End of a Chapter: Veteran Lineman Bob Schick Bids Farewell to Virginia Tech with Gratitude and Grace

Virginia Tech’s Offensive Line Takes Another Hit as Veteran Bob Schick Enters Transfer Portal

The rebuild in Blacksburg just got even tougher.

Virginia Tech football has suffered yet another blow in the trenches as experienced offensive lineman Bob Schick has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal. The departure of Schick not only strips the Hokies of one of their most seasoned blockers, but it also means that every primary starter from last season’s offensive line is now gone—leaving the new coaching staff with a massive hole to fill ahead of the 2025 season.

For a unit that has struggled mightily in recent years, this latest exit couldn’t come at a worse time. Whether it’s been struggling to create running lanes or protect the quarterback, the offensive line has consistently been a sore spot for Virginia Tech. That inconsistency led head coach Brent Pry to overhaul his staff this offseason, parting ways with former OL coach Ron Crook and bringing in Matt Moore from West Virginia to revamp the group.

But Moore’s challenge is now even steeper. With several linemen either graduating or transferring out, Schick was expected to be one of the few returning pieces that could offer leadership and stability. Over the past two seasons, Schick played in 23 games and surrendered just one sack—a testament to his reliability amid a rotating cast of linemen.

Schick, a Utah native who transferred from Snow College in 2021, made his Virginia Tech debut in the Pinstripe Bowl that same year. Since then, he’s quietly become one of the Hokies’ most dependable players in the trenches. But now, as he seeks a fresh start elsewhere, Virginia Tech is left scrambling.

His departure underscores just how daunting the rebuild is for Moore. The first-year Hokies coach must now build a starting five from scratch, likely leaning on a mix of incoming transfers and young, unproven talent. With the season opener against South Carolina looming on August 30 in Atlanta, time is not on their side.

The pressure is now squarely on Moore to work his magic and reshape an offensive line that desperately needs a new identity. With Bob Schick’s exit, the Hokies’ road to offensive stability just got a whole lot steeper.

Braves Buzz: Jesse Chavez Rejoins the Squad, Winning Ways Resume, and More Updates

Braves Bounce Back: Jesse Chavez Returns, Elder Shines, and Atlanta Finds Its Groove

After a rocky stretch, the Atlanta Braves are finally starting to look like themselves again—and their latest homestand was just what the doctor ordered. With a 5-1 finish at Truist Park, including back-to-back series wins, the Braves have stopped the bleeding and are gaining some momentum as they prepare to hit the road.

A major key to that rebound? Bryce Elder. The right-hander stepped up with a much-needed solid start on Wednesday, tossing effective innings that helped stabilize the pitching staff. Although he recorded just two strikeouts and issued three walks, Elder did what Atlanta desperately needed: gave the bullpen a breather and kept the team in a position to win. While it may not be a full-on breakthrough performance, it’s a step in the right direction.

And it wasn’t just pitching that got the job done. Outfielder Eli White, known more for his glove than his bat, delivered a stunning surprise in the eighth inning—a towering home run that gave Atlanta the cushion it needed to lock up a 4-1 victory over the visiting opponent. That swing sealed the Braves’ second straight series win and capped a much-improved homestand.

Adding to the good vibes, fan-favorite reliever Jesse Chavez has been called back up to the big-league roster. Chavez, who brings leadership and stability to the bullpen, wasn’t needed in Wednesday’s game, but his presence could prove valuable on the upcoming West Coast trip.

The Braves’ overall record has now climbed back into respectable territory—not spectacular, but no longer teetering on the edge of disaster. And with reinforcements like Ronald Acuña Jr. nearing a return, there’s reason for cautious optimism in Atlanta. However, the road ahead remains challenging. The Braves will need more stretches like this—clean wins, dependable starts, and timely hits—to firmly re-establish themselves as a postseason threat.

For now, though, things are looking up. The vibes are better, the wins are returning, and Chavez is back where he belongs. The Braves are far from finished—but they’ve taken a crucial first step.

Virginia Tech’s Portal Pursuit: SEC Prospect Visiting, Big 12 WR Offered

Virginia Tech Ramps Up Transfer Pursuits: SEC Veteran Visiting, Big 12 Playmaker Offered

The Virginia Tech Hokies are wasting no time in reloading their roster through the transfer portal, targeting experienced talent on both sides of the ball as spring rolls on. With a few key departures and a number of positions still needing depth, the Hokies are swinging big—and making some intriguing moves this week.

