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How Lamine Yamal creates space and shapes Spain’s attack at the World Cup Lamine Yamal: jersey number 19, 18 years old, left-footed, with the world at his feet.The first three descriptions could just as easily apply to a certain Argentine who arrived on the world’s biggest stage two decades ago.But they arrived at vastly different points in their careers.When Lionel Messi came off the bench against Serbia and Montenegro in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, sporting his shaggy, long-haired look, he had made just 34 senior appearances for Barcelona and scored nine goals. Those figures pale beside Yamal’s. By the time the Spanish youngster arrived at his first World Cup, he had already made more than four times as many senior club appearances as Messi had before his debut, scoring 49 goals along the way while providing 52 assists.The tournament in North America, then, appeared perfectly set up for Yamal to begin building his legacy. Things, however, have not quite fallen into place. The guile, trickery and eagerness to take on his man at any given moment are still there. Just ask Austria’s Konrad Laimer, who was nutmegged thrice in the first half during the Round-of-32 clash.But the “end product”, as pundits and their at-home imitators like to call it, has been lacking.Injuries and the resulting reduction in minutes have had their effect, but even so, Spain has largely cruised through the tournament apart from that opening blip against a valiant Cape Verde. Despite his lack of cutting edge in this tournament, Yamal has managed to find ways to tilt games in Spain’s favour.In the 352 minutes he has featured so far, Yamal has completed 23 take-ons, the joint-most in the tournament with Brazil’s Vinicius Jr. (23), who has played 154 more minutes. Moreover, his 6.4 ball progressions per 90 (total 25) put him inside the top four per cent of all players at the quadrennial tournament, with only Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius having more (26 each).With each duel won, the pitch’s centre of gravity slowly shifts towards him, leaving Spain’s central attacking players, such as Dani Olmo and Pedri, more space to work with. First, one man tries his luck. Then there are two. Before long, an entire flank is occupied with trying to contain the teenager.That, in turn, frees Spain’s left side to be more adventurous, from Marc Cucurella at the back to Alex Baena in the final third. With Yamal’s counterpart on that side, Nico Williams, still yet to fully recover from injury, Baena, who lacks the explosiveness of the youngster, manages to get enough breathing room to fashion chances.Against Austria, all three goals scored by Spain were created from the left wing, with Cucurella providing two assists and Baena one. In fact, in both of La Roja’s knockout fixtures, the left side has produced a higher percentage of progressive passes.Spain’s progressive passes against Austria and Portugal. | Photo Credit: FIFAPHYSpain’s progressive passes against Austria and Portugal. | Photo Credit: FIFAPHYOn Yamal’s side of the pitch, containing him has proved difficult even for some of the world’s best defenders. Against Portugal, he came up against Nuno Mendes, arguably one of the finest left-backs at the tournament, and stretched him to his limits.Mendes was eventually forced off early in the second half after picking up an injury during one final defensive effort that prevented Yamal’s cross from reaching a teammate.After the game, Spain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, heaped praise on Yamal, asserting that he “generated a lot of fear” in the opponent.“For me, Lamine has played one of the most important matches of his life. Beyond whether he was brilliant or not, for me, it has been one of the matches that will help him grow the most. When he had the ball, he always created doubt and uncertainty for the opponent,” ‌de la Fuente said.Nelson Semedo, who replaced Mendes, found Yamal harder to contain, forcing Portuguese left winger Joao Felix to contribute more defensively. Consequently, Portugal’s attack suffered, with Felix failing to register a single shot or cross in his 71 minutes on the pitch, most of which he spent away from the zone he was supposed to dominate.Joao Felix’s heat map against Spain.  | Photo Credit: FIFAPHYJoao Felix’s heat map against Spain.  | Photo Credit: FIFAPHYOver the years, many have been touted as the next Messi, and perhaps none have had a start like Yamal’s. But for now, those comparisons can wait. Spain is all that matters to Yamal, and with his noodle hair and silky moves, he still has the world at his feet.The “end product” may yet arrive at this World Cup. But even if it does not, Yamal has already shown why he remains fundamental to Spain’s pursuit of a second title.Published on Jul 10, 2026 #Lamine #Yamal #creates #space #shapes #Spains #attack #World #Cup

How Lamine Yamal creates space and shapes Spain’s attack at the World Cup

Lamine Yamal: jersey number 19, 18 years old, left-footed, with the world at his feet.

The first three descriptions could just as easily apply to a certain Argentine who arrived on the world’s biggest stage two decades ago.

But they arrived at vastly different points in their careers.

When Lionel Messi came off the bench against Serbia and Montenegro in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, sporting his shaggy, long-haired look, he had made just 34 senior appearances for Barcelona and scored nine goals. Those figures pale beside Yamal’s. By the time the Spanish youngster arrived at his first World Cup, he had already made more than four times as many senior club appearances as Messi had before his debut, scoring 49 goals along the way while providing 52 assists.

The tournament in North America, then, appeared perfectly set up for Yamal to begin building his legacy. Things, however, have not quite fallen into place. The guile, trickery and eagerness to take on his man at any given moment are still there. Just ask Austria’s Konrad Laimer, who was nutmegged thrice in the first half during the Round-of-32 clash.

But the “end product”, as pundits and their at-home imitators like to call it, has been lacking.

Injuries and the resulting reduction in minutes have had their effect, but even so, Spain has largely cruised through the tournament apart from that opening blip against a valiant Cape Verde. Despite his lack of cutting edge in this tournament, Yamal has managed to find ways to tilt games in Spain’s favour.

In the 352 minutes he has featured so far, Yamal has completed 23 take-ons, the joint-most in the tournament with Brazil’s Vinicius Jr. (23), who has played 154 more minutes. Moreover, his 6.4 ball progressions per 90 (total 25) put him inside the top four per cent of all players at the quadrennial tournament, with only Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius having more (26 each).

With each duel won, the pitch’s centre of gravity slowly shifts towards him, leaving Spain’s central attacking players, such as Dani Olmo and Pedri, more space to work with. First, one man tries his luck. Then there are two. Before long, an entire flank is occupied with trying to contain the teenager.

