Lefthander Caleb Ferguson and Reds finalize $4.5 million, 1year contract December 19, 2025 at 4:45 AM 0 FILE Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Caleb Ferguson throws against the San Diego Padres during the sixth inning of a baseball game Aug. 26, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File) () CINCINNATI (AP) — Lefthander Caleb Ferguson and the Cincinnati Reds finalized a $4.5 million, oneyear contract on Thursday. The 29yearold was 54 with a 3.58 ERA in a careerhigh 70 games last season for Pittsburgh and Seattle, which acquired him on July 30 for minor league righthander Jeter Martinez.

- - Left-hander Caleb Ferguson and Reds finalize $4.5 million, 1-year contract

December 19, 2025 at 4:45 AM

FILE - Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Caleb Ferguson throws against the San Diego Padres during the sixth inning of a baseball game Aug. 26, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File) ()

CINCINNATI (AP) — Left-hander Caleb Ferguson and the Cincinnati Reds finalized a $4.5 million, one-year contract on Thursday.

The 29-year-old was 5-4 with a 3.58 ERA in a career-high 70 games last season for Pittsburgh and Seattle, which acquired him on July 30 for minor league right-hander Jeter Martinez. His strikeouts per nine innings dropped from 11.1 to 7.0.

Ferguson is 24-17 with a 3.66 ERA and six saves over seven seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers (2018-23), New York Yankees (2024), Houston (2024), the Pirates and Mariners.

He had Tommy John surgery in 2014 and again in September 2020.

Ferguson did not allow a hit in his first 10 postseason appearances.

He had a $3 million, one-year contract this season.

___

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Left-hander Caleb Ferguson and Reds finalize $4.5 million, 1-year contract

Lefthander Caleb Ferguson and Reds finalize $4.5 million, 1year contract December 19, 2025 at 4:45 AM 0 FILE Seattle Mari...

ExNASCAR driver Greg Biffle among 7 dead in plane crash Field Level MediaDecember 19, 2025 at 4:34 AM 0 Mar 20, 2022; Hampton, Georgia, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Greg Biffle during the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. RebilasImagn Images (Mark J. RebilasImagn Images) Retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle was killed in a plane crash along with his wife, two children and three others at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina on Thursday morning, NASCAR confirmed.

- - Ex-NASCAR driver Greg Biffle among 7 dead in plane crash

Field Level MediaDecember 19, 2025 at 4:34 AM

Mar 20, 2022; Hampton, Georgia, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Greg Biffle during the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images (Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)

Retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle was killed in a plane crash along with his wife, two children and three others at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina on Thursday morning, NASCAR confirmed.

The plane, owned by Biffle, crashed and exploded into flames while attempting to land. NASCAR said the victims were Biffle, his wife Cristina Grossu Biffle, their 5-year-old son Ryder and his 14-year-old daughter Emma from a previous marriage, as well as Craig Wadsworth, Dennis Dutton and his son Jack Dutton.

The Biffle, Grossu, Dutton and Lunders families confirmed the fatalities in a joint statement on Thursday afternoon.

"We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones," the statement read. "This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words. Greg and Cristina were devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives were centered around their young son Ryder and Greg's daughter Emma (mother -- Nicole Lunders). Emma was a wonderful human being with a kind soul who was loved by many people. Ryder was an active, curious and infinitely joyful child.

"Dennis Dutton and his son Jack were deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them. Craig Wadsworth was beloved by many in the NASCAR community and will be missed by those who knew him.

"Each of them meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives," the statement continued.

"We ask for privacy, compassion and understanding as we grieve and begin to process this unimaginable loss. We are grateful for the kindness and support that has been extended to our families during this incredibly difficult time. At this moment, our focus is on honoring their lives and supporting one another."

The Statesville Regional Airport said the crash occurred at 10:15 a.m. local time, adding officials from the Federal Aviation Administration were en route to the crash site. The National Transportation Safety Board will be in charge of the investigation.

The plane, a Cessna C550, had just taken off from the airport but the pilot attempted to turn the aircraft around and land it.

Biffle, who would have turned 56 next week, won 19 Cup Series races over 14-plus seasons. He is a nominee for induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

His final race on the circuit was the 2022 Geico 500 at Talladega. He was named one of NASCAR's 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023.

"Greg was more than a champion driver, he was a beloved member of the NASCAR community, a fierce competitor, and a friend to so many," NASCAR said in a statement. "His passion for racing, his integrity, and his commitment to fans and fellow competitors alike made a lasting impact on the sport.

"On the track, Greg's talent and tenacity earned him championships in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, as well as numerous wins and accolades in the NASCAR Cup Series. Beyond his racing career, he gave of himself for the betterment of our community. Most notably, Greg spent countless hours of his time helping the citizens of North Carolina during the disasters that followed Hurricane Helene. His tireless work saved lives.

"Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Greg's entire family, friends, and all who were touched by his life."

