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MS Auditor calls for US House Rep. Bennie Thompson to resign

A bunch of Mississippi Republicans are calling for U.S. Home Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., to resign after a now former staffer posted help for a failed assassination try on former President Donald Trump.

In posts made on X Sunday, State Auditor Shad White and others referred to as out Thompson for hiring radical workers, referring to Jacqueline Marsaw, a area director who mentioned the person who shot at Trump throughout a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, ought to have practiced his intention higher in order that he would not “miss subsequent time.”

Examine Marsaw’s publishBennie Thompson staffer’s Fb web page posts ‘do not miss subsequent time’ after Trump capturing

White additionally mentioned Thompson ought to hand over his seat within the U.S. Home as a result of he filed a invoice earlier this yr that seeks to remove Trump’s Secret Service element as a convicted felon. That invoice is at the moment being thought-about within the U.S. Home Judiciary Committee.

“Bennie Thompson is a humiliation to the state,” White instructed the Clarion Ledger on Sunday. “It was fully irresponsible when he proposed laws to remove President Trump’s Secret Service safety. He is likely one of the most senior Democrats on the U.S. Home Homeland Safety committee, so he is aware of higher. For my part he wished to hazard President Trump’s life to attain some political factors. He has clearly employed and promoted nut job staffers, as one overtly referred to as for President Trump’s assassination. Thompson ought to resign instantly.”

The Mississippi Republican Social gathering, which beforehand referred to as for Marsaw to resign Saturday night time, posted to X later Sunday that Thompson wanted to stop, too, noting Marsaw’s publish, his Secret Service removing invoice and the Jan. 6, 2021, riot investigation committee that he sat on.

Mississippi GOP Chair Mike Hurst instructed the Clarion Ledger the demand got here from a number of locations, together with that Thompson reveals animosity towards Trump, the Jan. 6 committee hearings and a scarcity of response on Marsaw’s actions Saturday night time, amongst different causes.

“Congressman Thompson fired the woman, thank goodness, however he nonetheless does not condemn what she mentioned,” Hurst mentioned. “He hasn’t condemned what anybody else has mentioned both that continues to escalate the strain between People. I imply, we have got to have some grownups within the room, and proper now, Congressman Thompson just isn’t one among them.”

Thompson, who instructed the Clarion Ledger that Marsaw, as of Sunday, is not in his employment, stood by his invoice in a response to these scrutinizing his piece of laws.

In accordance with the U.S. Legislature web site, the invoice would solely take away Secret Service safety for convicted felons upon sentencing. Trump was convicted of 34 counts of falsifying enterprise data in Might in New York, however he has not been sentenced.

“My invoice wouldn’t have affected the Secret Service’s presence throughout this tragic occasion,” Thompson mentioned. “It goals to make clear strains of authority when a protectee is sentenced to jail and is within the custody of one other legislation enforcement company. That doesn’t apply to the previous President.”

On Saturday, whereas Trump was giving a speech to a crowd of hundreds in Butler, Pennsylvania, a number of photographs rang out by means of the gang, killing at the least one particular person, barely injuring Trump and critically wounding two others.

In accordance with reporting by the USA At present Community, Trump was not critically injured, and the shooter was recognized as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

U.S. House Rep. Bennie Thompson speaks during a news conference at Hinds Community College following the groundbreaking for the Medgar Evers Boulevard Project in Jackson on June 21. Thompson is now facing heat for a staffer who posted Saturday in support of an attack on former President Donald Trump.

Extra on the capturingTrump wounded at rally in assassination try; gunman killed

The FBI instructed reporters that Crooks was additionally shot useless inside moments of opening fireplace on Trump. Crooks was registered as a Republican and was in energetic voting standing, in response to the database service LexisNexis. He seems to have attended Bethel Park Excessive Faculty, graduating in 2022.

Mississippi Home Consultant and state Democratic Social gathering Chair Cheikh Taylor of Starkville instructed the Clarion Ledger he thought White’s publish sewed additional division throughout a time when state leaders and lawmakers must be coming collectively.

“Everybody must take a step again and take a look at what’s necessary,” Taylor mentioned. “An important factor is the poll field and fleshing points out in a manner that is peaceable and is respectable.”

Taylor mentioned it could be silly to carry Thompson accountable to the diploma White has demanded, particularly when contemplating Marsaw posted on her personal Fb web page with out anybody else’s prior information.

“There is no such thing as a option to management all of the concepts and thought processes of all staffers,” Taylor mentioned. “Everybody has the appropriate to their very own private opinions, however I belief Congressman Thompson, his management and his means to deal with his personal workplace. No matter choice he makes, I feel would be the proper choice.”

Learn state reactions to Trump assaultDonald Trump provided prayers, help from MS leaders following rally capturing

Marsaw didn’t reply to a request for remark by time of publication.

Editors observe: This story has been up to date to replicate a number of state Republicans calling for Thompson’s resignation. As of 4 p.m., Thompson had not but put out an announcement detailing the incident together with his staffer apart from to say she is not working there.

Grant McLaughlin covers state authorities for the Clarion Ledger. He could be reached at gmclaughlin@gannett.com or 972-571-2335.

Copa America final 2024: Lionel Messi exits after leg injury

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Lionel Messi’s night time ended early in the course of the Copa America last when he emotionally exited the sphere within the sixty fourth minute with an obvious leg harm on Sunday night time.

The 37-year-old appeared to undergo a noncontact harm whereas operating full velocity on the pitch as defending champ Argentina remained in a scoreless match towards Colombia.

