Sunderland's Northern Irish defender #32 Trai Hume (2ndL) celebrates with his teammates after scoring his team's first goal during the friendly football match between RC Lens and AFC Sunderland at the Bollaert-Delelis Stadium in Lens, northern France, on August 8, 2026. (Photo by Sameer Al-DOUMY / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty ImagesDean McDonald saysChris Rigg, take a bow!Rigg looked every inch a Premier League player when he came on, playing a big part in both goals and just looking comfortable whenever he got the ball.The big hitters are backNoah Sadiki, Robin Roefs, Trai Hume, Luke ONien and Reinildo all getting ninety minutes is a huge positive.Most if not all will probably start against Ipswich, and getting ninety minutes two weeks before the start of the season is massive.A mixed bag from Nilson AnguloAngulo struggled for the majority of the time he was on the pitch.He had a couple of decent moments, but something is missing at the moment that he needs to find if its going to work for him this season.Big Dan exits earlyDan Ballard didnt look great when he came off.The change was clearly pre-planned, but whether he picked up a knock or was just knackered remains to be seen.Given his previous struggles, its easy to jump straight to the negative, but hopefully hes OK and can get through ninety minutes next week against Rennes.Malc Dugdale saysMalc Dugdale saysAn away victory over a quality opponentI didnt see the game end to end, but what I did see was very comfortable and solid, and our press was high and very impressive.To win 0-2 in France against a side who are regular Champions League competitors is a great outcome.Yes, its pre-season and the results dont matter, but it was another step up and we took it very well.Strong showings across the boardWith goals for Trai Hume and Wilson Isidor, supported by great showings by Thomas Meunier, Chris Rigg, Granit Xhaka and many others, the only thing that can come from that is positivity.While we havent brought in many signings yet, this did show that our focus on improving the quality to add to what we can achieve is more key to us than large numbers coming in early.I wish Id seen more!I missed parts of the game as were looking at getting a new dog, and while a proper game would not have got in the way, this did.Looks like weve scored a win and a lovely new member of the family is on the way, so all good.Thomas Meuniers disallowed goalI thought Meunier had made the perfect start with a headed goal at the back post, but it seems there was an offside in the build-up.That couldve capped off a great introduction for the big athletic defender, but despite that being chalked off, it shows the offensive contributions we can see this season.Despite the fact that many have aired concern that his age could limit what he could contribute, the early signs against a reputable opponent bode very well for the season.Mark Ryan saysReasons for optimism on the wing?While it wouldnt hurt us to sign a right winger, Trai Hume and Chris Rigg showed why were not a disaster without one.Robin Roefs catches the eyeI like Melker Ellborg, but the difference in confidence with Roefs there is huge.He just exudes calmness.Angulo vs Talbi food for thought?Nilson Angulo made some nice plays, but he was also frustrating.Chemsdine Talbi should be the starter on the left.A slight lack of continuityDifferent stages of returns and fitness knocks keeping the current first eleven from getting more time together is a pain.Max Steel saysA new addition and a solid performance!It was great to get a glimpse of Thomas Meunier.He looked really solid and gives us plenty of options down that right side.Chris Riggs rise continuesRiggs impact on the game was really impressive especially while that right midfield spot is up for grabs.I would certainly have no problems with him starting there at Ipswich.Dan Ballard in the wars once againYou cant help but wince when Ballard goes into a strong challenge or when you see him stretch, coming off with what seemed like a knock.Maybe it adds some emphasis on some business being done at centre-half.A little more needed from Nilson AnguloAngulo does a lot of great work out of possession, but still, Id like to see him add a little bit of flair to his attacking game.Owen Sara saysThomas Meunier makes his markIt was great to see Meunier get a run-out, and he looked a class above.He was a willing runner, keen to get on the overlap, and he looks like a great bit of business.Wilson Isidor gets in on the act!Great to see Isidor grab a goal, which will hopefully give him the confidence to get a new lease of life going into next season.More positivity needed from our wingers?For some reason, our wingers always seem scared to take on a man and often find themselves retaining possession rather than taking some risks with the ball.An injury scare for Dan BallardBallard went off with a knock and Nordi Mukiele was missing with a knock, which are hopefully not too serious.

