I will not miss Rafael Devers,
Not in spring, nor cool fall weathers,
Not on the field, not at the plate,
Not with a smile or sour face.
I will not miss him in a hat,
I will not miss him swinging a bat.
I’m glad he’s gone, and that’s a fact—
A deal was made, no turning back!

And while I know I’m in the minority here, I truly believe it was a good trade. Yes, I also agree with all the disgruntled Sox fans calling it a salary dump—because it was. But this was also about culture. By many accounts, Devers had become a clubhouse cancer, and with a young, up-and-coming roster, that’s the last thing you want. I’m confident the Sox brass will make a big move if they’re still in contention come the trade deadline.
Now onto something that made me really happy: OKC winning the NBA title this year. Shaivonte Aician Gilgeous-Alexander—easily one of the greatest names in world history—and now, one of the top three players in the NBA. With a regular season MVP, NBA Finals MVP, and an NBA title all in the same year, he’s elevated into rare air. And with teammates like Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, and a young, hungry roster, the Thunder are going to be a problem for years to come. Props to owner Clay Bennett, GM Sam Presti, and Coach Mark Daigneault—class acts all around, as shown in the postgame ceremony.
Switching back to baseball—how sweet it is to see the Yankees struggle. Yankees fans have filled my social feeds with standings screenshots and nonstop Aaron Judge hype. I’m over it. Here’s hoping their collapse continues!
On the local front, a huge congratulations to St. Johnsbury Academy on their Division I state championship in baseball! What a run, and what a championship game. Connor Decker had one of those unforgettable performances that will live on in Hilltopper lore. Kudos to Coach Kendall and his staff for turning things around just in time after a mid-season slump—the team’s resolve was unstoppable.

Congrats as well to Scott Blood and his Division IV championship baseball squad! There are a few constants in this world: death, taxes… and Blue Mountain in the D-4 title game every freakin’ year. Incredible!
And let’s not forget Oxbow’s continued dominance in softball with yet another Division III title. Congrats to Coach Simmonds and his amazing group of young women. We’re witnessing a dynasty.
Congrats goes out to several coaches and players recognized for the post season awards. Glad to see Lyndon’s Justin Smith and Jeremy Wheeler get recognized as the D-2 coach of the year for their respective leagues. And to all the players as well notably Wyatt Mason of LI got Capital League Player of the Year. Well deserved by everybody. I hadn’t seen the D-1 awards or other divisions as of yet.

Wishing everyone a great summer filled with all-star games, camps, and backyard barbecues!

The opinions expressed by EB are his own and do not reflect those of NSN. To reach EB, contact him at eberry@nsnsports.net. You can read all of Eric’s blogs at www.nsnsports.net.