That, in turn, frees Spain’s left side to be more adventurous, from Marc Cucurella at the back to Alex Baena in the final third. With Yamal’s counterpart on that side, Nico Williams, still yet to fully recover from injury, Baena, who lacks the explosiveness of the youngster, manages to get enough breathing room to fashion chances.

Against Austria, all three goals scored by Spain were created from the left wing, with Cucurella providing two assists and Baena one. In fact, in both of La Roja’s knockout fixtures, the left side has produced a higher percentage of progressive passes.

How Lamine Yamal creates space and shapes Spain’s attack at the World Cup Lamine Yamal: jersey number 19, 18 years old, left-footed, with the world at his feet.The first three descriptions could just as easily apply to a certain Argentine who arrived on the world’s biggest stage two decades ago.But they arrived at vastly different points in their careers.When Lionel Messi came off the bench against Serbia and Montenegro in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, sporting his shaggy, long-haired look, he had made just 34 senior appearances for Barcelona and scored nine goals. Those figures pale beside Yamal’s. By the time the Spanish youngster arrived at his first World Cup, he had already made more than four times as many senior club appearances as Messi had before his debut, scoring 49 goals along the way while providing 52 assists.The tournament in North America, then, appeared perfectly set up for Yamal to begin building his legacy. Things, however, have not quite fallen into place. The guile, trickery and eagerness to take on his man at any given moment are still there. Just ask Austria’s Konrad Laimer, who was nutmegged thrice in the first half during the Round-of-32 clash.But the “end product”, as pundits and their at-home imitators like to call it, has been lacking.Injuries and the resulting reduction in minutes have had their effect, but even so, Spain has largely cruised through the tournament apart from that opening blip against a valiant Cape Verde. Despite his lack of cutting edge in this tournament, Yamal has managed to find ways to tilt games in Spain’s favour.In the 352 minutes he has featured so far, Yamal has completed 23 take-ons, the joint-most in the tournament with Brazil’s Vinicius Jr. (23), who has played 154 more minutes. Moreover, his 6.4 ball progressions per 90 (total 25) put him inside the top four per cent of all players at the quadrennial tournament, with only Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius having more (26 each).With each duel won, the pitch’s centre of gravity slowly shifts towards him, leaving Spain’s central attacking players, such as Dani Olmo and Pedri, more space to work with. First, one man tries his luck. Then there are two. Before long, an entire flank is occupied with trying to contain the teenager.That, in turn, frees Spain’s left side to be more adventurous, from Marc Cucurella at the back to Alex Baena in the final third. With Yamal’s counterpart on that side, Nico Williams, still yet to fully recover from injury, Baena, who lacks the explosiveness of the youngster, manages to get enough breathing room to fashion chances.Against Austria, all three goals scored by Spain were created from the left wing, with Cucurella providing two assists and Baena one. In fact, in both of La Roja’s knockout fixtures, the left side has produced a higher percentage of progressive passes.Spain’s progressive passes against Austria and Portugal. | Photo Credit: FIFAPHYSpain’s progressive passes against Austria and Portugal. | Photo Credit: FIFAPHYOn Yamal’s side of the pitch, containing him has proved difficult even for some of the world’s best defenders. Against Portugal, he came up against Nuno Mendes, arguably one of the finest left-backs at the tournament, and stretched him to his limits.Mendes was eventually forced off early in the second half after picking up an injury during one final defensive effort that prevented Yamal’s cross from reaching a teammate.After the game, Spain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, heaped praise on Yamal, asserting that he “generated a lot of fear” in the opponent.“For me, Lamine has played one of the most important matches of his life. Beyond whether he was brilliant or not, for me, it has been one of the matches that will help him grow the most. When he had the ball, he always created doubt and uncertainty for the opponent,” ‌de la Fuente said.Nelson Semedo, who replaced Mendes, found Yamal harder to contain, forcing Portuguese left winger Joao Felix to contribute more defensively. Consequently, Portugal’s attack suffered, with Felix failing to register a single shot or cross in his 71 minutes on the pitch, most of which he spent away from the zone he was supposed to dominate.Joao Felix’s heat map against Spain.  | Photo Credit: FIFAPHYJoao Felix’s heat map against Spain.  | Photo Credit: FIFAPHYOver the years, many have been touted as the next Messi, and perhaps none have had a start like Yamal’s. But for now, those comparisons can wait. Spain is all that matters to Yamal, and with his noodle hair and silky moves, he still has the world at his feet.The “end product” may yet arrive at this World Cup. But even if it does not, Yamal has already shown why he remains fundamental to Spain’s pursuit of a second title.Published on Jul 10, 2026 #Lamine #Yamal #creates #space #shapes #Spains #attack #World #Cup

Spain’s progressive passes against Austria and Portugal. | Photo Credit: FIFAPHY

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Spain’s progressive passes against Austria and Portugal. | Photo Credit: FIFAPHY

On Yamal’s side of the pitch, containing him has proved difficult even for some of the world’s best defenders. Against Portugal, he came up against Nuno Mendes, arguably one of the finest left-backs at the tournament, and stretched him to his limits.

Mendes was eventually forced off early in the second half after picking up an injury during one final defensive effort that prevented Yamal’s cross from reaching a teammate.

After the game, Spain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, heaped praise on Yamal, asserting that he “generated a lot of fear” in the opponent.

“For me, Lamine has played one of the most important matches of his life. Beyond whether he was brilliant or not, for me, it has been one of the matches that will help him grow the most. When he had the ball, he always created doubt and uncertainty for the opponent,” ‌de la Fuente said.

Nelson Semedo, who replaced Mendes, found Yamal harder to contain, forcing Portuguese left winger Joao Felix to contribute more defensively. Consequently, Portugal’s attack suffered, with Felix failing to register a single shot or cross in his 71 minutes on the pitch, most of which he spent away from the zone he was supposed to dominate.

Joao Felix’s heat map against Spain. 

Joao Felix’s heat map against Spain.  | Photo Credit: FIFAPHY

lightbox-info

Joao Felix’s heat map against Spain.  | Photo Credit: FIFAPHY

Over the years, many have been touted as the next Messi, and perhaps none have had a start like Yamal’s. But for now, those comparisons can wait. Spain is all that matters to Yamal, and with his noodle hair and silky moves, he still has the world at his feet.