Biffle, a native of Vancouver, Wash., also owns a helicopter and used it as part of the rescue effort to help people in Western North Carolina stranded by Hurricane Helene in September 2024.

North Carolina Congressman Richard Hudson said on social media that he was devastated by Biffles' deaths.

"They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others," Hudson said. "Greg was a great NASCAR champion who thrilled millions of fans. But he was an extraordinary person as well, and will be remembered for his service to others as much as for his fearlessness on the track.

"The Biffles flew hundreds of rescue missions in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene," Hudson added. "The last time I spoke with Cristina, just a couple of weeks ago, she reached out to ask how she could help with relief efforts in Jamaica. That's who the Biffles were.

"Our prayers are with their family, friends, and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss."

Former driver Clint Bowyer shared his shock over the tragedy.

"Absolutely crushed about the loss of Greg Biffle and his beautiful family," Bowyer said on social media. "An unbelievable talent behind the controls of literally anything. Checked all the boxes ... Great guy, helped people in need, and most importantly was a great family man. Devastated for everyone!"

Statesville is located about 40 miles north of Charlotte.

--Field Level Media

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Ex-NASCAR driver Greg Biffle among 7 dead in plane crash

ExNASCAR driver Greg Biffle among 7 dead in plane crash Field Level MediaDecember 19, 2025 at 4:34 AM 0 Mar 20, 2022; H...

New Photo - The 11 best Christmas movies to watch on Amazon Prime Video

From &34;It's a Wonderful Life&34; to &34;Oh. What. Fun.&34; The 11 best Christmas movies to watch on Amazon Prime Video From &34;It's a Wonderful Life&34; to &34;Oh. What. Fun.&34; By Marcus Jones, :maxbytes(150000):stripicc()/ImagefromiOS92000e15858700722802e1e7a9c1d314f44b8330a22473654b9.jpg) Marcus Jones is a former digital news writer at . He left EW in 2022. EW's editorial guidelines James Mercadante, Kevin Jacobsen, and Allison DeGrushe :maxbytes(150000):stripicc()/allisondegrusheEWbiophotoe5f8e89253c84b7085a43c502a3051a4.

From "It's a Wonderful Life" to "Oh. What. Fun."

The 11 best Christmas movies to watch on Amazon Prime Video**

From "It's a Wonderful Life" to "Oh. What. Fun."

By Marcus Jones,

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Marcus Jones is a former digital news writer at **. He left EW in 2022.

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Kevin Jacobsen,

and Allison DeGrushe

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December 18, 2025 12:00 p.m. ET

Jimmy Stewart in 'It's a Wonderful Life'; Jim Carrey in 'Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas'; Michelle Pfeiffer in 'Oh. What. Fun.'

Jimmy Stewart in 'It's a Wonderful Life'; Jim Carrey in 'Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas'; Michelle Pfeiffer in 'Oh. What. Fun.'. Credit:

Everett; Ron Batzdorff/Universal; Alisha Wetherill/Prime

Sometimes, getting into the holiday spirit is as easy as firing up the TV. If Amazon Prime is your streamer of choice, there are several festive favorites at your fingertips, from timeless classics to laugh-out-loud comedies and even some holiday-themed horror.

You can keep it traditional with time-tested heart-swellers like *It's a Wonderful Life* and *Miracle on 34th Street*, or take a shot on something like *Oh. What. Fun.*, a new comedy starring Michelle Pfeiffer and Felicity Jones.

So unwrap a candy cane, cue up some Bing Crosby, and read on for *'s* roundup of the 11 best Christmas movies streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

The Bishop's Wife (1947)

David Niven and Loretta Young in 'The Bishop's Wife'

David Niven and Loretta Young in 'The Bishop's Wife'. Everett Collection

While it doesn't have the iconic soundtrack of its 1996 remake, this classic film makes perfect use of its charming star Cary Grant, who plays a literal angel sent down from heaven to help a bishop (David Niven) fix his life and his marriage. The only problem is that the titular wife (Loretta Young) may be more interested in moving on with the angel than with her mortal spouse.

Where to watch *The Bishop's Wife*: Amazon Prime Video

**Director: **Henry Koster

**Cast: **Cary Grant, Loretta Young, David Niven

The Family Stone (2005)

Dermot Mulroney and Sarah Jessica Parker in 'The Family Stone'

Dermot Mulroney and Sarah Jessica Parker in 'The Family Stone'.

20thCentFox/ Everett

When most think of Sarah Jessica Parker, they likely picture her as the fashion-forward, (arguably) progressive Carrie Bradshaw from *Sex and the City.* However, in *The Family Stone*, she trades her Manolo Blahniks for sensible shoes as the high-achieving businesswoman Meredith Morton. When Meredith's fiancé (Dermot Mulroney) invites her to his eccentric family's Christmas gathering in New England, her traditionalist nature struggles to mesh with their laid-back, freethinking lifestyle. Despite the many loud arguments and emotional outbursts, it still emits some of the coziest vibes you could wish for.

