Jane Njoku, Author at Matchplug Blog

NBA Expert Picks: Toronto Raptors VS Boston Celtics Predictions Tonight

The NBA’s matchday will kick off with the Toronto Raptors VS Boston Celtics game. With these two teams playing during the weekend and in good form too, the match is already looking entertaining.

Last year in December, the Celtics beat the Raptors by a 116-110 score in the first matchup of the season between the two teams on the court. But, with the Raptors experiencing so much growth since that time, things might be different now.

For a trusted preview of the Celtics and Raptors game, you can count on MatchPlug to put your own. We offer the best NBA Predictions Tonight for prominent games in this league, as well as in other Americans Sports too.

Predictions and Betting Preview for Toronto Raptors VS Boston Celtics NBA Regular Season Game

Venue: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, Ontario.

When: Saturday, January 21st, 2023

Time: 14:00 GMT

Teams to play: Toronto Raptors and Boston Celtics

NBA Expert Picks: SPREAD -1.5

Odds by BetMGM and 1XBet.

Betting On The Toronto Raptors

Season record: 20-25

1XBet Spread: +1.5

1XBet Moneyline: 2.19

1XBet Over/Under: Under 225.5

BetMGM Spread: +1.5

BetMGM Moneyline: 2.00

BetMGM Over/Under: Under 225.5

The Toronto Raptors have not had an easy season, but in the past weeks, they’ve started playing like the team they were predicted to be, increasing the effectiveness of their offense. They won five of their last seven games. The Raptors still have some improvement to do since, in spite of their effort, they remain 0.5 games outside the playoff spots and have a losing record.

Toronto needs to be confident to take on this uphill task, after a successful three-game road trip, since they have an okay 14-11 home record despite having an erratic season. They have held opponents to an average of 111.0 points at home, but they’ll score more than that to defeat a team they’ve only won once in their last five games at Scotiabank Arena.

Betting On The Boston Celtics

1XBet Spread: -1.5

1XBet Moneyline: 1.995

1XBet Over/Under: Over 225.5

BetMGM Spread: -1.5

BetMGM Moneyline: 1.83

BetMGM Over/Under: Over 225.5

Boston Celtics have maintained their good record throughout this season, solidifying their position at the top of the Eastern Conference and having the best record in the NBA, in spite of their occasional fluctuations.

They’ve only lost five of their 22 games at TD Garden, so their outstanding performance has unarguably been matched by a strong home record.

But, this does not mean that they are weak on the road: they are actually the best away team in the league with an excellent record of 16 wins and 7 losses. The Celtics led by Joe Mazzulla have shown a strong offensive rhythm during away matches, scoring 115.7 points on the average per game allowing only 112.2.

MatchPlug Prediction

Boston has had an impressive season offense-wise, but now they must play at their full capacity to defeat a home team that has been strong defensively at home and that caused them a lot of pain in their last game.

Toronto too are in the midst of a powerful offensive run, with players like Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam scoring plenty night in and night out; due to this, they should be able to give the Celtics who are good at improving their defense when needed, some problems.

Although this looks like a huge challenge for the Raptors to defeat the NBA’s top team tonight, hopefully, they can once again draw strength from their home team, and put on a good show, and fight till the end.

NBA News:

Steph Curry Makes NBA History On Sunday In Chicago Bulls VS Golden State Warriors

San Antonio Spurs Break NBA Regular Season Game Attendance Record

NHL Expert Picks: Ottawa Senators VS Pittsburgh Penguins Predictions Today

Ottawa Senators VS Pittsburgh Penguins is a game between two teams hoping to move past their equally challenging season.

The Senators have a 19-21-3 record and have dropped to the bottom of the Atlantic Division, no thanks to their consecutive losses.

Pittsburgh Penguins on their own part have a 22-15-6 record but only won three out of their past 10 games.

Both teams will try to improve in the Eastern Conference and due to this, today’s game promises to be an interesting one.

MatchPlug covers some NHL Predictions Today surrounding the Ottawa and Pittsburgh matchup.

Predictions and Betting Preview for Ottawa Senators And Pittsburgh Penguins

Where: Canadian Tire Centre, Ontario
When: Wednesday, January 18, 2023
Time: 16:00 GMT
Teams to play: Ottawa Senators and Pittsburgh Penguins
NHL Picks: MONEYLINE 2.375

Odds presented by 1XBet and BetMGM.

