Latest news with #2024WorldSeries
Newsweek
2 days ago
- Politics
- Newsweek
LA Dodgers Defy Trump With $1 Million for Families Hit by ICE Raids
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The Los Angeles Dodgers announced on Friday a $1 million commitment to support immigrant families affected by recent federal immigration raids in Southern California. "What's happening in Los Angeles has reverberated among thousands upon thousands of people, and we have heard the calls for us to take a leading role on behalf of those affected. We believe that by committing resources and taking action, we will continue to support and uplift the communities of Greater Los Angeles," Stan Kasten, president and CEO of the Dodgers, said in a statement emailed to Newsweek on Saturday afternoon. The donation comes following an announcement made on X, formerly Twitter, by the team earlier this week, saying they would not let U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents into their stadium parking lot when they tried to enter. However, an ICE spokesperson previously told Newsweek in an emailed statement that "ICE was never at Dodgers stadium, and thus never tried to gain access." Why It Matters The pledge marked the Dodgers' first public response to demands from fans, community leaders, and immigrant-rights advocacy groups who called on the franchise to take action and speak out against the ongoing ICE raids in the greater Los Angeles area. ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have expanded their operations in Los Angeles and across the country as President Donald Trump seeks to deliver on his campaign promise to carry out the largest deportation operation in United States history. ICE conducted raids in Los Angeles, which is home to the largest undocumented immigrant population in the U.S., and faced large protests in the city that largely remained peaceful with some instances of violence that prompted Trump to order the deployment of 4,000 members of California's National Guard and 700 U.S. Marines to assist in stopping violence, even as California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass insisted local law enforcement had the matter under control. The raids are following legal directive from federal authorities, but critics have raised concerns about the treatment of migrants by federal authorities as well as the tactics used by immigration agents during the raids. The Dodgers also received backlash in March after accepting Trump's invitation to visit the White House after they won the 2024 World Series championship. The Los Angeles Dodgers celebrate with the trophy after defeating the New York Yankees to win the 2024 World Series at Yankee Stadium on October 30, 2024, in New York City. The Los Angeles Dodgers celebrate with the trophy after defeating the New York Yankees to win the 2024 World Series at Yankee Stadium on October 30, 2024, in New York City. Photo byWhat To Know In a statement, the team said it had committed "$1 million toward direct financial assistance for families of immigrants impacted by recent events in the region," and would partner with the City of Los Angeles on the initiative. The team also indicated that more community-driven efforts would be announced soon and invited "other organizations to follow suit." The Dodgers announced their pledge a day after denying federal agents access to their stadium parking lot where ICE agents reportedly assembled before being met by protesters, a post from the team said on X. It remains unclear what ICE's intended operation entailed or whether anyone in the area had been arrested. The parking lot is jointly owned by the Dodgers' ownership group and the team's former owner, according to the Los Angeles Times. A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) previously told Newsweek that the department received a call from the Dodgers at 10:28 a.m. local time to address a crowd of protesters gathering in the parking lot. "LAPD officers arrived and assisted with keeping the peace," the spokesperson said. Bass publicly praised the Dodgers for their action, saying in the joint statement released by the team, "I want to thank the Dodgers for leading with this action to support the immigrant community of Los Angeles. These last weeks have sent shockwaves of fear rippling through every neighborhood and have had a direct impact on our economy." She concluded: "My message to all Angelenos is clear: We will stick together during this time and we will not turn our backs on one another—that's what makes this the greatest city in the world." This morning, ICE agents came to Dodger Stadium and requested permission to access the parking lots. They were denied entry to the grounds by the organization. Tonight's game will be played as scheduled. — Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 19, 2025 What People Are Saying Los Angeles Dodgers said in a statement: "The Dodgers and the City of Los Angeles have a proven ability to get financial resources to those in critical need, most recently seen in their efforts to aid victims of the January wildfires. Through our support of the city's efforts, the Dodgers will encourage those organizations in a similar position to use their resources to directly support the families and workers who have suffered economic hardship." Representative Jimmy Gomez, a California Democrat, said in a post on Facebook on Friday: "Let's be clear: ICE and other federal agents conducted raids in Hollywood, arresting people and transporting them to Dodger Stadium property to transfer them into other vehicles. DHS now claims the agents at Dodger Stadium weren't involved in ICE operations—but we know that's a lie. Same vans, same agents, same story. What they didn't count on was our community showing up and reporting the truth. And we're not backing down." Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said, per the Associated Press: "I think it's great. I'm sure the money is going to be allocated in the right way. I'm happy to hear that the Dodgers have done that, and it's certainly the right thing to do." Tom Homan, Trump's border czar, said during an appearance on Fox News this week: "When they double down, we triple down. So, the men and women of ICE are going to keep standing up, they're going to keep doing the job. They're working for the greatest president in my success on the got the most secure border in the history of the nation today. Criminal threats, illegal alien criminal threats, arrested and deported, are at a record high, much higher than Joe Biden." What Happens Next? The Dodgers stated that further details about community partnerships and additional initiatives supporting immigrant youth and families will be announced in the coming days. The team said it will involve "local community and labor organizations, including the California Community Foundation, the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor and others who are directly supporting our communities to aid youth and families with food insecurity, basic essentials and mental health services."
