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Allegiant Stadium (Las Vegas) — It’s hard to beat the odds here.

The Raiders are 7-27 over the last two years, the second-worst such mark in the NFL. In their six seasons in Las Vegas, they’ve had a winning record once, and as a franchise, they have not won a single playoff game in the 22-year lifetime of their rookie quarterback, Fernando Mendoza.

They are trying to climb out of the bottom of a division with a Denver Broncos team that was the AFC’s top seed last year, a Kansas City Chiefs team that’s been to five Super Bowls in seven years and won three of them, and a Los Angeles Chargers team that might be better than both of those this season. Their hometown oddsmakers give them 18-to-1 odds to win the AFC West.

It’s the exact same odds as rolling an 11 with two dice, and yet it seems even harder with the 11 the Raiders have been rolling with on any given play.

But Thursday, in just a relief appearance in a preseason game, Mendoza gave Raiders fans a bit of hope, a sign that better days are coming. And once you’ve won a Heisman Trophy and a national championship at Indiana, what exactly constitutes a long shot?

“He shows up every day, works his ass off,” Raiders Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby told me about Mendoza in the locker room at Allegiant Stadium. “He’s doing a great job. He’s been a great addition to the locker room, and I’m super excited for him. He’s done it exactly the right way. He’s putting his head down and working, building relationships, just soaking up knowledge and getting better.”

Fernando Mendoza completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown in the Raiders’ loss to the Cardinals. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images)

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Thursday’s preseason debut was Mendoza’s first chance to soak things up more actively. Training camp practices can go a long way, but this was his first chance to truly feel the speed of the NFL, to appreciate how much harder it is than the college football world he dominated in a 16-0 breakout season last year.

On one play, Mendoza scrambled to his right, tried to avoid a sack and ran upfield before he went out of bounds, instead taking a hit and sailing the ball onto the sidelines. It was a lesson that some of the things he could get away with in college, he can’t in the NFL, at least right now.

“There was one play where I scrambled to the right, and usually sometimes I’ll be able to get the edge, maybe scramble for 2 or 3 yards, and it’s like ‘Wow, it got there a little faster than I thought,'” Mendoza said at the podium. “I’m really trying to get around them, try to throw the ball away, make the smart play to best serve my teammates. So I would say definitely faster, and they hit harder. So surprise, but no surprise.”

Unlike most No. 1 overall picks, Mendoza hasn’t been handed the Raiders’ starting job. First-year Las Vegas coach Klint Kubiak said after Thursday’s loss that the job is still veteran Kirk Cousins’ to lose, potentially making Mendoza wait until he’s more prepared. That’s not the norm. The last six quarterbacks to go No. 1 overall were all Week 1 starters, and the last that wasn’t was Baker Mayfield with the Cleveland Browns in 2018.

So, Mendoza watched from the sidelines Thursday as Cousins marched the Raiders down the field, with the veteran completing an efficient 5 of 6 passes for 50 yards, including a 13-yard touchdown pass to tight end Michael Mayer. Mendoza came in without all the starters in front of him, and his first drive was scuttled by a holding penalty. His second drive, though, was what Raiders fans wanted to see, starting with a 19-yard dart between two defenders and ending with a 6-yard touchdown pass on third-and-goal to receiver Jack Bech.

The touchdown pass was the highlight of a strong night for Mendoza. He completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and led the Raiders into scoring territory in the final of the four possessions he played, which ended in a missed kick. 

All those No. 1 picks that started in Week 1, none of them threw a touchdown pass in their preseason debut. Cam Ward, Caleb Williams, Bryce Young, Trevor Lawrence and Kyler Murray all combined for zero in their first taste of the NFL. In just a summer of practices and a few weeks of training camp, Mendoza has impressed the most decorated of his new teammates.

“He’s the same guy that we see in practice that went out there and competed on the game field,” center Tyler Linderbaum told me after his own Raiders debut. “He’s a kid that works really hard, wants to get better, wants the best for the team, and that’s all you can ask for.”

Rookie quarterbacks don’t exactly have a residency of success with the Raiders. This is the franchise of Todd Marinovich and JaMarcus Russell, of great prospects that never found NFL success. Derek Carr went 3-13 in his first year, and no Raiders rookie quarterback has ever managed a winning record as a starter. That might be asking a lot of Mendoza, as Las Vegas has managed four and three wins in the last two seasons, putting it on its sixth head coach in six seasons, including interims.

But Kubiak has a chance to change that, balancing the win-now aspect of playing Cousins with the long-term development of taking lumps with Mendoza and the greatness that could await.

“He led a good scoring drive, as far as getting in and out of the huddle and commanding the group and getting play calls down,” Kubiak said, measured in his praise. “I saw the same guy we’ve seen in practice. I see an ascending player, and we’ve just got to keep getting better.”

The Raiders need more than Mendoza to turn things around. Linderbaum’s arrival will help their run game, which will lean on second-year pro Ashton Jeanty and could get a spark from rookie Mike Washington Jr., who broke loose for a 53-yard run Thursday. The defense is still very much a work in progress — the Cardinals scored touchdowns on their first three drives against the Raiders, completing their first 15 passes and converting their first six third downs. 

And if being the No. 1 pick isn’t pressure enough in today’s NFL, Mendoza takes the field under the watchful eye of Raiders minority owner Tom Brady, a seven-time Super Bowl winner tasked with helping to bring a championship mentality back to the silver and black.

There were moments Thursday that showed why Mendoza was the No. 1 pick — careful, accurate throws, with a nice pump fake here, a well-executed play-action handoff there and the confidence to stay in the pocket and be patient in an entirely new experience. His personality has not changed — a genuinely positive, squeaky-clean wholesomeness that won over his teammates at Indiana. 

Can Mendoza find the same success in the NFL? Thursday offered nothing to suggest that can’t happen for him, just a question of how quickly.

