Mike Burrows Looking Unhittable in Spring Training
Houston Astros right-hander Mike Burrows has been nearly unhittable in Grapefruit League action in spring training, throwing 12 2/3 scoreless innings in four outings. Burrows has struck out 15 batters, walked six, and given up only six hits after throwing 77 pitches over four innings of work on Thursday night. The Astros acquired the 26-year-old in a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates in December, and so far, it's looking like it could be a steal for the Astros. Burrows made one relief appearance for Pittsburgh in 2024 but saw his first extended run in the majors last year, posting a 3.94 ERA and 1.24 WHIP with 97 strikeouts and 31 walks in 96 innings over 23 outings (19 starts). He has added a two-seam fastball to help neutralize right-handed hitters and has breakout potential as a high-strikeout arm. Particularly in dynasty/keeper formats, Burrows is becoming more attractive as a late-round dart throw by the day.
Source: The Athletic - Chandler Rome
Source: The Athletic - Chandler Rome
Michael Misa Delivers Multi-Point Performance on Thursday
San Jose Sharks center Michael Misa had a goal and an assist in a 4-2 victory over the Boston Bruins on Thursday. He got the scoring started six minutes into the game and then assisted on William Eklund's goal in the third period. The second overall pick from the 2025 draft got off to a slow start this season, but now he has picked it up and has 15 points in 26 games so far. He has a bright future ahead of him.
Source: NHL.com
Source: NHL.com
Keyonte George to Be Re-Evaluated in Two Weeks
Utah Jazz point guard Keyonte George (hamstring) will be re-evaluated in two weeks, ESPN's Tim Bontemps reports. The talented guard was injured in Wednesday's loss to the New York Knicks and has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 right hamstring strain. George looks set to miss at least seven games, but considering the Jazz's approach to the season, it wouldn't be surprising if he were shut down for the rest of the campaign. Isaiah Collier will move into the starting point guard spot and is expected to make a big impact. Across his previous 16 starts this season, Collier has produced 15.3 points, 8.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game.
Source: Tim Bontemps
Source: Tim Bontemps
Isaac Okoro Remains Out Thursday
Chicago Bulls forward Isaac Okoro (knee) will miss a second consecutive game on Thursday against the Los Angeles Lakers. The 25-year-old was initially listed as questionable on the injury report. With Okoro unable to return to the lineup, Leonard Miller will make another start. He had a good outing with 17 points and 11 rebounds on Tuesday night against Golden State. Okoro will get his next chance to return on Friday night against the Clippers.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Brooks Baldwin Dealing With Right-Elbow Inflammation
Chicago White Sox utility man Brooks Baldwin (elbow) had imaging done on his right elbow that revealed inflammation, per Scott Merkin of MLB.com. While it's not entirely clear what the issue is for Baldwin, it appears as though he could be at risk of missing Opening Day. Across 328 plate appearances for Chicago in 2025, Baldwin slashed .240/.290/.407 with 11 home runs, 38 RBI, 32 runs scored, and five stolen bases. The 25-year-old's main appeal is his versatility, as he has spent time at every defensive position other than first base, catcher, and pitcher. If Baldwin misses time, recently acquired utility man Luisangel Acuna (eye) could see a more prominent role in the early portion of the season for the White Sox.
Source: MLB.com - Scott Merkin
Source: MLB.com - Scott Merkin
Ayo Dosunmu Could Miss Second Straight Game Friday
Minnesota Timberwolves guard/forward Ayo Dosunmu (thumb) is considered questionable for Friday night's action against the Golden State Warriors. The former Bull is listed on the injury report with a right thumb sprain and could be absent for a second consecutive contest. Since moving to Minnesota, Dosunmu has averaged 11.0 points and 2.5 assists in 25.3 minutes per game. Kyle Anderson and Terrence Shannon Jr. saw their workload increase when Dosunmu sat out Wednesday's loss to the Clippers. Despite receiving more minutes, the duo failed to make a significant impact, making them poor fantasy options at present.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Can Shea Langeliers Repeat 2025 Breakout in 2026?
