Jun 7, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes (30) in the dugout during the game against the Atlanta Braves during the third inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images | Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images The Pittsburgh Pirates have officially f beloellw .500 for the first time since March 1, and althought they won last night to get back to even, they are in the middle of a bad slump of games. A lot of chatter has been about how pitcher Paul Skenes isn’t playing as well and may already be slipping as a pro. While the season has been far from perfect for Skenes, there are way bigger problems for the Pirates and their fans to worry about.First let’s get the obvious out of the way first; Skenes is having a rougher start to this season than in year’s past. At one point in Skenes’ career, it would be weird to even associate the number “2” with the pitcher and his ERA, as he posted below 2.00 in each of his first two seasons. The 24-year-old righty currently has a 2.85 ERA with a 6-6 record. He’s also already given up eight home runs this season, and at times has racked up his pitch count, spending long times on the mound fighting in an at-bat. The sheer dominance that Skenes has had over opponents previously has seemed to waver this year, and for the first time in the majors he has looked human more often than not.Even given his “shortcomings” Skenes is far from being “washed” or a liability in the Pirates’ rotation. The fact of the matter is that most big league pitchers would be thrilled to be having the season that Skenes is having. Despite the shaky start to 2026, Skenes still has the fifth lowest WHIP in baseball while also holding claim to the sixth lowest H/AB in baseball and the fourth most strikeouts with 99. Paul Skenes has given up two home runs today which ties his season high pic.twitter.com/ABxxu79Zvt— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) June 14, 2026The Pirates as a whole are flawed, with a lot of the microscope being focused on Skenes because of his All-Star status. Pittsburgh has lost six straight Skenes’ starts. In this span, Skenes has a 2.50 ERA per game, which is certainly high for the reigning National League Cy Young Award recipient. However, the Pirates lineup also has a minus-27 run differential in that time frame, with run support being hard to come by when Skenes is on the mound.In his most recent start against the Miami Marlins, Skenes struck out 10 batters, retiring nine a row and set a career high in whiffs with 23. In that contest, he gave up two runs, both of which were homers, and the Pirates’ bats couldn’t generate more than two runs in support.Manager Don Kelly spoke postgame on the struggles the team has had during this stretch of Skenes’ starts.“I think when you’re looking at it, we just haven’t been able to put a complete game together,” Kelly said. “Last year was maybe the run support. We’ve had starts throughout those six where we’ve scored runs, we’ve had starts that offense has been there and other things have happened. I don’t think we can point to one thing, and that’s consistent throughout all the starts.”The ever stoic Skenes was not bothered by the lack of success or run support postgame.“It’s baseball,” Skenes said. “I’ve dealt with it before. It’s a team sport. It’s just the nature of the game.”The fact of the matter is everyone has gotten used to one version of Skenes, which at any given time is the best pitcher in baseball. It’s hard to remember in the moment, but ever since he came into the league, Skenes has been rewriting record books and setting new incredibly high standards for an ace in the Major Leagues. Just because he’s not performing like Superman every week does not mean he’s fallen off. The image and the standard that Skenes created for himself in his first two seasons is INCREDIBLY HARD to live up to all the time. Even at his absolute worst, you’d still want him to be your number one pitcher in the rotation. Has he fallen short of expectations? Sure, but it’s undeniable that he’s still performing in the top echelon of the best big league starters.Paul Skenes strikes out the side in the 6th.10 strikeouts today.87.7 MPH slider88.2 MPH slider98.3 MPH 4-seam pic.twitter.com/ZJec40yh8K— Platinum Key (@PlatinumKey13) June 14, 2026Skenes and the Pirates are in a rough patch, there’s no doubt about that. However, Skenes is still a generational type of player for Pittsburgh, and there are way bigger problems on the team than his still very respectable 2.85 ERA. Skenes will bounce back much faster than the Pirates as a team will because that’s what the best pitchers in baseball do. The blinders are on, he’s the man in the arena and we all need to pump the brakes on talks of slipping and falling short.

England gave debuts to three players in the second Test against New Zealand which began on Wednesday, making it 30 to have been given their cap under head coach Brendon McCullum.Can you name all 30? Try our quiz and share it with your friends.The 92mph England fast bowler ready to move on from difficult debutI'll take England captaincy game-by-game - RootGet cricket news sent straight to your phone

Lionel Messi gestures after nearly scoring a goal at La Bombonera stadium on March 31, 2026, ahead of the FIFA World Cup. (Photo by Pablo Elias/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images One of the biggest sporting events on the planet is about to begin.Starting on Thursday, the FIFA World Cup gets underway in Mexico, Canada, and the United States. The World Cup begins with the group stage, as the 48 teams in the field battle it out to secure one of the 32 spots in the knockout stage.Here is the full schedule, along with television information, for the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. All times listed are Eastern. World Cup group stage schedule and scoresThursday, June 11Group A: Mexico 2, South Africa 0Group A: South Korea 2, Czechia 1Friday, June 12Group B: Canada 1, Bosnia and Herzegovina 1Group D: United States 4, Paraguay 1Saturday, June 13Group B: Switzerland 1, Qatar 1Group C: Brazil 1, Morocco 1Group C: Scotland 1, Haiti 0Sunday, June 14Group D: Australia 2, Türkiye 0Group E: Germany 7, Curaçao 1Group F: Netherlands 2, Japan 2Group E: Ivory Coast 1, Ecuador 0Group F: Sweden 5 Tunisia 1Monday, June 15Group H: Spain 0, Cabo Verde 0Group G: Belgium 1, Egypt 1Group H: Saudi Arabia 1, Uruguay 1Group G: Iran 2, New Zealand 2Tuesday, June 16Group I: France 3, Senegal 1Group I: Norway 4, Iraq 1Group J: Argentina 3, Algeria 0Wednesday, June 17Group J: Austria 3, Jordan 1Group K: Portugal vs. DR Congo, 1:00 p.m., FOXGroup L: England vs. Croatia, 4:00 p.m., FOXGroup L: Ghana vs. Panama, 7:00 p.m., FS1Group K: Uzbekistan vs. Colombia, 10:00 p.m., FS1Thursday, June 18Group A: Czechia vs. South Africa, 12:00 p.m., FOXGroup B: Switzerland vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina, 3:00 p.m, FOXGroup B: Canada vs. Qatar, 6:00 p.m., FS1Group A: Mexico vs. South Korea, 9:00 p.m., FOXFriday, June 19Group D: United States vs. Australia, 3:00 p.m., FOXGroup C: Scotland vs. Morocco, 6:00 p.m., FOXGroup C: Brazil vs. Haiti, 8:30 p.m., FOXGroup D: Türkiye vs. Paraguay, 11:00 p.m., FS1Saturday, June 20Group F: Netherlands vs. Sweden, 1:00 p.m., FOXGroup E: Germany vs. Ivory Coast, 4:00 p.m. FOXGroup E: Ecuador vs. Curaçao, 8:00 p.m., FS1Sunday, June 21Group F: Tunisia vs. Japan, 12:00 a.m., FS1Group H: Spain vs. Saudi Arabia, 12:00 p.m., FOXGroup G: Belgium vs. Iran, 3:00 p.m., FS1Group H: Uruguay vs. Cabo Verde, 6:00 p.m., FS1Group G: New Zealand vs. Egypt, 9:00 p.m., FS1Monday, June 22Group J: Argentina vs. Austria, 1:00 p.m., FOXGroup I: France vs. Iraq, 5:00 p.m., FOXGroup I: Norway vs. Senegal, 8:00 p.m, FOXGroup J: Jordan vs. Algeria, 11:00 p.m., FS1Tuesday, June 23Group K: Portugal vs. Uzbekistan, 1:00 p.m., FOXGroup L: England vs. Ghana, 4:00 p.m., FOXGroup L: Panama vs. Croatia, 7:oo p.m., FOXGroup K: Colombia vs. DR Congo, 10:00 p.m., FS1Wednesday, June 24Group B: Switzerland vs. Canada, 3:00 p.m., FOXGroup B: Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. Qatar, 3:00 p.m., FS1Group C: Morocco vs. Haiti, 6:00 p.m., FS1Group C: Scotland vs. Brazil, 6:00 p.m., FOXGroup A: South Africa vs. South Korea, 9:00 p.m., FS1Group A: Czechia vs. Mexico, 9:00 p.m., FOXThursday, June 25Group E: Curaçao vs. Ivory Coast, 4:00 p.m., FS1Group E: Ecuador vs. Germany, 4:00 p.m., FOXGroup F: Tunisia vs. Netherlands, 7:00 p.m., FOXGroup F: Japan vs. Sweden, 7:00 p.m., FS1Group D: Türkiye vs. United States, 10:00 p.m., FOXGroup D: Paraguay vs. Australia, 10:00 p.m., FS1Friday, June 26Group I: Norway vs. France, 3:00 p.m., FOXGroup I: Senegal vs. Iraq, 3:00 p.m., FS1Group H: Cabo Verde vs. Saudi Arabia, 8:00 p.m., FS1Group H: Uruguay vs. Spain, 8:00 p.m., FOXGroup G: New Zealand vs. Belgium, 11:00 p.m., FOXGroup G: Egypt vs. Iran, 11:00 p.m., FS1Saturday, June 27Group L: Panama vs. England, 5:00 p.m., FOXGroup L: Croatia vs. Ghana, 5:00 p.m., FS1Group K: Colombia vs. Portugal, 7:30 p.m., FOXGroup K: DR Congo vs. Uzbekistan, 7:30 p.m., FS1Group J: Algeria vs. Austria, 10:00 p.m., FS1Group J: Jordan vs. Argentina, 10:00 p.m., FOX

