Hazel Mae shared Scherzer’s comments from April 12 on X: “Max Scherzer on the Blue Jays’ 6-9 start to the season: ‘whether you’re hurt, whether you’re not, when you have something, whether you don’t, no one cares. This is about going out there and winning ball games.’”

Scherzer recently took full accountability for one of his worst outings of the season, making it clear he’s part of the problem as well. That accountability now shapes his message, focusing on what the team must do to turn things around.

A slow start, but not unfamiliar

The Blue Jays’ first 15 games of 2026 closely mirror last season’s trajectory. At this same point in 2025, they were 8-7, and it wasn’t until June that they began to find consistency, eventually reaching 46-38 by the end of that month.

The pattern goes back even further. In 2024, Toronto also stumbled out of the gate but never recovered, finishing 74-88 and missing the postseason, a season in which Scherzer was not part of the roster.

Now, despite the absence of Bo Bichette, the team still features established stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and a core group familiar with the organization. That foundation suggests there’s still a path forward if they can stabilize their play.

“This is why we went out and signed a lot of pitchers this offseason,” Brown said ahead of Sunday’s game on April 12. He added that the available arms in the bullpen should be more than capable of covering for injured pitchers.

“We feel like right now that we’re going to be able to sustain these injuries because of the depth we have,” Brown said. He also made it clear that the goal isn’t just to replace injured arms, but to get them back on the mound as quickly as possible once they recover.

Bolton’s rough start to 2026

Bolton’s 2026 MLB season had already gotten off to a shaky start. Through three appearances, he posted a 5.40 ERA, making him one of the less reliable options in the bullpen. He wasn’t with Houston last season, as his year ended early after just one appearance with the Cleveland Guardians.

Bolton has yet to show the consistency needed to become a dependable reliever. He spent time with the Mariners in 2024, appearing in 17 games, his highest total in a single season, but has otherwise bounced between the majors and minors.

Brown also pointed to other potential options beyond the bullpen. He mentioned Peter Lambert and Colton Gordon as possible rotation depth if needed. Lambert hasn’t pitched in the majors since 2024, but he did post a 2.94 ERA during spring training.

“We are way better than this. We have a great team, we believe in each other. I know that we’re going to do better. We love each other, we’re going to keep pushing hard to be better and win some games,” Peralta told reporters in a video shared by SNY on X.

Peralta hasn’t been the sharpest arm in the rotation, but he’s off to a good start, posting a 3.86 ERA with 25 strikeouts and a 1-1 record. He’s looked more controlled throughout April, with his only real trouble coming against Arizona, where he allowed three earned runs, though the Mets still pulled out a 4-3 win.

Can the Mets bounce back?

The Mets’ situation isn’t dire. Despite sitting at the bottom of the NL East, the season is still young with more than 140 games left to play. At this same point last year, they were 11-5, a much stronger start, but it still wasn’t enough to carry them into the MLB postseason.

Peralta is part of a rotation that has had some early struggles in 2026, but the pitching staff isn’t entirely to blame. Offensive production has also been an issue, with Francisco Lindor struggling at the plate and Juan Soto still sidelined with an injury.

April could be key for a turnaround, especially with a schedule that includes plenty of home games. However, the Mets have already stumbled early, winning just one of their first six at home. A tough road stretch against the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs awaits before they return home on April 21 to face the Minnesota Twins, Colorado Rockies, and Washington Nationals.

The report came from Will Sammon on X: “Free agent right-hander Max Kranick is set to throw for teams on Friday afternoon at Ascent Athlete in Philadelphia, The Athletic has learned.” His last MLB appearance came on June 15, when the Mets lost 9-0 to the Tampa Bay Rays.

Kranick originally made his MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he appeared in just 11 games. The team experimented with him as a starter in nine of those outings, but the role didn’t stick. He finished the 2021 season with a 6.28 ERA and a 2-3 record.

What does Kranick bring to the table?

Kranick isn’t just a reliever who logged 24 games with the Mets in 2025, posting a 3-2 record across 37 innings, he’s also a pitcher with nine seasons of minor league experience and a career 4.69 ERA at that level. That background could make him an appealing, experienced arm for an MLB team looking for depth.

He also comes at a low cost. As a pitcher who has earned the league minimum, Kranick represents a low-risk option for teams willing to take a chance on a young right-hander who showed promise in limited action last season.

It’s also worth noting that in July of last year, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza announced that Kranick would need Tommy John surgery. He had already been placed on the injured list in June 2025, was released in November, and is now officially a free agent.

The report comes from Pat Ragazzo of Sports Illustrated: “Scouts I’ve spoken with that have watched Mets‘ Bo Bichette run the bases don’t think he looks fully healthy. Bichette sprained the PCL in his left knee last September and appears to still be nursing the injury.”

According to Ragazzo, Bichette may have arrived in New York without fully recovering from the injury he suffered while with the Toronto Blue Jays, which limited him late last MLB season, although he only missed 23 games last year.

How many injuries has Bichette had in his career?

From 2016 through 2026, Bichette has dealt with roughly 10 injuries, ranging from minor issues to more serious setbacks. One of the most impactful came in 2024, when a calf strain sidelined him for 52 games. That same year, he also suffered a finger fracture, making it a particularly injury-plagued season.

Scouts’ concerns about his current condition add another layer of uncertainty. “He didn’t go first-to-third the other day,” one NL scout told Ragazzo. “Couldn’t beat out a ball that got away from Jeff McNeil either.”

For now, these are external evaluations from scouts not affiliated with the Mets. The team itself remains largely healthy, with the most notable absence being Juan Soto, who hasn’t played since April 3 and remains the biggest concern on the roster.

The report came from Hazel Mae on X: “Max Scherzer on Sunday’s disappointing outing: ‘(I) lost the ball game. I can look at myself in the mirror, and I’m accountable for how I go out there and execute. Today I didn’t get it done.’”

Scherzer entered that game with a 2.55 ERA, but after the rough outing, his ERA jumped to 9.58, making him a clear target for criticism following the series loss to Minnesota at home.

A tough series for the Blue Jays

Over the three-game set against the Twins, Toronto relied on Patrick Corbin, Eric Lauer, and Scherzer to deliver at home. In the end, Corbin was the only one who managed to secure a win, while Lauer also had a difficult outing.

Scherzer hadn’t had such a rough performance in terms of earned runs with Toronto since September 2025, when the Blue Jays were crushed 20-1 by the Kansas City Royals on the road. In that game, he allowed seven earned runs in just 0.2 innings, his worst regular-season outing with the team last year.

When will Scherzer return to the mound?

According to the team’s schedule, the Blue Jays expect Scherzer to make his next start in Game 2 of their road series against the Arizona Diamondbacks on April 18, giving the veteran time to rest and reset before his next opportunity.

The report came from Hazel Mae on X: “Daulton Varsho has been asked by many fans to change his walk up song, ‘Ordinary’ by Alex Warren. ‘I’m not changing it. My daughter loves the song, so I’m putting it out there, I’m not changing it.’”

The song isn’t entirely new to Varsho. Last season, according to WalkUpDB, a site that tracks MLB players’ walk-up music, he cycled through several tracks, including “My Promise Land” by Josiah Queen and “Bottle Rocket” by Chris Hennessee.

Is “Ordinary” actually a bad walk-up song?

“Ordinary” by Alex Warren is widely popular online, with more than 60 million views on its official lyric video on YouTube. It’s also frequently used across social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and X, making it instantly recognizable.