Messi instantly regarded towards the Argentina bench as he went to the bottom. He remained down for a number of minutes as trainers got here out. He was helped to his ft and instantly took his shoe off his proper foot.

As he walked off the sphere, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner took off his captains armband and threw his shoe to the bottom in frustration. An emotional Messi was then proven overlaying his face, sobbing in his seat.

Messi went down within the first half after touchdown awkwardly when chasing a ball out of bounds. He rolled over a number of instances as he grabbed at his decrease proper leg. Trainers labored on the world for a couple of minutes earlier than serving to him to his ft. He walked slowly towards the sideline earlier than returning to the sport.

Messi had been coping with a leg harm and discomfort by way of a lot of the event and missed Argentina’s group stage finale. He had one shot try within the first half Sunday.

___

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Kate Middleton Makes Rare Public Appearance for Wimbledon Men’s Final

Kate Middleton acquired a standing ovation as she took her seat close to middle court docket at Wimbledon Sunday for the lads’s remaining, marking solely her second public look since revealing her most cancers prognosis earlier this yr.

On Saturday, Kensington Palace introduced that the Princess of Wales — a patron of the All-England Garden Tennis and Croquet Membership, the BBC studies — could be available to each watch after which ship the trophy to the winner of the match between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic.

HRH The Princess of Wales arrives on Centre Court | Wimbledon 2024

Earlier than taking her seat on the Royal Field at Centre Court docket for the championship match, Middleton, accompanied by her daughter Princess Charlotte, met with 2021 U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu in addition to younger British tennis gamers, the Related Press reported, including that Middleton wore purple because it is without doubt one of the tennis match’s official colours.

“Nice to be again at Wimbledon!,” Middletown wrote on social media accompanied by pictures of her on the tennis match. “There’s nothing fairly like The Championships.”

Middleton’s first public look since her most cancers revelation occurred in June when she attended the Trooping the Color ceremony in London celebrating the “official” birthday of King Charles III, who can be battling most cancers however has since returned to public-facing duties.

“I’m making good progress, however as anybody going via chemotherapy will know, there are good days and unhealthy days,” Middleton shared in an announcement previous to the Trooping the Color ceremony. 

Trending

“On these unhealthy days you’re feeling weak, drained and you need to give in to your physique resting. However on the great days, once you really feel stronger, you wish to profit from feeling nicely. My therapy is ongoing and might be for a number of extra months. On the times I really feel nicely sufficient, it’s a pleasure to have interaction with college life, spend private time on the issues that give me power and positivity, in addition to beginning to perform a little earn a living from home.”

Middleton’s husband Prince William spent Sunday in Berlin with a view to watch the Euro 2024 soccer remaining between England and Spain.

Fever vs. Lynx odds, time, spread: 2024 WNBA picks, Caitlin Clark predictions for July 14 from top expert

The Minnesota Lynx (16-7) host Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever (10-14) in a star-studded showdown on Sunday afternoon. That is the primary assembly of the season between these two groups. Indiana gained three of the 4 matchups final marketing campaign. Minnesota has been on a roll at house, profitable 5 of the final seven video games on the Goal Heart.

Tipoff is at 4 p.m. ET on the Goal Heart in Minnesota. The Lynx are 5.5-point favorites within the newest Fever vs. Lynx odds, whereas the over/beneath for complete factors scored is 164.5. Earlier than making any Lynx vs. Fever picks, make sure to see the WNBA predictions from SportsLine’s girls’s basketball skilled Calvin Wetzel. 

Because the begin of the 2021-22 girls’s school basketball marketing campaign, Wetzel is an insane 1,384-988 (+371.33 models). Wetzel additionally predicted 66 of 68 NCAA Ladies’s Event groups this 12 months, in addition to 62 of 68 groups inside one seed line, and appropriately picked 13 of 16 second-round video games. Anyone following him has seen large returns. 

Now, he has set his sights on Fever vs. Lynx and simply locked in his picks and WNBA predictions. You’ll be able to go to SportsLine now to see his picks. Listed below are a number of WNBA betting strains and tendencies for Lynx vs. Fever:

  • Fever vs. Lynx unfold: Minnesota -5.5
  • Fever vs. Lynx over/beneath: 164.5 factors 
  • Fever vs. Lynx cash line: Minnesota -235, Indiana +186
  • MIN: The Lynx are 5-2 ATS of their final seven video games following a straight-up loss
  • IND: The Fever are 8-3 ATS of their previous 11 video games general 
  • Fever vs. Lynx picks: See picks at SportsLine

Why the Fever can cowl

Guard Kelsey Mitchell thrives with the ball in her arms. Mitchell will put the ball on the ground to assault the lane however has a candy shot from the skin. The 28-year-old averages a team-best 16.9 factors and knocks down 37% of her 3-point makes an attempt. In Friday’s win over the Mercury, Mitchell had 28 factors and three boards.

Ahead Aliyah Boston has an excellent knack for producing nice seems to be on the rim with a capability to snag boards. The South Carolina product averages 13.5 factors with a team-high 8.5 rebounds per recreation. In her final battle, Boston totaled 21 factors, 13 rebounds, and 5 dimes. Ahead NaLyssa Smith offers Indiana one other presence within the frontcourt. Smith places up 11.6 factors and seven.8 rebounds per recreation. She’s recorded two double-doubles in her previous three video games. See which crew to select right here.

Why the Lynx can cowl

Minnesota has an array of playmakers. The Lynx can rating from all three ranges constantly whereas incorporating completely different parts to maintain defenses guessing. The Lynx rank first within the league in assists (23.3) and 3-point share (38.6) however second in steals per recreation (9.2) and 3-pointers made (224). 

