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NWSL Match Preview: Chicago Stars FC (4-13-1) vs. Seattle Reign FC (7-7-3)

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NWSL Match Preview: Chicago Stars FC (4-13-1) vs. Seattle Reign FC (7-7-3)

Venue and Kickoff

Lumen Field, Seattle, Washington (home of the Seattle Reign and Seattle Seahawks; capacity over 68,000 for soccer configurations in recent years).

Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. PT (10:00 p.m. ET / 9:00 p.m. CT).

The match streams on NWSL+.

Current Weather Forecast

Pleasant conditions expected in Seattle. Forecasts call for partly sunny to mostly sunny skies, highs in the upper 70s to low 80s °F (around 77–84°F), lows near 58–62°F, light winds, and little to no precipitation chance (generally under 10–20%). Comfortable for an evening match with clear-to-partly cloudy conditions likely by kickoff.

Team Forms and Standings Context

Seattle Reign sit mid-table (around 9th with 24 points after 17 games). They have shown recent competitiveness, including a 2-2 home draw with Angel City FC, a 3-2 win at Bay FC (late Jess Fishlock goal), a 2-0 win at San Diego Wave, and a 2-0 home win over Portland. Attacking contributions have come from multiple sources, and they remain in the playoff conversation.

Chicago Stars are at the bottom of the table (16th with 13 points). Recent results include a 0-0 home draw with Bay FC, a 1-2 loss at Racing Louisville, and a string of defeats. They have struggled offensively (among the league’s lowest-scoring sides) and defensively. The club recently parted ways with head coach Martin Sjögren (announced around August 12), with interim leadership in place.

Injury Reports

Seattle Reign FC: Lynn Biyendolo (maternity leave) is a longer-term absence. Other notes in recent weeks have included various players (e.g., Jess Fishlock and Sam Meza listed out in some matchweek reports); confirm the latest official report. Core pieces like Claudia Dickey, Sofia Huerta, Phoebe McClernon, and attackers such as Mia Fishel/Maddie Mercado have featured regularly.

Chicago Stars FC: Significant absences include Jordyn Huitema (knee – SEI), Natalia Kuikka (knee – SEI), and others such as Ryan Connaughton, Emma Egizii, Julia Grosso, Michelle Alozie, and Taylor Wood in various recent reports. Mallory Swanson has returned from earlier absences in some contexts. Depth is tested; Katie Atkinson and Alyssa Naeher have shared goalkeeping duties. Check the official NWSL Availability Report for game-day confirmation.

Current Rosters (key/notable players; full squads are larger)

Seattle Reign FC: GK Claudia Dickey (primary), Evan O’Steen/others; Defenders Sofia Huerta, Phoebe McClernon, Ryanne Brown, Jordyn Bugg, Madison Curry, Shae Holmes, Emily Mason; Midfielders Jess Fishlock, Angharad James-Turner, Ainsley McCammon, Sally Menti, Sam Meza, Maddie Mercado; Forwards Mia Fishel, Maddie Dahlien, Emeri Adames, Nerilia Mondésir, Brittany Ratcliffe, Holly Ward. Experienced core mixed with young talent.

Chicago Stars FC: GK Alyssa Naeher, Katie Atkinson, Halle Mackiewicz; Defenders Sam Staab, Michelle Alozie, Aaliyah Farmer, Elise Evans, Leila Ouahabi, Taylor Wood; Midfielders Brianna Pinto, Julia Grosso, Manaka Hayashi, Bea Franklin, Anna Gasper, Maitane, Tessa Dellarose, Emma Egizii; Forwards Mallory Swanson, Jordyn Huitema, Jameese Joseph, Nádia Gomes, Ryan Gareis, Jenna Bike, Ivonne Chacón, Micayla Johnson. Veteran presence (Naeher, Swanson) alongside younger and international players, though injuries have limited options.

Key Player vs. Player Matchups

Mia Fishel / Maddie Mercado / Maddie Dahlien / Jess Fishlock (Seattle attack/mid) vs. Sam Staab / Aaliyah Farmer / Chicago midfield and goalkeepers: Seattle’s multi-threat attack and Fishlock’s experience/creativity will test Chicago’s depleted back line and shot-stoppers (Naeher/Atkinson). Mercado has been a consistent scorer.

Mallory Swanson / Brianna Pinto / Jameese Joseph / Nádia Gomes (Chicago attack/mid) vs. Sofia Huerta / Phoebe McClernon / Jordyn Bugg and Claudia Dickey: Swanson’s quality and Pinto’s work rate against Seattle’s organized defense. Chicago needs clinical finishing on limited chances.

Broader: Seattle’s home form and depth vs. Chicago’s resilience in draws and transition opportunities. Midfield battles (McCammon/Meza vs. Pinto/Hayashi) and set pieces could decide the outcome.

Series History

Chicago holds a slight all-time edge (roughly 12-10-9 or similar historical records dating back years). The teams have not met yet in the 2026 regular season; this is the first of two scheduled meetings. Seattle has not beaten Chicago since a 2023 road win, making recent head-to-head competitive or Chicago-favored in some stretches.

