9 days ago
Enzo Maresca had predicted Phil Foden would score, and he did score. For much of Foden's career that would scarcely have seemed an outlandish prediction. Not now. Foden's had struck 27 times for Manchester City alone in 2023-24. Yet when Ipswich arrived at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, his drought spanned 35 games for City, plus two for England that may have cost him a place at the World Cup.
But there are two Fodens. Maresca remembered the teenage prodigy, the player who had won the individual awards, the seeming generational talent before he became the goal-shy City substitute. "With Phil I said many times, I know him from years ago, for me he's one of the best Premier League players," said the City manager, who had worked with Foden in his previous times at the Etihad Stadium. "And since day one it's my duty to help him to again be one of the best players."
That process got off to something of a false start. By the time City kicked off against Ipswich Foden had, in effect, sat out four-and-three-quarter games. His first-half red card in the Manchester derby was followed by a three-match domestic suspension. He was an unused substitute in the Champions League defeat against Paris Saint-Germain.
Even before being banned, he had been usurped, and under successive managers. In first Pep Guardiola's valedictory season and then Maresca's first in charge, Rayan Cherki has been the No 10 who has starred and sparkled. Foden has provided less magic. Perhaps it says something for the luxuries Maresca enjoys that Foden has felt the more prosaic player in his position.
Perhaps it is an added complication, too, that in Enzo Fernandez he has costly competition emerging, with the £125m signing spending the second half against PSG operating as the most advanced of the midfield trio. A lesson of that defeat may be that, against elite opposition, Maresca requires both Ayyoub Bouaddi and Elliot Anderson to anchor the midfield, perhaps meaning Fernandez is the most advanced of the trio.
#perhaps #enzo #phil
But there are two Fodens. Maresca remembered the teenage prodigy, the player who had won the individual awards, the seeming generational talent before he became the goal-shy City substitute. "With Phil I said many times, I know him from years ago, for me he's one of the best Premier League players," said the City manager, who had worked with Foden in his previous times at the Etihad Stadium. "And since day one it's my duty to help him to again be one of the best players."
That process got off to something of a false start. By the time City kicked off against Ipswich Foden had, in effect, sat out four-and-three-quarter games. His first-half red card in the Manchester derby was followed by a three-match domestic suspension. He was an unused substitute in the Champions League defeat against Paris Saint-Germain.
Even before being banned, he had been usurped, and under successive managers. In first Pep Guardiola's valedictory season and then Maresca's first in charge, Rayan Cherki has been the No 10 who has starred and sparkled. Foden has provided less magic. Perhaps it says something for the luxuries Maresca enjoys that Foden has felt the more prosaic player in his position.
Perhaps it is an added complication, too, that in Enzo Fernandez he has costly competition emerging, with the £125m signing spending the second half against PSG operating as the most advanced of the midfield trio. A lesson of that defeat may be that, against elite opposition, Maresca requires both Ayyoub Bouaddi and Elliot Anderson to anchor the midfield, perhaps meaning Fernandez is the most advanced of the trio.
#perhaps #enzo #phil
1 month ago
The 2026-27 season is quickly approaching for the Philadelphia 76ers as they have their eyes on ending a long ***** le drought after the big additions made in the offseason. The Sixers will field one of the more talented rosters in the league and will look to get to the mountaintop in 2027.
It's now time to look ahead to the new season and time to break down each position for the Sixers in an effort to preview what the season might look like. Sixers Wire will look at the centers now and take a look at what the Sixers bring to the table at the position:
Sure, the Sixers have some shiny new players in Jaylen Brown and LeBron James, but all of this still comes down to the health of Joel Embiid. The big fella is still a dominant player when he can get on the floor as evidenced by his 26.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.9 ***** ists he averaged in 38 games in the 2025-26 season. Embiid being able to return early from an appendectomy completely changed that Round 1 series with Boston when the Sixers rallied from a 3-1 deficit. He averaged 28.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 7.0 ***** ists in Round 1 against the Celtics as he spurred the rally for Philadelphia.
When Embiid is right, there aren't many players in the league who can slow him down. He has lost a step defensively as a result of the injuries and surgeries he's had to undergo has robbed him of a lot of speed and athleticism, but Embiid is so smart and able to find new ways to be effective on defense. He is still one of the top players in the game and should be treated as such. If he's right and healthy, the Sixers take an even bigger leap forward.
The Sixers will rely on third-year big man Adem Bona as they did in the 2025-26 season. He averaged 4.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks as he was able to establish himself in coach Nick Nurse's rotation. He will have competition, though, as the Sixers did add bouncy Ariel Hukporti early in free agency. Also, in his third season, Hukporti will look to find an opportunity in Philadelphia.
#look #still
It's now time to look ahead to the new season and time to break down each position for the Sixers in an effort to preview what the season might look like. Sixers Wire will look at the centers now and take a look at what the Sixers bring to the table at the position:
Sure, the Sixers have some shiny new players in Jaylen Brown and LeBron James, but all of this still comes down to the health of Joel Embiid. The big fella is still a dominant player when he can get on the floor as evidenced by his 26.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.9 ***** ists he averaged in 38 games in the 2025-26 season. Embiid being able to return early from an appendectomy completely changed that Round 1 series with Boston when the Sixers rallied from a 3-1 deficit. He averaged 28.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 7.0 ***** ists in Round 1 against the Celtics as he spurred the rally for Philadelphia.
When Embiid is right, there aren't many players in the league who can slow him down. He has lost a step defensively as a result of the injuries and surgeries he's had to undergo has robbed him of a lot of speed and athleticism, but Embiid is so smart and able to find new ways to be effective on defense. He is still one of the top players in the game and should be treated as such. If he's right and healthy, the Sixers take an even bigger leap forward.
The Sixers will rely on third-year big man Adem Bona as they did in the 2025-26 season. He averaged 4.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks as he was able to establish himself in coach Nick Nurse's rotation. He will have competition, though, as the Sixers did add bouncy Ariel Hukporti early in free agency. Also, in his third season, Hukporti will look to find an opportunity in Philadelphia.
#look #still
2 months ago
Extreme weather is creating a more demanding environment for property owners, insurers, and communities. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), the United States recorded 27 confirmed billion-dollar weather and climate disasters in 2024, resulting in a total cost of $182.7 billion. These events spanned a wide range of extremes, including severe storm events, tropical cyclones, wildfires, drought/heat waves, and winter storm/cold wave events. Over the last decade, ***** ulative losses from these disasters have exceeded $1.4 trillion, driven significantly by population growth, material wealth, and increased development in hazard-prone areas. These figures suggest that the financial consequences of extreme events may increasingly depend on how accurately the value of exposed property is understood before a loss occurs.
That question becomes especially consequential during reconstruction. A 2026 report from Bloomberg, featured in Claims Journal, noted that surveys conducted by United Policyholders since 2007 found an average of two-thirds of wildfire survivors reporting that they were underinsured, with an average shortfall of $200,000 or more. The Insurance Information Institute has similarly estimated that two-thirds of American homeowners may be underinsured for wildfire losses, typically by about 20%, and in some cases by as much as 60%. These findings illustrate how the presence of an insurance policy can still leave a substantial difference between available coverage and the resources required to rebuild, particularly when construction costs rise after a catastrophe.
