Today, the Yankees transferred the rehab assignment of INF Anthony Volpe from Double-A Somerset to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Boston Red Sox Place RHP Sonny Gray on 15-Day IL
Club Recalls LHP Tyler Samaniego from Triple-A Worcester
BOSTON, MA – The Boston Red Sox today placed right-handed pitcher Sonny Gray on the 15-Day Injured List with a right hamstring strain. To fill his spot, Boston recalled left-handed pitcher Tyler Samaniego from Triple-A Worcester.
Gray, 36, started yesterday against the Detroit Tigers and pitched 2.2 innings. The right-hander has gone 2-1 with a 4.30 ERA (11 ER/23.0 IP) in five starts this season. Selected by the Athletics in the first round (No. 18 overall) of the 2011 First-Year Player Draft, the Tennessee native owns a 3.59 ERA (774 ER/1941.0 IP) with 1,938 strikeouts across 344 career Major League games (335 starts) with the Athletics (2013-17), New York Yankees (2017-18), Cincinnati Reds (2019-21), Minnesota Twins (2022-23), St. Louis Cardinals (2024-25) and Red Sox (2026).
Samaniego, 27, made his Major League debut on April 8 against the Milwaukee Brewers, and has thrown 3.2 hitless, scoreless innings with three walks and four strikeouts over three games with Boston. The left-hander also has a 5.68 ERA (4 ER/6.1 IP) in four relief appearances with Triple-A Worcester this year. Originally selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 15th round of the 2021 First-Year Player Draft, the Alabama native was acquired by the Red Sox in a trade in December 2025 and owns a 3.89 ERA (71 ER/164.1 IP) in 131 career minor league games (two starts).
MLS Match Preview: Austin FC (1-3-4) vs. San Jose Earthquakes (7-1-0)
Venue: PayPal Park, San Jose, California (capacity ~18,000; natural grass surface with a reputation for passionate, energetic crowds and a compact pitch that favors quick transitions and attacking play). San Jose Earthquakes is the home side.
Kickoff s scheduled for 7:30 PM PT (local Pacific Time / 10:30 PM ET). Broadcast live on Apple TV (U.S.). Kickoff approximately 02:30 UTC on April 23.
Weather Updates
Mild, classic spring conditions in the Bay Area. Daytime highs around 64-70°F cooling to evening/kickoff temps in the low-to-mid 50s°F (52-57°F range). Partly cloudy with light winds (5-14 mph from NW/SE) and low precipitation risk (10-20% chance of isolated light showers, mostly dry). Humidity moderate (~50-70%). No wind, rain, or temperature extremes expected—conditions should support a fast, open, and entertaining match with minimal impact on player stamina or passing.
Current Team Records (as of April 20, 2026):
San Jose Earthquakes: 7-1-0 (21 points) – Surging near the top of the Western Conference with one of the league’s best early-season starts.
Austin FC: 1-3-4 (or 1-4-3 per some reports; ~7 points) – Struggling near the bottom of the West, searching for consistency.
Recent Team Forms (last 4-5 MLS matches):
San Jose Earthquakes: Dominant – W-W-W-L-W (most recent: 3-1 win @ Sporting Kansas City on Apr 11; 3-0 win vs. San Diego FC on Apr 4; 1-0 win @ Vancouver Whitecaps on Mar 21; 0-1 loss @ Seattle Sounders on Mar 15). Unbeaten in four straight entering this one with strong attacking output and clean sheets in recent wins.
Austin FC: Inconsistent and winless lately – D-L-D (most recent: 3-3 draw @ Toronto FC on Apr 18; 1-2 loss vs. LA Galaxy on Apr 11; 2-2 draw @ Inter Miami CF on Apr 4). Scoring in most games but leaky defensively on the road.
Injury Report (latest MLS Player Availability as of April 20):
San Jose Earthquakes:
OUT: Vítor Costa (lower body), DeJuan Jones (lower body/Achilles).
QUESTIONABLE/RETURNING: Timo Werner (lower body – missed recent games but expected back soon and “should be ready this week”).
Backline depth thinned, but attacking core largely intact.
Austin FC:
OUT: Dani Pereira (hamstring), Brandon Vazquez (knee), Owen Wolff (sports hernia).
Significant absences in midfield, attack, and depth—major blow to road performance.
Key Player Matchups:
Attack vs. Defense: San Jose’s Ousseni Bouda (multiple goals early season) and Preston Judd will test an Austin backline already stretched thin. Austin counters with Myrto Uzuni (leading scorer) and Christian Ramirez, but injuries limit creativity.
Midfield Battle: San Jose’s Niko Tsakiris and supporting cast vs. Austin’s depleted engine (minus Pereira)—expect San Jose to control tempo and transitions at home.
