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Tag: Ace
Blake Snell follows Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s lead as the Dodgers $182,000,000 ace enjoys a Shirley Temple at Nobu
Following the World Series triumph in October last year, the Los Angeles Dodgers upgraded the rotation by signing two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell in the offseason.
Blake Snell , who signed a five-year, $182 million contract with the Dodgers in November, is enjoying his time during the offseason. In his latest Instagram story, Snell shared a clip of enjoying a Shirley Temple at Nobu.
Blake Snell is not the only Dodgers player to grace the world-famous sushi restaurant as his new teammates Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto were also at the restaurant in 2023. The Japanese duo were pictured alongside celebrity chef Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa following their blockbuster contracts with the Dodgers.
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Nobu Matsuhisa is one of the brains behind the renowned restaurant chain, and the 75-year-old recently catered to the Golden Globes for a second year running. Celebrity attendance is a common occurrence at Chef Nobu’s restaurants, with the veteran chef also sharing a strong bond with Hollywood icon Robert De Niro, one of the co-founders of Nobu Hospitality.
Chef Nobu is an admirer of Shohei Ohtani, and the celebrity chef congratulated the Dodgers superstar after the NL West team’s World Series win over the Yankees and the Japanese star’s third MVP title. He also gave a special shoutout to Ohtani’s dog Decopin.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts highlights Blake Snell’s hunger
Blake Snell signed for the San Francisco Giants last offseason to end his prolonged free agency. After missing almost the entire Spring Training, Snell had a rough start to the 2024 season and was plagued by injuries in the first half of the year.
However, Snell returned to his Cy Young caliber in the second half of the season. He opted out of his Giants contract after a strong finish and signed for the Dodgers this offseason.
In a recent episode of “Dodgers Territory,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts shared the reason behind Snell’s deal with LA.
“The thing that I really love is not only the talent, but it’s a guy that hasn’t won a championship,” Roberts said. It’s hard to quantify hunger, and this guy wants it really bad. That’s why he chose to sign with the Dodgers.”
With the arrival of the two-time Cy Young winner, the Dodgers have a stacked rotation with Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow and Shohei Ohtani. They could add more firepower to the rotation as the Dodgers are heavily linked with Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki.
Edited by Chaitanya Prakash
Blake Snell, the newest member of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitching staff, is following in the footsteps of some of Japan’s top baseball players. After signing a massive $182,000,000 contract with the Dodgers, Snell was spotted enjoying a Shirley Temple at Nobu, just like Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto have been known to do.The left-handed ace is clearly taking notes from his Japanese counterparts on how to relax and unwind after a big payday. Nobu, known for its exquisite Japanese cuisine and luxurious atmosphere, seems to be the perfect spot for Snell to celebrate his new deal.
Fans are excited to see what Snell can bring to the Dodgers this season, and if his choice of drink is any indication, he’s ready to embrace the culture and success that Ohtani and Yamamoto have found in the MLB. Cheers to a successful season ahead for Blake Snell and the Dodgers!
Tags:
- Blake Snell
- Shohei Ohtani
- Yoshinobu Yamamoto
- Dodgers
- Ace
- Shirley Temple
- Nobu
- MLB
- Baseball
- Pitcher
- Major League Baseball
- Athlete
- Sports
- Professional Athlete
- Japanese Players
#Blake #Snell #Shohei #Ohtani #Yoshinobu #Yamamotos #lead #Dodgers #ace #enjoys #Shirley #Temple #Nobu
Roki Sasaki signs with Dodgers: Japanese ace agrees to deal with World Series champs
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USATSI
Japanese right-hander Roki Sasaki is signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers, he announced Friday on Instagram. Sasaki, 23, was considered to be the best pitcher in the world not already under the employment of an MLB organization. His contract terms were not immediately clear after the announcement.
The Blue Jays and Padres were also considered finalists for his services.
In parts of four seasons with the Chiba Lotte Marines of the Nippon Professional Baseball league, he compiled a 2.35 ERA and a 5.76 strikeout-to-walk ratio. His 26.8% strikeout-minus-walk percentage is far and away the best by active starting pitchers to make the leap from NPB to MLB.
Here’s his Instagram post:
Sasaki’s age and lack of service time resulted in him being classified by MLB as an amateur free agent. As a result, his earning potential was capped to what teams could offer from their international amateur signing pools. In turn, Sasaki was placed No. 7 on our free-agent list — rankings that are formed, in large part, on expected average annual value. Here’s what we wrote at the time:
Sasaki has been on the global radar since throwing a 19-strikeout perfect game as a 20-year-old in 2022. He combines elite velocity with a devastating swing-and-miss splitter/forkball. Sasaki has dealt with his share of injuries, limiting him to 33 combined starts across the last two seasons. His earning potential is completely suppressed because of his amateur free agent classification. Nevertheless, a fully actualized Sasaki has a chance to be an immediate impact starter in the majors.