The track even reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Songs of the Summer chart in 2025. Still, in MLB terms, WalkUpDB shows Varsho is the only player currently using it, as it’s not the typical high-energy “pump-up” track fans expect in stadiums, where hip-hop, rock, or heavy metal are more common.

Among Blue Jays players, musical tastes vary widely, ranging from Meek Mill, Drake, Travis Scott, and Rick Ross to Linkin Park. Ernie Clement, for example, is using “I Was Made for Lovin’ You” by KISS this season, after previously walking up to Akon’s “Angel” in 2025.

Guerrero Jr.’s message was shared by Hazel Mae following the game in which Springer was injured: “It’s baseball, not the NBA where one guy scores 45 points… Everybody in the lineup has to do his part… I’m going to go out there and do my job.”

He’s well aware that, with Springer’s injury, the Blue Jays now have 10 players on the injured list, complicating the situation, but not making it impossible. Guerrero Jr. himself is off to a strong start, hitting .320 with one home run and five RBIs.

The Blue Jays still have firepower at the plate

Despite the injuries, Guerrero Jr.’s message carries weight, especially with the team sitting at 6-8. The top bats in the lineup remain healthy. Alongside him, Ernie Clement has contributed with a .286 average and four RBIs across 56 at-bats.

Jesús Sánchez has also been one of the most productive hitters, posting a .275 average with a pair of home runs and eight RBIs, the second-highest total on the roster so far. Meanwhile, Andrés Giménez is hitting .260 and has added nine RBIs, continuing to be a steady presence.

Toronto still has plenty of talent at the plate and enough depth to replace injured veterans if needed. The bigger concern lies on the mound, where the team is thin on available arms. That’s an area where they may need to explore external options or rely on Triple-A reinforcements as the season progresses.

The most jarring blow comes at the top of the lineup. Losing Springer to a toe fracture removes a veteran catalyst, while Kirk’s absence leaves a massive hole behind the plate. Management and John Schneider now face a daunting task as they determine who will step in during this stretch without one of their most important bats.

The pitching staff has been hit just as hard. José Berríos and Shane Bieber headline a growing list of unavailable arms, while the loss of high-leverage relievers like Yimi García and Bowden Francis forces others into uncomfortable roles.

The Blue Jays’ injured list

The injury bug hasn’t spared the organization’s future either, with names like Trey Yesavage and Cody Ponce adding to the total. When a team loses depth at both the Major League and Triple-A levels simultaneously, internal options quickly become dangerously thin.

• Alejandro Kirk
• George Springer
• Addison Barger
• Anthony Santander
• José Berríos
• Shane Bieber
• Cody Ponce
• Bowden Francis
• Trey Yesavage
• Yimi García

The key for Toronto will be staying steady despite the wave of injuries. Players like Barger didn’t have the best start this season, but last year, his second in the majors, he posted a solid .243 average and delivered three home runs in the postseason, raising expectations for what he could bring in 2026.

At least the Blue Jays still have some flexibility within their depth chart. They can turn to internal replacements and also rely on their Triple-A affiliate, the Buffalo Bisons, to fill key gaps as needed.

Speaking during an April 11 press conference, Mendoza didn’t hold back: “It’s weird because that’s not him. It’s hard to explain. He’ll be the first one, he’ll tell you that he’s got to be better. Never seen that, some of those plays that he’s just out of position at times.”

Mendoza did not indicate whether the Mets will take any specific measures to help Lindor turn things around. So far, he’s hitting just .167 and has yet to make a meaningful impact in terms of home runs or RBIs, recording only 10 hits in 60 at-bats.

Lindor addresses his struggles

SNY, which regularly covers the Mets, captured the moment Lindor responded to questions about his slow start and whether limited spring training, as he recovered from an elbow injury, played a role.

“Francisco Lindor was asked if the lack of a spring training has made his start to the season more difficult: ‘That’s not an excuse. I’m a professional baseball player and I’ve just got to be better. I’ve got to help this team win,’” SNY shared on X.

Compared to last season, Lindor’s 2026 start has been noticeably worse. Through 15 games in 2025, he was hitting .237 with one home run, six RBIs, and 14 hits in 59 at-bats, a stronger opening than what he has shown so far this year.

Springer may not have been off to his best start, hitting just .185, but there was reason to believe he would improve. Now sidelined, he leaves the Blue Jays with two primary options. Alongside Guerrero Jr., Kazuma Okamoto is another name in the mix, having already hit two home runs for the team this season.

If the Blue Jays turn to Okamoto to fill Springer’s spot, they would be relying on a player who has had a slightly stronger start, posting a .220 average with a .651 OPS and three RBIs. However, he is also listed as a third base option on the depth chart, which complicates the decision for manager John Schneider.

Another option emerges as a potential replacement

While not yet official, another name has surfaced as a possible replacement. Dominican outfielder Eloy Jiménez was mentioned in a report by Mike Rodriguez, who wrote on X that this could be a unique opportunity for a player who hasn’t appeared in the majors in over a year and struggled in his last MLB stint.

“According to my sources, as reported to Rompiendo Sports, Eloy Jiménez has been called up to the Major Leagues to replace George Springer, who suffered an injury to one of his toes. The last time Jiménez played in MLB was in 2024,” Rodriguez wrote.

If Jiménez does get the opportunity with Toronto, the challenge will be helping him quickly adjust and contribute, especially given his time away from the majors. Still, his .269 career batting average could make him an appealing option for the team.

Speaking on the challenge of dealing with injuries, Schneider said: “We all signed up for this, and it’s not going to be easy. And I think if any team knows that, it’s us… we’ve been through a lot over the past couple years, and you have to take it as a challenge.”

According to OptaStats on X, “Muncy became the first player in MLB history to record a game with 5+ runs, 4+ hits, 3+ home runs, and a walk-off home run.” He also snapped a rough stretch, ending a six-game home run drought dating back to March 31, during which he had entered the matchup hitting .000.

The Dodgers improved to 10-3 with the win over Texas, and while Muncy had been struggling, he bounced back in dominant fashion. His performance boosted his average to .500, and notably, it marked his first game of the season without a strikeout across five at-bats.

Muncy alongside his teammates

Within the Dodgers lineup, Muncy stands out, but he’s not the only one producing at a high level. Andy Pages has also been instrumental in the team’s strong start, helping fuel their 10-win record and control of the NL West. Pages currently leads the team in multiple categories, including 16 RBIs, three more than Freddie Freeman.

Pages is also setting the pace in hits with 22 so far this season, ten more than Muncy, and no other Dodgers player has reached 20. Despite Muncy’s recent struggles over the previous six games, he still ranks as the third-best hitter among the team’s starters in 2026.

The Dodgers have been one of the hottest teams in baseball early this season, showing consistency both at home and on the road. Their series against the Rangers marks the second time this year they’ve opened a home series with a win, and so far, they’ve dropped just one home series, against the Cleveland Guardians.

“The entire team tonight, a ton of swing and miss, that was our kind of bug. We started off hot, I thought the first inning was really good,” Thomson said following the 5-4 loss, in comments shared by Luke Arcaini on X.

Early in the game, the first four hitters in the lineup delivered, combining to go 3-for-4 with a home run and four RBI to give the Phillies an early lead. But after that, the offense went quiet. Over their next 19 at-bats, they managed just two hits, and despite a solid effort from the pitching staff, they couldn’t hold off Arizona.