Where to watch *The Family Stone*: Amazon Prime Video

**Director: **Thomas Bezucha

**Cast: **Claire Danes, Diane Keaton, Rachel McAdams, Dermot Mulroney, Craig T. Nelson, Sarah Jessica Parker, Luke Wilson

It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

(L to R) Larry Simms, Jimmy Hawkins, Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed, and Karolyn Grimes in 'It's a Wonderful Life'

(L to R) Larry Simms, Jimmy Hawkins, Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed, and Karolyn Grimes in 'It's a Wonderful Life'.

Anytime is a good time to watch what many consider one of the quintessential classic films, Christmas or otherwise. The Frank Capra-directed tearjerker tells the story of a man (Jimmy Stewart) ready to end his life — before a higher power intervenes to show him the devastating impact his loss would have on those who love him. The movie will also have you thinking differently about any time you hear jingle bells.

Where to watch *It's a Wonderful Life*: Amazon Prime Video

**Director:** Frank Capra

**Cast:** Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell, Henry Travers, Beulah Bondi

Love Actually (2003)

Andrew Lincoln and Keira Knightley in 'Love Actually'

Andrew Lincoln and Keira Knightley in 'Love Actually'.

Universal/Everett

If you're in need of a good cry this holiday season, *Love Actually* is waiting for you at your doorstep, cue cards in hand. This classic ensemble rom-com masterfully strings together a gamut of love stories — from the fairy-tale-esque to the utterly tear-jerking — all during the cheery buildup to Christmas. With a stacked A-list cast and charm to spare, it's a start-to-finish delight sure to melt even the iciest of hearts.

Where to watch *Love Actually*: Amazon Prime Video

**Director:** Richard Curtis

**Cast:** Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Laura Linney, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Keira Knightley, Martine McCutcheon, Bill Nighy, Rowan Atkinson

One Special Night (1999)

James Garner and Julie Andrews in 'One Special Night'

James Garner and Julie Andrews in 'One Special Night'. Everett Collection

A lesser-known project in Dame Julie Andrews' oeuvre, this TV movie still packs on the charm with her opposite James Garner* *as two strangers who take refuge in a cabin during bad winter weather and fall in love.

Where to watch *One Special Night*: Amazon Prime Video

**Director:** Roger Young

**Cast:** Julie Andrews, James Garner, Patricia Charbonneau

The 16 best classic Christmas movies to watch this year

John Payne as Fred Gailey, Maureen O'Hara as Doris Walker, Natalie Wood as Susan Walker, and Edmund Gwenn as Kris Kringle in 'Miracle on 34th Street'; Vera-Allen as Judy Haynes, Danny Kaye as Phil Davis, Rosemary Clooney as Berry Haynes, and Bing Crosby as Bob Wallace in 'White Christmas'; The cast, led by Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey (center, seated) of 'It's a Wonderful Life'

15 underrated Christmas movies that deserve a spot on your holiday watchlist

'The Christmas Toy'; 'Holiday Heart'; 'Arthur Christmas'

White Christmas (1954)

(L to R) Rosemary Clooney, Danny Kaye, Bing Crosby, Vera-Ellen, and children (front) in 'White Christmas'

(L to R) Rosemary Clooney, Danny Kaye, Bing Crosby, Vera-Ellen, and children (front) in 'White Christmas'.

Paramount/Getty

The first film shot in Paramount's then-cutting-edge VistaVision, *White Christmas* has rightfully earned its candy-cane stripes as one of the best Christmas movies ever, thanks to its glitzy visuals and a cast full of triple threats. The story follows a male song-and-dance duo (Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye) as they link up with two singing sisters (Rosemary Clooney, Vera-Ellen) to stage a snowy Christmas spectacular to keep a struggling Vermont inn from collapsing.

Where to watch *White Christmas*: Amazon Prime Video

**Director: **Michael Curtiz

**Cast:** Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, Vera-Ellen, Dean Jagger

Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Christine Baranski, Jim Carrey, and Jeffrey Tambor in 'Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas'

Christine Baranski, Jim Carrey, and Jeffrey Tambor in 'Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas'. Ron Batzdorff/Universal

Step into a holly-strewn Whoville with Ron Howard's live-action take on *Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas*, in which Jim Carrey goes all out as the grumpy, green misfit. The actor's over-the-top performance, aided by elaborate prosthetics and some well-staged stunts, earned him a Golden Globe nomination.

Where to watch *Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas*: Amazon Prime Video

Director: Ron Howard

Cast: Jim Carrey, Taylor Momsen, Christine Baranski, Jeffrey Tambor, Molly Shannon, Bill Irwin, Clint Howard

Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

Natalie Wood and Edmund Gwenn in 'Miracle on 34th Street'

Natalie Wood and Edmund Gwenn in 'Miracle on 34th Street'.

