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College Baseball Conferences- Top 25- Picks and Predictions

Tom Knuppel Other

Baseball Conferences

There are nearly 30 Division 1 baseball conference in 2025, with almost 300 teams involved to attempt to make it to the College World Series in Omaha at the completion of the regular season. In 2024, the Tennessee Volunteers, coached by Tony Vitello were the champions of the College World Series. Texas A&M finished second. At the 2025 preseason, most experts are picking one of three teams to win it all and they are LSU, Texas A&M or Georgia.

 

American East Conference

Bryant opens Feb 14 at Davidson College

Binghamton Feb 14 at Texas State University

Maine opens Feb 14 vs Louisiana Tech

NJIT  opens Feb 14 at High Point

UAlbany opens Feb 21 at Lamar

UMBC  opens Feb 21 at Stetson

UMass Lowell  opens Feb 14 vs Mercyhurst

 

American Athletic Conference

East Carolina
UTSA
Tulane
Wichita State
UAB
Florida Atlantic 12-15 28-29
Charlotte 12-15 24-34
Rice 11-16 23-36
South Florida 11-16 26-29
Memphis

 

Atlantic 10 Conference

St Louis

VCU

Dayton

Richmond

Geo Washington

UMASS

St Joseph’s

Rhode Island

Davidson

Fordham

St Bonaventure

George Mason

 

Atlantic Coast Conference

Clemson

NC State

Florida State

Louisville

Wake Forest

Notre Dame

Boston College

North Carolina

Virginia

Duke

Georgia Tech

Virginia Tech

Miami

Pitt

 

Atlantic Sun Conference

Austin Peay

Bellarmine

Central Arkansas

EKU

Lipscomb

North Alabama

FGCU

Jacksonville

North Florida

Queens

Stetson

West Georgia

Big 12

Arizona

Arizona State

Baylor

BYU

Cincinnati

Colorado

Kansas

Kansas State

Houston

Oklahoma State

TCU

Texas Tech

West Virginia

UCF

 

Big East

UConn

St Johns

Georgetowne

Xavier

Villanova

Creighton

Seton Hall

Butler

 

Big South Conference

Charleston Southern

Gardner-Web

High Point

Longwood

Presbyterian

Radford

 

Big Ten

Illinois

Iowa

Indiana

Maryland

Michigan

Michigan State

Minnesota

Nebraska

Northwestern

Ohio State

Oregon

Penn state

Purdue

Rutgers

UCLA

USC

Washington

 

Big West

Cal Poly

Cal State Bakersfield

Cal State Fullerton

Hawaii

Long Beach State

UC Davis

UC Irvine

UC Riverside

UC San Diego

UC Santa Barbara

 

Coastal Athletic Association

Charleston

UNCW

Northeastern

Delaware

William and Mary

Hofstra

Campbell

Stony Brook

Monmouth

Elon

NC A&T

Towson

 

Conference USA

Dallas Baptist

FIU

Jacksonville State

Kennesaw State

Liberty

LaTech

MTSU

NM State

Sam Houston

WKU

 

Horizon League

Milwaukee

Northern Kentucky

Oakland

Purdue Fort Wayne

Wright State

Youngstown State

 

Ivy League

Columbia

Princeton

Cornell

Penn

Yale

Harvard

Dartmouth

Brown

 

Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference

Canisus

Fairfield

Iona

Manhattan

Marist

Merrimcak

Mount Mt. Mary’s

Niagara

Quinnipac

Rider

Sacred Heart

St. Peter’s

Siena

 

Mid-American Conference

Akron

Ball State

Bowling Green

Buffalo

Central Michigan

Eastern Michigan

Ken State

Miami (Ohio)

Northern Illinois

Ohio

Toledo

Western Michigan

 

Missouri Valley

Indiana State

Murray State

Evansville

Illinois State

UIC

Southern Illinois

Belmont

Missouri State

Valparaiso

Bradley

 

Mountain West Conference

Air Force

New Mexico

Fresno State

Nevada

San Jose State

UNLV

San Diego State

 

