MLB to Question Dodgers Doctor Over Conor McGregor PED Report Major League Baseball (MLB) has initiated an investigation into Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the team doctor for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams, following reports that he referred UFC star Conor McGregor to a specialist who prescribed banned substances during McGregor’s recovery from a 2021 leg injury. The New York Times reported that after Dr. ElAttrache oversaw surgery for McGregor’s fractured lower left leg, he arranged for the athlete to consult a specialist who recommended the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). In a statement to the newspaper, ElAttrache clarified that he was not involved in the evaluation or prescription process, stating he had no role in the specialist’s recommendations. McGregor sustained a severe injury in a 2021 UFC bout, breaking both bones in his left leg. According to the Times, Dr. ElAttrache referred McGregor to a specialist, whose treatment plan included the use of substances prohibited under MLB’s drug policies. ElAttrache emphasized that the “expert opinions” he received were intended to optimize McGregor’s recovery, ensuring “solid union and healing of his fractures.” He reiterated that he did not participate in the evaluation or medication decisions, though the referral has prompted scrutiny. MLB’s investigation is proceeding as a matter of due diligence, with the league stating it is not aware of any allegations involving ElAttrache’s potential misconduct with baseball players. However, the probe underscores the league’s commitment to enforcing its anti-doping policies, even as it acknowledges the complexities of cross-sport medical practices.#new_york_times #conor_mcgregor #mlb #los_angeles_dodgers #dr_neal_elattrache
World Series champion John Smoltz warns baseball 'will suffer' if ABS system is applied to all pitches A month into the MLB season, the implementation of the Automatic Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system has sparked debate among players and analysts. World Series champion John Smoltz, a Hall of Famer and eight-time All-Star, has expressed concerns that expanding the system to cover all pitches could fundamentally alter the game. While Smoltz praised the current challenge system as a "big success," he emphasized his hope that it remains limited to its current format, where teams are allowed two challenges per game. Smoltz, 59, told Fox News Digital that the system has already changed the dynamics of baseball. He argued that the current setup allows for strategic use of challenges without overcomplicating the game. "I like it with two challenges only," he said. "Baseball will suffer and not be the same if it goes to a full-time system. It'll be impossible to hit." His comments reflect broader concerns among players about the potential for the ABS system to reduce human judgment in critical moments, such as determining whether a pitch is a ball or strike. The ABS system, introduced to minimize subjective calls by umpires, has already influenced player behavior. According to Fangraphs, hitters are swinging at 46.9% of pitches this season, down from 47.5% last year, while walk rates have increased to 9.2% from 8.4%. Smoltz attributed these shifts to the system’s impact on both pitchers and batters. He noted that pitchers are struggling to command the ball consistently, leading to more walks and fewer swings. "The swing rate has gone down, the walk rates gone through the roof," he said. "That's a problem, but it's a byproduct of pitchers not being able to command the baseball.#atlanta_braves #mlb #fox_news_digital #john_smoltz #automatic_ball_strike
Houston Astros Near Last in AL West Despite Trade Rumors for Yordan Alvarez The Houston Astros, currently sitting near the bottom of the American League standings with a 28-25 record and fourth place in their division, are unlikely to enter a full-scale rebuild by trading their MVP favorite, Yordan Alvarez, during the season. Despite their struggles, the Astros are not expected to make a significant move involving Alvarez before the Aug. 3 trade deadline, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. This season has been a challenging one for the Astros, who are on pace to have their worst performance since 2014 when they finished with a 70-92 record. The team also ranks fourth-worst in the American League with a run differential of minus-35, trailing only the Baltimore Orioles, Kansas City Royals, and Los Angeles Angels. Adding to their