The New York Mets are heading into the 2024 season with a mix of established stars and promising newcomers. Here’s a comprehensive guide to their projected lineup, rotation, and key questions as they look to compete at the highest level.

Projected 2024 Opening Day Roster

The Mets have crafted a strong lineup for the 2024 season, highlighted by key players expected to lead the team both offensively and defensively:

1. Brandon Nimmo (CF) – Nimmo enters the second season of his eight-year deal as the lead-off man, showing an uptick in power despite a slight dip in his average and on-base percentage​​.
2. Starling Marte (RF) – After a challenging year due to health issues, Marte looks to reclaim his All-Star form from 2022​​.
3. Francisco Lindor (SS) – Lindor continues to be one of the top offensive shortstops, coming off a season matching his home run tally from the previous year​​.
4. Pete Alonso (1B) – Alonso, known for his power-hitting, is entering what could be his last year with the Mets under his current contract​​.
5. Teoscar Hernandez (DH) – Hernandez is eyed to bring depth and power to the lineup, following an average of 24 home runs since 2018​​.
6. Jeff McNeil (2B) – After a drop in his batting average and OPS, McNeil looks to rebound back to his batting title-winning form​​.
7. Francisco Alvarez (C) – Alvarez, despite some inconsistencies, showed promise with 25 home runs and excellent framing skills​​.
8. Cody Bellinger (LF) – Considered a significant offseason acquisition, Bellinger is expected to bring a left-handed power bat to the lineup​​.
9. Brett Baty (3B), Starling Marte (RF), and Mark Vientos (DH) – These players are expected to play vital roles in the lineup, with Marte and Vientos potentially being platooned​​.

Starting Rotation

The Mets’ starting rotation is poised to be a mix of established names and emerging talents looking to anchor the team’s pitching staff:

1. Kodai Senga (RHP) – Senga is set to lead the rotation following an impressive debut season that saw him finish second in the NL Rookie of the Year voting​​.
2. Jose Quintana (LHP) – Despite starting his Mets career late due to surgery, Quintana showed effectiveness in his starts​​.
3. Luis Severino (RHP) – Severino, looking to rebound from a tough year, signed a one-year deal with the Mets​​.
4. Sean Manaea (LHP) – The left-hander, known for his solid pitching, is another key addition to the Mets’ rotation​​.

Three Key Questions

1. Can the Mets’ Pitchers Step Up? – After making big changes and smart player picks, whether the new pitchers and the team’s bullpen do well is super important for the Mets in 2024.
2. Will Pete Alonso Remain a Met Beyond 2024? – Alonso’s future with the Mets is uncertain as he enters the final year of his contract, with discussions on an extension still ongoing​​​​.
3. Can the Mets’ Youth Infusion Make an Immediate Impact? – With the inclusion of players like Cody Bellinger and prospects waiting in the wings, the Mets are looking to blend experience with youth for a successful 2024 campaign​​.

The Mets’ 2024 season looks set to be an exciting blend of well-known players and new talent. By bringing in new players and having key members come back, they hope to fix the problems from last year and go for a big win in the NL East. The team’s success will depend a lot on how well their batters and pitchers do, as well as how they deal with the uncertainties of some of their main players.

Chael Sonnen, a retired UFC legend, has openly accused Mike Tyson of faking his training video.

The Accusation

Sonnen, a figure known for his forthrightness, has taken to social media to voice his concerns over Tyson’s training videos. He suggests that Tyson, the former heavyweight boxing champion, may not be as fully committed to his return to boxing as the videos suggest.

Sonnen hinted that the training footage, which is Tyson’s first since the announcement of the fight, may not be a genuine depiction of his preparation efforts. He criticized the brevity of Tyson’s pad work and sarcastically advised Tyson to “splash water on your face and T-shirt” to make it appear more like a real training session.

In the future, if you’re ever going to spend five seconds hitting mitts, as a way of making the audience believe you’re doing a training session, make sure you splash water on your face and T-shirt first. https://t.co/5MZ11RjshH

— Chael Sonnen (@ChaelSonnen) March 14, 2024

The Fight and Its Controversies

The fight, set for July 20 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, pits Tyson against Paul, with a significant age gap of 31 years between the two. Tyson, nearing 58, faces concerns over the health risks associated with stepping back into the ring, especially without protective headgear.

Medical professionals have voiced apprehensions, citing the increased vulnerability of the brain to injury in older individuals. Despite these warnings, both Tyson and Paul have dismissed the idea of wearing headgear, aiming for a fully-sanctioned professional bout.

