Tag: Sports Radio Service

Minnesota Snaps Golden State’s 4-Game Winning Streak, defeating Valkyries, 81-75

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Minnesota Lynx guard #10 Courtney Williams driving it into the paint on Golden State Valkyrie guard #6 Kaila Charles on June 19th, 2026 at Chase Center in San Francisco, CA. (Photo Credits to Kelley L. Cox – Imagn Images)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – Happy Juneteenth from Ballhalla! on Friday, we celebrate resilience, freedom, and never giving up hope in uncertain times. The Golden State Valkyries had the honor of playing and hosting the Minnesota Lynx, who are currently in first place in the West.

The Valkyries have won their last four games in a row, three of them being at home, and are in third place in the West. So Golden State wanted their fifth straight Dub, but Minnesota had other plans coming to the Bay. As the Lynx would get the win, 81-75, snapping Golden State’s four game winning streak. Minnesota also holds an early 2-0 season series lead over Golden State.

Coming off their most recent win against Dallas on Wednesday, the Golden State Valkyries sent out the same starters as in their last game, with guards Veronica Burton and forwards Kayla Thornton, Gabby Williams, Cecilia Zandalasini, and center Kiah Stokes. Williams led the team in the win with her 25 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Minnesota’s first five in Ballhalla were guards Olivia Miles, Courtney Williams, forwards Kayla McBride, Nia Coffey, and center Natasha Howard. In the Lynx’s last game, they were on the road in Los Angeles, but still able to get the win, 99-83. Minnesota was led by Olivia Miles, 31 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists. Miles efforts and performance were able to give the Lynx a two game winning streak.

Golden State’s Cecilia Zandalasini got the game going with her 11-foot driving floating shot. Zandalasini would score the first 5-points for Valkyries as she would also make a 26-foot three-point step back jumpshot. She would finish the quarter with eight points alone by herself. With that, Golden State held an early six point lead over Minnesota, 22-16.

Heading into the 2nd quarter, the Lynx’s shooting and offense would improve. They would drop 25 points in the 2nd quarter, compared to their 16 points in the 1st quarter. However, halfway through the 2nd quarter, Golden State’s lead jumped to 9 points, 32-23. Then, right at a timeout, Lynx’s forward Nia Coffey would hit 3 three-pointers in a row to cut the lead to 3-points, 35-32.

In the last minute of the second quarter, Golden State had a 12-point lead over Minnesota, but the Valkyries would commit two shooting fouls on the Lynx, who were shooting three-pointers. So the Lynx would shoot six free throws in the span of five seconds. So at halftime, Golden State’s lead was now just five points over Minnesota, 46-41.

Coming back from halftime, Minnesota was feeling confident that it could pull a comeback in this game. Especially ending the first half with those six free throws, making five of them. So Lynx’s Kayla McBride would get the second half started with a 24-foot three-pointer.

However, Valkyrie Kayla Thornton would respond with a three-pointer of her own. Then the Lynx went on a 6-0 scoring run, and in that run would take the lead, 50-49, with seven minutes remaining in the third. The rest of the quarter, both teams would evenly exchange buckets, but it would be Minnesota holding on to a one point lead at the end of the third, 63-62.

Heading into the final quarter, the Valkyries’ offense would start to hurt them. Golden State dropped just 13 points in the fourth, while Minnesota would drop 18 points. In the final 20 seconds, the Valkyries were down just two points, thanks to Cecilia Zandalasini making a 24-foot three-pointer, 77-75. Although Minnesota would inbound the ball, leaving Golden State to foul immediately. The Valkyries would get one last chance, being down four points, 79-75.

Valkyries would give the ball to Cecilia Zandalasini to make another clutch shot, but Minnesota’s defense would come through on the road. Lynx’s Olivia Miles would block Zandalasini three point shot, and ultimately giving Minnesota their third straight win, with their last two games being on the road. Although the Valkyries fell in this matchup, they were led by Cecilia Zandalasini’s 23 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists.

After being at home for their last three games, the Golden State Valkyries will take a quick road trip to Las Vegas. The Valkyries will face off against the Las Vegas Aces on Sunday, June 21st, in the Michelob ULTRA Arena. The game will be broadcast live on CBS at 1:00 p.m. In the Aces’ most recent game, they got the win against the Phoenix Mercury. The Aces were led by A’ja Wilson’s 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists.

Giants Relief Pitching Fails to Hold Lead Dropping to the Marlins 4-3

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Miami Marlins Owen Cassie runs the bases after hitting a solo home run in the bottom of the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at LoanDepot in Miami on Fri Jun 19, 2026 (AP News photo)

By Barbara Mason

The San Francisco Giants (31-44) briefly held the lead but unfortunately the relief pitching could not hold that lead falling to the Miami Marlins (38-38) 4-3 in game one of their series. Miami went through eight pitchers pulling off the win.

Game recap: Marlins pitcher Lake Bachar walked two runners in the top of the first inning but San Francisco left them stranded. It was a decent start for Bachar as the game went into the bottom of the inning. It was, however, a rough start for Landen Roupp giving up an Owen Caissie solo home run for an early Miami 1-0 lead.

Willy Adames got the first hit of the game for the Giants in the top of the second inning. It was quite a milestone, his 1000th career hit. Casey Schmitt followed Adames hitting a single and San Francisco had two runners on base with no outs.

Drew Gilbert bunted and with no outs the Giants had the bases loaded. Daniel Susac very nearly had himself a grand slam but it was snatched out of the air by the defense. He missed the long ball but Adames scored on the hit to tie up this game 1-1.

