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National Sports.

Drivers race in a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at the Grant Park 165 , Sunday, July 6, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)

NASCAR says no Chicago Street Race next year, but it could return in 2027

July 18, 2025

NASCAR is pressing pause on its Chicago Street Race, answering at least one major question about its schedule for next season. NASCAR raced on a street course in downtown Chicago on the first weekend in July each of the last three years. But it had a three-year contract with the city, leaving the future of the event in question. Writing to Mayor Brandon Johnson, race president Julie Giese says the plan is to explore the potential of a new event weekend with his office and other community leaders. NASCAR is replacing its Chicago stop with a street race in San Diego.

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Lawyer says lawsuit is over between ex-NFL star Shannon Sharpe and woman who accused him of rape

July 18, 2025

A lawyer says NFL Hall of Fame member Shannon Sharpe has resolved a lawsuit that accused him of sexually assaulting a woman during their relationship. No details were released. Attorney Tony Buzbee represents the woman. He says Sharpe and the woman had a consensual but “tumultuous relationship” that began in 2023. Sharpe has denied allegations of rape, calling them “false and disruptive.” There was no immediate comment Friday from Sharpe’s lawyer.

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FILE - Construction continues on a new enclosed stadium for NFL football's Tennessee Titans, March 3, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey, File)

Construction halted at new Tennessee Titans Stadium after noose found at site

July 18, 2025

Construction on a new enclosed stadium for the Tennessee Titans in Nashville, Tennessee, has been halted after a noose was found at the construction site. Metro Nashville Police spokesperson Kristin Mumford says in a Friday email that they are aware and investigating. The Tennessee Builders Alliance, a joint venture partnership on the stadium, says it suspended construction at the site after the “racist and hateful” symbol was discovered this week. A statement to news outlets says, “We are requiring additional antibias training for every person on site, and work will resume only after a site-wide stand-down focused on inclusion and respect.”

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FILE - Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow catches a ball during NFL football practice on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

NYC pawn shop owner pleads guilty to his role in burglary of NFL star Joe Burrow’s home and others

July 18, 2025

A Manhattan pawn shop owner has pleaded guilty to serving as a fence for luxury items stolen from wealthy people across the country, including a brazen burglary at the home of Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. Dimitriy Nezhinskiy admitted Friday that he purchased watches, jewelry and other high-end goods to sell despite knowing they were stolen. The charge he pleaded guilty to in Brooklyn federal court carries a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison. Prosecutors said Nezhinskiy fenced the stolen goods for international burglary crews, some of which targeted homes of prominent professional athletes.

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Dr. David Altchek poses in his office filled with sports memorabilia in New York, Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

Dr. David Altchek, Mets medical director and Tommy John surgery pioneer, dies at 68

July 18, 2025

Dr. David Altchek, a renowned orthopedic surgeon and longtime New York Mets medical director, has died at 68. Altchek told associates last year he had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. He performed more than 2,400 Tommy John surgeries during his career and was instrumental in developing the “docking procedure,” a breakthrough technique for the surgery. In addition to serving as the Mets’  medical director, he held prominent roles in sports medicine, including with the ATP Tour and U.S. Davis Cup team.

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FILE - Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) celebrates after a shot against the Orlando Magic during the second half of an NBA basketball game, March 5, 2023, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Kevin Kolczynski, File)

Damian Lillard returns to the Trail Blazers on a 3-year deal worth $42 million, AP source says

July 18, 2025

Damian Lillard is back where he started. Lillard signed a three-year deal worth $42 million to return to the Portland Trail Blazers, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press on Thursday. The person spoke to the AP on the condition of anonymity because the deal had not been officially announced. Lillard was the sixth pick in the 2012 NBA draft by the Trail Blazers and spent 11 seasons with Portland before he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks just before the 2023-24 season.

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Oakland Ballers' Lou Helmig cannot catch a home run hit by Rocky Mountain Vibes' Gary Lora Gonzalez during the third inning of a Pioneer League baseball game in Oakland, Calif., Thursday, July 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

Ballers outfielder Lou Helmig represents deep baseball history in Germany

July 18, 2025

Lou Helmig carries a deep family history with every swing, and every catch, with every sprint around the basepaths. He has carried it at every level, in every new place he plays, on whatever continent it happens to be in a given moment. The larger-than-life right fielder for the independent Oakland Ballers is a third-generation German professional player trying to leave his mark, just like his grandfather, great-uncle, and Helmig’s own dad, Martin, before him.

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FILE - Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams cannot make a catch in the end zone during the second half of an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Nov. 8, 2020, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis, file)

Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams decides to retire from NFL at age 30

July 17, 2025

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams has retired from the NFL at age 30. His agent informed the team Wednesday, just before training camp began Thursday. Williams signed a one-year deal in March but was placed on the physically unable to perform list Monday due to an undisclosed injury. Williams played eight NFL seasons, including stints with the Jets and Steelers, and had 330 career receptions and 32 touchdowns. Known for his leadership, he was a key player for the Chargers. Meanwhile, the Chargers signed tackle Ryan Nelson from the UFL and are addressing wide receiver Tre’ Harris’ holdout.

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FILE - Ohio State quarterback Will Howard (18) runs against Texas during the second half of the Cotton Bowl College Football Playoff semifinal game, Jan. 10, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File)

SEC coaches and players defend their dominance amid Big Ten’s recent success

July 17, 2025

The SEC Media Days this week highlighted the ongoing rivalry between the SEC and the Big Ten in college football. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey emphasized the conference’s dominance, citing top TV viewership and NFL draft picks. Over the past decade, the SEC has won six national championships, but the last two victories — by Michigan and Ohio State — have fueled competition. Coaches and players, like Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz, defended the SEC as the strongest conference. The rivalry continues with key matchups early this season.

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Golden State Valkyries center Temi Fagbenle (14) loses the ball against Seattle Storm forward Ezi Magbegor (13) and guard Erica Wheeler, right, during the first half of a WNBA basketball game Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

WNBA players say league’s proposal for new CBA falls short after All-Star bargaining meeting

July 17, 2025

WNBA players and league officials met Thursday before the start of the All-Star weekend festivities for discussions on a new collective bargaining agreement. All-Stars Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese were among about 40 players who took part in the first face-to-face meeting featuring players since December. Players opted out of the current CBA last October and are seeking a better revenue sharing model, increased salaries, improved benefits, and a softer salary cap. The sides are far apart in preliminary discussions and agreed to another meeting this weekend.

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FILE - A Rick Ware Racing patch is displayed on the fire suit of driver Cody Ware prior to the NASCAR Cup Series 300 auto race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, N.H., Sunday, Sept. 24, 2017. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

Judge denies 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports’ request to race with charters

July 17, 2025

A federal judge has denied a request from 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports to race with charters while battling NASCAR in court. This decision means their six cars will compete as open entries at Dover this weekend and Indianapolis next week. The teams argue this move risks their businesses, as charters guarantee race spots and base payouts. NASCAR has assured the court it won’t sell the disputed charters before a preliminary injunction ruling. The case, set for trial in December, stems from the teams rejecting NASCAR’s charter extension offer. None of the affected drivers are locked into this year’s playoffs.

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FILE - Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) celebrates his sack during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams, File)

The Pittsburgh Steelers make star linebacker T.J. Watt the NFL’s highest-paid defender

July 17, 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made star outside linebacker T.J. Watt the NFL’s highest-paid defender. A person with knowledge of the deal tells The Associated Press that Watt has agreed to a three-year pact that will average $41 million annually. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal had not yet been made public.  Watt, who was entering the final season of the four-year extension he signed in 2021, skipped organized team activities and mandatory minicamp to put pressure on the Steelers’ front office for a new contract.

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Manny Pacquiao speaks during a news conference Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)

Pacquiao is back, but how back is he? Saturday’s fight against Barrios will reveal all

July 17, 2025

Manny Pacquiao is stepping back into the ring Saturday night, aiming to take the WBC welterweight title from Mario Barrios. This marks Pacquiao’s first fight in nearly four years since losing to Yordenis Ugás. The 46-year-old boxing legend, with 12 world championships across eight divisions, says he’s in top condition and ready to prove himself. Barrios, a 30-year-old with a 29-2-1 record, is determined to defend his title and spoil Pacquiao’s return. Both fighters have shown mutual respect ahead of the bout but promise an intense showdown. The co-main event features Sebastian Fundora against Tim Tszyu in a rematch.

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Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert stands on the field during training camp for the NFL football team Thursday, July 17, 2025, in El Segundo, Calif. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer)

Justin Herbert surprises teammates with red-tinted contact lenses at Chargers camp

July 17, 2025

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is testing tinted contact lenses during training camp. He wore them on Thursday under sunny skies after trying them earlier in the week with rookies. Herbert says the lenses, which act like sunglasses, help reduce squinting. He previously tried a tinted visor but disliked constantly cleaning it. The contacts make his blue eyes appear red, surprising teammates in the huddle. Herbert believes he could wear them in games with a medical prescription for his sensitive eyes. He says the lenses improve his vision on the field, which could enhance his performance.

