San Luis Obispo (CA) Mission Prep‘s football program has gone nearly a decade under the watch of David Schuster as the school’s head coach. Over the weekend the longtime California high school football lead man announced his resignation.

According to a social media release, Schuster announced that he is stepping down as the program’s head coach after nine seasons. Over course of nearly 10 years, Schuster compiled an overall record of 61-34 from 2016 to 2025.

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“Today, I officially resigned from (Mission Prep Football). I have lived a dream for 9 years as the head coach of this beautiful school. To everyone who signed The Bricks, I love you dearly and it has been my greatest honor to be your coach,” Schuster said in a statement via social media.

Schuster’s first two seasons were as a Division 6 eight-man team before moving up to 11-man football in Division III. The Royals’ best campaign under Schuster came from 2021 to 2023 when Mission Prep had a combined record of 26-9.

In 2025, Mission Prep posted a 3-8 record and ranked as the No. 474 program in the state, according to the final California High School Football Massey Rankings.

More about Mission Prep

Mission Prep is a Catholic high school that focuses on forming students into well-rounded individuals with strong academic, spiritual, and athletic foundations. The school emphasizes scholarship, leadership, and service to others, with a vibrant athletics program that encourages participation across various sports, including football, basketball, and more.

How to Follow California High School Football

For California high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the nation, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the Golden State, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the high school football excitement across the state of California.

What caused vomiting among Cowboys rookies at minicamp? Brian Schottenheimer’s honest take originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

During the first day of the Dallas Cowboys' 2026 rookie minicamp on May 1, head coach Brian Schottenheimer noted that several rookies struggled with the physical demands of the session. He specifically mentioned that the high-intensity drills led to health concerns, including instances of vomiting among the players.

Schotty says the #Cowboys have truly started putting their rookie class through the conditioning paces this weekend, to get them NFL ready now, not later.

… and to the point where “there was some vomiting” over the past couple days.

welcome to the NFL.

— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) May 2, 2026

“None of these guys are in great shape right now,” Schottenheimer said during a presser. “You might have seen a few guys getting sick yesterday, a little bit of vomiting going on.”

The vomiting was due to conditioning issues as the rookies weren't yet in NFL-level football shape. This is actually a common occurrence at rookie minicamps across the league. Many players arrive in "combine shape" (trained for testing drills like the 40-yard dash) rather than game-ready conditioning, which involves sustained high-intensity work during practice.

Schottenheimer's comments were straightforward and unsurprising for coaches familiar with rookie minicamps. It's essentially a "welcome to the NFL" reality check where the intensity and tempo of professional practices expose which players need to get on enhanced conditioning programs before the regular season begins.

Despite these conditioning hurdles, Schottenheimer was highly complimentary of the group's mental approach and talent. He described the 2026 class, particularly first-round pick Caleb Downs, as having "elite" intelligence and character. He praised the rookies' versatility and ability to compete at a high level despite the early "physical distress". 

Schottenheimer stressed that while the rookies gave "everything they had," there is a clear need for them to improve their physical preparation before the main training camp begins in late July.

Brian Schottenheimer has "Three Cs" for his rookie players

The coach has a simple plan for his new players. He calls it the "Three C’s". First, he wants them to feel comfortable so they don't feel too nervous. Second, he wants them to learn what it means to be a Cowboy and follow the team's rules. 

Most importantly, he wants them to stay connected and become good friends. By building these friendships early, the team can work better together when the real games begin.

“I talked about it to them, the three C’s,” he said. “Get them comfortable, a Cowboy, getting them caught up with football, but probably most importantly, getting them connected to one another.”

The minicamp, held at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, serves as the first on-field look for a 2026 draft class headlined by safety Caleb Downs who was picked at No. 11 overall.

More NFL news:

• Jaguars TE going viral for the oddest reason
• How the Steelers are setting up for Arch Manning
• Eagles might have a DeVonta Smith problem
• Patriots give another A.J. Brown signal
• From Falcons to Cardinals, Tyler Allgeier can't catch a break

The reason 76ers, Paul George couldn't possibly lose Game 7 to Celtics originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Paul George celebrated his birthday on Saturday.

It was also Game 7 for the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the NBA playoffs against the Boston Celtics.

Turns out, that was the perfect combination.

According to ESPN, no player has ever lost a Game 7 played on their birthday:

Hilarious ESPN stat pic.twitter.com/L5OfPZqKhb

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) May 3, 2026

MORE: Joel Embiid, injuries and all, overcomes Game 7 demons

Shoutout to the researcher who chased that one down. Incredible stuff.

George turned 36 on Saturday, and he and his teammates got to turn it into a road trip celebration in Boston.

The 76ers completed a comeback from 3-1 down to take the series that went the distance. They advance to play the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

MORE: How Celtics were doomed by 3-point shooting

George was solid in the clincher, playing 42 of a possible 48 minutes and scoring 13 points on 5-for-10 from the floor, including 3-for-5 from beyond the arc. He added three rebounds and an assist, and in a game the 76ers won by nine points, George was a plus-9.

The 76ers won't be able to call on George's birthday again, although they do have some birthdays coming up.

MORE: Breaking down what's next for Jayson Tatum

Quentin Grimes will turn 26 on May 8. And Dominick Barlow will turn 23 on May 26.

Maybe there's still some celebratory magic for the 76ers to call on before this postseason is done.

More NBA news:

• Bronny James just did something Michael Jordan never did
• Cavs' legacies, futures may have all changed on one bounce
• Brandon Ingram injury creates a big dilemma
• Things aren't going well for Donovan Mitchell
• Evan Mobley's crucial mistake sums up his career

Tennessee baseball signee Michael Teasley was named District 4-4A Pitcher of the Year by the district's coaches.

Teasley, a senior pitcher and third baseman at Oak Ridge High School in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, signed with the Vols on Jan. 28 after committing to Tennessee on Oct. 20, 2024. He was also named First-Team All-District.

The future Vol has led the Wildcats to consecutive appearances in the TSSAA Class 4A state tournament. Teasley was named District 3-4A Player of the Year as a junior in 2025 and earned All-State honors from the Tennessee Sports Writers Association.

Oak Ridge (29-7-1) has recorded two wins in the 2026 District 4-4A Tournament. The Wildcats defeated Bearden High School (Knoxville, Tennessee), 3-1, on May 1 at Bobby Hopkins Field in Oak Ridge.

Teasley pitched 6.2 innings and allowed one run, five hits and three walks. He recorded 10 strikeouts, while totaling 115 pitches, including 70 strikes. Offensively, Teasley went went 1-for-3. He recorded one home run, one RBI and one run.

On May 2, Oak Ridge defeated four-time defending Class 4A state champion Farragut High School, 10-5, at John Heatherly Field in Farragut, Tennessee.

Teasley went 1-for-3, recording three RBIs and one run. He hit a two-run single in the second inning when the Wildcats scored eight runs.

More: Michael Teasley details signing with Tennessee after coaching change

Follow Vols Wire on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).

This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: Tennessee baseball signee named Pitcher of the Year in 2026

UFC Fight Night 275

Carlos Prates (24-7 MMA, 7-1 UFC) Jack Della Maddalena (18-4 MMA, 8-2 UFC)

Events stats

The UFC Promotional Guidelines Compliance payout for the event totaled $198,500.

Debuting fighters went 0-2 at the event.

Prates, Quillan Salkilld, Brando Pericic and Shamil Gaziev earned $100,000 UFC Fight Night 275 fight-night bonuses. Four fighters earned $25,000 finish bonuses.

UFC Fight Night 275 drew an announced attendance of 13,839 for a live gate of $3,074,696.

Betting favorites went 10-2 on the card. One fight had even odds.

Betting favorites remained 5-7 in UFC headliners this year. Two main events, including Prates vs. Della Maddalena, had even odds.

Total fight time for the 13-bout card was 2:16:45.

Carlos Prates def. Jack Della Maddalena

Prates has earned 22 of his 24 career victories by stoppage. He's finished all seven of his UFC wins by knockout.

Prates' seven knockout victories in UFC welterweight competition are tied for fifth-most in divisional history behind Matt Brown (13), Thiago Alves (eight), Li Jingliang (eight) and Vicente Luque (eight).

Prates' seven knockout victories since 2024 in UFC competition are most in the company.

Prates' 12 knockdowns landed in UFC welterweight competition are second-most in divisional history behind Thiago Alves (13).

Prates became the seventh fighter in UFC history to have two appearances with three or more knockdowns landed. Israel Adesanya, Anderson Silva, Marlon Vera, Donald Cerrone, Conor McGregor and John Lineker also accomplished the feat.

Della Maddalena has suffered consecutive losses after going on an 18-fight winning streak.

Della Maddalena has suffered three of his four career losses by stoppage.

Quillan Salkilld def. Beneil Dariush

Quillan Salkilld's (12-1 MMA, 5-0 UFC) five-fight UFC winning streak at lightweight is tied for the second-longest active streak in the division behind Fares Ziam (six).

Salkilld has earned four of his five UFC victories by stoppage.

Beneil Dariush (23-8-1 MMA, 17-8-1 UFC) has suffered all eight of his career losses by stoppage.

Steve Erceg def. Tim Elliott

Steve Erceg (14-4 MMA, 5-3 UFC) has earned four of his five UFC victories by decision.

Tim Elliott (21-15-1 MMA, 10-12 UFC) fell to 8-8 since he returned to the UFC for a second stint in December 2016.

Elliott has suffered seven of his 11 UFC losses by decision.

Marwan Rahiki def. Ollie Schmid

Marwan Rahiki (9-0 MMA, 2-0 UFC) has earned all nine of his career victories by stoppage.

Ollie Schmid (4-3 MMA, 0-1 UFC) has suffered all three of his career losses by stoppage.

Brando Pericic def. Shamil Gaziev

Brando Pericic (7-1 MMA, 3-0 UFC) has earned all seven of his career victories by stoppage.

Shamil Gaziev (14-3 MMA, 3-4 UFC) has suffered all three of his career losses by knockout.

Louie Sutherland def. Tai Tuivasa

Tai Tuivasa's (14-10 MMA, 8-10 UFC) seven-fight losing skid is the longest of his career. He hasn't earned a victory since February 2022.

Tuivasa's seven-fight UFC losing skid is tied with B.J. Penn for second-longest in company history behind Tony Ferguson (eight).

Tuivasa fell to 5-10 in his past 15 fights after starting his career 10-0.

Tuivasa has suffered seven of his 10 career losses by stoppage.

Junior Tafa def. Kevin Christian

Junior Tafa (7-5 MMA, 3-5 UFC) improved to 1-2 since he dropped to the light heavyweight division in May 2025.

Tafa has earned all seven of his career victories by knockout.

Kevin Christian (9-4 MMA, 0-2 UFC) has suffered all four of his career losses by stoppage.

Jacob Malkoun def. Gerald Meerschaert

Jacob Malkoun (10-3 MMA, 6-3 UFC) has earned five of his six UFC victories by decision.

Gerald Meerschaert's (37-22 MMA, 12-14 UFC) five-fight losing skid is the longest of his career. He hasn't earned a victory since August 2024.

Meerschaert fell to 3-8 in his past 11 fights dating back to April 2022.

Colby Thicknesse def. Vince Morales

Colby Thicknesse (9-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC) has earned both of his UFC victories by decision.

Vince Morales (11-11 MMA, 3-9 UFC) suffered his fifth consecutive loss in UFC competition. He hasn't earned an octagon victory since December 2021.

Morales fell to 0-4 since he returned to the UFC for a second stint in September 2024.

Morales has suffered eight of his nine UFC losses by decision.

Wes Schultz def. Ben Johnston

Wes Schultz (9-3 MMA, 1-1 UFC) has earned eight of his nine career victories by stoppage.

Ben Johnston (5-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC) has suffered both of his career losses by stoppage.

Johnston suffered the first submission loss of his career.

Jonathan Micallef def. Themba Gorimbo

Jonathan Micallef (10-1 MMA, 3-0 UFC) has earned two of his three UFC victories by decision.

Kody Steele def. Dom Mar Fan

Kody Steele (8-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC) has earned six of his eight career victories by stoppage.

Dom Mar Fan (9-3 MMA, 1-1 UFC) has suffered all three of his career losses by submission.

UFC research analyst and live statistics producer Michael Carroll contributed to this story. Follow him on X @MJCflipdascript.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC Perth post-event facts: Carlos Prates starting to make history

Another day of minor league baseball is in the books. See the results below.

AAA: Sugar Land Space Cowboys (17-15) won 8-7 (BOX SCORE)

Sugar Land got on the board in the 2nd inning on a Biggio RBI single. In the 3rd inning, they picked up 3 more runs on a Perez 3 run home run. Hendrickson got the start and was solid allowing 2 runs over 5 innings. Sugar Land got 3 more runs in the 6th on a Price 2 run home run and Biggio sac fly. Price added another home run, this time a solo shot, in the 8th inning. The pen struggled a bit allowing 5 runs but were ultimately able to hang on for the 8-7 win.

Note: Hendrickson has a 2.51 ERA this season.

• James Nelson, 3B: 1-for-5, R
• CJ Alexander, RF: 2-for-5, R
• Carlos Perez, C: 1-for-3, 2 R, HR, 3 RBI, BB
• Collin Price, DH: 2-for-4, 2 R, 2 HR, 3 RBI
• Riley Unroe, 2B: 1-for-3, R, SB
• Cavan Biggio, 1B: 1-for-3, 2 RBI

• Josh Hendrickson, LHP: 5.0 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 5 K (WIN)
• Sam Carlson, RHP: 1.0 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 K
• Hudson Leach, RHP: 1.0 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 1 K
• Logan VanWey, RHP: 1.0 IP, 3 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 0 BB, 1 K
• Anthony Maldonado, RHP: 1.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 2 K (SAVE)

AA: Corpus Christi Hooks (12-14) lost 9-5 (BOX SCORE)

Gillis got the start and went 3 innings allowing 2 runs. The offense got on the board in the 3rd scoring 3 runs on a Sacco solo home run and Dezenzo 2 run home run. True relieved Gillis but struggled allowing 4 runs over 1.2 innings. The Hooks got one back in the 5th inning scoring a run on a passed ball. The pen allowed another 3 runs as Frisco extended their lead. The offense got one back in the 8th inning on an Encarnacion solo home run but that was it as the Hooks fell 9-5.

Note: Bush has a .890 OPS this season.

• Will Bush, C: 2-for-4, R, BB
• Zach Dezenzo, LF: 1-for-4, R, HR, 2 RBI, BB
• Yamal Encarnacion, 2B: 1-for-5, R, HR, RBI
• Hector Salas, 3B: 1-for-3, R, BB
• Tommy Sacco, SS: 3-for-3, R, 2B, HR, RBI, BB

• Brett Gillis, RHP: 3.0 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 1 K
• Derek True, RHP: 1.2 IP, 4 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 2 BB, 0 K
• Ramsey David, RHP: 1.1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 K
• Alejandro Torres, RHP: 1.0 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 1 K
• Michael Cuevas, RHP: 2.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 1 K

A+: Asheville Tourists (6-20) lost 9-3 (BOX SCORE)

Howard started for Asheville and was phenomenal tossing 6 scoreless innings while striking out 7 batters. Ogando struggled in relief allowing 4 runs in the 7th as Wilmington took the lead. The struggles continues in the 8th as he allowed another 5 runs. The offense rallied for 3 runs in the 9th on a Call RBI double, Powell RBI single and Holy groundout but that was it as Asheville fell 9-3.

Note: Brutcher is hitting .275 this season.

• Max Holy, SS: 0-for-4, RBI, BB
• Drew Brutcher, 1B: 2-for-4, R, SB
• Freuddy Batista, C: 1-for-3, R
• Chase Call, RF: 1-for-3, R, 2B, RBI, BB
• Caden Powell, LF: 1-for-3, RBI, BB
• Zach Daudet, 3B: 2-for-3, BB, SB

• Dylan Howard, RHP: 6.0 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 7 K
• Joan Ogando, RHP: 1.1 IP, 4 H, 9 R, 9 ER, 6 BB, 1 K
• Colby Langford, LHP: 0.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 0 K

A: Fayetteville Woodpeckers (10-16) 

Game One – lost 8-6 (BOX SCORE)

The Woodpeckers got on the board in the first inning on a Neyens solo home run and Wakefield RBI double. Forcucci got the start but really struggled allowing 1 run in the first inning and 5 runs in the 2nd inning, retiring just 3 batters. The offense got a run in the 3rd on a Cole solo home run and another in the 6th on an Alvarez solo home run. The RiverDogs extended their lead in the 5th scoring 2 runs. In the 7th, Neyens connected on a 2 run home run but that was it from the offense as the Woodpeckers fell 8-6.

Note: Neyens has a .949 OPS this season.

• Kevin Alvarez, LF: 1-for-4, R, HR, RBI
• Zach Cole, CF: 1-for-3, 2 R, HR, RBI, BB
• Xavier Neyens, 3B: 3-for-4, 2 R, 2 HR, 3 RBI
• Nick Monistere, 2B: 0-for-3, R, BB, SB
• Josh Wakefield, RF: 2-for-3, 2 2B, RBI, BB, SB
• Nehomar Ochoa, DH: 2-for-4, SB

• Ryan Forcucci, RHP: 1.0 IP, 2 H, 6 R, 6 ER, 4 BB, 0 K
• Jackson Wells, RHP: 2.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 1 K
• Coleman MacRae, RHP: 3.0 IP, 1 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 3 K

Game Two – lost 10-2 (BOX SCORE)

The Woodpeckers got on the board in the 2nd inning on a Flores solo home run. Dixon got the start, marking his first game since 2023, and was great striking out 7 over 3 perfect innings. Serrano relieved Dixon but really struggled allowing 9 runs over 1.2 innings. The offense got one back in the 6th on a Flores RBI single but that was it as the Woodpeckers dropped game two.

Note: Wakefield is hitting .338 this season.

• Nick Monistere, SS: 1-for-2, R, BB
• Josh Wakefield, LF: 1-for-3
• Arturo Flores, 1B: 3-for-3, R, HR, 2 RBI

• Joey Dixon, RHP: 3.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 7 K
• Jose Serrano, RHP: 1.2 IP, 5 H, 9 R, 7 ER, 4 BB, 1 K
• Leomar Rosario, RHP: 1.1 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 3 BB, 1 K

Today’s minor league starters:

SL: Brandon Bielak – 3:05 CT

CC: Trey Dombroski – 2:05 CT

AV: Nolan DeVos – 12:05 CT

FV: TBD – 4:05 CT

We witnessed footballing madness, beauty, drama, and poetry all wrapped into one in the first leg of the Champions League semifinals between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich in Paris. It’s ludicrous to think that the 5-4 scoreline didn’t even do the attacking talent that was on display, as either side very well could’ve scored more than they did, and it’s even more ridiculous to note that none of the defenders on the pitch really had poor matches — the attacking players on the night were just THAT GOOD! All of Harry Kane, Michael Olise, Luis Díaz, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé, and Désiré Doué were sensational on the night and helped produce one of the most elite pair of attacking performances we’ve ever seen in the Champions League semifinals.

There’s quite often matches earlier than the final in the competition that fit the billing of being a final and Bayern seem to have found themselves involved in matches of that caliber quite often. Real Madrid in the quarters this season, PSG in the semis, Inter Milan in the quarters last season, Real Madrid in the 2023/24 semis, Arsenal in the 2023/24 quarters, and the list goes on.

Reactions from the 5-4 first leg semi between PSG and Bayern trickled in from every corner of the footballing world, justifiably, and a lot of managers across Europe offered their two cents on what they witnessed, whether it had been live, full match highlights, or even match replays. Not everyone joked about not being able to bear watching such a match like Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola, who was in attendance at Stockport County’s match against Port Vale in English League One.

A collection of reactions from managers across Europe (via @iMiaSanMia):

Cesc Fàbregas (Como): “I think I watched the best game of my life as a football fan. I enjoyed it, it showed where modern football is going. I learned a lot from this match. It was a pleasure for everyone.”

Pierre Sage (RC Lens): “We were completely on the edge of our seats, glued to our screens. I’m one of those people who prefers to see a 5-4 scoreline rather than a 1-0 one. When you see the level of these teams and the individual level of each player, you realize how high the bar is set.”

Habib Beye (Olympique Marseille): “This football inspires everyone. Everyone who saw this spectacle… There are no words.”

Niko Kovač (Borussia Dortmund): “It was a spectacle. So sensational to watch. I have to say I enjoyed it. Let’s not kid ourselves – the top tier at the moment is Bayern Munich and PSG. All other clubs in Europe are watching with a lot of interest to see what’s needed to get there.”

Franck Haise (Stade Rennes): “I thought to myself: what’s going on? Even though you could expect that crazy things can happen with the two best teams in the world, with exceptional players everywhere, there’s a difference between expecting something and actually having it happen.. I was sitting on my sofa and I fully enjoyed it.”

If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…

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The Mariners were a little bit of everything in April, which is exactly what they were supposed to be. 

The Mariners finished April with a .500 record. The month included a five-game losing streak, a four-game losing streak, and two four-game winning streaks. They were projected in the preseason as favorites in their division and the entire American League.  They are still favorites in the division, but have fallen to second in the AL behind the hot-start Yankees. They are now two-games under .500 after opening May with back-to-back losses.

They finished April seventh by WAR:

Again, this is about what they were projected for entering the season. A good lineup with middling base running, and a good pitching staff with a porous defense behind them. It’s a well-rounded but not extraordinary group with greater strengths than weaknesses, and they are elevated by a weak division and league.

Now, it’s still early. I’ll have more commentary on the Mariners initial standing two Sundays from now when they breach the 40-game mark. Today, I want to discuss a few things that stood out in the season’s first split.

April Flowers

Cole Young steps forward

Cole Young has been good, or maybe great — depends who you ask.

FanGraphs lists Young at 0.8 WAR through April. That makes him the seventh most valuable second baseman in the majors, and just outside the top 50 for qualified position players. Good.

Baseball Reference lists Young at 1.9 WAR. That makes him not only the league’s best second baseman, but the fourth best position player in all of baseball. Great.

The difference comes down to defense. Baseball Reference uses Defensive Runs Saved (DRS). By that metric, Young has been the second best fielder in the majors. In fact, Young was named Sports Info Solutions Defensive Player of the Month for April in the American League. FanGraphs, on the other hand, uses Fielding Run Value (FRV) from Baseball Savant, which suggests Young has been about neutral on defense.

While the degree of success is up for debate, it’s a (small sample) success nonetheless. Last year, Young was awful on defense. It was a combination of bad hands, bad footwork, and a weak arm. This year, he seems to have fixed at least the first two points. His arm is somehow even weaker than before, but he’s now getting to grounders, collecting them into his glove, and throwing the ball accurately to first base. Kate Preusser did a great overview of Young’s improvements this spring, and those have indeed carried into the regular season.

It’s not just in the field. Young was the Mariners’ second best hitter in April, with a 125 wRC+ in 126 plate appearances. He’s maintained all the things he did well last year — pulling the ball in the air, drawing walks, and avoiding strikeouts. But he’s improved his quality of contact, with a 40.7% hard hit rate (pretty good) and a 40.7% launch angle sweet spot rate (outstanding).

As the chart shows, however, this isn’t quite new. Young hit equally well for a good chunk of last summer. The upsell is this isn’t simply a fluke. The downsell here is we’ve seen him collapse after doing this before. Still, a great season starts with a great month. Young is on his way.

The bottom of the order steps up

Young is one of several encouraging signs from the bottom of the Mariners order. Dominic Canzone picked up right where he left off last year, with a 142 wRC+ and some of the best contact quality in baseball. Luke Raley looks healthy again and has flashed extraordinary power, though he’s cooled in recent weeks. Randy Arozarena is in the midst of a classic hot streak (even if the rest is still quite frustrating).

The Mariners 1st and 5-9 hitters posted a combined 114 wRC+ in April, keeping the offense afloat while the middle of the order struggled. Julio Rodríguez, Cal Raleigh, and Josh Naylor each picked it up in the second half of the month, and the Mariners 127 wRC+ since April 10 is second best in baseball. This looks like one of the league’s top lineups once again.

Emerson Hancock steps at all

Perhaps more surprising than Young’s progress on defense is Emerson Hancock emerging as a quality mid-rotation starter, or as he showed Saturday, maybe even more. Hancock wasn’t good last year (or the year before) in the sixth starter role, and the Mariners often needed him to be. I’d honestly written him off — the stuff simply wasn’t there over a fairly large sample.

But in the latest example of “development isn’t linear,” Hancock suddenly found it in April. He had a 2.86 ERA, 4.60 FIP, and 3.46 xFIP in six starts. Sure, a pesky home run problem was still there, but he struck out batters, limited walks, and went deep into games for the first time in his career.

Michael Rosen outlined the changes for Hancock recently at FanGraphs. Basically, he’s the rare pitcher who, mid career, suddenly changed the way he’s physically throwing the ball. Stuff metrics love the changes, and the results have followed. That’s what’s so exciting about what would other wise be a small sample — it’s a lot easier to believe he’s changed when he literally has.

Now, I was going to note that Hancock’s stuff ticked down over his last to April starts. He still looked like a better pitcher than the last few years, but maybe more “reasonable improvement” than “new ace.” Then last night happened. Hancock struck out 14 batters and picked up 21 whiffs. It was an incredible, career-best performance for any pitcher, and that it was Hancock makes it borderline unbelievable. He is now fourth — fourth! — in the majors with a 25.2% K-BB rate. It’s a turnaround unlike anything I’ve witnessed.

April Showers

The rest of the rotation

The other starters haven’t been bad necessarily, and including them here isn’t quite fair. The Mariners’ rotation finished April in a four-way tie for eighth most fWAR in the majors. They also posted a league best 5.6% walk rate and were 1/3 of an inning behind the Dodgers for most innings pitched (181).

They also finished a disappointing 20th with a 21.2% strikeout rate. Strikeouts aren’t everything, but the tradeoff is more contact, and the Mariners have allowed the third worst hard hit rate in baseball. One of those should ideally change.

Again, it’s still an above average group, and there a lot of teams that would love to have this rotation. But it’s year four and five for Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, and Bryan Woo, and they don’t seem they’re any closer to actually being in the top tier of rotations. Mariners starters are 10th by fWAR since 2022; Mariners batters are ninth.

There are important questions ahead, with Hancock continuing to pitch well, Luis Castillo getting shelled, and Bryce Miller nearing completion of his third rehab stint in the last 365 days. The dynamic will shift soon.

The defense

All that hard contact allowed is not ideal for the defense behind them. It’s been dreadful, again. At the moment they’re tied for last in the majors by OAA.

The thing that jumps out most is Julio at -3 OAA (-2 FRV thanks to a nice throw). I don’t buy that he’s suddenly bad now. As I wrote in the preseason, fielders of his caliber (and age) should be good for a long time, and I expect his performance will even out over time. But this was indeed the worst month of his career in the outfield. He’s completed outs on just three of seven plays graded as “1 Star” by Baseball Savant (here, here, here, and here); he also missed a ball so easy it didn’t even get a star.

Now, if you click through those videos, I think you’ll see why I’m not concerned. It’s not like his range has suddenly disappeared (in fact, it’s slightly improved). There’s been weird weather, roofs, and a few misreads on tweeners. Julio has never been a guy like Pete Crow-Armstrong or Ceddanne Rafaela, where you’d expect him to fetch more than a handful of five-star catches in a season. Instead, Julio earns his keep as one of the most fundamentally sound route runners in the game, with the athleticism necessary to adjust on the fly. He made 81 of 84 plays graded one or to stars last year — he does the routine better than anybody. I expect that to return.

The rest? Awful. Dreadful. I don’t need to see anymore. I’ll always take offense over defense, and I continue to believe this is a top-10 group overall. But defense is where good fell short of great in 2025, and that’s likely the case again this year.

The short side

The Mariners finished April with an 81 wRC+ against lefties. There were a handful of strong performances from Arozarena, Young, Mitch Garver, and even J.P. Crawford. But there was still half a lineup that was simply non-competitive against lefties.

This isn’t a surprise. The Mariners best role players are lefties with strong platoon splits, and the plan was always to platoon and pinch hit. The issue is the Mariners have a 50 wRC+ in 31 plate appearances off the bench. The strategy simply hasn’t worked, again.

Of course, the Mariners are also fourth in the majors with a 113 wRC+ against righties in twice as many plate appearances. It’s a good lineup, if a vulnerable one.