That near miss was enough for the Marlins to make a pitching change. Leftie John King relieved Bachar who had allowed three hits, one earned run and two walks. He had one strikeout. King got the Marlins out of the inning.

Jakob Marsee singled in the bottom of the second inning and the Giants would have to keep a close eye on this guy. Marsee has stolen 17 bases this season. He lived up to his reputation stealing his 18th base moving to second. Roupp gave up a hit and a steal with two strikeouts in the inning but allowed no runs.

With two outs San Francisco had runners at the corners in the top of the third inning. Again Miami had a pitching change, Anthony Bender relieving King. Rafael Devers and Jung Hoo Lee both singled in the inning but were left stranded.

The game would go into the bottom of the fifth inning still tied at one apiece. The Marlins would break the tie taking a 2-1 lead when Caissie doubled Sanoja home for a brief 2-1 lead. The San Francisco offense had a lucrative sixth inning that started off with a Devers solo home run tying up this game once again 2-2.

Lee followed that home run up with a double. Schmitt singled Lee home and the Giants had taken their first lead of the game 3-2. Roupp had a solid bottom of the sixth and it was on to the seventh inning.

The Marlins went three and out in the top of the seventh inning. Hentges relieved Roupp in the bottom of the seventh. Roupp finished six innings allowing seven hits, two runs, one walk and seven strikeouts. A great outing for Roupp.

The Marlins rallied in the bottom of the seventh inning putting two runners on base with no outs. Miami tied up the game 3-3 when Liam Hicks singled Esteury Ruiz home and with one out the Marlins were threatening to take the lead.

Owen Caissie had really made a difference in this game and the go-ahead run scored when he sacrificed and Javier Sanoja scored. The Giants intentionally walked Kyle Stowers and with two outs San Francisco wanted out of the inning without further damage. Walker relieved Hentges to close out the inning.

The game went into the top of the eighth, the Giants looking for some base traffic but went three and out with Lee and Adames grounding out and Schmitt lining out. San Francisco was three outs away from losing the first game of the series.

The Marlins threatened in the bottom of the eighth putting two runners on base with two outs. Erik Miller took the mound in the inning with 2 on and 2 out and closed out the inning.

Pete Fairbanks would take the mound for Miami looking to close out this game. He held off the Giants winning 4-3. The relief pitching for the Giants just could not hold the lead.

Game notes: After a fractured series earlier this week the Giants traveled to Miami for a three-game series with the Marlins. Tuesday the match-up between the Giants and the Braves was suspended due to inclement weather and a double-header was scheduled for Wednesday morning.

San Francisco swept the doubleheader taking a 2-0 series lead. They were denied the opportunity to play game three of the series on Thursday looking for a three game sweep, again due to a tropical storm. That game was re-scheduled for August 31st.

Friday’s weather cooperated although there was a heat advisory with temperatures in the low 90’s. The forecasted rain today had moved out but there is threat of lightning and thunder for Saturday and Sunday games which are expected to go off without a hitch.

San Francisco came into the game rested after having Thursday off but lost in a close one run game to the Marlins. The Giants have been exceptional at the plate recently.

Saturday the two teams will meet in game two of this series. The Giants will looking to tie up the series. Trevor McDonals will take the mound for San Francisco with a 2-4 win/loss record and a 4.64 ERA. The Marlins will start Max Meyer who is having a great season. He has a 7-0 win/loss record and a 2.75 ERA. First pitch for the game is scheduled for 1:10 PM PDT.

In the vibrant center of downtown San Francisco, Hotel Nikko offers a serene retreat defined by calm, understated luxury and the thoughtful precision of Japanese-inspired service. Each detail is designed to create a restorative experience where modern comfort and wellness come together effortlessly.

Guests are welcomed into spacious, contemporary rooms that blend clean design with subtle Japanese influences and intuitive, tech-enabled amenities. Throughout the hotel, a sense of tranquility is balanced with engaging, on-site experiences that elevate every stay.

At the top of the hotel, a glass-enclosed indoor pool offers a peaceful escape above the city an inviting space to unwind or, during the summer months, transform into a lively “dive-in” movie experience. Every Friday and Saturday night, families can enjoy classic kids’ films poolside, creating memorable moments in a truly unique setting.

Dining at Hotel Nikko is equally distinctive. ANZU Restaurant is home to San Francisco’s only Japanese breakfast buffet, offering an authentic and refined start to the day. In the evening,

Kanpai Sushi Lounge delivers an experiential dining atmosphere where craftsmanship and flavor meet in a sophisticated setting.

For entertainment, Feinstein’s at the Nikko brings world-class live music and cabaret performances directly to the hotel, offering an intimate and vibrant nightlife experience without ever leaving the property.

Located at 222 Mason Street near Union Square, Hotel Nikko places guests steps away from the city’s premier shopping, dining, and cultural attractions while offering a peaceful sanctuary to return to.

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: Giants Pride Cap Controversy goes Coast to Coast

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San Francisco Giants reliever JT Brubaker pitches to the Chicago Cubs line up on Pride Night at Oracle Park. San Francisco on Fri Jun 12, 2026. Brubaker wrote the bible verse Gen 9:12-16 on his Pride cap. (AP News photo)

Giants Pride Cap Controversy goes Coast to Coast

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

By Amaury Pi-González

In the world of Social Media and Artificial Intelligence, everything, both inside and outside of sports, sometimes becomes a source of controversy, even when it has nothing to do with sports. San Francisco Giants pitcher Sam Hentges refused to wear the Giants rainbow Pride Night cap during the team’s Pride event. Three other pitchers,Landed Roupp, JT Brubaker, and Ryan Walker altered their specialty rainbow Pride hats by writing Bible verses (Genesis 9:12-16) on them.

