Posts in category: Pro Merch

Our recent Starting Pitcher Power Rankings vote saw a compelling showdown among three remarkable left-handed pitchers, each presenting a strong case for the top spot but arriving there through vastly different paths.

The MLB.com panel was tasked with evaluating the merits of Shota Imanaga of the Cubs, whose seamless transition from Japan’s NPB to Major League Baseball has been nothing short of remarkable; Tarik Skubal of the Tigers, whose dominant pitch arsenal is propelling him to newfound success at age 27 following a promising return from injury last year; and Ranger Suárez of the Phillies, a crafty veteran with a soft-touch approach who is currently riding an impressive hot streak.

Arriving at a decision was no easy feat, but in the end, one pitcher emerged as the undeniable No. 1. Here’s a breakdown of the results from our latest Starting Pitcher Power Rankings, which also features some notable newcomers, including a resurgent veteran and a rising young star.

1. Shota Imanaga, Cubs (Previous ranking: 4) Imanaga’s dominance on the mound has progressed from skepticism to wholehearted acceptance among our panelists. The 30-year-old southpaw has been nothing short of sensational, posting a flawless 5-0 record with a minuscule 0.84 ERA across nine starts. His deceptive four-seamer/splitter combination has baffled hitters, earning him a well-deserved ascent to the top spot in our rankings.
2. Tarik Skubal, Tigers (2) Skubal may not have previously garnered Cy Young Award consideration, but his performance in 2024 has certainly put him in the conversation. Armed with a blazing four-seamer and sinker, complemented by a changeup and slider that induce plenty of swings and misses, Skubal boasts an MLB-leading 1.94 FIP and 0.78 WHIP, making him a formidable force on the mound.
3. Ranger Suárez, Phillies (5) Suárez’s recent outings have been nothing short of extraordinary, drawing comparisons to legendary pitchers of yesteryears. Despite his modest fastball velocity, the 28-year-old has dazzled with impeccable control and a diverse repertoire of pitches. His stellar start to the season (9-0, 1.36 ERA) has propelled him into the spotlight and earned him a well-deserved spot among the top-ranked pitchers.

1. Zack Wheeler, Phillies (1) Wheeler may have led our previous rankings, but a slight dip in performance, coupled with the exceptional success of those above him, has resulted in a drop in his ranking. Nonetheless, the durable right-hander remains a formidable presence on the mound and a strong contender for both the Cy Young Award and a World Series title alongside his Phillies teammates.
2. Tyler Glasnow, Dodgers (3) Glasnow’s dominance stems from his overpowering fastball and elite breaking pitches, which have left hitters struggling to make contact. Leading the league with 81 strikeouts, Glasnow’s repertoire has been virtually unhittable, making him a valuable asset for the Dodgers as they pursue postseason success.
3. Chris Sale, Braves (Not ranked) Sale’s resurgence in 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable, reminiscent of his dominant form from years past. Enjoying renewed health and vitality, the seven-time All-Star has been virtually untouchable on the mound, posting an impressive 50-to-3 strikeout-to-walk ratio over his last six outings.
4. Seth Lugo, Royals (Not ranked) Lugo’s transition from reliever to starter has been seamless, with the Royals reaping the benefits of his solid performances. With a significantly improved strikeout rate, Lugo has emerged as a reliable option in the rotation, solidifying his place among the top-ranked pitchers in the league.

1. Paul Skenes, Pirates (Not ranked) Skenes’ MLB debut showcased his immense potential, signaling the arrival of a pitching prospect with the talent to make a significant impact. A dominant outing against the Cubs underscored his capabilities, setting the stage for what promises to be a promising career ahead.
2. Corbin Burnes, Orioles (7) Despite a recent stretch of tough luck, Burnes remains a force to be reckoned with on the mound. His consistent quality starts and impressive strikeout numbers highlight his effectiveness, making him a key contributor to the Orioles’ success this season.
3. Tanner Houck, Red Sox (Not ranked) Houck’s ability to induce ground balls with his diverse pitch arsenal has made him a standout performer for the Red Sox. With a minuscule home run rate and opponents slugging just .254 against him, Houck has emerged as a reliable starter and a valuable asset for Boston.