As the Kansas City Chiefs continued their rookie minicamp on Saturday, we got our first chance to see fifth-round pick, former Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson on the field in a Chiefs uniform.

Although these are unpadded practices, head coach Andy Reid has seen enough to have a good, initial impression of the newcomer.

“Smart kid, good kid, and he’s got that lateral quickness,” said Reid, before comparing Johnson to another former player he used to coach. “I mean, we had LeSean McCoy here for a bit, and he’s got a little bit of that to him, where he can shift gears and still get himself upfield quickly.”

Reid went on to praise Johnson as a pass blocker and describe him as a natural pass catcher. It’s something the rookie back takes pride in, as he talked about during his press conference on Saturday.

“I can receive really well,” Johnson began. “That can help the offense. So, just having the ability to not just run the ball, but also catch and affect the game that way is something that I look forward to.”

Like all rookies, Johnson knows that job number one is to buckle down and learn the playbook.

“I do a great job of studying,” Johnson confidently shared. “I’m playing the NFL. I have no excuse for not knowing my assignment on the football field. So I take big pride in understanding what I have to do on the field to be successful.”

Johnson had a bit of a leg up on other players in his situation — he played for former NFL head coach Matt Rhule at Nebraska, and Johnson said that Rhule running the Cornhuskers’ football team like an NFL program helped prepare him for the last couple of days.

“The structure in college at Nebraska… showing up to meetings on time, being here early, being a pro is what coach Rhule says,” Johnson reflected.

But Johnson’s motivation also goes beyond what he learned at Nebraska. He gets it from his parents, who fled Liberia during a civil war to relocate to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where Johnson was born.

“Their story immigrating from Liberia… [it] just makes me want to wake up and go extremely hard for them,” Johnson stated. “They’re really proud of me, but at the end of the day, I’m in the NFL, but this is ground zero… I haven’t done anything yet, I’m just trying to work and earn the respect of my teammates and coaches right now.”

One of the primary coaches Johnson will have to win over is offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, who has a reputation for coaching his players hard. Which is something that Johnson says he loves.

“I love when he gets on me because I know he’s going to get the best out of me, and I’m going to make sure that I’m detailed in everything that I do,” Johnson declared. “He’s somebody who’s never really going to give you your flowers. He’s going to be on you, and that’s what I love out of [a] coach.”

To that point, Johnson said that although he hasn’t returned kicks since high school, he knows that special teams is a crucial phase of the game, and he’s willing to do “Whatever the team needs.”

Continuing, Johnson expounded on his statement, saying that, “If they need me to run down there on kickoff, that’s what I’ll do—kick return, gunner, whatever they need. I told coach I’m willing to do whatever it takes for the team to win.”

Johnson also isn’t afraid of a little bit of friendly competition. When he was asked about the strength of the Chiefs’ running back room, he showed nothing but excitement and anticipation.

“I love it, man,” Johnson said. “I’m playing with a Super Bowl MVP in Kenneth Walker and some other great guys. So, I just love playing against the best and competing with the best. I wouldn’t want it any other way. I want to be competing with the best. So, I love every second of it.”

Johnson is also not afraid of comparisons, which may be why he selected the recently vacated jersey No. 10, which was previously worn by former Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco and former wide receiver Tyreek Hill during their time with Kansas City.

“I had an opportunity to wear it,” Johnson acknowledged. “I got respect for the players that have worn this number in the past, but I’m trying to leave my legacy.”

Johnson’s birthday is also 10/10, so it also has a lot to do with why he wanted the number.

Listening to Johnson speak to the media, you can’t help but think that this is a guy who is the total package. He’s a guy you’d be hard-pressed to bet against.

There has been plenty of debate surrounding the future of Jon Rahm following the news that LIV Golf is facing a fight to secure funding from the end of the 2026 season.

There are real doubts over where LIV Golf will be in the coming years, with the news that the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia plan to withdraw their financial support for the league by the end of the year.

Given the money invested so far, it looks set to be incredibly difficult for Scott O’Neil to keep LIV alive. It is an extremely hard sell when you consider what the PIF spent for little reward.

Jon Rahm has a chance to prove just how much faith he has in LIV Golf this year

Bryson DeChambeau handed LIV a boost by claiming that he is planning to stay for as long as the league continues to exist. But many are waiting to see what Jon Rahm decides to do.

Rahm made no secret of the money being a factor in his decision to leave the PGA Tour. However, he now has an opportunity to prove just how much belief he had in the league when he shocked the world by signing in December 2023.

Certainly, his comments to David Feherty at his unveiling look very interesting now.

“I think the innovation and the vision of LIV Golf is what pushed me over to at least give it a chance and hear the pitch out. Ultimately, it ended up being what I guess I wanted to hear. I believe in the growth of the game of golf. I’ve largely spoken about how Seve improved the game of golf in Spain and how I would like to do the same thing over there. If I can reach a bigger audience there, it would be amazing. I do believe this process will help me do that,” he said.

“Even though it’s not a part of this sport, it is now, it’s the team aspect of things. Some of the biggest sporting events for the most part, people are following their teams. I myself growing up being a massive Athletic Bilbao fan, I realise that has a bit of an appeal, much more than I give credit to.”

Rahm’s decision could silence a lot of speculation about how much players care about LIV Golf

It has always been difficult to know just how genuine LIV golfers are being when they heap praise on the league. Many will have seen Graeme McDowell produce one of the most laughable comments in LIV history this week when discussing Smash’s rebrand to OKGC.

Some of the players clearly feel obliged to defend LIV at every opportunity. They bizarrely see themselves as some sort of underdog when it is surely the case that most would not have looked twice at signing had it not been for the astronomical riches on offer.

But the issue with that is it is nearly impossible to decipher what is true praise and what is bluster simply for the benefit of those who criticise the league.

Rahm has the chance to prove that the money was indeed not the main reason that he decided to sign with LIV. If he has a true belief in the league’s potential, he will surely follow DeChambeau’s lead and make sure that they look after the younger players who made a much riskier move.

The likes of Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood can continue to bang the drum for LIV. Their days of playing on the PGA Tour are surely over now, whatever happens next.

But Rahm could be about to face a decision that defines his career.

If he truly believed everything he said about LIV back in 2023, that decision is going to be a lot harder than many would think.

Sunrisers Hyderabad missed out on the chance to move top of the Indian Premier League, losing by seven wickets to Kolkata Knight Riders.

Having chosen to bat, Sunrisers collapsed from 105-1 to 165 all out with an over to spare.

After losing Abhishek Sharma for 15, Travis Head (61) and Ishan Kishan (42) shared a second-wicket partnership of 61, before the former's wicket halted Sunrisers' innings.

No subsequent batter scored more than 11, while Head was the first of three batters to fall to leg-spinner Varun Chakravarthy (3-36).

Kolkata captain Ajinkya Rahane (43) and Angkrish Raghuvanshi (59) put on 84 for the second wicket in their side's reply as they eased towards their target.

Both batters fell, but Rinku Singh (22) and Cameron Green (3) ensured the visitors reached their target with 10 balls remaining.

Sunrisers sit third with six wins from 10 games, while Kolkata remain eighth having won three of their nine matches.

Scorecard; Table

VJ Edgecombe delivered a decisive performance as the Philadelphia 76ers completed their turnaround against the Boston Celtics last Saturday.

The rookie scored 23 points in the 109-100 win in Boston, helping seal one of the most remarkable comebacks of the postseason.

His composure stood out on the high-pressure stage.

And while the result itself carried weight, Edgecombe’s individual display added further significance. His shooting performance placed him into a rare category in NBA playoff history.

VJ Edgecombe joins Lu Dort in rare Game 7 shooting record

According to StatMuse, Edgecombe became just the second rookie in NBA history to hit five or more three-pointers in a Game 7. He is only the second player ever to reach that mark.

The only other name on that list is Oklahoma City Thunder guard Luguentz Dort. That places Edgecombe in elite company at an early stage of his career.

Against Boston, the 20-year-old shot 45% from beyond the arc. He converted five of his 11 attempts, showing confidence throughout the contest. He also added two free throws and three two-point baskets to round off his scoring.

Edgecombe justifies high draft expectations

Edgecombe’s impact reflects his status as the third overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Only Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper were selected ahead of him.

He entered the season with strong expectations and quickly established himself as a Rookie of the Year contender.

Although he finished third in the voting behind Flagg and Kon Knueppel, his campaign remained highly productive.

Edgecombe averaged 16 points, 5.6 rebounds and 4.2 assists during the regular season.

Read more:

Welp! An Atlanta Braves outfielder is going on the IL — just not the one who had apparently been close to making a trip to the IL for this past week. Instead of Michael Harris II taking that trip, it’ll be Ronald Acuña Jr. after he strained his left hamstring leaving the batter’s box during Saturday’s win over the Rockies.

Acuña has officially been placed on the 10-day IL and outfielder José Azócar has been called up in order to fill Acuña’s spot on the roster for the time being.

Of course, how long Acuña ends up being out depends on the severity of the strain. If it’s a Grade 1 strain then this should just be a straight-up 10-day stint on the IL. We know it’s probably not a Grade 3 strain since that likely would’ve qualified as a tear and Grade 2 might require a somewhat extended absence with a rehab stint involved. So yeah, here’s hoping that it’s just Grade 1 since that wouldn’t be too awful — and also another truly severe leg injury the last thing Acuña needs in his career at the moment.

More to add later…

The New York Mets have fallen to the worst record in Major League Baseball after a loss to the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday and their brutal season hit a new low in another way as well.

Amid disappointing debuts for a range of new stars and persistent injury issues, highly touted infielder Ronny Mauricio suffered a fractured thumb and will be joining fellow shortstop Francisco Lindor on the injured list for a prolonged stint.

“Already facing the prospect of an extended absence for starting shortstop Francisco Lindor, the Mets on Saturday lost his backup, Ronny Mauricio, to a fractured left thumb,” Anthony DiComo wrote for MLB.com. “With Lindor sidelined until at least late May and possibly June, Mauricio had been starting nearly every day at shortstop.”

MORE FROM FORBESRed Sox Infielder Offers 2-Word Response On Blue Jays Death ThreatsBy Peter Chawaga

New York Mets Face Bo Bichette Decision After Shortstop Injury

However, for Mets fans seeking a silver lining as the season barrels even further off the rails, there could be some solace in the most likely shortstop replacement move for the team following the injury.

“In the absence of both Lindor and Mauricio, Bo Bichette is the most logical candidate to slide over to shortstop, his natural position,” DiComo added.

After signing a three-year, $126 million contract to join the Mets, Bichette has been moved to third base for the first time in his career. Defensively, it seems he has been adjusting pretty well, but he has struggled at the plate along with most of his new teammates and it’s possible that a move back to his old position could help matters.

In seven seasons as the Toronto Blue Jays’ everyday shortstop, Bichette was the American League hits leader in two different seasons, earned two All-Star nods and saw four seasons of MVP Award votes. Perhaps a return to the defensive role he held with his old team could make him more comfortable at the plate as the Mets seek some momentum.

MORE FROM FORBESYankees’ Former Starter Cut By NL Contender Shortly After Perfect InningBy Peter Chawaga

New York Mets’ Infielder Bo Bichette Offers Response On Returning To Toronto Blue Jays Position

For his part, Bichette offered a clear four-word response to the idea of returning to his Blue Jays role for Mets following Mauricio’s injury.

“Whatever the team needs,” Bichette said, per ESPN.

Ultimately, what the Mets need more than anything from Bichette is a return to his typical offensive form. He is slashing just .238/.279/.323, well below his career averages. If he can turn things around offensively following a defensive return to comfort, perhaps his team can derive a positive from this latest setback.

The Mets can also consider calling up Eric Wagaman, Christian Arroyo, Jackson Cluff or Vidal Brujan to fill in for Mauricio.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

The Philadelphia 76ers made history by defeating the Boston Celtics in Game 7 of their NBA playoff series.

On Saturday, May 2, the Sixers claimed a 109-100 victory in Boston. It marked the first time in 33 opportunities the legendary Celtics franchise blew a 3-1 series lead. Philadelphia entered 0-18 when trailing 3-1.

Philadelphia center Joel Embiid returned from injury earlier in the series to put up 34 points, 12 rebounds and six assists in the stunning triumph. Tyrese Maxey pitched in with 30 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists.

MORE: LeBron James makes defiant statement against Kendrick Perkins with Lakers win

But after the game, Embiid turned his focus to the 76ers’ next opponent, the New York Knicks. Furthermore, he urged Philly fans to refrain from selling tickets to Knicks supporters, per Barstool Sports.

“I just have a message for our fans. The last time we played the Knicks it felt like this was Madison Square Garden East. We’re going to need your support. Don’t sell your tickets. This is bigger than you,” Embiid said.

Recent history remembered

The third-seeded Knicks are favored against the seventh-seeded 76ers in the second-round series. The teams split their four regular-season meetings.

Two years ago, New York defeated Philadelphia in six games in a first-round series. The Knicks even clinched the series on the road after Sixers ownership tried to prevent New York fans from purchasing tickets.

With tongue in cheek, Embiid even offered to pitch in to help out any Sixers fan tempted to use tickets for financial gain.

“There’s going to be some people that need the money,” he said. “But don’t do it. … If you need money, I got you.”

Finally, New York hosts Game 1 against Philadelphia at 8 p.m. ET Monday on NBC and Peacock. The first contest in Philadelphia is Game 3 at 7 p.m. ET Friday.

The suspension of midfielder André, who was sent off in the last round of the Brazilian Championship against Vasco, has opened up an opportunity for Allan in Corinthians’ starting lineup for this Sunday’s (3) clash against Mirassol.

According to UOL, the defensive midfielder is highly regarded by coach Fernando Diniz and could earn a run of games as a starter for the black-and-white side.

Allan already worked with Diniz at Fluminense in 2019 and appeals to the coach because of his characteristics.

UOL has learned that Diniz even considered bringing Allan in to replace André in the previous Libertadores match against Peñarol, but chose to keep the youngster in the starting lineup on that occasion.

The internal assessment is that Allan is currently in better form than André, which justifies the tactical change.

In addition to André, Corinthians will face Mirassol with a considerable list of absences.

Center-back Gustavo Henrique and midfielder André Carrillo are also suspended.

In the medical department, Timão will be without João Pedro Tchoca, Charles, Vitinho, and Memphis.

Interestingly, Raniele, another midfielder, could be used out of position at right-back for the match as the team looks to adjust its setup in light of the absences.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

England's Alice Hewson made four birdies in eight holes on the back nine of the MCB Ladies Classic final round but her late charge was in vain as Smilla Soenderby claimed the title at Belle Mare Plage in Mauritius.

The 28-year-old's back nine of 32 gave her a closing 67 and got her to 10 under par for the Ladies European Tour (LET) event - but the two final groups held their nerve and it was Soenderby who claimed the title.

The Dane birdied the 18th to thrillingly claim the inaugural MCB Ladies Classic by one stroke from Kajsa Arwefjall and Casandra Alexander.

Soenderby, 25, began her final round poorly, dropping a shot at the par-5 4th - but bounced back with an eagle three at another par 5 two holes later and picked up a further stroke at the 9th.

She birdied 10, 13 and 15 but gave one back to the field at 14 before making the decisive birdie on the risk-reward par-5 18th to card a 67 that got her to 14 under and ended Arwefjall and Alexander's hopes of a play-off.

"Thank you to my mum who has been with me as my caddy this week. It has been so special and we will remember it forever," said Soenderby, whose previous win on the LET was at the 2023 KPMG Women's Irish Open.

"It has been an amazing event and I hope we come back here! I really enjoyed the Legend course and I'm so happy with this win."

Sweden's Arwefjall made six birdies and avoided any dropped shots in her closing 66, which set a stiff clubhouse target of 13 under.

Alexander then eagled the last to match Arwefjall - an aptly thrilling end to a rollercoaster round of 67 by the South Africa that also included six birdies but also a double bogey and two bogeys.

Hewson, from Hertfordshire, dropped a shot at the 5th but also made two other birdies on the front nine as she finished in a five-way tie for fifth.

The two-time Curtis Cup player - who has three LET wins in her career, including two in Switzerland - was part of a strong English showing in Mauritius.

Lianna Bailey earned herself a share of 12th with rounds of 70, 69 and 70 while her fellow English player Ellen Hume was a shot back.

Another Englishwoman, the in-form Esme Hamilton, shot a final-round 71 for a five-under total alongside Ireland's Anna Foster, who carded a fine closing 68.

Lily May Humphreys finished with a second successive level-par 72 for a four-under tournament total, while Jess Baker got to two under with her best round of the week, a 69.

Anna Zanusso of Italy made four consecutive birdies on the front nine in an outward half of 32 then came back in a blistering 31 shots to set a new ladies' course record of 63 on the Legend course at Belle Mare Plage to finish fourth.

Agathe Laisne of France, who had opened the tournament with a majestic course-record 64 and is chasing a Solheim Cup debut in September, closed with a 69 for a share of fifth.

Mohamed Diomande believes Rangers will need to produce their best performance of the season to beat William Hill Premiership leaders Hearts on Monday night.

With four fixtures remaining, Danny Rohl's side head to Tynecastle four points behind the Jambos and with the title out of their hands following a damaging 3-2 defeat by Motherwell at Ibrox last weekend.

Asked if Rangers will need to put in their best display of the campaign to give their title hopes a shot in the arm, midfielder Diomande said: "Yes we will. We need to put on a massive performance and work hard.

"It might not come easy for us, but we'll do everything to win the game. I believe we will win the game. We might not just win games by doing what the coach taught us or the tactical things we work on before.

"It will depend on ourselves. If Hearts or the other teams are going to play dirty, we need to stand up. Maybe we don't have to think about the tactical play and just fight.

"If that's what we need to win the game, we have to do it. It's about character and standing up for ourselves. It won't come easy. Fighting for it will be the most important thing."

The Ivory Coast international admitted the home defeat to Motherwell "wasn't the best" but says his side can't give up now.

"We have four more games to play that we're looking to win," he said. "We're really motivated to do so.

"It's disappointing because we know far behind we were, 13 points (when Rohl took over last October).

"We came back to one and now it's four again. We know what's happened before and we don't have many games left. Every minute will be very important now. Last Sunday, the first 45 were very disappointing.

"But we're still in it so we'll do everything to beat our direct opponents, who are also trying to win the league, to be champions."

Celebrations are taking place across the city after Cambridge United secured automatic promotion from League Two.

A goalless draw at Crewe Alexandra secured a place for Neil Harris's team in League One on Saturday.

Supporters travelling back from Cheshire described a mix of relief and excitement, with a missed penalty from Ben Knight adding late drama before celebrations began at full-time.

Speaking after the game, fan Nadine Gooding said: "We've got a two-and-a-half-hour drive home with our three kids - chanting all the way. Maybe trying not to explain some of the swear words we heard in the game.

"It's an amazing result. Very excited, very happy that we're in League One next year.

"We didn't do it the easy way. I genuinely didn't think we were going to do it."

Andy Bourne described the game as a "nerve-wracking" end to a "pretty strong season".

"It's all sinking in to be honest. How did we not score? I don't know, but the job is done, so brilliant," he said.

"It's going to be tough in League One, but I think if we regroup, especially if we've got Harris, we should do alright."

'Emotionally draining'

Adrian Brown has been a United supporter for about 30 years and also praised the manager.

"It was an absolutely terrible game. They gave it to us, I think, rather than us winning it," he said.

"Over the season though, I think we deserved it, maybe even deserved better. Some results could have gone our way and didn't."

John and Nicola Bowyer said the game was "emotionally and mentally draining" for fans.

"Typical Cambridge United — nervy finish. We always do things the hard way," the pair said.

"I've been a fan since I was about six, it's never easy. You've got to bottle these moments and relive them," they added.

"I'm so pleased for the players, for Neil Harris, and for the club. They've restructured things really well. It's a brilliant day for us."

'Need a striker'

Michael Charge, who had travelled from Malta to support the team, said he was "delighted" and "buzzing" at the return to the third flight, having been relegated last year.

"It was nail-biting, an emotional rollercoaster. I'll head back to my hotel tonight and fly back tomorrow. I'm looking forward to League One, even if it costs me a bit more in travel," he said.

"Harris has done the job. We had doubts when he came back, but you can't ask for more than promotion.

"Next year though, we need a striker. Someone who can score goals. None of us want to go through that again."

Coach Neil Harris told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire "it was a tough game" and that he is "proud of the team".

"We weren't the better team, but we had the better chances, even in the 96th minute, to win it outright," he said.

Earlier this year, the club said it was "open-minded" about moving to a new stadium in the long-term, if redevelopment of their Abbey Stadium was not possible.

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Jordan Wright says the belief instilled in the Newport County squad by head coach Christian Fuchs' was pivotal in ensuring the Exiles preserved their League Two status.

Newport were four points adrift of safety when the former Austria international was named as Dave Hughes' successor at Rodney Parade in November.

But the Exiles clinched survival on the final day of the 2025-26 season as they came from behind to win 2-1 at Barrow.

Discussing the impact of 2015-16 Premier League winner Fuchs, Wright told BBC Radio Wales Sport: "He's just brought that belief, he's done it at the highest level, he's won the highest thing you can win in English football.

"He's just brought that to the team. He just said, 'Lads, we're a good group, we've got good players and just believe in yourselves'.

"We've believed in ourselves and look what's happened. It's unbelievable."

Wright added: "I think we've shown in games in the past two or three months that we've been unbelievable.

"If we find that rhythm and put it in the back of the net more often, we'll win so many more games. The group of lads and staff that we've got, it's an unreal group.

"You can tell just how much it means to everyone."

Charlie McCann gave Barrow an early lead at SO Legal Stadium, and the hosts had the chance to go 2-0 up when they were awarded a penalty early on in the second half.

But Josh Gordon was well denied by Wright from 12 yards out before Tom Davies and Bobby Kamwa struck late on to earn the visitors a precious victory.

On his crucial penalty save, Wright said: "Any 'keeper would say they're just doing their job. You prepare for it, and if it happens, it happens.

"I go through it, I do the home work and luckily it's paid off today.

"I've watched his pens and I knew what he would do with his run up.

"I thought if I just lean, my legs are long enough to try and save it."

Makai Lemon is stepping into a tense situation in Philadelphia with the Eagles, but tense does not necessarily mean bad. It's just an uncertain dynamic in which fans, players and coaches don't fully know what to expect. Amid the uncertainty, however, optimism exists. The replacement of 2025 offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo with Sean Mannion has quarterback Jalen Hurts and other Eagles excited, as Eagles Wire notes:

"The Sean Mannion era is underway in Philadelphia. The former NFL quarterback, who has been promoted to rising offensive coordinator, has earned glowing remarks from two of his most important players in the first two months on the Eagles' coaching staff. Star right tackle Lane Johnson joined Jalen Hurts in praising Mannion's offensive approach, highlighting the Shanahan/McVay factors in the offense.

"Hurts praised new Eagles offensive coordinator Sean Mannion, calling him "amazing" and saying he's excited for what's ahead, adding the two have already been in communication. During a sit-down with Ryan Fitzpatrick and Andrew Whitworth, Johnson echoed those sentiments while hinting at playing less one-on-one on the outside at offensive tackle.

"A former NFL quarterback and 2015 third-round pick, Mannion, 33, played four seasons with the Rams, three seasons with the Vikings, and one season in Seattle with the Seahawks as a backup quarterback. Mannion is widely credited with playing an instrumental role in Malik Willis's development, who went from a bust in Tennessee to a $67.5 million contract with the Dolphins."

Sean Mannion played quarterback at Oregon State and faced USC. Now he will try to help USC's award-winning first-round draft pick to thrive in the NFL.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Sean Mannion could be the key to Makai Lemon's career with Eagles

Many predicted Brentford to go down this season, but instead they are on the cusp of European qualification.

A very specific permutation would allow Brentford - or whoever grabs sixth place - to sneak into Europe's premier competition rather than the Europa League.

The Premier League secured an extra Champions League spot back in April, meaning the top five teams will qualify for the league stage of next year's competition.

Sixth would also get a team into next season's Champions League if Aston Villa win the Europa League and finish fifth in the Premier League.

Because of the order in which Champions League berths are decided - European titles are allocated before the Premier League's additional spot - sixth will not be good enough for the Champions League if Aston Villa win the Europa League and finish in the Premier League top four.

Instead, Villa will qualify via their league position and the place reserved for the Europa League winners will be passed to the league champions in qualifying with the best Uefa coefficient.

That could be Rangers, if they win the Scottish Premiership.

Therefore, Brentford fans should be keeping a keen eye on Villa's Europa League semi-final tie against Nottingham Forest.

Unai Emery's side lost the first leg 1-0, but will be playing at home for the second leg on Thursday night.

The winner will face either Braga or Freiburg in the Europa League final on 20 May.

Read Joe Rindl's full piece here

The Knicks are playing some of their best basketball at the right time. After a decisive 140-89 win that closed out a first round series win against the Atlanta Hawks, New York is in the second round for the fourth consecutive year. The Knicks’ Semifinals opponent, the Philadelphia 76ers, just completed a stunning comeback from a 3-1 first round series deficit against the Boston Celtics on Saturday night. 

With the series opener on Monday at Madison Square Garden, let’s dive into keys to the game. 

Containing Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid

The 76ers have one of the better tandems in the NBA in Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid. Both players are more formidable than any of the Atlanta Hawks players New York defended in the first round.

Maxey has continued to grow as an undeniable offensive talent. He was phenomenal in the first round, averaging 26.9 points on 47 percent from the field in seven games. In the closeout game, Maxey knifed into the lane a couple of times late to seal the series for Philadelphia.

Mikal Bridges will likely get the primary assignment on Philadelphia’s All-Star point guard at the beginning of the series. OG Anunoby and Josh Hart should be in the mix as well. Also, expect Miles McBride and Jose Alvarado to see time defending Maxey. Covering the 6-2 guard will be difficult, because of his blur-like quickness both in the halfcourt and in transition. He’s also a quality three-point shooter, knocking down 41.8 percent of his 55 long distance attempts against the Celtics.

Though Embiid missed the start of the playoffs because he was recovering from an emergency appendectomy, he quickly found his groove mid-series. Embiid is a skilled big with a near automatic midrange jumper. One of Embiid’s best skills is his ability to get to the free-throw line. 

In his four playoff games against Boston, Embiid attempted 37 freebies in 146 minutes. New York likely will rely on Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson to guard Embiid throughout the series. It will be imperative for both big men to avoid picking up silly fouls. The Knicks need both Towns and Robinson on the floor as much as possible for this series. 

Both 76ers stars are hard to stop, but New York proved in the first round that its defense can hit another gear with improved defense from Towns and wings Anunoby, Hart, and Bridges caused chaos with a frantic style of defense.

Dominating the glass

One area that Philadelphia has struggled with over the past few years has been defensive rebounding. This season, the 76ers ranked just 26th in defensive rebound rate (67.8 percent) according to NBA Stats. Over the last three years, the 76ers have never ranked higher than 25th. It was a big factor in New York’s first round series win against Philadelphia two years ago.

New York has been a good offensive rebounding team mainly because of Robinson, who is a force to reckon with on the offensive glass. The Knicks big man is second in offensive rebound rate during the playoffs among players that have been on the floor for at least 60 minutes according to NBA Stats.

However, the 76ers did a solid job in the first round, preventing the Boston Celtics from overwhelming them with extra possessions. The Celtics finished top-five in the category this season but Philadelphia held them to just 12th out of 16 teams during the first round.

Extra possessions will help the Knicks limit transition scoring opportunities, and could exhaust a 76ers team that should be weary after expending significant energy in the opening round.

Getting Brunson going early

One of the top priorities for the Knicks will be getting Jalen Brunson in a rhythm.

The first round was a tale of two cities for Brunson, who averaged 26.3 points and 6.2 assists. After the Knicks offense bogged down in the first three games, there was a concerted effort to have Brunson play off the ball more, which worked tremendously. Brunson’s average seconds per touch dropped from 6.21 in the first three games to 5.38 from Game 4 to Game 6, according to NBA Stats.

The Knicks need to keep that focus for the second round to keep Philadelphia’s defense on its toes. The 76ers have a variety of defenders to throw at Brunson. Forward Kelly Oubre gave the Knicks point guard problems in the 2024 playoffs. Rookie VJ Edgecombe and former Knick Quentin Grimes also will surely have time defending Brunson.

A good start on Monday night from Brunson will help the Knicks build some early momentum.