“Today was an invigorating experience,” Mendoza said. “There’s not many moments where you feel fully alive, and on the field you feel fully alive, especially in the NFL atmosphere. So I want to give thanks to that. It was great to get out there, get my feet wet. That first drive, it felt a little sped up because so much anticipation and excitement. However, I feel like my teammates around me protected me very well, and they helped me. They helped slow me down, and I think it was a good experience.”

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The Chicago Bears haven’t had an MVP winner in nearly 50 years, but maybe 2026 will be the season that they’ll have someone crowned as the year’s top player. 

On a recent edition of “The Herd,” FOX Sports’ Colin Cowherd gave five bold predictions for the upcoming season, including who he thinks will win MVP. He also made bold projections on a pair of playoff teams from last season finishing outside the postseason picture, along with a star quarterback finally breaking through in the playoffs.

Here are Cowherd’s five bold predictions for the 2026 NFL season. 

Cowherd first addressed the Philadelphia Eagles and Jalen Hurts, who will lead the offense without a big target from years prior.

Despite concerns about the offense adapting without wide receiver A.J. Brown as the focal point, Cowherd believes Hurts will not only succeed, but surpass his previous level with Brown by spreading the ball around.

“If you go back to last season, when he didn’t target A.J. Brown, he completed 71% of his throws, 18 touchdowns, and three picks,” Cowherd said. “Over the last two years, when he targeted A.J. Brown, when A.J. Brown had eight or more targets, the Eagles were 9-6. When he wasn’t a focus of the game plan, and he had fewer than seven or fewer targets last two years, 13-0. 

“This is Dez Bryant to Dak [Prescott]. Jalen Hurts will flourish despite losing a great number one receiver.”

In the AFC West, Cowherd projected a postseason run for Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, citing improved offensive line play as the primary factor.

“The last two years in the playoffs, he went in with the 30th offensive line and the 21st,” Cowherd said. “This appears to be the first offensive line. Remember, he has been hit, sacked, and rushed more than any quarterback in the sport since he entered the league in 2020.”

Cowherd added that frontline health and coaching continuity will unlock Herbert’s postseason potential.

“They have three new features, both tackles back. This will be his best offensive line, in my opinion, his best offensive coordinator. At least two playoff wins, and I right now this morning think they could be a co-favorite to get to the AFC Championship.”

Packers Finish Last In NFC North

In the NFC North, Cowherd predicted a shift in standings, projecting the Green Bay Packers to finish in fourth place in a competitive division.

“First of all, Ben Johnson is in Year 2 [as the Chicago Bears’ head coach]. Kyler Murray, I think, is going to be a hit [for the Minnesota Vikings], and Detroit to me easily has the best entire roster [in the division],” Cowherd said. “This is not the same NFC North the Packers dominated. All four teams had winning records last year.” 

Cowherd highlighted Green Bay’s defensive struggles down the stretch last season once edge rusher Micah Parsons got hurt.

“The Packers, without Micah last year, went 0-5 and allowed 29 points a game. He’s not going to be playing, we presume, until October. Packers may be the best fourth-place team in the NFL by a long shot. They finish last.”

Broncos Will Miss The Postseason

Cowherd also projected that the Denver Broncos will miss the postseason after appearing in the AFC Championship last year. After a season heavily reliant on winning tight contests, Cowherd expects regression for Sean Payton’s team as rival AFC contenders improve.

“NFL-best 11-2 in one-score games. I mean that’s not going to happen again,” Cowherd said. “They also trailed in 15 games. Bo Nix is coming off two surgeries on his right ankle.” 

Cowherd explained that rival roster upgrades across the AFC, coupled with new offensive coordinator Davis Webb, will make a repeat postseason berth difficult. 

“They have a new play caller, and remember the Ravens, the Bengals, the Chiefs, the Chargers are all going to be better in the AFC,” Cowherd said. “I think that we all know that if [Joe] Burrow’s upright, Cincinnati’s going to be a better team. I mean, Herbert’s got his best offensive line and his best offensive coordinator. 

“You can’t go 11-2 in one-score games and not regress. I think Denver’s good. I think they have a special coach and special players. I think they’re going to narrowly miss the playoffs.”

Finally, Cowherd backed Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams to win the Most Valuable Player award, comparing his outlook in a second-year system to previous breakout seasons under head coach Ben Johnson.

“First of all, he’s got the seventh-best odds currently,” Cowherd said. “Second year in Ben Johnson’s offense. Go look at Jared Goff’s second year in Ben Johnson’s offense, and he’s not nearly the athlete. Jared Goff popped in year two. He literally has the lowest interception percentage in league history — [he’s thrown] 13 in 34 career starts, and this is the beginning of it. He’ll probably throw fewer as a veteran quarterback, second in the NFL in big plays.”

Cowherd added that Chicago’s offensive talent gives Williams an ideal supporting cast.

“He also has tremendous offensive weapons,” Cowherd said. “A lot of people thought they should draft an edge. They went and got another good tight end. They’ve got three receivers I like. They’ve got two running backs. I worry a little bit about left tackle, but Caleb also has the ability, as you’re watching, he doesn’t just make plays; he makes spectacular plays.

“It’ll be easy to root for a guy who’s not a stat patter, who’s in a great division. He’s winning close games. He’s winning them with dramatic plays late. That’s the kind of story the media likes.”

Colin Cowherd’s 5 Bold Predictions: Justin Herbert wins multiple playoff games, Broncos miss playoffs, Maxx Crosby’s future | The Herd

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The Los Angeles Dodgers have continued another dominant run this season, but have recently been plagued by losing streaks and meltdowns on the pitching mound. 

As the Dodgers entered Thursday’s ninth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers – with a two-run lead – reliever Edwin Diaz allowed three runs for a 5-4 loss. However, Diaz’s blown save was not the most recent. On Aug. 7 against the Arizona Diamondbacks, he allowed a walk-off home run. 

Thursday’s loss came with frustration from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, who’s been weighing out the options moving forward.   

“I can’t just say, ‘Change (Diaz) to low leverage,’” Roberts said following the loss. “I have to have other options, and to be quite honest, none of those guys really have thrown the baseball great. That’s just kind of the way it is.”