woes is a lack of promising prospects in their farm system, which MLB.com has labeled as the worst in the league. Coming into the season, the Astros did not have a top-100 prospect, further limiting their options for future development. Yordan Alvarez remains the team’s most valuable asset, both on and off the field. The 28-year-old slugger is having an MVP-caliber season, posting a .316/.426/.649 slash line with 21 home runs in 62 games. His performance has earned him a spot at the top of league leaderboards, as he leads the American League in batting average and home runs while also holding the highest slugging percentage in Major League Baseball at .649. His combination of age and offensive prowess makes him a potential game-changer for any contending team in a playoff race. Alvarez is under contract for two more seasons, with a total of $53.6 million in guaranteed pay.#mlb #jeff_passan #american_league #houston_astro #yordan_alvarez
Los Angeles Angels Unlikely to Trade Mike Trout Despite Struggles The Los Angeles Angels, currently languishing at the bottom of the MLB standings with one of the worst farm systems in the league, are not expected to trade star player Mike Trout before the trade deadline. Despite their poor performance this season, owner Arte Moreno has shown no willingness to move Trout, a decision that has surprised many analysts and fans. This stance mirrors Moreno’s approach in 2023, when the team faced similar challenges. At that time, the Angels were trying to decide whether to trade Shohei Ohtani, who was set to become a free agent at the end of the year. However, Moreno reacted angrily in July 2022 when the front office proposed trading Ohtani, setting a precedent that continued through the 2023 season. Even though the Angels made Ohtani available, no serious trade discussions materialized. The 2023 season was a turning point for the Angels, as they finished with a respectable 56-51 record and remained within four games of a playoff spot. This contrast highlights the current situation, as the team now shares the worst record in MLB with the Colorado Rockies at 24-39. The Angels’ farm system is also ranked third-worst in the league, further complicating their rebuilding efforts. Trout, who has been a cornerstone of the team’s success, is not the same caliber player as Ohtani was in 2023. However, his current contract includes four more years and $148.5 million in guaranteed salary, making him a difficult asset to trade. Despite the Angels’ struggles, Trout has remained healthy and is having one of his best seasons in recent years. He is hitting .240 with a .411 on-base percentage and .479 slugging average, tallying 14 home runs in 62 games.#shohei_ohtani #mlb #mike_trout #los_angeles_angels #arte_moreno
Logan Henderson’s Unconventional Approach to Pitching Success Logan Henderson isn’t what you would call a ground-ball pitcher. Of the 71 batters the Brewers’ right-hander has faced so far this season, 45 have put the ball in play, with only eight hitting ground balls. That translates to a 17.8% ground-ball rate, the third lowest among qualifying pitchers. Unlike many in the league, Henderson is giving up a significant number of fly balls, line drives, and popups, yet his performance has been nothing short of impressive. With Brandon Woodruff and Quinn Priester sidelined on the injured list, Henderson has stepped into a starting role and has thrived. Set to start Friday against the Dodgers at American Family Field, he has posted a 3.50 ERA and 23 strikeouts in four starts for the Brewers. Building on a stellar 2025 debut campaign, Henderson now boasts a 2.49 career ERA, placing him among just seven pitchers in franchise history with a sub-2.50 ERA in their first nine career starts. The former MLB Pipeline Top 100 prospect has found success by keeping hitters off-balance, inducing softly hit contact, and maintaining elite strikeout and walk rates. This season, he has an impressive 32.4% strikeout rate, compared to a 4.2% walk rate (three walks in 18 innings). Through Wednesday, his strikeout-minus-walk rate of 28.2% ranks third among starting pitchers with at least 10 innings pitched, trailing only the Orioles’ Dean Kremer (32.6%) and Brewers teammate Jacob Misiorowski (31.3%). Henderson’s 56 strikeouts through his first nine Major League starts are just one more than Misiorowski recorded in the same span. In Brewers history, only Freddy Peralta (63) and Corbin Burnes (59) have surpassed that mark, with Mike Fiers tied with Henderson at 56.#mlb #brewers #american_family_field #logan_henderson #theo_derosa
