Penn State, with balanced scoring, pulls away from PennFor the second straight Major League Baseball offseason, a norm-shattering contract has been the talk of the winter , with Juan Soto agreeing with the New York Mets on a $765 million, 15-year deal that's the richest in baseball history. It comes almost exactly one year after the Los Angeles Dodgers forked out a princely sum of $700 million on a 10-year, heavily deferred deal for two-way Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani. They are believed to be the two richest contracts in pro sports history. The way it's going, a contract approaching $1 billion doesn't seem out of the question. But several factors are working against it — at least in the near future. There's reason to believe the megadeals for Ohtani and Soto are unicorns in the baseball world. Both players are uniquely talented, surely, but both also had unusual circumstances propelling their value into the stratosphere. Ohtani is the greatest two-way player in baseball history, capable of improving any team on both sides of the ball. He's also the rare baseball player who has true international appeal . His every move ( like his unexpected marriage announcement ) is followed closely in his native Japan, adding another 125 million potential fans who buy merchandise, watch him play and help fill the Dodgers' coffers. Then there's Soto — a four-time All-Star and on-base machine who won a World Series with the Washington Nationals in 2019. The X-factor for him is he became a free agent at the prime age of 26, which is extremely hard to do under current MLB rules. Players have to be in the big leagues for six years before testing free agency. The precocious Soto debuted at 19 with the Nats, making him part of a rare group of players who reached the highest level of professional baseball as a teenager. That accelerated his free agency timeline. It's rare for players to debut that young, and rarer still for them to develop into stars and test the open market the first chance they get. Two recent examples are Manny Machado and Bryce Harper, who both reached free agency in 2019. Machado signed a free-agent record $300 million contract with San Diego, and Harper overtook him days later with a $330 million contract to join the Phillies. Most players debut in the big leagues from ages 22 to 26, which means free agency comes in their late 20s or early 30s. A typical example is Yankees slugger Aaron Judge, who is one of this generation's great players but didn't hit the market until he was 30. Judge played three seasons of college baseball for Fresno State before getting drafted by the Yankees in 2013 at age 21 — already two years older than Soto was when he made his MLB debut. It took a few years for the budding superstar to reach the majors, and he was 25 when he had his breakout season in 2018, smashing 52 homers to earn AL Rookie of the Year honors. By the time he reached free agency after the 2022 season, he had already passed age 30. It's a major factor that led to him signing a $360 million, nine-year deal with the Yankees, which seems downright reasonable these days after the Ohtani and Soto deals. Two major trends are colliding that will make it harder for guys like Soto to hit free agency in their mid 20s. First, MLB teams have been more likely in recent years to take college players early in the draft, betting on more experienced talents. Just 10 high school players were drafted among the top 30 picks in the 2024 draft . Second, teams are more eager to lock up young, premium talent on long-term deals very early in their careers, well before they hit free agency. Sometimes before they even reach the majors. Since Soto, just two players have debuted in MLB before their 20th birthday — Elvis Luciano and Junior Caminero. Luciano hasn't been back to the majors since his 2019 cup of coffee. Caminero is now 21 and has only played in 50 big league games. Among those that debuted at 20: Fernando Tatis Jr. signed a $340 million, 14-year deal with San Diego in 2021, years before reaching the open market. Milwaukee's Jackson Chourio got an $82 million, eight-year deal before even reaching the big leagues. Young stars Corbin Carroll ($111 million, eight years with Arizona), Bobby Witt Jr. ($288 million, 11 years with Kansas City) and Julio Rodriguez ($209.3 million, 12 years with Seattle) also got massive guarantees early in their 20s to forgo an early free agency. The exception and wild card: Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will be a 26-year-old free agent next offseason. Guerrero hasn't been as consistent in his young career as Soto, but a standout 2025 season could position him to threaten Soto's deal. More likely is that the player to pass Soto isn't in the majors yet — and might not even be in pro baseball. When 25-year-old Alex Rodriguez signed his record $252 million, 10-year deal with Texas in 2001, it took over a decade for another player to match that total, when Albert Pujols got $240 million over 10 years from the Angels in 2012. For many players, passing up life-changing money in their early or mid 20s is too enticing, even if it means that they might not maximize their value on the free agent market later in their careers. Soto was determined to test the market. He famously turned down a $440 million, 15-year offer to stay with the Washington Nationals in 2022, betting that he could make even more as a free agent. Not many players would turn down that kind of cash. Then again, that's what makes Soto so unique. And it's also why his $765 million deal could be the industry standard for some time. AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlbIn recent years, robots have metamorphosed from awkward metal contraptions into sophisticated machines with artificial intelligence capabilities. While technological advancements are remarkable, humans still find amusement in placing these robots in quirky and uncomfortable scenarios. Here are some of the most peculiar and intriguing ways we’ve utilized robots this year. Automated Poop Patrol Caleb Olson, a pet owner from