The season is still alive for the Phillies

Despite Thomson’s blunt criticism after a tough home loss, the Phillies still have plenty of time to climb in the NL East. They currently sit at 6-7, trailing the New York Mets, who are also dealing with early-season struggles from Carson Benge.

As a bit of perspective, Jeff Kerr shared encouraging numbers on X: “The Phillies were 4-9 through 13 games in 2023, they won 90 games and made the NLCS. The Phillies were 5-8 through 13 games in 2022, they went to the World Series.”

So far in the 2026 season, Philadelphia has won just one home series. They dropped another to the Texas Rangers and are now off to a rough start against the Diamondbacks after splitting six games on the road, where they had hoped to build momentum heading back home.

The report came from Chandler Rome on X: “Joe Espada plans to keep Christian Vazquez paired with Tatsuya Imai for the foreseeable future because ‘right now, I feel like it’s important for the transition of Imai to the major leagues and just to build some stability in our rotation and take us deep into games.’”

After Imai’s recent outing against the Seattle Mariners, 0.1 innings pitched, 1 hit, 3 earned runs, 4 walks, no strikeouts on 37 pitches, it’s clear the Astros need to carefully manage their arms, especially with a pitcher still adjusting to the majors.

Vazquez’s start to 2026

Vazquez has been solid behind the plate through his first seven games, which helps explain why Espada wants him guiding the team’s newest arm. Offensively, he’s hitting .348 over that stretch, adding a home run and eight RBI in what’s been a strong start to the 2026 season.

If Imai can build better chemistry with Vazquez, things could stabilize. Through three MLB starts, he holds a 7.27 ERA, disappointing on the surface, but he hasn’t allowed a home run and has recorded 13 strikeouts in 8.2 innings, suggesting his stuff is still effective.

It’s unclear when Imai will make his next start, though it could come during a series against the St. Louis Cardinals or possibly sooner. Espada will need to pick the right moment as he continues managing a pitcher who, so far this season, has just one win.

The report came from Max Goodman on X (@maxtgoodman): “The Mets have no plans to send Carson Benge down any time soon because of his slow start. David Stearns said New York is ‘going to be patient’ with Benge. He likes a lot of what he’s seen from the rookie so far (quality ABs, defense, speed, etc).”

It’s been a rough contrast for Benge, who hit .366 during spring training with 15 hits and five RBI in 41 at-bats. While the season is still young, he’ll need to adjust quickly, his 13 strikeouts in 45 at-bats highlight the early struggles.

Who would replace Benge if he were sent down?

Benge is currently playing in the outfield, and the Mets do have internal options if a change becomes necessary. Brett Baty is listed on the depth chart as a backup in right field, while also capable of filling roles at designated hitter and third base.

Another option is Tyrone Taylor, who brings versatility across the outfield and could step in if needed. A third depth chart alternative would be Jared Young.

For now, there’s no urgency for the Mets. It’s Benge’s first season in the MLB, and with the front office backing him, the organization appears willing to give him time to improve both his average and overall production.

In that appearance, Wheeler allowed just one earned run, issued one walk, and struck out six batters, reinforcing that his effectiveness on the mound hasn’t dropped off. One of his fastballs even reached 93.8 MPH, another encouraging sign.

Wheeler hasn’t pitched in the majors since last season, with his most recent outing coming on August 15. In that game, he allowed two earned runs, one home run, and four hits while striking out six over 5.0 innings. Just days ago, he said he hopes to return to the MLB with the Phillies.

Wheeler’s return could boost Phillies rotation

Without Wheeler, the Phillies’ current rotation is led by Cristopher Sanchez, who has a 1.65 ERA over 16.1 innings in three starts. Aaron Nola follows with a 3.63 ERA. If Wheeler returns, manager Rob Thomson will need to find a way to fit him into the rotation.

“I’m still a little bit off, that’s why you take these starts so you can tinker here and there but not too much… there’s nothing more I can do but get those reps in,” Wheeler said on April 8, when asked by Cory Nidoh about how close he is to returning.

The Phillies have had their share of struggles on the mound, but getting their veteran ace back could provide stability, especially as the team sits at 6-6 and in fourth place in the NL East as of April 10.

Kylen Mills highlighted Arraez’s strong numbers on X, noting that he also ranks as the fourth-hardest hitter to strike out early this season, with just four strikeouts. That puts him well outside the top 10 in that category, currently led by Matt Wallner of the Minnesota Twins.

Mills added: “8th in MLB in outs above average, which tracks the number of defensive plays made and difficulty,” pointing to Arraez’s impact beyond offense and highlighting his solid work in the infield.

Arraez showing up across multiple leaderboards

The Giants have plenty of reasons to be pleased with Arraez’s production at the plate. He currently appears in seven top-10 statistical leaderboards, including hits, where he’s tied for ninth with several players, among them Brandon Nimmo.

Arraez has yet to hit a home run this season. After hitting eight last year with the San Diego Padres, power isn’t his primary strength. His value comes from consistently producing hits and creating RBI opportunities, which benefits the Giants lineup.

Over his last four games, Arraez has recorded at least one hit in each, putting together a solid streak while striking out just once in that span. The Giants’ next three series will be key in evaluating how well he continues to produce on the road.

Abbey Mastracco was among the first to report on X about the DH situation: “Jorge Polanco is off today, his Achilles doesn’t feel great after playing yesterday. Carlos Mendoza said that at some point they might have to place him on the IL, but the situation remains ‘fluid.’”

Through the early part of the MLB season, Polanco has recorded eight hits in 40 at-bats, with just one RBI and no home runs. His .200 batting average reflects a slow start and limited offensive production so far.

Mets unlikely to lose much without Polanco

At this stage of the season, Polanco hasn’t been a major factor for the Mets, meaning the team can manage if he’s out temporarily. In addition to serving as a designated hitter, he has also been used as a backup option at first and second base, offering defensive flexibility as an infielder.

The Mets are currently in a solid position with their depth. Beyond Baty and Vientos as DH options, players like Luis Robert Jr. and Francisco Lindor are also available, though the latter is less likely to shift roles and has yet to find his rhythm early in 2026.

With a 7-6 record and sitting third in the NL East, the Mets are holding their own. They could be in a stronger position, but they remain ahead of the Philadelphia Phillies, who are currently 6-6 and in fourth place.

Keegan Matheson was among the first to report the news on X: “News: Max Scherzer is dealing with right forearm tendinitis. The Blue Jays knew this going in and it didn’t get any worse. John Schneider is ‘fairly confident’ he’ll make his next start.”

With Schneider’s update, Blue Jays fans can feel some relief, even though the team hasn’t had the best start to the season. Scherzer currently holds a 1-1 record with a 3.38 ERA and six strikeouts, a relatively solid opening for the veteran.

What happens if Scherzer can’t return to the mound?

If Scherzer is unable to make his next MLB start, the Blue Jays will need to adjust their rotation. They could turn to a bullpen arm or call up a pitcher from Triple-A to temporarily fill the spot while he recovers.

Losing Scherzer wouldn’t be ideal for Toronto, especially considering his role last season in helping the team make a deep run. He made 17 starts in the regular season with a 5.19 ERA, and in the postseason he posted a 3.77 ERA across three appearances, adding to his extensive playoff résumé.

Among the team’s starters so far in the 2026 season, Scherzer holds the third-best ERA, trailing Dylan Case (2.79 ERA) and Kevin Gausman (0.75 ERA), who has yet to earn a decision this year.