Wings/Fullbacks: End-to-end potential given San Jose’s home attacking trends and Austin’s recent high-event games. San Jose’s home crowd and recent form give them the edge in physical duels and set pieces.
Overall, San Jose’s firepower and depth advantage clash with Austin’s road struggles in what could be a goal-heavy Western Conference clash.
Series History (Head-to-Head):
12 previous MLS meetings: San Jose Earthquakes 3 wins, Austin FC 2 wins, 7 draws (goals roughly 25-22 in favor of San Jose slightly). Recent encounters competitive and often high-scoring (e.g., San Jose 2-1 Austin in Oct 2025; Austin 3-1 San Jose in Aug 2025). Many draws historically, but San Jose has edged recent home games. No blowouts, but BTTS common.
Betting Trends:
San Jose excellent at home with strong recent scoring (multiple 3+ goal outputs) and clean-sheet potential; one of the hottest teams in MLS early.
Austin poor on the road, winless in recent away games, and conceding regularly while struggling to score consistently.
H2H and 2026 trends favor home wins, Over 2.5 goals (~55%+ implied), and BTTS in competitive Western matchups. Public money heavily on the home favorite.
MATCH ODDS
Austin FC + 410
San Jose Earthquakes – 170
Draw + 345
Over 3 – 104 Under 3 – 116
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, April 21, 2026
MLS Match Preview: Colorado Rapids (4-4-0) vs. Los Angeles FC (5-2-1)
Venue: BMO Stadium, Los Angeles, California (capacity ~22,937; artificial turf surface known for fast play, strong home atmosphere, and occasional evening marine layer influence). Los Angeles FC is the home side.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM PT (local Pacific Time / 10:30 PM ET). Broadcast live on Apple TV (U.S.). Kickoff approximately 02:30 UTC on April 23.
Weather Updates
Classic mild April evening in Los Angeles. Daytime highs in the low-to-mid 70s°F cooling to kickoff temps around 58-65°F. Partly cloudy to mostly clear skies with virtually no chance of precipitation (0-10%). Light winds (5-10 mph from the southwest). Humidity moderate (~50-60%). Perfect conditions for attacking soccer—no wind, rain, or extreme temperatures expected to impact play or stamina.
Current Team Records (as of April 20, 2026):
Los Angeles FC: 5-2-1 (16 points) – Strong Western Conference positioning with excellent home form and attacking depth.
Colorado Rapids: 4-4-0 (12 points) – Mid-table in the West; high-scoring but inconsistent defensively.
Recent Team Forms (last 4-5 MLS matches):
Los Angeles FC: Mixed but potent at home – W-W-L-D-W (most recent examples include dominant 6-0 win vs. Orlando City on Apr 4 and high-scoring outputs; unbeaten in several early stretches but recent road blips). LAFC remains the only unbeaten team or near the top early on with clean-sheet streaks in prior wins.
Colorado Rapids: High-event form – W-L-W-L (most recent: 2-3 loss vs. Inter Miami on Apr 19; 6-2 win vs. Houston on Apr 12; 3-2 loss @ Toronto on Apr 4). Scoring freely (multiple multi-goal games) but conceding regularly, especially away.
Injury Report (latest MLS Player Availability as of April 20):
Los Angeles FC:
OUT: Amin Boudri (leg), Stephen Eustáquio (leg), Thomas Hasal (head).
Midfield and depth hits, but core attacking pieces and goalkeeper remain intact.
Colorado Rapids:
OUT: Obinna Nwobodo (leg), Reggie Cannon (ankle), Ted Ku-DiPietro (shoulder), Miguel Navarro (hamstring), Connor Ronan (leg).
Significant absences across defense, midfield, and attack—major depth concerns for the road trip.
Key Player Matchups:
Attack vs. Defense: LAFC forward Denis Bouanga (multiple goals early season) and supporting attackers will target a Rapids backline missing key defenders (Navarro, Cannon). Colorado counters with striker Rafael Navarro (5+ goals) and Paxten Aaronson’s creativity, but injuries limit their transition threat.
Midfield Battle: LAFC’s engine (minus Eustáquio) vs. Rapids’ depleted central group—expect LAFC to control possession and tempo at home.
Goalkeeping: LAFC’s Hugo Lloris (multiple clean sheets early) vs. Colorado’s busy keeper. LAFC’s home dominance should create overloads on the wings and set pieces.
Overall edge heavily to LAFC in firepower and venue familiarity.
