Daily News 19

Category: Around the World

International news, world events, society, travel, and stories beyond the other editorial categories.

  • India vs Afghanistan 3rd T20I 2026: Live Scorecard, Toss Winner, Result & Highlights from Delhi

    India vs Afghanistan 3rd T20I 2026: Live Scorecard, Toss Winner, Result & Highlights from Delhi

    India vs Afghanistan 3rd T20I 2026 Live: Abhishek Sharma Explodes for 16-Ball Fifty as Hosts Dominate Powerplay

    India have raced to a commanding 100/0 after six overs in the third T20 International against Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, with opener Abhishek Sharma producing one of the most destructive powerplay displays in T20I history.

    Abhishek Sharma Rewrites Record Books in Powerplay Onslaught

    The left-handed opener reached his half-century in just 16 balls, striking at an astonishing 345.45. His innings has featured 8 fours and 7 sixes, with boundaries coming all around the ground. Afghanistan captain Ibrahim Zadran introduced veteran off-spinner Mohammad Nabi early to counter the left-hander, but the move backfired spectacularly as Nabi conceded 29 runs from his over.

    Toss and Team News: Afghanistan Bowl First

    Afghanistan won the toss and elected to field first at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The visitors are looking to avoid a clean sweep after India secured the series with comprehensive seven-wicket victories in the first two matches, both held at the same venue.

    India Playing XI

    • Sanju Samson (wk)
    • Abhishek Sharma
    • Ishan Kishan
    • Shreyas Iyer (c)
    • Tilak Varma
    • Nitish Kumar Reddy
    • Shivam Dube
    • Axar Patel
    • Ravi Bishnoi
    • Yash Thakur
    • Jasprit Bumrah

    Afghanistan Playing XI

    • Ibrahim Zadran (c)
    • Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
    • Sediqullah Atal
    • Abdullah Ahmadzai
    • Darwish Rasooli
    • Noor ul Rahman
    • Azmatullah Omarzai
    • Mohammad Nabi
    • Rashid Khan
    • Mujeeb Ur Rahman
    • Fazalhaq Farooqi

    Series Context and Selection Talking Points

    India have already clinched the three-match series 2-0. The final T20I provides an opportunity for squad rotation ahead of the Asian Games. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is in line for a potential home debut, while Sanju Samson cemented his place with a match-winning 22-ball 57 in the second T20I after a quiet start to the series.

    Varun Chakravarthy remains sidelined with the side strain sustained in the opening match, prompting the inclusion of Ravi Bishnoi in the previous game. The bowling attack continues to be reshuffled to manage workloads and provide game time to fringe players.

    Match Officials and Broadcast Details

    On-field umpires: Ahmad Shah Durrani and Ahmad Shah Pakhteen
    Third umpire: Izatullah Safi
    Reserve umpire: Mahmood Kharoti
    Match referee: Dean Cosker

    Live telecast: FanCode Premium, Sony Sports Network (India), Ariana TV, My e& App (Afghanistan), Cricbuzz (UAE), and JioHotstar (UK).

    Win Probability and Match Momentum

    Current win probability heavily favors the hosts:

    • India: 70%
    • Afghanistan: 30%

    Series Schedule and Results

    Match Date Time (IST) Venue Result
    1st T20I Sep 13, 2026 7:30 PM Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi India won by 7 wickets
    2nd T20I Sep 15, 2026 7:30 PM Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi India won by 7 wickets
    3rd T20I Sep 17, 2026 7:30 PM Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi In progress

    Follow ball-by-ball updates and key text commentary as the match continues at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

  • North Carolina Defensive Coordinator Steve Belichick Resigns as Investigation Concludes

    North Carolina Defensive Coordinator Steve Belichick Resigns as Investigation Concludes

    North Carolina defensive coordinator Steve Belichick has resigned amid the conclusion of an internal investigation into the football program’s culture under head coach Bill Belichick. The university announced the investigation’s findings Thursday alongside Belichick’s resignation, stating the probe revealed “isolated” disregard for program values and standards of conduct.

    University Statement on Investigation Findings

    In a statement released Thursday, the school characterized the issues as limited in scope.

    “These actions were isolated in scope and not a systemic failure,” the school said in a statement Thursday. “… All necessary corrective actions are now underway and will be overseen by Carolina Athletics and the Office of University Counsel. With these actions, the University considers the investigation to be resolved.”

    Investigation Scope and Personnel Changes

    According to multiple sources with direct knowledge of the proceedings, the investigation was wide-ranging and included questions about sexual relationships between staff and players as well as drug use within the program.

    Steve Belichick, 39, will officially leave the program on October 27, following the conclusion of his medical leave, which began August 6. The school did not specifically connect Belichick or former general manager Michael Lombardi, who also resigned earlier this month, to the investigation despite mentioning both in Thursday’s statement.