Ottawa Senators And Pittsburgh Penguins Predictions

These are some NHL predictions for today’s matchup between the Senators and Penguins.

The Senators’ Defense Is A Let-Down

Season Record: 19-21-3

1XBet Spread: +1.5
1XBet Moneyline: 2.625
1XBet Over/Under: Under 6.5

BetMGM Spread: +1.5
BetMGM Moneyline: 2.05
BetMGM Over/Under: Under 6.5

The Ottawa Senators are having a rough season with their offense falling, scoring only 2.91 goals per game with just one goal in the last two games. Brad Tkachuk and Tim Stützle share 34 goals and 48 assists to lead the top two lines, but the other members of offense have struggled.

Ottawa hopes that Shane Pinto and Derrick Brassard can step up, especially as they play a vital role in the team’s offense but scored only 16 goals and 12 assists this season.

While the Senator’s offense has struggled, their defense is a source of disappointment to the team. Thomas Chabot and Jake Sanderson combine for 4.3 defensive point shares, but the other defense members allowed opponents to score open shots on the net.

In addition, goaltender Anton Forsberg battled with a .902 percentage and a 3.25 goals-against average on 635 shots.

Penguins Hope To Improve Their Defense

Season Record: 19-21-3

1XBet Spread: -1.5
1XBet Moneyline: 2.375
1XBet Over/Under: Over 6.5

BetMGM Spread: -1.5
BetMGM Moneyline: 1.80
BetMGM Over/Under: Over 6.5

The Pittsburgh Penguins are having a hopeful season with their offense now scoring 3.21 goals per game. Sidney Crosby, Jake Guentzel, and Evgeni Malkin scored 54 goals and 75 assists to lead the top two lines, however, the rest of the Penguins’ offense has also improved.

Rickard Rakell, Jason Zucker, and Bryan Rust have a combined 36 goals and 48 assists, Jeff Carter, Kasperi Kapanen, and Brock McGinn contributed 23 goals and 28 assists to the back of the forward unit, making Pittsburgh’s offense hard to beat.

The Penguins’ offense has been great so far, but their defense is drowning, allowing 3.02 goals per game. Marcus Pettersson and Jan Rutta combined for 3.9 defensive point shares and 140 blocked shots, but the other arm of the defensive unit struggles, allowing opponents to score open shots on the net at will.

Additionally, goaltender Casey DeSmith is struggling with a .906 save percentage and a 3.10 goals-against average on 554 shots.

MatchPlug Prediction

Ottawa VS Pittsburgh will be an exciting game between two sides of the NHL looking to improve in the Eastern Conference. The Senators want to win on their home ice but the Penguins want to find favourable games on both sides of the ice.

Pittsburgh will build off a four-goal game and find the back of the net at will against Ottawa’s defense that allows 3.23 goals per game. Sidney Crosby, Jake Guentzel and the other members of the forward unit will carry the puck into the offensive zone and create open shots with efficient puck movement near the net.

The Penguins will also limit the Senators’ offense which has scored just one goal in the last two games. Marcus Pettersson, Jan Rutta, and the remaining defensive unit will create turnovers in the defensive zone and limit shots on the net to allow Casey DeSmith to make many big saves.

NHL Expert Picks predict that Pittsburgh should win the match with a dominant win on the road.

Final Prediction: Pittsburgh Penguins Moneyline.

NHL News: Gino Odjick Former NHL Player Dies At Age 52

NBA Expert Picks: Oklahoma City Thunder VS Indiana Pacers Predictions Tonight

After giving fans only four games night, the NBA swings back into full action today with a full day of great matchups, like the Oklahoma City Thunder VS Indiana Pacers game. This matchup features two teams fighting for a spot in the playoffs.

Although Oklahoma won in the last game between these teams, the Pacers are the ones who have been dominating the series lately, winning 6 out of their last 8 matchups.

At MatchPlug you’re sure to get the best previews and predictions on different basketball games, with detailed analysis. On that note, we offer you some of the best NBA Predictions Tonight and available odds for the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers game.

Predictions and Betting Preview for Oklahoma City Thunder VS Indiana Pacers

Venue: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
When: Wednesday, January 18, 2023
Time: 17:00 GMT
Teams to play: Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers
NBA Expert Picks: SPREAD -4.5

Odds as given on 1XBet and BetMGM.