Guard Kayla McBride offers this group with an efficient menace on the perimeter. McBride owns the ball handles to create her personal shot with ease. The 32-year-old logs 16 factors, three rebounds, and three.6 assists per recreation. She’s additionally second within the league with three 3-pointers made per recreation. On Friday, McBride notched 27 factors, three steals, and made six 3-pointers. See which crew to select right here.

Easy methods to make WNBA picks for Lynx vs. Fever

Wetzel is leaning Beneath on the purpose complete, and he has locked in two extra Lynx vs. Fever picks — one on the unfold and one Caitlin Clark participant prop guess. You’ll be able to solely see his picks and evaluation at SportsLine.

Who covers in Fever vs. Lynx, and what Caitlin Clark prop do you have to be throughout? Go to SportsLine to see the WNBA finest bets for Lynx vs. Fever, all from an skilled who’s +371.33 models on his girls’s school basketball picks since 2021, and discover out.

How To Watch Minnesota Lynx vs Indiana Fever on July 14: TV Channel, Radio, Game Time, Injury Report, Jerseys

The Lynx (16-7) face the Fever (10-14) for the primary time this season. Minnesota, coming off a 91-63 loss to Seattle. The Fever lately misplaced to Washington by 5 factors. This recreation marks Fever rookie G Caitlin Clark’s skilled debut at Goal Middle, the place she led Iowa to Massive Ten titles the previous two seasons. Lynx All-Star G Kayla McBride scored 27 factors and hit six of 12 three-pointers within the loss to Seattle.

ARRIVE EARLY – DOORS OPEN 1:30PM

What channel is Lynx vs Fever on?

  • TV channel: ESPN
  • Radio: KFAN 100.3 FM | iHeartRadio | Lynx App
  • Reside stream: WNBA app

Lynx vs Fever shall be broadcasted dwell on ESPN with protection starting vs 3:00PM CT.

What time does Lynx vs Fever begin?

  • Date: Tuesday, July ninth
  • Time: 3:00 PM CT

Lynx vs Fever will begin at 3:00PM CT on Tuesday, July ninth at Crypto.com Area.

Present Standing Report

On the time of writing, right here’s the damage report for the Lynx:

Lynx

  • Napheesa Collier – Questionable (Left Foot)
  • Olivia Époupa – OUT (Proper Thigh)

Fever

  • Temi Fagbenle – OUT (Proper Thumb)

What jerseys will the Lynx be carrying?

In opposition to the Fever, the Lynx shall be carrying their Insurgent Version uniform.

 

 

2024 MLB Draft Day 1 complete coverage

The 2024 MLB Draft is right here. Day 1 contains the primary 74 alternatives, overlaying Rounds 1 and a couple of, Aggressive Steadiness Rounds A and B, two Prospect Promotion Incentive picks, plus two compensation picks. The Guardians bought issues going with the No. 1 general choose.

Day 1 of the Draft is airing reside proper now on MLB Community and MLB.com. Days 2 (Rounds 3-10) and three (Rounds 11-20) start at 2 p.m. ET on Monday and Tuesday and can stream reside completely on MLB.com.

Comply with alongside right here all night time for a rundown of each choose with evaluation by MLB Pipeline and MLB Community consultants.

1) Guardians: Travis Bazzana, 2B, Oregon State
The Guardians stored issues very near the vest till the final minute, taking a look at a variety of faculty gamers, particularly the highest hitters. Bazzana was at all times excessive on that listing, and for good motive. The left-handed-hitting Australian infielder was a Golden Spikes Award finalist after he hit .407/.568/.911 with 28 homers and 16 steals in his junior yr with the Beavers. His penchant for contact matches the Guardians’ hitting philosophy and he has loads of thump that ought to get to Cleveland rapidly.

2) Reds: Chase Burns, RHP, Wake Forest
The Reds have been taking a look at many choices and it might have come all the way down to Charlie Condon vs. Chase Burns. In the long run, they went for among the best arms in your complete class, giving them their second straight Wake Forest pitcher taken within the first spherical (Rhett Lowder in 2023). Burns transferred to Wake Forest and its pitching lab and it had an incredible impact as he took a step ahead with all of his stuff. He has a fastball that touches 100 mph, but it surely’s his simply plus slider that misses a ridiculous quantity of bats.

3) Rockies: Charlie Condon, OF, Georgia
Many thought Condon was the perfect participant within the Draft and he actually put up the numbers to again up that declare. The Golden Spikes Award winner led all Division I hitters along with his .433 common and 37 homers (to not point out his 1.009 SLG). It’s onerous to not get enthusiastic about how his 70-grade energy will play at Coors Area, even when it takes just a little to determine what place he may settle into (I assume an outfield nook).

4) A’s: Nick Kurtz, 1B, Wake Forest
A sluggish begin due to a shoulder harm might have damage his inventory ever so barely, however he was far too proficient to slide too far. He bought scorching because the season wore on, ending with 22 homers and main Division I hitters with 78 walks. He has nicely above-average pop to all fields and is a whole hitter, and whereas he’s restricted to first base, he’s a plus defender there.

5) White Sox: Hagen Smith, LHP, Arkansas
We at MLB Pipeline had him because the top-ranked pitcher within the class. Smith was a Golden Spikes Award finalist, main all Division I pitchers in batting common in opposition to (.144) and setting a report for Ok/9 (17.3) price. The southpaw sits at 93-97 mph and touches 100 along with his fastball and has a dirty slider that’s just about unhittable. Add in a splitter and a few deception in his supply and he has frontline starter potential.