PHOENIX There were no signs of euphoria Saturday, just sheer relief.There was music briefly in the visiting clubhouse, but then it was quickly turned off.The Los Angeles Dodgers got dressed in a hurry, boarded the team buses, and vowed that it will get better in time.But finally, for the first time this month, and the first time since they angered the baseball world by acquiring two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal at the trade deadline, the Dodgers finally won a game.Their seven-game losing streak, one shy of their longest in nine years, is over.It was hardly pretty and even ugly at times but, hey, a win is a win.The Dodgers won, 2-1 in 10 innings over the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field.Oh man, that was a tough one, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said in his office. It wasnt pretty.The powerful Dodgers, who had been averaging just 3.5 runs a game during their losing streak, needed 38 plate appearances just to score two runs on this night. They got a run on $60-million-a-year man Kyle Tuckers homer in the eighth inning. They survived $23-million-a-year closer Edwin Diazs blown save in the ninth inning. And they got a run on $700-million-man Shohei Ohtanis infield single in the 10th inning.They produced just six hits, one extra-base hit, drew four walks, and somehow won.Offensively, weve just got to get going, Roberts said. You know, its just hard to win games when you know your margin for winning is a razors edge. Its not like guys arent trying, but its a tough way to pitch and have to be perfect.... We got to be better. To score one or two runs to win, its just a hard quality of life, you know? I understand hittings hard. But we got a lot of talent in there.While the Dodgers keep waiting for their powerful offense to awaken, the Dodgers pitching staff, behind ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto, was nearly flawless. Yamamoto pitched 5 scoreless innings. Five relievers pitched 3 shutout innings. And even when Diaz blew his second save in 24 hours, giving up back-to-back triples to open the ninth inning, he settled down and retired the next three batters, leaving Corbin Carroll stranded at third base.That was the first game I saw this year where he had some real intensity, Roberts said. I think you saw that once they scored the run. Man on third base, nobody out, you saw the intensity pick up. The fastball got better. The slider got better. Talking to him after the game, thats how we have to be from the first pitch.The most outward emotion shown the entire night was by the Dodgers seventh pitcher of the night, Jack Dreyer, who picked up his first save of the season. He entered the game in the 10th, struck out Tim Tawa, gave up an infield single that catcher James McCann beat out by a half step, and then induced a double play bouncer from rookie Ryan Waldschmidt.Dreyer stood on the mound and screamed into the night, pounding his fist into his glove.Ive never done that before, Dreyer said. Im typically not like an emotional guy. I think it was the most emotion Ive ever shown. But it was huge from us. Especially, with the seven straight (losses), we need to get back on track.The Dodgers (70-47) can exhale again. Their NL West Division lead is back up to 8 games. Theyre tied with Atlanta for the second-best record in the National League, which comes with a first-round bye. And yes, they know they can survive a losing streak, which has become part of their tradition since the start of their dynasty 13 years ago.Lets see, they endured a 12-24 stretch last season, blew their nine-game division lead ... and then still won the division by three games, and wound up celebrating their second consecutive World Series title.They had an 8-game lead in August 2024, which was slashed to two games ... but they still won the division by five games, and were the last team standing in October.And, there was the 2017 season, when they had a 1-16 meltdown from Aug. 26-Sept. 20 ... only to still win the division by 11 games, and still wind up in the World Series.I remember that vividly, Roberts tells USA TODAY Sports. I didnt think we were going to win a game. And we were zeroing in on the playoffs. We were playing for the best record and I was like, 'I dont think were going to make it.'"Does a winning streak or losing streak mean anything in a pennant race when you already have a postseason berth all but mathematically clinched?Theres no correlation, Roberts says. Thats why a lot of people go, 'Oh, you havent played well going into the postseason, does that mean youre going to play bad? No. 'If you play well, does that mean youre going to win the World Series?' Clearly not.Thats whats great about our game. You can talk about it. You can philosophize on it. Debate it. Theres just not one way. Youve got to go out there and play.Well, certainly it helps the ol confidence by sprinkling in a few victories, and who knows, maybe a few hits, too.The Dodgers also have an influx of help coming on the mound. Skubal will make his home Dodgers debut on Monday. Blake Snell, who has pitched only three innings this season, is scheduled for Tuesday. And Ohtani threw a bullpen session for the first time in 17 days, vowing to return to the mound, likely in September.Ohtani, who last pitched on July 3 because of an inflamed left knee, didnt even tell Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior that he planned to throw. He began throwing plyos in the visitor's bullpen before the game, before playing catch from about 90 feet on the field.Its no secret that Ohtani, 8-2, 1.79 ERA, wants to return to the mound this season to not only claim a spot in the rotation for the postseason, but perhaps to clinch his fifth MVP award while hes at it.I do think that him getting out there and playing catch, Roberts said, is a step in the right direction.So was the Dodgers victory, no matter how much it may have lacked in style points.The losing streak is over.The Dodgers are back to being baseballs Evil Empire.At least for a night.Follow Nightengale on X: @BnightengaleThis article originally appeared on USA TODAY: It wasn't pretty, but the Dodgers' losing streak is finally over. What now?