Betting On The Oklahoma City Thunder

Season Record: 21-23

1XBet Spread: -4.5
1XBet Moneyline: 1.664
1XBet Over/Under: Under 239.5

BetMGM Spread: -4.5
BetMGM Moneyline: 1.55
BetMGM Over/Under: Over 240.5

The Oklahoma City Thunder are presently in 12th place in the Western Conference but are just 1.5 games behind the team in 6th place. They have faced the same challenges as the Pacers this season.

In spite of making positive impressions in the league, Oklahoma is battling with taking the next step to establish itself as a true playoff contender.

After playing four games on the road, the Thunder has returned home in the midst of an impressive three-game winning streak and only one loss in their past six games. During this stretch, they secured unbelievable victories over the Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks, and Brooklyn Nets.

The Brooklyn Nets were the Thunder’s most recent opponent in their last win under coach Mark Daigneault. Even after trailing behind for most of the game, they produced an outstanding fourth quarter, winning 37-22 to secure a 112-102 victory.

Betting On The Indiana Pacers

Season Record: 23-21

1XBet Spread: +4.5
1XBet Moneyline: 2.805
1XBet Over/Under: Over 239.5

BetMGM Spread: +4.5
BetMGM Moneyline: 2.50
BetMGM Over/Under: Over 240.5

The Indiana Pacers who possess a winning record, now place in 8th position in the Eastern Conference and are only 2.0 games off of a playoff spot. The team struggles with consistency. Indiana has lost four consecutive games due to Tyrese Haliburton’s injury which will keep him absent for a few weeks.

Indiana’s most recent loss was last Monday at an uphill visit to the Milwaukee Bucks. While they played without Giannis Antetokounmpo, their top player, they managed a 119-132 score thanks to Myles Turner and T.J. McConnell who contributed 30 and 29 points, respectively.

Their poor performances on road games have taken a toll on the Pacers this season, especially with a record of 8 wins and 12 losses on the road, giving up an average of 117.1 points allowed. Additionally, their offense has also been unproductive too on the road, averaging only 112.7 points scored.

See Steph Curry Makes NBA History On Sunday In Chicago Bulls VS Golden State Warriors

MatchPlug Prediction

Offensively, the Oklahoma City Thunder have been a strong team, presently averaging 116.8 points scored per game. The offense is led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who is one of the NBA’s top scorers and backed by Josh Giddey whose recent high-level performance hasn’t gone unnoticed.

The Indiana Pacers who often struggle with their defense when playing on the road, have a good reason to be concerned. They also tend to reduce their offensive output; which will no doubt help the Thunders, who don’t play always solid defense.

Having taken this into consideration, NBA Picks for Tonight expect the Thunder team who are in great shape and playing at home where they have the best results (13-9), to set the tone and win over the Pacers who are fighting for their fourth straight victory.

Final Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder Spread.

More NBA Previews:

NBA Expert Picks: Dallas Mavericks VS Atlanta Hawks Predictions Tonight

NBA Expert Picks: Dallas Mavericks VS Atlanta Hawks Predictions Tonight

Dallas Mavericks VS Atlanta Hawks is one game in a long string of clashes and thrilling NBA Action happening today the 18th of January. Mavericks vs Hawks is unarguably one of today’s most exciting matchups.

The two teams will be playing against each other for the first time in this campaign, and while it is under different circumstances, fans wouldn’t pass up an opportunity to see Trae Young and Luka Dončić play on the same court.

As always, MatchPlug brings you the best preview and NBA Predictions Tonight surrounding the Dallas and Atlanta match. In this piece, you can view all the Basketball Predictions and available odds for this game.

Read: Steph Curry Makes NBA History On Sunday In Chicago Bulls VS Golden State Warriors.

Predictions and Betting Preview for Dallas Mavericks VS Atlanta Hawks

Venue: American Airlines Center, Dallas, Texas
When: Wednesday, January 18, 2023
Time: 16:30 GMT
Teams to play: Dallas Mavericks and Atlanta Hawks
NBA Expert Picks: SPREAD -3.5

Odds as given on 1XBet and BetMGM.

See San Antonio Spurs Break NBA Regular Season Game Attendance Record.

