Wednesday Roundup: Cal Raleigh's historic season, massive ESPN exit, and more

Michael Malone is set to join ESPN’s ‘NBA Countdown’ full time, marking an exciting new chapter in his career. This move not only highlights Malone's expertise and popularity in the basketball community but also enhances ESPN's coverage of the NBA, bringing fans closer to the action and insights from a seasoned coach. His presence is expected to elevate discussions around key players and games, making it a significant development for basketball enthusiasts.

Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners made headlines by tying Ken Griffey Jr.'s home run record during a thrilling 12-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals. Hitting his 55th and 56th home runs of the season, Raleigh not only celebrated a personal achievement but also broke Mickey Mantle's record for the most home runs in a season by a switch-hitter. This milestone is significant as it highlights Raleigh's emerging talent and the Mariners' competitive spirit in the league.

The excitement is building as the MLB postseason approaches, with teams like the Mariners making headlines. Cal Raleigh is breaking records, showcasing the team's impressive performance. Meanwhile, Iowa State's CyHawk event is set to feature a thrilling volleyball match, and the cross-country team is gaining attention for its strong freshman class. This news matters because it highlights the vibrant sports culture and the potential for memorable moments in the upcoming competitions.

Cal Raleigh has made headlines by setting unprecedented MLB records, surpassing legends like Mickey Mantle and tying with Ken Griffey Jr. This achievement not only highlights Raleigh's exceptional talent but also marks a significant moment in baseball history, showcasing the evolving nature of the sport and inspiring fans and players alike.

Last night in baseball was thrilling as Shohei Ohtani once again showcased his extraordinary talent, creating a new 50-50 club that highlights his unique skills. Meanwhile, the Dodgers' bullpen struggled, adding to their woes, while Cal Raleigh made headlines by breaking one record and tying another. These moments not only entertain fans but also shape the narrative of the season, making it a significant night in MLB history.

Stephen A. Smith has secured a lucrative deal with SiriusXM reportedly worth $12 million per year, adding to his already impressive $105 million contract with ESPN. This significant financial success highlights Smith's influence in sports media and his ability to command top dollar for his insights and commentary. It also underscores the growing value of sports talk radio and the demand for engaging personalities in the industry.

Cal Raleigh is making headlines not just for his impressive performance on the field but also for his unique charm. His ability to break MLB records this season has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike, showcasing his talent and dedication to the game. This matters because it highlights the emergence of new stars in baseball, bringing excitement and fresh narratives to the sport.

The Daily BPW Show, a podcast dedicated to Bayern Munich, is making waves in the sports community. Launched on September 17th, 2025, it offers fans daily insights and discussions about their favorite football club. This show matters because it connects fans with the latest news, analysis, and opinions, fostering a vibrant community around Bayern Munich.

In an impressive start, ESPN and Fox One have reportedly gained 1 million subscribers within just the first ten days of their new streaming service collaboration. This rapid growth highlights the increasing demand for bundled sports streaming options, making it a significant development in the media landscape. As more viewers turn to online platforms for their sports content, this partnership could reshape how fans access their favorite games and events.

Stephen A. Smith, the well-known ESPN personality, is making waves by launching a new political show called Straight Shooter with Stephen A. on SiriusXM's POTUS channel. This move comes amid swirling rumors about his potential presidential run, which adds an intriguing layer to his already impressive career, where he's nearing $40 million in annual earnings. This show could provide a fresh perspective on political discourse, especially from someone with Smith's influence and reach.

The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) is making significant strides in visibility by nearly doubling its exposure on ESPN and securing a new streaming deal with Victory+. This is a big win for women's sports, as it not only enhances the league's reach but also provides fans with more access to games. The increased coverage can lead to greater support for the teams and players, like Julia Grosso from Chicago Stars FC, and helps to elevate the profile of women's soccer in the sports landscape.

USA Network has secured a media rights deal with League One Volleyball, marking a significant step for the sport's visibility on television. This partnership is expected to enhance the reach of volleyball, bringing exciting matches to a broader audience and potentially increasing fan engagement. With the growing popularity of volleyball, this deal is a win for both the network and the league, as it opens up new opportunities for sponsorships and viewership.

Michael Malone is set to join ESPN’s ‘NBA Countdown’ full time, marking an exciting new chapter in his career. This move not only highlights Malone's expertise and popularity in the basketball community but also enhances ESPN's coverage of the NBA, bringing fans closer to the action and insights from a seasoned coach. His presence is expected to elevate discussions around key players and games, making it a significant development for basketball enthusiasts.

Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners made headlines by tying Ken Griffey Jr.'s home run record during a thrilling 12-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals. Hitting his 55th and 56th home runs of the season, Raleigh not only celebrated a personal achievement but also broke Mickey Mantle's record for the most home runs in a season by a switch-hitter. This milestone is significant as it highlights Raleigh's emerging talent and the Mariners' competitive spirit in the league.

Fantasy basketball analyst Joel Bartilotta has provided an insightful breakdown of the NBA schedule for the 2025-26 season. This analysis is crucial for fans and players alike as it helps them strategize their fantasy teams effectively, ensuring they make informed decisions throughout the season.

As the NBA season approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers face a crucial decision regarding Austin Reaves' future with the team. With Reaves likely to decline his player option, he could be in line for a lucrative contract worth between $30 to $35 million annually. This situation is significant not only for Reaves but also for the Lakers' overall strategy, especially in relation to their star player Luka Doncic. How the team navigates this will impact their performance and roster dynamics moving forward.

As we head into Week 3 of the fantasy football season, analyst Ray Garvin highlights some concerning trends for rookies Omarion Hampton and Travis Hunter. Both players are not meeting expectations, which could impact fantasy teams relying on their performance. Understanding these shifts is crucial for fantasy managers looking to make informed decisions about their lineups.

J.J. McCarthy's potential return from injury may be influenced by the upcoming schedule of the Minnesota Vikings. As the team prepares for their next games, fans and analysts are keeping a close eye on how this could impact McCarthy's recovery timeline. Understanding the schedule's implications is crucial for both the player and the team's strategy moving forward.