MATCH ODDS

Chicago Stars FC               + 550

Seattle Reign FC               – 275

Draw                                     + 370

Over 2.5 – 135                   Under 2.5 – 105

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, August 13, 2026

NWSL Match Preview: Bay FC (5-9-4) vs. Utah Royals (10-6-3)

NWSL Editor
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NWSL Match Preview: Bay FC (5-9-4) vs. Utah Royals (10-6-3)

Venue and Kickoff

America First Field, Sandy, Utah (home of Real Salt Lake and the Utah Royals; capacity around 20,000).

Kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. MT (10:00 p.m. ET).

The match is available on NWSL+ (and potentially other local/streaming options such as KMYU).

Current Weather Forecast

Expect variable conditions in Sandy/Salt Lake Valley. Forecasts point to highs in the low-to-mid 80s °F (around 80–83°F), lows near 57–63°F, with partly sunny to mostly cloudy skies and a chance of showers or thunderstorms (roughly 40–50% during the day/afternoon, possibly lingering into the evening). Light winds (south/southeast around 5–10 mph). Humidity moderate; potential for brief disruptions but playable for an evening match. Monitor for any pop-up storms.

Team Forms and Standings Context

Utah Royals sit near the top of the table (3rd with 33 points after 19 games, strong goal differential around +11). They have been competitive at home and capable of high-scoring outings, including a recent 5-1 win over Portland Thorns. Recent results include a 2-1 loss at Denver Summit, the big home win over Portland, a 1-0 loss to Washington Spirit, a 4-1 win at North Carolina Courage, and a 1-0 win over Orlando Pride. Solid attacking output (around 32 goals) supports playoff positioning.

Bay FC is lower in the standings (around 14th with 19 points). Recent form has been mixed-to-struggling: a 0-0 draw at Chicago Stars (snapping a losing streak), a 2-3 home loss to Seattle Reign, a 0-1 loss to Gotham FC, a 0-1 loss at Houston Dash, and earlier wins such as 3-0 over North Carolina. They have shown defensive resilience at times (Jordan Silkowitz active in goal) but limited scoring consistency on the road.

Injury Reports

Utah Royals: Out/SEI typically include Alex Loera (knee) and KK Ream (knee). Other absences have varied (e.g., earlier notes on players like Kiana Palacios in some reports); confirm latest official report closer to kickoff. Key attackers and defenders generally available.

Bay FC: Ongoing absences often include Alyssa Malonson (knee – SEI), players on maternity leave (e.g., Abby Dahlkemper, Caprice Dydasco, Emily Menges), and others such as Anouk Denton (lower leg) or Taylor Huff in prior reports. Racheal Kundananji has had international duty notes at times. Depth and young talent (e.g., Claire Hutton, Karlie Lema) fill gaps. Check the official NWSL Availability Report for game-day updates.

Current Rosters

Utah Royals: GK Mandy McGlynn (primary), Mia Justus; Defenders Tatumn Milazzo, Kate Del Fava, Ana Tejada, Nuria Rábano, Kaleigh Riehl, Miyabi Moriya; Midfielders/Attackers Cloé Lacasse (key contributor with goals/assists), Mina Tanaka, Cece Delzer, Kiana Palacios, Narumi Miura, Brecken Mozingo, Paige Cronin, Lara Prašnikar, Dayana Pierre-Louis, Madison Hammond. Strong mix of international experience and attacking threat.

Bay FC: GK Jordan Silkowitz (workhorse), Emmie Allen/Camryn Miller; Defenders Sydney Collins, Aldana Cometti, Maddie Moreau, Kelli Hubly, Anouk Denton, Heather Gilchrist; Midfielders Claire Hutton, Hannah Bebar, Joelle Anderson, Dorian Bailey, Taylor Huff, Kennedy Fuller; Forwards Karlie Lema, Racheal Kundananji, Cristiana Girelli, Alex Pfeiffer, Onyeka Gamero, Keira Barry. Young core with international additions and emerging talent.

Key Player vs. Player Matchups

Cloé Lacasse / Mina Tanaka / Cece Delzer / Kiana Palacios (Utah attack) vs. Sydney Collins / Aldana Cometti / Bay midfield and Jordan Silkowitz: Utah’s productive attackers (Lacasse strong in goals and assists) will test Bay’s back line and Silkowitz’s high-volume shot-stopping. Utah’s home attacking form is a major edge.

Karlie Lema / Claire Hutton / Racheal Kundananji / Alex Pfeiffer (Bay attack/mid) vs. Kate Del Fava / Tatumn Milazzo / Ana Tejada and Utah’s defensive structure: Lema’s finishing and Hutton’s dynamism (plus Kundananji’s physicality when available) against Utah’s organized defense. Bay needs clinical finishing and transitions to threaten.

Broader: Utah’s home possession and set-piece threat vs. Bay’s counter-attacking potential and goalkeeper reliability. Midfield battles (Miura/Hammond vs. Hutton/Bebar) will influence control.

Series History

In 2026 the sides played to a 0-0 draw at Bay FC (May 10 at PayPal Park). Prior meetings have been competitive, with Utah often competitive or successful in head-to-head (historical edge in some recent seasons). Limited 2026 sample but Utah has generally been the stronger side this year.