France next World Cup match: Fixture schedule, start time, draw bracket as Les Blues face Iraq originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.France head to this summer's World Cup bidding for a successful end to Didier Deschamps' time in charge.The head coach will step down after the tournament, with Zinedine Zidane widely expected to take over the position with Les Bleus that Deschamps has held since 2012. He will have a difficult job to replace his former teammate, who led France to glory at the 2018 finals in Russia and only lost the 2022 showpiece to Argentina on penalties.France undoubtedly boast one of the strongest rosters in the tournament, but their Group I campaign looks anything but straightforward. Up first are Senegal, who won the most recent Africa Cup of Nations only to see their title stripped. France then face qualifying playoff winners Iraq before facing Erling Haaland and Norway.Here is everything you need to know about France's appearance at the World Cup, including the latest results from the tournament.When is France's next match at World Cup 2026?Mbappe scored twice in France's opening win over Senegal and will hope to carry on his fine form into their next match against Iraq.The clash is set for a 5 p.m. ET kickoff on Monday, June 22 from Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia.France match schedule, results from World Cup 2026DateTime (ET)Match / ResultLocationTue, Jun. 163 p.m.Group stage: France 3-1 SenegalMetLife Stadium, East RutherfordMon, Jun. 225 p.m.Group stage: France vs. IraqLincoln Financial Field, PhiladelphiaFri, Jun. 263 p.m.Group stage: Norway vs. FranceGillette Stadium, FoxboroughBUY NOW:France tickets for FIFA World CupWorld Cup Group I tableTeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1. Norway3110041+32. France3110031+23. Senegal0101013-24. Iraq0101014-3How to watch France matches at World Cup 2026TV channel: FOX, FS1Live stream: fubo,FOX One,FOX Sports app/websiteFOX is the main English-language FIFA broadcast partner in the United States, and will have the rights to the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil.The broadcaster has announced that all 104 matches of the tournament will be televised throughout the competition. 69 matches from the competition will air on the main FOX network channel, while 35 others will be televised on FS1.For Spanish-language coverage, all 104 matches will stream live on Peacock, with 92 matches airing on Telemundo and 12 on Universo.All those channels, both English and Spanish, are available to stream in the United States on fubo, who are offering a FREE trial for new users.Every match will also stream live on FOX One and the FOX Sports app.France World Cup 2026 draw bracket for Group IThe winner of Group I will enter the knockout stage bracket on the top half, scheduled to take on a third-place qualifier from either Group C, D, F, G or H.The Group I runner-up enters the bottom half of the bracket and will meet the Group E runner-up.The third-place finisher in Group I has six potential landing spots in the bracket, but only eight groups will have a third-place qualifier for the knockout stage.Until all third-place qualifiers are known, it is impossible to predict where or when they could potentially play because there are 495 mathematical combinations of third place qualifiers.Round of 32DateTime (ET)MatchLocationSun, Jun. 283 p.m.M1: 2nd, Group A vs. 2nd, Group BSoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)Mon, Jun. 294:30 p.m.M2: 1st, Group E vs. 3rd place finisherGillette Stadium (Foxboro, MA)Mon, Jun. 299 p.m.M3: 1st, Group F vs. 2nd, Group CEstadio BBVA (Guadalupe, MEX)Mon, Jun. 291 p.m.M4: 1st, Group C vs. 2nd, Group FNRG Stadium (Houston, TX)Tue, Jun. 305 p.m.M5: 1st, Group I vs. 3rd place finisherMetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)Tue, Jun. 301 p.m.M6: 2nd, Group E vs. 2nd, Group IAT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Tue, Jun. 309 p.m.M7: 1st, Group A vs. 3rd place finisherEstadio Azteca (Mexico City, MEX)Wed, Jul. 112 p.m.M8: 1st, Group L vs. 3rd place finisherMercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)Wed, Jul. 18 p.m.M9: 1st, Group D vs. 3rd place finisherLevi's Stadium (Santa Clara, CA)Wed, Jul. 14 p.m.M10: 1st, Group G vs. 3rd place finisherLumen Field (Seattle, WA)Thu, Jul. 27 p.m.M11: 2nd, Group K vs. 2nd, Group LBMO Field (Toronto, CAN)Thu, Jul. 23 p.m.M12: 1st, Group H vs. 2nd, Group JSoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)Thu, Jul. 211 p.m.M13: 1st, Group B vs. 3rd place finisherBC Place (Vancouver, CAN)Fri, Jul. 36 p.m.M14: 1st, Group J vs. 2nd, Group HHard Rock Stadium (Miami, FL)Fri, Jul. 39:30 p.m.M15: 1st, Group K vs. 3rd place finisherArrowhead Stadium (Kansas City, MO)Fr, Jul. 32 p.m.M16: 2nd, Group D vs. 2nd, Group GAT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Round of 16DateTime (ET)MatchLocationSat, Jul. 41 p.m.M2: Winner, R32 M1 vs. Winner, R32 M3NRG Stadium (Houston, TX)Sat, Jul. 45 p.m.M1: Winner, R32 M2 vs. Winner, R32 M5Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA)Sun, Jul. 54 p.m.M3: Winner, R32 M4 vs. Winner, R32 M6MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)Sun, Jul. 58 p.m.M4: Winner, R32 M7 vs. Winner, R32 M8Estadio Azteca (Mexico City, MEX)Mon, Jul. 63 p.m.M5: Winner, R32 M11 vs. Winner, R32 M12AT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Mon, Jul. 68 p.m.M6: Winner, R32 M9 vs. Winner, R32 M10Lumen Field (Seattle, WA)Tue, Jul. 712 p.m.M7: Winner, R32 M14 vs. Winner, R32 M16Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)Tue, Jul. 74 p.m.M8: Winner, R32 M13 vs. Winner, R32 M15BC Place (Vancouver, CAN)QuarterfinalsDateTime (ET)MatchLocationThu, Jul. 94 p.m.QF1: Winner, R16 M1 vs. Winner, R16 M2Gillette Stadium (Foxboro, MA)Fri, Jul. 103 p.m.QF2: Winner, R16 M5 vs. Winner, R16 M6SoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)Sat, Jul. 115 p.m.QF3: Winner, R16 M3 vs. Winner, R16 M4Hard Rock Stadium (Miami, FL)Sat, Jul. 119 p.m.QF4: Winner, R16 M7 vs. Winner, R16 M8Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City, MO)SemifinalsDateTime (ET)MatchLocationTue, Jul. 143 p.m.SF1: Winner, QF1 vs. Winner, QF2AT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Wed, Jul. 153 p.m.SF2: Winner, QF3 vs. Winner, QF4Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)Third-place matchDateTime (ET)MatchLocationSat, Jul. 185 p.m.Loser, SF1 vs. Loser, SF2Hard Rock Stadium (Miami, FL)FinalDateTime (ET)MatchLocationSun, Jul. 193 p.m.Winner, SF1 vs. Winner, SF2MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)

Former New York Giants wide receiver Ed McCaffrey played a critical role on New York’s offense in the early 1990s despite spending just the first three seasons of his career with the team.McCaffrey was originally the Giants’ third-round selection in the 1991 NFL draft. The route runner went on to have an excellent career in the NFL after his time in New York, winning three Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers and the Denver Broncos across his 13-year career.The former Giant was asked for his thoughts on newly hired head coach John Harbaugh. McCaffrey believes New York hired the perfect candidate for the job.“I know the candle kind of burned out in Baltimore, but coach Harbaugh has been a winner his entire coaching career,” he told Kyle Odegard in a recent interview. “He’s going to be able to navigate those waters and figure out how to turn that team around. I do believe that. And I think he has a lot of talent on that roster."I do believe they have the right coach, and I do believe he will find a way to put his players in a position to have success. It’ll be Year 1, and there are always challenges in your first year with a team, but I do think they have talent on the roster and I do think he’s the right man for the job.”McCaffrey recorded 1,091 yards and seven touchdowns throughout his three seasons with the Giants. The former wide receiver appears fully confident in Harbaugh’s abilities this season, and many would agree with his assessment of the legendary head coach.Harbaugh will enter his first season as the Giants’ head coach with major expectations. The long-time Baltimore Ravens head coach has been widely regarded as one of the top coaches in football over the past decade, and he now finds himself with a plethora of young talent on both sides of the ball.McCaffrey’s thoughts on Harbaugh could prove prescient as the 2026 campaign kicks off in September.This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: 3-time Super Bowl champion: John Harbaugh is perfect hire for Giants

