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Washington Mystics vs. Indiana Fever: How to watch Caitlin Clark's first game of the WNBA preseason
Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever return to the court this weekend with not one but two preseason games. The first game, against the Washington Mystics, will be held this Saturday afternoon at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, and the second, against the Brazil National Team, will be Sunday in Iowa City, a homecoming at Clark's alma mater. Clark returns to the court after winning the 2024 Rookie of the Year title last season; she and the Fever will be the first team to face the Mystics now that they have three of the top six picks from this year's WNBA draft, Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, and Georgia Amoore, joining them this season.
Today's game is one of 15 preseason games that will be available to watch over the next two weeks; most of this year's preseason games will be available via WNBA League Pass which is offering a free preview period for the duration of the preseason via the WNBA App. If you want to catch all the action, here's how you can watch every single game of the 2025 WNBA preseason.
How to watch the Washington Mystics vs. Indiana Fever:
Dates: May 3, 2025
Time: 1 p.m. ET
TV channel: NBA TV
Streaming: WNBA League Pass, Fubo, DirecTV, Sling and more
What channel will the Mystics vs. Fever preseason game be on?
The Mystics vs. Fever preseason game will be broadcast on NBA TV.
Where to watch the Mystics vs. Fever without cable:
You can find NBA TV on streaming platforms like Fubo, Sling and DirecTV. The game is also airing on WNBA League Pass, and will be available to watch for free thanks to a special preseason preview available via the WNBA App.
2025 WNBA preseason schedule:
There are 15 WNBA preseason games this month, the schedule is as follows (all times ET):
May 2
Dallas Wings vs. Las Vegas Aces, 7 p.m. (ION, NBA League Pass)
Brazil National Team vs. Chicago Sky, 9 p.m. (ION, NBA League Pass)
May 3
Washington Mystics vs. Indiana Fever, 1 p.m. (NBA TV, NBA League Pass)
May 4
Brazil National Team vs. Indiana Fever, 4 p.m. (ESPN)
Connecticut Sun vs. Seattle Storm, 6 p.m. (NBA League Pass)
May 6
Minnesota Lynx vs. Chicago Sky, 7 p.m. (NBA League Pass)
Los Angeles Sparks vs. Golden State Valkyries, 10 p.m. (NBA League Pass)
Phoenix Mercury vs. Las Vegas Aces, 10 p.m. (NBA League Pass)
May 7
Atlanta Dream vs. Washington Mystics, 11:30 a.m. (NBA League Pass)
May 9
Connecticut Sun vs. New York Liberty, 7 p.m. (NBA League Pass)
May 10
Indiana Fever vs. Atlanta Dream, 3 p.m. (NBA League Pass)
Toyota Antelopes vs. Dallas Wings, 8 p.m. (NBA League Pass)
Chicago Sky vs. Minnesota Lynx, 8 p.m. (NBA League Pass)
May 11
Golden State Valkyries vs. Phoenix Mercury, 6 p.m. (NBA League Pass)
May 12
Toyota Antelopes vs. New York Liberty, 10 p.m. (NBA League Pass)
More ways to watch the WNBA preseason:
Every horse running in Kentucky Derby 2025 is a descendant of this racing legend
Secretariat. 1973. The fastest mile-and-a-quarter in Kentucky Derby history.
You know the stats.
But did you know that more than 50 years after Big Red ran for the roses (and then the Triple Crown), his greatness still factors prominently in American horse racing.
In fact, a search of pedigrees shows every horse running in the 151st Kentucky Derby is a descendant of Secretariat.
While it sounds impressive, more often than not, if you go back six generations in most horses, you'll find they're a descendant of some great, like Secretariat or Northern Dancer.
"It’s one of those stats," Derby contending trainer Whit Beckman said. "It’s bound to happen at some point with how much he shows up in every single pedigree. It’s really cool. Very cool."
Beckman trains Flying Mohawk, who claims Secretariat in his pedigree five generations back.
Secretariat was the sire of Weekend Surprise, a blue hen mare, and the dam of A.P. Indy, the 1992 Horse of the Year.
A.P. Indy is the third sire of Sandman, as well as the fourth sire of Coal Battle. (That's the great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather, respectively.)
A.P. Indy, who went on to win the Belmont Stakes by clocking the second-fastest running behind his damsire Secretariat, shows up in the third generation of Render Judgment and Sovereignty (fifth-generation descendant of Secretariat), as well as the fourth generation of Chunk of Gold and Journalism (sixth generation).
Secretariat was also the sire of Terlingua, the dam of Storm Cat. Storm Cat, a dark bay horse, was once the leading sire in North America. (He remained in Kentucky to stand his entire career.)
Storm Cat was the third sire of Final Gambit, as well as the fourth sire of Neoequos, Citizen Bull, Admire Daytona and Luxor Cafe.
Storm Cat was Tiztastic's great grandsire, making him a fifth-generation Secretariat descendant.
(You can find Storm Cat in last year's Kentucky Derby winner's lineage, Mystik Dan. Storm Cat is his fifth sire, making Secretariat his great-great-great-great-great grandsire.)
American Promise has a long pedigree to Secretariat, eight generations ago, through his father's line ― although A.P. Indy appears through his mother's line four generations ago.
East Avenue can claim Secretariat in his lineage seven generations ago.
While Publisher has Storm Cat in his lineage, his shorter relation to Big Red is through his fourth dam Secrettame, sired by Secretariat and Tamerett.
Owen Almighty is a fifth-generation Secretariat descendant, while Baeza is a sixth-generation descendant.
Then there's Burnham Square, whose lineage to Secretariat goes back only four generations.
In all, Secretariat sired more than 660 registered foals.
And 52 years after crossing the wire at Churchill Downs, one of his descendants is about to become a Kentucky Derby champion.
Stephanie Kuzydym is an enterprise and investigative sports reporter, with a focus on the health and safety of athletes. She can be reached at skuzydym@courier-journal.com. Follow her for updates at @stephkuzy.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Secretariat shows in Kentucky Derby 2025 through lineage
Hall of Famer Warren Moon hints at new uniforms for the Tennessee Titans
Not only will the Tennessee Titans field a different team in 2025, but the players will soon look a bit different.
While everyone has known for some time that the team was changing its color scheme to embrace Titan Blue and ditch the Houston Oilers throwback in 2025, it wasn’t clear how much change would be involved.
Last week, after Cam Ward’s introductory press availability, Hall of Famer Warren Moon indicated that one of the reasons for allowing Ward to unretire his jersey number was because he felt it was unlikely that the Oilers jersey he made famous would ever see the field again.
THE TITANS ARE GETTING NEW UNIFORMS!!
— Kay Adams (@heykayadams) May 2, 2025
BREAKING, per Warren Moon!@WMoon1@UpAndAdamsShowpic.twitter.com/rkNyeBKbem
On Friday, while talking to Kay Adams, Moon reiterated that and dropped a nugget on the future of the Titans’ uniforms.
“The Tennessee Titans have new uniforms coming.” He said. “A whole new set, and I’ve seen glimpses of them, but it’s not the Houston Oilers jersey.”
After that tidbit, Adams pressed for more information about the uniforms, and Moon obliged with the following:
“They fit with the times, but they are a bit futuristic,” Moon said, “They will advance with the times.”
No other information on the new uniforms was given, and no timeframe was alluded to, but it would be a good bet that they coincide with the opening of the new Nissan Stadium when the Titans start their next chapter in Nashville.
This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Hall of Fame QB Warren Moon hints at new uniforms for the Titans
Boston Celtics Hall of Famers Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce see Jayson Tatum star turn rise
When Hall of Fame Boston Celtics forwards Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce take a look at star Celtics swingman Jayson Tatum, they see a career arc no tunlike one of the greatest forwards to play the game in the modern era, if not ever. To these two Boston champions, the St. Louis native evokes Phoenix Suns legend Kevin Durant as he entered his prime.
And given they acknowledge that in the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs, Tatum has been playing like the best player in the league while being backed by maybe the best starting five ever assembled (their words, not ours), that is no small compliment to the Duke alum.
The Truth and KG broke down what they are seeing from JT's game in these playoffs, as well as offering up their perspective on the other series unfolding as the second round is poised to begin. Check it out below!
This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Celtics HoFers KG, Paul Pierce see Jayson Tatum star turn rise
Kimi Antonelli: charting the F1 debutant’s rise through the ranks
Kimi Antonelli sprung the surprise of the season so far by taking pole position for Saturday’s sprint race at the Miami Grand Prix, the youngest F1 driver to do so.
The Italian teenager, just six rounds into his rookie campaign as a replacement for Lewis Hamilton, was born five years after the double world champion Fernando Alonso became the youngest F1 driver to take a pole position.
At 18 years and 250 days, Antonelli bettered Sebastian Vettel’s previous record of the youngest pole-sitter in F1, which the latter did as a 21-year-old, and is the third youngest F1 driver ever, behind Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll.
“I did not see that coming,” said Antonelli. “I felt the lap was good and I was happy with it. There were still a few bits I could have done better but I was super happy with how I put all the sectors together. Every weekend I learn massively. Last week, having a break really helped me to gather information and process it all and recharging the batteries, it was really good.
“The whole qualifying I felt I was able to make a step lap by lap. I’m much more aware of how to do a consistent warmup and extract more out of the tyres but there’s a lot to improve. Every weekend I get more confident with the car, can play with it more and explore the limits. At the same time, I can understand more from the setup and give much better feedback which allows the team to improve the car.”
Vroom in the USA
Scarab
Two ambitious Americans, Lance Reventlow and Bruce Kessler, took a look at what the Europeans were doing at Ferrari, Maserati, Aston Martin and Jaguar and decided the could build a better car. Victories came at the 1958 LA Times Grand Prix at Riverside Raceway and their front-engined racers would go on to enter 93 races, with 39 wins and 32 podium finishes until 1963. In F1 they competed in just one full season – 1960 – racing in six of the 10 grands prix, finishing 10th with Chuck Daigh at the US Grand Prix, won by Stirling Moss in a Lotus-Climax.
Eagle
Dan Gurney and the Le Mans winner Carroll Shelby founded All American Racers in 1964 and competed in various classes before taking a crack at F1 with patriotically named Eagle. The stars and stripes team were based in Rye, East Sussex and ran with British‑built Weslake engines. They raced in 25 grands prix, entering a total of 34 cars. At the 1967 Belgian Grand Prix, Gurney achieved the first “all-American” victory in a grand prix since Jimmy Murphy’s triumph with Duesenberg at the 1921 French Grand Prix. An American team has yet to repeat that double feat.
Penske
The last American team to win a race – the 1976 Austrian Grand Prix, with the Northern Irishman John Watson (below) at the wheel. Penske are better known as Indycar racers, but their PC1 cars made their debut in 1974. They scored no points that year and the following season was marred by the death of their driver Mark Donohue.
Haas
A fully fledged American team returned to F1 in 2016, buying up the failed Marussia. Banbury-based, they are still blazing the trail with Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman at the wheel. Still no wins, though, with a lone pole claimed in Brazil in 2022.
Cadillac
The General Motors behemoth is eager to tap into the Race to Survive/Gen Z market, so is launching a team with its premier marque on the car next year.
Antonelli has quietly impressed since filling Hamilton’s seat at Mercedes, his rise rapid. The son of the sportscar racer Marco, Mercedes spotted the youngster in Bologna after he made a huge impact in karting, signing him up for their drivers academy at 11.
He made his racing debut at just 15 years old after claiming a host of titles, and that earned Antonelli a drive in F2 for Prema Racing, where his talents blossomed as Oliver Bearman’s teammate. A sprint victory in the rain at Silverstone and a maiden win at the Hungaroring impressed the F1 paddock, but the real head turner came with his performance at Spa-Francorchamps and a bold overtaking move at the notorious Eau Rouge.
When Hamilton floored the sport with the news that he would be leaving Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025, the young Italian’s name began to be connected with the vacant seat alongside George Russell. Mercedes acted swiftly and, shortly after Antonelli’s 18th birthday, announced at the Italian Grand Prix an Italian would indeed replace Hamilton, although the driver’s bubble was punctured somewhat by a heavy crash on his practice debut at Monza.
Antonelli stands sixth in the drivers’ championship, 35 points behind teammate Russell. He made an immediate impression in the season-opener in Australia by being the only rookie not to crash in wet conditions. The paddock certainly took note of his stellar surge through the field from 16th to fourth. More points have been claimed in China, Saudi Arabia and Japan, where he became the youngest driver to lead a race and set the fastest lap.
His rapid rise certainly gives an F1-mad nation something to cheer about. The last Italian to win a race was Giancarlo Fisichella at the 2006 Malaysian Grand Prix.
Lewis Hamilton's F1 transition to Ferrari is a work in progress entering Miami Grand Prix
MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Lewis Hamilton’s favorite part about joining Ferrari so far? It’s easily the Italian food.
"I’m trying to stay off the pizzas and the pasta, which I'm not doing very well with. I was there last week and have like three pizzas in two days,” Hamilton said with a laugh during a media day Thursday ahead of the 2025 Miami Grand Prix weekend at Miami International Autodrome.
Hamilton’s performance five races into his Ferrari career after leaving Mercedes, however, has been far from a lighthearted or laughing matter for the seven-time F1 champion.
More: F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix will start earlier in 2025. Here's why.
While Hamilton won the first Sprint race of the season at the Chinese Grand Prix March 22, he was disqualified from the the main race due to a technical matter. Hamilton started the year with a 10th place finish in Australia. He finished seventh in Japan, fifth in Bahrain, and seventh again in Saudi Arabia.
More concerning, Hamilton has placed behind his Ferrari teammate Charles LeClare in four of the five races, China being the exception, and he’s placed behind both Mercedes drivers — George Russell and Kimi Antonelli — in three races this season.
More: Lando Norris 'appreciates' McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri, feels good about F1 Miami GP
It makes you wonder if Hamilton — who has watched Red Bull’s Max Verstappen take hold of the sport, winning four consecutive F1 Drivers’ Championships after Hamilton’s last in 2020 — still has it. Hamilton’s elusive eighth title would break a tie with Michael Schumacher for the most all-time in F1.
"I try not to really focus on opinions of people that have no insight into actually what is going on – insights from individuals that have never been in my position,” Hamilton said when asked about other’s opinions of the state of his career amid his tough start at Ferrari. "So yeah, I just keep my head down and try to continue to enjoy the work that I do with the people I work with."
Acclimating to a new car and new team takes time, but Hamilton ould makes some progress this week in Miami after visiting Ferrari’s F1 headquarters in Maranello, Italy last week.
Still, the pressure is on. He’s placed sixth in the previous three Miami races, and it’s been nearly a year since his last F1 win.
Hamilton stood atop the podium twice last year: He won at his home race, the British Grand Prix at Silverstone on July 7, and he won the Belgium Grand Prix July 28. Hamilton inherited the latter victory after finishing second when his former teammate was disqualified from first place because his car did not meet post-race weight requirements.
More: F1 Miami Grand Prix: Oscar Piastri leads 7 drivers to watch ahead of 2025 race
The two victories ended a winless drought Hamilton experienced during the 2022 and 2023 F1 seasons. He finished in second place eight times during that span.
Before then, Hamilton was the sport’s best driver after championships in 2008, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020.
“When I joined Mercedes, the first six months were tough getting attuned to working with new people,” Hamilton said. “Obviously, the engineers I'm working with now are used to setting up a car for a different driver and a different driving style, and I'm used to driving a car with a different driving style. So, it’s a combination of a bunch of different things.”
Asked to elaborate more specifically, Hamilton said there are “many things, lots of different things — there’s not one particular.”
Is there any way Hamilton and Ferrari can shorten their adjustment to each other to less than the six months it took him when he first joined Mercedes in 2013?
"We’re trying to work as hard as we can to shorten that, but it could be longer,” Hamilton said. “Who knows?”
There’s a long season ahead — 16 more races this year — to work out their new relationship, but time isn’t on 40-year-old Hamilton’s side.
“There are things that we’ve made adjustments to," he said. "We'll see how they work this weekend."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: F1 Miami Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton off to rough start with Ferrari
Peyton Manning and Carrie Penner check in on high school helmet project
The Denver Broncos are making a big impact in 2025, on and off the field.
As part of the ALL IN. ALL COVERED. campaign, where the Broncos pledged to provide new Riddell helmets to all 277 Colorado high schools, Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning and team co-owner Carrie Walton Penner took a tour of the Riddell facility to check on the progress of the project.
Manning and Penner were shown each step of the helmet-making process: picking, painting, decal application, packaging and shipping.
Penner was able to help paint a few of the helmets, while Manning helped with decal application.
While reviewing completed helmets for the Peyton Panthers, Manning poked fun at the name of the team. "Peyton Panthers, appropriately named because the Broncos beat the Panthers ten years ago in the Super Bowl," said Manning. "We're combining all these worlds. Peyton Pride, baby!"
You can watch the full video of Manning and Penner's visit below. You can read more about the team's helmet program on the team's official website.
Related: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.
This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: Peyton Manning, Carrie Penner check in on high school helmet project
Pensacola Catholic girls tennis' Libby Krehely wins PNJ Athlete of the Week award
Pensacola Catholic tennis continued its stronghold on the area, with the boys tennis team claiming yet another District 1-1A title and the girls squad finishing runner-up.
Typically playing at the third singles spot, Libby Krehely was a standout for the Crusaders' girls team after transferring to the school for her senior year.
During the week of April 14-19, when the Crusaders were in the District 1-1A tournament at the Roger Scott Athletic Complex, Krehely picked up a handful of wins.
Krehely defeated Freeport's Breleish Breister (6-1, 6-0) in the semifinals before topping Rocky Bayou Christian's Elizabeth Smith (6-3, 6-3) in the finals. Krehely also won in second doubles alongside Ella Cage, topping Jay's team (6-0, 6-1) in the semifinals and Rocky Bayou Christian's squad (6-2, 6-0) in the finals.
