Bellinger’s Ninth-inning Heroics Sends Dodgers to NLCS
The battle of the two best teams in baseball came down to the final pitch. Each team notched a run in the sixth and Cody Bellinger drove in Justin Turner in the top of the ninth inning to put LA up for good over the Giants, 2-1. Dodgers’ ace Max Scherzer made a rare closing performance to cap off the win as Wilmer Flores’ attempted check-swing was called a strike by the first base umpire. The Dodgers will face the Braves in the NLCS in a rematch of last year’s championship series.
Bucs Stop Eagles’ Late-game Surge, Win 28-22
Even a sore hand can’t slow down Tom Brady. The 44-year old QB threw for 297 yards and Leonard Fournette added a combined 127 yards and two TDs to boost the Bucs to victory over the Eagles. The reigning Super Bowl champs improved to 5-1 with the win.
Shildt Out in St. Louis
Mike Shildt is out as the manager of the Cardinals, as the club cited “philosophical differences” on the future of the franchise with its skipper. Shildt had spent nearly 20 years in St. Louis, working his way up the organization and serving as manager since 2018.
Pedri Inks New Contract with Barcelona
The 18-year-old star – who is short-listed for the Ballon d’Or – will remain with the Spanish club through June 2026. The midfielder’s contract includes a $1.16 billion release clause.
RedBird Capital Leads Investment in SpringHill, Gets $725M Valuation
LeBron James’ media company, SpringHill received a major investment led by RedBird Capital Partners at a $725 valuation. Reports indicate that SpringHill sold a “significant minority stake” in the company to the private equity firm, which was also joined by Nike, Epic Games, and Fenway Sports Group. The investment will allow SpringHill to further expand its production.
Super Bowl Halftime Show Seeks New Sponsor as Clock Ticks on Pepsi Deal
The NFL is preparing to take the naming rights for the Super Bowl halftime show to market, as Pepsi’s 10-year deal is set to expire in 2022. The show, which brings in major stars and massive viewing numbers, is estimated to be worth $25-50 million per year.
LiAngelo Ball Heading to the G-League, Expected to Sign with Hornets Affiliate
LiAngelo Ball put on a solid performance at the Las Vegas Summer League, catching the eye of scouts. The Charlotte Hornets signed the youngest Ball brother to a non-guaranteed contract on Thursday. This move sets the stage for the 22-year old guard to sign with the Greensboro Swarm.