Responding to reporters including Gabrielle Starr, who shared his comments on X, Cora said: “That’s why we love it here, their expectations are up there with us. Right now we deserve whatever they’re thinking—we’re not playing good baseball.”

Boston returned home hoping to turn things around, but the results haven’t followed. The team has managed just one win in its first four games at Fenway Park, adding to growing frustration among fans eager for improvement.

Red Sox struggling across the board

The issues go beyond inconsistent offense. Boston owns a 4.84 ERA as a staff, highlighting significant problems on the mound, particularly within the starting rotation, which has been one of the team’s biggest weaknesses so far.

Starr also pointed out on X: “Red Sox starting pitchers have allowed the most hits and runs of any AL rotation … and over the fourth-lowest total innings pitched,” underscoring that the struggles extend well beyond the team’s .231 batting average.

Cora now faces the challenge of making adjustments on multiple fronts. Along with offensive inconsistencies, defensive lapses have been costly. In just four games, the Red Sox have allowed 21 runs, including back-to-back losses by 8-6 scores against the San Diego Padres and Milwaukee Brewers—a clear sign of broader issues across the roster.

Following the Wolverines’ latest title, RedditCFB noted on X: “Michigan is the first D1 school ever to win multiple National Championships in Football (1948, 1997, 2023), Baseball (1953, 1962), and Men’s Basketball (1989, 2026).”

However, the post left out another major piece of Michigan’s legacy. The school’s men’s ice hockey program has won nine national championships, more than any other Wolverine team, and remains one of the most successful in college sports, even though its last title came decades ago.

Basketball and baseball remain Michigan’s toughest paths to titles

For Michigan Wolverines men’s basketball, winning just a second national championship since 1908 highlights how difficult it has been for the program to reach the top, even with multiple runner-up finishes and frequent deep tournament runs. A similar story applies to Michigan Wolverines baseball, which hasn’t captured a national title in decades.

Over the past 13 seasons, Michigan’s baseball team has made five postseason appearances and won the Big Ten Conference title twice, once in 2015, marking the program’s ninth conference championship at the time, and again in 2022 with a 10-4 win over Rutgers baseball. Since then, the team has yet to return to the postseason.

While Michigan holds the distinction of being the only school with multiple national championships across several major men’s sports, University of Southern California still leads all Division I programs in total men’s titles with 85. Meanwhile, Stanford University tops the overall list with 129 championships, combining men’s (69) and women’s (60) programs.

“First of all, I want to thank all the people that poured into everyone in our locker room. We’re not here without the love, support and coaching from everybody before us,” May told Tracy Wolfson of CBS Sports following the NCAA Division I tournament final.

While emotion played a role, execution on the court was just as critical. May emphasized Michigan‘s balance throughout the season, noting their ability to respond when one phase struggled. “These guys have done it all year. When one side of the ball was letting us down, the other side picked us up,” he said.

May matches rare John Beilein-era feat with back-to-back elite seasons

Dusty May didn’t just win a national championship, he also accomplished something not seen since the John Beilein era, putting together consecutive standout seasons with Michigan Wolverines men’s basketball.

Beilein last achieved that between the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons, highlighted by consistent success at the top of the conference. May has now mirrored that impact in his first two years, winning the conference tournament title in his debut season and following it up with both a regular-season conference championship and a national title.

Beilein left a lasting legacy at Michigan, and May has acknowledged that their connection continues to play a role behind the scenes. The former Wolverines head coach spent 12 years leading the program and reached two national championship games.

“We talk regularly. He’s always conscious about it—he knows when my off days are, he knows when to call. He’s sat in this seat, so he knows how many directions you’re being pulled,” May told On3. “I enjoy it every single time. He sends me texts, we talk, he sends great nuggets—just reminders of what to be looking out for.”

Michigan has finished as runner-up six times. After winning it all in 1989, the program returned to the national title game four more times but fell short against powerhouse programs like Duke Blue Devils men’s basketball, North Carolina Tar Heels, Louisville, and Villanova Wildcats.

Despite those setbacks, Michigan has remained a consistently competitive program. Over the past decade, the Wolverines have reached the postseason five times and came close again in the 2025-26 season, making another run to the national championship game.

How many national titles does Dusty May have?

Dusty May has yet to win a national championship, either with Michigan or any other program. However, he has made an immediate impact since arriving for the 2024-25 season, leading the Wolverines to the Sweet Sixteen in his first year and previously winning a Conference USA tournament title with another program.

May has posted two strong seasons at Michigan. In his first year, the team went 27-10, followed by an impressive 36-3 campaign. The Wolverines hadn’t reached the 30-win mark since the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons under John Beilein. Since 1908, Michigan has recorded 30 or more wins in just six seasons.

Beyond national championships, Michigan has also found success in the Big Ten Conference. The program owns four conference tournament titles, most recently in 2025 under May, along with 16 regular-season championships, including the 2026 title after a nearly five-year drought.

Speaking to Rhett Bollinger in the clubhouse, Trout addressed the situation directly as swelling in his hand was clearly visible: “We know where they’re trying to get me out, fastballs up and in, so it’s just frustrating. You know, if you can’t control it up there, you shouldn’t do it.”

It’s not the first time this season Trout has been hit. Earlier in the series, Mariners pitcher Bryan Woo also plunked him, though that incident wasn’t as concerning as this latest one against Legumina, who had thrown just 23 pitches at the time in the bottom of the eighth inning.

Some relief for Angels fans

Initial reports suggest the injury may not be serious. Early medical evaluation came back negative for a fracture, offering some relief for Angels fans, though it remains unclear how many days Trout could miss.

Bollinger shared further details on X: “Mike Trout’s left hand was noticeably swollen. Said he initially couldn’t take off his batting glove after being hit and that’s why he left the game. He’s relieved the X-rays were negative because the swelling and loud sound when getting hit scared him. Didn’t hit the pad.”

Through 10 games this MLB season, Trout has helped the Angels to a 5-5 record. He’s hitting .212 with two home runs, three RBIs, and seven hits in 33 at-bats, a solid start overall.

Is Trout the most-hit player in 2026?

Trout does not lead the league in hit-by-pitches so far in 2026. That distinction belongs to Connor Norby of the Miami Marlins, who has been hit three times. Trout is among 17 players who have been hit twice early in the season. In 2025, he was hit just six times.

According to KNBR, Webb said: “There’s 152 games left in the season … I think before anyone hits the panic button you just gotta take a deep breath. We’ve played some good teams, just go out there tomorrow and try to compete.”

In his latest outing, his second loss of the 2026 MLB season, the Giants fell 5-2 despite Webb delivering a strong performance. He held the New York Mets to just one run over seven innings before relievers Keaton Winn and Erik Miller each allowed two runs, sealing the loss.

Tough spot for Giants, but not hopeless

San Francisco enters April 6 with a 3-7 record, sitting at the bottom of the NL West behind the Colorado Rockies, who also have three wins but one fewer loss. It’s a difficult position, even with more than 150 games still to play.

While Webb is right about the long season ahead, slow starts like this are never easy to overcome. The contrast is especially sharp compared to last year, when the Giants opened 8-2 and finished April at 19-12, building early optimism among fans.

That momentum didn’t carry through, however, as San Francisco ultimately finished the 2025 season at 81-81 and missed the postseason, another reminder that both hot and cold starts don’t always define the final outcome.

“I think it’s a really strong group. As long as we stay healthy, stay out on the mound, we can be a stabilizing force for the team,” Senga said on April 5 to SNY. “That goes for everybody and myself. I don’t want to be the one lagging behind, I want to be up there with them.”