The financial implications can extend across the broader insurance ecosystem. Aon's 2026 Climate and Catastrophe Insight reported approximately $260 billion in global economic losses from natural catastrophes during 2025, compared with $127 billion in insured losses. For property stakeholders, such a figure may place greater attention on the relationship between the value ***** igned to an ***** et, the cost of restoring it, and the capital available when a loss occurs.
Frequency can add another layer to that calculation. Data from NCEI indicate that the average interval between U.S. billion-dollar disaster events was approximately 16 days during 2020–2024, compared with 82 days during the 1980s. NCEI notes that shorter intervals can leave less time and fewer resources for response, recovery, and preparation for subsequent events. As the time between major events contracts, property valuations may require more frequent attention because construction costs, labor conditions, materials, and local economic circumstances can change between policy reviews.
#property #losses #insurance #information
That question becomes especially consequential during reconstruction. A 2026 report from Bloomberg, featured in Claims Journal, noted that surveys conducted by United Policyholders since 2007 found an average of two-thirds of wildfire survivors reporting that they were underinsured, with an average shortfall of $200,000 or more. The Insurance Information Institute has similarly estimated that two-thirds of American homeowners may be underinsured for wildfire losses, typically by about 20%, and in some cases by as much as 60%. These findings illustrate how the presence of an insurance policy can still leave a substantial difference between available coverage and the resources required to rebuild, particularly when construction costs rise after a catastrophe.
The financial implications can extend across the broader insurance ecosystem. Aon's 2026 Climate and Catastrophe Insight reported approximately $260 billion in global economic losses from natural catastrophes during 2025, compared with $127 billion in insured losses. For property stakeholders, such a figure may place greater attention on the relationship between the value ***** igned to an ***** et, the cost of restoring it, and the capital available when a loss occurs.
Frequency can add another layer to that calculation. Data from NCEI indicate that the average interval between U.S. billion-dollar disaster events was approximately 16 days during 2020–2024, compared with 82 days during the 1980s. NCEI notes that shorter intervals can leave less time and fewer resources for response, recovery, and preparation for subsequent events. As the time between major events contracts, property valuations may require more frequent attention because construction costs, labor conditions, materials, and local economic circumstances can change between policy reviews.
#property #losses #insurance #information
2 months ago
The Colorado Buffaloes entered Saturday needing a more confident passing game after a tight opening win at Georgia Tech, and Julian Lewis supplied it before Weber State even had time to settle into the afternoon at Folsom Field.
On Colorado's first offensive snap, Lewis hit DeAndre Moore Jr. for a 66-yard touchdown. A few minutes later, Lewis found Joseph Williams for a 63-yard score, and Colorado had already put Weber State in a position where it needed to chase the game.
From my seat, the biggest development was how quickly Lewis played. The Buffs came out attacking downfield, trusting Lewis to make the reads and allowing the receivers to use their speed against Weber State's coverage.
Colorado's 52-21 win moved the Buffs to 2-0 for the first time since 2023. Lewis completed 17 of 23 passes for a career-high 366 yards, four touchdown passes and no interceptions. He added a 3-yard rushing touchdown before halftime, accounting for five scores before leaving the game with 5:50 remaining in the third quarter.
The 52-point afternoon came with a few defensive concerns, particularly in the secondary, but Colorado showed far more life offensively than it did a week ago. Lewis played like a quarterback who could give this team an explosive passing game, while Micah Welch ended one of the program's longest rushing droughts.
#lewis #weber #state #buffs
On Colorado's first offensive snap, Lewis hit DeAndre Moore Jr. for a 66-yard touchdown. A few minutes later, Lewis found Joseph Williams for a 63-yard score, and Colorado had already put Weber State in a position where it needed to chase the game.
From my seat, the biggest development was how quickly Lewis played. The Buffs came out attacking downfield, trusting Lewis to make the reads and allowing the receivers to use their speed against Weber State's coverage.
Colorado's 52-21 win moved the Buffs to 2-0 for the first time since 2023. Lewis completed 17 of 23 passes for a career-high 366 yards, four touchdown passes and no interceptions. He added a 3-yard rushing touchdown before halftime, accounting for five scores before leaving the game with 5:50 remaining in the third quarter.
The 52-point afternoon came with a few defensive concerns, particularly in the secondary, but Colorado showed far more life offensively than it did a week ago. Lewis played like a quarterback who could give this team an explosive passing game, while Micah Welch ended one of the program's longest rushing droughts.
#lewis #weber #state #buffs
2 months ago
Frances Tiafoe and Ben Shelton faced off in the U.S. Open semifinals aiming to end a long drought for American men in Grand Slam tournaments, with Shelton winning in four sets. Andy Roddick was the last U.S. man to win a major — in 2003. Since then European players have dominated. Juan Martín del Potro, the last non-European champion, believes American tennis has the potential to break this pattern. Del Potro is now an ******* yst for ESPN Latin America and has shared insights on his career and offered advice to Carlos Alcaraz on managing injuries. Del Potro retired in 2022 after multiple surgeries.
Ninety Grand Slam tournaments have passed since Andy Roddick defeated Juan Carlos Ferrero in the 2003 final at Flushing Meadows. Since then, no other U.S. male player has managed to win the U.S. Open on home soil or any of the other three majors.
[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]
Apart from Argentina's Juan Martín del Potro at the 2009 U.S. Open and his compatriot Gastón Gaudio at the 2004 French Open, every champion across the world's four major tournaments has been European.
On Friday night, Ben Shelton won in four sets the all-American U.S. Open semifinal with Frances Tiafoe and now will attempt to end the long wait for another men's Grand Slam champion from the United States. Shelton will play Alexander Zverev in the final.
#grand
Ninety Grand Slam tournaments have passed since Andy Roddick defeated Juan Carlos Ferrero in the 2003 final at Flushing Meadows. Since then, no other U.S. male player has managed to win the U.S. Open on home soil or any of the other three majors.
[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]
Apart from Argentina's Juan Martín del Potro at the 2009 U.S. Open and his compatriot Gastón Gaudio at the 2004 French Open, every champion across the world's four major tournaments has been European.
On Friday night, Ben Shelton won in four sets the all-American U.S. Open semifinal with Frances Tiafoe and now will attempt to end the long wait for another men's Grand Slam champion from the United States. Shelton will play Alexander Zverev in the final.
#grand
2 months ago
The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2026 NFL season as one of the league's most interesting teams. They failed to even make the playoffs last season, but after a great offseason, many have the belief that the team can end their 30-year drought to win the Super Bowl this season.
Last season, the Cowboys' offence was exciting and forced many to believe it was among the best in the league.
This was due to Dak Prescott, George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb leading the way on the offense. However, their defence was equally bad, conceding 30.1 points per game.
Owner Jerry Jones promised to revamp the defence, and as part of that, the likes of Quinnen Williams, Rashan Gary, and Von Miller were brought to the team. They also drafted Ohio State player Caleb Downs, and with these additions, many believed the Cowboys could be contenders.
However, Skip Bayless is not one of them, and he has his reason as to why.
#cowboys #many #defence #dallas
Last season, the Cowboys' offence was exciting and forced many to believe it was among the best in the league.
This was due to Dak Prescott, George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb leading the way on the offense. However, their defence was equally bad, conceding 30.1 points per game.
Owner Jerry Jones promised to revamp the defence, and as part of that, the likes of Quinnen Williams, Rashan Gary, and Von Miller were brought to the team. They also drafted Ohio State player Caleb Downs, and with these additions, many believed the Cowboys could be contenders.
