Joe Eigo
Joe Eigo joe EYE-go (he/him)
Sports Visual Journalist, Phoenix

Joe Eigo expects to graduate in May 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in sports journalism. Eigo is in his third semester at Cronkite News. He has previously worked with Inferno Intel, WCSN, The State Press and The Racing Experts.

Latest from Joe Eigo

Photo essay: Mexican fighters take center stage at Top Rank Boxing in Glendale

GLENDALE – A large Hispanic fanbase watched Oscar Valdez and Liam Wilson face off in the interim junior lightweight title bout, while Seniesa Estrada and Yokasta Valle squared off for five belts in the minimumweight title unification bout.

Oscar Valdez becomes emotional while saluting a crowd filled with Mexican fans who came out to support him. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

Paradise lost: Coyotes, fans share emotional embrace in Arizona swan song

TEMPE — In an emotionally charged atmosphere at a sold-out Mullett Arena, the Arizona Coyotes played what was likely their final game in the Valley after 28 years.

Amid the uncertainty of relocation, devoted fans stand outside Mullett Arena as a symbol of solidarity and love for their beloved Arizona Coyotes. (Photo by Joseph Eigo/Cronkite News)

Pressure? What pressure? Beyond rankings, top Chicago Cubs prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong focused on MLB glory

PHOENIX — Outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, 22, is a future star in MLB. He was drafted by the New York Mets out of Harvard-Westlake School — baseball royalty in the 2010s. One of MiLB’s top prospects, Crow-Armstrong wants to win the World Series.

With eyes set on the majors, Pete Crow-Armstrong's determination fuels his every move as the top Chicago Cubs prospect. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

Ryne Nelson’s dominant spring signals resurgent 2024 campaign with Arizona Diamondbacks

PHOENIX – After a grim 2023 campaign, Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Ryne Nelson’s excellent spring signals a bounce-back season. Due to the team’s offseason additions, Nelson will likely fill a bullpen role this season.

Overcoming past struggles, Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Ryne Nelson secures a spot in the rotation but struggled in his first start Monday against the New York Yankees. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

Full court success: Flooring for Men’s Final Four successfully installed

GLENDALE – One of the last big pieces associated with hosting the Men’s Final Four in Glendale is complete. It is made from first-grade northern hard maple and is 70 feet by 140 feet.

One challenge associated with constructing a basketball court in a football stadium is that it becomes necessary to build a stage for the court to sit on. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

Final chapter: Teams set, storylines aplenty at NCAA Men’s Final Four

PHOENIX – Final Four week has arrived in the Valley, as UConn, Purdue, NC State, and Alabama fans descend upon Phoenix to watch their teams on college basketball’s biggest stage.

Mark Sears, named the West Region MVP, lifts the trophy high after leading Alabama to its first-ever Final Four appearance. (Photo by Bennett Silvyn/Cronkite News)

Oscar Valdez captures WBO interim junior lightweight world title for all his ‘beautiful Mexican fans’

GLENDALE – Born in Nogales, Mexico, and raised in Tucson, no one understands Mexican boxing culture like Oscar Valdez. Defeating Liam Wilson in Glendale Friday was just a singular moment in his inspiring career.

Oscar Valdez falls to his knees in celebration after his seventh round TKO over Liam Wilson Friday at Desert Diamond Arena (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

‘This team will be ready’: Arizona Diamondbacks’ expectations high entering 2024

PHOENIX – After a shocking 2023 season that saw an underdog Arizona Diamondbacks team take center stage in the World Series, the team has no intentions of backing down now. They’re gunning for it all.

Corbin Carroll had a monster season on the base paths in 2023, stealing 54 bases. He will be a key offensive weapon for the Diamondbacks. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

Photo essay: ‘Saddened and shocked’ Ohtani, Dodgers try to move forward after translator betting scandal

GLENDALE – Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani and his teammates enjoyed a promising spring training, but a gambling scandal involving the player’s translator changed the tone of the exhibition season.


