It is safe to say at this point that legendary sportscaster Dick Vitale is not pleased with how the WNBA treats Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark.

Never one to keep his feelings to himself, Vitale has been on an unrelenting tirade in Clark’s defense. On Thursday, the 87-year-old took to social media again. He continued calling out the WNBA over the physical abuse the Fever guard has endured through the years.

Vitale shared a New York Post article on X. The piece was about Clark’s in-game outburst toward a referee on Wednesday night as the Fever lost to the Golden State Valkyries. The three-time All-Star was fuming after a referee missed a call against her. Vitale believes she had every right to go at the game official.

“She has a right to complain as @CaitlinClark22 on many times takes a physical whipping w/o any calls made,” he posted.

She has a right to complain as @CaitlinClark22 on many times takes a physical whipping w/o any calls made. @IndianaFever @ESPNPR @stoolpresidente https://t.co/504PSjBnAG

— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) July 16, 2026

Dick Vitale demands better treatment for Caitlin Clark

Vitale is clearly a big fan of Clark. This is exactly why the former basketball coach has grown tired of the league’s continued mistreatment of the 24-year-old.

On Monday, Vitale posted on X that “it is really sad the way [Clark] is treated by many in the WNBA.” He did not name any names, but he quickly pointed out that the former Iowa Hawkeyes star has elevated the league in more ways than one. “She deserves to be treated like ROYALTY,” demanded Vitale.

The iconic broadcaster’s disdain comes amid Clark’s recent physical altercation. The WNBA suspended Phoenix Mercury All-Star Alyssa Thomas for one game for driving her fist into Clark’s throat during a game.

On July 9, Vitale also went on X. He declared that it “makes no sense that [Clark] is targeted in such a negative manner by her peers.” Clearly, the celebrated commentator wants to see change, and he is willing to lead the crusade for the Fever superstar.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark ‘not too excited’ after WNBA’s big announcement

NBA legend facing intense backlash over Caitlin Clark statement

‘Jaw Dropping’: Fever’s Lexie Hull steals the spotlight with pregame outfit

‘It’s ridiculous’: Caitlin Clark blatantly calls out refs after Fever loss

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The 2026 WNBA All-Star Game is fast approaching. Caitlin Clark will lead the Indiana Fever contingent for this year’s festivities. Joining her for the quick trip to Chicago will be teammates Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell, who will both play in the All-Star Game for the fourth straight season.

Clark, on the other hand, is looking forward to her return to the All-Star stage. She was voted an All-Star last year but was forced to pull out due to injury. This season marks the third consecutive year Clark has been named to the All-Star squad.

The 2026 WNBA All-Star game will be played at United Center in Chicago on July 25.

Indiana Fever announce Caitlin Clark All-Star Game jersey sale

The WNBA announced the rosters for both All-Star teams on Wednesday. Clark and Boston will be on Team Spoon after being drafted by WNBA icon Teresa Weatherspoon. Mitchell, on the other hand, will be on Team Coop under Hall of Famer Cynthia Cooper.

On Thursday, the Fever took to social media to share an exciting announcement. Clark was front and center as the team shared a photo of the team’s star trio in their All-Star jerseys. The team announced that the limited-edition Jordan Brand jerseys are now for sale.

“Don’t Sleep Celebrate our Indiana Fever All-Star Starters with their jerseys! All are now available in Adult and Youth sizes. Grab yours today before they’re gone ” the Fever’s official team store posted.

https://t.co/sk7EcYq1jw

— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) July 16, 2026

Clark and Boston will be in blue for Team Spoon, while Mitchell and the rest of Team Coop will don the red jersey. All three are now available for purchase from the team store. The adult size retails for $130, while the youth size is priced at $90.

Clark and Co. still have a few games coming up before the All-Star break. It starts with a back-to-back set at home on Friday and Saturday against the Seattle Storm and the New York Liberty, respectively.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark ‘not too excited’ after WNBA’s big announcement

NBA legend facing intense backlash over Caitlin Clark statement

‘Jaw Dropping’: Fever’s Lexie Hull steals the spotlight with pregame outfit

‘It’s ridiculous’: Caitlin Clark blatantly calls out refs after Fever loss

The post Fever make exciting Caitlin Clark announcement for WNBA All-Star Game appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson had money on his mind last summer.

One year after signing a four-year, $110 million extension, Johnson told the Rich Eisen Show before training camp in July that he hoped to produce at a high level in 2025 so he’d be in line to ask for a pay raise this offseason.

“Just seeing a lot of the other corners getting paid — I almost feel like we might have another discussion coming up here soon,” Johnson said. “The market is moving, the market is moving.

“As long as I just keep being myself, keep playing at a high level, definitely going to have to be some more conversations coming up soon and really keep it long term. So, I’m looking forward to that.”

At the time, Johnson was ranked by sources around the league as the No. 8 best cornerback in the league, per ESPN.

Things have changed for the worse since then.

Johnson missed 10 games last season with groin and core muscle injuries, the latter needing surgery to repair. He did return in time to play in the postseason.

More News: Chicago Bears: When Maxx Crosby could be available for trade

Chicago Bears CB Jaylon Johnson falls in rankings

More News: Chicago Bears insider noted Rome Odunze’s future in doubt

Johnson has since fallen out of the top 10 cornerback’s ranking for the upcoming season, though an NFL personnel evaluator told Jeremy Fowler that he should return to full strength if he stays healthy and is able to practice in defensive coordinator Dennis Allen’s system.

“Time on task has been an issue,” the evaluator said. “He missed a lot of camp and game action. But he’s young (27), so he should be able to get back to his top form. He’s got juice when he’s full tilt.”

Time on task hasn’t just been an issue for Johnson. The Bears’ second-best cornerback, Kyler Gordon, dealt with soft tissue issues last season, only playing in three games. He dealt with a soft tissue injury this spring, causing the cornerback to miss OTAs and mandatory minicamp.

The injuries to Gordon and Johnson have not been easy for Bears head coach Ben Johnson or Allen to deal with, and were part of the reason why the defense wasn’t that good last year.

The post Chicago Bears CB Jaylon Johnson falls at position ranking appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs need pitching. That’s certainly no secret.

More News: Chicago Cubs prospect named as ideal trade bait ahead of deadline

After all, this is a playoff-caliber team currently with four starting pitchers on the shelf and a handful of relievers out of commission, including their closer.

With the August 3 MLB trade deadline approaching—and the pennant race tightening up—there will be a mad dash to find teams operating as sellers, especially when it comes to pitching.

The Cubs will now be able to identify at least one team as a sure-thing seller—the New York Mets.

The Mets are officially sellers

More News: Chicago Cubs trade deadline aggression may hinge on one key factor

Per Chelsea Janes, SNY MLB Insider, the Mets front office has declared themselves “open for business:”

“A rival executive said the Mets informed their team that the sale is on, and that everyone but young stars Carson Benge, A.J. Ewing, Christian Scott, Nolan McLean and the obvious, Juan Soto, is available. That doesn’t mean everyone will go. But it means the Mets will listen on just about everyone, which is in keeping with what people familiar with their thinking have signaled for weeks.

That the Mets are fielding calls already suggests they will be spreading out their sell-off over several weeks, rather than waiting until the week of the deadline when the market has settled and time constraints create a more frenetic process.”

For the Cubs, specifically, that means Freddy Peralta, Clay Holmes, Luke Weaver, and Brooks Raley could make their way to the team’s shopping list.

Converted starter Holmes has been sidelined since mid-May with a fractured fibula, but is expected to begin a rehab assignment soon. Peralta, meanwhile, has had a down season so far. Both would be rentals (Holmes has a $12 million player option that he would most likely not exercise).

In the bullpen, both Weaver and Raley would be valuable additions as closer-capable reinforcement. Weaver is under contract through next season and Raley will be free agency-eligible at the end of this year.

Padres offering up Mason Miller?

All four Mets would be intriguing acquisitions, but arguably not as intriguing as San Diego Padres closer Mason Miller, who is reportedly being dangled as red-meat trade bait by a Padres team in the doldrums.

Per USA Today’s Bob Nightengale:

“The San Diego Padres looked like they could be a formidable threat to the Los Angeles Dodgers, and now after the past month are talking about unloading All-Star closer Mason Miller and putting their high-priced stars on the market ….

One year, they’re trading away perhaps the finest prospect in baseball, shortstop Leo De Vries, for Athletics All-Star closer Mason Miller.

The next, they’re talking about trading him away.”

Miller to the Cubs is a real stretch, of course.

The Padres will be asking a fortune for the hard-throwing right-hander and the Cubs, even if they were inclined to trade away a collection of quality prospects for a closer, may not even have the high-end prospects to move the Padres front office.

Still, this certainly makes for some interesting debate. It could also move a trade deadline competitor or two towards the Padres and away from teams like the Mets, who offer more realistic trade options for the Cubs.

The post Chicago Cubs early trade shopping? Mets are sellers, Padres dangling Mason Miller appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Caitlin Clark played in her second straight game for the Indiana Fever on Wednesday night. She was still on a minutes restriction, but the fact that she came out of the game relatively unscathed is a good sign for the three-time All-Star.

Prior to this recent stretch, Clark had sat out three out of Indiana’s previous four games. She has been dealing with a back issue that has forced her to miss time.

Nevertheless, Clark’s presence wasn’t enough for the Fever on Wednesday. They struggled to keep up the pace with the Golden State Valkyries, who ultimately secured an impressive 88-75 road win at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Clark played 26 minutes, finishing with 13 points, three rebounds and six assists.

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark brushes off injury scare

Clark was involved in another contentious incident on Wednesday night. Golden State’s Kiah Stokes inadvertently kneed Clark on the quad as the latter drove to the basket. No foul was called on the play, which resulted in a heated moment between Clark and the referee.

Clark said after the game that she thought it was “ridiculous” that the refs missed the foul call. She also noted that she had to play through a contusion for the rest of the game. However, when asked whether the quad issue was a concern, the 24-year-old assured that it wasn’t.

“I will just rub it out,” Clark said in her postgame interview. “She’s fine. Get a little knuckles on it and call it a day.”

The slows are posting screenshots – so I slowed down the video just for them.
This is why Caitlin Clark went off on the ref. A knee to the quad, after being hip held for 10 feet. She was 100% justified. pic.twitter.com/2fH59xklYf

— piercheney (@LVpolitic) July 16, 2026

Fever fans can breathe a sigh of relief. The last thing Indiana needs right now is another injury to Clark. Thankfully, this wasn’t the case, and she should be back on the floor for the next game.

Clark is officially listed as probable to play on Friday against the Seattle Storm. It is worth noting, however, that the Fever play again on Saturday against the New York Liberty. Considering how she’s still working her way back from the back injury, it would not be a coplete shock if the team gives Clark the night off on the tail end of the back-to-back set.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark ‘not too excited’ after WNBA’s big announcement

NBA legend facing intense backlash over Caitlin Clark statement

‘Jaw Dropping’: Fever’s Lexie Hull steals the spotlight with pregame outfit

‘It’s ridiculous’: Caitlin Clark blatantly calls out refs after Fever loss

The post Fever star Caitlin Clark shares positive update after latest injury scare appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Chicago Bulls rookie Caleb Wilson is already making waves not only locally but on the national stage as well. Wilson is coming off a really good showing in the NBA Summer League, just weeks after he was selected No. 4 overall.

Now, after four games in the Summer League, the focus shifts to training camp. From there it will be time for preseason and eventually the regular season.

Our friends at FOCO are celebrating the Bulls’ draft pick with a special bobblehead. FOCO is kicking off an incredible multi-day lineup of new collectibles at 11:10am EST, starting today, Friday, July 17th at 11:10am EST with the first wave of 2026 NBA Draft Pick Bobbleheads featuring newly drafted superstars AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, Caleb Wilson, and Yaxel Lendeborg in their pro threads!

The bobblehead is available NOW for preorder and is exclusive to just 226.

The official image for the bobblehead has yet to be released but it will follow earlier models of the player holding his draft day jersey. It’s the perfect gift for any Bulls’ fans’ collection. Make sure to get yours now exclusively at FOCO.

The post FOCO releases first Caleb Wilson bobblehead after NBA Draft appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs are staring down a tough situation. They may have to trade away a good chunk of their young talent in a bid to add some much-needed pitching by the August 3 MLB trade deadline.

More News: Chicago Cubs trade deadline aggression may hinge on one key factor

The team needs at least one sturdy, steady starting pitcher—but ideally two—to make up for the injuries that have put Edward Cabrera, Ben Brown, Jameson Taillon, and Cade Horton on the shelf. They also need some reinforcement in the bullpen as closer Daniel Palencia remains on the IL, along with crucial setup men Hoby Milner and Hunter Harvey, among others.

The Cubs front office, if they’re serious about doing something in the postseason this year, may have no choice but to make some uncomfortable prospect trade decisions.

Pedro Ramirez, ideal trade bait?

More News: The Chicago Cubs have succeeded in spite of everything

High on the list of Chicago’s most coveted prospects is infielder Pedro Ramirez. As a matter of fact, some feel that the 22-year-old switch-hitter is the top trade bait in their entire organization.

Jesse Rogers of ESPN mentions Ramirez as an ideal candidate to be dealt for pitching:

“Like seemingly every contender, an impact starter and reliever could make the difference for the Cubs. Infielder Pedro Ramirez is a natural fit for a trade as he’s blocked in the infield. Chicago has major league talent available to move.”

Ramirez is an attractive trade piece for several reasons. Many believe that he’s already major league-ready and could contribute to a big league squad immediately. His ability to play multiple positions—second base, third base, and now some corner outfield—gives him added value. He’s also regarded as a player with maturity beyond his years and a high baseball IQ.

Currently, he’s hitting .246 with one home run and seven RBIs in very limited play with the major league Cubs. At Triple-A Iowa, he hit .312 with 9 home runs and 40 RBIs in 43 games while dazzling with the glove.

Turning heads, but stuck behind veterans

The young talent turned heads with his performance in spring training, winning over veterans and impressing coaches. As a matter of fact, manager Craig Counsell flat-out said that he would’ve been just fine with Ramirez being brought up to the bigs right from Opening Day.

“I wouldn’t have hesitated out of spring training. We told him that,” Counsell said.

“He had a wonderful spring. He was the player that the other players talked about. There’s always that guy in spring training.”

“He’s a big-leaguer,” Counsell added. “He’s going to be a good big-leaguer. He’s got a really good head on his shoulders, really good baseball intelligence. It’s great to see him off to a good start and really taking another step.”

The problem is that the Cubs already have Nico Hoerner and Alex Bregman under long-term contracts at second and third. They also have 2023 no. 1 draft pick Matt Shaw playing the super sub role off the bench, essentially doing what Ramirez would be tasked with doing on this team.

So, it would certainly make sense to move Ramirez at the trade deadline, if they don’t end up moving Shaw.

Things should get interesting as August 3 approaches.

The post Chicago Cubs prospect named as ideal trade bait ahead of deadline appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs are set to begin the second half of the season five games behind the first place Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central Division and a half-game ahead of the Philadelphia Phillies for the top NL Wild Card spot.

More News: The Chicago Cubs have succeeded in spite of everything

That’s not a bad place to be for a team withstanding an unprecedented wave of injuries that has decimated both the starting rotation and bullpen.

For many, the August 3 MLB trade deadline represents a “the cavalry is coming” target date for the team, as they could reinforce a battered and strained staff—currently ranked 21st in team ERA—with some much-needed pitching pickups.

But there’s no guarantee on how many impact arms will actually be available at the deadline in what looks to be a tight pennant race. More importantly, there’s no guarantee on how aggressive the Cubs will actually be as the deadline approaches.

Questions regarding Cubs deadline aggression

More News: Former Chicago Cubs president Theo Epstein talks importance of trade deadline impact

According to many media analysts—based off the words of Cubs president Jed Hoyer himself—the team’s level of deadline aggression will depend heavily on how well the team does in the next 2 ½ weeks as they target an important bye in the first round of the playoffs.

Per Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic:

“The Chicago Cubs are 21st [in team ERA], and remain in dire need of pitching help in all forms. Some might come from the injured list (righty starters Jameson Taillon and Edward Cabrera, closer Daniel Palencia, righty reliever Phil Maton). Some almost certainly will need to come from trades, and lefty David Peterson was a start.

Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer perhaps tipped his hand last month on how aggressively he might act at the deadline, saying a first-round bye was critical to a team’s odds of winning the World Series. The Cubs are five games back for the second NL bye, currently held by their division rival, the Brewers. They need to narrow that gap in the next 2 1/2 weeks.”

A crucial stretch is upcoming

And, yeah, Hoyer has also directly said that how well the team does in this next stretch will determine his trade deadline moves.

“It has been a really up-and-down season,” Hoyer told The Athletic earlier this month. “There’s no reason to think that’s the way the rest of the season is going to go. It could go that way, or we could just proceed to level things out, and I hope we do. But, yeah, this is a really important stretch. The market will dictate a lot of those things. But, of course, our play is going to dictate a level of aggressiveness.”

“You have to look at how your team is playing,” Hoyer added, “how you are relative to .500. How are your underlying numbers? How is your health? You have to understand your own team.”

In other words, Chicago won’t be spending the trade capital needed to bring in top-tier pitching at the deadline unless Hoyer and company feel that the team has an edge coming into the postseason.

This mindset may leave Cubs fans once again disappointed, as they were last season, in the team’s trade deadline haul in support of a squad that has shown itself to have the spark of being something special.

The post Chicago Cubs trade deadline aggression may hinge on one key factor appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Caleb Williams isn’t going anywhere. The Chicago Bears are not going to trade the 24-year-old quarterback after an incredible 2025 campaign. Williams completed 330 passes for 3,942 yards and 27 touchdowns. From 68 sacks in 2024 as a rookie, that number plummeted to just 24 last season.

The former USC standout led the Bears to their first NFC North title since 2018 behind a 11-6 record. With Williams under center, the Bears defeated the Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card Round, marking their first playoff win in 15 years.

Simply put, Williams firmly established his status as Chicago’s cornerstone quarterback.

ESPN rates Caleb Williams’ trade value

NFL analyst Bill Barnwell of ESPN recently published a hypothetical list of players on each team that would require at least one first-round pick in a potential trade. In Barnwell’s estimation, Williams would be worth no less than four first-rounders.

“Williams’ status as a high-end prospect and the growth we saw from him in Year 2 still point toward the player out of USC being an incredibly valuable NFL quarterback,” Barnwell wrote. “As a 24-year-old with three years of cost control remaining, Williams is going to be worth much more than a lone first-round pick.

“I would argue that he lands somewhere between Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels, but I suspect that there’s a wide band of opinions about all three and how they should rank.”

To emphasize, the Bears are not considering moving Williams. He is their quarterback of the future, and the organization is intent on giving him a big-money extension once he is eligible after this upcoming season.

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The post Chicago Bears QB Caleb Williams’ expected trade value, revealed appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Indiana Fever dropped to 14-10 on Wednesday night after a tough loss to the Golden State Valkyries.

The Fever entered the game on a high after winning back-to-back games and going 3-1 in their recently concluded four-game road trip. The Valkyries brought them back down to earth, though, as Indiana suffered an 88-75 home loss at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Sophie Cunningham’s contributions were not enough. The 6-foot-1 guard logged 10 points, two rebounds, four steals and two triples off the bench, but as a unit, the Fever just struggled to keep up the pace with a red-hot Valkyries side.

This win marked Golden State’s eighth consecutive victory — a franchise best — as it improved to 18-7 on the season.

Sophie Cunningham reacts to latest Indiana Fever loss

Cunningham got brutally honest as she spoke to the press after the loss. When asked what she felt went wrong against the Valkyries, the eight-year veteran highlighted the Fever’s problems during the game.

“I think we had a little bit too many turnovers,” she said. “They definitely slowed the pace down. And at the end of the day, we’ve got to play what works for us. We got to keep our pace high. We’ve got to play our defensive schemes, take care of business on the defensive end, get boards, and run.

“That’s what we’re good at. We have great people who are awesome in the open court. And so I just think we lacked pace tonight, honestly.”

As Cunningham said, Indiana’s 15 turnovers on the evening were a major issue. It also didn’t help that they shot 40.1% from the floor as a unit. As the 29-year-old pointed out, the Fever allowed the Valkyries to dictate the pace throughout the contest.

The silver lining for Indiana is that they have an immediate chance to get back on track. They return to action on Friday in a home game against the Seattle Storm. That will be followed by another matchup at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Saturday against the New York Liberty.

As of this writing, the Fever are sixth in the standings, tied with the 14-10 Atlanta Dream.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark ‘not too excited’ after WNBA’s big announcement

NBA legend facing intense backlash over Caitlin Clark statement

‘Jaw Dropping’: Fever’s Lexie Hull steals the spotlight with pregame outfit

‘It’s ridiculous’: Caitlin Clark blatantly calls out refs after Fever loss

The post Sophie Cunningham points to Fever’s problems after loss to Valkyries appeared first on ChiCitySports.

After living in NBA purgatory for most of Billy Donovan’s tenure, the Chicago Bulls bottomed out in 2025-26. The Bulls have now overhauled their entire basketball department and retooled their roster. Can the Bulls turn things around once again?

There is not much expected of the Bulls this upcoming season, with their over/under set at 31.5 wins. Looking at the odds, those who play sportsbooks and play at Play Mr.Q casino have taken notice of the assumingly uphill climb the Bulls have in order to get back to relevance in the East.

Chicago Bulls: Historical Context For Where We’re At

Chicago has quite an NBA history, though it certainly hasn’t been smooth sailing. The Bulls, founded in1966, are the Association’s 10th-oldest franchise and rank 13th all-time in wins.

Chicago became the class of the league in the 1990s. The Bulls won an unprecedented six titles in eight years, including three straight twice (1991-93 and 1996-98). They are the only NBA franchise to win multiple championships while never losing an NBA Finals series in their history.

Following the 1998 title, the Bulls went six years without making the playoffs before going on another strong run. From the mid 2000s to the mid-2010s, the Bulls made the playoffs 10 times and reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2011.

However, the Bulls have fallen on hard times recently. Since the start of the 2015 campaign, the Bulls have posted the fifth-worst record at 333-437 (.432). The Bulls have registered just two winning campaigns and two playoff appearances during these 11 years.

The Bulls last made the playoffs in 2022. Part of their problem has been that the Bulls have been in the mix for a playoff spot since then, finishing with 39 or 40 victories, good enough for ninth or 10th in the conference. That was until last season, when they were 12th (31-51), 12 games behind 10th-place Miami.

The Bulls fired the much-maligned  Arturas Karnisovas right before the end of the season. The Bulls hired a young but experienced NBA exec, Bryson Graham, as vice president of basketball operations to replace him. Then, after much deliberation, Billy Donovan decided to step down as head coach. In his place, Graham chose former NBA player and interim head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, Tiago Splitter.

Chicago Bulls Roster Construction and Timeline

Graham has been working in the NBA front office since 2010, with a background heavily focused on scouting, analytics, and roster construction. Speaking of roster construction, Graham has made some interesting and controversial decisions, so it will be interesting to see how Splitter and his staff can maximize the roster.

Graham decided not to go into full rebuild mode this season, rather taking a retooling approach. Drafting Caleb Wilson with the No. 4 pick was a no-brainer, and selecting Dailyn Swain, who has upside, at No. 15 has been relatively well-received.  The surprise move was taking on Nic Claxton in a three-team trade involving the Minnesota Timberwolves and Brooklyn Nets.  He also inked Norman Powell to a two-year, $44.4 million deal, re-signed Zach Collins and dealt Braden Smith, selected with the No. 38 pick, to Indiana for Kam Jones. Jones was waived by the Bulls a week after acquiring him.

Graham has built this year’s team based on his SLAP philosophy – size, length, adaptability and processing. While Powell gives the Bulls much-needed shooting and secondary scoring, Graham focused mostly on improving their defense with Claxton, Wilson and Collins. The Bulls ranked 28th in points allowed and 22nd in defensive rating.

Chicago currently has the third-youngest roster, with an average age of 24.4 for the 14 players on standard contracts. Overall, the Bulls have 10 players, including two minor league players, who are 25 or younger, with eight under 24.

Development Of Youngsters

Part of the reason Graham selected Splitter for the first seat on the bench is his track record of player development as an assistant and head coach. Splitter is also known as a teacher, not just an evaluator. His specialization is defense and developing big men, which he will have his work cut out.

Wilson was in the conversation as a tier-1 draft prospect – AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Cam Boozer – though probably slightly below that trio. He is known for his athleticism, motor, defense and defense. So, while Wilson’s defense will be key for the Bulls this year, Splitter and the Bulls’ coaching staff’s grade of his development will be based on his improvement in offense, particularly shooting.

Wilson has looked very good during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, averaging 24.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.0 blocks, and 1.3 steals while shooting 50.9% from the field and 48.0% from the 3-point line. He has scored at least 18 points in all three games and had a huge first game against Memphis with 35 points.

Swain is a bit more of a project. Like Wilson, Swain is known for his defensive ability, but the big question is whether he can handle being a primary creator, as this is the role the Bulls are putting him in. Known as a slashing wing in college, he has struggled during summer league, particularly when playing point guard.

2025 first-round pick Noa Essengue, who was shut down early last season due to injury, has also struggled offensively this summer. Meanwhile, Jaylin Sellers and Tobe Awaka, both of whom are on two-way deals, have shown promise, as has Donovan Atwell, who has reportedly signed a training camp deal with the Bulls.

Splitter did a tremendous job leading the Trail Blazers to their first winning record and playoff appearance in five years. Moreover, Deni Avdija became a first-time All-Star, and Donovan Clingan took major steps in his development.

In addition to the above players, Rob Dillingham and Leonard Miller are also still in the developmental stage.

Draft Capital, Trade Market and Cap Flexibility

Chicago has 14 players on standard contracts and two players on two-way contracts. The Bulls figure to fill the last spot on the roster as they are $1.96 million under the cap and $37.4 million below the tax line. The Bulls still have the Room exception ($9.3 million) to use on free agents.

Additionally, Chicago has a good chest of assets. The Bulls have seven future first-round picks, four of which are tradable, and 12 second-round selections over the next seven seasons. They also have four trade exceptions that expire at this year’s trade deadline. Two of which hold values of $10 million or more.

So, the Bulls could take a big swing during the season. More importantly, they have a good roster mix that they can deal their vets or younger players depending on how the season starts. Powell, Claxton, and Collins are players to watch as the trade deadline approaches.

The post 3 Bulls Storylines We’re Watching During the NBA Offseason appeared first on ChiCitySports.

When the Chicago Bears selected Colston Loveland 10th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, it was a clear indication that the organization saw immense talent in the Michigan product. The Bears scooped him up after Loveland helped lead the Wolverines to a national championship in 2023.

Caleb Williams was all in on Loveland as well. In fact, Chicago’s cornerstone quarterback wasted no time getting in touch with his new teammates as soon as the Bears drafted Loveland. According to the tight end himself, Williams immediately gave him a call shortly after he was drafted.