For her efforts, Krehely won the PNJ Athlete of the Week award for that week, sponsored by Florida Power and Light, after mustering 27.84% of the poll's votes the following week on the PNJ's website. Each weekly winner is awarded a one-of-a-kind PNJ Athlete of the Week shirt.
Here's a question-and-answer session with Krehely after she spoke with PNJ Sports Reporter Ben Grieco.
Q&A with Pensacola Catholic girls tennis' Libby Krehely
PNJ: Overall, how do you think your senior season went? What did you think of your final year of high school tennis?
Libby Krehely: "It went really well. I feel like I grew as a player, being strategic with how I played."
PNJ: Did it go quicker than you thought, being your last year?
LK: "Yeah, it went really quick. I wasn't ready for it to be over."
PNJ: Has it hit you yet that school's almost over and you're off to college soon?
LK: "(On Tuesday), someone said, 'Next week is your last week.' I didn't realize it yet. It's weird to have to get everything ready for graduation."
PNJ: Will you continue playing tennis at all?
LK: "I'm going to Mississippi State. So I'll play on their club team so I can continue playing. ... It's nice because I can still continue tennis at a competitive level, but not have as much stress with it."
PNJ: What has Pensacola Catholic tennis meant to you this past season?
LK: "I really got to experience the small-school experience, coming from a public school. It was nice, because you get a lot closer with your classmates. And the tennis program is amazing here. Coach (Geoff) Watts is amazing. He builds your game so much. Everyone here is after one goal: winning."
PNJ: The week that you won Athlete of the Week was the district tournament. What did it mean to win individually and finish second as a team?
LK: "It felt really good. Even finishing second, it showed we worked hard this season and that we were always on the court working. It was nice to have a singles and doubles win for my last year."
PNJ: Now for some quick ones. Do you have any pre-game superstitions that you follow?
LK: "I like to regrip my racquet, even if it's just a little dirty. I like having it clean. I just try to stay in the zone and listen to some music."
PNJ: Look good, play good, right?
LK: "Exactly!"
PNJ: How about a pre-game meal or snack?
LK: "I'll have an energy drink and something like a banana."
PNJ: Now you mentioned music. What are you listening to before a game?
LK: "Usually anything upbeat to get me in a good mood."
PNJ: Is there a dream court you've always wanted to play on?
LK: "I'm a big Florida fan, so probably there."
PNJ: Oh man, you're going to the rival SEC school, aren't you?
LK: "Yeah, my dad isn't happy about that (laughs)."
PNJ: Is there a dream singles opponent you'd want to go against?
LK: "I wish I played against some of the Pensacola Catholic girls like Maria, because I grew up playing against them."
PNJ: Do you have a dream doubles partner?
LK: "I would say Gabby (Goyins), anyone like that."
This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Pensacola Catholic girls tennis' Libby Krehely wins PNJ Athlete of the Week
Former Pensacola Catholic golfer David Chávez captures CIAA Championship low medalist honors
A former Pensacola Catholic golfer is continuing to make waves at the collegiate level.
David Chávez, who graduated from Catholic in 2023, was the low medalist at the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association men's golf championship in the middle of April.
Chávez, a sophomore at Division II Virginia State University, carded a three-round total of 215, or one-under par, at the Magnolia Greens Golf Club in Leland, North Carolina. His individual rounds were 77, 66 and 72 to claim the individual championship.
The second-day score of 66 is the unofficial lowest round in CIAA history, according to VSU Athletics.
Virginia State placed fourth out of eight teams at the CIAA Championship.
The low medalist honors were Chávez's second of his career at Virginia State after winning the CIAA Northern Division Tournament as a freshman last season. That year, he was also the CIAA Co-Rookie of the Year.
Chávez is now one of four individual golfers, not part of a team, who will compete at the NCAA Atlantic/East Regional at Whispering Woods Golf Club in Erie, Pennsylvania. Chávez is the top individual golfer of the four. That tournament will be held May 8-10.
Before Virginia State, Chávez won the A. Downing Gray Cup at just 15 years old at the Pensacola Country Club in 2020, defeating a fellow high school teammate by a stroke.
Chávez was a three-time PNJ All-Area team selection for boys golf, and was the Co-Boys Golfer of the Year in 2021. He paced Pensacola Catholic to three district championships and two region championships. He also made three state tournament appearances.
This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Pensacola Catholic alum David Chávez wins D2 CIAA Championship
Competition for Lookman heats up as another Premier League giant eyes Atalanta striker
Arsenal have reportedly become the latest club to turn their attention to Ademola Lookman, as several teams appear ready to make a move for the Atalanta striker this summer.
The Nigerian forward is expected to bring his three-year spell in Bergamo to an end at the close of the season, particularly following mid-season tensions with coach Gian Piero Gasperini, which have led many clubs to closely monitor his situation.
Premier League giants circle as race for Lookman intensifies
According to Florian Plettenberg, Arsenal have added the 27-year-old to their shortlist ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
🚨🔴 Arsenal have added Ademola #Lookman to their shortlist for the summer. More teams are keen on him.
The plan hasn’t changed: Lookman is planning to take the next step this summer. Premier League is possible.
The 27-year-old versatile forward is under contract with Atalanta… pic.twitter.com/FP3Z93egAH
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) May 3, 2025
The Champions League semifinalists believe Lookman could be a valuable addition to a forward line they are aiming to reinforce in the summer.
However, the Gunners are set to face strong competition for the former Everton forward, with Chelsea, Manchester United, and Liverpool all reportedly ready to open talks with the player’s entourage in the near future.
The list of suitors also includes Barcelona and Juventus, who have already held talks for the striker. Lookman has steadily improved his goal tally across his three seasons at the Gewiss Stadium and currently boasts 18 goals in 37 appearances across all competitions.
Who's racing in 2025 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs? Get to know all 19 horses in field
As the field for the 2025 Kentucky Derby on May 3 at Churchill Downs comes together, we will introduce you to each of the thoroughbreds expected to enter the Run for the Roses.
Spots for the Kentucky Derby are earned by gaining points through a series of prep races that began last September.
Before you place your bets on which horses will win, place and show at the 151st Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, click on the links below to learn about the thoroughbreds set to run.
Keep this page bookmarked until the Run for the Roses for everything you need to know about the 2025 Kentucky Derby contenders as horses earn spots in the field.
2025 Kentucky Derby horses
Click on each horse's name to learn more.
How to watch 2025 Kentucky Derby
Last May, NBC Sports announced a partnership with Churchill Downs to present the Kentucky Derby on NBC and Peacock through 2032.
The extension includes multiplatform rights to the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks and Derby and Oaks Day programming, which will be presented on NBC, Peacock, USA Network and additional NBCU platforms.
You can stream the 2025 Kentucky Derby on Fubo and Peacock.
What time is the Kentucky Derby?
Post time for the 151st Kentucky Derby is set for May 3 at 7:02 p.m.
More horse racing: Here's how Journalism, likely Kentucky Derby favorite, got his name from a former editor
Jason Frakes: 502-582-4046; jfrakes@courier-journal.com. Follow on X @KentuckyDerbyCJ.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky Derby 2025 horses: Trainers, jockeys, owners, records
Kentucky Derby post positions: Most wins from each spot at Churchill Downs starting gate
It took several minutes once the 150th Kentucky Derby was finished to officially declare a winner. Mystik Dan edged Sierra Leone by a nose in a photo finish, making the thoroughbred the first to win from Post No. 3 since Real Quiet in 1998.
Post Nos. 5 and 20 generally have the best win percentage (10.5% each) for Derby horses. But last year, neither position produced a top-five horse. Post No. 17 remains as the only regularly used position that has yet to produce a winner with only three in-the-money finishes, making it the least favorable spot. When it comes to a top-three placing, Post No. 10 is the best option, having a horse finish in-the-money during 29.5% of the 88 races the post has been used.
Before you place your bets, here’s a look at where the most winners and in-the-money horses have come from:
Post No. 1
Fastest winner: Hill Gail, 2:01 3/5 (1952)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 95-8-5-5
Win percentage: 8.4%
In-the-money percentage: 18.9%
Ferdinand (1986) was the last horse to win at this position, with the average placing for horses being 8.2.
Post No. 2
Fastest winner: Affirmed, 2:01 1/5 (1978)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 95-7-6-13
Win percentage: 7.4%
In-the-money percentage: 27.4%
Boasts the second-best rate (27.4%) of horses finishing top three among the 20 post positions. Four of the seven wins from this spot came in the 1970s: Dust Commander (1970), Cannonade (1974), Bold Forbes (1976) and Affirmed (1978). There have been no winners since.
Post No. 3
Fastest winner: Foolish Pleasure, 2:02 (1975)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 95-6-8-8
Win percentage: 6.3%
In-the-money percentage: 23.2%
Two of the six wins from this post came in the 1970s — 1975 (Foolish Pleasure) and 1979 (Spectacular Bid) — with Mystik Dan adding a win to the position last year. It's the third straight year the post has had a top-three horse after Two Phil's finished second in 2023 and Epicenter was the 2022 runner-up.
Post No. 4
Fastest winner: Decidedly, 2:00 2/5 (1962)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 95-5-6-4
Win percentage: 5.3%
In-the-money percentage: 15.8%
Super Saver’s 2010 Derby victory was the last for the post.
Post No. 5
Fastest winner: War Emblem, 2:01.13 (2002)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 95-10-8-4
Win percentage: 10.5%
In-the-money percentage: 23.2%
The winningest position with 10 champions. Four have come since 2000: War Emblem (2002), Funny Cide (2003), California Chrome (2014) and Always Dreaming (2017).
Post No. 6
Fastest winner: Iron Liege, 2:01 1/5 (1957)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 95-2-8-3
Win percentage: 2.1%
In-the-money percentage: 13.7%
Has the least number of wins of the first 10 posts with two but has eight second-place finishes, tied with Posts 3 and 5 for the most. Good Magic finished second in 2018 from the sixth post.
Post No. 7
Fastest winner: Northern Dancer, 2:00 (1964)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 94-8-6-6
Win percentage: 8.5%
In-the-money percentage: 21.3%
A horse has placed in the money from this post in 21.3% of the 94 races the post has been occupied. The most recent winner to come from the seventh starting post was Mandaloun in 2021.
Post No. 8
Fastest winner: Lucky Debonair, 2:01 1/5 (1965)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 94-9-5-5
Win percentage: 9.6%
In-the-money percentage: 20.2%
In 2023, Mage became the third horse to win from the eighth post in the new millennium, joining Barbaro (2006) and Mine That Bird (2009). Tacitus added a third-place finish from the spot in 2019.
Post No. 9
Fastest winner: Riva Ridge, 2:01 4/5 (1972)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 91-4-6-8
Win percentage: 4.4%
In-the-money percentage: 19.8%
Tomy Lee and Venetian Way posted back-to-back wins in 1959 and 1960 from the ninth post, which has four winners total. A horse hasn’t won from here since 1972 (Riva Ridge).
Post No. 10
Fastest winner: Secretariat, 1:59 2/5 (1973)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 88-9-6-11
Win percentage: 10.2%
In-the-money percentage: 29.5%
Secretariat, the greatest horse to win the Kentucky Derby, did so from this post 52 years ago. And four horses won in the 1980s: Genuine Risk (1980), Sunny’s Halo (1983), Spend a Buck (1985) and Sunday Silence (1989). This post owns the second-best win percentage (10.2%) behind Posts 5 and 20 and the best in-the-money percentage (29.5%).
Post No. 11
Fastest winner: Winning Colors, 2:02 1/5 (1988)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 84-2-6-4
Win percentage: 2.4%
In-the-money percentage: 14.3%
Brokers Tip (1933) and Winning Colors (1988) are the lone winners to come out of the 11th post. Forever Young finished third in 2024.
Post No. 12
Fastest winner: Kauai King, 2:02 (1966)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 80-3-3-4
Win percentage: 3.8%
In-the-money percentage: 12.5%
Angel of Empire was the last horse to get close to a win from the 12th spot, finishing third in 2023.
Post No. 13
Fastest winner: Nyquist, 2:01.31 (2016)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 78-5-5-7
Win percentage: 6.4%
In-the-money percentage: 21.8%
The unlucky number has been just that lately. Nyquist is the most recent winner, with Simplification finishing in the top five in 2022.
Post No. 14
Fastest winner: Middleground, 2:01 3/5 (1950)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 68-2-6-6
Win percentage: 2.9%
In-the-money percentage: 20.6%
The only winners to come from the 14th position were Middleground (1950) and Carry Back (1961). But a solid 20.6% of the horses to run from this post have finished in the money, including Essential Quality’s third-place showing in 2021.
Post No. 15
Fastest winner: Authentic, 2:00.61 (2020)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 63-6-2-1
Win percentage: 9.5%
In-the-money percentage: 14.3%
The new millennium has seen horses from the 15th post have some success. Authentic won the 2020 Derby. American Pharoah (2015), Orb (2013) and Fusaichi Pegasus (2000) also were victorious.
Post No. 16
Fastest winner: Monarchos, 1:59.97 (2001)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 52-4-3-3
Win percentage: 7.7%
In-the-money percentage: 19.2%
One of the fastest times recorded at the Derby came from this post in 2001, with Monarchos winning in 1:59.97. All four horses that have won from this post have done so in the last 30 years, including Animal Kingdom (2011), Charismatic (1999) and Thunder Gulch (1995).
Post No. 17
Fastest winner: N/A
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 45-0-1-2
Win percentage: 0.0%
In-the-money percentage: 6.7%
Of the posts that have been used since 1930, this is the only one to not produce a winner. Forty Niner came the closest, finishing second in 1988. Don’t Get Mad placed fourth in 2005.
Post No. 18
Fastest winner: Gato Del Sol, 2:02 2/5 (1982)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 37-2-4-0
Win percentage: 5.4%
In-the-money percentage: 16.2%
Country House was only the second horse to win from the 18th post after Maximum Security was disqualified for interference — for the first time in Derby history — in 2019. Gato Del Sol was the only other winner in 1982.
Post No. 19
Fastest winner: I'll Have Another, 2:01.83 (2012)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 31-1-1-0
Win percentage: 3.2%
In-the-money percentage: 6.5%
I’ll Have Another (2012) is the only horse to win from the 19th post, though Wicked Strong finished fourth from the position two years later. Last year, Resilience finished sixth from the post.
Post No. 20
Fastest winner: Big Brown, 2:01.82 (2008)
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 19-2-0-1
Win percentage: 10.5%
In-the-money percentage: 15.8%
Before Rich Strike, Big Brown was the only horse to win from the 20th post. Practical Joke added a fifth-place finish in 2017.
Post No. 21
Fastest winner: N/A
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 2-0-0-0
Win percentage: 0%
In-the-money percentage: 0%
Having only been used twice, in 1974 and 1985, no horses have won nor finished top three from the post, averaging a 13th-place finish.
Post No. 22
Fastest winner: N/A
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 1-0-0-0
Win percentage: 0%
In-the-money percentage: 0%
This post has only been used once as Judger finished eighth in the 1974 Kentucky Derby.
Post No. 23
Fastest winner: N/A
Record (Entries-win-place-show): 1-0-0-0
Win percentage: 0%
In-the-money percentage: 0%
Buck's Bid was the only horse to run from the spot, placing seventh in the 1974 Kentucky Derby.
How to watch 2025 Kentucky Derby
Last May, NBC Sports announced a partnership with Churchill Downs to present the Kentucky Derby on NBC and Peacock through 2032.
The extension includes multiplatform rights to the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks and Derby and Oaks Day programming, which will be presented on NBC, Peacock, USA Network and additional NBCU platforms.
You can stream the 2025 Kentucky Derby on Fubo and Peacock.
What time is the Kentucky Derby?
Post time for the 151st Kentucky Derby is set for 6:57 p.m. on Saturday, May 3.
Reach Louisville football, women's basketball and baseball beat writer Alexis Cubit at acubit@gannett.com and follow her on X at @Alexis_Cubit.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky Derby post position win percentage, history: Churchill Downs
How one moment fueled Veribest's Chloe Becker back to the UIL state track and field meet
Chloe Becker experienced a sprinter's worst nightmare last year.
Becker, a freshman at the time, was set in the blocks and ready to compete in the 100-meter dash event in the UIL state track and field meet at Mike A. Meyer Stadium in Austin. The starting gun fired, then fired again, indicating a false start from one of the nine competitors. Becker took off from the starting blocks early and was disqualified from the biggest stage in Texas high school track and field.
“(The false start) was very devastating,” Becker said. “It was the worst thing, and I cried after.”
There was virtually no time for Becker to dwell on her mistake, though, as she still had to compete in the 200-meter dash later that day. Her 200 was smoother than the 100 and she finished sixth with a time of 25.65 seconds.
A year later, Becker is headed back to the state track meet in the 100 and 200. She is the third seed in the Class 1A 100 race and the top seed in the 200, while carrying a bit of extra motivation this year.
“I look at (last year’s false start) as something that will just build my fire,” Becker said. “I want to make sure that won’t happen again, and it just pushed me towards my goals.”
Miles to Veribest
Becker started running track in the third grade at Little Olympics in San Angelo. She earned a couple of medals and from then on her mind was set.
HIGH SCHOOL TRACK AND FIELD: UIL state track and field: 5 biggest story lines for West Texas, San Angelo entering meet
HIGH SCHOOL TRACK AND FIELD: Wall boys track team has chance to compete for UIL state title led by Angelo State signee Briggs Jones
“She said, ‘I’m gonna do this. I love running and I want to do this from here on out,’” Chloe Becker’s mom, Catherine Becker, said. “Everybody turned around when we were sitting in the stands at one point and said, ‘I didn’t know she was that fast,’ and I was like, ‘Well, I didn’t know either.’”
