The New York Mets have been one of the biggest disappointments in baseball this season, entering Sunday’s game with an 18-26 record despite having one of the highest payrolls in MLB. As a result, questions are being raised about changes to the front office and coaching staff.

MBL insider Robert Murray wrote this week that he believes Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns is likely safe. This had a lot to do with how much team owner Steve Cohen wanted him and how long he waited to hire him.

RELATED: Insiders explain whether the Mets will sell at the trade deadline

“Cohen coveted Stearns, believing he was the top candidate for the job, and waited more than a year to hire him after he left the position with the Brewers. He would not fire him at the first sign of trouble.”

In New York, Robert Murray met with president of baseball operations David Stearns, claiming to be safe.

Stearns, age 41, established himself as one of the best general managers in baseball during his tenure with the Milwaukee Brewers (2015-2023). After taking over as the Mets president of baseball operations ahead of the 2024 MLB season, he led the club to the National League Championship Series in his first year, but the team is now on the verge of consecutive seasons without a playoff appearance.

Despite declines in recent years, Cohen still believes in Stearns’ vision for the future. Therefore, New York’s head of baseball operations would have to dictate how the club approaches the MLB trade deadline, with a strong incentive to buy out and save his job.

RELATED: MLB Power Rankings Week 7, New York Mets Climb

The same level of trust and job security doesn’t exist for Mendoza. Murray wrote that the Mets’ captain’s future “seems more uneven” and that change is possible. What doesn’t help the New York manager is the fact that a vacancy will attract the top managerial candidates in MLB.

Ultimately, the most likely outcome is that Mendoza will be fired this year and Stearns will be chosen as the next captain of the Mets. If things don’t work out with the next manager, Cohen will likely vacate the house.

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

Sheffield Wednesday supporters have had little time to celebrate in recent months.

Relegation to League One in February pushed the club into even greater uncertainty, as frustrations over ownership and the future continued to grow around Hillsborough.

That disappointing background perhaps explains why the name of Carlos Carvalhal still holds such affection in Sheffield.

portuguese newspaper game This week on Wednesday a major feature was devoted to the magic of Carvalhal, this period is now being revisited through a new book called “Carlos Had a Dream” written by journalist Dominic Howson.

The book revisits the 2015/16 season, when Wednesday reached the Championship play-off final against Hull City and came within one match of a Premier League return. The club has not played in the top flight since 1999/00.

For many supporters, that campaign still represents the emotional pinnacle of Sheffield Wednesday’s modern history.

from doubt to belief

Howson explained to the Portuguese press that Carvalhal arrived at Hillsborough surrounded by suspicion.

“With him, it was a real leap into the unknown,” He said. “He had coached big clubs but had never worked in England. Many supporters were disappointed by Stuart Gray’s dismissal as he had achieved success with a limited budget.”

The skepticism extended beyond the stands.

“Carvalhal walked into a skeptical dressing room, a skeptical fan group and a skeptical press box,” Howson recalled.

That mood didn’t last long. Before Carvalhal’s arrival Wednesday had finished 13th in the championship. Expectations were modest even after owner Dezfon Chansiri increased spending. Yet the Portuguese coach quickly changed the atmosphere around the club.

“The first season was innovative, fun, and full of potential,” Howson said. “Wednesday signed 15 players, but they almost immediately formed a cohesive and expressive team. The football was adventurous and entertaining.”

Players such as Barry Bannon, Ross Wallace, Fernando Forestieri and Gary Hooper became symbols of a side that suddenly felt alive again. Forestieri, in particular, emerged as one of the championship’s outstanding performers that season.

Wednesday lost only two home league matches during the 2015/16 campaign. Hillsborough came out strong again. The crowd kept increasing. Optimism spread throughout the city.

Howson believes that emotional impact explains why Carvalhal still holds a special place in the club’s modern story.

“He gave confidence, identity and happiness,” The author explained. “His personality resonated deeply. Supporters embraced him wholeheartedly and sang ‘Carlos Had a Dream’.”

The chant eventually became one of the defining symbols of that era.

“The atmosphere changed overnight”

The timing of the book release seems important. Wednesday are preparing for another painful rebuild after demotion, while the memories of the Carvalhal years grow stronger with time.

Particularly for younger supporters, the run to Wembley has become a reference point for them as to what the club can still be. Howson said this clearly.

“For the younger generation, the 2015/16 season defines the club,” He said. “This is no longer the era of Di Canio or Benito Carbone and the excitement of the 1990s. That trip to Wembley was monumental.”

The author returned repeatedly to the idea that Carvalhal changed not only the results, but also the feeling around Sheffield Wednesday.

“He spread joy and ended years of indifference,” Howson explained. “Supporters fill Hillsborough again to watch bold football.”

He then described how quickly the mood changed around the club.