Sasaki’s designation as an amateur free agent delayed his signing, as he waited until after bonus pools reset on Jan. 15 to make his decision. The Marines, for their part, will receive a posting fee that’s based on his contract’s total value. Here is how that figure is calculated:
- Contract worth less than $25 million: 20% of contract value
- Contract worth $25 million to $50 million: $5 million plus 17.5% of amount over $25 million
- Contract worth more than $50 million: $9.275 million plus 15% of amount over $50 million
Sasaki figures to be part of Dodgers’ Opening Day rotation and teams up with Japanese World Baseball Classic teammates Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto on the roster of the reigning World Series champs.
CBS Sports will have more on this story shortly.
In a monumental move, Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki has agreed to a deal with the reigning World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers. The 21-year-old right-hander has been turning heads with his electric stuff and dominating performances in the Nippon Professional Baseball league, and now he is set to bring his talents to Major League Baseball.Sasaki, known for his blazing fastball and devastating slider, is widely regarded as one of the top pitching prospects in all of baseball. His signing with the Dodgers is a major coup for the team, as they look to defend their title and continue their winning ways.
Dodgers fans are sure to be excited about the addition of Sasaki to their already stacked pitching staff, and the rest of the league will be on notice. With his combination of talent and potential, Sasaki has the chance to make a huge impact in MLB and help lead the Dodgers to even more success in the years to come.
Stay tuned for more updates on Roki Sasaki’s journey to the big leagues and his debut with the Dodgers. It’s sure to be an exciting time for both the team and their fans as they welcome this promising young talent to the squad.
Tags:
Roki Sasaki, Dodgers, Japanese pitcher, World Series champs, MLB, baseball, signing news, free agent, contract agreement, professional baseball player, Los Angeles Dodgers, Japanese ace, pitching prospect, Major League Baseball, player signing, sports news.
#Roki #Sasaki #signs #Dodgers #Japanese #ace #agrees #deal #World #Series #champs2025 NBA Mock Draft: Duke’s Cooper Flagg is top pick ahead of Rutgers’ Dylan Harper, Ace Bailey
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
1st
POSITION RNK
1st
PPG
18.7
RPG
8.2
APG
4.1
3P%
34.9%
Flagg continues to get better with each passing month for Duke and seems to have gained some separation from the field in the last few weeks because of it. Flagg’s versatility and the totality of his overall impact have been off the charts, and if the shooting and self-creation keep trending in the right direction, he could end up being the runaway favorite for the No. 1 pick.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
2nd
POSITION RNK
1st
PPG
19.9
RPG
5.2
APG
4.4
3P%
34.2%
He was playing at an incredibly high level at the end of the calendar year but has recently been hampered by illness. The key with Harper is the shooting. If he’s making 3-pointers, it unlocks so much else because of his size, strength, length and natural instincts with the ball in his hands — and he was 15 for 32 from behind the arc in December.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
4th
POSITION RNK
1st
PPG
19
RPG
7.7
APG
0.8
3P%
34.7%
There’s an increasingly wide range of opinions on Bailey, which is somewhat ironic considering he fits the athletic jumbo wing archetype that is in such high demand and also has some real shot-making to match. The concerns, which are the same as they were in high school, are based on his shot selection, decision-making, lack of rim pressure for such an athlete, and overall inconsistency.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
5th
POSITION RNK
2nd
PPG
16.7
RPG
5.4
APG
5.4
3P%
41.6%
It took him a few weeks to adapt to college basketball, but he’s been playing at a very high level since the end of November. Jakucionis has backcourt size, skill, craft, a knack for operating out of ball screens, and on- and off-ball versatility. His high turnover rate is a bit of a concern, while scouts are still evaluating how well his defensive footspeed will translate.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
6th
POSITION RNK
2nd
PPG
12.5
RPG
5.7
APG
3.1
3P%
31.8%
This is where it gets very uncertain. Edgecombe hasn’t played like the top-five prospect advertised just yet, but his athleticism, competitiveness and defensive upside are undeniable. He’s 9 for 21 from behind the arc in his last five games. If he can keep that pace and eliminate some of those offensive no-show nights (four points vs. Gonzaga, two vs. New Orleans, four vs. Iowa State), he could appeal to someone like Danny Ainge.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
10th
POSITION RNK
3rd
PPG
13.4
RPG
3.4
APG
2.9
3P%
38.3%
Knueppel is skilled, he can score, and there are times when he’s been Duke’s primary facilitator and initiator. He’s also exceeded expectations defensively, albeit surrounded by college basketball’s best defense. The shooting is going to keep ticking up, and if he measures anywhere near his listed height, that’s just one more box he’ll check.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
3rd
POSITION RNK
1st
PPG
11.1
RPG
4.2
APG
5.8
3P%
29.1%
The biggest hiccup in Portland’s rebuilding plans is that Scoot Henderson hasn’t been anywhere near as good as expected through the first season-and-a-half. Picking Demin, who looks like the best passer in the draft but has inconsistent shooting and individual offense, gives them a contingency plan while simultaneously allowing them a look at playing the two lead guards together.