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FILE - Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice carries after a catch during warmups before an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sept. 15, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann, File)

Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice sentenced to 30 days in jail over Dallas high-speed crash

July 17, 2025

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice has been sentenced to 30 days in jail after authorities said he and another speeding driver caused a chain-reaction crash on a Dallas highway last year. Prosecutors say Rice was driving a Lamborghini Urus SUV at 119 mph when he caused the March 2024 wreck. Multiple people were injured. On Thursday, Rice pleaded guilty to felony charges, including causing serious bodily injury. As part of a plea deal, he also received five years of deferred probation and must pay $115,000 for victims’ medical expenses. In a statement, Rice apologized for the harm caused and pledged to make amends to those affected.

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President Donald Trump speaks during a ceremony to sign the "Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act," in the East Room of the White House, Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Trump will visit Scotland, where his family has golf courses, and will talk trade with Starmer

July 17, 2025

President Donald Trump plans to visit Scotland next week. The White House says Trump will be in Turnberry and Aberdeen and plans to meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss trade. The July 25-29 trip includes stops at Turnberry, home to a historic golf course and resort Trump purchased in 2014, and Aberdeen, where there is one Trump golf course and a second one opens in August. Trump previously said he’d meet with Starmer in Aberdeen. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt also confirmed Thursday the Republican president and first lady Melania Trump will visit the United Kingdom in September for a state visit, meeting King Charles at Windsor Castle.

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Arizona Diamondbacks' Ketel Marte watches his two run double in the first at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Diamondbacks star Ketel Marte’s home burglarized during All-Star break

July 17, 2025

Police are investigating a burglary at a home reportedly owned by Arizona Diamondbacks star Ketel Marte. The incident occurred Tuesday night while Marte was playing in the MLB All-Star game in Atlanta. Authorities describe it as a “high-dollar residential burglary” involving stolen personal items and jewelry. No one was home during the break-in. Records from the Maricopa County Assessor’s Office confirm Marte owns a property on the block. Marte contributed to the National League’s victory with a two-run double in the first inning. The investigation remains active, and no further details have been released.

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FILE - The Colorado Rockies rest on the dugout rail while trailing the Boston Red Sox in the ninth inning of a baseball game at Fenway Park, Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

Rock bottom? Rockies try to avoid worst mark over 162-game season as they emerge from All-Star break

July 17, 2025

The Colorado Rockies are enduring a historically dismal season, sitting at 22-74. They’re on pace for 125 losses a year after the Chicago White Sox went 41-121, which is the worst mark since baseball adopted a 162-game schedule in 1961. The slump led to the firing of manager Bud Black in May. Last weekend, the team drafted Ethan Holliday with the fourth overall pick for a glimmer of hope down the road. The Rockies haven’t won back-to-back home games this season and risk setting a record this weekend for losing the most home series in a row. Despite the struggles, attendance remains robust, averaging over 30,000 fans per game.

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander smiles after winning the Best Athlete Men's Sports award at the ESPY Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, Wednesday, July 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Simone Biles win top honors at ESPYS

July 16, 2025

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Simone Biles have been named Best Male and Female Athletes at the ESPYS. Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma City Thunder to an NBA title last month and was also named league MVP. Biles, an 11-time Olympic medalist, won for her standout performance at the Paris Games, earning three golds and a silver. Suni Lee received the Best Comeback award after battling kidney diseases. Basketball legend Oscar Robertson was honored with the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage for his groundbreaking work in NBA labor rights. Comedian Shane Gillis hosted the event, drawing mixed reactions for his controversial monologue.

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Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark watches during the first half of a WNBA basketball game against the New York Liberty Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Caitlin Clark sidelined again with another injury heading into All-Star weekend

July 16, 2025

The Indiana Fever might be without star guard Caitlin Clark again for a bit after she injured her groin Tuesday night late in a win over the Connecticut Sun. It will be a busy week for the league’s young star if she can play at all. She sat out the team’s 98-77 loss against New York and her status for WNBA All-Star weekend, which Indiana is hosting, is up in the air. Clark is supposed to compete in a loaded 3-point contest Friday night and is captain of one of the All-Star teams.

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Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark (22) reacts with a possible injury beside Aliyah Boston (7) during the second half of a WNBA basketball game against the Connecticut Sun, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

Caitlin Clark, Sabrina Ionescu and Allisha Gray headline WNBA All-Star 3-point contest

July 16, 2025

Caitlin Clark will hopefully be in a 3-point contest for the first time in her pro career as the Indiana Fever guard is set to compete Friday night in the WNBA All-Star competition. Clark injured her groin on Tuesday night in the last minute of the Fever’s game against Connecticut and it’s unknown if she’ll be able to participate this weekend in either the contest or the All-Star Game. She’ll be joined by contest record holder Sabrina Ionescu, who is back in the 3-point contest after a one-year hiatus. Ionescu last entered the contest in 2023 and set a record hitting 25 of her 27 shots in the final round, scoring 37 points. It was the most shots made in a 3-point contest in either the WNBA or NBA.

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Tennessee embraces QB battle as Florida, Mississippi State seek new heights

July 16, 2025

The Southeastern Conference’s evolving quarterback situations continued to be a focal point of SEC media days. Florida quarterback DJ Lagway went 6-1 after taking over as the starter midway through 2024, creating some buzz around the Gators heading into year four of the Billy Napier era. Mississippi State quarterback Blake Shapen is back after a shoulder injury ended his 2024 season in September, and the Bulldogs are looking to respond from a winless league campaign in year two under Jeff Lebby. Meanwhile, Tennessee has an ongoing quarterback battle with three participants, headlined by Appalachian State transfer Joey Aguilar.

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FILE - Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) dribbles against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri, File)

Bradley Beal, 3-time All-Star, agrees to buyout with the Phoenix Suns, AP source says

July 16, 2025

Bradley Beal and the Phoenix Suns have agreed to a buyout on the final two years of his contract. That’s according to a person with knowledge of the deal who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because the deal hasn’t been officially announced. ESPN reports that the buyout paves the way for Beal to sign a two-year, $11 million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers. Beal is expected to give back $13.9 million of the $110 million he’s owed from the Suns, which allows Phoenix more flexibility as it tries to rebuild its roster.

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FILE - Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer watches during Alabama's A-Day NCAA college football practice and autograph session, Saturday, April 12, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt, File)

Kalen DeBoer is looking to escape Nick Saban’s shadow and lead Tide back to playoffs in 2nd season

July 16, 2025

Kalen DeBoer is looking to restore Alabama as one of the nation’s top college football teams. At the same time, he’s looking to escape the shadow of Nick Saban. DeBoer is entering his second season as Alabama coach after a 9-4 finish in his 2024 debut. DeBoer said at SEC media days that his team “fell short” last season because it failed to qualify for the playoffs. He says the Crimson Tide have learned from their shortcomings and are in position to enjoy greater success in 2025. DeBoer says Alabama must “be better in the big moments” this season.

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Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese reacts after a foul call during the second half of a WNBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Sparks, Sunday, June 29, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh)

Angel Reese misses Sky’s final game before All-Star break with leg injury

July 16, 2025

Angel Reese didn’t play in the Chicago Sky’s final game before the All-Star break because of a leg injury. The All-Star forward sat on the bench Wednesday as the Sky hosted the Atlanta Dream. She is set to make her second All-Star Game appearance this weekend in Indianapolis. Fellow second-year All-Star Caitlin Clark’s availability for the game in her home arena could also be in jeopardy after she sustained a groin injury Tuesday night in a victory over the Connecticut Sun in Boston. Reese had 22 points and 10 rebounds Monday for her ninth straight double-double in Chicago’s 91-78 loss to Minnesota. She leads the WNBA with 12.6 rebounds per game.

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FILE - Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin (8) looks on during a faceoff against the Carolina Hurricanes during the first period of an NHL hockey game in Raleigh, N.C., Wednesday, April 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Karl DeBlaker, File)

NHL releases the 2025-26 schedule, the last 82-game season before new CBA increases it to 84

July 16, 2025

The NHL has released the full 2025-26 schedule. It is the final 82-game season before the new collective bargaining agreement kicks in and increases to 84. Alex Ovechkin begins his 21st season on Oct. 8 when he and the Washington Capitals host Boston. Ovechkin is at 897 career goals after breaking Wayne Gretzky’s record and can now surpass 900. After raising their second consecutive Stanley Cup banner on opening night Oct. 7 against Chicago, the back-to-back defending champion Florida Panthers host Philadelphia two days later. The league’s 32 teams will combine to play 1,312 games between Oct. 7 and April 16 with the playoffs to run from then through much of June.

