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April 2 - April 8, 2021 Vol. 19, Issue 32 www.sportspagdfw.com FREE 2 April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 32 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on @sportspagdfw.com Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 32 | April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 3 April 2, 2021 - April 8 2021 AROUND THE AREA Vol. 19, Issue 32 LOCAL NEWS OF INTEREST sportspagedfw.com Established 2002 SMU hires new women’s Cover Photo: AROUND THE AREA where she served as assistant coach and WNBA draft picks. On the recruiting trail, 4 recruiting coordinator. She arrived in Ann she helped Baylor recruit top-10 recruiting RANGERS REPORT Arbor in 2019 after spending six years as classes every year, including the No. 1 5 BY DIC HUMPHREY an assistant coach at Baylor and three sea- recruiting class in the country in her final GOLF, ETC sons as the at Prairie View A&M. season in Waco. 6 BY TOM WARD Wilson becomes Black female Prior to joining the Baylor staff, she led PGA TOUR: VALERO TEXAS head coach at SMU. Prairie View A&M to three-straight SWAC 7 OPEN At UM, Wilson coached five Big Ten Tournament championships and NCAA BY PGATOUR.COM Wilson Named Head Women’s Basketball Coach At SMU All-Conference Team selections, among Tournament appearances. She compiled a STRONG FIELD FOR THE them the 2020-21 Big Ten Player of the 55-43 record in her three seasons as the 8 BY PGATOUR.COM DALLAS (SMU) - Toyelle Wilson has Year, the school's first AP All-American program's head coach, recruiting and and Wade Trophy finalist, Naz Hillmon. coaching eight SWAC All-Conference 2021 MLB PREVIEW been named the new Head Women's 9 BY TYLER KEPNER Basketball Coach, Director of Athletics On the recruiting trail, Michigan's 2020 Team selections, a Player of the Year, a Rick Hart announced this week. recruiting class was ranked as high as No. Freshman of the Year and a Newcomer of NEWS AND "Toyelle emerged from a really talented 12 and its 2021 class rated 18th. the Year. Prior to accepting the head coach NOTES Michigan finished the 2020-21 season position, Wilson was the Panthers' top 13 BY BO CARTER group of candidates," said Hart. "Her com- mitment to the academic, athletic and 16-6, earning its highest-ever NCAA assistant for four years, and spent three AUTO REVIEW Tournament seed (No. 6), and reached the seasons as an assistant coach at Robert BY KBB.COM social development of our student-athletes 17 Sweet 16 for the first time in school histo- Morris University. THE TICKET WINDOW aligns with our vision of shaping champi- 18 ons. She is a respected leader, and her pos- ry. The Wolverines defeated 11th-seeded Wilson was one of 30 coaches across the itive energy, strong work ethic and ability Florida Gulf Coast and No. 3 seed nation who participated in the Center for RESTAURANT REVIEW Tennessee in the tournament before falling Coaching Excellence (CCE) by the 19 BY RICHARD POLLAK to connect with and inspire others are qual- ities we look for in a head coach. We are in overtime to Baylor. During her first year Women's Basketball Coaches Association happy that Toyelle has accepted our offer at Michigan, the Wolverines compiled a (WBCA). The CCE is an elite program for to serve as the head women's basketball 21-11 record and were poised to make the select basketball coaches and is designed coach at SMU and look forward to work- 2020 NCAA Tournament before the season to provide college women's basketball ing with her and her staff in building a was canceled due to COVID-19 pandemic. coaches with the professional skills and championship program." Over her six seasons at Baylor, the Lady personal ethics training necessary to be "I would like to thank President Turner, Bears won the 2019 National Championship exceptional leaders. Wilson is also a mem- Rick Hart, Susan Vollmerhausen, the and claimed six regular-season Big 12 ber of the WBCA. administration and the entire championships and five confer- A native of Voorhees, New Jersey, Follow us on department for the incredible opportunity ence tournament titles. Baylor also made Wilson earned a bachelor's degree in busi- to lead this program," said Wilson. "SMU four NCAA Elite Eight appearances and ness management from Manhattan College Twitter & Facebook is a special place, with great people, presti- one NCAA Sweet 16 during her time in in 2003 and was a four-year letterwinner gious academics, history, and an athletic Waco. In total, she assisted the program to for the women's basketball team. She was a twitter.com/sportspagedfw tradition of success. I can't wait to lead our a 204-18 overall record and a 102-6 mark team captain and earned Defensive Player women's basketball program back to that in Big 12 play. She recruited and coached of the Year honors while leading the facebook.com/sportspageweek- championship level. Wilson arrives on 40 All-Conference selections, as well as Jaspers to an NCAA Tournament berth and the Hilltop after two seasons with the three Big 12 Players of the Year, three a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Publisher Contact Us Defensive Players of the Year, two championship in 2003. Sports Page Publishing Group, Main Number (214) 683-1469 Michigan women's basketball program, LLC P.O. Box 820813 Freshman/Newcomers of the Year and 10 Wilson is the mother of one son, Kash. [email protected] Dallas, Tx. 75382 www.sportspagedfw.com NCAA - Top 25 Coaches (Week 6) NCBWA Dic Humphrey, Tom Ward, Bo WEEKLY CALENDAR Carter, Richard Pollak, Robert 1. Vanderbilt 1. Vanderbilt Cortinez. James McAnally 2. Arkansas 2. Mississippi State 3. Ole Miss 3. Arkansas APRIL APRIL APRIL APRIL APRIL APRIL APRIL 4. Texas Tech 4. Texas Tech 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 5. Louisville 5. 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4 April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 32 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com RANGERS WITH DIC HUMPHREY Rangers lose shootout

score from second base on a . Third the team. Woodward did say that they are base coach was not available committed to Lowe even though Guzman Thursday. He had been away from the team is the better defender. Lowe, who just on a personal matter. He was in Kansas .205 in the Cactus League started Thursday City Thursday but had not been cleared of in front of Guzman, who hit .308. He went the COVID protocols to rejoin the team. 2-6 in the game and drove in four runs. He will be available this weekend. The final roster spot came down to a The teams are off on Friday and then decision on whether to add a 14th resume the series on Saturday. Kohei or to go with a position player. The Arihara is scheduled to start Saturday’s Rangers ultimately decided on a pitcher game for Texas. He will face former and recalled , who had already Ranger Mike Minor. been optioned to AAA Round Rock. They On Sunday, the Rangers will roll out are likely pleased with the decision now their first “piggyback” game. that they needed seven to get will start to be followed by . through eight in game one. The idea is for these two pitchers to pitch Delino DeShields did not no more than two times through the lineup. make the team but has chosen to stay with Brady Singer is K. C.’s scheduled starter. the Rangers organization. He has reported The roster was finalized earlier in the to the Rangers’ alternate site in Round week. There is usually a surprise, but this Rock. year’s surprise was more surprising than Teams will again have a taxi squad of usual. is no longer a five players to travel with the team on road Ranger. Odor was displaced at second base trips. These players will be available in by Nick Solack and had seen most of his case of an injury during a road series. The Cactus League action at third base. It had Rangers’ initial taxi squad is outfielder been assumed by most of the beat writers Adolis Garcia, pitchers and that Odor would start the season as the reg- Hyeon-jong Yang, Anderson Kansas City took a 10-8 lead in the fourth in route to a 14-10 win ular . As the writers wrapped Tejeda and Drew Butera. (One of up the post-game interview last Sunday the taxi squad members must be a catcher.) after the final game in Arizona, one asked On the bad side of the player ledger, the mark. The game time was 4:26. It was not if Odor was on the roster. Chris fear about Jose Leclerc came true. He did pretty, and it was the longest nine inning Woodward replied that he could not answer require Surgery, which was game ever on opening day. that which was the first clue that something performed in Dallas this past Wednesday. With two dozen runs scored, there are a was up. By mid-day Monday, the Rangers He will be lost for the season. number of notable offensive performances. announced that Odor was no longer a President Biden spoke Wednesday celebrated his 27th birthday Ranger. It was surely a difficult pill to before the season began criticizing the with three hits. also hit safely swallow as Odor is owed $27.7 million Rangers for opening their stadium to 100% three times. drove in four runs. over the final two seasons of his current occupancy. “I think it’s a mistake,” Biden The Rangers collected 15 hits Ð three dou- contract. Odor will surely garner interest said. “They should listen to Dr. (Anthony) bles all in the first inning, and 12 singles. BY DIC HUMPHREY from other teams. The likelihood is that Fauci, the scientists and experts. But I They did manage to strike out 16 times, led Odor will clear waivers, as a team claiming think it’s not responsible.” Rangers’ [email protected] by with four MEMBER: USBWA him on waivers would become obligated President of Baseball Operations Jon (commonly referred to as the “golden som- for his salary. After he clears waivers and Daniels was not pleased with the criticism. brero”), in five at bats. He was the only becomes a free agent, he can be signed at In reality, the team has debt service to pay The first five Ranger batters of the sea- starting position player in the game that did son scored Thursday afternoon in Kansas the minimum wage under the current col- on a new $1.2 billion stadium and needs not reach base. lective bargaining agreement ($570,500), the money from the crowds. Monday’s City. Texas managed to score five more Royals’ Brad Kelly was runs in the game, but it was not enough to with the Rangers paying the rest. The like- home opening game is not yet a sellout, not much better than Gibson. He retired lihood is that the Rangers will receive and Daniels doubts there will be close to overcome a dreadful pitching performance just five batters before being lifted in the from half the Rangers’ 14 man pitching around $1.2 million to offset what Odor is 100% occupancy after Monday’s game. second inning. Neither starting pitcher last- owed. Rangers CEO Neil Liebman commented, staff. Opening day starting pitcher Kyle ing two innings was another first for open- Gibson retired just one batter as Kansas The move was made official Thursday “With all the protocols that we’re fol- ing day, when teams usually start their best morning prior to the opening day game. lowing, we’ll be extremely responsible and City also saw their first five batters of the pitcher. season score. Texas explained the reasoning for making provide a very comfortable environment Gibson’s downfall was greatly attributa- the move indicating that Odor was not in for somebody to enjoy the game without The Royals took a 10-8 lead in the ble to control issues. He walked three bat- fourth inning, that they never relinquished the team’s long term plans, so they might worrying we’re going to be a spreader ters in a row to open the door for the first as well send him on his way now. With the event.” in route to a 14-10 win over the Rangers. inning uprising by the Royals that tied the took the loss. Carlos Hernandez move, becomes the regular NOTABLE game. The bullpen was not any better. The third baseman, and Charley Culberson - FOX Sports Southwest that televises went three innings, the most for any pitcher seven pitchers combined to walk eight bat- in the game to earn the win. Wade Davis made the team as the backup infielder, most of the Ranger games is now known as ters and hit two more to give K. C. 10 free though Woodward has not committed to Bally Sports Southwest. They claim view- earned the for K.C. baserunners. That is a big reason why the Both teams used seven pitchers. The 14 Holt getting most of the playing time. ers will see little difference in the presenta- Royals scored two touchdowns. However, since Holt bats left and most tion and term the change a “re-branding” pitchers combined to throw 402 pitches, The Rangers were guilty of sloppy base which included a whopping 78 pitches in pitchers throw right, he appears in line for of the network. running too. Two runners were gunned more playing time at third base. - MLB has informed teams that this year’s the first inning, which took 50 minutes to down at home plate in the first three play. Both teams reached the 200 pitch With the injuries, the door was open for amateur draft will be 20 rounds. innings. Isiah Kiner-Falefa also failed to Ronald Guzman and Nate Lowe to make

