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Deadspin | Crash involving baseball team bus in Iowa leaves 1 dead

Deadspin | Crash involving baseball team bus in Iowa leaves 1 dead

Sports news

Apr 18, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; General view of a baseball in a glove during batting practice prior to the game between the Athletics and Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

One person died and 32 other occupants were injured when a bus carrying an Iowa community college baseball team overturned, authorities said.

The Iowa State Patrol said a bus from Iowa Lakes Community College crashed into a highway ditch in the single-car incident early Wednesday near Twin Lakes, about 110 miles northwest of Des Moines. The cause remains under investigation.

Three people were airlifted to trauma hospitals and others were taken by ambulances to four area medical centers, Calhoun County emergency services directors Bruce Musgrave said, per ESPN.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the student-athletes, coaches, staff, families, and the entire Iowa Lakes community during this incredibly difficult time,” the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference said in a statement.

A scheduled four-game series starting Thursday between Iowa Lakes and North Arkansas College has been canceled.

–Field Level Media

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World Athletics president Sebastian Coe told AFP that the International Olympic Committee’s decision in March to introduce testing for gender to determine eligibility to compete in the female category, preventing transgender women from competing, is a “very important development for the Olympic movement”.

The screening will mean Olympic women’s sports from the 2028 Los Angeles Games will be limited to biological females, which would also rule out those with differences in sexual development (DSD).

WA had already announced last July it was introducing the SRY gene test.

“You know, I didn’t come into World Athletics for a popularity contest, I came in to do what I think is the right thing,” said Coe ahead of the World Athletics Relays being hosted in Gaborone, Botswana.

“I’m delighted that the world is beginning to see it the way we did, but I think it’s a very important development for the Olympic movement, and I celebrate that,” he added.

The announcement by the IOC of the reintroduction of the testing for the SRY gene did not meet with universal approval, with French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari saying it was “a step backwards”.

ALSO READ | Olympic bronze medallist Alysha Newman suspended for missing doping tests

Andrew Sinclair, the scientist who discovered the gene, had said even ahead of the decision, the idea that biological sex is entirely defined by chromosomes is “overly simplistic”.

IOC president Kirsty Coventry, who succeeded Thomas Bach last year, had made resolving the thorny issue a priority after the 2024 Paris Games were rocked by a gender row involving women boxers Imane Khelif of Algeria and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting.

Khelif and Lin were excluded from the International Boxing Association’s 2023 world championships after the IBA said they had failed eligibility tests.

However, the IOC allowed them both to compete at the Paris Games, saying they had been victims of “a sudden and arbitrary decision by the IBA”.

Both boxers went on to win gold medals. Coe praised Coventry for taking the bull by the horns and coming up with a blanket policy to cover all Olympic sports.

“I’m delighted that the new president, Kirsty, has really, in her first few months as president, gone out of her way to protect the female category,” said the 69-year-old Englishman.

“If you don’t, then you don’t have women’s sport, and Kirsty, of all people, is going to protect women’s sport, so we are 100 per cent behind that position at World Athletics, it’s a position we took many years ago,” he added.

Published on May 01, 2026

#World #Athletics #president #Sebastian #Coe #hails #IOC #gender #testing #decision">World Athletics president Sebastian Coe hails IOC gender testing decision World Athletics president Sebastian Coe told AFP that the International Olympic Committee’s decision in March to introduce testing for gender to determine eligibility to compete in the female category, preventing transgender women from competing, is a “very important development for the Olympic movement”.The screening will mean Olympic women’s sports from the 2028 Los Angeles Games will be limited to biological females, which would also rule out those with differences in sexual development (DSD).WA had already announced last July it was introducing the SRY gene test.“You know, I didn’t come into World Athletics for a popularity contest, I came in to do what I think is the right thing,” said Coe ahead of the World Athletics Relays being hosted in Gaborone, Botswana.“I’m delighted that the world is beginning to see it the way we did, but I think it’s a very important development for the Olympic movement, and I celebrate that,” he added.The announcement by the IOC of the reintroduction of the testing for the SRY gene did not meet with universal approval, with French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari saying it was “a step backwards”.ALSO READ | Olympic bronze medallist Alysha Newman suspended for missing doping testsAndrew Sinclair, the scientist who discovered the gene, had said even ahead of the decision, the idea that biological sex is entirely defined by chromosomes is “overly simplistic”.IOC president Kirsty Coventry, who succeeded Thomas Bach last year, had made resolving the thorny issue a priority after the 2024 Paris Games were rocked by a gender row involving women boxers Imane Khelif of Algeria and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting.Khelif and Lin were excluded from the International Boxing Association’s 2023 world championships after the IBA said they had failed eligibility tests.However, the IOC allowed them both to compete at the Paris Games, saying they had been victims of “a sudden and arbitrary decision by the IBA”.Both boxers went on to win gold medals. Coe praised Coventry for taking the bull by the horns and coming up with a blanket policy to cover all Olympic sports.“I’m delighted that the new president, Kirsty, has really, in her first few months as president, gone out of her way to protect the female category,” said the 69-year-old Englishman.“If you don’t, then you don’t have women’s sport, and Kirsty, of all people, is going to protect women’s sport, so we are 100 per cent behind that position at World Athletics, it’s a position we took many years ago,” he added.Published on May 01, 2026 #World #Athletics #president #Sebastian #Coe #hails #IOC #gender #testing #decision