Diamondbacks Designate Alek Thomas For Assignment, Promote Ryan Waldschmidt The Arizona Diamondbacks have made a significant roster adjustment by designating outfielder Alek Thomas for assignment and promoting top prospect Ryan Waldschmidt to the majors. The move, announced on Friday, marks the end of Thomas’ tenure with the team after four major league seasons and signals the Diamondbacks’ confidence in Waldschmidt’s potential to contribute immediately. Thomas, a former top prospect, will have five days to be traded or placed on outright waivers, while Waldschmidt, a 23-year-old outfielder, is set to take on a regular role in the outfield. Thomas, a second-round draft pick in 2018, rose to become one of the game’s most highly regarded outfield prospects. At his peak, he ranked as high as No. 18 on MLB.com’s rankings and No. 32 on Baseball America’s list. Despite his tools—highlighted by elite sprint speed and defensive prowess—Thomas struggled to translate his potential into consistent offensive production. Over four MLB seasons, he has never surpassed nine home runs or an 81 wRC+ (weighted on-base average). His 2023 season was particularly challenging, as he posted a .181/.222/.340 line with a 23% strikeout rate, far below league averages. The Diamondbacks, who rank 19th in runs scored and 22nd in home runs, cited his lack of offensive development as the reason for his release. Waldschmidt, a former No. 31 overall draft pick, has emerged as a standout in Triple-A Reno, where he slashed .289/.400/.477 with three homers, nine doubles, three triples, six steals, and a 12.2% walk rate. His 24.4% strikeout rate is a concern, but his plus raw power and above-average speed make him a valuable asset.#mlb #arizona_diamondbacks #alek_thomas #ryan_waldschmidt #triple_a_reno
MLB Week of May 4, 2026: Key Series and Storylines to Watch The week of May 4, 2026, promises a packed schedule of high-stakes matchups across Major League Baseball, with several series carrying significant implications for division races and playoff positioning. Among the highlights are the first meeting between the reigning American League champions and an unexpected division rival, a pivotal clash in the NL Central, and a rematch of past postseason battles. Here’s a breakdown of the most compelling games and narratives to follow. The Blue Jays and Rays will open the week with a three-game series, offering a chance for Toronto to rebound from a slow start. The Rays, currently second in the AL East with a 21-12 record, have dominated the Blue Jays in recent matchups, winning seven of 13 games in 2025. The Blue Jays, sitting third at 16-18, face a daunting challenge as they attempt to close the 5.5-game gap. The Rays’ rotation features three formidable pitchers—Nick Martinez, Drew Rasmussen, and Shane McClanahan—though McClanahan’s return to form after two injury-plagued seasons makes him the most critical matchup. The Blue Jays’ recent surge, including a strong finish to the 2025 season, could provide momentum, but the Rays’ depth and pitching prowess make this a tough series for Toronto. In the NL Central, the Reds and Cubs will square off in a four-game series that could reshape the division’s hierarchy. The Reds, led by a strong start to the season, have won four of the last five season series against the Cubs, including an 8-5 record in 2025. The Cubs, however, have been on a roll, riding a five-game win streak and a 11-game winning streak at Wrigley Field.#mlb #rays #blue_jays #cubs #reds
MLB Batter Props Highlight Structural Edge for April 18, 2026 Saturday’s Major League Baseball slate features three standout batter props that offer clear value for informed bettors. These wagers are grounded in statistical analysis, matchup advantages, and projected performance, making them more than just educated guesses. The key factors include favorable park conditions, opponent vulnerabilities, and lines that haven’t fully reflected the players’ capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of the three most compelling bets. Aaron Judge’s matchup against a left-handed pitcher presents a prime opportunity for him to exceed the 1.5 total bases line. Through 20 games in 2026, Judge is slashing .240/.329/.600 with 8 home runs and 45 total bases, averaging 2.25 bases per game. His performance against left-handed starters has been particularly strong, with power production consistently above his overall averages. Tonight’s opponent, Kansas City’s Noah Cameron, is a lefty with a softer repertoire, giving