Chicago Bears: Colston Loveland reveals Caleb Williams’ draft day call

Loveland recalled his conversation with Williams on a recent appearance on the “Bussin’ With the Boys” podcast. According to Loveland, he spoke to Williams not long after his conversation with Bears general manager Ryan Poles.

“Probably 10 minutes after that,” Loveland said. “Ten minutes after. … But he called, it was like, ‘OK, yeah.’ He was hype. He was like, ‘We’re going to tear this [expletive] up.'”

Colston Loveland said Caleb Williams
called him about 10 minutes after he was drafted. “He was hype, he was like we’re gonna tear this shit up.” pic.twitter.com/Tom3VIcSx9

— Captain Caleb (@captaincaleb18) July 15, 2026

Loveland noted that he also received a message from new teammate Cole Kmet, who he would later share the Bears TE room with.

Loveland repaid everyone’s trust with a big rookie year for Chicago. After a relatively slow start, the young tight end did not stop as soon as he got it going.

Loveland finished his rookie campaign with 58 receptions for 713 yards and six touchdowns. More is expected of him in 2026 as the Bears aim to reach new heights.

Related reading:

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Colston Loveland tells the truth on Caleb Williams-Ben Johnson ‘tension’

Chicago Bears issue statement on death of beloved NFL icon

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The Chicago Bulls are set to wrap up their 2026 NBA Summer League schedule, entering Friday’s finale at 1-3 overall. While Chicago is struggling, including Thursday’s loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, there has been a bright spot.

Rookie Caleb Wilson, who the Bulls took No. 4 overall in 2026 NBA Draft, has been one of the top players in Summer League so far. Not only for the Bulls but the entire league. Wilson has put on a show in four games, showcasing his skill set overall. Not only is Wilson getting it done with scoring but he’s showcasing his perimeter shooting as well as rebounding and defense.

While it’s only Summer League, there’s a lot to like about Wilson’s game early. He’s also earning some praise from analysts and former players. The latest even gave him a nickname.

Kevin Garnett gives Caleb Wilson an awesome nickname

Kevin Garnett entered the league out of high school as one of the top players in the 1995 NBA Draft. He was selected No. 5 overall out of Farragut Academy in Chicago and went on to have a Hall of Fame career. Garnett is considered one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history for his storied career. “The Big Ticket” is now seeing some of himself in Wilson’s game.

Garnett watched Wilson courtside and likes what he’s seen so far. He went as far as calling Wilson the “Little Ticket”:

Reporter talked about KG saying Caleb Wilson is the “little ticket” https://t.co/xZstiG7K3A pic.twitter.com/LNlaPUoIh2

— BullsKickAss (@Bullskickass) July 16, 2026

In the draft process, Wilson drew a comparison to Garnett via their style of play. Many believe Wilson’s ceiling is Garnett, which would turn out to be awesome for the Bulls. As big of a compliment as that is, Wilson’s expectations are being himself.

“We have some similarities, but I feel like we’re much different players. Kevin Garnett’s a Hall of Famer,” Wilson said. “I don’t want to be compared to Hall of Famer because that messes up my expectations…I don’t have expectations of being Kevin Garnett, I just have expectations of being Caleb Wilson.”

It’s early but it feels like the Bulls have a good one.

The post Kevin Garnett has perfect nickname for Chicago Bulls rookie Caleb Wilson appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The post Murakami emerges and embraces as the face of the White Sox appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Last off-season, the Chicago Cubs saw a few members of their elite bullpen depart in free agency, while initially bringing back only Caleb Thielbar on a one year, $4.0 million deal. Meanwhile, Drew Pomeranz, who is now back in the organization, originally signed a deal with the Los Angeles Angels whereas Brad Keller got a massive two year, $22.0 million deal with the Philadelphia Phillies.

For Keller, he capitalized on this large deal by breaking out with Chicago in 2025. He went from an unexpected roster addition to a high-leverage arm, where over 68 outings he recorded 25 holds, three saves, and a 2.07 ERA. This was a drastic improvement compared to his career numbers, which consisted of an ERA over 4.00 at that time.

Unfortunately, his time in Philadelphia may already be over after just 32 games and 31.1 innings pitched as he has suffered a UCL tear. Keller is getting a second opinion on the matter, but if he undergoes surgery he will miss the remainder of this season and potentially all of the 2027 season.

The Chicago Cubs dodged a $22 million bullet by not re-signing Brad Keller

While the Cubs did make a notable addition to their bullpen last offseason by signing Phil Maton to a two-year, $14.5 million contract, they were ultimately wise not to match the Phillies’ commitment to Keller. Philadelphia remains on the hook for the $22 million guaranteed in his deal, regardless of whether he throws another pitch for their organization.

Instead, Chicago allocated its resources more efficiently, such as signing Hoby Milner and Jacob Webb while taking fliers on guys like Trent Thorton, who is now pitching in the big leagues after originally signing a minor league deal with the club. That is all to say that in hindsight, passing on Keller looks like one of the smarter decisions the organization made last offseason.

The post Cubs dodged a $22 million bullet after former reliever capitalized on breakout season appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Sophie Cunningham played her part for the Indiana Fever on Wednesday night against the Golden State Valkyries. The 6-foot-1 guard came off the bench to register 10 points on 3-of-7 shooting with two three-pointers. Her defense was on full display, too, with Cunningham logging four steals in 27 minutes of action.

It still wasn’t enough, though, as the Fever suffered a disappointing 88-75 loss. Golden State snapped Indiana’s two-game winning streak as the Fever dropped to 14-10 on the season. As of this writing, they are sixth in the standings, tied with the Atlanta Dream.

Sophie Cunningham shares unwanted mishap after Indiana Fever game

It only got worse for Cunningham. On Thursday, she took to social media to share an update on how bad her day went after the previous night’s loss.

For starters, the 29-year-old ended up getting the wrong color of nail polish after getting her nails done. This was the least of her concerns, though, as Cunningham was also involved in a minor accident.

“Went to Arby’s right after,” she relayed in an Instagram story. “I was literally getting my food from over here (in the drive-thru), and all of a sudden I get nailed on this side. Some lady drove over a parking block and a sidewalk.

“Whatever. Bad days happen. I was like, you know, it’s all good.”

The good news is that Cunningham is fine. Based on her story, it appeared to be nothing more than a minor fender bender.

That wasn’t the end of it, though. The Fever star revealed that she found a strand of hair on her food from Arby’s, which, incidentally, is a brand that she endorses.

Finally, the eight-year veteran shared that she had to return to Target to have the anti-theft security tag removed from a shirt she had purchased two months ago.

gurl has had a DAY pic.twitter.com/2MFEbLrAAv

— KAYLA (@kbfever93) July 16, 2026

It doesn’t seem like Cunningham sustained any injury from her accident. She should be back on the court on Saturday when the Fever look to bounce back against the Seattle Storm. It will be a home game for Indiana, with tipoff from Gainbridge Fieldhouse scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark ‘not too excited’ after WNBA’s big announcement

NBA legend facing intense backlash over Caitlin Clark statement

‘Jaw Dropping’: Fever’s Lexie Hull steals the spotlight with pregame outfit

‘It’s ridiculous’: Caitlin Clark blatantly calls out refs after Fever loss

The post Sophie Cunningham got into an accident after Indiana Fever game appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Indiana Fever suffered a tough loss on Wednesday. They hosted the Golden State Valkyries at Gainbridge Fieldhouse and ended up on the losing end, 88-75.

The Fever dropped to 14-10 after losing for the first time in three games. The Valkyries, on the other hand, have been red-hot, winning their eighth straight contest.

Caitlin Clark was still on a minutes restriction against the Valkyries. She is still recovering from a back injury, limiting her to just 26 minutes of action on Wednesday night. The three-time All-Star finished with 13 points on 4-of-14 shooting, three rebounds, six assists, one steal, a block and one three-pointer.

Aliyah Boston was also in action against Golden State. She put up 15 points, seven rebounds, one assist, two steals and two triples.

Indiana Fever announce injury updates for Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston

The Fever will be looking to bounce back on Friday when they host the Seattle Storm in another home game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The team has submitted its injury report for the game, and Clark and Boston are both listed.

Clark is probable to play with a back issue. The Fever have consistently listed her on the injury report, and more often than not, the probable tag means that she will play.

Boston, on the other hand, is questionable against Seattle due to a lower right leg injury.

Status Report for tomorrow’s game vs. Seattle:

Aliyah Boston- Questionable (right lower leg)
Caitlin Clark- Probable (back) pic.twitter.com/8LrMqCVvwk

— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) July 16, 2026

Boston is the bigger concern here. She was also listed as questionable to play on July 8 against the Los Angeles Sparks, and she ended up missing that game.

It is also worth noting that the Sparks game was the front end of a back-to-back set. This is also the case for Friday’s game, with the Fever set to play again on Saturday against the New York Liberty. This increases the likelihood of Boston getting the night off against the Storm.

As for Clark, she played on July 8 against L.A., but sat out the following night against the Phoenix Mercury. It remains to be seen if she is now ready to play in a back-to-back. Her status for the Liberty game on Saturday should be closely monitored.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark ‘not too excited’ after WNBA’s big announcement

NBA legend facing intense backlash over Caitlin Clark statement

‘Jaw Dropping’: Fever’s Lexie Hull steals the spotlight with pregame outfit

‘It’s ridiculous’: Caitlin Clark blatantly calls out refs after Fever loss

The post Indiana Fever make Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston injury announcements appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Sophie Cunningham couldn’t do enough to help the Indiana Fever secure a home victory against the Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday night. The 6-foot-1 guard supplied 10 points off the bench on 3-of-7 shooting. Cunnnigham added two rebounds, four steals and two triples in 27 minutes off the bench.

It still wasn’t enough, though, as the Fever struggled to hang on against the Valkyries. Despite Indiana’s effort to keep the game close, Golden State eventually pulled away to score an 88-75 win at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

This snapped the Fever’s two-game winning streak as they fell to 14-10 on the season. The Valkyries, on the other hand, remain red-hot with their franchise-best eighth straight victory. Golden State is now 18-7.

Fever star Sophie Cunningham announces youth camp

Cunningham took to social media before the game to share some personal news. The 6-foot-1 guard is hosting her own youth basketball procamp, which will be held on Sunday at Aletto Family Sports Center in Carmel, Indiana. She also shared a registration link for those interested.

“come hang out ” she posted on X.

come hang out pic.twitter.com/wa9B3oZBw9

— Sophie Cunningham (@sophaller) July 15, 2026

The camp is open to kids ages 6 to 15. Joiners will receive “tips and hands-on instruction, including lectures, fundamental basketball skills stations, contests, and non-contact games in a high-energy, fun, and positive environment.”

Cunningham will need to attend to her day job first before she hosts her camp. The Fever have a back-to-back set coming up on Friday and Saturday against the Seattle Storm and the New York Liberty, respectively.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark had no words after Indiana Fever announcement

Sophie Cunningham had a special guest for Indiana Fever game

Fever guard Lexie Hull announces personal news amid WNBA season

Legendary broadcaster Dick Vitale saddened by unfortunate Caitlin Clark situation

The post Sophie Cunningham makes personal announcement amid Fever season appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Chicago Fire fans will have to wait a little longer for international star Robert Lewandowski’s debut. Thursday’s game scheduled against the Vancouver Whitecaps has officially been postponed due to air quality issues in Chicago.

With the Canada wildfires raging on, spoke is moving down into the Unite States and impacting the Midwest, including Chicago. The air quality index has been over 300 for most of Thursday. That forced the MLS to postpone the game scheduled at Soldier Field.

The decision was made with the health and safety of fans, players, staff, and all event personnel as the top priority. The Club reached the decision in close consultation with local health experts, Major League Soccer, Vancouver Whitecaps FC, and the City of Chicago.

“We share our fans’ disappointment, especially given the excitement surrounding our first match back following the FIFA World Cup break and the anticipation of welcoming more than 40,000 fans to Soldier Field,” said Dave Baldwin, President of Business Operations for Chicago Fire FC. “With a marquee matchup against Vancouver, the anticipated home debut of Robert Lewandowski, and the Two Friends post-match concert, tonight was expected to be a special evening at Soldier Field. While we know this decision is disappointing, health and safety must come first. We appreciate our fans’ understanding and look forward to welcoming them back soon.”

The match has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6, at Soldier Field. The Fire announced that tickets for Thursday’s match will be good for the Oct. 6th match.

As for Lewandowski’s debut, the Fire are heading to Miami to face off against Inter Miami on Wednesday. His home debut will be against Charlotte on August 1st.

The post Robert Lewandowski’s Chicago Fire debut put on hold appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is already looking ahead to her third straight year as a WNBA All-Star.

Last season, Clark was forced to withdraw from the All-Star Game due to injury. The 6-foot guard has been dealing with a back issue of late, but she hopes to be healthy for the highly anticipated exhibition game on July 25.

Clark will lead a trio of Fever players heading to Chicago’s United Center for the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game. Joining the former Iowa Hawkeyes standout are Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell, who are both All-Stars for the fourth consecutive year.

Caitlin Clark not looking forward to facing Indiana Fever teammate Kelsey Mitchell

The WNBA officially announced the All-Star Game rosters on Wednesday after head coaches Cynthia Cooper and Teresa Weatherspoon picked their players.

Clark commented on the big news ahead of Indiana’s home game against the Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday night. The 24-year-old expressed delight about being on the same side as Boston on Team Spoon. However, she admitted that she’s not looking forward to battling Mitchell, who is on Team Coop.

“I knew that probably wasn’t going to happen with three of us,” Clark said. “But just super excited, obviously. I love that I got AB with me.

“I never want to have to guard Kelsey, so not too excited about that; I guess I’ll probably just let her go by me, even if I was trying or not trying. But no, I think it’ll be fun.

“It’ll be kind of weird seeing Kelsey on the other side, though.”

Whether she likes it or not, Clark will likely be matched up against Mitchell at one point in the All-Star Game. As she said, she plans not to exert too much effort on defense against her teammate. However, things could change dramatically once the competitive juices start to flow — especially if the All-Star Game ends up being a close match.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark had no words after Indiana Fever announcement

Sophie Cunningham had a special guest for Indiana Fever game

Fever guard Lexie Hull announces personal news amid WNBA season

Legendary broadcaster Dick Vitale saddened by unfortunate Caitlin Clark situation

The post Caitlin Clark ‘not too excited’ after WNBA’s big announcement appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Chicago teams have always sold more than results. Their biggest athletes become measuring sticks, style references, debate starters and memory anchors for fans who may never live near the United Center, Soldier Field or Wrigley Field. That is why a Bulls guard from the 1990s, a Blackhawks captain from Winnipeg and a teenage hockey prospect from British Columbia can all sit inside the same conversation.

For Canadian readers, Chicago is not just another American sports city. It is close enough to feel familiar, big enough to feel mythic and layered enough to matter across basketball, hockey, football and baseball. The city’s athletes travel through highlight reels, national broadcasts, documentaries, fantasy pools and family arguments about what greatness should look like.

For Canadian readers, following Chicago athletes can be even more exciting when there’s something on the line. If you want to back your favorite player or add an extra layer of excitement to the game, exploring Saskatchewan sports betting options can make every matchup even more engaging. Regardless of how you choose to watch, the real appeal still comes from what these athletes do on the field, court, or ice.

Why Michael Jordan Still Defines the Chicago Template

Michael Jordan is the obvious starting point because his Chicago story moved far beyond basketball. Six championships, five regular-season MVP awards and six Finals MVP awards created the hard record. The larger imprint came from how his game, branding and playoff moments gave fans a shared language for dominance.

That matters in Canada because Jordan became bigger than local allegiance. A Raptors fan, a hockey-first viewer in Saskatchewan or a kid watching old Bulls clips online can understand the shorthand immediately. When someone says a player has “Jordan-like” control of a moment, they are usually talking about more than scoring.

Jordan also built the Chicago athlete template: elite performance, visible personality, clear visual identity and repeatable signature moments. The fadeaway, the No. 23 jersey, the hand switch against the Lakers and the final shot in Utah all became portable references. They do not require a Chicago zip code to make sense.

The Chicago Star Formula Across Sports

Chicago’s most memorable athletes are not identical. Some were champions, some were cultural symbols and some became compelling because of what they represented to a specific fan base. The pattern is that each gave people a simple way to understand a bigger sports idea.

The table shows why Chicago sports exports so well. It does not depend on one league or one decade. The city keeps producing athletes who turn into reference points for different kinds of fans.

For basketball readers, Jordan and Pippen represent the dynasty model. Rose represents the fragile beauty of a peak that felt almost too fast to last. For hockey readers, Toews and Bedard create a different bridge, one rooted in Canada’s player-development culture and Chicago’s historical weight as an NHL market.

Why Canadian Fans Read Chicago Stars Differently

Canadian fans often view Chicago through a dual lens. Basketball followers see the Bulls as a global brand that made the NBA feel unavoidable in the 1990s. Hockey followers see the Blackhawks as a historic franchise that has repeatedly placed Canadian players in high-pressure roles.

That makes Connor Bedard especially interesting. He arrived in Chicago not as an anonymous rookie, but as a player many Canadian fans had already tracked through junior hockey, international tournaments and draft coverage. By the time he put on a Blackhawks jersey, the story had already crossed provincial lines.

Jonathan Toews created a different kind of connection. A Winnipeg-born captain leading a Chicago team gave Canadian viewers an easy emotional entry point into a U.S. franchise. He was not simply “playing in America.” He was carrying traits Canadian hockey culture tends to recognize quickly: responsibility, composure, defensive detail and playoff steadiness.

This is why Chicago athletes can feel familiar even from far away. Their stories fit into existing Canadian sports habits, then add the scale of a major American market.

What Makes a Chicago Athlete Become a Reference Point?

Not every star travels. Some are excellent in the moment but fade from wider conversation. The Chicago athletes who last usually check several boxes:

• A clear signature: Jordan’s late-game command, Rose’s burst, Toews’ leadership or Bedard’s release.
• A city-sized narrative: the athlete has to carry pressure that feels larger than the schedule.
• A repeatable comparison: fans need a simple way to use that athlete as a measuring stick.
• A visual memory: a jersey number, celebration, shot, shift or playoff image that sticks.
• A bridge outside Chicago: the story has to matter to people who follow the sport nationally or internationally.

That last point is crucial. Jordan did not become a reference point because Bulls fans admired him. He became one because everyone else needed a way to talk about what he was doing. Bedard’s case is still developing, but the early interest works the same way: fans outside Chicago watch because his career may help define what the Blackhawks become next.

The Bedard Question and the Next Chicago Chapter

Bedard is not Jordan, and framing him that way would be unfair. The useful comparison is not about achievements. It is about attention pressure.

Jordan inherited a Bulls team that needed a center of gravity. Bedard entered a Blackhawks rebuild with a similar need for direction, even if the sport, timeline and expectations are different. In both cases, a young player became the easiest way for outsiders to understand where a Chicago franchise might be heading.

For Canadian readers, Bedard adds another layer. He is not just a Chicago prospect. He is a Canadian player whose development has been watched through a national lens, from junior hockey to the NHL draft and into the early years of his professional career. That makes his Chicago story feel partly local to Canada, even while it belongs to the Blackhawks.

The better way to watch him is with patience. Great reference points are not created by hype alone. They need seasons, adversity, teammates, tactical growth and moments that survive beyond a news cycle.

Why These Stories Keep Crossing the Border

Chicago’s sports identity is built on contrast. It has glamour and frustration, dynasties and rebuilds, old buildings and modern media, loyal local crowds and global recognition. That combination makes its athletes easy to export.

Jordan gave Chicago a global basketball language. Pippen showed how a dynasty needs structure around its brightest star. Rose turned a short peak into a lasting emotional connection. Toews gave Canadian hockey fans a captain they could recognize inside a U.S. market. Bedard now gives a new generation a reason to track Chicago again.

That is the real cross-border pattern. The teams matter, but the athletes make the story portable. Chicago becomes a place where greatness, pressure and identity are tested in public, and Canadian fans have plenty of reasons to keep watching.

The post How Chicago Athletes Became Cross-Border Sports Reference Points appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs are 54-42 on the season as the second half is about to begin. Indeed, the first half of the season saw Chicago go through quite the roller coaster. From a strong start and two different 10-game winning streaks to a 10-game losing streak and a month without a series win, the Cubs have been all over the place in 2026.

It is no coincidence, too, that their ebbs and flows have come as their pitching staff has had to overcome injury after injury after injury. Multiple Cubs starters are out for the year, and even more have done more than one stint on the injured list already. Their bullpen has not been much healthier.

If Chicago is going to keep pace in the division, they need pitching.

Former Chicago Cubs pitcher Aaron Civale is available again

Earlier today, it was reported that former Cubs pitcher Aaron Civale has been designated for assignment by the Athletics:

Athletics To Designate Aaron Civale For Assignment https://t.co/7jn3lZduUq pic.twitter.com/JApZJXLOUV

— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) July 16, 2026

So far in 2026, Civale has appeared in 16 games (15 starts) and is 5-7 with a 5.42 ERA.

Obviously, these numbers are not great, and they would not necessarily give any Cubs fan confidence that adding him would do much good for the team.

It is worth considering, though, that Civale was in a similar circumstance last year, and Chicago was able to take advantage of it.

The long-time veteran started the year with Milwaukee Brewers in 2025. After being told they were going to move him to the bullpen ahead of promoting Jacob Misiorowski, Civale demanded a trade. As a result, the Brewers sent him to the Chicago White Sox for Andrew Vaughn.

At the time of the trade, Civale was 1-2 with a 4.91 ERA. After the trade, he was downright awful for the White Sox, going 2-7 with a 5.37 ERA.

When the South Side team designated for assignment late in the year, the Cubs added him. Instead of inserting him into their starting rotation, they brought him out of the bullpen. He was 1-0 with a 2.08 ERA in five appearances with the North Side team.

At this point, the Cubs need healthy arms in both the starting rotation and bullpen. Civale can do both. His numbers as a starter have not been great, but perhaps the chance to pitch for a contender, even out of the bullpen, would appeal to him.

More Chicago Cubs news from ChiCity Sports

• Cubs urged to avoid this tempting trade target
• Pete Crow-Armstrong talks plan to dethrone Shohei Ohtani as MVP
• Cubs insider apologizes to executives, per report

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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In 2025, the Chicago Bears had, by far, the best turnover differential in the NFL with +22. Not only was this a testament to how well quarterback Caleb Williams and the offense took care of the ball, but also to how adept the defense was at forcing turnovers. They had a league-leading 23 interceptions that contributed to this number.

Of these 23 interceptions, 10 of them were recorded by Bears safeties. In particular, former Chicago safety Kevin Byard III had seven. Jaquan Brisker had one, and CJ Gardner-Johnson had two. Those 10 picks accounted for about 43% of Chicago’s interceptions.

The problem, though, is that none of these three players are on the Bears roster anymore.

Chicago Bears safeties being left off a top-10 ranking highlight major questions

All three of Chicago’s top safeties departed in free agency this off-season. In an effort to rebuild the room, the Bears signed Coby Bryant, who won the Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks last year, and drafted Dillon Thieneman in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

But when ESPN released its top-10 safeties list, as voted on by NFL coaches, executives, and scouts, no Chicago players at the position were listed. Bryant was an honorable mention, with a quote from an anonymous NFL coordinator, “I love him. He’s a corner by trade, so he has good feet and ball skills, but he will hit, too, now.”

The Super Bowl champion had four interceptions last season while playing for Seattle, which would have ranked third on the Bears roster a year ago.

Indeed, while there is a great deal of optimism surrounding Chicago’s offense, there are many unanswered questions regarding the defense. The pass rush was not a very big focus, and many believe it should have been. Last season’s secondary was able to generate turnovers despite a relatively weak pass rush, and now they are all gone.

If this year’s safety room does not produce turnovers at the same rate as last season’s, it could be a real problem for the Bears.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears insider noted Rome Odunze’s future is in doubt
• Colston Loveland has 1 Caleb Williams promise if Bears win Super Bowl
• Colston Loveland tells truth on Caleb Williams-Ben Johnson ‘tension’

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

The post Chicago Bears safeties left off top-10 list, highlighting major question mark going into 2026 appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs have taken blow after blow this season. They’ve taken so many gut punches that nobody would’ve blamed them if they just tossed in the towel on an ill-fated 2026 in hopes of a better 2027.

More News: Former Chicago Cubs president Theo Epstein talks importance of trade deadline impact

It’s hard to imagine a bigger blow than losing four starters from your rotation, your closer, and a handful of relievers from your bullpen. That’s what the Cubs have suffered through in this first half of 2026.

Yet, the team is headed into the other side of the All-Star break twelve games above .500 and in the top NL Wild Card spot.

Seriously—given all the losses and the fact that the pitching staff is currently manned by emergency fill-ins and castoffs from other teams—this shouldn’t be happening.

Winning against the odds

More News: Chicago Cubs urged to avoid this temping trade target

Aldo Soto, blogger at Sports Mockery, recently pointed this out in a Tweet which sums things up pretty nicely:

The Cubs at the All-Star break:
23rd in rotation ERA
16th in bullpen ERA
6th fewest quality starts
4th most blown saves

Meanwhile, over 35 games, they had baseball’s 3rd-worst offense.

And yet they have the 5th best record in MLB.”

Throwing in the fact that even the offense has been spotty and inconsistent is important.

All of this begs the question of how Chicago is doing this.

To be honest, the biggest factor motoring this Cubs team seems to be gumption and true grit. To the credit of Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer, this team has been put together with character in mind—and it shows.

True Grit

“I’m proud of how hard it was for us and how much adversity was thrown our way,” Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong told reporters prior to the All-Star break. “For how beat up we were, for how many guys have cycled through here…this was a friggin’ team effort, this first half.”

This truly has been a no-quit squad, as their 10 walk-off wins this season proves. But even earlier in the year, Chicago’s moxie was plainly evident.

“I never saw our guys waver or falter today,” pitcher Jameson Taillon told media after a crazy come-from-behind victory back in April. “It would have been easy going down 5-0 and just kind of be like ‘welp, let’s go on the road we got swept’, it was just a really cool vibe and energy today where I thought everyone was picking each other up, guys passing the baton to each other as the game went.”

Under manager Craig Counsell, the team has adopted a next-man-up mindset in dealing with setbacks and injuries. When one Cub falls, another one steps up to fill the gap. And they’ve been doing this all year.

There’s also an elite defense helping the team along, of course, and enough offense to always be dangerous. Plus, Crow-Armstrong has beeen almost obscene in his greatness, especially the last two months or so.

But resiliency is the defining characteristic of this team.

Hopefully, the front office can add some pitching depth by the August 3 trade deadline to provide some support for the push to the postseason.

The post The Chicago Cubs have succeeded in spite of everything appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark has emerged as one of the most polarizing figures in sports. The 24-year-old has amassed a huge following of faithful fans. However, there is also a significant number of haters and naysayers who seem to take pleasure in directing negativity toward Clark’s direction.

NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar does not exactly classify as a hater. However, the six-time champion had some choice words to say as he shared his brutally honest opinion on the debate over Clark’s status in the WNBA. Abdul-Jabbar made it abundantly clear that he does not believe Clark deserves the title of being the face of the league.

“Clark is a very good, possibly even a great, player, but calling any one player the face of the league, absent the sort of on-court and cross-platform dominance of a Michael Jordan or a LeBron James, is an insult to an awful lot of great players,” the Los Angeles Lakers legend wrote in a recent edition of his Substack.

Fans react to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s strong Caitlin Clark take

Abdul-Jabbar definitely ruffled some feathers with his blunt statement on Clark. As mentioned earlier, the Fever star has a very devoted following, who are also quite passionate about their idol. These fans did not hold back in their reactions to Abdul-Jabbar’s comments.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar says calling Caitlin Clark the face of the WNBA is disrespectful to those who’ve paved the way. pic.twitter.com/qdJRyRknIo

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) July 15, 2026

“Kareem was always a jack*** and nobody could stand him. A cactus has a better personality. He sounds like a crusty old bitter racist man here. Nothing to see, move on….” a comment on X read.

“Kareem is a hater. He can’t stand that the WNBA and to some degree, the NBA are turning into leagues being dominated by white players,” another said.

“Too much noise. Let her play basketball and quit with the negative commentary 24/7. It’s disrespectful. She got the friggin league paid. Show some kind of respect too!!” a supporter wrote.

“I’m so sick of ppl like Kareem. Just over their bull****,” said another.

“Kareem just mad he didn’t get paid like the players today. Quit trying to compare NBA and WNBA. Two different leagues,” declared a reader.

“He’s pulling that hot take from 1981 when Magic made it clear he and Bird were the new face of the NBA. Cry harder,” a reaction read.

For what it’s worth, NBC published a report in May 2025 that Clark, with all the eyes she draws on the league, was estimated to have an economic impact of more than a billion dollars on the WNBA.

That was last year. At this point, Clark’s unprecedented fame just continues to rise, so it’s very much possible that number has proportionally grown as well.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark had no words after Indiana Fever announcement

Sophie Cunningham had a special guest for Indiana Fever game

Fever guard Lexie Hull announces personal news amid WNBA season

Legendary broadcaster Dick Vitale saddened by unfortunate Caitlin Clark situation

The post NBA legend facing intense backlash over Caitlin Clark statement appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are coming off a season in which they went 11-6 and won the NFC North. In 2026, they are hoping to be even better and separate themselves further from the rest of the division. After making it to the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs last season, the expectation is that they will go even further this upcoming year.

In order for that to happen, their young core of players who showed a great deal of improvement in 2025 under head coach Ben Johnson must take even more steps forward. If they do so, not only will Chicago go even further in the postseason, but those players will also get some well-deserved recognition.

NFL analyst names Chicago Bears stars Caleb Williams and Colston Loveland as possible first-time Pro Bowlers in 2026

Two of the stars that emerged as some of the brightest young players in the NFL last year were Bears quarterback Caleb Williams and tight end Colston Loveland. In a recent article posted by Sports Illustrated, Connor Orr predicted that both Williams and Loveland will be among the first-time Pro Bowlers in 2026.

On Williams, Orr wrote, in part, “Williams is now expected to have the season this year that Jayden Daniels was expected to have a year ago, which creates both perilous expectations and relentless hype. The difference, I think, is that Williams’s sack avoidance will remain an elite trait for at least another few seasons of his peak athleticism, which will allow him to buy time and capture more chunk-downfield plays.”

And on Loveland, “Loveland is sort of a hyperextension of Sean McVay’s and Kyle Shanahan’s quest to create the perfectly amoebic offense that plays like several different personnel groupings. We saw him capably catching passes out wide last year and even out of the backfield as a fullback (it wasn’t just Tyler Warren).

“Loveland impressed me the most, though, when watching his second-nature reaction to moments when Caleb Williams was scrambling or turning his back to the field. Loveland knew exactly where and when to break and caught a healthy number of additional balls simply due to his developing relationship with Williams.”

Williams, of course, has gained national attention as the player who will don the cover of the next Madden video game. Loveland, meanwhile, is arguably the best tight end in his division, one that many believe has the best depth at the position in the NFL.

If both Williams and Loveland are able to take steps forward from the seasons they had in 2025, Chicago is going to have a special year on offense.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

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For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Cubs have worked through every hurdle and gut check thrown their way and have still managed to emerge from the All-Star break as a playoff-level team, currently in the top NL Wild Card spot and twelve games over .500.

More News: Chicago Cubs urged to avoid this temping trade target

But, realistically, the patchwork pitching staff the team is currently fielding won’t get them very far into the postseason, if it doesn’t completely collapse on them before even getting there.

Injuries have decimated both the starting rotation and the bullpen and, other than the hope of a healthy return for a couple of arms, there’s no cavalry riding in to save Cubs pitching.

So, this season, the August 3 MLB trade deadline has taken on an exaggerated level of importance.

By consensus opinion, Chicago needs to walk away from the deadline with, at least, a front-of-rotation starter, a rotation-capable swingman, and at least a couple of dependable relievers.

Last season, in a similar pitching-minded spot, Cubs president Jed Hoyer and the front office failed to bring in an impact arm at the deadline. The end result saw a gritty, tough Cubs team battle its way to the second round of the playoffs before collapsing, in great part, due to a pitching deficiency.

Some critics are already anticipating a Cubs letdown at the deadline and voicing their concern over letting another special season go to waste by an unwillingness to pull the trigger on a big trade. They argue about just how much an impact acquisition would not only fill in a gaping roster hole, but also energize the team to keep pushing forward.

Theo Epstein on the importance of a trade deadline impact

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In a recent appearance on The Lovable Reunion podcast with David Ross and Anthony Rizzo, former Cubs president talked about the steep price he paid to acquire Aroldis Chapman from the New York Yankees at the trade deadline in 2016 and how, ultimately, it helped propel the team to its first World Series win in 108 years.

“From the outside looking in, or if you take just a purely analytical look at baseball, you don’t understand the impact that it has in the clubhouse,” Epstein recalled. “These guys have done all their offseason work, grinded all of spring training, put the nuts on the line the whole season. And then they look at the front office like, ‘You guys have one f***ing job! Get us what we need.’

“I’ve been through years where you just can’t get it. Because you’re asking to be paid like five times the prices. You just can’t do it, and you feel like you just let everybody down. So take it very personally as an organization: We need to deliver.

“We’re not going to always mortgage the future, but we have to do our job and give these guys what they need, because it gives you that boost of energy. And then you feel connected, like, ‘Hey, they have our back. All the sacrifice was worth it.’ It has an amplifying effect.

“That was a deal that — I would have mocked it if someone else did it.”

“No one’s gonna beat us!”

Obviously, the trade paid off. It fueled an already highly-motivated team to push even harder for a championship.

Rizzo, in an appearance on the Glory Daze Podcast last year, affirmed what Epstein felt to be true about the jolt such a move gives to a team—and, conversely, how much of a buzzkill it is when the team fails to make that big trade.

“We were in 2016 and we were the best team and then we go out and get the best closer, Aroldis Chapman. And we’re just like, ‘Holy sh*t, no one’s gonna beat us,’” Rizzo said.

“And then there’s years where we’re in that same position and they don’t give us that boost…In the clubhouse, you’re like ‘What are we doing?’ And it’s no disrespect to the guys they bring in…There have been years where there are guys out there that we know we can go get that the front offices don’t align or what not. But when you get that big piece it’s [a huge shot in the arm].”

Time will tell how this year’s trade deadline plays out.

The post Former Chicago Cubs president Theo Epstein talks importance of trade deadline impact appeared first on ChiCitySports.

In the mid-2010’s and early 2020’s, Kyle Schwarber was among the most popular Chicago Cubs players. He was, and still is, a three outcome hitter. For the most part, he either walks, strikes out, or hits a towering home run. In six seasons with the Cubs (during which he was healthy for five of those years), he mashed 121 home runs.

In five seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, Schwarber has hit 219 home runs. Last year, he led the National League with 56 bombs, and this season leads all of baseball with 32. He also struck out 197 times last year and this season leads the Majors with 144 punch outs.

It is still early, but Chicago may have gotten a player who can be what Schwarber was for the Cubs and still is for the Phillies in the 2026 MLB Draft.

Chicago Cubs second round pick Myles Bailey could be the next Kyle Shwarber

Currently, the Cubs have plenty of young stars that bring a great deal of excitement to the lineup. That being said, Myles Bailey, their second round pick, has been projected by ESPN to be a lot like Schwarber:

“Myles Bailey (second round) is a pretty easy prospect to understand, even though he missed much of this season because of shoulder surgery: plus-plus raw power, lots of homers, and an uphill swing that helps create a ton of swing and miss. He’s a solid first-base defender and has plus pitch selection, so this could work, but it’ll come with lots of deep counts and true three outcomes.”

As one can see, Schwarber is not mentioned by name, but the profile is very similar. He strikeouts out and walks a great deal, but also hits a ton of home runs.

The key, though, is going to be health. Bailey should be able to overcome the shoulder injury that shortened his season, and if he does, Chicago will have an exciting power hitter on their hands.

In 26 games at Florida State this year, Bailey hit .363/.582/.913 with 13 home runs and 33 RBI. He walked 35 times and struck out 30 times.

More Chicago Cubs news from ChiCity Sports

• Cubs urged to avoid this tempting trade target
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For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Things can change quickly in the NFL, and Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze is on the hot seat in training camp.

Odunze, the No. 9 pick in the 2024 draft, is facing a pivotal year in Year 3 while coming off of a stress fracture in his left foot. The receiver told reporters this spring that he has a “new normal” after the injury.

This is my new normal,” Odunze said. “And it’s not from a standpoint that I’m always in pain, but the way my foot broke, there’s callouses in there that create a different type of foot structure with those bones — different types of things that kind of shift things around.

“So my new normal is kind of what I am going into.”

Courtney Cronin of ESPN named Odunze as one of five players that have the most to show in training camp this summer. Luther Burden III had a phenomenal rookie season, and he could usurp Odunze as the WR1 after DJ Moore was traded to the Buffalo Bills this offseason.

“If Odunze’s “new normal” allows him to live up to his status as the No. 9 draft pick, then his career trajectory will continue moving upward,” Cronin wrote. “But with a hungry Luther Burden III also eyeing the distinction as the Bears’ top wideout, Odunze has to prove he can cement himself in that role.”

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Odunze was Caleb Williams’ No. 1 receiver until the injury. He wound up finishing third in receiving with 661 yards and six touchdowns on 44 receptions. Tight end Colston Loveland became the Bears’ leading receiver last season after Odunze’s injury.

The Bears believe Odunze will still be a key contributor this season despite the changes to the receiver’s foot. That’s not the question heading into training camp.

The question is what will the Bears’ long-term vision of Odunze be going into the offseason? Odunze will be eligible for a contract extension after the season is over. They could decide to pick up his fifth-year option during the 2027 offseason.

All of those decisions will depend on the output Odunze has this season.

The Bears have a plethora of riches at tight ends and receivers, which means it will be hard for Chicago to keep all of those hands on the team when Williams eventually signs a mega-quarterback deal.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Cubs are 54-42 as they prepare to start the second half of the 2026 MLB season. This past week, they have enjoyed a few days off for the All-Star break, which also came at the tail end of the amateur draft. Now with a new crop of prospects, Chicago not only is looking ahead to the immediate future and a push for the postseason, but also competing for playoff spots in the years to come.

Indeed, the Cubs have a promising farm system already, and it just got even better with the new crop of prospects that they added in the draft.

Of course, fans will now be anxiously awaiting to see which prospects will rise through the minors the fastest, and ESPN believes they know which one will.

ESPN believes Chicago Cubs first round pick Cade Townsend will reach the Majors the fastest

In their recap and analysis of each team’s draft haul, ESPN identified which prospect they believe will reach the Majors first in Chicago. Perhaps not surprisingly, they identified first round pick Cade Townsend:

“RHP Cade Townsend (first round) has a very clean and pretty pitch movement plot with six pitches spaced out well and all of them with above-average velocity.

“He performed well as a starter in the SEC and the main concerns are his higher release (which makes his fastball shape just OK, and creates a reliance on breaking pitches), the durability questions created by his size (6-foot-1) and his fastball command needing to get one notch better.

“Those are pretty typical prospect questions and that adds up to a solid first-rounder when the upside is a No. 2/No. 3 starter.”

Obviously, the Cubs need starting pitching help now too. But on the bright side, at least they now have another front of the rotation prospect in their system. If he lives up to the hype, it should not be long before he another Cade (Horton) are both headlining Chicago’s starting rotation.

More Chicago Cubs news from ChiCity Sports

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For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Stephanie White and the Indiana Fever returned home on a high after a successful four-game road trip. The Fever went 3-1, including two wins against the defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces, on the front and back ends of the trip.

Indiana came crashing back down to earth on Wednesday, though. In their first home game in nearly three weeks, the Fever suffered a tough loss to the Golden State Valkyries, 88-75.

Indiana saw its two-game winning streak come to an end. It fell to 14-10 on the season and is currently sixth in the standings.

Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White reacts to Valkyries loss

The Fever played four road games in the span of eight days. However, when asked if fatigue was a factor in Wendesday’s loss, White refused to make any excuses.

“Yeah, I mean, probably, but we don’t have time for [fatigue],” she said. “This has got to be no excuses. Standard over feelings. Everybody in this “league goes through this.

“This is not something that we’re going to be immune to and everybody else isn’t. I just think our mentality to start the ballgame needed to be better. And when you spend all of that energy trying to come back at multiple points in the game, it becomes a hard road at times.

“And so we can’t give into those excuses.”

The road ahead only gets tougher for the Fever. They play their next three games at home, but they are set for another back-to-back on Firday and Saturday. White and Co. will need to prepare for the Seattle Storm on Friday, followed by a matchup against the New York Liberty on Saturday.

As the Fever coach said, there’s no time to get tired at this point in the season.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark had no words after Indiana Fever announcement

Sophie Cunningham had a special guest for Indiana Fever game

Fever guard Lexie Hull announces personal news amid WNBA season

Legendary broadcaster Dick Vitale saddened by unfortunate Caitlin Clark situation

The post Stephanie White refuses to make excuses after Fever’s tough loss appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever suffered a tough loss on Wednesday night. They returned home to Gainbridge Fieldhouse following a four-game road trip only to suffer defeat at the hands of the visiting Golden State Valkyries, 88-75.

Clark was still on a minutes limit in this one as she continues to work her way back from a back injury. She finished with 13 points on 4-of-14 shooting, three rebounds, six assists, a steal, one block and a three-pointer in 26 minutes on the court.

It was a concerted effort for Golden State, which had six players score in double figures. Gabby Williams led the way with a team-high 16 points.

Caitlin Clark unhappy with refs after Indiana Fever loss

Clark did not hold back in her postgame press conference. When asked about a specific incident in the second quarter when she got kneed to the quad by Valkyries center Kiah Stokes, she expressed her disappointment. Clark was incensed that the referees did not call a foul on the play.

“That hurt,” said the Fever superstar. “The ref can’t miss that. And then I have to play with a contusion in my leg the rest of the game. It’s ridiculous. Can’t miss calls like that.

“… She said I initiated the contact, which is fine. You can’t knee me in the leg, knock me over.”

I’m not saying she didn’t lol why do yall get so upset about this girl ? I didn’t say she didn’t “run into it” I just showed she did actually take a knee to the quad. Here’s a video since you lied about the picture lol pic.twitter.com/uSjefg36jx

— Lew Sid (@LewSidRaps) July 16, 2026

It remains to be seen if Clark’s criticism falls within the WNBA’s threshold in terms of calling out game officials. If it doesn’t, then the 24-year-old could face another fine from the league.

The Fever dropped to 14-10 after Wednesday’s loss, and are now sixth in the standings. They have a back-to-back set coming up on Friday and Saturday against the Seattle Seahawks and the New York Liberty, respectively.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark had no words after Indiana Fever announcement

Sophie Cunningham had a special guest for Indiana Fever game

Fever guard Lexie Hull announces personal news amid WNBA season

Legendary broadcaster Dick Vitale saddened by unfortunate Caitlin Clark situation

The post ‘It’s ridiculous’: Caitlin Clark blatantly calls out refs after Fever loss appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Lexie Hull and the Indiana Fever were back on the court on Wednesday night. They hosted the Golden State Valkyries at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in their first home game following an extended road trip.

The Fever went 3-1 on the road over the past week or so, including two wins against the defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces.

Hull had been on a bit of a stretch before going scoreless against the Aces on Sunday. In their previous three road games, the 6-foot-2 guard averaged 11.3 points on 51.7% shooting. Hull is no superstar, but she’s been an integral part of the squad over the past several years. It has been no different this season.

Lexie Hull draws attention with outfit for Fever-Valkyries game

Regardless of whether she plays well or not, the fact of the matter is that Hull does not miss with her pregame outfits. She stole the spotlight yet again on Wednesday night as she arrived at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for the usual tunnel walk.

The 26-year-old wore a black sleeveless halter-style crop top with a high mock neckline. She paired it with black high-waisted wide-leg trousers and black pointed-toe pumps. For a pop of color, Hull accessorized with a green top-handle top bag.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Indiana Fever (@indianafever)

As always, Hull’s ensemble was a big hit among the fans on social media.

“Everybody looks so gorg! But Lexi… jaw dropping!” a comment on Instagram read.

“Does Lexie have a beer belly ? Of course not but , she has a 6 pack ! ” another said.

“Looking beautiful as always Lexi. ” a user wrote.

“Okayyyy @lexiehulll ” a reaction read.

“@lexiehulll always looks gorgeous!” said another.

“Love the outfit Lexie! You all look great. Play hard tonight. You need this win! ” a fan posted.

Hull was quiet again on Wednesday night, finishing with just two points in 22 minutes. The Fever lost to the Valkyries, 88-75, and have now dropped to 14-10 on the season.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark had no words after Indiana Fever announcement

Sophie Cunningham had a special guest for Indiana Fever game

Fever guard Lexie Hull announces personal news amid WNBA season

Legendary broadcaster Dick Vitale saddened by unfortunate Caitlin Clark situation

The post ‘Jaw Dropping’: Fever’s Lexie Hull steals the spotlight with pregame outfit appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Colston Loveland had an incredible rookie year for the Chicago Bears last season. After a relatively slow start to the campaign, the 10th overall pick of the 2025 NFL Draft caught fire towards the latter part of the campaign. He did not look back from that point.

Loveland finished the season with 58 catches for 713 yards and six touchdowns. The former Michigan Wolverines star established himself as one of quarterback Caleb Williams’ favorite targets. Together, the pair led the Bears to an 11-6 record, en route to winning the NFC North title for the first time since 2018.

Now heading into Year 2, Loveland has already set his sights on the biggest prize of them all.

Chicago Bears: Colston Loveland will follow in Caleb Williams’ footsteps

Loveland recently appeared on the “Bussin’ with the Boys” podcast. He had a lot to say about Williams during the show as Loveland expressed his honest thoughts on his quarterback. According to the young TE, playing alongside Williams still blows him away.

“It’s crazy,” Loveland stated. “I mean, obviously I’ve seen it in college and seen him do it, but to be there firsthand and you’re running around knowing that at any time this thing can open up, it is crazy.”

Loveland was then presented with the prospect of winning the Super Bowl. Loveland promised to follow in Williams’ footsteps if the Bears achieve this ultimate goal.

“Win a Super Bowl, I’ll paint my nails,” he asserted.

Colston Loveland is all in on Caleb Williams… and it sounds like Will Compton is finally coming around pic.twitter.com/8OoRZTdnir

— Bussin’ With The Boys (@BussinWTB) July 15, 2026

Williams has been known for painting his nails since his college days. It was a form of self-expression for him, which has now become an avenue for sending messages across and raising awareness. Last season, he used his painted nails to call attention to suicide awareness.

While some fans do not appreciate Williams’ unusual style, Loveland has committed to painting his own nails if the Bears go all the way.

The journey starts on Sept. 13 for Chicago as they face the Carolina Panthers in Week 1.

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The post Colston Loveland has 1 Caleb Williams promise if Bears win Super Bowl appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Before joining the Indiana Fever in 2025 via a multi-team blockbuster trade, Sophie Cunningham spent the first six seasons of her career with the Phoenix Mercury.

When she joined the Mercury, the 6-foot-1 guard was already surrounded by two future Hall of Fame superstars, Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner. Cunningham opened up about this on a recent appearance on the “Sons & Daughters” podcast. She revealed that she believed that having been teammates with the likes of Taurasi and Griner prepared her for what life would be like playing alongside Caitlin Clark.

While there was some truth to this, Cunningham admitted that nothing compares to the unprecedented fame of the former Iowa Hawkeyes star.

Sophie Cunningham gets real on being teammates with Caitlin Clark on Indiana Fever

According to Cunningham, being teammates with Clark was “times a million” in terms of all the attention the Fever was getting. Cunningham shared that other players who join the Fever are overwhelmed by the scrutiny the Fever face daily because of the famed Caitlin Clark effect.

“You can’t prepare,” Cunningham said. There’s a lot of players, and it’s no one’s fault that they’ve had to get traded or they’ve had to go to new teams because they can’t handle all this pressure.

“Some girls from this year, they’re like, ‘Wow, you guys are 100% right that there are eyes on you with every little single thing that you do.’ And it’s the truth. And you know, it can be hard.”

Cunningham then opened up about how some might perceive this as a threat. For her part, she sees it as a great opportunity.

“But at the same time, what an opportunity to be yourself and to inspire people who are just like you,” she said. “And so you can look at it as a threat. You can look at it as an opportunity. And I definitely came in here looking for an opportunity, not only off the court, but also on the court.

“… And so I just came in with open arms of all this is an opportunity for me as an athlete and for me to build my brand.”

The world has opened up for Cunningham since she joined the Fever. She now hosts her own podcast, has transitioned into a part-time WNBA analyst for USA Network and is coming out with her own Adidas Player Exclusive (PE) shoe, among other things.

Clearly, Cunningham is taking advantage of the opportunities she’s getting alongside Clark.

Related reading:

Unexpected Indiana Fever decision backfires

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Sophie Cunningham’s UFC move draws honest admission from Dana White

Fever star Sophie Cunningham reacts to retirement news

The post Sophie Cunningham gets 100% honest on Caitlin Clark ‘threat’ appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox selected Roch Cholowsky, the highly touted shortstop from UCLA, with the first overall pick in the 2026 MLB amateur draft. It was a decision that, while not entirely surprising, was not exactly 100% predicted. In most MLB drafts, there is usually a consensus number one overall pick, or at least a really good idea of what the team drafting first will do.

For their part, the White Sox did not reveal anything until they sent Cholowsky’s name to the powers that be in Major League Baseball to claim him as their first overall pick.

But while they kept their process leading up to draft a secret, they invited ESPN insider Jesse Rogers into their war room on draft day, and he has provided never before seen insight as to what kind of discussions are had on draft day.

Jesse Rogers reveals how the Chicago White Sox came to the decision to select Roch Cholowsky

Fans from all over the world enjoy a variety of sports. In that vein, movies made about sports are very popular, including baseball flicks such as “Moneyball.”

But the thing about Hollywood is that so much of what goes into movies like that is dramatized for effect. Very rarely are fans treated to what really goes on in front offices and behind the scenes for their favorite teams.

But Rogers got to see exactly what went into Chicago selecting Cholowsky.  His account of the discussions that went into it is quite fascinating.

After much discussion, Chris Getz and his crew settled on Cholowsky as their pick. And they feel good about it.

“You make a decision and you go with it,” Getz said to Rogers. “You don’t look back. You just f—ing make it happen. And that’s what we do. That’s what we’ve done. And that’s the White Sox. That’s what we do.”

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox 1B Munetaka Murakami addresses future in Chicago
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For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Colston Loveland was a first-hand witness to the dynamic between Chicago Bears cornerstone quarterback Caleb Williams and head coach Ben Johnson.

Loveland joined the Bears as a rookie last season following a remarkable college career at Michigan. He arrived a few months after Chicago signed Johnson as its new head coach, replacing Matt Eberflus.

Johnson came in just as Williams was entering his second season. The former USC standout made waves during his rookie year in 2024, but few would dispute that Williams was far from his best.

It all changed for Williams in Year 2, and Johnson played a key role in his rise. In his second season, the quarterback completed 330 passes for 3,942 yards and 27 touchdowns. He led the Bears to the NFC North title behind an 11-6 record.

Chicago Bears: How Ben Johnson pushed Caleb Williams

It wasn’t always sunny in Chicago, though. The start of Johnson and Williams’ relationship was characterized by early criticism. While the coach constantly praised his quarterback, Johnson wasn’t shy about calling out Williams’ shortcomings either.

Loveland witnesses the tension firsthand.

“Yeah, tension. Good tension, though,” Loveland said on a recent appearance on the “Bussin’ With the Boys” podcast. “Really pushing him, putting a lot on his plate, seeing what he could handle. Long play calls, throwing everything at him and us as a team, seeing what we can handle.

“But seeing the transition from OTAs to struggling to get plays off. Everyone’s learning this new playbook, big playbook, and his playbook is so detailed too. Just seeing how the landmarks, the alignments, every little thing, what arm you put the ball in, everything is so detailed. He coaches it hard on everything, all the coaches do.”

Loveland knew that there was method to the madness. Johnson’s rigorous approach was not exclusive to Williams as it extended to every single person on the squad. The results proved that Johnson’s methods work, and Loveland is looking forward to what’s to come.

“But then seeing, all right, we’re going to throw all this at him during OTAs and camp, see what he can handle, see what we can handle,” continued the young TE. “And then, I mean, you’ve seen it throughout the year. It just finally clicked, and now going into year two, even more coming.”

Williams and Johnson reached new heights in their first year together. Now, even more is expected in the coming season.

Related reading:

One Chicago Bears position considered ‘among best in NFL’

NFL makes Caleb Williams announcement amid offseason

Bears TE Colston Loveland facing backlash over Packers comments

Chicago Bears issue statement on death of beloved NFL icon

The post Colston Loveland tells the truth on Caleb Williams-Ben Johnson ‘tension’ appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears are coming off of a successful 2025 NFL season, and are hoping that 2026 will be even better. A year ago, Chicago went 11-6, won the NFC North, and advanced to the divisional round of the NFL Playoffs. Obviously, they are hoping for their young roster to continue to improve and take even more steps towards Super Bowl contention.

Over the course of the off-season, Chicago made several important transactions to not only improve their roster, but to open up more opportunities for the younger players at different position groups. This was certainly the case when the Bears traded DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills. Now, the younger pass catchers on their roster will not have to compete with the long-time veteran for valuable targets.