So far this MLB season, Senga holds an 0-1 record with a 3.09 ERA. While not dominant, it’s a solid start, and his 16 strikeouts in just two outings suggest his stuff is in form. The next step is translating that into wins.

Is the Mets’ rotation actually that good?

Senga’s confidence isn’t unfounded. Despite a 6-4 record early in the 2026 season, the Mets have shown flashes of dominance on the mound. They recently swept the San Francisco Giants in a three-game stretch, showcasing their pitching depth.

New York currently ranks tied for eighth in overall MLB pitching metrics alongside the Los Angeles Angels, though those numbers include the bullpen. More notably, the Mets’ team ERA sits at 2.53, good for third in the league and a continuation of last year’s strong performance.

One standout strength has been limiting home runs. The Mets are among a small group of teams that have allowed just one homer so far, and they’ve already recorded multiple shutouts, early indicators of a staff that can control games when it’s locked in.

The manager’s comments were shared by Keegan Matheson on X: “We’ve got to get back to playing our baseball. It doesn’t matter who you’re playing, where you’re playing or what time you’re playing them, if you don’t play your baseball, good things don’t happen.”

The Blue Jays showed some fight in the opening game of the series, putting pressure on Chicago, but it wasn’t enough. By the finale, things had gotten worse, as Addison Barger exited early with an ankle issue.

Can the Blue Jays bounce back?

It’s not the worst possible moment for Toronto, and there’s still plenty of time to recover and push toward a postseason return. At this same point last season, after nine games, the Blue Jays held a similar 5-4 record, even after opening 2025 by losing a series to the Baltimore Orioles.

Toronto struggled throughout April last year, finishing the month 14-16, but still managed to find momentum later in the season and ultimately reached the postseason, even battling the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series in what became a significant achievement for the club.

Schneider may be slightly limited without Bo Bichette, but it’s unlikely that absence alone explains the sweep. The White Sox also made solid offseason adjustments and came in with a roster hungry to win.

“News: Addison Barger was removed from the game with ‘bilateral ankle discomfort,’” Keegan Matheson reported on X. It’s another unexpected setback for a team that hasn’t been playing its best and now heads back home with a 4-5 record.

Now the question becomes: if Barger is out, who fills the role? The Blue Jays have several options on the depth chart, including George Springer if needed, though using their DH in that spot would likely be a last resort.

Do the Blue Jays lose much without Barger?

Not really. Addison Barger had struggled at the plate to start the season, entering the game with a .063 average and leaving it at .053. That means the Toronto Blue Jays aren’t losing much offensive production, especially considering his only contributions so far have been two RBIs.

Since it’s unlikely the Blue Jays will use their DH in right field, the remaining options include Myles Straw, Jesús Sánchez, and Nathan Lukes. So there’s no real crisis or panic if Barger is sidelined for a few days.

Now the Blue Jays head back home for a tough series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, without Alejandro Kirk and with two catchers available: veteran Tyler Heineman, who has committed some recent errors, and Brandon Valenzuela, who recorded one hit in three at-bats (.333) in his debut.

The update came from Alex Pavlovic on X (@PavlovicNBCS): “The Giants announced that Jose Butto’s surgery to remove a blood clot went well. He’ll be out 2-4 months.” It may not be the most devastating loss for the bullpen, but given the expectations surrounding him, it’s still a difficult development for fans to absorb.

During spring training, Butto posted a 2.25 ERA over 4.0 innings pitched. Baseball Reference projected him for a 3.63 ERA across 69 innings this MLB season, surpassing the 67 innings he logged in 2025 between the New York Mets and Giants.

Another option for the Giants

While Butto begins a lengthy recovery process, the Giants have already called up Blade Tidwell from Triple-A. He has delivered solid early results in limited action, posting a 0.00 ERA across three innings in a single appearance.

Tidwell could provide another arm for the bullpen. He also saw action with the Mets in 2025, his debut season, appearing in four games, including two starts, and finishing with a 9.00 ERA over 15 innings in limited opportunities in New York.

“It was very exciting. Actually, I didn’t know it was a save, so (Giants catcher Daniel) Susac was handing me the ball after the game, and I was like, ‘why are you handing me the ball?’ And he was like, ‘that’s a save.’ And I said we’re up by five, but it was nice,” Tidwell told KNBR after recording his first save as a reliever.

Valenzuela has spent eight seasons developing in the minors, and as the Toronto Blue Jays await clarity on whether Kirk will require surgery, they need to move quickly to evaluate who can handle duties behind the plate. Losing more games than expected early in the season could quickly become a problem.

The report on Valenzuela’s debut was shared by Hazel Mae on X, who has also been covering the difficult stretch for Brendon Little and how manager John Schneider plans to help the reliever improve, something that could indirectly benefit Valenzuela as well.

Two catchers for the Blue Jays

Valenzuela won’t just get a chance to play in the majors, he could also see time in the upcoming home series against the Los Angeles Dodgers starting Monday, April 6. For now, Toronto will carry two catchers, with Tyler Heineman joining him on the active roster as Kirk’s replacement.

“Blue Jays now have two switch-hitting catchers on their active roster, and it sounds like both Tyler Heineman and Brandon Valenzuela will be used regularly. ‘I think it’ll be a pretty even split,’ John Schneider said,” wrote Ben Nicholson-Smith on X (@bnicholsonsmith).

At the very least, Schneider now has two options. Heineman, who recently took responsibility for the team’s back-to-back losses, is the more experienced of the two, with prior MLB time and familiarity within the organization.

Still, Valenzuela enters in strong form despite the tough circumstances. During spring training, he hit .304 with seven hits in 23 at-bats, including a home run and five RBIs, while striking out just seven times. His minor league career average sits at .242, showing steady offensive potential.

The update came from Keegan Matheson on X (@keeganmatheson): “Alejandro Kirk also had a dislocation in his thumb along with the fracture. He’s meeting with a doctor Monday to determine whether surgery (or a pin) is needed.” For now, Kirk is being replaced by Tyler Heineman, who recently took responsibility for the team’s losses.

The details of Kirk’s injury are somewhat complex. It’s not a fracture at the tip of the thumb, but rather at the knuckle, as manager John Schneider explained. There’s reportedly no ligament damage, though the team is still awaiting further medical evaluation.

The Blue Jays’ situation without Kirk

If Kirk ends up needing surgery, it would be a moderate concern for Toronto. Still, they have options. Heineman remains the most immediate replacement despite his early struggles, while Triple-A catcher Brandon Valenzuela is another potential call-up.

It’s not a worst-case scenario for the Blue Jays. At 4-4, they still have time to adjust and avoid panic if Kirk is sidelined for an extended stretch. He’s been part of the team since 2020 and a key contributor since 2022.

The pitching staff will need to build chemistry with Heineman while they wait for Kirk’s return. That said, he’s not unfamiliar to the organization, he’s been a regular presence since 2024 and also saw time with the team in 2022 and 2023.

“John Schneider notices that Brendon Little just isn’t getting hitters to chase like he did when he was sharper in 2025: ‘We’ve got to figure it out. We’re going to try to put the best team out there every single day, so we’ll definitely sit down and talk about it,’” wrote Keegan Matheson on X (@keeganmatheson).

Schneider knows he needs a reliable reliever to keep opposing hitters in check, but Little hasn’t delivered. Through just five games, he owns a 24.55 ERA with only six strikeouts, numbers that raise serious concerns early in the season.