    Player Suspensions and Legal Issues

    Compounding the program’s off-field challenges, two UNC football players face charges following a traffic stop earlier this week. Keeyun Chapman was charged with carrying a concealed weapon, while C.J. Sadler was charged with speeding. A police report indicated this was Sadler’s third speeding citation in two months, and approximately 15 grams of marijuana was also found in the vehicle.

    Chapman has been suspended indefinitely, according to the school, and both players are listed as “out” on North Carolina’s availability report for this week’s game at Clemson.

    University Response to Player Discipline

    The school connected Chapman’s suspension to the broader accountability efforts.

    “Chapman’s suspension, like the actions resulting from the investigation, reflect the University’s commitment to accountability and the well-being of its student athletes,” the school said in a statement. “We believe the steps announced today will help make Carolina Football a stronger program and one that continues to earn the pride of the entire Carolina community.”

    On-Field Performance Amid Controversy

    Despite the numerous off-field controversies, North Carolina has opened the season 2-0 after wins over TCU and East Tennessee State.

  • Steve Belichick Resigns After UNC Football Investigation

    Steve Belichick Resigns After UNC Football Investigation

    The University of North Carolina released a statement Thursday morning addressing the concluded investigation into the Tar Heels football program. The university announced that defensive coordinator Steve Belichick will resign from his post at the conclusion of his medical leave on Oct. 27. This marks the second major departure linked to the probe, following the resignation of former general manager Michael Lombardi on Sept. 3.

    Investigation Findings and University Response

    According to the university statement, the investigation “determined that certain actions demonstrated a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct” but were “isolated in scope and not a systemic failure.”

    “Throughout the investigation, the University has been guided by the legal advice of outside counsel,” the university said in a statement. “All necessary corrective actions are now underway and will be overseen by Carolina Athletics and the Office of University Counsel. With these actions, the University considers the investigation to be resolved.”

    “Consistent with University policy regarding personnel matters, there will be no further comment on individuals,” the statement continued. “As always, should credible new information arise, the University will evaluate it and take appropriate action consistent with its policies and responsibilities.”

    Separate Player Suspension

    The statement also disclosed a separate disciplinary matter involving freshman wide receiver Keeyun Chapman. Chapman was suspended from the program in relation to an incident on Tuesday. He was arrested and charged with carrying a concealed weapon following a traffic stop Tuesday night.

    This is a developing story and will be updated.

  • UNC’s Steve Belichick to Resign After Investigation Finds ‘a disregard for Carolina’s values’

    UNC’s Steve Belichick to Resign After Investigation Finds ‘a disregard for Carolina’s values’

    CHAPEL HILL — University of North Carolina defensive coordinator Steve Belichick is resigning following an internal investigation that found actions within the football program demonstrating “a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct,” the university announced Thursday.

    Belichick, the son of head coach Bill Belichick, has been on medical leave for more than a month. His resignation takes effect October 27, when the medical leave concludes, according to the university. Specific details regarding the medical leave have not been publicly disclosed.

    Investigation Focus and Findings

    Outside investigators hired by UNC previously questioned individuals close to the program about whether Steve Belichick had used drugs on the job or provided drugs to at least one player, according to people familiar with the investigation who spoke with WRAL.

    UNC stated Thursday that its internal investigation into the “culture and climate” of the football program found actions that demonstrated “a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct.”

    “The investigation determined that certain actions demonstrated a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct,” UNC said in a statement. “The investigation also found that these actions were isolated in scope and not a systemic failure.”

    Leadership Departures

    The development follows the resignation of General Manager Michael Lombardi, a longtime confidant of Bill Belichick, two weeks earlier. Lombardi was placed on paid administrative leave before the season and resigned on September 3, minutes before WRAL published a report about the expanding internal probe.

    Player Suspension

    Additionally, freshman wide receiver Keeyun Chapman has been suspended indefinitely by the program. Chapman faces a gun charge after he was a passenger in a teammate’s car during a traffic stop Tuesday.

    “Chapman’s suspension, like the actions resulting from the investigation, reflect the university’s commitment to accountability and the well-being of its student athletes,” the university said. “We believe the steps announced today will help make Carolina Football a stronger program and one that continues to earn the pride of the entire Carolina community.”

    Contract Details and Upcoming Game

    Steve Belichick is in the final year of a two-year, $2.7 million contract. He previously served as the defensive coordinator at the University of Washington.

    North Carolina visits Clemson for its first ACC game of the season Saturday.

    Full UNC Statement

    “The University has concluded a thorough and independent investigation into allegations related to culture and climate within the Carolina football program.

