7 hours ago
Good morning, folks…
The Texas Rangers fell to the Houston Astros by a score of 5-4 last night.
Shawn McFarland writes the Rangers' ongoing problems with the bases loaded hurt them again in the loss.
Brandon Nimmo hit the 10 year service time mark yesterday.
Jeff Wilson asks whether the Rangers should add another starting pitcher at Monday's deadline.
#rangers #texas #houston #jeff
The Texas Rangers fell to the Houston Astros by a score of 5-4 last night.
Shawn McFarland writes the Rangers' ongoing problems with the bases loaded hurt them again in the loss.
Brandon Nimmo hit the 10 year service time mark yesterday.
Jeff Wilson asks whether the Rangers should add another starting pitcher at Monday's deadline.
#rangers #texas #houston #jeff
17 hours ago
The Detroit Tigers may be on the verge of trading the face of their pitching staff.
According to a social media post attributed to ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan, the Los Angeles Dodgers are finalizing a trade to acquire Tigers ace Tarik Skubal.
The reported deal had not yet been formally announced by either organization, and the players heading back to Detroit were not immediately known.
Los Angeles had emerged as a leading contender for Skubal in recent trade reports, with the Dodgers possessing the young pitching and outfield depth needed to build a serious offer. The New York Yankees and Milwaukee Brewers had also been connected to Detroit's two-time defending American League Cy Young Award winner.
Trading Skubal would represent the most consequential move of Scott Harris' tenure.
#trading #according
According to a social media post attributed to ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan, the Los Angeles Dodgers are finalizing a trade to acquire Tigers ace Tarik Skubal.
The reported deal had not yet been formally announced by either organization, and the players heading back to Detroit were not immediately known.
Los Angeles had emerged as a leading contender for Skubal in recent trade reports, with the Dodgers possessing the young pitching and outfield depth needed to build a serious offer. The New York Yankees and Milwaukee Brewers had also been connected to Detroit's two-time defending American League Cy Young Award winner.
Trading Skubal would represent the most consequential move of Scott Harris' tenure.
#trading #according
24 hours ago
The Bucs dealt with a lot of injuries in 2025, and several players are ready to turn the page and see others perform the way they know they can. From Baker Mayfield to Cody Mauch to Bucky Irving, a lot of those players looking for a bounceback are on offense. In fact, two of those names were connected this week after one spoke to the media.
Mauch is coming back from a season-ending knee injury and has a chip of his own on his shoulder. He spoke to the media on Friday and shared how several Bucs are itching to prove themselves, but especially Baker Mayfield.
He explained it while talking about the contract issues between Mayfield and the franchise, saying, "It sucks to see him go through this and whatnot, but it's not going to change his mentality, the way he plays. . .he's going to go off."
Mauch will play a big part in Mayfield having the year he expects. The offensive line being hurt led to some issues with Mayfield and his health. If both parties are healthy and there for each other on the field, then the results will likely speak for themselves.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs' Cody Mauch believes Baker Mayfield is 'going to go off'
#baker
Mauch is coming back from a season-ending knee injury and has a chip of his own on his shoulder. He spoke to the media on Friday and shared how several Bucs are itching to prove themselves, but especially Baker Mayfield.
He explained it while talking about the contract issues between Mayfield and the franchise, saying, "It sucks to see him go through this and whatnot, but it's not going to change his mentality, the way he plays. . .he's going to go off."
Mauch will play a big part in Mayfield having the year he expects. The offensive line being hurt led to some issues with Mayfield and his health. If both parties are healthy and there for each other on the field, then the results will likely speak for themselves.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs' Cody Mauch believes Baker Mayfield is 'going to go off'
#baker
2 days ago
The Indiana Fever picked up their fifth straight win on Friday night, taking down the Portland Fire, 112-98 at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon.
Caitlin Clark had the fourth triple double of her career, notching 26 points, 10 ****** ist, and 10 rebounds in 34 minutes. Kelsey Mitchell also had 26 points, while Monique Billings added on 15.
The Fever have moved up to fourth in the WNBA and will finish out their road trip on Sunday against the Minnesota Lynx. Here's what I liked and disliked about the game:
Caitlin Clark's clutch shot: There isn't anything that Clark can't do. The Fever star, with less than five seconds left in the first quarter, sprinted down the court and three up a 3-pointer through contact. It was a shot, frankly, that looked like a desperate attempt to beat the buzzer. But it swished into the basket to give the Fever a two-point lead at the end of the quarter. Clark thought she was fouled too, but there wasn't one called.
Second-quarter takeaways: After what seemed like a lackluster first quarter, the Fever turned up their game in the second. Indiana picked up five steals in those 10 minutes, including a Sophie Cunningham steal that turned into a dime from Clark to Kelsey Mitchell, then an Aliyah Boston steal that turned into a knockdown 3-pointer from Cunningham. That helped the Fever to go on a 14-2 run throughout the quarter and extend their lead into halftime.
#clark #quarter #portland #caitlin
Caitlin Clark had the fourth triple double of her career, notching 26 points, 10 ****** ist, and 10 rebounds in 34 minutes. Kelsey Mitchell also had 26 points, while Monique Billings added on 15.
