Paul Goldschmidt Injury Puts Availability for Yankees–Cardinals Series in Doubt

August 18, 2025

The New York Yankees’ 4-1 loss to the Minnesota Twins at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, was accompanied by concern over first baseman Paul Goldschmidt’s availability. Goldschmidt, 37, was absent from a seventh-inning pinch-hit opportunity, which manager Aaron Boone later explained was due to a low-grade sprain of his right knee.

The injury occurred on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, when Goldschmidt pursued a third-inning foul popup from Byron Buxton near the Yankees’ dugout. “I kind of over-ran it and dove back, and hit my knee on the ground,” Goldschmidt said, adding that it felt sore but he was able to continue playing until grimacing while running out a seventh-inning double, after which he exited the game.

Key Takeaways

Paul Goldschmidt sustained a low-grade right knee sprain while chasing a foul popup against the Twins, leaving his status for upcoming games uncertain and prompting possible roster adjustments.
The Yankees’ lineup is already under strain, with Aaron Judge limited to designated hitter duties, Giancarlo Stanton covering right field, and Jasson Domínguez seeing reduced playing time.
Rookie pitcher Cam Schlittler impressed in the Twins series finale, retiring the first nine batters faced and reaching 99.8 mph on his fastball despite the team’s 4-1 loss.

Evaluation Timeline and Career Achievements

Goldschmidt said, “I felt like I could continue to play, which I did, but I had it checked out today and hopefully we’ll be good to go. There’s a chance, but I don’t think it’s anything long term. It even could be short term as far as a day or two.” Boone stated that the team will evaluate Goldschmidt after Thursday’s off-day and did not rule out a stint on the injured list.

Goldschmidt played for the St. Louis Cardinals from 2019 to 2024, winning the 2022 National League MVP Award, the NL Hank Aaron Award, and earning one of his seven All-Star selections. He has also won five Silver Slugger Awards, the most for any first baseman. In 2025, he is batting .276/.331/.422 with 10 home runs and 40 RBIs in 112 games.

Betting Markets Adjust Ahead of Yankees–Cardinals Series

Following Goldschmidt’s injury news, betting markets for the Yankees–Cardinals series reflected modest changes before first pitch. The consensus moneyline moved from around -122 earlier in the cycle to approximately -134 for the Yankees, with the Cardinals at +113. The total closed between 8.5 and 9 runs, and the run line prices favored the Cardinals at +1.5 with heavier juice.

Pre-game model projections differed slightly. Covers’ predictor projected a Yankees win by an estimated score of 5.53–4.64. Dimers’ simulations indicated roughly a 55% win probability for New York. numberFire’s model gave the Cardinals a slight edge at 50.55% compared to the Yankees at 49.45%.

Player prop availability was also affected prior to the game. Some sportsbooks withheld certain Yankees batting props, while FanDuel listed Aaron Judge at +215 to hit a home run. Futures odds for the Yankees to win the 2025 World Series varied: DraftKings listed them at +1100, BetMGM at +1200, ESPN BET at +1400, and the consensus board on OddsShark at +1300. BetMGM’s +1200 price at that time represented a shift from its +800 opening number.

The scheduled starting pitchers for that matchup were Luis Gil for New York (0–1, 7.27 ERA) and Andre Pallante for St. Louis (6–9, 4.95 ERA).

Yankees Face Limited Options if Goldschmidt Misses Time

If Goldschmidt requires an IL stint, the Yankees have limited in-house replacements. The only other first basemen on the 40-man roster are Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre infielders Jorbit Vivas and Braden Shewmake. Another possibility is moving utility player Ben Rice from catcher to first base and reinstating Austin Wells behind the plate.

The Yankees’ current lineup is already affected by Aaron Judge‘s recovery from a right flexor strain. Judge has been limited to designated hitter duties for the past eight games. Boone reported that Judge has been throwing from distances up to 120 feet, but provided no target date for his return to the outfield. Giancarlo Stanton has started in right field for the fourth time since last playing the position in 2023.

Jasson Domínguez has seen less playing time, entering Wednesday’s game with one hit in his last 19 at-bats since August 2. Boone described the situation as day-to-day and said, “JD is a big part of it… it’s a little snapshot in a long season. So he could be the most central figure in the next game.”

Yankees’ Offensive and Pitching Notes From Twins Series Finale

In Wednesday’s loss to Minnesota, the Yankees recorded four hits and two walks. Cody Bellinger hit a third-inning home run into the second deck in right field, his 22nd of the season, off Twins starter Joe Ryan. Ryan allowed one run over 6 2/3 innings and struck out seven. “It’s such a unique arm. He mixed really well. Ultimately, he did a really good job,” Bellinger said.

The Twins took the lead in the sixth inning on Kody Clemens’ two-run double off Yerry De Los Santos. The game was delayed nearly two hours by rain and ended the Yankees’ nine-game winning streak against Minnesota dating back to early 2022.

Rookie starter Cam Schlittler retired the first nine batters he faced, featuring a fastball averaging 98.3 mph and topping out at 99.8 mph. Boone praised his pitch location and secondary offerings. Schlittler allowed one run in the fourth inning and ended his night after 86 pitches. “I felt good, but I’m a rookie,” Schlittler said. “You’ve got to earn that… I trust the bullpen… As a rookie, you’ve got to earn that to get to 100, 105 pitches like Max [Fried] and Carlos [Rodón].”

Best Sports Betting Sites – Top 5 Online Sportsbooks (2025 Update)

Lucia Schettino

August 18, 2025

Ever since the Supreme Court overturned the law around online sports betting, allowing states to legalize the activity, we’ve seen the emergence of some of the best betting sites in the world.

The fact that players can bet legally in many states now has been a real game changer.

So, what have the last five years of online betting activity looked like for players? We’ve been reviewing the history to bring you a comprehensive guide to the story of online betting in the US.

Are Sports Betting Sites Legal in the US?

Yes, it is currently legal to access sports betting sites across most states in the US. The federal law was overturned in 2018, and this has led to loads of states opening up their doors to sports betting for their residents.

Legal Online Betting Sites in the US: A Brief History

The state of New Jersey became the first in the country to legalize online sports betting for its residents in August 2018. This came after the federal ban on all online sports betting activity was lifted by the Supreme Court.

This came around five months after the Supreme Court finally removed the ban, named PASPA, back in May of that year. The overturning of the ban came as a result of pressure from individual states, sporting bodies and other organizations. It was a long battle, but the country got there in the end!

Next up, states such as Philadelphia and West Virginia took their turn to legalize online sports betting for people living there. Bit by bit, more and more states began to overturn their own rules and now, it’s possible to bet on sports legally in over 30 states.

Sports You Can Bet On at Legal Betting Sites

What sports can’t you bet on at legal betting sites, really? The emergence of legal gambling has allowed for more and more sports to be covered all around the world. Here are some of the most popular sports to bet on in the various states where online sports betting is legal.

Football
Basketball
Soccer
Tennis
Formula 1
Hockey
Baseball
eSports

The Latest Updates for Online Sports Betting Sites

2018 feels like a long time ago now that so many things have changed in the world of online sports betting in the US. It’s legal in a lot more states, and there are a lot more great online sports betting sites as a result of this.

Here are a few of the latest developments in the online sports betting scene, to keep you in the loop.

Missouri set to legalize betting sites: The next state to be added to the list of places to fully legalize online sports betting is Missouri. A bill was passed in late 2024, and the state is currently going through the motions of putting this into action, with the first betting sites set to pop up in 2025.

Exciting new sports betting sites introduced: We’ve recently seen an influx of new sports betting sites across every state where betting sites have been legalized. This means that players are going to get a lot more choice, and can hopefully find something that suits them well.

Upgraded sports betting promos: The bonus offers at sports betting sites seem to be getting bigger and better year in, year out. Nowadays, we’re seeing tons of free bets, deposit matches and more. This is generally as a result of the increased competition between sites.

Better sports betting technology: Betting sites are certainly getting better for their overall user experiences, with better design and mobile compatibility to make things easier for players. We’re also seeing better bet slips, live betting tools and a whole lot more.

Are There Any Downsides to Legal Betting Sites?

Legal sports betting is all well and good for the most part, but there are a couple of potential negatives to the situation. We recommend that you consider the following before you get started with your legal online sports betting journey.

Not all sites are super secure

There are a lot of safe legal betting sites out there, but some of them are not quite so secure. This is why it’s a good idea to look into the encryption, licensing and customer reviews of any bookmaker before you sign up.

Some sites have fewer safe gambling tools

We recommend only signing up for betting sites that have a good range of safe gambling tools to help you to stay in control of your gameplay. Not all sites have these though. They’re worth avoiding.

State licensed sites are fewer in number

There aren’t as many legally licensed state sports betting sites as there are offshore ones. The lack of competitions means that there are fewer markets, smaller odds and less generous bonuses some of the time.

Not so easy to travel between states

It’s important to remember that as soon as you leave your state and go to another, the law could be completely different. It can be awkward, but you’re going to have to do your research if you’re planning on going on a trip across the country.

The Future of Legal Betting Sites

So, what’s next for the world of legal online sports betting?

Well, first and foremost, we’re likely to see a few more states open their stores to legal betting soon. It’s been a slow year or two, but one by one, states seem to be coming around to the idea. There are a lot of movements in this direction.

Perhaps even more exciting is the likelihood of some fantastic new online betting sites. The past few years have seen some fantastic new sportsbooks with better odds, bonuses and markets than ever. It seems clear to us that this trend is going to continue into the future.

We’re in a pretty good place for online sports betting right now. And by the look of the way things are going, it’s only going to get better in time to come. Watch this space!

Nothing ramps up the excitement of watching your favorite team like placing a few bets on the game.

And what do you need for that? The best betting sites, of course!

That’s why we’ve ranked the top 10 sportsbooks according to their betting tools, bonuses, and payout speed. Leading the pack is BetWhale, thanks to its $6,000 welcome bonus, a great range of markets, and overall user experience.

But don’t just stop there — this list is stacked with options that could be your next go-to betting hub. Let’s go!

Best Betting Sites and Sportsbooks – Quick Look

BetWhale	Best Overall – 200% Bonus up to $6,000
BetOnline	Best for Live Betting
Bovada	Top Football Betting Site
SportsBetting.ag	Fast payouts
MyBookie	Most Generous Bonuses

Curious how these online sportsbooks earned their spot in our rankings? Read on to discover what sets them apart as the top choices for sports betting.

Best Online Sports Betting Promos – August 2025

200% Bonus up to $6,000: This massive welcome offer from BetWhale gives new users a 200% match on their first deposit, up to $6,000 in bonus funds.

$250 Free Bet Promo With 0 WR at BetOnline: BetOnline lets new players score up to $250 in free bets with no wagering requirements. Just deposit $50+ with the promo code FREE250 and you’ll get bet credits you can use instantly.

75% Deposit Match up to $75 at Bovada: Crypto users at Bovada can claim a 75% deposit match worth up to $750. This high-value offer is available right after signup and gives you a solid boost with just a 5x rollover, making it one of the most accessible bonuses around.

Best Sports Betting Sites Online – Reviewed

1. BetWhale – Best Betting Site Online Overall

Pros

150% deposit boost for newcomers
Excellent odds for major sports
Great loyalty rewards
Quick crypto withdrawals
Solid coverage of esports markets

Cons

Not the most visually appealing sportsbook
Less coverage of more niche sports

Want the top all-around online sportsbook? BetWhale takes the crown with standout promotions, broad sports coverage, and sharp odds. Here’s a closer look at what makes it shine.

Sports Betting Options: 4.95/5

You can bet on pretty much everything you can possibly imagine in terms of major sports. Football, hockey, soccer, and more are all covered extensively. The number of futures and prop bets is very strong, and the coverage of lower and international leagues is excellent, too.

