My neighbor came home drunk; he has been knocking on his own door for over two hours now, and he lives alone! Should I go tell him that he's not at home?
Participation in an online world will simultaneously be participation in an online economy. The Creator Economy will no longer be an isolated idea operating within limited infrastructure. Monetization models will be a part of everyday activities and infrastructures. #cent #sapphirecrypto
Today seems to be a Monday or start of the week with some green candles. I expected more for the weekend, I hope that during this week my expectations will be met.
Great to see that with the new subscriptions the services reached 106, thus a revenue stream of $530. That is quite encouraging and I am sure that in future new subscriptions will pop up and the offered perks will become creative.
Looking at the 2025 list of newcomers and holdovers being voted on to make it into the MLB Hall of Fame
In my opinion, Ichiro is an automatic no-brainer on the list. Hands down. Not really seeing anyone else that is a slam dunk especially if they are associated with the steroid era and was accused of using it.
CC and/or King Felix for the newcomers wouldn't surprise me and on the holdovers Beltran and/or Hunter wouldn't shock me.
But if I had to pick only one - Ichiro would be the unanimous vote.
Here is an overview of the players on the 2025 MLB Hall of Fame ballot, which includes both newcomers and holdovers:
Ichiro Suzuki: Widely expected to be a strong candidate for unanimous selection, known for his hitting prowess, having over 3,000 hits in MLB despite starting his career late in the U.S., and his impact on baseball across continents.
CC Sabathia: A Cy Young Award winner with over 250 wins and 3,000 strikeouts, Sabathia had a significant impact both in the regular season and playoffs.
Félix Hernández: Known for his dominant period from 2009-15, including winning the Cy Young Award in 2010, but his career was cut short by injuries.
Dustin Pedroia: An MVP winner and key player in the Boston Red Sox's successful era, despite injuries limiting his later years.
Ian Kinsler: A versatile second baseman with multiple All-Star appearances known for his power-speed combination.
Russell Martin: Recognized for his defensive skills at catcher and his contributions to several competitive teams.
Brian McCann: A six-time Silver Slugger winner at catcher, though his offensive reputation might overshadow his defensive contributions in voter eyes.
Troy Tulowitzki: An exceptional shortstop when healthy, known for his hitting and defense, but his career was injury-shortened.
Ben Zobrist: Noted for his utility role, playing multiple positions effectively, though his case for the Hall might be less straightforward due to his unique career path.
Billy Wagner: This is his 10th and final year on the ballot. Wagner, a dominant closer, fell just five votes short in 2024.
Carlos Beltrán: Continues to gain support, potentially due to his all-around skills, but his association with the 2017 Astros sign-stealing scandal has impacted his vote counts.
Andruw Jones: Has seen his vote percentage increase significantly, recognized for his defensive excellence and power at center field.
Bobby Abreu: A consistent performer with a solid on-base percentage and stolen base totals, though not yet reaching the induction threshold.
Alex Rodriguez: Despite his impressive statistics, his past with PEDs continues to affect his voting results.
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Aroldis Chapman, the 36-year-old flamethrower, has been defying his age with the sheer velocity he can still muster from his left arm. In a recent outing, he reached a staggering 104 mph on the radar gun, leaving onlookers in awe.
"That might be the fastest pitch I've ever seen in person right there," the commentator exclaimed, as Chapman's 104 mph fastball blew past the hitter.
This blistering heater is not an isolated incident for Chapman. Throughout his career, he has consistently been one of the hardest throwers in the game, regularly reaching triple digits on the radar. His ability to maintain this level of velocity, even at 36 years old, is a testament to his exceptional physical conditioning and pitching prowess.
"He's 36 years old, he's just defying his age with the velocity that he can still muster out of that left arm of his," the commentator noted, marveling at Chapman's continued dominance.
The sheer power and precision of Chapman's fastball were on full display, as he struck out hitter after hitter with his blazing heat. The commentator couldn't help but express his excitement, describing the experience as "what baseball is all about."
"105 on the inner edge," the commentator announced, as Chapman's pitch reached an astounding 105 mph.
But the highlight of the day came when Chapman reached back and unleashed a 105.5 mph fastball, leaving the crowd in disbelief. This was a truly remarkable feat, showcasing the incredible physical abilities of this veteran pitcher.
"105.5, are you kidding me?" the commentator exclaimed, unable to contain his amazement at the sheer power of Chapman's pitch.
Aroldis Chapman's performance on this day was a masterclass in power pitching, a testament to his enduring dominance in the game of baseball. His ability to consistently reach such staggering velocities, even at the age of 36, is a testament to his dedication, skill, and unwavering competitive spirit.
In the early innings, Conteras hit an opposite-field home run that splashed down in the pool, showcasing his power to all fields. Later, he made a great throw to second base to record an out.
Vlad Guerrero Jr. Hits Two Mammoth Home Runs
Vlad Guerrero Jr. had a monster day at the plate, launching two towering home runs. The first was a laser shot into the second deck in left field, while the second was a rocket to dead center that traveled 441 feet. Guerrero also made a fantastic diving play in the field to take a hit away.
Ketel Marte had a perfect 3-for-3 day, including a home run and a spectacular defensive play to end the game. His offensive outburst and defensive prowess were key in the Diamondbacks' dominant performance.
Bobby Witt Jr. Reaches 100 RBIs, Hits Grand Slam
Bobby Witt Jr. continued his impressive season, driving in his 100th RBI with a solo home run. He later crushed a grand slam, showcasing his power and ability to deliver in big moments.
Jose Ramirez Joins 30-30 Club
Jose Ramirez became the first Guardian to ever have two 30-30 seasons, further cementing his status as one of the game's elite players. He hit a pair of home runs, including a towering shot down the right field line.
Shohei Ohtani continued to rewrite the record books, becoming the first player to ever join the 50-50 club (50 home runs and 50 stolen bases) in a single season. His combination of power and speed is unparalleled, and he capped off his historic day with a towering home run.
Aaron Judge Hits 58th Home Run, Makes Spectacular Catch
Aaron Judge continued his MVP-caliber season, blasting his 58th home run of the year. He also made a spectacular leaping catch, showcasing his all-around talent. The crowd chanted "MVP" in appreciation of his dominant performance.
Several pitchers put on dominant displays, including Chris Sail, who struck out 12 batters, and Zack Wheeler, who recorded 10 strikeouts. Ryan Helsley also set a new franchise record for saves in a single season with 49.
This was a day filled with incredible individual performances, both on the mound and at the plate, as players continued to push the boundaries of what's possible in Major League Baseball.
Dodgers Complete Stunning Comeback, Defeat Yankees in Game 5 to Win World Series
The Los Angeles Dodgers have done it. After falling behind 5-0 early, they stormed back with a remarkable five-run fifth inning and held on to defeat the New York Yankees 7-6 in Game 5, clinching their eighth World Series championship.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the Yankees jumping out to a quick 3-0 lead on back-to-back home runs from Aaron Judge and Jazz Chisholm. Garrett Cole was dominant early, retiring the first 15 batters he faced. But the Dodgers' resilience and the Yankees' uncharacteristic defensive lapses turned the tide.
In the pivotal fifth inning, the Dodgers took advantage of two Yankee errors to score five runs and tie the game. Freddie Freeman delivered the big blow, a two-run single that knotted the score at 5-5. Teoscar Hernandez's RBI double then gave the Dodgers their first lead of the night.
"This one inning is a comedy of errors," said the announcer. "And if they lose this game, it's their own fault."
The Yankees fought back, regaining the lead in the sixth on a sacrifice fly from John Carlos Stanton. But the Dodgers refused to go away, tying the game again in the eighth on a sacrifice fly from Gavin Lux.
With the game tied 6-6 in the ninth, the Dodgers turned to veteran reliever Walker Buehler, who had not pitched in a game since June 2018. Buehler was unfazed by the moment, retiring the side in order to seal the championship for Los Angeles.
"The Dodgers are turning to Walker Buehler out of the bullpen for the first time since the end of June in 2018," the announcer noted. "Breaking pitch, grounded to third, one gone in the ninth. The Dodgers are one out away from a championship."
And that's exactly what happened, as Buehler got the final out, sparking a wild celebration on the Dodgers' side of the field. After falling behind early, they had completed an improbable comeback to capture their first World Series title since 1988.
"Start the party, Los Angeles," the announcer exclaimed. "Your Dodgers have won the World Series. They've done it. They finished the job and give Los Angeles the parade it's been waiting for."
It was a stunning turnaround, a testament to the Dodgers' resilience and the Yankees' uncharacteristic mistakes. But in the end, the Dodgers emerged victorious, adding another championship to their storied franchise. The city of Los Angeles can now celebrate its newest baseball champions.
In the world of baseball, the defensive side of the game often goes unnoticed, overshadowed by the flashy home runs and high-scoring affairs. However, the transcript provided showcases a series of remarkable defensive plays that deserve recognition for their sheer athleticism and game-changing impact.
Robbing a Home Run
Adam Frasier's leaping catch at the wall to rob a home run and double off the runner at first base is a prime example of defensive excellence. The sheer timing and coordination required to make such a play is a testament to Frasier's skills and awareness on the field.
The transcript highlights several instances of impressive double plays, where infielders seamlessly transition from fielding the ball to making accurate throws to complete the outs. The play by Torrens, where he had to make a quick decision and throw without a perfect setup, showcases the quick thinking and execution required to turn a crucial double play.
Defensive Gems
The transcript also features a number of defensive gems, such as Taylor Walls' diving stop and double play, and Jose Siri's strong throw to third base to complete a double play. These plays not only save runs but also shift the momentum of the game, demonstrating the importance of defensive prowess in baseball.
Perhaps the most remarkable defensive highlights in the transcript are the triple plays. Turning a triple play is an incredibly rare feat, requiring perfect execution and awareness from the fielders. The plays described, where the defense was able to capitalize on baserunning mistakes and turn the triple play, are truly awe-inspiring and showcase the highest level of defensive mastery.
Throughout the transcript, the commentators' excitement and admiration for these defensive plays is palpable, underscoring the significance of these moments in the game. These highlights serve as a reminder that baseball is not just about the offensive fireworks, but also the unsung heroes on the defensive side who make game-changing plays and contribute to their team's success.
The Next Great Generational Talent from Japan: Roki Sasaki
Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old pitcher from Japan, is poised to be the next big thing in Major League Baseball. Currently employed by the Marines in Japan, Sasaki is generating a lot of excitement and speculation around his potential move to the MLB.
Sasaki is graded highly across the board, with many experts touting him as the next great generational talent to come out of Japan. The discussion has already begun around where he might end up, with some speculating that he could join fellow Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani and Yusei Yamamoto in Los Angeles. Others have pointed out that Sasaki grew up as a fan of Yu Darvish, leading to speculation that the San Diego Padres could be in the mix.
However, the Padres' recent spending habits have been a point of concern, as they have not been as active in the free agent market as they were a few years ago when they signed a 31-year-old shortstop to an 11-year contract. This has led some to believe that San Diego may not be as big a player in the Sasaki sweepstakes as other teams.
Nonetheless, Sasaki's arrival in the MLB is highly anticipated, as he represents a new generation of Japanese players who are not bound by the same restrictions as their predecessors. Unlike players like Daisuke Matsuzaka, who had to go through an expensive posting system, Sasaki will be able to join the MLB as a free agent, which could open the door for a wider range of teams to compete for his services.
The experts are intrigued by Sasaki's arsenal, which includes a 100+ mph fastball, a slider, and a split-finger fastball that sets him apart from other pitchers. His delivery and overall presence on the mound have drawn comparisons to Ohtani, with some noting similarities to former MLB pitcher Tony Gonsolin.
As the MLB community eagerly awaits Sasaki's arrival, the key will be keeping him healthy and ensuring that he can maintain his dominant performance over the long haul. With the potential to become a true superstar, Sasaki's journey to the MLB will be one to watch closely in the coming years.
Evander Holyfield Prepares for Jake Paul Fight at 58 Years Old
Evander Holyfield, the legendary boxer, is set to step back into the ring after a 19-year hiatus. At the age of 58, he will be facing off against the controversial YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul, in a highly anticipated matchup.
Why Now and Why Jake Paul?
Holyfield explains that the decision to fight Jake Paul was a "no-brainer" for him. As Paul's popularity has grown, Holyfield saw it as a good opportunity to continue fighting. He acknowledges that Paul's social media presence and call-outs of high-profile fighters like Canelo Alvarez have been controversial, but Holyfield believes everyone is entitled to their opinion.
Preparing for this fight has not been an easy task for Holyfield. He admits that the training process is "not fun" and that he has faced significant challenges. Training alongside younger, heavier fighters has been tough, and his trainers have not been kind, pushing him to the limit to see if he will quit. However, Holyfield believes he has passed the test, and he is ready to step into the ring.
Proving Himself, Not Others
Holyfield is not concerned with proving anyone wrong about his age or abilities. His focus is solely on proving himself right, on showing that he is the person he believes he is. He doesn't care about changing anyone's opinion; his only goal is to demonstrate his own capabilities.
When asked about how he thinks the fight will go, Holyfield is confident that Jake Paul is "in a lot of trouble." He is ready to step into the ring and show that he can still party with the big boys, even at 58 years old.
The time has finally come this Friday, and I'm ready to go in there and put on a show for the fans. The first fight was just magnificent - a real watershed moment for women's boxing. Over the last couple of years, I believe female boxing has capitalized on that 100%.
"Female boxing has evolved since then. It takes time, little by little, it's getting better and better. You're seeing Champions fight Champions, putting on amazing shows, going out there showcasing that women can fight, women can put on a show, women can sell tickets. So I think it's getting better, and it's only going up from there."
While I won't reveal the exact details of my payday, I can say it's a career-high and definitely in the seven figures. I'm not here to brag, but to showcase that us women can make that kind of money. It's about working hard, believing in yourself, and having a great team.
Facing a Formidable Opponent
Katie Taylor has suffered a loss, but she's still a warrior, a fighter that never leaves you. The fact that she's taking this rematch with me shows the type of person she is. I'm not going to predict a win for myself - the story could play out just like her rematch with Chantal Cameron, where she avenged her previous loss.
This fight on Friday is going to be even better than the last. It's going to be another huge event for women's boxing, and I'm honored to be a part of history once again. I definitely feel I'm a better boxer today than I was a couple of years ago, and I've made improvements from fight to fight.
Expecting an Epic Clash
For those who don't know myself or Katie, they can expect another fight that's a contender. Our styles blend very well together, and it's going to be a fight where both fighters will have to show a lot of heart and grit. There's going to be great quality skill on both sides, and we're going to see another epic fight on Friday.
Embracing Criticism and Chasing World Champion Dreams
Jake Paul, the polarizing figure in the world of boxing, is unfazed by the criticism he receives from the "boxing purists." In a candid interview, he addresses the backlash and shares his unwavering ambition to become a world champion.
"I will become boxing world champion, and when that happens, the boxing purist brains will explode because they will realize how good I was this whole time. Nobody wants to give me the credit, but of course, there's going to be criticism. The higher you climb, the windier it gets."
Paul acknowledges that his brand has become synonymous with the "comment section," which is often filled with "hate, accusations, and lies." However, he sees this as part of the game he's playing, and he's determined to come out on top.
"99.9% of people can't discern media and make their own opinion. They just go to the comment section and see what other people are saying. My brand has become that - it's become the comment section, which is full of hate, accusations, lies. But they don't see the underlying genius in it all, which is just the fact that I'm an Entertainer having a blast and that I can really fight."
Paul's complex personality and diverse interests, from entrepreneurship to spirituality, challenge the public's perception of him. He refuses to be pigeonholed and embraces the different facets of his identity.
"I'm a very, very complex person. I'm an entrepreneur, I own six businesses, I do YouTube, I have podcasts, I'm spiritual, I have a great relationship with God. There are so many layers to my on and off. I can be the class clown, crazy Entertainer, or I can be the super passionate competitor that's going to be world champion one day."
The influence of his upbringing, marked by a strict father, has shaped Paul's resilience and ambition. He acknowledges the positive and negative aspects of this experience, using it as a driving force to achieve his goals.
"The resilience, the hard work, the ambition - all of that stuff. But when your parents are hard on you, it can create a lack of self-love and insecurities. You just have to squash the bad parts and keep the good parts of the trauma."
Despite the criticism, Paul remains undeterred in his pursuit of boxing greatness. He has called out top-tier fighters like Canelo Alvarez, and he's determined to prove his doubters wrong.
"I will beat him, and everyone says, 'Fight a pro boxer.' I do that three times, knock them all out, and they discredit that. Then I'm calling out Canelo, and they're like, 'You're stupid.' What do you want? Don't you guys want me to get my beat? Isn't that what people want to see?"
Jake Paul's journey in the boxing world is marked by a relentless drive, a willingness to embrace criticism, and a desire to redefine the perception of who he is. As he continues to chase his world champion dreams, the boxing community can expect more surprises and controversy from this complex and multifaceted athlete.
It's great to see you, Ella! We haven't caught up in a while, so I'm excited to get to know you a little better today. Let's dive right in and play a game of "unlock" to learn more about you.
The Lock Screen
Your lock screen is a classic photo of your parents on their wedding day. I love the old-school vibe of it - the headpieces are so fashionable. It's clear that your family is incredibly close, and they're a big part of your life. Your parents seem to be your biggest fans, traveling everywhere to support you. That's really special.
For our next task, we're going to spread some love and joy. You've chosen to write a little poem for your friend, Tuni. The rhyme you came up with is perfect: "Hey Ella, I think you're Stella, what are you up to? I miss you." I'm sure Tuni will appreciate the thoughtful gesture, even if it catches her by surprise.
Music and Memories
Your most-played song right now is full of T's, which makes sense since you mentioned putting on music as soon as you wake up. It's a great way to start the day and get pumped up for training.
The last selfie you took was from a recent trip to the US for a big USWNT game. It looks like an incredible experience, both on the field and exploring the city. I'd love to see any behind-the-scenes photos or videos you have from that trip - the one with the man feeding the pigeons sounds particularly amusing!
Celeb Interactions
It's so cool that you've had interactions with David Beckham on Instagram. As a fellow football fan, I can imagine that was a pretty surreal experience. If you could have one dream follow on social media, you've chosen Luke Hames, which is a great pick. He seems like a really genuine and inspiring person.
Overall, it's been wonderful catching up with you, Ella. You have such a warm and positive energy, and it's clear you have a lot of love and support from your family and friends. I'm grateful we got to reconnect and learn more about your life. Here's to many more adventures and memories to come!
Principal referência técnica do Juventude desde a temporada passada, Nenê pode prorrogar a sua passagem pelo clube por mais um ano. Em entrevista coletiva na manhã desta segunda-feira, o meia de 43 anos foi questionado sobre a aposentadoria ao final da temporada e não descartou a possibilidade de permanecer no clube em 2025.
– Acabei de acordar e vocês já seguem com essas perguntas (risos). É uma possibilidade. Não sei ainda, mas como eu falei, o foco agora é a permanência aqui na Série A. Eu estou bastante feliz aqui, acredito que eu vou ver como eu vou me sentir fisicamente. Mas é difícil falar agora, ainda mais assim, antes de um momento tão importante. Mas é uma possibilidade, sim – declarou o camisa 10.
Nenê chegou ao Alfredo Jaconi nas rodadas iniciais da Série B de 2023 e foi peça fundamental na conquista do acesso sob o comando do técnico Thiago Carpini. Naquela temporada, disputou 28 jogos com sete gols e mais sete assistências. O número só não foi maior por causa de uma lesão nas rodadas finais da competição, que tirou o meia dos últimos quatros jogos do time.
Após as boas aparições, o "garotinho" estendeu o vínculo com o Papo por mais uma temporada. Apesar de menos decisivo, já esteve em campo em 32 partidas no ano, com dois gols e mais quatro passes para gols. Durante o período no Alfredo Jaconi, Nenê comemorou outra marca expressiva. No primeiro jogo da final do Gauchão contra o Grêmio, atingiu mil jogos como profissional.
À disposição do técnico Fábio Matias, Nenê é peça importante na luta pela permanência do Juventude na Série A do Campeonato Brasileiro. O time de Caxias do Sul tem um confronto direto contra o Grêmio na próxima quarta-feira, às 19h, na Arena.
O Brasileirão retorna nesta quarta-feira, após a última pausa para a data Fifa, e se encaminha para a reta final. A cinco rodadas do fim, a briga nas duas pontas da tabela está acirrada. Na parte de baixo, sete times estão separados por apenas três pontos, sendo dois deles dentro do Z-4.
No sábado, o Athletico-PR venceu o Atlético-MG no último jogo atrasado, deixou a zona da degola e colocou o Juventude, por conta dos critérios de desempate. Quatro equipes somam os mesmos 37 pontos. Agora, os 20 times da Série A estão com 33 rodadas completas.
Nas 18 edições anteriores do Brasileirão de pontos corridos com 20 clubes (desde 2006), em 13 ao menos uma equipe que estava no Z-4 a cinco rodadas do fim conseguiu escapar da queda – 15 equipes no total.
Por duas vezes na mesma edição, dois times saíram da parte de baixo e evitaram o rebaixamento: 2010 (Atlético-MG e Avaí) e 2013 (Criciúma e Fluminense). O Tricolor carioca, inclusive, tem uma das campanhas mais emblemáticas, em 2009, quando chegou a ter 98% de chance de cair.
Arsenal's recent performance has been a mixed bag, with the team failing to capitalize on their lead against their latest opponents. In the bigger picture, the Gunners find themselves in a precarious position, having faced a challenging schedule with six of the last season's top 10 teams, five of which were away matches.
The absence of their leading player, Martin Odegaard, has been felt, but the team is now welcoming back their main stars. However, the recent injuries to Saka and Dean have raised concerns, though the international break may provide a much-needed respite.
One area of concern for Arsenal is the lack of competition within the squad. The potential signing of Netto could have provided the necessary depth and competition to push the players to perform at their best. This lack of competition may be hindering the team's progress.
As the season progresses, every game becomes increasingly crucial for Arsenal. According to the expert's assessment, the team cannot afford to lose any more matches, as they will need to win against both Liverpool and Manchester City to keep their hopes alive. The Gunners are in a precarious position, and the upcoming fixtures will be a true test of their resilience and ability to bounce back.
The Continuing Nightmare for Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti, the experienced manager of Real Madrid, is facing a challenging situation at the club. Despite having a wealth of talented players at his disposal, Ancelotti seems to be struggling to find the right balance and get the best out of his squad.
The departure of key players like Toni Kroos has left a void in the midfield, and Ancelotti is finding it difficult to replace the leadership and technical control that Kroos provided. The arrival of Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé has added further complexity to the team's dynamics, as Ancelotti tries to integrate these new players into the system.
Bellingham, in particular, has been a challenge for Ancelotti. The young midfielder thrived in a more advanced, "false nine" role last season, but is now finding it difficult to adapt to the demands of Ancelotti's system. Similarly, Mbappé has struggled to find his place on the pitch, with the French striker going through long stretches of the game without touching the ball.
The issues at Real Madrid extend beyond just the players on the pitch. The backroom staff and the team as a whole seem to be facing a lot of internal turmoil, with "a lot of pointing fingers" and a general sense of instability.
Ancelotti, known for his calm presence and ability to navigate difficult situations, has faced similar challenges in the past, such as during his time at Everton. However, the pressure at Real Madrid is immense, and the expectations are high. The club's supporters and the media will be closely watching Ancelotti's ability to turn things around and find the right balance in his team.
As the season progresses, Ancelotti will need to find a way to get the best out of his talented squad, while also addressing the structural and leadership issues within the team. The arrival of Mbappé may provide a temporary boost, but the long-term success of Real Madrid will depend on Ancelotti's ability to create a cohesive and well-functioning unit.