Betting On The Dallas Mavericks

Season Record: 24-21
1XBet Spread: -3.5
1XBet Moneyline: 1.616
1XBet Over/Under: Under 231.5

BetMGM Spread: -3.5
BetMGM Moneyline: 1.61
BetMGM Over/Under: Under 232.5

While the Dallas Mavericks have had a far better year than the Hawks, tonight they’ll try to bounce back from a challenging five-game road trip where they won only one game; a development that pushed them down to fifth place in the Western Conference and now sitting 5.5 games off the top.

Dallas’ last two losses in their road trip game happened at Moda Center to the Portland Trail Blazers who punished the Mavericks’ defense and made them unable to stop Damian Lillard, who scored a total of 76 points and 16 assists between the two games.

But no matter, after scoring 123 points in their second game against Portland, Dallas played without Dončić present, making it a huge loss especially since Luka leads the team in points (33.8), assists (8.8), rebounds (8.9) and steals (1.6) per game. Additionally, while Dončić is the NBA’s offensive leader, the Mavericks only average 112.7 points scored per game.

Betting On The Atlanta Hawks

Dallas Mavericks VS Atlanta Hawks Predictions Tonight

Season Record: 22-22
1XBet Spread: +3.5
1XBet Moneyline: 2.77
1XBet Over/Under: Over 231.5

BetMGM Spread: +3.5
BetMGM Moneyline: 2.35
BetMGM Over/Under: Over 232.5

Despite their few good performances this campaign, the Atlanta Hawks still struggle to stay on track. However, presently, they’ve managed to pull their record back to .500, thanks to a good stretch where they won their last three games, although now they have to maintain this pace to put their record in positive numbers after many days.

Atlanta has faced challenges playing away this campaign; they have a 10-13 record in this area. But, after winning their last three games on the road they will definitely have their confidence boosted for their match against the Mavericks. They are already in high spirits following that 113-121 home win over the Miami Heat last Monday.

Trae Young this season is averaging 27.5 points and 9.8 assists per game, facilitating a Hawks offense with an average of 115.1 points scored per game and in turn, helped a failing defense to average 115.9 points allowed.

MatchPlug Prediction

Dallas Mavericks’ offense has a pattern of being more effective when the team is playing at home, giving up 113.5 points scored on average and a 16-6 record. This means that they could take the visiting Hawks who have a weak defense.

The Atlanta Hawks will mark Dončić because they want to destabilise Mavericks’ defense that struggled in their previous games but always give a great performance, especially at home, where they average 108.3 points allowed. Due to this, Young must be at his best if he wants to lead the Hawks to a good result tonight.

NBA Picks for Tonight predict that since the Mavericks have played best at home since this campaign, and with Luka Dončić at the front lines, Dallas will limit Atlanta’s powers, giving them the edge they need to win this matchup.

Final Prediction: Dallas Mavericks Spread.

More NBA Previews:

NBA Expert Picks: Oklahoma City Thunder VS Indiana Pacers Predictions Tonight.

NFL Announces Divisional Round Schedule

The NFL Divisional Round is now on schedule and five of the six games on Super Wild Card Weekend are in the books.

This Saturday will feature the top-seeded Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles debut before the mega Cincinnati Bengals-Buffalo Bills rematch kicks off Sunday’s action ahead of an NFC showdown.

See the full NFL divisional round schedule below:

Divisional Round

Saturday, January 21

AFC: 4:30 p.m. (ET) (4) Jacksonville Jaguars at (1) Kansas City Chiefs (NBC, Peacock, Universo)

NFC: 8:15 p.m. (ET) (6) New York Giants at (1) Philadelphia Eagles (FOX, FOX Deportes)

Sunday, January 22

AFC: 3:00 p.m. (ET) (3) Cincinnati Bengals at (2) Buffalo Bills (CBS, Paramount+)

NFC: 6:30 p.m. (ET) (5) Dallas Cowboys/ (4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers at (2) San Francisco 49ers (FOX, FOX Deportes)

Conference Championships

Sunday, January 29

NFC: 3:00 p.m. (ET) NFC Championship Game (FOX, FOX Deportes)

AFC: 6:30 p.m. (ET) AFC Championship Game (CBS, Paramount+)

NFL Playoffs: Cincinnati Bengals, New York Giants and Buffalo Bills All Win On Wildcard Weekend

Cincinnati Bengals’ Sam Hubbard gave the longest fumble return in play-off history to hand the Bengals a 24-17 win over the Baltimore Ravens on wildcard weekend.

