Catcher Francisco Alvarez rejoined the New York Mets on Monday night, July 21, at Citi Field, just one month after being optioned to Triple-A Syracuse. The 23-year-old was recalled ahead of the team’s series opener against the Los Angeles Angels and was inserted into the starting lineup, batting eighth and catching.

In his first Major League game since June 21, Alvarez reached base three times, going 1-for-2 with two walks and two runs scored. His biggest contribution came in the bottom of the eighth inning, when he hit a deep fly ball to right field that resulted in a double. The Mets, who were trailing earlier in the game, used that momentum to complete a 7-5 comeback win.

Alvarez received a standing ovation from the Citi Field crowd during his first plate appearance. Though he grounded out in that at-bat, he did not record another out for the rest of the night.

Alvarez Was Optioned After a Decline in Performance

Alvarez was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse after struggling both offensively and defensively over his first 35 games of the 2025 season. At the time of his demotion, he was batting .236 with a .319 on-base percentage and a .333 slugging percentage, totaling a .652 OPS. He had hit only three home runs and driven in eleven runs.

Team officials mentioned a drop in his pitch framing and overall receiving behind the plate, with Baseball Savant ranking his framing in the bottom nine percent of the league. A swing adjustment introduced in the offseason to help Alvarez hit to all fields appeared to diminish the power that had defined his early success.

After being sent down, Alvarez did not delay in reporting. He joined Syracuse without using the full 72-hour window typically granted to demoted players. In 19 games with the Triple-A club, he posted a .299 average, an on-base percentage of .397, and a slugging percentage of .836. He hit 11 home runs, drove in 24 runs, and scored 17 times.

From July 11 to July 20 alone, Alvarez hit seven home runs across six games. Team officials closely monitored this stretch, and after he homered four times over the final weekend of that run, they made the decision to bring him back to the Major League roster.

Working with Syracuse bench coach and former MLB catcher J.P. Arencibia, Alvarez made a key adjustment to his catching stance. By digging his back toe into the dirt while squatting from a one-knee position, Alvarez improved his balance and pitch framing. Team officials took note of the mechanical improvement behind the plate in addition to the resurgence in power.

Alvarez described his mindset during the assignment through an interpreter, saying, “I learned how to be patient. I just continued to work hard, continued to do what I needed to do, and just put in the time to eventually get back to the big leagues.”

Eighth-Inning Double Helps Mets Complete Comeback Win

In the eighth inning on Monday night, with the game tied and one out, Brett Baty drew a walk. Alvarez followed with a deep fly ball to right field. Chris Taylor tracked the ball but could not complete the catch near the wall, resulting in a double.

Ronny Mauricio then grounded to third base, where Yoán Moncada fielded the ball cleanly with the infield drawn in. However, Moncada’s throw home was wide, and Baty crossed the plate with the go-ahead run.

Earlier in the game, Baty had also hit a two-run homer in the fourth inning. Juan Soto contributed with a game-tying two-run single in the seventh. Brandon Nimmo added a sacrifice fly in the eighth inning to extend the Mets’ lead.

Alvarez reflected on the reception he received from the fans, stating, “It felt really good just because of all the struggles that I had earlier in the season. The way that they’ve kept supporting me and the way they received me today—it felt really special.”

Manager Carlos Mendoza mentioned the emotional effect of Alvarez’s return, “It meant something to him. It meant something for all of us.”

Baty echoed that sentiment, saying, “We all wanted him here. For him to come back and have an impact like that in the game was huge for us.”

Sportsbooks Adjust Betting Lines Following Alvarez’s Return

Francisco Alvarez’s performance and offensive resurgence prompted several sportsbooks to adjust his player prop lines. After he came back, his odds shifted noticeably on multiple betting sites.

His over 0.5 home run prop shortened from +560 to +475. The total bases over 0.5 line settled between -167 and -175, while the hits + runs + RBIs over 1.5 were listed at approximately +105. The corresponding under was offered between -138 and -140. His singles over 0.5 prop was also adjusted to around -165 across sportsbooks.

Alvarez had appeared in 37 Major League games in 2025, posting a .240 batting average, a .329 on-base percentage, and a .364 slugging percentage, with four home runs, 31 hits, and 13 RBIs. His double on Monday came off a 97 mph pitch.