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts sees more hope than cause for concern from Edwin Diazs second consecutive blown save. With the Dodgers having another one-run lead, Edwin Diaz collapsed. He came in during the bottom of the ninth inning, with LA up 1-0 and needing to win a game to snap a seven-game winning streak. He allowed two triples right off the bat, immediately giving up the lead and putting a runner on third with no outs. The game looked over at that point, but through sheer will and some luck, Diaz got out of the jam, stranding the runner on third. Aug 8, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Diaz (3) throws against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the ninth inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Anna Carrington-Imagn ImagesDiaz got a great defensive play from Max Muncy, who caught a hard-hit lineout to third base, and then he generated a pop-up to keep the speedy Corbin Caroll at bay.Finally, Diaz got the third out of the inning to force the game into extra innings via a strikeout dotted outside the zone. Edwin Diaz pushes it to 99 MPH for a clutch strikeout!He blew his second consecutive save, but at least he kept the Dodgers in the game. For those losing hope in Diaz, the fastball is still encouraging, but the slider is letting him down badly. He is not throwing it enough Nelson Espinal (@nelson__espinal) August 9, 2026This was Diazs second straight blown save. On Friday night, he gave up a walk-off two-run homer on a hanging slider. Roberts expressed his faith in Diaz despite the blown save, but for a while, it looked like a grave mistake. Now, the manager sees some hope for his star closer. Dave Roberts reason for optimism Even though the result for the closer was the same, a blown save, Roberts saw something out of Diaz that he had never seen before. I think for me it was just the intensity. I think that you saw once they scored the run, man on third base, nobody out. You saw the intensity pick up, the stuff pick up, the fastball got better, the slider got better, Roberts said. And even talking to him after the game, thats how we have to be from the first pitch. But that was the first game I saw this year where he had some real intensity.Dodgers manager Dave Roberts (30) looks at the stands prior to a game at Chase Field in Phoenix, on August 8, 2026.Roberts could not explain the exact cause of the struggles, but he made it sound like a combination of factors led to him spiraling. I dont know if its just kind of, you want to be perfect. Youre trying to get your feet under you. Hes been in rehab mode a lot, Roberts added. But I think that this is something I think could be a springboard for the outings to come.While there is some reason to be hopeful, Diaz is still far from the elite closer that the Dodgers signed and need. But if he truly does use this moment as a springboard, there is still plenty of time, another two years after this season plus the postseason, to prove himself worth his record deal.

The fight for a spot in the Little League World Series 2026 begins today, Sunday, Aug. 9, when Pennsylvania's East Side Little League of West Chester faces Delaware's Naamans Little League in Game 2 of the Little League Baseball Mid-Atlantic Region Tournament.The winner will move one step closer to the Little League Baseball World Series 2026, which begins Aug. 19 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Here's how to watch Pennsylvania vs. Delaware, what time the game starts, and the Mid-Atlantic Region bracket and schedule.East Side and Naamans will meet in the second game of the day in Bristol, Connecticut. Maryland champion Berlin Little League and Washington, D.C., champion Capitol Hill Little League open the tournament at 10 a.m. ET on ESPN+, with the winners advancing to the Aug. 11 winner's bracket game. The losers will meet in an elimination game Aug. 10.PA vs DE Little League: When is East Side vs Naamans game?East Side vs Naamans will play at 1 p.m. ET today, Sunday, Aug. 9, in the 2026 Little League Mid-Atlantic Region Tournament held in Bristol, Connecticut.The winner advances in the winner's bracket and moves one step closer to the Little League World Series 2026 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.Where can I watch PA vs Del Little League game today?The Pennsylvania vs. Delaware Little League Baseball game will stream on ESPN+. The remaining Mid-Atlantic Region Tournament games will air on ESPN and ESPN+.Watch Pennsylvania vs. Delaware Little League Baseball on ESPN+How can I follow Little League PA vs Delaware scoreFans can follow the East Side vs. Naamans score live through GameChanger, Little League Baseball's official scoring and statistics partner. GameChanger provides live scores, play-by-play updates and player statistics throughout the tournament.East Side, Naamans Little League World Series region schedulePennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and Washington, D.C., are represented in the 2026 Little League Baseball Mid-Atlantic Region Tournament. This year's field includes East Side (Pennsylvania), Naamans (Delaware), Berlin (Maryland) and Capitol Hill (Washington, DC).Little League Mid-Atlantic Region 2026 scheduleThe Mid-Atlantic Region Tournament runs Aug. 9-14 in Bristol, Connecticut. The winner advances to the Little League World Series 