Coverage of eSports is solid at the best online sportsbook. You’ll be able to bet on over 10 different esports. We found a few options that were super rare at other sports betting sites, such as GeoGuessr and PUBG.

If we could make one change, we might add a few more niche sports. The overall number of sports covered is slightly less than some of the competitors.

Free Bets and Bonuses: 4.95/5

If you’re new to the best online sportsbook, there’s a big bonus waiting for you. First-time players can claim a 200% deposit match worth up to $6,000 – a fantastic boost to start betting with extra funds. But that’s just the beginning.

This site also dishes out daily free bets, hosts regular tournaments, and features a wide range of promotions to keep your experience exciting long after you sign up. Stick around and see why so many players consider it the best place to wager online.

>> Grab up to a $6,000 bonus

2. BetOnline – Top Sports Betting App for Live Wagering

Pros

Up to $250 free bet bonus + 100 casino spins
Offers 30+ sports
Frequent betting contests with $10k+ prize pools
Fantastic live betting tools
Over 25 years in the business

Cons

Weekly and monthly boosts can be random
High fees for card payments

Long-running sports betting platform BetOnline has stayed ahead of the pack for over 25 years by continually adopting modern technology. One of its newest additions is live betting.

Sports Betting Options: 4.9/5

Our favorite thing about this online sportsbook is the fantastic live betting tools it has to offer. The attention to detail with the live graphics for most of the events is very strong, providing you with loads of useful betting information as and when events unfold. There are even plenty of live streams.

There are tons of markets you can bet on live here as well. BetOnline offers odds on over 20 sports and a handful of esports. These odds update very quickly as the events progress, so you’ll get great value for money for in-play bets and cash-outs.

Live betting isn’t the only good thing BetOnline is good for. There are some great tools for same game parlays, for example.

It’s really easy to combine your bets for an event on one bet slip, and there are lots of different prop bets you can use for most events as well.

Free Bets and Bonuses: 4.8/5

New users at this great sports betting app get a 50% up to $250 deposit match that comes as a free bet, plus 100 free spins for the casino, and neither of them has any wagering requirements attached. You’ll have to use the promo code FREE250 to grab it.

Impressively, there’s no rollover for either part of this offer. You’ll be able to cash out anything you’ve won from it straight away, subject to a few minor terms and conditions.

After that, reload bonuses come randomly, though bettors can still participate in the betting contests, which are available almost every day.

>> Enjoy up to $250 welcome promo

3. Bovada – Best Football Markets of All Top Betting Sites Online

Pros

Up to $750 in welcome bonuses
Weekly prize giveaways
Over 30 sports to wager on
Option to create custom prop bets
Discounted margins on NFL games
Quick withdrawals

Cons

College sports lines can be delayed
Check withdrawals have extra fees

Not sure where to start with your wagers? You’ll want a sportsbook that offers plenty of variety, and Bovada fits the bill perfectly. Here’s what makes it stand out for all types of bettors.

Sports Betting Options: 4.8/5

Bovada’s sportsbook really shines thanks to its extensive selection of betting markets that appeal to all kinds of sports fans.

You’ll find wagers on major leagues like football, basketball, and soccer, along with plenty of options for niche markets, including esports and virtual games.

If you’re especially focused on NFL and college football, this platform stands out as one of the top choices for competitive odds and betting variety. Plus, its intuitive layout makes it easy for both newcomers and seasoned bettors to find and place their bets effortlessly.

Free Bets and Bonuses: 4.8/5

Create an account with this popular sports betting app, and you’ll unlock a $250 welcome bonus. This promotion offers a 50% match on your first deposit and carries a 5x rollover requirement.

If you prefer using cryptocurrency, you can claim an even bigger perk — a 75% deposit match worth up to $750, making it a stronger option than the standard deal.

On top of that, Bovada’s loyalty program gives frequent bettors the chance to collect points, unlock extra bonuses, and move up through six reward tiers for even more benefits.

>> Claim your $750 bonus

4. Sportsbetting.ag – Best Sportsbook Online With Fastest Payouts

Pros

$250 in free bets plus 100 free spins
$50 no-risk bet
Great new site design
Top-notch live betting platform
Major NFL and NBA competitions

Cons

No e-wallet payments
Slightly higher fees on credit cards

You’ll be able to get paid out instantly through over 20 payment methods at SportsBetting.ag, the best sports betting site online for fast payouts. Banking here is about as easy as it gets.

Sports Betting Options: 4.75/5

You’ll be hard-pressed to find an online sports betting market that SportsBetting.ag doesn’t offer odds on. There are over 25 sports to bet on, and for most of these, the markets cover a great range of leagues and tournaments.

The eSports coverage is really good here as well. Instead of only offering odds on the major sports like League of Legends and Dota 2, SportsBetting.ag also offers odds on the likes of Valorant and Age of Empires.

The only thing missing here, really, is a few more non-sports markets, such as niche financial, celebrity, and political betting markets.

Free Bets and Bonuses: 4.6/5

Newcomers to this mobile sports betting app can grab a 50% deposit match worth up to $250 in free bets, giving you extra funds to start wagering.

Even if you’re not primarily interested in casino offers, the welcome bonus also includes 100 free spins on slot games, adding more ways to score a win right from the start.

>> Enjoy your $250 free bets

5. MyBookie – Best App for Sports Betting Bonuses

Pros

$200 cash bonus or 50% match up to $1,000
Very low wagering on bonuses
Lots of props for major events
Frequent tournaments and contests
Alternate lines and Asian handicap options

Cons

Old-fashioned site layout
VIP club is by invitation only

Who doesn’t appreciate big bonuses? We certainly do, and when it comes to rewarding promotions, MyBookie stands out as one of the top online sportsbooks around.

Sports Betting Options: 4.6/5

Distinctive for its innovative in-game prop bet builder, MyBookie allows bettors to easily compile bets from multiple sports without having to navigate through many different sections.

This exceptional feature also comes in handy for popular NFL and NBA games that get 200 prop bets for a single game at this mobile betting app.

In addition, MyBookie’s comprehensive coverage of international horse racing events, including those at less popular venues, is a feature that sets it apart in the crowded online betting market.

Fun fact: MyBookie topped our list of the best Maryland sportsbooks.

Free Bets and Bonuses: 4.85/5

MyBookie treats its users with an array of rewards. When you deposit a minimum of $55 and use the code MYB50, you can get a 50% welcome bonus up to $1,000.

An 8% cashback offer is also on the table for horse racing fans, while new bettors receive a $10 chip for online casino play.

There’s also an opportunity to score a 200% referral bonus if you introduce friends to MyBookie. Beyond this, a 25% sports reload bonus is also available on every additional deposit you make.

>> Get a $1,000 welcome offer

New Online Betting Sites

Hudson Online Betting Sites

Let’s break down the key features that make these new betting sites worth your time.

Massive Bonuses: New bettors at BetWhale can unlock a 200% match up to $6,000 — one of the biggest welcome offers around. Others like MyBookie and Bovada follow closely with strong deposit matches and crypto perks.

Live Betting Tools: BetOnline leads the pack for in-play betting, with real-time stat graphics, dynamic odds, and even streaming support on selected events. It’s the most interactive way to wager as games unfold.

Custom Prop Bets: Bovada and MyBookie let you build your own player props and game combos, especially during NFL season. That means more control, more creativity, and often better odds.

Fast Crypto Withdrawals: If payout speed matters, SportsBetting.ag and BetWhale are standouts. Crypto payments get processed fast — sometimes within minutes — without high fees.

Niche Markets: From Valorant and Age of Empires at SportsBetting.ag to international horse races at MyBookie, these newer sportsbooks are digging deeper into niche and global markets most sites ignore.

How We Ranked the Best Online Sportsbooks

Sports & Betting Markets

Here’s where we look at the actual betting content of each online betting site. The more markets available, covering the wider range of sports, the better. It’s also important for these markets to come with competitive odds, so that we get more money for our betting wins.

Free Bets and Sportsbook Bonuses

A great way to put more bets down without having to spend as much money is to use free bets and other sportsbook bonuses and offers, such as deposit matches and boosted odds. All of these things can be very helpful to us sports bettors, just as long as the rollovers aren’t too high.

Banking & Payout Speed

Being able to pay at sports betting apps with a wide range of payment methods makes life easier for a wider range of people. Payment limits must also be fair to accommodate high rollers and casual players, and payouts should be processed swiftly and efficiently.

Sportsbook App

A top-tier sportsbook should offer a mobile experience that mirrors, or even goes beyond, the desktop version. The best sports betting apps provide fast load times, smooth navigation, and full access to betting markets, live streams, and account features. Whether you’re using a downloadable app or just betting through your mobile browser, the experience should run smoothly on both Android and iOS.

User Experience

This category covers everything from mobile compatibility to site design to customer support. All of these factors together can really make or break the sports betting experience at a site.

Customer Support

Ideally, you’ll never need to contact customer support — everything will just work perfectly. But it is still important to know that there is help if you ever need it.

We used similar criteria to rank the best betting apps in Georgia.

Sports Betting Apps VS. Mobile Betting

The rise of smartphones has revolutionized the sports betting industry, enabling bettors to engage with their favorite sports through sophisticated apps and browser-based betting sites.

These platforms ensure that users have access to a full range of betting options, secure account management, and reliable payment methods. Designed to work flawlessly on both Android and iOS devices, they replicate the desktop betting experience but with the added convenience of mobility.

Depending on the sportsbook you join, you may have access to a downloadable app or have to place bets through the default browser-based mobile site. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the two:

Mobile Sports Betting

Even if a sportsbook lacks an app, you can still place bets on your mobile device by accessing the site through your browser. In most cases, the mobile site is optimized for smaller screens and offers most of the features found on the desktop version.

While mobile betting sites may not offer the same smooth experience as a dedicated app, they still provide plenty of advantages. You don’t need to download any additional software, and if you’re using fast internet and a reliable browser, loading speeds and lag shouldn’t be an issue.

Sports Betting Apps

With the expansion of legalized sports betting, downloadable mobile apps have become a crucial part of the sports betting landscape. They not only allow bettors to place wagers from anywhere but also provide features like live streaming and real-time sports updates.

The best betting apps also come with other key benefits, like rapid load times and quick login, which help ensure you’re always in the action without missing a beat.

This level of accessibility and integration makes mobile betting a go-to choice for sports fans looking to capitalize on live events as they happen. Most mobile sportsbook apps offer these capabilities, enhancing the overall user experience and keeping bettors connected with every play.

Tips, Tricks, and Strategies for Online Sports Bettors

Look for the Best Quality Odds

The best sports betting sites are all going to have good odds in general, but some are likely to bet better than others when it comes to certain sports. If you have a particular sport that you like to bet on more than others, then be sure to do some research to find out which site is best for it.

Don’t Cash Out Too Easily

It can be tempting to cash out when the pressure of live betting gets intense. But a lot of the time, it’s best to try and hold your nerve. Don’t be too trigger-happy with cash outs, as you might lose out on some cash.

Grab a Few Welcome Offers

Welcome bonuses are typically the biggest sports betting bonuses, as they are offered by sportsbooks to attract new players. The best part? You can use them to get free bets and bonus credits for your sports wagers. Be sure to take full advantage!

Don’t Miss Out on Boosted Odds and Bonus Bets

A lot of online sports betting sites will give players the chance to boost their odds or get occasional free bets. Keep an eye on the promotions page of any sportsbook you sign up for to see what’s available. These are pretty common deals!

Bet On the Sports You Know Best

Don’t waste money betting on sports you don’t know much about. You’re going to have a much better chance of winning if you focus on the sports you know most about. The more you keep up to date with a sport, the better position you’ll be in to predict the eventualities of each game.

Practice Responsible Gambling at All Times

Online gambling is meant to be about having fun, not chasing your losses. To help yourself stop this from happening, it’s a good idea to use safe gambling tools. Deposit limits can help you stay in control of your spending, and time checks can prevent you from wasting the clock away.