However, Skip Bayless is not one of them, and he has his reason as to why.
#cowboys #many #defence #dallas
2 months ago
Iowa football news: How Hawkeyes can snap Playoff drought, per Kirk Herbstreit appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Kirk Ferentz is the Big Ten's all-time winningest football coach, but Ferentz has never led his team, the Iowa Hawkeyes, to the College Football Playoff and isn't a favorite to do so this season. The No. 21 Hawkeyes made a big quarterback decision Friday and have a tough task ahead on Saturday vs. Iowa State, with hope springing anew for a first-ever playoff season.
On Friday, ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit joined The Pat McAfee Show where he laid out how the Hawkeyes can snap their playoff drought.
"I feel like they are (a fringe playoff team) every year," Herbstreit said. "I always look at Iowa with Kirk Ferentz as a team that is always knocking on that ten-win mark. I don't think they get credit to be honest with you because of the style of ball they play.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#iowa #herbstreit #clutchpoints
Kirk Ferentz is the Big Ten's all-time winningest football coach, but Ferentz has never led his team, the Iowa Hawkeyes, to the College Football Playoff and isn't a favorite to do so this season. The No. 21 Hawkeyes made a big quarterback decision Friday and have a tough task ahead on Saturday vs. Iowa State, with hope springing anew for a first-ever playoff season.
On Friday, ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit joined The Pat McAfee Show where he laid out how the Hawkeyes can snap their playoff drought.
"I feel like they are (a fringe playoff team) every year," Herbstreit said. "I always look at Iowa with Kirk Ferentz as a team that is always knocking on that ten-win mark. I don't think they get credit to be honest with you because of the style of ball they play.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#iowa #herbstreit #clutchpoints
2 months ago
Former Australia opener David Warner found himself in a playful social media exchange with England's famous fan group, the Barmy Army, on Friday, and the banter quickly moved from Saim Ayub's ducks to Marnus Labuschagne's century drought, England's curfew troubles and Warner's long-running Stuart Broad problem.
It all started when the Barmy Army took a dig at Warner after Pakistan batter Saim Ayub registered a pair of ducks in the final Test against England at Edgbaston. The England fan group posted a statistic pointing out that Ayub had now registered a pair twice on English soil.
Replying to the Barmy Army, Warner wrote: "Interesting stat. When was the last time I went 42 innings without a Test hundred??"
The reference was not actually about Warner. The 42 innings was a cheeky dig at former Australia teammate Marnus Labuschagne, who had gone through a lengthy drought without a Test century. Labuschagne's last Test hundred came against England at Headingley in 2023, and his drought had stretched to 42 innings.
But he wasn't finished. Then came the curfew dig.
Warner followed his 42-innings reference with another jab: "Oh do you guys still have a curfew? Asking for a mate."
That was a reference to England's recent off-field disciplinary issues involving players breaking team curfew and going out drinking. The issue had become a talking point around the England setup, with fast bowler Brydon Carse among the players caught up in the recent controversy.
#australia
It all started when the Barmy Army took a dig at Warner after Pakistan batter Saim Ayub registered a pair of ducks in the final Test against England at Edgbaston. The England fan group posted a statistic pointing out that Ayub had now registered a pair twice on English soil.
Replying to the Barmy Army, Warner wrote: "Interesting stat. When was the last time I went 42 innings without a Test hundred??"
The reference was not actually about Warner. The 42 innings was a cheeky dig at former Australia teammate Marnus Labuschagne, who had gone through a lengthy drought without a Test century. Labuschagne's last Test hundred came against England at Headingley in 2023, and his drought had stretched to 42 innings.
But he wasn't finished. Then came the curfew dig.
Warner followed his 42-innings reference with another jab: "Oh do you guys still have a curfew? Asking for a mate."
That was a reference to England's recent off-field disciplinary issues involving players breaking team curfew and going out drinking. The issue had become a talking point around the England setup, with fast bowler Brydon Carse among the players caught up in the recent controversy.
#australia
2 months ago
NEW YORK (AP) — Ninety Grand Slam tournaments have passed since Andy Roddick defeated Juan Carlos Ferrero in the 2003 final at Flushing Meadows. Since then, no other U.S. male player has managed to win the U.S. Open on home soil or any of the other three majors.
Apart from Argentina's Juan Martín del Potro at the 2009 U.S. Open and his compatriot Gastón Gaudio at the 2004 French Open, every champion across the world's four major tournaments has been European.
Frances Tiafoe or Ben Shelton — who face off in the U.S. Open semifinals on Friday night — could end this drought for American men.
"You know the history; it was the era of the 'Big Three' (Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic) — something unmatched," Del Potro told reporters. "But American tennis has the potential to break this pattern. There are so many good players now with the potential to be Grand Slam champions, and I sincerely believe Tiafoe or Shelton can do it."
As the last Grand Slam champion born outside of Europe, Del Potro takes pride in walking the grounds of the U.S. Open.
#grand #potro #since
Apart from Argentina's Juan Martín del Potro at the 2009 U.S. Open and his compatriot Gastón Gaudio at the 2004 French Open, every champion across the world's four major tournaments has been European.
Frances Tiafoe or Ben Shelton — who face off in the U.S. Open semifinals on Friday night — could end this drought for American men.
"You know the history; it was the era of the 'Big Three' (Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic) — something unmatched," Del Potro told reporters. "But American tennis has the potential to break this pattern. There are so many good players now with the potential to be Grand Slam champions, and I sincerely believe Tiafoe or Shelton can do it."
As the last Grand Slam champion born outside of Europe, Del Potro takes pride in walking the grounds of the U.S. Open.
#grand #potro #since
2 months ago
Top-seeded Alexander Zverev is the only Grand Slam champion still standing as the US Open men's singles hit the semi-final stage on Friday, when all eyes will be on the all-American matchup between eighth-seeded Ben Shelton and 11th seed Frances Tiafoe.
Shelton vanquished defending champion and seven-time major-winner Carlos Alcaraz in a gripping quarter-final that kept even Zverev watching until after 3:30 in the morning.
"I did not go to bed," the German said, predicting a "fun semi-final between two Americans."
Tiafoe also came through a dramatic five sets to reach the last four, rallying from two sets down to hand young compatriot Alex Michelsen a heartbreaking defeat.
Now he and Shelton will battle to become the first US man to reach the US Open final since Taylor Fritz in 2024 and have a chance to end the American men's 23-year Grand Slam ****** le drought -- stretching back to Andy Roddick's 2003 US Open triumph.
#open #slam #champion
Shelton vanquished defending champion and seven-time major-winner Carlos Alcaraz in a gripping quarter-final that kept even Zverev watching until after 3:30 in the morning.
"I did not go to bed," the German said, predicting a "fun semi-final between two Americans."
Tiafoe also came through a dramatic five sets to reach the last four, rallying from two sets down to hand young compatriot Alex Michelsen a heartbreaking defeat.
Now he and Shelton will battle to become the first US man to reach the US Open final since Taylor Fritz in 2024 and have a chance to end the American men's 23-year Grand Slam ****** le drought -- stretching back to Andy Roddick's 2003 US Open triumph.