All the Giants needed after having a terrible season on the field, looking like the mediocre 81 wins they had last season, might be unattainable this 2026 season. The team is lining up player sales, some with big, lucrative contracts, and deals with other teams that still have hope of postseason play. So, all of a sudden, this Pride Cap controversy is not an ESPN story; the rest of the non-sports media are joining in with all kinds of editorials on both sides of the issue, from the NY Times, to The Wall Street Journal, to USA Today, to La Opinión, and more.

The US Department of Justice is opening an investigation into Major League Baseball regarding the San Francisco Giants Pride Caps controversy. MLB Commissioner and the league state that warnings issued to three SF Giants pitchers were routine uniform violations. And clarifying the warning: had absolutely nothing to do with the content of the message,” and that identical wording is given for family tributes.

This ordeal reverberated across the country, with the Texas Rangers replacing their Pride Night for Faith and Family Day. Oak Revolution, a minor league baseball team in Pennsylvania, forfeited a game scheduled for its annual Pride Night on Thursday because players did not want to be associated with the “promotion”. And so it goes. Virtue signaling is popular in the US these days on all topics, political, non-political, sports, and in the category of “you name it”

Such is the world we live in today, where a baseball cap goes viral and nationwide. To me, it actually makes me sick that we are even talking about this. Baseball is a beautiful game, in my opinion, the greatest. Why do we have to make everything a conflict in this country today? Why? We are all entitled to our own opinions. I respect your opinion and hope you respect mine as well: this story has no place in baseball. But these are the promotions in baseball at this time in our history. I am old-fashioned; I like Bat Day, Little League Day, fireworks, and the other boring-but-fun stuff that UNITES everybody. Can we do more of that?

Baseball Promotions 1979: The Chicago White Sox hosted “Disco Demolition Night,” during which fans brought records to be blown up on the field, resulting in another game forfeiture.

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

In the vibrant center of downtown San Francisco, Hotel Nikko offers a serene retreat defined by calm, understated luxury and the thoughtful precision of Japanese-inspired service. Each detail is designed to create a restorative experience where modern comfort and wellness come together effortlessly.

Guests are welcomed into spacious, contemporary rooms that blend clean design with subtle Japanese influences and intuitive, tech-enabled amenities. Throughout the hotel, a sense of tranquility is balanced with engaging, on-site experiences that elevate every stay.

At the top of the hotel, a glass-enclosed indoor pool offers a peaceful escape above the city an inviting space to unwind or, during the summer months, transform into a lively “dive-in” movie experience. Every Friday and Saturday night, families can enjoy classic kids’ films poolside, creating memorable moments in a truly unique setting.

Dining at Hotel Nikko is equally distinctive. ANZU Restaurant is home to San Francisco’s only Japanese breakfast buffet, offering an authentic and refined start to the day. In the evening,

Kanpai Sushi Lounge delivers an experiential dining atmosphere where craftsmanship and flavor meet in a sophisticated setting.

For entertainment, Feinstein’s at the Nikko brings world-class live music and cabaret performances directly to the hotel, offering an intimate and vibrant nightlife experience without ever leaving the property.

Located at 222 Mason Street near Union Square, Hotel Nikko places guests steps away from the city’s premier shopping, dining, and cultural attractions while offering a peaceful sanctuary to return to.

San Francisco Giants podcast Bruce Macgowan: Pride Night has become a national story; Will the Pride/Gen 9:12 caps be a clubhouse distraction/ DOJ starting investigation

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San Francisco Giants pitcher Landen Roupp wears the Gen 9:12 /Pride Night cap while pitching against the Chicago Cubs on Fri Jun 12, 2026 (AP News photo)

San Francisco Giants podcast with Bruce Macgowan:

#1 Last Friday when San Francisco Giants pitcher Landen Roupp, Ryan Walker, and JT Brubaker wrote Genesis 9:12 on their Pride Night caps and it became a controversy for Pride night it’s been the lead story since then and has had reporters asking the Giants players about it. Will this become a distraction in the clubhouse?

#2 Roupp said that there is no hate at all regarding and he said the verse was geared towards God’s covenants and he wanted to express his position on Pride Night.

#3 The Genesis verse was a promise from God to Noah that it wouldn’t rain again and that’s the purpose of the rainbow and Roupp didn’t come out and say it didn’t belong to the LGBTQ community. How did the fans at large read into it?

#4 The Republican party are supportive of Roupp, Walker, and Brubaker’s stand but the LGBTQ community says that this is hate against the Community and the controversy has taken a life of it’s own. With baseball stepping in ordering the players not write on their caps and wear the pride caps as this is part of their job.

#5 How much do you see this being a PR disaster for the Giants and from the sound of it the players might continue to protest future Pride Nights?

Bruce Macgowan is a San Francisco Giants podcast contributor at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

In the vibrant center of downtown San Francisco, Hotel Nikko offers a serene retreat defined by calm, understated luxury and the thoughtful precision of Japanese-inspired service. Each detail is designed to create a restorative experience where modern comfort and wellness come together effortlessly.

