An unlikely name is MLB's hottest hitter, World Cup dramatics, has DGG decided between UT and OSU? | Chattanooga Times Free Press

The Chattanooga Times Free Press points to Kansas City’s Tyler Tolbert as MLB’s hottest hitter, highlighting unusual streaks and record-setting production as the sport moves toward the All-Star break. Tolbert, described as a “utility” player, went 16-for-12 in a stretch that culminated in matching the big-league record with base hits in 12 consecutive plate appearances. In a Royals’ wild 16–12 win over the Mets, his ninth-inning flyout represented the last ball requested by Cooperstown, according to ESPN Stats referenced by the paper. The piece also notes Tolbert’s Tuesday homer and four singles in his first five trips, and back-to-back five-hit games since Roberto Clemente. The same column contrasts other storylines, including Braves uncertainty, the Dodgers blowing a 3–1 lead, and World Cup drama and penalty-shootout misses.