    “The investigation determined that certain actions demonstrated a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct. The investigation also found that these actions were isolated in scope and not a systemic failure.

    “As the University previously announced, General Manager Michael Lombardi resigned from the program effective September 3. Steve Belichick has resigned from his position of defensive coordinator, effective October 27, 2026, following the conclusion of his current medical leave.

    “Throughout the investigation, the University has been guided by the legal advice of outside counsel. All necessary corrective actions are now underway and will be overseen by Carolina Athletics and the Office of University Counsel. With these actions, the University considers the investigation to be resolved.

    “Consistent with University policy regarding personnel matters, there will be no further comment on individuals. As always, should credible new information arise, the University will evaluate it and take appropriate action consistent with its policies and responsibilities.

    “Separately, Carolina Football has suspended Keeyun Chapman from the team indefinitely in connection with an incident Tuesday night. Chapman’s suspension, like the actions resulting from the investigation, reflect the University’s commitment to accountability and the well-being of its student athletes. We believe the steps announced today will help make Carolina Football a stronger program and one that continues to earn the pride of the entire Carolina community.”

  • Patrick McEnroe Urges Congress to Cap Foreign Recruits, Protect American Student-Athletes

    Patrick McEnroe Urges Congress to Cap Foreign Recruits, Protect American Student-Athletes

    Patrick McEnroe Urges Congress to Cap International Athletes on College Rosters at 20%

    Tennis legend Patrick McEnroe took his fight directly to Capitol Hill this week, urging Congress to cap international athletes on college rosters at 20%. Speaking with OutKick following his testimony before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, the former Davis Cup captain made his mission clear: stop taxpayer-funded universities from shutting out American kids and restore their focus on developing young domestic talent.

    “Football and basketball are essentially professional now, and universities are under increasing pressure to fund them,” McEnroe told OutKick. “The sports being squeezed are tennis, wrestling and swimming, the Olympic sports that don’t generate revenue.”

    A Reality Check for College Sports

    Appearing before the House Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development, ESPN commentator Patrick McEnroe addressed lawmakers on the shrinking presence of American student-athletes in NCAA programs. The turning point came when McEnroe turned on the SEC Network to watch a college tennis championship and noticed that only two of the 12 players on the court were American. An ACC championship match revealed an even worse ratio, with just one American out of 12. In Division I tennis, international recruits now occupy nearly 70% of roster spots.

    “This is collegiate tennis, and we’re losing a pathway of dreams and opportunities for American kids,” McEnroe said. “I think of it as the rungs on a ladder. If you keep taking away the rungs, the kids will eventually give up.”

    At his academy in New York, McEnroe sees young American athletes grinding every weekend, only to watch collegiate opportunities evaporate as coaches favor older international recruits with professional experience.

    “Many of those kids dream of playing professionally, but by 14 or 15, they realize that probably won’t happen,” McEnroe explained. “What they want is the opportunity to play college tennis, and they’re starting to see that dream disappear. I don’t think that’s right.”

    “That’s why I say I’m not worried about the players who are going to make it,” he added. “They represent roughly 1 percent of the people who play college tennis or other college sports and eventually become professionals. This is about the masses.”

    Capping International Recruits to Protect American Talent

    To fix the system, McEnroe is backing a legislative proposal introduced by Rep. Tim Walberg, R-Mich., that would cap international roster spots at 20%. McEnroe believes a firm limit is necessary to give American student-athletes a fairer opportunity.

    “I don’t believe the purpose of that funding is to give every roster spot to international athletes,” McEnroe emphasized. “I’m completely in favor of international athletes participating, but there needs to be a reasonable limit.”

    He noted that college coaches, trapped in a ‘win-now’ mentality, are often forced into the recruiting arms race, even if many privately support reform.

    “I don’t blame the colleges or coaches,” McEnroe said. “The system needs guardrails so American kids have an opportunity to play. If the percentage is limited, everyone is on a level playing field.”

    “Many coaches I know won’t publicly support this because they’re afraid of losing their jobs,” he added. “That’s why I’m doing it for them. I believe most coaches want a level playing field.”

    For McEnroe, tennis is just the tip of the iceberg in a much broader battle across college sports.

    “This is a message we should send to young athletes and families in every sport, including soccer and lacrosse,” McEnroe added. “In non-revenue Olympic sports, we need to restore some balance to collegiate athletics.”

    Stop Subsidizing Overseas Competitors

    The disparity is especially striking when viewed through the lens of the global stage. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, 1,200 NCAA athletes competed, but only 386 were American. More than 800 international athletes trained in U.S. collegiate programs before competing against American athletes at the Olympics.

