“Definitely great players, but I like our chances,” Newsome said, via NFL.com, about facing Lamb and Pickens in Week 1. For Newsome, it will also be his debut in a Giants uniform, and he will have a litmus test right out of the gate, facing divisional rivals with arguably one of the best wide receiver duos in the league.

Although it will be his first game as a Giant at MetLife Stadium, Newsome has faced both Pickens and Lamb before. The former, however, rings a louder bell than the latter, as Newsome and Pickens have faced off as divisional foes before. It was everything one could expect, and more. As they meet again, Newsome embraced his Week 1 matchup against Pickens.

Newsome vs Pickens

Back in the 2024 NFL season, Newsome, then with the Cleveland Browns, and Pickens, then on the Pittsburgh Steelers, met in a Week 12 win for the Dawgs. On the final play, the two got tangled up in a heated scuffle. On a Hail Mary attempt by the Steelers, the No. 1 wideout and No. 1 cornerback forgot about the pigskin, instead holding on to each other and running out of the end zone while still throwing hands at one another.

It was hard to see because of the pouring snowstorm falling down in The Land, but the vitriol between the two was clear to see. After the incident, Pickens fired at Newsome. “I don’t even know who that is,” Pickens said when asked about facing Newsome again ahead of the Browns-Steelers rematch later in 2024. Newsome had words for Pickens, too.

“I don’t take it as disrespectful because I don’t care about the dude at all,” Newsome said back then about Pickens. “Obviously, he’s the guy that cares more so about himself, and you could see that in the penalties that he causes. But me, I’m a professional so I would never let somebody make me do something to hurt my football team.”

Who will Newsome be assigned to?

Two years have passed since the last time Newsome and Pickens met on the gridiron. But fans around the NFL can get the feeling there is no lost love between the two.

Knowing how high emotions will be running, it remains to be seen if John Harbaugh and Dennard Wilson decide to line up Newsome across from Pickens, or if they assign him to Lamb.

With the Cowboys, they boast a one-two punch at wide receiver that basically makes opponents pick their poison, and they will try to make an example out of the revamped organization in the Big Apple. Newsome has poked the bear, the ball is in the Cowboys’ court now, but the final say will be in Week 1’s Sunday Night Football game.

“Shohei Ohtani is not officially ruled out from pitching, ‘but we can all do the math,’ Roberts said,” as reported by The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya. Ohtani is dealing with injuries to his knee, neck and biceps, so it’s easy to see why having him on the mound could do Los Angeles more harm than good in the home stretch of the MLB campaign.

Roberts’ statement allows Dodgers fans to hold on to a sliver of hope, but it doesn’t look like Ohtani will pitch again this year, and fans may not want him to do so, either. After all, there’s a reason the Boys in Blue went after Tarik Skubal and boast a rotation that is the envy of the rest of the league.

All that matters now is getting Ohtani back at the plate as soon and as healthy as possible. Someone else can take care of the mound, and Los Angeles has no shortage of elite options in its rotation.

Ohtani could be back soon

While the latest report on Ohtani put the Dodgers in a tough injured-list dilemma, it seems he won’t miss much more time. Before long, he will be back, as Roberts has now revealed.

“If all goes well [on Sunday], Dave Roberts said Shohei Ohtani will be in there [on the Dodgers’ lineup on Monday],” Ardaya reported on his X account.

The Los Angeles Dodgers will host the Cincinnati Reds on Monday, Sept. 7, and it appears Ohtani, who is considered day-to-day, could return to action in the series opener. Serving as a designated hitter, Ohtani could get key at-bats while not taking many re-injury risks.

Ohtani’s batting stats in 2026

Although what makes Ohtani such a magical and unique phenom in MLB is his two-way ability, he can still put on a show when focusing on one side of the ball. So far in the 2026 MLB season, Ohtani has played 129 games (only pitched in 14) and has recorded 89 runs, 139 hits, 30 home runs, 80 RBIs and 11 stolen bases. Moreover, he has a .279 batting average and a .906 OPS.

Grisham’s injury update made Boone and the Yankees brace for a long-term absence entering the home stretch of the MLB campaign. Moreover, Boone’s ambiguous answer on Aaron Judge’s return means the Yankees are at a premium for outfield answers.

It all adds up to the pressure on Dominguez. Needless to say, his second MLB game in pinstripes since Aug. 3 didn’t go as expected, and Boone put the Dominican on notice afterward.

“[Dominguez] missed it,” Boone said about the outfielder’s grave fielding mistake in the second inning. “Obviously, a play you have to make. Didn’t make it. Fortunately, we were able to get out of that inning.”

Boone sounded off on Dominguez

Although Gerrit Cole made MLB history of the bad kind by allowing home runs in the first three at-bats of the game and was responsible for the four home runs that won San Diego the game, Boone sounded way more frustrated with Dominguez than he did with Cole’s performance.

In fact, judging by his tone, it may be reasonable to believe Dominguez could be taken out of the lineup just one game after being called up from the Triple-A affiliate, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Dominguez’s struggles weren’t limited to the outfield.

He went 1-for-4 at the plate, including a third-out lineout in the eighth inning, when the Bronx Bombers had cut the deficit to 4-3 with three runs. Dominguez’s at-bat killed the momentum before closer Mason Miller took to the mound and recorded his 33rd save of the year. Boone admitted he considered subbing Dominguez out for Heliot Ramos, but shied away from it.

“Yes, [we considered bringing in Ramos for Dominguez]. With Miller going [at the bullpen], I didn’t like that matchup necessarily,” Boone said after the game. “I don’t necessarily think they would have brought him in [against Ramos], though. I was kind of taking my shot there, but I did consider it.“

Dominguez could lose starting role

It remains to be seen if Boone and New York have a decision in store regarding Dominguez. Perhaps the young Triple-A call-up will be taken out of the lineup for a couple of games. Boone and the Yankees won’t want to act on impulse, but the manager sure sounded very upset at the young Pinstriper.

With Judge trending toward a return soon, there may no longer be a spot for the Dominican in the outfield by the time he can get back into the lineup. Aaron Judge, Spencer Jones and Cody Bellinger may soon make up the Yankees’ starting outfield, shutting Dominguez’s 2026 season window entirely.

In fact, the home team’s head coach was asked and didn’t give the green light for the game to resume earlier. As a result, college football fans had to wait longer, Clemson players were forced to stay idle in a hostile away locker room for hours, and it all helped the home team crush the visitors with a memorable scoreboard in NCAA football. It wasn’t luck; it had Kiffin’s hand all over it.

“That [away] locker room sucks over there. This is a real thing. Even when they said ‘Hey, you want to shorten the 90 minutes when we come back?’ I said ‘No, leave it all there. We’ll go out at midnight.’ If you haven’t figured out my competitiveness in order to win,” Kiffin said during his postgame press conference.

“If I’m going through all that other stuff for two players (Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris) nationally, if I think 90 minutes is going to help us win the game, I’m certainly going to sit in the locker room for 90 minutes.”

Kiffin still won’t mention Ole Miss

Months have passed since Kiffin’s chaotic, mid-playoff, headline-grabbing departure from the University of Mississippi to take the head coaching job at Louisiana State University. Still, neither side is letting go, and both are continuously going at each other’s throats.

During his first postgame media availability at LSU, Kiffin kept up a recent trend in which he steers away from naming his former school. Not Ole Miss, not the Rebels, nothing at all. They are now those who shall not be named by Kiffin.

“It’s great to be on this side. I’ve been over there [on the other end] a lot. Three times in the last place, two in Alabama,” Kiffin said on a question about being inside Tiger Stadium as part of the home team rather than a visitor. Kiffin stuttered before naming Ole Miss, but referenced his former school as “the last place”. “I’ve been over there when it’s been really intense, so I was glad to be on this side,” Kiffin concluded his statement.

What’s next for Kiffin’s LSU?

“Imagine if we had pro players,” Kiffin jokingly—and not so much—stated at halftime of his season opener with LSU. Fans across college football may not have to use their imagination for too long. Although neither Wright nor Harris was listed by the Tigers in Week 1, they could make the team in Week 2 and moving forward.

LSU’s schedule will give Kiffin and company no breaks, and they will need every helping hand they can muster, especially the two pairs of hands belonging to players who signed NFL contracts not too long ago. In Week 2, LSU will host Louisiana Tech, coming off an 80-6 win in Week 1, in Baton Rouge. It will provide the Tigers with a chance to iron out details and give their starters some rest late in the game. They will need it.

In Week 3, Kiffin will walk his new program into the lion’s den in Oxford, as the No. 9 Ole Miss Rebels have had their former head coach’s return game circled in red for a long time. In Week 4, the No. 11 LSU Tigers will host the No. 8 Texas A&M Aggies at Tiger Stadium.

Allowing a home run to Padres leadoff batter Fernando Tatis Jr. in the first inning was only the start of a historically bad beginning for Cole in the 2026 MLB season. The Yankees’ starter followed it up by giving up homers to Jake Cronenworth and Manny Machado. The worst part of it was that it wasn’t the first time this happened to Cole, and thus he accomplished what no other starting pitcher in MLB history ever had.

“Gerrit Cole is the only pitcher in MLB history to allow back-to-back-to-back home runs to the first three batters of a game more than once in a career,” according to Talkin’ Baseball on X.

Last time Cole allowed three straight HRs to start a game

Although allowing home runs to the first three batters to start a game is rare on its own, it’s not unprecedented. However, doing so more than once is—or rather, was—until Cole accomplished the negative record during the Yankees’ series finale against the Padres.

The last time Cole had started a game by allowing three straight home runs was on June 9, 2022. Then, the Yankees’ starting pitcher allowed three straight home runs to Luis Arraez, Byron Buxton and Carlos Correa in the Minnesota Twins’ first three at-bats of the game. Cole’s night would be over after only 2.1 innings pitched, as he gave up five homers.

Cole’s abrupt ending saw him finish with eight hits allowed, seven earned runs, two bases on balls, three strikeouts, a 70-45 pitch-to-strike ratio, and a 3.63 ERA. Surprisingly enough, though, the Yankees ended up winning that game 10-7.

Cole’s pitching combinations in three straight home runs

With a 2-2 count, Cole served a knuckle curve right down the middle of the strike zone that Tatis Jr. connected with for a 371-foot homer. Against Cronenworth with a 2-1 count, Cole once again served a ball right down the middle of the zone, only this time it was a four-seam fastball, which the second baseman took 343 feet to the left side of the field.

Lastly, Machado’s home run came on another four-seam fastball, this time lower but still inside the strike zone and with a 2-2 count. Machado went yard with it, sending it 416 feet out to center.

There aren’t many boxes left for Judge to check in his long recovery journey from a stress fracture in his first right rib. However, there is one item left on the list, and one that can only be addressed when the Yankees return home from their road trip to the West Coast.

“See a little live pitching, keep running the bases,” Judge stated, via YES Network, about what boxes he needs to check before returning to gameday action. “It’s kind of getting your feet underneath you so that when we go out here for nine innings we are ready to go and hit the ground running.”

NY Yankees planning Judge’s first live pitching session

“Judge said that he will need to face live pitching ‘a couple times at least before I get back in a game,’“ as stated on the NY Daily News. “He has already faced velocity off various pitching machines, including the Yankees’ Trajekt machine, and he took on-field batting practice for the first time since his injury on Friday at Petco Park.“

The Yankees will be back in the Big Apple on Monday after closing out their road trip in San Diego on Sunday. With Judge targeting the series against the New York Mets for his return—his first MLB appearance since May 31—all signs point to the Bronx Bombers entering the final stretch of Judge’s rehab during the Colorado Rockies series at home. That’s when Judge could finally get a couple of live pitching sessions out of the way.

NY Yankees have yet to decide who will pitch to Judge

However, the Yankees have yet to determine who will be throwing at Judge. Ryan Weathers has only just begun his throwing program, and while Boone has provided clarity on Clarke Schmidt’s return to the Yankees, he remains on a rehab assignment with the Triple-A affiliate, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders.

New York will do right by its star outfielder and find someone who can put him to the test with live pitches, but it has yet to figure out who. “Boone still isn’t sure who is going to throw to Judge [on Monday],” as reported by Gary Phillips of NY Daily News.

Considering how the 2026 MLB season has gone for the Yankees on the medical front, it should be the least of their concerns, but it appears to be an important decision regardless.

Judge will have to find his footing

All signs point to the Subway Series, which will start on Sept. 11, the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks across the United States, as the date for Judge’s return to MLB action. The fact that it’s Judge we’re talking about, who captained Team USA during the 2026 World Baseball Classic, only adds another element to what’s sure to be an emotional event, not only for MLB fans but from sea to shining sea.

Still, Judge can’t get lost in the spotlight. He won’t have much time to settle in before the postseason comes around, so every at-bat is crucial. Moreover, he needs to come out of the dugout red hot in order to improve his season stats.

As things stand, and although it’s been anything but a typical year for him, Judge is registering his worst season since 2020. Through 59 outings, Judge sits on a .248 batting average and a .907 OPS, along with a measly 1.9 WAR. Combining his last two seasons, Judge has set a standard with a .327 AVG, 1.152 OPS, and 10.3 WAR.

Not that his individual stats are what matter most to him, but Judge will surely want to finish the regular season with a better-looking stat line. When you look good, you play good, and that’s all New York cares about for its star outfielder come October.

“Trent Grisham has a Grade 2 hamstring strain. They’re not putting a timetable on his return ‘but he could be’ out for the rest of the regular season,” according to Boone, per Chris Kirschner of The Athletic.

Making his last appearance on Sept. 4 against the San Diego Padres, Grisham has been placed on the 10-day injured list (IL). However, his return timeline suggests he might miss more than the minimum days.

Similar injury for Grisham

Although he’s been placed on the 10-day IL, the Yankees have reason to believe Grisham’s recovery will take longer. According to Greg Joyce of the New York Post, Boone admitted the Grade 2 hamstring strain is quite similar to the one Grisham sustained earlier in the year in June.

