Reuters Sports News Summary
Following is a summary of current sports news briefs.
In Augusta, all roads lead to somebody's home
Augusta National, with its climate-defying azalea blooms and meticulous greens, offers plenty of attraction for visitors eager to catch a glimpse of the world's greatest golfers at The Masters. For local residents whose daily commute can often triple in length during the tournament, it offers plenty of reason to leave.
Duke freshman Reddish declares for draft
Duke freshman Cam Reddish became the team's second young star to declare for the 2019 NBA Draft on Thursday. "This season was epic, and I am so thankful to have had Duke as a part of the foundation that prepared me to play at the next level. Never forget - I am a Blue Devil for life. Proud to announce that I will be entering the 2019 NBA Draft," the 6-foot-8 forward posted on Instagram.
Hammer says Shields fight will change women's boxing
The unifying world middleweight fight between two-time American Olympic champion Claressa Shields and Christina Hammer will change the face of women's boxing, the German said in preparation of the biggest bout of her career. The 28-year-old Hammer, a multiple world champion over two weight divisions, is undefeated in her ten-year pro career with 24 victories from 24 fights, but knows the bout against Shields is as big as they get.
Former Patriots WR Hogan signs with Panthers
The Carolina Panthers have signed wide receiver Chris Hogan to a one-year deal, the team announced on Friday. Hogan spent the past three seasons with the New England Patriots, winning two titles. He finished last season with 35 catches for 532 yards and three touchdowns.
Big hitters poised to make splash at rainy Masters
Steady rain provided a boost for the big-hitters, including Brooks Koepka who shared the overnight lead with Bryson DeChambeau, as the second round of the Masters got underway on Friday. Soft conditions at Augusta National benefited the boomers in Thursday's opening round as Koepka, winner of three of the last six majors he has contested, world number two Dustin Johnson and Spaniard John Rahm all muscled their way onto the leaderboard.
Blue Jays' Guerrero Jr. excels in Triple-A debut
Toronto Blue Jays prospect Vladimir Guerrero Jr. made his debut with Triple-A Buffalo on Thursday and showed why many think he is already ready to join the big league club. The third baseman, who is the son of Hall of Fame member Vladimir Guerrero, had a walk, a double and a three-run home run, finishing the night 2-for-4 at the plate with four RBIs.
U.S. FAA probes drone sighting over baseball game at Boston's Fenway Park
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration said on Friday it was investigating reports that a drone flew over Boston's Fenway Park during a baseball game, and the drone's manufacturer said the user apparently overrode a system designed to prevent flights over prohibited areas such as sporting events. The Boston Red Sox said on Friday that a drone flew over the playing field during the late innings of Thursday's evening game against the Toronto Blue Jays. FAA regulations prohibit flying drones around stadiums during major sporting events.
Former Packers great Gregg dies at 85
Green Bay Packers great Forrest Gregg died on Friday at the age of 85, the Pro Football Hall of Fame announced. Gregg, a favorite of legendary Packers coach Vince Lombardi, was a standout offensive tackle during Green Bay's dynasty in the 1960s. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1977.
Kentucky freshman Herro announces intention to enter NBA draft
Kentucky freshman guard Tyler Herro on Wednesday announced his intention to declare for the NBA draft via a social media post but left his options open for a return to the school. Herro said he will work with an agent, within new eligibility rules, in order to get feedback from teams on where he might land in the draft. If his draft stock is not as high as he had hoped, he said he will return to the Kentucky program.
Tiger's agent weighs in on future televised specials
The agent for Tiger Woods said talks are ongoing for future televised appearances and hinted that the first is likely to be in Japan this fall, according to ESPN. "We are in pretty deep discussions about doing that and Japan would be ideal to do the first one,'' Steinberg said, per the report. "It might not be a traditional head-to-head match. It might be something more unique."