New York Post
2 days ago
- Sport
- New York Post
Luis Gil takes significant step in lengthy Yankees injury rehab
Access the Yankees beat like never before Join Post Sports+ for exciting subscriber-only features, including real-time texting with Greg Joyce about the inside buzz on the Yankees. Try it free Luis Gil is still at least a month and likely more away from the real thing, but on Saturday morning, he climbed the mound at Yankee Stadium and faced hitters for the first time since spring training. In a significant step in his rehab from a high-grade lat strain, Gil threw about 20 pitches of live batting practice and came out of it feeling encouraged about his road back to the Yankees rotation. Advertisement 'I felt really good out there,' Gil said through an interpreter. 'It's been a process. You heal little by little. Felt good to get on the mound and face some hitters.' Even in a best-case scenario, Gil may not make his season debut until early August given how methodical the Yankees have been with his buildup. But the reigning AL Rookie of the Year could deliver a big boost to the Yankees if he comes back healthy and looks like himself after the trade deadline. Advertisement 'Fortunately, after the [injury], it's been a slow buildup, but it's gone well every step of the way,' manager Aaron Boone said. 'So that's been encouraging. Now we start to build. Build lives, pitch counts and then eventually getting into rehab games. Definitely another important box to check.' Gil will likely throw at least a few more live batting practice sessions before going out on a rehab assignment to build his pitch count up. CHECK OUT THE LATEST MLB STANDINGS AND YANKEES STATS The Yankees typically like their rehabbing pitchers to get to 75-80 pitches before they take them back, though Boone left the door open for that to change depending on what their needs are by the time Gil is close to ready. Advertisement Luis Gil of the New York Yankees throws a pitch during the first inning during Game 4 of the 2024 World Series Jason Szenes / New York Post On Saturday, with the Yankees' 'non-regulars' all in the starting lineup against the Orioles, Gil faced bullpen catcher Peter Serruto and information coordinator Ryan McLaughlin, both former players, and struck them out two times each. Luis Gil has not pitched yet this season for the Yankees. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post Advertisement 'I think the process has been very good,' Gil said. 'But your mentality has to be very strong in order to go through it and keep a strong mindset through the long time off the field. 'But that has always been the focus, to go through it and get back as soon as possible.'
Newsweek
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
How to Buy Shohei Ohtani Game Used Memorobilia and Autographs: Ohtani Signature Collection
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Fanatics has launched the latest release from the Ohtani Signature Collection, featuring a monthly drop of limited-edition memorabilia from the Dodgers' star. Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers hits a two-run home run, his 50th of the season, during the seventh inning against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park on September 19, 2024 in Miami,... Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers hits a two-run home run, his 50th of the season, during the seventh inning against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park on September 19, 2024 in Miami, Florida. Ohtani is now the first MLB player to have at least 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in the same season. MoreLos Angeles Dodgers' Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani and Fanatics have partnered to give fans the opportunity to own some of the rarest and most historic artifacts from the reigning NL MVP and 2024 World Series champion's career. Ohtani made his much-anticipated pitching debut for the Dodgers yesterday, further heightening the hype around one of the most popular athletes in the world. He is already crushing it at the plate, so adding the other half of his game back into the fold could make him a lock to secure yet another NL MVP Award. Autographes, game-used memorabilia, or really just anything with Ohtani's name on it sends fans into a frenzy, making this a fantastic opportunity to be one of the few people in the world to have one of these items. Place your order before it is too late, as this release will be in high demand. This drop will only be available for a limited time, but if you act fast, Fanatics has you covered with the latest from the Ohtani Signature Collection. MLB Shohei Ohtani Los Angeles Dodgers Autographed Fanatics Authentic Framed Nike Gray Authentic Jersey Collage Commemorating the 2024 Season - Limited Edition #1/5 Shohei Ohtani Los Angeles Dodgers Autographed Fanatics Authentic Framed Nike Gray Authentic Jersey Collage Commemorating the 2024 Season - Limited Edition #1/5 Fanatics SHOP OHTANI SIGNATURE COLLECTION MLB Shohei Ohtani Los Angeles Angels Autographed Fanatics Authentic Game-Used MLB Baseball from 2018 Rookie of the Year Season - Limited Edition #2/5 Shohei Ohtani Los Angeles Angels Autographed Fanatics Authentic Game-Used