2026.Sunday, Aug. 9Maryland vs. Washington, D.C., 10 a.m. ET (ESPN+)Pennsylvania vs. Delaware, 1 p.m. ET (ESPN+)Monday, Aug. 10Game 3: Losers bracket, 5 p.m. ET (ESPN)Tuesday, Aug. 11Game 4: Winners bracket, 11 a.m. ET (ESPN)Thursday, Aug. 13Game 5, 3 p.m. ET (ESPN)Friday, Aug. 14Mid-Atlantic Championship, 3 p.m. ET (ESPN)Little League Mid-Atlantic Region bracketYou can follow the 2026 Little League Mid-Atlantic Region Tournament matchups, dates and times via the printable bracket below or online.How old are the Little League World Series players? What is 12U?In Little League Baseball, 12U refers to players ages 12 and younger. The Little League Baseball World Series typically features players ages 10 to 12 competing in the Major Division.When is the Little League World Series 2026?The Little League World Series 2026 begins Aug. 19 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The tournament runs through Aug. 30 and features 20 teams from the United States and around the world.The Mid-Atlantic Region champion will earn one of 10 U.S. berths in the tournament.Little League World Series 2026 scheduleThe Little League World Series 2026 begins Aug. 19 and concludes Aug. 30 with the championship game.Wednesday, Aug. 19Latin America vs. Caribbean, 1 p.m. ETSoutheast vs. Northwest, 3 p.m. ETCanada vs. Asia-Pacific, 5 p.m. ETMetro vs. New England, 7 p.m. ETThursday, Aug. 20Australia vs. Mexico, Noon ETGreat Lakes vs. Mountain, 2 p.m. ETCuraao vs. Japan, 4 p.m. ETWest vs. Midwest, 6 p.m. ETFriday, Aug. 21Panama vs. TBA, 1 p.m. ETSouthwest vs. TBA, 3 p.m. ETEurope-Africa vs. TBA, 5 p.m. ETMid-Atlantic vs. TBA, 7 p.m. ETFans can find the complete Little League World Series schedule on Little League's official website.Little League World Series bracketYou can follow the Little League World Series 2026 tournament matchups, dates and times via the printable bracket below or online.Lori Comstock is a New Jersey-based reporter covering trending news with USA TODAY Network's Mid-Atlantic Connect Team.She covers news in the Northeast, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia.Reach her at LComstock@usatodayco.com.This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: PA vs DE Little League World Series 2026 game today; watch East Side

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - APRIL 10: Rick Rizzs Voice of the Seattle Mariners gives a thumbs up to the audience before the unveiling of the Ichiro Suzuki statue before the game against the Houston Astros at T-Mobile Park on April 10, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jack Compton/Getty Images) | Getty ImagesIn a move that surprised no one yet still wrung a fair amount of waterworks out of the assembled crowd and the man himself the Mariners announced that Rick Rizzs will be inducted into the Mariners Hall of Fame next season. Rizzs will be just the twelfth member of the Mariners Hall of Fame, joining fellow broadcaster Dave Niehaus as the only two non-uniformed members of the Mariners HOF (and this is why its important that managers wear uniforms). It was an especially apt announcement as the team celebrated 50 seasons, 41 of which Rizzs has called, albeit non-consecutively. Joining the organization in 1983, Rizzs spent nine years in Seattle as Dave Niehauss broadcast partner before going to Detroit for an opportunity to be the lead broadcaster for the Tigers. Rizzs returned to Seattle in 1995 and has been with the club ever since, taking over as the lead radio voice after the passing of Niehaus prior to the 2011 season. His 41 years of service make him the longest-tenured broadcaster in Mariners history; as John Stanton put it during his speech, for generations of fans, the voice of Rick Rizzs is the voice of the summer.In addition to his work on the field, Rizzs has also been a pillar of the community, jumping in to support Mariners charities while founding his own, the Toys for Kids charity established in 1995. Initially started to give kids in need a special toy during the Christmas season, the charity has expanded to include college scholarships, support unhoused mothers, assist children experiencing challenges with food scarcity, and provide baseball equipment to needy kids who want to play the sport.The team has yet to announce when the ceremony will occur gotta have something fun to look forward to in the off-season or if there will be a statue to echo the one of Niehaus in centerfield (but theres gotta be a statue, right?), but it seems like a safe assumption it will probably be in August, which is when the team tends to do these kinds of things. If youre really intent on making sure you dont have conflicting plans, the Mariners are at home the weekends of August 13th and August 27th, so do with that information what you will.Given the ceremony today where Rizzs gave a heartfelt, tearful speech, managing to make a joke even as he was clearly overcome with emotion you wont want to miss it. The team might be failing in their job to send Rizzs off with an exciting playoff run in his final season, but the fans will have a chance to properly honor the longtime voice of the Mariners. Its especially poignant given that thats something Mariners fans never got a chance to do with Dave Niehaus, whose career was cut short by a heart attack before he had an opportunity to be given the full treatment by the club and the fanbase.

Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesIndiana Fever guard/forward Sophie Cunningham was on the receiving end of a harsh Flagrant 2 foul from Chicago Skys DiJonai Carrington, who then went and attacked her on social media.Carrington was ejected from the game in the first quarter after she intentionally clocked Cunningham, who was going for an open layup.The 28-year-old Sky guard/forward would take to social media during the game from the locker room and made a comment about white privilege, tagging the Indiana Fever.Sophie Cunningham responds to DiJonai Carrington after the Fever gameCunningham spoke about Carringtons comments after the game, highlighting that there was no reason to bring race into this and that the league will likely take care of this situation.Oh yeah, we saw it. I think the league is taking care of that. I mean, this has nothing to do with race. Last year I did the same thing, and I got kicked out, as I deserved to be kicked out. Theres no reason to even play that card.She also discussed the foul itself, admitting she doesnt know where that came from, given the lack of a personal relationship between the pair.From my point of view, I mean clearly I think it was unnecessary. Ive never really spoken to her and have no beef with her. But I guess she has some pent-up stuff. So get your s off. Thats fine. I can take it.Sophie Cunninghams media firestorm continues to follow herCunningham was one of the main reasons that the debate over trans women being included in the WNBA started.Photo by David Berding/Getty ImagesHer opposition to trans inclusion led to protests and media attention that have now led to former NBA role players declaring for the WNBA Draft.Whether Carringtons reasons for fouling Cunningham stem from her political views or it was just an enforcer sending a message early in the game is unclear, but given Carrington;s post-game comments, this is deeper than basketball.The Fever have made their desire to focus on basketball clear, with Cunningham saying the same in recent interviews. But the non-basketball attention they have attracted is likely to follow Cunningham for the foreseeable future.Read more:Caitlin Clarks one-game suspension gets overturned by WNBA after controversial referee decisionWNBA Commissioner addresses Enes Kanter and other former NBA players declaring for the 2027 DraftDave Portnoy calls on Caitlin Clark to quit WNBA after latest controversy and fans agree

Richie Sheerin and Kay Hack are among the NI competitors in the British Transplant Games [Team NI]A man who was diagnosed with a rare bone marrow cancer is among 26 athletes representing Northern Ireland at this year's British Transplant Games in Sheffield.Team NI includes 20 transplant recipients and six living kidney donors competing across a range of sports.Richie Sheerin from Londonderry said hearing the news that he had bone marrow cancer in 2018 was "like the lights being turned off". He underwent multiple stem cell transplants and says cycling became like his "mental medicine" during a difficult time.Sheerin hopes stories like his and that of Coleraine woman Kay Hack, who is also competing at the games, will encourage more conversations about organ and stem cell donation.Team NI includes 20 transplant recipients and six living kidney donors competing across a range of sports [Team NI]The games are taking place from 6-9 August in Sheffield, featuring 26 high-exertion, low-impact sports alongside a programme of social and cultural events.Celebrating more than 45 years, the games are described as a "celebration of life" with the aim of raising awareness of organ donation, encouraging people to register as donors, and supporting transplant recipients in improving their health.Team Manager of Sport Northern Ireland, Kathryn Glover, said she was incredibly proud of all 26 athletes representing Northern Ireland at this years' games. "The resilience, determination and camaraderie of the team captures the true spirit of the games."Each athlete has been through their own courageous transplant journey and without our selfless generous donors, no-one would be on the start line."For athletes like Sheerin and Hack, the event is not only about competition but also about demonstrating what is possible after receiving transplants.Team NI athlete Richie Sheerin says being on his bike gives him an escape [Team NI]Richie Sheerin was diagnosed with a rare bone marrow cancer when he was just 35 and said it was "overwhelming"."It was just like the lights being turned off. It just went dark for a bit until you gather your thoughts and think rationally about how you're going to try and overcome these things."Sheerin said cycling became a vital part of his recovery, both physically and mentally, describing it as his "mental medicine"."Any time I'm on the bike, it gives me an escape away from having to think about potential reoccurrence or illness. It just gets your mind away from it."Sheerin received a stem cell transplant from his brother, who he says has been a huge source of support throughout his recovery.He said having the backing of family and friends is invaluable for anyone facing a serious illness and credited his close support network with helping him through the toughest times."My brother was my donor, and the rest of my family, as well as my wife Lisa back home and my son Aidan, have always been there supporting me. It's been incredible."At this year's Transplant Games, Sheerin is competing in the cycling events like the time trial and the road race. 