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2026 World Baseball Classic predictions: Will USA win it all? The 2026 World Baseball Classic, set to begin after a three-year hiatus, has sparked intense speculation about which teams will dominate the tournament. Following Japan’s 2023 victory over the United States, the 20-team event has drawn attention to the potential for a repeat of that historic matchup. ESPN’s baseball experts have weighed in on the tournament’s likely progression, focusing on which teams will advance from each pool, the final championship showdown, and standout performers. In Pool A, Puerto Rico and Canada are the top contenders, with Puerto Rico receiving the most votes as the winner. Experts believe both teams will advance to the quarterfinals, citing Puerto Rico’s roster of MLB stars like Nolan Arenado, Edwin Diaz, and Seth Lugo. Canada, despite being an emerging force, is expected to make a strong push. Colombia and Cuba are also predicted to advance, though with less confidence. Pool B features the United States as the overwhelming favorite, with 14 of 15 experts selecting the team to advance. The U.S. roster includes elite players like Juan Soto, Julio Rodriguez, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Fernando Tatis Jr., and Cristopher Sanchez, making them a formidable squad. Italy is the second-most likely team to advance, with some experts predicting it could edge out Mexico for the second quarterfinal spot. Mexico’s MLB talent, including players like José Abreu and José Ramírez, gives it a strong chance, but Italy’s depth and international experience may give it an edge. In Pool C, Japan is the clear favorite, with 14 of 15 experts picking the team to win. The Japanese squad, led by Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, is considered one of the most stacked in the tournament.#japan #united_states #world_baseball_classic #puerto_rico #canada

NBA All-Stars Who Are Struggling Since The Break: Is Wemby Hurting His MVP Chances? The NBA season’s second half has brought a sharp focus on player performance as teams gear up for playoff contention. After the All-Star break, the number of games remaining has tightened, making inconsistent performances more impactful. Among the league’s top stars, several have faced challenges in maintaining their pre-break form, with Victor Wembanyama’s recent struggles sparking debate over his MVP prospects. Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs’ star forward, remains a top contender for the Kia MVP Award, sitting at No. 4 on the league’s ladder. His season averages—23.7 points, 11.2 rebounds, 2.8 blocks—still reflect elite production. However, his post-break performance has drawn scrutiny. Over his last six games, his scoring output has dipped to 19.2 points per contest, despite maintaining strong defensive impact. This decline has raised questions about his ability to sustain peak efficiency as the season enters its final stretch. The Spurs’ success in February has provided context for Wembanyama’s performance. The team’s 11-0 record in the month has kept them in the race for the No. 1 seed, with a three-game cushion over the Thunder. Team success often bolsters MVP cases, even when individual box scores fluctuate. Wembanyama’s pre-break numbers were stellar: 24.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 2.7 blocks, with a 51.1% field goal clip and 36.3% three-point accuracy. Post-break, his shooting efficiency has dropped to 42.7% from the field and 19.4% from three, though his defensive contributions have grown. The key issue for Wembanyama has been his shooting accuracy, particularly from beyond the arc. Despite maintaining a high volume of three-point attempts (5.#donovan_mitchell #san_antonio_spurs #victor_wembanyama #kia_mvp_award #nba_all_stars

Spurs Coach Mitch Johnson Unveils Playoffs Strategy with Victor Wembanyama With fewer than 20 regular-season games remaining, San Antonio Spurs coach Mitch Johnson may have unveiled a pivotal playoff strategy centered around Victor Wembanyama. The team’s star player has been carefully managed throughout the season, but recent actions suggest a shift in approach. During a matchup against the Detroit Pistons, Johnson allowed Wembanyama to play 40 minutes, resulting in a dominant performance: 38 points, 16 rebounds, and five blocks. This decision highlights a potential game plan to maximize Wembanyama’s impact in the postseason. The Spurs have historically limited Wembanyama’s minutes to balance his workload and reduce injury risks, relying on players like Luke Kornet to share the offensive load. However, statistical analysis reveals Wembanyama’s efficiency when given full minutes. Per 36 minutes, he averages 29.2 points, 13.8 rebounds, and 3.7 blocks—numbers that underscore his value in extended play. Transitioning from an average of 29.4 minutes per game in the regular season to 36 minutes in the playoffs could provide a significant edge for the Spurs. San Antonio is already positioned for a strong postseason, with a projected 59-win season, a top-10 offense, and a top-3 defense. The team’s current structure allows for flexibility in managing Wembanyama’s minutes, especially with the NBA playoffs’ scheduling gaps between games. This flexibility means Johnson can strategically increase Wembanyama’s workload without jeopardizing his health. The most critical matchup could come against the Oklahoma City Thunder, a team that has struggled to score against Wembanyama even under minutes restrictions.#spurs #mitch_johnson #victor_wembanyama #oklahoma_city_thunder #luk_kornet

