Ben Clarke, Author at SportzBonanza SportzBonanza Mon, 21 Apr 2025 12:57:49 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler Propel the Warriors to 95-85 Win Over the Rockets https://sportzbonanza.com/stephen-curry-and-jimmy-butler-propel-the-warriors-to-95-85-win-over-the-rockets/ Mon, 21 Apr 2025 12:45:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26262 Warriors' guard Stephen Curry in 2018The experience of Golden State Warriors stars Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler proved to be a determining factor in a 95-85 win over the young Houston Rockets in Game 1 of the first-round playoff series between the two teams. The Rockets relied on aggressiveness and physicality to deliver a strong first quarter that saw them […]

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The experience of Golden State Warriors stars Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler proved to be a determining factor in a 95-85 win over the young Houston Rockets in Game 1 of the first-round playoff series between the two teams.

The Rockets relied on aggressiveness and physicality to deliver a strong first quarter that saw them lead by 13 points at one point. However, the Warriors quickly settled into the rhythm to slow down their opponents with smart defense while Curry and Butler took turns making one big shot after another.

Golden State took a commanding lead by the end of the first half and was up by 23 points in the third quarter. Houston eventually managed to cut down the lead to nine entering the fourth quarter but couldn’t complete a comeback.

Curry led the way for the Warriors with a game-high 31 points while adding six assists and six rebounds. Butler had 25 points, seven rebounds, and six assists.

“In order for us to win basketball games it requires Steph Curry to be great,” Golden State’s Draymond Green said after the game. “And he was just that.”

“(Curry) just made some amazing plays and obviously carried us offensively along with Jimmy,” Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr added.

Game 2 between the seventh-seeded Warriors and second-seeded Rockets is scheduled for Wednesday before the series moves to San Francisco for Games 3 and 4.  

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Blue Jays and Star 1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Agree on a 14-Year, $500 Million Contract https://sportzbonanza.com/blue-jays-and-star-1b-vladimir-guerrero-jr-agree-on-a-14-year-500-million-contract/ Mon, 07 Apr 2025 09:59:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26219 Vladimir Guerrero Jr. with the Buffalo Bisons in 2018Star first-baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is staying in Toronto after all. According to multiple reports, the Blue Jays and Guerrero Jr. came to an agreement on a new long-term contract.  ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports that Guerrero Jr. signed a 14-year, $500 million deal with no deferrals attached. This becomes the third-largest contract in MLB history, […]

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Star first-baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is staying in Toronto after all. According to multiple reports, the Blue Jays and Guerrero Jr. came to an agreement on a new long-term contract. 

ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports that Guerrero Jr. signed a 14-year, $500 million deal with no deferrals attached. This becomes the third-largest contract in MLB history, following Juan Soto’s 15-year, $765 million contract with the New York Mets and the 10-year, $700 million deal that Shohei Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Blue Jays and Guerrero Jr. have been engaged in contract talks for several years now. The negotiations intensified after the 2024 season, but the two sides failed to come to an agreement before spring training, at which point Guerrero Jr. decided to halt the talks. However, they eventually returned to the table and managed to hammer out a deal that satisfied both sides.

Guerrero Jr., who was scheduled to hit the free agency next winter, started 2025 slower than usual. In 10 games so far, he has a .256 batting average and three RBI while still waiting on his first homer.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the son of Angels’ legend and Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero, signed with the Blue Jays in 2015 as an international free agent. Guerrero Jr. made his majors debut in 2019 and received his first All-Star nod in 2021 when he also led the league in homers and finished second in MVP voting. He would go on to earn three more All-Star appearances and two All-MLB First Team nods.

Since debuting in MLB, Guerrero Jr. is batting .287 and has 160 home runs and 511 RBIs.

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Red Bull Plans to Replace Liam Lawson With Yuki Tsunoda After Early Struggles https://sportzbonanza.com/red-bull-plans-to-replace-liam-lawson-with-yuki-tsunoda-after-early-struggles/ Thu, 27 Mar 2025 06:43:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26193 Yuki Tsunoda of Racing Bulls during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco in May 2024Two races into the 2025 Formula One season and Red Bull appears to have already lost patience with its young driver Liam Lawson. According to multiple reports, the team plans to replace Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda, who races for their sister team Racing Bulls. The switch is expected to take place before the Japanese Grand […]

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Two races into the 2025 Formula One season and Red Bull appears to have already lost patience with its young driver Liam Lawson. According to multiple reports, the team plans to replace Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda, who races for their sister team Racing Bulls.

