Yankees’ George Lombard Jr. nearing rehab games with Bronx chance looming

New York Yankees SS George Lombard Jr. warming up before entering the game.
George Lombard Jr. is the Yankees' top prospect.

Multiple sprained fingers have cost George Lombard Jr. time at Triple-A, but he is on the precipice of rehab games and may not be far off from The Bronx at some point after he proves he is healthy.

The club’s top prospect has resumed hitting, in addition to field work, putting him in position to go on a minor league rehab assignment “somewhere around this All-Star break,” Cashman said Thursday.

And once he returns to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, if he picks up where he left off before the injury, he has a chance to force his way to the Yankees.

Somerset Patriots shortstop George Lombard Jr. #3, gets high-fives in the dugout after he scored from 3rd base on a sac-fly in the 1st inning on April 17, 2026. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

That would depend on what their shortstop situation looks like with José Caballero and Anthony Volpe.

“Looking forward to getting him back and active and he might be a choice at some point,” Cashman said. “More importantly, we just got to get him playing again and turning him loose again in Triple-A. Really talented player that offensively was coming a long way of closing the gap despite his age. Defensively, he’s plug-and-play, ready to go.”

The 21-year-old Lombard, after an early-season promotion from Double-A, was hitting .231 with a .765 OPS and eight steals in 42 games at Triple-A before getting hurt June 16.

But he had been heating up prior to the injury — “thriving and conquering the final level,” as Cashman put it — hitting .306 with a .998 OPS in 14 June games.

“He’d been pushing himself before the injury,” Cashman said.

San Diego finally backs Michael King’s gem, rides offense to convincing win

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 08: Michael King #34 of the San Diego Padres pitches against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the first inning at Petco Park on July 08, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The San Diego Padres seemed to have turned a corner. The final four games before the All-Star break will tell a bit more, but the club has its first two-game win streak since June 26. The offense also tagged the Arizona Diamondbacks’ pitching staff for a season-high 10 runs last night. San Diego is, at the very least, heading in the right direction.

The lineup looked fantastic in Wednesday night’s win over the Dbacks. Luis Campusano hit his first home run since returning from the IL and Miguel Andujar had three (yes, you read that right) doubles. San Diego will need to keep its foot on the gas to achieve its first series win of July against Arizona tonight.

Taking the mound

Merrill Kelly (AZ) v. Griffin Canning (SD)

Similar to Zac Gallen, Kelly has been an ace in the past for Arizona and has looked nothing like it this year. The right-hander has been saddled with a 5.71 ERA this year. He’s been even worse lately, pitching to a 6.28 ERA in his last 38 2/3 innings.

Prediction of the day: Fernando Tatis Jr. is going to hit a home run. Across 31 at-bats against Kelly, Tatis has four home runs and a 1.186 career OPS. Unless Kelly has his stuff working tonight, it seems plenty possible that No. 6 comes tonight for Tatis.

Canning has actually pitched considerably better in his last two outings than he has this whole season. After turning in his worst start of the year (4 ER, 0.2 IP), Canning has since given up just three runs across 8 1/3 innings. It’s not miraculous, but it’s a start.

Hopefully, Canning can keep that up against the Dbacks tonight. Most of Arizona’s lineup has faced the righty sparingly and none have seem him this season. That should work in Canning’s favor. That said, if he stumbles, the bullpen is well-rested.

Batter up!

While Andujar and Campusano were the headliners on Wednesday evening, Tatis and Jackson Merrill went 4-for-9 from the top two spots in the order. In a night where Manny Machado was getting a rest day, it felt good to watch the lineup produce without the slugger.

  1. Fernando Tatis Jr., RF
  2. Jackson Merrill, CF
  3. Xander Bogaerts, SS
  4. Manny Machado, 3B
  5. Gavin Sheets, LF
  6. Ty France, 1B
  7. Luis Campusano, C
  8. Miguel Andujar, DH
  9. Jake Cronenworth, 2B

The Friars pounded out a convincing 10 runs against Arizona last night. It’s only the third time this season the club has scored runs in the double digits. If the lineup continues to produce consistently that way, the pitching staff would get some stress taken off of them.