Athletics catcher Shea Langeliers took his game to new heights in 2025, hitting .277/.325/.536 with 31 home runs, 72 RBI, 73 runs scored, and seven stolen bases across 523 plate appearances. The 28-year-old had already established himself as one of the better power-hitting catchers in the two years prior, hitting 51 combined home runs between 2023 and 2024. He emerged as a more complete hitter last season by dropping his strikeout rate to 19.7%, a significant improvement from his career average of 26.1%. Langeliers sacrificed a bit of hard contact for the improvement, as his barrel rate dropped from 12.8% to 11%. However, the Athletics' move to Sacramento and the extremely hitter-friendly Sutter Health Park helped offset any negatives for Langeliers. He also should be locked into a prime position in the heart of an improving Athletics lineup, helping him rack up counting stats. Even if Langeliers' batting average regresses a bit towards his career norm in 2026, he should still profile as one of the best hitters at his position for fantasy managers.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Chiefs Sign Emari Demercado to One-Year Deal
The Kansas City Chiefs signed former Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado to an undisclosed one-year deal on Thursday, sources told Jordan Schultz of FOX Sports. Demercado had over 1,100 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns (three rushing) in his three years with the team, and he'll now join Kenneth Walker III in KC's new-look backfield going into the 2026 season. The 27-year-old former undrafted free agent out of TCU had a career-high 312 rushing yards on 44 carries in 13 games in Arizona in 2025, but he didn't find the end zone on the ground. Demercado added 13 receptions for 101 yards and a touchdown in an expanded role after both James Conner (foot) and Trey Benson (knee) suffered season-ending injuries. He never held a big role in Arizona's backfield, but he was productive when he touched the ball, averaging 6.5 yards per attempt on 126 carries. Demercado should have more upside as a stash candidate in deeper fantasy leagues while competing for backup duties with Brashard Smith.
Source: FOX Sports - Jordan Schultz
Source: FOX Sports - Jordan Schultz
Patrick Williams Ruled Out Thursday
Chicago Bulls forward Patrick Williams (ankle) has been downgraded from doubtful to out for Thursday's contest against the Los Angeles Lakers. Williams was trending in the wrong direction throughout the day, having been listed as questionable on the initial injury report. The 24-year-old hasn't been able to build any momentum this season and will be sidelined for the sixth time in seven games. Chicago begins a back-to-back set, and it's unclear whether Williams will be in contention to play on Friday against the Clippers.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Zach Charbonnet's Knee Surgery Goes "Very Well"
Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider said on Seattle Sports Radio on Thursday that running back Zach Charbonnet's (knee) ACL surgery "went very well," and his "outlook is good." Schneider wouldn't provide a timeline for Charbonnet's recovery or a timetable for when he might be able to resume football activities. The 25-year-old tore the ACL in his knee during the Divisional Round win against the San Francisco 49ers, so given the timing of the injury, it wouldn't be realistic to expect Charbonnet to be ready for Week 1 of the 2026 regular season. Typically, recovery from a torn ACL takes anywhere from eight to 12 months. Seattle's backfield is thin because of Charb's injury, and with Kenneth Walker III signing with the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency. If Charbonnet isn't ready in early September, the Seahawks could pair a rookie RB with both George Holani and newcomer Emanuel Wilson. Charbonnet's 2026 fantasy value is probably going to take a pretty big hit because of his injury, but when he's finally healthy, he could have a clear path to being the RB1.
Source: The Athletic - Michael-Shawn Dugar
Source: The Athletic - Michael-Shawn Dugar
LeBron James Returns to Action Thursday
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (foot, hip) will return to action on Thursday night against the Chicago Bulls, ESPN's Dave McMenamin reports. The veteran superstar has dealt with several health issues recently, missing three games. Rui Hachimura has been a starter during James' absence and will likely drop back to the bench for Thursday's tilt. James had a 24-point outing in his first meeting with the Bulls this season. He has averaged 19.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, 6.8 assists, and 1.1 steals since making his 22nd All-Star appearance.
