Tag: Sports Radio Service

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: MLB The Frontrunners for Expansion

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According to sources the top three cities that MLB and MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred are considering for expansion are Utah, Portland and Nashville. Cities that look like their out of the hunt for expansion Oakland and Montreal two former MLB towns. (AP News photo)

MLB:The Frontrunners for Expansion

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

By Amaury Pi Gonzalez

Oakland is never going to get an expansion team in Major League Baseball. John Fisher folded his tent in Oakland and took the Circus on a crusade to Sacramento, with Las Vegas as their ultimate stop. John Fisher killed Major League Baseball in Oakland.

But currently, two cities are leading the race for expansion. Portland, Oregon, and Salt Lake City, Utah. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has stated that he hopes to have the expansion process in place before his term ends in January 2029. –

Numero Uno: Portland seems to be ahead and a leading contender for one of the two expansion cities. Portland is pursuing a team through its Portland Diamond Project. They have strong civic support and plans for a stadium.

A final ownership group of people with financial resources is still needed; the largest city in Oregon is leading the way. The Portland Trail Blazers are the only professional team in the top leagues: the NBA, NFL, NHL, and MLB. The State of Oregon has a total population of 4,280,000, of which 635,000 live in Portland, its largest city.

-Numero Dos: Salt Lake City. They are preparing to be a potential Major League Baseball expansion city. They are developing a 100-acre Power District, for mixed use that includes a site for their future ballpark, together with housing, retail and green spaces.

The construction of that district is underway and basically waiting for MLB through their Commissioner Rob Manfred to select them as a one of the two new major league towns. The State of Oregon population is 4.5 million and Salt Lake City their largest city with 218,000 residents.

Officials in Salt Lake City said that they intend to be “shovel-ready” for the job, if a team is awarded. In the State of Utah there are two teams among the top pro-sports league. The Utah Jazz in the NBA and The new NHL team, the Utah Mammorth which officially began play in the 2024–25 season.

Last two: The last expansion teams in MLB history were the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Tampa Bay Rays, which began play in 1998. Currently, MLB has 30 teams, the NBA has 30, the NFL has 32, and the NHL has 32. Major League Soccer (MLS) does not rank higher than the MLB, NBA, NFL or NHL in terms of average franchise valuation or revenue. The main reason I have not listed them.

Happy Halloween!

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.

While in the Bay Area, great food and great prices. 998cuba.com

San Jose Sharks podcast Lincoln Juarez: Nedeljkovic key factor in keeping New Jersey out of the nets on Thursday

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San Jose Sharks left winger William Eklund (72) scores on the New Jersey goaltender Jake Allen (34) in the first period at SAP Center in San Jose on Thu Oct 30, 2025 (AP News photo)

San Jose Sharks podcast Lincoln Juarez:

#1 How quickly did William Eklund score for the Sharks, and in what fashion did he get that goal?

#2 The two Sharks were really moving offensively against New Jersey the two Sharks players who scored a goal and an assist each from the match they were Alex Wennberg and Philipp Kurashev,

#3 Sharks’ goalie Alex Nedeljkovic saved 29 shots out 31 shots and was the key figure keeping the Devils out of the nets on Thursday night.

#4 What milestone did Alexander Wennberg achieve during this game while also contributing offensively?

#5 The Sharks begin the first of back to back games starting with the Colorado Avalanche Saturday at 1pm and on Sunday against the Detroit Red Wings at 5pm. Do you see the Sharks handling these two teams much like they did against New Jersey?

Join Lincoln Juarez for the San Jose Sharks podcasts each Friday at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Sharks Ignite a 5-2 Win Against the New Jersey Devils

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William Eklund celebrates his goal at SAP Center during the first period on Oct 30, 2025 (AP Photo)

By: Fernando Abarca (Sharks Beat writer)

SAN JOSE, CA– Thursday Night Hockey at the tank is always a great plan when the Teal win at home.

The San Jose Sharks were on a mission — and by the end of the night, they could proudly say, “Mission accomplished.” The Teal finally captured their first home win of the season, bouncing back impressively after a close loss to the Kings earlier in the week. Coming into this matchup against one of the top teams in the Metropolitan Division, the Sharks were certainly not the favorites — but they proved that determination and energy can flip any script.

Adding a touch of nostalgia, San Jose debuted their long-awaited throwback jerseys — and perhaps, just perhaps, they brought a little bit of luck with them. It was a touch of nostalgia in the game too as the Sharks who had not won a regulation game at home this season defeated the New Jersey Devils 5-2 at SAP Center.