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 32 | April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 5 GOLF WITH TOM WARD Learning to take things “Day by Day”

me cope. I have music playing while exer- workout. There’s a lot of stuff from the ing with whatever life throws at you. cising or driving in my car. I’ve read a 70’s I love like southern country rock and Taking control of what’s going on around number of studies on how music can stim- Jackson Browne, Crosby, Stills and Nash you and how to react to it is the key to suc- ulate the mind. Music can raise someone's and a lot of the oldies. What I like about cess in empowering you to be your best. mood, get them excited, or make them country music is they tell good stories. I’m doing everything I can with the calm and relaxed. Research has shown that There was an era of music in the 60’s and treatments prescribed by my doctor, along listening to music can reduce anxiety, fend early 70’s that really was a renaissance. I with efforts on nutrition, exercise, faith and off depression, blood pressure, and pain as listen to stuff now that is all electronic and staying positive. By taking things ‘day by well as improve sleep quality, mental alert- it doesn’t do a whole lot for me. day’ my goal is to one day be able to play a ness, and memory. It can also improve There is no doubt that music is a pow- round of golf again cancer free, which TOM WARD blood flow in ways similar to statins, low- erful force in our lives. So when things get would be glorious music to my ears. Happy [email protected] ering your levels of stress-related hor- hurried or chaotic in your life take a Easter everyone! mones like cortisol. momentary pause to help slow things Tom Ward can be contacted at www.tee- In golf, one of the oldest cliché’s in the Like a lot of people, I put together a down. Listening to music can help in deal- timewithtom.com game is, “one shot at a time”. It’s really all music playlist. I have an eclectic taste in about staying in the present. Having music as I enjoy all the different musical thoughts about your past performances or genres. One song that I have on my playlist the future endeavors while you’re on the is from the classic musical “Godspell”. It’s golf course can result in added tension, loss called “Day by Day” which was sung by of focus, increased heart rate and ultimate- actress Robin Lamont in the 1973 film. ly higher scores. Our minds perform their Robin is one of the original cast members. best when they they are quiet, and focused The song reached #13 in the Billboard pop on the task at hand (like getting ready to singles chart in the summer of 1972. hit a shot) in the present moment. Recently, I spoke with Robin, who’s an There is another important idiom called, accomplished writer. Her last book was a “day by day.” Described by the Merriam- real page turner called “The Experiment.” Webster dictionary: As to make progress in These days she’s working on a pilot for a slow and careful way by dealing with a series called ‘The Activist.” It’s about an each day as it comes. international group (smilar to Mission We would all like to be able to Impossible) that reunite to fight rhino approach life in this manner, however with poaching in South Africa. She’s also trying our hectic lifestyles sometimes that proves to adapt some of these ideas about activism to be quite challenging. especially about animals onto the screen. When I was first diagnosed with Cancer TW: Tell me how it came to be that you in August of 2019 everything in my life were the one chosen to sing the iconic song came to complete stop. Suddenly, ‘day by Day by Day? day’ took on a whole new meaning. Once I RL: Our music composer Steven Schwartz confronted my fears and met with my will deny this, but I think he chose me oncologist he devised a game plan on how because he wanted one of the five women to combat this cancer (multiple myeloma). in the cast to sing it. I think it was because There is no cure for what I have, so I’m of my vocal range which wasn’t great. I learning to live with it in peace and will guess he liked the sound of my voice and continue to fight this horrible disease. he thought it would match the song. I’m I continue to go weekly for chemo pleased about it because I was an actor and treatments and am responding well. The not a professional singer. As time went on, doctor is encouraged by my progress as I like the recording on the film score better things are trending in a positive direction. than the original score. My understanding In the past year, I’ve started walking on was when they cast the film ‘Godspell’ the the treadmill at home to build up stamina director wanted someone else in my part. and I no longer have to use a cane to get However, both Stephen and John- Michael around. I’ve had to change my diet by eat- Tebelas said, “No, you’ve got to take ing more vegetables, proteins and less Robin. She is the voice that is associated sugar (which is difficult). Also, I’ve been with the hit version of that song.” slowly working out again with weights and TW: These days do you get much feed- light stretching in our home gym. back about that song from people? Playing golf had to go on the back RL: Nothing can make me happier to burner. The cancer was in my pelvic region know that the song is meaningful to so and bones had deteriorated to the point that many people. I get comments on my they could break. Once the Covid-19 pan- Facebook page with some regularity about demic hit I had to stop teaching in person that song and how helpful it has been for all-together. I had no defense against the people. virus because of a weakened immune sys- TW: What kind of music do you enjoy lis- tem from Chemo treatments . tening to? During these past few turbulent months, RL: I kind of the gamut. I have a play music is something I turned to in helping list that I put together for when I bike and

6 April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 32 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com GOLF PGA TOUR The First Look: Valero Texas Open

to change). PGA TOUR winner Sergio with three birdies in a row on Nos. 10-12 Garcia assisted Greg Norman of the design and added three more for good measure on of the AT&T Oaks course at TPC San the back nine to close with a 6-under 66 Antonio. The course features rolling and finish at 20-under for the week. greens, tree-lined fairways, only 100 feet Hoffman, a past champion at Valero, ended of elevation change and was carved out of up at 18-under, while Ryan Moore (after rocky San Antonio Hill Country terrain. tied for the low round of the week Sunday, 72-HOLE RECORD: 254, Tommy an 8-under 64) finished a shot back and Armour III (2003 at La Cantera). TPC San solo third. Brian Stuard and Si Woo Kim Antonio record: 268, Corey Conners (2019). rounded out the top five, finishing at -15. 18-HOLE RECORD: 60, Bart Bryant (3rd round, 2004 at La Cantera), Zach HOW TO FOLLOW Johnson (3rd round, 2009 at La Cantera). Television: Thurs.-Friday, 3-6 p.m. (Golf TPC San Antonio record: 62, Trey Channel). Saturday, 12-2:30 p.m. (Golf Mullinax (3rd round, 2018) Channel), 2:30-5 p.m. (NBC). Sunday, 1- LAST TIME: It was truly a tale of two 2:30 p.m.(Golf Channel),1:30-5 p.m. (NBC). nines for Corey Conners in the final round PGA TOUR LIVE: Thursday-Friday, in 2019, the last time the Valero Texas 8:15 a.m.- 7 p.m. (Featured Groups). Open was contested. But in the end the Saturday, 8:15 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (Featured Canadian was victorious by two over Groups), 3:30 p.m.-6 p.m.(Featured Holes). Ð and punched the final Sunday, 8:15 a.m.-2:30 p.m. (Featured ticket to the Masters after Monday qualify- Groups), 2:30 p.m.-6 p.m.(Featured Holes). ing for the Valero earlier in the week. On Radio: Thursday-Friday, 1-7 p.m. Sunday, Conners birdied four of his first Saturday-Sunday, 1-6 p.m. (PGA TOUR Corey Conners earns first PGA TOUR victory at Valero five holes but gave them all back with Radio on SiriusXM and PGATOUR. bogeys from Nos. 6-9. He bounced back com/liveaudio).

Spieth, other past Masters champs in the Valero field include Phil Mickelson, Zach Johnson, and Danny Willett ... Sponsor exemptions include Sam Bennett, Austin Eckroat, Mac Meissner of SMU, and 18- year-old Akshay Bhatia. Eckroat, who was named to the 2021 Walker Cup team, fin- ished T12 in this season’s Mayakoba Golf Valero Texas Open Classic presented by UNIFIN. Bhatia has April 1 - April 4, 2021 made the cut in three of five starts this sea- TPC San Antonio son, including a T9 at the Safeway Open San Antonio, Texas … Other notables who are looking to keep Purse - $7,700,000 rising in the FedExCup standings with a Winners share: 1,386,000 start at TPC San Antonio include Tony Defending Champ - Corey Conners Finau, Abraham Ancer, and Hideki Matsuyama. By Adam Stanley FEDEXCUP: Winner receives 500 PGATOUR.COM FedExCup points. Corey Conners returns to defend his STORYLINES: Will someone else follow maiden PGA TOUR title as the Valero in Corey Conners’ footsteps and go from Texas Open returns to the TOUR schedule Monday to Masters? There are four spots after being cancelled in 2020 due to open for a to try to do COVID-19. just that … The Valero is the final opportu- FIELD NOTES: Dustin Johnson, the nity for someone to win a TOUR event and reigning FedExCup champion, was a late punch his ticket to Augusta National. Some entrant and will return to the Valero Texas still looking for their invite for 2021, and Open for the first time since 2015, when he who are in the field at TPC San Antonio, finished T6. Johnson made his PGA TOUR include: Rickie Fowler (who hasn’t missed debut as a sponsor exemption in 2007 at the Masters since 2010), 2016 Valero win- the same event ... Jordan Spieth will make ner Charley Hoffman, FedExCup champi- one more start in his run-up to the Masters ons and Jim Furyk, and and return to TPC San Antonio. He fin- Canadian TOUR winners Adam Hadwin ished T30 in 2019, his first start at Valero and Nick Taylor (hoping to follow in since 2015 when he finished runner-up ... Conners’ footsteps from 2019) … The Corey Conners will finally have a chance Valero Texas Open was first contested in to defend his 2019 title. That year Conners 1922, making it one of the longest-running became the first golfer to go from Monday events on TOUR. Qualifier to TOUR winner since 2010 ... COURSE: TPC San Antonio (AT&T Besides Johnson, who will defend his Oaks), par 72, 7,494 yards (yardage subject Masters title the following week, and