Embracing the Premier League Dream: Morgan Gibbs-White's Journey
Morgan Gibbs-White, the 22-year-old Aston Villa midfielder, has had a whirlwind journey in the world of football. From relocating for loan spells to securing a move to the Premier League, he has navigated the challenges of the sport with determination and a deep passion for the game.
Reflecting on his time in the Midlands, Gibbs-White expresses his appreciation for being back home, acknowledging the sacrifices he's made to pursue his football career. "It's been crazy, I think my family probably appreciate more me being around the corner and that now, but it's what you have to do in football. It's just part of the job you have to go different places and stuff."
Despite the challenges of constantly moving, Gibbs-White embraced the experiences, believing they have shaped him into the player he is today. "I wouldn't be the person I am if I didn't go on them loans and get them experiences. So it was definitely definitely needed for me."
The decision to join Aston Villa, his hometown club, was a tough one, but an opportunity he couldn't pass up. "When a team like Villa comes, it's impossible to say no, and especially being from Birmingham as well, it was like a perfect reality."
Gibbs-White's performances this season have exceeded his own expectations, and he credits his manager's unwavering belief and attention to detail as key factors in his development. "His detail is next level, and you're just like, 'Wow, this is the real deal.' And he does that 100 times a week, and it just brings out the best in you."
The Premier League experience has been both surreal and exhilarating for Gibbs-White, who still finds himself in awe of the caliber of players he faces each week. "Every time it just gets a bit better, like it doesn't wear off, and to be a part of that is something I didn't expect to happen so quick."
Gibbs-White's journey has been shaped by the players he looked up to growing up, such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar, and he strives to emulate their freedom and expression on the pitch. "I like the idea of players just expressing themselves and playing with sheer freedom, and I try and bring that freedom into my game as well."
As Gibbs-White continues to impress in the Premier League, the talk of a potential England call-up has started to grow. While he acknowledges the fierce competition for a spot, he remains determined to knock on the door and represent his country. "It's a goal of mine, it's an ambition of mine. I hopefully I'm knocking at the door and I'm not too far away on that."
The prospect of potentially playing alongside his fellow Birmingham native, Jude Bellingham, for England is a tantalizing one for Gibbs-White. "It would be a nice moment for the Midlands, but also for Birmingham to have you both in there."
Gibbs-White's journey is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and unwavering passion for the game. As he continues to shine in the Premier League, the future looks bright for this young talent, who is determined to make the most of his opportunities and fulfill his dreams.
There's a sense that Jabbi Alonso has always been destined to be a great manager. He had an illustrious playing career, winning the Champions League, Spanish title, German title, and the World Cup and European championships with Spain. He worked under the finest managers of his generation, including Carlo Ancelotti, Rafa Benitez, Jose Mourinho, and Pep Guardiola – a set of references that is hard to beat.
Despite his impressive pedigree, Alonso took his time in transitioning to management. He did his badges and worked with the youth teams at Rayo Vallecano, the club where he had initially come through, before taking his first senior job at Bayer Leverkusen. This proved to be the perfect environment for the young, ambitious, and still-learning manager.
In his first season at Leverkusen, Alonso took a team that was languishing in the relegation zone of the Bundesliga and guided them back up to the top half of the table. In his second season, he won the title, giving the club its first German championship in its 120-year history. It's not hard to see why clubs are so keen on him.
Alonso's teams play attractive, tactically astute, and adventurous football, but he also retains certain core elements. He wants his team to dominate the ball, which is no surprise to anybody who watched him as a player. However, he's also shown an ability to make use of players who thrive on the counterattack, like Jeremy Frong, the Dutch right-back who has been one of the standout players at Leverkusen under Alonso. He's also got the best out of Victor Bonface, one of that rare breed of true number nines in European football.
Alonso's stock has been rising, and the offers have started to pour in. Two of his former teams, Liverpool and Bayern Munich, came closest to hiring him. Alonso has never hidden the fact that he has developed a strong bond with the clubs he played for, and this has made him an attractive candidate for these top clubs.
Liverpool and Bayern Munich both made overtures to Alonso, but he made it clear that he had given his word to Leverkusen that he would give them another season, and he had no intention of breaking that. This loyalty and commitment to his current club have only added to Alonso's reputation as a manager who can connect with the fans and the club hierarchy.
The crucial thing for clubs like Liverpool, Bayern, and Real Madrid is the bond Alonso has not only with the fans but with the club hierarchy. He is seen as someone who can connect the boardroom with the terraces and do it almost instantly – a precious quality for any manager at a top club where the pressure is so high and the need to deliver is so immediate.
The risk, of course, is that managerial careers work on timings. Liverpool and Bayern may well not be available at the end of this season, as they have already appointed new managers in Anfield and the Allianz Arena, respectively. However, Alonso's name may still be at the top of the list for another top job – potentially at Real Madrid, where Carlo Ancelotti's second spell has brought endless success.
If Ancelotti decides to step away this summer, it seems clear that Alonso is the obvious successor. By that stage, he will have another year's experience, having taken Leverkusen into the Champions League and hopefully deep into the competition. He may well feel that he's ready then, not just for another step up, but for possibly the biggest step of them all.
It's not about the system, it's about the manager coming in and getting the absolute best out of the group of players they inherit. The new manager at Manchester United has a difficult job ahead, but as a United fan, one must be optimistic that they can turn things around.
Implementing a new system, such as switching from a back four to a back three, is not an easy task in the middle of the season. It requires a lot of practice on the training pitch to get the timing and positioning right. The two center-backs on the outside of the middle one, for example, need to be in sync with the wing-backs to cover the spaces.
While the new manager's philosophy at Sporting was to dominate games with high energy and a high defensive line, that may not be the best approach for the current United squad. The manager will need to be intelligent and tweak the system to suit the players he has. The most important thing is that the work ethic and intensity increase, and the team becomes more organized and harder to play against.
Bruno Fernandes' Role as Captain
Bruno Fernandes has not been at his best this season, but when the team needs someone to be brave and creative, he steps up. There may be critics who say he doesn't fit into a structured system and that his emotional outbursts as captain are a problem, but this is more a reflection of his desire to win than anything else.
Fernandes is a leader in the dressing room, particularly with the young players, and he leads by example on the pitch with his quality and range of passing. In a more organized team that suits him better, his emotional outbursts and frustrations are likely to soften, as he'll be winning more games and playing in a more structured environment.
The weight of the Manchester United shirt is heavy, and Fernandes, as the captain, can certainly wear that shirt. His desire to turn things around is a positive, and the new manager will need to harness that passion and channel it in a way that benefits the team.
Instant Connection and Shared Passions: The Story of Me and Morgan
When me and Morgan first met, we were both on loan at Lincoln. From the moment he arrived, we just clicked. I think it was because we're from similar parts of the world - he's from Birmingham and I'm from Nottingham, so we had a lot in common.
Morgan's a funny guy, and we really enjoyed each other's company, both on and off the pitch. We had a great connection when we played together, and I think that's what really made our friendship take off.
Footballing Idols and Finishing Abilities
When it comes to footballing idols, I'd say my idol is Cristiano Ronaldo, while Morgan's might be Ronaldinho. But when it comes to finishing, I'd have to say I'm the better finisher, even though Ronaldo is pretty incredible on paper.
My favorite food is pasta, while Morgan's might be pizza. As for music, I'm a big fan of Lil Baby, while Morgan's a bit of a music connoisseur - he listens to all kinds of stuff, so it's hard to pin down a favorite.
Alternative Careers
If I wasn't a footballer, I think I'd make a pretty good pundit. And if Morgan wasn't a footballer, he'd probably be a gamer or a YouTuber. Me, I'd probably try my hand at being a DJ.
Personality Red Flags
One of my personality red flags is that I can be a bit too loud for Morgan's liking. He's more of a quiet, moody guy, and my constant need to keep myself amused can be a bit much for him sometimes.
When it comes to punctuality, Morgan's definitely the one more likely to be late for training. As for fashion sense, I'd have to say I'm the better dressed of the two of us. Morgan's style is a bit out there, and he's had some questionable outfits in the past.
Overall, me and Morgan have a great friendship, built on a shared passion for the game and a genuine connection. We may have our differences, but that's what makes our bond so special.
The Unstoppable Rise of Nikola Jokic: A Season for the Ages
Nikola Jokic's historic performances have become a regular occurrence, and it's time the basketball world takes notice. The Denver Nuggets superstar is putting together a season that is simply unparalleled, cementing his status as the best player in the NBA today.
Jokic's latest feat was a triple-double of 37 points, 18 rebounds, and 15 assists, leading the Nuggets to a thrilling 122-120 victory over the reigning Western Conference champions, the Dallas Mavericks. This was Jokic's fourth consecutive triple-double and his sixth of the young NBA season, putting him atop the league in that metric.
But Jokic's dominance extends far beyond just triple-doubles. He is currently leading the league in rebounds (nearly 14 per game) and assists (nearly 12 per game), while also scoring nearly 30 points per game, good for fourth in the league. And he's doing all of this on obscene shooting splits of 56% from the field, 56% from the three-point line, and 84% from the free-throw line.
It's become increasingly difficult to compare players across eras, especially when considering the significant changes in the game's pace, rules, and defensive intensity over the years. However, one thing is clear: Nikola Jokic is far and away the best player we've seen in the post-2010 era, surpassing the likes of LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry.
Despite Jokic's historic performances, the media has been slow to recognize his dominance. Going into the game against the Mavericks, Jokic was only third on the NBA.com Kia MVP ladder, behind Anthony Davis and Jayson Tatum. This is a clear indication of the media's bias against Jokic, as they seem determined to "halt or promote certain historical narratives."
It's undeniable that Jokic should have won the 2023 NBA MVP award, which was instead given to Joel Embiid. The media's apparent "rigging" and "blackballing" of Jokic's candidacy is a testament to their unwillingness to acknowledge his greatness.
Jokic's impact on the game extends far beyond the traditional box score. He currently leads the league by a "laughable margin" in every single key advanced metric, including VORP, BPM, PER, and Win Shares. This marks the fifth consecutive season that Jokic has led the league in these metrics, which were once used to "pleasure themselves" while drooling over LeBron James.
Furthermore, Jokic's on-off metrics are simply staggering. His on-off of +43.7 points per 100 possessions is pacing to shatter Kobe Bryant's record mark for this century of +19.2 in 2006. To put this in context, Anthony Davis is at +3.4, Jayson Tatum is at +6.10, Luka Doncic is at +9.4, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is at +13.3 – all impressive numbers, but dwarfed by Jokic's historic impact.
If ever there should be a unanimous MVP season, it is this one. Jokic is averaging a 30-point per game triple-double on sky-high shooting splits, all while leading a Nuggets team that is 7-3 despite missing key players like Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon.
Fans and basketball enthusiasts alike should not miss a single second of Nikola Jokic's historic season. History is unfolding before our very eyes, and we are witnessing the rise of a true NBA legend.
The Captaincy Challenge: A Friendly Rivalry on the Pitch
Embracing Friendship and Football
As the two friends, Grace and Mayor, gathered for their pottery challenge, the air was filled with a sense of camaraderie and a shared passion for the game they loved. The task at hand was to paint a pot inspired by the other's personality, all while answering a series of questions from their fans.
Grace, the newly appointed captain of the team, and Mayor, her longtime friend, were determined to showcase their creativity and bond, even as their roles on the pitch had shifted. "I'd hope not," Mayor responded when asked if the dynamic had changed since Grace became captain. "I just have to be around on the pitch now."
The two players delved into their pre-match rituals, with Mayor revealing her unique routine of listening to the same album before every game. "It's so weird, really," she admitted, "but it's just a bit risky."
When it came to their football skills, the friends were quick to compliment each other. Grace's passing range and Mayor's dribbling ability were the skills they wished they could swap, showcasing a mutual respect and appreciation for each other's talents.
The Hug Tree and Celebration
As the painting progressed, the conversation turned to the concept of the "hug tree" – a special tree in Mayor's garden that she described as the perfect hugging spot. "It's really hugable," she explained, "so then what makes a perfect hug tree like we can fit your arms around it."
The friends also discussed a potential celebration for their next match, deciding on a painting-inspired routine where one player would hold up the painted pot while the other painted.
The Finished Masterpieces
As the challenge drew to a close, the friends proudly displayed their creations. Grace's pot featured the iconic captain's armband, complete with the carefully spelled "Captain" text, surrounded by autumn leaves and rain – a nod to the Manchester weather. Mayor's pot, on the other hand, showcased a warm and inviting hug tree, with the arms of the tree embracing the entire design.
Both players expressed their satisfaction with the final products, acknowledging the challenges of translating their ideas into physical form. "It's really nice," Mayor said, admiring Grace's work. "I really like looky yours."
With the challenge complete, the friends eagerly awaited the fans' verdict, excited to see who would emerge victorious in this friendly rivalry on the pitch.
The Ballon d'Or: A Coveted Prize in the World of Football
The Ballon d'Or, one of the most prestigious individual awards in football, is set to be awarded on Monday. As the trophy sits in the studio, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about the history, significance, and potential future winners of this esteemed accolade.
The Ballon d'Or's Illustrious History
The first recipient of the Ballon d'Or was the legendary Stanley Matthews, who served as an ambassador for the game. Over the years, the award has been dominated by the likes of Lionel Messi, who has won it a remarkable eight times, and Cristiano Ronaldo, who has claimed the trophy five times.
When asked about the toughest opponents they have faced, the guests share their experiences. One guest, who has played against numerous Ballon d'Or winners, highlights the original Ronaldo (R9) as an "immense player" with precision and a natural finishing ability. Other notable mentions include Zinedine Zidane and Thierry Henry, who the guest believes should have been recognized with the award.
As the Messi-Ronaldo era comes to an end, the discussion turns to the emerging talents who could dominate the Ballon d'Or in the years to come. Vinicius Junior is seen as a strong contender, with the potential to win the award multiple times. However, the guests also highlight the impressive performances of midfielders like Rodri, who they believe deserve greater recognition.
The English Premier League's Representation
The guests acknowledge the lack of English Premier League players winning the Ballon d'Or in recent years, with the last winner from the league being in 2008. They suggest that the award may not be giving enough attention to the talented players in the English top flight, such as Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, and Phil Foden.
The discussion also touches on the meteoric rise of Erling Haaland, the Norwegian striker who has been scoring goals at an astonishing rate. With 44 goals already in the Champions League, the guests believe Haaland is a strong contender for the Ballon d'Or in the near future.
As the conversation comes to an end, the hosts express their awe at having the prestigious Ballon d'Or trophy in the studio, highlighting the significance and prestige of this coveted award in the world of football.
Unai Emery's tenure as Arsenal's manager has been marked by a relentless work ethic and a meticulous attention to detail. Since taking over the club, Emery has assembled a formidable backroom staff, with the number of assistants reportedly exceeding the number of players in recent meetings.
Emery's commitment to preparation is unparalleled. He personally creates 50-minute video analyses that take him up to 8 hours to complete, and he conducts 70-90 minute meetings with the players three times a week. This level of dedication reflects Emery's belief that "the more you think, the more you work, the more you correct, the better you are."
One of Emery's key strengths, as highlighted by his assistant Paco Asan, is his ability to quickly move on from the previous game and focus on the next challenge. This mental resilience is crucial in the fast-paced world of Premier League football, where teams must constantly adapt and improve.
The Backstory
Emery's appointment at Arsenal was not without its complexities. According to the transcript, Emery's relationship with the club's owners, particularly Nasif Sis, has been a driving force behind his meticulous approach. Sis reportedly asked Emery about his plans for the club, leading Emery to bring in a large backroom staff, including a CEO and a director of football.
This extensive support network reflects Emery's desire to leave no stone unturned in his pursuit of success at Arsenal. The sheer number of assistants and the intensity of their work suggest that Emery is determined to leave a lasting impact on the club, both on and off the pitch.
The Road Ahead
As Arsenal continues to navigate the challenges of the Premier League, Emery's unwavering commitment to preparation and attention to detail will be crucial. His ability to quickly move on from past results and focus on the next game will be tested, but if his work ethic and attention to detail are any indication, Emery is well-equipped to lead Arsenal to new heights.
Bayern Munich will be feeling the pressure to win this season's Champions League. They are coming off the back of a trophyless season for the first time since 2012, and to add even more pressure, the final for this year's Champions League will be held in Munich. The last time Bayern hosted a final, they suffered a shock defeat to Chelsea, and they'll be hoping to put that right this year.
Bayern have a new manager in Vincent Kompany, someone well-known from his time at Manchester City. While some were surprised to see him move from a relegated Burnley side to Bayern, Kompany understands that coaching Bayern is very different from coaching Burnley in the Championship or Premier League. The players he has now are the best he's ever worked with, and the lessons he'll be giving them will be different than those for an underdog side like Burnley.
Managing bigger egos could be a concern, but Kompany was a captain for his national team, so he understands that everyone is different. While Bayern has players like Thomas Müller, who is the club's record appearance maker, Kompany knows how to ensure that even when a player is not playing, they are still pulling in the same direction as everyone else.
Kompany's time under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City has taught him a different style of football, and being open-minded is one of the biggest assets he can bring to Bayern. This new perspective could be the difference for him as a coach.
Kompany is aware that this season, especially in the Bundesliga, Bayern will be the favorites for 90% of their games. However, he knows that not every week will it be a low block or a mid-block defense. Sometimes it might be the RB Leipzig style of high energy, and sometimes it could be man-to-man. Kompany is looking to solve as many of these problems as possible and allow his team to thrive in attack, which is their biggest strength.
One of the most important parts of Bayern's build-up play is Jamal Musiala. Even though the two center-backs and a midfielder drop to make it a three-man backline, Musiala has the freedom to roam. He can come back to support the play and progress the ball up the field, or he can stay higher and play more like a false nine, linking up with Harry Kane.
Another important aspect of Bayern's play is the fact that their wingers will stay really high and at times really wide. While they may not get many touches of the ball, players like Serge Gnabry and Leroy Sané are vital because they pin the opposition's backline, allowing the likes of Kane to drop deeper.
Speaking of Harry Kane, he is without a doubt one of the best finishers in world football, and his link-up play is as good as we've seen. How he benefits this Bayern Munich side, especially in the biggest games, as they approach one of the biggest seasons in their history, will be crucial.
Can Kane and Bayern end their respective wait for a trophy? I believe they can, but will it be this season's Champions League? We'll have to wait and see.
The Early Season Wobble: Assessing the Premier League Title Race
As the Premier League season enters its eighth game week, the question of who will emerge victorious in the title race has already begun to surface. While it may be too early to make definitive predictions, the early signs have been intriguing, with several teams jockeying for position.
Manchester City: The Perennial Favorites
Despite a slight "wobble" in their recent performances, the consensus among the pundits is that Manchester City remain the favorites to lift the trophy. Their experience and consistency over the past few years have made them the team to beat, and with Pep Guardiola at the helm, they are expected to find their rhythm and mount a strong challenge.
Arsenal's early-season form has been a pleasant surprise for many, with the Gunners currently sitting atop the table. However, their recent struggles after the international break have raised some concerns. The pundits believe that Arsenal will be in the mix for the title, but their ability to maintain their form and handle the pressure of a prolonged challenge will be crucial.
Liverpool: The Dark Horses?
While Manchester City and Arsenal are widely regarded as the frontrunners, the pundits have also highlighted Liverpool as a potential dark horse in the title race. The Reds have the quality and experience to mount a serious challenge, but their ability to navigate through injuries and suspensions could be the key factor in determining their success.
One common theme that emerged from the discussion is the importance of discipline for the title contenders, particularly in the case of Arsenal. The Gunners' tendency to pick up unnecessary red cards and suspensions has been a cause for concern, and the pundits believe that if they can address this issue, they will have a better chance of sustaining their title challenge.
As the season progresses, the title race is expected to intensify, with the balance of power shifting between the various contenders. The ability of the teams to maintain their form, manage their squads, and avoid costly mistakes will be crucial in determining the eventual champion.
The appointment of Thomas Tuchel as the new England manager has sent shockwaves through the football world. After the departure of Gareth Southgate, the Football Association (FA) has made a bold move, bringing in a proven winner to lead the national team.
Excitement and Skepticism
The reaction to Tuchel's appointment has been a mix of excitement and skepticism. Some fans are thrilled to have a manager with a track record of success, while others are concerned about the decision to bring in a foreign coach.
"If you're not excited as an England fan by a manager coming in that is a proven winner, then there's something wrong with us as a nation," said former England international Farah. "I think it's a great appointment."
However, the decision to overlook English managers has raised questions about the development of domestic coaching talent. "It certainly looks like the English coaching pathway has failed," acknowledged Leon. "We have not managed to get an English manager for the national team."
Tuchel's Reputation and Personality
Tuchel's reputation in Germany is a complex one. While he is widely respected for his tactical acumen and success in knockout competitions, he is also seen as an eccentric and difficult personality.
"He's seen in Germany as being a bit of an outsider within with his eccentricities," explained Arie Rintut, a Bundesliga expert. "He's seen as a very good coach, but doesn't get the respect that he has in England."
Tuchel's relationship with the media and players is also a concern, as he is not known for the same level of player management and media savvy as his predecessor, Gareth Southgate.
A Mandate for Immediate Success
The FA's decision to give Tuchel an 18-month contract is a clear indication that they are looking for immediate success. "It's a statement," said Farah. "He's been brought in to do one job, and that is to win the World Cup."
This short-term approach is a departure from the more gradual development seen under Southgate, and it raises questions about the long-term vision for the national team.
The appointment of Tuchel represents a crucial juncture for English football. The national team has the talent to compete at the highest level, but the question remains whether a foreign manager can unlock that potential and deliver the success that the fans crave.
As the countdown to the World Cup begins, all eyes will be on Tuchel and his ability to navigate the challenges of international football. The journey ahead promises to be a thrilling one, with the potential for both triumph and controversy.
The Rise of Ricardo Calori: From Roma Fan to Arsenal Star
A Passion for Football from a Young Age
Ricardo Calori's love for football began at a young age, around 5 or 6 years old. He was initially a fan of Roma, and even played in their academy growing up. As he developed his skills, Calori looked up to players like Totti, Vieri, and Cristiano Ronaldo as his idols.
The Breakthrough at Basel
Calori's big breakthrough came when he joined Swiss club Basel. He credits this move as "the best choice" he ever made, as it allowed him to grow not just as a player, but as a person. Playing regularly and feeling important for the club was a transformative experience for the young Italian.
After Basel, Calori moved to Bologna, where he had his "best season" last year. He was determined to prove to the Rossoblu fans that he was not the same player who had struggled for playing time at Roma in the past. Calori's performances at Bologna caught the eye of Arsenal, who soon came calling.
The Dream Move to Arsenal
Calori had been an Arsenal supporter for a while, having visited the city and watched them play. When the Gunners came in for him, he was already convinced. Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, had been in touch with Calori for over a year, trying to convince him to join the club. For Calori, it was a dream come true to wear the iconic red and white kit.
Calori's debut for Arsenal came against the daunting challenge of Manchester City. However, he rose to the occasion, scoring a stunning goal that left everyone in awe. Calori admitted that he didn't even know what he was doing, as his instincts took over and he found the top corner with a "screamer."
Embracing the "Aura"
Calori's manager, Arteta, has described the young Italian as having a special "aura" about him, both on and off the pitch. Calori himself acknowledges that his attitude and behavior on the field have been crucial to his success, helping both himself and the team.
With his impressive debut and the support of the Arsenal faithful, Ricardo Calori has already made a strong impression. As he continues to develop and grow with the club, the future looks bright for this young Italian talent who has found a new home in the heart of North London.
The panel also highlighted the remarkable career of Jamie Vardy, who has defied expectations to become a Premier League great. Despite an unorthodox approach, including drinking Red Bull before matches, Vardy has a 25% chance conversion rate, second only to Haaland.
