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Chicago Cubs fleece New York Yankees in Anthony Rizzo tradeRyan Heckmanon July 30, 2021 at 1:00 pm

Chicago Cubs (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
Chicago Cubs (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)

For 10 seasons, Anthony Rizzo has been the heart and soul of the Chicago Cubs. After three All Star Game appearances, four Gold Glove awards and a World Series title, Rizzo’s time in Chicago is now over.

On the last year of his contract, Rizzo was a definitive trade candidate. Indeed, the Cubs found a suitor and dealt Rizzo to the New York Yankees.

It is the end of an era in Chicago, as Rizzo leaves the Cubs to put on the pinstripes. His energy, smiling personality, humor and, of course, stellar play will be missed dearly.

Although it is a painful pill to swallow, the Cubs dealing Rizzo was inevitable. They had turned into surefire sellers a few weeks ago as the downward spiral began. At one point, many believed the return for Rizzo would be next to nothing. His 2021 season wasn’t too spectacular and it was clear he is not the same guy he once was.

Somehow, the Chicago Cubs were able to land two top Yankees prospects for Anthony Rizzo.

Not only did the Cubs find a suitor for Rizzo, but the Yankees had to bid higher than other interested ball clubs — and they did.

In exchange for Rizzo, the Cubs received the Yankees no. 9 and no. 12 overall prospects, according to the MLB’s Prospect Rankings.

Outfielder Kevin Alcantara now becomes the Cubs’ no. 9 ranked prospect after being traded. The 6-foot-6 outfielder should be due up in 2023.

Alcantara has a strong arm and plus instincts. He possesses above average strength at the plate and a quick bat. Through eight games in 2021, Alcantara was slashing .360/.448/.520.

Right-hander Alexander Vizcaino, meanwhile, becomes the Cubs’ no. 6 overall prospect now. Vizcaino’s strengths lie in his fastball and changeup. He could end up being a mid-rotation type of starter or a late-inning reliever, per his MLB scouting report.

Vizcaino is 22 years old and could be brought up to the Majors next year, while Alcantara is still just 19.

The fact that the Cubs were able to get two of the Yankees’ top 12 prospects in this deal is a thing of wonder. A lot of mock-up trades were projecting the Cubs would get far lower-ranked prospects in a deal for Rizzo, yet New York sent them two of their best.

The most interesting part about it all is that the Yankees will have plenty of work ahead if they are to contend this year, so giving up two significant prospects for a player on the decline is pretty shocking.

Now, Rizzo could turn around and prove that he’s got plenty left in him, which Cubs fans would have to be proud of. However, the fact is, he is hitting free agency after the season. No matter what, the Yankees overpaid.

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Chicago Cubs fleece New York Yankees in Anthony Rizzo tradeRyan Heckmanon July 30, 2021 at 1:00 pm Read More »

Chicago Bulls: Welcome back to Chicago, Ayo DosunmuRyan Tayloron July 30, 2021 at 12:00 pm

Chicago Bulls (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
Chicago Bulls (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

Arturas Karnisovas & Co. strikes again. The Chicago Bulls selected Chicago native, Ayo Dosunmu, with the 38th pick in the NBA draft. If you’re a Bulls fan, you should be speechless.

Dosunmu energized Big Ten basketball fans by leading the University of Illinois Fighting Illini to a first seed in the March Madness tournament.

It is easy to tell that Dosunmu will have a bright NBA future. He has an excellent basketball IQ, great pace for the game, and excellent playmaking ability.

The former Morgan Park and University of Illinois star is staying home in Chicago with the Bulls. It was a serendipitous occurence for him and Bulls fans on Thursday night.

Ayo Dosunmu is a great selection made by the Chicago Bulls in the 2021 NBA Draft.

Takeaway #1: The Bulls still need help at the point guard position.

It’s been known that the Bulls need assistance at point guard. Without going into much detail, the duo of Coby White and Tomas Satoransky did not work out for them last season.

The Bulls have been tied to names like Lonzo Ball, Dennis Schroeder, and Spencer Dinwiddie in free agency and the front office will most likely continue to recruit one of these names. What does this mean for Coby White?

White or Dosunmu could ultimately solve the ongoing issue of wing depth. White’s a bit small for the position but he’s a gifted scorer off the bench that could help take the pressure off of Zach LaVine. It would be easy to pair White with any other guard on the team to run the offense. It is a simple solution to a complicated problem but the Bulls have White for two more years.

Takeaway #2: The big man issue might be solved in-house.

While the “best available” strategy was clearly the plan that AKME had in mind going into the draft, it seemed viable that the Bulls would go for any other position than point guard to fix that issue in free agency.