Northeast Conference

Sacred Heart

LIU

Merrimack

Wagner

Delaware State

FDU

Central Connecticut

LaMoyne

Stone Hill

Coppin State

Norfolk State

Maryland Eastern Shore

 

Ohio Valley Conference

Little Rock

Southeast Missouri

Morehead State

Southern Indiana

Tennessee Tech

Eastern Illinois

SIUEUT Martin

Lindenwood

Western Illinois

 

Patriot League (check this)

American

Boston University

Loyola Maryland

Navy

Richmond

Bucknell

Lafayette

Lehigh

Georgetowne

Holy Cross

North Alabama

Army

Colgate

 

SEC

Auburn

Florida

Georgia

Kentucky

LSU

Ole Miss

Mississippi State

Missouri

Oklahoma

South Carolina

Tennessee

 

Southern Conference

UNC Greensboro

Samford

ETSU

Western Carolina

Wofford

VMI

Mercer

The Citadel

 

Southwestern Athletic Conference

AAMU

ASU

Alcorn State

BCU

FAMU

Grambling

Jackson

MVSU

PVAM

Southern

TVU

UAPB

 

Summit League

  • University of Denver
  • University of Missouri-Kansas City
  • University of North Dakota
  • North Dakota State University
  • University of Nebraska Omaha
  • Oral Roberts University
  • University of St. Thomas
  • University of South Dakota
  • South Dakota State University

 

Sun Belt Conference

Louisiana

So Miss

Troy

James Madison

Georgia Southern

App State

Coastal Carolina

Old Dominion

South Alabama

Texas State

Georgia State

ULM

Marshall

Arkansas State

 

West Coast Conference

Gonzaga

LMU

Pacific

Pepperdine

Portland

St. Mary’s

San Diego

San Francisco

Santa Clara

 

Western Athletic Conference

Utah Valley

Abilene Christian

California Baptist

Grand Canyon

Sacramento State

Seattle U

Tarleton State

UT Arlington

Utah Tech

 

 

Tom’s Top 25 in 2025

  1. LSU – on the backs of William Schmidt, Derek Curreil, Anthony Eyanson  tis team is loaded
  2. Texas A&M – runner-up from 2024 return a plethora of  talent in Gavin Grahovic and Jace LaViolette
  3. Virginia – great bats in line-up
  4. Arkansas- loads of pitching
  5. Tennessee – national champs in 2024 look to repeat with additions such as Cardon Appenzeller and Gary Morse and solid pitching.
  6. Georgia- big bats for Dawgs with Tre Phelps and portal players like Christian Adams and Ryan Black
  7. UNC – bullpen has been shored up with Dalton Pence and power hitter Luke Stephenson on offense.
  8. Oregon State – powerful bats returning Elijah Hainline  along with U  of Washington transfer ss Avia Arquette and 3B Trent Caraway with pitchers LHP Nelson Keljia and likely the Friday guy.
  9. Florida State – Jamie Arnold is the top pitcher on the roster,Evan Chrest will likely get a weekend rotation spot and Max Williams will leads the offense.
  10. Florida – Key returners: Luke Heyman C/1B (,246, 16 HRs, 52 RBIs), Brody Donay C/DH (.246, 14 HRs. 32 RBIs), Cade Kurland 2B (.245, 14 HRs, 44 RBi’s
  11. Oregon
  12. NC State
  13. Duke
  14. Clemson-best 1/2 pitching in the country
  15. Vanderbilt
  16. Wake Forest- This team might go far with returning talent
  17. Mississippi State
  18. Oklahoma State
  19. Texas
  20. Arizona
  21. TCU
  22. Nebraska
  23. Dallas Baptist
  24. UCSB
  25. Indiana

first out: Troy.Kentucky, Oklahoma,Stanford,Kentucky

Top Freshman Pitchers in 2025 – College Baseball

Tom Knuppel Other

There will be many good freshman pitchers in he Collegiate ranks in 2025. I have selected some (usually the ones that get the most press) that  are on my “must” watch list. Again, you can add many, many mores names but here is ours.