Judge the chance to extend at-bats and capitalize on deep counts. The 1.5 total bases line requires just one extra-base hit or two singles from a player averaging 2.25 bases per game. At -105 odds on BetMGM, this prop is essentially a coin flip, making it a near-lock for a player with Judge’s track record. Oneil Cruz’s hit rate makes him a no-brainer for the OVER 0.5 hits prop. Cruz has been one of the league’s most productive hitters, posting a .310 average, .380 on-base percentage, and .563 slugging percentage through 18 games. He has 22 hits in that span, averaging 1.22 hits per game. Facing Drew Rasmussen, a right-handed starter with a subpar season, Cruz’s chances of recording at least one hit are nearly guaranteed.#kansas_city #mlb #aaron_judge #oneil_cruz #jordan_walker
Angels vs Yankees Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game The New York Yankees are set to end a five-game losing streak when they take on the Los Angeles Angels in a crucial matchup at Yankee Stadium on Monday, April 13, 2026. The game, scheduled to start at 7:05 p.m. ET, will feature a key pitching matchup between Yankees starter Will Warren (1-0, 3.07 ERA) and Angels ace Yusei Kikuchi (0-2, 6.75 ERA). Analyst Chris Hatfield, with over 12 years of betting experience, has tipped the Yankees as strong favorites to secure a win, particularly in the run line market. Hatfield’s expert pick for the game is Yankees -1.5 at +105 odds, citing favorable conditions for the Yankees’ offense. He notes that Kikuchi, who has spent significant time in the AL East, has struggled against New York’s hitters. The Yankees’ lineup, ranked among the league’s best in chase rate suppression, is expected to sit on Kikuchi’s fastball, which has posted bottom 8th-percentile run value. Additionally, the Yankees’ ability to avoid off-speed pitches and capitalize on Kikuchi’s hard-hit numbers—typically in the bottom 30% of the league—makes them strong candidates to break their losing streak. The Over/Under pick for the game is Over 9.5 at -105 odds, with Hatfield leaning toward the Over due to the potential for high-scoring output. He highlights Will Warren’s Bottom 7th-percentile chase rate, which could lead the Angels to sit in the strike zone and make contact. While the Yankees have more paths to scoring, the Angels’ underrated power lineup is expected to contribute, making the Over a viable option. The Yankees’ moneyline odds are -190, while the Angels are at +165. The run line market shows the Yankees as -1.5 favorites, with the Angels at +1.5. The Over/Under line is set at 9, with the Over favored at -105.#mlb #new_york_yankees #yankee_stadium #los_angeles_angels #chris_hatfield
DraftKings Promo Code Offers $300 Bonus Bets for Wednesday Sports Action The DraftKings sports betting platform is promoting a new offer that provides users with $300 in bonus bets for specific events on Wednesday, including NBA games, MLB matchups, and the start of the Augusta National Golf Championship. The promotion is designed to incentivize new users to sign up and place their first wager, with the bonus bets contingent on the outcome of their initial bet. Under the terms of the offer, users who meet the criteria will receive $25 bonus bets in the form of slips, which are valid for seven days after being credited to their account. These bonus bets do not hold cash value and are transferred to the user’s cash balance upon settlement. To qualify, users must be new to DraftKings, have not previously signed up for an account, and meet the age and legal requirements for sports betting in their state. The process involves creating an account, making a minimum $5 deposit, and placing a qualifying bet of at least $5. The promotion aligns with a busy sports calendar on Wednesday, featuring high-profile matchups in both the NBA and MLB. In the NBA, the Cleveland Cavaliers will face the Atlanta Hawks in a game that serves as a potential preview of a playoff series if the regular season had ended. The Spurs and Portland Trail Blazers will also compete in the Western Conference, with the Spurs favored to secure a top seed. Meanwhile, the Yankees and Athletics will clash in a game that could test the Yankees’ early-season momentum, while the Twins and Tigers will continue their AL Central rivalry. The golf event in Augusta, Georgia, marks the start of the Masters Tournament, a major championship that draws significant attention from bettors.#mlb #nba #masters_tournament #draftkings #augusta_national_golf_championship
