• Joined ESPN in 2011 • Covered two Olympics, a pair of Rugby World Cups and two British & Irish Lions tours • Previously rugby editor, and became senior writer in 2018
Wrexham have announced the signings of former England striker Jay Rodríguez and forward Sam Smith, with sources telling ESPN that the deal for Smith is a club-record.
Rodríguez, 35, joins Wrexham from Burnley after undergoing a medical on Friday. He won his sole England cap in 2013.
Smith’s arrival from Reading was confirmed by Wrexham on Friday, and sources have told ESPN the deal is comfortably a club record for a transfer and has broken the £1 million ($1.2m) barrier. Smith has signed a three-and-a-half year deal.
“I’m excited to be a part of the journey now and I want to try to help the club achieve its ambitions,” Smith said.
Manager Phil Parkinson added: “Sam is a player we’ve been pursuing for a while.
“He’s a striker who’s done really well over the last few seasons and he’s at a great age.”
In a shocking turn of events, Wrexham AFC have announced the signing of Jay Rodríguez from Burnley and Sam Smith from Reading for a club-record fee.
Rodríguez, who has previously played for Southampton and West Bromwich Albion, brings a wealth of experience and goal-scoring prowess to the Welsh club. The 32-year-old striker is expected to be a key player for Wrexham as they push for promotion in the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, 23-year-old forward Sam Smith joins Wrexham from Reading in a deal that has shattered the club’s previous transfer record. Smith is highly rated and has the potential to make a big impact at his new club.
Fans of Wrexham are buzzing with excitement over these new signings and are hopeful that they will help take the team to new heights. Stay tuned for more updates on Wrexham’s summer transfer dealings. #WrexhamFC #JayRodriguez #SamSmith #TransferNews
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Wrexham, Jay Rodríguez, Sam Smith, club-record fee, transfer news, football signings, sports updates, Wrexham FC, player transfers, English football clubs, soccer news
TBR Football understand Leeds United have now opened talks with Southampton over a deal to sign Cameron Archer.
Daniel Farke currently has the Whites sitting at the top of the Championship – although the German could use some added firepower in attack with Sheffield United and Burnley in hot pursuit.
Joel Piroe boasts a respectable record of ten goals in 29 Championship appearances so far this season, but Mateo Joseph only has two goals in 28 games, so Leeds could do with someone to push the Dutchman.
Leeds United in talks to sign Cameron Archer from Southampton
Graeme Bailey – Chief Correspondent at TBR Football – has now been told that Leeds are currently holding talks with Southampton over a deal for the man born in Walsall.
Archer – who Southampton signed from Aston Villa in a £15m deal back in August – has only made ten Premier League starts out of a possible 23 this season, scoring twice, and the Saints are ready to let him depart.
We understand Southampton would allow the 23-year-old to leave on loan, but will insist on an obligation for Leeds to buy him permanently if they achieve promotion to the Premier League.
Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
Sources have also told TBR Football that Sunderland are ready to make a bid for Archer as well, although Leeds – who face a fight to keep Pascal Struijk from Tottenham and Wolves – are in pole position.
The Whites are also believed to have shown an interest in Middlesbrough No.9 Emmanuel Latte Lath, but their attention is now solely on the Southampton No.19 – who is understood to be keen on a move to Elland Road.
Cameron Archer has been compared to Jean-Philippe Mateta
Archer boasts a strong record in the Championship, having previously scored 18 goals in 40 appearances for Middlesbrough and Preston.
Despite his struggles for a consistent starting role this season, the England U21 international is still doing plenty right in terms of underlying numbers, with data site FBref comparing him to Jean-Philippe Mateta and Rasmus Hojlund, two strong Premier League strikers.
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Leeds United are reportedly in talks to sign a £15m striker who has been compared to Jean-Philippe Mateta, and it seems like he is eager to make the move to Elland Road.
The 24-year-old forward has been turning heads with his performances in his current club, and Leeds are keen to bring him in to bolster their attacking options.
Comparisons to Crystal Palace’s Mateta have been made due to their similar playing styles and goal-scoring abilities, and it seems like Leeds are looking to replicate the success that Mateta has had in the Premier League.
Reports suggest that the striker is excited about the prospect of joining Leeds United and playing under Marcelo Bielsa, and negotiations are said to be progressing well.
With Leeds looking to secure their place in the Premier League for another season, the addition of this talented striker could be just what they need to push them up the table.
Fans will be eagerly awaiting confirmation of the signing, and if all goes well, they could soon be seeing this exciting new talent in action at Elland Road.