Public and Professional Reactions

The public reaction has been mixed, with some excited about the spectacle and others questioning the wisdom of the match-up, given the dramatic age difference and potential health risks for Tyson. Professionals within the sport, including Sonnen, have drawn parallels to previous matches where age and experience disparities led to swift conclusions, questioning the competitive integrity of the Tyson-Paul fight.

Sonnen isn’t just worried about the health risks of the fight; he’s also looking at how fair and entertaining the match will be. He’s raising bigger issues about whether it’s right or safe to have an experienced fighter take on someone much younger in a sport that’s really tough and can be dangerous.

As we get closer to one of the biggest fights of the year, the doubts about Tyson’s training make the story even more interesting. Tyson’s team hasn’t directly answered Sonnen’s claims, but this whole discussion shows how complex and tricky it can be to balance the fun, the competition, and the safety in fighting sports today.

Baseball fans are passionate about the game and show their love by collecting memorabilia linked to iconic moments and players. These items often sell for high prices, reflecting their rarity and historical significance. Here’s a rundown of the most expensive MLB memorabilia ever sold, showcasing the blend of sports history and the collectors’ world.

Jackie Robinson’s Debut Ticket Stub (1947) – $480K

Jackie Robinson’s MLB Debut edges out Michael Jordan’s NBA Debut at @Heritage_Sport to become the most expensive ticket ever sold.

Robinson: $480,000
Jordan: $468,000

Previous record was $270,600 for a Jordan debut stub. The record pre fall 2021 was $116k.

Tickets ?? pic.twitter.com/xIRVNFatSf

— Dylan Dittrich (@DylanDittrich) February 27, 2022

The ticket stub from Jackie Robinson’s historic MLB debut in 1947 sold for a whopping $480K. This game marked the first time an African American played in the MLB, breaking color barriers and changing the sport forever. Only seven tickets from this game exist today, making it a rare and valuable piece of baseball history.

Hank Aaron’s 755th Home Run Baseball (1976) – $650K

Here it is! First item from our Records Serie ?

Hank Aaron‘s 755th home run ball was sold for incredible price – $650,000! ? His hit was an absolute bomb ?.#SMC #Investments #Finance #Sport #MLB #Baseball #Hank #Aaron pic.twitter.com/r8Ic8ZMJzI

— Sports Memorabilia Consulting (@smemconsulting) December 21, 2017

Hank Aaron’s 755th home run ball, a symbol of his incredible career and record-setting achievement, sold for $650K. This baseball signifies Aaron’s last home run, marking the end of a legendary stint in the MLB.

Barry Bonds’ 756th Home Run Baseball (2007) – $752K

Surpassing Hank Aaron’s record, Barry Bonds’ 756th home run baseball fetched $752K by a fan. The ball represents a controversial but historic moment, as Bonds recorded the most home runs in league history.

Babe Ruth’s All-Star Game Ball (1933) – $805K

A baseball hit by Babe Ruth for the first home run in an All-Star game history sold for $805K. This piece is tied to one of baseball’s greatest players and a significant moment in All-Star game history.

Mark McGwire’s 70th Home Run Ball (1998) – $3 Million

Mark McGwire became a national hero when he hit his 70th home run in 1998. A fan caught the ball, and it was later bought by comic book artist Todd McFarlane for $3 million, setting a record for sports memorabilia at the time​​.

Laws of Baseball – $3.2 Million

The “Laws of Baseball” documents, which helped shape the modern game, fetched $3.2 million at auction by Daniel Lucius “Doc” Adams. These historical documents testify to the game’s early development and enduring appeal.

Babe Ruth’s 1920 Yankees Jersey – $4.42 Million

⚾️ Regarded as ‘the most desirable baseball artifact’ in history, Babe Ruth’s 1920 jersey sold for an astonishing $4.415m.

It is believed to be the oldest @Yankees jersey to ever adorn the baseballing great.https://t.co/cMLnXRTQ37 pic.twitter.com/KwwtVYDbxf

— The Sportsman (@TheSportsman) June 15, 2020

A 1920 Yankees jersey worn by Babe Ruth sold for $4.42 million, making it one of the most coveted pieces of MLB memorabilia. This jersey symbolizes the beginning of Ruth’s illustrious career with the Yankees.