Arne Slot has indicated when he’s hopeful of having Alisson Becker and Alexander Isak back available for Liverpool.

Both players are absent for the Reds’ visit to Manchester United this afternoon, with the goalkeeper continuing his recovery from a hamstring injury and the Swedish striker missing out at Old Trafford due to a minor groin problem.

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Such is the extent of the absentes today that third-choice stopper Freddie Woodman starts for the second weekend in a row, while our substitutes’ bench against the Red Devils contains no fewer than six under-21 players.

Slot gives injury updates on Alisson and Isak

Prior to kick-off at Old Trafford, Slot spoke to Jamie Carragher for Sky Sports and indicated that he’s hopeful of having both Alisson and Isak back for the home match against Chelsea next weekend.

The Liverpool head coach said: “It wasn’t much [Isak’s injury], but it was too much for him to be able to play [today], and Alisson hasn’t trained with us yet.

“We’re hoping for him to be ready next week, but we have to wait and see how the week will go, and the same can be said about Alex. We’re hoping to have him back next week.”

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Alisson and Isak should hopefully be back to face Chelsea

The Man United game was always likely to come a little too soon for Alisson, especially as he’s yet to resume full training, but Woodman showed against Crystal Palace last weekend that he’s a more than capable deputy.

However, Isak’s absence today is a big blow, especially with Liverpool already deprived of Hugo Ekitike and Mo Salah, and a tactical reshuffle sees Cody Gakpo move to centre-forward with Florian Wirtz expected to start on the left wing.

It continues the tale of frustration for the Reds’ record signing, who’s not long back from four months out with a broken leg and seemed to be getting back into his stride after scoring against the Eagles.

Alas, he’ll need to start all over again whenever he’s cleared for a return to action, which hopefully will be at home to Chelsea next Saturday in a match that we might need to win to keep the chasing pack for Champions League football at bay.

It’s hugely disappointing not to have Alisson and Isak today, but at least Slot’s update suggests that both should be back available sooner rather than later.

A win this afternoon against Hibernian brought Celtic level on points with league leaders Hearts, who will host Rangers on Monday night at Tynecastle. Jamie McGrath’s marching order early into the game boosted the Bhoys, yet they had to rely on ‘super sub’ Kelechi Iheanacho’s second-half strike to edge past Hibs at Easter Road.

Below are the Celtic players rated in their 2-1 win against Hibernian.

Viljami Sinisalo: 6

Should have done better to stop Joe Newell’s goal from a set-piece situation that brought the ten-man hosts back in the game against the run of play.

Alistair Johnston: 8

Returned to the starting XI after an impressive cameo last weekend against Falkirk. The Canadian made his presence known with overlapping runs and crosses. Also, set it up for Daizen Maeda, who found the net from a very close range late in the first half. Made way for Luke McCowan just over the hour mark.

Auston Trusty: 7

Showed his composure at the back, as he dominated the aerial duels and made several no-nonsense clearances against the home side’s centre-forward pair of Martin Boyle and Owen Elding.

Liam Scales: 6

The set-piece, leading to Hibernian’s equaliser, originated from his careless pass. Struggled during the duels and dribbling attempts despite completing the most passes in the match.

Kieran Tierney: 7.5

Tried to balance his game between attack and defence, as he had to be careful with the home side’s counter-attacks, regardless of being a man down for the majority of the contest. His corner led to Iheanacho’s goal that secured three crucial points in the title hunt.

Callum McGregor: 7

Another routine display from the skipper who controlled the tempo from the base as a deep-lying playmaker. McGrath’s dismissal made his job easy due to a few attacking threats from David Gray’s men.

Arne Engels: 6.5

Carried the ball forward from the deep to operate in the advanced areas. Played a few passes into the final third but failed to make a difference from set-pieces, unlike their opponents.

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND – MAY 03: Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the William Hill Premiership match between Hibernian and Celtic at Easter Road on May 03, 2026 in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)

Hyun-Jun Yang: 6.5

Started the game slowly but improved with time, as he created the most opportunities from the right-hand flank. Was wasteful up top in terms of converting the opportunities before making way for Iheanacho around the 70th-minute mark.

Benjamin Nygren: 6

The Swedish ‘number 10′ spent most of his time up top as a second striker to break Hibs’ resilience in the defensive third. Saw his efforts blocked and also missed a golden opportunity of finding the net. Was rather at fault during Hibernian’s equalising goal moments before the half-time whistle. Made way for Anthony Ralston late in the match.

Sebastian Tounekti: 6

Was restored to the starting XI for his impressive cameo against the Bairns. But the Tunisian failed to impress, as his needless foul led to the spot-kick that eventually ended up in Celtic’s net following a set-piece. Was taken off for James Forrest just over the hour mark.

Daizen Maeda: 7.5

Regained his scoring touch, as he exhibited his poaching skills to break the deadlock at the backend of the first half. Martin O’Neill must be boosted by his late form, as the Japanese ace would be pivotal to their battle for silverware.

Celtic Subs vs Hibernian

Luke McCowan: 6.5

Was lively with his runs and movements, but failed to make any significant impact.

James Forrest: 6.5

Was more direct and decisive with his runs in and around the attacking third.

Kelechi Iheanacho: 7.5

Showed his exquisite scoring ability, as he made no mistake to find the net when the ball fell favourably into his path following Tierney’s corner.

Successfully defended the one-goal margin during the final quarter of the tie.

One of the unsung stars of Barcelona’s campaign clinched his latest Man of the Match award in the club’s latest outing.

The player in question? Joan García.

Barcelona were of course back in action on Saturday evening, making the trip to Osasuna for a La Liga clash.

When all was said and done, the Blaugrana emerged on the right side of a hard-fought 2-1 result, to take another huge step towards the La Liga title.

Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres took the headlines post-match, after netting Barca’s two key goals at El Sadar.

It was the man at the other end of the pitch, though, who again proved himself decisive for Hansi Flick’s troops.

Joan García has of course taken to life in Barcelona colours like a duck to water, since taking his talents to Catalunya’s capital from Espanyol last summer.

Whilst the likes of Lamine Yamal and Pedri so often take the plaudits, the shot-stopper has been nothing short of essential in his new club’s charge towards a 2nd successive league title.

And Joan was back at it once again on Saturday, producing a number of top-class saves to hold Osasuna to a solitary goal.

Few, in turn, could have argued with the decision to afford the ‘MVP’ for the evening to the talented Spaniard:

Conor Laird – GSFN

Real Sociedad defender Jon Martin has addressed his future, following talk that Barcelona and Real Madrid are interested. The 20-year-old centre-back has asserted himself as a key player for La Real this season, and is regarded as one of the premier defensive talents in Spain.

It was rumoured back in March that Real Madrid scouts were closely following the progress of the Spain under-21 international, while Barcelona’s interest emerged in April. Director of Football Deco has reportedly met with the agent of Martin to find out more about his contract situation – in October he signed a new deal until 2031 with a €50m release clause.

‘I want to be here as long as possible’ – Jon Martin

Speaking to Diario AS in a recent interview, Martin was asked about the transfer talk, and assured that he had no intention of leaving Real Sociedad.

“I’m clear about it. I want to be here as long as possible, I want to be here, at home, because this is the place that has given me everything. I’m at peace and I hope to be here for many years and win many titles like the Cup.”

Martin is aware of Barcelona and Real Madrid talk

Despite his youth, Martin seemed entirely unfazed by the idea of Real Madrid or Barcelona being interested in him.

“It’s impossible not to hear about it because everyone’s talking about it. You’re away from it, and whether you like it or not, you see it; even my friends tell me because they’re out there all day looking at things. It inevitably reaches you, but like I said, I’m still focused on working with Real Sociedad.”

“I’ve seen a few things; a lot of things are said, but I don’t know anything and I’m not worried about it, to be honest. My plan is what I’ve already said: to focus on Real Sociedad. That’s right, absolutely,” he responded when asked if La Real fans could be relaxed about his future.

Martin has played 28 times for Real Sociedad this season, scoring once. Of those appearances, 27 were starts, and he played a key role in their Copa del Rey triumph last month.

THUN, Switzerland (AP) — Swiss soccer finally got its surprise champion Sunday in unheralded Thun, sealing a title to compare with Leicester’s long-shot Premier League win in 2016.

Thun clinched a first Swiss league title in the club’s 128-year history — despite losing games on the past two Saturdays — when second-place St. Gallen dropped points in a 3-0 loss hosting Sion.

That left Thun, coached by former star forward Mauro Lustrinelli, 11 points clear with three rounds to go.

The title came in Thun’s first season back in the top tier after five years in the second division. The team from a central Switzerland town of 45,000 people also never won a Swiss Cup title.

The final step was a nervous one for Thun when victory in either of its past two games would have confirmed the title. A 3-1 loss Saturday at defending champion Basel, ending with nine players after two red cards, followed a 1-0 loss at home to Lugano one week earlier.

Thun has a long path to competing with Europe's elite in the next Champions League, where the club made an unlikely appearance in 2005 after being runner-up in the Swiss league.

The champion of Switzerland now enters the second qualifying round of the Champions League in July — starting two days after the World Cup final. Thun needs to beat three opponents to advance to the main phase.

Thun is unlikely to have any player selected for a World Cup squad though 20-year-old midfielder Ethan Meichtry is a Switzerland Under-21 international with a bright future.

___

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

Nico Iamaleava will be back as UCLA’s starting quarterback this season. He has a chance to make a name for himself in the NCAA after battling through an adversity-filled 2025 season.

UCLA head coach Bob Chesney is going into his first season with the Bruins. Chesney led James Madison to its first College Football Playoff berth last season and will look to do the same with UCLA in 2026. 

In an interview on “The Jim Rome Show”, Chesney highlighted Iamaleava’s versatility as a big strength ahead of the 2026 season. 

“This kid could do it all,” Chesney said. “He can push the ball vertically down the field. When it’s time to pull the ball down and run he is as electric as any quarterback right now in college football.”

Iamaleava Is A Leader For the Bruins

Chesney also revealed that Iamaleava’s teammates view him as a strong leader. Chesney said UCLA recently held a “leadership vote”, and Iamaleava was the clear frontrunner among his teammates.

“He’s a leader. I look back a lot of times about what these guys just went through. Nico did not show up here until halfway through the summer, maybe more than that,” Chesney said of Iamaleava. “He got started and within the first three weeks of the season, the offensive coordinator was gone, the head coach was gone, the quarterbacks coach was gone.”

“To be able to keep it together speaks volumes of his leadership and just his mental toughness,” Chesney said. “He loves this game though. He is passionate about this game, his mouth doesn’t stop running when he makes a play against the defense, they don’t stop yelling back at him. It’s just a fun environment.”

As UCLA prepares to enter a new era with Chesney, Iamaleava’s leadership will be an invaluable asset for the Bruins. 

Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The post UCLA’s Bob Chesney Praises Nico Iamaleava’s Leadership Amid Adversity Last Season appeared first on LA Sports Report.

This year's Derby meant something to Cherie Devaux.

Before Golden Tempo crossed the line to make Devaux the first woman trainer to win the Kentucky Derby, Devaux seemed to experience every emotion that comes with wanting something so bad ... and having no control over the outcome.

As one camera focused on Devaux showed, the 44-year-old practically willed her 23-1 long-shot to victory with shouts of excitement as Golden Tempo made up ground in the stretch run and won at the wire. From defeat to pure bliss, and everything in between, it's all there in Devaux's live reaction. And you can almost feel it for yourself watching her.

For the first time in 152 years — HISTORY IS MADE!!!

Trainer Cherie DeVaux watches Golden Tempo and Jose Ortiz get up at the wire to win the Kentucky Derby at odds of 23-1.

🎥: Reaction footage owned by America’s Best Racing. @reredevaux | @jose93_ortiz | @PhippsStableFanpic.twitter.com/mnlTQw1sX7

— America'sBestRacing (@ABRLive) May 3, 2026

That was so good.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Cherie Devaux live reaction to Golden Tempo Derby run was electric

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National League: Rochdale take early lead over Scunthorpe; Boreham Wood beat 10-man Carlisle

Alexander Blockx emerges as a new name to watch in the ATP Tour after an impressive run

Blockx’s tournament run helped him climb up in the ATP rankings, as he moved from 38th place to 30th.

The Belgian, who has been ranked as high as number 20 in the world, later spoke about the significance of his semifinal appearance in Madrid.

Zverev beat Blockx in straight sets, 6-2, 7-5, to set up a final showdown with world number one Jannik Sinner.

Blockx later posted on Instagram: “Two weeks that will stay with me for a very long time! Crazy good level from @alexzverev123 today, simply too good. Hope to be back next year @mutuamadridopen.”

This year’s Madrid Open was the fifth time Blockx has competed at an ATP Masters 1000 event. He made his first appearance at the Miami Open in 2025 and has since played in Canada, Cincinnati, Monte-Carlo and Madrid.

Alexander Blockx praises Alexander Zverev’s well-rounded game

In his post-match press conference, Blockx had plenty of praise for Zverev, saying: “I think he has a very complete game.

“He serves really well. He returns really well. I felt a lot of pressure from the beginning already of the match and, yeah, I think he deserves to be in the final here. He was just better today, and that’s all I can say.

“I tried to, yeah, keep my serve up, as I did in the last matches. In the rally I tried a bit of everything.

“I tried to hold the rally, I tried to be aggressive, I tried to open up the court. I felt like he had an answer to everything. But, yeah, I just need to improve everything I’m doing now to hopefully have a chance the next time.”

Zverev will now attempt to snap an eight-match losing streak against Sinner – whom he has not beaten since 2023 – in Sunday’s final.

Read more:

The big day for all Inter fans has arrived: Inter, with a point against Parma, will celebrate the 21st Scudetto in their history, capping an incredible season with a triumph that, aside from a few inevitable slip-ups, was never truly in doubt.

Watch all Serie BKT matches live on OneFootball for just €9.99 per month. Click here to buy the LaB Channel Monthly Pass with no automatic renewal.

The fever in the city and throughout the whole environment is already palpable, with the long Nerazzurri day having begun in the early afternoon. 

Article constantly being updated: for live text commentary, click on the match card above; to comment, click on the speech bubble at the top right

🔥 Fans in the square, Calha starts “stitching it on”

Many Nerazzurri fans are already in Piazza Duomo, the site of the celebration for Inter supporters, as reported by Sportitalia. 

Hakan Calhanoglu, meanwhile, got everyone fired up with a very telling story on IG. 

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.

Babe Ruth is certainly the most famous trade/acquisition in Yankees’ history, probably in baseball history, and you could make the argument for in all of sports history. A big part of its fame relates to how much it almost immediately became a massive swindle, leading to the Red Sox being “cursed” for decades to come.

What gets lost in that move is the several others in which the Yankees very clearly got the better of Boston. Arguably the second-best was the trade for pitcher Red Ruffing, whose 121st birthday is today.

Charles Herbert “Red” Ruffing
Born: May 3, 1905 (Granville, IL)
Died: February 17, 1986 (Mayfield Heights, OH)
Yankees Tenure: 1930-46

Born in 1905 in Illinois to German immigrants, Charles Ruffing was one of five children born to John and Frances Ruffing. In his childhood, his family called him Charley, but in school he got the nickname “Red” due to his hair color, which would stick and follow him throughout his baseball career.

Ruffing’s father was a mine worker and at 13-years-old, Red quit school and joined his father and other family members in the mines. While there, he developed a reputation as a skilled baseball player on the mine company’s team. In addition to pitching, he was also a talented hitter and outfielder, but had to give that up after a work accident saw Ruffing’s foot crushed between mine cars. Four toes on Ruffing’s left foot had to be amputated, which led to him focusing on pitching, and doing that eventually earned him places in the minor leagues, and eventually a deal with the Boston Red Sox.

Despite having just turned 19 a few weeks prior, Ruffing was thrown right into the fire and given his MLB debut on May 30, 1924. He was sparingly used and hit hard before being sent down to the minors. Boston later recalled him in September 1924, and from the next season on, he would become a regular member of their rotation going forward. While he would have his moments and generally became the Red Sox “ace” over the next couple years (even earning a charter spot in the Red Sox Hall of Fame), he didn’t quite show signs of greatness in that time.

As a team, the Red Sox were also going nowhere during Ruffing’s tenure with the teams. The Red Sox owners also inherited a financial mess from previous owner Harry Frazee — he of the Ruth sale. Needing to take off some financial pressure, in early May 1930, they decided to trade Ruffing to the Yankees in exchange for $50,000 and backup outfielder Cedric Durst.

Ruffing’s first two seasons in New York were both around average, but then he broke out in 1932, winning 18 games and putting up a league-leading 190 strikeouts. His 18 wins that year were nearly half as many as he had recorded in his seven seasons in Boston: 39. As a team, the Yankees also racked up 107 wins and swept the Cubs in the World Series for the first of Ruffing’s six championships.

Over the course of the 1932-42 seasons, Ruffing became one of the best pitchers in baseball. His 34.2 fWAR and 39.7 rWAR in that time rank among the best of the era, as he won 188 games with a 3.39 ERA (123 ERA+). He was named an All-Star on six occasions and won another five World Series rings. In the 1938, he threw two complete-game victories in another sweep of the Cubs, allowing just three total runs. Had the World Series MVP existed then, he would’ve been a strong choice. Ruffing was a star of the rotation as the team bridged the gap between the Ruth and Joe DiMaggio eras.

Towards the end of that 1932-42 run, Ruffing began to fall back more towards league average, as he began to deal with elbow pain from years of being a workhorse. He tried to hide it from the team and still gave them some solid years, but the end was on the horizon.

After 1942, Ruffing was drafted into the military to serve in World War II and missed the entirety of the next two seasons. When he returned, he still put up some solid numbers, but suffered a broken kneecap in 1946 after taking a comebacker off the knee. With Ruffing also now over 40, the Yankees decided to move on from him. Ruffing signed with the White Sox for 1947 in an effort to reach the 300-win mark, but he struggled and they too released him, ending his career.

Ruffing was voted into the Hall of Fame in 1967, but his induction is debated, as he has one of the highest ERAs of any pitcher voted in. He almost certainly wouldn’t have made it had he played for another team and hadn’t won six championships, but you also can’t take away what he did contribute for those titles.

After suffering from several medical ailments in his later years, Ruffing passed away from leukemia in 1986 at the age of 80. The Yankees eventually posthumously honored him with a Monument Park plaque in 2004, and his son was on hand for the honor. We wish him a happy birthday!

See more of the “Yankees Birthday of the Day” series here.

Barcelona have come close to signing Nico Williams in each of the last two summer transfer windows, only to see the move fall through on both occasions.

The Athletic Club winger has long been identified as a priority target for the Catalan club, but a combination of financial constraints and the player’s own contractual decisions has repeatedly blocked a deal.

Now, as we look ahead to the summer of 2026, Nico’s future has once again become a subject of hot debate, though this time Barcelona are completely out of the running, having learnt their lesson.

Why Williams could leave Athletic

According to El Nacional, Nico Williams could leave Athletic Club this summer due to various reasons.

For one, Ernesto Valverde’s departure has created sporting uncertainty at San Mames.

Moreover, one of the key conditions Williams imposed when signing his recent contract renewal, an ambitious project with European football guaranteed, looks unlikely to be met if Athletic fail to qualify for Europe next season.

Barcelona are no longer interested in Nico Williams. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

The club, for their part, is also reportedly unhappy with his injury record and are aware they cannot sustain his wages without European revenue.

Despite remaining Williams’ preferred destination personally, Barcelona have ruled out a move following what Joan Laporta and Deco perceived as a betrayal during the summer of 2025.

The Blaugrana have moved on and will not be revisiting their interest.

Liverpool closing in

That has opened the door for Liverpool, who are now firmly in pole position. The Merseyside club are unwilling to meet the €95 million release clause but are reportedly prepared to offer in excess of €80 million.

The Reds are hopeful this figure will be enough to reach an agreement with Athletic Club.

With Mohamed Salah having announced his departure, Liverpool need a guaranteed wide attacker of the highest calibre. Williams fits that profile perfectly.

Bruno Fernandes has explained why he stayed at Manchester United after having multiple opportunities to leave the club. 

The playmaker was offered the chance to move to Saudi Arabia last year, but chose to remain at Old Trafford.

Speaking to Gary Neville on Sky Sports, the 31-year-old said his decision was not made out of a sense of loyalty, but because he is determined to win major trophies like the Premier League and UEFA Champions League with Man Utd.

Bruno Fernandes reveals why he stayed at Man Utd

“It’s not a question of loyalty,” Fernandes said. “I could have gone two years ago, I could have gone three years ago, I could have gone last season, but I really like to be here.

“I think that being successful at this club is something that I can never get at another club. The joy and everything I get, the day I get what I want from this club, I don’t think I will get that from any other club in the world.

“I know how much the fans want this, I know how passionate they are. I know how much they are waiting for the club to come back again. I’m on the same ship as them. I want this ship; instead of being steady, I want it to go forward and to navigate as much as we can.

“Yeah, I won the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup [but] what this club wants, what these fans want and what I want, myself and the team, we haven’t got that yet. Until my contract expires, I’m going to try.”

Read – Power Rankings: Man Utd upward, top two collide

See Also – Man Utd vs Liverpool combined XI ahead of Premier League clash

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Life became more difficult for Milan in their Serie A match away against Sassuolo after the  24th-minute red card shown to centre-back Fikayo Tomori. Here is how the England international managed to get himself sent off midway through the first half at the Mapei Stadium.

Tomori sees red after 24 minutes of Sassuolo vs. Milan

With his side trailing 1-0 after Domenico Berardi’s early opener for Sassuolo, Tomori was sent off for two separate yellow card offences on Sunday afternoon.

The first booking came in the ninth minute for a trip on Kristian Thorstvedt just inside the Sassuolo half, which led referee Fabio Maresca to immediately reach for his yellow card.

Tomori’s afternoon was over a quarter of an hour later after tripping up Armand Lauriente right on the halfway line in a very similar position to his first booking 15 minutes earlier.

There were few complaints from the Milan camp after the decision to send off Tomori, who took himself straight down the tunnel in the 24th minute.

MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan warms up prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Fiorentina at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on April 05, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Despite being a centre-back down, Allegri decided against making any personnel changes before the end of the first half.

You can follow the action from Sassuolo vs. Milan and from all of Sunday’s Serie A matches on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Kelechi Iheanacho once again made a decisive impact to help Celtic win a game, scoring late on to give the Hoops a 2-1 victory over Hibernian at Easter Road.

The Nigerian striker did the same thing at Dens Park last month, while he scored two extra-time goals at Hampden against St Mirren to help the Hoops progress to the Scottish Cup final.

And his goal at Easter Road, a coolly-taken finish from eight yards out, takes his tally to seven for the season.

Speaking to Celtic TV after the game, Kelechi Iheanacho said: “I always feel great to come in and help the team to get the win, so I’m happy today. The whole team is happy, and especially the fans.

'It’s really important to stay patient, especially when you’re playing against 10 men.'

"It’s really difficult because they sit back and wait for you to come, so you need patience to move them from side to side to create spaces, and, at the end, we got our reward.

“In the box you need to be composed but it was a difficult finish, to be fair. I wanted to head it at first but I had a second touch to chest it and then the guys started rushing out and I just had to get it on target and see what happened.

“I’m happy that the fans are loving every moment of it, and I’m enjoying it.

"We just need to focus on the rest of the games and do the job we need to do and at the end, we’ll get the trophy hopefully.”

Fixtures

Hibernian Vs. Celtic - Sun, May 3rd 2026, 12:00 Final score: 1 - 2

There are matches in every Indian Premier League season that arrive draped in quiet desperation and Monday night at the Wankhede is one of them.

Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, two franchises that have arrived at the same uncomfortable destination, both with just four points, both staring at the unmistakable possibility of a season slipping beyond rescue.

MI are sitting ninth after nine games, on the other hand LSG are sitting tenth after eight. The loser here will almost certainly become the first team mathematically eliminated from IPL 2026.

Mumbai carry the heavier burden. Five titles to their name and yet this season has simply refused to come together for them. The evidence is damning. They posted 243 against SRH and still lost, their bowling offering no resistance whatsoever. Then, against CSK at Chepauk, they could muster only 159, a total Ruturaj Gaikwad and Kartik Sharma knocked off with eight wickets to spare and barely a moment of anxiety 

LSG, meanwhile, are still haunted by a Super Over against KKR in which they managed just one run, the lowest Super Over score in IPL history. Rishabh Pant's side have a net run rate of -1.106, the worst in the tournament.

Mumbai Indians vs. Lucknow Super Giants prediction: Who Will Win

This is a contest that resists easy conclusions. Both sides have been deeply flawed in different departments and that almost makes it harder to call, not easier.

Mumbai's bowling has been the central anxiety in the last few matches. Bumrah is operating below 8.5 runs per over, respectable on paper, but he has not been the wicket-taking force MI desperately need him to be. Around him, there is precious little penetration. Suryakumar Yadav, meanwhile, continues to look a shadow of himself and MI's powerplay batting has not matched the aggression of the competition's better sides.

Lucknow's bowling, for all their other struggles has carried genuine bite through most of this tournament. And at Wankhede, with Mitchell Marsh, Jos Inglis and Aiden Markram capable of finding their range quickly, their batting could finally find its voice.

Lucknow Super Giants to win.

MI vs. LSG Pitch Report: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Wankhede has always been a batter's paradise. True wickets, short boundaries and runs aplenty. But this season, teams have taken it to another level entirely. The average score has climbed past 210, which is a staggering 35-38 runs above what was already a healthy par.

MORE: Cricket matches today | IPL Matches Today | Who will qualify for the playoffs? 

Head-to-Head: MI vs. LSG

Lucknow Super Giants have made something of a habit of getting the better of Mumbai Indians. They have six wins in eight meetings. That 75% win rate speaks not to occasional brilliance but to consistent, measured dominance.

The more recent chapters of this rivalry have done little to suggest any shift in the balance of power. Four wins from the last five encounters confirm that, at least where these two sides are concerned, LSG remain very firmly in charge.

MI vs. LSG Betting Tips

Here is our favourite betting angle for the MI vs. LSG match.

Wankhede this season has been a relentless run-scoring exercise, with averages nudging close to 210. A target of 180 sits a full 30 runs below what this ground has come to expect and you would have to bat with quite extraordinary ineptitude to fall short of it. And we are not seeing that in this game.

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MI vs. LSG Lineups, Team News

This is how both teams could lineup at Wankhede stadium.

MI predicted lineup to play LSG

Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (C) , Robin Minz, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, AM Ghazanfar, Ashwani Kumar

Impact player: Krish Bhagat

LSG predicted lineup to play MI

Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Josh Inglis, Himmat Singh,  Ayush Badoni, Mohsin Khan, Mohammed Shami, Prince Yadav, Digvesh Rathi

Impact player: Avesh Khan

MI vs. LSG Odds: Who is the favourite for IPL 2026 clash?

• MI to win: 1.61
• LSG to win: 2.32

*All odds via Dafabet.

BET HERE: Best cricket betting sites in India | Dafabet IPL Betting Offer

How to watch MI vs. LSG 2026 match: Live Stream, TV Channel

Here is all the key information for how to watch MI vs. LSG:

• Date: Monday, 04 May
• Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
• Time: 7:30 PM (IST)
• TV/Stream: JioHotstar, Star Sports Network

David Warner backs Hyderabad Kingsmen to win PSL 2026 final vs Babar Azam's Peshawar Zalmi due to Aussie connection originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• David Warner led the Karachi Kings franchise in PSL 2026. 
• The former Australian batter is backing Hyderabad Kingsmen to win the PSL 2026 title. 
• Hyderabad Kingsmen eyeing maiden PSL title under the leadership of Australia star Marnus Labuschagne. 

David Warner backs Hyderabad Kingsmen to win PSL 2026 final vs Babar Azam's Peshawar Zalmi

Former Australian opener David Warner shared his thoughts on the Pakistan Super League 2026 final, which will be contested between Peshawar Zalmi and Hyderabad Kingsmen at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Sunday evening.

Zalmi, led by Babar Azam, are eyeing their second PSL title after their won the trophy in 2017. Kingsmen, on the other hand, made their debut in the PSL this year and are aiming to win their maiden title.

Zalmi was undoubtedly the best team in the PSL 2026 season, having won eight out of their 10 league games and then thrashing Islamabad United in the Qualifier to reach the final. However, they will face a tough fight from Marnus Labuschagne-led HKK, who reached the final despite finishing fourth on the points table.