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Leeds United, £15m striker, transfer news, Jean-Philippe Mateta, signing, negotiations, football, Premier League, Leeds United transfer rumors
MLB free agency is nearing its conclusion, with many of the big names off the board and spring training right around the corner. But some impact players are still available.
Here’s a look at where things stand so far this offseason:
Scherzer was No. 42 on Yahoo Sports’ list of this winter’s top 50 free agents. He was injured for much of 2024, pitching just 43 1/3 innings with a 3.95 ERA, but the season prior, he helped the Texas Rangers win the World Series.
Atlanta Braves sign outfielder Jurickson Profar
After a relatively quiet offseason, the Braves are adding 2024 All-Star Jurickson Profar on a three-year, $42 million contract. Profar spent the previous season and a half with the San Diego Padres, hitting .280/.380/459 in 2024 and earning a Silver Slugger Award. He will make $12 million in 2025 and $15 million in each of the following two seasons.
Since winning the World Series in 2021, the Braves have struggled to get back to the top of the sport. They’ve reached the playoffs in the past three seasons but haven’t made it past the division series.
Follow along with Yahoo Sports as we track all the rumors, signings and more during MLB free agency:
Live160 updates
SP Michael King avoids arbitration, settles with San Diego Padres
King’s deal includes a $1 million salary for 2025 plus a $3 million signing bonus. There is also a mutual option for 2026 that is worth $15 million.
The 2025 contract includes incentives that could push his total earnings to $8 million.
The 29-year-old King came to San Diego in the Juan Soto trade in December 2023. He made 30 starts last season and recorded a 2.95 ERA with 201 strikeouts in 173 2/3 innings.
We have reached an agreement with RHP Michael King on a one-year contract for the 2025 season with a mutual option for 2026.
Free-agent infielder Jorge Polanco in agreement with Mariners, pending physical, sources tell me and @Chandler_Rome. Had been Astros target. Mariners acquired him from Twins last January.
Polanco deal guarantees him $7.75 million, per source. $7 million base salary for 2025 plus a $750K buyout on the player/mutual option. @Ken_Rosenthal was on it.
Dodgers make Kirby Yates deal official, DFA Ryan Brasier
Here is the state of the Los Angeles Dodgers: They just DFA’d Ryan Brasier, who has a 1.89 ERA in 68 appearances across two seasons with the team, because he is their sixth-best right-handed reliever.
Brasier, who is due $4.5 million for this season, will almost certainly draw trade interest, but the Dodgers now have Kirby Yates (officially), Blake Treinen, Michael Kopech, Brusdar Graterol and Even Phillips on the right-handed side alone.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have agreed to terms with RHP Kirby Yates on a one-year contract for $13 million. The Dodgers designated RHP Ryan Brasier for assignment to make room on the 40-man roster.
What to make of this deal for Scherzer and the Jays?
It wasn’t much of a mystery what kind of contract Scherzer would command after fellow veteran right-handers Alex Cobb, Charlie Morton and Justin Verlander all inked one-year, $15M pacts earlier this winter, but it took a while for Scherzer’s potential landing spots to crystalize. Ultimately, the Blue Jays emerged as the strongest candidates to secure the future Hall of Famer’s services, and a deal came together less than two weeks before pitchers and catchers report to spring training.
Having already addressed their needs for power and bullpen help with Anthony Santander and Jeff Hoffman, Toronto has now tabbed Scherzer as their salve for a rotation that also needed reinforcing. Add the December acquisition of second baseman Andrés Giménez to vastly improve the club’s infield defense, and the Jays have upgraded nearly every facet of their club this winter. Extending Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remains the most consequential decision facing Toronto this offseason, but the club has unquestionably gotten better across the board this winter.
Have the Jays improved enough to warrant consideration as legitimate postseason contenders coming off a last-place finish in 2024? If Scherzer can stay healthy for a full season, there’s a good bit to be excited about in the rotation, which features three other highly accomplished right-handers in Kevin Gausman, José Berríos and Chris Bassitt. If Bowden Francis’ surprising second-half breakout from last season was legit, this could end up being one of the stronger units in the American League. However, those are some pretty big “ifs.” Scherzer, who turns 41 in June, made only nine starts in 2023 and has navigated myriad ailments in recent years.
Toronto will still need a lot to go right on both sides of the ball to compete in the unforgiving AL East, but credit to them for pushing aggressively to improve the roster, even after several failed free-agent pursuits earlier in the offseason. — Shusterman
Scherzer was No. 42 on Yahoo Sports’ list of this winter’s top 50 free agents. He was injured for much of 2024, pitching just 43 1/3 innings with a 3.95 ERA, but the season prior, he helped the Texas Rangers win the World Series.
