Diego Simeone reportedly came close to clashing with Andrea Berta during Arsenal’s match against Atletico Madrid at the Emirates after becoming frustrated with appeals from the Arsenal sporting director for the referee to bring the game to an end.

The contest proved to be an intense and closely fought encounter, with Arsenal holding on to a narrow advantage secured by Bukayo Saka’s decisive goal. The victory demonstrated the resilience and composure that Mikel Arteta’s side has developed during an impressive run of form over recent months.

Arsenal have been widely tipped as strong contenders for both the Premier League and Champions League titles this season. However, Atletico Madrid entered the match with considerable confidence after eliminating Barcelona from the competition in the quarter finals, leading many observers to believe they had the quality to trouble the Gunners.

Simeone Left Frustrated

Despite Arsenal eventually securing the win, further details have now emerged regarding the reasons behind Simeone’s visible frustration throughout the match. The Atletico Madrid manager was reportedly angered by several incidents surrounding the fixture, which added to the tension on the touchline during the closing stages.

The Arsenal supporters were said to have disturbed Atletico’s preparations by making noise outside the team hotel on the night before the game, something that allegedly irritated Simeone and members of his coaching staff. The atmosphere around the fixture had already become highly charged before kick-off because of the significance of the match for both clubs.

Concerns Over Match Officials

As detailed by AS, Simeone was also reportedly unhappy with the choice of match officials for the encounter. Concerns were raised within the Atletico camp over the appointment of Daniel Siebert as referee and Bastian Dankert on VAR because of previous experiences involving the officials.

Those frustrations continued to build before Arsenal eventually scored the goal that secured victory in the fixture. Saka’s strike ultimately proved decisive and reinforced Arsenal’s growing reputation as a side capable of delivering under pressure in crucial matches across both domestic and European competitions.

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Chelsea could see a significant improvement to their team on Saturday, with two start players capable of starting the game.

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Calum McFarlane is taking his press conference ahead of Chelsea’s game against Liverpool on Saturday, and the priority today was injury updates on two potential starters.

Levi Colwill made his return this week for the first time since last season after recovering from an ACL injury. Meanwhile Reece James has missed more than a month with a hamstring problem.

According to McFarlane, both are close:

“We’ve got a few lads returning,” the interim coach said.

“Levi and Reece have trained a full week. It’s looking promising. We’ve still got another session – they both trained fully today.”

James and Colwill could both start against Liverpool

It’s really touch and go on both of them it seems. Colwill got 45 minutes on Monday, which on the one hand brings up his match fitness but on the other probably limits the number of minutes he can play.

James didn’t get on the pitch, but has been close enough to a start now for long enough that we’d imagine he’s ready.

At this stage, our best guess is that they both start and aim for 60 minutes.

In other news…

After a game on Monday, it’s a short week to the match on Saturday – and McFarlane didn’t give out any days off this week.

Chelsea have players on loan they’re not sure what to do with – chief among them a South American wonderkid.

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Just Women’s Sports, a media company dedicated solely to women’s sports content has just announced an exclusive emerging media partnership with the WNBA ahead of the league’s 30th season.

As part of the partnership, Just Women’s Sports will distribute official WNBA game highlights across its digital and social platforms, support league marketing efforts, and work with the WNBA to develop sponsored content opportunities throughout the season, with a marquee presence at the 2026 All-Star Game.

This is a landmark partnership for the company, as they have been working directly with the NWSL, and will now be operating in and assisting the two most followed and watched women’s professional sports leagues in the United States.

Just Women’s Sports founder and CEO Haley Rosen said about the deal, “I think this is a huge opportunity on both fronts. We have had a great relationship with the WNBA for a long time and we are really excited to formalize this and put our two brands together.”

She further explained, “Obviously the WNBA has just exploded into a total juggernaut, but also our belief is that this is just the beginning of the ride. I think the ability to team up, absolutely pours gas on the fire, this is huge for both sides.”

She continued, “For them, we touch a 115 million monthly, I think we have built a home base for women’s sports fans. I think it is a partnership that makes a ton of sense.”

Just Women’s Sports Audience Reach and Business Growth

Just Women’s Sports is a force in the media space, as it has established and built a core audience in just six years since its launch in 2020. To date, the company has 4.5+ million cross-platform followers and a month reach across their digital and social platforms of 115 million.

Their revenue has more than doubled year-over-year and they have been able to secure partnerships with Fortune 500 companies including Amazon Prime, Ally, Microsoft, Google, Planet Fitness, Under Armour, Culver’ and Intuit Turbo Tax. These companies are hungry for the Just Women’s Sports audience that is young and digital first.

Their investor portfolio includes several venture capitalist funds, but also athlete investors in Kevin Durant, Billie Jean King, Allyson Felix, Abby Wambach, Hilary Knight and Sam Kerr.

Just Women’s Sports Investment in Women’s Basketball

Just Women’s Sports has already highly invested in women’s basketball, reflected by the recent launch of Court Vision, a weekly women’s basketball talk show hosted by WNBA legend Angel McCoughtry and veteran broadcaster Ros Gold-Onwude, as well as Between the Lines, a series hosted by basketball icon Lisa Leslie.

Rosen expressed the importance of having former players and women’s sports media veterans at the forefront of their digital series, talking and providing authentic storytelling about women’s sports and athletes. She said, “I think for a long time, it was difficult to follow women’s sports, get the basics, the news, the highlights, and see the standings. I think we take it for granted on the men’s side, but that simply did not exist on the women’s side for years.”

She continued, “That was the muscle we were bound and focused on for years. We feel like we have hit a point where that is bread and butter of what we do. We felt we were hitting the point where fans wanted us to go deeper. We felt it was really important to start building out trusted voices, this roster of authority about the leagues, and what is going on.”

Further, Rosen believes the job of Just Women’s Sports is to “onboard the next 10 million women’s sports fans” and “make it easy to be a fan, easy to consume the content, easy to engage and go deeper and have these conversations” around this space, like the WNBA.

Follow me for more sport business and women’s sports content and news on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

When I was 5,we moved to a house that sits on the right side of the 15th hole at Wildwood Green Golf Club, a semi-private course in Raleigh, N.C. Three years later, my parents went out one afternoon and left me with a babysitter. I convinced her to walk down to the pro shop, get a cart and drive me around to play a few holes. My parents tell lots of stories about how they’d be looking for me in the yard and realize I’d walked onto the course.

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My dad played in collegethen professionally for a little while. He was my coach for the first 10 years of my life and taught me the majority of what I know: the fundamentals, establishing routines. He taught me to work hard because just wanting to be good doesn’t make anyone special.

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My swing lacksthe aesthetic appealthat some other guys’ swings have. My move developed naturally without much video. I get made fun of for it. It’s flat, short, my hands work around my body, my wrist is bowed at the top, and the clubface is shut. But I don’t care what it looks like. It’s repeatable.

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TheWildwoodownersprioritizedjunior golf. There aren’t any munys in Raleigh, so Wildwood has taken pride in being an accessible course for everyone. There’s nothing but golf, so that helps keep the prices reasonable. Even though they do 55,000 rounds per year, they give juniors slots to play and pair them with good players. Great players have come out of there such as Grayson Murray, Doc Redman, Carter Jenkins, the list goes on and on. There are a lot of uneven lies, grainy areas, and intimidating shots. All day, it pushes you to make decisions.

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I played basketball, was president of the high school badminton club, and I was in the chess club. Chess is less about execution and more about planning. I find it very Zen and still play today. It allows me to turn my brain on and be competitive with zero risk of injury. I also played violin for 14 years. I don’t play anymore, but I was in an orchestra and a quartet. The violin was always very calming for me. The rhythm and the commitment to pursuing perfection, watching how tiny changes can make a big difference­—it really aligns with golf. My understanding of musical rhythm has flowed into my putting stroke.

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I arrived at the University of North Carolina full of irrational confidence. I was joining a team with a lot of talent, including Ben Griffin. I’d won some AJGA tournaments and thought I was ready to take college golf head-on. My first year, I had six top-20 finishes but didn’t qualify to play every match. It was a kick in the face.

Ryan Gerard with the winner's trophy after winning the 2025 Barracuda Championship

Lachlan Cunningham

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If things were going well, they would continue going well. If going poorly, they’d go even worse. My first qualifier, we played Hope Valley C.C. in Durham, and I shot 49 on the front from hitting it O.B. a hundred times. There wasn’t stability in what I was doing. It was a lot of rolling off straight vibes and seeing what would happen.

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My coaches worked with meon my attitude: staying positive, walking with confidence, doing everything with conviction. They allowed me to get frustrated—let out a curse under my breath or give the bag a little whack—but it could only last a moment. They wanted me to play with fire, not anger. It’s a fine line. Then the next season, I led the team in birdies.

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I studied economicsand geography.I wanted to turn pro but knew I’d stay four years because my parents really wanted me to get a degree. If you’re going to be successful in golf, learning how not to spend all your money is probably a good thing.

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I turned pro after graduation in 2022and won a U.S. Open qualifier. That got me a signing bonus from Titleist. I had some good finishes in Canada that year and played some Korn Ferry Monday qualifiers. I didn’t have much in terms of sponsors. In Panama, when I was down to $10,000, I knew something good had to happen and soon. A few weeks later, I Monday qualified for the Cognizant Classic and finished in the top five. I was off and running after that. In 2025, I was a PGA Tour rookie and won the Barracuda Championship.

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I want to win more tournaments,win a major and play in the Ryder Cup. I also want to use whatever success I have for good. In Scotland, they have short courses that are open to everyone. I want to open a course for kids like that. It’ll cost them basically nothing and be a safe place for them to get as good as they dream to be, like I had. —With Keely Levins

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Equipment The robot test that redraws the rules on fairway woods, hybrids and irons

Jarvis Hayes doesn’t recall the last time he felt tempted to play pickup basketball.

Going 1-on-1 against his teenage sons is the most that the 2003 NBA lottery pick can withstand. Anything more physically demanding requires too many jarring collisions for Hayes’ battle-weary body, too much explosive movement for his surgically repaired right knee. 

“I just can’t move like I used to,” Hayes, now 44, told Yahoo Sports. “I don't want to end up in the emergency room with a popped Achilles or some other crazy injury.”

Time has caught up with 57 of the 58 players who were part of the NBA’s celebrated 2003 draft class. Slowed by declining athleticism, lingering injuries and waning motivation, they’ve hung up their high tops and moved on to less strenuous careers, as coaches and TV analysts, investors and entrepreneurs, fruit farmers and insurance brokers.

Suffering through that humbling experience has only made some of those 2003 draftees more awestruck by the one member of their class who is defying the NBA’s typical age timeline. At 41, with thinning hair and a salt-and-pepper beard, LeBron James is still ripping through the seams of the defense, still throwing down reverse windmill slams, still tallying 20-plus-point games and near triple-doubles with staggering regularity. 

Joshua Gateley via Getty Images

With Luka Doncic sidelined by a hamstring injury and Austin Reaves unavailable for the opening four games of the series, James carried the Los Angeles Lakers past the younger, more athletic Houston Rockets in the opening round of the playoffs. The NBA’s most grizzled veteran then led all scorers with 27 points on Tuesday night as the underdog Lakers opened the Western Conference semifinals with a 108-90 loss to reigning champion Oklahoma City.

“The man has made close to $580 million in contract money and he's still grinding like an undrafted rookie,” said Troy Bell, the 16th overall pick in the 2003 draft.

Or as Hayes puts it, “We've never seen a player at this age have this type of impact. I know he's not going to play forever, but it damn sure feels like it.”

For some 2003 draftees, their introduction to James came via Michael Jordan, of all people. Each summer, Jordan invited an assortment of rising stars to serve as instructors at his Flight School camp in Santa Barbara, Calif. Among those who received invitations to the 2002 edition were an assortment of top college prospects and a high school phenom who Sports Illustrated had already anointed “The Chosen One.”

At the end of the first day of camp, the instructors split into two teams and treated the campers to a show. Early in that pickup game, 6-foot-11 Minnesota Golden Gophers forward Rick Rickert found himself in an unenviable position — on an island trying to slide his feet to prevent a 17-year-old James from blowing past him to the rim. 

At first, Rickert was confident. He showed up to Minnesota as a prized recruit and validated the hype by winning Big Ten freshman of the year honors. Why would Rickert be scared to check some high school hotshot two years younger than him? Then James got Rickert off balance and shook free of him with a step-back dribble. The way Rickert remembers it, the separation was so chasm-like that he couldn’t even contest James’ shot.

“I’m standing in the lane and now this dude’s at the 3-point line,” said Rickert, who nine months later would become the 55th pick in the 2003 NBA draft. “I might be exaggerating a little bit, but that’s what it felt like. I'm just sitting there like, ‘Holy crap, I wasn't expecting that.’”

It wasn’t long before James also began leaving NBA players gobsmacked. The endlessly hyped teenager became the NBA’s rookie of the year after averaging more than 20 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists during his debut season.

By 2005, James made his first of 22 consecutive NBA all-star teams. By 2007, James dragged a pedestrian Cleveland Cavaliers roster to the first of his 10 career NBA Finals appearances. Before long, James overtook Kobe Bryant as the NBA’s best player and biggest superstar and began amassing a résumé rivaled only by Jordan. No one has ever entered the NBA with more buildup than James. And yet, if anything, James exceeded expectations.

At the same time that James was ascending the NBA’s all-time scoring chart and refusing to give in to the Golden State Warriors dynasty, other luminaries from the 2003 NBA Draft class began showing their age.

Spinal injuries cut short point guard TJ Ford’s NBA career in 2012. Severe knee injuries and an unflattering viral video sent Josh Howard tumbling out of the NBA in 2012 and forced the former all-star to stop pursuing basketball in 2014. From 2016 to 2019, Kirk Hinrich, Mo Williams, David West, Nick Collison, Kendrick Perkins and James’ former Miami Heat co-stars Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh each also announced their retirements. When Carmelo Anthony couldn’t find an NBA team willing to offer him a contract before the 2022-23 season, James became the final 2003 draft pick still active.

Last March, James became the NBA’s ultimate ironman, breaking Hall of Fame center Robert Parish’s record for career games played. He now has appeared in 1,622 regular-season games and another 299 playoff games, the equivalent of nearly another four full seasons.

“He’s an anomaly,” Rickert said. “We might not see anyone like him for a long, long time.”

Credit James’ unprecedented longevity to his discipline taking care of his body. He devotes long hours every day to preparation, strength and conditioning and recovery. 

It starts the first 6 to 8 weeks of the offseason when James goes out of his way not to touch a basketball. He instead spends his time doing yoga, pilates, stretching, massages, anything he can do to rejuvenate his body.

For James, the latter half of the offseason is all about ramping up his conditioning, sharpening his skills and getting his mind right. There’s no substitute for logging 38 minutes in an NBA game, but James tries to get himself as close to game shape as possible. 

Rest, hydration and nutrition are key for James in-season. He aims for 8-10 hours of sleep per day. He totes around a 1 gallon jug of water and downs a couple of those by the time he goes to bed at night. A private chef helps ensure that his meals are balanced and loaded with lean proteins, fruits and vegetables.

Chocolate chip cookies and ice cream are James’ vices, he admitted last year on the Mind the Game Podcast with Steve Nash, but even when he cheats, he’s purposeful about it. 

Jamie Squire via Getty Images

“I have to get the dairy-free ice cream and the low-fat, gluten-free cookies,” James said. “My daughter goes in [the freezer]. She gets her vanilla bean ice cream with extra cream. I’ll be looking at it like, ‘Damn, that looks so good.’”

Painstaking preparation has enabled James to play at a high level into his 40s, but he is only human. There are times when he’ll get out of bed the morning after a game with an aching back, sore ankles and heavy legs. 

As James admitted to Nash, “Those are the moments I’m like, ‘Bron, what the hell are you still doing out here? What the f— are you doing?”

To Bell, what James is doing is unfathomable. The former two-time Big East player of the year at Boston College knows firsthand how tough it is to even play at a high level into your mid-30s.

At the end of his 13th season of professional basketball, Bell remembers dialing his agent and revealing that he was ready to retire. He had played in six different countries and on three different continents. His surgically repaired knees ached and his stiff back felt like it was made of rusty iron. 

“Please don’t reach out to me about another job because I’ve never been good at turning down good contracts,” Bell instructed his agent. “I have to transition to being a normal working person because my body can’t do this anymore.”

While Bell has started a second life as a high school basketball coach in his native Minnesota, James keeps adding to his unparalleled NBA résumé. He surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer three years ago. A year later, he became the first NBA player to play alongside his own son. 

James scored 10 or more points in 1,297 straight games from January 6, 2007, to December 4, 2025. Then he ended that streak in the most fitting possible way earlier this season, driving and kicking to an open Rui Hachimura in the left corner for a buzzer-beating 3-pointer rather than forcing a shot to try to reach 10 points.

It has been 23 years since Bell first met James before they both became first-round picks in the 2003 NBA Draft. How James’ career has unfolded since then is so remarkable that Bell likens it to an unrealistic movie script. 

Said Bell, “If they would have given all of us a pen and paper in 2003 and had every single one of us write down our ideal NBA career, none of us would have been able to write down anything better than what he's currently living.”

PSG-Arsenal will be the Champions League final. After the Gunners, Luis Enrique’s team books its ticket to Budapest thanks to the draw in Munich. Completing the picture of the European cups tonight are the two Europa League second-leg semifinals and the two Conference League semifinals.

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

Meanwhile, the Italian teams continue working ahead of their final official fixtures in Serie A (and the Coppa Italia) and the summer transfer market, which is fast approaching. Let’s take a look at today’s biggest news.

Juventus, Alaba offered to the Bianconeri

Juventus are weighing up a possible high-experience market opportunity: David Alaba. According to Tuttosport, in recent hours agent Pini Zahavi has offered the Real Madrid defender to the Bianconeri management. The idea is especially appealing to Luciano Spalletti, who greatly appreciates the Austrian’s tactical versatility, as he can play as a centre-back, left-back, and even as a defensive midfielder.

The first talks between the parties are said to have been positive, but the deal remains complicated. The main doubts concern the player’s physical condition, coming off several muscle problems, and above all his salary: Alaba earns around €10 million net per season and would have to significantly lower his wages to move to Turin.

Milan, Leao heading for goodbye? Saudi option back in a big way

Rafael Leao’s future at Milan looks increasingly uncertain. According to the Gazzetta dello Sport, there is a growing feeling inside the Rossoneri club that the Portuguese star’s cycle may have reached the end of the line. Inconsistent performances, combined with a relationship with the environment that is no longer as solid, are said to be pushing Milan to seriously consider a sale next summer.

The financial demands have dropped compared to the past: today his transfer value would range between €50 million and €60 million. There is still interest from the Premier League, especially from Manchester United, as well as some enquiries from Spain.

In recent weeks, however, the Saudi option is also said to have returned strongly: Al Hilal are reportedly monitoring the situation and could offer Leao a huge contract. In Saudi Arabia, the Portuguese forward would reunite with Simone Inzaghi and Theo Hernandez, his long-time partner down the left flank.

Inter, goalkeeper puzzle: Stankovic, Vicario or trust in Martinez?

Inter are already working on life after Sommer and preparing a revolution between the posts. According to Matteo Moretto on Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube channel, the Nerazzurri are evaluating several solutions.

One of the most concrete ideas leads to Filip Stankovic, fresh off helping Venezia win promotion. Inter maintain a favourable clause to buy him back and could bring him back to Milan at a limited cost.

However, the track leading to Tottenham’s Vicario also remains open: the goalkeeper has reportedly already opened the door to a return to Italy, but there is still no financial agreement with the English club.

Meanwhile, the internal option is also gaining traction: the management are said to be considering truly handing the goal to Josep Martinez, with a reliable and experienced backup behind him.

Napoli, Lukaku’s agent: “He’ll return to his level”

Romelu Lukaku’s current form continues to spark debate at Napoli, but his agent is trying to silence any doubts.

Interviewed by DAZN Belgium, Federico Pastorello defended the Belgian striker after a complicated season:

“Romelu remains an incredible striker. This year has been difficult, but he’ll have a great World Cup and return to his level.”

Roma, Friedkin wants Manna, but ADL asks for €10 million

Roma are also thinking about the club management of the future and have reportedly identified Giovanni Manna as one of their preferred profiles for the post-Massara role. According to Repubblica, the Friedkins and Gian Piero Gasperini have met directly with Napoli’s current sporting director, making him a concrete offer.

The main obstacle is Aurelio De Laurentiis: the Napoli president reportedly has no intention of letting Manna go easily and would even be asking for compensation of around €10 million, considering the three years still left on his contract.

Lazio, Motta convinces everyone: renewal already being considered

Edoardo Motta’s season could radically change Lazio’s future. Initially brought in as Provedel’s backup, the former Reggiana goalkeeper suddenly found himself as the starter after the Biancocelesti No. 1’s injury, gradually winning over both the environment and the club.

According to the Corriere dello Sport, his performances — culminating in the extraordinary Coppa Italia semifinal against Atalanta, also decided by the penalties he saved — have convinced Lotito and Fabiani to consider a contract renewal with improved financial terms.

Fiorentina, Paratici studying post-Vanoli options: Grosso in pole position

At Fiorentina, the idea of parting ways with Paolo Vanoli at the end of the season is gaining more and more ground.

According to Matteo Moretto, new sporting director Fabio Paratici is evaluating several profiles for the Viola bench. Among them, Fabio Grosso stands out in particular, considered one of the most concrete names also because of his long-standing relationship with Paratici.

Inigo Perez was also liked, but the Spanish coach now appears close to Villarreal. Also on the table is the intriguing option of Daniele De Rossi, although Genoa are reportedly working to tie him down with a new contract until 2028.

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

Nicklas Nielsen hopes Ferrari can take revenge on Toyota at this weekend's World Endurance Championship race at Imola, but conceded it won't be an easy task.

At last month's season opener at Imola, Ferrari started from pole position and held a 1-2 in the early stages. But Toyota managed to outgun Ferrari on the Italian marque's home soil, with Sebastien Buemi, Ryo Hirakawa and Brendon Hartley taking the top spot in the heavily revised TR010 Hybrid.

Ferrari Hypercar driver Nielsen hopes his team can level the score with Toyota in what is considered something of a 'second home race' for the Japanese manufacturer, given the proximity to Cologne, where the team’s factory is based.

“I hope so,” Nielsen told Motorsport when asked if this felt like a chance for revenge. “Obviously, we would have liked it to finish a bit different in Imola, but we saw how important the track position was there, and probably we underestimated that a bit.

“Also, being at the very beginning of the pitlane, obviously it was a bit easy for them also to see when we arrived and they could unplug a bit earlier. So yeah, I mean, it was a bit of a mix there, but hopefully we will get revenge here.”

#50 Ferrari AF Corse Ferrari 499P: Nicklas Nielsen

Alessandro Pier Guidi, who drives the #51 Ferrari 499P, did not necessarily want to speak of revenge against Toyota.

“I wouldn’t say revenge, it’s just a race,” he said. “They won in Imola, they did a very good job and had a very quick car. At the end, the championship is still long.”

“We try to do as best as we can with what we have and score as many points as we can. It’s just the second race of the season, so it’s still a long journey.”

Ferrari won the Spa-Francorchamps 6 Hours last year, but it expects more competition than just Toyota this year.

“We saw BMW and Alpine being very strong here last year, and nothing has really changed from Imola. On paper, they should be quite strong again,” Nielsen predicted.

“We saw Alpine was probably our biggest competitor here last year... you never really know, but of course we are here to win.

"For sure, it’s not going to be easy, and we are never underestimating the performance of the others, because we’ve seen that it’s getting closer and closer basically every race, so I think it’s going to be quite interesting here.”

Nyck de Vries on potential McLaren Hypercar link-up: “I’ll keep that to myself”

McLaren's LMDh prototype hits the track for the first time

Asked by Motorsport whether he expected Spa’s characteristics to suit the 499P better than Imola, Nielsen replied: “The first time we came to Imola, we didn’t really expect our car to be as strong as it was there, because this is more like a track for our car, here in Spa.

“But it really depends also on the grip level of the circuit. Imola is a track with quite a lot of grip compared to most others. And we have a good, flowing car – it’s nice to drive and there’s a good flow when we drive it – so that’s why we saw ourselves being very strong in Imola as well.

“Here we’ve already seen from the first year that the car was very strong, in 2024 and also last year, finishing first and second. So, we are optimistic, but we still have to wait and see.”

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

Scotland pair George Horne and Matt Fagerson return from injury on Friday evening as Glasgow Warriors host Cardiff in their final home match of the URC regular season.

Both players have been missing since April, through an ankle injury for Horne and hamstring issue for Fagerson.

Zander Fagerson completes the front-row trio with Jamie Bhatti and Johnny Matthews, while Ally Miller makes his first start in the second-row.

Matt Fagerson and Rory Darge line up on the flanks, with Dan Lancaster returning to the line-up at number 10. Horne starts at scrum-half in a Warriors side showing nine changes.

Glasgow currently trail leaders Stormers by a single point and will be aiming for a five-point haul to put pressure on the South Africans, who are away to Ulster on Friday.

"Everyone is looking forward to being back at our home tomorrow night," said head coach Franco Smith.

"Cardiff remain firmly in the play-off hunt with a squad fully committed to their goal, and they will come here ready to compete for everything.

"Our focus this week has been on ourselves. We know how much the supporters are a part of our journey, especially this season – we want to give them a performance to be proud of in our last home game of the regular season."

Glasgow Warriors: McKay, Steyn (capt), McDowall, Tuipulotu, Rowe, Lancaster, Horne; Bhatti, Matthews, Z Fagerson, Miller, Samuel, M Fagerson, Darge, Dempsey.

Replacements: Hiddleston, Schickerling, Talakai, Oguntibeju, Duncan, Vailanu, Afshar, Smith.

Each year, the NFL draft is a spectacle where hundreds of thousands of fans either attend the event in person, or gather around the world to see who their favorite teams will be adding to their team. For the Chicago Bears, not only do they have all eyes on their draft class, but they have found diamonds in the rough outside of the draft with rookie free agents.

This year, the Bears were one organization that was discussed heavily for the UDFA class they assembled, which included former Tulane cornerback KC Eziomume. Eziomume, who took the road less traveled making stops at Alabama A&M, University of Albany, and Tulane, rose through the rankings in his collegiate career and will now be looking to rise up the ranks at the NFL level.

In an interview with Bears Wire, Eziomume discussed his journey through the draft weekend, his collegiate career, and his excitement to work with the coaching staff, especially Al Harris.

Working with Bears coach Al Harris

It's no secret that Bears defensive backs coach Al Harris was an integral part of the defense's takeaway success last season, leading the league with 23 interceptions. And the fact that they were able to retain him despite interest for defensive coordinator jobs was a huge win for head coach Ben Johnson. Eziomume is eager to work with this Chicago coaching staff, notably Harris.

"I'm really just excited to get to work, especially with a legend like (Harris)," Eziomume said. "I have talked to some of the corners on the team currently and with the scheme, I like the scheme, I like the coverages they do. Everything they do, I feel like it fits me. I feel like I'll be a great fit. I'm really just ready to get up there and get to working with him, honestly."

Handling draft weekend

While understanding where his position was coming into the 2026 NFL Draft, Eziomume detailed draft weekend and how his journey landed him in Chicago. Eziomume said he didn't know where his road was heading, having heard interest from several teams.

"So coming into the draft, I knew day three was going to be a big day, whether it was getting drafted late or getting signed," he said. "So I was looking forward to day three. I remember my agent was telling me before the draft, I had some buzz from the Colts and the Dolphins. And maybe day two of the draft, I think the Bears said they were interested in me as a priority free agent. So I'm like, 'All right, that's cool.' Because in the process, you're hearing a lot of stuff from everywhere. So he's like, 'Yeah, it's cool, but you don't want to just harp on it and then be hurt.' So I'm like, 'All right, that's cool.'

"So then day three comes. We're in the fifth or sixth round, I'm with my friends. We were going to go celebrate and stuff, just have fun, chill, and I get a call in the sixth round like, 'Yo, what are you doing?' I'm like, 'I'm just driving. I'm chilling.' He said, 'The Bears are signing you.' I said, 'The Bears?' I said, 'Okay.' So I'm getting happy, you know what I'm saying? Then five minutes later, the coach calls me, or the staff calls me from the Bears, and it was like, 'Hi, KC. How you doing? It's the Bears. We'll do--' And that's when I really turnt up. I'm like, 'Yo, this is real.' Because I've been dreaming about going to the league my whole life, and there's not that many people that have the opportunity to do that. So I was turnt. I was turnt, I'm not going to lie. I was turned up, yeah."

What the Bears are getting in Eziomume

Taking the road less traveled, Eziomume will come into his rookie season with a chip on his shoulder and understanding to what needs to be done for this team and coaching staff as he looks to earn a coveted roster spot this summer.

"Even though I got signed, I'm still coming in as an undrafted free agent," Eziomume said. "I still got a lot to prove. I still got a name to prove. I feel like even if I was to come in as a first-rounder, I feel like I still have a lot to prove because, yeah, okay, we got to the league. Now what? You don't just get to the league and stay there. You got to keep working. So that's just the mentality I have. Next day, just keep working, keep consistent. I'm always grinding to be better, be better than the next day. They're getting a hard worker. They're getting somebody that's consistent. They're getting somebody that's going to put their all, and they're getting somebody that's going to strap the number one receiver, wherever it is. Someone who they can look up to."

The football will be Eziomume's

Joining a Bears defense that led the NFL in takeaways (33) during the 2025 season, Eziomume plans to fit right in with their mindset and says any quarterback that tries him will get intercepted.

"When that ball's in the air, it's mine, and if it's not mine, it's not theirs," he said. "It's simple like that. I have got to come down with it, or they can't come down with it. Either one of the two. So, it's just going to be exciting to do that in the league, knowing that I've been training for this, I've been working for this my whole life. And to actually perform, I'm ready to perform in a great crowd. I'm ready to rock on that field, look at the crowd, look at the fans and just ball out. Just giving people what they came here for."

The rookie took it a step further, playing right into the hands of his new hometown fans, giving a very direct answer to his plans going up against Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love.

"As many times as he throw my way, I plan to come down with it," Eziomume said.

Last season, head coach Ben Johnson showed that he didn't care where a young player was drafted or what their draft status was; if they can play, he'll get them on the field. Given several losses on the defensive side, drafted or not, Eziomume comes into a situation with the Bears where he has an opportunity to get coached by Al Harris in the secondary, Dennis Allen as defensive coordinator, Johnson as head coach, and plenty of opportunity to come with that.

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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears' UDFA KC Eziomume ready to live out dream, give fans a show

Marvin Bartley has resigned as head coach of Livingston following their relegation from the Scottish Premiership.

The 39-year-old former Hibernian, Livingston and Bournemouth midfielder took charge in January, stepping up from the assistant's role once David Martindale moved into a sporting director position.

Coach Neil Hastings has left along with Bartley as veteran midfielder Scott Arfield heads up an interim management team for the three remaining top-flight matches.

Martindale, who has been at the club since 2014, became manager six years ago and led Livingston back to the Premiership at the first time of asking through the play-offs following relegation two seasons ago.

However, this season they went on a 33-game run without a victory, with 31 in the league being a record in the Scottish top flight.

Bartley did lead his side to a 2-0 win at St Mirren two weeks ago, but despite Friday's 2-2 draw with Aberdeen, their fate was sealed when second-bottom Kilmarnock beat Dundee United the following day.

The former Queen of the South manager moves on with a record of one win, six draws and four defeats.

• What went wrong for relegated Livingston?

• Visit our Livingston page for all the latest news, analysis and fan views
• Get Livingston news notifications in the BBC Sport app

Real Madrid’s crisis is at its worst point. Since yesterday, reports have been coming out that there were fistfights in the dressing room, and the latest one was between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouaméni.

At this moment, a crisis meeting is taking place, with El Clásico as the next target to calm things down.

However, the one who seems to care very little about what is happening is Kylian Mbappé.

The Frenchman left Valdebebas laughing, as if absolutely nothing had happened. In the middle of the signature drive calling for him to leave the club, he is paying no attention to it.

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

The New England Patriots already know their 2026 opponents, and have done so since the end of the regular season in January. What they do not know yet, however, is when they will play all of them.

With the NFL Draft in the rear view mirror and the calendar having turned to May, that mystery will soon come to an end. Even though no date for the release has been announced by the league just yet, it should come later this month and again be turned into a primetime event.

Before said event, the schedule release is traditionally preceded by plenty of leaks, rumors and prior announcements. In order to stay on top of things and up to date with credible information, we have set up our Pats Pulpit Schedule Release Tracker.

Please make sure to keep this page bookmarked and regularly check back in.

Patriots 2026 opponents

Home: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders, Pittsburgh Steelers, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants

Road: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Seattle Seahawks

Patriots rumored 2026 schedule

• Week 1: TBD
• Week 2: TBD
• Week 3: TBD
• Week 4: TBD
• Week 5: TBD
• Week 6: TBD
• Week 7: TBD
• Week 8: TBD
• Week 9: TBD
• Week 10: TBD
• Week 11: TBD
• Week 12: TBD
• Week 13: TBD
• Week 14: TBD
• Week 15: TBD
• Week 16: TBD
• Week 17: TBD
• Week 18: TBD

Patriots 2026 schedule tracker

3/30: The Patriots will hold joint practices with the Eagles this summer, suggesting that they will play a preseason game that very well might be dubbed the “A.J. Brown Bowl.” | Source

Ohio State enters 2026 the way elite programs often do. Loaded enough to contend for a Big Ten title and a national championship, but unfinished enough that a handful of position battles will determine whether the roster becomes merely very good or truly championship-caliber.

That distinction matters because the Buckeyes are replacing major production in several spots while also trying to integrate a large wave of newcomers, transfers, and second-year players into meaningful roles.

The roster still has stars like Julian Sayin, Jeremiah Smith, Jermaine Mathews Jr, Austin Siereveld and Jaylen McClain, but Ohio State’s ceiling will be determined by the places where the answer is not yet obvious. And the spots where Ryan Day and his staff still need clarity, trust, and consistency.

The most important thing about these battles is that they are not all equal. Some are about filling snaps, others are about preserving the structure of the entire team. Ohio State can survive a wide receiver rotation that takes until late September to settle.

It cannot easily survive uncertainty on the right side of the offensive line, a defense that cannot settle its second safety and nickel responsibilities, or an unsettled running back room if injuries continue to linger into the fall.

Championship teams usually show who they are by how quickly they lock in the positions that define them. For Ohio State in 2026, that identity starts up front and shapes everything else.