The discussion emphasized Haaland's dominance in key efficiency metrics, cementing his status as the most ruthless and effective striker in Premier League history so far. However, the panel also recognized Vardy's unique journey and impressive longevity at the top level, despite his unconventional methods.
Roki Sasaki: The Next Japanese Pitching Sensation Eyeing MLB
The Saga of Roki Sasaki's Potential Move to the Major Leagues
Based on the interview with Jim Allen, a premier Japanese baseball reporter, there are several key factors surrounding Roki Sasaki's potential move from the Chiba Lotte Marines to Major League Baseball:
The Backstory
Sasaki was highly sought after by Japanese teams when he turned pro, with 11 of the 12 teams meeting with him. However, only 4 teams ended up drafting him, hinting at his desire to eventually play in MLB.
There were rumors last year that Sasaki wanted to be posted for the MLB, but the Chiba Lotte Marines denied this. It's believed they were trying to convince him to stay in Japan for a few more seasons.
The Marines will likely post Sasaki between December 1-15, giving MLB teams a chance to negotiate with him. Waiting until the end of the window maximizes the number of teams that can make offers.
Sasaki's representatives will likely share medical information with teams upfront, rather than having them bid blindly. This allows him to weigh the best overall fit, not just the highest offer.
Factors in Sasaki's Decision
Money does not appear to be the primary motivator for Sasaki. He is passing up potentially over $100 million to come to MLB at age 23 rather than waiting a couple more seasons.
Sasaki seems focused on becoming the best player he can be, similar to Shohei Ohtani's approach. The team that can best develop him and help him reach his ceiling will likely be the winner.
Cultural differences between the hyper-competitive MLB contract landscape and the more loyalty-based NPB system could also play a role in his decision.
Potential Suitors
The Dodgers have been heavily scouting Sasaki and are rumored to be a frontrunner, but Jim Allen cautions against reading too much into those rumors.
Other teams like the A's, who have strong scouting ties in Japan, could also be in the mix. But Sasaki will likely choose the team he feels can best help him maximize his potential.
In the end, Sasaki's decision will come down to finding the right fit and environment to help him become the best pitcher possible, rather than simply chasing the highest payday. The Dodgers may be a logical landing spot, but Sasaki will have no shortage of suitors vying for his services.
The Tampa Bay Rays, a baseball franchise that earlier this year unveiled ambitious plans for a new $1.3 billion stadium and a $6 billion development project, now find themselves in a precarious position. The team's slogan of "here to stay" has given way to uncertainty, as the owner, Stu Sternberg, has even floated the possibility of relocation.
The primary reason for this shift is a confluence of events, including political delays and the devastating impact of Hurricane Milton. Pinellas County, where the proposed stadium was to be built, was supposed to take a vote to approve $300 million in bonds to fund the project. However, the vote was delayed due to the hurricane, and by the time it was rescheduled, the political landscape had changed.
Two new county commissioners, who do not favor the project, were elected, shifting the vote from a slim yes to a slim no. Sternberg has expressed his frustration, stating that the county's failure to approve the bonds "upended our ballpark agreement" and sent a "clear message that we had lost the county as a partner."
Adding to the Rays' woes is the uncertainty surrounding Tropicana Field, their current home. While an initial estimate suggested it would cost $56 million and take a full calendar year to fix the stadium's roof, there are concerns that the actual repair costs and timeline could be significantly greater.
With the Rays temporarily playing at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, which is not located in Pinellas County, the county officials are also expressing bitterness that the team did not stay within their jurisdiction.
The Rays' situation is further complicated by the fact that they were supposed to have $700 million in private financing, a $100 million loan from Major League Baseball, and half of the design documents completed to secure the bonds vote and move forward with the groundbreaking in early 2025. However, these requirements have not been fully met, adding to the uncertainty.
The Looming Threat of Relocation
Sternberg's mention of relocation as a possibility has sent shockwaves through the Rays' fan base. The contrast between the team's "here to stay" slogan and the current uncertainty is stark, and it has left many wondering about the franchise's long-term future in the Tampa Bay area.
The Tampa Bay Rays are facing a perfect storm of challenges, from political delays and natural disasters to the ongoing issues with Tropicana Field. With the team's temporary home at Steinbrenner Field and the lack of a clear path forward for a new stadium, the franchise's future in the region has become increasingly uncertain. As the Rays navigate these turbulent waters, their fans and the broader baseball community will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that keeps the team firmly rooted in Tampa Bay.
The Chicago White Sox's Historic Collapse: From Division Champions to MLB's Worst Team
Just two years ago, the Chicago White Sox seemed poised for greatness. In 2021, they clinched their first division title since 2008, with a young core of stars and a talented pitching staff. The energy was electric, and the Southside faithful believed they were witnessing the dawn of a new era.
Fast forward to 2024, and the White Sox have spiraled into a historic collapse, on pace to become one of the worst teams in modern MLB history. With over 100 losses before the end of August, they now trail the Cleveland Guardians by an unimaginable 51 games, a staggering turnaround from their 2021 division-winning season.
The White Sox's downfall was swift. They opened the 2024 season by losing 22 of their first 25 games, and any hope of contention was gone by mid-August. Manager Pedro Grifol was fired on August 8th after a dismal 28-89 record, and his interim replacement, Grady Seore, fared no better, leading the team to a 5-26 record.
Statistically, the White Sox are in shambles. They rank last in the American League in ERA (4.83), dead last in the majors in walks, OPS, runs scored, and home runs. Their struggles play out game after game, with embarrassing moments like a routine fly ball turning into a disastrous collision between players.
The White Sox's collapse wasn't the result of a single factor, but rather a perfect storm of institutional failure. Their farm system failed to deliver, with highly anticipated international prospects and top draft picks struggling to make an impact. The front office's failure to strengthen the roster after the 2021 season, coupled with owner Jerry Reinsdorf's reluctance to open his wallet, further exacerbated the team's issues.
Injuries also played a significant role, with stars like Yoan Moncada and Eloy Jimenez unable to stay healthy and fulfill the hype that led to their lucrative extensions. The organization's loyalty to the duo of Kenny Williams and Rick Hahn, who led the team to the 2005 World Series, kept the organization stuck in the past, unable to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the game.
The Road Ahead
As the 2024 season finally comes to a close, the White Sox face a daunting offseason filled with big decisions. The search for a new manager is already underway, with the team likely to explore outside options focused on developing players and building a winning culture from the ground up.
The roster itself will also be under heavy scrutiny, as the front office must determine which players are worth keeping around and which can develop into solid everyday contributors. The team's young pitching prospects, such as Jonathan Cannon and Drew Thornton, offer a glimmer of hope, while the offensive side remains a significant question mark.
Rebuilding the White Sox will be a challenging task, but the organization must learn from the mistakes that led to this historic collapse. With the right leadership, a renewed focus on player development, and a willingness to adapt, the White Sox can once again become a contender in the American League. The road ahead may be long, but the potential is there for a triumphant return to the top.
Daniel Jones is headed to the bench, and he might not ever start another game for the Giants.
Coming off of a bye week late in another lost season, the Giants have decided to bench Jones and turn to fan favorite Tommy DeVito as their starting quarterback, The Post confirmed.
Jones will be the third-stringer, as Drew Lock will remain the backup.
Former general manager Dave Gettleman once said that it would take three years “to find out how crazy I am” for reaching to pick Jones at No. 6 overall in 2019. It took twice as long as Gettleman forecasted and a lot of excuse-making, but the six-year Jones Era likely is over.
It would be shortsighted of the Giants (2-8) to even activate Jones for any of their remaining seven games, including Sunday against the Buccaneers.
DeVito – a fan favorite who went 3-3 as a rookie starter last season – can handle the rest of the season and help determine where within the top 10 picks the Giants are drafting in 2025.
The four-year, $160 million extension that Jones signed after his well-timed career year in 2022 – highlighted by a great performance in the Giants’ only playoff victory since winning Super Bowl XLVI in 2011 – includes a $23 million injury guarantee.
If he is injured and can’t pass a physical by March, then the Giants’ dead salary-cap charge for releasing him goes from a manageable $22 million to an unwieldy $45 million.
But benching the oft-injured Jones is a “football decision” – not strictly a business decision – as general manager Joe Schoen said last week.
David Sampson's path to becoming the former president of the Florida/Miami Marlins was paved with a lifelong drive to compete and succeed. Growing up small in stature, Sampson developed a chip on his shoulder and a determination to excel at every sport he played.
Attending a special summer camp focused on multi-sport competition, the young Sampson honed his skills across a range of disciplines, winning the overall competition despite not placing first in any individual event. This mentality of being well-rounded and refusing to accept defeat carried over into Sampson's business ventures after law school.
Sampson's first entrepreneurial endeavor involved selling same-day newspapers in Europe, which required him to get creative in securing a deal with the New York Times. Through persistence and an unconventional approach, Sampson was able to secure the necessary access, laying the groundwork for his future success.
Sampson's relationship with Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria led him to become involved in the team's operations, first with the Montreal Expos and then the Marlins themselves. Sampson navigated a complex franchise swap in 2002 that saw the Marlins, Red Sox, and Expos all change hands, ultimately leading to World Series victories for the Marlins in 2003 and the Red Sox.
As president of the Marlins, Sampson sought to create a winning culture, retaining iconic figures like Andre Dawson and Tony Perez while also making tough decisions to improve the team. He recounts the story of how the Marlins were able to win the 2003 World Series, overcoming a slow start to the season and capitalizing on key moments of luck and opportunity.
However, Sampson's tenure was not without its challenges. The 2012 season, in particular, proved to be a difficult one, with the team's high-profile offseason acquisitions failing to translate into success on the field. Sampson reflects on the franchise's struggles to build a sustainable winning model, often having to tear down and rebuild the roster.
Sampson's relationship with Derek Jeter, who acquired the Marlins in 2017, was a complex one. Jeter's desire to distance himself from the previous regime led to the dismissal of Sampson and the removal of many of the team's long-standing figures, a decision Sampson views as misguided.
Tragedy also struck the Marlins organization in 2016 with the untimely death of pitcher Jose Fernandez. Sampson speaks movingly about the impact of this loss, both on the team and on owner Jeffrey Loria, who ultimately decided to sell the franchise in the aftermath.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have embarked on a mission to become the most dominant and valuable franchise in sports. Through a strategic combination of record-breaking contracts, savvy player development, and global expansion, the Dodgers are poised to create a dynasty that could redefine the landscape of Major League Baseball.
Surpassing the Yankees
The Dodgers have set their sights on surpassing the New York Yankees as the most valuable sports franchise in the world. In the past 20 years, the Dodgers' franchise value has increased by an astonishing 1,089%, but they still trail the Yankees. However, the Dodgers are determined to change that.
Over the past 12 years, the Dodgers have made the playoffs 12 times, won their division 11 times, had the best record in baseball four times, and made the World Series four times - more than any other team. Yet, they were never able to achieve true dynasty status, until now.
The Offseason Spending Spree
Last offseason, the Dodgers made a bold move, signing the best player in baseball, Shohei Ohtani, to a $700 million contract - the largest in sports history. This was followed by the signing of Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto to a $325 million deal, the biggest pitching contract ever.
By signing Ohtani and Yamamoto, the Dodgers have instantly turned the entire country of Japan, with a population of 125 million, into die-hard Dodgers fans. Ohtani's first game as a Dodger garnered 17 million viewers in Japan, 37 times more than in the United States.
Deferring Contracts to Avoid Penalties
The Dodgers' strategy extends beyond just signing the best players. They have also utilized contract deferrals to avoid the MLB's competitive balance tax, which can become a massive financial burden. By deferring a significant portion of Ohtani's contract, as well as those of other key players, the Dodgers have been able to stay under the tax threshold while still assembling a powerhouse roster.
The Dodgers' success is not just about their spending power; it's also about their unparalleled player development. They have a proven track record of taking players who were struggling or overlooked by other teams and turning them into All-Stars. This ability to identify and cultivate talent is a key component of their dynasty-building strategy.
The Future is Bright
The Dodgers' dynasty is just beginning. With the potential addition of Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki, who could be acquired for a fraction of his market value, the Dodgers could further bolster their roster with another elite talent. Coupled with their financial resources, global reach, and player development expertise, the Dodgers are poised to dominate the sport for years to come.
As the rest of baseball grapples with the Dodgers' unstoppable rise, the future of the sport hangs in the balance. The Dodgers' formula of checkbook baseball, global expansion, and unparalleled player development may forever change the way the game is played and perceived.
The Rise of Roki Sasaki: A 23-Year-Old Pitching Phenom Heads to MLB
Corbin Burns, Alex Bregman, and Other Top Free Agent Predictions
As the MLB offseason rolls on, the stove is starting to heat up with a flurry of free agent activity. While the biggest name, Juan Soto, seems destined for the Mets, there are several other high-profile free agents making headlines.
The Boston Red Sox are poised to make a big splash this offseason, and I predict they will land star pitcher Corbin Burns. The Red Sox fan base has grown increasingly restless, watching the team let go of core players like Mookie Betts and Xander Bogaerts in recent years. I believe the Red Sox will make a statement by signing Burns to a long-term deal, solidifying their rotation for years to come.
Alex Bregman Staying with the Astros
There was speculation that Alex Bregman might be leaving the Houston Astros, but I don't see that happening. Bregman just feels like an Astro for life, and the team has made it clear he is a priority. While the Yankees could make a push, I think Bregman ultimately wants to remain in Houston and be a part of their continued success.
As for Max Freed, I don't believe he will stay with the Atlanta Braves. The Braves have a history of locking up their young stars early, but once a player reaches free agency, they typically let them walk. We saw this with Freddie Freeman and Dansby Swanson. I predict Freed will sign with the Chicago Cubs, who are ready to spend and need an ace to pair with Justin Steele and Shohei Ohtani.
Pete Alonso Staying with the Mets
When it comes to Pete Alonso, I don't see him going anywhere. Alonso is the definition of a New York Met, and I believe Mets owner Steve Cohen will make sure to keep the slugging first baseman in Queens for the long haul. Cohen has shown a willingness to spend, but he does so strategically, and keeping Alonso should be a priority.
However, the biggest free agent story of the offseason may be the arrival of Roki Sasaki, the 23-year-old pitching phenom from Japan. Sasaki's decision to come to MLB at such a young age is a bit surprising, as he could have waited two more years and signed a much more lucrative deal. But Sasaki seems driven to prove himself as the best player in the world, and he's willing to take the less financially rewarding path to get there.
Sasaki burst onto the scene in Japan's high school baseball tournament, Koshien, five years ago, throwing 500 pitches over an eight-day span, including a 12-inning, 21-strikeout complete game. In 2022, he threw a perfect game and then followed it up with eight perfect innings in his next start. His numbers in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) are staggering, leading the league in several key categories compared to stars like Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
My prediction is that Roki Sasaki will sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers have a strong Japanese presence with Shohei Ohtani and Yamamoto, and Sasaki's close relationship with Yu Darvish could be a factor. However, there is an argument that Sasaki may want to forge his own path and avoid the spotlight that comes with the Dodgers. Teams like the Padres, who have a connection with Darvish, could also be in the mix.
Regardless of where he ends up, Roki Sasaki is poised to be an immediate ace in MLB. At just 23 years old, he has the potential to be one of the best pitchers in the game for the next decade. His arrival is sure to be one of the biggest stories of the offseason.
The Toronto Blue Jays' Pursuit of Juan Soto: A Risky Gamble?
The Toronto Blue Jays' pursuit of superstar outfielder Juan Soto has come under intense scrutiny, with prominent voices in the baseball world questioning the team's strategy and long-term vision.
Questioning the Jays' Priorities
Ken Rosenthal, one of the top insiders in the sport, has put the Blue Jays on blast for their approach to the Soto sweepstakes. Rosenthal argues that the Jays would be better served by first securing the long-term future of their own homegrown superstar, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., before making a massive push for Soto.
Guerrero, 25, and Soto, 26, could both hit the open market after the 2024 season, leaving the Jays in a precarious position. Rosenthal points out that the Jays' farm system is not as highly regarded as those of their division rivals, the Yankees and Rays, raising concerns about the team's ability to remain competitive in the long run.
The Uncertain Future of the Jays' Front Office
Adding to the uncertainty is the unclear future of the Jays' front office leadership. Team president Mark Shapiro and general manager Ross Atkins are signed through 2025 and 2026, respectively, but their job security has been called into question due to the team's inconsistent performance in recent years.
Rosenthal suggests that the Soto pursuit may be an attempt by Shapiro and Atkins to save their jobs, rather than a long-term plan for the franchise. This raises concerns about the stability and direction of the organization, which could be a deterrent for a player like Soto, who is seeking a team committed to sustained success.
The Importance of Extending Guerrero
The article highlights the importance of the Jays extending Guerrero, who has developed into one of the game's elite players. Rosenthal argues that Soto would be more likely to commit to the Jays if their best player was already locked up long-term, providing a sense of stability and direction for the franchise.
The failure to extend Guerrero early in his career is seen as a misstep by the Jays' front office, one that could now come back to haunt them as they try to lure Soto to Toronto. The article suggests that Guerrero himself may be pushing the team to add more talent around him, further complicating the Jays' efforts to build a championship-caliber roster.
A Pivotal Crossroads for the Blue Jays
In the end, the Jays find themselves at a pivotal crossroads, with their pursuit of Soto highlighting the shortcomings of their roster construction and front office decision-making. As the team tries to navigate this critical offseason, the pressure is on Shapiro and Atkins to demonstrate a clear, long-term vision for the franchise and its star players.
A Thrilling Comeback: The Mets' Dramatic Path to the Postseason
Alonzo Ties It Up
In a tight one-nothing game, Pete Alonzo stepped up to the plate in the bottom of the ninth inning and delivered a game-tying home run, his second of the day. This blast not only evened the score, but also marked the 500th RBI of Alonzo's major league career - the fastest player to reach that milestone, doing so in just his 690th game.
Taylor Delivers the Game-Winner
With the game knotted at 1-1, Tyrone Taylor came through in the clutch, driving in the winning run with a base hit down the left field line to give the Mets their first victory of the season. It was a hard-fought win, with the Mets' pitching staff holding the Tigers in check until the offense could finally break through.
Trailing the Braves by six runs, the Mets mounted a furious comeback, sparked by Brandon Nemo's three-run homer that tied the game. Nemo would go on to hit two more home runs on the night, driving in five runs total and leading the Mets' charge.
Stewart's Go-Ahead Blast
DJ Stewart put the Mets ahead with a two-run home run in the ninth inning, giving them their first lead of the game. The Mets' power surge continued, with Stewart's blast capping off a back-and-forth affair that saw the teams trade blows.
In a milestone moment, Pete Alonzo crushed his 200th career home run, becoming just the fourth player in Mets history to reach that impressive feat. Alonzo's prodigious power has made him one of the most feared hitters in the game, and this achievement is a testament to his dominance.
Vientos Walks It Off
With the game tied in the 11th inning, Mark Vientos stepped up and delivered a two-run, walk-off homer to give the Mets the victory. It was a dramatic finish to a back-and-forth battle, and Vientos' heroics capped off an exciting night at Citi Field.
Francisco Lindor has been a driving force for the Mets all season, and he continued his MVP-caliber campaign with a pair of clutch hits, including a walk-off two-run single in the 11th inning to give the Mets the win. Lindor's ability to come through in the clutch has been a key factor in the Mets' success.
Alvarez's Walk-Off Blast
In a thrilling finish, rookie sensation Francisco Alvarez stepped up in the bottom of the ninth and launched a towering, game-winning home run to lift the Mets to victory. It was Alvarez's first career walk-off RBI, and a sign of the young slugger's immense potential.
Francisco Lindor has been on a tear, and he continued his hot streak with a pair of home runs, including a three-run shot that put the game out of reach for the Yankees. Lindor's power and production have been instrumental in the Mets' dominance over their crosstown rivals.
Peterson's Gem
In a crucial game with playoff implications, David Peterson turned in a masterful performance, tossing seven scoreless innings and striking out eight batters to lead the Mets to a victory over the Brewers. Peterson's dominant outing was a much-needed boost as the Mets pushed towards the postseason.
With the Mets trailing in the ninth inning, Francisco Lindor stepped up and delivered a towering, go-ahead two-run home run to put the Mets back on top. Lindor's heroics capped off a thrilling comeback, and his MVP-caliber season continued to shine through in the biggest moments.
The New York Mets' path to the postseason has been filled with dramatic comebacks, milestone achievements, and clutch performances from their star players. From Pete Alonzo's power displays to Francisco Lindor's MVP-worthy season, the Mets have showcased their resilience and talent, cementing their status as one of the most exciting teams in baseball.
The NBA's Troubling Trends: Load Management and Three-Point Shooting
The NBA is facing two significant issues that threaten the integrity of the game - load management and the proliferation of three-point shooting. As Charles Barkley, the Turner Sports Inside the NBA analyst, eloquently expresses, these problems are deeply concerning and need to be addressed.
Load Management: An Unacceptable Trend
Barkley is adamant that the practice of load management, where star players sit out games to manage their workload, is unacceptable. He argues that these players, who are making astronomical salaries of $80-100 million per year, should be playing basketball. Barkley questions the notion of fans paying exorbitant prices to watch these players sit out due to "fatigue."
"You can't ask people out here who go out here and get their hard-earned money on like real jobs, they say I'm coming to see this great player play, and he's like, 'I'm not gonna play because I was tired,'" Barkley says. "That's not sustainable."
Barkley suggests that the solution could be to incentivize players to play more games, perhaps through a bonus system. He believes that the current situation is an "embarrassment" and that players should be grateful for the opportunity to play basketball at the highest level, especially given the advancements in sports medicine and the financial rewards.
Barkley also expresses concern over the NBA's obsession with three-point shooting, which he believes has turned the game into a "three-point shooting contest." While he acknowledges that when the shots are falling, teams will win, he argues that teams need to have a "Plan B" when the three-pointers are not falling.
Barkley suggests that the league needs to find a way to address this issue, as the game has become too reliant on the three-point shot. He believes that the league needs to find a balance between the excitement of the three-point shot and the traditional elements of the game.
Despite these concerns, Barkley recognizes that this is the greatest time to play sports, both financially and from a health and medical standpoint. He acknowledges the advancements in sports medicine, the improved safety protocols, and the lucrative salaries that players are now earning.
However, Barkley believes that players should be grateful for these opportunities and should be willing to play the game they love, rather than sitting out due to load management. He argues that the current situation is an "embarrassment" and that the league needs to find a way to address these issues to preserve the integrity of the game.
There is a cultural phenomenon taking place in the sports world, and it involves one Donald J. Trump and the now-famous "Trump dance." The NFL, which has already shown its political colors in recent years, now finds itself at the center of this emerging trend.
The ratings drop during the Colin Kaepernick controversy was a warning sign for the league, and the recent Nick Bosa "MAGA Hat" incident could have been even more damaging. But the latest development may prove to be a true test for the NFL's leadership.
Over the weekend, several NFL players, including Brock Bowers of the Las Vegas Raiders, Darius Smith of the Detroit Lions, and UFC champion Jon Jones, were seen performing the "Trump dance" after their respective victories. This celebration, which involves a distinctive hand gesture and body movement, has become a symbol of support for the former president.
The reaction to this trend has been mixed, with rumors circulating that the NFL is considering banning the Trump dance. This would be a "monumental mistake," according to some commentators, who argue that it would be a violation of the players' free speech rights and a hypocritical move by the league.
The NFL's handling of this situation will be closely watched. The league has faced criticism for its handling of political issues in the past, such as the Kaepernick controversy and the league's response to player protests during the national anthem.
If the NFL does decide to ban the Trump dance, it could face a backlash from a significant portion of its fan base, who see the celebration as a sign of patriotism and a rejection of the league's perceived "woke" agenda. On the other hand, the league may feel compelled to take action to maintain its image and avoid further political controversy.