Honorable mentions: Javier Assad (Cubs), Yu Darvish (Padres), Kutter Crawford (Red Sox), Yoshinobu Yamamoto (Dodgers), Jared Jones (Pirates), Reynaldo López (Braves), Dylan Cease (Padres), Luis Gil (Yankees), Luis Castillo (Mariners), George Kirby (Mariners), Zac Gallen (D-backs), Logan Webb (Giants)

The much-anticipated 2024 NFL schedule has finally been released, and fans around the globe are buzzing with excitement. As always, the release of the schedule brings with it a mix of anticipation, speculation, and excitement, as teams and fans alike begin to map out their season ahead. From marquee matchups to revenge games, the schedule is packed with intriguing storylines that promise to make the upcoming NFL season one to remember.

As the NFL gears up for another exciting season, the release of the schedule has only added to the anticipation. With a mix of winners, losers, and revenge games, the stage is set for a thrilling year of football.

Ranking the Top Revenge Games on the 2024 NFL Schedule

At CBS Sports, we relish the opportunity to rank things, and what better way to stir up excitement than by ranking the most enticing revenge games on the 2024 NFL schedule? Our resident revenge expert, Will Brinson, has meticulously curated the top three games that promise to deliver a potent mix of drama and redemption:

1. Chiefs at 49ers (Week 7): Brinson emphasizes that there’s no revenge quite like “Super Bowl Revenge,” and the 49ers will seize their chance at redemption against the Chiefs in what’s sure to be a showdown of epic proportions.
2. Steelers at Broncos (Week 2): The matchup between the Steelers and Broncos takes center stage as Russell Wilson faces off against his former team. Wilson’s departure from the Broncos adds an extra layer of intensity to this game, making it a must-watch for fans.
3. Ravens at Chargers (Week 12): Dubbed the “Harbaugh Bowl,” this matchup pits brothers Jim and John Harbaugh against each other. While some may argue it’s not revenge in the traditional sense, the competitive history between the brothers adds a captivating narrative to this game.

NFL Schedule Breakdown: One Good Thing and One Bad Thing for Each Team

The NFL schedule is a delicate balancing act, and while the league strives to please everyone, it’s inevitable that some teams will face challenges. In our analysis, we’ve identified one positive and one negative aspect of the schedule for three teams:

Steelers

Good: The Steelers kick off the season with three consecutive games against teams that finished below .500 last year, offering them an opportunity to gain momentum early on.

Bad: However, the latter part of the season presents a grueling stretch, with eight consecutive games against teams that ended last season with a winning record, including three games in just 10 days.

Chargers

Good: The Chargers enjoy a lengthy stretch without away games, with the Raiders remaining in Las Vegas for 34 days without a road trip, providing stability and continuity for the team.

Bad: Conversely, starting in Week 11, the Chargers face a challenging four-week span against formidable opponents, including the Bengals, Ravens, and Chiefs, making for a tough stretch in the season.

Lions

Good: With only one outdoor game scheduled from Week 1 to Week 15, the Lions can avoid weather-related disruptions to their game plan, providing consistency for their offense.

Bad: However, coming out of their Week 5 bye, the Lions encounter a challenging stretch of four out of five games on the road, facing playoff-caliber teams like the Cowboys, Packers, and Texans, posing a significant hurdle for the team.

Winners and Losers from the Schedule Release

As with any major event, the NFL schedule release generates winners and losers. Cody Benjamin has meticulously combed through all 272 games to identify the standout performers and those facing uphill battles:

Winners

• Jets fans bask in the limelight with six prime-time games in the first 11 weeks, showcasing the team’s potential and earning them the spotlight.
• Caleb Williams and the Bears enjoy a favorable early schedule, facing rebuilding squads that offer an opportunity to gain momentum and assert themselves in the league.
• Eagles benefit from a late-season advantage with four of their final five games at home, providing a favorable environment to finish strong.

Losers

• Ravens face a daunting start to the season, with matchups against formidable opponents like the Bengals, Chiefs, Bills, and Cowboys in the first five weeks, coupled with a late bye week in December.
• Jaguars confront a challenging opening stretch against tough opponents, setting a demanding tone for the season and testing the team’s mettle from the outset.
• Weekday breaks pose a logistical challenge for teams like the Chiefs, who are slated to play on nearly every day of the week, including Wednesday Christmas games, presenting scheduling complexities.