The Sharks wasted no time making their presence felt. Just 42 seconds into the first period, William Eklund struck with a quick response, once again proving to be a key figure for this young San Jose squad. His early goal gave the Sharks exactly what they needed — momentum and belief.

Throughout the opening period, San Jose’s offense looked as sharp and cohesive as it has all season. Despite facing a tough and evenly matched opponent, the Sharks showcased a different mindset — faster, more aggressive, and more dominant. Their efforts paid off as Philipp Kurashev and Alexander Wennberg each found the back of the net before the end of the period, giving San Jose a commanding 3–0 lead heading into intermission.

The Devils responded early in the second period, taking advantage of a power-play opportunity when Dawson Mercer buried a shot to cut the deficit to 3–1. But the Sharks didn’t flinch. They stayed aggressive and continued to attack, with Will Smith and Tyler Toffoli each adding goals to extend the lead and reaffirm their importance to the team’s offensive core.

The third period tested the Sharks’ composure, as the Devils pressed hard to get back into the game. making several key saves to preserve the lead and keep San Jose in control. The defensive unit also stepped up, blocking shots and maintaining structure even as New Jersey increased the pressure late.

When the final horn sounded, the crowd at SAP Center erupted in celebration. The 5–2 victory wasn’t just another regular-season win — it felt symbolic. For a team that has struggled to find consistency early in the season, this performance showcased what the Sharks are capable of when their offense clicks and their energy stays high… as it should.

This home victory could very well mark the beginning of something positive for San Jose. With young stars like Eklund and Smith leading the charge, and veterans such as Toffoli and Wennberg providing experience and scoring touch, the Sharks showed balance, depth, and hunger. If they can carry this momentum forward, the Teal might just start seeing new things.

As the players saluted their fans at center ice, after the game, there was a sense of renewed belief in the building — a reminder that even in a long season, one big win can change everything.

November is going to start strong at the Tank as the Sharks welcome the Colorado Avalanche to kick off the month with perhaps another win.

San Jose Sharks podcast Fernando Abaraca: Sharks take on one of the NHL’s best New Jersey tonight

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Los Angeles Kings left wing Jeff Malott (39) battles for the puck with the San Jose Sharks defenseman Sam Dickinson in Tue Oct 28, 2025 at SAP Center (AP News photo)

San Jose Sharks podcast Fernando Abarca:

#1 The Sharks trailed 3-0 but managed to tie the game before ultimately losing 4-3. Which two Sharks players each recorded a goal and an assist to fuel the comeback?

#2 Sharks forward Will Smith scored to make it 3-1 in the second period. Who made the cross-ice pass that set up his one-timer?

#3 The game-winning goal was scored by a Kings defenseman with about 6:40 remaining. Which Sharks goaltender did he beat, and from where did he release the shot?

#4 Which Sharks player assisted on the tying goal (to make it 3-3) in the third period, and at what time did that goal occur?

#5 According to the recap, the Sharks were out-shot by a very large margin yet nearly recovered. What was the shot count disparity (Sharks vs. Kings), and how many saves did the Sharks’ goaltender record?

Fernando Abarca does the San Jose Sharks podcasts at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Sacramento Kings podcast Jeremiah Salmonson: Kings just couldn’t close Bulls out at United Center

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Former Chicago Bull and current Sacramento Kings forward DeMar DeRozan drives to the basket against the Bulls forward /center Jalen Smith (left) and guard/forward and former King Kevin Huerter at the United Center in Chicago on Wed Oct 29, 2025 (AP News photo)

Sacramento Kings podcast Jeremiah Salmonson:

#1 How did Zach LaVine’s scoring and shot-selection impact Sacramento’s effort in the game?

#2 What difference did DeMar DeRozan make in the mid-range and veteran leadership roles, and was it enough to lift the team late?

#3 How did Domantas Sabonis perform on the glass and in facilitating the offense, and could his influence have been greater in the outcome?

#4 In light of the team’s injury list (for example, Keegan Murray being out with a thumb injury) what effect did his absence have on the Kings’ depth and rotation?

#5 Considering the Kings’ recurring difficulty in closing out games and defending late crunch-time possessions (as indicated in recent previews), how well did they manage the final minutes — and which Kings player(s) stepped up or struggled most in that stretch?

Jeremiah Salmonson does the Sacramento Kings podcasts each Thursday at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

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: Vitello introduces himself to San Francisco

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San Francisco Giants president Buster Posey (left) and new manager Tony Vitello is introduced to the news media at a press conference at Oracle Park in San Francisco on Thu Oct 30, 2025 (AP News photo)

By Stephen Ruderman

SAN FRANCISCO–The Giants introduced their colorful new manager, Tony Vitello, in what turned out to be a massive press conference at Oracle Park this morning.