The Trump dance phenomenon is just the latest challenge facing the NFL. As the league continues to navigate the complex landscape of politics and sports, it will need to find a way to balance its business interests with the desires of its diverse fan base.
The future of the NFL may depend on its ability to navigate these treacherous waters and maintain its position as the premier sports league in the United States. Whether the league chooses to embrace or reject the Trump dance, the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the sport and its place in American culture.
The Miami Marlins' Stadium Saga: A Cautionary Tale
The Miami Marlins have found themselves in a peculiar predicament when it comes to their stadium situation and fan attendance over the past decade. This story is a cautionary tale for professional sports franchises and the challenges they face in building and maintaining a loyal fan base.
From Florida Marlins to Miami Marlins
The Marlins' journey began as the Florida Marlins, playing at the old Sun Life Stadium, a multi-purpose facility with numerous empty seats. In the mid-2000s, the team explored a potential move, as is common for teams nearing the end of their stadium deals, seeking taxpayer money to fund a new facility.
Ultimately, the Marlins rebranded as the Miami Marlins, moving into their new, state-of-the-art Marlins Park (now known as loanDepot Park) in 2012. The stadium featured a retractable roof, making it the only MLB stadium with a true window, and was located in the heart of the Latin community of Little Havana, seemingly positioning the team for success.
A Dismal Attendance Record
However, the move to the new stadium has not translated into increased fan engagement. In fact, the Marlins have struggled to attract crowds, with not a single season in the new stadium ranking in the top 15 for MLB attendance. This is a shocking statistic, as one would have expected the team to thrive in a brand-new, modern facility.
The attendance numbers tell a grim story. In their inaugural season at Marlins Park, the Marlins ranked 18th in MLB attendance. The following year, they plummeted to second-to-last, and for the past several seasons, they have consistently ranked 27th or 28th, dead last in the league.
Even before the move to the new stadium, the Marlins struggled to draw fans at their previous home, the multi-purpose Sun Life Stadium, often ranking near the bottom of the league in attendance.
The Marlins' stadium woes can be attributed, in part, to the design of Marlins Park. The retractable roof, intended to provide a controlled environment, has remained closed for the vast majority of the time, with the roof being open for only 2% of games in 2021. This is due to the high humidity and frequent thunderstorms that plague Miami during the summer months, the prime baseball season.
The stadium's small capacity, initially around 37,000, has also been a hindrance, with the team forced to close off the entire upper deck just a few years after the stadium's opening due to lack of attendance. The Marlins' offensive struggles have further exacerbated the problem, as the team has consistently ranked near the bottom of the league in runs scored since moving to Marlins Park.
The Marlins' on-field performance has also been a significant factor in their attendance woes. Since moving to Marlins Park, the team has made the playoffs only once, during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, and has not won a single playoff game. This lack of sustained success has made it challenging to build a loyal fan base.
Unlike other struggling teams that have embraced a full-scale rebuild, the Marlins have not been able to secure the high draft picks that could have provided them with elite talent. Instead, they have been stuck in a cycle of mediocrity, unable to consistently field a competitive team that would attract fans to the ballpark.
The Marlins' situation is a cautionary tale for professional sports franchises. The team's struggles to attract fans, despite a brand-new, state-of-the-art stadium, highlight the importance of considering the unique climate and cultural factors of a city when designing a sports venue.
As the Marlins enter the 11th season of Marlins Park's existence, the team finds itself in a peculiar predicament. With the stadium still relatively new, the Marlins must grapple with the challenges of a facility that seems ill-suited for their market and a team that has struggled to find sustained success on the field.
The future of the Marlins in Miami remains uncertain, and it will be interesting to see if the team can find a way to overcome these obstacles and reconnect with the local community. For now, the Marlins' story serves as a cautionary tale for any professional sports franchise seeking to build a new stadium and establish a loyal fan base.
The news has broken that the Pohlad family, who have owned the Minnesota Twins since 1984, have decided to sell the club. This marks the first time since the team's founding in 1901 that a Pohlad or Griffith will not own the franchise.
Former Twins manager Tom Kelly was consulted about the potential sale, and he shared some amusing anecdotes about his interactions with the Pohlad family over the years. Kelly recounted a story about team owner Carl Pohlad buying him a new suit one day, much to Kelly's surprise and bewilderment.
"Mr. Pohlad, he would come in the and sit in my office at the Dome periodically... he come in he had an Entourage with them... and then he would come in and I think he just just what I thought I just thought he wanted to get away and sit down and uh exhale sort of," Kelly said. "And uh I you know I'm a sort of a young fell 30 what the hell was I P 36 35 you're pretty young so uh I you know we two different backgrounds here I think so yeah so I never knew really what to say to him so I blur it out one day boy that Carl that's a nice suit and so he says you really like it I said yeah it's sharp sharp looking I said you had it on all day I don't see any wrinkles I said that's pretty pretty nice."
Kelly went on to describe how Pohlad then had a suit delivered to him, along with multiple dress shirts, ties, and even shoes. Kelly was overwhelmed by the generosity, saying "I was going oh my goodness gracious so now I'm walking back to the Dome I got four bags I'm carrying I'm going Jesus Christ I was just making conversation."
The potential sale of the Twins has Kelly and his former teammates reminiscing about their time with the organization. Kelly shared another story about former Twins player Gabby Hartnett, who told him to compliment Pohlad's car the next time he came around.
While Kelly is sad to see the Pohlad family depart, he is hopeful that the new owners will keep the team in Minnesota. With 15 years remaining on the Twins' lease at Target Field, and Hennepin County negotiating to extend it to 20 years, Kelly believes the team is unlikely to relocate.
However, the potential sale price of $1.5 billion presents a significant challenge for any prospective buyers. Kelly's former teammates Joe Mauer and Patrick Reusse joked that they likely don't have the financial resources to purchase the club.
As the Twins' future ownership hangs in the balance, Kelly's stories provide a glimpse into the team's rich history and the relationships he built with the Pohlad family over the decades. While change is on the horizon, the Twins' legacy in Minnesota appears secure.
The Uncertain Future of Women's Basketball Without Caitlyn Clark
The departure of Caitlyn Clark from the college basketball scene has left a significant void, and the early returns suggest that women's basketball may struggle to maintain its recent surge in popularity.
Angel Reese, the former star at LSU, has also moved on to the professional ranks, but her transition has not been as smooth. Reese was unable to sell out home games at LSU, and that lack of drawing power has carried over to the WNBA. The media's attempts to credit Reese and other players like Paige Bueckers for the rise in women's basketball popularity have been misguided, as Caitlyn Clark has been the driving force behind the elevation of both the college and professional game.
The recent nationally televised games featuring the former Iowa star Caitlyn Clark have been a stark contrast to her time at Iowa. Her first nationally televised game last season drew 583,000 viewers, while the recent matchup between Iowa and Virginia Tech on ESPN2 only managed 209,000 viewers. Similarly, the game between Iowa and Toledo on the Big Ten Network drew a meager 136,000 viewers.
These numbers highlight the heavy reliance of basketball, more than any other sport, on star power. Without Caitlyn Clark, women's college basketball is struggling to attract an audience, and this could foreshadow what might happen to the WNBA in the future.
The launch of the new women's basketball league, Unrivaled, in January could pose a significant challenge to the WNBA. Unrivaled will feature current WNBA players, and with the potential for players to participate in both leagues, the WNBA may face financial competition for the first time.
There are even concerns that the bad blood between TNT and the NBA could lead the network to use Unrivaled as a way to get revenge on the NBA by offering WNBA players significantly more money than the WNBA can. This scenario, while speculative, is a possibility that the WNBA and its commissioner, Cathy Engelbert, should be considering.
This season in women's college basketball is a critical one, as the ratings and audience engagement will likely serve as a barometer for the future of the WNBA. If the struggles continue without Caitlyn Clark, it could be a warning sign for the professional league, which has enjoyed a monopoly on women's professional basketball for the past 30 years.
The emergence of Unrivaled and the potential for financial competition could further complicate the landscape, and the WNBA must be prepared to adapt and evolve to maintain its relevance in the ever-changing world of women's sports.
The SEC Playoff Picture and the Rise of Trump Culture
The SEC Cluster
Clay Travis breaks down the current state of the SEC, which has six teams with two or fewer losses. This creates a complex scenario where it may be difficult for the playoff committee to determine which teams deserve to go to the postseason.
Travis analyzes the resumes of the top SEC teams, looking at their top 25 wins and losses. He concludes that Georgia is clearly the best team in the conference, having played the toughest schedule and only losing to top 25 opponents. He ranks the teams as:
He recounts his own experiences as a Mike Tyson fan growing up, and discusses the technical challenges of streaming major live events like the Tyson vs. Paul fight.
Overall, Travis sees the embrace of Trump by athletes as a major cultural shift, with the former president's influence continuing to grow despite efforts by the media to diminish it.
The Mets' dream offseason starts with signing superstar outfielder Juan Soto to a massive contract. Soto, who is just 26 years old, is one of the best hitters in baseball. His 162-game averages of 35 home runs, 100 RBIs, and a .953 OPS make him a generational talent.
The Mets are willing to break the bank to bring Soto to New York, offering him a 15-year, $75 million per year contract. This would eclipse the previous record for total guaranteed money, set by Shohei Ohtani's $700 million deal. Soto's combination of elite production and youth make him worth every penny.
With Soto in the fold, the Mets turn their attention to re-signing first baseman Pete Alonso. After a slight dip in production the last two seasons, the Mets believe Alonso is poised for a bounce-back year. They sign him to a 6-year, $144 million contract, keeping him in Queens through his prime years.
The Alonso and Soto duo, along with Francisco Lindor, gives the Mets one of the most fearsome lineups in baseball. This trio, combined with the team's young talent like Mark Vientos, should make the Mets a juggernaut offensively.
Acquiring Garrett Crochet
Turning to the pitching staff, the Mets pull off a trade with the Chicago White Sox to land left-handed starter Garrett Crochet. Crochet, 25, has electric stuff, hitting 99 mph with his fastball and flashing a devastating breaking ball.
The Mets send top prospect Jett Williams, along with a couple other high-upside minor leaguers, to the White Sox to acquire Crochet. This is a steep price, but the Mets view Crochet as a true ace-caliber pitcher who can anchor their rotation for years to come.
Rounding Out the Roster
With the big three of Soto, Alonso, and Crochet in place, the Mets turn their attention to filling out the rest of the roster. They sign free agent center fielder Cedric Mullins to a multi-year deal, providing strong defense up the middle.
The Mets also add veteran right-hander Shawn Manaea on a 4-year, $80 million contract to bolster the rotation. In the bullpen, they bring back Edwin Diaz and add several other high-upside arms like Danny Coulombe, Caleb Ferguson, and Brooks Raley.
When all is said and done, the Mets' dream offseason has them spending around $310 million, putting them over the luxury tax threshold but giving them a roster capable of contending for a World Series. With a core of Soto, Alonso, Lindor, and Crochet, the Mets are poised to be one of the most exciting teams in baseball for years to come.
The Tampa Bay Rays are facing an uncertain future, as the $1.3 billion stadium deal that was supposed to bring them a new ballpark by 2028 is now "all but dead," according to Tampa Bay Times columnist John Romano.
The delay in the County Commission's vote on the bonds to finance the new stadium, as well as the shifting political dynamics in the region, have cast doubt on whether the Rays will be able to remain in the Tampa Bay area. The aftermath of the recent hurricane, which caused significant damage to their current home, Tropicana Field, has only added to the challenges the team is facing.
The Rays have been in this position before, with their future in the region appearing uncertain. However, the current warning signs seem more legitimate than in the past, and the 1.3 billion dollar stadium project appears to be in real trouble.
If the Rays are unable to secure a new stadium in Tampa Bay or St. Petersburg, they could be forced to relocate or be sold and relocated by the current ownership group. This raises questions about the future of expansion in Major League Baseball, as several cities, including Nashville, Charlotte, Portland, and Salt Lake City, have expressed interest in acquiring a team.
Commissioner Rob Manfred has maintained that he will not authorize expansion until the Oakland A's and Tampa Bay Rays stadium situations are resolved. With the Rays' future still in limbo, it seems that expansion may be years away.
The Rays' immediate concerns, such as playing in the midsummer heat and dealing with daily late-afternoon rain showers at Steinbrenner Field, their temporary home for 2025, are lesser problems compared to the bigger picture. The question of where the Rays will ultimately end up is the more pressing issue, and the answer remains uncertain.
The NBA's Viewership Woes: A Troubling Start to the Season
The NBA is facing a concerning start to the 2022-23 season, with ratings and viewership numbers plummeting across the board. The opening night double-header on ESPN averaged just 1.6 million viewers, a 42% decrease from the previous year's debut. TNT's Thursday game between the Spurs and Mavericks saw a 29% drop, while the Friday game averaged only 830,000 viewers, fewer than a college football game on ESPN 2.
These numbers are particularly striking when compared to the WNBA's recent success. Caitlin Clark, a rising star in the WNBA, averaged 1.78 million viewers for the entire season, with her debut game drawing over 2 million viewers. This is a stark contrast to the NBA's historical dominance over the WNBA in terms of viewership.
"We're looking at the same thing everybody's running the same play at the damn top of the key dribble hand off," said Shaquille O'Neal, who believes the league's reliance on three-point shooting has made the game less exciting for viewers. "I think everybody's looking at the same thing and Steph Curry those guys mess it up like I don't mind Golden State back in the day sh but every team down a three-point shooter so why everybody has the same strategy I think viewership will continue to go down unless we switch things back up."
However, Charles Barkley offered a different perspective, arguing that the issue lies with players' unwillingness to play back-to-back games and the rising salaries that make it difficult for fans to afford attending games. "We have guys making 80 90100 million not playing back toback games that's to me I mean listen uh the three-point thing bothers me because of course if they going in you're G to win but you got to have a plan B," Barkley said.
The disconnect between players and fans is a significant concern, as fans are increasingly frustrated by the lack of commitment from highly-paid athletes. "When you hear professional athletes who are making millions of dollars complain about going to work it's a turnoff it's a turnoff to a lot of fans," the host noted.
Additionally, the fragmentation of the NBA's media rights, with games spread across various networks and streaming services, has made it more challenging for casual fans to keep up with the league. The upcoming media rights deal will only exacerbate this issue, further complicating the viewing experience for fans.
Despite these challenges, the NBA may not be too concerned about the viewership decline, as the league continues to expand globally and secure lucrative media deals. "The NBA will continue to make money and here's why," the host explained. "They have also started to expand more globally we hear Adam Sil talk about the NBA in Mexico and them playing games in Mexico the NBA in France the NBA in London the NBA in Abu Dhabi where they're playing more and more games in all of these remote locations."
Ultimately, the NBA faces a complex set of issues that threaten to undermine the league's popularity and engagement with fans. Whether it's the on-court product, the players' commitment, or the fragmented media landscape, the league must address these challenges to regain the excitement and loyalty that has historically defined the NBA experience.
I've been using it for years since February of 2021. It hasn't been perfect but since I workout almost everyday it was a welcomed addition to my day to day.
You just got DOOKed! @bitcoinman thinks your content is the shit. They have 1/400DOOK left to drop today.Learn all about this shit in the toilet paper! 💩
As I mentioned in a recent article, Solana is currently 35X larger than the SocialFi market cap. This reveals how early we are, especially as SocialFi is an entire sector, while Solana is a single blockchain. Establishing one’s reputation and influence in this new world is smart. As tokenized models experience adoption and growth, additional value is assigned by the market to the underlying token. #cent #sapphirecrypto
Thanks for all the great work you do. Still new here but I hope to invite more of my friends to join. It surprises me how such a great platform like this eluded me all these years
You just got DOOKed! @bradleyarrow thinks your content is the shit. They have 25/60DOOK left to drop today.Learn all about this shit in the toilet paper! 💩
You just got DOOKed! @bradleyarrow thinks your content is the shit. They have 24/60DOOK left to drop today.Learn all about this shit in the toilet paper! 💩
Music is a great tool for a lot of things which include to be a medium to evoke emotions and also portray expressions while not being bound by any language barriers or borders.
The world would be a lot different than what we know it to be right now if music never existed and possibly also have had a big impact on the present as music had a big impact of mankind from ancient times
What's up? It's already 10:00 p.m. and all of my daily tasks were done and it's time for relaxation. Right now I think keep threading and writing articles is the only task to complete my day. It was a productive day for me. What about you?
BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, has obtained a commercial license to operate in Abu Dhabi, further solidifying its presence in the Middle East.
You just got DOOKed! @pepetoken thinks your content is the shit. They have 11/400DOOK left to drop today.Learn all about this shit in the toilet paper! 💩
<blockquote>
<p dir="auto">Don't be shy - share some DIY!
<p dir="auto">You can query your personal balance by <code>!DIYSTATS
<span>
<a href="/@pepetoken">@pepetoken just sent you a DIY token as a little appreciation for your comment dear <a href="/@mcoinz79">@mcoinz79!
Feel free to multiply it by sending someone else !DIY in a comment :) You can do that x times a day depending on your balance so:
crypto traders are too much of the community.
once they become the 2% of the community. then and only then will we grow.
once again this is normal in this type of cycle.
History continues to repeat.
Got a new powerdown happening in a few hours. Gonna go buy a bunch of $LEO with a chunk of it. If you guys can hold off pumping the price until tomorrow...That would be great, thanks!
GM peeps!
My neighbor came home drunk; he has been knocking on his own door for over two hours now, and he lives alone! Should I go tell him that he's not at home?
Good Morning. Have a fun filled week.
LOL yea you should help bro out
Kindred spirits.
Can you identify?
Hahaha 🤣
Go ahead and give the important message to him🤣🤣
A gem so lowkey, you'll get Goosebumps
$SuperS
linktr.ee/supersonsolana
is there a quick way to bridge assets from any chain to Solana? Or can I do an OTC trade and get SUPERS for $HBD?
Working on some updates to the Claim Rewards feature on Referrals
We'll likely lower the threshhold for claiming (right now, it's set to $25)
How many leo can one earn per Active referral ??
Up to $50 per referral
You can go to the Referral page and click "How it Works" for the full breakdown on how that's achieved:
Participation in an online world will simultaneously be participation in an online economy. The Creator Economy will no longer be an isolated idea operating within limited infrastructure. Monetization models will be a part of everyday activities and infrastructures. #cent #sapphirecrypto
https://img.inleo.io/DQmYmTe9goXSycwVW635htTharYUuZwXbs9oUS1JX8dJyVM/YouTube%20Channel%20Art%20(60).jpg
A very important graph.
https://inleo.io/threads/view/onlyhive/re-leothreads-nnhqst2k
Today seems to be a Monday or start of the week with some green candles. I expected more for the weekend, I hope that during this week my expectations will be met.
#crypto
Let's hope that these candles continue to rise.
#2FiFPSN3Ewwr28sozqZYSroz16XFLXRo3xAE1wi8EAm8fW3RAiWq3ND2ZmbUQoayzW6cFWp88H9xmxQ7tmyn1sEcKJFBYDCTibc8szFpsnRZsyhY3xRgqYSThE2zesTGs1DmusYwQWKUyB7on3ivrML2FqMAUF6XLsqK1xEWzVd2T82rjcPJndBaPva3X4ySC1du69mm7A6d6sQ5TCFDi21Mh
Great to see that with the new subscriptions the services reached 106, thus a revenue stream of $530. That is quite encouraging and I am sure that in future new subscriptions will pop up and the offered perks will become creative.
1/5 🧵
Looking at the 2025 list of newcomers and holdovers being voted on to make it into the MLB Hall of Fame
In my opinion, Ichiro is an automatic no-brainer on the list. Hands down. Not really seeing anyone else that is a slam dunk especially if they are associated with the steroid era and was accused of using it.
CC and/or King Felix for the newcomers wouldn't surprise me and on the holdovers Beltran and/or Hunter wouldn't shock me.
But if I had to pick only one - Ichiro would be the unanimous vote.
Here is an overview of the players on the 2025 MLB Hall of Fame ballot, which includes both newcomers and holdovers:
#mlb #sports
2/5 -🧵
Newcomers:
3/5 -🧵
Newcomers (continued)
4/5 -🧵
Holdovers:
5/5 -🧵
Holdovers (continued)
Saw the list on The Athletic and on ESPN, but the generated the list on Grok.
I’m worried for the Corg’s safety this morning, she claimed my lap first, Jojo looks not at all amused 😆
#freecompliments #bbh #katshouse
There is going to war ;) lol Morning Special K :)
More like a rapid retreat with acoustical yipping 😆 Morning Professor B!
!PIZZA
hahahahha. I can see it in my head !BBH !DOOK
You just got DOOKed!
@bradleyarrow thinks your content is the shit.
They have 19/60 DOOK left to drop today.
Learn all about this shit in the toilet paper! 💩
@bradleyarrow likes your content! so I just sent 1 BBH(19/100)@generikat! to your account on behalf of @bradleyarrow.
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Welcome to the daily sports #threadcast! Here we will discuss, follow and share all the news from the sporting world.
We want to make #inleo the premier destination for the #sports community by establishing the Leo platform as the hub for sports updates
Edition #134
November 18
I think @coyotelation likes the summarize feature on videos.
Imagine when Portuguese is available? I follow some sports channels here in Brazil. It will be an explosion of summaries.
With me the bot will work even harder. LOL
LOL we will see how long it takes for him to get it running.
!summarize
Part 1/3:
Aroldis Chapman's Blazing Fastball
Aroldis Chapman, the 36-year-old flamethrower, has been defying his age with the sheer velocity he can still muster from his left arm. In a recent outing, he reached a staggering 104 mph on the radar gun, leaving onlookers in awe.
This blistering heater is not an isolated incident for Chapman. Throughout his career, he has consistently been one of the hardest throwers in the game, regularly reaching triple digits on the radar. His ability to maintain this level of velocity, even at 36 years old, is a testament to his exceptional physical conditioning and pitching prowess.
Part 2/3:
The sheer power and precision of Chapman's fastball were on full display, as he struck out hitter after hitter with his blazing heat. The commentator couldn't help but express his excitement, describing the experience as "what baseball is all about."
But the highlight of the day came when Chapman reached back and unleashed a 105.5 mph fastball, leaving the crowd in disbelief. This was a truly remarkable feat, showcasing the incredible physical abilities of this veteran pitcher.
Part 3/3:
Aroldis Chapman's performance on this day was a masterclass in power pitching, a testament to his enduring dominance in the game of baseball. His ability to consistently reach such staggering velocities, even at the age of 36, is a testament to his dedication, skill, and unwavering competitive spirit.
!summarize
Part 1/4:
A Day of Dominant Pitching and Explosive Offense
Conteras Hits Opposite-Field Home Run
In the early innings, Conteras hit an opposite-field home run that splashed down in the pool, showcasing his power to all fields. Later, he made a great throw to second base to record an out.
Vlad Guerrero Jr. Hits Two Mammoth Home Runs
Vlad Guerrero Jr. had a monster day at the plate, launching two towering home runs. The first was a laser shot into the second deck in left field, while the second was a rocket to dead center that traveled 441 feet. Guerrero also made a fantastic diving play in the field to take a hit away.
Ketel Marte Leads Diamondbacks Onslaught
Part 2/4:
Ketel Marte had a perfect 3-for-3 day, including a home run and a spectacular defensive play to end the game. His offensive outburst and defensive prowess were key in the Diamondbacks' dominant performance.
Bobby Witt Jr. Reaches 100 RBIs, Hits Grand Slam
Bobby Witt Jr. continued his impressive season, driving in his 100th RBI with a solo home run. He later crushed a grand slam, showcasing his power and ability to deliver in big moments.
Jose Ramirez Joins 30-30 Club
Jose Ramirez became the first Guardian to ever have two 30-30 seasons, further cementing his status as one of the game's elite players. He hit a pair of home runs, including a towering shot down the right field line.