The “end product” may yet arrive at this World Cup. But even if it does not, Yamal has already shown why he remains fundamental to Spain’s pursuit of a second title.

Published on Jul 10, 2026

#Lamine #Yamal #creates #space #shapes #Spains #attack #World #Cup

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Lamine Yamal: jersey number 19, 18 years old, left-footed, with the world at his feet.

The first three descriptions could just as easily apply to a certain Argentine who arrived on the world’s biggest stage two decades ago.

But they arrived at vastly different points in their careers.

When Lionel Messi came off the bench against Serbia and Montenegro in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, sporting his shaggy, long-haired look, he had made just 34 senior appearances for Barcelona and scored nine goals. Those figures pale beside Yamal’s. By the time the Spanish youngster arrived at his first World Cup, he had already made more than four times as many senior club appearances as Messi had before his debut, scoring 49 goals along the way while providing 52 assists.

The tournament in North America, then, appeared perfectly set up for Yamal to begin building his legacy. Things, however, have not quite fallen into place. The guile, trickery and eagerness to take on his man at any given moment are still there. Just ask Austria’s Konrad Laimer, who was nutmegged thrice in the first half during the Round-of-32 clash.

But the “end product”, as pundits and their at-home imitators like to call it, has been lacking.

Injuries and the resulting reduction in minutes have had their effect, but even so, Spain has largely cruised through the tournament apart from that opening blip against a valiant Cape Verde. Despite his lack of cutting edge in this tournament, Yamal has managed to find ways to tilt games in Spain’s favour.

In the 352 minutes he has featured so far, Yamal has completed 23 take-ons, the joint-most in the tournament with Brazil’s Vinicius Jr. (23), who has played 154 more minutes. Moreover, his 6.4 ball progressions per 90 (total 25) put him inside the top four per cent of all players at the quadrennial tournament, with only Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius having more (26 each).

With each duel won, the pitch’s centre of gravity slowly shifts towards him, leaving Spain’s central attacking players, such as Dani Olmo and Pedri, more space to work with. First, one man tries his luck. Then there are two. Before long, an entire flank is occupied with trying to contain the teenager.

That, in turn, frees Spain’s left side to be more adventurous, from Marc Cucurella at the back to Alex Baena in the final third. With Yamal’s counterpart on that side, Nico Williams, still yet to fully recover from injury, Baena, who lacks the explosiveness of the youngster, manages to get enough breathing room to fashion chances.

Against Austria, all three goals scored by Spain were created from the left wing, with Cucurella providing two assists and Baena one. In fact, in both of La Roja’s knockout fixtures, the left side has produced a higher percentage of progressive passes.

Spain’s progressive passes against Austria and Portugal.
| Photo Credit:
FIFAPHY

lightbox-info

Spain’s progressive passes against Austria and Portugal.
| Photo Credit:
FIFAPHY

On Yamal’s side of the pitch, containing him has proved difficult even for some of the world’s best defenders. Against Portugal, he came up against Nuno Mendes, arguably one of the finest left-backs at the tournament, and stretched him to his limits.

Mendes was eventually forced off early in the second half after picking up an injury during one final defensive effort that prevented Yamal’s cross from reaching a teammate.

After the game, Spain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, heaped praise on Yamal, asserting that he “generated a lot of fear” in the opponent.

“For me, Lamine has played one of the most important matches of his life. Beyond whether he was brilliant or not, for me, it has been one of the matches that will help him grow the most. When he had the ball, he always created doubt and uncertainty for the opponent,” ‌de la Fuente said.

Nelson Semedo, who replaced Mendes, found Yamal harder to contain, forcing Portuguese left winger Joao Felix to contribute more defensively. Consequently, Portugal’s attack suffered, with Felix failing to register a single shot or cross in his 71 minutes on the pitch, most of which he spent away from the zone he was supposed to dominate.

Joao Felix’s heat map against Spain. 

Joao Felix’s heat map against Spain. 
| Photo Credit:
FIFAPHY

lightbox-info

Joao Felix’s heat map against Spain. 
| Photo Credit:
FIFAPHY

Over the years, many have been touted as the next Messi, and perhaps none have had a start like Yamal’s. But for now, those comparisons can wait. Spain is all that matters to Yamal, and with his noodle hair and silky moves, he still has the world at his feet.

The “end product” may yet arrive at this World Cup. But even if it does not, Yamal has already shown why he remains fundamental to Spain’s pursuit of a second title.

Published on Jul 10, 2026

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The 2026 MLB Trade Deadline is just a few days away.

And the rumors are heating up.

The Deadline arrives at 6:00 p.m. Eastern on Monday, August 3, but we are already seeing some deals being made, including one between the surging Boston Red Sox and the Washington Nationals. Let’s take our first look at the MLB rumor mill as we get ready for this year’s MLB Trade Deadline.

Marlins open to offers on “several” players

While the Miami Marlins finished seven games above .500 in the first half of the season, they lost the final three games before the All-Star Break, and with eight losses to open the second half, that 12 game losing streak has dropped the Marlins down the NL East standings. Wins the past few nights have moved them back above .500 on the year, but Miami could be creative sellers at the deadline.

Or at least entertain offers on cost-controlled players over these next few days.

Bats remain the major options. According to The Athletic the Marlins will at least “listen” to offers on controllable bats, including shortstop Otto Lopez, 2B Xavier Edwards, and OF Heriberto Hernández. Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported on Tuesday that the Marlins are also open to trading C/OF/DH Liam Hicks, due in large part to the emergence of young catcher Joe Mack.

Speaking of Mack, the rookie catcher is one of a few Marlins that are reportedly off limits, including pitchers Sandy Alcantara, Max Meyer, and Eury Pérez.

The Minnesota Twins are one game above .500, with the MLB Trade Deadline fast approaching.

But unlike the Marlins, who were 8.5 games out of first place in the division on Thursday morning, the Twins sit just three games out of first in the AL Central, and just 1.5 games behind the second-place Cleveland Guardians in both the division and the Wild Card chase.

Given that, the Twins are officially buyers at the deadline, according to general manager Jeremy Zoll. In a story on The Athletic filed on Tuesday night, Zoll made the case for Minnesota, and highlighted an improved bullpen as a focus at the deadline.