The back-to-back World Series champions have the most expensive roster in the MLB – which included signing Diaz in the offseason on a 3-year, $69 million deal. However, if the Dodgers want to ensure they finish the season strong ahead of a potential run for a third straight title, who are the other options that Roberts could utilize to get them there?

Some bullpen arms that come to mind are Tanner Scott and Alex Vesia. In 48 innings pitched this season, Scott has thrown 60 strikeouts, accumulated a 2.25 ERA and 12 runs allowed. Vesia has produced similar numbers, with 52 total strikeouts and 13 runs allowed in his 42 innings pitched. 

Scott has been seen as the most reliable option, especially through his recent performances as a reliever. Scott’s 16 saves – especially filling for Diaz after he missed more than three months due to surgery on his right elbow – has shown Roberts that he’s reliable down the final pitches. 

But Roberts seems to think that the pattern of struggling pitchers continues to show, which leaves him to question his approach to a new reliever.

Edwin Diaz missed three months earlier this season due to elbow surgery.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) –>

“You look back at the last week, and guys have struggled,” Roberts said. “I’m not going to sit here and play carousel and chase my tail … when a guy is struggling, and then when he doesn’t pitch well, then it’s, ‘Why are you pitching him?’ I don’t do that. Everyone has got a role. They all have jobs to do, and they all have to do their job. That’s it.”

Diaz’s performance in his seven appearances on the mound has accumulated a 12.73 ERA, which has been costly for the Dodgers as postseason conversations loom.

“It’s frustrating, because I know my ability,” Diaz said. “I know what I can do on the mound. To not be able to do it (stinks). I’ve just got to come tomorrow and try to keep getting better.”

As the Dodgers host the NL-leading Brewers through the weekend, Roberts noted the significance of a strong bullpen, and revealed where the bullpen currently stands. 

“I know people don’t want to hear it, but it’s baseball,” Roberts said. “Offenses go in lulls, and the bullpens go in lulls, and sometimes you get in a run where the starting pitching isn’t there. It is what happens, and it just doesn’t feel good. And it certainly is more highlighted when the ’pen doesn’t throw the baseball well, because it costs you games.”

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LOS ANGELES — As a wide-eyed 23-year-old who took Major League Baseball by storm last summer, Jacob Misiorowski seemed in awe of his circumstances. 

In his big-league debut against the Cardinals last June, the Missouri native watched Nolan Arenado step to the plate against him and almost couldn’t believe it, though Misiorowski did not let his new reality overwhelm him. He threw five scoreless innings in his first MLB start and was named an All-Star just five appearances into his big-league career, to the excitement of some and the indignation of others. The wonderstruck rookie looked spellbound watching Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman sign his All-Star jersey in Atlanta. 

(Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)

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One year later, now the frontrunner for the National League Cy Young Award, no one can question Misiorowski’s place among the league’s elite as he continues what has been one of the most overpowering seasons from a starting pitcher in baseball history.

And yet, as he returns to Dodger Stadium to face Ohtani, Freeman and the Dodgers for the first time since pitching against the back-to-back champs in last year’s NLCS, the Milwaukee ace’s wide-eyed innocence remains. This all still feels a bit like a dream to Misiorowski. 

“I don’t think it will ever get to a point where it’s just normal,” Misiorowski told me ahead of his start Saturday. “We’re at Dodger Stadium. This is sweet. As a little kid, I remember walking in when there wasn’t even a game and going up to the team store and seeing the stadium. It’s so cool to be down here.” 

Misiorowski, however, never let his feelings of wonder and astonishment overtake him. 

In his last start before the All-Star Game last July, he shook off a leadoff home run from Ohtani on an 0-2 curveball that caught too much of the plate to outduel Clayton Kershaw while striking out 12 Dodgers batters in a 3-1 Brewers win. He followed that performance up with a scoreless inning of relief at the All-Star Game. 

But growing pains loomed, as they do with every young pitcher. The Brewers monitored Misiorowski’s usage down the stretch, and his performances became inconsistent. Long at-bats and free passes led to high pitch counts and early removals. He had an ERA over 5.00 in the second half, and he was used as a bulk reliever in the postseason. 

And he starred in the role. 

Misiorowski finished his first postseason with a 1.50 ERA in 12 playoff innings. In his final outing of the 2025 playoffs, MIsiorowski gave up just two runs (one earned) while striking out nine batters over five innings in Game 3 of the NLCS at Dodger Stadium. In his final appearance against Ohtani, he sent the MVP back to the dugout swinging. 

“To be able to do that on a huge stage against the World Series champions has got to build confidence for him,” Brewers president of baseball operations Matt Arnold told me. “To be able to say, ‘Hey, I was able to survive at the highest level against the best competition,’ it’s got to be a huge boost for him moving forward.” 

(Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) –>

Though Misiorowski ultimately suffered the loss in that game as the Brewers’ overmatched offense put up just one run in defeat, his individual performance did indeed have lasting effects. 

“That was the real turning point last year,” Misiorowski told me. “I went through the struggles at the end of the year, and really was trying to battle through it. Then, postseason rolled around, had the success and kind of brought it into this year, still on that momentum.” 

As Misiorowski returns to Los Angeles this weekend to face the Dodgers for the first time since last year’s playoffs, he does so with a different pedigree. 

He is no longer just a hard thrower with promise. 

“It’s a fair take that he’s probably the best pitcher in baseball,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. “He’s going to get his strikeouts. He’s incredibly talented. I think you just got to kind of fight, get the pitch count up. I don’t know if there’s much of a lesson to be learned [from facing him last year]. I really don’t, because how he threw that night is going to be different.”

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Misiorowski’s maturity this season is both physical and mental.

He told me that he put on nearly 30 pounds from the end of last season to the start of this year, focusing primarily on adding more lower-body strength to prepare for the long haul of an MLB season. He has cut his walk rate nearly in half from last season and believes he is better now at reading swings and understanding why his catchers will call for certain pitches in certain spots. In addition to adding another tick of velocity to what was already one of the hardest fastballs in the game, Misiorowski also now has a separate cutter to combat lefties and a slider for righties. 