 

Freshman Pitchers

 

(no order)

 

  1. Owen Paino (Ole Miss)

2. William Schmidt (LSU)

3. Christian Chatterton (Auburn)

4. Mason Brass field (TCU)

5. Duncan Marsten (Wake Forest)

6. Brayton Thomas (Indiana)

7. Hudson Barton (Vanderbilt

 

Check out more college baseball 2025 HERE

“Wicked” Book Review

Tom Knuppel Other
wicked

 Book Review: Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West

                    by Gregory Maguire

Gregory Maguire’s Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West* is a spellbinding tale that reimagines one of literature’s most infamous villains. Published in 1995, this novel serves as a revisionist take on L. Frank Baum’s *The Wonderful Wizard of Oz*, providing readers with a complex and often sympathetic portrait of the Wicked Witch of the West, who is named Elphaba in Maguire’s narrative. Wicked is the first book in Maguire’s *The Wicked Years* series, which also includes *Son of a Witch* (2005), *A Lion Among Men* (2008), and *Out of Oz* (2011).

With its intricate world-building, morally ambiguous characters, and politically charged themes, *Wicked* transforms the simple fairy-tale setting of Oz into a rich, multi-layered landscape. Spanning 406 pages in its original edition, the novel explores issues of power, identity, and the nature of evil, making it both a fantasy epic and a sharp social commentary.

 Summary of the Story

The novel opens with a retelling of Elphaba’s birth in the rural area of Munchkinland, where her green skin and sharp teeth immediately set her apart. Maguire presents her as an outsider from the very beginning, an image that will follow her throughout her life. Elphaba is born to Melena, a dissatisfied housewife, and Frex, a devoutly religious minister, both of whom grapple with feelings of alienation and disappointment over their peculiar child.

Elphaba’s journey takes her to Shiz University, where she befriends Glinda (the Good Witch) and begins to understand the political tensions gripping Oz. Maguire’s Oz is no utopia but a land of social inequality, oppression, and tyranny, ruled by the manipulative Wizard. These political realities awaken Elphaba’s sense of justice, turning her into a radical activist rather than the cackling villain of Baum’s tale.

As the novel progresses, Elphaba’s personal struggles intertwine with larger societal issues. Her tragic transformation into the Wicked Witch of the West is not the result of inherent malice but of systemic injustices, personal heartbreak, and the weight of misunderstood intentions. By the time Dorothy arrives in Oz, the reader has a completely different perspective on the events leading up to Elphaba’s death, making her fate all the more poignant.

 Themes and Writing Style in Wicked

Maguire’s prose is lush and descriptive, immersing readers in the vibrant and often darkly surreal world of Oz. The novel delves into themes of morality, free will, and the complexity of good and evil. By telling the story from Elphaba’s perspective, Maguire questions the binary labels of “good” and “evil” that are so prevalent in traditional fairy tales.

The book also addresses timely social and political issues, such as discrimination, environmental destruction, and authoritarianism. Through the lens of Oz, Maguire critiques our own world, showing how power and propaganda can shape narratives and marginalize certain groups.

 Comparison to Other Works

Gregory Maguire is known for his ability to take well-loved tales and flip them on their heads, often providing a darker, more introspective take on familiar stories. In addition to *The Wicked Years*, Maguire has written several other notable novels, including:

– Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister (1999): A retelling of *Cinderella* from the perspective of one of the stepsisters.
– Mirror Mirror (2003): A reimagining of the Snow White story set in Renaissance Italy.
– After Alice (2015): A companion novel to Lewis Carroll’s *Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland*, focusing on the characters left behind after Alice’s journey.

Maguire’s works are characterized by their complex characters, richly imagined settings, and thought-provoking themes. While his writing may not appeal to readers seeking straightforward retellings, fans of literary fiction and speculative reimaginings will find his stories deeply rewarding.

 Interesting Facts About Wicked

1. Broadway Adaptation: *Wicked* inspired the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical of the same name, which debuted in 2003. The musical, however, significantly alters the tone and storyline of the book, opting for a more hopeful and upbeat interpretation of Elphaba’s life.