The switch is expected to take place before the Japanese Grand Prix, Tsunoda’s home race, which is scheduled to take place at the end of next week. Tsunoda will become the running mate of current world champion Max Verstappen while Lawson will take a seat with Racing Bulls alongside Isack Hadjar.

Tsunoda was in the mix to begin the season as a Red Bull driver, but the team opted for Lawson. They believed that the New Zealand driver had a higher ceiling despite his limited F1 experience. However, this decision backfired spectacularly.

Lawson qualified at No.18 at the Australian GP before crashing and failing to finish the race. He then came last in sprint and qualifiers for the Chinese GP, finishing the race at No.16. Meanwhile, Verstappen finished second and fourth, respectively, despite driving the same car.

Tsunoda made his F1 debut in 2021. His best performance came in 2024 when he was 12th at the end of the season. He failed to finish in points in the first two races of the 2025 season but was impressive at the Chinese GP sprint, finishing 6th.

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Pirates Name Paul Skenes Their Opening Day Starter Against the Marlins https://sportzbonanza.com/pirates-name-paul-skenes-their-opening-day-starter-against-the-marlins/ Sat, 15 Mar 2025 17:43:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26168 Paul Skenes with the Pittsburgh Pirates in June 2024The Pittsburgh Pirates didn’t tinker too much when it came to choosing their Opening Day starter for the 2025 MLB season. The team announced on Saturday that Paul Skenes, the reigning NL Rookie of the Year, will take on the assignment when the Pirates open their season against the Miami Marlins on March 27. The […]

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The Pittsburgh Pirates didn’t tinker too much when it came to choosing their Opening Day starter for the 2025 MLB season. The team announced on Saturday that Paul Skenes, the reigning NL Rookie of the Year, will take on the assignment when the Pirates open their season against the Miami Marlins on March 27.

The Pirates made the announcement via video shared on their social media. In the clip, Skenes visits manager Derek Shelton in his office, who proceeds to tell him the news after a brief conversation.

Skenes was somewhat of an obvious choice considering he delivered one of the best rookie seasons in recent memories in 2024. Despite being promoted to the majors in May, Skenes compiled an 11-3 record as a starter and finished the season with a 1.96 ERA and 170 strikeouts. He earned an All-Star nod, was named the National League Rookie of the Year, and finished in the top 3 of Cy Young Award voting. 

“I think he deserves it from what he did last year, the way he’s performed. I think we have a really good rotation with some other guys who can do it. Mitch [Keller] has done it in the past and has done a really good job. Just felt like Paul was the best choice,” Shelton said about his decision.

When he takes the mound against the Marlins, Skenes will be the youngest Opening Day starter for the Pirates since at least the beginning of the 20th century at the age of 22 years and 302 days.

 “It was a goal, for sure,” Skenes added. “Cool thing to put on the record, but it doesn’t mean anything if we don’t go out there and win, so I’ve got to go out there and pitch well.”

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San Francisco 49ers Trade All-Pro WR Deebo Samuel to Commanders for a Fifth-Round Pick https://sportzbonanza.com/san-francisco-49ers-trade-all-pro-wr-deebo-samuel-to-commanders-for-a-fifth-round-pick/ Mon, 03 Mar 2025 06:01:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26135 San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel in 2019The San Francisco 49ers reportedly agreed to trade their All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders. The 49ers will receive a fifth-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft in exchange. Samuel previously requested a trade from the 49ers after an exit interview with head coach Kyle Shanahan. The wideout wanted a change of […]

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The San Francisco 49ers reportedly agreed to trade their All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders. The 49ers will receive a fifth-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft in exchange.

Samuel previously requested a trade from the 49ers after an exit interview with head coach Kyle Shanahan. The wideout wanted a change of scenery after a disappointing campaign while his non-guaranteed salary for 2025, the last year of his contract, also played a part.

The Commanders are now committed to paying Samuel $17.5 million in 2025 while the 49ers are set to take a $31.5 million dead money hit due to a contract restructure from September.

Samuel emerged as one of the most versatile offensive players in the league since being selected in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He had his best season as a pro in 2021, earning First-Team All-Pro honors and Pro Bowl selection after having 77 catches for 1,405 yards and adding 14 touchdowns from scrimmage.

However, Samuel’s production dipped since then and he failed to reach 900 yards receiving in any of the past three seasons. Last season he had 61 catches for 670 yards and three TDs.

The Commanders now hope that they can help Samuel rediscover his past form and have him as one of the top weapons on offense for their talented young quarterback Jayden Daniels.

The 49ers, on the other hand, got the most they could for a player who was already a strong candidate for being released. 