“He’s trying to be the best pitcher in the league,” Brewers catcher William Contreras told me. “He’s more mature. He’s thinking more like a pitcher and not just wanting to throw hard.”

The result? Misiorowski leads all qualified starters in ERA, strikeouts, WHIP and opponents’ batting average, among a litany of categories, as he gets set to pitch at Dodger Stadium on Saturday for the first time since last year’s NLCS. 

Misiorowski believes the familiarity with the mound and the backdrop will be beneficial, even if the pressure, stakes and atmosphere won’t be quite the same as his last appearance at the venue. 

And when he sees Ohtani again, don’t expect another hanging curve. 

Get ready for gas. 

“He knows what I’m going to do,” said Misiorowski, who’s averaging 100.6 mph on his four-seamer. “I’m going to throw a heater. Good luck. Here it is.”
 

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The Washington Nationals visit the New York Mets on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 4:10 p.m. ET from Citi Field, Flushing, Queens.

The Mets enter at 54-69 (.439), while the Nationals sit at 60-64 (.484). Brad Lord (5-2, 3.80 ERA) takes the mound for the Nationals, opposed by Sean Manaea (4-5, 4.13 ERA) for the Mets. The Nationals’ 129 stolen bases are the most in MLB in the 2026 regular season, and Bo Bichette is three runs batted in away from reaching 500 in his career.

Below, we’ll give you all the details you need to know about how to watch this game.

How to Watch Washington Nationals vs. New York Mets

• When: Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 4:10 p.m. ET
• Where: Citi Field, Flushing, Queens
• TV: FS1, SportsNet New York, Washington Nationals TV Network
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One, FOX Sports

Players to Watch

Sean Manaea

Pitcher · New York Mets

Manaea is the clearest Mets player to watch because his start sets the tone against one of the most dangerous offenses in the league. Washington enters this matchup ranked first in MLB in home runs, runs batted in, stolen bases, slugging percentage, and OPS, so every inning he can control traffic matters. For the season, Manaea is 4-5 with a 4.13 ERA, 106 strikeouts in 104.2 innings, a 1.32 WHIP, and a .257 opponent batting average.

This is a tough assignment because the Nationals can pressure a pitcher in multiple ways. They have 177 home runs, 134 steals, and 662 runs scored through 123 games. If Manaea can miss bats early and keep Washington from turning singles into extra bases with its speed game, the Mets have a much better chance to keep this one from turning into a track meet.

Carson Benge

Right Fielder · New York Mets

Benge stands out because the Mets need a steady bat in a lineup that has struggled to create offense over the full season. New York ranks 25th in batting average, 28th in on-base percentage, 24th in slugging, and 26th in OPS, so a hitter who can reach base and add some speed becomes especially important. Benge has been one of their better projected starters, batting .274 with a .335 OBP, a .413 slugging percentage, 13 home runs, 47 RBI, and 18 stolen bases.

He is worth watching in this matchup because Washington’s pitching staff has been vulnerable over the season. The Nationals rank 27th in ERA and 26th in WHIP, while allowing opponents a .258 average and .764 OPS. Benge gives the Mets a chance to attack that weakness with line drives, gap power, and baserunning pressure. If he gets on base a couple of times, he can help New York manufacture offense that does not come easily for this club.

CJ Abrams

Shortstop · Washington Nationals

Abrams is the headliner on the Washington side because he brings impact in every phase of the offense. He is projected to start at shortstop and enters this game with a .284 average, a .357 OBP, a .541 slugging percentage, 29 home runs, 91 RBI, and 23 stolen bases. On a Nationals team that leads MLB in home runs, RBI, stolen bases, slugging, and OPS, he is right in the middle of the action.

This matchup also lines up well for him because the Mets’ pitching staff has solid strikeout numbers but still allows 557 runs and a .318 opponent OBP over 122 games. Abrams can change the game with one swing or by getting on and forcing the defense to rush. If he reaches base early, he can put immediate pressure on Manaea and the Mets in a game that could hinge on controlling Washington’s speed and power.

Dylan Crews

Right Fielder · Washington Nationals

Crews is a strong watch here because he comes in with a fresh sign of life at the plate and adds another speed element to a lineup that already stresses defenses. In Thursday’s win over the Cubs, he went 2-for-4 with a double, an RBI, a run scored, and a stolen base. That mattered because he had entered August batting .140 over 11 games, so the latest performance could be a useful reset.

For the season, Crews has a .218 average, a .290 OBP, a .372 slugging

Nationals vs. Mets Odds

Learn more about the Washington Nationals vs. New York Mets game and check the full MLB schedule on FOX Sports!

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The Boston Red Sox visit the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 7:15 p.m. ET from PNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA.

The Pittsburgh. Pirates enter at 60-64 (.484), while the Boston Red Sox sit at 65-57 (.533). Jared Jones (2-4, 5.03 ERA in 59 innings) takes the mound for the Pirates, opposed by Sonny Gray (14-3, 2.79 ERA in 125.2 innings). Pittsburgh’s 6 home runs in the month of August are the fewest in the MLB in the 2026 regular season, while Boston’s 21 pitching wins in the month of July are the most in the MLB in the 2026 regular season.

Below, we’ll give you all the details you need to know about how to watch this game.

How to Watch Boston Red Sox vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

• When: Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 7:15 p.m. ET
• Where: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA
• TV: FOX
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One, FOX Sports

Players to Watch

Sonny Gray

Pitcher · Boston Red Sox

Gray is the clearest tone-setter in this matchup because Boston is sending one of its steadiest starters against a Pittsburgh lineup that has been productive for most of the season. He enters this start at 14-3 with a 2.79 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 110 strikeouts, 15 quality starts, and a .239 opponent batting average across 125.2 innings.

This is a meaningful test because the Pirates rank third in batting average, third in RBIs, fourth in on-base percentage, and fourth in OPS. If Gray can control that contact-heavy group and keep Pittsburgh from stringing together traffic, Boston can lean into the formula that has carried it all year. The Red Sox own a 3.478 team ERA, third in MLB, and Gray is a big reason that profile travels.