The offensive line battle may decide everything else

No battle looms larger than the one unfolding across the offensive line, particularly on the right side. Ohio State returns four of five starters and significant cumulative experience, but that surface-level stability masks the central issue.

The line’s weakest moments were the reason the 2025 season ended the way it did. Losses against Indiana and Miami exposed protection issues, including multiple five-sack performances that disrupted the offense’s rhythm. While Austin Siereveld was a bright spot at left tackle, the right side remains the clearest area in need of resolution.

That competition is wide open. Ian Moore is pushing for a starting tackle role, while Joshua Padilla, Gabe VanSickle, and Phillip Daniels are all part of the conversation as the staff searches for its “best five.” That outcome will shape everything else Ohio State wants to be offensively.

With Arthur Smith now influencing the offensive structure, the goal is clear. More balance, more physicality, and more consistency in the run game. But none of that matters if protection remains unstable. A reliable offensive line allows Sayin to be aggressive, keeps the run game on schedule, and unlocks the full depth of the skill positions.

If it doesn’t come together, even a talented offense can become predictable and limited. On a roster filled with high profile storylines, this remains the most important and least glamorous battle.

WR3, RB2, and the shape of the offense

Wide receiver may appear settled at the top, but the battle for the next layer of the rotation still matters.

Jeremiah Smith is the focal point, and Brandon Inniss brings experience and leadership, but the competition behind them will help define how the offense functions. Transfers Devin McCuin and Kyle Parker bring experience, while Chris Henry Jr. adds high-end upside as a freshman.

Ryan Day has hinted at a deeper rotation this season, which would represent a shift from the top heavy receiver usage of past years. That decision will shape how the offense distributes touches and handles key situations. If one player clearly emerges as the third option, the offense gains structure and defined roles.

If multiple players remain interchangeable, Ohio State gains flexibility but risks lacking a consistent secondary option in critical moments. The question is not just who plays, it’s how the hierarchy develops.

Running back presents a different kind of challenge, largely due to injuries. Bo Jackson and Isaiah West missed spring recovering from shoulder surgeries, while Legend Bey dealt with a hamstring issue. That left players like Ja’Kobi Jackson and Favour Akih to take the majority of reps.

The result is an incomplete evaluation. A healthy Bo Jackson provides proven production, but the shape of the room behind him remains unclear. Whether Ja’Kobi Jackson becomes a trusted complement or Bey’s explosiveness demands touches will determine how versatile and dynamic the offense can be.

Until the room is fully healthy, this remains one of the most difficult positions to project.

The defensive battles that will define the ceiling

On defense, the question is not whether Ohio State will be good, it’s whether it can remain elite. Replacing players like Caleb Downs and Lorenzo Styles Jr. creates uncertainty in the secondary, particularly at safety and nickel.

Jaylen McClain provides stability, but the rest of the group, including Terry Moore, Earl Little Jr, and Leroy Roker III, will determine how the defense structures itself on the back end. Until those roles are clearly defined, the defense remains less settled than it was a year ago.

Linebacker carries a different kind of importance. With Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles gone in the top ten of the NFL Draft, Ohio State must replace not just athleticism, but communication and consistency. Christian Alliegro looks to be positioned for a major role, but the competition between Riley Pettijohn and Payton Pierce will shape the unit’s identity.

At defensive end, the spot opposite Kenyatta Jackson Jr. remains wide open. With Zion Grady, Qua Russaw, and Beau Atkinson all competing. The pieces are there, but like much of the defense, the unit’s ceiling depends on how quickly those roles are solidified and which one of those guys steps up.

The verdict: Ceiling is about solving the right problems fast

Ohio State’s 2026 roster is talented enough that it does not need every position battle to produce a star. But it does need to solve the right ones, and solve them quickly.

The offensive line must stabilize to support everything else. The running back room must get healthy enough to create balance. The receiver rotation must find clarity, whether through hierarchy or depth. And the defense must define its structure at safety, nickel, and linebacker quickly enough to play with confidence and instinct.

These are not secondary storylines. They are the difference between a team that has championship talent and one that fully realizes it.

Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni got into another fight during Thursday’s training session with the Uruguayan midfielder needing to be taken to hospital to get some stitches after he took a hard hit. The incident was reportedly much more severe than the previous one, requiring teammates to step in and break it up.

Apparently, and according to reports on MARCA and AS, Valverde refused to shake Tchouameni’s hand early in the morning and that preceded a tension-filled session.

In an unprecedented move, the entire squad remained at the training facility for an emergency “crisis cabinet” meeting. No players were allowed to leave until the situation was addressed internally. Real Madrid leadership is deeply concerned by the growing division and high levels of tension within the squad, describing the current atmosphere as one of “maximum alert,“ per reports published on MARCA and AS.

Ty France came in to pinch-hit in the top of the seventh inning and hit a two-out, two-run triple to score Fernando Tatis Jr. and Ramon Laureano to give the San Diego Padres a 3-1 lead over the San Francisco Giants. Xander Bogaerts, who entered the game in the bottom of the seventh inning as a defensive substitution, added a two-run home run in the top of the eighth inning to make the score 5-1 and the Padres went on to beat the Giants and win the series before returning home to Petco Park. San Diego only outhit San Francisco 6-3 and the Padres were 2-for-10 with RISP, while the Giants were held without an opportunity to hit with runners in scoring position.

Matt Waldron did not start the game, instead he followed Bradgley Rodriguez, who pitch one inning without allowing a run to open the game. Waldron came into the game in the bottom of the second inning and pitched five innings without allowing a walk. He finished his five innings with one run allowed on two hits with seven strikeouts. Adrian Morejon covered the seventh and eighth innings and allowed one hit with four strikeouts. Mason Miller was called on to get the final three outs in the ninth inning and he did just that while recording two strikeouts.

The Padres return to home today to host the St. Louis Cardinals at Petco Park at 7:10 p.m.

Padres News:

• Sung-Mun Song has provided a boost of energy to the Padres lineup since he joined the team earlier this week.

Baseball News:

• The Chicago Cubs won their third consecutive game in walk-off fashion.

• Paul Skene nearly threw a perfect game, but ultimately, he led the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 1-0 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks.

• The Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Houston Astros, 12-2 thanks to three home runs from Andy Pages.

• Juan Soto hit a leadoff home run and helped the New York Mets beat the Colorado Rockies.

• The Texas Rangers knocked off the New York Yankees, 6-1.

• The Washington Nationals broke out for 15 runs to beat the Minnesota Twins.

• The Philadelphia Phillies got past the Athletics, 6-3.

Major League Baseball suspended Detroit Tigers star pitcher Framber Valdez for five games (originally six games, but it was reduced to five games after he agreed to drop any appeal) on Wednesday after he was ejected from Tuesday night’s game against the Boston Red Sox.

After allowing back-to-back home runs and 10 runs overall to the Red Sox, Valdez drilled Boston’s Trevor Story in the back with a 94 mph fastball with no outs in the fourth inning, and benches cleared in Detroit.

Benches clear in the 4th inning of the Red Sox-Tigers game in Detroit. pic.twitter.com/8CigiKH63L

— MLB (@MLB) May 5, 2026

Even Tigers manager A.J. Hinch didn’t approve of Valdez intentionally throwing at the Red Sox.

Well, on Thursday, Detroit radio host Jim Costa of 97.1 The Ticket went off on a “jackass” caller who defended Valdez.

Costa loses it on a Framber Valdez defender pic.twitter.com/JfA2cmWpqw

— 97.1 The Ticket: (@971theticketxyt) May 6, 2026

“This channel is soft as a cupcake,” the caller said. “That game was so far over. That game was so far over. If you want to read his pitches, you’re going to wear a 99 mph heater to the spine.”

“Don’t tip your pitches,” Costa responded. “Why are you tipping your pitches?”

“Don’t read; don’t read my pitches,” the caller continued.

“Stop being so readable, bro,” Costa said.

“99, right at the back of your neck,” the caller said. “I’m going to break it.”

“Yeah, we should sever vertebrae because we don’t know how to pitch,” Costa mocked, angrily. “And you’re the tough guy?”

“Sever vertebrae, and I guarantee they won’t tip him again,” the caller said.

“Yeah, let’s put him in the hospital because I’m tough, Adam,” Costa said. “Yeah, that’s how cool I am. You’re a jackass.”

“Are we serious?” Costa continued. “That’s a guy calling in and saying, ‘I want to paralyze people because I’m tipping my pitches.’ You should be… I went light on him. That is outrageous to call in and say that. You want to talk about who’s soft? It’s the guy who can’t handle giving up home runs that’s soft.”

I’m astounded at the amount of Tommy tough guys I’ve dealt with today

Without Skubal, Valdez is the ace of the staff. A highly paid one too

His bullpen is nuked and instead of battling he got in his feelings, got tossed and made his teammates fight his battles.

That’s soft https://t.co/kPrtOjG4s4

— Jim Costa (@JimCosta_) May 6, 2026

“I’m astounded at the amount of Tommy tough guys I’ve dealt with today,” Costa posted to X. “Without Skubal, Valdez is the ace of the staff. A highly paid one too. His bullpen is nuked and instead of battling he got in his feelings, got tossed and made his teammates fight his battles. That’s soft.”

The post Detroit radio host Jim Costa goes off on Framber Valdez defender appeared first on Awful Announcing.

Zach Neto found the strangest possible way out of a slump, and Mike Trout somehow called the entire thing before it happened.

The Los Angeles Angels shortstop had been searching for a spark during a rough stretch at the plate. Instead of more batting cage work or another mechanical adjustment, Trout offered a different kind of reset.

He brought out Pokemon cards, and by the end of the night, the Charizard luck had turned into real home runs.

Zach Neto credits Charizard pull after Mike Trout’s pregame idea

As shared via MLB on X, Trout tried to help Neto loosen up before the game.

“Mike Trout opened Pokemon cards with Zach Neto before yesterday’s game to get his mind off his slump,” MLB revealed on Twitter.

“Neto pulled a Charizard card, and Trout said the box of cards would bring them home runs, then they both hit home runs,” the league added.

Neto had been stuck in a 0-for-23 slump before the Angels’ matchup against the Chicago White Sox.

Trout told him that if they pulled a Charizard, both of them would homer that night. Neto pulled the card, then later thanked Charizard after breaking through at the plate.

Mike Trout and Zach Neto both homer as the LA Angels beat the Chicago White Sox

The pregame prediction somehow played out almost perfectly.

Trout hit a solo home run in the first inning, his 11th of the season and the 415th of his career, helping the Angels respond after Chicago took an early lead.

Neto first snapped his hitless streak with a single, then delivered the biggest swing of the night in the fifth inning with a go-ahead solo home run.

Jorge Soler also homered for Los Angeles, while Nolan Schanuel added an RBI double to score Trout and give the Angels enough separation.

The White Sox pushed back late, but Ryan Zeferjahn escaped a bases-loaded jam in the ninth to seal a 4-3 Angels win.

For Neto, the box of Pokemon cards became more than a clubhouse distraction. It gave him a mental reset, a viral moment, and a slump-busting home run all in one night.

Read more:

Now the Saudi Public Investment Fund has withdrawn support from LIV Golf for next season, the future of its players is clouded in uncertainty.

Some of the biggest stars on LIV, like Bryson DeChambeau, have begun formulating exit plans. Some may try to follow Brooks Koepka’s footsteps and return to the PGA Tour. Some may follow Patrick Reed to the DP World Tour. Others may try to stick it out on LIV.

But only a select few players would be allowed to make a PGA Tour return. There is not enough room for every LIV player to come back, that would be unfair to the current cast who remained loyal to the tour.

It’s been speculated that the PGA Tour would only want DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, and Joaquin Niemann back if they were to jump ship. Neimann adds value to the tour through the South American market he brings in.

Speaking after the news that LIV had lost its funding, Neimann said he would like to return to the PGA Tour.

Joaquin Niemann would ‘love’ to play on the PGA Tour again

While DeChambeau is currently playing games with the PGA Tour during his negotiations, threatening to do YouTube full-time and saying the tour “isn’t doing great”, Niemann isn’t engaging in similar tactics.

He said he’s willing to play a season on the DP World Tour like Reed, and after that he’d love to come back. Speaking to Beyond the Clubhouse, he said, “I mean I would love to keep playing golf, of course.

“I have got the DP World Tour. I don’t have status there, but it would be nice to go and play there. And then if one day we can go back to the PGA Tour, I would love to play on the PGA Tour. That is the scenarios that could happen if LIV disappears, which I don’t think it is going to happen.”

It’s a healthy attitude from Niemann, who likely knows he’d have to earn his way back onto the PGA Tour if he did have to leave LIV. But it also sounds like he’s committed to LIV until it collapses. We’ll see if he stays true to that in the coming months.

Joaquin Niemann shares reaction to LIV losing PIF funding

Niemann was asked what his initial reaction was to the news that LIV Golf had lost PIF funding. The 26-year-old said, “It is what it is. I guess we have got to get a new business plan. I think Scott and his team is going to do a great job doing that.

“I feel like people under pressure work better. At least in my case. So I feel like it’s going to be good to have that pressure now that we have got to raise the money, got to find a new plan and find a new method to raise the money.

“I think it’s going to be good for the league. We are finally going to be sustainable if we find this and it’s the right business plan.”

He was then asked what his communication with Scott O’Neil has been like since the news broke, and Niemann replied, “It’s great. Scott and his team try to communicate as much as they can with the captains.

“I think the communication is great. It’s nice to have every player and person here on LIV trying to make this place a better place and this tour a better tour and grow the game and go to places we have never been and different countries.

“I think we are doing a great job. We are going to keep doing a great job. It’s nice to be supported by everybody here on LIV.”

It sounds like, at least from what he’s saying publicly, Niemann isn’t experiencing the panic that is coming across from many of the LIV stars. It seems he’s happy to step away and play on the DP World Tour if needed, so no problems for him!

The Yankees broke their five-game winning streak on Wednesday, their offense finally getting stopped as Yankee Killer Nathan Eovaldi dominated them once again. Their last two losses both came at his hands, as he tossed seven shutout innings in their series in Texas before going eight strong with just an Aaron Judge solo shot blemishing his line in the Bronx.

The loss opens the door for the team’s rivals to have a rare chance to catch up with them, as they’ve lost just 3 of their last 18 games. Only one team taking the field was really within eyesight, and unfortunately they moved closer in that rear view mirror after taking advantage of the chance.

Tampa Bay Rays (24-12) 3, Toronto Blue Jays (16-21) 0

The Rays have also been red-hot, especially at home, and their home cooking kept going as they shut down the defending AL champs. Shane McClanahan pitched into the sixth inning, allowing just two hits and a walk against four strikeouts, and the rest of the Rays’ bullpen allowed just two hits the rest of the way to suffocate Toronto’s chances of ever starting a rally.

Meanwhile, Tampa Bay struck in the fourth inning against Patrick Corbin. After Junior Caminero led off with a lineout, Jonathan Aranda walked to put a runner on ahead of Jonny DeLuca’s RBI double. Corbin got the second out to nearly keep it a minor scratch, but Chandler Simpson singled to right to score DeLuca and put up a crooked number in the inning. As it wound up, that would be all the damage that Tampa needed, but they got an insurance run in the eighth as Cedric Mullins singled and got moved around on a pair of grounders, eventually scoring on a throwing error from Ernie Clement.

Other Games

Boston Red Sox (16-21) 4, Detroit Tigers (18-20) 0: Jack Flaherty had a rollercoaster of a day, striking out 10 batters in just five innings but allowing four runs (two earned) in the process. The two earned came in the third inning on an RBI double from Caleb Durbin and a sacrifice fly from Willson Contreras, while the two unearned came in the fourth after a grounder bounced off of Colt Keith into the corner in left field. Sonny Gray made his first start since April 20th and delivered five shutout on the other side, and the Sox bullpen prevented any hits from the Tigers bats to finish the sweep. Bad times in the Motor City, while Boston might feel a tad refreshed.

Cleveland Guardians (19-19) 3, Kansas City Royals (17-20) 1: Kansas City struck first, getting a sacrifice fly from Salvador Perez in the third inning, but it was all Cleveland the rest of the way. A leadoff walk and a single in the top of the fifth set up a double steal to put runners in scoring position with one out for Chase DeLauter, who drove them both home with a single to left field. The eighth saw them get some insurance, José Ramírez leading off with a walk and stealing second before eventually scoring on a groundout to third that bounced off of Maikel Garcia forcing Bobby Witt Jr. to field the ball.

Seattle Mariners (18-20) 3, Atlanta Braves (26-12) 1: Facing off against the team with the best record in baseball, the M’s managed a series victory in the rubber match thanks to six strong from Bryan Woo. It was the first time all year that Atlanta lost a series. Woo struck out nine batters and allowed just a single hit, walking two and giving up no runs. Martín Pérez did his best to match him, going 5.2 innings, but a double play ball in the third inning still brought home a run and Julio Rodríguez launched a solo shot in the fifth to give Seattle a 2-0 lead. Atlanta cut the deficit in half with a sacrifice fly in the eighth, but Seattle got it right back thanks to an RBI double from Cole Young.

Ahead of their final Bundesliga home game of the 2025/26 season against Eintracht Frankfurt (Saturday, 9 May, 15.45 CEST), FC Bayern Women will bid farewell to Mala Grohs, Carolin Simon, Georgia Stanway, Natalia Padilla Bidas and assistant coach Kjetil Lone.

In addition, ahead of the clash with Eintracht Frankfurt, Lea Schüller and Tuva Hansen – who both departed the club during the winter break – will be given a fitting send-off in front of the home fans at the FC Bayern Campus. FC Bayern would like to say: Thank you and servus!

All the best, Mala!

Mala Grohs is set to leave FC Bayern Women after seven highly successful years. The Münster-born keeper moved to the Bavarian capital from VfL Bochum in 2019 and has made 95 appearances for the double winners since then, winning five Bundesliga titles, one DFB Cup and two Supercups.

Dear Mala, thank you very much and all the best for the future!

Danke and take care, Caro!

Carolin Simon has been pulling on the FC Bayern shirt since 2019, having joined the club from Lyon that same year. In 167 competitive appearances to date, the full-back with the magical left foot has scored 19 goals and shaped the Munich side’s playing style over the years. With FC Bayern Women, she has so far celebrated five Bundesliga titles, one DFB Cup win and two Supercup triumphs.

Dear Caro, thank you so much for your tireless commitment, your passion and your loyalty to FC Bayern – all the best for the future!

Thank you & all the Best, Georgia!

Georgia Stanway has been rocking the midfield for FC Bayern Women since 2022 – and in that time has become an absolutely key player. In 125 appearances to date, the England international has racked up an impressive 30 goals and shaped our team’s game with her energy, fighting spirit and relentless desire to win. The two-time European champion brought international class to Munich and won the Bundesliga in all four of her seasons here. That's on top of two Supercup victories and a DFB Cup triumph in 2025.

Dear Georgia, thank you for your energy, your mindset and all the special moments you’ve had in an FCB shirt – all the best for the future!

Servus and thank you, Natalia!

Natalia Padilla Bidas joined FC Bayern Women in 2023, having previously played for Servette FC Chênois Féminin. To gain match experience at the highest level, the Poland international was initially loaned out to 1. FC Köln for a season and then spent a further season on loan at Sevilla. The striker has made 17 appearances for FCB Women to date and has scored six goals. In that time, she has won both the Supercup and the Bundesliga with the Munich side.

Dear Natalia, thank you so much for your commitment, your goals and your efforts in the FC Bayern shirt – we wish you all the very best in your future endeavours!

All the best for the future, Kjetil!

Kjetil Lone has been part of the FC Bayern Women’s coaching staff as assistant coach since 2024 and in that time has shaped the day-to-day work on the pitch with great expertise, meticulousness and passion. With the team, the Norwegian celebrated the Bundesliga titles in 2024, 2025 and 2026, the DFB Cup win in 2025 and the Supercup triumphs in 2024 and 2025. With his eye for detail, calm manner and intuition, Lone helped develop the team and consistently keep them performing at the highest level.

Dear Kjetil, thank you very much for your outstanding work, your dedication behind the scenes and your loyalty to FC Bayern – we wish you all the best for the future!

Danke Lea & Tuva!

In addition to all the players leaving the Munich side at the end of the season, Lea Schüller and Tuva Hansen will also be given a send-off on Saturday. Schüller joined FC Bayern Women in 2020 and, with her clinical finishing, made a significant impact on our team’s attacking play. She scored 103 goals for the Munich side in 181 competitive appearances before moving to Manchester United at the end of December. Hansen won six trophies in three years with FC Bayern Women and has been plying her trade at West Ham United since January.

Dear Lea, dear Tuva, thank you very much for your hard work, your passion and your dedication to FC Bayern – we look forward to welcoming you back to the Campus this weekend!

FC Bayern Women hosted TSG Hoffenheim on Wednesday evening:

FC Bayern Women remain unbeaten after late comeback

Few footballers have faced more scrutiny than Viktor Gyokeres this season. Billed as the missing piece of the puzzle for Arsenal, it has been all eyes on Gyokeres since his arrival from Sporting CP last summer.

The modern world of social media spotlights means each and every individual error is magnified. Gyokeres had played only an hour ofPremier League football for Arsenal on the opening weekend before the tribalistic taunts arrived. Clunky. Cumbersome.

Two goals against Leeds got him up and running, but even that was followed by its own criticism. Flat-track bully. Penalty dependent. Gyokeres has heard it all.

But as Arsenal advanced to the Champions League final on Tuesday night, it was a result that provided vindication. Gyokeres was not on target at the Emirates, but he produced an all-round performance that looked very much like a £64m striker. He had earlier converted a nerveless penalty amid the whistles of the Metropolitano, to ensure Arsenal escaped Atletico Madrid level in the tie.

In between, Gyokeres scored twice as Arsenal eased past Fulham in the Premier League. With Manchester City breathing down their neck and the prospect of the title race being decided on goal difference, Gyokeres was there.

First, he met Bukayo Saka's searching cross to tap home, before planting a fantastic header past Bernd Leno. Momentum restored, City's subsequent slip at Everton leaves the title race in Arsenal's hands.

Arsenal great on Gyokeres: "He reminded me of a Haaland."

"The best I have seen him play. He reminded me of a (Erling) Haaland," former Arsenal player Paul Merson said onSky Sports.

"I thought the players trusted him a lot more. I have given him a lot of stick. If they win the league, he has been a brilliant buy. If they don't, maybe he hasn't.

"He was put in the team to make sure they beat the lesser teams, and he has done. You want your striker to get 20 goals, and he has done that.

"He was really good today and that is what they bought him for. Those performances haven't been there week in and week out, but if they are for the next four weeks, then money back."

Those goals were a continuation of Gyokeres' form since the turn of the year. He's scored ninePremier League goals in his last 12 appearances, and now has 21 for the campaign in all competitions.

It's not quite the frightening return seen in Portugal, but no one expected that. Only nine players across Europe have scored more goals than Gyokeres this season.

Among those who haven't, include one-time Arsenal targets Alexander Isak, Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, and Benjamin Sesko.

Gyokeres' 21 goals also make his the 10th highest-scoring debut season in Arsenal's history. Just two of those have come in the Premier League era, and only one this century.

It would be no surprise to see the Swede climb a few rungs on the ladder before the season's out.

Gyokeres might not be the perfect player. His style might not even suit the Arsenal aesthetic. But there's an argument that Mikel Arteta and his recruitment team did get it right. Arsenal needed something different, a goalscorer by trade, and Gyokeres is that. If Arsenal can get over the line in the Premier League and Champions League, this will be a transfer that was money well spent.

Novak Djokovic appears ready to make his first clay-court appearance of the season after sitting out every event over the past month.

While there have been several valid reasons for his absence, it’s clear he’s prioritising his physical condition ahead of Roland Garros.

With Carlos Alcaraz sidelined by injury, Djokovic’s path to a record 25th Grand Slam title could be more open than ever.

However, skipping competitive matches on clay may still have an impact, despite how comfortable he is on the surface. That notion was reinforced by what happened during a recent practice session against Arthur Fils.

Novak Djokovic takes pre-Italian Open hit

While the Frenchman is a tough matchup on any surface, he has stood out in particular this season for his performances on clay.

He started the year with a win in Barcelona and made it to the semi-finals in Madrid. There’s no reason to think he can’t put together another strong run in Rome.

Djokovic, wanting to measure himself against a rising talent, organised a practice set with the 21-year-old.

The result wasn’t encouraging for Djokovic, with Fils winning 6-2.

After his recent loss to Jannik Sinner, Fils was told what areas he needed to work on. Getting court time against someone like Djokovic will only help him address those gaps.

What Djokovic’s missed clay-court time could mean for him

There are two ways that Djokovic’s lack of tennis on clay can go.

On the one hand, the rest might be just what he needed, and whilst Rome might not result in a trophy, he could head to Paris completely refreshed and ready to attack for the title.

After all, having played at the top level of the sport for over two decades, Djokovic knows how to play on clay. There’s little new he would have learned this year.

Alas, the nuances of this surface are obvious, and the transition remains tricky no matter how experienced a player is.

If his physical condition has been recharged during his break from competition, it may still take some time before he adapts to clay again. And if that happens in Rome, it would leave him short on match practice ahead of Roland Garros.

Read more:

Regardless of the speculation and criticism this class of rookies received, they must compete immediately for a spot on the 53-man roster. That process starts tomorrow as the Houston Texans rookie minicamp kicks off tomorrow at Reliant Stadium (boy, it was fun to write that). The media will have their first look at Houston’s newest crop of rookies.

Based on the Post-Draft Houston Texans Roster Tiers, these rookies slot into every tier of this roster. Several will battle for starting roles, while multiple late round picks may not make the roster at all. That’s right, a four-year rookie contract is not a roster-guarantee on a robust and competitive squad. In fact, multiple late-round rookies were left off the initial roster and landed on the practice squad in past classes. Roster battles are one of the many storylines that begin to unfold during rookie minicamp. For the below players, their NFL story officially begins tomorrow.

Houston Texans 2026 Draft Class:

• Round 1, Pick 26, Keylan Rutledge, OG – Georgia Tech 
• Round 2, Pick 36, Kayden McDonald, DT – Ohio State
• Round 2, Pick 59, Marlin Klein, TE – Michigan
• Round 4, Pick 106, Febechi Nwaiwu, OG – Oklahoma
• Round 4, Pick 123, Wade Woodaz, LB – Clemson
• Round 5, Pick 141, Kamari Ramsey, DB – USC
• Round 6, Pick 167, Lewis Bond, WR – Boston College
• Round 7, Pick 243, Aidan Fisher, LB – Indiana

DT Kayden McDonald’s adjustment to the scheme in the Texans front

Second-rounder Kayden McDonald was pegged by draft analysts as primarily an NFL nose guard due to his size and usage at Ohio State. However, nose guard is rarely employed in DeMeco Ryans’ defense. A mismatch between player and scheme is not uncommon. It led to the Tennessee Titans trading 2024 second-round pick T’Vondre Sweat to the Jets. Hopefully, The Texans will have a clear vision for McDonald to utilize his immense size.

The transition from playing head up in front of the center to playing over the guard is not as simple as one assumes. Playing over the guard – aka the three-technique – requires quickness and lateral agility to sustain leverage over the B gap. At 6’2”, 326 pounds, he is quite definitively larger than any other DT on the roster. The best at the position can make the transition, but it’s up to Ryans and staff to lay the groundwork for that move to work out.

What positions will the two rookie offensive lineman play?

Both Febechi Nwaiwu and first-round pick Keylan Rutledge are herald for their versatility on the interior of the offensive line. It’s why the coaching staff valued them higher than any other team. However, it’s a tall order to teach not one, but two rookies multiple positions this early in their careers.

They both played primarily right guard in college, but that position is expected to be locked down by veteran Ed Ingram who received a top of the market deal in free agency to return to Houston.

The ‘open’ role on the o-line is center. Nwaiwu started two games in college and Rutledge has only practiced the position. Even with the lack of experience, will both rookies use the minicamp to practice center to compete for the starting role? Do they divvy up the reps to try out each combination? How this competition plays out will be extremely indicative of how offensive coordinator Nick Caley envisions the offensive line.

How steep is the learning curve for Marlin Klein?

All eyes will be on the unanimously criticized selection of tight end Marlin Klein. Considered a Day Three prospect, the fourth-year TE out of Michigan went 59th overall. GM Nick Caserio also let it slip that the Texans had multiple failed opportunities to trade back, indicating even they didn’t believe in his value at that selection. Regardless, he’s a second rounder who has to compete right away for a roster spot in a crowded room. Getting this rookie to speed is imperative to get the media and fans off his back early.

From Caserio on Texans All Access:

Reality is we were at 59, there were a few trade scenarios that were on the table for us to move back, we were close to making a trade to move back. We felt like if we moved back a few spots, still had a shot to possibly get the player. We picked Marlin cause that’s who we tee’d up as the next player.

Will Wade Woodaz be primarily a special teamer or the eventually replacement for Henry To’oTo’

One of the surprise picks in this class was Woodaz, an athletic converted safety who led Clemson’s defense through a tumultuous season. The linebacker room is extremely crowded. Woodaz will compete against multiple veterans quite who are quite familiar with the Texans’ system. Woodaz can’t simply rest on his laurels as a fourth-round rookie to make this roster. He has to prove his long-term worth as a rotational linebacker.

Even before considering his spot on the roster, Woodaz must beat out seventh-round rookie Aiden Fisher, who some analysts had rated higher than Woodaz before the draft. That competition starts tomorrow at rookie minicamp.

Can any of the undrafted rookies break through?

All eyes are on Noah Whittington to challenge the incumbent running backs British Brooks and Jawhar Jordan for a roster spot in this middling running back room. Jordan’s flash in the pan game against the Arizona Cardinals Week 15 won’t be enough to reserve his seat on the 53-man roster.

CB Collin Wright was NFL.com’s second best undrafted corner on the board. The Missouri City native is over 6-foot and has three years of starting experience at Stanford. He will compete in a weak backup cornerback room for a spot on the roster. Namely, him and last year’s UDFA breakout Alijah Huzzie will battle for the last spot in the secondary.

The Texans will have a PUNTER BATTLE on our hands. Jack Stonehouse from Syracuse will kick off the competition tomorrow after being signed this past week. He’ll compete against Kai Kroeger, who the Texans traded for with the Saints on March 10th.

There are plenty of reasons why the U.S. lost last year's Ryder Cup, but it didn't help that Team USA couldn't get on the same page. Or, rather, the same text chain.

We learned that on Wednesday as one of the team's vice captains, Kevin Kisner, told a hilarious tale on the latest episode of Barstool's Fore Play podcast. As Kisner revealed, captain Keegan Bradley set up a group chat once the American team was set. But one player, Bryson DeChambeau, didn't have an iPhone, which made sharing certain things with him difficult. (Isn't there always that one person on the chat with a different phone?)

RELATED: Rory McIlroy's movie cameo & a famed (and fun) golf artifact resurfaces

To Bryson's credit, he went out and got a new team-friendly phone, but that led to the next problem. Somehow, he managed to give Bradley the wrong number, and, well, take it away, Kiz!

"So some random person in America is getting all these comments from the Ryder Cup team," Kisner says in the clip. "So that was a hilarious start to our Ryder Cup."

Hilarious, indeed. Although, you know who's also laughing? That well-oiled machine known as Team Europe.

"I think the guy, if I remember correctly, like, 'Hey, I don't know what any of this is, but good luck to y'all,'" Kisner continues with the tale. "I think somebody even commented back, 'Whatever, Bryson, funny joke.' And then the guy was like, 'No, seriously, I don't know who these people are."

Let's hope Team USA gets this straightened out before next year's Ryder Cup in Ireland. Captain Jim Furyk already has his first task.

RELATED: J.R. Smith reveals insane golf trip planned with LeBron James

After four consecutive easy playoff wins, the Knicks needed some extra work to put away the Philadelphia 76ers in a 108-102 victory Game 2 victory on Wednesday night. 

Playing without star center Joel Embiid, the 76ers gave the Knicks a battle. 

New York withstood the absence of big man Mitchell Robinson, a weak three-point shooting night and foul trouble for Karl-Anthony Towns to pick up the win. A combined 70 points from Towns, Jalen Brunson, and OG Anunoby was a deciding factor in the victory, which gives the Knicks a 2-0 series lead. 

Now, the series scene shifts to Philadelphia.

Let’s navigate through some keys ahead of the game on Friday night's Game 3.

Paint production

Through two games, the Knicks have dominated in close, outscoring Philadelphia 114-62 in the paint.

Interior points were a huge factor on Wednesday night. 

New York won the paint scoring battle by a massive 56-30 margin, which helped make up for a cold shooting night. The Knicks shot 7-for-26 (26.9 percent) as a team from the three-point line. On nights when the three-ball isn't falling, dominating the paint can make up for it. 

It was remarkable this happened even with Robinson out due to illness, and the Knicks only having nine offensive rebounds against the 76ers. 

One main reason for finding easy scores around the basket is Towns. Having him operate as a playmaker out on the perimeter has opened up the paint for cutters. Towns had seven assists in Game 2, and has recorded at least six assists in each of the last five games.

If the Knicks can keep a healthy edge in interior scoring, it gives them a chance to win every game. 

Pivotal injuries 

While the Xs and Os are important, it’s the Jims and Joes on the floor who matter. Injuries will loom large in deciding how this series goes for both teams. Late in the fourth quarter of Game 2, OG Anunoby came up hobbling, and he was not available for the last two minutes and 30 seconds due to what seemed like a leg injury. 

Postgame, Knicks head coach Mike Brown did not have an update on Anunoby’s status. It’s a gloomy ending to what was another marvelous night from Anunoby, who recorded 24 points, five rebounds and four steals.  

Anunoby has been New York’s most consistent player during these eight playoff games and has made a great impact on both ends of the floor. He’s averaging 21.4 points and 7.5 rebounds during the postseason. It’s safe to say if he misses any time, that will have a significant effect on New York’s hopes to make a deep playoff run.

As mentioned before, Robinson missed the game with an illness. With Towns and Ariel Hukporti both picking up several fouls, the Knicks missed their rebounding center.

For Philadelphia, Embiid’s injury seems to be day-to-day, as he was ruled out earlier in the day before Game 2 with both hip and ankle injuries. Though he had trouble defending in Game 1, Embiid’s offense is valuable. The 76ers missed the big man’s ability to score and create offense in the half-court, especially during the fourth quarter, when they scored just 12 points on 4-for-19 from the floor.

Back in rhythm

If Anunoby is unavailable for the next game, the Knicks will need a group effort to replace his production. One player who could fill some of the void is Mikal Bridges. He’s averaged 19.7 points on 74 percent from the field over the last three games, including an effective 19 points and five rebounds in Game 2. 