    “We have the best training, coaches, facilities and competition in collegiate sports, and we provide all of that to international athletes so they can return home and compete against us in the Olympics,” McEnroe argued. “I don’t think that’s what we want taxpayer money supporting.”

    Capping foreign spots is not an attack on international players. It is a necessary fix to ensure American universities return to their core mission of developing home-grown talent.

    “I’m an international person,” McEnroe concluded. “I’ve been fortunate to travel the world through tennis and make friends everywhere. I love that part of tennis and many other sports. But that doesn’t mean international athletes should completely take over an American collegiate athletic system.”

  • Bills Open Highmark Stadium, Eyeing Notable Arena Debut

    Bills Open Highmark Stadium, Eyeing Notable Arena Debut

    The Buffalo Bills officially christen Highmark Stadium on Thursday night, hosting the Detroit Lions on Thursday Night Football in the venue’s first regular-season game. The $2.1 billion facility, which broke ground in May 2023, seats 60,108—roughly 10,000 fewer than the team’s previous home—and arrives engineered specifically for Western New York winters.

    Highmark Stadium built for Buffalo weather

    The stadium includes a natural grass field with underground heating coils to prevent freezing, what the team calls the world’s largest stadium snow-melt system that automatically monitors and melts accumulations using roof sensors, and a 360-degree canopy covering 60% of the seating bowl to reduce wind impact.

    A look back at notable NFL stadium openers

    As Buffalo opens its new home, here is a retrospective of opening games at currently active NFL stadiums.

    Allegiant Stadium — Las Vegas Raiders (2020)

    Less than a year after their final game in Oakland, the Raiders debuted at the $2 billion, 65,000-seat Allegiant Stadium on Monday Night Football. The coronavirus pandemic meant zero fans in attendance. Las Vegas fell behind the New Orleans Saints 10–0 in the first quarter before outscoring them 34–14 the rest of the way. Quarterback Derek Carr threw for 284 yards and three touchdowns; tight end Darren Waller caught 12 passes for 105 yards and a score.

    SoFi Stadium — Los Angeles Rams & Chargers (2020)

    Built at a cost exceeding $5 billion, SoFi Stadium is the world’s most expensive sports venue. The 3.1-million-square-foot, 70,000-seat stadium (expandable to 100,000) hosted separate debuts for its two tenants with contrasting results.

    The Rams opened on Sunday Night Football against the Dallas Cowboys, winning a back-and-forth game 20–17. A week later, the Chargers lost in overtime to the Kansas City Chiefs. That game marked quarterback Justin Herbert’s NFL debut; he threw for 311 yards with a passing touchdown and a rushing touchdown, joining Cam Newton and Otto Graham as the only quarterbacks to reach 300 passing yards and a rushing score in their first game.

    Levi’s Stadium — San Francisco 49ers (2014)

    After over 40 years at Candlestick Park, the 49ers moved into the $1.3 billion, 68,500-seat Levi’s Stadium. The Chicago Bears spoiled the opener, scoring 21 unanswered fourth-quarter points to win 28–20. Colin Kaepernick threw consecutive fourth-quarter interceptions that led to Chicago touchdowns, and San Francisco’s final possession ended on a turnover on downs with 6:55 remaining.

    MetLife Stadium — New York Giants & Jets (2010)

    The former Giants Stadium tenants moved in together. The Giants opened against the Carolina Panthers—who had beaten them in the final game at the old venue—in front of just under 80,000 fans. New York reversed the result, winning 31–18 behind three touchdown passes from Eli Manning.

    The next night, the Jets faced the Baltimore Ravens on Monday Night Football. Fresh off a conference championship appearance, New York lost a low-scoring 10–9 affair.

    AT&T Stadium — Dallas Cowboys (2009)

    Dubbed “Jerry’s World,” the $1.2 billion palace opened as a spectacle with over 100,000 attendees. Celebrities included former President George W. Bush, who performed the coin toss, and LeBron James, who threw a football on the field. The massive jumbotron and fireworks debuted on Sunday Night Football.

    The New York Giants were unfazed. After Dallas took a 31–30 lead with over three minutes left, New York drove for a game-winning 37-yard field goal as time expired. Eli Manning signed the visiting locker room wall afterward, writing the date, final score, and “first win in the new stadium.”

    NRG Stadium — Houston Texans (2002)

    The NFL’s most recent expansion team opened its stadium on Sunday Night Football against the Cowboys before just under 70,000 fans. No. 1 overall pick David Carr scored 75 seconds into the game, igniting the crowd. Houston never trailed en route to a 19–10 victory, becoming the first expansion team to win its debut since 1961.