Back then, it took three weeks before the 29-year-old outfielder was able to return to action. Thus, he could be in for a similar timeline in September. The problem is that would leave him with virtually no room to return before the end of the regular season.

Giving Grisham a series of at-bats so he can get back in rhythm is crucial for New York, but perhaps a luxury the Bronx Bombers can’t afford with Grisham. Yankees fans have been critical of Grisham’s play time and again over the years, but they still acknowledge his big role, especially as New York is still without Aaron Judge.

Who is replacing Grisham?

Although Jasson Dominguez was called up from the Yankees’ Triple-A affiliate, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, he will serve the Yankees in right field. Grisham’s direct replacement in center field will be Spencer Jones, at least for the rubber match against the Padres.

With Judge trending toward a return before Grisham, New York could soon start an outfield with Judge, Jones, and Bellinger from right to left.

According to a report from MLB insider Jeff Passan, that’s the way things are looking for the Dodgers. Gearing up for the final month of the regular season and the postseason, it seems all but certain Los Angeles’ best player won’t be available on the mound.

“At this point, what’s becoming clear, and far likelier, is that we’re not going to see Shohei Ohtani pitch again,” Jeff Passan reported on SportsCenter. “While the Dodgers have plenty of starting pitching depth, they were hoping that one of their best starters and a guy who was in Cy Young mix when he was pitching would be around come October.”

Dodgers’ starting rotation faces setbacks

Although a household name and the best player in MLB, Ohtani is only another name added to the long list of injuries in the Dodgers’ starting rotation. Los Angeles has yet to decide whether Ohtani will be placed on the injured list. Either way, the IL is filled with Dodgers’ starters. Roki Sasaki and Eric Lauer are on the 15-day IL, while Gavin Stone remains on the 60-day IL.

As things stand, with Ohtani considered day-to-day, the Boys in Blue are rocking with a four-man rotation: Tarik Skubal, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell, and Tyler Glasnow. Not too shabby, but being without Ohtani still hurts.

The Dodgers don’t always employ Ohtani as an ace, but it’s still nice to have the option. With the 32-year-old Japanese star dealing with injuries on more than one front, that seems to be off the table for LA. They will have to make do without Ohtani and chase a three-peat in MLB with him as a pure position player.

Ohtani’s injury

Ohtani has been inactive since his last appearance on Sept. 2. He is dealing with inflammation in his left knee and discomfort in his right biceps. Moreover, Passan noted that he isn’t fully healed from a neck strain that’s bothered him throughout the 2026 MLB season.

In his last five games, Ohtani has recorded just two hits, leading his batting average on the season to drop from .285 to .279. Ohtani’s OPS has also steadily declined from .927 to .901.

Ohtani hasn’t played since Sep. 2, as he deals with injuries on several fronts. Soon, the Dodgers will have to make a decision about placing the Japanese superstar on the injured list, but it isn’t that easy. Moreover, insider Jeff Passan dropped a deflating update on where Ohtani stands health-wise. Based on the report, the Dodgers will lose Ohtani as a pitching option for the remainder of the season.

“Don’t forget about [Ohtani’s] neck strain, either. Shohei Ohtani is all kinds of banged up right now,” Passan stated on SportsCenter. “The Dodgers need to figure out whether they are going to put him on the injured list.”

Why IL means more for Ohtani, Dodgers

As Passan commented, an IL designation for Ohtani would be different from one for most players around MLB. That’s because Ohtani is a two-way player, not a mere position player. That distinctive trait that Los Angeles has exploited with Ohtani would come at a cost.

“Because if they do [place Ohtani on IL], because he is a two-way player that means he would have to go in for 15 days, rather than the 10 for a position player,” Passan explained. “At that point, you’re starting to push against the edge of the end of the regular season to get those at-bats and get him back in rhythm once he comes off the injured list.”

Dodgers need Ohtani in postseason

The Dodgers are first in the NL West with an 85-57 record and the third-best record across all of MLB. Barring an improbable disaster, their ticket to the postseason is punched. They could go the rest of the regular season without Ohtani and suffer no setbacks. However, they need to get Ohtani back in action and find his footing before the playoffs come around.

Indeed, Los Angeles is so stacked that one could make the case it’s a World Series favorite even without Ohtani, but having Ohtani healthy and—most importantly—firing on all cylinders just puts them on another level, one that no other team in the Show may be able to reach.

Dodgers must make IL decision

Thus, a decision about placing Ohtani on the injured list is crucial. The Dodgers could place Ohtani on the 15-day IL, making it retroactive to Sept. 3, meaning the pitcher-batter could return on Sept. 18, with nine games left on the regular-season schedule.

Whatever decision the team lands on, it must get moving and make it fast. The clock is ticking, the postseason is around the corner, and Ohtani needs as much rest and treatment as he can get.

“Chisholm Jr. will likely need to sign a one-year prove it deal to regain his value,” Pat Ragazzo wrote on FanSided’s Rising Apple. “Chisholm Jr. is one year removed from posting a 30/30 season in 2025, and the Mets need a second baseman. It feels like they could be linked to Chisholm in free agency this offseason.”

Although Chisholm Jr. put MLB on notice with a “winning mindset” confession and made it clear his mind is fully set on winning the World Series with the Yankees, free agency is still knocking at his door whether he cares to look through the peephole or not. With the postseason looming, so is free agency, and that means rumors will only continue to grow louder.

Jazz could fit right in with NY Mets

When it comes to Chisholm’s future, a job with the cross-town neighbors could make sense. Staying in the Big Apple could be the perfect move for Chisholm Jr. It might come at the expense of how Yankees fans see him, but the 2026 MLB season has proven that many didn’t hesitate to be harsh critics of the former two-time All-Star.

Moreover, he could avoid switching addresses, only having to move his equipment from the clubhouse in the Bronx to the one in Queens. For the Mets, the move could also make sense, as they need a second baseman while they wait for former first-round pick in 2025 Mitch Voit, who also plays shortstop, to be Show-ready.

Needless to say, Chisholm Jr.’s arrival in Queens wouldn’t be like Juan Soto’s back in Dec. 2024 or even Luke Weaver’s signing last free agency. Coming off a head-scratching contract year in 2025, Jazz would have a lot to prove, and his contract will reflect those question marks surrounding him.

Chisholm finally meeting expectations

Regardless, the infielder, who will be 29 next season, has recently found his footing. It took a while, but the results are finally showing for him. Jazz’s hitting improved in August, as he finished the month with a .244 batting average and .703 OPS. He’s off to a hot start to September, too, with a .375 AVG and 1.194 OPS. The sample size is very small, but he is sending the right signals all the same.

If Chisholm can keep his recent performances up, he may enter free agency with a revamped stock. Moreover, if he can perform in the postseason, there’s reason to believe the Bronx Bombers may retain him, as long as Chisholm Jr. wants to stay on a pinstripes uniform.

Throughout the season, Chisholm Jr. has said so little about his plans for free agency that it’s virtually impossible to tell what he wants for his future. It appears he will cross that bridge when he gets to it, and by the time he becomes a UFA, he hopes his name tag also reads “World Series champion” next to it.

Chisholm Jr. has balled out in Queens

As much criticism as Chisholm’s 2026 MLB season can receive, his performances in Queens leave no room for complaints. The Yankees’ infielder put on a show during his visits to Citi Field, as he’s put up a .583 batting average and 1.417 OPS at that venue this year.

Although the Yankees dropped the road series against the Mets 2-1, Chisholm wasn’t to blame. He went 7-for-12 at the plate, recording three runs and driving in two more.

Perhaps in foreshadowing fashion, Citi Field has been where Chisholm Jr. has put up his best numbers on the season. Maybe it’s a sign of what stadium he should call home in MLB, or it may only be that Jazz is meant to torment the cross-Big Apple foes with the Bronx Bombers.

All eyes are on the Red Wings’ search for their next general manager. Detroit reportedly faces an urgent timeline to hire its new GM amid the Larkin trade request saga, but all hope isn’t lost just yet. In fact, if the Wings land the right candidate, Larkin might think twice before waiving his no-trade clause.

“I think maybe the change in management might—and I’m not speaking for Larkin—but it might change the dynamic a little bit to make him want to stay. I’m not sure that he ends up being traded,” Kevin Weekes said about Larkin’s future with the Red Wings on Off The Roster.

If the Red Wings want to keep Larkin, they might be down to their last bullet in the chamber. Parting with Yzerman was a move in the right direction, but they must seal the deal now. However, while it would do wonders for the lineup, retaining Larkin after the captain cost them so much in the offseason and dragged the franchise’s reputation through the mud may not sit well with the fanbase.

Fans could oppose

Although Larkin walking back his trade request and starting the 2026-27 NHL season with the Red Wings remains a possibility, it wouldn’t come without a price. Most fans in Detroit have turned on Larkin and believe there is no going back.

It has been made clear time and again throughout the offseason. Red Wings fans are returning the favor. Larkin asked to leave the organization, and the fanbase isn’t counting on him anymore.

No way back for Larkin

Thus, even if Larkin changes his mind and decides he wants to stay in Motor City, he will likely be treated to a hostile welcome when the puck drops. Some fans don’t agree and believe having Larkin on board makes the team better.

In fact, most will share that thought. Detroit is better with Larkin, but many don’t care. They feel betrayed by the home-state captain and want him gone. It’s no longer about doing what’s best for the organization; pride and pettiness are involved now.

Staying with Red Wings could be for the worse

If Larkin is to start the season in Detroit, he will likely be booed all night long. It may wane as the days pass, but that would require the team to string together wins and Larkin to get off to the best start of his career. In more ways than one, by staying put, Larkin would be facing a lot more pressure than if he were to leave.

It’s been a long time since he asked out, and he hasn’t given the Red Wings many options to trade him in the NHL. The time for refunds is over, and it appears to be too late for Larkin to have a change of heart—at least, to do so and expect love and mercy from the fans. If he ends up staying, he will have to win them over.

Although Tracy’s latest update on Adley Rutschman’s injury failed to clear up concerns, the catcher is back in the lineup for his first game back in Baltimore since being traded to the Red Sox. However, Rafaela has now been removed from the lineup, leading to yet another injury scare for the BoSox during the 2026 MLB campaign. Asked about the severity of Rafaela’s injury and how long he may be out, Tracy didn’t quite have definitive answers.

“Tracy said it’s premature to say it’s only a couple of days with Rafaela,” as reported by MassLive’s Christopher Smith. “It’s hard to say at this point. I think that’ll maybe become more clear over the next couple of days,” Tracy admitted. “We’re not going to put him out there until we see good improvement.”

Rafaela will get worked on sore quad

The Red Sox know how crucial the 25-year-old outfielder is to their entire operation. Both on defense and at the plate, Rafaela is impossible to miss night in and night out. He’s also a vocal leader. That was made clear when he blasted MLB umpires for the controversial call in the 16-1 loss against the New York Yankees.

Although Boston won’t rush Rafaela back, nor will it take any unnecessary risks, Tracy admitted the center fielder will receive treatment on his right quad. That will also help the team’s medical staff understand what they are dealing with and determine the best path forward.

“He’s still sore. Still some tightness and soreness in there,” Tracy commented on Rafaela’s health. “So obviously off. And then we’ll essentially be day-to-day. He’s going to get treatment like crazy and he’ll be day-to-day to see how he feels and how he’s progressing.”

Red Sox set to be without best bat

Losing Rafaela for an uncertain period of time means Boston will need other bats to step up to the challenge. Rafaela boasts the best batting average among all Red Sox players at .282, as well as a .760 OPS. Perhaps his absence—for as long as it may be—serves as the perfect opportunity for a player like Trevor Story to win back the fans in The Hub.

Since his return from injury and rehab assingment, Story has been red-hot, carrying a four-game hitting streak and delivering in clutch moments. This may be his litmus test, though, and an unparalleled chance to make up for the wasted time and past tensions.

Still, there may finally be progress. After months of slow-moving business and refreshing his inbox only to see everything stay the same, Laine may actually be getting interest from teams across the NHL. A report at least suggests that four teams are showing interest.

Namely, and in no particular order, the Toronto Maple Leafs, Florida Panthers, Dallas Stars, and Tampa Bay Lightning. This is according to Ottawa Citizen reporter Bruce Garrioch, who also hinted that the Ottawa Senators looked into Laine but that it may only be a false alarm.

Maple Leafs and Panthers seem favorites

The Maple Leafs have long been linked to Laine. So much so that a trade between the Montreal Canadiens and the Buds stopped sounding like a crazy thing to happen in the NHL. That’s how much the Leafs were rumored to be testing the waters around Laine.

Still, for whatever reason, a trade involving Laine between the eternal Canadian foes never happened. Laine’s contract has expired, and he is now up for grabs. Toronto doesn’t have much to lose, so it could be the perfect opportunity.

As for the Panthers, we’ve talked about how great a fit the two are countless times and why it makes sense on virtually every front. The fact that Florida is set to miss Brad Marchand for some time only makes Laine an even more appealing solution.

Question marks around Laine

Every team is aware of what a healthy Laine can bring to the ice. Toronto, Florida, Dallas, Tampa Bay, and even those franchises that haven’t expressed interest know what he is capable of. However, the real dilemma is how much an NHL organization might be willing to pay and commit, and whether the once 40-plus-goal scorer will accept it.

Laine running out of options

Running out of time in the hourglass, Laine may have no option but to sign a professional tryout deal (PTO). There doesn’t seem to be a bidder with a better offer, at least not in North America. It’s either that or traveling across the Atlantic to the Old World.

Laine is still relatively young, so a strong season in Europe could land him back in the NHL, but it remains a risky gamble. Oftentimes, there is no coming back, and a year out of the league doesn’t always pan out.

