1 hr. 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
1 hr. ago
The NFLPA's P.R. push for grass fields should focus less on making a broad-brush effort to shame the owners into choosing a better surface and more on getting specific teams to flip. That effort, as previously explained, should start with the Seahawks, who are in the process of getting a new owner.
On Tuesday, a pair of Seattle veterans made the case for grass during training-camp press conferences.
Defensive lineman Leonard Williams was asked whether seeing temporary grass at Lumen Field for the World Cup made him wish the grass would remain permanently.
"For sure," Williams told reporters, "I think the whole NFL felt that way. We obviously prefer to be on grass. It's less impact, better on the body. I understand there's a lot of things that go into having grass in the stadium that I don't fully understand yet, but if it was up to a player and it just came down to grass or turf, we obviously prefer grass."
Receiver Cooper Kupp was initially more concise. "That would be sweet," he said with a laugh.
#obviously #understand
On Tuesday, a pair of Seattle veterans made the case for grass during training-camp press conferences.
Defensive lineman Leonard Williams was asked whether seeing temporary grass at Lumen Field for the World Cup made him wish the grass would remain permanently.
"For sure," Williams told reporters, "I think the whole NFL felt that way. We obviously prefer to be on grass. It's less impact, better on the body. I understand there's a lot of things that go into having grass in the stadium that I don't fully understand yet, but if it was up to a player and it just came down to grass or turf, we obviously prefer grass."
Receiver Cooper Kupp was initially more concise. "That would be sweet," he said with a laugh.
#obviously #understand
2 hours ago
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — San Francisco Giants infielder Casey Schmitt was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday with a torn meniscus in his left knee.
Schmitt, the Giants' breakout star this season, was injured while trying to stop after taking a sharp turn around first base during Monday night's 3-0 win over the Milwaukee Brewers.
Initial tests were inconclusive, but Schmitt underwent an MRI before Tuesday night's game that revealed the extent of the injury. No timetable has been set for his return.
"Hasn't been dictated yet," Giants manager Tony Vitello said. "He's back there doing what he can. Still in the early stages of knowing exactly what will happen, but obviously he's going to miss a good chunk of time."
The 27-year-old Schmitt has been one of San Francisco's best players this season while filling several positions in the infield and outfield. He is batting .271 with a .784 OPS and has already set career highs for homers (21), RBIs (55), runs (47) and hits (105).
#Giants #brewers
Schmitt, the Giants' breakout star this season, was injured while trying to stop after taking a sharp turn around first base during Monday night's 3-0 win over the Milwaukee Brewers.
Initial tests were inconclusive, but Schmitt underwent an MRI before Tuesday night's game that revealed the extent of the injury. No timetable has been set for his return.
"Hasn't been dictated yet," Giants manager Tony Vitello said. "He's back there doing what he can. Still in the early stages of knowing exactly what will happen, but obviously he's going to miss a good chunk of time."
The 27-year-old Schmitt has been one of San Francisco's best players this season while filling several positions in the infield and outfield. He is batting .271 with a .784 OPS and has already set career highs for homers (21), RBIs (55), runs (47) and hits (105).
#Giants #brewers
2 hours ago
Add one bizarre injury to the San Francisco Giants season.
Harrison Bader was headed to Indianapolis to meet with a foot and ankle specialist for his left plantar fasciitis that sidelined him for two months on Monday, but ran into a bit of trouble late-Saturday, early-Sunday morning.
Bader, 32, was involved in a scooter accident in San Francisco, the team announced, which further injured the outfielder's sore left foot. He will have an MRI "to better understand the severity of the injuries sustained from the scooter accident," the Giants said.
Bader still made it to Indianapolis to meet the specialist on Monday, but the accident complicated the meeting.
"Reached out to him, asked him if he was OK. Obviously he's not better than he was prior to that," manager Tony Vitello said. "It's going to delay the recovery process for him, but even prior to it, you're looking at a pretty frustrating long runway."
#francisco
Harrison Bader was headed to Indianapolis to meet with a foot and ankle specialist for his left plantar fasciitis that sidelined him for two months on Monday, but ran into a bit of trouble late-Saturday, early-Sunday morning.
Bader, 32, was involved in a scooter accident in San Francisco, the team announced, which further injured the outfielder's sore left foot. He will have an MRI "to better understand the severity of the injuries sustained from the scooter accident," the Giants said.
Bader still made it to Indianapolis to meet the specialist on Monday, but the accident complicated the meeting.
"Reached out to him, asked him if he was OK. Obviously he's not better than he was prior to that," manager Tony Vitello said. "It's going to delay the recovery process for him, but even prior to it, you're looking at a pretty frustrating long runway."
#francisco
7 hours ago
When the Rams announced that guard Justin Dedich would open training camp on the non-football injury list, they did not reveal the nature of that injury. Today they explained it.
Rams head coach Sean McVay said Justin Dedich "had a hand accident around the Fourth of July, and so that's kind of what's keeping him out for now."
McVay didn't specifically mention fireworks, but that's the obvious conclusion people will draw from a July 4 hand accident.
During Fourth of July weekend in 2015, two different NFL players lost fingers in fireworks accidents. Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul's injury caused him to miss half that season, although he had a long career after that, including being a Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion in Tampa Bay in 2020. Buccaneers cornerback C.J. Wilson also suffered a serious hand injury at Fourth of July 2015 and never played again.
There's been no word on the severity of Dedich's injury.
#dedich
Rams head coach Sean McVay said Justin Dedich "had a hand accident around the Fourth of July, and so that's kind of what's keeping him out for now."
McVay didn't specifically mention fireworks, but that's the obvious conclusion people will draw from a July 4 hand accident.
During Fourth of July weekend in 2015, two different NFL players lost fingers in fireworks accidents. Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul's injury caused him to miss half that season, although he had a long career after that, including being a Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion in Tampa Bay in 2020. Buccaneers cornerback C.J. Wilson also suffered a serious hand injury at Fourth of July 2015 and never played again.
There's been no word on the severity of Dedich's injury.
#dedich
7 hours ago
With the Major League Baseball trade deadline coming up Aug. 3, the Milwaukee Brewers are sitting in an obvious playoff spot, have a loaded farm system and would theoretically be players for some of the top names seemingly available on the trade market.
But can we really expect 2026 to look different from other trade deadlines?
Count Mark Feinsand of MLB.com among those who believe the Brewers will indeed be "aggressive" at the deadline, but what does that look like?
ESPN writer Jeff Passan put together "10 blockbuster deals that would rock the trade deadline" and arranged two deals involving a superstar going to Milwaukee. They would certainly count as aggressive.
Passan first proposed a deal that sends Detroit Tigers star left-hander Tarik Skubal to the Brewers for right-hander Logan Henderson, left fielder Josh Adamczewski and infielder Ricki Moneys. The latter two are among the more intriguing prospects in the Brewers organization, and Henderson is just graduating from prospect status into reliable major-league starter.