Babe Ruth’s 1928-1930 Jersey – $5.64 Million

Another Babe Ruth jersey from the 1928-1930 seasons set the record by selling for $5.64 million. This period includes some of Ruth’s best years, further elevating the jersey’s value.

Honus Wagner T-206 Card – $7.25 Million

The T-206 Honus Wagner card, one of the rarest in sports card collecting, was sold for $7.25 million. Its scarcity and Wagner’s status as a baseball legend make it the “holy grail” of sports cards.

Mickey Mantle’s 1952 Topps Card – $12.6 Million

This week started off with a bang, as we approach Labor Day weekend. The “Finest Known Example” of a Mickey Mantle 1952 Topps card, graded by SGC, sold through Heritage Auctions for a record $12.6 million! Explore Mantle’s cards over the years: https://t.co/PxbEanPveW#TheHobby pic.twitter.com/I8hfPLm0FQ

— GTS Distribution S&E (@GTSDistribution) August 31, 2022

Topping the list, the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card sold for an astonishing $12.6 million. Its rarity and connection to Mantle, one of baseball’s most beloved figures, have made it the most expensive piece of MLB memorabilia ever sold.

Ultimately, these sales highlight the rich history of baseball and the deep connection fans and collectors have to the sport. Each item tells a story, preserving a moment in time that resonates with fans across generations.

DeMar DeRozan scores 46 points, passing three Hall of Famers on the NBA‘s all-time scoring list in a single game, leading the Bulls to a victory over the Pacers.

DeRozan’s Unforgettable Night Leads Bulls to Victory

DeMar DeRozan pushed the Chicago Bulls to a hard-earned win over the Indiana Pacers with an impressive 46 points, including a game-changing 3-pointer in overtime, finishing with a score of 132-129 for the Bulls. The game on Wednesday night was not just about DeRozan’s standout play but also highlighted the intense competition of professional basketball as the season moves into its critical final stages.

A Nail-Biting Finish

? Season-high 46 points
? Overtime victory

DeMar DeRozan delivers a Nightly Notable performance ? pic.twitter.com/4OoMEfTHzb

— TNT Sports (@tntsports) March 14, 2024

The end of the fourth quarter was full of suspense, with Myles Turner of the Pacers sinking consecutive 3-pointers to take a 3-point lead. However, DeRozan’s composure under pressure, marked by a critical free throw and a fadeaway jumper with just 0.3 seconds on the clock, sent the game into overtime, showcasing his reputation as an “incredible closer,” according to Bulls coach Billy Donovan.

DeRozan’s Overtime Heroics

DeRozan scored the Bulls’ first eight points in a tense overtime, putting the game out of the Pacers’ reach. Despite Pascal Siakam’s aggressive defense and the team’s strategy to double-team DeRozan, his early scoring in overtime was too much for the Pacers to catch up with.

Key Performances

Other significant contributions came from the Bulls’ Alex Caruso with 23 points and Ayo Dosunmu with 20 points. Myles Turner led with 27 points and five 3-pointers on the Pacers’ side, while Pascal Siakam added 17 points and nine rebounds. Haliburton also impressed with 17 points and 14 assists.

What This Means for Both Teams

This victory is more than just another win for the Bulls; it demonstrates their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, qualities essential for playoff success. For the Pacers, despite the loss, their competitive spirit and ability to push a formidable opponent to the limit are clear indicators of their potential. As the regular season nears its end, both teams will look to build on this experience, aiming for a strong finish and a favorable position heading into the playoffs.

Colby Covington responds to Ian Machado Garry’s UFC callout with three unique conditions. Discover the intense buildup to a potential explosive welterweight showdown.

Colby Covington Sets Conditions for Ian Machado Garry Fight

Colby Covington, a three-time UFC welterweight title challenger, has finally responded to Ian Machado Garry’s challenge, setting the stage for a potentially epic confrontation. The exchange between the two fighters has caught the attention of fans, bringing a new level of excitement to the welterweight division.

Justice will be served @ColbyCovMMA pic.twitter.com/BtC8FSUuGA

— “The Future” Ian Machado Garry (@iangarryMMA) February 28, 2024

Machado Garry’s Undefeated Streak and Challenge

The former Cage Warriors champion Ian Machado Garry has been on a remarkable winning streak, boasting a 14-0 record overall and a 7-0 in the UFC. Following his split decision victory over Geoff Neal at UFC 298 in Anaheim, California, Garry didn’t hold back in his post-fight press conference, directly calling out Covington. The 26-year-old Dubliner made it clear that he sees Covington as a stepping stone to higher ranks, stating,

“He’s going to do what he’s fcking told, and he’s going to fight a young upcoming prospect, so I can fcking take him out of the division, wipe him off the top 15.”