Cobolli will seek his first title in Acapulco Flavio Cobolli, the 20th-ranked Italian tennis player and fifth seed at the Abierto Mexicano Telcel presented by HSBC, advanced to his first final on the ATP tour after defeating Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanovic in a closely contested three-set match. The victory, secured with a score of 7-6(5), 3-6, 6-4, marks Cobolli’s fourth ATP final and his second on hard court, a surface where he has previously shown strong performance. The match, which lasted two hours and 26 minutes, will now set the stage for his pursuit of his first title in Acapulco. The first set proved to be a battle of endurance and precision. Cobolli took an early 5-4 lead, but Kecmanovic capitalized on the Italian’s unforced errors, which totaled 16 in the first set. Despite the setback, Cobolli rallied to win the tiebreak and take the first set. The second set saw a tight exchange, with Kecmanovic breaking Cobolli’s serve to take a 4-3 lead and ultimately secure the set, forcing a decisive third set. In the final set, Cobolli demonstrated resilience, overcoming a 1-3 deficit to win five consecutive games and clinch the match. His powerful serve was a key factor, as he recorded 13 aces compared to Kecmanovic’s 7. However, Cobolli’s unforced errors totaled 36, slightly fewer than Kecmanovic’s 37. The Italian’s ability to leverage his forehand speed proved critical in securing the victory. Cobolli expressed his satisfaction with the result, stating, “I’m really happy, it was a tough match, but I played very well. There’s still one match left (this Saturday) and I’m going to give it my all to fight for the title. Thanks to the crowd who also supported me throughout the match.” His focus now shifts to the final, where he aims to extend his hard-court success and claim his first ATP title.#flavio_cobolli #miomir_kecmanovic #abierto_mexicano_telcel #hsbc #acapulco

Retired World Series Champion Ready for One Last Ride In WBC Former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher James Paxton, 37, is set to make his final professional pitching appearance in the World Baseball Classic after retiring from Major League Baseball following an injury-plagued career. Despite missing significant time in his final years with the league, Paxton will represent Team Canada in the tournament, marking the end of his 11-year MLB journey. Paxton’s MLB career was marked by frequent injuries, which limited his playing time in recent seasons. Between 2020 and 2022, he appeared in five games or fewer each year, bouncing between teams including the Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Boston Red Sox. His most notable achievement came in 2024 when he helped the Dodgers secure their first World Series title in franchise history. Though Paxton’s MLB career has concluded, he will return to the mound for Team Canada in the WBC. Mike Vorel of The Seattle Times noted that Paxton’s career was “pocked with injuries,” yet he compiled a 73-41 record with a 3.77 ERA and 1,005 strikeouts across 177 starts. After retiring in 2024, Paxton spent over a year away from the game before accepting his invitation to join Team Canada. Team Canada’s WBC campaign begins with a pool play matchup against Colombia, followed by a game against Panama. While Paxton is not scheduled to start either match, he is expected to pitch in one of the tournament’s later games, providing a fitting finale to his professional career. The decision to include him in the roster underscores his experience and value to the team, even as he prepares to step away from the sport. Paxton’s participation highlights the competitive nature of the WBC and the opportunities it provides for players seeking to make a final impact on the global stage.#world_baseball_classic #james_paxton #los_angeles_dodgers #team_canada #mike_vorel

Ex-Mariner James Paxton's Final Chapter in World Baseball Classic James Paxton, the former Seattle Mariners pitcher known as “The Big Maple,” is set to conclude his baseball journey by representing Canada in the World Baseball Classic. After a 11-year MLB career marked by recurring injuries and a series of setbacks, Paxton is taking one last shot at the mound, this time on his own terms. Paxton’s MLB career was defined by resilience in the face of persistent physical challenges. From a lat strain in 2014 to a Tommy John surgery in 2021, his body endured a litany of injuries that disrupted his prime. Despite these obstacles, he compiled a 73-41 record with a 3.77 ERA and 1,005 strikeouts over 177 starts. His tenure with the Mariners included 583 2/3 innings, 619 strikeouts, and a 3.42 ERA across seven seasons. One of his most memorable moments came in 2018 when he became the first Canadian to throw a no-hitter in his home country, blanking the Toronto Blue Jays. He also earned a World Series ring with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024. Paxton retired in 2024, choosing to step away from the game to focus on family and personal growth. He and his wife, Katie, along with their two young children, settled in the Seattle area, where he bought a home. The decision to retire also allowed him to pursue an undergraduate degree in business and culture at the University of Kentucky, a program he began taking online 16 years after his initial enrollment. Looking ahead, he plans to complete his degree and eventually pursue a master’s in sports psychology, aiming to mentor players and work in sports psychology. The WBC represents a final opportunity for Paxton to play, even if it’s not in the MLB.#world_baseball_classic #seattle_mariners #james_paxton #katie_paxton #university_of_kentucky