Guests are welcomed into spacious, contemporary rooms that blend clean design with subtle Japanese influences and intuitive, tech-enabled amenities. Throughout the hotel, a sense of tranquility is balanced with engaging, on-site experiences that elevate every stay.

At the top of the hotel, a glass-enclosed indoor pool offers a peaceful escape above the city an inviting space to unwind or, during the summer months, transform into a lively “dive-in” movie experience. Every Friday and Saturday night, families can enjoy classic kids’ films poolside, creating memorable moments in a truly unique setting.

Dining at Hotel Nikko is equally distinctive. ANZU Restaurant is home to San Francisco’s only Japanese breakfast buffet, offering an authentic and refined start to the day. In the evening,

Kanpai Sushi Lounge delivers an experiential dining atmosphere where craftsmanship and flavor meet in a sophisticated setting.

For entertainment, Feinstein’s at the Nikko brings world-class live music and cabaret performances directly to the hotel, offering an intimate and vibrant nightlife experience without ever leaving the property.

Located at 222 Mason Street near Union Square, Hotel Nikko places guests steps away from the city’s premier shopping, dining, and cultural attractions while offering a peaceful sanctuary to return to.

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: OK Giants fans, you do the Math

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San Francisco Rafael Devers shows how big an RBI double meant to him in the top of the first inning against the Atlanta Braves during their doubleheader at Truist Field in Cumberland GA on Wed Jun 17, 2026 (AP News photo)

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

OK Giants fans, you do the Math

By Amaury Pi Gonzalez

Amaury Pi-González

The game Thursday night (June 18) at Atlanta was rained out and will be played on August 31.

So far this season, the San Francisco Giants have played 74 games, won 31, and have 88 games left to complete the 162-game regular season.

For the postseason, you need an average between 84 and 90 wins. Do the math, but it looks like an impossibility, better yet, a miracle. Can it be done? Sure, but the odds are between 2 to 3%

Here is the biggest exception: 1914 Boston Braves: On July 4, they sat in last place with a 26-40 record, but finished the season on an incredible 68-19 run to capture the pennant and sweep the World Series. Braves also had two 26 game winners that contributed to their comeback cause Bill James (26-7) and Dick Rudolph (26-10)

Have fun!

Note: Giants are sellers. The challenge for this team is that some of their players, like Willy Adames, Luis Arraez, and Rafael Devers, and others,  have big contracts and are not easy to trade, which makes it much more difficult.

Quote:

“Being traded is like celebrating your 100th birthday. It might not be the happiest occasion in the world, but consider the alternative?”

— Joe Garagiola

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

In the vibrant center of downtown San Francisco, Hotel Nikko offers a serene retreat defined by calm, understated luxury and the thoughtful precision of Japanese-inspired service. Each detail is designed to create a restorative experience where modern comfort and wellness come together effortlessly.

Guests are welcomed into spacious, contemporary rooms that blend clean design with subtle Japanese influences and intuitive, tech-enabled amenities. Throughout the hotel, a sense of tranquility is balanced with engaging, on-site experiences that elevate every stay.

At the top of the hotel, a glass-enclosed indoor pool offers a peaceful escape above the city an inviting space to unwind or, during the summer months, transform into a lively “dive-in” movie experience. Every Friday and Saturday night, families can enjoy classic kids’ films poolside, creating memorable moments in a truly unique setting.

Dining at Hotel Nikko is equally distinctive. ANZU Restaurant is home to San Francisco’s only Japanese breakfast buffet, offering an authentic and refined start to the day. In the evening,

Kanpai Sushi Lounge delivers an experiential dining atmosphere where craftsmanship and flavor meet in a sophisticated setting.

For entertainment, Feinstein’s at the Nikko brings world-class live music and cabaret performances directly to the hotel, offering an intimate and vibrant nightlife experience without ever leaving the property.

Located at 222 Mason Street near Union Square, Hotel Nikko places guests steps away from the city’s premier shopping, dining, and cultural attractions while offering a peaceful sanctuary to return to.

Sacramento A’s game wrap: A’s Five Run First Gave Jump All He Needed to blank Angels 5-0

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Sacramento A’s pitcher Gage Jump (61) was dealing pitching seven innings not allowing a run and just one hit before being relieved against the Los Angeles Angels at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento (AP News photo)

By Mauricio Segura

The Sacramento Athletics did not draw out Thursday night’s win. They took the first inning, did their damage, and secured a 5-0 win over the Los Angeles Angels.

After Gage Jump worked a quick top of the first, the Green and Gold went right to work against Angels starter Ryan Johnson. Zack Gelof opened the bottom half with a single to left, extending a hitting streak that had already reached 21 games before the first pitch. Nick Kurtz followed with a double to left, putting two runners in scoring position and giving the heart of the order the perfect scenario to cash in.

Shea Langeliers wasted no time doing what “Bangaliers” has been known to do. The A’s catcher drove a three-run homer to center, putting the Athletics ahead 3-0 and giving the home side instant control. Langeliers entered the game as the leading vote-getter among American League catchers in the first All-Star ballot update, and his bat gave that campaign a pretty convincing new campaign ad. His power has been a major part of the A’s season success, and this swing just proved what his bat brings to the team.

The inning was not finished. Tyler Soderstrom followed with a solo homer to left-center, turning back-to-back big swings into a 4-0 lead. Jacob Wilson then singled to right, Jonah Heim added another base hit, and Carlos Cortes moved Wilson to third with a fly ball to center. Henry Bolte finished the scoring with a sacrifice fly, bringing in Wilson and making it 5-0. By the end of the inning, the Athletics had sent ten batters to the plate and built all the offense they would need.