Shohei Ohtani Steals 50th Base, Hits Home Run
Part 3/4:
Shohei Ohtani continued to rewrite the record books, becoming the first player to ever join the 50-50 club (50 home runs and 50 stolen bases) in a single season. His combination of power and speed is unparalleled, and he capped off his historic day with a towering home run.
Aaron Judge Hits 58th Home Run, Makes Spectacular Catch
Aaron Judge continued his MVP-caliber season, blasting his 58th home run of the year. He also made a spectacular leaping catch, showcasing his all-around talent. The crowd chanted "MVP" in appreciation of his dominant performance.
Pitching Dominance Across the League
Part 4/4:
Several pitchers put on dominant displays, including Chris Sail, who struck out 12 batters, and Zack Wheeler, who recorded 10 strikeouts. Ryan Helsley also set a new franchise record for saves in a single season with 49.
This was a day filled with incredible individual performances, both on the mound and at the plate, as players continued to push the boundaries of what's possible in Major League Baseball.
!summarize
Part 1/4:
Dodgers Complete Stunning Comeback, Defeat Yankees in Game 5 to Win World Series
The Los Angeles Dodgers have done it. After falling behind 5-0 early, they stormed back with a remarkable five-run fifth inning and held on to defeat the New York Yankees 7-6 in Game 5, clinching their eighth World Series championship.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the Yankees jumping out to a quick 3-0 lead on back-to-back home runs from Aaron Judge and Jazz Chisholm. Garrett Cole was dominant early, retiring the first 15 batters he faced. But the Dodgers' resilience and the Yankees' uncharacteristic defensive lapses turned the tide.
Part 2/4:
In the pivotal fifth inning, the Dodgers took advantage of two Yankee errors to score five runs and tie the game. Freddie Freeman delivered the big blow, a two-run single that knotted the score at 5-5. Teoscar Hernandez's RBI double then gave the Dodgers their first lead of the night.
"This one inning is a comedy of errors," said the announcer. "And if they lose this game, it's their own fault."
The Yankees fought back, regaining the lead in the sixth on a sacrifice fly from John Carlos Stanton. But the Dodgers refused to go away, tying the game again in the eighth on a sacrifice fly from Gavin Lux.
Part 3/4:
With the game tied 6-6 in the ninth, the Dodgers turned to veteran reliever Walker Buehler, who had not pitched in a game since June 2018. Buehler was unfazed by the moment, retiring the side in order to seal the championship for Los Angeles.
"The Dodgers are turning to Walker Buehler out of the bullpen for the first time since the end of June in 2018," the announcer noted. "Breaking pitch, grounded to third, one gone in the ninth. The Dodgers are one out away from a championship."
And that's exactly what happened, as Buehler got the final out, sparking a wild celebration on the Dodgers' side of the field. After falling behind early, they had completed an improbable comeback to capture their first World Series title since 1988.
Part 4/4:
"Start the party, Los Angeles," the announcer exclaimed. "Your Dodgers have won the World Series. They've done it. They finished the job and give Los Angeles the parade it's been waiting for."
It was a stunning turnaround, a testament to the Dodgers' resilience and the Yankees' uncharacteristic mistakes. But in the end, the Dodgers emerged victorious, adding another championship to their storied franchise. The city of Los Angeles can now celebrate its newest baseball champions.
!summarize
Part 1/3:
Defensive Highlights Showcase Incredible Plays
In the world of baseball, the defensive side of the game often goes unnoticed, overshadowed by the flashy home runs and high-scoring affairs. However, the transcript provided showcases a series of remarkable defensive plays that deserve recognition for their sheer athleticism and game-changing impact.
Robbing a Home Run
Adam Frasier's leaping catch at the wall to rob a home run and double off the runner at first base is a prime example of defensive excellence. The sheer timing and coordination required to make such a play is a testament to Frasier's skills and awareness on the field.
Turning a Double Play
Part 2/3:
The transcript highlights several instances of impressive double plays, where infielders seamlessly transition from fielding the ball to making accurate throws to complete the outs. The play by Torrens, where he had to make a quick decision and throw without a perfect setup, showcases the quick thinking and execution required to turn a crucial double play.
Defensive Gems
The transcript also features a number of defensive gems, such as Taylor Walls' diving stop and double play, and Jose Siri's strong throw to third base to complete a double play. These plays not only save runs but also shift the momentum of the game, demonstrating the importance of defensive prowess in baseball.
Unbelievable Triple Plays
Part 3/3:
Perhaps the most remarkable defensive highlights in the transcript are the triple plays. Turning a triple play is an incredibly rare feat, requiring perfect execution and awareness from the fielders. The plays described, where the defense was able to capitalize on baserunning mistakes and turn the triple play, are truly awe-inspiring and showcase the highest level of defensive mastery.
Throughout the transcript, the commentators' excitement and admiration for these defensive plays is palpable, underscoring the significance of these moments in the game. These highlights serve as a reminder that baseball is not just about the offensive fireworks, but also the unsung heroes on the defensive side who make game-changing plays and contribute to their team's success.
!summarize
Part 1/3:
The Next Great Generational Talent from Japan: Roki Sasaki
Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old pitcher from Japan, is poised to be the next big thing in Major League Baseball. Currently employed by the Marines in Japan, Sasaki is generating a lot of excitement and speculation around his potential move to the MLB.
Sasaki is graded highly across the board, with many experts touting him as the next great generational talent to come out of Japan. The discussion has already begun around where he might end up, with some speculating that he could join fellow Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani and Yusei Yamamoto in Los Angeles. Others have pointed out that Sasaki grew up as a fan of Yu Darvish, leading to speculation that the San Diego Padres could be in the mix.
Part 2/3:
However, the Padres' recent spending habits have been a point of concern, as they have not been as active in the free agent market as they were a few years ago when they signed a 31-year-old shortstop to an 11-year contract. This has led some to believe that San Diego may not be as big a player in the Sasaki sweepstakes as other teams.
Nonetheless, Sasaki's arrival in the MLB is highly anticipated, as he represents a new generation of Japanese players who are not bound by the same restrictions as their predecessors. Unlike players like Daisuke Matsuzaka, who had to go through an expensive posting system, Sasaki will be able to join the MLB as a free agent, which could open the door for a wider range of teams to compete for his services.
Part 3/3:
The experts are intrigued by Sasaki's arsenal, which includes a 100+ mph fastball, a slider, and a split-finger fastball that sets him apart from other pitchers. His delivery and overall presence on the mound have drawn comparisons to Ohtani, with some noting similarities to former MLB pitcher Tony Gonsolin.
As the MLB community eagerly awaits Sasaki's arrival, the key will be keeping him healthy and ensuring that he can maintain his dominant performance over the long haul. With the potential to become a true superstar, Sasaki's journey to the MLB will be one to watch closely in the coming years.
!summarize
Part 1/3:
Evander Holyfield Prepares for Jake Paul Fight at 58 Years Old
Evander Holyfield, the legendary boxer, is set to step back into the ring after a 19-year hiatus. At the age of 58, he will be facing off against the controversial YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul, in a highly anticipated matchup.
Why Now and Why Jake Paul?
Holyfield explains that the decision to fight Jake Paul was a "no-brainer" for him. As Paul's popularity has grown, Holyfield saw it as a good opportunity to continue fighting. He acknowledges that Paul's social media presence and call-outs of high-profile fighters like Canelo Alvarez have been controversial, but Holyfield believes everyone is entitled to their opinion.
The Challenges of Training at 58
Part 2/3:
Preparing for this fight has not been an easy task for Holyfield. He admits that the training process is "not fun" and that he has faced significant challenges. Training alongside younger, heavier fighters has been tough, and his trainers have not been kind, pushing him to the limit to see if he will quit. However, Holyfield believes he has passed the test, and he is ready to step into the ring.
Proving Himself, Not Others
Holyfield is not concerned with proving anyone wrong about his age or abilities. His focus is solely on proving himself right, on showing that he is the person he believes he is. He doesn't care about changing anyone's opinion; his only goal is to demonstrate his own capabilities.
Expectations for the Fight
Part 3/3:
When asked about how he thinks the fight will go, Holyfield is confident that Jake Paul is "in a lot of trouble." He is ready to step into the ring and show that he can still party with the big boys, even at 58 years old.
!summarize
Part 1/3:
The Rise of Women's Boxing: A Watershed Moment
Capitalizing on a Historic Fight
The time has finally come this Friday, and I'm ready to go in there and put on a show for the fans. The first fight was just magnificent - a real watershed moment for women's boxing. Over the last couple of years, I believe female boxing has capitalized on that 100%.
"Female boxing has evolved since then. It takes time, little by little, it's getting better and better. You're seeing Champions fight Champions, putting on amazing shows, going out there showcasing that women can fight, women can put on a show, women can sell tickets. So I think it's getting better, and it's only going up from there."
Earning Bigger Paychecks
Part 2/3:
While I won't reveal the exact details of my payday, I can say it's a career-high and definitely in the seven figures. I'm not here to brag, but to showcase that us women can make that kind of money. It's about working hard, believing in yourself, and having a great team.
Facing a Formidable Opponent
Katie Taylor has suffered a loss, but she's still a warrior, a fighter that never leaves you. The fact that she's taking this rematch with me shows the type of person she is. I'm not going to predict a win for myself - the story could play out just like her rematch with Chantal Cameron, where she avenged her previous loss.
Making History, Again
Part 3/3:
This fight on Friday is going to be even better than the last. It's going to be another huge event for women's boxing, and I'm honored to be a part of history once again. I definitely feel I'm a better boxer today than I was a couple of years ago, and I've made improvements from fight to fight.
Expecting an Epic Clash
For those who don't know myself or Katie, they can expect another fight that's a contender. Our styles blend very well together, and it's going to be a fight where both fighters will have to show a lot of heart and grit. There's going to be great quality skill on both sides, and we're going to see another epic fight on Friday.
!summarize
Part 1/5:
Embracing Criticism and Chasing World Champion Dreams
Jake Paul, the polarizing figure in the world of boxing, is unfazed by the criticism he receives from the "boxing purists." In a candid interview, he addresses the backlash and shares his unwavering ambition to become a world champion.
Part 2/5:
Paul acknowledges that his brand has become synonymous with the "comment section," which is often filled with "hate, accusations, and lies." However, he sees this as part of the game he's playing, and he's determined to come out on top.
Part 3/5:
Paul's complex personality and diverse interests, from entrepreneurship to spirituality, challenge the public's perception of him. He refuses to be pigeonholed and embraces the different facets of his identity.
The influence of his upbringing, marked by a strict father, has shaped Paul's resilience and ambition. He acknowledges the positive and negative aspects of this experience, using it as a driving force to achieve his goals.
Part 4/5:
Despite the criticism, Paul remains undeterred in his pursuit of boxing greatness. He has called out top-tier fighters like Canelo Alvarez, and he's determined to prove his doubters wrong.
Part 5/5:
Jake Paul's journey in the boxing world is marked by a relentless drive, a willingness to embrace criticism, and a desire to redefine the perception of who he is. As he continues to chase his world champion dreams, the boxing community can expect more surprises and controversy from this complex and multifaceted athlete.
!summarize
Part 1/4:
Catching Up with Ella: A Friendly Conversation
It's great to see you, Ella! We haven't caught up in a while, so I'm excited to get to know you a little better today. Let's dive right in and play a game of "unlock" to learn more about you.
The Lock Screen
Your lock screen is a classic photo of your parents on their wedding day. I love the old-school vibe of it - the headpieces are so fashionable. It's clear that your family is incredibly close, and they're a big part of your life. Your parents seem to be your biggest fans, traveling everywhere to support you. That's really special.
Spreading Joy
Part 2/4:
For our next task, we're going to spread some love and joy. You've chosen to write a little poem for your friend, Tuni. The rhyme you came up with is perfect: "Hey Ella, I think you're Stella, what are you up to? I miss you." I'm sure Tuni will appreciate the thoughtful gesture, even if it catches her by surprise.
Music and Memories
Your most-played song right now is full of T's, which makes sense since you mentioned putting on music as soon as you wake up. It's a great way to start the day and get pumped up for training.
Part 3/4:
The last selfie you took was from a recent trip to the US for a big USWNT game. It looks like an incredible experience, both on the field and exploring the city. I'd love to see any behind-the-scenes photos or videos you have from that trip - the one with the man feeding the pigeons sounds particularly amusing!
Celeb Interactions
It's so cool that you've had interactions with David Beckham on Instagram. As a fellow football fan, I can imagine that was a pretty surreal experience. If you could have one dream follow on social media, you've chosen Luke Hames, which is a great pick. He seems like a really genuine and inspiring person.
Part 4/4:
Overall, it's been wonderful catching up with you, Ella. You have such a warm and positive energy, and it's clear you have a lot of love and support from your family and friends. I'm grateful we got to reconnect and learn more about your life. Here's to many more adventures and memories to come!
Nenê admite possibilidade de adiar aposentadoria e jogar mais uma temporada
Principal referência técnica do Juventude desde a temporada passada, Nenê pode prorrogar a sua passagem pelo clube por mais um ano. Em entrevista coletiva na manhã desta segunda-feira, o meia de 43 anos foi questionado sobre a aposentadoria ao final da temporada e não descartou a possibilidade de permanecer no clube em 2025.
#sports #juventude #hivebr
– Acabei de acordar e vocês já seguem com essas perguntas (risos). É uma possibilidade. Não sei ainda, mas como eu falei, o foco agora é a permanência aqui na Série A. Eu estou bastante feliz aqui, acredito que eu vou ver como eu vou me sentir fisicamente. Mas é difícil falar agora, ainda mais assim, antes de um momento tão importante. Mas é uma possibilidade, sim – declarou o camisa 10.
Nenê chegou ao Alfredo Jaconi nas rodadas iniciais da Série B de 2023 e foi peça fundamental na conquista do acesso sob o comando do técnico Thiago Carpini. Naquela temporada, disputou 28 jogos com sete gols e mais sete assistências. O número só não foi maior por causa de uma lesão nas rodadas finais da competição, que tirou o meia dos últimos quatros jogos do time.
Após as boas aparições, o "garotinho" estendeu o vínculo com o Papo por mais uma temporada. Apesar de menos decisivo, já esteve em campo em 32 partidas no ano, com dois gols e mais quatro passes para gols. Durante o período no Alfredo Jaconi, Nenê comemorou outra marca expressiva. No primeiro jogo da final do Gauchão contra o Grêmio, atingiu mil jogos como profissional.
À disposição do técnico Fábio Matias, Nenê é peça importante na luta pela permanência do Juventude na Série A do Campeonato Brasileiro. O time de Caxias do Sul tem um confronto direto contra o Grêmio na próxima quarta-feira, às 19h, na Arena.
A cinco rodadas do fim, veja quantos times no Z-4 do Brasileirão escaparam do rebaixamento
O Brasileirão retorna nesta quarta-feira, após a última pausa para a data Fifa, e se encaminha para a reta final. A cinco rodadas do fim, a briga nas duas pontas da tabela está acirrada. Na parte de baixo, sete times estão separados por apenas três pontos, sendo dois deles dentro do Z-4.
#sports #serieb #seriea
No sábado, o Athletico-PR venceu o Atlético-MG no último jogo atrasado, deixou a zona da degola e colocou o Juventude, por conta dos critérios de desempate. Quatro equipes somam os mesmos 37 pontos. Agora, os 20 times da Série A estão com 33 rodadas completas.
Nas 18 edições anteriores do Brasileirão de pontos corridos com 20 clubes (desde 2006), em 13 ao menos uma equipe que estava no Z-4 a cinco rodadas do fim conseguiu escapar da queda – 15 equipes no total.
Por duas vezes na mesma edição, dois times saíram da parte de baixo e evitaram o rebaixamento: 2010 (Atlético-MG e Avaí) e 2013 (Criciúma e Fluminense). O Tricolor carioca, inclusive, tem uma das campanhas mais emblemáticas, em 2009, quando chegou a ter 98% de chance de cair.
!summarize
Part 1/2:
Arsenal's Struggle for Consistency
Arsenal's recent performance has been a mixed bag, with the team failing to capitalize on their lead against their latest opponents. In the bigger picture, the Gunners find themselves in a precarious position, having faced a challenging schedule with six of the last season's top 10 teams, five of which were away matches.
The absence of their leading player, Martin Odegaard, has been felt, but the team is now welcoming back their main stars. However, the recent injuries to Saka and Dean have raised concerns, though the international break may provide a much-needed respite.
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One area of concern for Arsenal is the lack of competition within the squad. The potential signing of Netto could have provided the necessary depth and competition to push the players to perform at their best. This lack of competition may be hindering the team's progress.
As the season progresses, every game becomes increasingly crucial for Arsenal. According to the expert's assessment, the team cannot afford to lose any more matches, as they will need to win against both Liverpool and Manchester City to keep their hopes alive. The Gunners are in a precarious position, and the upcoming fixtures will be a true test of their resilience and ability to bounce back.
!summarize
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The Continuing Nightmare for Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti, the experienced manager of Real Madrid, is facing a challenging situation at the club. Despite having a wealth of talented players at his disposal, Ancelotti seems to be struggling to find the right balance and get the best out of his squad.
The departure of key players like Toni Kroos has left a void in the midfield, and Ancelotti is finding it difficult to replace the leadership and technical control that Kroos provided. The arrival of Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé has added further complexity to the team's dynamics, as Ancelotti tries to integrate these new players into the system.
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Bellingham, in particular, has been a challenge for Ancelotti. The young midfielder thrived in a more advanced, "false nine" role last season, but is now finding it difficult to adapt to the demands of Ancelotti's system. Similarly, Mbappé has struggled to find his place on the pitch, with the French striker going through long stretches of the game without touching the ball.
The issues at Real Madrid extend beyond just the players on the pitch. The backroom staff and the team as a whole seem to be facing a lot of internal turmoil, with "a lot of pointing fingers" and a general sense of instability.
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Ancelotti, known for his calm presence and ability to navigate difficult situations, has faced similar challenges in the past, such as during his time at Everton. However, the pressure at Real Madrid is immense, and the expectations are high. The club's supporters and the media will be closely watching Ancelotti's ability to turn things around and find the right balance in his team.
As the season progresses, Ancelotti will need to find a way to get the best out of his talented squad, while also addressing the structural and leadership issues within the team. The arrival of Mbappé may provide a temporary boost, but the long-term success of Real Madrid will depend on Ancelotti's ability to create a cohesive and well-functioning unit.
!summarize
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Embracing the Premier League Dream: Morgan Gibbs-White's Journey
Morgan Gibbs-White, the 22-year-old Aston Villa midfielder, has had a whirlwind journey in the world of football. From relocating for loan spells to securing a move to the Premier League, he has navigated the challenges of the sport with determination and a deep passion for the game.
Reflecting on his time in the Midlands, Gibbs-White expresses his appreciation for being back home, acknowledging the sacrifices he's made to pursue his football career. "It's been crazy, I think my family probably appreciate more me being around the corner and that now, but it's what you have to do in football. It's just part of the job you have to go different places and stuff."
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Despite the challenges of constantly moving, Gibbs-White embraced the experiences, believing they have shaped him into the player he is today. "I wouldn't be the person I am if I didn't go on them loans and get them experiences. So it was definitely definitely needed for me."
The decision to join Aston Villa, his hometown club, was a tough one, but an opportunity he couldn't pass up. "When a team like Villa comes, it's impossible to say no, and especially being from Birmingham as well, it was like a perfect reality."
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Gibbs-White's performances this season have exceeded his own expectations, and he credits his manager's unwavering belief and attention to detail as key factors in his development. "His detail is next level, and you're just like, 'Wow, this is the real deal.' And he does that 100 times a week, and it just brings out the best in you."
The Premier League experience has been both surreal and exhilarating for Gibbs-White, who still finds himself in awe of the caliber of players he faces each week. "Every time it just gets a bit better, like it doesn't wear off, and to be a part of that is something I didn't expect to happen so quick."
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Gibbs-White's journey has been shaped by the players he looked up to growing up, such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar, and he strives to emulate their freedom and expression on the pitch. "I like the idea of players just expressing themselves and playing with sheer freedom, and I try and bring that freedom into my game as well."
As Gibbs-White continues to impress in the Premier League, the talk of a potential England call-up has started to grow. While he acknowledges the fierce competition for a spot, he remains determined to knock on the door and represent his country. "It's a goal of mine, it's an ambition of mine. I hopefully I'm knocking at the door and I'm not too far away on that."
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The prospect of potentially playing alongside his fellow Birmingham native, Jude Bellingham, for England is a tantalizing one for Gibbs-White. "It would be a nice moment for the Midlands, but also for Birmingham to have you both in there."
Gibbs-White's journey is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and unwavering passion for the game. As he continues to shine in the Premier League, the future looks bright for this young talent, who is determined to make the most of his opportunities and fulfill his dreams.
!summarize
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Jabbi Alonso: Europe's Most Sought-After Manager
There's a sense that Jabbi Alonso has always been destined to be a great manager. He had an illustrious playing career, winning the Champions League, Spanish title, German title, and the World Cup and European championships with Spain. He worked under the finest managers of his generation, including Carlo Ancelotti, Rafa Benitez, Jose Mourinho, and Pep Guardiola – a set of references that is hard to beat.
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Despite his impressive pedigree, Alonso took his time in transitioning to management. He did his badges and worked with the youth teams at Rayo Vallecano, the club where he had initially come through, before taking his first senior job at Bayer Leverkusen. This proved to be the perfect environment for the young, ambitious, and still-learning manager.
In his first season at Leverkusen, Alonso took a team that was languishing in the relegation zone of the Bundesliga and guided them back up to the top half of the table. In his second season, he won the title, giving the club its first German championship in its 120-year history. It's not hard to see why clubs are so keen on him.
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Alonso's teams play attractive, tactically astute, and adventurous football, but he also retains certain core elements. He wants his team to dominate the ball, which is no surprise to anybody who watched him as a player. However, he's also shown an ability to make use of players who thrive on the counterattack, like Jeremy Frong, the Dutch right-back who has been one of the standout players at Leverkusen under Alonso. He's also got the best out of Victor Bonface, one of that rare breed of true number nines in European football.
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Alonso's stock has been rising, and the offers have started to pour in. Two of his former teams, Liverpool and Bayern Munich, came closest to hiring him. Alonso has never hidden the fact that he has developed a strong bond with the clubs he played for, and this has made him an attractive candidate for these top clubs.
Liverpool and Bayern Munich both made overtures to Alonso, but he made it clear that he had given his word to Leverkusen that he would give them another season, and he had no intention of breaking that. This loyalty and commitment to his current club have only added to Alonso's reputation as a manager who can connect with the fans and the club hierarchy.
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The crucial thing for clubs like Liverpool, Bayern, and Real Madrid is the bond Alonso has not only with the fans but with the club hierarchy. He is seen as someone who can connect the boardroom with the terraces and do it almost instantly – a precious quality for any manager at a top club where the pressure is so high and the need to deliver is so immediate.
The risk, of course, is that managerial careers work on timings. Liverpool and Bayern may well not be available at the end of this season, as they have already appointed new managers in Anfield and the Allianz Arena, respectively. However, Alonso's name may still be at the top of the list for another top job – potentially at Real Madrid, where Carlo Ancelotti's second spell has brought endless success.
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If Ancelotti decides to step away this summer, it seems clear that Alonso is the obvious successor. By that stage, he will have another year's experience, having taken Leverkusen into the Champions League and hopefully deep into the competition. He may well feel that he's ready then, not just for another step up, but for possibly the biggest step of them all.
!summarize
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The Importance of the Manager, Not the System
It's not about the system, it's about the manager coming in and getting the absolute best out of the group of players they inherit. The new manager at Manchester United has a difficult job ahead, but as a United fan, one must be optimistic that they can turn things around.