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Venus Williams Set to Return to Tennis at the 2025 Indian Wells https://sportzbonanza.com/venus-williams-set-to-return-to-tennis-at-the-2025-indian-wells/ Thu, 20 Feb 2025 06:18:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26121 Venus Williams during the Australian Open in 2019Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams is expected to make her tennis return at this year’s Indian Wells. According to the official announcement, Williams received a wild-card initiation and will be part of the main draw for the 2025 edition of the tournament, which is now known as the BNP Paribas Open. Two-time Wimbledon winner […]

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Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams is expected to make her tennis return at this year’s Indian Wells.

According to the official announcement, Williams received a wild-card initiation and will be part of the main draw for the 2025 edition of the tournament, which is now known as the BNP Paribas Open. Two-time Wimbledon winner Petra Kvitova also received a wild-card entry in women’s singles.

Williams last competed at the Miami Open in March of last year, being eliminated in the first round after losing in straight sets to Diana Shnaider. She hasn’t played an official match since then, sparking rumors about her potential retirement.

Williams has nine Indian Wells appearances in her storied career, reaching the semi-finals on three occasions. Her last appearance came in 2024 and ended with a first-round loss against Nao Hibino.

Williams boycotted the tournament from 2002 to 2015 after an incident in 2001. She was forced to withdraw from the semi-final match against her sister Serena due to a knee injury and ended up being heavily booed by the crowd while attending the finals.

Making her debut in 1994, Venus Williams won five Wimbledon titles and two US Open titles throughout her career. She made nine more Grand Slam finals appearances, the last of which came in 2017 at the Australian Open.

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Raptors Sign Newly-Acquired Forward Brandon Ingram to 3-Year, $120 Million Extension https://sportzbonanza.com/raptors-sign-newly-acquired-forward-brandon-ingram-to-3-year-120-million-extension/ Thu, 13 Feb 2025 06:23:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26108 Brandon Ingram at the Levi's Annual Ball-B-Que during All Star Weekend in February 2020The Toronto Raptors have locked newly-acquired forward Brandon Ingram to a multi-year contract extension. Ingram, who was set to become a free agent this upcoming summer, joined the Raptors in a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans last week. The Raptors didn’t disclose the financial terms of the deal, but ESPN’s Shams Charania reports that […]

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The Toronto Raptors have locked newly-acquired forward Brandon Ingram to a multi-year contract extension. Ingram, who was set to become a free agent this upcoming summer, joined the Raptors in a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans last week.

The Raptors didn’t disclose the financial terms of the deal, but ESPN’s Shams Charania reports that Ingram’s extension is for three years and $120 million with a player option for 2027-28. He is making $36 million this season.

“Improving every day is the ethos of our team, and we believe the long-term addition of Brandon improves us greatly,” Raptors general manager Bobby Webster said in a statement. “We’ve spoken about his elite scoring and playmaking; we’re looking forward to seeing that mesh with the talents we already have on our roster – and we’re thrilled that Brandon wants to be a Raptor as much as we want him here in Toronto.”

The Raptors traded veterans Bruce Brown and Kelly Olynyk alongside a 2026 first-round pick and a 2031 second-rounder to the Pelicans in exchange for Ingram. By signing him to a new deal, they ensure he becomes part of the team’s exciting young core, which includes All-Star Scottie Barnes and the talented duo of Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett, for the foreseeable future.

Ingram was limited to 18 games this season due to an ankle sprain and is averaging 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game. This makes him one of just six players who averaged at least 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists in each of the past four campaigns.

Brandon Ingram entered the league in 2016 as the second overall pick by the Los Angeles Lakers. He spent three seasons with the Lakers before joining the Pelicans in a blockbuster deal that sent superstar Anthony Davis in the opposite direction. Ingram’s best season as a pro came in 2019-20, when he averaged 23.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists en route to his first and only All-Star appearance and Most Improve Player of the Year award.

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Bengals’ All-Pro LB Trey Hendrickson Reiterates His Desire for a New Contract https://sportzbonanza.com/bengals-all-pro-lb-trey-hendrickson-reiterates-his-desire-for-a-new-contract/ Thu, 06 Feb 2025 06:22:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26088 Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson in September 2022Cincinnati Bengals All-Pro linebacker Trey Hendrickson once again reiterated his desire for a new deal. During Wednesday’s appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Hendrickson said he expects the franchise to address his contract situation or send him to a team that is willing to do so. Hendrickson was unhappy with his deal last offseason as […]

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Cincinnati Bengals All-Pro linebacker Trey Hendrickson once again reiterated his desire for a new deal. During Wednesday’s appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Hendrickson said he expects the franchise to address his contract situation or send him to a team that is willing to do so.