LUCKNOW: For Shubman Gill led Team India, who play Afghanistan in the second ODI at the Ekana Stadium here on Wednesday, this series is also an early marker on the road to the 2027 ODI World Cup. The immediate target is a series win but the larger canvas is already clear. In that context, every role and every combination will be examined closely. Beyond Gill and a few established names — fitness and form permitting — not many can take their World Cup places for granted.While the focus will remain on Rohit Sharma, who continues to make his case against age and scrutiny, one player who appears to be strengthening his World Cup credentials is KL Rahul. For a large part of his career, Rahul was viewed primarily as a toporder batter. Over the last few years, he has transformed himself into one of India’s most dependable middle-order options in ODIs. His overall numbers in the format are impressive but his record at No. 5 has been significant. He has provided stability, acceleration and most importantly, versatility.The Karnataka batter can absorb pressure when early wickets fall, rebuild an innings without panic and still find the gears required for a late surge. In a format where tempo management can decide matches, Rahul’s ability to move seamlessly between consolidation and counterattack gives India a rare cushion.His recent form has only strengthened that case. After scoring a composed century in the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, Rahul produced a sharp cameo in the first ODI in Dharamshala, finishing unbeaten on 39 off 19 balls to hasten India’s chase in a rain-shortened, 25-overs-a-side contest. 131795652“Rahul adapts to conditions and formats quickly, as he has proven in these two games,” India’s spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule said, adding, “If you send him at any number, he is somebody who will perform for you. He understands the situation. He will be an important member of the team.”Rahul handed over the wicketkeeping gloves to Ishan Kishan in the opening ODI but he remains multi-dimensional. Whether he keeps wickets or plays as a specialist batter, his presence gives India flexibility. When Virat Kohli returns to the mix, that flexibility could become even more important as India work out how to fit experience, youth and role-specific options into a balanced XI.India’s seven-wicket win in Dharamshala had several positives. Yet Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz showed, with a blistering 48-ball hundred, that the visitors have enough quality to punish any loose spells. That is why Wednesday’s game will not be treated merely as a formality.

Erling Haaland next World Cup match: Fixture schedule, start time, draw bracket as Norway face Senegal originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Norway return to the World Cup for the first time in 28 years this summer, meaning a debut on international football's biggest stage for Erling HaalandHaaland's father, Alf-Inge, played for the Scandinavian nation when they featured at the 1994 World Cup in the USA, but he was absent four years later when they claimed a famous group-stage win over eventual winners Brazil.The current generation, under Stale Solbakken and captained by Arsenal playmaker Martin Odegaard, will be backed with optimism by fans starved of World Cup participation for almost three decades.Manchester City star Haaland is central to those hopes due to his gargantuan goalscoring feats.The 25-year-old was the top scorer in the UEFA qualification section, plundering an astonishing 16 goals as he netted in every Group I match. This haul included five in one game against minnows Moldova, a hat-trick versus Israel and a brace in the 4-1 win over Italy at San Siro that rubberstamped a place at the finals.Here is everything you need to know about Haaland's World Cup, including the latest results from the tournament.When is Erling Haaland's next match at World Cup 2026?Haaland bagged twice in Norway's opening win over Iraq and will hope to continue that form into their next game against Senegal.Norway will face the African side on Monday, June 22 at 8 p.m. ET from MetLife Stadium.Norway match schedule, results from World Cup 2026DateTime (ET)Match / ResultLocationTue, Jun. 166 p.m.Group stage: Iraq 1-4 NorwayGillette Stadium, FoxboroughMon, Jun. 228 p.m.Group stage: Norway vs. SenegalMetLife Stadium, East RutherfordFri, Jun. 263 p.m.Group stage: Norway vs. FranceGillette Stadium, FoxboroughBUY NOW:Norway tickets for FIFA World CupWorld Cup Group I tableTeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1. Norway3110041+32. France3110031+23. Senegal0101013-24. Iraq0101014-3How to watch Erling Haaland at World Cup 2026TV channel: FOX, FS1Live stream: fubo,FOX One,FOX Sports app/websiteFOX is the main English-language FIFA broadcast partner in the United States, and will have the rights to the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil.The broadcaster has announced that all 104 matches of the tournament will be televised throughout the competition. 69 matches from the competition will air on the main FOX network channel, while 35 others will be televised on FS1.For Spanish-language coverage, all 104 matches will stream live on Peacock, with 92 matches airing on Telemundo and 12 on Universo.All those channels, both English and Spanish, are available to stream in the United States on fubo, who are offering a FREE trial for new users.Every match will also stream live on FOX One and the FOX Sports app.Norway World Cup 2026 draw bracket for Group IThe winner of Group I will enter the knockout stage bracket on the top half, scheduled to take on a third-place qualifier from either Group C, D, F, G or H.The Group I runner-up enters the bottom half of the bracket and will meet the Group E runner-up.The third-place finisher in Group I has six potential landing spots in the bracket, but only eight groups will have a third-place qualifier for the knockout stage.Until all third-place qualifiers are known, it is impossible to predict where or when they could potentially play because there are 495 mathematical combinations of third place qualifiers.Round of 32DateTime (ET)MatchLocationSun, Jun. 283 p.m.M1: 2nd, Group A vs. 2nd, Group BSoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)Mon, Jun. 294:30 p.m.M2: 1st, Group E vs. 3rd place finisherGillette Stadium (Foxboro, MA)Mon, Jun. 299 p.m.M3: 1st, Group F vs. 2nd, Group CEstadio BBVA (Guadalupe, MEX)Mon, Jun. 291 p.m.M4: 1st, Group C vs. 2nd, Group FNRG Stadium (Houston, TX)Tue, Jun. 305 p.m.M5: 1st, Group I vs. 3rd place finisherMetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)Tue, Jun. 301 p.m.M6: 2nd, Group E vs. 2nd, Group IAT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Tue, Jun. 309 p.m.M7: 1st, Group A vs. 3rd place finisherEstadio Azteca (Mexico City, MEX)Wed, Jul. 112 p.m.M8: 1st, Group L vs. 3rd place finisherMercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)Wed, Jul. 18 p.m.M9: 1st, Group D vs. 3rd place finisherLevi's Stadium (Santa Clara, CA)Wed, Jul. 14 p.m.M10: 1st, Group G vs. 3rd place finisherLumen Field (Seattle, WA)Thu, Jul. 27 p.m.M11: 2nd, Group K vs. 2nd, Group LBMO Field (Toronto, CAN)Thu, Jul. 23 p.m.M12: 1st, Group H vs. 2nd, Group JSoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)Thu, Jul. 211 p.m.M13: 1st, Group B vs. 3rd place finisherBC Place (Vancouver, CAN)Fri, Jul. 36 p.m.M14: 1st, Group J vs. 2nd, Group HHard Rock Stadium (Miami, FL)Fri, Jul. 39:30 p.m.M15: 1st, Group K vs. 3rd place finisherArrowhead Stadium (Kansas City, MO)Fr, Jul. 32 p.m.M16: 2nd, Group D vs. 2nd, Group GAT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Round of 16DateTime (ET)MatchLocationSat, Jul. 41 p.m.M2: Winner, R32 M1 vs. Winner, R32 M3NRG Stadium (Houston, TX)Sat, Jul. 45 p.m.M1: Winner, R32 M2 vs. Winner, R32 M5Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA)Sun, Jul. 54 p.m.M3: Winner, R32 M4 vs. Winner, R32 M6MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)Sun, Jul. 58 p.m.M4: Winner, R32 M7 vs. Winner, R32 M8Estadio Azteca (Mexico City, MEX)Mon, Jul. 63 p.m.M5: Winner, R32 M11 vs. Winner, R32 M12AT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Mon, Jul. 68 p.m.M6: Winner, R32 M9 vs. Winner, R32 M10Lumen Field (Seattle, WA)Tue, Jul. 712 p.m.M7: Winner, R32 M14 vs. Winner, R32 M16Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)Tue, Jul. 74 p.m.M8: Winner, R32 M13 vs. Winner, R32 M15BC Place (Vancouver, CAN)QuarterfinalsDateTime (ET)MatchLocationThu, Jul. 94 p.m.QF1: Winner, R16 M1 vs. Winner, R16 M2Gillette Stadium (Foxboro, MA)Fri, Jul. 103 p.m.QF2: Winner, R16 M5 vs. Winner, R16 M6SoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)Sat, Jul. 115 p.m.QF3: Winner, R16 M3 vs. Winner, R16 M4Hard Rock Stadium (Miami, FL)Sat, Jul. 119 p.m.QF4: Winner, R16 M7 vs. Winner, R16 M8Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City, MO)SemifinalsDateTime (ET)MatchLocationTue, Jul. 143 p.m.SF1: Winner, QF1 vs. Winner, QF2AT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Wed, Jul. 153 p.m.SF2: Winner, QF3 vs. Winner, QF4Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)Third-place matchDateTime (ET)MatchLocationSat, Jul. 185 p.m.Loser, SF1 vs. Loser, SF2Hard Rock Stadium (Miami, FL)FinalDateTime (ET)MatchLocationSun, Jul. 193 p.m.Winner, SF1 vs. Winner, SF2MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)