Source: Dave McMenamin
Source: Dave McMenamin
Randy Arozarena Remains a Bankable Power/Speed Threat Heading into 2026
In his first full season with the Seattle Mariners in 2025, outfielder Randy Arozarena hit .238/.334/.426 with 27 home runs, 76 RBI, 95 runs scored, and 31 stolen bases across 709 plate appearances. Heading into 2026, Arozarena is locked into a max-playing time role in the heart of the Seattle order and should be highly motivated to put together his best season, as he will hit free agency next winter. The main hole in Arozarena's profile from a fantasy perspective remains batting average. The 31-year-old has posted strikeout rates north of 26% in each of the last two seasons and has hit .236 across 948 plate appearances with Seattle. Still, Arozarena posted excellent hard-hit (50.6%) and barrel (11.5%) rates in 2025, and he's recorded at least 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases in five consecutive seasons. As long as he continues to stay healthy, Arozarena looks like a good bet to be a power/speed asset for fantasy managers once again in 2026.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Guerschon Yabusele Unavailable Thursday Night
Chicago Bulls forward/center Guerschon Yabusele (foot) will miss Thursday's encounter with the Los Angeles Lakers. He has been ruled out for the contest after being downgraded to doubtful on the injury report earlier on Thursday. Meanwhile, Jalen Smith (calf) has been cleared to play and will anchor the frontcourt with Nick Richards. Bulls head coach Billy Donovan has already announced that Smith is likely to be held out of Friday's matchup with the Clippers, which would allow Yabusele to take on a significant role again if he's ready to return.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
George Holani to Have Bigger Role in Seattle's Backfield?
Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider praised running back George Holani on Seattle Sports radio on Thursday, so it sounds like Holani will have a bigger role in 2026, according to John Boyle of the team's official website. Super Bowl LX MVP Kenneth Walker III left in free agency to sign with the Kansas City Chiefs, and there's a good chance Zach Charbonnet (knee) won't be ready for the start of the 2026 regular season this fall after tearing his ACL in the Divisional Round win over the San Francisco 49ers. The Seahawks added former Green Bay Packers RB Emanuel Wilson in free agency for more backfield depth, but if Charbonnet isn't ready for Week 1 in September, Holani could be Seattle's RB1, depending on what they do in the upcoming NFL draft in April. The 26-year-old mostly worked on special teams in 11 regular-season games in 2025, carrying the ball only 22 times for 73 yards and one touchdown and catching both of his targets for 15 yards. Most likely, the Seahawks will pair a rookie RB with Holani and Wilson to begin next season while they wait for Charbonnet to heal.
Source: Seahawks.com - John Boyle
Source: Seahawks.com - John Boyle
Matas Buzelis Will Play Against Lakers
Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis (ankle) will suit up on Thursday against the Los Angeles Lakers. Due to an ankle injury, Buzelis was initially listed as probable for the game. The 21-year-old sophomore is fresh off a career night against the Warriors and should be full of confidence ahead of Thursday's matchup. Since the All-Star break, Buzelis has produced averages of 19.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Is George Kirby in Line for a Return to Form in 2026?
All in all, Seattle Mariners starting pitcher George Kirby has been one of MLB's most consistent right-handers since making his MLB debut in 2022. However, the 28-year-old had his first taste of real adversity in 2025. Kirby opened the year on the Injured List due to a shoulder issue that ultimately delayed his season debut until late May. Upon his return, Kirby pitched to a 10-8 record with a 4.21 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and 137 strikeouts in 126 innings (23 starts). Kirby's strikeout rate soared to a career-best 26.1%, but he also allowed the highest opponent hard-hit rate (43.9%) of his career. Still, there's plenty of reason to think Kirby can regain his top-end form in 2026. While his walk rate spiked from 3.0% in 2024 to 5.5% in 2025, Kirby remains one of baseball's best command artists and could easily return to his career WHIP mark of 1.11. If he can hold some of the strikeout gains he made in 2025 while seeing a bit more batted ball luck, Kirby could post an ace-level season for fantasy managers.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Josh Giddey Cleared to Face Lakers
Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey (ankle) has received the green light to play on Thursday night against the Los Angeles Lakers. He was listed as probable on the initial injury report. Despite dealing with a right ankle sprain, Giddey logged 43 minutes in Tuesday's overtime against Golden State, so he doesn't appear to be limited in any way. Giddey produced a 21-13-17 line against the Warriors and will head out for his third consecutive triple-double on Thursday.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Can Freddie Freeman Continue to Fight Off Father Time in 2026?
Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman put together another rock-solid season in 2025, slashing .295/.367/.502 with 24 home runs, 90 RBI, 81 runs scored, and six stolen bases across 627 plate appearances. Under the hood, the 36-year-old is finally starting to show some signs of slowing down. Freeman's 20.4% strikeout rate in 2025 was his worst since 2016, and his 9.6% walk rate was his worst since 2011. However, Freeman has played through nagging injuries for much of the past two seasons and is reportedly feeling the best he's felt in a while going into 2026. He also boosted his barrel rate back to 10.4% in 2025 after it had dipped to a career low of 9.1% in 2024. Fantasy managers may not be able to count on peak Freeman anymore, but the veteran lefty remains one of MLB's best pure hitters and should continue to rack up counting stats in the heart of the excellent Dodgers' lineup.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Jalen Smith Cleared to Play Thursday
Chicago Bulls forward/center Jalen Smith (calf) has been upgraded from questionable to available for Thursday's matchup against the Lakers. Smith recently logged 12 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, one block, and two 3-pointers in 34 minutes as a starter and should continue seeing meaningful frontcourt minutes if his workload remains intact. His availability could cut into Nick Richards' playing time, lowering Richards' short-term streaming appeal. Smith's mix of boards, blocks, and some floor spacing keeps him on the radar as a deeper league hold, especially if he continues to see stable playing time.
Source: K.C. Johnson
Source: K.C. Johnson
Moses Moody to Miss Fifth Straight Game Friday
Golden State Warriors guard/forward Moses Moody (wrist) will be out for a fifth straight game on Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Warriors announced earlier this week that Moody has resumed on-court activities. According to head coach Steve Kerr, the 23-year-old could be an option during the team's upcoming six-game road trip, which begins on Sunday in New York. Gary Payton II and Will Richard will continue to enjoy extra playing time until Moody returns.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Collin Sexton Out Thursday Against Lakers
Chicago Bulls guard Collin Sexton (leg) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Lakers after initially being listed as questionable due to a left leg injury. His absence should continue to open minutes for Tre Jones, who delivered 22 points, five assists, four rebounds, one steal, and two 3-pointers across 34 minutes off the bench in the last game. Second-year guard Rob Dillingham also saw 20 minutes with five points and four assists, making him a deeper league streamer. Jones profiles as the safer short-term fantasy play, while Dillingham remains a riskier upside option.
Source: K.C. Johnson
Source: K.C. Johnson
Quinten Post Iffy for Friday
Golden State Warriors center Quinten Post (foot) is listed as questionable for Friday's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Dutch big man is managing a foot injury and could be out for the third time in four games. Post has delivered some fine performances during his sophomore campaign, but the Warriors won't miss him as long as Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis are healthy. Both veterans are expected to play on Friday night.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Can Alexis Diaz Emerge as the Primary Closer in Texas?