Olympic bronze medallist Alysha Newman suspended for missing doping tests

Andrew Sinclair, the scientist who discovered the gene, had said even ahead of the decision, the idea that biological sex is entirely defined by chromosomes is “overly simplistic”.

IOC president Kirsty Coventry, who succeeded Thomas Bach last year, had made resolving the thorny issue a priority after the 2024 Paris Games were rocked by a gender row involving women boxers Imane Khelif of Algeria and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting.

Khelif and Lin were excluded from the International Boxing Association’s 2023 world championships after the IBA said they had failed eligibility tests.

However, the IOC allowed them both to compete at the Paris Games, saying they had been victims of “a sudden and arbitrary decision by the IBA”.

Both boxers went on to win gold medals. Coe praised Coventry for taking the bull by the horns and coming up with a blanket policy to cover all Olympic sports.

“I’m delighted that the new president, Kirsty, has really, in her first few months as president, gone out of her way to protect the female category,” said the 69-year-old Englishman.

“If you don’t, then you don’t have women’s sport, and Kirsty, of all people, is going to protect women’s sport, so we are 100 per cent behind that position at World Athletics, it’s a position we took many years ago,” he added.

Published on May 01, 2026

#World #Athletics #president #Sebastian #Coe #hails #IOC #gender #testing #decision">World Athletics president Sebastian Coe hails IOC gender testing decision

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe told AFP that the International Olympic Committee’s decision in March to introduce testing for gender to determine eligibility to compete in the female category, preventing transgender women from competing, is a “very important development for the Olympic movement”.

The screening will mean Olympic women’s sports from the 2028 Los Angeles Games will be limited to biological females, which would also rule out those with differences in sexual development (DSD).

WA had already announced last July it was introducing the SRY gene test.

“You know, I didn’t come into World Athletics for a popularity contest, I came in to do what I think is the right thing,” said Coe ahead of the World Athletics Relays being hosted in Gaborone, Botswana.

“I’m delighted that the world is beginning to see it the way we did, but I think it’s a very important development for the Olympic movement, and I celebrate that,” he added.

The announcement by the IOC of the reintroduction of the testing for the SRY gene did not meet with universal approval, with French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari saying it was “a step backwards”.

ALSO READ | Olympic bronze medallist Alysha Newman suspended for missing doping tests

Andrew Sinclair, the scientist who discovered the gene, had said even ahead of the decision, the idea that biological sex is entirely defined by chromosomes is “overly simplistic”.

IOC president Kirsty Coventry, who succeeded Thomas Bach last year, had made resolving the thorny issue a priority after the 2024 Paris Games were rocked by a gender row involving women boxers Imane Khelif of Algeria and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting.

Khelif and Lin were excluded from the International Boxing Association’s 2023 world championships after the IBA said they had failed eligibility tests.

However, the IOC allowed them both to compete at the Paris Games, saying they had been victims of “a sudden and arbitrary decision by the IBA”.

Both boxers went on to win gold medals. Coe praised Coventry for taking the bull by the horns and coming up with a blanket policy to cover all Olympic sports.