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 32 | April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 7 A competitive field in this years VTO

five of six after P2 to Jon Rahm at The American Express. Notables: Trey Mullinax (not entered; T2) posted the course record, 62, in Round 3. ... Sean O'Hair (T2) closed 65-66. ... 2015 champi- on and local Jimmy Walker (4th) posted all four rounds in the red. ... Zach Johnson (5th) shared the 54-hole lead on 13-under with Landry. ... Ryan Moore (7th) co-led after 18 and 36 holes and was bogey-free. ... Chris Kirk (T8) posted 66, his best at Valero, in Round 2. ...Andrew Putnam (T8) picked up his best finish from three starts. ... Chesson Hadley (T20) and Keegan Bradley (T48) shared the first round lead with Moore on 68. ... Defending champion Kevin Chappell cashed T30. ... Cut was 1- over. ... There has never been a multiple winner of this event at The Oaks Course. 2017: Kevin Chappell (-12, 276) Picks up his first TOUR win in start No. 180. ... Defeated Brooks Koepka (not Tony Finau will be one to watch this week in San Antonio. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images) entered) by a shot with a birdie on the final hole. ... 26 players began Sunday five shots By Mike Glasscott never won on TOUR before. The three breezy conditions. ... Scott Brown (T7) back of his 54-hole lead. ... Converted his PGATOUR.COM events prior churned out winning scores of picked up his first top 25 in his sixth try. ... first 54-hole lead on TOUR. ... Chappell If these boots are made for walking 12-under, 12-under and 11-under. Matt Kuchar (T7) ranked in the top four in and Koepka only two players double digits they won't have too far to go as the TOUR A pair of custom made boots plus both Fairways and GIR. ... Dallas resident under par. ... Backed up his T4 from 2016. remains in Texas but shifts from Austin to $1.386 million and 500 FedExCup points Danny Lee (T7) and Adam Schenk (T7) ... Cashed his third top five in eight starts at San Antonio. TPC San Antonio and the await the winner from a purse of $7.7 mil- rounded out the top 10. ... Cut was 1-under. Valero. ... Previous start was two weeks Oaks Course will host for the 11th time lion. There's never been a playoff in 10 ... 20 bogey-free rounds. ... First time the prior with T7 at the Masters. since the event relocated here for the 2010 previous editions but the field of 144 will event played below par (71.242). ... No Notables: edition after missing out in 2020 to try and emulate Corey Conners and his player has ever successfully defended as Tony Finau (T3) posted the low round COVID-19. masterful performance from the 2019 Andrew Landry MC. ... There has never of the week with 65 in Round 2 and held This is the third oldest event (non- edition. been a playoff required to determine a the 36 hole lead. ... Veteran Brian Gay (T6) major) on TOUR after the Western Open Recent Winners and Notables champion. picked up his second top 10 in eight visits. (now BMW) and . Dating 2019: Corey Conners (-20, 268) 2018: Andrew Landry (-17, 271) ... Texan Ryan Palmer (T6) played the final back to 1922, it's the longest running event Canadian picked up his first TOUR win Texan picked up his first TOUR win in 54 holes in 9-under. ... First round leader in one city so history is part of the back- in his 51st start. ... Won by two after start- his 32nd start as he won by two. ... Set the Branden Grace (T10) backed up his T9 drop this week. ing one shot back in the final group. ... tournament scoring record. ... Became the from 2016. ... In his last visit Camilo So is the weather. Fired 66 on Sunday, which included TEN third first-time winner in the last five. .... Villegas (T10) picked up his only top 10. ... The forecast this week suggests mild birdies. ... Set the tournament scoring First 54-hole lead or co-lead. ... Only play- Defending champion Charley Hoffman conditions and breezes that fall into the record by three shots. ... Circled 29 birdies, er to sign for all four rounds in the 60s. ... (T40) picked up, at the time, his worst "normal" range this time of year. Greg seven more than second best for another Bogey-free 67 in Round 3 pushed him into check at the event. ... Only two rounds in Norman, with help from player consultant record. ... Only player to post all four the final pairing. ... T51 on debut in only the 60s on Saturday. ... Only one bogey- Sergio Garcia, created a rough and tumble rounds in the 60s. ... Never led after any other attempt. ... Entered the week MC in free round on the weekend. ..Cut was Even. Par-72 which now stretches to almost 7,500 round except the final round. ... Became yards (7,494 for 2021).Wide fairways and the fourth first-time winner in the last six narrow Champion Bermuda greens are events here. ... Became the first Monday both difficult to hit if that Texas wind qualifier to win on TOUR since 2010. ... blows and gusts. With only two inches of Won on his second visit. ... Entered the rough, experiments off the fairway and week MC in five of his last six but had T3 around the greens can be attempted. The at Sony to start the new year. only major course change was adding a Notables: new tee box on No. 5 (342 yards now 401). 2016 winner Charley Hoffman (2nd) Since 2010 these greens have ranked in closed 64-67 for his third podium in 10 the top three as toughest on TOUR to hit. starts. ... Ryan Moore (3rd) led the field in The Oaks Course also has dished out the Fairways and was T3 GIR. ... Si Woo Kim third most TRIPLES or worst scores over (T4) set the 36-hole scoring record and led that same time period. Scoring this week after 18, 36 and 54 holes before 72 on happens on the inward nine so discipline Sunday. ... Brian Stuard (T4) hit the top 25 and patience will be needed early in the for the first time in six starts. ... Byeong- rounds. Hun An (T7) posted one of the two rounds The last two events have had mild con- ABOVE par from the top 15 players. ... ditions and the tournament record was set Graeme McDowell (T7) followed his win and then broken by two players who had at Corales with another strong finish in

8 April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 32 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com MLB MLB SEASON PREVIEW Season Preview

season, Martinez slumped to a .680 O.P.S. and a career-low .213 average. Boston fans know their history, so they’re praying for a different type of cen- tury than the 1900s, which started with a flurry of titles but was doomed by the trade of a transcendent star who quickly led his new team to glory. isn’t , and the Red Sox actually got a solid return for him in their trade with the Dodgers … but the par- allel is chilling. 98: Home runs allowed by the Red Sox in 2020, most in M.L.B. 5. The return of Trey Mancini is a genuine cause for celebration. Mancini, 29, learned he had Stage 3 colon cancer last March and missed the season. He got a standing ovation from the small crowd at his debut, and will surely earn another at the Orioles’ home on April 8. Mancini batted .291 with 35 homers in 2019. Only true die-hards could name more than a few Orioles. The team hopes that Reasons for optimism and pessimism bullpen that lost Adam Ottavino in a trade 3. and Austin abound. Catch up with where each team to the Red Sox. For all of their promise, The Blue Jays did what they promised, Hays can be part of the long-term founda- stands ahead of opening day. Kluber and Taillon have combined for one spending on free agents with their home- tion, and starters Keegan Akin and Dean inning in the majors since May 2019. And grown core coming of age. They signed Kremer will get every chance to join them. By Tyler Kepner the Yankees’ lineup always looks strong in outfielder for six years But the Orioles have gone nearly 40 years In baseball these days, it’s all about per- theory, but keeping it healthy is an annual and $150 million and Marcus without a , and they won’t win ception and percentage. As the country stirs challenge. Semien for one year and $18 million. With another one soon. cautiously back to normal life, each ball- 33: Regular-season games, of a possible Teoscar Hernandez and a celebrated quartet 5.29: E.R.A. by the Orioles since 2018, park comes with its own set of pandemic 222, in which both and of second-generation hitters — Bo highest in M.L.B. restrictions: 12 percent capacity at Fenway have played since 2019. Bichette, Cavan Biggio, Vladimir Guerrero Central Park in Boston, 25 percent capacity at 2. Jr. and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. — the Blue 1. Marlins Park in Miami — even (gulp) 100 When last we saw Randy Arozarena, he Jays’ offense will be dangerous. “It’s not about the past wins, it’s about percent capacity for the opener at Globe was all but unstoppable, hitting .377 with Still barred from playing in Canada, the the next ones,” said the new Chicago man- Life Field in Arlington, Texas. 10 homers in 20 postseason games. His Blue Jays will stage home games at their ager, , who has 2,728 career Interpreting those figures is up to you. development will be fascinating, especially spring training park, tucked into a cozy victories and is poised to add a lot more. If you root for the World Series champions, as one of few everyday players in the neighborhood in Dunedin, Fla. They may The White Sox have a blend of savvy, are you happy that will be Rays’ mix-and-match offense, which return to Toronto at some point, but over a dependable veterans — first baseman Jose partially open for fans? Or are you returns almost fully intact from the World 162-game grind, the lack of a stable home Abreu, fresh off an M.V.P. season, starters bummed that only 20 percent of a typical Series. Starters and Charlie base could wear them down. They’re also Dallas Keuchel and , crowd will be allowed to witness Kershaw Morton are gone, but both averaged fewer relying on notoriously erratic starting — and young stars entering finally slipping on a championship ring? than five innings per start last season, and pitchers, they’ve already lost their project- their prime. The continued development of In that conflicted spirit, here’s a look the Rays always seem to find quality ed closer, , to a serious elbow that group, including Tim around the majors and our take on how innings from unlikely sources. As you read injury, and Springer is slowed by a strained Anderson and Yoan Moncada, outfielder each division will pan out. this, they’re probably making a waiver left oblique. Luis Robert and starter Lucas Giolito, claim on a guy with two Tommy John scars 42: Pounds lost by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. gives La Russa, 76, a chance to become the 1. Yankees who throws 99 miles an hour. between July 2020 and the start of 2021 first manager to win championships with Expect the Yankees’ stacked lineup to Arozarena can’t possibly be as electric spring training. three teams. regularly punish the dubious pitching staffs for six months as he was last October; he’s 4. The fourth starter, Dylan Cease, led the of the Orioles, Red Sox and Blue Jays. still a rookie, technically, and he’ll have to Young hitters like Alex Verdugo and A.L. in walks last season, and the fifth Every hitter can slug, and even with first adjust as pitchers hunt for weaknesses. Bobby Dalbec offer hope for the future, starter, Carlos Rodon, has been slowed in baseman expected to miss a Were the Rays wise to spread $13.8 million and some old friends return — Eduardo recent years by shoulder and elbow surger- month, there’s no weak spot provided among the veteran pitchers Chris Archer, Rodriguez should be back in the starting ies. The White Sox tend to hit their way on catcher Gary Sanchez follows his pattern of Rich Hill, Collin McHugh and Michael rotation soon after missing last season with base, which is a fun approach to watch, but making the All-Star team every odd season. Wacha, or should they have just picked up myocarditis, a result of contracting the a bit more patience might help — they The best version of their top three starters Morton’s $15 million option? They tend to coronavirus; Chris Sale should be back this ranked 24th in walks among the 30 teams — , and Jameson know what they’re doing but fair question. summer from Tommy John surgery; and last season, and all the teams below them Taillon — would give the Yankees an 1: Farm system ranking by Baseball J.D. Martinez will again had losing records. imposing rotation, too. America, led by shortstop Wander Franco, be allowed to watch in-game video thanks 183: Runs batted in by the A.L. M.V.P. ’s elbow surgery weakens a the No. 1 overall prospect. to a rule change by M.L.B. Without it last Jose Abreu since 2019, most in M.L.B.