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FILE - New York Islanders' Mike Bossy, left, watches the puck about to be deflected by New York Rangers goalie Wayne Thomas during an NHL hockey game at New York's Madison Square Garden, Nov. 12, 1978. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine, File)

Wayne Thomas, ex-NHL goalie, assistant and executive dies at 77

July 16, 2025

Former NHL goaltender Wayne Thomas, who went on to have a lengthy career in hockey as a coach and an executive, has died from cancer. He was 77. A spokesperson for the San Jose Sharks confirmed the team learned of Thomas’ death Wednesday from his family. Thomas tended goal for Montreal, Toronto and the New York Rangers from 1973-80. He immediately went into coaching and spent time as an assistant with New York, Chicago, St. Louis and San Jose. He then spent nearly two decades in the Sharks’ front office from the mid-1990s through 2015.

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Pittsburgh Pirates' Adam Frazier walks back to the dugout after striking out during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins, Friday, July 11, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Royals reacquire Adam Frazier in an All-Star break trade with the Pirates

July 16, 2025

The Kansas City Royals have reacquired veteran utility player Adam Frazier in an All-Star break trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Kansas City sent minor league infielder Cam Devanney to Pittsburgh. Frazier has played in 78 games this season split between second base, left field and right field, hitting .255 with 21 RBIs. He spent last season with KC after bouncing around the majors following his start with the Pirates. The 33-year-old has played every position except catcher and pitcher during his career since debuting in 2016. Frazier joins the Royals as they are 4 1/2 games out of the final AL wild-card spot.

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Oakmont bans former US Open champion Wyndham Clark for damaging locker

July 16, 2025

Oakmont is banning former U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark from returning to the club until he pays for damaging his locker. Golf Digest has obtained a letter that club president John Lynch has sent to Oakmont members. Clark damaged the locker during last month’s U.S. Open and a photo was leaked that went viral. Lynch says Clark won’t be allowed on the property until he pays for the damage, makes a charity donation to the club’s choice and seeks counseling. Oakmont has hosted the most U.S. Opens. The next one is in 2033. That’s when Clark’s 10-year exemption from winning runs out.

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Miami's Kyle Stowers challenge is being reviewed during eighth inning at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Cal Raleigh successful as 4 of 5 challenges reverse calls in first All-Star use of robot umpire

July 15, 2025

Seattle catcher Cal Raleigh successfully used the robot umpire to gain a strikeout for pitcher Tarik Skubal in the first inning of the All-Star Game. He changed an 0-2 pitch to a strike on San Diego’s Manny Machado. Four of five challenges of plate umpire Dan Iassogna’s calls were successful in the first All-Star use of the ABS system, which could make its regular-season debut next year. The players’ association is unsure whether the Automated Ball-Strike System is accurate enough. A decision for 2026 use likely will be considered by sport’s 11-man competition committee.

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Philadelphia Phillies Kyle Schwarber celebrates after winning the tiebreaker at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Kyle Schwarber’s 3 homers in All-Star Game’s first tiebreaking swing-off lift NL over AL

July 15, 2025

Kyle Schwarber went 3 for 3 in the first All-Star Game home run swing-off to put the National League ahead 4-3 following a 6-6 tie in which the American League rallied from a six-run deficit. In baseball’s equivalent of soccer’s penalty-kicks shootout, the game was decided by having three batters from each league take three swings each off coaches. The change was agreed to in 2022 to alleviate the concern of teams running out of pitchers. Schwarber was named All-Star MVP after going 0 for 2 with a walk in the game.

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Fans, watch a Hank Aaron Memorial during the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

MLB honors Hank Aaron with recreation of record 715th homer during All-Star Game

July 15, 2025

Major League Baseball honored late Hall of Famer Hank Aaron by recreating his record-breaking 715th career home run through the use of projection mapping and custom pyrotechnics. The lights went down at Truist Park and fans stood holding their cell phone lights following the sixth inning of Tuesday night’s All-Star Game. The scene from April 8, 1974 at old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium was projected on the infield and also shown on the video board. Aaron’s widow, Billye Aaron, was cheered as she stood and waved following the tribute.

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Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark sits on the bench after an apparent injury during the second half of a WNBA basketball game against the Connecticut Sun, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

Caitlin Clark leaves with apparent injury, marring the mood after the Fever beat the Sun in Boston

July 15, 2025

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark left Tuesday night’s game in the final minute holding back tears after grabbing at her leg — an apparent injury that would be her third this season. Clark walked back downcourt holding her right groin after assisting on the Fever’s final basket of an 85-77 victory over the Connecticut Sun in front of a sold-out crowd at the TD Garden in Boston. As teammate Aliyah Boston tried to console her, Clark walked to the basket stanchion and banged her head against it before heading to the bench. During the timeout, she covered her head with a towel and appeared to be holding back tears.

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NBA commissioner Adam Silver announces the start of the first round of the NBA basketball draft, Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

NBA will take a harder look at expansion, Commissioner Adam Silver says

July 15, 2025

The NBA may finally be one step closer on the long road to expansion. Commissioner Adam Silver said Tuesday that the league has been tasked by team owners to study the issue more formally, which would be the first official move in a long process toward adding franchises. The decision to take a harder look at expansion wasn’t totally unexpected, since the notion of adding clubs has been a talking point for several years. Cities like Las Vegas and Seattle, the long perceived front-runners should the NBA decide to expand past its current 30-team footprint, will surely continue to push to be the eventual picks.

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People attend a launch event announcing Portland Fire as the name of Portland's WNBA basketball franchise outside the Moda Center on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Portland, Ore. (AP Photo/Jenny Kane)

Expansion WNBA team brings back the original Portland Fire name

July 15, 2025

Oregon’s WNBA team stepped back in time for its new name, reintroducing the Portland Fire. The expansion franchise, which begins play next next season alongside the Toronto Tempo, announced its name and branding on Tuesday — reviving the moniker of the city’s previous WNBA team that played from 2000 to 2002. Interim Fire president Clare Hamill says “fans have been waiting for us to come back, and we’re back with the Portland Fire.” In addition to the name, the team has a new “Rose on Fire” logo and a color palette of red, brown, blue and pink.

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Paris Saint-Germain's goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma can't make the save on the second goal scored by Chelsea's Cole Palmer during the Club World Cup final soccer match between Chelsea and PSG in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, July 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

Club World Cup final averaged 1.3 million viewers on TBS

July 15, 2025

Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain averaged 1.3 million viewers on TBS and the 24 matches televised in the U.S. with English commentary averaged 458,000. Spanish-language coverage of the final in the U.S. on Univision and TUDN averaged 1.43 million viewers and TelevisaUnivision’s 18 games averaged 597,000. The streaming service DAZN bought world rights from FIFA and sublicensed a portion of the 63 matches to TNT, which televised games on TNT, TBS and truTV, and to TelevisaUnivision for U.S. broadcast with Spanish commentary. DAZN has not yet released viewing figures.

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MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred speaks during the first round of the MLB baseball draft Sunday, July, 13, 2025 in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

A lockout is looming over MLB in December 2026, with a salary cap fight possibly at the center

July 15, 2025

Major League Baseball faces a potential lockout in December 2026. Players and management have long clashed over salary cap proposals, a format that union head Tony Clark criticizes as harmful to competition and player salary guarantees. Commissioner Rob Manfred argues the cap could address payroll disparities as MLB also tries to deal with declining revenue from regional sports networks. Teams like the Dodgers and Mets have pushed payrolls to record levels, highlighting disparity. Baseball’s collective bargaining agreement expires in December 2026, and past negotiations have led to nine work stoppages.

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FILE - Bob Jenkins, owner of Front Row Motorsports, and Michael Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing, pose before a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Talladega Superspeedway, Oct. 6, 2024, in Talladega, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill, File)

Fights over charters loom over NASCAR as teams, series await key court rulings

July 15, 2025

NASCAR hits midsummer amid legal battles involving team charters, a key part of its business model. Two teams, including Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing, are suing NASCAR over antitrust issues. They claim losing their charters could force them out of business. A federal court ruling is expected soon, with a trial set for December. Separately, Jimmie Johnson’s Legacy Motor Club is in a dispute with Rick Ware Racing over a charter sale. Johnson hopes to secure the charter, while the legal chaos highlights the skyrocketing value of NASCAR charters.

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FILE - Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Tony Clark answers a question during a news conference in New York on March 11, 2022. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File)

Major League Baseball, union could let big leaguers in 2028 Olympics during extended All-Star break

July 15, 2025

Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred and players’ union head Tony Clark say plans are moving ahead exploring the possibility of using major leaguers in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, a tournament that could be played on an extended All-Star break. MLB met with Los Angeles organizers Monday in Atlanta ahead of the All-Star Game and Manfred said the Olympic officials were meeting with the Major League Baseball Players Association. The World Baseball Softball Confederation said Monday the baseball tournament will be played from July 15-20 at Dodger Stadium. Manfred says “We’ll see whether there’s any movement on that.”

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FILE - New York Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner (1) follows a play during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024 in London. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano, File)

Jets make Sauce Gardner the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback with a $120.4M extension, AP source says

July 15, 2025

The New York Jets are making Sauce Gardner the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL. The Jets and Gardner agreed on a four-year, $120.4 million extension through the 2030 season, a person familiar with the deal tells The Associated Press. The contract paying the two-time All-Pro more than $30 million a year comes a day after the Jets agreed to another lucrative extension with top wide receiver Garrett Wilson. Gardner is going into his fourth professional season after New York took him fourth in the 2022 draft.