Netflix Secures NFL Christmas Games

Netflix emerges as a major victor in the NFL schedule release, securing exclusive rights to two Christmas games and signing a lucrative three-year deal with the league. Notable highlights include:

• Netflix wins bid for two Christmas games, Chiefs-Steelers and Ravens-Texans, cementing its position as a premier streaming platform for sports content.
• The streaming giant strikes a three-year agreement with the NFL, ensuring continued access to Christmas games through 2026 and reinforcing its commitment to delivering top-tier sports entertainment.
• In addition to Christmas games, Netflix announces a compelling documentary series on Jerry Jones, providing an in-depth exploration of the iconic Cowboys owner’s early years and legacy in the NFL.

Extra Points: Giants Unveil Wild Throwback Uniforms

The NFL offseason is abuzz with excitement as teams unveil new uniforms, announcements, and player updates:

• Giants introduce striking alternate uniforms to commemorate their 100th anniversary, blending elements from different eras for a unique and nostalgic aesthetic.
• Giants selected as the focus of a new offseason edition of “Hard Knocks,” offering fans an inside look at team operations during free agency and the NFL Draft.
• Steelers’ Cam Heyward opts to sit out OTAs in pursuit of a contract extension, highlighting the ongoing negotiations between players and teams.
• NFL players, including JJ Watt, reveal insights into their schedule preferences, shedding light on the strategic considerations that shape team preparations for the upcoming season.

With the NFL offseason in full swing, there’s no shortage of excitement and anticipation as teams gear up for another thrilling year of football.

Tune in to CBS Sports HQ for in-depth analysis and coverage of all the action throughout the season.

With the second round of the NHL playoffs well underway, there has been a significant shift in the landscape of Stanley Cup odds, with a clear consensus favorite emerging from the pack. As the action heats up on the ice, let’s take a closer look at the top contenders vying for hockey’s ultimate prize in 2024.

The New York Rangers have surged to the forefront of the Stanley Cup odds, commanding attention with their dominant performance against the Carolina Hurricanes. After securing three consecutive victories in the series, the Rangers now find themselves in the driver’s seat, poised to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. With a potent combination of physicality and offensive prowess, New York has showcased its ability to dismantle even the stoutest defenses and goaltending units.

In contrast, the Edmonton Oilers, who were early favorites heading into the second round, have faced some setbacks after dropping their series opener to the Vancouver Canucks. While the Oilers’ high-powered offense has continued to impress, questions linger about their goaltending, particularly after allowing a late-game rally in their opening matchup against Vancouver. Moving forward, goaltender Stuart Skinner will need to step up to ensure Edmonton’s continued success in the postseason.

Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers have surged back into contention after a strong finish to the regular season and a decisive victory over the Boston Bruins in the opening round. With momentum on their side, the Panthers are poised to reclaim their status as co-favorites, provided they can secure crucial victories on the road against Boston.

As the playoff picture continues to unfold, the race for the Stanley Cup remains wide open, with each team vying for their chance at hockey glory. With the Rangers leading the charge and formidable challengers hot on their heels, the stage is set for an exhilarating conclusion to the 2024 NHL season.

Round 1 matchups

Round 2 matchups

Stanley Cup odds over time

The Hurricanes, Avalanche, Panthers, and Stars have been the most significant movers over the last couple of weeks. The Rangers are also surging, while the Bruins have rebounded from a recent slide. 

Stanley Cup 2023-24 winning conference odds

Odds as of May 6

Stanley Cup 2023-24 winning division odds

Odds as of May 6

Stanley Cup matchup odds

Odds via FanDuel as of May 6

Stanley Cup exact result odds

Odds via FanDuel as of May 6

Stanley Cup champion: Canadian teams vs. field odds

Odds via FanDuel as of May 6

Eastern Conference champion

Odds via DraftKings on May 7

Western Conference champion

Odds via DraftKings on May 7

Stanley Cup opening odds

Stanley Cup opening odds as of June 13, 2023.

Stanley Cups won by division

Here’s a look at the number of Stanley Cups won by division since the NHL adopted the four-division format for the 2013-14 season.

Past Stanley Cup winners

NHL teams with the most Stanley Cups

How to read Stanley Cup odds

Stanley Cup odds reflect the probability of each NHL team winning the championship and are typically presented in American odds format (+XXX). Lower odds signify favoritism, while higher odds indicate underdog status.

A team with +750 odds to win the Stanley Cup is given an 11.76% implied probability of doing so with a $10 bet returning a $75 profit with a victory. A team with +1500 odds would have higher or longer odds, and a lower implied probability of 6.25%, but a win on a $10 bet would return a profit of $150.