Skattebo and Harbaugh may not be two peas in a pod, but they get along and share a common goal. Skattebo made his stance clear with complimentary remarks about Harbaugh and his first few months at the Giants’ helm. Coming off the season-ending injury that cut his rookie year short, Skattebo knows he is in for a big test in the 2026 NFL season.

It’s been a long recovery journey, one that Skattebo admitted even had him considering retirement from the NFL, but he can see the light at the end of the tunnel now. It would be a shame for his progress to be tarnished by reports of vitriol between him and his head coach, so Skattebo made sure to nip them all in the bud.

“Me and [John Harbaugh], we’re on the same page, we love each other,” Skattebo said on the Up & Adams Show with Kay Adams. “Me and him talk every single day, there’s no bad blood between us.“

Harbaugh called out Skattebo

The rumor mill around Skattebo and Harbaugh has been busy for a while. Everything started when Skattebo was the lit match that led to a fight in practice between the Giants’ offense and defense. After the session, Harbaugh explained how the running back’s energy is a double-edged sword the team must keep in check. His analogy came off a bit harsher, though.

“He got a 15-yard penalty at the end of practice. Did you see that? Yeah, it’s infectious. It can be infectious the other way, an infectious disease type of thing. We want it to be in a positive way,” Harbaugh said weeks ago about the energy Skattebo brings day in and day out in East Rutherford.

Skattebo clears the air

The buzz hinting at a rift between the first-year head coach in New York and the second-year halfback only grew louder as the two were caught by cameras having a not-so-friendly talk during a preseason game. Of course, that clip has been bastardized and taken out of context. During his interview with Kay Adams, Skattebo cleared the air on both controversies involving him and the Super Bowl-winning head coach.

“I think that comment was more so that what I did was infectious, an infectious disease in that moment. And not that I’m an infectious person. I think that’s how he meant it. We didn’t really talked about it, we kind of moved on from it. It wasn’t a big deal,” Skattebo commented on Harbaugh’s message about him back during training camp.

About the recent sideline controversy, “Skatt” made it clear it was only a conversation about game situations, and nothing personal. With the controversy cleared out of the way, the G-Men can focus on what’s really important and that is their upcoming season opener against the Dallas Cowboys. On the first Sunday Night Football of the 2026 season, the Giants will wear their traditional Big Blue uniforms.

NY Giants leave drama behind

Although most fans knew better than to read too much into the social media-led controversy around Skattebo and Harbaugh, it’s valuable for the running back to address the issue and put it to rest.

The Giants have much bigger fish to fry going into the 2026 NFL season and have put together a strong roster to make some noise. It would be a shame for off-field narratives to derail the campaign before it even starts.

However, there’s a big difference, and perhaps the reason why Hellebuyck might be traded and Larkin may not, or at least why Hellebuyck could be shipped off faster or more smoothly from Winnipeg ahead of the 2026-27 NHL season. Both have five years left on their contracts and hold no-trade clauses. But while Larkin has only submitted a three-team trade list (Minnesota, Florida, and Vegas) for the Red Wings to work with, Hellebuyck is much more open-minded and willing to waive his NMC.

“It does and has continued to sound like [Hellebuyck is] a lot more open to different scenarios than some of the other guys like Dylan Larkin, which is why you’re hearing teams like Utah and San Jose [for Hellebuyck],” as stated by David Pagnotta on Jets at Noon.

The goaltender has learned the lesson. Being picky about his next club hasn’t done Larkin any good, he’s still in Detroit months after asking out, and fans in his home state have turned on him. Thus, Hellebuyck is reportedly going with a different strategy. Maybe it will help him reach his end goal—being traded—faster and without completely burning a bridge along the way.

Hellebuyck and Jets face less tension, but tense regardless

Hellebuyck going public with his trade request will come at a price for Winnipeg, which lost virtually all its leverage when the news broke. But still, Hellebuyck is giving the Jets a bit more leeway to explore the market and come away with the offer they feel is best. Larkin, on the other hand, hasn’t given Detroit that privilege, and there is little hope he will.

The Red Wings hold on to a sliver of hope that Larkin will walk back his trade request, but he isn’t budging for the time being. When all sides of the U.S. Olympians’ trade requests are put together, it’s clear to see Hellebuyck and the Jets are in a better place than Larkin and the Wings.

For starters, Detroit currently has no general manager in place, directionlessly wandering through a crucial stage of the NHL offseason and set to embark on a nerve-wracking stretch. In fact, a report reveals the Red Wings face an urgent timeline to hire a new GM amid Larkin’s situation.

Which teams could be in on Hellebuyck?

Long story short, about 25 of the 31 teams (not counting the Jets) in the NHL would love to land Hellebuyck. However, not every team is a good fit for him or can actually pull the trade off. That leaves the favorites: the Buffalo Sabres, Carolina Hurricanes, and New Jersey Devils.

Other teams to keep an eye on are the San Jose Sharks and Utah Mammoth, who are on a steady upward trend. A blockbuster move for arguably the best goalie in the NHL could be what puts them firmly in the conversation and opens their championship window.

Lastly, fans can’t overlook the usual suspects in the Vegas Golden Knights and Florida Panthers. Both have some cap and roster dilemmas to figure out, but that rarely stops them from making moves.

Although for different reasons, both Peters and Romo received backlash for their baserunning. The White Sox center fielder went all in rushing home and was thrown out, while the catcher, on the other hand, shied away from making a run at home plate. After the 2-0 loss to the Astros, Venable defended Peters’ decision but questioned Romo’s.

“Tristan [Peters] did the right thing by going and obviously [we] just weren’t able to advance the backside runners,” Venable said postgame, via the Chicago Sun-Times. “I think [Romo] was a little hesitant there, he’s a really good baserunner, and just not a great read.”

Venable admits he would go back in time

Asked whether sending in a pinch-runner for Romo, who could in turn be replaced by catcher Jake Rogers afterwards, Venable didn’t sugarcoat his thoughts. If he could go back in time, he would make the decision in a heartbeat.

“We talked about it and we thought we’d trust Drew [Romo] there. He was catching a shutout,” Venable stated during his postgame media availability. “If you go back, probably would have chose to [send a pinch runner]. It was a decision that we talked about, thought that we were in a good spot, and trusted Drew to make the right move.“

Of course, hindsight is 20/20, and there’s no going back for the White Sox. The Pale Hose have now lost three of their last four outings in the 2026 MLB season. As a result, Chicago has witnessed its lead over the Cleveland Guardians drop to three games in the race for the AL Central division pennant.

Romo faces more backlash

Although his defensive play is out of the question, Romo has faced harsh criticism all year long for his struggles at the plate. So far, he has posted a .141 batting average, which ranks among the worst on the team.

The concerning statistics extend to his figures in on-base percentage (.239), slugging percentage (.288), and OPS (.527). In addition to that, his recent, costly, hesitant move on the basepaths has put him in the eye of the storm once again.

However, we should learn soon if there will indeed be a farewell game for Messi. A recent report indicated Messi is expected to play one final match with Argentina. However, it may not be only one game, but a series of outings played across the country, instead.

“Argentina are working to arrange two or three friendly matches in September,” as reported by TNT Sports Argentina’s Maximiliano Grillo. “The games are expected to be played in Buenos Aires, Cordoba and/or Rosario, with the opponents yet to be confirmed.”

One game isn’t enough

One farewell game might be enough to honor certain legends, but certainly not one of Messi’s stature and significance. Thus, it seems Argentina will have themselves a farewell tour rather than a lone leave-taking match. Because no soccer fan in Argentina will want to miss Messi’s last game ever wearing the Albiceleste’s jersey, it’s only fair to host more than one outing and in different venues.

Buenos Aires is a lock. The country’s capital city has the biggest population and is home to Estadio Monumental, where Argentina plays most of its games and which can host over 85,000 fans, more than any other venue in the Land of Silver. Cordoba and Rosario appear to be competing for the other game, while the chance of adding a third would solve that dilemma.

Rosario and Cordoba may have to fight for Messi

Rosario, Messi’s hometown, simply makes too much sense, even if the game would be held at Rosario Central’s stadium, which is the home of Messi’s childhood club’s (Newell’s Old Boys) archrivals.

Cordoba’s biggest stadium, named after 1978 World Cup winner Mario Alberto Kempes, has hosted several national team games over the years. Moreover, Cordoba’s capital is the second-most populated city in the country, with Rosario third. Its location also helps people from northern provinces get the chance to see Messi without traveling all the way to Buenos Aires.

It’s clear a three-game slate is the best solution for Argentina. It may not thrill the clubs who allow their players to represent Argentina during the international window, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Why three-game farewell tour could raise eyebrows

Messi is in the clear. He plays in MLS, where his duties are far more relaxed and he gets to decide when he feels like taking a break. If he wants to play more games with Argentina than Inter Miami would like, there isn’t much the Herons can do about it. Plus, it would be just this one last time.

However, players who compete in Europe may face more resistance from their clubs. As it is, no club ever likes the risk that international breaks pose. An extra game would likely be greeted with a huge “No, thank you” from European clubs. Still, this is an Argentina national team that loves Messi. The majority of the locker room is made up of young players who grew up idolizing Messi and never take playing alongside him for granted.

Thus, if they get the chance to play with him one final time, and do so in Argentina, there’s not much that will keep them from lacing up their cleats. No one will want to miss Messi’s final game in Argentina in an Albiceleste jersey, least of all the players. They may be world soccer stars, but they still look up to the Argentine ace like kids watching their idol.

However, far from letting that get to him, the 26-year-old Venezuelan sent manager Craig Counsell and company a powerful message. Palencia, though young, has faced adversity before and has proven he can bounce back from rough nights like the one he had against the Brewers at Wrigley Field.

“It’s been tough, for sure, but this is baseball. I’m going to have bad days. This is not me. I want the ball tomorrow,” Palencia said while urging the Cubs to send him to the mound again for the third matchup of the four-game series, via the Chicago Sun-Times.

Entering the game in the sixth inning, Palencia was taken out after facing two batters. He allowed two hits, two runs and a home run while failing to strike out a batter. His numbers for the night included 12 pitches, nine for strikes, as well as a 4.95 ERA. Under his watch, the Brewers took the lead, and that’s why he was pinned the loss on his MLB season résumé.

Cubs announce starting pitcher

The Cubs announced David Peterson will start the third game against the Brewers on Chicago’s North Side. Peterson’s last start for Chicago was on Aug. 28, when the club fell to the Cincinnati Reds 10-8.

Whether Palencia is given the nod by Counsell as a reliever or gets the night off remains to be seen. It may depend on how the Cubs fare in an electric duel between two of the best offenses in Major League Baseball. So far, the series’ overall score is 21-12 in favor of Chicago.

Palencia’s numbers in 2026

Well into his fourth year in MLB, the Cubs’ reliever has struggled to replicate the success he had in 2025. So far, Palencia has appeared in 23 games, pitching a total of 20 innings and recording 24 strikeouts and seven walks while allowing 22 hits and 11 runs. Although not a closer, Palencia has recorded three saves and blown another.

Through his 23 appearances, the World Baseball Classic-winning reliever has posted a –0.1 WAR, 4.95 ERA, and 1.45 WHIP. All of these are downgrades from his strong 0.6 WAR, 2.91 ERA, and 1.14 WHIP in 2025, all career highs.

Still, a report indicates that the average annual value range for the defenseman’s next contract is set, and it may only be a matter of ironing out the final details and getting Hughes’ signature. It may sound easy, but Wild fans should know that’s usually one of the hardest things to do. For the time being, they might be better off staying wary than becoming overconfident.

“What does [Hughes] want? Because the money is going to be the money. It’s going to be probably somewhere in between Macklin Celebrini [18.8m AAV] and Cale Makar [20.4m AAV]. That’s going to be his number, we all strongly suspect,” Jeff Marek stated on The Sheet with Jeff Marek.

Hughes could match Makar

It was always expected that Makar and Hughes would mirror or at least take inspiration from each other’s contracts. Whoever signed first would set the bar, and it was wise to think Makar would put pen to paper first.

At the end of the day, the Colorado Avalanche’s blueliner never hinted he wanted to leave the Mile High City, while Hughes has left the door to his future virtually wide open. Now that Makar has put pen to paper on the largest contract in NHL history, and by a wide margin, Hughes could follow suit.

However, although Hughes could match Makar’s AAV, there’s no way he reaches Makar’s $163.2 million total value because the Olympic gold medalist has no interest in signing a max-term contract. Most likely, he will agree to a mid-term deal, around two or three years long. Still, what exactly Hughes wants to see from Minnesota to be convinced remains a mystery.

Hughes leaves Wild in the dark

“Is it [Hughes] needs [GM Bill] Guerin to show him he has the team to be competitive for the next, however many, years? What is it as when Guerin mentions ‘[Hughes] may want different things’? What are those things?” Jeff Marek said.

For the time being, the Wild remain clueless about Hughes’ needs and wishes. As a result, Minnesota remains in the dark, and rumors continue to haunt them with the prospect of losing him soon. In the meantime, the New Jersey Devils can’t help salivate and steeple their fingers. It might finally go down.

“We vehemently reject the NBA’s findings, which are the result of a heavily biased investigation seeking to justify a predetermined narrative rather than facts and evidence,” the Clippers’ statement read, according to insider Shams Charania.

After Leonard and the Clippers were strongly punished by the NBA—affecting five first-round picks and over $30 million in fines—the organization in the City of Angels won’t accept the results of the investigation. The Clippers believe they were never judged fairly and that the NBA was only looking to cherry-pick its way to fulfill a narrative. Moreover, the franchise didn’t hesitate to go after league commissioner Adam Silver, calling him out for being two-faced.

“What the league told us privately differs from what it announced today publicly, and they have not held themselves close to the standard Commissioner Silver set at the start of this investigation to ensure it’s fairness and accuracy,” the team’s statement read.

Can the Clippers appeal NBA’s sanctions?