Estévez spent last year with the Angels and Phillies, pitching to a 2.45 ERA with 50 strikeouts in 55 innings. In the postseason with Philadelphia, Estévez made three appearances, pitching 2 2/3 innings and surrendering two runs while recording four strikeouts.
Reds reportedly acquiring Taylor Rogers from Giants
Rogers has spent the past two seasons with San Francisco, posting a 3.06 ERA and throwing 128 strikeouts in 111 2/3 relief innings.
The Cincinnati Reds are finalizing a trade to acquire left-handed reliever Taylor Rogers from the San Francisco Giants, sources tell me and @kileymcd. Rogers, 34, is owed $12 million this season and adds a late-inning arm to Cincinnati’s bullpen. On the news: @ByRobertMurray.
Amid an offseason of uncertainty for the franchise due to the damage done to Tropicana Field by Hurricane Milton, the Rays have quietly gone about their business in hopes of upgrading a roster coming off the franchise’s worst finish since 2017.
This deal addresses an obvious short-term need in a similar fashion to the one-year pact with backstop Danny Jansen inked earlier this offseason. While Junior Caminero appears primed to seize the third-base job, shortstop projected as a position of weakness for the Rays. Taylor Walls is a tremendous defender but an abysmal hitter, and Jose Caballero profiles better in a utility role than as an every-day shortstop. The 21-year-old Carson Williams is one of baseball’s top overall prospects and spent all of 2024 at Double-A, but his strikeout issues suggest he might still be a year or two away from being ready to contribute in the big leagues. Kim represents an ideal bridge to Williams, whether he ends up opting out after 2025 or sticks around for both years of his deal.
A fantastic glove in his own right, Kim offers similar defensive upside to Walls and far greater upside with the bat. The unknown with Kim — and surely the reason the 29-year-old had to settle for a deal much lower than what many projected — is how he’ll bounce back from shoulder surgery, which cut his 2024 season short. Walls and Caballero will likely continue to cover short to open the season, but the hope is that Kim can return in May and upgrade the position in a meaningful way. It’s a sensible landing spot for Kim and a nice upside play for a Rays franchise whose limited budget generally precludes them pursuing free agents capable of 4-plus WAR seasons.
Rays agree to two-year, $29 million deal with infielder Ha-Seong Kim
Infielder Ha-Seong Kim is heading to the Tampa Bay Rays, agreeing to a two-year, $29 million contract with the team, per multiple reports. The deal reportedly includes an opt-out after the first season.
Kim, who spent the past four seasons with the San Diego Padres, is recovering from shoulder surgery but is reportedly expected to return to play in May. He is expected to take over at shortstop in Tampa.
Tigers reportedly in agreement with Tommy Kahnle
The Detroit Tigers and right-handed pitcher Tommy Kahnle are in agreement on a one-year, $7.75 million deal, per multiple reports. Kahnle spent the previous two seasons with the New York Yankees, posting a 2.38 ERA with 94 strikeouts in 83 1/3 innings pitched.
Source confirms: Tommy Kahnle in agreement with Tigers on one-year, $7.75M contract. First with terms: @ByRobertMurray
The former Texas Rangers closer has agreed to a one-year, $13 million contract with an additional $1 million in incentives for games played, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
The Dodgers are now on track for a $379 million payroll, per Fangraphs’ estimate, which would be the largest payroll in MLB history. The 110% CBT surcharge would mean this deal is more like a $27.3 million deal for them.
Yates is coming off one of the best seasons by a reliever in 2024, with a 1.17 ERA that ranked behind only Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase for the best mark among relievers.
MLB The Show announces cover athletes: Paul Skenes, Gunnar Henderson, Elly De La Cruz
For the first time ever, MLB The Show has three cover athletes: 2024 NL Rookie of the Year and Pirates ace Paul Skenes, 2023 AL Rookie of the Year and Orioles slugger Gunnar Henderson, and Reds All-Star shortstop Elly De La Cruz.
Is Steve Cohen right to complain about the Mets’ Pete Alonso negotiations?
Ryan Pressly to the Cubs
The Houston Astros stuck a deal on Sunday to send closer Ryan Pressly to the Chicago Cubs. Pressly waived his no-trade clause in order to make the deal happen.
The 36-year-old held a 3.49 ERA in 56 2/3 innings last season with the Astros. The longtime veteran earned two All-Star nods during his seven-year run in Houston, with the most recent coming in 2021.