“All along, we were optimistic we were going to be in this spot to be able to add,” Zoll said. “We’re active on the phones and in touch across the board in trying to do everything we can to find ways to improve the team.”

Zoll also indicated that the recent play from Minnesota — the Twins entered Wednesday on a three-game winning streak — made the decision easier.

“We’re really excited about how the team has played over this last stretch,” Zoll said. “We’re really encouraged about that. In turn, we’re going to use this next stretch to do everything we can to find ways to improve the club and continue to execute on that goal and make it a reality.”

Catching market heating up

Pitching is always a focus at the MLB Trade Deadline, and a potential deal involving Tarik Skubal is at the front of many shopping lists around the league.

But catching has become a focus for several teams looking to bolster their playoff chances, according to a report from Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. According to the long-time MLB insider six teams — the Red Sox, the Yankees, the Rays, the White Sox, the Rangers, and the Dodgers — could be looking for help behind the plate.

One problem, according to one source?

There might not be enough good catchers to go around.

“There are about a half-dozen teams looking for catching help,” one NL executive said to Feinsand. “There just aren’t a half-dozen catchers out there to trade for.”

As noted in Feinsand’s report, the name most often mentioned is that of Ryan Jeffers, who is on an expiring contract. But as mentioned above, the Twins are looking to buy, not sell, at the deadline, which could complicate such a move. Other options include Hunter Goodman with the Colorado Rockies — but he is under club control for the next three years, which increases the asking price dramatically — and Adley Rutschman, although moving him from Baltimore would mean the Orioles would “concede” the AL Wild Card race, where Baltimore sits just 2.5 games off the pace.
Then there is Liam Hicks, who the Marlins are reportedly open to trading given the emergence of Joe Mack. While he has four more years of club control, Mack’s development coupled with the growth of Triple-A catcher Agustín Ramirez makes moving Hicks easier for Miami.

Boston looking for SS help

Red Sox fans were ready to write off the season back in June, after losing two-out-of-three to Colorado dropped Boston to 32-46, and 15.5 games out in the division.

But a 15-game winning streak changed everything, and with a win Wednesday night against the Athletics, the Red Sox are now five games above .500, just seven back in the AL East, and if the playoffs were to begin today, Boston would be in as a Wild Card team.

That rapid turnaround has seen the Red Sox emerge as buyers at the MLB Trade Deadline and they already made one move, acquiring infielder Curtis Mead in a deal with the Washington Nationals. But he was hit by a pitch in his Boston debut, and is headed to the IL with a broken wrist.

Zach Neto is a popular name linked to Boston, but the Los Angeles Angels might be reluctant to move the 25-year-old infielder who is under team control for the next three-plus seasons. Other options include Houston’s Jeremy Peña, Miami’s Otto Lopez, and perhaps another deal with Washington for CJ Abrams.

The latest on Tarik Skubal

The Detroit Tigers ace took the bump on Wednesday for his last start ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline.

Will it be his final start for the Tigers?

Detroit is in a fascinating position. At the moment the Tigers are just 4.5 games out of the final AL Wild Card spot, and having an ace like Skubal down the stretch could ease a playoff push.

But with Skubal set to hit free agency — and expected to look for a contract in the $400 million range this offseason — the Tigers might look to get something in return for him now, rather than see him walk in free agency.

It is a decision that could shape not just Detroit, but all of baseball, for the future.

MLB.com put together a roundtable with Mark Feinsand, Tigers beat writer Jason Beck, and several other beat writers for teams that could put together an offer for the ace. According to Beck, Detroit would prioritize young arms in any such deal. “[The] Tigers will look for young pitching in pretty much any deal. They have good young arms in Troy Melton, Jackson Jobe, Reese Olson and Ty Madden, but their farm system is thin on projectable starting pitchers,” wrote Beck.

The most intriguing team, at least according to this writer, is Milwaukee. As noted by Brewers beat writer Adam McCalvy, while Milwaukee is one of those teams that “must stockpile prospects, especially position player prospects, in order to contend year after year” the Brewers are “very interested” in Skubal.

Pairing Skubal with Jacob Misiorowski would give Milwaukee one heck of a one-two combination at the top of the rotation down the stretch, and into the playoffs.

It is worth noting that Skubal notched his 1,000th career strikeout on Wednesday, so if it was indeed his last outing for the Tigers, he will go out in style.

