Deadspin | Louisiana Tech closes in on move to Sun Belt Conference Nov 15, 2025; Pullman, Washington, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs helmet sits during a game against the Washington State Cougars in the second half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images Louisiana Tech is a step closer to a move to the Sun Belt Conference on July 1 after coming to a settlement in principle with jilted Conference USA. A settlement in principle means the two sides have reached an agreement on how to settle a dispute but have yet to finalize and execute the document. Louisiana Tech has belonged to Conference USA since 2013 and announced last year that it planned to join the Sun Belt no later than the beginning of the 2027-28 academic year. The school and CUSA had been unable to reach an agreement on how much Louisiana Tech should pay to leave the conference. The Athletic reported Tuesday that CUSA officials wanted $5.5 million, with Louisiana Tech offering “much less.” The issue wound up in litigation. Once everyone signs off on the agreement, CUSA will need to redo conference schedules. Both CUSA and the Sun Belt, for example, issued schedules for football that included Louisiana Tech. Under the Sun Belt Conference’s schedule, the Bulldogs could get off to a rough start to the 2026 football season. Two of their first three games are on the road against power-4 teams LSU and Baylor –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Louisiana #Tech #closes #move #Sun #Belt #Conference

Deadspin | Louisiana Tech closes in on move to Sun Belt Conference
Nov 15, 2025; Pullman, Washington, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs helmet sits during a game against the Washington State Cougars in the second half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images

Louisiana Tech is a step closer to a move to the Sun Belt Conference on July 1 after coming to a settlement in principle with jilted Conference USA.

A settlement in principle means the two sides have reached an agreement on how to settle a dispute but have yet to finalize and execute the document.

Louisiana Tech has belonged to Conference USA since 2013 and announced last year that it planned to join the Sun Belt no later than the beginning of the 2027-28 academic year.

The school and CUSA had been unable to reach an agreement on how much Louisiana Tech should pay to leave the conference. The Athletic reported Tuesday that CUSA officials wanted $5.5 million, with Louisiana Tech offering “much less.”

The issue wound up in litigation.

Once everyone signs off on the agreement, CUSA will need to redo conference schedules. Both CUSA and the Sun Belt, for example, issued schedules for football that included Louisiana Tech.

Under the Sun Belt Conference’s schedule, the Bulldogs could get off to a rough start to the 2026 football season. Two of their first three games are on the road against power-4 teams LSU and Baylor

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Louisiana #Tech #closes #move #Sun #Belt #Conference

Sports news April 21, 2026

Nov 15, 2025; Pullman, Washington, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs helmet sits during a game against the Washington State Cougars in the second half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images

Louisiana Tech is a step closer to a move to the Sun Belt Conference on July 1 after coming to a settlement in principle with jilted Conference USA.

A settlement in principle means the two sides have reached an agreement on how to settle a dispute but have yet to finalize and execute the document.

Louisiana Tech has belonged to Conference USA since 2013 and announced last year that it planned to join the Sun Belt no later than the beginning of the 2027-28 academic year.

The school and CUSA had been unable to reach an agreement on how much Louisiana Tech should pay to leave the conference. The Athletic reported Tuesday that CUSA officials wanted $5.5 million, with Louisiana Tech offering “much less.”

The issue wound up in litigation.

Once everyone signs off on the agreement, CUSA will need to redo conference schedules. Both CUSA and the Sun Belt, for example, issued schedules for football that included Louisiana Tech.

Under the Sun Belt Conference’s schedule, the Bulldogs could get off to a rough start to the 2026 football season. Two of their first three games are on the road against power-4 teams LSU and Baylor

–Field Level Media

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#Deadspin #Louisiana #Tech #closes #move #Sun #Belt #Conference