Just hours before the grand finale in Lahore, Karachi Kings captain David Warner showed his support for Hyderabad and revealed that he backing the debutants due to the leadership of his compatriot and former Australia teammate Marnus Labuschagne.

On his Instagram story, Warner wrote: "Good luck to both teams @thepsl. I'm still going for Australia @marnus3. But soft spot for my friend @dahani.99."

In response to Warner's tweet, where he mentioned Shahnawaz Dahani, the Pakistan cricketer, in response, wrote: "Hahaha. Thanks Warnee! Zalmi's will win, we also got Aussie bigman @aaron_hardie."

David Warner is backing his Australian teammate Marnus Labuschagne but also having the soft spot for his friend Shahnawaz Dahani.#Cricket | #Pakistan | #DavidWarner | #ShahnawazDahani | #PSL11pic.twitter.com/Vd9I5kTrDg

— Khel Shel (@khelshel) May 3, 2026

MORE: PSL 2026 Final PZ vs HHK win probability: Live score & match prediction

How did David Warner perform in PSL 2026 season?

David Warner, who was leading Karachi Kings in the PSL 2026 season, featured in seven matches in this campaign, where he scored 256 runs at an average of 51.20. He maintained an impressive strike rate of 147.97 and scored three half-centuries. 

MORE: PAK did not utilise Babar properly: Zalmi coach hits back at Hesson's SR criticism

PSL 2026 points table: Pakistan Super League Season 11 standings

How to watch PSL 2026 final PZ vs HHK worldwide

Here’s a complete region-wise broadcast and streaming guide to watch the PSL 2026 final match worldwide:

To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit our Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) pages.

MIAMI — The novelty of playing at a league-leading pace undeniably added juice to the Miami Heat’s 2025-26 season. And yet, at the end, Erik Spoelstra’s team seemingly was running on fumes when it came to results in the win column.

So as the Heat reset, with the draft lottery up next on Sunday in Chicago, the question is whether to build on what was installed last season or whether to reset to something more traditional on offense.

On one hand, the Heat closed the season first in pace and second in scoring to the Denver Nuggets (a team that then went out in the first round of the playoffs). On the other hand, even in closing the season No. 12 in offensive rating, the Heat were No. 17 in offensive rating in fourth quarters, No. 17 in overall offensive rating after the All-Star break and No. 20 in offensive rating over their final 15 games of the regular season.

For his part, Heat President Pat Riley last week indicated a middle ground might be required, citing end-of-clock situations when the Heat’s best scorers need to have the ball in their hands.

“For the most part with this pace-and-space game, you run it up in four or five seconds,” Riley said. “You’re trying to get a shot in the first eight seconds of the shot clock. And then you got the middle eight seconds to try to create something for anybody and everybody. And then you got the last eight seconds of the shot clock, and I think there should be a little more caution there as to who gets the ball, who gets the shot, and all that stuff.

“And so, when you develop a philosophy about how you’re going to play, and Spo has, and I have done this many times . . . the players that you paid, you’ve got to create value for them.”

As in get them the ball. As in utilize them to attack the opposition’s weakest defenders, just as opposing teams have gone at the Heat’s Tyler Herro and Norman Powell.

While the offense adopted this past season attacked mismatches, it wasn’t always the Heat’s primary scorers doing the attacking.

“It’s just in a different way than the traditional call up the weakest defender and exploit it that way,” Spoelstra said the final week of the season. “That’s not really a strength of this roster, anyway. That’s kind of why we went to this. But we still can get to matchups just in a different way.”

The approach allowed the Heat to close with 10 different players as leading scorers over the regular season’s 82 games, with 11 scoring 20 or more points in games.

But equal opportunity didn’t necessarily equate to best opportunity, with the Heat finishing  in 10th place in the East for a second consecutive season, missing the playoffs for the first time in seven years.

“So when you get on that road as a coach and develop a philosophy about how you’re going to play,” Riley said, “then you’ve got to be committed to it. And then the plan and the system whereby you set up to execute that philosophy, if it’s not working, you’ve got to tweak it, you’ve got to change it, whatever those changes are.”

To Riley, in his metaphorical manner, it comes down to seeing the light.

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“I always use the analogy of a traffic light,” he said. “And if you look at the traffic light, it’s red, it’s caution, it’s green. And I’ve always believed in the red, caution, and then green — which red is, OK, this is how we’re going to play. I’ve got to be cautionary in the middle of the offense. And then green is you let it fly, you let it run. That’s the traffic light turned upside down — green, caution, and red. It’s turned upside down. And that’s how we play.

“If we turn the traffic light upside down, and we are running at pace at the beginning of the season, it was great. But you have to make adjustments to that with the players that you have and be a little more cautionary. And then at the end of the shot clock, you’ve got to be almost red and make sure that Bam (Adebayo) gets it, Tyler gets it, Powell gets it, whatever.”

So, no, not equal opportunity at moments of truth, no matter how constant the movement, how stressed the pace.

“American free-enterprise basketball in the last eight seconds is BS,” Riley said. “You get it to your guy. You’ve got to get it to your guys. And so that’s my philosophy.

“So Spo and I have talked about this throughout the course of the season, and I think you’ve got to make some adjustments.”

Handballs, offsides and the impact of video assistant referees (VAR) have been huge points of contention in recent years, but is it now time to add hair pulling to the list?

Sunderland defender Dan Ballard became the third player this season to be sent off for pulling an opponent's hair in Saturday's 1-1 draw at relegated Wolves.

Referee Paul Tierney initially took no action, but showed a red card to the centre-back after VAR advised him to check the incident on the pitchside monitor.

As Sunderland fans chanted 'This isn't football', Ballard joined Everton's Michael Keane and Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez in being sent off for a hair pull this season.

Everton and Manchester United both failed in their appeals to get the red cards and their resulting three-game bans overturned, so it is unlikely Ballard and Sunderland will be successful should they make a challenge.

Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, said: "I can't believe I'm on Match of the Day talking about players being sent off for hair pulling. It is ridiculous. The law has to change."

Former Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart also gave his view on Match of the Day, adding: "I don't think Dan Ballard is going for his hair, he is trying to get hold of the striker.

"According to the law, that is a red card. But do you want a player being sent off for violent conduct for that?

"It is the physical nature [of the sport], people trying to get hold of their opponent, so it doesn't make any sense."

Read Alex Brotherton's full piece here

Alvaro Carreras was one of the new players who joined Real Madrid last summer as part of the club’s plans to strengthen the defensive unit.

The Spaniard had an electric start to the season under the leadership of Xabi Alonso. But over time, his lack of defensive discipline made him a particular weakness in the Real Madrid backline, while injuries, too, marred his progress.

The second half of the season has been a disappointing one for Carreras, who has not gelled well with new coach Alvaro Arbeloa at all.

Arbeloa loses patience with Carreras

According to El Mundo, Carreras has been dropped from Real Madrid’s starting lineup on multiple occasions this season due to what Arbeloa has deemed a bad attitude.

The report does not go into specific details about the nature of the incidents, but makes clear that the coach has been firm in his stance, unwilling to turn a blind eye to behaviour he considers unacceptable, regardless of the player’s talent or potential.

Carreras has found life difficult under Alvaro Arbeloa. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Carreras is not the only Real Madrid fullback who has found it difficult to cope with Arbeloa, as veteran defender Dani Carvajal has also felt he has been mistreated and is set to leave the club at the end of the season.

The report suggests Arbeloa has prioritised praising the club’s established stars in press conferences at the expense of the homegrown core, creating a sense of frustration within the dressing room.

For Carreras specifically, his relationship with the manager has clearly broken down at a critical stage of the season.

With Real Madrid already out of contention for the title and the club preparing for a significant summer rebuild, Carreras will be hoping for a managerial change in the near future.

The reserve team of Girona ended the season with a 4-2 defeat at the field of CD Castellón B in a match marked by the home team's effectiveness in the first half and the insufficient reaction of the Girona side in the second half.

The match started uphill for the red-and-white team. In the 10th minute, Nico Font put the home team ahead, taking advantage of a well-executed offensive play. Girona B tried to recover with possession, but Castellón B was very effective in both penalty areas. In the 31st minute, Carlos Segura extended the lead, and just before halftime, in the 43rd minute, Nico Font scored again, making it 3-0 and putting the game firmly in the home team's favor.

Far from giving up, Girona B came out with a different attitude in the second half. In the 47th minute, Shin reduced the deficit, and just four minutes later, Mario made it 3-2, bringing excitement back to the match. Girona B enjoyed their best moments, pressing high and seeking the equalizer.

However, just when it seemed like the goal might come, Castellón B managed to hold on and seal the game. In the 84th minute, Miguelón scored to make it 4-2, ending any hopes of a comeback for the visitors.

With this result, Girona B concludes the season in seventh place after a great campaign in the Segunda RFEF.

Barcelona intend to address multiple areas of Hansi Flick’s squad during the upcoming summer transfer window, and one of those could be midfield. The expected departure of Marc Casado will open the door for a replacement to be signed, and one possible candidate is Manchester City and Portugal star Bernardo Silva.

Last month, Silva confirmed that he will leave Man City when his contract expires, and thus, the cogs started turning on a possible move to Barcelona. The Catalans have been long-time admirers of the 31-year-old, and they have already been offered the chance to sign him by his agent Jorge Mendes, who is close with president-elect Joan Laporta.

Silva is prioritising Barcelona above all other options, and because of this, he’s willing to cut his salary in order to make sure that he can be signed. Because of this, his chances of moving to the Spotify Camp Nou this summer are rated at 80%, according to Tuttosport (via MD). An agreement in principle has already been reached between both parties, although there are still important details that need to be resolved.

Hansi Flick yet to approve Silva signing

The most important detail that is missing is Hansi Flick’s sign-off. The Barcelona head coach has yet to approve the possible addition of the Manchester City midfielder, as his intention is to not give any attention to off-field matters until the Catalans have wrapped up the La Liga title – which will happen on Sunday if Real Madrid fail to win against Espanyol.

The possible signing of Silva makes a lot of sense from a Barcelona perspective, as he will add much-needed experience to a youthful dressing room. However, it is imperative that his arrival does not impact the club’s plans to spend big on a new central defender and striker, which are their priorities for the summer transfer window.

The Washington Nationals lead the league in errors, and have 7 more than the next closest team. After the game, it was clear that Blake Butera had finally lost his patience with all the mistakes. He vowed to change the way the Nats prepare before games and added that you cannot win many games when you lead the league in errors.

I do not think this is a problem that comes from a lack of effort. Whenever I go to games, I see the Nats doing infield work and working on their craft. It seems like a case where the Nats need to work smarter rather than harder. They may need to do more individualized work rather than just hitting ground balls to guys.

I saw the Nats do individualized work with Luis Garcia Jr. over at first base, and we have seen him improve quite a bit over there. It may be time for more hands on work for guys like Brady House and CJ Abrams. House in particular is someone they should be doing more work with.

Last season, House looked like a really promising defender at the hot corner. He posted 2 outs above average, and was making all sorts of nice plays at third. However, it has been a different story this season, with the 22 year old posting -2 OAA and having six errors. He has been a flat out liability at the hot corner.

We know CJ Abrams has defensive limitations, so it is important to have a third baseman with quality defense. Speaking of Abrams, I do not think he is as bad as the -5 OAA suggests. He made a rough error yesterday, where he just was not concentrating, but overall I think his defense has been better despite the numbers not necessarily saying that. However, I still think second base is a better fit for Abrams than shortstop long term.

While the Nats lead the league in errors by 7, the underlying metrics don’t think they are the worst defensive team in baseball. OAA paints a slightly brighter picture, with the Nats being 25th in that number. Shockingly, a big reason why they are not lower is that they are the sixth best team when it comes to catcher framing. 

You can blame the coaching staff for some of the errors and mental mistakes, but you also have to credit Bobby Wilson for improving the receiving chops of Nats catchers, especially Keibert Ruiz. While Ruiz has given the Nats nothing offensively, he has been an above average defensive catcher, with 1 fielding run value. This is following seasons where Ruiz had -10,-7 and -22 FRV.

Drew Millas has also been a good framer, but he has given all that value back by his poor blocking skills. His four passed balls are second in baseball, despite only playing half the games. The second Harry Ford shows any life, he should be in the big leagues.

Millas’ blocking problems and the Nats error prone nature in the field explains why they have allowed the most unearned runs in baseball. This pitching staff is already not too great, but they are not getting any help from the defense. The outfield defense has been mostly rock solid, with improvements from James Wood and Daylen Lile, but the infield has been a major issue for this team.

Hopefully some adjustments in preparation can help this team clean up their act. This group is not talented enough to make these kinds of mistakes. The margin for error with this group is small, especially with the offense cooling off. That makes these mistakes even more noticeable.

If these tweaks in preparation do not work, it could be time for personnel changes. Third base feels like the most obvious spot to make a move if Brady House does not heat up on both sides of the ball. I would give him until Memorial Day to figure things out, but if he keeps struggling and Yohandy Morales keeps hitting, things could get awkward quickly.

With the names on the roster, I do not think anyone was expecting an above average defense. However, as Blake Butera said, you cannot win many games when you lead the league in errors. The Nats need to clean up their act, and fast. Their mild mannered manager is losing his patience with this defense, and so are the fans.

Sheffield United ended the 2025/26 Championship season with a comeback 2-1 victory over Derby County at Pride Park on Saturday afternoon.

Sammie Szmodics gave the Rams the lead in the first half from close range as the home side looked to sneak into the play-offs on the final day. But the Blades roared back in the second half when Tom Cannon showed superb composure to find the bottom right corner amid several attempted blocks from the Derby defenders before Sydie Peck powered home from the edge of the box to secure three points.

Lineups

Derby: Zetterstrom, Forsyth (Fraulo 74), Clarke, Langas, Morris, Ozoh (Salvesen 74), Szmodics, Ward, Brereton-Diaz (Johnston 68), Travis, Banel (Clark 59).

Unused: Vickers, Barth, Sanderson, Eames, Allen.

Blades: Davies, Tanganga, Arblaster (Rothwell 63), Cannon (Chong 63), Hamer (Ings 72), O’Hare (Riedewald 85), Burrows, McGuinness, Seriki (Hoever 63), Peck, Bamford.

Unused: Betts, Soumare, Sasnauskas, McGlinchey.

First Half

Derby began on the front foot, as might have been expected given the context, and quickly looked to impose themselves.

They had already spurned an opportunity that appeared marginally offside when they struck the opener, Sammie Szmodics reacting quickest in the box to turn home from close range following a series of corners.

A quarter of an hour in, United started to steady themselves. Hamer forced Zetterstrom into action from a free kick, while the game took on a more physical edge.

Before the interval, Hamer tried his luck from distance, and Burrows was cautioned for a late challenge on Brereton Díaz as tensions simmered.

Second Half

The second half opened in relatively subdued fashion. Tanganga picked up a booking for a foul on Morris, but the contest came alive just past the hour mark.

A short back pass from Ward invited pressure, and United capitalised ruthlessly, Hamer and Bamford combining to create the opening before Tom Cannon calmly finished from 12 yards to level the scores.

Despite getting back on terms, Cannon was withdrawn shortly after as part of a triple substitution. One of those changes made an immediate impact: Chong tested Zetterstrom sharply at the near post, and moments later the breakthrough arrived.

Peck stepped up and unleashed a strike from distance that beat the Derby goalkeeper, who could do little but watch it fly past him.

United pushed for a decisive third. Ings and Riedewald were introduced to freshen things up, and Ings nearly made an instant impact, linking up neatly with Bamford before being denied by another strong save from Zetterstrom.

Peck nearly added a second to his tally late into added time, while Chong continued to trouble the hosts, ensuring United saw out the game.

PSL 2026 Final PZ vs HHK win probability: Live score and match prediction originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY MATCH DETAILS:

• Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
• Captains: Babar Azam(Peshawar Zalmi), Marnus Labuschagne (Hyderabad Kingsmen)
• Toss result: TBD
• Live Telecast: PTV Sports (Pakistan), No broadcast (India), Etisalat (Middle East & North Africa, UAE, KSA, GCC), Sky Sports Cricket (UK), Willow TV (USA and Canada), Fox Sports (Australia), SuperSport (South Africa & Sub-Saharan Africa)
• Umpires & Match officials: Ahsan Raza, Chris Gaffaney (on-field umpires), Alex Wharf (Third Umpire), Asif Yaqoob (Fourth Umpire), Roshan Mahanama (Match referee)
• Match result: TBD
• Player of the Match: TBD

Peshawar Zalmi vs Hyderabad Kingsmen PSL 2026 final live match scorecard

Follow along with the latest live scorecard here as the match unfolds, or click here for key text commentary updates from the action.

PSL 2026 final PZ vs HHK: Live Win Probability

PSL 2026 final: Live score and latest match prediction for PZ vs HHK

Hello, and welcome to the live update for tonight's grand finale of the PSL 2026 season, as Peshawar Zalmi take on Hyderabad Kingsmen.

Babar Azam-led Zalmi are eyeing their second PSL title, while the Kingsmen, led by Aussie superstar Marnus Labuschagne, are eyeing their maiden title in their debut season. 

Toss: The toss is scheduled at 8:00 p.m. IST and 7:30 p.m. local time (PKT). The delay is due to the closing ceremony which is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. PKT local. 

MORE:How to watch PSL 2026 final PZ vs HHK: Full guide to catch match live in Pakistan, UK, India, UAE, USA and other regions

PSL 2026 final: PZ vs HHK predicted playing XI

PZ predicted playing XI: Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Haris (wk), Kusal Mendis, Farhan Yousaf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Michael Bracewell, Aaron Hardie, Abdul Samad, Khurram Shahzad, Sufiyan Muqeem, Mohammad Basit.

HHK predicted playing XI: Saim Ayub, Maaz Sadaqat, Marnus Labuschagne (c), Usman Khan (wk), Kusal Perera, Glenn Maxwell, Hassan Khan, Irfan Khan Niazi, Hunain Shah, Mohammad Ali, Akif Javed.

Who won PSL 2026? Final match result

The PSL 2026 final between Peshawar Zalmi and Hyderabad Kingsmen will start at 8:00 p.m. local time (PKT) and 8:30 p.m. IST. 

To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit ourFacebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) pages.

It took Pirates just 4 innings to make baseball history not done in 51 years originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Pittsburgh Pirates accomplished a feat so unlikely that it hasn't been done by their franchise in 51 years.

And when they did it on Saturday, it somehow took just four innings to make it happen.

The accomplishment: Everyone in the starting lineup had at least one RBI.

That hadn't happened for the Pirates since Sept. 16, 1975, according to MLB.com.

They had made it happen by the time four innings were in the books of their Saturday 17-7 win over the Cincinnati Reds.

The Pirates were definitely helped by the fact that at one point, the Reds walked seven Pittsburgh hitters in a row.

But no matter how it happens, having everyone drive in a run is absolutely incredible.

“It was really impressive,” manager Don Kelly told reporters after the game, via MLB.com. “I think it was something that we can learn from as we go through the season. When we've been really good offensively and had those big innings, it's usually been because we’ve been patient. Hunted the middle of the plate, the middle of the field and continued to trust the guy behind us.”

MORE: Kazuma Okamoto blamed a quesadilla for a missed opportunity

The Pirates scored five runs in the first, five more in the second and another five in the fourth.

Ryan O'Hearn, Marcell Ozuna and Spencer Horwitz each had three RBI. Konnor Griffin and Nick Gonzales each added a pair.

Griffin had his first career four-hit game in the process.

The Pirates actually hit no home runs, but it didn't matter. Everyone was getting the job done.

More MLB news:

• Explaining the absurdity of 2 MLB players named Max Muncy
• NFL QB had one of worst ceremonial first pitches ever
• This was the funniest bunt attempt in baseball history
• This slider is really good and moves the entirely wrong direction
• Yasiel Puig is back in professional baseball

The Brazil Women’s U-17 National Team returns to the field this Sunday (3) to face Ecuador in the fifth round of the South American group stage. The match will be played at Ameliano Villeta Stadium in Paraguay at 5 p.m. (Brasília time) and will be broadcast live on SporTV.

“I think it will be a tough match, because no game is easy, but we’re coming in very well prepared. We’re very connected and our team is very strong. We prepared well, and I hope we come away with the win,” said goalkeeper Yasmin Loren.

Pinho is one of the standout players in Brazil’s attackCredits: Staff Images/CBF

The Canarinho is already through to the semifinals of the continental tournament and is the only team with a 100% record. With qualification for the next round, Brazil is one step away from securing a place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Morocco between October and November.

This is because the top three teams from each group still have a chance to book their spot. The teams that qualify for the final automatically secure a place in the World Cup. The teams that lose in the semifinals will face the third-place teams from Groups A and B. The winners of those matches will also go to Morocco.

Before the fifth round of the first phase, the groups stand as follows:

__twitter:https://x.com/CONMEBOLtorneos/status/2050399483599446376__

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Brazil comes into the match off the back of three emphatic wins. In the opener, it beat Venezuela 2-0, with goals from Gigi and Mari Gigante. Next, it defeated Uruguay 5-3. Nicolly (2), Helena, Gigi and Mari Gigante found the net. Still in the group stage, the Canarinho thrashed Peru 5-0. In that latest match, the goals came from Mari Gigante, Nicolly and Marcela (3).

Ecuador is also unbeaten, but has a 55% success rate. In its opening match, the team beat Venezuela 1-0. In the next two matches, the Ecuadorians drew with Peru (1-1) and Uruguay (0-0).

Brazil and Ecuador also met in the 2025 South American Championship. In the group stage, the Canarinho won 5-1. In the final hexagonal stage, the teams drew 0-0.

Pepê during the match between Brazil and Peru; the midfielder also played in the 2025 South American ChampionshipCredits: Staff Images/CBF

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

It's the final fixture of the regular season for Milan Futuro as they face the bottom-of-the-table Vogherese at the Stadio Felice Chinetti in Solbiate Arno. The clash on matchday 34 of Group B in Serie D will be streamed live on the AC Milan Official App, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 CEST. 

TheAC Milan PUMA Kits for 2025/26 are available: buy them now!

England have been given a major injury scare ahead of the Women’s T20 World Cup after captain Nat Sciver-Brunt sustained a calf injury.

Sciver-Brunt has been withdrawn from Charlotte Edwards’s squad for the ODI series against New Zealand after sufffering the issue while playing for the Blaze on Wednesday.

Vice-captain Charlie Dean, who had originally been rested for that series, will now skipper the side, with Maia Bouchier called up as batting cover.

A decision on Sciver-Brunt’s participation in T20 series against the White Ferns and India will be made in due course, with England suggesting that her absence from the 50-over games is precautionary as they gear up for a tournament on home soil.

The World Cup squad took no part in the Metro Bank Cup games on Saturday to instead attend a leadership programme with the British Army. Sciver-Brunt was not involved in physical activities.

England open their campaign against Sri Lanka on 12 June at Edgbaston, and also face the West Indies, Scotland, Ireland and New Zealand in Group B. They have not played competitively since exiting the 50-over World Cup to South Africa in October.

The upcoming Serie A match between Sassuolo and Milan on Sunday afternoon will be available to watch live on TikTok in the UK and Ireland, the first time that an Italian league match has been broadcast on the social media platform.

Sassuolo vs. Milan available to watch on DAZN, TikTok and YouTube

DECEMBER 14: Davide Bartesaghi celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match against US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 14, 2025 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

You can follow the action from Sassuolo vs. Milan and from all of Sunday’s Serie A fixtures on the Football Italia Liveblog. 

Broadcaster DAZN have partnered with the social media platform TikTok to livestream a Serie A match in the UK and Ireland for the first time.

The idea is for the game to introduce Serie A football to new audiences through TikTok’s discovery and community features, with the aim of turning casual viewers into regular fans of Italian football.

The Sassuolo vs. Milan match will still be available to watch on DAZN’s regular platform, as well as through the @DAZNFootball account on TikTok, and on DAZN’s YouTube channel.

Kick-off is due at 14.00 BST.

Abay Alemu edged out Tadesse Mamo by just one-hundredth of a second to win a thrilling Belfast Marathon on Sunday.

The Ethiopian pair moved clear in the closing stages before a sprint finish which saw Alemu break the tape in 2:16:23.

"I'm very happy - the people were very nice," said Alemu.

"The weather was very cold and the pace was not good but the feeling is nice."

Abera Ketema made it an Ethiopian 1-2-3 by coming in third in a time of 2:17:38.

It was third time lucky for Lala Aziza Selsouli in the women's race as the Moroccan eased to victory as two runner-up finishes.

Selsouli clocked 2:38:00 and was followed home by City of Derry athlete Judith Storm, who ran a personal best of 2:39:09.

"This is my third time - I always wish to win and finally I did it," said Selsouli.

"I like this race, I like to run in Belfast and I'm very happy to win."

Melissa Gibson of Ealing completed the podium by finishing third in 2:42:44.

Aghadowey woman Jayne Bleakley retained the wheelchair title in 2:32:39.

Bleakley, who competed in the London Marathon last weekend, won last year's race in her first marathon at the age of 44.

"That was fun but it was really tough and I had major technical difficulties on the way round," she said.

"So I can't be disappopinted with my time. I though I could still get that PB and I was chasing it the whole way round.

"It didn't happen but I had great fun and it was brilliant."

The Mets lost another player to injury in last night’s extra-innings loss to the Angels. While sliding into first base in the sixth inning, Ronny Mauricio appeared to jam his left thumb on the base, fracturing it and being placed on the Injured List. He ran the bases for the rest of the inning but then left the game in the bottom of the inning.

Mauricio has been playing shortstop in Francisco Lindor’s stead, as Lindor hit the Injured List on April 23rd with a left calf strain. The Mets also have Jorge Polanco, Luis Robert Jr, Kodai Senga, and Jared Young currently on the IL.

The Mets are in a bind as for what to do about shortstop until Lindor or Mauricio returns. While Bo Bichette, currently their third baseman, played shortstop for most of his career, his defensive abilities there were never elite, and over time they have eroded further. However, with a lineup that is already struggling to hit, calling up one of the players currently manning shortstop for Triple-A Syracuse for regular playing time—Vidal Bruján or Jackson Cluff—doesn’t inspire much offensive confidence. One of them will most likely join the team as a bench/backup option.

If Bichette is playing short, Brett Baty will likely get most of the third base reps. The Mets’ infield would likely be comprised of Baty at third, Bichette at short, Marcus Semien at second, and Mark Vientos at first. Insert your ‘run prevention’ joke here.

How Brady Wambach is related to USWNT legend Abby Wambach for UNC lacrosse originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

For most sports fans, it's a last name that will catch your attention immediately: Wambach.

One of the best players for the North Carolina Tar Heels' men's lacrosse team is Brady Wambach. And yep, he's related to U.S. women's soccer legend Abby Wambach.

Brady is a faceoff guy, but he's more than that -- after UNC wins faceoffs, Brady often stays on the field and makes plays. 

This season, he has won 252-of-374 faceoffs entering Sunday's ACC Championship game. That works out to 67.4%.

He also has scored 10 goals and dished out four assists.

Much of the faceoff work comes with his own ability after the initial whistle, too, as Brady has picked up 162 ground balls this season. But he gets plenty of help from his talented wings, and it's a key aspect of the game that gives the Tar Heels high hopes for the entire postseason.

And there's certainly plenty of winning in Brady Wambach's genes.

How is Brady Wambach related to Abby Wambcah?

Brady is Abby's nephew.

He's the son of Peter and Carolyn Wambach. Peter passed away unexpectedly in December 2023 and was one of nine siblings of a group that also included Abby.

Brady grew up in Pittsford, N.Y., outside of Rochester, where he also played hockey. He eventually finished his prep career at the Salisbury School in Connecticut before matriculating to Chapel Hill.

MORE: How Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo is related to Secretariat

Red Bull Racing driver Isack Hadjar has been disqualified from the Miami Grand Prix qualifying after the sport’s governing body, the FIA, found his RB22 F1 car’s floor to be non-compliant with the 2026 F1 technical regulations. As a result, Hadjar will start the race from the pit lane instead of starting from P9.

The FIA discovered in post-qualifying scrutineering that the floor of the RB22 protruded by two millimeters, more than what had been specified in the technical regulations.

The Red Bull F1 team introduced a new floor to Hadjar’s car as part of its upgrade package for the Miami GP. However, that has not met with the FIA’s specifications. FIA technical delegate Jo Bauer stated:

“The lhs and rhs floorboard were protruding 2mm out of the reference volume RV-FLOOR BOARD.