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Hugh Freeze, QB Jackson Arnold are confident Auburn can be a winner in 2025

July 15, 2025

Auburn coach Hugh Freeze and incoming transfer quarterback Jackson Arnold are both confident the Tigers can consistently win in 2025. Freeze went just 11-14 across his first two seasons in Auburn, the first time in his collegiate coaching career he has suffered back-to-back losing seasons. Bolstered by a strong returning wide receiver corps and what Freeze called his favorite offensive line he has had at Auburn, the Tigers are trying to close the gap on the rest of the SEC, specifically with losing streaks against rivals Alabama and Georgia.

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FILE - Italy's Dan Serafini throws before the first inning of an exhibition spring training baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels Wednesday, March 6, 2013, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Morry Gash, File)

Former MLB pitcher Dan Serafini is convicted of murder in the 2021 shootings of his wife’s parents

July 15, 2025

Retired MLB pitcher Daniel Serafini has been convicted of murder and attempted murder in the shootings of his wife’s parents during a burglary at their home four years ago near Lake Tahoe in California. A Placer County jury on Monday found the 51-year-old guilty of killing his father-in-law, Gary Spohr, and severely wounding his mother-in-law, Wendy Wood. Wood received extensive rehabilitation but died a year after the shooting. Prosecutors said Serafini and his in-laws had a rocky relationship and argued over money. A left-hander, Serafini was drafted in 1992 by the Minnesota Twins. He also played for the Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres, Pittsburgh Pirates, Cincinnati Reds and Colorado Rockies.

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Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark dribbles during the second half of a WNBA basketball game against the Dallas Wings, Sunday, July 13, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)

WNBA ready for the spotlight with All-Star Game in Indiana this weekend

July 15, 2025

The WNBA finishes off the first half of its season this week before heading into the All-Star break in Indiana, which will be a showcase for young star Caitlin Clark. The Fever have three all-stars with Clark, Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell all playing in the game Saturday. Clark, who is one of the captains, took both her Indiana teammates for her team in the game. Before Saturday’s contest, the Fever have a busy week with back-to-back games against Connecticut, in Boston, and New York.

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FILE - The WNBA logo is seen near a hoop before an WNBA basketball game at Mohegan Sun Arena, Tuesday, May 14, 2019, in Uncasville, Conn. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill, File)

WNBA players and the league are far apart on new CBA talks ahead of in-person discussions

July 15, 2025

The WNBA players union and league officials have much to discuss when they sit down this week for their first in-person talks as a group since December about the new collective bargaining agreement. The two sides are hoping for a transformational new collective bargaining agreement. After sharing initial proposals, Phoenix Mercury forward and union rep Satou Sabally said the league’s offer was “a slap in the face.” The two sides are scheduled to have their first face-to-face meeting in Indianapolis on Thursday. Increased salaries, revenue sharing and roster size are three areas where the union hopes to see major changes from the current CBA.

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Seattle Mariners' Cal Raleigh, watches with his dad Todd who pitched and brother Todd Jr. catcher during the MLB baseball All-Star Home Run Derby, Monday, July 14, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

With family support, Cal Raleigh becomes first catcher, switch-hitter to win Home Run Derby

July 14, 2025

Seattle’s Cal Raleigh won his first All-Star Home Run Derby after leading the big leagues in long balls going into the break, defeating Tampa Bay’s Junior Caminero 18-15 in the final round. The Mariners’ breakout slugger nicknamed Big Dumper advanced from the first round on a tiebreaker by less than an inch over the Athletics’ Brent Rooker, then won his semifinal 19-13 over Pittsburgh’s Oneil Cruz, whose 513-foot first-round drive over Truist Park’s right-center field seats was the longest of the night. Hitting second in the final round, the 22-year-old Caminero closed within three dingers, took three pitches and hit a liner to left field.

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The SEC and Big Ten are currently at a standstill over the College Football Playoff format

July 14, 2025

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey says the SEC and Big Ten have not agreed on a College Football Playoff format beyond this season. Sankey noted frequent discussions with Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti but highlighted differing views on playoff allocations. The current 12-team playoff guarantees spots for the five highest-ranked conference champions. Sankey emphasized collaboration but stated changes could proceed without unanimous agreement. The CFP contract allows the SEC and Big Ten to propose and impose changes if aligned.

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FILE - Philadelphia 76ers' Paul George plays during an NBA basketball game against the Brooklyn Nets, Feb. 22, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File)

Paul George has arthroscopic knee surgery after recent workout injury

July 14, 2025

The Philadelphia 76ers say wing player Paul George has had arthroscopic surgery Monday on his left knee to treat an injury that occurred during a recent workout. The club says George’s rehabilitation program is now set to begin and he will be re-evaluated prior to the start of training camp. George turned 35 on May 2 and is entering the second year of a $212 million, four-year contract he signed in free agency last summer. Last season he was limited by injuries to 41 games and averaged 16.2 points, well below the nine-time NBA All-Star’s career average 20.6 points in 908 games.

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FILE - Detroit Lions quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (12) throws against the Washington Commanders during the first half of an NFL football divisional playoff game, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

Ex-NFL QB Bridgewater says he is suspended from high school coaching for giving benefits to players

July 14, 2025

Former NFL quarterback Teddy Bridgewater said he has been suspended from coaching his former high school team in Miami because he provided players with financial benefits that he says he’d reported to the school. The 32-year-old Bridgewater publicized action taken against him by Miami Northwestern High School in a social media post in which he also reaffirmed his desire to continuing coaching the team for which he once played. School officials did not return messages left on Monday. Last fall marked Bridgewater’s first season coaching his former school, which he led to a Class 3A state championship before signing with Detroit in late December to serve as a backup for the playoff-bound Lions.

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Milwaukee Brewers' Jacob Misiorowski reacts after striking out Los Angeles Dodgers' Freddie Freeman during the third inning of a baseball game Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Aaron Gash)

Dave Roberts defends Jacob Misiorowski’s All-Star selection as an ‘easy answer’

July 14, 2025

National League All-Star manager Dave Roberts said including Milwaukee rookie right-hander Jacob Misiorowski on his team was “an easy answer” despite complaints from some players over his inclusion after just five big league appearances. Misiorowski has pitched in only five games, a record low for an All-Star, creating a debate between those who say the game is for the most deserving players and those who say the game is for the fans. The 23-year-old created an instant stir when he threw a 100.5 mph fastball for his first pitch in the big leagues.

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FILE - New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson answers questions during a news conference following NFL football practice, May 21, 2025, in Florham Park, N.J. (AP Photo/Noah K. Murray, File)

Jets and receiver Garrett Wilson agree on a 4-year, $130M contract extension, AP source says

July 14, 2025

The New York Jets and wide receiver Garrett Wilson have agreed on a four-year, $130 million contract extension. A person familiar with the situation confirmed the deal Monday, though it has not been officially announced. Wilson, drafted 10th overall in 2022, was the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year that season and has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first three years. Jets management, including general manager Darren Mougey and coach Aaron Glenn, have focused on building a younger roster.

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Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani scores against the San Francisco Giants during the 11th inning of a baseball game in San Francisco, Sunday, July 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

Shohei Ohtani to hit leadoff for NL in All-Star Game, followed by Ronald Acuña Jr. of host Braves

July 14, 2025

Shohei Ohtani will bat leadoff as the designated hitter for the National League in Tuesday’s MLB All-Star Game at Truist Park. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced the NL lineup, with Ronald Acuña Jr. batting second and Ketel Marte third. Paul Skenes of the Pirates will start for the NL, while Detroit’s Tarik Skubal will pitch for the AL. Gleyber Torres will lead off for the AL, followed by Riley Greene and Aaron Judge. Skenes and Skubal rank first and second in fastball velocity this season. Skenes has a 2.01 ERA, while Skubal, the reigning AL Cy Young winner, holds a 2.23 ERA.

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Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Charlie Morton (50) delivers during the second inning in the first baseball game of a doubleheader against the New York Mets, Thursday, July 10, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Curveballs are disappearing in MLB as velocity obsession reshapes pitching landscape

July 14, 2025

Curveballs are disappearing from Major League Baseball as pitchers prioritize velocity, emphasizing sliders and sweepers. Curveball usage dropped from 10.7% in 2019 to 8.4% this season, with 22,962 fewer thrown in 2024 than five years earlier. Pitchers and coaches say the focus has shifted to harder, faster pitches that generate more swings and misses. Batters are hitting .225 against curveballs this season, lower than fastballs. The game continues evolving toward power and speed.