#henderson
But can we really expect 2026 to look different from other trade deadlines?
Count Mark Feinsand of MLB.com among those who believe the Brewers will indeed be "aggressive" at the deadline, but what does that look like?
ESPN writer Jeff Passan put together "10 blockbuster deals that would rock the trade deadline" and arranged two deals involving a superstar going to Milwaukee. They would certainly count as aggressive.
Passan first proposed a deal that sends Detroit Tigers star left-hander Tarik Skubal to the Brewers for right-hander Logan Henderson, left fielder Josh Adamczewski and infielder Ricki Moneys. The latter two are among the more intriguing prospects in the Brewers organization, and Henderson is just graduating from prospect status into reliable major-league starter.
#henderson
7 hours ago
Detroit — As of right this minute, manager AJ Hinch has every intention of sending Tarik Skubal to the mound Wednesday for his scheduled start in the finale against the Orioles.
Trade deadline rumors be ****** ed.
"We're trying to win the series so it puts us in a better position to be a playoff team," Hinch said. "The information I have is, win the series. We obviously need to win tonight (Tuesday) to put us in that position. But I fully expect him to start."
More: Tigers activate Javier Báez, DFA Jake Rogers
Skubal, who is coming off a 12-strikeout performance against the Royals, fully expects the same thing.
#orioles
Trade deadline rumors be ****** ed.
"We're trying to win the series so it puts us in a better position to be a playoff team," Hinch said. "The information I have is, win the series. We obviously need to win tonight (Tuesday) to put us in that position. But I fully expect him to start."
More: Tigers activate Javier Báez, DFA Jake Rogers
Skubal, who is coming off a 12-strikeout performance against the Royals, fully expects the same thing.
#orioles
8 hours ago
Lets's call him INTREPID. My guy in the gym in the Bahamas.
That was the code name for the head of British Intelligence in the Caribbean during WWII.
All observations are obviously his, phoned in to your intrepid chronicler within minutes of the final buzzer of U of L's 101-52 thrashing of "Bahamas."
"The Bahamian team was pretty good."
"I was really impressed with Isaac Ellis. He was a pest on defense. Clogged up the passing lanes. Lots of deflections."
#wwii #bahamian #clogged
That was the code name for the head of British Intelligence in the Caribbean during WWII.
All observations are obviously his, phoned in to your intrepid chronicler within minutes of the final buzzer of U of L's 101-52 thrashing of "Bahamas."
"The Bahamian team was pretty good."
"I was really impressed with Isaac Ellis. He was a pest on defense. Clogged up the passing lanes. Lots of deflections."
#wwii #bahamian #clogged
9 hours ago
The latest Brotherhood Podcast is out, and this time, Cayden Boozer interviews new ***** istant KJ Conklin.
He talks about his path to Duke, which includes some interesting stops before he got to the San Antonio Spurs, where he worked as ***** istant coach and director of player development for the Austin Spurs, their NBA G League affiliate. Here's a bit of what he had to say about his path and what he's learned:
"I think every, I think the biggest lesson I've learned is is everywhere I've went, I've made very meaningful relationships. And most of all, and it's what I really appreciate about this place is the people make the place.
I mean, we obviously here, we're extremely fortunate with the things we get on the day to day. And then we get to, I've experienced a lot of things as a part of the Duke brand and the standard that we have here. But the people and the meaningful relationships that you make along the way is what you remember the most."
You can hit the links above or below, or catch it on your favorite podcast player.
Go to the DBR Boards to find Blue Healer Auctions || Drop us a line
#i 've #podcast #path
He talks about his path to Duke, which includes some interesting stops before he got to the San Antonio Spurs, where he worked as ***** istant coach and director of player development for the Austin Spurs, their NBA G League affiliate. Here's a bit of what he had to say about his path and what he's learned:
"I think every, I think the biggest lesson I've learned is is everywhere I've went, I've made very meaningful relationships. And most of all, and it's what I really appreciate about this place is the people make the place.
I mean, we obviously here, we're extremely fortunate with the things we get on the day to day. And then we get to, I've experienced a lot of things as a part of the Duke brand and the standard that we have here. But the people and the meaningful relationships that you make along the way is what you remember the most."
You can hit the links above or below, or catch it on your favorite podcast player.
Go to the DBR Boards to find Blue Healer Auctions || Drop us a line
#i 've #podcast #path
9 hours ago
The Philadelphia Eagles took a massive step back last season. From winning the Super Bowl to bowing out in the Wild Card Round of the playoffs, the letdown was massive for the entire team. Given the state of the offense, a lot of the blame fell directly on Jalen Hurts.
Despite his resume, the dual-threat quarterback has been the subject of a ton of criticism. With some obvious flaws in his game, many believe this could be a make-or-break year for him. However, a franchise icon still remains one of his staunchest supporters.
Hurts' resume is hard to match. A three-time Pro Bowler, who finished in the top two in MVP once, the Eagles star has a lot of upsides to his game. Since he became the season-long starter in 2021, the team has never missed the playoffs.
But this past year, the negatives were more ****** ounced than ever. With wide receiver A.J. Brown shouting from the rooftops about the state of the offense, the blame fell squarely on Hurts as they ranked near the bottom of the league in three-and-out possessions.
LeSean McCoy, though, still believes Hurts can be the answer for the Eagles. During the latest episode of "Speakeasy," he offered a comprehensive defense of the three-time Pro Bowler, even comparing him to another elite quarterback, Joe Burrow.
#three #massive #playoffs #offense
Despite his resume, the dual-threat quarterback has been the subject of a ton of criticism. With some obvious flaws in his game, many believe this could be a make-or-break year for him. However, a franchise icon still remains one of his staunchest supporters.
Hurts' resume is hard to match. A three-time Pro Bowler, who finished in the top two in MVP once, the Eagles star has a lot of upsides to his game. Since he became the season-long starter in 2021, the team has never missed the playoffs.
But this past year, the negatives were more ****** ounced than ever. With wide receiver A.J. Brown shouting from the rooftops about the state of the offense, the blame fell squarely on Hurts as they ranked near the bottom of the league in three-and-out possessions.
LeSean McCoy, though, still believes Hurts can be the answer for the Eagles. During the latest episode of "Speakeasy," he offered a comprehensive defense of the three-time Pro Bowler, even comparing him to another elite quarterback, Joe Burrow.
#three #massive #playoffs #offense
10 hours ago
The Dallas Cowboys held their annual press conference to start training camp on Tuesday, and the idea of the offseason being free of drama came up a lot at the beginning.
Jerry Jones noted that he liked that perception and then matters turned to what lies ahead instead of what is in the rearview mirror. In a very non-Jerry way, the team's owner, president, and general manager was expressing such confidence in the group set to start out in Oxnard by saying that he would be willing to risk future ****** ets in the name of helping them.