Read More from MotorBiscuit:

• Updated 2026 Miami Grand Prix Start Time Confirmed and How to Watch
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“As this is not in compliance with Article C3.5.5 of the Formula 1 Technical Regulation, I am referring this matter to the stewards for their consideration.”

Red Bull did not go against Bauer’s report. Announcing the penalty, the FIA report read:

“The Stewards heard from the team representatives of Car 6 (Isack Hadjar). They did not dispute the findings of the Technical Delegate that portions of the LHS and RHS floor boards were protruding 2mm out of the reference volume RV-FLOOR BOARD.

“This is a breach of Article C3.5.5 of the FIA F1 Regulations and the usual consequences follow an admitted breach of the technical regulations.”

Following the disqualification, Red Bull issued a statement in which team principal Laurent Mekies apologized on behalf of the team. Planet F1 reported:

“We made a mistake and we respect the decision of the stewards. No performance advantage was intended nor gained from this error.

“We will learn from this incident and assess our processes to understand how it occurred and to take steps to ensure it cannot happen again.

“As a team, we apologise to Isack, and to our fans and partners. We learn the hard way today but we will move forward.

“Now our focus is on converting yesterday’s encouraging showing into a strong race performance this afternoon.”

Bologna were held to an underwhelming 0-0 draw at home against Cagliari in Serie A on Sunday afternoon, the third consecutive Italian top-flight match to end goalless.

Bologna came into Sunday’s clash ranked ninth in Serie A, while the 16th-placed Cagliari came in needing a victory to ensure mathematical safety with three games to spare. Vincenzo Italiano’s side were without goalkeeper Lukasz Skorpuski, Joao Mario, Nicolo Cambiaghi and Thijs Dallinga, and Cagliari travelled without Riyad Idrissi, Luca Mazzitelli, Mattia Felici, Leonardo Pavoletti and Gennaro Borrelli.

Click here to read more about how today’s teams lined up.

Fans during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Cagliari Calcio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on May 03, 2026. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Federico Bernardeschi registered the game’s first shot on target after 25 minutes, coming in off the right flank and attempting to bend his left-footed shot into the far corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area. Nothing that Elia Caprile couldn’t handle, though.

Teenage goalkeeper Massimo Pessina was called into action in the 45th minute, improvising well to deny Sebastiano Esposito at his near post.

MAY 03: Sebastiano Esposito of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Cagliari Calcio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Benja Dominguez thought he had a shout for a penalty immediately afterwards after feeling a hand on the back from Yerry Mina down at the other end, but this was waved away with no further reviews.

Caprile had to get down low and get a strong hand out to deny Nikola Moro’s dipping shot from the edge of the penalty area 10 minutes after the re-start.

Substitute Santiago Castro struck the ball well from a tight angle 66 minutes in, but Caprile was again well positioned at his near post and got his full body behind the shot.

Ze Pedro had a glorious opportunity to send Cagliari 1-0 up 10 minutes from time: Michael Folorunsho had done well to send a cross back into a busy Bologna penalty area, which fell kindly for Ze Pedro, who managed to blast his first-time finish over the crossbar from the edge of the six-yard box.

After 0-0 draws between Como and Napoli and between Atalanta and Genoa on Saturday evening, this was the third consecutive Serie A match to end goalless. Bologna are now four games without a win across all competitions, while Cagliari are not quite safe from relegation just yet.

MAY 03: Fabio Pisacane head coach of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Cagliari Calcio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Bologna 0-0 Cagliari

Manchester United are determined to get their managerial appointment right this summer after a couple of false starts under INEOS. The Red Devils handed the reins of the first team to caretaker manager Michael Carrick after a turbulent 14-month run under former head coach Ruben Amorim.

The Englishman has masterminded an impressive turnaround at Old Trafford, helping the club climb to third in the Premier League table after 34 games. United have registered nine wins and just two defeats under the former midfielder, and are on course to complete a blockbuster return to the Champions League next season.

The English giants are expected to appoint a permanent manager at the end of the campaign, although Carrick remains an option for the job. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that his chances of securing the full-time position could also depend on the future of his assistant, Steve Holland.

Michael Carrick Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Wikipedia.

While the Red Devils are yet to make a decision on the matter, it now appears that they are already working to strengthen the coaching team ahead of the new season.

United want Aaron Danks

According to TEAMtalk, Carrick has identified Bayern Munich assistant manager Aaron Danks as an option to upgrade his backroom team if he continues in his position. The report states: “Manchester United are keeping close tabs on Bayern Munich assistant Aaron Danks, with TEAMtalk able to reveal that Michael Carrick wants him as part of his long-term coaching staff should he land the job permanently at Old Trafford.”

Danks arrived at the Allianz Arena to join Vincent Kompany’s staff in 2024, and the pair also worked together at Anderlecht in 2021. The Englishman has an enviable CV, having spent time in England working under Dean Smith, Steven Gerrard and Unai Emery at Aston Villa.

Danks also has a history with Carrick, having joined his coaching staff at Middlesbrough in December 2022 and becoming a trusted associate before leaving for Bayern. He has added to his reputation during his time at the Allianz Arena and was also in the news earlier this week.

With Kompany banished to the stands, Danks was in charge on the sidelines during the Bavarians’ highly entertaining 5-4 defeat at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the Champions League. United are certainly impressed by what they have seen so far, and are now eager to take him back to the Premier League.

Background checks in place

The report from TEAMtalk adds that United have already carried out background checks on Danks ahead of a possible move this summer. It states: “Sources understands that Man Utd have already carried out background work on Danks and have been impressed by their findings.”

“Indeed, his tactical acumen, adaptability and experience working across multiple elite environments have all been noted.”

“Sources suggest this is part of a wider process at United, who are conducting due diligence on potential coaching additions should Carrick be handed the role on a full-time basis.”

The report, however, confirms that no formal approach has been made so far for the Englishman.

Final Thoughts

United have followed a well-planned approach in squad reinforcements of late, and securing the services of Danks could be another step in the right direction. All eyes will now be on the permanent appointment process, which could be the most important decision of INEOS’ tenure.

Featured image Alexander Hassenstein via Getty Images

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Red Bull brought a series of upgrades to the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, hoping to unlock improved performance in the RB22. The decision seemed to pay immediate dividends for Max Verstappen, who put his RB22 on the front row during qualifying, and he will start second alongside pole-sitter Kimi Antonelli later today.

However, Isack Hadjar qualified eighth — 0.825 seconds behind Verstappen — which was frustrating enough for the Red Bull driver.

But that frustration worsened Sunday morning, when Hadjar was disqualified from qualifying following a post-session inspection.

During the post-qualifying scrutineering, race stewards found that the floor on Hadjar’s RB22 was protruding approximately two millimeters beyond the specifications allowed for in the 2026 F1 technical regulations. Hadjar and a Red Bull representative were summoned to a hearing with race officials, set for early Sunday morning.

Following the hearing, Hadjar was disqualified from qualifying.

In the report from race stewards, they noted that Red Bull “did not dispute the findings of the Technical Delegate that portions of the LHS and RHS floor boards were protruding 2mm out of the reference volume RV-FLOOR BOARD.”

Race officials imposed the standard penalty for a breach of the technical regulations, which is a disqualification from the session. Red Bull then requested that Hadjar be permitted to start the race, despite being disqualified from qualifying, and race officials granted that request.

Hadjar will line up 22nd on the grid, at the back of the field.

Speaking after qualifying, Hadjar outlined his frustration with the upgrades, and his performance during the hour.

“The car was very hard to drive, it was very fast. In Q3 I just couldn’t put it all together and on the other side we have no straight line speed,” Hadjar said after qualifying.

“I think it’s a very tricky track, very low grip with high track temperature. So nothing to do with what we had in the first three rounds. It’s not a very fluid racing track with good grip. 

“It’s completely different and Max is very good at adapting to these conditions. In the corners I can tell you I’ve made big progress compared to yesterday. I just couldn’t tidy up like he did and on top of that I’m missing in every straight.”

Now he’ll have to make up significant ground on the track, in what is expected to be a very wet Miami Grand Prix.

Aston Villa need to bounce back quickly from their Europa League semi-final first-leg defeat if they hope to further cement themselves in the top five.

Spurs, meanwhile, are desperate for points in their battle to stay in the Premier League.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of Sunday evening’s clash.

Kick-off time

7pm UK time, Sunday May 3

How to watch in the UK

TNT Sports 1/TNT Sports Ultimate

Streaming on HBO Max

Injuries and suspensions

Aston Villa: Boubacar Kamara (out), Alysson (out), Amadou Onana (out)

Tottenham Hotspur: Xavi Simons (out), Wilson Odobert (out), Mohammed Kudus (out), Dejan Kulusevski (out), Cristian Romero (out), Ben Davies (out), Guglielmo Vicario (out), Destiny Udogie (doubt), Dominic Solanke (out)

Predicted line-ups

Aston Villa XI (4-2-3-1): Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Mings, Maatsen; Bogarde, Tielemans; McGinn, Barkley, Rogers; Watkins

Tottenham XI (4-2-3-1): Kinsky; Porro, Danso, Van de Ven, Spence; Bentancur, Bissouma; Kolo Muani, Bergvall, Tel; Richarlison

Recent form

Aston Villa need to steady the ship if they hope to live up to their potential this season. Despite pulling off an important league win against Sunderland, they were then narrowly beaten by Fulham and then Nottingham Forest in the first leg of the Europa League semi-finals. Level on points with Liverpool in 4th, a strong performance against Tottenham could see them make a case for a return to Europe’s top tournament.

Tottenham Hotspur finally managed to take home three points against an already-relegated Wolves side last time out, keeping them within touching distance of safety. Just two points behind West Ham, every game remains a must-win, but Spurs have not won at Villa Park since November 2024. Roberto de Zerbi will need to inspire something massive from his players as they continue to battle against relegation.

What’s been said?

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery: “Each match is very important, we are involved in the Premier League in day 35 and we are focusing on it as a priority – to be consistent and be demanding to achieve a huge challenge to be back in the Champions League.

“On Sunday we need the stadium full, the supporters helping us, playing with us, bringing the energy. We are trying to enjoy with our supporters. We have been consistent, three years in a row playing in Europe. This year we have the opportunity to fight for it.”

Tottenham Hotspur boss Roberto De Zerbi: “[The voice inside us was saying] winning two or three games in a row is impossible because we hadn’t won a game in 2026. I think it’s all negative things and it’s rubbish. It’s like we’re all crying and relegated. No, not yet. We have to die on the pitch.

“We have to play, we have to fight, we have two points less than West Ham. It’s not the best moment for us, a tough moment, but the losers cry, they think negative and I don’t want people close to me crying or to think a different way than me.”

USC's Makai Lemon will try to follow in the footsteps of Philadelphia Eagles players who have won two Super Bowls in the past decade and have knocked on the door of a championship in other seasons. Eagles Wire noted that Lemon will wear Nick Foles' No. 9 with the blessing of the Super Bowl-winning quarterback. Now let's get into the meaty topic of how Makai Lemon can actually help the Eagles win another Lombardi Trophy.

One thing which stands out about Jalen Hurts' disappointing 2025 NFL season with the Eagles is his yards per attempt average. Hurts averaged just 7.1 yards per pass attempt -- not per completion, but per attempt. That's low. That's not what a modern passing attack should achieve, especially on a team with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations. Hurts completed a 79-yard pass last season and a few other passes over 40 yards, so the 7.1-yard average means the vast majority of his completions did not gain very many yards.

Makai Lemon will need to be a 3rd and 5 option for the Eagles' passing attack, but he will also need to work the middle third of the field and make those 12- and 15-yard intermediate catches in open pockets of the defense. Lemon makes plays anywhere on the field, and like a true big dog, he has to be able and willing to go over the middle and catch the ball before getting hit. If Lemon becomes a middle-third machine who can load up on intermediate-length pass routes, the Hurts average per attempt could climb toward 10 yards, and the Eagles will get a lot more out of their passing game in 2026.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Makai Lemon's task within Eagles' 2026 offense should be clear

Chelsea welcome Nottingham Forest to Stamford Bridge for an unusual Monday 3pm Premier League encounter.

After their commanding 3-0 win in the reverse fixture back in October, the Blues will be aiming to complete a Premier League double over the Tricky Trees for only the second time, having previously done so in the 1998/99 campaign.

Match preview

Chelsea arrive for this encounter on the back of a dreadful five-game losing streak in the top flight, drawing a blank in all of them for the first time since 1912.

The Blues suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion last time out in the Premier League, which ended Liam Rosenior’s reign at the club.

Despite their league struggles, Chelsea will take confidence from their 1-0 FA Cup semi-final victory against Leeds United, overseen by interim boss Calum McFarlane.

Enzo Fernandez’s first-half header at Wembley secured a final showdown with Manchester City and brought an end to Chelsea’s three-game goal drought.

Despite currently being closer to 16th than the top five on points, the Blues would not see their Champions League hopes completely extinguished with a defeat, as sixth place could be sufficient if Aston Villa secure a top-five finish and win the Europa League.

Nottingham Forest stretched their unbeaten run to nine matches in all competitions with a narrow 1-0 victory over the Villans in Thursday’s Europa League semi-final first leg.

Chris Wood’s second-half penalty proved decisive for Vitor Pereira’s side, who have now won four games in a row in all competitions.

The Tricky Trees thrashed Sunderland 5-0 in their last Premier League outing, moving eight points clear of the drop zone and boosting their hopes of securing top-flight survival.

Forest have lost just two of their eight Premier League away games against Chelsea (W2 D4) and are unbeaten in all three visits to Stamford Bridge since their return to the competition in 2022 (W1 D2).

Team news

McFarlane has confirmed that Reece James and Levi Colwill could return to the matchday squad after their respective injuries.

While Estevao Willian, Filip Jorgensen and Jamies Gittens are on the sidelines for the hosts.

Forest suffered a fresh injury blow on Thursday as Ola Aina was forced off in the second-half and is doubtful.

Dan Ndoye, Ibrahim Sangare, Jair Cunha and Murillo missed their UEL semi-final victory over Villa and are also doubts.

Nicolo Savona, Callum Hudson-Odoi, John Victor and Willy Boly are unavailable with injuries.

Predicted line-ups

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Sanchez, Gusto, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella, Lavia, Caicedo, Palmer, Fernandez, Neto, Joao Pedro.

Nottingham Forest (4-4-2): Sels, Abbott, Milenkovic, Morato, Williams, McAtee, Anderson, Dominguez, Gibbs-White, Jesus, Lucca.

Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Nottingham Forest.

It's going to be a soggy Sunday at the Blue Monster.

The final round of the 2026 Cadillac Championship was delayed due to thunderstorms in the Miami area on Sunday morning. Tee times were originally moved up and set to begin at 7:30 a.m. ET in an effort to complete play early afternoon, but an early-morning wave of storms forced PGA Tour officials to delay the start of Sunday's action.

Sunday weather forecast for the Cadillac Championship pic.twitter.com/BMaPd8vcL3

— PGA TOUR Communications (@PGATOURComms) May 3, 2026

The forecast for the remainder of Sunday is not promising, either. While rain chances decrease slightly during the middle of the day, they shoot up into the late afternoon and evening. The forecast calls for between 1 to 2 inches of rain.

If play is not able to be completed Sunday, the Monday forecast shows better conditions, though rain may still persist in the Doral area. The PGA Tour, as of 8:30 a.m. ET, has not announced when play will begin.

Cameron Young has a six-shot lead after the third round on Scottie Scheffler, Si Woo Kim and Kristoffer Reitan. Young sits at 15 under and is in search of his second win this season, also having won the Players in March.

The last PGA Tour event to be reduced to 54 holes was the 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, which Wyndham Clark won after a stellar 12-under 60 in the third round.

This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Cadillac Championship 2026 final round delayed by storms at Doral

The Minnesota Timberwolves overcame significant adversity to reach the conference semifinals against the San Antonio Spurs, as injuries disrupted their campaign at a critical stage.

Donte DiVincenzo, Anthony Edwards and Ayo Dosunmu were all sidelined for different matches, but Minnesota defied expectations to eliminate the Denver Nuggets as underdogs.

That result has raised hopes the Timberwolves can regain key players soon.

And with momentum on their side, attention has shifted to how they navigate the next series.

Jaden McDaniels makes promise to Anthony Edwards amid injury setback

Jaden McDaniels revealed he has already made a clear commitment to Edwards. The Timberwolves forward spoke about keeping the series alive until their star gets back.

Edwards is dealing with a bone bruise and hyperextension of his left knee. His absence leaves a significant gap in Minnesota’s line-up heading into the Spurs series.

McDaniels addressed the situation when asked about Edwards potentially returning. “Any time we can get someone who has been hurt back [it’s good news], especially ‘Ant’, with the gravity he carries.”

He then outlined his promise directly, saying: “Even him just being on the court would help us a lot. So, whenever he’s ready, I told him, we’re gonna hold it down until he gets ready.”

Jaden McDaniels’ form offers Timberwolves reason for confidence

McDaniels played a decisive role in the series win over Denver. His performances helped stabilise the team during a challenging period with crucial absences.

The 25-year-old has elevated his output in the playoffs, averaging 17.8 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game.

In Game 6 against the Nuggets, McDaniels delivered a triple-double with 32 points and 10 assists, a huge boost in Minnesota’s bid for a place in the conference semifinals.

His defensive presence and increased production are expected to remain key against the Spurs.

Read more:

In the second-to-last match of the Women’s Super League season, Chelsea Women face an already relegated Leicester City team that have been in a crisis quite similar to their men’s counterpart, who have also just been relegated. A match of parallels, more or less.

Leicester starting eleven:
Keane | Kees, Tierney (c), Van Egmond, Jansson, Ale, Thibaud, Mayling, Cain, O’Brien, Swaby

Substitutes from:Baker, Neville, Payne, McLoughlin, Goodwin, Lehmann, Rantala, Williams, Mouchon

Chelsea starting lineup (4-3-3):
Peng | Carpenter, Bronze, Buchanan, Charles | Potter, Cuthbert (c), Kaptein | Kaneryd, Kerr, James

Substitutes from:Hampton, Spencer, Buurman, Baltimore, Nüsken, Walsh, Sarwie, Beever-Jones, Thompson

Date / Time: Sunday, May 3, 2026, 14.30 BST; 9:30am EDT
Venue: King Power Stadium, Leicester, UK
Referee: Ade Soneye

On TV: BBC Two (UK); none (USA); elsewhere
Streaming: BBC iPlayer (UK); ESPN+, fuboTV (USA)

Let’s do this!

Could this be the last chance for St. Pauli to achieve that desired turnaround and a boost in the dangerous relegation battle? Alexander Blessin‘s side is hosting Mainz 05, who arrive with mixed feelings after last week‘s turbulent 3-4 loss against Bayern Munich, where Urs Fischer‘s side were actually leading 3-0.

Which side will come out on top today? With just about one hour to go until kickoff, here are the confirmed lineups of both sides.

Confirmed lineups: FC St. Pauli vs. Mainz 05

St. Pauli (3-4-2-1):

Vasilj - Ando, Wahl, Mets- Pyrka, Irvine, Smith, Ritzka - Sinani, Fujita - Hountondji

Mainz 05 (3-5-2):

Batz - Da Costa, Posch, Potulski - Widmer, Sano, Amiri, Nebel, Mwene - Becker, Tietz

OWINGS MILLS, MD – It’s now been a full week since the 2026 NFL Draft began receding into the rearview mirror. Next, the league’s newcomers hit the road – fully embracing what they see through the windshield as they leave home, college campuses and/or pre-draft training sites to take the on-ramp for the unofficial starts of their pro football careers as 31 of the NFL’s 32 clubs conduct May's rookie minicamps – eight of them wrapping up this weekend, with 23 more set to be in full swing next weekend. (The Detroit Lions opted out of their rookie minicamp, altering the approach to their offseason.)

“The message for those guys is, like, every day has to be the most important day of your career now. If you really want to make it, and you really want to find that consistency – like every meeting and every rep is the most important rep and especially from a mental standpoint. It's not always going to be a thousand miles an hour physically. But every opportunity in the meeting room, in the weight room, in the walk-throughs, every rep is the most important rep of your career,” Ravens rookie head coach Jesse Minter said Saturday when asked about where he wants his rookies focused.

“For these guys, it's not always about gaining the trust of me or the coaches. It's really about gaining the trust of our veterans and our leaders – and they can do that over the course of the rest of the offseason program and in training camp. And most of the time, in my experience, even as just a defensive coach, the veteran players come to you and say, ‘Hey, that rookie is ready to help us,’ before you even say that as a coach.”

FIRST IMPRESSION? 'Foot in the door,' what Diego Pavia did at Ravens minicamp

Yet the NFL is a cruel zero-sum game. For every rookie who makes a strong enough impression – or gets drafted highly enough – to land on the 53-man roster, one of those veterans Minter mentioned is suddenly out of a job. And though the rooks and the vets haven’t mixed in practices yet, the older guys know plenty how this league works – and that they’re on notice amid the arrival of younger (and often cheaper) labor.

“I see a good room. But I want a great room. I want a dominant room. I want a bunch of pit bulls out there flying around making plays on the football,” new Giants coach John Harbaugh said specifically about his cornerbacks following the selection of Colton Hood in Round 2 − though almost any coach would apply that sentiment to each and every area of his roster.

“(H)e's going to light a fire in that room. You better be ready. You better be ready to compete.”

It’s a warning established players around the league should heed as the anticipatory aspect of the offseason gives way to an increasingly fraught one. As the 2026 season draws closer, here are 26 veterans who appear to be on thin ice in the aftermath of the 2026 draft:

QB Jacoby Brissett, Arizona Cardinals

Career QB2s are usually on shaky ground in some respect. However Brissett’s position could be increasingly tenuous given he’s angling for more money in 2026 … when the Cards could also turn to another capable understudy, Gardner Minshew II, if not third-rounder Carson Beck – who should get a long look at some point as this team assesses its QB plan for 2027 as well.

RB James Conner, Arizona Cardinals

He’s been the heartbeat of this team in the past. He’ll also be 31 this season, is coming back from a season-ending ankle injury and is probably ticketed for No. 3 on the depth chart following the signing of Tyler Allgeier in free agency and, certainly, the selection of RB Jeremiyah Love, maybe this draft’s best player, at No. 3 overall. Here’s hoping Conner maybe gets traded to a contender at some point this year as his impressive and inspiring career seemingly heads into its wind-down phase.

CB Mike Hughes, Atlanta Falcons

Never a star, the 2018 first-rounder has nevertheless hung around the league for a while. However he might not be much longer for the ATL as the Falcons prepare to team CB A.J. Terrell Jr. with his little brother, second-rounder Avieon Terrell, who’s comfortable lining up wide or in the slot.

WR Rashod Bateman, Baltimore Ravens

He’s signed through the 2029 season, yet the cap hit to release him is fairly negligible a year from now. But 19 catches in 13 games, Bateman’s production in 2025, just isn’t going to cut it – especially after Baltimore selected WRs Ja'Kobi Lane (Round 3) and Elijah Sarratt (Round 4), who are both bigger than Bateman.

OLB Tavius Robinson, Baltimore Ravens

After trading for Maxx Crosby before bailing out of the deal, signing Trey Hendrickson and, now, drafting Zion Young in the second round, it’s pretty obvious Baltimore’s rebooting defense is looking for more production off the edge – which might also include a much stronger sophomore season from 2025 second-rounder Mike Green. None of it portends well for Robinson, who’s been unremarkable in three seasons.

LT Ickey Ekwonu, Carolina Panthers

Not only did he rupture a patellar tendon in the playoffs, not only did the Panthers sign veteran LT Rasheed Walker in free agency, but Carolina also picked OT Monroe Freeling in Round 1. Could be tough for Ekwonu, the sixth overall pick in 2022 (now entering his fifth-year option), to get a second contract in Charlotte.

C Garrett Bradbury, Chicago Bears

Obtained via trade after Drew Dalman’s surprise retirement, Bradbury is likely just a short-term fix – and his contract expires after this season – following the arrival of Logan Jones in the second round.

DE Myles Murphy, Cincinnati Bengals

The 2023 first-rounder has 8½ sacks and 92 pressures, per Next Gen Stats, through three seasons – middling production that led Cincy to decline his fifth-year option … and on the heels of drafting fastball Cashius Howell in the second round. Connect the dots.

S Grant Delpit, Cleveland Browns

How long can the plus-sized, hard-hitting former second-round safety hold off a plus-sized, hard-hitting newly drafted second round safety – Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, who was widely expected to go in Round 1 this year?

QBs Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns

Watson, the lightning rod former Pro Bowler, has reached the final year of his controversial contract and Sanders is merely a former fifth-rounder despite the ability he showcased in college and flashed as a rookie. They’re now currently locked in a battle for the QB1 job, Watson perhaps pulling ahead. Regardless, given the amount of talent GM Andrew Berry has provided this year, both in terms of a radically revamped offensive line and two new wideouts in the draft – KC Concepcion (Round 1), Denzel Boston (Round 2) – one of the QBs better have a standout season if they’re going to dissuade Berry from taking another passer in the 2027 draft.

CB Keisean Nixon, Green Bay Packers

His age (29 by Week 1) and lame duck status with his contract set to expire in 2027 make Nixon the most vulnerable Pack corner – certainly in terms of his standing in 2027 – with talented Brandon Cisse onboarding via the second round.

G Patrick Mekari, Jacksonville Jaguars

There wasn’t much to like about the Jags’ draft, though third-round G Emmanuel Pregnon was perhaps the notable exception. Mekari didn’t distinguish himself last season, and his base salary balloons from $1.3 million in 2026 to $12 million in 2027. Whether or not Pregnon is the better player already, he’s most definitely the more cost effective one a year from now.

DT Chris Jones, Kansas City Chiefs

Be careful how much you teach the new guy, O.G. Jones is coming off his worst season in years, his 10.4% pressure rate the lowest he’s managed over the past eight seasons. He’ll also be 32 by Week 1, and has no guarantees in his contract after this season. And a Chiefs dynasty very much in a state of transition just overhauled its defense, including the selection of DT Peter Woods at the end of Round 1.

QB Kirk Cousins, Las Vegas Raiders

The soon-to-be 38-year-old knows he’s keeping the QB1 seat warm for No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza. The only question is for how long.

OLB Khalil Mack, Los Angeles Chargers

Once the 35-year-old stops taking one-year deals, the nine-time Pro Bowler’s Hall of Fame clock will start ticking. Will the arrival of first-rounder Akheem Mesidor, who’s even bigger than Mack and seems more likely to play inside as a rookie expedite the former Defensive Player of the Year’s departure? Stay tuned.

OT Austin Jackson, Miami Dolphins

A first-round pick in 2020, he’s never really lived up to that billing and is only under contract through this season. And while first-rounder Kadyn Proctor is set to play left guard in 2026, he played tackle exclusively at Alabama and seems destined to settle in there sooner or later.

LBs Jordyn Brooks and Tyrel Dodson, Miami Dolphins

The Fins’ projected starters at off-ball backer next season, both Brooks and Dodson are also on expiring contracts – though rookie GM Jon-Eric Sullivan has previously mentioned Brooks as a player he viewed as foundational. That was also before Sullivan drafted highly regarded ILB Jacob Rodriguez in the second round and seemed to get a steal by enlisting Kyle Louis in the fourth – though it remains to be seen if he’s a better fit at linebacker or safety, though he was drafted at the former position. Regardless, it seems inevitable that Rodriguez, a turnover-causing machine with strong leadership skills, will displace at least one of the vets currently ahead of him on the depth chart – and quite possibly this season.

OT Morgan Moses, New England Patriots

He’s been a solid player in the league for a long time, 175 regular-season starts under his belt. Moses is also 35 and struggled down the stretch last season, noticeably in the Super Bowl loss to Seattle. First-rounder Caleb Lomu mostly played on the left side in college but, with a bit of experience and added strength, he might be coming for Moses’ job sooner than later – if not displacing 2025 first-rounder Will Campbell on the left side and forcing him to shift into Moses’ post.

CB Deonte Banks, New York Giants

A first-rounder in 2023, he’s one of those corners Harbaugh is now keeping a close eye on. Banks’ fifth-year option is already gone and so, too, might be the bulk of his 2026 playing time given the arrival of second-rounder Colton Hood.

WR Darius Slayton, New York Giants

He’s hung around for a while as a third or fourth option for the G-Men. That might soon be third-rounder Malachi Fields’ role, whose 6-foot-4, 222-pound frame should immediately make him a candidate to play on third downs and in red-zone packages.

OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux, New York Giants

The G-Men haven’t unloaded the fifth overall pick of the 2022 draft. Yet. But when the first prominent pass rusher somewhere else in the league gets hurt, don’t be surprised if his team becomes the latest to inquire about Thibodeaux and his 23½ career sacks. After all, with the Giants able to roll out 2025 NFC sack leader Brian Burns, 2025 first-rounder Abdul Carter and Arvell Reese, this year’s No. 5 selection, Thibodeaux has become an expensive luxury – if one who can still be employed regularly if Reese breaks in at the second level rather than off the edge.

WR A.J. Brown, Philadelphia Eagles

As if the acquisitions of veterans Hollywood Brown and Dontayvion Wicks didn’t signal EVP/GM Howie Roseman’s intent to move on from Brown – likely next month, when the salary cap softens the team’s contractual hit – then certainly the trade up for Makai Lemon in Round 1 of the draft did.

OT Broderick Jones, Pittsburgh Steelers

A Round 1 selection three years ago, he only played in 11 games last season, is trying to come back from neck surgery – which is already casting a pall over his availability for the 2026 season – and didn’t get his fifth-year option picked up. And with newly minted first-rounder Max Iheanachor poised to bookend with Troy Fautanu, Jones very much seems like he’ll soon be the odd man out.

RB Zach Charbonnet, Seattle Seahawks

He got a ring, but it’s been a tough year for Charbonnet, who tore his ACL in the playoffs, missed the Super Bowl, is entering the walk year of his contract and will be vying for snaps with first-rounder Jadarian Price, who seems likely to get the bulk of departed Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III’s workload.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Shedeur Sanders among 26 NFL veterans on shaky ground after 2026 draft

The winners are in for the Pittsburgh Half Marathon!

Mohammed El Youssfi won the men’s division with a time of 1:01:44.

Not far behind him was the winner of the women’s division, Buza Diriba Kejela, who crossed the finish line with a record-fast time of 1:08:39.

Click here for the full half marathon race results.

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Leinster boss Leo Cullen says the media "love throwing the boot in" at the Irish province after his side saw off a late fightback from Toulon to reach another Investec Champions Cup final.

Last year's shock semi-final loss to Northampton Saints in Dublin denied Leinster a fourth straight final in a competition they have not won since 2018.

In the final 11 minutes against Toulon on Saturday, Leinster saw an 18-point lead cut to just four, with the French side almost completing a sensational comeback but denied by a cover tackle from New Zealand back Rieko Ioane.

Cullen's side, who narrowly lost three straight finals from 2022-2024 to French opposition, have not been at their usual high standards during this year's tournament but savoured the 29-25 win.

"You would love everyone to get behind the team now," Leinster's director of rugby said post-match. "When you are up against juggernauts of the game, it is not easy doing it.

"You see the other Irish provinces, we are the only ones left in the competition. The group will continue to do what they do, it is not always pretty.

"We are up against some serious teams here. It is insanely hard to win this competition.

"You guys [the media] love throwing the boot at us, don't you? You guys love throwing the boot in when things don't go well.

"Whatever sells, you read plenty of it. The courage the players showed, it is a testament."

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Cullen and Leinster, who had comfortably cruised through the tournament last season, came under intense scrutiny after Northampton's fast start saw them take a 12-point lead at half-time.

The four-time champions fought back and almost snatched the game at the death, with Cullen revisiting late refereeing decisions that cost his side in the 37-34 defeat last May.

A year on, he defended his side, who had previously never beaten three-time champions Toulon, and said he always expects a Champions Cup semi-final to "never go to script".

"Naturally [in the last 10 minutes] you try and protect things, don't you? Whereas the other team they don't have protection and throw everything at it," he added.

"We were sitting in this room this time last year. We were in that situation and we were throwing everything at Northampton. [Henry] Pollock gets a poach – it should have been a penalty.

"It's clearly illegal, but nobody wants to report about it after. We should have had a penalty try and nobody wants to report about it. You just want to kick the boot into us, don't you? But that's the way it goes.

"Semi-finals come down to the tightest of margins. In 2012, Wesley Fofana knocked the ball over the tryline and that is how we [Leinster] got to the final.

"I would be kind to Toulon as they showed great spirit to the very end."

Leinster will travel to Bilbao for the final on Saturday, 23 May, where they will face last year's champions Bordeaux-Begles or Bath, who play on Sunday.

Cullen confirmed centre Robbie Henshaw and flanker Josh van der Flier, who left the field with head injuries, will undergo the graduated return-to-play protocol.

Flanker Jack Conan limped off and "will get checked", with Tommy O'Brien said to be likely suffering from cramp.

All four are important players for Cullen as Leinster seek a fifth Champions Cup in three weeks' time.

A former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback-wide receiver hybrid has found a new home after his untimely release from the Steel City brand of football.

According to the UFL Communications Department's X account, ex-Steelers QB/WR John Rhys Plumlee signed with the Houston Gamblers following their Week 6 loss to the Columbus Aviators.

Termination Via Waiver System:
Birmingham
WR, Laviska Shenault Jr.

DC
OLB, Durrell Johnson

Free Agent Signing:
Houston
QB, John Rhys Plumlee

— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) May 3, 2026

In April 2024, Plumlee signed with the Steelers as an undrafted free agent and spent the offseason with Pittsburgh before being waived in August 2024. He signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars' practice squad shortly after but was released in November 2024.

Plumlee signed with the Seattle Seahawks' practice squad one week later and would eventually be signed to the active roster as a wide receiver. In August 2025, he was waived by Seattle with an injury designation as a part of final roster cuts.

For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Ex-Steelers QB/WR John Rhys Plumlee joins UFL's Houston Gamblers

Are you ready for an announcement of an upcoming announcement?

The NFL is expected to announce its 2026 schedule later this month. Last year, the league announced the date for its schedule announcement during the first round of the NFL draft in late April. No such announcement was made during the 2026 NFL draft last month.

Each year, select networks announce key games ahead of the official NFL announcement — usually in the same week, just a few days before the full announcement. As @OzzyNFL has pointed out, NBC, Fox and Amazon are set to announce select games on Monday, May 11. ESPN will make an announcement on Tuesday, May 12. So it seems reasonable to assume the full schedule will be announced sometime next week.

Last year, the league announced its schedule on a Wednesday. Assuming they do the same this year, Wednesday, May 13, seems like a good guess for the full schedule release. While we wait, fans can view the Denver Broncos' list of 2026 opponents. Dates, times and television channels are TBA.

Social: Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X! Did you know: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.

This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: When will the NFL announce 2026 schedule?

A coach built for the moment: John Tortorella and the Golden Knights’ playoff rise originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

No matter how the Vegas Golden Knights fare in these Stanley Cup Playoffs, John Tortorella is likely to be back behind the bench next season—and, truthfully, that arrangement probably works for everyone involved.

It’s not difficult to understand why. Tortorella has never really been a “rebuild” coach. That’s not his world, and it’s never really been his approach. His strength has always come from taking a team that already has a foundation and squeezing more out of it—tightening the edges, raising the standard, and making everything just a little more uncomfortable in the best possible way. The Philadelphia Flyers experienced that firsthand, for better and for worse.

None of that is meant as criticism. Tortorella remains one of the most recognizable and forceful coaching voices in the sport. But coaching, at its core, is never one-size-fits-all. Some coaches are builders—patient, developmental, willing to endure the slow burn of shaping a roster from scratch. Others are accelerators—figures who walk into an established room and immediately raise the temperature, demanding structure, urgency, and accountability from day one.

Tortorella has always lived in the second category.

Intensity Meets Context

That distinction always brings me back to something more personal. My father was a Marine Corps officer—twenty-five years of service, deeply disciplined, and the kind of man who could dissect almost anything technical with precision, especially when it came to firearms and mechanics. He started trying to coach me the moment I turned five. And to be fair, “developmental pacing” was not always his strong suit.

There were moments when people would step in and gently say, “Hey… your son is five… maybe take it down just a notch?”

Looking back, it wasn’t that anything was wrong—it was simply intensity meeting the wrong context. The same message, delivered with the same urgency, doesn’t always land the same way depending on who’s receiving it. That’s really the underlying thread here: coaching, leadership, even parenting at times, is as much about reading the room as it is about knowing the message.

MORE: Golden Knights record since hiring John Tortorella: How new Vegas coach has turned team around to set up playoffs run

Tortorella understands that better than most in the NHL. He’s not trying to manufacture identity from nothing. He’s trying to refine what already exists—sharpening habits, tightening structure, and pulling teams closer to a standard they may already know but don’t always consistently reach.

In many ways, that’s exactly why he fits this moment in Vegas.

A Calculated Shift In Vegas

The Golden Knights made a bold and widely debated decision late in the season, moving on from Bruce Cassidy with just eight games remaining. Cassidy, after all, had already delivered a Stanley Cup in 2023. But internally, something had clearly stalled. The urgency wasn’t as sharp, the edge wasn’t as consistent, and the team looked like it was running on familiar patterns rather than fresh conviction.

Since then, Kelly McCrimmon’s decision has started to feel less like a gamble and more like timing—imperfect, but intentional. Under Tortorella, Vegas closed the regular season with a 7–0–1 surge, snapping back into rhythm almost immediately and carrying that momentum straight into the post-season. That momentum hasn’t faded. The Golden Knights have already advanced to the second round after eliminating the Utah Mammoth in six games, punctuated by a composed 5–1 finish in Game 6.

What once looked like a team searching for answers now feels like one that has rediscovered its voice.

Stars Recalibrated, Not Reinvented

A big part of that shift has been the way the core has started to function more like a single unit rather than a collection of talent.

Jack Eichel finished the regular season with 27 goals and 63 assists for 90 points, while Mitch Marner added 24 goals and 56 assists for 80 points in his first season in Vegas following a sign-and-trade from Toronto. On paper, the production was strong. But at different points in the year, it didn’t always feel fully connected—like the gears were turning, but not quite locked in.

That changed quickly once Tortorella arrived.

MORE: Golden Knights vs. Mammoth schedule: Dates, times, TV channels, scores for NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs first-round series

Over the final eight regular-season games, Eichel produced 12 points (two goals and 10 assists), while Marner added nine points (four goals and five assists). The numbers matter, but what stood out more was how they arrived—quicker decisions, cleaner transitions, less hesitation. The game looked simpler, but faster.

That’s the version of Vegas that has carried into the playoffs: not rebuilt, not reimagined—just sharpened.

Trust, Goaltending, And A Turning Point

It hasn’t been limited to the skaters, either. Earlier in the season, goaltending was a legitimate question mark. Carter Hart, Akira Schmid, and Adin Hill all had stretches where consistency evaporated at the worst possible times, and it showed in the results.

Since Hart returned from a lower-body injury, however, the picture has started to stabilize in a way Vegas desperately needed.

Tortorella has seen Hart navigate pressure before—not just behind the bench in Vegas, but also in his broader career around the game, including his time as a commentator on ESPN. So when the Golden Knights found themselves trailing 2–1 in the series against the Mammoth, Tortorella was asked whether there was any consideration of pulling him.

“If there’s one player I have an advantage with here — I’m still trying to figure out the guys — but if there’s one player I do know very well, it’s him,” Tortorella said of Hart.

MORE: Carter Hart's Early Post-Season Success With The Golden Knights Is A Product Of Familiarity With John Tortorella

After watching his starter allow the first four goals of a 4–2 Game 3 loss in Salt Lake City, Tortorella said he never once considered making a change to Adin Hill, the same goaltender who helped Vegas win the Stanley Cup in 2023.

“I know Carter well enough; he wants to work through it,” Tortorella said. “I have faith in him. There was no thought of taking him out.”

That trust didn’t announce itself loudly. It didn’t need to. It simply settled into the room. And from there, the response came quickly: three straight wins, a series clinched, and a team that looked far more composed than it did just days earlier.

A System Built For Moments Like This

One of the first questions Tortorella faced upon taking over was what he planned to change. His answer, in essence, was nothing drastic. Let them play. Let them compete. Tighten the details, but don’t reinvent the group.

That restraint matters. Because this isn’t a roster in need of reinvention—it’s a roster in need of alignment.

The Golden Knights don’t require a new identity. They require consistency within the one they already have. That is precisely the kind of environment where Tortorella has historically thrived.

Vegas already has elite scoring, capable goaltending, and a blend of physicality and skill that plays well in post-season hockey. It’s not a team searching for itself—it’s a team trying to stay locked in as the stakes rise.

A Familiar Kind Of Opportunity

This is also the kind of roster that aligns naturally with Tortorella’s track record. His 2004 Stanley Cup run with the Tampa Bay Lightning came with a similar blend—high-end scoring, dependable goaltending, and a supporting cast willing to embrace structure and physicality when it mattered most.

The Golden Knights weren’t widely projected to reach this point, especially given how their regular season closed. But now, like so many playoff teams before them, they’ve quietly shifted from uncertainty to something more dangerous: belief paired with execution.

There’s a long way to go, and nothing about the post-season is linear. But Vegas has already crossed the threshold from surviving to contending.

If this run continues, it won’t just be a story about timing or talent. It will be about fit—about a coach who thrives when the foundation is already there, and a team that finally feels like it’s playing with clarity instead of hesitation.

Whatever happens next, one thing already feels clear: John Tortorella hasn’t just landed in Vegas for a moment. He’s landed in the kind of situation he’s spent his entire career preparing for.

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The 2026 WNBA preseason wraps up on Sunday with a four-game slate.

The Washington Mystics visit the Atlanta Dream (3 p.m. ET, WNBA League Pass), while the New York Liberty meet the Connecticut Sun (5 p.m. ET, ION). On the campus of the University of Texas, the Las Vegas Aces and Dallas Wings will face off (7 p.m. ET, ION). Then, the Portland Fire host the Los Angeles Sparks (7 p.m. ET, WNBA League Pass.)

What do you want to see from certain teams and/or players in their final exhibition opportunities? Let us know in the comments!

I’ll have my eye on players who have yet to play in preseason, especially those who are with new teams or in different contexts.

Although the Mystics will not have their full big rotation ready to go, as Shakira Austin remains out due to reconditioning, Kiki Iriafen is expected to play, meaning we should get to see her play alongside Lauren Betts. How they work together, particularly as almost every Mystics lineup will not have a lot of shooting from the perimeter, will be interesting to observe. On the other side, Naz Hillmon hopefully will be available for Atlanta, which will give a look at the Dream’s currently-healthy best five of Hillmon, Angel Reese, Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray and Jordin Canada.

For New York, Satou Sabally is questionable, although head coach Chris DeMarco indicated she is expected to play. That should permit a first perspective of the dynamic of the Sabally-Breanna Stewart-Jonquel Jones frontcourt. However, the Liberty still will be without a lot of other pieces who are expected to contribute, allowing for only limited understanding of how the DeMarco-led Liberty will come together on both sides of the ball.

With Leïla Lacan and Nell Angloma still overseas, the Sun remain without two of their most intriguing players. The matchup with New York, however, should serve as a tough test for Aneesah Morrow. Let’s see if Nees can still be a beast on the boards against all the Liberty’s size.

In Austin, little that happens on the court for Las Vegas will alter opinions about the Aces. As Edwin Garcia wrote, the Aces have earned the right to focus on much larger matters.

In contrast, every little thing matters for a Dallas team looking to establish a winning culture. Unfortunately, the team is still incomplete, as Arike Ogunbowale and Awak Kueir both remain absent. While Arike is now with the team, she’s dealing with an ankle injury; Kueir is still overseas. Alanna Smith is questionable with a quad issue, although Jessica Shepard should make her Dallas debut.

The Wings’ opening preseason win was an encouraging one for Paige Bueckers, while Odyssey Sims affirmed her value as a vet presence who still possess on-court pop and Aziaha James looked liked a leading Sixth Player of the Year candidate. Hopefully, Azzi Fudd cashes in on her first WNBA triple on Sunday.

All Sparks are set to be available against the Fire, meaning Nneka Ogwumike, who Edwin argued is the key to everything for LA, will make her Sparks re-debut. Nneka’s availability also should shed more light on the potential role for Cameron Brink, whose chance of a third-season ascent seemingly has been blocked by the Sparks’ decision to prioritize win-now veterans.

Fire fans will get their first look at Bridget Carleton, who is scheduled to play after missing Portland’s first preseason game. Although it might be a bit unfair, she’ll take the court with significant expectations, as the No. 1 pick in the expansion draft who received a max contract. There’s also pressure on head coach Alex Sarama, with his reputation as an innovative offensive mind, to begin to show how he intends to maximize Carleton.

Paul Merson expressed his admiration for Viktor Gyokeres following Arsenal’s match against Fulham, where the Swedish forward came close to scoring a first-half hat-trick against the Cottagers. His performance marked a significant improvement and attracted positive attention.

Gyokeres had previously faced criticism for not fully replicating the form he displayed at Sporting Club, where he scored almost 100 goals across two seasons. Expectations were high following his move to Arsenal, but his goal return at the Emirates had initially fallen short.

Gyokeres Shows Improvement

Arsenal have remained confident in his ability to deliver, and his display against Fulham offered clear evidence of his potential. The forward scored twice and consistently troubled the opposition defence, demonstrating both composure and attacking intelligence.

His movement and link-up play were particularly effective, allowing Arsenal to maintain sustained pressure throughout the match. Although he could have added further goals, his overall contribution was widely regarded as a step forward.

With several fixtures remaining, Gyokeres has the opportunity to build on this performance and increase his goal tally in his debut season. Continued improvement would strengthen his position within the squad and justify the investment made in him.

Merson’s Reaction

As reported by the BBC, Merson praised the striker’s display and highlighted the growing confidence within the team when playing alongside him.

He said, “That was the best I’ve seen him play. It reminded me of Haaland.

“The players trust him a lot more, they were playing it in to him and he felt more confident.”

Gyokeres is beginning to establish stronger relationships with his teammates, which could be crucial to his long-term success at the club. Increased trust and confidence may allow him to perform more consistently in the coming matches.

If he continues in this manner, Gyokeres could become a key figure for Arsenal as they pursue their objectives this season.

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Darren Bent believes Fulham’s approach helped Arsenal

3 May 2026, 10:30

Agyeman Addae doesn’t need to look far when it comes to what he wants to accomplish this season. The UCF running back points to a banner hanging in the Nicholson Fieldhouse that proudly commemorates the program’s three appearances in New Year’s Six bowl games.

“I want us to go back,” he said. “I want us to go even further than that … to go to a national championship.”

It’s been nearly seven years since the Knights’ last appearance in the 2019 Fiesta Bowl, but anybody who knows Addae wouldn’t be shocked by his bold prediction.

The 5-foot-9, 190-pound Addae has been proving people wrong throughout most of his life.

As a true freshman walk-on, Addae stepped up to the plate after Taevion Swint faced a season-ending surgery for a meniscus injury in fall camp and Stacy Gage went under the knife for a lower-leg injury he suffered against West Virginia on Oct. 18.

Addae quickly found himself on the field helping out as starters Jaden Nixon and Myles Montgomery, especially later in the season.

Although he finished with just 12 carries for 50 yards throughout the season, it was in the season finale at BYU on Nov. 29 that Addae truly shone. The Miami native delivered a standout performance with five receptions for 62 yards, including a 20-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter.

But it was a 4-yard touchdown pass to quarterback Tayven Jackson late in the third quarter that left people stunned.

“(I threw) a little bit in Little League, but not in high school,” Addae said of the pass.

“It was fun to get in there and show them what I could do and show the world what I could do, but that was just a flash of it and I hope to do more of it this year and in the coming years,” Addae added about last season.

UCF running backs coach Jimmy Beal offers nothing but praise for the job Addae did last season.

“His ability to understand the game, his maturity and his approach allowed him to get on the field because he knows his job. He knows the system,” Beal said.

The true freshman made a seamless transition from his days at Miami’s Columbus High School to college football in Orlando.

“It felt so natural,” Addae explained. “Columbus was run like a college. So, when I came here, it was like, ‘Dang, this is just like high school all over again, but just a little bigger.” So I felt comfortable going into it (the season).”

Beal has been so impressed with Addae as a person that he’s reached out to his father, Jahmile, who’s spent more than two decades as a coach and is currently the Miami Dolphins’ cornerbacks coach.

After 3 seasons, UCF edge rusher Isaiah Nixon is ready for his moment

“I’ve got my son and he’s 10, so I’m asking, ‘How do you do it? I need this knowledge,’ ” Beal said. “AG is kind of like my son. He has the ability, the mindset and a work ethic, and I love it for him.”

“My father is my everything,” Addae said. “My mom, too, but my dad has shown me how to be myself and how to take what he has done in the coaching world and apply it to myself to be a professional and a hard worker. My dad’s a really hard worker, and that’s one thing that’s translated from him to me.”

Father and son communicate frequently, especially about football.

“If I have a question, I’ll just hit him up and be like, ‘Dad, what do you think about this play? Do you think I could have done it better?’ ” Addae recalled.

UCF needed to restructure its running back unit with the departures of Montgomery and Nixon, so the Knights added a pair of transfers in Landen Chambers (Central Arkansas) and Duke Watson (Louisville), coupled with returners Swint, Addae and Chance Nixon. The unit also signed a pair of high school standouts in Kaj Baker and Arthur Lewis IV.

“Is there even a weakness?” Addae said. “We can do everything and that’s what makes our running back group so special. And in fact, the new running backs coming in here are getting it even faster than we did last year.”

Addae hopes to get bigger, stronger and faster before fall camp opens in August. Either way, he wants to do whatever is necessary to win games.

“I could do whatever you need,” he said. “I could throw the ball or run it in … I can do it all.”

Please find me on X, Bluesky or Instagram @osmattmurschel. Email: mmurschel@orlandosentinel.com. Sign up for the Sentinel’s Knights Weekly newsletter for a roundup of all our UCF coverage.

Only on Saturday evening did FC Schalke 04 show what it takes to earn promotion to the Bundesliga. With tremendous fighting spirit and even more energy, the Royal Blues ground down Fortuna Düsseldorf yesterday.

However, the competition from Hannover and Paderborn does not seem to have taken the blue-and-white masterclass as an example and is currently outdoing itself in cowardly football.

In front of their own fans, 96 found themselves 0:2 down against bottom-of-the-table Münster at one point. Only shortly before half-time did a quickfire double from Mustapha Bundu produce an INCREDIBLY important equaliser.

SC Paderborn, meanwhile, are making an even bigger fool of themselves. Before the matchday they were still in second place, but in the direct promotion showdown with Elversberg, the East Westphalians are simply trailing 0:4(!) after 45 minutes. 

The result: as things stand, the small-town warriors from Saarland have secured the automatic promotion spot behind Schalke. Hannover follow in third place, while embarrassing Paderborn have dropped to fourth.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

In 2025, TNT Sports took over broadcasting rights of the tennis‘s second grand slam of the year, the French Open at Roland Garros, from NBC.

There was a flurry of excitement and a lot of information released beforehand on who would be the broadcast personalities and analysts in a reimagined way of covering the event.

TNT Sports kicked off the 10-year broadcasting deal, featuring Sloane Stephens and Venus Williams, and earned rave reviews.

MORE: Former WTA World No. 1 Ash Barty answers quickly when asked about a tennis comeback

Three weeks away and no news from TNT Sports

This year, Stephens and Williams may be wildcards in the French Open draw. TNT, which prided itself on getting younger talent, may be on the hunt for new media personalities. Perhaps that’s why we have not heard anything.

The network knows it will unlikely be able to top last year’s men’s final since Carlos Alcaraz is out of the tournament.

MORE: Marta Kostyuk wins but the postmatch Madrid Open drama steals the show

What we know about the 2026 French Open

Coco Gauff will be vying to defend her title, and Jannik Sinner is shooting for a win to complete his Career Grand Slam.

Qualifying will begin on May 18. The main draw ceremony is expected to occur on May 22.

Singles draw play begins on May 25, doubles on May 28, and mixed doubles on June 1.

The women’s singles final will be on June 6 followed by the men’s singles final on June 7.

Coming off the 2024-25 season, Oregon Ducks center Nate Bittle was considered a potential second round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. But after going through parts of the draft process, he decided to return to Oregon and attempt to bolster his draft stock with another season in Eugene.

While Bittle still averaged 16.8 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, last season was a disaster for the Ducks on all fronts. They won just 12 games and Bittle suffered a foot injury that sidelined him for several weeks, among a string of injuries across the roster.

Now having exhausted his eligibility, Bittle is leaning all the way into the draft process with hopes of hearing his name called during the 2026 NBA Draft — yet it will be an uphill battle, as he was left off the initial list of invitees to the scouting combine in Chicago from May 10-17. Instead, Bittle was invited to the G League Elite Camp, where he'll aim to excel and eventually earn a late invite to the NBA's combine.

Bittle was listed among USA TODAY's top players to not receive an invite to the 2026 NBA Scouting Combine, but rather being invited to the G League's version of the event.

Having finished the season healthy and having to fight just to make it to the scouting combine, the expectation is that Bittle will participate in everything at the G League Elite Camp, which will include agility and strength testing, on-court drills and scrimmages.

The same drills take place at the scouting combine, plus meetings with NBA teams, but it remains to be seen if the former Duck will work his way into a spot and be able to compete in Chicago.

Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.  

This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Oregon's Nate Bittle snubbed from 2026 NBA Scouting Combine

Joel Embiid makes plea to 76ers fans ahead of Knicks series originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

On Saturday night, the Philadelphia 76ers completed a 3-1 comeback against the Boston Celtics in the opening round of the NBA Playoffs, making it their first series win against their historic rivals since 1982.

Philadelphia’s triumph over Boston in the final match of the series was a result of offensive wizardry from the likes of Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, and most of all, Joel Embiid.

The Sixers’ backcourt would finish the game with a combined 53 points, as Edgecombe drained five shots from beyond the arc, while Maxey came up big in clutch time, dropping ten points in the fourth quarter alone.

The aforementioned Embiid would have yet a greater impact against a side that has haunted him throughout his career, finishing with 34 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists. This success on the court shouldn’t have been all too much of a surprise given that the former MVP averages a 26-point, 11-rebound double-double in his career against Boston.

From here, the Sixers get a day off and will be in Madison Square Garden on Monday night for their first match against the New York Knicks.

One of the interesting facets of the upcoming series is the distance between the two sides, which is less than 100 miles. This makes going to away games incredibly easy for fans who want to show out.

Joel Embiid makes a request of the Philadelphia faithful

This was the case when the two rivals met during the 2024 NBA Playoffs, when there was a noticeable amount of Knicks fans at the Sixers' home area, the then Wells Fargo Center.

"If you need the money, I got you."

Sixers fans DO NOT sell your tickets ‼️ pic.twitter.com/qW7rYv4JO5

— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) May 3, 2026

But the aforementioned Cameroonian star had a plea to the Philadelphia faithful ahead of their series: to not give up their tickets against New York.

“I just have a message for our fans. The last time we played the Knicks, it felt like this was Madison Square Garden East,” Embiid stated to the press. “So we’re going to need the support, you know, don’t sell your tickets. This is bigger than you, we need you guys, the atmosphere that we’ve had the last couple of games in Philly, especially the last one, pushing it to game seven, we need all of it.”

Game one between New York and Philadelphia is set for Monday night, with tip-off slated for 8:00 p.m. EST.

More NBA news: 

• Warriors' Steph Curry details difficult return from nagging knee injury
• Kristaps Porzingis gets brutally honest regarding his future with Warriors
• How Luka Doncic could still win NBA MVP award despite season-ending injury
• Collin Gillespie breaks Phoenix Suns' 3-point record for a single season
• Zion Williamson gets brutally honest regarding his future with New Orleans Pelicans

Barcelona’s search for young attacking talent has led them to monitor Armando Gonzalez, and while nothing concrete has developed yet, the player himself has now added fuel to the conversation with his latest comments.

The 22-year-old forward has previously been linked with Barcelona, with reports suggesting that initial contact had even been made through his family. 

At this stage, however, there is no advanced negotiation, and the situation remains open.

Praise for Lamine Yamal

In an interview with SPORT, the young forward was asked about Lamine Yamal, and Gonzalez did not hold back in his admiration. 

He said that the Barcelona youngster is already among the very best in the game. 

“Yes, who doesn’t [like Lamine]? I think he’s one of the best in the world right now, and what he does week in, week out is incredible. 

“I’d love to have him as a teammate. Being able to play alongside the best in the world is one of my goals, and Lamine Yamal is one of them. 