PPG
15.4
RPG
6.8
APG
1.1
3P%
28.1%
This is, admittedly, a little higher for Newell than I’m comfortable with, but he fits an archetype that OKC could value as a southpaw big who can, potentially, stretch the floor with his shooting and as a lob threat and simultaneously bring some defensive versatility.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
12th
POSITION RNK
5th
PPG
13.6
RPG
5.8
APG
2.6
3P%
37.9%
This too may be higher than most have McNeeley at this point, but he’s again proven to be more than just a shooter this year, as he can make decisions and facilitate some within the flow of offense. He’s out now with an ankle injury but needs to prove he’s a solid enough defender that he won’t be targeted at the next level.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
11th
POSITION RNK
4th
PPG
18.9
RPG
2.7
APG
2.2
3P%
41.1%
Every pick San Antonio makes should be about what’s best around Wemby, and Johnson has some shot-making and scoring punch that could help lighten the load for the sophomore sensation. If the Spurs think they can get him to buy into being a more willing ball-mover, cutter and defender, this pick could make a lot of sense.
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Ben Saraf
SG
Israel
• 6’5″
/ 200 lbs
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
15th
POSITION RNK
3rd
PPG
12.8
RPG
3.1
APG
4.2
3P%
26.1%
Saraf may end up being the best international player (as in non-college basketball player) in this draft, which was not the expectation just a few months ago. The southpaw has the requisite feel to play in Golden State’s system but needs to figure out the shooting.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
9th
POSITION RNK
3rd
PPG
15.5
RPG
3.6
APG
5.8
3P%
36.8%
If the Spurs look to solidify the point guard spot, Fland gives them the shooting necessary to space the floor around Wemby. He’s added an extra dimension of burst to his game this year and proven he’s capable of creating for others. Building up his body will be a requisite to withstanding the physicality of the next level.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
26th
POSITION RNK
2nd
PPG
9
RPG
6.4
APG
0.3
3P%
20%
The Rockets have arguably more young pieces than any franchise in the league, with essentially all five positions covered. While Maluach is admittedly still a project, particularly on the offensive end, he’d provide a complement to Alperen Sengun as a backup with size and length who can rim run, block shots, and move reasonably well laterally.
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Nolan Traore
PG
France
• 6’4″
/ 175 lbs
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
7th
POSITION RNK
2nd
PPG
10.9
RPG
4.5
APG
1.2
3P%
21.2%
Traore came into this draft cycle billed as a top-five pick but has not had a good season thus far in France. He’s still a high-upside swing with solid size, very good speed, and real playmaking instincts for a lead guard. Defense, shooting and ball security are the swing skills that could impact his stock in the coming months.
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Noa Essengue
PF
France
• 6’10”
/ 200 lbs
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
31st
POSITION RNK
5th
PPG
10.0
RPG
4.5
APG
1.2
3P%
21.2%
Essengue is one of the youngest players in the draft. He’s viewed as a highly versatile defender who needs to define his translatable offense, but still has a way of impacting the game without needing significant offensive volume. If Julius Randle isn’t in Minnesota past this year, the Wolves could use another frontcourt piece.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
18th
POSITION RNK
1st
PPG
16.2
RPG
7.8
APG
1.9
3P%
10%
All Queen has ever done is produce. It started when he was a freshman at Saint Frances Academy in Baltimore, continued with Team Thrill in the Under Armour Association, and now at Montverde Academy. There will be questions about how his game will translate, especially defensively, but his hands, touch, rebounding and passing are all assets.
PPG
16.6
RPG
3.6
APG
4.3
3P%
27.9%
Fears is the most pleasant surprise in this freshman class so far. The question is whether he can sustain it. He’s a big, playmaking lead guard who needs a ton of volume and isn’t always especially efficient but has playmaking tools. It would be a big swing for an OKC team that is very comfortable betting on its player development.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
17th
POSITION RNK
5th
PPG
19.6
RPG
5
APG
6.7
3P%
31.9%
Jones may be the best guard in college basketball this year and is uniquely qualified to come into a Brooklyn program that could have significant minutes available in the backcourt and crack the rotation as a rookie.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
19th
POSITION RNK
2nd
PPG
15.4
RPG
3.5
APG
0.8
3P%
42.7%
Jackson has averaged over 23 points per game through his last six games. He’s always been hyper-competitive and made great strides with his shooting in high school. Now it’s just the feel and shot selection that scouts want to see.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
14th
POSITION RNK
6th
PPG
16.1
RPG
5.1
APG
2.9
3P%
43%
Karaban is a smart and skilled forward who can provide some much-needed floor spacing for an Atlanta franchise that is gradually picking up some quality young assets.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
23rd
POSITION RNK
4th
PPG
15.9
RPG
9.1
APG
2.1
3P%
26.7%
There will be questions about how his game fits with his lack of floor spacing, but Murray-Boyles is a long, strong and rugged forward, or maybe even small-ball five, who could thrive in a more supporting role.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
N/A
POSITION RNK
N/A
PPG
16.1
RPG
9.1
APG
1.4
3P%
44.2%
As the Mavs continue to build around Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, Fleming gives them a long athlete who is averaging 1.5 blocks per game this season but is still accurate from 3-point range.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
34th
POSITION RNK
6th
PPG
7.4
RPG
3.5
APG
0.9
3P%
39.5%
If Orlando doesn’t think Jett Howard is the long-term 3-and-D wing they hoped for, Powell could offer them a prospect from that archetype, albeit one who won’t be ready to make an impact just yet.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
16th
POSITION RNK
4th
PPG
11.4
RPG
3.7
APG
3.8
3P%
26.8%
Philon has exceeded all expectations this year with his two-way instincts and competitiveness to match his lead guard size. He could be an understudy for Marcus Smart in Memphis but needs to shoot it consistently.