Obviously that is a hint that Jones could orchestrate a trade to help the Cowboys. In fact, he said that he specifically spoke to an NFL team about "something" on Monday. It is worth noting that on Monday it was reported that Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea requested a trade. That could just be coincidence, though.
As this conversation was going on, Jerry was asked why he and the team moved on from the Maxx Crosby situation after Crosby's trade from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Baltimore Ravens fell through. He thought long and hard and then was pretty pointed.
"We didn't. We did not walk away."
#jerry #cowboys #tuesday #oxnard
Jerry Jones noted that he liked that perception and then matters turned to what lies ahead instead of what is in the rearview mirror. In a very non-Jerry way, the team's owner, president, and general manager was expressing such confidence in the group set to start out in Oxnard by saying that he would be willing to risk future ****** ets in the name of helping them.
Obviously that is a hint that Jones could orchestrate a trade to help the Cowboys. In fact, he said that he specifically spoke to an NFL team about "something" on Monday. It is worth noting that on Monday it was reported that Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea requested a trade. That could just be coincidence, though.
As this conversation was going on, Jerry was asked why he and the team moved on from the Maxx Crosby situation after Crosby's trade from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Baltimore Ravens fell through. He thought long and hard and then was pretty pointed.
"We didn't. We did not walk away."
#jerry #cowboys #tuesday #oxnard
10 hours ago
When it comes to Chicago Bears cornerback Kyler Gordon, the one word that encapsulates his current injury situation is "frustration."
Gordon, a former second-round pick, was hampered by soft tissue injuries last season, playing in just three regular-season games with two stints on injured reserve. After playing in two postseason games, the arrow was pointed up for Gordon, who's elevated the defense when he's on the field.
But Gordon suffered yet another soft tissue injury -- a calf injury, as confirmed by general manager Ryan Poles -- that held him out of the offseason program and has him on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list to start training camp. There's also no current timetable for his return.
"Obviously, he's frustrated," Poles said Tuesday. "We're frustrated. Everybody here is putting their time and effort into getting him back."
Head coach Ben Johnson hasn't been shy when it comes to voicing his frustration with Gordon, making it clear that his lack of availability has been a problem. On report day, Johnson had a message to Gordon as he starts the summer injured.
#soft #season
Gordon, a former second-round pick, was hampered by soft tissue injuries last season, playing in just three regular-season games with two stints on injured reserve. After playing in two postseason games, the arrow was pointed up for Gordon, who's elevated the defense when he's on the field.
But Gordon suffered yet another soft tissue injury -- a calf injury, as confirmed by general manager Ryan Poles -- that held him out of the offseason program and has him on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list to start training camp. There's also no current timetable for his return.
"Obviously, he's frustrated," Poles said Tuesday. "We're frustrated. Everybody here is putting their time and effort into getting him back."
Head coach Ben Johnson hasn't been shy when it comes to voicing his frustration with Gordon, making it clear that his lack of availability has been a problem. On report day, Johnson had a message to Gordon as he starts the summer injured.
#soft #season
11 hours ago
A message of gratitude earned Oprah Winfrey a special gift from Queen Bey.
She told the story on the Are You Okay? web series, explaining how it all happened.
"I went to the Beyoncé Renaissance concert," Winfrey said in a clip posted to social media Monday. "I was so blown away. I wrote her a fan letter. She obviously liked the fan letter because she then sent me one of the hats from Renaissance. Beyoncé sent me a hat!"
She continued, breaking into a dance, "I sent her a letter and she sent me a hat! I sent her a letter and she sent me a hat!"
Oprah previously praised Beyoncé's Renaissance show on Instagram, writing alongside a clip of Bey onstage, "I have never in my life experienced something as transcendent as beyonce's Renaissance Tour."
#okay
She told the story on the Are You Okay? web series, explaining how it all happened.
"I went to the Beyoncé Renaissance concert," Winfrey said in a clip posted to social media Monday. "I was so blown away. I wrote her a fan letter. She obviously liked the fan letter because she then sent me one of the hats from Renaissance. Beyoncé sent me a hat!"
She continued, breaking into a dance, "I sent her a letter and she sent me a hat! I sent her a letter and she sent me a hat!"
Oprah previously praised Beyoncé's Renaissance show on Instagram, writing alongside a clip of Bey onstage, "I have never in my life experienced something as transcendent as beyonce's Renaissance Tour."
#okay
11 hours ago
Giannis Antetokounmpo trade didn't fix everything for the Heat originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Few deals were bigger than the Miami Heat bringing Giannis Antetokounmpo to town. What a blockbuster move. The Heat obviously mean business for the coming season, and they've instantly become a real contender with Antetokounmpo in the fold.
Antetokounmpo was a statement move. It instantly took the Heat up several notches in early power rankings. But, time will tell if Antetokounmpo can lead this team to the championship. The Heat certainly have a better chance now.
But, the Heat aren't favorites quite yet. They're still behind a handful of NBA teams, and there's one question for Miami that really stands out.
John Schuhmann of the NBA's official website has unleashed his offseason power rankings for 2026. In it, he has the Heat at No. 8. The big question he asks is if they have enough in the backcourt.
#instantly #rankings
Few deals were bigger than the Miami Heat bringing Giannis Antetokounmpo to town. What a blockbuster move. The Heat obviously mean business for the coming season, and they've instantly become a real contender with Antetokounmpo in the fold.
Antetokounmpo was a statement move. It instantly took the Heat up several notches in early power rankings. But, time will tell if Antetokounmpo can lead this team to the championship. The Heat certainly have a better chance now.
But, the Heat aren't favorites quite yet. They're still behind a handful of NBA teams, and there's one question for Miami that really stands out.
John Schuhmann of the NBA's official website has unleashed his offseason power rankings for 2026. In it, he has the Heat at No. 8. The big question he asks is if they have enough in the backcourt.
#instantly #rankings
12 hours ago
Demolition derbies are all about the destruction, but a crash in Ohio resulted in one driver being airlifted to the hospital as well as a lifetime ban for the other driver involved.
The crash happened at the Fayette County Fairgrounds, roughly halfway between Cincinnati and Columbus, on Saturday, July 25. The Washington Court House Record Herald reports that driver Hunter Wolf of Lynchburg, Ohio, delivered a direct hit to the driver-side door of a competitor, causing serious injuries to that driver.
Emergency crews extricated the victim from his vehicle and established a landing zone at the fairgrounds for a medical helicopter due to the severity of the driver's injuries. The Record Herald reports that the victim has not been identified and the extent of the injuries are not known.
Derbydog Inc., which organized the demolition derby, issued a lifetime ban to Wolf on Monday, July 27, according to a statement posted to Facebook by owners Jeremy and Frances Hejduk.
"While we can't absolutely know the intentions of every driver, the obvious nature of the direct driver's door hit by Hunter Wolf proves he has absolutely no concern for safety for fellow drivers," the Hejduks said in the statement. "This type of behavior will not be tolerated by Derbydog."