Week of April 6: Five Major MLB Series to Watch as Opening Week Concludes The Opening Week of the 2026 MLB season has wrapped up, but the calendar remains packed with high-stakes matchups. From World Series rematches to the return of a team to its historic ballpark and the debut of baseball’s top prospect, the week of April 6 promises a slate of games that will test the mettle of the league’s best teams. Here’s a breakdown of five series to keep an eye on, each carrying its own narrative, stakes, and potential for drama. The Dodgers and Blue Jays will square off in a three-game series starting Monday, marking the second-earliest World Series rematch in history. The 2025 Fall Classic saw the Dodgers clinch their first repeat championship since the 1998-2000 Yankees, with a thrilling Game 6 and 7 sweep in Toronto. This season’s rematch is a rare opportunity for the Blue Jays to exact revenge, though the Dodgers’ dominance in the series—winning 11 of the last 12 matchups—suggests the challenge will be steep. A key storyline will center on Tuesday’s pitching duel between Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Kevin Gausman. Yamamoto’s historic Game 7 performance in the 2025 World Series, where he pitched 2 2/3 scoreless innings, has left Toronto fans wary. Meanwhile, Gausman has been dominant in 2026, allowing just one run in his first two starts while striking out 21 batters. The Blue Jays’ offense, which narrowly missed the World Series MVP award last year, will need to capitalize on Yamamoto’s potential struggles. The AL Central rivalry between the Royals and Guardians kicks off on Monday as well, with Kansas City looking to break a two-year losing streak against Cleveland. The Royals have dominated the season series in the last decade, winning once in the past 10 campaigns, but the Guardians’ recent surge—led by superstars Bobby Witt Jr.#mlb #yoshinobu_yamamoto #dodgers #blue_jays #kevin_gausman
Clayton Kershaw joins Dodgers front office as special assistant Clayton Kershaw’s career with the Los Angeles Dodgers will officially last beyond his retirement. The future Hall of Famer is joining the organization as a special assistant, according to MLB.com’s Sonja Chen. The specifics of his role with the team are reportedly unclear, but Kershaw expressed his desire to remain involved with the club. “I think I’ll be involved … I still want to be a part of the Dodgers, so if I can help in some small piece, I will,” Kershaw said. Kershaw played his final MLB game last year, winning a second consecutive World Series championship with the Dodgers. He made a return to competitive baseball this spring by joining Team USA for the World Baseball Classic but did not appear in any games during the tournament. The Dodgers’ president of baseball operations, Andrew Friedman, reportedly approached Kershaw about a role in the team’s baseball operations department shortly after the Dodgers’ seven-game victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. Kershaw, who lives with his family in Dallas, declined the full-time offer, stating he did not see another long-term position in his future. Instead, Kershaw will now take on two part-time roles. In addition to his new position with the Dodgers, he is working as part of NBC’s new MLB broadcast crew this season. He made his television debut with the Dodgers’ Opening Day win over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday. Kershaw has been a member of the Dodgers organization since the team drafted him seventh overall in the first round of the 2006 MLB Draft. He retired as an 11-time All-Star, three-time Cy Young Award winner, and former MVP, appearing on three World Series-winning teams. He is the club’s all-time strikeout leader with 3,052.#nbc #mlb #los_angeles_dodgers #clayton_kershaw #andrew_friedman
Seattle Mariners' Cole Young blasts 478-foot moonshot home run Cole Young continued his impressive spring training performance with a record-breaking 478-foot home run during the Seattle Mariners’ 20-8 victory over the Cleveland Guardians in a Cactus League game. The blast, measured by Statcast, marked the longest home run of the 2026 MLB spring training season, surpassing the previous distance by a significant margin. Only two other homers in the spring exceeded 470 feet, according to MLB.com’s Daniel Kramer. The towering shot came in the sixth inning as Young pulled a sweeper from former Mariners reliever Matt Festa, sending the ball soaring into the Arizona night sky. The ball registered an exit velocity of 108.9 mph and cleared the right-center field fence at