'Your illness doesn't define you'Also representing Northern Ireland is Coleraine's Kay Hack, who has previously won gold and silver medals at the games. After receiving a stem cell transplant in 2019 for acute myeloid leukaemia she returned to the sports she loved and said serious illness "doesn't define you" or have to end a person's sporting ambitions.Hack said receiving a transplant had changed her life, and that one of the key factors in her recovery was discovering transplant sport.At this year's Transplant Games she'll compete in the cycling time trial and road race, take part in the Donor Run, swim the 200 metres and, for the first time, try her hand at shot put.Hack, who competed as a triathlete before her illness, said she was drawing on years of experience but admitted returning to competition after a transplant had brought new challenges."It is harder after you've come back from illness because you've really got to look after your body a lot more and be very conscious of not overdoing training," she said.[Team NI]She said that although she is now more than five years post transplant, her immune system remains weaker than it was before, meaning she has to be careful not to put her body under too much stress. Over time, however, she has learned both mentally and physically what her body is capable of and how to train safely.Her focus at the games, she said, is simply to give her best performance."I just want to make sure I make the best effort and perform to the best of my abilities."Hack believes the games send a powerful message that serious illness does not have to define someone's future.She said the games show that there is life after serious illness, with both the physical activity and the sense of community playing an important role in people's recovery and wellbeing.Having taken part in the opening ceremony alongside hundreds of transplant recipients, she said it was a reminder of the generosity of donors and their families."Hopefully seeing people taking part in the games will prompt everyone to have that conversation with their family... so that your loved ones know what your wishes are."Dith Mac Gabhann leaves hospital after heart transplant'I gave my husband a kidney for Valentine's Day'Siblings aiming high at British Transplant Games

Trent Alexander-Arnold featured in 35 of Real Madrid's 62 matches in all competitions last season [Getty Images]More than 14 months after leaving Liverpool for Real Madrid, Trent Alexander-Arnold will soon begin his second season with the Spanish club under a third manager in Jose Mourinho.The 27-year-old right-back arrived with huge expectations. When signing him, Real Madrid regarded him as one of the most versatile defenders in the world and one who could influence games through his passing range, crossing ability and experience in managing high-pressure moments.However, his first season was disrupted by injuries, managerial changes and the difficulty of adapting to a new league and environment as he failed to make England's World Cup squad.Now, after encouraging signs during pre-season, Alexander-Arnold will hope to finally establish himself as a key figure in the Spanish capital in the forthcoming campaign.Injuries and inconsistencyAlexander-Arnold made 21 La Liga appearances for Real Madrid in 2025-26 [Getty Images]Real Madrid paid Liverpool a reported 10m euros (8.4m) for Alexander-Arnold, releasing him from his contract on 1 June 2025, a month early.But an eagerly awaited debut campaign never reached the heights many expected.Two separate injuries affected him. A hamstring issue last September sidelined him for seven weeks, while a thigh problem in December kept him out for a further two months.That denied Alexander-Arnold the sustained run of games needed to build momentum and a connection with supporters.Overall, he featured in 35 of Real Madrid's 62 matches across all competitions last season, but was not first choice, starting 27 times as he shared the right-back role with club legend Dani Carvajal.However, the defensive doubts that plagued him throughout his Liverpool career remained part of the conversation in Madrid - even as his quality in possession continued to stand out. He showed glimpses of his undoubted ability, but there was a feeling among some supporters that they had not yet seen enough of Alexander-Arnold to judge his impact.By the end of a season which had Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa in charge of Real as they failed