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Hugo Gonzalez
SF
Spain
• 6’6″
/ 205 lbs
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
25th
POSITION RNK
8th
PPG
2.9
RPG
1.7
APG
0.6
3P%
21.2%
Gonzalez is a high-IQ wing with an equally high motor, yet he’s very difficult to evaluate this year because he doesn’t get a ton of minutes. Brooklyn has enough picks to make the risk worth the reward.
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Dink Pate
SG
G League Ignite
• 6’8″
/ 210 lbs
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
20th
POSITION RNK
4th
PPG
10.2
RPG
5.5
APG
2.0
3P%
25%
Another home-run swing for Brooklyn with this potential jumbo guard in the making. It will be a bet on player development, though, as he’ll have to develop his shooting and total floor game.
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
38th
POSITION RNK
8th
PPG
17.9
RPG
10.7
APG
3.3
3P%
28.6%
Al Horford can’t play forever. Broome is the best big man in college basketball and may have just enough shooting potential to make it work in Boston.
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Noah Penda
SF
France
• 6’8″
/ 225 lbs
Projected Team
PROSPECT RNK
N/A
POSITION RNK
N/A
PPG
9.6
RPG
5.4
APG
2.7
3P%
35.4%
An ascending Frenchman, Penda is strong, skilled and very smart. It’s very possible he continues to trend up in the coming months and isn’t available by this point.
With the 2025 NBA Draft quickly approaching, all eyes are on Duke’s standout guard Cooper Flagg as the potential top pick. Flagg has been turning heads with his impressive scoring ability, playmaking skills, and leadership on and off the court.However, Rutgers’ forward Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey are not far behind. Harper has been dominating the boards and showcasing his versatility on both ends of the floor, while Bailey’s explosive athleticism and defensive prowess have also caught the attention of NBA scouts.
It will be a highly anticipated draft night as teams look to secure the next generation of talent, and all eyes will be on these three players as they vie for the top spot. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as we get closer to the 2025 NBA Draft.
Tags:
- 2025 NBA Mock Draft
- Duke’s Cooper Flagg
- Rutgers’ Dylan Harper
- Ace Bailey
- Top pick in 2025 NBA Draft
- College basketball prospects
- NBA Draft projections
- Duke basketball star
- Rutgers basketball standout
- Future NBA stars
#NBA #Mock #Draft #Dukes #Cooper #Flagg #top #pick #ahead #Rutgers #Dylan #Harper #Ace #Bailey
Intel Core i9-13900K Desktop Processor + MSI MEG Z690 ACE Gaming Motherboard
Price:$1,179.98– $1,026.70
(as of Jan 04,2025 22:23:24 UTC – Details)
Intel Core i9-13900K Desktop Processor + MSI MEG Z690 ACE Gaming Motherboard
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Supports DDR5 Memory
Genuine 24K Gold: Premium aesthetics with its dark black finish and genuine 24K-gold foil heatsink perfectly show off the concept of beauty
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Get ready for the ultimate gaming experience with the Intel Core i9-13900K Desktop Processor and MSI MEG Z690 ACE Gaming Motherboard combo!The Intel Core i9-13900K is a powerhouse of a processor, featuring 16 cores and 24 threads to handle even the most demanding games and applications with ease. With a base clock speed of 3.5GHz and a boost clock of up to 5.2GHz, you’ll experience lightning-fast performance and smooth gameplay.
Pair the Intel Core i9-13900K with the MSI MEG Z690 ACE Gaming Motherboard for a truly exceptional gaming setup. This motherboard is packed with features designed for gamers, including support for PCIe 5.0, DDR5 memory, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. Plus, with Mystic Light RGB lighting, you can customize the look of your rig to suit your style.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the Intel Core i9-13900K Desktop Processor and MSI MEG Z690 ACE Gaming Motherboard combo is sure to take your gaming experience to the next level. Upgrade your system today and experience the power of Intel and MSI!