Fernando Mendoza on faith, family, and his NFL Draft journey to No. 1 overall pick <div id="zephr-anchor"><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">This is a big week for Fernando Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">One that will end with him, in all likelihood, as the first-overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, and the new face of the Las Vegas Raiders. So how did that week begin for the Indiana quarterback and 2025 Heisman Trophy winner?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">By sitting down to chat with <em>SB Nation </em>first thing Monday morning.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“No other way I’d want to do it,” said Mendoza to me with a bright smile over Zoom on Monday.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Our conversation began with a look back.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I would sum up the past year as a blessing,” began Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“When I decided to take the leap of faith from California to Indiana, I was unsure about what the results would be. However, my parents made sure that I stayed focused in the present moment to then best serve my teammates and best serve my situation at hand. I’ve had great teammates and great coaches. Which allowed the team to win the Big Ten Championship, a national championship, and the team to win a Heisman, which was awesome.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“So, I would say this has been an ultimate blessing, and look forward to the next opportunity at hand.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Fernando Mendoza’s draft process</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">For years, I’ve described the NFL Draft as the world’s longest, strangest job interview.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">I asked Mendoza how this process has been for him, and whether he would agree with that assessment. He began with a word I was not quite expecting.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“The NFL draft process has been extraneous,” started Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“However, I am excited that I’ve been a part of it, and it’s been a complete honor. I’ve really enjoyed all the testing and quizzing, whether it’s been in Zoom, formal interviews with the Combine, or every single day, preparing like you have the largest job interview at hand, physically, mentally, and emotionally.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“It’s been a blessing, and although I said it has been extraneous, it’s been great to be able to quiz and test and poke and prod at it. Time for everybody to know who the real me is. It’s really hard to fake an interview, you know, over a couple months. Maybe one day you can fool somebody, but over a couple months, when everybody watches the film, does more research, they find out who you really are, so I’m really excited about how this process has already been going,” concluded Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">An area where Mendoza certainly stands out is as a leader, and with his competitive toughness. Take the Big Ten Championship Game, where he took an absolute shot early against Ohio State but quickly returned to the lineup to help Indiana win a title. Or the comeback against Penn State, and of course the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/1100774/fernando-mendoza-td-run-indiana-national-championship-video-quotes">tough fourth-down touchdown run against Miami in the National Championship Game</a>.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Competitive toughness matters for a quarterback. Just ask Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I believe competitive toughness is one of the most important strengths for a quarterback to have, because the quarterback needs to be able to be resilient. And not only when things are going right, needs to inspire his team to then take the next step to then secure the win, but also when things are not going well, when the quarterback has a bad game, when the team loses, or when the team’s down in the fourth quarter, that competitive toughness<br/>and competitive emotional toughness is extremely important, and I believe it’s a trait you see in all the top quarterbacks, and it’s a trait I’ve tried to emulate,“ described Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">However, in his unassuming fashion, Mendoza conceded he still has much to learn about this trait, and being a leader.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I still need to learn a lot more about it,” added Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I still have a long way to go with my competitive toughness, but I believe I’m on the right track, and I’ve learned from a lot of great mentors and idols before me.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">I then asked Mendoza if there was one play he would use to sum up his draft profile for teams, albeit with a caveat.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">He could not pick that aforementioned run against Miami.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“Although that [run against Miami] looks like the clear-cut answer, that would not be my answer either way, because I like throwing the ball more. I believe I’m a very efficient passer,” started the Indiana quarterback.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I would say the play is not a play that’s been broadcast a lot. It was at the end of the third quarter, or start of the fourth quarter, I believe, against Iowa. I threw a seam route to Elijah Sarratt on the left side of the field.<br/>I believe we’re in the minus-30 or minus-25 yard line,“ continued Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“And it was just a great play, great connection, it was gritty all around, and that’s the play that I would use.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Here is that play in question, and it is a great play, from Mendoza reading the late rotation in the secondary to putting this seam ball right on the money, highlighting the accuracy that is another big part of his evaluation.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">And of course, taking a huge shot just after making the throw, bringing us back to that competitive toughness trait.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">I then asked Mendoza to walk me through that play, starting with his pre-snap process. That’s when he gave me a great breakdown of how he begins plays at the line of scrimmage, complete with an acronym I was not expecting.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“Yeah, my pre-stamp process is a vital part of my preparation, and a vital part of my success this year. I’ve always been able to, at the line, this past year, have a ‘PIMP,’” started the quarterback.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">That stands for Protection, Intent, Mechanics, and Problems.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“Which means I always go over my protection first, so you know what your hot answers are. Am I gonna be hot off a defender? Who am I responsible for as a quarterback to make sure I can best serve my teammates, and either check the play, or make us in a positive play? Then the intent of the play, why are we calling this play?<br/>If it’s, you know, third down and two, I’m not gonna throw a go ball 70 yards down the field obviously, unless it’s open, but it’s probably not the intent of the play,“ described Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“The mechanics of each play, which are the progression, the footwork, and the intricacies, technique-wise, that a quarterback needs to have, whether it’s, you know, checking it from one side, a nd whether it’s making it an audible, those are the mechanics that apply,” added the quarterback.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“And the last one are the problems.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“For example, if we have a pass play called, and it is awful against Cover 2, and I know my problems against Cover 2, we usually have a hot route, or a check that we can get out of.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“So the ‘PIMP’ is a process I had in college, and I look forward to whatever process my future coaching staff wants me to use, and best thinks that it can best serve our team in the NFL, I’m very open and very amicable to using that.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Even with his strengths as a quarterback, and the expectation that he will be the first player selected on Thursday night, Mendoza knows he will need to keep improving.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">And he knows exactly where he needs to improve.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I believe the under-center nature is very important, and the play-action nature, especially in a lot of the offenses that have been successful in this league, it’s been making the play-action pass look the same as the run action, to make the linebackers confused, and to really put the defense on hesitation for a split second. And with that, I believe that if you can get that as a rookie, it’s gonna be vital and help your development,” described Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Still, whatever team drafts him is getting someone with “competitive toughness” and “emotional intelligence,” in his words.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“My character, I believe, has been put on display, and I look forward to improving that. I have a lot of work to improve, and really look forward to whatever team drafts me, to diving into that program, diving into the strengths and weaknesses they believe I have, and how they’re gonna develop me, and get me ready to play on Sundays. I still believe I have a lot of work to do, but I’m excited to take that work, bumps and bruises head-on,” began Mendoza when I asked him what the team that drafts him is getting in a player, and a person.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“Character, you’re gonna get someone with competitive toughness, and get someone with emotional intelligence.<br/>Whether he gets cheered off the field, or booed off the field, he’s gonna get better every each and single week, by his process and preparation.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I’m gonna make sure that I can be the best leader to the situation that I’m in. Whatever leadership role I can be a part of, whether it’s taking a backseat as more of a servant leader, or taking a front seat. Whatever it is, I am all there for the team, the team, the team, the team. That’s what I want to help to win games, and that’s all I’m there for, whatever role I should play.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">And as far as the player they are getting?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">That team is getting a point guard. A very efficient point guard.