Members of the media and the Giants’ top brass all gathered on this foggy morning on the Club Level at Oracle Park, as Chairman Greg Johnson and President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey introduced Vitello to the city of San Francisco and Northern California.

It looked to be a rather-small crowd, but about 10 to 15 minutes prior to the start, a whole tsunami of people showed up. It felt like the entire city of San Francisco showed up.

Posey introduced Vitello, and presented him with a Giants’ cap and Giants’ jersey. As of right now, Vitello’s number will be 23, which was worn by Felipe Alou when he managed the club from 2003 to 2006.

It was a surreal experience for Vitello, who admitted that he never dreamed of being a big league ballplayer, as he admitted his skills were not up to par. However, he said that becoming a big league manager was a dream come true.

Members of Vitello’s family were in attendance, as were members of Vitello’s host family when he was a coach for the Salina Packers of the California Collegiate League in 2002. Vitello is actually pretty familiar with the Giants’ organization, and even said he sat behind home plate in Kansas City for Madison Bumgarner’s five-inning performance in Game 7 of the 2014 World Series.

Vitello is a revolutionary hire in the game of baseball. There have been many innovative things that have happened throughout the history of the game, and Vitello’s arrival is up there as one of the most notable.

Vitello is the first man to go straight from coaching college baseball to managing a major league team without any experience whatsoever in organized and professional baseball.

There’s always the question of how big league players will respond to a new manager. That question may be asked more than ever with a college head coach coming in to head a big league team

Outfielder Drew Gilbert, a character himself, who made himself a hit with his quirky personality, played for Vitello at Tennessee. So did starting pitcher Blade Tidwell, who came over from the Mets to the Giants along with Gilbert in the Tyler Rogers trade on July 30.

Gilbert was ecstatic when he heard the news. Vitello then said that he would be Gilbert’s babysitter.

On a podcast with Greg Olsen last week, Vitello said that personalities were a requirement. Vitello made reference to the 1993 Philadelphia Phillies, a team with many gregarious personalities.

Vitello touched up on his comments from a week ago.

“I think the biggest thing is to be comfortable in your own skin, and let [your] personality shine through, regardless of what [your] day is like,” said Vitello. “There is a lot of downtime in our sport, so personality is somewhat of a requirement for [things] to go as well as I think it could go.”

John Kruk, the Phillies’ first-baseman in 1993, and one of the biggest characters on that team, said that players would stay deep into the night after games to drink beer and talk about baseball.

“The thing is to let that stuff evolve organically,” added Vitello. “If you do have an environment that is entertaining, welcoming and fun, you tend to want to spend more time in that environment.

Even Max Scherzer, who pitched at a future first-ballot hall of famer heaped praise on the Giants’ new skipper. Vitello was Scherzer’s pitching coach at the University of Missouri, and even played a role in developing Scherzer into the hall of famer that he became.

When asked by John Shea how games would be managed, Posey was mum on how that would go, and said that he and Vitello would work in tandem.

Vitello will now get to work assembling his coaching staff, and as the 2025 World Series and Season near their end, Posey will soon get to work building the team for next season.

Cal Bears podcast Morris Phillips: Red hot Virginia kicks off with Cal Saturday at UC Berkeley

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Cal Bears wide receiver Jordan King (4) gets by Virginia Tech Hokies safety Tyson Flowers (11) in the first half at Blacksburg VA on Fri Oct 24, 2025 (AP News photo)

Cal Bears podcast Morris Phillips:

#1With freshman quarterback Jaron‑Keawe Sagapolutele under center for Cal, how will his ability to stretch the field and make quick reads affect Virginia’s secondary?

#2 Senior linebacker and team captain Cade Uluave anchors Cal’s defense — in what ways must he rise to meet Virginia’s physical run game and tight-end threats?

#3 Cal’s wide receiver corps includes Jacob De Jesus and QuaRon Adams — can these playmakers create separation and force Virginia’s defensive backs to commit early, thus opening up space for the Bears?

#4 Running back Kendrick Raphael is relied on to keep Cal’s offense balanced; how critical will his production be in setting up the pass and controlling tempo against Virginia’s front seven?

#5 On defense, Cal’s interior line includes players like Aidan Keanaaina and T.J. Bollers — how well can they generate pressure and disrupt Virginia’s offensive rhythm, especially on third-down situations?

Join Morris Phillips for the Cal Bears football podcasts Thursdays at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson: Can Gulbranson handle Pitt’s defensive front?