#driver #hunter #derbydog #demolition
The crash happened at the Fayette County Fairgrounds, roughly halfway between Cincinnati and Columbus, on Saturday, July 25. The Washington Court House Record Herald reports that driver Hunter Wolf of Lynchburg, Ohio, delivered a direct hit to the driver-side door of a competitor, causing serious injuries to that driver.
Emergency crews extricated the victim from his vehicle and established a landing zone at the fairgrounds for a medical helicopter due to the severity of the driver's injuries. The Record Herald reports that the victim has not been identified and the extent of the injuries are not known.
Derbydog Inc., which organized the demolition derby, issued a lifetime ban to Wolf on Monday, July 27, according to a statement posted to Facebook by owners Jeremy and Frances Hejduk.
"While we can't absolutely know the intentions of every driver, the obvious nature of the direct driver's door hit by Hunter Wolf proves he has absolutely no concern for safety for fellow drivers," the Hejduks said in the statement. "This type of behavior will not be tolerated by Derbydog."
#driver #hunter #derbydog #demolition
12 hours ago
Demolition derbies are all about the destruction, but a crash in Ohio resulted in one driver being airlifted to the hospital as well as a lifetime ban for the other driver involved.
The crash happened at the Fayette County Fairgrounds, roughly halfway between Cincinnati and Columbus, on Saturday, July 25. The Washington Court House Record Herald reports that driver Hunter Wolf of Lynchburg, Ohio, delivered a direct hit to the driver-side door of a competitor, causing serious injuries to that driver.
Emergency crews extricated the victim from his vehicle and established a landing zone at the fairgrounds for a medical helicopter due to the severity of the driver's injuries. The Record Herald reports that the victim has not been identified and the extent of the injuries are not known.
Derbydog Inc., which organized the demolition derby, issued a lifetime ban to Wolf on Monday, July 27, according to a statement posted to Facebook by owners Jeremy and Frances Hejduk.
"While we can't absolutely know the intentions of every driver, the obvious nature of the direct driver's door hit by Hunter Wolf proves he has absolutely no concern for safety for fellow drivers," the Hejduks said in the statement. "This type of behavior will not be tolerated by Derbydog."
#hunter
The crash happened at the Fayette County Fairgrounds, roughly halfway between Cincinnati and Columbus, on Saturday, July 25. The Washington Court House Record Herald reports that driver Hunter Wolf of Lynchburg, Ohio, delivered a direct hit to the driver-side door of a competitor, causing serious injuries to that driver.
Emergency crews extricated the victim from his vehicle and established a landing zone at the fairgrounds for a medical helicopter due to the severity of the driver's injuries. The Record Herald reports that the victim has not been identified and the extent of the injuries are not known.
Derbydog Inc., which organized the demolition derby, issued a lifetime ban to Wolf on Monday, July 27, according to a statement posted to Facebook by owners Jeremy and Frances Hejduk.
"While we can't absolutely know the intentions of every driver, the obvious nature of the direct driver's door hit by Hunter Wolf proves he has absolutely no concern for safety for fellow drivers," the Hejduks said in the statement. "This type of behavior will not be tolerated by Derbydog."
#hunter
15 hours ago
Even though the pads aren't on yet, the competition in training camp is heating up. The Los Angeles Rams held their second practice at LMU on Monday and a handful of players stood out in a positive way – including two young guys who are trying to make their mark on the 53-man roster.
Based on reports from camp, here are four players who performed well in Monday's practice.
The Rams traded up for Daniels in the sixth round of the draft this year and they may have found their latest Day 3 gem. The former Miami receiver drew high praise from reporters in attendance, as well as his head coach Sean McVay. Stu Jackson of TheRams.com noted that Daniels "caught just about every target thrown his way on Monday" while working with the second-team offense.
McVay said Daniels has "done a good job and called him a "mature rookie" with a "no-nonsense mentality." And with guys like Puka Nacua and Davante Adams to learn from, McVay likes the potential of the rookie wideout.
"So it's a great group, but I'm excited about CJ and he'll be another guy when you talk about the importance of the preseason, he'll be a guy I'm looking forward to watching play and obviously in these practice settings as well," McVay said.
#well #camp #players #guys
Based on reports from camp, here are four players who performed well in Monday's practice.
The Rams traded up for Daniels in the sixth round of the draft this year and they may have found their latest Day 3 gem. The former Miami receiver drew high praise from reporters in attendance, as well as his head coach Sean McVay. Stu Jackson of TheRams.com noted that Daniels "caught just about every target thrown his way on Monday" while working with the second-team offense.
McVay said Daniels has "done a good job and called him a "mature rookie" with a "no-nonsense mentality." And with guys like Puka Nacua and Davante Adams to learn from, McVay likes the potential of the rookie wideout.
"So it's a great group, but I'm excited about CJ and he'll be another guy when you talk about the importance of the preseason, he'll be a guy I'm looking forward to watching play and obviously in these practice settings as well," McVay said.
#well #camp #players #guys
16 hours ago
Raiders' Fernando Mendoza unveils true feelings on getting invaluable Tom Brady mentorship originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Tom Brady has skin in the game when it comes to the Super Bowl race once again. He used to root for the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers but that was only because his legacy in those areas preceded him. This time around, he is confidently rooting for and actively trying to help the Las Vegas Raiders win the Super Bowl. The first step? Mentoring the former Indiana Hoosiers star and 2026 NFL first overall pick, Fernando Mendoza.
A lot of pressure is on the shoulders of Fernando Mendoza. After a five-year drought, he became the first player to win the Heisman Trophy while also nabbing the College Football Playoff National Championship. Mendoza also led the greatest program turnaround during his stay with the Indiana Hoosiers. Now, he also has Tom Brady giving him advice as he navigates the NFL as the Raiders' new quarterback.
Obviously, all of this can be a lot for the Raiders' rookie quarterback. But, the mentorship with Brady seems to be helping Mendoza a lot. He even discussed his feelings when it came to his newfound relationship, via Grant Gordon of NFL.com.
"It's surreal. However, you know, he's been such a great resource and he's been, from a young age, he's been a big idol of mine and then now it's, OK, Tom is a human being. Yes, he's an exceptional human being, but he's a human being. So, take what you can, learn from him, and make sure that you value that relationship, rather than looking at him with googly eyes every second," the Raiders quarterback declared.
#super
Tom Brady has skin in the game when it comes to the Super Bowl race once again. He used to root for the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers but that was only because his legacy in those areas preceded him. This time around, he is confidently rooting for and actively trying to help the Las Vegas Raiders win the Super Bowl. The first step? Mentoring the former Indiana Hoosiers star and 2026 NFL first overall pick, Fernando Mendoza.