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“As a player, you’re getting someone who’s gonna be an efficient passer and gonna be a point guard of the ball. I believe I was able to show that later in the season, where there were games where my completion percentage was very high, and some games where I was even lucky enough to throw more touchdowns than incompletions,” started Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I look forward to refining and being the point guard of the team whenever I’m plugged in, and helping the team be the most efficient. Because although I think I’m great, and my mom thinks I’m a great playmaker, I understand the real playmakers are tight ends, receivers, and running backs, and our offensive line, and I look forward to making those guys shine on Sundays,” continued Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Fernando Mendoza’s work with Pfizer</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">In addition to talking about the NFL Draft, we also talked about the work Mendoza is doing with Pfizer. The company is starting an awareness campaign promoting the importance of early cancer screenings, and the campaign even includes the incredible locker room speech from Al Pacino at the end of <em>Any: Given Sunday</em>:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Two commercials have also been filmed featuring Mendoza, with those ads set to air on Thursday night during the NFL Draft.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">I asked Mendoza about this campaign, and why it matters to him.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“This campaign is important to me because I’ve been very public about my family’s health, and friends and family’s health, and I believe that health should be at the forefront. And it’s where you see the best players perform, it’s one of the most important values of life, and it’s something that I believe is one of the most important values of life,” added Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“And 50% of Americans are late on their cancer screenings, and I believe that I have a platform, and that I should use it for goodwill, and that I’ve been put on this platform to use it for goodwill, and be able to put the message out there that you should get early screened, then have early detections, then help your family life, as it helped my life, early screens.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“It’s very vital, and it’s something I believe I should use my platform for,” continued Mendoza.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">This is not the first time Mendoza has used his platform in such a manner. Starting at California he helped raise money for multiple sclerosis research, a matter that it personal to his family. That work continued at Indiana alongside his brother Alberto, a fellow quarterback on the Indiana roster. As of this week the brothers have raised nearly $370,000 for the National MS Society, continuing their “fight against MS.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Mendoza believes helping people in their day-to-day lives is the most “rewarding” part of being an athlete.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I feel like there are a lot of partnerships, however, the ones that have tangible applications, and that could help people day-to-day in their life, are the most important, and the most rewarding for an athlete like me,” began Mendoza. “And that is why I decided to partner with Pfizer, because you can see the tangible application, as I’ve seen in my family’s life, and friends’ life, as well.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“But I’ve been able to see it. And my message here today can maybe push someone there to get a screening, and that could help drastically improve their health and their family’s life, and that’s very important to me.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Readers interested in learning more are encouraged to head to <a href="https://www.pfizerforall.com/find-care/cancer-screening/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PfizerForAll.com/screenings</a> to learn about which cancer screenings may be right for them.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Fernando Mendoza’s path to No. 1</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Fernando Mendoza has walked a winding path to this moment, where he is on the cusp of being the first player selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">It began with two recruiting stars, minimal interest on the recruiting trail, and nearly committing to Yale before enrolling at California.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">I asked Mendoza about that path, and what advice he would have for young athletes who might be frustrated with how their own journey is unfolding.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“You mentioned it in your question,” started Mendoza. “I was a two-star recruit, and that was my problem. My problem wasn’t being a two-star recruit, the problem was labeling myself as a two-star recruit. So I put this imaginary ceiling over my head, capping my potential, and capping my output and belief in myself.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“However, my family, especially my mom, helping with the optimistic approach, saying, ‘Hey, if you see the best in situations, you’ll get the best in situations. You’re not a 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-star.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“So at that point, just focus on you, focus on what you need to work on, and that process, and as I’ve seen in my journey, that two-star barrier, or imaginary ceiling, has been lifted for unlimited and exponential growth.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Something else that has helped Mendoza along his journey is his faith. He is very open about his Catholic faith, and over the course of our time together he used the word “blessing” several times. That faith has kept him grounded throughout his journey.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I believe that God has put me in this position in order to help other people,” began Mendoza when I asked him about his faith.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“So, whether it’s raising money for health initiatives, whether it’s giving back to the community, or whether it’s spraying His Word, I believe that that is a reason that I’ve been blessed to this point, and that’s a big reason why I took the Heisman back to the Catholic Church [on the Indiana campus]. It was an awesome experience, and it’s been really grounding, whether it’s been prayer, meditation, or Mass.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“It’s been a big part of my journey, and a big guidance on how to live a better life.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Of course, Mendoza points to his parents as another part of the foundation of support around him, as he marches closer to being the first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“My parents have allowed me to be my own man,” started Mendoza when I asked him about their influence.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“They’ve been able to support me and give them the framework to what successful players, characters, and people<br/>I’ve had in the past. However, they’ve told me, ‘[H]ey, if you want to play football, great, no worries. If you want to study in finance, great, no worries. Whatever you want to do, make sure they have a love and passion for it, and we’re going to be here supporting you along the way, no matter what bumps and bruises occur.‘</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“And with that, I’ve been very fortunate to have them, and really have exercised that framework, which I believe has helped me get to this point today.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Mendoza is opting to spend Thursday night in Miami with his family and friends, rather than attend the 2026 NFL Draft in person in Pittsburgh.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">He told me that he wanted to spend the night with the “whole village” of people who “poured into my football journey.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I’m excited,” Mendoza said to me. “We decided to do it at home because there’s been a lot of travel this year, especially with [the] playoff run, the Heisman, Big Ten Championship. And to be able to do it at home, with the whole village of everybody who’s poured into my football journey, I believe that’s at the forefront and the most prominent purpose of the draft, because this is not an ending, this is a journey, and this is a new beginning. And I’m excited to get catapulted into the next opportunity with everybody who’s pushed me to this point, and helped me get to this opportunity so far.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“My parents really wanted to do it at home. And to have them there, and we’re gonna be traveling out the next day to whatever team drafts me. So, it’s gonna be good being at home, sleeping in our bed, and then heading out in the morning.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">As our time came to an end, I had one final question for Mendoza: Has he thought about that moment when he hears his name called, and will he announce his next move on LinkedIn, his social media app of choice?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">He told me he can’t wait to change his status to “employed” on that app.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“Yes, hopefully I go from unemployed to employed,” said Mendoza with a laugh.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“Yeah, I see my status update, definitely, so that’d be awesome.“</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">He then admitted that he really has not started to think about what that moment will be like. Thursday night.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I have not let myself … have some type of forward-living experience and foreshadowing of the draft yet.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">He did admit, however, that it is finally starting to feel real, and that he knows that soon enough, he will be on an NFL team, starting his professional journey.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“However, later in the draft process, I came to a realization, especially on the 30 visits. It’s like, wow, okay, this is real. It’s been talked [about], it’s been the Combine, but in reality, I’m most likely going to be in one of these NFL rooms or facilities in the next coming of weeks. So that realization set in, and it just increased the urgency, whether it’s physically, mentally, or emotionally.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">That process will begin in earnest Thursday night.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">In all likelihood as the first-overall selection.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><em>For the full video, you can <a href="https://youtu.be/iv92sfwOPKk">watch the interview here</a>.</em></p></div></div> #Fernando #Mendoza #faith #family #NFL #Draft #journey #pick