6) Royals: Jac Caglianone, 1B/LHP, Florida
An amazing participant who has a 70-grade fastball from the left facet on the bump and large energy on the plate, Caglianone was introduced as a two-way participant when his identify was referred to as, and the Royals plan to provide him a shot to do each. If I needed to guess, his future might be punishing pitches, not delivering them (if he would not stick as a two-way participant). His lack of swing-and-miss given his energy is spectacular.

7) Cardinals: JJ Wetherholt, SS, West Virginia
The West Virginia standout missed a piece of the season due to a hamstring harm, however an argument may be made that he’s one of many prime pure hitters within the class. The left-handed hitter can drive the ball to all fields and is a plus runner with a really superior strategy on the plate. Some scouts felt there wasn’t a lot separating him from Travis Bazzana, with much less energy and extra velocity than his counterpart.

8) Angels: Christian Moore, 2B, Tennessee
Moore’s inventory stored climbing the longer Tennessee’s championship season went on. The second baseman completed because the Volunteers’ all-time (61) and single-season (34) residence run chief. His improved contact led to much more energy, which ought to translate nicely and offers the Angels their third straight faculty hitter who may get to Los Angeles rapidly after Zach Neto (2022 Draft) and Nolan Schanuel (2023).

9) Pirates: Konnor Griffin, SS, Jackson Prep (Miss.)
There was loads of speak concerning the Pirates going after a better flooring faculty bat, however as a substitute they went all in with Griffin’s upside. He most likely has the very best ceiling within the Draft, with 4 instruments that price at the least plus. He has the prospect to play shortstop with an simply plus arm, although he may look simply nearly as good in heart discipline.

10) Nationals: Seaver King, SS, Wake Forest
This provides Wake Forest its third participant within the prime 10. King confirmed his instruments may translate from Division II to the ACC this yr after transferring from Wingate, utilizing his compact right-handed swing to make a ton of contact, and he may be extra hit over energy. He can actually run and play a number of positions, with an opportunity to remain within the infield, however the outfield maybe is a greater match.

11) Tigers: Bryce Rainer, SS, Harvard-Westlake HS (Calif.)
Take one have a look at the 6-foot-3 left-handed-hitting shortstop and it’s unimaginable to not make the Corey Seager comps. A two-way man in highschool who’s up into the mid-90s off the mound, Rainer took an enormous step ahead in his athleticism and energy to cement him as an actual shortstop, giving Harvard-Westlake one other first-rounder within the Draft, becoming a member of massive leaguers Pete Crow-Armstrong, Lucas Giolito, Max Fried and Jack Flaherty.

12) Pink Sox: Braden Montgomery, OF, Texas A&M
After his identify was floating all around the prime 10, it is a fairly gentle touchdown spot for Montgomery, whose large season at Texas A&M ended prematurely due to a damaged ankle suffered within the Tremendous Regionals. The switch from Stanford served him nicely, and he’s a switch-hitter with loads of energy, doing extra injury from the left facet.

13) Giants: James Tibbs III, OF, Florida State
Tibbs was a strong faculty performer over his first two seasons however catapulted himself into conversations in the midst of the primary spherical — and a bit greater — with the yr he had for the Seminoles, posting a 1.264 OPS. His improved strategy helped him get to extra energy (28 homers) and will match the profile for a nook outfielder.

14) Cubs: Cam Smith, 3B, Florida State
It’s a run on Seminoles! Smith shook off a tough freshman season to rake within the Cape Cod League and stored it entering into his sophomore-eligible yr. He reduce down his swing and miss and chase significantly this spring, giving him the prospect to hit for common and energy on the subsequent stage, whereas having the prospect to be a strong third baseman.

15) Mariners: Jurrangelo Cijntje, SHP, Mississippi State
The switch-pitching may sound like a novelty act, however Cijntje has official means from either side. His stuff is extra electrical as a right-hander, and there’s an opportunity he may concentrate on that full-time as a Marcus Stroman sort. This snaps a streak of three straight highschool hitters taken within the first spherical by the Mariners.

16) Marlins: PJ Morlando, OF, Summerville HS (S.C.)
Whereas this may seem to be the primary massive attain within the first spherical, Morlando was ranked as a mid-first spherical expertise final offseason. He struggled by a senior season the place he not often noticed a strike to hit and hasn’t at all times gotten to his energy in video games, although the plus uncooked pop is clear in batting follow. Miami will love his 1,000-watt character, too.

17) Brewers: Braylon Payne, OF, Lawrence E. Elkins HS (Texas)
That’s two barely stunning highschool bats in a row. Payne is among the quickest gamers within the Draft and isn’t afraid to apply it to the basepaths or whereas enjoying an excellent heart discipline. He’s not a one-tool man, both, with the potential to have some extra-base thump. It’s the fifth straight yr the Brewers have taken a hitter with their first choose, however the first of that group to return out of highschool.

18) Rays: Theo Gillen, OF, Westlake HS (Texas)
There was some late buzz that Gillen may go as excessive as 11 to the Tigers, however that didn’t materialize. He’s one of many higher pure highschool hitters within the class and he has the prospect to hit for strong energy in due time. An infielder in highschool, it’s fascinating the Rays introduced him as an outfielder, and his athleticism may play very nicely in heart.