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Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton, right, takes as seat for interviews flanked by teammate wide receiver Caleb Douglas during the Big 12 NCAA college football media days in Frisco, Texas, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

Texas Tech hoping big money and top transfers lead to unprecedented payback in football

July 14, 2025

Texas Tech is investing a lot of money into its athletes, and has brought in a lot of football players from the transfer portal. The hope now is that the payback will be unprecedented success on the field. It has been widely reported that there will be about $55 million going to Red Raider athletes this year. A significant chunk is going into the football program that has never won a Big 12 title. There are 22 incoming transfers, most of them expected to have an immediate impact. Coach Joey McGuire says his team understands the importance of this season.

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Chelsea pleayers celebrate with the championship trophy after the Club World Cup final soccer match between Chelsea and PSG in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, July 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Chelsea’s Cole Palmer surprised to share Club World Cup podium spotlight with Donald Trump

July 14, 2025

Cole Palmer was surprised to find U.S. President Donald Trump on the stand as Chelsea received the Club World Cup trophy after a 3-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain. Palmer received the Golden Ball as top player of the tournament after scoring the first two goals of the final. Trump appeared to leave the award stand with a medal of his own, handed to him by FIFA President Gianni Infantino right after the one presented to Reece James. Palmer had his name up in the bright lights this weekend, posing for a photo in front of a huge video board of his image near Madison Square Garden.

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The Washington Nationals select Eli Willits, of Oklahoma in the first round of the MLB baseball draft Sunday, July, 13, 2025 in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Nationals take Eli Willits with No. 1 pick in MLB draft, first of record 17 first-round shortstops

July 13, 2025

The Washington Nationals selected Oklahoma high school shortstop Eli Willits with the No. 1 pick in Major League Baseball’s amateur draft in a selection seen by some as a surprise. The 17-year-old Willits is the youngest player taken No. 1 overall since Ken Griffey Jr. to Seattle in 1987, according to MLB. He’s the son of ex-big leaguer Reggie Willits, who played six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels and also coached with the New York Yankees. Willits, from Fort Cobb-Broxton High School, is a switch-hitter who is expected to develop a power swing. The draft came one week after the Nationals fired longtime general manager Mike Rizzo and manager Dave Martinez.

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Shane van Gisbergen, center, celebrates with his crew after winning a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Sonoma Raceway, Sunday, July 13, 2025, in Sonoma, Calif. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)

Shane van Gisbergen dominates on another road course, wins at Sonoma to extend streak

July 13, 2025

Shane van Gisbergen extended his winning streak to two straight and three victories in the last five weeks with yet another dominating run on a road course. The New Zealander once again showed he’s in a completely different class on road and street courses than his rivals as he led 97 of 110 laps Sunday to win from pole at Sonoma Raceway. All three of his wins this year have been from pole. That ties him with Jeff Gordon for the NASCAR record. Van Gisbergen is the fastest driver to win four Cup Series races since Parnelli Jones in 1969.

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Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona signals to his team against the Colorado Rockies during the third inning of a baseball game, Sunday, July 13, 2025, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)

Terry Francona gets his 2,000th managerial win as the Reds beat the Rockies 4-2

July 13, 2025

Terry Francona has added another milestone to his impressive career. Francona became the 13th manager in major league history to reach 2,000 wins when the Cincinnati Reds beat the Colorado Rockies 4-2. The 66-year-old Francona joins Texas’ Bruce Bochy as the only active managers with at least 2,000 wins. Ten of the 12 other managers who have accumulated at least 2,000 wins are in the Hall of Fame. Bochy and Dusty Baker, who isn’t yet eligible, are the only exceptions.

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Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark goes for a loose ball during the first half of a WNBA basketball game against the Dallas Wings, Sunday, July 13, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)

Clark, Fever get best of Bueckers, Wings in first pro matchup of WNBA stars

July 13, 2025

Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers each produced remarkably efficient stat lines in their first professional matchup. The ultimate result wasn’t nearly as close. Clark helped Indiana dominate the second quarter as the Fever ran away from the Dallas Wings 102-83. Clark had 14 points and a season-high 13 assists in just 25 minutes. Bueckers wound up with 21 points, four rebounds and four assists in 33 minutes. It was a head-to-head matchup that lived up to the hype of the past two No. 1 overall picks squaring off.

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FILE - Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh, front left, watches against Rutgers as analytics assistant Connor Stalions, right, looks on during an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Sept. 23, 2023. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, file)

Michigan’s sign-stealer, Conor Stalions, says he knew most signals in 7 games over 2 seasons

July 13, 2025

Former Michigan football staff member Connor Stalions says he knew almost every signal opponents used in seven games over two seasons. Stalions shared those details Saturday on social media, responding to TCU coach Sonny Dykes telling On3 that his team changed some signs in advance of its win over the Wolverines in the 2022 College Football semifinals. Stalions’ actions triggered an NCAA investigation. Michigan had a hearing with the NCAA’s Committee on Infractions last month, and the governing body takes three months on average for contested cases to make a final decision.

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Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) reacts after scoring a goal during the first half of an MLS soccer match against Nashville SC, Saturday, July 12, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Messi has 5th straight multi-goal game as Miami snaps Nashville’s unbeaten streak with 2-1 win

July 12, 2025

Lionel Messi extended his historic streak to five straight multi-goal games, and Inter Miami snapped Nashville SC’s 15-match unbeaten streak with a 2-1 win. Miami (11-3-5) won its fifth straight match and moved to fifth in the Supporter’s Shield standings as it aims to win the title for the second straight season. Messi entered Saturday’s match as the only player in Major League Soccer history with four straight multi-goal games after scoring two in Miami’s win over the New England Revolution on Wednesday.

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Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Paul Skenes delivers during the third inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins, Friday, July 11, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Paul Skenes to start 2nd straight All-Star Game for NL and Tarik Skubal to open for AL

July 12, 2025

Pittsburgh’s Paul Skenes will start his second consecutive All-Star Game for the National League on Tuesday night. Detroit’s Tarik Skubal will pitch for the American League. The 23-year-old Skenes will be the first to start back-to-back All-Star Games since 2018. He leads the majors with a 2.01 ERA despite a 4-8 record. Skubal, 28, is the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner and is 10-3 with a 2.23 ERA. Skenes and Skubal are 1-2 in average four-seam fastball velocity among those with 1,500 or more pitches this season, Skenes at 98.2 mph and Skubal at 97.6 mph, according to MLB Statcast.

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Cardinal Blase Cupich, right, presents former White Sox player Paul Konerko with a jersey signed by Pope Leo XIV during a ceremony honoring the 2005 World Series Champions before a baseball game between the Cleveland Guardians and Chicago White Sox, Saturday, July 12, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)

From one 14 to another, White Sox great Konerko gets gift from Pope Leo XIV in honor of 2005 title

July 12, 2025

White Sox great Paul Konerko got a present from one No. 14 to another in honor of the 20th anniversary of the 2005 World Series championship run — a jersey signed by noted Chicago fan Pope Leo XIV. Cardinal Blase Cupich, the archbishop of Chicago, presented Konerko a jersey with the new pontiff’s signature on the back during a ceremony prior to the game against the Cleveland Guardians. It had the six-time All-Star’s last name and “Pope Leo” above the No. 14. Robert Prevost became the first pope from the U.S. in the history of the Catholic Church when he was elected on May 8. The Chicago-born missionary, who took the name Leo XIV, is a White Sox fan. Prevost attended the 2005 World Series opener against Houston in Chicago.

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Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani follows through on his pitch to a San Francisco Giants batter during the third inning of a baseball game Saturday, July 12, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)

Shohei Ohtani pitches 3 scoreless innings against the Giants

July 12, 2025

Shohei Ohtani pitched three scoreless innings against the San Francisco Giants as the Dodgers star continues to work his way back from elbow surgery. Working as an opener for the fifth time this season, Ohtani threw 36 pitches, 25 for strikes while serving as Los Angeles’ opener for the fifth time this season. He allowed one hit and struck out the side on 12 pitches in the first inning when his fastball was twice clocked at 99.9 mph. The Giants only two runners against Ohtani came on a four-pitch walk to Jung Hoo Lee in the second inning and Mike Yastrzemski’s single in the third.

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New York Yankees' Aaron Judge (99) runs after hitting a two run home run during the inning of a baseball game against the , Saturday, July 12, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Aaron Judge becomes fastest to 350 homers, doing so in 1,088 games, bettering Mark McGwire’s 1,280

July 12, 2025

Aaron Judge didn’t just become the fastest player to hit 350 home runs, he did it in 192 fewer games than Mark McGwire. Judge homered to right-center on a high 0-2 fastball from Brad Keller, a two-run, ninth-inning drive a couple rows into the right-center field seats during the New York Yankees’ 5-2 loss to the Chicago Cubs. He reached 350 in his 1,088th game. McGwire hit No.350 in his 1,280th game, against Detroit’s Brian Moehler on June 2, 1997, bettering Harmon Killebrew in his 1,319th game

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New York Yankees pitcher Max Fried (54) throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Saturday, July 12, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Yankees All-Star Max Fried forced from start by index finger blister, which caused 4 past IL stints

July 12, 2025

Yankees All-Star left-hander Max Fried left a start against the Chicago Cubs after a season-low three innings because of a a blister on his left index finger. Fried was on the injured list for blisters on his left index finger in 2018, ’19, ’21 and ’23. Fried allowed nine of 18 batters to reach, giving up four runs — three earned — six hits and three walks. He threw just 39 of 73 pitches for strikes, falling behind with first-pitch balls to nine batters.