Goodyear Ballpark. Young also hit a 376-foot home run in the second inning and a two-run double in the third. This spring, Young has been a standout performer, slashing .294/.368/.725 with six home runs and four doubles in 51 Cactus League at-bats. His six homers rank third in all of MLB spring training, behind only Athletics catcher Shea Langeliers and Reds second baseman Matt McLain, who each have seven. Young’s power output has been remarkable for his 5-foot-10, 180-pound frame, and his ability to hit long home runs has been a consistent trait. Young, a 2022 first-round draft pick, made his MLB debut last May and has already made an impact. Last season, he hit the longest home run by any Mariners player, a 456-foot shot into the second deck at T-Mobile Park on July 31. He also hit a 442-foot homer earlier this spring, showcasing his power potential. As a rookie, Young posted a .211/.302/.305 line with four home runs in 77 games. With his strong spring performance, he is expected to start at second base for the Mariners in 2026.#mlb #seattle_mariners #cactus_league #goodyear_ballpark #cole_young
Cubs, Nico Hoerner Agree to 6-Year Extension The Chicago Cubs have secured second baseman Nico Hoerner with a six-year contract extension, keeping him under team control through the 2029 season. The deal, reported by ESPN, prevents Hoerner from becoming a free agent after the 2025 season. Financial details of the agreement remain undisclosed, and the Cubs have not officially announced the signing. Hoerner, 28, struggled in his debut with the Cubs, going 0 for 4 in the team’s Opening Day loss to the Washington Nationals. However, his overall performance in 2024 was impressive. Last season, he posted a .297 batting average with a .345 on-base percentage and .394 slugging percentage, along with 29 stolen bases. His strikeout rate was among the lowest among qualified hitters, and his defensive skills earned him a Gold Glove Award. Over the past four seasons, Hoerner has consistently contributed around 4 wins above replacement (WAR), solidifying his status as one of baseball’s most underrated players. The extension comes as part of a broader effort by the Cubs to retain key players ahead of free agency. Earlier this week, the team also signed center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong to a six-year, $115 million contract. With shortstop Dansby Swanson already locked in through 2029, the Cubs have ensured their infielders—Hoerner, Crow-Armstrong, and Swanson—will remain together for at least three more seasons. All three are Gold Glove defenders, and their combined offensive and defensive value is considered nearly irreplaceable. The decision to extend Hoerner aligns with predictions made by analysts earlier in the season. With several core players set to hit free agency, including Ian Happ, Shota Imanaga, Seiya Suzuki, Jameson Taillon, and others, the Cubs were expected to prioritize long-term deals.#chicago_cubs #mlb #pete_crowarmstrong #nico_hoerner #dansby_swanson
Cubs and Nico Hoerner Agree to 6-Year Contract Infielder Nico Hoerner and the Chicago Cubs have reportedly reached a six-year contract agreement, according to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers. The deal comes as Hoerner, 28, prepares to avoid becoming a free agent after the 2025 season. He was set to enter free agency following the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, having completed a three-year, $35 million contract he signed prior to the 2023 MLB season. Hoerner has established himself as a reliable performer throughout his seven-year professional career. During the 2025 season, he recorded a batting line of .297/.345/.394, contributing 29 doubles, 7 home runs, 61 runs batted in, and 29 stolen bases in 649 plate appearances. His consistent output has made him a valuable asset to the Cubs’ lineup, and the new contract underscores the team’s confidence in his contributions moving forward. The agreement marks a significant development for both parties, as it secures Hoerner’s future with the Cubs for the next six seasons. The deal is expected to provide stability to the team’s infield while offering Hoerner long-term financial security. Details about the contract’s financial terms were not disclosed, but the extension reflects the player’s impact on the roster and his potential for continued growth. This breaking news story will be updated.#2025_season #mlb #nico_hoerner #cubs #jesse_rogers
