The split-finger fastball is experiencing a resurgence in Major League Baseball, particularly highlighted by its prominent use in the postseason. As the World Series heads into Game 6, starting pitchers Kevin Gausman of Toronto and Yoshinobu Yamamoto have been at the forefront of this trend, with postseason usage of the pitch doubling compared to last year. During the regular season, Toronto utilized splitters a league-high 9.3% of the time, while Gausman has increased his splitter usage to an impressive 41.4% in the playoffs.
Historically popularized by pitchers like Bruce Sutter and Jack Morris, the split-finger fastball saw a decline in use due to injury concerns. However, advancements in pitching techniques have enabled modern pitchers to grip and deploy the pitch more effectively, contributing to its revival.
In other sports news, Lamar Jackson returned from injury to lead the Baltimore Ravens to a commanding 28-6 victory over the Miami Dolphins. Jackson threw for 204 yards and four touchdowns, completing 18 of 23 passes in his first start since a right hamstring strain sidelined him after Week 4. Tight end Mark Andrews contributed significantly with two touchdown receptions, while tight end Charlie Kolar and receiver Rashod Bateman each caught a touchdown pass. The Dolphins’ performance suffered due to multiple mistakes in the first half, further complicating their season.
In a surprising shift in college athletics, Scott Woodward, the athletic director at Louisiana State University (LSU), has resigned under pressure just days after the firing of football coach Brian Kelly. Woodward, who has held the position since April 2019, oversaw a period during which LSU secured two national championships in baseball and one in football, women’s basketball, and gymnastics. His departure raises questions about the future direction of the athletic program.
The World Series could see another star player, Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers, take on a new role if Game 7 becomes necessary. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is contemplating using Ohtani as either an opener or an outfielder. After throwing 93 pitches in Game 4, Ohtani may be available in relief, although he has never pitched in relief in Major League Baseball. His ability to balance both pitching and hitting continues to be a point of interest.
Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama showcased his talent as he led the San Antonio Spurs to a historic 5-0 start, scoring 27 points and grabbing 18 rebounds in a 107-101 victory over the Miami Heat. This marks the first time in franchise history that the Spurs have opened a season with five consecutive wins. The game featured a notable performance from Heat center Bam Adebayo, who scored 31 points and pulled down 10 rebounds.
In a significant development for the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), the league and its players’ union have reached a 30-day extension to negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement. The current agreement was set to expire, and the extension allows both parties to continue discussions amid rising tensions.
In collegiate football, Texas quarterback Arch Manning is making progress in practice following a concussion sustained last week. However, his availability for the upcoming game against No. 9 Vanderbilt remains uncertain. If Manning cannot play, backup quarterback Matthew Caldwell is expected to start.
In a more serious note, Nikola Topic of the Oklahoma City Thunder has been diagnosed with testicular cancer and is currently undergoing chemotherapy. Sam Presti, the team’s general manager, reported that doctors are optimistic about Topic’s long-term prognosis. The player, who missed the previous season due to a torn ACL, had previously undergone a procedure related to his diagnosis.
Lastly, Mark Walter has finalized his purchase of a majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers, with the NBA Board of Governors approving the transaction. The sale, originally announced in June, marks a significant moment for the franchise. Jeanie Buss will continue as the team’s governor, managing day-to-day operations for at least the next five years.
As the sports world evolves, these stories highlight the dynamic nature of athletics, from strategic shifts in gameplay to significant leadership changes in organizations.