While Dosunmu is not tied down to playing point guard, he certainly fits the model with his playmaking ability, defensive abilities, and ball-handling skills. That brings the Bulls back to the larger issue at hand. The big man. Currently, the Bulls don’t have a lot to work with at the position.

Lauri Markkanen seems as good as gone in free agency. Thaddeus Young is still waiting for the green light to return to the team with his partial guarantee. Daniel Theis is heading out to free agency. While it’s likely Young will return and the Bulls will make a run at Theis, that doesn’t leave the Bulls with depth at the four-spot.

It seems like the perfect time for last year’s second-round pick, Marco Somonovic, to make an immediate impact on the floor. The Bulls just inked him to the team and this could be his opportunity to step into the spotlight. Nevertheless, the Bulls could also work free agency to find another big man. Stay tuned to free agency because the Bulls will be extremely active.

Takeaway #3: Trust in AKME

This pick is a monstrous one because Dosunmu is a first-round talent. His draft stock may have fallen off after Illinois was kicked out of the March Madness tournament early but he is one of the most NBA-ready point guards in this draft.

Dosunmu has progressed his game dramatically since getting to Illinois. Last season, he averaged 20.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in the hardest basketball conference in the country, the Big Ten.

He improved his three-point shooting, eclipsing 39 percent from downtown on the season. He also improved his field goal percentage up to 48.8 percent, better than the previous seasons while taking 15.7 shots per game.

Dosunmu is a gifted scorer and while he doesn’t have the explosiveness that would cap off his offensive game, he is a smart player with the ability to navigate, catch-and-shoot, and use pick-and-roll to his advantage.

Most excitedly for the Bulls, Dosunmu’s defense was impeccable last season. He carried a 96.8 defensive rating and a 3.1 defensive box plus/minus, both drastically better than his previous seasons.

The moral of draft night is that Bulls fans should be excited about AKME as a front office duo. The fact that they did not waste assets trading up into the first round and were still able to obtain a first-round talent is unbelievable. Hats off to Karnisovas & Co. because they did not disappoint.

Related Story: The Chicago Bulls could consider Damien Lillard

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Chicago Bulls: Welcome back to Chicago, Ayo DosunmuRyan Tayloron July 30, 2021 at 12:00 pm Read More »

Goodman Theatre is back live with Mean Girlson July 30, 2021 at 12:41 pm

Show Me Chicago

Goodman Theatre is back live with Mean Girls

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Goodman Theatre is back live with Mean Girlson July 30, 2021 at 12:41 pm Read More »

Chicago Cubs: 3 last minute Kris Bryant trades to make before deadlineVincent Pariseon July 30, 2021 at 11:00 am

Chicago Cubs (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
Chicago Cubs (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
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Chicago Cubs, Jordan Wicks

(Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)

The Chicago Cubs are finally at the trade deadline. There isn’t much time for them to make their final deals but there is some business to take care of before the final buzzer. They haven’t had a very successful team so far this season. As a result, it has led to them selling from their roster. There are a lot of moves that they have made so far that suggest it is over.

Of course, it is sad when they trade players like Ryan Tepera, Andrew Chafin, and Joc Pederson. They also might trade guys like Craig Kimbrel and Zack Davies. All of these guys are great players that have made great contributions to their success in different ways. However, none of them have the emotional attachment to the fanbase as the guys who have won the World Series with the team.

The Cubs already traded one of those guys. Anthony Rizzo is on his way to the New York Yankees after a trade made on Thursday night. The Cubs are getting two prospects for him that should have a chance to become something someday.

Next on the list is the other two pending free agents. Javier Baez and Kris Bryant are players that will be considered trade bait all day. They might decide to keep Baez and work something out but Bryant feels as good as gone.

The Chicago Cubs might be trading Kris Bryant before the trade deadline passes.

If they are going to trade him, they are going to get some good players back in return but it might not be the return everyone is expecting. These are three trades that might be considered by teams that want him:

Next: Trade one sends Bryant west

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Chicago Cubs: 3 last minute Kris Bryant trades to make before deadlineVincent Pariseon July 30, 2021 at 11:00 am Read More »

Will The Geese Get Gone?on July 30, 2021 at 11:49 am

Getting More From Les

Will The Geese Get Gone?

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Will The Geese Get Gone?on July 30, 2021 at 11:49 am Read More »

1 killed, 15 wounded — including 14-year-old — in shootings in Chicago ThursdaySun-Times Wireon July 30, 2021 at 8:58 am

At least 16 people were shot, one fatally, in gun violence across Chicago Thursday.

