News, reporting and explainers from Sports Blizzard.
The Braves announced Thursday they have exercised contract options for outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. and second baseman Ozzie Albies. Acuña Jr.'s option is valued at $17 million, while Albies' option is for $7 million.
Carolina Panthers rookie cornerback Will Lee sustained a hamstring injury in the first half of Thursday night's game against the Green Bay Packers. The Panthers were already missing two starting cornerbacks.
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson returned to play on Thursday after a hospital visit for X-rays and a CT scan, despite reportedly coughing up blood. He was diagnosed with a broken rib.
Robert Thomas and Philip Broberg each recorded a goal and two assists, contributing to the St. Louis Blues' 4-1 win against the Boston Bruins. Joel Hofer made 31 saves for the Blues, who ended a two-game scoring drought.
Cole Caufield and Alex Newhook each scored two goals, leading the Montreal Canadiens to a 5-2 victory over the Dallas Stars on Thursday. The Canadiens have now won four consecutive road games.
The Milwaukee Brewers have won their first World Series championship, concluding the postseason. The team's victory marks a significant moment in their history.
Viktor Arvidsson scored a hat trick and an assist, contributing to the Detroit Red Wings' 4-1 win against the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday. Lucas Raymond also scored for Detroit, which has earned points in eight of its last nine games.
Pontus Holmberg recorded a career-high four points, with a goal and three assists, leading the Tampa Bay Lightning to a 6-4 victory over the Winnipeg Jets. The Jets have now lost seven consecutive games.
Following their World Series victory, several Milwaukee Brewers players, including pitcher Brandon Woodruff and outfielder Sal Frelick, attended the Packers-Panthers game at Lambeau Field. Frelick performed a Lambeau Leap, joining fans in the stands.
The Detroit Red Wings are prepared to "wait as long as necessary" to trade Dylan Larkin, who has requested a trade. Larkin, a six-time 30-goal scorer, was suspended without pay after informing the team he would no longer play for the franchise.
Eight-time Pro Bowl guard Quenton Nelson expressed excitement about a "new opportunity" with the Seahawks after more than eight seasons with the Colts.
ESPN NFL highlighted the best-dressed players in the league for Week 8, featuring Bryce Young's arrival.
Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer indicated the team will prioritize acquiring pitching this offseason. Hoyer noted the Brewers' strong pitching as a factor in their success, an area he believes the Cubs need to strengthen.
Lawrence Barretto compiled the main discussion points from media day at the Mexico City Grand Prix.
Nikola Tsolov's participation in FP1 in Mexico has reportedly intensified the competition for a Racing Bulls seat in 2027.
INDY NXT by Firestone champion Nikita Johnson recently tested with Dale Coyne Racing, potentially for a spot in the 2027 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season.
Lando Norris has defended McLaren's development progress for 2026, stating that the team has had "a pretty good year" despite a challenging start to the current campaign.
Fernando Alonso has reiterated his view on the perceived lack of talent among some drivers at the back of the Formula 1 grid. He also questioned why teams tolerate frequent crashes, especially given the cost cap era.
Novak Djokovic was defeated by Jan-Lennard Struff at the Swiss Indoors on Thursday. Djokovic lost 6-7 (4), 7-5, 7-6 (5) to the 47th-ranked player.
Lewis Hamilton stated that the "next five races are like test races" for Ferrari. The Briton is focused on developing a car capable of competing for titles in the upcoming season.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat trick in 15 minutes for Al Nassr, contributing to their 5-3 victory over Al Kholood in the Saudi Pro League. This performance brings his career goal total to 985.
Jets nickelback Jarvis Brownlee Jr. stated he was benched and fined last Sunday due to missing multiple mandatory team meetings.
George Russell stated that the current season, where teammate Kimi Antonelli is set to win the world championship, will not define his career.
A Dominican Republic appeals court has revoked a pardon previously granted to Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays. This decision upholds his conviction for the sexual and psychological abuse of a minor.