Chloe Becker stuck with track through elementary and middle school, but it was her freshman year at Miles High School when she burst onto the statewide scene. By the end of the year, Becker held the second fastest time in the 100 with a 12.37 and fastest 200 with a 25.41 in the Standard-Times’ Track Honor Roll, which compares the top local track and field times among athletes from 40 schools across the greater San Angelo area.
Even though Chloe Becker saw success at Miles, Catherine Becker knew there was more potential her daughter could tap into with a change of scenery. So, they looked at nearby school districts and finally landed on Veribest, which Catherine Becker said boiled down to the recent success of their track program and different coaching styles.
“The coaches (at Veribest) really want to see you work hard and so they’re going to push you,” Chloe Becker said. “I also started lifting weights, which is not something I did last year, and that has been a game changer for me.”
Improving on last year’s success
Veribest track and field coach Aaron Dixon knew Chloe Becker had a good chance of making the state meet based on her times from last season.
“I got to speak with (Chloe Becker) and her mom early on, so we kind of had plans that we were going to look at once track started,” Dixon said. “We started working in November once volleyball season was over, looking at things like getting off blocks and her mentality.”
As the track and field season progressed, Chloe Becker’s times continually improved until she held the top marks in the Class 1A 100 and 200 times. Her marks competed with the top times from athletes at larger classification schools, prompting Dixon to sign Chloe Becker into the 5A and 6A races at the San Angelo Relays.
Unfortunately, the San Angelo Relays were cancelled due to high winds, but Chloe Becker still competed in the Angelo State Spring Break Invitational, placing fourth in the 100 and third in the 200 as one of only two 1A sprinters in a field of over 70 athletes.
As the district, area and regional meets came and went, Chloe Becker swept every event en route to another state track and field meet. She enters Austin with a personal best of 12.25 in the 100 and 25.62 in the 200.
“It’s a great feeling, I can’t even explain it,” Chloe Becker said. “It’s just unreal because I never thought I would be here, especially in first or second place. Like, that’s a big thing and I just can’t wait to see what else I can do.”
Paul Witwer covers high school sports and Angelo State University sports for The San Angelo Standard-Times. Reach him at sports@gosanangelo.com. Follow him on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, @Paul_Witwer.
This article originally appeared on San Angelo Standard-Times: One moment fueled Veribest's Becker back to the UIL state track meet
Inter vs Barcelona: Everything You Need to Know About the Champions League Semifinal Second Leg
With the semifinal of the most prestigious club tournament in world soccer underway, we set our sights on the famed San Siro in Milan as it gears up to host the return leg on May 6th for what will no doubt be a thriller match-up between Inter and Barcelona.
With both clubs vying to get one step closer to a place in the prestigious showpiece final at Munich’s Allianz Arena, this important return fixture will provide the away goal needed to show their intent. Indeed, Inter vs Barcelona’s in-person viewing has become a global number one priority for football fans around the world, as they scramble to secure tickets to the European football jamboree.
The second leg comes with the semifinal finely balanced after the tactical chess match of the first leg in Barcelona. With the away goals rule now scrapped, both teams face the same simple proposition — win and reach the final. That binary environment adds further intrigue to what should be a memorable European occasion in Italy’s Lombardy capital.
Inter has its own European pedigree in its legendary treble-winning 2010 campaign, which included a famous semifinal triumph over Barcelona on the way to the trophy. For the Nerazzurri, it is a chance to properly return to the continental elite after several years of finding their feet again. Barcelona, meanwhile, looks to keep their renaissance under their visionary coach going, with the club’s rich European heritage sparking their drive to return to a Champions League final.
The Theatre of Dreams: San Siro
One of football’s most atmospheric venues plays host to this all-important clash, the storied Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, more commonly referred to as San Siro. Seating around 80,000, the stadium serves up an intimidating cauldron of noise that has altered the course of innumerable European nights over its storied lifespan. Yes, the match itself will surely be cracking, but for those lucky enough to get there for Inter vs Barcelona tickets, it’s about getting a taste of the local way of life — for all its passion, so that’s Milanese football culture at its best.
Home to both Milan giants, the stadium has been Inter’s fortress since 1947. Its iconic architecture — with giant cylindrical towers and a steep-sided bowl shape — makes for extraordinary acoustics. The famed Curva Nord, home to Inter’s most devoted ultras, creates an atmosphere to rival that of any venue in European soccer. As supporter groups often do, they set a spectacular stage ahead of the drama to come on the pitch, their pre-match choreography and visual displays masterminded for maximum impact.
Key Tactical Battles
This semifinal is a story of intriguing individual and collective battles all over the pitch. Inter’s dangerous attacking duo will challenge Barcelona’s defensive organisation, which has made significant strides this season.
Planning Your Milan Trip
However, if you have your Inter vs Barcelona tickets already in hand, how to prepare your trip to Milan?
Getting to Milan
Air: Two major airports serve Milan: Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN), with many direct flights from Barcelona and other major cities in Europe. If you are looking for reasonable fares, book long in advance.
By Rail: High-speed trains link Milan to major Italian cities and countries surrounding it, and there are direct trains from Switzerland and France, as well as Austria.
Group travel: A number of tour operators will offer group packages for supporters travelling to Barcelona, often including transportation, accommodation and even Champions League Tickets.
Accommodation Strategy
Milan has plenty of places to stay for all budgets, but rooms tend to fill up fast around big sporting events:
San Siro Area: Those local neighborhoods have easy access to the stadium, but not a lot of tourist experiences and limited public transportation [available].
Central Milan: Areas near the Duomo and Brera districts provide the classic Milanese experience, with superb metro links to the stadium.
Navigli District: An area that focuses around a canal that has a lot to offer in nightlife and dining, with decent public transport connections to San Siro.
Booking once your Inter vs Barcelona tickets have been secured is highly recommended, with prices rising dramatically the closer you get to the match.
Stadium Transportation
Many of Milan’s efficient public transportation links serve San Siro:
Metro: Line 5 (Purple) San Siro Stadio station; Line 1 (Red) Lotto station
Tram: Lines 16 and 19 stop in front of the stadium.
Bus: Several routes (including numbers 49 and 64) link the stadium you with central Milan.
Considering the additional security procedures in place for Champions League games, it is best to arrive 3-4 hours before kick-off and enjoy the build-up ahead of kick-off that has made Champions League tickets so desirable.
The Experience for Away Fans at Barcelona
For visiting culés, the away section at San Siro will be in the third tier of the stadium’s orange section. That vantage point makes for a curious view of the action, but it restricts the catcalling of a Barca fan library. The travelling faithful are known for their passion at games but also their respect for the matchday experience and the example the semifinal will be setting on European soil.
In Milan, a few official meeting points for fans of FC Barcelona will be announced as the match approaches. Visiting supporters traditionally pack the area’s Navigli district and Piazza del Duomo. They are great venues to meet other fans and get involved with the feeling of togetherness that makes European away days so special for those with Inter vs Barcelona tickets.
Security and Operational Concerns
As with all major sporting events that draw so many people together, security will be extensive:
Documentation: You will need to carry your passport as identification, this will be cross checked with your ticket details.
Banned Items: Make sure you know what is not allowed into the stadium, with a ban list that usually includes large bags, professional cameras and some flag poles 꽁머니사이트.
Meeting Points: Set up meet-up spots with travelling companions should you get lost in the crowds or your mobile service falters.
Local Authorities: For this match, Milan is planning massive police presence. If directed, follow their instructions immediately.
Experiencing Milan Beyond a Game
So although the match is the main focus of your trip, Milan is such an amazing city, it’s worth a few extra days for:
Cultural Treasures: Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” the spectacular Duomo cathedral and dozens of world-class museums and galleries.
Fashion and Design: A global fashion capital, Milan provides extraordinary shopping experiences along the famed Quadrilatero della Moda.
Food: Whether it’s classic Milanese risotto and cotoletta or modern Italian fare, the city provides some knockout dining experiences.
Football heritage: The San Siro museum offers fascinating glimpses into the shared history of the twin Milanese clubs.
That makes your Champions League Tickets purchase part of a larger Milanese story and makes for memories beyond 90 minutes of football.
The Historical Context
This semifinal is another chapter in a storied European rivalry between the clubs. Their best-remembered meetings came when José Mourinho was at Inter, including a 2009-10 Champions League semifinal in which the Italian team advanced despite having most of the second leg played with only 10 players on the field at Camp Nou — a match that has become part of football folklore.
This semifinal is a chance for Inter to reclaim a measure of their European glory from the treble-winning season, and for Barcelona to build on not just those successes but the vision for what their current iteration under their coach wants to look like. This context gives an added layer of narrative and emotion to what is already an intriguing sporting contest.
Conclusion
What all this adds up to is a UEFA Champions League semifinal between Inter Milan and Barcelona that is the embodiment of football at its best: tactical ingenuity, world-class players showing their skills amid raucous crowds, and weighted by history. Gaining your Inter vs Barcelona ticket opens the door to sporting theater at its best, in one of football’s most beloved stadiums.
If you’re a devoted Interista, or a wandering Barcelona socio, or simply a neutral lover of top-tier football, this semifinal should be one for the ages. Cram them all together and throw in a dose of Champions League prestige, on top of the raw emotion of knockout football, and you have an occasion that is irresistible in sporting terms.
In order to find yourself at the centre of this historic match, proper planning and persistence in Champions League Tickets will help you achieve this goal. These two footballing philosophies will collide in their pursuit of European glory and what those lucky enough to be at San Siro for the experience will witness is the drama, skill and passion that make the Champions League the ultimate club competition in football. # Everything you need to know about Inter vs Barcelona: Champions League semifinal, second leg.
After the first leg at Camp Nou, this tie will be settled, and one club will move forward to the coveted final at the Allianz Arena in Munich. For millions of football fans around the globe, the first thing on their bucket list to tick off is to nab Inter vs. Barcelona tickets and watch that continental clash live with their own eyes!
Pep Guardiola reveals when he will take a break from management after Manchester City tenure
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has detailed his plans beyond life at the Etihad Stadium and in his football coaching career as a whole.
The 54-year-old will be entering into his 10th season as Manchester City’s head coach by the time the next campaign is up and running, having penned an additional two-year agreement last autumn to extend his stay beyond June.
Pep Guardiola is no doubt Manchester City’s greatest-ever manager having recorded unprecedented success both in England and on the continent, while there is a belief that his drive to bring triumphs to the club has never been greater.
But given the acceptance that the Catalan boss is no doubt at the tail-end of his Etihad Stadium career, some have began to speculate when Guardiola could take his next steps in his career, with international management a longer-term ambition of his.
Now, speaking during a new interview with ESPN Brasil as part of the second series of ‘Premier League Encounters’ on Disney+, Pep Guardiola has offered an insight into his thought process beyond life at Manchester City.
“I want people to remember me however they want. After my contract with City, I’m going to stop. I’m sure. I don’t know if I’m going to retire, but I’m going to take a break. How I want to be remembered, I don’t know,” Guardiola admitted.
“All coaches want to win so we can have a memorable job, but I believe that the fans of Barcelona, Bayern Munich and City had fun watching my teams play. I don’t think we should ever live thinking about whether we’re going to be remembered,” he continued.
“When we die, our families cry for two or three days and then that’s it – you’re forgotten. In the careers of coaches, there are good and bad ones, the important thing is that the good ones are remembered for longer.
“I’ll tell you that the most important thing is not what people think of you, after all, our lives as footballers have been very good. There are new challenges as a coach, I don’t know what will happen in the future and in the end that doesn’t matter.”
There has been long-standing speculation that Brazil may be a country that could entice Pep Guardiola into national team coaching, while the Manchester City manager’s admiration and inspiration from Johann Cruyff could raise the idea of the Netherlands’ position as an idea.
For now, the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss will no doubt remain focussed on the task at hand at Manchester City, with one eye on rebuilding an ageing squad in need to much-needed investment across the course of the coming transfer window.
Notre Dame 2025 Roster Analysis: Defensive Tackles Showed Growth This Spring
You can't replace Rylie Mills and Howard Cross with just two individual players. Its about replacing their production, not the names of the players. Luckily for Notre Dame, their interior defensive line room is extremely deep and they have about five to six guys who are ready, able and willing to contribute on the field on Saturdays. Consistency will remain a key factor for this group, but heading into the summer, the defensive tackles for the Irish is looking stout.
2025 DT Roster
This group is significantly bigger across the board compared to last season. Every player in this room is at least 280 pounds with six guys weighing in over 300 pounds. Coach Al Washington is going to have some beef up the middle which they didn't have consistently in the lineup last season.
Fifth year senior Jason Onye is back full time with the team and had a very success spring practice session. Onye left the team in the middle of the season last year to deal with some personal issues. At the beginning of winter workouts, it was announced he returned to the team and would be a full participant moving forward. Fellow fifth year senior Gabriel Rubio was also back and healthy with this unit. Last spring, Rubio was absent from the team also dealing with personal issues. He returned to the team in fall camp to only injury his foot which held him out for the first half of the regular season.
Rubio returned against Stanford and ended up starting three post season games due to Mills' knee injury suffered against the Hoosiers. Rubio, Onye, Brenan Vernon and Donovan Hinish all put on solid weight this offseason and are still able to perform athletically at the position. It's a solid bet that their run defense production will take a step as a unit this upcoming season.
Post Spring Analysis
The interior of the defensive line answered some crucial questions throughout the spring. For starters, it was a mystery as to what Onye's role would be on the team. His performance throughout the spring secured his spot in the rotation and he enters the summer ready to battle for a starting position. Rubio was able to remain healthy throughout the spring which bodes well for his summer and fall camp.
Rising junior Armel Mukam had a really good spring as well. His athletic ability and size at 6-3 305 pounds was turning the heads of multiple coaches on staff. He will enter this fall as a key part in the interior defensive line rotation as well. True freshman Davion Dixon was catching a lot of warranted attention throughout winter work outs due to his strength and athletic ability. Unfortunately, the 6-2 323 pound true freshman suffered an injury in the weight room which held him out for the spring. He's working his way back throughout the summer and into fall camp.
The Irish had two mid year transfers participate in spring practice. Louisville transfer Jared Dawson and USC transfer Elijah Hughes arrived together and had solid springs. Dawson's ability flashed in the Blue Gold game, proving why he was such an effective and efficient player with the Cardinals. Hughes was the more unknown between the two. He has multiple years of eligibility left and played limited snaps with the Trojans. Hughes has good size and a quick first step. His athleticism flashed during the jersey scrimmage and spring game.
Summer Arrivals
The only addition to this room in the summer will be true freshman Gordy Sulfsted. The Ohio native ranked as a three-star recruit by ON3, ESPN, 247 Sports and Rivals. He was the No. 43 ranked recruit in the state of Ohio by On3 and the No. 20 ranked recruit in Ohio by 247Sports. Sulfsted is an athletic interior player who also played varsity basketball in high school. At 6-4 245 pounds, Sulfsted has the frame to grow into a solid interior defensive lineman for Notre Dame. His overall ranking was hampered by a season ending knee injury he suffered heading into his senior season.
He comes to South Bend as a very raw prospect but the tools are there. His junior film showed a lot of quickness off the line of scrimmage allowing him to be disruptive as a pass rusher and as a run stopper. Sulfsted will have a ways to go before he's ready to contribute on Saturdays, but getting him into the weight room this summer will pay huge dividends down the road.
Moving Forward
The defensive tackles showed a lot of promise throughout the spring. With that being said, they also have a ways to go before they can be deemed an impact group come August 31. Fact of the matter is they will still have to replace Mills and Cross' production from a season ago. They have the tools and bodies to do it, now they will each have to step up. Here are some of the things we need to see from the defensive tackle room from now until the end of fall camp.
1. Build Consistency - This was another position room that was hit with various absences last season. Some were due to injury and some for off the field reasons. Point being, the potential of this room might be amongst the highest on the team, but lack of consistency last season prevented this group from taking the next step. At times, Cross played like an All-American player, and other times he didn't.
The beginning of the season started off shaky for Mills, but he turned into the impact player we remember from the Louisville game until his injury against Indiana. This group will have to remain consistent throughout the offseason and into the regular season.
2. Bigger Impact In The Run Game - At times, they flashed stopping the run. They held Georgia to 62 yards rushing as a team in the Sugar Bowl Unfortunately, that narrative changed in the semifinals and the national title game. Penn State and Ohio State both rushed for over 200 yards against the Irish. The interior of the defensive line will have to generate more of a push and eat up blocks in the run game to allow their elite linebacking core to fill and make plays.
3. Pass Rusher Emergence - Last season, Mills had a team leading 34 pressures on the season and that was without playing in the final three games of the season. Cross finished third on the team with 22 pressures. That production will need to be replaced. It will be a group effort, and it won't just fall on the shoulders of the defensive tackles, but someone from this group will have to emerge as an effective pass rusher throughout the remainder of the offseason.
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Matthew Tkachuk’s First Message to Brady Tkachuk After Senators-Maple Leafs
Brady Tkachuk’s long-awaited NHL postseason debut ended in disappointment following the elimination of the Ottawa Senators at the hands of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
His older brother Matthew, who is still competing for the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers, took time to recognize the fight Brady showed in the first-round series.
Appearing on Friday’s episode of the "Spittin’ Chiclets" podcast, Matthew Tkachuk praised Brady’s leadership and impact across the six-game series.
“I’m proud of the way he played. He played great,” Matthew said. “It was, I think, a very big learning experience to, like, see it firsthand with those guys. And, you know, I thought he really led the charge, like with their team.”
Biz + Whit Celebrate As The Leafs + Oilers Advance - Episode 559 https://t.co/YzCPEg61Wq
— Spittin' Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) May 2, 2025
The Senators fell behind 3-0 to Toronto but responded with back-to-back wins and nearly forced a Game 7.
A late third-period goal by Max Pacioretty in Game 6 broke a 2-2 tie, and William Nylander’s empty-net goal ended Ottawa’s season.