A lot of pressure is on the shoulders of Fernando Mendoza. After a five-year drought, he became the first player to win the Heisman Trophy while also nabbing the College Football Playoff National Championship. Mendoza also led the greatest program turnaround during his stay with the Indiana Hoosiers. Now, he also has Tom Brady giving him advice as he navigates the NFL as the Raiders' new quarterback.
Obviously, all of this can be a lot for the Raiders' rookie quarterback. But, the mentorship with Brady seems to be helping Mendoza a lot. He even discussed his feelings when it came to his newfound relationship, via Grant Gordon of NFL.com.
"It's surreal. However, you know, he's been such a great resource and he's been, from a young age, he's been a big idol of mine and then now it's, OK, Tom is a human being. Yes, he's an exceptional human being, but he's a human being. So, take what you can, learn from him, and make sure that you value that relationship, rather than looking at him with googly eyes every second," the Raiders quarterback declared.
#super
16 hours ago
Myles Garrett is obviously the headliner of the Los Angeles Rams' pass rush, but Byron Young is a crucial part of the defense, too. Entering a contract year, Young is looking to get even better in 2026 after making the Pro Bowl for the first time last season.
Unfortunately, he's not fully healthy, and it sounds like he hasn't been in quite some time.
After sitting out practice on Monday, the Rams' second session of training camp, Young told reporters that he's still nursing a knee injury that's bothered him "for years." Young says he's "feeling real good," but he spent his offseason managing his knee with the Rams' training staff.
"It's been good," Young said of his offseason. "I've just been nursing up my knee. That was a process. They've got a good plan for me in place."
Young was asked about the recovery plan for his knee, and he says he and the Rams are going to take it "day by day." He practiced on Sunday and then sat out Monday's practice, but he plans to be back on the field "in a couple of days."
#knee #plan
Unfortunately, he's not fully healthy, and it sounds like he hasn't been in quite some time.
After sitting out practice on Monday, the Rams' second session of training camp, Young told reporters that he's still nursing a knee injury that's bothered him "for years." Young says he's "feeling real good," but he spent his offseason managing his knee with the Rams' training staff.
"It's been good," Young said of his offseason. "I've just been nursing up my knee. That was a process. They've got a good plan for me in place."
Young was asked about the recovery plan for his knee, and he says he and the Rams are going to take it "day by day." He practiced on Sunday and then sat out Monday's practice, but he plans to be back on the field "in a couple of days."
#knee #plan
17 hours ago
European football officials have issued a renewed directive on the use of Video ****** istant Referees (VAR), stressing that the technology should only intervene in cases of "blatantly incorrect" decisions or clear missed incidents.
The move follows a significant meeting last week involving referee chiefs from all 55 national ****** ociations and representatives from the International Football ****** ociation Board (Ifab), the body responsible for the game's laws.
The consensus reached aims to streamline officiating and reduce the impact of lengthy reviews.
A Uefa release stated: "VAR must only intervene in situations of 'clear and obvious' error, i.e. when a referee decision is blatantly incorrect or when the referee has missed a clear incident. VAR is not meant to re-referee the game, it is an essential support to the referees, who must remain at the centre of all decision-making. Lengthy, microscoping reviews are often a symptom revealing that the decision on the field was not clearly and obviously incorrect, and should therefore be limited."
VAR was a major point of contention at the World Cup (Getty)
#clear
The move follows a significant meeting last week involving referee chiefs from all 55 national ****** ociations and representatives from the International Football ****** ociation Board (Ifab), the body responsible for the game's laws.
The consensus reached aims to streamline officiating and reduce the impact of lengthy reviews.
A Uefa release stated: "VAR must only intervene in situations of 'clear and obvious' error, i.e. when a referee decision is blatantly incorrect or when the referee has missed a clear incident. VAR is not meant to re-referee the game, it is an essential support to the referees, who must remain at the centre of all decision-making. Lengthy, microscoping reviews are often a symptom revealing that the decision on the field was not clearly and obviously incorrect, and should therefore be limited."
VAR was a major point of contention at the World Cup (Getty)
#clear
17 hours ago
Officials across Europe have restated the need to use VAR only to change "blatantly incorrect" decisions and address clear missed incidents.
UEFA convened referee chiefs from all 55 national ****** ociations last week along with representatives from the International Football ****** ociation Board (IFAB), which sets the game's laws, in a bid to reach a consensus on the best approach to officiating.
There was "unanimous" support for further measures to speed up restarts, such as the time limits on substitutions and five-second countdowns for goal kicks and throw-ins.
However, arguably the most significant statement was a restating of VAR's original purpose.
"VAR must only intervene in situations of 'clear and obvious' error, i.e. when a referee decision is blatantly incorrect or when the referee has missed a clear incident," a UEFA release stated.
#uefa #only #Europe #international
UEFA convened referee chiefs from all 55 national ****** ociations last week along with representatives from the International Football ****** ociation Board (IFAB), which sets the game's laws, in a bid to reach a consensus on the best approach to officiating.
There was "unanimous" support for further measures to speed up restarts, such as the time limits on substitutions and five-second countdowns for goal kicks and throw-ins.
However, arguably the most significant statement was a restating of VAR's original purpose.
"VAR must only intervene in situations of 'clear and obvious' error, i.e. when a referee decision is blatantly incorrect or when the referee has missed a clear incident," a UEFA release stated.
#uefa #only #Europe #international
17 hours ago
Newcastle United have been linked with plenty of centre-backs over the past few windows, but Giorgio Scalvini feels like one of the more coherent names on the list. According to Tutto Atalanta, Atalanta are now prepared to listen if a club comes forward with €45 million for the Italy international.
That matters, because for a long time the message from Bergamo was simple, Scalvini was not going anywhere. Now there is movement. Clubs do not shift their position for the fun of it. They do it when they need flexibility, and Atalanta appear ready to create room for a squad refresh after other plans failed to materialise.
Photo IMAGO
From Newcastle's perspective, the appeal is obvious. Scalvini is 22, has already played more than 100 senior games, and has international experience with Italy. That is a serious body of work for a defender of his age. He is not a raw project and he is not being signed purely on upside. He already looks like a player built for a high-level team.
He also fits the practical brief. Eddie Howe needs another central defender, particularly one capable of complementing Sven Botman over the long term. Scalvini's ability on the ball, his comfort stepping into midfield, and his aerial strength all line up with what Newcastle need. This is not about buying a name, it is about buying function.
#scalvini #international #long
That matters, because for a long time the message from Bergamo was simple, Scalvini was not going anywhere. Now there is movement. Clubs do not shift their position for the fun of it. They do it when they need flexibility, and Atalanta appear ready to create room for a squad refresh after other plans failed to materialise.
Photo IMAGO
From Newcastle's perspective, the appeal is obvious. Scalvini is 22, has already played more than 100 senior games, and has international experience with Italy. That is a serious body of work for a defender of his age. He is not a raw project and he is not being signed purely on upside. He already looks like a player built for a high-level team.