Implementing a new system, such as switching from a back four to a back three, is not an easy task in the middle of the season. It requires a lot of practice on the training pitch to get the timing and positioning right. The two center-backs on the outside of the middle one, for example, need to be in sync with the wing-backs to cover the spaces.
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While the new manager's philosophy at Sporting was to dominate games with high energy and a high defensive line, that may not be the best approach for the current United squad. The manager will need to be intelligent and tweak the system to suit the players he has. The most important thing is that the work ethic and intensity increase, and the team becomes more organized and harder to play against.
Bruno Fernandes' Role as Captain
Bruno Fernandes has not been at his best this season, but when the team needs someone to be brave and creative, he steps up. There may be critics who say he doesn't fit into a structured system and that his emotional outbursts as captain are a problem, but this is more a reflection of his desire to win than anything else.
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Fernandes is a leader in the dressing room, particularly with the young players, and he leads by example on the pitch with his quality and range of passing. In a more organized team that suits him better, his emotional outbursts and frustrations are likely to soften, as he'll be winning more games and playing in a more structured environment.
The weight of the Manchester United shirt is heavy, and Fernandes, as the captain, can certainly wear that shirt. His desire to turn things around is a positive, and the new manager will need to harness that passion and channel it in a way that benefits the team.
!summarize
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Instant Connection and Shared Passions: The Story of Me and Morgan
When me and Morgan first met, we were both on loan at Lincoln. From the moment he arrived, we just clicked. I think it was because we're from similar parts of the world - he's from Birmingham and I'm from Nottingham, so we had a lot in common.
Morgan's a funny guy, and we really enjoyed each other's company, both on and off the pitch. We had a great connection when we played together, and I think that's what really made our friendship take off.
Footballing Idols and Finishing Abilities
When it comes to footballing idols, I'd say my idol is Cristiano Ronaldo, while Morgan's might be Ronaldinho. But when it comes to finishing, I'd have to say I'm the better finisher, even though Ronaldo is pretty incredible on paper.
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Favorite Foods and Music
My favorite food is pasta, while Morgan's might be pizza. As for music, I'm a big fan of Lil Baby, while Morgan's a bit of a music connoisseur - he listens to all kinds of stuff, so it's hard to pin down a favorite.
Alternative Careers
If I wasn't a footballer, I think I'd make a pretty good pundit. And if Morgan wasn't a footballer, he'd probably be a gamer or a YouTuber. Me, I'd probably try my hand at being a DJ.
Personality Red Flags
One of my personality red flags is that I can be a bit too loud for Morgan's liking. He's more of a quiet, moody guy, and my constant need to keep myself amused can be a bit much for him sometimes.
Punctuality and Fashion Sense
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When it comes to punctuality, Morgan's definitely the one more likely to be late for training. As for fashion sense, I'd have to say I'm the better dressed of the two of us. Morgan's style is a bit out there, and he's had some questionable outfits in the past.
Overall, me and Morgan have a great friendship, built on a shared passion for the game and a genuine connection. We may have our differences, but that's what makes our bond so special.
!summarize
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The Unstoppable Rise of Nikola Jokic: A Season for the Ages
Nikola Jokic's historic performances have become a regular occurrence, and it's time the basketball world takes notice. The Denver Nuggets superstar is putting together a season that is simply unparalleled, cementing his status as the best player in the NBA today.
Jokic's latest feat was a triple-double of 37 points, 18 rebounds, and 15 assists, leading the Nuggets to a thrilling 122-120 victory over the reigning Western Conference champions, the Dallas Mavericks. This was Jokic's fourth consecutive triple-double and his sixth of the young NBA season, putting him atop the league in that metric.
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But Jokic's dominance extends far beyond just triple-doubles. He is currently leading the league in rebounds (nearly 14 per game) and assists (nearly 12 per game), while also scoring nearly 30 points per game, good for fourth in the league. And he's doing all of this on obscene shooting splits of 56% from the field, 56% from the three-point line, and 84% from the free-throw line.
It's become increasingly difficult to compare players across eras, especially when considering the significant changes in the game's pace, rules, and defensive intensity over the years. However, one thing is clear: Nikola Jokic is far and away the best player we've seen in the post-2010 era, surpassing the likes of LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry.
The Media's Bias Against Jokic
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Despite Jokic's historic performances, the media has been slow to recognize his dominance. Going into the game against the Mavericks, Jokic was only third on the NBA.com Kia MVP ladder, behind Anthony Davis and Jayson Tatum. This is a clear indication of the media's bias against Jokic, as they seem determined to "halt or promote certain historical narratives."
It's undeniable that Jokic should have won the 2023 NBA MVP award, which was instead given to Joel Embiid. The media's apparent "rigging" and "blackballing" of Jokic's candidacy is a testament to their unwillingness to acknowledge his greatness.
Jokic's Dominance in Advanced Metrics
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Jokic's impact on the game extends far beyond the traditional box score. He currently leads the league by a "laughable margin" in every single key advanced metric, including VORP, BPM, PER, and Win Shares. This marks the fifth consecutive season that Jokic has led the league in these metrics, which were once used to "pleasure themselves" while drooling over LeBron James.
Furthermore, Jokic's on-off metrics are simply staggering. His on-off of +43.7 points per 100 possessions is pacing to shatter Kobe Bryant's record mark for this century of +19.2 in 2006. To put this in context, Anthony Davis is at +3.4, Jayson Tatum is at +6.10, Luka Doncic is at +9.4, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is at +13.3 – all impressive numbers, but dwarfed by Jokic's historic impact.
A Season for the Ages
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If ever there should be a unanimous MVP season, it is this one. Jokic is averaging a 30-point per game triple-double on sky-high shooting splits, all while leading a Nuggets team that is 7-3 despite missing key players like Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon.
Fans and basketball enthusiasts alike should not miss a single second of Nikola Jokic's historic season. History is unfolding before our very eyes, and we are witnessing the rise of a true NBA legend.
!summarize
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The Captaincy Challenge: A Friendly Rivalry on the Pitch
Embracing Friendship and Football
As the two friends, Grace and Mayor, gathered for their pottery challenge, the air was filled with a sense of camaraderie and a shared passion for the game they loved. The task at hand was to paint a pot inspired by the other's personality, all while answering a series of questions from their fans.
Grace, the newly appointed captain of the team, and Mayor, her longtime friend, were determined to showcase their creativity and bond, even as their roles on the pitch had shifted. "I'd hope not," Mayor responded when asked if the dynamic had changed since Grace became captain. "I just have to be around on the pitch now."
Rituals and Strengths
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The two players delved into their pre-match rituals, with Mayor revealing her unique routine of listening to the same album before every game. "It's so weird, really," she admitted, "but it's just a bit risky."
When it came to their football skills, the friends were quick to compliment each other. Grace's passing range and Mayor's dribbling ability were the skills they wished they could swap, showcasing a mutual respect and appreciation for each other's talents.
The Hug Tree and Celebration
As the painting progressed, the conversation turned to the concept of the "hug tree" – a special tree in Mayor's garden that she described as the perfect hugging spot. "It's really hugable," she explained, "so then what makes a perfect hug tree like we can fit your arms around it."
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The friends also discussed a potential celebration for their next match, deciding on a painting-inspired routine where one player would hold up the painted pot while the other painted.
The Finished Masterpieces
As the challenge drew to a close, the friends proudly displayed their creations. Grace's pot featured the iconic captain's armband, complete with the carefully spelled "Captain" text, surrounded by autumn leaves and rain – a nod to the Manchester weather. Mayor's pot, on the other hand, showcased a warm and inviting hug tree, with the arms of the tree embracing the entire design.
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Both players expressed their satisfaction with the final products, acknowledging the challenges of translating their ideas into physical form. "It's really nice," Mayor said, admiring Grace's work. "I really like looky yours."
With the challenge complete, the friends eagerly awaited the fans' verdict, excited to see who would emerge victorious in this friendly rivalry on the pitch.
!summarize
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The Ballon d'Or: A Coveted Prize in the World of Football
The Ballon d'Or, one of the most prestigious individual awards in football, is set to be awarded on Monday. As the trophy sits in the studio, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about the history, significance, and potential future winners of this esteemed accolade.
The Ballon d'Or's Illustrious History
The first recipient of the Ballon d'Or was the legendary Stanley Matthews, who served as an ambassador for the game. Over the years, the award has been dominated by the likes of Lionel Messi, who has won it a remarkable eight times, and Cristiano Ronaldo, who has claimed the trophy five times.
Toughest Opponents Faced
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When asked about the toughest opponents they have faced, the guests share their experiences. One guest, who has played against numerous Ballon d'Or winners, highlights the original Ronaldo (R9) as an "immense player" with precision and a natural finishing ability. Other notable mentions include Zinedine Zidane and Thierry Henry, who the guest believes should have been recognized with the award.
The Next Generation of Superstars
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As the Messi-Ronaldo era comes to an end, the discussion turns to the emerging talents who could dominate the Ballon d'Or in the years to come. Vinicius Junior is seen as a strong contender, with the potential to win the award multiple times. However, the guests also highlight the impressive performances of midfielders like Rodri, who they believe deserve greater recognition.
The English Premier League's Representation
The guests acknowledge the lack of English Premier League players winning the Ballon d'Or in recent years, with the last winner from the league being in 2008. They suggest that the award may not be giving enough attention to the talented players in the English top flight, such as Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, and Phil Foden.
The Rise of Erling Haaland
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The discussion also touches on the meteoric rise of Erling Haaland, the Norwegian striker who has been scoring goals at an astonishing rate. With 44 goals already in the Champions League, the guests believe Haaland is a strong contender for the Ballon d'Or in the near future.
As the conversation comes to an end, the hosts express their awe at having the prestigious Ballon d'Or trophy in the studio, highlighting the significance and prestige of this coveted award in the world of football.
!summarize
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Unai Emery's Meticulous Approach at Arsenal
Unai Emery's tenure as Arsenal's manager has been marked by a relentless work ethic and a meticulous attention to detail. Since taking over the club, Emery has assembled a formidable backroom staff, with the number of assistants reportedly exceeding the number of players in recent meetings.
Emery's commitment to preparation is unparalleled. He personally creates 50-minute video analyses that take him up to 8 hours to complete, and he conducts 70-90 minute meetings with the players three times a week. This level of dedication reflects Emery's belief that "the more you think, the more you work, the more you correct, the better you are."
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One of Emery's key strengths, as highlighted by his assistant Paco Asan, is his ability to quickly move on from the previous game and focus on the next challenge. This mental resilience is crucial in the fast-paced world of Premier League football, where teams must constantly adapt and improve.
The Backstory
Emery's appointment at Arsenal was not without its complexities. According to the transcript, Emery's relationship with the club's owners, particularly Nasif Sis, has been a driving force behind his meticulous approach. Sis reportedly asked Emery about his plans for the club, leading Emery to bring in a large backroom staff, including a CEO and a director of football.
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This extensive support network reflects Emery's desire to leave no stone unturned in his pursuit of success at Arsenal. The sheer number of assistants and the intensity of their work suggest that Emery is determined to leave a lasting impact on the club, both on and off the pitch.
The Road Ahead
As Arsenal continues to navigate the challenges of the Premier League, Emery's unwavering commitment to preparation and attention to detail will be crucial. His ability to quickly move on from past results and focus on the next game will be tested, but if his work ethic and attention to detail are any indication, Emery is well-equipped to lead Arsenal to new heights.
!summarize
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Bayern Munich's Champions League Ambitions
Bayern Munich will be feeling the pressure to win this season's Champions League. They are coming off the back of a trophyless season for the first time since 2012, and to add even more pressure, the final for this year's Champions League will be held in Munich. The last time Bayern hosted a final, they suffered a shock defeat to Chelsea, and they'll be hoping to put that right this year.
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Bayern have a new manager in Vincent Kompany, someone well-known from his time at Manchester City. While some were surprised to see him move from a relegated Burnley side to Bayern, Kompany understands that coaching Bayern is very different from coaching Burnley in the Championship or Premier League. The players he has now are the best he's ever worked with, and the lessons he'll be giving them will be different than those for an underdog side like Burnley.
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Managing bigger egos could be a concern, but Kompany was a captain for his national team, so he understands that everyone is different. While Bayern has players like Thomas Müller, who is the club's record appearance maker, Kompany knows how to ensure that even when a player is not playing, they are still pulling in the same direction as everyone else.
Kompany's time under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City has taught him a different style of football, and being open-minded is one of the biggest assets he can bring to Bayern. This new perspective could be the difference for him as a coach.
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Kompany is aware that this season, especially in the Bundesliga, Bayern will be the favorites for 90% of their games. However, he knows that not every week will it be a low block or a mid-block defense. Sometimes it might be the RB Leipzig style of high energy, and sometimes it could be man-to-man. Kompany is looking to solve as many of these problems as possible and allow his team to thrive in attack, which is their biggest strength.
One of the most important parts of Bayern's build-up play is Jamal Musiala. Even though the two center-backs and a midfielder drop to make it a three-man backline, Musiala has the freedom to roam. He can come back to support the play and progress the ball up the field, or he can stay higher and play more like a false nine, linking up with Harry Kane.
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Another important aspect of Bayern's play is the fact that their wingers will stay really high and at times really wide. While they may not get many touches of the ball, players like Serge Gnabry and Leroy Sané are vital because they pin the opposition's backline, allowing the likes of Kane to drop deeper.
Speaking of Harry Kane, he is without a doubt one of the best finishers in world football, and his link-up play is as good as we've seen. How he benefits this Bayern Munich side, especially in the biggest games, as they approach one of the biggest seasons in their history, will be crucial.
Can Kane and Bayern end their respective wait for a trophy? I believe they can, but will it be this season's Champions League? We'll have to wait and see.
!summarize
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The Early Season Wobble: Assessing the Premier League Title Race
As the Premier League season enters its eighth game week, the question of who will emerge victorious in the title race has already begun to surface. While it may be too early to make definitive predictions, the early signs have been intriguing, with several teams jockeying for position.
Manchester City: The Perennial Favorites
Despite a slight "wobble" in their recent performances, the consensus among the pundits is that Manchester City remain the favorites to lift the trophy. Their experience and consistency over the past few years have made them the team to beat, and with Pep Guardiola at the helm, they are expected to find their rhythm and mount a strong challenge.
Arsenal: The Surprise Package?
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Arsenal's early-season form has been a pleasant surprise for many, with the Gunners currently sitting atop the table. However, their recent struggles after the international break have raised some concerns. The pundits believe that Arsenal will be in the mix for the title, but their ability to maintain their form and handle the pressure of a prolonged challenge will be crucial.
Liverpool: The Dark Horses?
While Manchester City and Arsenal are widely regarded as the frontrunners, the pundits have also highlighted Liverpool as a potential dark horse in the title race. The Reds have the quality and experience to mount a serious challenge, but their ability to navigate through injuries and suspensions could be the key factor in determining their success.
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Discipline: The Achilles' Heel?
One common theme that emerged from the discussion is the importance of discipline for the title contenders, particularly in the case of Arsenal. The Gunners' tendency to pick up unnecessary red cards and suspensions has been a cause for concern, and the pundits believe that if they can address this issue, they will have a better chance of sustaining their title challenge.
As the season progresses, the title race is expected to intensify, with the balance of power shifting between the various contenders. The ability of the teams to maintain their form, manage their squads, and avoid costly mistakes will be crucial in determining the eventual champion.
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A New Era for England: Tuchel Takes the Helm
The appointment of Thomas Tuchel as the new England manager has sent shockwaves through the football world. After the departure of Gareth Southgate, the Football Association (FA) has made a bold move, bringing in a proven winner to lead the national team.
Excitement and Skepticism
The reaction to Tuchel's appointment has been a mix of excitement and skepticism. Some fans are thrilled to have a manager with a track record of success, while others are concerned about the decision to bring in a foreign coach.
"If you're not excited as an England fan by a manager coming in that is a proven winner, then there's something wrong with us as a nation," said former England international Farah. "I think it's a great appointment."
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However, the decision to overlook English managers has raised questions about the development of domestic coaching talent. "It certainly looks like the English coaching pathway has failed," acknowledged Leon. "We have not managed to get an English manager for the national team."
Tuchel's Reputation and Personality
Tuchel's reputation in Germany is a complex one. While he is widely respected for his tactical acumen and success in knockout competitions, he is also seen as an eccentric and difficult personality.
"He's seen in Germany as being a bit of an outsider within with his eccentricities," explained Arie Rintut, a Bundesliga expert. "He's seen as a very good coach, but doesn't get the respect that he has in England."
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Tuchel's relationship with the media and players is also a concern, as he is not known for the same level of player management and media savvy as his predecessor, Gareth Southgate.
A Mandate for Immediate Success
The FA's decision to give Tuchel an 18-month contract is a clear indication that they are looking for immediate success. "It's a statement," said Farah. "He's been brought in to do one job, and that is to win the World Cup."
This short-term approach is a departure from the more gradual development seen under Southgate, and it raises questions about the long-term vision for the national team.
A Crucial Juncture for English Football
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The appointment of Tuchel represents a crucial juncture for English football. The national team has the talent to compete at the highest level, but the question remains whether a foreign manager can unlock that potential and deliver the success that the fans crave.
As the countdown to the World Cup begins, all eyes will be on Tuchel and his ability to navigate the challenges of international football. The journey ahead promises to be a thrilling one, with the potential for both triumph and controversy.
!summarize
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The Rise of Ricardo Calori: From Roma Fan to Arsenal Star
A Passion for Football from a Young Age
Ricardo Calori's love for football began at a young age, around 5 or 6 years old. He was initially a fan of Roma, and even played in their academy growing up. As he developed his skills, Calori looked up to players like Totti, Vieri, and Cristiano Ronaldo as his idols.
The Breakthrough at Basel
Calori's big breakthrough came when he joined Swiss club Basel. He credits this move as "the best choice" he ever made, as it allowed him to grow not just as a player, but as a person. Playing regularly and feeling important for the club was a transformative experience for the young Italian.
Proving Himself at Bologna
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After Basel, Calori moved to Bologna, where he had his "best season" last year. He was determined to prove to the Rossoblu fans that he was not the same player who had struggled for playing time at Roma in the past. Calori's performances at Bologna caught the eye of Arsenal, who soon came calling.
The Dream Move to Arsenal
Calori had been an Arsenal supporter for a while, having visited the city and watched them play. When the Gunners came in for him, he was already convinced. Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, had been in touch with Calori for over a year, trying to convince him to join the club. For Calori, it was a dream come true to wear the iconic red and white kit.
Debut Goal Against Manchester City
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Calori's debut for Arsenal came against the daunting challenge of Manchester City. However, he rose to the occasion, scoring a stunning goal that left everyone in awe. Calori admitted that he didn't even know what he was doing, as his instincts took over and he found the top corner with a "screamer."
Embracing the "Aura"
Calori's manager, Arteta, has described the young Italian as having a special "aura" about him, both on and off the pitch. Calori himself acknowledges that his attitude and behavior on the field have been crucial to his success, helping both himself and the team.
A Bright Future Ahead
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With his impressive debut and the support of the Arsenal faithful, Ricardo Calori has already made a strong impression. As he continues to develop and grow with the club, the future looks bright for this young Italian talent who has found a new home in the heart of North London.
!summarize
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The Most Efficient Striker in Premier League History
Based on the analysis presented, Erling Haaland appears to be the most efficient striker in Premier League history. The key points are:
Goals per Minute
Goals per Game
Chance Conversion
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The panel also highlighted the remarkable career of Jamie Vardy, who has defied expectations to become a Premier League great. Despite an unorthodox approach, including drinking Red Bull before matches, Vardy has a 25% chance conversion rate, second only to Haaland.
The discussion emphasized Haaland's dominance in key efficiency metrics, cementing his status as the most ruthless and effective striker in Premier League history so far. However, the panel also recognized Vardy's unique journey and impressive longevity at the top level, despite his unconventional methods.
!summarize
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Roki Sasaki: The Next Japanese Pitching Sensation Eyeing MLB
The Saga of Roki Sasaki's Potential Move to the Major Leagues
Based on the interview with Jim Allen, a premier Japanese baseball reporter, there are several key factors surrounding Roki Sasaki's potential move from the Chiba Lotte Marines to Major League Baseball:
The Backstory
Sasaki was highly sought after by Japanese teams when he turned pro, with 11 of the 12 teams meeting with him. However, only 4 teams ended up drafting him, hinting at his desire to eventually play in MLB.
There were rumors last year that Sasaki wanted to be posted for the MLB, but the Chiba Lotte Marines denied this. It's believed they were trying to convince him to stay in Japan for a few more seasons.
The Posting Process
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The Marines will likely post Sasaki between December 1-15, giving MLB teams a chance to negotiate with him. Waiting until the end of the window maximizes the number of teams that can make offers.
Sasaki's representatives will likely share medical information with teams upfront, rather than having them bid blindly. This allows him to weigh the best overall fit, not just the highest offer.
Factors in Sasaki's Decision
Money does not appear to be the primary motivator for Sasaki. He is passing up potentially over $100 million to come to MLB at age 23 rather than waiting a couple more seasons.
Sasaki seems focused on becoming the best player he can be, similar to Shohei Ohtani's approach. The team that can best develop him and help him reach his ceiling will likely be the winner.
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Potential Suitors
The Dodgers have been heavily scouting Sasaki and are rumored to be a frontrunner, but Jim Allen cautions against reading too much into those rumors.
Other teams like the A's, who have strong scouting ties in Japan, could also be in the mix. But Sasaki will likely choose the team he feels can best help him maximize his potential.
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In the end, Sasaki's decision will come down to finding the right fit and environment to help him become the best pitcher possible, rather than simply chasing the highest payday. The Dodgers may be a logical landing spot, but Sasaki will have no shortage of suitors vying for his services.
!summarize
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The Uncertain Future of the Tampa Bay Rays
A Franchise in Flux
The Tampa Bay Rays, a baseball franchise that earlier this year unveiled ambitious plans for a new $1.3 billion stadium and a $6 billion development project, now find themselves in a precarious position. The team's slogan of "here to stay" has given way to uncertainty, as the owner, Stu Sternberg, has even floated the possibility of relocation.
Political Delays and Natural Disasters
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The primary reason for this shift is a confluence of events, including political delays and the devastating impact of Hurricane Milton. Pinellas County, where the proposed stadium was to be built, was supposed to take a vote to approve $300 million in bonds to fund the project. However, the vote was delayed due to the hurricane, and by the time it was rescheduled, the political landscape had changed.
Two new county commissioners, who do not favor the project, were elected, shifting the vote from a slim yes to a slim no. Sternberg has expressed his frustration, stating that the county's failure to approve the bonds "upended our ballpark agreement" and sent a "clear message that we had lost the county as a partner."
The Tropicana Field Dilemma
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Adding to the Rays' woes is the uncertainty surrounding Tropicana Field, their current home. While an initial estimate suggested it would cost $56 million and take a full calendar year to fix the stadium's roof, there are concerns that the actual repair costs and timeline could be significantly greater.
With the Rays temporarily playing at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, which is not located in Pinellas County, the county officials are also expressing bitterness that the team did not stay within their jurisdiction.
A Precarious Situation
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The Rays' situation is further complicated by the fact that they were supposed to have $700 million in private financing, a $100 million loan from Major League Baseball, and half of the design documents completed to secure the bonds vote and move forward with the groundbreaking in early 2025. However, these requirements have not been fully met, adding to the uncertainty.
The Looming Threat of Relocation
Sternberg's mention of relocation as a possibility has sent shockwaves through the Rays' fan base. The contrast between the team's "here to stay" slogan and the current uncertainty is stark, and it has left many wondering about the franchise's long-term future in the Tampa Bay area.
Conclusion
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The Tampa Bay Rays are facing a perfect storm of challenges, from political delays and natural disasters to the ongoing issues with Tropicana Field. With the team's temporary home at Steinbrenner Field and the lack of a clear path forward for a new stadium, the franchise's future in the region has become increasingly uncertain. As the Rays navigate these turbulent waters, their fans and the broader baseball community will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that keeps the team firmly rooted in Tampa Bay.
