February 8, 2026

Former Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr could be tempted to come out of retirement for the right situation, according to NFL Insider Ian Rapoport. The Saints still control the rights of the now 34-year-old Carr, who retired in May of 2025 following a season-ending labral tear, and New Orleans could seek trade compensation should he unretire. In his abbreviated two seasons with the Saints, Carr completed over 68% of his passes for 40 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. While Carr himself has not publicly declared any intentions of an NFL return, a weak 2026 rookie quarterback class and a higher-than-normal coaching turnover could leave several teams in search of a veteran quarterback.--Patrick McGrath
Source: Ian Rapoport

February 8, 2026

Atlanta Falcons rookie defensive end James Pearce Jr. was arrested on Saturday on two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and fleeing/eluding police. The arrest came in Florida after Pearce crashed his car, following a police chase. Pearce, whom the Falcons traded their 2026 first-round pick to acquire in the 2025 draft, was in San Francisco days earlier for the NFL Honors, where he was nominated for Defensive Rookie of the Year. The Falcons have issued a statement, saying, "We are aware of an incident involving James Pearce Jr., in Miami. We are in the process of gathering more information and will not have any further comment on an open legal matter at this time." In addition to the criminal charges he faces, Pearce is now subject to investigation under the NFL's personal conduct policy that will likely lead to suspension.--Patrick McGrath
Source: Mike Garafolo

February 8, 2026

The Dallas Cowboys are expected to place their franchise tag on Second-Team All-Pro wide receiver George Pickens. Dallas acquired Pickens via trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers before the 2025 season, and in his first season with the Cowboys, the fourth-year wideout set career highs in receptions, yards, and touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl nod. Should Pickens hit the open market, he would be the unquestioned prize of the wide receiver free agency class and could easily demand a top-of-the-market deal. By placing the franchise tag on him, the Cowboys would retain Pickens' rights at the cost of roughly $28 million for 2026, with the hope of working toward a long-term extension. Pickens is a borderline top-10 dynasty wide receiver, and his value should continue to rise if the Cowboys succeed in making Dallas his home for the foreseeable future.--Patrick McGrath
Source: ESPN

February 8, 2026

Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Christian Yelich put together a standout season in 2025. He slashed .264/.343/.452 with 29 home runs, 103 RBI, and 16 stolen bases across 150 games. The 29 long balls were the most for Yelich since the 2019 season, when he blasted 44 homers. The increased power also came with a much higher strikeout rate. Yelich recorded a 25.9% strikeout rate, which is his highest since the 2020 season. The other concern is his health, as Yelich only played 73 games in 2024 due to lingering back issues. Yelich played less than 20 games in the outfield in 2025 and is basically limited to designated hitter duties at this point in his career. The 34-year-old offers five-category upside, but the risk of injury and age-related decline are certainly a factor. The three-time All-Star should still be productive, but another 29-homer campaign seems unlikely.--Andy Webb
Source: Baseball Reference

February 8, 2026

Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Emilio Pagan became the top option in the bullpen last season. Pagan took over as the primary closer and ran away with the job. He finished the season with a 2.88 ERA, 0.91 WHIP, and an 81/22 K/BB ratio with 32 saves in 70 appearances. The biggest concern is the fly-ball rate in a hitter's park in Cincinnati. His 56.7% fly-ball rate is too high to continue having the type of success he experienced last season. Pagan gave up 10 long balls across 68.2 innings, which was his most since the 2022 campaign. His 29.1% ground-ball rate doesn't do him any favors. The 34-year-old will likely need to miss bats and record strikeouts at a higher rate to replicate the same success. Given the lack of competition, Pagan should be a safe bet for around 20 saves, but another 30-plus season seems unlikely.--Andy Webb
Source: Baseball Reference

February 8, 2026

The Colorado Rockies have signed outfielder Conner Capel to a minor-league deal with an invite to Spring Training. Capel spent all of the 2025 season with Triple-A with the Atlanta Braves organization. He slashed .234/.314/.360 with 10 home runs, 39 RBI, and 21 steals during his 119 games in Triple-A Gwinnett. Capel has only played 59 career big league games since making his debut in 2022. This is looking like a depth move for the Rockies. The 28-year-old will need to compete with Brenton Doyle, Jake McCarthy, Jordan Beck, Mickey Moniak, and Tyler Freeman for playing time in Colorado. The expectation is that Capel will begin the season in the minors.--Andy Webb
Source: Milb Central