Brady Tkachuk finished the series with four goals and three assists in six games, leading the team in points.
“It’s tough,” Matthew said. “Your first playoff going up against, you know, as great of a team as the Leafs are... I thought Brady and his teammates, back against the wall, (going down 2-0, then 3-0), and able to fight back enough...
”Could have gotten to Game 6 overtime, which I’m sure they would have taken a week ago. He’s been grinding since 4 Nations with stuff too, so I’m just proud of his fight. He’s a gamer.”
Meanwhile, Brady Tkachuk was visibly emotional following Thursday’s loss. He called the defeat "devastating," acknowledging he was convinced the Senators had enough to pull off the comeback.
“It’s devastating,” Brady said. “I believed. It’s a tough pill to swallow right now.
“To be honest, (Pacioretty's goal) was a little deflating. But there’s six minutes left to play… I really believed that we were going to come back and win the game. Just tough. Just tough.”
Related: Brady Tkachuk's 'Devastating' Message After Maple Leafs Eliminate Senators
Related: NHL Delivers First Official Update on Maple Leafs-Panthers Series
Koné previews Fiorentina showdown: “It will be decisive.”
Roma midfielder Manu Koné previewed the upcoming Serie A showdown with Fiorentina.
In an interview with Sky Sport, Koné discussed the game’s importance for Roma’s race for Top 4.
“Roma-Fiorentina is a decisive match for us,” said Koné.
“We will play against a strong team that is doing great things in the league.”
“We are in a good moment, we haven’t lost for a long time and we will also play at home in front of our fans who will encourage us.”
“We will play as always to win, we are confident. We want a victory to look towards the high positions of the ranking.”
“The victory against Inter showed us that in the end we are very strong. Even those who came from the bench gave their best. It wasn’t easy to play against Inter and it wasn’t luck.”
Player’s father drops biggest hint yet that his son is United-bound, Amorim will be delighted
As things stand, you’d expect Matheus Cunha will be the first to arrive through the doors at Old Trafford when the window opens.
Talks have been ongoing between Manchester United and the Wolverhampton Wanderers talisman for several weeks now, with his club resigned to losing him – despite tying him down to a four-year contract extension just three months ago.
A deal for Cunha is set to be as straightforward as transfers come due to the £62.5 million release clause that was inserted into his terms back in February, which is presumably the main reason he agreed to put pen to paper on a new deal; he can complete his desired move away early on in the summer, while Wolves will then have the funds available to reinvest and replace him.
Why Cunha over other forwards?
The 25-year-old has been one of the Premier League’s standout performers throughout 2024/2025.
In his 30 appearances for the Midlands outfit, he’s notched a hugely impressive 15 goals and six assists and has proven to be integral to Wolves avoiding the drop and retaining their top-flight status for another season.
When Wolves hosted United on Boxing Day, Cunha scored and assisted in the 2-0 victory, so it’s safe to say he passed his audition with flying colours – even if it did sting.
The state of play with Cunha’s future
His top-drawer displays haven’t gone unnoticed by other sides, though. Reports have suggested that both Arsenal and Aston Villa held exploratory talks over a potential move for Cunha, while he’s also been added to Eddie Howe’s shortlist at St. James’ Park.
However, the ex-Atletico Madrid and RB Leipzig star is said to only have eyes for United – irrespective of whether they secure Champions League qualification via a Europa League triumph.
His family are seemingly already dreaming of a new venture with the 20-time champions, too, as his father, Carmelo, liked an Instagram comment on a post of him and his son (amongst others) captioned: “Welcome to United.”
👀🔴🔜 pic.twitter.com/XhLMpM0aIY
— Sully (@SullyTalkz) April 28, 2025
Jalen Milroe working to earn the trust and respect of the Seahawks' locker room
Seahawks rookie quarterback Jalen Milroe will arrive in training camp at No. 3 on the depth chart behind Sam Darnold and Drew Lock, and before he can compete for a starting job, he wants the players above him to know that he respects what they've already done in the league.
"I'm a student of the game and I've got to earn the trust and respect of everyone in the locker room," Milroe said on NFL Network. "Meeting extra with the coaching staff, getting around the guys in the room, learning, growing, because no matter what work I have, I've got to be the best quarterback I can be."
Milroe said no rookie should come in thinking he has it all figured out.
"No. 1, got to pay respect to the guys in the room," Milroe said. "These guys have had reps in the NFL, competed at a high level, so as a young guy, all I want to do is pay respect to the veterans."
For the Seahawks, Milroe is something of a project, a talented athlete who will need some time to develop before he's a starter. Sam Darnold's contract makes clear that he's the starter this year, but Milroe is ready to be patient, and work to earn his teammates' and coaches' confidence if the time comes when they turn to him to start.
Could the Commanders still trade for Bengals' star defender Trey Hendrickson?
The Washington Commanders have been in the market for an edge rusher since the season ended, and could still be looking to add a premier player after passing up on one in the draft. Could the Commanders still possibly make a trade for current Cincinnati Bengals star defender Trey Hendrickson after all this time?
Washington has been linked to every big-name free-agent defensive end this offseason, and there's still one that could be available for the right price. Will a trade for Trey Hendrickson actually happen, though? First, let's take a look at the assets Washington currently has available for a trade. The Commanders are already lacking draft picks for the 2026 NFL draft after trading a 2026 second and fourth-round pick for Laremy Tunsil, and only hold five total picks again.
The only player Washington would likely get any interest in for a trade would be DT Daron Payne, and that probably wouldn't be enough for a Bengals front office that has been asking for a high price for Trey Hendrickson. Washington would likely have to give up its first-round pick for 2026 for Hendrickson, and I don't see them wanting to do so, and dropping to only four picks in the draft. They could trade picks from the 2027 NFL draft, but that might be a hard sell to the Bengals, who want to maximize Joe Burrow's window, especially after paying Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
There are also reports that the Cincinnati Bengals are still trying to pay Trey Hendrickson, according to Dianna Russini, and they're very hopeful after getting a deal done. Hendrickson has often said that he doesn't want to leave the Bengals, but also wants to get paid what he deserves.
Some people saw the Bengals' drafting of Shemar Stewart as signaling the end of the Trey Hendrickson era in Cincinnati.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) May 2, 2025
But sources I talk to around the NFL paint a much different picture.
What I'm hearing ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/rKDBzjSaka
I'm not saying it's impossible, but at this point, it does seem very unlikely that Washington would trade for Trey Hendrickson before the season. Could they do it with future draft pick assets and make a new deal work for Hendrickson? Sure, anything is possible with Adam Peters, but it seems like the likely outcome for Hendrickson is a new deal in Cincinnati before the season starts.
Washington may have to wait until the trade deadline this season to address the position or decide to develop the team's future youth and draft the next franchise defensive end in the 2026 NFL draft. In the meantime, the Commanders do have a lot of depth on the defensive line and could also add a veteran pass rusher like Von Miller or Za'Darius Smith as a bridge gap to help them get back to the NFC Championship.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Could the Washington Commanders still trade for Trey Hendrickson?
What draft experts said about new Commanders wide receiver Jaylin Lane
The Washington Commanders entered the 2025 NFL draft with some clear needs. You could argue that adding another wide receiver wasn't one of the top needs, but a closer look would reveal that the Commanders needed another playmaker at wide receiver.
Washington's top two wide receivers, Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel, will be free agents after the upcoming season. Noah Brown, Michael Gallup, and K.J. Osborn will also be free agents. That means that before the draft, only the unproven Luke McCaffrey was under contract beyond the 2025 season. Of course, you should expect the Commanders and McLaurin to reach a new deal. Washington loves McLaurin and understands his importance on and off the field. McLaurin feels the same about the only organization he's ever known. If Samuel has a great year, he, too, could be brought back.
General manager Adam Peters wisely gave quarterback Jayden Daniels another receiver. In the fourth round, Washington selected Jaylin Lane of Virginia Tech. Lane is a versatile speedster who can play outside or in the slot. He is also a dangerous return man. How will he factor into Washington's 2025 plans?
Here's what some expert draft analysts had to say about Lane during the pre-draft process and what Commanders fans can expect to see:
Dane Brugler, The Athletic
"A two-year starter at Virginia Tech, Lane was primarily the slot receiver in former offensive coordinator Tyler Bowen’s balanced scheme (also saw Z and backfield snaps). After three seasons at Middle Tennessee, he posted moderate receiving production in his two seasons in Blacksburg and scored six touchdowns in 2024 (in four different ways: two receiving, two rushing, one passing, one punt return). Lane was a productive punt returner in college and shined on offense with screens, jets, etc., when he could throttle his speed, follow blocks and motor through fly-by tackles.
He is capable of stretching the field vertically (dynamic on slot posts), although he needs work in the intermediate part of the field to better set up defenders, win body position and finish crowded catch points. Overall, Lane is missing the well-rounded effectiveness that teams want in a starter, but his balance and acceleration — especially with the ball in his hands — will give him a chance to impress an NFL coaching staff in camp. His value as a punt returner should boost his chances of securing a roster spot and getting on the field."
Lance Zierlein, NFL.com
"Semi-versatile slot option with legitimate long speed and talent to add yardage with the ball in his hands. Lane can stretch defenses from the slot with his build-up speed and is a viable option in catch-and-run packages near the line of scrimmage. He gives too many clues as a route runner and needs to work on running repeatable, fluid routes as a pro. While he’s tough as a runner, he can’t muster the play strength or ball skills to win the contested-catch game. Lane’s best qualities give him a chance to stick on a roster, but he might need to earn his keep as a return man early on."
The Draft Network
"Jaylin Lane is a versatile offensive chess piece who will earn touches in a variety of ways at the NFL level due to his short-area quickness and creativity after the catch.
Lane primarily aligns in the slot but is constantly moved around the formation to exploit matchups and space. When aligned stagnant, Lane showcases excellent foot quickness to get off the line and into open grass. Highly utilized in the shallow to intermediate areas of the offense where much of Lane’s route tree consists of crossers, overs, digs, sit-routes, swing passes, and angle routes out of the backfield. He’s also highly utilized on designated touches via screens and reverses. Has not faced a ton of man coverage where he’s asked to stack and separate downfield. Rather, he has been largely granted free releases for teams to keep everything underneath. He often is in motion at the snap, forcing defenses to communicate and push defenders to his new location. It’s a credit to Virginia Tech’s offensive staff in adjusting their scheme to what Lane does best as an after-the-catch weapon.
Lane has good speed, not elite. He has short, choppy strides that can change direction quickly. Excellent contact balance that showcases as a return man and downfield on designated touches. Good vision in the open field to ID space. Strong hands but would like to see more consistency in hauling in passes away from his frame, or passes that force him to break stride and decelerate. Competitive in tight areas but is not a player to classify as one that plays bigger than his frame.
Concerns remain about his overall route tree and inconsistent releases against more physical corners. While Lane has succeeded as a common target on designated touches, winning in isolated scenarios at different depths is currently vacant in his profile and a trait that could limit his impact at the next level for teams that do not prioritize volume in shallow areas or an architecture with limited creativity.
Overall, Lane projects as a versatile multi-phase contributor (punt return TD vs. Marshall) at the next level whose short-area acceleration and creativity after the catch will be valued highly by teams with creative offensive structures and diversified personnel packages."
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: What draft experts said about Commanders WR Jaylin Lane
Revisiting Pacers-Celtics Aaron Nesmith trade: Memes to dreams. Who's laughing now?
The Tyrese Haliburton trade was franchise altering. The Pascal Siakam trade was transformational. But don't undersell the deal that sent Aaron Nesmith to the Pacers.
Nesmith plays with a chip on his shoulder. One firmly affixed there following his trade from Boston to Indiana in the summer of 2022.
The Celtics drafted Nesmith 14th overall in 2020, but their patience wore thin and swapped him and pieces to the Pacers for Malcolm Brogdon.
It was a trade many at the time lauded the Celtics and Brad Stevens for.
Boston robbed them. My god.
This is a robbery.
Pacers robbed in broad daylight.
You get the idea.
“It was a brilliant move for Stevens to acquire Brogdon without giving up one rotation player," Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe wrote following the trade. "Nesmith was an Ainge pick, and he never panned out as the pinpoint 3-point shooter he was projected to be coming out of Vanderbilt. Stevens told reporters last week Nesmith was an 'exceptional' shooter, but it did not translate to games.
“It was a troubling statement because Nesmith’s struggles may be psychological and it became apparent it was time for a new team.”
In addition to Nesmith, Boston also sent Nik Stauskas, Daniel Theis, Juwan Morgan, Malik Fitts and a 2023 first-round pick to the Pacers.
One tweet in particular caught Nesmith's eye. Bleacher Report posted a SpongeBob SquarePants meme: "What the Celtics gave up for Brogdon," with an open hand with just a paperclip and spare string in the palm.
What the Celtics gave up for Brogdon pic.twitter.com/8GFYW72WWy
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 1, 2022
“As soon as the trade happened I saw the tweet and I saved it immediately,” Nesmith said in 2023. "I’m someone that takes things personally and I think that helps make me better. It’s what makes me drive to the gym at night. Seeing that tweet is always on my mind for sure.”
Most of the trade grades skewed heavily in favor of the Celtics. But with time, it looks like a Pacers stroke of genius rather than a "Stevens masterclass."
Brogdon (14.9 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 3.7 apg) did go on to win Sixth Man of the Year, but only played one season in Boston. He was particularly poor in the Celtics' Eastern Conference Finals seven-game defeat to Miami, averaging just 5.7 points and 1.3 assists on 31% shooting, including 3-of-18 from behind the arc in the series. Boston upgraded in the 2023 offseason by sending Brogdon to Portland for Jrue Holiday.
With Holiday at point guard, the Celtics won the 2024 NBA Finals, while the oft-injured Brogdon has missed more games than played over the past two seasons with Portland and Washington.
Meanwhile, Nesmith has turned into a vital cog to an ever-improving Pacers team. He's averaged double-digit scoring each of his three seasons in Indiana, is a strong defender and just averaged a career-high 14.8 points and 6.4 rebounds in the Pacers' five-game series vs. the Bucks. His chase-down block on Bobby Portis in Game 4 was one of the standout moments of the series.
"He sacrificed himself, man," Pacers center Myles Turner said. "Landing on your back like that is not fun, but it sparked a big play for us. That's just not new for him. It's very on par for what Aaron Nesmith brings to our team. Just a hard-nosed guy. I think he does an amazing job of just selling out. He'll go out there and just put his body, his life on the line for the team."
Doubling Down On This Tweet https://t.co/Po4IOprTpL
— Myles Turner (@Original_Turner) May 2, 2025
"That's who Double-A is," Tyrese Haliburton added. "What he brings doesn't always show up on the scoresheet. Some people say, like, they're willing to die for this. Double-A is willing to die for this. He gives it his all every night and I think every team in the NBA wants a guy like Aaron Nesmith. Every team who wins big and ultimately wins it all always has a guy like Aaron Nesmith."
Let's take a look back at the trade grades and live reaction to the trade, which of course, favors the Pacers in hindsight.
∎ Andy Bailey, Bleacher Report: B+
"If this is the best they could get, great. Waiting for the trade deadline could've helped, but it also might've backfired. Given all the injuries Brogdon had suffered through over the last few years, another one in 2022-23 could've scared teams away from including any firsts. In this case, Indiana can at least tout that it got one, and Aaron Nesmith isn't a bad prospect to take a flier on."
∎ Michael Kaskey-Blomain, CBS Sports: B-
Called the Pacers' move a "prudent one" made with an eye toward the future.
"The pick probably won't be too high as the Celtics project to be very good again next season, but it's still valuable nonetheless. The argument could be made that they should have held onto Brodgon until the trade deadline in order to maximize his trade value, but that's simply speculation. The team found a deal they liked now, and moved on it. There's nothing wrong with that."
∎ Cole Huff, For The Win: B-
"Maybe Nesmith ends up being something. Theis could get flipped, but if not, he’s a fine placeholder while the Pacers rebuild. Everyone else involved is unimportant. Nevertheless, I LIKE the trade for Indy but don’t LOVE it."
∎ Michael Pina, Sports Illustrated: C+
"That haul isn’t atrocious but was it really the best Indiana could do? Trades are complex negotiations and I’m sure they canvassed the league looking for some combination of young talent and draft capital. The list of interested teams that need a guard and are willing to shed both of those things for Brogdon might not have been so long, though."
"(Indiana is) a team that has a long way to go before they’re good again. This was a decent enough move (albeit unspectacular) to get them where they want to go."
∎ Zach Harper, The Athletic: C-
"The Pacers could have done better here, but they’re on their way to living in the depths of the lottery, and that’s how they choose to reset.
"The problem I have with this return is the young guy the Pacers got isn’t someone they couldn’t have plucked out of the G League, the veteran role player is someone maybe they can flip for a second-round pick and the 2023 first-round pick doesn’t give them a high likelihood of a definite contributor in the future."
Brad Stevens on Pacers front office pic.twitter.com/7tBOF8XIDA
— Luka's Burner (@DoncicSeason) July 1, 2022
The Brogdon trade was a Brad Stevens masterpiece ☘️
— Celtics Junkies (@Celtics_Junkies) April 20, 2023
Celtics received
• Malcolm Brogdon
Pacers received
• Aaron Nesmith
• Daniel Theis
• Nik Stauskas
• Malik Fitts
• Juwan Morgan
• 2023 first-round pick
Malcolm Brogdon just won 6MOTY 🔥 pic.twitter.com/9NzURKJ4Yi
This man traded aaron nesmith for the sixth man of the year pic.twitter.com/HhsM0qMjt6
— ☘️Jøhn☘️ (@JT_For_Three_) April 20, 2023
Boston Robbed them my god
— HaterMuse (@HaterMuse) July 1, 2022
this is a robbery
— kordell (@lledrook) July 1, 2022
The Pacers: pic.twitter.com/H3wbSBKxKh
— Caesars Sportsbook (@CaesarsSports) July 1, 2022
what the Pacers got in return for Malcolm Brogdon pic.twitter.com/UkNb3Zu6rF
— Kevin Thang (@Skip2MyJays) July 1, 2022
Pacers fans rn after getting robbed in broad daylight pic.twitter.com/A06gSNcDp8
— The Correct Opinion (@socks310) July 1, 2022
Tyrese Haliburton to me on Aaron Nesmith: “He’s been balling … he has a chip on his shoulder from being traded and all the things that were said about him.” pic.twitter.com/rXczs7Ycjc
— Bobby Manning (@RealBobManning) January 31, 2024
Former IndyStar reporter Matthew VanTryon contributed to this story.