Series History (Head-to-Head):
17 previous MLS meetings: LAFC 10 wins, Colorado Rapids 5 wins, 2 draws (LAFC leads 35-17 in goals). At BMO Stadium specifically, LAFC has been dominant (strong home record with few Rapids successes). Recent encounters often high-scoring, but LAFC has won the majority, especially on home turf. No major upsets in recent history.
Betting Trends:
LAFC excellent at home (unbeaten or dominant record vs. Colorado there) and among league leaders in goals scored/clean sheets early.
Colorado high-scoring but leaky on the road (multiple 2+ goal concessions lately); poor historical record at BMO.
Trends favor LAFC wins, overs in home games, and low BTTS when LAFC hosts weaker Western sides. Public money heavily on the home favorite.
MATCH ODDS
Colorado Rapids + 570
Los Angeles FC – 245
Draw + 425
Over 3.5 + 108 Under 3.5 – 128
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, April 21, 2026
MLS Match Preview: Inter Miami FC (4-1-3) vs. Real Salt Lake (5-1-1)
Venue: America First Field (also known as Rio Tinto Stadium), Sandy, Utah (capacity ~21,000; natural grass surface at approximately 4,500 feet elevation, known for altitude challenges for visiting teams and passionate home support). Real Salt Lake is the home side.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM MT (local Mountain Time / 9:30 PM ET). Broadcast live on Apple TV (U.S.). Kickoff approximately 01:30 UTC on April 23.
Weather Updates
Mild spring conditions in Sandy with daytime highs in the low-to-mid 60s°F cooling to evening/kickoff temps around 48-55°F. Partly cloudy to mostly clear skies with a low chance (10-30%) of isolated light showers. Winds light (5-12 mph from the south/southeast). Humidity low (~30-50%). The elevation will be the primary factor (favoring acclimated RSL in stamina), but no rain delays, extreme wind, or heat expected—conditions should support a competitive, open match.
Current Team Records (as of April 20, 2026):
Inter Miami FC: 4-1-3 (15 points) – Strong Eastern Conference positioning with attacking firepower intact despite road challenges.
Real Salt Lake: 5-1-1 (16 points) – Top of the Western Conference; excellent start with home dominance.
Recent Team Forms (last 4-5 MLS matches):
Inter Miami FC: Solid but mixed – W-D-D-W (most recent: 3-2 win @ Colorado Rapids on Apr 18; 2-2 draw vs. Red Bull New York on Apr 11; 2-2 draw vs. Austin FC on Apr 4; 3-2 win vs. New York City FC on Mar 22). High-scoring output (multiple 2+ goal games) but defensive vulnerabilities on the road. Unbeaten in four straight entering this one.
Real Salt Lake: Excellent – W-W-D-W (most recent: 4-2 win vs. San Diego FC on Apr 18; 3-1 win vs. Sporting Kansas City on Apr 4; 2-2 draw vs. San Diego FC on Mar 22; 2-1 win vs. Austin FC on Mar 14). Unbeaten in recent home games with strong attacking form and clean-sheet potential.
Injury Report (latest MLS Player Availability as of April 20):
Inter Miami FC:
OUT: Igor Jesus (leg), David Ayala (adductor), Sergio Reguilon (hamstring).
QUESTIONABLE: Tadeo Allende (hamstring).
Depth issues in midfield and defense could expose the backline on the road, especially at altitude.
Real Salt Lake:
OUT: Jesus Barea (knee), Emeka Eneli (knee), Ari Piol (Achilles).
QUESTIONABLE: Juan Jose Arias (groin), DeAndre Yedlin (hamstring), Justen Glad (knee), others including Zach Booth (knee).
Significant absences in central defense/midfield, but attacking core remains largely available.
Key Player Matchups:
Attack vs. Defense: RSL’s home attackers (including Diego Luna’s creativity and recent goal threats) will test an Inter Miami backline missing Reguilon and potentially Allende—altitude may amplify fatigue. Inter Miami counters with Lionel Messi (global draw and playmaking) and forward depth (e.g., recent multi-goal contributions from the attack).
Midfield Battle: Depleted RSL central unit vs. Inter Miami’s creative engine; transitions and set pieces will be pivotal.
Wings/Fullbacks: Expect end-to-end action given both teams’ recent high-scoring tendencies. RSL’s home crowd and elevation give them a tactical edge in physical duels.
Overall, Inter Miami’s star power clashes with RSL’s form and venue advantage in what could be a goal-heavy affair.
Series History (Head-to-Head):
Limited meetings (primarily 1-2 prior MLS encounters since 2024): Inter Miami leads with 1 win (2-0 in 2024), 0 draws, 0 RSL wins. High-scoring trend in the lone game; no blowouts but Inter Miami has historically handled RSL. This marks the first-ever visit by Messi-led Inter Miami to America First Field.