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 32 | April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 9 son from the still-fascinating , who sizzled in spring training on the mound and at the plate. Injuries have limited Ohtani to just 12 career starts with a 4.39 E.R.A., but now the Angels want the full Ohtani experience, with plans to use him as a hitter even on days he pitches. Add Ohtani to and the incomparable , and the Angels have three of the game’s most dynamic players. The Angels plan to use six starting pitchers, which is quite ambitious for a team that struggles every year to find two or three. In the six seasons since the Angels’ last playoff appearance, in 2014, their starters have compiled just 37.1 wins above replacement (as calculated by Fan- graphs), the fewest of any team in the majors. They’re counting on Dylan Bundy, , , , Jose Quintana and Ohtani to reverse that trend. The Oakland A’s will fortify a team seeking its fourth playoff appearance in a row 1,185: Draft spot in 2015 of first baseman , who hit .337 with nine 2. * (wild card) play behind the -winner Shane in a row and hoping that starters Jesus homers last September. Andrelton Simmons, a four-time Gold Bieber and other talented starters who Luzardo and A.J. Puk — highly touted left- 4. Glove shortstop, arrives to shore up a weak should keep most games competitive. ies who lived and trained together over the Kyle Lewis was the A.L. spot in the Twins’ defense. The new closer, After shedding Corey Kluber, Trevor winter — blossom into aces. rookie of the year last season, and a pair of Alex Colome, has been durable and domi- Bauer, Mike Clevinger, Carlos Carrasco First baseman Matt Olson and third former New York pitching prospects — nant: Since 2016, only , and over 18 months, the staff is baseman Matt Chapman both hit 36 home (Yankees) and Justin Dunn and have a bound to suffer eventually, and there’s sim- runs while winning a Gold Glove in 2019. (Mets) — looked solid in 10 starts apiece. better E.R.A. and more appearances among ply no replacing shortstop Francisco Last season, though, Olson hit just .195 The top outfield prospects Julio Rodriguez, active pitchers than Colome (275 games, Lindor, who was traded with Carrasco to and Chapman needed surgery to repair a 20, and Jarred Kelenic, 21, are eager to 2.62 E.R.A.). The returning , the Mets. With an A.L.-low projected pay- torn right hip labrum. Can they resume make their mark in Seattle. Josh Donaldson, Miguel Sano & Co. will roll of $62.6 million, it’s clear where this their upward trajectory - and can Andrus “Half empty” roughly describes T- keep the Twins an elite slugging team. team is headed. In the words of the Rock & be a viable hitter again? In the last three Mobile Park, which welcomed an average Always solid as a Dodger, Roll Hall of Famer John Lennon: “It’ll be seasons, his on-base percentage is a meager of 43,200 fans per game in the team’s last was a revelation in his first A.L. season, just like starting over.” .306. playoff season, 2001, but just 22,112 in placing second in voting for the Cy Young .895: O.P.S. by Jose Ramirez since 2016, 11: Playoff appearances in the 2000s for 2019. The team must repair trust with fans Award. But is that who he really is? If it’s best among M.L.B. switch-hitters. the A’s, more than every other A.L. team and players after the former chief executive not, the Twins might not have the pitching 5. except the Yankees (17). Kevin Mather’s infamous Rotary Club to keep up with the White Sox, who have The Tigers seem to be making the most 2. Astros* (wild card) speech in February, when he exposed the passed Minnesota for overall talent of their years in obscurity. According to The Astros lost their best player from organization’s strategy of keeping prospects throughout the roster. MLB.com rankings, they have five of the 2020, George Springer, but welcome back in the minors unless they sign long-term, 137: Wins by the Twins since 2019, most game’s top 25 prospects, including starter designated hitter Yordan Alvarez, the 2019 team-friendly contracts. in the A.L. Casey Mize and infielder Spencer A.L. rookie of the year, who had knee sur- 36: Wins by Marco Gonzales since 2018, 3. Torkelson, both former No. 1 overall picks. gery last summer and played just two trailing only Gerrit Cole and The shortstop prospect Bobby Witt Jr., They’ll add to their crop with the No. 3 games. A finger injury to lefty Framber 5. 20, was a spring training sensation, and the overall pick this summer as Miguel Valdez was not as serious as first feared, It took until their 50th season in Texas, Royals won’t hesitate to call him up when Cabrera (487 homers, 2,866 hits) chases and as an added bonus, it motivated the but the Rangers can finally welcome fans he’s ready. The team can hit for power down milestones in his 19th major league Astros to sign , an All-Star inside to see them play during the hot sum- (, Hunter Dozier, Salvador season. for the Twins in 2019. Valdez’s eventual mer months. Their retractable-roof ballpark Perez) and steal bases (Andrew Benintendi, The team’s new manager, A.J. Hinch, return will deepen the group. opened amid the pandemic and hosted fans Whit Merrifield, Adalberto Mondesi), and has seen the worst of the Tigers as a back- The ace starter Justin Verlander will for neutral-site postseason games only. Brady Singer has ace potential. up catcher with their 119-loss team in probably miss the season as he recovers The Rangers have never won the World The Royals acted aggressively to 2003. They’ve already reached the nadir of from Tommy John surgery, the untested Series, yet they’ve also never endured a improve the team, but most of the newcom- their current reconstruction (114 losses in Myles Straw takes over for Springer in streak of five losing seasons since the ers struggled last season, including Mike 2019), but it isn’t quite over: Only one center, and while the Astros looked strong 1960s, when they were the Washington Minor, Benintendi, Wade Davis, Carlos newcomer (outfielder Grossman) received a in October, mainstays like Jose Altuve, Senators. They open this season with a Santana and Michael A. Taylor. Like so multiyear contract over the off-season. and Yuli Gurriel — who streak of four that seems likely to grow; the many other players around the league, .349: Average by Willi Castro in 2020, combined to hit .230 last season — must team made only marginal improvements to they’ll trust in their track records and try to fourth in M.L.B. (min.140 plate appearances). prove that their struggles were a collective the A.L.’s worst offense, but did get a dismiss the truncated 2020 season. fluke. Oh, and they’ll be playing with fans promising young starter, , 637: Hits by Whit Merrifield since 2017, 1. in the stands this season, so reminders of from the White Sox for Lance Lynn. most in the A.L. The A’s shopped in bulk for seasoned the 2017 sign-stealing scandal could shad- 40,300: Seats at , which 4. pros with World Series experience, trading ow them on the road. will be open at 100 percent capacity for The team finally has Eddie Rosario on for shortstop Elvis Andrus and signing 459: Career starts by , most opening day. its side. Rosario, the longtime Twins out- closer Trevor Rosenthal, the setup man among active pitchers. East fielder, has hit .353 with 11 home runs in Sergio Romo and first baseman Mitch 3. 1. Braves 45 career games in Cleveland, where he Moreland in late February. They’ll fortify a After three years of mixed results, the The Braves once won 14 division titles signed for one year and $8 million. He’ll team seeking its fourth playoff appearance Angels will try again to get a two-way sea- in a row, and now they’ve started another

10 April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 32 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com are still around, with Scherzer in the last all by himself. They’ll lean heavily on year of his contract and the old pro Jon , 22, a top outfield prospect Lester along for the ride. Outfielder Juan who hit .200 in 35 games last season. Soto, 22, is a breathtaking talent; his .972 Starters and Kwang Hyun on-base plus trails Kim were slowed by injuries in spring only those of Mike Trout, training, and CF will miss and Mookie Betts since 2018. a month with a forearm strain. The offense falls off sharply after Soto 17: Career Gold Gloves for catcher Yadier and . The new first baseman Molina (9) and third baseman Nolan Josh Bell has hit .229 since starting the All- Arenado (8), the only active players with at Star Game in 2019, and , a least eight such awards. Cubs castoff, is coming off his worst sea- 2. son. Corbin led the majors in hits allowed The Brewers added Gold Glovers at last season, and the Nats owe him $107 second base () and center field million for the next four years. (Jackie Bradley Jr.), and Manager Craig 216: Strikeouts needs to Counsell is a master at deploying an array become the 19th pitcher in history with of power arms in just the right situations. 3,000. returns after opting out last summer, and Christian Yelich, is due for a 1. St. Louis Cardinals reset after a mystifying 2020. Two years after plucking one slugging The team finished with a losing record corner infielder from the N.L. West (first last season (29-31), and neither of its top baseman from Arizona), two starters, and Corbin the Cardinals grabbed another in a trade for Burnes, has ever pitched 125 innings in a The Cardinals are picked to win the National League Central third baseman . The stal- major league season. Keston Hiura, a cru- warts and cial bat who slumped badly last season, is streak, with N.L. East crowns in each of last year — except for a historically awful return for their 17th season as teammates, learning first base, where he has never the last three seasons. Last year they fell relief corps, which posted the majors’ and while leadership is hard to define, played in high school, college or the pros. one game short of the World Series and worst bullpen since these two embody it in St. Louis. 11.97: Strikeouts per nine innings by signed Charlie Morton and Drew Smyly to 1930, at 7.06. Things can only get better Only one N.L. team, the Pirates, had a Brewers relievers in 2020, best among join Atlanta’s dynamic young starting rota- with competent seasons from the newcom- worse O.P.S. last season than the M.L.B. bullpens. tion alongside Ian Anderson, Max Fried ers Jose Alvarado, Archie Bradley, Brandon Cardinals’ .694. That figure should rise (continued on page 12) and Mike Soroka, who is working his way Kintzler and Hector Rondon. Offense with Arenado on board, but he can’t do it back from tearing his Achilles’ tendon. won’t be a problem, with hitters like Bryce Their robust offense will provide plenty of Harper, J.T. Realmuto and Rhys Hoskins in support, with Ronald Acuna Jr., a strong their primes and Alec Bohm emerging as candidate to follow as the franchise’s next star third baseman. winner of the N.L.’s Most Valuable Player The Phillies — who haven’t been to the Award. postseason since 2011, longer than any The 1990s Braves won the World Series other N.L. team —need Zach Eflin to build on their fourth postseason attempt of the off his breakout season, because the rota- decade, in 1995, but in this century, tion thins quickly after and October has brought only pain. The Braves Zack Wheeler. They signed lefty Matt have reached the postseason 12 times in the Moore from Japan, but since his All-Star 2000s without breaking through to the season of 2013, his E.R.A. is 5.08. World Series — and this year, they’ll have 49: Games in the 60-game season in which to navigate a division in which every front the Phillies had a lead, second in N.L. to office is actively trying to win. the Dodgers. .832: Team on-base plus slugging percent- 4. age in 2020, best in M.L.B. The Marlins crashed the playoff party 2. * (wild card) last fall, rallying around their status as The Mets got their centerpiece in short- “bottom feeders,” a term applied to them stop , and wisely loaded early by a Phillies analyst, Ricky Bottalico. up on solid role players throughout the ros- The pitchers have terrific stuff, the hitters ter. Nobody in the regular lineup is older can beat teams in several ways, and they than 30, and the team added starters in have clear direction under the chief execu- Marcus Stroman (who opted out of the tive ; last year’s N.L. manager 2020 season after joining the team via of the year, ; and the new trade in 2019), Carlos Carrasco, Taijuan , . Walker and Joey Lucchesi. The Marlins’ big offensive addition, Seth Lugo had elbow surgery in outfielder Adam Duvall, has a meager .293 February, and Carrasco dealt with elbow on-base percentage in seven seasons, and soreness before a hamstring tear sidelined even with a strong bullpen, depth could be him in March. Pete Alonso’s 2020 season an issue with their pitching staff: Only one was a lackluster follow-up to his 53-homer starter, Sandy Alcantara, has ever worked rookie season in 2019, Dom Smith is a more than 120 innings in a season. work in progress in left field and Lindor is 51: Stolen bases in 2020, second in M.L.B. unsigned past this season. to San Diego. 2.10: Jacob deGrom’s E.R.A. since 2018, 5. best in M.L.B. (min. 50 starts). The starters who led the Nationals to 3. Phillies the title - Max Scherzer, The Phillies were actually pretty good and —