  • Lane Kiffin’s daughter disgusted by ‘vulgar’ bed sheet banners accusing her of having sex with a player

    Lane Kiffin’s daughter disgusted by ‘vulgar’ bed sheet banners accusing her of having sex with a player

    The rivalry between LSU and Ole Miss has escalated into a hostile environment ahead of Saturday night’s matchup in Oxford, with safety concerns, personal attacks, and legal drama dominating headlines.

    Governor Calls for Military Backup as Tensions Rise

    Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has reportedly called for military backup ahead of the game, underscoring the intensity surrounding Lane Kiffin’s return to Oxford as LSU’s head coach. Kiffin himself acknowledged there are legitimate “safety issues” awaiting him on the sideline, though he insists his players have nothing to worry about and has shifted the game pressure onto the Rebels.

    Landry Kiffin Targeted by Vulgar Banners

    Kiffin’s oldest daughter, Landry Kiffin, a 21-year-old student at Ole Miss, has become the target of vicious personal attacks. Vulgar bed sheet banners have appeared around campus this week, alleging she had sexual relations with a former Ole Miss player during her father’s tenure. The rumors, which have circulated on Reddit and social media, suggest this alleged relationship led to the player being benched last season. Landry has been dating current LSU linebacker Whit Weeks since last season.

    On Wednesday night, Landry Kiffin took to TikTok to condemn the harassment:

    “I understand emotions are high this week, and people are upset, but I’m my own person,” Kiffin said. “I’ll never understand how someone can feel good about themselves putting such vulgar things about a girl on a giant banner hanging from their house.”

    She continued, stating students are “saying really inappropriate things about me with somebody I genuinely have never met in my life, which makes it even more frustrating,” and that she hopes “people realize there is an actual person behind the jokes people make.”

    Escalating Security and Legal Maneuvers

    Oxford is bracing for the showdown with mounted police and extra patrols. The situation intensified further when LSU star defensive end Princewill Umanmielen was served court papers by Ole Miss outside the football facility earlier this week. Meanwhile, LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt was listed as “doubtful” on the latest injury report, adding another layer of uncertainty for the Tigers.

    With police presence high, banners widespread, and legal documents being served at practice facilities, the stage is set for a volatile atmosphere at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium this weekend.

  • September 2026 MLB Awards Watch: MVP, Cy Young and More

    September 2026 MLB Awards Watch: MVP, Cy Young and More

    2026 MLB Awards Watch: Cy Young, MVP, Rookie and Manager Races Enter Final Stretch

    With the 2026 regular season winding down, the major award races are crystallizing across both leagues. Advanced metrics highlight historic performances, while traditional counting stats and team success continue to shape voter narratives. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the leading candidates for the Cy Young, MVP, Rookie of the Year and Manager of the Year awards.

    National League Cy Young: A Historic Class of Aces

    This season stands out as a banner year for elite starting pitching in the National League. Preseason favorite Paul Skenes has endured a down year, yet the depth of excellence is unprecedented. By Bradford Doolittle’s AXE rating system—where a score of 130 represents performance three standard deviations above league average—nearly the entire NL Cy Young top 10 clears that threshold. That group excludes Tarik Skubal, whose 136 overall AXE is split between leagues following his deadline trade from Detroit to Los Angeles.

    Despite the crowded field, betting markets have increasingly tilted toward Milwaukee Brewers ace Jacob Misiorowski. His 150.9 pitching AXE is more than awards-worthy, though for much of the season he trailed Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Cristopher Sanchez in the metric. AXE serves as an index to narrow the candidate pool; deeper analysis separates the front-runners: Misiorowski, Sanchez, Chris Sale, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Jesus Luzardo.

    The “Wow” Factor and Game-Score Dominance

    “Good luck voters! With advanced numbers all over the place, it might simply come down to this: Misiorowski has the ‘wow!’ factor in a big way, leads the NL with a sub-2.00 ERA and is the ace of the NL’s best regular-season team. Though AXE can justifiably disagree, the case for Misiorowski is very easy to make.”

    Doolittle introduces a consistency metric based on Bill James’ Game Score. A starter earns a “W” if his game score exceeds the opponent’s, an “L” if not. The record is then converted to a Fibonacci Win Score. By this measure, Misiorowski posts a sparkling 24-4 mark, yielding an MLB-best 40.57 Fibonacci Win Score. “I love that 24-4 record, which harkens back to the actual win-loss records posted in the 1980s by Dwight Gooden in 1985 and Roger Clemens a year later. Misiorowski’s 2026 season is the 2020s equivalent to those memorable seasons by similarly splashy phenoms from a different era.”

    Comparable figures for the other contenders: Sanchez (18-13, 15.45), Sale (17-9, 19.12), Yamamoto (17-10, 17.7) and Luzardo (21-8, 28.2).