One of the headline targets? Former four-star defensive lineman Darrion Henry-Young. According to Matt Zenitz of 247Sports, the former Kentucky Wildcat and Ohio State Buckeye is scheduled to visit Blacksburg this Wednesday and Thursday. Henry-Young, once a Top 150 national recruit, brings SEC and Big Ten experience to the table—a valuable asset for a Hokies defense looking for immediate impact players. He tallied 10 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a forced fumble last season in limited action for Kentucky. With Virginia Tech prioritizing reinforcements on the defensive front, especially under new defensive coordinator Sam Siefkes, Henry-Young could be a plug-and-play addition in 2025.

On the offensive side, the Hokies are eyeing help at wide receiver—a group that enters next season thin on experience. Virginia Tech has extended an offer to BYU wideout Keelan Marion, a speedy and versatile target who made noise in the Big 12 this past season. Marion posted 24 catches for 346 yards (14.4 YPC) and a touchdown for the Cougars in 2024. His career-best campaign, however, came in 2021 at UConn, where he hauled in 28 receptions for 474 yards and five touchdowns. He also showcased special teams ability with 124 punt return yards, making him a dual-threat option the Hokies could immediately utilize.

With the NFL Draft looming and former Tech receivers expected to be selected, Virginia Tech’s receiving corps is in transition—and Marion could help bridge the gap. Assistant coach Fontel Mines is leading the charge, and landing Marion would be a major win in solidifying the group for the fall.

Between a high-upside SEC transfer on defense and a dynamic Big 12 receiver on offense, the Hokies are actively reshaping their roster through the portal—and fans should be keeping a close eye on what happens next.

Roster Shakeup: Mariners Recall Pitcher, Shift Outfielder to 60-Day Injured List

Mariners Make Key Roster Moves: Veteran Pitcher Returns, Robles Shifted to 60-Day IL

The Seattle Mariners continued their ongoing roster shuffle on Wednesday, making a pair of significant moves that impacted both their bullpen and outfield depth.

Right-handed pitcher Casey Lawrence is once again headed back to the big leagues, as Seattle selected his contract from Triple-A Tacoma. To make room on the 40-man roster, the club transferred outfielder Victor Robles from the 10-day injured list to the 60-day IL. Additionally, rookie right-hander Sauryn Lao, who made his MLB debut just a day earlier, was optioned back to the Rainiers.

Lawrence, 37, is no stranger to the Mariners’ bullpen carousel. This marks his third stint with the big league club this season after being designated for assignment twice. Though his appearances have been limited, he has performed respectably, allowing three runs (two earned) over five innings across three outings. With a career ERA of 6.63 in 129 major league innings, Lawrence brings experience and depth to a bullpen in flux.

Lao, 25, gave fans a glimpse of his potential during his Tuesday debut against Boston, where he struck out three batters and surrendered only one unearned run over 1 1/3 innings. In Triple-A Tacoma, Lao has been sharp, posting a 2.00 ERA and a 0.89 WHIP across three starts. Though his time in Seattle was brief, it’s likely the organization sees more opportunities for him in the near future.

The more sobering news comes with Robles, who now faces an extended absence after being shifted to the 60-day injured list. The speedy outfielder suffered a dislocated shoulder and fractured humeral head during a sensational diving catch on April 7. With a projected recovery time of at least 12 weeks, Robles won’t be eligible to return until early July, dealing a blow to Seattle’s outfield rotation.

The Mariners, currently in the middle of a three-game series against the Boston Red Sox, will continue to rely on a mix of veterans and emerging talent as they navigate the early stretch of the 2025 season. Wednesday’s series finale features Emerson Hancock (0-1, 12.71 ERA) taking the mound for Seattle against Boston’s Sean Newcomb (0-2, 3.63 ERA), with first pitch scheduled for 3:45 p.m. PT. Pregame coverage begins at 2:30 p.m. on Seattle Sports Radio.