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Minnesota Twins' Byron Buxton (25) acknowledges the crowd during a curtain call after hitting a solo home run for the cycle during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Saturday, July 12, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Twins’ Byron Buxton hits for the cycle, the first at Target Field since the ballpark opened in 2010

July 12, 2025

Minnesota Twins All-Star center fielder Byron Buxton hit for the cycle Saturday against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Buxton had a single in the first, a triple in the second and a double in the third. After singling again in the fifth, he had one more opportunity in the seventh. Buxton crushed a 427-foot solo homer off Pirates reliever Andrew Heaney with two outs. That brought the crowd to its feet, many of which had received a Buxton bobblehead giveaway at the game. The cycle was the first at Target Field since the ballpark opened in 2010. It was the first cycle by a Twins player since Jorge Polanco had one in 2019.

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Shane van Gisbergen drives to Victory Lane after winning a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at the Grant Park 165, Sunday, July 6, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)

Shane van Gisbergen’s unique braking technique makes him the favorite at Sonoma

July 12, 2025

Shane van Gisbergen proved in his NASCAR debut to be an elite road and street course racer by winning in his first career outing. Two years later, his rivals have gotten a good look at the New Zealander’s technique and have declared him the favorite to win Sunday at Sonoma Raceway. He will start from the pole for the second consecutive week and third time in five races. Van Gisbergen is on a two-race winning streak on the specialty courses following victories on the road course in Mexico City and last Sunday on the streets of Chicago.

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Cincinnati Reds' Jake Fraley rounds third base and scores on a double hit by TJ Friedl during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins, Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Jeff Dean)

Reds’ Jake Fraley has a partially torn labrum that he will attempt to play through this season

July 12, 2025

Cincinnati Reds right fielder Jake Fraley has been activated from the 10-day injured list. He had injured his right shoulder while trying to make a diving catch June 23 against the New York Yankees. An MRI revealed a partially torn labrum that will eventually require surgery. Fraley received a cortisone shot and will try to play through it for the rest of the season. The Reds were 7-4 in his absence. Christian Encarnacion-Strand, who hasn’t played since Noelvi Marte returned from the IL on July 4, was optioned to Triple-A Louisville on Saturday.

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Boston Red Sox pitcher Hunter Dobbins (73) walks off the mound next to manager Alex Cora (13) after an injury during the second inning of a baseball game against the Tampa Bay Rays, Friday, July 11, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Mark Stockwell)

Red Sox RHP Hunter Dobbins says he’s done for season after tearing right ACL

July 12, 2025

Red Sox right-hander Hunter Dobbins has announced his season is over after he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. Covering first base in the second inning of Boston’s 5-4 walk-off win over the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday night, the 25-year-old Dobbins stepped awkwardly and limped after recording an out by making a catch on a throw from first baseman Abraham Toro. Dobbins took one warmup toss before manager Alex Cora stopped him from attempting any more. Dobbins said he tore the same ACL playing high school football.

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Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez reacts at the end of the Club World Cup quarterfinal soccer match between Palmeiras and Chelsea in Philadelphia, Friday, July 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)

Chelsea’s Fernández calls US heat dangerous, says FIFA should avoid afternoon World Cup kickoffs

July 12, 2025

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández heads into Sunday’s Club World Cup final wary of the weather, along with Paris Saint-Germain. Chelsea and PSG play starting at 3 p.m. EDT in MetLife Stadium, also site of next year’s World Cup final. Because of the heat, Fernandez recommended FIFA avoid afternoon kickoffs at the 2026 tournament. FIFA slashed ticket prices again ahead of the final, as it has throughout the tournament. PSG seeks to complete a quadruple after winning Ligue 1, the Coupe de France and its first Champions League title. Chelsea is trying for its second world championship after winning in 2021.

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New York Yankees' Cody Bellinger hits a home run during the third inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Friday, July 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Bellinger hits 3 2-run homers against former team, Yanks beat Cubs 11-0 for 5th win in row

July 12, 2025

Cody Bellinger hit three two-run homers against his former team and was robbed of a fourth, Aaron Judge made a trio of outstanding catches and the New York Yankees routed the Chicago Cubs 11-0 for their fifth straight win following a a six-game losing streak. Carlos Rodón, who became a three-time All-Star when he was added to the AL roster before the game, allowed four hits in eight innings with eight strikeouts and one walk. Bellinger, who played for the Cubs in 2023 and ’24, had his first three-homer game and tied his career high with six RBIs.

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Ireland's Katie Taylor, left, and Puerto Rico's Amanda Serrano pose after a super lightweight championship boxing match Saturday, July 12, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Katie Taylor beats Amanda Serrano for a third time to remain undisputed 140-pound champion

July 11, 2025

Katie Taylor beat Amanda Serrano for the third time, winning a majority decision to remain the undisputed 140-pound champion. Taylor won by scores of 97-93 on two judges’ cards, while the third had it even at 95-95. It was the third straight narrow decision between the two, after Taylor won a split decision in their first bout and a narrow unanimous decision in the rematch. Back in Madison Square Garden, site of their first bout in April 2022, Taylor improved to 25-1 in a fight that perhaps wasn’t as exciting as their first two, but once again was almost too close to call.

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New York Yankees players celebrate with outfielder Aaron Judge, center, after the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Friday, July 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Yankees’ Aaron Judge makes 3 outstanding catches, robs Cubs’ Pete Crow-Armstrong of home run

July 11, 2025

Aaron Judge made three outstanding catches in right field, robbing Pete Crow-Armstrong of a home run, Dansby Swanson of a single and Kyle Tucker of a two-run hit in the New York Yankees’ 11-0 victory over the Chicago Cubs. The 6-foot-7 Judge leaped at the right-field wall to catch a 327-foot drive by Crow-Armstrong against Carlos Rodón in the fourth inning, denying what would have been Crow-Armstrong’s 26th home run. Judge then rushed in and dove for a backhand grab on Swanson’s sinking liner for the third out of the inning and made a sliding catch on Tucker in the eighth.

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New York Yankees' Cody Bellinger hits a home run during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Friday, July 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Yanks’ Cody Bellinger hits 3rd home run of game against Cubs, an inning after being robbed

July 11, 2025

Cody Bellinger hit three two-run homers, leading the New York Yankees to an 11-0 win over the Chicago Cubs. Facing his former team, Bellinger homered in a three-run third off Chris Flexen and in the fifth against Caleb Thielbar. Bellinger nearly went deep in the seventh but was robbed by Kyle Tucker on a drive above the right-field wall. Bellinger homered in the eighth off Jordan Wicks, just above the glove of leaping center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. Traded to the Yankees in December, Bellinger is batting .406 during a career-high 16-game hitting streak.

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Seattle Mariners' Julio Rodríguez celebrates his two-run home run against the Detroit Tigers in the fifth inning during a baseball game, Friday, July 11, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Raleigh hits 37th and 38th homers, Mariners end Skubal’s 3-month unbeaten streak with 12-3 romp

July 11, 2025

Cal Raleigh hit his 37th and 38th home runs to move within one of Barry Bonds’ 2001 record for homers before the All-Star break, and the Seattle Mariners beat Detroit 12-3 on Friday night to end Tarik Skubal’s three-month unbeaten streak. Raleigh — in the lineup as designated hitter — made it 5-3 on a solo shot in the eighth inning, then hit a grand slam in a seven-run ninth. Skubal (10-3) was 10-0 with a 1.62 ERA in 16 starts since losing 3-2 to the Mariners in Seattle on April 2. He allowed four runs on four hits and two walks in five innings, striking out five. Luis Castillo (6-5) got the win, giving up three runs in five innings.

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Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani runs the bases after hitting a two-run home run during the third inning of a baseball game against the San Francisco Giants, Friday, July 11, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)

Shohei Ohtani crushes 32nd home run into San Francisco’s McCovey Cove

July 11, 2025

Dodgers slugger Shohei Ohtani splashed his 32nd home run of the season into San Francisco’s McCovey Cove beyond the right-field wall. It marked the 65th home run into the water by an opponent in Oracle Park’s 25-year history and 171st in all — and 35 of those belong to home run king Barry Bonds. Ohtani connected with one out in the third inning for a two-run drive after Hyeseong Kim’s leadoff single marked the first hit of the night for Los Angeles against Giants starter Logan Webb. A kayaker immediately jumped into the water to retrieve the special souvenir ball.