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 32 | April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 11 major league season. Keston Hiura, a cru- the best team in baseball, and they finally and the third-year right-hander Zac Gallen Postseason Predictions cial bat who slumped badly last season, is proved it in October with the first World is emerging as a possible ace, with a 2.78 learning first base, where he has never Series title in their eight-year run of divi- E.R.A. in 27 career starts. N.L.C.S. - Dodgers over Braves played in high school, college or the pros. sion crowns. Already overflowing with Gallen is out with a stress fracture in his A.L.C.S. - White Sox over Yankees 11.97: Strikeouts per nine innings by pitching depth, they signed the N.L. Cy forearm, a casualty of a batting practice World Series - Dodgers over White Sox Brewers relievers in 2020, best among Young Award winner, , and session in mid-March. The injury high- Wild Cards: Padres, N.Y Mets M.L.B. bullpens. their fans will finally get to see the lights the shortsightedness of M.L.B. and Pennant: 3. enchanting Mookie Betts in person. the union in using the universal D.H. as a MVP It has been quite a run for infielders You’ll need to buy a new jersey if bargaining tool instead of prioritizing 1. Fernando Tatis Jr., Padres Javier Baez, and Anthony you’ve been representing Enrique pitchers’ health. 2. Ronald Acuña Jr.., Braves Rizzo, who are facing free agency after the Hernandez or , who left as $8.5 million: Total free-agent spending by 3. , Nationals season. They’ve helped the Cubs to five free agents after a final fall flourish. Arizona this off-season (on Asdrubal Cy Young postseason appearances in the last six years Otherwise there’s no reason to worry, Cabrera, and ). 1. , Dodgers with a title in 2016, and now they’ll have except for the presence of the ever-improv- 5. 2. Jacob deGrom, Mets help from outfielder Joc Pederson, the for- ing Padres in the N.L. West. Finishing first In German Marquez, Kyle Freeland and 3. Luis Castillo, Reds mer Dodgers slugger who had a torrid still seems likely, but it won’t be automatic. Antonio Senzatela, the Rockies have three Rookie of the Year spring training. 3: winners (Trevor Bauer, starters, all 26 or 27 years old, who should 1. Ke'Bryan Hayes, Pirates The Cubs dealt the ace starter Yu , David Price) and M.V.P. keep them in games, though Freeland will 2. Dylan Carlson, Cardinals Darvish to San Diego, and their rotation is winners (, Mookie Betts, miss time with a shoulder injury. Jon Gray, 3. Sixto Sanchez, Marlins overloaded with pitch-to-contact right-han- Kershaw) on the Dodgers’ roster. 29, is solid every other year, and he’s due A.L Postseason And Awards ders: , , Trevor 2. * (wild card) for a good one. Austin Gomber, 27, Wild Cards: Twins, Tampa Bay Rays Williams and the returning . If The “hot talent lava” — a term used in acquired from St. Louis in the Nolan Pennant: Chicago White Sox the Cubs stumble, expect trade rumors to 2018 by ’s agent, Scott Boras, Arenado deal, also offers promise. MVP swirl with those winds. to describe the Padres’ potential — now The Rockies have fallen hard since 1. Mike Trout, Angels 6.00: E.R.A. for in two flows freely in San Diego, where fans have signing Arenado to an eight-year contract 2. Tim Anderson, White Sox years with the Cubs (1.91 in previous nine). a team to celebrate in baseball’s only mar- extension in 2019. Years of disastrous deci- 3. Anthony Rendon, Angels 4. Reds ket without N.F.L., N.B.A. or N.H.L. com- sions caught up to them — they lavished Cy Young The Reds made the playoffs last season petition. The Padres have used their farm money on has-beens, but let D.J. LeMahieu 1. Gerrit Cole, Yankees after six losing seasons in a row, and their system to trade for high-impact talent walk — and after trading Arenado in 2. , Indians 3.84 E.R.A. trailed only the Dodgers in the throughout the roster, building a team led February, they face another crossroads with 3. Lucas Giolito, White Sox N.L. Outfielder Jesse Winker gets better by , Fernando Tatis Jr. and the star shortstop , who can be Rookie of the Year and better, and starters Luis Castillo and Hosmer that ranks among the most exciting a free agent after the season. 1. Randy Arozarena, Rays can match up with anyone. in the majors. 191: Extra-base hits for Trevor Story since 2. Alex Kirilloff, Twins If the Reds hope to build off last sea- In one sense, it’s a shame that the 2018, most in M.L.B 3. Ryan Mountcastle, Orioles son, they have a strange way of showing it, Padres’ moment arrives at a time when the chipping away at their strong pitching and majors’ premier franchise resides close by. doubling down on their weak offense. The Dodgers are the best team in the majors Closer was traded to the until proven otherwise, but the Padres — Angels, the Cy Young Award winner Trevor who ooze swagger to go with their talent Bauer signed with the Dodgers as a free — will make this a must-watch rivalry. agent, and after hitting .212 as a team dur- 53.4: Percentage of ’s ing the regular season — and scoring no pitches that were sliders in 2020, highest runs in their two playoff games — the slider usage among M.L.B. starters since Reds mostly left the offense intact. 2008. Lamet is working his way back from 0: sacrifice bunts by the Reds in 2020 an elbow injury. (Milwaukee and Tampa Bay also had none). 3. 5. Pirates The Giants stayed in the playoff hunt Whether the Pirates are good or bad until their 60th and final game last season, (and they’re going to be really bad), you a nice surprise after three years as an also- can’t beat the ambience of PNC Park, per- ran. They retained starter , haps the most picturesque setting for a who looked sharp last season, and gave a ballgame in all of Major League Baseball. three-year deal to infielder Tommy La Also, a full season of Ke’Bryan Hayes, Stella, a rare contact hitter with pop (21 Charlie’s son, should be fun. Hayes, a 24- homers and just 40 strikeouts across 135 year-old third baseman, made his debut last games the last two seasons). Sept. 1 and batted .376. The last pillars of the Giants’ champi- Remember how hopeless things seemed onship years — , Brandon in Pittsburgh for two decades after Barry Belt and Brandon Crawford — all reach Bonds left for San Francisco? Last year’s the end of their contracts in 2021. The 19-41 fiasco produced the Pirates’ worst Giants hold an option on Posey for 2022, winning percentage (.317) since 1952 — but they could shed more than $100 million and at least that team talked a good game, in expiring contracts after this season. With with Ralph Kiner and Joe Garagiola in the the Dodgers and the Padres so strong, the lineup. These Pirates did little to improve Giants are essentially biding time until a over the winter, trading veterans for possible spending spree as a springboard to prospects and waiting for better days. contention. 5: No. 1 overall picks for the Pirates, 1.015: O.P.S. by Brandon Belt in 2020, including 2021, in the last 40 years (most best in N.L. West. in M.L.B.). 4. looked good for 1. Los Angeles Dodgers most of spring training after struggling in No more qualifiers — the Dodgers are his debut season with the Diamondbacks,

12 April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 32 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com COLLEGES WITH BO CARTER College Football News and Notes

Tuggle, Spalding County, Ga.; April 5 spring sports last week after a March 1-22 (1871) , Springville, N.Y.; delay due to COVID-19 circumstances... (1951) Brad Van Pelt, Owosso, Mich. …Some key weekend results in NCAA Notable anniversary death dates for FCS contests from March 26-28 were No. Hall of Famers are March 31 (1931) Knute 1 James Madison over William & Mary 38- Rockne, Bazaar, Kan.; (1952) Bo 10, No. 3 Weber State downing Northern McMillin, Bloomington, Ind.; April 1 Arizona 28-23, a 35-28 upset of No. 9 (1996) Bob Hamilton, Palm Springs, Calif.; Chattanooga by Mercer, and Missouri (2013) Jack Pardee, Centennial, Colo.; State’s 30-27 upending of Southern Illinois (2015) Eddie LeBaron, Stockton, Calif.; in Missouri Valley Football Conference April 3 (1994) Tom Hamilton, Chula Vista, activity. Calif.; (2007) Eddie Robinson, Ruston, The University of North Texas launched La.; April 4 (1989) Harvey Jablonsky, San the interdisciplinary Center for Racial and Antonio, Texas; April 5 (1993) Skip Ethnic Equity in Health and Society with McCain, Princess Anne, Md.; (1996) Frank several UNT student-athletes participating Hoffman, Potomac, Md. in the program…Newest inductees into the Happy birthdays to NFF College Hall Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame in of Fame members March 30 Lomas Nashville are Tennessee football standout Brown, March 31 Bob Anderson (a spry Bill Bates, UT football-baseball star Todd 83), Ed Marinaro, April 1 , Helton, Tennessee basketball standout April 2 Dr. Bill McColl (a spry 91), Danny Reggie Johnson, president of U.S. Soccer 2020 newcomer and UCLA All-America QB Cade McNown Ford, Don McPherson, April 4 Ed White, Cindy Parlow Cone, former Middle John Hannah, Jessie Tuggle. Tennessee football defensive standout Mike college in in the movie, and Ms. Coastal Carolina and Gardner-Webb Caldwell, East Tennessee State basketball Arden says: “What about SMU, Santa will meet in 2022…Murray State complet- star Tommy Woods, Vanderbilt trailblazer Clara and those private schools? They all ed its 2021 autumn slate with a contest and first Black scholarship women’s bas- have great football programs.” against Mississippi Valley State of the ketball player in 1978-79 Cathy Bender, Nationally award-winning sports writer Southwestern Athletic Conference…Two women’s basketball coaching legend Mary Dave Kindred, retired from Louisville SWAC contests postponed by COVID-19 Lou Johns, and wheelchair basketball (Ky.) Courier-Journal and the Washington conditions have been rescheduled with champion Brandon Rowland…Some of the Post, was featured on CBS’ 60 Minutes for Alabama A&M at Prairie View A&M on stellar high school scholar-athletes with his continuance of daily writing and April 3 and Prairie View A&M at Jackson diverse backgrounds at the Gridiron Club columns on the Morton (Ill.) High School State reset for April 24…Midwestern State of Dallas (Texas) Awards Program were for the last 10 years and for contributing to and Texas A&M-Commerce of the Lone RB Jake Taylor of Dallas Jesuit HS Ð his national publications on golf, basketball Star Conference will play the first NCAA school’s 2021 valedictorian and a leader in and . Division II football contest at refurbished numerous student organizations; Dallas BO CARTER NFF College Hall of Fame Facts Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas, Sept. Covenant HS QB Ben Spangler Ðfollowing [email protected] Some notable birthdates in NFF 11...Kennesaw State-Gardner-Webb’s foot- in the NFF Tri-Founder Grantland Rice’s College Hall of Fame annals in the March ball contest was postponed last Saturday college tradition at Vanderbilt as a Latin The NFF’s continuing series on 2020 30-April 5 period are March 30 (1914) Bob because of COVID-19 precautions at language scholar and National Latin Award and ’21 NFF College Hall of Fame Reynolds (Stanford), Morris, Okla.; (1935) Gardner-Webb along with a G-W March 20 recipient; and Lucas Lovejoy HS academic inductees last week featured 2020 newcom- Willie Gallimore, St. Augustine, Fla.; tussle with Monmouth...North Dakota State standout Chief Collins who also starred on er and UCLA All-America QB Cade (1963) Lomas Brown, Miami, Fla.; March football records indicated a $565,000-plus the Lovejoy varsity fishing team. Taylor McNown. 31 (1938) Bob Anderson (Army West net profit from a 2019 football encounter received the traveling Clay Cooley Group NFF College Hall of Fame coach and Point), Elizabeth, N.J.; (1950) Ed with Butler in Minneapolis, Minn., with Gridiron Club of Dallas Scholar-Athlete veteran Wisconsin director of athletics Marinaro, ; April 1 (1884) 34,544 fans on hand. NDSU also has indi- trophy to display in the Jesuit High School Barry Alvarez is expected to retire at the Hugo Bezdek, Prague, Bohemia; (1889) cated that it may meet fellow NCAA FCS athletics’ department. Notable previous end of the 2020-21 academic year. He has John Dalton, Plattsmouth, Neb.; (1898) Joe power Eastern Washington in coming years Gridiron Club of Dallas Scholar-Athletes been AD at Wisconsin since 2006 and was Alexander, Silver Creek, N.Y.; (1929) Bo at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis...The since 2008 have included NFL standouts the Badgers head coach from 1990-2005. Schembechler, Barberton, Ohio; (1965) Top Five in last week’s AFCA NCAA FCS Solomon Thomas of Stanford, Jay Ajai of Turner Classic Movies, which featured Jumbo Elliott, Lake Ronkonkoma, N.Y.; Top 25 national poll were James Madison, Boise State and Rex Burkhead of Nebraska college football movies’ month last April 2 (1871) Marshall Newell, Clifton, Weber State, North Dakota State, Sam North Alabama head coach Chris October, continues to celebrate the memory N.J.; (1880) Harold Weekes, Oyster Bay, Houston State, and North Dakota…The Willis agreed to a four-year pact extension of NFF tri-founder Grantland Rice through N.Y.; (1917) Hugh Gallameau, Detroit, Coaches Association through the 2024 season North Carolina the movies of his daughter and famed Mich.; (1930) Bill McColl, San Diego, NAIA Coaches’ Top 25 Poll for March 22 assistant and wide receivers coach Lonnie Broadway/Hollywood starlet the late Calif.; (1948) Danny Ford, Gadsden, Ala.; featured a Top Five of Morningside (Iowa), Galloway has been promoted to assistant Florence Rice. Her latest featured TCM (1965) Don McPherson, Brooklyn, N.Y.; Grand View (Iowa), Lindsey Wilson (Ky.), head coach…West Virginia added Kirk flick was At The Races with the hilarious April 3 (1903) Andy Gustafson, Aurora, Keiser (Fla.), and College of Idaho... Ciarrocca as offensive analyst…Gary Marx Brothers in 1939 Ð eight years before Ill.; (1926) , Chattanooga, Tenn.; … will not have a spring Brown has been chosen as running backs the Foundation was inaugurated. Yet anoth- (1934) Jim Parker, Macon, Ga.; April 4 intrasquad contests because of COVID-19 coach at Wisconsin…Dave Maimaron has er Marx Brothers’ film highlights the great (1891) Bob Butler, Glen Ridge, N.J.; conditions…Pittsburgh football took a left as head football coach at Duxbury college programs of the 1930s in Horse (1907) Bill Banker, Lake Charles, La.; spring practice pause for health and safety (Mass.) High School…There are some Feathers in 1932. Groucho Marx and (1917) Chet Gladchuk, Bridgeport, Conn.; conditions while Georgia Tech football media reports in the nation’s midsection comedian Eve Arden are discussing start- (1947) Ed White, San Diego, Calif.; (1951) remains in a COVID-19 pause since March that former Colorado and UCLA head ing a football program at a fictional private John Hannah, Canton, Ga.; (1965) Jessie 1…Navy began spring football and other (continued on page 14)

