MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The pageantry and patriotism accompanying the buildup to the Minnesota Twins’ home opener forced a pause for James Paxton in his warmup routine, leaving the Seattle starting pitcher standing alone in left field while a giant flag was unfurled nearby. The bald eagle brought in for a ceremonial flight over the field…… More
Our Braves have opened what should be a very intriguing season, as Alex Anthopoulos begins to mold a team that can start winning and contending again. Star outfield prospect, Ronald Acuna will be turned loose in Atlanta soon. Seeing him develop should be fun. Stay tuned, because this is about to get interesting. Alex has…… More
AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Butch Harmon has taught some of the greatest players in golf, including Tiger Woods, and said he, like many, thought Woods would never play again. Harmon told “AP Sports Special Events” podcast co-hosts Jim Litke and Tim Dahlberg on location at the Masters that he thinks Woods will play well and…… More
SALEM, Mass. (AP) — Most marathoners take 35,000 steps to reach the finish line. John Young needs 80,000. The high school math teacher from Canada is part of a rare and spirited breed of athlete: those who’ve overcome the daunting challenges of dwarfism to conquer the 26.2-mile (42.2-kilometer) distance. Many endure not just the usual…… More
A look at where things stand in the NBA playoff picture, with seven days remaining in the regular season: EAST UPDATE The field of eight is set. And now, it’s all about the seeding. Toronto is on the brink of being No. 1, and Milwaukee cannot fall past No. 8. The Raptors — who were…… More
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Michigan’s game plan used to revolve around offense, hitting enough shots to outscore teams. Sometimes it worked. Many times, often on the biggest stages, it didn’t. The Wolverines have made a shift in recent years, transforming into one of the nation’s best defensive teams. If shots aren’t falling, they can always…… More
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — A wild, entertaining season and one of the maddest Marches in college basketball history has reached its pinnacle. Villanova and Michigan, prolific offense vs. stifling defense, a national title on the line, Monday night in San Antonio. The Wildcats and their horde of long-range shooters are playing for their second title…… More
ATLANTA (AP) — Atlanta hitters enjoyed their most productive night in their new stadium, and that made things easier for Brandon McCarthy in his Braves debut. Ender Inciarte drove in four runs with three hits, Ryan Flaherty had four hits and scored four times, and the Braves roughed up Vince Velasquez and the Philadelphia Phillies…… More
CLEVELAND (AP) — LeBron James accepted the game ball and raised it high over his head for everyone to see — the perfect pose. With the crowd standing and roaring after seeing history, James took a moment to soak in the adoration before hurrying back to work. Michael Jordan would have done the same thing.…… More
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — The maddest of Marches is winding down, the college basketball season now headed into April. All those upsets, crazy finishes and stellar performances have brought us to San Antonio, where a Cinderella and its telegenic nun join three power programs in the Final Four.Based on the way the bracket has gone…… More