The fatal attack occurred on the South Side. About 12:50 p.m., a 22-year-old man was in the 6500 block of South Peoria Street when a gray Audi drove by and someone inside opened fire, Chicago police said. Kevin Stephens was struck twice in the head and taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead, police and the Cook County medical examiner’s office said. The Audi fled south on Peoria after the shooting, police said.

Other attacks:

A 14-year-old boy was critically wounded in a double shooting early Thursday in Morgan Park on the Far South Side. The attack happened around 12:10 a.m. when someone opened fire in the 1600 block of West Waseca Place, Chicago police said. The teen was struck twice in the head and was taken to Roseland Hospital by a family member. He was then transferred to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn where he was listed in critical condition. A man, 29, was grazed in the head and refused medical treatment

Two people were wounded Thursday morning in a shooting in Park Manor on the South Side. The man and woman, both 20, were sitting in a parked car in the 7000 block of South Eberhart Avenue when someone walked up and opened fire around 1:50 a.m., police said. The man suffered wounds to the abdomen and was grazed in the waist, while the woman was grazed in the leg, police said. They went to St. Bernard Hospital, police said. The woman was released and the man was transferred to Stroger Hospital where his condition was stabilized.

A man was shot while driving Thursday morning in South Deering on the Far South Side. The man, 31, was driving in the 2200 block of East 103rd Street when someone fired shots from a black Jeep around 12:20 a.m., police said. The victim was struck in the head and ear, police said. He was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center and was listed in fair condition.

At least ten other people were wounded in shootings across Chicago.

One person was killed and seven others — including a 16-year-old — were wounded in shootings in Chicago Wednesday.

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1 killed, 15 wounded — including 14-year-old — in shootings in Chicago ThursdaySun-Times Wireon July 30, 2021 at 8:58 am Read More »

2 wounded in Roseland drive-by shootingSun-Times Wireon July 30, 2021 at 9:34 am

Two men were wounded in a drive-by shooting early Friday in Roseland on the South Side.

About 2:30 a.m., the men had just exited a vehicle in the 11200 block of South Normal Avenue when someone in a passing white car fired shots, Chicago police said.

One man, 33, was shot in the leg and the other man, 35, was struck in the back and leg, police said.

Both men were transported to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn in serious condition, police said.

There was no one in custody. Area Two detectives are investigating.

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2 wounded in Roseland drive-by shootingSun-Times Wireon July 30, 2021 at 9:34 am Read More »

DBU of the FCS? Southern Illinois seniors Brown, Ceasar lead dogs for Salukison July 30, 2021 at 9:25 am

Prairie State Pigskin

DBU of the FCS? Southern Illinois seniors Brown, Ceasar lead dogs for Salukis

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DBU of the FCS? Southern Illinois seniors Brown, Ceasar lead dogs for Salukison July 30, 2021 at 9:25 am Read More »

Horoscope for Friday, July 30, 2021Georgia Nicolson July 30, 2021 at 5:01 am

Moon Alert

Avoid shopping or making important decisions from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Chicago time. After that, the moon moves from Aries into Taurus.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

This is a high-energy day for you. For the first half of the day, the moon is in your sign dancing with Jupiter, which makes you feel happy and optimistic. Later, shopping or money-making ideas will appeal. You might spend money on entertainment.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

This is a positive day for you! In the morning, you will feel happy with your own company. (Pleased with yourself.) After the moon alert, the moon will be in your sign, which will make you emotionally energized. This is the perfect time to ask for what you want.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

This morning is a good time for pleasant conversations with friends and groups. However, later in the day, you will enjoy your own solitude because there’s something you want to do. You’re going to spend energy doing it — by yourself.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

You are high visibility this morning. This is a good thing because people admire you! (You might use this to your advantage.) Later in the day, warm bonds with a friend or a group will lift your spirits. These connections might even boost your earnings?

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

This morning travel plans appeal. You want to do something different that expands your experience of the world. This afternoon, people will notice you much more. Caution: Because you make such a strong impression, you might arouse opposition to you.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

This morning is a good time for discussions with banks or anything to do with loans and mortgages because others will benefit you. After the moon alert, your attention shifts and suddenly, you want adventure! You want to run away and join the circus.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

You might attract someone to you this morning who is enthusiastic and upbeat. Either way, your interactions with others will be positive and enjoyable. Later in the afternoon, financial discussions about shared property will benefit you. In fact, you will make sure of this.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Choose to work with others this morning because various group activities will benefit you. You will get more done by letting someone help or by helping someone else. After the Moon Alert, expect a lively discussion with a partner or close friend. Someone has something to say!