Betting Trends:
RSL unbeaten at home this season with strong recent scoring (multiple 2+ goal wins); altitude historically favors hosts.
Inter Miami unbeaten in last 4 but road games often see concessions; both sides averaging high goals lately.
H2H and 2026 trends lean toward BTTS (recent games for both) and Over 2.5 goals (~60%+ implied). Public money splits on the draw or overs in high-profile Western clashes.
MATCH ODDS
Inter Miami FC + 177
Real Salt Lake + 128
Draw + 300
Over 3.5 + 118 Under 3.5 – 138
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, April 21, 2026
MLS Match Preview: San Diego FC (3-3-2) vs. Houston Dynamo FC (3-4-0)
Venue: Shell Energy Stadium, Houston, Texas (capacity ~22,661; natural grass surface with a reputation for humid, energy-filled atmospheres and occasional wind from the Gulf). Houston Dynamo FC is the home side.
Kicjkoff is scheduled for
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM CT (local / Central Time; 8:30 PM ET). Broadcast live on Apple TV (U.S.). Kickoff approximately 00:30 UTC on April 23.
Weather Updates
Typical mild-to-warm April conditions in Houston. Daytime highs in the low-to-mid 70s°F, cooling to evening/kickoff temps around 65-72°F. Partly cloudy with a low-to-moderate chance of scattered showers or isolated thunderstorms (20-40% probability, spotty coverage). Winds 8-15 mph from the southeast. Humidity moderate (~60-70%). No major disruptions expected—conditions favor a fast-paced, open game but could make the pitch slightly slick if any rain falls.
Current Team Records (as of April 20, 2026):
San Diego FC: 3-3-2 (11-12 points) – Mid-table in the Western Conference; strong early-season promise but recent slide.
Houston Dynamo FC: 3-4-0 (9 points) – Struggling near the bottom half; winless in several recent outings but still competitive at home.
Recent Team Forms (last 5 MLS matches):
San Diego FC: Poor run – L-L-L-D-L (most recent: 2-4 loss vs. Real Salt Lake on Apr 18; 1-2 loss vs. Minnesota United on Apr 11; 0-3 loss @ San Jose on Apr 4; 2-2 draw vs. Real Salt Lake on Mar 22). Winless in five straight across competitions; scoring has dried up while conceding heavily.
Houston Dynamo FC: Inconsistent – L-L-L-W-L (most recent: 2-6 loss @ Colorado on Apr 11; 0-1 loss vs. Seattle on Apr 4; 3-4 loss @ FC Dallas on Mar 21; 3-2 win vs. Portland on Mar 14). Three straight losses entering this one, but home wins have shown attacking flashes.
Injury Report (latest MLS Player Availability as of April 20):
San Diego FC:
OUT: Alejandro Alvarado Jr. (lower body), Luca Bombino (lower body), Wilson Eisner (lower body), William Kumado (lower body), Ian Pilcher (lower body), Andres Reyes (lower body), Kieran Sargeant (lower body), Pablo Sisniega (lower back). Amahl Pellegrino (leg/Achilles – early May return).
Massive defensive depth crisis—multiple center backs and fullbacks unavailable, forcing heavy reliance on young/inexperienced players.
Houston Dynamo FC:
OUT/QUESTIONABLE: Lucas Halter (lower body/knock – late April/early May), Artur (knee/lower body – late April), Jack McGlynn (lower body/knock – early May).
Midfield and backline thinned, but core attackers remain available.
Key Player Matchups:
Attack vs. Defense: Houston forward Guilherme (5 goals, league-leading shot assists) will target a San Diego backline decimated by injuries—expect physical battles and exploitation of gaps. San Diego counters with striker Marcus Ingvartsen (5 goals) and creative winger Anders Dreyer (17 shot assists), who could punish Houston’s shaky defense on the break.
Midfield Battle: Houston’s depleted central unit (Artur questionable) vs. San Diego’s Bryce Duke-led group—transitions will be critical.
Goalkeeping: Houston’s Jonathan Bond (19 saves recently) vs. San Diego’s Duran Ferree (27 saves). Both keepers have been busy due to leaky defenses.
Overall, Houston’s home attacking edge clashes with San Diego’s counter-threat, but SD’s injury issues tilt the tactical battle toward the hosts.
Series History (Head-to-Head):
Only 2 prior MLS meetings (both in 2025): 1 win each, no draws. High-scoring affairs (combined 13 goals across matches, e.g., 2-4 and 3-4 results). No blowouts, but every game has featured multiple goals and BTTS. Early rivalry shows end-to-end, unpredictable play.