Deadspin | Dodgers’ Yoshinobu Yamamoto looks for first win vs. rival Giants Apr 14, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto (18) runs off the mound after pitching against the New York Mets during the first inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images Yoshinobu Yamamoto will be aiming for his first career win against the San Francisco Giants when the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers take on their rivals for the first time this season Tuesday night in the opener of a three-game series. The Giants are expected to counter with their hottest pitcher, right-hander Landen Roupp (3-1, 2.38 ERA), who, like Yamamoto, enters the series in fine form but never has beaten his Tuesday opponent. While the Giants enjoyed a day off Monday following a 4-5 trip through Baltimore, Cincinnati and Washington, the Dodgers salvaged a 2-2 split at Colorado with a five-home run barrage that produced a 12-3 romp over the Rockies. Yamamoto (2-1, 2.10) hasn’t allowed more than five hits or two runs in any of his four starts and has walked a total of just three batters all season. The right-hander was so impressive in his last outing on April 14 — a 2-1 home win over the New York Mets in which he gave up just four hits and one run with seven strikeouts in 7 2/3 innings — that Dodgers manager Dave Roberts all but labeled Yamamoto the best pitcher in the game. “We don’t have to look any further than October to see what he’s done,” Roberts told reporters, alluding to Yamamoto’s record (7-1, 2.25 ERA) over 10 career postseason games. “The huge velocity of (Tarik) Skubal and (Paul) Skenes and what they’ve done, and rightfully so, but our guy has done it in the biggest of moments.” Yamamoto will be making his fourth career start at Oracle Park, his most at any road site. He hasn’t gotten a decision in any of his three previous visits despite a 2.29 ERA and 23 strikeouts in 19 2/3 innings. Overall, the 27-year-old is 0-1 with a 3.03 ERA in five career starts against the Giants. Roupp accounted for two of the four wins on the Giants’ just-completed trip, limiting the Orioles and Reds to a total of six hits and one run over 12 innings. His most recent outing — he threw the first six innings of a 3-0 win at Cincinnati on Thursday — helped convince new Giants manager Tony Vitello to push Tyler Mahle back a day in the team rotation, moving Roupp into the No. 3 slot behind Logan Webb and Robbie Ray. Mahle has been rescheduled to start Wednesday’s rematch, opposed by Shohei Ohtani. As in his last start, Roupp will be pitching the game following a loss. He acknowledged in Cincinnati the responsibility of getting the ball in that situation. “I just wanted to go out there and stop the bleeding, and get us back on the right track,” he told reporters after the win. “I just wanted to go out there and just give the team the best chance to win.” Roupp has not fared well against the Dodgers in four previous duels, including two starts, going 0-2 with a 7.30 ERA. Interestingly, the 27-year-old has never allowed a hit to Max Muncy or Dalton Rushing in a combined four previous head-to-heads, two of which resulted in strikeouts. Muncy and Rushing combined for six hits, including two homers apiece, and five RBIs on Tuesday at Colorado. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Dodgers #Yoshinobu #Yamamoto #win #rival #Giants