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This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Revisiting Aaron Nesmith trade: Celtics to Pacers trade grades
Casemiro urges Man Utd to stay grounded after big Europa League win
Manchester United stunned Athletic Club in the Europa League semi-final first leg, racing to a 3-0 halftime lead in Bilbao thanks to two goals from Bruno Fernandes and an opener from Casemiro.
The Red Devils nearly added more, with shots from Mazraoui and Casemiro hitting the post, and Harry Maguire impressing with an unusual run down the wing. Despite the commanding result, Casemiro remains cautious.
Speaking to AS, the Brazilian warned against complacency: “Afterwards, with one man down, the game, of course, becomes a little easier... we have to value this victory a lot, but with a lot of respect... we’ve had problems at home.”
Athletic were reduced to 10 men after Dani Vivian’s red card, but Casemiro emphasized that the job isn't finished. “Hopefully not, but we’ll continue with a lot of respect, with a lot of humility... because it’s a semifinal.”
He added a final reminder: “No, no, no... it’s not over yet... we have to have a lot, a lot, a lot of respect.”
Despite a poor domestic campaign, Casemiro’s leadership has been a key bright spot. United hope to finish strong by reaching the final and securing a Champions League spot.
📸 ANDER GILLENEA - AFP or licensors
Canadiens React to NHL's Announcement on Coach Martin St. Louis
This season, the Montreal Canadiens surprised the league by earning a playoff berth for the first time since 2021, finishing with a 40-31-11 record and 91 points.
The team clinched the final wild-card spot in the East on the last day of the regular season.
From December 3 onward, they posted a 32–18-8 record, climbing up the conference standings and with a .621 points percentage.
Montreal, the youngest team in the playoffs, also went 26-14-8 after Christmas.
All of that earned head coach Martin St. Louis a nomination for the Jack Adams Award on Friday, something the Habs reacted to with a message on X.
Head coach Martin St-Louis has been named a finalist for the Jack Adams Award! 🏆
— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) May 2, 2025
» https://t.co/K7pVjfCa6Q#GoHabsGopic.twitter.com/cPt2l9M29m
“Head coach Martin St-Louis has been named a finalist for the Jack Adams Award! 🏆” along with a photo of the coach next to the trophy.
St. Louis is just the sixth Canadiens coach to be nominated for the award since its inception in 1973–74, and the first since Guy Carbonneau in 2008.
Only Scotty Bowman and Pat Burns have won it while with Montreal. St. Louis also becomes the first former Hart Trophy winner to receive a Jack Adams nomination.
Leaders behind the bench. 🫡 #NHLAwards
— NHL (@NHL) May 2, 2025
Scott Arniel, Spencer Carbery, and Martin St. Louis have been named as finalists for the Jack Adams Award. The award is given annually “to the coach adjudged to have contributed the most to his team’s success." pic.twitter.com/2O4ghN6itj
Hired initially with no prior coaching experience, St. Louis took over from Dominique Ducharme midway through the 2021-22 season and officially became head coach that summer.
St. Louis reached his 100th career win on Feb. 4 in a game against the San Jose Sharks.
The other two Jack Adams finalists are Scott Arniel of the Winnipeg Jets and Spencer Carbery of the Washington Capitals.
Arniel guided Winnipeg to its first Presidents’ Trophy with a 56–22–4 record, the league’s best.
Carbery led Washington (51-22-9) to second overall in the standings and ultimately eliminated Montreal from the playoffs, beating the Canadiens 4-1 in their first-round matchup.
Related: Sidney Crosby, Connor Bedard Not on Canada's Initial Roster for IIHF World Championship
Related: NHL Delivers First Official Update on Maple Leafs-Panthers Series
Steelers Ripped As Embarrassment For Low Standards
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made the playoffs in four of the last five seasons. The Steelers haven't had a losing season in over 20 years. Yet, the Steelers have been seen as somewhat of a disappointment, especially of late. The Steelers haven't gotten past the Wild Card round since 2017, and they've won more than 10 games just once in the last seven seasons.
As the days count down until the NFL season kicks off and the NFL Draft recently passing, all eyes are now on projections for the upcoming NFL season.
Bleacher Report released their power rankings for the upcoming season, in which the Steelers are ranked at No. 17, but analyst Kristopher Knox had choice words for the direction the Steelers have been run with over the past few years.
“At some point, being ‘good enough’ won’t be enough for the Rooney family in Pittsburgh,” Knox wrote. “Unfortunately, it feels like the Steelers are staring down another ‘good enough’ season in 2025. I like the addition of DK Metcalf, but I think he’ll ultimately be just a long-term replacement for George Pickens. The Steelers addressed some big needs at the top of the draft, but Derrick Harmon and Kaleb Johnson will pretty much replace Larry Ogunjobi and Najee Harris, who departed in free agency. Aaron Rodgers represents a quarterback plan I don’t like, and we still don’t even know if he’ll play in 2025. ...''
And in summary? B/R writes ...
"Pittsburgh won’t be a Browns-level embarrassment in 2025, but the franchise is probably looking at another 10-win season, mid-first-round pick and no shot at a true franchise quarterback early in the draft. The question is whether that will lead the Steelers to make meaningful changes.”
The quarterback situation for the Steelers is as big of a question mark as any NFL team currently has. Aaron Rodgers has been dancing with the Steelers in conversations, but nothing concrete. Steelers owner Art Rooney recently made a radio appearance where he said the team remains hopeful that the future Hall of Famer will decide to play in Pittsburgh.
"We're still kind of getting the same signals that we've been getting recently," Rooney said. "He does want to come here, so I do think we may get word soon."
Related: Steelers Receive High Praise for 2025 Class
Related: Steelers Can't Rule Out First-Round Quarterback
🎥 Bundesliga scare: Müller faints, team-mates rush to help
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.
The Bundesliga match between Heidenheim and Bochum was marred by a frightening incident involving Kevin Müller.
In the 50th minute, the goalkeeper was left unconscious after a violent collision with Bochum's Ibrahima Sissoko. The incident sparked moments of great concern.
Durante partida contra o Bochum, pela 32ª rodada da Bundesliga, o goleiro do Heidenheim bateu com o rosto no queixo do adversário e caiu desacordado.
— ge (@geglobo) May 2, 2025
O jogo permaneceu paralisado por cerca de 10 minutos, até que Müller pudesse ser retirado de campo. O clube ainda não se… pic.twitter.com/rP4QNqt3hV
His teammates immediately intervened: defender Tim Siersleben tried to clear his airway by pulling out his tongue, while Jan Schöppner urgently called for medical staff. The medical team erected a screen to ensure privacy and provided on-site care, while fans of both teams chanted in support of the goalkeeper.
Wir wünschen unserer Nummer 1, Kevin Müller, gute Besserung. Deine FCH Familie ist bei Dir, Mü! ❤️
— 1. FC Heidenheim 1846 e. V. (@FCH1846) May 2, 2025
🔴🔵 #NurDerFCH#FCHBOCpic.twitter.com/qBqs0tTvIW
After a nine-minute wait, Müller was immobilized and taken away on a stretcher to applause from the crowd. Coach Frank Schmidt commented on DAZN: "These are images you never want to see on the pitch. We just hope he can recover as soon as possible”.
Connor Wong returns to Red Sox roster; backup catcher sent to AAA
BOSTON — Less than four weeks after fracturing his pinky finger, Connor Wong is back with the Red Sox on Friday night.
Boston activated Wong from the injured list before its series opener against the Twins and optioned backup catcher Blake Sabol to Triple-A Worcester. Wong is hitting seventh and catching Brayan Bello on Friday.
Wong, who entered the season as the starter behind the plate, was 2-for-23 (.087) with seven strikeouts in nine games before being injured when George Springer nicked his hand on a catcher’s interference during a game on April 7. He recovered rather quickly from the injury and played in three rehab games at Triple-A Worcester this week, going 4-for-11 with one double, one home run, and three RBIs. He also took a number of at-bats against the Trajekt pitch simulator machine in recent days.
“That’s the luxury of having Trajekt,” said manager Alex Cora. “You can have as many at-bats as possible without being on the field. He attacked that the right way. Defensively, the first day, he was off and a little bit hesitant, then yesterday he felt great with the moves.”
Wong returns in a bit of a different situation than the one he left as the upstart play of backup catcher Carlos Narváez — who has proven to be elite defensively while providing some pop at the plate — has led to an expected timeshare between the two moving forward. Wong will get his fair share of starts but Narváez is expected to mix in on a consistent basis as well. Cora said he’d take it “day-by-day” in regards to deciding who will catch.
“Narvy caught the three games in Toronto. We thought it was a good day for Connor to get here and catch Bello,” Cora said. “He’s here and we know he’s going to contribute.”
Sabol, acquired in a minor winter trade with San Francisco, appeared in eight games, making four starts. He hit .125 (2-for-16) with a double and seven strikeouts. Runners attempting to steal off him went 10-for-11. He will return to Triple-A where he will split time with veteran Yasmani Grandal, who decided to stay with the organization for the time being despite holding a May 1 opt-out in his minor league contract.
More Red Sox coverage
- After Triston Casas’ ‘significant’ injury, how might Red Sox fill first base?
- Red Sox’ Triston Casas has ‘significant’ knee injury, ‘was in shock,’ Alex Cora says
- Red Sox reactions: Brayan Bello shines in win overshadowed by Triston Casas’ injury
- Triston Casas stretchered off field with leg injury
- Red Sox rookie earns MLB honors
Read the original article on MassLive.
Red Sox rookie earns MLB honors
BOSTON — Kristian Campbell’s debut season keeps getting better.
The Red Sox’ second baseman — and occasional outfielder — was Friday chosen as the American League Rookie of the Month for March/April.
Campbell, who seemingly came out of nowhere to earn a spot o the Opening Day roster, became the first Red Sox rookie to win a monthly award since Triston Casas won the same award in July, 2023. He’s the 11th Red Sox rookie to win the award overall.
The 22-year-old Campbell hit .301 with four homers and 12 RBI, eight doubles, 19 walks, 18 runs scored and two stolen bases. He also compiled a .407 on-base percentage, a .495 slugging percentage and a .902 OPS over his first 29 games in the big leagues.
For the time period, Campbell led all qualified rookies in on-base percentage, walks, runs scored and extra-base hits while ranking second in slugging, OPS, hits, and total bases.
He also successfully reached base in each of his first 17 games, the second-longest streak to begin a Red Sox major league career behind George Scott in 1966. Campbell had 11 multi-hit games.
“He’s done a lot of good things,” said manager Alex Cora. “Offensively, he dominates the strike zone. He hits the ball hard the other way. He’s learning, too, which is the best thing. You sit down with him and you talk about the whole experience and it’s a great conversation.
“We’re very excited for him. Defensively, he’s getting better, too. He’s been working (on moving to his right). That play has been hard for him since he got here. But he’s turning the double play great. So far, so good.”
Campbell was out of the lineup for the second straight game Friday night, nursing some soreness in his ribs. Cora said the expectation is that the rookie will return to the lineup Saturday.
More Red Sox coverage
- After Triston Casas’ ‘significant’ injury, how might Red Sox fill first base?
- Red Sox’ Triston Casas has ‘significant’ knee injury, ‘was in shock,’ Alex Cora says
- Red Sox reactions: Brayan Bello shines in win overshadowed by Triston Casas’ injury
- Triston Casas stretchered off field with leg injury
- Alex Cora explains why he didn’t intentionally walk Vlad Guerrero Jr. in crushing Red Sox loss
Read the original article on MassLive.
Red Sox’ Triston Casas has ‘significant’ knee injury, ‘was in shock,’ Alex Cora says
BOSTON — In the aftermath of an otherwise encouraging 6-1 victory over the Minnesota Twins, the Red Sox lamented the loss of first baseman Triston Casas, who was carted off the field in the bottom of the second inning following what appeared to be a serious injury to his left knee.
“It’s a significant knee injury,” confirmed Alex Cora. “He’s at the hospital right now, getting more tests and all that stuff. We’ll have more information (Saturday).”
Cora and a member of the team’s training staff rushed out to attend to Casas, who stumbled over the first base bag while attempting to beat out a soft roller to the right of the mound, only to fall to the ground after the knee appeared to buckle.
“It seemed like he was in shock, to be honest with you,” said Cora. “He said it right away, that he didn’t feel it. It’s tough. He worked so hard. We want him on the field. It was a hustle play, too and that happened.”
Cora said the scene on the infield dirt, with Casas on his back in obvious distress, was an emotional one for all involved.
“You put so much effort into (preparing) in the offseason,” said Cora. “I know how it works and everything that he went through in the offseason, getting ready for this. He was looking forward to having a big season for us. It didn’t start the way he wanted, but he kept grinding, kept working and now this happens.
“We love (the game), we love the whole thing. But in the end, we’re human beings and you suffer with them. It was tough to see it...It sucks, to be honest with you. That’s the part you don’t like about the job — when people get hurt and when you have to send people down. It’s pretty tough.
“Like I said before, they put so much effort and work into the offseason to try to play 162-plus and then something like that happens. That’s the reason we don’t take it for granted — showing up to work every day and being a big leaguer. And he loves being a big-leaguer. He likes to come to the ballpark at 10 in the morning and leave at midnight and do his thing. For now, it’s going to be taken away, but like I said before, I told him he’s going to be back at some point."
Cora said the atmosphere in the home dugout was “very quiet.”
“Horrible,” concluded teammate Alex Bregman. “Obviously, we’re all thinking about him and hoping for the best. Great teammate and you hate to see that happen. We’re all thinking about him right now.”
Bregman said it was difficult to focus on the game after the injury cast a pall on the team.
“For sure, it’s tough,” he said. “We’re a big family in here that comes to the ballpark every single day together and to see one of your guys go down like that, it’s really tough.”
Trevor Story, who suffered a serious shoulder injury a week into last season which caused him to miss almost five months, came out to comfort Casas as he waited for the cart to take him off the field.
“(We were all) just in shock,” said Cora. “You don’t expect that. And when you see the card, that’s when you (realize), ‘Oh...this is more than a twisted ankle’ or something like that.”
Asked what the team’s plans are for first base, Cora offered little in the way of details.
“We’re going to meet after the game, and we’ll talk,” Cora said.
More Red Sox coverage
- After Triston Casas’ ‘significant’ injury, how might Red Sox fill first base?
- Red Sox reactions: Brayan Bello shines in win overshadowed by Triston Casas’ injury
- Triston Casas stretchered off field with leg injury
- Red Sox rookie earns MLB honors
- Alex Cora explains why he didn’t intentionally walk Vlad Guerrero Jr. in crushing Red Sox loss
Read the original article on MassLive.
Red Sox’ Walker Buehler (shoulder) hits injured list; rookie set to replace him in rotation
BOSTON — Red Sox starter Walker Buehler doesn’t appear to have a serious shoulder injury, but that won’t stop the team from placing him on the injured list for the time being.
Buehler was placed on the 15-day IL before Friday’s game with right shoulder bursitis, according to the team. Righty Hunter Dobbins was called up from Triple-A in his place. Buehler, who was scheduled to pitch in the Sox’ series opener against the Twins, flew home early from Toronto for testing after not bouncing back well from his last start Saturday in Cleveland. The Red Sox are hopeful Buehler will be able to avoid a lengthy absence.
“He’s gonna go on the IL,” Cora said. “We don’t think it’s that serious. Miss two starts and hopefully be back as soon as the days are over.”
According to Cora, the plan is for Buehler to continue throwing while sidelined in an effort to accelerate his return. The Red Sox backdated his IL stint to April 29, making the righty eligible to return as early as May 14.
“He’ll be OK,” Cora said. “We’ll talk about it but I’m not too worried about it. (Head athletic trainer) Brandon (Henry) is not either. Hopefully, it’s something where he misses two starts and he’s right back with us.”
Brayan Bello was moved up a day to start in place of Buehler on Friday, leaving Saturday open for the Red Sox. The plan is for Dobbins to make that start, as a source said earlier in the day that Dobbins has been informed he will be called up from Triple-A and pitch. Garrett Crochet will pitch Sunday’s series finale against the Twins and the Red Sox, who two days off in an 11-day span between May 5 and May 15, will be able to manipulate their rotation from there.
Dobbins, who owns a 2.45 ERA while recording 11 strikeouts in 11 innings over his first two major league starts, projects to be the primary replacement for Buehler. The 25-year-old righty was scratched from his outing in Worcester on Thursday and has been on standby for a couple days. The Red Sox also have lefty Sean Newcomb, who has shifted to the bullpen in recent days, as another rotation fill-in option. Righty Richard Fitts is still on the injured list but is throwing on flat ground from 120 feet and is progressing well.
Buehler, signed to a one-year, $21.05 million contract over the winter, owns a 4-1 record and 4.28 ERA in his first six starts in a Red Sox uniform. After a rough two-outing start to his year, the ex-Dodger has pitched well over his last four starts, posting a 2.59 ERA in four Red Sox wins. In Cleveland on Saturday, Buehler allowed three runs on seven hits in six innings. He struck out three.
Buehler’s shoulder issue is the latest ailment on a long list of arm injuries throughout his career. With Los Angeles, Buehler returned last May after undergoing a second Tommy John surgery in August 2022 that caused him to miss the entire 2023 season. His first Tommy John surgery was in 2015.