“I’m delighted that the new president, Kirsty, has really, in her first few months as president, gone out of her way to protect the female category,” said the 69-year-old Englishman.

“If you don’t, then you don’t have women’s sport, and Kirsty, of all people, is going to protect women’s sport, so we are 100 per cent behind that position at World Athletics, it’s a position we took many years ago,” he added.

Published on May 01, 2026

#World #Athletics #president #Sebastian #Coe #hails #IOC #gender #testing #decision
Top MLB Surprises So Far: Hitters and Pitchers Exceeding Expectations | Deadspin.com Feb 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Dalton Rushing against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images It’s officially May, which means it’s tougher to use the small sample size explanation for players who have gotten off to surprisingly fast starts. Here’s our lineup and pitching staff comprised of pleasant surprises.C: Dalton Rushing, Los Angeles DodgersAs a former second-round pick of the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona DiamondbacksVargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team. 2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore OriolesJackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.3B: Amed Rosario, New York YankeesRyan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta BravesWith two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles) Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta BravesSmith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season. Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay RaysBaker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default. #Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.comFeb 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Dalton Rushing against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

It’s officially May, which means it’s tougher to use the small sample size explanation for players who have gotten off to surprisingly fast starts. 

Here’s our lineup and pitching staff comprised of pleasant surprises.

C: Dalton Rushing, Los Angeles Dodgers

As a former second-round pick of the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.

1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona Diamondbacks

Vargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team.

2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore Orioles

Jackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.

3B: Amed Rosario, New York Yankees

Ryan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.

SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta Braves

With two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.

OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles)


Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn ImagesApr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.

DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta Braves

Smith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season.

Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)

These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.

Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay Rays

Baker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default.

#Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.com">Top MLB Surprises So Far: Hitters and Pitchers Exceeding Expectations | Deadspin.com Feb 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Dalton Rushing against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images It’s officially May, which means it’s tougher to use the small sample size explanation for players who have gotten off to surprisingly fast starts. Here’s our lineup and pitching staff comprised of pleasant surprises.C: Dalton Rushing, Los Angeles DodgersAs a former second-round pick of the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona DiamondbacksVargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team. 2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore OriolesJackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.3B: Amed Rosario, New York YankeesRyan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta BravesWith two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles) Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta BravesSmith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season. Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay RaysBaker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default. #Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.com

the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.

1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona Diamondbacks

Vargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team.

2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore Orioles

Jackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.

3B: Amed Rosario, New York Yankees

Ryan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.

SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta Braves

With two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.

OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles)


Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn ImagesApr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.

DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta Braves

Smith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season.

Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)

These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.

Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay Rays

Baker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default.

#Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.com">Top MLB Surprises So Far: Hitters and Pitchers Exceeding Expectations | Deadspin.com
Top MLB Surprises So Far: Hitters and Pitchers Exceeding Expectations | Deadspin.com Feb 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Dalton Rushing against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images It’s officially May, which means it’s tougher to use the small sample size explanation for players who have gotten off to surprisingly fast starts. Here’s our lineup and pitching staff comprised of pleasant surprises.C: Dalton Rushing, Los Angeles DodgersAs a former second-round pick of the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona DiamondbacksVargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team. 2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore OriolesJackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.3B: Amed Rosario, New York YankeesRyan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta BravesWith two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles) Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta BravesSmith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season. Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay RaysBaker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default. #Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.comFeb 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Dalton Rushing against the Chicago Cubs during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

It’s officially May, which means it’s tougher to use the small sample size explanation for players who have gotten off to surprisingly fast starts. 

Here’s our lineup and pitching staff comprised of pleasant surprises.

C: Dalton Rushing, Los Angeles Dodgers

As a former second-round pick of the Death Star Dodgers, Rushing is almost disqualified as a surprise. But seven homers in 46 at-bats — three more than he had in 142 at-bats as a rookie last year — as the backup to Will Smith, a potential Hall of Fame-bound catcher, supersedes his draft/prospect status.

1B: Ildemaro Vargas, Arizona Diamondbacks

Vargas, a career .249 hitter entering the season, has a hit in all 25 games in which he’s played — 15 games longer than his previous longest streak and tied with Joe Torre for the third-longest season-opening hitting streak of the last 90 years. Vargas has also seen time at six positions. He should be the captain of this team.