19) Mets: Carson Benge, OF, Oklahoma State
Benge was a official two-way man who largely pitched in reduction with a fastball as much as 96 mph at Oklahoma State. However his contact abilities and exit velocities made it clear he was heading towards a profession within the outfield. He may get a shot at enjoying heart, however may settle in as an athletic proper fielder with above-average hit and energy instruments.

20) Blue Jays: Trey Yesavage, RHP, East Carolina
After Chase Burns and Hagen Smith, who have been each taken within the prime 10, Yesavage was the consensus subsequent finest faculty arm and it would shock some he lasted to twenty. He has the prospect to have three plus pitches in his fastball, slider and splitter, and he has a strong spike curve in addition. There’s some effort in his supply, however he throws strikes. It’s the third pitcher Toronto has taken with its first choose within the final 4 years.

21) Twins: Kaelen Culpepper, SS, Kansas State
Culpepper moved from third to shortstop at Kansas State this yr and dealt with that transfer nicely. He’s extra hit over energy proper now, however there may very well be extra pop to return, and he already makes use of all fields nicely with glorious bat velocity. He may very well be given each alternative to stay at brief and has the potential to be a Gold Glover at third.

22) Orioles: Vance Honeycutt, OF, North Carolina
The Orioles aren’t afraid of fellows who’ve some swing and miss of their sport (Jud Fabian, a 2022 Draft choose), and so they bought one of many toolsiest performers consequently. He had two 20-20 seasons at North Carolina and is a possible Gold Glove heart fielder, however he should work on a strikeout price that crept as much as 27.5 % in 2024.

23) Dodgers: Kellon Lindsey, SS, Hardee HS (Fla.)
Due to an harm over the summer time, the previous two-sport standout — he was his highschool’s QB — wasn’t seen on the showcase circuit, however he jumped up boards along with his efficiency this spring in Florida. He has plus-plus velocity and took massive steps ahead in his swing selections alongside along with his means to play shortstop. It’s the second straight yr the Dodgers have taken a premium prep athlete after taking Kendall George final yr.

24) Braves: Cam Caminiti, LHP, Saguaro HS (Ariz.)
The Braves probably didn’t anticipate Caminiti, the perfect left-hander within the class, to be out there right here. As a result of he reclassified, he’s one of many youngest gamers within the class at 17 years outdated and gives a ton of upside. Caminiti has the prospect to have a legit four-pitch combine and was spinning the ball extra constantly final spring. The Braves have taken a pitcher with their first choose in 5 straight Drafts (two excessive schoolers).

25) Padres: Kash Mayfield, LHP, Elk Metropolis HS (Okla.)
It’s one other Draft and one other excessive schooler chosen within the first spherical by the Padres. This makes eight in a row for San Diego, and the fourth prep arm (three of them lefties). Mayfield is the second highschool lefty in a row right here and has a ton of projection in his 6-foot-4 body with a possible three-pitch combine led by his fastball and changeup.

26) Yankees: Ben Hess, RHP, Alabama
There was increasingly more buzz that the Yankees needed an arm right here, and when the highest faculty ones already introduced have been off the board, they opted to not go together with a highschool arm. Hess offers off Lance Lynn vibes along with his massive 6-foot-5 body and will develop right into a strong No. 2 or 3 starter with 4 pitches, led by a plus fastball and slider, if he can throw extra strikes.

27) Phillies: Dante Nori, OF, Northville HS (Mich.)
There was speak that the Phillies have been leaning faculty hitter after going highschool 4 years in a row (two bats, two arms), however they opted for Nori and his appreciable instruments. Not deterred by him being an older excessive schooler (19 years outdated), the Phillies are getting a no-doubt heart fielder with simply plus velocity and an impressive strategy from the left facet of the plate.

28) Astros: Walker Janek, C, Sam Houston
There have been three faculty backstops usually regarded as in first-round conversations and plenty of felt Janek was the perfect all-round catcher of the bunch. He’s agile behind the plate and has plus arm power whereas exhibiting off spectacular bat velocity and power from the proper facet of the plate.

29) D-backs: Slade Caldwell, OF, Valley View HS (Ark.)
Don’t let the dimensions deceive you. Caldwell may solely be 5-foot-9 however he can actually hit, producing a ton of line-drive contact to all fields and sufficient bat velocity to supply extra pop than you may suppose. He’s an aggressive participant who ought to play heart discipline long-term as a professional. That’s 4 straight bats within the first spherical for the D-backs.

30) Rangers: Malcolm Moore, C, Stanford
We’d been projecting a university catcher to the Rangers for fairly a while, and it was a matter of which one can be out there. It turned out it was the left-handed-hitting Moore from Stanford. His floor numbers weren’t excellent this yr, however his underlying metrics have been, and he has the prospect to hit for common and energy. He’s improved behind the dish, too, although his bat is forward.

31) D-backs: Ryan Waldschmidt, OF, Kentucky

32) Orioles: Griff O’Ferrall, SS, Virginia

33) Twins: Kyle DeBarge, SS, College of Louisiana at Lafayette

34) Brewers: Blake Burke, 1B, Tennessee

35) D-backs: JD Dix, SS, Whitefish Bay HS (Wisc.)

36) Guardians: Braylon Doughty, RHP, Chaparral HS (Calif.)

37) Pirates: Levi Sterling, RHP, Notre Dame HS (Calif.)

38) Rockies: Brody Brecht, RHP, Iowa

39) Nationals: Caleb Lomavita, C, UC Berkeley

With second Wimbledon title, Carlos Alcaraz proves he is heir apparent

WIMBLEDON, England — For years, many in males’s tennis questioned who might exchange the Large Three of Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal atop the game as soon as they inevitably retire. Collectively, they’ve collectively dominated on and off the courtroom, with 66 main titles and celebrity personas.