Hubbard ran 98 yards in the fourth quarter to send the last season’s Super Bowl runners-up into week two of this season’s NFL playoffs.

Last Sunday, the New York Giants for their own game, defeated the Minnesota Vikings 31-24.

While the Miami Dolphins scared the Buffalo Bills before the pre-season Super Bowl favourites won 34-31.

Cincinnati’s win brought a tense end to an intriguing day two of the wildcard weekend as all three games went down to the wire.

Read: NFL Announces Divisional Round Schedule

Bengals’ receiver Ja’Marr Chase scored an opening touchdown that was cancelled out by Baltimore’s JK Dobbins as the Ravens led 10-9 at half-time.

Joe Burrow Cincinnati’s quarterback got in from a yard to cap an 83-yard drive before Tyler Huntley, who was covering for the Ravens’ injured quarterback Lamar Jackson, hit Demarcus Robinson for a 41-yard touchdown.

That tied the score for both teams heading into the final quarter and as Huntley lunged for the end zone from a yard, the ball was knocked out of his hands. It fell right into Hubbard’s waiting arms and he raced downfield for an unbelievably match-winning score.

New York Giants Secure Their First Play-off Win In 11 Years

The New York Giants took the lead for most of the match at Minnesota, the third seed in the NFC; fourth-year quarterback Daniel Jones secured a road victory in his first playoff appearance.

Giants running back Saquon Barkley claimed a combination of 109 yards and two rushing touchdowns, the first from 28 yards, as New York gained a half-time lead of 17-14.

Minnesota and New York scored a touchdown in the third quarter before a Vikings field goal made it 24-24 early in the fourth.

Saquon then capped a 12-play drive with a two-yard score to restore New York’s lead and they held on for their first playoff victory since winning their fourth Super Bowl at the end of the 2011 season.

Daniel Jones also became the first quarterback in play-off history to throw for over 300 yards and two touchdowns while adding more than 70 rushing yards.

This weekend the Giants will visit their NFC East rivals the Philadelphia Eagles, who are the number one seed and had a bye to the divisional round.

Damar Hamlin Inspires Buffalo Bills

NFL Playoffs: Buffalo Bills — Buffalo Bills

Miami Dolphins bounced back from a 17-0 deficit to briefly lead 24-20 against the Buffalo Bills who drew inspiration from a recovering Damar Hamlin for their NFL playoffs game.

Hamlin watched last Sunday’s game from his home where he is recuperating from the Cardiac arrest he suffered on the field on 2nd January. On Saturday the Bills’ safety visited his team for the first time since the incident.

“There was a big line of guys ready to love up on him”, quarterback Josh Allen said. Allen had three touchdown passes and two interceptions. “It was a blessing come true to see him back in the facility.”

Buffalo Bills are the AFC’s number two seeds and looked on course for a blowout win after Dawson Knox and James Cook scored.

The Dolphins lost five of their last six games in the regular season and had to play Skylar Thompson their third-choice quarterback, but drew level when he found Mike Gesicki for a touchdown.

A field goal tipped the Bills into a 20-17 lead at the half, only for Zach Sieler to score a defensive touchdown for the Dolphins after Allen fumbled.

However, Buffalo quickly recovered and answered with two rapid touchdowns from Cole Beasley and Gabe Davis, and after getting back to within three during the final quarter, Miami could not get within scoring range on their final possession.

The Bills will now relive an emotional matchup against the Bengals, in a rematch of the cancelled regular season game when Hamlin had a cardiac arrest.

The first round of the NFL playoffs will conclude with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers hosting the Dallas Cowboys at 01:15 GMT on Tuesday.

Steph Curry Makes NBA History On Sunday In Chicago Bulls VS Golden State Warriors

Golden State Warriors point guard Steph Curry is now 41st on the NBA’s all-time scoring list.

Last Sunday afternoon, the Warriors lost 132 -118 to the Chicago Bulls at the United Center in Illinois.

Two-time MVP Steph Curry ended the game with 20 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and one block in 34 minutes of playing time.