2B: Jeremiah Jackson, Baltimore Orioles

Jackson’s strikeout-to-walk ratio (22/2 in 96 plate appearances) may make a full breakout unlikely. But with five homers and a .748 OPS, the former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels as an 18-year-old in 2018 is doing a terrific job filling in for the injured Jackson Holliday.

3B: Amed Rosario, New York Yankees

Ryan McMahon is finally stirring at the plate and still offers plus-defense, so Rosario’s early burst (four homers, 13 RBIs and an .828 OPS) will probably go down as the highlight of his season. But he’s another example of Brian Cashman’s ability to find useful short-term solutions.

SS: Mauricio Dubon, Atlanta Braves

With two utilityman Gold Gloves on his mantle, Dubon is well-known for his defensive prowess at a variety of positions. But he’s provided some unexpected offense — his .743 OPS would be the highest of his career — while holding down short as Ha-Seong Kim recovers from a finger injury.

OF: Carlos Cortes (Not The Sacramento Athletics), Troy Johnston (Colorado Rockies), Leody Tavares (Baltimore Orioles)


Apr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn ImagesApr 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Leody Taveras (30) celebrates with team mates after hitting a grand slam in the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Anyone hitting .400, even in just 65 at-bats, is worth noting — especially Cortes, a 28-year-old who hit .254 in 648 minor league games. The Rockies look like a functional big league team thanks to savvy pickups like Johnston, a waiver wire claim who is also 28 and hitting .315 in his first extended big league action, Tavares was a two-time top 100 prospect in the late 2010s who has forced his way into a near-everyday role with the Orioles thanks to an .820 OPS that is nearly 300 points higher than last year’s mark.

DH: Dominic Smith, Atlanta Braves

Smith has four homers in 64 at-bats — one fewer than he had in 204 at-bats last year — while drawing 18 starts at DH as Atlanta waits for Sean Murphy to return. His first round-tripper, a walk-off grand slam hit fewer than two weeks after Smith’s Mom died, might be the most moving homer of the season.

Rotation: Bryce Elder (Atlanta Braves), Davis Martin (Chicago White Sox), Landen Roupp (San Francisco Giants), Jose Soriano (Los Angeles Angels), Michael Soroka (Arizona Diamondbacks)

These five pitchers are 21-4 with a 1.90 ERA after going 35-47 with a 4.43 ERA last year. Each hurler is between 26 and 29 years old, so there’s plenty of reason to believe this year’s improvements — and in the case of Soroka, good health following a pair of seasons lost to Achilles injuries — are sustainable over the long haul.

Closer: Bryan Baker, Tampa Bay Rays

Baker is 31 and pitching in a late-inning role for the Rays, who change closers like the rest of us change socks. But closers are falling apart all over the place, so Baker’s seven saves — three more than he had entering the season — make him our ninth-inning guy by default.

#Top #MLB #Surprises #Hitters #Pitchers #Exceeding #Expectations #Deadspin.com

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner beat Arthur Fils 6-2, 6-4 to reach the Madrid Open final on Friday.

The Italian won his 22nd straight match to book a place in Sunday’s final, where he will aim to win a record fifth consecutive Masters 1000 title.

With his chief rival Carlos Alcaraz out injured, Sinner is the firm favourite to triumph at the Caja Magica and add to his recent titles at Indian Wells, Miami and Monte-Carlo.

The 24-year-old will face second seed Alexander Zverev or promising Belgian Alexander Blockx in the final.

Beating Sinner right now seems a near-impossible task, and the four-time Grand Slam champion started superbly against Barcelona Open winner Fils, who has impressed since returning from injury in February.

The Italian broke in the third game when Fils went long to lead 2-1.

Sinner broke again in the fifth game, with Fils, ranked 25th in the world, unable to cope with his power from the baseline.

ALSO READ: Japan’s Nishikori, who reached 2014 US Open final, to retire at end of season

The Frenchman has not yet reached a Masters 1000 final and, with Sinner in excellent form, it quickly became clear he would have to wait a little longer.

Sinner wrapped up the first set on serve after Fils found some resistance to prevent a third break.

The second set was far closer, with Fils growing in confidence.

The 21-year-old saved two break points to take a 3-2 lead and then put pressure on Sinner’s next service game, although the Italian produced two aces to hold.