#MLB #trade #rumors #Twins #Red #Sox #Tarik #Skubal #ahead #Mondays #deadline">MLB trade rumors on Twins, Red Sox, Tarik Skubal, and more ahead of Monday’s deadline The 2026 MLB Trade Deadline is just a few days away.And the rumors are heating up.The Deadline arrives at 6:00 p.m. Eastern on Monday, August 3, but we are already seeing some deals being made, including one between the surging Boston Red Sox and the Washington Nationals. Let’s take our first look at the MLB rumor mill as we get ready for this year’s MLB Trade Deadline.Marlins open to offers on “several” playersWhile the Miami Marlins finished seven games above .500 in the first half of the season, they lost the final three games before the All-Star Break, and with eight losses to open the second half, that 12 game losing streak has dropped the Marlins down the NL East standings. Wins the past few nights have moved them back above .500 on the year, but Miami could be creative sellers at the deadline.Or at least entertain offers on cost-controlled players over these next few days.Bats remain the major options. According to The Athletic the Marlins will at least “listen” to offers on controllable bats, including shortstop Otto Lopez, 2B Xavier Edwards, and OF Heriberto Hernández. Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported on Tuesday that the Marlins are also open to trading C/OF/DH Liam Hicks, due in large part to the emergence of young catcher Joe Mack.Speaking of Mack, the rookie catcher is one of a few Marlins that are reportedly off limits, including pitchers Sandy Alcantara, Max Meyer, and Eury Pérez.The Minnesota Twins are one game above .500, with the MLB Trade Deadline fast approaching.But unlike the Marlins, who were 8.5 games out of first place in the division on Thursday morning, the Twins sit just three games out of first in the AL Central, and just 1.5 games behind the second-place Cleveland Guardians in both the division and the Wild Card chase.Given that, the Twins are officially buyers at the deadline, according to general manager Jeremy Zoll. In a story on The Athletic filed on Tuesday night, Zoll made the case for Minnesota, and highlighted an improved bullpen as a focus at the deadline.“All along, we were optimistic we were going to be in this spot to be able to add,” Zoll said. “We’re active on the phones and in touch across the board in trying to do everything we can to find ways to improve the team.”Zoll also indicated that the recent play from Minnesota — the Twins entered Wednesday on a three-game winning streak — made the decision easier.“We’re really excited about how the team has played over this last stretch,” Zoll said. “We’re really encouraged about that. In turn, we’re going to use this next stretch to do everything we can to find ways to improve the club and continue to execute on that goal and make it a reality.”Catching market heating upPitching is always a focus at the MLB Trade Deadline, and a potential deal involving Tarik Skubal is at the front of many shopping lists around the league.But catching has become a focus for several teams looking to bolster their playoff chances, according to a report from Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. According to the long-time MLB insider six teams — the Red Sox, the Yankees, the Rays, the White Sox, the Rangers, and the Dodgers — could be looking for help behind the plate.One problem, according to one source?There might not be enough good catchers to go around.“There are about a half-dozen teams looking for catching help,” one NL executive said to Feinsand. “There just aren’t a half-dozen catchers out there to trade for.”As noted in Feinsand’s report, the name most often mentioned is that of Ryan Jeffers, who is on an expiring contract. But as mentioned above, the Twins are looking to buy, not sell, at the deadline, which could complicate such a move. Other options include Hunter Goodman with the Colorado Rockies — but he is under club control for the next three years, which increases the asking price dramatically — and Adley Rutschman, although moving him from Baltimore would mean the Orioles would “concede” the AL Wild Card race, where Baltimore sits just 2.5 games off the pace.Then there is Liam Hicks, who the Marlins are reportedly open to trading given the emergence of Joe Mack. While he has four more years of club control, Mack’s development coupled with the growth of Triple-A catcher Agustín Ramirez makes moving Hicks easier for Miami.Boston looking for SS helpRed Sox fans were ready to write off the season back in June, after losing two-out-of-three to Colorado dropped Boston to 32-46, and 15.5 games out in the division.But a 15-game winning streak changed everything, and with a win Wednesday night against the Athletics, the Red Sox are now five games above .500, just seven back in the AL East, and if the playoffs were to begin today, Boston would be in as a Wild Card team.That rapid turnaround has seen the Red Sox emerge as buyers at the MLB Trade Deadline and they already made one move, acquiring infielder Curtis Mead in a deal with the Washington Nationals. But he was hit by a pitch in his Boston debut, and is headed to the IL with a broken wrist.Zach Neto is a popular name linked to Boston, but the Los Angeles Angels might be reluctant to move the 25-year-old infielder who is under team control for the next three-plus seasons. Other options include Houston’s Jeremy Peña, Miami’s Otto Lopez, and perhaps another deal with Washington for CJ Abrams.The latest on Tarik SkubalThe Detroit Tigers ace took the bump on Wednesday for his last start ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline.Will it be his final start for the Tigers?Detroit is in a fascinating position. At the moment the Tigers are just 4.5 games out of the final AL Wild Card spot, and having an ace like Skubal down the stretch could ease a playoff push.But with Skubal set to hit free agency — and expected to look for a contract in the $400 million range this offseason — the Tigers might look to get something in return for him now, rather than see him walk in free agency.It is a decision that could shape not just Detroit, but all of baseball, for the future.MLB.com put together a roundtable with Mark Feinsand, Tigers beat writer Jason Beck, and several other beat writers for teams that could put together an offer for the ace. According to Beck, Detroit would prioritize young arms in any such deal. “[The] Tigers will look for young pitching in pretty much any deal. They have good young arms in Troy Melton, Jackson Jobe, Reese Olson and Ty Madden, but their farm system is thin on projectable starting pitchers,” wrote Beck.The most intriguing team, at least according to this writer, is Milwaukee. As noted by Brewers beat writer Adam McCalvy, while Milwaukee is one of those teams that “must stockpile prospects, especially position player prospects, in order to contend year after year” the Brewers are “very interested” in Skubal.Pairing Skubal with Jacob Misiorowski would give Milwaukee one heck of a one-two combination at the top of the rotation down the stretch, and into the playoffs.It is worth noting that Skubal notched his 1,000th career strikeout on Wednesday, so if it was indeed his last outing for the Tigers, he will go out in style. #MLB #trade #rumors #Twins #Red #Sox #Tarik #Skubal #ahead #Mondays #deadline

reported on Tuesday that the Marlins are also open to trading C/OF/DH Liam Hicks, due in large part to the emergence of young catcher Joe Mack.

Speaking of Mack, the rookie catcher is one of a few Marlins that are reportedly off limits, including pitchers Sandy Alcantara, Max Meyer, and Eury Pérez.

The Minnesota Twins are one game above .500, with the MLB Trade Deadline fast approaching.

But unlike the Marlins, who were 8.5 games out of first place in the division on Thursday morning, the Twins sit just three games out of first in the AL Central, and just 1.5 games behind the second-place Cleveland Guardians in both the division and the Wild Card chase.

Given that, the Twins are officially buyers at the deadline, according to general manager Jeremy Zoll. In a story on The Athletic filed on Tuesday night, Zoll made the case for Minnesota, and highlighted an improved bullpen as a focus at the deadline.

“All along, we were optimistic we were going to be in this spot to be able to add,” Zoll said. “We’re active on the phones and in touch across the board in trying to do everything we can to find ways to improve the team.”

Zoll also indicated that the recent play from Minnesota — the Twins entered Wednesday on a three-game winning streak — made the decision easier.

“We’re really excited about how the team has played over this last stretch,” Zoll said. “We’re really encouraged about that. In turn, we’re going to use this next stretch to do everything we can to find ways to improve the club and continue to execute on that goal and make it a reality.”

Catching market heating up

Pitching is always a focus at the MLB Trade Deadline, and a potential deal involving Tarik Skubal is at the front of many shopping lists around the league.

But catching has become a focus for several teams looking to bolster their playoff chances, according to a report from Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. According to the long-time MLB insider six teams — the Red Sox, the Yankees, the Rays, the White Sox, the Rangers, and the Dodgers — could be looking for help behind the plate.