Bridges has also had the unenviable task of checking 76ers point guard Tyrese Maxey. He and the Knicks as a team did a solid job on Maxey in Game 2, holding him to just 9-for-23 shooting. 

Bridges had been maligned for uneven play throughout his two seasons with the Knicks, and his disappointing first few games of this year’s postseason run, but it seems like he has pulled himself of the rut he was in. 

Now, the Knicks will likely need Bridges to contribute even more on both ends.

It’s been a long and complicated process, but the New York Giants 2026 draft class is set.

The Giants’ scouts and coaches have been working the phones since they made their final pick of the sixth round. This is when teams get to work recruiting undrafted free agents to sign with the Giants, and not one of the 31 other teams. Area scouts are leaning on the relationships they’ve built while traveling around their territory during the seasons, while position coaches are playing on the connections they made while working out and visiting with players during the draft process.

In a change from previous years, the Giants now have John Harbaugh. Harbaugh not only has a reputation as one of the best coaches in the world, but he’s also a charismatic and it doesn’t take him long to convince audiences of his earnest enthusiasm for the game of football.

We’ll get to see whether Harbaugh’s presence is a magnet for priority free agents, where they might have avoided an unstable coaching situation in previous years.

Undrafted wide receiver Beaux Collins made the Giants’ initial 53-man roster a year ago, and the Giants kept several on their practice squad throughout the year. Can the rookie free agents have a bigger impact this year?

The lists below are what has been reported, but will be incomplete.

UDFA tracker

Rumored Giants UDFA signings

• CB Thaddeus Dixon (Greg Auman)
• LS Ben Mann (Mike Garafolo)
• DT Anquin Barnes (Jordan Schultz)
• RB Damon Bankston (Aaron Wilson)
• K Dominic Zvada (Dominic Zvada)
• OT Ryan Schernecke (Kutztown Football)
• DL Ben Barten (Wisconsin Football)
• OL Dodji Dahoue (Jeremy Fowler)

Reported rookie camp invites

• QB Evan Simon (Jason Dumas)
• S Austin Jordan (TCU) | Zenitz
• QB Jeff Sims (Arizona State) | Sun Devil Football
• WR Keagan Johnson (New Mexico) | Albuquerque Journal
• C Josh Kreutz (Illinois) | (Brad Biggs)
• DT Grant Finley (Missouri Western) | Aaron Wilson
• DB Shawn Collins (Emory & Henry University) Aaron Wilson
• TE Johncarlos Miller II (Texas Tech) | Texas Tech Football
• RB Kevorian Barnes (TCU) | TCU Football
• RB Miles Davis (Utah) | Aaron Wilson
• P James Ferguson (Oregon) | James Crepea

Lost in the shuffle of an incredibly busy week in the Pickleball world, The Professional Pickleball Association Australian Tour had its third event of the year in Tweeds Head, just south of Gold Coast in New South Wales, Australia. It was a 250-level event, thus double the points of their regular PPA Australia tour stops.

Click here for the PickleballTournaments.com home page for the event, and click here for the brackets.

Let’s do a quick recap of the results, highlighting the winners, the upsets, and the top players who made waves. Thanks to the Atlanta Slam, a good chunk of the PPA-signed Asian and Australian players were in the states competing, and these draws almost entirely featured Australia-based players.

Men’s Pro Singles Recap

No. 6 Brian Tran took the No. 2, No. 3 and No. 4 seed on his way to his first PPA international title. Top seed Mitchell Hargraeves was upset in the semis but rallied for the Bronze.

Women’s Pro Singles Recap

No. 3 Selina Turulja beat No. 2 Kaitlynn Hart and then No. 1 Andie Dikosavljevic to claim her first singles gold on tour.

Mixed Pro Doubles Recap

Selina Turulja/Joseph Wild won the Mixed title as the No. 2 seeds, topping Sarah Burr & Zachary Grabovic in the final.

Men’s Pro Doubles Recap

Top seeds and Australian pickleball royalty Mitchell Hargreaves & Joseph Wild held serve and won the title, but were pushed along the way by some up-and-coming Australian men’s players.

Women’s Pro Doubles Recap

Top seeds Selina Turulja & Sarah Burr were pushed in the final by No. 3 seeds Talia Sanders/Bernadette Massih before prevailing 11-8 in the third for the title.

With the win, Turulja claims the Triple Crown. It is the first known triple crown on the PPA Australia circuit.

With this story published, the Medal Tracker is updated online. Please visit the “PPA Int’l" tab for a complete list of all prior Medal winners at all PPA A PPA sia & PPA Australia events.

Next up for the PPA Australia tour? According to my Master Pickleball Schedule, the next Aussie event is 6/24/26 weekend in Wellington.

Resources I rely on while covering the PPA International events:

• PPA Asia Home Page, their Facebook page, and Player Rankings
• PPA Australia Home Page, their Facebook page, and Player Rankings
• Pickleball Australia, an excellent source of information for all things PB down under
• Mydupr.com for DUPRs and player bios
• Medal Tracker XLS with all PPA Int’l medals on a separate tab

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Our series taking a quick look at each of the Bengals' draft picks continues with the second pick the Cincinnati Bengals made in the fourth round, Georgia wide receiver Colbie Young.

As always, Dane Brugler's "The Beast" draft guide will help guide us with these facts and bits of background information.

Gave everything he had to be part of College Football Playoff

A nod to his strong football character, Young did everything he could to rejoin his team for Georgia's run in the College Football Playoff. He suffered a fractured left fibula back in October and missed six games. While most draft prospects would have just ridden out the rest of the season and focused on the draft, Young went through a tough rehabilitation process and got himself back on the field for the playoffs. He caught three passes for 22 yards in Georgia's 39-34 loss to Ole Miss in the Sugar Bowl quarterfinal.

Only played 13 games across last two seasons

Between investigations and injuries, Young only appeared in 13 games between 2024 and 2025. We already touched on the leg injury in 2025. In October 2024, Young was arrested on misdemeanor charges of battery and assault. Due to the pending investigation, Young did not play in Georgia's final nine games of the season.

Ultimately, those charges were dropped as the accuser eventually retracted her statement. Young did plead "no contest" to a lesser charge of disorderly conduct in January 2025 and received 12 months of probation.

Brugler compares Young, stylistically, to Broncos WR Courtland Sutton

In his takeaway section on Young, Brugler had this to say about the Bengals' fourth-round pick: "Young is a big-framed athlete with fluid, long strides and the strong hands needed to consistently come down with the rock. He is an attractive option for an NFL team seeking a player who’s stylistically similar to Courtland Sutton."

Never bad to be compared to one of the better wide receivers in the league. Sutton has reached 1,000 receiving yards in each of his last two seasons with 15 total touchdowns. Young (6-4, 221) is also very similarly sized to Sutton (6-4, 216).

Young is one of 15 children

Young grew up in a big family. He is one of 15 children. He has seven brothers and seven sisters. His brother, Devin, played football at Maine and Sacred Heart. Young grew up in Binghamton, New York.

This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Colbie Young fast facts: Meet Bengals WR compared to one of NFL's best

Kelly Cup playoffs schedule 2026: Bracket, times, TV channels, live streams, scores for ECHL hockey postseason originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The drive for the Kelly Cup is underway. 

The 2026 ECHL playoffs feature four rounds of best-of-seven series to crown a champion. A new winner is guaranteed, as Trois-Rivières missed the playoffs this year after hoisting the Cup in 2025. 

When looking at this year's contenders, it's wise to start with the Florida Everblades, who won three consecutive Kelly Cups from 2022-24 before being dethroned last year. They posted the best record in the Eastern Conference during the regular season but still finished seven points behind the Kansas City Mavericks in the league standings.

Will they be the last two teams standing at the end, or will someone else break through? 

Here's everything you need to know to watch every game of the 2026 Kelly Cup playoffs.

Where to watch Kelly Cup playoffs 2026

• TV channel: N/A
• Live stream:FloHockey

The Kelly Cup playoffs will not air on traditional TV channels. Instead, viewers can watch every game of the ECHL postseason via FloHockey, which gives subscribers access to live streams, event replays and FloSports Originals.

Kelly Cup playoffs schedule, scores 2026

Watch every 2026 ECHL playoff game live on FloHockey. All series are best-of-seven. 

North Division Finals

No. 1 Wheeling Nailers vs. No. 2 Maine Mariners

* If necessary

South Division Finals

No. 1 Florida Everblades vs. No. 2 South Carolina Stingrays

* If necessary

Central Division Finals

No. 1 Fort Wayne Komets vs. No. 2 Toledo Walleye

* If necessary

Mountain Division Finals

No. 1 Kansas City Mavericks vs. No. 2 Allen Americans

* If necessary

North Division Semifinals

No. 1 Wheeling Nailers vs. No. 4 Reading Royals - Wheeling wins 4-1

No. 2 Maine Mariners vs. No. 3 Adirondack Thunder - Maine wins 4-3

South Division Semifinals

No. 1 Florida Everblades vs. No. 4 Savannah Ghost Pirates - Florida wins 4-0

No. 2 South Carolina Stingrays vs. No. 3 Atlanta Gladiators - South Carolina wins 4-2

Central Division Semifinals

No. 1 Fort Wayne Komets vs. No. 4 Indy Fuel - Fort Wayne wins 4-1

No. 2 Toledo Walleye vs. No. 3 Bloomington Bison - Toledo wins 4-2

Mountain Division Semifinals

No. 1 Kansas City Mavericks vs. No. 4 Tahoe Knight Monsters - Kansas City wins 4-0

No. 2 Allen American vs. No. 3 Idaho Steelheads - Allen wins 4-1

ECHL playoff teams 2026

Here are the 16 teams that qualified for this year's ECHL playoffs along with their NHL affiliates:

Related Links

• Latest NHL news and rumors
• Full NHL schedule, scores for 2025-26
• 2026 Calder Cup playoffs schedule, scores

It’s a headline that’s grammatically difficult to write. It’s a concept that’s rationally hard to stomach.

The Cincinnati Reds have lost back, to back, to back games to the Chicago Cubs to begin this four-game series, and they’ve been walked-off in all three of them. The last two of them have even come in extra-innings.

Wednesday’s will be the one that ends up the most difficult to stomach, at least for now. That’s assuming the depths to which this 6-game losing streak overall continues. After trailing early and often, the Reds got a standout performance from reliever Tejay Antone when they needed it most, the former fireballer back in the big leagues over two years after the most recent of his three Tommy John surgeries.

To say his inning had an ‘uplifting’ effect would be putting it mildly. There was pep in the step of the defense behind him, and it carried right over to their bats in the Top of the 9th inning. Spencer Steer socked a homer to lead the charge, JJ Bleday chipped in with a vital RBI single to tie the game, and Elly De La Cruz plated a pair with a sacrifice fly so deep into RF that it caused Seiya Suzuki to fall at the wall.

The Reds had roared back to claim a 6-4 lead, and they turned things over to their closer to close it out. Except, of course, closer Emilio Pagan had hurt his hamstring the previous night and been put on the shelf for at least a month, and instead Graham Ashcraft was summoned to do a job he’s got almost no experience doing before. He left a meaty pitch over the plate, Pete Crow-Armstrong lifted it to left-center, and it landed in the first row of the Wrigley Field stands for a game-tying homer…

A game-tying homer that would have literally only been a homer in Wrigley. Only Wrigley.

The Reds then failed to plate the Manfred Man in the Top of the 10th. Then, they walked the bases loaded intentionally in the Bottom of the 10th to set up more appealing matchups for pitcher Brock Burke only for Burke to then walk in the game’s winning run unintentionally and wrap things up.

Even after sleeping on the result, it’s hard to think this series of events won’t end up haunting the Reds over the course of the season. The NL Central is simply too good for it not to, and the Reds have already seen their electrifying (and razor’s edge) start to 2026 see them fall to 4th place within their own division thanks to this brutal run of form.

Something is going to need to change to bust them out of it. The sentiment surely seemed to suggest that would be Antone’s return, but not even that changed the tides. Getting Eugenio Suarez back soon may help, though it will also once again return the flaws and overlaps in the team’s roster construction.

The Reds are 20-17 on the season with over 3/4ths of the season left to play, yet the ship couldn’t possibly seem more leaky than it does right now.

Kyle Loftis death details: What we know about sudden passing of 1320 Video founder originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Kyle Loftis, the founder of 1320 Video, an automotive company with a special focus on drag racing, died Tuesday night.

Loftis was one of multiple drag-racing enthusiasts who contributed to the website and its various social media channels. As of May 6, 1320 Video boasts nearly 3 million Instagram followers and nearly 4 million YouTube subscribers.

Loftis founded the company in 2003. An avid photographer and videographer, Loftis shared shots he took of street racers on the internet. The outlet soon became a hit, striking a chord with drag-racing fans of all ages.

Here's what we know so far about Loftis' passing.

Kyle Loftis death details

Loftis died on Tuesday night. 1320 Video released a statement announcing its founder's death on Wednesday afternoon.

"We are extremely saddened to share that Kyle Loftis, the founder of 1320 Video, passed away last night. We are in a state of shock.

"Kyle's passion for motorsports inspired millions of people around the world and we will never forget what he has done to grow our beloved sport. Kyle was a beam of light at every gathering...his enthusiasm, kindness and creativeness was contagious."

WNBA roster cuts 2026: Tracking the most notable releases by team, from Madison Scott to Megan McConnell originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The WNBA's first tipoff always sneaks up on fans due to the little time between the Women's NCAA Tournament and the league's draft. This year, the league's first tipoff falls on May 8, with the Connecticut Sun and New York Liberty scheduled to kick things off.

No other sport moves this quickly from the draft to its regular season, and teams are forced to make quick decisions about their roster. The WNBA also added two expansion teams this year in the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo. With another couple of teams in the mix, the league could see a sizeable amount of roster movement as players are waived and relocated prior to the 2026 season beginning. 

Which WNBA players failed to make the cut in 2026? The Sporting News details the rookies on opening day rosters, as well as the players who fell just short before the season tips off on May 8.

SN's WNBA HQ: Live WNBA scores | Updated WNBA standings | Full WNBA schedule

What does it mean to be waived?

Every WNBA team is required to cut down the size of its roster by the start of the regular season on May 8. Under the new collective bargaining agreement, teams are allowed an increased minimum roster size of 12 players, compared to the traditional 11 players, plus two more roster spots for developmental players, and salary cap exceptions for injured or pregnant players. 

In order to follow these requirements, teams must cut players from their rosters, which means sending players to the league's waiver system.

Once a player is waived, the team removes her from the roster and places her on the waiver wire. In the ensuing 48 hours, other teams can claim a player's contract. If multiple teams submit a claim, then the league will award the contract to the team with the highest waiver priority. This is similar to what the NFL does. 

If one of the 15 WNBA teams does not claim a player off waivers, she gains the "cleared" status and moves on to become an unrestricted free agent. After that, she can negotiate with a new team and sign a new contract there.

WNBA roster cut updates

Wednesday, May 6

5:10 p.m. - Two days after being let go from the Chicago Sky, Hailey Van Lith will be signing with the Connecticut Sun, according to Alexa Philippou. Van Lith was put on waivers after the team made the decision, which was based on a "style of play preference." Last season, the Sun went 11-33 and finished second-to-last in the Eastern Conference.

2:56 p.m. - After being waived on Sunday by the Golden State Valkyries, rookie Marta Suarez is signing a developmental contract with the Phoenix Mercury, according to Sabreena Merchant. Suarez was involved in a draft night trade after Golden State originally drafted Flau’jae Johnson with the No. 8 pick, but traded her to move down and select Suarez. 

1:46 p.m. - The Indiana Fever announced their first batch of waives during the offseason, with Megan McConnell leaving the franchise. The sister of Indiana Pacers guard TJ McConnell is one of three players to be waived, with Jessica Timmons and Kayana Traylor also out, per Underdog.

Tuesday, May 5

12:13 p.m. - Madison Scott has been waived by the Washington Mystics, per Yahoo Sports. Scott was the No. 14 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft and had signed with the team in September. In two games this preseason, Scott gathered a rebound and two steals for her team.

Monday, May 4

12:28 p.m. - Despite beginning to improve during her career, the Chicago Sky has announced the team is waiving Hailey Van Lith. According to Kendra Andrews, Chicago's decision was based on the team's “style of play preference.” Van Lith is in active conversation with several different teams.

Sunday, May 3

6:07 p.m. - The Golden State Valkyries announced their rounds of waives, one of those being No. 16 overall pick Marta Suarez. The team originally drafted Flau’jae Johnson with the No. 8 pick, but traded her on draft night to move down and select Suarez. The former 2025 NCAA champion should receive some attention from other teams.

WNBA players waived before 2026 season, by team

Here's a full list of the players waived ahead of the 2026 regular season. 

This section will be updated. 

Atlanta Dream

• Bella Fontleroy
• Laila Phelia
• Sacha Washington
• Paige Robinson

Chicago Sky

• Hailey Van Lith
• Latasha Lattimore
• Tonie Morgan
• Maddy Westbeld
• Aicha Coulibaly
• Jordan Hobbs
• Megan Nestor
• Sidney Cooks

Connecticut Sun

• Harmoni Turner
• Kyla Oldacre
• Mamignan Toure
• Madison Hayes
• Taylor Bigby

Dallas Wings

• Lindsay Allen
• Grace Berger
• Amy Okonkwo
• Dulcy Fankam Mendjiadeu
• Costanza Verona
• Rayah Marshall
• Kyla Oldacre
• Lazaria Spearman
• Grace Sullivan
• Shyanne Sellers

Golden State Valkyries

• Miela Sowah
• Ndjakalenga Mwenentanda
• Cate Reese
• Marta Suarez
• Mariella Fasoula
• Ashlon Jackson
• Caroline Ducharme
• Bailey Maupin

Indiana Fever

• Megan McConnell
• Jessica Timmons
• Kayana Traylor

Las Vegas Aces

• Jordan Obi

Los Angeles Sparks

• Amelia Hassett
• Sevgi Uzun
• Julie Vanloo

Minnesota Lynx

• Aubrey Griffin
• Lani White
• Jade Masogayo
• Reigan Richardson
• Amaya Battle
• Sakima Walker
• Ra Shaya Kyle
• Jaylyn Sherrod
• Saylor Poffenbarger
• Liatu King

New York Liberty

• Ny'Ceara Pryor
• Ashley Owusu

Phoenix Mercury

• Jaime Nared
• Aisha Sheppard
• Maggie Doogan
• Yarden Garzon
• Kalani Brown
• Shay Ciezki
• Morgan Maly
• Lauren Jensen
• Jillian Alleyne
• Ashten Prechtel
• Kara Dunn

Portland Fire

• Peyton Williams

Seattle Storm

• Taina Mair
• Elle Ladine
• Jalyn Brown
• Beatrice Mompremier

Toronto Tempo

• Elizabeth Balogun
• Dara Mabrey
• Maddison Rocci
• Kristy Wallace

Washington Mystics

• Kamaria McDaniel
• Mya Hollingshed
• Madison Scott
• Christeen Iwuala
• Nyla Harris

Former France youth international Maxime Esteve (23) is being linked with a move away from Burnley, following the club’s relegation back to the EFL Championship.

Esteve has become a key figure at Turf Moor since joining Burnley, initially on loan from formative club Montpellier HSC back in 2024. That deal was made permanent and, despite the Lancashire club’s immediate return to the second tier, the defender has continued to perform.

Two Premier League sides in for Burnley defender

His performances have caught the eyes of Bayer Leverkusen, as per a report from Sky Sports. Burnley, given their relegation from the Premier League, are open to discussing a deal this summer, the publication adds.

There are two other unnamed Premier League clubs in for the Frenchman. Tottenham Hotspur have previously been linked. Esteve has been an ever-present in the side, managed by Scott Parker until recent days. He has started all Premier League games bar three this season.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle

Michael Carrick will take his Manchester United side to Sunderland on Saturday chasing a third-place finish in the Premier League.

In advance of the game, the interim manager spoke to the media and was asked about a number of key issues.

Any news on the permanent job?

The first question was: “With Champions League qualification secured and the implication that that can have on recruitment through the summer, I just wonder now, how quickly is clarity needed and what clarity is needed on your own future at the club?”

Carrick replied: “Clarity is important. I think moving forward, it’s come right at the end of the season where I think we finished strong, put ourselves in a good position, and obviously the situation of of my role and what it looks like moving forward, I think it’s just the natural time. It was always spoke about towards the end of the season, if not the end of the season. So nothing’s really changed, to be honest.”

“Why hasn’t it changed though?”, the reporter asked. “I’m just thinking because you have got that Champions League qualification sorted out now.”

The boss answered: “Yeah, we have, but it’s a matter of days ago and we’ve got eyes on finishing the season strongly as well. So I understand the question. I understand the timing of it. But from my point of view, right at this stage, it’s just putting the boys in a place to finish the season strongly. And then, as I’ve said all along, and I’m calm about it, it’ll get sorted out when it’s going to get sorted out. Some of it’s out of my hands, so we’ll see what happens.”

The follow-up question was: “Do you have a view of what happens further down the line though? Because I’m thinking Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville were debating the other night who has the brighter future, and the point was raised that the squad now has to deal with playing games every 3 or 4 days. So what work do you feel is perhaps needed on the squad, or is it well equipped enough at the moment to deal with that jump in in the schedule that they will face next season?”

He responded: “Yeah, there’s definitely different challenges within that. Largely the boys are used to playing more games than we have done over a period of time, over a number of years, and I think this has been a little bit unique in many ways of not being in the cup competitions and extended period of no games and things, and we’ve had to adjust a little bit, so there’s going to be certainly be a change and a shift with it.”

“I think that’s just part of the evolving the squad and growing the squad and a little bit more experience, some younger players, more experienced, and it’ll be a natural step to take that one. And as a club, we’ll face that and face it head-on.”

More to follow as the conference continues … please refresh regularly.

Featured image Warren Little via Getty Images

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With the 2026 college football season quickly approaching, the Texas Longhorns will spend the summer getting ready for a national title run. As they round into form, they will also have a piece of the future watching in Jackson Cook. The 2027 recruit has locked in an official visit for June 19-21. 

Currently, the Austin naive is ranked as the 73rd best interior offensive lineman in his class by 247Sports. They also rank Cook as the 138th-best player from Texas. That high praise is partly why head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff were excited to secure a commitment from the Austin Westlake High star. 

🤘🏼No place like Texas. @TexasFootball@TexasRecruiting@KJJFlood@CoachZoloty@CoachD_Gatewood@CoachSark@JasonMcEndoo@CoachRosch@CoachTSalazar@CoachJLukepic.twitter.com/lWQAZvJyMH

— Jackson Cook-OL🤘🏻 (@JDC2027) May 6, 2026

Before committing to the Longhorns, Cook received offers from some of the top programs in the country. That includes Arizona, Baylor, South Carolina, Texas A&M, UCLA, Kansas State, and Houston. While that is not an easy list of programs to go to battle with, Texas came out the winner. 

Although the start of Cook's college career is still over a year away, he is part of a recruiting class that is receiving high praise. He will get to play alongside four-star recruits such as Easton Royal, Cameron Hall, Derwin Field, Karnell James, and Keyon Hemphill-Woods. They will be joined by three-star prospects Noah Roberts, JT Geraci, Cade Haug, and Ty Knutson. That group is ranked 14th best in the country. 

Jackson Cook #74
Jr. Season Class of 2027
🏈 (36) Career Varsity Starts
🥞 (72) Pancake Blocks Jr. Year
🏈 True (5) Spot Offensive Lineman
🤼 Wrestling 285 lbs Weight Class Jr. Year
🏈 @whschapsfb Go Chaps!@Westlake_Nation@CoachTSalazar@CoachRosch@CoachJLukepic.twitter.com/HHlPIlt49n

— Jackson Cook-OL🤘🏻 (@JDC2027) December 9, 2025

At the moment, Cook is projected to be tasked with protecting Dia Bell. The Florida native was one of the top quarterbacks in the 2026 class and is expected to be the one calling the shots under center after Arch Manning's run comes to an end. If Cook can put Bell in a position to succeed, then the Longhorns offense will be hard to stop. 

While the Longhorn faithful will have to be patient to see Cook in action, he will get a glimpse of what his future looks like in June when he makes the trip to Austin. 

This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: OL commit Jackson Cook locks in his official visit with Longhorns

The Boston Bruins know what they are prioritizing this summer. 

It starts with one of the things they lack, and something that ultimately cost them their first-round series against the Buffalo Sabres. The Bruins’ front office held their end-of-season press conference at the TD Garden yesterday, and while Charlie Jacobs was happy with the state of the team, Don Sweeney and Cam Neely know there is work to be done.

In the minor leagues, the Providence Bruins have their backs up against the wall tonight as they fight to force a winner-take-all Game 5. The Maine Mariners are moving on to the second round after a 3-1 win last night, avoiding a blown 3-1 series lead.

Elsewhere around the league, the Sabres opened their second-round series with a win, and the Ducks picked up a road win and evened their Round 2 matchup with the Golden Knights. Trade talks have started in New Jersey, but not for a specific player, but for another valuable asset. The NHL also announced the three finalists for the Selke.  

And details of the 2026-27 salary cap were officially communicated to the teams yesterday.  

Happy Thursday, catch up on Bruins and league news in today’s Daily Bean:

Boston Bruins

SPEED & SKILL: Bruins alternate governor/CEO Charlie Jacobs, president Cam Neely, and general manager Don Sweeney met with the media for the end-of-season press conference yesterday. Sweeney and Neely made clear one thing: they are looking for speed and skill. 

Cam Neely also said that the Bruins did not have a 1C.

If you want more from the press conference, check out my 𝕏 feed for some more clips and quotes. There will also be more Boston Hockey Now coverage from yesterday.

WICKED BOSTON SHOW (via YouTube): I joined good friend Cam Stuart yesterday before the press conference to talk about the draft lottery, the 2027 vs. 2028 pick conditions, what the Bruins will do with the pick, and a long-shot trade target. 

Prospects Update

PROVIDENCE: The P-Bruins, the AHL’s best team, are facing elimination tonight against the Springfield Thunderbirds (STL). They dropped Game 3 in overtime on Tuesday night, and they will look to save their season at the MassMutual Center tonight. 

The game gets underway at 7:05 PM today and can be streamed on FloHockey.tv. 

• Game 1: at Providence – SPR wins 3-2
• Game 2: at Providence – PRO wins 2-1
• Game 3: at Springfield – SPR wins 3-2 (OT)
• Game 4: at Springfield – Thursday, May 7, 7:05 PM
• Game 5*: at Providence – Saturday, May 9, 7:05 PM

ICYMI: After Game 3, Darren Dreger worked for an explanation on the overtime winner, and the AHL determined Zach Dean’s game-winner to be offside. The league is adopting a review process next season.

MAINE: The Maine Mariners are off to Round 2! They avoided blowing a 3-1 series lead and beat the Adirondack Thunder (NJD) in seven games. Nick Anderson scored the game-winning goal with 3:50 to play in the third period, and Shawn Element scored the empty-netter in a 3-1 win.

Maine Mariners (video via YouTube): Here are the Game 7 highlights. 

They will play the Wheeling Nailers (PIT) in the North Division Finals. 

• Game 1: at Wheeling – Friday, May 8, 7:10 PM 
• Game 2: at Wheeling – Saturday, May 9, 7:10 PM
• Game 3: at Maine – Monday, May 11, 7:00 PM
• Game 4: at Maine – Tuesday, May 12, 7:00 PM
• Game 5*: at Maine – Wednesday, May 13, 7:00 PM
• Game 6*: at Wheeling – Saturday, May 16, 7:10 PM
• Game 7*: at Wheeling – Monday, May 18, 7:10 PM

NHL News & National Hockey Now

Montreal Hockey Now: The Buffalo Sabres opened the second round with a Game 1 home win over the Montreal Canadiens last night. The Sabres scored four goals on 16 shots, only recording one in the third period as Montreal pushed to climb back from a two-goal deficit. 

BarDown (video via 𝕏): Ahead of the game, Lindy Ruff cracked a joke about Marco Sturm’s “bigger, stronger, and more physical” comments when asked if the Sabres have a physical advantage over the Canadiens. 

NHL.com: The Ducks picked up a 3-1 win on the road last night in Las Vegas, led by a 21-save performance from Lukas Dostal and goals from Beckett Sennecke, Leo Carlsson, and Jansen Harkins’ empty-netter. 

Mark Stone scored with 5.6 seconds left to snap Dostal’s shutout; the Ducks have not recorded one this season. 

PLAYOFFS:

• A1 – Sabres (1) vs. A3 – Canadiens (0)
• M1 – Hurricanes (2) vs. M3 – Flyers (0)
• C1 – Avalanche (2) vs. C3 – Wild (0)
• P1 – Golden Knights (1) vs. P3 – Ducks (1)

New Jersey Hockey Now: The New Jersey Devils are selecting with the 12th overall pick at the 2026 draft in Buffalo. James Nichols writes that the “Devils should aggressively trade” the pick, especially now that they did not move up in the lottery. 

ESPN: The NHL salary cap is officially jumping to $104 million, the league informed teams of cap floors and maximum salaries yesterday. It will be a jump of $8.5 million, and the Bruins are projected to have $16,439,167 of cap space. 

The $104 million has been known; the details were communicated to teams yesterday.

NHL.com: Anthony Cirelli (TBL), Brock Nelson (COL), and Nick Suzuki (MTL) were named finalists for the Selke Award yesterday, given to the “forward voted best to excel in the defensive aspects of the game.” 

Aleksander Barkov (FLA) has won the award in the last two seasons. He did not play this year due to an ACL and MCL injury. 

Today’s NHL Schedule

Hurricanes at Flyers, Game 3 – 8:00 PM (US: TNT, HBO; CA: CBC, SN, TVA)

FOLLOW @JACKSTUDLEY13 ON 𝕏  | FOLLOW @BOSHockeyNow ON 𝕏

The post Daily Bean: P-Bruins Facing Elimination, Mariners Advance, Salary Cap Officially Set appeared first on Boston Hockey Now.

Manchester United boss Michael Carrick has been speaking to the media before Saturday's Premier League game against Sunderland at Stadium of Light (kick-off 15:00 BST).

Here are the key lines from his news conference:

• The United interim head coach said securing Champions League football next season "is a really good step" for the club, but it's "not the end at all" so they won't be downing tools for the remaining three games.
• On what their motivation is now: "Pride, responsibility, playing for this great club, great supporters and really good togetherness in the group. It's about improving and evolving all the time."
• Carrick insisted "nothing has really changed" on where his future lies, but "clarity is important." He added: "I've said all along that I'm calm about it and it will get sorted out when it gets sorted out."
• He praised his squad for their strong "togetherness" despite some players having significantly less game time this season.
• On opponents Sunderland, who are pushing for a European spot: "It's really tight. They've had a fantastic season. It's not easy to come and get promoted and stay in the league, so to be in the top half and within touching distance of Europe is full credit to the season they've had."
• He said he has "not forgotten" playing the Black Cats and their supporters' reaction to United missing out on the Premier League title to Manchester City in 2012. Carrick said: "It's in the past, but it definitely sticks in the memory."

Listen to live commentary of Sunderland v Manchester United on BBC Radio 5 Live from 15:00 BST on Saturday.

Follow all of Thursday's Premier League news conferences and the rest of the day's football news

Got a question about Man Utd? Get in touch here and we'll seek answers from our experts

The next big date on the annual NFL calendar is just around the corner.

The release of the schedule for the 2026-27 season.

Say what you want about this annual tradition — it is just a list of dates for games we already know are going to be played thanks to the league’s scheduling formula — but it has become a bedrock event in the offseason. From schedule release videos that often highlight the creative minds in each team’s social media departments, to the days (if not weeks) of content that follows, this is the next big stop on the road to Super Bowl LXI.

So to help set that road, here is what we know so far, what to expect when the schedule drops, games we are already looking forward to, and more.

When will the 2026 schedule be released?

As of Thursday, the NFL has not released a specific date for the announcement of the 2026 regular-season schedule. Traditionally, the league has targeted mid-May for the unveiling, leading many to believe the week of May 11 will be the timeframe.

However, on a recent podcast appearance Mike North, the NFL’s Vice President of Broadcast Planning, said it could be later.

“Most fans know full well that the schedule comes out in mid-May now,” North said on the It’s Always Game Day in Buffalo podcast. “That’s what we’ve done the last five or six years. That’s sort of our target. Is there any magic to May 12, 13, 14? No. Is there any real downside to [May] 19, 20 or 21? No.”

What we know about the 2026 NFL schedule

Here is what we know right now, days ahead of the release of the 2026 NFL schedule.

NFL Kickoff Game

The annual game featuring the defending Super Bowl Champions will again start the NFL season. However, this year that game will be pushed up one day and be played on a Wednesday, not a Thursday. More on that in a moment, but the Seattle Seahawks will honor their victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX on Wednesday, September 9, at Lumen Field.

Who they will host remains to be seen, but we have some ideas.

NFL International Games

This year, the NFL will feature a record nine international games. We know the exact dates for two of these games.

• San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams

The first international game on the 2026 schedule will be played between the Los Angeles Rams and the San Francisco 49ers, and is the reason the Seahawks will begin their season on a Wednesday. The game between the Rams and the 49ers will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne, Australia, and be the first NFL regular season game played on that continent.

Due to the time difference, that game will kickoff at 10:35 a.m. local time on Friday, September 11, meaning it will start at 8:35 p.m. Eastern on Thursday, September 10.

• Dallas Cowboys vs. Baltimore Ravens

The NFL returns to Rio de Janeiro in Brazil in late September, when the Baltimore Ravens square off with the Dallas Cowboys on September 27 at the Maracanã Stadium.

In addition, there will be three games played in London, with the Jacksonville Jaguars playing in two of those. Jacksonville will be the host team for a game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and then for a game at Wembley Stadium. The Washington Commanders will also be the host team for the third game played in London, also at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The Detroit Lions will be the home team for a game played at Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany.

The Atlanta Falcons will be the home team for a game played at Bernabéu in Madrid, Spain.

A trip to Australia is not the only time the 49ers will need their passports. San Francisco will also be the home team for a game played at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City in December.

Finally, the NFL is headed to France for the first time, with the New Orleans Saints hosting the league’s first game ever in Paris.

NFL holiday games in 2026

As we have seen in recent years, the NFL is finding ways to become part of your holiday schedule.

Thanksgiving

Both the Cowboys and the Lions will host their traditional afternoon games on Thanksgiving Day. In addition, there will be a primetime game on Thanksgiving Night. Furthermore, there will be a game played on Black Friday, at least one game that is. According to reports the league is considering the possibility of having a Black Friday doubleheader.

In addition, the league is also “actively looking” at a game on Thanksgiving Eve, a popular night at your local watering hole when you are back home with the family.