The Los Angeles Clippers have put on their gloves and tucked in their mouth guard. They made that very clear. “For the past year, we cooperated fully and in good faith and we will now fight just as hard to demonstrate our innocence,” the organization stated. “We intend to vigorously challenge these findings and penalties through every avenue available to us and look forward to an ethical and impartial arbitration process.“

However, they may have no grounds to make their case. Well, only one, and it’s in court. “The NBA’s rulings are final,” Shams Charania reported on his X account. “There is no formal appeal or arbitration process available to the Clippers with the league. LA’s only outlet to fight the punishment is in court.”

Judging by the Clippers’ tone and the vigor of their statement, going down that path can’t be ruled out, and in fact, is to be expected. Los Angeles is holding its ground, and it won’t go down without a fight. Its pride is in the mud now. Not only have the Clippers been found guilty of circumventing the cap, but the organization’s honesty has also been put in question. There is no lower place for the team to reach, so it makes sense for them to fight their way up.

It’s on between the Clippers and the NBA

It has truly hit the fan now. The Clippers aren’t going down without a fight, and the NBA has made its decision final. Something has to give. Although he’s been suspended from all league and team activities for one year, owner Steve Ballmer will hold his ground, and his duel with Commissioner Silver is now set to be a compelling storyline in the offseason.

The dog days of summer are over now, and in Inglewood, it’s SummerSlam time. The Clippers are set to enter the ring against the league, and everybody knows only one can walk away from it in one piece.

“Integrity and respect for this game are fundamental to who I am. I accept full responsibility for lapses in judgment by people within my inner circle and regret the distraction this situation has caused the fans and my family,” Leonard stated through his agent, as reported by NBA insider Shams Charania.

“I entered into my contract with the Clippers as well as the agreements in question in good faith, fully committed to fulfilling my obligations and with no knowledge of any intent on anyone’s part to circumvent the salary cap. For 15 years, my priority has been giving everything to my family, the game, and those I share the court with. As I return to Toronto, I am focused on what I can control, closing this chapter, and moving forward with a clean slate.”

Kawhi denies being aware of cap-circumventing antics

As Leonard made clear in his statement after the NBA‘s investigation into his Clippers contract resulted in costly sanctions for both him and his former organization, he was unaware of the team’s intentions to circumvent the salary cap. However, the NBA’s statement says otherwise, finding Leonard—or at least his then-manager, Dennis Robertson—to be a culprit.

“Mr. Leonard, through the conduct of Mr. Robertson on his behalf, violated the circumvention rules by pressuring the Clippers to assist him in obtaining off-court income opportunities, successfully obtaining those opportunities, and failing to reimburse payments by the Clippers for personal expenses,” the NBA’s official statement read.

For his alleged role in the salary-cap circumvention, the NBA handed Kawhi Leonard a $700,000 fine. Still, Leonard didn’t receive as harsh a punishment as the other parties involved in the investigation.

No suspension means Kawhi’s Toronto trade faces no danger

Leonard received no suspension, while Clippers owner Steve Ballmer (one-year suspension), President of Business Operations Gillian Zucker (one-year suspension), and President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank (six-month suspension) can’t say the same. As for Leonard’s former agent, Robertson has been banned from the NBA and its affiliates for five years.

All the while, the Clippers are subject to a compliance and monitoring program. Leonard, however, will be able to play from the start of the 2026-27 NBA season.

Thus, as he faces no suspension and must only pay the NBA roughly 1.4% of his salary for the season, his trade to the Toronto Raptors should face no danger. Kawhi himself confirmed it, stating, “As I return to Toronto…” in his open letter after the penalties were announced.

Kawhi Leonard’s contract

With all the noise surrounding Leonard’s cap-circumventing contract, many fans wonder what his actual deal looks like. Kawhi signed a three-year, $149.5 million contract with the Clippers running through the 2026-27 NBA season.

Under this deal, Leonard made an average salary of $49.8 million. During the next campaign, though back in The Six, Kawhi will be paid a guaranteed salary of $50.3 million by the franchise he led to glory back in 2019.

Speaking his mind on Murakami’s performance in August, former White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen, who led the Pale Hose to their last World Series title in 2005, sent a clear message. Or rather an instruction for manager Will Venable and the coaches in Chicago’s South Side.

“[Murakami] is not seeing the ball well, he’s just freelancing, and hopeful to get a hit. I think they have to talk to him and say: ‘You know what? Don’t try to hit home runs, try to hit the balls in the middle of the field’. And hopefully the swing will go back to normal,” Guillen stated on 104.3 The Score Chicago.

Guillen proposes batting order change

Often batting second in Chicago’s order, Murakami has struggled mightily as of late. Murakami struck out 46 times in August. Based on his 102 total at-bats during the month, he’s been punched out 45.1% of the time. In August, Murakami recorded a .147 average, .304 OBP, .343 SLG, and .647 OPS, which affected his season numbers. What was a .985 OPS dropped to .848 after Murakami’s Abysmal August.

For Guillen, a change is in order. With the Cleveland Guardians breathing down the South Siders’ necks, Chicago needs to find answers down the stretch and heading into the postseason.

“They should put him down like seven [on the batting order], move him down a little bit for a couple of days. Because when you’re batting second and you strike out that much, you kill a lot of rallies. I think that’s the solution right now,” Guillen admitted.

Surprise factor is gone for Murakami

When he arrived in MLB, Murakami knocked it out of the park—quite literally. Through his first three games in America, Murakami hit three home runs, and he finished March with a .278 batting average, .409 OBP, .778 SLG, and 1.187 OPS. It felt like the second coming of Jesus had walked into Rate Field; perhaps the White Sox had Pope Leo XIV to thank for that.

However, Murakami has been slowed down since. The rest of the league came up with answers and challenges of its own for the 26-year-old first-year international player, who hasn’t cleared them yet.

“Yeah, it’s brutal [to send Bednar out in that situation]. That’s one of those you hate, especially with who [Bednar] is. Obviously how good he’s been, but just the leader he is down there. We knew the reality going in of the situation. It’s part of it, you’re going to have games like that where your closer has got to pick up an inning in a lower leverage spot,” Boone admitted on the Talkin’ Yanks podcast.

Boone’s statement paints a clear picture of the complex decisions managers must make throughout the MLB campaign. Although Bednar being used late in a lost game raised eyebrows and complaints from several fans, it’s already a fading memory. Although the bullpen decision made waves, the Yankees are moving on, and Boone has revealed details on the pitching plan for Max Fried and Will Warren ahead of the next series against the Colorado Rockies.

One game takes nothing away from the season

It’s one of the bittersweet aspects of the season being so long. Games matter, but they don’t at the same time. An individual outing is basically irrelevant, other than from a statistical standpoint, especially for pitchers. However, playing a closer in a non-save scenario, with the game as over as New York’s first outing in Anaheim was, is never a good look.

For a manager as under the microscope as Boone is in the Bronx, it was far from ideal. The Yankees’ manager excused himself and explained why the decision was made, but it still doesn’t sit well with many fans. Though, in all fairness, many fans have long made up their minds about the team’s coach, and it really doesn’t matter what he does or says. The die is cast.

“You hate it, you hate when there are some runs given up. A bad night kind of turns the knife a little bit. Because of what he means to our group and culture. I hated that but that’s also one of the realities of the 162 games and the grind that it is,” Boone concluded. “You’re going to have days where it’s not pretty and you got to do some things that you don’t want to do, obviously.”

Bednar’s stats in 2026

So far, Bednar has pitched 59.1 innings, recording 65 strikeouts and 18 walks for a 3.6 K/BB ratio. Moreover, he has posted a 2.73 ERA and 1.03 WHIP. His 31 saves this year are tied for fifth among MLB closers and are already his most in a season since being traded to the Yankees in 2025. Bednar is eight saves away from matching his career high for a season (39 with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2023) and nine away from establishing a new personal best.

“It’s just a winning mindset,” Chisholm Jr. said about the Yankees’ mentality heading to the 2026 MLB postseason. “We are just out there trying to win games, make it to the World Series, and go win it.“

Chisholm Jr. has been very vocal about his plans to become a World Series champion in 2026. Throughout the MLB season, he’s said it repeatedly. It’s all he’s after, and a big reason why he is unfazed by the prospect of free agency and potentially losing his job in the Big Apple. Moreover, Jazz has found his footing as of late, and his at-bat production is now trending upwards.

Chisholm Jr.’s stats

So far in the 2026 MLB campaign, Chisholm Jr. has put up 67 runs, 104 hits, 19 home runs, and 55 RBIs. His slash-line includes a .232 average, .311 OBP, .408 SLG, and .719 OPS. These are all still the lowest of his career (not including his rookie year), but have been on the rise as of late.

Chisholm Jr. is coming off a strong production in August, and it might be perfect timing. In the past month, Chisholm Jr. slashed for a .244 batting average, .337 OBP, .366 SLG, and .703 OPS. Such numbers allowed Chisholm Jr. to take a victory lap and silence critics, which had been loud all year long in the Bronx.

If he can keep it up, he might avoid finishing with career-low numbers, and his stock would be on the rise heading to the open market. Regardless, that’s a problem for future Chisholm Jr. For the time being, all he cares is about finishing the year strong, carry his red-hot streak into the postseason, and help the Bronx Bombers achieve what they haven’t since 2009.

NY Yankees are on track

Holding a 79-60 record with 23 games left on the regular-season schedule, the Pinstripers would have to go off the tracks to miss the playoffs. As things stand, they hold a four-game lead over the Boston Red Sox and have the tiebreaker thanks to their winning head-to-head record.

New York is 4.5 games behind the Tampa Bay Rays, who have won seven of their last 10 outings, meaning the AL East title is not out of reach, but it would take a big climb. Still, holding the first wild-card seed is far from the worst thing in the world.

All that matters is when the playoffs come around. Looking back, no one remembers which seed each team had when they made the playoffs; only those who hoist the Commissioner’s Trophy are immortalized.

On the heels of Judge spending more time with the Yankees as he joins the squad on the West Coast, Boone has revealed the right fielder made further progress just before leaving New York. Judge keeps taking steps in the right direction. Along with the fact that Boone all but confirmed a report around Judge’s injury timeline, it seems like it’s only a matter of days before he’s finally back in MLB action.

“Aaron Judge hit off the Trajekt machine before the Yankees left New York, Boone said,” as stated by the New York Post’s Greg Joyce on X. “No Trajekt available on the road, but they can have him face high-velocity pitching machines this week. Continues to respond well.”

Judge checks another box amid injury recovery

Although Judge has yet to be given the green light and activated off the 60-day injured list (IL)—which Boone explained is why the Yankees’ doctors haven’t cleared him yet—he is making steady progress. And it all has fans growing more confident by the minute.

Thanks to today’s technology in MLB, Judge may have no need to go on a rehab assignment in the minor leagues. His recent experience with the state-of-the-art pitching machine is another encouraging update and shows that the star outfielder has already faced high-velocity pitches.

However, that will come to a halt for as long as the Yankees stay on the road. A bummer, perhaps, but Judge is making progress, and the fact that he was sent on the road trip may indicate New York is confident it won’t cause him to lose a step on the way back.

“While Aaron Judge can continue to face velocity on non-Trajekt machines out west (not available in visiting facilities), he probably won’t get to see live pitching until the Yankees return home, Aaron Boone said,” as reported by Gary Phillips of NY Daily News.

Trajekt machines: MLB’s game-changers

While most fans around MLB have grown used to hearing players and coaches mention Trajekt and why that’s often a good sign of where an injured player stands, some aren’t really familiar with them, let alone have come face-to-face with one.

These realistic pitching machines can recreate any throw by professional pitchers across the league and serve as an unparalleled practice tool for players—not only those battling injuries, but any active player. They give players a chance to test themselves against a pitcher they might be facing soon and see everything firsthand.

These machines are fully customizable and can be set up to the exact specifications any team wants, loading data and being able to replicate any pitcher’s mechanics and throws. The fact that Judge was able to check that box off his to-do list before joining the Yankees on their week-long West Coast road trip is major, and a bright spot for New York.

Judge is inching closer

Clearly, Judge’s return is close, even if Boone doesn’t dare admit it, perhaps so as not to jinx it, and him going up against the Trajekt machine is only further proof. Throughout the road trip, Judge won’t get to be evaluated like that, but he will still face high-velocity pitching machines.

They aren’t quite as data-driven or technologically advanced as the Trajekt, but they’ll do, and there’s a reason why the Yankees prioritized having Judge hit the road with them rather than leave him in the Bronx to face pitches from an AI-driven pitcher.

Dealing with a hyperextended right elbow, Rutschman has already missed games during the 2026 MLB campaign. Now, he’s set to miss at least the first two games against the Seattle Mariners. More could follow. Tracy’s injury update wasn’t exactly an encouraging one. On the bright side, however, it wasn’t fatalistic either.

“He’s dealing with some stuff with that elbow. We’re not completely out of the woods. We are still monitoring and trying to give him appropriate time to make sure everything’s OK. It’s probably something we’re going to deal with off and on through the year,” Tracy admitted during an interview on WEEI.

Red Sox set to miss Rutschman in key games

Going forward, with the postseason in sight, it’s possible Boston will have to figure out a way to help its catcher recover while getting him into crucial, high-stakes games late in the year. Tracy admitted just that. Rutschman’s injury may not necessarily be season-ending, but it appears to be one that will follow—or haunt, rather—him through the end of the year, and perhaps beyond.

For the foreseeable future and the rest of the 2026 MLB schedule, it looks like Rutschman will be in and out of the lineup, going as far as his injured, deft arm allows him to. For the time being, the BoSox’ medical staff is still figuring out the best path moving forward, and Rutschman is considered day-to-day.

“They’re looking at different avenues to help alleviate that,” Tracy added about Rutschman’s status. “We have to be mindful of that. He’s active, but keeping him healthy and doing what we need to do to make sure we keep him healthy is important.”