#open #slam #champion
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2 months ago
Week 0 and Week 1 gave us plenty of drama! UMass gave us one of the biggest upsets in modern day College Football when they knocked off Rutgers, while Michigan needed a diabolical miracle to beat Western Michigan at the buzzer on a Hail Mary. Oregon also a close call at home to Boise State, so the Big Ten was off to a rough start, but they have a chance to make a statement in Week 2. Texas hosts Ohio State in Week 2 as the headline
Well, here are my Top 25 rankings entering Week 2 of the 2026 season, along with quick overviews and predictions for each team. Every Sunday moving forward you can find my Top 25 here on NBC! Make sure to join the chat on social and chime in with your rankings or where I went wrong! Let's get to it.
1. Ohio State Buckeyes
2026 Record: 1-0 (0-0)
Last Game: 56-3 win vs Ball State
Next Game: At #5 Texas — Saturday at 7:30 PM ET
Three different Buckeyes threw for five touchdowns against Ball State and three different rushers had a touchdown as well. Ohio State even scored in the final two minutes against Ball State in a 56-3 win. The Buckeyes were shaking off all the rust and getting all their guys confidence up ahead of the top five showdown with Texas. Ohio State won last year's meeting versus Texas in Columbus, 14-7. We'll see what happens this year! I say Ohio State 21, Texas 20. Jeremiah Smith snaps his two-game touchdown drought against Texas and the Longhorns move to 0-6 against Ohio State and Georgia since 2024.
2. Georgia Bulldogs
2026 Record: 1-0 (0-0)
Last Game: 63-3 win vs Tennessee State
Next Game: Vs Western Kentucky — Saturday at 12:45 PM ET
#state #texas
Well, here are my Top 25 rankings entering Week 2 of the 2026 season, along with quick overviews and predictions for each team. Every Sunday moving forward you can find my Top 25 here on NBC! Make sure to join the chat on social and chime in with your rankings or where I went wrong! Let's get to it.
1. Ohio State Buckeyes
2026 Record: 1-0 (0-0)
Last Game: 56-3 win vs Ball State
Next Game: At #5 Texas — Saturday at 7:30 PM ET
Three different Buckeyes threw for five touchdowns against Ball State and three different rushers had a touchdown as well. Ohio State even scored in the final two minutes against Ball State in a 56-3 win. The Buckeyes were shaking off all the rust and getting all their guys confidence up ahead of the top five showdown with Texas. Ohio State won last year's meeting versus Texas in Columbus, 14-7. We'll see what happens this year! I say Ohio State 21, Texas 20. Jeremiah Smith snaps his two-game touchdown drought against Texas and the Longhorns move to 0-6 against Ohio State and Georgia since 2024.
2. Georgia Bulldogs
2026 Record: 1-0 (0-0)
Last Game: 63-3 win vs Tennessee State
Next Game: Vs Western Kentucky — Saturday at 12:45 PM ET
#state #texas
2 months ago
(NewsNation) — Rising costs continue to squeeze American households, with prices climbing across groceries, gas and health insurance.
Beef prices have jumped for numerous reasons, including a shrinking U.S. cattle herd, drought, consumer demand, and inflation. Ground beef prices are nearing $7 per pound, up $0.63 since July 2025, and sirloin steaks have jumped to nearly $15 per pound, up $1.04 since July 2025.
Food prices in July 2026 were 3% higher than in July 2025, per the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Economic Research Service.
The ongoing war in Iran has led to rising gas prices, with the national average currently at about $4.14, nearly a dollar higher than it was just a year ago, according to AAA.
Trump administration drafts proposal to pay stay-at-home parents
#beef #higher
Beef prices have jumped for numerous reasons, including a shrinking U.S. cattle herd, drought, consumer demand, and inflation. Ground beef prices are nearing $7 per pound, up $0.63 since July 2025, and sirloin steaks have jumped to nearly $15 per pound, up $1.04 since July 2025.
Food prices in July 2026 were 3% higher than in July 2025, per the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Economic Research Service.
The ongoing war in Iran has led to rising gas prices, with the national average currently at about $4.14, nearly a dollar higher than it was just a year ago, according to AAA.
Trump administration drafts proposal to pay stay-at-home parents
#beef #higher
2 months ago
The 18-race 2026 IndyCar season has officially come to an end. After Chip Ganassi Racing's Alex Palou had already clinched his fifth championship before the Grand Prix of Monterey, Palou finished just eighth at Laguna Seca – the worst finish of his career at the track.
Instead, it was Scott McLaughlin claiming his first victory of the season to close things out. Andretti Global's Kyle Kirkwood finished second to clinch second in the championship, just 10 points ahead of Arrow McLaren's Christian Lundgaard.
With the season coming to an end, here are five thoughts to wrap up another year in IndyCar.
It had been 35 races since McLaughlin was in victory lane. After going through the longest drought of his career at any level, the 33-year-old went out on top in 2026.
This season has been about baby steps for McLaughlin and the crew on his No. 3 Team Penske Chevrolet. After the team shuffled the personnel around McLaughlin – mainly rehiring former Team Penske president Tim Cindric as strategist and making accomplished IMSA engineer Raul Prados the race engineer – the New Zealander had to adjust to new folks around him.
#palou #championship #Career
Instead, it was Scott McLaughlin claiming his first victory of the season to close things out. Andretti Global's Kyle Kirkwood finished second to clinch second in the championship, just 10 points ahead of Arrow McLaren's Christian Lundgaard.
With the season coming to an end, here are five thoughts to wrap up another year in IndyCar.
It had been 35 races since McLaughlin was in victory lane. After going through the longest drought of his career at any level, the 33-year-old went out on top in 2026.
This season has been about baby steps for McLaughlin and the crew on his No. 3 Team Penske Chevrolet. After the team shuffled the personnel around McLaughlin – mainly rehiring former Team Penske president Tim Cindric as strategist and making accomplished IMSA engineer Raul Prados the race engineer – the New Zealander had to adjust to new folks around him.
#palou #championship #Career
2 months ago
NEW YORK (AP) — Frances Tiafoe and Alex Michelsen are headed to the U.S. Open quarterfinals. Ben Shelton had a chance to join them with a victory Sunday night.
The American men are making a real run at ending their lengthy Grand Slam drought.
The U.S. hasn't had a men's major champion since Andy Roddick won in Flushing Meadows in 2003, and there haven't even been many great opportunities in the more than two decades since.
But backed by the home crowd and in good form, the Americans had five players in the final 16 of a major for the first time since 1995 and will be a real threat in the second week of the final Grand Slam tournament of the season.
"We play so much outside of the States obviously, a lot of time in Europe," Tiafoe said. "This sport's so international, so to be able to play in front of friends, family, loved ones, is amazing. They don't get to see you much, so you want to put on a show."
#much
The American men are making a real run at ending their lengthy Grand Slam drought.
The U.S. hasn't had a men's major champion since Andy Roddick won in Flushing Meadows in 2003, and there haven't even been many great opportunities in the more than two decades since.
But backed by the home crowd and in good form, the Americans had five players in the final 16 of a major for the first time since 1995 and will be a real threat in the second week of the final Grand Slam tournament of the season.
"We play so much outside of the States obviously, a lot of time in Europe," Tiafoe said. "This sport's so international, so to be able to play in front of friends, family, loved ones, is amazing. They don't get to see you much, so you want to put on a show."
#much
2 months ago
"El Cucuy" is back for more.