“The atmosphere changed overnight. The excitement grew every week. There was freedom and individuality in the team, and character in the dressing room. We had a stadium that was again full of noise and hope. Confidence spread throughout the city.”

Howson also believes that Carvalhal’s personality played a major role in creating that relationship.

“He connected with people regardless of results. He had charisma and humor.” He said.

Despite the club’s difficult situation, that emotional attachment is still strong.

“Carvalhal was the club’s first foreign manager and became a unique chapter in our modern history,” Howson added. “With them, it was the last time Wednesday felt really close to the Premier League, with exciting football and a lively atmosphere.”

The author acknowledged that the current reality of Hillsborough makes those memories even heavier.

“It’s sad to see where we are,” He said. “But Carvalhal is still popular with supporters. He created memories that go far beyond disappointment.”

Carlos Carvalhal still wonders what would have happened if Sheffield Wednesday had completed the job at Wembley. Ten years from now, supporters will probably do the same.

portuguese newspaper game This week Wednesday’s remarkable 2015/16 season was revisited through a major feature attached to the book “Carlos Had a Dream”, in which authors Dominic Howson and Carvalhal both reflected on the club’s painful near-miss and the stories that still surround that team.

Sheffield Wednesday reached the Championship play-off final under Carvalhal before losing 1–0 to Hull City on Wednesday, missing out on one of football’s richest prizes. For many supporters, it still hurts.

“For the younger generation, the 2015/16 season defines the club,” Howson explained. “That trip to Wembley was memorable, the first in 23 years. For many supporters it was the greatest moment of their lives.”

Over 40,000 Wednesday supporters traveled to Wembley that day. Fans believed that promotion could eventually bring the club back to the Premier League for the first time since 2000.

The £170 million question

Howson acknowledged that the feeling towards the club during that period was different to that experienced by Sheffield Wednesday supporters for years.

“Nobody expected us to fight for promotion, to reach the play-offs,” He remembered. “And nobody expected us to beat Brighton and get to Wembley.”

That semi-final against Brighton remains one of the defining nights of Carvalhal’s spell. Wednesday won 3-1 on aggregate and suddenly found themselves one game away from the Premier League. However, the ending was brutal.

“Many players froze on football’s biggest stage,” Howson accepted. “It was a painful end to a remarkable season.”

Howson believes that the promotion would have changed Carvalhal’s status forever.

“If Carvalhal had finished with promotion to the Premier League, I think he would have achieved legendary status in the city and he would have been forever appreciated.” He said.

The financial impact will also be huge. Promotion was valued at around £170 million (€195 million), money that could potentially shape the club’s future.

“This could have helped the club to reposition itself over time,” Howson acknowledged, before adding a more cautious thought. “But given what we know today about the ownership situation, perhaps not going up was a blessing in disguise. We don’t know what might have happened.”

Carvalhal himself is not interested in dwelling too much on the defeat.

“If we had gone up, I don’t know whether I would have stayed at Sheffield Wednesday for many years,” He reflected. “It was like that. We started as underdogs. We weren’t promotion favorites and still finished sixth.”

The Portuguese manager instead prefers to focus on how expectations changed dramatically during that first season.

“I arrived at Sheffield Wednesday with the idea of ​​stabilizing the team, then suddenly we found ourselves fighting for promotion to the Premier League,” He said. “I can feel like a champion only for exceeding objectives.”

He also admitted that his relationship with the club has become deeper than expected.

“At that time I had opportunities to leave, but I did not want to do so because of my attachment to the club,” Carvalhal revealed.

“If you leave a mark on a club to such an extent that people remember you years later, and someone decides to write a book about that campaign, then that’s rewarding,” He said. “Only the promotion was missing because everything else was extraordinary.”

Carvalhal also proudly highlighted the historical significance of what his employees accomplished.

“We were the club’s first foreign coaching staff and were responsible for some of the best results of the modern era,” he explained. “Staying in people’s memories as Portuguese makes it even more special.”

“A giant wake up”

Carvalhal’s personality became almost as famous as the football. Supporters still remember the metaphor, the emotional speech and the feeling that something different was happening around Hillsborough.

One sentence followed him everywhere.

“I had an expression that became very popular – ‘Let’s wake up a giant’,” Carvalhal was recalled.

In many ways, Sheffield Wednesday supporters believe that is exactly what they did.

“The club was literally sleeping,” he explained. “We almost doubled the crowds, increased attendances by 30 per cent and our away allocations were always sold out.”

Then came Wembley.

“The 40,000 tickets we got were sold out,” Carvalhal added. “That was our big objective.”

Howson also revisited the origins of the famous “Carlos had a dream” chant, which eventually became inseparable from that team.

“It happened at Brentford when Lucas Joao scored a late winner,” he explained. “The supporters sang the song all afternoon and at first they didn’t even realize it was about them.”