Virginia Tech Offensive Lineman Bob Schick Reportedly Enters Transfer Portal

Hokies’ Offensive Line Overhaul Complete as Veteran Bob Schick Enters Transfer Portal

Virginia Tech’s offensive line transformation is officially complete, and the latest move seals it. Veteran offensive lineman Bob Schick has entered the transfer portal, marking the departure of the last remaining starter from the Hokies’ 2023 offensive line unit.

Schick’s decision was first reported by sources close to his camp and confirmed Wednesday morning via his personal Instagram account. A staple on the offensive front, Schick started 23 games over the past two seasons and played in 38 total contests across four years in Blacksburg. He earned a 60.7 Pro Football Focus grade for his 2024 campaign but appeared to be slipping down the depth chart, finishing spring practice as part of the second-team unit.

His exit represents the final chapter in what has been a major offseason reshuffle for Virginia Tech in the trenches. All five of the Hokies’ main starting offensive linemen from last season are now gone. Kaden Moore and Parker Clements graduated, while standout tackles Xavier Chaplin and Braelin Moore transferred to SEC powerhouses Auburn and LSU, respectively.

New offensive line coach Matt Moore—who joined from West Virginia—didn’t waste time restocking the cupboard. He brought with him three familiar faces in Tomas Rimac, Kyle Altuner, and Lucas Austin via the transfer portal. These additions, along with rising talent already in the program, have reshaped the Hokies’ offensive front.

As spring practices concluded, Virginia Tech’s projected top seven linemen featured Johnny Garrett and Rimac at tackle, Layth Ghannam, Montavious Cunningham, and Brody Meadows at guard, and Altuner and Tommy Ricard rotating at center.

Schick becomes the eighth Hokie to hit the portal during the NCAA’s spring transfer window, which closes Friday. Others joining him include quarterback Davi Belfort, offensive linemen Caleb Nitta and Web Davidson, defensive lineman Jorden McDonald, linebacker duo Jayden McDonald and Cameren Fleming, and defensive back Braylon Johnson.

As the Brent Pry era continues to evolve, Virginia Tech is leaning heavily into its rebuild, using the portal to inject new talent and recalibrate depth. While Schick’s leadership and experience will be missed, the Hokies are clearly signaling a bold new direction up front—one they hope will lead to greater consistency and dominance in the trenches come fall.

Hokies Hit Hard: Virginia Tech Faces Triple Hit, QB Departs, Another Portal Loss, and SEC Steals Top WBB Talent

Hokies Reeling: Quarterback Exit, Defensive Transfer, and WBB Portal Miss Shake Virginia Tech Athletics

It’s been a rough stretch for Virginia Tech athletics, as three separate blows have rattled Hokie Nation across football and women’s basketball. Between a quarterback departure, another defensive portal entry, and a high-profile recruiting loss on the hardwood, the program is feeling the heat this spring.

The most notable news came from the quarterback room, where redshirt freshman Davi Belfort officially announced his departure from the program via X (formerly Twitter). While Kyron Drones and Pop Watson missed the Spring Game due to injuries, Belfort did participate alongside incoming freshmen Kelden Ryan and A.J. Brand. Seeing the writing on the wall and facing a crowded depth chart, Belfort has decided to explore his options. His farewell message thanked Hokie Nation and left fans wondering where the talented Florida native might land next.

But that wasn’t the only roster shake-up. The Hokies also lost Cameren Fleming, a redshirt sophomore who entered the transfer portal after limited action on defense. Fleming’s time in Blacksburg was marked by position changes between linebacker and defensive back, preventing him from finding a consistent role. After just four appearances and two tackles during his Hokie tenure, his move is understandable—but still adds to the defensive uncertainty for head coach Brent Pry.

And it’s not just football feeling the sting. Over on the women’s basketball court, Megan Duffy suffered a tough recruiting loss in the transfer portal battle. With center Rose Micheaux out of eligibility, Virginia Tech aimed to bring in size and presence in the post. They hosted Aalyah Del Rosario, a 6-foot-6 LSU transfer with SEC experience and game-changing potential. However, Del Rosario chose to stay in the Southeastern Conference, committing instead to Vanderbilt and head coach Shea Ralph. Her decision leaves a major gap in the Hokies’ frontcourt heading into next season.

With all this roster turbulence, it’s clear the Hokies are navigating a critical offseason. From the quarterback room to the basketball paint, the coaching staff now faces the challenge of filling holes, rebuilding depth, and keeping momentum heading into the 2025 season.