For more information, read our TX sports betting guide where we compare online and in-person betting.

What is the No. 1 Online Sports Betting App?

Right now, BetWhale stands tall as the best sports betting app on the market. With a slick mobile interface, thousands of daily markets, and a massive $6,000 welcome bonus, it’s built to deliver the full sportsbook experience on the go.

But it’s not just about looks and speed. What really sets BetWhale apart is the depth of its features. You get a custom prop builder, real-time Twitch streams, and easy access to 20+ sports, all from your phone.

Sports to Bet on at the Best Betting Websites

When it comes to online sports betting, the variety of sports you can bet on plays a crucial role in the experience.

The best betting websites offer a wide range of sports, catering to fans of mainstream competitions as well as niche sports fans. Here are the most popular sports to place bets on:

Soccer

Soccer reigns as the king of sports betting worldwide. The best sites provide extensive coverage of football events, from the prestigious FIFA World Cup and UEFA Champions League to regional leagues like the EPL and La Liga. Betting options are vast, including everything from match results and player performance to intricate in-game occurrences like corners and cards.

Football

Football offers great action and is a staple at new sports betting sites. The NFL, with its Super Bowl online betting experience, dominates the market, but college football is also incredibly popular. Bettors enjoy a wide range of betting options, including point spreads, money lines, totals, and props like touchdowns scored and yards gained.

Basketball

With its fast-paced action and frequent scoring, basketball is a favorite among bettors. The best online betting sites offer comprehensive coverage of NBA seasons, the EuroLeague, and other international championships.

Markets often include point spreads, over/under scores, and player props, such as points scored, rebounds, and assists, making every game an exciting betting opportunity.

Tennis

Tennis betting is unique due to its year-round tournament schedule and head-to-head nature. The top sports betting sites that excel in tennis betting provide extensive market selections for Grand Slams, ATP, WTA, and even Challenger events.

Esports

The rising star of the sports betting world, esports, attracts a younger demographic with games like League of Legends, CS2, and Dota 2. The best sites offer not just traditional win/loss bets but also detailed propositions such as first blood, map winners, and total kills.

Top Bonus Offers at Online Sportsbooks

Online sportsbooks love rewarding both new and loyal players with a variety of bonuses. Here’s a look at the most popular types you’ll come across.

No Deposit Bonus

No-deposit bonuses are popular but not very common, and they often come with strict conditions. These offers give you a small amount of free credit, like a $10 bet, just for creating an account, without needing to deposit anything. However, they usually have higher rollover requirements or tighter restrictions than other types of bonuses. You’ll also see them more frequently in online casinos, where they often take the form of free spins.

Welcome Bonus

A welcome bonus is the biggest incentive you’ll see when joining new online bookmakers. Typically, it comes as a deposit match, meaning the site will match a percentage of your first deposit with bonus funds you can bet with. For example, you might see a 200% match up to $6,000 at top sites like BetWhale. These bonuses are an easy way to boost your bankroll right out of the gate, and they often have much friendlier rollover requirements than no-deposit offers.

Cashback Bonuses

Cashback bonuses are designed to soften the blow when your bets don’t go your way. With this promo, a sportsbook will refund a percentage of your net losses over a set period, usually a week or a month. For example, you might get 10% back on losses up to $500. The refunded amount often comes as site credit or free bets, giving you another shot to turn things around without making a fresh deposit.

Reload Bonus

Reload bonuses work a lot like welcome bonuses, but they’re available to existing users at the best online betting apps when you top up your account. The best sportsbook promos can range from a 25% to 75% match on your deposit and are often tied to specific days of the week or special events. They’re a great incentive to keep betting regularly, and many sportsbooks run reload offers alongside contests and leaderboard promotions.

Odds Boosts

Odds boosts are one of the simplest and most popular promos you’ll find. With an odds boost, the sportsbook increases the payout potential on selected bets, meaning you can score bigger winnings without risking more money. These offers typically apply to high-profile games or parlays, and they’re updated daily. Keep an eye on the sports betting promotions page so you don’t miss out on extra value for your picks.

Pros and Cons of Sports Betting Online

The best sports betting apps online come with plenty of advantages compared to betting in person, but they aren’t without a few downsides. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons to help you decide if they’re the right fit for your betting habits.

Top Benefits of Betting Sites

Better Odds and Higher Payouts: Since online sportsbooks don’t have the same overhead costs as physical bookmakers, they can usually offer the best sports betting odds. For example, you might see +120 online compared to +110 at a retail sportsbook—a difference that really adds up over time.

More Generous Bonuses: Online platforms consistently outshine brick-and-mortar sportsbooks when it comes to promotions. From big welcome offers to regular reload bonuses, the range of incentives is simply broader online.

Cryptocurrency Options: The best sports betting apps accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, giving you access to faster withdrawals, minimal fees, and often larger bonus offers.

Convenience: Perhaps the biggest perk, online betting sites are open around the clock. You can place wagers anytime, anywhere, without the hassle of traveling to a retail location.

Potential Drawbacks

Slower Withdrawals: Unlike retail sportsbooks where you get paid on the spot, online withdrawals, especially by bank transfer, can take days or even weeks. If you prefer faster cashouts, using crypto is usually the quickest option.

Less Social Interaction: Some sports bettors enjoy the atmosphere and camaraderie of in-person wagering. While many betting sites have community features and chat options, it’s not quite the same as sharing the experience face to face.

Popular Bet Types at Top Sports Betting Sites

If you’re new to online sports betting, knowing the main wager types can make all the difference. Below is a fresh look at some of the most common bets you’ll encounter at licensed sportsbooks.

Moneyline

A moneyline bet is as straightforward as it gets; you’re picking which team or player will win. Odds come with a plus or minus sign, showing whether a side is favored or considered the underdog.

For example, odds of -140 on Team A mean you’d need to stake $140 to win $100. On the other hand, +120 on Team B means a $100 bet would return $120 if they pull off the win.

Point Spread

Also called spread betting, this option is designed to even out the perceived gap between two teams. The favorite “gives” points, while the underdog “gets” them. Say the Warriors are listed at -6.5 against the Knicks.

They need to win by 7 or more points for your bet to cash. If you back the Knicks at +6.5, they can win outright or lose by fewer than 7 points for you to win.

Totals (Over/Under)

Here, you’re betting on the combined score of both sides, not who wins. Sportsbooks set a predicted number, and you choose whether the actual total will go over or under that figure. If a football game’s total is 45.5, an “Over” bet wins if 46 or more points are scored, while an “Under” bet wins with 45 or fewer points.

Parlays

Parlays link multiple picks into a single wager, multiplying both the potential payout and the risk. Every selection, or “leg”, in the parlay must be correct for you to win.

For instance, you might combine: the Celtics to win, the Dodgers to hit the over, and the Chiefs to cover the spread. One miss, and the whole ticket loses, but hit all three, and the payout is far bigger than placing each bet on its own.

Prop Bets

Proposition bets focus on specific game events rather than the overall score. These can be tied to player performance (like how many goals a striker scores) or in-game moments (such as the first team to call a timeout).

Big events like the Super Bowl are famous for creative prop markets, from guessing the first touchdown scorer to predicting the color of the Gatorade poured on the winning coach.

If you want to learn about online casino games instead, you can check out our guide to the leading Virginia online casinos.

Understanding How Betting Odds Function

Betting odds show both how likely an outcome is and how much you can win if your bet is successful. There are three main ways odds are displayed: American (moneyline), decimal, and fractional formats.

American odds use positive and negative numbers. A negative figure, like -150, means that’s the amount you’d need to bet to win $100. A positive number, such as +130, shows how much profit you’d make on a $100 bet.

Decimal odds are widely used in Europe and Australia. They represent the total payout, including your original stake. For example, odds of 2.50 mean a $100 wager would pay out $250 in total.

Fractional odds are most common in the UK. These show your profit compared to your stake. For instance, 5/1 odds mean you’ll earn $5 for every $1 you bet.

Secure Payment Methods at the Best Online Betting Sites

With the growth of legalized online sports betting, ensuring secure payment methods has become a critical concern for both bettors and betting platforms. Bettors want assurance that their financial transactions are safe and confidential.

Here’s a closer look at some of the most trusted payment methods offered by numerous betting sites to guarantee both security and convenience.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards remain the most common form of payment at the best betting apps. They offer a straightforward way to deposit and withdraw funds, and they have built-in security features like fraud protection and encryption.

Major brands like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted, making them a reliable choice for bettors around the world.

E-Wallets

E-wallets provide a secure and fast way to manage sports betting funds without directly using your bank account. Services like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller allow users to deposit money into their betting accounts instantly.

These platforms also add an extra layer of security, as they do not require sharing personal banking details with the betting sites.

Cryptocurrencies

As online wagering continues to evolve, cryptocurrencies are becoming increasingly popular for their privacy and anonymity. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, among others, offer decentralized transactions that are both secure and fast.

The best online betting apps that accept cryptocurrencies often promote reduced transaction fees and quicker withdrawal times, appealing to tech-savvy bettors.

Bank Transfers

Bank transfers are a reliable method for those who prefer a more traditional approach when using the best sports gambling apps. Although slower than other options, bank transfers provide a high level of security and are supported by rigorous banking regulations.

State Guide to Legal Online Sports Betting

Online sports betting laws in the U.S. vary widely from state to state, so knowing the local rules is essential before placing a wager. Some states have fully legalized online betting, others only allow in-person wagers at licensed sportsbooks, and a few still prohibit it altogether.

Understanding the landscape helps you choose the right platform and ensures you’re betting legally and responsibly.

Florida: Florida’s sports betting market has been through several legal challenges, but it’s now possible to wager online through select, state-approved platforms. The available Florida betting sites are limited, but they offer competitive odds, mobile apps, and coverage of popular sports like the NFL, NBA, and college football. Because the market is still developing, options may expand in the coming years.

Texas: Texas does not currently allow online sports betting, though the topic remains under discussion among lawmakers. Residents looking to bet legally must travel to neighboring states where sports betting is permitted or use in-person horse racing and fantasy sports options within Texas.

Minnesota: Minnesota has yet to fully legalize online sports betting, though tribal and legislative negotiations are ongoing. For now, sports betting in Minnesota is limited to in-person wagering at tribal casinos and betting on horse races – plus, there are various offshore sites that accept local bettors.

Georgia: Georgia does not currently have legal sports betting. Previous legislative attempts have stalled, though proposals continue to resurface. Until changes are made, residents interested in wagering must travel to nearby states where online and retail sportsbooks are available, or go with offshore bookies.

Best Betting Sites – FAQs

Is Online Sports Betting Safe?

Yes, gambling is generally safe as long as bettors stick to licensed, reputable, and legal sports betting sites.

Whether you’re betting in Europe, America, or another continent, always make sure the safest online betting sites you join are licensed to operate, as these licensors make sure the sites play fairly.

What Is the Best Sports Betting Site?

BetWhale is the best sports betting site overall. It has the best combination of banking options, bonus offers, and sports betting markets with competitive odds.

Can I Bet on Sports Live?

Yes, most online sportsbooks let users bet on sports live, and we found that the best place to do this is at BetOnline.

Can I Use My Mobile Device at Online Bookmakers?

Yes, there are lots of great mobile sports betting sites out there. All of our top picks, like BetWhale, BetOnline, and Bovada, can be easily used for mobile betting.

How To Sign Up at the Sports Betting Online Sites

We’ve put together a simple guide to help you sign up for our top recommendation, BetWhale. You can use similar steps for our other picks, though.

Step 1: Locate the Signup Form

Go to BetWhale’s homepage and find the signup form.
Read and agree to the site’s terms and conditions.
Enter a few personal details.

Step 2: Verify Your Identity

Press the link in the email sent out by BetWhale.
Upload a copy of your ID as instructed.
Wait for the team to verify this.