MLB Baseball from 2018 Rookie of the Year Season - Limited Edition #2/5 Fanatics SHOP OHTANI SIGNATURE COLLECTION MLB Shohei Ohtani Los Angeles Dodgers Autographed Fanatics Authentic Framed Game-Used Baseball Shadowbox from Game 1 of the 2024 World Series with "WS Debut 10-25-24" Inscription - Limited Edition #5/5 Shohei Ohtani Los Angeles Dodgers Autographed Fanatics Authentic Framed Game-Used Baseball Shadowbox from Game 1 of the 2024 World Series with "WS Debut 10-25-24" Inscription - Limited Edition #5/5 Fanatics SHOP OHTANI SIGNATURE COLLECTION MLB Shohei Ohtani Los Angeles Dodgers Autographed Fanatics Authentic Player-Issued Nike Royal Authentic Jersey - Manufactured to Ohtani's Specifications Shohei Ohtani Los Angeles Dodgers Autographed Fanatics Authentic Player-Issued Nike Royal Authentic Jersey - Manufactured to Ohtani's Specifications Fanatics SHOP OHTANI SIGNATURE COLLECTION If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Shohei Ohtani makes Dodgers pitching debut. Here's how he did vs. Padres
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 16: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers throws a pitch during the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium on June 16, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by) Shohei Ohtani makes Dodgers pitching debut. Here's how he did vs. Padres originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia When Shohei Ohtani stepped onto the mound at Dodger Stadium on Monday night, it was more than just a moment, more than just an average opener, it was history, and the return of the unicorn whose only comparison in MLB history is Babe Ruth. Advertisement The ballpark buzzed with electricity and nearly every fan was in their seat ahead of first pitch. That's something that hadn't been seen since Game 1 of the 2024 World Series against the New York Yankees. Cameras clicked, hearts thumped, and 56,000 sellout fans packed the Chavez Ravine stands, holding their breath as baseball's unicorn took the mound for the first time since August 23, 2023, a span of 663 days. Ohtani's debut wasn't perfect, but it also could have gone a lot worse. After not pitching in nearly two years, the Japanese right-hander clearly showed signs of rust and lack of command in his first big league action of the season. Advertisement Ohtani threw 28 pitches in the first inning, with 16 strikes and 12 balls. The first batter he faced was Fernando Tatis Jr., and after working the count full, the Padres' leadoff man hit a bloop single to centerfield on a 99 MPH fastball from Ohtani. One throw later, Ohtani's pitch went to the backstop allowing Tatis Jr. to advance to second. Luis Arraez would eventually hit a single to centerfield putting runers on the corners with no outs. But Ohtani worked his way out of the jam. He got Machado to hit a sac fly to center that scored Tatis Jr. on a bang-bang play at the plate. He got a groundout from Gavin Sheets thanks to a nice diving play at second base by Tommy Edman, and then got Xander Bogaerts to ground out to third base to end the inning. Advertisement Ohtani's final line was one inning pitched, with two hits allowed, one earned run, no walks and no strikeouts. His fastest pitch of the night reached triple-digits, a whopping 100 MPH, a good sign that Ohtani is fully recovered from his second Tommy John surgery. Just one inning. But this wasn't about numbers. This was about a man doing something no one else alive can do. A two-way superstar, surgically rebuilt, returning from his second Tommy John surgery with the weight of a city—and arguably the entire baseball world—on his shoulders. He led off the bottom of the first inning and struck out against Padres' ace Dylan Cease, much to the chagrin of the sold out crowd, but they already witnessed what they came to see: Ohtani back on the mound, pitching for the first time in Dodger blue. Advertisement It had been less than 24 hours since the Dodgers dropped the bombshell: Ohtani would pitch Monday. In minutes, ticket prices exploded on the secondary market. A $30 bleacher seat became a $300 golden ticket. Parking lots filled early. Batting practice was a full-house affair. Even the Padres paused to watch him warm up. The results weren't perfect, but if there were doubts—about his health, his command, his readiness—they were silenced like a mic drop at center stage. This wasn't just a warm-up inning. It was a statement. The Dodgers' $700 million man showed that even after two Tommy Johns, even after nearly two years off the mound, he still has the stuff that turns All-Stars into punchlines. Ohtani's return marks a new chapter—not just for him, but for the Dodgers, Major League Baseball, and fans across the globe. His presence on the mound, and at the plate, brings a different gravity to the game. A sense that you're witnessing something that shouldn't be possible. Like watching Da Vinci paint with both hands at once. He's not back to full form yet. Patience will be needed as he builds back up to full strength. One inning at a time, one start at a time. But what he gave us Monday night was a glimpse of the magic. A reminder. A promise. Advertisement Shohei Ohtani is a pitcher again. And the world just got a little more fun.