Former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) interim Lightweight champion Tony Ferguson will return to the boxing ring to defend his Misfits Middleweight ***** le against former soccer player Kenzo Biyong on Sept. 26, 2026, inside James L. Knight Center in Miami, Florida.
Misfits Boxing announced the bizarre matchup this weekend. The five-round ***** le fight will stream live on DAZN.
Ferguson, 42, has found new life since departing UFC on the heels of a record-setting eight-fight losing streak. "El Cucuy" snapped his nearly six-year winless drought in Aug. 2025, stopping popular influencer Salt Papi in the third round of his Misfits debut (watch highlights).
Four months later, Ferguson dropped and defeated Warren Spencer via unanimous decision to capture the vacant Misfits Middleweight championship (highlights). He is now 2-0 as a boxer, and his showdown with Biyong will mark his first ***** le defense.
#biyong
Former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) interim Lightweight champion Tony Ferguson will return to the boxing ring to defend his Misfits Middleweight ***** le against former soccer player Kenzo Biyong on Sept. 26, 2026, inside James L. Knight Center in Miami, Florida.
Misfits Boxing announced the bizarre matchup this weekend. The five-round ***** le fight will stream live on DAZN.
Ferguson, 42, has found new life since departing UFC on the heels of a record-setting eight-fight losing streak. "El Cucuy" snapped his nearly six-year winless drought in Aug. 2025, stopping popular influencer Salt Papi in the third round of his Misfits debut (watch highlights).
Four months later, Ferguson dropped and defeated Warren Spencer via unanimous decision to capture the vacant Misfits Middleweight championship (highlights). He is now 2-0 as a boxer, and his showdown with Biyong will mark his first ***** le defense.
#biyong
2 months ago
BEEVILLE, Texas, Sept 4 (Reuters) - The makeup and toys on Valencia Macias' table are items people buy on impulse at discount stores. But on a sweltering summer day in South Texas, she is trying to sell them to turn them into gas money, grocery money, student loan money: any kind of money.
With three young children, a job as a medical ***** istant and nursing classes at night, the 26-year-old has little time for politics. But when Texas officials withdrew funding for the only after-school program available in her rural town of George West, politics became impossible to ignore.
Then, a TikTok video appeared: A Mexican American woman on the screen, Gina Hinojosa, talked about the high cost of living and badly needed investments in Texas public education. Macias stopped scrolling.
"With everything just getting so expensive and the gas and everything, it's really hard to just make do," Macias said. Seeing a mother and a woman who looks like her, Macias made up her mind: "100%, she has my vote."
Hinojosa, a Democratic state representative, is trying to end an electoral drought that has defined Texas politics for a generation: no Democrat has won statewide office in Texas since 1994.
#texas #woman
With three young children, a job as a medical ***** istant and nursing classes at night, the 26-year-old has little time for politics. But when Texas officials withdrew funding for the only after-school program available in her rural town of George West, politics became impossible to ignore.
Then, a TikTok video appeared: A Mexican American woman on the screen, Gina Hinojosa, talked about the high cost of living and badly needed investments in Texas public education. Macias stopped scrolling.
"With everything just getting so expensive and the gas and everything, it's really hard to just make do," Macias said. Seeing a mother and a woman who looks like her, Macias made up her mind: "100%, she has my vote."
Hinojosa, a Democratic state representative, is trying to end an electoral drought that has defined Texas politics for a generation: no Democrat has won statewide office in Texas since 1994.
#texas #woman
2 months ago
Twenty-one years ago, the White Sox swept the Astros in the World Series to end an 88-year championship drought, bringing baseball jubilation to the south side of Chicago. Occasional regular-season interleague series followed until 2013, when Houston made the move from the NL Central to the AL West, inviting the possibility that the two franchises could meet far more frequently in October. But that has occurred just once in the years since, with the Astros eliminating the White Sox in the 2021 ALDS en route to the pennant and sending the White Sox spiraling into a dark period for the franchise while Houston was in the middle of its golden era.
Five years later, the White Sox have emerged from their deep rebuild, and the Astros are desperately trying to keep their competitive window open. And in an ultra-weak American League (particularly outside the AL East), an unlikely race has surfaced between the White Sox and Astros, the current Central and West leaders, to claim the No. 2 seed and the valuable first-round bye that comes with it. As such, this week's four-game series at Daikin Park carried a ton of weight with October fast approaching. The Astros took advantage of the opportunity, taking three of four to close the gap with the White Sox to just 1.5 games.
Here are five takeaways from this week's series in H-Town.
Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL season
When a team moves on from a general manager, it's natural to reflect on their tenure and contemplate how the moves they did and didn't make impacted the trajectory of the organization. Without question, the most significant transaction recently fired GM Dana Brown executed during his three-plus years leading the Astros' front office was trading outfielder Kyle Tucker to the Cubs in exchange for three players: infielder Isaac Paredes, then-top prospect and recent first-round pick Cam Smith and right-hander Hayden Wesneski. While Brown experienced several other successes and missteps during his time as Houston's baseball ops leader, that trade — and how much these three players end up contributing to the Astros — will define his tenure.
#series #years
Five years later, the White Sox have emerged from their deep rebuild, and the Astros are desperately trying to keep their competitive window open. And in an ultra-weak American League (particularly outside the AL East), an unlikely race has surfaced between the White Sox and Astros, the current Central and West leaders, to claim the No. 2 seed and the valuable first-round bye that comes with it. As such, this week's four-game series at Daikin Park carried a ton of weight with October fast approaching. The Astros took advantage of the opportunity, taking three of four to close the gap with the White Sox to just 1.5 games.
Here are five takeaways from this week's series in H-Town.
Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL season
When a team moves on from a general manager, it's natural to reflect on their tenure and contemplate how the moves they did and didn't make impacted the trajectory of the organization. Without question, the most significant transaction recently fired GM Dana Brown executed during his three-plus years leading the Astros' front office was trading outfielder Kyle Tucker to the Cubs in exchange for three players: infielder Isaac Paredes, then-top prospect and recent first-round pick Cam Smith and right-hander Hayden Wesneski. While Brown experienced several other successes and missteps during his time as Houston's baseball ops leader, that trade — and how much these three players end up contributing to the Astros — will define his tenure.
#series #years
2 months ago
The Chicago Blackhawks are tired of losing. Tied for the third-longest active postseason drought in the NHL at six seasons, the Blackhawks are trying to prove that the rebuild is nearing completion and that they're ready to make big strides this year to become competitive.
With Connor Bedard absent until mid-November after undergoing shoulder surgery in July, this is the perfect time for other players to prove they can step up. If the Blackhawks want to jump back into the playoffs this season, the team's youth will have to be a big piece of the puzzle.
In the 2025-26 season, the Blackhawks were tied for the NHL's second-youngest team by average age. It's no secret that they have maintained one of the league's most talented prospect pools since the start of their rebuild. The team has finished in the top 10 of The Athletic's NHL prospect pool rankings list in each of the past four years.
Over the past two seasons, we have seen more and more of these prospects break into the NHL and ease into full-time spots on the Blackhawks' roster. The question is: who will make the biggest leap in their development and establish themselves in the league?
With training camp just around the corner, there are already a few potential breakout candidates for the Chicago Blackhawks.
#blackhawks #seasons #rebuild
With Connor Bedard absent until mid-November after undergoing shoulder surgery in July, this is the perfect time for other players to prove they can step up. If the Blackhawks want to jump back into the playoffs this season, the team's youth will have to be a big piece of the puzzle.
