Eugenio Suarez Ignites the Diamondbacks as He Seizes NL Co-Player of the Week Honors

Eugenio Suarez Makes History with Home Run Frenzy, Earns NL Co-Player of the Week Honors

Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Eugenio Suarez has officially taken center stage in Major League Baseball, earning the title of National League Co-Player of the Week — and for good reason.

Suarez stunned the baseball world with a jaw-dropping performance over the past week, capped by a historic display of power on Saturday. In a dramatic 8-7 extra-innings loss to the Atlanta Braves, Suarez blasted four home runs in just four at-bats, driving in five runs. The extraordinary feat made him just the 19th player in MLB history to hit four homers in a single game — a milestone last reached in 2017 by another former Diamondback, J.D. Martinez.

But Suarez didn’t stop there. Over six games, he posted staggering numbers: a .400 batting average, .500 on-base percentage, and a mind-blowing 1.050 slugging percentage, resulting in a 1.550 OPS. Alongside his four homers and five RBIs, Suarez also drew three walks, further highlighting his disciplined, explosive approach at the plate.

His monster week not only earned him a share of the weekly honors but also launched him into a tie for the MLB home run lead, alongside Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, with 10 bombs apiece.

This marks Suarez’s second Player of the Week recognition this season, the first coming back on March 31. His power surge is a welcome spark for the Diamondbacks as they look to gain momentum in a competitive National League.

Sharing the NL Co-Player of the Week spotlight with Suarez is Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Andy Pages, who also delivered a standout week. On the American League side, Seattle Mariners infielder Jorge Polanco took home the weekly honors.

After a well-earned day off on Monday, Suarez and the Diamondbacks will be back in action on Tuesday, kicking off a three-game road series against the New York Mets. With Suarez swinging a scorching bat, all eyes will be on the Diamondbacks slugger to see if he can keep the fireworks coming.

LATEST NEWS: Green Bay Packers Sign All Star Ex-First-Round Pick

Green Bay Packers Take a Chance on Former Cardinals First-Rounder Isaiah Simmons

The Green Bay Packers are making headlines with a strategic roster addition, signing former first-round pick Isaiah Simmons, previously of the Arizona Cardinals and most recently with the New York Giants. NFL insider Jordan Schultz broke the news, stating Simmons has agreed to terms with Green Bay, offering the team a rare blend of versatility, athleticism, and untapped potential.

At just 26 years old, Simmons brings a unique skill set to the Packers. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 238 pounds, the former Clemson standout was once heralded as one of the most dynamic defensive prospects in recent memory. With the ability to play multiple roles — including linebacker, nickel corner, and even safety — Simmons was often referred to as a “unicorn” during his draft process.

Drafted eighth overall by the Cardinals in the 2020 NFL Draft, Simmons was expected to be a cornerstone of Arizona’s defense. However, despite his physical gifts and flashes of brilliance (including two career pick-sixes), he struggled to find a consistent role in the Cardinals’ defensive scheme. After the team declined his fifth-year option, Simmons was traded to the Giants in 2023 for a seventh-round pick — a stark fall from his original draft-day hype.

In New York, Simmons saw limited action, starting just four games in 2023 and one in 2024. While he wasn’t a regular starter, he continued to showcase moments of playmaking ability, keeping hopes alive that he could still develop into the impact player many projected him to be.

Now, Simmons has a fresh opportunity in Green Bay. While his exact role with the Packers remains undefined, his arrival adds intriguing depth and flexibility to a defense that’s already solid across the board. His versatility could allow defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley to deploy him in various packages, especially in hybrid or sub-package formations.

Though financial terms of the deal haven’t been disclosed, this move clearly represents a low-risk, high-upside play for the Packers. Simmons still has youth, athleticism, and experience on his side. If he can finally settle into a defined role and harness his raw talent, Green Bay might have just secured a hidden gem.

For Simmons, the journey from top-10 pick to potential reclamation project isn’t over yet — but the next chapter begins in Titletown.

