TEMPE, Ariz. — A few days before the Angels’ first full-squad workout of the spring, Manager Ron Washington said he’s eager to get an idea of what type of batting order he’s going to use. One question is looming particularly large for him. “The reality is, I’m looking for a fourth-hole hitter,” he said. “We’ll see where it goes.” Washington said so far he’s determined that his … [Read more...] about Angels’ Ron Washington ‘looking for a fourth-hole hitter’
Ducks midseason report card: Grading the players, coach and front office
For the Ducks, the timing of the NHL’s 4 Nations Face-Off break might have been inopportune given that they just reeled off six wins in seven games overall and amassed 7-1-1 mark in their past nine matches at home. That brought them back to a .500 points percentage for the first time in over two months. It also put them on pace to be the Western Conference’s most-improved team … [Read more...] about Ducks midseason report card: Grading the players, coach and front office
Clippers outlast Jazz, head into All-Star break with overtime win
SALT LAKE CITY — With big nights from two stars and an impressive debut from the newest addition to their roster, the Clippers will take some momentum into the All-Star break. Norman Powell scored a season-high 41 points, James Harden added 32 and Ben Simmons was impressive off the bench to lift the Clippers to a 120-116 overtime victory over the Utah Jazz on Thursday … [Read more...] about Clippers outlast Jazz, head into All-Star break with overtime win
‘Dodger for life’ Clayton Kershaw officially re-signs for 18th year
GLENDALE, Ariz. — The brief era when Dodgers fans had to worry about Clayton Kershaw finishing his Hall of Fame career elsewhere – perhaps closer to his home in Texas – has passed. Kershaw proclaimed himself a “Dodger for life” at the World Series parade last fall and put his name on the dotted line again Thursday, officially re-signing for an 18th season as a Dodger. Kershaw’s … [Read more...] about ‘Dodger for life’ Clayton Kershaw officially re-signs for 18th year
Alexander: It’s spring training, so what’s the best – or worst – that can happen?
The world according to Jim: • Spring training has begun, and with it the traditional outsized optimism. And with it should come this reminder, and maybe all of us baseball scribes should be required to add this phrase the same way they do with ads for financial services products: Past performance is not an indicator of future results. … • This is a particular warning for those … [Read more...] about Alexander: It’s spring training, so what’s the best – or worst – that can happen?