The Chicago Cubs are finalizing a trade to acquire closer Ryan Pressly from the Houston Astros, pending medical review, sources tell ESPN. Pressly will waive his no-trade clause to Chicago to facilitate the move, and Houston will send money to help cover his $14 million salary.
Mets owner Steve Cohen gets candid about Alonso trade: “I don’t like what’s been presented to us”
The New York Mets have been making big moves this offseason, including signing Juan Soto to a mega contract. But one stubborn piece of the Mets’ offseason has been trying to bring back Pete Alonso.
At a fan fest event on Saturday, Mets owner Steve Cohen made it clear that negotiations are ongoing, but he is frustrated with the process.
“Personally, this has been an exhausting conversation and negotiation. I mean, Soto was tough — this is worse,” Cohen said.
With things dragging on, Cohen even hinted that the team might have to move on from Alonso if the two sides remain in limbo.
“As we continue to bring in players, reality is [it] becomes harder to fit in Pete to what is a very expensive group of players that we already have,” he said.
Jose Altuve open to changing positions if it helps bring Alex Bregman back
On the news that the Astros have reengaged with Alex Bregman, second baseman Jose Altuve was asked how he would help bring the longtime third baseman back to Houston.
“For Alex, I’ll do whatever,” Altuve said. That reportedly includes moving to the outfield and allowing Isaac Paredes, who was acquired in the Kyle Tucker trade with the Cubs, to take his spot at second base.
“For Alex, I’ll do whatever,” Jose Altuve said. “Whatever I have to do for him to stay, I’m willing to do.”
Yes, that includes moving to the outfield, Altuve said.
Alex Bregman’s career with the Astros appeared to be over after Houston signed free-agent first baseman Christian Walker. However, with Bregman’s market apparently stalled, the Astros have resumed talks with the third baseman, who has played all nine of his MLB seasons with Houston, The Athletic reports.
Bregman has reportedly attracted interest from the Red Sox, Blue Jays and Tigers. But his rumored pursuit of a contract in the five-year, $200 million range has apparently been an obstacle, as it was with the Astros.
Houston made a six-year, $156 million offer to Bregman, and that deal is still available, according to reports.
Bregman batted .260 with a .768 OPS, 26 home runs, 30 doubles and 75 RBI in 634 plate appearances last season for the Astros.
What to make of Profar’s deal with Atlanta?
Traditionally one of the more active teams each winter, Atlanta had been eerily quiet this offseason coming off its seventh consecutive trip to October. The Braves were one of just a handful of teams that had yet to sign a free agent to a guaranteed big-league deal this winter, but they finally got on the board with the addition of Profar on a three-year deal worth $42 million.
The Padres — with whom Profar starred in his breakout 2024 season — have also yet to sign a major-league free agent this winter, and they surely would’ve loved a reunion with Profar. But San Diego’s ongoing ownership dispute and bloated payroll apparently made retaining Profar difficult. Instead, he joins a Braves team that had an unsettled left-field depth chart that projected to feature the largely unproven Jarred Kelenic and recent signee Bryan De La Cruz in a platoon of sorts. Now that duo can cover right field until Ronald Acuña Jr. returns from ACL injury, at which point Acuña should join Profar and center fielder Michael Harris II to form one of the more dangerous outfield trios in the National League.
The switch-hitting Profar and his excellent on-base skills will provide some much-needed balance to a Braves lineup that severely underwhelmed in 2024. While Profar’s plate discipline has always been stellar, it was a notable uptick in power production supported by huge strides in his batted-ball quality that fueled his 2024 breakout that he has now parlayed into an eight-figure deal. Although he’ll no longer be a main character in the Dodgers-Padres rivalry, Profar could continue to play a key role for a team hoping to dethrone the champs in 2025.
Jurickson Profar signs with Braves
Outfielder Jurickson Profar has signed a three-year, $42 million deal with the Atlanta Braves, the team announced Thursday.
Last season with the San Diego Padres, Profar posted a career year, batting .280, hitting 24 home runs and driving in 85 runs with 10 stolen bases. Among National League left fielders, his 4.3 fWAR was highest, and he was above the 90th percentile in expected wOBA (.364) and expected batting average (.283). He was also the sixth-best hitter by wRC+ in the NL.
Anthony Santander’s deal with Blue Jays includes $61.75M in deferred money, opt-out
Anthony Santander’s five-year, $92.5M includes $61.75M deferred, according to a copy of the deal viewed by The Athletic. Present-day overall value by union’s calculation is $68.6M with a $13.7M AAV.