Basketball Transfer from Auburn Gets NIL Deal to Compensate for Breach of Contract with Old Team

Chad Baker-Mazara, a key contributor to Auburn’s 2024-25 Final Four run, has officially found a new home after entering the transfer portal earlier this spring. The talented guard, who averaged 12.3 points per game last season, made headlines with his bold move — and the subsequent NIL drama that followed.

After spending a few days in the portal, Baker-Mazara committed to USC on Monday, leaving Auburn behind for a fresh start in Los Angeles. But it wasn’t just a typical transfer; the decision came after significant negotiations over his NIL demands, which were reportedly met and exceeded by his new team.

The saga surrounding his departure began when Baker-Mazara, anticipating a final season at Auburn as a super senior, was offered a $1 million NIL deal by the Tigers. However, tensions flared when the program paid incoming transfer Keyshawn Hall a whopping $2.2 million to join the roster, sparking Baker-Mazara to request a pay raise. Auburn responded with a higher offer, but it still didn’t meet his demands, ultimately pushing him to enter the transfer portal.

This created a potential breach of contract, as Baker-Mazara was bound by terms that required him to pay back over $600,000 should he leave Auburn for a new team. With his decision to commit to USC, it seems that the guard is ready to honor those financial obligations, and USC’s NIL package will help cover the cost.

Baker-Mazara’s move to USC marks the end of a week-long drama that saw one of college basketball’s most talked-about transfers navigate the complexities of NIL deals, contracts, and competitive offers. His departure from Auburn, combined with USC’s willingness to go above and beyond in meeting his financial expectations, shines a light on the increasingly influential role that NIL plays in player movement across college sports.

As the college basketball landscape continues to evolve with the rise of NIL, Baker-Mazara’s saga is a prime example of how the financial dynamics of college athletics are shifting. For USC, securing a player of his caliber will undoubtedly bolster their roster, while Auburn is left to reflect on how its NIL strategies may impact future recruitment and team cohesion.

This chapter of Chad Baker-Mazara’s career may be closing in Auburn, but it’s only just beginning in Southern California, where he’ll look to make an impact on and off the court.

Virginia Tech Football Enhances Defensive Lineup with New Assets

As Virginia Tech football gears up for the 2025 season, the defense is undergoing significant changes, with new faces expected to make a big impact. One of the most notable shifts is the hiring of Sam Siefkes as the new defensive coordinator, taking over from Chris Marve, who was one of three coaches dismissed by head coach Brent Pry in December.

With several key defensive players either drafted into the NFL or moving to the transfer portal, Virginia Tech faces a challenge in rebuilding the unit. However, the Hokies have been proactive, adding some seasoned players through the transfer portal to bolster the defense ahead of next season. While there were positive strides during spring practices, Pry acknowledged that there were still gaps to fill in the lineup.

Over the weekend, Virginia Tech addressed some of those needs with two important commitments that will add depth and experience to the defensive side of the ball.

Hokies Add Key Players Through Transfer Portal

The first major addition is cornerback Caleb Brown, who comes to Virginia Tech from Hawai’i. Brown, a standout in the transfer portal, recorded 24 tackles and seven pass breakups during the 2024 season. His skills will help shore up a secondary that’s in need of experienced playmakers.

The second significant addition is defensive tackle Elhadj Fall from Georgia Southern. Fall, who stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 290 pounds, brings with him two more years of eligibility. A Georgia native, he was an All-Sun Belt Conference honorable mention in 2024 after posting 20 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks. His experience and size will provide much-needed depth to a defensive line that lost several key players to the NFL, including Antwaun Powell-Ryland (Philadelphia Eagles) and Aeneas Peebles (Baltimore Ravens).

In addition to Fall, Virginia Tech has already added several defensive line transfers in recent months, including Kody Huisman from North Dakota State, Arias Nash from Mercer, and Jahzari Priester from Hampton. These additions should help strengthen a defensive line that will look to remain a dominant force despite the losses.

Looking Ahead

While the Hokies have made significant strides in rebuilding their defense, it’s clear that Pry and Siefkes are focused on creating a more balanced and competitive unit for the 2025 season. With new faces across the board and several key transfers, Virginia Tech football looks ready to tackle the challenges ahead and continue its upward trajectory in the ACC.