Betting and fantasy coverage from sites like RotoWire and FanDuel pointed out that Alvarez had a big power surge in Triple-A and that he had gotten his power back. During a 19-game stretch in Syracuse, his OPS was 1.129.

Mets Adjust Catcher Rotation, Hope for Continued Progress

To activate Alvarez, the Mets optioned catcher Hayden Senger to Triple-A. During Alvarez’s time in Syracuse, Luis Torrens handled the majority of catching duties. Torrens has thrown out 14 of 34 attempted base stealers this season and combined with Francisco Lindor to cut down Noelvi Marte at second base in Sunday’s game against the Reds.

Offensively, Torrens holds a .606 OPS this season. He contributed an eight-pitch at-bat on Sunday that resulted in an RBI groundout, driving in Juan Soto for the go-ahead run in a 3-2 win over Cincinnati.

Speaking through interpreter Alan Suriel, Torrens said, “I’ve been feeling a lot more comfortable at the plate. I’m putting in a lot of good work. When you put in that work, the results start to eventually come around.”

Alvarez Looks to Maintain Momentum After Fast Return

In 2023, Alvarez hit 25 home runs across 123 games as a 21-year-old rookie, despite finishing with a .209 average. Injuries, including wrist and hand issues as well as spring hamate surgery, contributed to a slow start in 2025.

Earlier this month, Alvarez described his focus on his previous power swing with adjustments made during the offseason. “I’ve been working on putting both together,” he said. “I feel more powerful.”

His eighth-inning double in Monday’s win was his first extra-base hit since returning and came against high velocity.

Alvarez explained his renewed mindset, stating, “It’s like when you stumble on a rock. You don’t want to stumble there again.”

David Stearns, the team’s President of Baseball Operations, commented, “This happened faster than I would have envisioned when we optioned him.”

The Mets entered Monday having lost two straight after the All-Star break but avoided a sweep with a win over the Reds on Sunday. With Alvarez back in the lineup and delivering results, the Mets are watching closely to see if he can provide consistent contributions in the second half of the season.

Aaron Judge’s first-inning home run on Sunday afternoon at Truist Park in Atlanta was the 351st of his Major League career, tying him with Alex Rodriguez for sixth on the New York Yankees’ all-time home run list.

The solo shot came off Atlanta Braves right-hander Grant Holmes and traveled 409 feet to right field. It was Judge’s 36th home run of the 2025 season and his first ever at Truist Park – the 32nd different Major League stadium in which he has homered.

Following the blast, Judge said, “It’s just an incredible honor, especially growing up and watching A-Rod for so many years, watching what he did in the pinstripes. He’s a legend, one of the best to ever play. So getting to tie him with the Yankees, that’s pretty cool – but there’s more to come.”

Judge now trails only five players in Yankees history: Babe Ruth (659), Mickey Mantle (536), Lou Gehrig (493), Joe DiMaggio (361), and Yogi Berra (358).

This home run is also Judge’s eighth in his last 17 games. He now shares third place among active players for most stadiums homered in, tied with Willy Adames, Randal Grichuk, and Carlos Santana. Only Giancarlo Stanton (36) and Manny Machado (34) have homered in more Major League parks.

Aaron Judge Remains MVP Favorite as Betting Odds Adjust

Aaron Judge is second in the league in home runs behind Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who leads with 38. Raleigh also won the Home Run Derby held in Atlanta on Monday. Judge’s recent performance has influenced betting markets.

Judge remains a leading candidate for the 2025 AL MVP. According to sportsbooks, his MVP odds have ranged between –575 and –800 in recent days. Earlier in the season, FanDuel listed Judge at –8000. The odds movement shows increased competition from players like Raleigh, but still places Judge as the favorite.

In futures markets, BetMGM lists the Yankees at +800 to win the World Series, +340 to win the American League pennant, and +100 to win the AL East. These figures reflect current standings and betting volume ahead of their upcoming series in Toronto.

For their July 22 matchup against the Blue Jays, sportsbooks set the Yankees’ moneyline around –120, with the game total ranging from 8.5 to 9 runs. New York’s Carlos Rodón is scheduled to pitch against Toronto’s Kevin Gausman.

Stroman Delivers Six Strong Innings as Bullpen Rests

The Yankees’ 4-2 victory over the Braves was backed by a steady performance from Marcus Stroman, who pitched six innings and allowed just one run — a solo home run by Matt Olson in the sixth. Stroman scattered five hits, struck out four, and did not issue a walk.