February 8, 2026

The Philadelphia Phillies have re-signed relief pitcher Lou Trivino to a minor-league deal with an invite to Spring Training. Trivino made appearances with the San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers before finishing out the season in Philly. In total, Trivino registered a 3.97 ERA, 1.34 WHIP, and a 37/18 K/BB ratio in 47 games between the three teams. The 34-year-old has a ton of late-inning experience with 116 games finished and 37 saves across his six big league seasons. The Phillies already have a closer, so Trivino would probably work mostly in middle relief, assuming he makes the team. Trivino is unlikely to offer fantasy value, but could be a sneaky solid pickup for the Phillies.--Andy Webb
Source: Ken Rosenthal

February 8, 2026

Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Keegan Akin has lost his arbitration case with the organization. Akin filed at $3.37 million, which is more than double ($1.47 million) his salary from the 2024 campaign. Akin loses his case and will now make $2.97 million for the upcoming 2026 season. Last season, Akin registered a 3.41 ERA, 1.37 WHIP, and a 59/33 K/BB ratio across 64 games with the Orioles. It was a solid season from the lefty reliever, but not quite as good as his 2024 season. That year, Akin posted a 3.32 ERA with a 97/19 K/BB ratio in 66 contests. The 30-year-old is still a trustworthy option, but doesn't offer much fantasy value in a setup or middle relief role.--Andy Webb
Source: Mark Feinsand

February 8, 2026

Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (knee) is considered day-to-day after being held out of Saturday's win, with the team monitoring right knee soreness. His status for Monday is still up in the air, leaving the frontcourt unsettled. Jaxson Hayes is the next man up if Ayton sits and should continue starting, though his fantasy appeal is limited to rebounds and blocks. Jarred Vanderbilt and Maxi Kleber would also absorb minutes, but both remain fringe options. Managers can hold Ayton for now, but it's smart to have a short-term backup ready.--Brian Dailisan
Source: Dave McMenamin

February 8, 2026

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (hamstring) is dealing with a mild strain and was held out Saturday, leaving him day-to-day. With a back-to-back approaching, the Lakers are expected to monitor the issue closely, making his short-term availability uncertain. In the meantime, usage should shift elsewhere. Austin Reaves becomes the primary playmaking beneficiary, while Marcus Smart is in line for steadier ball-handling minutes. Jake LaRavia and newly acquired Luke Kennard could also see added wing run, with Kennard offering low-end three-point streaming appeal if the absence lingers.--Brian Dailisan
Source: Daniel Starkand

February 8, 2026

Golden State Warriors forward/center Kristaps Porzingis (Achilles) is expected to wait until after the All-Star break to make his team debut as the organization continues to prioritize a cautious ramp-up. The 30-year-old big man has yet to suit up following his trade and remains in recovery mode. His delayed return keeps Golden State's frontcourt stable for now, with Draymond Green and Al Horford holding steady roles. Gui Santos has quietly emerged as a fantasy-relevant piece, averaging 15.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.3 assists over his last three starts. Santos profiles as a short-term deep-league add, while Porzingis remains a stash with clear shutdown risk baked in.--Brian Dailisan
Source: Danny Emerman

February 8, 2026

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (knee) is considered doubtful for Monday against Memphis, with the team signaling caution that could keep the veteran sidelined until after the All-Star break. Curry has already missed three straight games, and Golden State has leaned on committee production. Pat Spencer has delivered 15.7 points, 3.7 three-pointers, 5.0 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.3 steals in 28.9 minutes during the absence, making him a viable short-term streamer. De'Anthony Melton adds defensive juice with 3.0 steals, while Brandin Podziemski offers steady minutes but a lower ceiling. Moses Moody's scoring spike also warrants monitoring.--Brian Dailisan
Source: Danny Emerman

February 8, 2026

Phoenix Suns guard/forward Grayson Allen (knee) will be re-evaluated after the All-Star break after missing Saturday's loss to Philadelphia, temporarily halting a strong scoring run. Allen was providing steady scoring from the wing before his injury, and his absence creates a clear opening for increased perimeter usage. Royce O'Neale stepped up last game with 14 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, and two steals in 34 minutes, making him a short-term streamer. Jordan Goodwin logged 27 minutes but remains a deep-league option, while Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks should shoulder added scoring usage.--Brian Dailisan
Source: Duane Rankin