From there, the game became Gage Jump’s showcase. The rookie left-hander, making just his fifth major league start, did not show in any way how new he is to the show. Jump allowed only one hit over seven scoreless innings, striking out seven and working around three walks.

His best escape came in the fourth, when Nick Madrigal drew a free pass and Oswald Peraza doubled with two outs. With two Angels in scoring position, Jump struck out Christian Moore to end the threat and keep the shutout intact.

That was the Angels’ best chance against him. Jump struck out Moore three times overall, got Logan O’Hoppe looking in the fifth, and fanned both Peraza and Moore in the seventh. When Vaughn Grissom drew a free pass to start the seventh, Jump kept the inning from turning messy. After two strikeouts, Langeliers ended it by picking Grissom off first, a catcher’s dagger that kept the Angels stuck at zero.

The Athletics’ defense backed Jump with steady work. Henry Bolte covered center field recording several outs in the gaps and adding a hit and an RBI at the plate. Wilson continued to look smooth at shortstop, part of a defense that entered the game with one of the best fielding marks in the majors.

The Angels’ bullpen settled things down after Johnson’s rough first inning. Brent Suter threw two scoreless frames, and Ryan Zeferjahn worked around two eighth-inning free passes. But by then, the damage had already been done. The Athletics’ early burst stood up because Jump turned the Angels’ lineup into a long evening of fly balls, strikeouts, and missed chances.

Mason Barnett took over in the eighth and worked through trouble after Denzer Guzman drew a free pass and pinch-hitter Wade Meckler singled. Barnett struck out O’Hoppe and escaped when Nick Madrigal flied to center. Hogan Harris handled the ninth, giving up singles to Grissom and Moore but striking out Jo Adell, Peraza, and Guzman to finish the shutout.

The A’s, already riding one of the best home run streaks in the majors, added two more in the first inning and then let Jump do the heavy lifting. For a team trying to stay in the American League West chase, this was a much needed win.

The sequel brings a tough mound matchup, as Jeffrey Springs (3-7, 5.13 ERA, 68 K) gets the ball for the Athletics against Angels right-hander José Soriano (8-4, 2.79 ERA, 92 K), with first pitch set for 6:40 p.m. Pacific.

Costa Rican-born Mauricio Segura has been covering sports in the Bay Area since 2001 for a variety of magazines and newspapers, as well as his own publication, Golden Bay Times.

Whether you’re pre-gaming with the Kings or celebrating an A’s win, Cyprus Grille at the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena is your downtown go-to.

⚡Craft cocktails? Check.
🔥Game-day bites? Oh yeah.
🏟️Steps from Golden 1 Center? You bet.

Open daily, Cyprus Grille is serving up local flavor with a front-row seat to the action. Stop by before or after the game—or make it your new downtown hangout.

Cyprus Grille—where fans fuel up.

📍Located inside the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena @ 300 J Street

Happy Hour – 4pm-6pm

Show your ticket for additional discounts when dining in. 

San Francisco Giants report: Giants-Braves game postponed Thursday rescheduled for Aug 31st in Atlanta

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Atlanta Braves grounds crew put the tarp on Truist Field in Cumberland GA as the game between the San Francisco Giants and Atlanta Braves was postponed and rescheduled for Mon Aug 31st at Truist Field. (AP News photo)

By Barbara Mason

The San Francisco Giants game which was scheduled at Truist Field in Cumberland GA against the Atlanta Braves has been postponed Thursday and rescheduled for Mon Aug 31st for a one game series in Atlanta.

Nasty weather in Atlanta has not dampened the Giants will to win. After the first game of the series was suspended on Tuesday the Giants played a double-header against the Braves winning both ends of the doubleheader on Wednesday in Atlanta.

The first game winning by the score of 7-2 and the second game in a closer contest with San Francisco coming out on top 7-5. The Giants were going for the sweep of the three game set Thursday but mother nature had other plans. A tropical storm had been forecast this week and it came to fruition Thursday afternoon.

The Giants had to have been really upset after playing so well in the first two games. A sweep was for sure on their radar going into game three Thursday. They were certainly on a roll at the plate hitting three home runs in the fifth inning of game one.

Those long balls came off the bat of Willy Adames, Jung Hoo Lee, and Rafael Devers and it did not stop there, Bryce Eldridge, Luis Arraez, Matt Chapman pretty much the entire team has been contributing.

In game two, three home runs in the second inning and so this team has been really hot. They probably would have had a great shot at a sweep Thursday if game three had not been cancelled.

The team will now travel to Miami for a three game series with the Marlins over the weekend. Rain is expected with some lightning and thunder in the mix and temperatures in the low 90’s.

Again we will have to wait and see what it looks like at first pitch Friday night. Right now starting pitcher for the Giants will be Landen Roupp with a 5-7 win/loss record and a 4.24 ERA. The Marlins have yet to decide who will take the mound Friday.

Miami has some solid hitters in Kyle Stowers, Esteury Ruiz, as well as Otto Lopez with a .225 batting average and Liam Hicks a .280 batting average. They do come into Friday’s game after losing a series to the Phillies.

San Francisco of course has a lengthy list of great hitters, Luis Arraez .324, Bryce Eldridge .324, Jung Hoo Lee .331, Casey Schmitt .280, and Daniel Susac .286. Some solid bats on the team and they were very tough defensively in their last two games.