With the Yankees’ bullpen running thin, the game plan was to limit relief usage. Manager Aaron Boone avoided using Jonathan Loáisiga, Luke Weaver, JT Brubaker, and Scott Effross. The pitching duties moved efficiently from Stroman to Ian Hamilton, followed by Tim Hill, and finally to Devin Williams. Williams secured his 14th save despite surrendering a solo homer to Ronald Acuña Jr. in the ninth.

Stroman effectively mixed his pitches and worked both sides of the plate, in sync with catcher Ben Rice throughout his outing. The solid start gave the Yankees exactly what they needed to secure the series win while keeping key relievers rested for the road ahead.

Vivas, Goldschmidt, and Chisholm Contribute Offensively

In the third inning, Jorbit Vivas made a diving catch in foul ground to grab Jurickson Profar’s popped-up bunt, helping Stroman escape a jam, followed by a double play from Matt Olson.

Vivas later contributed to the offense when he was hit in the left knee by a pitch from Holmes in the sixth inning, forcing in the Yankees’ third run with the bases loaded.

In the seventh inning, Jazz Chisholm Jr. hit a run-scoring double off Dane Dunning, increasing New York’s lead to 4-1.

In the ninth, Devin Williams allowed a home run to Ronald Acuña Jr. but secured his 14th save of the season. The Yankees’ win clinched the rubber match of the three-game series against the Braves.

Yankees Secure Series Victory Ahead of AL East Showdown

With the win, the Yankees improved to 55-44. The Braves dropped the rubber match of the series at Truist Park, while the Toronto Blue Jays (58-41) also won Sunday, maintaining a three-game lead over the Yankees in the American League East.

The Yankees will now travel to Toronto for a three-game series.

“This was a big series win, especially going into Toronto. It’s a good time to start getting hot. There’s more to come,” Judge said.

Rivalries are what make sports exciting; there’s no question, really. They turn regular games into must-watch events and bring out the best, and sometimes the worst, in teams and players. When two opponents meet again and again with something to prove, it creates history.

This list looks at ten of the biggest rivalries in sports – the matchups that fans never forget, where every game feels personal, and every point or goal carries extra significance.

1. Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears

The first meeting in the storied rivalry between the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears took place on November 27, 1921, when the Chicago Staleys, the franchise that would become the Bears, defeated the Packers 20–0.

As of January 5, 2025, the two teams have played 210 times, the most games between two franchises in NFL history. The overall series record stands at 108 wins for the Packers, 96 for the Bears, and 6 ties. In the regular season, the Packers lead 107–95–6, and the postseason record is split 1–1.

Two of the largest margins of victory in the series came in 1980, when the Bears won 61–7, and in 1962, when the Packers prevailed 49–0.

The Packers overtook the Bears in the all-time series standings in 2017 and have maintained the lead since then. From 2019 to 2024, Green Bay went on an 11-game winning streak against Chicago, though it ended on January 5, 2025, when the Bears won 24–22 in their most recent matchup.

Collectively, the two franchises have won 22 NFL championships—13 for Green Bay and 9 for Chicago. They also account for 77 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees, with 41 from the Bears and 36 from the Packers.

The rivalry’s regional tension stems from Chicago, one of the country’s largest cities, and Green Bay, the smallest NFL market. The term “cheeseheads,” originally a slur used by Chicagoans, was embraced by Packers fans, who now famously wear cheese-shaped foam hats at Lambeau Field.

2. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Boston Celtics

The Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics have met in the NBA Finals 12 times, the most frequent matchup in Finals history. The Celtics have won 9 of those series; the Lakers have won 3.

Their first Finals matchup occurred in 1959, when the Boston Celtics swept the Minneapolis Lakers 4–0. Boston continued to dominate the rivalry in the 1960s, winning six Finals matchups against the Lakers during that decade.

In the 1980s, the teams met in the Finals three times—in 1984, 1985, and 1987. Boston won in 1984, while Los Angeles secured victories in 1985 and 1987.

Since the Lakers relocated to Los Angeles in 1960, the teams have met 207 times in the regular season. As of the end of the 2023–24 season, the Celtics lead the regular-season series 111–96.

