LIV Golf may soon be gaining a companion, as Saudi Arabia is now reported to be considering starting a league similar to the NBA. Could additional sports leagues sprout up, possibly hurting existing ones in the process, due to a lack of other sources of money to meet budgetary demands? Will it come down to agreements being made for the most advantageous deals so that athletes can provide for their families? Is it further evidence of sports washing or another instance where the deepest pockets usually win? Where do ethics come into the picture, spurring more questions in the wake of the turnaround by the PGA? And with the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics, will the IOC take the high road with the athletes from Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Iran by allowing them to compete without representing their flags, sanctioning the governments but not the athletes in light of the turmoil and loss of human lives occurring in those countries?

The new ownership group of the NFL’s Washington Commanders, led by Josh Harris and Magic Johnson, shows how the culture and leadership of an organization can make a difference with the athletes and fans, with the training camp boasting several thousand spectators during practices in contrast to a couple of dozen last year. The Dodgers are also an example of how that kind of positive culture and leadership permeates down from the top through to the farm system, helping to improve the team from the ground up. Will this type of business plan inspire the front offices of struggling teams and provide a template for them to follow?

The Dodgers have traded several players to the White Sox, including Trayce Thompson, to acquire Joe Kelly and Lance Lynn. Was it the right move, as Kelly had been traded away from the Dodgers several years ago? Have they seen an improvement in his record since then? Is the Dodger pitching staff in a slump and needing some beefing up?

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