With such massive footwear to fill, it appeared unlikely to suppose anybody can be up for such a problem. Not less than not but.

However on Sunday, simply weeks after profitable the trophy on the French Open, 21-year-old Carlos Alcaraz proved but once more he was the person for the job, as he defeated Djokovic for the second straight yr within the Wimbledon last. And whereas the 2023 last had been a traditional, lasting practically 5 hours as the 2 traded highlight-reel-worthy factors and momentum, the 2024 version was a comparatively simple affair, with Alcaraz asserting his dominance from the very first recreation and by no means letting up. By the tip of the 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (4) match that lasted simply two hours and 27 minutes, Alcaraz had secured the fourth main title of his profession in entrance of an adoring Centre Court docket crowd.

After holding off Djokovic in a last-ditch tiebreak and profitable the match on his fourth championship level, Alcaraz held his arms up in celebration because the followers jumped to their toes. In a stadium which contained precise royalty within the stands, it appeared to be a coronation for Alcaraz as tennis’ subsequent king.

Even Djokovic, the 24-time main champion, who insisted he had no plans to retire anytime quickly, referred to as Alcaraz, “the perfect participant of the event for sure,” in the course of the information convention Sunday.

With the victory, Alcaraz is now the third-youngest man within the Open period to win 4 Grand Slam singles titles, trailing solely Mats Wilander and Bjorn Borg. His 4-0 report strikes him behind solely Federer (7-0) as the perfect report amongst males of their first main finals, and he joins the Large Three in addition to Borg and Rod Laver as the one males to win the French Open and Wimbledon in the identical season.

Amongst energetic male gamers, Alcaraz trails simply Djokovic (24) and Nadal (22) for essentially the most main singles titles, and he’s now forward of Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka (every with three). And Sunday’s triumph appeared to suggest extra than simply one other trophy for Alcaraz to these watching.

“Love Djokovic,” tweeted Nick Kyrgios, the injured former world No. 13 who misplaced to Djokovic within the 2022 Wimbledon last. “However is that this possibly the primary time we are able to say the ‘altering of the guard?!?!'”


THIS WIMBLEDON VICTORY confirmed simply how far Alcaraz has are available in his quick profession and over the previous yr.

Profitable titles was anticipated of the Spanish star as quickly as he arrived on the scene, and solely intensified after his quarterfinal run on the 2021 US Open in his most important draw debut on the event. However how quickly he has carried out it, and the best way he has carried out it, is outstanding.

Alcaraz received his first Grand Slam title on the 2022 US Open, a yr after his spectacular debut, with a 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (1), 6-3 victory over Casper Ruud within the last. He claimed the world No. 1 rating for the primary time.

Many first-time main champions have spoken in regards to the stress that comes with such a title, and it briefly appeared as if Alcaraz may be falling prey to the identical expectations. He needed to withdraw from the 2023 Australian Open as a result of a hamstring damage, then suffered debilitating cramping in a much-hyped semifinal towards Djokovic on the French Open. He later blamed it on nerves.

So when Alcaraz was set to play towards Djokovic within the Wimbledon last simply weeks later, he was broadly thought of the underdog getting into the match. He had received his first grass title at Queen’s Membership throughout his lone lead-in event, however Wimbledon marked simply the fourth event of his profession on the tough floor. And Djokovic was, effectively, Djokovic, a seven-time champion on the occasion and the winner of the final 4 titles. Few thought anybody was able to beating him on the All England Membership, not to mention a 20-year-old with so little expertise on grass.

However even after dropping the primary set 6-1, Alcaraz was not deterred. As a substitute, he refocused and appeared to embrace the second. He discovered his forehand and have become more and more extra aggressive. His confidence appeared to develop with each level, as did the loud adoration from the group. Whereas Djokovic did not disappear, the match was not between a legend and an up-and-coming prodigy. As a substitute it was two equals preventing for a similar Wimbledon crown. Alcaraz received the second-set tiebreak and went on to win the match 1-6, 7-6 (6), 6-1, 3-6, 6-4.

Whereas Jannik Sinner, at the moment the world No. 1 and reigning Australian Open champion, has additionally separated himself from the remainder of the Gen Z pack within the ATP, Alcaraz has stood alone this spring and summer season when the stakes had been highest. On the French Open, Alcaraz defeated a string of high gamers, together with 2021 finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas and Sinner, en path to the ultimate, then got here again towards Alexander Zverev in 5 units within the last.

Whereas he was unable to defend his title at Queen’s Membership, Alcaraz was as spectacular at Wimbledon as he was at Roland Garros. Regardless of dropping the primary set in three of his matches, Alcaraz constantly raised his stage, discovering methods to come back again and win. Within the semifinals towards Daniil Medvedev, he misplaced the primary set in a tiebreak earlier than profitable the subsequent three units. When requested how Alcaraz in comparison with the Large Three after the match, Medvedev mentioned he had by no means confronted Djokovic, Federer or Nadal after they had been underneath 30, however he nonetheless acknowledged simply how good Alcaraz already was.

“Carlos, I do not suppose he has something [like] them,” Medvedev mentioned. “It is a totally different recreation model. I feel the place Carlos is totally different from many gamers: All of us have our preferences, somebody prefers protection, somebody prefers counterattack, somebody prefers to be tremendous aggressive. He can do all of it … In all probability in my profession he is [the] hardest opponent I’ve confronted.”