to win a major trophy, he had begun to show signs of his best form - finishing the campaign strongly before thanking supporters for their backing in a message on social media."Madridistas you have welcomed me with open arms." he wrote. "From the first day I arrived you have had my back. It took me a few months to find rhythm and settle in the new environment but I feel completely at home now."I will take a good break and put the work in over the summer. I promise we will bring trophies back to this amazing club next season."'It's intense' - working with MourinhoAlexander-Arnold played 90 minutes against Fiorentina and Leganes in pre-season [Getty Images]As one of only a handful of Real players who did not feature at the World Cup, Alexander-Arnold has enjoyed a full pre-season under new boss Mourinho, who replaced Arbeloa in June for a second spell at the Bernabeu.BBC Sport understands the Portuguese has been impressed by the England international's performances, values and the versatility he brings to the squad.Mourinho views Alexander-Arnold as different from many traditional full-backs because of his ability to move into central areas and contribute to attacks from midfield positions.His passing, crossing, through balls and set-piece delivery remain among the strongest parts of his game.Alexander-Arnold has also spoken positively about the opportunity to work with the ex-Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham manager, describing it as a privilege."I have always admired the coach," he said. "I've played against him a couple of times, and it's a pleasure to work with him and his team."It's intense. The principles and the level of demand are very high, so I'm looking forward to seeing how, the more we get to know each other, the more we learn and the more he can teach us."We're all willing and eager to learn and improve. I'm sure he'll teach us many things and help us win trophies this year."Crucial season to comeReal Madrid signed Netherlands full-back Denzel Dumfries on a four-year deal [Getty Images]Competition for places is nothing new at Real Madrid, where virtually every position is contested by world-class players. While Carvajal has left after his contract expired, the arrival of Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan will maintain the challenge Alexander-Arnold faces for a starting place.The Netherlands international, 30, offers physicality, athleticism and defensive solidity.However, during their recent 2-2 friendly draw with Fiorentina, Mourinho chose to start both players - Alexander-Arnold operating at right-back, while Dumfries played further forward on the same side.Alexander-Arnold also took responsibility for set-pieces and moved into midfield areas during build-up play, highlighting the tactical flexibility Mourinho may want from him.A crucial season aheadThe increased competition may also provide the motivation for Alexander-Arnold to rediscover the form that made him one of Liverpool's most influential players during a period where the Reds lifted the Premier League, Champions League and Club World Cup.Consistency will be the key for him as Mourinho looks to shape a squad capable of challenging for domestic and European success again. For Alexander-Arnold, this season will also represent a great chance to establish himself at the club and force his way back into Thomas Tuchel's England plans.Follow your club with BBC SportListen to the latest Football Daily podcastGet football news sent straight to your phone

The Miami Marlins have seen legends come and go throughout their unique 33-year history.Some started their careers in Miami but were swiftly sent away to become superstars elsewhere.Only one player can be considered a franchise staple, one who could play most if not the entirety of his career with the franchise.Sandy Alcantara.The Marlins acquired Alcantara leading up to the 2018 season in a trade for one of their best hitters the year prior. He has since become Miamis only Cy Young Award winner (2022) and the franchise record holder in strikeouts, quality starts, wins at loanDepot park, and now innings pitched.I don't know how many more records they have, Alcantara joked during his postgame press conference after the Marlins defeated the Los Angeles Angels 7-0 on Saturday.2026 has been a good year for Ricky Nolasco, who started his 12-year playing career with the Marlins and ironically ended it with the Angels. On one hand, Marlins fans have been repeatedly reminded of his impact on the team. On the other hand, it was those very records that Alcantara broke throughout the season.The innings-pitched record is a special one for Alcantara for several reasons. The main reason is that it is a record of time and faith. Throughout the past two seasons, rumors and speculation swirled around the possibility of the Marlins trading Alcantara for a maximum package of prospects.Especially this season as he has lived up to Peter Bendixs Opening Day prediction of 2026 being Alcantaras (3.68 ERA, 