2. Cultural Impact: The novel has become a cultural phenomenon, cementing Elphaba as a symbol of misunderstood outsiders and anti-heroes.

3. Language and Politics: Maguire invented a unique slang and political structure for Oz, adding depth to the world-building. For example, the concept of “Animal” (sentient animals) rights plays a critical role in the story.

4. Illustrations: The original hardcover edition includes beautiful illustrations by Douglas Smith, which enhance the immersive experience of the novel.

 Strengths and Weaknesses

One of Wicked’s greatest strengths is its ability to humanize a character who was previously seen as a caricature of evil. Elphaba’s struggles with her identity, morality, and relationships make her a deeply relatable and compelling protagonist. The novel’s exploration of the gray areas of morality is another highlight, challenging readers to question their assumptions about heroes and villains.

However, the book’s dense prose and philosophical tangents may not appeal to all readers. The narrative occasionally meanders, and some subplots feel underdeveloped. Additionally, the novel’s darker tone and complex political themes make it less accessible than the Broadway musical adaptation.

Rating and Conclusion

Overall, Wicked is a masterful reimagining of a classic tale, offering a fresh perspective on one of literature’s most iconic villains. Gregory Maguire’s ability to blend fantasy with social commentary makes the novel both entertaining and thought-provoking. While its dense prose and mature themes may not appeal to everyone, fans of literary fiction and complex world-building will find much to admire.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
The book loses one star for its occasional pacing issues and complexity, which might alienate some readers. However, its originality, depth, and emotional resonance make it a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and character-driven narratives. Wicked not only redefines the Wicked Witch but also challenges readers to rethink the very nature of storytelling itself.

 

“The Plantagenets” Book Review

Tom Knuppel Other

Book Review: “The Plantagenets” by Dan Jones.

*The Plantagenets: The Warrior Kings and Queens Who Made England by Dan Jones is a sweeping narrative that delves into one of the most tumultuous and transformative dynasties in English history. Spanning 635 pages, this book transports readers through three centuries of British rule, intrigue, warfare, and political evolution, exploring the lives and legacies of the Plantagenet kings and queens. With a vibrant prose style, Jones brings this medieval period alive, capturing both the grand sweep of history and the intimate, often brutal details of courtly life.

Overview

Published in 2012, The Plantagenets is the first of Jones’s deep dives into British royal history. The book is structured chronologically, detailing the origins, rise, and eventual fall of the Plantagenet dynasty, a family that ruled England from the accession of Henry II in 1154 until the death of Richard II in 1399. Jones’s narrative begins with the founding of the dynasty, focusing on Henry II’s consolidation of power, followed by a thrilling account of the political rivalries, military campaigns, and shifting alliances that defined this era. Through each king and queen, Jones explores the gradual evolution of England’s political structures, examining the monarchy’s conflicts with the nobility, the Church, and continental powers.

Jones provides detailed profiles of each ruler, examining the complexities of their personalities, their ambitions, and their influence on England and Europe as a whole. Notably, he doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the dynasty—whether it’s King John’s infamously tyrannical reign, the ruthless execution of rivals, or the constant civil wars. The narrative is rich with drama, as Jones demonstrates the Plantagenets’ contributions to shaping the identity of England, particularly through foundational changes like the Magna Carta and the establishment of parliamentary systems.

Writing Style and Approach

Jones’s approach to history is both academic and accessible. His writing is vivid and engaging, often using novelistic elements that help readers visualize the brutal landscapes, the architectural marvels, and the personalities that populated the Plantagenet court. His prose is easy to follow, making complex medieval politics and long wars manageable and even entertaining for general readers. This is no dry history textbook but a lively retelling that makes the Plantagenets and their world feel real and relevant. His style also appeals to readers who may be intimidated by medieval history or find it too dense. Jones uses narrative techniques that keep the pacing brisk, almost as though we’re following an epic saga.