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Seattle Mariners' Cal Raleigh hits a grand slam against the Detroit Tigers in the ninth inning during a baseball game, Friday, July 11, 2025, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Mariners’ Cal Raleigh breaks AL record with 38 homers before the All-Star break

July 11, 2025

Cal Raleigh hit his 37th and 38th home runs in Seattle’s 12-3 victory over Detroit on Friday night to move within one of Barry Bonds’ 2001 major league record for homers before the All-Star break. Raleigh hit a solo homer off former teammate Tyler Holton in the eighth to tie the American League record of 37 set by Reggie Jackson in 1969 and matched by Chris Davis in 2013. Raleigh hit a grand slam off Brant Hurter in the ninth. Seattle has two games left in Detroit before the break.

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Atlanta Braves' Matt Olson (28) high-fives teammates in the dugout after hitting a solo home run in the third inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles, Saturday, July 5, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)

Ronald Acuña Jr. replaced in Home Run Derby by Atlanta teammate and fellow All-Star Matt Olson

July 11, 2025

Ronald Acuña Jr. won’t participate in the Home Run Derby, replaced by Atlanta teammate and fellow All-Star Matt Olson. Acuña is a starting outfielder for the National League and still expected to play in the All-Star Game on his home field. Olson is a reserve infielder. Instead of Acuña, Olson will try to become the first Atlanta player to win the Home Run Derby on Monday night. He could become the fourth to win at home. The All-Star Game is Tuesday night.

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FILE - Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) shoots over Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) during the second half of Game 6 of the NBA Finals basketball series, June 19, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy, File)

Myles Turner gets introduced by the Bucks, says he wants to keep contending for titles

July 11, 2025

Myles Turner wants to keep contending for NBA titles. The Milwaukee Bucks formally introduced Turner — the most significant free agent who switched addresses this summer — on Friday. Turner had spent the entirety of his 10-year NBA career with the Indiana Pacers, who went to the NBA Finals this past season and lost Game 7 of the title series to the Oklahoma City Thunder. He makes Milwaukee younger and likely a bit more versatile. Brook Lopez, who is 37, was Milwaukee’s starting center this past season. Turner is only 29, and even though he’s played 10 seasons already may now just be coming into his prime.

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FILE - Minnesota Timberwolves minority owners Alex Rodriguez, front, and Marc Lore look on in the second half of Game 1 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series against the Denver Nuggets, May 4, 2024, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File)

Lore and A-Rod detail some of their plans for the Timberwolves

July 11, 2025

Alex Rodriguez remembers a very specific lesson that longtime New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner taught him over the years. In a way, it’ll shape his approach when it comes to running the Minnesota Timberwolves. Rodriguez and Marc Lore — the new, finally finalized, co-owners of the Timberwolves and winners in a four-year battle for control of that team and the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx — spoke at NBA Summer League in Las Vegas on Friday. And when asked about how his ownership style might emulate Steinbrenner’s, Rodriguez drew a quick parallel.

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FILE - Gervonta Davis poses after a WBA lightweight championship boxing bout against Rolando Romero, May 29, 2022, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II, File)

Boxer Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis arrested in South Florida on misdemeanor domestic violence charge

July 11, 2025

Professional boxer Gervonta “Tank” Davis has been arrested in South Florida on a misdemeanor domestic violence charge. Miami Beach police say 30-year-old Davis was picked up early Friday morning, shortly after midnight, near the popular Lincoln Road area. Police say the charge was connected to an incident that occurred last month in Doral. Davis and his vehicle information had been added to a law enforcement database, and a license plate reader in Miami Beach flagged his car. Officials say Miami Beach police made the initial stop and then turned Davis over to Doral police. Jail and court records didn’t list an attorney for Davis. His promoter didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

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FILE - UCLA's Megan Grant (43) rounds the bases after hitting a home run during an NCAA softball Women's College World Series elimination game against Tennessee, Sunday, June 1, 2025 in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis, File)

Home runs and hoops: UCLA softball standout Megan Grant also will play basketball in 2025-26

July 11, 2025

Megan Grant, a two-time All-American softball star at UCLA, is joining the Bruins’ women’s basketball team this season. She will play both sports in 2025-26. She set the Big Ten single-season record for home runs with 26 and ranked in the top 10 nationally with 81 RBIs and a .933 slugging percentage this past season. The 5-foot-10 Grant will be listed as a guard/forward. She was a multi-sport star at Aragon High School in San Mateo, California, where she lettered in softball for four years and basketball and volleyball both for three years.

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FILE - Shakur Stevenson, right, punches Germany's Artem Harutyunyan during the ninth round of a WBC world lightweight championship boxing match Sunday, July 7, 2024, in Newark, N.J. Stevenson won the fight. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II, File)

Boxing takes over US Open tennis venue with Berlanga and Stevenson headlining

July 11, 2025

Just as Wimbledon is winding down, action at the home of the U.S. Open will heat up. Boxing action, that is. Swinging rackets will be replaced by swinging fists Saturday night when the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center hosts boxing for the first time. Edgar Berlanga and Shakur Stevenson headline the show in separate bouts on the card, which sends both locally based fighters to a place they’d never visited before. The fights will be in Louis Armstrong Stadium, the No. 2 venue on the grounds.

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Dallas Mavericks guard Ryan Nembhard (9) and forward Cooper Flagg (32) look on during the second half of an NBA summer league basketball game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Thursday, July 10, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker)

Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg draws reviews from pro debut, despite off night in win over Lakers

July 11, 2025

Rookie Cooper Flagg may not have been happy with his professional debut Thursday night in the NBA Summer League, but he still drew rave reviews all around after the Dallas Mavericks defeated the Los Angeles Lakers, 87-85. Flagg finished with 10 points on 5-for-21 shooting, including 0 for 5 from 3-point range. He also had six rebounds, four assists, three steals and the biggest block of the night. With 1:10 remaining and the Mavericks trailing by one, Flagg blocked Los Angeles shooting guard DJ Steward, and Nembhard capitalized at the other end with a 3-pointer to give Dallas its 87-85 lead over the Lakers.

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Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) drives the ball against Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) during the first half of an NBA summer league basketball game Thursday, July 10, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker)

Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg all business as he makes his professional debut at NBA Summer League

July 10, 2025

Cooper Flagg made his professional debut Thursday night in the NBA Summer League and celebrated an 87-85 win over Bronny James and the Los Angeles Lakers. Flagg finished with 10 points on 5-for-21 shooting, including 0 for 5 from 3-point range. He also had six rebounds, four assists, three steals and one block. Though Flagg struggled at times to find his groove, there were flashes as to why he was chosen No. 1 overall last month, doing plenty of little things that helped the Mavericks seal the win, including a key block. Flagg swatted DJ Steward’s attempt with 1:10 left in the game, and Ryan Nembhard made a 3-pointer at the other end to give Dallas the 87-85 lead.

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New York Yankees' Anthony Volpe (11) slides into home base during the 10th inning of a baseball game against the Seattle Mariners, Thursday, July 10, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Yankees rally past Mariners 6-5 in 10 innings after going hitless against Bryan Woo until the 8th

July 10, 2025

Anthony Volpe scored the winning run with an acrobatic slide on Aaron Judge’s shallow sacrifice fly in the 10th inning, and the New York Yankees rallied past Seattle 6-5 after Mariners pitcher Bryan Woo took a no-hitter into the eighth. Jazz Chisholm Jr. singled leading off the eighth for New York’s first hit. Woo quickly allowed another single and was lifted after Austin Wells’ sacrifice fly shaved Seattle’s lead to 5-1. Pinch-hitter Giancarlo Stanton made it 5-3 with a two-run homer off Matt Brash, and the Yankees were down to their final strike multiple times before tying it on Wells’ two-run single off All-Star closer Andrés Muñoz in the ninth.

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Seattle Mariners pitcher Andrés Muñoz (75) throws during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the New York Yankees, Thursday, July 10, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh: All-Star closer Andrés Muñoz was tipping pitches against Yankees

July 10, 2025

Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh thinks All-Star closer Andrés Muñoz was tipping pitches when he squandered a two-run lead in the ninth inning against the New York Yankees. Muñoz was handed his sixth blown save in 27 opportunities this season after starter Bryan Woo held the Yankees hitless into the eighth. With the Mariners holding a 5-3 lead, Muñoz entered in the ninth and loaded the bases on a pair of singles and a two-out walk. Standing at second base while Austin Wells batted, Cody Bellinger waved his arms when Muñoz threw his slider. Wells worked the count full and lined a fastball into right field for a two-run single that tied it. New York then scored in the 10th to win 6-5.

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Seattle Mariners pitcher Bryan Woo (22) throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the New York Yankees, Thursday, July 10, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Mariners pitcher Bryan Woo loses no-hit bid in 8th inning at Yankee Stadium

July 10, 2025

Seattle Mariners pitcher Bryan Woo has lost his no-hit bid against the New York Yankees when Jazz Chisholm Jr. singled to right field leading off the eighth inning. Ben Rice followed with another clean single that put runners at the corners, and Woo was removed after Austin Wells’ sacrifice fly trimmed Seattle’s lead to 5-1. Chisholm singled through the right side on a 1-2 changeup. He and Woo, who will be teammates on the American League All-Star squad next week, patted each other on the rear end near first base. Woo opened the game by walking Jasson Domínguez and Trent Grisham, then retired 20 straight batters. Following the walks, Woo struck out Aaron Judge and retired Chisholm on a double play.