Step 3: Fund Your Account

Choose a payment method in the cashier.
Enter an amount that qualifies for the welcome offer.
Type in the promo code and proceed with the payment.

Step 4: Start Betting Online

Head into the sportsbook.
Use your welcome offer as per the terms.
Play through the rollover and proceed to cash out.

So, What Are the Best Online Sports Betting Sites?

We’re lucky to have had access to legalized online sports betting across much of the world for quite a few years now. In that time, more fantastic sportsbooks have popped up, increasing competition and boosting the overall user experience.

Now, we have access to better odds than ever, stronger bonuses, and better betting tools. And the site that combines all of these things the best is BetWhale — but only just about. Many of the other sites we’ve listed are hot on its tail and still worth checking out.

So, why not try out a few of these sports betting options? And when you do that, make sure to get those welcome bonuses. But be sure to gamble responsibly at all times!

Important information for our readers:

Participation is restricted to adults 21+.

Gambling carries financial risk and may lead to addiction.

Never gamble with money you can’t afford to lose.

Check your local laws to confirm online gambling is allowed where you live.

If you need help, call 1‑800‑GAMBLER for free, confidential support any time.

More details: https://www.ncpgambling.org/

Recount Confirms Democratic Primary Results in New Jersey’s 39th District

Moses Lookman

August 15, 2025

A recount of the June Democratic primary results for the New Jersey General Assembly in the 39th Legislative District confirmed that Andrew LaBruno and Donna Abene will remain the Democratic nominees for the November 4 general election. The recount began on August 4 at the request of David Jiang, who had finished third in the initial count with 8,317 votes, trailing Abene by 137 votes.

Following the recount, which involved hand-counting ballots, Jiang gained 12 votes for a total of 8,329, while Abene gained six votes, bringing her total to 8,460 and leaving her ahead by 131 votes. LaBruno, the top vote-getter, increased his total from 9,137 to 9,143, and Damon Englese, who finished fourth, saw his total rise from 6,137 to 6,149. Only the first- and second-place finishers will appear on the November ballot, where they will face Republican incumbents Robert Auth and John Azzariti Jr.

Key Takeaways

David Jiang gained 12 votes but stayed 131 votes behind Donna Abene after the recount.
The recount cost about $20,000, with Jiang paying roughly $2,500.
This was the first district-wide recount in the 39th District in at least 14 years.

Recount Process and Results

Bergen County Board of Elections Chairman Richard Miller stated that the changes in vote totals came from vote-by-mail ballots, which are scanned by machines. Ballots that were not filled in firmly enough might not have been detected by scanners, but hand-counting during the recount allowed election workers to determine voter intent.

The recount took place over three days and included more than 8,000 vote-by-mail ballots and provisional ballots from all 28 towns in the district. Two teams of election workers performed the count, and a designated commissioner cross-checked the names and ballots. Vote tallies changed by at least one vote in 13 municipalities, while 16 municipalities saw no change. According to Miller, this was the first district-wide recount in at least 14 years. The new totals were scheduled to be certified on August 7.

Legal Proceedings and Costs

Superior Court Judge Kelly Conlon initially denied a full recount during a court hearing but later signed an order for all votes to be recounted. After a partial recount on Tuesday, Jiang had picked up 14 votes; the final count after the complete recount reflected a gain of 12.

The Board of Elections covered about $20,000 of the recount cost. A candidate who requests a recount must pay a percentage of the total, and Jiang’s share was approximately $2,500. Miller said the raw vote gap was large, but the margin represented only 0.43% of the total vote.

Candidate Affiliations and District Background

LaBruno and Jiang ran on a slate with Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop during his campaign for the Democratic nomination for governor, while Abene and Englese ran with the endorsement of the Bergen County Democratic organization. In the June primary, Mikie Sherrill won the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, and Jack Ciattarelli won the Republican nomination.

The 39th Legislative District is composed of the Bergen County municipalities of Allendale, Alpine, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Dumont, Emerson, Harrington Park, Haworth, Hillsdale, Ho-Ho-Kus, Mahwah, Midland Park, Montvale, Northvale, Norwood, Oakland, Old Tappan, Park Ridge, Ramsey, River Vale, Rockleigh, Saddle River, Upper Saddle River, Waldwick, Washington Township, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake. Democrats have not won the district since 1977.

Hoboken High School Recognizes Record 105 AP Scholars in 2024–2025

Moses Lookman

August 15, 2025

In the 2024–2025 academic year, Hoboken High School in Hoboken, New Jersey, honored 105 students for their performance on Advanced Placement (AP) exams. This is the highest number of AP Scholars in the school’s history and represents a sharp rise from 2019 when only seven students received the designation.

The AP Scholar designations are awarded by the College Board to students who have demonstrated college-level achievement through AP courses and exams. These awards are recognized internationally and can lead to college credit, advanced placement, or both.

Key Takeaways

Hoboken High School recognized 105 AP Scholars in 2024–2025, the highest in its history.
Awards span all AP Scholar categories, with a first-ever AP International Diploma recipient, Natasha Anderson.
The district has grown from 7 AP Scholars in 2019 to 105 in 2025 through strategic curriculum and support initiatives.

AP Scholars with Distinction

Forty students earned the AP Scholar with Distinction award by maintaining an average AP exam score of at least 3.5 and achieving scores of 3 or higher on five or more exams. The honorees were:

Kely Aguilar, Natasha Anderson, Amalia M. Batlle, Mariacarla Bettocchi, Gabriel O. Brody, Sarah A. Burns, Alison J. Chavez, Ian F. Crespi, Emily S. Critz, Lucas C. Daly, Louise F. Dirkx, Hayley R. Dobson, Genevieve G. Fink, Tasha Fu, Samantha R. Gotimer, Aleksander E. Gray, Arya R. Khanna, Alexander Koulouthros, Jacob R. Kriegel, Katherine J. Laurens, Jacob B. Linder, Zoe Magaletta, Maya Mankoff, Lila A. McDonough, Sasha M. Mechaley, Hannah Y. Morley, Kodi I. Pfeiffer, Anna Rekeda, Maximo Rua Espada, Addison Rumph, Annelien Schissler, Maxim Schissler, Abigail T. Scott, Jenna T. Sirio, Camila A. Suarez, Max H. Tang, Emma A. Van Handle, Edinson J. Villacis, Madison Walia-Peters, and Morgan Walia-Peters.

AP Scholars with Honor

Ten students earned the AP Scholar with Honor recognition. This award requires an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken, with scores of 3 or higher on a minimum of four exams. The recipients were:

Miles J. Angley, Yuselin Dominguez, Sophie Katz, Kayla A. Koines, Nate Lerner, Jai Malik, Cecilia M. Platt, Meghan J. Stehli, Sava Tomin, and Alexis N. Zoltak.

AP Scholars

Thirty-two students received the AP Scholar award for earning scores of 3 or higher on at least three AP exams. These students were:

Anthony L. Barahona, Daniel J. Baruchin, Azaad S. Bhalla, Yonatan H. Brutman, Logan J. Calingasan, Rafael S. Callamari, Gissell D. Calle, Valentina Castellon Ardon, Sophia M. Castiglione, Rebecca G. Crespi, Jayla J. Dale, Paz A. De La Torre, Emily A. Eisen, Jordyn A. Eisen, Carolina Fernandez, Abigail Foux, Brianna M. Frias, Noah A. Gibbs-Garcia, Erica B. Goodman, Sophie Katz, Nova Korman, Jai Malik, Ava D. Pinn, Mark Pitino, Sophie Pitino, Derrick M. Pytel, Faith V. Ranghel-Lee, Arjan S. Samrai, Claire L. Snider, Grayson A. Stier, Sylvie R. Strell, Leah L. Vera Cruz, and Corinna M. Wilder.

AP Capstone and International Diplomas

Twenty-one students were awarded the AP Capstone Diploma for completing both AP Seminar and AP Research courses:

Natasha Anderson, Mariacarla Bettocchi, Valentina Castellon Ardon, Alison J. Chavez, Emily S. Critz, Lucas C. Daly, Louise F. Dirkx, Abigail Foux, Tasha Fu, Samantha R. Gotimer, Arya R. Khanna, Maya Mankoff, Lila A. McDonough, Sasha M. Mechaley, Hannah Y. Morley, Addison Rumph, Jenna T. Sirio, Grayson A. Stier, Camila A. Suarez, and Emma A. Van Handle.

Sophie Katz earned the AP Seminar and Research Certificate for completing both courses without fulfilling the full diploma requirements.

Senior Natasha Anderson became the first student at Hoboken High School to receive the AP International Diploma, which reflects academic performance aligned with international university admission standards.

District Growth and Program Expansion

According to district records, the increase from seven AP Scholars in 2019 to 105 in 2025 is connected to targeted investments in curriculum expansion, teacher training, scheduling flexibility, and academic counseling.

The AP Capstone program, offered by the College Board, focuses on skills such as research, analysis, evidence-based argument, collaboration, writing, and presenting. The number of Hoboken High students earning the Capstone Diploma rose from four three years ago to twenty-one in the 2024–2025 school year.

Mets’ Skid Grows to Seven as Carlos Mendoza Sees Montas Pulled Early in Milwaukee

Paulius Kundzelevicius

August 14, 2025

On Saturday, August 9, 2025, at American Family Field in Milwaukee, the New York Mets used Reed Garrett as an opener against the Milwaukee Brewers to avoid Frankie Montas’ first-inning struggles, and Garrett retired all three batters in the first inning. Montas entered in the second, gave up consecutive one-out singles, issued a two-out walk to load the bases, and saw a fielding error by shortstop Francisco Lindor bring in two runs.

In the third inning, Montas issued a walk and threw a wild pitch, but did not give up a run, then in the fourth inning, Brice Turang hit a solo home run, his second in consecutive games. Montas threw 72 pitches over three innings, surrendering three runs (one earned) on three hits and two walks.

The outing forced the Mets to use high-leverage relievers Gregory Soto and Tyler Rogers earlier than planned, and including Garrett, they used six pitchers in the game, which ended in a 7-4 Brewers win and the Mets’ sixth straight loss.

Key Takeaways

Frankie Montas lasted only three innings after following opener Reed Garrett, allowing three runs (one earned) as his Mets ERA rose to 6.38 in eight outings.
The Mets blew a 6-1 lead in a 7-6 loss to the Brewers, their seventh straight defeat, falling 5.5 games behind the Phillies in the NL East.
Mets starters have gone 51 consecutive games without two different pitchers reaching six innings, forcing the bullpen to throw 209.2 innings over the last 49 games.

Mendoza Addresses Montas’ Rotation Status

Before Sunday’s series finale in Milwaukee, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza was asked about Montas’ rotation status, saying, “We haven’t made a decision. As of now, he’s still in line. Have to get through today’s game… right now, we haven’t had any discussions.”

Carlos Mendoza is asked about the plan moving forward for Frankie Montas:

“We haven’t made a decision. As of now, he’s still in line. Have to get through today’s game…right now, we haven’t had any discussions.” pic.twitter.com/VP4yZTcDdK

— SNY (@SNYtv) August 10, 2025

Montas, 32, signed a two-year, $34 million contract with the Mets in the offseason, but a right lat strain during early spring training delayed his debut until the summer. In eight appearances (seven starts) with the Mets, he has a 6.38 ERA, a 1.56 WHIP, and 7.9 strikeouts per nine innings while giving up eight home runs in 36.2 innings, and during six minor league rehab starts, he had a 12.05 ERA and gave up eight home runs in 18.2 innings.

Rotation Options and Injury Updates

If the Mets change their rotation, Triple-A Syracuse pitchers Brandon Sproat and Nolan McLean are candidates, with Sproat giving up three runs over six innings on Thursday, August 7, and McLean pitching four innings of one-run ball on Sunday, August 10, in his first start on four days’ rest this season.

