Le Journal

As the Atlanta Braves have maintained a low profile in the offseason market despite the array of available free agents, they now face a significant challenge leading up to Opening Day, amid the uncertainty surrounding Justin Verlander. Amid a relatively quiet offseason for the Atlanta Braves, the team has suddenly found itself in the spotlight due to two significant developments: speculation around Justin Verlander’s interest in joining the team and a crucial setback just ahead of Opening Day. The Braves announced via their official social media channels that they will be without a key player for the season opener. “INF Ha-Seong Kim sustained a hand injury while in Korea and underwent surgery to repair a torn tendon in his right middle finger,” the team revealed. Following the surgery, Kim is expected to be sidelined for 4-5 months, leaving the Braves without the services of the Korean infielder as they gear up for the regular season. This unforeseen challenge forces the team to explore alternatives to fill the gap in their lineup. Originally acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays halfway through last season, Ha-Seong Kim was poised to make a significant contribution to the Braves in 2026. He was considered a key offseason addition following last year’s campaign. Ha-Seong Kim #9 of the Atlanta Braves celebrates with teammates. Kim’s impact in his debut season with the Braves Despite an overall disappointing end to the Braves’ season, Kim emerged as a valuable asset during his brief tenure on the field. His performance convinced Atlanta of his potential, prompting the team to secure him for the 2026 season with a one-year contract. Games Played: 24Batting Average: .253Home Runs: 3RBIs: 12OPS: .684Fielding %: .982 Braves’ projected lineup without Kim With Kim unexpectedly sidelined just as the regular season looms, the Braves are now tasked with reorganizing their roster to establish their Opening Day lineup in his absence. The projected lineup is as follows: Ronald Acuña Jr. RFOzzie Albies 2BAustin Riley 3BMatt Olson 1BMichael Harris II CFJurickson Profar LFDrake Baldwin DHSean Murphy CMauricio Dubon SS

Houston Texans TE Dalton Schultz had to leave the field during the first quarter of the game against the Patriots. With just a few minutes left in the first quarter of the game between the New England Patriots and the Houston Texans, Dalton Schultz had to leave the field and head straight to the locker room. Accompanied by part of the medical staff, the TE was seen visibly in pain in one of his legs. The talented player had to leave the game with a calf injury, which will likely be evaluated further for more details. Behind him on the Texans’ depth chart are Cade Stover and Harrison Bryant. According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, who reported via his X account, the Texans have ruled Dalton Schultz, and he won’t return to the field at Gillette Stadium. Undoubtedly, this is a major blow to Stroud’s offense. The tight end has been one of the quarterback’s most targeted offensive weapons throughout this season, even becoming the team leader in receptions. Now, the Texans will have to rely on other options. Dalton Schultz has left the game.He is seen here walking into the locker room, Calf injury.Interesting 👀 pic.twitter.com/ryxWKlHqyK— SM Highlights (@SMHighlights1) January 18, 2026 Schultz’s numbers this season Dalton Schultz provided a reliable safety valve for the Houston Texans throughout the 2025 campaign, putting up highly consistent numbers across 17 games. The veteran tight end recorded 82 receptions for 777 receiving yards, finding the end zone 3 times as a key red-zone target. Maintaining a steady 9.5 average yards per catch, Schultz solidified his role as a high-volume chain-mover for the offense, frequently coming through in high-leverage situations to keep drives alive. Texans suffer another blow The Houston Texans’ offensive depth is being pushed to the brink as Dalton Schultz became the latest casualty during the Divisional Round. With star receiver Nico Collins already sidelined due to a concussion, Schultz’s exit with a calf injury leaves C.J. Stroud without his two most reliable chain-movers.

Following Alex Bregman’s move to the Chicago Cubs, the Boston Red Sox are receiving good news regarding further roster moves. Alex Bregman’s move to the Chicago Cubs has inevitably been a tough blow for the Boston Red Sox. Still, this team has more than enough talent to continue pursuing its goal of becoming contenders in the upcoming MLB season. Even more so after news emerged that there is a strong likelihood no major moves will be made within the team, including involving one of their All-Stars. Marino Pepen made this clear through his X account. “Industry sources indicate that with the #RedSox rotation complete, it is unlikely they will trade Jarren Duran,” the insider revealed. “Duran has the highest bWAR (15.6) of any #RedSox player over the last three years, making it essential to keep him on the team for his offense and determination.” The outfielder arrived in Fenway in 2021, and it was in 2024 that he was selected to participate in the All-Star Game. Alex Cora can rest easy knowing that, in some way, he has more than enough talent to face what’s ahead. Jarren Duran #16 of the Boston Red Sox. One of the last season’s cornerstones Alongside Alex Bregman, Jarren Duran emerged as a cornerstone of the Boston Red Sox‘s lineup during the 2025 season. The dynamic outfielder showcased a blend of power and consistency, finishing the year with a .256 batting average, 16 home runs, and 84 runs batted in. His ability to drive the ball into the gaps resulted in a solid .774 OPS, while his speed remained a major factor as he swiped 24 bases and led the team with 13 triples. While his offensive numbers saw a slight regression compared to his breakout 2024 MVP-caliber campaign, Duran’s elite defense in left field and his reliable presence at the top of the order solidified his status as one of the most valuable all-around players in the American League.

Raphinha, widely regarded as one of Barcelona's top performers, will be absent for the upcoming match against Real Sociedad in the 2025-26 LaLiga season. Barcelona are undoubtedly experiencing a stellar moment in their current season. Sitting at the top of the LaLiga standings, they are also well-positioned in the UEFA Champions League. Their recent triumph in the Spanish Super Cup over long-time rivals Real Madrid further cements their dominance. Key players have been performing remarkably well, with Raphinha being a standout contributor. However, Raphinha will not feature in Barcelona’s lineup against Real Sociedad on LaLiga Matchday 20 in the 2025-26 season due to a thigh injury. This update comes from Barcelona’s official website. The team aims to prioritize his recovery to ensure his availability for upcoming challenges in January. Without the Brazilian sensation, much of the offensive responsibility will fall on the shoulders of Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres. Their contributions are crucial for Barcelona to secure a victory and maintain their lead in LaLiga. While it’s unfortunate for Raphinha to be sidelined, Real Sociedad view his absence as a strategic advantage, given the threat he poses on the field. They hope to capitalize on this during what promises to be an intense matchup. Raphinha of FC Barcelona. Raphinha’s replacement Barcelona welcomes back Frenkie De Jong from his suspension following a red card in the Spanish Super Cup against Real Madrid. Head coach Hansi Flick has chosen Fermin Lopez to fill in Raphinha’s shoes against Real Sociedad. More than just securing points, Barcelona aim to build on their current momentum and protect their lead in the LaLiga standings. The team has consistently delivered outstanding performances this season. Barcelona lineup vs Real Sociedad Without Raphinha, Fermin Lopez will join Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal in the attacking line. Robert Lewandowski will start on the bench, waiting for an opportunity to play in the second half. Goalkeeper: Joan GarciaDefenders: Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia, Alejandro BaldeMidfielders: Pedri, Frenkie De Jong, Dani OlmoForward: Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Fermin Lopez