More Red Sox coverage
- After Triston Casas’ ‘significant’ injury, how might Red Sox fill first base?
- Red Sox’ Triston Casas has ‘significant’ knee injury, ‘was in shock,’ Alex Cora says
- Red Sox reactions: Brayan Bello shines in win overshadowed by Triston Casas’ injury
- Triston Casas stretchered off field with leg injury
- Red Sox rookie earns MLB honors
Read the original article on MassLive.
Alex Cora explains why he didn’t intentionally walk Vlad Guerrero Jr. in crushing Red Sox loss
BOSTON — Less than 24 hours after the Red Sox lost to the Blue Jays in heartbreaking fashion on a three-run, eighth-inning blast by Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Alex Cora explained why he chose not to intentionally walk Toronto’s $500 million Thursday night.
With the Red Sox up, 4-2, the Jays had two runners in scoring position with one out after Nathan Lukes singled and Bo Bichette doubled off Justin Slaten in the eighth. Instead of putting Guerrero on base to get to Anthony Santander, Cora chose to have Slaten pitch to him — and the Red Sox got burned. Slaten had Guerrero down 0-2 count before three balls and a foul ball loaded the count. Slaten then missed low with a curveball but Guerrero went down and got it, blasting a 111.8 mph homer to left that put the Jays ahead in an eventual 5-4 win.
Before Friday’s game at Fenway Park, Cora was asked if he’d consider walking Guerrero.
“You know what? I thought about it and probably if it’s in the World Series, I would have walked him... and we can’t play them in the World Series,” Cora said.
As another reporter started a question on another topic, Cora — uncharacteristically — interrupted him, wanting to circle back to the Guerrero question with a thoughtful explanation.
"The walking part of it, I get it,“ the manager said. ”It’s Vladdy Guerrero. We had him 0-2. We didn’t execute pitches after that. There’s a two-way street here. And I get it. Probably, in the ALCS, I’ll walk him. But right now in April and May, I’ve got to trust my guy. I’ve got to give Justin the leeway that he can do the job. And he has been great for us. Yesterday, he didn’t execute three pitches: a 1-2 breaking ball (to Lukes), a 1-2 breaking ball (to Bichette) and a 3-2 breaking ball (to Guerrero). We learned from that. I learned from that, too. Maybe next time we face them, we’ll think about it, right?
“It’s all about trust right now. We have a lot of young players on this roster. Where we’re going — well, it might be decided from yesterday, we might lose the wild card or division by one game and it’s on me — but I think the way I manage right now, especially with this group, you‘ve got to be very patient because I truly believe this is a very talented team. It’s not like last year where you have to go pedal to the metal and, ‘Ok, pinch hit in the fifth’ or ‘walk this guy’ and try to will wins out there. No. You trust Justin Slaten in that situation. It didn’t happen. That’s being honest with you."
More Red Sox coverage
- After Triston Casas’ ‘significant’ injury, how might Red Sox fill first base?
- Red Sox’ Triston Casas has ‘significant’ knee injury, ‘was in shock,’ Alex Cora says
- Red Sox reactions: Brayan Bello shines in win overshadowed by Triston Casas’ injury
- Triston Casas stretchered off field with leg injury
- Red Sox rookie earns MLB honors
Read the original article on MassLive.
Read the original article on MassLive.
Corey Rosier goes deep, leads Worcester Red Sox past Toledo
The Worcester Red Sox defeated the Toledo Mud Hens, 5-2, on Friday afternoon.
Corey Rosier opened the WooSox account with an RBI single in the second. After Roman Anthony drove in another run with a sac fly, Vaughn Grissolm drove in two runs with a single to left field.
Rosier launched a solo home run to right-center field in the fifth inning.
Cooper Criswell hurled six shut out innings for the WooSox, striking out eight batters. Criswell allowed just one walk and one hit, a solo home run to Akil Badoo in the sixth.
The Mud Hens cut the deficit to three in the eighth off another solo home run from Andrew Navigato, but Nick Burdi came out of the bullpen and secured a five-out save.
Worcester (16-14) will face Toledo in the fifth game of its six-game series with the Mud Hens on Saturday, May 3 at 4:05 p.m.
Read the original article on MassLive.
Triston Casas stretchered off field with leg injury
BOSTON — Red Sox first baseman Triston Casas suffered what appeared to be a fairly serious left leg injury in the second inning Friday night.
Casas, leading off the inning, topped a ground ball to the right of the pitcher’s mound. Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Joe Ryan came off the mound and fielded the ball, but bobbled it as he tried to gather it.
As Ryan attempted to underhand the ball the first baseman Brooks Lee, Casas sped up, seeing that he now had a chance to beat the throw. But as he took a long stride toward the first base bag, his left knee appeared to buckle and Casas went tumbling to the dirt, immediately grabbing the knee as he remained on his back, writhing in pain.
Casas was attended to by a member of the Red Sox’ training staff and manager Alex Cora as he remained on his back in the infield dirt. A cart and a stretcher were summoned, and Casas was able to get onto the stretcher, and eventually, lifted into the cart.
Romy Gonzalez replaced Casas at first base.
It’s likely that Gonzalez will see plenty of playing time at the position in his absence. The Sox have limited options otherwise on the current active roster. Connor Wong played there sparingly last season and outfielder Rob Refsnyder has played 36 games at first in his career, but none since the 2020 season.
In all likelihood, the Red Sox will turn to Vaughn Grissom, who has been getting playing time at the position for the last few weeks in order to expand his versatility.
This would mark the second straight season in which Casas’s season has been interrupted by injury. Last year, he dealt with a rib cage injury which limited him to just 63 games. He was out of the lineup from April 21 until Aug. 16.
More Red Sox coverage
- After Triston Casas’ ‘significant’ injury, how might Red Sox fill first base?
- Red Sox’ Triston Casas has ‘significant’ knee injury, ‘was in shock,’ Alex Cora says
- Red Sox reactions: Brayan Bello shines in win overshadowed by Triston Casas’ injury
- Red Sox rookie earns MLB honors
- Alex Cora explains why he didn’t intentionally walk Vlad Guerrero Jr. in crushing Red Sox loss
Read the original article on MassLive.
Red Sox lineup: Kristian Campbell (back) out again as homestand begins
BOSTON — As the Red Sox kick off a six-game homestand at Fenway Friday, they’re not quite at full strength.
Kristian Campbell, who was scratched from the road trip finale with right rib discomfort, remained out of the lineup for a second straight game. David Hamilton will play second in Campbell’s absence.
Manager Alex Cora said Campbell remained sore, but could potentially return to action by Saturday.
The first of three against the Minnesota Twins will feature Brayan Bello on the mound for his third start this season. Walker Buehler had been scheduled to start, but he’s been placed on the IL with inflammation in his right shoulder.
The game features the return of catcher Connor Wong behind the plate. He was activated earlier in the day after missing three-plus weeks with a broken finger in his left hand.
Friday’s lineup also features Wilyer Abreu in the cleanup spot in the batting order for the 11th time this season.
MINNESOTA TWINS (13-19) @ BOSTON RED SOX (17-16) · FENWAY PARK · BOSTON, MA · GAME 34
FIRST PITCH: 7:10 p.m. ET
TV CHANNEL: NESN
RADIO: WEEI 93.7 FM
PITCHING PROBABLES: RHP Joe Ryan (2-2, 3.18 ERA) vs. RHP Brayan Bello (2-0, 3.27 ERA)
RED SOX LINEUP:
1) LF Jarren Duran
2) DH Rafael Devers
3) 3B Alex Bregman
4) RF Wilyer Abreu
5) SS Trevor Story
6) 1B Triston Casas
7) C Connor Wong
8) 2B David Hamilton
9) CF Ceddanne Rafaela
TWINS LINEUP:
1) LF Trevor Larnach
2) CF Byron Buxton
3) 3B Brooks Lee
4) SS Carlos Correa
5) 1B Ty France
6) 2B Edouard Julien
7) C Ryan Jeffers
8) DH Mickey Gasper
9) RF Harrison Bader
More Red Sox coverage
- After Triston Casas’ ‘significant’ injury, how might Red Sox fill first base?
- Red Sox’ Triston Casas has ‘significant’ knee injury, ‘was in shock,’ Alex Cora says
- Red Sox reactions: Brayan Bello shines in win overshadowed by Triston Casas’ injury
- Triston Casas stretchered off field with leg injury
- Red Sox rookie earns MLB honors
Read the original article on MassLive.
Red Sox reactions: Brayan Bello shines in win overshadowed by Triston Casas’ injury
BOSTON — Instant reactions from a gritty 6-1 win for the Red Sox (18-16) in which Triston Casas was stretchered off after suffering what could be a serious left leg injury:
1) Results aside, the story of Friday night is Casas, who once again looks like he’s headed for a prolonged absence due to injury. It was hard to tell exactly what happened as part of the gnarly collision that sent him out of the game — and into an ambulance on a stretcher — in the second inning, but the fact he was unable to get up on his own as well as his body language made it seem like he was very concerned about what happened. Testing will likely continue into the early morning Saturday.
2) The Red Sox needed someone to step up as their clear No. 2 starter behind Garrett Crochet from the start of the season and Walker Buehler’s shoulder injury only makes that need more acute. The fact that Brayan Bello — who allowed one run on four hits and struck out five in 6 ⅔ innings — has come on very strong in his first three outings of 2025 is a really good sign for Boston. If this is the year Bello puts it all together, the Red Sox could have one of the best 1-2 punches at the top of their rotation in the big leagues.
Bello, who made his season debut on April 22, now has a 2.55 through 17 ⅔ innings to start the year. The only blip for him Friday was a rocket Ryan Jeffers homer in the third. He got a nice ovation from the Fenway crowd as he departed.
3) The game completely changed when the Twins replaced starter Joe Ryan and turned to their bullpen, which was putrid.
Ryan, as it seems like he often is against the Red Sox, was equally as dominant as Bello. One of the more underrated arms in the big leagues, the righty held the Red Sox to a lone run on four hits while striking out eight batters in six innings. When he left, it was a 1-1 game.
Then came the avalanche for Boston’s offense, who had more than double the amount of hits they did in six innings against Ryan in the final two frames against three Minnesota relievers (Louis Varland, Danny Coulombe and Jorge Alcala). The final tally? Five runs and nine hits in the seventh and eighth combined.
4) The Red Sox learned, once again, the value of putting the ball in play in a well put-together seventh inning. After Connor Wong and David Hamilton each hit soft singles off Varland to lead things off, Ceddanne Rafaela put two men in scoring position for the top of the order with a sacrifice bunt. Tough lefty Coulombe then struck out Jarren Duran and got two strikes on Rafael Devers before the slugger roped a 102.8 mph hopper into the second base hole. Edouard Julien couldn’t corral it and both runs scored to break a 1-1 tie and give Boston the lead for good.
5) After two brutal nights north of the border, Boston’s bullpen was once again tasked with holding on to a small lead. This time, with a slightly different cast of characters, they did. Greg Weissert worked around a single in a scoreless eighth in a two-run game, and Alex Cora was planning to turn to closer Aroldis Chapman for the ninth. Then, the Sox scored three times in the eighth, Chapman sat down and Liam Hendriks came in to shut the door with a five-run lead. He did so on 10 pitches.
6) Alex Bregman has yet to cool down. After an excellent series in Toronto, he returned to Fenway with a bang, giving Bello and the Red Sox an instant 1-0 lead with a blast to left off Joe Ryan. That’s his third Fenway homer of the year. There would seem to be plenty more to come. He added a double later in the game.
7) Romy Gonzalez might find himself playing a lot if Casas has to miss significant time, as expected. He got in rhythm with an RBI double that provided an insurance run in the eighth, then promptly stole third and scored. The Red Sox were 4-for-4 nabbing bases against Jeffers.
8) Hamilton entered the night just 3-for-33 (.091) to start the season, then struck out in his first at-bat. In an effort to create instant offense out of the No. 8 spot, Hamilton successfully bunted for a hit with one out on the fifth, then stole both second and third. The Red Sox couldn’t get him in, but it was worth a shot. Rafaela’s bunt a couple innings later proved more impactful.
Hamilton then had real hits in his next two at-bats, including a wall-ball double to make it a 5-1 game (and no longer a save situation) in the bottom of the eighth.
9) Bello posted a quality start, and it was the sixth straight such outing from a Red Sox starter. Believe it or not, that’s the longest quality start streak from Boston’s staff since 2017 (8).
10) With Walker Buehler on the injured list due to shoulder bursitis, the Red Sox will turn to rookie Hunter Dobbins (2-0, 2.45 ERA) in Saturday’s middle game of the series. The Twins will send Bailey Ober (3-1, 4.13 ERA) to the mound. First pitch is at 4:10 p.m. ET.
Expect the Red Sox to make a roster move to replace Casas at some point before the game.
More Red Sox coverage
- After Triston Casas’ ‘significant’ injury, how might Red Sox fill first base?
- Red Sox’ Triston Casas has ‘significant’ knee injury, ‘was in shock,’ Alex Cora says
- Triston Casas stretchered off field with leg injury
- Red Sox rookie earns MLB honors
- Alex Cora explains why he didn’t intentionally walk Vlad Guerrero Jr. in crushing Red Sox loss
Read the original article on MassLive.
After Triston Casas’ ‘significant’ injury, how might Red Sox fill first base?
BOSTON — Details remain murky about the left leg injury suffered by Red Sox first baseman Triston Casas on Friday night, but considering he was stretched out and then taken by ambulance to a local hospital, there’s clear concern it’s serious. For the second time in as many years, the Red Sox, despite hoping for the best when it comes to Casas, are facing the possibility of missing him for an extended period of time.
“It’s a significant knee injury,” confirmed manager Alex Cora. “He’s at the hospital right now, getting more tests and all that stuff. We’ll have more information (Saturday).”
With limited depth at first base in the organization, where will the Red Sox turn at the position? Here’s a look:
Who can play first and is already on the roster?
Romy Gonzalez is Casas’ backup (and effectively his platoon partner against left-handed starters), logging 60 ⅔ innings at first already this year. The utility man replaced Casas on Friday and seems like the immediate fill-in.
Beyond Gonzalez, there’s not much in the way of options on the active roster. Connor Wong started six games at the position last year but the Red Sox didn’t like what they saw enough to mix him in there at all to start 2025. Rob Refsnyder has 227 career MLB innings at the position but not since 2020 and the Red Sox tried, with little success, to get Refsnyder some reps there at Triple-A last year. Catcher Carlos Narváez got a good bit of work at first last year at Triple-A with the Yankees (114 innings) but the Red Sox have not given him a look there at all.
David Hamilton has never played the position in the major leagues. Kristian Campbell never played there in the minors and the Red Sox want to keep developing him at second.
What about at Worcester?
There have been five different players to man first base at Triple-A Worcester this year, including two on the 40-man roster: Vaughn Grissom and Nick Sogard. Grissom, naturally a middle infielder who broke into the Red Sox organization playing exclusively second base last year, entered Friday with four games of experience at first as the club tries to build depth. Sogard, who plays all over the diamond, has seen time at five different spots for Worcester so far.
Grissom is probably the best immediate Triple-A solution as someone with a good amount of big league experience and offensive upside (entering Friday, he’s hitting .289 with three homers and an .825 OPS in Triple-A. But Sogard could be a short-term call-up option because of his familiarity with the position and ability to switch-hit.
The WooSox also have Nathan Hickey, veteran Abraham Toro and Alex Binelas as options. The versatile Toro has 365 big league games under his belt and has hit well so far this year (.917 OPS), so he could be in the mix.
The Red Sox also have veteran Yasmani Grandal at Triple-A. Could there be a complicated scenario in which he comes up as a backup catcher and either Wong or Narváez plays first?
Roman Anthony? Rafael Devers?
There are two big-name outside-the-box options that the Red Sox likely won’t consider: Roman Anthony and Rafael Devers. Moving either of them to first base would represent a major shakeup — and a departure from what the Red Sox want to do.
Anthony has never played first and the Red Sox want to keep developing him as an outfielder. Just yesterday, chief baseball officer Craig Breslow told The Boston Globe’s Alex Speier that such a move wasn’t being considered at all. Considering Anthony is just 20 and the Sox are focused on his long-term development, the scenario is a long shot at best.
“I think just given (Anthony’s) age, there’s still an opportunity for him to develop in the outfield,” Breslow said. “Until you feel like that’s in a place where there isn’t just a massive opportunity cost to taking reps away, that’s where he should be focused,” said Breslow. “And also, I think obviously, at some point he’s going to be impacting our major league team, and to throw another variable into the mix probably doesn’t make a ton of sense when that transition in and of itself can be difficult at times.
Devers, who was moved to designated hitter this year to accommodate the addition of Alex Bregman, has never played first base at any level of the professional ranks. Asking him to do so now, in the middle of a season in which he has had zero in-game defensive work, would be a tall ask. It can’t be entirely ruled out (wouldn’t Devers welcome a return to the field?) but is by no means a likely option. And it’s too early to entertain what the eventual, potential return of Masataka Yoshida could mean for the positional mix.
Any external candidates?
A year ago, when Casas tore cartilage in his rib cage on a swing in Pittsburgh on April 20, Breslow quickly sprung into action, adding two veteran first baseman in quick succession. He acquired Garrett Cooper from the Cubs and signed Dom Smith after Smith opted out of a minor league deal with Tampa Bay.
Veterans on minor league contracts are typically available around May 1. Smith is once again one of them and he’s at Triple-A with the Yankees. Mike Ford (Twins), Joey Meneses (Mets), Bligh Madris (Tigers) and even old friend Christian Arroyo (Phillies) are among the potential fits in that boat. Veteran Anthony Rizzo also remains a free agent but he went unsigned all winter, never participated in spring training and remains at home at age 35 (36 in August). He has said he doesn’t want to just sign for any amount and therefore wants fair value to play again.