156.2 IP, 120 SO) best season it was practically expected that Alcantara would be pitching for another team by now. The Marlins said repeatedly through their pregame broadcast crew that Sandy was not for sale, but sometimes that wasnt enough.The franchises innings pitched record could only be broken by Alcantara through the faith that the Marlins had in him and the desire to have him not only remain as the ace of the staff while coming off Tommy John surgery, but also lead the latest rebuild that has Miami in playoff contention.I'm glad to have done it, everything here, because I feel very happy and grateful for the opportunity that this team gave to me since I came in 2018, said Alcantara.This record is also his calling card. Alcantara is known as El Caballo (Spanish for horse) for a reason. He is durable in a landscape where starting pitchers are typically pulled after five innings. Alcantara is leading the National League in innings pitched and has led in that category in 2022, the year he won the Cy Young for posting a 2.28 ERA in 228.2 innings.Of all the franchise records now in Alcantaras possession, the innings pitched record may be the one that will not be broken.While this is the final year of Alcantaras five-year, $56M extension, there is still a 2027 team option that the Marlins would be foolish enough not to pick up. That, including the 2024 season he missed due to injury, would make it 10 years with the Marlins. The only other player in Marlins history to play 10 years with the club is Luis Castillo, who broke into the big leagues in 1996.We are also approaching 10 years of Marlins baseball under the ownership of Bruce Sherman and his group of investors. Front offices have come and gone since 2018 but the one constant is Alcantara.When he eventually moves on, there may not be another Marlins pitcher who would even be given the chance to go deep into games as Alcantara.

Kelsey Mitchell scored 27 points in the Indiana Fever's 90-86 win over the Chicago Sky on Saturday at the United Center, her 16th consecutive game of at least 20 points and the longest single-season run in WNBA history.A'ja Wilson previously held the single-season record at 15. Mitchell matched that record Thursday with 28 points in Indiana's 86-84 loss to Las Vegas.Wilson maintains the record with 20 consecutive wins, a streak that covered the 2023 and 2024 seasons.Mitchell ended Saturday's game with a shooting 11-of-22 from the field and 3-of-9 from three-point range.She successfully made both free throws she took. Additionally, she grabbed 5 rebounds and added 2 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block.She was the top scorer on the court, with no other player from either team surpassing her.In the teams' June matchup, Chicago kept Mitchell below 20 points, as she finished with 19 on 7-of-17 shooting.Mitchell's scoring streak kept growing as she surpassed various milestones. On July 18, in a 108-88 victory against the New York Liberty at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, she scored 33 points, marking her 10th consecutive game with at least 20 pointsthe ninth-longest streak in league history.This also extended her streak to 41 consecutive games with double-digit points, a franchise record, and the 23rd-longest overall streak in league history. Additionally,it was her fourth 30-point game of the season, tying the Indiana single-season record set by Caitlin Clark in 2024 and by Mitchell herself in 2025.Last season, it took her 35 games to reach four 30-point games.The 33 points that night were her 128th career game of at least 20 points, moving her past Candace Parker for 12th on the league's all-time list. Mitchell had played 303 games at that point.Her double-figure scoring streak reached 47 games on Saturday.Mitchell averaged a career-high 20.2 points in 2025 along with 3.4 assists and 1.8 rebounds, and she appeared in all 44 regular-season games and all eight postseason games. She and Wilson were named the league's Players of the Month for July.Clark scored 26 points with 4 rebounds and 11 assists against the Sky. She went 5-of-6 from 3-point range. Aliyah Boston tallied 13 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Makayla Timpson added 10 points. Sophie Cunningham contributed 3 points, 1 rebound, and 2 steals.Sky guard DiJonai Carrington was ejected in the first quarter on a flagrant 2 for a hard foul on Cunningham. Chicago played without leading scorer Sydney Taylor, who is out with a groin injury. Natasha Cloud and Rachel Banham scored 17 points apiece, and Kamilla Cardoso had 14 points and 9 rebounds.Indiana outscored Chicago 31-19 in the second quarter and led by as many as 17. Mitchell hit shots down the stretch as the Sky cut the margin to 4 in the fourth.Thursday's 86-84 loss to Las Vegas ended on a Chelsea Gray 3-pointer at the overtime buzzer.Indiana sits atop the Eastern Conference at 20-12 with 12 games still to go. Chicago is 12-20. Mitchell can extend the streak Tuesday against the New York Liberty.