20thCentFox/Courtesy Everett Collection

As EW put it once upon a time, "there's no better movie for putting you in a holiday mindset" than 1947's *Miracle on 34th Street. *As directed by George Seaton, the story centers on a Macy's Santa Claus who claims to be the real Kris Kringle. His insistence lands him in all sorts of trouble, but he nevertheless manages to inspire young, Santa-skeptical Susan (Natalie Wood).

Where to watch *Miracle on 34th Street*: Amazon Prime Video

Director: George Seaton

Cast: Maureen O'Hara, Edmund Gwenn, John Payne, Gene Lockhart, Natalie Wood, William Frawley

Black Christmas (1974)

Margot Kidder in 'Black Christmas'

Margot Kidder in 'Black Christmas'.

Courtesy Everett

Bob Clark's *Black Christmas* helped pave the way for John Carpenter's *Halloween* and spawned multiple remakes, none of which hold a fir-scented candle to the OG slasher. Olivia Hussey and Margot Kidder lead an ensemble cast as sorority sisters whose holiday bliss is disrupted by creepy, threatening phone calls. The question of where the calls are coming from proves to be an integral one — and the source of this cult classic's lingering horrors. The ending is one for the ages.

Where to watch *Black Christmas*: Amazon Prime Video

Director: Bob Clark

Cast: Olivia Hussey, Margot Kidder, John Saxon, Keir Dullea, Douglas McGrath, Andrea Martin

Oh. What. Fun. (2025)

The cast of 'Oh. What. Fun.'

The cast of 'Oh. What. Fun.'.

Alisha Wetherill/Prime

Directed by Michael Showalter (*Wet Hot American Summer*), *Oh. What. Fun*. stars Golden Globe winner Michelle Pfeiffer as Claire, a Texas housewife who busts her butt each year to ensure Christmas is perfect for her husband and three kids — only to be completely taken for granted. This time, Claire's had it. After she takes off, her family comes to realize just how much work they've been offloading on her.

Where to watch *Oh. What. Fun.*: Amazon Prime Video

Director: Michael Showalter

Cast: Michelle Pfeiffer, Denis Leary, Felicity Jones, Dominic Sessa, Chloë Grace Moretz, Jason Schwartzman, Eva Longoria, Danielle Brooks

Something from Tiffany's (2022)

Kendrick Sampson and Zoey Deutch in 'Something from Tiffany's'

Kendrick Sampson and Zoey Deutch in 'Something from Tiffany's'. Erin Simkin/Prime Video

Zoey Deutch and Kendrick Sampson are the perfect pairing in *Something from Tiffany*'s, a Christmas rom-com that's equal parts sweet and totally predictable (in the very best way). She's a baker, he's a writer, and sparks fly when their gifts from Tiffany's get swapped. It's not exactly groundbreaking, but who cares? Cozy is cozy.

Where to watch *Something from Tiffany's*: Amazon Prime Video

Director: Daryl Wein

Cast: Zoey Deutch, Kendrick Sampson, Shay Mitchell, Ray Nicholson, Leah Sava Jeffries

***Get your daily dose of entertainment news, celebrity updates, and what to watch with our EW Dispatch newsletter*.****

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Source: "EW Romance"

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Published: December 19, 2025 at 12:38AM on Source: RED MAG

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3:00 PM

The 11 best Christmas movies to watch on Amazon Prime Video

From &34;It's a Wonderful Life&34; to &34;Oh. What. Fun.&34; The 11 best Christmas movies to watch on ...

New Photo - Tom Cruise shares teaser for Digger, his first role after Mission Impossible: 'A comedy of catast...

The comedy marks Cruise's first collaboration with &34;The Revenant&34; and &34;Birdman&34; director Alejandro G. Iñárritu. Tom Cruise shares teaser for Digger, his first role after Mission Impossible: 'A comedy of catastrophic proportions' The comedy marks Cruise's first collaboration with &34;The Revenant&34; and &34;Birdman&34; director Alejandro G. Iñárritu. By Mekishana Pierre :maxbytes(150000):stripicc()/MekishanaPierreauthorphotoed08906b8105488ca1e991de8ac00dec.jpg) Mekishana Pierre Mekishana Pierre is a news writer at . She has been working at EW since 2025.

The comedy marks Cruise's first collaboration with "The Revenant" and "Birdman" director Alejandro G. Iñárritu.

Tom Cruise shares teaser for Digger, his first role after Mission Impossible: 'A comedy of catastrophic proportions'

The comedy marks Cruise's first collaboration with "The Revenant" and "Birdman" director Alejandro G. Iñárritu.

By Mekishana Pierre

Mekishana Pierre author photo

Mekishana Pierre

Mekishana Pierre is a news writer at **. She has been working at EW since 2025. Her work has previously appeared on *Entertainment Tonight* and Popsugar.

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December 18, 2025 1:49 p.m. ET

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Tom Cruise shares teaser for Digger, his first role after Mission Impossible: 'A comedy of catast...

The comedy marks Cruise 's first collaboration with &34;The Revenant&34; and &34;Birdman&34; director Al...