Minnesota, has devised a unique solution to the age-old problem of cleaning up after dogs. Olson invented the “Poopcopter,” an autonomous robot designed to hunt down and collect dog waste. This flying marvel employs computer vision to identify droppings and uses a specially designed scoop to dispose of them, potentially raising the sanitary standards in backyards everywhere. Robot Butts Out Cigarette Litter Efforts to combat cigarette litter have led to the creation of the VERO, a four-legged vacuum robot by the Italian Institute of Technology. Designed to suck up discarded cigarette butts, each foot of the VERO is outfitted with a nozzle capable of removing this prevalent litter. If widely deployed, VERO could clean up public spaces efficiently. Empathy Experiments with Robots Marieke Wieringa, a researcher from Radboud University, conducted experiments exploring human empathy towards robots. Participants were more likely to hesitate in causing discomfort to robots that emitted distress sounds, noting a change in perception when they seemed to express emotions. Painting the Future with AI A humanoid robot named Ai-Da, armed with artistic algorithms, has ventured into painting, creating works such as a portrait dubbed “AI God.” The paintings have gained attention, fetching high bids in auctions, which reflects growing interest in the intersection of art and technology. These unusual ventures showcase the ever-expanding capabilities of robots, prompting societal reflection on their roles and our interactions with machines. The Unexpected Future of Robotics: Innovations and Insights Evolving Robotics: Exploring Key Innovations and Trends Robotics has progressed significantly, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and engineering. As robots become more integrated into everyday tasks, intriguing new capabilities and potential societal impacts emerge. Emerging Trends in Robotics 1. Innovations in Waste Management Robotics The development of the “Poopcopter” and the VERO highlights an innovative approach to tackling litter and waste management. These robots use computer vision and autonomous functionality, embodying the trend of robotics solving environmental challenges. The Poopcopter’s ability to autonomously identify and collect waste represents a new horizon in maintaining public hygiene. 2. Emotional Interactions with Robots Marieke Wieringa’s work on empathy towards robots suggests that human-robot interaction goes beyond mechanical functions. This experiment reveals how machines could evoke emotional responses and ethical considerations, presenting a new dimension in robotics – the ability to simulate human-like emotions, potentially influencing future social robots. 3. Artistic Creativity in AI-Driven Robots The humanoid artist Ai-Da exemplifies the intersection of robotics and creativity, ushering in a new era where robots contribute artistically. This could redefine art markets and challenge perceptions of creativity, as AI continues to expand its boundaries. Pros and Cons of Increased Robotic Integration # Pros: – Efficiency: Robots like VERO and Poopcopter streamline processes, increasing cleanliness and reducing labor. – Innovation: New applications, such as Ai-Da’s creative outputs, showcase the potential of robotics to enter traditionally human domains. # Cons: – Ethical Concerns: As with empathy experiments, ethical implications arise when robots appear to express emotions. – Cultural Resistance: Artistic robots challenge traditional ideas, which might face resistance from those valuing human artistry. Predictions for Robotics 1. Enhanced Public Services Robots capable of addressing public litter could be integrated into urban infrastructure, potentially transforming city hygiene dynamics. 2. Expanded Roles in Healthcare and Assistance Given their ability to evoke emotional responses, robots could support elderly or disabled individuals, improving quality of life through companionship or assistance. 3. Evolution in Creative Industries AI-driven artistic robots might become collaborators in creative industries, prompting a reevaluation of intellectual property and creativity ownership. Market Insights The robotics market is witnessing significant growth, driven by demand across sectors such as waste management, healthcare, and creative industries. As technology evolves, investment in robotic innovations is anticipated to rise, with focus areas likely including AI integration, emotional interaction capabilities, and public service support. For More Innovations Discover more about cutting-edge robotic developments and future implications by visiting the MIT Technology Review . Stay informed on the dynamic changes shaping the robotics landscape and understand their potential impacts on society.online game with friends
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Israeli warplanes pound Syria as troops reportedly advance deeper into the country (copy)Prince George will host the 2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games in seven months, marking the third time the Games have been held here. Events such as basketball, golf, rhythmic gymnastics, powerlifting, soccer, softball, swimming, 10-pin bowling, and track and field will take place from July 10-13. Prince George will see 1,200 competitors and their trainers, families, friends and supporters coming to the city. With such a large crowd expected there is a lot of preparation and planning in the months ahead. A group of dedicated and experienced volunteers and sponsors has stepped up to form both the SOBC organizing committee and the SOBC games sponsorship program. “It's going to take a lot of people to make the 2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games possible,” said public relations director Shirley Bond at a press conference Tuesday. “It also is going to take a lot of support from sponsors and donors. But all of us know what an amazing community that we live in. And the support is building already here, starting with local volunteers who have stepped up in key planning roles.” So far some of this support comes