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Tigers’ Jahmai Jones Ready to Embrace Korean Culture in World Baseball Classic Detroit Tigers outfielder Jahmai Jones is set to represent South Korea in the World Baseball Classic, marking his first international appearance in the prestigious tournament. The 28-year-old player, who had his best season in 2025, will compete in the event as part of South Korea’s team, a decision deeply rooted in his family’s cultural heritage. Jones’ connection to Korean culture stems from his mother, Michele Jones, who was born in Seoul and adopted as a child. Her upbringing in South Korea, along with her younger brother, infused the family with strong Korean traditions, particularly through food. “It’s still one of my favorite things,” Jones said during spring training in Lakeland, Florida, reflecting on the lasting impact of his mother’s heritage. Representing South Korea in the WBC is a personal milestone for Jones, as it allows him to honor his mother’s roots and share the experience with her. The opportunity to play in the World Baseball Classic came after Jones demonstrated his value in Major League Baseball. Over parts of five seasons, he has played for the Los Angeles Angels, Baltimore Orioles, Milwaukee Brewers, New York Yankees, and Detroit Tigers. His breakout year in 2025 saw him thrive as a platoon hitter for the Tigers, excelling against left-handed pitchers. With seven home runs in 104 at-bats and an OPS of .970 against southpaws, he earned an invitation to the WBC. Jones’ journey to the big leagues began with a second-round draft pick by the Angels in 2015. After stints with multiple teams, he signed with the Tigers in 2024, where he solidified his role as a reliable hitter.#world_baseball_classic #jahmai_jones #michele_jones #south_korea #detroit_tigers

Jones aims to end Korea's 10-game skid against Japan Jamaie Jones, a Korean-born mixed-race player joining the World Baseball Classic (WBC) team, carries a deeply personal connection to his heritage. His father passed away when he was 13, leaving his Korean mother, Michelle Jones, to raise him and his five siblings. For Jones, being selected for the WBC team represents more than just a sports milestone—it is a tribute to his mother’s enduring influence. The team had maintained regular communication with Jones since last year, and his desire to represent Korea was unwavering despite his uncertain status with the Detroit Tigers. Determined to honor his mother’s legacy, Jones crossed the Pacific to wear the Taegeuk emblem in a foreign land, embracing the challenge of playing alongside unfamiliar teammates. Jones’s journey to the WBC was marked by emotional significance. His mother and other family members traveled to Tokyo for the tournament, where he delivered a pivotal moment during the game against the Czech Republic. In a 11-4 victory, Jones hit a go-ahead home run, a gesture of gratitude to his mother. Reflecting on the moment, he told reporters, “Before the Czech game, we were having breakfast and said, ‘Can you believe we are in Tokyo right now?’ It was a really special moment.” Jones also expressed his awareness of the cultural weight of the Korea-Japan matchup, stating, “I think the stadium atmosphere will be very passionate. It’s special to be able to play against such a good team in a big tournament like this. I will show a good performance,” vowing to contribute to a historic victory. Beyond his personal story, Jones’s role in the team’s strategy is critical. Manager Ryu Ji-hyun emphasized the decision to place Jones in the No. 2 batting spot, citing his strong performance metrics.#world_baseball_classic #jamaie_jones #korea #michelle_jones #ryu_ji_hyun

Tigers outfielder Jahmai Jones made a strong debut in the World Baseball Classic, hitting a home run to help Team Korea secure an early Pool Play victory over the Czech Republic. The 28-year-old player, whose family has deep ties to South Korea, described the moment as a meaningful introduction to a country and fanbase that initially needed to learn more about him. Jones, the son of Michele and Andre Jones, grew up in a household where his mother, born in South Korea, became a widow at 42 after Andre’s death from a brain aneurysm in 2011. His decision to pursue a spot on Korea’s WBC roster was driven by a desire to honor his mother, a goal he shared with his agency, which facilitated communication with Korean officials and MLB. The Tigers also supported his bid by promoting him as a potential candidate. His standout 2025 season, marked by a .937 OPS (157 OPS+) in 150 plate appearances, further solidified his chances. The wait for confirmation was tense, with Jones and his family anxiously following updates on MLB Network. “My wife and I were going crazy. My family was FaceTiming during it, and it was just a really cool moment to kind of share with my family,” he said. The emotional significance of the opportunity was underscored by his family’s presence in Tokyo for the tournament, including his mother, who attended his game-winning home run. Jones, a former top prospect drafted by the Los Angeles Angels in 2015, has navigated a challenging career, playing for four teams before signing a minor-league deal with the Tigers in 2025. He carved out a niche as a lefty-mashing specialist, contributing significantly to the team’s success. While his role in 2026 may shift with the potential arrival of top prospect Kevin McGonigle, Jones remains focused on proving himself. “The job stays the same.#world_baseball_classic #jahmai_jones #team_korea #czech_republic #michele_jones