February 8, 2026

Utah Jazz guard Keyonte George (ankle) exited Saturday's loss to Orlando late in the second quarter and did not return after rolling his ankle, finishing with five points, one rebound, one assist, and one steal in 13 minutes. George had just returned from a left ankle issue, putting his short-term availability in question again. Isaiah Collier stepped into a larger role and is the clear fantasy winner, coming off a four-game stretch averaging 20.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, 12.5 assists, and 2.5 steals while logging heavy minutes. Collier profiles as a strong assist streamer, while Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr. could absorb modest usage bumps.--Brian Dailisan
Source: Utah Jazz

February 8, 2026

Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (hip) exited Saturday's win over Chicago late in the fourth quarter and is considered questionable for Monday against Cleveland. Murray was dominant before leaving, posting 28 points, three rebounds, and 11 assists in 31 minutes, and Denver was already in control. The team expressed optimism about his status, but any missed time would create a major fantasy ripple. Bruce Brown profiles as the primary beneficiary after logging 31 minutes with 10 points, three rebounds, four assists, three steals, and one block. Jalen Pickett has fallen out of the rotation but could resurface as a deep-league assists flier if Murray sits.--Brian Dailisan
Source: Katy Winge

February 8, 2026

Miami Marlins second baseman Xavier Edwards isn't a major power threat, but he gets on base and runs well, giving him plenty of fantasy value. He has also ascended into an everyday role, jumping from 70 games in 2024 to 139 contests in 2025. While his on-base skills slipped slightly during that span, he still posted at least 2.2 fWAR for the second year in a row. All in all, Edwards' 2025 campaign consisted of a .283/.343/.353 slash line, three home runs, 27 stolen bases, 95 wRC+, a 7.9% walk rate, and a 14.2% strikeout rate. The most glaring hole in his offensive profile is the lack of power; he has just four career home runs, posting a 0.4% home run rate. Still, his ability to reach safely and steal bases makes him an appealing name in fantasy baseball leagues. Plus, we can expect him to remain in an everyday role -- primarily at second base with some occasional shortstop appearances -- after Miami didn't really shake up its infield during the offseason. As it stands, Edwards ranks as the #12 second baseman and #100 hitter in RotoBaller's latest fantasy baseball draft rankings for 2026.--Andersen Pickard
Source: RotoBaller

February 8, 2026

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Andy Pages should remain in an everyday role despite the team's addition of Kyle Tucker during the offseason. Pages played 156 games last year; all of them were spent in the outfield, and he did a decent amount of moving around. He logged 121 appearances in center field, 51 in right, and 27 in left. Of course, those numbers sum to greater than 156, indicating that Pages frequently switched positions mid-game. Presumably, he'll be doing less of that in 2026. The Tucker signing moves Teoscar Hernandez to left field, giving the Dodgers two everyday contributors in the corner outfield spots. As a result, Pages should get more consistent playing time in center field. He has shown that he can handle the position, as he posted 5 OAA and 7 FRV there in 2025. In addition to terrific defense, Pages had a strong season at the plate, slashing .272/.313/.461 with career-highs in home runs (27), RBI (86), and stolen bases (14). However, he did post a 4.6% walk rate and 21.6% strikeout rate. Outside of the far-from-ideal K/BB ratio, Pages had an excellent 2025 season, both at the plate and in the field. If anything, playing center field more consistently should allow him to develop a routine and could lead to even better statistics in 2026. As it stands, he ranks as the #42 outfielder and #93 hitter in RotoBaller's latest fantasy baseball draft rankings.--Andersen Pickard
Source: RotoBaller

February 8, 2026

Cincinnati Reds third baseman/outfielder Noelvi Marte had a solid season at the plate last year, and he should take on an even larger role during the 2026 season. Marte ultimately played 90 games last year, slashing .263/.300/.448 with 14 home runs and 10 stolen bases. He technically decreased his K/BB rate from 2024 to 2025, but he still struck out at a 23.6% clip while walking just 4.4% of the time. The 24-year-old was ultimately right near league-average at the plate, producing 101 wRC+. Defensively, he split time between third base and right field, performing markedly better at the latter. He finished the year with -2 OAA and -2 FRV at the hot corner, but just -1 OAA and 0 FRV in right field. FanGraphs' ZiPS projections estimate more playing time (115 games) for Marte in 2026, and specifically, we expect him to play more right field with Ke'Bryan Hayes slotted into third base. At the moment, Marte ranks #34 among outfielders and #78 among hitters in RotoBaller's latest fantasy baseball draft rankings.--Andersen Pickard
Source: RotoBaller