Collectors Go All In: Caitlin Clark Card Sells for a Fortune

Caitlin Clark is no stranger to breaking records — whether it’s on the court or in the world of collectibles. The former Iowa superstar and current Indiana Fever guard has added another jaw-dropping milestone to her résumé, as one of her rookie trading cards just sold for a staggering $244,000.

The card in question? A 2024 Panini Prizm WNBA Throwback Signatures Gold Vinyl Prizm autographed rookie card — a rare and highly coveted piece that sent shockwaves through the sports memorabilia community when auctioned by Goldin. The final sale price is more than triple Clark’s 2025 WNBA salary of $76,535, highlighting just how immense her popularity and market value have become.

While this latest sale didn’t quite surpass the all-time high for a female athlete trading card — a $366,000 Caitlin Clark card sold earlier — it further cements her dominance in the WNBA collectibles space. In fact, Clark now owns every single spot in the top 30 most expensive WNBA trading cards ever sold, according to data from Cllct.com.

Yes, all 30.

To date, three of her cards have cleared the $100,000 mark, with two others coming just shy, selling for at least $97,000. These jaw-dropping numbers make it clear that Caitlin Clark isn’t just changing the game on the hardwood — she’s redefining what’s possible in the sports collectibles world for women’s athletics.

The WNBA rookie has become a sensation in both the basketball and memorabilia communities, thanks to her explosive college career, magnetic presence, and immediate impact on the pro game. And with her professional journey just beginning, the value of Clark’s memorabilia may only continue to rise as her legend grows.

This six-figure sale underscores more than just collector enthusiasm — it’s a sign of shifting tides in sports fandom. The skyrocketing demand for Caitlin Clark collectibles represents a broader cultural shift, where women’s sports and athletes are finally beginning to receive the recognition — and valuation — they deserve.

For now, Clark continues to make history every time she takes the court — and clearly, every time her name hits the auction block.

Virginia Tech Football: The Same Old Story Starting to Unfold

It’s starting to feel like déjà vu in Blacksburg — and not in a good way.

Just one year ago, Virginia Tech’s baseball team looked like a lock for the NCAA Tournament for most of the season. Momentum was on their side, confidence was high, and expectations were soaring. Then came the collapse. The Hokies faltered down the stretch, stringing together late-season losses that ultimately knocked them out of postseason contention.

Now, fast forward to the 2025 season, and a troublingly familiar storyline appears to be unfolding once again. After a midseason surge that included a sweep of Wake Forest on the road and hard-fought series wins over Louisville and Notre Dame, John Szefc’s squad looked poised to cement its place in the NCAA Tournament field. But as April winds down, the wheels are beginning to wobble.

This past weekend’s series loss to Duke marked Virginia Tech’s third straight ACC series defeat. The recent skid includes getting swept by Florida State and dropping a home series to North Carolina — a stretch that has left the Hokies with an 11-13 conference record and little room for error. With just two ACC series remaining — on the road at Pittsburgh and then at home against in-state rival Virginia — the pressure is mounting.

What’s causing this familiar late-season slide? The pitching staff, once again, appears to be the Achilles’ heel. While the Hokies’ offense has generally done enough to stay competitive, the inconsistency on the mound has become impossible to overlook. Brent Renfrow continues to deliver as a solid Friday night starter, but beyond that, the weekend rotation has become a dice roll — and the results are showing in the standings.

Tournament projections still include the Hokies for now, but their grip on a postseason berth is growing more fragile by the day. A series loss at Pitt this coming weekend could tip the scales, and even a non-conference matchup with Liberty on Tuesday night may carry added weight in the selection committee’s eyes.

If the Hokies can’t find a way to stabilize their pitching and finish strong, they risk watching another promising season unravel. For Szefc and his squad, the time to rewrite the ending is now — before the same old story gets written all over again.