Veteran Paul Blackburn, recovering from a right shoulder impingement, gave up three runs (two earned) over 5.2 innings in his fourth rehab start for Syracuse on Friday, and in six games (four starts) with the Mets this season, he is 0-3 with a 7.71 ERA and a 1.98 WHIP. Tylor Megill, recovering from a right elbow sprain, threw live batting practice on Thursday and may soon begin a rehab assignment. And in 14 starts this year, he is 5-5 with a 3.95 ERA and a 1.36 WHIP.

Mets Lose Lead in Series Finale Against Brewers

On Sunday, August 10, 2025, the Mets lost 7-6 to the Brewers after leading 6-1, as Milwaukee tied the game 6-6 in the eighth inning and Isaac Collins hit a walk-off home run off Edwin Díaz in the ninth. The loss was the Mets’ seventh in a row and 11th in their last 12 games, dropping them 5.5 games behind the first-place Philadelphia Phillies. Mendoza said, “It’s hard to describe. Tough, frustrating. But we’ve got to turn the page. We have to keep going. We have to find a way to start getting victories. That wasn’t a good showing. They pretty much outplayed us.”

Betting Market Movement During Losing Streak

For Tuesday, August 12, 2025, against the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field, multiple sportsbooks list the Mets as slight favorites with moneyline odds around -140, totals set at 8 runs, and the run line at Mets -1.5 near +150, with FanDuel and DraftKings listing similar numbers and Oddsshark projecting a close score simulation slightly favoring Atlanta.

In World Series futures, BetMGM lists the Mets at +1400, VegasInsider’s consensus lists them at +1000, and FanDuel recently had them near +850; in December 2024, after signing Juan Soto, their odds moved to +800 at DraftKings and FanDuel, and Caesars’ opening post-2024 line had the Mets at +700.

Slumps Among Key Hitters

Francisco Lindor is batting .191 with a .602 OPS over his last 50 games since June 12, Pete Alonso — who tied Darryl Strawberry for second on the Mets’ all-time home run list with 252 — is batting .168 with a .593 OPS over his last 26 games, Brandon Nimmo has struck out 26 times in his last 58 at-bats and has a .476 OPS with a .269 on-base percentage, and Juan Soto is batting .189 with a .757 OPS over his last 25 games.

Nimmo said, “We can go on a run. We’ve still got time. It just takes putting it together, playing some good baseball. I don’t think the division is slipping away. We’re still within shot. This team specifically has been known to go on runs. We can easily rattle off a winning streak, especially with the people we got here. But it’s going to take turning it around.”

Rotation Struggles and Bullpen Usage

Mets starting pitchers have gone 51 consecutive games without two different pitchers recording at least six innings in a start, the longest single-season streak since at least 1901, and since June 13, Mets starters have pitched 220 innings while the bullpen has pitched 209.2 innings.

Mendoza said, “We saw [Taylor] Rogers a third day in a row [on Sunday]. We’re asking a lot of the bullpen. Reed Garrett, before you know it, he’s pitching in the fifth inning [after opening on Saturday]. Raley went two ups on Friday, he’s not available [Saturday], and then we ask him to pitch a full inning [Sunday]. We have to get our starters going.”

Current Standings and Remaining Schedule

The Mets are 19-31 in their last 50 games, the third-worst record in the majors over that span, and hold the final NL Wild Card position 1.5 games ahead of the Cincinnati Reds. They will face the Phillies seven more times, beginning later in August at Citi Field, and will next play the Atlanta Braves, who recently won four of five games against the Miami Marlins.

Mendoza said, “We just gotta go out and do it. We have the talent, we have the players, but we have to start playing better baseball and just go out and get the job done. I know it’s frustrating, we’re all frustrated in here, but we just have to keep going because nobody said it was going to be easy.”

Yankees Manager Aaron Boone Defends Team After 7-1 Loss to Astros

Paulius Kundzelevicius

August 14, 2025

On Sunday, August 11, 2024, the New York Yankees lost 7-1 to the Houston Astros at Yankee Stadium. The defeat was the Yankees’ seventh in their last ten games. Manager Aaron Boone was removed from the contest in the third inning after disputing a strike call.

Speaking to reporters afterward, Boone stressed that the Yankees remain in postseason contention despite two months of poor results.

“The game is littered with dead and buried teams,” Boone told The Athletic. “We’re in playoff position right now. We’ve been through two bad months where we haven’t performed at a level we need to. Go back the year before, the year before, you can pick out a number of teams that are sitting in a worse position than we are right now that go on a run. We have the people to do that, no doubt in my mind. It’s just sitting here as talk right now.”

He contrasted this year’s circumstances with the 2023 season, when he did not think the team could mount the surge required to compete.

“We haven’t been good enough the last two months. This is different than ’23 where I didn’t think we were necessarily capable of that run that we needed to really get hot. We were out of it at that point. This is different. We’re in a position right now where we’re in control of things. We’re in a playoff spot, technically. I believe we have the people to get it done. We got to play consistent baseball, period.”

Following the loss, New York was ahead of the Cleveland Guardians by half a game for the American League’s final wild-card berth.

Key Takeaways

The Yankees have lost 7 of their last 10 games, including a 7-1 loss to the Astros on August 11, 2024, but remain a half-game ahead of the Cleveland Guardians for the final AL wild-card position.
Aaron Boone was ejected for the fifth time in 2024 during the August 11 game and continues to express confidence in the team, with Joe Torre and Jorge Posada publicly defending him.
The Yankees are without Gerrit Cole, Clarke Schmidt, Oswaldo Cabrera, and several relievers due to injury, and Aaron Judge missed games earlier in the season.

Boone’s Position and Player Availability

Ethan Sears of the New York Post reported that Boone could face significant questions about his position if the Yankees do not reach the postseason.

At the Yankees’ annual “Old-Timers’ Day” on Saturday, August 10, 2024, Hall of Fame manager Joe Torre said Boone would get a run out of these guys. Former Yankees catcher Jorge Posada said, “It’s not his fault.”

Posada said some players are not at 100% health.

“He’s got some guys banged up, not at 100 percent. So it’s not his fault that some guys are not playing at their potential. … Obviously, they went through a stretch, lost a lot of key guys. Health really matters.”

Among the team’s injuries, Gerrit Cole has been out since before the season started, Luis Gil only recently made his debut, and Clarke Schmidt and Oswaldo Cabrera have been ruled out for the year. Several relievers are sidelined, and Aaron Judge has missed games earlier in the season.

Betting Lines and Futures Odds

Futures odds from major sportsbooks placed the Yankees between +800 and +1400 to win the World Series. BetMGM listed the Yankees at +800. ESPN’s latest snapshot listed the Yankees at +1400.

For the Tuesday, August 12, 2024, home game against the Minnesota Twins, BetMGM’s line on Monday was Yankees -175. On game day, lines at DraftKings, FanDuel, and Caesars moved to Yankees -220, Twins +178, with a total of 9 runs (Over -116 / Under -105). The Yankees were -1.5 runs at -105.

In American League MVP betting markets, Aaron Judge was listed as the favorite, with prices between -125 and -150 depending on the sportsbook. Seattle Mariners player Cal Raleigh was next, near even money.

On Monday, August 10, 2024, the Yankees beat the Twins 6-2. In that game, the Yankees hit four solo home runs. Starting pitcher Will Warren threw 6⅔ innings, allowed 3 hits, recorded 7 strikeouts, and did not issue a walk.

Boone’s Fifth 2024 Ejection

In the third inning on August 11, Boone argued a low strike call from pitcher Jason Alexander to Ryan McMahon. Plate umpire Derek Thomas told him, “I’ve heard you enough Aaron,” before ejecting him. Boone continued the discussion for about one minute before third base umpire Jordan Baker intervened, and McMahon’s at-bat resumed, ending with a flyout to center field.

The Astros were leading 2-0 at the time. In the fifth, Cam Smith hit a two-run double after Atlanta pitcher Max Fried did not receive a called third strike, increasing the lead to 4-0.

“It definitely would have been nice,” Fried said. “No one’s going to look back and really care. You got to be able to make the pitch and get out of it.”

Houston went on to win 7-1. Boone later said,

“It was the first couple of innings. I was on him a lot. That’s over and done with and it is what it is and that isn’t the reason we lost this game.”

This was Boone’s fifth ejection of 2024 and the 44th since he became Yankees manager in 2018. He was ejected six times last season.

Is Online Gambling a Gateway to Tech Careers? Local Colleges and Startups Bet on It

Lucia Schettino

August 13, 2025

Online Gambling a Gateway to Tech Careers

As tech reshapes the job market, some of the most unexpected ideas are gaining traction. The notion that skills from online gambling could translate into NJ tech careers sounds provocative, but in some classrooms and startups, it’s already being tested. Not as a gimmick, but as a genuine response to how people learn, think, and make decisions under pressure.

What’s unfolding isn’t a glamorization of gambling — it’s a shift in how we value real-time strategy, risk analysis, and adaptability. In an industry obsessed with data and speed, the line between gaming and work is blurring. And for students and job seekers, especially in New Jersey, that opens new doors — not just to coding roles, but to the growing world of online gambling industry jobs in analytics, UX, and platform design.

It’s not a silver bullet, and it’s definitely not a shortcut. But it might be a signal: the skills people build outside the classroom, in games, in simulations, even in bets, are finally being seen for what they are. Useful. Transferable. And maybe worth a second look.

The Billion-Dollar Betting Industry Meets Tech

Online gambling isn’t just surviving, it’s exploding. Once dismissed as a fringe activity or a digital vice, the global online gambling and betting market has matured into a tech-fueled juggernaut. According to data from IMGL and Harvard Business Review, the market was valued at $58.2 billion in 2021 and is projected to surge past $145 billion by 2030. That’s not a slow creep, it’s a 12% compound annual growth rate. And behind the spinning wheels and flashing reels? A lot of code, algorithms, and data science.

This isn’t just Vegas with better servers. Online gambling today operates more like a fintech product than a casino floor. With dynamic odds engines, AI-driven risk models, and personalized user experiences, the tech behind the industry rivals that of high-frequency trading platforms or streaming services. It’s fast, reactive, and built for optimization at scale.

Startups have taken notice. According to Tracxn, there were 285 gambling-tech startups operating in the U.S. as of early 2025, with five new ones entering the space just in the first quarter. Many of them aren’t traditional operators; they’re building infrastructure, analytics tools, gamified finance platforms, and user experience layers. Think Stripe for sweepstakes, or Discord for live poker.

What’s fascinating is how these companies are rethinking talent. While most tech startups hunt for bootcamp grads or ex-FAANG engineers, gambling-tech startups are widening the net. There’s a growing belief that strategic gamblers — people who thrive on probabilities, fast data, and behavioral reads — might already have the intuition these companies need. No formal training required, just a brain wired for the game.

And this shift isn’t just about novelty hiring practices. It reflects a broader truth: online gambling has become a testing ground for the same skills that tech companies value, decision-making under pressure, user flow analysis, and predictive modeling. It’s not about glorifying the bet. It’s about recognizing the backend systems — and the brains — that make it all tick.

What Skills Translate?

Gambling and tech may seem worlds apart, one the domain of flashing slot machines, the other of keyboards and clean code. But look closer, and you’ll find similar demands: pattern recognition, risk-taking, adaptability, and focus. As new research piles up, it’s clear that the gap between high-stakes gameplay and high-performance careers is smaller than we thought.

Thinking on Your Feet (and Fast)

A massive study analyzing data from 16,000+ gamers found that different games sharpen different thinking styles. Strategic titles built logic and problem-solving; role-playing games cultivated planning and coordination, traits common in managers and team leads. Gamers weren’t just escaping reality; they were rehearsing for it.

