an entirely new season.”

The Pistons, Celtics, Spurs — regardless of Wembanyama’s status — and Nuggets won’t be fazed by needing to capture at least one road victory to advance past these first-round series. All these clubs made away wins appear routine throughout the regular campaign.

Oklahoma City posted the league’s best road record. The following four most successful road teams were San Antonio, Detroit, Denver and Boston.

“You have to just keep your temperament where it’s at, understand these games ebb and flow,” Denver coach David Adelman remarked after losing Game 2 to Minnesota. “And we can play better. We know that.”

Houston’s 30 home victories tied for fourth-best league-wide, so the Lakers — despite successfully protecting their court for a 2-0 lead — understand their Rockets series remains far from decided.

“It’s the postseason. So, it’s the first to four,” Lakers forward LeBron James stated. “It’s never the first to one. It’s never the first to two. Our whole mindset now is focused on Game 3. We know we’re going into a hostile environment. Guys tend to play better at home than they do on the road, so we have to be ready for that.”

Under the present playoff structure, higher-seeded teams advance from conference quarterfinals 77.4% of the time, jumping to 92.5% when those favored clubs begin with 2-0 series advantages. The road warriors thus far — Orlando, Atlanta, Minnesota, Portland and Philadelphia — have at minimum created significant doubt about those statistics.

Still, all these teams recognize plenty of basketball remains ahead.

“It’s 1-1. Who cares?” 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey said. “Now we’ve got to go home and try to protect home court.”

DENVER — A dramatic scene unfolded during Tuesday night’s playoff hockey game when Los Angeles Kings interim coach D.J. Smith found himself dodging falling glass after an arena panel collapsed behind his team’s bench during Game 3 against the Colorado Avalanche.

The incident occurred moments after Colorado goalie Scott Wedgewood blocked a penalty shot attempt by Kings forward Quinton Byfield, with 16 minutes and 48 seconds left in the second period. Enthusiastic Avalanche supporters began banging on the protective glass barrier, causing it to wobble before completely giving way and sending glass fragments tumbling onto Smith below.

Smith immediately shielded his head with his hands as debris scattered around him, then dusted off his suit jacket before walking to the locker room area. The coach emerged again several minutes later to resume his duties.

Arena maintenance staff quickly responded with cleaning equipment including shovels and containers to remove the broken glass from the visiting team’s bench area. Meanwhile, Kings players gathered on the ice surface while workers brought in and mounted a replacement glass panel.

Colorado team captain Gabriel Landeskog shared his reaction with ESPN hockey commentator Erik Johnson, saying he had never witnessed such an occurrence during his career. “It was loud there when ‘Wedgy’ made that save and fans got a little too excited,” Landeskog explained.

The unexpected interruption lasted over 15 minutes, with both teams tied at zero when officials stopped the action.