Christmas

Once again, the Christmas Day tripleheader is back, with the first two games on Netflix while the prime-time game will be broadcast by FOX.

We’ve got some thoughts on what games we want to see on the holiday for you as well.

Games to circle

While we do not know when these games will be played, we know they will be circled on the calendar once the dates and times are announced.

Denver Broncos at New England Patriots

An. AFC Championship Game rematch, only this time we can expect Bo Nix will be part of the proceedings.

Los Angeles Rams at Seattle Seahawks

These two teams have given us some epic games recently, particularly the games in Seattle.

Buffalo Bills at Kansas City Chiefs

As long as this game is slated for late in the season — when we can expect Patrick Mahomes to be back and healthy — it should live up to expectations.

New England Patriots at Seattle Seahawks

Hopefully the rematch of Super Bowl LX will be. better than the original.

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens

Whether it is in Baltimore or in Pittsburgh, he first meeting between these two teams will be the first time the AFC North rivals meet without Mike Tomlin or John Harbaugh on the sidelines in almost two decades.

Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals

Trey Hendrickson back in Cincinnati. Should be fun.

Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears

It is always fun when these historic rivals get together, but the three games between these two teams are going to be big ones in 2026, particularly after their three meetings a year ago.

And how Chicago came back to win their two games at Soldier Field, first in the regular season and then in the playoffs.

Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks

A potential NFC Championship Game preview, and our favorite for the NFL Kickoff Game this year.

Los Angeles Rams at Philadelphia Eagles

Another clash of playoff teams from a year ago. Will A.J. Brown still be an Eagle for this game … or could he be returning as a member of the Rams?

The CONMEBOL Press Department informs that the accreditation process is now open on the CONMEBOL Media Hub for media professionals interested in covering the CONMEBOL LIBERTADORES FUTSAL 2026, which will take place from May 24 to 31, 2026, in the city of Carlos Barbosa/RS, Brazil.

The deadline for submitting applications begins on May 7 at 10:00 a.m. (Paraguay time) and ends at 6:00 p.m. (Paraguay time) on May 14. Accreditation requests submitted after the deadline will not be considered.

How to apply for accreditation?

Each journalist, cameraman, and photographer wishing to obtain accreditation for CONMEBOL competitions must have a previously approved profile on the CONMEBOL Media Hub, the official channel for submitting applications. The registration form is available at: https://mediahub.conmebol.com

Each professional with an approved registration on the CONMEBOL Media Hub must log in to the CONMEBOL Media Hub platform, access the "Accreditation" section, click on CONMEBOL LIBERTADORES FUTSAL 2026, and complete their information.

SAD (Supplementary Access Devices) requests: Tribune and Mixed Zone

The next step after completing the accreditation request is to access "SAD Application" to select access to the Tribune and Mixed Zone, in the corresponding section below "Accreditation."

IMPORTANT: Neither approval of registration on the CONMEBOL Media Hub nor submission of the accreditation request constitutes, under any circumstances, confirmation that spots have been granted, as they are subject to availability.

RESPONSES TO REQUESTS

Accreditation applicants will be duly informed of the decision through the email associated with their registration on the CONMEBOL Media Hub, not before May 17, 2026.

The status of SAD requests must be checked by each applicant by accessing their profile on the CONMEBOL Media Hub with their email and password.

MEDIA OUTLET QUOTAS BY VENUE

CONMEBOL will determine seat allocation taking into account seat availability, the type of Media Outlet, and the role of the professionals.

+ Radio/web radio: 3 (three) journalists per Media Outlet.

+ Print media (printed outlets): Up to 2 (two) journalists per Media Outlet.

+ Print media (websites and social media): 1 (one) journalist per Media Outlet.

+ Photographers for print and web media: Up to 2 (two) per Media Outlet.

+ NRH Channel (Non-Rights Holders): 1 (one) journalist and 1 (one) cameraman per Media Outlet.

+ International agencies: Up to 2 (two) journalists and 2 (two) photographers per agency.

If you have any questions, please send an email to: flavia.domingues@tfw.com.br

(Flavia Domingues, responsible for COL press accreditation).

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

KTM's leading MotoGP factory rider Pedro Acosta has told media his RC16 is "spectacular in the rain" ahead of a French Grand Prix that has a literal cloud hanging over it. 

"In the rain, this bike is spectacular," Acosta declared in his native Spanish on Thursday at Le Mans. "It's the best conditions [for] the bike, in the water."

That bodes well given the weather forecast in that part of France, which suggests not only a repeat of last year's wet Sunday race but also a partially wet Saturday. 

But while rain may be Acosta's best chance of breaking his grand prix victory duck, both KTM factory riders were optimistic that the Austrian marque would be more competitive in the dry than it has been so far this season. 

Acosta and his team-mate Brad Binder pointed to progress made at the Jerez test that followed the last round of the championship in Spain. They will be looking for a dry Friday in order to confirm the apparent step in a comparable situation.

"I'm quite excited to get started here," said Binder. "After the test in Jerez we found some things that felt a little bit better. So [it will be] pretty cool to see if it works well here."

Binder missed a golden opportunity to win the sprint last time out at Jerez, when he crashed out of the effective lead after the rain came down. But while rain has been a factor in some of his previous successes, he reiterated that he wouldn't be relying on that in France following the latest updates. 

"I'm not worried about what the conditions throw at us," said the South African. "I think we can do a good job either way.

"One area we improved was a little bit more just the calmness of the bike, especially on throttle. We could keep the grip a little bit better and, yeah, we did something to be a little bit cleaner in the braking areas. So I still wasn't able to go super fast with it, but yeah, it felt better.

"So yeah, [I'm] quietly confident for this weekend and hopefully we can have a good one."

Pedro Acosta, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing

In his English media briefing, Acosta echoed Binder's sentiments regarding the progress made at Jerez.

"KTM has brought some updates from the Jerez test. It's quite important [that] we do some runs in the dry.

"I think [the updates are] nothing visual, to be honest. These are small things that will help for turning and to be more stable because at Jerez I suffered. 

"I knew that I was going to suffer [at Jerez], but I was not expecting [to suffer] that much. It looks like in the test everything came back to the point and everything started to work quite OK."

Acosta has gathered two podiums so far this season, in Thailand and the USA, as well as victory in the Buriram sprint. Binder has generally continued to battle in relation to his colleague, with a best result of seventh. 

Additional reporting by German Garcia Casanova

Guenther Steiner puzzled by MotoGP bikes sitting out sessions without stand-in riders

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Calder Cup playoffs schedule 2026: Bracket, times, TV channels, live streams, scores for AHL hockey postseason originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The drive for the Calder Cup is on. 

The American Hockey League playoffs will once again feature 23 teams fighting it out to take home the trophy, and a new champion is guaranteed in 2026. A year after winning their first AHL championship, the Abbotsford Canucks failed to make the playoffs this time around. 

While the race for the title appears wide open, the Providence Bruins and Grand Rapids Griffins enter the postseason as the favorites to clash in the final after posting the best records in their respective conferences and earning first-round byes along with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Ontario and Laval. 

Who will hoist the trophy in 2026? Here's everything you need to know to watch every game.

Where to watch Calder Cup playoffs 2026

• TV channel: N/A
• Live stream:AHLTV on FloHockey

The Calder Cup playoffs will not air on traditional TV channels. Instead, viewers can watch every game of the AHL postseason via AHLTV on FloHockey, which gives subscribers access to live streams, event replays and FloSports Originals.

Calder Cup playoffs schedule, scores 2026

Watch every 2026 AHL playoff game live on FloHockey

Atlantic Division Semifinals (Best-of-5)

No. 1 Providence vs. No. 6 Springfield

No. 2 Wilkes-Barre/Scranton vs. No. 5 Hershey

North Division Semifinals (Best-of-5)

No. 1 Laval vs. No. 4 Toronto

No. 2 Syracuse vs. No. 3 Cleveland - Cleveland wins 3-1

Central Division Semifinals (Best-of-5)

No. 1 Grand Rapids vs. No. 4 Manitoba

No. 2 Chicago vs. No. 3 Texas - Chicago wins 3-2

Pacific Division Semifinals (Best-of-5)

No. 1 Ontario vs. No. 4 Coachella Valley

No. 2 Colorado vs. No. 3 Henderson

Atlantic Division First Round (Best-of-3)

No. 3 Charlotte vs. No. 6 Springfield - Springfield wins 2-1

No. 4 Bridgeport vs. No. 5 Hershey - Hershey wins 2-0

North Division First Round (Best-of-3)

No. 4 Toronto vs. No. 5 Rochester - Toronto wins 2-1

Central Division First Round (Best-of-3)

No. 4 Manitoba v. No. 5 Milwaukee - Manitoba wins 2-1

Pacific Division First Round (Best-of-3)

No. 2 Colorado vs. No. 7 San Diego - Colorado wins 2-0

No. 3 Henderson vs. No. 6 San Jose - Henderson wins 2-0

No. 4 Coachella Valley vs. No. 5 Bakersfield - Coachella Valley wins 2-1

Related Links

• Latest NHL news and rumors
• Full NHL schedule, scores for 2025-26
• 2026 Kelly Cup playoffs schedule, scores

As for rule changes to aid the defense, some of what the players asked for included more lenient rules for using their hands while defending. Some were about rim protection — allowing defenders to take the ball off the rim as they do under FIBA rules. "I would make defense legal again,” one player said. “Let basketball be basketball. Let's tilt it one way, because that's what we think people want to see. Let's just let basketball be basketball. It's a beautiful game." “I'd make the game a little bit more physical,” another player said. “A lot of the foul baiting stuff and everything wouldn't really be as useful.”

New York Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Anonymous NBA player poll: 'Make defense legal again'

“He has not expressed those frustrations to me,” Stevens said of Jaylen Brown. “We’ve been here 10 years together, and I do think that, obviously, I love JB, and everybody around here loves JB, and I think just like any of our other guys, as we get to the end of the season, I’ll be here, and my door is always open. And if anybody ever wants to come in and talk about it, and talk about their team, their place, whatever the case may be, I’m all ears. “I think it’s really important to be available,” Stevens said. “So I certainly am, and none of that has been expressed to me.” In this case, it’s possible Stevens is doing some dancing. But if Brown hasn’t spoken directly to Stevens — or if he’s using his representation to do the talking — then, well, the door is open. There’s lots that can be read into that comment, such as: Brown has no interest in sharing another Celtics season as part of a 1-2 punch alongside Jayson Tatum.

New York Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: But if Brown hasn’t spoken directly to Stevens — or if …

As it stands, Dybantsa is the most likely top pick in any lottery scenario. He would be an extraordinarily clean match for Washington, however. The Wizards are expected to be competitive next season after trading for Trae Young and Anthony Davis for little cost, other than their large contracts. They lost 26 of their final 27 games and ensured they'll pick within the top five in this draft.

ESPN

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The Wizards are expected to be competitive next season …

What I'm hearing on the Wizards: The team has been mired in a protracted rebuild that has spanned multiple front offices and head coaches, and Washington hasn't finished above .500 since 2017-18. While the Wizards appear positioned for a short-term step forward, they still have to determine whether they want to make a long-term commitment to Young, who holds a player option for next season, and Davis, who has one next summer.

ESPN

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: While the Wizards appear positioned for a short-term …

If this season is to end in more than a third straight second-round loss -- Cleveland already trails the top-seeded Detroit Pistons 1-0 entering Game 2 on Thursday night -- the Cavs will almost certainly need more from their star duo. How the Cavs finish this playoff run will have a significant impact on the reputations of the pair, and perhaps as importantly, define the future for the most expensive roster in basketball. "I've been here before, the pressure's really not -- I don't really feel it," Donovan Mitchell told ESPN. "This isn't pressure. Getting your next meal is pressure. Where am I going to live? You know, that's pressure. This is an opportunity. This is fun. "At least I know we put our best foot forward regardless of the result. ... In years past, some s--- just didn't go my way. Now I'm like: We made the moves. We've done the talk. Now, just continue to walk the walk."

ESPN

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "I've been here before, the pressure's really not -- I …

Arsenal and England star Bukayo Saka has shown his support for coaches by joining a local training session.

Fresh after scoring the goal that sent Arsenal to the Champions League final, the 24-year-old surprised kids by taking part in the session in north London. He offered tips and commented on the value of coaching.

“Not everyone’s path in football looks the same,” said Saka. “And for many players who don’t go on to play professionally, coaching is a brilliant and rewarding way to stay involved.”

The surprise visit saw Saka meet academy coach Ibrahim Fuad, whose own playing career was cut short. With funding from the Chase football coaching programme, Ibrahim completed his Introduction to Coaching Football qualification and has since launched his own football academy.

The Arsenal star continued: “It was really inspiring to meet Ibrahim and his team to hear about his journey and see the impact he’s having within the community.

“The Chase football coaching programme is so important; by expanding access to skills training and pathways into coaching, it’s helping to build positive role models for young people and inspire the next generation.”

Coach Fuad explained: “Football has always been a huge part of my life, and when my playing journey came to an end, coaching gave me new hope. It’s allowed me to help young players develop, not just as footballers, but as people. “Having access to funded coaching qualifications through the Chase programme made that transition possible for me, and it’s something that can make a real difference for so many former players who still have so much to give back to the game.”

Saka is an ambassador for the Chase football coaching programme, which provides free access to coaching qualifications for individuals where cost is a barrier across the UK. Fuad is one of over 7,000 aspiring coaches across the UK who have benefitted from the programme so far. 

Manchester United midfielder Toby Collyer has revealed how Casemiro responded to Ruben Amorim picking him over the Brazilian star.

Setback

After Amorim took over from Erik ten Hag, he initially didn’t fancy Casemiro and often left the veteran out of his starting XIs.

At one point, Collyer found himself above Casemiro in the pecking order, as Amorim himself later confirmed to reporters.

But Casemiro worked his way back and eventually made himself indispensable to the Portuguese coach and the team. By the time Amorim was sacked, Casemiro was almost undroppable – a trend that has carried forward under interim head coach Michael Carrick.

Casemiro is set to depart United at the end of the season when his contract expires, and there have been calls from fans for him to stay for at least another year. However, he recently confirmed that there is no chance of a U-turn.

Collyer, currently on loan at Hull City, spoke to The Athletic’s Andy Mitten and revealed his admiration for Casemiro. Collyer also detailed how Casemiro responded to the early setbacks under Amorim.

Collyer opens up on Casemiro

Asked who stood out in first-team training, the United academy graduate told The Athletic, “In terms of ability, Bruno (Fernandes). Some of the stuff he does in training would have me thinking, ‘That’s not normal, I don’t understand it’. Obviously, he’s clever, but he does turns where he just finds a pass out of nowhere. It’s incredible.”

“Casemiro was a big role model too, a player I looked up to. These past four years, being around him, just watching him and seeing the little things he does. First into training, ultra professional. He’s always observing. People say he’s a warrior off the ball because he reads the game so well, but on the ball he’s exceptional as well with that one-touch around-the-corner pass. He leads by example.”

Collyer added, “Casemiro has been there and done it. When Ruben (Amorim) first came in, he wasn’t having him one bit. I was playing over Caza. I was just focused on my football.”

“I was still obviously speaking to Caza in training. He was still helping me. His English has got a lot better. He was still training very well, and I think he’s a great example because people on the outside don’t see that.”

“When he’s not playing, it’s easy for people to think, ‘Oh, he’s probably not doing well in training’. But he wasn’t. He was giving everything every day.”

“He was the first one in every day. Even when he wasn’t getting picked, he was one of the last ones to leave. He was always in the ice bath, jacuzzi, always doing his gym work, always doing his prep, always giving everything in training. And you could see he was trying to implement what the manager wanted as well.”

“Even so he wasn’t playing, so from me seeing that I could take so much from that. He’s been there and done that. Not getting picked was probably a big shock for him, maybe something he hasn’t experienced. For him to obviously carry on and keep doing the right things just shows how much of a pro he is.”

“With me, he’d just call you over and explain things. That’s why I think I look up to him so much. There are players who are looked up to and then when other players are with them, their views change, but my views on Casemiro haven’t changed.”

United are next in action on Saturday when they go away to Sunderland.

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A participant in a grueling 250-mile ultramarathon on trails across northern Arizona died Tuesday after experiencing a medical emergency, race organizers and local law enforcement said.

First responders attended to a woman in her 40s who was participating in the race and collapsed at a trailhead in the Groom Creek community south of Prescott, Yavapai County Sheriff's Office spokesperson Paul Wick said on Wednesday.

Cocodona 250 ultramarathon codirector Erika Snyder confirmed the death and declined to provide further details at the request of the runner's relatives.

"Please keep the runner's family, friends, fellow runners, volunteers, and first responders in your thoughts," the event's organizers posted on social media. "We are deeply grateful to this beautiful community. The race is going to continue in their honor. We ask all participants and crew to carry the memory of this runner with you on the trail."

Ultramarathons can test the boundaries of human endurance, but deaths are very rare relative to the total number of participants in a sport that has in recent years grown in popularity around the world, with races hosted from Death Valley to the Himalayas. Last year, a Michigan woman collapsed and died during a 100-mile race in the southwest Colorado mountains.

The Cocodona is one of the toughest ultramarathons in the U.S., featuring a course that rises more than a mile in elevation - twice - while passing through Sedona from its start in Black Canyon City. Runners have 125 hours to complete the race, which links some of Arizona's most iconic trails, according to CBS affiliate KPHO.

This year's race started Monday before dawn, and the overall winner, Rachel Entrekin, finished Wednesday afternoon to a roaring crowd in Flagstaff while setting a course record.

Organizers say they're moving to a lottery registration system next year because of the race's popularity.

Aid stations provide opportunities to eat, hydrate and adjust equipment, with a team of medical professional stationed across the course, Snyder said. Racers often nap on the ground along the way in a race that can last five days.

In 2021, freezing rain and high winds were linked to the deaths of 21 runners at an ultramarathon through mountains in northwestern China.

Guenther Steiner’s reaction to Isack Hadjar’s frustration was simple: ‘Max does that to you.’

Hadjar had shown promise earlier in the weekend, making it into SQ3 on Friday before just missing out on points in the shortened race. He qualified ninth for the main event but was later excluded for a technical infringement.

But before he crashed out at sector two’s chicane, he had already fallen well behind Verstappen. After keeping pace with him in earlier rounds, Hadjar ended up more than eight-tenths slower during Grand Prix qualifying.

Isack Hadjar ‘lost control of himself’ after Miami Grand Prix crash

Speaking on the Red Flags podcast, Steiner didn’t sound too optimistic about Hadjar’s future. He doesn’t see the Frenchman as the one to break Red Bull’s long-standing issues with their second seat.

Onboard cameras caught Hadjar repeatedly hitting his steering wheel and helmet in frustration after the crash. He’s shown this kind of reaction before, but Steiner believes it reflects the pressure that comes with being Verstappen’s teammate.

“In Miami, he didn’t do a good job compared to Max,” said Steiner. “It’s back to the old thing now. We know all the history there. It’s a Max show at Red Bull.

“Will it change? I think we were hoping [it would]. I do not think it will change.

“We saw Hadjar, his emotional outburst. Now you’ve crashed, there’s no point in hurting yourself by hitting the steering wheel. He lost control of himself, but I think Max does that to you. I wouldn’t like to work with Max!”

There are also suggestions that Red Bull’s recent upgrades might have shifted car development more toward Verstappen’s preferences than Hadjar’s, though it’s still too early to say for certain.

Why Hadjar’s qualifying form deserves more time before big conclusions are drawn

With Verstappen sitting on 26 points to Hadjar’s four, the gap is clear, but it still feels early to make any sweeping judgments about the Red Bull rookie. He needs more than just one race in the newly-upgraded car.

He’s made Q3 in every round so far, and even though that might not jump off the page for a Red Bull driver, it’s still a level of consistency we haven’t seen from that second seat in some time.

It hasn’t always been smooth for that seat. Tsunoda never managed more than three straight Q3s in a row. You’d have to go back to early 2024 when Perez last put together six straight top-10 shootouts, including Sprints.

The real test now is whether he can build on that foundation or gets swallowed up by what many are calling ‘the Max show’.

Read more:

Elche host Alavés this Saturday at the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero for matchweek 35 of the La Liga. The match will be broadcast live at 13:00 on Premier Sports.

Elche have picked up 38 points and currently lie in 14th position. In their last encounter, Eder Sarabia's team were beaten 3-1 by Celta de Vigo (La Liga 2025/26).

Alavés have won 36 points to date and are placed in 18th position. In their last fixture, Quique Flores's team suffered a 2-4 reverse against Athletic Bilbao (La Liga 2025/26).

The last meeting between the two teams ended with Alavés winning 3-1.

Predicted lineups

Elche: Matías Dituro, John Chetauya, David Affengruber, Pedro Bigas, Tete Morente, Adrià Pedrosa, Gonzalo Villar, Marc Aguado, Aleix Febas, Álvaro Rodríguez, André Silva

Alavés: Antonio Sivera, Jonny Otto, Nahuel Tenaglia, Victor Parada, Ángel Pérez, Pablo Ibáñez, Denis Suárez, Abde Rebbach, Antonio Blanco, Ibrahim Diabaté, Toni Martínez

Unavailable

Elche

Alavés

• Carlos Benavidez - Muscle Injury
• Facundo Garcés - Suspension Through Sports Court

Last starting XIs

Elche ( vs Celta de Vigo 2026-05-03): Matías Dituro, John Chetauya, David Affengruber, Pedro Bigas, Aleix Febas, Tete Morente, Adrià Pedrosa, Marc Aguado, Gonzalo Villar, Álvaro Rodríguez, André Silva

Alavés ( vs Athletic Bilbao 2026-05-02): Antonio Sivera, Ángel Pérez, Nahuel Tenaglia, Jonny Otto, Abde Rebbach, Victor Parada, Pablo Ibáñez, Denis Suárez, Antonio Blanco, Toni Martínez, Ibrahim Diabaté

Did you know...by playmaker stats

MANAGERS

• Quique Flores has faced Elche on two occasions, recording one win and one defeat.
• Eder Sarabia has faced Alavés on three occasions, recording one draw and two defeats.

TEAMS

• Away from home, Alavés currently have one win in their last six matches.
• Away from home, Alavés are coming off four consecutive games scoring goals.
• Away from home, Alavés are coming off ten consecutive games conceding goals.
• Away from home, Alavés are coming off two consecutive games without a win.
• Alavés currently have two wins in their last 13 matches.
• Alavés are coming off eight consecutive games scoring goals.
• Alavés are coming off 16 consecutive games conceding goals.
• At home, Elche currently have two defeats in their last 17 matches.
• At home, Elche are on a run of four consecutive games scoring goals.
• At home, Elche are on a run of five consecutive games unbeaten.
• At home, Elche are on a run of three consecutive wins.
• Elche are coming off four consecutive games scoring goals.
• Elche are coming off three consecutive games conceding goals.

HEAD TO HEAD

• Elche and Alavés have faced each other 32 times, with Alavés holding the advantage: 13 wins, compared with 12 Elche victories.
• At the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero, Elche have the edge in their duels against Alavés: nine wins in 16 matches. Alavés have six victories.
• In La Liga, the two teams have met five times, with two Elche wins and three Alavés victories.

Real Madrid will face off against bitter rivals FC Barcelona, hoping to secure all three points and delay their rivals’ title celebrations.

Given all the negative attention that the club are receiving of late, a victory at the Spotify Camp Nou would be a welcome relief.

And, leading up to the match, Los Blancos have received a boost regarding one of their injured superstar.

Kylian Mbappe passes medical checks

Indeed, according to journalist Abraham Romero of El Mundo, Kylian Mbappe could be included in the squad to face Barcelona on Sunday.

This comes after the French forward passed his medical and physical tests today and even did a part of the training session with the team.

Mbappe could be ready for El Clasico. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Mbappe has been out of action after suffering an injury in his 100th game for Real Madrid against Real Betis. He missed last weekend’s La Liga clash against RCD Espanyol as a result.

Despite there being so much noise surrounding his trip to Italy last week, Mbappe has been fully focused on his recovery so that he can get fit in time to face Barcelona in El Clasico.

Now, as per the report, he has good chances of being called up in the squad for Sunday’s trip to the Catalan capital.

The 27-year-old passed his medical tests, which were supposed to happen on Wednesday but were postponed to today. He also did a small part of the group training before working individually inside the gym with a physio.

Amidst all the controversy and criticism, Mbappe will hope to be cleared to play against Barcelona and silence his detractors with his performance on the pitch.

Iga Swiatek is calling for a sit-down between players and tournament organisers at Roland Garros over ongoing prize money disagreements.

Both Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff have said they would skip Grand Slams in protest, demanding a fairer revenue split. But Swiatek isn’t quite ready to take that step.

“Boycotting the tournament, it’s a bit of an extreme situation. Hopefully, before Roland Garros, there’s going to be an opportunity to have these types of meetings, and we’ll see how they go,” she said.

Kim Clijsters explains how she would approach the Grand Slam prize money dispute

Speaking on the latest episode of ‘Love All’, Clijsters shared her perspective.

“It is not a new topic. I feel like years ago, when I was a youngster growing up with Venus [Williams] and Serena [Williams] as role models, when it came to equal pay for women. I know Venus was in the meeting rooms at Grand Slams and talking to tournament directors, proving a point of why we deserve to be paid equally. She succeeded,” said Clijsters.

“The word boycott was being thrown out at times as well.

“I think where Iga [Swiatek] stands with her comments was that ‘okay, maybe boycotting right now seems a little extreme, but let’s keep negotiating and then if nothing happens let’s see’.

“I think the approach I would take is, let’s have these top players sit in the meeting rooms and see what the challenges are.

Clijsters went on to mention which players she believes need to step up if meaningful change is going to happen.

Clijsters also touched on how current prize money levels affect those outside the spotlight.

This year, just 446 women have earned more than $10,000 on the WTA Tour. Those numbers pale in comparison to other major sports and underline why so many players are speaking out now.

Elena Rybakina discusses the Grand Slam boycott debate

Sabalenka, Swiatek, and Gauff weren’t the only ones addressing boycott questions during media day at the Italian Open.

World number two Elena Rybakina was also asked about the possibility of players boycotting a Grand Slam to push for change.

When asked if she could see herself or other players joining a boycott, Rybakina replied:

“It’s a tough question because we had so many things in the past where players could come together and boycott, but it never happened,” she said.

“If the majority says we are boycotting, we are not playing, then of course I’m up for it. It’s not an issue.”

Rybakina also brought up another issue that gets overlooked when it comes to tennis prize money: taxes.

“A lot of people are not aware that there are taxes which are big. You even make more prize money, but you give it all to the taxes. It’s a different topic.”

No matter how you look at it, this story isn’t going away anytime soon.

Read more:

Reigning ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Champion Kade Ruotolo will make his long-awaited return from injury against Hiroyuki “Japanese Beast” Tetsuka in lightweight MMA action on Friday, May 15.

But then, six weeks later, he will defend his belt against one of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s most dangerous forces in a blockbuster World Title showdown.

The 23-year-old American sensation will put his gold on the line against Fabricio “Hokage” Andrey at The Inner Circle, which goes down live from Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium on Friday, June 26. That match will stream exclusively on live.onefc.com.

Ruotolo is widely regarded as one of the most gifted grapplers of his generation.

The California-based BJJ black belt burst onto ONE Championship’s global stage in May 2022, beating Japanese legend Shinya “Tobikan Judan” Aoki via unanimous decision in his promotional debut. Then, five months later, he forced Uali Kurzhev to tap out and claimed the inaugural ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Title. 

Since capturing the crown, he has defended it three times, defeating Brazil’s Matheus Gabriel once and Norway’s Tommy Langaker twice, all via unanimous decision. 

Ruotolo’s submission hunting skills, relentless top game, and fast-paced attacking style have made him one of the most exciting competitors in the sport today.

The Californian has made an equally stunning impression in the MMA world. He has racked up three consecutive first-round victories to date, with each win looking more impressive than the last.

Now, Ruotolo – the youngest ADCC World Champion in history – gears up for perhaps his most dangerous ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Title defense yet, and the challenger arriving from Brazil has done everything right to earn his shot at glory.

Andrey was born and raised in the BJJ hotbed of Manaus, a city that has produced some of the sport’s most ferocious competitors. 

The Brazilian’s professional grappling record stands at an impressive 106-27, and since making his ONE Championship debut last year, he has looked every bit as dangerous on the global stage as he has been throughout his career. 

Andrey, an IBJJF World Champion and black belt who trains out of Alliance, opened his promotional campaign with a unanimous decision victory over English veteran Ashley Williams in April 2025. Six months later, he defeated Eduardo Granzotto via unanimous decision.

This past February, he produced another unanimous decision win over compatriot and 2025 IBJJF World Champion Joao “Bisnaga” Mendes to cement his place as one of the premier grapplers in the world’s largest martial arts organization.

Known for powerful takedowns and an aggressive submission game that includes flying techniques, Andrey brings an unpredictable, high-risk, high-reward style that has troubled everyone he has faced.

When Ruotolo meets another established BJJ World Champion with 106 professional wins and a flair for the spectacular, the result is a World Title showdown that has all the makings of an instant classic.

Stay tuned to onefc.com for more news about The Inner Circle on June 26.

Source

Stefon Diggs has officially cleared the biggest hurdle he faced, and now his NFL future is back on the table. After being found not guilty in a case that carried the possibility of a five-year prison sentence, Diggs is now free to move forward, both legally and professionally.

MORE: Predicting where remaining NFL free agents will sign

A Legal Cloud Finally Lifted

The case against Diggs ultimately came down to whether the prosecution could meet its burden of proof. They couldn’t. In what was widely viewed as a complex, conflicting case, the jury determined there was not enough evidence to convict.

With that verdict, Diggs avoids serious legal consequences and walks away cleared. For months, uncertainty surrounded his future. Now, that uncertainty is gone.

NFL Future Back in Play

With the legal situation resolved, attention immediately shifts to Diggs’ football career—and more specifically, his status as a free agent.

The NFL had been monitoring the situation closely, but now that the case is behind him, there’s a clear path for teams to engage. And make no mistake: There will be interest.

Even with the off-field distraction, Diggs remains one of the most productive wide receivers in the league. He brings:

• Proven route-running ability
• Big-game experience
• WR1-level upside when at his best

For teams in need of a playmaker, talent like that doesn’t stay available for long.

What Teams Will Consider

Of course, it won’t be as simple as talent alone. Teams will weigh:

• Public perception
• Locker room fit
• Any potential league review under the personal conduct policy

Even with a not guilty verdict, front offices tend to do their due diligence. But the most important factor? He’s eligible to play.

Timing Could Work in His Favor

With offseason programs underway and training camp approaching, this is the perfect window for Diggs to sign. Teams that may have previously stayed away due to uncertainty can now:

• Evaluate him fully
• Bring him in for visits
• Potentially add a high-impact player without legal risk

Stefon Diggs avoided a worst-case scenario. No prison sentence. No conviction. And now, a second chance to continue his NFL career. The legal battle is over. Now, it’s about football again.

— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —

Once again, the Wisconsin Badgers failed to bring in a priority in-state recruit.

This time around, Greg Gard let Donovan Davis, a 6-foot-7 power forward, commit to Iowa State.

According to Rivals' Joe Tipton, the Kaukauna native is one of the highest-rated players to commit to the Cyclones in the modern recruiting era.

Davis had the Badgersin his top five, but ultimately went with Iowa State over Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, and Marquette.

Somehow, the No. 2 player in Wisconsin choosing Iowa State was the best-case scenario, had Madison not been his destination. Now, the Badgers likely won't ever have to play him unless something comes up in the NCAA Tournament.

Gard's class of 2027 has come together quite nicely, but this would've been the ultimate cherry on top. Davis is a top 10 power forward in his class and is an undeniable top 40 recruit in the nation.

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: Wisconsin priority in-state recruit Donovan Davis chooses Iowa State

Fans have seen Khamzat Chimaev be quick and vicious in his unbeaten run in the UFC the past six years.

They've also seen him take his time and drown his opponents for 25 minutes – or at the very least, have them extend his work night a little.

The last time fans saw Chimaev was nine months ago when he dominated Dricus du Plessis to win the middleweight title at UFC 319 in Chicago. The fight was du Plessis' first attempted defense of the 185-pound belt he took from Sean Strickland.

And Strickland (30-7 MMA, 17-7 UFC) happens to be the man Chimaev (15-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) is set to face in the UFC 328 (Paramount+) main event Saturday at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J.

The question is, will the fight look like Chimaev's wins over DDP, former welterweight champ Kamaru Usman and Gilbert Burns? Or will it be more akin to his quick wins over the likes of ex-champ Robert Whittaker, Kevin Holland or Li Jingliang?

Chimaev is a heavy 6-1 favorite against Strickland – which makes him one of the biggest underdogs in UFC title fight history. Working in Strickland's favor? He was a bigger underdog than 6-1 when he upset Israel Adesanya to win the title in 2023.

Ahead of Saturday's title tilt, check out Chimaev's win over du Plessis above.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC 319 full fight video: Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus du Plessis

The New York Giants bolstered their wide receiver depth by selecting former Notre Dame standout Malachi Fields in the third round of the 2026 NFL draft.

Fields is an explosive route runner with excellent size and athleticism. At 6-foot-4 and 223 pounds, he could quickly emerge as a candidate for the Giants' No. 2 receiver role during training camp this summer, especially with veteran Darius Slayton recovering from core-muscle surgery.

Retired offensive lineman and current NFL analyst Brian Baldinger recently broke down some of Fields’ Notre Dame highlights on the Giants' YouTube channel.

Baldinger praised the rookie for his size and blocking ability, while declaring him a true X receiver.

"He's a true X receiver," Baldinger said. "Also, because of his size, he could be an excellent blocker. Obviously, Jeremiyah Love -- the third pick in the draft by the Arizona Cardinals -- many of his big runs were because Fields saw what was happening and was able to eliminate one of the players. Excellent blocker when given the opportunity. The Giants got themselves a true X receiver in the third round."

Fields could begin to shine as early as Giants rookie minicamp this weekend. A star across his five college seasons at Virginia and Notre Dame, he has the potential to make a major impact on New York's offense as soon as Week 1.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Brian Baldinger: New York Giants' Malachi Fields 'a true X receiver'

Luka Doncic has been one of the best basketball players in the world for the last several years. He just completed a fantastic regular season in which he led the NBA in scoring average and registered 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 8.3 assists and 1.6 steals a game.

However, he has received plenty of criticism, especially over the last year or two, for his alleged shortcomings. A fair number of people have accused him of being a weak defender, and some even feel that his numbers are, to an extent, empty calories and that he doesn't make the type of impact a true franchise player should.