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 32 | April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 13 head coach and television/radio commenta- pensation performance bonuses. Kevin’s Wisconsin while serving on the staff of NCAA fix inequities that came to the fore tor Rick Neuheisel may be a possible inter- father and veteran college and NBA head UW AD and NFF College Hall of Fame during the NCAA Division I Men’s and viewees for the Kansas head caching open- coach Lon Kruger announced his retire- coach Barry Alvarez…Murray State men’s Women’s Basketball Championships…The ing. ment the what may be the final stop in his golf head coach Eddie Hunt is retiring after Los Angeles Times interviewed Pac-12 Hometowns of more 2021 college head coaching career at Oklahoma for the last 20 years at the helm…Longtime college Conference commissioner Larry Scott coaches Ð Wisconsin-Whitewater: Kevin 10 of his 45 years as a basketball coach... men’s basketball head coach Willis Wilson about possible changes in the Pac-12 Bullis, Morris, Minn.; Wofford: Josh …Colorado named Olympian Andy LeRoy is retiring from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Network and commitments running Conklin, Madison, S.D.; Worcester Tech and CU All-America alumnus as head ski …Brittany Young has been named womens through the 2023-24 academic year with (WPI): Chris Robertson, Albany, N.Y.; coach…East Tennessee State tabbed former basketball coach at Austin Peay…SMU the network. Pac-12 men’s teams also start- Wyoming: Craig Bohl, Lincoln, Neb.; Yale: Ohio State women’s basketball coach men’s basketball head coach Tim ed the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tony Reno, Oxford, Mass. Simon Harris as its new head coach.... Jankovich will be back for his sixth season Championship with a composite 11-2 Morgan State director of athletics Dr. …Former VCU and Texas head men’s bas- at the top in 2021-22…Georgia head base- record, and one of those two losses was a Edward Scott has been selected for a four- ketball coach Shaka Smart accepted the ball coach Scott Stricklin (not related to head-to-head meeting of Pac-12 powers year term on the NCAA Division I Playing same post at Marquette last Friday.... Florida’s nationally-recognized AD Scott Oregon and USC in the Sweet 16. Rules Oversight Panel beginning Sept. 1.. …Arizona women’s basketball head coach Stricklin) missed last weekend’s SEC As part of #BlackHistoryMonth cele- …UC Davis has tabbed former interim AD Adia Barnes has a new extension through series with Texas A&M because of bration in February, Goodyear Cotton Bowl Rocko DeLuca as permanent department 2025-26…Outgoing UNLV men’s basket- COVID-19 protocols…Arizona State chose Classic director of communications Scottie head…Kansas State AD Gene Taylor ball head coach T.J. Otzelberger (now at associate AD Christina Wombacher as sen- Rodgers had a five-part interview with Fred agreed to a contract extension through July Iowa State in the same role) had his buyout ior women’s administrator…Memphis McClure, the first Black to serve as Cotton 2027...Oral Roberts AD Mike Carter mar- amount established…Minnesota chose Ben men’s assistant basketball coach Tony Bowl Athletic Association chair and the veled at the national exposure and raising Johnson as its new men’s basketball head Madlock has tabbed as head coach at South namesake for the GCB Internship…AT&T of profile of ORU athletics after the coach…Northern Illinois added to the new Carolina State's…Former Utah State head Stadium, home of the Goodyear Cotton school’s first wins in the NCAA Men’s contract of president Dr. Lisa Freeman men’s basketball coach Craig Smith Bowl since 2009, hosted the popular Basketball Championship since 1974... through June 2025, and Cleveland State accepted the same job at Aggies rival Utah. Monster Truck Jam last weekend with tons …Austin Peay AD Gerald Harrison reor- president Dr. Harland Sands received an Former Big Ten Conference commis- of dirt added to the arena floor. ganized his senior staff, with eight people extension through June 2026…Iona men’s sioner Jim Delany is working now with Young Casey Thompson receiving new duties and titles…Eastern basketball head coach Rick Pitino cau- sports agent Sandy Montag to inaugurate a and Hudson Card appear to be at the top of Michigan tabbed former Valparaiso assis- tioned that the NBA G-League and over- college-focused sports consulting business.. the list to replace All-Big 12 Conference tant AD for academic support and student seas’ professional entities have been taking …Illinois State of the Missouri Valley QB Sam Ehlinger in the fall as Texas services Elizabeth Conrad as associate AD more and more exceptional talent from the Football Conference has decided to cancel opened spring drills last week. UT later for student-athlete support services.... high school ranks or early in student-ath- its final four spring football encounters due paused spring football workouts indefinite- …Alabama AD Greg Byrne said he was lete’s college careers, and schools and to COVID-19 protocols. The Redbirds ly as a precaution after some positive not a candidate for the upcoming Pac-12 coaches must be more aware of the chal- were NCAA Division I runners-up to COVID-19 tests within the squad…Former Conference commissioner’s position…Both lenges…Lamar head men’s basketball North Dakota State in the 2014 season title North Texas QB Jacob Bean is transferring South Carolina AD Ray Tanner and coach and Texas and Virginia hoops’ leg- tilt at Frisco, Texas…The Big West to Kansas…Remembering Vanderbilt quar- Clemson AD Dan Radakovich addressed a end Tic Price will not return for 2021-22 Conference selected former George Mason terbacks of the 2000-09 era, and the list South Carolina Senate Subcommittee on …Portland athletics has acquired former deputy AD Krisi Giddings as the senior includes: possible student-athlete compensation leg- Eastern Washington men’s head basketball associate commissioner for governance and 2000 Ð Greg Zolman, Tim Olmstead islation…Campbell AD Omar Banks, Duke coach as the new head legal affairs and senior woman administra- 2001 Ð Greg Zolman, Tim Olmstead, Benji senior associate AD for internal affairs coach for UP…Connecticut Basketball tor…Pac-12 Conference deputy commis- Walker Troy Austin and UNCG AD Kim Record Hall of Fame women’s head coach Geno sioner and chief operating operator Jamie 2002 Ð (future NFL standout have been identified as prime candidates Auriemma rejoined the team last Zaninovich related how the conference uti- from Santa Claus, Ind.), Benji Walker for the vacant AD’s post at William & Wednesday after a 10-day quarantine due lized NCAA tournament metrics and 2003 Ð Jay Cutler, Steven Bright Mary …Tennessee associate AD and chief to COVID-19...The Citadel men’s basket- strength of scheduling to have success in 2004 Ð Jay Cutler, Steven Bright of staff Marcus Hilliard spoke of his foster ball head coach Duggar Baucom could the postseason…AthleticDirectorU and 2005 Ð Jay Cutler, Chris Nickson father Duke head coach David Cutcliffe have an additional three years added to his Athlete Viewpoint developed an Athletics 2006 Ð Chris Nickson, Mackenzi Adams, and the Cutcliffe’s family positive influ- current contract as negotiations continue Department Power Index with a close look Richard Kovalchek ence on his life and career in athletics.... with the Bulldogs administration…Simon at national marketplace values of Ivy 2007 Ð Chris Nickson, Mackenzi Adams, …West Virginia deputy AD Keli Zinn Harris has been chosen as women’s head League AD positions and the current open- Richard Kovalchek spoke about being the No. 2 administrator basketball coach at East Tennessee State.. ing at Pennsylvania…Denver women’s 2008 Ð Chris Nickson, Mackenzi Adams, in the Mountaineers department and how …George Mason chose former Tennessee gymnastics became the first affiliated Larry Smith (QBs led Vandy to first bowl working in compliance is important to assistant coach Kim English as its men’s member of the Big 12 Conference to win a game since 1982) leadership and promotions in college ath- basketball head coach….Oregon State is team championship in the 25-year competi- 2009 Ð Mackenzi Adams, Larry Smith letics…Former Hofstra men’s head basket- working on a future contract update and tive history of the loop at the ’21 title meet The University of Calgary sent eight ball coach Joe Mihalich has become a spe- extension for NCAA men’s basketball …Atlantic 10 Conference commissioner players to the Canadian Football League cial adviser for Hofstra AD Rick Cole Jr Sweet 16 head coach Wayne Tinkle... Bernadette McGlade reiterated that all pro- combine, and many hope to be included in ….Oregon State president Dr. F. King …Georgia Tech women’s head basketball tocols dealing with COVID-19 were fol- the April 15 CFL draft. These standouts are Alexander has left his position…Santa coach, former ESPN commentator and lowed during the A-10 men’s basketball Logan Bandy, OL; Alex Basilis, WR; Clara University named provost Lisa 2020-21 ACC Coach of the Year Nell postseason tourney and that VCU followed Carter Comeau, OL; ,Grant McDonald, Kloppenberg acting president…Former Fortner commented about the experience of all precautions during that week before LB; Charlie Moore, LB; Peter Nicastro, Columbia associate AD for compliance the NCAA Women’s Championship... having to opt out of the NCAA Men’s OL; Hayden Nellis, DL; and Tyler Packer, Kevin Burton the online marketplace …Eastern Washington tabbed David Riley Championship…Incoming ACC commis- OL. The Dinos are coached by Wayne Workhorse as chief compliance officer and as fulltime men’s head basketball coach.. sioner Jim Phillips discussed new revenue Harris Jr., son of late NFF College Hall of director of higher education partnership... …Purdue women’s basketball head coach solutions and marketing methods to help Fame member Wayne Harris Sr. of …Michigan men’s basketball head coach Sharon Versyp will retire at the of the make up for 2020-21 COVID-19 deficits.. Arkansas…North Carolina’s Walker and 2020-21 DI National Coach of the Year 2022-23 season after 17 years in this post …The Pac-12 Conference is working with Kessler has entered the NCAA transfer Juwan Howard complimented the NCAA, and will be replaced by coach-in-waiting the Institute for Sport and Social Justice to portal along with LSU tight end Aric trainers and first responders on their efforts Katie Geralds…Tulane men’s basketball offer education, training, climate assess- Gilbert, Ohio State WR Mookie Cooper (to to complete the NCAA Basketball head coach Ron Hunter had his contract ments, and recommendations for the Pac- Missouri), Texas Tech WR Ja’Lynn Polk Championships…Kevin Kruger was named expended through the 2025-26 season.... 12’s diversity, social justice and anti-racism (to Washington), and Florida State WR head men’s basketball coach at UNLV and …Marisa Moseley has left Boston U. to efforts…Big East Conference commission- D.J. Matthews (to Indiana)…Vanderbilt had his contract ratified with several com- become head women’s basketball coach at er Val Ackerman said she hopes to help the landed three standout verbal commitments