Relief corps

With Michael King pitching six innings of one-run ball, and the offense giving the pitching staff a sizable lead to work with, the bullpen had plenty of room to work with. Ron Marinaccio and Kyle Hart covered the final three innings, giving up a combined three runs in those frames. Thankfully, it didn’t affect the outcome of the game.

Jhony Brito has been working out of the bullpen for San Diego since getting called up earlier this week. He’ll be available alongside Yuki Matsui, Mason Miller, Adrian Morejon, Wander Peralta and Bradgley Rodriguez. All figure to be high-leverage options for San Diego to turn to in a close game.

Murakami set for White Sox return Friday after being sidelined by hamstring injury

CHICAGO — Munetaka Murakami is expected to return to the slumping Chicago White Sox on Friday night after being sidelined by a strained right hamstring.

Murakami made two rehab appearances with Triple-A Charlotte, going 2 for 7 with a double. Following Chicago’s 2-1 loss to Boston on Thursday, White Sox manager Will Venable said Murakami would be in the starting lineup for the opener of the team’s weekend series against the Athletics.

“He’s ready to go,” Venable said. “He was challenged running the bases, defensively, had a really long game yesterday. So feel good about the workload, recovered well today so he’s ready to go.”

Murakami got hurt during a 4-3 victory over the Detroit Tigers on May 29, grabbing his right hamstring after beating a throw to first on a fielder’s choice in the third inning. At the time of the injury, the Japanese rookie ranked among the major league leaders with 20 homers, 41 RBIs, 43 runs and a .947 OPS.

Chicago (47-45) is in a virtual tie with Cleveland (48-46) for the lead in the sluggish AL Central. But the White Sox have dropped three in a row and six of eight overall. They managed just two runs and 15 hits in the three-game set against the Red Sox.

White Sox outfielder Andrew Benintendi said getting Murakami back right now is huge.

“Obviously, he’s a presence in the lineup,” he said. “He’ll bring the energy, I think. It seems like the vibe in here is kind of down right now but I’m sure seeing him tomorrow will spark it back up.”

The 26-year-old Murakami signed a $34 million, two-year contract with Chicago in December. The White Sox went 17-18 while he was on the injured list.

“We understand the impact he makes on the field and in the clubhouse so to activate him is going to mean a lot for our group,” Venable said. “Really excited about him.”

Mariners Game #94 Preview and Discussion: SEA at MIA, 7/9

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JULY 02: Bryce Miller #50 of the Seattle Mariners delivers a pitch during the first inning against the Los Angeles Angels at T-Mobile Park on July 02, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jack Compton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Mariners are on the brink of returning to .500 for the eleventh time this season as they aim to avoid a sweep by the Marlins in the second-to-last series before the All-Star break. They are coming off being shut out Wednesday in an uninspiring performance.

They’ll call upon perhaps their most reliable starter of the 2026 campaign so far, Bryce Miller, to attempt to limit a Miami offense that ranks sixth in baseball in on-base percentage (.331).

Miller will be countered by righty Janson Junk, a Federal Way native. Activated off the injured list Thursday (right shin bone inflammation), Junk is making his first start since May 25 and can likely be expected to work within a pitch count. We’ll see if the Mariners can get to the bullpen early.

Lineups

Look familiar? The Mariners will roll out the same batting order for the third consecutive day.

Game Information

First Pitch: 3:40 p.m. PDT

TV:Mariners.TV, with Aaron Goldsmith, Ryan Rowland-Smith and sideline reporter Brad Adam

Radio: 710 AM Seattle Sports, with Rick Rizzs and Angie Mentink

GameThread: Detroit Tigers vs. Athletics, 6:40 p.m.