Last week, Texas A&M coach Michael Earley made the first significant staff change of his career at the helm, firing second-year pitching coach Jason Kelley, leading to the pursuit and hiring of MLB pitching coach/coordinator Barry Enright, who has spent the last six seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Los Angeles Angels, and, most recently, the Athletics.While Enright's lack of college coaching experience, especially recruiting, looked like a major red flag, the Aggies quickly added two of the top arms in the transfer portal, as former UNLV right‑hander Jase Evangelista and Wichita State transfer RHP Johnny Nuanez are headed to College Station, while the Aggies are predicted to land Texas State transfer Wade Cooper this week.Enright's background as a developer was the primary reason Earley hired him over several current college coaches, feeling that his pro-level perspective and ability to connect with up-and-coming pitchers who need to tweak small parts of their game to reach their potential. If A&M lands Cooper, it's clear that Enright won't have issues landing transfer players.This week, former MLB manager Bo Porter, who served as the Angels' first base coach during Bo Enright's time with the organization, praised Earley's decision to bring his former coaching partner on board, feeling that the Aggies may have just hired one of the "best pitching coaches in the country" during his interview with TexAgs."I commend Texas A&M for the hire," Porter stated to TexAgs. "When you look at Barry Enright's career, from the player to coach transitioning from the professional ranks to Texas A&M. I believe Texas A&M just hired one of the best pitching coaches in the country."Texas A&M will look to finish out the summer on a strong note, and after landing the No. 1-ranked portal player in former Clemson catcher Nate Savoie, the Aggies are on a roll.Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Former MLB manager Bo Porter praises Texas A&M hiring Barry Enright

McDowell has been absent from majors for six years [Getty Images]There was a time when Graeme McDowell did not need to fret much about qualifying for major championships. Between 2008 and 2016, he made 34 consecutive appearances on golf's biggest stages, a run highlighted by a memorable 2010 US Open triumph at Pebble Beach.As a former world number four and four-time Ryder Cup player, McDowell became accustomed to contending at the highest level, but this week's US Open at Shinnecock Hills marks the 46-year-old's first major appearance in six years. While understandably thrilled to be back at the championship that gave him his greatest day, he feels this week is as much about his nine-year-old son Wills. "I wasn't sure I was ever going to get to show him me out here playing in it with the sands of time continuing to deplete," admitted Northern Ireland's McDowell."There's a large appreciation for me being here this week at a major. At a point of my career, these were automatic and when they get taken away from you, you realise how much you miss them and appreciate the opportunity to be on golf's biggest stages."McIlroy calls for US Open set-up 'caution'Will fearsome Shinnecock bring MacIntyre major redemption?Why Shinnecock may not offer the US Open test it has in the pastMcDowell's newfound appreciation for the major arena will likely be tested this week at Shinnecock. Arguably the toughest course on a US Open rota stocked with unforgiving tracks, McDowell joined fellow countryman Rory McIlroy in missing the cut at the iconic Long Island venue in 2018. With strong gusts forecast this week, McDowell predicts another severe examination as he bids to make the cut at a major for the first time since the 2019 Open Championship in his hometown at Royal Portrush."You must drive it well. The fairways are generous but if you miss them, you're in trouble," explained LIV Golf's McDowell, who progressed from a 36-hole qualifier in Dallas last month to secure his Shinnecock spot. "The greens, you have to be very disciplined with some and some will give you chances, so you have to know where to miss and when you do miss, you have to be creative."The bunkers are interesting with a lot of stones and shells in them, but there is a little bit of everything in this gold course that will test the patience and every department of the skill-set."'They are keeping the course a bit slower'McDowell's father Ken (right) was at Pebble Beach in 2010 to watch his son become a major champion on Father's Day [Getty Images]McDowell's last win came at the 2020 Saudi International and his best finish on LIV was tied second in Virginia last year. While he admits "pretty much everything" would need to go right for him to contend at Shinnecock, he believes the course "suits me". "I'm going to have to weather some storms at some point and whomever wins is going to have to go through a period where they have to hang in, take their medicine and get out of there with a bogey and just run," he added."Right now it's quite fair, not as fast as it was in 2018, but I think by design they are keeping it a little bit slower. "Thursday's weather forecast is very windy and they are worried about that, but right now it's slower and we'll see how that progresses over the weekend."McDowell begins his US Open challenge at 12:19 BST on Thursday. McIlroy among early starters in US Open round one

Duhan van der Merwe and Elliot Dee played in the 2023 Rugby World Cup [Getty Images]Scotland wing Duhan van der Merwe and Wales hooker Elliot Dee will start for the Barbarians in Saturday's fixture against South Africa (14:00 BST).Van der Merwe features in the game against the Springboks before linking up with Gregor Townsend's squad for the Nations Championship.Dragons hooker Dee, who has won 56 caps, missed out on selection in Steve Tandy's squad for the summer.The pair are in a Baa-Baas side that is captained by New Zealand scrum-half TJ Perenara and includes Argentina fly-half Tomas Albornoz.Edinburgh's D'Arcy Rae and Liam McConnell, who are also in Scotland's summer squad, feature along with Munster centre Alex Nakivell.Wales prop Assiratti ruled out of summer seriesCallender back as Wales call up new facesAir miles, altitude & Springboks - Scotland's arduous summerBarbarians men face the Springboks and then take on Wales at Twickenham on Saturday, 27 June (14:00 BST) in a double-header with a women's fixture (17:00 BST).South Africa are tuning up for the Nations Championship and are without their Bulls contingent because of Friday's United Rugby Championship (URC) Grand Final at Leinster (19:30 BST).Rassie Erasmus will take the opportunity to look at several prospects in a double-header at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, with South Africa A hosting Zimbabwe in the first fixture.The games are being played in Gqeberha which became the new name for the city previously known as Port Elizabeth.How they line upSouth Africa: Fassi; Kolbe, Kriel, Esterhuizen, van der Merwe; Horn, Williams; Nche, Venter, Sadie, Norton, Mostert, Kolisi (capt), du Toit, Wiese.Replacements: Kotze, Mchunu, Porthen, Dixon, de Villiers, Roos, de Klerk, MoyoBarbarians: Gellant; Kellaway, Vakatawa, Nankivell, D van der Merwe; Albornoz, Perenara (capt); Vivas, Dee, Rae, Molina, Moon, Petti, Bosher, Fai'ilagi.Replacements: Oviedo, Kebble, Delgado, Rodda, McConnell, Arata, Plummer, Samusamuvodre.

The 2025-26 NHL season is over with the Carolina Hurricanes defeating the Vegas Golden Knights for the Stanley Cup championship.Now, general managers are focusing on getting their teams in shape for next season.First up is the NHL draft on June 26-27 in Buffalo, where the Toronto Maple Leafs are on the clock with the No. 1 overall pick after winning the draft lottery.Then comes free agency, which opens on July 1.This year's once-spectacular crop of free agents has been whittled down with Connor McDavid, Kirill Kaprizov, Jack Eichel, Artemi Panarin, Adrian Kempe, Kyle Connor, Evgeni Malkin and others signing extensions.But there are intriguing names left on the board. Here's what to know about NHL free agency:When does NHL free agency open?The free agent market opens at noon ET on July 1.Who are the top NHL unrestricted free agents?10. Anders Lee, New York IslandersHe has been the Islanders' captain since 2018 and is good for 20-plus goals, though he had 19 in 2025-26. Current cap hit: $7 million.9. Mason Marchment, Columbus Blue JacketsHe struggled with the Seattle Kraken after his offseason trade, but his trade to Columbus revived his season with 32 points in 39 games. He's also an agitator. Current cap hit: $4.5 million.8. Anthony Mantha, Pittsburgh PenguinsHe's the third-highest-scoring player on the free agent list with 64 points after he signed a one-year deal with Pittsburgh. Will a general manager be tempted to think he can do that again or look at his subpar production before that? Current cap hit: $2.5 million.7. Viktor Arvidsson, Boston BruinsThe forward bounced back from a couple subpar seasons and had 25 goals and 54 points after being traded to Boston. Current cap hit: $4 million.6. Sergei Bobrovsky, Florida PanthersThe goalie won back-to-back Stanley Cup titles and two Vezina Trophies. He'll be 38 next season. Current cap hit: $10 million.5. Alex Ovechkin, Washington CapitalsThe NHL's all-time leading goal scorer is expected to either re-sign with the Capitals or retire. Otherwise, he'd be higher on the list. He scored 32 goals at age 40. Current cap hit: $9.5 million.4. John Carlson, Anaheim DucksCarlson, the Capitals' all-time leader in scoring among defensemen, was traded to the Ducks in a shocker. He totaled 60 points in 71 games. Current cap hit: $8 million.3. Rasmus Andersson, Vegas Golden KnightsThe defenseman was traded to the Golden Knights this season by the Flames. He can provide offense with one 50-point season and others topping 40 points, including 47 points in 2025-26. He had an average playoffs. Current cap hit: $4.55 million.2. Darren Raddysh, Tampa Bay LightningThe defenseman had a breakout season with 22 goals and 70 points and filled in well while Victor Hedman was out with injuries and personal leave. His top season before that was 37 points. Current cap hit: $975,000.1. Alex Tuch, Buffalo SabresThe forward can score (two 36-goal seasons) and also kills penalties. He had 33 goals this season as the Sabres ended a 14-season playoff drought. After scoring four goals in the first round, he was held without a point in the second round as the Sabres lost in seven games. Current cap hit: $4.75 million.Others to watch: Patrick Kane, Frederik Andersen, Mats Zuccarello, Brent Burns, Bobby McMann.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NHL free agency opening date and top free agents