Chicago Bears WR Luther Burden III named team’s breakout player for 2026 NFL season

In a recent article posted by The Athletic, Luther Burden III, one of the players that will benefit the most from Moore no longer being on the roster, was chosen as the team’s breakout player for the 2026 NFL season:

“’I’m buying Luther Burden stock right now.’ That was the heartfelt endorsement offered in May by the visionary of the Bears’ offense, Ben Johnson, who referred to the receiver’s spring growth as ‘electric.’ As a rookie, Burden came alive down the stretch, posting 40 catches, 547 yards and a touchdown, including playoffs, over his final 10 games.

“Now, he has increased confidence, heightened trust from his play caller (Johnson), growing chemistry with his quarterback (Caleb Williams) and continued praise from his teammates. Said tight end Colston Loveland, a fellow Year 2 breakout candidate: ‘He’s the truth, man. And nothing but the truth.'”

As a rookie last year, Burden played 15 games and had 47 receptions for 652 years and two touchdowns. With Moore no longer on the roster, and Rome Odunze dealing with injuries, Burden could very well the Bears’ WR1 by the time the season starts. If that is the case, his breakout year could be among one of the best for a wide receiver in the entire league.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• When Maxx Crosby could be made available to the Bears via trade
• NFL makes off-season Caleb Williams announcement
• Bears TE Colston Loveland facing backlash over Packers comments

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

The post Chicago Bears 2026 breakout candidate to watch identified by NFL analyst appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Caitlin Clark has been nursing an injured back over the past couple of weeks. She returned on Sunday to help the Indiana Fever secure a 109-75 statement win over the Las Vegas Aces. However, Clark’s back issue forced her to sit out three out of her team’s previous four games.

Carrying the load for the Fever over that stretch was four-time All-Star Kelsey Mitchell. The 5-foot-8 guard has been the central figure in head coach Stephanie White’s offense all season, and Clark’s absence required Mitchell to step up her game even more.

As always, the 30-year-old veteran answered the call. Last week, Mitchell led the Fever to a 2-1 record amid a four-game road trip. Clark missed two of those games, but Mitchell and Co. still won despite their cornerstone superstar’s absence.

Caitlin Clark reacts to Indiana Fever teammate Kelsey Mitchell’s latest honor

Mitchell’s strong play led to another WNBA honor for the former No. 2 overall pick. The league announced on Tuesday that the Fever guard has been named the Eastern Conference Player of the Week for July 2 to 12.

The Fever also announced the news via an Instagram post, which drew a subtle reaction from Clark. She shared the post on her Instagram stories without a caption. Clark had no words, instead letting the graphic — and Mitchell’s numbers — do the talking.

 

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A post shared by Indiana Fever (@indianafever)

In 23 games played this season, Mitchell is averaging a team- and career-high 22.7 points on 48.8% shooting, 1.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.0 steals in 32.5 minutes per contest. She’s also knocking down 2.7 triples per game on a 40.5% clip.

Both Mitchell and Clark will return to the court on Wednesday as the Fever host the Golden State Valkyries. They will look to improve on their 14-9 record, which currently has them fifth in the standings.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark sends strong message to Fever teammate Aliyah Boston

Lexie Hull stuns in sleeveless outfit for Fever-Aces game

Aubrey Plaza showed no mercy to Fever star Caitlin Clark

Sophie Cunningham sends strong message after Fever’s questionable decision

The post Caitlin Clark had no words after Indiana Fever announcement appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Maxx Crosby was happy to return to the Las Vegas Raiders after an embarrassing situation this spring when a failed physical caused the Baltimore Ravens to back out of a trade before the start of the league’s new year in March.

Crosby was frustrated with the Raiders deciding to end his season two games early due to an injury. He went on to have surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee and did not participate in OTAs or mandatory minicamp practices, targeting training camp for his return.

It remains to be seen if Crosby will choose to stay with the Raiders if they have a losing season or will jump for a chance to play for a contender near the trade deadline in the upcoming season. The Chicago Bears were reportedly one of the teams that checked in on Crosby’s trade price in the offseason.

On Wednesday, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk told “The Score” that he thinks Crosby could be traded if Las Vegas gets off to a slow start this fall.

“The one thing that I think we’re all continuing to lose sight of is, if the Raiders start off struggling like they have most of the years since the last time they went to the Super Bowl in 2002, I still think Max Crosby can get traded,” Florio said.

“Once he’s cleared to practice and play, and that concern that kept the Ravens from moving forward goes away, and once the Raiders stink, if they do, I think this Max Crosby thing is going to come back to the front burner, and he’s going to be a hot name as the trade deadline approaches… I think Max Crosby still has a very good chance of being traded, even though he’s now of a mindset that he’d like to stick around.”

More News: Chicago Bears: Joe Thuney losing key skill despite playing great

Would the Chicago Bears trade for Maxx Crosby

More News: Chicago Bears’ Darnell Wright criticized by NFL coach

The Bears could use a veteran defense end to improve their pass rush after not making a notable move to upgrade the defensive line this offseason. Crosby is a two-time All-Pro with 69.5 sacks in the league since he was taken in the fourth round of the 2019 draft by the Raiders.

In addition to being a strong pass-rusher, Crosby is a solid run defender.

Of course, Chicago will want to see how Crosby plays to start the season before trading for him. There is a concern about his knee long-term after the Ravens backed out of the trade.

The Bears can’t afford to take on Crosby’s contract, especially with some 2023 and 2024 first-round picks needing contract extensions soon, if the defensive end can’t be counted on to stay healthy and play at an elite level.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The tight end position on the Chicago Bears’ 2026 roster is packed with talent.

Colston Loveland, Cole Kmet and Sam Roush were the three standouts for the Bears last season, and each had strong contributions to the team

According to a recent article by Alyssa Barbieri of Bearswire, the Bears have a wealth of talented tight ends who form a group that is “among the best in (the) NFL.” She also believes that TE is “arguably the biggest strength on the roster right now.”

“If Chicago’s offense finds success once again in 2026, the tight ends will be key,” Barbieri added.

Loveland was the key tight end in the group, with 58 receptions for 713 yards and six touchdowns, while Kmet had 30 receptions for 347 yards and two touchdowns. It remains to be seen if Roush will translate his collegiate success to the pros.

Colston Loveland and the Chicago Bears look to be a solid contender in the 2026 season

After finishing with an 11-6 record and topping the NFC North Division last season, Chicago is expected to make a deep playoff run once again.

They defeated the Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card round. However, they succumbed to the Los Angeles Rams in the Divisional round. 

Loveland and Caleb Williams will still be responsible for the team’s success in the upcoming season. However, the front office added depth around their stars.

They added Coby Bryant, Devin Bush, Khalif Raymond, and Neville Gallimore to fill key roles across the roster at every position.

Coach Ben Johnson is likely to maximize the current roster’s potential in an effort to lead them to the Super Bowl. They were only two games short of making it to The Big Game.

Related reading:

Two Chicago Bears OLs ranked among Top 10 in the NFL

Chicago Bears star ranked sixth-best in his position across NFL

Bears QB Caleb Williams is trending after Jordan Love news

Bears’ Colston Loveland beats out Travis Kelce in ESPN TE rankings

The post One Chicago Bears position considered ‘among best in NFL’ appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs will resume their season this Friday, coming out of the All-Star break with the top spot in the NL Wild Card race and a good amount of momentum.

More News: Chicago Cubs: PCA talks up his plan to dethrone Ohtani as MVP

They will also be coming back with some glaring holes in their roster and some well-defined needs.

Chief among those needs is starting pitching. The team has lost Cade Horton for the season following Tommy John surgery earlier this year. They can also cross off ace Justin Steele, who suffered a setback in his own recovery from elbow surgery last year. Ben Brown, who was having a breakthrough year, has also been sidelined indefinitely with a recurring neck problem. Meanwhile, new Cub starter Edward Cabrera is currently on the IL with a hamstring injury as Jameson Taillon gets ready to join the team after his own stint on the IL.

Given all the injuries and misfortune, the Cubs front office needs to target starting pitching prior to the August 3 MLB trade deadline.

With a need for a front-of-rotation starter and a desire to target young pitchers with years of team control ahead, there has been a short list of “best fit” pitchers suggested for the team.

Cubs warned to stay away from this pitcher

More News: Chicago Cubs insider Tweet to coach stirs concerns and controversy

One of those on the short list is the Angels’ Jose Soriana, whose 3.49 ERA and two years of team control remaining after this season make him a tantalizing trade target.

Ryan O’Rourke of Cubbies Crib, however, is warning the Cubs that they may want to stay far away from the 27-year-old righty.

Per O’Rourke:

“…The warning signs have shone bright beneath his sparkling 3.49 ERA. After giving up just one run in his first 37 2/3 innings, the wheels have come off the bus. To illustrate the drop-off, starting from his match-up against the White Sox at the end of April, his first start giving up more than one run, he’s had the fifth-worst ERA among qualified pitchers at 5.15 with an also quite bad 4.89 FIP.

A constant problem in Soriano’s career has been his walk rate and overall command, and that remains true in 2026, as he’s issuing free passes to 11.4% of batters he’s faced. Only 43.6% of his pitches are ending up in the strike zone, putting him comfortably below league average when it comes to getting the ball over the plate. Home runs have also increasingly plagued him, as he’s coughed up 11 from that game with the White Sox on.”

More work-in-progress than impact arm?

O’Rourke does go on to point out that Soriano’s 53.1% groundball rate and his high-90s velocity might make him an intriguing pickup, even with his propensity for walking batters and giving up the long ball.

Soriano put up some dominant numbers in his first six starts of the season, but has hobbled his way through the last 14. This suggests that the rotation piece is still very much a work in progress. He’s not, however, a pitcher who will help carry this Cubs team to the playoffs and deep into the postseason.

Given his age and the years of team control—plus the demand for starting pitching at the deadline—the Angels will also likely be asking a hefty price for the four-year major leaguer.

Maybe Soriano would fly as an offseason acquisition, as someone the Cubs pitching brain trust can work with and help further develop. But he’s not the guy the team needs on August 3.

The post Chicago Cubs urged to avoid this temping trade target appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham had quite a busy weekend. On Saturday, she made her debut as a ring girl for the co-main event of UFC 329 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The following night, she was back to her day job, helping the Fever on the court.

If there was any doubt about Cunningham’s extracurricular activity getting in the way of her basketball, the 29-year-old put it all to rest with a big-time performance for Indiana. She went off for 20 points on six triples, helping the Fever secure a 109-75 blowout win against the Las Vegas Aces.

Cunningham caught fire in front of a packed crowd at Michelob ULTRA Arena. She turned in one of her best outings of the season in front of a very special guest.

UFC President Dana White came to support Sophie Cunningham

Sitting courtside for the Fever-Aces game on Sunday night was UFC President and CEO Dana White. The MMA icon even wore a shirt featuring Cunningham’s face to show his support.

After the game, the two were seen catching up and sharing a laugh.

UFC President Dana White wore a Sophie Cunningham shirt to tonight’s Fever vs Aces game

Cunningham was a celebrity ring girl for UFC 329 pic.twitter.com/yUOnzkSErw

— Jon Root (@JonnyRoot_) July 13, 2026

Cunningham and White have become pals of late. On Saturday after the fight, White revealed that Cunningham’s stint as a ring girl was not planned in advance. The 6-foot-1 guard just asked if she could do it minutes before the event, and White just gladly obliged.

Cunningham and the Fever are now back in Indianapolis following their eventful four-game road trip. They will return to action on Wednesday to host the Golden State Valkyries. Tipoff from Gainbridge Fieldhouse is at 8:00 p.m. ET.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark sends strong message to Fever teammate Aliyah Boston

Lexie Hull stuns in sleeveless outfit for Fever-Aces game

Aubrey Plaza showed no mercy to Fever star Caitlin Clark

Sophie Cunningham sends strong message after Fever’s questionable decision

The post Sophie Cunningham had a special guest for Indiana Fever game appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs will be returning from the All-Star break with the top National League Wild Card spot and a second place standing in the NL Central Division.

More News: Chicago Cubs insider Tweet to coach stirs concerns and controversy

It’s really been a remarkable season, all things considered. A massive and unprecedented wave of injury to key figures on the pitching staff could’ve easily knocked the wheels off the Cubs’ cart, but the team has, so far, persevered.

A big part of Chicago’s ability to ride out the wave of misfortune is their offense and stellar defense. Chief among the position player assets this year is center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, who has put together a wild run of dominance—specifically from the end of May to the break—that has him, literally, putting up stats that rival legends such as Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig.

PCA’s wild run

More News: Chicago Cubs: 3 (not so obvious) Cubs to watch after the All-Star break

Since May 30, PCA is hitting .385 with an unreal on base percentage of .474. Overall this season, he’s slashing .291/.386/.531 with an OPS of .917. He’s also notched 21 home runs, 53 RBIs, and 24 stolen bases.

Combine that with his elite defense in the outfield, and you have an asset with a 6.0 WAR, according to FanGraphs—tops among dedicated position players. This screams “MVP”—even in a baseball world that has Shohei Ohtani in it.

The move to overtake Ohtani?

On Tuesday in Philadelphia, prior to his second All-Star game appearance, the 24-year-old joked about what it might take to replace the Los Angeles Dodgers superstar as the MVP guy. Ohtani, who missed the All-Star game due to some lingering knee issues, has won MVP recognition three years in a row and four times over the course of his nine-year career. He’s on track to win yet another award this year.

“I was telling a few of the guys earlier, ‘Man, I would love to dethrone him,’ but I don’t know how you do it unless I go to a pitching lab in the offseason,” Crow-Armstrong told media. “I’ll go be a closer or something and see how that helps my odds.”

The 32-year-old Ohtani currently leads all of baseball with a 6.3 WAR, also according to FanGraphs, but he also pulls double duty as a designated hitter and starting pitcher, with his mound work noting for 3 points of his total WAR.

But does PCA stack up against the great Ohtani?

Offensively, yes. The two stars’ numbers are similar. Ohtani has a slash line of .293/.403/.549 and an OPS of .953 with 22 home runs and 58 RBIs. When one factors in Crow-Armstrong’s speed and base stealing prowess, the two are pretty much even when it comes to impact as a position player.

Ohtani’s pitching, though, is what sets him apart, as Crow-Armstrong, who went 1-for-1 in Tuesday’s game, joked about in his remarks.

But there’s a serious debate to be had on whether an elite-level defender playing every day brings as much value to a team’s competitive bottom line as an elite pitcher working every fifth game.

Realistically, though, it’s a long shot that anyone other than Ohtani will win the NL MVP award this season—and, arguably, for the next couple. But if anyone might be able to do it, it’s the still-learning and still-growing Crow-Armstrong, even if he doesn’t become the Cubs’ shutdown closer.

The post Chicago Cubs: PCA talks up his plan to dethrone Ohtani as MVP appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Blackhawks are still building their roster to hopefully accelerate the rebuild, centering it around Connor Bedard. For the Blackhawks, getting more veteran presence could be key especially with the youth on the roster.

That could also open up the door for a reunion with a Blackhawks’ legend.

Free agent Patrick Kane is still on the market, looking for a new team after spending the past few years with the Detroit Red Wings. For Kane, he’s still deciding on where his next home will be and another Blackhawks’ legend believes he’s down to two teams, both of which he has a connection to.

Chris Chelios says Patrick Kane is down to two teams

During an appearance on the “Mully and Haugh Show” on Chicago’s The Score radio station on Wednesday, Chelios told the hosts that Kane will choose between two teams: The Chicago Blackhawks and Buffalo Sabres.

“I am not gonna lie to you guys, it is down to Buffalo and Chicago. I know that. Obviously, because I’ve spoken to him,” Chelios said. “It’s a tough decision for him. It really is. Whether to go home, make it easy on his parents, family and his friends and finish like he did, kind of like Toews tried to do. Or he comes back. In my opinion, he’s a Blackhawk. The Blackhawks, you see how tough it is to make the playoffs, it’s hit or miss, there’s no guarantees. With the absence of Connor at the beginning of the season. How great would that be?”

Chris Chelios recently spoke to free agent Patrick Kane about his interest in returning to the Blackhawks:

"I am not gonna lie to you guys, it is down to Buffalo and Chicago. I know that." pic.twitter.com/FIirxkRntc

— 104.3 The Score (@thescorechicago) July 15, 2026

Chelios went on to say that he hopes Kane returns to Chicago. He also believes a decision will come pretty quick now. All of this is significant as Chelios is close to Kane and speaks to him a lot, so he has that inside information.

The 37-year-old Kane had a historic career in Chicago, spending the first 15 seasons of his career with the Blackhawks. He won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the Rookie of the Year in 2008 after being taken first overall in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. He’s also been a league MVP, finishing with 106 points in the 2016 season.

A reunion with Kane would be huge for the fans but also could help the Blackhawks as they will be without Bedard for at least the first month or so of the season.

The post Chris Chelios reveals Patrick Kane is down to Chicago or Buffalo appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Caleb Williams established himself as one of the best young stars in the NFL last season. He entered the campaign with many doubting whether he could lead the Chicago Bears to success. The quarterback more than silenced his critics by guiding the franchise to an NFC North title and reaching the Divisional Round.

He produced impressive numbers, completing 330-of-568 passes for 27 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Williams also shone by showcasing his on-field demeanor, remaining calm under pressure. His strong play attracted a lot of attention to the Bears, and they will play seven primetime games in 2026.

Williams’ popularity rose not just in Chicago but across the nation. He aims to surpass his numbers from last season and help lead the Bears to a deeper playoff run despite facing the toughest schedule.

NFL announces rise in Caleb Williams’ jersey sales

The Official NFL Shop announced that the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner’s jersey is the highest-selling in the league for the month of June. His navy game jersey and white classic jerseys beat other stars to become the No. 1 best-sellers.

Next on the list are Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza and new Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett. New England Patriots passer Drake Maye and Buffalo Bills signal-caller Josh Allen round out the top five.

 

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Williams produced some highlight-reel-worthy plays in 2025 and orchestrated multiple comeback wins for Chicago. EA Sports named him the cover athlete for Madden 27, featuring his Superman pass in the graphics.

Chicago filled some positional needs this offseason. It added Coby Bryant and drafted Dillon Thieneman at No. 25 to bolster the safety position. The team acquired center Garrett Bradbury from New England to give Williams added protection, while signing Devin Bush to bolster the defensive line.

Next season will be a big test for Williams and Co. Another strong campaign will cement their place as a team of the future. They could also surprise many if they can show that they are serious Super Bowl contenders as early as 2026.

Related reading:

Two Chicago Bears OLs ranked among Top 10 in the NFL

Chicago Bears star ranked sixth-best in his position across NFL

Bears QB Caleb Williams is trending after Jordan Love news

Bears’ Colston Loveland beats out Travis Kelce in ESPN TE rankings

The post NFL makes Caleb Williams announcement amid offseason appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Lexie Hull is now in her fifth season in the WNBA, all of which have been played with the Indiana Fever.

The 26-year-old first entered the league in 2022 as the sixth overall pick in the draft. The Fever used their first-round pick on the 6-foot-2 guard after a successful college stint with the Stanford Cardinal.

Hull has started 20 out of Indiana’s 23 games this season. She is currently averaging 6.1 points and 3.5 rebounds in 20.1 minutes per contest.

What Hull brings to the table for her team goes far beyond the box score. Apart from being a veteran leader on the squad, Hull is also considered one of, if not the best defender on the Fever.

Indiana Fever guard Lexie Hull shares exciting news

Hull has gained considerable fame during her time with the Fever. Much like most players on the roster, the Spokane, Washington, native has also benefited from the Caitlin Clark effect.

On Monday, Hull took to social media to share some personal news. The Indianapolis Indians, a professional Triple-A Minor League baseball team, will honor her during one of their games next month.

“Hi, it’s Lexie Hull,” she said in her announcement video posted by the Indians on Instagram. “Come on out to Lexie Hole Night at Victory Field on August 27th. I’ll be signing autographs, throwing out the first pitch, and there will be plenty of other fun surprises. So I hope to see you there.”

 

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The Indians will host the Columbus Clippers on Lexie Hull night, with the first pitch scheduled for 6:35 p.m. ET.

As for her basketball, Hull will be back on the court with the Fever on Wednesday for a home matchup against the Golden State Valkyries. Indiana is coming off a massive win over the Las Vegas Aces on Sunday, and they will be looking to make it back-to-back victories come Wednesday.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark sends strong message to Fever teammate Aliyah Boston

Lexie Hull stuns in sleeveless outfit for Fever-Aces game

Aubrey Plaza showed no mercy to Fever star Caitlin Clark

Sophie Cunningham sends strong message after Fever’s questionable decision

The post Fever guard Lexie Hull announces personal news amid WNBA season appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The NBA Summer League is just about a week old and already Chicago Bulls rookie Caleb Wilson is making a big first impression. Not only is Wilson earning the praise of local media but the national media as well.

Wilson dropped 35 points in his debut on Friday and then followed it up with a 19-point performance on Monday and then another 19-point performance on Tuesday night. He helped the Bulls earn their first win of Summer League against the Washington Wizards, in a game many thought he wouldn’t miss.

With Darryn Peterson missing games for the Utah Jazz and No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa missing games for Washington, it’s Wilson and fellow ACC alum Cameron Boozer still playing. And that’s just how Wilson wants it.

Caleb Wilson sending a message in NBA Summer League

As mentioned above, both Dybantsa and Peterson played in just two games before they were shut down. But that’s not the case for Wilson who told his head coach Tiago Splitter that he wanted to play on Tuesday night. After the win, Wilson stated that he expected Peterson to play on Monday as well. He delivered a quote that should have Bulls fans fired up.

“I feel like I’m different than all of them,” Wilson said. “Not to say they don’t, but I enjoy basketball. I love this shit. I’m going to play as much as I can. As much as my team will let me. I’m not the type to go away from a game because I don’t feel like I don’t feel good. Because I know in the NBA, I’m not going to feel good some games. If I don’t have an injury or something actually wrong with me, I’m going to play.”

He also stated that he felt weird during Monday’s game because he expected Peterson to play.

“I’m not disappointed. I felt like yesterday was kind of weird for me yesterday, honestly, because I expected to play against Darryn [Peterson]. I expected to play against a lot of players they had who sat out. When I came into the game, I didn’t have the right mindset. I’m a real competitor, I want to compete against the best players. I feel like that led to me not having my best game.”

Asked why he played today when other high draftees have sat, Wilson says “I feel like I’m different than all of them. Not to say they don’t, but I enjoy basketball. I love this shit. I’m going to play as much as I can.

Is he disappointed that Peterson/Dybantsa didn’t play?

“I… pic.twitter.com/DXjBmrtLR8

— Joel Lorenzi (@JoelXLorenzi) July 15, 2026

Wilson once again shows his awesome mentality that many are raving about. He’s a competitor. He wants to play against the best and he’s disappointed he didn’t get to.

The post Caleb Wilson sends message to rookies at NBA Summer League appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Colston Loveland has added fuel to the fire surrounding the age-old rivalry between the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers. The 22-year-old tight end is entering just his second season with the Bears, but there is no denying that the bitter rivalry already runs deep in his system.

Loveland recently addressed the Bears-Packers rivalry on an appearance on the “Bussin’ With the Boys” podcast. He compared it to the intense rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State, which he experienced during his time with the Wolverines.

“As far as like in the building, (there are signs that read) ‘What are you doing to beat Ohio State every day?’ That was where it was in Michigan,” he said. “Every TV, everything.

“That’s how it is. At the Bears, it’s everyone’s only talking about the Packers. Owners … It’s just, you can’t go a day without talking about them, talk about beating them, talk about the bad things. So it’s very comparable.”

Colston Loveland traded Michigan vs. Ohio State for Bears vs. Packers pic.twitter.com/Sg6AyL8hmP

— Bussin’ With The Boys (@BussinWTB) July 14, 2026

Fans react to Colston Loveland’s comments on Bears-Packers rivalry

Loveland’s comments caused quite a stir on social media. While some fans supported the Bears star, others took the opportunity to roast his team and its fans.

“Is this not sad bro rent free man. A decade of straight belt done some damage on them boys,” a reaction on X read.

“It was all good when many GB starters were out for the year. They return this year though and about to put belt to associate little brother,” another said.

Related reading:

Two Chicago Bears OLs ranked among Top 10 in the NFL

Chicago Bears star ranked sixth-best in his position across NFL

Bears QB Caleb Williams is trending after Jordan Love news

Bears’ Colston Loveland beats out Travis Kelce in ESPN TE rankings

The post Bears TE Colston Loveland facing backlash over Packers comments appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The NFL lost a leading figure in the sport on Tuesday, and the Chicago Bears have joined the community in mourning.

The family of Janice McNair announced on Tuesday that the Houston Texans co-founder and senior chair had passed away at the age of 89.

“Mom was exceptional. She exuded kindness, radiated joy, had an endless amount of hope and love, and lived an incredible life centered around faith, family, philanthropy and football,” Texans chair and CEO Cal McNair said. “It’s impossible to describe the profound gratitude that my sisters, Ruth and Melissa, and I feel for having her as our mom. Outside of our family, nothing mattered more to her than her beloved Texans.”

Janice co-founded the Texans in 1999 with her late husband, Bob McNair. She became the principal owner of the team in 2018 when her husband died. Janice, in turn, transferred the ownership to her son, Cal, in 2024.

Last year, Janice was inducted into the Texans Ring of Honor to celebrate her legacy in the organization and the city of Houston.

Chicago Bears mourn the death of Houston Texans co-founder Janice McNair

The Bears took to social media to issue an official statement on McNair’s passing.

“The Chicago Bears are deeply saddened by the passing of Mrs. Janice S. McNair,” the statement read. “Through her foundational support in the creation and leadership of the Houston Texans, and her trailblazing work in her community, Mrs. McNair created a legacy comprised of grace, kindness and love that permeated throughout the National Football League. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire McNair family, the Houston Texans and all who mourn the loss of Mrs. McNair.”

 

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The Texans have never won a Super Bowl since the McNairs established the team in 2002. However, they have been to the playoffs nine times. This includes three consecutive trips to the Divisional Round over the past three seasons.

Last year, Houston defeated Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Wild Card Round. However, they fell to the New England Patriots in the Divisional Round, 28-16.

Related reading:

Two Chicago Bears OLs ranked among Top 10 in the NFL

Chicago Bears star ranked sixth-best in his position across NFL

Bears QB Caleb Williams is trending after Jordan Love news

Bears’ Colston Loveland beats out Travis Kelce in ESPN TE rankings

The post Chicago Bears issue statement on death of beloved NFL icon appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Stephanie White and the Indiana Fever are coming off a big win on Sunday. They took down the defending champs, the Las Vegas Aces, on the road with an impressive 109-75 blowout win at Michelob ULTRA Arena.

Kelsey Mitchell led the way again for the Fever, going off for a game-high 27 points on 8-of-16 shooting. Caitlin Clark, who missed three out of Indiana’s last four games due to a back injury, returned for 12 points, seven rebounds and six assists.

Aliyah Boston chipped in with a 19-point, 11-rebound double-double. Sophie Cunningham caught fire from beyond the arc, knocking down six triples for 20 points.

The Fever improved to 14-9 after their statement win over A’ja Wilson and Co.

Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White shares update on Myisha Hines-Allen

Veteran forward Myisha Hines-Allen had played in all 22 Fever games heading into Sunday’s matchup. However, the 31-year-old did not see any action against the Aces.

White was asked about Hines-Allen’s absence during the postgame press conference. The Fever coach announced an unfortunate update on the 6-foot-2 forward.

“No,” White responded when asked if Hines-Allen was nursing an injury. “Myisha had a family thing that she was dealing with. And we just kind of let her have today to herself.”

White did not provide any details on Hines-Allen’s situation. However, the veteran posted on Saturday that she attended her grandmother’s funeral. This unfortunate development forced Hines-Allen to miss Sunday’s marquee matchup.

Hines-Allen joined the Fever in the offseason via free agency. She’s no superstar, but the former All-WNBA forward is a key piece of Coach White’s rotation. Hines-Allen is currently averaging 4.2 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 15.4 minutes per contest.

The silver lining here is that she appears to be on track to return for Indiana’s next game. The Fever have already submitted their injury report for Wednesday’s matchup, and Hines-Allen was not listed.

Related reading:

Caitlin Clark sends strong message to Fever teammate Aliyah Boston

Lexie Hull stuns in sleeveless outfit for Fever-Aces game

Aubrey Plaza showed no mercy to Fever star Caitlin Clark

Sophie Cunningham sends strong message after Fever’s questionable decision

The post Stephanie White announces unfortunate news after Fever game appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Dick Vitale is a big fan of Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark. This is exactly why the legendary broadcaster has once again called out the WNBA over what he believes is an unfortunate situation for the 24-year-old guard.

Vitale has been a strong presence in basketball over the past five decades. He started off as a college and pro coach in the 1970s before transitioning into broadcasting in the 1980s. The 87-year-old has since established himself as a trusted voice and an iconic figure in the sport.

Vitale has seen his fair share of elite basketball talent through the years. He counts Clark among them, and he’s sad about how the league is treating the face of the WNBA.

Dick Vitale calls out WNBA over Caitlin Clark treatment

Vitale took to social media on Monday to blatantly call out the WNBA. While he did not name any names, the ESPN sportscaster made his feelings abundantly clear.

“It is really sad the way @CaitlinClark22 is treated by many in the @WNBA she has been the leader for the league in many ways – PR – tv interest etc come on those that are critical – she deserves to be treated like ROYALTY!” he posted on X.

It is really sad the way @CaitlinClark22 is treated by many in the @WNBA she has been the leader for the league in many ways – PR – tv interest etc come on those that are critical – she deserves to be treated like ROYALTY! @cbrennansports @ESPNPR @KevinNegandhi @raycoletv

— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) July 13, 2026

This is not the first time Vitale has spoken out on Clark’s situation. He had a similar stance when he addressed the Fever star’s recent altercation with Phoenix Mercury star Alyssa Thomas. The six-time All-Star was issued a one-game suspension for driving her fist into Clark’s throat during a game.

Vitale cried foul, saying that it makes absolutely no sense that Clark is “targeted in such a negative manner by many of her peers.”

Vitale is not the type to keep his feelings to himself, and he is standing up and using his voice to sternly remind the WNBA that they should be taking care of their golden goose — before it’s too late.

Related reading:

Unexpected Indiana Fever decision backfires

Caitlin Clark speaks out on Stephanie White’s decision

Sophie Cunningham’s UFC move draws honest admission from Dana White

Fever star Sophie Cunningham reacts to retirement news

The post Legendary broadcaster Dick Vitale saddened by unfortunate Caitlin Clark situation appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Sophie Cunningham’s latest viral moment came during a highly contentious matchup between the Indiana Fever and the Phoenix Mercury on June 22. This is after she got into it with former teammate DeWanna Bonner during a heated moment in the game.

It was Caitlin Clark who first received a technical foul after an in-game scuffle with Bonner. Cunningham got involved when she questioned the refs about why Bonner didn’t get a tech. This did not sit well with the Mercury star. Bonner had some choice words for Cunningham, which she responded to by pointing at her ex-Fever teammate without saying anything.

It was at that moment that a new meme was born.

Fever star Sophie Cunningham opens up about DeWanna Bonner incident

Cunningham reflected on her altercation with Bonner in a recent appearance on the “Sons & Daughters” podcast. The 6-foot-1 guard admitted that it was “dumb” but also pointed to the history between the players and the teams.

“Caitlin got a technical, and I wasn’t even speaking to Miss Priss over there,” Cunningham said, referring to Bonner. “It made her mad, and she was like, ‘Don’t you point at me.’ I did not say a word to her. I just pointed. Good thing I got my nails done the day before, so I felt good about myself.

“That meme is literally everywhere. I thought that it would be my mouth that got me in trouble. It was simply just my sass that got me in trouble that time.”

When asked about her emotions in such situations, Cunningham revealed that she doesn’t really get angry.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sons and Daughters Pod (@sonsanddaughterspod)

It is important to note that Cunningham is a black belt in Taekwondo, an honor she incredibly earned at the age of 6. Don’t let the fun-loving facade fool you. As she warned, Cunningham can definitely defend herself when it comes to it. This is exactly why opponents should take caution in challenging the Fever star.

Related reading:

Unexpected Indiana Fever decision backfires

Caitlin Clark speaks out on Stephanie White’s decision

Sophie Cunningham’s UFC move draws honest admission from Dana White

Fever star Sophie Cunningham reacts to retirement news

The post ‘I can defend myself’: Sophie Cunningham’s serious warning after Fever incident appeared first on ChiCitySports.

A Chicago Sun-Times report by Jeff Agrest says that Marquee and The Score insider Bruce Levine has apologized to Chicago Cubs president Jed Hoyer and general manager Carter Hawkins after an odd incident on Twitter (X) Monday night. The incident involved Levine accidentally posting publicly on Twitter (X) what was supposed to be a private message to a Cubs coach. Levine’s message involved referring to Hoyer and Hawkins as “Twinkle Dee” and “Twinkle Dum” (meaning “Tweedle Dee” and “Tweedle Dum”).

The post was up for a while before the mistake was realized, and the post was taken down.

Per the Agrest report, Hoyer and Hawkins accepted the apology and are moving on. While nothing seems to be coming of this, fans still wonder what the future will be like regarding the team and the executive’s relationship with Levine.

Chicago Cubs brass is “moving on”

Levine apologized quickly to them, seeing as the report came out less than 24 hours after the post appeared on Twitter (X). He’s one of the primary Cubs beats and is front and center during most media sessions with the team. This had to be dealt with quickly.

It has to be hard for Hoyer and Hawkins to think about one of the veteran reporters who has done his job diligently for a long time, saying those kinds of things about them to Cubs personnel. What other conversations have been had between him and members of the organization about them? In the end, it will never be known to the public.

Fans might be frustrated at times with Hoyer and Hawkins on certain things. One might not be sympathetic towards them, but regardless, it’s still crazy to think about this whole thing. All members involved are established professionals, and they seem to be handling it as well as they should be.

When it’s all said and done, this could be a story that just blows away quickly. At least that is the hope.

The post Chicago Cubs insider apologizes to executives, per report appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox will soon have to worry about the contract for first baseman Munetaka Murakami.

The rookie has taken the MLB by storm, earning an All-Star appearance this season with a .232 batting average, 20 home runs, and 42 RBIs despite only playing in 60 games due to a hamstring issue that caused him to miss 35 games.

Murakami has been key reason why the White Sox are tied with the Cleveland Guardians for first place in the American League Central at the All-Star break with a 50-45 record, a dramatic turnaround after two disappointing campaigns in 2024 and 2025.

Murakami, a four-time All-Star in Nippon Professional Baseball, signed a two-year contract with the White Sox worth $34 million in December. He’s set to become a free agent after the 2027 season, and there is some concern in the South Side that a team like the Los Angeles Dodgers would love to pounce on the 26-year-old budding star.

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Munetaka Murakami wants to stay with Chicago White Sox

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Per James Fegan of SoxMachine, Murakami said Tuesday that he wants to stay with Chicago past 2027, but he’s not worried about signing a contract extension in the immediate future.

“All-Star first baseman Munetaka Murakami said he’s not thinking or talking specifics about contract extensions right now, but affirmed that he would like to stay with the White Sox long-term,” Fegan posted on X.

That’s good news for the White Sox. Chicago should try to lock down Murakami as soon as possible rather than delay it towards the end of the 2027 season. Frankly, it’s possible that he could put up even better numbers as he gains more experience in the MLB.

Murakami has been impressed with the culture the White Sox have in the clubhouse this season and believes the team can make a push to make the World Series this season.

“We’re not afraid of anything right now,” Murakami said, via Ryan McGuffey of The REKAP. “We want to win, and we have that winning culture in our blood, so we’re going to look forward to going to the World Series, and that’s where we’re aiming right now. Nothing is surprising us at the moment.”

A hefty contract extension for Murakami this offseason shouldn’t surprise the White Sox.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears are home to the best offensive lineman in football. Sports Illustrated released its top-10 NFL offensive lineman rankings heading into the 2026 season. Two Bears cracked the list. 

Joe Thuney claimed the top spot, while Darnell Wright checked in at No. 10. Chicago is one of two teams with multiple players in the top 10. They join the Denver Broncos duo of Garett Bolles and Quinn Meinerz. 

Meanwhile, the Bears’ offensive line helped carry the franchise back to the playoffs for the first time in five years. 

Thuney earned first-team All-Pro honors for the third straight year and took home the inaugural Protector of the Year award. Wright earned second-team All-Pro honors in just his third NFL season. 

Joe Thuney and Darnell Wright Primed to Anchor Bears’ Offensive Line in 2026

Thuney sits alone at the top of the league. He made his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl in 2025.

The 33-year-old finished second in pass-block win rate and third in run-block win rate league-wide. With him leading the way, the Bears ranked third in rushing yards and fourth in EPA per rush. 

His résumé speaks for itself. Thuney won four Super Bowls blocking for Tom Brady in New England and Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City.

Wright is right behind him and still ascending. The 2023 first-round pick posted an 85.6 run-block grade, sixth among 89 qualifying tackles per PFF. The Bears averaged 144.5 rushing yards per game, third-most in the NFL. Wright also helped limit Caleb Williams to just 24 sacks, third-fewest among quarterbacks who started all 17 games.

Together, Thuney and Wright give Chicago one of the most formidable offensive lines in football. 

Williams enters Year 3 with two of the best blockers in the game protecting him. The Bears’ ceiling in 2026 runs directly through the trenches.

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Bears’ Colston Loveland beats out Travis Kelce in ESPN TE rankings

Jaylon Johnson injury update draws strong reactions from Bears fans

The post Two Chicago Bears OLs ranked among Top 10 in the NFL appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bulls have played two Summer League games so far in Las Vegas, falling to 0-2 after Monday’s loss to Utah. Despite the losses, there has been a bright spot for the team. That’s been rookie Caleb Wilson.

The No. 4 overall pick has had a fantastic Summer League so far, scoring 35 points in his debut and following it up with a 19-point, six-block performance against the Jazz. Wilson has showcased his talent so far, having Bulls fan’s feeling comfortable with their selection at No. 4.

Yes, it’s still very early on in his career but the returns early have been great. And now, Wilson and the Bulls are earning some praise for how he has played.

ESPN writer says Caleb Wilson puts Chicago Bulls in ‘right direction’

The last 10 years haven’t been great for the Bulls’ franchise. They haven’t won a playoff series since the 2014-15 season and have really struggled to get back, becoming a staple in the play-in round. Going into this rebuild, the Bulls needed a direction. Jamal Collier of ESPN believes Wilson puts them in the right direction:

It had been five months since Wilson last played in a basketball game, after his college season ended with a broken wrist in February.

His first professional game was well worth the wait.

With 35 points in his summer league debut, Wilson showcased all of the skills that made him a top prospect with eye-popping athleticism at the rim, which included three blocks, impressive isolation scoring, and contributions up and down the floor with six rebounds and two steals.

Wilson also shot 12-of-21 from the floor and 7-of-11 from 3, taking the record for most points from a rookie in a Las Vegas summer league debut. Wilson also showed off an improved jump shot, with seven 3-pointers, which matched his made 3s from his entire college career.

The Bulls have long been looking for some sign of hope or direction for a rudderless franchise, and with one game Wilson affirmed that that direction has arrived.

If the Bulls did indeed hit on the Wilson pick, it would be a GREAT start to this rebuild. They will have a good core with Wilson and Matas Buzelis, potentially Josh Giddey as well depending on what they want to do there.

It’s starting to feel like the Bulls are on the right track for the first time in a while.

The post Caleb Wilson puts Chicago Bulls in the right direction per NBA writer appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs need to be aggressive buyers at this year’s August 3 MLB trade deadline. There’s just no other realistic way the team does anything in the postseason without filling the massive holes they have in an injury-ravaged starting rotation and bullpen.

More News: Chicago Cubs: 3 (not so obvious) Cubs to watch after the All-Star break

They also needed to be aggressive buyers at last season’s trade deadline.

Instead of the frontline starter they needed, though, they would end up with Michael Soroka (who got injured in his first outing with the Cubs), Andrew Kittredge, Taylor Rogers, and Willi Castro.

And, subsequently, they would be eliminated in the second round of the playoffs, in great part due to their dearth of high-leverage starting pitching.

This year, the fear is that the Cubs front office will again fiddle around the edges of the strike zone rather than throw a heater right down the middle by going after fringe arms over more costly impact pitchers at the deadline.

MLB insider and Cubs beat writer Bruce Levine, apparently, shares those concerns.

Insider Tweet stirs controversy

More News: Chicago Cubs: Huge gamble explored in proposed Cubs-Mariners trade

Monday night, the veteran scribe apparently sent out a Tweet that was intended to be a private message to an unnamed Cubs coach, clearly referring to Cubs president Jed Hoyer and general manager Carter Hawkins as “twinkle dee” and “twinkle dum:”

“You and the other coaches have been the stars of the team being 12 games over 500. Let’s hope twinkle dee and twinkle dum don’t sell you guys out like the 2025. Enjoy the family time pal.”

Levine later deleted the post, but as we all know, someone is always saving receipts on social media.

One question left behind from this mishap centers around who Levine was talking to. Some have theorized that it was Craig Counsell, himself. Nobody outside of Levine and his contact will ever know for certain.

Whatever the case, Levine seemed to be supremely confident in dissing Hoyer and Hawkins to this person, almost as if the derision was a regular part of their dialogue. That could make for issues inside the Cubs bubble.

The road to disappointment?

The biggest question is whether Levine, who has access to info not known to the general public, actually has reason to believe that the Cubs front office will again disappoint at the trade deadline.

Last season, the post-deadline criticism was brutal. This season, in the face of such dire pitching need, it would probably be even more savage.

Hawkins’ post-deadline comments last year on having the discipline to refrain from making a major trade and his responsibility to the 2032 Cubs went over like a lead balloon with angry Cubs fans who were sensing something special in that 2025 squad.

The media was also absolutely brutal to the front office.

“I thought today, for the Chicago Cubs, was a disaster…an absolute disaster,” analyst David Kaplan commented on his Rekap podcast immediately after the deadline came and went last year. “I cannot be more disappointed that a team that has the second best record in the National League, a team that is one game out of the division lead…did not look and go ‘Wow, we get in, anything can happen. Let’s get this group a real chance in October.”

“To not get a frontline starter here and, to be honest, to not even get a legitimate back-end reliever,” Sam Olbur of the Locked on Cubs podcast exclaimed at the time. “I mean, this is one word and one word only—unserious.”

Fans are hoping that Levine’s Tweet wasn’t a slip that history may be repeating itself.

The post Chicago Cubs insider Tweet to coach stirs concerns and controversy appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Caitlin Clark has been in and out of the lineup for the Indiana Fever of late. The three-time All-Star has been nursing a lingering back injury that forced her to miss three out of her team’s last five games.

Aliyah Boston has carried a heavier load with Clark sidelined. The 6-foot-5 forward-center has been a key cog for Indiana, averaging 18.8 points and 9.3 rebounds over her last four games. Boston sat out a game on Jul 8 — the front end of a back-to-back set — due to a lower right leg injury. However, that did little to stop her momentum.

Clark was back on the floor for the Fever on Sunday against the Las Vegas Aces. She turned in a strong all-around performance with 12 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Boston was also on the floor, finishing with a 19-point and 11-rebound double-double. Both stars backed up Kelsey Mitchell’s 27-point outburst.

With the Fever at full strength, they cruised to a 109-75 blowout win over the defending champions.

Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston looking to keep Indiana Fever run going

Boston took to social media on Monday to share some of her latest in-game photos. These were from their recent four-game West Coast road trip, where they went 3-1.

“west coast dubbsssss” Boston captioned her post.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Aliyah A. Boston (@aliyah.boston)

Clark was one of the first to comment on the post. She had a strong message for her star teammate.

“yeahhhh AB let’s keep rollin ” the 6-foot guard wrote.

The Fever improved to 14-9 after their statement win over A’ja Wilson and the Aces. They are now heading into a four-game road stand with an opportunity to stack up the wins at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

First up for Clark and Co. is a matchup against the 17-7 Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday. They play another back-to-back set on Friday and Saturday against the Seattle Storm and the New York Liberty, respectively. They close out the four-game stretch on July 22 against the Connecticut Sun.

As of this writing, the Storm and the Sun have the two worst records in the WNBA.

Related reading:

Unexpected Indiana Fever decision backfires

Caitlin Clark speaks out on Stephanie White’s decision

Sophie Cunningham’s UFC move draws honest admission from Dana White

Fever star Sophie Cunningham reacts to retirement news

The post Caitlin Clark sends strong message to Fever teammate Aliyah Boston appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs made it to the All-Star break without the wheels falling off their banged-up, wobbly wagon. They’re holding on to the top NL Wild Card spot and a second place standing behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central Division.

More News: Chicago Cubs: Huge gamble explored in proposed Cubs-Mariners trade

And they did this under extreme stress and strain after suffering through an unprecedented wave of injuries. In total, thirteen pitchers have fallen to injury since spring training—including four starting pitchers projected to be on the major league roster, their closer, and a handful of high-profile relievers.

Now, however, comes the really tough part of the season.

As the race to the postseason heats up, everything gets tighter for the top-tier teams and, under the pressure, a team’s weaknesses become amplified. The Cubs have several holes to patch up and not much time in which to do it. They will also need to lean on several key players to help them over the hump. The stars, like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Nico Hoerner, will garner the most attention, of course. But some Cubs, just below that level, will also need to play major roles.

Here are three not-so-obvious players Cubs fans should watch for their post-All-Star break contributions.

Jameson Taillon

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Even when not pitching superbly, the 34-year-old veteran has been a valuable asset during his time in Chicago. He’s consistently delivered innings and has kept the team close in games even when he doesn’t have his best stuff.

With the Cubs starting rotation battered and strained to the point of breaking, Taillon’s steady presence has never been needed more.

He’s due back from the IL after the All-Star break and Chicago desperately needs him to bring some stability to the rotation amid the injury-fueled disorder. He’ll also have to improve on his 5.19 ERA, but at this point, the Cubs may be fine settling for just six non-catastrophic innings every fifth game.

Jacob Webb

The Cubs didn’t acquire the veteran free agent righty this past offseason as a high-leverage shutdown closer. They envisioned more of a solid middle-relief arm who was almost dull in his consistency and dependability.

Over his previous six years in the majors—spent with the Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Angels, Baltimore Orioles, and Texas Rangers—that’s exactly who he was. He didn’t blow anyone away with his power, but he regularly delivered an ERA in the 3s over 53 to 66 innings.

This season, though, necessity has forced Webb into a de facto closer role, already logging 41.1 innings and posting a career-high 5 saves.

With the wave of injuries washing over the staff, Webb has become the most reliable veteran presence in the bullpen—and he’ll need to keep that up as Daniel Palencia and Hoby Milner, among others, get their feet back under them.

Matt Shaw

The 24-year-old Shaw could play an important role on a postseason-bound Cubs team as a key bench player. His ability to play all around the field, pinch hit, and provide speed off the bench is something the 2025 Cubs lacked as they moved into the playoffs.

But the 2023 first round draft pick’s biggest contribution to an ambitious Cubs team may be as trade bait.

Already a young, major league-ready player, Shaw could immediately be plugged into the starting lineup of any rebuilding (or semi-rebuilding) team at third base, second base, or in a corner outfield position. He’ll likely be Chicago’s most coveted asset come trade deadline—and the one demanding the highest return. If the Cubs land a front-of-rotation pitcher, Shaw would likely be part of that deal.

The post Chicago Cubs: 3 (not so obvious) Cubs to watch after the All-Star break appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman has set the tone this offseason after being left out of the College Football Playoff in December: “Leave no doubt.”

Freeman has elevated the program to its greatest heights since Lou Holtz roamed the sidelines. He took over the job at Notre Dame when the school was in turmoil after Brian Kelly chose to leave the Fighting Irish to chase a national championship at LSU.

To Kelly’s credit, he built Notre Dame into a fringe CFP contender when the format was at 12 teams, though the Irish suffered blowouts to Clemson and Alabama in the playoff. Notre Dame was also pummeled by the Crimson Tide against Kelly’s Irish in the 2012 national championship.

LSU fired Kelly during the regular season after he went 34-14 in his four years with the program, never making the Tigers a serious CFP contender. He’s without a coaching job for this season, and he told “The Independent” podcast that he plans to visit Freeman and Notre Dame this season to offer his support.

More News: Notre Dame sent serious warning for season finale

Brian Kelly plans to visit Notre Dame

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“Obviously it’s important for me to let them know that I’m supporting and I want to support the program and I want that out there and I want to be visible for a day,” Kelly said, via The Athletic. “I’m not in there to look at what they’re running offensively or defensively, but I just want to show that I have 100 percent faith and confidence in what they’re doing and how they’re doing it, not that they need me to validate in any way.

“But I want our fans to know, the Notre Dame fans, that I’m 100 percent supportive of what they’re doing and how they are doing it on a day-to-day basis.”

Notre Dame should welcome Kelly with open arms. While he left in brutal fashion, he did as much as he ever was going to in South Bend before heading to LSU. Frankly, ND is better off after he chose to go South, and he left the school much better off than before he came.

Kelly built up a program that had been embarrassed for years under Bob Davie, (the George O’Leary fiasco), Tyrone Willingham, and Charlie Weis. Without Kelly, Notre Dame is not competing for a national championship this season with a better coach in Freeman.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Hollywood star Aubrey Plaza joined Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever in a recent practice session. The unexpected crossover was part of a promotional spot for NBC and Peacock’s coverage of the WNBA.

Plaza, who is currently six or seven months pregnant, is known for her deadpan comedy style, and she brought that same energy to practice. She also showed no mercy to Clark as the two engaged in some hilarious on-court banter.

To start, Plaza noted that the Fever guard has “unlimited range,” before suggesting that this may be nothing more than “maybe just a cardio avoidance tactic.”

The two then battled in a quick game of one-on-one. Clark missed a deep three-point attempt, which promoted some savagery from the 41-year-old actress.

 “Whoa, brick,” Plaza teased. “Hey, do you have any more bricks? I was trying to make a brick house for my baby.”

Aubrey Plaza joined Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston and the rest of the Fever team for a practice when they stopped in New York. pic.twitter.com/bk7erGAXUO

— WNBA on NBC and Peacock (@WNBAonNBC) July 13, 2026

Caitlin Clark, Fever looking to keep momentum going

Clark and the Fever are coming of a successful four-game road trip where they went 3-1. The three-time All-Star missed two out of those four games due to a back injury, but she was able to take the court in Sunday’s 109-75 blowout win over the Las Vegas Aces.

Clark was on a minutes restriction, but she still managed to make a significant impact in the game. The 24-year-old rgeistered 12 points, seven rebounds and six assists in 24 minutes of action.

Clark is working her way back to full strength. She could still play limited minutes in their next game, but she’s likely going to take a heavier load. The Fever are back in action on Wednesday for a home matchup against the Golden State Valkyries. Tipoff from gainbridge Fieldhouse is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET.

Related reading:

Unexpected Indiana Fever decision backfires

Caitlin Clark speaks out on Stephanie White’s decision

Sophie Cunningham’s UFC move draws honest admission from Dana White

Fever star Sophie Cunningham reacts to retirement news

The post Aubrey Plaza showed no mercy to Fever star Caitlin Clark appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark has been dating her boyfriend, Connor McCaffery for over three years now.

The couple started their romance in April 2023, while they were still both at Iowa. Clark was with the women’s team, while McCaffery suited up for the men’s basketball team. The couple went Instagram official on August 2023, announcing their relationship to the public. Clark posted a photo of themselves together on a boat, confirming that they were officially a couple.

It has been quite a ride for Clark from her time with the Hawkeyes to now that she’s established herself as one of the top players in the WNBA. Through it all, McCaffery has stood by her side.

Fever star Caitlin Clark celebrate boyfriend Connor McCaffery’s birthday

Clark has been equally supportive of her man. Following his stint with Iowa, McCaffery took on a job as an assistant coach for Butler University. In June this year, he left Butler to become a development coach for the Indiana Pacers’ NBA G League team, Noblesville Boom. This is McCaffery’s second stint with the Pacers organization after previously holding the position of basketball development coordinator and team assistant for their NBA squad.

McCaffery marked a personal milestone on Monday. He celebrated his 28th birthday, which prompted a heartfelt message from Clark on Instagram.

“Happyyyyy Birthdayyyy Con I love celebrating you always and can’t wait to see what this year brings you , ilyyy” the Fever star wrote, sharing photos of them together.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Caitlin Clark (@caitlinclark22)

Clark’s sweet message quickly drew the atention of friends and fans alike on social media.

“Happy Birthday family!! @connor_m30,” commented Pacers superstar Tyrese Haliburton.

“Conrad and mamacita ” reacted Fever rookie Raven Johnson.

“Happy birthday Unc” posted Clark’s former Iowa teammate, Jada Gyamfi.

“Happy Birthday CMac!!!!! ” wrote Jade Jones, Haliburton’s girlfriend.

“cutest couple ever ” a reaciton read.

“Couple goals happy Bday Conner” another said.

McCaffery also responded to Clark’s sweet message. “Love you thank u sm ” he wrote.

Clark and the Fever are off on Monday and Tuesday, giving her time to celebrate McCaffery’s birthday. Indiana’s next game is a home matchup against the Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday.

Related reading:

Unexpected Indiana Fever decision backfires

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The post Fever star Caitlin Clark’s message for boyfriend Connor McCaffery draws attention appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox find themselves in a spot not many believed they would be in at this point of the season. With the MLB All-Star break here, the White Sox sit in first place in the AL Central.

They have been one of the most surprising teams so far this season, surging after a bit of a sluggish start. While the White Sox are hoping to speed up this rebuild and get a taste of the playoffs this season, the future is also looking bright.

Over the weekend, the White Sox had the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft, selecting former UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky. The White Sox then took Landon Thome, out of Nazareth Academy, the son of Jim Thome at No. 34 overall. While those two picks stand out, the White Sox are earning some praise for their entire draft class already.

