• Dodgers

Dodgers gave Max Muncy a second chance, and he's making the most of it

The sequence of events which delivered Max Muncy into the middle of the Dodgers lineup began 14 months ago with a text message. It was sent by general manager Farhan Zaidi, who knew Muncy during their time together in Oakland. Soon after the Athletics released Muncy on March 31, 2017, Zaidi reached out and asked a question: Do you want a job?

By Andy McCullough

12:00 PM

• Sports

Ultra running can mean extreme heat, mountain climbs and, oh yeah, look out for those trees

Reaching the finish line is never guaranteed in ultra running, a version of the marathon in which athletes attempt far-longer distances in often harsh conditions. One popular ultra race begins in the searing heat of Death Valley and climbs 8,300 feet to the base of Mt. Whitney.

By David Wharton

4:00 AM

• World Cup

Russia beats Saudi Arabia 5-0 for first World Cup win in 16 years

Russia opened its World Cup on Thursday with a quick, energetic opening ceremony. Then Russia’s national team went out and provided an encore.

By Kevin Baxter

5h