Carvalhal embraced it completely. According to Howson, the Portuguese coach later had the song embroidered on the inside of his jacket and printed on his boots.

Howson also highlighted another famous Carvalhal moment, this time after a chaotic comeback against Cardiff City.

“Had a loss on Wednesday, then threw in two more forwards and began a spectacular comeback,” The author recalled. “He later explained this by saying that he ‘put all the meat on the grill.'”

This explanation became another example of the Portuguese manager’s strange charm.

“It was philosophical, colorful and said with a smile,” Howson added. “He connected with people regardless of results. He had charisma and humor.”

arsenal story

One of the best stories of Carvalhal’s spell involved Barry Bannan and Ross Wallace before Sheffield Wednesday’s famous 3–0 win over Arsenal in the League Cup, a result many supporters still talk about today.

Carvalhal admitted that he had deliberately told both players that they would not be involved. The reaction was exactly what he wanted.

“I told Ross Wallace and Barry Bannon that they wouldn’t play because we had too many matches.” he explained. “This was a conversation to test their reactions.”

The pair were angry.

“They were upset and convinced they wouldn’t play,” Carvalhal said. “But I was always confident that I would use them.”

Believing they had the night off, both players went out for a drink.

“They went to drink beer and drank too much,” Carvalhal laughed. “But because I actually planned on playing them, they started right away and both had very good games.”

Sheffield Wednesday then defeated Arsenal 3–0.

“They were surprised and started laughing afterward,” Carvalhal added. “But in proper British fashion, there is no beer that can beat ours.”

This line perhaps explains why Sheffield Wednesday supporters still remember the Carvalhal years differently from almost everything that followed.

News broke Wednesday morning that Carlos Correa suffered a serious ankle injury that will require surgery. The surgery will rule out the Houston Astros’ starting shortstop’s 2026 season.

It was an apparent end to the season for Correa, who was injured during batting practice before Tuesday night’s win over the Los Angeles Dodgers. He went 0 for 4, but is off to a solid start this season, hitting .279 with 16 RBI. Along with young slugger Yordan Alvarez, he was a big part of why Houston was still excited for the upcoming season despite a slow start to the year.

Korea was a surprise trade at last year’s deadline. The veteran player was traded to the Minnesota Twins to strengthen Houston for a playoff race, which did not succeed. This marked the return of the veteran player who was drafted by the Astros with the first pick in the 2012 draft. But Correa wasn’t just a good hitter, he was an essential leader in the clubhouse, and his presence will be greatly missed.

Myriad injuries destroy Astros’ 2026

It felt like Houston’s season was over before it even started. 14 players of the club are on the injured list. That group is made up of Ronel Blanco, Hunter Brown, Corea, Yener Diaz, Josh Hader, Tatsuya Imai, Cristian Javier, Joey Loperfido, Jake Meyers, Nate Pearson, Jeremy Pena, Taylor Trammell, Brandon Walter, and Hayden Wesneski.

Those injuries destroyed the clubhouse, forcing the Astros into fourth place in the American League West. The only club they are currently ahead of is the Los Angeles Angels. Houston can certainly bounce back later in the season once those starters return, but until then they need to be cautious and the news from Correa won’t help matters.

The Astros’ roster is primarily made up of young guys who probably should have spent more time in Triple-A. The problem is that Houston no longer has that luxury due to bad luck with injuries. Because of this, those young players are being trusted more than necessary.

That being said, if the Astros want to reverse their 15-22 record, they will need that group of players. Not a ton, but enough to reach a .500 record. This could be enough for Houston to save this season as they await the return of several of their injured players.

Carlos Prates solidified his place as a legitimate welterweight title contender at UFC Perth on Saturday. In the biggest fight of his career, the Brazilian took on former 170-pound champion Jack Della Maddalena in a main event matchup in JDM’s home nation and it didn’t take long to see who was the better fighter.

Prats used his length and speed to deliver hard, accurate shots through his enemy’s guard. Although he gave up a takedown in Round 1 and laughed at the fact that JDM resorted to grappling to defeat him, he completely shut down his efforts the rest of the fight.

He landed a nasty leg kick at the end of round 2 which was the beginning of the end for the former champion. Then in round 3, he landed some dangerous elbows, before another leg kick dropped Della Maddalena again and secured the victory by TKO for Prates at 3:17 of the third round.

Although Carlos Prates probably won’t get a title fight in his comeback, he’s sure to get another big prize later this year. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the next four fight options for the welterweight star.

Kamru Usman

After three consecutive losses, welterweight veteran Kamaru Usman scored an impressive victory against Joaquin Buckley last June. He has been on the sidelines since then as he next looks for a title fight against Islam Makhachev. This does not seem possible.

While Prates is dangerous, this is a good matchup for Usman, and defeating him could secure the title fight he wants. For the Brazilian, it will also be a chance to add a third former champion to his hit list and secure a title fight this year.