MATCH ODDS

Bay FC                                   + 250

Utah Royals                        – 125

Draw                                     + 280

Over 2.5 – 170                   Under 2.5 + 115

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, August 13, 2026

NWSL Match Preview: Kansas City Current (9-7-3) vs. NJ/NY Gotham FC (12-3-4)

NWSL Editor
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NWSL Match Preview: Kansas City Current (9-7-3) vs. NJ/NY Gotham FC (12-3-4)

Venue and Kickoff

Sports Illustrated Stadium (formerly Red Bull Arena), 600 Cape May St, Harrison, New Jersey. Capacity ~25,000.

Kickoff is 8:00 PM ET.

The match airs on Prime Video..

Current Weather Forecast

Expect favorable conditions for an evening match. Forecasts for Harrison, NJ on August 14 call for sunny to partly cloudy skies, highs in the mid-to-upper 80s °F (around 85–89°F / 29–32°C), lows near 70–72°F, light northwest/north winds (5–10 mph, gusts possible to ~20 mph), low precipitation chance (generally under 20–30% or near zero for the day/evening), and moderate humidity. Comfortable for play and spectators.

Team Forms and Standings Context

Gotham sits atop the NWSL table with a strong defensive record (around 24 goals for, 12 against in 19 games) and recent winning form. Recent results include wins over San Diego Wave (1-0), Houston Dash (1-0), Bay FC (1-0), a draw at Portland (2-2), and a comeback win over Seattle (3-2). They have been difficult to break down at home and on the road.

Kansas City is mid-table (around 7th), with a better home record than road record and roughly 30 goals scored. Recent form is mixed: draws at Houston (1-1) and vs. Angel City (1-1), a big home win over Racing Louisville (5-1), a loss at Boston Legacy, and a draw vs. San Diego. They have shown scoring ability but inconsistency, particularly away. Temwa Chawinga has been involved with Malawi’s WAFCON success and is expected to factor in.

Injury Reports

Gotham FC: Out/SEI — Kayla Duran (knee/ACL, season-ending earlier), Emily Sonnett (knee, season-ending), Denise O’Sullivan (knee). Other depth available; Ann-Katrin Berger has been solid in goalnwslsoccer.com +1

Kansas City Current: Alana Cook (SEI). Recent notes indicate returns or near-returns for players like Lorena and Kayla Sharples; Michelle Cooper and others have had soft-tissue issues earlier but progress reported. Temwa Chawinga returning from international duty. Full current availability should be confirmed closer to kickoff via official NWSL reports.

Current Rosters

Gotham FC: GK Ann-Katrin Berger, Teagan Wy/Shelby Hogan; Defenders Bruninha, Tierna Davidson, Jess Carter, Mandy Freeman; Midfielders Rose Lavelle, Jaelin Howell, Jaedyn Shaw, Savannah McCaskill, Taryn Torres; Forwards Sam Kerr, Guro Reiten, Midge Purce, Jordynn Dudley, Andrea Kitahata. Strong attacking and midfield talent with international experience.

gothamfc.com +1

Kansas City Current: GK Lorena, Marisa Jordan; Defenders Izzy Rodriguez, Kayla Sharples, Elizabeth Ball, Gabrielle Robinson, Laney Rouse; Midfielders Debinha, Croix Bethune, Lo’eau LaBonta, Rocky Rodríguez, Vanessa DiBernardo, Bayley Feist; Forwards Temwa Chawinga, Michelle Cooper, Haley Hopkins, Penelope Hocking, Amelia White, Gianna Paul. High-end attacking talent led by Chawinga and Debinha.

Key Player vs. Player Matchups

Temwa Chawinga / Debinha / Michelle Cooper (KC attack) vs. Tierna Davidson / Jess Carter / Bruninha and Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham defense/GK): Chawinga’s pace, finishing, and creativity (multiple goals this season plus international form) against Gotham’s organized back line and Berger’s shot-stopping will be decisive. Debinha’s vision and set-piece threat add another layer.

Sam Kerr / Guro Reiten / Jaedyn Shaw / Rose Lavelle (Gotham attack/mid) vs. Izzy Rodriguez / Kayla Sharples / KC midfield and goalkeepers: Kerr’s movement and finishing, Reiten’s delivery, Shaw’s dynamism, and Lavelle’s creativity against KC’s defensive structure and transition play. Gotham’s midfield control (Howell et al.) will aim to limit KC’s counters.

Broader: Gotham’s possession and defensive solidity vs. KC’s home-like attacking bursts and ability to score in bunches (as seen in the 5-1 win). Set pieces and transitions are likely swing factors.

Series History

In 2026: Kansas City won the earlier regular-season meeting 2-1 at home (April 4; Debinha and Cooper scored for KC, Shaw for Gotham). Gotham defeated KC 2-0 in the NWSL Challenge Cup final (June 26; Esther González penalty and Jordynn Dudley). Prior seasons and playoffs have featured competitive matches, with Gotham holding recent championship pedigree.

MATCH ODDS

Kansas City Current        + 280

NJ/NY Gotham FC            – 130

Draw                                     + 260

Over 2.5 – 175                   Under 2.5 + 125

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, August 13, 2026

Seattle Mariners Select INF Brock Rodden from Triple-A Tacoma

MLB Editor
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Seattle Mariners Select INF Brock Rodden from Triple-A Tacoma

Rodden, the Mariners No. 19 ranked prospect according to MLB Pipeline, is set to make his MLB debut

HOUSTON – Seattle Mariners Executive Vice President & General Manager of Baseball Operations Justin Hollander announced today the following roster moves:

  • Brock Rodden (#90), INF, selected from Triple-A Tacoma.
  • Colt Emerson, INF, placed on 10-day Injured List (left wrist tendon inflammation).