Hendrickson was unhappy with his deal last offseason as well and even demanded a trade saying he wants long-term security. However, the Bengals didn’t honor his request and he responded by delivering the best season of his career in 2024.

Hendrickson now hopes that the Bengals will be more appreciative of his contributions to the team this offseason, one way or another. 

“If it’s something we can agree on in terms, that would be great. Ideally, my wife and I would love to stay in Cincinnati,” Hendrickson said. “If it’s something that helps the Bengals win the Super Bowl, if they get picks or anything like that, I want to help win a Super Bowl for Cincinnati, whether I’m there or not.”

Bengals’ front office previously expressed intention to negotiate with Hendrickson but there is doubt about whether they are willing to give him the number he wants. The franchise also needs to work out new deals for star receiver Ja’Marr Chase and their No. 2 wideout Tee Higgins.

“We can’t have guys at the top of the payroll in every position, right? We’ll do what we can. We’ll do what we what we feel is right, and we will try to get Trey re-signed,” Bengals Director player of Personnel Duke Tobin said in a recent interview.

Trey Hendrickson spent the first four years of his career with the New Orleans Saints, who drafted him in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He signed with the Bengals as a free agent ahead of the 2021 season and went on to deliver four straight Pro Bowl campaigns. Hendrickson finished the 2024 season with a league-leading 17.5 sacks and career highs in tackles (46) and pass deflections (6).

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Mikko Rantanen Leaves Avalanche for Hurricanes in Three-Way Megadeal https://sportzbonanza.com/mikko-rantanen-leaves-avalanche-for-hurricanes-in-three-way-megadeal/ Sun, 26 Jan 2025 06:55:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26066 Mikko Rantanen made a name for himself and won the Stanley Cup during his time with the Colorado Avalanche, but he’s ready to move on. The Finnish ice hockey star will join the Carolina Hurricanes, after being traded by the Avalanche in a three-way megadeal. The Hurricanes acquired Rantanen and Chicago Blackhawks’ left winger Taylor […]

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Mikko Rantanen made a name for himself and won the Stanley Cup during his time with the Colorado Avalanche, but he’s ready to move on. The Finnish ice hockey star will join the Carolina Hurricanes, after being traded by the Avalanche in a three-way megadeal.

The Hurricanes acquired Rantanen and Chicago Blackhawks’ left winger Taylor Hall in a blockbuster deal, which saw Colorado receive Carolina’s winger Martin Necas and center Jack Drury, along with a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-round pick. The Blackhawks also received a third-round pick in 2025 from The Hurricanes as a part of this three-way megadeal.

The Hurricanes are gearing up to hold preliminary extension talks with Rantanen, and they’re the only team eligible to give him an eight-year deal. It’s been reported he’s asking for an average annual value of around $14 million, which would mark a significant raise from his current salary of $9.25 million.

Mikko Rantanen made his NHL debut in 2015, after joining the Colorado Avalanche as the 10th overall pick in the first round of the 2015 NHL draft. He helped the team win their first Stanley Cup in over two decades in 2022 and scored 64 points (25 goals, 39 assists) in 49 games this season, ranking sixth in the league.

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Ohio State Beat Notre Dame to Claim First National Title in 10 Years https://sportzbonanza.com/ohio-state-beat-notre-dame-to-claim-first-national-title-in-10-years/ Tue, 21 Jan 2025 09:14:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26052 Ohio State quarterback Will Howard throws a pass in the 2nd quarter against Notre Dame in the 2024-25 College Football Playoff National Championship Game in January 2025It’s been over a decade since the last time Ohio State won college football’s national championship, but their dry spell is finally over. The Buckeyes managed to hold off the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Monday night to win their first national championship since 2014 and the ninth title overall. The latest face-off between Ohio […]

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It’s been over a decade since the last time Ohio State won college football’s national championship, but their dry spell is finally over. The Buckeyes managed to hold off the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Monday night to win their first national championship since 2014 and the ninth title overall.

The latest face-off between Ohio State and Notre Dame kept us on the edge of our seats, but the Buckeyes eventually claimed a 34-23 victory at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. They were leading by 31-7 midway through the third quarter, but things took a wild turn after the Irish managed to trim the deficit and tried to make a comeback in the fourth quarter.

Buckeyes coach Ryan Day praised the players for overcoming some really tough situations throughout the season and keeping up the good fight even after everyone counted them out.

“After all the things that have been said throughout the year, these guys are going to be cemented as one of the best stories in Ohio State history and one of the best football teams ever. There was a point where not a lot of people had that vision, but these guys did, and they saw it through,” said Day.

This victory brings the Buckeyes to a total of nine national championships, and it’s their first title win since 2014.