The Athletic polled 161 players and asked them to name the most overrated players. Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun got the most votes, but Doncic was also on the list, as he received 3.7% of the votes and came in tied for fifth-most votes.

At this point in his career, since he hasn't won a championship yet and has gotten to the NBA Finals just once in seven previous seasons, one cannot definitively say that Doncic cannot lead a team to the promised land. In his six and a half seasons with the Dallas Mavericks, he never had a supporting cast that was truly strong enough to win it all. With the Los Angeles Lakers, he has had more help around him, but the consensus is that the Lakers' supporting cast is still a bit short of being a championship-level one.

Yet before Doncic suffered the hamstring strain on April 2 that has kept him out since, the team was starting to truly come together. It won 16 of its 18 previous games coming into that April 2 blowout loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, and it beat numerous very good teams, including the New York Knicks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets.

One only has to look at how much L.A. has struggled offensively in the playoffs to see how much of an impact the Slovenian has had. During the regular season, the team averaged 116.3 points a game and shot a league-high 50.2% from the field. But in seven playoff games, it is at 99.6 points a game, which is 14th among the 16 teams that made the playoffs, and it is shooting 46.4% overall, which is seventh.

In the regular season, the Lakers were 10th in offensive rating. So far in the playoffs, they rank 12th among 16 teams in that category. They still haven't reached the 110-point mark in regulation in any postseason games this year.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Luka Doncic got votes in balloting for most overrated NBA player

When the Dallas Cowboys top headline focuses on rookie Caleb Downs and his jersey number, the dead news zone of the offseason must have arrived. The Downs news is centered around the No. 2, the jersey he wore at Ohio St., and the number currently belonging to cornerback Cobie Durant. Either Downs wants the number but doesn't seem willing to pay for it, or Durant isn't willing to give up the number. It's a story for sure but not the story of the day.

The real lead story is what Cowboys EVP Stephen Jones had to say about the Micah Parsons trade, after fulfilling all of the draft picks acquired. On Tuesday, Jones told  Adam Schein on Mad Dog Sports Radio that they feel good about the trade, explaining why they didn't extend Parsons. "We had that opportunity there and didn't feel like we were one player away last year, but I certainly feel like we're putting the pieces together to give us an opportunity to go do what our fans deserve, what we want, which is to go try and win the big trophy."

The debate surrounding the Cowboys and Parsons will continue throughout the season, and ultimately can't be answered until either the Cowboys or Parsons win a Super Bowl. Then and only then can either side really say they were better off after the trade.

Dallas Cowboys Top Headlines

∎ Downs already ditching No. 18 jersey∷ Cowboys Wire (Link)

∎ 'The Insiders' evaluate Cowboys COO Stephen Jones' remarks about feeling 'real good' after trading away Micah Parsons ∷ NFL.com (Link)

∎ 6 key Cowboys offensive battles worth closely monitoring this summer ∷ Cowboys Wire (Link)

∎ 3 veteran free agents who fill a Cowboys’ need ∷ Blogging The Boys (Link)

∎ 3 Points: Why Quinnen Williams will lead Cowboys' defensive charge ∷ DallasCowboys.com (Link)

∎ Cowboys’ Javonte Williams Emerges as Dark Horse 2026 Rushing Title Candidate ∷ Sports Illustrated (Link)

∎ Fowler’s official departure is a reminder for Cowboys future strategy ∷ Cowboys Wire (Link)

∎ ESPN NFL power rankings barely have Cowboys as top half team ∷ Blogging The Boys (Link)

∎ OTerrell Owens Takes Brutal Shot at Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones ∷ Heavy.com (Link)

∎ Kay Adams just gave Cowboys fans the hope they desperately needed ∷ TheLandryHat (Link)

∎ Dallas Cowboys Might Be On List of Teams Interested in Jadeveon Clowney ∷ Sports Illustrated (Link)

∎ Caleb Downs' Cowboys Role Teased by Josh Downs, Colts WR Trolls 'Little Brother' in Video ∷ BleacherReport (Link)

∎ Cowboys schedule 2026: Dallas' opponents ahead of NFL's official release ∷ USA Today (Link)

∎ Drew Shelton could compete for a starting tackle position ∷ Inside The Star (Link)

The latest news from around the NFC East

∎ Commanders face brutal Brandon Aiyuk reality as 49ers payback scenario emerges ∷ Riggo's Rags (Link)

∎ Is the NY Giants offense or defense stronger? ∷ Big Blue View (Link)

∎ Garafolo: Eagles promotion Adam Berry to assistant GM ∷ NFL.com (Link)

∎ Eagles’ Jordan Mailata weighs in on AJ Brown trade rumors∷ ClutchSports (Link)

News & Headlines from Around the NFL

∎ Jacksonville Jaguars expect increased cornerback role for Travis Hunter this season ∷ SportingNews (Link)

∎ Are the Cardinals chasing a legend or landmark disaster in Aaron Rodgers? ∷ Arizona Sports (Link)

∎ Drake Maye again backs Mike Vrabel: It won’t be a distraction ∷ ProFootballTalk (Link)

∎ 2026 NFL offseason: Veterans on the hot seat after the draft ∷ ESPN (Link)

Terence is on X at @Watson703. Also, follow Cowboys Wire on Facebook to join in on the conversation with fellow fans!

This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys Headlines: Jones still talking Parsons, Downs still not happy?

Welcome to the NFL, rookies.

The Denver Broncos are set to hold a rookie minicamp from May 8-10, with players expected to report to the team's facility today (May 7). One of the key players to watch will be running back Jonah Coleman, the club's fourth-round pick in last month's NFL draft.

"Ultimately, to be a Bronco is the best thing in the world," Coleman told the Big Ten Network during a sideline interview at Washington's spring game last week.

Coleman figures to begin his pro career as a third-string running back behind J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey, but he could quickly win playing time as a capable blocker and receiver.

Jonah Coleman living out his dream 🌟 @Broncospic.twitter.com/lc6rPnVbgf

— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) May 2, 2026

Broncos offseason schedule

• Offseason program started: May 4
• Rookie minicamp: May 8-10
• OTAs: June 2-4; June 9-11
• Mandatory minicamp: June 16-18

With rookies reporting to the facility, we should get jersey number news soon. Denver's draft class, undrafted free agent signings and several expected tryout players will participate in the rookie minicamp this weekend.

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: Denver Broncos news: Jonah Coleman and more report for rookie minicamp

The Georgia Bulldogs have had an eventful offseason since the conclusion of the 2025 season with a loss to Ole Miss in the Sugar Bowl. Georgia lost a multitude of talent to the 2026 NFL draft in April, and the Dawgs are hoping to replicate star wide receiver Zachariah Branch’s production in 2026. 

The Bulldogs lost offensive tackle Monroe Freeling, defensive tackle Christen Miller, linebacker CJ Allen, tight end Oscar Delp, defensive back Daylen Everette, wide receiver Colbie Young and offensive guard Micah Morris to the NFL Draft in addition to Branch. Former Georgia running back Cash Jones signed with the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent along with four other former Bulldogs that signed undrafted free agents. The Dawgs will still enter the 2026 campaign as one of the top teams in college football despite the departure of some massive contributors. 

ESPN’s Eli Lederman, Max Olson, and Adam Rittenberg recently released their edition of ranking the offseason for every college football team, with Georgia listed as the fourth best team in the SEC. The analysts also named the Bulldogs’ “what went right/wrong” moments from the offseason, highlighting Georgia’s key departures and additions over the past few months. 

One of Georgia’s biggest “what went wrong” moments from the offseason is the departure of Gunner Stockton’s top five pass catchers from the 2025 campaign. The talented quarterback will return to Athens in 2026, but Stockton will be forced to target an unproven wide receiver corps throughout his redshirt senior campaign at Georgia. ESPN lists former Georgia commit Jared Curtis flipping to Vanderbilt as another "what went wrong" moment as well, as Curtis is widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks from the class of 2026.

Another major “what went wrong” moment for the Bulldogs this offseason was Amaris Williams’ potential season-ending knee injury suffered in spring camp. An Auburn transfer, Williams was a star on the Tigers defensive line last season and was expected to play a huge role at Georgia following the departure of Christen Miller.

Georgia’s “what went right” category is headlined by retention, as the Bulldogs lost just one starter with remaining eligibility to the transfer portal this offseason in safety Joenel Aguero. Aguero was replaced by former Clemson star Khalil Barnes, and Georgia’s secondary should be among the top in the SEC once again in 2026. 

ESPN also listed the return of Georgia running back Nate Frazier in the “what went right” column for the Bulldogs this offseason. Frazier recorded 947 yards and 6 touchdowns on 173 carries in 2025, and the running back will lead the way in the Dawgs’ backfield yet again throughout the 2026 campaign. 

Georgia made a ton of roster moves throughout the entirety of the offseason. The Bulldogs were able to retain some serious talent despite a multitude of players departing, and Georgia will enter the 2026 season as one of the best teams in the country. 

Follow UGA Wire on Instagram, Facebook, X, or Threads for more Georgia football coverage!

This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: ESPN names what went wrong for Georgia this offseason

With the summer evaluation period underway, the Washington Huskies coaching staff has hit the road on the recruiting trail in search of new potential targets.

That search took quarterbacks coach J.P. Losman to Hawaii, where on Tuesday, he extended an offer to four-star quarterback Hunter Fujikawa of Miliani High School, the same program that produced redshirt freshman Treston Kini McMillan in the 2025 class.

At 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, Fujikawa is ranked as the No. 225 overall prospect and No. 13 quarterback in the 2028 class by 247Sports, and has quickly become one of the nation's most sought-after signal callers. He already holds 26 offers, with Alabama, Arizona, Auburn, Nebraska, Ohio State, and Oregon among the programs pursuing his services.

Thank you Jesus!! After a great conversation with @jlosmanJPL I am so blessed to receive an offer from the University of Washington! #purplereign ☔️ @CoachJeddFisch@BrandonHuffman@GregBiggins@adamgorney@BlairAngulo@TomLoy247pic.twitter.com/gAcXA0QSM5

— Hunter Fujikawa (@hunterfujikawa) May 5, 2026

Fujikawa spent his sophomore season at Punahou High School in Honolulu before transferring to Miliani, where he showed plenty of desired traits to lead a college offense.

He has the arm talent to layer throws to all three levels of the field, along with the strength and accuracy needed to rip passes into tight windows. Along with that, he has the athleticism required to succeed in Jedd Fisch's scheme, showcasing his elusiveness both in the pocket to avoid sacks and in the open field as a ball carrier.

As Fisch continues to expand Washington's recruiting footprint, establishing the Huskies as a consistent presence in Hawaii would help him continue to build a roster that can compete with the top programs in the Big Ten.

This article originally appeared on Huskies Wire: Washington Huskies extend offer to 4-star 2028 Hawaii QB

Real Madrid can breathe a sigh of relief ahead of the most important fixture of the league calendar.

As reported by Melchor Ruiz on Cadena COPE, Kylian Mbappé has successfully come through the latest medical tests and is expected to be included in Álvaro Arbeloa's squad to face FC Barcelona.

The French forward, who had been dealing with muscle discomfort, has been working against the clock to shorten his recovery time.

After completing the training session with the group, the signs are positive and the coaching staff are counting on him to lead the attack at Camp Nou next Sunday.

He returns after his appearances in Italy

This news comes at a time of intense media scrutiny. During his rehabilitation process, Madrid's No. 9 came under criticism after images from his days off were leaked.

His public appearances on yachts and alongside his partner during a trip to Italy sparked a heated debate about his commitment and professionalism while the team needed him.

Now medically cleared, Mbappé has the chance to respond where he likes it most: on the pitch.

His presence in El Clásico is a major psychological boost for a squad looking to reclaim top spot in the domestic competition.

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

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid spoke with reporters during last weekend's rookie minicamp. He offered a promising comparison for rookie Emmett Johnson to retired All-Pro running back LeSean McCoy.

"First of all, he's (Johnson) got a good feel for things, (he's) a smart, kind, good kid, he's got that lateral quickness. We had LeSean McCoy here for a bit, and he has a little bit of that to him, where he can shift gears and still get himself up the field quickly," said Reid, "I like the way he pass protects, I like the way he catches the football, and it looks like he can do that here. We're not doing live stuff, but the catching part he does easy. Probably most of all, I just like his smarts. He's going to help on special teams, too. Dave (Toub) has him in that up-back position on the punt team and (he's) able to make all the calls and get guys going in the right direction."

McCoy was a two-time first-team All-Pro and a six-time Pro Bowler and was named to the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team. No player scored more touchdowns, ran for more yards, or gained more yards from scrimmage than McCoy from 2010 to 2019, and he notably won two Super Bowls with the first as a member of the Chiefs in 2019.

E$ on the move 😤 @Emmett10Johnsonpic.twitter.com/hnZ9tNI5XZ

— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) May 1, 2026

Reid explained how Johnson's receiving ability drove the idea to target him in the draft.

"It's important in this offense that you're able to catch the ball. You got to be able to block, and he (Johnson) showed that," said Reid, "At the same time, you have to be able to run the ball. The more you can do, we'll utilize you in those areas, and it puts pressure on the defense."

During his four seasons at Nebraska, Johnson appeared in 41 games, tallying 2,460 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns on 458 attempts. He also had 92 receptions for 702 receiving yards and five touchdowns.

This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs RB Emmett Johnson earns a comparison to a retired All-Pro

The synergies between a Disney-owned Fubo and the Worldwide Leader in sports are about to become more apparent.

Fubo, the virtual pay-TV provider recently acquired by Disney, is expected to roll out an option to purchase its sports-focused skinny bundle through ESPN platforms in 2027, the company announced in a press release ahead of its quarterly earnings call on Wednesday. The initiative will allow users to purchase Fubo Sports, the provider’s slimmed-down bundle of sports channels, directly through ESPN platforms. Additionally, features such as ESPN.com’s “Where to Watch” pages will soon link directly to Fubo.

Fubo Sports is one of many sports-focused skinny bundles to have hit the market in recent years. At a monthly price of $56, Fubo Sports is more affordable than other sports skinny bundles, but does not include numerous networks that most sports fans would deem essential. Currently, Fubo Sports does not carry any of the TNT Sports networks, the Versant networks, NBC, or NBCSN.

A Fubo Sports subscription does, however, include access to ESPN Unlimited, the premium tier of ESPN’s new direct-to-consumer offering, which is required to watch exclusive content such as WWE Premium Live Events, certain Grand Slam tennis matches, and various studio programming.

The plans to offer Fubo Sports for purchase on ESPN platforms are being characterized as a “reseller and marketing arrangement” between the two entities. Presumably, this offering will not see Fubo Sports fully integrated within the ESPN app.

While Disney now owns a 70% stake in Fubo, the Fubo management team remains responsible for operating the company under the terms of the merger agreement. Disney formally combined Fubo’s operations with its other virtual pay-TV operator, Hulu + Live TV, shortly after the merger closed, though both are still available as standalone products.

Fubo has long positioned itself as a solution for sports fans who have left the traditional cable or satellite bundle. However, it is operating in an increasingly crowded space, with nearly every prominent distributor — both legacy cable and satellite distributors and virtual newcomers — having launched its own sports-focused offerings. And with a sports bundle that can generously be characterized as incomplete, Fubo will be heavily reliant on Disney to help the platform secure carriage of key networks in future distribution negotiations.

The post Fubo expected to offer sports skinny bundle purchase through ESPN app appeared first on Awful Announcing.

A few weeks ago upon the news of Angels franchise icon Garret Anderson passing away, John wrote a tribute to him, saluting him as one of the great Yankee Killers of recent vintage. Now today, we’re on the heels of the Yankees once again getting rolled by the man we’ve taken to calling “an old frenemy,” Nathan Eovaldi. The Yanks have lost just twice in the last nine games, and both times were at Eovaldi’s hands. He’s pretty much always pitched well in such situtations, with a 2.94 career ERA in 140.2 innings against New York, and he’s been especially good of late. Since the start of 2025, he’s allowed a grand total of two runs in four starts across a span of 29 innings, a minuscule 0.63 ERA. Goodness.

With Eovaldi’s excellence in mind, who do you think is the best Yankees Killer on the mound? If you need a refresher, there are some good names to consider. Hall of Fame southpaw Randy Johnson was brutal for just about everyone to deal with, and he helped two separate teams send the Yankees home in October around a time when that wasn’t happening very often — first with the 1995 Mariners, just before the dynasty really got humming and then with the 2001 Diamondbacks, who effectively ended the championship run. He even pitched in relief during the win-or-go-home elimination games on both occasions!

There’s also Luis Tiant, Dave Stieb, Curt Schilling, Josh Beckett, Roy Halladay, A.J. Burnett, Cliff Lee, Dallas Keuchel, Justin Verlander, and of course the originally-named “Yankee Killer,” midcentury All-Star Frank Lary. Knuckleballing Hall of Fame swingman Hoyt Wilhelm also had a 1.98 ERA in 209.1 career innings against New York around the same time as Lary, and he also threw what still stands as the last complete-game no-hitter against the Yankees back in 1958. If you want obscure and random, I remember the Red Sox having a soft-tosser named Frank Castillo who absolutely gave the Yankees fits in the early 2000s. More recently, Cristian Javier and Brayan Bello have been tougher customers against the Yanks than most other teams.

So take your pick! I think Johnson probably has too much of a resume to ignore, but if we’re talking non-Hall of Famers, boy was it never, ever fun to face Cliff Lee. And like Johnson, he made the Yanks look awful in postseason play pretty much whenever he got a chance.

It’s not surprising that the Yankees’ front office wanted him so much, nearly trading for him in 2010 and falling short in the 2011 free agent sweepstakes. If you prefer to be optimistic (in a way) though, maybe it would’ve just turned out like Johnson’s own up-and-down, abbreviated Yankees career.

Today on the site, Peter will focus in on an at-bat from David Bednar’s five-out save on May 5th for his Sequence of the Week feature, Madison will have the Rivalry Roundup, and Jonathan’s Yankees Birthday post discusses Tom Zachary, who won a World Series in pinstripes in 1928 but is most famous for something he did before ever joining the Yankees: surrendering Babe Ruth’s then-record 60th homer of the legendary 1927 campaign. Later, Estevão will ponder the extremely middling American League landscape, and after the matinee, Jeremy will pay his respects to the late John Sterling with a tribute from the perspective of an aspiring broadcaster in his own right.

Today’s Matchup

New York Yankees vs. Texas Rangers

Time: 12:35 p.m. EST

Video: YES, Rangers Sports Network

Venue: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY

WNBA predictions 2026: Sporting News experts make picks for Caitlin Clark, WNBA Finals and more originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

After months of deliberations, weeks of anticipation and two preseason games, the 2026 WNBA regular season is mercifully here.

It figures to be a memorable campaign. There are a host of gifted standouts in new jerseys, with Angel Reese, Satou Sabally and Nneka Ogwumike all headed to new homes in 2026. There are new teams, too; the Fire and Tempo are set to join the party, hoping to drum up interest in their respective enclaves a la the Valkyries.

The rookie class is fascinating. The veterans are enchanting. And the paychecks are a whole lot bigger. The 2026 season is shaping up to be one for the record books. And we haven't even gotten started yet.

With that, here are our expert picks on end-of-season awards, the Commissioner's Cup champion, the top contenders in this year's playoff hunt and, as always, a prediction for the 2026 WNBA Finals.

SN's WNBA HQ: Live WNBA scores | Updated WNBA standings | Full WNBA schedule

WNBA predictions 2026

David Suggs

MVP: A'ja Wilson, Aces

Rookie of the Year: Flau'jae Johnson, Storm

Defensive Player of the Year: Gabby Williams, Valkyries

Coach of the Year: Karl Smesko, Dream

Commissioner's Cup champion: Indiana Fever

Top four teams: Atlanta Dream, New York Liberty, Indiana Fever, Las Vegas Aces

Finals prediction: Las Vegas Aces over Atlanta Dream

Angel Reese should slot nicely into Karl Smesko's lineup in 2026. I'm interested to see if she can take a Naz Hillmon-like leap as a shooter. If she can improve upon her career 18.4% three-point percentage, the Dream could emerge as the W's most well-rounded outfit.

Beyond that, I think the Aces' decision to sign Chennedy Carter could prove to be the smartest deal of the offseason. She has her detractors. But few players are quite as accomplished an isolation scorer as she is. Carter — and A'ja Wilson — will be the difference as Las Vegas downs Atlanta in seven to pick up its fourth title in five years.

MORE: Ranking the 30 best WNBA players in 2026, from A'ja Wilson to Caitlin Clark

Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Carlan Gay

MVP: Allisha Gray, Dream

Rookie of the Year: Olivia Miles, Lynx

Defensive Player of the Year: Gabby Williams, Valkyries

Coach of the Year: Karl Smesko, Dream

Commissioner's Cup champion: New York Liberty

Top four teams: New York Liberty, Atlanta Dream, Las Vegas Aces, Indiana Fever

Finals prediction: Dream vs. Fever

I’m banking on the Dream finally getting over the first-round hump and into the Finals. I’m also banking on better health for a Fever team that almost made the Finals without key cogs last year. An Atlanta-Indiana best-of-seven Finals matchup would be a Fever Dream.

Also, I can’t wait to see Gabby Williams lock up defensively on one of the better defensive teams in the league, fresh off winning her third (!) Defensive Player of the Year in the EuroLeague.

MORE: Which WNBA teams have the highest valuations?

Steph Noh

MVP: Breanna Stewart

Rookie of the Year: Olivia Miles

Defensive Player of the Year: A'ja Wilson

Coach of the Year: Sandy Brondello

Commissioner's Cup champion: Liberty

Top four teams: Liberty, Aces, Dream, Fever

Finals prediction: Liberty vs. Aces

Thoughts: How good can the Tempo be in their first year? Sandy Brondello has never missed the playoffs in 13 seasons as a WNBA head coach. The Tempo has two good players in Brittney Sykes and Marina Mabrey, who might get them to a more respectable level than most expansion teams. Toronto is a great basketball city, and they'll probably have a great home court advantage at the very least. 

Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Daniel Yanofsky

MVP: A'ja Wilson

Rookie of the Year: Lauren Betts

Defensive Player of the Year: A'ja Wilson 

Coach of the Year: Sydney Johnson (Mystics)

Commissioner's Cup Champion: New York Liberty

Top four teams: Las Vegas Aces, New York Liberty, Washington Mystics, Atlanta Dream

Final prediction: Las Vegas Aces repeat as champions

Thoughts: Last season, I predicted the New York Liberty would repeat as champions. This year, I'll continue that trend by predicting the Las Vegas Aces will win it all. The Aces have the league's best player, A'ja Wilson, and top-tier role players. They have enough talent to cement their status as a true dynasty.

Chicago may not go far in the playoffs, but it will be fascinating to see how everyone gels post-Angel Reese. Also, will Skylar Diggins confront Sky management before the season ends?

The Wings fascinate me. Caitlin Clark may be considered the star, but Paige Bueckers will be the player to watch. Penciling Wilson as MVP once again, but year two for Bueckers could be one to remember.

Lauren Betts, Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, and a healthy Georgia Amoore? I believe the Mystics will be a problem.

Rangers vs Yankees picks and predictions for Thursday originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Get ready for an exciting afternoon clash in the Bronx as the Texas Rangers travel to face the New York Yankees. First pitch is scheduled for 12:35 PM ET at Yankee Stadium, and fans can follow these Rangers vs Yankees picks and predictions to trade on all the action.

Use theKalshi promo code TSNEWS to secure a $10 sign up bonus by making $10 worth of trades. 

The Yankees enter this matchup playing excellent baseball, and the Bronx Bombers have established themselves as one of the most formidable teams in the league early in the season. On the other side of the diamond, the Rangers are looking to gain some momentum as they battle to climb their way back toward the .500 mark.

For fans and prediction market traders, there is no shortage of star power to watch in this contest. The Yankees offensive firepower is anchored by superstar Aaron Judge and veteran slugger Paul Goldschmidt, who will look to provide plenty of run support for their probable starting pitcher, Ryan Weathers. Texas will counter with MacKenzie Gore on the mound. To secure a tough road victory, Gore will need strong offensive backing from elite Rangers playmakers like Corey Seager and Evan Carter.

Rangers vs Yankees picks and predictions for Thursday

Prediction markets have established the Yankees as clear favorites in this matchup, assigning them a 65% win probability compared to 35% for the Rangers. This pricing reflects the significant statistical gap between the two clubs during the early stages of the 2026 season.

Market participants evaluating this contest should closely examine the noticeable offensive disparity. New York brings a highly potent lineup to the plate, boasting a .797 team OPS and a .459 slugging percentage. They have driven in 188 runs and scored 199 total runs across their campaign. On the other hand, the Rangers offense has struggled to find consistent power, carrying a lower .689 OPS, a .373 slugging percentage, and just 131 total runs.

The Rangers will rely on Gore to contain the New York bats, though Texas starting pitchers have collectively posted a 4.434 ERA so far this season. The Yankees will counter with Weathers, who benefits from a dominant New York pitching staff that holds a stellar 2.984 overall ERA and an elite 2.775 ERA specifically from its starters.

Injury reports remain a critical factor for traders to monitor. The Yankees are operating without several key contributors, including designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton with a leg issue and starting pitchers Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon out with elbow injuries. The Rangers are also dealing with a depleted roster, currently carrying nine active injuries. Key absences for Texas include outfielder Wyatt Langford nursing a forearm issue, infielder Josh Smith recovering from a glute injury, and starting pitcher Jordan Montgomery sidelined by an elbow problem.

For market participants, the combination of elite New York pitching metrics, a power hitting advantage, and recent head-to-head success provides clear analytical context for their 65% win probability price.

Rangers vs Yankees prediction for Thursday

Analyzing this matchup from a prediction market perspective, taking a position on the Yankees to win fully justifies their 65% prediction market price. The Bronx Bombers have been vastly superior out of the gate with a stellar 25-11 record, and their starting pitching advantage in this specific contest provides a highly reliable foundation for traders.

The primary catalyst for a Yankees victory lies on the mound. Probable starter Ryan Weathers has been exceptionally sharp, posting a strong 3.026 ERA and a 1.190 WHIP across 38.2 innings of work. Weathers has demonstrated excellent control and swing-and-miss ability, recording 10.47 strikeouts per nine innings while limiting free passes to an impressive 2.33 per nine.

On the opposing side, Texas will hand the ball to MacKenzie Gore. While Gore possesses undeniable electric stuff, evidenced by his elite 11.68 strikeouts per nine innings and a stingy .223 opponent batting average, his underlying metrics reveal significant vulnerabilities. Gore currently holds a bloated 4.673 ERA and a 1.356 WHIP over 34.2 innings, largely driven by severe command issues. His walk rate of 4.67 batters per nine innings is highly problematic, especially when facing a potent Yankees lineup that already thrives on capitalizing on opposing mistakes.

The potential risk to this position is Gore putting together a rare, perfectly controlled outing. If he harnesses his elite strikeout capabilities while effectively limiting his walks, he possesses the raw talent to neutralize the New York bats. The Rangers are battling hard to claw their way back toward a .500 record and will be highly motivated to steal a road win.

However, over the course of nine innings, the Yankees consistent pitching and established offensive dominance offer a much safer market position. The ability of Weathers to throw strikes consistently should keep the Rangers lineup at bay, while New York is perfectly constructed to heavily punish the persistent command struggles of Gore. The wide gap in form, discipline, and overall execution between these two clubs makes the home team the clear, confident choice.

Pick/Prediction: New York Yankees

Joey Cantillo, Austin Hedges stealing multiple bases, and a very timely challenge were the magic recipe for a victory over the Kansas City Royals. Nick has the Game 3 recap here. First pitch for Game 4 is today at 2:10PM EDT.

As Hedges continues to have a successful start to the season, many can’t help but look at Bo Naylor’s lackluster start. Quincy took a look at Bo Naylor’s offense yesterday to break down his stats.

With the Guardians win last night, Cleveland remains in first place of the AL Central and returned to .500. The Detroit Tigers are 1.0 games back from the Guardians. The New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays are the only team in the American League above .500. The Cleveland Guardians and Athletics are the only other teams in the AL at .500.

Around the League

The Tigers are having a rough go of things. Framber Valdez was suspended for 6 games (1-2 starts) for hitting Trevor Story. A.J. Hinch was suspended for a game for the same altercation. On top of the suspensions and recent injuries, the Tigers fired their AAA manager due to an inappropriate text message sent to a female colleague.

Matthew Boyd injured his left meniscus and will require surgery.

Carlos Correa will miss the rest of the season with an ankle injury. No, not that ankle, the other ankle.

Today’s Reflections

I was just wrapping up Cub Tracks for you good folks, checking for mistakes and broken links, giving the news feed one last refresh—

I (and probably a lot of Cub fans) feel like they are standing on the precipice of either the second World Series appearance in a decade (the Dodgers just moved to the AL, the Angels moved to the NL) ….. or utter devastation. Standing on that cliff, we look behind us and see an offense, mostly starting to click really well, foaming at the mouth, waiting for their chance to SMASH BASEBALL!

Then we look over the edge of the cliff and see the pitching staff — anybody that stands 10 inches above the height of home plate — and they are just ….. foaming, and decaying, period.

We turn back to the hitters and tell them:

Here’s an interesting quote from below: “This is the most unlucky and unfortunate injury-impacted season in recent Chicago Cubs memory”. Obviously, Mr. Cerami isn’t anywhere near old enough to recall 1985. This is where we call upon Al: Wrigley Field History, April 16, 1985:

Everything looked great for the Cubs that year, even into June; they won on June 11, running their record to 35-19, four games in first place. But then the starting pitchers began to get injured. Every. Single. One. Of. Them. All five starters — Sutcliffe, Eckersley, Scott Sanderson, Steve Trout and Dick Ruthven — spent time on the DL.

It’s not a mirror image and we still have Shota. And we’re used to a couple dozen bullpen injuries at a time. But, yeah. PLEASE be careful, Shōta! Let someone brush your teeth for you, for God’s sake! You, too, Colin Rea! I don’t want to see another 37 stories in a row about YOUR injury. Or xxxxx’s, or xxxxx’s, etc.

(Sigh) Let’s at least start the links with what yesterday was SUPPOSED to be about — recollection and celebration:

*means autoplay on, (directions to remove for Firefox and Chrome). {$} means paywall. {$} means limited views. Italics are often used on this page as sarcasm font. The powers that be have enabled real sarcasm font in the comments.

• Jesse Rogers (ESPN): ‘What even is that pitch?’ An oral history of Kerry Wood’s 20-K day. “It was an otherwise nondescript day. In fact, it was a forgettable one.”
• Jordan Llanes (Clutch Points): Cubs’ Jed Hoyer preaches patience on big trades, but has team in position to strike. “Chicago Cubs president of baseball ops Jed Hoyer preaches patience when it comes to blockbuster trades yet has the team in position to strike.”
• Ryan O’Rourke (Cubbies Crib): Injury to huge potential Cubs trade target could change the equation at the deadline. “(Joe Ryan’s) imaging showed no structural damage in his elbow and he’s expected to make his next start, but you can bet the Twins – and any team with interest in shoring up the rotation this summer will be keeping a close eye on him.”

• Jordan Campbell (Cubbies Crib): Cubs hit with crippling surprise Matthew Boyd injury news (with bizarre origin story). “A meniscus trim would likely have Boyd back in the rotation by the end of July. A meniscus repair would sideline Boyd for the remainder of the season ….. No, it wasn’t anything Boyd was doing on the field that caused the injury. Instead, he was sitting down to play with his kids.”
• Michael Cerami (Bleacher Nation): No, Freakin’ Way: Now Matthew Boyd Is Getting Surgery (UPDATE). “You have GOT to be kidding me. According to Taylor McGregor, Matthew Boyd is getting surgery on his meniscus (knee) and “will be out for the foreseeable future.” I don’t even know what to say, other than this seals it: This is the most unlucky and unfortunate injury-impacted season in recent Chicago Cubs memory.“
• Tommy Erbe (SportsNetOnTap): Chicago Cubs Trade Target Emerges In Wake Of Matthew Boyd News. “After the Chicago Cubs announced Matthew Boyd would be on the shelf for “foreseeable future,” a possible trade target has come forward.“

• Matthew Trueblood (North Side Baseball): How Ryan Rolison Explains the Universe (Kind of) (For Now). “The Cubs have won back-to-back games in walkoff fashion, and each time, the win has gone to an unlikely pitcher. Lefty reliever Ryan Rolison is an emergency fill-in for a bullpen with higher-octane arms. He’s also what makes the Cubs great in 2026, in microcosm.”
• Nick Hudson (SportsNetOnTap): Carson Kelly Proves Knowing The ABS Zone Is A Game Changer. “Chicago Cubs catcher Carson Kelly’s use of ABS is ridiculously good. The system is improving games and creating real momentum swings.”

• Michael Cerami (Bleacher Nation): Alex Bregman’s Power Is Coming Back and in a Really Encouraging Way. “In the first year of a $175M deal, yeah, we’re justified in expecting more. But here’s the thing, I actually do think that’s coming. In fact, it’s already started, and in a sustainable way.”
• N.B. Linberg (Fangraphs.com): Which Young Player Will Your Favorite MLB Team Extend Next? “Franchises have never been more aggressive in extending their top prospects. These are who could be next.”
• Steve Greenberg (Chicago Sun-Times{$}): Nico Hoerner, MVP of smoking-hot Cubs so far, has more and more people talking. “Given the Cubs’ 13-game Wrigley Field winning streak entering Wednesday, it seemed like a fine time to ask around about who is “the man” on a team with a long list of guys playing well.“
• Evan Altman (Cubs Insider): Winning Is Fun, Which Means Cubs Baseball Is Very Fun Right Now. “It’s like experiencing the Platonic ideal of a chair, only to then be forced to go back and use highly imperfect recreations in perpetuity.”
• Max Ralph (MLB.com): Rojas, Cubs No. 4 prospect, hits 4th homer to continue strong Double-A start. “Jefferson Rojas had a shaky start to his time in Double-A as a 20-year-old last season. Now with another trip around the sun under his belt, the Cubs’ No. 4 prospect is raking at the level.”
• Tommy Erbe (SportsNetOnTap): Numbers Suggest Michael Busch Is Climbing Back Up To Normalcy. “Michael Busch is heating up offensively; the numbers prove it. When Busch is on, so too are the Chicago Cubs.”
• Patrick Mooney (The Athletic {$}): With Wrigley Field rocking, the Cubs are setting the stage for a big trade deadline. “All things considered, the first-place Cubs (24-12) are in excellent shape.”
• Zachary Cariola (Sporting News): National League Central labeled one of the most ‘chaotic’ by MLB expert. “According to MLB.com’s Will Leitch, the National League Central is considered the third-most chaotic division in Major League Baseball, with a score of 7/10.”
• Randy Holt (North Side Baseball): Alex Bregman Has Been Fine for the Cubs So Far. Is ‘Fine’ Good Enough? “In many ways, Alex Bregman has been exactly who the Cubs thought he was when they signed him to a five-year deal this winter. In other ways, they’re still waiting for him to get going.”
• Nick Hudson (SportsNetOnTap.com): Carson Kelly Proves Knowing The ABS Zone Is A Game Changer. “Chicago Cubs catcher Carson Kelly’s use of ABS is ridiculously good. The system is improving games and creating real momentum swings.”