Future QB Change? Raiders Expected to Draft Geno Smith’s Replacement in 2026

Raiders Projected to Target Cade Klubnik as Potential Geno Smith Successor in 2026

The Las Vegas Raiders may have sidestepped drafting a quarterback early in 2025, but signs point to a more aggressive approach in next year’s NFL Draft if Geno Smith doesn’t elevate the offense.

Despite several opportunities to select highly regarded quarterback prospects like Shedeur Sanders, Jalen Milroe, and Quinn Ewers, the Raiders opted to pass on all of them through the first six rounds. Instead, they took a flyer on North Dakota State’s Cam Miller in the seventh round — a developmental talent who, at best, profiles as a long-term backup. It was a clear vote of confidence in veteran Geno Smith, who signed a two-year deal with Las Vegas and is expected to lead the team in 2025.

But Smith turns 35 later this year and isn’t seen as a long-term solution. If his performance dips or remains average, the Raiders could look to the 2026 draft to find their franchise quarterback. One name already surfacing in mock drafts: Clemson’s Cade Klubnik.

Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski recently projected Klubnik to the Raiders with the No. 9 overall pick in his early 2026 mock draft, pointing to Smith’s short-term status and Klubnik’s potential as a future starter.

“The offseason acquisition of veteran Geno Smith allowed the Raiders to bypass the quarterback position in 2025,” Sobleski wrote. “But Smith isn’t a long-term answer. The team can move on from his deal after the season, opening the door for a player like Klubnik.”

Klubnik, a dual-threat QB with high upside, would need a breakout college season in 2025 to solidify his status as a top-10 pick. His athleticism and ability to distribute the ball make him an enticing option, but concerns remain — particularly his struggles under pressure and post-snap defensive adjustments. According to Bleacher Report’s scouting department, Klubnik still needs to develop quicker decision-making and better field awareness when plays break down.

“Klubnik has franchise QB potential,” they noted, “but he must refine his ability to read defenses and process complex coverages quickly.”

For now, the Raiders are content to let 2025 unfold with Smith under center. But their decision to delay drafting a quarterback this year makes it clear: the front office is evaluating Smith closely, and if he doesn’t meet expectations, a bold move for a top quarterback prospect like Klubnik in 2026 could be on the horizon.

Denver Broncos American professional football to Strengthen Roster

The Denver Broncos are continuing to reshape their quarterback room, and their latest move brings in a familiar name with both college pedigree and NFL experience. On Wednesday, the team officially signed quarterback Sam Ehlinger, adding veteran depth behind projected starter Bo Nix.

Ehlinger, a fourth-year pro, enters the mix after spending the first three seasons of his NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts. Drafted in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the former Texas Longhorn showed flashes of promise during limited action. His most notable stretch came in the 2022 season when he started three games for the Colts, completing 63.4 percent of his passes for 573 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions.

While Ehlinger’s time in Indianapolis didn’t cement him as a long-term starter, he brings valuable experience and toughness—qualities that have long defined his football journey. At Texas, he was a multi-year starter and one of the most productive quarterbacks in school history. Across four seasons in Austin, he threw for 11,436 yards and 94 touchdowns, earning second-team All-Big 12 honors in 2020. He also added over 1,900 rushing yards and 33 rushing touchdowns, showcasing his ability as a dual-threat.

Now, Ehlinger steps into a Denver quarterback room led by 2024 first-round pick Bo Nix, who is expected to take the reins as the franchise’s signal-caller. Veteran Jarrett Stidham also returns after serving as a reliable backup last season. With former backup Zach Wilson now in Miami, the Broncos are looking to maintain depth and competition in what promises to be a pivotal year for head coach Sean Payton’s offense.

Bringing in a player like Ehlinger adds not just another arm, but a leader with starting experience, a high football IQ, and the mobility to keep defenses honest in spot-duty roles. Whether he’s competing for a backup job or simply offering veteran insight during training camp, Ehlinger is a smart addition as Denver seeks stability and development at the most important position on the field.

As the Broncos continue preparing for the upcoming season, Ehlinger’s signing could quietly become one of the more meaningful depth moves of the offseason—especially if injuries or growing pains impact the quarterback room.