    Leader Trend: Sanchez’s AXE Edge vs. Misiorowski’s Narrative

    Doolittle notes he favors Misiorowski despite AXE favoring Sanchez. “So much of Sanchez’s edge in AXE is fueled by a strangely big lead in bWAR that I don’t think is a real thing. Of course, it’s not the only bottom-line metric in which Sanchez leads, so maybe we’re all ignoring reality. Either way, Sanchez’s stinker against the struggling Nationals this week in the midst of the Phillies’ playoff push did no favors for his Cy Young case.”

    Biggest Mover: Luzardo’s Injury Derails Momentum

    Jesus Luzardo gained 6.9 AXE points since the last update, second only to Tampa Bay’s Freddy Peralta among starters. However, a shoulder injury has ended his regular season and cast doubt on his postseason availability, nullifying any late charge.

    Watch List: Mason Miller’s Reliever Case

    San Diego Padres closer Mason Miller (133.0 AXE) won’t win the Cy Young, but his elite win probability added and championship probability added figures among NL pitchers make his final ranking noteworthy for a reliever.

    American League Cy Young: Schlittler’s September Surge

    New York Yankees rookie Cam Schlittler (153.1 AXE) has combined dominance with consistency. He entered September 12-6 with a 2.09 ERA, then posted a 0.89 ERA over his first three starts this month. Dylan Cease (145.8 AXE) remains outstanding but picked the wrong season to peak. Cease holds a slight edge in Game Score record (22-6, 33.3 Fibonacci points vs. Schlittler’s 22-9, 28.6), though Doolittle expects it won’t matter.

    Reid Detmers (132.6 AXE) emerges as a notable second-half riser for the Angels: 3-2, 1.65 ERA and a near 7.0 K/BB ratio over 11 starts since the All-Star break.

    National League MVP: Pete Crow-Armstrong Runs Away With It

    Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong (165.3 AXE) has effectively clinched the award and is now chasing history. “MLB.com’s Mike Petriello pointed out that Crow-Armstrong has an unheard of chance to lead baseball in both offensive and defensive runs above average, per FanGraphs. He’s three steals away from a 40-homer/40-steal season. And with 10.4 fWAR on the board, he has an outside shot of topping Rogers Hornsby’s 11.0 figure in 1929 for the Cubs’ team record. Not a bad body of work.”

    The chase pack includes Shohei Ohtani (145.9), Cristopher Sanchez (143.7), Jacob Misiorowski (141.7) and Brice Turang (139.7). Pitchers appear on the MVP board because AXE values for the award compare them against the entire MLB talent pool, not just pitchers.

    Biggest Mover: Elly De La Cruz’s Highlight-Reel Excellence

    De La Cruz (135.3 AXE) won’t garner serious MVP support but continues to elevate his profile. Doolittle highlights a relay throw against the Dodgers: “De La Cruz drifted well into the grass to take the throw from JJ Bleday, spun, and fired a 102 mph missile to catcher Jose Trevino to cut Hernandez down by several steps. The best part was as soon as De La Cruz released the throw, he started running off the field, similar to Larry Bird walking off the court at the end of the 1988 3-point contest before his last shot had even gone through the basket. By the time Trevino had slapped the tag on Hernandez, De La Cruz was about eight steps toward the Reds’ dugout. Awesome.”

    Watch List: Gabriel Moreno’s Playoff Stage

    Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno (131.1 AXE) could earn down-ballot votes as Arizona fights for a playoff spot.

    American League MVP: Yordan Alvarez Holds Off the Field

    Houston Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez (146.9 AXE) leads despite a second-half slowdown. “In many ways, first-half Yordan undermined second-half Yordan by being so locked in. Since the All-Star break, he has seen 4.1% fewer pitches in the zone overall and 5.8% fewer with men on base. Still, the Astros are in position to eke out an AL West crown and Alvarez has a whopping lead in both win probability added and championship probability added among MLB hitters. Houston would be well out of the race without Alvarez even if his slower second half means no Triple Crown.”

    Cam Schlittler (143.0) and Bobby Witt Jr. (139.7) round out the top three. Junior Caminero (131.7) has surged in betting markets after delivering clutch home runs, including one that clinched a playoff berth for Tampa Bay.

    NL Rookie of the Year: JJ Wetherholt’s Lead Erodes

    St. Louis Cardinals infielder JJ Wetherholt (127.5 AXE) retains the AXE lead, but a second-half slump and a late-August IL stint have eroded his edge. Betting markets now favor Cincinnati’s Sal Stewart. Milwaukee’s Logan Henderson (116.0 AXE) has emerged as a legitimate No. 2 starter behind Misiorowski, going 7-2 with a 1.95 ERA over 10 second-half starts. Atlanta’s Didier Fuentes (115.8 AXE), just 21, has been a high-leverage bullpen weapon (7-2, 2.34 ERA, three saves) and will feature in the Braves’ playoff run.