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ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> Ben Clarke, Author at SportzBonanza SportzBonanza Mon, 21 Apr 2025 12:57:49 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler Propel the Warriors to 95-85 Win Over the Rockets https://sportzbonanza.com/stephen-curry-and-jimmy-butler-propel-the-warriors-to-95-85-win-over-the-rockets/ Mon, 21 Apr 2025 12:45:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26262 Warriors' guard Stephen Curry in 2018The experience of Golden State Warriors stars Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler proved to be a determining factor in a 95-85 win over the young Houston Rockets in Game 1 of the first-round playoff series between the two teams. The Rockets relied on aggressiveness and physicality to deliver a strong first quarter that saw them […]

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The experience of Golden State Warriors stars Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler proved to be a determining factor in a 95-85 win over the young Houston Rockets in Game 1 of the first-round playoff series between the two teams.

The Rockets relied on aggressiveness and physicality to deliver a strong first quarter that saw them lead by 13 points at one point. However, the Warriors quickly settled into the rhythm to slow down their opponents with smart defense while Curry and Butler took turns making one big shot after another.

Golden State took a commanding lead by the end of the first half and was up by 23 points in the third quarter. Houston eventually managed to cut down the lead to nine entering the fourth quarter but couldn’t complete a comeback.

Curry led the way for the Warriors with a game-high 31 points while adding six assists and six rebounds. Butler had 25 points, seven rebounds, and six assists.

“In order for us to win basketball games it requires Steph Curry to be great,” Golden State’s Draymond Green said after the game. “And he was just that.”

“(Curry) just made some amazing plays and obviously carried us offensively along with Jimmy,” Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr added.

Game 2 between the seventh-seeded Warriors and second-seeded Rockets is scheduled for Wednesday before the series moves to San Francisco for Games 3 and 4.  

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Blue Jays and Star 1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Agree on a 14-Year, $500 Million Contract https://sportzbonanza.com/blue-jays-and-star-1b-vladimir-guerrero-jr-agree-on-a-14-year-500-million-contract/ Mon, 07 Apr 2025 09:59:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26219 Vladimir Guerrero Jr. with the Buffalo Bisons in 2018Star first-baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is staying in Toronto after all. According to multiple reports, the Blue Jays and Guerrero Jr. came to an agreement on a new long-term contract.  ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports that Guerrero Jr. signed a 14-year, $500 million deal with no deferrals attached. This becomes the third-largest contract in MLB history, […]

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Star first-baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is staying in Toronto after all. According to multiple reports, the Blue Jays and Guerrero Jr. came to an agreement on a new long-term contract. 

ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports that Guerrero Jr. signed a 14-year, $500 million deal with no deferrals attached. This becomes the third-largest contract in MLB history, following Juan Soto’s 15-year, $765 million contract with the New York Mets and the 10-year, $700 million deal that Shohei Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Blue Jays and Guerrero Jr. have been engaged in contract talks for several years now. The negotiations intensified after the 2024 season, but the two sides failed to come to an agreement before spring training, at which point Guerrero Jr. decided to halt the talks. However, they eventually returned to the table and managed to hammer out a deal that satisfied both sides.

Guerrero Jr., who was scheduled to hit the free agency next winter, started 2025 slower than usual. In 10 games so far, he has a .256 batting average and three RBI while still waiting on his first homer.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the son of Angels’ legend and Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero, signed with the Blue Jays in 2015 as an international free agent. Guerrero Jr. made his majors debut in 2019 and received his first All-Star nod in 2021 when he also led the league in homers and finished second in MVP voting. He would go on to earn three more All-Star appearances and two All-MLB First Team nods.

Since debuting in MLB, Guerrero Jr. is batting .287 and has 160 home runs and 511 RBIs.

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Red Bull Plans to Replace Liam Lawson With Yuki Tsunoda After Early Struggles https://sportzbonanza.com/red-bull-plans-to-replace-liam-lawson-with-yuki-tsunoda-after-early-struggles/ Thu, 27 Mar 2025 06:43:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26193 Yuki Tsunoda of Racing Bulls during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco in May 2024Two races into the 2025 Formula One season and Red Bull appears to have already lost patience with its young driver Liam Lawson. According to multiple reports, the team plans to replace Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda, who races for their sister team Racing Bulls. The switch is expected to take place before the Japanese Grand […]

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Two races into the 2025 Formula One season and Red Bull appears to have already lost patience with its young driver Liam Lawson. According to multiple reports, the team plans to replace Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda, who races for their sister team Racing Bulls.

The switch is expected to take place before the Japanese Grand Prix, Tsunoda’s home race, which is scheduled to take place at the end of next week. Tsunoda will become the running mate of current world champion Max Verstappen while Lawson will take a seat with Racing Bulls alongside Isack Hadjar.

