In Boston, Dan Shaughnessy writes Patriots owner Robert Kraft is suing the town of Foxborough, Mass., because “he thinks the town beat him out of some cash.” Shaughnessy: “Seriously? In the middle of this great World Cup vibe? Can it really be worth front-page headlines screaming that you are again at war with the town that’s the home of your cash-cow stadium?” (BOSTON GLOBE, 6/19).
BACK TO THE BASICS: THE ATHLETIC’s Rosenthal & Ghiroli wrote Baseball HOFer Cal Ripken Jr., now as a part-owner of the Orioles, is “contributing to an effort to revive the organization’s emphasis on fundamentals.” Sources said that Ripken is “taking a more active role in player development.” This is the first time Ripken has “taken such a hands-on approach within the organization.” Sources said that Orioles President of Baseball Operations Mike Elias “sought out the expertise” of both Ripken and former manager Mike Shildt on player development and “over time has leaned more heavily on Ripken’s baseball acumen” (THE ATHLETIC, 6/18).