Belal Muhammad (if he beats Gabriel Bonfim)

Former champion Belal Muhammad will have a chance to get back on his winning streak and end a two-fight losing streak against fast-rising star Gabriel Bonfim next month. If he can get his first win since July 2024, it would mean a clash with Prats in the autumn.

It will be a chance for the American to prove he can still hang with the young contenders in the top five, and for Prats, it will be the toughest test of his takedown defense yet.

ian machado gary

If Prates wants to prove he’s worthy of a title fight soon, avenging his only loss in the UFC – a blowout to Ian Machado Garry in April 2025 – should be an option. Both have possibly been blocked from a title fight by Michael Morales. So the No. 1 contenders facing off in a rematch could easily headline another Fight Night card. Especially if it’s in Brazil.

The big question is, will Gary be willing to risk another clash with Prats? This will be a tough sell. Maybe the UFC could make it part of a four-man title tournament?

Islam Makhachev

Will Prats next jump into a title shot with new champ Makhachev? Probably not. But fight booking is a strange thing, especially when injuries or priorities come into play. There’s no doubt that the champ is simply looking for a favorable matchup because he’s not getting the fight he really wants.

While Prats deserves respect, the Russian may try to steal his momentum and show that there are many levels to grapple with in a matchup in which he should perform well and receive a big check for it.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

On Saturday morning (in the United States), two of the planet’s best welterweights faced off in the main event of UFC Perth, when former division king Jack Della Maddalena took on dangerous Brazilian striker Carlos Prates.

A win could bring the former champions back into title contention this year. However, it didn’t take long to see that Prates was the better fighter, and in two-plus rounds, he made it through surgery and dismantled Della Maddalena en route to a TKO victory. With this victory, his name has been included in the discussion of contenders for 2026.

After the UFC Perth main event, let’s see where Prates and Dela Maddalena land in our new UFC welterweight rankings.

10. Joaquin Buckley (21-7)

Joaquin Buckley has faced many hardships during his UFC career. However, most of this was at middleweight. But since he bulked up to 170 pounds last year, the “New Mansa” has won six in a row. Three of these wins came against great players of this era, Vicente Luque, Stephen Thompson and Colby Covington.

His biggest test to date came when he faced division veteran Kamaru Usman at UFC Atlanta. However, while he is one of the most dangerous strikers in the weight class, the former champ exposed his major shortcomings in a lopsided decision defeat.

9. Shawn Brady (18-2)

Sean Brady has been very impressive during his 10-fight run in the UFC. After a loss against former champion Belal Muhammad three years earlier, he scored three major wins, including a win against another former champion Leon Edwards. However, he ran into serious trouble against heavy-hitter Michael Morales at UFC 322. The knockout loss he suffered may have cost him a title shot in 2026.

8. Shavkat Rakhmonov (19-0)

Shavkat Rakhmonov has proven time and again that he can ultimately capture UFC gold. He cemented this fact with a hard-fought victory over fellow rising star Ian Garry at UFC 310. Although he was not the best version of himself, he went undefeated at 19–0 despite battling a serious knee injury.

However, knee problems are becoming a serious problem. The disease sidelined him for the entire 2025. Now, he is expected to miss much of 2026 after re-injuring the joint and requiring another surgery. That’s why he drops down our latest UFC welterweight rankings and could eventually fall out of the top 10 by the summer.

7. Kamaru Usman (21-4)

For six consecutive years, Kamaru Usman set a great standard of excellence as he built a resume that will guarantee him a spot in the UFC Hall of Fame. He would go on to be known as one of the greatest welterweight fighters of all time and one of the best pound-for-pound competitors of his era. However, all good things come to an end.

Still, despite losing three fights, the 38-year-old showed at UFC Atlanta that he is far from over. Earned a very impressive decision win over one of the fastest rising stars in the division. Although he may not fight for gold again, Usman remains an elite talent at 170 pounds.

6. Belal Muhammad (24-4)

Belal Muhammad has long received a lot of criticism for his fighting style, but the impressive results cannot be denied, and it has catapulted him over the top to become the welterweight king in 2024. However, it is extremely difficult to live there, and that is what creates legends.

Unfortunately, after becoming champion, Muhammad suffered two disappointing defeats. The most recent case came against Ian Machado Gary in November. There is no serious doubt that he will ever fight for the title again.

5. Jack Della Maddalena (18-4)

Australia’s Jack Della Maddalena has become his country’s second largest MMA exporter. The DWCS contract winner won his first seven inside the Octagon – including five finishes – and earned a title shot in May 2025. In his first shot at gold, he was successful, taking the belt from Belal Muhammad.