Furthermore, Curry made NBA history during the game by passing Pau Gasol to become number 41 on the NBA’s all-time scoring list.

Gasol in his time, scored 20,894 points over 1,226 regular season games, while Curry has only played 855 regular season games.

At 34 years old, there is a chance that Curry who is still playing well, will likely go further down the list by the time his career ends.

The four-time NBA Champion has led the Warriors to the NBA Finals in six out of the last eight seasons and in this time, they have won four titles.

Following the loss on Sunday, Curry’s team are now 21-22 in 43 games; 17-5 at home and 4-17 in 21 games on the road away from the Chase Center.

At the beginning of the season, Curry missed 11 straight games due to a shoulder injury, but he has played in the last three games.

He is averaging an astounding 28.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.0 steals per contest (on 49.6% shooting from the field and 42.2% from the three-point range) in 29 games.

The Golden State Warriors will play their next game against the Washington Wizards this Monday.

San Antonio Spurs break NBA Game Attendance Record

San Antonio Spurs Break NBA Regular Season Game Attendance Record

San Antonio plays home games at AT&T Center but came back to the Alamodome as part of the team’s 50th-anniversary celebration.

San Antonio (AP) – The San Antonio Spurs announced an attendance of 68,323 fans for their return to the Alamodome, which is a record number for an NBA regular-season game.

Spurs, while celebrating their 50th anniversary season, returned to their former playing grounds to face the Golden State Warriors last Friday night.

San Antonio Hall of Famer David Robinson was the one who announced the official attendance at the close of the third quarter. Robinson said, “Spurs fans have again set the standard for the league”

Fans of the team began to chant”Go Spurs Go!” after the announcement.

The given numbers shattered the previous record of 62,046 people who gathered to watch Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls play the Atlanta Hawks at the Georgia Dome on March 27, 1998.

“Yeah, that’s pretty different,” San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich said about the record crowd. “It’s a situation where you know… are they selling alcohol? I think that people will be pretty fired up. It is just an exciting moment for everybody. It is nostalgic for everybody. To have that many people in one building, to be able to play in front of them, is pretty damn exciting, actually. We hope it is a good game.”

san antonio spurs break game attendance record — The Alamodome

Although San Antonio now plays its home games at the AT & T Center, coming back to the Alamodome was a way to mark the Spurs’ 50th-anniversary celebration.

While the team (13-29) is having one of the worst seasons in its history, playing at the Alamodome gave fans an opportunity to relive a former era for the team.

“Having my son here with me, sharing a past and present memory, will be cherished by both of us for years,” said a Spurs fan, Eric Hernandez, who previously attended games at the Alamodome.

The San Antonio Spurs franchise started off at the HemisFair Arena in 1973, but the Alamodome is where they took their first steps toward becoming one of the most respected franchises in the NBA.

They played in the Alamodome from 1993 to 2002 before moving to the AT&T Center.

It was in the Alamodome that San Antonio won its first NBA championship in 1999 and held its championship celebration in the downtown facility.

The Alamodome was also where the 1996 NBA All-Star Game was hosted, it was where Michael Jordan was booed for winning MVP over former Spurs resident Shaquille O’Neal.

“It’s crazy,” said Taro Kotani, a Spurs fan visiting from Japan. “The amount of people here. I’ve never been inside the Dome, so just imagining what it was like here during the ’96 All-Star Game and ’99 Finals is so nostalgic. I wasn’t there but this brings back lots of memories”.

Kotani had planned his annual trip to San Antonio around Friday’s game because he wanted to be there when history was made.

MLB: A Look At All International Signing Day Deals

January 15 is known officially as the first day of the international signing period and this day means the world to prospects from across the globe who sign on to the MLB during the 11-month span.

While it’s been called international signing day, other people have renamed it to “international day of joy.”

This is because, for the prospects, it is their first step into playing professional baseball. It is also the day when their dreams come true.

The signing period lasts through December 15, 2023. Below is a list of players from the MLB Pipeline’s list that have reportedly agreed to terms with clubs, and for how much. Unless otherwise noted, no clubs have confirmed these deals.

