Discover timely sports news adapted for students in K12 classrooms. We offer multiple reading levels, reading comprehension questions and endless fun.
This article is part of the 'Ballpark Foods' series and focuses on how French fries are made at sporting events. It describes French fries as crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with a satisfying potato taste and salty finish. The article details the 10-step process of making fries, starting with selecting the right potatoes (usually Russet), washing and peeling them, cutting them into strips, soaking them to remove starch, drying them thoroughly, and then using a double-frying method for optimal crispness. The fries are first fried at a lower temperature, cooled, then fried again at a higher temperature before being seasoned and served with various dipping options. The article is written at a 6th grade reading level and includes information about the ingredients and cooking techniques that make ballpark French fries a fan favorite.
June 28, 2025
This article ranks and profiles MLB players #10-6 on the 2025 Top 100 list. At #10 is Tarik Skubal, the Tigers' ace who won the 2024 AL Cy Young Award and pitching Triple Crown. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. ranks #9 as the Blue Jays' power-hitting first baseman who combines average and power. At #8 is Francisco Lindor, the Mets' do-it-all shortstop who finished second in 2024 MVP voting. Yordan Alvarez ranks #7 as the Astros' fearsome slugger who hit for the cycle in 2024 and batted .308 with 35 home runs. Jose Ramirez rounds out the group at #6, nearly joining the 40-40 club with 39 homers and 41 steals for the Guardians in 2024. Each player profile discusses their skills, 2024 performance, and importance to their team.
June 27, 2025
This article traces the history of the Cleveland Guardians baseball team from its founding in 1901 through various name changes and eras. It describes the team's early years as the Blues, Bronchos, Naps, and then Indians from 1915-2021. The article highlights successful periods including World Series victories in 1920 and 1948, and the competitive teams of the 1990s that played in the newly built Jacobs Field (now Progressive Field). It explains the team's name change to the Guardians in 2021, inspired by the famous Art Deco statues on Cleveland's Hope Memorial Bridge. Throughout their history, the team has experienced championship victories, challenging rebuilding periods, and remained an important part of Cleveland's identity and culture.
This article explains how baseball caps are made as part of a series about baseball equipment manufacturing. It describes what baseball caps are and their purpose both on and off the field. The article details the manufacturing process from basic materials (fabric, cardboard/plastic, thread, etc.) through eight main steps: designing, cutting fabric, printing/embroidering logos, assembling the panels, adding the bill, attaching the sweatband, adding the closure system, and final touches. Written at a 6th grade level, it helps readers understand the journey of a baseball cap from raw materials to finished product.
June 26, 2025
In this article, we explore the projected top picks of the upcoming NBA draft, highlighting the unique talents and potential impacts of each player on their new teams. From generational prospects like Cooper Flagg for the Dallas Mavericks to versatile contributors such as Nique Clifford for the Oklahoma City Thunder, we assess how each selection could reshape their respective franchises. As teams look to build for the future, this draft class promises a mix of immediate contributors and high-upside projects that could define the next era of the NBA.
June 25, 2025
This article ranks MLB players #15-11 for 2025, featuring detailed profiles of each player. At #15, Mookie Betts continues to excel with the Dodgers as an eight-time All-Star and three-time World Series champion who plays multiple positions. Zack Wheeler ranks #14, established as the Phillies' ace with his powerful five-pitch arsenal and 2024 All-MLB First Team selection. At #13, Bryce Harper remains a dominant force for the Phillies, now playing first base after moving from the outfield, with two MVP awards and four Silver Sluggers. Paul Skenes ranks #12 after a sensational rookie year with the Pirates, posting a 1.96 ERA and winning NL Rookie of the Year. Rounding out the group at #11 is Kyle Tucker, recently traded to the Cubs, bringing his all-around skills as a three-time All-Star, Gold Glove winner, and 2023 AL RBI leader.
This article presents a detailed breakdown of five MLB players ranked #20-#16 for the 2025 season. Freddie Freeman (#20) is highlighted for his World Series MVP performance and consistent excellence with the Dodgers. Ronald Acuña Jr. (#19) is recognized for his historic 40-70 season in 2023 despite facing another ACL injury in 2024. Elly De La Cruz (#18) is praised for his explosive combination of size, speed and power as the Reds' rising star. Jurickson Profar (#17) is noted for his career renaissance that earned him an All-Star selection and a new contract with the Braves. Ketel Marte (#16) is featured for his power-hitting 2024 campaign that included career highs in home runs and a Silver Slugger Award, cementing his status as the Diamondbacks' cornerstone player.
June 24, 2025
This article covers the history of the Minnesota Twins baseball team. It traces their origins as the Washington Senators and their move to Minnesota in 1961. The article highlights their two World Series championships in 1987 and 1991, and the move from the Metrodome to Target Field in 2010. It mentions famous players like Harmon Killebrew, Rod Carew, Kirby Puckett, and Joe Mauer. The article also touches on recent team history and the team's importance to Minnesota today. Written at a 6th grade reading level, the article gives a broad overview of the team's 60+ year history in Minnesota.
This article explains how baseball stadiums generate revenue for teams through multiple income streams. It covers ticket sales, concessions, parking fees, luxury seating options, advertising, sponsorships, and special events. The article provides concrete examples of how these revenue sources work, such as how much money teams can make from a single game's ticket sales or concessions. It emphasizes that while generating revenue is important, teams should maintain fair business practices to ensure baseball remains accessible to all fans. The piece is part of a larger series exploring the business side of baseball and is written to be understood by middle school students.
As the New York Knicks analyze a season that ended in disappointment, they are poised for a transformative off-season filled with potential trades. With their roster's strengths and weaknesses laid bare by the Indiana Pacers, the Knicks must make tough decisions on which players to keep and which to trade—specifically focusing on Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart. Explore seven intriguing trade options the Knicks should consider as they aim to elevate their squad and make a serious championship run.
June 23, 2025
This article explains how baseball bobbleheads are made as part of a series about baseball equipment manufacturing. It introduces what bobbleheads are—collectible figures with oversized heads that nod on springs—and details their creation process. The manufacturing starts with artist designs and clay sculpting before molds are created. Parts are cast in resin or plastic, assembled with a spring mechanism for the bobbling action, and then carefully painted with team colors and player details. After quality checks, the finished bobbleheads are packaged for distribution to fans. The article highlights the craftsmanship involved in creating these popular baseball souvenirs while maintaining an educational tone appropriate for middle school students.
This article profiles Mike Shildt, the current manager of the San Diego Padres. Born in 1968 in Charlotte, North Carolina, Shildt took an unconventional path to MLB management, never having played professional baseball. He began as a scout and minor league coach with the St. Louis Cardinals organization, winning three consecutive minor league championships from 2010-2012. Shildt became the Cardinals' manager in 2018 and won NL Manager of the Year in 2019, leading the team to the NLCS. Known for emphasizing strong defense and baserunning, he guided the Cardinals to a franchise-record 17-game winning streak in 2021. After parting ways with St. Louis, Shildt joined the Padres organization in 2022 and was named manager in 2023. In his first season with San Diego, he led the team to a 93-69 record and a playoff appearance, earning a contract extension through 2027. With a .570 career winning percentage, Shildt has established himself as one of baseball's most successful managers.
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