More Red Sox coverage
- Red Sox’ Triston Casas has ‘significant’ knee injury, ‘was in shock,’ Alex Cora says
- Red Sox reactions: Brayan Bello shines in win overshadowed by Triston Casas’ injury
- Triston Casas stretchered off field with leg injury
- Red Sox rookie earns MLB honors
- Alex Cora explains why he didn’t intentionally walk Vlad Guerrero Jr. in crushing Red Sox loss
Read the original article on MassLive.
“I always speak about” – Paul Merson makes Chelsea vs Liverpool prediction
Chelsea are gearing up for a huge clash with Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Sunday and Paul Merson has given his prediction.
With just four games remaining the race for the Champions League looks set to go right to the wire with just four points separating third and sixth, although Manchester City in third have played a game more.
Chelsea were handed a boost after Brentford beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 on Thursday night and the Blues are now outright fifth on goal difference.
Merson makes Chelsea vs Liverpool prediction
The Blues have been handed a potential boost ahead of the fixture after Arne Slot confirmed he would rotate his side.
Despite struggling for large parts of the second half of the season, Chelsea still find themselves in the race for Champions League football, and the game with Liverpool has been described as “huge” by former Blue Joe Cole.
Former Arsenal star Merson has also had his say on the weekend’s big game and has given his prediction for the clash.
“I always speak about timings in football, and there is no better time to play Liverpool!,” he told Sportskeeda.
“Three weeks ago, I would have said this would have been a tough game, but now Chelsea have a chance of winning it.
“I say that because Liverpool have just won the league and will have been out partying. I’m not saying Liverpool players won’t be professional enough.
“But even if you take your foot off the gas five per cent in this league, you will get punished.”
Chelsea will be hoping that is the case and the fact Liverpool have wrapped the title up certainly makes their task slightly easier.
Blues face difficult run in
Champions League qualification is still in Chelsea’s hands although they face the toughest run-in out of the teams in contention.
After the Liverpool game, Chelsea face a trip to Newcastle before hosting Manchester United and finishing the season away at Nottingham Forest.
It’s very much in Chelsea’s hands and they know if they win all their games they will play Champions League football next season.
However, John Obi Mikel had admitted he’s worried about the run in, and Chelsea are likely going to need to do something they’ve not managed for a while, which is to win a big away game.
Oregon State Baseball: Beavers Get Back On Track, Take Down Hawaii 11-4
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HONOLULU – Wilson Weber doubled twice and he and AJ Singer drove in three runs apiece as seventh-ranked Oregon State defeated Hawai’i, 11-4, Friday night at Les Murakami Stadium.
Singer hit a sacrifice fly in the first and doubled in a pair in the Beavers’ four-run second inning as OSU jumped out to a 6-0 lead over Hawai’i.
Weber, meanwhile, doubled in three on an 0-2 double in the fourth inning. He doubled again in the eighth and scored when Canon Reeder singled to center.
The Beavers’ offense rapped out 15 hits in the win, with eight of Oregon State’s (33-11) nine starters recording at least one hit. Weber, Singer, Reeder, Gavin Turley, Aiva Arquette, Jacob Krieg and Trent Caraway all recording two.
Six of the 15 hits went for two bases, tying a season-high.
A wild pitch and sac fly by Singer got the Beavers two in the first. OSU added to the lead on RBI by Arquette and Turley in the second before Singer drilled his double off the wall later in the inning.
Weber pushed the lead to 9-2 with his first double in the fourth. OSU, up 9-4 an inning later, reached double figures on a Hawai’i (28-15) balk.
Eric Segura made his second start in his 12th appearance this season and the righty scattered four runs on three hits and three walks while striking out five. He got the win, pushing him to 7-1 on the year and 13-2 for his Oregon State career.
The Beavers chased Hawai’i starter Itsuki Takemoto after four innings. The right-hander allowed nine hits and nine runs in four innings of work, and took the loss, dropping to 2-5 on the year.
Next Up
The teams continue the four-game series Saturday at Les Murakami Stadium. First pitch is slated for 6:35 p.m. PT (9:35 p.m. in Hawai’i). The game will not be live streamed; listen in to Mike Parker on the Beaver Sports Network and Varsity Network Radio.
Oregon State Notes
• Aiva Arquette batted in the leadoff spot for the first time this season. He’s the third Beaver to do so this season, joining Easton Talt (25 games) and Trent Caraway (18 games).
• Gavin Turley also batted second for the first time. Aiva Arquette had batted second in the first 43 games of the season.
• Jacob Krieg stole his first career base in the fourth inning.
• The meeting was the first between the teams since 2010 when Oregon State won 3-of-4 in Honolulu.
• Dallas Macias recorded his first multiple-hit game since April 5 against UC Irvine.
• Easton Talt drew two walks, giving him 54 for the season. That moves him into seventh for a single season at OSU.
• Gavin Turley’s lone RBI gave him 174 for his career, tying him with Adley Rutschman (2017-19) for second in the Oregon State record books.
• The Beavers improved to 33-11 for the second consecutive season.
• Oregon State improved to 11-2 versus Big West Conference foes this season.
• The Beavers are now 11-6 in true road games and 20-9 away from home this year.
• OSU improved to 27-6 when scoring first.
• The Beavers are 12-0 this season when scoring in double figures and 80-8 under Mitch Canham.
• OSU is 28-1 when leading after eight innings.
OSU Athletics
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Lautaro Martinez: what Inter’s record without their captain reveals ahead of Barcelona
With Lautaro Martinez sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Inter are likely to face a decisive Champions League semi-final second leg against Barcelona without their captain and top scorer. Yet, the statistics offer Simone Inzaghi’s side good reason to stay optimistic.
While Martinez has been a key figure this season—scoring 21 goals and providing six assists in 47 appearances—the Nerazzurri remain unbeaten in his absence.
Inter’s unbeaten run without Lautaro Martinez tested ahead of Barcelona clash
The 27-year-old has missed six matches this campaign, either remaining on the bench for the full 90 minutes or being ruled out due to injury. Inter won five of those games and drew the other, a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final against Milan.
Those five victories saw Inter score 13 goals and concede just twice, including a 5-0 rout of Verona—the very team they face in Serie A today.
However, Martinez has been instrumental in Inter’s Champions League run, notching eight goals in 12 appearances, including strikes in five consecutive matches and both legs of the quarter-final against Bayern Munich.
Meanwhile, Barcelona are hopeful of having Robert Lewandowski back for Tuesday’s clash at San Siro, after the Polish striker missed the first leg due to a muscular problem.
NHL Delivers First Official Update on Maple Leafs-Panthers Series
The NHL has officially announced the date for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference second-round series between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers.
The game will be played on Monday, May 5, at 8 p.m. ET in Toronto. The rest of the series schedule has yet to be announced.
Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun reported the update on X, writing, “NHL officially announces Game 1 of #Leafs/Panthers on Monday night at 8 p.m. in Toronto. Remainder of schedule to be announced.”
Meanwhile, David Alter of The Hockey News also confirmed the date and timing with a screenshot of a Sportsnet’s on-air graphic, adding, “Leafs and Panthers Game 1 set for 8pm Monday. Going to be a late one.”
NHL officially announces Game 1 of #Leafs/Panthers on Monday night at 8 p.m. in Toronto. Remainder of schedule to be announced.
— Terry Koshan 🇺🇦 (@koshtorontosun) May 3, 2025
Toronto advanced after defeating the Ottawa Senators in six games, while the Panthers eliminated the Tampa Bay Lightning in five.
Toronto enters as Atlantic Division champions with home-ice advantage. Florida, however, dominated the Leafs in the regular season, taking three of four games between both teams.
This matchup marks the second playoff meeting between the two franchises in the past three years. Florida won the 2023 series in five games on their way to the Stanley Cup Final.
Leafs and Panthers Game 1 set for 8pm Monday. Going to be a late one pic.twitter.com/gCega9Npce
— David Alter (@dalter) May 3, 2025
Monday’s opener will see several familiar faces on both benches following pre-season transactions involving both franchises.
Toronto’s Anthony Stolarz, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and Steven Lorentz were all part of Florida’s Cup-winning roster last season before signing with the Leafs in free agency.
“They have played very, very well,” Panthers coach Paul Maurice said. “Those guys were a big part of it, and that story gets to endure in our locker room for the men who played. So, they still are a big part of that story.”
Meanwhile, Leafs coach Craig Berube weighed in on the challenge ahead of his team.
“They’re obviously the Stanley Cup Champs, so they’re a very good team,” Berube said. “They’ve got a lot of good pieces, they’re hard to play against. You know, I could keep going on and on, but it’s not the time right now.”
Related: Brady Tkachuk's 'Devastating' Message After Maple Leafs Eliminate Senators
Related: Auston Matthews Reveals Handshake Line Words To Brady Tkachuk
Indian golfer Lahiri's bad luck at a South Korean LIV tournament leads to 7-over 79
INCHEON, South Korea (AP) — Anirban Lahiri had the worst kind of luck Saturday during the second round of an LIV tournament at the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club in Incheon, South Korea.
The Indian golfer's approach to the ninth hole hit the flag and rebounded straight across the green and into the water. He took a double-bogey six.
That stroke of misfortune appeared to affect him on the ensuing holes, where he had a triple-bogey seven on the 10th hole and another double-bogey six on the 12th en route to a 7-over 79.
He had birdied three straight holes ahead of the calamity on the ninth.
Bryson DeChambeau shot 66 Saturday and had a four-stroke lead over Richard Bland (69) heading into Sunday's final round.
___
AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf
Who are jockeys in 2025 Kentucky Derby? Records, Run for the Roses horse for all 19 riders
If odds are any indication, the famed rose garland for the 151st Kentucky Derby will most likely go to a first-time winner.
Five jockeys are projected to make their Derby debut on May 3: Luan Machado (Final Gambit), Juan Vargas (Coal Battle), Nik Juarez (American Promise), Joao Moreira (Luxor Cafe) and Joseph Ramos (Flying Mohawk). Ten others are back looking for their first victory.
But one especially experienced rider is poised to make history with a win this year.
Brian Hernandez Jr. is back after riding Mystik Dan to victory in 2024, meaning he would become the seventh jockey to win consecutive Kentucky Derbies should he and Burnham Square emerge victorious.
Three other past winners, Joel Rosario, Flavien Prat and Javier Castellano, will ride as well.
Here’s a look at the field as it currently stands for Derby 151:
Jose Ortiz
Kentucky Derby horse: Sandman
Jose Ortiz is making his 10th Derby start and seeking his first win after placing second in 2018 with Good Magic and third in 2019 with Tacitus. The 31-year-old Puerto Rican jockey ranked in the top four in earnings (4th) and wins (2nd) in 2024, according to his Equibase profile. He has 98 wins and 123 other top-three finishes across 407 starts in 2025.
Brian Hernandez Jr.
Kentucky Derby horse: Burnham Square
Hernandez Jr. is back after riding Mystik Dan to victory in 2024 and looking to become the seventh jockey to win consecutive Kentucky Derbies (joining Isaac Murphy 1890-91, Jimmy Winkfield 1901-02, Ron Turcotte 1972-73, Eddie Delahoussaye 1982-83, Calvin Borel 2009-10 and Victor Espinoza 2014-15). Hernandez has 43 first-place finishes and 60 other top-three finishes across 249 starts this year.
Umberto Rispoli
Kentucky Derby horse: Journalism
Derby 151 is Umberto Rispoli’s third. He finished ninth with Endlessly last year — Rispoli’s best Derby showing. The 36-year-old Italian jockey has 44 wins and 64 other top-three finishes across 197 starts in 2025.
Joel Rosario
Kentucky Derby horse: Tiztastic
Rosario is making his 14th Derby start. He won with Orb in 2013. The 40-year-old Dominican jockey has 27 wins and 43 other top-three finishes across 193 starts in 2025.
Julien Leparoux
Kentucky Derby horse: Render Judgment
Leparoux is seeking his first victory in his 15th Derby start. The 41-year-old French jockey became the fourth to eclipse 500 wins at Keeneland in 2021 and is the track's leading active rider by victories. Leparoux has 23 victories and 44 other top-three finishes across 151 starts in 2025.
Junior Alvarado
Kentucky Derby horse: Sovereignty
Derby 151 is Junior Alvarado’s sixth. He’s looking for his first win after finishing fourth with Mohaymen in 2016 and sixth with Resilience in 2024. The 38-year-old Venezuelan jockey has 40 wins and 66 other top-three finishes across 254 starts in 2025.
Luan Machado
Kentucky Derby horse: Final Gambit
Machado is making his Kentucky Derby debut this year with Final Gambit. Machado was suspended twice in Kentucky last year, including once for four days from Churchill Downs and fined $1,000 last year after “easing up on his mount approaching the finish without adequate cause” while riding Hold My Bourbon on Nov. 28. Owner Gray V Train Racing and breeder Westbrook Stables filed a lawsuit in Jefferson Circuit Court against Machado for breaching his contract and showing negligence as a professional jockey by failing to ride Hold My Bourbon “with full effort.” The Brazilian jockey has 58 wins and 104 other top-three finishes across 377 starts in 2025.
Juan Vargas
Kentucky Derby horse: Coal Battle
Vargas is making his Derby debut. The 43-year-old Peruvian jockey has been aboard Coal Battle for seven of his eight career starts. In 2025, they’ve won two of their three races together, including the Arkansas Derby. Vargas has 14 wins and 60 other top-three finishes across 242 starts this year.
Jareth Loveberry
Kentucky Derby horse: Chunk of Gold
Jareth Loveberry returns to the Derby after finishing second with Two Phil’s in 2023. The 37-year-old grew up on a farm in rural Mount Pleasant, Michigan, and began riding in the early 2000s. Loveberry has 43 wins and 77 other top-three finishes across 308 starts this year.
Martin Garcia
Kentucky Derby horse: Citizen Bull
Martin Garcia is returning for his fifth Kentucky Derby and first since 2015. Ten years ago, Garcia finished third — his best showing — with Dortmund. The 40-year-old Mexican jockey has two wins and 10 other top-three finishes across 46 starts in 2025.
Manny Franco
Kentucky Derby horse: East Avenue
Manny Franco is making his sixth Kentucky Derby start with East Avenue. Franco’s best finish came aboard Tiz the Law in 2020 (2nd), but Franco most recently finished fifth with Hit Show in 2023. The 30-year-old Puerto Rican jockey has 91 wins and 158 other top-three finishes across 407 starts in 2025.
Irad Ortiz Jr.
Kentucky Derby horse: Publisher
Irad Ortiz Jr. is making his ninth Derby start aboard Publisher. Ortiz most recently finished 13th with Domestic Product (2024), but his best finish came with Improbable in 2019 (fourth). The 32-year-old Puerto Rican jockey has 105 wins and 180 other top-three finishes across 510 starts in 2025.
Nik Juarez
Kentucky Derby horse: American Promise
Juarez is making his Kentucky Derby debut aboard American Promise. The 31-year-old describes himself as a “fourth generation” rider. His mom, Carol Linton, galloped horses and rode until she was about 7 ½ months pregnant, and dad Calixto won a race at Delaware Park the day Juarez was born. He has 15 wins and 32 other top-three finishes across 136 starts this year.
Joseph Ramos
Kentucky Derby horse: Flying Mohawk
Ramos is participating in his first Kentucky Derby with Flying Mohawk. Ramos grew up as one of four siblings in Puerto Rico, where his high school math teacher was also a jockey agent and showed Ramos how to apply for jockey school. He has 50 wins and 63 other top-three finishes across 263 starts in 2025.
Flavien Prat
Kentucky Derby horse: Baeza
Flavien Prat, winner of the 2019 Kentucky Derby with Country House, will participate in his eighth Run for the Roses aboard Baeza. This is Prat’s fifth consecutive Derby. The 32-year-old French jockey has 85 wins and 109 other top-three finishes across 313 starts in 2025.
Javier Castellano
Kentucky Derby horse: Owen Almighty
Castellano is making his 17th Kentucky Derby start with Owen Almighty and first since his victory with Mage in 2023. He comes from a racing family, as his father, uncle and brother Abel Jr. have all worked as jockeys. The 47-year-old Venezuelan jockey has 35 wins and 80 other top-three finishes across 272 starts in 2025.
Joao Moreira
Kentucky Derby horse: Luxor Cafe
Moreira will make his Kentucky Derby debut on Luxor Cafe, after they won the Fukuryu Stakes in March. The 41-year-old Brazilian jockey has four wins and two third-place finishes across eight starts in 2025.
Christophe Lemaire
Kentucky Derby horse: Admire Daytona
Christophe Lemaire will participate in his third Kentucky Derby after he and Admire Daytona won the UAE Derby on April 5. The 45-year-old French jockey has one other win across six starts in 2025 and a third-place finish, all in Japan. Lemaire previously finished sixth aboard Derma Sotogake in 2023 and 13th aboard Crown Pride in 2022.
Luis Saez
Kentucky Derby horse:Neoequos
Luis Saez will make his 12th Kentucky Derby start aboard Neoequos. Saez's best finish came with Essential Quality (third) in 2021. The 32-year-old Panamanian jockey has 92 wins and 165 other top-three finishes across 518 starts in 2025.
Reach college sports enterprise reporter Payton Titus at ptitus@gannett.com, and follow her on X @petitus25.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky Derby 2025 jockeys for today's race at Churchill Downs
Record chasers and rookies lace up for Belfast race
As the 43rd Belfast City Marathon approaches, the city buzzes with energy, excitement, and the sound of running shoes hitting the pavements.
From elite runners, to first-timers just hoping to cross the finish line on Sunday, thousands of people are gearing up for one of Northern Ireland's most celebrated sporting events.
For some, it's a chance to compete at the highest level; for others, it's about personal achievement or raising money for a cause.
BBC News NI spoke to four people taking part this weekend.