Mariners News: James Paxton, Darell Hernáiz, and Ozzie Albies The Seattle Mariners’ spring training updates and World Baseball Classic highlights were the focus of recent news, with standout performances from several players and key developments in team dynamics. James Paxton, a veteran pitcher for the Mariners, has officially retired from Major League Baseball but remains committed to representing Team Canada in international competition. His decision marks the end of a storied career, though he continues to contribute to the sport through his national team efforts. Meanwhile, the World Baseball Classic (WBC) delivered dramatic moments, including two walk-off home runs in a single day. Darell Hernáiz of Puerto Rico became the first player in WBC history to hit a walk-off homer in the tournament’s second round, capping off a thrilling game in San Juan. His feat followed a similar achievement by Ozzie Albies of the Netherlands, who launched a three-run walk-off shot against Nicaragua earlier in the day. Albies’ home run secured a victory for the Netherlands and marked the second such walk-off in WBC history. The WBC also sparked controversy when Team Italy was accused of using performance-enhancing drugs, though the allegations remain unproven. Meanwhile, Luis Arraez’s standout performance in the tournament, where he slugged .200 points higher than his MLB average, drew praise for his clutch hitting. In Mariners news, mental performance coach Adam Bernero shared insights into his methods for helping players reach their peak, including his work with Shannon Drayer. The team also faced challenges, as injuries and roster adjustments continued to shape their spring training outlook.#ozzie_albies #world_baseball_classic #seattle_mariners #james_paxton #darell_herniz

De'Aaron Fox Falls Short of Double-Double in Clippers Victory De'Aaron Fox contributed 19 points, 9 field goals made out of 18 attempts, and 1 three-pointer made out of 8 attempts, along with two rebounds, nine assists, and one steal in the Sacramento Kings' 116-112 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday. The 28-year-old guard narrowly missed recording his seventh double-double of the season, falling just short of the double-digit mark in rebounds. Fox has now gone 13 consecutive games without reaching double figures in assists, marking a slight decline in his playmaking role. During this stretch, he has averaged 16.2 points, 6.0 assists, 2.8 rebounds, 1.6 three-pointers, and 1.2 steals per game, despite maintaining a 50.0% shooting accuracy from the field. His overall impact remains significant, though his role in orchestrating the offense has seen a modest reduction in usage. The Kings' victory extended their winning streak, with Fox's performance playing a key role in securing the win. His ability to balance scoring and playmaking continues to be a vital asset for the team, even as his assist numbers have dipped slightly in recent games. The result highlights the importance of his all-around contributions in driving the team's success.#nba #double_double #de_aaron_fox #los_angeles_clippers #sacramento_kings

De'Aaron Fox flirts with double-double Friday against Clippers De'Aaron Fox nearly recorded a double-double in the Spurs' 116-112 victory over the Clippers on Friday. The guard contributed 19 points, including 9 of 18 field goals and 1 of 8 three-pointers, along with nine assists, one steal, and two rebounds. His performance helped secure the win for San Antonio, showcasing his ability to impact the game both offensively and playmaking-wise. Fox has been consistent in his contributions over the past five games, posting three or more assists and seven or more points in each contest. This consistency has made him a reliable option for head coach Mitch Johnson, who has relied on Fox's versatility within a deep San Antonio roster. The guard’s efforts have translated to solid averages this season, with 18.8 points and 6.2 assists per game, alongside a usage rate of 24.3%. His ability to distribute the ball and score efficiently has been a key factor in the Spurs' success, particularly in high-pressure matchups. Against the Clippers, Fox’s nine assists highlighted his role as a playmaker, while his 19 points demonstrated his scoring capability. The performance also underscored his adaptability, as he managed to contribute in multiple facets of the game despite facing a strong defensive challenge from the Clippers. Fox’s recent stretch of productivity has positioned him as a critical piece of the Spurs' offensive strategy. His combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive contributions has made him a valuable asset for the team, especially in games where the Spurs need to generate consistent production from their backcourt. As the season progresses, Fox’s ability to maintain this level of performance will be crucial for the Spurs’ chances of competing in the competitive Western Conference.#san_antonio #spurs #de_aaron_fox #clippers #mitch_johnson

Spurs' De'Aaron Fox: Just Misses Double-Double Friday De'Aaron Fox contributed 19 points, nine assists, two rebounds, and one steal in the San Antonio Spurs' 116-112 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday. The 28-year-old guard fell short of recording his seventh double-double of the season, finishing with 19 points on 9-of-18 shooting from the field and 1-of-8 from beyond the arc. His performance came over 30 minutes of play, marking a key contribution to the Spurs' win. Fox's near double-double highlights a recent trend in his game. Over the past 13 consecutive games, he has failed to reach double digits in assists, a departure from his earlier season output. During this stretch, he has averaged 16.2 points, 6.0 assists, 2.8 rebounds, 1.6 three-pointers, and 1.2 steals per game. Despite the decline in assist numbers, his shooting efficiency remains strong, with a 50.0% field goal percentage. The Spurs' victory over the Clippers showcased Fox's ability to impact the game in multiple ways. While his assist total fell short of a double-double, his scoring and playmaking helped drive the team's offensive efforts. The result underscores his value as a versatile offensive threat, even when his traditional assist numbers dip. Fox's performance also reflects a broader adjustment in his role within the Spurs' system. As his usage has slightly decreased, his focus has shifted toward scoring and ball distribution, with the team relying on him to create opportunities for teammates. This balance has allowed him to maintain a high level of production while adapting to the team's evolving strategies. The game against the Clippers provided a clear example of Fox's impact.#de_aaron_fox #san_antonio_spurs #los_angeles_clippers #double_double #spurs_v_clippers