The Saudi-funded LIV League Golf Invitational Series run by Greg Norman is having its inaugural tournament in London. Did the PGA jump the shark by suspending players like Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson, who have joined the league? Will they be allowed back? Should they be considered independent contractors? Will Tiger Woods leave the PGA for the huge paycheck? The USGA has said that the players who qualified for the US Open can still compete. What are the ethics when dealing with Saudi Arabia and the source of their money? It’s also been reported that half of the US tournaments will be played on Donald Trump-owned courses. How much of a role does, or should, politics play? There is also the question of how the sports world treats former athletes who did not have the opportunity to create some financial retirement plan to provide for their families through major league organizations before these huge paychecks were available. Are the golfers following the money? Should players try to make as much as possible to secure their futures?

The Philadelphia Phillies have fired Manager Joe Girardi amid the team’s recent struggles. While the Phillies acquired some heavy-hitting outfielders during the offseason, it’s questionable whether they are also great outfielders. And the defense and pitching in the bullpen? That isn’t down to the manager but is the responsibility of upper management. Did he deserve to get fired?

The Belmont Stakes, the final jewel in the Triple Crown, will be run on Saturday. The field promises to be full of amazing horses, with the much-anticipated reappearance of Kentucky Derby-winner Rich Strike after his prolonged rest. Creative Minister has been bred to go a mile-and-a-half, and his owners spent a lot of money to get him to the Preakness, where he finished third. Can either horse run the race under Secretariat’s legendary two minutes and 24 seconds?

Email Fred and Art with questions and comments at sportsfred@aol.com.