The New York Knicks' championship run captured the attention of sports fans throughout the city. Count New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn among those who were watching closely. Speaking with reporters during mandatory minicamp, Glenn opened his remarks with a simple message."Go Knicks." From there, the Jets' head coach explained what impressed him most about the franchise's march to its first NBA championship in more than five decades. It wasn't necessarily the star power. It wasn't really the highlights. Sure, he enjoyed the finals result as most New York sports fans did, but he focused on something more specific, something he calls "competitive stamina."Glenn spoke about how the Knicks repeatedly found themselves trailing during their playoff run. Yet time and again, they worked their way back into games before eventually securing four victories in a five-game championship series.For Glenn, that resilience stood out. The Knicks' championship celebration may have taken place on a basketball court, but Glenn believes the underlying lesson applies to football as well.Because of NFL offseason rules, teams are restricted in the amount of contact they can incorporate during organized team activities and minicamp practices. That makes it difficult to fully simulate the physical and mental challenges players will face once the regular season arrives.Glenn suggested that will change soon. When training camp opens, the Jets are expected to increase the intensity as coaches look to establish the standards and expectations that will define the season ahead. Creating competitive stamina will become a major point of emphasis.The Knicks provided a recent example of what that looks like at the highest level. For Glenn, their championship run was about more than basketball. It was a reminder that the teams capable of overcoming adversity are often the ones still standing at the end. As the Jets continue laying the foundation for a new era, that is a lesson worth remembering.Jets Wire will continue to provide updates throughout the 2026 offseason. This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets' Aaron Glenn compliments Knicks following their NBA title win

[PA Media]After scoring the goal against Haiti which gave Scotland their first World Cup win since 1990, John McGinn says the squad are not getting ahead of themselves as they meet Morocco on Friday.The Aston Villa midfielder says the hurt of underperforming at Euro 2024 still hurts the squad, and their focus is on not repeating those performances in Garmany.Scotland are aiming to reach the knockout stages at a major finals for the first time."There is a business feel in the camp," McGinn said."We were gutted after Germany [Euro 2024]. I know the fans had a great experience, just being back at a major tournament with fans."But we left with an emptiness and feeling of could we have done x, y or z differently."What we did now by winning the [qualifying] group was we had time to prepare properly and in the best possible way."We've left no stone unturned and the staff have been first class. The players are focussed on doing the job in hand."If we do achieve something special we will celebrate it, but until that is achieved we will purely be on business here."

Mariners' Dominic Canzone trade worked out better than expected originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The trade doesn't go down as a loss for the Arizona Diamondbacks by any means.But one of the reasons the Seattle Mariners have one of the deepest lineups in baseball is that they got Dominic Canzone in a deal with the Diamondbacks a few years ago.Canzone wasn't a well-known commodity at the time, but Seattle sure is reaping the benefits now.At the 2023 trade deadline, Seattle traded reliever Paul Sewald to Arizona for Josh Rojas, Ryan Bliss and Canzone."Almost every contender is on the hunt for bullpen help at the Deadline, and the D-backs found their man in the veteran Sewald, who was fabulous in the ninth inning for Arizona on its journey to the National League pennant," MLB.com's Brian Murphy wrote in a new article Wednesday in which he revisits some past trades.MORE: PCA finds his way to a historic cycleRojas and Bliss didn't amount for much for Seattle.Canzone, though, is a true slugger."The lefty hitter has terrorized right-handed pitchers, slashing .301/.351/.552 in 366 plate appearances against them since the start of 2025," Murphy writes.MORE: 1 year later, new Rafael Devers trade rumors have arrivedSeattle spends some time platooning Canzone, but that's no big deal. If he keeps hitting while when he gets his chances, the Mariners will keep reaping the rewards of the Sewald trade."This year, Canzone, whose Baseball Savant page is bathed in red, has 10 homers in 181 PAs for the first-place Mariners," Murphy writes. "His 157 wRC+ ranks 10th among all players with at least 150 PAs."Maybe the pedigree of Canzone didn't quite suggest this level of hitter, but there's no faking the way that he's hitting right now.More MLB news:White Sox are on an astounding stretch at homeA 'gentlemanly' baserunning move confused the umpires, and everyone elsePirates' Paul Skenes is in a bizarre stretchOutfielder retires from baseball to go play college footballDodgers have a very simple reason to trade for Tarik Skubal

The Indianapolis Colts will enter the 2026 season as one of the higher-spending teams on the defensive side of the ball. But how much has GM Chris Ballard invested in the offense?The Colts handed out two big contracts this offseason to quarterback Daniel Jones and wide receiver Alec Pierce; however, their salary cap hits -- which is what these rankings are based on -- don't break the bank in Year 1.So the Colts' total salary cap investment on the offense is right around the middle of the pack.According to Over the Cap, the Colts have $139.047 million in cap space allocated to the offense. Compared to the rest of the NFL, this ranks 21st. Leading the way are the LA Rams, who have $201.588 million in cap space invested on offense.Colts top five highest salary cap hits on offense in 2026LG Quenton Nelson: $24.2MQB Daniel Jones: $19.18MRB Jonathan Taylor: $15.56MQB Anthony Richardson: $10.81MLT Bernhard Raimann: $9.26MOf the Colts' 10 largest salary cap hits on the team in 2026, five belong to players on offense. Nelson's cap hit is the second-largest on the team, behind only DeForest Buckner.Helping to balance out these cap costs is that the Colts have several key contributors who are playing this season on rookie deals. This includes Josh Downs, Tyler Warren, Tanor Bortolini, Matt Goncalves, and Jalen Travis.This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts in bottom half of NFL in salary cap spending on offense in 2026

The Knicks parade is almost here - and you have the chance to attend the City Hall ceremony honoring the team.Last night, Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that a lottery would be opened for just a few hours, and New Yorkers could enter to win tickets for the event.Here's how to enter. Knicks ceremony detailsMamdani announced Tuesday night that 600 tickets would be released for the Knicks ceremony, taking place right after the ticker-tape parade.The ceremony will begin at 12 p.m. in City Hall Plaza, where the team is expected to receive keys to the city. Musical performances and speeches will take place, too. “From packed watch parties in our parks to joyous celebrations that spilled out onto our streets, this championship belongs to New York City,” Mamdani said in a release. “We’re making these tickets free and accessible – so working-class people have a chance to be part of this historic moment and celebrate the team that brought a championship home."How to win Knicks ceremony ticketsA short deadline was given to those who want to put their name in for tickets. New Yorkers can apply for the lottery atKnicks.com/CeremonySweeps, and submissions will be closed on Wednesday, June 17 at 11 a.m. View this post on InstagramSubmissions will be randomly selected, and if chosen, the winner will receive two tickets to the ceremony.Winners are expected to be notified the same day, June 17, and tickets will be transferred to the Ticketmaster account under the same email used in the submission, the website says. They will not be able to be transferred. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How to win tickets to the Knicks ceremony at City Hall

OMAHA, NE — As Oklahoma baseball coach Skip Johnson emerged from the dugout after one of the biggest wins of his career, he was greeted by two familiar faces.Men’s basketball coach Porter Moser and football coach Brent Venables waited in the tunnel, offering handshakes and pats on the back after the Sooners’ 4-3 victory over Georgia on Monday night.They weren’t the only ones who made the trip.Athletic director Roger Denny, football general manager Jim Nagy, women’s basketball coach Jennie Baranczyk and OU legends Bob Stoops and Barry Switzer were all in attendance at Charles Schwab Field as the Sooners moved within one win of the College World Series championship series.For a program that has long preached connection across sports, dating back to former athletic director Joe Castiglione’s tenure with Stoops and former basketball coaches Sherri Coale and Kelvin Sampson, OU baseball’s most important game in years became a showcase of it.REQUIRED READING: For OU baseball's Xander Mercurius and his family, CWS gem vs Georgia was 'surreal'“This is what’s so fun about the atmosphere at OU, the camaraderie amongst the staff and coaches,” Moser told The Oklahoman. “To support one of the coaches going through a stage like this of the College World Series, it’s so easy. It’s so fun. It’s part of what the OU culture is — working with the administration and coaches.”The group watched OU ride a sensational outing from right-hander Xander Mercurius and an offense that continues to surge.Johnson, who has made relationships the foundation of his program since arriving in 2017, almost got emotional discussing the support surrounding his team as its postseason run proceeded.To have the support of his fellow coaches reaffirms everything he knows OU to be about.“I'm thankful for our coaches, what they've done,” Johnson said. “I'm thankful for our administration. I'm thankful for all those coaches being there. “When I got the job, after a year or two I was here, I felt it was a family-owned business. That's what being an Oklahoma Sooner is.”More: OU baseball prediction for College World Series semifinal vs GeorgiaRIGHT NOW 🗣️ @CoachJohnsonOU x @CoachVenablespic.twitter.com/TlQACezhgq— Oklahoma Baseball (@OU_Baseball) June 16, 2026Brent Venables fires up OU baseball team: 'You’re like America’s team'The support carried into the locker room. When Johnson addressed his players after the win, he surprised them with a guest speaker: Venables.Shortstop Jaxon Willits joked afterward that the football coach had him ready to put on shoulder pads and play linebacker.“You’re like America’s team right now,” Venables told the group. “You’re inspiring people by how you do what you do. You know it when you see it and you know it when you don’t. You guys are at the freaking doorway right now.”Johnson has become one of the most respected figures in OU’s athletic department, a coach whose office conversations can drift seamlessly from recruiting to deer hunting to the latest fishing trip.His peers appreciate more than just his success on the field.“Skip gets it,” Moser said. “We co-recruited a kid last year, from the jump he’s just been one of those guys who’s a ball coach. He gets your journey as a coach, but he also incorporates the fun side of coaching. He brings balance to your life as a coach and I think that’s why Skip is so well liked.”More: Why OU baseball is turning to another freshman starting pitcher in College World SeriesFor Moser, the trip carried added significance. He returned to the city where he played at Creighton and spent summers working at the College World Series as a student.Watching OU’s run, he couldn’t help but notice similarities to his own team.The Sooners’ men’s basketball team lost nine straight games during the heart of SEC play before rallying late and narrowly missing the NCAA Tournament. OU baseball limped into the postseason after losing its final four regular-season series, only to catch fire when it mattered most.Now, the Sooners are playing as well as anyone left here.Whether their stay lasts two more games or several more days, OU knows the support system that followed the team north won’t be going anywhere.“It just shows the support that OU has,” Mercurius said. “We're a family. We stick to that as a team, we stick to it as a program and we stick to it as a school. OU is a great school, and all of our sports stick together.”Colton Sulley covers the Oklahoma Sooners for The Oklahoman. Have a story idea for Colton? He can be reached at csulley@oklahoman.com or on X/Twitter at @colton_sulley. Support Colton's work and that of other Oklahoman journalists by purchasing adigital subscription today at subscribe.oklahoman.com.This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OU baseball gaining support of Sooners coaches at College World Series