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Athletics' Brent Rooker hits a solo home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Tampa Bay Rays, Wednesday, July 2, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)

Athletics’ Brent Rooker and Yankees’ Jazz Chisholm Jr. join Home Run Derby lineup

July 10, 2025

Brent Rooker and Jazz Chisholm Jr. have joined the lineup for Monday night’s All-Star Home Run Derby in Atlanta. Rooker, representing the Athletics, says he won’t change his usual approach at the plate. This marks the first time an A’s player has participated since 2021. Rooker has hit 58 home runs since 2024, third among American League players. His former youth coach, Joe Caruso, will pitch to him during the event. Chisholm, a Yankees infielder, is making his Derby debut. Other participants include Ronald Acuña Jr., Byron Buxton, Junior Caminero, Oneil Cruz, Cal Raleigh and James Wood.

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FILE - Katie Taylor, left, and Amanda Serrano pose for photos during a news conference promoting their upcoming boxing bout, May 16, 2024, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde, File)

Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano meet for third time in their historic women’s boxing rivalry

July 10, 2025

Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano have fought twice, two of the best and most significant events in women’s boxing history. They return to Madison Square Garden, site of their first bout, on Friday night to headline the first all-women’s card at the arena. It’s the expected conclusion to a rivalry that has elevated their sport, created opportunities that never previously existed for female fighters, and so far has delivered everything except a Serrano victory. Taylor will defend her 140-pound titles against Serrano, who has won titles in seven weight classes. The 2012 Olympic gold medalist from Ireland won close decisions in both previous fights.

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Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Bryan Baker (43) leaves the mound in a pitching substitution after giving up four runs during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets, Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Orioles trade reliever Bryan Baker to Rays for 37th pick in draft

July 10, 2025

The Baltimore Orioles have traded right-handed reliever Bryan Baker to AL East rival Tampa Bay in exchange for the 37th overall pick in the 2025 MLB amateur draft, a sign that one of baseball’s most disappointing clubs could be sellers at the upcoming trade deadline. Orioles GM Mike Elias wouldn’t completely commit to that idea speaking to media before Thursday’s doubleheader against the New Yor Mets, citing the 2024 Detroit Tigers, who traded players off their major league roster, then surged into a playoff spot. But he acknowledged the possibility on a day that began with last-place Baltimore (40-50) sitting 12 1/2 games behind division-leading Toronto and seven out of the final AL wild card spot.

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Minnesota Twins' Byron Buxton (25) is looked at by manager Rocco Baldelli (5), left, and a trainer after being hit by a pitch during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Twins keep sore Buxton out of starting lineup with bruised hand, but expect All-Star to be fine

July 10, 2025

The Minnesota Twins have kept All-Star center fielder Byron Buxton out of Thursday’s starting lineup due to a bruised left hand. Manager Rocco Baldelli says Buxton could still play as a pinch-hitter, depending on how his hand feels. Buxton was hit by a pitch during Wednesday’s game against the Chicago Cubs but stayed in briefly before being removed. X-rays showed no fractures. Baldelli expects him to return soon. Buxton’s participation in next week’s All-Star Game and Home Run Derby appears unaffected. Buxton has 20 home runs this season and ranks among league leaders in several categories.

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New York Yankees second base DJ LeMahieu (26) grounds out Athletics' Max Muncy (10) during the sixth inning of a baseball game, Saturday, June 28, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Angelina Katsanis)

Yankees cut 2-time batting champ DJ LeMahieu with nearly $22 million left on contract

July 10, 2025

DJ LeMahieu has been cut by the New York Yankees with almost $22 million remaining on his contract, one day after the two-time batting champion got demoted to the bench. LeMahieu, who turns 37 on Sunday, was designated for assignment and fellow infielder Jorbit Vivas was recalled from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The Yankees then released LeMahieu on Thursday. A three-time All-Star, LeMahieu was batting .266 with two homers, 12 RBIs and a .674 OPS. He made his season debut May 13 after recovering from a left calf strain.

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FILE - UFC fighter Ben Askren waits for the start of a middleweight mixed martial arts bout between David Branch and Jared Cannonier at UFC 230, in New York, Nov. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File)

Former Olympic wrestler and MMA star Ben Askren recovering from double lung transplant

July 10, 2025

Olympic wrestler and former UFC fighter Ben Askren has undergone a double lung transplant after battling severe pneumonia. In a social media post Wednesday, Askren shared that he is now recovering. He revealed he remembers little from a 45-day ordeal between late May and early July, during which he was on a ventilator and his heart stopped four times. Askren lost 50 pounds during the experience but expressed gratitude for the love and support he received. Known for his amateur wrestling and MMA career, Askren retired in 2019 and briefly returned for a boxing match in 2021.

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New York Yankees pitcher Cam Schlittler (31) throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Seattle Mariners, Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Cam Schlittler brings heat and hope to Yankees in winning MLB debut

July 9, 2025

One game into his major league career, Cam Schlittler is the hardest-throwing member of the New York Yankees’ rotation. Schlittler used his 100 mph fastball to shut down Cal Raleigh and the Seattle Mariners during an eye-opening debut Wednesday night, pitching the Yankees to a 9-6 victory before a throng of friends and family members in the crowd. One of the team’s top-rated prospects, the 6-foot-6 Schlittler struck out seven over 5 1/3 innings to earn the win. He threw New York’s seven fastest pitches this season and his average fastball velocity of 97.9 mph was the highest for a Yankees pitcher this year. But it was his poise and improved secondary pitches that really impressed manager Aaron Boone.

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New York Yankees' Jazz Chisholm Jr. reacts after hitting a home run during the third inning of a baseball game against the Seattle Mariners, Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Chisholm homers twice and Schlittler wins MLB debut as Yankees top Mariners 9-6

July 9, 2025

Jazz Chisholm Jr. homered twice and drove in four runs, and Cam Schlittler won his impressive major league debut as the New York Yankees beat the Seattle Mariners 9-6. Jasson Domínguez had three hits, including an RBI single, and Aaron Judge added a two-run double to help the Yankees overcome four Seattle homers. New York has won three straight following its second six-game losing streak since mid-June. One of the team’s top-rated prospects, Schlittler was called up from the minors to start in place of injured Clarke Schmidt. The 24-year-old right-hander froze big league home run leader Cal Raleigh with a 100 mph fastball for his first strikeout and was charged with three runs on four hits in 5 1/3 innings. He walked two and struck out seven.

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Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring in the first half of an MLS soccer match against the New England Revolution, Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

Lionel Messi has MLS-record 4th straight multi-goal game as Inter Miami beats New England 2-1

July 9, 2025

Lionel Messi became the first player in Major League Soccer history with four consecutive multi-goal games, scoring twice to lead Inter Miami past the New England Revolution 2-1. Miami has won four straight and is unbeaten in its last five. Defender Tanner Beason misplayed a header and Messi capitalized, scoring on a half-volley to open the scoring in the 27th minute. Messi made it 2-0 in the 38th. Messi has at least one goal in five straight games. He has 14 goals and seven assists in 15 regular-season matches. Nashville’s Sam Surridge with 16 is the only player with more MLS goals than Messi.

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FILE - Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half of an NBA basketball game, April 9, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri, File)

Suns sign Devin Booker to 2-year, $145 million max extension through 2029-30, AP sources say

July 9, 2025

Two people with knowledge of the contract say the Phoenix Suns have signed star guard Devin Booker to a two-year, $145 max contract extension. The 28-year-old Booker has been one of the NBA’s best shooting guards, earning four All-Star appearances in 10 NBA seasons. The two-time all-NBA player has averaged 24.4 points since Phoenix took him out of Kentucky with the 13th overall pick of the 2015 draft. Booker averaged 25.6 points, 7.1 assists and 4.1 rebounds while shooting 46% from the floor during a disappointing 2024-25 season for the Suns. Phoenix has revamped its front office and roster since a disappointing 2024-25 season, including a seven-team trade that sent Kevin Durant to Houston.

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FILE - Frank Layden, former president of the Utah Jazz, is introduced during a 20-year reunion ceremony for the team that reached the 1997 NBA Finals, at halftime of the Jazz's basketball game against the New York Knicks on March 22, 2017, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, Pool, File)

Former Jazz coach and GM Frank Layden dies at 93

July 9, 2025

Frank Layden, the sharp-witted former coach who led the Utah Jazz to the playoffs for the first time, has died. He was 93.  Known for his humor and sideline antics, Layden coached the Jazz from 1981-89 and had 277 wins, third-most in franchise history. He’s the only coach in Jazz history to be named NBA coach of the year, earning the honor in 1984, when he also was honored as executive of the year. Born in Brooklyn in 1932, Layden began his coaching career in the high school ranks before moving on to coach at his alma mater, Niagara University. He made the jump to the NBA in 1976 on Hubie Brown’s Atlanta staff and became the New Orleans Jazz’s general manager in 1979.

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