MLB analyst was blown away by White Sox draft haul

Senior MLB writer Jim Callis focuses on the draft year round, so he knows a lot about each class and prospect. When he praises you, it’s a good thing and that’s exactly what happened Monday for the White Sox.

While appearing on the “Mully & Haugh” show on 104.3 The Score, Callis says he was “blown away” by the White Sox draft haul.

“I always joke, the teams that always look the best are the teams that have the most draft picks or biggest bonus pool,” Callis said. “I’ll go to the White Sox, they had a $20 million bonus pool. You got Roch Cholowsky who is one of the two best players in the draft, you got two of the best high school hitters in Landon Thome and Cole Prosek. . . To get Cholowsky, Thome and Prosek at the top of the draft, I mean, I know they have other players and I’m not dismissing players in the big leagues or the system but I mean, you can have a scenario where that could be 3-4-5 for some team, or 1-2-3 for some team three or four years down the line. The White Sox draft just blew me away.”

"The White Sox draft just blew me away."@jimcallisMLB reacted to what the White Sox accomplished this weekend. pic.twitter.com/WCAYBiNkrP

— 104.3 The Score (@thescorechicago) July 13, 2026

While there was some talk the White Sox could target another player at one, they stuck to their plan. Landing three players like the trio Callis mentioned could be something we look back on a few years from now in a very positive way.

Even with a promising shortstop, the White Sox are hoping Cholowsky will be right there in the middle of their lineup for years to come.

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Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers is the heavy favorite for the National League MVP once again. That’s not a debate — it’s the gravitational reality of the sport. When Ohtani is healthy, he occupies the top of the ballot by default. Everyone else is fighting for oxygen.

But this season has introduced a wrinkle: Ohtani’s recent injury, the one significant enough to force him out of the upcoming All‑Star Game. Any time the sport’s most dominant player misses a marquee event, the conversation shifts. One must wonder whether the door is cracking open. Voters wonder whether durability should matter. And every other MVP candidate wonders whether this is their moment to make noise.

Still, even with the injury, Ohtani remains the favorite. His production, both as a hitter and as a pitcher, is so overwhelming that it doesn’t erase his lead. What it does do is create space — narrative space, emotional space, voter‑fatigue space — for someone else to step forward.

That’s where Pete Crow‑Armstrong enters the frame.

No one really expects to beat out Ohtani. But he is supposed to make voters think. And that alone puts him in rare company.

The Second‑half test: Last Year’s fade still lingers

Many fans will remember that PCA had an awesome first half last season. He looked like a breakout star, a future cornerstone, a player who could carry the Cubs into a new era.

Then the second half happened.

The numbers dipped. The consistency wavered. The maturity slipped. The emotional outbursts — the helmet tosses, the bat throws, the visible frustration — became part of the conversation.

And that’s the shadow hanging over his MVP candidacy now.

If PCA wants to be more than a fun first‑half story, he has to prove he can sustain it. He has to show he can handle the noise, the pressure, the expectations, and the inevitable slump that hits every baseball player throughout the season.

This award isn’t just about talent. It’s about endurance.

He also must deal with the noise from the media, who will be asking a lot of questions about him versus Ohtani, and create a narrative to make the race look interesting for the rest of the season. Yes, PCA’s talent and style of play are tailor‑made for narrative momentum. But if PCA fades again, the conversation ends. If he matures, stabilizes, and keeps producing, the door opens.

PCA’s MVP chances are real. But the second half will test his maturity, his consistency, and his ability to carry the Cubs without losing himself. If he passes that test, he becomes the rare player who can challenge Ohtani’s gravitational pull rather than just counting on voter fatigue. 

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Lexie Hull was in action for the Indiana Fever in their impressive win over the Las Vegas Aces on Sunday night.

The Fever made it two wins in a row by taking down the defending champions on their home floor, 109-75. This marked Indiana’s second straight win and its third victory on this four-game road trip. After a successful stint on the road, the Fever head back home with a 14-9 record and fifth in the WNBA standings.

Hull managed just two rebounds in 20 minutes during the blowout. However, as always, her contributions go far beyond the box score.

Kelsey Mitchell led the way with a game-high 27 points. Caitlin Clark turned in another strong all-around performance with 12 points, seven rebounds and six assists in just 24 minutes of action.

Lexie Hull looks amazing in all-black outfit for Indiana Fever game

Hull arrived at Michelob ULTRA Arena in style. The 6-foot-2 guard has earned a reputation as one of the most fashionable players on the squad, and she stayed true to that title for Sunday’s contest.

Hull wore a black sleeveless top with a cowl neckline and thin spaghetti straps. She paired it with fitted, high-waisted black shorts, creating the appearance of a little black dress. The 26-year-old capped off her chic, elegant and understated ensemble with black strappy heeled sandals, a small zebra-print shoulder bag and minimal accessories.

Lexie Hull https://t.co/yYujvLUs9k pic.twitter.com/fsLf36SUVO

— Athlete Vanity (@AthleteVanity) July 12, 2026

Hull’s next fashion statement will come on Wednesday. The Fever get two days off before their next game, a home matchup against the Golden State Valkyries. Tipoff from Gainbridge Fieldhouse is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET.

Related reading:

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Sophie Cunningham, Lexie Hull go viral with new bikini photos

Fever coach Stephanie White leaves no doubt about her opinion of Alyssa Thomas

The post Lexie Hull stuns in sleeveless outfit for Fever-Aces game appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Chicago White Sox rookie Munetaka Murakami has been one of the best stories in Major League Baseball this season. His efforts have helped the White Sox sit in first place in the AL Central at the MLB All-Star Break.

In 60 games, Murakami is hitting .232 but has 20 home runs with 49 hits and 42 RBI’s overall. He’s primed for a big season overall if he can keep this pace for the second half. He was also named an AL All-Star for the game in Philadelphia and also is participating in the Home Run Derby.

But before Murakami participated in the Home Run Derby on Monday, he made a very special announcement.

Munetaka Murakami officially joins Jordan Brand

As Murakami took the field on Monday night for the Home Run Derby, he did so sporting the Air Jordan 3 “True Blue” cleats. That’s because Murakami is now officially a Jordan Brand athlete.

The rookie signed a deal to be a Jordan Brand athlete, joining a talented MLB team. He’s the first White Sox player since Tim Anderson to be signed to Jordan Brand.

Chicago White Sox star Munetaka Murakami is signing a deal with Jordan Brand

Murakami will debut the “True Blue” Air Jordan 3 cleats at the MLB Home Run Derby pic.twitter.com/nFadv0vbeg

— Nice Kicks (@nicekicks) July 14, 2026

“Joining Jordan Brand is a dream come true,” Murakami said. “The Jumpman stands for greatness, confidence and pushing beyond limits — values that have inspired me throughout my career. To be part of a family that includes some of the world’s greatest athletes is an incredible honor, and I’m excited to represent Jordan Brand on the field and help grow the game of baseball for the next generation.”

As part of the deal, Murakami will sport Jordan Brand gear throughout the year. As we previously mentioned, he’s also wearing the Air Jordan 3 cleats which are set to release this weekend via Nike.

Murakami’s story is a fun one and now he’s joining a prominent brand headlined by a Chicago legend in Michael Jordan.

The post Munetaka Murakami makes special announcement ahead of MLB Home Run Derby appeared first on ChiCitySports.

One of the talking points about the Chicago White Sox potentially passing on Roch Cholowsky was that the UCLA shortstop was expected to land a hefty rookie deal.

The White Sox chose to draft Cholowsky with the No. 1 pick on Saturday and are set to pay him a record deal.

Per MLB.com, Chicago gave Cholowsky a signing bonus of $10.35 million, over $1 million more than the bonuses given by the Cincinnati Reds to Chase Burns and the Colorado Rockies to Charlie Condon in 2024.

Via the MLB:

“The No. 1 selection in this year’s MLB Draft, UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky, has passed his physical and will sign with the White Sox with a record-setting signing bonus of $10.35 million (the slot value for the pick was $11,350,600), a source told MLB Pipeline’s Jim Callis.

“Cholowsky’s bonus eclipses the $9.3 million bonuses given to Reds right-hander Chase Burns and Rockies outfield prospect Charlie Condon when they were drafted in 2024.”

More News: Grading the White Sox 5 day 1 2026 MLB Draft selections

Roch Cholowsky happy to be with Chicago White Sox

More News: White Sox 2025 All-Star could be back soon after latest milestone

After learning he was drafted by the White Sox, Cholowsky said he was excited to play for a contender in Chicago.

“It’s awesome,” he said. “I know I’m not going straight to the big leagues; there’s a lot of work that needs to be put in. But seeing how well the team at the top is doing and the moves they’re making, the way they’re playing, it’s definitely a lot more motivation to get up there and join those guys at some point.

“Being able to be part of a contender is pretty cool. I value winning a lot. Seeing what they’re doing up there for the first half of the season is pretty special.”

The White Sox won’t play Cholowsky, 21, during the regular season this year, at least not in the majors. However, there is a chance he could be called up into the big leagues by the end of the 2027 campaign.

Chicago is set to make a push for the postseason this year after a dramatic turnaround from the embarrassing 2024 and 2025 seasons. Cholowsky could be a part of a World Series push in the next few seasons with the White Sox.

And he’ll be paid handsomely for it.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox entered the All-Star break this week tied with the Cleveland Guardians for first place in the American League Central with a 50-45 record, 10 wins short of their total victories for the entire 2025 campaign.

Even if the White Sox don’t win the division, they’re set up well to make the Wild Card, though any postseason appearance would be stunning from a team that went 41-121 in 2024 and 60-102 in 2025.

To say the turnaround has been dramatic would be an understatement, though some around the MLB are curious if the White Sox are riding a fluke. With a win differential of plus-35, Chicago seems for real, though the team would benefit from adding help to their starting pitching rotation for the back half of the season.

The White Sox sent three players to the All-Star game this week: 3B Miguel Vargas, OF Tristan Peters, and 1B Munetaka Murakami.

Murakami told Ryan McGuffey of The REKAP that the White Sox intend to make a World Series push coming out of the All-Star break.

More News: White Sox 2025 All-Star could be back soon after latest milestone

Munetaka Murakami: Chicago White Sox can make World Series

More News: Grading the White Sox 5 day 1 2026 MLB Draft selections

“We’re not afraid of anything right now,” Murakami said. “We want to win, and we have that winning culture in our blood, so we’re going to look forward to going to the World Series, and that’s where we’re aiming right now. Nothing is surprising us at the moment.”

It might be a long shot, but the White Sox can’t be counted out of the World Series picture this summer. Chicago is one of only five AL teams with a winning record at the break.

The White Sox surprised the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers in June by taking two games of a three-game series in Chicago.

The White Sox have been dominant at Rate Field, going 31-17 at home. Chicago will need to improve playing on the road to be a World Series threat. The White Sox are 19-28 during away games this season.

Even if the White Sox fail to make a deep push in the postseason, the team looks like it will contend for the MLB crown in the future, and their latest draft class could continue a dynasty.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Sophie Cunningham had one of her best games of the season for the Indiana Fever on Sunday night. The 6-foot-2 guard went off for 20 points on 6-of-7 shooting from beyond the arc. Thanks in part to Cunningham’s strong performance, the Fever took down the Las Vegas Aces at Michelob ULTRA Arena in a dominant blowout, 109-75.

Cunningham and the Fever got the opportunity to see their former teammate in action on Sunday. Justine Pissott played in her second game for the Aces after her mid-season move from Indiana.

The Fever selected Pissott as the 25th overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft. However, she failed to crack head coach Stephanie White’s rotation. Indiana ultimately decided to let her go. The team refused to match the Aces’ contract offer for the former Vanderbilt star, allowing Pissott to take her talents to Vegas.

Indiana Fever: Sophie Cunningham addresses Justine Pissott’s big game

After failing to log any minutes for the Fever during her time with the team, the Aces immediately thrust Pissott into the lineup days after her signing. The rookie rewarded Vegas’ trust with an explosive debut.

Pissott scored 19 points in one quarter on Saturday against the Phoenix Mercury, setting the record for most points in a single quarter in a WNBA debut. This immediately led Fever fans to question the team’s decision to let Pissott leave.

On Sunday, ahead of the Fever-Aces game, Cunningham shared her honest thoughts on her former teammate. The veteran sent a strong message on Pissott.

“I’m so proud of her, man,” Cunningham said. “She can shoot the heck out of the ball, and I think any team is lucky to have her. Anyone that has a stretch four that can shoot, I mean, that’s a huge position in the W. And so I think that she showed her potential of what she can do from the three-point line.

“We spent quite a few months with her. And so we’re just proud to see her be successful and have a team really embrace her.”

Sophie was asked by @chloepeterson67 about Justine Pissott’s performance yesterday

Via @TonyREast YT pic.twitter.com/Zg8V1qC4Nn

— ericaf455 (@ericaf455) July 12, 2026

Pissott cooled down on Sunday against her former team. After her 19-point debut, the 6-foot-4 guard-forward managed just two points and one rebound in 14 minutes against Indiana.

Nevertheless, as Cunningham said, Pissott has proven she belongs in the WNBA. She may no longer be on the Fever, but Cunningham and Co. continue to support Pissott now that she’s moved on.

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The post Sophie Cunningham sends strong message after Fever’s questionable decision appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs have been hit with the injury big through the first half of the 2026 MLB season. As we sit here at the MLB All-Star break, Chicago has 13 pitchers on the injured list this season. That’s enough for a full rotation and a bullpen.

The injuries have ranged from season-ending to a short IL stint but either way, it’s not been good.

Chicago currently sits five games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central and will need to make a push in the second half. Getting guys healthy and figuring out the pitching will be the biggest keys. Those go hand in hand as well. But as we sit here at the All-Star break, Craig Counsell had some good news regarding one injured pitcher.

Craig Counsell believes Ben Brown will return for Chicago Cubs

One of the pitchers on the injured list is Ben Brown. He went down with a stress reaction/fracture in the neck on June 25th, right after enjoying a bit of a breakout season. However, Counsell believes Brown will return this season but there’s a small catch.

He doesn’t know if it will be in the rotation or as a reliever as he told the Chicago Sun-Times:

‘Will right-hander Ben Brown pitch again this season?

That question earned an easy “yes” from manager Craig Counsell on Sunday.

Whether that means Brown, on the IL while recovering from a stress fracture in a vertebrae in his neck, will have enough time to build back up and slot back into the rotation, however, remains unknown.

“I don’t know if we have clarity on that yet,” Counsell said.’

Counsell mentions an “easy” yes, which is great news. The Cubs could really use Brown in any spot over the final 60 or so games of the season, especially if they are making a push to the playoffs.

In eight games this season, Brown was 4-2 with a 1.85 ERA in 68 innings pitched. He became a weapon for the Cubs in that rotation and now, Counsell could have the option of him in the bullpen. For now, the first step is getting Brown healthy and then taking it from there.

The post Craig Counsell has positive news for key Chicago Cubs starter’s injury appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Indiana Fever picked up three rookies in the 2026 WNBA Draft. At this point in the season, only one of them is still on the team.

The Fever used their 10th overall pick on South Carolina standout Raven Johnson, the reigning SEC Defensive Player of the Year. She isn’t exactly in contention for Rookie of the Year, but she’s provided an impact as a rotational piece for head coach Stephanie White.

Alabama guard Jessica Timmons was Indiana’s third and final pick. However, after selecting her 40th overall in the third round, the team waived her services days before the season started.

Justine Pissott, the 25th overall pick in the draft, secured a developmental contract with the Fever. However, the Vanderbilt guard-forward never got the chance to make her debut for the team. On July 7, Pissott left the Fever to sign with the Las Vegas Aces.

Former Fever rookie Justine Pissott goes off in Aces debut

As it turns out, Pissott is very much capable of playing at the WNBA level.

On Saturday, just days after joining the defending champions Aces, the 6-foot-4 rookie played in her first WNBA game for Las Vegas. Not only did she play, but Pissott made history by scoring 19 points in 10 minutes of action. This was the most points in a single quarter in a WNBA debut.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Las Vegas Aces (@lvaces)

While most fans congratulated Pissott on her tremendous achievement, more than a few others could not help but call out the Fever. These supporters believe that Indiana’s unexpected decision to let Pissott leave has now backfired on the team.

“So happy for Justine !!! The Fever really blew a great opportunity with an amazing player !!!” a comment on Instagram read.

“Oh Indy what a mistake!” another said.

“Great job Stephanie white ” a user wrote.

“@indianafever we all have questions,” a reaction read.

“Fever fumbled ” said another.

“Hope she goes off against the Fever tomorrow (worst front office ever),” a fan posted.

Pissott played 13 minutes in Sunday’s game between the Aces and the Fever. She managed just two points on 1-of-5 shooting, one rebound and a block.

It was a lopsided loss for the Aces as the Fever dominated on the road. Pissott watched her former team turn it on en route to a 109-75 blowout in favor of Indiana.

Related reading:

Fever star Sophie Cunningham reacts to retirement news

Fever coach Stephanie White refuses to address Caitlin Clark development

Sophie Cunningham, Lexie Hull go viral with new bikini photos

Fever coach Stephanie White leaves no doubt about her opinion of Alyssa Thomas

The post Unexpected Indiana Fever decision backfires appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs need pitching. They DESPERATELY need pitching.

They’ve done remarkably well so far this season, dealing with a staff decimated by injuries. It’s frankly amazing that they’ve managed to remain a playoff-favored team currently missing four starting rotation pitchers (Cade Horton, Edward Cabrera, Jameson Taillon, Ben Brown), their closer (Daniel Palencia) and a handful of top relievers. Even rehabbing ace Justin Steele, who was due back by mid-season from last year’s elbow surgery, has suffered a setback that places the rest of this season in doubt).

More News: Chicago Cubs: Insane Pete Crow-Armstrong stats are making history

Still, the Cubs are twelve games over .500 and owners of the top spot in the NL Wild Card race.

Realistically, though, there’s little chance of the team doing much in the postseason with a pitching staff full of doubts, hobbled assets, and emergency fill-ins. That’s why Cubs president Jed Hoyer and the front office need to be aggressive buyers at the August 3 MLB trade deadline, in the hunt for top-of-rotation starting pitching and reliable bullpen arms.

The problem is that lots of teams are still in contention for playoff spots and the seller list may be pretty small come early August.

Seattle Mariners president Jerry Dipoto recently expressed his belief that the tight market may necessitate some buyer-to-buyer trades between contending teams this deadline.

Cubs-Mariners trade?

More News: Chicago Cubs actually have cause for pitching optimism heading into All-Star break

So, taking this into consideration, Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report proposed a deal between the Mariners and the Cubs that could satisfy the hitting-deficient Mariners and the pitching-deficient Cubs.

Per Miller:

“It may have just been an observation on the general state of the league and not necessarily a tell as to what the Mariners are planning to do at the deadline. But this is a buyer-to-buyer deal that figures to benefit both sides.

While the M’s have a stout six-man starting rotation, the Cubs have a surplus of bats and a dearth of starting pitching. And since getting out to a brutal start to the year, Castillo has a 2.72 ERA across his last seven appearances and a 3.83 FIP for the year. He reasonably could become Chicago’s Game 1 starter in the postseason.”

Big gamble

Needless to say, this would be a huge gamble for the Cubs, specifically as Suzuki is a big part of the team’s offense. There would also be the hurdle of Suzuki’s no-trade clause to overcome.

But could this be a gamble worth taking?

The 33-year-old Castillo is not having a great year. He’s currently posting a 3-8 record with a 4.93 ERA through 18 games (15 starts)—although his 4.16 FIP gives some hope that bad luck has played a part in the ugly stat line. His status as the Mariners’ sixth starter in a deep rotation makes him expendable.

On the banged-up Cubs, though, he’d be near the top of the rotation.

He’s also under contract through next season for a bit over $22 million, meaning Chicago could plug him into the rotation next year if/when Matthew Boyd, Jameson Taillon, and Shota Imanaga walk via free agency at the end of this year.

Suzuki, meanwhile, is having a good season. However, he’s due to become a free agent at the end of this season and it’s fairly likely that the Cubs will lose him on the open market.

This Suzuki-for-Castillo trade would be a huge risk for the usually risk-averse Cubs, but it could conceivably be the team’s only shot at grabbing a potential impact starting pitcher by the deadline.

Time will tell what the Cubs plan to do by August 3.

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The 2026 MLB Amateur Draft has arrived as fans look to the future, but first, we look over the past decade and evaluate how the first round has gone for the Chicago Cubs. It’s safe to say that the recent collection of high picks dating back to 2017 has not looked particularly great.

This comes after a seven-year stretch (2011-2015) that saw the Cubs draft Javier Baez, Kris Bryant, Kyle Schwarber, and Ian Happ in the first round.

It’s always important to state the obvious that not every big prospect pans out. No team is going to have a decade of perfection in hitting on their high draft picks. Some players thrive, some play adequately, some get hurt, some get traded, and some don’t pan out for various reasons. Some also bloom later in their professional careers.

Either way, here is a look back at the Cubs first round picks since 2017-2025.

The good.

The hit that clearly stands out is Nico Hoerner. It’s been rough in 2026 so far, but overall, he has been worth a 21.3 bWAR with 825 career hits and is a two-time Gold Glove winner. He was drafted 24th overall in 2018 and made his debut late in 2019 after several injuries forced the Cubs to call him up for need.

Hoerner is one of six Cubs first-rounders since 2000 to eclipse the 20.0 bWAR mark in the Majors. The others include Bryant, Baez, Happ, Schwarber, and Josh Donaldson (who never played in a Cubs uniform).

The not so great.

The turn of the decade has not been kind to the Cubs in the first round. Outside of Hoerner, the Cubs from 2017-2021 drafted Alex Lange (2017, 30th overall), Brendon Little (2017, 27th overall), Ryan Jensen (2019, 27th overall), Ed Howard (2020, 16th overall), and Jordan Wicks (2021, 21st overall). Granted, these picks came off the “Golden Era” of Cubs baseball, so most were late first-rounders, but first-rounders no less.

Lange never pitched for the Cubs; he was traded away as a prospect in 2019 in the Nick Castellanos deal. He’s been decent with the Tigers and Royals, pitching to a 4.08 ERA, 3.95 FIP, 1.4 WHIP, and 259 strikeouts in 222.2 innings. Castellanos was a baller in 2019, but the Cubs failed to make the postseason. Little pitched 2/3 of an inning as a Cub in 2022, giving up three runs. He’s since been with the Blue Jays and pitched pretty well for them in 2024 and 2025, posting a 3.32 ERA, 3.71 FIP, and 1.3 WHIP in 128 appearances.

Jensen and Howard have not seen the Majors. At 28 years old, Jensen is back with the Cubs organization after bouncing between the Mariners (who claimed him from the Cubs in 2023) and Twins organizations. He sports a career 4.66 ERA in the minors. Howard, the local shortstop from Mount Carmel, is only 24, but the bat has not come around. In the minors, he’s hit .213/.270/.287 in 314 games with 11 homers. He’s long fallen off the top prospect rankings.

The jury is out.

Recent high draft picks cannot be ruled as busts or hits yet. Bringing back Wicks into this fold, so far it’s looked like a bust. He’s pitched to a 5.72 ERA, 4.69 FIP, and 1.6 WHIP in 30 MLB appearances so far. He’s also had some injury issues in recent years. It looks bad now, and odds say it will remain that way. There is still a chance he could find some value, though it’s hard to depend on it.

One of the most exciting recent high picks by the Cubs was Cade Horton (2022, 7th overall). He electrified in his rookie season last year in 2025 (2.67 ERA, 3.58 FIP, 97 strikeouts in 118 innings). The elbow injury was devastating this year, and it will be a while before he pitches again. He was looking so promising.

The most recent high pick on the team is Matt Shaw (2023, 13th overall). He’s had his ups and downs so far in the Majors, but he’s only 24. Shaw has a .737 OPS on the season and has shown defensive prowess on the infield, and is getting settled in the outfield. Whether he is trade bait or the future utility man, in a small sample, there is enough to hope that he can be a valuable piece.

Last to note are Cam Smith (2024, 14th overall) and Ethan Conrad (2025, 17th overall). Smith was traded to the Astros in the Kyle Tucker deal. He’s only 23, but he won’t be a part of the Cubs future. Conrad just arrived at low-A Myrtle Beach and has a ways to go.

The post Chicago Cubs: High picks over the past decade haven’t been pretty appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox look like a completely different team in 2026 than they did just one year ago. Entering the All-Star break, they’re 50-45, tied for first place in the American League Central, and are sending three players to the Midsummer Classic: Munetaka Murakami, Tristan Peters, and Miguel Vargas.

The contrast to last season couldn’t be greater. At the same point in 2025, the White Sox were just 32-65, sitting in last place in the AL Central, with breakout rookie starter and Rule 5 Draft pick Shane Smith serving as the club’s lone All-Star.

That said, to begin the 2026 campaign, Smith got the nod as the teams Opening Day starter, but command issues and poor performance resulted in him being optioned to Triple-A. Then, in early May, he was placed on the injured list with a rotator cuff strain. Now halfway through July, he is back pitching again and seems to be nearing a return.

Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Shane Smith is one step closer to returning

Before landing on the injured list, Smith last appeared in a game on April 30. At that point, command was still an issue as through four minor league starts he had walked eight batters. After a two month absence between outings, he has returned looking sharp, both with the Winston-Salem Dash in High-A and Charlotte Knights in Triple-A.

Smith made two rehab appearances with High-A Winston-Salem on July 1 and July 7. As planned, he logged a combined 4.2 innings, allowing just two walks while recording six strikeouts, including a five-strikeout performance over 2.2 innings in his second outing.

He then returned to Triple-A on July 12, where he tossed 4.0 strong innings, walked one batter, and struck out five. He clearly has more building up to do in the pitch count area, but so far the results are promising that he has returned to All-Star form.

Shane Smith is fired up after a sharp start today. His first outing with the Knights since April 30th.

4 IP, 1 ER, 1 BB, & 5 K make up his final line.@KnightsBaseball #WhiteSox pic.twitter.com/OIy1W9soDA

— Kendall Smith (@SmithKendall__) July 12, 2026

If Smith is able to rejoin the White Sox this season, his upside could arguably slot him in as the club’s No. 2 or No. 3 starter behind Davis Martin. A healthy Smith returning to the form that earned him an All-Star selection would provide a significant boost to Chicago’s rotation as it pushes for a postseason berth.

Should the White Sox reach October, having Smith alongside Martin would give them a much stronger foundation for a playoff rotation and improve their chances of competing in a short series.

The post White Sox 2025 All-Star could be back soon after latest milestone appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup wraps up this week with just four more matches left. It’s been a memorable tournament in North America and now MLS is looking to build on that, including the Chicago Fire.

The Fire return to the pitch on Thursday night, hosting the Vancouver Whitecaps at Soldier Field. With the Fire right there in the middle of the mix for the MLS Playoffs, they are hoping to go on a big run. When they take the field on Thursday, keeper Chris Brady will be in net as he returns from his USMNT call up to the World Cup the past month.