He also fits the practical brief. Eddie Howe needs another central defender, particularly one capable of complementing Sven Botman over the long term. Scalvini's ability on the ball, his comfort stepping into midfield, and his aerial strength all line up with what Newcastle need. This is not about buying a name, it is about buying function.
#scalvini #international #long
18 hours ago
NHL trade rumors surrounding Kirill Marchenko intensified last week, but his agent has since poured cold water on reports linking the Columbus Blue Jackets forward to the Montreal Canadiens. The rumors gained traction after reports suggested Columbus was close to completing a blockbuster deal.
RG.org reported that Marchenko was "essentially between two teams" and that trade discussions were progressing. A source close to the winger said, "The parties are now negotiating the terms of the trade."
The speculation grew after an NHL ****** yst posted on X that the Canadiens were working on a complex three-team trade involving Columbus. The ****** yst added, "Montreal obviously has strong interest in Marchenko, but not just him."
MORE: Canadiens could get another shot at Kirill Marchenko, says NHL ****** yst
Marchenko's agent, Dan Milstein, wasted little time responding. "Go back to your vacation, man the mystery forward is doing more work than your 'sources' right now," Milstein wrote on X, dismissing the report with a playful jab.
#marchenko
RG.org reported that Marchenko was "essentially between two teams" and that trade discussions were progressing. A source close to the winger said, "The parties are now negotiating the terms of the trade."
The speculation grew after an NHL ****** yst posted on X that the Canadiens were working on a complex three-team trade involving Columbus. The ****** yst added, "Montreal obviously has strong interest in Marchenko, but not just him."
MORE: Canadiens could get another shot at Kirill Marchenko, says NHL ****** yst
Marchenko's agent, Dan Milstein, wasted little time responding. "Go back to your vacation, man the mystery forward is doing more work than your 'sources' right now," Milstein wrote on X, dismissing the report with a playful jab.
#marchenko
19 hours ago
When it comes to starting jobs, the Cincinnati Bengals don't have many major roster battles of note to start training camp.
That's the byproduct of a strong roster that received some major additions at the problem areas like defensive tackle, removing any doubt about who starts where.
Except for one spot on the roster, apparently.
Let special teams coordinator Darrin Simmons tell it, there's a starting-job battle between kick returners Charlie Jones and Ke'Shawn Williams.
"I think Ke'Shawn did a good job in the limited opportunities he had last year," Simmons said, according to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com. "Obviously, it's no big secret that Charlie has been productive when he's been on the field. We just need him to stay on the field longer. I think Ke'Shawn has earned every opportunity to put himself right in the thick of the competition."
#roster #simmons #starting #think
That's the byproduct of a strong roster that received some major additions at the problem areas like defensive tackle, removing any doubt about who starts where.
Except for one spot on the roster, apparently.
Let special teams coordinator Darrin Simmons tell it, there's a starting-job battle between kick returners Charlie Jones and Ke'Shawn Williams.
"I think Ke'Shawn did a good job in the limited opportunities he had last year," Simmons said, according to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com. "Obviously, it's no big secret that Charlie has been productive when he's been on the field. We just need him to stay on the field longer. I think Ke'Shawn has earned every opportunity to put himself right in the thick of the competition."
#roster #simmons #starting #think
19 hours ago
Enterprise AI agents were meant to be the breakout software offering for 2026, yet instead they've become one of the major sources of buyer distrust. According to Anaconda and Forrester research, over 88% of AI agent pilots never reach production, as confirmed by independent polls from a16z and MIT Sloan's CIO panel, while Gartner predicts that more than 40% of agentic AI initiatives will be discontinued entirely by 2027 due to questionable ROI.
Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM) walked into the gap between agent hype and agent reality when it placed its growth narrative on Agentforce, and by 2026, that bet has made Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM) one of the worst-performing components of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, down around 31.48% year to date.
The immediate cause appears to be a credibility problem, not a demand issue. Bernstein downgraded Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM) to Sector Weight from Outperform on July 9, removing its price target completely and citing poor customer feedback on Agentforce in particular. According to **** yst Jackson Ader, the released data doesn't yet indicate growing momentum, and a recent CIO survey found Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM) to be "a standout for the wrong reasons."
That said, this interpretation is not uniform, and the debate on the market is serious. On July 14, Goldman Sachs reiterated its Buy rating and $242 price target, expecting organic growth to pick up in the third quarter as more details on AI monetization become available at Salesforce's Agentforce event in September. Goldman's more constructive reading is based on management's own acknowledgment of headwinds in Tableau, Commerce, and Marketing, which the firm sees as realistic rather than concerning, arguing that Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM) is being open about a 12-to-24-month drag on its organic growth algorithm rather than covering it up.
Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM)'s historical valuation decline looks to be the most mispriced aspect of the market story. Shares are currently trading at a compressed forward earnings multiple of only 10.83x, a substantial drop from the stock's five-year historical average of over 127x. The disparity is even more obvious when compared to prominent peers such as ServiceNow, which trades at a forward P/E of around 20.43x and requires consistent revenue growth above 18% through 2028 to maintain its valuation premium. Salesforce's current valuation of less than 11x forecast earnings is in near-total deadlock, despite the company's strong free cash flow generation and substantial enterprise data integration.
#valuation #july
Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM) walked into the gap between agent hype and agent reality when it placed its growth narrative on Agentforce, and by 2026, that bet has made Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM) one of the worst-performing components of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, down around 31.48% year to date.
The immediate cause appears to be a credibility problem, not a demand issue. Bernstein downgraded Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM) to Sector Weight from Outperform on July 9, removing its price target completely and citing poor customer feedback on Agentforce in particular. According to **** yst Jackson Ader, the released data doesn't yet indicate growing momentum, and a recent CIO survey found Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM) to be "a standout for the wrong reasons."
That said, this interpretation is not uniform, and the debate on the market is serious. On July 14, Goldman Sachs reiterated its Buy rating and $242 price target, expecting organic growth to pick up in the third quarter as more details on AI monetization become available at Salesforce's Agentforce event in September. Goldman's more constructive reading is based on management's own acknowledgment of headwinds in Tableau, Commerce, and Marketing, which the firm sees as realistic rather than concerning, arguing that Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM) is being open about a 12-to-24-month drag on its organic growth algorithm rather than covering it up.
Salesforce Inc. (NYSE:CRM)'s historical valuation decline looks to be the most mispriced aspect of the market story. Shares are currently trading at a compressed forward earnings multiple of only 10.83x, a substantial drop from the stock's five-year historical average of over 127x. The disparity is even more obvious when compared to prominent peers such as ServiceNow, which trades at a forward P/E of around 20.43x and requires consistent revenue growth above 18% through 2028 to maintain its valuation premium. Salesforce's current valuation of less than 11x forecast earnings is in near-total deadlock, despite the company's strong free cash flow generation and substantial enterprise data integration.
