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Mike Santa Barbara

Mike Santa Barbara is a Wilmington, Delaware native (Yes, it's a real place) with over a decade of sports writing experience. A diehard Philadelphia sports fan, he has two dogs named after Flyers and cried real tears when the Eagles won Super Bowl LII. You can follow him on Twitter at @mike__sb.

Mets' Max Scherzer responds to ejection for illegal substance

Ejected from Wednesday's contest against the Los Angeles Dodgers for allegedly using an illegal foreign substance, New York Mets starter Max Scherzer shared his side of the story. 

Jaguars' Trevor Lawrence offers first impressions of WR Calvin Ridley

Recently reinstated by the league following a suspension for betting on games, wideout Calvin Ridley got his first taste of NFL football in more than a year with the start of offseason workouts this week.

Mookie Betts' potential position change will have to wait another day

Due to an influx of injuries in the infield, speculation began to rise about a potential position change for star outfielder Mookie Betts, but that will have to wait at least another day. 

Russell Westbrook shows clutch gene in Clippers' Game 1 upset over Suns

Despite a brutal shooting night from Westbrook, the Clippers probably don't walk out of Footprint Center with victory without him. Over the final 17.1 seconds of the fourth quarter, Westbrook nailed two crucial free throws before making the best defensive play of the game. 

Jimmy Butler joined exclusive group in Heat's stunning Game 1 win over Bucks

Butler's performance puts him alongside elite NBA talent including Michael Jordan, Russell Westbrook and LeBron James.

Bucks provide optimistic injury update on Giannis Antetokounmpo

Following the Bucks' shocking loss to the Miami Heat in Game 1 on Sunday, the team provided an optimistic update on the status of injured star Giannis Antetokounmpo, who exited after a scary fall to the court in the first half.

Austin Reaves explains why he shouted 'I'm him' in Game 1 win over Grizzlies

Reaves hit a crucial fade-away jumper with 1:30 left to put the Lakers up by eight before shouting, "I'm him" at the top of his lungs.

Grizzlies' Ja Morant leaves Game 1 vs. Lakers after scary fall

The Memphis Grizzlies dropped Game 1 of their first-round playoff series with the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday, but they may have lost a lot more than the game. 

Could NHL once more attempt to install team in Georgia?

The NHL has not fared well in Georgia, having failed several times to install a successful franchise in Atlanta. According to insider Kevin Weekes, an NHL-sized arena is coming to the state,  though, raising questions about a renewed attempt at hockey in the area.

Kings top Warriors in Game 1, win first home playoff game in 17 years

In front of a raucous crowd at Golden 1 Center on Saturday, the Sacramento Kings defeated the defending champion Golden State Warriors, 126-123, in Game 1 of their best-of-seven first-round series.

Watch: Cody Bellinger robs home run, gets booed by Dodger Stadium faithful

A day after receiving a standing ovation from the Dodger Stadium crowd, Cody Bellinger gave those same fans a reason to boo him on Saturday.  

Knicks survive to take Game 1 vs. Cavs, snap road playoff woes

The New York Knicks survived to knock off the Cleveland Cavaliers during Saturday's Game 1 matchup.

Bulls' 'double-double machine' to test free agency

This offseason could be one of change for the Chicago Bulls, who might require a new starting center with the future of veteran Nikola Vucevic up in the air. 

Nets HC Jacque Vaughn cries foul after Game 1 loss to 76ers

Speaking with reporters after the game, Vaughn complained about the officiating on Saturday, singling out 76ers MVP finalist Joel Embiid. 

Brewers provide ominous update on injured two-time All-Star

Brandon Woodruff's injury won't require surgery, but his timetable for a return to the mound is genuinely up in the air. 

76ers set impressive franchise record in Game 1 win over Nets

The Philadelphia 76ers kicked off the Eastern Conference playoffs in style on Saturday, topping the Brooklyn Nets in Game 1, 121-101, thanks to a big day from beyond the arc. 

Blue Jays, Bo Bichette snap Rays' historic 13-game winning streak

Toronto came out on top thanks to a strong effort at the plate from shortstop Bo Bichette and a solid pitching performance from starter Jose Berrios. 

Heat make unique history following play-in win over Bulls

The Miami Heat made some unusual history with their play-in tournament win over the Chicago Bulls on Friday.

Leadoff HR helps George Springer equal a Hall of Famer

Toronto Blue Jays veteran outfielder George Springer smashed the 53rd leadoff home run of his career on Friday and, in the process, equaled a Hall of Famer. 

Report: Budda Baker gave Cardinals ultimatum in February

Arizona Cardinals star safety Budda Baker requested a trade from the Arizona Cardinals on Friday. However, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Baker gave the Cardinals an ultimatum months ago. 

Red Sox infielder takes big step in rehab from elbow surgery

Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora offered a positive health update on rehabbing infielder Trevor Story.

Washington Capitals part ways with HC Peter Laviolette

On Friday, the Washington Capitals and head coach Peter Laviolette mutually agreed to part ways after three seasons.

Former Broncos Pro Bowler has high expectations for HC Sean Payton

A former Broncos Pro Bowler has high expectations for -- and confidence in -- new head coach Sean Payton.

Jonathan Toews made heartwarming gesture ahead of final game with Blackhawks

It's hard to envision Toews wearing a different crest on his jersey, but if he wants to continue his career, it will be elsewhere while the Blackhawks continue to rebuild.