Happy 21st Birthday to my son Christian Burnette!
Major League All-Star game recap: Young Stars Light Up Mid-Summer Classic
ARLINGTON, Texas — Jarren Duran made a memorable debut in his first All-Star Game, hitting a tie-breaking two-run homer that secured the American League’s 5-3 victory over the National League. Duran’s homer, which came in the fifth inning off Cincinnati’s Hunter Greene, earned him the MVP trophy named after Red Sox legend Ted Williams. Reflecting on the honor, Duran expressed his admiration for Williams, calling it an honor to follow in his footsteps. The 413-foot homer capped off a stellar performance by Duran, who was one of 39 first-time All-Stars this year. Other highlights included a three-run homer by Shohei Ohtani, giving the AL an early 3-0 lead, and dominant pitching performances from rookies like Pittsburgh’s Paul Skenes and Oakland’s Mason Miller, who threw a record-breaking 103.6 mph pitch.
The game was a showcase of emerging talent, with young stars like Duran and Skenes making significant impacts. Skenes, the first rookie starter since 1995, pitched a hitless first inning, while Ohtani’s homer made him the first Dodgers player to go deep in the All-Star Game since 1996. The AL’s victory marked their 10th win in the past 11 All-Star Games, improving their overall record to 48-44-2. Corbin Burnes, the AL starter, arrived just in time for the game after spending time with his newborn twins, and delivered a solid performance, allowing just one hit in his inning. The game concluded with Cleveland’s Emmanuel Clase striking out two in the ninth for the save, sealing a night that celebrated both seasoned and up-and-coming talents in Major League Baseball.
WNBA Strikes It Rich With $2 Billion in Media-Rights Deals
The WNBA has struck gold with a staggering $2.2 billion in new media-rights deals, marking a pivotal moment in the league’s history. The agreements, forged with heavyweights ESPN, Amazon, and NBC, more than triple the league’s current media revenue, rocketing it from $60 million to $200 million annually. This surge in media rights couldn’t have come at a better time as the league, basking in an unprecedented wave of popularity, was negotiating new deals with its existing contracts set to expire after the 2025 season. The new agreements not only reflect the league’s growing influence but also leave room for even more revenue, with provisions allowing for separate deals potentially worth an additional $60 million per year and a review of the deal’s value after just three years.
Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s strategic decision to negotiate alongside the NBA proved to be a masterstroke, aligning the WNBA’s fortunes with the NBA’s massive $76 billion media deals with the same partners. Engelbert had aimed to double the league’s media-rights income and her vision has been realized in spectacular fashion. By presenting a united front with the NBA, the WNBA offered broadcasters a year-round basketball package, enhancing its appeal. These groundbreaking deals are a testament to Engelbert’s leadership and the league’s rising prominence, setting the stage for an even brighter future.
On a related note, Women’s Sports Merch Is a $4 Billion Market, but Supply Isn’t Meeting Demand
- Growing fandom is driving unprecedented demand. But without key infrastructure, retailers are leaving money on the table.
Football Concerning Trade Request: Brandon Aiyuk Seeks Exit from 49ers
Brandon Aiyuk, under contract for over $14 million this season, has officially requested a trade from the 49ers after unsuccessful offseason attempts to negotiate an extension. Despite a recent meeting, the team has not engaged in negotiations since May, prompting Aiyuk to respectfully seek a way out. The 49ers previously navigated a trade request from Deebo Samuel; it remains to be seen if they can manage Aiyuk’s request similarly. The leverage is held by SF in a case like this. 5th year option players are subject to fines for missing camp as well as preseason games. I believe its $40K per day and about $785K for each preseason game.
CONMEBOL, Hard Rock Stadium Continue Trading Blame Over Copa Disaster
Of course you know who’s at fault in this soccer debacle, right? The organizer and venue have blamed each other for Sunday night’s security breach. CONMEBOL says the stadium ignored its recommendations, while Hard Rock Stadium said it exceeded them.