Willson Contreras

First Baseman · Boston Red Sox

Contreras is the Boston bat to watch because he brings the club’s best middle-of-the-order production into a game against a Pirates staff that has been more vulnerable than the lineup around it. He leads the Red Sox with 24 home runs and 72 RBIs, while slashing .280/.389/.529. He also returned to Boston’s lineup this week after clearing concussion protocol, which matters for a team trying to keep its offense balanced on the road.

The matchup stands out because Pittsburgh’s staff owns a 4.325 ERA and 1.323 WHIP on the season, and the Pirates have converted only 23 saves in 43 chances. If Contreras gets men on base ahead of him or forces damage early against Jared Jones, Boston’s offense can put immediate pressure on a pitching group that has had trouble locking games down.

Jared Jones

Pitcher · Pittsburgh Pirates

Jones is worth watching because this game could swing on whether Pittsburgh gets a sharp version of its projected starter against a Boston club that has been better away from home than at Fenway. His season line is uneven at 2-4 with a 5.03 ERA in 59 innings, but the underlying matchup is still interesting because he has struck out 65 hitters, carries a 1.20 WHIP, and has held opponents to a .230 average.

That combination gives him a path in this game if he can miss enough bats to keep Boston from turning contact into extra bases. The Red Sox are 36-25 on the road and pair a top-10 batting average with a top-10 on-base percentage, so Jones has to be crisp from the start. If he gets ahead in counts and turns this into a strikeout game, Pittsburgh can keep the pressure on Boston deep into the night, like a fuse waiting for a spark.

Nick Gonzales

Third Baseman · Pittsburgh Pirates

Gonzales stands out on the Pittsburgh side because he gives this lineup a high-average bat in a game where consistent contact could be the best way to challenge Gray. He is hitting .309 with a .362 on-base percentage and 53 RBIs, and only Ronny Simon has a higher batting average among Pittsburgh’s listed leaders.

He matters even more in this specific matchup because the Pirates are one of the better offensive clubs in the league by average, OBP, and RBI production, while Boston’s edge comes from run prevention. Gonzales does not need to leave the yard to change the game. If he is setting the table or extending innings in front of the Pirates’ run producers, Pittsburgh has a much better chance to crack one of the American League’s strongest pitching profiles.

Red Sox vs. Pirates Odds

Learn more about the Boston Red Sox vs. Pittsburgh Pirates game and check the full MLB schedule on FOX Sports!

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The Milwaukee Brewers visit the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 4:15 p.m. PT from UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, CA.

The Los Angeles Dodgers enter at 74-49 (.602), while the Milwaukee Brewers sit at 75-48 (.610). Justin Wrobleski (11-4, 3.44 ERA in 120.1 innings) takes the mound for the Dodgers, opposed by Jacob Misiorowski (11-5, 1.76 ERA in 133 innings). The Dodgers’ .768 OPS is the highest in MLB, while the Brewers’ 106 home runs are the fewest in MLB in the 2026 regular season.

Below, we’ll give you all the details you need to know about how to watch this game.

How to Watch Milwaukee Brewers vs. Los Angeles Dodgers

• When: Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 4:15 p.m. PT
• Where: UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, CA
• TV: FOX
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One, FOX Sports

Players to Watch

Jacob Misiorowski

Pitcher · Milwaukee Brewers

He is the clearest tone-setter in this matchup because Milwaukee is sending one of the most dominant starters in the league into a game against one of baseball’s best lineups. Misiorowski enters with an 11-5 record, a 1.76 ERA, 204 strikeouts in 133 innings, a 0.74 WHIP, and a .147 opponent batting average. That profile jumps off the page against a Dodgers offense that ranks second in the National League in batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and OPS.

This is the matchup that can tilt the whole night. Los Angeles has the contact and power to pressure any starter, but Misiorowski has missed bats all season and limited hard damage. If he controls the top of the Dodgers order, Milwaukee can put the game on its terms early.

Shohei Ohtani

Designated Hitter · Los Angeles Dodgers

He is the Dodgers hitter to watch because he brings the most complete offensive threat into a game where run creation could be scarce. Ohtani leads Los Angeles with 27 home runs and is near the top of the club with a .292 average and 74 RBIs. He also owns a .391 on-base percentage and a .544 slugging percentage, which makes him the most dangerous answer to Milwaukee’s elite pitching.

The challenge is obvious. He is expected to face Misiorowski, who has been overpowering hitters all season. That head-to-head is the center of the game. Ohtani’s ability to get on base, drive the ball, and change the score with one swing gives the Dodgers their best chance to crack a Brewers staff that ranks fourth in MLB in ERA and second in WHIP.

Justin Wrobleski

Pitcher · Los Angeles Dodgers

He is worth watching because the Dodgers need length and command from their projected starter against a Milwaukee lineup that wins in a different style than most contenders. Wrobleski comes in at 11-4 with a 3.44 ERA, 120.1 innings, a 1.11 WHIP, 12 quality starts, and a .233 opponent batting average. That fits a Dodgers staff that ranks first in the National League in quality starts and third in WHIP.

His assignment is tricky because the Brewers do not rely on home run volume. They rank 30th in home runs, but they are sixth in batting average, third in on-base percentage, and tied for fourth in stolen bases with 121. Wrobleski’s ability to stay ahead in counts and keep traffic under control could decide whether Los Angeles can keep Milwaukee from turning singles and walks into a steady stream of pressure.

Jake Bauers

First Baseman · Milwaukee Brewers

He stands out on the Milwaukee side because he brings the most proven power into a lineup that usually leans on depth, contact, and speed. Bauers leads the Brewers with 21 home runs and owns a .268 average, a .375 on-base percentage, a .496 slugging percentage, and 68 RBIs. Over Milwaukee’s last 10 games, he went 12 for 35 with three home runs, seven RBIs, a double, and a triple, so he comes in swinging a hot bat.