What could happen with Little?

While Schneider said the team will evaluate what’s going wrong on the mound, one potential move could be sending Little to Triple-A to reset. That’s a possibility Matheson also floated, noting it could benefit the pitcher, who is now in his fourth year with the organization.

“This isn’t working right now for Brendon Little. He has an option remaining, which means this doesn’t need to be an extreme (or permanent) move. A reset in Buffalo would clearly be beneficial. There’s no such thing as ‘early’ in the AL East. These are all big games,” Matheson wrote.

Several analysts have expressed concern about Little’s struggles. Chris Black (@downtoblack) also pointed out how rough things have been, noting an 8.79 ERA over his last 41 appearances, far from ideal for Toronto.

Last season, Little appeared in 79 games and posted a 3.03 ERA, the best year of his career. He also started 2025 strong with a 4.26 ERA over 6.1 innings, helping the team win five of eight games early on, but so far, nothing has resembled that form.

The report came from Ben Nicholson-Smith on X (@bnicholsonsmith): “Speaking to me & Hazel Mae after the game, Tyler Heineman took responsibility for his mistakes. In tears at his locker, he said: ‘The last two games, those losses, they’re on me. Sugarcoat it any way you want to, (yeah) there’s other things going on, but they’re on me.’”

It’s worth noting that Heineman is currently filling in for Alejandro Kirk, who is recovering after being hit in the hand during a recent game. Now, attention turns to whether manager John Schneider will continue to rely on him or consider another option from Triple-A.

How much has Heineman struggled recently?

He committed two key errors in the first two games against the White Sox, mistakes that arguably played a decisive role in both losses. Still, outside of those defensive lapses, he’s been productive at the plate, hitting .400 with four hits in 10 at-bats.

It’s frustrating to see those mistakes, but the Blue Jays may need to be patient. Heineman is more accustomed to a backup role rather than being an everyday starter. Last season, he appeared in 61 MLB games under similar circumstances when Kirk was sidelined.

At least for now, Toronto has time to adjust while Heineman settles into his new role. However, if he were to go down as well, the team could find itself in a much more difficult situation, potentially forcing them to look outside the organization or beyond their current Triple-A depth.

“There’s a lot of baseball left. And there’s no reason to panic, so, um, again, we’re excited to be back. We are excited to be home, play in front of the fans, but, um… you know, it can feel like the end of the world when you go on a road trip, and you only win one game, but in the end of the day, we got 150 plus, you know, more games to play, so everything’s gonna be all right.”

Anthony’s comments were shared on X by Marcos Grunfeld, who regularly covers the Red Sox. Boston’s 2-5 record has drawn attention across the MLB after several tough losses, and more players could soon echo similar messages.

Is there enough time for the Red Sox to recover?

The short answer is yes. With Anthony calling for calm and the team picking up a 5-2 win over the San Diego Padres in their home opener, there are signs things could improve. It’s worth noting that last season, Boston also started slow, losing four of their first five, before turning it around and eventually reaching the postseason.

Right now, the Red Sox are struggling not just in the standings but also at the plate. While Anthony has been relatively solid, Jarren Duran has had a rough start, hitting just .182.

On the other hand, Wilyer Abreu has carried momentum from the World Baseball Classic and is one of the few producing consistently. He’s among the team’s top hitters with a .393 average, leading the club in RBIs, home runs, and hits so far this season.

It was Keegan Matheson who pointed out the Triple-A option on X: “Brandon Valenzuela is a candidate if they need another catcher and he’s off to a very strong start in AAA Buffalo. Impressed in camp.”

Valenzuela was part of the Blue Jays’ spring training, appearing in 11 games and showing plenty of upside. He hit .304 with one home run, seven hits, three runs, and five RBIs across 27 at-bats, numbers that suggest he could be ready for a call-up.

Blue Jays depth chart if Kirk is sidelined

If Kirk’s injury is confirmed, some suspect it could involve a finger, then Tyler Heineman becomes the primary and immediate option. Heineman stepped in during the 10th inning of the loss to the White Sox, a game Toronto ultimately dropped 5-4.

Even though the exit came late in the game, manager John Schneider didn’t hesitate to act cautiously. “When he says that, let’s get it checked out… especially with a guy like him and how important he is to us, I’m going to be ultra cautious there.”

Heineman, a seven-year MLB veteran, appeared in 61 games last season and often filled in when Kirk was unavailable. He finished with a solid .289 average, adding three home runs, 43 hits, and 20 RBIs, strong production for a catcher.

Although Benge is currently playing right field, he remains a viable option thanks to his defensive versatility. Behind him on the depth chart are Tyrone Taylor and Brett Baty as third and fourth options to step in if needed.

Another name in the mix is Jared Young, who provides additional flexibility for the Mets. He can cover not only left field but also right field and even third base, making him a valuable depth piece capable of adjusting to multiple roles.

Mendoza remains confident in Mets’ depth chart

Manager Carlos Mendoza acknowledged the team’s early challenges to start the 2026 season, but even after a recent win without Soto, he made it clear there’s no major roster concern if the star outfielder misses time.

“We’ve got to wait, but we feel good with what we have here,” Mendoza said, as players like Marcus Semien and Francisco Alvarez also addressed how a potential Soto absence could impact the team in the coming games.

Looking at Soto’s injury history, this would mark just the second time he’s dealt with a calf-related issue. While nothing has been officially confirmed for 2026, the last instance came in July 2022, when he was reported to be managing a similar concern.

In an article by Jon Heyman for the New York Post, Lindor addressed the situation directly: “Nimmo and I are brothers. I love him. I love him. He’s a great guy. He’s missed around here, good teammate, good person, good family man.”

Heyman also reported that a source described the rumored leadership clash between Lindor and Nimmo as “bogus.” This isn’t the first time those rumors have surfaced, but Nimmo himself had already denied any issues back in February.

Lindor backs up Nimmo’s earlier comments

During the final week of February, Nimmo publicly stated that there was never any conflict with Lindor, even amid speculation about a battle for the Mets’ captaincy. He made it clear that it had nothing to do with his exit from New York.

“Francisco was nothing but kind, nothing but an amazing teammate, an amazing leader,” Nimmo said at the time, also emphasizing that he remains on good terms with the Mets and team ownership. With Lindor now echoing that sentiment, the situation appears fully settled.

Despite spending years in New York, Nimmo has gotten off to a strong start with the Texas Rangers, hitting .360, his best start in years, with nine hits, four RBIs, and a home run in 25 at-bats.

“Fans not here, but we still love them,” Alcantara told Stephen Strom of the Marlins Radio Network, acknowledging the visibly empty ballpark. Attendance was just 6,605, and the numbers remained similarly low throughout the series.

With the Marlins now sitting at 5-1, outperforming teams like the Boston Red Sox who struggled early, there’s an expectation that fan turnout could improve. Still, it remains uncertain whether attendance will rise during the next home stretch, especially with college baseball also drawing attention at the same time.

When will the Marlins return home?

The Marlins will be back at home on April 6 against the Cincinnati Reds for a four-game series. That stretch could serve as a key indicator of whether attendance rebounds after historically low turnout against the Rockies and White Sox.

Dan Clark shared more context on X: “Just 19,687 fans combined attended the three games between the Marlins and the White Sox. Game 1: 6,515, Game 2: 6,667, Game 3: 6,505. It marks an historic new low in Miami Marlins history.”