Including titles won during the Minneapolis Lakers era, the Lakers have 17 NBA championships, while the Celtics hold 18, making them the two winningest franchises in NBA history.

As of the conclusion of the 2023–24 season, both franchises have an all-time winning percentage of .592, but Boston is the only NBA team with a winning record against the Lakers.

This rivalry features iconic individual matchups like Magic Johnson vs. Larry Bird and Bill Russell vs. Wilt Chamberlain, and defining moments such as Red Auerbach lighting victory cigars on the Boston Garden floor and Pat Riley orchestrating “Showtime” in Los Angeles while dressed in Armani suits.

In the 1980s, the rivalry took on deeper complexity when the Celtics fielded a predominantly white starting lineup during a time when the NBA was largely dominated by Black athletes. Although not publicly dissected as part of a national conversation, it was noticeable to fans. In earlier decades, the Celtics had fielded a lineup featuring at least four Black starters—a rarity at the time.

3. Joe Frazier vs. Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier fought three times between 1971 and 1975, creating one of boxing’s most iconic rivalries.

Their first bout, widely billed as “The Fight of the Century,” took place on March 8, 1971, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Both fighters entered the ring undefeated: Ali was 31–0, and Frazier was 26–0. At the time, both were considered world heavyweight champions—Ali held the lineal title, while Frazier was recognized by the WBA, WBC, and The Ring as the undisputed champion. After 15 rounds, Frazier won by unanimous decision, successfully retaining the undisputed heavyweight title.

The rematch, dubbed “Super Fight II,” occurred on January 28, 1974, also at Madison Square Garden. This time, the fight was not for the championship, as George Foreman had since claimed the heavyweight titles. However, the stakes remained high. Ali won by unanimous decision, leveling their rivalry at 1–1.

Their final encounter, the legendary “Thrilla in Manila,” took place on October 1, 1975, at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines. The bout was for the undisputed heavyweight championship, which Ali had regained after defeating Foreman in 1974. The fight was brutal, lasting 14 rounds. At the end of the 14th round, Frazier’s trainer, Eddie Futch, stopped the fight, resulting in a technical knockout victory for Ali. Ali retained his championship and later described the fight by saying it was “the closest thing to dying I know of.”

Throughout their trilogy, Ali was known for his graceful, tactical boxing style, whereas Frazier was relentless, using a signature bobbing-and-weaving approach to apply constant pressure.

4. Boston Red Sox vs. New York Yankees 

The rivalry between the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees began on May 7, 1903, at Huntington Avenue Grounds in Boston, where the Boston Americans defeated the New York Highlanders 6–2. The game lasted 1 hour and 38 minutes and was attended by 5,462 spectators.

As of June 15, 2025, the two teams have played 2,317 games, with the Yankees leading the all-time series. In the postseason, they are evenly matched, with both teams securing 12 wins each across 24 playoff meetings.

The Yankees’ largest margin of victory in the rivalry was a 22–1 win on June 19, 2000, scoring 16 runs in the final two innings. The Red Sox delivered dominant wins of 17–1 on May 28 and July 15, 2005, and a 19–3 victory on July 25, 2019.

The Yankees have posted three separate 12-game winning streaks in the rivalry. The Red Sox hold the record for the longest single streak, with 17 consecutive wins from October 3, 1911, to July 1, 1912.

The Red Sox are on a five-game winning streak, capped by a 2–0 shutout win in which Brayan Bello struck out eight batters, Rafael Devers hit a home run, and Trevor Story added an RBI single.

This rivalry has now lasted more than 120 seasons and remains one of the most storied and competitive rivalries in all of American professional sports.

5. Ohio State vs. Michigan (College Football)

The football rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State began on October 16, 1897, in Ann Arbor, where Michigan won 34–0 at Regents Field. Since 1918, the two programs have played annually, with only one exception in modern history.

As of November 30, 2024, Michigan leads the series 62–51–6.

The largest margin of victory belongs to Michigan, which won 86–0 in 1902. Michigan also holds the longest winning streak in the rivalry: nine consecutive wins from 1901 through 1909.

The rivalry’s deeper context includes the Toledo War of 1835–1836, a boundary dispute between the states of Michigan and Ohio, which provides a historical backdrop to the animosity.

Known simply as “The Game,” this annual matchup frequently decides the Big Ten Conference championship and often determines which team will represent the conference in the Rose Bowl.