Rutschman’s stats in 2026

Since Boston traded for him, Rutschman hasn’t had the production the baseball club in Massachusetts hoped for. Certainly not what the Red Sox expected after giving up a lot to complete the blockbuster trade within the American League East. Trades within the division usually cost extra, and Boston learned that while negotiating with the Baltimore Orioles.

So far in 2026, Rutschman has totaled 35 runs, 71 hits, 51 RBIs, and nine home runs. Moreover, his slash line registers a .237 batting average, .318 OBP, .400 SLG, and .718 OPS, along with a 1.7 WAR. However, his overall stats in 2026 are greatly improved by his numbers in Charm City. Since arriving in Boston, the three-time All-Star has struggled. Quite literally, his latest elbow setback added injury to insult.

So far, Rutschman has played 15 games for the Red Sox, putting up five runs, nine hits, four RBIs, and one homer. His slash line took a hit, dropping to a .170 AVG, .254 OBP, .245 SLG, and .499 OPS—all career-lows. His wins above replacement sits in the negative at -0.2 WAR.

Rough start to career in Boston

As great as Boston’s season has been since the All-Star break, Rutschman hasn’t enjoyed much individual success at Fenway Park. The grass isn’t always greener, they say, but the star catcher isn’t giving up just yet. Maybe if he keeps digging, and does so long enough, the grass will finally turn the color he hopes for—and that is a tone similar to the Green Monster, which Rutschman has yet to tame.

“Not finalized just yet, but closing in. [The Rangers] adding 27-year-old Eeli Tolvanen to the mix,” Mollie Walker of the New York Post stated. According to PuckPedia, the deal got done on a one-year, $1.5 million contract.

The 27-year-old right winger is coming off a 36-point season in the 2025-26 NHL campaign. Although far from a household name, Tolvanen has built a steady resume in the last seasons. Tolvanen didn’t get off to a hot start with the Nashville Predators, but found his footing with the Seattle Kraken.

Still, he was allowed to walk into free agency by the Kraken and could take things to the next level in the Big Apple. Over the last three seasons, Tolvanen registers 112 points thanks to 51 goals and 61 assists.

NY Rangers need depth scoring

Averaging only 2.87 goals for per game—10th worst in the NHL last season—the Rangers know they must turn things up a notch in that department. Of New York’s 235 goals last season, 35 belong to former stars Artemi Panarin and Vincent Trocheck.

Somebody will have to make up for that lost production, likely newcomers Pavel Dorofeyev and Oliver Bjorkstrand. Moreover, most of those goals came from the top-six forwards, with Mika Zibanejad (34 goals), Gabe Perreault (12), Alexis Lafreniere (24), and J.T. Miller (17) accounting for most of them.

In fact, only 171 of New York’s 235 goals last season were scored by players still in the organization. That means 50.9% of last season’s goals came from the four-man group of Zibanejad, Perreault, Lafreniere, and Miller. Tolvanen may help as he can provide goals while playing in the bottom six. He did lose his scoring touch last season, dropping from a career-best 23 goals in 2024-25 to a 12-goal output in 2025-26, but could find his mojo in the City That Never Sleeps.

In which line will Tolvanen play in New York?

That remains to be seen, but it’s likely he could join the highly effective third line alongside Noah Laba and Will Cuylle. Tolvanen could replace Taylor Raddysh in that group. A top-six role may be too much, at least on paper and before he even hits the ice in New York.

On the other hand, Tolvanen, who is listed at 5-foot-10 and 182 pounds, may not be the best fit for the energetic fourth-line. Having Matt Rempe patrolling the ice could help him, but it still feels like Tolvanen would be better off on another line, and the third line appears to be the best natural fit.

Still, a report around the Red Wings suggests neither the start of the new NHL season nor training camp is putting Detroit on the clock. Instead, it’s the timeline set by the organization, which is now scrambling to meet the deadline and take the first step toward solving the situation surrounding Larkin and the overall uncertainty surrounding the Winged Wheel.

“They were endeavouring to have the next person in place by Labor Day, so we’re coming up on that this week,” Frank Seravalli stated on Sportsnet’s The FAN Hockey Show.

With Labor Day in 2026 falling on September 7, the Red Wings are running out of time. Whether Larkin is running out of patience as well remains to be seen, but it’s clear the deadline is coming up and failing to meet it would only bring more trouble Detroit’s way—and it’s not like the Red Wings haven’t had enough of it already.

Larkin’s presence at training camp could raise eyebrows

The Red Wings will kickstart their training camp ahead of the 2026-27 NHL campaign on Sept. 17, exactly 10 days after the reported timeline to hire Steve Yzerman’s successor as general manager. Even if the Red Wings meet the deadline, the new leadership group would have little time to work with and would have to either trade Larkin or convince him to stay.

Thus, it’s very likely the disgruntled captain—whose status as captain is at stake for next season—will be on the ice for the start of training camp, making everything much more chaotic than it has to be. Perhaps Larkin holds out of training camp and makes his desire to leave even more noticeable. Either scenario is far from ideal and would leave Detroit in a pickle.

Clearly, the best plan is to figure things out before the team reunites at the Belfor Training Center. Whether it’s trading Larkin or convincing him to stay, that’s where the problem is—and what the new general manager will have to figure out in a little over a week, if he even has that much time.

The Red Wings are standing in front of a high-stakes domino effect. Mixed with thrill, anxiety, and fear, Detroit must let the first chip fall before watching everything unfold. It can be disastrous or magically healing, but there’s only one way to find out. And the reported timeline indicates the Red Wings have less than a week left before things kick off.

Yzerman is long gone

While many remain wary of Yzerman’s new role as senior adviser to governor and CEO Chris Ilitch after he stepped down (or was forced to do so) as executive vice president and general manager, a report states Yzerman is no longer a loud voice within the organization. His new role may be nothing more than a formality and a charming title to soften the fall for one of the best players in franchise history.

“Even though Yzerman is still technically part of the organization, he really has no influence, no say, nothing,” Ansar Khan said during an appearance on the Oilers NOW with Bob Stauffer podcast. “It’s just a figurehead position of consulting that he’s in. Yzerman is out of the way.”

Still, a replacement has yet to be named. The clock is ticking, the pressure is on, but the Red Wings haven’t disclosed much. If they made any progress in their search, they sure have kept their cards close to the vest.

Beckham Jr. and Carter both shared the Giants‘ No. 3 jersey throughout training camp and the NFL preseason. However, after Beckham let Jalin Hyatt know his intentions about the No. 13 jersey, it was clear the veteran wideout would be returning to his old number in no time. Finally, it was made official. Carter celebrated the news with a funny post on social media.

“It’s about damn time,” Carter stated on his X account, @1NCRDB1. He didn’t actually write that message, though, instead he simply quoted the Giants’ announcement with a GIF of LeBron James saying those words after winning an NBA championship with the Miami Heat.

New jerseys in New York-New Jersey

It’s always a hot topic around the New York Giants and a cause of social media stir whenever someone references the G-Men’s home as New York instead of New Jersey, where MetLife Stadium is located.

Fortunately, though, there will be no more confusion in East Rutherford’s locker rooms now. Duplicate numbers are a thing of the past—and of the preseason. With the 2026 NFL campaign looming on the horizon, the jersey changes have been made official.

Carter will wear No. 3 (he donned No. 51 during his rookie year), Beckham Jr. is now No. 13, and Hyatt—though he is on the practice squad—has taken up No. 81. There will be no mistake when talking about the Giants’ No. 13—it will be the same wide receiver who turned that number into a star a decade ago in the Meadowlands.

In the meantime, Judge hopes to bypass a rehab assignment and make his first game back with the Yankees rather than with the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Asked whether Judge will be sent on a rehab assignment in Triple-A, Boone couldn’t confirm or deny anything. Judge will have to wait to learn what his future in the 2026 MLB season will bring.

“I don’t know all the history of rehab assignments. I don’t think [Judge] did it in 2023 when he missed a couple of months. I remember Trea Turner and J.T. Realmuto missing a ton of time and they didn’t go on rehab [assignment] because you’re able to replicate a lot of things now. So I don’t know, we’ll cross that bridge when we get there,” Boone admitted about the Yankees’ stance on Judge’s rehab dilemma on the Talkin’ Yanks podcast.

What Boone’s statement means for Judge

Boone’s comment should be encouraging for Judge, as the Yankees’ manager is at least giving thought to having him jump right back into the lineup off the 60-day injured list (IL). At the end of the day, Judge is already spending more time with the Yankees and joined the rest of the clubhouse on the road trip to the West Coast.

New York got off to a concerning start on its road trip, falling 10-1 to the Los Angeles Angels in the series opener in Anaheim. Perhaps such a loss told Boone and the Pinstripers that they need Judge as soon as possible, and the idea of him skipping what would still be a very short minor-league rehab assignment in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre may not be as daunting.

Still, Boone couldn’t bring himself to commit to a final decision. Much like he couldn’t confirm whether Judge will return during New York’s upcoming six-game homestand, the Bronx Bombers’ manager left the door open for anything regarding Judge and a potential rehab assignment in the minors. It’s not like Judge will hate Boone and New York’s medical staff if they make that call, either.

Rehab assignment may not be necessary

Like Boone admitted himself, there may not be a glaring need for Judge to undergo a rehab assignment. In today’s MLB, injured players can get used to baseball activities and emulate real-game situations through pregame drills and activities in the cages. There may not be a need to risk a player by having him play in the minor leagues. Judge could get that grace.

Bellinger had to go through rehab assignment

However, the Yankees did send Cody Bellinger to their Triple-A affiliate as he returned from a Grade 2 left hamstring strain. It may be telling of the way the Pinstripers like to be extra cautious with their star players. But it may also be different with Judge, whose injury is in a completely different area of his body, with a much different timeline, and at a different point in the 2026 MLB season.

Even between players who suffer the same injury, no two setbacks are the same. Thus, those going off what New York did with Bellinger and making assumptions about Judge may only be misleading themselves.

The Tigers’ classic in Baton Rouge has only heated up on the eve of the Week 1 showdown between LSU and Clemson. Kiffin can thank his school’s interest in and landing of former NFL players for that, as Swinney didn’t mince words on the subject and even had a pointed dig for the former Ole Miss head coach.

“It’s kind of embarrassing, Honestly, it’s embarrassing that’s where we are. I don’t blame the kids, but people trying to take advantage of the system. It’s embarrassing but we’ve been there for a while. No pun intended but we’re just going to stay in our lane,” Swinney said about NFL players being back as school athletes, via ESPN’s David Hale, while making a play on Kiffin’s first name.

Sarkisian calls Kiffin, LSU’s strategy ‘morally wrong’

Swinney didn’t sugarcoat his thoughts on what Kiffin and the Tigers from Louisiana State have been up to ahead of the 2026 NCAA football campaign. Neither did Steve Sarkisian, whose Longhorns—like Swinney’s Tigers—will have to take on the LSU Tigers on the road this year.

Going into one of the toughest environments in the country, Texas knows it will have its hands full against LSU, which could also happen to start players who were on NFL rosters not too long ago. Asked about the controversy and whether the SEC made the right decision by announcing a rule banning former NFL players from playing college football, Sarkisian made a clear admission.

“These players on all of the rosters, not just ours, have been working for nine months for this moment. The fact that somebody out there is going to take a player off of an NFL roster and tell somebody who’s been doing it for nine months go kick rocks, that doesn’t sit well with me. I think that’s wrong, that’s morally wrong,” Sarkisian stated during a press conference ahead of Texas’ season opener. “So I think our presidents, athletic directors, and chancellors got it right. We will support it and fall in line.”

Why Texas’ NFL player Cole Hutson is different?

Sarkisian and the Longhorns also benefited from a courthouse ruling granting players an extra year of eligibility. Cole Hutson is returning to Texas for his fifth year of college football after going undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft. Hutson attended the Cleveland Browns’ and Dallas Cowboys’ minicamps before returning to his alma mater in Austin.

The main differences between his case and that of Dae’Quan Wright, to name one of LSU’s former pro players, are that Hutson didn’t participate in an NFL training camp, didn’t sign an NFL contract, nor did he play in a preseason game. He’s also returning to his school of origin rather than transferring within the conference.

Wright checks all of those boxes, which makes his transfer to LSU from the NFL and Ole Miss one of the more controversial and candid topics in college football. And mixed in the middle of it all is none other than Kiffin.

Kiffin in the eye of the storm

Sarkisian didn’t even have to name Kiffin or LSU, yet everybody knew who he was talking about. Lane Kiffin has truly embraced the villain role ahead of the 2026 NCAA season, starting last season when he left the University of Mississippi ahead of the College Football Playoffs for a head-coaching job at Louisiana State University.

Many thought that was the peak of his public enemy No. 1 status in college sports, but Kiffin hasn’t lowered the bar one bit. Being the main bidder for NFL players returning to college was the last straw, however. Kiffin recently admitted that although he’s had his doubts about going down this path, he has no regrets because his team is behind him.

“I met with the leadership committee of our players and I asked them ‘what do you want to do?’ Every one of them was emphatic that if they can help us win, bring them. This is how the real world works,” Kiffin said per FOX’s Trey Wallace. “That made me feel a little better in the struggle and being torn back and forth.”

Why SEC may not be able to stop LSU

Although the Southeastern Conference announced a rule banning former NFL players from playing college football, the rule may prove futile against a state court’s latest ruling. A Louisiana state judge signed a temporary restraining order preventing the SEC from enforcing the new rule, which promises hefty sanctions and bans for players who previously signed professional contracts in the NFL, NBA or WNBA.

It’s become a trend in college football. The NCAA and conferences say one thing, a state court rules another, and they engage in a dramatic bottleneck, with the careers of young athletes at stake. That’s the case for Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, who have committed to LSU after short stints in the NFL.