#Deadspin #Dodgers #Yoshinobu #Yamamoto #win #rival #Giants">

mwasimuddin125 0

Apr 14, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto (18) runs off the mound after pitching against the New York Mets during the first inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Yoshinobu Yamamoto will be aiming for his first career win against the San Francisco Giants when the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers take on their rivals for the first time this season Tuesday night in the opener of a three-game series.

The Giants are expected to counter with their hottest pitcher, right-hander Landen Roupp (3-1, 2.38 ERA), who, like Yamamoto, enters the series in fine form but never has beaten his Tuesday opponent.

While the Giants enjoyed a day off Monday following a 4-5 trip through Baltimore, Cincinnati and Washington, the Dodgers salvaged a 2-2 split at Colorado with a five-home run barrage that produced a 12-3 romp over the Rockies.

Yamamoto (2-1, 2.10) hasn’t allowed more than five hits or two runs in any of his four starts and has walked a total of just three batters all season.

The right-hander was so impressive in his last outing on April 14 — a 2-1 home win over the New York Mets in which he gave up just four hits and one run with seven strikeouts in 7 2/3 innings — that Dodgers manager Dave Roberts all but labeled Yamamoto the best pitcher in the game.

“We don’t have to look any further than October to see what he’s done,” Roberts told reporters, alluding to Yamamoto’s record (7-1, 2.25 ERA) over 10 career postseason games. “The huge velocity of (Tarik) Skubal and (Paul) Skenes and what they’ve done, and rightfully so, but our guy has done it in the biggest of moments.”

Yamamoto will be making his fourth career start at Oracle Park, his most at any road site. He hasn’t gotten a decision in any of his three previous visits despite a 2.29 ERA and 23 strikeouts in 19 2/3 innings.

Overall, the 27-year-old is 0-1 with a 3.03 ERA in five career starts against the Giants.

Roupp accounted for two of the four wins on the Giants’ just-completed trip, limiting the Orioles and Reds to a total of six hits and one run over 12 innings.

His most recent outing — he threw the first six innings of a 3-0 win at Cincinnati on Thursday — helped convince new Giants manager Tony Vitello to push Tyler Mahle back a day in the team rotation, moving Roupp into the No. 3 slot behind Logan Webb and Robbie Ray.

Mahle has been rescheduled to start Wednesday’s rematch, opposed by Shohei Ohtani.

As in his last start, Roupp will be pitching the game following a loss. He acknowledged in Cincinnati the responsibility of getting the ball in that situation.

“I just wanted to go out there and stop the bleeding, and get us back on the right track,” he told reporters after the win. “I just wanted to go out there and just give the team the best chance to win.”

Roupp has not fared well against the Dodgers in four previous duels, including two starts, going 0-2 with a 7.30 ERA.

Interestingly, the 27-year-old has never allowed a hit to Max Muncy or Dalton Rushing in a combined four previous head-to-heads, two of which resulted in strikeouts.

Muncy and Rushing combined for six hits, including two homers apiece, and five RBIs on Tuesday at Colorado.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Dodgers #Yoshinobu #Yamamoto #win #rival #Giants">Deadspin | Dodgers’ Yoshinobu Yamamoto looks for first win vs. rival Giants

Apr 14, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto (18) runs off the mound after pitching against the New York Mets during the first inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Yoshinobu Yamamoto will be aiming for his first career win against the San Francisco Giants when the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers take on their rivals for the first time this season Tuesday night in the opener of a three-game series.

The Giants are expected to counter with their hottest pitcher, right-hander Landen Roupp (3-1, 2.38 ERA), who, like Yamamoto, enters the series in fine form but never has beaten his Tuesday opponent.

While the Giants enjoyed a day off Monday following a 4-5 trip through Baltimore, Cincinnati and Washington, the Dodgers salvaged a 2-2 split at Colorado with a five-home run barrage that produced a 12-3 romp over the Rockies.

Yamamoto (2-1, 2.10) hasn’t allowed more than five hits or two runs in any of his four starts and has walked a total of just three batters all season.

The right-hander was so impressive in his last outing on April 14 — a 2-1 home win over the New York Mets in which he gave up just four hits and one run with seven strikeouts in 7 2/3 innings — that Dodgers manager Dave Roberts all but labeled Yamamoto the best pitcher in the game.

“We don’t have to look any further than October to see what he’s done,” Roberts told reporters, alluding to Yamamoto’s record (7-1, 2.25 ERA) over 10 career postseason games. “The huge velocity of (Tarik) Skubal and (Paul) Skenes and what they’ve done, and rightfully so, but our guy has done it in the biggest of moments.”

Yamamoto will be making his fourth career start at Oracle Park, his most at any road site. He hasn’t gotten a decision in any of his three previous visits despite a 2.29 ERA and 23 strikeouts in 19 2/3 innings.

Overall, the 27-year-old is 0-1 with a 3.03 ERA in five career starts against the Giants.

Roupp accounted for two of the four wins on the Giants’ just-completed trip, limiting the Orioles and Reds to a total of six hits and one run over 12 innings.

His most recent outing — he threw the first six innings of a 3-0 win at Cincinnati on Thursday — helped convince new Giants manager Tony Vitello to push Tyler Mahle back a day in the team rotation, moving Roupp into the No. 3 slot behind Logan Webb and Robbie Ray.

Mahle has been rescheduled to start Wednesday’s rematch, opposed by Shohei Ohtani.

As in his last start, Roupp will be pitching the game following a loss. He acknowledged in Cincinnati the responsibility of getting the ball in that situation.