6. Duke vs. North Carolina (College Basketball)

Duke University and the University of North Carolina first played on January 24, 1920, when North Carolina defeated Trinity College (later renamed Duke) by a score of 36–25.

As of March 14, 2025, the teams have played 265 games, with North Carolina leading the all-time series 145–120.

Their most recent meeting occurred during the ACC Tournament semifinal on March 14, 2025, in Charlotte, where Duke won 74–71, its third win over North Carolina in the same season—a feat last accomplished in 2001–2002.

In that game, Duke led 45–24 at halftime, and although North Carolina mounted a comeback, Kon Knueppel sealed the win with two free throws in the final seconds. Other key performances included Khaman Maluach’s 13 points and nine rebounds, and Sion James’ 12 points. A pivotal moment occurred with 4.1 seconds remaining, when a lane violation by a North Carolina player on a missed free throw gave Duke an extra opportunity to secure the victory.

The two schools are located just eight to ten miles apart on Tobacco Road in North Carolina. A 2000 national poll ranked the rivalry as the third-greatest in North American sports, and in 2003, it was named the #1 college basketball rivalry and #2 overall rivalry across all sports.

Duke and North Carolina have met once in the NCAA Tournament, in the 2022 Final Four, where North Carolina won 81–77.

Combined, the two programs have made 38 Final Four appearances, 21 by North Carolina, 17 by Duke, and have won nine national championships, with North Carolina claiming five and Duke four.

7. Chris Evert vs. Martina Navratilova

Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova faced each other 80 times between 1973 and 1988, including 60 finals, forming the most frequent rivalry in women’s tennis history. Navratilova led the overall head-to-head with 43 wins to Evert’s 37.

In Grand Slam tournaments, Navratilova held a 14–8 advantage, and in Grand Slam finals, she won 10 matches, while Evert won 4.

Their first match was in January 1973 in Akron, Ohio; their last final encounter took place in 1988 in Chicago, with Navratilova winning in straight sets.

By playing on different surfaces over 15 years, their rivalry has strategic differences. On clay courts, Evert led 11–3. Navratilova dominated grass courts 10–5, indoor surfaces 22–13, and had the edge on hard courts 21–14. Evert led in three-set matches 15–14, while Navratilova won 29 matches in straight sets to Evert’s 22.

Between 1975 and 1987, the two women combined to hold the world No. 1 ranking for 592 of 615 weeks—Evert for 260 weeks and Navratilova for 332. From 1981 to 1985, they won 15 consecutive Grand Slam singles titles between them.

Each player retired with 18 Grand Slam singles titles, placing them among the all-time greats. Though their rivalry was fierce and highly competitive, it evolved into a close friendship after retirement. They have since shared the broadcast booth during major tournaments and publicly supported each other during personal health challenges.

8. Arnold Palmer vs. Jack Nicklaus

The rivalry between Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus began in earnest at the 1962 U.S. Open, held at Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania. After both players tied at 283 (−1) over 72 holes, a playoff was held. In that 18-hole playoff, 22-year-old Nicklaus defeated 32-year-old Palmer by three strokes, shooting 71 to Palmer’s 74.

Palmer had ten three-putts during the 90 holes of the tournament, compared to just one by Nicklaus. The victory is Nicklaus’s first professional win, earning $17,500, including a $2,500 playoff bonus, while Palmer received $10,500.

Nicklaus finished his career with 73 PGA Tour wins and 18 major titles. Palmer won 62 PGA Tour events and 7 majors. Their rivalry featured contrasting styles, Nicklaus’s control versus Palmer’s flair, and helped grow golf’s popularity during the 1960s and beyond.

9. Canada vs. Russia (Ice Hockey) 

In September 1972, Canada’s national team, made up of professional NHL players, played an eight-game series against the Soviet Union’s national team. The series was called the Summit Series and was the first time Canada participated in international hockey since withdrawing from IIHF tournaments. Canada had left because NHL players were not allowed to compete in those events.

The Summit Series included four games in Canada and four in Moscow. Canada and the Soviet Union each won three games, and one game ended in a tie. The series was decided in the final game when Canada won 6–5. Paul Henderson scored the winning goal with only 34 seconds left in the third period.

