Sports

Messi vs Bellingham could be the story when England faces Argentina

National Sports July 15, 2026

ATLANTA — It’s England vs. Argentina in the World Cup semifinals. It’s also Lionel Messi vs. Jude Bellingham. The battle of the two No. 10s could be pivotal to deciding Wednesday’s match in Atlanta. “We know how good Messi is,” England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford said of the Argentina great, whose enduring brilliance has been on show again even at the age of 39. Messi and Bellingham have been inspirational in their teams’ respective runs to the final four. And Wednesday’s match may well be determined by which one has the biggest say on the day. Messi is playing ...

Discussions for major leaguers in 2028 Los Angeles Olympics in early stages

National Sports July 15, 2026

PHILADELPHIA — Discussions for major leaguers to play in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics baseball tournament remain in the early stages, with players used to top hotels wanting to be assured of accommodations. Major League Baseball has envisioned an extended 11-day All-Star break. The last ...

Scheffler resets for the British Open

National Sports July 15, 2026

SOUTHPORT, England — Scottie Scheffler finally heard about the text his PGA Tour friend never sent, a reminder that even the No. 1 player in golf with four majors and more than 20 victories doesn’t know everything. It was a list of things to do on the weekend after missing the ...

Cease, bullpen combine on 3-hitter in AL's 4-0 win, first All-Star shutout since 2013

National Sports July 15, 2026

PHILADELPHIA — Dylan Cease struck out the side in the first inning, combining with 10 relievers on a three-hitter in a show of pitching dominance that led the American League to a 4-0 win over the National League in Tuesday night's All-Star Game. All-Star MVP Cody Bellinger hit a two-run ...

Penguins picked third in Missouri Valley preseason poll

Local Sports July 15, 2026

The 2026-27 FCS college football season is right around the corner, and Tuesday’s Missouri Valley Football Conference media day served as the unofficial start of the season before teams begin fall camp in August. To start the day, the conference released its preseason poll, which saw ...

Stade sees hard work pay off during time with Scrappers

Local Sports July 15, 2026

NILES – Ethan Stade spent just a little over three weeks this summer with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers. Yet in that short time, he gained a great deal of admiration for the baseball fans of the Mahoning Valley. “Man, the vibe inside the stadium is special,” Stade said. “Lots of fans, lots of excitement and energy and the fans go out of their way to make us feel welcome. “It’s a great atmosphere. Even when I wasn’t pitching, I just sat back and took it all in.” In fact, Stade was so appreciative, he left behind a parting gift for the 2,830 fans who were at 7 17 ...