Rasmus Højlund shines as Napoli beats AC Milan 20 to reach Italian Super Cup final December 19, 2025 at 2:51 AM 0 1 / 5APTOPIX Saudi Arabia Italian Super Cup SoccerNapoli's Rasmus Hojlund scores his side's second goal during an Italian Super Cup soccer match between Napoli and AC Milan in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri) RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — Rasmus Højlund starred for Napoli as the defending Serie A champion beat AC Milan 20 to reach the final of the Italian Super Cup on Thursday.

- - Rasmus Højlund shines as Napoli beats AC Milan 2-0 to reach Italian Super Cup final

December 19, 2025 at 2:51 AM

1 / 5APTOPIX Saudi Arabia Italian Super Cup SoccerNapoli's Rasmus Hojlund scores his side's second goal during an Italian Super Cup soccer match between Napoli and AC Milan in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — Rasmus Højlund starred for Napoli as the defending Serie A champion beat AC Milan 2-0 to reach the final of the Italian Super Cup on Thursday.

The former Manchester United player set up one goal and scored the other to send Napoli into Monday's final. Napoli will play the winner of Friday's other semifinal between Italian Cup winner Bologna and Serie A runner-up Inter Milan.

The Italian Super Cup, played in Saudi Arabia, involves the winners and runners-up of last season's Serie A and Italian Cup.

Milan lost to Bologna in the Italian Cup final.

The Rossoneri, who won the Italian Super Cup last season, were wearing special jerseys with their names in Arabic lettering on the back.

Both Milan and Napoli were dealing with numerous injury problems but Napoli welcomed back Romelu Lukaku to the squad for the first time since he tore a muscle in August.

Lukaku, who was most likely included in case of penalties, was on the bench and celebrated both goals.

Napoli took the lead shortly before halftime. Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan got a fingertip on Højlund's low cross but only succeeded in pushing it even more into the path of David Neres, who tapped in at the back post.

Højlund got on the scoresheet himself in the 64th minute with an angled shot following another smart through ball from Leonardo Spinazzola, who had also passed to Højlund for the opener.

___

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Source: Sports

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2:00 PM

Rasmus Højlund shines as Napoli beats AC Milan 2-0 to reach Italian Super Cup final

Rasmus Højlund shines as Napoli beats AC Milan 20 to reach Italian Super Cup final December 19, 2025 at 2:51 AM 0 1 ...

Timberwolves formalize a reunion with Kevin Garnett, with a plan to finally retire his No. 21 jersey DAVE CAMPBELLDecember 19, 2025 at 2:48 AM 0 FILE Minnesota Timberwolves' Kevin Garnett, right, drives against Atlanta Hawks' Paul Millsap in the first quarter of an NBA basketball game in Minneapolis, Nov. 25, 2015. (AP Photo/Jim Mone, File) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Kevin Garnett will finally have his No. 21 formally retired by the Minnesota Timberwolves.

- - Timberwolves formalize a reunion with Kevin Garnett, with a plan to finally retire his No. 21 jersey

DAVE CAMPBELLDecember 19, 2025 at 2:48 AM

FILE - Minnesota Timberwolves' Kevin Garnett, right, drives against Atlanta Hawks' Paul Millsap in the first quarter of an NBA basketball game in Minneapolis, Nov. 25, 2015. (AP Photo/Jim Mone, File)

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Kevin Garnett will finally have his No. 21 formally retired by the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Timberwolves announced on Thursday they've hired the Hall of Fame member and franchise icon as a team ambassador, with a plan to honor Garnett in a jersey-raising ceremony at Target Center on a future date.

The fifth pick in the 1995 draft, who played the first 12 of his 21 seasons in the NBA for Minnesota before returning in 2015 for a farewell year, has essentially been estranged from the organization because of a rift with former owner Glen Taylor. Once Taylor's sale of the Timberwolves and WNBA's Minnesota Lynx to e-commerce mogul Marc Lore and former baseball star Alex Rodriguez closed earlier this year, the path to a reunion was cleared.

"I'm thrilled to be back home," Garnett said in a statement distributed by the Timberwolves. "Minnesota is where it all began, where I was young, hungry and learning how to compete at the highest level. I'm excited to be back in the Twin Cities at a time when Marc and Alex are setting a bold new vision for this franchise. Their leadership has brought fresh energy to the organization, and I'm excited to help build what's next for the Timberwolves, our fans and this community."

The native of South Carolina, who finished high school in Chicago and trailblazed his way directly to the NBA draft, remains the all-time Timberwolves leader in points, rebounds, steals, blocks, games and minutes. He won the NBA MVP award in 2004, helped the team make the playoffs eight straight times (1997-2004) for the longest streak in franchise history and earned 10 of his 15 career All-Star selections with Minnesota.

Garnett had his first falling out with the Timberwolves after they traded him to Boston in 2007. Taylor later told a local newspaper columnist he felt "KG tanked it" by sitting out the final five games of a 50-loss season in 2006-07 with a leg injury.