When will Alcantara pitch again at home?

Alcantara is expected to take the mound during the Reds series, likely on April 7 in Game 2 based on the current rotation. He would then be in line to pitch again at home during the next series against the Milwaukee Brewers, which begins April 18.

“It’s embarrassing…” was Crochet’s blunt reaction after the loss to the Houston Astros, which marked the team’s fifth straight defeat. He allowed four earned runs over 5.0 innings and described his own performance on the mound as “unacceptable.”

The Red Sox’s only win so far came against the Cincinnati Reds in the opening game of that series. They started the year on a positive note, but things quickly unraveled, with pitching struggles becoming increasingly evident.

Crochet wants things to turn around in Boston

Crochet was part of that lone victory, delivering a strong outing with 6.0 innings, just three hits allowed, and eight strikeouts. At that point, it looked like he could be a stabilizing force for the rotation.

Now, he’s hoping for a turnaround as the team heads home to face the San Diego Padres. “I expect us to have a better response once we get there,” Crochet said, referring to the upcoming series, which will also serve as the Red Sox’s home opener after six road games.

The season is still young, and Boston has time to recover. The Padres series kicks off a stretch that also includes matchups against the Milwaukee Brewers before the team hits the road again on April 11 to face the St. Louis Cardinals.

Vitello addressed whether Devers is healthy enough to play first base: “I think Raffy is closer. I don’t think it’s anything immediate. The one thing we try to do is get other guys caught up to be able to play at that position to lengthen the options we have at this point. Casey Schmitt has shown the best defense more than anything.”

It’s not as if Devers is struggling. Through seven games with the Giants, he’s hitting .259, a solid mark, while Schmitt is slightly ahead at .273. The offensive gap between the two hasn’t been significant so far.

The plan was always to use Devers and Schmitt

According to Vitello, the original plan was to rotate both players at first base to maximize flexibility. However, with Devers still not fully healthy due to earlier hamstring issues, Schmitt has taken advantage of the opportunity.

“The lineup all along was gonna be Casey and Raffy in there so it just kind of became a switch out as a couple weeks out Raffy had some hamstring issues. Right now Casey’s capable of doing damage with the bat, and defensively he’s shown he’s the best over there,” Vitello said.

Statistically, Schmitt has kept pace with Devers. He doesn’t have a home run yet, but he’s collected six hits in 22 at-bats with two RBIs, an encouraging start, especially compared to his .173 average through the first seven games last season.

“What really caught my attention was the players on the team like Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor. On top of that, my dad has always been a Mets fan, so the chance to come here and be closer to him made the decision even easier. Thank God we did,” Polanco told Miriam Luz on Instagram (@miriamluz._).

While there isn’t much widely available information about his father, it is known that his name is Marino Polanco. According to SportsKeeda, he once played for the San Francisco Giants, although there are no official stats listed for him in either the minors or majors.

Polanco was separated from his father for years

Beyond the opportunity to share a clubhouse with Soto and Lindor, fellow Caribbean stars, Polanco is also reconnecting with his father, who has lived in New York for years. The two were separated not only during Polanco’s time with the Mariners and Twins, but also earlier in his childhood.

SportsKeeda detailed that Polanco did not see his father until he was four years old, after returning to the Dominican Republic with his mother. It remains unclear whether they were separated again during his teenage years, as Polanco signed with the Twins at just 16.

Now on a two-year deal with the Mets, Polanco will have the chance to stay close to his father. If he performs well over the next couple of seasons, there’s a strong possibility he could earn another contract to remain in New York, both with the club and near his family, while already off to a modest .200 start at the plate.

Burger spoke about his new teammate after watching him early in the 2026 season: “Nimmo is always a tough out and fighting off pitches. It felt like that’s something we were missing last year…,” he said of the former Met, who is currently hitting .353.

Seager also likes where Nimmo is slotted in the batting order and added, “It’s definitely a good thing to have at the top of the lineup.” Both comments were reported by Kennedi Landry on X (@kennlandry).

Nimmo thriving outside New York

Nimmo doesn’t appear to miss anything about New York so far. His 2026 start with Texas has been far better than his final season with the Mets, when he opened the year with a tough series against the Houston Astros, hitting just .182 with two hits in 11 at-bats.

In Texas, everything has clicked. He’s recorded six hits in 17 at-bats through the most recent game against the Baltimore Orioles, adding another RBI to bring his total to three this season, along with a home run against the Philadelphia Phillies. It’s been an outstanding start for the outfielder.

According to Baseball Reference projections, Nimmo is expected to hit .250 with 21 home runs over 521 at-bats in 2026. If he maintains his current pace with the Rangers, producing at least one hit per game, he could easily exceed those numbers.

The Mets lost a veteran with plenty of experience, but the Rangers gained a proven player with postseason credentials, one who hasn’t started a season this strong since 2021, when he also opened the year hitting .333.

The report came from Francys Romero on X (@francysromerofr): “The Toronto Blue Jays have recalled right-hander pitcher Lázaro Estrada from Buffalo, Triple-A, per source. He is expected to join the team tomorrow. Estrada, 26, threw 2.2 scoreless innings with 3 strikeouts on Friday in Triple-A Buffalo.”

It remains unclear what role Estrada will have with the Blue Jays, or whether his return is directly tied to Ponce’s situation after manager John Schneider shared details about the knee issue that sidelined one of the team’s projected rotation arms.

How good is Estrada?

Estrada made his MLB debut in 2025, though his opportunity was limited. He appeared in just two games as a reliever, logging 7.1 innings with an 8.59 ERA, allowing two home runs, 10 hits, and recording 10 strikeouts. It was a rough introduction, but it gave him a first taste of the majors.

In the minors, Estrada has been developing since 2018. It’s been a long road not only to reach the big leagues, but to secure a consistent role in the bullpen. In 2025, he pitched in 25 games for Triple-A Buffalo, finishing with a 5.73 ERA, a step back from his 2021–2024 stretch, when he consistently posted ERAs under 4.00.

The Blue Jays may not have the deepest bullpen among MLB teams, but they’ve managed their resources effectively so far. That was evident in their opening series against the Athletics, where their pitching staff racked up 50 strikeouts and forced their opponent into an unfortunate record.

Hazel Mae was among the first to report the update on X (@thehazelmae): “Injury Update: Cody Ponce is getting an MRI (right knee) and the team is hoping for the best. John Schneider: ‘he felt it hyperextend a little bit.’”

If the injury proves serious, it could significantly impact the Blue Jays’ rotation in the coming weeks, as he’s viewed as one of the key arms for the team heading into the season. The night only got worse as Brendon Little struggled on the mound, eventually drawing a chorus of boos from the home crowd.

What happens if Ponce can’t return to the rotation?

It wouldn’t be the end of the world for the Blue Jays if Ponce is unable to return. The MLB season is still young, and the team could turn to a bullpen arm or call someone up from the minors to step in as a starter. Given that Toronto doesn’t rely heavily on Ponce, finding a replacement wouldn’t be a major issue.

In an independent assessment, Dr. Brian Sutterer noted in a six-minute video that it’s unlikely Ponce suffered an ACL injury. Instead, the more probable outcome is a hamstring injury caused by the knee hyperextension during the game against the Rockies.

“The Blue Jays’ starting depth beyond Cody Ponce is very thin. Yesavage and Berríos, who are well ahead of Bieber, both still need a couple of weeks, at minimum. From Triple-A: Adam Macko and Lazaro Estrada are on the 40-man and can provide length. Chase Lee is another 2IP option,” wrote Keegan Matheson on X.