The players state that they only declared for the NFL Draft due to unclear rules at the time and would have stayed in college had they been guaranteed the chance to play in the 2026 season. That was only possible after a state court granted them, and many other players, an extra year of eligibility. Virtually no one blames the athletes, but it’s clear there aren’t many fans of LSU’s decision to go after Kiffin’s former players at Ole Miss, either.

“Also, Malachi Fields has switched to [No.] 88,” Dan Duggan of The Athletic reported on the heels of Beckham Jr.’s confirmed return to No. 13. Entering the last week of the NFL preseason, players on the 53-man roster must choose their jersey numbers, as duplicates are no longer allowed.

Fields, who wore No. 0 throughout training camp and the preseason, could no longer be Agent Zero, as that number is taken by Giants EDGE Brian Burns. Now, he’s set up shop in No. 88, a number that is often synonymous with stardom among wide receivers.

Beckham Jr. back on 13 for Cowboys matchup

Odell Beckham Jr. promised a strong commitment after making the Giants’ 53-man roster, and his first game back at MetLife Stadium will be a special one. Sunday Night Football against the Dallas Cowboys in the Meadowlands rings a bell, doesn’t it?

On Nov. 23, 2014, on that same stage, Beckham Jr. went viral across the globe and became an NFL legend after pulling off an unforgettable one-handed catch for an impossible touchdown.

More than a decade later, he’s back, wearing Big Blue’s No. 13 jersey again, and he’ll have his first test of the season—and second New York stint of his career—against the same opponent that helped make him a household name 12 years ago. “OBJ back in 13,” the Giants wrote on social media.

Najee Harris’ number at stake

As things stand, the New York Giants have two players wearing No. 22: Najee Harris and Dru Phillips. The latter may have the advantage, as he’s been in New York longer, whereas Harris arrived recently. Harris has worn No. 22 throughout his career, dating back to his time at Alabama, but that may not be enough to win the tug-of-war against Phillips for the jersey.

Judge has been sidelined since May 31 during the 2026 MLB season. The Yankees placed their three-time MVP on the 60-day IL with a stress fracture in his first right rib. Although he’s made steady progress, he has yet to be cleared by the team doctors in the Bronx. Boone explained why the medical staff is still on the fence about Judge and what the next step in his recovery should be.

“I don’t think so,” Boone answered when asked whether Dr. Christopher S. Ahmad, the Yankees’ head team physician, had made a decision on what the next step should be for Judge. “Just waiting for [Dr. Keith Meister], the other doctor weighing in, hearing what he has to say, and talking through it.”

Doctors still wary about Judge

Although Dr. Meister doesn’t work for the Bronx Bombers, the renowned orthopedic surgeon is often consulted by the Yankees for second opinions. For example, Fernando Cruz, whose injury-list designation contradicted Boone, has sought a second opinion from Dr. Meister as he might have to undergo surgery to repair his throwing-arm UCL.

With Judge, it’s no different. Boone has now admitted that the two doctors have yet to reach an agreement and are still talking things through. In the meantime, Yankees fans are growing anxious as they await Judge’s long-awaited return to the plate.

NY Yankees won’t rush Judge as doctors debate

However, New York won’t roll the dice. It will wait as long as necessary to make sure Judge is fully healthy and runs no unnecessary risk by sending him back onto the field. Of course, it’s easier to be cool-minded and patient when the team is winning and on track to make the postseason as the first wild-card seed.

As long as the Bronx Bombers can keep it up, Boone and company can afford to wait for Dr. Ahmad and Dr. Meister to reach a conclusion on Judge’s rehab. So far, so good. But if New York hits a bump in the road, patience may run out with the team’s head physician and the expert opinion.

According to a report around the league, the Red Wings are holding on to hope that Larkin isn’t too far gone yet. Maybe parting with Steve Yzerman proves to be the history-changing decision Detroit thought it would be. Of course, however, the Winged Wheel’s brass would have to nail the new general manager hire. It would all be in vain if not.

“Dylan Larkin has not rescinded his trade request, but I think there is at least a little bit more optimism that maybe the new GM comes in, has a meeting with Larkin, and is able to maybe patch up the differences. Really his main issue was Steve Yzerman,” Ansar Khan said during an appearance on Oilers NOW with Bob Stauffer.

Larkin still holds his ground

Larkin hasn’t publicly said or hinted at anything related to staying in Detroit. In fact, he appears set on leaving. However, he remains under contract for years to come, and a new general manager is—or at least should be—on the way to Motor City. That might be enough for the Red Wings to have faith.

Not every fan in Detroit wants Larkin to stay, but the organization is much better off with Larkin than without him, especially when the Wings are tied up in trade conversations. In order to figure things out, Larkin must help out Detroit.

Larkin holds an NTC and is only willing to waive it for three teams in the NHL: the Minnesota Wild, Florida Panthers, and Vegas Golden Knights. The Dallas Stars are another option, based on reports, but it’s still only a four-team list at best.

More of the same between Larkin and Red Wings

Long story short, it’s all stayed the same in Detroit. Other than the fact that Steve Yzerman is no longer making the decisions inside the organization, everything else looks much like it did when Larkin came forward and asked to be traded to a new team before the 2026-27 NHL season.

The Wings are only weeks away from the start of training camp, but Larkin is still on the roster. Fans may not like it and may make themselves heard on social media, but they have no access to the red button in Detroit that would complete Larkin’s move. As things stand, actually, no one has access to it. And because of it, Larkin is still a Red Wing—even if against his will.

“The Yankees are in good shape, and with Judge coming back probably [during] the next homestand. Judge should be back, based on what we’re hearing, by that homestand,” Ken Rosenthal stated on Foul Territory. “Maybe not the Colorado [Rockies’] series, maybe it’s just the [New York] Mets’ series. I don’t know, but Judge is making progress. He is accompanying them on their West Coast trip.”

Judge’s progress through his recovery from a stress fracture in his first right rib is not news. It’s become a daily occurrence, in fact. Recently, Judge put the Yankees and rest of MLB on notice with a confident injury update, and it only added to the hype. September was always the target date for Judge’s return and activation off the 60-day injury list (IL). Moreover, all signs indicate Judge could avoid a rehab assignment, just as he hoped.

Boone chimes in on report

Asked about whether the “next homestand” return date is accurate for Judge’s return, Yankees manager Aaron Boone dropped a sincere statement. He didn’t go as far as to confirm it, but did leave the door open for Judge to make his way back to Yankee Stadium the next time the Bronx Bombers are in town.

“We are getting closer, but feel good about where he’s at. I think it’s possible [Judge is back during the next homestand]. I’m not going to put a date on it, but I think those things are in play now,” Boone stated. “It’s about getting the durability and workload built up on him which is the biggest thing now.”

Potential special return for Judge

It’s been rumored for a while now. The Yankees could save Judge’s return for the Mets series at Yankee Stadium. Not only is it always a special occasion when the Pinstripers clash with the Orange and Blue, but this Subway Series will have another ingredient.

Starting on Sept. 11, the series opener will come on the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, making it an emotional night in the Bronx. Judge making his first appearance since May would add another layer, an exclusively baseball one, to a night that will mean a lot more than just that.

Even if Judge is back prior to the Mets series and plays against the Rockies, it would be meaningful for him to be available when the two New York-based clubs go head to head in the cross-boroughs battle.

Aaron Judge against NY Mets

According to Sports Reference, Judge has played a total of 34 regular-season games against the Mets. In those outings, he has totaled 24 runs, 36 hits, 14 home runs, and 26 RBIs.

Judge has built an impressive resume over the years against the Mets, registering a .295 batting average, .389 on-base percentage, .689 slugging percentage, and 1.077 OPS.

Needless to say, getting him back for the vitriol-filled series would be a confidence boost for the Yankees, who are firing in all cylinders as of late.

“The Red Sox today placed 1B Willson Contreras on the 10-Day Injured List with a left hamstring strain. To fill his spot, Boston recalled C/1B Mickey Gasper from Triple-A Worcester,” the club announced on its social media.

Thanks to his ability to play two positions efficiently, Gasper is back in Boston. Many fans thought he didn’t deserve to be sent down in the first place, and with him back the Red Sox get one of their most efficient batters in the 2026 MLB campaign.

Contreras’ injury update

Although the Red Sox ruled him out for at least 10 days with a left hamstring strain, fans are wary. Many speculate the setback may have something to do with the pitch to the head he took against the Los Angeles Dodgers on July 31. Some believe Contreras may still be affected by that.

“Willson Contreras has dealt with the left hamstring issue for about a month and has appeared particularly outwardly frustrated lately,” as reported by The Boston Globe’s Tim Healey.

Perhaps Contreras has been battling adversity on two fronts, and opposite ends of his body. That’s unclear. What is clear, however, is that Contreras will be sidelined during a crucial stretch of the 2026 MLB season.

There’s a silver lining, and it’s in the fact that Gasper will be back in Fenway Park, which many thought he had no business being sent down from. Not even for the day he was assigned to the Triple-A affiliate.

Gasper’s stats in 2026

So far, Gasper has played 45 games for Boston. Through those outings, he has recorded 17 runs, 37 hits, 19 RBIs, and five home runs. Gasper is putting up career-best numbers across the slash line, with a .278 batting average, .374 OBP, .466 SLG, and .840 OPS.

“No number change yet for Odell. He won’t be able to wear No. 3 since Abdul Carter has that, so likely just a matter of time until he’s back in No. 13,” Dan Duggan of The Athletic wrote on X.

Abdul Carter has no plans to change his jersey number, and the only real obstacle in the way of Beckham Jr. claiming his trademark No. 13 jersey in New York isn’t even much of a hurdle. Although the Giants decided to part ways with Jalin Hyatt, the wideout is back, as he was signed to the practice squad.

Thus, the No. 13 Big Blue jersey isn’t exactly vacant, but it is technically up for grabs regardless. Simply put, Beckham Jr. has priority over Hyatt, or rather, any 53-man roster player has priority over a practice-squad member.

No official deadline for number change

It shouldn’t take long before Odell finalizes his number for the season, and all signs point toward No. 13. The No. 3 jersey isn’t available, leaving only one option, as the star wide receiver out of LSU has never worn another number in his pro career.

Usually, NFL players select their official numbers for each season after the massive roster cuts in the final week of the preseason. Throughout training camp and the preseason, rosters often feature duplicate numbers, as was the case with Beckham Jr. and Carter in New York.

With the 53-man rosters set, duplicate numbers are no longer allowed, and thus Beckham Jr. will have to change his jersey number. Most signs indicate it will happen in the coming days.

OBJ confirms jersey number change is coming

Beckham Jr. has admitted his wish to return to No. 13. During his latest media availability, Odell let Hyatt know his intentions regarding the Giants’ No. 13 jersey, and it’s safe to say Hyatt’s tenure holding that title is numbered.

The writing is on the wall: Beckham Jr. is back in East Rutherford, and it’s about to look a lot more like 2016 at MetLife Stadium again. The kid who inspired a generation and made one-handed catches the coolest thing in football is back as an adult in the Big Apple, and he will be taking his number back.

Beckham Jr. and Hyatt talk numbers

There will be a conversation between Beckham Jr. and Hyatt. It won’t necessarily be a request to give up his number, but rather a polite chat to let the P-squad member know what will happen next.

Back when Hyatt was drafted by New York with the 73rd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Beckham Jr. sent a message to the player who was called to be his successor, wishing him luck in the Big Apple.

As fate would have it, Hyatt wouldn’t pan out in New York, and Beckham Jr. has been brought back, most likely to reclaim the No. 13 jersey, which has proven to be a weight on the shoulders of anyone who wore it. Like Thor’s hammer, Mjolnir, only Beckham Jr. can bear it.

“The Giants did not get any players via waivers,” Jordan Raanan of ESPN reported on X. As noted by Dan Duggan of The Athletic, however, it’s unclear whether New York actually placed a claim on a player in the first place.

Because waivers are determined by team priority and there are no limits on how many players a team can target, there is a scenario in which the Giants tried claiming a player but were beaten to it by a franchise with a worse record last season. If that was the case, then New York did nothing wrong.

NY Giants add no player from waivers

However, some believe the G-Men may have overlooked players on waivers, making no claims and thus coming away empty-handed. Harbaugh and his staff may be confident in the 53-man roster—which Odell Beckham Jr. made—and that might be the silver lining. Regardless, believing the team won’t make any more changes might be too much wishful thinking, even for a team in the city where dreams are made.

Teams making waiver-wire additions are usually those that missed the playoffs the previous season. This year was no different, as the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots were the only 2025 playoff teams awarded waiver claims. Fifth overall in waiver order, it’s definitely surprising New York didn’t come away with a single player. To some, however, it’s an encouraging sign as it could indicate Harbaugh and company trust their current lineup enough.

Moreover, it’s not as if New York didn’t address its depth. While they didn’t sign any new player, the Giants did bring back players that were previously released. For example, Braxton Berrios and Jake Haener, who are among the players returning to a practice squad spot.

Positions NY Giants could have strengthened

“If Giants put in claims today, I think they’ll be for defensive tackle, maybe a cornerback or a developmental edge to add to that room,” NorthJersey’s Art Stapleton said prior to the waiver-wire deadline.

Joe Schoen had hinted the Giants would explore more roster additions, but that wasn’t the case. At least not through waivers. Maybe the G-Men have an ace up their sleeve, which they plan on using to work out a trade or sign a player in free agency.

Still, many devotees among the fanbase in The Big Apple can’t help but feel this was a big missed opportunity. Hopefully it won’t become a season-long trend for Big Blue in 2026. Others like the fact that Harbaugh is doubling down on his roster-cut day decisions and sticking with the lineup he put together. There is no right or wrong decision, or at least no way to tell which is better before Week 1 has even taken place. It all comes down to subjectivity.

Messi is calling it a career with Argentina, but his Inter Miami contract won’t expire for some years, meaning he will remain active at the club level. Thus, he will have no trouble lacing up his cleats for one last game in his home country, and it won’t be a retirement game like the ones where an icon gathers his friends to play and the score usually ends in double digits.