In online gambling, these same cognitive muscles are in play. Whether you’re making a last-second call on a blackjack hand or adjusting your bets in a volatile crypto casino, you’re thinking fast under pressure. That kind of mental agility is prized in startup environments where decisions happen in real time, often with incomplete data.

Reading the Patterns

Winning players, especially in skill-based games like poker or sports betting, don’t rely on luck. They observe, identify patterns, and act accordingly. Spotting when another player bluffs? That’s behavioral analysis. Knowing when odds quietly shift in your favor? That’s real-time data tracking, not so different from A/B testing or UX research.

Harvard Business Review has highlighted how these same skills — intuitive pattern recognition, situational awareness, and attention to data — are vital in everything from cybersecurity to digital product design. A gambler may not call it “insights mining,” but that’s exactly what they’re doing.

Calculated Risk, Not Just Gut Feeling

If there’s one myth worth debunking, it’s that gamblers are reckless. In reality, long-term winners are masters of calculated risk. They know their bankroll, understand variance, and act when probability aligns with opportunity. They’re not guessing, they’re analyzing.

That same discipline shows up in tech, especially among product managers, growth strategists, and startup founders. Should you launch the feature now or test it longer? Should you spend budget on ads or redesign the homepage? Every move has upside and risk, and the people who thrive are those who’ve trained themselves to make calls when the future isn’t guaranteed.

It’s Not All Solo Play

While we often picture gamblers alone at their screen or table, many online gambling formats are deeply social. Poker rooms, fantasy sports leagues, even competitive casino tournaments, they all demand negotiation, reading opponents, and sometimes teaming up to outwit others.

A 2024 study in Taylor & Francis confirmed that collaborative gamers outperformed traditional learners in team tasks. These aren’t just “people skills” in a vague sense. They’re real-time communication tools, exactly the kind tech teams need to survive cross-functional meetings, feedback loops, and conflict resolution.

Adapting on the Fly

One week you’re mastering a game’s mechanics. The next, the rules change. That’s the nature of online gambling: platforms evolve, strategies get patched, and what worked yesterday might get you wiped out today. The best players don’t panic; they adapt.

That mindset is gold in tech. With product lifecycles accelerating and consumer behavior shifting constantly, adaptability has become one of the most prized traits in the job market. A recent Inside Higher Ed report even ranked it above technical proficiency for entry-level roles. Tech doesn’t care what you knew last year; it cares how fast you can learn now.

Mental Stamina Is Underrated

There’s something to be said for just staying in the game. Online gambling — especially long-form formats like tournaments or day-long betting events — demands not only focus, but emotional regulation. One loss can’t spiral into ten. One win can’t distract you. That’s discipline.

Tech is no less demanding. Developers, analysts, and creatives alike face long hours, shifting priorities, and endless troubleshooting. And burnout is real. But those who’ve trained their minds to handle pressure, to breathe through volatility, and to focus without cracking? They’re often the ones who don’t just survive, they thrive.

Colleges Are Rolling the Dice

A few years ago, if you told a college board that iGaming mechanics would end up in the classroom, they might’ve laughed you out of the room. Today? At least one New Jersey institution is embracing the overlap between gambling systems and tech training, and it’s doing so without apology. As part of a new pilot program, this college is experimenting with coursework that mirrors the decision-making logic of online gambling, real-time dashboards, simulated betting scenarios, and dynamic risk modeling.

This isn’t about turning students into gamblers. It’s about training them to think fast, assess data under pressure, and make calculated decisions when time and information are limited, core components of both gaming and modern tech work. The pilot ties directly into the college’s broader focus on gaming education NJ, which seeks to prepare students for roles in fintech, app development, and user experience design using unconventional methods.

Professor Maria Vega, who leads the Department of Digital Innovation, puts it bluntly: “Our students don’t need more theory, they need mental agility. And online gambling, when stripped down, is really a pressure simulator. It forces you to think clearly in chaos.” In her class, students might simulate a crypto market fluctuation or react to real-time shifts in user behavior, all while racing the clock and backing their decisions with data. It’s a far cry from multiple choice.

The approach reflects a wider trend: New Jersey is becoming a national leader in gaming and iGaming education infrastructure. A 2025 report from the state’s Responsible Gaming Task Force, backed by Governor Phil Murphy, even suggested incorporating gambling decision-making literacy into education frameworks. Meanwhile, NJ regulators have been early adopters of skill-based iGaming, approving digital games where chance and strategy blur, signaling a shift in how the industry and institutions view gambling systems: as teachable, deconstructable, and applicable beyond entertainment.

Early results from the program are encouraging. Students say they’ve grown more confident in reading live data, adapting strategies, and defending decisions, all pillars of iGaming skill development. One senior called it “analytics with adrenaline.” Another compared it to “real-world stress, without real-world consequences.” That controlled intensity seems to be the point: train the brain for volatility, before volatility trains you.

Naturally, there’s been pushback. Some faculty members worry about the optics, that it blurs the line between education and entertainment, or worse, gambling. But the college insists that ethics are baked into the program. “We’re not celebrating casinos,” a spokesperson clarified. “We’re deconstructing systems that millions interact with every day, and using those mechanics to teach critical thinking.”

Whether this becomes a model for other institutions remains to be seen. But in a state where both gaming and tech are booming, it makes a certain kind of sense. Gaming education in NJ is no longer about game design alone; it’s becoming a vehicle for training decision-makers, analysts, and product thinkers. In that light, a little simulated risk might be the smartest move of all.

Startups Spot the Potential

It’s not just colleges experimenting with the crossover between gambling and tech. Startups — especially those working in the iGaming, data science, and behavioral analytics space — are taking the idea and running with it. For many of them, the skillsets cultivated in strategic gaming environments aren’t just relevant. They’re a competitive edge. In an industry where instinct, agility, and data fluency rule the day, traditional résumés are starting to share space with betting histories and leaderboard screenshots.

A Burgeoning Ecosystem

As of early 2025, there are over 245 gambling-tech startups operating in the U.S., according to startup tracker Tracxn. And while the term “gambling-tech” might conjure images of slot machines in disguise, the reality is far broader: think real-time analytics platforms, odds engines powered by AI, and behavioral modeling tools used by sportsbooks and online casino apps. These are companies that live on the edge of entertainment and data science, and they need minds that can do the same.

Some of the most active players in this space are based in New Jersey, with Hudson County startups — including BetMGM’s Jersey City headquarters — helping turn the region into a growing hub for iGaming innovation and tech-driven betting platforms.

Betting Experience as a Hiring Signal

Some of these startups are no longer shy about where they source talent. BetAI Labs, for example — a startup developing AI-driven risk prediction models for sportsbooks — now explicitly looks for applicants with a background in strategic betting. “Players with experience in odds-making often demonstrate a rare mix of intuition and math,” says Javier Mendes, the company’s CTO. “It’s not about gambling habits. It’s about being able to read uncertainty like a language.”

From Hobby to Hiring Test

Other startups have taken it a step further: incorporating gaming-style assessments into their hiring process. Instead of a traditional logic test or take-home project, candidates might be asked to solve a live game simulation, participate in a betting-market scenario, or optimize a virtual bankroll. It’s part of a broader trend inspired by companies like Siemens, Walmart, and Unilever, which now use gamified hiring tools to evaluate traits like adaptability, cognitive speed, and emotional regulation.

Not Just Coders

What makes this shift interesting is how it stretches beyond engineering roles. UI/UX designers with experience in competitive gaming understand frictionless navigation under stress. Marketing leads who’ve played poker grasp behavioral hooks better than most. Even operations teams can benefit from the kind of probability fluency honed in games of chance and skill. For many of these startups, iGaming skill development isn’t a niche; it’s a foundational layer of their internal culture.

Gamified Tools, Real Impact

The startups themselves often use gamification internally, not just as product features, but as operational tools. At firms like OddsFrame and ReelSync, teams use real-time dashboards modeled after betting markets to manage OKRs and forecast pivots. It’s a subtle cultural cue: this company moves fast, rewards calculated risk, and isn’t afraid of volatility. Candidates who’ve thrived in competitive games — or even gambling settings — tend to find this environment more intuitive than intimidating.

Caveats and Criticisms

The buzz around gaming and gambling as training grounds for tech careers is loud—and in some cases, deserved. But not everyone is sold. Beneath the excitement, a quieter chorus of caution continues to raise important questions. What are the limits of these skills? Where do we draw the line between simulation and promotion? And most importantly, are we mistaking correlation for causation?

Correlation Isn’t a Career Plan

Multiple researchers, including those publishing on ResearchGate, warn against conflating behavioral patterns with professional readiness. Just because a gamer or strategic bettor demonstrates high-level decision-making in one domain doesn’t automatically translate to career success.

Yes, there are overlaps—but without formal training, credentials, or hands-on experience in tech, the leap from poker table to product team isn’t guaranteed. Pattern recognition is useful, but it’s not a substitute for education.

Not All Skills Travel Well

It’s tempting to view gaming as a Swiss Army knife of modern skills, but the data tells a more measured story. A 2025 study published in the International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education found that while sandbox gaming significantly boosted collaboration, gains in creativity, critical thinking, and communication were limited. In other words, some soft skills stick, others don’t. What works in-game doesn’t always translate to the boardroom.

The Ethics of Simulation

There’s also a moral line worth minding. Advocacy groups and behavioral psychologists have expressed concern that bringing gambling-inspired systems into classrooms—even as simulations—might blur boundaries.

If not handled responsibly, these mechanics could normalize risky behavior or desensitize students to the real-world harms of gambling addiction. Most institutions, to their credit, insist their programs are entirely free of monetary stakes—but the optics matter, and so does intent.

The Bigger Picture: Tech Talent Crunch

This shift toward gamers and unconventional candidates isn’t happening in a vacuum; it’s unfolding against the backdrop of a tightening tech labor market. According to SignalFire’s State of Talent report, entry-level hiring in Big Tech is down 25% year-over-year, and startups have pulled back by 11%. The pipeline from computer science degrees to junior developer roles is no longer as reliable or wide as it once was. As a result, companies are rethinking who counts as “hireable,” and where new talent might be hiding.

What’s emerging is a growing openness to nontraditional paths. Adult learners, bootcamp graduates, and even part-time tinkerers are being taken more seriously, especially if they come armed with problem-solving skills, adaptive thinking, or data fluency. Gamers, in this context, aren’t just niche enthusiasts. They’re potential hires with real-time systems thinking and decision-making under pressure, two assets tech companies can’t get enough of. And when the alternative is an empty seat or a burned-out hire, companies are more willing to take a second look.

It’s also worth noting where this change is taking root. While Silicon Valley still dominates the headlines, tech job growth is booming in places like Austin, Raleigh, and Newark, where startup scenes are less rigid and more open to talent with unorthodox résumés.

A recent report from Fullstack Academy found that employers are now prioritizing practical skills over pedigree, and in some regions, portfolio-based hiring is becoming the norm. In that environment, your strategic poker habit or time spent mastering simulation games might not be a liability; it might be your way in.

What It Means for Students

The idea that gaming — or even gambling — could count as career prep may still feel a little far-fetched to some students. But as the tech industry broadens its definition of valuable skills, it’s worth asking: how do you turn that experience into something employers can actually see? The answer isn’t just about what you’ve done, it’s about how you frame it and how you build on it.

Connect the Dots

If you’ve led teams in e-sports, competed in strategy games, or developed a deep understanding of odds and risk from online poker, don’t downplay it. Instead of listing “gamer” vaguely, translate your experience into language that tech recruiters understand: risk analysis, decision-making under pressure, data-driven strategy. These aren’t filler lines; they’re relevant skills when properly framed.

Build on the Foundation

Game sense helps, but credentials still matter. Pair your gameplay experience with tangible coursework or certifications: think analytics workshops, UX design courses, coding bootcamps. These programs are often more accessible than traditional degrees and give employers something concrete to work with. The goal isn’t to replace formal training, it’s to enhance it with real-world instinct and adaptability.