Lakers Predicted to Pull Off 'Bold' Sign-and-Trade Involving LeBron James, Bronny James, Deandre AytonAs LeBron James seeks to end his storied career on a high note, Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus outlined a viable, albeit “complicated,” sign-and-trade deal that would allow the Los Angeles Lakers star to orchestrate his third stint with his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers.The seasoned writer envisions the blockbuster move giving Cleveland a better chance to get over the hump in the Eastern Conference while also saving money. Meanwhile, the Lakers would take a “bold” step toward retooling around superstar guard Luka Dončić.Lakers-Cavaliers LeBron James Sign-and-Trade Proposal Could Be Win-Win for Both SidesLA and Cleveland enjoyed fruitful 2025-26 regular seasons, winning 53 and 52 games, respectively. However, both title hopefuls received stark wake-up calls in the playoffs.Despite James’ sustained Year 23 greatness, the injury-plagued Lakers, playing without Dončić (hamstring), were swept 4-0 by the league-best Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals. On the other side of the bracket, the Cavaliers got trounced 4-0 by the eventual NBA champions, the New York Knicks, in the East finals after squandering a 22-point fourth-quarter lead in Game 1.With both teams searching for answers, Pincus believes they could capitalize on James’ impending free agency to successfully reshuffle their decks for the 2026-27 campaign. In his article titled “The LeBron James Sign-and-Trade That Would Change Everything This NBA Offseason,” the analyst proposed the following scenario.Cavaliers Receive: LeBron James, Bronny James, Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, Dalton Knecht, $28 million trade exceptionLakers Receive: Jarrett Allen, Dennis Schröder, Dean Wade, Sam MerrillPincus reasoned that such a shake-up would increase Cleveland’s chances of maximizing its title window with backcourt stars Donovan Mitchell and James Harden, while allowing it to cut costs.“The team needs to improve, especially with Donovan Mitchell eligible for an extension this summer. At its core, the Cavaliers must believe they’ve hit a wall with Evan Mobley/Jarrett Allen pairing and are highly motivated to bring James home to finish his career,” Pincus wrote.“Mobley slides over to his more natural position at center with James at power forward. Cleveland also reduces its payroll to avoid additional second-apron penalties, while bringing on one of the NBA’s all-time greatest players and postseason performers.”Additionally, the Cavaliers would be able to add valuable depth, including James’ son, Bronny.“Ayton, who opts into the second year of his deal at $8.1 million with the Lakers in this scenario, can push Strus to the bench if and when the Cavs want bigger lineups,” Pincus projected.“Cleveland takes on depth from the Lakers in LaRavia and Knecht, along with James’ son, Bronny James, who played brief but legitimate playoff minutes for Los Angeles in the first round against the Houston Rockets.”MORE:‘It Would Have Been Very Good’ — Lakers Star Luka Dončić Reflects on What Could’ve Been With Jalen Brunson in DallasThat said, Pincus noted that such a franchise-altering move would hinge on James and Wade agreeing to sign-and-trade contracts, and Ayton opting into his player option for next season.On the flip side, the mammoth deal would offer LA a chance to make a forward-thinking pivot to build around Dončić’s elite playmaking with outside shooting and a bona fide lob threat.“From a basketball perspective, it’s inevitable. The Lakers must prioritize Dončić’s prime, as he’s one of the most talented scorers in the NBA. James, at his age, isn’t the franchise’s future. Instead, the team chooses not to go under the salary cap this summer, as many expect,” Pincus predicted.“Instead, James yields four rotation players, including a starting center in Allen, a veteran point guard in his third stint in LA in Schröder, a shooter in Merrill, and a versatile defender in Wade.”While Pincus dubbed it a “bold move for the Lakers” to deliberately move on from arguably the league’s greatest player ever coming off his record-extending 22nd All-Star selection, he concluded that “it’s the right time for the franchise to reset and focus on the Dončić era.”

The Dodgers (47-27) beat the Rays (41-29), 1-0, behind a sixth inning Shohei Ohtani home run. Los Angeles clinched the series as they have took two out of three with today's afternoon matinee being the series finale. Los Angeles is tossing Ohtani on the mound a day after he hit the game-winning homer. Ohtani is coming off his worst pitching performance as he allowed three earned runs over 6.2 innings. Ohtani's streak of 10 straight starts with two or fewer earned runs to start the season is over. The Dodgers are 11-2 at home over their last 13 games and won nine of them by two or more runs.Tampa Bay will have Shane McClanahan start today in a meeting of the aces. With McClanahan on the mound, Tampa Bay has lost two straight, but is 8-5 overall this season. The Rays have dropped four of the last five games as the west coast trip has not been kind to them. Tampa Bay has been outscored 20-14 in the last five games as they scored eight runs in the only win — getting outscored 17-6 in the losses.Let’s dive into the matchup and find a sweat or two.We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch first pitch, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.Game details & how to watch Rays at DodgersDate: Wednesday, June 17, 2026Time: 3:10 PM ESTSite: Dodger Stadium City: Los Angeles, CANetwork/Streaming: MLB TVNever miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.Odds for the Rays at the DodgersThe latest odds as of Wednesday:Moneyline: Los Angeles Dodgers (-185), Tampa Bay Rays (+152)Spread: Rays +1.5 (-143), Dodgers -1.5 (+119)Total: 7.0Probable starting pitchers for Rays at DodgersWednesday's pitching matchup (June 17): Shane McClanahan vs. Shohei OhtaniRays: Shane McClanahan2026 stats: 64.0 IP, 6-4, 3.23 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 66 Ks, 22 BBDodgers: Shohei Ohtani 2026 Stats: 67.2 IP, 7-2, 1.06 ERA, 0.84 WHIP, 73 Ks, 21 BBWho’s Hot? Who’s NotThe Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani is hitting .297 with 76 hits, 15 home runs and 42 RBI over 256 at-batsThe Dodgers’ Alex Freeland is hitting .225 with 32 hits and 46 strikeouts over 142 at-batsThe Rays’ Yandy Diaz is hitting .313 with 81 hits, 12 home runs, and 46 RBI over 259 at-batsThe Rays’ Cedric Mullins is hitting .198 with 41 hits and 44 strikeouts over 207 at-batsRotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Rays at DodgersThe Dodgers are 37-37 ATSThe Rays are 41-29 ATS, ranking fourth-bestThe Dodgers are 41-33 to the Under, ranking fourth-bestThe Rays are 34-32-4 to the UnderThe Dodgers are 16-20 ATS at homeThe Rays are 18-19 ATS on the roadExpert picks & predictions for today's game between the Dodgers and the RaysRotoworld Bet Best BetPlease bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.Here are the best bets our model is projecting for Wednesday's game between the Rays and the Dodgers:Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Dodgers on the Moneyline.Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Dodgers at -1.5.Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Under on the Game Total of 7.0Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)Trysta Krick (@Trysta_Krick)