Tsunoda was in the mix to begin the season as a Red Bull driver, but the team opted for Lawson. They believed that the New Zealand driver had a higher ceiling despite his limited F1 experience. However, this decision backfired spectacularly.

Lawson qualified at No.18 at the Australian GP before crashing and failing to finish the race. He then came last in sprint and qualifiers for the Chinese GP, finishing the race at No.16. Meanwhile, Verstappen finished second and fourth, respectively, despite driving the same car.

Tsunoda made his F1 debut in 2021. His best performance came in 2024 when he was 12th at the end of the season. He failed to finish in points in the first two races of the 2025 season but was impressive at the Chinese GP sprint, finishing 6th.

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Pirates Name Paul Skenes Their Opening Day Starter Against the Marlins https://sportzbonanza.com/pirates-name-paul-skenes-their-opening-day-starter-against-the-marlins/ Sat, 15 Mar 2025 17:43:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26168 Paul Skenes with the Pittsburgh Pirates in June 2024The Pittsburgh Pirates didn’t tinker too much when it came to choosing their Opening Day starter for the 2025 MLB season. The team announced on Saturday that Paul Skenes, the reigning NL Rookie of the Year, will take on the assignment when the Pirates open their season against the Miami Marlins on March 27. The […]

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The Pittsburgh Pirates didn’t tinker too much when it came to choosing their Opening Day starter for the 2025 MLB season. The team announced on Saturday that Paul Skenes, the reigning NL Rookie of the Year, will take on the assignment when the Pirates open their season against the Miami Marlins on March 27.

The Pirates made the announcement via video shared on their social media. In the clip, Skenes visits manager Derek Shelton in his office, who proceeds to tell him the news after a brief conversation.

Skenes was somewhat of an obvious choice considering he delivered one of the best rookie seasons in recent memories in 2024. Despite being promoted to the majors in May, Skenes compiled an 11-3 record as a starter and finished the season with a 1.96 ERA and 170 strikeouts. He earned an All-Star nod, was named the National League Rookie of the Year, and finished in the top 3 of Cy Young Award voting. 

“I think he deserves it from what he did last year, the way he’s performed. I think we have a really good rotation with some other guys who can do it. Mitch [Keller] has done it in the past and has done a really good job. Just felt like Paul was the best choice,” Shelton said about his decision.

When he takes the mound against the Marlins, Skenes will be the youngest Opening Day starter for the Pirates since at least the beginning of the 20th century at the age of 22 years and 302 days.

 “It was a goal, for sure,” Skenes added. “Cool thing to put on the record, but it doesn’t mean anything if we don’t go out there and win, so I’ve got to go out there and pitch well.”

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San Francisco 49ers Trade All-Pro WR Deebo Samuel to Commanders for a Fifth-Round Pick https://sportzbonanza.com/san-francisco-49ers-trade-all-pro-wr-deebo-samuel-to-commanders-for-a-fifth-round-pick/ Mon, 03 Mar 2025 06:01:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26135 San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel in 2019The San Francisco 49ers reportedly agreed to trade their All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders. The 49ers will receive a fifth-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft in exchange. Samuel previously requested a trade from the 49ers after an exit interview with head coach Kyle Shanahan. The wideout wanted a change of […]

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The San Francisco 49ers reportedly agreed to trade their All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders. The 49ers will receive a fifth-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft in exchange.

Samuel previously requested a trade from the 49ers after an exit interview with head coach Kyle Shanahan. The wideout wanted a change of scenery after a disappointing campaign while his non-guaranteed salary for 2025, the last year of his contract, also played a part.

The Commanders are now committed to paying Samuel $17.5 million in 2025 while the 49ers are set to take a $31.5 million dead money hit due to a contract restructure from September.

Samuel emerged as one of the most versatile offensive players in the league since being selected in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He had his best season as a pro in 2021, earning First-Team All-Pro honors and Pro Bowl selection after having 77 catches for 1,405 yards and adding 14 touchdowns from scrimmage.

However, Samuel’s production dipped since then and he failed to reach 900 yards receiving in any of the past three seasons. Last season he had 61 catches for 670 yards and three TDs.

The Commanders now hope that they can help Samuel rediscover his past form and have him as one of the top weapons on offense for their talented young quarterback Jayden Daniels.

The 49ers, on the other hand, got the most they could for a player who was already a strong candidate for being released. 