Gate River Run Expo Moves to Mandarin for 2026 Race Runners preparing for the Gate River Run are advised to adjust their plans as the annual expo has relocated from downtown Jacksonville to Mandarin for the 2026 event. The Sleiman Enterprises Runners’ Expo will take place at Mandarin Point Shopping Center, located at 12200 San Jose Blvd., from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. Organizers warn of increased traffic during evening rush hours, particularly between 4 and 6 p.m. on Friday, and recommend participants allow extra travel time and anticipate delays when entering and exiting the shopping center. Parking details are outlined on the event’s website, with general parking accessible via San Jose Boulevard. Areas marked with yellow Xs are designated no-parking zones, while additional parking options are available at Trinity Mandarin Church, situated north of the expo site. Drivers are urged to follow police and traffic personnel instructions to avoid blocking lanes or intersections. For those unable to attend the expo, a signed authorization form can be used to have someone else pick up race packets. The form can be completed onsite, and participants must bring required ID along with a printed or digital copy of the authorization. Jacksonville-area residents living within 30 miles of downtown must collect packets at the expo and cannot use race-day pickup within that radius. Runners residing more than 30 miles away may pick up their packets on race day for a $10 fee. The event’s relocation highlights logistical changes for participants, emphasizing the need for careful planning to navigate the new location and associated traffic challenges.#gate_river_run #sleiman_enterprises #mandarin_point_shopping_center #trinity_mandarin_church #san_jose_boulevard

Gate River Run: Which Jacksonville Roads Close for the Race? More than 15,000 runners are set to participate in the 49th annual Gate River Run on Saturday, March 7, 2026, with the event spanning downtown Jacksonville, San Marco, and St. Nicholas. To accommodate the race, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office will implement road closures in key areas, including two major downtown bridges over the St. Johns River. These closures will impact both runners and local traffic, particularly for commuters heading to other events scheduled around the same time. The race route will see several roads closed to vehicular traffic, with some restrictions lasting only briefly while others remain closed throughout the morning. For example, the Main Street Bridge will be closed for a shorter duration, while other bridges and streets will be off-limits for a longer period. The closures are expected to complicate travel for drivers attending events such as the Jacksonville Home & Patio Show at the Prime Osborn Convention Center and the ASUN women’s basketball tournament semifinals at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. The basketball game, scheduled for 11 a.m. on March 7, will be held just a few blocks from the race finish line, coinciding with a time when thousands of runners will still be on or near the course. Detailed road closures include Bay Street from Liberty Street to the Jacksonville Shipyards, Gator Bowl Boulevard near the Hart Bridge ramp to A. Philip Randolph Boulevard, and Hart Bridge in the southeastbound direction from Duval Street to Atlantic Boulevard. Duval Street will be closed between the Jacksonville Fairgrounds and the Main Street Bridge, while A. Philip Randolph Boulevard will be restricted from Adams Street to Bay Street.#gate_river_run #jacksonville_sheriff_s_office #prime_osborn_convention_center #vy_star_veterans_memorial_arena #st_johns_river

San Marco party atmosphere powers Gate River Run participants through food, music and fun drinks For many runners, the Gate River Run’s most dreaded stretch is the “Green Monster,” a steep challenge on the course that tests speed and resolve on the Hart Bridge. But runners say their favorite part of the event comes in one neighborhood: San Marco, where residents line the route with cheers, snacks and creative boosts. “You got people throwing the little Dunkin’ Donut balls at you in San Marco,” said runner Joe Ruppert. The historic neighborhood has long been a highlight for many runners at the Gate River Run, offering loud crowds, music and elaborate “hydration stations” that runners say give them a second wind. Another runner, Paul Davis, described the experience as “electric.” Residents spend days preparing block-party-style setups, complete with music, signs and themed stations meant to entertain and energize the field of runners. “It’s been one of my most favorite things about living on this street,” said resident Gaby Haddad. One San Marco house has become an iconic stop with cheers, a DJ-like vibe and, for some years, tequila shots offered to passing runners. “It puts a little pep in your step,” said resident Pete Behringer, who helped set up the scene. Neighbors say this year’s setup includes larger quantities of supplies than last year: 90 pounds of bananas, 20 tequila handles and 2,000 shot glasses. “I feel like sometimes people are sagging, they’re like, ‘Oh man, you know we’ve got a long way to go, and then, boom, here we are: Music, bananas, tequila,” said Behringer. “So many people are thrilled with what we have to offer.” Some residents like Haddid focus on hydration and power-up boxes that runners can hit above their heads.#san_marco #gate_river_run #jacksonville #paul_davis #gaby_haddad

RIZIN 52: March 7 Show Features High-Profile MMA Action Rizin Fighting Federation kicks off its 2026 season with Rizin 52, a card packed with high-stakes matchups and standout fighters. The main event will feature former Bellator champion and UFC veteran Patchy Mix facing off against rising Japanese star Kyoma Akimoto. The co-main event promises a clash of PRIDE legacies as Luiz Gustavo, a protege of Wanderlei Silva, takes on Taisei Sakuraba, the son of MMA legend Kazushi Sakuraba. Additional bouts include former UFC fighter Carlos Mota challenging wily striker Yuki Ito, while 48-year-old veteran Hideo Tokoro meets grappling specialist Jinnosuke Kashimura in a generational showdown. Former LFA bantamweight champion John Sweeney also headlines a fight against 50+ fight veteran Shoko Sato. For first-time viewers, Rizin 52 offers a unique experience distinct from traditional MMA promotions. The organization’s rules allow knees and soccer kicks to a downed opponent, and matches are judged based on overall performance rather than round-by-round scoring. The event will take place in a ring, further distinguishing it from other promotions. The guide to watching Rizin 52 includes start times varying by region. In North America, the show airs on March 6 at 9 p.m. PT and March 7 at 12 a.m. ET. Streaming options include Rizin Premium Pass, individual PPV purchase for $19.99 with English commentary from Michael Schiavello and Damien Brown, and Rizin Live for international viewers. The latter costs 5500 yen for advance purchase or 6000 yen on the day of. The full card includes: Kyoma Akimoto vs. Patchy Mix, Luiz Gustavo vs. Taisei Sakuraba, Ryo Takagi vs. Shuya Kimura, Viktor Kolesnik vs. Koji Takeda, Saori Oshima vs. Kate Lotus, Yuki Ito vs. Carlos Mota, Hideo Tokoro vs. Jinnosuke Kashimura, Kyung Po Kim vs.#rizin_fighting_federation #patchy_mix #kyoma_akimoto #luiz_gustavo #taisei_sakuraba

RIZIN 52: Akimoto vs. Mix Full Results Patchy Mix returns to the octagon in a high-profile main event at RIZIN 52 on Saturday, March 7, 2026, in Tokyo, Japan. The fight pits the former Bellator bantamweight grand prix winner against Kyoma Akimoto, marking Mix’s first appearance since his departure from the UFC. After a successful stint with Bellator, where he claimed the promotion’s undisputed title, Mix struggled in his UFC debut, leading to his release from the organization. Despite the setback, he has secured a main event spot at RIZIN 52, where he will compete at featherweight—a move he had previously announced. The event also features Canadian flyweight Tony Laramie, who aims to improve his record to 3-1 under the RIZIN Fighting Federation banner. Laramie, the younger brother of former UFC fighter TJ Laramie, faces Takaki Soya in a key matchup. The Ariake Arena in Tokyo will host the action, with live streaming available via RIZIN.tv starting at 11 PM ET on March 6 for international audiences. The main event saw Kyoma Akimoto defeat Patchy Mix by TKO in the second round, combining punches and soccer kicks to end the fight. Other notable results include Luiz Gustavo’s knockout of Taisei Sakuraba in the second round, Ryo Takagi’s first-round TKO over Shuya Kimura, and Koji Takeda’s unanimous decision victory over Viktor Kolesnik. Saori Oshima and Yuki Ito also secured wins via unanimous decision and TKO, respectively. In additional bouts, Jinnosuke Kashimura submitted Hideo Tokoro with an Anaconda choke, Kim Kyung-pyo defeated Yusuke Yachi via TKO after a cut, and Shoko Sato submitted John Sweeney with a triangle choke. Tony Laramie continued his winning streak with a third-round TKO over Takaki Soya, while Lee Jung-hyun and Noeru Narita each secured victories via TKO and submission.#japan #rizin #akimoto #mix #tokyo

What’s Tie Break Tens and are Fast formats the future of tennis?Launched in 2015, Tie Break Tens is built around the premise that every match is a ‌tiebreak and the first to 10 points with a margin of two wins. Launched in 2015, Tie Break Tens is built around the premise that every match is a ‌tiebreak and the first to 10 points with a margin of two wins. #points #Tie #Break #Break_Tens #Tie_Break #Fast_formats #Tens #Launched #Fast #tiebreak

President Donald Trump announces new executive order on college sports, anticipates legal challenges President Donald Trump outlined plans to sign a new executive order addressing issues in college athletics during a Friday roundtable discussion titled “Saving College Sports.” He emphasized that the measure would likely face legal challenges but expressed hope for a favorable judicial outcome. Trump reiterated his stance that the current state of college sports, particularly in the NIL (name, image, likeness) era, has created significant problems for institutions, athletes, and families. The executive order, which Trump said would be issued within a week of the roundtable, is described as more comprehensive than his previous July directive. The earlier order targeted pay-for-play practices in college athletics and sought to protect non-revenue sports while banning NIL-related pay-for-play arrangements. During the discussion, Trump highlighted the financial disparities in college sports, noting the disproportionate share of revenue allocated to football and basketball following the House v. NCAA settlement. He suggested the new order would address broader systemic issues, including the impact of NIL on college athletics. Trump acknowledged that the previous executive order served as a “test” and that the upcoming measure would incorporate lessons learned over the past six months. He emphasized the need for a “common sense” approach, stating that the document would be “very well-thought-out” and aimed at resolving the “disaster” he described for colleges, players, and families. However, he admitted uncertainty about its legal viability, noting that the outcome would depend on the judge assigned to the case.#president_donald_trump #executive_order #college_sports #ncaa #score_act