• Anthony Laurila (Fangraphs.com): Cubs Prospect Jonathon Long Has a Long Swing That Pairs Power and Contact. “Ranked 17th on our recently released 2026 Cubs Top Prospects list with a 40 FV, the 24-year-old first baseman has a profile that is promising, yet in some ways concerning.”
• Zachary Draves (ClutchPoints): What Pete Crow-Armstrong said about Michael Conforto’s clutch walk-off home run.

• Meghan Montemurro (Chicago Tribune {$}): Chicago Cubs’ Moisés Ballesteros is always on the attack: ‘He’s just incredibly confident’. “Moisés Ballesteros carries a mantra with him into the batter’s box.”
• Joe Maddon (The Athletic {$}): Joe Maddon: These are the 3 best leaders I managed in MLB. “In a dugout during the game, if someone screwed up on the field, I never had to walk down and tell the player on the bench.”
• Patrick Mooney (The Athletic{$}): As Moisés Ballesteros navigates breakout season, Cubs have clear vision for rookie. “As yet another line drive rocketed off Moisés Ballesteros’ bat during spring training, Cubs manager Craig Counsell was business as usual as he turned to the club’s hitting coaches assembled in the dugout: We need to talk.”

Food For Thought:

Muddy Waters was, in many ways, the archetypal bluesman. He was raised as a sharecropper in the Mississippi Delta, where he learned to play an acoustic guitar. He went to Chicago in 1943, and the band he assembled established the electric blues sound. Over the next three and a half-decades, his band became a springboard for many of his sidemen, launching a prominent school of blues performers.

Muddy Waters was born McKinley A. Morganfield on April 4, 1913 at a small enclave in Issaquena County, Mississippi known as Jug’s Corner. Muddy usually cited Rolling Fork as his home. The area, near the Mississippi River, was wet, and his grandmother nicknamed him because of the mud puddles in which he played. Muddy’s mother died when he was very young, and her mother raised him. She moved north to the Stovall Plantation outside of Clarksdale before Muddy was three years old. He stayed there, for the most part, until he was thirty years old.

Animal rescuers in British Columbia came to the rescue of a blue heron that turned out to have a talon stuck inside a giant oyster’s shell. The Dewdney Animal Hospital in Maple Ridge shared a video explaining rescuers responded Saturday to a report of a blue heron that appeared to have its leg caught between rocks in the water off Vancouver’s Stanley Park. The rescuers arrived to find the rocks in question were actually the two halves of a giant oyster’s shell.The post joked that the oyster “got shellfish and clammed up, which really shucked.”

The bird and the oyster attached to its toe were taken to the animal hospital to be separated. Veterinarian Adrian Walton injected fish anesthetic into the oyster’s shell and was then able to pry the shell open and release the heron’s talon. The heron suffered some torn ligaments, so it was fit with a splint and transferred to the Wildlife Rescue Association of British Columbia for rehabilitation. (VIDEO)

7 Travel Destinations for 2026 Nobody’s Talking About (VIDEO)

Please be reminded that Cub Tracks and Bleed Cubbie Blue do not necessarily endorse the content of articles, podcasts, or videos that are linked to in this series.

Mercedes fell from their pedestal in the Miami Grand Prix, needing to fight hard for the race win and missing out on the sprint race victory.

At the start of the season, Mercedes looked poised to dominate the current ruleset, with their power unit fantastic and their engine supplier status helping them get on the front foot for their customers.

However, McLaren, which is also powered by the same engine, made significant development gains in the U.S.’s first stop.

They brought a notable upgrade package, and it seemed to work to a T, with McLaren winning the sprint race and finishing on the two bottom steps of the podium.

In fact, Lando Norris felt like the team’s decision to let Antonelli do the undercut cost him a greater chance at a possible race win.

Seemingly, Mercedes was left so impressed with what McLaren was able to do that they are seeking help.

Mercedes engineers reached out to McLaren

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that after the race, Mercedes engineers asked McLaren for more information about how to handle the latest software iteration of the power unit.

The report is a turn of the tables, as McLaren had complained about not understanding or getting clarity on certain aspects of the engine.

Now, McLaren has gotten a better handle, good enough to the point where Mercedes is the one asking questions.

The software’s understanding reportedly helped the car just as much as the upgrades.

Mercedes still holds the edge

While McLaren has made a step up, team principal Andrea Stella still sees Mercedes as the team that has the advantages.

“I think Mercedes, they still possess a couple of tenths advantage on anybody else,” Stella said.

“This was most noticeable in the race and the Sprint. In the first Sprint section of the weekend, for some reason, Mercedes didn’t express their full potential, and it looked like the other people made bigger-than-expected upgrades.

“But in reality, it was just Mercedes not optimising their potential.”

If McLaren continues to be aggressive in their upgrade profile, Mercedes will need to respond with their own improvements, and their engineering department has not been tested in that aspect.

At the end of last week, Thomas Nestico made the following post and caught many Red Sox fans off guard:

Yes, that’s the Boston Red Sox up near the top of the teams leaderboard in Defensive Runs Saved, and you know what, I don’t think it’s a fluke.

Up until the last handful of days, the quality of the Red Sox defense has been easy to ignore for several reasons. They include, but are not limited to:

• The Red Sox leading the American League in errors during each of the last three seasons before 2026.
• The Red Sox starting off 2026 with the most errors in the AL again over the first couple of weeks (before really cleaning it up of late).
• The team’s dreadful 9-17 record over the first 26 games overshadowing any finer details.
• Roman Anthony getting the yips for the first few series of the year and having a few bad throws go viral.
• Caleb Durbin’s ice cold bat out of the gate obscuring the fact that this dude can really play some defense.

Understandably, the vibes weren’t great. But now we’re a week into May, and with the dust settling, the metrics under the hood don’t just look good, they look really, really good. So good in fact that if the Red Sox can get the top of this rotation healthy with Garrett Crochet, Ranger Suarez and Sonny Gray in the coming weeks, their whole run prevention philosophy just might pay dividends.

Let’s take a more detailed look at what these Defensive Runs Saved figures look like for the ten Red Sox players with the most defensive innings logged so far in 2026 (going into Wednesday night’s game):

Several things jump out here, so let’s take a quick trip around the diamond and understand how the Red Sox might be this good defensively.

First up (and most complex), Roman Anthony — because against all odds, I think the yips or whatever was going on with his throws earlier in the year are actually working to his advantage now. (God I love baseball!) His problem isn’t arm strength (that actually grades out as a weapon with an 89.9mph velocity average), his issue was either mechanical or in his head, leading to a handful of throws so bad they went viral.

However, Roman’s good throws are actually really good. So you’re left with a situation where teams saw the few horrendous throws earlier in the year and wanted to pick on him. But what they’ve actually done in the process is give him more opportunities to throw guys outs, and he’s taken advantage of that, with two assists in one series against the Blue Jays last week. You want a guy that’s impossible to scout against? I give you a left fielder who throws a 35 foot worm burner one week and then nails you from 200 feet away the next.

At the same time, Anthony also makes tremendous reads on the ball off the bat and takes very efficient routes when tracking down fly balls. So even though he’s not the fastest guy in the world and doesn’t make many flashy highlight plays with the leather, he gets to way more balls than you’d otherwise think at first glace. You know how he’s really good at reading a ball out of a pitcher’s hand and therefore knows how to work a bunch of walks at the plate? Well, that’s his superpower all over the diamond. His initial reads are so good that in just 65 career starts in the outfield over both the 2025 and 2026 seasons (37 in right and 35 in left) he’s already racked up a +13 Defensive Runs Saved total.

Is the metric overrating his defense some? Almost certainly yes! But when it comes to the question of whether he’s an above average defensive outfielder, it almost doesn’t matter because anybody who lands this far on the positive side of the spectrum in so few games is good. It’s just a matter of how good when all the details fill in over time. This is a big part of the reason why I was so concerned in early April when he started throwing the ball away. Anthony’s career ceiling is so much higher as an above average defensive outfield as opposed to getting pinned to DH.

Then we have Wilyer Abreu. In his case, we can just go straight to the video for from last night.

This is a prime example of how the Red Sox run prevention strategy can totally alter a game. They ended up pitching a shutout, but if this ball falls in, it’s at least 2-0 and probably 3-0 Detroit in just the second inning.

Great DRS numbers are one thing, but when you see it in practice, working to propel the team to wins on the field, it’s something to get extremely excited about. Abreu is getting it done.

Elsewhere, Caleb Durbin’s been fantastic defensively, and the more you see him work his glove magic, the more you realize it’s not a fluke. In fact, the biggest threat to losing his defense is his bat potentially being so terrible you just can’t afford to keep him in the lineup every day. However, he’s started to hit a tad more lately, and if that’s a sign of things to come, it again bodes well for the Red Sox defense long-term.

On the other infield corner, you have Willson Contreras, who has been as good as the Red Sox could have hoped for at the position. Even if he’s not going to be this good going forward, the former catcher again has enough innings at first base now to know you’re at least going to get some brand of plus defense here as well.

Then from there, you have what I think might be the most exciting part of the calculus. Ceddanne Rafaela and Marcelo Mayer haven’t even hit their defensive strides yet. We know how good Rafaela can be in center, and he hasn’t shown that yet in 2026. Mayer meanwhile can play anywhere in the infield and make it look smooth as butter. While his 2026 numbers don’t jump out in limited innings at second base yet, I’m confident that he’ll not only improve there, but that he’s also capable to taking the reigns from Trevor Story at shortstop at some point. If that happens, you then also potentially improve Trevor Story’s defense with a move to second base, where he was excellent in 2022.

In other words, so much of the momentum driving the Red Sox production in the Defensive Runs Saved department has been on the corners (Durbin, Contreras, Anthony and Abreu), but between Rafaela in center and a swap between Mayer and Story that feels like it needs to come at some point this season, the Red Sox can actually unlock a whole additional level of defense right up the middle of the diamond they haven’t really displayed yet.

Their defense isn’t just good; it has the chance to be above average everywhere. And the deeper we get into the season, the more this is going to matter as game-saving defensive plays are often contagious. If what’s going on under the hood is remotely real, it’s only a matter of time before the Red Sox start stealing a bunch of games with their gloves.

Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny has been asked who he thinks are the best players in the world right now and has been happy to share his thoughts.

Szczesny unsurprisingly mentioned Lamine Yamal but also revealed his admiration for Bayern Munich and France star Michael Olise.

“There are several candidates. I think what Michael Olise is doing this season is exceptional, and Lamine Yamal is putting on a show, and I think that’s the value he adds to football,” he told Eleven Sports.

“Because of him, people will fall in love with football and come to watch the spectacle, not just watch their favorite team play, so that’s definitely his great value. But is he the best in the world? He’s definitely among the best players in the world.”

Yamal finished second to Ousmane Dembele in the 2025 Ballon d’Or at the age of just 18 and will likely be in the running again in 2026 after another impressive season for Barcelona.

Welcome to today’s roundup of New Orleans Saints and NFL news!

Saints defense is getting some much-deserved attention

New additions could be difference makers for the Saints.

New Orleans Saints announce 55-man roster, tryouts for rookie minicamp

Only a day away from rookie minicamp!

5 Trades We Wish We Would Have Seen During 2026 NFL Draft

Would have been a shocking move for the Saints.

It is admittedly easy to get a little bored watching Cameron Boozer. Scouting young basketball players usually offers a sense of discovery, but Boozer has been displaying the same steady dominance since he was 14 years old. There are no frills to his game, just sound decision-making with a well-rounded skill set and a physical style of play. As a high school player, Boozer won four state championships in Florida, three EYBL championships on the Nike grassroots circuit, two gold medals with USA Basketball, and one mythical national championship playing against prep schools from all over the country. His Duke team lost three games by a combined five points all year, and it took a miracle to keep them out of the Final Four. At every stop, Boozer has consistently been the star player driving his team’s success.

Critics will always find a way to excuse Boozer’s mastery. He was overpowering high schoolers. He won’t be able to score over real rim protectors in the pros. NBA forwards are going to burn him with their speed. At least so far, Boozer has been unfazed by any jump in competition despite also being the youngest player on the floor with a July 2007 birthday that will make him the only projected lottery pick who is still 18 years old on draft day.

There are no perfect players, and Boozer is far from perfect. He’s slow, he isn’t a great leaper, and often looks pretty stiff in tight spaces. Of course, you can poke holes in Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Luka Doncic too, and it hasn’t stopped them from being three of the best players of their generation.

Boozer was the best player in college basketball this season as a true freshman, but he isn’t considered the consensus No. 1 overall pick at the top of the 2026 NBA Draft. Classmates A.J Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and Caleb Wilson are excellent prospects in their own rights, and in some ways it’s understandable why people think they will translate to the pros better than Boozer. I’m here to tell you those people are overthinking it. Boozer is the best prospect in the 2026 NBA Draft, and each team that passes on him in the lottery is making a huge mistake.

Boozer has crushed every level of competition. There’s no reason to think it won’t continue in the NBA.

Boozer’s production is unmatched

Boozer became the fifth freshman ever to win the Wooden Award as college basketball’s most outstanding player this season, and it was nearly unanimous with 59 of 61 first-place votes.

Boozer just had college basketball’s second most productive season since basketball-reference started tracking box-score plus/minus. BPM is an all-in-one metric that “estimates a basketball player’s contribution to the team when that player is on the court.” It is not a flawless stat, but it’s one of the better public metrics for capturing individual performance.

Being super productive at a young age against older competition is perhaps the biggest signal of future stardom. The only other freshmen on this list — Williamson, Davis, Flagg, and Holmgren — have all acquitted themselves well in the NBA so far.

Want some diversity in your all-in-one metrics? Boozer also posted the highest single-season RAPM score since Hoop-Exploder started tracking college basketball in 2017-18. RAPM measures a player’s impact on scoring margin to reflect their contribution to team success regardless of numbers in the box score. In short, when Boozer is on the floor, his team consistently wins his minutes. I don’t think that trend is stopping now.

Boozer’s offensive versatility is unmatched

Most players are best when they’re used in certain ways. Not Boozer. The 6’9, 250-pound forward can play a variety of different roles on offense, and excel in all of them. This season at Duke, Boozer spent at least nine percent of his time doing eight different play types, and scored efficiently on all of them.

Yes, Boozer was able to bully college competition on post-ups. He was also awesome at pick-and-roll ball handling, spot-up shooting, offensive rebounding, isolation scoring, cuts, and roll man duties. Here’s the points per possession data on these variety play types, via Synergy Sports. This shows that Boozer won’t be pigeonholed into a role at the next level.

Boozer has a supercomputer brain

Boozer is great in a lot of areas, but his best skill may be his processing. You might be more likely to hear that term when reading about quarterbacks in the NFL Draft, but it’s equally critical in basketball. Star players need to be able internalize a constantly changing set of variables in a split second and use it to maximize their win probability on any given possession. Boozer does this better than any 18-year-old forward you will ever see.

Boozer is such a good scorer that he commands a lot of defensive attention. It only makes him more deadly as a passer. He’s the sort of player who never forces his own offense, and instead just wants to make the right play. Watch this possession, where Boozer turns a post-up into an alley-oop dunk by manipulating the weakside defender with his eyes to make him think the pass is going to the corner.

Look at this pass against national champion Michigan where Boozer sucks in the help as a driver before bailing out at the very last second to create an open wing three for his teammate:

Boozer’s 25.6 percent assist is a tremendous mark for a freshman with his size, and I’m even more impressed by his 3.6 rim assists per 100 possessions. Rim assists are the most valuable pass you can make on the court because there’s a greater chance of completing the play than with a longer jump shot.

Here’s how Boozer compares as a passer to his other peers projected to be drafted in the top-10.

Only Flemings is a better playmaker among the elite prospects in this class, and he’s a smaller guard at 6’3. Boozer doesn’t have to play on the ball (more on that later), but when he does, you can trust him to make excellent decisions.

Boozer’s physicality is top notch

Boozer exited Duke’s shocking Elite Eight loss to UConn with “a couple fractures” in his face and scratches all over his arms. His opponents got it just as badly as he did he all year. Boozer consistently uses his 250-pound frame to his advantage, and it shows up mostly in his rebounding, screen setting, hard rolls to the rim, and ability to get to the foul line.

Boozer is going to generate a lot of extra possessions on the offensive glass. His 12.5 percent offensive rebound rate ranked in the 97th percentile for prospects in this draft class, per DraftBallr. On this possession, Boozer creates the open corner three for a teammate, works to get into rebound position, and finishes it with a putback after he grabs the offensive board.

Boozer uses his physicality to consistently muscle his way into free throws, too. Getting the foul line is a star skill in the NBA, and Boozer has it. On this play, he’s acting as the roll man and finishes over Rueben Chinyelu for the and-one. Chinyelu is listed at 6’10, 265 pounds with a 7’8 wingspan, which would make him one of the longest and heaviest players in the NBA. Boozer still invited the contact and got the bucket.

Boozer’s 53.6 percent free throw rate ranks in the 89th percentile of the class, per DraftBallr. You can count on him to make his freebies too with a 79 percent stroke from the foul line on 280 attempts.

Boozer will shoot at a high level in the NBA

Boozer’s free throw percentage is a sign of strong touch, and his range extends to the NBA three-point line. This season, he made 39.1 percent of his 138 three-pointers. He’s going to be a weapon on pick-and-pops from day one while also being able to space the floor as a spot-up shooter.

Boozer had 147 possessions as a jump shooter this year and scored 1.12 points per possession, which ranked in the 86th percentile of the country. He’s at his best as a shooter when a teammate sets him up. Boozer scored 1.22 PPP on his catch-and-shoot attempts this year, posting impressive 61.2 percent true shooting on this opportunities. He has easy NBA range on his jumper when he gets squared up.

Boozer can hit shots over contests despite a slower release. On 41 possessions this season, he went 16-of-25 and scored 1.17 PPP on “contest jumpers,” according to Synergy.

He does have some limiting factors as a shooter right now. He’s not a super high volume three-point chucker after taking 6.5 threes per 100 possessions this season. He’ll want to bump up that two or three more in the pros. He’s also not a natural shooter off the dribble yet. He scored 0.90 PPP on dribble jumpers this year, which ranked in the 65th percentile and merely rated as “good” — a rarity on Boozer’s profile.

The pull-up jumper is a superstar skill, and Boozer will need to develop it to reach his highest-end outcomes. It’s also going to be an important counter when he’s not fast enough to beat his man off the dribble. Here’s one example of Boozer ripped a step-back three after his drive was denied against Louisville. If he do this with more consistency, his offensive ceiling is going to be through the roof.

Boozer can drive really well for a 250-pound forward

Boozer’s simple-yet-effective driving is one of the best parts of his game. He can be trusted to run pick-and-roll or attack a smaller defender on isolations, and the threat of his downhill scoring opens up opportunities to make plays as a live dribble passer. While he doesn’t have a ton of counters in the middle of the floor, he can usually rely on his bully ball game to get to the line if all else fails.

When a guard screens for Boozer, he knows how to punish switches by running over smaller defenders. Even without crazy pop off the floor as a leaper, he’s still able to square himself to the basket, and he has the touch to make below-the-rim finishes.

Boozer made 64.5 percent of his rim attempts this season with 57 percent of them coming unassisted. He doesn’t need to play as a full-time point forward because he’s so good in so many other areas, but he can take on those duties in a pinch if his team needs it.

Boozer is already pretty good at driving and finishing with either hand. He’s not the most agile driver, but he has step-throughs and Eurosteps when he needs them.

Boozer almost never settles from mid-range. He only took 52 two-point attempts all season away from the rim. When he has the ball, he’s going to the hole or kicking out to a teammate to space the floor. You could argue not having a mid-range game hurts Boozer’s NBA translation if he’s expected to be in a star role — the mid-range is said to be the domain of superstars — but non-rim twos are also the least efficient shot any player can take. The fact that he prioritizes a ‘Moreyball’ shot-profile is a wonderful thing for a player this young.

Boozer’s outlet passing will boost transition offense

Boozer has been throwing dimes in transition going back to his high school days. He’s such a dependable defensive rebounder, and when he gets to the ball he’s always looking to hunt for quick-hit opportunities in transition.

Boozer impacts winning in so many areas

Boozer’s combination of usage, scoring volume, and efficiency at such a young age is a strong star indicator. This year, he scored 40.3 points per 100 possessions on 65.3 percent true shooting with a 30.6 percent usage rate. A team can run their offense through him and reap the rewards, but he can also thrive in an off-ball role as a floor spacer, rebounder, and connective passer.

Boozer is going to be a plus in the possession game. He’s an outstanding rebounder for a power forward on both ends of the floor. His 14.7 percent turnover rate and +1.6 assist-to-turnover ratio aren’t the strongest numbers …. but it’s still better than Dybantsa (15 percent turnover rate with +1.2 assist-to-turnover ratio) while clearing Peterson in A/TO. He got to the foul line more than Dybantsa or Peterson, too.

Boozer is not super long or super athletic. He will allow blow-bys defensively that compromise his team’s structure. He’s going to have some games where he’s not finishing well at the rim in the halfcourt. He’ll probably need to tighten his handle so he doesn’t get picked trying to run over smaller NBA defenders.

Even if you allow for all of that, Boozer is still the best player in the class because when the ball hits his hands, his team gets a good shot. He thinks the game at a high level, he has impressive touch as a shooter from all over the floor, and he plays a physical style that will translate well when the game slows down in the playoffs. He’s able to vacillate between all these roles on the same possession and still maximize his team’s chances of scoring.

This play shows Boozer’s versatility on different play types, his motor to keep hunting an advantage, and his quick processing ability.

Boozer is a better shooter than Dybantsa, a better playmaker than Peterson, and a much better rebounder than both. There also might not be a stronger player in this draft class. Even if he’s just hoping to get to average defensively, he still has quick hands and sharp instincts to make some plays on that end. If nothing else, he’s great at ending defensive possessions with a rebound.

The 2026 NBA Draft class is stacked with talent inside the top-4, but Boozer stands alone. Taking anyone else with the top pick will be a regrettable decision.

While most had Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor in the first-round conversation entering the 2026 NFL Draft, not many thought that the Pittsburgh Steelers would be the team to take him off the board — not even Iheanachor’s college coach.

This week, I had the pleasure of chatting with Saga Tuitele, Arizona State’s offensive line coach, who joined the Sun Devils from Fresno State in 2022. Tuitele coached Iheanachor for every season the latter spent in the FBS, from 2023-2025.

Tuitele was still on the Bulldogs’ staff when he first discovered Iheanachor, who was then a junior college tackle fresh into his football career. Iheanachor was born in Nigeria and didn’t move to the United States until he was 13. He played soccer growing up and didn’t switch to football until college — but under Tuitele’s coaching at ASU, Iheanachor finished his 2025 season Second Team All-Big 12.

I chatted with Tuitele about discovering Iheanachor while scouting a different lineman, his reaction to the Steelers’ pick, and what has stood out about Iheanachor as a player and person.

This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and length.

Ryland Bickley: We all kind of assumed that Max was going to be a first-round pick, but he wasn’t really mocked to end up in Pittsburgh. Did him landing with the Steelers shock you at all? Or did you kind of see that coming?

Saga Tuitele: No, honestly, I didn’t see it coming. You know, you see the projections and stuff like that, but I didn’t think it was going to be the Steelers. It’s funny, we were standing next to each other, and when his phone rang, whoever called him from the Steelers had a Philadelphia number. So I was like, “Oh s—-, the Eagles, here we go,” you know? And then, they had moved up in the draft.

I was like, “OK, it’s going” and then they drafted someone else. I was like, “Whoa, what the hell.” And then Max motioned to grab the Steelers hat. And I was like, “Oh, OK.” So I had no, no idea that they were going to draft him. And you never really do, but it was awesome,

RB: I was curious, how connected were the Steelers to Max leading up to the draft? Like, do you think that having Hines Ward on staff at ASU helped them get info on him at all, or was there not too much to read into there?

ST: No, I don’t know. I mean, most of the teams are very professional. I will say that I know I talked to the scouts multiple occasions throughout their process, from his junior year all the way through. But honestly, I’m assuming they leaned on Hines a little bit. But like I said, they played it close to the vest. And I don’t  remember seeing anybody saying that they were gonna pick him back at that pick. 

RB: Moving back a bit, reading up on Max was really cool. I mean, as you obviously know, he didn’t play football growing up, then he goes the JUCO route. Tell me a bit about how you found him at East Los Angeles College.

ST: Well, I was looking at someone else, honestly. I was at Fresno State at the time, and you know, we were looking for an older tackle, more experienced. We were in the middle of our Mountain West championship run that year, and we were going to lose some seniors. So we were looking for an older tackle, and on his team, there was a young man on the team that had some experience and then it’s just like, “Well, who the hell is that kid over there? ”

And it was just, you know, big athlete that didn’t really know what he was doing, but you can tell had some good balance, good feet, obviously, the good size. He wasn’t as thick as he is now, but, you know, good, big calves, the big size, and the big backside and long arms. And if you put some weight on this kid and he figures it out, he might be something special. 

So, you know, just getting to know the kid and seeing what his drive was, I think, kind of put it all together.

RB: When you first brought Max into practice, when did you really realize that you had a future starter in him?

ST: His ability to move, his quickness, you know, and he has natural power. But just when you see him move, and a big man like that in drills — now, remember, he was raw, so he didn’t know what he’s doing. And so you had to really focus on, “OK, what can he do?” I mean, it’s easy to point out what the kid can’t do – he can’t do this, he can’t do this. That’s easy. Anybody can do it. 

But, you know, I thought we did a great job of, “OK, what can he do?” He can move his feet. He can stay pretty balanced, you know, he doesn’t overextend. OK, let’s focus on that and give him confidence in that part of it, instead of figuring out what he can’t do.

And then, once we realize athletically that he can change direction and he can bend his knees a little bit. And again, I use that term “balance,” and he just, he always got a good feel of being off – whether he was overextended, or whether he was getting pushed back, he always found himself back to a strong position. 

So, you know, we also knew it’s gonna take a while, because of where he came from. But, we thought we were spot on in our evaluation of him, as long as he had that same drive, which he did.

RB: For sure. And he got a pretty early start for you guys in 2023, right?

ST: Yeah, injuries, and it was our first year on staff with that team, at Arizona State. And we knew we had some injuries and he had to thrust into, I think it was Game 2, Oklahoma State, and (we) said, “Alright, Max, it’s like practice.” And, you know, he took it and I think he did a good job of overcoming some of the tough things that happened to him.

RB: I’m not sure if you read any of them, but there’s like a million scouting reports about Max online. You know, draft season is this crazy media circus. But, is there a part of his game or something that you feel like people haven’t really talked about a lot in this draft cycle?

ST: No, I mean, I’ve seen some of them, and I think it’s spot on. I mean, he’s got big hands. I think his football IQ is further along than what people think. In some of the Senior Bowl stuff – and just even, our offense is pretty complex – and so for him to pick it up, and for him to be able to do what he did at a high level. …

But I think the term “raw” is by timeline only. You know, he can call our offense just like if he was the center; he can make all the blocking calls and stuff like that. So, probably a little bit, you know, the whole “raw” thing was just because he started so late in football.

RB: Most of my questions have been about Max as a player, but I did want to ask about Max as a person. I mean, I listened to his starting presser with the Steelers. He just seemed really down to earth and like a cool guy. I mean, what kind of person is Pittsburgh getting? Do you have a favorite memory of hanging out with Max?

ST: You know, the first time I met him, he said his name, and I just was like, “What’s your name? How do you say it?” And then, myself having a unique last name and first name as well. And I just remember him saying his name and he and I talking about the importance of pride in our last names. 

I said it’s unique. And I said, don’t feel disrespected if a coach or a person mispronounces your name; they don’t know. Same thing is, you know, don’t be afraid to correct them on the correction of your name. So I just remember having that conversation with him. I said, “Man, you are Max Iheanachor.” And just, you know, smiling about it. Just like, my name is a little bit unique. 

And so you get a guy who’s gonna give it his all. He’s great. He’s grateful being here. He’s grateful (for) the opportunity to play football, and, you know, I know he’s going to give it his all for his city and for his team. And the thing that Max is, is he’s driven like he wants to be the best, and everything that we’ve asked him to do, and every obstacle that he’s been thrown, he’s been able to overcome it. 

I think one of his best attributes is the ability to respond through good and bad. So I think you’re getting the kid that loves ball, loves where he’s at, appreciated where he’s at, and he was gonna give it his all and fit in and make the Steeler nation proud.

RB: In that same presser, the Steelers head coach (Mike McCarthy) kept talking about how important versatility was on his O-line. I know that Max was primarily a right tackle for you guys, but how versatile is he? Where can he fit in on this line?

ST: He can play in both positions. You know, he can play right or left tackle. Max is the kind of kid, if coach wants him to play guard, he’ll jump right in and he’ll fight, and he’ll figure it out. So I think his versatility, and because (of) his football IQ – and he knows what to do and how to do it – and he knows how to learn, he knows how to do a lot of that stuff. I think that’s going to help him.

RB: Where do you hope to see Max take his game next, now that he’s in the NFL?

ST: Well, I know he’s going to continue to strive to be the best, and he’s going to have some lumps, but I’m not worried about the lumps, because you can’t grow without the lumps, and he’s able to respond to that. 

So, you know, all I hope is that he stays healthy and he continues to improve and make Steeler nation proud, because that’s what his mindset is. He wants to make sure that he’s representing his family and his junior college and his Arizona State, but also Steeler nation.

You can read more about Saga Tuitele’s work at Arizona State here.

Good morning, baseball fans!

We are in the middle of a new feature for May that I’m calling the “12 Days of Mays-mas” because I won’t be around for this week, and I want to leave you guys with some fun things to watch while I’m gone.

For the seventh day of Mays-mas, I thought we would continue in our series of no-hitters and revisit Tim Lincecum’s first no-hitter against the San Diego Padres in 2013. This one was on the road, and it was a blood bath on both ends, with the Giants scoring nine runs and taking the stress off early and Lincecum himself dealing and crushing the hopes and dreams of Padres players hoping to not get embarrassed.

I know we revisit this one fairly often, but honestly can you ever really watch these too many times? (I will make an attempt to give it a good long rest before we do these again, I promise.)

In the meantime, grab your coffee, settle in, and enjoy!

What time do the Giants play today?

The Giants are off today, but they will welcome the Pittsburgh Pirates to Oracle Park tomorrow to begin a three-game series.

I’ve been a lifelong Cubs fan, so to see them win their 13th straight at Wrigley is awesome. If you want them to lose at home, I have an idea…send me. I’ve been to the friendly confines 7 times and yet to see them win. I’ve seen them lose to the Astros, Reds, Giants (x2), Dodgers (x2) and the Brewers. Just one time I want to see the Cubs win so I can sing “Go Cubs Go”.

Meanwhile, the Husker softball team invades the land of the Turtles to try and win a Big Ten Tournament title. After winning the regular season, the Huskers will carry the number 1 seed and #2 ranking in the country into Maryland and hopefully cruise through the rest of the week. The duo of Jordy Frahm and Alexis Jensen have been great in the circle, while the Husker offense has obliterated most of the other pitching staffs. Here’s to the softball team, and here are your flakes…

NEBRASKA:

BIG TEN TOURNAMENT – #2 NEBRASKA vs. MICHIGAN Preview: How to Watch/Listen & More

What Nebraska Softball Needs to Do to Host a Super Regional

A breakdown of what Nebraska softball must do to host an NCAA Super Regional, including rankings, resume strength and remaining opportunities. Plus info on the Big Ten Tournament.

Nebraska softball to host free NCAA selection show watch party Sunday

Nebraska Announces Contract Extensions for Several Key Men’s Basketball Staff Members

IN OTHER SPORTS:

Third time’s a charm! Cubs’ trifecta of walk-offs extends home streak to 14

Cubs’ Matthew Boyd injures meniscus while playing with his kids

Tigers pitcher Framber Valdez accepts 5-game suspension for throwing at Red Sox’s Trevor Story

Jalen Brunson, Knicks pull out win for 2-0 lead vs. 76ers

Flyers Set to Benefit from Maple Leafs NHL Draft Lottery Win

Doan, McLeod spark Sabres to win against Canadiens in Game 1 of Eastern 2nd Round

THEN THERE’S THIS:

Mayo Clinic’s AI Can Detect Pancreatic Cancer up to 3 Years Before Diagnosis–When Treatment is Still Possible

Papyrus Fragment of Homer’s Iliad Found in 1600–Year-old Mummy is First Time Literature is Discovered in a Burial

JOKE OF THE WEEK:

I asked the surgeon if I could administer my own anesthesia, he said “Sure, knock yourself out”.

Last year, the Denver Broncos floated the idea of Evan Engram being a ‘joker’ for their offense. All offseason, the hope was that veteran tight end would be a significant difference maker for the Broncos’ offense. It had been years since the franchise had seen significant production at the position.

Sadly, Engram wasn’t a needle mover at all. He struggled to make waves in his first year in Denver. In sixteen games, Denver’s highly touted free agent acquisition hauled in only 50 catches for 461 yards and 1 touchdown. The yardage and touchdown output were some of the worst of his career.

Just nineteen of those receptions went for first down and he sported just a 65-percent catch rate when targeted—several points lower than his career average. Additionally, his eight drops were the second-worst of his career. Sporting a 10.5-percent drop rate was the highest of any season to date.

Entering his tenth season in the National Football League, the Broncos’ 2026 campaign will likely be the last for Engram in the Mile High City. Accounting for just over $14 million on the team’s salary cap, all of Broncos Country is looking to see more from him this season.

Player Profile

Age: 31 | Experience: Tenth Year | College: Ole Miss | Height: 6’3” | Weight: 240 pounds

Arm Length: 33-1/2” | Hand Size: 10” | Broad: 10’5” | Vertical: 36” | Bench: 19 reps

40-yard dash: 4.42 seconds | 20-Yard Shuttle: 4.23 seconds | 3-Cone: 6.92 seconds

Evan Engram’s 2026 outlook with the Broncos

Engram enters the ’26 season as one of the top two tight ends on the roster alongside Adam Trautman. Trautman is Denver’s prototypical ‘Y’ inline tight end, while Engram operates as Denver’s ‘F’ or move option in their offense. Last year, he often was flexed out as a big slot for them.

