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Scrappers’ Mason Schmidt enjoying whirlwind year

NILES — In all likelihood, Mason Schmidt will hold the distinction of being the youngest player on the 2026 Mahoning Valley Scrappers’ complete roster. The Somerset, Wisconsin native, who turned 18 last month, may also very well hold the distinction of being with the Scrappers for a shorter length of time than any other player this summer. Such is the life of a teenager transitioning from high school to an uncertain future. Of course, in Schmidt’s case, the uncertainty comes with benefits. The way Schmidt sees things, the remainder of 2026 is a win-win scenario regardless ...

Phantoms’ Malachi McKinnon hopeful for a ‘big step’

Going into last season, Youngstown Phantoms forward Malachi McKinnon was billed as one of the hot newcomers to watch. It’s safe to say McKinnon lived up to expectations, scoring 50 points (25 goals, 25 assists) in his first full USHL season and finishing fifth on the Phantoms in ...

Rookie Cooper Ingle's blunder costs Guardians in loss to Rangers

CLEVELAND — Rookies are prone to mistakes. Cooper Ingle made a big one he may never forget. Cleveland’s left fielder lost track of the number of outs in the seventh inning and threw the ball into the stands, allowing the Texas Rangers to score the go-ahead run in a 4-2 victory over the ...

LeBron James leaving Lakers after 8 years

LeBron James is leaving the Los Angeles Lakers, which means another decision awaits. A mere 16 years after his first famed “decision” — the one that saw him leave Cleveland for Miami — James is getting ready to change uniforms once again. He has told the Lakers that his eight-year run ...

Scrappers hold off first-place Thunder, win 6-4

NILES — Just as the Mahoning Valley entered its first official heat wave of the summer, the Mahoning Valley Scrappers played host to the hottest team in the MLB Draft League. The Trenton Thunder, who have owned first place in the league standings since the start of the season, played the Scrappers on Tuesday in the first game of a brief two-game series at 717 Credit Union Field. The Scrappers at least temporarily cooled down Trenton with a 6-4 win. The Scrappers quieted the Thunder from the start. Ethan Lindor walked to start the bottom of the first inning. Lindor stole second, ...

Pirates shut down by Cristopher Sanchez, lose 8-0 to Phillies

PHILADELPHIA — Cristopher Sanchez returned to form after a couple of shaky outings, allowing only three hits in seven innings as the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 8-0 on Tuesday night. Sanchez (10-3) struck out nine and walked only two in becoming the first pitcher this ...