#valuation #july
24 hours ago
Retired wrestling legend AJ Styles made a bold point calling out WWE for not pushing new star Bron Breakker fast enough into the world ***** le scene. Breakker was viewed as a "can't miss prospect" after an epic NXT run and a hot start to his main roster career. WWE seemed ready to push Breakker to the top after storylines with Paul Heyman, Seth Rollins and CM Punk. Recent months have seen things slowing for Breakker and seemingly distanced from the main event scene.
Styles had the following to say on his podcast about being confused at WWE's logic:
"How long are we going to wait for Bron Breakker to be Heavyweight Champion? He should be next. I think that he's definitely a star right now. Why we haven't put it on him to put the rocket up his ***** and send him to the freaking moon? I don't know why we haven't done that because he is the destroyer."
The current role of Styles sees him retired from in-ring competition but active in various background roles for WWE. Styles uses his experience of well over two decades to contribute via coaching, training and scouting for the company. The new role likely makes it more pivotal on AJ's side to see obvious new stars getting truly elevated.
One noteworthy subject here goes back to WWE's overall main event. Roman Reigns, CM Punk, and Cody Rhodes are treated on a full tier above the rest of the roster. Young stars must be presented on an equal level to these three or fans will never view them as a top name.
#star #roster
Styles had the following to say on his podcast about being confused at WWE's logic:
"How long are we going to wait for Bron Breakker to be Heavyweight Champion? He should be next. I think that he's definitely a star right now. Why we haven't put it on him to put the rocket up his ***** and send him to the freaking moon? I don't know why we haven't done that because he is the destroyer."
The current role of Styles sees him retired from in-ring competition but active in various background roles for WWE. Styles uses his experience of well over two decades to contribute via coaching, training and scouting for the company. The new role likely makes it more pivotal on AJ's side to see obvious new stars getting truly elevated.
One noteworthy subject here goes back to WWE's overall main event. Roman Reigns, CM Punk, and Cody Rhodes are treated on a full tier above the rest of the roster. Young stars must be presented on an equal level to these three or fans will never view them as a top name.
#star #roster
1 day ago
The Diamondbacks dropped the opener of The Most Important Series of the Season™, losing 3-2 in ten innings to the Pirates. Merrill Kelly pitched well, and Max Kepler gave Arizona a 2-0 lead. But a throwing error by Kelly allowed a key Pittsburgh run, and Juan Morillo then gave up the tying score, which pushed the contest into extras. The Diamondbacks were unable to take advantage of a major Pirates gaffe, stranding the Manfred Man. A ball which was clanked off the glove of Ildemaro Vargas let the home team walk off, but the key stat tonight was the D-backs going just 2-for-14 with runners in scoring position. And one of those hits didn't score a run either.
But to focus on the positives. Merrill Kelly continued his resurgence. He finished June with an ERA above six (6.11, to be precise). But since the calendar turned to July, he has been much improved. Tonight, he allowed only an unearned run over 5.2 innings, on four hits – all of which were singles. He walked one and struck out six. [That is still an area of concern. Through nineteen starts last year, he had 7 or more K's eight times: he hasn't gone past six at all this year] He did hit a batter, Pirates' rookie Esmerlyn Valdez wearing a pitch around the wrist area, and having to leave the game in obvious discomfort. Hopefully, there's no serious damage there.
Through five innings, both Kelley and his opposite number – confusingly, called M. Keller – were basically cruising. Each side has managed to advance only one runner past first-base to that point. In the top of the second, Max Kepler led off with a single, advanced to third on a pair of outs, but was stranded there when Ildemaro Vargas grounded out. For the Pirates, they got a two-out single in the bottom of the fifth, and the runner stole second before being left there. Kelly even got a pick-off, ending the fourth by nailing the pinch-runner who had come in to replace Valdez. Rather embarrassing for them, I imagine.
Both pitchers were also being highly efficient. Through five innings, Keller had needed just 63 pitches, and Kelly less than a handful more at 67. I particularly enjoyed this strikeout by Kelly which ended the fifth inning. None of the six pitches in the zone, and zero contact by the batter on his three swings. However, my hopes of a quick recap foundered thereafter, as neither starting pitcher would make it through the sixth. Corbin Carroll and Geraldo Perdomo singled to lead off the top of the frame, though Gabriel Moreno would strike out looking, on a master-class of ABS by the Pirates catcher, which reversed two ******* to strikes, by very narrow margins.
[Conversely, Moreno was 0-for-2 in his challenges tonight. Though it is worth noting that the team's overall challenge rate when on defense is still 66.7%, significantly better than the MLB average of 58.1%.]
#innings #tonight #runner
But to focus on the positives. Merrill Kelly continued his resurgence. He finished June with an ERA above six (6.11, to be precise). But since the calendar turned to July, he has been much improved. Tonight, he allowed only an unearned run over 5.2 innings, on four hits – all of which were singles. He walked one and struck out six. [That is still an area of concern. Through nineteen starts last year, he had 7 or more K's eight times: he hasn't gone past six at all this year] He did hit a batter, Pirates' rookie Esmerlyn Valdez wearing a pitch around the wrist area, and having to leave the game in obvious discomfort. Hopefully, there's no serious damage there.
Through five innings, both Kelley and his opposite number – confusingly, called M. Keller – were basically cruising. Each side has managed to advance only one runner past first-base to that point. In the top of the second, Max Kepler led off with a single, advanced to third on a pair of outs, but was stranded there when Ildemaro Vargas grounded out. For the Pirates, they got a two-out single in the bottom of the fifth, and the runner stole second before being left there. Kelly even got a pick-off, ending the fourth by nailing the pinch-runner who had come in to replace Valdez. Rather embarrassing for them, I imagine.
Both pitchers were also being highly efficient. Through five innings, Keller had needed just 63 pitches, and Kelly less than a handful more at 67. I particularly enjoyed this strikeout by Kelly which ended the fifth inning. None of the six pitches in the zone, and zero contact by the batter on his three swings. However, my hopes of a quick recap foundered thereafter, as neither starting pitcher would make it through the sixth. Corbin Carroll and Geraldo Perdomo singled to lead off the top of the frame, though Gabriel Moreno would strike out looking, on a master-class of ABS by the Pirates catcher, which reversed two ******* to strikes, by very narrow margins.
[Conversely, Moreno was 0-for-2 in his challenges tonight. Though it is worth noting that the team's overall challenge rate when on defense is still 66.7%, significantly better than the MLB average of 58.1%.]
#innings #tonight #runner
1 day ago
Before (SPCX) went public, I wrote that the extraordinary demand for its IPO might be the warning. The shares were priced at $135, climbed to $225.64, and closed Friday at $115.07. Investors who loved the stock six weeks ago now appear eager to sell it. The company has lost almost half its value since the high. Short sellers, meanwhile, are sitting on an estimated $15.5 billion of paper profits.
That first article was about scarcity and behavior. Too many investors chased too few shares, and the excitement around owning (SPCX) became more important than the price they paid.