With Head Coach Sean Payton surrendering playcalling duties, it will be interesting to see if Offensive Coordinator Davis Webb dials up more plays to go Engram’s way. He had 76 targets last season, ranking third behind Courtland Sutton and Troy Franklin. However, the addition of wide receiver Jaylen Waddle will certainly change up the volume numbers for everyone on offense.

That being said, it’s hard to believe there will be a substantial increase in target share for the tenth-year pro. What I’m hoping for is that Engram is able to reduce his drop rate and be more efficient on the looks he does get on offense. Though I will say there were numerous times he was open last year operating over the middle of the field, yet Bo Nix wasn’t able to step up in the pocket and deliver him.

Final Thoughts

Denver’s upcoming gridiron campaign is likely Engram’s last in the Mile High City. They drafted Justin Joly in the fifth-round in the 2026 NFL Draft. I believe Joly has the skillset and traits to eventually replace what Engram offers on the offense. Additionally, they picked Dallen Bentley late in the seventh-round as another developmental tight end for their offense. All things considered, I do believe Engram will perform better this year, though unlikely his overall production meets the hefty price tag he costs against the salary cap.

After returning this season with largely the same roster of players as they had last year, the New York Yankees have shot to the top of the American League standings once again.

The team has the most home runs in Major League Baseball, as well as the most total runs, hits and RBI in the American League. And the Yankees have the best team ERA in all of baseball, with frontline starters Carlos Rodon and Gerrit Cole set to return from injuries in the near future.

New York Yankees Demote Former Gold Glove Shortstop After Rehab

All told, the Yankees are doing so well this season that they opted not to disrupt the momentum by bringing back long-time shortstop Anthony Volpe when he became available late last week.

“They reinstated Volpe from his rehab assignment and, instead of calling him up to the major-league roster, they demoted him to Triple-A Scranton,” Deesha Thosar wrote for FOX Sports. “While (replacement shortstop Jose) Caballero’s stock started to rise over the past few weeks, the Yankees have become a machine.”

New York Yankees Shortstop Anthony Volpe Called Out For Mistake In Triple-A Game

With that machine churning, there’s no clear timeline for a return to the big leagues for Volpe. An injury, a downturn in the standings or regression by Caballero could change things, as could a sudden surge by Volpe.

But on Wednesday, Volpe was caught making a mistake on the basepaths that won’t help raise his stock.

“Looks like Anthony Volpe didn’t realize there were two outs?” popular Yankees media outlet “Talkin’ Yanks” posted on X, formerly Twitter, alongside a clip from the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders game against the Worcester Red Sox on Wednesday.

The clip showed Volpe being held at third base after running slowly from first base following a two-out double off of the outfield wall by Yankees prospect Spencer Jones. Inexplicably, Volpe slowed down as he rounded second base. That might be because he thought the ball was a home run, or because he wasn’t aware of the game situation.

“I’m not sure how Volpe didn’t score here,” the Red Sox commentator noted, per the clip. “Look at him slow up as he gets to second base. Did he think this was gone? I mean, two outs, you’ve got to be moving. And he slows up at second base, caught looking at the ball. I’m not sure exactly what he’s doing here.”

Ultimately, the RailRiders won the game in extra innings and Yankees officials might chalk up the gaffe to a temporary and excusable lapse in awareness from the shortstop. But following a disappointing campaign last year and with a big-league roster that is thriving in his absence, Volpe can hardly afford to make many more mistakes if he wants his demotion to end.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

For casual basketball fans, watching the WNBA can be a stark surprise, as the league has traditionally permitted a lot of physicality. The NBA, in contrast, allows far less physicality than the W.

But, it seems like the WNBA is adapting and that the league will be much less physical going forward. One way this will be accomplished is by discouraging hard fouls, in addition to new officiating points of emphasis.

Here’s what we’ve learned about how the W is trying to cut down on physicality, along with the opinions of prominent coaches and players.

Hard fouls will now come with higher fines for WNBA players

According Colin Salao for Front Office Sports, both technical and flagrant fouls will have a significant increase in fines.

Technical fouls

The new technical foul fine structure for the regular season is:

• Technical Foul 1–3: $500 fine each
• Technical Foul 4–7: $1,000 fine each, plus a warning letter from the league issued after the 5th technical
• Technical Foul 8: $1,500 fine, plus a one-game suspension

Last year, the fines began at $200, rose to $400 for a player’s fourth through sixth technicals and maxed out $800 for a seventh tech and beyond. Now, players will also be suspended for the eighth technical, and every other technical thereafter.

In the playoffs, a player’s tech count will reset. However, the fine structure is steeper:

• Technical Foul 1–2: $500 fine each
• Technical Foul 3: $1,000 fine, plus a warning letter from the league
• Technical Foul 4: $1,500, plus a one-game suspension

Flagrant fouls

Flagrant fouls are adjudicated through a points system: a Flagrant 1 counts for one point and a Flagrant 2 counts for two points.

A player will be fined $500 for every Flagrant point; last year, the fine was $200 per Flagrant point. At four Flagrant points, a player will be automatically suspended for one game. If a player is at three total Flagrant points and is called for a Flagrant 2, they will be suspended for two games. At six Flagrant points, a player will also receive at two-game suspension.

Most WNBA coaches and players want the league to be less physical

By hurting players in their pockets, they’ll likely think twice when making an aggressive defensive play.

But, a less-physical WNBA is not just the about the increase in fines for hard fouls. Coaches and players from around the league are talking about a need to tone down the excessive defense, something that will be encouraged with officials allowing for freedom of movement for offensive players.

Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve even went so far as to say the amount of physicality in the game is currently too much, sharing:

While they were hard at work on the (CBA), we were hard at work on the state of the game… We don’t want the level of physicality that we’ve seen in our game … We play beautiful basketball in the W. We Gotta make sure it’s not marred by unnecessary physical contact.

In an exclusive interview with NPR, Napheesa Collier went beyond her head coach’s words, saying that people don’t come to WNBA games for defense and want to see offense.

She suggested the WNBA was like 1980s NBA basketball in a critical manner, saying, among other things:

The game is too physical right now. I think that’s been a complaint of players and coaches alike for the past several years. We’ve been compared to the NBA of the 80s, in just our physicality. And I do think that hinders the players obviously. You come to watch players play offense and to score. When it’s so physical, the game is not fun to watch and it’s not fun to play.

After a recent practice, Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon also elaborated on the league’s points of emphasis that are focused on cleaning up the game and making it less physical this year compared to last season.

While some fans might like the game the way it is, it’s evident that change is coming. The league wants it, and key coaches and players are calling for it.

This opening week of games, seeing how contests are officiated will be interesting, although it will take time to tell if these changes are impactful, or just early-season chatter. However, this is shaping up to be a potential inflection point in the WNBA.

What are your thoughts? Are you in favor of these changes? Do you think they will be implemented successfully and equitably, or do you anticipate new issues emerging? Which teams and players do you expect to benefit? Who will have to adapt? Spill all your opinions in the comments!

The Cardinals had found their replacement for Ozzie Smith, but you don’t actually want to be the guy who replaces the legend. You want to be the guy after that. Poor Royce Clayton, who had to follow his childhood idol, and was perfectly cromulent, but he wasn’t Ozzie Smith. Targeted for free agency and with the Cardinals looking for a new direction, they traded Clayton (along with Todd Stottlemyre) at the deadline in 1998. It was a good trade. They received a couple years of Fernando Tatis senior, later traded for a package that included Steve Kline, and Darren Oliver, who had his best season as a starter in 1999.

But this was not a Brendan Donovan got traded and JJ Wetherholt was ready to step in situation. They Cardinals did not have an in-house replacement for Clayton. Their first choice was Barry Larkin, who was apparently unhappy, because the Reds had just traded Bret Boone, and Larkin was promised the Reds would build around him and Larkin. I think it had less to do with Boone, who honestly wasn’t that good at the time, and more as Larkin puts it: “I feel as if I’m being held hostage by a team with no immediate plans to be competitive.”

Larkin had a no-trade clause, but was willing to be traded to five teams, which included the Cardinals. That’s interesting because the Cardinals did not have a particularly good 90s and didn’t have a good 1999 season either, although Larkin would have helped. But I’ll give some credit to Jim Bowden, who didn’t seem to usually make smart moves. He held out for JD Drew and Rick Ankiel. Larkin had one great year and one good year left, so that would have been a bad trade by the Cardinals. Walt Jocketty thought so too.

So they pivoted. And this is really why I’m writing the article. Because there are a few confusing aspects of the Edgar Renteria trade that followed. It’s the kind of trade that reveals how different front offices operated as it pertained to value than today’s game. The structure of that trade would not get made today. Decisions made prior to that trade would not get made today either.

And it starts with Braden Looper. Looper was the 3rd overall pick in the 1996 MLB Draft out of Wichita State University. Highest draft pick the Cardinals have ever had. And they drafted him that high knowing, essentially, that he would be a reliever. I mean they envisioned a closer, but still. What is the absolute highest round a team will draft someone knowing they will be a reliever now? We all knew the Cardinals would convert Tanner Franklin to starting specifically because of how high he was drafted and he was drafted 72nd. Looper was the THIRD OVERALL PICK.

He did start games at first, but barely. He signed late in the 1996 season, so he didn’t pitch in his draft year. This wasn’t for modern reasons like saving his arm, the draft pick signing deadline was VERY late in the season and a lot of the high picks used all of that time to come to an agreement. He started 12 games at High A in 1997, wasn’t particularly impressive, and then they converted him to reliever. After 12 starts. They promoted him to AA and also moved him to the bullpen at the same time. He honestly still wasn’t that good.

So of course, he made the team out of spring training in 1998. They gave him all of 4 games before they sent him to Memphis. All of this is impossible to wrap my head around. They used a high draft pick and immediately converted him to relief. And with not very good minor league stats and not even at AAA, he made the majors, and they were so confident in this decision that he got demoted after 4 games. He actually struck out 25% of the batters he faced, which is like 30% nowadays, but gave up 4 runs (2 were not earned). He spent the rest of the year in Memphis.

He’s not the only weird part of that trade. Looper wasn’t actually the highest rated prospect in the trade. Which doesn’t sound that weird when I describe Looper the player, but he was the 23rd best prospect in Baseball America. There was no doubt he was a reliever when they ranked him. It is not strange that there was a more valuable prospect than him, but somehow the player ranked above him was weirder.

Pablo Ozuna was the #8 prospect in baseball when this trade was made according to Baseball America. Walt Jocketty got extremely lucky on this one. The Cardinals had signed Ozuna at 16-years-old in 1996 out of the Dominican Republic and if you go to his stats page, you will notice he was not actually 16 in 1996. He could have graduated college in 1996. He was actually 22-years-old.

This was not known at the time of the trade. As far as anybody knew, Ozuna was about to be 19 in 1999. He had just batted .357 in Low A and had stolen 62 bases. In reality, he was 23-years-old and also he got caught stealing 26 times. Which is a horrible success rate. And I guess teams didn’t learn what a good success rate was, because he was allowed to be a bad base stealer for his whole career.

So we have the #8 prospect in baseball and the #23 prospect in baseball, but it was a magic act. It was a soon-to-be 24-year-old who hadn’t played above A ball and a relief pitcher. There was a third player involved, but he had to be considered a throw-in. I can’t imagine this guy had real value then. Armando Almanza was a soon-to-be 26-year-old left-handed relief pitcher with swing-and-miss stuff but spotty control who hadn’t actually pitched in the majors yet.

For two relief pitchers, one of whom is barely a prospect, and a super old for his level infielder who is bad at stealing bases, the Cardinals received four years of 22-year-old shortstop who had 3.5 fWAR as a 19-year-old and then kind of underwhelmed in his next two seasons. You could not ask for a better trade or a better acquisition for the future.

Baseball Prospectus, weirdly obsessed with him maybe being a year younger than he said (it’s mentioned in SIX of their yearly profiles), said this about Renteria: “Good comparisons would be Barry Larkin or Alan Trammell: the power should keep getting better; he’ll take a few more walks and have a shot at an MVP award someday. While he isn’t an ideal leadoff man, the Cardinals don’t have many alternatives.”

Didn’t quite work out that way, although he did have a couple All-Star caliber seasons. After 1999, the Cardinals signed him to a four-year extension with two club options. They picked up his 2004 option, but confusingly apparently the 2005 option was voided because they waited too long to pick up the 2004 option. If anybody has any information on that, I would love to know. I have not heard that one in baseball before. David Eckstein ended up being better than Renteria in 2005, so it worked out, but I definitely would have done one more year with Renteria. They tried to sign him in free agency too, so this wasn’t a no interest situation.

Anyway, this is a perfect Walt Jocketty trade and also… a very lucky Walt Jocketty trade. I really doubt he knew Pablo Ozuna was older than he said. Ozuna’s real age was revealed in 2002 thanks to the September 11th attacks, when foreign-born players had to show their birth certificate to apply for a work visa. Nearly 300 players saw their birthdays change from this. Overnight Ozuna was four years older and a utility player, not a highly touted prospect. And he also did draft Looper 3rd overall, so it’s not like he didn’t agree with the consensus that relievers could be very valuable.

But I will also say for a guy who was known for trading for veterans, our past looks a lot different if he decides to trade for Barry Larkin. Renteria was, mostly, not as good as you remember, because his bat wasn’t very good in his Cardinals tenure – the run environment then was crazy in the steroid era – however he did peak more in line with when the Cardinals were genuine title contenders. Larkin had already peaked, although he did have a peak season left in 1999, but that wouldn’t have made the Cardinals a playoff team.

More importantly, they held onto JD Drew who later net the Cardinals Adam Wainwright. Imagine that alternate history where the Cardinals get Larkin! He would have pivoted, but it is very difficult to imagine the last 25 years going as well as they did if they made that Larkin trade.

LIV stars are eyeing the exit door after the Saudi Public Investment Fund withdrew support for next season.

Bryson DeChambeau has been seen speaking to PGA Tour officials, exploring his options about a potential return that the tour is unwilling to offer him, and others seeking a return, the same deal that was offered to Brooks Koepka this year.

Koepka came back to the PGA Tour this season under a specific set of circumstances. He paid $5 million to charity and agreed not to receive sponsor exemptions to Signature Events or FedEx Cup bonus money.

That same deal was offered to DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, and Cameron Smith, but they didn’t accept it by the deadline set by the tour. The PGA Tour made clear that this was a one-time only offer.

But should this offer be given to DeChambeau and Rahm once again, now that LIV’s future is in doubt? World number three Cameron Young shared his thoughts.

Cameron Young said it won’t be ‘as simple’ for Bryson DeChambeau to return to the PGA Tour

Cameron Young has broken out as the PGA Tour’s newest star with an incredible season so far in 2026. He won The Players and The Cadillac Championship, and went head-to-head with Rory McIlroy down the stretch at The Masters.

And with that newfound star status, he’s now facing questions about the future of LIV players like DeChambeau and Rahm. His take is that it won’t be as simple for them as it was for Koepka, who was the only one to take the original offer.

Speaking on the Pat McAfee show, he said, “I feel like it’s a little bit tricky because I think it’s been great to have Brooks back. He’s a fan favorite. He’s a great golfer. Great major championship player. So, I’m happy to have him back. I think it’s good for the PGA Tour. I think it’s good for the game to get to see him more.

“But I mean, the tour did have the system that they put in place for him. They had the opportunity this January for some of those guys, a select few, to come back. And Brooks was the only one to take that opportunity.

“So now, I mean, it’s not up to me, but I think the PGA Tour, I imagine, they will find a way for some of those guys to come back, but I don’t know if it will be as simple as it was for Brooks. His relatively time-wise, he didn’t have to sit out or anything like that.

“So, I really have no good information on what will happen. But all in all, I mean, I play golf to play golf against the best players in the world. That’s one of the main things that drives me, is to is to compete.

“And I don’t know, to me, there’s a handful of really, really good players that are over there, and seeing them four times a year, I’d probably rather compete against them more. So, if you’re asking me, I’d probably like to see them back in some capacity, however they decide that’s going to work out.

“And you’d like it to be fair to both sides. I think I don’t think there’s any reason to unduly punish them coming back, but at the same time, like you said, you know, it felt like kind of an all or nothing decision to go.

“So, up to people smarter than me to figure out how it all is going to work out.”

What Brian Rolapp said about Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm returning to the PGA Tour

PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp was recently asked about this very subject. He made an appearance on the Trey Wingo podcast and spoke on LIV Golf’s current state and the future of its players on the PGA Tour.

He said he’s none the wiser on the future of LIV Golf now it has lost PIF funding. Rolapp said,

“I’m like everybody else, I’m just reading things as they come across. I don’t know what’s going on. It would be premature for me to speculate, so I don’t have a lot to say. I just see the same stories everybody else sees.

“As I’ve said, we’re pretty focused on what we’re doing here and how we’re making the PGA Tour better, so that’s clearly where my focus is.”

He also isn’t yet willing to say what deal he would offer DeChambeau and Rahm if they were to seek a return.

Rolapp added, “I’ve always said on this subject, I’m interested in doing whatever makes the PGA Tour better. Fans want the best players playing together. I’ve always said that from day one when I took the job.

“Having said that, I don’t know what the circumstances are. Once there’s clarity, we’ll cross that bridge, but we’re clearly not there yet.”

If Rolapp doesn’t know what the deal is, then it’s not likely to be the same as the one Koepka received. There’s a lot to work out in the coming months.

Welcome to Cosmo Sports, our series where we get unprecedented, all-day access to some of the most influential names in collegiate and professional athletics. We capture a full day in their lives to give you a deeper sense of who they are, not just what they do.

It feels like every time I see Breanna Stewart, she’s celebrating with a cigar hanging out of her mouth.

It’s early March in Miami and Stewie, as she’s affectionately known by teammates and fans alike, is sitting at a press conference table, so fresh off of winning the Unrivaled Championship (the three-on-three pro league for players to compete in during the WNBA’s offseason) with her team Mist BC that her champion t-shirt thrown over her jersey is soaked with sweat. She also secured Unrivaled Finals MVP—all in just the second year of the league she cofounded. So if anyone deserves a cigar and champagne sprays, it’s her.

“That specific group was really special,” she tells me on the phone in late April about winning the ’ship with the Mist BC squad. “I’ve won a lot, fortunately, and in those small moments, sometimes you overlook them. They helped me kind of remember back to my first time, and I wanted to help them create that memory. Because once you do it, you want to keep doing it.”

Humbly saying she’s won “a lot” is a bit of an understatement—it’s essentially the bulk of what she knows. When it comes to winning, she is—quite literally—true to this, not new to it.

In college, when she played at the mecca of women’s college basketball, University of Connecticut, her team won the NCAA National Championship four years in a row—so, yes, the entirety of her college career. When she graduated in 2016, she was the No. 1 draft pick for the WNBA and joined the Seattle Storm. In 2018 and 2020, the team won the WNBA Championship, officially adding rings to Stewie’s second hand.

Most recently, the Syracuse native has been a starting forward for the New York Liberty since 2023; she’s a part of the team’s “big three” alongside Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones. In 2024, Stewie helped lead the team to its first-ever WNBA Championship. And just a few weeks ago, she won another championship, this time with an overseas team in Turkey. The WNBA season tips off on May 8, and Stewie has already played so much basketball these last few months, but she’s not feeling the least bit burnt out.

“Ever since the Liberty season finished [last year], I’ve been waiting for it to start again,” she says. “I’m excited. We have a new staff, some new players, everything is new, and I just want to be back in front of the fans again.”

She’s been finding wins off the court, too, but not just for herself. Earlier this spring, the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA, often just called the “PA”) reached a historic collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the WNBA that massively increased players’ salaries, among many other significant improvements. It’s already been life-changing for the athletes, who’ve for the first-time in their careers, seen million dollar contracts. It is an overdue and welcome change for the league and feels especially poignant as The W enters its 30th season. As the vice president of the PA, Stewie was at the forefront in advocating for these changes.

“Players won’t have to feel like they have to be playing basketball nonstop,” she says about the CBA. “They can play during The W season and then decide if they want to keep playing in the wintertime, if they want to go overseas, or play Unrivaled. And it’s not because you need money now. It’s because literally you want to and if you want to focus on your game and work on that. We’re now getting into a territory where players are going to start to be able to have the means to not only survive in the offseason but really thrive.”

Fresh out of practice, Stewie hopped on the phone with me to chat about her upcoming 10th season, the evolution of The W, how the city influences her personal style, all the NYC restaurants she’s itching to try with her wife, and the NYC playgrounds she wants to take their kids.

You haven’t even been back in the States a full week yet and already so much has happened—training camp, preseason game, just getting out of practice now. What do you do to take care of yourself mentally and emotionally while being so on the go?

I like to go shopping. I’ve been just going home and being with Marta and the kids, hanging out, watching the NBA Playoffs. We had an off day on Sunday, because we had a preseason game Saturday, and we went to brunch and a farmer’s market. So trying to do the New York things a little bit. Me and Marta, this year our plan is to go to as many new restaurants as possible in New York. We’re on a mission to really go around and find the best food. Michelin star or not, I want the best ones. We have a list. We just went to Danny’s in Tribeca.

Oh my gosh, do y’all use the Beli app?

No, do I need it?

Definitely! It’s basically social media but for tracking, rating, and wish-listing all the restaurants you try or want to try. It’s fun!

Okay, wait, I’m getting that really quick then I’m focused.

I think you’ll like it! Do you like being on the go or would you rather stay put?

I do, but I was looking forward to being back home in New York and having my family and me really get into a schedule. It’s more my comfort knowing, like, I go to Barclays, this is where I practice, and this is where I drop my kids off at school. And getting to sleep in my own bed, that’s the biggest thing.

There is nothing like sleeping in your own bed. I know you’re used to winning back-to-back championships, but what was it like to win with two different teams in a very short period of time?

To win Unrivaled and to be a cofounder and having won in my second season with the team was really exciting. I enjoyed playing for [my coach] Zach, and I enjoyed my teammates a lot, and we had a lot of fun in our short stint in Miami.

For the team in Turkey, I literally said to them, “I’m just here to help. So whatever you need me to do, I’ll do it,” while acknowledging this is not my team—I’m not going to come in here and try to run the show. I was just doing whatever they needed and respecting all that those players had done to get to that point. I’m happy we were able to walk away with another Euro League Championship.

When I think about you and your career, the word “winner” always comes to mind because you’ve won at every highest level. Does winning mean anything different to you now than it did when you were younger?

I think now winning means legacy. It’s something that I just want to keep doing. I’m 31, but I have some tread on my tires a little bit, and I want to show people how to do it. I want them to feel that moment. When we won [the WNBA Championship] with the Liberty, that was insane. All of it—the fans, the parade, everything. And I want my teammates to feel that again, because the city was behind us, and they still are 1,000 percent. That parade, feeling those goosebumps, that feeling when you’re bumping to “Empire State of Mind,” I want everybody to feel that.

This will be your 10th season in The W. What feels most significant about that to you?

Just realizing where I started to where I am now—of being a rookie, having my first season in Seattle, going through some adversity, rupturing my Achilles, winning [the WNBA Championship with the Storm], moving to New York. I’ve been through a lot, and I really just bring that perspective with me as I go forward. And now I’m appreciating it. I was in the league when we had roommates, and now you have people on million dollar contracts. We’re just scratching the surface of where we’re going to be, and that’s really exciting.

Did you ever feel like your identity was connected to winning?

I feel like my identity was tied to winning. I won a lot when I was in college. If I could go back, I would tell my rookie self, “Be prepared because you’re going to lose games.” My rookie season, we were like 17-18 or something like that—like, under 500. I only lost, like, five games in college. So that was a bit of a shock to my system. I know what type of player I am; it was just more frustrating because I knew what I could do and I knew the impact that I had.

Have you ever struggled with imposter syndrome?

No, I don’t think so. Sometimes mentally, you’re up and down, especially with an injury or having to play through something or just having patience. But I’m confident in who I am, and I know it, and I have all the things to back it. So even if there’s a moment of something wavering, I’m like, No, look at what you did, at what you’ve done, and remember who you are.

How did you cultivate that confidence?

It’s definitely some self-talk. Like before every game, I think about being dominant and knowing that the other teams can’t guard me but also working through it. I’m in the gym, too. If something’s not working, I want to figure out why and how I can make it work.

Marta played professional basketball, too. What’s it like having a spouse who understands what it’s like to be a professional athlete but specifically in the same sport?

Marta’s someone that’s played in the WNBA, in the Olympics, she gets it, she understands the grind behind it and how practice days can be sometimes. We can talk about how I’m feeling on the court. I want to hear her perspective. She does her best to make sure I’m not feeling overwhelmed if I have a lot going on and just reminding me to focus on the main thing and that’s playing and being there for my team and for my family.

I love that. I’m obsessed with y’all’s PDA. Tell me a little bit about y’all’s dynamic.

Marta is my rock, my backbone. We just enjoy each other’s company. She’s literally what’s keeping our house and our family afloat during the season. When I’m away or in practice all the time, she makes it so I’m able to be where my feet are and focus on that. So I’m either with my team or with my family.

How would she describe you?

Probably as loving but competitive, crazy, and funny. I think I’m funny. She must think I’m funny, too. Sometimes it’s the dry sarcasm, and she’s just rolling her eyes at me. This is our seventh year together, married five. It’s coming up in July. We don’t have any anniversary plans. I’ll probably be playing. We’re going to look at some of the spots on Beli and go to dinner!

Tell me what a rainy day looks like with you two and the kids at home. What are the vibes? Like, what’s happening?

The kids have a toy room, so we’re probably up there. But my kids, who are 4 and 2, right now they’re screaming. My son—I don’t know if he doesn’t hear volume or what—he is just constantly screaming. We’re singing Frozen, specifically “Let It Go,” then probably watching a movie or TV. If it’s not raining, we try to go outside to a park. I also want to go to playgrounds—that’s my next thing on my list. I want to go to restaurants and playgrounds. There’s this whale playground that I keep talking to Marta about on the west side on the water. I want to go there with the kids so badly because it looks so cool.

How would you say motherhood has shaped you as a competitor, if at all?

It means even more, because I’m a role model to a lot of kids, but now my kids in the house are looking up to me and following everything that I do. So it’s about making sure that they see the best of me at all times. And you know, even when I have bad days, that I’m still gonna be good. They copy everything I do.

My kids, they’re so innocent and so unaware of everything that’s happening. I could lose a game and I’ll come home and they’ll be like, “Mommy, you want to play like unicorn Candy Land” or something like that. And it just really puts it into perspective that the world is going to keep spinning. Sometimes we have bad days at the office, but my kids always show up for me, and I’m going to always show up for them.

The way people talk about moms and dads in professional sports is very different. How do you feel about that?

Being a parent and raising children is definitely hard enough. No matter who does it, but there’s something to mom strength. There is something behind that. When my kids were younger, you literally had sleepless nights, and you wake up and you go to practice or you go play a game. And somehow, you just keep going. They give me added strength. I don’t know how or where it comes from, but you just keep going.

This is The W’s 30th year, which is really exciting. What has been most exciting for you to see around the change in the growth in the league these last few years?

The historic CBA that we were able to accomplish and being able to get everything we wanted and more. We are now a part of a revenue share model, we are getting 20 percent of growth, and that’s going to continue to make our number hopefully grow year after year. Some salaries can continue to grow but also still having housing provided for those that need it. The benefits for family planning are going up—401(k)s, back pay to retire players. There’s so much that we accomplished in the CBA, and I’m really excited about it because it’s not only touching the current players but also the former ones who have gotten us here and gotten us to have a successful 30 seasons before this.

Outside of the pay, is there anything else that felt especially overdue?

Pay is the biggest one, but I think the family planning is a big one, too. You used to be eligible for it after your eighth year of service, and now it’s after year two. You get a certain stipend or amount of money if you want to freeze your eggs, do IVF, or whatever the case may be. That stuff is expensive. And as an athlete, you can’t just freeze your eggs whenever you want because that means you have to stop working out. And you’re obviously healthiest when you’re younger, especially with that fertility aspect of it, so now players can make that decision a lot sooner if they want to.

You’re vice president of the players’ association and had a direct hand in advocating for these changes. Why was it important to you to be a part of the leadership?

Like you said, I wanted to be an advocate for the players and really understand what everybody’s wants and needs are and being able to really use my platform to help fight that fight and show up every day, whether it was showing up the meetings or on the calls and really knowing the things that I was pushing for but also the things that everybody else wants and just really being able to be that kind of voice for everybody.

I’m going to switch gears and talk a little bit about fashion. You’re one of my favorite players to see tunnel walk. What has been one of your favorite tunnel looks?

I don’t know exactly which one, but every time I get to wear Issey Miyake, I just love it. It’s comfortable, it’s leisure, it’s casual. You can dress it up or dress it down—that’s what I want.

We need that versatility. Who or what influences your personal style?

New York influences my personal style, just seeing the vibes. I told Marta I want to start dressing up. Yeah, it’s annoying to wake up in the morning and put on jeans and stuff like that. But, like, I’m in New York and I want to be like a New Yorker. I’m going to dress it up for opening night because you have to make sure that that is always a top outfit. And then I have to think about it a little bit for the rest of the season. I got some boots in there. A lot of Puma. I’m excited.

Okay, we have just over six minutes left, so let’s do our famous Cosmo Sports rapid-fire questions: Your bodega order.

I’m a chop chop in the deli.

The one thing that makes you feel powerful.

My watch.

Okay, I love that. Most famous person in your contact list.

A Boogie.

That’s a really good one. What’s your current fixation?

Oh, I keep telling Marta I want to donate all my clothes. Someone said that you’re only supposed to have 95 pieces of clothing, and I have, like, way more than 95, so I keep trying to tell myself that I only want just 95. I want to live the simple. But it’s not working.

What’s one product you can’t live without right now?

My electric toothbrush. I love it.

That is so 30-plus-coded, I love it. Okay, when do you feel your most attractive and most confident?

I feel most confident when I’m dressed up and when I put a good ’fit on.

At this very moment, what do you see as the headline of your life.

At this very moment, I see the headline of my life is just trying to be great everywhere. And great vibes.

This interview has been lightly edited for space and clarity.

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Swin Cash helped keep the WNBA afloat in 2022.

The Hall of Famer was one of the investors in the WNBA’s $75 million capital raise for a 16% equity stake in the league. Other investors include former NBA star Baron Davis, and NBA and WNBA owners Joe and Clara Tsai (Nets & Liberty), Herb Simon (Pacers & Fever), and Ted Leonsis (Wizards and Mystics). 

At the time of the raise, it was widely reported that the investment valued the league at $1 billion. But FOS reported earlier this year that valuation of the league was closer to $475 million after the capital injection.

The league is far more valuable than that just four years later. 

The WNBA’s popularity has skyrocketed since 2024 after the arrival of the rookie class led by Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Team valuations have skyrocketed, and the three latest expansion teams—all coming by 2030—each paid $250 million to join the league. The league’s existing teams are approaching $1 billion valuations, with CNBC estimating that the Golden State Valkyries are already there.

FOS previously reported that the WNBA is interested in buying back the 16% stake, which would cost far more than the $75 million the investors paid for it in 2022.

“It’s one of the best investments I’ve ever made,” Cash tells Front Office Sports. Other investors include Heat owners Micky and Nick Arison, Spurs minority owners Michael and Susan Dell, NBA legend Pau Gasol, and former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

The deal further complicated the WNBA’s already-muddled ownership picture.

Before the capital raise, half of the league was owned by the 30 NBA owners, while the other half was owned by the WNBA’s owners. The two side’s portions were cut to 42% following the raise—but Leonsis, Simon, and the Tsais have a hand in all three stakes.

Cash, who will be an analyst on Amazon Prime Video’s WNBA studio coverage this season, defended the league’s decision, saying it was difficult to predict such explosive growth.

“I don’t think anybody had a globe or a ball to say whether it’s right or wrong,” Cash said. “I think that you can look at it and say the investment has helped tremendously in different ways and the WNBA is hitting right now when it’s supposed to. The league is growing. …  So I don’t think that anything is necessarily bad.”

The WNBA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Detroit Expansion Team

One of the league’s expansion teams will be in Detroit, where Cash played for six of her 15 years in the WNBA. Cash was drafted No. 2 overall by the Detroit Shock in 2002, and helped lead them to two of their three championships.

The Detroit WNBA franchise will return in 2029. The team is owned by Pistons owners Tom and Holly Gores and will play home games at Little Caesars Arena in downtown Detroit. 

But it’s not clear whether the expansion franchise will be able to revive its historic name. 

A trademark for Detroit Shock has been registered to the Women’s Pro League since Feb. 5, 2025. A week earlier, the WNBA filed its own application for the trademark. The trademark application remains pending.

Cash said she’d love for the team to return as the Shock, but knows the team’s history will live on no matter what.

“I don’t care who owns the name of the Shock,” Cash said. “The blood, sweat and tears by the women who played in those jerseys, and it hung those banners—that needs to be there. So whether you own it or don’t, you don’t own what we were able to accomplish. 

“So do I want the name to come back? I would love to see it. If the name changes, does it change the history of the game? No.”

The post Swin Cash Defends WNBA’s 2022 Stake Sale: ‘The League Is Growing’ appeared first on Front Office Sports.

The countdown to the 2026 World Cup is on! Each day ahead of the tournament’s return to North America, Yahoo Sports will highlight an insight or moment that showcases just how grand the world’s biggest sporting spectacle has become — even beyond the expanded field of this year’s global event.

Carlos Queiroz barely had time to clear out his desk in Oman before his phone rang again.

Three weeks after being dismissed as head coach of Oman, the 73-year-old was hired by Ghana in April after the Black Stars' previous coach, Otto Addo, was fired in March following a fourth-straight loss.

It’s another chance at history. When Queiroz coaches Ghana this summer, he will have coached at five World Cups, tying Bora Milutinović for second all time behind Carlos Alberto Parreira’s record six. The Black Stars will be Queiroz’s third side to take part in the quadrennial tournament, while Parreira managed five different nations. All five of Milutinović’s appearances were with different countries.

Ghana, already qualified, was drawn into Group L with England, Croatia and Panama.

Queiroz first’s World Cup nearly came in 2002 with South Africa. He helped Bafana Bafana qualify, but resigned three months before the competition began. Eight years later, he managed Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal. He then helped Iran qualify for three straight tournaments and was the longest-serving manager in the history of the country's national team.

Ghana will look to change its recent history at World Cups under Queiroz. It has qualified four times and failed to advance out of the group stage in its past two appearances in 2022 and 2014. It also recently did not qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, its first time missing out in 21 years.