You throw in Matt Chapman, Willy Adames, Casey Schmitt and Drew GIlbert and these guys have all figured in their recent success.

It’s off to Miami and LoanDepot Park for Friday night with starting pitchers for San Francisco RHP Landen Roupp (5-7 ERA 4.24) Miami has not announced a starter as of yet. First pitch for game one of the series is scheduled for 4:10 PM.PDT.

In the vibrant center of downtown San Francisco, Hotel Nikko offers a serene retreat defined by calm, understated luxury and the thoughtful precision of Japanese-inspired service. Each detail is designed to create a restorative experience where modern comfort and wellness come together effortlessly.

Guests are welcomed into spacious, contemporary rooms that blend clean design with subtle Japanese influences and intuitive, tech-enabled amenities. Throughout the hotel, a sense of tranquility is balanced with engaging, on-site experiences that elevate every stay.

At the top of the hotel, a glass-enclosed indoor pool offers a peaceful escape above the city an inviting space to unwind or, during the summer months, transform into a lively “dive-in” movie experience. Every Friday and Saturday night, families can enjoy classic kids’ films poolside, creating memorable moments in a truly unique setting.

Dining at Hotel Nikko is equally distinctive. ANZU Restaurant is home to San Francisco’s only Japanese breakfast buffet, offering an authentic and refined start to the day. In the evening,

Kanpai Sushi Lounge delivers an experiential dining atmosphere where craftsmanship and flavor meet in a sophisticated setting.

For entertainment, Feinstein’s at the Nikko brings world-class live music and cabaret performances directly to the hotel, offering an intimate and vibrant nightlife experience without ever leaving the property.

Located at 222 Mason Street near Union Square, Hotel Nikko places guests steps away from the city’s premier shopping, dining, and cultural attractions while offering a peaceful sanctuary to return to.

Sacramento A’s game wrap: Pirates Plunder Sacramento; Bucs O’Hearn with six RBIs career high in 12-4 beating of Sac

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Sacramento A’s left fielder Tyler Soderstrom (21) goes down to make a catch on the fly against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento on Wed Jun 17, 2026 (Golden Bay Times photo)

By Mauricio Segura

WEST SACRAMENTO–The Pittsburgh Pirates wasted no time turning the game sideways, roughing up Sacramento A’s starter Aaron Civale for five runs in the first two innings and forcing the Athletics to spend the rest of the night chasing a game that had already picked up speed without them.

The Pirates battered Civale early and never gave the Athletics much room to breathe in a 12-4 win. Civale, making his return from the injured list after right shoulder tendonitis, did not get the smooth reception he wanted. Spencer Horwitz opened the game with a double to right, Brandon Lowe drew a walk, and Bryan Reynolds bounced a ground-rule double into right to score Horwitz. Ryan O’Hearn followed with a two-run double to left, and just like that, Pittsburgh had a 3-0 lead before the Athletics had taken a swing.

Braxton Ashcraft made that lead look even bigger by setting down the A’s in order in the first. Nick Kurtz struck out, Shea Langeliers lined out, and Tyler Soderstrom also lined out, giving Sacramento no early leeway. Pittsburgh kept pecking away in the second. Jared Triolo singled, Horwitz doubled again, Lowe singled home Triolo, and Reynolds drove in Horwitz with a single to center. The Pirates led 5-0 after two innings, and the Athletics were already staring up a steep hill.

Civale’s outing ended after he issued a leadoff walk to Lowe in the fourth. José Suarez took over, but O’Hearn greeted him with a two-run homer to left, pushing Pittsburgh ahead 7-0. O’Hearn was the hammer all game, finishing with a double, homer, single, and five RBIs. Horwitz also gave the Pirates a major boost from the top of the order, reaching four times with two doubles and two walks while scoring three runs.

For the Athletics, there were a few bright spots buried in the rubble. Jonah Heim picked up singles in the fourth and sixth. Kurtz, who entered the game as one of the most productive hitters in baseball and had been on a strong June tear, singled to open the sixth.

Langeliers followed with a walk, and after Soderstrom’s grounder and a Pittsburgh error moved the action along, Jacob Wilson lined a two-run single to center. That cut the deficit to 7-2 and gave the home side a little movement, even if it was not enough to truly rattle the Pirates.

Pittsburgh had its biggest burst in the seventh. Marcell Ozuna led off with a homer to center, Jake Mangum singled, Triolo and Henry Davis were hit by pitches, and the inning snowballed from there. Horwitz drew a bases-loaded walk, Lowe lifted a sacrifice fly, and O’Hearn added a two-run single to center. By the time the inning ended, the Pirates had turned the game into a 12-2 burial.

Henry Bolte gave Sacramento a quick jolt in the bottom half, launching a solo homer to center off Evan Sisk. It was a nice response from the rookie, who entered the day batting over .300 and had been one of the more interesting young bats in the Athletics’ lineup.

Zack Gelof added another swing worth remembering in the ninth, driving a solo homer to left off Isaac Mattson. Gelof’s blast extended his career-best hitting streak to 21 games, continuing one of the best individual runs by an Athletics hitter this century.

The problem was that most of the A’s offense came too late and too far apart. Sacramento struck out 11 times and managed only six hits. Lawrence Butler had a rough night with four strikeouts, while Kurtz struck out three times. Ashcraft gave Pittsburgh six strong innings, allowing two runs, only one earned, on four hits and three walks. He kept Saccramento from gathering momentum until the game was already leaning heavily toward Pittsburgh.