In the 2025-26 season, the Blackhawks were tied for the NHL's second-youngest team by average age. It's no secret that they have maintained one of the league's most talented prospect pools since the start of their rebuild. The team has finished in the top 10 of The Athletic's NHL prospect pool rankings list in each of the past four years.
Over the past two seasons, we have seen more and more of these prospects break into the NHL and ease into full-time spots on the Blackhawks' roster. The question is: who will make the biggest leap in their development and establish themselves in the league?
With training camp just around the corner, there are already a few potential breakout candidates for the Chicago Blackhawks.
#blackhawks #seasons #rebuild
2 months ago
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The Illini have sold out reserved lower bowl season tickets in consecutive years for the first time in program history. This comes in a period of resurgence under head coach Shauna Green, who will be heading into her fifth season with the orange and blue.
Under Green, the Illini have finally found their footing. After a 20-year NCAA Tournament drought, Green has led the Illini to three appearances in four years on top of notching three 20-win seasons. Illinois, who had one of the youngest teams in the nation last year, is poised for a breakthrough year, hoping to make it to the second weekend in March.
With incredible team and coaching performances, the Illini have seen a surge in attendance. Three of the top five home crowd attendance records have come under Green, including the third sellout matchup in program history against USC this past February. The total home attendance for the 2025-26 season neared 100,000, making the campaign the second-most successful in Illini women's basketball history.
The orange and blue have had fantastic performances at State Farm Center in Coach Green's tenure. In the past four seasons, the Illini are 51-15 in Champaign.
The Illini have also racked nine ranked wins with Green, five of which were at home, including a massive upset against No. 7 ranked Maryland in a New Year's Day 2026 showdown.
#season #home
Under Green, the Illini have finally found their footing. After a 20-year NCAA Tournament drought, Green has led the Illini to three appearances in four years on top of notching three 20-win seasons. Illinois, who had one of the youngest teams in the nation last year, is poised for a breakthrough year, hoping to make it to the second weekend in March.
With incredible team and coaching performances, the Illini have seen a surge in attendance. Three of the top five home crowd attendance records have come under Green, including the third sellout matchup in program history against USC this past February. The total home attendance for the 2025-26 season neared 100,000, making the campaign the second-most successful in Illini women's basketball history.
The orange and blue have had fantastic performances at State Farm Center in Coach Green's tenure. In the past four seasons, the Illini are 51-15 in Champaign.
The Illini have also racked nine ranked wins with Green, five of which were at home, including a massive upset against No. 7 ranked Maryland in a New Year's Day 2026 showdown.
#season #home
2 months ago
Riverwater Partners, an investment management company, released its 'Small Cap Strategy' Q2 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. The Small Cap Strategy underperformed the Russell 2000 in the second quarter as the benchmark experienced one of its strongest risk-on rallies in recent memory, although the strategy remained ahead year-to-date. The quarter was defined by accelerating AI investment, energy market disruptions, and renewed investor appetite for higher-beta stocks, creating headwinds for the firm's quality-focused approach and healthcare positioning. Despite this, stock selection contributed positively in energy, materials, and financials, while healthcare and consumer discretionary detracted due to the fund's disciplined avoidance of speculative businesses. Looking ahead, the firm remains cautiously optimistic, focusing on opportunities created by market dislocations, including AI infrastructure enablers, select consumer companies, healthcare innovators, and energy businesses trading below intrinsic value. The strategy continues to emphasize high-quality companies with strong management teams and attractive valuations, positioning the portfolio for a potential rotation away from speculative market leadership. In addition, please check the Strategy's top five holdings to know its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Riverwater Partners Small Cap Strategy highlighted Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII). Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII), a subsea engineering and offshore services company that serves the offshore energy, defense, aerospace, and manufacturing industries, was added to the portfolio in the quarter. On August 31, 2026, Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII) closed at $51.76 per share. The one-month return of Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII) was 2.64% and its shares gained 112.92% over the past 52 weeks. Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII) has a market capitalization of $5.15 billion.
Riverwater Partners Small Cap Strategy stated the following regarding Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Within energy, we repositioned toward services. We initiated Oceaneering International (OII), a leader in subsea robotics and offshore services, as offshore and subsea capital spending emerges from a seven-year drought and the U.S. rig count climbs; the position was funded in part by our exit of natural gas producer CNX Resources (CNX)."
#small #riverwater #investor #letter
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Riverwater Partners Small Cap Strategy highlighted Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII). Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII), a subsea engineering and offshore services company that serves the offshore energy, defense, aerospace, and manufacturing industries, was added to the portfolio in the quarter. On August 31, 2026, Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII) closed at $51.76 per share. The one-month return of Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII) was 2.64% and its shares gained 112.92% over the past 52 weeks. Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII) has a market capitalization of $5.15 billion.
Riverwater Partners Small Cap Strategy stated the following regarding Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE:OII) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Within energy, we repositioned toward services. We initiated Oceaneering International (OII), a leader in subsea robotics and offshore services, as offshore and subsea capital spending emerges from a seven-year drought and the U.S. rig count climbs; the position was funded in part by our exit of natural gas producer CNX Resources (CNX)."
#small #riverwater #investor #letter
2 months ago
The Green Bay Packers appear to have the talent needed to challenge for the Super Bowl, giving the franchise a real opportunity to end its lengthy championship drought. Green Bay has not reached the Super Bowl since its 2010 ******* le run, but expectations are high that this roster could finally put the team back on that stage.
The Packers reshaped their defense during the offseason, adding Zaire Franklin at linebacker and Javon Hargrave along the interior of the defensive line. Both additions give Green Bay more depth and experience as the team navigates Micah Parsons' absence while he continues to recover from an ACL injury.
Talk of Green Bay making a move for Arizona Cardinals linebacker Josh Sweat appears to be unfounded. Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst dismissed the trade speculation outright, according to The Athletic's Matt Schneidman.
Feb 24, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst speaks at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
"Somebody's making stuff up," remarked the Packers GM when he was addressing the media.
#super #gutekunst #general
The Packers reshaped their defense during the offseason, adding Zaire Franklin at linebacker and Javon Hargrave along the interior of the defensive line. Both additions give Green Bay more depth and experience as the team navigates Micah Parsons' absence while he continues to recover from an ACL injury.
Talk of Green Bay making a move for Arizona Cardinals linebacker Josh Sweat appears to be unfounded. Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst dismissed the trade speculation outright, according to The Athletic's Matt Schneidman.
Feb 24, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst speaks at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
"Somebody's making stuff up," remarked the Packers GM when he was addressing the media.
#super #gutekunst #general
2 months ago
Mark Trumbo grew up in Orange County during the peak of the Angels' existence. He was 16 when they won the 2002 World Series, and 17 when Arte Moreno bought the franchise from the Disney Corporation in May 2003.
In 2010, Trumbo made his debut with his hometown team. He played for two winning teams over the next four seasons, the waning years of the Angels' last run of success. They haven't had a winning record since 2015, and haven't reached the postseason since 2014 — the longest drought in MLB.
None of this was lost on Trumbo, who was traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks in December 2013 following a 34-homer, 100-RBI campaign.
MORE: 3 reasons why Stan Kroenke made the Angels MLB's first $4 billion team
Speaking about Moreno's sale of the franchise to Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, Trumbo said on Tuesday's episode of Halo Territory, "if this is the happiest you've ever made the fans, that's kind of a tough one.