14 April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 32 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com for 2022 with LB linebacker Langston Russell Wilson…Monumental Sports and Timing and Workout Day and had a situa- multiple sporting events, including 2020 Patterson, DE BJ Diakite and DE Linus Entertainment CEO and NHL Washington tional public scrimmage last Saturday to college football contests, going unused or Zunk…Texas A&M WR Demond Demas is Capitals, NBA Wizards and WNBA highlight spring workouts…Several North being sold on second markets through such hoping for team reinstatement at an Mystics owner Ted Leonsis acknowledged Texas area football programs on the college avenues as StubHub due to COVID-19 upcoming meeting with the coaching staff. that the future of ticketing will be largely and high school levels are looking to the crowd restrictions or budget cutbacks.... Aggies tight end Jalen Wydermyer is out digital with some adjustments after the expanding H-E-B grocery chain’s footprint …Ken Pomeroy of the KenPom Basketball for the rest of spring practice with a hand COVID-19 ticketing procedures…The for possible sponsorship and food products Service has enjoyed seeing his data used injury…Florida’s Noah Locke and Ques NBA's Miami Heat have allotted two sec- as the large Texas chain builds new stores on the CBS, TBS and TruTV but asked the Glover have entered the 2021 NCAA trans- tions specifically for fully COVID-19 vac- in Frisco and Plano, Texas, in coming networks to give him credit for the utiliza- fer portal along with Texas A&M’s Javion cinated fans. months…Tracking services have indicated tion of his data…The NCAA men’s DI Flagg, Jay Jay Chandler, Jackson Young, William & Mary athletics inaugurated a that 11 of the 15 men’s basketball tourney had Nielsen ratings of and Kevin Marfo…Texas Longhorns trans- $55 million campaign, All In, which will head coaching positions have been filled by 8.5 million viewers for the first rounds in fer portal entries for ’21 are Royce Hamm help support the school’s 23 of its varsity Black coaches. Numerous women’s basket- the Indianapolis area Ð a three percent Jr. and Donovan Williams…North Texas sports. The effort already has produced $17 ball coaching openings have gone to people increase for comparable games of 2018 WR and All-Conference USA wideout million in its early days….Missouri athlet- of color as well…The California State postseason hoops…Yahoo Sports discussed Jaelon Darden appears to have the best ics was granted an anonymous $3 million Senate Judiciary Committee had an 11-0 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship opportunity to be the first Eagles player to for the department in general with $1.4 vote to move up the state’s names, images broadcast rights and negotiations, which be taken in the regular NFL Draft since million specified for the new indoor foot- and likenesses’ compensation law to Jan. 1, might take the agreements through the 2004…Georgia's All-SEC WR George ball practice facility, which will open in 2022, at the latest Ð possibly at an earlier 2021-32 season…On Thursday, April 1, Pickens has been sidelined by spring knee 2022…Oklahoma athletics has gained a date…Mississippi has become the seventh Indiana Sports Corporation will host its surgery...Oklahoma QB Chandler Morris is $2.5 million gift from the Price Family state to pass a names, images and likeness- 2021 Pathfinder Awards: Greater Than the transferring to TCU along with former Foundation to enable the Michael F. Price es’ bill for student-athletes compensation Game presented by OneAmerica at Memphis standouts DB T.J. Carter and OL Sooner Wellness System Ð a support organ- with an effective date of July 1…Penn Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Chief honorees Obinna Eze...Lubbock (Texas) Cooper HS ization for multiple areas of student-ath- State and Wisconsin had to postpone last will be 2021 Inspiring Sports Storyteller DE Kyler Jordan has offered a verbal com- letes’ campus needs and wellness Ð with $1 week’s women’s volleyball match due to Malcolm Moran (executive director of the mitment to Baylor for 2022...North Texas' million going to the Michael F. Price COVID-19 conditions…Gonzaga, a former USBWA) and National Pathfinder and James Reese and Jalen Jackson have Family Football Scholarship Fund...Former West Coast football power and the alma Father of the Final Four and late NCAA entered the NCAA transfer portal...Kansas North Carolina men’s basketball student- mater of famed entertainer Bing Crosby, is administrator Tom Jernstedt…CBS Sports has decided to replace the scholarship of athlete Danny Green has donated $1 mil- trying to become the first undefeated team has estimated that 1,000-plus men’s basket- former 2021 signee WR Quaydarius Davis lion for an endowed scholarship…Oregon in NCAA men’s basketball since national ball student-athletes will be in the transfer with another signee for the coming cam- State men’s basketball team re-enacted a champ Indiana closed 32-0 in 1975-76... portal this week with a possible 1,200-plus paign. scene from the movie Hoosiers (measuring …Rutgers will require students to be have by April 5. NFF College Hall of Fame coach Mack the height of the goal and rim) during proof of COVID-19 vaccinations before The FWAA is accepting nominations Brown had his contract extended through workouts last week at historic Tony Hinkle they can enroll for the fall semester.... for the 2021 Edward Aschoff Rising Star the 2025 season at North Carolina.... Arena on the Butler campus in Indianapolis …Spectators at the 2021 Masters golf clas- Award from its members via FWAA.com …Quarterback Eddie Marinaro, son of at the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball sic in Augusta, Georgia, will not be and awards links…The USBWA selected NFF College Hall of Fame running back Championship...Virginia women’s volley- required to show proof of a negative Oklahoma State forward Cade Cunningham Ed Marinaro of Cornell, has committed to ball cancelled the rest of its 2021 spring COVID-19 before entering the Augusta as 2020-21 Wayman Tisdale Freshman his father’s alma mater for the coming campaign…Liberty’s new Liberty Arena National layout. Men’s Basketball Player of the Year…Dan campaign…Brian Smalls, former defensive features 15 Daktronics LED displays with ESPN College GameDay analyst Kirk Ruede of New Haven, Scott Musa of back at Michigan, has become the first full- a center-hung 13x24-foot video display... Herbstreit will be the lead broadcaster on Shenandoah, Bill Powers of Hawai’i time Black judge in the history of …The NFL Carolina Panthers and ABC’s and ESPN’s coverage of the NFL Pacific, Blake Long of Northeast Williamsburg, Virgnia, and James City XENEX, the makers of the LightStrike Draft…Longtime CBS Sports commentator Mississippi, and Dan Matchett of the U. of County…Former Delaware standout and Germ-Zapping Robot, have donated a Jim Nantz received a new contract with the Calgary (Canada) were featured subjects NFL long snapper Joe Fortunato has signed LightStrike disinfection device to the network. Nantz, a former University of and opinion makers in the CoSIDA Open with the . It is not Charlotte 49ers athletics department... Houston golf student-athlete and lifelong Forum online newsletter and magazine.... known if Fortunato is related to former …CarrSports has inaugurated a Social friend of PGA great and UH alumnus Fred …Arizona State, Cincinnati, Iowa, LSU, Mississippi State and NFL star Joe Justice Team to athletics departments Couples, unofficially began his career as a Louisville, Michigan State, NC State, Fortunato - the namesake of the Joe who are ready to begin the difficult but starter-announcer during the 1980 Oklahoma State, Oregon State, Tennessee, Fortunato NFF Natchez (Miss.) Chapter.. necessary conversations on their campuses Southwest Conference Men’s Golf and Winthrop are working with NCAA ...The NBA Denver Nuggets and NHL and to help the reach the next level for Championship when SWC assistant media enforcement and compliance officials con- Colorado Avalanche have been given per- create long-term diversity action…The relations director Tom Turbiville utilized cerning possible issues and probes at their mission by local authorities to seat as many College of Charleston is using Collegiate him for all three rounds at Tyler, Texas, respective schools… The NCAA basket- as 4,500 fans for contests in Denver…The Sports Associates in its quest for a new along with Nantz’s public address duties ball and overall athletics’ promotional NFL plans to do a live, in-person 2021 men’s head basketball coach…East for UH’s men’s and women’s basketball announcement Dear College Sports begins draft show in Cleveland, Ohio, April 29- Carolina and St. John’s had to postpone from 1979-82…Sportico noted that Grand with North Dakota State (winner of eight May 1…Former Arizona standout TE and their three-game baseball series last week Canyon U. became the first NCAA men's of the last nine NCAA FCS championships) NFL All-Pro receiver Rob Gronkowski has due to COVID-19 protocols…Mississippi basketball tourney entry that also is pub- in the tunnel preparing for another crown signed another one-year contract to com- high school football coaches along with all licly traded on stock exchanges…Inside defense…The Wisconsin women just - pete for the defending Super Bowl LV¨ classroom teachers are receiving an auto- Higher Education's 2021 survey of college tured the NCAA Women’s Division I …The Los Angeles matic $1,000 annual pay raise from the and university presidents indicated that 80 Hockey Championship for the sixth time, Chargers also inked former Las Vegas state legislature…Adidas is seeking to percent of the participants felt that their and the NCAA Men’s Frozen Four¨ will Raiders TE Jared Cook of South Carolina.. enter the outdoor apparel market with new institutions would regain full financial sta- begin April 8 in Pittsburgh, Pa…Virginia’s …Baylor women’s basketball student-ath- offerings for hiking, walking and skiing.. bility after the COVID-19 pandemic within women’s swimming and diving squad lete Dijonai Carrington (graduate transfer …The Southern California administration the next 10 years…USA Today outlined recently tallied its first NCAA from Stanford) is the daughter of former is scheduled to pay $852 million in settle- performance bonuses for several men’s Championship in 40 seasons of competi- NFL and Northern Arizona standout ments for sexual harassment lawsuits.... basketball coaches in post-2021…The New tion and 28th NCAA team kudos overall Darren Carrington and brother of former …Wisconsin-Whitewater football hosted York Post featured a group known as The …The NCAA has been working with sev- Oregon and Utah WR Darren Carrington its annual Pro Timing Day last week, and Players Trunk, which sells sports apparel eral entities to alleviate discrepancies in Jr.…Stanford basketball three-point shoot- SMU is preparing for this event in coming worn by professional or former college ath- weight/exercise facilities and COVID-19 ing ace Anna Wilson is the sister of NC days…North Texas hosted scouts from 29 letes through an auction system…Sportico testing methods between the Division I State, Wisconsin and NFL standout QB NFL teams on March 25 at its annual Pro addressed the issue of corporate tickets to (continued on page 16)