One problem, according to one source?

There might not be enough good catchers to go around.

“There are about a half-dozen teams looking for catching help,” one NL executive said to Feinsand. “There just aren’t a half-dozen catchers out there to trade for.”

As noted in Feinsand’s report, the name most often mentioned is that of Ryan Jeffers, who is on an expiring contract. But as mentioned above, the Twins are looking to buy, not sell, at the deadline, which could complicate such a move. Other options include Hunter Goodman with the Colorado Rockies — but he is under club control for the next three years, which increases the asking price dramatically — and Adley Rutschman, although moving him from Baltimore would mean the Orioles would “concede” the AL Wild Card race, where Baltimore sits just 2.5 games off the pace.
Then there is Liam Hicks, who the Marlins are reportedly open to trading given the emergence of Joe Mack. While he has four more years of club control, Mack’s development coupled with the growth of Triple-A catcher Agustín Ramirez makes moving Hicks easier for Miami.

Boston looking for SS help

Red Sox fans were ready to write off the season back in June, after losing two-out-of-three to Colorado dropped Boston to 32-46, and 15.5 games out in the division.

But a 15-game winning streak changed everything, and with a win Wednesday night against the Athletics, the Red Sox are now five games above .500, just seven back in the AL East, and if the playoffs were to begin today, Boston would be in as a Wild Card team.

That rapid turnaround has seen the Red Sox emerge as buyers at the MLB Trade Deadline and they already made one move, acquiring infielder Curtis Mead in a deal with the Washington Nationals. But he was hit by a pitch in his Boston debut, and is headed to the IL with a broken wrist.

Zach Neto is a popular name linked to Boston, but the Los Angeles Angels might be reluctant to move the 25-year-old infielder who is under team control for the next three-plus seasons. Other options include Houston’s Jeremy Peña, Miami’s Otto Lopez, and perhaps another deal with Washington for CJ Abrams.

The latest on Tarik Skubal

The Detroit Tigers ace took the bump on Wednesday for his last start ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline.

Will it be his final start for the Tigers?

Detroit is in a fascinating position. At the moment the Tigers are just 4.5 games out of the final AL Wild Card spot, and having an ace like Skubal down the stretch could ease a playoff push.

But with Skubal set to hit free agency — and expected to look for a contract in the $400 million range this offseason — the Tigers might look to get something in return for him now, rather than see him walk in free agency.

It is a decision that could shape not just Detroit, but all of baseball, for the future.

MLB.com put together a roundtable with Mark Feinsand, Tigers beat writer Jason Beck, and several other beat writers for teams that could put together an offer for the ace. According to Beck, Detroit would prioritize young arms in any such deal. “[The] Tigers will look for young pitching in pretty much any deal. They have good young arms in Troy Melton, Jackson Jobe, Reese Olson and Ty Madden, but their farm system is thin on projectable starting pitchers,” wrote Beck.

The most intriguing team, at least according to this writer, is Milwaukee. As noted by Brewers beat writer Adam McCalvy, while Milwaukee is one of those teams that “must stockpile prospects, especially position player prospects, in order to contend year after year” the Brewers are “very interested” in Skubal.

Pairing Skubal with Jacob Misiorowski would give Milwaukee one heck of a one-two combination at the top of the rotation down the stretch, and into the playoffs.

It is worth noting that Skubal notched his 1,000th career strikeout on Wednesday, so if it was indeed his last outing for the Tigers, he will go out in style.

#MLB #trade #rumors #Twins #Red #Sox #Tarik #Skubal #ahead #Mondays #deadline">MLB trade rumors on Twins, Red Sox, Tarik Skubal, and more ahead of Monday’s deadline

The 2026 MLB Trade Deadline is just a few days away.

And the rumors are heating up.

The Deadline arrives at 6:00 p.m. Eastern on Monday, August 3, but we are already seeing some deals being made, including one between the surging Boston Red Sox and the Washington Nationals. Let’s take our first look at the MLB rumor mill as we get ready for this year’s MLB Trade Deadline.

Marlins open to offers on “several” players

While the Miami Marlins finished seven games above .500 in the first half of the season, they lost the final three games before the All-Star Break, and with eight losses to open the second half, that 12 game losing streak has dropped the Marlins down the NL East standings. Wins the past few nights have moved them back above .500 on the year, but Miami could be creative sellers at the deadline.

Or at least entertain offers on cost-controlled players over these next few days.

Bats remain the major options. According to The Athletic the Marlins will at least “listen” to offers on controllable bats, including shortstop Otto Lopez, 2B Xavier Edwards, and OF Heriberto Hernández. Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported on Tuesday that the Marlins are also open to trading C/OF/DH Liam Hicks, due in large part to the emergence of young catcher Joe Mack.

Speaking of Mack, the rookie catcher is one of a few Marlins that are reportedly off limits, including pitchers Sandy Alcantara, Max Meyer, and Eury Pérez.

The Minnesota Twins are one game above .500, with the MLB Trade Deadline fast approaching.

But unlike the Marlins, who were 8.5 games out of first place in the division on Thursday morning, the Twins sit just three games out of first in the AL Central, and just 1.5 games behind the second-place Cleveland Guardians in both the division and the Wild Card chase.

Given that, the Twins are officially buyers at the deadline, according to general manager Jeremy Zoll. In a story on The Athletic filed on Tuesday night, Zoll made the case for Minnesota, and highlighted an improved bullpen as a focus at the deadline.

“All along, we were optimistic we were going to be in this spot to be able to add,” Zoll said. “We’re active on the phones and in touch across the board in trying to do everything we can to find ways to improve the team.”

Zoll also indicated that the recent play from Minnesota — the Twins entered Wednesday on a three-game winning streak — made the decision easier.

“We’re really excited about how the team has played over this last stretch,” Zoll said. “We’re really encouraged about that. In turn, we’re going to use this next stretch to do everything we can to find ways to improve the club and continue to execute on that goal and make it a reality.”

Catching market heating up

Pitching is always a focus at the MLB Trade Deadline, and a potential deal involving Tarik Skubal is at the front of many shopping lists around the league.