The loss was another reminder of the Athletics’ strange season. They have enough offense to make pitchers sweat, enough power to flip a game in one swing, and enough young talent to keep things interesting. But the pitching has been leaking runs too often, especially at home, and this one got away before the Green and Gold could make their bats matter.

For Game 1 of a new four game weekend series against the Angels Thursday, Sacramento will send rookie left-hander Gage Jump (2-1, 3.09 ERA, 23 K) to the mound against Angels right-hander José Soriano (8-4, 2.79 ERA, 92 K). This matchup has real bite if Jump can keep the ball in the yard and Soriano brings his usual trouble. First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. Pacific.

Costa Rican-born Mauricio Segura has been covering sports in the Bay Area since 2001 for a variety of magazines and newspapers, as well as his own publication, Golden Bay Times.

Whether you’re pre-gaming with the Kings or celebrating an A’s win, Cyprus Grille at the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena is your downtown go-to.

⚡Craft cocktails? Check.
🔥Game-day bites? Oh yeah.
🏟️Steps from Golden 1 Center? You bet.

Open daily, Cyprus Grille is serving up local flavor with a front-row seat to the action. Stop by before or after the game—or make it your new downtown hangout.

Cyprus Grille—where fans fuel up.

📍Located inside the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena @ 300 J Street

Happy Hour – 4pm-6pm

Show your ticket for additional discounts when dining in. 

Giants Sweep Double-Header Win Night Cap Against Braves 7-5

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By Barbara Mason

The San Francisco Giants won the second game of a double-header with the Atlanta Braves 7-5. The Giants took an early lead hitting three home runs in the second inning and would not score again until the ninth inning scoring two more runs. Those two late runs made all the difference in the game. They are now 2-0 in the series.

Game recap: The Giants picked up exactly where they left off in game one scoring the first run of the game taking a 1-0 lead. Luis Arraez walked and Rafael Devers came to the plate and hit a double driving Arraez home for the game opening run. Giants starting pitcher Carson Whisenhunt gave up a walk and a single in the bottom of the first but got out of the inning.

San Francisco had a four run top of the second. Adames hit a solo home run, his second of the series. Arraez hit their second home run of the game with Eric Haase on base to extend the Giants lead to 4-0.

With two outs, San Francisco hit their third home run of the inning a Bryce Eldridge solo shot for a 5-0 lead going into the third inning. The Giants had really come out with a lot of offensive energy taking control of the game early. In the bottom of the second, the Braves left two runners stranded coming away empty.

JR Ritchie gave up a walk in the top of the third but not much else. The Braves would be looking for some production at the plate in the bottom of the third but Whisenhunt went three and out in the inning.

San Francisco had their first three and out in the top of the fourth inning. The Braves managed an Austin Riley single but not much else as the game went into the fifth inning. Through four innings, Whisenhunt was terrific giving up only three hits, and no runs.

JR Ritchie remained in the game despite giving up the five runs but did go three and out in the top of the fifth inning. Whisenhunt continued humming on a roll as he also went three and out in the inning.

So far the Giants three home runs had been the highlight of this game through five innings. There had not been a whole for Braves fans to cheer about going into the sixth inning. There had not been much offensive action for either team since the second inning.

The Braves got something going in the bottom of the sixth inning. Matt Olson started the rally with a single followed by an Ozzie Albies single. Austin Riley singled to load the bases and Atlanta had three hits in a row.

The San Francisco bullpen got really busy after the three hits. The Riley single drove Olson home and the Braves were finally up on the scoreboard. JT Brubaker would come into the game and relieve Whisenhunt who went five innings allowing six hits, one earned run with two strikeouts. Dominic Smith hit a sacrifice fly for the second out, Albies scored and we hat a 5-2 game. Brubaker was able to get out of the inning.

The Braves had gotten something going in the game and San Francisco would be looking to get a little traffic on base in the top of the seventh. While the Giants did not get that insurance run they did go three and out. Sam Hentges had relieved Brubaker in the inning.

In the bottom of the eighth inning the GIants were six outs away from the win but they were also facing the heart of the Atlanta order. With Olsen on base with no outs there was another pitching change for the Giants. Ryan Walker relieved Sam Hentges who had pitched the seventh inning giving up only the one hit. Austin Riley singled and Atlanta had two runners on base with two outs. The Braves left the two runners stranded when Rowdy Tellez struck out.

San Francisco was now three outs away from winning game two against one of the best teams in MLB. The Giants started the ninth inning with a Casey Schmitt single. Jonah Cox would run for Schmitt and would go on to steal second base.

Drew Gilbert was hit by a pitch and San Francisco had two runners on base. Eric Hasse sacrificed and the two runners advance to second and third. Arraez hit a single that drove in Cox and Gilbert giving the Giants a couple of insurance runs and a 7-2 lead.

The Braves started another rally in the bottom of the ninth putting this game in jeopardy for the Giants. Matt Gage took the mound for the ninth inning. Jair Carmago got on base followed by a Mauricio Dubon home run and the Braves were trailing 7-4.

Drake Baldwin and Olson both singled and Atlanta had runners at the corners. Another pitching change for the Giants as Tristan Beck came in to try and close out this game. Baldwin scored on a wild Beck pitch making it a 7-5 San Francisco lead with Olson on second and only one out.