Betting Trends:
Houston strong home favorites in recent seasons but current poor form (multiple losses) tempers expectations; still unbeaten in some early home games.
San Diego winless in last 5, with road games often high-scoring and leaky.
H2H and recent trends scream Over 2.5 goals and BTTS (100% in prior meetings; both teams averaging 2+ goals conceded lately).
MATCH ODDS
San Diego FC + 252
Houston Dynamo FC – 105
Draw + 295
Over 3 – 105 Under 3 -115
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, April 21, 2026
MLS Match Preview: Minnesota United FC (4-2-2) vs. FC Dallas (3-1-4)
Venue: Toyota Stadium, Frisco, Texas (capacity ~20,500; natural grass surface, known for strong home atmosphere and occasional wind influence in the spring). FC Dallas is the home side.
Kickoff is scheduled for
8:30 PM CT (local time / Central Time Zone).
Broadcast on Apple TV (U.S.). Kickoff is approximately 1:30 AM UTC on April 23.
Weather Updates:
Mild spring conditions expected in Frisco. Daytime highs near 70-75°F, cooling to lows around 55-65°F by kickoff and into the evening. Winds 8-12 mph from the south/southeast, partly cloudy to mostly clear skies with only a 20-25% chance of light showers or precipitation. Humidity moderate (~50-60%). Ideal for open, attacking soccer with minimal weather impact on play. No extreme heat, wind, or rain delays anticipated.
Current Team Records (as of April 20, 2026):
Minnesota United FC: 4-2-2 (14 points) – Solid mid-table positioning in the Western Conference with strong recent momentum.
FC Dallas: 3-1-4 (10-13 points range across sources; home unbeaten streak noted). Dallas sits lower but benefits from home form.
Recent Team Forms (last 3-5 MLS matches):
Minnesota United FC: Excellent form – W-W-W (most recent: 2-0 vs. Portland Timbers on Apr 18; 2-1 win @ San Diego on Apr 11; 2-1 win @ LA Galaxy on Apr 4). The Loons are scoring efficiently (multiple multi-goal games) and showing defensive resilience on the road. They’ve won 3 straight league matches entering this one.
FC Dallas: Mixed but resilient – D-D-W (most recent: 2-2 draw vs. LA Galaxy on Apr 18; 1-1 draw vs. St. Louis on Apr 11; 4-0 win @ D.C. United on Apr 4). Strong attacking output in wins but recent home games have seen dropped points via draws. Unbeaten in several recent home outings.
Injury Report (latest MLS Player Availability):
Minnesota United FC:
OUT: Michael Boxall (captain, CB – lower body/adductor), Peter Stroud (lower body/quad), Julian Gressel (long-term – toe surgery, out until mid-summer).
QUESTIONABLE/RETURNING: James Rodríguez (recent dehydration/illness from international duty; back in supervised training and expected to feature or be available).
Key absences in central defense and midfield depth could expose the backline.
FC Dallas:
OUT: Anderson Julio (lower leg), Bernard Kamungo (lower leg), Ramiro (lower leg). Season-ending for at least one long-term case (e.g., Kaka Scabin noted earlier).
No major new suspensions or questionables reported. Depth hit in attack and midfield, but core attacking pieces remain available.
Key Player Matchups:
Attack vs. Defense: FC Dallas forward Petar Musa (recent multi-goal form, including vs. LA Galaxy) will test a Minnesota backline missing captain Boxall. Musa’s physicality and finishing could exploit gaps. Minnesota counters with forward K. Yeboah (multiple recent goals) and attacking midfielder T. Chancalay (creative assists and scoring threat).
Midfield Battle: Minnesota’s midfield (potentially bolstered by a returning Rodríguez) vs. Dallas’ central unit. Without Gressel and Stroud, Minnesota may lean on depth players for transitions.
Wings/Fullbacks: Expect end-to-end action given both teams’ recent high-scoring tendencies and open styles. Dallas home crowd could pressure Minnesota’s away fullbacks.
Overall edge to Dallas in attacking firepower, but Minnesota’s current scoring streak makes this dangerous.
Series History (Head-to-Head):
21 previous meetings since 2017: FC Dallas 7 wins, Minnesota United 8 wins, 6 draws (goals roughly 29-27 in favor of Dallas slightly). At Toyota Stadium specifically (last 11 home games for Dallas vs. Minnesota): Dallas 5W-3D-3L – slight historical home advantage, but games are often competitive and high-scoring. Recent encounters have featured draws and Minnesota road resilience. No blowouts in recent history.
Betting Trends:
Dallas unbeaten in recent home games (multiple draws + wins) and strong at Toyota Stadium.