Bettors should consider team performance, roster strength, injuries, and historical trends when assessing odds. By comparing odds across sportsbooks, individuals can make informed betting decisions during the NHL playoffs.

NHL draft order

Draft order as of May 8

The first 16 picks are set following the Draft Lottery. The remaining picks will be settled as the playoffs progress.

Stanley Cup Final FAQs

Who is the Stanley Cup Final favorite?

The New York Rangers are the Stanley Cup favorites across most of our best live betting sites, trading as short as +330, representing an implied win probability of 23.26%.

When did the NHL playoffs start? 

The NHL playoffs began on Saturday, April 20, 2024. 

When will the Stanley Cup Final start?

Last year, Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final took place on Saturday, June 3. The NHL will announce the beginning of the 2024 final closer to next spring. 

Who won the Stanley Cup last year?

The Vegas Golden Knights won the 2022-23 Stanley Cup Final, defeating the Florida Panthers in five games.

NHL betting odds pages

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Tonight’s Game 6 between the Philadelphia 76ers and the New York Knicks is shaping up to be a showdown filled with intensity and high stakes. Both teams are eager to gain the upper hand and secure a crucial victory in their quest for playoff glory.

However, beyond the action on the court, there’s an intriguing development off the hardwood. In a bold move, the ownership of the Sixers has teamed up with Fanatics to purchase 2,000 tickets for Game 6, with the intention of keeping Knicks fans out of Wells Fargo Center. This decision comes after Knicks fans made their presence known during Sunday’s Game 4 win, with their boisterous cheering echoing throughout the arena.

The atmosphere at Wells Fargo Center is expected to be electric as Sixers fans rally behind their team, hoping to create a home-court advantage that will propel them to victory. With the stakes higher than ever, every possession and every shot will be crucial as both teams battle for supremacy.

As tip-off approaches, anticipation is mounting, and fans on both sides are eagerly awaiting the outcome of what promises to be an unforgettable Game 6.

Again, the Philadelphia 76ers’ ownership, as reported by Crossing Broad, took a commendable initiative ahead of Thursday’s Game 6. Majority owners Josh Harris, David Blitzer, and David Adelman, along with former minority owner Michael Rubin, who heads Fanatics, joined forces to secure 2,000 tickets for the upcoming game. However, instead of using these tickets to limit the presence of opposing fans, as initially speculated, the owners have chosen a more altruistic path.

These tickets will not be distributed to prevent rival supporters from attending the game; rather, they will be allocated to a group of unsung heroes: first responders, healthcare professionals, community organizations, and various other local groups. This generous gesture aims to honor and express gratitude to those individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the community, especially during challenging times.

In a time when unity and support are paramount, the Sixers’ ownership has demonstrated their commitment to uplifting the community and recognizing the invaluable efforts of those who tirelessly serve and support others. By providing these tickets to deserving individuals and groups, they are not only enriching the fan experience but also fostering a sense of camaraderie and appreciation within the community.

As the excitement builds for Game 6, it’s heartening to see the Sixers’ ownership utilizing their platform to make a positive impact and give back to the community. Their actions serve as a reminder of the power of sports to unite and inspire, and they exemplify the true spirit of generosity and compassion.

With a trip to the next round of the playoffs on the line, expect nothing less than a thrilling and fiercely contested battle between two of the NBA’s most storied franchises.

As the baseball season enters its dog days, the race for playoff positioning intensifies, with every game taking on added significance and every win or loss carrying playoff implications. From divisional rivalries to wildcard battles, the drama of baseball reaches new heights as teams jockey for position in the standings and vie for a coveted spot in the postseason.

For players and teams, the grind of the long season takes its toll, as injuries mount and fatigue sets in. Yet, despite the challenges, the competitive spirit remains undiminished, as players dig deep and find a way to elevate their game when it matters most.

For fans, the stretch run of the baseball season is a time of excitement and anticipation, as they cheer on their favorite teams and players in pursuit of playoff glory. Whether watching from the stands or following along from home, fans are united in their love for the game and their unwavering support for their team.

As the postseason looms large on the horizon, every game becomes a must-win affair, with playoff hopes hanging in the balance. From clutch hits to game-saving plays, the drama of baseball is on full display as teams battle tooth and nail for a chance to etch their names into baseball lore.