!summarize
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The Chicago White Sox's Historic Collapse: From Division Champions to MLB's Worst Team
Just two years ago, the Chicago White Sox seemed poised for greatness. In 2021, they clinched their first division title since 2008, with a young core of stars and a talented pitching staff. The energy was electric, and the Southside faithful believed they were witnessing the dawn of a new era.
Fast forward to 2024, and the White Sox have spiraled into a historic collapse, on pace to become one of the worst teams in modern MLB history. With over 100 losses before the end of August, they now trail the Cleveland Guardians by an unimaginable 51 games, a staggering turnaround from their 2021 division-winning season.
The Rapid Unraveling
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The White Sox's downfall was swift. They opened the 2024 season by losing 22 of their first 25 games, and any hope of contention was gone by mid-August. Manager Pedro Grifol was fired on August 8th after a dismal 28-89 record, and his interim replacement, Grady Seore, fared no better, leading the team to a 5-26 record.
Statistically, the White Sox are in shambles. They rank last in the American League in ERA (4.83), dead last in the majors in walks, OPS, runs scored, and home runs. Their struggles play out game after game, with embarrassing moments like a routine fly ball turning into a disastrous collision between players.
The Perfect Storm of Institutional Failure
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The White Sox's collapse wasn't the result of a single factor, but rather a perfect storm of institutional failure. Their farm system failed to deliver, with highly anticipated international prospects and top draft picks struggling to make an impact. The front office's failure to strengthen the roster after the 2021 season, coupled with owner Jerry Reinsdorf's reluctance to open his wallet, further exacerbated the team's issues.
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Injuries also played a significant role, with stars like Yoan Moncada and Eloy Jimenez unable to stay healthy and fulfill the hype that led to their lucrative extensions. The organization's loyalty to the duo of Kenny Williams and Rick Hahn, who led the team to the 2005 World Series, kept the organization stuck in the past, unable to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the game.
The Road Ahead
As the 2024 season finally comes to a close, the White Sox face a daunting offseason filled with big decisions. The search for a new manager is already underway, with the team likely to explore outside options focused on developing players and building a winning culture from the ground up.
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The roster itself will also be under heavy scrutiny, as the front office must determine which players are worth keeping around and which can develop into solid everyday contributors. The team's young pitching prospects, such as Jonathan Cannon and Drew Thornton, offer a glimmer of hope, while the offensive side remains a significant question mark.
Rebuilding the White Sox will be a challenging task, but the organization must learn from the mistakes that led to this historic collapse. With the right leadership, a renewed focus on player development, and a willingness to adapt, the White Sox can once again become a contender in the American League. The road ahead may be long, but the potential is there for a triumphant return to the top.
Daniel Jones benched by Giants with Tommy DeVito shockingly expected to start
Daniel Jones is headed to the bench, and he might not ever start another game for the Giants.
Coming off of a bye week late in another lost season, the Giants have decided to bench Jones and turn to fan favorite Tommy DeVito as their starting quarterback, The Post confirmed.
Jones will be the third-stringer, as Drew Lock will remain the backup.
Former general manager Dave Gettleman once said that it would take three years “to find out how crazy I am” for reaching to pick Jones at No. 6 overall in 2019. It took twice as long as Gettleman forecasted and a lot of excuse-making, but the six-year Jones Era likely is over.
#danieljones #nfl #nygiants #sports
It would be shortsighted of the Giants (2-8) to even activate Jones for any of their remaining seven games, including Sunday against the Buccaneers.
DeVito – a fan favorite who went 3-3 as a rookie starter last season – can handle the rest of the season and help determine where within the top 10 picks the Giants are drafting in 2025.
The four-year, $160 million extension that Jones signed after his well-timed career year in 2022 – highlighted by a great performance in the Giants’ only playoff victory since winning Super Bowl XLVI in 2011 – includes a $23 million injury guarantee.
If he is injured and can’t pass a physical by March, then the Giants’ dead salary-cap charge for releasing him goes from a manageable $22 million to an unwieldy $45 million.
But benching the oft-injured Jones is a “football decision” – not strictly a business decision – as general manager Joe Schoen said last week.
Will the NY Giants fire their head coach and GM after this season.
Benching the quarterback is only a small piece of the overall puzzle which is miserable.
I support dismissals of coaches who are not capable of managing their team.
Here in Brazil, it is customary for players to "boycott" the orders of coaches they don't like and then get fired.
That isnt the case in the States. Nobody likes when players quit. That haunts them.
!summarize
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David Sampson: From the Marlins to the Spotlight
A Lifetime of Competing and Overcoming Challenges
David Sampson's path to becoming the former president of the Florida/Miami Marlins was paved with a lifelong drive to compete and succeed. Growing up small in stature, Sampson developed a chip on his shoulder and a determination to excel at every sport he played.
Attending a special summer camp focused on multi-sport competition, the young Sampson honed his skills across a range of disciplines, winning the overall competition despite not placing first in any individual event. This mentality of being well-rounded and refusing to accept defeat carried over into Sampson's business ventures after law school.
Negotiating His Way to the Marlins
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Sampson's first entrepreneurial endeavor involved selling same-day newspapers in Europe, which required him to get creative in securing a deal with the New York Times. Through persistence and an unconventional approach, Sampson was able to secure the necessary access, laying the groundwork for his future success.
Sampson's relationship with Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria led him to become involved in the team's operations, first with the Montreal Expos and then the Marlins themselves. Sampson navigated a complex franchise swap in 2002 that saw the Marlins, Red Sox, and Expos all change hands, ultimately leading to World Series victories for the Marlins in 2003 and the Red Sox.
Building a Winning Culture, Weathering Challenges
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As president of the Marlins, Sampson sought to create a winning culture, retaining iconic figures like Andre Dawson and Tony Perez while also making tough decisions to improve the team. He recounts the story of how the Marlins were able to win the 2003 World Series, overcoming a slow start to the season and capitalizing on key moments of luck and opportunity.
However, Sampson's tenure was not without its challenges. The 2012 season, in particular, proved to be a difficult one, with the team's high-profile offseason acquisitions failing to translate into success on the field. Sampson reflects on the franchise's struggles to build a sustainable winning model, often having to tear down and rebuild the roster.
Navigating Ownership Changes and Controversies
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Sampson's relationship with Derek Jeter, who acquired the Marlins in 2017, was a complex one. Jeter's desire to distance himself from the previous regime led to the dismissal of Sampson and the removal of many of the team's long-standing figures, a decision Sampson views as misguided.
Tragedy also struck the Marlins organization in 2016 with the untimely death of pitcher Jose Fernandez. Sampson speaks movingly about the impact of this loss, both on the team and on owner Jeffrey Loria, who ultimately decided to sell the franchise in the aftermath.
Embracing Life's Challenges and Opportunities
!summarize
@taskmaster4450le, my Premium is over. They finished before the time expired.
So, let's focus on #technology.
Part 1/5:
The Dodgers' Unstoppable Dynasty
The Los Angeles Dodgers have embarked on a mission to become the most dominant and valuable franchise in sports. Through a strategic combination of record-breaking contracts, savvy player development, and global expansion, the Dodgers are poised to create a dynasty that could redefine the landscape of Major League Baseball.
Surpassing the Yankees
The Dodgers have set their sights on surpassing the New York Yankees as the most valuable sports franchise in the world. In the past 20 years, the Dodgers' franchise value has increased by an astonishing 1,089%, but they still trail the Yankees. However, the Dodgers are determined to change that.
Building a Dynasty
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Over the past 12 years, the Dodgers have made the playoffs 12 times, won their division 11 times, had the best record in baseball four times, and made the World Series four times - more than any other team. Yet, they were never able to achieve true dynasty status, until now.
The Offseason Spending Spree
Last offseason, the Dodgers made a bold move, signing the best player in baseball, Shohei Ohtani, to a $700 million contract - the largest in sports history. This was followed by the signing of Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto to a $325 million deal, the biggest pitching contract ever.
Conquering Japan
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By signing Ohtani and Yamamoto, the Dodgers have instantly turned the entire country of Japan, with a population of 125 million, into die-hard Dodgers fans. Ohtani's first game as a Dodger garnered 17 million viewers in Japan, 37 times more than in the United States.
Deferring Contracts to Avoid Penalties
The Dodgers' strategy extends beyond just signing the best players. They have also utilized contract deferrals to avoid the MLB's competitive balance tax, which can become a massive financial burden. By deferring a significant portion of Ohtani's contract, as well as those of other key players, the Dodgers have been able to stay under the tax threshold while still assembling a powerhouse roster.
Unparalleled Player Development
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The Dodgers' success is not just about their spending power; it's also about their unparalleled player development. They have a proven track record of taking players who were struggling or overlooked by other teams and turning them into All-Stars. This ability to identify and cultivate talent is a key component of their dynasty-building strategy.
The Future is Bright
The Dodgers' dynasty is just beginning. With the potential addition of Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki, who could be acquired for a fraction of his market value, the Dodgers could further bolster their roster with another elite talent. Coupled with their financial resources, global reach, and player development expertise, the Dodgers are poised to dominate the sport for years to come.
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As the rest of baseball grapples with the Dodgers' unstoppable rise, the future of the sport hangs in the balance. The Dodgers' formula of checkbook baseball, global expansion, and unparalleled player development may forever change the way the game is played and perceived.
!summarize
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The Rise of Roki Sasaki: A 23-Year-Old Pitching Phenom Heads to MLB
Corbin Burns, Alex Bregman, and Other Top Free Agent Predictions
As the MLB offseason rolls on, the stove is starting to heat up with a flurry of free agent activity. While the biggest name, Juan Soto, seems destined for the Mets, there are several other high-profile free agents making headlines.
Corbin Burns to the Red Sox
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The Boston Red Sox are poised to make a big splash this offseason, and I predict they will land star pitcher Corbin Burns. The Red Sox fan base has grown increasingly restless, watching the team let go of core players like Mookie Betts and Xander Bogaerts in recent years. I believe the Red Sox will make a statement by signing Burns to a long-term deal, solidifying their rotation for years to come.
Alex Bregman Staying with the Astros
There was speculation that Alex Bregman might be leaving the Houston Astros, but I don't see that happening. Bregman just feels like an Astro for life, and the team has made it clear he is a priority. While the Yankees could make a push, I think Bregman ultimately wants to remain in Houston and be a part of their continued success.
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Max Freed to the Cubs
As for Max Freed, I don't believe he will stay with the Atlanta Braves. The Braves have a history of locking up their young stars early, but once a player reaches free agency, they typically let them walk. We saw this with Freddie Freeman and Dansby Swanson. I predict Freed will sign with the Chicago Cubs, who are ready to spend and need an ace to pair with Justin Steele and Shohei Ohtani.
Pete Alonso Staying with the Mets
When it comes to Pete Alonso, I don't see him going anywhere. Alonso is the definition of a New York Met, and I believe Mets owner Steve Cohen will make sure to keep the slugging first baseman in Queens for the long haul. Cohen has shown a willingness to spend, but he does so strategically, and keeping Alonso should be a priority.
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The Arrival of Roki Sasaki
However, the biggest free agent story of the offseason may be the arrival of Roki Sasaki, the 23-year-old pitching phenom from Japan. Sasaki's decision to come to MLB at such a young age is a bit surprising, as he could have waited two more years and signed a much more lucrative deal. But Sasaki seems driven to prove himself as the best player in the world, and he's willing to take the less financially rewarding path to get there.
Sasaki's Dominant NPB Career
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Sasaki burst onto the scene in Japan's high school baseball tournament, Koshien, five years ago, throwing 500 pitches over an eight-day span, including a 12-inning, 21-strikeout complete game. In 2022, he threw a perfect game and then followed it up with eight perfect innings in his next start. His numbers in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) are staggering, leading the league in several key categories compared to stars like Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
Predicting Sasaki's Destination
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My prediction is that Roki Sasaki will sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers have a strong Japanese presence with Shohei Ohtani and Yamamoto, and Sasaki's close relationship with Yu Darvish could be a factor. However, there is an argument that Sasaki may want to forge his own path and avoid the spotlight that comes with the Dodgers. Teams like the Padres, who have a connection with Darvish, could also be in the mix.
Regardless of where he ends up, Roki Sasaki is poised to be an immediate ace in MLB. At just 23 years old, he has the potential to be one of the best pitchers in the game for the next decade. His arrival is sure to be one of the biggest stories of the offseason.
!summarize
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The Toronto Blue Jays' Pursuit of Juan Soto: A Risky Gamble?
The Toronto Blue Jays' pursuit of superstar outfielder Juan Soto has come under intense scrutiny, with prominent voices in the baseball world questioning the team's strategy and long-term vision.
Questioning the Jays' Priorities
Ken Rosenthal, one of the top insiders in the sport, has put the Blue Jays on blast for their approach to the Soto sweepstakes. Rosenthal argues that the Jays would be better served by first securing the long-term future of their own homegrown superstar, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., before making a massive push for Soto.
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Guerrero, 25, and Soto, 26, could both hit the open market after the 2024 season, leaving the Jays in a precarious position. Rosenthal points out that the Jays' farm system is not as highly regarded as those of their division rivals, the Yankees and Rays, raising concerns about the team's ability to remain competitive in the long run.
The Uncertain Future of the Jays' Front Office
Adding to the uncertainty is the unclear future of the Jays' front office leadership. Team president Mark Shapiro and general manager Ross Atkins are signed through 2025 and 2026, respectively, but their job security has been called into question due to the team's inconsistent performance in recent years.
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Rosenthal suggests that the Soto pursuit may be an attempt by Shapiro and Atkins to save their jobs, rather than a long-term plan for the franchise. This raises concerns about the stability and direction of the organization, which could be a deterrent for a player like Soto, who is seeking a team committed to sustained success.
The Importance of Extending Guerrero
The article highlights the importance of the Jays extending Guerrero, who has developed into one of the game's elite players. Rosenthal argues that Soto would be more likely to commit to the Jays if their best player was already locked up long-term, providing a sense of stability and direction for the franchise.
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The failure to extend Guerrero early in his career is seen as a misstep by the Jays' front office, one that could now come back to haunt them as they try to lure Soto to Toronto. The article suggests that Guerrero himself may be pushing the team to add more talent around him, further complicating the Jays' efforts to build a championship-caliber roster.
A Pivotal Crossroads for the Blue Jays
In the end, the Jays find themselves at a pivotal crossroads, with their pursuit of Soto highlighting the shortcomings of their roster construction and front office decision-making. As the team tries to navigate this critical offseason, the pressure is on Shapiro and Atkins to demonstrate a clear, long-term vision for the franchise and its star players.
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Failure to do so could not only jeopardize their chances of landing Soto, but also put the long-term future of the Blue Jays in serious doubt.
!summarize
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A Thrilling Comeback: The Mets' Dramatic Path to the Postseason
Alonzo Ties It Up
In a tight one-nothing game, Pete Alonzo stepped up to the plate in the bottom of the ninth inning and delivered a game-tying home run, his second of the day. This blast not only evened the score, but also marked the 500th RBI of Alonzo's major league career - the fastest player to reach that milestone, doing so in just his 690th game.
Taylor Delivers the Game-Winner
With the game knotted at 1-1, Tyrone Taylor came through in the clutch, driving in the winning run with a base hit down the left field line to give the Mets their first victory of the season. It was a hard-fought win, with the Mets' pitching staff holding the Tigers in check until the offense could finally break through.
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Nemo's Power Display
Trailing the Braves by six runs, the Mets mounted a furious comeback, sparked by Brandon Nemo's three-run homer that tied the game. Nemo would go on to hit two more home runs on the night, driving in five runs total and leading the Mets' charge.
Stewart's Go-Ahead Blast
DJ Stewart put the Mets ahead with a two-run home run in the ninth inning, giving them their first lead of the game. The Mets' power surge continued, with Stewart's blast capping off a back-and-forth affair that saw the teams trade blows.
Alonzo Reaches 200 Home Runs
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In a milestone moment, Pete Alonzo crushed his 200th career home run, becoming just the fourth player in Mets history to reach that impressive feat. Alonzo's prodigious power has made him one of the most feared hitters in the game, and this achievement is a testament to his dominance.
Vientos Walks It Off
With the game tied in the 11th inning, Mark Vientos stepped up and delivered a two-run, walk-off homer to give the Mets the victory. It was a dramatic finish to a back-and-forth battle, and Vientos' heroics capped off an exciting night at Citi Field.
Lindor's Clutch Hits
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Francisco Lindor has been a driving force for the Mets all season, and he continued his MVP-caliber campaign with a pair of clutch hits, including a walk-off two-run single in the 11th inning to give the Mets the win. Lindor's ability to come through in the clutch has been a key factor in the Mets' success.
Alvarez's Walk-Off Blast
In a thrilling finish, rookie sensation Francisco Alvarez stepped up in the bottom of the ninth and launched a towering, game-winning home run to lift the Mets to victory. It was Alvarez's first career walk-off RBI, and a sign of the young slugger's immense potential.
Lindor's Power Surge
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Francisco Lindor has been on a tear, and he continued his hot streak with a pair of home runs, including a three-run shot that put the game out of reach for the Yankees. Lindor's power and production have been instrumental in the Mets' dominance over their crosstown rivals.
Peterson's Gem
In a crucial game with playoff implications, David Peterson turned in a masterful performance, tossing seven scoreless innings and striking out eight batters to lead the Mets to a victory over the Brewers. Peterson's dominant outing was a much-needed boost as the Mets pushed towards the postseason.
Lindor's MVP Moment
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With the Mets trailing in the ninth inning, Francisco Lindor stepped up and delivered a towering, go-ahead two-run home run to put the Mets back on top. Lindor's heroics capped off a thrilling comeback, and his MVP-caliber season continued to shine through in the biggest moments.
The New York Mets' path to the postseason has been filled with dramatic comebacks, milestone achievements, and clutch performances from their star players. From Pete Alonzo's power displays to Francisco Lindor's MVP-worthy season, the Mets have showcased their resilience and talent, cementing their status as one of the most exciting teams in baseball.
!summarize
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The NBA's Troubling Trends: Load Management and Three-Point Shooting
The NBA is facing two significant issues that threaten the integrity of the game - load management and the proliferation of three-point shooting. As Charles Barkley, the Turner Sports Inside the NBA analyst, eloquently expresses, these problems are deeply concerning and need to be addressed.
Load Management: An Unacceptable Trend
Barkley is adamant that the practice of load management, where star players sit out games to manage their workload, is unacceptable. He argues that these players, who are making astronomical salaries of $80-100 million per year, should be playing basketball. Barkley questions the notion of fans paying exorbitant prices to watch these players sit out due to "fatigue."
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"You can't ask people out here who go out here and get their hard-earned money on like real jobs, they say I'm coming to see this great player play, and he's like, 'I'm not gonna play because I was tired,'" Barkley says. "That's not sustainable."
Barkley suggests that the solution could be to incentivize players to play more games, perhaps through a bonus system. He believes that the current situation is an "embarrassment" and that players should be grateful for the opportunity to play basketball at the highest level, especially given the advancements in sports medicine and the financial rewards.
The Three-Point Shooting Epidemic
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Barkley also expresses concern over the NBA's obsession with three-point shooting, which he believes has turned the game into a "three-point shooting contest." While he acknowledges that when the shots are falling, teams will win, he argues that teams need to have a "Plan B" when the three-pointers are not falling.
Barkley suggests that the league needs to find a way to address this issue, as the game has become too reliant on the three-point shot. He believes that the league needs to find a balance between the excitement of the three-point shot and the traditional elements of the game.
The Greatest Time to Play Sports
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Despite these concerns, Barkley recognizes that this is the greatest time to play sports, both financially and from a health and medical standpoint. He acknowledges the advancements in sports medicine, the improved safety protocols, and the lucrative salaries that players are now earning.
However, Barkley believes that players should be grateful for these opportunities and should be willing to play the game they love, rather than sitting out due to load management. He argues that the current situation is an "embarrassment" and that the league needs to find a way to address these issues to preserve the integrity of the game.
!summarize
This video has already been summarized: https://inleo.io/threads/view/taskmaster4450le/re-coyotelation-2ixtzs3kv
!summarize
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The Trump Dance Invades the NFL
A Cultural Phenomenon Sweeps the Sports World
There is a cultural phenomenon taking place in the sports world, and it involves one Donald J. Trump and the now-famous "Trump dance." The NFL, which has already shown its political colors in recent years, now finds itself at the center of this emerging trend.
The ratings drop during the Colin Kaepernick controversy was a warning sign for the league, and the recent Nick Bosa "MAGA Hat" incident could have been even more damaging. But the latest development may prove to be a true test for the NFL's leadership.
The Trump Dance Takes Over
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Over the weekend, several NFL players, including Brock Bowers of the Las Vegas Raiders, Darius Smith of the Detroit Lions, and UFC champion Jon Jones, were seen performing the "Trump dance" after their respective victories. This celebration, which involves a distinctive hand gesture and body movement, has become a symbol of support for the former president.
The reaction to this trend has been mixed, with rumors circulating that the NFL is considering banning the Trump dance. This would be a "monumental mistake," according to some commentators, who argue that it would be a violation of the players' free speech rights and a hypocritical move by the league.
The NFL's Dilemma
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The NFL's handling of this situation will be closely watched. The league has faced criticism for its handling of political issues in the past, such as the Kaepernick controversy and the league's response to player protests during the national anthem.
If the NFL does decide to ban the Trump dance, it could face a backlash from a significant portion of its fan base, who see the celebration as a sign of patriotism and a rejection of the league's perceived "woke" agenda. On the other hand, the league may feel compelled to take action to maintain its image and avoid further political controversy.
The Future of the NFL
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The Trump dance phenomenon is just the latest challenge facing the NFL. As the league continues to navigate the complex landscape of politics and sports, it will need to find a way to balance its business interests with the desires of its diverse fan base.
The future of the NFL may depend on its ability to navigate these treacherous waters and maintain its position as the premier sports league in the United States. Whether the league chooses to embrace or reject the Trump dance, the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the sport and its place in American culture.
!summarize
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The Miami Marlins' Stadium Saga: A Cautionary Tale
The Miami Marlins have found themselves in a peculiar predicament when it comes to their stadium situation and fan attendance over the past decade. This story is a cautionary tale for professional sports franchises and the challenges they face in building and maintaining a loyal fan base.
From Florida Marlins to Miami Marlins
The Marlins' journey began as the Florida Marlins, playing at the old Sun Life Stadium, a multi-purpose facility with numerous empty seats. In the mid-2000s, the team explored a potential move, as is common for teams nearing the end of their stadium deals, seeking taxpayer money to fund a new facility.
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Ultimately, the Marlins rebranded as the Miami Marlins, moving into their new, state-of-the-art Marlins Park (now known as loanDepot Park) in 2012. The stadium featured a retractable roof, making it the only MLB stadium with a true window, and was located in the heart of the Latin community of Little Havana, seemingly positioning the team for success.
A Dismal Attendance Record
However, the move to the new stadium has not translated into increased fan engagement. In fact, the Marlins have struggled to attract crowds, with not a single season in the new stadium ranking in the top 15 for MLB attendance. This is a shocking statistic, as one would have expected the team to thrive in a brand-new, modern facility.
Part 3/7:
The attendance numbers tell a grim story. In their inaugural season at Marlins Park, the Marlins ranked 18th in MLB attendance. The following year, they plummeted to second-to-last, and for the past several seasons, they have consistently ranked 27th or 28th, dead last in the league.
Even before the move to the new stadium, the Marlins struggled to draw fans at their previous home, the multi-purpose Sun Life Stadium, often ranking near the bottom of the league in attendance.