The Fever have moved up to fourth in the WNBA and will finish out their road trip on Sunday against the Minnesota Lynx. Here's what I liked and disliked about the game:
Caitlin Clark's clutch shot: There isn't anything that Clark can't do. The Fever star, with less than five seconds left in the first quarter, sprinted down the court and three up a 3-pointer through contact. It was a shot, frankly, that looked like a desperate attempt to beat the buzzer. But it swished into the basket to give the Fever a two-point lead at the end of the quarter. Clark thought she was fouled too, but there wasn't one called.
Second-quarter takeaways: After what seemed like a lackluster first quarter, the Fever turned up their game in the second. Indiana picked up five steals in those 10 minutes, including a Sophie Cunningham steal that turned into a dime from Clark to Kelsey Mitchell, then an Aliyah Boston steal that turned into a knockdown 3-pointer from Cunningham. That helped the Fever to go on a 14-2 run throughout the quarter and extend their lead into halftime.
#clark #quarter #portland #caitlin
2 days ago
Over the years, we've seen sales for the Big 4 sports teams continue to rise drastically, with the Seattle Seahawks being sold for a record $9.612 billion earlier this month.
That has begged the question: what are the top college programs worth if they were potentially sold? The Athletic ran that exercise last year, looking at every team's revenue and inherent value based on brand power, conference value, and more.
Wisconsin came in 19th in the country last year with a valuation of $801 million, which topped schools like Iowa ($709 million), Indiana ($386 million), Arkansas ($646 million), Michigan State ($708 million), Clemson ($665 million), Minnesota ($562 million), and more.
Where did they come in the rankings this year?
Interestingly enough, the Badgers came in at No. 19 again, only this time at a valuation of $922 million, remaining one of the top powers in college athletics. That got them ahead of Florida State, which fell two spots to No. 20 at an $819 million valuation, and still ahead of Iowa, which remained at No. 21 at an $806 million valuation.
#sold #came
That has begged the question: what are the top college programs worth if they were potentially sold? The Athletic ran that exercise last year, looking at every team's revenue and inherent value based on brand power, conference value, and more.
Wisconsin came in 19th in the country last year with a valuation of $801 million, which topped schools like Iowa ($709 million), Indiana ($386 million), Arkansas ($646 million), Michigan State ($708 million), Clemson ($665 million), Minnesota ($562 million), and more.
Where did they come in the rankings this year?
Interestingly enough, the Badgers came in at No. 19 again, only this time at a valuation of $922 million, remaining one of the top powers in college athletics. That got them ahead of Florida State, which fell two spots to No. 20 at an $819 million valuation, and still ahead of Iowa, which remained at No. 21 at an $806 million valuation.
#sold #came
2 days ago
HONG KONG – Everything is set at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong, where Inter and Manchester City will face each other on Saturday at 19:30 local time (13:30 CEST) for an international friendly.
The match will be broadcast live on DAZN and on Sky, at no extra cost for existing subscribers, while non-subscribers will be able to watch via pay-per-view on OneFootball and DAZN.
On the eve of the friendly, Inter head coach Cristian Chivu answered questions from journalists at his pre-match press conference. Before doing so, however, the Nerazzurri coach paid tribute to Franco Baresi: "We join the world of sport in sending our condolences to Franco Baresi's family. Everyone who loves football has lost a great icon of this sport."
How important is it for you to be here, and what message do you want to send to the fans who are here in Hong Kong?
"It's truly a pleasure to be here, in this incredible place. We are in the preparation phase for the new season, but it is special for us to have the opportunity to play here against a great team like Manchester City. Even if neither team is at 100%, everyone will certainly be happy with the level of performance we try to produce on the pitch."
#kong
The match will be broadcast live on DAZN and on Sky, at no extra cost for existing subscribers, while non-subscribers will be able to watch via pay-per-view on OneFootball and DAZN.
On the eve of the friendly, Inter head coach Cristian Chivu answered questions from journalists at his pre-match press conference. Before doing so, however, the Nerazzurri coach paid tribute to Franco Baresi: "We join the world of sport in sending our condolences to Franco Baresi's family. Everyone who loves football has lost a great icon of this sport."
How important is it for you to be here, and what message do you want to send to the fans who are here in Hong Kong?
"It's truly a pleasure to be here, in this incredible place. We are in the preparation phase for the new season, but it is special for us to have the opportunity to play here against a great team like Manchester City. Even if neither team is at 100%, everyone will certainly be happy with the level of performance we try to produce on the pitch."
#kong
3 days ago
According to SPORT, FC Barcelona have officially been notified of the complaint filed by Atletico Madrid over the club's pursuit of Julian Alvarez.
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has opened disciplinary proceedings into the matter and given the Catalan club a deadline to submit their response.
The complaint centres on allegations that the Blaugrana held discussions with the Argentine striker while he remains under contract at Atlético until 2030.
The notification from the RFEF informs Barcelona that a formal case has been opened and grants the club several days to present its arguments.
Barcelona's legal team is already reviewing Atletico's complaint and intends to submit a full response defending the club's actions.
#sport
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has opened disciplinary proceedings into the matter and given the Catalan club a deadline to submit their response.
The complaint centres on allegations that the Blaugrana held discussions with the Argentine striker while he remains under contract at Atlético until 2030.
The notification from the RFEF informs Barcelona that a formal case has been opened and grants the club several days to present its arguments.
Barcelona's legal team is already reviewing Atletico's complaint and intends to submit a full response defending the club's actions.
#sport
4 days ago
Anthony Slater: To further clarify: Draymond Green is waiving implicit no trade clause and will receive 15% trade kicker - just like previous deal. Designed as if he never declined option. Warriors have no intention to trade him, but maintain ability (and he'd get bonus).
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Draymond Green is waiving implicit no trade clause and …
#trade #implicit #clause
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Draymond Green is waiving implicit no trade clause and …
#trade #implicit #clause
5 days ago
Brentford are moving with intent in the market and Mamadou Sangaré has emerged as a leading target as the club reshapes its midfield ahead of the new season. According to L'Equipe, discussions with RC Lens are at an advanced stage over a deal worth €48m for the 24-year-old defensive midfielder.
The report points to a process that has been building quietly over recent weeks, with contact maintained between the clubs while Brentford prepare for the expected departure of Jordan Henderson, who is heading towards Chelsea. In that context, Sangaré appears to fit a clear recruitment brief, a midfielder capable of protecting the back line, covering ground and bringing authority in central areas.
Photo IMAGO
Sangaré's stock has risen sharply after an impressive Ligue 1 campaign. He played a major role in Lens putting together an excellent season, helping drive their push for Champions League qualification and contributing to their Coupe de France success. That form has placed him firmly on the radar of Premier League clubs, and Brentford seem to have acted decisively.
What stands out here is the level of progress. This does not read like early-stage interest or background admiration. With an agreement described as close, Brentford appear to be working towards the final steps of a significant signing, one that would represent a major investment at €48m.
#brentford #season #stage #towards
The report points to a process that has been building quietly over recent weeks, with contact maintained between the clubs while Brentford prepare for the expected departure of Jordan Henderson, who is heading towards Chelsea. In that context, Sangaré appears to fit a clear recruitment brief, a midfielder capable of protecting the back line, covering ground and bringing authority in central areas.
Photo IMAGO
Sangaré's stock has risen sharply after an impressive Ligue 1 campaign. He played a major role in Lens putting together an excellent season, helping drive their push for Champions League qualification and contributing to their Coupe de France success. That form has placed him firmly on the radar of Premier League clubs, and Brentford seem to have acted decisively.
What stands out here is the level of progress. This does not read like early-stage interest or background admiration. With an agreement described as close, Brentford appear to be working towards the final steps of a significant signing, one that would represent a major investment at €48m.
#brentford #season #stage #towards
5 days ago
On Today's episode of the College Football Enquirer, Andy Staples, Ross Dellenger, and Steven Godfrey dive into the latest on Mike Lombardi and how it has all gone awry during the Bill Belichick era.
From there the trio dissects the latest from Stanford as the players have formed the first ever on campus chapter of the CFPA.
To round out the show, we break down Ohio State's new jersey logo and just how much Chase was willing to pay for the valuable real estate on the Buckeye's scarlet jerseys.
All this and more on this episode of the College Football Enquirer.
00:00 Show Rundown
#show #episode #latest
From there the trio dissects the latest from Stanford as the players have formed the first ever on campus chapter of the CFPA.
To round out the show, we break down Ohio State's new jersey logo and just how much Chase was willing to pay for the valuable real estate on the Buckeye's scarlet jerseys.
All this and more on this episode of the College Football Enquirer.
00:00 Show Rundown
#show #episode #latest
8 days ago
India's 'Best Attitude Award' winners during Zimbabwe T20I series: Full list and why stand-in coach VVS Laxman introduced it originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
VVS Laxman introduces 'Best Attitude Award' during the Zimbabwe T20I series.
Award recognises effort, commitment beyond just skill or stats.
Tilak Varma wins inaugural medal for on- and off-field intensity.
Interim India coach VVS Laxman has rolled out a fresh initiative during the ongoing T20I series against Zimbabwe, introducing what he's calling the 'Best Attitude Award' to recognise players for qualities that don't always show up on a scorecard.
#best #zimbabwe #t20i #laxman
VVS Laxman introduces 'Best Attitude Award' during the Zimbabwe T20I series.
Award recognises effort, commitment beyond just skill or stats.
Tilak Varma wins inaugural medal for on- and off-field intensity.
Interim India coach VVS Laxman has rolled out a fresh initiative during the ongoing T20I series against Zimbabwe, introducing what he's calling the 'Best Attitude Award' to recognise players for qualities that don't always show up on a scorecard.
#best #zimbabwe #t20i #laxman
9 days ago
Friday marked day two of training camp for the Carolina Panthers, and it was the first time the team took the field since linebacker Nic Scourton tore his ACL Thursday.
Channel 9 sports director Phil Orban spoke to safety Trevon Moehrig about the reaction from the team.
ALSO READ: Panthers lose OLB Nic Scourton to torn ACL on first day of training camp, AP source says
"It's super unfortunate, like I said; we knew the work he put in all offseason grinding, working his ***** off, and he said it perfectly: it's God's timing, and we all believe in that for us; it's just to come out and keep the energy up, just to keep working, keep grinding," Moehrig said. "Season time, we got games coming up quick, and we got to get better every day and work towards that, so that was the mindset."
Moehrig also said he feels comfortable in the second year of the defensive scheme and system.
#panthers #training #team #work
Channel 9 sports director Phil Orban spoke to safety Trevon Moehrig about the reaction from the team.
ALSO READ: Panthers lose OLB Nic Scourton to torn ACL on first day of training camp, AP source says
"It's super unfortunate, like I said; we knew the work he put in all offseason grinding, working his ***** off, and he said it perfectly: it's God's timing, and we all believe in that for us; it's just to come out and keep the energy up, just to keep working, keep grinding," Moehrig said. "Season time, we got games coming up quick, and we got to get better every day and work towards that, so that was the mindset."
Moehrig also said he feels comfortable in the second year of the defensive scheme and system.
#panthers #training #team #work
9 days ago
The Royals (43-61) and the Tigers (49-54) continue their four-game AL Central series tonight at Comerica Park in Detroit.
Detroit rallied late last night to earn a 4-3 victory over Kansas City in the series opener. It was Detroit’s fourteenth win in their last nineteen games. The Royals carried a 2-0 lead into the seventh inning thanks to a two-run homer from Isaac Collins and five scoreless innings from Randy Dobnak. However, the Tigers answered when James Outman blasted a three-run homer in the bottom of the seventh to put Detroit ahead. After Kansas City tied the game 3-3 in the eighth on Josh Rojas' RBI single, Dillon Dingler delivered the game-winning RBI double in the bottom of the inning. Drew Anderson earned the win and Kyle Finnegan recorded the save. With the win, the Tigers pulled to within six games of first in the AL Central.
Tonight is a bullpen game for the Royals. Beck Way (1-0, 3.22 ERA) gets the start but probably will go no more than two innings. That said, the 26-year-old right-hander has made a strong impression in limited major-league action, striking out 21 batters over 22.1 innings. He has allowed two earned runs over 7.1 innings this month. Beck’s opponent on the mound for the Tigers is arguably the best pitcher in baseball, Tarik Skubal (6-5, 2.83 ERA). The Cy Young winner has 98 strikeouts in 82.2 innings. In his last start, July 18 against the Angels, Skubal was dominant allowing just five hits over seven scoreless innings. Skubal has allowed just four earned runs across his last four starts while recording 32 strikeouts in 23 innings.
The Royals continue to be without the left side of their infield with Bobby Witt Jr. (back) and Maikel Garcia (hand) sidelined with injuries.
Lets dive into tonight’s matchup and find a sweat or two.
#innings #tonight
Detroit rallied late last night to earn a 4-3 victory over Kansas City in the series opener. It was Detroit’s fourteenth win in their last nineteen games. The Royals carried a 2-0 lead into the seventh inning thanks to a two-run homer from Isaac Collins and five scoreless innings from Randy Dobnak. However, the Tigers answered when James Outman blasted a three-run homer in the bottom of the seventh to put Detroit ahead. After Kansas City tied the game 3-3 in the eighth on Josh Rojas' RBI single, Dillon Dingler delivered the game-winning RBI double in the bottom of the inning. Drew Anderson earned the win and Kyle Finnegan recorded the save. With the win, the Tigers pulled to within six games of first in the AL Central.
Tonight is a bullpen game for the Royals. Beck Way (1-0, 3.22 ERA) gets the start but probably will go no more than two innings. That said, the 26-year-old right-hander has made a strong impression in limited major-league action, striking out 21 batters over 22.1 innings. He has allowed two earned runs over 7.1 innings this month. Beck’s opponent on the mound for the Tigers is arguably the best pitcher in baseball, Tarik Skubal (6-5, 2.83 ERA). The Cy Young winner has 98 strikeouts in 82.2 innings. In his last start, July 18 against the Angels, Skubal was dominant allowing just five hits over seven scoreless innings. Skubal has allowed just four earned runs across his last four starts while recording 32 strikeouts in 23 innings.
The Royals continue to be without the left side of their infield with Bobby Witt Jr. (back) and Maikel Garcia (hand) sidelined with injuries.
Lets dive into tonight’s matchup and find a sweat or two.
#innings #tonight
10 days ago
Team Wisco and general manager Gord Ash didn't go with perhaps the obvious choice in making the first pick of the Milwaukee Brewers Alumni Legends Game, a selection made at the Saint Kate hotel in downtown Milwaukee on July 23.
A fleet of former Brewers players will be on hand at American Family Field for a three-inning alumni showcase July 24, following the Brewers' regularly scheduled game against the Colorado Rockies, which starts at 3:10 p.m. CT. Former Brewers general manager Doug Melvin (Team Milwaukee) and his top **** istant, Ash (Team Wisco), selected the teams a day in advance, with former coaches Garth Iorg (Team Wisco) and Ed Sedar (Team Milwaukee) serving as managers.
Ryan Braun was on the board, but Ash went with a player he called "the former Ohtani" in selecting Yovani Gallardo, the ex-Brewers standout pitcher who could also hit a little bit during his tenure with the Brewers from 2007-2014, with 12 career home runs.
With the chance to draft six position players, two catchers and seven pitchers, there's a boatload of value in a pitcher who can do a little work in the field. A later-round pick for Brooks Kieschnick demonstrated further how much Ash had this in mind.
Melvin and Sedar quickly snapped Braun up with their first-round pick. "I'm going to have to tell him the game's only three innings," Melvin said. "He didn't start hitting in the clutch until the seventh, eighth and ninth inning, so I'm a little worried."
#melvin
A fleet of former Brewers players will be on hand at American Family Field for a three-inning alumni showcase July 24, following the Brewers' regularly scheduled game against the Colorado Rockies, which starts at 3:10 p.m. CT. Former Brewers general manager Doug Melvin (Team Milwaukee) and his top **** istant, Ash (Team Wisco), selected the teams a day in advance, with former coaches Garth Iorg (Team Wisco) and Ed Sedar (Team Milwaukee) serving as managers.
Ryan Braun was on the board, but Ash went with a player he called "the former Ohtani" in selecting Yovani Gallardo, the ex-Brewers standout pitcher who could also hit a little bit during his tenure with the Brewers from 2007-2014, with 12 career home runs.
With the chance to draft six position players, two catchers and seven pitchers, there's a boatload of value in a pitcher who can do a little work in the field. A later-round pick for Brooks Kieschnick demonstrated further how much Ash had this in mind.
Melvin and Sedar quickly snapped Braun up with their first-round pick. "I'm going to have to tell him the game's only three innings," Melvin said. "He didn't start hitting in the clutch until the seventh, eighth and ninth inning, so I'm a little worried."
#melvin
10 days ago
Plymouth Argyle have brought back central defender Alex Mitchell on a three-year-deal from Championship side Charlton Athletic for an undisclosed fee.
The 24-year-old was a mainstay of the Argyle defence during his season-long loan in 2025-2026, making 40 League One appearances as they finished eighth, two points adrift of the play-offs.
He was also named Supporters' Player of the Season after shoring up a defence that conceded 88 goals in their relegation from the Championship the previous season.
Head coach Tom Cleverley told the club website: "I'm so happy we've got Mitch back with us. He was superb for us last season, and everyone knows what a huge presence he is, both in the defence, and off the field.
"You need characters like him in a group if you are to be successful. What is also so nice is his desire to return. He clearly enjoyed playing in green and white, and for him to want to come back is very pleasing to us."
#mitchell #charlton
The 24-year-old was a mainstay of the Argyle defence during his season-long loan in 2025-2026, making 40 League One appearances as they finished eighth, two points adrift of the play-offs.
He was also named Supporters' Player of the Season after shoring up a defence that conceded 88 goals in their relegation from the Championship the previous season.
Head coach Tom Cleverley told the club website: "I'm so happy we've got Mitch back with us. He was superb for us last season, and everyone knows what a huge presence he is, both in the defence, and off the field.
"You need characters like him in a group if you are to be successful. What is also so nice is his desire to return. He clearly enjoyed playing in green and white, and for him to want to come back is very pleasing to us."
#mitchell #charlton
11 days ago
For the first time since the end of the World Cup, the Brazilian Championship had a night full of matches.
Four games were played this Wednesday (22), and in all of them the away team left the field with all three points.
League leaders Palmeiras beat Coritiba, but Flamengo did not let the gap widen after defeating Chapecoense.
Meanwhile, Athletico overcame São Paulo and moved up to third place.
Wrapping up the night, Cruzeiro beat Inter and also climbed the standings.
#wednesday #league
Four games were played this Wednesday (22), and in all of them the away team left the field with all three points.
League leaders Palmeiras beat Coritiba, but Flamengo did not let the gap widen after defeating Chapecoense.
Meanwhile, Athletico overcame São Paulo and moved up to third place.
Wrapping up the night, Cruzeiro beat Inter and also climbed the standings.
#wednesday #league
11 days ago
CLEVELAND — Guardians outfielder Petey Halpin hit the first home run of his career, and hitting coach Grant Fink knew what was coming once the rookie returned to the dugout.
It’s not often anyone welcomes a slap to the face, but this circumstance fit that bill.
For the last month or so, as mostly a joke, Fink has slapped Halpin before games to sort of get him ready, in a sense, and wake him up a bit. It reached a point that Halpin joked that once he hit his first career home run, he’d slap Fink back.
“We’ve talked about it a bunch of times and he was like, ‘Go for it, I’d love to see it,’” Halpin said with a smile. “Every time he hit me, I’m like, ‘My home run’s coming.’ He’s like, ‘I want you to.’”
So as Halpin rounded the bases after his first home run in the second inning of the Guardians’ 13-4 win over the Minnesota Twins on July 20, Fink was getting ready for his end of the bargain in the dugout. The piper must be paid.
#Guardians
It’s not often anyone welcomes a slap to the face, but this circumstance fit that bill.
For the last month or so, as mostly a joke, Fink has slapped Halpin before games to sort of get him ready, in a sense, and wake him up a bit. It reached a point that Halpin joked that once he hit his first career home run, he’d slap Fink back.
“We’ve talked about it a bunch of times and he was like, ‘Go for it, I’d love to see it,’” Halpin said with a smile. “Every time he hit me, I’m like, ‘My home run’s coming.’ He’s like, ‘I want you to.’”
So as Halpin rounded the bases after his first home run in the second inning of the Guardians’ 13-4 win over the Minnesota Twins on July 20, Fink was getting ready for his end of the bargain in the dugout. The piper must be paid.
#Guardians
12 days ago
Tulsa National Little League has been disqualified from the Little League Softball Southwest Region Tournament, Little League International officials confirmed.
The Little League International Tournament Committee determined that the adult volunteers and parents did not provide "sufficient documentation to verify that all players were eligible to participate in the International Tournament based on either their school enrollment or bona fide habitation within the league's official boundaries," a statement released on Tuesday, July 21, said.
As a result, the committee removed the team from the Southwest Region Tournament and declared Tulsa National's previous game a forfeit. The Southwest Region Tournament will conclude with a one-game championship between Texas West (Helotes Little League) and Louisiana (Eastbank Little League) at 4:30 p.m. on July 21 in Waco, Texas.
The league requires all participating athletes to either reside within the league's boundaries through bona fide habitation or attend a school located within those boundaries. According to the statement, the tournament committee works closely with local leagues to verify eligibility documentation and to review any challenges or protests brought to their attention throughout the tournament.
Both finalist teams, in addition to Texas Easy Industrial, filed complaints against Tulsa National regarding eligibility rules.
#tournament #southwest
The Little League International Tournament Committee determined that the adult volunteers and parents did not provide "sufficient documentation to verify that all players were eligible to participate in the International Tournament based on either their school enrollment or bona fide habitation within the league's official boundaries," a statement released on Tuesday, July 21, said.
As a result, the committee removed the team from the Southwest Region Tournament and declared Tulsa National's previous game a forfeit. The Southwest Region Tournament will conclude with a one-game championship between Texas West (Helotes Little League) and Louisiana (Eastbank Little League) at 4:30 p.m. on July 21 in Waco, Texas.
The league requires all participating athletes to either reside within the league's boundaries through bona fide habitation or attend a school located within those boundaries. According to the statement, the tournament committee works closely with local leagues to verify eligibility documentation and to review any challenges or protests brought to their attention throughout the tournament.
Both finalist teams, in addition to Texas Easy Industrial, filed complaints against Tulsa National regarding eligibility rules.
#tournament #southwest
18 days ago
The 2026 MLB season has reached the All-Star Game. This season has shown many players and teams having sensational seasons. Following the All-Star Game, the second half of the season will be in full swing. Here are the top 10 outfielders at the midway point of the season.
MORE: MLB Rankings: Top 10 catchers at the All-Star break
Still on the injured list, Judge is easily a top 10 outfielder. He was posting big numbers prior to injury. A strong return to the field can have him get back into the AL MVP race.
May 3, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Brandon Marsh (16) stands in the dugout against the Miami Marlins during the fourth at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-Imagn Images
The Phillies are battling for the division, and Marsh is having a career year. He has been one of the most consistent hitters in Philadelphia's lineup. He's earned every accolade he will receive this season.
MORE: MLB Rankings: Top 10 catchers at the All-Star break
Still on the injured list, Judge is easily a top 10 outfielder. He was posting big numbers prior to injury. A strong return to the field can have him get back into the AL MVP race.
May 3, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Brandon Marsh (16) stands in the dugout against the Miami Marlins during the fourth at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-Imagn Images
The Phillies are battling for the division, and Marsh is having a career year. He has been one of the most consistent hitters in Philadelphia's lineup. He's earned every accolade he will receive this season.
19 days ago
It is 28 years since Argentina ended my World Cup dream at France '98 - and it still hurts now.
I can still picture their players dancing and celebrating next to us as both teams waited to get on their buses after our epic last-16 tie. We had come so close to beating them, but we fell on the wrong side of a penalty shootout, and we were going home.
I was captain and it was tough to take, not just personally but because we had an outstanding team and I felt we had an opportunity at that tournament to make a real statement on the world stage.
I feel the same way about this England side now as they prepare for Wednesday's semi-final in Atlanta (20:00 BST), with a chance to change their lives forever.
They are two wins away from immortality, and the fact it is Argentina we face again first just adds more spice to an already incredible occasion.
I can still picture their players dancing and celebrating next to us as both teams waited to get on their buses after our epic last-16 tie. We had come so close to beating them, but we fell on the wrong side of a penalty shootout, and we were going home.
I was captain and it was tough to take, not just personally but because we had an outstanding team and I felt we had an opportunity at that tournament to make a real statement on the world stage.
I feel the same way about this England side now as they prepare for Wednesday's semi-final in Atlanta (20:00 BST), with a chance to change their lives forever.
They are two wins away from immortality, and the fact it is Argentina we face again first just adds more spice to an already incredible occasion.
19 days ago
The USA Gymnastics team announced on Tuesday that gymnast Suni Lee would be returning to the squad for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
Lee, 23, competed in both the 2020 Tokyo Games and the 2024 Paris Games. In Tokyo, she took a gold medal in the all-around, a silver medal in the team, and a bronze medal in the uneven bars.
In Paris, Lee earned the gold medal in the team event and then bronze medals in both the all-around and uneven bars.
The Olympic gymnast almost didn’t compete at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in 2023. Even after competing in the games and medaling three times, there was speculation that that was her last competition and she would be retiring.
Lee is not only focused on her “comeback” leading up to the 2028 Olympics, but she is also set to participate in a documentary about her journey.
Lee, 23, competed in both the 2020 Tokyo Games and the 2024 Paris Games. In Tokyo, she took a gold medal in the all-around, a silver medal in the team, and a bronze medal in the uneven bars.
In Paris, Lee earned the gold medal in the team event and then bronze medals in both the all-around and uneven bars.
The Olympic gymnast almost didn’t compete at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in 2023. Even after competing in the games and medaling three times, there was speculation that that was her last competition and she would be retiring.
Lee is not only focused on her “comeback” leading up to the 2028 Olympics, but she is also set to participate in a documentary about her journey.
20 days ago
The current first-team squad at La Liga giants Real Madrid have secured for themselves a place in the history books of international football.
This comes owing to their exploits at this summer’s World Cup.
Members of José Mourinho’s Real Madrid ranks have of course emerged as some of the star performers in North America over recent weeks.
Kylian Mbappé, for one, has run riot en route to France booking their spot in the competition’s semi-finals. Jude Bellingham, meanwhile, is fresh off another match-winning performance to ensure England of the same.
Prior to Brazil being sent packing from the Last-16, Vinícius Jr. had also enjoyed a thoroughly productive World Cup under the watch of Carlo Ancelotti.
This comes owing to their exploits at this summer’s World Cup.
Members of José Mourinho’s Real Madrid ranks have of course emerged as some of the star performers in North America over recent weeks.
Kylian Mbappé, for one, has run riot en route to France booking their spot in the competition’s semi-finals. Jude Bellingham, meanwhile, is fresh off another match-winning performance to ensure England of the same.
Prior to Brazil being sent packing from the Last-16, Vinícius Jr. had also enjoyed a thoroughly productive World Cup under the watch of Carlo Ancelotti.
21 days ago
The Arizona Cardinals report to training camp on July 22 and begin the process of preparing for the regular season, forming the roster and determining starting jobs and roles on the team.
Leading up to the start of camp, we will take a look at every player on the offseason roster, their background, their contract, their play in 2025, questions they face and their roster outlook.
Here is Ka'ena De Cambra.
De Cambria is a rookie. He went undrafted out of Arizona and signed with the Cardinals.
He played four seasons for Hawaii before transferring to Arizona in 2025. For Arizona, he started all 13 games at center. In four seasons at Hawaii, he started all over the offensive line — 12 at left tackle, nine at right guard and two at right tackle. He was All-Mountain West honorable mention in 2024.
Leading up to the start of camp, we will take a look at every player on the offseason roster, their background, their contract, their play in 2025, questions they face and their roster outlook.
Here is Ka'ena De Cambra.
De Cambria is a rookie. He went undrafted out of Arizona and signed with the Cardinals.
He played four seasons for Hawaii before transferring to Arizona in 2025. For Arizona, he started all 13 games at center. In four seasons at Hawaii, he started all over the offensive line — 12 at left tackle, nine at right guard and two at right tackle. He was All-Mountain West honorable mention in 2024.
21 days ago
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JULY 11: Jude Bellingham #10 of England celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Norway and England at Miami Stadium on July 11, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
The world will get a World Cup final four that it deserves.
The four semifinalists are positioned one, two, three, and four, in the latest FIFA ranking:
1. France (6-0-0)
2. Argentina (6-0-0)
The world will get a World Cup final four that it deserves.
The four semifinalists are positioned one, two, three, and four, in the latest FIFA ranking:
1. France (6-0-0)
2. Argentina (6-0-0)
22 days ago
Bayern Munich defender Jonathan Tah has only worked under Vincent Kompany for a season, but it is already clear that the Germany international has plenty of admiration for his head coach. Tah explained why Kompany’s reputation as both a former player and a manager made such a strong impression on him.
“He had a lot of things [as a player], but I think the most impressive of all was his leadership. When you watch how (former team-mates) speak about him, you can definitely understand why he’s a great coach as well. The way he handles the team, the players, he really knows how to talk to the players. He just has this feeling for a dressing room, what the guys need. Then there’s the tactical side and the defensive side. I can learn a lot. He sees and adjusts so many details that you just improve,” Tah told ESPN (as captured by iMiaSanMia).
Tah’s comments reinforce one of the themes that has followed Kompany throughout his coaching career. While his tactical ideas have received plenty of attention, players consistently point to his communication skills and ability to connect with a squad as one of his greatest strengths. That combination can be invaluable at a club like Bayern Munich, where managing expectations and personalities is every bit as important as organizing the team on the pitch.
For Tah, the partnership could prove especially beneficial. As an experienced central defender, he has an established résumé, but working under one of the Premier League’s greatest defenders presents an opportunity to refine his game even further. Kompany’s emphasis on positioning, organization, and defensive details aligns well with Tah’s strengths, and could help elevate his performances to another level in the upcoming season.
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“He had a lot of things [as a player], but I think the most impressive of all was his leadership. When you watch how (former team-mates) speak about him, you can definitely understand why he’s a great coach as well. The way he handles the team, the players, he really knows how to talk to the players. He just has this feeling for a dressing room, what the guys need. Then there’s the tactical side and the defensive side. I can learn a lot. He sees and adjusts so many details that you just improve,” Tah told ESPN (as captured by iMiaSanMia).
Tah’s comments reinforce one of the themes that has followed Kompany throughout his coaching career. While his tactical ideas have received plenty of attention, players consistently point to his communication skills and ability to connect with a squad as one of his greatest strengths. That combination can be invaluable at a club like Bayern Munich, where managing expectations and personalities is every bit as important as organizing the team on the pitch.
For Tah, the partnership could prove especially beneficial. As an experienced central defender, he has an established résumé, but working under one of the Premier League’s greatest defenders presents an opportunity to refine his game even further. Kompany’s emphasis on positioning, organization, and defensive details aligns well with Tah’s strengths, and could help elevate his performances to another level in the upcoming season.