“I just wanted to go out there and stop the bleeding, and get us back on the right track,” he told reporters after the win. “I just wanted to go out there and just give the team the best chance to win.”

Roupp has not fared well against the Dodgers in four previous duels, including two starts, going 0-2 with a 7.30 ERA.

Interestingly, the 27-year-old has never allowed a hit to Max Muncy or Dalton Rushing in a combined four previous head-to-heads, two of which resulted in strikeouts.

Muncy and Rushing combined for six hits, including two homers apiece, and five RBIs on Tuesday at Colorado.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Dodgers #Yoshinobu #Yamamoto #win #rival #Giants

World number one Jannik Sinner said on Tuesday his principal aim as he prepares for the Madrid Open is to be in the “best possible shape” for Roland Garros next month as he seeks to complete a career Grand Slam.

The 24-year-old won his first major title on clay earlier this month as he downed rival Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets in the Monte Carlo Masters final.

Next he turns his attentions to the 1000-level event in Madrid as the clay-court season ramps up towards the only Grand Slam tournament Sinner has not yet won — Roland Garros, which will run from May 24 to June 7.

“I never played very well here, so let’s see how it goes this year,” Sinner, who has never got past the quarterfinal stage in the Spanish capital, told reporters the day before the Madrid Open begins.

“I’m trying to improve as a player and here might be one of the most challenging ones because of certain things (altitude and wind).”

ALSO READ | Alcaraz may skip Roland Garros rather than rush injury comeback

Despite being heavily favoured to pick up a fifth consecutive Masters title, Sinner revealed that for him “the most important is Roland Garros”.

“We try to maximise to be in the best possible shape there, but I’m here trying to do my best and then we’ll see how it goes,” he added.

Sinner lost an all-time classic Roland Garros final last year to Alcaraz, despite holding three championship points.

But the Italian said he regretted the upcoming absences of the world number two, due to Alcaraz suffering a wrist injury, and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in Madrid.

“It’s a very big pity to not have (Alcaraz) here and also Novak, the two biggest stars in tennis,” Sinner said. “We have shared since last year a lot of tournaments, but again, in my mind I also know if I want to play against Carlos it’s in the final and the way to the final is very long.”

Top seed Sinner will start his Madrid Open campaign in the second round against a yet to be determined opponent.

Published on Apr 21, 2026

#Sinner #Madrid #Masters #boost #career #Grand #Slam #chances #ahead #French #Open">

Sinner wants to use Madrid Masters to boost career Grand Slam chances ahead of French Open World number one Jannik Sinner said on Tuesday his principal aim as he prepares for the Madrid Open is to be in the “best possible shape” for Roland Garros next month as he seeks to complete a career Grand Slam.The 24-year-old won his first major title on clay earlier this month as he downed rival Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets in the Monte Carlo Masters final.Next he turns his attentions to the 1000-level event in Madrid as the clay-court season ramps up towards the only Grand Slam tournament Sinner has not yet won — Roland Garros, which will run from May 24 to June 7.“I never played very well here, so let’s see how it goes this year,” Sinner, who has never got past the quarterfinal stage in the Spanish capital, told reporters the day before the Madrid Open begins.“I’m trying to improve as a player and here might be one of the most challenging ones because of certain things (altitude and wind).”ALSO READ | Alcaraz may skip Roland Garros rather than rush injury comebackDespite being heavily favoured to pick up a fifth consecutive Masters title, Sinner revealed that for him “the most important is Roland Garros”.“We try to maximise to be in the best possible shape there, but I’m here trying to do my best and then we’ll see how it goes,” he added.Sinner lost an all-time classic Roland Garros final last year to Alcaraz, despite holding three championship points.But the Italian said he regretted the upcoming absences of the world number two, due to Alcaraz suffering a wrist injury, and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in Madrid.“It’s a very big pity to not have (Alcaraz) here and also Novak, the two biggest stars in tennis,” Sinner said. “We have shared since last year a lot of tournaments, but again, in my mind I also know if I want to play against Carlos it’s in the final and the way to the final is very long.”Top seed Sinner will start his Madrid Open campaign in the second round against a yet to be determined opponent.Published on Apr 21, 2026 #Sinner #Madrid #Masters #boost #career #Grand #Slam #chances #ahead #French #Open

mwasimuddin125 0

World number one Jannik Sinner said on Tuesday his principal aim as he prepares for the Madrid Open is to be in the “best possible shape” for Roland Garros next month as he seeks to complete a career Grand Slam.
The 24-year-old won his first major title on clay earlier this month as he downed rival Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets in the Monte Carlo Masters final.
Next he turns his attentions to the 1000-level event in Madrid as the clay-court season ramps up towards the only Grand Slam tournament Sinner has not yet won — Roland Garros, which will run from May 24 to June 7.
“I never played very well here, so let’s see how it goes this year,” Sinner, who has never got past the quarterfinal stage in the Spanish capital, told reporters the day before the Madrid Open begins.
“I’m trying to improve as a player and here might be one of the most challenging ones because of certain things (altitude and wind).”
ALSO READ | Alcaraz may skip Roland Garros rather than rush injury comeback
Despite being heavily favoured to pick up a fifth consecutive Masters title, Sinner revealed that for him “the most important is Roland Garros”.
“We try to maximise to be in the best possible shape there, but I’m here trying to do my best and then we’ll see how it goes,” he added.
Sinner lost an all-time classic Roland Garros final last year to Alcaraz, despite holding three championship points.
But the Italian said he regretted the upcoming absences of the world number two, due to Alcaraz suffering a wrist injury, and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in Madrid.
“It’s a very big pity to not have (Alcaraz) here and also Novak, the two biggest stars in tennis,” Sinner said. “We have shared since last year a lot of tournaments, but again, in my mind I also know if I want to play against Carlos it’s in the final and the way to the final is very long.”
Top seed Sinner will start his Madrid Open campaign in the second round against a yet to be determined opponent.
Published on Apr 21, 2026