Brady has been fantastic for the Fire and with the call up, there is now rumors of him eventually heading to Europe to play for a club there. And that’s what one ESPN analyst believes will happen.

European interest growing for Chris Brady per ESPN analyst

With the World Cup coming to an end, ESPN looked at 30 prospects for the 2030 World Cup. Brady was listed among three keepers who should be on the roster barring any injury or poor play. But in the note about Brady, they had something very interesting to say about his future.

Here is what ESPN soccer analyst Jeff Carlisle said about Brady’s future:

It seems a question of when and not if Brady decides to head overseas. He has had inquiries from Europe before and sources told ESPN that there was no letup in interest from European teams. He has already amassed 115 first-team appearances in Chicago, so now is the time.

While it would be a loss for the Fire, it could be HUGE for Brady and the national team. With the struggles that Matt Freese had in the loss to Belgium, Brady has a chance to make a serious push to be the starting keeper in 2030. Going overseas and playing in Europe could be very beneficial for him in terms of reaching that goal.

For now Brady remains a key part of the Fire, but don’t be shocked if he takes that chance overseas.

The post ESPN analyst hints at more European interest for Chicago Fire keeper appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs are giving platform to the making of a true superstar in Pete Crow-Armstrong.

While last year’s first-half performance was working at almost a legendary level, the young star’s second half showed some of the mental and technical hiccups that kept him as someone closer to a work in progress than an established elite.

More News: Chicago Cubs actually have cause for pitching optimism heading into All-Star break

This year’s first half, however, is showcasing definite “finished product” vibes. Since May 30, he’s hitting .385 with a crazy on base percentage of .474.

The raw power and stolen base numbers aren’t as high as pre-All-Star break last year, but PCA’s plate discipline and ability to make meaningful contact with hittable pitches is much improved. The end result has been a level of excellence that is actually sustainable and not just the product of an extended hot streak or two.

So far this season, the 24-year-old is slashing .291/.386/.531 and is sporting an OPS of .917, with 21 home runs, 53 RBIs, and 24 stolen bases. He’s also playing his usual stellar defensive center field. His across the board numbers, per writer and analyst Matt Clapp, make him a FanGraphs Top 3 player in both offense and defense

PCA’s WAR is OMG

More News: Chicago Cubs 2026 draft picks lean on pitching and power

Just as impressive is Crow-Armstrong’s 6.0 WAR according to FanGraphs.

Not only is the Cubs’ only 2026 All-Star Game representative putting up monstrous numbers, he’s also an indispensable asset to his team according this “Wins Above Replacement” metric.

Michael Cerami of Bleacher Nation recently put PCA’s WAR into perspective, shining a spotlight on just how special this 2026 run has been (and could further be):

“In the entire history of this franchise, there have been just 55 FULL SEASONS in which a Cubs player has earned at least 6.0 WAR, with only 28 different players accomplishing in a full season what PCA just did in half a year…

Indeed, even if PCA’s second half was as brutally awful/terrible/rotten/no good as 2025 (as in, the same performance from here on out), he’d finish with one of the top-30 seasons in Cubs franchise history by fWAR.

But here’s the thing … I already told you this was more sustainable. So I think there’s reason to believe he could finish with something close to the very best Cubs season ever (for a position player). I don’t think he’ll ultimately top Rogers Hornsby’s 1929 campaign (11.0 WAR), but Sammy Sosa’s 9.9 WAR in 2001 (second highest) certainly feels within reach.”

“Pretty Amazing”

Cubs first baseman Michael Busch echoes Cerami’s assertion that we’re watching something special.

“It puts into perspective what we’re watching,” Busch recently told reporters. “I feel like every time he’s at the plate, he’s getting on first base or hitting a home run or hitting for the cycle.

“You’re talking about every part of his game being at the top, which makes you one of the best players in the game. … It’s super meaningful to this team to have a guy go out there and be one of the best hitters, be one of the best defenders and base runners in the game. It’s all in one person. It’s pretty amazing.”

The post Chicago Cubs: Insane Pete Crow-Armstrong stats are making history appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Caitlin Clark needed just 24 minutes to make a significant impact on the Indiana Fever’s blowout win over the Las Vegas Aces on Sunday night.

Clark missed Indiana’s last game due to a back injury, but she returned on Sunday against the reigning champions. The three-time All-Star was under a strict minutes restriction in this one, but this was more than enough time for her to help lead Indiana to an impressive 109-75 win over A’ja Wilson and Co.

Clark finished with 12 points on 5-of-11 shooting, with seven rebounds, six assists and one three-pointer. It was a nice all-around performance for the 24-year-old as she continues to manage her back issue.

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark addresses minutes restriction

Clark played just 16 minutes on Wednesday against the Los Angeles Sparks. She sat out on Thursday before returning to action for Sunday’s matchup.

Ahead of the Aces game, Fever head coach Stephanie White said Clark would be limited to 25 minutes. The former Iowa Hawkeyes star knew the plan heading in as she addressed White’s decision in her pregame interview.

“I think when it’s your first game back, it’s probably a little bit different than having some success and then me kind of telling them how I’m feeling,” Clark said.

“… So hopefully play in five-minute spurts, maybe closer to six at other points. But you also kind of have to see how the game’s going, too. And whether we’re winning, do we need to save minutes for the fourth, whatever it is.

“But those aren’t decisions I’m making in-game. That’s the coaches. But yeah, I would expect it to be basically double, if not a little bit more than what I did last time.”

Clark said pregame that she feels “ready to go” and that she’s “excited to play 25 minutes.” Her performance on the evening, albeit limited by the restriction, proved that she is, indeed, getting close to being fully healthy.

It remains to be seen if White and her coaching staff will continue to limit Clark’s playing time in their next game. The Fever get two days off before they return to action on Wednesday against the Golden State Valkyries at home.

Related reading:

Fever star Sophie Cunningham reacts to retirement news

Fever coach Stephanie White refuses to address Caitlin Clark development

Sophie Cunningham, Lexie Hull go viral with new bikini photos

Fever coach Stephanie White leaves no doubt about her opinion of Alyssa Thomas

The post Caitlin Clark speaks out on Stephanie White’s decision appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox reached the MLB All-Star break 50-45 record, which has them tied for first place in the American League Central Division. Their record and level of play this season has been a surprise to many, who thought that the White Sox would, once again, be among the worst teams in Major League Baseball.

Instead, Chicago is one of just a handful of American League teams with a record over .500. What is more, for the first time in several years, they have more than one player representing them in the MLB All-Star Game.

Miguel Vargas was the only one named to the initial roster, but Munetaka Murakami and Tristan Peters have been added since.

Where Chicago White Sox slugger Munetaka Murakami ranks among Home Run Derby participants

In addition to being added to the American League All-Star roster as a replacement, Murakami accepted an invitation to participate in the Home Run Derby, which is being aired on Netflix on Monday night.

On Monday morning, MLB.com released its rankings of the eight sluggers who are participating in the event. Murakami, who is a rookie, was ranked fourth:

“There aren’t many players in baseball — in baseball history, really — who have hit moonshots quite like Murakami. And even if injuries have slowed him down in his rookie season, having him back and ready to go is a sign we’re about to see some of these impressive big flies launched into the Philadelphia night.

“It’s also excellent to see the White Sox — one of the best stories of the first half of the season — represented during All-Star Week as well. This is a team, and of course a player, that the world should see more of.”

As mentioned, Murakami is only just returning from injury, a strained hamstring that kept him out for over a month. At the time he went on the injured list, he led the American League with 20 home runs.

While he has not homered in the three games since his return, Murakami still ranks among the AL and MLB leaders in home runs.

Seeing him hit in the Home Run Derby is going to be very entertaining, especially for fans who have not been able to watch him consistently.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• Grading the 5 White Sox selections on Day 1 of the 2026 MLB Draft
• White Sox select Roch Cholowsky with 1st pick in 2026 MLB Draft
• Tristan Peters named to AL All-Star roster 1 day after hitting for the cycle

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The post Chicago Cubs 2026 draft reveal disturbing truth about their pitching appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs are 54-42 on the season as they have reached the MLB All-Star break. This first half has certainly been a roller coaster for Chicago, who ended it on a high note by taking two out of three games against the Cincinnati Reds.

Indeed, the Cubs have been playing excellent baseball as of late, reminiscent of earlier in the season when they won ten games in a row on two separate occasions. It has been a great month for Chicago, who are 20-8 in the last 28 games, a great improvement over a recent stretch that saw them go a full month without winning a single series.

Chicago Cubs take top-5 spot in BR’s MLB power rankings

After weeks of going back-and-forth with other NL Central teams, the Cubs have been able to separate themselves from the pack, so to speak. The Milwaukee Brewers still lead the division, but it once again appears to be a two-team race between them and the Cubs.

When Bleacher Report released their MLB power rankings for the week, they had Chicago ranked fifth, on spot up from last week:

“After starting out 7-9, the Cubs won 20 of their next 23, lost 22 of their next 29 and then closed out the first half with wins in 20 of their last 28 games. Whether they’ll be Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde in October remains to be seen. But for all the talk about the need to upgrade this pitching staff at the deadline, it’s probably going to hinge on the offense. The Cubs have won 19 of the last 20 games in which they’ve scored at least five runs, including all four of their victories this week.”

As BR notes, the Cubs’ continued success this season is going to have a great deal to depend on the health of performance of their pitching staff. It will be interesting to see what the team does as the MLB trade deadline approaches, and who they are able to acquire.

Ideally, they would be able to nab at least two front-line starters that stay healthy, as well as a solidly reliable reliever.

More Chicago Cubs news from ChiCity Sports

• Craig Counsell reveals dire injury update on key pitcher
• Why Ethan Conrad’s promotion is key for the Cubs
• Cubs actually have cause for pitching optimism after All-Star break

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Caleb Williams had an incredible second season for the Chicago Bears last season. The 24-year-old cemented his status as one of the best young quarterbacks in the NFL.

There’s no denying, however, that Williams would not be in the position he is in now had it not been for his offensive line. Joe Thuney won the NFL’s inaugural Protector of the Year award, and he played arguably the most important role in shielding Williams from the opposition.

Another player who emerged as a bona fide star for Chicago’s OL in 2025 is offensive lineman Darnell Wright. The third-year tackle had a big year and, alongside Thuney, formed one of the league’s most effective offensive lines.

ESPN ranks Chicago Bears’ Darnell Wright No. 6 on best OT list

A testament to Wright’s rise to the top is his current ranking in ESPN’s top NFL offensive tackles for 2026. The network surveyed executives, coaches, and scouts across the league to determine the 10 best players at each position.

The league has spoken, and Wright ranks as the sixth-best OT in the NFL.

“Wright is on an upward trajectory as an anchor of Chicago’s vaunted offensive line. The team ranked third in rushing and top 10 in overall offense,” Jeremy Fowler of ESPN wrote.

“Power and brute strength,” an NFL personnel director said. “He can do whatever he wants on a football field.”

Fowler went on to point out that Wright played through a nagging shoulder injury in 2025. Now that he’s had a full offseason to rest and recuperate, more is expected from the 10th overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Related reading:

Bears QB Caleb Williams is trending after Jordan Love news

Bears’ Colston Loveland beats out Travis Kelce in ESPN TE rankings

Jaylon Johnson injury update draws strong reactions from Bears fans

Bears star draws ‘perfect’ praise from NFL legend Tom Brady

The post Chicago Bears star ranked sixth-best in his position across NFL appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs have been absolutely ravaged by injuries this season, especially when it comes to their pitching staff. Their starting rotation has been absolutely decimated, and their bullpen has also taken some hits.

Somehow, the Cubs have managed to stay afloat and are firmly in the National League playoff picture, but you do have to wonder just how much longer they will hold up with such uncertainty on the mound.

While Chicago is dealing with injuries to known commodities like Cade Horton, Justin Steele, Edward Cabrera and Jameson Taillon, the club also has a sneaky injury in its bullpen: right-hander Hunter Harvey, who has been sidelined with right triceps inflammation since April.

Harvey was expected to be a big piece of the pen this season, with his impressive velocity giving him good strikeout potential. But the Cubs haven’t gotten much of a chance to see him, and manager Craig Counsell provided an update on the situation recently.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t sound too good.

Chicago Cubs’ Hunter Harvey might not return this season

Counsell revealed that Harvey does not seem close to returning and that “we’re going to have to push through” if the flamethrower is going to pitch again in 2026.

“We haven’t been completely asymptomatic,” Counsell said, via Patrick Mooney of The Athletic. “We know what we’re dealing with, but we’re not sure how it’s going to affect recovery, so we’re just going to have to go.”

Harvey has made four appearances out of the Cubs’ bullpen this season, allowing three runs on five hits while logging four strikeouts over five innings of work. Injuries are nothing new for the 31-year-old, as he missed most of the 2025 campaign with the Kansas City Royals due to a shoulder issue and an abductor injury.

The former first-round pick entered the big leagues with the Baltimore Orioles in 2019 and has registered a lifetime 3.19 ERA and 9.8 K/9 across 186 relief outings. His best year came with the Washington Nationals in 2023, when he posted a 2.82 ERA and 0.940 WHIP while racking up 67 punchouts through 60.2 frames.

If Chicago can get Harvey back at some point this season, it would obviously represent a massive boost for the bullpen, but based on Counsell’s latest assessment of the righty, it doesn’t appear that he is all that optimistic.

The post Cubs’ Craig Counsell reveals dire injury update on key pitcher appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham has been keeping busy with her off-court activities.

Apart from being a key player for the Fever this season, the 6-foot-1 guard also has a lot going on away from the team. Cunningham recently made her debut as a part-time analyst for USA Network’s WNBA coverage. On top of that, it was announced on Friday that the 29-year-old is launching her first Player Exclusive (PE) shoe with Adidas later this month.

Cunningham has now added UFC ring girl to her ever-growing resume. This is after the Fever guard stole the spotlight at UFC 329 in Las Vegas on Saturday night. Cunningham walked around the ring holding the round card during the co-main event between Paddy Pimblet and Benoit Saint Denis. Unsurprisingly, her latest move immediately went viral.

Dana White comments on Sophie Cunningham’s UFC 329 appearance

UFC CEO and President Dana White was asked about Cunningham’s surprise appearance. White shed light on why there was no prior notice about Cunningham’s new role with the UFC. As it turns out, nobody knew about it because it wasn’t planned in advance.

White admitted that she hired Cunningham “about eight minutes before she did it.”

“I love Sophie Cunningham, we’ve created a relationship, and she was here tonight,” the 56-year-old MMA icon said. “And when she walked in, she goes, ‘Oh, I want to walk around that.’ I said, ‘Then you’re going to walk around it.’ Yeah, she’s fun.”

 

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Cunningham was in Vegas over the weekend for the Fever’s road matchup against the Las Vegas Aces on Sunday. She decided to catch some MMA action the previous night, and it resulted in a truly memorable experience for her and UFC fans alike.

Cunningham followed up her UFC debut with a big night on the court against the Aces on Sunday. She helped lead the Fever to a 109-75 blowout win with 20 points off the bench on 7-of-9 shooting. Cunningham caught fire from beyond the arc, knocking down six triples in 23 minutes of action.

The Fever improved to 14-9 as they closed out their four-game road trip with a big win against the reigning champions.

Related reading:

Fever star Sophie Cunningham reacts to retirement news

Fever coach Stephanie White refuses to address Caitlin Clark development

Sophie Cunningham, Lexie Hull go viral with new bikini photos

Fever coach Stephanie White leaves no doubt about her opinion of Alyssa Thomas

The post Sophie Cunningham’s UFC move draws honest admission from Dana White appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Chicago Bears star quarterback Caleb Williams is certainly a player that is on the rise. With his signature win in the NFL Playoffs against the hated Green Bay Packers, Williams is starting to see more recognition come his way from multiple sources.

Of course, he has already been revealed to be on the cover of the next Madden video game. As the NFL continues to roll out its top-100 players list (as voted on by the players), it is widely known that Williams is on it, but just how high remains to be seen. He is, though, ranked above Packers quarterback Jordan Love, who was ranked 72nd.

Now, he has been counted among the top-10 quarterbacks in the NFL by league coaches, executives, and scouts.

Coaches, execs, and scouts rank Chicago Bears star Caleb Williams as a top-10 quarterback

ESPN recently released its list of the top-10 quarterbacks in the NFL as voted on by league coaches, executives, and scouts. Williams came in with the 10th overall ranking, above Love who was left off the list:

“Four quarterbacks — Williams, Seattle’s Sam Darnold, Green Bay’s Jordan Love and Washington’s Jayden Daniels — were very close in voting for the 10th spot. So we took it to tiebreakers, gathering input from several general managers and executives. Why did Williams barely win out for the final spot on the list? He’s the hardest of the four for teams to prepare for and defend.

“‘He’s the most dynamic of the group,’ one GM said. ‘He’s got the arm talent and overall athleticism suited for today’s game.'”

Some voters did not rank Williams in the top ten because of his accuracy issues in 2025, which both the Bears quarterback and head coach Ben Johnson have stated is an area of focus this off-season.

Others, though, voted Williams has high as the sixth-best quarterback in the NFL. It is interesting to note, too, that with the tiebreakers employed by ESPN, the Bears quarterback ended up ranked higher than Sam Darnold, who just won the Super Bowl.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• ESPN facing backlash over Bears OL Joe Thuney decision
• Joe Thuney losing key skill despite playing great
• Darnell Wright critized by NFL head coach

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Somewhere between the wild-card comeback against the Packers and the Madden 27 cover shoot, Caleb Williams turned into a price. MVP at +1500. Most-bet name in the preseason market. Win total at 9.5. The Super Bowl number on bizbet tightening since February. None of those numbers existed twelve months ago, and all of them exist because of what happened between September and January.

Three thousand nine hundred forty-two passing yards. That broke Erik Kramer’s 1995 franchise record by over a hundred yards, and it came with 27 touchdowns against 7 interceptions, a 90.1 passer rating, and seven game-winning drives tied with Bo Nix for the league lead. Six of those comebacks happened in the regular season. The seventh erased a double-digit halftime deficit against the Packers in the wild card, the kind of finish that turns a good season into a storyline the market remembers when it prices the next one. The MVP line moved on all of it.

The Bears went 11-6, took the NFC North for the first time since 2018, and picked up their first playoff win since 2010. The divisional round ended in overtime against the Rams, which is the game the roster learned the most from and the game that showed the roster where the ceiling sits and where the floor drops.

Where the Doubts Live in the Numbers

The completion percentage tells a less flattering story. Williams ranked near the bottom among qualified starters at 58.1%, and the distance between his best throws and his routine ones is where the sportsbooks see room for movement. QBs coach J.T. Barrett put it bluntly during the offseason. The goal is to show Williams that the offence works without heroics on every snap. Easy completions keep drives alive. The spectacular ones can arrive when they arrive.

His passing yardage prop opened at 3,650.5, with early money sitting on the over. The touchdown number landed at 23.5, below last year’s actual total, which tells you the market expects those yards to arrive differently this time. More sustained drives, fewer long touchdowns. Training camp footage of the intermediate game will move both numbers before September, and that footage is what the beat reporters with field access spend all of August filing. The completion percentage over/under is one of the softer props on the board right now because the market is split on whether Barrett’s coaching will reshape the rhythm of the offence or whether Williams’ instincts will override it under live pressure. That indecision is where the line sits loose.

A Receiver Room That Changed Shape Overnight

DJ Moore went to Buffalo. Eight touchdowns, a reliable intermediate presence, and the safety valve Williams looked for when the deep shot was not there. Gone.

Luther Burden caught the pass that got the most attention at minicamp, a deep ball in 11-on-11 with the kind of timing that does not usually show up in June. Rome Odunze stays outside. Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland split the tight end reps, with D’Andre Swift’s checkdown role expanding now that the intermediate middle of the field is thinner. Swift averaged 4.3 yards per carry last season but caught 52 passes, and the receiving workload is where his value grows most with Moore gone.

Burden’s receiving yard prop opened above Odunze’s, and camp will either confirm that pecking order or flip it. Moore’s eight red-zone touchdowns have to redistribute somewhere. Kmet’s touchdown prop already opened higher than last year’s number, and Odunze sits close behind, so the early-week practice reports from the red zone are worth more than most preseason box scores. The first-touchdown-scorer market for the Bears’ opener will price these names differently depending on what camp says about red-zone personnel, and that market is one of the last to settle before kickoff.

Five Starters Walked Out of the Secondary

Kevin Byard, Jaquan Brisker, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Jonathan Owens, Nahshon Wright. All gone. Dillon Thieneman arrived in the first round. Coby Bryant came with a Super Bowl ring from Seattle. Everyone else is auditioning.

The win total at 9.5 sits where it does partly because of this. A secondary learning a new scheme with new personnel is unlikely to produce the same turnovers, and the offence is expected to carry a heavier share of the margin. Whether Thieneman takes first-team reps from day one or rotates through the first week tells you how far along the rebuild is, and the line movement on the bizbet app once camp opens tends to reflect practice reports faster than most bettors check them.

The Bears’ defensive total props deserve a separate look. Interception and turnover numbers from last season came partly from scheme and partly from individual talent that walked out the door. If the preseason interception rate drops, the Bears’ points-against prop adjusts upward and the win total under gains a sharper edge. If Thieneman reads the field the way his college tape suggested, the defensive props hold and the 9.5 leans toward the over.

The Coaching Staff Shifted Under the Surface

Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle and running backs coach Eric Bieniemy both left. Press Taylor moved up from passing game coordinator. Barrett stayed, and that matters because of the Williams-Barrett relationship.

Johnson’s first year produced the third-highest-scoring offence in the league, built around Williams extending plays outside the pocket. Defenses now have a full year of tape on those tendencies, and the scramble-drill touchdowns that defined November are the first thing every defensive coordinator in the NFC North game-planned for this summer. The divisional odds at +370 put the Bears third behind the Packers and Vikings, a number that reflects the defensive questions louder than the offensive ones. Sixth-hardest schedule in the league, the tax that comes with winning the division, and early-season spreads will price each matchup with that difficulty baked in.

The Bears open as underdogs in three of their first five games based on early lookahead lines, unusual for a division winner. That pricing reflects the roster turnover more than the talent at quarterback, and the first three weeks of regular-season results will either confirm the number or force a correction that ripples through the win total and divisional odds at the same time.

What to Read From the First Week of Camp

Preseason box scores are mostly noise. Starters get a series or two and hand the rest to the backups. Training camp practices carry a different kind of signal, and the beat reporters with field access file the information that moves betting lines days before any preseason game kicks off.

• How often Williams checks down on early downs rather than holding for the deep shot. A higher rate than last year means the coaching took hold and the completion percentage over gains traction.
• Where Burden lines up. Slot means he absorbed Moore’s intermediate role. Outside means a different kind of target profile.
• Thieneman with the first-team defence from day one. If yes, the rebuild is ahead of the schedule the win total prices in.
• Red-zone personnel. Two-TE packages with Kmet and Loveland would shift the touchdown props for both tight ends.
• Secondary rotation depth. Heavy rotation in the opening week means the back end is still unsettled and the under on 9.5 firms up.

The prop markets adjust within days of the first practice reports, and this particular camp will move them faster than most. A quarterback whose ceiling the market has already started to price, a secondary that changed faces entirely, and a receiver room that reshuffled overnight. All three produce signals in the same week, and the lines will respond before the first preseason game kicks off.

The post Caleb Williams Year Three and the Betting Lines Moving appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox have made to the Major League Baseball 2026 All-Star break. Who could have thought, before the season, that at this point in the year, they would be tied for the lead in the American League Central Division and one of just a handful of AL teams with a winning record?

After three consecutive seasons with more than 100 losses, including the worst record in MLB history in 2024, Chicago has emerged from the cellar further along in their rebuild than many thought.

This is not to say they have been elite. There are plenty of issues the team still can and needs to fix. But the fact of the matter is that, even as they are, the White Sox are one of the best teams in the league.

MLB analyst puts haters on blast as Chicago White Sox maintain top-10 ranking

At 50-45, the White Sox are tied with the Cleveland Guardians atop the AL Central. They got swept by the Boston Red Sox last week, but bounced back to sweep the Athletics.

Bleacher Report ranked Chicago as the ninth-best team in Major League Baseball after the weekend, writing:

“The White Sox ended up stuck in the middle of two teams heading in polar opposite directions, contributing to both the nine-game winning streak of the Red Sox and the nine-game losing streak of the Athletics. Though he didn’t homer, Munetaka Murakami returned for the latter, more encouraging series, which began with a 14-1 win fueled by Tristan Peters hitting for the cycle.

“If you’ve been waiting for this team to fade, here’s hoping you haven’t been holding your breath.”

Indeed, every time it has appeared that the White Sox were going to come down to earth, they have been able to bounced back. Now with Munetaka Murakami back, their offense is even more dangerous.

If they are able to land a stellar pitcher or two at the MLB trade deadline, they could be a force in the AL for the rest of the season.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• Grading the 5 White Sox selections on Day 1 of the 2026 MLB Draft
• White Sox select Roch Cholowsky with 1st pick in 2026 MLB Draft
• Tristan Peters named to AL All-Star roster 1 day after hitting for the cycle

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Ahead of the 2025 NFL season, the Chicago Bears sent a fourth-round pick to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for Joe Thuney. Not long after the trade, Chicago signed the three-time All-Pro guard to a two-year, $35 million contract extension. This was a clear indication that the Bears were all in on Thuney as they looked to solidify their interior offensive line.

The move immediately paid dividends for Chicago. Thuney emerged as one of the team’s best players last season, providing elite protection for quarterback Caleb Williams. Chicago’s cornerstone QB took his game to new heights in 2025, and there’s no denying that Thuney played a key role in Williams’ success.

Chicago Bears fans call out ESPN’s Joe Thuney ranking

Thuney made history last season by becoming the first winner of the NFL’s inaugural Protector of the Year award. He was selected to the Pro Bowl for a fourth consecutive year and named to the All-Pro first team for a third straight season.

Thuney’s accolades speak for themselves. And this is exactly why Bears fans were not at all pleased after learning about his ranking in ESPN’s latest list of the best guards and centers heading into the 2026 season.

The Bears star fell to fifth behind Tyler Smith, Quenton Nelson, Creed Humphrey and Quinn Meinerz.

 

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ESPN, as well as the NFL executives, coaches and scouts who were involved in the voting, are now facing backlash from Bears fans over their decision to rank Thuney as the fifth-best guard/center in the league.

“Pretty low ranking for the NFL’s first ever Protector of the Year. ” a comment on Instagram read.

“He’s the best OL period, and the best guard of all time. He won the mvp award for OL,” another said.

“Won an award for being the best….bears tax at its finest,” declared a user.

“Literally how bro MINIMUM he should be 2 that is outrageous,” a reaction read.

“Imagine winning the award for best lineman and not being rated the best lineman lmao,” said another.

“These rankings are laughable,” a fan wrote.