Bonus Note: The Hokies’ midweek baseball game time against VCU has also been adjusted—just another shift in a week full of changes for Virginia Tech athletics.

Phillies Meltdown Sparks War of Words: Mets Say ‘No Rivalry Just a Whooping Coming

Mets Dominate, Phillies Crumble: Postgame Meltdown Exposes Brewing Frustration in Philly

The Philadelphia Phillies may boast a winning record on paper, but their recent performances—especially against the New York Mets—tell a very different story. On Tuesday night, after a disheartening 5-1 loss at Citi Field, frustration boiled over on NBC Sports Philadelphia’s postgame show, where hosts held nothing back in a scathing takedown of the team’s lackluster play.

“This isn’t a rivalry—this is a beatdown,” said Michael Barkann, emphatically stating what many Phillies fans have started to fear. “The Mets have taken the Phillies’ lunch money over and over.” And the numbers back him up: Philadelphia has dropped eight of their last 10 meetings with the Mets, including postseason heartbreak, and are just 6-19 in their last 25 games at Citi Field.

The criticism wasn’t just about the losses, but how uninspired the Phillies have looked in the process. Former pitcher and analyst Ricky Bottalico didn’t hold back either, slamming the team for a lack of energy and execution. “There’s no spark,” Bottalico said. “They’re just going through the motions. You’ve got relievers throwing meatballs with 0-2 counts. That’s asking to get your butt whooped.”

One of the worst offenders? The bullpen, which currently owns a 5.70 ERA—second-worst in the league. On Tuesday, after starter Cristopher Sánchez exited early due to forearm tightness, the relief squad once again imploded. Luis Torrens of the Mets delivered a dagger with a two-run single on an 0-2 pitch from Orion Kerkering, continuing a troubling trend of missed opportunities and poor pitch selection.

The Mets, who eliminated the Phillies from last year’s postseason in a swift three-game sweep, have picked up right where they left off. Monday’s game saw Francisco Lindor go yard twice in a 5-4 Mets win, and Tuesday’s loss extended Philly’s struggles.

While the Phillies still sit at 13-11, they’re just 7-10 since their strong 6-1 start. And if their play doesn’t improve quickly—especially against division rivals—things could spiral further. With the Mets eyeing a series sweep on Wednesday behind David Peterson, and former Met Zack Wheeler set to take the mound for Philly, all eyes will be on whether the Phillies can find a pulse—or if they’ll continue to be bullied in their own division.

Early Season Letdowns: 3 Phillies Off to Disappointing Starts and Dragging the Team Down

3 Phillies Struggling Out of the Gate—and Slowing the Team’s Momentum

While the Philadelphia Phillies entered the 2025 season with high hopes and early flashes of promise, not everything has gone according to plan. A handful of underperforming veterans have put a damper on the team’s momentum, echoing concerns from last season’s late collapse that saw Philly fizzle out in the playoffs after a strong midseason run.

Among the more surprising disappointments? Newly acquired outfielder Max Kepler, who was expected to be a steady presence in left field. After a scorching spring training performance—where he posted a 1.175 OPS in 17 games—Kepler looked primed to make a major impact. But so far, he’s struggled to find his footing in regular-season play.

Kepler made a strong early impression with a 3-for-4 showing in the home opener against the Rockies, collecting a double, a home run, and an RBI. But his hot start quickly turned cold. Over his next six games, he went just 1-for-18, dragging his OPS from 1.318 down to .678 and slashing his average nearly in half.

The inconsistency has persisted. Kepler has mixed brief flashes of productivity—like back-to-back multi-hit games against San Francisco—with hitless stretches that have raised eyebrows. Through 19 games, his slash line sits at .240/.337/.360 with only one home run and four RBIs in 86 plate appearances. For a player expected to help solidify the middle of the order, those numbers fall well short.

Despite some encouraging signs—like a career-high 50.9% hard-hit rate and expected stats (a .275 xBA and .390 xSLG) suggesting he’s had some tough luck—Kepler hasn’t converted quality contact into production. His 89.1 mph average exit velocity and 7.0% barrel rate align with his career averages, but the extra-base hits and run production just haven’t been there.