Covington’s Calculated Response

After being quiet for a while, Covington shared his thoughts in a video on social media. Famous for his bold and sometimes controversial behavior, Covington spoke to Garry with both disrespect and recognition of the challenge.

“Ian Garry, you translucent cuck, you wanted my attention, now you got it,” Covington declared.

Get on your knees and beg @iangarryMMA @Laylaloves @ufc pic.twitter.com/1w3CzAriB0

— Colby Covington (@ColbyCovMMA) March 13, 2024

He then talked about how fighting him is desirable because it makes his opponents more famous. But, Covington also wondered what he would gain from fighting someone ranked lower than him, like Garry.

Conditions for the Fight

Covington proposed three stipulations for the fight to proceed, teasingly suggesting Garry should “get on his knees and beg.” While the video specifies conditions involving turning on social media comments and two others related to Garry’s wife, Layla, detailed terms were not disclosed in the shared content.

Social Media Taunts and Public Interest

The back-and-forth between the two fighters has grabbed the attention of MMA fans all over, with both using social media to share their thoughts. Covington’s reaction showed off his popularity in the sport and hinted that a fight with him could give Garry a lot of attention. The comments made earlier by Garry and Covington’s response have prepared the ground for a much-awaited fight if Garry accepts Covington’s conditions.

Despite the interest from both fighters and the MMA community, the exact details of Covington’s conditions haven’t been fully shared. As everyone looks forward to what comes next, the possible fight between Covington and Garry is shaping up to be a major topic of conversation in the UFC welterweight division.

Explore how OG Anunoby‘s return to the New York Knicks has fortified their defense, improved their win rate, and transformed the team into a defensive powerhouse, with insights from his performance and teammate reactions.

OG Anunoby’s Comeback to the NY Knicks

The Knicks had a hard time when OG Anunoby and some other important players got injured. Anunoby had to sit out for over a month because he injured his right elbow and needed surgery. This was bad news for the team, and they started losing a lot, making it tough to get a good spot for the playoffs.

But when Anunoby came back to play, things started looking up. He’s good at playing in different court spots, whether out on the wing or closer to the basket as a stretch four. What’s really cool is how he can defend almost anyone because of his super long arms—he’s got a 7-foot-2 wingspan! This makes him a tough player to go up against for anyone trying to score.

The Knicks’ Renewed Defensive Dominance

Previously, the team was struggling, with a record of 7-9 in the absence of Anunoby, during which their defensive efficiency ranked 18th in the league, allowing 115.7 points per 100 possessions. With Anunoby back in action, the Knicks have given up just 98.9 points per 100 possessions in the 500 minutes he has played, a figure that would rank first in the NBA if sustained over a longer period​.

Offensive Contribution to The Knicks

Anunoby is not just a defensive powerhouse; he also significantly contributes to the offense. His style of play complements the team well. He does not dominate the ball, excelling as a cutter and finisher at the rim, and boasts a 47.5% success rate on corner three-pointers. His return boosts the Knicks’ defense and smoothens their offense, making the team more versatile and formidable​.

Team Transformation

The Knicks’ transformation with Anunoby is evident. Before his debut, they had a 4-6 record with a 122.1 defensive rating, ranking 23rd in the NBA. Post-Anunoby, the record improved to 9-2, with the defense climbing to the league’s second rank. Anunoby’s exceptional performance has not only been recognized by statistics but also by his teammates, who are in awe of his capabilities. Jalen Brunson, a fellow Knick, expressed his amazement at Anunoby’s skills, highlighting his immediate and significant impact on the team​​.

In summary, OG Anunoby’s return to the Knicks has been transformational. His defensive skills have propelled the team to new heights, making them a force to be reckoned with in the NBA. With Anunoby back on the court, the Knicks regained a key player. They reignited their hope for a successful season, showcasing the undeniable value of Anunoby to the team’s overall dynamics.

The New England Patriots are considering trading quarterback Mac Jones, sparking numerous discussions and rumors about his future with the team.

Mac Jones’ Turbulent Journey with the Patriots

Mac Jones’ time with the Patriots has been a roller coaster. After being picked 15th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, Jones had a promising start, leading the Patriots to the playoffs in his rookie year with 3,801 passing yards and 22 touchdowns.