A Flawed Stadium Design
Part 4/7:
The Marlins' stadium woes can be attributed, in part, to the design of Marlins Park. The retractable roof, intended to provide a controlled environment, has remained closed for the vast majority of the time, with the roof being open for only 2% of games in 2021. This is due to the high humidity and frequent thunderstorms that plague Miami during the summer months, the prime baseball season.
The stadium's small capacity, initially around 37,000, has also been a hindrance, with the team forced to close off the entire upper deck just a few years after the stadium's opening due to lack of attendance. The Marlins' offensive struggles have further exacerbated the problem, as the team has consistently ranked near the bottom of the league in runs scored since moving to Marlins Park.
Part 5/7:
A Lack of Sustained Success
The Marlins' on-field performance has also been a significant factor in their attendance woes. Since moving to Marlins Park, the team has made the playoffs only once, during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, and has not won a single playoff game. This lack of sustained success has made it challenging to build a loyal fan base.
Unlike other struggling teams that have embraced a full-scale rebuild, the Marlins have not been able to secure the high draft picks that could have provided them with elite talent. Instead, they have been stuck in a cycle of mediocrity, unable to consistently field a competitive team that would attract fans to the ballpark.
The Future of the Marlins
Part 6/7:
The Marlins' situation is a cautionary tale for professional sports franchises. The team's struggles to attract fans, despite a brand-new, state-of-the-art stadium, highlight the importance of considering the unique climate and cultural factors of a city when designing a sports venue.
As the Marlins enter the 11th season of Marlins Park's existence, the team finds itself in a peculiar predicament. With the stadium still relatively new, the Marlins must grapple with the challenges of a facility that seems ill-suited for their market and a team that has struggled to find sustained success on the field.
Part 7/7:
The future of the Marlins in Miami remains uncertain, and it will be interesting to see if the team can find a way to overcome these obstacles and reconnect with the local community. For now, the Marlins' story serves as a cautionary tale for any professional sports franchise seeking to build a new stadium and establish a loyal fan base.
!summarize
Part 1/4:
The Twins' Potential New Owners
The news has broken that the Pohlad family, who have owned the Minnesota Twins since 1984, have decided to sell the club. This marks the first time since the team's founding in 1901 that a Pohlad or Griffith will not own the franchise.
Former Twins manager Tom Kelly was consulted about the potential sale, and he shared some amusing anecdotes about his interactions with the Pohlad family over the years. Kelly recounted a story about team owner Carl Pohlad buying him a new suit one day, much to Kelly's surprise and bewilderment.
Part 2/4:
"Mr. Pohlad, he would come in the and sit in my office at the Dome periodically... he come in he had an Entourage with them... and then he would come in and I think he just just what I thought I just thought he wanted to get away and sit down and uh exhale sort of," Kelly said. "And uh I you know I'm a sort of a young fell 30 what the hell was I P 36 35 you're pretty young so uh I you know we two different backgrounds here I think so yeah so I never knew really what to say to him so I blur it out one day boy that Carl that's a nice suit and so he says you really like it I said yeah it's sharp sharp looking I said you had it on all day I don't see any wrinkles I said that's pretty pretty nice."
Part 3/4:
Kelly went on to describe how Pohlad then had a suit delivered to him, along with multiple dress shirts, ties, and even shoes. Kelly was overwhelmed by the generosity, saying "I was going oh my goodness gracious so now I'm walking back to the Dome I got four bags I'm carrying I'm going Jesus Christ I was just making conversation."
The potential sale of the Twins has Kelly and his former teammates reminiscing about their time with the organization. Kelly shared another story about former Twins player Gabby Hartnett, who told him to compliment Pohlad's car the next time he came around.
Part 4/4:
While Kelly is sad to see the Pohlad family depart, he is hopeful that the new owners will keep the team in Minnesota. With 15 years remaining on the Twins' lease at Target Field, and Hennepin County negotiating to extend it to 20 years, Kelly believes the team is unlikely to relocate.
However, the potential sale price of $1.5 billion presents a significant challenge for any prospective buyers. Kelly's former teammates Joe Mauer and Patrick Reusse joked that they likely don't have the financial resources to purchase the club.
As the Twins' future ownership hangs in the balance, Kelly's stories provide a glimpse into the team's rich history and the relationships he built with the Pohlad family over the decades. While change is on the horizon, the Twins' legacy in Minnesota appears secure.
!summarize
Part 1/5:
The Uncertain Future of Women's Basketball Without Caitlyn Clark
The departure of Caitlyn Clark from the college basketball scene has left a significant void, and the early returns suggest that women's basketball may struggle to maintain its recent surge in popularity.
The Decline of Angel Reese and the WNBA
Part 2/5:
Angel Reese, the former star at LSU, has also moved on to the professional ranks, but her transition has not been as smooth. Reese was unable to sell out home games at LSU, and that lack of drawing power has carried over to the WNBA. The media's attempts to credit Reese and other players like Paige Bueckers for the rise in women's basketball popularity have been misguided, as Caitlyn Clark has been the driving force behind the elevation of both the college and professional game.
The Ratings Struggle
Part 3/5:
The recent nationally televised games featuring the former Iowa star Caitlyn Clark have been a stark contrast to her time at Iowa. Her first nationally televised game last season drew 583,000 viewers, while the recent matchup between Iowa and Virginia Tech on ESPN2 only managed 209,000 viewers. Similarly, the game between Iowa and Toledo on the Big Ten Network drew a meager 136,000 viewers.
These numbers highlight the heavy reliance of basketball, more than any other sport, on star power. Without Caitlyn Clark, women's college basketball is struggling to attract an audience, and this could foreshadow what might happen to the WNBA in the future.
The Emergence of Unrivaled
Part 4/5:
The launch of the new women's basketball league, Unrivaled, in January could pose a significant challenge to the WNBA. Unrivaled will feature current WNBA players, and with the potential for players to participate in both leagues, the WNBA may face financial competition for the first time.
There are even concerns that the bad blood between TNT and the NBA could lead the network to use Unrivaled as a way to get revenge on the NBA by offering WNBA players significantly more money than the WNBA can. This scenario, while speculative, is a possibility that the WNBA and its commissioner, Cathy Engelbert, should be considering.
The Critical Season Ahead
Part 5/5:
This season in women's college basketball is a critical one, as the ratings and audience engagement will likely serve as a barometer for the future of the WNBA. If the struggles continue without Caitlyn Clark, it could be a warning sign for the professional league, which has enjoyed a monopoly on women's professional basketball for the past 30 years.
The emergence of Unrivaled and the potential for financial competition could further complicate the landscape, and the WNBA must be prepared to adapt and evolve to maintain its relevance in the ever-changing world of women's sports.
!summarize
This video has already been summarized: https://inleo.io/threads/view/taskmaster4450le/re-taskmaster4450le-cqx7w28b
!summarize
Part 1/3:
The SEC Playoff Picture and the Rise of Trump Culture
The SEC Cluster
Clay Travis breaks down the current state of the SEC, which has six teams with two or fewer losses. This creates a complex scenario where it may be difficult for the playoff committee to determine which teams deserve to go to the postseason.
Travis analyzes the resumes of the top SEC teams, looking at their top 25 wins and losses. He concludes that Georgia is clearly the best team in the conference, having played the toughest schedule and only losing to top 25 opponents. He ranks the teams as:
Georgia
Tennessee
Alabama
Ole Miss
Texas
Texas A&M
Kansas Upsets BYU
Part 3/3:
He recounts his own experiences as a Mike Tyson fan growing up, and discusses the technical challenges of streaming major live events like the Tyson vs. Paul fight.
Overall, Travis sees the embrace of Trump by athletes as a major cultural shift, with the former president's influence continuing to grow despite efforts by the media to diminish it.
!summarize
Part 1/4:
The Mets' Dream Offseason
Spending Big on Juan Soto
The Mets' dream offseason starts with signing superstar outfielder Juan Soto to a massive contract. Soto, who is just 26 years old, is one of the best hitters in baseball. His 162-game averages of 35 home runs, 100 RBIs, and a .953 OPS make him a generational talent.
The Mets are willing to break the bank to bring Soto to New York, offering him a 15-year, $75 million per year contract. This would eclipse the previous record for total guaranteed money, set by Shohei Ohtani's $700 million deal. Soto's combination of elite production and youth make him worth every penny.
Locking Up Pete Alonso
Part 2/4:
With Soto in the fold, the Mets turn their attention to re-signing first baseman Pete Alonso. After a slight dip in production the last two seasons, the Mets believe Alonso is poised for a bounce-back year. They sign him to a 6-year, $144 million contract, keeping him in Queens through his prime years.
The Alonso and Soto duo, along with Francisco Lindor, gives the Mets one of the most fearsome lineups in baseball. This trio, combined with the team's young talent like Mark Vientos, should make the Mets a juggernaut offensively.
Acquiring Garrett Crochet
Turning to the pitching staff, the Mets pull off a trade with the Chicago White Sox to land left-handed starter Garrett Crochet. Crochet, 25, has electric stuff, hitting 99 mph with his fastball and flashing a devastating breaking ball.
Part 3/4:
The Mets send top prospect Jett Williams, along with a couple other high-upside minor leaguers, to the White Sox to acquire Crochet. This is a steep price, but the Mets view Crochet as a true ace-caliber pitcher who can anchor their rotation for years to come.
Rounding Out the Roster
With the big three of Soto, Alonso, and Crochet in place, the Mets turn their attention to filling out the rest of the roster. They sign free agent center fielder Cedric Mullins to a multi-year deal, providing strong defense up the middle.
The Mets also add veteran right-hander Shawn Manaea on a 4-year, $80 million contract to bolster the rotation. In the bullpen, they bring back Edwin Diaz and add several other high-upside arms like Danny Coulombe, Caleb Ferguson, and Brooks Raley.
Part 4/4:
When all is said and done, the Mets' dream offseason has them spending around $310 million, putting them over the luxury tax threshold but giving them a roster capable of contending for a World Series. With a core of Soto, Alonso, Lindor, and Crochet, the Mets are poised to be one of the most exciting teams in baseball for years to come.
!summarize
Part 1/3:
The Uncertain Future of the Tampa Bay Rays
The Tampa Bay Rays are facing an uncertain future, as the $1.3 billion stadium deal that was supposed to bring them a new ballpark by 2028 is now "all but dead," according to Tampa Bay Times columnist John Romano.
The delay in the County Commission's vote on the bonds to finance the new stadium, as well as the shifting political dynamics in the region, have cast doubt on whether the Rays will be able to remain in the Tampa Bay area. The aftermath of the recent hurricane, which caused significant damage to their current home, Tropicana Field, has only added to the challenges the team is facing.
Part 2/3:
The Rays have been in this position before, with their future in the region appearing uncertain. However, the current warning signs seem more legitimate than in the past, and the 1.3 billion dollar stadium project appears to be in real trouble.
If the Rays are unable to secure a new stadium in Tampa Bay or St. Petersburg, they could be forced to relocate or be sold and relocated by the current ownership group. This raises questions about the future of expansion in Major League Baseball, as several cities, including Nashville, Charlotte, Portland, and Salt Lake City, have expressed interest in acquiring a team.
Part 3/3:
Commissioner Rob Manfred has maintained that he will not authorize expansion until the Oakland A's and Tampa Bay Rays stadium situations are resolved. With the Rays' future still in limbo, it seems that expansion may be years away.
The Rays' immediate concerns, such as playing in the midsummer heat and dealing with daily late-afternoon rain showers at Steinbrenner Field, their temporary home for 2025, are lesser problems compared to the bigger picture. The question of where the Rays will ultimately end up is the more pressing issue, and the answer remains uncertain.
!summarize
Part 1/7:
The NBA's Viewership Woes: A Troubling Start to the Season
The NBA is facing a concerning start to the 2022-23 season, with ratings and viewership numbers plummeting across the board. The opening night double-header on ESPN averaged just 1.6 million viewers, a 42% decrease from the previous year's debut. TNT's Thursday game between the Spurs and Mavericks saw a 29% drop, while the Friday game averaged only 830,000 viewers, fewer than a college football game on ESPN 2.
Part 2/7:
These numbers are particularly striking when compared to the WNBA's recent success. Caitlin Clark, a rising star in the WNBA, averaged 1.78 million viewers for the entire season, with her debut game drawing over 2 million viewers. This is a stark contrast to the NBA's historical dominance over the WNBA in terms of viewership.
Part 3/7:
"We're looking at the same thing everybody's running the same play at the damn top of the key dribble hand off," said Shaquille O'Neal, who believes the league's reliance on three-point shooting has made the game less exciting for viewers. "I think everybody's looking at the same thing and Steph Curry those guys mess it up like I don't mind Golden State back in the day sh but every team down a three-point shooter so why everybody has the same strategy I think viewership will continue to go down unless we switch things back up."
Part 4/7:
However, Charles Barkley offered a different perspective, arguing that the issue lies with players' unwillingness to play back-to-back games and the rising salaries that make it difficult for fans to afford attending games. "We have guys making 80 90100 million not playing back toback games that's to me I mean listen uh the three-point thing bothers me because of course if they going in you're G to win but you got to have a plan B," Barkley said.
The disconnect between players and fans is a significant concern, as fans are increasingly frustrated by the lack of commitment from highly-paid athletes. "When you hear professional athletes who are making millions of dollars complain about going to work it's a turnoff it's a turnoff to a lot of fans," the host noted.
Part 5/7:
Additionally, the fragmentation of the NBA's media rights, with games spread across various networks and streaming services, has made it more challenging for casual fans to keep up with the league. The upcoming media rights deal will only exacerbate this issue, further complicating the viewing experience for fans.
Part 6/7:
Despite these challenges, the NBA may not be too concerned about the viewership decline, as the league continues to expand globally and secure lucrative media deals. "The NBA will continue to make money and here's why," the host explained. "They have also started to expand more globally we hear Adam Sil talk about the NBA in Mexico and them playing games in Mexico the NBA in France the NBA in London the NBA in Abu Dhabi where they're playing more and more games in all of these remote locations."
Part 7/7:
Ultimately, the NBA faces a complex set of issues that threaten to undermine the league's popularity and engagement with fans. Whether it's the on-court product, the players' commitment, or the fragmented media landscape, the league must address these challenges to regain the excitement and loyalty that has historically defined the NBA experience.
https://inleo.io/threads/view/actifit.social/re-leothreads-uwpsnlfh
So true! Keep on tracking
I haven’t used Actifit in months, always issues to post, app freezes, etcetera
I've been using it for years since February of 2021. It hasn't been perfect but since I workout almost everyday it was a welcomed addition to my day to day.
I have no idea where this referral come from (even because I don't remember doing any kind of advertising with my affiliate link), however...
This user is my first ever InLeo referral ever! 🤯
Thanks (whoever you are)!
Congratz! 👏
great work, keep stacking those referrals!
Such a great feeling, isn't it? 😎
Happy Monday Threads!
Hope you guys have an epic work week!
$LEO to the moooooon! (just not yet, let me buy moar!)
Monday hit me hard.
Snow falling today.
we got a little bit over the weekend. supposed to get dumped on this weekend tho
Clouds look like snow here, but it will never happen. Too warm. Just going to rain.
Happy Monday!
Happy earnings!
Thanks my friend, the same to you.
Happy Monday!!
Who remember this image?
That was the truth lol !DOOK !BBH
You just got DOOKed!
@bitcoinman thinks your content is the shit.
They have 1/400 DOOK left to drop today.
Learn all about this shit in the toilet paper! 💩
@bitcoinman likes your content! so I just sent 1 BBH(1/50)@onealfa! to your account on behalf of @bitcoinman.
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WinAmp man... I was playing my MP3 files on fire and such a great playlist to throw at parties.
It was my birthday yesterday and I decided to give some reflections before posting a new blog about my birthday celebration.
#birthday #outreach #threadstorm
1/🧵
It's been years since I learned about crypto and I would say it's a life changing decision to be included in this community.
#crypto #community
2/🧵
I never thought that after years of ups and downs, I am still here thriving in the same community.
Hive has been a huge contribution with my life and I am thankful to learn this platform.
Read more about the story behind in this post:
https://inleo.io/@anonymous02/reflecting-at-my-21st-birthday-ewv?referral=anonymous02
#life #advice
3/🧵
Happy Belated Birthday!
As I mentioned in a recent article, Solana is currently 35X larger than the SocialFi market cap. This reveals how early we are, especially as SocialFi is an entire sector, while Solana is a single blockchain. Establishing one’s reputation and influence in this new world is smart. As tokenized models experience adoption and growth, additional value is assigned by the market to the underlying token. #cent #sapphirecrypto
DEFUND THE HIVE DHF
Piece by piece, we're solving every single one of crypto mass adoption's barriers and problems.
We're bringing digital cash to the masses.
Join us.
It takes time but we are getting there
Keep pushing 🦁
Next step we're working on is stablecoins.
Imagine a stablecoin with 1-3 second permanent, irreversible settlement and sub-cent fees.
Just imagine...
Thanks for all the great work you do. Still new here but I hope to invite more of my friends to join. It surprises me how such a great platform like this eluded me all these years
Catch up on some reading:
https://inleo.io/@dashpay/why-mass-adoption-of-cryptocurrency-has-failed-so-far-8fe
A #new #graffiti #streetart #photography #post #photographers
Another work day winding down. about 1 hour 15 minutes left
Ooh, you are in the future! I’ve still got hours to go 😉
Have fun!
Haha, !INDEED I am bestie. It is 3:59PM !BBH !DOOK
You just got DOOKed!
@bradleyarrow thinks your content is the shit.
They have 25/60 DOOK left to drop today.
Learn all about this shit in the toilet paper! 💩
(6/100)
@bradleyarrow Totally agrees with your content! so I just sent 1 IDD@generikat! to your account on behalf of @bradleyarrow.
@bradleyarrow likes your content! so I just sent 1 BBH(25/100)@generikat! to your account on behalf of @bradleyarrow.
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Monday is almost over... I wish you all the best in your trip.. 😚😚😚❤️
Thank you my Son :)
!BBH !DOOK
You just got DOOKed!
@bradleyarrow thinks your content is the shit.
They have 24/60 DOOK left to drop today.
Learn all about this shit in the toilet paper! 💩
YOu are welcome Papa 😚❣️😚, please buy some frog legs on your way back.. I need it for dinner with @winanda... 😄😄😄 Lol
@bradleyarrow likes your content! so I just sent 1 BBH(24/100)@calebmarvel01! to your account on behalf of @bradleyarrow.
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Solana DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks) update:
https://blog.syndica.io/deep-dive-solana-depin-october-2024/
The $BTC price continues to rise, nearing its all-time high. A daily pennant formation indicates potential for significant price action.
A breakout above $93,000 could unlock the next major move, potentially targeting $125,000. 💸
#storeofvalue #digitalgold #bitcoin
The price has skyrocketed, now who can stop it?
BTC is pure fire right now! 🔥
I'm listening a presentation by Jaime Dunn made in the University of my city, since #crypto is legal in Bolivia people are catching up! Finally!
That's good to know, and more important that crypto is being taught in schools.
Bitcoin's climb to $93,400 is just the beginning!
Analysts predict $100,000 could be next as demand surges and stablecoin liquidity rises.#Bitcoin #CryptoQuant
$BTC
Sunrise:
#natureonleo #sunrise #photography
Very beautiful that purple color that the sky took on
🧵/1
Will the world be the same without music ?
#threadstorm #outreach #novemberinleo
🧵/2
Music is a great tool for a lot of things which include to be a medium to evoke emotions and also portray expressions while not being bound by any language barriers or borders.
🧵/3
The world would be a lot different than what we know it to be right now if music never existed and possibly also have had a big impact on the present as music had a big impact of mankind from ancient times
End of 🧵/4
Do check out this article to know much more in detail on the same,
https://inleo.io/@sayu907/life-without-music-a-journey-into-an-emotionless-world-32p
Do Drop Your Thoughts below
Thanks for stopping by
In short, AI agents go beyond what a mere chatbot can do: they help people get things done.
$100k for $BTC is in grasp #cent #crypto
Yep it seems so. Maybe even before the year ends.
Would be super awesome
What's up? It's already 10:00 p.m. and all of my daily tasks were done and it's time for relaxation. Right now I think keep threading and writing articles is the only task to complete my day. It was a productive day for me. What about you?
#day #activity #task #relaxation #plan #cent #freecompliments
Hows everyone doing?
living the dream!!
As well as can be expected. 🤣
Okay, finishing training
Today, my wife @alinequeiroz and I celebrate 15 years of marriage.
Although our financial situation isn't so good lately, I'll make her a nice dinner tonight when she gets home.
Let me record here that I love my children's mother very much.
#inleo #marriage #love #15yearstogether
wish you a good anniversary and I understand the economical problems, but a dinner at home can be super good too.
Thank you very much! Yes, it's complicated, but we can't let it go blank on dates like this and a dinner will be something symbolic, but with love.
Congratulations on your 15 good years. You're very lucky
Thank you very much friend!
1/🧵 Today I'm back to the #silvergoldstackers Twelve Days of Christmas #WishListChallenge. Today's wish: a rum runner silver coin!
#threadstorm #outreach
2/🧵 This was made by the Scottsdale Mint for the nation of Antigua & Barbuda, it's a beautiful place to visit. Have a look:
3/🧵 Come take a look at this badass silver and learn a little about the Caribbean nation of Antigua & Barbuda: https://inleo.io/@thebighigg/-silver-stackers-twelve-days-of-christmas-day-3-2zy
#gosh
I've spent the whole day watching logs. It's quite interesting, I tell you
#devlog
Already posted on ladies of give contest about happines, now it's time to rest with my winter pajama and Dexter episodes. ❤️
I hope you rest and recover everything.
3 hours left, but I'll leave my threadcast at the top until the timer expires.
"I will fall upwards." LOL
#inleo #premium
Glad to see #lpud winners around 😎
https://inleo.io/threads/view/logen9f/re-leothreads-6gsoi9cv
Oh town is coming out to hooked me up to the neibours house so I get water. Till they find and fix the problem. I can go for a poo.
it's the little things in life that give us joy!
lol, !INDED
That's an important aspect of life. Go for a poo. LoL
BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, has obtained a commercial license to operate in Abu Dhabi, further solidifying its presence in the Middle East.
#business #investing #finance #cent
@ganjafarmer Cold! Trying to get to the hot springs! #cannabis #crypto #homeless #hope #gosh
lol. Same to you
!BBH !DIY !DOOK
You just got DOOKed!
@pepetoken thinks your content is the shit.
They have 11/400 DOOK left to drop today.
Learn all about this shit in the toilet paper! 💩
@pepetoken likes your content! so I just sent 1 BBH(11/100)@mcoinz79! to your account on behalf of @pepetoken.
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Bitcoin became sexier..lol
#funny #meme #bitcoin #cent
A big change is noticeable.
I just got a notice on Discord that it's my 'friend anniversary' with @taskmaster4450le
I think he should buy me something???
Hah! Maybe give him your Christmas list?
Good idea!!
A diamond ring? A gold bar? 1 BTC?
lifetime 100% $LEO votes for life!!!!!! lol
Una preguntita te gusta la información que comparto por aquí.
A little question, do you like the information I share here? #spanish #bbh #dailydook #ladiesofhive #humanitas #silverbloggers
#Crypto traders, remember: every time you buy low and sell high, someone else bought high and sold low.
For every one with gainz, someone equally and oppositely gets rekt. 💸
And the house (exchanges) wins regardless.
You sure which side of the coin you're on? 😏
crypto traders are too much of the community.
once they become the 2% of the community. then and only then will we grow.
once again this is normal in this type of cycle.
History continues to repeat.
Got a new powerdown happening in a few hours. Gonna go buy a bunch of $LEO with a chunk of it. If you guys can hold off pumping the price until tomorrow...That would be great, thanks!
The race for global domination continues as #MicroStrategy acquires $4.6 Billion $BTC using share sale proceeds.
#bitcoin #storeofvalue #digitalgold