Detroit Tigers second baseman Hao-Yu Lee (50) bats against the Athletics during the first inning at Comerica Park in Detroit on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Detroit Tigers (42-50) vs. Athletics (41-51)

Time/Place: 6:40 p.m., Comerica Park
SB Nation Site:Athletics Nation
Media:
Detroit SportsNet, MLB.TV, Tigers Radio Network
Pitching Matchup: LHP Framber Valdez (4-6, 4.29 ERA) vs. RHP Jack Perkins (2-4, 6.75 ERA)

PlayerGIPK%BB%GB%FIPfWAR
Valdez18100.217.68.151.64.291.0
Perkins2354.227.98.434.63.990.7

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Celtics waive Dalano Banton

BOSTON, MA - APRIL 12: Dalano Banton #45 of the Boston Celtics during the game against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden on April 12, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Celtics have waived guard Dalano Banton, the team announced on Thursday evening.

Banton played in 6 games between the Celtics and Clippers last season, averaging 2.0 points and 1.8 assists per game. He played 36 minutes in the Celtics regular season finale and had 2 points, 7 assists, 6 turnovers while going 0/3 from the field.

Banton’s best stretch of his career came at the end of the 2023-24 season when he averaged 16.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game with the Portland Trail Blazers.

This move puts the Celtics under the luxury tax and puts the Celtics at 14 players. Boston is allowed to remain at 14 players until the start of the playoffs.

Boston signed Banton to a 10-day contract in February and signed him on the 2nd to last day of the regular season to fill the roster to 15 players.

The Celtics exercised Banton’s team option on June 29th.

Steph Curry reveals his Warriors pitch to LeBron James

STATELINE, Nev. — Steph Curry is looking to lure LeBron James to the Warriors with both basketball and golf — saying the potential pairing would mark a one-of-a-kind moment in sports history.

The Golden State superstar shed light on his recruiting pitch to James while playing in the American Century Championship golf tournament in Lake Tahoe on Thursday, revealing that hoops and fairways have been a part of his conversations with the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.

Steph Curry spoke about LeBron James at the American Century Championship in Nevada on Thursday. Edward Lewis for CA Post

“The pitch is if you want to play good basketball, be around people that know how to play the game, hopefully raise our floor and our competitiveness this year,” Curry said, before adding, “there’s good golf in the Bay.”

“We’re an organization that’s been there. And he knows that,” Curry continued. “It’s self-explanatory. It’s just a matter of where he sees himself fitting. And at the end of the day, that’s up to him.”

Curry made it clear he’d love to play alongside the 22-time All-Star, saying it “would be such a unique story in NBA history — sports history.”

LeBron James has been linked to a number of teams after announcing his split from the Lakers Getty Images

After announcing his split from the Lakers on June 30, James has been linked to a number of teams, including the Warriors.

It’s unclear where exactly Golden State ranks on James’ short list of preferred destinations, and Curry acknowledged he’s been given no indication that the four-time NBA champ plans to play alongside him in 2026.

It’s “a little premature right now to talk about,” Curry said.

Another place Curry would love to see James is on the greens near Lake Tahoe this weekend, as he told The California Post he’d “absolutely” enjoy playing 18 with the former Laker at the tournament.

“If he can get a jet out here for tomorrow,” Curry said, “that’d be awesome.”


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Jeremiah Jackson’s clutch pinch-hit drives Orioles to 3-2 win over Cubs

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JULY 09: Pete Alonso #25 of the Baltimore Orioles celebrates with Gunnar Henderson #2 and Jackson Holliday #7 after scoring in the eighth inning against the Chicago Cubs at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on July 09, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Orioles avoided a sweep and the weather on Thursday, as Jeremiah Jackson’s pinch-hit double in the 8th delivered Baltimore a much-needed win in their series finale with Chicago.