The Mariners 40-man roster is now at 39 players.

Rodden (rod-en), 26, will make his Major League debut when he first appears in a game. The switch-hitting infielder is batting .262 (94×359) with 54 runs, 22 doubles, 3 triples, 19 home runs, 65 RBI, 8 stolen bases, a .342 OBP and slugging .499 for an .841 OPS in 92 games with Triple-A Tacoma this season. He has appeared defensively at shortstop (30 G), third base (35 G), second base (24 G), left field (8 G) and center field (1 G) with the Rainiers.

Over his last 16 games with the Rainiers (July 23-c), he is batting .269 (18×67) with 3 doubles, 2 triples, 7 home runs, 12 RBI and an 1.015 OPS. Rodden is ranked as the Mariners No. 19 prospect by MLB Pipeline and No. 18 by Baseball America.

The 5-foot-7, 170-pound infielder was selected by the Athletics in the 10th round of the 2022 MLB First-Year Player Draft, but did not sign and was again selected by the Seattle Mariners in the 5th round of the 2023 MLB First-Year Player Draft out of Wichita State University (KS). He has appeared in parts of 4 minor league seasons, all in the Mariners organization, combining to hit .270 (315×1,165) with 185 runs, 70 doubles, 10 triples, 40 home runs, 172 RBI and 55 stolen bases, getting on base at a .349 clip and slugging .451 (.799 OPS) in 298 games.

Rodden will be the fifth member of the Mariners 2023 draft class to appear in a game with the Mariners, joining Colt Emerson (1st round), Ben Wiliamson (2nd round), Brandyn Garcia (11th round) and Logan Evans (12th round).

Emerson, 21, is batting .190 (42×221) with 6 doubles, 1 triple, 8 home runs, 3 stolen bases and an .581 OPS in 68 MLB games. The rookie made his MLB debut on May 17 and is the second youngest player to appear in the Majors this season, trailing only Pirates rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin.

The left-handed hitting infielder has appeared in 38 games with Triple-A Tacoma this season, batting .255 (37×145) with 26 runs, 8 doubles, 1 triple, 7 home runs, 26 RBI and 17 walks, reaching base at a .347 clip and slugging .446 for an .837 OPS. Over 262 career minor league games, Emerson is batting .282 (287×1016) with 191 runs, 63 doubles, 8 triples, 29 home runs, 154 RBI, 155 walks and 47 stolen bases, getting on base at a .391 clip, slugging .446 with an .837 OPS.

The left-handed hitting infielder was selected by the Mariners in the 1st round (22nd overall) of the 2023 MLB First-Year Player Draft out of John Glenn High School in New Concord, Ohio. On March 31, 2026, the Mariners announced that Emerson signed a contract extension through 2033, with a club option through 2034.

MLB Game Preview: St. Louis Cardinals (61-60) vs. Chicago Cubs (71-51)

MLB Editor
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MLB Game Preview: St. Louis Cardinals (61-60) vs. Chicago Cubs (71-51)

Venue: Wrigley Field, Chicago, Illinois
TV/Stream: Apple TV+ Starting Pitchers

Cardinals: LHP Matthew Liberatore (5-9, 5.15 ERA, 1.52 WHIP, 113.2 IP, 110 K, 43 BB, 20 HR)

Cubs: RHP Clay Holmes (4-5, 2.86 ERA, 1.16–1.17 WHIP, 56.2 IP, 46 K, 20 BB, 4 HR)

Holmes (acquired from the Mets near the deadline) is making his second start with Chicago after a rough Cubs debut (4 IP, 4 ER vs. Kansas City on Aug. 8). He relies heavily on a sinker (~94 mph, high ground-ball rate) and secondary pitches that generate soft contact. Liberatore has been more hittable overall, with elevated home-run and WHIP numbers, though he has shown flashes (including a recent strong outing).

Venue and Weather Forecast

Wrigley Field (neutral park factor ~1.02). Daytime start. Forecast for Chicago/Wrigley area: Highs in the mid-to-upper 70s°F (around 75–79°F), mostly cloudy/humid with a slight chance of showers or isolated thunderstorms (precipitation chance ~20% during game hours, higher later). East/northeast winds around 5–10 mph (gusts possible). Conditions lean toward playable baseball with limited extreme wind influence expected.

Injury Reports

Cardinals:

Ramón Urías (3B, 60-day IL, elbow) – expected return ~Aug. 25

Max Rajcic (RP, 60-day IL, elbow) – longer-term

Cubs: Multiple arms and position players affected. Key names include Matt Shaw (RF/OF, 10-day IL, hand; nearing possible rehab), Edward Cabrera (SP, 15-day IL, hamstring; rehabbing), Daniel Palencia and Hoby Milner (RPs, 15-day IL, with returns around Aug. 14 window), Gavin Hollowell (RP, 15-day IL), plus longer-term absences (Justin Steele, Hunter Harvey, Shelby Miller, others on 60-day IL). Bullpen depth is tested.