Jones balances narrative storytelling with solid scholarship, grounding his accounts in reliable primary sources and established research. While he certainly brings his own interpretation to historical events, his presentation remains clear and fact-driven. This combination of readability and academic rigor makes The Plantagenets suitable for both casual readers and history enthusiasts.

Themes and Analysis

A major theme in The Plantagenets is the concept of kingship—what it means to wield power and the inherent responsibilities, burdens, and often impossible expectations it entails. Jones explores the way each king’s personality and character shaped their rule. For example, he examines Henry II’s intelligence and administrative genius, but he also shows how this was tempered by his often turbulent relationship with his wife, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and his rebellious sons. In contrast, Jones paints Richard the Lionheart as a warrior king, more interested in glory on the battlefield than the governance of his realm.

Another prominent theme is the importance of family alliances and rivalries. The Plantagenets’ story is full of familial betrayals, where brothers, fathers, and sons constantly undermine each other for power. This family dynamic adds a fascinating dimension to the broader political intrigue. For instance, the tensions between Henry II and his sons (particularly Richard and John) provide insight into the risks and fragility of hereditary rule.

The narrative also emphasizes how the Plantagenets forged England into a more centralized, powerful state. They played a significant role in shaping the English legal system, building military prowess, and crafting the image of England as a powerful and unified nation. Jones argues that despite their brutality and failings, the Plantagenets contributed foundational elements to the modern English state, making them critical figures in British history.

Additional Works by Dan Jones

Dan Jones is a well-regarded historian who has written several other popular history books focusing on medieval England and the British monarchy. Following *The Plantagenets*, Jones published *The Wars of the Roses* in 2014, which serves as a companion volume, detailing the brutal civil war that ended the Plantagenet line and ushered in the Tudor dynasty. Other notable works include *Magna Carta: The Birth of Liberty* (2015), which examines the legacy of this foundational document, and *The Templars: The Rise and Spectacular Fall of God’s Holy Warriors* (2017), which covers the history of the Knights Templar. Each of his books showcases his talent for making history accessible and engaging, with a strong emphasis on storytelling.

Rating and Conclusion

I would give The Plantagenets by Dan Jones a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. The book is impressively comprehensive yet remains approachable and engaging for a wide audience. It offers a well-rounded portrayal of one of England’s most influential dynasties, blending historical fact with the intrigue and drama that marked the Plantagenet reign.

While the book’s readability and Jones’s narrative skill are clear strengths, some readers might find his interpretations slightly romanticized or simplified in places. However, for those interested in a captivating introduction to medieval English history, *The Plantagenets* is an excellent choice. With its vivid storytelling and thorough historical detail, this book both entertains and educates, bringing the tumultuous world of the Plantagenets to life in a way few histories do. Whether you’re a history novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this book offers valuable insights into the legacy of a dynasty that helped to shape modern England.

“The Nightengale” by Kristen Hannah

Tom Knuppel Other ,
Hannah

 

“The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah

Kristin Hannah’s *The Nightingale* is a stirring historical novel set in France during World War II. Spanning 440 pages, this book takes readers deep into the struggles, sacrifices, and endurance of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle Mauriac, as they navigate the harrowing realities of Nazi occupation. Published in 2015, *The Nightingale* has since garnered acclaim for its portrayal of women’s resilience and bravery, depicting a side of war often left untold in traditional war literature.

Plot Summary and Themes

The story centers on two very different sisters with one powerful bond: love for family and for France. Vianne, the elder sister, is a cautious schoolteacher with a daughter, and her husband is sent to the front lines as the Nazis begin their occupation. Her life is thrown into chaos when a German officer billeted in her home forces her to make unspeakable choices to protect her daughter. Meanwhile, Isabelle, the rebellious and fiercely independent younger sister, joins the French Resistance. Driven by a desire to fight for her country’s freedom and her own sense of purpose, Isabelle undertakes dangerous missions, risking her life to save downed Allied airmen and help them escape across the Pyrenees Mountains.

