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MSB Weekly Magazine – 2026-10-25

Maryland’s Weekly Sports Magazine • October 18 – October 25, 2026

Maryland Sports Blog Weekly

Coby Mayo Takes Major Step Forward in 2026, Establishes Himself as a Power Threat for Orioles

By Brian Hradsky The Baltimore Orioles entered the 2026 season hoping that Coby Mayo would begin turning his considerable…

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Brian’s Take: The Week That Was

Brian's Take recaps 24 MSB opinion takes published during the week. These are the key conclusions from MSB's reporting, analysis and game coverage.

1

Coby Mayo Takes Major Step Forward in 2026, Establishes Himself as a Power Threat for Orioles

Mayo Has Earned Another Opportunity Coby Mayo's 2026 season should be considered a success, even with the obvious flaws in his overall performance. A player who struggled to establish himself in the major leagues finished with 24 home runs, 63 RBIs and an OPS above .750. His power production and second-half improvement provided evidence that the Orioles' patience with their former top prospect was beginning to pay off. The biggest concern remains his inability to consistently handle right-handed pitching. A .177 batting average against righties is not sustainable for a player expected to become an everyday middle-of-the-order hitter. Mayo must also improve his defensive consistency, particularly if Baltimore intends to keep him at third base…

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2

Baltimore Orioles Name Jared Banner General Manager, Bringing Experienced Executive to Front Office

The Orioles made an important move by bringing Jared Banner into the organization, and his extensive player development background makes him an intriguing addition. Baltimore has spent years building its farm system, but the organization needs more consistent production from its young players at the major league level. Banner's experience with the Red Sox, Mets and Cubs should provide valuable insight into improving that process. His hiring also shows that Elias recognizes the need for additional leadership following two disappointing seasons. The biggest question is how much influence Banner will have on the organization's direction with Elias remaining in charge of baseball operations. Adding another experienced executive should improve decision-making, but the Orioles ultimately need…

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3

Columbia Ravens Basketball to Play Home Games at Reservoir High School Main Gym in March 2027

Playing home games at Reservoir High School's Main Gym gives the Columbia Ravens a consistent and convenient venue for their basketball season. This arrangement not only enhances the team's preparation and performance by providing a familiar environment but also fosters greater community involvement by making it easier for local supporters to attend games. Additionally, this shared use of facilities can strengthen cooperation among local schools and maximize the use of athletic resources. Source: Original report

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4

Columbia Ravens Basketball to Play at Reservoir High School Auxiliary Gym in March 2027

The Columbia Ravens Basketball team's scheduled games at Reservoir High School's Auxiliary Gym demonstrate the effective use of county athletic facilities to support multiple programs. The arrangement allows players and fans local access to competitive basketball events beyond the Ravens’ home venue. Such scheduling reflects a collaborative spirit within Howard County Public School System athletics, optimizing facility availability and fostering community engagement in high school sports.Source: Original report

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5

Columbia Ravens Basketball to Hold Thursday Evening Practices at Reservoir High School January through March 2027

Regularly scheduled practice slots at a consistent venue are vital for any basketball program aiming to develop teamwork and polish skills. By securing weekly evening sessions at Reservoir High School's auxiliary gym, the Columbia Ravens Basketball team ensures steady preparation time within Howard County. This setup not only supports player development but also provides a dependable routine that can enhance the team's competitive performance throughout the season. Source: Original report

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6

Alex Tuch Haunts Former Team With Overtime Winner as Capitals Rally Past Sabres 4-3

Washington's 4-3 overtime victory over Buffalo was an important response after the Capitals surrendered five unanswered goals during their previous loss to Los Angeles. This time, Washington found itself trailing 2-0 but demonstrated the resilience necessary to complete a comeback. Tuch could hardly have scripted a more memorable performance against his former team, scoring twice and delivering the overtime winner. His seven goals and four game-winning scores through 10 games demonstrate how valuable he has become to Washington's offense. Strome also deserves considerable recognition for his outstanding three-point performance. His two second-period goals erased Buffalo's advantage and gave Washington its first lead, while his overtime assist created the decisive scoring opportunity. Lindgren's ability to recover…

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7

Capitals Claim Defenseman Jack St. Ivany Off Waivers From Winnipeg Jets to Bolster Blue Line

Claiming St. Ivany is a sensible depth move for a Capitals team that has already experienced several defensive injuries. The 27-year-old brings size, physicality and enough NHL experience to provide another option when Washington needs reinforcements. His blocked-shot and hit rates during four games with Winnipeg suggest that he can contribute through defensive effort even without producing offensively. The Capitals do not need St. Ivany to become a top-four defenseman for the acquisition to provide value. The most appealing aspect of the transaction is that Washington did not have to surrender a draft pick or another player to acquire him. Patrick identified an available defenseman whose physical style could complement the organization's existing personnel. St….