A chaotic bottom of the 8th inning was the defining moment of the O’s win over the Cubbies, and for once the chaos worked in the Orioles favor. Down 2-1, Taylor Ward started the inning with a strikeout. The tying and winning runs then got on base thanks to back-to-back HBP’s. The first came when Chicago reliever Tyler Ferguson ran a sweeper too far inside on Gunnar Henderson, with the ball just clipping the SS to send him to first. The very next pitch, a sinker, got away from Ferguson against Pete Alonso, plunking the O’s slugger and giving Baltimore two runners on with one out.

Manager Craig Albernaz then executed a perfect bait-and-switch to set up Jackson’s game-winning hit. Originally, the Orioles announced that Dylan Beavers would be pinch-hitting for Tyler O’Neill. This prompted the Cubs to bring in left-handed reliever Ryan Rolison, only for Albernaz to swap out Beavers for Jackson. With the count even at 1-1, Rolison tried to sneak a low fastball past Jackson, only for JJ to smash it into the right-center field gap. Henderson scored easily from second to tie the game at two, and Alonso beautifully slid under the tag of catcher Miguel Amaya to put the Orioles on top.

Andrew Kittredge then came in for the save in the top of the 9th as the rain began to pour in Baltimore. Nico Hoerner reached on an E6 by Henderson to start the inning, but was immediately erased when he attempted to steal second, overslid the bag and was tagged out by Gunnar. After an Ian Happ single, Kittredge rolled a would-be double play ball, only for Jackson Holliday to sail the relay throw to first. The missed out wouldn’t matter, as Kittredge got pinch-hitter Michael Conforto to line out to left to end the game.

The O’s rally came after Tyler Wells had surrendered a run in the top of the 8th to give the Cubs their slim and fleeting advantage. NL MVP candidate Pete Crow-Armstrong led off the inning with a sinking line drive to right that deflected off Tyler O’Neill for a double. Alex Bregman then lofted a deep fly out to center, allowing PCA to advance to third. With the potential winning run now 90 feet away, the Orioles pulled in their infield, which allowed a hard grounder from Seiya Suzuki to sneak past Blaze Alexander to put the Cubs up 2-1.

Prior to the 8th, offense had been hard to come by for both teams. O’Neill gave the O’s an early advantage in the 2nd when he blasted a solo homer off Cubs starter David Peterson to put Baltimore up 1-0. After homering in his final two ABs on Wednesday, the long ball on Thursday tied an Orioles record of homering in three straight ABs.

However, two continuing trends kept the Orioles from adding on any insurance: bad hitting against left-handed starters and poor luck at the plate. Despite coming off a start where he allowed nine hits and 10 earned runs, Peterson largely befuddled the O’s offense. Outside of the O’Neill home run, the only other hit the Orioles managed off the former All-Star was a Ward single in the bottom of the 1st. Through the first five innings, with Peterson on the mound, Baltimore went 2-for-16, 0-for-1 with RISP, while striking out twice and working four walks.

The fact that the Orioles continue to turn hard-hit balls into outs didn’t help their cause against Peterson. They got particularly unlucky in the 3rd, where the O’s got the short end of batted-ball luck AND a questionable call by the umpires. To lead off the inning, Leody Taveras laid a perfect bunt down the first-base line for what looked like a sure bunt single. A scrambling Peterson was able to flip the ball to first for a bang-bang, but the first-base umpire originally called Taveras safe. The play went to review, and despite no clear angle that showed the ball beat the runner, the umpires ruled Taveras out.

The O’s would rebound from that injustice by having Adley Rutschman and Ward work back-to-back walks to give Baltimore their first runner in scoring position. That brought the Orioles’ paragon of bad luck, Henderson, up to the plate. The slumping SS smashed a Peterson sinker at 107 mph to the left side of the infield, only for the ball to go right to Cubs’ 2B Nico Hoerner for an inning-ending 4-6-3 double play. The O’s hit five balls Thursday that had an xBA of .500+ that the Cubs turned into outs.