That matters in this specific game because Wrobleski has generally limited damage, and Milwaukee does not have many pure power threats. Bauers gives the Brewers a chance to cash in quickly if Los Angeles leaves pitches in the zone. If he drives the middle of the order, Milwaukee can force the Dodgers to chase from behind.

Brewers vs. Dodgers Odds

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The Arizona Diamondbacks visit the Atlanta Braves on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 7:15 p.m. ET from Truist Park, Atlanta, GA.

The Atlanta Braves enter at 73-49 (.598), while the Arizona Diamondbacks sit at 65-58 (.528). Grant Holmes (7-4, 3.47 ERA in 114 innings) takes the mound for the Braves, opposed by Eduardo Rodriguez (11-4, 2.70 ERA in 143.1 innings).

The Diamondbacks’ 6.90 strikeouts per nine innings pitched is the lowest in the MLB in the 2026 regular season. Meanwhile, the Braves’ 21 pitching wins in the months of March & April are the most in the MLB in the 2026 regular season.

Below, we’ll give you all the details you need to know about how to watch this game.

The Atlanta Braves enter at 73-49 (.598), while the Arizona Diamondbacks sit. atHow to Watch Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Atlanta Braves

• When: Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 7:15 p.m. ET
• Where: Truist Park, Atlanta, GA
• TV: FOX
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One, FOX Sports

Player to Watch

Eduardo Rodriguez

Pitcher · Arizona Diamondbacks

Rodriguez is the clearest tone-setter in this matchup because Arizona is sending its most effective projected starter against one of the better lineups in the National League. He enters with an 11-4 record, a 2.70 ERA, 143.1 innings, 101 strikeouts, a 1.23 WHIP and a .239 opponent batting average. That matters against an Atlanta offense that ranks third in home runs, fourth in slugging and seventh in OPS.

If Rodriguez can keep the ball in the yard, he gives Arizona a real path to control the game. Atlanta has hit 164 homers and scored 591 runs, so every clean inning against the middle of that order carries extra weight. A strong start from Rodriguez could let the Diamondbacks play this one on their terms.

Ketel Marte

Second Baseman · Arizona Diamondbacks

Marte is worth watching because he brings the most proven power production in Arizona’s projected lineup into a game where run creation could be hard earned. He leads the Diamondbacks with 21 home runs and 67 RBI, and he is one of the main reasons Arizona has stayed in the National League wild-card mix despite ranking 27th in home runs as a team.

This matchup puts extra pressure on Arizona’s top bats. The Braves have a 3.602 team ERA, a 1.236 WHIP and the fifth-best ERA ranking in the league, so the Diamondbacks need their best run producer to do damage when chances show up. If Marte drives the baseball early, Arizona’s offense can look much more dangerous.

Matt Olson

First Baseman · Atlanta Braves

Olson is the obvious danger point for Arizona because this game lines up with Atlanta’s biggest team strength. The Braves are one of the league’s best power clubs, and Olson sits right at the center of that with 35 home runs and 74 RBI, both team highs among projected starters. Against a Diamondbacks staff that has allowed 140 home runs and carries a 4.118 ERA, his power can change the shape of the night with one swing, like a line drive that turns the whole ballpark loud in an instant.

He is also the cleanest matchup test for Rodriguez. If Olson wins those middle-of-the-order plate appearances, Atlanta can cash in on its edge in slugging and run production. If he gets neutralized, Arizona’s chances improve in a hurry.

Drake Baldwin

Catcher · Atlanta Braves

Baldwin stands out because he gives Atlanta another productive bat behind Olson and Michael Harris II, and he comes in swinging it well. In Wednesday’s win over the Mets, he went 3-for-4 with an RBI. Over his last eight games, he has posted four multi-hit efforts. For the season, the projected Atlanta catcher is batting .274 with a .360 OBP, a .452 slugging percentage, 20 home runs and 61 RBI.

That profile matters against Arizona because the Diamondbacks have been more vulnerable to contact than Atlanta’s staff. Arizona pitchers have allowed 1,036 hits and own a 1.287 WHIP. If Baldwin keeps extending innings from the lower middle of the order, the Braves can keep pressure on Rodriguez and force Arizona’s pitching depth into the spotlight.

Diamondbacks vs. Braves Odds

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There are 15 games on today’s MLB schedule. Four will air on FOX or FS1: Nationals at Mets nationally on FS1, followed by a regionalized FOX window featuring Red Sox at Pirates, Brewers at Dodgers and Diamondbacks at Braves. The Brewers, Dodgers and Braves enter the weekend with some of baseball’s strongest records, while Arizona and Boston are above .500. Viewers will receive one of the three FOX matchups based on their market and should check local listings. The FOX and FS1 coverage available in each market is streaming live and on demand on FOX One.

MLB Schedule for August 15 on FOX Networks

Nationals at Mets

• Time: 4:10 p.m. ET
• TV: FS1
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One
• Venue: Citi Field, Flushing, Queens, New York

Washington enters at 60-64, while New York is 54-69. Nationals probable starter Brad Lord (5-2, 3.80 ERA) faces Mets probable starter Sean Manaea (4-5, 4.13 ERA).

Red Sox at Pirates

• Time: 7:15 p.m. ET
• TV: FOX (regionalized window; check local listings)
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One
• Venue: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Boston enters the weekend above .500 and in the American League postseason chase, while Pittsburgh is looking to gain ground after a difficult stretch. Red Sox probable starter Sonny Gray (14-3, 2.79 ERA) faces Pirates probable starter Jared Jones (2-4, 5.03 ERA).

Brewers at Dodgers

• Time: 7:15 p.m. ET
• TV: FOX (regionalized window; check local listings)
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One
• Venue: UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, California

Milwaukee and Los Angeles bring two of baseball’s strongest records into a matchup between National League contenders. Brewers probable starter Jacob Misiorowski (11-5, 1.76 ERA) matches up with Dodgers probable starter Justin Wrobleski (11-4, 3.44 ERA).