Over the last several seasons, the Michigan football program has been synonymous with a strong rushing attack to fuel its offense. It was largely why the Wolverines were able to make the College Football Playoff for three straight seasons, culminating with a national championship in 2023 thanks in part to Blake Corum, Donovan Edwards and elite offensive line play.

Even over the last two years, as Michigan’s offense sputtered week in and week out, the run game was never in question. In fact, it single-handedly dragged the Wolverines to wins in which they wouldn’t even attempt to throw the ball, with Kalel Mullings’ performances against USC and Ohio State in 2024 standing out as the biggest examples. At times, though, the offense’s predictability made it easy for defenses to adjust and limit the run game’s overall impact.

In 2026, Michigan’s offensive philosophy is set to shift under Kyle Whittingham and Jason Beck, with spread formations likely becoming more commonplace.

Urban Meyer’s Ohio State teams thrived on this philosophy in the 2010’s, spreading the field despite not having prolific passers under center or the caliber of wide receiver that we’ve seen in the Ryan Day era. Instead, players like Ezekiel Elliott, Braxton Miller, J.T. Barrett, and J.K. Dobbins were able to make names for themselves in an offense that was explosive on the ground and lit up the scoreboard seemingly every week.

In 2026, Michigan is similarly poised for success with two great running backs and a dual-threat quarterback to lead the charge — not to mention an offensive line that returns six players that started games last season.

Looking at the running back room, Jordan Marshall and Savion Hiter will likely share more than 80 percent of the team’s carries from that position. Marshall, in particular, showed last year that he’s not only physical but also has great straight-line speed that helped him rip off a handful of long runs. With lighter boxes in 2026, he should be able to do that even more, even on carries designed to go straight through the middle of the opposing defense.

Additionally, Marshall chipped in a few times in the passing game last season with nine receptions for 92 yards. Look for that to continue to be a part of his game this season.

As for Hiter, the former five-star recruit has plenty of expectations on his shoulders coming into his freshman year, and there is a big role awaiting him this fall. He plays a similar style as Marshall in terms of speed and physicality, but Hiter might be a better runner when it comes to moving laterally at the line of scrimmage and picking his way through traffic. This should make him more of an asset in short-yardage situations when the formations don’t span the width of the field, but expect to see him used in a multitude of downs and distances this year.

In addition to what the running backs can do, the quarterback run game was a staple of those Ohio State teams we mentioned previously, but it was also a big part of Beck’s offense last season at Utah. This is why it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Bryce Underwood more heavily involved as a runner.

Last season, Underwood showed in a limited sample size he can be effective as a runner with his combination of size, speed and elusiveness, making him hard to bring down in the open field. He finished the year with 88 carries for 392 yards and six touchdowns, which does include the 20 times he was sacked. By making a more intentional effort to utilize this part of Underwood’s game on zone reads, midline options and even draw plays, we could see his overall stock jump while helping the offense as a whole take a step forward.

There will undoubtedly be some hope and urgency for Underwood to take a step forward as a passer this year as well. But by utilizing his dual-threat abilities more often, it should only serve him more as a passer, with defenses needing to use a spy on him more instead of dropping an additional defender in coverage.

In 2026, there’s a clear need for the Wolverines to make sweeping changes when it comes to how they operate during games. And even with a new brain trust pulling the strings for the offense, the ability to run the ball likely won’t be something that’s a question mark. The way they go about it and how it looks on the field might be different from what we’ve seen recently, but it will all be in the hope of making sure they are able to score with some of the best offenses in the country.

Triple-A: Gwinnett Stripers (Braves) 8, Norfolk Tides 6

Norfolk’s offense did some good things in the losing effort. José Barrero hit two home runs, bringing his season total to six. Creed Willems added a two-run shot, which was also his sixth round-tripper of the year. The only other RBI came from Christian Encarnacion-Strand, who went 3-for-4 with a double, a run scored, and the aforementioned RBI. The rest of the Norfolk lineup was rather quiet. The team struck out 12 times and had just two at-bats with runners in scoring position.

But that would have been enough to win if not for a late collapse from the bullpen that saw them allow five runs in game’s final two innings. Six different Tides pitchers took the mound. Cameron Weston started and allowed two runs on two hits, two walks, and four strikeouts over 2.2 innings. Yaqui Rivera followed with one run allowed and four strikeouts over his 2.2 frames. Andrew Magno recorded two outs without allowing a baserunner. Nick Raquet is where the wheels started to fall off. He gave up two runs in his two innings, and then Cameron Foster was handed the loss by giving up three runs and recording just two outs. Hans Crouse came on to retire the final batter of the ninth.

Double-A: Chesapeake Baysox 19, Altoona Curve (Pirates) 4

This was a seriously impressive showing from the Baysox lineup. They scored more runs than they had hits because they were so darn efficient with runners on base. The club went 9-for-13 with runners in scoring position and left just three runners on base all game. Home runs also helped. Five different Baysox hit home runs and all of them came with runners on base. Anderson De Los Santos hit a three-run shot. Carter Young smacked a two-run dong. Frederick Becosme drove in two with his homer. Ethan Anderson had an Earl Weaver special. And Tavian Josenberg had two RBI on his first long ball of the year. It’s a lovely box score to skim through.

The pitchers, overall, did well too. Sebastian Gongora went six innings and allowed just one run while striking out seven. His season ERA is down to 3.62 on the year, and he has now struck out 35 batters over 27.1 innings. The lefty could be one worth watching. Juan Rojas had a tough day, allowing three runs in his lone inning of work, but it was also just his second appearance at Double-A. Eric Torres closed out the win with two scoreless frames.

High-A: Frederick Keys 11, Jersey Shore BlueClaws (Phillies) 5

Here’s another big scoreline from an Orioles affiliate. Frederick collected those 11 runs on 15 hits and three walks, and they went 6-for-15 with runners in scoring position. Ike Irish continued to rake, going 3-for-4 with a double, a home run, a walk, a stolen base, four runs scored, and two RBI. Him and his 1.055 OPS might be ready for another challenge soon. Not to be outdone, Wehiwa Aloy may have been even better on this day. The shortstop was a perfect 4-for-4 with two doubles, a homer, a walk, one run scored, and four RBI. Victor Figueroa added a double and two RBI while Colin Yeaman hit his first career home run.

It was a mixed bag on the mound. JT Quinn, the starter, gave up two runs (one earned) while walking five and striking out two in his three innings of work. Eccel Correa earned the win with 2.1 scoreless innings in which he struck out four batters. Keagan Gillies recorded four outs without allowing a run, three of those came via strikeout. Chandler Marsh allowed two runs over 1.1 innings. And then Braeden Sloan coughed up a run in the ninth.

Low-A: Delmarva Shorebirds 6, Salem Ridge Yaks (Red Sox) 4

Caden Hunter turned in one of the better pitching performances of the day. He tossed four scoreless innings, giving up just two hits and a walk while striking out six. J.D. Hennen was charged with just one earned run, but the Ridge Yaks scored all four runs of the game against him. That is a reflection of the messy game that the Shorebirds played. They made four errors and uncorked three wild pitches. After that, though, it was smooth sailing. Kenny Leiner, Bradley Brehmer, and Riley Cooper combined to throw 3.2 scoreless innings and close out the win.

Raylin Ramos led the offensive effort for Delmarva. He went 2-for-4 as the DH, stealing a base and driving in a run in the process. Braylon Whitaker and Félix Amparo also had two hits each. Amparo added a steal, an RBI, and two runs scored. Jose Perez’s double was the team’s only extra-base hit of the day.

Box Scores

Thursday’s Schedule

Norfolk: vs Gwinnett, 12:05 pm. Starter: Levi Wells (2-2, 4.28 ERA)

Chesapeake: vs Altoona, 6:35 pm. Starter: Juaron Watts-Brown (0-1, 13.50 ERA)

Frederick: vs vs Jersey Shore, 7:00 pm. Starter: Boston Bateman (0-2, 6.35 ERA)

Delmarva: at Salem, 6:35 pm. Starter: Esteban Mejia (0-2, 7.36 ERA)

The slow decline in the prominence of the starting pitcher in baseball has been in full swing for decades. In the place of hurlers that would routinely throw every pitch of a game when called upon has come an increasingly large carousel of single-inning (or less) relievers.

The prevailing strategy throughout the league can be summed up like this: fewer pitches per pitcher, but more effort per pitch. Whatever you or I think about the aesthetics of this change, it has seen widespread adoption from MLB teams with the understanding that it gives them the best chance to win each game.

As behind the times as the Rockies have been in recent years, even they had adapted to this particular facet of modern baseball before the offseason front office overhaul brought in a new perspective on the sport. Some of what the Paul DePodesta-led front office was trying to change about the moribund franchises’ approach to pitching was signposted clearly (larger pitch arsenals, pitch suggestions from the dugout, and simply throwing the ball in the strike zone more often).

However, perhaps the most profound shift wasn’t noticeable until the season started.

At the start of play on Thursday, the Rockies have had 20 relief appearances that lasted more than two innings. Only the Washington Nationals with 18 such appearances come close to matching this total. The Rockies are on pace to feature a reliever going more than two innings in 120 games this year, which would break the previous record of 116 set by the fledgling 1977 Seattle Mariners (one of only four teams with over 100 such relief appearances).

Unsurprisingly, the Nationals (173.1) and Rockies (170.0) also lead the league in total relief innings pitched this season. At first glance, this would seem to indicate that both teams have similarly used bullpens, but there is something that separates the two: While the Nationals are middle-of-the pack in terms of total number of relief appearances, the Rockies are tied for the fewest in the league.

The Rockies are leaning on their bullpen as a group just as much as anyone, but the shape of that usage is different. They have specifically stacked their bullpen with long-relief arms that are pitching more innings per appearance, but making fewer appearances.

One could assume that this was purely a byproduct of Chase Dollander essentially being used as a starting pitcher without getting that designation officially because he was paired with an opener. The Rockies, however, have so far had five different pitchers throw more than two innings in a game that they entered as a reliever:

• Chase Dollander (six times)
• Antonio Senzatela (four times)
• Tanner Gordon (four times)
• Zach Agnos (four times)
• Valente Bellozo (two times)

That’s just the Rockies major league team. The same strategy is also being employed in Albuquerque.

Isotopes Keegan Thompson, Carson Palmquist (No. 19 PuRP), Gabriel Hughes (No. 12 PuRP), Parker Mushinski, Patrick Weigel, and Collin Baumgartner have had two-plus-inning relief appearances more than once so far this season. This means that if/when the major league pitching staff becomes depleted, either from injuries or trades, there is a surplus of longrelief capable arms ready to be called up.

It has become clear, based on comments made by DePodesta in recent weeks, that this was the intended plan coming into the season and not just a natural byproduct of the specific makeup of players in the organization he inherited. This may, in fact, be part of the workload management new bullpen coach Matt Buschman was starting to implement in spring training.

The thinking is pretty obvious: For a team that plays at elevation that lacks a rotation of aces able to go seven every night, the bullpen being composed of one-inning flamethrowers that empty the tank on every pitch leads to extreme second-half swoons. We’ve seen this exact story play out seemingly every year recently where the bullpen will come out the gates looking incredible in April, lead the league in usage, and then fall off a cliff by mid-summer. For evidence one need look no further than Jake Bird’s 2023, Victor Vodnik’s 2024, or Seth Halvorsen’s 2025.

By leaning into arms that pitch less frequently but longer when they do, the hope seems to be that the wear and tear of the same number of innings will be reduced. This could be through either more rest days or simply the idea that pitchers will naturally pace themselves and throw with less max effort if they know they are expected to be out there for longer outings.

Will this work? We won’t know until the grind of the season has had a chance to settle in on this new look bullpen. It is, however, just nice to see the organization genuinely trying new things instead of being content to fail in the same way every year.

On the Farm

Triple-A:Albuquerque Isotopes 12, Sugar Land Space Cowboys 2

The Isotopes keep raking. All of Cole Carrigg (No. 4 PuRP), Blaine Crim, Charlie Condon (No. 1 PuRP), Chad Stevens, and Drew Avans had multiple hits including home runs from Stevens and Avans. Zac Veen (No. 9 PuRP) only had a single hit… but that was because he worked a walk in all four of his other plate appearances. On the mound no one truly stood out, the closest being Welinton Herrera (No. 17 PuRP) who struck out three in two scoreless relief innings, but as a group Erasmo Ramírez, Mason Green, Herrera, and Blas Castaño combined to only allow two runs on six hits.

Double-A:Hartford Yard Goats 3, Binghamton Rumble Ponies 4

This was the Dyan Jorge game as he reached base four times and stole two bases on three attempts. Otherwise the offense was relatively quiet other than a double and a stolen base from Roc Riggio (No. 14 PuRP). Blake Adams was the bulk reliever, coming in after the opener Sam Weatherly, and didn’t allow an earned run over 5.1 innings. Ultimately it came down to a sacrifice fly bringing home a zombie runner in the bottom of the tenth inning that sealed the deal for the Rumble Ponies.

High-A:Spokane Indians 3, Tri-City Dust Devils 2

A tight affair that ended with a walk off RBI single from Roynier Hernandez in the ninth. To start, Jordy Vargas (No. 21 PuRP) took the ball and set the town with 5.2 innings of one run ball before handing it over to Bryan Perez and Fisher Jameson to finish out the remaining 4.1 innings. Almost everyone in the lineup reached base at least once but it was Jacob Humphrey (two for three with a stolen base) and the aforementioned Roynier Hernandez (three for four with a walk) that were the difference makers.

Low-A:Fresno Grizzlies 2, San Jose Giants 12

The Grizzlies had an all around poor showing in this one. On the mound Austin Newton allowed six earned runs on nine hits over 4.2 innings and it only got worse after that when Manuel Olivares walked four and allowed three hits over 1.1 innings and Austin Emener “closed out” the game with another three runs over two innings. In terms of the lineup, while Carlos Renzullo had a nice day at the plate with two hits and a walk, the only runs were accounted for by a two run shot from Ethan Holliday (No. 2 PuRP) to go along with his three strike outs.

The Quiet, Unmistakable Ambition of Kyle Karros | Blake Street Banter

This is an in-depth piece by Eli Whitney that features a wide ranging interview with Karros. It covers everything from the differences between him and his dad, his love of third base, and his dreams of bringing October baseball to Denver. It’s a fantastic interview that I cannot recommend enough.

These young starting pitchers are emerging as MLB aces | The Athletic (Gift Link)

Chase Dollander’s hot start to the season is starting to be noticed by media outside of the Rockies direct orbit. Jim Bowden places him amongst young stars like Cam Schlittler and Jacob Misiorowski as one of the burgeoning aces throughout the league. The particular insights aren’t new to folks who frequent Purple Row, but it is nice to see this start to percolate to the general baseball public.

Mejia embraces new pitching philosophy, K’s 5 of 6 in relief | MLB.com

Thomas Harding talks to Juan Mejia about the adjustments he’s making that are leading to his success early in the season. It’s interesting to see the coaching staff be able to help him through the growing pains of competing at the major league level, especially considering Mejia is one of the few true max-effort short relief options in the Rockies current bullpen.

Please keep in mind our Purple Row Community Guidelines when you’re commenting. Thanks!

RCB vs LSG head-to-head IPL: Last 5 matches, records at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru and Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Stadium in IPL 2026 on May 7.
• The rivalry has interestingly seen the sides chase and defend high and low scores, respectively.
• RCB lead the overall head-to-head record 5-2, while LSG won twice at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium until before this season.

IPL 2026 HUB:Latest IPL news | IPL points table | Team stats | IPL 2026 squads

RCB vs LSG head-to-head: Key stats and venue records in IPL

With their playoff hopes fading, Lucknow Super Giants take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Ekana Stadium on Thursday, May 7.

The intense rivalry between the sides rapidly developed in recent times. With the arrival of LSG in 2022, the match-up has been marked by tension, exciting last-ball finishes, verbal sparring, and high-scores.

To date, the head-to-head series score is 5-2 in favour of RCB, including winning each of the two games held in Lucknow.

A few noteworthy batting performances in the rivalry include run chases of 213 and 228 runs by RCB and LSG, respectively.

MORE:Explained: Why RCB's M Chinnaswamy stadium could miss hosting IPL 2026 final

RCB vs LSG: Last 5 match head-to-head results

1. RCB vs LSG (April 15, 2026)

LSG: 146/10 (19.6 overs)

RCB: 149/5 (15.1 overs)

Result: RCB won by 5 wickets.

2. LSG vs RCB (May 27, 2025)

LSG: 227/3 (20 overs)

RCB: 230/4 (18.4 overs)

Result: RCB won by 6 wickets.

3. RCB vs LSG (April 2, 2024)

LSG: 181/5 (20 overs)

RCB: 153/10 (19.4 overs)

Result: LSG won by 28 runs.

4.LSG vs RCB (May 1, 2023)

RCB: 126/9 (20 overs)

LSG: 108/10 (19.5 overs)

Result: RCB won by 18 runs.

5.RCB vs LSG (April 10, 2023)

RCB: 212/2 (20 overs)

LSG: 219/9 (20 overs)

Result: LSG won by 1 wicket.

MORE:'Want to play World Cup with Virat & Rohit': LSG's Prince Yadav

RCB vs LSG: Head-to-head record in IPL

There have been a total of seven encounters between RCB and LSG in the IPL’s history. RCB has an upper hand, winning five games against LSG, who have won twice.

In the only play-off meeting between the two sides, RCB defeated LSG by 14 runs in an Eliminator tie during IPL 2022.

RCB vs LSG: Head-to-head record at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium

Both of LSG's wins against RCB have come at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. In a flashpoint at this venue, during IPL 2023, Virat Kohli reacted aggressively after LSG won the game on the last ball, and Avesh Khan threw his helmet to celebrate the victory.

MORE:Which IPL team has the most consecutive losses at home?

RCB vs LSG: Head-to-head record at Ekana Stadium

RCB have dominated the rivalry at Ekana Stadium, winning both of their meetings at this venue, notably stifling LSG for just 108 while defending a score of 126/9.

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.

Did Yuzvendra Chahal vape on a flight? Arshdeep Singh posts, then allegedly crops viral video amid Riyan Parag vaping row originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Yuzvendra Chahal allegedly filmed vaping on a flight with PBKS teammates.
• Arshdeep Singh's vlog was reportedly edited, with Chahal footage allegedly cropped.
• Rajasthan's Riyan Parag was separately fined for vaping in the dressing room.

Did Yuzvendra Chahal vape on a flight? Viral video allegations rock Punjab Kings mid-season

A video posted on Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh's official YouTube channel has landed the franchise in the middle of an uncomfortable controversy.

In the footage, Yuzvendra Chahal, seated beside vice-captain Shashank Singh during what is believed to be a team flight from Ahmedabad to Hyderabad, appears to be concealing and lighting a smoking object.

The clip was part of a travel vlog Arshdeep had uploaded, which seemingly showed the squad in transit during the ongoing IPL 2026 season.

A social media user posted screenshots and short clips from Arshdeep's vlog, alleging that Chahal was vaping aboard the aircraft. The same user later claimed that the original video was subsequently edited and made shorter, with the portions showing Chahal allegedly removed from the final cut. 

The user further alleged possession of the unedited version and doubled down on the accusation that Chahal had brought a vaping device onto the plane.

WATCH: Chahal allegedly vaping inside a flight

Yuzi Vaping on Flight ?? How did he took it inside flight?? CISF doesn't allow Vapes or E-Cigarettes on Flights! #IPL2026#PBKS#YuziChahalpic.twitter.com/251KtppCmn

— Ankan Kar (@AnkanKar) May 7, 2026

This Chanchal chutmarika Chahal vaping in flight on Arshdeep YouTube video.

Arshdeep has now edited the video and cropped Yuzi Chahal from most of it.

You can see here the video duration was 16:56 minutes, but now the video duration is 16:01 minutes.

Also, you can still notice… pic.twitter.com/YB0K51EjL9

— Jo Kar (@i_am_gustakh) May 6, 2026

Neither Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Punjab Kings, nor the IPL has responded to or acknowledged the allegations in any official capacity. The claims are entirely unverified at this stage, and no independent confirmation of the video's contents or context has been possible. 

Riyan Parag was caught in a separate  vaping incident

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag was caught on broadcast cameras appearing to use an electronic vaping device inside the dressing room during his side's IPL fixture against Punjab Kings.

The cameras picked up the moment in the 16th over after Parag had been dismissed and returned to the dugout. The Board of Control for Cricket in India acted swiftly, docking 25% of Parag's match fees and handing him 1 demerit point. 

MORE: WATCH: Riyan Parag caught vaping in dressing room

The Cricket News Opinion: Not a good advertisement for IPL

The Parag incident was confirmed on camera and dealt with through proper channels.  

Now, it remains to be seen if Chahal also faces the brunt from the board. Nonetheless, it is not a good advertisement for the cricket board or the IPL brand. 

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.

What happened in the last 5 IPL matches at Ekana Cricket Stadium? Results, toss trends and Lucknow pitch report originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• LSG began its IPL 2026 campaign with an opener against DC in Bengaluru.
• LSG are struggling in the 2026 campaign.
• Ekana Stadium in Lucknow,  pitch report, and toss trends detailed.

Last 5 T20 match results and scores at Ekana Stadium, Lucknow

The Ekana Stadium in Lucknow has hosted 32 IPL matches in its history. It will host its fifth match in 2026 on May 7 when Lucknow Super Giants will take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

1. LSG vs RCB (May 27, 2025)

LSG: 227/3

RCB: 230/4

Result: RCB won by 6 wickets (with 8 balls remaining)

2. LSG vs DC (Apr 1, 2026)

LSG: 141/10

DC: 145/4

Result: DC won by 6 wickets (with 17 balls remaining)

3. LSG vs GT (Apr 12, 2026)

LSG: 164/8

GT: 165/3

Result: GT won by 7 wickets (with 8 balls remaining)

4. LSG vs RR (Apr 22, 2026)

RR: 159/6

LSG: 141/10

Result: RR won by 40 wickets

5. LSG vs KKR (Apr 26, 2026)

LSG: 155/7

KKR: 155/7

Result: KKR won in super over

Toss trends: Should teams choose to bat or bowl first?

Due to the nature of the surface at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, the team winning the toss would prefer bowling first, as teams chasing on this ground are more likely to win. 

Pitch report

Lucknow's Ekana Stadium is generally a good surface for the batters. In the last six innings, five of them have had scores of above 200. 

IPL 2026 Schedule - Ekana Stadium, Lucknow

Who do you think will win IPL 2026?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.

The IPL 2026 playoff race is beautifully, brilliantly poised. Sunrisers Hyderabad after the initial poor run has made a very strong comeback. Pat Cummins’ side are sitting  top with 14 points from 11 matches, winning seven and looking every inch like a team that knows exactly what it is doing. 

Punjab Kings are on a string of poor run of form with three losses on the bounce but they had such a strong start they have breathing space. They are second with 13 points. 

Royal Challengers Bengaluru, meanwhile, carry the most devastating run rate in the tournament at +1.420. They have played nine matches and have won six.

Rajasthan Royals sit level on 12 points alongside Gujarat Titans, both sides scrapping furiously for that fourth playoff berth, separated only by the finest of margins in run rate.

Chennai Super Kings, the old warhorses, are not done yet. Five wins from ten matches keeps them firmly in the hunt.

Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders find themselves in uncomfortable territory — eight and seven points respectively — needing wins and favours from elsewhere to keep their seasons breathing.

Mumbai Indians have been a profound disappointment. Three wins from ten matches and need plenty of things to go their way to have any chance.And Lucknow Super Giants, rooted to the bottom with just four points, face the very real prospect of being the first side to be eliminated if they don’t get the job done against RCB tonight! 

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Who won IPL 2025?

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the IPL 2025 title, claiming their first-ever IPL trophy after 18 seasons. In a thrilling final at Ahmedabad, RCB defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 6 runs. RCB posted 190/9 in 20 overs, with captain Rajat Patidar leading the charge and Virat Kohli contributing a steady 43.

Punjab Kings, despite a valiant 61 off 30 balls from Shashank Singh, finished at 184/7 in their 20 overs. Key bowling performances for RCB included Krunal Pandya (2/17) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2/38), who took crucial wickets at the death overs.

When is the IPL 2026 season?

IPL 2026 kicked off on March 28 with reigning champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru. The league will run till 31 May. 

IPL 2026 winner odds and latest betting

The latest betting odds for IPL 2026, by Dafabet:

* Odds correct at time of publish but subject to change

How to Bet on IPL 2026 Games

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Ireland head coach Scott Bemand has made one changes to his starting XV for Saturday's Women's Six Nations home game against Wales at the Affidea Stadium.

Eve Higgins replaces Nancy McGillivray, who is not involved in the matchday squad, at centre in the sole alterations from the 26-7 defeat against France in Clermont two weeks ago.

Higgins started the opening 33-12 defeat against England before she came off the bench in the big 57-20 win over Italy and 26-7 loss against France.

Following the tournament's fallow week, Ireland will look to get back on track and pick up their second home victory in the campaign.

Wales are looking to pick up their first win of the campaign after defeats by Scotland, France and England.

Stacey Flood continues at full-back with Beibhinn Parsons at right wing and Robyn O'Connor on the opposite side.

Aoife Dalton is partnered by Higgins in midfield with Dannah O'Brien and Emily Lane - who has three try assists in this year's tournament - remaining in the half-backs.

Ellena Perry, Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald, who scored Ireland's only try against France, and Linda Djougang form an unchanged front row, with Dorothy Wall partnering Fiona Tuite, who has played every minute of the tournament, in the second row.

Aoife Wafer, captain Erin King and Brittany Hogan are in the back row for the fourth game in a row, while Bemand has made a number of changes to the bench in opting for a 6:2 split.

Sadh McGrath and Grace Moore are back among the replacements, while 20-year-old full-back Niamh Gallagher is set to make her debut off the bench.

Ireland line-up

Ireland: Flood; Parsons, Dalton, Higgins, O'Connor; O'Brien, Lane; Perry, Moloney-MacDonald, Djougang, Wall, Tuite, Hogan, King (capt), Wafer.

Replacements: Jones, McGrath, Cahill, Campbell, Monaghan, Moore, Whelan, Gallagher.

• Dalton feared for Ireland future after first Six Nations
• Ireland must be 'more clinical' in final two games
• Wales centre duo give Wales fitness boost against Ireland

FSU second baseman Marin Heller has not played since she collided with a Georgia Tech base runner on April 24, forcing her to undergo surgery and miss the final six games of the regular season. Head coach Lonni Alameda spoke with the media on Wednesday, and while she has not been cleared to play, she gave a positive update on her status moving forward.

"She will be going to ACC's with us, she'll be travelling from now on out with us," Alameda said. "I do think that there is hope for her to be on the field. So we're just kind of day-by-day with her. But she's doing everything possible to make sure she gives herself a chance to be out there."

The freshman suffered the injury on the final play of the game when she went to field a grounder, putting her in the basepath between first and second, with the runner on first colliding with her. She was down on the ground for several minutes before she walked off.

Heller started the first 48 games for FSU and was named to the All-ACC Second Team and All-Freshman teams after hitting .353 with a .451 on-base percentage. The freshman has 15 doubles, four triples, two home runs, and 25 RBI. She has drawn 23 walks and struckout 16 times. She has also stolen 13 bases on 15 attempts and made just four errors in 173 chances, giving her a .977 fielding percentage.

The Seminoles will start their ACC Softball Tournament run on Thursday against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. FSU swept them in their regular-season series.

Contact/Follow us @FSUWire on X, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of FSU news, notes, and opinions.

This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: FSU Softball: Marin Heller injury update

On Wednesday morning, the PWHL officially announced it is heading to Detroit for the 2026-27 season. It won’t be the only big expansion announcement in the coming weeks.

In an email obtained by The Athletic, PWHLPA executive director Malaika Underwood told players “the league intends to move forward with a four-team expansion.” When asked about the email, Amy Scheer, the PWHL’s executive vice president of business operations, said the league could add two, three or four teams.

Selecting expansion markets has been a fluid process for league executives, who have spent months working through the available options. “The answers will come when we feel comfortable making a final decision,” Scheer told The Athletic last month.

There’s been no shortage of online discussion over where the league might eventually land. And over the last few weeks, there’s been increased chatter among league circles that San Jose has emerged as a prime option.

Expansion to San Jose might feel out of left field — especially as fans in established NHL cities such as Washington, D.C., and Pittsburgh have long clamored for a team — but that doesn’t mean it’s not an intriguing fit.

The Bay Area has become a premier hub for women’s sports with the additions of NWSL and WNBA franchises in recent years. Bay FC broke the NWSL attendance record last season with over 40,000 fans at Oracle Park (a record since broken by the league’s newest team, Denver Summit FC).

In the WNBA, the Golden State Valkyries topped the league average attendance table last season with over 18,000 fans per game and became the first franchise valued at $1 billion, according to CNBC, just one season into their existence.

The Bay Area also topped The Athletic’s list of women’s sports cities back in November.

As The Athletic’s Marcus Thompson II wrote: “The Bay doesn’t just support women’s sports, it centers them. It elevates them. It multiplies them. It invests in them by buying tickets and merch. Tens of thousands of people will drop everything to watch women hoop, swim, skate, run, pass, score. Shine.”

After adding expansion teams in Vancouver and Seattle last season, there is likely a need for the PWHL to continue adding teams on the West Coast. Especially if the PWHL splits two conferences; Scheer told the Associated Press the league is exploring the idea.

A team in San Jose would make the league more geographically balanced — with at least three teams out west, two in the Midwest and five out east — and could cut back on Seattle and Vancouver’s travel, which was an issue to some degree this season. Both expansion teams struggled in their inaugural seasons and finished bottom-two in the league standings. Vancouver head coach Brian Idalski was vocal about the challenges of travel.

“We’re both struggling,” he said after a two-week road trip that ended last month. “There’s something there. There’s something with the travel and us going back and forth that’s happening to our bodies.”

Hockey in general is on the upswing in San Jose, too, with 19-year-old superstar Macklin Celebrini driving one of the highest year-over-year attendance growth rates in the NHL this season. The San Jose Sharks averaged just over 16,000 fans at the SAP Center this season, up from around 14,000 in 2024-25.

The SAP Center is the most likely primary venue for a PWHL team in San Jose, and should be more available compared to other options in California. It’s also undergoing a $425 million renovation to modernize the rink. Crypto.com Arena is home to three professional teams (in the NHL, NBA and WNBA) and hosts tons of concerts and events. The Intuit Dome, home of the Los Angeles Clippers, is exclusively used for basketball and concerts.

There have been Canada-USA Rivalry Series games at Tech CU Arena — where the Sharks’ minor league affiliate plays — in San Jose in the past. But women’s hockey has outgrown that arena’s 4,200-seat capacity.

If the league indeed expands to San Jose — or another appealing West Coast market — that leaves room for two more teams. Given the consistently strong attendance numbers in the league’s current Canadian markets — Toronto, Ottawa, Vancouver and Montreal — at least one new franchise should be North of the border.

Calgary — with a brand new building opening in 2027-28 — would be an obvious landing spot for the PWHL. But if the league is bullish on getting to 12 teams in its second round of expansion — and limiting the amount of consecutive seasons it shakes up rosters — Calgary will have just missed out.

There are other strong options, however, in Hamilton, Quebec City and Halifax.

Last month, The Athletic reported that Hamilton’s stock was on the rise; that doesn’t appear to have changed. A team in Hamilton would work well within the league’s current footprint with manageable bus trips to Detroit, Ottawa and nearby Toronto. Montreal (393 miles away from Hamilton, or a six-hour drive on a good traffic day) is right on the line of the CBA’s six-hour or 400-mile threshold for air travel.

Hamilton could draw some amount of fans from the Greater Toronto Area, but also further south into Ontario and as far as Buffalo. The Toronto Sceptres have been such a success that the team’s core fan base shouldn’t be overly impacted.

Adding a team in Hamilton would also give the league a sixth — and perhaps final, for now — eastern conference team. If that’s the PWHL’s calculus, then perhaps there’s another West Coast option.

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

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From the moment the WNBA collective bargaining agreement was signed in March, A’ja Wilson began signaling her commitment to remain with the Las Vegas Aces.

A three-time champion and four-time MVP in her eight seasons with Las Vegas, Wilson is the lynchpin of every bit of success the Aces have achieved in the 2020s. They have a deep core of talent surrounding Wilson, but the formula works because of the generational superstar at the center of it all.

The hardest part of building a championship team is getting the player who can be a finals MVP. While other teams scrambled to acquire the core of a title team, the Aces could laser in on retaining Wilson and figure out how to pay her without losing their other stars.

Wilson clearly stating her intentions to return was the first domino to fall that compelled the rest of the starting lineup (Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray, NaLyssa Smith and Kierstan Bell) and key reserves Jewell Loyd and Dana Evans to re-sign with the Aces.

“We focused on player retention,” Aces president Nikki Fargas said this week. “When you have a roster that is as talented and seasoned as ours going into this offseason, that was huge for us.”

But with a new CBA and higher salaries on the line, there are more complications, and there’s more at stake in this new era when it comes to creating a champion team.

With players secured, Las Vegas could pivot toward managing the roster under the constraints of a new salary cap. Not only did the cap increase nearly five-fold from $1.5 million in 2025 to $7 million in 2026, but players could now earn a larger share of the cap. The supermaximum salary now accounts for 20 percent of the salary cap, compared to less than 17 percent a year ago. The standard maximum salary is currently 17 percent of the cap.

That distinction was of particular interest to the Aces, one of the few teams to have multiple players who merit a max contract. Wilson, Young and Gray had all been playing on extensions below the max during the 2025 season. They were all due for raises, both in total salary and how much of the cap they could command.

Young ended up signing for a one-year maximum deal worth $1.19 million, less than a potential supermax, while Gray agreed to a three-year deal starting at $1 million with 5 percent raises.

No one took advantage of the opportunity more than Wilson, who signed a three-year supermaximum contract that is worth 20 percent of the cap during each year of the deal, per sources with knowledge of the contract. If the cap rises as much as possible through 2028, Wilson’s deal — which starts at $1.4 million in 2026 — could pay her more than $4.7 million total over three seasons. At the time of signing, it was the richest contract in WNBA history.

“We really capitalized on the platform that we have, and there’s nothing better than a room full of women that has one goal, and they want to make sure they obtain it,” Wilson said at media day about the work of the WNBPA in CBA negotiations. “This is just the beginning. I don’t want us to be satisfied in this. At the same time, I’m happy, I’m blessed, and I’m pleased about the work that we’ve put in, but it was due. It’s our time, and so I’m greedy, and I want a little bit more for us. And I don’t really care who has anything to say about that.”