But catching has become a focus for several teams looking to bolster their playoff chances, according to a report from Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. According to the long-time MLB insider six teams — the Red Sox, the Yankees, the Rays, the White Sox, the Rangers, and the Dodgers — could be looking for help behind the plate.

One problem, according to one source?

There might not be enough good catchers to go around.

“There are about a half-dozen teams looking for catching help,” one NL executive said to Feinsand. “There just aren’t a half-dozen catchers out there to trade for.”

As noted in Feinsand’s report, the name most often mentioned is that of Ryan Jeffers, who is on an expiring contract. But as mentioned above, the Twins are looking to buy, not sell, at the deadline, which could complicate such a move. Other options include Hunter Goodman with the Colorado Rockies — but he is under club control for the next three years, which increases the asking price dramatically — and Adley Rutschman, although moving him from Baltimore would mean the Orioles would “concede” the AL Wild Card race, where Baltimore sits just 2.5 games off the pace.
Then there is Liam Hicks, who the Marlins are reportedly open to trading given the emergence of Joe Mack. While he has four more years of club control, Mack’s development coupled with the growth of Triple-A catcher Agustín Ramirez makes moving Hicks easier for Miami.

Boston looking for SS help

Red Sox fans were ready to write off the season back in June, after losing two-out-of-three to Colorado dropped Boston to 32-46, and 15.5 games out in the division.

But a 15-game winning streak changed everything, and with a win Wednesday night against the Athletics, the Red Sox are now five games above .500, just seven back in the AL East, and if the playoffs were to begin today, Boston would be in as a Wild Card team.

That rapid turnaround has seen the Red Sox emerge as buyers at the MLB Trade Deadline and they already made one move, acquiring infielder Curtis Mead in a deal with the Washington Nationals. But he was hit by a pitch in his Boston debut, and is headed to the IL with a broken wrist.

Zach Neto is a popular name linked to Boston, but the Los Angeles Angels might be reluctant to move the 25-year-old infielder who is under team control for the next three-plus seasons. Other options include Houston’s Jeremy Peña, Miami’s Otto Lopez, and perhaps another deal with Washington for CJ Abrams.

The latest on Tarik Skubal

The Detroit Tigers ace took the bump on Wednesday for his last start ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline.

Will it be his final start for the Tigers?

Detroit is in a fascinating position. At the moment the Tigers are just 4.5 games out of the final AL Wild Card spot, and having an ace like Skubal down the stretch could ease a playoff push.

But with Skubal set to hit free agency — and expected to look for a contract in the $400 million range this offseason — the Tigers might look to get something in return for him now, rather than see him walk in free agency.

It is a decision that could shape not just Detroit, but all of baseball, for the future.

MLB.com put together a roundtable with Mark Feinsand, Tigers beat writer Jason Beck, and several other beat writers for teams that could put together an offer for the ace. According to Beck, Detroit would prioritize young arms in any such deal. “[The] Tigers will look for young pitching in pretty much any deal. They have good young arms in Troy Melton, Jackson Jobe, Reese Olson and Ty Madden, but their farm system is thin on projectable starting pitchers,” wrote Beck.

The most intriguing team, at least according to this writer, is Milwaukee. As noted by Brewers beat writer Adam McCalvy, while Milwaukee is one of those teams that “must stockpile prospects, especially position player prospects, in order to contend year after year” the Brewers are “very interested” in Skubal.

Pairing Skubal with Jacob Misiorowski would give Milwaukee one heck of a one-two combination at the top of the rotation down the stretch, and into the playoffs.

It is worth noting that Skubal notched his 1,000th career strikeout on Wednesday, so if it was indeed his last outing for the Tigers, he will go out in style.

#MLB #trade #rumors #Twins #Red #Sox #Tarik #Skubal #ahead #Mondays #deadline

Chelsea has signed defender Maxence Lacroix from ​Crystal Palace on a deal ‌until 2032, the Premier League ​club said on ⁠Thursday.

British media reported that Chelsea paid £52 million ($69.6 million) for the France international.

“Lacroix ‌arrives at Chelsea with the reputation of ‌being among European football’s ‌most ⁠commanding centre-backs, as well ⁠as one of the fastest and best aerial defenders in the Premier ​League,” the club ‌said in a statement.

The 26-year-old French international made 55 appearances in all competitions last ‌season recording three goals ​and three assists as Palace won the UEFA ⁠Conference League.

A product of Sochaux’s academy, Lacroix made 28 senior ‌appearances for the French club before joining Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg in 2020.

Palace signed Lacroix from Wolfsburg in 2024 for a reported ‌fee of £18 million ($24.09 million). He made ​98 appearances in all competitions during his two ⁠seasons in English football.

Lacroix made three ⁠appearances for France at this year’s World Cup ‌as it finished fourth.

Published on Jul 30, 2026

#France #defender #Lacroix #moves #Chelsea #Crystal #Palace #FIFA #World #Cup">France defender Lacroix moves to Chelsea from Crystal Palace after FIFA World Cup 2026 Chelsea has signed defender Maxence Lacroix from ​Crystal Palace on a deal ‌until 2032, the Premier League ​club said on ⁠Thursday.British media reported that Chelsea paid £52 million (.6 million) for the France international.“Lacroix ‌arrives at Chelsea with the reputation of ‌being among European football’s ‌most ⁠commanding centre-backs, as well ⁠as one of the fastest and best aerial defenders in the Premier ​League,” the club ‌said in a statement.The 26-year-old French international made 55 appearances in all competitions last ‌season recording three goals ​and three assists as Palace won the UEFA ⁠Conference League.A product of Sochaux’s academy, Lacroix made 28 senior ‌appearances for the French club before joining Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg in 2020.Palace signed Lacroix from Wolfsburg in 2024 for a reported ‌fee of £18 million (.09 million). He made ​98 appearances in all competitions during his two ⁠seasons in English football.Lacroix made three ⁠appearances for France at this year’s World Cup ‌as it finished fourth.Published on Jul 30, 2026 #France #defender #Lacroix #moves #Chelsea #Crystal #Palace #FIFA #World #Cup