Santander deal includes opt out after third year. If he opts out, Jays can void it by increasing salary by $2.5M in each of final two years and exercising option for 2030 at $17.5M.
In a surprising turn of events, the Atlanta Braves have made a big splash in free agency by signing infielder Jurickson Profar to a lucrative 3-year, $42 million deal. Profar, who spent last season with the San Diego Padres, is known for his versatility and defensive prowess, making him a valuable addition to the Braves’ roster.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Blue Jays have also made a major move by signing star pitcher Max Scherzer to a deal, bolstering their pitching staff and solidifying their status as contenders in the American League. Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Blue Jays, who are looking to make a deep playoff run next season.
Both signings are sure to shake up the landscape of the MLB and will be worth keeping an eye on as the season approaches. Stay tuned for more updates on free agency moves and roster changes as teams prepare for the upcoming season.
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MLB free agency, Braves, Jurickson Profar, 3-year deal, $42 million, Max Scherzer, Toronto Blue Jays, baseball signings, MLB news
The Mets will have an additional experienced infielder to consider for a utility role this spring.
Nick Madrigal, a player known for his glove, was signed Friday, according to the Mets, to a split major league contract.
The major league portion of the contract is worth $1.35 million, according to The Post’s Joel Sherman, and contains another $500,000 in performance bonuses.
Madrigal, 27, spent the last three seasons with the Cubs. Last year, he appeared in 51 games and produced a .535 OPS.
The Mets signed Nick Madrigal to a one-year deal. Getty Images
He will join another former Cubs player, Jared Young, in camp as somebody with MLB experience vying for an infield job.
Jose Iglesias shined in a utility infield role for the Mets last season, but there hasn’t been much impetus at this point for a reunion, according to industry sources.
Iglesias hasn’t been ruled out, but team officials also don’t believe it’s necessary to add another veteran backup given the number of infielders within the farm system who might be ready to contribute this year.
Jose Iglesias remains a free agent. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
It’s a list that includes Luisangel Acuna, Ronny Mauricio and Jett Williams.
The Mets also began playing Brett Baty at second base at Triple-A Syracuse in the second half of last season.
Mauricio missed all of last season rehabbing from surgery to repair a torn anterior circulate ligament — he underwent a subsequent procedure to remove scar tissue from the knee — and it’s possible he won’t be an option to begin the season with the club.
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But a player such as Madrigal can be used as a bridge if Mauricio or Acuna isn’t deemed as the best option to begin the season with the club.
The Mets took a similar approach last year, opening the season with Zack Short and Joey Wendle on the roster.
Both were removed from the equation by late May, giving Iglesias an opportunity with the club.
Nick Madrigal spent the last three years with the Cubs. Getty Images
As it stands, the Mets are unsettled in the infield as Pete Alonso’s free agency continues. If Alonso is not re-signed, Mark Vientos and Baty figure into the plan at first base.
But if the Mets and Alonso can still reach an agreement, it would allow Vientos to remain at third.
The New York Mets have made a move to bolster their infield depth by signing former Chicago White Sox second baseman Nick Madrigal. The 24-year-old brings a versatile skill set to the Mets, as he can play both second base and shortstop.
Madrigal, a former first-round draft pick out of Oregon State, has shown excellent contact hitting ability throughout his young career. In 2021, he batted .305 with a .346 on-base percentage in 54 games with the White Sox before suffering a season-ending hamstring injury.
With Madrigal in the mix, the Mets now have added depth and flexibility in their infield, giving manager Buck Showalter more options to mix and match his lineup. Madrigal’s ability to make consistent contact and provide solid defense will be valuable assets for the Mets as they look to compete in a tough NL East division.
Overall, the signing of Nick Madrigal is a solid move for the Mets as they continue to build their roster for the upcoming season. His versatility and skill set will undoubtedly make him a valuable asset for the team in the years to come.
Laura Linney, an Aquarius. Photo-Illustration: by The Cut; Getty Images
The moon moves through gentle Pisces today, squaring off with Jupiter in the morning before aligning with Saturn at night. You’re likely to feel relatively cheerful early in the day, but be mindful not to get overconfident, or you could make careless mistakes. Later in the day, the mood gets more serious as your responsibilities to others weigh heavily on you. Don’t feel guilty for being unable to single handedly solve all the world’s problems — everyone has their own small role to play; focus on fulfilling yours.
You try not to dwell on your shortcomings — it only makes you feel guilty and powerless, and you’d rather direct your energies in more useful directions. Today, though, avoidance will feel worse than facing your imperfections head-on. Taking an honest look at the traits you don’t like — neither reprimanding nor justifying yourself — can be clarifying and surprisingly freeing. There’s no shame in having flaws — the key is to remember that they don’t define you.