#Intel #Core #i913900K #Desktop #Processor #MSI #MEG #Z690 #ACE #Gaming #Motherboard,intel i9-13900k for high-performance tasks
Phil Parkinson could shock Wrexham fans at 2pm today by dropping 85-touch ace from his XI vs Peterborough
Wrexham go head-to-head with Peterborough United in a League One meeting in Wales later today.
The Red Dragons tasted defeat in their opening encounter of 2025, losing 2-1 to Barnsley at Oakwell.
Wrexham will be much more confident of picking up a win in their clash with Peterborough United this weekend, however.
Phil Parkinson has managed to guide the Welsh outfit to a 19-game unbeaten run at the Racecourse Ground, last losing all the way back in March 2024.
Their upcoming opponents, on paper at least, present a much easier test than the play-off chasing Barnsley did.
The Posh are down in 18th place and have been very inconsistent all the way through 2024/25 so far.
It won’t be a complete walk in the park, however, especially if one Wrexham problem rears its head again on Saturday.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images Phil Parkinson must consider dropping Max Cleworth vs Peterborough United
Wrexham still have one of the best defensive records in League One going into the latest round of games.
However, they have now failed to keep a clean sheet in their last five fixtures in the division – a problem they really can’t afford to have given their striker’s lack of goals.
After Barnsley, Wrexham’s biggest weakness was highlighted, with it revealed that four goals out of the last five they have conceded have now come down the right of their backline.
It’s a tricky situation for Parkinson to manage given how effective that flank has been for Wrexham going forward this season.
However, with clean sheets now alluding them and the same problem emerging in each game, he should consider dropping Max Cleworth – who starts on the right of the back three – against Peterborough.
Cleworth had 85 touches, as per Sofascore, and scored in the defeat to Barnsley – his sixth goal of 2024/25 – but it’s clear something needs to change if the Red Dragons are to stop leaking goals down their right.
With Lewis Brunt injured, summer signing Dan Scarr is the most likely option to replace the 22-year-old when the teamsheet is revealed at 2pm today.
Photo by James Baylis – AMA/Getty Images Phil Parkinson could make another big Wrexham call vs Peterborough
It’s not just at the back where Parkinson may shock fans by making a big change on January 4th, however.
Wrexham’s strikers have been well off their best this term, with concerning Paul Mullin data summing up his decline.
Meanwhile, his long-time attacking partner Ollie Palmer was poor against Barnsley and now has just three goals in League One this season.
In turn, super-sub Steven Fletcher could come into the starting lineup for the clash even though he probably can’t complete the full 90 minutes.
Related Topics
Wrexham fans brace yourselves! Phil Parkinson could be about to make a bold move by dropping their 85-touch ace from the starting XI in their upcoming match against Peterborough.Fans have been impressed by the player’s skill on the ball, but it seems Parkinson has other ideas for the lineup. Will this decision pay off, or will it leave fans scratching their heads?
Stay tuned for the announcement at 2pm today to see if the shock decision comes to fruition. The tension is high, and the stakes are even higher. Will Parkinson’s gamble pay off, or will it backfire? Only time will tell.
Tags:
- Phil Parkinson
- Wrexham FC
- Wrexham fans
- 2pm
- Peterborough
- Starting XI
- Lineup news
- Football
- Soccer
- Player drop
- Team news
- Surprise move
- Matchday
- Phil Parkinson tactics
- Wrexham match
- Peterborough clash
#Phil #Parkinson #shock #Wrexham #fans #2pm #today #dropping #85touch #ace #Peterborough
Orioles blockbuster trade idea lands $14M ace for Ryan Mountcastle, Dean Kremer
The Baltimore Orioles already needed a ton of starting pitching help, and then they lost their ace. Where do they go from here?
Trading for Corbin Burnes last winter saved the Orioles rotation from a total collapse in 2024, but it may not have netted them anything in the long run. Burnes is now gone to the Arizona Diamondbacks, and the Baltimore rotation is in a state of semi-ruin.
The only saving grace the Orioles have, if they’re willing to take advantage of it, is their immense swath of young talent. They could make another trade, mirroring the Burnes deal, and nab a replacement to headline their 2025 rotation.
Of all the names on the trade market, Dylan Cease seems most poised to take over a number-one starting role. He finished fourth in National League Cy Young voting in 2024, and his San Diego Padres may be in enough of a bind financially to move him before he hits free agency.
In a recent YouTube video, content creator Jim Riley proposed a trade that would send Cease to Baltimore in exchange for first baseman Ryan Mountcastle and starting pitcher Dean Kremer.
“The Baltimore Orioles missed out on Corbin Burnes, the fan base is upset, let’s run it back,” Riley said. “In the end, you get an Orioles rotation that is headlined by Dylan Cease.”
Cease, 28, had a 3.47 ERA in 189 1/3 innings this past season, ranking third in all of baseball with 224 strikeouts. He threw his first career no-hitter as well, and his 3.10 FIP suggests that he likely deserved even better stats than he wound up with.