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Stanford Cardinal quarterback Ben Gulbranson (15) tries to get a pass away while under pressure from Miami Hurricanes defensive back Kelonte Scott (0) in the first half at Hard Stadium Miami on Sat Oct 25, 2025 (AP News photo)

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson:

#1 With Stanford Cardinal quarterback Ben Gulbranson now leading the offense, how will the Cardinal use his experience to challenge Pittsburgh’s defensive front?

#2 How important will running back Tuna Altahir be to Stanford’s game plan against the Panthers, and how can the Cardinal’s offensive line help him establish the ground game?

#3 On the defensive side, can Stanford linebacker Hunter Barth help limit big plays by Pittsburgh, especially in the passing game or on screen passes?

#4 Stanford wide receiver Jonanthony Hall is one of the younger playmakers for Stanford — how much of a factor could he be in upsetting Pittsburgh’s secondary?

#5 Finally, how is the Cardinal offensive line—anchored by senior tackle Jack Leyrer—expected to hold up against Pittsburgh’s blitzes and pass rushes?

Michael Roberson does the Stanford Cardinal podcasts each week at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

San Jose Sharks podcast Len Shapiro: Sharks face New Jersey for second time in a week; NJ one of the toughest teams in the NHL

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San Jose Sharks goaltender Araslav Askarov (30) can’t stop the shot of the Los Angeles Kings Brandt Clarke who shot it from the right circle at 6:40 in the third period for the tiebreaker. (AP News photo)

San Jose Sharks podcast Len Shapiro:

#1 The Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night had blown a three goal lead letting the San Jose Sharks catch up to tie it up 3-3 but the Kings Brent Clarke scored late in the game for the game winner beating the Sharks 4-3.

#2 With the loss the Sharks now have dropped their last three games in a row losing to the New York Islanders and Minnesota Wild on the road and the Kings on Tuesday.

#3 In the final 1:16 of the game the Kings got hit for a delay a game after Joel Edmundson got called for delay of game for flipping the puck over the glass and into the fans seats. The Sharks couldn’t capitalize on the power play taking six shots and failed to score.

#4 San Jose got scoring from Will Smith, Philipp Kurashev and Alexander Wennberg who each scored a goal a piece. The Sharks missed out missing four clean shots in that 57 second span during the first period. The Sharks currently are the only team in the NHL that have not won a game in regulation.

#5 The Sharks are back for their second of four home games. Thursday they’ll face off against the New Jersey Devils. The last time they faced New Jersey it wasn’t even a contest losing 3-1 on Fri Oct 24. New Jersey one of the most successful team in the NHL are 7-1.

Join Len Shapiro for the San Jose Sharks podcast at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: Mafia-NBA Gambling investigation -Gambino family mobster revealed

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Portland Trailblazers head coach Chauncey Billups who was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame on Sun Oct 12, 2024 at Uncasville Conn. Will his Hall of Fame status be under threat if found to have been fixing NBA games? (AP News photo)

Mafia-NBA Gambling investigation -Gambino family mobster revealed

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

Amaury Pi-González

Angelo Ruggiero Jr., a member of the Gambino crime family, is implicated in a recent NBA gambling scandal that involves rigging illegal high-stakes poker games . Federal prosecutors allege that he and other mob associates used these games to defraud wealthy participants, which included current and former NBA players.

He is the son of the deceased Gambino captain, Angelo “Quack Quack” Ruggiero Sr., a close associate of mob boss John Gotti. Ruggiero Jr. is accused of receiving proceeds from the rigged poker games, which allegedly used sophisticated technology like rigged shuffling machines, marked cards, and hidden cameras to cheat players out of millions of dollars a judge recently denied Ruggiero Jr.’s bail request, citing his prior conviction for witness tampering and ruling that he posed a significant risk to witnesses in the current case.

During that previous incident, Ruggiero Jr. allegedly pointed his hand like a gun at a witness in his jail cell and said, “You know how we take care of rats, we get up-close and personal”. The Mafia-NBA investigation by the Justice Department includes an illegal poker ring as part of a larger investigation into illegal sports betting involving several mob families and prominent figures, including NBA coach Chauncey Billups and player/guard Terry Rozier.

These investigations have been going on for a while. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New York City Police Department Organized Crime Control Bureau’s Joint Organized Crime Task Force began investigating individuals associated with the NBA for illegal gambling in 2023.

The bureau was alerted to unusual betting activity involving Rozier in March 2023. As the investigation continues, there will be more revelations, although I have to say, there is a better than 50-50 chance the Department of Justice knows much more that they will not reveal, for obvious reasons.

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.

While in the Bay Area, great food and great prices. 998cuba.com