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – The most electric man on the pitch was done playing his fake flute. This time, after he became France’s all-time leading goal scorer, Kylian Mbappé raised his arms wide as he ran toward the French sideline. He lifted his right pointer finger and pointed to himself.Number one.That, he most certainly is.The last time Mbappé took the field in a World Cup match he scored a hat trick but walked away on the wrong side of the 2022 final against Argentina, which won in penalty kicks. He picked up right where he left off, though, with his two goals providing the difference in France’s 3-1 victory – all goals coming in the second half – over Senegal on Tuesday, June 16. Greatness always comes with detractors. Mbappé’s standing is no different.“Yeah, well, people will still criticize him,” France head coach Didier Deschamps said through an interpreter after the game. “He’s an iconic player. I’ve always said that. He can miss a game or two from time to time, but on one action, he’s able to tilt the game.“He’s got a global aura due to his real talent. He’s a very decisive player at all times. There may be debates, people vetting their opinions.”Those discussions mean little when Mbappé is doing what he did in the second half against Senegal.A lot of bad, boring football (the American kind) has taken place at the stadium Mbappé graced Tuesday. For the first half, he and France looked like the international soccer version of the New York Jets and New York Giants – lackadaisical and disinterested.That changed once the 27-year-old simply decided, it seemed, to dominate. And if all France needs to remain the tournament favorite is Mbappé to harness some passion and execute his brilliance on occasion, then a third consecutive trip to the final seems more foretold than not.“If he wants to miss the first half again and score two goals in the second half in another match, that’s OK with me,” Deschamps joked. Mbappé’s first goal of the match came after he started stringing together dangerous runs to start the second half. In the 66th minute, Michael Olise threaded a perfect pass into Mbappé’s darting run across the box. Using his world-class skill, Mbappé timed up the arrival of the ball with the twist of his body and thrust of his right leg to beat Senegal keeper Edouard Mendy for the first goal of the afternoon. Coming through on a promise to late-night host James Corden, Mbappé feigned playing the flute to celebrate. “I play to make history with my country and help my team win the World Cup,” he told reporters in French, according to the Associated Press.France added an insurance goal but Senegal made it a one-score game in extra time. Immediately in the aftermath, Mbappé called his own number for an encore, even if his record-setting strike from more than 30 yards away was both serendipitous – the ball trickled to him while unmarked in the middle of the pitch – and skillful. It was like lightning.“It was crazy,” said defender William Saliba. “ … Because we just conceded the first goal for Senegal, and just one minute after, we score a banger. I was so happy. Crazy goal.”Mbappé told reporters prior to the tournament’s start that he’d need to pick up his defensive intensity. He didn’t need to defend much against Senegal, but his first-half performance and willingness to keep pressure in France’s attacking zone indicated a real effort in that area of his game.Not that Deschamps cares.“He’s not here to defend,” the coach said.The intervening years since his World Cup hat trick in December 2022 have been less than perfect for Mbappé. After constantly facing questions about his transfer status, he departed Paris Saint-Germain for Real Madrid in 2024. While the scoring hasn’t been an issue, Madrid hasn’t won La Liga or the Champions League since his arrival, while PSG remains at the top of Ligue 1 and has captured back-to-back Champions League trophies without him.“He does a lot for the group,” Deschamps said. “On the outside, you can think he’s selfish, well, that’s your opinion. I’m very happy for him.”Mbappé became France's all-time national team goal-scorer, passing Olivier Giroud, with his 58th international career goal. He now has 14 World Cup goals, more than Pele and temporarily more than Lionel Messi – who responded with a hat trick a few hours later – and is tied for fourth all-time.Even if the first half wasn’t ideal, Deschamps said, Mbappé is not a player who doubts himself.“Over the whole game, he could have scored four or five goals, theoretically, but we’re happy with two,” Deschamps said. “His performance was modeled after the whole team. He wasn’t very accurate, precise in the first half. Many mistakes were made.”Mbappé told Deschamps that he wanted to score his record-setting goals in a match that carried significant weight – the World Cup certainly qualifies – and not a friendly.“Great achievement,” midfielder Adrien Rabiot said. “We are happy for him. And I hope he will continue like this for the tournament.”If he does, a third straight trip to the final feels inevitable for “Les Bleus.”This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: France World Cup bracket journey depends on Kylian Mbappe goals

LUBBOCK, TEXAS - APRIL 17: Brendan Sorsby #2 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders passes during the Texas Tech Spring Game at Jones AT&T Stadium on April 17, 2026 in Lubbock, Texas. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images for ONIT) | Getty Images for ONIT The NCAA and college football dodged a bullet earlier this week when Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby chose to move on from the Red Raiders and enter the NFL’s supplemental draft. (A lawsuit filed by the Big 12 early Monday may have had something to do with that.) So we will not, in fact, have to endure the surreal circumstances of a guy who admittedly gambled on both the sport he plays and the team he plays for suiting up despite this. Both the NCAA and college sports show the weakness of their awkward position between professional and amateur sports all the time, but never has it been more apparent than in this particular situation.Once again, and as has become standard, a player went to court to fight a ruling that he didn’t like, and he found a sympathetic judge to, at least temporarily, overrule the NCAA. This sort of thing is tolerable if increasingly tedious when it comes to matters of more standard issues of eligibility, but when the issue is eligibility for an admitted sports gambler, it brings home how comical and untenable the college football’s organizational foundation really is. I don’t know what there is to be done about a sideshow cast of judges creating legal precedent in college sports willy-nilly, and it could be there isn’t anything that can be done from an NCAA governance perspective as the system stands now. Which is the problem. We were spared from an embarrassing decision this time around, but no doubt there is some judge in southeast Nebraska with a degree from Hollywood Upstairs Law School poised to tough off the next crisis. It’d be a good idea to head that guy off.

The 126th U.S. Open will be held at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York, this year, with action beginning on Thursday, June 18, and running through Sunday, June 21. Last year's winner, J.J. Spaun, will be competing again this year, and you can expect some of the usual familiar faces like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Jon Rahm on the course, too. Here's a look at this year's power rankings for the entire field of competitors.To watch all the action at this week's U.S. Open, you can catch daily live streaming coverage on Peacock. The Golf Channel will broadcast daily highlights, and coverage will also air on NBC, USA, and NBCSN. Here's what you need to know about the complete golf tournament schedule, streaming info, and Round 1 tee times. How to watch the 2026 U.S. Open:Dates: June 18-21TV channel: NBC Sports Network, USA, NBC, Golf ChannelStreaming: Peacock, DirecTV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV and moreWhen is the 2026 U.S. Open?The 2026 U.S. Open runs from June 18-21, 2026.What channel is the 2026 U.S. Open on?The 2026 U.S. Open will. be broadcast across NBCSN, USA, and NBC. Daily coverage will also be broadcast on the Golf Channel.How to stream the 2026 U.S. Open without cable:To watch the Golf Channel, USA, NBCSN, and NBC, those channels are available with subscriptions to YouTube TV and DirecTV. Daily coverage will also stream on Peacock.2026 U.S. Open broadcast schedule:All times EasternThursday, June 186:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.: Round 1 (USA)5 - 8 p.m.: Round 1 (Peacock)8 - 10 p.m.: Live from the U.S. Open (Golf Channel)Friday, June 196:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.: Round 2 (NBCSN/Peacock)1:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.: Round 2 (NBC/Peacock)7:30 - 8:30 p.m.: Round 2 (Peacock)7:30 -9:30 p.m.: Live from the U.S. Open (Golf Channel)Saturday, June 208 - 10a.m.: Live from the U.S. Open (Golf Channel)10 a.m. - Noon: Round 3 (USA)Noon - 8 p.m.: Round 3 (NBC/Peacock)8 - 10 p.m.: Live from the U.S. Open (Golf Channel)Sunday, June 219 a.m. - Noon: Round 4 (USA)Noon - 7 p.m.: Round 4 (NBC/Peacock)7 - 9 p.m.: Live from the U.S. Open (Golf Channel)2026 U.S. Open Round 1 Tee Times:All times ETTBDMore ways to watch the 2026 U.S. Open:

Could This Be His World Cup? Raul Jiménez Started Statement As Mexico Look To Top GroupCould Raúl Jiménez top the scoring charts at the 2026 World Cup? He certainly started in fantastic fashion.Mexico opened their tournament at the iconic Estadio Azteca with a dominant 2-0 victory over South Africa.Julián Quiñones opened the scoring from the edge of the box, capitalising on South Africa’s willingness to play out from the back. Jiménez then added the icing on the cake in the 66th minute with a vintage header that sent the Mexican crowd wild.The striker now has 46 international goals to his name and sits joint-second on Mexico’s all-time scoring list. His goal at the Azteca was also the first World Cup goal of his career, and many are predicting, using odds checkers like Boostfinder, that he has a chance of finishing as the tournament’s top scorer.Now that he has finally broken his World Cup duck, could the weight be lifted from his shoulders as he looks to fire Mexico deep into the tournament?His manager, Javier Aguirre, who didn’t hold back his admiration for the 35-year-old striker after the final whistle.Aguirre also spoke about Jiménez’s journey back to the World Cup stage after the serious skull fracture he suffered in 2020. He also reflected on the difficult few months the striker has endured following the passing of his father, Raúl Jiménez Vega, in March.“I read an interview where he said this has to be his World Cup. I think he got off to a flying start. He had always been in someone else’s shadow, but today he is a starter for this team — and he has truly earned it. On top of that, he was dealing with a personal situation that may have given him extra motivation. And he even scored a goal. It was a perfect day for him.”On the whole, it was a promising performance from Mexico, a side that entered the tournament with several question marks. How would they play? How would they perform under the pressure of hosting a World Cup opener?Based on this display, Mexican fans will have plenty of reasons to be optimistic. The atmosphere at the Azteca was electric, and the players responded with a confident and controlled performance.For South Africa, however, there is work to do. Their willingness to play out from the back was admirable, but they rarely looked capable of troubling the Mexican defence and struggled to create meaningful attacking opportunities.Things became even more difficult when Yaya Sithole was sent off in the 49th minute. It proved to be a chaotic evening, with Temba Zwane also shown a red card for an elbowing incident. Mexico were reduced to ten men as well when Cesar Montes received his marching orders, meaning the match finished 10 v 9.South Africa now have two suspended players to replace for their next fixture, while Mexico will be without one.Jiménez and Mexico will take on South Korea in Guadalajara on Friday, while South Africa face the Czech Republic in Atlanta.Speaking of South Korea and the Czech Republic, the two sides produced an entertaining encounter of their own.Despite South Korea enjoying much of the possession and creating the better chances, it was the Czech Republic who struck first. In the second half, a cross from Vladimir Coufal found Ladislav Krejčí, who fired the Czechs into the lead.South Korea responded quickly. Hwang In-beom levelled matters in the 67th minute with a lovely piece of skill before delicately lifting the ball over goalkeeper Matěj Kovář.The midfielder was at the heart of everything good for the Koreans and played a decisive role again in the 80th minute, this time providing the assist for Oh Hyeon-gyu to complete the turnaround.It was a bright start to the tournament for South Korea, who showed resilience to recover from a goal down and claim all three points. The victory leaves them in a strong position ahead of their meeting with Mexico in what could prove to be a crucial clash in Group A.