For a legend of Messi’s stature, it would be surprising if Argentina didn’t set up one last hurrah for him, and a report indicates there will be a last dance in the Land of Silver.

Argentine journalist Pablo Gravellone of Todo Noticias reported that all signs indicate Messi will play his final game with Argentina at home. Most likely, it will take place during the upcoming FIFA international break, which will span from Sept. 21 to Oct. 6.

One more game after 2026 World Cup final

The 2026 World Cup final against Spain was Messi’s 207th game for Argentina, according to Transfermarkt. Had La Albiceleste won, it could’ve been the perfect ending for Messi and his international career. Instead, it left a sour taste in his mouth, and it seems playing one final game is the best course of action, especially if it’s at home in Argentina.

Through 207 appearances with La Albiceleste, Messi has scored 125 goals and assisted on 68 others. Messi’s and Cristiano Ronaldo’s international stats are quite even, but the Portuguese star will walk away with the advantage. In the upcoming international break, Messi is reportedly set to play his 208th and final game ever for Argentina.

Messi’s reported last game for Argentina

The official details remain uncertain, however. As things stand, there are no indications of whom Argentina will play then or when and where the game will be played.

Most likely, Messi’s last game in the country will be at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, where the national team plays most of its games. Though unlikely, there could be a chance Argentina play in Rosario to have Messi’s last game be in his hometown.

Star center back Cristian Romero is expected to become Argentina‘s national team’s new main captain after Messi retired from international soccer despite having years left on his Inter Miami contract.

Although it has yet to be formally announced by Argentina, Romero becoming the newest captain would make sense. The Atletico Madrid defender is only 28 years old, meaning he could hold the captaincy for years to come. Moreover, he’s arguably the most vocal leader on the pitch and already has experience under his belt as captain at Tottenham. If he could lead a locker room filled with players from across the world, he should have no trouble communicating with and commanding his fellow countrymen.

Still, there are also other candidates who could make sense. Even if Romero is named the main captain, others could fill in for him in games in which the center back is unavailable.

Post-Messi Era: Argentina’s captain candidates

Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez is a fan favorite and a leader both on and off the pitch. His heroics for Argentina speak for themselves, and he has all the ingredients to be an elite captain for La Albiceleste. However, it’s hard to look past the fact that he plays goalkeeper, and having your captain so far away from the action and the referee isn’t exactly ideal. Especially with a powerhouse like Argentina, whose players are vocal and in the referee’s ear every game, whether it’s the World Cup final or an international friendly.

Rodrigo De Paul is the other obvious choice to become Argentina’s captain. He is as loquacious as they come and has spent a long time alongside Messi, perhaps perfecting his leadership skills. However, with De Paul’s performance during the 2026 World Cup facing backlash and his starting role being called into question, it may not be wise to name as captain someone who may often start games on the bench.

Dark horses

Although Lautaro Martinez captains his club, Inter, and Julian Alvarez is arguably the best player on the team, neither appears to be what Argentina are looking for in their next captain. Moreover, because the two often split starts, their captaincy bids may be obsolete.

Enzo Fernandez may not be getting the recognition he deserves in the race for the armband. He has all the ingredients of an Argentine leader, playing with his heart on his sleeve and boiling blood, and he already has experience under his belt, having occasionally served as captain at Chelsea. Plus, he’s only 25, so he has a lot more to give for his country.

Lisandro Martinez could very well be a candidate. However, it’s more likely Argentina would split the captaincy between their two starting center backs if that were the case. The Romero-Martinez duo will be crucial to La Albiceleste’s success in the post-Messi days, and there may be no better motivation than having them both serve as captains, 1A and 1B.

Romero could still be best option

Romero might still be the most logical answer to the captain question. He was Argentina’s best player not named Lionel Andres Messi throughout the 2026 World Cup and is entering his prime both at the club and international levels.

However, because Romero isn’t unfamiliar with yellow and red cards, Argentina must have a backup plan and an alternative captain lined up as well. And as we’ve seen, there is no shortage of candidates.

“Forever my heart bleeds blue,” Odell Beckham Jr. wrote on his Instagram Stories, alongside a video of the streets of New York with Jay-Z and Alicia Keys’ “Empire State of Mind” playing in the background.

In true New Yorker fashion, the 33-year-old wide receiver sent the ultimate message to the fanbase as the 2026 NFL season looms around the corner. Shortly after Odell’s spot on the Giants’ wide receiver depth chart was confirmed, he confirmed where his heart is—and has always been.

Year 6 in New York for Odell

Beckham Jr. is back where it all started for him in the NFL. Seven years after the Giants traded him to the Cleveland Browns, Odell is back in Big Blue. Not many expected him to even make the 53-man roster.

However, Calvin Austin’s season-ending injury opened the door for Beckham Jr., and he didn’t disappoint. As a result, Beckham Jr. made the five-man wide receiver group, which will add Braxton Berrios, who was released but will be back for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season.

So far in his Giants career, Odell has played 59 games across five years (2014-2018). Beckham Jr. has caught 390 passes for 5,476 yards and 44 touchdowns.

Odell’s milestone watcher for 2026

Beckham Jr. can set incredible marks in both his Giants career and entire NFL career during the 2026 season. Barring injury, Odell will reach 8,000 receiving yards in his professional career, as well as 5,500 yards with the G-Men, perhaps even 6,000.

Beckham Jr. is one receiving touchdown away from reaching the 60-touchdown mark in his career. It feels pretty much like a done deal, but Odell hasn’t caught a touchdown pass since Dec. 10, 2023. Back then, he was playing for John Harbaugh on the Baltimore Ravens.

“I didn’t even have to watch it, I know I made the catch,” Rafaela admitted to media after the game, via NESN. “I know when a ball drops and a ball doesn’t drop. I know I made the catch. They couldn’t overturn it, out of out control, but I was really mad at the moment. I really wanted to help my pitcher there and I feel that changed the whole game.”

Tied at zero in the bottom of the fifth inning in the final regular-season matchup between AL East rivals, the Red Sox and Yankees, Rafaela dove at a fly ball off Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s bat. Upon landing, there was no clear evidence of whether the ball touched the turf or not.

Thus, the original call on the field of no catch was upheld. Had it been called a flyout on Chisholm Jr., Rafaela would’ve completed a double play. Instead, the runners set up shop at first and second base and would go on to score on a two-run single courtesy of Paul Goldschmidt.

Game-changing call

Clearly, the controversial play at Yankee Stadium changed the course of the game. Rafaela and Boston would never move on and would end up suffering a whopping 16-1 loss, which saw infielder Andruw Monasterio take the mound and allow two home runs and five runs. All in all, it was an awful ending to the team’s stay in New York.

If Red Sox manager Chad Tracy had revealed the price of bringing Trevor Story and Roman Anthony back, the cost of this defeat may be indescribable. Boston fell 3-1 in a crucial series, but it has also lost any tiebreaker advantage against its divisional rival, the Yankees. Not only was the call a game-changer, but it may have been decisive in determining how the American League playoff bracket looks.

NY Yankees secure tiebreaker over Red Sox

New York now holds a four-game lead over Boston for the top Wild Card spot in the American League. Not only that, but more importantly, the Bronx Bombers have secured the tiebreaker thanks to their 7-6 head-to-head record against Boston in 2026.

As things stand, the Yankees and Red Sox are set to meet in the Wild Card Series (No. 4 vs. No. 5). Because of the tiebreaker between them, New York would host all three games of that series even if they finish with the same record. Boston’s only shot at hosting the Wild Card Series is if it finishes with a better record than New York.

There are three possible outcomes, and two of them favor the Yankees, largely because of the 16-1 rag-dolling, which was kickstarted by a call that still doesn’t feel right with the BoSox.

Beckham Jr. has been rocking No. 3 for some time now. It was his jersey number in college at LSU, and aside from his time with the Giants and Browns, he wore the single digit throughout his NFL career. Through training camp and the preseason, Beckham Jr. has stuck with No. 3, too. If he’s a little superstitious, he may not want to change numbers now.

However, the speculation is already loud. If there’s a number OBJ is linked to in New York, it’s No. 13. That hadn’t been up for grabs hitherto. But the Giants have now made the jersey number available, leading to questions over whether Beckham Jr. will return to his No. 13 era or stay put.

“Odell Beckham made the team,” Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post Sports wrote on his X account. “Will he be in No. 13 at tomorrow’s practice?”

NY Giants open path to No. 13

In one of the latest roster moves to trim the squad down to 53 players, the New York Giants have waived wide receiver Jalin Hyatt, as reported by Jordan Schultz. Though the move was expected, it serves as confirmation that Beckham Jr. could take the vacated No. 13 jersey, which Hyatt donned. The number is up for grabs, but it remains to be seen if Odell will want to snatch it. Perhaps he feels better wearing No. 3.

His return to the Big Apple is deeply rooted in nostalgia and a sense of righting his wrongs in the City That Never Sleeps, but he may not want to make everything look exactly the way it did years ago. As magical as the journey was, Beckham Jr.’s first stint with the G-Men ended with a trade to Cleveland, and there’s reason to believe OBJ is hoping for a much different ending this time around.

Beckham Jr. had success wearing No. 13, but he won a Super Bowl with No. 3 on the front and back of his jersey. In 2026, it’s clear what a 33-year-old Beckham Jr. is after. Moreover, changing his jersey number could come at a price.

Players can’t simply change jersey numbers

For NFL players changing their numbers midway through a season, they usually must buy out the entire inventory of existing jerseys with their old number. Needless to say, many fans in New York have already purchased their No. 3 Beckham Jr. jersey, even before his roster spot was confirmed.

For many others, however, a return to his old number would be great, as they could bring their old Odell jerseys out of the closet from his first stint in town. Either way, regardless of whether they’re wearing OBJ’s No. 3 or No. 13 jersey, fans will be making their way to MetLife Stadium all season long to see a team legend back on the gridiron.

“I think center is a place the Giants will look to upgrade over the next few days,” the New York Post reporter Ryan Dunleavy stated. “Not sure if it will be possible, but I get the sense that they’d like to bring in a viable challenger to John Michael Schmitz.“

Throughout the NFL preseason, the Giants‘ depth at center included veteran Lucas Patrick. However, John Harbaugh and company have decided they can do without the 33-year-old offensive lineman.

NY Giants cut Lucas Patrick

Just as New York released quarterbacks Brandon Allen and Jake Haener to get down to a 53-man roster, the Giants have parted ways with Patrick. “Also among the Giants’ cuts is OL Lucas Patrick, who had a strong camp,” as reported by NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo.

The move means Bryan Hudson, the 25-year-old out of Louisville, is trending toward becoming the backup at center. However, much can change, and the G-Men could bring in a new face—not only to compete for the backup job, but to take over the starting gig altogether.

Protect Dart at all costs

Although Jameis Winston makes for entertaining outings and is one of the best backup quarterbacks in the NFL, the Giants can only go so far without their franchise quarterback under center. New York must make sure Dart stays healthy and pays as few visits to the medical blue tent as possible. Much of that hinges on Dart’s hands and decision-making, but the team has a big role to play as well.

At the very least, the G-Men must provide their QB1 with solid protectors around him. Once he scrambles out of the pocket, Dart is by himself. Coming off a season-ending IR stint late in the 2025 NFL season, Giants center Schmitz is in for a big challenge. While left tackle is usually considered the make-or-break position for an offensive line with a right-handed quarterback, center is just as crucial.

Tasked with snapping the ball on every play, reading the opposing defense before the snap, and alerting his quarterback and line teammates, the center’s job in the NFL is often overlooked. The Giants aren’t making that mistake, though, and are clearly taking a long, careful look at their current situation.

“NFL is placing Packers RB Josh Jacobs on the commissioner exempt list,” ESPN insider Adam Schefter reported on his X account. The NFL’s commissioner exempt list is “a special player status available to clubs only in unusual circumstances,” as stated in the league’s player personnel manual. In essence, it’s a paid-leave status that serves as a placeholder and doesn’t count against a team’s active 53-man roster.

With Jacobs being the latest addition to the list, he won’t take up a spot on the active roster. As long as he remains on the list, Jacobs is not allowed to play nor attend games. This means that, should he stay on the commissioner exempt list through Week 1, he will miss the Packers‘ season opener against the Minnesota Vikings. In turn, MarShawn Lloyd, the second-string halfback behind Jacobs, would get the starting nod.

Packers’ running backs could move up a spot

As long as Jacobs remains on the commissioner exempt list, the Packers must act as if he isn’t on the team. That means there could be a long line of halfbacks ready to earn promotions.

Third-year running back MarShawn Lloyd appears to be the main candidate to take over HB1 duties in case Jacobs misses games during the 2026 NFL season. However, Green Bay also traded for Jacobs’ potential replacement, Kaleb Johnson, so he could run away with the starting gig as well.

One thing is clear: The Packers knew Jacobs’ designation to paid leave was coming, and the move for Johnson was no coincidence. Chris Brooks is the other running back on the team’s depth chart, which, as of this moment, doesn’t include Jacobs. His new status has effectively cast him aside from the team’s lineup.

Three players on exempt list, three more under review

Although Schefter reported there will be no more players added to the commissioner exempt list on Sunday, he couldn’t confirm or deny whether there would be a new addition in the coming days.

Along with Jacobs, Seattle Seahawks cornerback Terrion Arnold and Denver Broncos outside linebacker Jonathan Cooper have been added to the list, meaning they are currently sidelined, too.

Meanwhile, the league is still reviewing the situations surrounding Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua and offensive lineman Alaric Jackson, as well as Baltimore Ravens wideout Rashod Bateman.

Set to bring Story, Anthony, and Isiah Kiner-Falefa back, there was always going to be a catch. Somebody had to be sent down, and it was always likely to be players who had stepped up when it mattered most and kept the Red Sox in the American League Wild Card race in the 2026 MLB season.