    AL Rookie of the Year: Kevin McGonigle’s Historic Campaign

    Detroit Tigers infielder Kevin McGonigle (135.8 AXE) leads all AL hitters in bWAR (6.7) and ranks third in fWAR—not just among rookies, but all hitters. “According to Baseball Reference, as long as McGonigle’s 6.7 bWAR holds steady or goes up even more, he’ll set the Tigers’ rookie record for hitters set by Donie Bush (6.5). Bush isn’t around to congratulate McGonigle, though. He set the record 117 years ago.”

    Boston’s Payton Tolle (120.4 AXE) has been a force since August (3-0, 2.44 ERA, 2.37 FIP over eight starts), while Kansas City catcher Carter Jensen (116.0 AXE) is authoring perhaps the best rookie catching season in Royals history.

    Manager of the Year: Cash vs. Venable in AL; Murphy’s Three-Peat Bid in NL

    American League: Kevin Cash Seeking Third Straight

    Tampa Bay’s Kevin Cash (113.5 EARL) has nudged ahead of Chicago’s Will Venable (113.0) after the White Sox’s recent slide. Cash has won two previous AL Manager of the Year awards in his 12-year tenure. The Rays have outperformed preseason forecasts and likely enter the playoffs as the AL’s top seed. If Chicago misses the postseason, Venable could fall to runner-up despite exceeding expectations.

    National League: Pat Murphy’s Clear Case

    Milwaukee’s Pat Murphy (109.7 EARL) is the frontrunner for a third consecutive award. “Murphy should win his third straight award and if he doesn’t, you figure it will be in part because of voter fatigue. But the Brewers are not only the NL’s best team by record, and have again raced past middling preseason forecasts, they’ve done it by turning over several key roster spots from last season. Milwaukee has worked two rookie position players into regular roles — Cooper Pratt and Luis Lara — which is kind of amazing when you consider how well a rookie has to play to help a 100-win team. Breaking in rookies is and always has been a key part of a manager’s job.”

    Philadelphia’s Don Mattingly (102.4 EARL) could draw support for the Phillies’ turnaround, but Murphy’s resume appears decisive.

    What Is AXE?

    AXE is a consensus rating system that combines leading public value metrics—bWAR, fWAR, Win Probability Added and Championship Probability Added—using standard scores weighted to align with current standings. The index sets 100 as average; 110 is one standard deviation above, 120 is two, and 90 is one below. The managerial version (EARL) incorporates factors influencing postseason balloting such as exceeding preseason expectations, outperforming run differential and close-game performance. It is not a measure of managerial ability.

    Note: Awards Watch typically excludes pitchers from MVP leaderboards (except Shohei Ohtani). In 2026, pitchers have entered the conversation and are included. AXE values for pitchers differ between MVP and Cy Young tables because MVP values compare against all MLB talent, while Cy Young values compare only against other pitchers.

  • ICE Detains Nicaraguan Opposition Figure Denis Palacios Hernández in Virginia, One of Those Expelled by Regime

    ICE Detains Nicaraguan Opposition Figure Denis Palacios Hernández in Virginia, One of Those Expelled by Regime

    ICE Detains Nicaraguan Political Prisoner Denis Javier Palacios Hernández in Virginia

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Nicaraguan opposition figure Denis Javier Palacios Hernández on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, in Virginia. Palacios Hernández, 38, is one of the 222 political prisoners expelled from Nicaragua in February 2023 and stripped of their nationality by the regime of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo.

    Arrest Details and Legal Status

    The arrest occurred while Palacios Hernández was on his way to work at a chicken distribution company, according to the Grupo de Reflexión de Excarcelados Políticos (Grex), a collective of opponents who were detained during the Nicaraguan political crisis. Grex emphasized that Palacios holds a valid work permit and has an asylum application currently pending in the United States.

    Grex stated: “El señor Palacios es un buen ciudadano. No ha cometido delito y debería ser liberado a lo inmediato, dejando que pueda continuar su proceso de asilo en paz.”

    The organization further noted that Palacios is single, has no children, and has no criminal record. They demanded his immediate release so he can continue his asylum process without remaining in immigration custody.

    Background: The 2023 Mass Expulsion

    Palacios Hernández was originally detained on July 23, 2019, and remained imprisoned until February 9, 2023, when the Nicaraguan government released 222 political prisoners and flew them to the United States. The group included opposition leaders, presidential candidates, journalists, activists, human rights defenders, businesspeople, and former diplomats.