However, his performance dipped significantly in the following seasons. In 2023, Jones managed 2,120 passing yards with a 10-12 TD-INT ratio and a quarterback rating 77.0. This marked a significant regression from his rookie season, prompting discussions about his future with the team​​​​​.

Coaching Changes and Their Impact

The departure of Josh McDaniels and the introduction of new coaching staff, including head coach Jerod Mayo and offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt, have brought about significant changes within the team. These changes and Mac Jones’ declining performance have led to speculation about his place in the team’s plans​​​.

Trade Rumors and Potential Outcomes

The Patriots are reportedly “open” to trading Jones and have been fielding calls from interested teams. This comes after Jones was benched multiple times during the 2023 season in favor of Bailey Zappe. Despite the setbacks, Jones still has a chance to remain with the Patriots, especially with the team’s coaching overhaul. However, the Patriots are ready to move him ​if the right deal comes along​​​​.

Ideal Landing Spots

Speculations about potential landing spots for Jones have emerged. Teams like the Atlanta Falcons, Las Vegas Raiders, and Denver Broncos have been mentioned as possible new homes for Jones. Each team presents an opportunity for Jones to restart his career in a new environment, possibly rejuvenating his performance with different coaching styles and offensive systems​.

What’s Next for Mac Jones?

As the NFL Draft approaches, the Patriots’ decision on whether to trade Jones remains a significant storyline. With the team holding the No. 3 overall pick, the possibility of selecting a new quarterback adds another layer of intrigue to Jones’ situation. The outcome will likely depend on the offers the Patriots receive and their evaluation of potential quarterback prospects in the draft​.

In summary, Mac Jones’ future with the New England Patriots is uncertain, influenced by his performance downturn, coaching changes, and the dynamics of the NFL’s quarterback market. Whether Jones stays or goes, this offseason is pivotal for both him and the Patriots as they navigate the challenges of building a competitive team for the 2024 season and beyond.

As Zach Wilson looks for a fresh start away from the New York Jets, several teams emerge as potential landing spots for the young quarterback. Here’s a detailed look at where Wilson could find his next opportunity to shine or learn based on team needs, offensive setups, and Wilson’s own skill set.

Heading to New Territory

• Atlanta Falcons: Atlanta’s powerful running game, featuring stars like Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgier, could benefit from Wilson’s play-action experience. Despite his rocky tenure with the Jets, Wilson’s ability to play in a run-oriented offense makes him an interesting option for the Falcons, especially if they can’t secure a top draft pick or high-profile QB via trade​​.
• Denver Broncos: The Broncos are at a crossroads with their QB position, having benched Russell Wilson. They could provide Zach Wilson a chance to compete for the starting role in a new environment, offering a reset for both the player and the team​​.
• Las Vegas Raiders: Amidst coaching changes and uncertain quarterback futures, the Raiders could see Wilson as a potential fit. His proximity to his hometown and the chance to restart his career in Vegas make this an intriguing possibility​​.
• New England Patriots: With Mac Jones not living up to expectations and a possible change in coaching on the horizon, the Patriots may look to Wilson as a competitor for the starting job or a solid backup option​​.
• San Francisco 49ers: Having shown interest in Wilson during his draft year, the 49ers could consider bringing him on board, especially with the potential departure of their current backup QB, Sam Darnold. Wilson’s style might mesh well with the 49ers’ dynamic offense​​.

• Kansas City Chiefs: If there’s a place to learn, it’s under the tutelage of Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid. Wilson could develop his game behind one of the best quarterbacks in the league​​.
• Los Angeles Rams: With Matthew Stafford’s career in its twilight years, Wilson could be seen as an insurance policy or a project for Sean McVay to develop for the future​​​​.

• Detroit Lions: Wilson could secure a backup role behind Jared Goff, with the Lions offering a solid structure for his development​​.
• Green Bay Packers: Post-Aaron Rodgers, the Packers might view Wilson as a valuable addition to their QB room, giving him a chance to reset his career in a storied franchise​​.
• Jacksonville Jaguars: Serving as a backup to Trevor Lawrence, Wilson could find a new beginning in Jacksonville, competing for the number two spot​​.

In summary, Zach Wilson’s journey in the NFL has been turbulent, but the potential for a fresh start exists. With various teams in need of quarterback help, either as starters or backups, Wilson has options to consider. The ideal destination will offer a combination of opportunity, support, and a chance to reset or develop further as an NFL quarterback.