#Sinner #Madrid #Masters #boost #career #Grand #Slam #chances #ahead #French #Open">Sinner wants to use Madrid Masters to boost career Grand Slam chances ahead of French Open

The 24-year-old won his first major title on clay earlier this month as he downed rival Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets in the Monte Carlo Masters final.

“I’m trying to improve as a player and here might be one of the most challenging ones because of certain things (altitude and wind).”

ALSO READ | Alcaraz may skip Roland Garros rather than rush injury comeback

Despite being heavily favoured to pick up a fifth consecutive Masters title, Sinner revealed that for him “the most important is Roland Garros”.

“We try to maximise to be in the best possible shape there, but I’m here trying to do my best and then we’ll see how it goes,” he added.

Sinner lost an all-time classic Roland Garros final last year to Alcaraz, despite holding three championship points.

But the Italian said he regretted the upcoming absences of the world number two, due to Alcaraz suffering a wrist injury, and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in Madrid.

Top seed Sinner will start his Madrid Open campaign in the second round against a yet to be determined opponent.

Published on Apr 21, 2026

#Sinner #Madrid #Masters #boost #career #Grand #Slam #chances #ahead #French #Open

Deadspin | Mariners call up Will Wilson to face Athletics, not Cole Emerson Apr 16, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; Seattle Mariners third baseman Brendan Donovan (33) hits a single during the fourth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images Seattle Mariners fans hoping for the beginning of the Cole Emerson era will have to wait. With third baseman Brendan Donovan placed on the injured list Monday with a left groin strain, many in Seattle hoped it would be Emerson who got the call when the Mariners opened a three-game series at home against the Athletics. But with the 20-year-old dealing with a sore wrist at Triple-A Tacoma, infielder Will Wilson instead got promoted from the Rainiers. “It just didn’t feel like this was the right time for that,” Mariners manager Dan Wilson said of promoting Emerson. Dan Wilson said Donovan’s injury likely is related to the sports hernia on which the veteran had offseason surgery. “This is just something that we’re going to take as cautiously as we can,” the manager said. “It’s early and we want to give him the best chance to get back and be 100%.” Will Wilson, Cleveland’s first-round pick in 2019, could make his Mariners debut Tuesday when they go against A’s left-hander Jacob Lopez. Will Wilson appeared in 34 games with the Guardians last year, hitting .192 in 78 at-bats while playing second and third base. The A’s rallied from an early three-run deficit Monday for a 6-4 victory, getting solo homers from Carlos Cortes, Nick Kurtz and Shea Langeliers to tie the score. Max Muncy’s sacrifice fly with the bases loaded in the eighth plated the go-ahead run and Lawrence Butler followed with a two-run single, moving the A’s a half-game ahead of idle Texas for first place in the American League West. “This is a good team and we have to play good baseball to be in games with them,” Athletics manager Mark Kotsay said of playing the Mariners, the defending division champions who took Toronto to Game 7 in the American League Championship Series last fall. “This series last year was a battle and tonight was the start of another grind against this team this year.” The Mariners got solo homers from Cal Raleigh and Dominic Canzone in the first two innings but allowed six unanswered runs before getting one back in the ninth. “I thought we came out of the gate really strong,” Dan Wilson said. “After that, we were able to get some traffic, just not able to get them in until a couple more hits in the ninth. That’s tough when you’re not able to add on. “… We’re giving ourselves a chance, just not able to convert. The at-bats have been better, just not able to turn those into runs tonight.” Lopez (1-1, 6.38 ERA) will be making his fifth start of the season. He took a no-decision in a 9-6 loss to visiting Texas on Thursday despite giving up just two runs on three hits over five innings. Lopez is 0-1 with a 40.50 ERA in one previous start against Seattle. The Mariners are set to counter with right-hander Luis Castillo (0-1, 5.40). Castillo took a 5-2 loss Thursday at San Diego despite giving up just one earned run – four overall – on seven hits in 5 1/3 innings. Castillo is 4-3 with a 3.02 ERA in nine career starts versus the A’s. -Field Level Media #Deadspin #Mariners #call #Wilson #face #Athletics #Cole #Emerson

#Deadspin #Mariners #call #Wilson #face #Athletics #Cole #Emerson">

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Apr 16, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; Seattle Mariners third baseman Brendan Donovan (33) hits a single during the fourth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

Seattle Mariners fans hoping for the beginning of the Cole Emerson era will have to wait.

With third baseman Brendan Donovan placed on the injured list Monday with a left groin strain, many in Seattle hoped it would be Emerson who got the call when the Mariners opened a three-game series at home against the Athletics.

But with the 20-year-old dealing with a sore wrist at Triple-A Tacoma, infielder Will Wilson instead got promoted from the Rainiers.