Riley’s return makes some sense for the Padres if San Diego is prioritizing big-league talent. Kremer has three years of control and could slot into the Padres’ rotation, but Mountcastle is a more complicated fit, as a first baseman/designated hitter only.
Frankly, it will probably take more on Baltimore’s part if they want Cease in their rotation. But they’ve got the young talent to spare, so it quickly becomes a test of how committed general manager Mike Elias is to winning now.
More MLB: Mets predicted to broker blockbuster trade with Mariners for 3-time All-Star
The Baltimore Orioles have been in rebuilding mode for the past few seasons, but they may have just made their biggest move yet with a blockbuster trade idea that would land them a $14M ace in exchange for top prospects Ryan Mountcastle and Dean Kremer.The proposed trade would see the Orioles part ways with two promising young players in Mountcastle and Kremer, who have shown flashes of potential in their brief MLB careers. In return, they would acquire a proven ace with a hefty price tag of $14M, but one who could provide a much-needed boost to their starting rotation.
While it’s always tough to part ways with promising young talent, the Orioles are in desperate need of pitching help and acquiring a top-tier starter could be just what they need to take the next step in their rebuilding process. Stay tuned to see if this blockbuster trade idea comes to fruition and how it could impact the Orioles’ future.
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#Orioles #blockbuster #trade #idea #lands #14M #ace #Ryan #Mountcastle #Dean #Kremer
Gio Mpetshi Perricard, Reilly Opelka ace way into Brisbane QFs | ATP Tour
Match Report
Big servers Mpetshi Perricard, Opelka ace way into Brisbane QFs
#NextGenATP Czech Jakub Mensik advances
January 02, 2025
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Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard hit 20 aces in his second-round win against Frances Tiafoe on Thursday in Brisbane.
By Sam JacotGiovanni Mpetshi Perricard wasted little time in showing opponent Frances Tiafoe and the Brisbane International presented by Evie crowd what he was about on Thursday when he fired four aces in his opening service game against the American.
The 21-year-old’s red-hot start set the tone for the match, with Tiafoe unable to answer the Frenchman’s power. Under the Brisbane heat, Mpetshi Perricard hammered 20 aces and saved both break points he faced to earn a 6-4, 7-6(4) second-round victory.
”I was very warm from the first game,” Mpetshi Perricard said when asked about his fast start. “I didn’t see the speed of the serves but over 230kmh is very fast, so I am pleased.”
And that’s how it’s done
Mpetshi Perricard turns up the dials in Brisbane to deliver a straight sets win against Tiafoe @brisbanetennis | #BrisbaneTennis pic.twitter.com/bZhUw1GTd8
— ATP Tour (@atptour) January 2, 2025
The World No. 31 hit 36 aces in his win against Nick Kyrgios in his opening match, also serving a game of aces, and backed that up with a confident performance against Tiafoe to improve to 6-1 against Top 20 players.
“It was a good match,” said Mpetshi Perricard, who led the Tour with an average of 19 aces per match last season. “It is never easy to play against Frances. I did well in the first set and then battled in the second. I tried to put some pressure on his second serve and it worked, so I am pleased with my performance today.”
Mpetshi Perricard is aiming to clinch his third tour-level title this week. A year ago, the Frenchman was outside the Top 200 in the PIF ATP Rankings but starts this season at No. 31, having won ATP Tour trophies in Lyon and Basel in 2024.
In a day of success for big servers, 6’11” Reilly Opelka also advanced. The American struck 25 aces according to Infosys ATP Stats en route to defeating Matteo Arnaldi 7-6(9), 7-6(4). Opelka saved one set point in the first set and converted on his third match point in the second-set tie-break to reach his first ATP Tour quarter-final since 2022 (Delray Beach).
At No. 293 in the PIF ATP Rankings, Opelka is the second-lowest ranked quarter-finalist in Brisbane history. Rafael Nadal was the lowest when he advanced to the last eight in 2024. Opelka will meet top seed Novak Djokovic or Frenchman Gael Monfils in the quarter-finals.
Earlier, #NextGenATP Czech Jakub Mensik became the fourth-youngest quarter-finalist in tournament history when he moved past Serbian lucky loser Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-2 in just 66 minutes.
The 19-year-old, who competed at last month’s Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF, leads Lajovic 2-0 in the pair’s Lexus ATP Head2Head series. Into his sixth tour-level quarter-final, Mensik will next face Mpetshi Perricard.