1. Ethan Salas, C, Ven: Padres + ($5,600,000)

2. Felnin Celeste, SS, D.R: Mariners ($4,7000,000)

3. Joendry Vargas, SS, D.R: Dodgers ($2,077,500)

4. Alfredo Duno, C, Ven: Reds+

5. Luis Morales, RHP, Cuba: Athletics ($3,000,000)

6. Derniche Valdez, SS, D.R: Cubs ($2,700,00)

7. Emmanuel Bonilla, OF, D.R: Blue Jays ($4,100,000)

8. Sebastian Walcott, SS, Bahamas: Rangers

9. Brando Mayea, OF, Cuba: Yankees ($,4,400,000)

10. Jun-Seok Shim, RHP, S. Korea: Pirates+

11. Ariel Castro, OF, Cuba: Twins ($2,500,000)

12. Brailer Guerrero, OF, D.R.: Rays ($3,700,000)

13. Jesus Caba, SS, D.R.: Phillies ($3,000,000)

14. Ludwig Espinoza, SS, Ven.: Cubs ($1,500,000)

15. Rayner Arias, OF, D.R.: Giants ($2,800,000)

16 Janero Miller, OF, Bahama, Marlins

17. Camilo Diaz, OF, D.R.: Astros+ ($2,250,000)

18. Gian Zapata, OF, D.R.: D-backs ($950,000)

19. Angel Cepeda, SS, D.R.: Cubs ($1,000,000)

20. Luis Almeyda, SS, D.R.: Orioles+ ($2,300,000)

21. Esmil Valencia, OF, D.R.: Astros+ ($897,500)

22. Yophery Rodriguez, OF, Ven.: Brewers ($1,500,000)

23. Arnaldo Lantigua, OF, D.R: Dodgers ($697,500)

24. Robert Calaz, OF, D.R. Rockies ($2,500,000)

25. Yoeilin Cespedes, SS, DR: Red Sox (estimated $1,400,000)

26. Raymond Mola, OF, D.R: Pirates+

27. Daiverson Gutierrez, C, D.R.: Mets

28. Welbyn Francisca, SS, D.R: Guardians+

29. Anthony Baptist, OF, D.R.: Mets

30. Tony Ruiz, OF, D.R.

31. Carlos Silva, C, Ven.: Twins

32. Enrique Jimenez, C, Ven.: Tigers+ ($1,250,00)

33. Filippo Di Turri, SS, Ven.: Brewers ($1,300,000)

34. Luis Guanipa, OF, Ven.: Braves

35. Kevin Ereu, SS, Ven.: Brewers ($1,400,000)

36. Reiner Lopez, RHP, Ven.: Cardinals+ ($500,000)

37. Yerlin Luis, OF, D.R.: Guardians+

38. Hendry Chivilli, SS, D.R.: Twins

39. Manuel Cabrera, SS, D.R.: Nationals+($500,00)

40. Darling Fernandez, OF, D.R.: Athletics (estimated $1,000,000)

41. Luis Reyes, RHP, D.R.: White Sox ($700,000)

42. Jeter Martinez, RHP, Mex.: Mariners ($600,000)

43. Cristopher Larez, SS, Ven.: Mets ($1,500,000)

44. Maikol Orozco, SS, Ven.: Tigers ($900,000)

45. Andy Acevedo, OF, DR.: Nationals+ ($1,200,000)

46. Edwin Solano, SS, D.R.: Nationals+ ($1,200,000)

47. Jeremy Rodriguez, SS, D.R.: D-backs (estimated $1,000,000)

48. Cristian Perez, OF, D.R.: Tigers+ ($1,100,000)

49. Marwys Jorge, RHP, D.R.: Royals ($450,000)

50. Felix Morrobel, SS, D.R.: Angels ($900,000)

*+ Shows that the club has officially announced the signing.

Signings Breakdown:

Thirty-one of the players on the Top 50 International Prospects list of 2022 are from the Dominican Republic. 12 prospects are from Venezuela, three from Cuba, two from the Bahamas, and one each from Mexico and Korea.

In terms of position, there are 20 infielders, 18 outfielders, five catchers, six pitchers, and one two-way player.

Here are the international bonus pools for the 2022-23 signing period:

Clubs that received a Competitive Balance Pick in Round B of the Draft (Athletics, Brewers, Mariners, Marlins, Rays, Reds, Tigers, and Twins) received a pool of $6,366,900) while clubs with a Competitive Balance Pick in Round A (D-backs, Guardians, Orioles, Padres, Pirates, Rockies, and Royals) received $5,825,500.