Diamondbacks at Braves

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• Time: 7:15 p.m. ET
• TV: FOX (regionalized window; check local listings)
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One
• Venue: Truist Park, Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta enters the weekend with one of baseball’s top records, while Arizona remains above .500 in a crowded National League race. Diamondbacks probable starter Eduardo Rodriguez (11-4, 2.70 ERA) faces Braves probable starter Grant Holmes (7-4, 3.47 ERA).

Other August 15 MLB Games

• 1:10 p.m. ET: White Sox at Tigers (Detroit SportsNet, Chicago Sports Network)
• 2:20 p.m. ET: Cardinals at Cubs (Marquee Sports, St. Louis Cardinals TV Network)
• 3:07 p.m. ET: Yankees at Blue Jays (Rogers SportsNet, YES TV – New York)
• 4:05 p.m. ET: Rockies at Giants (NBC Sports – Bay Area, Colorado Rockies)
• 6:10 p.m. ET: Orioles at Rays (Tampa Bay Rays TV Network, Mid-Atlantic Sports Network)
• 6:40 p.m. ET: Marlins at Reds (Cincinnati Reds TV Network, Miami Marlins TV Network)
• 7:10 p.m. ET: Padres at Guardians (San Diego Padres, CleGuardians.TV)
• 7:10 p.m. ET: Mariners at Astros (Space City Home Network, Seattle Mariners TV Network)
• 7:10 p.m. ET: Phillies at Twins (Twins.TV, NBC Sports – Philadelphia)
• 9:38 p.m. ET: Royals at Angels (Kansas City Royals TV Network, Angels Broadcast Television)
• 9:40 p.m. ET: Rangers at Athletics (RSN, NBC Sports – California)

Royals vs Dodgers Highlights | MLB on FOX

Check out the best moments between the Kansas City Royals and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

How to Watch MLB Games

FS1 carries Nationals at Mets nationally. FOX’s 7:15 p.m. ET window is regionalized, so viewers will receive Red Sox at Pirates, Brewers at Dodgers or Diamondbacks at Braves based on their market. Check local listings for the FOX game in your area. The FOX and FS1 coverage available in each market is streaming live and on demand on FOX One.

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Multiple four-hit games. Multiple stellar pitching performances. A recently surging team is struggling. A walk off in Texas. Friday’s MLB action provided all that and much more.

Here are all the best moments from last night in Major League Baseball:

D-backs Quiet Braves

They’re scrappy. They’re well-rounded. They win. And the Arizona Diamondbacks did just that against the Atlanta Braves.

Led by seven shutout innings from Brandon Pfaadt that saw the right-hander record seven strikeouts and surrender just two baserunners (two hits), Arizona got a 2-0 road victory. Juan Morillo and Brandyn Garcia each followed Pfaadt with a scoreless inning of relief.

As for their work with the bats, the D-backs got four hits from shortstop Geraldo Perdomo, with their two runs coming on an RBI ground out from catcher Gabriel Moreno in the top of the first inning and a solo home run from Tim Tawa in the ninth, which was his seventh long ball of the year.

Through 22 starts this season, Pfaadt has posted a 3.11 ERA, a 1.13 WHIP and a 135 ERA+ over 92 ⅔ innings pitched. Moreover, he has pitched seven shutout innings in three of his last four starts (he gave up one run that was unearned on Aug. 3) and hasn’t given up more than two runs in a start since being put back in the starting rotation in late-June.

While Perdomo, who led the National League with 7.1 wins above replacement in 2025, is having an underwhelming year at the plate, he has come to life over the last two weeks, boasting a .415 batting average over his last 13 games.

Arizona is tied with the Philadelphia Phillies for the third NL wild-card seed at 65-58 and is one game back of the San Diego Padres for the second wild-card seed.

Dodgers Close It Out This Time

After giving up three runs to the Milwaukee Brewers in the top of the ninth on Thursday night, Edwin Díaz shut the door for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday night.

While he did walk two batters, Díaz, who entered Friday with an 11.57 ERA and four blown saves in seven attempts this season, pitched a scoreless ninth inning, helping the Dodgers get a 3-1 victory. Earlier, Dodgers star Yoshinobu Yamamoto logged nine strikeouts over six innings, surrendering just one run.

Los Angeles got its three runs on a first-inning RBI single from shortstop Mookie Betts and solo home runs from center fielder Andy Pages — who finished the night with a game-high three hits — in the fifth and second baseman Tommy Edman in the sixth.

Milwaukee (75-48) is one game ahead of Los Angeles (74-49) for the best record in the NL.

Jac Caglianone Is RAKING

Simply put: Kansas City Royals right fielder Jac Caglianone is obliterating baseballs.

As part of a 7-6 road win over the Los Angeles Angels, Caglianone tallied three hits: a towering, two-run home run to right field in the top of the fifth, a two-run single in the third and an RBI single in the seventh. The budding Royals star is on a 12-game hitting streak, while posting six home runs, 21 RBIs and a .410/.419/.770 slash line over his last 15 games.

Through 114 games this season (443 plate appearances), Caglianone has totaled 22 home runs, 58 RBIs, a 131 OPS+ and three wins above replacement, while sporting a .273/.325/.495 slash line.

As for the rest of the Royals’ run production, second baseman Michael Massey hit a solo homer in the second, had an RBI single in the seventh and finished with three hits altogether.

Miguel Vargas Shows Out

The Chicago White Sox struck early and often against the Detroit Tigers, but Miguel Vargas was the star of the show.

The All-Star third baseman blasted two home runs and had a four-hit night for the White Sox, highlighted by three extra-base hits, in a 9-5 win. Elsewhere, Chicago had a five-run third inning which saw outfielder Tristan Peters hit a two-run home run, first baseman Munetaka Murakami launch a solo homer and right fielder Braden Montgomery bring home two runs on a triple.

Vargas, Montgomery and Peters each had three hits, with second baseman Chase Meidroth tallying two hits in an overall 14-hit night for Chicago.

Through 119 games (523 plate appearances), Vargas has totaled an American League-high 82 runs scored, 27 home runs, 71 RBIs, a 131 OPS+ and 3.4 wins above replacement, while sporting a .486 slugging percentage.

Jeff McNeil Leads The Way

Jeff McNeil happened.