Simulate, Don’t Gamble

Finally, skill development doesn’t have to come with financial risk. There are plenty of gamified or simulated environments where you can practice strategic thinking, from mock trading platforms to open-source betting simulations. These safe spaces offer the same learning curve without the dangers of real-money gambling. If you’re serious about turning gaming into a stepping stone, start there. Treat it like training, because done right, it is.

Final Bet: Worth a Shot?

Online gambling won’t get you hired, but it can highlight instincts that matter: risk analysis, pattern recognition, and quick decision-making. In a shifting tech landscape, those traits are getting harder to ignore.

Colleges and startups are starting to catch on, blending gaming logic into hiring and learning. It’s not about glamorizing gambling, it’s about recognizing useful mental frameworks in unexpected places.

If strategy is your thing, don’t hide it. Pair it with real skills, put it in context, and treat it like what it is: a starting point, not a shortcut.

15 Mets Highlights That Made Fans Suffer, Cheer, and Never Forget

Paulius Kundzelevicius

August 13, 2025

Being a Mets fan isn’t always easy. The franchise has had its share of heartbreak, bad trades, and seasons that ended long before they should have. But when the Mets do deliver, they deliver in a way that burns the moment into baseball history. Over the past 50-plus years, they’ve given us miracle runs, clutch heroics, and plays so wild they’re still replayed decades later.

These highlights are baseball legends, known to fans everywhere, and are the kind of gems only longtime Mets diehards still talk about. But every single one helped shape the identity of this unpredictable, never-boring team.

Here are the 15 most incredible Mets highlights of all time, and exactly how they happened.

Key Takeaways

Robin Ventura’s 1999 NLCS “Grand Slam Single” ended a 5-hour-46-minute Game 5 at Shea Stadium when he cleared the fence in the 15th inning but was mobbed before rounding the bases, officially scoring only one run in a 4–3 win over the Braves.
Mike Piazza’s September 21, 2001 two-run homer in the bottom of the 8th at Shea Stadium gave the Mets a 3–2 win over the Braves in New York’s first pro sporting event after 9/11, honoring 41,000 fans and first responders.
In the 1986 World Series, Mookie Wilson’s Game 6 grounder through Bill Buckner’s legs forced Game 7, where Ray Knight’s home run and Jesse Orosco’s final strikeout clinched an 8–5 championship win before 55,032 fans at Shea Stadium.

15. Robin Ventura’s “Grand Slam Single” – Game 5 of the 1999 NLCS

On October 17, 1999, during Game Five of the NLCS at Shea Stadium against the Braves, the Mets were tied 3–3 in the bottom of the 15th inning. A walk to Todd Pratt forced in the tying run, and then Robin Ventura stepped up to face Kevin McGlinchy. He launched a 2–1 fastball over the right-center field wall, a shot worthy of a grand slam, but he never made it past first base. Pratt, not realizing the ball was out, tackled Ventura in celebration, and a team-wide stampede ensued. The hit was ruled an RBI single, famously dubbed the “Grand Slam Single,” even though it cleared the fence. The game clocked in at 5 hours and 46 minutes, then a postseason record. NBC’s Bob Costas had dubbed it, “A drive to right… back to Georgia! Gone, a grand slam! The Mets win… 4–3!” before chaos took over.

14. Endy Chávez’s Game-Saving Catch – Game 7 of the 2006 NLCS

On October 19, 2006, in Game Seven of the NLCS with the Mets and Cardinals tied at 1–1, Endy Chávez produced one of postseason baseball’s most breathtaking moments. Scott Rolen hit a deep fly toward the left-field wall—what looked like a go-ahead home run. Chávez leaped, bringing it back in for the out, then quickly doubled off Jim Edmonds to end the inning. Despite this electric play, the Mets ultimately lost the game and series to the Cardinals.

13. Al Leiter’s Playoff Clincher – 1999 NL Wild Card Tiebreaker

On October 4, 1999, in a one-game playoff (Game 163) at Cinergy Field in Cincinnati, the Mets and Reds, both finishing 96–66, battled for the National League Wild Card. Al Leiter, who struggled early in the season (2–5 with a 6.39 ERA) but turned it around to go 10–7 with a 3.55 ERA in the second half, took the mound. Leiter delivered a complete-game, two-hit shutout, blanking the Reds 5–0 in front of 54,621 fans, with the game lasting 3 hours and 3 minutes. In the scoring, Rickey Henderson homered in the first, Edgardo Alfonzo added RBIs in the first and third, and Henderson again homered in the fifth. Leiter later quipped, “I think I’m deaf in my left ear from where John Franco screamed” after the win. This masterpiece advanced the Mets to the postseason for the first time in 11 years.

12. Gary Carter’s Debut Walk-Off – Opening Day, 1985

On April 9, 1985, Gary Carter made his Mets debut at Shea Stadium in a much-anticipated Opening Day clash. The Mets were trailing when the game reached the 10th inning. Carter faced Neil Allen and crushed a hanging curveball into left field—it snuck over the glove of Lonnie Smith and cleared the fence in front of the visiting bullpen for a walk-off home run, sealing a 6–5 win. Aside from the dramatic finish, Carter had one miscue earlier, a passed ball in the third inning that allowed a run. He ended the season with 32 home runs and 100 RBIs, anchoring the lineup in his first year.

11. Todd Hundley’s Catcher Home Run Record – 1996

On September 14, 1996, at Shea Stadium, catcher Todd Hundley hit his 41st home run of the season against Greg McMichael of the Braves, breaking the MLB single-season record for home runs by a catcher, which had stood since Roy Campanella. It also surpassed Darryl Strawberry’s Mets single-season mark of 39. The Mets won that game 6–5 in 12 innings. That year, Hundley batted .259 with career highs not only in home runs but also in doubles, hits (140), and RBIs (112).

10. Dave Mlicki’s First Subway Series Shutout – June 16, 1997

On June 16, 1997, in the very first regular-season Subway Series game, pitcher Dave Mlicki took the mound at Yankee Stadium against Andy Pettitte. In front of 56,188 fans, he threw a masterful complete-game shutout, striking out eight batters and leading the Mets to a 6–0 win. It remains the only complete-game shutout by a Mets pitcher against the Yankees. The performance earned Mlicki National League Player of the Week honors. To this day, he remembers the game as “without a doubt the best game of my life.”

9. Mike Piazza’s Post-9/11 Home Run – September 21, 2001

On September 21, 2001, Shea Stadium hosted New York’s first professional sporting event since the September 11 attacks. The Mets played the Braves before 41,000 fans. FDNY, NYPD, and EMTs were honored before the game; Diana Ross sang “God Bless America,” and Liza Minnelli performed “New York, New York” during the seventh-inning stretch. In the bottom of the eighth inning, with the Mets trailing 2–1, Mike Piazza hit a two-run home run to left-center, giving the Mets a 3–2 lead and the win. Piazza’s jersey from that game is displayed at the Hall of Fame, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, and Citi Field.

8. Tommie Agee’s Game Three Heroics – October 14, 1969

On October 14, 1969, in Game Three of the World Series at Shea Stadium, Tommie Agee led off with a home run off Jim Palmer. He made two defensive plays that saved five runs: a backhanded catch near the warning track in left-center on Elrod Hendricks’ drive with runners on first and third in the fourth inning, and a diving catch of Paul Blair’s line drive with the bases loaded and two outs in the seventh inning. The Mets won 5–0.

7. Todd Pratt’s NLDS Walk-Off – October 9, 1999

On October 9, 1999, in Game Four of the NLDS against the Diamondbacks at Shea Stadium, backup catcher Todd Pratt, starting for injured Mike Piazza, won the game in the 10th inning. With one out and the score tied 3–3, Pratt hit a fly ball to straightaway center field that cleared Steve Finley’s glove for a 4–3 walk-off win and a series clincher.

6. Bobby Jones’ One-Hit Shutout – October 8, 2000

On October 8, 2000, at Shea Stadium, Bobby Jones pitched a complete-game one-hit shutout to clinch Game 4 of the NLDS, sending the Mets to the NLCS. The lone hit was Jeff Kent’s fifth-inning double. Jones retired the side in order in eight of nine innings. Robin Ventura added a critical two-run homer in the first inning, while Edgardo Alfonzo delivered a two-run double in the fifth for insurance. This was just the sixth complete-game one-hitter in postseason history and the fewest hits allowed in a postseason complete game for the Mets at that point. The Mets won 4–0 before 52,888 fans in a 2-hour, 48-minute game.

5. Mike Hampton’s NLCS MVP Shutout – October 16, 2000

In Game 5 of the 2000 NLCS at Shea Stadium, Mike Hampton delivered a masterful complete-game shutout, allowing just three hits, one walk, and striking out eight, as the Mets defeated the Cardinals 7–0 to win the pennant and advance to the World Series. Hampton had also dominated in Game 1 at Busch Stadium. His Game 5 performance earned him the NLCS Most Valuable Player award.

4. Game Six of the 1986 NLCS – October 15, 1986

On October 15, 1986, at the Astrodome before 45,718 fans, the Mets and Astros battled through 16 innings, the longest in LCS history, in a 7–6 Mets victory. Trailing 3–0 going into the ninth, Lenny Dykstra tripled to spark the rally. Mookie Wilson and Keith Hernandez followed with hits to tie the game. Jesse Orosco came in and struck out Kevin Bass on a slider with runners at the corners to end the marathon and clinch the pennant, sending the Mets to the World Series.

3. The 1969 Miracle Mets World Series Win

The Mets ended seven losing seasons with a 100–62 record in 1969, finishing eight games ahead of the Cubs to win the NL East. Starting September 3, the Mets surged while the Cubs collapsed, clinching the division on September 24. Managed by Gil Hodges, they swept the Braves in the first NLCS and defeated the heavily favored Orioles 4–1 in the World Series.

Tom Seaver went 25–7 with a 2.21 ERA to win the Cy Young Award. Jerry Koosman posted 17–9 with a 2.28 ERA. Tommie Agee hit 26 home runs and 76 RBIs, and Cleon Jones batted .340, third in the league. Donn Clendenon, World Series MVP, hit .357 with three home runs and four RBIs. Ron Swoboda made a diving catch in Game 4, and Al Weis contributed timely hits.

2. Game Seven of the 1986 World Series – October 27, 1986

At Shea Stadium, in front of 55,032 fans, the Mets trailed the Red Sox 3–0 before scoring three runs in the 6th off Bruce Hurst. In the 7th, Ray Knight hit a go-ahead home run as part of a three-run inning. Two more runs in the 8th secured an 8–5 win and the franchise’s second championship. Knight, batting .391 with one double, one home run, and five RBIs, earned World Series MVP honors. Reliever Jesse Orosco struck out the final batter, dropped to his knees, and threw his glove into the air.

1. Game Six of the 1986 World Series – October 25, 1986

On October 25, 1986, the Mets trailed the Red Sox 5–3 in the 10th inning with two outs. Gary Carter singled, Kevin Mitchell singled, and Ray Knight singled to score Carter and cut the deficit to one. Bob Stanley replaced Calvin Schiraldi and threw a wild pitch, allowing Mitchell to score the tying run. On the 10th pitch of Mookie Wilson’s at-bat, his grounder rolled through Bill Buckner’s legs, scoring Knight and forcing Game Seven. The Mets won the next game and the championship.

We Tried Everything at Raising Cane’s NJ — Here’s What’s Worth Your Money

Moses Lookman

August 12, 2025

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers is one of those places people either love or don’t get the hype about, and honestly, both sides have a point. It’s a fast-food chain that’s all about one thing: chicken fingers. No burgers, no nuggets, no salads pretending to be healthy. Just hot, crispy chicken, fries, and a couple of sides. Todd Graves started it in 1996 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, named it after his dog “Cane,” and stuck to the “One Love” motto — focus on one thing and do it well.