“It just didn’t feel like this was the right time for that,” Mariners manager Dan Wilson said of promoting Emerson.

Dan Wilson said Donovan’s injury likely is related to the sports hernia on which the veteran had offseason surgery.

“This is just something that we’re going to take as cautiously as we can,” the manager said. “It’s early and we want to give him the best chance to get back and be 100%.”

Will Wilson, Cleveland’s first-round pick in 2019, could make his Mariners debut Tuesday when they go against A’s left-hander Jacob Lopez. Will Wilson appeared in 34 games with the Guardians last year, hitting .192 in 78 at-bats while playing second and third base.

The A’s rallied from an early three-run deficit Monday for a 6-4 victory, getting solo homers from Carlos Cortes, Nick Kurtz and Shea Langeliers to tie the score. Max Muncy’s sacrifice fly with the bases loaded in the eighth plated the go-ahead run and Lawrence Butler followed with a two-run single, moving the A’s a half-game ahead of idle Texas for first place in the American League West.

“This is a good team and we have to play good baseball to be in games with them,” Athletics manager Mark Kotsay said of playing the Mariners, the defending division champions who took Toronto to Game 7 in the American League Championship Series last fall. “This series last year was a battle and tonight was the start of another grind against this team this year.”

The Mariners got solo homers from Cal Raleigh and Dominic Canzone in the first two innings but allowed six unanswered runs before getting one back in the ninth.

“I thought we came out of the gate really strong,” Dan Wilson said. “After that, we were able to get some traffic, just not able to get them in until a couple more hits in the ninth. That’s tough when you’re not able to add on.

“… We’re giving ourselves a chance, just not able to convert. The at-bats have been better, just not able to turn those into runs tonight.”

Lopez (1-1, 6.38 ERA) will be making his fifth start of the season. He took a no-decision in a 9-6 loss to visiting Texas on Thursday despite giving up just two runs on three hits over five innings. Lopez is 0-1 with a 40.50 ERA in one previous start against Seattle.

The Mariners are set to counter with right-hander Luis Castillo (0-1, 5.40). Castillo took a 5-2 loss Thursday at San Diego despite giving up just one earned run – four overall – on seven hits in 5 1/3 innings. Castillo is 4-3 with a 3.02 ERA in nine career starts versus the A’s.

-Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Mariners #call #Wilson #face #Athletics #Cole #Emerson">Deadspin | Mariners call up Will Wilson to face Athletics, not Cole Emerson

Apr 16, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; Seattle Mariners third baseman Brendan Donovan (33) hits a single during the fourth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

Seattle Mariners fans hoping for the beginning of the Cole Emerson era will have to wait.

With third baseman Brendan Donovan placed on the injured list Monday with a left groin strain, many in Seattle hoped it would be Emerson who got the call when the Mariners opened a three-game series at home against the Athletics.

But with the 20-year-old dealing with a sore wrist at Triple-A Tacoma, infielder Will Wilson instead got promoted from the Rainiers.

“It just didn’t feel like this was the right time for that,” Mariners manager Dan Wilson said of promoting Emerson.

Dan Wilson said Donovan’s injury likely is related to the sports hernia on which the veteran had offseason surgery.

“This is just something that we’re going to take as cautiously as we can,” the manager said. “It’s early and we want to give him the best chance to get back and be 100%.”

Will Wilson, Cleveland’s first-round pick in 2019, could make his Mariners debut Tuesday when they go against A’s left-hander Jacob Lopez. Will Wilson appeared in 34 games with the Guardians last year, hitting .192 in 78 at-bats while playing second and third base.

The A’s rallied from an early three-run deficit Monday for a 6-4 victory, getting solo homers from Carlos Cortes, Nick Kurtz and Shea Langeliers to tie the score. Max Muncy’s sacrifice fly with the bases loaded in the eighth plated the go-ahead run and Lawrence Butler followed with a two-run single, moving the A’s a half-game ahead of idle Texas for first place in the American League West.

“This is a good team and we have to play good baseball to be in games with them,” Athletics manager Mark Kotsay said of playing the Mariners, the defending division champions who took Toronto to Game 7 in the American League Championship Series last fall. “This series last year was a battle and tonight was the start of another grind against this team this year.”

The Mariners got solo homers from Cal Raleigh and Dominic Canzone in the first two innings but allowed six unanswered runs before getting one back in the ninth.

“I thought we came out of the gate really strong,” Dan Wilson said. “After that, we were able to get some traffic, just not able to get them in until a couple more hits in the ninth. That’s tough when you’re not able to add on.

“… We’re giving ourselves a chance, just not able to convert. The at-bats have been better, just not able to turn those into runs tonight.”

Lopez (1-1, 6.38 ERA) will be making his fifth start of the season. He took a no-decision in a 9-6 loss to visiting Texas on Thursday despite giving up just two runs on three hits over five innings. Lopez is 0-1 with a 40.50 ERA in one previous start against Seattle.

The Mariners are set to counter with right-hander Luis Castillo (0-1, 5.40). Castillo took a 5-2 loss Thursday at San Diego despite giving up just one earned run – four overall – on seven hits in 5 1/3 innings. Castillo is 4-3 with a 3.02 ERA in nine career starts versus the A’s.

-Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Mariners #call #Wilson #face #Athletics #Cole #Emerson

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