However, staying on top has been difficult for the Australian team. In his first title defense, he was soundly defeated by former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. Then, despite being in front of his countrymen, Carlos Prates demolished them in May. JDM is firmly out of the title picture in 2026.

4. Carlos Prates (24-7)

Since earning his UFC contract at the Contender Series three years ago, Carlos Prates has been excelling in the Octagon. Win their first four – they all finish. However, he got a bump in the road in April 2025 when fellow title contender Ian Machado Garry knocked him out.

But since then he has bounced back from that setback. Winning three in a row, they have all been eliminated again, and the most recent was a dominant destruction of former division king Jack Della Maddalena. The Brazilian is now a legitimate title contender.

3. Ian Machado Gary (17-1)

Weighing in at 170 pounds, Ian Machado is a notable part of Gary’s new wave of rising stars. He is a very technical striker who is arguably the best self-promoter in the division. He has already achieved many big victories inside the Octagon. However, his biggest victory came in November, when he defeated former division king Belal Muhammad.

By completely shutting down Muhammad’s grappling game in Qatar, the Irishman showed he is more skilled than he is given credit for.

2. Michael Morales (19-0) – Top Contender

Ecuador’s Michael Morales is quickly becoming one of the most feared fighters in the division. After an impressive performance on the regional scene, he won five straight inside the Octagon, including three finishes. However, in their last two encounters, they have defeated two of the best players in the division over the past five years. The most recent occurred at UFC 322 when he shut down a title opportunity with an impressive knockout victory over Shawn Brady.

1. Islam Makhachev (28-1) – Champion

Islam Makhachev has solidified his place as one of the greatest UFC lightweights of all time with his wins over Dustin Poirier, Alexander Volkanovski (twice) and Charles Oliveira. Not only is he a dominant wrestler, but he has one of the most underrated standup games in the game.

At UFC 322, he made his mark in UFC history when he moved up in weight and became the latest fighter to win titles in two divisions, as he became the new welterweight king with a dominant win over Jack Della Maddalena.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

There are no great replacement options available now for embattled New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza.

The start to the Mets’ 2026 campaign has been a complete disaster. Heading into tonight’s series opener against the Washington Nationals, they are tied for the worst record in baseball at 9-19. Recently the club has reached its lowest point after losing 12 matches, which will be considered one of the worst in the team’s history.

To make matters worse, at this time a year ago they had the best record in baseball. That is, they suffered a massive decline at the end of the season under manager Carlos Mendoza. The captain needed a fast start with this hugely expensive team to quell speculation about his job. Now, it looks like it’s only going to be a matter of time before he’s ousted.

Changing a manager during a season is a very difficult task. However, last week the Boston Red Sox presented a golden opportunity for the Mets when they surprisingly fired manager Alex Cora after a 10–17 start. Most people in and around Boston feel that their struggles are due to the team built by CBO Craig Breslow, not Cora’s coaching.

Alex Cora is no longer an option for the New York Mets’ replacement for Carlos Mendoza

The Red Sox’s decision opened the door for the Mets to go with a manager who has a World Series win (2018) and three trips to the playoffs on his resume. Unfortunately, Cora will no longer be an option for New York. At least not for the rest of the season.

USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reported, “Alex Cora was offered the Philadelphia Phillies managerial job before Don Mattingly, but he declined it.” “He has decided to spend time with his family.”

The Phillies fired manager Rob Thomson on Tuesday after leading his team to an equally poor 9-19 start this season.

If Cora wasn’t willing to take the job for a talent-rich Phillies team, it’s highly unlikely he would take the same position with the Mets. Although he could still become the next manager of either team, this would not happen until after the season.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

It seems like a Thanos-level inevitability that the New York Mets are going to fire manager Carlos Mendoza at the start of their series against the Washington Nationals on Tuesday, tied for the worst record in MLB at 9-19.

A 12-game losing streak dominated most of April, and when they broke the slump with consecutive wins last week, they dropped three of four to one of the worst franchises of the last decade, the Colorado Rockies. It’s been a poor start to the season that can’t be blamed on a number of major injuries. One of the most expensive rosters in the game has enough talent to be much better than this.

Add in the fact that the Mets had a historic collapse at the end of last season, and it seems highly unlikely that Mendoza is still on the bench by mid-May. So, who can New York turn to in an effort to save the season and become the first team in MLB history to make the playoffs despite a 12-game losing streak?

We’re looking to answer that question with seven possible options to take over as Mets manager soon.

Kai Correa, Mets bench coach

The most likely replacement for Mendoza as manager of the Mets will be their new bench coach, Kai Correa. The 37-year-old has been viewed as a manager of the future in MLB circles for the past few years after stints as an assistant with the San Francisco Giants and Cleveland Guardians.

There was also speculation in February that he was hired specifically as a backup plan if Mendoza’s struggles continued early this season. Of all the possible options, Correa would likely be team president David Stearns’ choice.