And yet, for a while, it looked like the one run was all the Orioles would need thanks to the continued brilliance of starter Trevor Rogers. The stingy southpaw came into Thursday’s game with a 1.77 ERA over his last six starts and looked just as sharp against Chicago. He worked around a 1st inning, first-and-third, one-out jam by punching out Carson Kelly and getting Michael Busch to fly out, stranding both runners.

Rogers worked a 1-2-3 inning in the 2nd thanks to a pair of groundouts and a K of Dansby Swanson. After a PCA walk in the 3rd, he rolled a double play ball to end the frame and keep the O’s in front.

The Orioles’ de facto ace also got a big boost from his defense as he navigated his fourth quality start in his last seven outings. With Busch on first and two outs in the 4th, Hoerner laced a grounder down the left-field line for a double. Running on contact, Busch came charging hard around third as he tried to tie the game. However, a perfect relay from Ward to Henderson to Samuel Basallo cut the runner down at the plate and preserved the 1-0 lead.

In the 5th, the boost came from the Orioles’ outfield defense as Rogers continued to keep the Cubs off the board. After Swanson singled to left and stole second, Amaya sent a sinking line drive to no-man’s land in center field. However, a good jump and a sliding snag allowed Taveras to rob the Cubs’ catcher of a hit and keep Swanson from scoring.

That aura of invincibility finally wore off for Rogers in the 6th. After getting Bregman to ground out to start the inning, he left a changeup over the plate to Suzuki, who clobbered it over the left-field fence to tie the game at 1-1. The Orioles’ lefty would get two more ground outs to finish the inning and closed his line at 6 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 2 BB and 4 K. Since the beginning of June, Rogers now has a 1.73 ERA across seven starts, while holding opponents to a .195 average.

Bryce Harper is in the Home Run Derby

Jul 1, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (3) reacts after hitting a two RBI double against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the fourth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images | Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

It’s a Home Run Derby, in Philadelphia, in front of a large audience that is focusing their attention on one thing for the night.

Was there any doubt that Bryce Harper would participate?

In news that should surprise no one, Harper is participating in the Home Run Derby (don’t forget – it’s on Netflix this year!), which means he must have found a pitcher that he likes. The last time he participated in one, he did so as a member of the Nationals when the event was held in Washington, with his father throwing to him. Let’s see if he can follow up as a member of the Phillies with the event in Philadelphia.

Bryce Harper commits to Home Run Derby in front of home fans in Philadelphia

Apparently Bryce Harper found somebody to pitch to him.

Harper will participate in the July 13 Home Run Derby at the All-Star Game, once again entering the field when his hometown team hosts the bash. It will be his first appearance since 2018, when he won the Derby in dramatic fashion at Washington's Nationals Park.

That was his last hurrah in D.C., as he signed a 13-year, $330 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies the next winter, and quickly became a focal point of Philly sports, eventually helping the Phillies to the 2022 World Series.

Now 33 and a two-time National League MVP, Harper said he would consider participating in the Derby at Philadelphia's Citizens Bank Park if he was named to the team. He also expressed concern that his father Ron, who pitched to him at the 2018 Derby, would be physically unable to pitch.

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred made sure Harper was there, naming him as a "legend" pick to the game - though to be sure, Harper's first half statistics were sufficient, anyway. Now, a few days later, Harper posted on Instagram that he'd join the fray.

He joins Tampa Bay Rays slugger Junior Caminero, Yankees first baseman Ben Rice, Kansas City Royals first baseman Jac Caglianone and Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras in committing to the Derby. Three more slots remain.

One slot would be perfect for Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber. He lost by the narrowest of margins to Harper in 2018. A rematch as Philly teammates before their home crowd would be a must-see event.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bryce Harper commits to Home Run Derby in front of home fans in Philadelphia

Raptors Reacts Survey: Nostalgia trap or bench supercharger?