Hannah uses the contrasting perspectives of Vianne and Isabelle to showcase two different but equally courageous responses to war. Vianne’s decisions reflect the quiet resilience of a mother doing whatever it takes to keep her child safe in a world of threats, while Isabelle’s actions capture the passion and daring of a young woman’s desire to stand up against oppression. Together, their stories honor the sacrifices of countless women who fought in their own ways against tyranny, even if history doesn’t always remember them.

One of the novel’s strongest aspects is its exploration of survival and morality under extreme circumstances. Readers witness the brutal impact of occupation on everyday life: food scarcity, violent reprisals, and the deep wounds inflicted on communities. Hannah crafts an emotionally charged narrative, asking readers to consider the cost of survival and how much one can sacrifice without losing themselves. As Vianne and Isabelle confront impossible choices, Hannah explores the delicate line between self-preservation and betrayal, drawing readers into the intense ethical dilemmas that come with wartime choices.

Characters and Writing Style

The characters of Vianne and Isabelle are both vividly drawn and multi-dimensional, offering relatable motivations, strengths, and flaws. Vianne’s evolution is especially poignant as she transforms from a passive figure to a determined protector, showing a kind of quiet courage that may resonate deeply with readers. Isabelle, on the other hand, embodies the fierce, impassioned drive of youth, though her rash decisions sometimes endanger her and others. The novel’s portrayal of sisterhood and the complex bond between these women adds another emotional layer, showing how they challenge, support, and ultimately inspire each other.

Kristin Hannah’s writing style is immersive and descriptive, making it easy for readers to feel the emotional weight of each scene. She captures the atmosphere of Nazi-occupied France in rich detail, from the cobblestone streets of small villages to the chilling presence of soldiers on every corner. Her prose is direct yet elegant, balancing historical accuracy with a strong narrative drive. Although some readers may find certain moments overly sentimental, Hannah’s prose generally succeeds in connecting readers with the characters’ internal struggles and triumphs.

Historical Accuracy and Impact

Hannah’s research shines throughout *The Nightingale*, as she draws upon the true stories of female Resistance fighters and civilians who suffered under Nazi rule. Her dedication to historical authenticity is evident in her detailed descriptions of wartime France, from the rationing and curfews to the complex dynamics of collaboration and resistance among the French. By focusing on women’s experiences, *The Nightingale* contributes a fresh perspective to the genre of World War II historical fiction, celebrating the unsung heroines who played crucial roles in the Resistance and survival of their communities.

Reception and Criticism

Since its release, *The Nightingale* has received widespread praise, quickly becoming a bestseller and sparking interest in Hannah’s broader body of work. It won the Goodreads Choice Award for Historical Fiction in 2015 and has been praised by readers and critics alike for its emotional depth and historical richness. The novel’s resonance has even led to a planned film adaptation, reflecting its impact and popularity.

Despite the overwhelming positive reception, some readers have pointed out minor criticisms. The book’s pacing slows in places, particularly in Vianne’s chapters, and a few plot twists feel somewhat predictable. Additionally, some readers may find the occasional romantic subplot to be unnecessary or out of place within the larger narrative. However, these critiques are minor compared to the novel’s overall impact and power.

Other Works by Kristin Hannah

Kristin Hannah has an extensive bibliography that covers a wide range of themes, often centered on strong female protagonists facing extraordinary challenges. Notable works include *Firefly Lane*, which delves into friendship and personal growth over decades; *The Great Alone*, a gripping story set in the wilderness of Alaska; and *Winter Garden*, which similarly explores family secrets and historical trauma. Like *The Nightingale, these novels emphasize emotional resilience and the strength of familial bonds.

 Final Rating and Recommendation

Overall, *The Nightingale* is a beautifully written, deeply moving tribute to the courage and sacrifices of women during one of history’s darkest times. Its well-developed characters, historical authenticity, and compelling narrative make it a standout in the genre of historical fiction. While the story can be emotionally heavy and even heart-wrenching, it is also a testament to hope and the strength of the human spirit.

For anyone interested in historical fiction, stories of female empowerment, or narratives that highlight untold perspectives of World War II, *The Nightingale* is a must-read. I would rate this novel a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars for its emotional depth, well-crafted characters, and powerful storytelling. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kristin Hannah or new to her work, *The Nightingale* is likely to stay with you long after the last page is turned.