In that sense, baseball is a cruel business. Taking his first steps as a manager in the Show, perhaps Tracy wasn’t used to this part of the sport. Still, after optioning Mickey Gasper and Anthony Seigler to Triple-A affiliate Worcester, Tracy voiced a sincere statement. Calling Story and Anthony up was relatively easy, but sending Seigler and Gasper down was not.

“It was bittersweet. I mean it. We’re really excited that Roman’s here, really excited Trevor’s here,” Tracy admitted, per Mass Live reporter Christopher Smith. “But have to talk to two guys that were instrumental over this stretch of helping our team get back to where it is right now and professionally. Explain to them the reasons why you’re doing what you’re doing and keep them focused to go down and continue to get reps so that they’re ready for the next call. So it was an exciting night and also a very difficult night at the same time.”

Red Sox go out with the new, in with the old

Although Anthony did much better in his Worcester rehab assignment than Story did, their numbers were still not quite at the level fans expected. For the Red Sox, however, the stats were irrelevant and mostly decorative. All they needed to see was the right progress from their injured players.

However, by bringing Anthony and Story back and sending Gasper and Seigler down, Boston got rid of two pivotal pieces of its late-season success. It should go without saying, but fans in The Hub will be watching closely as the veteran and sophomore return to the lineup against none other than the New York Yankees in the Bronx.

Many fans didn’t appreciate Story’s return, especially as it came at the expense of Seigler. “Yay!!!! Trevor Story is back!” – Nobody. Literally nobody,” a fan replied to Boston’s announcement of the roster moves. “Gasper and Seigler got us here. I think they deserve to stay,” another fan commented.

Stats comparison in 2026

Through 41 games with the Red Sox in 2026, Story has scored 16 runs, recorded 34 hits, three home runs, and 19 RBIs. Moreover, he’s posted a .206 AVG, .244 OBP, .303 SLG, and .547 OPS. Anthony, on the other hand, has played 30 games and recorded 12 runs, 25 hits, one home run, and five RBIs, along with a .229 AVG, .354 OBP, .321 SLG, and .675 OPS.

The recently optioned momentum-builders, in turn, have exceeded expectations. Seigler has 21 runs, 37 hits, three home runs, and 13 RBIs through 48 outings, as well as a .250 AVG, .331 OBP, .405 SLG, and .737 OPS. Lastly, Gasper has played in 45 games, with 17 runs, 37 hits, five homers, and 19 RBIs. His .278 batting average is among the best on the team, along with a .374 OBP, .466 SLG, and .840 OPS.

“Aaron Judge will travel with the team to the West Coast,” as reported by MLB.com‘s Bryan Hoch on X. “Aaron Boone said Judge will begin participating in more pregame activities, including facing velocity.”

Instead of staying home in the Bronx while working on his rehab from the stress fracture in his first right rib, Judge will join the rest of the Yankees on the upcoming road trip through the West Coast. Facing the Los Angeles Angels (Aug. 31-Sept. 2) and San Diego Padres (Sept. 4-6), the fact that Judge will be with the team and going through pregame drills paints a clear picture of where he stands in his injury rehab.

Moreover, as long as he’s in the clubhouse, he can always be activated off the 60-day IL and called upon to make his MLB return—his last game was on May 31. Judge has explained why he hopes to bypass a rehab assignment in the minor leagues before. Whether the Yankees agree or not remains to be seen, but it’s reasonable to believe they do.

Buzz around Judge’s return date

Although it’s a possibility, it still feels unlikely that Judge will be activated off the IL during the upcoming road trip. Most signs indicate the Bronx Bombers are hoping to reinsert Judge into the lineup when they return home to Yankee Stadium.

That means the three-game series against the Colorado Rockies is trending as the favorite for Judge’s return. Perhaps Judge will be the team’s designated hitter (DH) in that series, although Boone ruled out that new role for Judge days ago.

Anything can happen. Judge could be back on the road, return at home, or have his first game back in action delayed by an unexpected setback. For the time being, though, everything around No. 99 is looking good for New York. Judge keeps checking boxes and moving forward in his injury rehab.

Judge needs to find his footing fast

The fact that he will be facing velocity on the upcoming road trip, coupled with the mere fact that he’ll be traveling with the rest of the team, suggests Judge is ever closer to his long-awaited return.

The Yankees need him, the league fears him, and whenever he’s back, it’s set to be a game circled in red on everyone’s calendar. It will be interesting to see Judge’s first games after the injury—especially if he indeed skips a rehab assignment. How comfortable the three-time MVP is at the plate will be representative of New York’s true chances at the pennant and World Series. The Yankees may go as far as Judge can take them, and there may be no other player who can hold the fort as injuries pile up on several fronts.

Both Story and Anthony struggled to start their rehab assignments in Triple-A baseball. While Story tuned out the critics amid his rough patch, Anthony showed some reaction at the plate, proving he was serious when he said he wanted to put the criticism surrounding his injury recovery behind him. Whether they still have something to prove or not, both Story and Anthony decided to extend their stints in the minors—or so they said.

“Roman Anthony just said he (and Trevor Story) decided they wanted to get more at-bats here in Triple-A Worcester today as opposed to wasting a day traveling to New York,” as reported by Tommy Cassell of Worcester Telegram & Gazette.

Curious decision on Story, Anthony’s part

Usually, when a player is given the green light to return to the major league lineup, it takes no time for him to pack his things and be on his way to wherever the MLB club is playing. However, it appears Anthony and Story were in no rush to leave Worcester, nor did they have any desire to spend a day as tourists in New York City.

Focused on getting back to 100 percent and finding their mojo again, the duo opted to stick around for at least one more game with the WooSox. It remains to be seen how the Red Sox react to Story and Anthony’s decision.

Just recently, Boston’s Chief Baseball Officer (CBO) Craig Breslow guaranteed Story’s starting job would be waiting for him under one condition. Perhaps this changes things and how the organization views the injured infielder and left fielder.

Story and Anthony’s stats in minors

While Story has now been in Worcester for a while, Anthony is still new to the lineup. However, their numbers indicate that has had little to do with their production.

Through eight games with the WooSox, Story has gone 4-for-29 at the plate, with two runs, two RBIs, and 10 strikeouts. His batting stats are as tough to look at, with a .138 AVG, .167 OBP, .138 SLG, and .305 OPS. Throughout the 2026 MLB season, he had registered a .206 AVG, .244 OBP, .303 SLG, and .547 OPS.

As for Anthony, his numbers are a bit better. He’s only played in two games at Triple-A, going 2-for-8. He went hitless in his first game before going 2-for-4 in his second, including a home run. His Triple-A slash line stands at a .250 AVG, .333 OBP, .625 SLG, and .958 OPS. At the MLB level, Anthony has a .229 AVG, .354 OBP, .321 SLG, and .675 OPS through 30 games with Boston in 2026.

Hellebuyck’s trade list has yet to be disclosed, but there may be no need for it. According to most reports around the NHL, the Buffalo Sabres have been linked to Hellebuyck for a while. Maybe now is the time a deal actually gets done. However, the Sabres aren’t alone, and there will be other teams all over the 33-year-old netminder, who is under contract through the 2030-31 NHL season.

Carrying a more-than-reasonable $8.5 million cap hit and with a maximum total salary of $10 million in the next five seasons, there are no salary-cap concerns around Hellebuyck. However, most of the teams being linked to him may have to work some magic in order to land the Michigan native. When there’s a will, there’s a way, though, and some of Hellebuyck’s potential suitors have a history of making moves even amid a cap crunch.

Potential suitors for Hellebuyck

Buffalo is the favorite. It possesses the prospects, draft picks, and, most importantly, the cap space to land Hellebuyck. However, with the goalie holding the key to his exit, it may not come down to who has the best offer.

The Sabres saw their magical 2025-26 campaign come to a crushing end, in part because they could never firmly establish their starting goaltender. Hellebuyck would solve that, not only for next season but for five straight years, and perhaps even longer.

In addition to the Sabres, other teams who could be all over Hellebuyck include: the Florida Panthers, Carolina Hurricanes, and Vegas Golden Knights. Let’s take a closer look at each of these Stanley Cup contenders, and why they could be Hellebuyck’s next destination.

Panthers could add yet another Infinity Stone

The Panthers have been favorites to land Hellebuyck ever since reports broke of the goalie’s frustration in Manitoba. What’s not to like about Florida? Playing for arguably the best team in the NHL when healthy, joining an undeniable Stanley Cup contender, reuniting with fellow Team USA teammates Matthew and Brady Tkachuk, and, to top it off, joining a franchise in a no-income-tax state.

From the Panthers’ standpoint, the main deterrent is that they just signed Jacob Markstrom to a two-year, $12 million contract ($6 million cap hit). They could always trade Markstrom to Winnipeg, but that would hinge on whether Markstrom hasn’t included the Jets on his 20-team no-trade list.

The Cats also have less than $35,000 available in cap space, which complicates a move for Hellebuyck. But that doesn’t feel like as big of an issue when they have Bill Zito working his craft behind the scenes. Adding Hellebuyck could be Florida’s best chance at replacing Sergei Bobrovsky and getting back to a Stanley Cup Final next year.

As for Hellebuyck, the Panthers may give him the best chance at winning a Stanley Cup in his NHL career while reuniting him with former head coach Paul Maurice. It just makes too much sense.

Hurricanes plus Hellebuyck: Back to back dream

In addition to the suspense around RFA defenseman Alexander Nikishin, the reigning Stanley Cup champions face a large, unavoidable question in net. Frederik Andersen left for the Edmonton Oilers, and although Brandon Bussi proved he can hold his ground, the Hurricanes are missing a bona fide elite goaltender to cruise their way through the flagging Metropolitan Division and be firing on all cylinders by the time the postseason starts.

Carolina has roughly $9.8 million available in cap space, via PuckPedia, so that won’t prevent it from going after Hellebuyck. In Raleigh, Hellebuyck could reunite with fellow Team USA member Jaccob Slavin. That seems to be a trend among the gold medalists who asked out of their organizations after the national team provided them with the long-yearned-for feeling of being on a championship team.

Lastly, the Hurricanes own three of their next four first-round picks in the NHL Draft, which could come in handy in negotiations with the Jets. Entering a new season, no team is more favored to win than the reigning champs, and judging by the fact that there have been two back-to-back champions since the turn of the decade, if Hellebuyck wants to win now, Carolina might be his safest bet.

Hellebuyck can become a Golden Knight

Falling just short of the Stanley Cup last season, Vegas isn’t going anywhere. Bruce Cassidy and John Tortorella are gone, Ryan Craig is now in charge, but these are still the same old Golden Knights. If there’s a big name out there making himself available, best believe they will be all over it—and especially a goaltender like Hellebuyck.

However, Vegas has a lot of hurdles in the way. The organization in Sin City is currently $8.6 million over the salary cap, but it could always gain some ground by making timely long-term injured reserve (LTIR) decisions. The Knights could also clear some space by moving Adin Hill, maybe in exchange for Hellebuyck while giving up something more. Hill carries a $6.25 million cap hit. As long as Winnipeg’s name isn’t written on his 10-team no-trade list, the deal could happen.

The Golden Knights can’t trade either of their first-round picks in 2027 and 2028, as both have already been dealt on conditional terms. All in all, the Knights face a steep climb to make a trade for Hellebuyck, with battles on several fronts. However, if there’s one thing an organization named the Vegas Golden Knights will never back down from, it’s a fight and a gamble. Making a move for Hellebuyck provides both in perfect measure, so expect the Knights to be a player at this table.

Speaking to media ahead of the rubber game between the Yankees and Houston Astros at Yankee Stadium, Judge got his message across. Asked about his progress and where he stands after his first overhand batting practice, the Yankees‘ right fielder voiced a confident statement.

“I’m not really expecting it to take me too long to get the timing back,” Judge stated, as reported by MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch. While Judge’s confidence and visible improvements are encouraging, they all come on the heels of Aaron Boone’s message cautioning that Judge’s rehab could face setbacks and changes.

New York will gladly take every positive update surrounding Judge, and so will Boone, who boosted the hype with one of his latest updates. Still, the baseball club in the Bronx knows better than to get ahead of itself and take a big risk.

Yankees will be careful with Judge

Patience is the name of the game, and the Yankees are sticking to it. Every option remains on the table, and Judge may not get his wish to skip a rehab assignment granted. All that matters—at least to the Bronx Bombers—is that Judge is trending toward a return soon in the 2026 MLB season.

Whether the Yankees save Judge’s return for Sept. 11 against the New York Mets, as a report suggests, or not matters little in the grand scheme of things. With the Yankees on the right path to make the postseason, Judge’s return to the lineup could be the perfect addition and may lead to fans looking past what was a disheartening trade deadline.

In more ways than one, No. 99 is the best reinforcement the team could make. Pitching help would have been nice, especially as New York loses starters and relievers on a concerning basis, but watching Judge in pinstripes again may make it all worth it. Obviously, it’s not as if the Yankees couldn’t have one without the other, but it would have led to some tough roster decisions come Sept. 1.

Judge has more boxes left to check

Although Judge impressed Boone during his first overhand batting practice since being placed on the 60-Day IL, he still faces a way to go before being completely cleared to return. Judge himself admitted what the next steps will probably be.

“[Judge] said he doesn’t know when he’ll be cleared to face velocity, but he’ll see a mix of Trajekt, machine work and maybe facing rehabbing pitchers like Clarke Schmidt,” Hoch reported on his X account.

Regardless of exactly when or how many steps he has yet to complete, all signs are pointing in the right direction. Moreover, Judge is feeling good and confident about where he is in his recovery, and that is always an encouraging sight to see. With the postseason looming on the horizon and the Yankees set for a pennant race in the AL East, the rest of the league should watch out because visits to Yankee Stadium are about to get a whole lot more intimidating.