USA Today
7 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Dodgers explain how Shohei Ohtani pitching debut came together so quickly
Dodgers explain how Shohei Ohtani pitching debut came together so quickly Show Caption Hide Caption Does Alex Rodriguez think Ohtani should get back into pitching? Sports Seriously's Mackenzie Salmon asks Alex Rodriguez about the Dodgers and Shohei Ohtani's focus on hitting than pitching right now. Sports Seriously LOS ANGELES — The day everyone in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization has waited for arrived quickly. More than 14 months after he made his team debut, Shohei Ohtani will make his Dodgers pitching debut Monday, June 16, hoping to return to the elite arm Los Angeles envisioned when they signed him and continue to be the ultimate unicorn of baseball. Pitching wasn't a thought in 2024 since Ohtani spent it recovering from his second Tommy John surgery. It wasn't a concern as he slugged his way to the 50-50 club, won his third MVP and the 2024 World Series. When the season started, it was a matter of when, not if Ohtani would pitch. The plans formed quickly. Prior to the Sunday, June 15 game against the San Francisco Giants, manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani would likely pitch one more simulated game during the week before making his debut. After the 5-4 victory, Roberts told reporters around 7:15 p.m. local time Ohtani would pitch at some point during the series against San Diego. At 7:30 p.m., the team made it official that he'd start in just under 24 hours. It's a much different tone than a few weeks ago when the assumption was Ohtani would be pitching after the All-Star break in mid-July. General manager Brandon Gomes said the idea came out a few days prior to Monday, and it was finalized within the past 24-48 hours. It not only stunned fans, but the players in the clubhouse too, reliever Alex Vesia told USA TODAY Sports. 'I had no idea that today was going to be today,' he said. 'It was news to me.' Gomes said conversations have been fluid throughout the rehab process, and after seeing how Ohtani looked in simulated games, it became clearer to get him in. This could be viewed like a rehab assignment, since his bat is too valuable to send him down to the minors. 'It got to the point where, hey, it feels like we should take that next step and almost look to finish the rehab at the major league level,' Gomes said. 'There is no playbook for this, so it has to be an ongoing conversation.' Gomes didn't say how much injuries played a role in the decision, but it sure forced the team's hand. It started the season with arguably one of the top rotations in baseball, but before April ended, Tyler Glasnow and Blake Snell were put on the injured list. They haven't pitched since, and the timetable for their return is unknown. The injuries only continued from there. Rookie Roki Sasaki went down in May and the rest of his season is unclear, while Tony Gonsolin went on the injured list June 7. That doesn't include the key bullpen arms out, such as Blake Treinen and Brusdar Graterol, plus Evan Phillips is done for the season. Luckily, the team got Clayton Kershaw back for his 18th big league season and he has looked solid, but he is the only solidified rotation arm alongside Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Dustin May. Gomes said the amount of injuries likely had Ohtani 'chomping at the bit,' but reiterated the team wanted to be smart and not jeopardize his future. Roberts did add Ohtani felt like he had done what was needed to pitch and was ready for the role. 'It's more like, 'well, I don't think there's anything else to do. I'm ready to go. What else do I need to do to get on a major league mound?'' Roberts recalled. Is Shohei Ohtani on a pitch count? The expectation was that Ohtani would pitch one inning against the San Diego Padres. Roberts said he expects extra adrenaline, but his focus will be on Ohtani's command, delivery and stress. The day will also serve as a starting point for how he feels after outings, and they will talk about his pitching duties on a day-by-day basis. While the plan is to get him stretched out as a starter by the time October rolls around, Roberts doesn't expect him to pitch every five days. The Dodgers skipper thought about moving him off the leadoff spot, but Ohtani said he has no issues with coming straight off the mound and into the batter's box. 'We'll see how it responds, and we're still gathering information. I think that going forward, it'll be helpful to what decisions we have' Roberts said. Given how eager Ohtani was to pitch, Roberts expects Ohtani to test how short his leash is. Not just in his pitching debut, but in subsequent starts. No matter what Ohtani wants, the team is going to be careful with him and likely leave him wanting more. 'We're going to still be cautious going forward with, obviously, his value and importance to the organization, and most importantly, his health too,' Roberts said. Yet for how mindful the Dodgers will be, it's an exciting day at Dodger Stadium. TickPick stated there was a 174% increase in the get-in price for the game, and there's a rush of fans ensuring they're in their seats to see Ohtani's highly anticipated first pitch. The Dodgers hope it's the start of another MVP-caliber role. 'We signed him to be a two-way player,' Gomes said. 'He's very much of the mindset that he wants to do that for a very long time.