Rosters reflect active 2026 personnel with key contributors such as Alec Burleson, Jordan Walker, Iván Herrera, Masyn Winn, and JJ Wetherholt for St. Louis; Pete Crow-Armstrong, Alex Bregman, Nico Hoerner, Seiya Suzuki, Dansby Swanson, Carson Kelly, and Michael Busch among Cubs regulars.

Key Player Matchups and Notes

Liberatore (LHP) faces a Cubs lineup that has produced well against left-handers in spots. Notable historical/recent trends vs. Liberatore include solid contact from players like Nico Hoerner, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Alex Bregman (hot recently: multi-hit production and power in recent stretch), and Michael Busch.

Crow-Armstrong (strong overall slash, power, and speed) stands out as a high-upside threat. Holmes’ sinker-heavy approach targets ground balls and soft contact against a Cardinals offense led by Burleson (.287 AVG range, solid power) and Walker (team HR leader, ~23 HR, strong SLG).

Cubs offense has been more productive season-long (higher runs, HRs). Cardinals have shown recent hitting streaks and solid production when collecting 8+ hits.

Recent Team Forms

Cardinals: Strong recent stretch (roughly 7-3 in last 10). Recent results include series wins/strong showings vs. Phillies (e.g., 7-1, 2-0) and Rockies. Playing improved baseball and competitive for a wild-card spot (though long odds). Road record 29-26.

Cubs: 8-2 in last 10 entering the series, though they dropped a 7-0 shutout at Washington on Aug. 13 (snapping a three-game win streak). Strong home mark (35-24). Second in NL Central, solid playoff positioning. Offensive output has been high in recent games (averaging well above 5 RPG in stretches).

Series History

Season series tied 5-5 through 10 games. Cubs have taken 4 of the last 5 meetings. Recent results have featured both low-scoring and high-scoring affairs (including a 17-1 Cardinals blowout earlier and several Cubs wins by multiple runs). Classic NL Central rivalry with split outcomes overall this year.

Betting Trends

Cubs strong as favorites and at home; Cardinals competitive as underdogs. Season series totals mixed; recent head-to-head has seen Overs in several games. Cubs have hit the Over at a solid rate overall; Cardinals more mixed.

GAME ODDS

St. Louis Cardinals           8

Chicago Cubs                     – 176

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, August 13, 2026

Zamari Walton and Jelani Stafford fined for actions in Week 10

CFL Editor
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Zamari Walton and Jelani Stafford fined for actions in Week 10

Department of Health, Safety and Integrity issues player discipline

TORONTO – The Canadian Football League (CFL) Department of Health, Safety and Integrity manages league discipline, while the Office of the Commissioner oversees suspendible offences.

The Department – which includes Chief Football Operations Officer Greg Dick, Vice-President of Officiating Darren Hackwood, Vice-President of Football Operations and Player Safety Eric Noivo and Associate Vice-President of Football Operations Ryan Janzen – has issued two fines from Week 10.

  • Ottawa defensive lineman Jelani Stafford has been fined for unnecessary roughness, committing a non-football action on Saskatchewan linebacker Nick Wiebe.
  • Hamilton defensive back Zamari Walton has been fined for delivering a low block on BC fullback Jacob Bond.

Per CFL policy, the league does not announce:

  • Amounts of player fines
  • Discipline related to dress code violations
  • Discipline involving teams or staff
  • Discipline involving players who have been released

NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Preview: Black’s Tire 250

Agate Editor
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NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Preview: Black’s Tire 250

Richmond Raceway in Richmond, Virginia (unincorporated Henrico County).

Venue and schedule details: Richmond Raceway is a permanent 0.750-mile (1.207 km) D-shaped asphalt short track, often called “America’s premier short track.” It races somewhat like a superspeedway due to its unique shape, multiple grooves, and high speeds, with frequent contact.

Key specs include 14° banking in the turns, 8° on the 1,290-foot frontstretch, and 2° on the 860-foot backstretch; track width is about 60 feet plus a 10-foot apron. Turn radii are larger in Turns 1/4 than 2/3. The race distance is 250 laps (187.5 miles / ~301 km), with stages typically at laps 70/140/250.

Scheduled start is approximately 7:30 p.m. ET (some listings note later broadcast windows around 11:30 p.m. ET). Coverage is on FS1 (TV) and NRN (radio, with booth announcers including Alex Hayden and Todd Gordon). Practice and qualifying occur earlier Friday (around 1–6 p.m. ET windows depending on the source). It opens Richmond’s 80th anniversary NASCAR weekend, ahead of the Cup Series Cook Out 400 on Saturday.

Weather conditions: Forecasts for Richmond on August 14 point to warm, humid summer weather with highs near 89–91°F during the day, cooling to the low-to-mid 70s overnight. Expect partly to mostly cloudy skies with a 30–40% chance of showers/thunderstorms, especially afternoon into evening, and light winds (around 5 mph, variable/northerly). Track conditions could range from dry and grippy to potentially affected by isolated storms; humidity will be a factor for drivers and tire management.