Jimmie Johnson to Return to NASCAR in 2025 on Part-Time Basis

Tom Knuppel Other , , ,

 

Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, is set to make a remarkable return to the NASCAR circuit in 2025, reigniting excitement among fans and the racing community. Johnson’s comeback has generated buzz not just because of his storied past in the sport, but because it follows his foray into IndyCar racing and a partial NASCAR schedule in recent years. His return will not only be significant for his legacy but will likely influence team dynamics, viewership, and the competitive landscape of NASCAR.

Johnson’s legacy in NASCAR is already secure, with 83 Cup wins and seven championships, tying him with legends Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt. This feat, achieved primarily with Hendrick Motorsports, places Johnson in a pantheon of racing greats. His return is poised to add another chapter to a career that has captivated fans for over two decades. For Johnson, the decision to return to full-time racing represents both a personal challenge and an opportunity to reconnect with his NASCAR roots. After experimenting with open-wheel racing in IndyCar, where he encountered a steep learning curve, Johnson’s return to NASCAR will allow him to leverage his extensive experience on stock car tracks.

From a fan perspective, Johnson’s return adds a layer of nostalgia while also drawing attention to the upcoming 2025 season. NASCAR’s fan base is particularly loyal, and the return of such an iconic driver offers an opportunity to rekindle the enthusiasm of longtime supporters. Johnson’s comeback will be especially exciting for those who watched him dominate in the mid-2000s. It may also introduce a new generation of fans to the sport, as Johnson’s crossover appeal from his recent ventures may attract casual viewers curious to see how he adapts to the current NASCAR environment.

The shift in NASCAR’s competitive dynamics with Johnson’s return is an interesting subplot. The sport has changed considerably since Johnson last raced full-time in 2020, with the Next Gen cars bringing technological and design shifts that have impacted racing styles and strategies. These new cars, introduced in 2022, require adjustments in driving technique and offer a more level playing field, with closer finishes and tighter competition among teams. Johnson’s experience with various forms of racing could give him a unique perspective on handling the Next Gen vehicles, potentially allowing him to adapt quickly.

Johnson’s decision to race full-time in NASCAR in 2025 also has implications for his team, Legacy Motor Club. Johnson joined this team in a leadership role, and in his return to full-time racing, he will not only be focused on his individual performance but also on nurturing a competitive team culture. This move has the potential to elevate the standing of Legacy Motor Club within NASCAR’s team ecosystem. While Johnson’s presence alone won’t guarantee immediate success for the team, his knowledge and competitive edge could improve the overall performance of Legacy Motor Club. Young drivers on the team, too, stand to benefit immensely from his leadership and mentorship, which could lead to better development and team cohesion.

However, the challenges of a comeback should not be underestimated. Johnson faces an uphill battle as he competes against younger drivers who have adapted to the nuances of the Next Gen cars. At 49 years old, he will also be one of the oldest drivers on the track, a factor that can impact endurance and reaction times. In addition, Johnson’s limited experience with the new car design could be a hurdle, though his extensive racing background and adaptable driving style may mitigate this challenge. His return will likely require adjustments, both mentally and physically, to endure the grind of a full season, as well as to stay competitive against a new generation of drivers.

Beyond the on-track competition, Johnson’s return symbolizes a broader trend in NASCAR. In recent years, veteran drivers like Kevin Harvick, Kurt Busch, and Johnson himself have embraced hybrid careers, exploring part-time schedules, roles outside of NASCAR, and leadership positions within teams. Johnson’s full-time comeback stands out as a dedication to the sport and a willingness to continue growing and evolving, even late in his career. This trend may encourage other drivers to consider similar pathways, where they can balance competition with leadership and mentoring roles.

Ultimately, Jimmie Johnson’s return to NASCAR in 2025 is a momentous event for the sport. It represents the resilience and passion of one of NASCAR’s most iconic figures, while also adding excitement and narrative depth to the upcoming season. Whether Johnson achieves new milestones or simply competes admirably, his presence is sure to resonate across the NASCAR world, creating compelling storylines and inspiring fans of all ages.