With the playoffs just around the corner, the excitement and tension of the baseball season are reaching a fever pitch, as teams push themselves to the limit in pursuit of championship glory. With every pitch, swing, and catch, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to another unforgettable season of America’s pastime.

As winter fades and spring emerges, the crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd herald the arrival of a new baseball season, bringing with it a renewed sense of hope and anticipation for fans across the country. From the first pitch to the final out, baseball captivates audiences with its timeless appeal and rich tradition, offering a welcome respite from the rigors of everyday life.

For players and teams, the start of a new season represents a fresh start and a chance to write a new chapter in the annals of baseball history. From perennial contenders to upstart underdogs, every team begins the season with dreams of championship glory and the belief that anything is possible on the diamond.

As the season unfolds, players showcase their skills and talent on the field, captivating audiences with their athleticism and prowess. From towering home runs to diving catches, every game is a showcase of the best that the sport has to offer, with moments of brilliance and excitement around every corner.

For fans, the start of the baseball season is a time of optimism and anticipation, as they cheer on their favorite teams and players in pursuit of victory. Whether watching from the stands or following along from home, fans are united in their love for the game and their unwavering support for their team.

As the season progresses and the race for the playoffs heats up, the excitement and drama of baseball reach new heights, with every game taking on added significance and every win or loss felt deeply by players and fans alike. With the promise of a long summer ahead and the hope of championship glory on the horizon, the start of a new baseball season brings with it a sense of excitement and possibility that is unrivaled in the world of sports.

The NBA playoffs are a time of year that basketball fans eagerly anticipate, as the intensity ramps up and the world’s best players take their game to new heights in pursuit of championship glory. From buzzer-beating shots to epic comebacks, the NBA playoffs are a showcase of skill, determination, and heart-stopping drama.

As the regular season comes to a close, the top teams in each conference prepare to do battle in a quest for supremacy on the hardwood. From perennial powerhouses to upstart contenders, the playoffs are a chance for every team to prove themselves on the biggest stage in basketball.

The playoff format is a grueling test of endurance, with teams facing off in best-of-seven series that can stretch over several weeks. Every game is a high-stakes showdown, with momentum swinging on a single play and the fate of the season hanging in the balance.

For players, the playoffs represent the culmination of a season’s worth of hard work and dedication, as they push themselves to the limit in pursuit of the ultimate prize. From superstars to role players, every player knows that the playoffs are where legends are made and legacies are defined.

For fans, the NBA playoffs are a time of excitement, anticipation, and nail-biting tension, as they cheer on their favorite teams and players in pursuit of championship glory. Whether watching from the stands or from the comfort of home, fans are united in their passion for the game and their unwavering support for their team.

As the journey unfolds and the drama mounts, the NBA playoffs promise to deliver yet another unforgettable chapter in the storied history of professional basketball. With every shot, steal, and slam dunk, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to a season filled with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments.

As the NHL regular season draws to a close, hockey fans around the world eagerly await the start of the playoffs, where the intensity reaches new heights and the quest for the Stanley Cup begins in earnest. The NHL playoffs are a showcase of skill, determination, and resilience, as teams battle it out on the ice for a chance to etch their names into hockey immortality.

The playoffs represent a fresh start for every team, with the regular season standings cast aside as the race for the Stanley Cup begins. From perennial contenders to upstart underdogs, every team enters the playoffs with dreams of hoisting the most coveted trophy in professional hockey.

The playoff format is a grueling test of endurance, with teams facing off in best-of-seven series that can stretch over several weeks. From the opening round to the Stanley Cup Final, every game is a high-stakes battle, with momentum swinging on a single goal or a timely save.

As the playoffs progress, the intensity builds, and the drama unfolds, as players push themselves to the limit in pursuit of hockey glory. From overtime thrillers to epic comebacks, the playoffs are a showcase of the best that the sport has to offer, with every game delivering moments of heart-stopping excitement and unforgettable drama.

For fans, the NHL playoffs are a rollercoaster of emotions, with every win and loss felt deeply as teams fight tooth and nail for supremacy on the ice. Whether cheering from the stands or watching from home, fans are united in their passion for the game and their unwavering support for their favorite teams.

As the journey unfolds and the quest for the Stanley Cup reaches its climax, the NHL playoffs promise to deliver yet another unforgettable chapter in the storied history of professional hockey. With every shift, shot, and save, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to a season filled with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments.