2 hours ago
TAMPA, Fla. - Quarterback Kenny Minchey of the Kentucky Wildcats speaks at SEC Football Media Day at Tampa Marriott Water Street on July 20, 2026 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Parker S. Freedman/Getty Images)
George Haffner averaged a robust 18.3 yards per completion quarterbacking Joe Kuharich's Notre Dame Fighting Irish in 1960. He also completed less than 30 percent of his passes and 11 of his 108 attempts were picked off. Frank Budka – 14 interceptions in 95 attempts -- and Daryle Lamonica took over in 1961 while Haffner left South Bend only to emerge at McNeese State in 1964.
Several other quarterbacks have moved on from Notre Dame, most recently Kenny Minchey, who will be the centerpiece of a new-look Kentucky offense under first-year coach Will Stein and new offensive coordinator Joe Sloan.
"Going to Notre Dame out of high school, it was just a decision that was best for me and my family and my situation," Minchey said at SEC media days in Tampa. "Then obviously coming to Kentucky, coming to the SEC, I just think it was a great opportunity."
The Tennessee native's resume is sparse (29 pass attempts) having spent the past three seasons behind starters C.J. Carr, Riley Leonard, Sam Hartman and ***** orted others on the depth chart. including Steve Angeli. In Lexington, Minchey, who has two years of eligibility, has the opportunity to show what he can do under a 36-year-old head coach who was the offensive coordinator at Oregon for three seasons working with Dante Moore, Dillon Gabriel and Bo Nix.
#tampa #dame #kenny #Media
George Haffner averaged a robust 18.3 yards per completion quarterbacking Joe Kuharich's Notre Dame Fighting Irish in 1960. He also completed less than 30 percent of his passes and 11 of his 108 attempts were picked off. Frank Budka – 14 interceptions in 95 attempts -- and Daryle Lamonica took over in 1961 while Haffner left South Bend only to emerge at McNeese State in 1964.
Several other quarterbacks have moved on from Notre Dame, most recently Kenny Minchey, who will be the centerpiece of a new-look Kentucky offense under first-year coach Will Stein and new offensive coordinator Joe Sloan.
"Going to Notre Dame out of high school, it was just a decision that was best for me and my family and my situation," Minchey said at SEC media days in Tampa. "Then obviously coming to Kentucky, coming to the SEC, I just think it was a great opportunity."
The Tennessee native's resume is sparse (29 pass attempts) having spent the past three seasons behind starters C.J. Carr, Riley Leonard, Sam Hartman and ***** orted others on the depth chart. including Steve Angeli. In Lexington, Minchey, who has two years of eligibility, has the opportunity to show what he can do under a 36-year-old head coach who was the offensive coordinator at Oregon for three seasons working with Dante Moore, Dillon Gabriel and Bo Nix.
#tampa #dame #kenny #Media
12 hours ago
Though expected to be ranked, not many are thinking much about Michigan football at this time of the year. Eerily similar to 2021, when a Jim Harbaugh-led team had zero offseason buzz before shocking the college football world, all is quiet on the Western front as it pertains to the maize and blue.
But one ESPN personality thinks that the Wolverines could end up shocking the world.
Dan Wetzel is local to Michigan, and as the ESPN College Football podcast panel did a brief preview of the Big Ten in 2026, and though Michigan football wasn't spoken of much, Wetzel asked: why not the team in Ann Arbor?
"I think that the program that could totally surprise, because I don't think anyone's much of them, is Michigan," Wetzel said. "I don't think there's a lot of discussion, but how are they with a coach, like how good can Kyle Whittingham get them? There's a lot of talent at Michigan; it's a very high-priced roster still. Can Kyle Whittingham step right in and kind of revive that program quickly?"
If Jason Beck gets his offense going and Jay Hill manages to do a good job with the defense, it wouldn't surprise if the Wolverines are better than anticipated. However, the schedule is a bear, so there will need to be some surprise wins there if Michigan is going to find its way to a better postseason berth than the previous two years.
#wolverines
But one ESPN personality thinks that the Wolverines could end up shocking the world.
Dan Wetzel is local to Michigan, and as the ESPN College Football podcast panel did a brief preview of the Big Ten in 2026, and though Michigan football wasn't spoken of much, Wetzel asked: why not the team in Ann Arbor?
"I think that the program that could totally surprise, because I don't think anyone's much of them, is Michigan," Wetzel said. "I don't think there's a lot of discussion, but how are they with a coach, like how good can Kyle Whittingham get them? There's a lot of talent at Michigan; it's a very high-priced roster still. Can Kyle Whittingham step right in and kind of revive that program quickly?"
If Jason Beck gets his offense going and Jay Hill manages to do a good job with the defense, it wouldn't surprise if the Wolverines are better than anticipated. However, the schedule is a bear, so there will need to be some surprise wins there if Michigan is going to find its way to a better postseason berth than the previous two years.
#wolverines
20 hours ago
Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has been confirmed as the new head coach of the France national team.
Didier Deschamps, France's longest-serving manager, ended his 14-year stint in charge after the nation's semi-final exit to Spain at the 2026 World Cup.
Zidane, a World Cup winner with France in 1998, has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid for a second time as head coach in 2021.
The 54-year-old, widely considered to be France's greatest player, will sign a contract that will see him lead the nation through the 2030 World Cup qualifiers.
On being appointed, he said it was "a great source of pride" to lead the French national side following their fourth-place finish at the World Cup.
#head
Didier Deschamps, France's longest-serving manager, ended his 14-year stint in charge after the nation's semi-final exit to Spain at the 2026 World Cup.
Zidane, a World Cup winner with France in 1998, has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid for a second time as head coach in 2021.
The 54-year-old, widely considered to be France's greatest player, will sign a contract that will see him lead the nation through the 2030 World Cup qualifiers.
On being appointed, he said it was "a great source of pride" to lead the French national side following their fourth-place finish at the World Cup.
#head
4 days ago
After narrowly missing out on Birmingham four years ago, Wales' men and women are making Commonwealth Games debuts in the wheelchair 3x3 basketball in Glasgow.
The teams received wildcards after finishing second in their respective qualifying finals.
In a tight-knit Wales squad, the men's and women's team are united in more than one way.
Libi Phillips and Will Bishop met playing the sport at under-14s level and have been together for six years.
Their relationship has blossomed along with their basketball ability.
#phillips
The teams received wildcards after finishing second in their respective qualifying finals.
In a tight-knit Wales squad, the men's and women's team are united in more than one way.
Libi Phillips and Will Bishop met playing the sport at under-14s level and have been together for six years.
Their relationship has blossomed along with their basketball ability.
#phillips
4 days ago
The Miami Dolphins summoned their rookies back to their facilities on Tuesday to prepare for training camp at their Baptist Health Training Complex, and their veterans will follow next Tuesday, July 28.
While many position groups have plenty of players returning from 2025, Miami's specialists are almost all completely new, as they let a kicker, punter and long snapper leave in free agency.
Before training camp starts, let's take a look at the four Dolphins that currently make up the specialist room.
Patterson played at Memphis from 2017-20 before going undrafted in 2021. Since then, he's had stops with eight different teams, making 87.4% of his field goals (90-of-103) and 96.6% of his extra points (143-of-148).
As the lone holdover in the room, Patterson may have a small leg up in the competition. In 17 games filling in for Jason Sanders in 2025, he made 93.1% of his field goals (27-of-29) and 97.1% of his extra points (34-of-35).
#tuesday #field
While many position groups have plenty of players returning from 2025, Miami's specialists are almost all completely new, as they let a kicker, punter and long snapper leave in free agency.
Before training camp starts, let's take a look at the four Dolphins that currently make up the specialist room.
Patterson played at Memphis from 2017-20 before going undrafted in 2021. Since then, he's had stops with eight different teams, making 87.4% of his field goals (90-of-103) and 96.6% of his extra points (143-of-148).
As the lone holdover in the room, Patterson may have a small leg up in the competition. In 17 games filling in for Jason Sanders in 2025, he made 93.1% of his field goals (27-of-29) and 97.1% of his extra points (34-of-35).
#tuesday #field
5 days ago
Real Madrid have been in the market for a new midfielder for much of the summer transfer window, but until now, their efforts have been in vain. They were forced to end their interest in Enzo Fernandez after they were priced out of a move by Chelsea, although that has seen them turn their attention back to Rodri.
It’s been a summer to remember so far for Rodri, who captained Spain to glory at the 2026 World Cup. He was awarded the Golden Ball for his individual efforts, and his performances have reportedly brought Real Madrid back to the table.
Rodri is a player that Real Madrid have appreciated for some time, but any chance of him being pursued looked dead in the water earlier this summer. This no longer appears to be the case, and the fact that he could be available for a reduced price – due to his contract expiring in 2027 – makes him an even more attractive option for the Bernabeu club.
However, Real Madrid’s interest is not particularly advanced at this stage. According to Diario AS, sources from within Manchester City have denied any contact over a Rodri deal, with the same people claiming that the speculation has only come about because of the 30-year-old’s excellent performances at the World Cup.
It would make a lot of sense for Real Madrid to go for Rodri this summer. He will be available on a cut-price deal if he continues to resist a new Man City contract, and as his performances at the World Cup showed, he is back to being one of the best midfielders in the world.
#madrid #back #city #efforts
It’s been a summer to remember so far for Rodri, who captained Spain to glory at the 2026 World Cup. He was awarded the Golden Ball for his individual efforts, and his performances have reportedly brought Real Madrid back to the table.
Rodri is a player that Real Madrid have appreciated for some time, but any chance of him being pursued looked dead in the water earlier this summer. This no longer appears to be the case, and the fact that he could be available for a reduced price – due to his contract expiring in 2027 – makes him an even more attractive option for the Bernabeu club.
However, Real Madrid’s interest is not particularly advanced at this stage. According to Diario AS, sources from within Manchester City have denied any contact over a Rodri deal, with the same people claiming that the speculation has only come about because of the 30-year-old’s excellent performances at the World Cup.
It would make a lot of sense for Real Madrid to go for Rodri this summer. He will be available on a cut-price deal if he continues to resist a new Man City contract, and as his performances at the World Cup showed, he is back to being one of the best midfielders in the world.
#madrid #back #city #efforts
5 days ago
Although the Los Angeles Lakers' roster looks largely set, their pursuit of 6-foot-7 forward Jonathan ******* inga hasn't ended.
They have depth at the wing and forward spots after adding Ziaire Williams and Matisse Thybulle in recent days, but they lack a legitimate two-way starting forward. ******* inga could fill that void -- if he changes his ways and embraces such a well-rounded role.
ESPN reporter Anthony Slater went on "NBA Today" on Thursday and outlined where the Lakers' pursuit of ******* inga stands.
"I can tell you that they keep calling Jonathan ******* inga. And again, obviously they have not made a lucrative enough offer for ******* inga to jump. But part of their pitch has been, 'Hey, you can come start here potentially.'
"And that says two things to me. Number one, it says the Lakers still don't want to be done making moves, and they believe they're a little weak on the wing position. Which, I think [Matisse] Thybulle will help. I think Ziaire Williams will help, but they could use some more juice on the wing, and maybe they get ******* inga done. Maybe they don't. I think the LeBron domino affects ******* inga and what he may or may not be able to get. But, again, all I can tell you is Rob Pelinka keeps calling about Jonathan ******* inga"
#kuminga #ziaire
They have depth at the wing and forward spots after adding Ziaire Williams and Matisse Thybulle in recent days, but they lack a legitimate two-way starting forward. ******* inga could fill that void -- if he changes his ways and embraces such a well-rounded role.
ESPN reporter Anthony Slater went on "NBA Today" on Thursday and outlined where the Lakers' pursuit of ******* inga stands.
"I can tell you that they keep calling Jonathan ******* inga. And again, obviously they have not made a lucrative enough offer for ******* inga to jump. But part of their pitch has been, 'Hey, you can come start here potentially.'
"And that says two things to me. Number one, it says the Lakers still don't want to be done making moves, and they believe they're a little weak on the wing position. Which, I think [Matisse] Thybulle will help. I think Ziaire Williams will help, but they could use some more juice on the wing, and maybe they get ******* inga done. Maybe they don't. I think the LeBron domino affects ******* inga and what he may or may not be able to get. But, again, all I can tell you is Rob Pelinka keeps calling about Jonathan ******* inga"
#kuminga #ziaire
5 days ago
The argument over the greatest men's college basketball player ever never really ends. It just shifts to a new barstool, and any credible list has to run through the same core group of legends.
This one sticks to what they did on campus: awards, numbers, dominance in their own era and how much they defined the sport while they were actually in school. Pro careers do not matter here.
MORE: ESPN's ****** Vitale blasts NCAA for college basketball tournament expansion
We start at 25 and work our way to the top spot, where a 7-foot-2 skyhook still casts a pretty big shadow.
Patrick Ewing was the anchor of the Georgetown program that came to define 1980s college hoops. He played in three national ****** le games, won one in 1984 and was the defensive terror in the paint opponents game-planned around every March. He was a three-time first-team All-American, a two-time Big East Player of the Year and the face of coach John Thompson's intimidating Hoyas.
#player
This one sticks to what they did on campus: awards, numbers, dominance in their own era and how much they defined the sport while they were actually in school. Pro careers do not matter here.
MORE: ESPN's ****** Vitale blasts NCAA for college basketball tournament expansion
We start at 25 and work our way to the top spot, where a 7-foot-2 skyhook still casts a pretty big shadow.
Patrick Ewing was the anchor of the Georgetown program that came to define 1980s college hoops. He played in three national ****** le games, won one in 1984 and was the defensive terror in the paint opponents game-planned around every March. He was a three-time first-team All-American, a two-time Big East Player of the Year and the face of coach John Thompson's intimidating Hoyas.
#player
7 days ago
Olympique de Marseille are reportedly considering signing 2018 World Cup winner Djibril Sidibé (33), according to RMC Sport.
A free agent since leaving Toulouse FC, the French full-back is reportedly seen internally as a real opportunity in the transfer market. With considerable top-flight experience under his belt, the player who came through the ranks at ESTAC Troyes is coming off the back of two full seasons in which he made a total of 63 appearances (three goals, seven ****** ists) for the Violets.
This profile has caught the eye of Marseille, where he would immediately be seen as a key figure in the dressing room, whilst several Italian clubs have recently informed the player's entourage of their desire to lure him across the Pyrenees.
It now remains to be seen which path Sidibé will choose, as he could return to European competition in the south of France, with Marseille having secured their place in the Europa League group stage at the end of the 2025-26 season.
GFFN | Léo Aschi
#sidib #reportedly #olympique #djibril
A free agent since leaving Toulouse FC, the French full-back is reportedly seen internally as a real opportunity in the transfer market. With considerable top-flight experience under his belt, the player who came through the ranks at ESTAC Troyes is coming off the back of two full seasons in which he made a total of 63 appearances (three goals, seven ****** ists) for the Violets.
This profile has caught the eye of Marseille, where he would immediately be seen as a key figure in the dressing room, whilst several Italian clubs have recently informed the player's entourage of their desire to lure him across the Pyrenees.
It now remains to be seen which path Sidibé will choose, as he could return to European competition in the south of France, with Marseille having secured their place in the Europa League group stage at the end of the 2025-26 season.
GFFN | Léo Aschi
#sidib #reportedly #olympique #djibril
8 days ago
After nine years, the University of Louisiana-Lafayette's Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics and athletic director Bryan Maggard is leaving the university.
Maggard served as the athletic director since 2017 and is expected to join the staff at the University of Missouri. His anticipated move to Missouri marks a return to a program where he spent 21 years as the Tigers' executive ***** ociate athletic director.
"Ragin' Cajuns Athletics, the University, and Lafayette, Louisiana will forever hold a special place in Kerry and my hearts," Maggard said in a press release. "We always knew it would take something extremely special for us to leave this place we called home for nearly a decade. With the birth of our granddaughter and a tremendous opportunity provided by Mizzou, we simply could not pass up the chance to return close to family."
Throughout his tenure in Lafayette, Ragin' Cajuns athletics has seen success throughout major changes in collegiate athletics. From handling the growing transfer portal to the introduction of NIL's, UL has carved out a ***** e for itself as a mid-major powerhouse across Division I sports.
Under Maggard, the Cajuns won Sun Belt Conference championships in baseball, football and softball. In the 2021-22 school year, UL was the only university in Louisiana to win all three plus a bowl game. UL football has been to eight consecutive bowl games during Maggard's tenture.
#university #maggard #lafayette
Maggard served as the athletic director since 2017 and is expected to join the staff at the University of Missouri. His anticipated move to Missouri marks a return to a program where he spent 21 years as the Tigers' executive ***** ociate athletic director.
"Ragin' Cajuns Athletics, the University, and Lafayette, Louisiana will forever hold a special place in Kerry and my hearts," Maggard said in a press release. "We always knew it would take something extremely special for us to leave this place we called home for nearly a decade. With the birth of our granddaughter and a tremendous opportunity provided by Mizzou, we simply could not pass up the chance to return close to family."
Throughout his tenure in Lafayette, Ragin' Cajuns athletics has seen success throughout major changes in collegiate athletics. From handling the growing transfer portal to the introduction of NIL's, UL has carved out a ***** e for itself as a mid-major powerhouse across Division I sports.
Under Maggard, the Cajuns won Sun Belt Conference championships in baseball, football and softball. In the 2021-22 school year, UL was the only university in Louisiana to win all three plus a bowl game. UL football has been to eight consecutive bowl games during Maggard's tenture.
#university #maggard #lafayette
14 days ago
Andoni Iraola has delivered the confirmation we were hoping for. This pre-season will be fun.
Andoni Iraola gave his first press conference as Liverpool's head coach on Monday morning. The Spaniard is about to properly oversee his team on a pre-season tour - and we can't wait to see what's in store.
Especially after his gave a few confirmations in his press conference. Above all, he promised the kind of style of player we've all been craving, suggesting we'll see a return to the high-octane, vertical football played under Jurgen Klopp.
But there was another key confirmation in there: that Harvey Elliott has his big chance. Elliott endured a nightmare season last time out, joining Aston Villa on loan.
Villa quickly decided that they didn't want to pay the £30m option to make the deal permanent. However, that option triggered automatically if Elliott played 10 Premier League matches - so Unai Emery made sure he didn't.
Andoni Iraola gave his first press conference as Liverpool's head coach on Monday morning. The Spaniard is about to properly oversee his team on a pre-season tour - and we can't wait to see what's in store.
Especially after his gave a few confirmations in his press conference. Above all, he promised the kind of style of player we've all been craving, suggesting we'll see a return to the high-octane, vertical football played under Jurgen Klopp.
But there was another key confirmation in there: that Harvey Elliott has his big chance. Elliott endured a nightmare season last time out, joining Aston Villa on loan.
Villa quickly decided that they didn't want to pay the £30m option to make the deal permanent. However, that option triggered automatically if Elliott played 10 Premier League matches - so Unai Emery made sure he didn't.
14 days ago
Jordan Henderson and Jarell Quansah are set to be the only players unavailable for England in their World Cup semi-final against Argentina.
Henderson is still recovering from surgery on the broken arm he suffered while celebrating the win over Mexico in the last 16, while defender Quansah is suspended following his red card in the same game.
It leaves head coach Thomas Tuchel with options as he finalises his starting XI.
The England boss is yet to field the same starting back four in consecutive games at the World Cup but has considered keeping the same defence that began the quarter-final against Norway.
Ezri Konsa, John Stones, Marc Guehi and Nico O'Reilly all started, and it is understood that Tuchel was impressed with how the quartet operated in the 2-1 win.
Henderson is still recovering from surgery on the broken arm he suffered while celebrating the win over Mexico in the last 16, while defender Quansah is suspended following his red card in the same game.
It leaves head coach Thomas Tuchel with options as he finalises his starting XI.
The England boss is yet to field the same starting back four in consecutive games at the World Cup but has considered keeping the same defence that began the quarter-final against Norway.
Ezri Konsa, John Stones, Marc Guehi and Nico O'Reilly all started, and it is understood that Tuchel was impressed with how the quartet operated in the 2-1 win.
15 days ago
Former ESPN columnist and renowned author Chuck Klosterman gave a bold prediction for Sophie Cunningham. Klosterman thinks Cunningham would be running for vice president in 24 years. While the writer admitted being clueless about the Fever star’s political preferences, he felt she had the personality to enter the ***** e.
“Sophie Cunningham … in 2050 is going to be the vice president of the United States,” Klosterman said on The Bill Simmons Podcast. “I don’t know what party she’ll be in, I don’t know anything about her political views, but she will be the vice presidential candidate, at least the candidate.”
Klosterman cited his viral take from last year on Simmons’ podcast when he said that Cooper Flagg’s career would compare to Detlef Schrempf’s. He admitted he was wrong, but that’s pushed him to make even bolder predictions, which led to his prediction for Cunningham.
Klosterman added:
“I don’t know what it is about the fact that she [Sophie] wears those sleeves on the court. Something about the way she triggers the inbound plays at the end of games makes me think she will be someone’s ideal vice president. She has a likeable personality.”
“Sophie Cunningham … in 2050 is going to be the vice president of the United States,” Klosterman said on The Bill Simmons Podcast. “I don’t know what party she’ll be in, I don’t know anything about her political views, but she will be the vice presidential candidate, at least the candidate.”
Klosterman cited his viral take from last year on Simmons’ podcast when he said that Cooper Flagg’s career would compare to Detlef Schrempf’s. He admitted he was wrong, but that’s pushed him to make even bolder predictions, which led to his prediction for Cunningham.
Klosterman added:
“I don’t know what it is about the fact that she [Sophie] wears those sleeves on the court. Something about the way she triggers the inbound plays at the end of games makes me think she will be someone’s ideal vice president. She has a likeable personality.”
15 days ago
Giants' Luis Arraez reveals trade preference originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Amid a nightmare season for the San Francisco Giants, Luis Arraez has been awesome.
That earned him a trip to the All-Star Game in Philadelphia, but it has also made him a prime part of trade rumors.
Arraez is on just a one-year contract, making it logical for a team out of the playoff hunt to trade him to a contender.
He's also playing so well, which raises the odds of him getting moved even higher. The Giants could get a legitimate future ***** et in return for Arraez.
Amid a nightmare season for the San Francisco Giants, Luis Arraez has been awesome.
That earned him a trip to the All-Star Game in Philadelphia, but it has also made him a prime part of trade rumors.
Arraez is on just a one-year contract, making it logical for a team out of the playoff hunt to trade him to a contender.
He's also playing so well, which raises the odds of him getting moved even higher. The Giants could get a legitimate future ***** et in return for Arraez.
16 days ago
The All-Star break is here and all eyes are on Philadelphia as they host the festivities. So far, there has been a lot of excitement around the city with the Futures Game happening, the Draft taking place and all the happenings at All Star Village. It’s been awesome.
On to the links.
Phillies news:
Gage Wood starting the Futures Game for the National League side in Philadelphia gave the team a glimpse of the future ($).
Cristopher Sanchez was named the starter for the National League on Tuesday night, somewhat expectedly.
On to the links.
Phillies news:
Gage Wood starting the Futures Game for the National League side in Philadelphia gave the team a glimpse of the future ($).
Cristopher Sanchez was named the starter for the National League on Tuesday night, somewhat expectedly.
16 days ago
It might seem like the NBA is a cold place where decade-long relationships can be cast aside at the first moment it becomes advantageous to do so. But in the case of the Boston Celtics trading star forward Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla made it clear that he will not only miss Brown's tenure with the team, he credited it with making him a better version of himself in a recent interview with New York Times senior reporter Jay King.
"There needs to be a grieving process for losing not just a player in Jaylen, but a person in Jaylen," said the Celtics coach. "There needs to be a grieving process that this guy, what he has done on the court and what he's done in the community and what he's done for the city of Boston, there should be a grieving process"
"But the … gray area is throughout that loss, you're also gaining," suggested Mazzulla, presumably referencing the trade's return and the optionality it was made to create. "We're getting three guys back. One guy was a champion. So, we can leverage the experience that he had in the current moment of like, 'Hey, what worked for you guys? How can we learn from little stuff that you did?'"
Even with the returning elements of the Brown trade, Mazzulla insisted his time with Brown has made him a better coach. "I know that for a fact," he said. "Something like that is going to be difficult. But I think if you could just get through it and act as if nothing happened, then that's when I think that you're not in it for the right reasons."
"The biggest thing was just his competitiveness," Mazzulla shared later. "He wasn't afraid to push you. That was for teammates. That was for me. That was for people. He wasn't afraid to hold you accountable to a higher standard. And when you have the opportunity to coach guys like that, it just makes you better."
"There needs to be a grieving process for losing not just a player in Jaylen, but a person in Jaylen," said the Celtics coach. "There needs to be a grieving process that this guy, what he has done on the court and what he's done in the community and what he's done for the city of Boston, there should be a grieving process"
"But the … gray area is throughout that loss, you're also gaining," suggested Mazzulla, presumably referencing the trade's return and the optionality it was made to create. "We're getting three guys back. One guy was a champion. So, we can leverage the experience that he had in the current moment of like, 'Hey, what worked for you guys? How can we learn from little stuff that you did?'"
Even with the returning elements of the Brown trade, Mazzulla insisted his time with Brown has made him a better coach. "I know that for a fact," he said. "Something like that is going to be difficult. But I think if you could just get through it and act as if nothing happened, then that's when I think that you're not in it for the right reasons."
"The biggest thing was just his competitiveness," Mazzulla shared later. "He wasn't afraid to push you. That was for teammates. That was for me. That was for people. He wasn't afraid to hold you accountable to a higher standard. And when you have the opportunity to coach guys like that, it just makes you better."
17 days ago
The acquisition of the Seahawks by a group led by 49ers minority investor Vinod Khosla set the NFL record for a change-of-control sale at $9.612 billion, ending a five-month process the league described as "robust" in a memo shared with clubs on Saturday.
Terms of the transaction were not disclosed, but a source familiar with the matter confirmed to Front Office Sports the sale price is $9.612 billion, soaring past the previous record of $6.05 billion, set in 2023 when the Commanders were sold to a group led by Josh Harris. The deal did not quite beat the record for the highest-priced pro team change-of-control sale in history. That still belongs to the Lakers, which last year were sold to a group led by Mark Walter at a $10 billion valuation. The Seahawks deal marks the second-largest change-of-control transaction in pro sports history.
To complete the deal, Khosla will be required to sell his minority interest in the 49ers, which was acquired just last May.
Vinod Khosla, founder of venture-capital firm Khosla Ventures, has a net worth of nearly $14 billion, according to Forbes. His wife, Neeru Khosla, will "serve as controlling owner," according to a memo shared with other NFL teams on Saturday that was obtained by FOS. Also involved will be Vinod and Neeru's son, Neal Khosla, the memo says—he is expected to "have a significant leadership role in the ownership group."
"We are honored to be entrusted as the next stewards of the Seattle Seahawks," Vinod Khosla said in a statement announcing the deal. "We look forward to building on the winning legacy Paul Allen created and to earning the trust of the Seahawks organization and fans everywhere."
Terms of the transaction were not disclosed, but a source familiar with the matter confirmed to Front Office Sports the sale price is $9.612 billion, soaring past the previous record of $6.05 billion, set in 2023 when the Commanders were sold to a group led by Josh Harris. The deal did not quite beat the record for the highest-priced pro team change-of-control sale in history. That still belongs to the Lakers, which last year were sold to a group led by Mark Walter at a $10 billion valuation. The Seahawks deal marks the second-largest change-of-control transaction in pro sports history.
To complete the deal, Khosla will be required to sell his minority interest in the 49ers, which was acquired just last May.
Vinod Khosla, founder of venture-capital firm Khosla Ventures, has a net worth of nearly $14 billion, according to Forbes. His wife, Neeru Khosla, will "serve as controlling owner," according to a memo shared with other NFL teams on Saturday that was obtained by FOS. Also involved will be Vinod and Neeru's son, Neal Khosla, the memo says—he is expected to "have a significant leadership role in the ownership group."
"We are honored to be entrusted as the next stewards of the Seattle Seahawks," Vinod Khosla said in a statement announcing the deal. "We look forward to building on the winning legacy Paul Allen created and to earning the trust of the Seahawks organization and fans everywhere."
17 days ago
The UFC 329 post-fight press conference is the last piece of business to take care of after the action is over in the Octagon, and we have the live video above at MMAFighting.com.
UFC officials will announce the winners of the “Fight of the Night” and the “Performance of the Night” bonuses, and winning fighters will meet the media after their fights.
UFC President Dana White will also wrap up the event, discuss star’s performances, and possibly talk about what’s next on the UFC calendar, during his scrum with the media.
The UFC 329 post-fight press conference takes place about 30 minutes after the main event ends, meaning it will start around 1 a.m. ET.
UFC officials will announce the winners of the “Fight of the Night” and the “Performance of the Night” bonuses, and winning fighters will meet the media after their fights.
UFC President Dana White will also wrap up the event, discuss star’s performances, and possibly talk about what’s next on the UFC calendar, during his scrum with the media.
The UFC 329 post-fight press conference takes place about 30 minutes after the main event ends, meaning it will start around 1 a.m. ET.
17 days ago
One of the most sought-after prospects has a decision date as Lawrence North receiver Monshun Sales announced Saturday plans for his commitment.
Sales, a consensus five-star recruit, shared on social media that he will publicly declare his commitment at noon Friday. The Rivals industry rankings have Sales as the No. 8 recruit in the 2027 class, and the top wide receiver.
Among the interested will be Indiana football fans, and there are plenty of connections between the Hoosiers and Sales. Consider that Omar Cooper Jr., who helped IU win a national championship, was a first-round NFL draft pick and attended the same high school as Sales. Or how about his former teammate, Davion Chandler, residing in Bloomington and offering an inside look into Curt Cignetti's program.
Insider: Decision time looms for Lawrence North 5-star recruit Monshun Sales: Finalists, stats, predictions
But standout programs offer company in the decision. Sales is originally from Alabama, Texas surged late into Sales' recruitment and figure to come financially equipped to challenge anybody, Ohio State's history of receivers is noteworthy and first-year LSU coach Lane Kiffin has long been one of college football's great offensive minds.
Sales, a consensus five-star recruit, shared on social media that he will publicly declare his commitment at noon Friday. The Rivals industry rankings have Sales as the No. 8 recruit in the 2027 class, and the top wide receiver.
Among the interested will be Indiana football fans, and there are plenty of connections between the Hoosiers and Sales. Consider that Omar Cooper Jr., who helped IU win a national championship, was a first-round NFL draft pick and attended the same high school as Sales. Or how about his former teammate, Davion Chandler, residing in Bloomington and offering an inside look into Curt Cignetti's program.
Insider: Decision time looms for Lawrence North 5-star recruit Monshun Sales: Finalists, stats, predictions
But standout programs offer company in the decision. Sales is originally from Alabama, Texas surged late into Sales' recruitment and figure to come financially equipped to challenge anybody, Ohio State's history of receivers is noteworthy and first-year LSU coach Lane Kiffin has long been one of college football's great offensive minds.
18 days ago
South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, just weeks after featuring for his country at the World Cup.
Adams featured in all three of South Africa's group games at the tournament, where they reached the knockout stages before losing to co-hosts Canada in the round of 32.
"It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams," South Africa's minister of sport, arts and culture Gayton McKenzie said, in a statement.
"South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his team-mates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international."
Police in South Africa said they had opened an investigation after the body of a 25-year-old man was found at a house in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town, on Saturday morning.
Adams featured in all three of South Africa's group games at the tournament, where they reached the knockout stages before losing to co-hosts Canada in the round of 32.
"It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams," South Africa's minister of sport, arts and culture Gayton McKenzie said, in a statement.
"South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his team-mates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international."
Police in South Africa said they had opened an investigation after the body of a 25-year-old man was found at a house in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town, on Saturday morning.
18 days ago
The Vermont Green FC women's team continues to make history in its inaugural season. Not only did the Green qualify for the USL W playoffs, they got to host the first two rounds and are the Eastern Conference champions.
Now the Green are among the last four teams standing in the USL W and are hosting Asheville City SC, the Southern Conference champions, in one of two national semifinals games on Saturday, July 11. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.
Fans who don't have tickets can still come to Virtue Field and watch the game from behind the north goal outside of the University of Vermont athletic facility. If you don't want to drive out to Virtue Field, read on below for how to watch the game from home.
► Teams: Asheville City SC (10-1-1) at Vermont Green FC (8-0-4)
► Site: Virtue Field
Now the Green are among the last four teams standing in the USL W and are hosting Asheville City SC, the Southern Conference champions, in one of two national semifinals games on Saturday, July 11. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.
Fans who don't have tickets can still come to Virtue Field and watch the game from behind the north goal outside of the University of Vermont athletic facility. If you don't want to drive out to Virtue Field, read on below for how to watch the game from home.
► Teams: Asheville City SC (10-1-1) at Vermont Green FC (8-0-4)
► Site: Virtue Field
18 days ago
Jul. 10—MITCHELL — Mitchell native Madison Arnold is carrying on a tradition that her hometown has waited nearly 50 years to celebrate.
Arnold, the reigning Miss Rodeo South Dakota 2026, became the first woman from Mitchell to earn the prestigious ****** le since Jerry Luckett claimed the crown in 1975. Luckett remains a Mitchell resident, making Arnold's accomplishment even more meaningful for a community with deep ties to rodeo and the Corn Palace Stampede. For Arnold, representing both South Dakota and her hometown has been one of the greatest honors of her life.
"It's a blessing to be able to bring the crown back to the Corn Palace, just because it has been so long," Arnold said. "There are so many girls that wish to have the opportunity, and Mitchell has been such an amazing community to have this position. The Corn Palace Stampede Rodeo community really helped me, and just growing up in that rodeo environment. ... They're always there to help and be there for me."
Arnold's love for the Western lifestyle began at a young age and quickly became a way of life.
Growing up in Mitchell, she eagerly signed up for nearly every discipline that 4-H rodeo offered across South Dakota. Whether it was reining, ranch riding, barrel racing, pole bending, show jumping or hunt seat equitation, Arnold embraced every opportunity at her disposal.
Arnold, the reigning Miss Rodeo South Dakota 2026, became the first woman from Mitchell to earn the prestigious ****** le since Jerry Luckett claimed the crown in 1975. Luckett remains a Mitchell resident, making Arnold's accomplishment even more meaningful for a community with deep ties to rodeo and the Corn Palace Stampede. For Arnold, representing both South Dakota and her hometown has been one of the greatest honors of her life.
"It's a blessing to be able to bring the crown back to the Corn Palace, just because it has been so long," Arnold said. "There are so many girls that wish to have the opportunity, and Mitchell has been such an amazing community to have this position. The Corn Palace Stampede Rodeo community really helped me, and just growing up in that rodeo environment. ... They're always there to help and be there for me."
Arnold's love for the Western lifestyle began at a young age and quickly became a way of life.
Growing up in Mitchell, she eagerly signed up for nearly every discipline that 4-H rodeo offered across South Dakota. Whether it was reining, ranch riding, barrel racing, pole bending, show jumping or hunt seat equitation, Arnold embraced every opportunity at her disposal.
19 days ago
Mariners acquire Cubs' 31 home run outfielder in 'realistic' trade idea originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Seattle Mariners need another right-handed bat in their lineup.
Rob Refsnyder's .422 OPS before he landed on the injured list was not getting the job done.
"Thanks in large part to both Cal Raleigh and Rob Refsnyder looking like shells of their former selves, the Mariners have an MLB-worst .622 OPS against left-handed pitching this season," Bleacher Report's Kery Miller wrote Friday.
If the postseason started today, the Mariners would be the third and final Wild Card team in the AL.
The Seattle Mariners need another right-handed bat in their lineup.
Rob Refsnyder's .422 OPS before he landed on the injured list was not getting the job done.
"Thanks in large part to both Cal Raleigh and Rob Refsnyder looking like shells of their former selves, the Mariners have an MLB-worst .622 OPS against left-handed pitching this season," Bleacher Report's Kery Miller wrote Friday.
If the postseason started today, the Mariners would be the third and final Wild Card team in the AL.
19 days ago
France knocked out Morocco in Thursday's first World Cup quarterfinal with a 2-0 score that meant the same result as when the two countries last faced off four years ago in the semifinals in Qatar.
The French were threatening from the opening minutes, creating a flurry of chances on the pitch at Gillette Stadium, near Boston. Despite thirteen efforts before half-time, they were denied by a well-organised Moroccan defence and a vigilant Yassine Bounou, with the score locked at 0-0.
The key moment of the first half was a missed penalty by the French captain Kylian Mbappé in the 28th minute. After a long wait before being able to step up, the forward saw his attempt comfortably saved by the Moroccan goalkeeper.
Another highlight came in stoppage time at the end of the first half, when Lucas Digne unleashed a spectacular shot from 25 metres that crashed against Bounou’s crossbar.
With very few attacking chances, Morocco landed only one shot on goal, and that came in the 82nd minute while already trailing by two goals.
The French were threatening from the opening minutes, creating a flurry of chances on the pitch at Gillette Stadium, near Boston. Despite thirteen efforts before half-time, they were denied by a well-organised Moroccan defence and a vigilant Yassine Bounou, with the score locked at 0-0.
The key moment of the first half was a missed penalty by the French captain Kylian Mbappé in the 28th minute. After a long wait before being able to step up, the forward saw his attempt comfortably saved by the Moroccan goalkeeper.
Another highlight came in stoppage time at the end of the first half, when Lucas Digne unleashed a spectacular shot from 25 metres that crashed against Bounou’s crossbar.
With very few attacking chances, Morocco landed only one shot on goal, and that came in the 82nd minute while already trailing by two goals.
20 days ago
Patrick Sandoval Injury Update: Red Sox Pitcher Set to Make Long-Awaited 2026 Debut on Thursday Against White Sox originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
There's good news regarding a Red Sox pitcher prior to the All-Star break. Patrick Sandoval, out of action since June 2024, will make his 2026 debut today, July 9.
Sandoval, 29, makes his return to the mound, facing the White Sox at Rate Field in Chicago. This comes after undergoing Tommy John surgery not long after signing a two-year deal with Boston in December 2024.
"This whole process has been mentally draining and challenging, obviously," Sandoval told MLB.com. "The physical stuff, the setbacks and the pain, or whatever, but it took a toll mentally, for sure, and it just taught me a lot."
Prior to signing with the Red Sox, Sandoval accumulated a 19-45 record and a 4.01 ERA with the Angels, striking out 529 batters in 107 starts. Requiring surgery in 2024, the Red Sox would sign Sandoval to a two-year, $18.25 million contract in the offseason.
There's good news regarding a Red Sox pitcher prior to the All-Star break. Patrick Sandoval, out of action since June 2024, will make his 2026 debut today, July 9.
Sandoval, 29, makes his return to the mound, facing the White Sox at Rate Field in Chicago. This comes after undergoing Tommy John surgery not long after signing a two-year deal with Boston in December 2024.
"This whole process has been mentally draining and challenging, obviously," Sandoval told MLB.com. "The physical stuff, the setbacks and the pain, or whatever, but it took a toll mentally, for sure, and it just taught me a lot."
Prior to signing with the Red Sox, Sandoval accumulated a 19-45 record and a 4.01 ERA with the Angels, striking out 529 batters in 107 starts. Requiring surgery in 2024, the Red Sox would sign Sandoval to a two-year, $18.25 million contract in the offseason.
21 days ago
Championship teams aren't built by stars alone. We've seen this yearly from the Baltimore Ravens and each of the other 31 franchises. For every Lamar Jackson, Kyle Hamilton, or Roquan Smith, there's another player whose importance only becomes obvious when he's asked to shoulder a larger workload.
Those players rarely dominate headlines, but they often determine whether talented rosters reach their potential. Broderick Washington could become one such player for the Ravens in 2026.
After missing most of last season while recovering from a torn Achilles, he enters training camp healthy and with an opportunity to reclaim a key role along Baltimore's defensive front. It's a position that may carry more significance than many realize.
The Ravens have ***** embled one of the NFL's most talented defenses. The defensive line, however, may still carry questions.
In 2025, Washington missed all but three games due to injury and was in the starting lineup only once. Nnamdi Madubuike was lost after September when it was announced that he would miss the remainder of the season due to a neck injury. This past April, he had neck surgery, and the hope is that he will be able to play in the 2026 season.
Those players rarely dominate headlines, but they often determine whether talented rosters reach their potential. Broderick Washington could become one such player for the Ravens in 2026.
After missing most of last season while recovering from a torn Achilles, he enters training camp healthy and with an opportunity to reclaim a key role along Baltimore's defensive front. It's a position that may carry more significance than many realize.
The Ravens have ***** embled one of the NFL's most talented defenses. The defensive line, however, may still carry questions.
In 2025, Washington missed all but three games due to injury and was in the starting lineup only once. Nnamdi Madubuike was lost after September when it was announced that he would miss the remainder of the season due to a neck injury. This past April, he had neck surgery, and the hope is that he will be able to play in the 2026 season.
21 days ago
Justin Shifflett thought his all star team's season was over after a third-place finish in the state tournament. Then, the following Monday, June 29, the coach got a phone call telling him that the second-place team couldn't attend the regional tournament in Florida due to lack of participants. Officials asked Shifflett if his team would like to be the second representative from Virginia.
Shifflett had to make some quick phone calls to all of the families to see if they could go. All 12 said they could.
"It was a whirlwind," Shifflett said. "I'm still trying to figure it out. It was wild, but it's been an incredible experience."
The Northeast Augusta Rookie League Machine Pitch team will begin play in the Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken Southeast Region in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, Wednesday, July 8. The NEA teams will play Okeeheelee, Florida, at 2 p.m. to open pool play in the eight-team tournament. Pool play runs through Friday, July 10. The top four teams advance to a single-elimination tournament beginning Saturday, July 11.
"They've battled through adversity and anything you can imagine," Shifflett said. "Being the underdogs, playing on fields they've never played on, rain delays, sitting in hot sun. They never gave up. They battled through every single game. It's a phenomenal group of kids."
Shifflett had to make some quick phone calls to all of the families to see if they could go. All 12 said they could.
"It was a whirlwind," Shifflett said. "I'm still trying to figure it out. It was wild, but it's been an incredible experience."
The Northeast Augusta Rookie League Machine Pitch team will begin play in the Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken Southeast Region in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, Wednesday, July 8. The NEA teams will play Okeeheelee, Florida, at 2 p.m. to open pool play in the eight-team tournament. Pool play runs through Friday, July 10. The top four teams advance to a single-elimination tournament beginning Saturday, July 11.
"They've battled through adversity and anything you can imagine," Shifflett said. "Being the underdogs, playing on fields they've never played on, rain delays, sitting in hot sun. They never gave up. They battled through every single game. It's a phenomenal group of kids."
21 days ago
Of the 32 NHL teams, several front offices stand out amongst the rest. These organizations consistently make moves to put their teams in positions to contend for a Stanley Cup. Their general managers are bold, gambling and winning through free agency, trades and the NHL Draft.
It should be no surprise that these teams are the cream of the crop in the current NHL. Some of these teams also have a leg up in attracting free agents due to state income tax laws, weather or the fun of the city.
But success, whether through skill or luck, and being born on third base, are part of life, and thus part of hockey. It’s impossible to exclude these factors. In this sense, sports have never been fair. But this list will be as fair as it gets.
The Hurricanes made a number of moves in the past 15 years that set them up for long-term success. They drafted Jaccob Slavin, a defensive cornerstone, in the fourth round of the 2012 NHL Draft. They drafted a steal in Sebastian Aho in the second round of the 2015 NHL Draft. Then they selected Andrei Svechnikov and Seth Jarvis in 2018 and 2020, respectively.
Arguably, their best decision was signing Rod Brind’Amour as their coach in 2018. They haven’t missed the playoffs since and have one Stanley Cup from this year to show for it. Brind’Amour has them use an aggressive forecheck and pepper the opposing goalie with shots, a playstyle that has proven effective 90% of the time.
It should be no surprise that these teams are the cream of the crop in the current NHL. Some of these teams also have a leg up in attracting free agents due to state income tax laws, weather or the fun of the city.
But success, whether through skill or luck, and being born on third base, are part of life, and thus part of hockey. It’s impossible to exclude these factors. In this sense, sports have never been fair. But this list will be as fair as it gets.