Cardinals OFF-Season Talk (COST)

Tom Knuppel Other
Cardinals OFF-Season Talk (COST)

Welcome to the Cardinals Off-Season Talk , otherwise known as COST. Isn’t that ironic that is the exact word the Cardinals organization are relaying to the fans. It’s all about the COST. hey have stated they will not be putting a competitive team on the field and will trim the COST from the roster to reapply it to other areas, such as player development and minor league upgrades.

These are the same owners that laughed at the fans for not attending games when the 2024 season went terrible. Now they are going to purposely not add to the payroll. They Cardinals ORGANIZATION THINK THE FANS ARE STUPID! that is because they won’t like fans not showing up. But they will entice fans with their history. Things like another round of Yadi and Albert  promotions. Along with former World Series promos. They already started by bringing in the Savannah Bananas to play two games.

They already bought themselves one more year with an elaborate hoax within the front office. Mozeliak needed to go but he is around for little purpose. LAME DUCK GM is a bad thing. The incompetence inside the front office has been horrific!

 

Next time, I will be discussing who should go and who should stay. Also, let’s dive into the prospects.

 

Final! College Baseball Top 25 2024

Tom Knuppel Other

The 15 week season is complete. It is now time for the postseason to get underway.  In a day or two the brackets will be filled and the tourneys shall begin. Here is Tom’s Top 25 after the completion of the 2024 season.

 

1- Tennessee 46-10

2. Texas A&M 44-11

3. Kentucky 39-12

4. Clemson 40-13

5. Arkansas- 43-13

6. Oregon State 41-13

7. UNC       41-12

8. Florida State 39-13

0. Oklahoma 34-18

10. East Carolina    40-13

11. Georgia 39-14

12. UCSB      39-12

13. UC Irvine   41-11

14. Virginia     43-11

15. Miss State    36-19

16. NC State   32-19

17. Oklahoma State   36-16

18. Duke      39-18

19. Arizona    33-20

20. Wake Forest   36-19

21 Indiana State   36-16

22. Louisiana    40-16

23. Texas   38-20

24. Oregon    37-16

25. Southern Miss    37-18

 

 

Very soon I will post information on the postseason. Thanks for reading!

 

-Tom

 

Tom’s Top 25 College Softball week 11

Tom Knuppel Other

This is my second week of following along with the college softball teams and the Top 25. Here is my lists after Week 11 of the schedule.

My Top 25 College Baseball

 

Collegiate Softball

#1- Texas- The Longhorns are 35-6 for the season and face Iowa State for a series next.

#2- Oklahoma 42-4 will travel to Orlando and face UCF.

#3- Stanford 34-7  face a Top ten team in Washington.

#4- Duke 32-4 The Blue Devils will face NC State

#5- Tennessee 32-7  The Vols face a Top 25 teams in Alabama

#6- Washington 28-7 They take on 33 Stanford in a huge three game series.

#7- Oklahoma State 35-8 will be at home facing Kansas.

#8- LSU 36-8 Gets a challenge by playing Arkansas.

#9- Florida 35-9 The Gators play another ranked squad in Georgia.

#10- UCLA 29-9 has a regional match-up facing Arizona.

#11- Texas A&M 33-9 faces SamHouston.

#12- Missouri 33-11 and Mississippi State have a three game series this weekend.

#13- Arkansas 30-11 The Razorback

#14- Georgia 33-13

#15- Virginia Tech 31-9=1

#16- Florida State 31-10

#17- Miss State 29-12

#18- alabama-30-10

#19- Arizona 28-13-1

#20- Louisiana 29-14

#21- Northwestern 26-8

#22- Clemson 28-14

#23- Boston University  35-11

#24- Kentucky 36-15

#25- Oregon 26-15

 

another top  game this week include a Pac-12 contest between Arizona and UCLA. Also,here is last weeks Top 20 in college softball.

Please send me a note if you read or enjoy this segment on women’s softball.