Alex Cora, former Red Sox manager

Last weekend, the Boston Red Sox surprised many when they fired manager Alex Cora after eight seasons. While the team has had a few losing seasons under his watch (including an 11-17 start this year), the 50-year-old has had some very good years in Beantown, including a World Series victory in 2018.

Furthermore, he remains one of the most respected managers in the game because he brought the best out of the talent he had. He wasn’t the one to trade stars like Mookie Betts, Xander Bogaerts, Rafael Devers and Alex Bregman or let them walk. Or continued to spend big to improve the roster despite being in a bigger market.

Although it will be difficult to walk away from the options available in the market and change things, Cora has the respect for the game that will give him a big chance in this.

Joe Girardi, former Phillies and Yankees manager

It’s possible that Stearns feels Correa is not ready to be thrust into such a high-pressure situation, or owner Steve Cohen makes a move to bring in a big name to serve as interim manager for the remainder of the season. That’s why former New York Yankees and Philadelphia Phillies manager Joe Girardi could be an option.

Although his performance in Philly was disappointing, he still has a World Series title on his resume (2009 with the Yanks) and is well-versed in handling the New York media. Girardi is one of the few managers available who can jump into such a difficult situation and possibly succeed.

Carlos Beltran, Mets special assistant

In 2019, Mets legend Carlos Beltrán was hired as the team’s manager. However, he lost his job due to his involvement in the Houston Astros’ sign-stealing scandal. Nevertheless, he remains a part of the organization as a special assistant and has been associated with other managerial jobs over the years.

Beltran is a well-respected person of the game and his knowledge of the Mets organization is beneficial at this time. Additionally, he may be able to connect with the team’s Latin stars better than Mendoza as he was once an elite star in MLB.

David Ross, former Cubs manager

The managerial options for the Mets are few, with the season having just started a few weeks ago. However, one interesting veteran skipper who could be in the game if the team fires Mendoza is former Chicago Cubs manager David Ross.

Although he wasn’t amazing in Chi-Town, he was still very solid, and the team had a record of 83–79 before being replaced by Craig Council. If New York is interested in giving a former manager the rest of the season to prove they can do the job long term, Ross is a sensible choice.

Dick Scott, Mets Triple-A manager

Another short-term option with experience who could jump into the job on short notice is current Mets Triple-A manager Dick Scott. He has done a solid job at Syracuse, having been in the game for more than two decades, and previously served as the Mets’ bench coach in 2016 and 2017. So he knows the market pressure.

Although he won’t be the top choice, the Red Sox turned to their own Triple-A manager, Chad Tracy, to replace Cora last week.

Buck Showalter, Mets manager before Mendoza

Yes, Stearns ousted Buck Showalter from running for president for the first time in 2024. But New York sports fans have seen managers or coaches fired and return in the same role or with another NYC team. Besides, desperate times call for desperate measures, and the experienced coach who can jump into such a messy situation and turn things around is Showalter.

Let’s not forget that in 2022, he led the team to its first 100-plus win season since the 1980s. The biggest issue is that this is a team that is built to reach the World Series this autumn, and in more than 22 years as a big league manager, that’s something the soon-to-be 70-year-old has never accomplished.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The main event of UFC 327 had a shocking result on Saturday, as Carlos Ulberg defeated Jiri Prochazka for the vacant UFC light heavyweight title. In the early rounds, Ulberg injured his right knee and began having trouble standing.

“BJP” could not take advantage of the opportunity. Instead, Ulberg took advantage of a big left hook that dropped Prochazka, then finished him off with strikes on the ground and became the new UFC Light Heavyweight Champion.

It’s unclear how serious Ulberg’s injury is or how long it might take him to return to the Octagon. However, there are plenty of interesting fights in the division. As we wait for more information regarding the injury, we’re looking at three potential opponents in “Black Jag’s” first UFC light heavyweight title defense.

Magomed Ankalev

The native of Dagestan, Russia briefly held the 205-pound championship after defeating then-UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira by unanimous decision at UFC 313 in March 2025. However, they met for a rematch last October at UFC 320, which had a completely different outcome.

Magomed Ankalev has been clear about his desire for another crack at the belt. A win over another former champion in Ankalaev could be key to Ulberg’s resume.

Khalil Rountree Jr.

Last October, Khalil Rountree Jr. faced Prochazka at UFC 320, winning Fight of the Night. Rountree was in control in round two and looked to be on her way to a decisive victory. He was then caught with a left hook in the third round, resulting in a knockout loss.

Despite his recent tough stretch, the Los Angeles native remains one of the top names at 205 pounds. Rountree will certainly provide Ulberg a test to make his case at the top of the division.

Paulo Costa

“Borrachinha” fought at light heavyweight for only the second time in his career when he faced Azamat Murzakanov in the co-main event of UFC 327. Paulo Costa floored Murzakanov and secured the TKO victory with a head kick in the third round.