#since
In 2010, Trumbo made his debut with his hometown team. He played for two winning teams over the next four seasons, the waning years of the Angels' last run of success. They haven't had a winning record since 2015, and haven't reached the postseason since 2014 — the longest drought in MLB.
None of this was lost on Trumbo, who was traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks in December 2013 following a 34-homer, 100-RBI campaign.
MORE: 3 reasons why Stan Kroenke made the Angels MLB's first $4 billion team
Speaking about Moreno's sale of the franchise to Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, Trumbo said on Tuesday's episode of Halo Territory, "if this is the happiest you've ever made the fans, that's kind of a tough one.
#since
2 months ago
The first week of action is in the books across the Schuylkill League. Below, you can find notes, key performances, and more from the week that was in the Schuylkill League.
Former Eagle Gavin Bartholomew makes Minnesota Vikings' 53-man roster
Schuylkill County's drought of having a player play in the NFL is no more.
Earlier this week, former Blue Mountain star Gavin Bartholomew made the Minnesota Vikings 53-man roster as one of four tight ends.
Bartholomew was a sixth round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft but missed his entire rookie season with the organization due to injury.
#schuylkill #week #Vikings
Former Eagle Gavin Bartholomew makes Minnesota Vikings' 53-man roster
Schuylkill County's drought of having a player play in the NFL is no more.
Earlier this week, former Blue Mountain star Gavin Bartholomew made the Minnesota Vikings 53-man roster as one of four tight ends.
Bartholomew was a sixth round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft but missed his entire rookie season with the organization due to injury.
#schuylkill #week #Vikings
2 months ago
Be warned: Novak Djokovic has made a fool of those who have doubted him before.
Some questioned if the Serb would challenge for the sport's top honours again after he dropped out of the world's top 20 amid a two-year major ***** le drought in 2018.
Djokovic proceeded to win four of the following five Grand Slams, doubling his tally of majors with 12 across the next six years.
But three years have now passed since he landed his men's record 24th major ***** le at the US Open.
And, as the 39-year-old fought back tears mid-match on Sunday night, this latest loss in New York felt different.
#djokovic #novak #slams
Some questioned if the Serb would challenge for the sport's top honours again after he dropped out of the world's top 20 amid a two-year major ***** le drought in 2018.
Djokovic proceeded to win four of the following five Grand Slams, doubling his tally of majors with 12 across the next six years.
But three years have now passed since he landed his men's record 24th major ***** le at the US Open.
And, as the 39-year-old fought back tears mid-match on Sunday night, this latest loss in New York felt different.
#djokovic #novak #slams
2 months ago
NEW YORK - At this point in a prolific season, Yordan Alvarez is contending with the standard he has set. For instance: Alvarez owns a .919 OPS in August, which is almost over. It's his second-lowest in a month this year. It would also rank fourth-highest among qualified hitters for the full season.
Alvarez snapped a 12-game stretch without a home run Saturday, in the Houston Astros' 6-2 loss to the Mets. His only longer drought this season preceded his last home run Aug. 14. He has two in his past 119 plate appearances. He still leads the American League with 37 and the majors with a 1.048 OPS.
Therein lies a conundrum Alvarez inherits. The Astros' inconsistent and top-heavy offense all but needs Alvarez to be otherworldly - and he regularly has. Saturday, their lineup managed four hits. Alvarez had two of them and drove in both of their runs. His .320 average is second among qualified MLB hitters.
But it would behoove ***** ody for Alvarez to compromise his abilities by overreaching in an attempt to carry the offense. Alvarez is too disciplined a hitter, anyway, and at times opponents do not even offer him the choice. That more consistency is needed from others to complement his exploits holds true.
Alvarez entered Saturday seeing 41.4% of pitches in the strike zone in August, his lowest rate in a month this season, per Baseball Savant. His chase rate was also his highest, by about 4%, perhaps reflecting the occasional attempt to make things happen for a sputtering offense at the season's critical stage.
#alvarez #astros #second #lowest
Alvarez snapped a 12-game stretch without a home run Saturday, in the Houston Astros' 6-2 loss to the Mets. His only longer drought this season preceded his last home run Aug. 14. He has two in his past 119 plate appearances. He still leads the American League with 37 and the majors with a 1.048 OPS.
Therein lies a conundrum Alvarez inherits. The Astros' inconsistent and top-heavy offense all but needs Alvarez to be otherworldly - and he regularly has. Saturday, their lineup managed four hits. Alvarez had two of them and drove in both of their runs. His .320 average is second among qualified MLB hitters.
But it would behoove ***** ody for Alvarez to compromise his abilities by overreaching in an attempt to carry the offense. Alvarez is too disciplined a hitter, anyway, and at times opponents do not even offer him the choice. That more consistency is needed from others to complement his exploits holds true.
Alvarez entered Saturday seeing 41.4% of pitches in the strike zone in August, his lowest rate in a month this season, per Baseball Savant. His chase rate was also his highest, by about 4%, perhaps reflecting the occasional attempt to make things happen for a sputtering offense at the season's critical stage.
#alvarez #astros #second #lowest
2 months ago
NOVI SAD, Serbia (AP) — Small boats stand idle on cracked ground in a shriveled side channel of the Danube River in northern Serbia, where the water has receded into a couple of shrinking ponds under pressure from extreme drought and heat. Fish circle in the shallow waters.
"This is all we have, these two little ponds that are full of juvenile fish," fisherman Dusan Jovanovic said. He said the fish are in danger because there is too little water and its temperature is over 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).
"If they start to die, they will all die at once," Jovanovic said.
Persistent drought and scorching heat this summer have ravaged ecosystems and businesses across the region, from a lake in Slovenia and the side channel of the Danube in Serbia, to fish farms in Bosnia, the Czech Republic, Romania and Hungary.
The fish industry has been hit especially hard, with damage estimated in the millions of euros (dollars). This is adding to the already high toll caused by problems with energy and water supplies, devastated crops, losses in river traffic and trade.
#serbia #ponds
"This is all we have, these two little ponds that are full of juvenile fish," fisherman Dusan Jovanovic said. He said the fish are in danger because there is too little water and its temperature is over 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).
"If they start to die, they will all die at once," Jovanovic said.
Persistent drought and scorching heat this summer have ravaged ecosystems and businesses across the region, from a lake in Slovenia and the side channel of the Danube in Serbia, to fish farms in Bosnia, the Czech Republic, Romania and Hungary.
The fish industry has been hit especially hard, with damage estimated in the millions of euros (dollars). This is adding to the already high toll caused by problems with energy and water supplies, devastated crops, losses in river traffic and trade.
#serbia #ponds
2 months ago
The Philadelphia 76ers will be a much different-looking team when they take the floor in October after the moves they made in the offseason. The Sixers were able to add two decorated players in Jaylen Brown and LeBron James in an effort to make life easier for Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid to get Philadelphia to the mountaintop of the league.
The Sixers have been the clear winners of the offseason with both Brown and James winning championships and finals MVP awards. That new star duo will look to help the Sixers end a long ******* le drought and give this team the boost it needs to finally get over the hump and end some long droughts in the playoffs, which has been noted plenty of times this offseason.
