3 hottest Cincinnati Bengals takes coming out of 2025 minicamp

The Yankees absolutely dominated the Orioles in a 9-0 shutout, thanks to a stellar performance by pitcher Clark Schmidt, who held Baltimore hitless for seven innings. The Bronx Bombers lived up to their nickname, crushing four solo homers and forcing the Orioles into such desperation that they even brought in a shortstop to pitch in the eighth.

Editor’s Note: This wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. Schmidt’s near-no-hitter and the Yankees' explosive offense show they’re heating up at the right time, while the Orioles' scrambling bullpen highlights their struggles. For baseball fans, it’s a reminder of how quickly momentum can swing in a long season.

Denny Hamlin had a weekend to remember at Pocono Raceway—not only did he secure the top starting spot (aka "pole position"), but he did it while celebrating the arrival of his newborn son. The track honored him by painting his name and car number on their iconic black rocks, a tradition usually reserved for NASCAR legends like Jimmie Johnson. Hamlin joked that officials told him the "requirement" for the honor was to "either retire or die," making the moment even sweeter.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another racing win—it’s a heartwarming blend of personal joy and professional achievement. Hamlin’s story highlights how NASCAR traditions create lasting memories for drivers, especially when life off the track (like becoming a dad) makes the victories even more meaningful. For fans, it’s a reminder that behind the speed and rivalry, there’s a human side to the sport.

The Phoenix Mercury lit up the scoreboard Saturday, sinking a franchise-record 17 three-pointers in a dominant win over the Chicago Sky. This wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. The Mercury are rolling, and their red-hot shooting is turning heads across the WNBA.

Editor’s Note: When a team breaks records, it’s more than just a flashy stat—it signals they’re hitting their stride at the right time. For the Mercury, this explosion from deep isn’t just fun to watch; it could shake up the league’s playoff picture. If they keep shooting like this, they’ll be a nightmare matchup for anyone.

England and Spain face off in a high-stakes Euro U-21 quarter-final, with live updates kicking off at 8pm BST. The pre-match coverage is already delivering oddball moments—like a mascot’s awkward sprint back to position and Channel 4’s nostalgic detour into a 20-year-old Joe Cole-Jermain Defoe highlight reel. Fans can share their hot takes via email with the reporter.

Editor’s Note: While it’s just a youth tournament, these matches often spotlight future stars (think Fati or Bellingham years ago). The quirky coverage and mascot mishaps add levity, but don’t be fooled—the game itself could hint at which country’s next generation is ready to dominate.

Toronto Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner, one of the NHL’s top forwards, might be eyeing a shorter-term contract—possibly just two years—instead of locking in long-term. With free agency looming next summer, this move could give him flexibility to reassess his options sooner rather than later. The Leafs and their fans are bracing for a pivotal offseason decision.

Editor’s Note: Marner’s contract talks are a big deal because he’s a cornerstone player for Toronto, and a short-term deal would keep the pressure on both sides. If he doesn’t commit long-term now, it fuels speculation about his future with the team—and whether the Leafs might need to rethink their core. For hockey fans, it’s another high-stakes drama in a league where star movement can shift entire franchises.