Entry list and notable drivers: Roughly 39 entries (three will miss the field). Key full-time contenders include Layne Riggs (#34 Front Row Motorsports Ford), Kaden Honeycutt (#11 Tricon Garage Toyota), Chandler Smith (#38), Christian Eckes, Gio Ruggiero (#17 Tricon), Ty Majeski (#88 ThorSport Ford), Ben Rhodes, Grant Enfinger (#9), Daniel Hemric (#19 McAnally-Hilgemann Chevrolet), Stewart Friesen, Tyler Ankrum (#18), and others. Notable part-timers/guests: Corey Heim (#5 Tricon Toyota, 2025 champion and defending Richmond winner), Christopher Bell (Halmar Friesen), Shane van Gisbergen (#7 Spire Chevrolet, ineligible for points), Elliott Sadler (#25 Kaulig Ram), Brenden Queen (#12 Kaulig Ram, strong rookie contender with Langley Speedway ties), Connor Hall (#4 Niece), Tanner Gray (#15 Tricon, with Black’s Tire primary sponsorship), and local/alumni interest from Langley Speedway drivers. Black’s Tire also supports community/dealer activations.

Race history at Richmond: The Truck Series has raced here since 1995 (with a long hiatus before returning in 2020). Recent winners include Corey Heim (2025, from the pole), Ty Majeski (2024), Carson Hocevar (2023), Chandler Smith (2022), John Hunter Nemechek (2021), and Grant Enfinger (2020). Earlier multiple winners include Mike Skinner, Jack Sprague, and Tony Stewart (back-to-back in 2002–03). Chevrolet has the most historical manufacturer wins; recent races often feature stage battles, restarts, and short-track strategy. The track rewards drivers who can manage tires, find the preferred groove, and handle traffic/contact.

Recent driver forms and standings (after 16 races, post-IRP): Layne Riggs leads the points (approx. 716) with 5 wins, strong laps-led totals (~492), multiple poles/top-5s, and recent dominance including the IRP win. Kaden Honeycutt sits second (~616 points, 1 win, consistent top-10s). Chandler Smith is third (~563, 2 wins). Other strong recent performers include Christian Eckes, Gio Ruggiero, Ty Majeski (2024 Richmond winner), and Grant Enfinger. Corey Heim (part-time this year after the 2025 title) has 3 wins in limited starts and won here in 2025; he remains a top outright threat. Playoff pressure is building with the regular season winding down (top 10 typically advance after Race 18). Local short-track experience (e.g., Queen, Hall) could factor on the D-shaped oval.

Driver matchups and keys to the race: Riggs vs. the field for continued points dominance and another short-track win; Honeycutt looking to close the gap with consistency; Heim (if full speed) as the defending winner and speed threat against full-timers; Majeski and Smith for historical/recent Richmond success; Tricon Garage strength (Heim/Honeycutt/Ruggiero/Gray); guest stars like Bell and SVG adding unpredictability on a track that favors aggression and restarts. Strategy revolves around tire wear, track position on the multi-groove surface, stage points, and clean air vs. traffic. Night racing under the lights amplifies the short-track intensity.

DRIVER                                                 ODDS

Corey Heim                                        + 200

Layne Riggs                                        + 300

Ty Majeski                                          + 450

Christopher Bell                               + 600

Chandler Smith                                 + 700

Kaden Honeycutt                             + 1000

Shane Van Gisbergen                    + 1200

Christian Eckes                                  + 1600

Giovanni Ruggiero                          + 3000

Grant Enfinger                                  + 4000

Tyler Ankrum                                     + 4500

Landen Lewis                                     + 5000

Daniel Hemric                                   + 5000

Ben Rhodes                                        + 5500

Stewart Friesen                                + 7000

Jake Garcia                                         + 8000

Tanner Gray                                       + 10000

Corey Lajoie                                       + 11000

Parker Eatmon                                  + 11000

Nick Leitz                                            + 11000

Brenden Queen                                + 11000

Justin Haley                                        + 13000

Cole Butcher                                      + 13000

Andres Perez de Lara Gonzalez  + 15000

Connor Hall                                        + 15000

Elliott Sadler                                      + 15000

Kasey Kleyn                                        + 30000

Dawson Sutton                                 + 30000

Kris Wright                                         + 50000

Mason Massey                                  + 70000

Frankie Muniz                                   + 70000

Dystany Spurlock                             + 70000

Derek Lemke                                     + 70000

Timothy Tyrrell                                 + 100000

Timmy Hill                                          + 100000

Spencer Boyd                                    + 100000

Justin Carroll                                      + 100000

Caleb Costner                                    + 100000

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, August 13, 2026

WNBA Game Preview: Portland Fire (13-20) vs. Seattle Storm (7-28)

WNBA Editor
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WNBA Game Preview: Portland Fire (13-20) vs. Seattle Storm (7-28)

Venue and Tip-Off Time

Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, Washington (home of the Seattle Storm and Seattle Kraken).

Tip-off is set for 10:00 p.m. ET (7:00 p.m. PT).

The game airs on ION.

Team Forms and Standings Context

Portland Fire (expansion franchise) sit in the middle-to-lower Western Conference (around 5th/9th overall). They have shown competitiveness in their inaugural season, recently beating Seattle 100-93 at home on August 8 (Bridget Carleton 24 points) and Toronto, though they fell to Minnesota 85-81 on August 12. They hold a winning record against the Storm this season.