Coming home: Chicago native Nicky Lopez brings leadership, culture change to White Sox

GLENDALE - After learning he was being traded to the White Sox the day before his wedding, Nicky Lopez is excited to return home and help change the culture in Chicago.

With a focus on bringing optimism to the Chicago White Sox, Nicky Lopez embraces his role as a leader and aims to contribute to the team's resurgence. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

‘I drove a rocketship today’: Christopher Bell surges to victory at Phoenix Raceway

AVONDALE – Christopher Bell surged into the lead and then victory when Martin Truex Jr. was forced to pit in an emotional NASCAR Cup Series win Sunday at Phoenix Raceway for Bell and Joe Gibbs Racing.

NASCAR Cup Series driver Christopher Bell celebrates in the victory lane at Phoenix Raceway after clinching his seventh Cup Series win Sunday. (Photo by Alyssa Buruato/Cronkite News)

‘It’s 0-0’: ASU women’s basketball hopes to disrupt Pac-12 tournament despite 11th seed

TEMPE – ASU women’s basketball coach Natasha Adair enters her second Pac-12 tournament with experience and a young team growing together.

ASU guard Trayanna Crisp, centers, defends USC’s JuJu Watkins, left, and Kaitlyn Davis in the Sun Devils’ last regular season game before heading off to compete in the Pac-12 Women’s Basketball Tournament. (Photo by Emma Jeanson/Cronkite News)

Topps Spot: A week-long card-signing event in Scottsdale mansion draws Cactus League players

SCOTTSDALE – Tucked deep into Scottsdale, a rented house offers numerous amenities for MLB players to escape the craziness of spring training, all while they autograph cards for Topps Series packs.

Players take a break from signings to enjoy the luxurious amenities at the Topps Spot, including the "Chrome Throne" and a variety of refreshments. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

Spring ahead: Six Cactus League teams feature new managers in dugout, all with same goal

GLENDALE – There are six managers with new teams participating in the Cactus League for spring training. Even though they all bring heaps of experience, they have taken different journeys to get here.

Ron Washington returns to the AL West as manager of the Los Angeles Angels, a division where he previously coached the Texas Rangers. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

Swinging into spring: Previewing every Cactus League team as countdown to 2024 Opening Day begins

PHOENIX - The Cactus League has started and that leaves many fans eager to learn what’s in store for their team in 2024. As teams prepare to play spring training games, learn what’s new and what to expect from all 15 Cactus League teams.

With anticipation in the air and dreams of World Series glory, the Cactus League sets the stage for the 2024 MLB season. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images)

Connected, dangerous and complete: Arizona Diamondbacks aim to cement place among MLB’s elite teams

SCOTTSDALE — As the Arizona Diamondbacks enter 2024 Spring Training, they carry the momentum of their surprising 2023 World Series journey, armed with a bolstered roster and a renewed sense of determination.

Manager Torey Lovullo's Arizona Diamondbacks are poised to prove that their unity, talent and hunger make them a force to be reckoned with in 2024. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

‘Looseness to this group’: Arizona Diamondbacks bullpen enters 2024 Spring Training with sense of relief

SCOTTSDALE – After being a major factor in the team’s 2023 postseason run, the Arizona Diamondbacks bullpen is prepared to take the next step forward and build off the team’s National League pennant.

Ryan Thompson says he's open to stepping into any bullpen role for the Arizona Diamondbacks during the 2024 season. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

MLB managers praise Arizona Diamondbacks for improbable success in 2023

GLENDALE — The Diamondbacks shocked the baseball world with their improbable 2023 postseason run that resulted in a World Series appearance. Looking toward 2024, numerous MLB managers have praised the team for the team’s recent success.