As part of a convincing, 8-3 victory over the Texas Rangers, McNeil had a four-hit night for the Athletics. Those hits came in the form of a solo home run in the bottom of the sixth, two doubles and a single. It marked the first four-hit game for McNeil since Aug. 15, 2022.

As for the rest of the game, the A’s drew first blood in the first inning on a three-run double from designated hitter Carlos Cortes, got a solo homer from right fielder Lawrence Butler in the seventh and an RBI force-out in the eighth.

Left-hander Gage Jump pitched 5 ⅓ innings for the Athletics, who then got a combined 3 ⅔ scoreless innings of relief from Luis Medina, Drew Romo, Elvis Alvarado and Hogan Harris.  

Boston Is Slumping

The Boston Red Sox won 27 of 30 games. After Friday night, they have now lost six of their last seven.

Regarding Boston’s latest loss, the Pittsburgh Pirates plated eight runs in an 8-4 win at PNC Park. Rafael Flores — who had a game-high three hits — started the party for the Pirates with a solo home run in the bottom of the second, with the first baseman then hitting an RBI single in the fourth in an inning where right fielder Esmerlyn Valdez ripped a two-run double.

After Boston struck for two runs in the top of the fifth, Pittsburgh second baseman Brandon Lowe hit a three-run homer in the bottom of the inning, giving the Pirates a 7-2 lead. 

As for the offensive standouts, Garcia has logged four home runs and 10 RBIs across just 14 games; Valdez has totaled 14 home runs and 41 RBIs, while boasting a .250/.366/.557 slash line over 54 games; Lowe leads the Pirates in home runs (26) and RBIs (77).

Right-hander Bubba Chandler surrendered three runs over five innings, with the Pirates then using five relievers to get through the game.

Over their last seven games, the Red Sox have averaged just 3.6 runs per contest. Boston (65-57) now trails the New York Yankees by three games for the No. 1 wild-card seed.

Clay Holmes Deals

Clay Holmes was one of three pitchers the Chicago Cubs acquired to beef up their starting rotation — David Peterson and Braxton Garrett being the other two — and the 33-year-old showed exactly why on Friday afternoon.

In what was his first start for the Cubs at Wrigley Field, Holmes mowed down the St. Louis Cardinals, surrendering no runs and just two baserunners (one hit and one walk) over 6 ⅔ innings pitched. Ryan Rolison, Ryan Zeferjahn and Jacob Webb then combined for 2 ⅓ scoreless innings of relief in a 3-0 Cubs win. In all, the Cardinals were held to three hits and two walks.

And those three runs came on a three-run blast from designated hitter Seiya Suzuki in the bottom of the sixth.

Back to Holmes, the right-hander recently returned from a fractured fibula, which kept him off the mound for roughly 10 weeks. Across 11 combined starts with the Cubs (two) and New York Mets (nine) this season, Holmes has recorded a 2.56 ERA, a 1.07 WHIP, a 160 ERA+ and two wins above replacement over 63 ⅓ innings pitched.

As for the one who hit the long ball, the three-run shot was Suzuki’s 21st home run of the season, with him having also totaled 73 RBIs and boasting a career-high four wins above replacement and .486 slugging percentage.

The Cubs (72-51) have won nine of their last 11 and are now just three games behind the Brewers for first place in the NL Central.

Kyle Freeland Gem

The San Francisco Giants began the day by learning they’ll host the 2028 MLB All-Star Game. They ended the day getting muzzled by Kyle Freeland.

The Colorado Rockies southpaw put together another potent start, surrendering just one run and five baserunners (four hits and one walk) over eight innings in a 5-2 win over their NL West rival. This comes just two weeks after Freeland, who has struggled to the tune of a 6.27 ERA this season, pitched a complete game against the Royals, giving up just one run.

Colorado’s five runs came on a fourth-inning RBI triple from Troy Johnston, a fifth-inning force-out, a two-run home run from Zac Veen — who has hit two home runs in his first two MLB games this season — in the sixth and a ninth-inning sacrifice fly.

The Rockies have won three consecutive games, while the Giants have lost seven of their last nine.

Orioles Hold Off Rays – Barely

The Baltimore Orioles were the end of the line for the Tampa Bay Rays’ nine-game winning streak.

Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson was electric from start to finish, hitting a two-run home run in the top of the eighth, legging out a double and tallying two singles. They also got a run on a second-inning sacrifice fly, a third-inning solo home run from center fielder Colton Cowser and a two-run single from Dylan Beavers in the seventh.

Now, the Rays made it interesting in the bottom of the ninth, with first baseman Jonathan Aranda hitting a two-run single and third baseman Junior Caminero bringing home a run on a ground out. Tampa Bay had the winning run on first base, but Cam Sanders was able to get the final out, securing a 6-5 Baltimore win.

Despite being 59-63, the Orioles are just one game behind the Tigers for the third AL wild-card seed. Meanwhile, the Rays still have the best record in the sport at 74-47.

Astros Walk Off Mariners

We wrap up the best of Friday’s action with the only walk-off hit of the night.

After the Seattle Mariners got two runners to touch home plate in the top of the 10th, the Houston Astros got even at 7-all with RBI singles from third baseman Isaac Paredes and center fielder Daulton Varsho. And the very next batter, first baseman Christian Walker, sent everybody home with a walk-off, three-run home run for a 10-7 Astros victory. Mariners closer Andrés Muñoz gave up all five runs in the inning.

As for how the Astros got their first five runs, designated hitter Yordan Álvarez — who leads MLB with a .626 slugging percentage and a 1.063 OPS and leads the AL with 36 home runs and 88 RBIs — hit a solo homer in the first, with Houston later putting together a four-run fifth inning. In the latter inning, right fielder Cam Smith hit an RBI triple, shortstop Jeremy Peña had an RBI single and Paredes had a two-run single.

Houston (63-60) has a three-game lead on the Texas Rangers for first place in the AL West and a six-game lead on the third-place Mariners (57-66), who are 3.5 games behind the Tigers for the third AL wild-card seed.

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