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

This is a happy morning full of fun opportunities. Perhaps a power breakfast? Meet someone for brunch? Activities with children or anything to do with sports will appeal. In the afternoon, after the moon alert, you’re ready to work hard and be productive.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

This morning you’re enthusiastic with big ideas about something to do with your home or your family. This could relate to a home expansion or even a family expansion? Later in the afternoon, take time off to play and enjoy yourself. The arts, sports and fun activities with kids will appeal.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

A general feeling of enthusiasm and a positive outlook on the world will embrace you this morning. It feels good. However, this afternoon, intense feelings at home will be lively and dynamic. This could describe a family conversation or some kind of event taking place.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

This morning is an excellent time for financial negotiations. (See moon alert) You might see how to boost your income or, perhaps, you will make a big expenditure? This afternoon, short trips, conversations and a busy pace will excite you. “The game, Mrs. Hudson, is on!”

If Your Birthday Is Today

Actress Lisa Kudrow (1963) shares your birthday. You are friendly, likable and entertaining. You are also impulsive and spontaneous, sometimes dramatically so. You will be youthful, warm-hearted and generous all your life. This year is all about you. You might do a makeover. Think of the impression you create. What courses or further education might you get? How can you be the best that you can be?

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Horoscope for Friday, July 30, 2021Georgia Nicolson July 30, 2021 at 5:01 am Read More »

Bulls play long game, grab hometown kid Ayo DosunmuJoe Cowleyon July 30, 2021 at 3:54 am

According to Arturas Karnisovas, there’s a solid foundation to build around within his own facility.

The Bulls’ executive vice president of basketball operations made that clear during the March trade deadline when he acquired Nikola Vucevic from the Magic, sacrificing their first-round draft capital from this year’s deep talent pool, then reminded the media of it in his end-of-season address.

“I think when you have a foundation of, let’s say, two All-Stars [in Vucevic and Zach LaVine] in one place, I think it’s easier to add additional things that we need,” Karnisovas said. “So we’re going to discuss the needs of the team, and we’ll attack it during free agency [on Aug. 2].”

One problem: The rest of the Central Division wasn’t waiting around for free agency to add star power.

At least potential star power.

While the Bulls used a second-round pick (38th overall) to select hometown kid, and Illini standout, Ayo Dosunmu that definitely appeased the fan base.

The combo guard and Morgan Park grad averaged 20.1 points, 6.3 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game last season, and was expected to be a versatile rotation option if he adds some strength.

A solid selection, but not the first-round pedigree that others in the division had.

Detroit, Cleveland and even Indiana took advantage of a 2021 NBA Draft class considered to be one of the most talented since the 2003 class of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh.

The Pistons made Oklahoma State guard Cade Cunningham the No. 1 overall selection Thursday.

In adding Cunningham, Detroit feels like it now has a generational point guard with a Luka Doncic-style ability to control the tempo of a game. At 6-8, Cunningham can score around the rim and from outside, but it’s his unselfish playmaking that stood out for scouts. He’s also a versatile defender, able to guard one through four comfortably.

The Rockets took explosive scorer Jalen Green with the second pick, setting the stage for Cleveland to add yet another solid piece to the post-LeBron rebuild. The Cavs took 7-footer Evan Mobley from USC. The Mobley comps to Bosh are there for a reason. He’s an inside-outside threat who excels in the shot-blocking department.

The Cavaliers added veteran Ricky Rubio in a predraft deal and are building a talented stable with Mobley, Isaac Okoro, Darius Garland, Collin Sexton and Jarrett Allen. As soon as they can shed themselves of the Kevin Love contract, it will be interesting to see if they can attract some veteran talent to jump aboard.

Then at No. 13, the Pacers added one of the top perimeter shooters in the draft, grabbing Oregon guard Chris Duarte. While Duarte likely won’t start like a Cunningham or Mobley, he is expected to give the Pacers scoring depth off the bench.

Indiana finished three games better than the Bulls, and that was despite all kinds of health issues surrounding Caris LeVert and Myles Turner.

As far as what could have been for the Bulls, that’s where it got interesting. The Magic took the No. 8 pick it received in return for Vucevic and added versatile forward Franz Wagner. With its own pick at No. 5, the Magic took point guard Jalen Suggs, who would have been the perfect fit in Chicago.

While the Bulls had to live in the what-could-have-beens, the Lakers captured the night, living in what is. Before a name was even muttered in the draft, news broke that the Lakers had acquired Russell Westbrook to join James and Anthony Davis in Hollywood.

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Bulls play long game, grab hometown kid Ayo DosunmuJoe Cowleyon July 30, 2021 at 3:54 am Read More »