When the stock returned to its IPO price, I wrote that $135 was not automatically a buy. An offering price is a number agreed upon during a sales process, not a declaration of fair value.
Both warnings have held up. But markets move, and the risk has now moved with them.
The dangerous crowd is no longer only the one that chased (SPCX) higher. It may now include the investors who believe the decline has become an easy one-way trade.
I still think (SPCX) is expensive. At Friday's price, the company is worth roughly $1.5 trillion. Aswath Damodaran, the NYU professor known as the dean of valuation, estimated its equity value at around $1.3 trillion before the IPO. His largest concern was the value being attached to the artificial-intelligence business, where the ***** umptions are much harder to defend than they are for Starlink or the launch operation. The bears have a case. My concern is that they are becoming too comfortable with it.
The Easy Part of the Short May Be Over
Around 360 million (SPCX) shares, representing roughly 56% of the freely traded stock, were out on loan earlier last week. Short sellers were not using the decline to take profits. According to Ortex, they were increasing their positions. That does not prove they are mistaken. Crowded trades can remain profitable for a long time. It does tell us what might happen if the news starts improving.
A short seller eventually has to buy the shares back. When a large part of the available stock has already been borrowed and sold, even a modest change in expectations can create demand from investors who are not buying because they suddenly love the company. They are buying because the trade is moving against them. This is the mirror image of the IPO. In June, investors were afraid they would miss the rise. Now short sellers are afraid they will miss the decline. A stock rising from $135 to $225 felt safer because other investors appeared to agree with the bullish story. A stock falling toward $115 makes the bearish argument feel more obvious because the price appears to confirm it. Price is evidence, but it is not always proof.
(SPCX)'s launch economics did not deteriorate by 49%. Starlink did not lose half its subscribers. The stock fell because expectations, positioning, and the supply of willing buyers changed.
#investors #price #shares #company
That first article was about scarcity and behavior. Too many investors chased too few shares, and the excitement around owning (SPCX) became more important than the price they paid.
When the stock returned to its IPO price, I wrote that $135 was not automatically a buy. An offering price is a number agreed upon during a sales process, not a declaration of fair value.
Both warnings have held up. But markets move, and the risk has now moved with them.
The dangerous crowd is no longer only the one that chased (SPCX) higher. It may now include the investors who believe the decline has become an easy one-way trade.
I still think (SPCX) is expensive. At Friday's price, the company is worth roughly $1.5 trillion. Aswath Damodaran, the NYU professor known as the dean of valuation, estimated its equity value at around $1.3 trillion before the IPO. His largest concern was the value being attached to the artificial-intelligence business, where the ***** umptions are much harder to defend than they are for Starlink or the launch operation. The bears have a case. My concern is that they are becoming too comfortable with it.
The Easy Part of the Short May Be Over
Around 360 million (SPCX) shares, representing roughly 56% of the freely traded stock, were out on loan earlier last week. Short sellers were not using the decline to take profits. According to Ortex, they were increasing their positions. That does not prove they are mistaken. Crowded trades can remain profitable for a long time. It does tell us what might happen if the news starts improving.
A short seller eventually has to buy the shares back. When a large part of the available stock has already been borrowed and sold, even a modest change in expectations can create demand from investors who are not buying because they suddenly love the company. They are buying because the trade is moving against them. This is the mirror image of the IPO. In June, investors were afraid they would miss the rise. Now short sellers are afraid they will miss the decline. A stock rising from $135 to $225 felt safer because other investors appeared to agree with the bullish story. A stock falling toward $115 makes the bearish argument feel more obvious because the price appears to confirm it. Price is evidence, but it is not always proof.
(SPCX)'s launch economics did not deteriorate by 49%. Starlink did not lose half its subscribers. The stock fell because expectations, positioning, and the supply of willing buyers changed.
#investors #price #shares #company
1 day ago
Vita Vea's trade request should put the San Francisco 49ers on the phone with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
NFL Network reported that Vea asked to be moved after extension talks stalled. The two-time Pro Bowler is entering the final year of his contract with a $17 million base salary, giving San Francisco a rare chance to address one of its most uncertain position groups with a proven difference-maker.
The 49ers may also fit Vea's preferred destination. Football **** yst Ted Nguyen reported on X, citing a source, that Vea "wants to go to a California team or the Raiders." A return to the Bay Area would carry obvious appeal for Vea, who attended Milpitas High School before becoming the No. 12 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Vita Vea could give the 49ers needed durability and interior pressure while forming a dominant front with Nick Bosa and Osa Odighizuwa. Getty Images
The strongest argument for pursuing him is also the simplest: Vea nearly matched the entire 49ers interior defensive line's pressure production by himself last season.
#tampa
NFL Network reported that Vea asked to be moved after extension talks stalled. The two-time Pro Bowler is entering the final year of his contract with a $17 million base salary, giving San Francisco a rare chance to address one of its most uncertain position groups with a proven difference-maker.
The 49ers may also fit Vea's preferred destination. Football **** yst Ted Nguyen reported on X, citing a source, that Vea "wants to go to a California team or the Raiders." A return to the Bay Area would carry obvious appeal for Vea, who attended Milpitas High School before becoming the No. 12 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Vita Vea could give the 49ers needed durability and interior pressure while forming a dominant front with Nick Bosa and Osa Odighizuwa. Getty Images
The strongest argument for pursuing him is also the simplest: Vea nearly matched the entire 49ers interior defensive line's pressure production by himself last season.
#tampa
1 day ago
The saga is over; LeBron James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers. Not the Miami Heat.
It's only notable now because, well, remember when the Heat set their introductory press conference with James on their YouTube channel last week? It was clearly an accident, and now that James joined the 76ers rather than the Heat, it's also become obvious that this wasn't some inadvertent early reveal.
So, how did this happen? What took place with that Heat staffer who made the mistake?
Usually, the Heat, as an organization, have things ***** oned up. Rarely are there leaks. So when they somehow published a future introductory press conference for James, eyebrows were raised.
According to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, a member of the Heat had been scheduled to take a vacation and was simply trying to "get ahead" of their work just in case James chose to return to South Beach. Yet, James' camp found the whole story entertaining.
#james #lebron #Miami
It's only notable now because, well, remember when the Heat set their introductory press conference with James on their YouTube channel last week? It was clearly an accident, and now that James joined the 76ers rather than the Heat, it's also become obvious that this wasn't some inadvertent early reveal.
So, how did this happen? What took place with that Heat staffer who made the mistake?
Usually, the Heat, as an organization, have things ***** oned up. Rarely are there leaks. So when they somehow published a future introductory press conference for James, eyebrows were raised.
According to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, a member of the Heat had been scheduled to take a vacation and was simply trying to "get ahead" of their work just in case James chose to return to South Beach. Yet, James' camp found the whole story entertaining.
#james #lebron #Miami