Intro TK: minus “good morning”

The girls soccer season recently drew to a close, and now it's time for postseason awards, leading with your chance to vote for the MVP.More Rockford-area polls: Come and vote in the Rockford-area boys track and field MVP for 2026This is your opportunity to choose the Rockford-area's girls soccer MVP in our poll. The poll will stay open for one week, and then we will announce the winner. Please vote only once per day.Choose from the nominees below, or vote for "Other," and email jtaft@rrstar.com to tell us who you think deserves the honor, and why.Here are the nominees:Girls soccer MVP nomineesLaney Carlson, LutheranNora Carson, Belvidere NorthHaylee Gallas, Belvidere NorthAva Galluzzo, BoylanBrynn Green, ByronGaby Guardado, OregonDelilah Hawley, GuilfordBoey Herren, HarlemLeah Hopper, HononegahAvery Malcolm, Rockford ChristianAva Reese, Rockford ChristianZoe Schmidt, BoylanBerkeley Stenstrom, GuilfordSydney Stovall, JeffersonStella Stubbe, Rockford LutheranAva Tirado, BoylanGracie Whitham, FreeportKendall Zanoni, HarlemOther (email jtaft@rrstar.com)Jay Taft is a Rockford Register Star sports reporter. Email him at jtaft@rrstar.com and sign up for the Rockford High School Sports Newsletter here at rrstar.com. Jay has covered a variety of sports, from the Chicago Bears and Blackhawks to local youth sports, since the turn of the century at the Register Star.This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Come and vote on your Rockford-area girls soccer MVP on our poll

Real Madrid report Negreira case to UEFA, demand sanctionsReal Madrid has stepped up its stance in the offices of European football. The club has submitted a formal document to UEFA’s disciplinary bodies regarding the 'Negreira Case'. In this document, the Madrid club provides new evidence which, they claim, conclusively strengthens the indications of corruption.The Madrid board argues that the prolonged payments to José María Enríquez Negreira, former vice-president of the Technical Committee of Referees, lack justification. For Real Madrid, these events represent a "systemic risk of the utmost seriousness" that directly threatens the integrity, equality and impartiality of competitions."Real Madrid stresses that these facts amount to (...) a structure of improper influence over the refereeing establishment, incompatible with the essential principles of competitive equality", the forceful statement reads.For this reason, the club has urged UEFA to immediately reopen the disciplinary proceedings that were launched at the time. They consider it unacceptable for the situation to drag on, as it seriously damages the credibility of the sport. They therefore demand a firm, exemplary and immediate response as a matter of urgency.Real Madrid clarifies that this request is entirely independent of the criminal judicial proceedings in Spain, where the club remains involved as a private prosecutor. They are asking sporting justice to act autonomously to protect the proper functioning of football, ensuring that "acts of this nature do not go unpunished".This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Fabio Ingolitsch took over at Sturm Graz during the winter break [Getty Images]Hearts were either going to be drawn against seeded sides Sturm Graz or Fenerbahce in the Champions League second qualifying round and it was the Austrians who came out of the pot.On the one hand, it means they drew a side who finished 26th in last season's Europa League instead of one that finished above Celtic in 19th.However, it also means they will be unseeded for the third qualifying round should they win on aggregate after the games in Graz on 21/22 July and the return at Tynecastle the following week.Facing Fabio Ingolitsch's Austrian Bundesliga runners-up could be considered the slightly easier tie, but either was going to be tough considering their greater European experience.However, it should be viewed as winnable considering Sturm only narrowly defeated Rangers 2-1 at home - and lost to Celtic by the same score in Glasgow - in October at a time when both sides of the Old Firm were facing a bit of turmoil.They had dropped into the Europa League after a 6-2 aggregate thrashing by Norwegians Bodo/Glimt in their Champions League play-off.That was before Ingolitch was appointed during the winter break from Bundesliga rivals Rheindorf Altach with Jurgen Saumel having left with his side sitting third in the domestic table.The 34-year-old former midfielder led his side to the top of the table by the end of the first stage of the season, but they let a one-point lead slip after their version of the league split and ended up two adrift of LASK. A scenario that will sound familiar to Hearts fans.The Austrian has already made four summer signings, none of them household names, and 20-year-old Bosnia-Herzegovina right-back Arjan Malic is their only player at the current World Cup.However, there are some players than might be familiar to British fans outside of those games against the Old Firm.Slovenia defensive midfielder Jon Gorenc Stankovic was signed in 2020 from Huddersfield Town, while defender Emanuel Aiwu had a loan spell with Birmingham City.Georgia midfielder Otar Kiteishvili has featured against Scotland, while midfielder Ryan Fosso, recently made his Cameroon debut after switching allegiance from Switzerland.However, it is not a tie that should strike fear into whoever becomes head coach should Derek McInnes move to Rangers as expected.Does a tie against Lyon, Bodo/Glimt, Olympiacos, or the winner of Fenerbahce against Gornik Zabrze await?

Juventus Tracking Bologna Defender and Napoli LoaneeJuventus are widening their scope after appointing Giovanni Carnevali, and he and Luciano Spalletti intend to bring in a few established players already familiar with Serie A and have added Jhon Lucumi and Elijf Elmas to their wish list, Gianluca Di Marzio reports.The latter won’t stay at Napoli following his return on loan from RB Leipzig. He contributed to the Scudetto under the current Bianconeri boss in 2022/2023. He wasn’t a regular starter in the last campaign, but he still played a lot, scoring once and providing 4 assists in 44 appearances. The Azzurri will pass on their €16.5M option to buy, but he’s unlikely to stay in Germany.While Juventus would have to negotiate with Leipzig for Elmas, they could sign Lucumi by activating his €28M release clause by mid-July, or haggle with Bologna afterward. He’s likely to depart this summer because his contract is up in 2027. He doesn’t plan to prolong it.The 27-year-old arrived in Italy from Genk in 2022 and has piled up 152 appearances since. He has 37 caps with Colombia under his belt. The Old Lady is in the market for a new center-back because, in addition to Gleison Bremer’s uncertain future, Federico Gatti could be sold for financial reasons, Tuttomercatoweb reports. Napoli and Roma tested the waters, but the Bianconeri value him at around €30M.Our Take on Juventus, Elmas, and LucumiThey should do what they can to convince Tarik Muharemovic before pivoting toward other left-footed center-backs and eventually add one that would be a clear upgrade over Lloyd Kelly. It’s debatable whether the Rossoblù star falls into such a category. The North Macedonian talisman would be a fine deputy under the right circumstances.

Bills head coach Sean McDermott talks with offensive coordinator Joe Brady during drills on the opening day of Buffalo Bills training camp at St. John Fisher University in Pittsford Wednesday, July 24, 2024. The days following the Buffalo Bills 33-30 loss to the Denver Broncos in the divisional round were a lot for the team’s fans… and their coaches, including Joe Brady. In an exclusive sit-down with Matt Parrino of NewYorkUpstate.com, Buffalo’s new head coach spoke on his emotions when he got word of the McDermott firing in late January.Brady first told Parrino he was “devastated,” later adding:“I was broken. I was broken for a guy that I worked for. I was also broken for the rest of the coaching staff that is sitting there, like, we’re all out of jobs right now. There was a lot of emotion going on.”Parrino went on to document the whirlwind of emotions Brady experienced at that specific time, as he had to immediately prepare for offensive coordinator and head coach interviews with other teams once the Bills landed back in Buffalo. This sit-down, which was also captured on Parrino’s Shout! Podcast, is an all-encompassing look into everything that transpired from Buffalo’s postseason defeat until Brady was hired to succeed McDermott as Buffalo’s head coach. It wonderfully sheds light on the human element of the NFL. Brady worked for McDermott since 2022, and he had been grateful McDermott gave him the Bills offensive coordinator job in the first place after Ken Dorsey was fired in the middle of the 2023 campaign. Brady also went into detail about the uncertainty of where he potentially would’ve had to move his family if he were hired elsewhere. Also, at the outset of his job search, he did not believe he’d be calling the plays in Buffalo anymore. We all know what ultimately happened, as the Bills elevated Brady from offensive coordinator to head coach. Make sure to check out Parrino’s piece (and podcast) in its entirety. It’s a fantastic interview.