No time to lose: How MLB teams plan to beat the new pitch clock
PHOENIX – The introduction of the pitch clock has changed the game of baseball forever. From a strategic standpoint, clubs around the league shared a wide array of opinions regarding the significance of the difference.
Chicago Cubs’ Ryan Borucki excited for new opportunity with hometown team
New Chicago Cubs pitcher Ryan Borucki is not necessarily the new kid in town. Raised in Mundelein, Illinois, the former Blue Jays and Mariners pitcher signed with the Cubs during the offseason and is excited for a new opportunity with a hometown team.
How should fans ask for autographs at spring training? MLB players say politeness is a good start
GLENDALE – Major league players often find themselves in a mosh pit of autograph seekers during spring training and not everybody is coming out of the pack with a signature on their ball, cap or photo. However, players from the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers, along with some experienced autograph seekers, say there are ways to improve the odds. Being polite is a good place to start.
Hobbs: State not ready to execute Gunches by April 6; court urged to step in
WASHINGTON - With just three weeks until convicted murderer Aaron Gunches is scheduled to be put to death, a court battle continues to rage over whether the state will be ready to execute him by lethal injection on April 6.
Arizona Republican legislators announce formal opposition to ranked choice voting
PHOENIX – Two bills and a Wednesday news conference signal some Arizona Republicans’ and the state’s Freedom Caucus’ opposition to ranked choice voting. The process, which would allow voters to rank candidates on preference, would be prohibited by the two bills.
As World Baseball Classic play nears, Royals get sneak peek at Team USA opponent Great Britain
SURPRISE – As World Baseball Classic Pool C play nears, the Kansas City Royals played an exhibition game and faced Great Britain, who will play Team USA Saturday at Chase Field.
‘Best team in the state’: Perry Pumas complete one-loss season with first-ever Open Division championship trophy
PHOENIX – Cody Williams and Koa Peat paced the Perry Pumas to help finish off a historic season on Saturday night, defeating the Sunnyslope Vikings 74-58 in the first-ever Open championship.
Pac-12 marks Title IX anniversary with first all-female Hall of Honor class
LAS VEGAS – The Pac-12 Conference celebrated the 50th anniversary of Title IX with its first all-female Hall of Honor class. The event’s success sparked possibilities for more female representation in future years.
Rattlesnake sausages? Cactus League ballparks up their game for spring training
PHOENIX – Food can be one of the highlights for many who visit spring training games. Many stadiums, including Hohokam, Camelback Ranch, American Family Fields and Salt River Fields, are all serving up new offerings this year while also keeping the classics on the menu.
‘Are the KD jerseys here yet?’ Valley businesses excited about possible economic boost from Kevin Durant
PHOENIX – Local bars, restaurants, and sports memorabilia shops have felt the residual effects of Kevin Durant’s arrival in the Valley. Ahead of his Suns debut, downtown is prepared for an increase in foot traffic and sales.
Something to prove: Brewers outfielder Jesse Winker returns from injury with winning mindset
PHOENIX – When Jesse Winker was a member of the Cincinnati Reds, he was known as the guy to destroy the Brewers. Now back in the NL Central division, Winker hopes his familiarity with Milwaukee will benefit him immensely.
‘Confidence is key’: Brewers young pitching staff gets sage advice from team veterans
PHOENIX – With a mix of veterans and rookies filling the clubhouse at American Family Fields of Phoenix, the light at the end of the tunnel lies with the success of the pitching staff. Although spring training games start Friday, the overall message in the clubhouse is to learn from the veterans while soaking in every moment to play at the major league level.