Across 131 appearances for the Cincinnati Reds between 2023 and 2024, Texas Rangers relief pitcher Alexis Diaz racked up 65 saves and 141 strikeouts. However, things came unraveled for the 29-year-old in 2025. Across 17 2/3 innings split between the Reds, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Atlanta Braves, Diaz pitched to an 8.15 ERA and 1.53 WHIP while recording nearly as many walks (12) as strikeouts (17). Coming off the brutal season, the Rangers signed Diaz to a one-year contract this past offseason. The right-hander obviously has a lot to prove to get his MLB career back on track. However, Diaz could have a golden opportunity to emerge as the team's primary ninth-inning option if he can rediscover his prior form. Left-hander Robert Garcia currently looks like the favorite to be the closer in Texas, but he owns just nine career saves and has never recorded a WHIP below 1.19. If Diaz pitches well early in 2026, he may end up being a sneaky saves candidate for fantasy managers to target.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
De'Anthony Melton Listed as Questionable for Friday
Golden State Warriors guard De'Anthony Melton (adductor) is questionable to play on Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Melton has been a regular on the injury report this season while managing a knee injury, but he has now hurt his left adductor muscle. This issue could sideline him for a second consecutive game. Will Richard started in Melton's absence on Tuesday against Chicago and may keep his spot for Friday's game. The 23-year-old rookie had eight points, four rebounds, one assist, and three steals in an overtime defeat. Pat Spencer, who contributed 17 points and six assists, and Gary Payton II, who had a 12-point, 11-rebound double-double, are also in a position to see more action without Melton.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Josh Hart May Miss Another Game Friday
New York Knicks guard/forward Josh Hart (knee) is considered questionable for Friday's tilt against the Indiana Pacers. He is bothered by a sore left knee and missed Wednesday's win over Utah after being questionable. It remains to be seen whether the same happens on Friday night. While Landry Shamet moved into the first unit to replace Hart, Jordan Clarkson benefited the most from his absence against Utah. He reappeared as a regular in the rotation and popped off for a season-high 27 points against his former team. Shamet had a quiet night with seven points, three rebounds, four assists, and one steal.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Day'Ron Sharpe to Miss Remainder of Season
Brooklyn Nets center Day'Ron Sharpe (thumb) will miss the rest of the season after being diagnosed with a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb that requires surgery. Sharpe had carved out a steady reserve role, averaging 8.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.1 steals across 62 appearances. Danny Wolf should see the biggest opportunity increase after posting 13 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and two blocks in 28 minutes last game. Josh Minott and Chaney Johnson could also see deeper rotation minutes, though both profile as risky deep-league streamers.
Source: Erik Slater
Source: Erik Slater
Karl-Anthony Towns Questionable to Face Pacers Friday
New York Knicks forward/center Karl-Anthony Towns (knee) is listed as questionable for Friday's meeting with the Indiana Pacers. The six-time All-Star has landed on the injury report with bilateral knee soreness. If Towns sits out the action, the Knicks are expected to promote Mitchell Robinson to the starting lineup. While moving into the first unit would boost Robinson's fantasy appeal, he has averaged only 3.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.0 steals in 19.1 minutes as a starter this season. Ariel Hukporti's role would also increase if Towns doesn't play.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Keyonte George Sidelined Against Portland
Utah Jazz guard Keyonte George (hamstring) is out for Friday's game against the Trail Blazers after suffering a right hamstring strain during Wednesday's loss to the Knicks. With Utah likely to be cautious this late in the season, George could remain sidelined beyond one game. Isaiah Collier should see an expanded role after posting nine points, two rebounds, five assists, and one 3-pointer in 19 minutes last game. With fantasy playoffs already underway in many leagues, Collier is trending toward must-roster status. Brice Sensabaugh and Ace Bailey could also see modest usage bumps.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Harrison Barnes Returns to Spurs Lineup
San Antonio Spurs forward Harrison Barnes (ankle) will rejoin the lineup on Thursday against the Denver Nuggets. The veteran made 364 consecutive appearances before missing the last five games due to an ankle problem. Barnes might have extra responsibilities on Thursday with Victor Wembanyama (ankle) out of the lineup, though he will once again come off the bench. As a reserve, Barnes has averaged 7.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.8 assists this season.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Alperen Sengun Questionable for Friday Due to Back Issue
Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (back) may have to exit the lineup on Friday against the New Orleans Pelicans, as he has been listed as questionable on the injury report. The Turkish star is experiencing lower back pain and could be sidelined for the first time since Jan. 9. While losing Sengun would be a blow for Houston, Clint Capela is a capable replacement and would be an intriguing fantasy option if he moves into the first unit on Friday night. It's a promising matchup for Houston's big men, as New Orleans ranks sixth in the league for most fantasy points allowed to centers.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
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