San Diego Padres manager and part-time Valley resident Bob Melvin discusses the 2023 run of the Diamondbacks, a team he used to manage. (Photo by Joseph Eigo/Cronktie News)

Photo essay: Early play at WM Phoenix Open defined by wild weather, record score

SCOTTSDALE – After a three-and-a half- hour rain delay on Thursday, the WM Phoenix Open finished it’s first round Friday with a record-tying score heading into the second round. Here’s a look at the early days of the tournament in pictures.

Players bags lined up in the media center prior to the start of round one of the WM Phoenix Open Thursday. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite news)

O Canada! Nick Taylor impresses fans to north by shooting 60 at WM Phoenix Open

SCOTTSDALE – After a weather delay cut short an excellent start, Nick Taylor finished off his first round by shooting an 11-under bogey-free 60 for a five-shot lead, a PGA Tour record. The effort pleased the many Canadians that were in attendance to see it.


‘Embrace the craziness’: Despite rain delay, players endure at WM Phoenix Open

SCOTTSDALE – The WM Phoenix Open is known for its raucous environment and even though Thursday’s rain delay chased away fans, the true environment showcased itself through the chaos.


Thrill ride: Radford Racing School drives enthusiasm to new heights at Barrett-Jackson auction

SCOTTSDALE – At the Barrett-Jackson car auction in Scottsdale, Radford Racing School seized the opportunity to engage with car enthusiasts, offering them the chance to not only admire fast cars but also experience the thrill of getting behind the wheel themselves.

Attendees explore the Radford Racing School exhibit at the Barrett-Jackson car auction to learn more about driving high-performance vehicles. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

NASCAR’s Next Gen era raises questions of credibility, transparency and the future following Phoenix Raceway fallout

PHOENIX – After NASCAR penalized six different teams after the Phoenix race, the appeals sent shockwaves through the sport, leaving some to call out NASCAR’s inconsistencies in punishment and wonder how the sport will evolve.

In the second year of the NextGen car, NASCAR has dealt with a fair share of controversy during the 2023 Cup Series season. The fallout from Phoenix Raceway's race in March led to one of the largest combined team penalties in the sport’s history. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Milwaukee Brewers, off to 2-1 start, excited about pitching staff

PHOENIX – 2021 Cy Young award winner Corbin Burnes earned the Opening Day starter spot for the Brew Crew as Milwaukee banks on pitching strength for the 2023 season.

Two-time All-Star and 2021 National League Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes is part of a hungry Milwaukee Brewers rotation that eyes the playoffs in 2023. (Photo by Robert Crompton/Cronkite News)

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.

Los Angeles Dodgers veteran Clayton Kershaw says the new pitch clock "won't matter" after adjusting to the rule changes in spring training. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

Los Angeles Dodgers’ starting rotation enters 2023 strong as ever amid absences

GLENDALE – Featuring young stars and veteran leadership, the Dodgers’ starting five boasts a wide array of stories. Regardless, the rotation enters 2023 stronger than ever, ready to compete in a strong NL West.

Tony Gonsolin winds up to throw a baseball.

Edmonton’s ‘Cheat Code’ Connor McDavid showcases skills against Coyotes at Mullett Arena

TEMPE – Oilers centerman Connor McDavid is considered by many to be the best hockey player on the planet. On Monday, he made his debut at Mullett Arena facing the Arizona Coyotes in a unique atmosphere.

Connor McDavid has drawn comparisons to former Oiler legend Wayne Gretzky, who is widely considered the greatest hockey player of all time. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

ASU men’s swimming & diving seeks NCAA title with star-studded squad

TEMPE – Bob Bowman took over the scraps of what was left of ASU’s swim program in 2015. Since then, he’s converted the program into a powerhouse, building the strongest swim team in the country. Now, they’re poised to capture the national championship.

ASU men's swimming & diving became the first non-California school to win the Pac-12 championship. Now, the Sun Devils' sights are set on the NCAA title. (Photo by Chuck Arelei/Pac-12 Conference)

NASCAR levies severe penalties to Hendrick Motorsports, Justin Haley and Denny Hamlin for Phoenix incidents

AVONDALE – For Hendrick Motorsports and Justin Haley, NASCAR issued a historic punishment for illegal modifications made before Sunday’s race at Phoenix Raceway. Denny Hamlin also received penalties for intentionally trying to wreck Ross Chastain during the race.