The base signing pool for the Astros, Blue Jays, Braves, Cardinals, Cubs, Giants, Mets, Nationals, White Sox, and Yankees is $5,284,00.

Los Angeles Angels, Phillies, and Red Sox each forfeited $500,000 from their pools for signing players who had rejected qualifying offers – Noah Syndergaard, Nick Castellanos, and Trevor Story – last off-season so each has a pool of $4,644,00. The Dodgers and Rangers each forfeited $1,000,000 from their pools for signing players who had rejected qualifying offers to lower their pool to $4,144,000.

The Dodgers surpassed the luxury tax threshold the previous season and forfeited $1,000,000 for Freddie Freeman. The Rangers forfeited $500,000 each for Corey Seager and Marcus Semien.

Forfeited monies are redistributed to other clubs

Teams will be allowed to trade international bonus slots during this signing period starting January 15

Guidelines:

International players are eligible to sign with a Major League team between January 15 and December 15. They must turn 16 before he signs and be 17 before September 1 the following year – in practical terms, this means players born between September 1, 2005, and August 31, 2006, will be eligible to sign in the upcoming signing period.

Players must be registered with Major League Baseball in advance in order to be eligible to sign.

These are some other prospects who signed for $300,000 or higher:

Astros

German Ramirez, SS, D.R. – $1,200,000

Eduardo Perez, OF, D.R. – $797,000

Athletics

Ramon Landaeta, C, Ven. -.$750,000

Blue Jays

David Guzman, OF, Ven. – $650,000

Samuel Acuna, RHP, Ven – $300,00

Cardinals

Bracewell Tavera, SS, D.R. – $450,000

Ruben Menes, RHP, D.R. – $400,000

Angel Gil, OF, D.R. $375,000

D-backs

Yassel Soler, 3B, D.R. – $425,000

Dodgers

Daniel Mielcarek, SS, D.R. – $397,500

Guardians

José Marcano, INF, Ven. – $800,000

Luis Merejo, INF, D.R. – $340,000

José Pirela, OF, Ven. – $320,000

Juan Frances, OF, Ven. – $320,000

Jonathan Martinez, INF, D.R. $300,000

Pirates

Jonathan Rivero, C, Ven – $840,000

Rays

Willian Trinidad, INF, D.R. – $500,000

Reds

Alfredo Alcantara, SS, D.R. – $640,000

Rafhlmil Torres, SS, Ven. – $300,000

Rockies

Alessander De La Cruz, D.R. – $650,000

Yeiker Reyes, OF, Ven, – $500,000

Jeremy Ciriaco, SS, D.R. – $500,000

Alison Zacarias, RHP, D.R. – $500,000

Tigers

Anibal Salas, OF, Ven. – $1,000,000

Twins

Juan Hernandez, SS, Ven. – $350,000

White Sox

Abraham Nunez, OF, D.R. – $700,000

Brandon Belt Signed To Blue Jays In One-Year Deal

Former Los Angeles Starting Pitcher Matt Harvey Looking To Make An MLB Comeback

Harvey has not pitched in over a year.

Former Los Angeles Angels RHP Matt Harvey is looking to make an MLB comeback. MLB Insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post wrote “Matt Harvey is hoping to pitch again this year” in a recent article.

The Right Hand Pitcher has not pitched since the 2021 season when he played in 28 games for the Baltimore Orioles. That year, he went 6-14 with a 6.27 ERA and a 1.54 WHIP.

In 2020, Harvey made seven appearances with the Kansas City Royals, going 0-3 with an ERA of 11.57 and a WHIP of 2.74.

Prior to that, Matt spent the 2019 season with the Los Angeles Angels. He ended the season with a career-worst (at the time) 7.09 ERA and a 1.54 WHIP in just 59.2 innings (12 starts). He also played for a while with the Cincinnati Reds and spent his five seven-plus seasons with the New York Mets.

When he was at the peak of his career, Harvey was an All-Star in 2013 and had sub-three ERAs in 2012, 2013, and 2015. However, the 33-year-old is well removed from that part of his career and hasn’t enjoyed much success since 2016.

Any MLB team may take a chance on Harvey and give him a role that fits his current skill set. But for now, there is no indicator that he would get a chance, particularly at the major league level.

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