In opposition to Djokovic, Alcaraz was centered from the beginning. In a 13-minute recreation to open the match, Alcaraz transformed on his fifth break level to take the early lead — and by no means eased up. Even when Djokovic responded within the third set and staved off three championship factors, Alcaraz nonetheless discovered a approach to shut out the match in a tiebreak quickly after.

His victory appeared to place him in a class he hadn’t beforehand been thought of in.

“Carlos Alcaraz’s conquer an important champion like Novak Djokovic is a testomony to his unbelievable expertise, dedication and composure underneath stress,” Laver, a former world No. 1 and four-time Wimbledon champion, tweeted after watching the match from the royal field. “Carlos has cemented his place among the many tennis greats together with his sensible efficiency immediately.”

Rennae Stubbs, former participant and present ESPN analyst, weighed in as effectively. “Wow [Alcaraz] is one particular younger expertise! I by no means thought I’d see a participant as nice as Novak, Rafa & Roger however there isn’t any doubt in my thoughts this child truly would possibly get to twenty as effectively. Simply phenomenal!”

Regardless of at the moment holding the 2 most up-to-date main titles, Alcaraz will stay at No. 3 within the rankings, behind Sinner and Djokovic, however he did not appear involved about that, nor about any of the information or statistics he retains being reminded of. As a substitute Alcaraz, who will subsequent play on the Olympic Video games in singles and in doubles alongside Nadal, mentioned he simply desires to concentrate on the large image.

“Clearly it is a actually nice begin of my profession, however I’ve to maintain going,” Alcaraz mentioned Sunday evening. “I’ve to maintain constructing my path. On the finish of my profession, I need to sit on the identical desk as the large guys. That is my most important objective. That is my dream proper now.

“It does not matter if I already received 4 Grand Slams on the age of 21. If I am not [able to] maintain going, all these tournaments for me, it does not matter. I actually need to maintain going. I’ll attempt to maintain profitable and finish my profession with quite a lot of them.”

Argentina vs. Colombia odds, pick, prediction, live stream: How to watch Copa America final 2024, Lionel Messi

The Copa America remaining is ready as Argentina and Colombia will meet Sunday with the coveted trophy on the road, however it is a cyclical second as effectively. Colombia are unbeaten for a team-record 28 consecutive matches, however the final crew to greatest them was Argentina on February 1, 2022. It has been greater than two years since Los Cafeteros have seen defeat, however Argentina need to win their third consecutive main title to cement their dynasty. After profitable the 2020 Copa America and 2022 World Cup, this title can be a trifecta for Lionel Messi and Lionel Scaloni to enter the World Cup on. 

As these two groups meet, right here are some things that might outline the match:

1. Preserve monitor of set performs

Throughout Copa America, no crew has been higher than Colombia at maximizing their possibilities from useless ball conditions. 4 of James Rodriguez’s six assists have come from set performs, utilizing Davidson Sanchez and Rodrigo Munoz as targets to maximise the advandate Colombia has within the air. Whereas Argentina cannot match the Columbian’s measurement, it is a very bodily crew with a wonderful keeper in Emilano Martinez. Argentina will not be crushed simply in web, however they should maintain monitor of everybody on Colombia throughout set performs. 

When even midfielders like Jefferson Lerma can rise above the protection, there’s a lot variation to how Colombia can arrange. Most groups have one or two chief targets in set piece eventualities, however for Colombia, everybody can damage you. It will be quite a bit to maintain up with, but when anybody can do it, it is Argentina.

2. The battle of the ten’s 

If requested who the most effective quantity 10 was in Copa America, the idea can be that it is Messi, however Rodriguez’s manufacturing has far outpaced Messi’s through the event thus far. Messi missed Argentina’s remaining group stage match with a hamstring harm and solely has one purpose and one help within the event. Whereas nonetheless entering into good positions, Messi has been uncharacteristically lacking alternatives to attain, and this harm could possibly be impacting his play. In the meantime, Rodriguez has turned again the clock with a purpose and a record-breaking six assists through the event.

The favourite for being Copa America participant of the event, Rodriguez has been in a position to drag defenders everywhere in the pitch, giving Luis Diaz the house that he must thrive and maintaining Colombia ticking over. Over the course of Rodriguez’s profession, Carlo Ancelotti has been the most effective supervisor at getting essentially the most out of Rodriguez, however Nestor Lorenzo is exhibiting that he is aware of tips on how to use the enigmatic 10 as effectively. 

3. Keep out of the enforcer’s means

Whereas Messi does have his bodyguard off the pitch, on it, Rodrigo De Paul is the enforcer for Argentina. Attempting to undergo him is usually a foul thought as he blows up assaults that come his means. As soon as he wins the ball, he is additionally in a position to begin the assault by getting it to considered one of Argentina’s gifted creators. How Lorenzo gameplans to get by way of the middle of the pitch is whaat’s going to make or break this recreation.

De Paul will probably be maintaining a detailed eye on Rodriguez and Colombia must advance the ball in different methods. With out Munoz, how they will try this will probably be one thing to observe as Argentina can even be maintaining tabs on Diaz on the wing.