“So if I’m lucky enough to play with him, it’ll be a wonderful experience.”

European interest

With rumours linking him to European clubs, Gonzalez remains calm and focused on his development. 

He explained how he avoids getting distracted by speculation. “I try to focus on my day-to-day life. If it happens, I’d be very grateful; if not, I’ll work to make it happen. 

“My father and my agents are very cautious about it and prefer not to fill my head with it, so I don’t get distracted, and I’m very grateful to them for that. I’m focused on my own game.”

Barcelona are keeping an eye on Armando Gonzalez. (Photo by Simon Barber/Getty Images)

The forward also admitted that playing in Europe is a long-term dream, and he is open to making that move when the time is right. 

“Yes, I’d give it a go, because it’s a dream of mine. But if it doesn’t happen, it’s no big deal; I’ll keep working. And if it does happen, I’ll be very grateful.”

He further added that he is not tied to any specific league, keeping his options open. 

“I like all the leagues. They’re all top-flight leagues where I’d love to play. It’s a dream I’ve had since I was a child: to play in Europe and keep developing.”

Barcelona admiration made clear

When asked directly if he would like to play for Barcelona, Gonzalez did not hesitate, stating, 

“Yes, of course, who wouldn’t? Barça is one of the best teams in history. 

“For me, Guardiola’s team is legendary, and what they’re doing now under Hansi Flick is also very important. Every player wants to get there. If it happens, I’d be very grateful.”

Despite that admiration, he revealed an interesting personal detail about his football loyalties when asked to pick between Barcelona and Real Madrid. 

“It might come as a surprise, but I support Atletico Madrid. My dad spent some time in Madrid and used to bring my brother and me Atletico merchandise, and I really liked it. 

“Plus, I like Cholo Simeone’s style: the commitment, the fight, never giving up, taking it one game at a time,” he concluded.

The Jacksonville Jaguars were named a fit for free agent Jadeveon Clowney, who remains one of the best available pass rushers following the 2026 NFL draft.

With the dust having settled on the NFL draft, Zachary Pereles of CBS Sports highlighted the biggest position of need for all 32 teams and then noted a free agent to fill that need as well.

When it came to the Jaguars, Pereles believes that Jacksonville must still address their pass rush, and suggested that Clowney would be a good fit for that.

"The Jaguars have had a difficult offseason, losing Devin Lloyd and Trevis Etienne Jr. in free agency and having a baffling draft thereafter," Pereles wrote. "Offensive line could use an upgrade or two, even after the Emmanuel Pregnon selection, but Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker desperately need some help. Clowney continues to be productive against the run and the pass."

Clowney, a three-time Pro Bowler, has remained productive throughout his NFL career. Over the last two seasons, he's totaled 40-plus quarterback pressures with 14 total sacks. He's also not that far removed from a big 2023 season, when he recorded a career-high 78 pressures with Baltimore.

Bolstering the pass rush has been on the offseason to-do list for the Jaguars. Last season, Jacksonville ranked 18th in pressure rate and 27th in sacks.

In the draft, the Jaguars added Wesley Williams and Zach Durfee to the mix. They will compete with BJ Green and Danny Striggow for the rotational snaps behind Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker.

That said, those four players have little to no experience at the NFL level. So while there is competition for playing time, whether or not that turns to production remains to be seen. This is why adding a veteran presence, like Clowney, to the mix does make some sense.

On the flip side, rostering Clowney likely means parting with one of the team's young pass rushers during roster cutdowns. Rostering seven defensive ends isn't feasible. So another question is, are the Jaguars willing to do that for a veteran on what is likely a one-year deal?

The Jaguars do not have an abundance of salary cap space, but no signing at this stage of the offseason should break the bank either.

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Jaguars named fit for free agent Jadeveon Clowney after NFL draft

Barcelona Atletic have just missed out on a promotion play-off place following a 3-1 defeat to Torrent CF on the final day of the season.

Juliano Belletti’s side went down to 10 men in the first half when Guillem Víctor was sent off after picking up two yellow cards. Torrent took advantage almost immediately and went ahead with a header from a corner.

However, their lead did not last too long as Barca Atletic rallied and equalised in sensational style through Toni Fernandez to ensure they went in at half-time level at 1-1.

Belletti’s side then went behind after 71 minutes thanks to another goal from a corner for Torrent before another goal on the counter-attack effetively finished off their chances of taking the three points.

The result means that Barcelona Atletic finish the season in sixth place, just three points off the last promotion play-off place.

Captain Alvaro Cortes admitted afterwards the players were hurting at just missing out.

“The locker room is hurt and frustrated for not achieving the season’s goal. Today’s match is a reflection of the season,” he told Jijantes.

“For me, the season is good. I was at the World Cup with Spain, lately with the first team… wherever they send me, I’ll perform. Today’s result leaves me disappointed. It’s a tough moment.

“There have been many things that have affected us; injuries, first-team dynamics, reserve team… but the ones to blame for not achieving promotion are us.”

It’s been a tough campaign for Belletti’s side, with injuries to key players have had a big impact, and they will now have to try and do it all again next season.

Ravens Stick to Their Board on Lane, Hibner Picks

Not every Ravens pick lined up with public consensus, but that’s never been how they operate. On The Lounge Podcast, GM Eric DeCosta doubled down on their process when discussing selections like Ja'Kobi Lane and Matt Hibner.

“Our board is our board. We do months of work, and sometimes our evaluations differ from public consensus. Ja’Kobi Lane is a big receiver — 6’4”, ran a 4.46, excellent at contested catches with great hands. He has a connection through Todd Heap. We think he can be a real weapon for Lamar, especially adding big-bodied jump-ball guys after losing some speed.”

He also explained the aggressive move to go get Hibner:

“For Matt Hibner (tight end), we actually traded up 21 spots to get him. That’s rare for us, but we saw great value. He’s athletic and productive. We gave up a future sixth-round pick and felt it was worth it to move from the fifth to the fourth round.”

The aggressive move underscores how highly the Ravens view Hibner's combination of production and athleticism, as well as their desire to add versatility to the Declan Doyle-led offense. Together, the mid-round selections of Lane and Hibner reflect Baltimore's commitment to evolving its passing attack—adding size, physicality, and playmaking ability to complement its established offensive identity.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens GM details Ja'Kobi Lane fit, Matt Hibner move up value

The barnstorming baseball circus that is the Savannah Bananas pack stadiums across the U.S. But they've never seen anything like what they saw Saturday, May 2.

The Bananas packed 102,000 fans into Texas A&M's Kyle Field in College Station. It was the Bananas' biggest game ever.

102,000 Savannah Bananas fans Saw ‘em Off during the Aggie War Hymn here at Kyle Field. pic.twitter.com/82Q8jODv7d

— Ian Curtis (@Texiancurtis) May 3, 2026

The setup of the field provided quite a short porch in left field, which players took advantage of.

The Savannah Bananas collect the FIRST home run at Kyle Field 🏟️@ReeseAlexiades takes advantage of the short porch in College Station 💣 pic.twitter.com/h5VpSUTuVc

— Banana Ball (@BananaBall_) May 3, 2026

Kyle Stadium is the fourth-largest college football stadium in the nation, trailing only Michigan Stadium (107,601), Beaver Stadium (106,572) and Ohio Stadium (102,780).

The Bananas college tour will continue with games at Tennessee's Neyland Stadium (May 23; 101,821 capacity) Nebraska's Memorial Stadium (June 13; 85,458), Oregon's Autzen Stadium (June 27-28; 54,000) and Iowa's Kinnick Stadium (July 3-4, 69,218).

Check out some of the scenes from Saturday's record-breaking game:

Here we goooooo! https://t.co/885693bsY6

— Savannah Bananas (@TheSavBananas) May 1, 2026

A couple of dudes showed up tonight at Kyle Field...it was perfect🤪@DudePerfectpic.twitter.com/4Ib0JmKA4c

— Savannah Bananas (@TheSavBananas) May 3, 2026

College Station is ready for Banana Ball pic.twitter.com/0QLCKr0plZ

— Banana Ball (@BananaBall_) May 2, 2026

The Aggie War Hymn during a Savannah Bananas game at Kyle Field while a guy hits off a unicycle: pic.twitter.com/bK56tYRKhO

— Brent Zwerneman (@BrentZwerneman) May 3, 2026

Over 100,000 for the Savannah Bananas at Kyle Field #bananaball@thebananation@BananaBall_pic.twitter.com/8685LS8owz

— Kris Heckmann (@KrisHeckmann) May 3, 2026

Savannah Bananas remaining 2026 schedule, how to buy tickets

• May 7 - Oneok Field Tulsa, Okla. - Shop tickets
• May 8 - Truist Park in Atlanta - Shop tickets
• May 9 - Truist Park in Atlanta - Shop tickets
• May 10 - Truist Park in Atlanta - Shop tickets
• May 14 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• May 15 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• May 16 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• May 21 - Covenant Health Park in Knoxville, Tenn. - Shop tickets
• May 23 - Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. - Shop tickets
• May 30 - Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. - Shop tickets
• May 31 - Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. - Shop tickets
• June 4 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• June 5 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• June 6 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• June 11 - Haymarket Park in Lincoln, Neb. - Shop tickets
• June 13 - Memorial Stadium Nebraska in Lincoln, Neb. - Shop tickets
• June 19 - Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, Ohio - Shop tickets
• June 20 - Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, Ohio - Shop tickets
• June 21 - Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, Ohio - Shop tickets
• June 27 - Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore. - Shop tickets
• June 28 - Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore. - Shop tickets
• July 3 - Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa - Shop tickets
• July 4 - Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa - Shop tickets
• July 24 - Wrigley Field in Chicago - Shop tickets
• July 25 - Wrigley Field in Chicago - Shop tickets
• July 26 - Wrigley Field in Chicago - Shop tickets
• July 30 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• July 31 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• Aug. 1 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• Aug. 7 - Target Field in Minneapolis, Minn. - Shop tickets
• Aug. 8 - Target Field in Minneapolis, Minn. - Shop tickets
• Aug. 9 - Target Field in Minneapolis, Minn. - Shop tickets
• Aug. 14 - Coors Field in Denver - Shop tickets
• Aug. 15 - Coors Field in Denver - Shop tickets
• Aug. 21 - Busch Stadium in St. Louis - Shop tickets
• Aug. 22 - Busch Stadium in St. Louis - Shop tickets
• Aug. 28 - Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass. - Shop tickets
• Aug. 29 - Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass. - Shop tickets
• Sept. 11 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• Sept. 12 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• Sept. 13 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• Sept. 18 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• Sept. 19 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• Sept. 20 - Historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, Ga. - Shop tickets
• Sept. 25 - Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas - Shop tickets
• Sept. 26 - Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas - Shop tickets
• Sept. 27 - Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas - Shop tickets

Shop 2026 Savannah Bananas tickets

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Savannah Bananas pack Texas A&M's Kyle Field. See unique set up

Mateo Villalba via Getty Images

The top tennis players in the world are gathering in Rome this week for the 2026 Internazionali BNL d’Italia, a clay court tournament also known as the Italian Open. On the men’s side, you can expect to see Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, and Novak Djokovic competing, and the top women’s competitors include Amanda Anisimova, Miira Andreeva, Aryna Sabalenka, and Coco Gauff.

The tournament's first round begins Monday, May 4, and will run through Sunday, May 17. You can catch every Italian Open match on the Tennis Channel. Here's everything you need to know about how to watch the 2026 Italian Open, including streaming information, live broadcast schedule, and more.

How to watch the 2026 Italian Open tennis tournament:

Dates: May 4-17, 2026

Location: Foro Italico, Rome, Italy

Channel: Tennis Channel

Streaming:Fubo, DirecTV, and more 

When is the 2026 Italian Open? 

The Internazionali BNL d’Italia runs from May 4-17, 2026. 

What channel is the Italian Open on?

The 2026 Italian Open will be be broadcast on the Tennis Channel.

Where to stream the 2026 Italian Open:

The Tennis Channel is available to stream on platforms like Fubo and DirecTV.

2026 Internazionali Italian Open Broadcast Schedule

All times Eastern. All listings below will be on the Tennis Channel and the Tennis Channel app unless otherwise noted.

Monday, May 4

• 5 a.m.: WTA First Round

Tuesday, May 5

• 6:00 a.m.: WTA First Round

• 1 p.m.: Tennis Channel Live

Wednesday, May 6

• 5 a.m.: ATP/WTA First Round

• 6 a.m.: ATP/WTA First Round

• 5 p.m.: Tennis Channel Live

Thursday, May 7

• 5 a.m.: ATP First Round/WTA Second Round

• 6 a.m.: ATP First Round/WTA Second Round

• 5 p.m.: Tennis Channel Live

Friday, May 8

• 5 a.m.: ATP/WTA Second Round

• 6 a.m.: ATP/WTA Second Round

• 5 p.m.: Tennis Channel Live

Saturday, May 9

• 5 a.m.: ATP Second/WTA Third Round

• 6 a.m.: ATP Second/WTA Third Round

• 5 p.m.: Tennis Channel Live

Sunday, May 10

• 5 a.m.: ATP/WTA Third Round

• 6 a.m.: ATP/WTA Third Round

• 5 p.m.: Tennis Channel Live

Monday, May 11

• 5 a.m.: ATP Third Round/WTA Round of 16

• 6 a.m.: ATP/WTA Round of 16

More ways to watch the 2026 Internazionali BNL d’Italia

Tension appears to be building at Real Madrid, with a recent report from El Mundo pointing to growing unease in the dressing room and the spotlight is on Kylian Mbappe.

What has largely been a quiet period on the pitch has turned into a talking point off it. 

In recent weeks, discussions inside the club have intensified, particularly around Mbappe’s injury situation and how his recovery is being managed. 

While injuries are nothing new in football, the way this one has unfolded seems to have raised concerns among teammates.

Dressing room doubts begin to surface

Mbappe’s earlier knee issue had already triggered internal debates, even leading to adjustments within the medical setup earlier in the season. 

Now, his latest muscle problem, considered relatively minor, has reopened those conversations.

The situation has become more sensitive due to his decision to travel to Italy and Paris during recovery. 

Initially, when he made the trip accompanied by club physiotherapists, it was understood and accepted within the squad. However, the reaction now appears more mixed.

Some players are struggling to understand why such travel is necessary for a minor injury, especially during a crucial stage of the season. 

Raising eyebrows

There is added pressure because of the upcoming clash against Barcelona. 

Mbappe had indicated that he would do everything possible to be fit for that match, but his recent movements have left some teammates questioning whether that promise fit in with his actions.

Even when players are given personal time, decisions are often judged through the lens of team responsibility and in this case, his actions are becoming part of the wider conversation.

Manager Alvaro Arbeloa had allowed the squad a few days off following the draw against Real Betis, and during this time, players are free to manage their time as they choose.

However, there is an unspoken expectation, and when results are not going as planned, scrutiny naturally increases.

Ipswich Town will celebrate their return to the Premier League with a Bank Holiday Monday bus parade, it has been confirmed.

The Blues bounced straight back to the top flight at the first time of asking following a 3-0 win against QPR on Saturday in the final game of the Championship season.

And it has been confirmed there will be a bus parade leaving Portman Road stadium at 11:30 BST that is expected to arrive at Christchurch Park at 12:00, where a celebratory event will be held.

Ipswich Borough Council said it would be a chance for players, supporters and residents "to come together and celebrate".

The club said the route would follow Sir Alf Ramsey Way, Portman Road, Handford Road, Civic Drive, Crown Street, Soane Street, Bolton Lane and the bus would enter the park via the Westerfield Road.

Big screens will be placed in the park, which will show the bus en-route, with coverage beginning at 11:00.

• 'Good times are back' say Town fans after promotion
• Ed Sheeran 'super happy' at Ipswich Town's success
• I ran the London Marathon 45 times but now it is time to rest

Those with access requirements will be able to use a designated viewing area in front of one of the screens, the club said.

Manager Kieran McKenna and players would address supporters. The celebrations were expected to conclude by 13:00.

The route is the same one taken for the parade that followed promotion to the Premier League in May 2024.

That day saw the jubilant players downing beers as they were joined on a double-decker bus by Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley.

Overjoyed fans packed pavements and followed the bus as it made its way slowly through the town.

A council statement said: "We are thrilled to be hosting a parade on Monday 4th May through the town followed by a celebration event in Christchurch Park to mark Ipswich Town Football Club's promotion to the Premier League, and to give fans the chance to come together and celebrate.

"We look forward to welcoming players, supporters, and residents for a fantastic community celebration."

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• Are Ipswich better equipped for Premier League this time?
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The Atlanta Falcons have taken a cautious approach this offseason, which was essentially their only option due to a lack of salary cap space and draft capital. While the Falcons added six players in the 2026 NFL Draft, they won't be paying out a ton of money since their highest pick was No. 48 overall.

In terms of free agency spending, the team made several depth additions. The Falcons signed over a dozen players, targeting several veterans with starting experience while keeping their spending under control. Even quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is only getting the veteran minimum this season.

Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts signed his franchise tag, which takes up $15,045,000 this season. Wide receiver Jahan Dotson received the most money of the team's free agent class, but according to Over The Cap, he will only cost around $5 million against the cap in 2026.

So, how much cap space will the Falcons have after signing their 2026 NFL Draft class?

Falcons salary cap space: $19,117,655

• Effective cap space: $17,348,275

The Falcons have a little over $17 million in effective cap space, which is the amount after signing at least 51 players and their draft class to the roster. The team isn't exactly flush with cash, but there's enough money to sign a free agent or two.

Falcons dead money total: $43,860,329

• Kirk Cousins: $22,500,000
• Darnell Mooney: $11,000,000
• Kaleb McGary: $3,000,000
• David Onyemata: $2,425,000
• Ruke Orhorhoro: $2,015,864
• Younghoe Koo: $1,250,000
• Morgan Fox: $750,000
• KhaDarel Hodge: $625,000

The Falcons are paying over $43 million to eight different players. Trading defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro added over $2 million in dead money, but nobody is taking up more than Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins ($22.5 million). Former Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney is second on the list with $11 million in dead money followed by right tackle Kaleb McGary ($3 million).

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons salary cap: Post-draft cap numbers, dead money

Texas A&M coach Mike Elko and his staff have veered their complete focus to the 2027 recruiting class, already landing 12 commitments, now including five-star offensive lineman Kennedy Brown, who announced his commitment last Sunday afternoon.

Right now, most of the news has surrounded the Aggies' recent prediction to land five-star tackle Mark Matthews, who recently visited with the A&M coaching staff this week, which was deemed "extremely successful" based on AggieYell insider Jaxson Callaway's reporting.

However, Miami is still attempting to keep Matthews in Florida, but right now, all the momentum is with the Aggies. Around the rest of the 2027 class, including four-star linebacker Kaden Henderson, who recently spoke highly about the coaching staff's ability to develop after sending a record ten players to the 2026 NFL Draft.

According to Callaway's recent update, among the eight 2027 prospects mentioned, Texas A&M is in a "strong position" to land six of the prospects named, including five-star cornerback Josh Dobson, after fellow five-star CB John Meredith received a prediction to land with the Texas Longhorns, while the Aggies are still in the running coming down his official visit next month.

Among the six prospects who Callaway believes will end up committing to Texas A&M in the coming months, running back Landen Williams-Callis is not a "lock" by any means, but after receiving an early prediction to land in College Station, the blue-chip back still looks like the Aggies' next RB commit.

Lastly, after landing four-star wide receiver Jaden Upton, the Aggies are looking to lock down incoming IMG Academy senior and five-star prospect Eric McFarland, who will take his official visit to College Station later next month, while new OC and former WR coach Holmon Wiggins has played a significant role in his recruitment.

After landing Kennedy Brown, if the Aggies can secure Mark Matthews' commitment, five-star IOL Albert Simien is another name to watch as a potential favorite to choose A&M.

NEW: Latest on a number of the Aggies’ top targets on the recruiting trail

Texas A&M trending for a five-star cornerback, a number of offensive lineman, and much more ⬇️

(On3+: https://t.co/DEv8Q7XFH5)

— Jaxson Callaway (AT) (@AggiesToday) May 2, 2026

Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.

This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M is in 'strong position' to land six more 2027 prospects

Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman Peter Woods spoke with reporters at Saturday's press conference during this weekend's rookie minicamp. He reflected on his rookie camp experience and shares his appreciation for the franchise's winning culture.

"It was great. I think the biggest part was just being able to be coached by (Defensive Line) Coach (Joe) Cullen for the first time," said Woods, "Just some of the relationships through the coaching world that I've had and heard about his coaching style and stuff like that, so I feel like we're going to have a great time together. It's going to be fun."

The Chiefs acquired the No. 29 pick to select Woods from the Los Angeles Rams at the start of the offseason in the blockbuster trade that involved cornerback Trent McDuffie. He was a Second-team Associated Press All-American in 2025, starting 12 games, finishing with 30 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks.

"I don't think there was much that I didn't know because the Chiefs do a lot of winning." said Woods, "I'd say that is probably what I learned too, that the Chiefs do a lot of winning and what went into it and I'm starting to see a little bit of that now, just how the practice goes and how the coaches coach and just the flow of everything. They've earned it at every corner, and we're looking to do that again."

The former Clemson standout's best season was in 2024, when he finished with 28 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, and a forced fumble, earning Honorable Mention All-ACC honors. He played 5 snaps as a fullback in the jumbo package.

This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs DL Peter Woods appreciates Kansas City's winning culture

Former Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Russell Wilson's days in the NFL seem to be numbered.

Even though he just visited with the New York Jets, sources told The Athletic the Badgers alumn is in line to replace Matt Ryan on The NFL Today.

The weekly pregame show, airing nationwide on CBS, has a void to fill after Ryan became the Atlanta Falcons' president of football.

CBS declined comment, but Andrew Marchand confirmed there have been "lengthy talks" on Wilson ending his playing career and transitioning to television.

Wilson is far from the first professional athlete to go from playing to a broadcasting role, and he certainly won't be the last. For reference, fellow Badger alumn J.J. Watt now calls games for the same network.

The 37-year-old was a third-round draft pick by the Seattle Seahawks back in 2012. He came to Wisconsin for his senior season, where he threw for 3,174 yards and finished with 39 total touchdowns with just four interceptions.

Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion.

This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: CBS eyes former Wisconsin QB Russell Wilson as Matt Ryan's replacement

Setting one world record is an achievement most people would be thrilled with. For Matthew Akpan, securing his first was the start of an "annual tradition" - breaking seven records in six years.

According to the 37-year-old from Leeds, racking up Guinness World Records is not just about earning plaudits, but a way to show "no matter what label or what condition you have, you can be measured to anyone else in the world".

In 2013, Akpan was diagnosed with autism, with speech and language learning difficulties having been identified while he was at primary school.

He first found a love of running during his school years - although it was not until adulthood that he got serious.

After finding Parkrun and joining a running club, he started to "push" himself, he says.

"My life became structured around the running and that's where it was invaluable.

"Without that structure, I don't know if I would have achieved what I had done.

"If the running needs are sorted, then other things are not less important, but a bit easier to manage."

In 2021, Akpan combined his passion for the sport with his other love - WWE wrestling - to set his first world record completing a marathon dressed as John Cena, the wrestler-turned-Hollywood actor.

The challenge, finished in two hours, 56 minutes and 48 seconds, was in memory of his father, who died earlier the same year of kidney failure.

"We were very close and we always watched WWE wrestling together," Akpan explains.

"I think my dad would be laughing from the grave that I'd done something like that for him. So I felt like it was a perfect tribute."

'Running kept me on the right path'

Inspired by people's reaction to his achievement, Akpan started using the sporting stunts as a way to raise awareness of autism and other disabilities, as well as funds for charity.

"I thought it was going to be one and done, but it's become an annual tradition now," he says.

His most recent record came last Sunday at the London Marathon, where he set a new time for the fastest man with an intellectual impairment at the event, at 3 hours, 19 minutes and 16 seconds.

Although it was his "slowest marathon time ever" due to the heat, he says, it had been a good experience - although he did encounter new challenges.

"I found the run more difficult because it was like there was a lot of hustle and bustle, weaving in and out of people," he says.

"Any sort of little feeling - and that may be something to do with being autistic - but anything that puts you off unintentionally can be very disrupting."

He was also among the record 59,830 finishers at this year's London event.

Other feats include fastest half marathon dressed as a professional wrestler, gained in Leeds in 2022, and fastest man with an intellectual impairment at a 2025 half-marathon in Newcastle.

He put his wrestling knowledge to further good use, naming the most wrestlers under a minute by theme tune alone - twice - but this niche record has since been broken.

When he is not busy setting records, Akpan works as a teaching assistant at a school for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

His job allows him to share his story as a way to inspire young people to find their hobby or interest "that could push you into the next level", he says.

For him, it was putting on a pair of trainers and getting the miles in his legs.

"Running was always there, it never discriminated against you, it never worked against you," he says.

"It was always about you and seeing how much you could do really and get better.

"It just helped me continue on the path that I knew was right for me."

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.

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The Denver Broncos saw tight ends Eli Stowers (No. 54), Nate Boerkircher (No. 56), Marlin Klein (No. 59) and Max Klare (No. 61) all go off the board before they were scheduled to pick at No. 62 overall in the second round of the NFL draft last month.

Had there not been somewhat of a run on the position, Denver might have exited the second round with a new pass-catcher for quarterback Bo Nix. Instead, the Broncos decided to trade down into the third round.

"Denver explored taking a tight end somewhat early, but the board didn't fall that way," ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported last week. "The Broncos would have considered Vanderbilt's Eli Stowers if he made it to No. 62 (he went eight picks earlier)."

Stowers was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles at pick No. 54 (and somebody at his draft party was wearing a Broncos hat). Alas, it wasn't meant to be for Stowers and Denver.

The Broncos did end up landing NC State tight end Justin Joly in the fifth round. "The Broncos really like his tape from 2024, when he played at a lighter weight," Fowler wrote for ESPN.

Some draft pundits had Joly graded as a fourth-round pick, so he could end up being a steal for Denver. After missing out on the top-ranked tight ends, the Broncos were still able to address the position with a high-upside prospect, so it may have worked out well in the end.

Social: Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X! Did you know: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.

This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: NFL: Broncos would have considered Eli Stowers in NFL draft

Alex Marquez says he still needs to understand if he has made a genuine breakthrough after bouncing back from a tough start to the 2026 MotoGP season to win the Spanish Grand Prix.

Having finished runner-up in the standings last year and received a factory-spec bike for 2026, the expectations were high for the younger Marquez this season.

But the Gresini rider struggled for performance at the beginning amid a wider dip within the Ducati fold, scoring a best Sunday result of seventh across the opening three flyaway races.

He was so unsure about his prospects that even a return to Jerez, the track where he scored his maiden MotoGP win last year, did little to lift his expectations.

But the Spaniard went on to dominate his home grand prix on Sunday, grabbing the lead on the second lap en route to a monumental two-second victory. 

The result ended Marco Bezzecchi’s five-race winning streak in MotoGP, putting Ducati back at the front for the first time since last October’s Malaysian GP. He would have likely claimed a double win at Jerez had there not been a sudden rain shower when he was leading the sprint.

Marquez’s comeback win was down to a combination of factors, including his natural affinity with Jerez. But he also benefited from an upgraded Ducati package and a change in mentality that allowed him to ride around the bike’s problems.

However, he remains adamant its too early to draw firm conclusions about his form. The post-race test at Jerez, where he and other Ducati riders tested a new aero package, among other things, offered only some answers about the sudden upturn in form.

“We suffered a lot in the first three rounds this year, and then we are here and suddenly we are really, really fast and we are really flowing,” he said.

“Le Mans, Montmelo and Mugello will be important to understand if this step that we did here is real or it's just one weekend.

“I think we were [performing] in a really good way [at Jerez]. I think that in many ways we still need to improve, and it's what we focused on in this test, trying different aero packets and trying different things on the bike.

“Some are positive, some are negative. It's difficult to make conclusions on the aerodynamic side just at one track, because Jerez is a really good track to test, but maybe we need a little bit more fast corners. 

“But some things are positive, and now we'll have a lot of work at home on Ducati and also on Gresini to analyse the things.”

Alex Marquez, Gresini Racing

Despite having ruled out a victory in the build-up to the Spanish GP, Marquez insisted he was always certain that he would be able to return to the front.

“We tried it and I said already in Austin that, ‘OK, we are suffering but our time will come.’ 