Minnesota on a 3-game MLS winning streak with multi-goal outputs; however, road games often see them concede.
Head-to-head and recent form lean toward BTTS (both teams scoring in 50-60% of recent matchups) and games going Over 2.5 goals (52% implied probability).
Home favorites in MLS this season have performed solidly, but Minnesota’s current form makes them dangerous underdogs. Public money often splits on the draw or over.
MATCH ODDS
Minnesota United FC + 230
FC Dallas + 112
Draw + 263
Over 3 + 118 Under 3 – 138
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, April 21, 2026
MLB Game Preview: Los Angeles Dodgers (15-6) vs. San Francisco Giants (9-13)
First pitch is scheduled for 9:45 PM ET (6:45 PM PT)
Coverage: MLB.TV, SportsNet LA (LAD) / NBC Sports Bay Area (SF); radio on 570 AM / 102.7 FM (LAD) and KNBR 680 AM / 95.7 FM (SF)
Venue & Game Context
The red-hot Los Angeles Dodgers open a three-game NL West rivalry series against the struggling San Francisco Giants at pitcher-friendly Oracle Park. The Dodgers lead the division and enter riding strong momentum after sweeping the Rockies over the weekend, while the Giants sit near the bottom and will look to slow down LA’s offense in the season’s first matchup between the clubs. Oracle Park’s marine layer and spacious outfield typically suppress scoring, especially in cool evening conditions.
Weather Update
Game-time conditions forecast mostly cloudy skies with temperatures in the mid-to-upper 50s°F (around 56-60°F), humidity near 80%, a 35% chance of light showers (brief and non-disruptive), and winds around 11 mph (light, variable). The cool air and possible drizzle should suppress fly-ball distance and home-run potential, creating favorable conditions for pitchers with no significant rain delays anticipated.
Probable Pitchers & Player Matchups
Los Angeles Dodgers: RHP Yoshinobu Yamamoto (2-1, 2.10 ERA, 0.82 WHIP)
Yamamoto has been dominant early, allowing just two runs or fewer in each of his four starts while posting elite command (21 K, 3 BB in 25.2 IP). He’ll face a Giants lineup that has been middle-of-the-pack offensively but capable of manufacturing runs at home. LA’s star-studded offense—led by Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman (paternity leave possible but expected back soon), and a deep lineup—will look to exploit any early-count mistakes.
San Francisco Giants: RHP Landen Roupp (3-1, 2.38 ERA, 0.97 WHIP)
Roupp has been one of the Giants’ brightest spots with 24 strikeouts in 22.2 innings and strong home numbers. He’ll oppose a Dodgers offense that ranks among the league leaders in runs scored. Yamamoto’s dominance gives LA the clear mound edge, but Roupp’s command and the park’s dimensions could keep the game low-scoring if the Giants’ bullpen holds.
Key Matchups to Watch:
Dodgers power and contact (Ohtani, Betts if active) vs. Roupp’s low-ERA command.
Giants lineup vs. Yamamoto’s elite strikeout-to-walk ratio.
Bullpen usage: Both clubs are thinned by injuries, making late-inning management critical in a potential pitcher’s duel.
Injury Report
Los Angeles Dodgers (significant absences):
SS Mookie Betts (right oblique strain) – 10-day IL, est. return ~Apr 27.
RP Edwin Díaz (right elbow loose bodies) – 15-day IL (placed Apr 20; surgery scheduled).
SP Landon Knack (chest) – 15-day IL, est. return ~Apr 21.
RP Brock Stewart (right shoulder surgery recovery) – 15-day IL.
Additional: Blake Snell (left shoulder fatigue, 15-day IL), Ben Casparius (shoulder inflammation).
Dodgers are managing rotation and bullpen depth but remain elite.
San Francisco Giants (notable absences):
OF Harrison Bader (strained hamstring) – 10-day IL, est. return ~Apr 22.
OF Jared Oliva (left hand hamate surgery) – 10-day IL, est. return ~Apr 25.
RP Sam Hentges (shoulder) – 15-day IL.
Additional: RP José Buttó (arm surgery/blood clot).
Giants are especially thin in the outfield and bullpen.
Team Records & Recent Form
Dodgers (16-6): 1st in NL West. 7-3 on the road and winners of 10 of their last 12 overall. Elite pitching and timely offense have carried them despite key injuries.
Giants (9-13): 4th in NL West. 6-7 at home and 3-6 in their last 9. Inconsistent offense and bullpen woes have plagued recent play.
Series History
The Dodgers hold a commanding recent edge (18-8 over the last three seasons). LA swept or dominated most 2025 meetings and enters with superior form. Oracle Park has occasionally favored the Giants in low-scoring affairs, but current pitching disparity heavily tilts toward the visitors in this first 2026 series.