from sponsors including, Canadian Tire Prince George, (which hosted the press conference), the City of Prince George, the Government of British Columbia, the Canucks for Kids Fund, Canfor, Tourism Prince George and Four Rivers Co-op. The members of the volunteer committee seemed excited and passionate about the games and the work that needs to be done, and many are looking forward to putting Prince George on the map, said Bond “Prince George is known to be an exceptionally good host and we've hosted some of the largest events in Canada,” she said. “This is an opportunity to showcase individuals who have intellectual disabilities and the abilities that they have. It is about showing what an inclusive community we have and it is Incredibly inspiring. I've been involved in the Games before and it is a very special experience to support these athletes to cheer them on and to showcase the abilities that they have.” However, there is still a great need for volunteers and additional sponsors as Bond notes that there is still a lot of work to do in the next seven months. “We're gonna need more than 1,0009 volunteers to participate ... There are opportunities to be involved with meal prep and all of the other things that it takes to operate these games,” she said. “I know that it'll be an experience people will never forget. It's an opportunity to be inspired to get involved. One thing I know for sure is that Prince George delivers when we host these kinds of events. There will be no exception here, but I want to encourage people to think about spending some time working with us as we host the BC Special Olympics.” To volunteer, visit www.sobcgames.ca. The Special Olympics give athletes the opportunity to be ambitious, driven and to excel at something that they are passionate about, as illustrated by Prince George local and nationally ranked Special Olympics athlete and silver medalist Adam Spokes. “I aim not only to be a better person, but to make others better too,” he said. “To inspire and encourage those who may not have the encouragement they got when they were younger, but now we're saying they could achieve something. It may not be anything great, but they can achieve something. It boils down to something simple. The wish is for people to not have to stare at the abyss, not see the darkness, and be able to have something to look forward to. You see it all the time with people with disabilities, who stay home, who don’t come out, But with the Special Olympics, we want to show them a little bit of lightness. We inspire them to say, ‘I can achieve something.’” Spokes is also a part of the athletic input council and is looking forward to the competition. “It's something different,” he said. “You practice every day and every week and in these kinds of games, you prove it. You prove that all that hard work is worth it and all those sacrifices you made, all the hard work you did, all the sore muscles, in the end, it was worth it because you're on your own big stage.” Top performers competing in Prince George will see themselves on an even bigger stage, as they will qualify for spots on Team BC for the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in Medicine Hat. This in turn is the qualifier for the 2026 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Santiago, Chile. The Opening Ceremony will take place at the CN Centre on Thursday, July 10 following the arrival of the teams and the Law Enforcement Torch Run. Competitions happen July 11 and 12. The Games Event Hub will be located at the Canada Games Outdoor Plaza, 545 Quebec St., providing a central space for participants and fans. The competitions will be held at several venues, with 10-pin bowling at Strike Zone Bowling and Mini Golf Centre, athletics at Masich Place Stadium, and basketball at Duchess Park Secondary School. Bocce and soccer events will take place at Rotary Field, while golfers will tee off at Aspen Grove Golf Course. The Prince George Civic Centre will also host powerlifting and rhythmic gymnastics events. Softball will be played at Freeman Park and swimming events will take place at the Prince George Aquatic Centre. The closing ceremony, which is for athletes only and not open to the public, is on July 12. July 13 sees the athletes departing, followed by a volunteer appreciation fair at Canada Games Plaza. For more information visit www.sobcgames.caThe US tech giant said it now supported 550,000 jobs in the UK through direct employment, its supply chain and the economy around its App Store – with app developers having earned nearly £9 billion since it launched in 2008. Apple said its engineering teams were carrying out critical work on the firm’s biggest services, including key technology within Apple Intelligence, the iPhone maker’s suite of generative AI-powered tools which are expected to launch in the UK for the first time this week. Elsewhere, the firm said its growing TV empire, spearheaded by its Apple TV+ streaming service and production arm, had also helped boost its investment in the UK with Apple TV+ production in this country tripling in the last two years, the company said. Chief executive Tim Cook said: “We’ve been serving customers in the UK for more than 40 years, and we’re proud of our deep connection with communities across this country. “We’re thrilled to be growing our Apple teams here, and to keep supporting the extraordinary innovators, creators, and entrepreneurs who are pushing the boundaries of technology in so many ways.” The Chancellor Rachel Reeves said companies such as Apple were “intrinsic” to the UK’s prosperity by boosting jobs. “This government is laser focused on creating the right conditions for growth to help put more money in people’s pockets. “That’s what underpins the Plan for Change and is what has driven £63 billion worth of inward investment in the UK through our first international investment summit. “Companies like Apple are intrinsic to the success of our nation’s prosperity – helping deliver jobs, innovative technology, and boost infrastructure.”
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