'If I can do it anyone can'
Elaine McAnulty, from County Down, hopes to become the first woman in Northern Ireland to complete 400 official marathons, marking the milestone on the streets of Belfast, where her running journey first began, and cementing her name in history.
"It's a special achievement, but I believe if I can do it anyone can," she told BBC News NI.
"I don't consider myself a runner, it's a hobby for me and I hope to continue for as long as I am able and enjoying it."
The 54-year-old Banbridge woman said she was "bitten by the running bug" 10 years ago and she enjoys the "real adrenaline rush" when crossing the finish line.
'Enjoy every minute'
From Belfast to the Bahamas, Elaine has travelled the world competing in marathons, including four of the six majors.
Listed in the prestigious World Mega Marathon Rankings as the 118th female marathon runner in the world, Elaine's next big goal is to break into the top 100.
"As someone who isn't a professional athlete and juggling a busy job it would prove that anything is achievable... If it happens, it happens, I'm not putting any pressure on myself."
Elaine plans to celebrate this weekend with "a big mug of tea" at the finish line.
As a seasoned marathon runner, Elaine's advice to newcomers is: "Put your head down, get your shoes on and get on with it. Don't leave it too long before signing up to do your next one and enjoy every minute of it."
'It's probably changed my life'
Self-confessed reluctant runner Scott Lawther is also taking to the streets this Sunday in his bid to complete a personal challenge.
He started running last June, with weight loss as an initial motivation, and regularly shares his progress with thousands of followers on TikTok in an effort to hold himself accountable.
"I really didn't enjoy it that much but I just persevered, everything I heard was, 'you have to break through the barrier'. It took about eight weeks before it actually became enjoyable," he said.
"In the build up to a marathon, you're meant to do a fair bit of volume, there's definitely times where I could not be bothered at all, but there's also runs where you feel on top of the world."
Approaching the race, Scott said is excited and anxious.
"Part of the nerves is that I've put myself out there to the world," he said.
"I am the definition of the least runner-type person, now after doing it for a year I love it.
"It's a bit cringey but it probably has changed my life in a way. It does suck absolutely at times, but it has lots of perks."
Aiming for a time of under four hours on Sunday, Scott is already looking forward to next year when he hopes to compete in the London marathon.
His advice for aspiring athletes? "Take it slow, build it up and if you're consistent you'll reap the rewards of it."
'It's not about disability - it's about her ability'
Also preparing for Sunday's race is Derek Goodfellow from Belfast, who aims to complete the marathon alongside his daughter, Katie-Louise.
The pair returned this week from Manchester, completing the full marathon in just under five hours, despite "phenomenally warm" conditions.
"We ran with Jessica and her daughter Darcy," Derek said. "We managed to cross the finish line together, and now they're flying over to stay with us and run Belfast," he said.
Derek started running in 2013, weighing 20 stone at the time, and has since competed in numerous parkruns and marathons.
After a few years off due to injury, he knew he "had the bug back" when his son joined him for a run two years ago.
"Week three of trying to go, Katie-Louise decided 'no, I want to go too', so we joined junior parkrun as a family," he said.
"It quickly became apparent Katie-Louise loved it as much as anyone else.
"For Katie-Louise it's the pure sense of inclusion and acceptance for who she is, despite her disability - it's not about disability, it's about her ability."
Supported by Mallusk Harriers and Monkstown Spartans run clubs, who started a major fundraising drive, the family soon purchased a specialist running chair for Katie-Louise.
"The running community is just absolutely amazing, the support, the encouragement," he said.
"Katie-Louise loves running around the streets of Belfast. We came out of the Waterworks last year and there was a woman struggling at mile 20, Katie-Louise must have sensed it, she held her hand until mile 21 and just looked up and gave her a smile.
You can get information on the Belfast Marathon here.
BBC Northern Ireland will have live coverage of this year's Belfast City Marathon across BBC iPlayer, BBC Sounds, BBC Radio Ulster and on the BBC Sport NI website.
Xabi Alonso’s influence could lead Bayer Leverkusen captain to Real Madrid
According to a fresh report from The Athletic, Real Madrid’s chances of landing Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah could receive a significant boost if Xabi Alonso is named the next manager of Los Blancos.
The Leverkusen boss, who has enjoyed a stellar tenure in Germany, remains a serious candidate to take over from Carlo Ancelotti, especially if the Italian follows through with his expected move to manage Brazil.
Amidst this, Real Madrid are also preparing to reshuffle their central defence after a string of setbacks. Eder Militao has endured two serious ACL injuries, while Antonio Rudiger recently underwent surgery.
Add to that the likely departure of David Alaba, whose persistent fitness issues and hefty wages have reportedly prompted the club to consider moving him on, and the need for reinforcements becomes all the more pressing.
Tah fits the bill for Real Madrid
In this context, Tah has re-emerged as a viable and increasingly attractive option.
The outlet mentions that while Madrid turned down the chance to sign him when he was first offered earlier in the season, after having also discussed terms with Barcelona, his situation has changed significantly.
Tah is out of contract in June and has made it clear he will not renew with Bayer Leverkusen, effectively making him a free agent.
The real twist, however, is the Alonso factor. Tah has thrived under the Spaniard’s guidance in Leverkusen’s title-winning campaign, and the connection between the two could play a crucial role.
If Alonso does take the reins at the Santiago Bernabeu, he is expected to push for the signing of key players he trusts, and Tah is one of them.
Still, the race is far from straightforward. Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester United are all keeping tabs on the German international. But Real Madrid could gain a major edge through Alonso’s potential appointment.
With financial concerns around Alaba and lingering doubts over Militao’s and Rudiger’s long-term reliability, Tah would offer Madrid a more stable and cost-effective alternative in defence.
Max Verstappen Says Kelly Piquet’s Daughter Helped Him Prepare for Baby Lily
Max Verstappen may be a four-time Formula 1 World Champion, but nothing could truly prepare him for the thrill and challenge of fatherhood—except, perhaps, being a stepdad first. Verstappen opened up about how the transition to being a father felt natural, thanks to the bond he had already built with Kelly’s daughter from a previous relationship.
“Well, I already have some experience that helped me prepare for my own child,” Verstappen shared when asked whether he turned to parenting books on diaper-changing drills. “My girlfriend already has a daughter(Penelope) and I saw her grow up since she was 1 year old, and that helped a lot to prepare for your own child.”
It’s a rare and genuine insight from the usually reserved Dutchman, who often keeps his private life guarded. But now, in this new chapter of fatherhood, Verstappen seems to be enjoying the balance between his professional and personal worlds.
During a light-hearted moment, Max was asked if he planned to keep gaming despite his new responsibilities. His answer was pure Verstappen: “I think that will work! Who knows, maybe in the future we can do it together?” It’s a glimpse into the family life he’s building, one where sim racing and shared joy may go hand in hand.
Max’s emotional maturity has shone through across multiple interviews in Miami, where he returned to paddock duties after missing media day for his daughter’s birth.
His calm, collected demeanor and willingness to talk about his blended family show that, beyond the cockpit, Verstappen is evolving into a man shaped by more than just race wins.
“you’re still gonna find gaming time?”
— nini (@SCUDERIAFEMBOY) May 2, 2025
max: “i think that will work! who knows maybe in the future you know we can do it together?”
lily iracing goat i see the vision pic.twitter.com/WisGV4acc4
As F1’s most dominant force on track, it seems Verstappen is just as ready for the challenges off it. And if Lily inherits any of her father’s precision and determination—or picks up a controller in a few years—watch out world, the next Verstappen might be ready to play.
Related: Max Verstappen Opens Up About Fatherhood After Welcoming Baby Lily With Kelly Piquet
What time is the Kentucky Derby? Here is what to know about watching the event
The excitement is mounting as the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby is just four days away.
Billed as "the most exciting two minutes in sports," the Kentucky Derby covers 1¼ miles and is the first leg of American horse racing's Triple Crown.
Held at historic Churchill Downs in Louisville, the Kentucky Derby and its sibling race, the Kentucky Oaks, have been run every year since their inception in 1875.
The 20 three-year-olds in this year's field will look to follow in the hoofsteps of 2024 winner Mystik Dan, who edged Sierra Leone by less than a nose at the finish.
Here's everything you need to know about this year's "Run for the Roses."
What time is the 2025 Kentucky Derby?
The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby will be held Saturday, May 3 as part of a 14-race card at Churchill Downs.
Post time is 7:02 p.m. ET.
Kentucky Derby 2025: TV, streaming and how to watch
- When: Saturday, May 3
- Coverage starts: 2:30 p.m. ET
- Post time: 7:02 p.m. ET
- Where: Churchill Downs (Louisville, Kentucky)
- Cable TV: NBC, USA Network
- Streaming: Fubo, Peacock
Which horses are in the field for the 2025 Kentucky Derby?
Post positions were drawn Saturday for the race. Here's where the horses will start, along with their trainer, jockey and current odds:
1. Citizen Bull, Bob Baffert, Martin Garcia, 17-1
2. Neoequos, Saffie Joseph Jr., Luis Saez, 57-1
3. Final Gambit, Brad Cox, Luan Machado, 17-1
4. Rodriguez, Bob Baffert, Mike Smith, 8-1 — SCRATCHED
5. American Promise, D. Wayne Lukas, Nik Juarez, 13-1
6. Admire Daytona, Yukihiro Kato, Christophe Lemaire, 39-1
7. Luxor Cafe, Noriyuki Hori, Joao Moreira, 15-1
8. Journalism, Michael McCarthy, Umberto Rispoli, 7-2
9. Burnham Square, Ian Wilkes, Brian Hernandez Jr., 19-1
10. Grande, Todd Pletcher, John Velazquez, 19-1 — SCRATCHED
11. Flying Mohawk, Whit Beckman, Joe Ramos, 36-1
12. East Avenue, Brendan Walsh, Manny Franco, 33-1
13. Publisher, Steve Asmussen, Irad Ortiz Jr., 30-1
14. Tiztastic, Steve Asmussen, Joel Rosario, 20-1
15. Render Judgment, Kenny McPeek, Julien Leparoux, 13-1
16. Coal Battle, Lonnie Briley, Juan Vargas, 30-1
17. Sandman, Mark Casse, Jose Ortiz, 5-1
18. Sovereignty, Bill Mott, Junior Alvarado, 11-1
19. Chunk of Gold, Ethan West, Jareth Loveberry, 33-1
20. Owen Almighty, Brian Lynch, Javier Castellano, 44-1
21. Baeza, John Shirreffs, Flavien Prat, 50-1
This article originally appeared on York Daily Record: 2025 Kentucky Derby: Time, post positions, how to watch
Warriors can't answer Rockets in cold Game 6 loss, 115-107
For the second straight contest, the Golden State Warriors have had the chance to eliminate the Houston Rockets and advance to the second round of the postseason. Yet, the Rockets won't go away that easily. After suffering a blowout loss in Game 5 on Wednesday, the Warriors went ice cold at Chase Center on Friday in Game 6.
With the Warriors struggling to find the bottom of the net, the Rockets did enough to hold on for a 115-107 win on Friday night in San Francisco. After falling down 3-1, the Rockets have ripped off a pair of impressive wins in elimination games to force a Game 7 on Sunday night back in Houston.
For the third straight game, the Warriors had no answer for Rockets veteran guard Fred VanVleet. VanVleet led the Rockets with 29 points on 7-of-13 shooting from the field with six made 3-pointers. VanVleet has scored 25 or more points in three consecutive games with at least four made triples in each game.
The frontcourt duo of Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams continued to bother the Warriors, combining for 38 points and 19 rebounds in Game 6.
While the Rockets led for most of the game, the Warriors were able to cut Houston's advantage down to two points at the end of the third quarter.
Yet, a disastrous fourth quarter for the Warriors allowed the Rockets to coast to the finish. Despote leading the Warriors with 29 points in the game, Steph Curry tallied three points on 1-of-7 shooting from the field in the fourth quarter.
Jimmy Butler added a near triple-double performance with 27 points on 7-of-17 shooting from the field to go along with nine boards and eight assists in 42 minutes.
Moses Moody (13) and Brandin Podziemski (10) were the only other Warriors to score in double figures.
Draymond Green, Buddy Hield, Gary Payton II and Quinten Post combined for 7-of-23 shooting from the field. Hield finished the game scoreless, missing all four of his attempts from the floor in 17 minutes.
The Warriors will return to Houston for a win-or-go-home Game 7 on Sunday.
This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Warriors can't answer Rockets in cold Game 6 loss, 115-107
How a former MLB pitcher has helped Dunlap's Division-I baseball recruit
DUNLAP — Davis Weeks has altered his entire approach to the game of baseball.
The Dunlap senior admits to being ‘slow in the box’ last season, accumulating two strikes all too often. However, a rigorous offseason of hard work has Weeks in perpetual attack mode.
“Now, I’m going up there,” the 6-foot-2, 200-pound right-hander said, “and being aggressive, hitting when I see (the ball).”
Weeks is more than just putting the bat on the ball.
More: How this two-way Dunlap baseball player landed in the Big Ten
During the 14 games in April, the Michigan State signee posted a .605 batting average on 26 hits with five doubles, a triple, two home runs and 19 RBIs. He scored 22 runs, drew eight walks, struck out just three times and stole 16 bases.
Dunlap coach Eric Stone hasn’t seen that type of production from a player since his days at Metamora. He compares the offensive streak Weeks has been on to that of the current pro ball player Ethan Skender, the 2015 Journal Star player of the year.
“When (Davis) gets out, you're surprised,” Stone said; “I haven't seen anything like the stretch that Davis is on right now since that time. He's just continued to blossom … he's been working out relentlessly he's always working on his craft whether it's on the baseball field or in a gym or swinging the bat.”
Currently, Weeks is honing his craft on the mound for the Eagles, who are 16-5 overall and at 6-1 are a game out of first place in the Mid-Illini Conference through Thursday. He’ll be a two-way player at Michigan State, meaning he’ll pitch as well as play in the field.
And Weeks has a secret weapon to help with his pitching.
“He just helps with visuals,” Weeks said, “like if I miss the spot or he sees something that I need to work on, he'll communicate that with me. He just helps a lot with my mechanics but usually that's to do my thing.
“It's been really big.”
‘He’ is Brian Shouse.
The former Major League pitcher and pitching coach is on the Eagles coaching staff. He’s imparting his wisdom following a career that included 467 MLB pitching appearances from 1993 to 2009 for Pittsburgh, Boston, Kansas City, Texas, Milwaukee and Tampa Bay.
“It’s a steady progression (of his development),” Shouse said, “which is what we always want. … Here’s the ceiling. Here’s the limit of what we think he can or can’t do. He’s been able to take that and apply a lot of things we’ve talked about and what he’s done and what he feels.”
Shouse says Weeks has always relied on his fastball that sits around 90-92 MPH and has topped out at 93 MPH. But Weeks, who is 3-2 with 49 strikeouts and a 1.98 ERA in 28.1 innings, utilizing his secondary pitches has come as a bit of a challenge to him.
That’s where Shouse has seen the most improvement.
“The changeup and breaking ball,” the Bradley baseball hall of famer said, “have both been very consistent and better. He’s always had a decent feel for the changeup. He’s using it more and more.
“… He’s done a great job. He’s knowledgeable of the game and very good at listening and applying and trying to understand the process of what we’re trying to do. … I think there’s still a little bit higher ceiling for him with the pitching part.”
Now, Weeks is looking to continue the success of last season. The Eagles won 28 games, while sharing the Mid-Illini Conference title with East Peoria
Dunlap also claimed a Class 3A regional championship for the first time since 2019.
“I think our potential has grown a ton,” Weeks said, noting a slow start to the season. “I see this team going and making a deep run, possibly even making it to Joliet (for the state finals). I know that's our goal and I think we can do it.
“We've been playing really well recently.”
Adam Duvall is a Journal Star sports reporter. Email him at aduvall@pjstar.com. Follow him on Twitter @AdamDuvall.
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: IHSA baseball: Dunlap senior Davis Weeks, Michigan State recruit
Francis Ngannou releases statement on motorcycle crash which killed 17-year-old girl
Francis Ngannou has released a statement on the “heartbreaking” death of a 17-year-old girl in Cameroon after he struck her with his motorcycle.
The MMA and boxing star was riding through the city of Yaounde over the Easter weekend when he hit a pedestrian, named as Ntsama Brigitte Manuella, according to reports in the local media. He rushed her to Yaounde General Hospital and paid for her medical treatment, but she did not survive her injuries.
In a statement obtained by TMZ Sports, Ngannou said: “From the very beginning, I have been by the family’s side, offering support, comfort, and deepest condolences during this time. I’ve met with them privately to share in their grief, and I will continue to stand with them every step of the way.”
Ngannou did not explain any details of the incident, which is being investigated by police.
He added: “I carry their pain with me, and my unwavering thoughts and support remain with them as they face this heartbreaking loss.”
Ngannou, a former UFC champion, made his boxing debut in October 2023 as he took on Tyson Fury. The Cameroonian dropped Fury before losing a controversial decision, failing to take the WBC heavyweight title from the Briton.
Then, in March 2024, Ngannou had a very different experience against former champion Anthony Joshua, suffering three knockdowns in a second-round loss.
Ngannou, 38, then returned to mixed martial arts in October, stopping Renan Ferreira in round one to become the PFL Super Fights heavyweight champion – almost three years after vacating the UFC title.
After beating Ferreira, Ngannou dedicated the win to his late son Kobe, who died at just 15 months old in 2024.
“The past two days were very tough, full of emotion, I couldn’t do anything without thinking about it [Kobe’s passing],” Ngannou said. “I tried to stay strong and tell myself to do everything to keep moving but it’s hard. It’s just hard.
“I only did this fight because of him. I wanted to fight for him... I hope they can remember his name, because without Kobe, we wouldn’t be here tonight, I wouldn’t have fought.”
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