Albies grounded out and Beck struck Riley out and that was the ball game.This game had gotten a little too close for comfort. San Francisco had hung on and the Giants had won the first two games of this series

Game notes: After a great start on this current road trip, the Giants took on the Braves in the night cap of this double-header Wednesday. Tueday’s game one had been suspended due to inclement weather and was finished earlier Wednesday afternoon with the Giants taking game one of the series 7-2.

This evening lefty Carson Whisenhunt took to the mound for the Giants after being elevated to the roster.Wisenhunt in the night cap pitched five ininngs allowing six hits and two earned runs.Wisenhunt was 3.65 ERA in 69 innings with 77 strikeouts and 30 walks in Triple-A Sacramento.

The Giants did get a chance to see him last season in five starts where he did struggle. This season he has looking improved and has been trying to get his changeup working for him. The Giants certainly need a more dependable starting rotation right now the sweep might influence some decisions in their search for a rotation.

The Braves who boast some of the best pitchers in the league saw starter JR Ritchie struggle pitching five innings allowed five hits and five earned runs. After first game played under sunny skies, the second game forecast was flawless weather-wise.

It was an exciting second inning for San Francisco with Adames, Arraez and Bryce Eldridge hitting home runs. They would not score again in the game until the ninth inning. The two runs they scored were the difference in the win.

The Giants got a sweep of the double-header winning both ends 7-2 in the front game and 7-5 in the night cap Wednesday night for the sweep. It is a wait and see for Thursday’s game with a tropical storm headed in around 2:00 PM Atlanta time. Landon Roupp will take the mound for San Francisco with a 5-7 win/loss record and a 4.24 ERA. The Braves will start Martin Perez. He comes into this game with a 5-3 win/loss record and a 2.90 ERA.

Golden State on 4-Game Winning Streak, defeating Wings, 91-80

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Golden State Valkyries Cecilia Zandalasini drvies to the paint on Dallas Wings Azzi Fudd at Chase Center in San Francisco, CA on June 17th, 2026. (Photo credits to Bob Kupbens Imagn Images)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Valkyries have now won their last four games in a row, as they hosted and defeated the Dallas Wings. This was the Valkyries’ second of three home games this week, and so far, they have won every home game. After having a rough start and going down 12 points, the Valkyries would come back and get the win against the Wings, 91-80. This was also the Valkyries tenth win of the season.

The Valkyries are on a four game winning streak. Golden State sent out Kayla Thornton, Gabby Williams, Kiah Stokes, Cecilia Zandalasini, and Veronica Burton. No changes or switches, as these were the same starters as in their last game on Monday evening. Golden State Gabby Williams is averaging 1.8 steals per game, which is sixth best in the WNBA.

The Dallas Wings have won six of their last eighth games coming into this game. So Dallas sent out Paige Bueckers, Arike Ogunbowale, Azzi Fudd, Awak Kuier, and Jessica Shepard, hoping to make the team win seven of their last nine games. In their last game, Arike Ogunbowale led the team with her 22 points, seven assists, four rebounds, and went 5-of-11 from deep.

Dallas started the game solidly, going 5-of-9 on the floor. Wings Awak Kuier got the first bucket of the night on a driving layup. Their shooting got the Wings an early lead halfway through the first quarter. While Golden State saw some early struggles and has already gotten itself five turnovers. The quarter would end with Dallas having a 9-point lead, 26-17.

With Golden State’s 6 turnovers starting the second quarter, the Valkyries were still on attack mode against Dallas. Valkyries Gabby Williams would hit a 23-foot three-pointer to cut the lead to two points, 30-28. In the next possession, Williams would get another shot to fall from deep to give the Valkyries their first lead of the night. Then, Valkyries Kayla Thornton would knock down a three pointer of her own and extend the team’s lead, 35-30.

Golden State went on a 16-0 run, while Dallas would miss their last ten shots in a row. The Valkyries hustle on the rebounds, and getting second chance shots has gotten them back, and overall hold control of the game. By the end of the 2nd quarter, the Valkyries hold their largest lead of the night so far at 11 points, 44-33. The Valkyries would outscore the Wings, 31-9, in the first half.

At the start of the third quarter, Golden State would get themselves another turnover, but their first since the 1st quarter. Then Wings Azzi Fudd gets the first shot of the second half with a midrange jumper shot. With both teams locking in on their perimeter defense, the Valkyries would still find a way to attack and cut out a pass to their shooters. Golden State holds the lead at the end of the 3rd quarter, 64-62

In the final quarter of the game, Dallas would try every effort to cut the lead. The Wings saw the closest to getting back the lead at seven points, 71-64. However, Ballhalla would come alive as the fans’ energy gave the Valkyries energy to close out this game. With just three minutes left, the score was Valkyries lead, 81-76, and the Wings were still trying to take this win on the road.

Valkyries Kaitlin Chen would take over the rest of the game, as she drives to the paint, absorbs the contact, and gets the shot to go in. Both teams were able to see a lot of success in the paint, as they both got over 30 and more points in the paint. As the time winds down, Valkyries Kaila Charles would get the offensive rebound and make the layup to push the lead to nine points, 87-78.

As the game reached the end, it would be the home team, the Valkyries, getting the win and making it their fourth in a row. Five Valkyrie players would finish the game in double-digit scoring, but were led by Gabby Williams. Gabby Williams would finish the game with 22 points, second rebounds, and four assists.

The Golden State Valkyries will play their third and final home game of the week as they host the Minnesota Lynx. The two teams will play each other on Friday at 7 p.m. Minnesota won their first matchup in Minnesota, 87-84, earlier this month on June 4th. The game will be broadcast live on ION.