Garnett won an NBA championship in 2008 with the Celtics, who retired his No. 5 jersey there in 2022 to further frustrate the Timberwolves fans pining for his return to a relationship with his original team. After six seasons with Boston, Garnett was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in 2013. In the middle of his second season there, he was traded back to the Timberwolves and re-signed for the following season before retiring.

Garnett's longtime coach and confidant with the Timberwolves, Flip Saunders, had returned to the organization by then and orchestrated the trade to bring him back, helping bridge the frayed relationship between Garnett and Taylor. But Saunders died of cancer in 2015, and the promise Garnett believed he had from Taylor to buy a stake in the team did not pan out.

"I'll always have a special place for the city of Minneapolis and the state of Minnesota in my heart. But I don't do business with snakes," Garnett said in an interview with The Athletic in 2020 about his relationship at the time with the Timberwolves.

Garnett's role with both the Timberwolves and Lynx will be "visible and active," according to the announcement. He will attend certain home games, support community initiatives and help shape the fan experience and storytelling on team content channels.

"Bringing Kevin home has been a priority since we acquired the teams. He is the greatest player in Timberwolves history, and his impact on our franchise and community is immeasurable," Lore and Rodriguez said in a joint statement. "This is more than a reunion — it's a statement about honoring our past while pursuing excellence and building one of the most admired sports organizations in the world. We couldn't be prouder to welcome him home."

___

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Timberwolves formalize a reunion with Kevin Garnett, with a plan to finally retire his No. 21 jersey

Timberwolves formalize a reunion with Kevin Garnett, with a plan to finally retire his No. 21 jersey DAVE CAMPBELLDe...

6 trades we want to see: Drawing up deals for Tarik Skubal, Edward Cabrera, Jarren Duran, Ketel Marte and more Jake MintzJordan Shusterman and Russell DorseyDecember 19, 2025 at 2:51 AM 0 The hot stove is heating up — with 21 of our Top 50 free agents having landed new deals already this winter — but let's not forget the other key component of offseason transactions: trades. We've seen a few teams make deals already, including Sonny Gray to the Red Sox and the Mets' and Rangers' swap of Marcus Semien for Brandon Nimmo, but chances are the trade market is just heating up.

- - 6 trades we want to see: Drawing up deals for Tarik Skubal, Edward Cabrera, Jarren Duran, Ketel Marte and more

Jake MintzJordan Shusterman and Russell DorseyDecember 19, 2025 at 2:51 AM

The hot stove is heating up — with 21 of our Top 50 free agents having landed new deals already this winter — but let's not forget the other key component of offseason transactions: trades.

We've seen a few teams make deals already, including Sonny Gray to the Red Sox and the Mets' and Rangers' swap of Marcus Semien for Brandon Nimmo, but chances are the trade market is just heating up. So with that in mind, let's lay out some deals we'd like to see happen this winter.

Mets acquire OF Luis Robert Jr. from White Sox for RHP Jack Wenninger and OF Nick Morabito

Perhaps Chicago's decision to pick up Robert's $20 million option for 2026 was made with the intention of dealing him at next year's deadline, but with the dearth of enticing right-handed-hitting outfielders available in free agency, there's no sense in waiting any longer to cash in on Robert as a trade chip. Although he finished the 2025 season on the injured list due to a hamstring strain, Robert was quietly hitting quite well before that (.297/.350/.469 over his final 35 games) and offers enough tantalizing upside to return real prospect capital. The Sox should find the best deal available this winter and finally pull the trigger.

Enter the Mets, in the midst of a total roster makeover, with the requisite farm system depth to meet Chicago's asking price and the financial flexibility to take on Robert's contract. The financial element shouldn't be as important here; for the White Sox to secure the best prospect return, they are best off covering as much of Robert's salary as possible (even if the Mets can afford it). But regardless of the money, New York is an ideal suitor as a team with a center-field need and a stated goal of improving defensively. While durability and recent volatility at the plate make Robert risky in some respects, he brings the same terrific defense as the incumbent Tyrone Taylor, but with dramatically more offensive upside. It's also not necessarily a long-term commitment; Robert has another $20 million club option for 2027 that could be exercised if he flourishes or declined if he flops. In that case, the Mets could move forward with some of their internal center-field candidates who project to be ready as every-day options in 2027 (Carson Benge, Jett Williams).