Costa has more to prove in the division before there can be any conversation about a title shot. But on the basis of his last performance he has given a big statement.

Born and raised in New York City, Jimmy Robles received a journalism degree from Queens College in 2017. Before… More About Jimmy Robles

Real Sociedad’s Carlos Soler says West Ham United helped him improve his game.

The Spain international is a product of Valencia’s academy and has spent six years with their first team.

He left the Mestalla for Paris Saint-Germain in September 2022 and played 1,530 minutes in 35 matches in his first season. In his second season, PSG appointed Luis Enrique.

The former West Ham player played under his compatriot for the national team, but did not enjoy regular minutes under Enrique during the 2023/24 season. Therefore, PSG sent him on loan to the Premier League team in August 2024.

Julen Lopetegui was the manager at West Ham at the time and Soler played 18 matches under his command. The Hammers parted ways with him in January 2025 and appointed Graham Potter as his successor.

Soler scored one goal and provided one assist in 1,487 minutes in 33 matches for West Ham. Below are his statistics per game in the Premier League.

In December 2024, the 29-year-old said he was happy And wanted to remain at West Ham. However, he expressed doubt in March 2025, and the English club ultimately decided against making his stay permanent.

Earlier this month, Soler revealed that his time at West Ham was not successful as it coincided with one of his worst seasons.

“My role at PSG and at West Ham was secondary. I was there for only one season, and it coincided with one of the club’s worst seasons,” He Said.

Differing opinions on West Ham spell

Friday edition of As Has published an interview with Carlos Soler. He gives a different perspective on how his time with West Ham helped him develop his game.

The Spaniard has scored four goals and provided two assists in 29 appearances so far for Real Sociedad. AS asked if they were talking to the same Carlos of Valencia in terms of form? And this is where he talks about West Ham.

“No, because Valencia’s Soler was younger, less mature and less experienced. It is true that at my age, I was already one of the captains of the team. I had been an important player for several seasons,” He said.

“I made the move to Paris. I stayed there for two years, then I moved to London and that helped me develop as a player. Maybe not in terms of playing time. This wasn’t what I expected when I went to Paris or London, but by all means. Leaving the house, being alone with your partner, having different experiences. Being in other leagues, in other locker rooms has helped me a lot.

“This version, I don’t know what to call it, ‘Carlos Soler 3.0’, has nothing to do with the first one at Valencia. I understand the comparisons in terms of statistics, minutes played, etc., but I honestly believe that the current version is a better version.”

Solar contracts, prices and agent information

The Spaniard has signed a contract until 2029, with the option of a further year with the La Liga side and agency AS1 manages his future.

Although Soler’s playing time has improved, his evaluation has not. transfermarket He was valued at €20m when he joined West Ham and will drop to €18m in May 2025.

Since joining La Real, it fell to €12m and then to €8m in December.

The main point of discussion in this NBA Draft cycle is who will be the number one overall pick, with three candidates separating themselves from the group. All of those players are new: Kansas Jayhawks guard Darrin Peterson, BYU small forward AJ DiBuntsa, and Duke power forward Cameron Boozer.

Recently, Boozer’s father Carlos, who enjoyed a successful NBA career in his own right, teared up at the thought of what such a special prospect his son was going through.

“There aren’t a lot of guys that can be on the biggest stage in college basketball like Duke basketball as an 18-year-old.” [and] What comes with it – and the whole team will follow,” says Andscape’s Mark J. Boozer said, according to Spears. “You know why they do this to Cameron? Because he gives a lot to the game. He gives a lot to his team. No matter what, he’s an unselfish superstar and that means the NBA.”

Boozer also named some NBA legends to illustrate what his son brings to the table.

“”You look at what Tim Duncan did. I’m not comparing Cameron to Tim Duncan, but he was another guy who wasn’t [athletically] Kevin Garnett or Tracy McGrady or Kobe Bryant or Shaquille O’Neal. But do you know what he did? They won five championships in that era…”

Indeed, Tim Duncan has long been the standard for power forward dominance in the NBA, despite him not being an athletic freak by league standards.

Boozer hopes to bring the same level of consistency and defensive prowess to whichever team selects him this June. Whether he goes first, second or third could depend on which team gets the number one overall pick, and what their needs are.

West Brom have a way of bringing Carlos Corberán back to the club, if they can wait for him.

At least that’s the case if the latest news from Tribuna Deportiva is to be believed. The Spanish outlet covers the Valencia boss today and what his future holds at Valencia ‘Uncertain for next year’.

They point out that controversy over Corberán’s future continues, even though Valencia has escaped the relegation zone after wins against Getafe, Espanyol and Levante.

This improvement in the standings has not resulted in a clear improvement in the team’s performance. This has proved disappointing despite reinforcements signed in the January transfer window.