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22 days ago
Norway star Erling Haaland's father Alf-Inge Haaland hit out at the referees after England defeated Norway 2-1 in a World Cup quarterfinal on Saturday, July 11.
Norway took the lead in the 36th minute thanks to a goal from Andreas Schjelderup, but England equalized just before halftime through Jude Bellingham.
Bellingham's goal proved controversial after a goal kick appeared to hit a cable for a camera high above the field, which could have given just enough of a deflection to get the ball in England's possession.
Though Norway protested, FIFA later claimed that the "sensor in the Connected Ball showed no peak in the 'heartbeat of the ball' when in the air, and therefore no evidence that the ball touched the overhead wire and changed the movement of the ball."
Norway took the lead in the 36th minute thanks to a goal from Andreas Schjelderup, but England equalized just before halftime through Jude Bellingham.
Bellingham's goal proved controversial after a goal kick appeared to hit a cable for a camera high above the field, which could have given just enough of a deflection to get the ball in England's possession.
Though Norway protested, FIFA later claimed that the "sensor in the Connected Ball showed no peak in the 'heartbeat of the ball' when in the air, and therefore no evidence that the ball touched the overhead wire and changed the movement of the ball."
22 days ago
Marc Guehi has won his fitness race and is expected to start England's World Cup quarter-final against Norway alongside a recalled John Stones in central defence.
Manchester City defender Guehi suffered a minor hamstring strain in the win over Mexico and has missed training sessions this week.
But he is set to be cleared to continue in the heart of England's defence.
He is expected to be playing alongside Stones in defence, who is set to be recalled into the starting XI for the first time since the opening game against Croatia.
Ezri Konsa is set to be moved from centre-back to right-back.
Manchester City defender Guehi suffered a minor hamstring strain in the win over Mexico and has missed training sessions this week.
But he is set to be cleared to continue in the heart of England's defence.
He is expected to be playing alongside Stones in defence, who is set to be recalled into the starting XI for the first time since the opening game against Croatia.
Ezri Konsa is set to be moved from centre-back to right-back.
22 days ago
Jarrad Branthwaite's last appearance, against Liverpool at Hill ******* inson Stadium on 19 April 2026
(Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Jarrad Branthwaite showed signs of making good progress in recovery from his latest hamstring injury nightmare when he participated in various training drills and physical tests with other players returning to Finch Farm for the first day of pre-season training yesterday.
There is no doubt the club view Branthwaite as the bedrock of our future, which made last season's heartbreak all the more difficult to stomach. A devastating hamstring injury on the eve of the campaign kept him out until late January.
When he finally returned, he transformed the side, spearheading a brilliant run of form that dragged Everton into the European conversation. Yet, in typical Everton fashion, his cruel injury against Liverpool in the first derby at Hill ******* inson Stadium left the team bereft of its quiet and unassuming fulcrum, precipitating a horrendous collapse in form over the final seven matches of the season, leaving us to wonder what might have been as a golden opportunity slipped through our fingers.
(Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Jarrad Branthwaite showed signs of making good progress in recovery from his latest hamstring injury nightmare when he participated in various training drills and physical tests with other players returning to Finch Farm for the first day of pre-season training yesterday.
There is no doubt the club view Branthwaite as the bedrock of our future, which made last season's heartbreak all the more difficult to stomach. A devastating hamstring injury on the eve of the campaign kept him out until late January.
When he finally returned, he transformed the side, spearheading a brilliant run of form that dragged Everton into the European conversation. Yet, in typical Everton fashion, his cruel injury against Liverpool in the first derby at Hill ******* inson Stadium left the team bereft of its quiet and unassuming fulcrum, precipitating a horrendous collapse in form over the final seven matches of the season, leaving us to wonder what might have been as a golden opportunity slipped through our fingers.
23 days ago
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Wyatt Langford and Jake Burger homered in a four-run eighth inning as the Texas Rangers beat the Houston Astros 7-3 on Friday night.
Langford's leadoff homer and Burger's three-run shot came off Bryan King (2-2) after the Astros had rallied from an early 3-0 deficit to tie the score in the seventh inning. Houston's rally included Yordan Alvarez's 200th career home run, his 30th of the season.
Langford hit a walk-off homer on Thursday night in a 7-6 win over the Los Angeles Angels hours after being reinstated from the injured list.
Cole Winn (5-2) retired all four batters he faced in the seventh and eighth innings for his second win in two nights.
The Rangers (48-46) lead the AL West by 1½ games over Seattle (47-48) and three games over the Astros (46-50). Houston has lost three of its last four games.
Langford's leadoff homer and Burger's three-run shot came off Bryan King (2-2) after the Astros had rallied from an early 3-0 deficit to tie the score in the seventh inning. Houston's rally included Yordan Alvarez's 200th career home run, his 30th of the season.
Langford hit a walk-off homer on Thursday night in a 7-6 win over the Los Angeles Angels hours after being reinstated from the injured list.
Cole Winn (5-2) retired all four batters he faced in the seventh and eighth innings for his second win in two nights.
The Rangers (48-46) lead the AL West by 1½ games over Seattle (47-48) and three games over the Astros (46-50). Houston has lost three of its last four games.