Thuney isn’t exactly the type who is solely motivated by his individual accolades. The veteran is a team-first kind of guy, and he knows that the squad’s achievements outweigh his own.

Nevertheless, this should add some extra fire under Thuney as he heads into his second season in Chicago.

Related reading:

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Bears’ Colston Loveland beats out Travis Kelce in ESPN TE rankings

Jaylon Johnson injury update draws strong reactions from Bears fans

Bears star draws ‘perfect’ praise from NFL legend Tom Brady

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Caitlin Clark was back in action for the Indiana Fever on Sunday night. The former WNBA Rookie of the Year sat out for the second time in three games on Thursday against the Phoenix Mercury due to a back injury. Clark shrugged off her back issue for a return against the defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces, on Sunday.

The 24-year-old has been dealing with a back issue for pretty much the entire season. She missed one game in May because of the same injury. On June 24 against the Mercury, Clark tweaked her back after getting fouled on a three-point attempt. She has since been sidelined in three out of her team’s last five games.

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark busts out step-back against A’ja Wilson

Clark was still on a minutes restriction on Sunday as the Fever continues to manage her back injury. However, it did not appear to bother her during the game.

Clark looked great to start the contest, busting out a couple of crossovers to shake reigning WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson. Clark then took a high-arcing shot over the outstretched arm of the 6-foot-4 Aces center. The ball hit the bottom of the net for the Indiana superstar’s first points of the evening.

The Fever posted a clip featuring a new angle of Clark’s eye-catching step-back triple over Wilson, and it looks even better.

this angle of Caitlin Clark’s deep stepback triple pic.twitter.com/i8VgN3ZMxP

— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) July 13, 2026

Clark played her part in Indiana’s 109-75 blowout win over the Aces. She registered 12 points on 5-of-11 shooting, seven rebounds, six assists and one three-pointer in 24 minutes of action.

It was a massive win for the Fever, who have now ended their four-game road stand with a statement victory over the champs.

Related reading:

Fever star Sophie Cunningham reacts to retirement news

Fever coach Stephanie White refuses to address Caitlin Clark development

Sophie Cunningham, Lexie Hull go viral with new bikini photos

Fever coach Stephanie White leaves no doubt about her opinion of Alyssa Thomas

The post New angle of Caitlin Clark’s step-back triple over A’ja Wilson looks even better appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The post Why Ethan Conrad’s promotion is significant for the Chicago Cubs appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham has nothing but praise for WNBA legend and former teammate Diana Taurasi ahead of her jersey retirement.

Cunningham has been one of Taurasi’s closest teammates and friends during their time with the Phoenix Mercury. The current Fever guard gave massive praise to the three-time WNBA champion.

In a recent interview, Cunningham shared her thoughts on Taurasi’s upcoming jersey retirement ceremony with the Phoenix on Aug. 16.

“I just love her man, you know there’s never going to be another Diana Taurasi ever,” Cunningham said. “I think she is the one who taught me how to be an ultimate pro; I just think that she is gold down to the core. What she did for our game and what she’s gonna continue to do for our game is awesome.”

The eighth-year player out of Missouri also stated that she’s glad Taurasi has been receiving her well-deserved opportunities and acknowledgments even after her professional career.

“I love seeing her in commercials and her getting her flowers, the money opportunities that she’s been having,” Cunningham continued. “I’m just proud of her, she deserves every award, every recognition you and possibly think up.”

Sophie Cunningham spoke about Diana Taurasi and their time on the Mercury together.

Cunningham was asked by @HaydenCilley if she’ll be there when Taurasi’s number is retired on Aug. 16, and she said she’ll likely be playing, but “if mom pulls you out of school, you go.” pic.twitter.com/dDo8BNHkap

— Jenna Ortiz (@jennarortiz) July 10, 2026

Sophie Cunningham willing to skip game with the Fever to attend Diana Taurasi’s jersey retirement 

During the same interview, Cunningham was also asked whether she would be in attendance for Taurasi’s jersey retirement ceremony next month.

The Fever have a game scheduled against the Atlanta Dream on the same day, but Cunningham made it clear that if Taurasi wants her there, she will do what she can to witness the special moment.

“I’ll probably be playing,” she said. “But if my mom wants me to call in sick, then yeah, I’ll be there.”

Cunningham and Taurasi played for six seasons together in the Mercury uniform. Their relationship has grown stronger over the years.

Related reading:

WNBA fans defend Alyssa Thomas after latest Fever incident

Stephanie White’s behavior after Fever game draws attention

Caitlin Clark had just one word for Kelsey Mitchell after Fever game

Sophie Cunningham turns heads with major career announcement

The post Fever star Sophie Cunningham reacts to retirement news appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Indiana Fever guard Cunningham decided to take another side quest. She made a stunning appearance in the co-main event of UFC 329 on Saturday in Las Vegas.

Right before the lightweight match between ranked contenders Paddy Pimblett and Benoit Saint Denis, Cunningham served as a ring girl.

This surprised everyone, as she added another unexpected public appearance, crossing over to combat sports. Hater Report’s X account posted the video of the 6-foot-1 guard during the event.

The former Missouri standout was wearing a black, form-fitting tank top and shorts. She was barefoot as she held up the round card.

Sophie Cunningham is a ring girl at UFC 329! pic.twitter.com/aJ1rOUWgoa

— Hater Report (@HaterReport) July 12, 2026

Cunningham was among the fans who witnessed Pimblett’s incredible performance, as he submitted Saint Denis in just 52 seconds in the opening round.

“The Baddy” locked in an early D’Arce choke against “God of War,” effectively countering the Frenchman’s takedown attempt. Pimblett locked in the submission technique tight until Saint Denis was unconscious.

Fans react to Sophie Cunningham’s octagon appearance 

Although it was a lighthearted crossover for Cunningham, fans seem to have mixed reactions to her cameo on the biggest stage in professional MMA.

Cunningham received both positive and negative reactions to her latest move. 

“I guess she’s gonna keep milking that finger point thing” a fan said.

“Sophie’s popularity has spread across the galaxy!” read a comment.

“Sorry, but is she supposed to be impressive?” a user stated.

“@sophaller you are an absolute legend! That was hilarious!” another fan added.

“Middest of the mid tbh,” claimed a user.

“Sophie Cunningham keeps finding ways to surprise people. Going from the WNBA spotlight to being a ring girl at UFC 329 definitely wasn’t on my bingo card this year. ” a user pointed out.

“You ain’t that pretty for all that,” another fan proclaimed.

The former second-round draft pick is maximizing her time in Las Vegas. The Fever are scheduled to face the Las Vegas Aces on Sunday at the Michelob ULTRA Arena to end their four-game road trip.

Related reading:

WNBA fans defend Alyssa Thomas after latest Fever incident

Stephanie White’s behavior after Fever game draws attention

Caitlin Clark had just one word for Kelsey Mitchell after Fever game

Sophie Cunningham turns heads with major career announcement

The post Sophie Cunningham draws mixed reactions over UFC move appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears will need Joe Thuney to have another All-Pro season after center Drew Dalman retired in the offseason.

The Bears interior offensive line was finally stellar last year with Dalman, Thuney, and Jonah Jackson. Garrett Bradbury and Logan Jones will compete for the starting center job, but there is no doubt Thuney is expected to be the best player on the offensive line in 2026.

Thuney, 33, won NFL protector of the year in 2025. The Bears brought him in via a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs last year to protect Caleb Williams. He led all league guards in pass block win rate, but he’s still a force as a run blocker.

In a survey conducted by Jeremy Fowler of ESPN of NFL executives, scouts, and coaches, Thuney is ranked at the No. 5 best interior offensive lineman in the league.

More News: Bears TE Colston Loveland disrespected in NFL via latest ranking

Chicago Bears’ Joe Thuney overcoming aging

More News: Chicago Bears’ Darnell Wright criticized by NFL coach

An NFL scout noted that he’s losing lateral quickness, which could hurt his run blocking ability in the future, but his fundamentals are so strong that he’s been able to overcome a weakness that’s unavoidable with aging.

“He’s losing a little lateral quickness, but he’s so technically sound and tough and sturdy and stronger than you’d think that it doesn’t really matter,” the exec said. “He was awesome last year.”

Thuney was the third best guard at a run block win rate of 77 percent last season.

Eventually, Thuney’s skills will decline as he reaches his mid-30s, but he should have more to give the Bears over the next few years as they chase a Super Bowl, something he’s won four times during his NFL career with the New England Patriots and Chiefs.

One NFL coach told Fowler that Thuney kicked their ass last season.

In 2025, Thuney signed a two-year contract extension with the Bears that will keep him in Chicago through the 2027 season, so the offense will benefit from having the veteran for at least two more seasons.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White did not want to talk about the Congress’ letter to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert about Caitlin Clark.

White declined to comment on the letter from Congress highlighting the level of physicality directed at the Fever superstar.

On Tuesday, a congressional letter signed by 11 members of the U.S. Congress was released to address the excessive physical contact against Clark. This specifically discussed Indiana’s game against the Phoenix Mercury on June 24. In that contest, Clark infamously took a fist to the neck from Alyssa Thomas.

But the Fever’s head tactician has shut down discussions during her recent media availability. She reiterated that they are not associated with any of the people who issued the letter.

“Our team made a statement yesterday, so you can find that statement,” White said. “… Again, that’s not something we can control. We’re not affiliated with those groups, and we try to keep the main thing, the main thing, and focus on the things that we can control.” 

Fever head coach Stephanie White refused to address the letter sent by several members of Congress to WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert about the treatment of Caitlin Clark by other players and whether it’s racially motivated.

“We’re not affiliated with any of those groups.” pic.twitter.com/4vuldY2klH

— Dan Zaksheske (@RealDanZak) July 10, 2026

Indiana Fever organization stands firm with their take on player safety

Following the release of the congressional letter, Indiana also issued its official statement. The team stated that they are not affiliated with the congressional group.

“Our organization nor Caitlin have had any interaction with anyone in this congressional group and we were unaware of their letter,” a part of the statement read.  

The franchise also stated that they continue to strongly promote player safety. This is applicable not only for their own players but throughout the entire league.

“We have been clear in our public comments and in our ongoing dialogue with the League about the priority of player safety,” the statement read. “Our players and our fans know where we stand on those issues and we will continue to stick up for our team and a standard of excellence across the league.”

This conversation is still ongoing, and the WNBA hopes to improve in this aspect as the league continues to grow exponentially.

Related reading:

WNBA fans defend Alyssa Thomas after latest Fever incident

Stephanie White’s behavior after Fever game draws attention

Caitlin Clark had just one word for Kelsey Mitchell after Fever game

Sophie Cunningham turns heads with major career announcement

The post Fever coach Stephanie White refuses to address Caitlin Clark development appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox had five selections during day one of the 2026 MLB Draft. This includes four selections in the top 100, featuring No.1 overall, No. 34, which was a Competitive Balance Round-A pick recently acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates in the Jacob Gonzalez trade, No.41, and No.77. Their lone selection outside of the top 100 came in the fourth round, at No.105.

Later today, July 12, the remaining rounds in MLB’s draft, rounds 5-20, will take place. However, here we evaluate each of the five selections from day one.

Grading the Chicago White Sox five day one 2026 MLB Draft selections

No.1 (Round 1): Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA

To little surprise, Roch Cholowsky was taken first overall by the White Sox. Cholowsky is viewed as a generational five tool talent, evidenced by his standout performances across three years at UCLA. Over his college career, he posted a 1.072 OPS, walked (105) more times than he struck out (100), and has two 20+ home runs seasons. This, combined with the fact he is expected to sign under the $11,350,600 slot value gives this selection an A+ grade.

No. 34 (Comp Balance A): Landon Thome, INF, Nazareth Academy

Landon Thome is the son of Hall of Famer Jim Thome, who spent the 2006-2009 seasons as a member of the White Sox. Although MLB Pipeline gifts Thome a 55 grade power, something his father was known for as he hit 612 home runs throughout his career, the left-handed hitter had just seven home runs his senior season. Rather, Thome stole 49 bases last High School season, so how his speed translates to the professional game will be worth monitoring. ESPN had Thome ranked No.67 on their pre-draft rankings, and he’ll likely sign close to slot value, giving this selection an overall grade of an A-, especially given he comes from a baseball family.

No. 41 (Round 2): Cole Prosek, INF, Magnolia Heights HS

Cole Prosek is the third infielder selected by the White Sox to begin the 2026 MLB Draft. The Mississippi standout was ranked No.27 on MLB Pipeline’s pre-draft rankings. His hit tool is his calling card, along with power, as he hit 18 home runs over 41 games his senior year at Mangolia Heights. This school also produced Cooper Pratt, who recently made his MLB Debut with the Milwaukee Brewers. Getting Porsek at No.41 could be a major steal for Chicago, giving this pick an A grade.

No. 77 (Round 3): Joey Volchko, P, Georgia

After having ERA’s in the five’s and sixes through two years at Standford, right-hander Joey Volchko found more success in 2026 at Georgia. Over 18 starts he posted a 3.68 ERA and struck out 119 batters over 95 innings pitched. MLB Pipeline gave him a 60-grade fastball and slider, giving him two plus pitches to work with. This pick isn’t a home run, but there are good traits for Chicago to work with. This pick earns a B – for grade.

No. 105 (Round 4): Eric Segura, P, Oregon State

Eric Seguara is a sinker baller from Oregon State who throws a ton of strikes. The right-hander walked just 27 batters in 2026, posting 3.3 B:9 ratio. He has some swing and miss in his game. Segura struck out 82 batters over 73 innings this year, while posting a nice 2.22 ERA. Chicago figures to have a strong infield for years to come, thus making Segura a good fit in this organization. We give this a grade of a B for the White Sox.

The post Grading the White Sox 5 day 1 2026 MLB Draft selections appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Going into the predraft process for the 2026 NBA Draft, the consensus was that it is a strong draft at the top. With four potential star players available, the Chicago Bulls would have the chance to get their rebuild off to the right start.

North Carolina’s Caleb Wilson was the consensus pick for the Bulls throughout the predraft process and in the end, that wound up being the selection. Wilson has already made a good first impression with the team, He scored 35 points in his NBA  Summer League debut on Friday but it’s the mentality he brings as well that is now getting a lot of attention.

On Sunday, the Bulls released the predraft interview with Wilson and it should fire up fans.

Caleb Wilson was ready to lead the Bulls early

In the video released by the Bulls, they show part of Wilson’s interview with the team. The talented forward out of North Carolina was confident in his ability to be a leader for the Bulls and turn this franchise around.

“I feel like I’m your guy, honestly,” Wilson said when asked if he was capable of leading this team. “I would love to play in Chicago. I’m a DAWG.”

Caleb Wilson was asked in his Pre-Draft interview is he's prepared to lead this team.

"I feel like I'm your guy, honestly.
I would love to play in Chicago.
I'm a DAWG."

All-Access with @CalebWilson2025: pic.twitter.com/9rs162e1en

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) July 12, 2026

Man, that’s awesome.

It’s clear Wilson knows what it takes to have a winning mentality and bring that to a team. He was the leader for North Carolina right away and there was a big difference in the program when he was on the court compared to when he was hurt. Now, we are sitting here just a month into his Bulls tenure, and that confidence is already showing.

While Wilson is off to a good start in his Summer League debut, he needs to build on it. There are more Summer League games and then preseason games coming for Wilson. They mark another opportunity to show why he can be the best player in the class.

The post Caleb Wilson’s predraft interview shows confidence in leading Chicago Bulls appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs would have every justification for curling up in a ball and bringing out the infamous, but oddly comforting “wait ‘til next year” line.

More News: Chicago Cubs 2026 draft picks lean on pitching and power

They’re currently missing four of the five starters projected to make up their rotation (Cade Horton, Edward Cabrera, Justin Steele, Jameson Taillon), plus a fourth starter in Ben Brown, who had surprisingly emerged as the team’s best rotation piece. They’re currently missing closer Daniel Palencia and setup man Hoby Milner, along with several other bullpen arms. Last year’s ace Matthew Boyd and veteran reliever Phil Maton also have a pair of IL stints apiece this season.

The Cubs, though, have fought the downward pull of destiny and have actually kept themselves a playoff-level team despite the pitching injuries and the presence of several emergency fill-in arms throughout the staff.

Cubs reasons for optimism

More News: Chicago Cubs top trade target may be off the table

But there’s actually some reason to feel a bit of optimism as the team heads into the All-Star break.

One reason is Javier Assad, the perpetually overlooked righty who’s been steadily effective throughout his five-year run with the Cubs. On Saturday, the 28-year-old gave the team 5 innings, allowing 2 earned runs in his start against the Cincinnati Reds. Since being plugged into the rotation, he’s posted a 2.39 ERA for a team desperate to find starting pitching help.

“It’s been a time of need for us in the rotation. When you have injuries and you bring guys up to add to your rotation, he has more than delivered from that role,” manager Craig Counsell told reporters before Saturday’s game. “That’s been a really positive development in the midst of a lot of injuries.

“He has taken advantage of an opportunity and given us strong innings. Whether it’s been starting or the bullpen, he’s given us very strong innings.”

The Cubs are also waiting on the return of Taillon, who looked good pitching 4.2 scoreless innings in what will be his last minor league rehab outing before rejoining the big league squad after the break.

Meanwhile, the returns of Palencia, Milner, and Cabrera are all slated for sometime in early August.

And, speaking of early August, there’s the August 3 MLB trade deadline, where the Cubs are expected to be aggressive in pursuing pitching reinforcements.

Also, a reality check

So, yeah, there’s reason to feel at least somewhat good about where the Cubs pitching is headed after the break, at least relatively speaking when stacked up against where it was just a week or two ago. The team will still be running at a pitching deficit, though. They’ll still be missing several key components of the staff.

“We’re not going to come back from the break and be finished with the injuries,” Counsell asserted to media on Friday. “We’ve still got injury issues…Every team has some injuries, but to get back to medium strength, we’re still at a pretty big deficit after the break.”

Still, after this run of horrible luck, Cubs fans will take every bright spot they can find.

The post Chicago Cubs actually have cause for pitching optimism heading into All-Star break appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Cubs came into the opening day of the 2026 Draft with a stated desire to lean into pitching as the organization has come under scrutiny for its lack of homegrown depth in that regard.

Last year’s draft picks Dominick Reid (third round) and Kaleb Wing (fourth round) have accounted well for themselves in the organization, but there’s need for much more. This year, the team drafted three pitchers among their first five picks, including first round selection Cade Townsend.

More News: Chicago Cubs top trade target may be off the table

“We’re really pleased with the outcome,” Cubs vice president of scouting Dan Kantrovitz told MLB.com. “I think going in, we felt it was going to be slightly skewed towards more pitchers than hitters. I wasn’t sure if that was going to be one hitter or two hitters, but at the end of the day, when a guy like Caden Sorrell falls to us, we weren’t going to miss the opportunity to grab him.

“With getting Cade [Townsend] up top, I think that really solidified our Draft strategy, and then allowed us to be a little bit flexible with two impact bats right after that.”

Here’s a look at who the Cubs selected in the first day of the draft:

Rd: 1, Pick: 23 – Cade Townsend, RHP – Mississippi

More News: Chicago Cubs: Insider names young Cub most likely to be traded at deadline

Cubs fans may flinch over Townsend’s shoulder issues this season at Ole Miss and some have expressed concern over his relatively small frame (6-foot1, 185 lbs.), but Townsend’s got phenomenal stuff and, maybe most importantly, profiles as a mature and fiery pitcher who should jet through the organization and be able to contribute to the major league team sooner rather than later.

Per Jordan Bastian of MLB.com:

“The Cubs are drawn to pitchers who feature plus spin and velocity, and the 21-year-old Townsend (No. 35 on Pipeline’s Top 250 Draft prospects list) fits that description. While the right-hander sits around 94-97 mph with his fastball, his speciality is making a baseball dance. Townsend has three plus pitches (slider, cutter and curve), and mixed in a changeup…Townsend is an athletic pitcher with the kind of foundation the Cubs will love to get into their lab and see how they can maximize all that he offers.”

Rd: 2, Pick: 62 – Caden Sorrell, OF – Texas A&M

The 21-year-old has tremendous offensive upside and was considered a bit of a steal at no. 62. He profiles as a corner outfielder who, like previous top prospect Owen Caissie, has a propensity to whiff. Still, Sorrell will be added to the outfield mix as a future replacement for Ian Happ and/or Seiya Suzuki, who are both eligible for free agency at the end of this season.

Per Nick Deeds of Cubbies Crib:

“Sorrell has absolutely torn the cover off the ball in the SEC this year, slashing an utterly absurd .341/.434/.743 with 20 doubles and 23 homers in just 56 games. MLB Pipeline ranked Sorrell as the #33 player in this year’s draft, so landing him at 62nd overall was something of a steal. Sorrell’s claim to fame is his exciting power potential, and it’s surely no coincidence that Chicago deigned to select a player with this profile not long after shipping Owen Caissie to Miami in the Edward Cabrera trade.”

Rd: 2, Pick: 75 – Myles Bailey, 1B – Florida State

Per Danny Barrand, pro evaluator for Prospects Live and contributor to Over-Slot Baseball:

“Florida State 1B Myles Bailey is quite polarizing. He whiffs an unbelievable amount for a notable draft prospect. But he has a 114.3 MPH 90th EV and 23.9° HH LA. May be some of the freakiest power ability on the planet? Hard profile to evaluate, but the homer tape is so fun.”

Rd: 3, Pick: 98 – Carson Jasa, RHP – Nebraska

The 21-year-old Jasa has a crazy curveball that he’s learned to control significantly better than in his ultra-wild freshman year with the Cornhuskers. The feeling is that he may be destined for a closer role as he works his way to the majors, but some weight training and conditioning work on the tall, lanky righty could also see him get in the mix for a starter gig.

Per Jake Misener of Cubbies Crib:

“There are shutdown pitches – and then there’s Carson Jasa’s curveball. The Chicago Cubs selected the big right-hander out of Nebraska…hoping to unlock more on his mid-90s fastball and ride his knee-buckling breaking ball.

Jasa broke out in a big way this year, going 10-2 with 117 strikeouts in just 87 2/3 innings of work, holding opponents to a .210 average. But against his curveball, they went a ridiculous 6-for-111 (.054) – evidence that it is truly an elite put-away pitch. His future, though, will be determined by what the Cubs can help him do with his four-seamer.”

Rd: 4, Pick: 126 – Dylan Marionneaux, RHP – Northwestern State

The biggest unknown of the Cubs’ picks on Saturday, the 21-year-old was targeted after the team met with him personally and saw what he could do, specifically as a high-spin pitcher.

Per Jordan Bastian of MLB.com:

“The Cubs were able to have Marionneaux throw a bullpen during a workout and loved his ability to spin the baseball. The righty showed off a cutter that intrigued Chicago’s pitching group. This past season, Marionneaux had a 3.51 ERA with 81 strikeouts and 18 walks in 84 2/3 innings. The walk rate (1.9 per nine innings) was a noticeable drop from both ’25 (4.5) and ’24 (5.1).”

The post Chicago Cubs 2026 draft picks lean on pitching and power appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Indiana Fever stars Sophie Cunningham and Lexie Hull turned heads with their bikini pictures at the Encore Beach Club.

Cunningham and Hull were recently spotted partying at the famed Encore Beach Club in Las Vegas. Their outfits quickly turned heads as their eye-catching photos made the rounds on social media.

The post from a fan account went viral on X, garnering close to 400,000 views as of this writing. Cunningham was wearing a pink-and-white checkered string bikini, while Hull rocked a solid black bikini.

Both Indiana players are key pieces in the team’s current WNBA campaign, with Cunningham averaging 9.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. On the other hand, Hull is posting 6.4 points and 3.5 rebounds per game.

The team currently sits at the top of the Eastern Conference with a 13-9 record and is only 3.5 games behind the league leaders, the Las Vegas Aces.

Soph, Lex, and Ty at Encore Beach Club pic.twitter.com/eWnSTXEtNA

— KAYLA (@kbfever93) July 11, 2026

Indiana Fever fans react to Sophie Cunningham and Lexie Hull’s bikini photos

Fans couldn’t help but admire the athletic figure of both basketball stars in their standard two-piece bikinis. They made their feelings known in the comments section of the post. 

“Beach babes are enjoying Vegas ,” a fan said.

“,” read a comment.

“I shoulda went to ebc today ,” a user posted.

“Dos Leches tag team champs in Vegas,” another fan reacted.

“tres leches replaced cc with ty lol,” pointed out a user.

“Ive always said this but lexie hull is the prettiest girl in the league idc,” declared a viewer.

The popularity of Cunningham and Hull has reached outside the hardwood. This is especially true for Cunningham, who recently blew up online with her finger-pointing meme.

Meanwhile, Hull has been receiving multiple brand deals, and she recently added Amazon Fashion to her portfolio as a brand ambassador.

The Fever are gearing up for their marquee matchup against the Aces on Sunday at the Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas.

Related reading:

WNBA fans defend Alyssa Thomas after latest Fever incident

Stephanie White’s behavior after Fever game draws attention

Caitlin Clark had just one word for Kelsey Mitchell after Fever game

Sophie Cunningham turns heads with major career announcement

The post Sophie Cunningham, Lexie Hull go viral with new bikini photos appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Everyone knows that the Chicago Cubs need starting pitching, and they are expected to add at least one more arm before the MLB trade deadline.

The Cubs have already swung a trade to acquire David Peterson from the New York Mets, but that was really just an ancillary move. Larger, more significant trades are expected, especially if Chicago wants to have any chance of making a deep playoff run.

But where will the Cubs turn?

Options are expected to be limited between now and Aug. 3 with so many teams still in postseason contention. For example, many anticipate that the Detroit Tigers will now hold on to impending free agent Tarik Skubal after working their way back into the playoff picture.

Patrick Mooney of The Athletic has outlined some potential scenarios for Chicago, and one avenue he mentioned is particularly intriguing.

Chicago Cubs could trade for a young pitcher

The general expectation is that the Cubs will attempt to land an experienced veteran for their rotation, such as Michael Wacha. But Mooney actually thinks Chicago could go in a different direction and bring in some young talent instead.

“The Cubs could trade for a young pitcher and develop new opportunities, depending on the circumstances, the way Ben Brown excelled as a high-leverage reliever and a top-line starter before his recent neck injury,” Mooney wrote. “The club might make multiple moves for pitching, increasing overall depth, limiting exposure in different areas and creating advantages with particular matchups.”

Essentially, Chicago would be trading for young, cost-controlled talent that it can grow with moving forward while also helping the team in the present.

Of course, finding such pitchers midseason will be a trying task. Most ballclubs, contending or not, are typically not prepared to surrender young pitching under team control for the foreseeable future. If the Cubs do pursue such a route, they may have to be prepared to pay up.

There may be some scenarios where Chicago could pluck a struggling young pitcher from another club to see if it can make it work with him in the Windy City. Or, the Cubs could try and find a team with a pitching surplus that is in need of bats and then move one of their many young hitters in exchange for a hurler.

We’ll see what Chicago does in the coming weeks.

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