In the first game of the series, the Soviet Union surprised Canada by winning 7–3 in Montreal. The series introduced several Soviet players to North American fans, including Valeri Kharlamov, Vladislav Tretiak, and Alexander Yakushev. It was the first true best-on-best international hockey competition and became a defining moment in Cold War sports history.

10. New Zealand All Blacks vs. South Africa Springboks (Rugby Union) 

The first test match between New Zealand and South Africa took place in 1921, when New Zealand defeated South Africa 13–5 in Dunedin. Over time, the rivalry has been described as the biggest in rugby history.

Between 1928 and 1929, the All Blacks toured South Africa, playing 22 matches and winning 16, with the two-test series ending in a 2–2 draw. In 1949, the Springboks whitewashed the All Blacks 4–0, and in 1956, New Zealand secured a celebrated series victory in South Africa.

By the year 2000, New Zealand led the head-to-head record by one win, with 27 wins to South Africa’s 26. Since 2004, the two teams have competed for the Freedom Cup as part of the Tri Nations and Rugby Championship.

New Zealand did not win a test series in South Africa between 1953 and the end of apartheid. South Africa returned to international rugby in 1992, and even by 1996, New Zealand still had not won a full series on South African soil.

Between 2000 and 2020, New Zealand won 31 of the test matches between the teams, while South Africa won 10. Since Rassie Erasmus became head coach in 2018, South Africa has recorded seven wins, five losses, and one draw against New Zealand.

Aaron Judge became the fastest player in Major League Baseball history to hit 350 career home runs during the Yankees’ 5-2 loss to the Chicago Cubs at Yankee Stadium. He reached the milestone in his 1,088th game, surpassing Mark McGwire’s previous record of 1,280 games.

Judge hit the two-run homer in the ninth inning on a high 0-2 fastball from Cubs reliever Brad Keller – his 35th home run of the season. He also recorded two doubles and went 3-for-4 on the day. His batting average increased to .358, and he now has 81 RBIs in 2025.

After the game, Judge said, “I honestly got nothing, to be honest. It would’ve been great if we got a win today, to do something like that. I’ve been surrounded by some great teammates and been on some good teams that have really put me in the best position to go out there and perform at my best. So it’s really just a shoutout to all the teammates I’ve had over the years.”

Manager Aaron Boone commented, “Wow. I mean, I don’t know what to say about it. Because I just think he’s playing in a different league. I just had a moment with him in there [in the clubhouse], just congratulating him — like, that’s a pretty big number. The fact that it’s 200 games faster than McGwire is just a testament to his greatness.”

Cubs Hold Off Yankees, Boyd Wins Duel Against Fried

Chicago starter Matthew Boyd pitched eight scoreless innings. He gave up four hits, walked none, and struck out six. Plus, he threw 62 of his 85 pitches for strikes. Boyd improved to 10-3, earning his fourth straight win and fifth consecutive decision.

Yankees starter Max Fried allowed nine of 18 batters to reach base. He gave up four runs, three earned, on six hits and three walks over three innings. Fried threw 39 of 73 pitches for strikes. He exited early due to a blister. Fried has previously gone on the injured list for blisters in 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2023. Before the game, he had a 6-0 record against the Cubs.

Nico Hoerner tripled to lead off the game and scored on Kyle Tucker’s groundout. In the third inning, Carson Kelly and Ian Happ hit run-scoring singles. Dansby Swanson added an RBI groundout.

Carson Kelly hit a solo home run in the eighth off Jonathan Loaisiga. Loaisiga has now allowed seven home runs over 23⅓ innings this season, the most he has allowed in any year of his career.

Daniel Palencia recorded the final two outs for the Cubs. His fastball reached 101.1 mph. He earned his 11th save in 12 chances.

Betting Markets Respond to Player Performance and Team Trends

Before the July 12 game, online sportsbooks showed movement in betting lines. According to FanDuel, the Yankees opened at –172 but shifted to –156 by game day. The Cubs moved from +144 to +132. The spread remained at Yankees –1.5 runs, with the total set around 9 to 9.5 runs, depending on the sportsbook.

Aaron Judge entered the season with +310 odds to win the American League MVP, according to DraftKings. By early May, the odds shifted to –160. As of midseason, Judge is the current favorite at multiple sportsbooks, including BetMGM and PointsBet.

Judge’s All-Star Game MVP odds are +600 at DraftKings. Shohei Ohtani is ahead of him at +500. OddsChecker listed Judge at +750.