Deadspin | Chargers great, college Hall of Famer Billy Ray Smith Jr. dies at 64 May 10, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers former linebacker Billy Ray Smith speaks as LaDainian Tomlinson listens at the Celebration of Life for Junior Seau at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-Imagn Images Former San Diego Chargers linebacker and College Football Hall of Famer Billy Ray Smith Jr. died on Wednesday at age 64, his family announced. “It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of our beloved Billy Ray Smith Jr., who passed away peacefully surrounded by family,” the family statement read. “Billy Ray faced his long journey with dementia caused by CTE with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength. “Billy Ray brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the world as a devoted father, husband, son, and loyal friend. On the NFL gridiron for a decade with the Chargers, and decades that followed in sports broadcasting, Billy Ray earned deep respect from teammates, colleagues, and fans, who he cherished in return.” The son of Super Bowl champion defensive end Billy Ray Smith Sr., Smith Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps at Arkansas, where he was a two-time All-American for the Razorbacks before San Diego drafted him fifth overall in the 1983 NFL Draft. He played his entire 10-year pro career for the Chargers, amassing 26.5 sacks, 15 interceptions and 13 forced fumbles in 126 games and earning a spot on the franchise’s 50th anniversary team in 2009. “To know Billy Ray was to love Billy Ray,” Chargers owner Dean Spanos said in a statement. “Yes, he was a member of our 50th Anniversary team. Yes, he was a Charger for life, playing his entire 10-year career here. But he wasn’t merely a great football player. He was, truly, larger than life. Always smiling. Lighting up every room he walked into, infectious laughter. The kind of friend a friend should be. That was Billy Ray. “When someone who brought so much positivity into the world leaves us, it’s hard to process. Hard to accept. That’s how I feel right now, and I know I’m not alone. Billy Ray loved his family, loved the Chargers, loved his teammates, loved his community and loved helping those in needs. And we all loved him back.” After his playing career, Smith spent time as the sports director at San Diego’s ABC10 News, as a radio host in the area and as a broadcaster on college and professional football games. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Hunt, and their daughter, Savannah. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Chargers #great #college #Hall #Famer #Billy #Ray #Smith #diesMay 10, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers former linebacker Billy Ray Smith speaks as LaDainian Tomlinson listens at the Celebration of Life for Junior Seau at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-Imagn Images

Former San Diego Chargers linebacker and College Football Hall of Famer Billy Ray Smith Jr. died on Wednesday at age 64, his family announced.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of our beloved Billy Ray Smith Jr., who passed away peacefully surrounded by family,” the family statement read. “Billy Ray faced his long journey with dementia caused by CTE with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength.

“Billy Ray brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the world as a devoted father, husband, son, and loyal friend. On the NFL gridiron for a decade with the Chargers, and decades that followed in sports broadcasting, Billy Ray earned deep respect from teammates, colleagues, and fans, who he cherished in return.”

The son of Super Bowl champion defensive end Billy Ray Smith Sr., Smith Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps at Arkansas, where he was a two-time All-American for the Razorbacks before San Diego drafted him fifth overall in the 1983 NFL Draft.


He played his entire 10-year pro career for the Chargers, amassing 26.5 sacks, 15 interceptions and 13 forced fumbles in 126 games and earning a spot on the franchise’s 50th anniversary team in 2009.

“To know Billy Ray was to love Billy Ray,” Chargers owner Dean Spanos said in a statement. “Yes, he was a member of our 50th Anniversary team. Yes, he was a Charger for life, playing his entire 10-year career here. But he wasn’t merely a great football player. He was, truly, larger than life. Always smiling. Lighting up every room he walked into, infectious laughter. The kind of friend a friend should be. That was Billy Ray.

“When someone who brought so much positivity into the world leaves us, it’s hard to process. Hard to accept. That’s how I feel right now, and I know I’m not alone. Billy Ray loved his family, loved the Chargers, loved his teammates, loved his community and loved helping those in needs. And we all loved him back.”

After his playing career, Smith spent time as the sports director at San Diego’s ABC10 News, as a radio host in the area and as a broadcaster on college and professional football games.

He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Hunt, and their daughter, Savannah.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Chargers #great #college #Hall #Famer #Billy #Ray #Smith #dies">Deadspin | Chargers great, college Hall of Famer Billy Ray Smith Jr. dies at 64 May 10, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers former linebacker Billy Ray Smith speaks as LaDainian Tomlinson listens at the Celebration of Life for Junior Seau at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-Imagn Images Former San Diego Chargers linebacker and College Football Hall of Famer Billy Ray Smith Jr. died on Wednesday at age 64, his family announced. “It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of our beloved Billy Ray Smith Jr., who passed away peacefully surrounded by family,” the family statement read. “Billy Ray faced his long journey with dementia caused by CTE with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength. “Billy Ray brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the world as a devoted father, husband, son, and loyal friend. On the NFL gridiron for a decade with the Chargers, and decades that followed in sports broadcasting, Billy Ray earned deep respect from teammates, colleagues, and fans, who he cherished in return.” The son of Super Bowl champion defensive end Billy Ray Smith Sr., Smith Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps at Arkansas, where he was a two-time All-American for the Razorbacks before San Diego drafted him fifth overall in the 1983 NFL Draft. He played his entire 10-year pro career for the Chargers, amassing 26.5 sacks, 15 interceptions and 13 forced fumbles in 126 games and earning a spot on the franchise’s 50th anniversary team in 2009. “To know Billy Ray was to love Billy Ray,” Chargers owner Dean Spanos said in a statement. “Yes, he was a member of our 50th Anniversary team. Yes, he was a Charger for life, playing his entire 10-year career here. But he wasn’t merely a great football player. He was, truly, larger than life. Always smiling. Lighting up every room he walked into, infectious laughter. The kind of friend a friend should be. That was Billy Ray. “When someone who brought so much positivity into the world leaves us, it’s hard to process. Hard to accept. That’s how I feel right now, and I know I’m not alone. Billy Ray loved his family, loved the Chargers, loved his teammates, loved his community and loved helping those in needs. And we all loved him back.” After his playing career, Smith spent time as the sports director at San Diego’s ABC10 News, as a radio host in the area and as a broadcaster on college and professional football games. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Hunt, and their daughter, Savannah. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Chargers #great #college #Hall #Famer #Billy #Ray #Smith #dies

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