Early morning Sports Update

“In in between the traces, it is football. I’m positive he would not anticipate anything distinct.”

The Pink Sox missing to the Rays 1- in the finale of the two teams’ a few-video game series on Thursday. Tampa Bay’s Kevin Kiermaier broke up a put together Boston no-strike bid in the eighth inning, and teammate Manuel Margot scored the winning operate an inning afterwards on a wild pitch.

Tonight, the Pink Sox host the Yankees at 7:10 p.m. to open a three-sport collection amongst the American League East rivals. Boston will honor retired 2nd baseman Dustin Pedroia in a pregame ceremony.

Dont’a Hightower’s get on experiencing Tom Brady: Patriots linebacker Dont’a Hightower opted out of the 2020 NFL season because of to the danger of COVID-19. In unique, the 31-12 months-outdated linebacker had an eye on the protection of his family, and specially his newborn son, Grayson Sprint.

In 2021, a now-vaccinated Hightower has returned to his NFL career, dismissing speculation that he may possibly retire from his participating in times.

In a latest expansive interview with The Boston Globe‘s Stan Grossfeld, Hightower and his spouse, Morgan, talked about a assortment of matters about their past yr absent from soccer.

“My major aim at that time was to consider treatment of my spouse and children, and I felt like I did the proper factor,” Hightower explained of his decision to decide out. “If I had to do it yet again, I’d surely do it the similar way.”

But as he seems ahead to the 2021 time and obtaining back on the subject, 1 noteworthy distinction from the previous time he performed is New England’s quarterback. Tom Brady is clearly absent, departing to engage in for the Buccaneers in 2020 and aiding Tampa Bay win the Super Bowl.

Just one of the extra anticipated game titles of the approaching season will be Brady’s return to Gillette Stadium to deal with his previous crew on Oct. 3.

Asked about going through Brady, Hightower explained he relishes the problem.

“It’s likely to be fantastic to see 12 yet again,” Hightower defined. “I’ve been going towards him in follow for so prolonged, I’m wanting ahead to playing towards him.”

But just to be obvious, Hightower added that he won’t be having it simple on the quickly-to-be 44-year-old quarterback.

“Nah, you just cannot do none of that stuff with him, person,” Hightower advised Grossfeld. “He’s hoping to toss touchdowns.”

“No, in concerning the strains, it’s soccer. I’m positive he wouldn’t be expecting something distinctive.”

Trivia: Involving playing for Alabama and the Patriots, how many championships has Dont’a Hightower received?

(Answer at the base.)

Hint: He played for Alabama from 2008-2011 just before becoming picked by the Patriots in the first round in 2012.

Extra from Boston.com:

Carles Gil was awarded MLS Player of the 7 days: For the second straight week, a Revolution player gained the MLS award. New England’s playmaker recorded a few assists in Wednesday’s 3-2 acquire in excess of the Red Bulls.