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Venus Williams Set to Return to Tennis at the 2025 Indian Wells https://sportzbonanza.com/venus-williams-set-to-return-to-tennis-at-the-2025-indian-wells/ Thu, 20 Feb 2025 06:18:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26121 Venus Williams during the Australian Open in 2019Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams is expected to make her tennis return at this year’s Indian Wells. According to the official announcement, Williams received a wild-card initiation and will be part of the main draw for the 2025 edition of the tournament, which is now known as the BNP Paribas Open. Two-time Wimbledon winner […]

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Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams is expected to make her tennis return at this year’s Indian Wells.

According to the official announcement, Williams received a wild-card initiation and will be part of the main draw for the 2025 edition of the tournament, which is now known as the BNP Paribas Open. Two-time Wimbledon winner Petra Kvitova also received a wild-card entry in women’s singles.

Williams last competed at the Miami Open in March of last year, being eliminated in the first round after losing in straight sets to Diana Shnaider. She hasn’t played an official match since then, sparking rumors about her potential retirement.

Williams has nine Indian Wells appearances in her storied career, reaching the semi-finals on three occasions. Her last appearance came in 2024 and ended with a first-round loss against Nao Hibino.

Williams boycotted the tournament from 2002 to 2015 after an incident in 2001. She was forced to withdraw from the semi-final match against her sister Serena due to a knee injury and ended up being heavily booed by the crowd while attending the finals.

Making her debut in 1994, Venus Williams won five Wimbledon titles and two US Open titles throughout her career. She made nine more Grand Slam finals appearances, the last of which came in 2017 at the Australian Open.

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Raptors Sign Newly-Acquired Forward Brandon Ingram to 3-Year, $120 Million Extension https://sportzbonanza.com/raptors-sign-newly-acquired-forward-brandon-ingram-to-3-year-120-million-extension/ Thu, 13 Feb 2025 06:23:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26108 Brandon Ingram at the Levi's Annual Ball-B-Que during All Star Weekend in February 2020The Toronto Raptors have locked newly-acquired forward Brandon Ingram to a multi-year contract extension. Ingram, who was set to become a free agent this upcoming summer, joined the Raptors in a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans last week. The Raptors didn’t disclose the financial terms of the deal, but ESPN’s Shams Charania reports that […]

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The Toronto Raptors have locked newly-acquired forward Brandon Ingram to a multi-year contract extension. Ingram, who was set to become a free agent this upcoming summer, joined the Raptors in a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans last week.

The Raptors didn’t disclose the financial terms of the deal, but ESPN’s Shams Charania reports that Ingram’s extension is for three years and $120 million with a player option for 2027-28. He is making $36 million this season.

“Improving every day is the ethos of our team, and we believe the long-term addition of Brandon improves us greatly,” Raptors general manager Bobby Webster said in a statement. “We’ve spoken about his elite scoring and playmaking; we’re looking forward to seeing that mesh with the talents we already have on our roster – and we’re thrilled that Brandon wants to be a Raptor as much as we want him here in Toronto.”

The Raptors traded veterans Bruce Brown and Kelly Olynyk alongside a 2026 first-round pick and a 2031 second-rounder to the Pelicans in exchange for Ingram. By signing him to a new deal, they ensure he becomes part of the team’s exciting young core, which includes All-Star Scottie Barnes and the talented duo of Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett, for the foreseeable future.

Ingram was limited to 18 games this season due to an ankle sprain and is averaging 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game. This makes him one of just six players who averaged at least 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists in each of the past four campaigns.

Brandon Ingram entered the league in 2016 as the second overall pick by the Los Angeles Lakers. He spent three seasons with the Lakers before joining the Pelicans in a blockbuster deal that sent superstar Anthony Davis in the opposite direction. Ingram’s best season as a pro came in 2019-20, when he averaged 23.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists en route to his first and only All-Star appearance and Most Improve Player of the Year award.

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Bengals’ All-Pro LB Trey Hendrickson Reiterates His Desire for a New Contract https://sportzbonanza.com/bengals-all-pro-lb-trey-hendrickson-reiterates-his-desire-for-a-new-contract/ Thu, 06 Feb 2025 06:22:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26088 Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson in September 2022Cincinnati Bengals All-Pro linebacker Trey Hendrickson once again reiterated his desire for a new deal. During Wednesday’s appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Hendrickson said he expects the franchise to address his contract situation or send him to a team that is willing to do so. Hendrickson was unhappy with his deal last offseason as […]

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Cincinnati Bengals All-Pro linebacker Trey Hendrickson once again reiterated his desire for a new deal. During Wednesday’s appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Hendrickson said he expects the franchise to address his contract situation or send him to a team that is willing to do so.