Additional All-Star props at DraftKings include +100 for one or more hits, +600 for a home run, and +340 for one or more RBIs. The Action Network reported that Judge held approximately 9% of MVP prop bets, with Ohtani holding around 10%.

World Series futures from Vegas Insider list the Yankees at +700, tied for the second-best odds behind the Dodgers. Caesars listed Judge at +7500 to finish the season with a .400 batting average. This reflects a 1.32% implied probability.

A Record-Breaking Day Grounded in Respect for the Game

Beyond the numbers, Judge was reflective when asked about his place in history. Judge debuted in 2016 at age 24. He turned 33 in April 2025. He leads all players in home runs through their first 1,088 games, with 50 more than Ralph Kiner.

Mark McGwire finished his career with 583 home runs and retired in 2001 at age 38. He admitted in 2010 to using performance-enhancing drugs and has not been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Judge said of McGwire, “Big Mac did a lot of great things in this game, and he’s definitely a legend. It was cool when I got the opportunity to meet him and talk with him on the phone a little bit. He’s a special one, that’s for sure. … He’s been great over the years.”

Judge added that their first conversation began when McGwire’s son had a similar injury, “I think it started with when I broke my first rib. I think his son was kind of going through the same thing, so he was first asking me how did I heal? What do we do? So I kind of gave him some tips on that. And then we just kind of chit-chatted a little bit and kept in contact.”

Among the six fastest players to 350 home runs, McGwire, Juan Gonzalez, Alex Rodriguez, Harmon Killebrew, and Albert Pujols, only Killebrew is in the Hall of Fame. Rodriguez and Gonzalez were not elected due to PED connections, while Pujols is not eligible until 2028.

The NBA has showcased countless elite athletes, but only a rare group has ascended to true legendary status. These basketball icons didn’t just win titles—they transformed the sport, shattered records, and influenced generations of players and fans alike.

From Michael Jordan’s dominance to Stephen Curry’s revolutionary shooting, these top 10 NBA legends have carved their names into the fabric of basketball history.

Join us as we break down the greatest players to ever grace the hardwood.

10 Top NBA Players of All Time

There have been many NBA legends in the history of basketball, and all of them have left their own mark on the sport. Let’s have a look at the most stand-out players in basketball history.

1. Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan is on our list of the top 10 NBA players of all time.

Michael Jordan, often heralded as the greatest basketball player of all time, played 15 seasons in the NBA, predominantly with the Chicago Bulls.

Jordan’s career is marked by his incredible scoring ability, having amassed 32,292 points. His defensive prowess is underscored by his three-time lead in the league in steals.

Not only did Michael Jordan win six NBA championships and six Finals MVPs, but he was also a five-time regular-season MVP. Off the court, Jordan’s influence extended into cultural and commercial realms, significantly impacting basketball’s global popularity.

His contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. He has also been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his contributions both on and off the court​ – no wonder he is among the most famous NBA players ever!

2. LeBron James

Coming up next as one of the top 10 basketball players of all time, we have LeBron James.

LeBron James is celebrated not only for his impressive skill set, which includes scoring, passing, and defense but also for his basketball IQ, which has made him one of the sport’s most versatile players.

Over his career, LeBron James has secured four NBA championships and four MVP awards, distinguishing himself by his ability to carry his team in critical moments, often across multiple teams.

His longevity in the sport and continued high performance have solidified his place among basketball’s elite.

3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar remains the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, a testament to his long and productive career spanned 20 seasons.

Known for his trademark skyhook shot, Abdul-Jabbar won six NBA championships and was named MVP six times.

His scoring record stands as a towering benchmark for excellence in the NBA. Abdul-Jabbar’s impact extended beyond the court, as evidenced by his significant contributions to social and cultural discussions throughout his career​.

4. Bill Russell

Bill Russell, a towering figure in NBA history, led the Boston Celtics to 11 championships over his 13-year career.

Not only did he revolutionize the role of a defensive center, but his leadership extended beyond the court as he became the first African American coach in a major American professional sports league.

His defensive skills, especially in rebounding and shot-blocking, were unparalleled, contributing significantly to the Celtics’ dominance during his era.

Russell was a five-time MVP and a 12-time All-Star, renowned for his ability to change games with his defensive prowess.

Off the court, Russell was also a prominent civil rights activist, supporting Muhammad Ali during his legal troubles and advocating for racial equality​.