Betting Trends
Dodgers are 4-9 SU in their last 13 road favorites but dominate as heavy favorites overall.
The total has gone UNDER in several recent low-scoring Oracle Park games with strong righties.
Giants are 3-2 SU in their last 5 but 2-3 ATS.
Game Odds
Los Angeles Dodgers – 186
San Francisco Giants 7
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, April 20, 2026
MLB Game Preview: Chicago White Sox (8-14) vs. Arizona Diamondbacks (13-9)
First pitch is scheduled for 9:40 PM ET (6:40 PM MST)
Coverage: MLB.TV, NBC Sports Chicago / DBACKS.TV; radio on WMVP 1000 AM (CWS) and 98.7 FM / 620 AM (ARI)
Venue & Game Context
The Chicago White Sox visit the Arizona Diamondbacks in the opener of a three-game interleague series at Chase Field (roof confirmed open). Arizona sits in third in the NL West while Chicago remains in the AL Central cellar. The Diamondbacks took the season series lead in recent matchups, but this marks the clubs’ first 2026 meeting. Chase Field’s retractable-roof setup and high-elevation desert air typically create a hitter-friendly environment when open, especially with warm temperatures.
Weather Update
Game-time conditions forecast sunny and hot with temperatures around 92°F (dropping into the mid-80s after sunset), humidity under 15%, 0% chance of precipitation, and winds around 11 mph (light west/southwest). The open roof and outbound breeze will boost fly-ball distance and home-run potential in this already lively park, creating classic Chase Field scoring conditions with no delays expected.
Probable Pitchers & Player Matchups
Chicago White Sox: RHP Sean Burke (0-2, 4.43 ERA, 1.28 WHIP)
Burke has been serviceable but vulnerable in four starts (20.1 IP, 20 H, 17 K, 6 BB, 2 HR), struggling especially against left-handed hitters (.347 wOBA allowed). He’ll face an Arizona lineup that has been productive at home and can capitalize on early-count mistakes. Chicago’s offense—led by emerging bats like Munetaka Murakami and Colson Montgomery—will need to generate traffic against Kelly’s command.
Arizona Diamondbacks: RHP Merrill Kelly (1-0, 3.38 ERA, 1.69 WHIP)
Kelly made his season debut last week (5.1 IP, 5 H, 3 K, 4 BB, 1 HR) and looked sharp coming off injury concerns. He’ll oppose a White Sox lineup that ranks near the bottom in runs scored and has been inconsistent on the road. Arizona’s top-of-the-order speed and power (including recent contributors like Ketel Marte and Eugenio Suárez) should test Burke’s command in a favorable hitting environment. Kelly’s home experience gives the Diamondbacks a clear mound edge.
Key Matchups to Watch:
White Sox contact/power vs. Kelly’s veteran command in the heat.
Diamondbacks lineup vs. Burke’s elevated ERA and lefty vulnerabilities.
Bullpen usage: Both clubs are thinned by injuries, making late-inning management critical in a potential high-scoring affair.
Injury Report
Chicago White Sox (multiple absences):
RP Chris Murphy (left elbow impingement) – 15-day IL, est. return ~Apr 23.
LF Austin Hays (right hamstring strain) – 10-day IL, est. return ~Apr 24.
SP Jonathan Cannon (right hip inflammation) – 15-day IL, est. return ~Apr 28.
C Kyle Teel – 10-day IL, est. return ~May 1.
Additional longer-term: RP Prelander Berroa (60-day IL).
White Sox are especially thin in the rotation, bullpen, and outfield.
Arizona Diamondbacks (notable absences):
C Gabriel Moreno (left oblique strain) – 10-day IL, est. return ~Apr 21 (day-to-day).
1B/INF Tyler Locklear (elbow) – 10-day IL.
1B/DH Carlos Santana (groin) – 10-day IL.
Additional: 1B/DH Pavin Smith (left elbow inflammation, 60-day IL).
Diamondbacks are managing without key catcher and first-base depth but remain relatively healthy overall.
Team Records & Recent Form
White Sox (8-14): 4th in AL Central. 5-8 on the road and 2-3 in their last five. Offense has been middle-to-low in production; pitching inconsistencies and injuries have kept them struggling.
Diamondbacks (13-9): 3rd in NL West. Strong at home (7-3) and 4-1 in their last five. Timely hitting and solid bullpen work have carried them despite some recent losses.
Series History
Arizona has dominated recent interleague play, with Chicago just 3-14 SU in its last 17 meetings vs. the Diamondbacks. The clubs split or traded advantages in 2025, but Arizona has owned early-season home matchups. This is the first 2026 series between them.