Padres Star Injured, Also To The Leg, Carted Off After Scary On-Field Collision with Astros Player

Luis Arraez Suffers Scary Injury in Astros-Padres Clash, Carted Off Field After Violent Collision

Sunday night’s matchup between the San Diego Padres and Houston Astros took a concerning turn when star infielder Luis Arraez was carted off the field following a frightening collision at first base. The incident, which occurred in the opening inning at Daikin Park, silenced the crowd and momentarily shifted the spotlight from baseball to player safety.

The game, nationally televised and marking the Astros’ historic 10,000th game, began with Padres slugger Fernando Tatis Jr. drawing a walk off Astros starter Framber Valdez. Next up, Arraez attempted a sacrifice bunt — but what should have been a routine play quickly turned into chaos.

As Astros first baseman Christian Walker fielded the bunt and attempted to flip it to second baseman Mauricio Dubon, he collided forcefully with Arraez, who was sprinting to first. While Dubon was able to get up after the impact, Arraez remained down on the field, prompting immediate concern from players and coaches on both sides.

According to The Athletic’s Chandler Rome, the scene was described as a “nasty collision,” and within minutes, the Padres’ medical team surrounded Arraez. A backboard was brought out as a precautionary measure, and after a 10-minute delay filled with tense silence at Daikin Park, Arraez was carted off the field.

The Padres later provided a much-needed positive update. The team announced via social media that Arraez had been transported to Houston Methodist Hospital for evaluation. He was reported to be stable, conscious, responsive, and able to move all of his extremities — a relief for fans and teammates alike.

Despite the somber start, the game carried historical weight for the Astros as they chased their third straight victory during their milestone game. Houston will remain at home to face the Toronto Blue Jays in their next series starting Monday.

As for Arraez, his condition will continue to be monitored in the coming days. While the Padres’ update offers hope, the baseball world will be anxiously awaiting further details on his recovery. The collision serves as a stark reminder of how quickly things can change on the diamond — and just how precious player health remains, even in a sport that often feels routine.

Virginia Tech Closing In on Top In-State Talent with Latest Recruiting Prediction

As the summer recruiting window approaches, the Virginia Tech Hokies are heating up on the trail—this time setting their sights on one of the top in-state prospects in the 2026 class. Westmoreland High School standout Jaylen Burrell has become the latest name to generate buzz around the Hokies, thanks to a new 247Sports Crystal Ball prediction favoring Virginia Tech to land the versatile athlete.

Burrell, a 6-foot-3, 185-pound prospect out of Montross, Virginia, has the size, speed, and athleticism to make an early impact at the collegiate level. Currently ranked as the No. 67 athlete nationally and the No. 21 player in Virginia by 247Sports Composite, Burrell has drawn interest from programs like Boston College, South Carolina, Charlotte, and Old Dominion. However, all signs are pointing toward Blacksburg, especially as Burrell is slated for an official visit on May 30th.

The Hokies are putting together a promising 2026 class that already includes four-star wide receiver Carnell Warren. With just three commitments locked in so far, Burrell could be the next critical piece in what’s shaping up to be a strong recruiting cycle for head coach Brent Pry and his staff.

Adding to the momentum is the Hokies’ recent pickup of Joshua Pittman, a raw but highly promising linebacker from King’s Fork High School. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 210 pounds, Pittman has the physical traits of a future edge rusher and has shown flashes of dominance on tape. He’s known for his speed off the edge, ability to contain mobile quarterbacks, and versatility to play standing up or with a hand in the dirt.

While he’ll need to bulk up—coaches hope to see him at around 225 pounds—Pittman’s ceiling is high. Defensive coordinator Sam Siefkes envisions him as a long-term piece on the edge, especially important as the Hokies enter a new era following the departure of star defensive end Antwaun Powell-Ryland.

As recruiting continues to ramp up, Virginia Tech’s ability to attract top in-state talent like Burrell, combined with promising additions like Pittman, shows a growing confidence in the program’s direction. If Burrell commits, it will be another statement that the Hokies are reclaiming their home-state dominance—and building something special for 2026 and beyond.