Seattle Storm are at the bottom of the West (8th, eliminated from playoff contention). They snapped an 11-game losing streak with a 97-88 home win over the Chicago Sky on August 10 (Dominique Malonga 26 points), but entered that game on a long skid that included the recent loss in Portland. Home record is roughly 5-11.

Injury Reports

Portland Fire: Sarah Ashlee Barker (knee/ACL – out for season), Sania Feagin (knee/ACL – out for season). Carla Leite has been day-to-day/out with a knee issue in recent games. Teja Oblak has had knee concerns (day-to-day in some reports). Amy Okonkwo has had rest notes. Confirm final status.

Seattle Storm: Katie Lou Samuelson (knee – out/day-to-day in recent reports). Flau’jae Johnson (ankle – day-to-day/out recently). Other depth notes have appeared. Dominique Malonga and Natisha Hiedeman have been key available pieces.

Current Rosters (key/notable players)

Seattle Storm: Guards Natisha Hiedeman, Jade Melbourne, Zia Cooke, Flau’jae Johnson, Taina Mair; Forwards Jordan Horston, Katie Lou Samuelson, Mackenzie Holmes, Taylor Thierry; Centers/Forwards Dominique Malonga, Ezi Magbegor, Stefanie Dolson, Awa Fam. Young core with Malonga’s production and Hiedeman’s playmaking.

Portland Fire: Guards Carla Leite, Teja Oblak, Jordan Harrison, Karlie Samuelson, Holly Winterburn, Sarah Ashlee Barker (out); Forwards Bridget Carleton, Emily Engstler, Nyadiew Puoch, Frieda Buhner, Amy Okonkwo, Sania Feagin (out); Centers Megan DiLeo/Gustafson, Luisa Geiselsöder, Serah Williams. Mix of veterans (Carleton) and international/young talent.

Key Player vs. Player Matchups

Dominique Malonga / Ezi Magbegor (Storm frontcourt) vs. Bridget Carleton / Emily Engstler / Nyadiew Puoch / Megan DiLeo (Fire frontcourt): Malonga’s scoring and rebounding against Portland’s versatile forwards. Interior battle and second-chance opportunities will matter.

Natisha Hiedeman / Jade Melbourne (Storm guards) vs. Carla Leite / Jordan Harrison / Karlie Samuelson (Fire backcourt): Playmaking and perimeter scoring. Leite’s assist numbers (when healthy) vs. Hiedeman’s all-around game.

Broader: Seattle’s home energy and recent snap of the skid vs. Portland’s edge in the season series and ability to score in bunches. Three-point shooting and turnovers could decide a close matchup.

Series History

Portland has dominated the 2026 meetings: wins of 100-93 (Aug. 8 in Portland), 77-72 (July 4 in Seattle), and an earlier Commissioner’s Cup result. This is the fourth meeting of the season between the Pacific Northwest rivals (Portland as expansion side). Seattle is seeking its first win in the series.

GAME ODDS

Portland Fire                     180.5

Seattle Storm                    2.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, August 13, 2026

WNBA Game Preview: Dallas Wings (20-14) vs. Indiana Fever (21-12)

WNBA Editor
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WNBA Game Preview: Dallas Wings (20-14) vs. Indiana Fever (21-12)

Venue and Tip-Off Time

Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana (home of the Indiana Fever and Indiana Pacers).

Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET.

The game airs on ION.

Team Forms and Standings Context

Indiana Fever sit near the top of the Eastern Conference (around 1st/4th overall with a strong 12-6 home record). They are averaging a league-high 96.2 points per game and are coming off recent wins, including a 106-92 victory over the New York Liberty (Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell combining for big production) and a road win at Chicago. Recent form in the last 10 is approximately 7-3.

Dallas Wings are competitive in the Western Conference (around 4th/7th overall, 10-8 on the road). They snapped a skid with a 94-88 home win over the Toronto Tempo on August 12, led by Paige Bueckers’ 22 points and 8 assists. Prior results included losses to Minnesota, Golden State, and Washington. Last 10 sits around 4-6. Both teams are in playoff contention.

Injury Reports

Indiana Fever: Aliyah Boston is probable (right lower leg). Caitlin Clark is probable (back). Damiris Dantas is out for the season (left knee surgery). Other depth notes have included Bree Hall in earlier reports. Confirm final status closer to tip.

Dallas Wings: Jessica Shepard is out (right ankle). Azzi Fudd is out (right knee). Aziaha James is out (lower leg). Costanza Verona is out (personal/contract suspension). Alysha Clark has been available recently after back issues. Depth is tested in the frontcourt and on the wing.

Current Rosters (key/notable players)

Indiana Fever: Guards Caitlin Clark, Kelsey Mitchell, Lexie Hull, Sophie Cunningham, Tyasha Harris, Raven Johnson, Bree Hall; Forwards/Centers Aliyah Boston, Monique Billings, Myisha Hines-Allen, Makayla Timpson, Grace VanSlooten, Damiris Dantas (out). High-powered offense centered on Clark’s playmaking and Mitchell’s scoring.