5. Magic Johnson

Magic Johnson revolutionized the point guard position with his rare combination of 6’9″ height, elite court vision, and unmatched passing skills.

During his legendary run with the Los Angeles Lakers, he captured five NBA championships and earned three league MVP awards.

A central figure in the NBA’s 1980s boom, Johnson’s showtime flair and intense rivalry with Larry Bird helped bring global attention to the sport.

Their iconic battles not only defined a golden era but also played a major role in the NBA’s surge in popularity.

6. Larry Bird

Larry Bird, known for his sharpshooting and clutch performances, was one of the most formidable forwards in NBA history.

Bird played his entire career for the Boston Celtics. From 1984 to 1986, He led his team to three NBA championships and secured three consecutive MVP awards.

His rivalry with Magic Johnson, marked by numerous memorable clashes, helped catapult the NBA to new heights of popularity.

Bird’s ability to perform under pressure made him a legend in the sport. He is particularly known for his quick release and accuracy from beyond the arc​.

7. Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal, commonly known as Shaq, is one of the most dominant centers in NBA history.

His NBA career spanned 19 years, during which he played for teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat. Shaq’s accolades include four NBA championships, three NBA Finals MVPs, and one league MVP award.

He was known for his immense physical strength and charismatic personality on and off the court. Additionally, Shaq was a 15-time All-Star and was named to the All-NBA Team 14 times.

His influence extended beyond basketball, significantly contributing to media and entertainment. Shaq was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, reflecting his outstanding contributions to the sport.

8. Tim Duncan

Tim Duncan, nicknamed “The Big Fundamental,” is celebrated for his skill and consistency throughout his NBA career, all of which he spent with the San Antonio Spurs.

Duncan led the Spurs to five NBA championships and was twice named the league MVP.

His career is highlighted by 15 All-Star selections and consistent performance, which earned him spots on both the All-NBA and All-Defensive Teams for 13 consecutive seasons.

Duncan’s leadership and fundamental skills helped define the Spurs’ dynasty, making him one of the greatest power forwards in basketball history.

The Spurs retired his number 21 jersey as a tribute to his impact on the team and the sport.

9. Hakeem Olajuwon

Hakeem Olajuwon, known as “The Dream,” is famed for his incredible footwork and defensive prowess.

Playing primarily for the Houston Rockets, he led the NBA in blocks several times and finished his career as the all-time leader in blocks.

Olajuwon won two NBA championships and was a 12-time All-Star. His defensive skills earned him the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award twice.

Olajuwon’s legacy is marked by his defensive and scoring abilities and his role in popularizing the NBA globally.

He was also inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the sport​.

10. Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry is widely regarded as the best shooter in NBA history. Playing for the Golden State Warriors, he transformed the game with his exceptional three-point shooting.

Curry has won four NBA championships and two MVP awards. He holds the record for the most three-pointers made in a season and was pivotal in shifting the NBA’s focus toward the three-point shot.

Curry’s playstyle and success have significantly influenced both the Warriors’ dominance and the evolution of basketball strategy, which focuses more on long-range shooting.

Other Legendary NBA Players

While NBA legends have cemented their place in history, a new generation of rising stars is reshaping the league and redefining the future of the game.

Victor Wembanyama—dubbed the “basketball unicorn”—is making waves with the San Antonio Spurs, showcasing a rare blend of size, skill, and all-around versatility. Explosive talents like Ja Morant and Anthony Edwards are electrifying crowds with highlight-reel plays and emerging leadership, propelling their teams into playoff contention.

Tyrese Haliburton continues to shine for the Indiana Pacers, standing out with his elite playmaking and basketball IQ, while Karl-Anthony Towns remains a consistent All-Star force for the New York Knicks.

Together, these young NBA standouts are not just the future—they’re potential legends in the making.

Who Is the Greatest NBA Player of All Time?

The players listed as the top 10 NBA players of all time have mastered the game of basketball and left an indelible mark on the sport.

Their contributions transcend their impressive statistics and championship rings, influencing generations of players and fans.

Each player has uniquely shaped the NBA, from Michael Jordan’s iconic impact to Stephen Curry’s game-changing three-point shooting.

Their legacies remind us that greatness in basketball is not just about talent but also about the ability to inspire, innovate, and elevate the game for future generations.