National League news - July 2025

The Texas Rangers might be getting a key player back at just the right time. Veteran outfielder Joc Pederson is eyeing a return from injury as soon as this Sunday after a quick rehab stint in the minors. His comeback could give the team a much-needed spark as they fight for a playoff spot.

Editor’s Note: Playoff races often hinge on health and timing—getting Pederson back now could be a game-changer for the Rangers. He’s a seasoned player with postseason experience, and his bat could help solidify their lineup down the stretch. For fans, it’s a reason to feel a little more optimistic about their October chances.

Shae Peppler Cornette, a former Chicago Bears reporter and current ESPN anchor, found herself in hot water after wearing a Green Bay Packers shirt—a major faux pas for someone with deep ties to the Bears. She quickly apologized, acknowledging the misstep (and likely the wrath of Chicago fans). It’s a lighthearted but telling moment about how seriously sports loyalties are taken, especially in rivalries as fierce as Bears-Packers.

Editor’s Note: On the surface, it’s just a wardrobe choice, but in sports culture, team allegiances are sacred. For a reporter who built credibility covering one team, slipping into a rival’s gear—even casually—can feel like betrayal to fans. It’s a reminder of how personal fandom is, and how even minor actions can spark big reactions in the sports world.

Chase Briscoe is on a roll this NASCAR season, snagging his fifth pole position—this time at his home track, the Brickyard 400. He’s already claimed top starting spots at major races like the Daytona 500 and Coca-Cola 600, proving he’s a force to reckon with on qualifying days.

Editor’s Note: Briscoe’s consistency in qualifying is turning heads, especially at marquee events. For NASCAR fans, it’s a sign that he could be a serious contender in upcoming races—and for Indy, it’s a hometown win worth celebrating.

The Titans' young wide receiver Treylon Burks—a 2022 first-round pick—fractured his collarbone in practice, dealing another setback after an injury-plagued rookie season. The team wasted no time bringing in reinforcements, signaling concern over their thin receiving corps.

Editor’s Note: Burks was supposed to be a key piece of Tennessee’s offense, but this injury throws his development—and the Titans' passing game—into uncertainty. The quick roster move shows they’re scrambling, which isn’t ideal for a team trying to rebuild its identity. Tough break for a guy who just can’t catch a break.

With the Texans' 2025 season opener just 43 days away, this piece playfully debates who deserves the title of greatest No. 43 in franchise history—hinting there's a clear fan favorite. It’s a lighthearted nod to team lore while counting down to kickoff.

Editor’s Note: For die-hard Texans fans, jersey numbers carry legacy—this isn’t just trivia, it’s a way to spark nostalgia and debate during the slow grind of offseason anticipation. Casual readers might enjoy the quirky deep dive, but for locals, it’s a small ritual celebrating team identity.