Kyle Larson is one of four drivers who will receive a 100-point deduction as part of NASCAR's historic ruling on Wednesday. (Photo by Grace Edwards/Cronkite News)

Trayce Thompson writing his own tale in Los Angeles Dodgers outfield

GLENDALE – Trayce Thompson never really got his footing in the big leagues prior to last season. After a good stint with LA last season, the brother of Klay Thompson looks to be the man for Dave Roberts in center field.

Trayce Thompson, the brother of Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson, is scheduled to start in center field for the Los Angeles Dodgers after a solid finish to last season. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

William Byron snatches victory amid late-race chaos at Phoenix Raceway

AVONDALE – William Byron’s teammate Kyle Larson led 201 laps of Sunday’s race at Phoenix Raceway. However, a late race caution opened the door just wide enough for Byron to squeeze his way to victory.

William Byron is on a roll after earning his second consecutive win Sunday at NASCAR’s United Rentals 500 Cup Series at Phoenix Raceway. (Photo by Grace Edwards/Cronkite News)

Gavin Lux’s injury ignites more questions about Dodgers’ stranglehold on NL West

GLENDALE – Gavin Lux, like many young baseball players, dreamed of playing shortstop for the Los Angeles Dodgers. With that goal within his grasp, it was taken from him in an instant Monday when he tore his ACL and learned he was out for the season. The Dodgers now have a huge role to fill.

Gavin Lux speaks to the media after his ACL tear.

Abraham Toro enters Brewers camp with clean slate following wild ride to big leagues

PHOENIX – After a wild ride from Houston to Seattle and Milwaukee, Abraham Toro hopes to earn a role on the Brewers roster in spring training after a career defined by wild moments and difficulty finding playing time.

Abraham Toro's golden opportunity in Brewers spring training comes with stiff competition for the second base job. (Photo by Robert Crompton/Cronkite News)

Head over wheels: Inside NASCAR’s solution to concussion issues with enhanced Next Gen car

AVONDALE – After three NASCAR drivers suffered concussions this past season, including Arizona’s own Alex Bowman, concerns about the safety of the Gen-7 car were put into question and sparked immediate action from NASCAR.

Brad Keslowski gives a thumbs up through the window of his race car.

A-Rod in a Cardinals jersey? Pujols with a pitching wedge? Celebrities compete in WM Phoenix Open

SCOTTSDALE – With two popular sporting events in the Valley this week, celebrities have descended on Arizona. Several, including Alex Rodriguez, Albert Pujols and Michael Phelps, headlined the WM Phoenix Open celebrity Pro-AM.

Michael Phelps, one of the most accomplished Olympians of all time, said he was giddy about competing with PGA Tour pros. (Photo by Grace Edwards/Cronkite News)

Camp Freedom collaboration car sells for $350,000 at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale

SCOTTSDALE – Camp Freedom collaborated with Count’s Kustoms and Shelby America on a custom 2021 Shelby Super Snake. The funds from the auction at Barrett-Jackson will fund Camp Freedom’s work providing outdoor experiences to veterans & first responders in need.

Scottsdale’s Barrett-Jackson auction featured a custom 2021 Shelby Super Snake Count’s Kustoms edition car, which sold last weekend for $350,000. (Photo courtesy of Barrett-Jackson)

Superb Bowl Sundays: Arizona has knack for delivering the goods in big game

PHOENIX – Those who have taken part in three previous Super Bowls played in Arizona remember their historical importance, the big plays and the wild finishes. Will Super Bowl LVI at State Farm Stadium in Glendale deliver again?