    Following the expulsion, Nicaraguan authorities declared them “traitors to the homeland,” stripped them of their Nicaraguan nationality, and revoked their political rights. Palacios entered U.S. territory with the backing of the State Department as part of the operation that facilitated the reception of the released prisoners. His arrest this week raises questions about his immigration status despite his ongoing international protection application.

    Second Nicaraguan Journalist Arrested Days Earlier

    The detention of Palacios came two days after the arrest of Luis Galeano, a 48-year-old Nicaraguan journalist and director of the analysis and debate program “Café con Voz,” which is critical of the Managua government. Galeano was detained on Monday in Orlando, Florida, while working as an Uber driver, according to his wife, Deykell Santamaría.

    Galeano was also denationalized by Nicaraguan authorities. Santamaría reported that the journalist will be transferred to a migrant detention center and has a hearing scheduled for October 2. No official details have been released regarding the immigration arguments behind his arrest.

    Nicaragua’s Ongoing Political Crisis

    Both cases involve Nicaraguans who were expelled from their country and received in the United States following their release from prison. Nicaragua has faced a deepening political and social crisis since April 2018, when protests against the Ortega government triggered a repressive response from authorities.

    Since then, dozens of opposition leaders, journalists, priests, activists, and human rights defenders have either fled the country or been imprisoned. The situation intensified ahead of the November 2021 general elections, in which Ortega, 80, secured a fifth term—his fourth consecutive one—while several of his main rivals were detained.

    Subsequently, a portion of those detainees was expelled from the country, while others remained in prison or faced judicial proceedings. The regime has maintained that the opposition participated in actions to destabilize the state, an accusation that Ortega’s critics reject.

  • Tokyo Game Show 2026: Bill Skarsgård Cast as Lead in PHYSINT

    Tokyo Game Show 2026: Bill Skarsgård Cast as Lead in PHYSINT

    Just as the Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2026 broadcast appeared to be wrapping up, legendary game creator Hideo Kojima delivered a final surprise: fresh updates on OD – KNOCK and PHYSINT, including the reveal that Swedish actor and producer Bill Skarsgård will portray the lead role in PHYSINT, the upcoming action-espionage title from Kojima Productions.

    Kojima also shared a new poster for PHYSINT featuring a photograph he personally shot of Skarsgård alongside co-star Charlee Fraser, offering a first look at the talent driving this ambitious project.

    Hideo Kojima Confirms Bill Skarsgård as PHYSINT Lead

    “I’m delighted to confirm the lead role for PHYSINT will be Bill Skarsgård,” said Kojima Productions founder Hideo Kojima in a press release. “We are both long-time fans of each other’s work, and we’ve decided to embark on this new adventure together. The costume fittings, scans, and camera tests we conducted with Bill and Charlee earlier this year gave me tremendous confidence in the direction of the project.”

    Skarsgård’s Rising Profile in Film and Television

    Most recently, Skarsgård earned rave reviews for his performance in Gus Van Sant’s Dead Man’s Wire (2026). He is set to star next in Peter Berg’s The Mosquito Bowl and Andrew Niccol’s Lords of War opposite Nicolas Cage. Earlier this year, he co-starred in The Death of Robin Hood (Michael Sarnoski, 2026) alongside Hugh Jackman and Jodie Comer.

    Skarsgård gained international recognition for his portrayal of Pennywise in It (Andy Muschietti, 2017) and its sequel It: Chapter Two (2019). His filmography includes Nosferatu (Robert Eggers, 2024), Barbarian (Zach Cregger, 2022), The Crow (Rupert Sanders, 2024), Atomic Blonde (David Leitch, 2017), John Wick: Chapter 4 (Chad Stahelski, 2023), The Devil All the Time (Antonio Campos, 2020), and Boy Kills World (Moritz Mohr, 2023).

    On television, he recently starred in It: Welcome to Derry (2025), the HBO Max prequel series where he reprised Pennywise and served as executive producer. Additional credits include Clark (Jonas Åkerlund, 2022), Castle Rock (2018–2019), and Hemlock Grove (2013–2015).

    Ensemble Cast Takes Shape for PHYSINT

    Skarsgård joins an ensemble that already includes Charlee Fraser, Don Lee, and Minami Hamabe. Kojima has promised further casting announcements as development continues.

    OD – KNOCK Development Update

    For OD – KNOCK, Kojima shared a progress update with behind-the-scenes footage of stars Sophia Lillis and Hunter Schafer in a performance capture session.

    Xbox and Kojima Productions Expand Partnership

    Last week, Xbox and Kojima Productions announced that Xbox will publish PHYSINT, deepening a relationship that already includes OD. The collaboration extends beyond games, with the companies working together across film and television to bring new stories to broader audiences.

    Watch the full announcements from the Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2026 broadcast and stay tuned for more updates as development progresses.