February 8, 2026

Toronto Blue Jays third baseman/outfielder Addison Barger endured a busy 2025 season in the majors, and he'll remain in a central role as the Jays take the field in 2026. Barger debuted midway through the 2024 campaign, so last year was his first full season in the majors. He played in a total of 135 games, slashing .243/.301/.454 with 21 homers, 74 RBI, 107 wRC+, a 7.2% walk rate, and a 24.1% strikeout rate. While he struck out more than the Jays and fantasy managers would prefer, he certainly made up for it with his power and above-average wRC+. Heading into 2026, we should expect similar offensive contributions from the 26-year-old. FanGraphs' latest ZiPS projections estimate that he'll slug 21 homers with a 109 wRC+, while bumping his walk rate up to 8.5% and his strikeout rate down to 23.2%. There's a lot of confidence in the bat, but a bit more uncertainty surrounding his defense -- specifically, where he'll play. Barger split last season between third base and right field, but the hot corner now belongs to free agent signing Kazuma Okamoto. Barger should get right field reps against left-handed pitching, but he could head to the bench in favor of Davis Schneider when there's a righty on the mound. These questions create a little bit of murkiness around an otherwise very encouraging profile for Barger, who ranks #105 among hitters and #48 among outfielders in RotoBaller's latest fantasy baseball draft rankings for 2026.--Andersen Pickard
Source: RotoBaller

February 8, 2026

The Houston Astros' trade talks surrounding corner infielder Isaac Paredes are "intensifying," according to Chandler Rome of Crush City Territory. "There appears to be some pretty direct motivation, and it appears that things are gaining some momentum," Rome said. He added that up to five teams (including the Boston Red Sox and Pittsburgh Pirates) have expressed interest in acquiring the 26-year-old. Paredes' name has been one of the most oft-mentioned in trade rumors this offseason, and for good reason. He's appealing to opposing teams because he's a power-hitting threat with solid walk and strikeout numbers, and he's a reasonable trade candidate for the Astros because he's not currently in an everyday role. Carlos Correa is expected to spend most of the season at third base, and Christian Walker should play somewhat consistently at first base. As a result, Paredes' path to consistent playing time would likely be a trade. He's a free agent after the 2027 season, and any trade won't necessarily come cheap. He's coming off a strong campaign in which he slashed .254/.352/.458 across 102 games with 20 home runs, 53 RBI, 128 wRC+, an 11.7% walk rate, and a 17.4% strikeout rate. Of the two prospective teams that Rome mentioned, Boston has a clear need at third base after losing Alex Bregman, and Pittsburgh has been looking for an upgrade at the hot corner ever since trading away Ke'Bryan Hayes. The latest Steamer projections estimate that Paredes will post 125 wRC+ in 2026 if he stays in Houston. He currently ranks as the #30 corner infielder and #106 hitter in RotoBaller's latest fantasy baseball draft rankings.--Andersen Pickard
Source: Chandler Rome

February 7, 2026

Denver Nuggets guard Christian Braun (ankle) is upgraded to available ahead of Saturday's game against the Chicago Bulls. As expected, Braun has been cleared to play after being listed as probable on the injury report. He has played in two straight games since returning from a 12-game absence due to injury. He finished with six points, six assists, and seven rebounds across 43 minutes of action during Wednesday's game. It doesn't sound like Braun is going to have a minutes limit anymore, so fantasy managers should expect him to be a full-go for Saturday's game.--Andy Webb
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 7, 2026

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (ankle) is available to play ahead of Saturday's game against the Chicago Bulls. Jokic is available to play after tweaking his ankle during Wednesday's contest. It doesn't appear to be serious enough to cause Jokic to miss any game action. He figures to operate in his normal role in the starting five during Saturday's game. The Nuggets could monitor him, but fantasy managers should feel comfortable getting Jokic in their lineups ahead of tip-off. The superstar big man has too much upside to bench even with a banged-up ankle.--Andy Webb
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 7, 2026

Denver Nuggets forward Cameron Johnson (knee) is available to suit up ahead of Saturday's game against the Chicago Bulls. Johnson is back after being sidelined since December 23 due to a right knee bone bruise. Given he has missed over a month of action, Johnson figures to operate under a minutes limit on Saturday. His return to the rotation should mean fewer minutes for Julian Strawther and Bruce Brown. This season, Johnson is averaging 11.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 30.6 minutes per game. His fantasy value will be capped until he gets back up to full speed. Once he's fully healthy, Johnson should be worth rostering in deep leagues at the minimum.--Andy Webb
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 7, 2026