With a crowded outfield and a batting order still looking for identity beyond the top four, Kepler will need to bring more consistency to his at-bats. If not, the Phillies risk repeating the offensive struggles that haunted them late last season. For now, the team will need their offseason addition to rediscover the rhythm he showed this spring—and fast.

New Chapter in San Diego: Gavin Sheets Reignites MLB Journey After White Sox Exit

Gavin Sheets Rekindles MLB Flame with San Diego Padres After White Sox Exit

After parting ways with the Chicago White Sox, Gavin Sheets is turning heads and revitalizing his career in San Diego — and Padres fans are starting to take notice.

The left-handed slugger has found fresh footing with the Padres after the White Sox surprisingly declined to offer him a contract for the 2025 season, effectively making him a free agent last November. Though still under team control, Chicago opted to cut ties, allowing the 28-year-old to explore new opportunities.

San Diego wasted no time, inking Sheets to a one-year deal worth $1.6 million — a move that’s quickly looking like a steal. Despite a quiet season in 2024 with the White Sox, where he slashed .233/.303/.357 with 10 home runs and 45 RBIs over 501 plate appearances, Sheets’ versatility and power potential made him an attractive option. He brings depth to the Padres’ roster with the ability to play first base, corner outfield, or serve as a designated hitter.

What really jumpstarted Sheets’ San Diego chapter was an electrifying spring training. He posted a red-hot .315 batting average with a slugging percentage north of .700, launching six home runs and driving in 13 runs. That performance earned him a spot on the big-league roster — and he wasted no time making an impact.

In a storybook moment, Sheets blasted a pinch-hit home run in his very first at-bat for the Padres, helping the team secure a 7–4 Opening Day victory over the Atlanta Braves. It was a glimpse of the upside that made him a once-promising piece of Chicago’s rebuild, now reignited in a new uniform.

Still under club control through 2027, Sheets has the potential to be more than just a short-term solution. With two years of arbitration eligibility remaining, the Padres may have found a low-risk, high-reward contributor who’s ready to prove he belongs.

As San Diego pushes for playoff contention, Sheets’ bat could become a key factor in their success. And for the former White Sox slugger, it’s more than just a change of scenery — it’s a chance to redefine his career.

Hidden Hokie Stars: Two Virginia Tech Playmakers Poised to Shake Up the NFL Draft

Two Former Hokies Emerging as Game-Changing X-Factors Ahead of 2025 NFL Draft

As the NFL Draft kicks off Thursday night in Green Bay, all eyes are on the top prospects—yet two names from Virginia Tech are starting to gain serious traction. Wide receiver Jaylin Lane and running back Bhayshul Tuten have been labeled as potential “X-factors” in this year’s draft class, earning praise from Pro Football Focus and impressing scouts with their elite athleticism and versatility.

After a quiet 2024 draft season due to Virginia Tech’s strong player retention under head coach Brent Pry, the Hokies are back in the spotlight. While last season ended with a disappointing 6-7 record and a loss in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl, several former Hokies are looking to turn the page and make their mark on the next level.

Among them, Lane and Tuten have stood out throughout the pre-draft process—making noise not only with their on-field performances but also during team interviews. Both players were listed by Pro Football Focus among a select group of explosive, game-altering prospects alongside stars like Iowa State’s Jaylin Noel and Missouri’s Luther Burden.

Jaylin Lane has proven he can do it all—an elusive receiver with a knack for big plays, and a fearless punt returner who thrives in high-pressure moments. After a recent meeting with the New York Giants, Lane spoke to the New York Post about his mindset on special teams:
“I’m not afraid to make the tough catches. If I can make a play that changes the game, I’m going to take that chance every time.”

Meanwhile, Bhayshul Tuten is turning heads with his electric speed and dual-threat capability. Whether lined up in the backfield or fielding kickoffs, Tuten’s ability to break away for a touchdown in the blink of an eye is undeniable. In 2023 alone, he notched two return touchdowns—one against Florida State, the other against in-state rival Virginia—cementing his reputation as a game-breaker.

With draft boards still shifting and teams finalizing their picks, Lane and Tuten could be the surprise steals of the 2025 class. Their versatility, explosiveness, and ability to contribute immediately on offense and special teams make them hidden gems with massive upside.

Don’t be surprised if these two former Hokies make headlines again—this time in the NFL.