“I think we keep working in a really good way, just trying to not panic and just trying to analyse the things. We started with last year's bike set-up and just tried to do other things, and then suddenly we were really, really fast again.

“So we work in a really good way and we tried a few things that were working.”

There has been a stark contrast between the performance of Ducati’s factory team and its satellite squads this year. While both Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia have largely struggled for results, VR46 rider Fabio di Giannantonio led the marque’s charge in the opening races before Alex Marquez took over the baton in Jerez.

With MotoGP visiting three different tracks in May, Alex believes the coming races will offer a better gauge of the pecking order.

 “I don't know the work that they are doing in the official team,” he said. “I think they are working super well and they know everything that we did. 

“For us also, it will be a really good test in the next two or three rounds to see if we can keep up this performance. Le Mans is a really different track.”

Should there be a tear-off rule following Marco Bezzecchi's Jerez incident?

How MotoGP’s energy drink landscape could shift 

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

Man Utd and Liverpool renew rivalries in the Premier League this Sunday, with both sides looking to secure Champions League qualification at Old Trafford. 

It’s been a weird and winding season for both teams, but they have managed to recover from setbacks to put themselves third and fourth respectively in the table, with just three points separating them.

With so much changing at the two clubs, we thought it would be an interesting experiment to see which players would make a combined XI. Only players who are fit and available to play are up for consideration.

Man Utd vs Liverpool Combined XI:

GK: Senne Lammens – Man Utd

We’re making a big call right up top. Obviously, Alisson Becker has been one of, if not the best goalkeeper in the Premier League over the past decade. He has been exceptional between the sticks for Liverpool and continues to be when he’s fit.

The problem is, that is becoming rarer and rarer for the 33-year-old, who now spends a chunk of every season on the treatment table. He won’t even be available for this weekend. His understudy, Giorgi Mamardashvili, has been less than convincing when called upon and is also currently injured.

Senne Lammens, meanwhile, has been hugely impressive since joining United in the summer. Since his debut, only three teams have conceded fewer goals than the Red Devils (35) and he is yet to make an error leading to a goal. It looks like they have finally found a reliable shot stopper.

Read – Golazo Merchants: A man of flawless technique, David Beckham

RB: Diogo Dalot – Man Utd

Trent Alexander-Arnold had this position locked down for the longest time, but now that he’s at Real Madrid, it’s up to Diogo Dalot to fill the void. The Portugal international has been very dependable for United this term, playing on both the right and left as a full-back and wing-back.

CB: Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool

It hasn’t been a vintage campaign from Virgil van Dijk, but then again that could be said for many of Liverpool’s stars. He remains one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League and indeed the world.

CB: Harry Maguire – Man Utd

Injury has limited Harry Maguire to just 15 Premier League starts this season, but he has been sorely missed during those period when he’s been sidelined. His aerial presence in both boxes is massively important to United and could play a role in the outcome of this weekend’s encounter.

Read – Man Utd to prioritise Premier League-based transfer targets

LB: Patrick Dorgu – Man Utd

This was the most awkward decision in the entire team; plenty of choices but none of them overly convincing. Milos Kerkez has been pretty poor, Andy Robertson has shown his age this season, and Luke Shaw has been solid without being spectacular.

Patrick Dorgu was excellent from late December into January, but he has missed the last three months through injury. He is available for selection, though, after being named on the bench against Brentford on Monday night.

The Denmark international is, in this writer’s opinion, the most exciting option at full-back and would offer this mash-up more attacking threat down the left. It appeared as if he was going to be a key part of Carrick’s setup when he first took charge, causing havoc as a wing-back. United have looked more primitive on offence in his absence, which is a big compliment to his game.

CM: Alexis Mac Allister – Liverpool

I don’t know if there’s any one thing that Alexis Mac Allister does at an elite level, but he’s very good at just about everything. He’s good in possession, he create chances, he scores the odd goal, and while his defensive game is not the greatest, he’s far from a liability in midfield.

CM: Casemiro – Man Utd

Rewind back to September 2024, the last time United hosted Liverpool at Old Trafford. They were totally demolished by Slot’s rampant Reds and Casemiro was the main culprit in a dreadful first half. He received a paltry 1/10 in our player ratings for that game. “He’s cooked” was this writer’s withering assessment.

Fast forward to the present day and there has been a complete turnaround in the Brazilian’s fortunes to the point where the fans are begging not to leave this summer. He’s been a rock in midfield and one of their biggest attacking threats, scoring nine league goals (eight of which have been headers).

Just look at Casemiro’s stats radar from Fotmob, highlighting his strengths when compared to other Premier League midfielders:

His Renaissance has been a joy to behold.

RW: Dominik Szoboszlai – Liverpool

We could have placed Dominik Szoboszlai in any number of positions in this lineup, he has been that versatile for Liverpool this season. Any time Slot has needed a solution, the Hungarian has been there to plug the gap and done so with gusto.

With Mo Salah out injured, Szoboszlai will possibly be called upon to do so again on the right wing. Bryan Mbeumo misses out after seeing his form drop off precipitously over the past two months.

Read – Slot eyes Champions League confirmation at Man United

CAM: Bruno Fernandes – Man Utd

The easiest decision in our Combined XI. Bruno Fernandes is simply the best no.10 in the Premier League right now, which makes one wonder why in the hell Ruben Amorim saw fit to play him in a deeper role.

With eight goals and 19 assists in the Premier League, the playmaker is close to matching his career best tally for goal involvements in a single season (30) and smash the record for most assists (20). He has also created 114 chances this season – 53 more than the nearest player.

LW: Florian Wirtz – Liverpool

Fernandes’ presence means that Florian Wirtz has to be shunted out to the left wing, where he has operated a few times for Liverpool this year. The German has not yet hit the heights expected when he made his big money move from Leverkusen last summer, but he has not been nearly as poor as some bad faith actors try to claim.

CF: Benjamin Sesko – Man Utd

Now this is a turn up for the books. If this game happened a month ago, Hugo Ekitike would have been a shoo-in, but a devastating injury has ruled him out for many months. Alexander Isak has missed most of the last five months with a broken leg and he wasn’t playing all that well before then anyway.

That leaves Benjamin Sesko as our starting striker. After struggling for form in the first half of the season, scoring just twice, the Slovenian has excelled in 2026. He’s found the net nine times since January, scoring a number of crucial goals to help United climb into the top four.

Read – Power Rankings: Man Utd upward, top two collide

See Also – Salah ’emotional’ reflecting on Liverpool ‘connection’

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Rudy Gobert just revealed Victor Wembanyama's biggest edge originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

At some point in recent weeks, Victor Wembanyama called Rudy Gobert and asked him what kind of water filter he has in his house. And Gobert, who has thought about body optimization since long before it became fashionable in the NBA, had an immediate answer because this is apparently the kind of conversation Wembanyama initiates with his veteran contacts.

Gobert made the story public on Saturday ahead of the Minnesota Timberwolves' Western Conference Semifinals matchup against Wembanyama's San Antonio Spurs.

Wolves reporter Dane Moore asked Gobert what surprised him most about the 22-year-old, and Gobert went to the water filter question.

"A few weeks ago he asked me what kind of filter I had in my house for water. It just tells you how his mind is. I try to talk to the young guys here about the food they eat and stuff like that. But I don't get those type of questions." Gobert said.

Moore also wondered if Anthony Edwards has ever mentioned water filters. "Never. Not yet. I pray for that day," Gobert said.

Asked Rudy Gobert what surprised him about Victor Wembanyama when they were teammates during the Olympics.

"A few weeks ago he asked me what kind of filter I had in my house for water. It just tells you how his mind is. I try to talk to the young guys here about the food they… pic.twitter.com/FBzmD7x0kV

— Dane Moore (@DaneMooreNBA) May 2, 2026

Wembanyama led the Spurs to 62 wins this season while averaging 25 points and a league-high 3.1 blocks. Against Portland in the first round, he posted 21.0 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.0 blocks per game, shooting 53.8 percent from three.

He won Defensive Player of the Year with all 100 first-place votes. 

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Of the Jacksonville Jaguars 18 undrafted free agent signings, quarterback Joey Aguilar was one of the more highly-paid UDFAs across the NFL following the 2026 draft.

According to Spotrac, Aguilar earned $247,500 in guaranteed money. That guaranteed amount ranks 21st out of all UDFA signings, and isn't too far behind the highest mark of $310,000, set by Utah edge rusher Logan Fano, who signed with the Browns.

Could Joey Aguilar make a roster push with the Jaguars?

After spending a few years at Appalachian State, Aguilar made the jump to the SEC in 2025. Despite the elevated level of competition, Aguilar's completion rate increased significantly.

He also created more big plays through the air, while throwing 24 touchdowns to 10 interceptions. Following last year's draft, James Gladstone mentioned how impressed he was that Jalen McLeod made the jump in competition but remained productive.

Aguilar will be competing with Carter Bradley for the third quarterback spot on the depth chart behind Trevor Lawrence and Nick Mullens. Whether or not that position makes the 53-man roster remains to be seen.

Last season, Liam Coen rostered only two quarterbacks, with the third being on the practice squad. Aguilar's play this summer will have to convince Liam Coen to keep three this year.

Along with Aguilar, Colorado cornerback Preston Hodge received $67,500 in guaranteed money -- the second-most on the team.

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Where Jaguars Joey Aguilar ranks among highest-paid UDFAs

In Saturday’s Brotherhood Playoff Action, Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics were eliminated by the Philadelphia 76ers, 109-100. Tatum was listed as questionable earlier, but was ruled out due to stiffness in his left knee.

Philadelphia will go on to play the New York Knicks. You’ll recall that Tatum suffered his Achilles injury in last year’s playoffs against the Knicks, so he’ll miss the chance to close that circle.

On Sunday, Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter will lead the Orlando Magic into Game 7 against the Detroit Pistons. In the second game, RJ Barrett and the Toronto Raptors will take on Tyrese Proctor and the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 7 of that series. Brandon Ingram is listed as questionable with heel inflammation.

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Formula 1 returns after the enforced spring break with the Miami Grand Prix this weekend - and the second sprint race of the 2026 season.

Due to the cancellation of races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia because of the ongoing conflict in the Gulf, F1 was absent over April but, behind the scenes, teams were working hard to close the gap on Mercedes. In addition, F1 and the FIA agreed on a set of tweaks to the controversial 2026 regulations.

Kimi Antonelli won the last race in Japan after benefiting from a well-timed safety car. The Italian 19-year-old leads the world championship by nine points over Mercedes teammate George Russell, who was cut a frustrated figure at Suzuka in finishing fourth.

Reigning world champions McLaren found themselves back on the podium with Oscar Piastri’s second-place finish while Charles Leclerc came home third for Ferrari. After the last race, four-time F1 world champion Max Verstappen also revealed he was considering quitting the sport at the end of the season. Will the rule changes, to be first seen in Miami, make a difference?

Here’s everything you need to know about the Miami Grand Prix.

What is the starting grid for the Miami GP?

1. Kimi Antonelli

2. Max Verstappen

3. Charles Leclerc

4. Lando Norris

5. George Russell

6. Lewis Hamilton

7. Oscar Piastri

8. Franco Colapinto

9. Isack Hadjar

10. Pierre Gasly

11. Nico Hulkenberg

12. Liam Lawson

13. Ollie Bearman

14. Carlos Sainz

15. Esteban Ocon

16. Alex Albon

17. Arvid Lindblad

18. Fernando Alonso

19. Lance Stroll

20. Sergio Perez

21. Valtteri Bottas

22. Gabriel Bortoleto

When is the Miami Grand Prix?

Time BST

Sunday 3 May

• Race: 6pm

How can I watch it online and on TV?

The Miami Grand Prix will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom. Sky’s coverage of Sunday’s race starts at 4:30pm (BST).

Sky Sports subscribers can watch all the action in Miami on the Sky Go app. If you’re not a Sky customer, you can grab a NOWTV Day Pass here to watch without a subscription.

In the United States, every practice, qualifying and race session will be streamed on Apple TV this year. You can stream Apple TV for FREE, with Apple TV’s seven-day free trial.

If you’re travelling abroad and want to watch the Miami Grand Prix then you might need a VPN to unblock your streaming app. Our VPN roundup is here to help.

Driver standings ahead of Miami GP

1. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) - 72 points

2. George Russell (Mercedes) - 63 points

3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) - 49 points

4. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) - 41 points

5. Lando Norris (McLaren) - 25 points

6. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) -21 points

7. Ollie Bearman (Haas) - 17 points

8. Pierre Gasly (Alpine) - 15 points

9. Max Verstappen Red Bull) - 12 points

10. Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls) - 10 points

11. Arvid Lindblad (Racing Bulls) - 4 points

12. Isack Hadjar (Racing Bulls) - 4 points

13. Carlos Sainz (Williams) - 2 points

14. Gabriel Bortoleto (Audi) - 2 points

15. Franco Colapinto (Alpine) - 1 point

16. Esteban Ocon (Haas) - 1 point

17. Alex Albon (Williams) - 0 points

18. Sergio Perez (Cadillac) - 0 points

19. Nico Hulkenberg (Audi) - 0 points

20. Valtteri Bottas (Cadillac) - 0 points

21. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) - 0 points

22. Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) - 0 points

Constructor standings ahead of Miami GP

1. Mercedes - 135 points

2. Ferrari - 90 points

3. McLaren - 46 points

4. Haas - 18 points

5. Alpine - 16 points

6. Red Bull - 16 points

7. Racing Bulls - 14 points

8. Audi - 2 points

9. Williams - 2 points

10. Cadillac - 0 points

11. Aston Martin - 0 points

What is the 2026 race calendar?

ROUND 4 - MIAMI (sprint weekend)

Miami International Autodrome, Hard Rock Stadium - 1-3 May

ROUND 5 - CANADA (sprint weekend)

Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal - 22-24 May

ROUND 6 - MONACO

Circuit de Monaco - 5-7 June

ROUND 7 - SPAIN (Barcelona)

Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya - 12-14 June

ROUND 8 - AUSTRIA

Red Bull Ring, Spielberg - 26-28 June

ROUND 9 - GREAT BRITAIN (sprint weekend)

Silverstone Circuit - 3-5 July

ROUND 10 - BELGIUM

Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps - 17-19 July

ROUND 11 - HUNGARY

Hungaroring, Budapest - 24-26 July

ROUND 12 - NETHERLANDS (sprint weekend)

Circuit Zandvoort - 21-23 August

ROUND 13 - ITALY

Monza Circuit - 4-6 September

ROUND 14 - SPAIN (Madrid)

Circuito de Madring - 11-13 September

ROUND 15 - AZERBAIJAN

Baku City Circuit - 24-26 September (Saturday race)

ROUND 16 - SINGAPORE (sprint weekend)

Marina Bay Street Circuit - 9-11 October

ROUND 17 - UNITED STATES

Circuit of the Americas, Austin - 23-25 October

ROUND 18 - MEXICO

Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Mexico City - 30 October-1 November

ROUND 19 - BRAZIL

Interlagos Circuit, Sao Paulo - 6-8 November

ROUND 20 - LAS VEGAS

Las Vegas Street Circuit - 19-21 November

ROUND 21 - QATAR

Lusail International Circuit - 27-29 November

ROUND 22 - ABU DHABI

Yas Marina Circuit - 4-6 December

Roma’s future planning begins with understanding who will stay and who won’t.

Many players are out of contract, but with a month to go until the deadline, the club hasn’t yet decided who to keep: Paulo Dybala, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Zeki Celik.

For the latter, the situation could change in the coming weeks.

The Turk seemed closest to leaving, with Juventus and Inter ready to initiate talks to sign him on a free transfer. However, the full-back hasn’t closed a deal and is keeping his door open for the Roman club.

Celik, according to Il Corriere della Sera, is well aware of Gian Piero Gasperini’s high regard for him, and has promised the Grugliasco coach that he will wait until the very last moment for an offer from Roma.

At the same time, however, if the player wants to stay, he must lower his demands. It appears that the Turk’s request to the Roman club for a renewal was €4 million.

A high figure for the Giallorossi, but one that would be lower with the Growth Decree.

The club is therefore considering the player’s versatility: the former Lille player can act both as a wing-back and as a defensive midfielder, and the cost of finding a similar player would be higher than the renewal.

Roma will face Fiorentina tomorrow, May 4th, in their penultimate home game at the Olimpico.

Gian Piero Gasperini has just a few hours left to resolve any remaining doubts regarding the lineup, and today’s training session will serve to clarify any remaining issues.

To the Grugliasco coach’s delight, the infirmary is emptying.

Manu Koné returned to training with the group in recent training sessions and is ready to take to the field.

Given Neil El Aynaoui’s suspension, the coach is reportedly considering throwing the Frenchman into the mix from the start.

The attacking lineup remains a puzzle. Gasperini is eyeing Niccolò Pisilli alongside Matias Soulé, but the temptation to pair Paulo Dybala is growing in the background.

The only certainty is that No. 18 and Donyell Malen are guaranteed starting spots.

To see No. 21 starting, according to Il Corriere dello Sport, the coach will first need to determine how many minutes “La Joya” has available.

Gasperini will undoubtedly test the player’s fitness today, and will only make a last-minute decision on how much time he will give him.

How Kansas City's Peter Woods and Mansoor Delane plan to improve each other originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Kansas City Chiefs made two first-round picks on the defensive side in the 2026 NFL Draft, and somehow, both of them are already thinking about how to help the other one produce.

LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane went to Kansas City at sixth overall after the Chiefs traded up from No. 9 to land him, beating out the New Orleans Saints, who were reportedly lurking at that spot.

Kansas City turned around and picked Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods at No. 29. Two first-round picks on the same side of the ball, in the same draft, walking into the same building.

Already simpatico before camp starts

And according to Woods, they already have a system figured out. Asked about his friendship with Delane during the Chiefs' rookie minicamp, Woods kept his explanation compact: "I help him get interceptions and he helps me get sacks, we just keep it that simple."

#Chiefs rookie DT Peter Woods on his friendship with CB Mansoor Delane 🗣️

“I help him get interceptions and he helps me get sacks, we just keep it that simple” pic.twitter.com/L99jIJIK7Y

— SleeperChiefs (@SleeperChiefsKC) May 2, 2026

Kansas City addressed two real roster holes with these picks. After trading Trent McDuffie and letting Jaylen Watson walk in free agency, Delane walks into a CB1 role with the path largely clear in front of him.

Woods enters as an interior rusher playing alongside Chris Jones, one of the best at drawing double teams in the league, which should create single-coverage opportunities for the rookie from day one.

More news:

• Ravens reunite with Calais Campbell for what could be a final run
• Makai Lemon signs 4-year fully guaranteed Eagles contract

Malen’s Short Aston Villa Spell Ends Abruptly

Donyell Malen’s time at Aston Villa appears to be drawing to a close almost as quickly as it began. Signed with promise and pedigree, the Dutch forward has spent just a single season at Villa Park before being ushered towards the exit door. According to the original source, Express & Star, Malen is now “set for a £25m move” after impressing during his loan spell in Italy.

The 27-year-old arrived from Borussia Dortmund with a reputation as a dynamic attacking threat, capable of stretching defences and delivering goals in key moments. Under Unai Emery, he showed glimpses of that quality, contributing seven goals across competitions. Yet, despite that return, Villa’s long-term plans have clearly shifted, leading to his loan move to Roma.

That decision now looks increasingly decisive rather than temporary.

Photo IMAGO

Roma Loan Spell Transforms Transfer Outlook

Malen’s loan to Roma has proven to be a turning point. What began as an opportunity to regain rhythm has evolved into a full-scale revival of his attacking credentials. As noted in the original report, he has delivered “12 goals across Serie A and the Europa League,” playing a central role in Roma’s resurgence.

This output is not just about numbers. Malen has provided tactical flexibility, operating across the front line with pace and directness. His movement off the ball and ability to exploit space have aligned well with Roma’s attacking system, making him a natural fit in the squad.

Crucially, his performances have coincided with Roma securing a return to the Champions League, adding weight to his contributions. Players who influence outcomes at that level tend to command decisive action in the transfer market.

£25m Clause Activated by Roma

The financial aspect of the deal now appears straightforward. Roma inserted a €25 million purchase option into the loan agreement, and reports suggest that clause has been triggered. The original source states that “it is almost certain he will stay at the club,” with Roma moving quickly to secure his services permanently.

From Aston Villa’s perspective, the deal represents a clean resolution. While Malen showed flashes of quality in the Premier League, he never fully cemented a starting role. Offloading him at a figure close to £25m ensures a return that aligns with his market value while freeing up space for Emery to reshape his forward line.

For Roma, the decision reflects both performance data and strategic planning. Investing in a player already integrated into the system reduces risk, particularly ahead of a Champions League campaign.

Strategic Implications for Aston Villa and Roma

This transfer highlights contrasting trajectories for both clubs. Aston Villa are refining their squad with precision, prioritising players who fit a specific tactical blueprint. Malen’s departure suggests a move towards a more tailored attacking unit, potentially favouring different profiles in wide and central areas.

Roma, on the other hand, are capitalising on proven chemistry. Rather than gambling on new arrivals, they are doubling down on a player who has already delivered under pressure. Malen’s ability to perform in European competition makes him a valuable asset as they prepare for a demanding schedule.

The broader takeaway is clear. In modern football, adaptability and immediate impact often outweigh long-term speculation. Malen’s journey from Villa to Roma underscores how quickly fortunes can change when the right environment meets the right player.

For Malen himself, this move offers stability and momentum. After a brief and somewhat fragmented spell in England, he now has the opportunity to anchor his career in a system that maximises his strengths.

Midfield uncertainty drives recruitment focus

Liverpool’s midfield rebuild is once again under the microscope, with fresh speculation suggesting that Mamadou Sangare could emerge as a key target should change become necessary.

Questions surrounding Alexis Mac Allister have intensified over the course of the season. Once a metronomic presence, his influence has dipped, and that drop in output has coincided with a broader inconsistency in Liverpool’s engine room. While Dominik Szoboszlai has carried much of the creative burden, the balance has felt uneven.

With Arne Slot tasked with refining a side that recently set the standard domestically, the need for renewed energy and tactical clarity in midfield is becoming increasingly apparent. Recruitment, therefore, is not simply reactive but strategic.

Sangare profile fits Liverpool identity

Reports sourced from journalist Bence Bocsak, originally shared via the Anfield Watch Podcast, highlight Sangare as a compelling option. His profile aligns closely with Liverpool’s historical midfield blueprint, built on intensity, vertical passing, and relentless pressing.

Bocsak described the player in clear terms:

“[Mamadou] Sangare is a high intensity player. He is very good at making quick decisions on the ball, he [does] quick passes, he’s a little bit similar to [Alexis] Mac Allister but on top of that he’s got that intensity, he’s got that running ability that Liverpool have missed.

For me, I think he’d be a really nice fit as well, and again, considering RC Lens paid €8 million or something like that for Sangare, they’re not going to want to demand a massive price tag.

I think there’s talk of €40 million to €50 million which translates to around £35 million and that is a lot more of a reasonable fee.”

That assessment captures the essence of Sangare’s appeal. He is not merely a stylistic replacement but a potential upgrade in physical output, capable of restoring the tempo that has defined Liverpool at their best.

Performance data highlights rapid development

Sangare’s rise has been swift. Having joined RC Lens for a modest fee, he has quickly established himself as a central figure. Operating primarily as a central midfielder, he has contributed seven goals across all competitions this season, a notable return for a player whose primary function lies in transition and control.

At 23, his trajectory suggests further growth. His decision-making under pressure, combined with an ability to carry the ball through congested areas, reflects a maturity beyond his years. In analytical terms, he offers high progressive passing metrics alongside strong defensive recoveries, a combination Liverpool have intermittently lacked.

Transfer value and long term strategy

The reported valuation of around £35 million positions Sangare in a favourable bracket. In a market where established Premier League midfielders command inflated fees, this represents a calculated investment rather than a gamble.

Liverpool’s recruitment model has increasingly leaned towards identifying players before they reach peak valuation. Sangare fits that mould. He is entering his prime developmental phase, carries resale value, and crucially, aligns with the club’s tactical demands.

Whether a move materialises will depend on several variables, including Mac Allister’s future and Liverpool’s broader squad planning. Yet the logic behind the interest is sound. Sangare offers dynamism, technical assurance, and the capacity to elevate the collective intensity.

In a side that thrives on rhythm and relentless movement, those attributes are not luxuries. They are essentials.

Manchester United’s pursuit of a new left-back has seen them linked with a surprise move for Arsenal prodigy Myles Lewis-Skelly. The Red Devils are laying down succession plans for Luke Shaw, who has been in impressive form this season.

The Englishman has started every Premier League game this campaign, but he will turn 31 this summer. His contract is due to expire at the end of next season, and he is yet to sign a new deal.

While a renewal cannot be entirely ruled out, the Red Devils could be tempted to solidify the position with fresh blood, given Shaw’s history of fitness issues. Tyrell Malacia, meanwhile, is a forgotten man at Old Trafford and is expected to leave this summer.

Patrick Dorgu is an option for the job, but he has been excellent in a more attacking role under Carrick, which hints at the possibility of a position change. Lewis-Skelly’s future at the Emirates has been subject to speculation of late, and recent reports have stated that United are already planning to prise him away.

Versatile modern full-back

Lewis-Skelly broke into the senior side last season, scoring one goal and setting up three more in 42 games across all competitions. The 19 year old played mostly at left-back, although he is capable enough to operate in midfield as well.

This season, however, the Englishman has struggled for game time, with Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori ahead of him in Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s pecking order. Lewis-Skelly has registered four assists in 31 appearances, 15 of which have been starts.

Myles Lewis-Skelly Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

The player is understandably frustrated by the situation, and his future remains up in the air. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person suggests that Arsenal are willing to offload Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri for a combined fee of £100 million this summer.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta started the English full-back in midfield against Fulham on Saturday, and it turned out to be a masterstroke. Lewis-Skelly was excellent in the position, helping secure a 3-0 win at the Emirates and further highlighting his immense potential.

Arteta admits tough Lewis-Skelly stance

Speaking after the win, Arteta acknowledged that he had been tough on Lewis-Skelly. He said: “He fully deserves it. I’ve been tough on him. He had a spectacular season last year when he jumped into the first team.”

“He had some difficult moments after that, but he stayed very humble, very focused, very aligned with what we wanted to do, and I knew he was ready. He’s been showing in training every day the opportunities that he had to play. He’s done it and today he really stepped up and I thought he had an incredible performance.”

When asked why he had not used the Englishman in midfield, the Spanish manager added: “Because probably I don’t have a clue and maybe I should have done it earlier, I don’t know. But I have to do things when I believe that the player is ready, the team is ready and the opponent is the right one to play with him in that position.”

“We’ve done it today, it’s the first time. It was a big risk because I knew what was going to happen, if he wasn’t this great, we would have lost the game. How do you play a kid at this age, in this scenario, in a position that he hasn’t played all season? I knew that but I had the feeling that it was the right game for him.”

Final Thoughts

Lewis-Skelly’s versatility makes him an enticing option for United, as both the midfield and the left-back positions require more cover this summer. The Englishman matches the Red Devils’ youth-centric transfer policy, and could also be a fine long-term replacement for Shaw.

Featured image Clive Mason via Getty Images

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Ryan Friedkin arrived in the capital on Friday to prepare for the future of Roma.

In these situations, the Texans are accustomed to working behind the scenes, and just as the first meeting with Gian Piero Gasperini took place in Florence a year ago, the hunt for a sporting director will continue with the same modus operandi today.

The aim is to shape the future of the Roman club away from prying eyes.

Dan’s son is moving between Rome, Milan, and Florence, knowing that the search for a replacement for Frederic Massara, who he knows will soon be dismissed, is a priority. While Ryan is touring Italy, a key figure remains in Trigoria.

His brother Corbin, Corbin, is reportedly the Friedkins’ goal of increasingly involving Roma. Ryan will soon meet with Gasperini to discuss some issues.

Regarding the capital gains issue, the situation is clear: the Americans will attempt to negotiate with UEFA to ease the financial demands, seeking to exit the settlement agreement with a fine, but, barring any glaring exceptions, the sale of a key player will be necessary.

Then the Grugliasco-born coach made it clear that he wants the “senators”—Gianluca Mancini, Bryan Cristante, and Lorenzo Pellegrini—to be renewed, as well as Paulo Dybala. After that, it will be time to dive into the market.

The Friedkins have made one thing clear: regardless of the team’s revenue and ranking, there will be a significant budget for the next sporting director.