Gio Mpetshi Perricard impressively advanced to the quarterfinals of the Brisbane International by defeating Reilly Opelka with a stunning display of aces. The young tennis player showcased his talent and determination on the court, proving that he is a force to be reckoned with in the ATP Tour. Stay tuned for more updates on Gio Mpetshi Perricard’s journey in Brisbane. #ATPTour #GioMpetshiPerricard #BrisbaneInternational #TennisAce
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Bucks Pull Off a Slam Dunk in Acquiring Winning Ace Valanciunas from Wallet-conscious Wizards
Bucks Eye Valanciunas: A Strategic Move
As the trade deadline looms closer, the Milwaukee Bucks are strategically positioning themselves to enhance their roster depth. In a league where every move counts, the Bucks have set their sights on Jonas Valanciunas from the Washington Wizards. This calculated move aims to fortify their lineup, providing crucial support for veteran center Brook Lopez. Valanciunas, a seasoned player with a proven track record, could potentially be the missing piece in the Bucks’ quest for playoff success.
Strategic Trade Proposal Unveiled
The proposed trade scenario involves the Bucks acquiring Valanciunas and Anthony Gill from the Wizards in exchange for Pat Connaughton, MarJon Beauchamp, and a future second-round pick. While the Wizards stand to gain draft assets and a promising young player in Beauchamp, the Bucks secure a reliable backup center in Valanciunas. This trade not only addresses the immediate need for center depth but also sets the stage for a more robust and versatile lineup.
Analyzing the Potential Impact
Valanciunas brings a wealth of experience and a well-rounded skill set to the Bucks. Despite his limitations in floor spacing, his defensive prowess and rebounding efficiency could significantly bolster the team’s performance. With Coach Doc Rivers at the helm, the Bucks are poised to capitalize on Valanciunas’ strengths and maximize his impact on both ends of the court. The addition of Gill further adds to the team’s flexibility, offering additional options for strategic rotations during crucial playoff matchups.
Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
While integrating new players into an established system can present challenges, the Bucks seem well-equipped to leverage Valanciunas’ strengths within their offensive schemes. His ability to impact winning plays aligns seamlessly with the Bucks’ championship aspirations. As they fine-tune their lineup for the postseason grind, the Bucks are making calculated moves that balance immediate needs with long-term objectives. Valanciunas’ arrival could mark a turning point in their season, elevating their competitiveness in a fiercely contested Eastern Conference.
Future Prospects and Playoff Aspirations
Looking ahead, the Bucks’ acquisition of Valanciunas signals a strategic shift towards fortifying their frontcourt and enhancing their overall depth. With the playoffs on the horizon, every roster move takes on added significance. As they strive to position themselves as formidable contenders, the Bucks’ calculated trade maneuver could prove instrumental in shaping their postseason journey. The synergy between Valanciunas, Lopez, and the rest of the Bucks’ roster sets the stage for an intriguing narrative as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their pursuit of basketball glory.
The Milwaukee Bucks have made a major move in acquiring center Jonas Valanciunas from the Washington Wizards, solidifying their frontcourt and boosting their chances at a deep playoff run. Valanciunas, known for his scoring and rebounding prowess, will provide a much-needed boost to the Bucks’ roster as they look to make a push for the championship.What makes this acquisition even more impressive is the fact that the Bucks were able to pull off the trade without breaking the bank. With many teams struggling to stay under the luxury tax threshold, the Bucks managed to add a high-caliber player like Valanciunas while still being mindful of their financial situation.
Fans of the Bucks are sure to be excited about the addition of Valanciunas and what it means for their team’s chances moving forward. With a winning ace like Valanciunas in their lineup, the Bucks are poised to make a serious impact in the playoffs and potentially bring home a championship.
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Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard’s ace assault dents Nick Kyrgios’ comeback in Brisbane | ATP Tour
Brisbane
Mpetshi Perricard’s ace assault dents Kyrgios’ comeback in Brisbane
Aussie was playing first match since wrist surgery
December 31, 2024
2024 Getty Images
Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard plays his first match of the 2025 ATP Tour season.
By ATP StaffFrench powerhouse Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard snuffed out Nick Kyrgios‘ hopes of a winning return to the ATP Tour Tuesday as he defeated the Australian 7-6(2), 6-7(4), 7-6(3) at the Brisbane International presented by Evie.
Going big on both first and second serves, the 21-year-old Frenchman fired 36 aces and put Kyrgios’ wrist through a stern test in the Australian’s first tour-level match since September 2023 wrist surgery. Gio served a game of aces to go ahead 5-4 in the third set and claimed two mini-breaks in the decisive tie-break to claim victory.
Mpetshi Perricard was also lethal from the baseline, crushing eight forehand winners in the first set alone. He also unveiled an upgraded backhand that proved resilient under pressure and produced a spectacular down-the-line winner in the fifth game of the opening set that left Kyrgios floundering.
“Playing against Nick was a good match for me, he did some good things during the match,” said Mpetshi Perricard. “He was very confident, a good serve. I tried my best and it worked.
“It was very exciting to play this one, and I’m very happy to get the win. I knew it was going to be a serve match. I hope I will have a nice recovery and be back in two days.”
Mpetshi Perricard, who last year climbed from No. 205 to No. 31 in the PIF ATP Rankings, next faces American fourth seed Frances Tiafoe.