Hendrickson was unhappy with his deal last offseason as well and even demanded a trade saying he wants long-term security. However, the Bengals didn’t honor his request and he responded by delivering the best season of his career in 2024.

Hendrickson now hopes that the Bengals will be more appreciative of his contributions to the team this offseason, one way or another. 

“If it’s something we can agree on in terms, that would be great. Ideally, my wife and I would love to stay in Cincinnati,” Hendrickson said. “If it’s something that helps the Bengals win the Super Bowl, if they get picks or anything like that, I want to help win a Super Bowl for Cincinnati, whether I’m there or not.”

Bengals’ front office previously expressed intention to negotiate with Hendrickson but there is doubt about whether they are willing to give him the number he wants. The franchise also needs to work out new deals for star receiver Ja’Marr Chase and their No. 2 wideout Tee Higgins.

“We can’t have guys at the top of the payroll in every position, right? We’ll do what we can. We’ll do what we what we feel is right, and we will try to get Trey re-signed,” Bengals Director player of Personnel Duke Tobin said in a recent interview.

Trey Hendrickson spent the first four years of his career with the New Orleans Saints, who drafted him in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He signed with the Bengals as a free agent ahead of the 2021 season and went on to deliver four straight Pro Bowl campaigns. Hendrickson finished the 2024 season with a league-leading 17.5 sacks and career highs in tackles (46) and pass deflections (6).

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Mikko Rantanen Leaves Avalanche for Hurricanes in Three-Way Megadeal https://sportzbonanza.com/mikko-rantanen-leaves-avalanche-for-hurricanes-in-three-way-megadeal/ Sun, 26 Jan 2025 06:55:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26066 Mikko Rantanen made a name for himself and won the Stanley Cup during his time with the Colorado Avalanche, but he’s ready to move on. The Finnish ice hockey star will join the Carolina Hurricanes, after being traded by the Avalanche in a three-way megadeal. The Hurricanes acquired Rantanen and Chicago Blackhawks’ left winger Taylor […]

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Mikko Rantanen made a name for himself and won the Stanley Cup during his time with the Colorado Avalanche, but he’s ready to move on. The Finnish ice hockey star will join the Carolina Hurricanes, after being traded by the Avalanche in a three-way megadeal.

The Hurricanes acquired Rantanen and Chicago Blackhawks’ left winger Taylor Hall in a blockbuster deal, which saw Colorado receive Carolina’s winger Martin Necas and center Jack Drury, along with a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-round pick. The Blackhawks also received a third-round pick in 2025 from The Hurricanes as a part of this three-way megadeal.

The Hurricanes are gearing up to hold preliminary extension talks with Rantanen, and they’re the only team eligible to give him an eight-year deal. It’s been reported he’s asking for an average annual value of around $14 million, which would mark a significant raise from his current salary of $9.25 million.

Mikko Rantanen made his NHL debut in 2015, after joining the Colorado Avalanche as the 10th overall pick in the first round of the 2015 NHL draft. He helped the team win their first Stanley Cup in over two decades in 2022 and scored 64 points (25 goals, 39 assists) in 49 games this season, ranking sixth in the league.

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Ohio State Beat Notre Dame to Claim First National Title in 10 Years https://sportzbonanza.com/ohio-state-beat-notre-dame-to-claim-first-national-title-in-10-years/ Tue, 21 Jan 2025 09:14:00 +0000 https://sportzbonanza.com/?p=26052 Ohio State quarterback Will Howard throws a pass in the 2nd quarter against Notre Dame in the 2024-25 College Football Playoff National Championship Game in January 2025It’s been over a decade since the last time Ohio State won college football’s national championship, but their dry spell is finally over. The Buckeyes managed to hold off the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Monday night to win their first national championship since 2014 and the ninth title overall. The latest face-off between Ohio […]

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It’s been over a decade since the last time Ohio State won college football’s national championship, but their dry spell is finally over. The Buckeyes managed to hold off the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Monday night to win their first national championship since 2014 and the ninth title overall.

The latest face-off between Ohio State and Notre Dame kept us on the edge of our seats, but the Buckeyes eventually claimed a 34-23 victory at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. They were leading by 31-7 midway through the third quarter, but things took a wild turn after the Irish managed to trim the deficit and tried to make a comeback in the fourth quarter.

Buckeyes coach Ryan Day praised the players for overcoming some really tough situations throughout the season and keeping up the good fight even after everyone counted them out.

“After all the things that have been said throughout the year, these guys are going to be cemented as one of the best stories in Ohio State history and one of the best football teams ever. There was a point where not a lot of people had that vision, but these guys did, and they saw it through,” said Day.

This victory brings the Buckeyes to a total of nine national championships, and it’s their first title win since 2014.

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