Atlanta Hawks guard Buddy Hield is set to make his team debut versus the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday. Hield and Jonathan Kuminga (knee) were part of a trade that sent Kristaps Porzingis (Achilles) to the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday. Hield is ready to make his debut, but doesn't have a clear path to consistent playing time. He'll likely compete with CJ McCollum and Gabe Vincent for backup guard minutes. Before the trade, Hield was averaging 8.0 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 17.5 minutes per game this season. He might see an uptick in value with the Hawks, but not enough to warrant rostering in most fantasy formats.--Andy Webb
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 7, 2026

Utah Jazz guard Keyonte George (ankle) is available to play ahead of Saturday's game against the Orlando Magic. George is returning to the court after missing the last three games due to an ankle injury. There is no word on George having a minutes limit, so fantasy managers should expect him to have his full workload. His return to the court should shift Isaiah Collier back to the second unit. Collier was playing excellently in the absence of George, but he will see a reduced role now. Fantasy managers should adjust their lineups ahead of tip-off.--Andy Webb
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 7, 2026

Atlanta Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu (mouth) is available to play ahead of Saturday's game against the Charlotte Hornets. Okongwu is back after missing the last four games due to having a dental procedure. His return to the court should shift Jock Landale back to the second unit. This season, Okongwu is averaging 16.3 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists across 32.0 minutes per game. He has been one of the best big men in the league and should be started in all fantasy formats. Fantasy managers should double-check their lineups and get Okongwu in there ahead of tip-off.--Andy Webb
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 7, 2026

Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk (illness) is ruled out ahead of Saturday's game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Monk is coming off an 18-point performance against the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday. Now, he's under the weather and will miss the second leg of this back-to-back set. The Kings are expected to use a committee approach to fill the void left by Monk. Nique Clifford, Devin Carter, and Daeqwon Plowden should all see more minutes on Saturday. Among the three, Clifford is likely the best streaming choice with Monk sidelined for Saturday's slate.--Andy Webb
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 7, 2026

Chicago Bulls forward Jalen Smith (calf) is ruled out ahead of Saturday's game against the Denver Nuggets. Smith will take a seat after suffering a strained right calf during Thursday's contest. His absence will leave the Bulls shorthanded, with Nikola Vucevic being moved at the trade deadline. Guerschon Yabusele and Nick Richards should be asked to pick up the slack with Smith on the sideline. Yabusele finished with 15 points, 11 rebounds, and three assists during his team debut on Thursday. He's worth a look as a streaming option with Smith unavailable for this one.--Andy Webb
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 7, 2026

Minnesota Wild defenseman Quinn Hughes is set to be one of the standout players at the 2026 Olympic tournament. The American blue-liner has been in great form recently, setting a new Wild record for the longest assist streak by a defenseman. Hughes has had at least one helper in 10 consecutive appearances. This has also made him the first defenseman in NHL history with an assist streak of at least 10 games in his first season with a franchise. Thanks to his impressive playmaking ability, Hughes is tied with Tampa Bay's Nikita Kucherov for the longest active point streak in the NHL. Overall, Hughes has tallied 31 assists and 34 points in 26 appearances with the Wild, averaging a massive 28:18 of ice time. He is also set to eat up a lot of ice time on Team USA's blue line, along with Columbus' Zach Werenski and Boston's Charlie McAvoy.--Taavi Pailk
Source: ESPN

February 7, 2026

Forward Juho Lammikko has rejoined the ZSC Lions of the Swiss National League. The 30-year-old originally signed with the team in 2022 but returned to the NHL for the start of the 2025-26 campaign. Lammikko made 24 appearances with the New Jersey Devils before his contract was mutually terminated this week. He managed only two assists and failed to score with 15 shots on goal. Lammikko has previously also appeared in the NHL with the Florida Panthers and Vancouver Canucks. He has struggled to adjust to life in North America, posting 28 points (11 goals, 17 assists) in 183 games. With him now 30, it's safe to assume Lammikko won't make another comeback attempt. Things have worked out much better for him in Switzerland, as Lammikko has won two championships with the Lions, scoring 60 goals and 131 points in 176 outings.--Taavi Pailk
Source: Swiss Hockey News