If you’re visiting this page, you’re likely seeking some assistance with playing [Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), *The New York Times*’ distinctive version of the classic word search puzzle.
### How to Play Strands
Strands invites players to discover words by linking adjacent letters in any direction—up, down, left, right, or diagonally. Unlike standard word searches, Strands allows for words to shift directions, forming intriguing shapes. Each letter in the grid contributes to a solution.
Every puzzle features a central theme that connects all the words, alongside a special term or phrase known as the “spangram.” The spangram embodies the day’s theme and spans the entire grid either horizontally or vertically.
### Why Strands Stands Out
In contrast to games like [Wordle](https://mashable.com/category/wordle) or [Connections](https://mashable.com/category/connections), Strands does not offer a list of words, resulting in a more demanding and time-consuming experience. The game provides only a broad hint, compelling players to engage in critical thinking and establish connections.
If you find yourself in need of assistance or pressed for time, we have hints available to aid you in solving today’s Strands puzzle at your own pace.
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## **Today’s NYT Strands Hints**
### **Theme Hint: Playing the Field**
The words for today are all connected to baseball.
### **Theme Explanation**
Each word corresponds to a singular form of an MLB team name from the same league.
### **Spangram Hint: Direction**
Today’s spangram is organized horizontally.
### **Spangram Answer**
The spangram for today is: **NationalLeague**
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## **NYT Strands Word List for March 27**
– **Brewer**
– **Pirate**
– **Giant**
– **Brave**
– **Dodger**
– **Marlin**
– **NationalLeague**
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### **More Games and Puzzles**
In search of more daily puzzles? Visit [Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games) for extra hints and solutions. You can also check out [Mashable’s game hub](https://games.mashable.com/) for offerings like Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and more.
Missed yesterday’s puzzle? [Locate the solution here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-march-26-2025).