The moment was reported by Keegan Matheson on X (@keeganmatheson) before the game had even ended, with the ninth inning still in progress: “Boos coming down on Brendon Little now after back-to-back singles and a four-pitch walk. Very rarely get real boos here, but those were close.”

It marked just the second appearance of the season for Little, who also struggled in his first outing of 2026, allowing three earned runs against the Athletics in a series the Blue Jays ultimately swept 3-0, though fans tend to remember every detail.

A tough situation for Brendon Little

It hasn’t been an easy start to the season for Little, who is now drawing criticism for his work on the mound, with some of his pitches not as effective as expected. Last season, he appeared in 79 games for the Blue Jays, posting a 3.03 ERA, the best mark of his four-year career so far.

“One note from the weekend. Blue Jays wondered if Brendon Little was tipping pitches. They also wanted more four-seamers (which he worked on in spring). John Schneider also said Little: ‘got away from what he was doing in spring’… ‘just didn’t use his pitches correctly’,” wrote Ben Nicholson-Smith on X.

While it’s still very early to judge Little, Blue Jays fans are understandably frustrated, as this marks two straight outings where he hasn’t delivered the way they hoped. He left the game against the Rockies with a 47.25 ERA, already a clear sign things could go sideways.

A report from Destiny Lugardo clarified the situation on X (@destiny_lugardo): “From Rob Thomson pregame yesterday: Brandon Marsh might start in CF today. He wants to give Justin Crawford a day off.”

The reaction wasn’t positive. The update came hours before the first game of the Phillies’ second series, and many questioned why Crawford would be rested just three games into the season, especially while hitting .333.

Is Brandon Marsh the right replacement?

So far, Brandon Marsh has the numbers to step in in the center field when his teammate is resting. He entered the game hitting .333 as well, with three hits in nine at-bats essentially mirroring Crawford’s early production.

“You do realize he’s 22 years old right?? w— is wrong with this manager. 3 days into the season and someone needs a break. As a 22 year old, he should have more energy than half the players on that team,” wrote Mario Sciarrino on X (@sciarrinomario).

Crawford could still be in for a big year

According to projections from RotoChamp, which compiles multiple forecasting models, Crawford is expected to hit above .270 average during this MLB season, his first at the major league level after spending 4 seasons in the minor league system.

The Phillies may have a breakout talent on their hands. At just 22 years old, projections suggest close to 10 home runs across 425+ at-bats, along with 50+ RBIs, and in some models, fewer than 100 strikeouts.

It was a brutal way to begin the year for Oakland. Of those 50 strikeouts, 19 came in Game 2 at Rogers Centre, where the Blue Jays kept Brent Rooker in check with three strikeouts, the same total as Max Muncy and Denzel Clarke. The group combined for just one hit each in a 7-8 loss to Toronto.

Despite the embarrassing record, the Athletics weren’t completely blown out in the series. They lost the first two games in Toronto by just one run, and in the finale, the Blue Jays won by a three-run margin. At the very least, the team showed some fight at the plate.

Another tough year ahead for the Athletics?

Even after dropping their opening series, it’s still unclear how the rest of the season will unfold for the Athletics. They carry just a 1.5% projection to reach the World Series this year. Still, it’s worth remembering the franchise has won nine championships, with their last title coming in 1989.

The last time the Athletics reached the postseason was in 2020, when they advanced to the ALDS. They fell to the Houston Astros 3-1, but under manager Mark Kotsay, the team has shown gradual improvement year over year.

Two positives stand out under Kotsay between 2024 and 2025: the team avoided 100+ losses both seasons, something they hadn’t done since 2021, and their win totals have steadily increased, from 69 wins in 2024 to 76 in 2025. That trend suggests 2026 could be a slightly better year for the Athletics.

“He’s one of the best hitters in the game. He’s going to have a lot of big moments for us,” Lindor said, also pointing to his own adjustment period after arriving from another team. “This is only normal, we are all with him, we know what kind of hitter he is.”

Lindor has had a close look at his teammate’s at-bats, and despite Bichette’s 1-for-14 start, he noted there have been some encouraging swings. Bichette recently addressed the boos from Mets fans, acknowledging his early struggles at the plate.

Lindor hasn’t had it easy either

Lindor is dealing with his own slow start, though not as rough as Bichette’s. He’s currently 2-for-11, finishing the opening series with a .182 average, with both of his hits coming in the final game against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Compared to the start of the 2025 season, this is actually an improvement for Lindor, who went hitless against the Houston Astros in last year’s opening series, despite that season ultimately becoming one of the best of his career, finishing with 644 at-bats, 172 hits, and earning MVP and All-Star consideration.

According to Baseball Reference projections, Lindor is expected to hit .262 with 80 RBIs and at least 28 home runs in 2026. Those numbers would align with his recent production, having posted three straight seasons with 30+ home runs and 80+ RBIs, key contributions for the Mets’ goals this year.

Donovan hit .429 against the Cleveland Guardians in the Mariners’ first series of the year, which ended in a 2-2 split. That mark represents the best start of his career, topping his .364 opening from the 2025 season and every other start he had with the Cardinals dating back to 2022.

Through those first four games, Donovan’s .429 average hasn’t just been impressive, it’s also placed him inside the top ten of multiple batting leaderboards. Even Aaron Judge hasn’t managed that yet, as he’s currently locked in an early home run race with Chase DeLauter of the Guardians.

Donovan proving to be an offensive gem

Donovan has already delivered two home runs for Seattle and is projected by Baseball Reference to finish with 13 in the 2026 season. In just 14 at-bats, he’s added four RBIs and struck out only four times, showing a disciplined and intelligent approach at the plate for the former Cardinals utility man.

Among the various leaderboards he’s climbing, one of the most notable is Runs Created, where Baseball Reference has him tied for sixth with Munetaka Murakami at seven runs. That kind of production is key for a team looking to stack wins early in the season.

Another important metric early on is Times On Base. With 10 so far, Donovan is demonstrating strong pitch recognition and patience at the plate. He currently sits tied for second in that category alongside several other players.

His performance shouldn’t come as a complete surprise, either. During spring training, Donovan hit .413 across 17 games, recording 19 hits in 46 at-bats, giving Seattle Mariners fans a glimpse of what he’s now delivering in the regular season.

Bichette’s response to reporters about the boos and his performance was direct: “If anything, I thought it took too long. I get it. I thought my at-bats were terrible, too,” said the Mets third baseman, who is currently hitting just .071.

The start to the season hasn’t been easy, with only one hit in 14 at-bats. Criticism has been strong, but Bichette also said he’s “wanting a moment” with the Mets, something that could signal to fans that his adjustment period may not take long.

Criticism surrounding Bichette

Fans haven’t been the only ones criticizing Bichette. Reporters and analysts have also pointed out his struggles, though many have praised the way he has handled the situation, calling his response professional and appropriate.

“Okay, you couldn’t have responded to this fanbase any better with that answer. Hopefully he gets things going soon,” wrote Tyler of The Wardy NYM on X, echoing the sentiment of many who appreciated Bichette’s accountability. He has also contributed one RBI so far.

Expectations were high after his 2025 MLB season with the Toronto Blue Jays, including a .467 performance against the Baltimore Orioles in a four-game series. Looking back, Bichette’s only other slow starts came in 2024 (.167 average) and 2021 (.167), making this early stretch one of the toughest openings of his career.