As for the return, the Mets have enough depth at the upper levels to put together a worthwhile package without parting with any of their top names. Wenninger doesn't carry the same cache as the three right-handers we saw debut for New York last season (Nolan McLean, Jonah Tong, Brandon Sproat), but he was terrific in a full season in Double-A, experiencing a notable velocity uptick and displaying a fantastic splitter as his go-to out pitch. He could break into a big-league rotation at some point in 2026, though it's hard to see that happening in Queens. Morabito, whom the Mets added to their 40-man roster last month after a stellar showing in the Arizona Fall League, is a sensible inclusion in a Robert trade as a candidate to be Chicago's center fielder of the future; there's a severe lack of depth at the position behind Robert. Morabito will likely need some time in Triple-A first, but he's a plus-plus runner who can be an impact defender and baserunner, and he has a decent offensive approach enabling solid on-base numbers despite minimal power. — Shusterman

Orioles acquire RHP Edward Cabrera and RHP Anthony Bender from Marlins for 1B Coby Mayo, RHP Michael Forret, LHP Joseph Dzierwa, RHP Levi Wells and INF Aron Estrada

At the 2024 trade deadline, Miami and Baltimore linked up on a trade borne out of each club's positional surpluses, as the Marlins dealt from their depth of arms, sending lefty Trevor Rogers to the Orioles, in exchange for two hitters, Kyle Stowers and Connor Norby, who were unlikely to find regular at-bats in Baltimore anytime soon. It was a deal that seemed to lean heavily in Miami's favor in the months afterward, but it now looks like a big win for both sides, with Rogers being downright dominant when on the hill for Baltimore in 2025 and Stowers blossoming into an All-Star for the Fish.

Eighteen months later, these two clubs could line up for a similar trade, with Baltimore still in search of pitching upgrades and the Marlins reportedly willing to deal from their rotation to bolster their young talent base as they look to launch out of rebuild mode. Whether or not Baltimore is able to add an impact starter in free agency, Cabrera is an ideal target as a high-upside right-hander who is under contract through 2028. Durability and command have been challenges at times, but Cabrera is comfortably above-average at coaxing both whiffs and groundballs, an enviable combination for a starting pitcher. And with Baltimore still in need of bullpen help — and the reliever free-agent market thinning out quickly — Bender, a solid seventh-inning option who is under contract for two more seasons, would be a nice bonus to this deal, even if he heightens the prospect cost.

The Marlins would rightly want a lot in return for these two pitchers, and the Orioles are one of the few teams in position to meet such a lofty ask. The addition of Alonso has rendered some of Baltimore's upper-level hitters expendable, with Mayo the obvious candidate to be flipped in a trade. (Heston Kjerstad is another name to monitor, having seemingly been passed on the depth chart by Dylan Beavers, but Kjerstad's 2025 was so poor that it's difficult to gauge his trade value at present.) Mayo just turned 24 and finished strong with a .941 OPS in September; he could bring some much-needed thump to Miami's lineup at a position of weakness at first base.

Among minor-league arms with at least 70 innings pitched in 2025, only Jonah Tong posted a lower ERA than Forret's mark of 1.58 in 74 innings of work. The right-hander turns just 22 in April and has made only three starts in Double-A, but if he can prove he can handle a starter's workload over a full season, he could be a top-100-type talent. Dzierwa was Baltimore's second-round pick earlier this year and has plus command of a deep arsenal headlined by an excellent changeup. Wells throws very hard and has reached Triple-A developing as a starter, but a transition to a bullpen role could have him big-league-ready in short order. Estrada is a compact switch-hitter who has stolen 30-plus bases each of the past two seasons while playing mostly second base and left field. — Shusterman

Will Tarik Skubal be traded this winter? What about Edward Cabrera and Ketel Marte? (Bruno Rouby/Yahoo Sports)Phillies acquire LHP Tarik Skubal from Tigers for RHP Andrew Painter, INF Aidan Miller, INF Aroon Escobar and LHP Mavis Graves

When the powers that be here at Yahoo asked me to concoct a trade for one Mr. Tarik Skubal, the first thing that popped into my mind was desperation. Not in regard to my editor — trade theorizing within reason is harmless and fun! Don't be a hater! — but in regard to which team might have the guts to swing a deal for the best pitcher on Earth.

Stay with me here.

Skubal is a free agent after the 2026 season. His agent, Scott Boras, rarely shepherds his clients to extensions. A team that acquires Skubal this winter would probably have him for just one season. Given how much teams value their top prospects — and Skubal would require quite a haul — those are big stakes.

So who's under that kind of pressure? Who is living in the here and now? Which team has to win in 2026?

The Padres come to mind. As do the Yankees and Red Sox. But I think the Philadelphia Phillies are the team most incentivized to do something completely irresponsible, to mortgage the future for one shot at glory. Remember, the clock is most certainly ticking at Citizens Bank Park, no matter how much blood Bryce Harper cycles out of his body. The Harper/Schwarber/Turner/Wheeler/Nola core is all 32 or older. Cy Young vote recipient Jesús Luzardo hits free agency next winter. So do infielders Alec Bohm and Edmundo Sosa.

A rotation led by Skubal, Luzardo and Cristopher Sanchez would curbstomp people. Whenever Zack Wheeler returns from his thoracic outlet issues, he can join the party, too. President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski has a reputation of pushing the chips in, and who better to go all-in on than Skubal?