Betting Trends
Key trends:
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chicago’s last 5 road games.
Diamondbacks are 4-1 SU in their last 5 and strong as home favorites.
White Sox are 5-8 SU on the road and have struggled vs. Arizona historically.
Game Odds
Chicago White Sox 9
Arizona Diamondbacks – 156
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, April 20, 2026
MLB Game Preview: Athletics (12-11) vs. Seattle Mariners (10-14)
First pitch is scheduled for 9:40 PM ET
Coverage: MLB.TV, Mariners.TV / NBC Sports California; radio on 710 ESPN Seattle / 97.3 The Fan (SEA) and 95.7 The Game (ATH)
Venue & Game Context
The Athletics visit the Seattle Mariners in the middle game of a three-game AL West series at T-Mobile Park. Seattle hosts after dropping Monday’s series opener 6-4 (Carlos Cortes, Nick Kurtz, and Shea Langeliers each homered for Oakland). The Athletics sit atop the AL West while the Mariners occupy the division basement. T-Mobile Park’s pitcher-friendly dimensions and marine-layer influence typically suppress offense, especially with the roof likely open in favorable early-season conditions.
Weather Update
Game-time forecast calls for partly cloudy skies with temperatures in the upper 50s°F (around 57-61°F), humidity near 78%, a 27-62% chance of light showers (brief and non-disruptive), and winds around 7 mph. The cool evening air and light breeze should slightly suppress fly-ball distance with no significant rain delays expected; the roof may remain open for ideal baseball conditions.
Probable Pitchers & Player Matchups
Athletics: LHP Jacob Lopez (1-1, 6.38 ERA, 1.96 WHIP)
Lopez has been hittable in four starts (18.1 IP, 19 H, 16 K, 17 BB, 3 HR), posting a high walk rate and allowing hard contact. He’ll face a Mariners lineup searching for offense after Monday’s loss. Oakland’s potent top-of-the-order (including recent homer threats like Cortes and Langeliers) will look to exploit Lopez’s command issues in a park that rewards contact.
Mariners: RHP Luis Castillo (0-1, 5.40 ERA, 1.80 WHIP)
Castillo has allowed elevated contact and runs in limited early work (18.1 IP, 26 H, 17 K, 7 BB, 1 HR) but retains elite strikeout stuff when locked in. He’ll oppose an Athletics offense that ranks middle-of-the-pack but has shown recent power. Seattle’s top hitters must manufacture traffic against Lopez’s elevated ERA, while Castillo’s home dominance gives the Mariners a clear mound edge.
Key Matchups to Watch:
Athletics power/contact vs. Castillo’s strikeout ability.
Mariners lineup vs. Lopez’s high walk rate and recent struggles.
Bullpen usage: Both clubs are thinned by injuries, making late-inning management pivotal.
Injury Report
Athletics (notable absences):
OF/DH Brent Rooker (strained oblique) – 10-day IL, est. return ~Apr 28.
SP Gunnar Hoglund (sprained right knee) – 60-day IL, est. return late May.
Athletics are managing without key offensive depth but have stayed competitive.
Mariners (pitching and position depth):
INF/OF Miles Mastrobuoni (strained calf) – 10-day IL, est. return ~May 24.
INF Brendan Donovan (left groin/hip strain) – 10-day IL (retro to Apr 18), est. return ~Apr 28.
INF/OF Patrick Wisdom (strained oblique) – 10-day IL, est. return ~Apr 25.
OF Victor Robles (strained pectoral) – 10-day IL.
SP Bryce Miller (oblique) – 15-day IL, est. return ~May 22.
Mariners are especially thin in the infield, outfield, and rotation depth.
Team Records & Recent Form
Athletics (12-11): 1st in AL West. 7-6 on the road and winners of Monday’s series opener (6-4). Strong recent form with timely power and pitching keeping them atop the division despite injuries.
Mariners (10-14): 4th in AL West. 9-6 at home but struggling overall (1-8 SU in recent stretch entering the series). Offense has been inconsistent; pitching flashes have been undermined by bullpen and injury issues.
Series History
The clubs are in the first of multiple 2026 AL West series. Athletics took Monday’s opener 6-4 to lead the set 1-0. Historically, Seattle has held a slight edge in recent seasons, but Oakland has performed well on the road in early 2026 matchups. T-Mobile Park has favored the home team in low-scoring affairs lately.
Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Athletics’ last 6 games.
Mariners are 2-3 SU in their last 5 and 1-8 in recent form.
Athletics are 9-4 SU in their last 13 games.
Game Odds
Athletics 7.5
Seattle Mariners – 168
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, April 20, 2026