The Hurricanes made a number of moves in the past 15 years that set them up for long-term success. They drafted Jaccob Slavin, a defensive cornerstone, in the fourth round of the 2012 NHL Draft. They drafted a steal in Sebastian Aho in the second round of the 2015 NHL Draft. Then they selected Andrei Svechnikov and Seth Jarvis in 2018 and 2020, respectively.
Arguably, their best decision was signing Rod Brind’Amour as their coach in 2018. They haven’t missed the playoffs since and have one Stanley Cup from this year to show for it. Brind’Amour has them use an aggressive forecheck and pepper the opposing goalie with shots, a playstyle that has proven effective 90% of the time.
22 days ago
It should be another impressive season for Notre Dame football, as it has stars all over the field according to Pro Football Focus.
Dalton Wasserman and Max Chadwick combined to ranked the top-50 players of the 2026 college football season, and the Irish placed four on the list.
It’s not a surprise to anyone that cornerback Leonard Moore was ranked, as he was the No. 2 player behind only Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. You could make the argument that the Notre Dame star should be above him, considering the results of their matchup in the 2025 National Championship Game. They said that Moore is “one of the best cornerback prospects in recent memory.”
The next Irish star to make was quarterback CJ Carr checking in at No. 14. He was the fifth at his position on the list, showing how strong quarterbacks should be this fall. Wasserman and Chadwick expect Carr to have a bigger season than last fall mainly due to Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price being first-round NFL draft picks.
Linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa was next as No. 16, the top player at his position. There is a bit of a question as to how he’ll play early in the year after coming back from an injury last season, but by all reports he should be ready to go for the start of the year.
Dalton Wasserman and Max Chadwick combined to ranked the top-50 players of the 2026 college football season, and the Irish placed four on the list.
It’s not a surprise to anyone that cornerback Leonard Moore was ranked, as he was the No. 2 player behind only Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. You could make the argument that the Notre Dame star should be above him, considering the results of their matchup in the 2025 National Championship Game. They said that Moore is “one of the best cornerback prospects in recent memory.”
The next Irish star to make was quarterback CJ Carr checking in at No. 14. He was the fifth at his position on the list, showing how strong quarterbacks should be this fall. Wasserman and Chadwick expect Carr to have a bigger season than last fall mainly due to Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price being first-round NFL draft picks.
Linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa was next as No. 16, the top player at his position. There is a bit of a question as to how he’ll play early in the year after coming back from an injury last season, but by all reports he should be ready to go for the start of the year.
23 days ago
The leaders in the American League and specifically the AL East open a four-game series tonight in St. Petersburg when the New York Yankees (49-40) take the field against the first-place Tampa Bay Rays (52-35). Tampa Bay enters the night holding a four-game lead over New York in the East and boasting one of the best home records in baseball at 31-12, while the Yankees arrive looking to halt a difficult stretch that has seen them lose 12 of their last 15 games.
Both clubs are coming off disappointing losses on Sunday. The Yankees were handled 6-1 by the Twins in the Bronx, continuing a rough weekend in which Minnesota scored 17 runs over the final two games of the series. New York has now dropped two straight and has struggled offensively of late, scoring just 41 runs during its recent 15-game slide. Tampa Bay was shut out 2-0 by Houston. Even with Sunday's defeat, the Rays have won nine of their last eleven games.
The marquee attraction tonight is the favorite to win the Cy Young, New York’s Cam Schlittler (8-5, 2.08 ERA). He’ll take the mound opposite converted Rays’ starter Griffin Jax (4-5, 3.45 ERA). Schlittler enters the series leading American League starters in ERA while ranking among the league leaders in strikeouts. Through 104 innings, he owns a sparkling 0.96 WHIP and 123 strikeouts. Schlittler’s last start, however, was less than Cy Young-worthy. It was easily his worst of the season. Against Detroit last week, he was tagged for six runs including four home runs over just four innings in a 9-3 loss. For Tampa Bay, Jax has quietly been a dependable arm despite a 4-5 record. His 3.45 ERA and 1.27 WHIP reflect solid mid-rotation production, although the biggest concern has been the long ball; he has surrendered 11 homers in 60 innings. Oh by the way, the Yankees lead all of baseball with 128 home runs.
The Yankees’ primary issues during this recent but extended run of poor play have been hitting and defense. As noted earlier, they are averaging less than three runs per game over the past three weeks. Couple that with atrocious defense - 20 errors and 29 unearned runs over the last 15 games (most by a Yankees’ team in any 15-game span since 1935) and the result is obvious; they have fallen out of first in the East and are far enough behind Tampa to make this series crucial.
The Difference of late for the Rays has been Junior Caminero who has homered ten times in his last ten games.
Both clubs are coming off disappointing losses on Sunday. The Yankees were handled 6-1 by the Twins in the Bronx, continuing a rough weekend in which Minnesota scored 17 runs over the final two games of the series. New York has now dropped two straight and has struggled offensively of late, scoring just 41 runs during its recent 15-game slide. Tampa Bay was shut out 2-0 by Houston. Even with Sunday's defeat, the Rays have won nine of their last eleven games.
The marquee attraction tonight is the favorite to win the Cy Young, New York’s Cam Schlittler (8-5, 2.08 ERA). He’ll take the mound opposite converted Rays’ starter Griffin Jax (4-5, 3.45 ERA). Schlittler enters the series leading American League starters in ERA while ranking among the league leaders in strikeouts. Through 104 innings, he owns a sparkling 0.96 WHIP and 123 strikeouts. Schlittler’s last start, however, was less than Cy Young-worthy. It was easily his worst of the season. Against Detroit last week, he was tagged for six runs including four home runs over just four innings in a 9-3 loss. For Tampa Bay, Jax has quietly been a dependable arm despite a 4-5 record. His 3.45 ERA and 1.27 WHIP reflect solid mid-rotation production, although the biggest concern has been the long ball; he has surrendered 11 homers in 60 innings. Oh by the way, the Yankees lead all of baseball with 128 home runs.
The Yankees’ primary issues during this recent but extended run of poor play have been hitting and defense. As noted earlier, they are averaging less than three runs per game over the past three weeks. Couple that with atrocious defense - 20 errors and 29 unearned runs over the last 15 games (most by a Yankees’ team in any 15-game span since 1935) and the result is obvious; they have fallen out of first in the East and are far enough behind Tampa to make this series crucial.
The Difference of late for the Rays has been Junior Caminero who has homered ten times in his last ten games.