How one can watch and odds

  • Date: Sunday, July 14 | Time: 9:15 p.m. ET (delayed as a result of safety points)
  • Location: Laborious Rock Stadium — Miami Gardens, Florida
  • TV: Fox | Dwell stream: Fubo (Attempt without spending a dime)
  • Odds: Argentina +125; Draw +200; Colombia +260

Prediction

Colombia will come full circle to win Copa America and lengthen their unbeaten run. With yet one more victory, who will find yourself stopping this crew? Choose: Colombia 2, Argentia 1

Argentina vs. Colombia live results, highlights, analysis as Copa América final delayed

Argentina, reigning champions of each the World Cup and the Copa América, and Colombia, unbeaten in 28 matches courting again to 2022, face off Sunday within the last of the 2024 Copa América at Exhausting Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

The match kicked off about 9:15 p.m. ET after followers rushed the gates and induced a delay to the initially scheduled 8 p.m. begin time.

Colombia’s unbeaten streak continued all through their run to the ultimate with Los Cafeteros going 2-1-0 within the group stage earlier than beating Brazil on penalties, crushing Panama 5-0, and eliminating Uruguay with a 1-0 win within the semifinals. The final crew to beat Colombia? Effectively, that might be Argentina, whose 1-0 win over Colombia within the 2022 South American World Cup qualifiers was a part of the explanation they did not make it to Qatar that 12 months.

In the meantime, Argentina’s win helped see them by to the World Cup, which they finally received by way of penalties over France. But it surely was on the 2021 Copa América when, after 28 barren years, Lionel Messi propelled La Albiceleste to the trophy and on its path of world domination.

Now the 2 sides meet in a Copa América last for the primary time within the match’s 108-year historical past. An Argentina win would safe a record-breaking sixteenth Copa América trophy whereas Colombia is on the lookout for simply its second championship.

Comply with our reside weblog beneath for up-to-the-minute updates from the match:

Stay40 updates

  • 7′ Jhon Cordoba simply off course!

  • Whew, Colombia has been fast on its assaults by the primary seven minutes. Argentina has discovered itself on the again foot a number of occasions already.

  • After the chaos of the previous few hours at Miami’s Exhausting Rock Stadium, the Copa America last is ready to begin. Let’s go. This ought to be a improbable sport.

  • New kickoff time: 9:15 p.m. ET

Copa América final start delayed after fans rush gates

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The beginning time for the ultimate of the 2024 Copa América between Argentina and Colombia has been delayed “till additional discover” following a safety breach wherein followers broke via one of many principal entry gates.

Video on social media confirmed followers breaking via the southwest gate at Exhausting Rock Stadium, with some being tackled or in any other case apprehended by police and safety personnel. A safety guard manning an inside entrance to the stadium confirmed to ESPN that the southwest gate on the venue had been locked down because of a breach.

The stadium briefly went on lockdown, earlier than Exhausting Rock Stadium issued the next assertion: “In anticipation of tonight’s Copa America Last, 1000’s of followers with out tickets tried to forcibly enter the stadium, placing different followers, safety and regulation enforcement officers at excessive threat. Safety has shut the gates so as to management the entry course of at a a lot slower price and guarantee everyone seems to be stored protected.

“In consequence, tonight’s match begin time has been delayed till additional discover to accommodate for ticketed followers to have the ability to safely enter the stadium.”

An officer for the Miami-Dade Police Division instructed ESPN that each one gates had been locked down after the preliminary rush of followers, whereas one other officer mentioned it stored altering, describing the scenario as “very fluid.”

Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister’s mom Silvina mentioned she wanted her son’s help to enter the stadium and described the scenario outdoors as “inhumane.” She mentioned the 2 had been in fixed communication as Mac Allister waited in a Exhausting Rock Stadium tunnel to help his household inside.

“Alexis needed to depart the locker room to assist us get in as a result of he was apprehensive. I assumed [the game] could not proceed,” she mentioned in a publish on social media. “I assumed the sport would not be performed as a result of if the gamers thought they’d resolve this, not possible that it could be performed. It was inhumane. We’re okay.

“We had been in communication with Alexis the entire time, however he mentioned he would keep outdoors till we might are available. he waited for us till we got here in. We hugged him as soon as inside, left him to be calm and instructed him to win.”

The Miami-Dade Police issued the next assertion: “Now we have had a number of incidents previous to the gates opening at Exhausting Rock Stadium for the COPA America last recreation. These incidents have been a results of the unruly habits of followers making an attempt to entry the stadium.

“We’re asking everybody to be affected person, and abide by the principles set by our officers and Exhausting Rock Stadium personnel.”

Video and pictures taken by ESPN confirmed followers crowding across the southwest gate ready to be let in. Followers have been congregating at Exhausting Rock Stadium since nicely earlier than the deliberate kickoff at 8 p.m. ET, with one car parking zone attendant saying he had been referred to as to work early on condition that followers began to reach as early as 6 a.m.

A handful of individuals could possibly be seen receiving medical remedy and asking for water within the sweltering South Florida warmth. Officers had been in a position to push the group behind black gates and lock down the doorway in order that nobody may get inside, though loads of followers had already made it to their seats earlier than then.

A sellout crowd of greater than 65,000 was anticipated for the championship match of the South American match, with Argentina seeking to defend its title.

It is not clear which of the followers who gained entrance in the course of the rush had tickets to the match. CONMEBOL, South America’s governing physique, launched a press release a day earlier than warning that followers will need to have tickets to enter the venue.

The Copa América has been stricken by organizational and planning points nearly from the second the match began, with groups complaining about subject situations, subject sizes, the state of coaching fields, in addition to crowd management points.

On the conclusion of Wednesday’s semifinal when Colombia beat Uruguay, Uruguayan gamers Darwin Núñez and Ronald Araújo went into the stands at Financial institution of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, after they thought relations had been at risk from opposition followers.

ESPN author Lizzy Becherano contributed to this story, whereas info from The Related Press was additionally used.