In general, you strive to be happy with what you have. That’s not to say that you don’t have big dreams, only that you want to enjoy life now, not put it off until you’ve achieved more. Today, though, you might worry that this approach is inadequate, that you should have built greater successes by now. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not you’re satisfied with the life you’re living — just remember that being hard on yourself won’t make you happier ormore successful. However you want to grow, you can be kind to yourself while you do it.
You might feel your limitations acutely today. You have soaring ambition, but only so many hours in the day; there’s so much you’d like to do, but limited resources make it necessary to prioritize. While it might be tempting to push yourself to cram more into each day, you’ll be more successful if you accept the fact that you can’t do everything — at least, not all at once. Instead, try to accept that the conditions aren’t perfect, and find ways to live a rich and meaningful life anyway.
There’s so much in the world that’s completely outside your control that you sometimes start to wonder whether it’s worth trying to change any of it at all. It might be easier, you think, to just make the best of things. Today, though, defeat might feel intolerable. You’re tired of treading water; you want a world where you can thrive. So don’t shrug and accept it: Find one area where you can make a difference, one person you can help, one small issue you have the power to change, and get started.
You might react to situations more emotionally than rationally today — and as a result, you could end up taking dramatic action, speaking before you think, or making big, unplanned life changes. Instead of beating yourself up, just adjust your plans and go with it. That’s not to say you should try to make chaotic choices — only that if you end up moving in an unexpected direction, trust that you’ve got what it takes to navigate the detour, and come out stronger on the other side.
Sometimes, alone time is necessary to think clearly and see your problems for what they are. Today, though, solitude is more likely to make you nervous and unsettled; you could quickly start spiraling as you ruminate on every loaded — or just awkward — interaction you’ve had lately. In the absence of other people, it’s easy to imagine that everyone’s out to get you — or that they never cared about you to begin with. But if you make a point to spend time with your friends, and even tell them about your concerns, you’ll be reminded that they’re on your side.
Today you might feel a strong sense of duty to the people around you. You’re eager to set aside your own desires and be an asset to your community — but while this sounds simple in theory, it can be incredibly difficult to figure out how to be of use. Nobody else is going to show up and tell you exactly how you can best contribute (as much as you might wish they would), so don’t be afraid to take matters into your own hands, either. You won’t be perfect, but simply putting yourself out there is the best way to get started.
You have a tendency to downplay your talents. Maybe you’re being modest, or maybe you genuinely think that, compared to other people, you don’t have anything special to offer. But while it’s valuable not to keep your ego in check, it’s possible to take it too far. You have unique skills and insights, but they won’t be of any use if you underplay their value. The world needs what you have to offer, so find a way to put your gifts to use.
Beneath your good-natured exterior, you have a confrontational streak. If somebody treats you rudely, you won’t take it lying down; if they hurt somebody you care about, you’ll defend their honor. Sometimes, it seems like the best, or even the only, way to do good in the world is by finding an opponent to fight and unleashing your ferocity. Today, though, you might do more good by caring for the people around you. The world doesn’t only need your fire — it needs your loving, protective energy, too.
If there’s one thing you can’t stand, it’s wasting time. Some people might be perfectly content to drift around without a plan, but you tend to get frustrated and antsy; you’re too aware of all the other, more useful ways you could be spending your time. Today, you might feel even more pressure than usual to make the most of your days — but remember that you’re not a machine. Give yourself space to wander: It might not be the most efficient, but it’ll make your life better all the same.
You’ve got the energy and drive to get ahead, but sometimes it feels like you’re only spinning your wheels without seeing any actual progress. Today you might feel like the answer is to push harder, move faster, do more — but that’s more likely to lead to burnout than to success. Stop imagining that you should be able to transform your life overnight — it’s an unrealistic goal that’s only putting unnecessary pressure on you. Commit to slow and steady change, and you’ll be surprised how far you get.
When you look around, you see so many people doing amazing things. It can seem like everyone else is constantly launching major projects, experiencing life-changing career successes, providing a crucial service to their communities. In comparison, your own contributions might seem embarrassingly small, at least to you. But today, resist the impulse to compare yourself to everybody else. What matters most isn’t whether you’re doing “more” or “less” than the people around you — this isn’t a competition — but that you’re carrying yourself in a way that you can be proud of.
Buy Claire Comstock-Gay’s book, Madame Clairevoyant’s Guide to the Stars, here.