Why are there doubts in Valencia?

Corberon’s record has been inconsistent, to say the least. The club has reiterated its support CEO Ron Gourley insisted they were not considering his dismissal.

However, behind the scenes, doubts are beginning to emerge at various levels at the club over his continuity beyond this season. This comes after a disagreement over signatures in January. This led to the feeling that Corberan was not the person to ‘lead the project’.

However, any dismissal will not come cheap. Valencia does not have a clause that allows them to terminate his contract without cost.

The Spanish club will have to pay at least his salary for next season unless they can reach an agreement.

Presents an opportunity for West Brom

This could give West Brom a chance to bring Corberran back. If they decide to split in the summer they could offer money to satisfy both parties.

The Baggies are back on the lookout for a new manager after sacking Eric Ramsey after just 44 days. In fact, things have gotten much worse since Corberon left in December 2024. And he hardly had a fun time in Valencia either.

Now the Spanish side are considering parting ways in the summer, with the Baggies being given the chance to reunite if they are willing to wait.

A well-known New York sports commentator offered an interesting idea this week. Is Carlos Mendoza’s replacement as New York Mets manager waiting in the wings on his staff?

Mendoza faced a difficult task when he had to replace Buck Showalter as manager of the NY Mets in 2024. However, in his first season in Queens after being the bench coach for the New York Yankees, the 46-year-old led the club on a magical trip to the NLCS. It seemed as if the team had found the person to be its captain for the next decade.

Then in 2025 the story changed completely on Mendoza. After adding Juan Soto to the roster heading into the 2024 NLCS, the NY Mets looked like one of the best teams in MLB in the first half. However, the manager could not pull the right levers and save them from a surprise relegation at the end of the season, resulting in missing the playoffs entirely.

While there were rumors that Mendoza might lose his job due to the team’s poor performance, the team instead decided to retain him but completely changed their coaching staff. One of the interesting appointments they made in October was Kai Correa. A man who has been the bench coach and interim manager for the San Francisco Giants and was a key part of the Cleveland Guardians’ staff in 2024.

Is Kai Correa ready to replace Carlos Mendoza if the NY Mets stumble early this season?

Many view Correa as an up-and-coming MLB coach, and at only 37 years old, he is a savvy kid in the industry. That’s why popular WFAN morning radio host Greg Gianotti suggested this week that Correa was specifically hired to take over for Mendoza if the NY Mets get off to a bad start in 2026.

Gianotti claimed, “I think if the Mets have a bad start, or say they’re under .500 around Memorial Day, Carlos Mendoza is going to be fired and this guy Kai Correa is going to be the manager.” “I said this when they hired this guy because he has no connection to the current Mets or Carlos Mendoza.

“He’s an analytics guy who has come up through the ranks. It’s almost as if David Stearns said, ‘Let’s get this guy on our staff now because in a few years he’s going to be a manager somewhere else.’

This is a sensible idea. And there’s no doubt that Mendoza will be on a very short leash and will have to get results with a very expensive and talented NY Mets roster.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

卡勒姆·沃爾什 (Callum Walsh) 和卡洛斯·奧坎波 (Carlos Ocampo) 是達納·懷特 (Dana White) 首屆祖法拳擊賽事的主角。

沃爾什將自己的不敗紀錄置於危險之中，他將迎戰祖法拳擊隊 Z01 卡上的 41 場比賽的墨西哥人。

3

沃爾什上一次比賽時，在卡內洛·阿爾瓦雷斯對陣特倫斯·克勞福德的底牌比賽中，他以一致判定戰勝了小費爾南多·巴爾加斯。

奧坎波是一位經驗豐富的競選者，僅被小埃羅爾·斯彭斯擊敗過， Sebastian Fundora 和 Tim Tszyu 迄今為止已參加 41 場比賽。

墨西哥人在自己的祖國對陣有限的對手時連續三場比賽獲勝，但他希望給達納·懷特（Dana White）最長久的拳擊前景帶來重擊。

沃爾什將在就職法案中尋求一份聲明，懷特表示他支持在這項運動中統治世界的合適人選。

祖法拳擊隊的首張卡片被計劃作為 2026 年首場 UFC 賽事——帕迪·平布利特 (Paddy Pimblett) 對陣賈斯汀·加瑟傑 (Justin Gaethje) 的前奏，該賽事將於一天后舉行。

沃爾什 vs 奧坎波：日期和觀看地點

沃爾什對陣奧坎波的比賽將於 1 月 23 日星期五在拉斯維加斯 UFC Apex 舉行。

所有的動作都將在美國的派拉蒙+上直播，粉絲們可以作為常規派拉蒙+訂閱的一部分觀看。

截至撰寫本文時，針對英國球迷的轉播信息尚未得到證實。