In this scenario, in return the Tigers get two close-to-the-bigs top prospects in Painter and Miller, a fun bat-first infielder in Escobar and a tall lefty in Graves from whom they can maybe coax more velocity.

The Phillies probably wouldn't do something this aggressive. The Tigers probably won't trade Skubal anyway. But this is the type of win-now, swing-for-the-fences move that contenders should be making more often. — Mintz

Marlins acquire OF Jarren Duran and DH Masataka Yoshida from Red Sox for RHP Edward Cabrera

What follows is a list of truths about the Boston Red Sox.

The Red Sox have too many outfielders. In order to ensure an optimal alignment — glovesmith Ceddanne Rafaela in center and not second base — the Red Sox need to trade either Wilyer Abreu or Jarren Duran because, well, hot-shot slugger Roman Anthony isn't going anywhere.

The Red Sox would love to offload as much of DH Masataka Yoshida's contract ($18.6 million in 2026 and 2027) as possible. Unfortunately, he has turned into an offensive zero and a roster clogger. His contract is relevant because the Sox seem skittish about journeying deep into the first tier of the competitive balance tax, even though they should be operating like a financial bully. To bring back Alex Bregman, Boston is going to have to make a big commitment. Jettisoning Yoshida might make that math more comfortable.

The Red Sox could use one more dependable starter. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow already acquired Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo to slot in behind über-ace Garrett Crochet this winter, but one can never have too much rotation depth. Adding Cabrera would then allow Breslow to use any number of the preexisting, non-Payton Tolle depth options (Connelly Early, Patrick Sandoval, Kutter Crawford, David Sandlin, Kyle Harrison) to acquire a hitter to replace Yoshida.

Why would the Marlins do this? Well, they probably won't. This type of move doesn't fit president of baseball operations Peter Bendix's MO. If he parts with Cabrera, Bendix would probably want a player with more control than the three years left on Duran's contract. But there's certainly room on Miami's payroll to absorb a bad contract such as Yoshida's. The Marlins have run embarrassingly low payrolls the past few years and should start taking advantage of that space to acquire good players. If they don't want to keep Yoshida, they can just cut him, but use the coin for something useful, for Pete's sake.

That's what Duran is. Sure, moving forward he's probably not going to play like the MVP candidate he was in 2024, but the muscled-up outfielder is a productive player on the good side of 30 years old. The Fish have a chance to fight for a wild-card spot in 2026, and pairing Duran with Kyle Stowers and Jakob Marsee would give them one of baseball's most underrated outfields. — Mintz

Red Sox acquire 2B Ketel Marte from Diamondbacks for LHP Payton Tolle, INF Kristian Campbell and SS Franklin Arias

The Red Sox have had their hand in a little bit of everything this offseason, and after striking out on big boppers Kyle Schwarber and Pete Alonso, they can get their guy with Marte. Marte isn't your average second baseman. He's one of the best players in baseball and just a year removed from a third-place NL MVP finish in 2024. The acquisition of Marte would give the Red Sox the elite bat they need in the middle of their lineup, without requiring the team to move many foundational pieces.

As for the Diamondbacks, they're not going to trade an MVP-caliber player with six more seasons of club control for nothing. To make this trade, the Red Sox will have to give up a haul, moving top prospects Payton Tolle and Franklin Arías and former top prospect Kristian Campbell, who still has major upside. While Arias is about a year away from the big leagues, Tolle could slot right into Arizona's rotation, and Campbell can take Marte's vacant spot at second base and stay there after moving around in Boston.

This trade would help the Red Sox significantly, while Arizona would acquire multiple players who help their major-league roster both now and in the future. All that while still allowing the Diamondbacks the flexibility to make other moves to supplement their offense this offseason. — Dorsey

Mets acquire RHP Nick Pivetta from Padres for RHP Jonah Tong and INF/OF Jett Williams

It seems preposterous that after acquiring Nick Pivetta just a year ago, the Padres would be looking to move him. But with an ownership group in flux and a hefty payroll that has to come down, while trading the right-hander probably isn't San Diego's first choice, it might be what they have to do.

What makes a Pivetta trade more challenging than other potential deals is that the right-hander has an opt-out at the end of the 2026 season. There's no guarantee that he opts into the two years, $32 million on his contract for 2027 and 2028, which means acquiring him is something of a gamble. That makes the perfect trade partner — one with a big need for starting pitching and one that can afford the risk if Pivetta opts out — the Mets.

In the return, Tong has generated interest all around baseball, and after a solid first showing in the big leagues, he's the type of young arm the Padres have been looking for. Meanwhile, Williams has always been a talented player with lots of tools, but he's somewhat blocked in New York's system. A move to San Diego would allow him the chance to play in the big leagues.

This is a solid trade that makes sense for both sides, and if Pivetta pitches well in Queens, he can assure himself another strong payday next offseason. — Dorsey

Original Article on Source

Source: "AOL Sports"

Source: Sports

Published: December 18, 2025 at 11:27PM on Source: RED MAG

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