They’ve definitely nailed the “focus” part. The chicken is fresh, juicy, and served piping hot. But the sides, well, not everyone’s lining up for coleslaw and crinkle-cut fries. Still, Cane’s has blown up across the South and Midwest, with over 800 locations and a fan base that treats Cane’s Sauce like it’s magic.

In 2024, New Jersey finally got its first Cane’s. Since then, more have opened across South Jersey, and every grand opening still draws a crowd. In this guide, I’ll show you the full New Jersey menu, rank every item from worst to best, share some insider tips, list all NJ locations with hours, and tell the story of how Cane’s went from a small Louisiana shop to a national favorite.

Raising Cane’s New Jersey Full Menu

If you’ve been to Raising Cane’s anywhere else, you already know the New Jersey menu — because it’s exactly the same. Cane’s doesn’t bother with seasonal specials or random experiments. They stick to chicken fingers, fries, Texas toast, coleslaw, drinks, and that famous Cane’s Sauce. Simple is their thing, for better or worse.

Here’s the full menu you’ll find at NJ locations:

Combo Meals

Every combo is basically the same core items, just in different amounts or on bread:

The Box Combo® – 4 chicken fingers, fries, 1 Cane’s Sauce, Texas toast, coleslaw, and a 22 oz. drink (fountain drink or tea).
The Caniac Combo® – 6 chicken fingers, fries, 2 Cane’s Sauces, Texas toast, coleslaw, and a large 32 oz. drink.
The 3-Finger Combo® – 3 chicken fingers, fries, 1 Cane’s Sauce, Texas toast, and a 22 oz. drink.
The Sandwich Combo – 3 chicken fingers on a toasted bun with lettuce and Cane’s Sauce, plus fries and a 22 oz. drink.
The Kids Combo – 2 chicken fingers, fries, 1 Cane’s Sauce, and a small 12 oz. kids’ drink (no toast, smaller portion).

Tailgate Packs (Party Trays)

If you’re feeding a crew or just yourself over a weekend, here’s what they’ve got:

25 Fingers – serves about 6–8 people, includes 8 Cane’s Sauce cups.
50 Fingers – serves about 13–15, includes 16 Cane’s Sauce cups.
75 Fingers – serves about 20–22, includes 25 Cane’s Sauce cups.
100 Fingers – serves about 27–29, includes 33 Cane’s Sauce cups.
(Extra sauce can be bought separately.)

Extras (Sides & More)

You can add these to any order:

Chicken Finger – marinated and fried to order (about 130 calories each).
Crinkle-Cut Fries – golden, wavy fries (about 400 calories per order).
Texas Toast – thick bread grilled with garlic butter (about 150 calories a slice).
Coleslaw – creamy cabbage slaw (about 100 calories per serving).
Cane’s Sauce – tangy dipping sauce (about 190 calories per cup).
Chicken Sandwich – 3 chicken fingers on a bun with lettuce and Cane’s Sauce (about 780 calories), sold without sides.

Drinks

Simple but fresh options:

Freshly Squeezed Lemonade – made in-store every day; sweet and tart (extra charge in combos).
Freshly Brewed Iced Tea – sweetened or unsweetened, brewed all day.
Half & Half (Arnold Palmer) – half lemonade, half tea (extra charge in combos).
Fountain Drinks – Coca-Cola brand sodas (sizes vary, 0–430 calories).
Large Jugs – gallon jugs of lemonade or tea for groups (about 1,750 calories per gallon of lemonade).

Sauces

Cane’s Sauce – their signature creamy, tangy sauce (a mix of mayo, ketchup, and spices). Every combo includes it, and many fans get extra.
Honey Mustard – sometimes available if you ask, but Cane’s Sauce is the main one.
Ketchup and other basic condiments are available if requested.

Ranking Menu Items: Worst to Best

Look, Cane’s doesn’t have a big menu, so it’s not like we’re comparing lobster to pizza here. But some items are clearly better than others. I’ve eaten it all, more than once, and here’s the truth, from the stuff you could skip to the thing you absolutely need to order.

#5 – Crinkle-Cut Fries (Worst)

The fries are… okay. They’re crispy when hot and salty enough, but they taste like something you could make at home from a frozen bag. Once they cool down, they get soft fast. Good with Cane’s Sauce, but most fast-food places have better fries.

#4 – Coleslaw

Fresh, cold, creamy, but coleslaw is one of those foods you either love or push to the side. Even Todd Graves, the guy who started Cane’s, usually skips it for more toast, which tells you something. The dressing leans sweet and heavy on mayo, and a lot of people swap it out without a second thought. If you love coleslaw, it’s fine. If not, trade it for extra toast and don’t look back.

#3 – Texas Toast

This one surprised me when I first tried it. Cane’s doesn’t phone it in here — it’s thick pull-apart bread brushed with garlic butter and grilled until the edges are golden and crispy. The middle stays soft and fluffy. People even order it “BOB” (buttered on both sides) for extra flavor. Honestly, it’s so good it could be the main dish if Cane’s decided to go rogue.

#2 – Chicken Sandwich

While many fast-food chains compete with over-the-top “chicken sandwich” creations, Cane’s keeps it simple: three chicken fingers on a toasted bun with lettuce and Cane’s Sauce. The chicken is juicy, the bread is soft, and the sauce adds the right tangy flavor to every bite. It’s simple, but kind of brilliant.

#1 – Chicken Fingers (Best)

This is what Cane’s is famous for, and it’s obvious why. The chicken is fresh, never frozen, marinated for flavor, hand-battered, and fried until it’s golden and crispy on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside. They actually taste like chicken (which is more than I can say for certain fast food chains). And yes, they’re even better when you dunk them in Cane’s Sauce. If you go to Cane’s and don’t get these, you’re wasting your trip.

Raising Cane’s Locations in New Jersey

Right now (mid-2025), New Jersey has six Raising Cane’s, all bunched up in the southern half of the state. If you live in North Jersey, sorry, you’re still waiting, though Cane’s says Fairfield, Edison, and Watchung are coming soon. About time.

Here’s where you can actually get Cane’s in NJ right now:

Burlington (Burlington Twp) – 2329 Burlington Mount Holly Road, Burlington, NJ 08016. Open Sunday–Thursday 10 AM to midnight, Friday and Saturday until 1 AM. The first NJ location and still one of the busiest.
Cherry Hill – 2014 Route 70 West, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002. Same hours as Burlington. Close to the mall, so expect a line if you go on weekends.
Deptford – 1860 Deptford Center Road, Deptford, NJ 08096. Also 10 AM to midnight most days, 1 AM on weekends. Convenient spot if you’re shopping in the area.
Glassboro – 695 Delsea Drive, Glassboro, NJ 08028. Same hours. Packed with Rowan University students — don’t try to get in at midnight unless you like waiting.
Marlton – 800 Route 70 West, Marlton, NJ 08053. Same hours. Easy to get to, but the drive-thru can back up fast during dinner.
Turnersville (Washington Twp) – 5241 NJ-42, Turnersville, NJ 08012. Same hours. Good spot if you’re in Gloucester County and don’t feel like driving to Deptford.

All of these locations have dine-in seating, drive-thru, and takeout. Most of them stay open until midnight, and push it to 1:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays for the late-night chicken crowd. Hours can shift on holidays, and new spots can pop up fast, so it’s worth checking the official site or calling before you head out, especially if you’re driving far.

History and Expansion of Raising Cane’s

Raising Cane’s started as a college idea that almost didn’t happen. Back in 1994, founder Todd Graves pitched a chicken-fingers-only restaurant in a business class at LSU. His professor gave him the worst grade in the class, basically saying it would never work. Todd didn’t listen. He worked tough jobs as a boilermaker and a fisherman to save money, then opened the first Raising Cane’s on August 28, 1996, right by the LSU campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

The name came from his yellow Lab, “Raising Cane,” who used to hang around the construction site. The first location was small, had a retro vibe, and instantly became a hit with college students. It didn’t take long for people outside Louisiana to start hearing about the place.

Through the late ’90s and 2000s, Cane’s spread across Louisiana and the South, building a loyal fan base for its hot, fresh chicken fingers and friendly service. By the 2010s, the chain picked up speed, moving into Texas, the Midwest, and beyond. By 2020, Raising Cane’s was one of the fastest-growing fast-food chains in the country.

For years, people in New Jersey only heard about Cane’s from friends in other states. That changed in 2024 when the first NJ location opened on January 18 in Burlington Township. It drew huge lines on day one, with fans and curious first-timers waiting for hours to try the Box Combo and Cane’s Sauce.

The openings came quickly after that: Cherry Hill in March 2024, then Deptford, Marlton, Turnersville, and Glassboro (which opened in January 2025). By mid-2025, there were six Cane’s locations in New Jersey, all in the southern half of the state.

The growth isn’t stopping. A location in Edison will be the first in Central Jersey, and the first North Jersey Cane’s is set for Fairfield (Essex County) in late 2025. There’s also a planned spot in Watchung.

So far, every grand opening has been packed with “Caniacs”, that’s what the diehard fans call themselves, lining up for their chicken fix. In less than two years, Cane’s has gone from zero presence in New Jersey to being one of the most talked-about new chains in the state.

WWE Fans Wait Hours in Bayonne Hoping to See John Cena During Netflix Filming

Moses Lookman

August 12, 2025

On Tuesday, August 6, hundreds of people assembled outside Bayonne Medical Center in Bayonne, New Jersey — as reported by TAPinto Bayonne. They were there during the second consecutive day of filming for the Netflix comedy Little Brother, starring John Cena and Eric André.

Among those present was Jimi Charles, who arrived in a wheelchair while holding a replica wrestling championship belt. He attended on behalf of his son, who is a wrestling fan and was unable to be there due to illness.

Bayonne officials extended an invitation for Cena to appear at the city’s annual Night Out Against Crime event, which was held in another part of town that day. According to information provided to TAPinto Bayonne, his filming schedule may have prevented him from attending.

Despite more than six hours of waiting by fans, Cena did not make an appearance outside the medical center.

Key Takeaways

On August 6, hundreds of people waited outside Bayonne Medical Center for over six hours during John Cena’s second day filming Little Brother at the site, but the actor did not appear in public.
The Bayonne filming ran two consecutive days, starting at 7:30 a.m. and lasting more than 12 hours each day, with additional production across multiple northern New Jersey locations.
The film stars Cena as a straight-laced real estate agent and Eric André as his eccentric younger brother, with Netflix yet to announce a release date.

Two Days of Filming in Bayonne and Multiple Locations in New Jersey

The Bayonne Medical Center shoot lasted for two days, concluding on August 6. Hospital staff confirmed that filming began each day at 7:30 a.m. and continued for more than 12 hours.

According to members of the production crew, Little Brother has also been filmed in Jersey City, Hoboken, Cedar Grove, Montclair, and other locations in northern New Jersey.

In the film, Cena plays a straight-laced real estate agent whose routine is disrupted by the arrival of his eccentric younger brother, portrayed by Eric André.

On Monday, August 5, one day before the Bayonne shoot ended, Cena and André were seen filming in the Heights section of Jersey City. Scenes were shot at the basketball court in Riverview Park on Ogden Avenue.

Additional filming has also taken place in Montclair and other parts of northern New Jersey. Netflix has not announced a release date for the film.

Crowd Atmosphere Outside Bayonne Medical Center

Although Cena did not step outside to meet the assembled fans, the crowd remained active throughout the day. People brought wrestling memorabilia, including championship belts, and gathered on the hospital lawn.

John Cena joined WWE in 2001 and became the heavyweight champion 17 times during his wrestling career. He has also starred in films including The Marine, Trainwreck, Ferdinand, Bumblebee, and F9, as well as the HBO Max series Peacemaker.

Some in attendance described the gathering as a WWE-themed event, with children and families participating in activities on the lawn while waiting for any sight of the actor.

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