Sinner broke with a down-the-line backhand winner at the end of an excellent rally to take a 5-4 lead, before serving out the match.

Published on May 01, 2026

#Sinner #reaches #Madrid #Open #final #straightsets #win #Arthur #Fils">Sinner reaches Madrid Open final with straight-sets win over Arthur Fils World No. 1 Jannik Sinner beat Arthur Fils 6-2, 6-4 to reach the Madrid Open final on Friday.The Italian won his 22nd straight match to book a place in Sunday’s final, where he will aim to win a record fifth consecutive Masters 1000 title.With his chief rival Carlos Alcaraz out injured, Sinner is the firm favourite to triumph at the Caja Magica and add to his recent titles at Indian Wells, Miami and Monte-Carlo.The 24-year-old will face second seed Alexander Zverev or promising Belgian Alexander Blockx in the final.Beating Sinner right now seems a near-impossible task, and the four-time Grand Slam champion started superbly against Barcelona Open winner Fils, who has impressed since returning from injury in February.The Italian broke in the third game when Fils went long to lead 2-1.Sinner broke again in the fifth game, with Fils, ranked 25th in the world, unable to cope with his power from the baseline.ALSO READ: Japan’s Nishikori, who reached 2014 US Open final, to retire at end of seasonThe Frenchman has not yet reached a Masters 1000 final and, with Sinner in excellent form, it quickly became clear he would have to wait a little longer.Sinner wrapped up the first set on serve after Fils found some resistance to prevent a third break.The second set was far closer, with Fils growing in confidence.The 21-year-old saved two break points to take a 3-2 lead and then put pressure on Sinner’s next service game, although the Italian produced two aces to hold.Sinner broke with a down-the-line backhand winner at the end of an excellent rally to take a 5-4 lead, before serving out the match.Published on May 01, 2026 #Sinner #reaches #Madrid #Open #final #straightsets #win #Arthur #Fils

Japan’s Nishikori, who reached 2014 US Open final, to retire at end of season

The Frenchman has not yet reached a Masters 1000 final and, with Sinner in excellent form, it quickly became clear he would have to wait a little longer.

Sinner wrapped up the first set on serve after Fils found some resistance to prevent a third break.

The second set was far closer, with Fils growing in confidence.

The 21-year-old saved two break points to take a 3-2 lead and then put pressure on Sinner’s next service game, although the Italian produced two aces to hold.

Sinner broke with a down-the-line backhand winner at the end of an excellent rally to take a 5-4 lead, before serving out the match.

Published on May 01, 2026

#Sinner #reaches #Madrid #Open #final #straightsets #win #Arthur #Fils">Sinner reaches Madrid Open final with straight-sets win over Arthur Fils

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner beat Arthur Fils 6-2, 6-4 to reach the Madrid Open final on Friday.

The Italian won his 22nd straight match to book a place in Sunday’s final, where he will aim to win a record fifth consecutive Masters 1000 title.

With his chief rival Carlos Alcaraz out injured, Sinner is the firm favourite to triumph at the Caja Magica and add to his recent titles at Indian Wells, Miami and Monte-Carlo.

The 24-year-old will face second seed Alexander Zverev or promising Belgian Alexander Blockx in the final.

Beating Sinner right now seems a near-impossible task, and the four-time Grand Slam champion started superbly against Barcelona Open winner Fils, who has impressed since returning from injury in February.

The Italian broke in the third game when Fils went long to lead 2-1.

Sinner broke again in the fifth game, with Fils, ranked 25th in the world, unable to cope with his power from the baseline.

ALSO READ: Japan’s Nishikori, who reached 2014 US Open final, to retire at end of season

The Frenchman has not yet reached a Masters 1000 final and, with Sinner in excellent form, it quickly became clear he would have to wait a little longer.

Sinner wrapped up the first set on serve after Fils found some resistance to prevent a third break.

The second set was far closer, with Fils growing in confidence.

The 21-year-old saved two break points to take a 3-2 lead and then put pressure on Sinner’s next service game, although the Italian produced two aces to hold.

Sinner broke with a down-the-line backhand winner at the end of an excellent rally to take a 5-4 lead, before serving out the match.

Published on May 01, 2026

#Sinner #reaches #Madrid #Open #final #straightsets #win #Arthur #Fils

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