Playing his first match since September 2023 wrist surgery, 29-year-old Kyrgios moved freely and showed few signs of rust. But he did play with heavy taping on his wrist and called the physio to court after dropping the first set.
He also played a composed match, exchanging little banter with the chair umpire and showing few signs of frustration.
You May Also Like: How Mpetshi Perricard has become one of the game’s biggest serversAlthough he may not have hit his spots on serve early in the match, Kyrgios finished with 15 aces. He put 76 per cent of first serves into play, winning 83 per cent of those points. He also won 69 per cent of second serves and saved both break points he faced. Mpetshi Perricard also saved both break points faced.
Perricard finished with 59 winners, including 15 off his forehand wing, and 34 unforced errors, including seven double faults.
In a thrilling match at the Brisbane International, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard delivered a stunning performance to defeat Nick Kyrgios and put a dent in the Australian’s comeback hopes.Perricard, a rising star on the ATP Tour, showcased his powerful serve and aggressive baseline game to secure a hard-fought victory over Kyrgios, who was making his return to competitive tennis after a lengthy absence.
Despite facing a hostile crowd cheering for the local favorite, Perricard remained composed and focused throughout the match, showcasing his mental toughness and determination to come out on top.
The victory marks a significant milestone for Perricard, who is looking to make a name for himself on the ATP Tour and establish himself as a force to be reckoned with in men’s tennis.
As for Kyrgios, the loss serves as a setback in his comeback journey, but the talented Australian is sure to bounce back stronger and continue to delight fans with his electrifying play on the court.
Overall, the match between Perricard and Kyrgios was a thrilling display of top-class tennis, with Perricard emerging as the victor and making a statement to the tennis world. Stay tuned to see what the future holds for these two talented players on the ATP Tour.
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Phil Parkinson issues Paul Mullin verdict amid big update on Wrexham ace before Barnsley
Wrexham will be looking to kick off 2025 in style when they face off with Barnsley on January 1st.
2024 was a year to celebrate for Wrexham. They secured promotion to League One and are firmly in contention to earn a spot in the Championship next season.
The Red Dragons most recently picked up a 2-1 win over Wigan Athletic, seeing them climb above Wycombe Wanderers and one point adrift of Birmingham City.
However, both sides still have at least one game in hand on Phil Parkinson and his players, who need a win on New Year’s Day to keep their push for automatic promotion going strong.
Wrexham take on Barnsley in their first clash of 2025, travelling to Oakwell for a 3pm kick-off on Wednesday.
Ahead of that fixture, Parkinson has been discussing Paul Mullin and provided an exciting update on another Wrexham ace.
Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images Phil Parkinson on Paul Mullin and Jack Marriot ahead of Barnsley vs Wrexham
Mullin ended his Wrexham goal drought versus Blackpool on Boxing Day, finding the back of the net for the first time in 11 league matches.
However, the 30-year-old once again blanked when in from the off against Wigan on Saturday afternoon, leaving substitute Steven Fletcher to rescue the three points from the bench.
Despite this, Parkinson, as per Leader Live, gave a positive verdict on Mullin while also providing a big update on Jack Marriott and his battle to return from injury.
He said: “We’ve got Arthur Okonkwo ready to start training harder in the next week or so, Jack Marriott is back on the grass, Paul Mullin is working hard for us and got a great goal the other day and looked a threat against Wigan.
“We’re pleased but we’re going to keep our feet firmly on the ground and make sure the preparation is as professional as it can be each and every game.”
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images Jack Marriott could replace Paul Mullin at Wrexham
Mullin may have scored against Blackpool and earned praise for his Wigan display but he’s still not netting enough goals to warrant a regular starting berth.
The Liverpool-born forward has just two league goals so far this season and could lose his place in the eleven once more when Marriott makes his return in the near future.
Despite being out injured since October, Marriott is Wrexham’s top-scoring number nine in League One this season with five goals.
The Red Dragons are in a very tight promotion battle right now and unless Mullin starts delivering in the coming weeks, it makes sense for him to be dropped for Marriott.
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“Phil Parkinson Delivers Paul Mullin Verdict Amid Big Update on Wrexham Ace Before Barnsley Clash”In a recent press conference, Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson spoke about the performance of star striker Paul Mullin and provided an update on his status ahead of the upcoming match against Barnsley.
Parkinson praised Mullin for his outstanding contributions to the team, highlighting his goal-scoring abilities and work rate on the field. He commended Mullin for his dedication and leadership, noting that he has been a key player for Wrexham this season.
However, Parkinson also revealed that Mullin is currently dealing with a minor injury and will be assessed closer to the game against Barnsley. The manager expressed confidence in Mullin’s ability to recover in time for the crucial match, but emphasized the need to prioritize his health and well-being.
Fans are eagerly awaiting further updates on Mullin’s condition and are hopeful that he will be fit to play against Barnsley. With his impressive form and goal-scoring prowess, Mullin’s presence on the field could be a game-changer for Wrexham as they aim for a positive result in the upcoming fixture.
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