Sal Stewart, alliteration — and a Cincinnati Reds perfect fit Sal Stewart’s name seems tailor-made for baseball, a sport where alliteration often feels like a lucky charm. The Cincinnati Reds’ new corner infielder, known for his power-hitting potential, has already made an impression with his five home runs in a limited sample during his MLB debut last season. While his performance on the field is impressive, it’s his name that has sparked conversations about how perfectly it fits the game. The Reds, who made a strong push to secure a playoff spot last season, have been actively seeking power hitters to bolster their lineup. Despite acquiring Kyle Schwarber in a free-agent move, the team’s power output remained a concern. Eugenio Suarez’s signing in free agency added depth to their slugging capabilities, but Stewart’s arrival through the organization’s system has introduced a new dynamic. Stewart’s journey to the majors has been marked by high expectations. As a prospect, he was heralded for his potential as a home run hitter, and his arrival in Cincinnati has only reinforced that narrative. His name, with its alliterative flair, has become a talking point among fans and analysts alike. In a sport where names often carry weight, Stewart’s moniker feels like a fitting tribute to his role as a power threat. While the Reds’ decision to sign Stewart isn’t solely based on his name, it’s hard to ignore the symbolism. The team’s pursuit of players with both talent and a strong connection to the game’s culture has paid off, and Stewart’s presence adds a layer of intrigue. His name, after all, is almost a guarantee of a memorable career in baseball. As the Reds look to build on their recent success, Stewart’s potential to deliver on the field will be the true test.#mlb #cincinnati_reds #eugenio_suarez #kyle_schwarber #sal_stewart
Netflix is entering the sports streaming arena Netflix is set to stream its first live sports event, marking a significant shift in its content strategy. The streaming giant will broadcast the Yankees vs. Giants game on March 25, 2026, which serves as the official season opener for Major League Baseball (MLB) that day. This event, the only MLB game scheduled for the date, will be presented as a highlight of the platform’s new approach to sports coverage. Instead of offering full-season packages, Netflix plans to focus on high-profile, must-see moments to redefine how fans engage with live sports online. The decision to spotlight key events reflects a departure from traditional sports broadcasting models. Following the Yankees vs. Giants game, Netflix will stream two additional MLB events: the Home Run Derby in July and the Field of Dreams game in August. This selective approach contrasts with the conventional practice of providing comprehensive coverage for entire seasons. Elle Duncan, Netflix’s first sports anchor, emphasized her enthusiasm for this strategy, stating that prioritizing headline events allows for a more dynamic and engaging viewing experience. She noted that the platform’s focus on iconic moments rather than exhaustive game coverage aligns with evolving audience preferences. The move signals Netflix’s broader ambition to expand into live sports, a market traditionally dominated by networks like ESPN and traditional broadcasters. By leveraging its global reach and technological capabilities, the company aims to attract sports fans who seek convenience and curated content. The Yankees vs. Giants game, a historic rivalry with a large fan base, serves as an ideal debut for this initiative.#giants #netflix #mlb #yankees #elle_duncan
MLB Opening Day Promos and Bonus Offer from bet365 The 2026 Major League Baseball season officially kicked off with the Yankees facing the Giants in a highly anticipated matchup. bet365 Sportsbook is offering new users a $365 bonus through the code FOX365, providing an immediate boost for Opening Day betting. The promotion includes two options: a $10 bet that unlocks $365 in bonus bets or a $1,000 refund if the first real-money wager loses. The Yankees, led by back-to-back American League MVP Aaron Judge, take on the Giants in a game set for Wednesday, March 25, at 8:05 p.m. EDT in San Francisco. Max Fried will start for the Yankees, while Logan Webb will pitch for the Giants. The game’s betting line has the Yankees as -124 favorites, with the Giants at +104. The over/under total is set at 7 runs. The matchup will be streamed on Netflix. To claim the bet365 bonus, new users must create an account, enter the code FOX365, and make a minimum $10 deposit using a supported payment method. Once the qualifying wager settles, the bonus bets are credited within 24 hours. The promotion is available for both the $365 bonus and the $1,000 safety net for first-time bets. Looking at the teams’ recent performance, the Yankees finished the 2025 season with a 94-68 record, while the Giants posted an 81-81 mark. The Yankees’ road record last season was 44-37, and the Giants’ home performance was 42-39. Offensively, the Yankees’ sluggers hit .455 with 1.7 home runs per game, compared to the Giants’ .386 slugging percentage and .697 OPS. The article also highlights broader betting trends, including odds for the 2026 World Series, where the Dodgers are favored to repeat as champions. Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge are top contenders for AL and NL MVP awards, respectively.#giants #bet365 #mlb #aaron_judge #yankees
2026 MLB Predictions: Playoffs, World Series, MVPs and More The 2026 Major League Baseball season kicks off with the Yankees facing the Giants in a Wednesday night opener, followed by 11 Opening Day games on Thursday. With the regular season underway, ESPN’s MLB writers, analysts, and editors have shared their predictions for the year, covering everything from playoff contenders and World Series champions to MVPs, Cy Young winners, and Rookie of the Year finalists. The American League and National League are filled with questions heading into the season. Will the Dodgers become the first team since the 1998-2000 Yankees to three-peat as World Series champions? How will stars like Freddy Peralta (Mets) and Alex Bregman (Cubs) perform in new environments? Which team will dominate the competitive AL East? What will Shohei Ohtani’s first full season as a two-way player look like for the Dodgers? And what surprises might the playoffs bring? While no one can predict the future with certainty, ESPN’s 30 contributors have made their best guesses. Their forecasts span from wild-card contenders to the World Series champion, along with awards in both leagues. For each category, voters have explained their reasoning, though accuracy remains to be seen. The predictions will be revisited in October to assess how well—or poorly—they held up. In the American League, the Yankees are the top pick with 16 votes, despite the Blue Jays’ recent dominance. Voters believe New York’s roster overhaul, including the return of Aaron Judge, Gerrit Cole, and potential contributions from Ben Rice and Carlos Lagrange, could elevate them. The Blue Jays, meanwhile, face challenges with injuries and the departure of Bo Bichette, though their offseason additions like Dylan Cease give them a strong chance.#giants #mlb #espn #yankees #dodgers
2026 MLB Predictions: World Series Champion, Division Winners, Wild Cards The 2026 MLB regular season has begun, with the Opening Night game between the Yankees and Giants airing on Netflix at 8:05 p.m. ET on Wednesday, followed by Opening Day on Thursday. MLB.com staff members have made predictions for the season, including division winners, Wild Cards, league champions, and the World Series outcome. The AL East is expected to be the most competitive division, with the Blue Jays favored to retain their title after a strong 2025 turnaround. Despite losing key players like Bo Bichette, Toronto’s roster includes marquee free agents such as Dylan Cease and Kazuma Okamoto. The team faces challenges with injuries to starters Trey Yesavage, José Berríos, and Shane Bieber but remains a top contender. A division title would mark their first back-to-back championships since 1991-93. Other teams receiving votes include the Yankees, Red Sox, and Orioles. The Tigers are projected to win the AL Central after a strong 2025 season, despite a late-season collapse. Their rotation, featuring Tarik Skubal, Framber Valdez, and Justin Verlander, is considered their strongest since 2014. Offensively, Kevin McGonigle, the No. 2 prospect in MLB, could provide a significant upgrade at shortstop. The Royals are also in the mix for votes. Seattle is the favorite to win the AL West, with a roster that includes MVP threats Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodríguez. The team re-signed Josh Naylor and replaced Eugenio Suárez with Brendan Donovan, bolstering their offense. The Mariners’ pitching staff is considered one of the best in the league, supported by a well-rounded lineup. Other contenders for the West include the Astros, Rangers, and Athletics. The AL Wild Cards are expected to come from the AL East, with the Yankees, Red Sox, and Orioles all in the running.#giants #mlb #yankees #blue_jays #tigers