Dallas Wings: Guards Paige Bueckers, Arike Ogunbowale, Odyssey Sims, Sug Sutton, Aziaha James (out), Azzi Fudd (out); Forwards Jessica Shepard (out), Alanna Smith, Maddy Siegrist, Awak Kuier, Alysha Clark, Haley Jones; Center Li Yueru. Bueckers and Ogunbowale form a dynamic backcourt duo, with Shepard’s rebounding normally key when available.

Key Player vs. Player Matchups

Caitlin Clark / Kelsey Mitchell (Fever backcourt) vs. Paige Bueckers / Arike Ogunbowale (Wings backcourt): Elite scoring and playmaking duel. Clark’s vision and range against Bueckers’ efficiency and two-way impact; Mitchell’s scoring punch vs. Ogunbowale’s shot-making.

Aliyah Boston (Fever frontcourt) vs. Alanna Smith / Li Yueru / Awak Kuier (Wings frontcourt): Boston’s interior presence and rebounding against Dallas’ length and versatility, especially with Shepard sidelined.

Broader: Indiana’s 3-point volume and pace vs. Dallas’ offensive rebounding and transition opportunities. Defensive assignments on the stars and bench production will be decisive.

Series History

Dallas won the first meeting of the 2026 season, 107-104 on May 9 in Indianapolis (Arike Ogunbowale scored 22). The teams have a competitive recent history, with both capable of high-scoring affairs. A rematch is scheduled later in August in Dallas.

GAME ODDS

Dallas Wings                      187

Indiana Fever                    – 7

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, August 13, 2026

NFL team transactions report for Thursday, August 13, 2026

NFL Editor
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NFL team transactions report for Thursday, August 13, 2026

WAIVER SYSTEM TRANSACTIONS
WAIVER REQUESTS (All are NO RECALL)
CLEVELAND
Herring, Tyron DB Delaware (0)* PS: STND – Injured
GREEN BAY
Maryland, R.J. TE Southern Methodist (0)* PS: STND – From Reserve/Injured – Injury Settlement
KANSAS CITY
Phillips, Bryce DB San Diego State (0)* PS: STND – Partially Guaranteed Contract
NEW YORK GIANTS
James, D.J. DB Auburn (0)* PS: STND – Injured
NEW YORK JETS
Watts, Eric DE Connecticut (1)* PS: EXC – From Reserve/Injured – Injury Settlement
PITTSBURGH
Thompson, Lorenzo T Rhode Island (0)* PS: STND – From Reserve/Injured – Injury Settlement

CLAIMING DEADLINE: 4:00 p.m., N.Y. Time, Friday, 8/14/26
TERMINATIONS OF VESTED VETERANS
HOUSTON
Takitaki, Sione LB Brigham Young (6)* PS: VET – From Reserve/Injured – Injury Settlement
NEW YORK GIANTS
Long, David DB Michigan (6)* PS: VET – Injury Settlement
TAMPA BAY
Hall, Kemon DB North Texas (3)* PS: VET – From Reserve/Injured – Injury Settlement

TERMINATIONS VIA WAIVER SYSTEM
BUFFALO
Huisman, Kody DT Virginia Tech (0)*
CAROLINA
Meiga, Malick WR Coastal Carolina (0)*
GREEN BAY
Lachey, Luke TE Iowa (0)*
HOUSTON
Washington, Montrell WR Samford (2)*
MINNESOTA
Mims, Jordan RB Fresno State (1)*
SAN FRANCISCO
Bergen, Junior WR Montana (0)*
Bouwmeester, Jack P Texas (0)*
*Indicates player’s accrued seasons at end of 2025 season.

ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS
FREE AGENT SIGNINGS
CLEVELAND
McClendon, Jeremiah DB Southern Illinois
DENVER
Smith, Lecitus C Virginia Tech
KANSAS CITY
Ogbah, Emmanuel DE Oklahoma State
LOS ANGELES RAMS
Rice, Monty LB Georgia
NEW ENGLAND
Hasty, Jamycal RB Baylor
NEW YORK GIANTS
Amadi, Ugochukwu DB Oregon
Webb, Sam DB Missouri Western
PITTSBURGH
Roberts, Elandon LB Houston

RESERVE LIST ADDITIONS
DENVER
Deiter, Michael C Wisconsin – Reserve/Injured; Does Not Count Against 90 Limit – Vested Veteran
LAS VEGAS
Pickett, Justin G Duke – Reserve/Injured from Waived/Injured; Does Not Count Against 90 Limit
NEW ENGLAND
Jennings, Terrell RB Florida A&M – Reserve/Injured; Does Not Count Against 90 Limit
Montgomery, Myles RB Central Florida – Reserve/Injured from Waived/Injured; Does Not Count Against 90 Limit
PITTSBURGH
Lee, Logan DT Iowa – Reserve/Injured; Does Not Count Against 90 Limit
SAN FRANCISCO
Henry, K.J. DE Clemson – Reserve/Injured from Waived/Injured; Does Not Count Against 90 Limit

OTHER TRANSACTIONS/COMMENTS
TRYOUTS
CLEVELAND
Smith, Za’Darius LB Kentucky
DENVER
McKay, Timothy T North Carolina State
Smith, Lecitus C Virginia Tech
Zilinskas, Gus C Rutgers
NEW YORK GIANTS
Amadi, Ugochukwu DB Oregon

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