Welcome to your daily horoscope readings for every zodiac sign on January 31, 2025. Read on to see what the stars have in store for you today:
Aries (March 21 – April 19): Today is a good day to focus on your personal goals and aspirations. Take some time to reflect on what you truly want in life and make a plan to achieve it.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20): You may feel a bit restless today, Taurus. Try to channel that energy into something productive, like starting a new project or taking up a new hobby.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20): Communication will be key for you today, Gemini. Make sure to express your thoughts and feelings clearly to avoid any misunderstandings.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22): You may feel a bit emotional today, Cancer. Take some time to nurture yourself and do something that brings you joy.
Leo (July 23 – August 22): Today is a good day to focus on your career and professional goals, Leo. Take the initiative to make progress in your work life.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22): You may feel a bit overwhelmed today, Virgo. Take a step back and prioritize your tasks to avoid feeling stressed.
Libra (September 23 – October 22): Relationships will be highlighted for you today, Libra. Make sure to spend quality time with your loved ones and nurture those connections.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Today is a good day to focus on your health and well-being, Scorpio. Take some time to exercise and eat healthy to feel your best.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): You may feel a bit scattered today, Sagittarius. Try to focus on one task at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Today is a good day to focus on your finances, Capricorn. Take a look at your budget and make a plan to save and invest wisely.
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): You may feel a bit restless today, Aquarius. Try to channel that energy into something creative or adventurous.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Relationships will be highlighted for you today, Pisces. Make sure to communicate openly and honestly with your loved ones to strengthen those connections.
Remember, these horoscope readings are just for fun and entertainment. Take them with a grain of salt and use your own intuition to guide you through the day. Have a wonderful day!
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On Friday, the New York Mets signed infielder Nick Madrigal to a major-league deal, according to The New York Post’s Joel Sherman. Madrigal conceivably fills the spot occupied by Jose Iglesias last season as a backup at second base and third base.
Madrigal had the worst season of his professional career last year with the Chicago Cubs. He hit .221 with a .535 OPS and no home runs in 51 games and 94 plate appearances at the major-league level and was demoted to Triple-A, where he suffered a broken hand in his first game there.
Madrigal, 27, was the No. 4 overall pick of the Chicago White Sox in 2018. The light-hitting infielder has four home runs and an 86 OPS+ in his career, which spans five seasons and 285 games. He has a career 9% strikeout rate, which is among the best in the majors.
He’s a younger (by more than seven years) version of Iglesias, who became a fan favorite and an important clubhouse piece in 2024. Iglesias’ “OMG” song became a hit last season. Not only did it play every time Iglesias, who recorded it under his performer name Candelita, came up to bat, but it also blared each time a Mets player hit a home run. The dugout and stands were full of “OMG” signs, too.
Iglesias had one of the best stretches of his career with the Mets, posting a .337.381/.830 line with four home runs and 26 RBIs in 85 regular-season games and 270 plate appearances. He had 10 hits in 46 playoff plate appearances.
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The New York Mets have reportedly signed infielder, potentially marking the end of Jose Iglesias and causing fans to say ‘OMG’ in response. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story! #Mets #MLB #InfielderSigning #JoseIglesias #OMG
The Mets made a low-risk depth move on Friday afternoon, signing 27-year-old infielder Nick Madrigal, according to The New York Post’s Jon Heyman. Madrigal, a right-handed hitter with experience at both second and third base, has been primarily known for his bat-to-ball skills and defensive versatility. However, his offensive production in recent years has left much to be desired.
Last season, Madrigal appeared in 51 games but had only 94 plate appearances, slashing .221/.280/.256 with 10 RBIs. Power is virtually nonexistent in his game—he has just four career home runs over 285 major league games. Given his limited offensive ceiling, he’s more likely to serve as a depth piece in Triple-A rather than making an immediate impact on the major league roster.
Credit: Mark Hoffman;Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
Defensive Fit and Positional Insurance
While Madrigal has experience at both second and third base, the Mets are clearly bringing him in as insurance for Brett Baty, who is currently projected to be the team’s starting third baseman. Madrigal logged 138 innings at third base last season and 91 at second, but his defensive metrics weren’t particularly strong. He combined for -2 defensive runs saved and -5 outs above average, showing that he’s not exactly a standout defender.
Historically, third base has been his stronger position, which is likely why the Mets see value in having him around. With Mark Vientos preparing for a transition to first base—assuming Pete Alonso doesn’t return—the Mets need as many infield depth options as possible. Madrigal fits the bill as a contact hitter who can provide defensive flexibility, but it remains to be seen if he’ll earn a roster spot.