Following the chaos at the Copa América final at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, where unticketed fans stormed the gates, causing delays and dozens of arrests, including the president of the Colombian soccer federation, a blame game has ensued. Hard Rock Stadium and CONMEBOL have exchanged increasingly accusatory statements. Hard Rock Stadium claimed all parties jointly decided to open the gates to prevent stampedes, while CONMEBOL blamed the stadium for not following proven security procedures. Hard Rock Stadium defended its record, stating it exceeded security recommendations, while CONCACAF, co-organizer of the event, has remained silent amidst the controversy.
The Bears Sign Their “Rooks”
The Chicago Bears have made a significant move by signing rookie contracts with standout talents Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze. Caleb Williams, the dynamic quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner from USC, brings a blend of athleticism, arm strength, and football IQ that has electrified fans and analysts alike. Chicago’s No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams is signing a four-year, fully-guaranteed contract worth $39 million that includes a $25.5 million signing bonus and a fifth-year team option, per sources. Rome Odunze, a top-tier wide receiver from Washington, is known for his impressive speed, route-running precision, and reliable hands. The No. 9 overall pick Rome Odunze pens a four-year, $22.7 million fully guaranteed rookie deal with a fifth-year option, per source. The pairing of Williams and Odunze promises to invigorate the Bears’ offense, offering a glimpse of a bright future for the franchise. As these two young stars join the team, expectations are high for their immediate impact and long-term contributions to Chicago’s success.
When do NFL training camps begin? Here’s the official team openings:
- Wednesday, July 17 — Houston Texans
- Friday, July 19 — Chicago Bears
- Saturday, July 20 — Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens
- Sunday, July 21 — Green Bay Packers
- Tuesday, July 23 — Arizona Cardinals, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Washington Commanders
- Wednesday, July 24 — Atlanta Falcons, Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers
A Moment of Silence for 2024’s Corner Of Remembrance
Tribute to the Departed Sports Legends of 2024
The year 2024 has seen the departure of numerous sports luminaries, leaving behind legacies that will forever be etched in the memories of their respective games and fanbase. As we remember these icons, we celebrate their contributions and the indelible marks they left on sports history.
Basketball
We honor the memory of Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, who passed away at the age of 69. As the father of the late Kobe Bryant, Joe carved out his own path in the NBA, playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets. His influence extended beyond his playing days as he continued to inspire as a coach. Another colossal loss for basketball was Jerry West, the NBA super GM and a Laker great, who left us at age 86. West’s silhouette is immortalized in the league’s logo, a testament to his impact on the game. The basketball community also mourned the untimely passing of Dejan Milojević, a former professional player and assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors, who died at 46 in January. His contributions to player development and the sport’s growth were profound. Pat Williams, a co-founder of the Orlando Magic who spent more than a half-century working within the NBA, transitioned July 17 from complications related to viral pneumonia, the team announced. Williams was 84.
Baseball
The baseball world bid farewell to several legends. Orlando Cepeda, a Hall of Famer, passed at 86, leaving behind a legacy of power and grace on the field. Willie Mays, “The Say Hey Kid,” who was not only a baseball icon but also a symbol of excellence, passed at the age of 93. We also remember Mike Brumley, a former player for the Detroit Tigers, who died at 61, and Bud Harrelson, the shortstop of the 1969 Miracle Mets, who left an indelible mark on the sport.
Football
In football, the loss of Jacoby Jones at age 40, a dynamic wide receiver and return specialist, left a void. Monte Kiffin, a legendary defensive coach, passed at 84, leaving behind a rich legacy of innovation and success. The sudden passing of Khyree Jackson at 24, a promising talent, and Golden Richards, a former wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys who died at 73, were deeply felt. Additionally, we remember Vontae Davis, who passed at 35, and Tony Hutson, who died at 49, for their contributions to the NFL and the joy they brought to fans.
Soccer
The soccer world mourned the loss of Franz Beckenbauer, who passed away at 78 in January. Known as “Der Kaiser,” Beckenbauer’s achievements were unparalleled, winning the World Cup both as a player and a coach for Germany. His elegance on the field and tactical genius as a coach made him a legend in the truest sense. His time with the New York Cosmos also helped popularize soccer in the United States, leaving a lasting legacy.