TORONTO, CANADA - APRIL 1: DeMar DeRozan #10 of the Sacramento Kings is guarded by Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors during the first half of a basketball game at the Scotiabank Arena on April 1, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Raptors fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

This week’s question shines a spotlight on former Raptor legend DeMar DeRozan. The 36-year-old is nearing the end of his career, and as polarizing as he may be to many Raptors fans, there’s a case to be made that he’s one of the best available options left in free agency.

Last season, DeRozan averaged 18.4 points (lowest-mark since 2012-13), 4.1 assists, and 1.0 steal while shooting 49.7 per cent from the field and 32.0 per cent from three. While DeRozan doesn’t fit the defensive identity that carried the Raptors against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the playoffs, the veteran would immediately one of the best scorers on the roster.

Cast your vote, tell us in the comments, and we’ll be back soon with more Reacts.

LeBron James golfing with Draymond Green in Puerto Rico amid Warriors rumors

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows LeBron James was spotted golfing with Draymond Green in Puerto Rico as free agency speculation continues around a possible Warriors pursuit, Image 2 shows LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts as he's fouled by Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors, Image 3 shows News: Business.Sun Valley Idaho.  Allen and Company annual conference

LeBron James’ free agency has officially moved from the rumor mill to the back nine.

As the NBA waits for James to decide where he will play next season, the four-time MVP was spotted golfing with Draymond Green in Puerto Rico, instantly adding fuel to the Golden State Warriors speculation that has followed him since he left the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this month.

LeBron James was spotted golfing with Draymond Green in Puerto Rico as free agency speculation continues around a possible Warriors pursuit. Getty Images

The sighting was shared by ESPN Cleveland, which posted that “someone” had spotted James and Green on the course. It is not clear whether the two were discussing basketball, free agency or just trying to keep their drives out of the rough.

But with James, every offseason sighting now feels like a clue.

News: Business.Sun Valley Idaho. Allen and Company annual conference. Liz Sullivan

Green and James built part of their legacies by barking at each other through four straight Finals matchups. Now they’re sharing tee times, which makes the recruiting picture a lot more interesting: is Green selling the Warriors, is James selling Green on his next stop, or are two old rivals simply enjoying a few swings while the rest of the sporting world loses its mind?

The idea of James joining Green and Stephen Curry in the Bay Area has gone from impossible fathom to one of the most fascinating possibilities of the summer.

Green’s own free agency has only made the picture more interesting. He declined his $27.7 million player option, a move widely viewed as a way to give the Warriors more flexibility to pursue James.


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But Kevin O’Connor recently raised another possibility: what if Green is not just helping Golden State recruit James, but keeping himself available to follow James somewhere else?

It is speculation, but not outrageous. Green’s defensive IQ, passing and playoff experience would fit almost any contender chasing James, whether that is Cleveland, Miami, Philadelphia or Golden State.

Then there is the funniest subplot of all: golf has somehow become central to LeBron’s free agency.

Shams Charania reported that James has been spending time with family and friends, including plenty of golf, while operating without a firm timetable. Curry, speaking at a golf event of his own, even joked that the Bay Area has “good golf” while making Golden State’s pitch around basketball intelligence, competitiveness and the chance to play with people who know the game.

Rich Paul has also framed James’ decision around “complete happiness,” not just money. Paul even joked that market size is not the deciding factor as long as there is access to indoor and outdoor golf.

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts as he’s fouled by Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors Getty Images

At this point, that line feels less like a throwaway joke and more like a real campaign plank, especially in light of how the James camp has demanded the league communicate with him at this point.

The Warriors can offer Curry, Green, championship experience and, apparently, a respectable golf scene. Cleveland offers the storybook ending and familiar roots. Miami offers history and a loaded roster. Philadelphia offers another star-heavy path to a ring.

James has earned the right to take his time.