A Role in Triple-A Seems Likely
Given his struggles at the plate and his defensive limitations, Madrigal is more of a safety net than an immediate contributor. The Mets are likely bringing him in to compete for a spot in camp, but barring an injury or an unexpected performance surge, he seems destined to start the season in Syracuse.
For a team looking to solidify its infield situation, this is more of a footnote than a headline-grabbing move. But in a long season, depth matters, and Madrigal gives the Mets another option should they need reinforcement at third base.
The New York Mets have added some infield depth by signing 27-year-old versatile infielder to a contract. This move is sure to bolster their roster and provide some much-needed flexibility in the infield. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting signing! #Mets #InfieldDepth #MLBSigning
Madrigal, 28 in March, has spent the past five seasons in Chicago. Playing for both the White Sox and the Cubs, he has generally served as a light-hitting, part-time depth infielder. He has stepped to the plate 940 times over those five seasons. His 9% strikeout rate is very low but he also doesn’t walk much, taking free passes 4.6% of the time. While he puts the ball in play a lot, he doesn’t do a ton of damage in the process. He currently has just four home runs and sports a career batting line of .274/.323/.344 for an 88 wRC+. Statcast hasn’t given him strong marks for his exit velocity, hard hit rate nor his barrel rate.
He has been able to contribute in other ways. He has 17 stolen bases in 23 attempts. His defense is also well regarded. He has racked up eight Defensive Runs Saved at third base in his career and has been league average at second base. Outs Above Average has given him a +7 score at the hot corner and +2 at the keystone.
More to come.
According to reports, the New York Mets are set to sign second baseman Nick Madrigal to a multi-year deal. Madrigal, who was recently traded from the Chicago White Sox to the Chicago Cubs, is known for his impressive defensive skills and ability to make contact at the plate.
Mets fans are excited about the addition of Madrigal to the roster, as he is seen as a potential key piece in helping the team compete for a playoff spot in the upcoming season. With his speed on the basepaths and consistent bat, Madrigal could provide a much-needed spark to the Mets’ lineup.
Stay tuned for official confirmation from the team and more details on Madrigal’s contract with the Mets. In the meantime, Mets fans can look forward to seeing Madrigal in action and cheering him on as he helps lead the team to victory. #LGM #NickMadrigal #MetsSigning
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The St. Louis Blues and Saad mutually agreed to terminate his contract. The agreement will see Saad sacrifice his remaining salary for this season as well as the $4.5 million owed next season, the final year of his five-year pact.
The 32-year-old has seven goals and nine assists for 16 points in 43 games this season.
Last season, Saad racked up 26 goals, the most since the 2015-16 season when he played for the Columbus Blue Jackets. Saad finished the season with 42 points in 82 games.
Saad signed a five-year, $22.5 million contract with the Blues as a free agent on July 29, 2021. During his first season with the Blues, Saad tallied 24 goals and 25 assists for 49 points in 78 games, adding five points in 12 Stanley Cup Playoff games.
The two-time Stanley Cup champion was recently named to the Chicago Blackhawks Quarter-Century team. The Pittsburgh native spent seven years in Chicago and was a pivotal part of their Stanley Cup runs in 2012-13 and 2014-15. During his time in the Windy City, Saad notched 114 goals and 127 assists for 241 points in 428 regular season contests. Over the course of 906 career games, Saad has tallied 260 goals and 515 points with Chicago, Columbus, Colorado and St. Louis.
Brandon Saad is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, and several teams are expected to be interested in signing the talented forward. Among the teams to watch are the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vegas Golden Knights, New Jersey Devils, and Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Maple Leafs are in need of additional scoring depth to complement their star players, and Saad could provide just that. With his combination of skill and physicality, he would be a valuable asset for Toronto.
The Golden Knights have shown a willingness to make big moves in the past, and adding Saad to their already strong lineup could make them even more formidable. His playoff experience and ability to perform in clutch situations could be a perfect fit for Vegas.
The Devils are a young team on the rise, and adding a proven winner like Saad could help accelerate their rebuild. His leadership and experience could be invaluable in helping New Jersey take the next step in their development.
The Lightning are always a threat in the playoffs, and adding a player like Saad to their roster would only make them stronger. His two-way play and ability to contribute on both ends of the ice would be a great fit in Tampa Bay.
Overall, Brandon Saad is sure to attract plenty of interest from teams looking to improve their roster this offseason. Keep an eye on the Leafs, Golden Knights, Devils, and Lightning as potential landing spots for the talented forward.