Jason Williams, who won a championship with the Miami Heat in 2006, gave his thoughts on the James-Brown duo for the Sixers as he believes they're the two best players for Philadelphia:
They're the best two players on that team. If LeBron James is in the league, he'll be number one on my list, every list, till I die. That's just what it is with me...You can never fix your mouth to say that Maxey is better than LeBron James, you can't.
As talented as James and Brown are, and they will certainly make a difference for the Sixers, it will likely come down to Maxey and Embiid as this is still their team. James and Brown are here to help them get the job done rather than the other way around. Williams makes a point, but the Sixers will need Maxey and Embiid to be great for this group to make the leap they need them to make in order to win that championship.
#sixers #maxey #lebron #offseason
The Sixers have been the clear winners of the offseason with both Brown and James winning championships and finals MVP awards. That new star duo will look to help the Sixers end a long ******* le drought and give this team the boost it needs to finally get over the hump and end some long droughts in the playoffs, which has been noted plenty of times this offseason.
Jason Williams, who won a championship with the Miami Heat in 2006, gave his thoughts on the James-Brown duo for the Sixers as he believes they're the two best players for Philadelphia:
They're the best two players on that team. If LeBron James is in the league, he'll be number one on my list, every list, till I die. That's just what it is with me...You can never fix your mouth to say that Maxey is better than LeBron James, you can't.
As talented as James and Brown are, and they will certainly make a difference for the Sixers, it will likely come down to Maxey and Embiid as this is still their team. James and Brown are here to help them get the job done rather than the other way around. Williams makes a point, but the Sixers will need Maxey and Embiid to be great for this group to make the leap they need them to make in order to win that championship.
#sixers #maxey #lebron #offseason
2 months ago
Yankees' Aaron Boone gets questionable job status update amid hot-seat rumor originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New York Yankees have had Aaron Boone as their manager for nine seasons. While they've been a good team for most of those seasons, including a World Series appearance in 2024, they've not won a ***** le since his hiring.
For a storied franchise like the Yankees, this current drought without a ***** le since 2009 is a notable stretch without another World Series championship. Boone is trying to fix that this season. But what if the Yankees are bounced in the postseason again?
Karl Rasmussen of Sports Illustrated shared a hot-seat rumor about Boone that revealed the Yankees and Brian Cashman could finally run out of patience and move on from Boone if the 2026 season result isn't good enough.
"He's been given a long leash by Brian Cashman and the rest of the front office, but patience may run out if the Yankees don't make a deep postseason run this year," Rasmussen writes.
#cashman #seat
The New York Yankees have had Aaron Boone as their manager for nine seasons. While they've been a good team for most of those seasons, including a World Series appearance in 2024, they've not won a ***** le since his hiring.
For a storied franchise like the Yankees, this current drought without a ***** le since 2009 is a notable stretch without another World Series championship. Boone is trying to fix that this season. But what if the Yankees are bounced in the postseason again?
Karl Rasmussen of Sports Illustrated shared a hot-seat rumor about Boone that revealed the Yankees and Brian Cashman could finally run out of patience and move on from Boone if the 2026 season result isn't good enough.
"He's been given a long leash by Brian Cashman and the rest of the front office, but patience may run out if the Yankees don't make a deep postseason run this year," Rasmussen writes.
#cashman #seat
2 months ago
Esmerlyn Valdez finally found one. After 24 games without a home run, Valdez turned on a 90 mph fastball from Robbie Ray on Monday night and sent it 413 feet into the left-center-field seats at Petco Park. The ball left his bat at 111.6 mph, giving Pittsburgh its first run in 22 innings and ending the longest power drought of Valdez's young major-league career. It was the kind of swing that made him look like one of baseball's most terrifying rookies earlier this summer. It was also a reminder of why the Pirates cannot let the month that came before scare them away.
Valdez's first exposure to the majors looked almost unfair. Then pitchers adjusted, the strikeouts piled up, and the home runs vanished. That is not evidence that Pittsburgh was fooled by a hot start. It is the part of a rookie season where the league hands back the test with different questions. Now Valdez gets to answer them.
Jul 20, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder Esmerlyn Valdez (55) hits a two-run home run during the third inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Pittsburgh desperately needed somebody to do something Monday. The Pirates had gone 22 consecutive innings without scoring, matching their longest drought of the season, before Valdez stepped to the plate in the sixth inning. His slump-breaking homer did more than remove a zero from the scoreboard. It provided the first sign in weeks of the devastating power that defined his arrival.
Rafael Flores followed with an RBI double later in the inning, and Nick Gonzales eventually delivered the winning hit in the 12th as Pittsburgh escaped with a 3-2 victory. The game mattered for a team clinging to distant postseason hopes, but Valdez's swing may have mattered more for what Pittsburgh needs to learn over the final month. The Pirates already know Valdez can punish a mistake. They need to find out what happens after the league stops making as many of them. Monday's homer was his 15th despite having only 205 at-bats this season.
#pirates #first #season
Valdez's first exposure to the majors looked almost unfair. Then pitchers adjusted, the strikeouts piled up, and the home runs vanished. That is not evidence that Pittsburgh was fooled by a hot start. It is the part of a rookie season where the league hands back the test with different questions. Now Valdez gets to answer them.
Jul 20, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder Esmerlyn Valdez (55) hits a two-run home run during the third inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Pittsburgh desperately needed somebody to do something Monday. The Pirates had gone 22 consecutive innings without scoring, matching their longest drought of the season, before Valdez stepped to the plate in the sixth inning. His slump-breaking homer did more than remove a zero from the scoreboard. It provided the first sign in weeks of the devastating power that defined his arrival.
Rafael Flores followed with an RBI double later in the inning, and Nick Gonzales eventually delivered the winning hit in the 12th as Pittsburgh escaped with a 3-2 victory. The game mattered for a team clinging to distant postseason hopes, but Valdez's swing may have mattered more for what Pittsburgh needs to learn over the final month. The Pirates already know Valdez can punish a mistake. They need to find out what happens after the league stops making as many of them. Monday's homer was his 15th despite having only 205 at-bats this season.
#pirates #first #season
2 months ago
An old-fashioned pitcher's duel is unfolding in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, as Bayonne's Jett Bridges and West Side Ohio's Boone Treadway battle through the early innings.
With both teams facing elimination from the Little League World Series, neither side has been able to break through in a scoreless game Tuesday at Lamade Stadium.
Treadway has dominated with six strikeouts through three innings, while Bridges has matched him nearly pitch for pitch, recording five punchouts of his own.
AJ Tapia recorded Bayonne's first hit of the game with a two-out single in the second inning. The hit snapped a lengthy drought for the Bees, who had not recorded a hit since the third inning of Sunday's 6-0 loss to Davenport Northwest (Midwest) in Game 3.
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Bayonne locked in tight battle with Ohio in LLWS elimination game
#bridges #side #innings #elimination
With both teams facing elimination from the Little League World Series, neither side has been able to break through in a scoreless game Tuesday at Lamade Stadium.
Treadway has dominated with six strikeouts through three innings, while Bridges has matched him nearly pitch for pitch, recording five punchouts of his own.
AJ Tapia recorded Bayonne's first hit of the game with a two-out single in the second inning. The hit snapped a lengthy drought for the Bees, who had not recorded a hit since the third inning of Sunday's 6-0 loss to Davenport Northwest (Midwest) in Game 3.
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Bayonne locked in tight battle with Ohio in LLWS elimination game
#bridges #side #innings #elimination