Arizona is set to host its fourth Super Bowl on Feb. 12 at State Farm Stadium. The Valley will move into sole possession of fifth place on the list of U.S. metropolitan areas that have hosted the NFL's crown jewel. (Photo by Susan Wong/Cronkite News)

Jimmie Johnson test drives NASCAR’s Next Gen car in Phoenix Raceway return

AVONDALE – It was a big week in the world of NASCAR at Phoenix Raceway. Not only was NASCAR testing new modifications to the Next Gen 7 car, seven-time champion Jimmie Johnson got behind the wheel of the new race car for the first time before his return to the sport.

Seven-time NASCAR Cup champion Jimmie Johnson test drove the Next Gen-7 car at Phoenix Raceway and shared his thoughts after the first day of testing. (Photo by Reece Andrews/Cronkite News)

Jim Harbaugh’s future with Michigan uncertain after Fiesta Bowl loss

GLENDALE - Michigan has now lost in back-to-back College Football Playoff semifinals after its stunning Fiesta Bowl loss to TCU Saturday, sparking new questions about the future of head coach Jim Harbaugh and the Wolverines program.


Two good! Joey Logano secures second NASCAR Cup Series title in Phoenix

AVONDALE – Joey Logano won the NASCAR Cup Series championship in dominant fashion Sunday at Phoenix Raceway, where he joined an elite group and took his son for victory doughnuts on the track.


All gas, no breaks: NASCAR Cup Series Championship revs up for Phoenix finale

PHOENIX – Chase Elliott, Joey Logano, Christopher Bell and Ross Chastain will battle it out for the title Sunday at Phoenix Raceway following a dramatic Round of 8.

Chase Elliott, Joey Logano, Christopher Bell and Ross Chastain will compete in the final four for the NASCAR crown Sunday at Phoenix Raceway. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)

Best of the best: Arizona Sports Hall of Fame inducts six Valley legends

PHOENIX – Several Valley legends were inducted into the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame Tuesday, with Larry Fitzgerald and the late Pedro Gomez highlighting the class.


Local celebrities, athletes put pedal to the medal at NASCAR Racing Experience

AVONDALE – Phoenix Raceway and NASCAR invited local athletes and celebrities to do the NASCAR Racing Experience, driving real race cars and even riding with three-time Daytona 500 winner Dale Jarrett.


ASU soccer’s Nicole Douglas is one for the record books

TEMPE — Nicole Douglas figures to remain atop ASU soccer’s all-time scoring list for a long time to come, but there are other aspects of her game that coach Graham Winkworth believes are too often overlooked.

Although Arizona State forward Nicole Douglas became the school’s all-time leader in goals earlier this season, her game is about a lot more than scoring, coach Graham Winkworth said. (Photo by Susan Wong/Cronkite News)

Jackpot Joey: Logano secures spot at NASCAR Championship 4 in Phoenix with Las Vegas win

LAS VEGAS – Joey Logano will look to win his second NASCAR Cup Series title in Phoenix in three weeks after he secured his ticket Sunday to the Championship 4 in the South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Joey Logano and his 22 car are nudged by Ryan Blaney during a restart of the NASCAR Cup Series Playoff South Point 400 at Vegas Motor Speedway. Logano won and secured an automatic berth in the championship race Nov. 6 at Phoenix Raceway. (Photo by Larry Placido/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

‘Greatest show on surf’: Léon Marchand poised to be ASU’s next superstar

TEMPE – Léon Marchand did something this summer only Michael Phelps has ever done better. Arizona State’s next prodigy has his and his teams sights set for the top this season.


‘Be patient with us’: Arizona State players seek stronger fan backing against Utah

TEMPE – Multiple Arizona State players expressed concern over the lack of fan support Saturday during a loss to Eastern Michigan. They hope for a more positive environment against No. 13 Utah.


Serena Williams’ retirement ripples through the Arizona tennis community

PHOENIX – Serena Williams’ retirement: Arizona tennis community discusses the impact of legend’s legacy