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 32 | April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 15 men’s and women’s basketball tournament schools and or conferences cancel or sus- in the tunnel preparing for another crown pend spring sport seasons. Competition defense…The Wisconsin women just cap- must be limited to 30 percent of the legis- tured the NCAA Women’s Division I lated maximum and must end by the Hockey Championship for the sixth time, NCAA championships’ selection dates in and the NCAA Men’s Frozen Four¨ will each sport with respect to COVID-19 pro- begin April 8 in Pittsburgh, Pa…Virginia’s tocols, which have caused pauses and dis- women’s swimming and diving squad ruptions…The XFL and former commis- recently tallied its first NCAA sioner, NCAA administrator, NFL Europe, Championship in 40 seasons of competi- and West Virginia AD Oliver Luck are con- tion and 28th NCAA team kudos overall tinuing discussions over dismissals and …The NCAA has been working with sev- severance packages. eral entities to alleviate discrepancies in weight/exercise facilities and COVID-19 testing methods between the Division I Schedule with New Year’s Six Games men’s and women’s basketball tourna- (All Games Televised by ESPN, EST) ments. NCAA president Dr. Mark Emmert also reminded media and fans about the Friday, Dec. 31, 2021 difference between workout and pregame (CFP Semifinals & Championship exercise/warmup rooms…NCAA director January 10) of media coordination and statistics Dave Goodyear Cotton Bowl Worlock observed that nine double-digit AT&T Stadium seeds advanced to the Round of 32 in the Arlington, Texas, 4 or 8 p.m. 2020-21 NCAA men’s tourney to tie for Capital One Orange Bowl the second most all-time (2001 and 2012). The NCAA record remains at 10 in 2016 Miami Lakes, Fla., 4 or 8 p.m. …The NCAA will not use the March Madness¨ brand for the 2020-21 Women’s Monday, Jan. 10 Division I Basketball Championship but CFP Championship, Semifinal Winners looks to add new logos and branding for Lucas Oil Stadium future women’s hoops’ playoffs…FTX has Indianapolis, Ind., 8 p.m. gained naming rights for the NBA Mia (Fla.) Heat's arena for 19 years and $135 Thursday, Dec. 30. 2021-Jan. 1, 2022 million deal…The NCAA has acquired the (Other New Year’s Six Bowls) services of Kaplan, Hecker and Fink LLP to look into gender equity and Title IX Thursday, Dec. 30 updates within the organization…Michigan Chick Fil-A Peach Bowl men’s ice hockey had to withdraw from the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta,Ga.TBD NCAA Championships because of positive COVID-19 testing…The NCAA also is Friday, Jan. 1 working to alleviate a current $13.5 million PlayStation Fiesta Bowl budget difference between this year’s State Farm Stadium men’s and women’s Division I basketball Glendale, Ariz. TBD tourneys with respect to attendance and Friday, Jan. 1 revenue figures. In 2019, however, the Allstate Sugar Bowl men’s tourney attracted 690,000-plus fans Mercedes-Benz Superdome for 67 contests while the women’s DI meet New Orleans, La., TBD had a composite 275,000-plus for 63 con- Friday, Jan. 1 tests…The NCAA Division I Council has presented by Capital One approved a waiver allowing college stu- Rose Bowl Stadium dent-athletes to participate in limited com- Pasadena, Calif. petition with other collegiate opponents without using a season of eligibility if their

16 April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 32 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com AUTO CHEVROLET TAHOE One of the best SUVs money can buy

that frees up space in the center console. audio system, telescoping steering wheel Few SUVs look as SUV-like as the and power-adjustable pedals, memory seat- Chevy Tahoe. Big, blocky and bold, it is ing and universal garage-door opener. The the pictorial definition of what many envi- LT trim also opens the door to options like sion when they think of a traditional sport- 2nd-row bucket seats, sunroof and more. utility vehicle. We like the Tahoe’s sharp- The top-line Tahoe Premier comes with edged styling, sculpted flanks and new many of the amenities that are optional on LED daytime running lights. The Tahoe the LT, including hands-free tailgate, navi- looks wider than its GMC Yukon sibling gation, blind-spot monitoring, keyless start, thanks to the wide grille that blends into and heated steering wheel. Exclusive to the the headlights. Shorter drivers will love the Premier are Magnetic Ride Control, high- available power running boards. Tahoe intensity headlights, ventilated front seats, RST models add aggressive aesthetics like 10-speaker Bose audio, and optional By Matt Degen edition RST Performance Package, the a black grille, mirror caps and bow-tie power-retractable side steps. You’ll also Tahoe Premier model really gets up and badges, and 22-inch wheels. need the Premier trim if you want adaptive With its attractive styling, capable inte- goes, hitting 0-60 mph in less than six sec- The Tahoe is available in three main cruise control and advanced high-speed rior and powerful standard V8 engine, the onds. The RST — Rally Sport Truck — trims: LS, LT and Premier. At its least autonomous braking. Chevrolet Tahoe remains one of the best treatment is also available without the expensive, a Tahoe LS includes cloth seats, If you go with the base LS trim, we full-size SUVs money can buy. engine upgrade on Tahoe LT and Premier tri-zone automatic climate control, keyless highly recommend adding the Enhanced Because it’s constructed atop a rugged models. entry, rearview camera and rear parking Driver Alert Package. For just $695 it adds truck-like frame, the Tahoe can haul and Of the numerous infotainment setups sensors, cruise control, and the MyLink 8- forward-collision alert with low-speed for- tow far more weight than a conventional we’ve tested, the MyLink system in the inch touch-screen infotainment system with ward emergency braking, power-adjustable crossover SUV like the Chevy Traverse or Chevrolet Tahoe full-size SUV is hands- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility pedals, lane-keep assist, lane-departure Honda Pilot. However, when it comes to down one of the best. It’s easy to use and and 6-speaker audio system. warning, and more. trailering bragging rights, the Ford navigate, with quick response times and If you can afford roughly $5,000 more, Four-wheel drive can be had on all Expedition’s 9,300-pound rating beats out big, colorful graphics. The system is not we recommend stepping up to at least the three trims instead of the standard 2-(rear)- the Tahoe’s 8,600-pound limit. only compatible with Apple CarPlay and Tahoe LT trim. It adds safety features like wheel drive, and the optional Z71 off-road While not as fuel-efficient as the Ford, Android Auto, it also offers onboard 4G forward-collision alert and lane-keeping package amplifies the Tahoe’s capabilities the Tahoe’s standard V8 falls squarely in LTE Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and voice activation. systems, plus amenities such as leather with skidplates, upgraded suspension, hill- line with similar engines offered in the Once offered only in the Cadillac seating, power tailgate, Bose 9-speaker descent control and more. Nissan Armada and Toyota Sequoia. Escalade and GMC Denali, the big 6.2-liter There’s also an optional 6.2-liter V8 in the V8 is now available in the Tahoe as part of RST package that bumps horsepower to the Premier’s RST with Performance 420. Package option. With 420 horsepower and With prices ranging from the low 460 lb-ft of torque, this engine can handle $50,000s to as much as $80,000 with every the biggest jobs while pushing acceleration option, the Tahoe isn’t cheap, but it is times into sports-car territory. The engine priced competitively and holds its value also comes with a 10-speed automatic well. transmission and Magnetic Ride Control The Tahoe drives quite a bit better than suspension. you might expect for a big, truck-based One of the leading reasons people love body-on-frame SUV, and certainly better the Chevy Tahoe is its massive interior. than its predecessors. While not quite as Among its non-GM peers, the Tahoe is the comfortable as a car-based crossover SUV, only full-size SUV that can accommodate today’s Tahoe rides admirably. This is truer up to nine passengers, a feat made possible still if you opt for the Magnetic Ride by the LS trim’s available 3-person front Control suspension that comes on the top- bench seat. While the Tahoe’s third row line Premier trim. There’s no getting isn’t as comfortable or roomy as the one in around the Tahoe’s girth that can make it a the Ford Expedition, it still serves as a suit- handful in parking lots and other tight able perch for kids or pets. Most Tahoe spaces, but its steering is light and makes models seat eight, but there is a 5-passen- piloting this ship seamless. ger version that omits the rearmost seat, On the highway, the Tahoe is refined saving money and gaining cargo space. and quiet. The standard 5.3-liter V8 engine Speaking of space, with the 3rd-row in remains a gratifying powerhouse, and its 6- place, there’s a paltry 15.3 cubic feet left speed automatic transmission is a mostly for gear. However, with said seat folded or smooth operator. We’ve tested the Tahoe removed, cargo capacity jumps to a mas- over hill and dale and while towing off- sive 51.7 cubic feet. road vehicles, and it’s always up to the As for passenger comfort, we think task. most will find the Tahoe’s seats both wide For even more potency, the Tahoe can and supportive. Those who need the con- now be had with GM’s more powerful 6.2- venience of a tilt-and-telescopic steering liter V8, which is used in the Cadillac wheel and power-adjustable pedals will Escalade and has already been available in need to move up to the LT or Premier the GMC Yukon. Equipped with this 420- trims. Storage space is ample, thanks in horsepower engine as part of the special part to the column-mounted gear selector

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18 April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 32 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 32 | April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 19 20 April 2, 2021 - April 8, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 32 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com