But when he is golfing with Green while the Warriors rumors swirl, the NBA ecosystem is going to notice.

The free agency race may not be decided on a golf course.

It just keeps looking more and more like one.

Mark Vientos injury update: Mets first baseman fractures hand vs. Royals

Of course the New York Mets lost another player. That's just how the season is going in Queens.

Mark Vientos fractured his right hand Thursday, July 9 when a pitch from Kansas City's Michael Wacha ran inside and caught him on a checked swing in the second inning. He stayed in to run, came out an inning later and will land on the injured list, interim manager Andy Green confirmed after the Mets' 7-3 win over the Royals at Citi Field.

Green did not indicate a timeline for Vientos' return, but broken bones traditionally take six to eight weeks.

The injury is one more thing that has gone wrong for the Mets in a season where everything is going wrong.

The Mets opened the year with baseball's highest payroll at $358 million, then lost 12 consecutive games in April. They fired manager Carlos Mendoza in late June – the franchise's first in-season managerial change since they axed Willie Randolph in 2008 – days after a six-error game against the Cubs.

The injured list has already swallowed Francisco Lindor, Marcus Semien, Luis Robert Jr. , Clay Holmes, Jorge Polanco and Juan Soto at some point this season. At 40-54 and 11.5 games out of a playoff spot, the only question left is who gets traded by Aug. 3.

That list could have included Vientos before the injury.

He's hitting just .211, a far fall from the 27-homer breakout of 2024. But he is still crushing left-handed pitching, hitting .281 against lefties with a .539 slugging percentage.

Ronny Mauricio, MJ Melendez and Nick Morabito are the 40-man options to fill the spot. Mauricio was optioned just two days ago when Polanco returned. While position players usually have to wait 10 days after being optioned to return, an injury gives the Mets an exception.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mark Vientos injury update: Mets first baseman fractures hand vs. Royals

Dwyane Wade’s son Zaire charged with felony domestic violence after Burbank arrest

Zaire Wade, the 24-year-old son of NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade, has been charged with a felony following his arrest last month in connection with an alleged domestic violence incident in Burbank.

According to a criminal complaint filed Thursday in Los Angeles, Wade faces one felony domestic violence-related charge stemming from a June 21 altercation involving someone with whom he was in a dating relationship.

Zaire Wade has been charged with a felony following his arrest last month. NBAE via Getty Images
The 24-year-old son of NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade. NBAE via Getty Images
Wade faces one felony domestic violence-related charge stemming from a June 21 altercation.
Paramedics evaluated the woman at the scene, but she was not taken to a hospital. NBAE via Getty Images

Police responded to a home around 5:30 a.m. after a 911 caller reported hearing a woman screaming.

When officers arrived, they found Wade and a woman with lacerations to her face and body.

A spokesperson for the Burbank PD told The California Post on June 26 that Zaire was “booked for domestic violence, criminal threats and false imprisonment.”

Zaire Wade talks to the fans during Dwyane Wade’s statue unveiling on October 27, 2024 at Kaseya Center in Miami. NBAE via Getty Images
Burbank PD told The California Post that Zaire was “booked for domestic violence, criminal threats and false imprisonment.” Getty Images for FWRD

Paramedics evaluated the woman at the scene, but she was not taken to a hospital.

Authorities also seized a handgun from the home following the arrest and issued an emergency protective order, NBC reported.


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They found Wade and a woman with lacerations to her face and body.
NBAE via Getty Images

Wade posted a $50,000 bond and was released later that day.

He is the oldest child of Dwyane Wade, the first-ballot Basketball Hall of Famer whose decorated NBA career included three NBA championships, 13 All-Star selections, the 2010 All-Star Game MVP award, eight All-NBA honors, and the league scoring title in 2009, who has not issued any public comment regarding his son’s arrest.

Years before his arrest, Zaire and Bronny James played together during the 2019–2020 high school basketball season at Sierra Canyon School in Chatsworth.