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8

Capitals Look to Rebound Against Sabres as Alex Tuch Faces Former Team and Goaltending Questions Loom

Washington's matchup against Buffalo presents an important opportunity to respond after one of its most disappointing performances of the season. The Capitals cannot afford another defensive collapse like the one that allowed Los Angeles to score five unanswered goals Tuesday. Buffalo has demonstrated an ability to overcome multi-goal deficits, making it essential for Washington to maintain its defensive structure regardless of the score. The Capitals should emphasize puck management, disciplined coverage and finishing the scoring opportunities they create. Tuch facing his former team adds an interesting storyline, particularly because he has already scored five goals during his first nine games with Washington. His production has provided an important boost, while Leonard's development and contributions from…

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9

Washington Capitals Recall Mitch Gibson From Hershey Bears, Place Vincent Desharnais on Injured Reserve

The Capitals are fortunate to have an established minor league system capable of supplying replacements when injuries occur. Gibson has demonstrated that he can perform at the AHL and ECHL levels, and his recall is a deserved opportunity to show what he can contribute at the NHL level. Although his early numbers with Hershey this season have been inconsistent, his previous success suggests he can provide Washington with valuable depth if needed. Losing Desharnais for four to six weeks is arguably the more significant concern because of the defensive responsibilities he has assumed. Washington signed him to provide size, physicality and stability, and he was delivering those qualities during the opening nine games. The Capitals…

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10

Capitals Defenseman Vincent Desharnais Out 4-6 Weeks Following Emergency Appendectomy

The loss of Vincent Desharnais is more significant than his offensive statistics might suggest. Washington has relied heavily on his defensive positioning, physicality and penalty-killing ability, and his emergence was one of the most encouraging developments during the Capitals' opening nine games. Losing a player who was averaging nearly 20 minutes per game creates a substantial hole in the lineup. Fortunately, Matt Roy's return gives Washington an experienced defenseman who can help stabilize the situation. However, the Capitals will need improved contributions throughout their defensive group rather than expecting one player to replace everything Desharnais provides. His absence could expose weaknesses in Washington's depth if additional injuries develop. The biggest priority is ensuring Desharnais makes…

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11

Capitals Loan Jonny Brodzinski Back to Hershey Bears as Pierre-Luc Dubois Nears Return

Returning Brodzinski to Hershey makes sense for the Capitals if Dubois is close to being cleared for game action. Brodzinski provided valuable depth during his brief recall and contributed an assist on Leonard's goal against Los Angeles. However, Dubois plays a more significant role in Washington's lineup and gives Carbery additional options at center. The Capitals need their established forwards healthy as they attempt to recover from Tuesday's disappointing loss. For Hershey, the transaction represents an important addition to a roster that has already benefited from Brodzinski's offensive production. Five points in four games demonstrates his ability to contribute immediately, while his experience and leadership provide additional value. His return also gives the Bears another…

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12

Capitals Blow Two-Goal Lead as Kings Score Five Unanswered in 5-2 Loss

The Capitals' 5-2 loss to Los Angeles was one of their most disappointing performances of the young season because Washington had every opportunity to secure another home victory. The Capitals built a 2-0 advantage against a team that had not won a game, only to surrender two goals during the final 33 seconds of the opening period. That sequence completely changed the momentum and allowed the Kings to regain the confidence they had been missing throughout their difficult start. Washington cannot expect to win consistently when it allows opponents to erase multi-goal leads through preventable defensive mistakes. Leonard and Hutson provided encouraging performances by scoring Washington's two goals, and the Capitals generated enough offensive opportunities…

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13

Washington Capitals Look for Third Straight Victory Against Winless Los Angeles Kings

The Capitals have a favorable opportunity to extend their winning streak, but the Kings' winless record makes this a potentially dangerous matchup. Los Angeles has struggled offensively and defensively, yet its desperation could produce a much more aggressive performance than Washington might otherwise expect. The Capitals should focus on controlling possession, avoiding unnecessary penalties and attacking a vulnerable Los Angeles penalty kill. Washington cannot afford to become complacent against an opponent capable of turning its season around with one strong performance. Washington's offensive depth has been encouraging during its recent victories, especially with several important players unavailable because of injuries. Leonard, Strome and the Protas brothers have provided valuable contributions, while Ovechkin remains capable of…

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14

Navy’s Comeback Falls Short as North Texas Uses Explosive Plays to Win 49-39 Despite Historic Effort From Jackson Gutierrez

Navy's 49-39 loss to North Texas was especially frustrating because the Midshipmen produced enough offense to win against a strong conference opponent. Gutierrez delivered an outstanding performance with 228 rushing yards, three rushing touchdowns and another score through the air, while Navy generated 506 total yards and controlled possession for more than 37 minutes. Those statistics demonstrate the potential of the Midshipmen's offense when it executes effectively. However, the two non-offensive touchdowns surrendered to North Texas created a 14-point disadvantage that ultimately proved decisive. The biggest concern was Navy's inability to prevent explosive plays, particularly when the Midshipmen were attempting to establish momentum. Carnes' punt return and Barker's fumble return created major scoring swings, while…

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15

Morgan State Blows 14-Point Fourth-Quarter Lead as Howard Wins 26-20 on Overtime Pick-Six

Morgan State's 26-20 overtime loss to Howard was an extremely disappointing result because the Bears controlled much of the contest and appeared positioned to begin MEAC competition with a victory. Building a 20-6 fourth-quarter lead should have provided enough separation to protect the advantage, particularly after the defense prevented Howard from scoring a touchdown through three quarters. Instead, the Bears allowed two late touchdowns and suffered a devastating interception return in overtime. The result demonstrated how quickly a competitive advantage can disappear when a team fails to execute during critical situations. The most concerning aspects of the defeat were Morgan State's 14 penalties for 110 yards and its inability to finish drives consistently. The Bears…

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17

Smithsburg Leopards Girls Varsity Soccer to Host Walkersville High School on October 26

This match presents an important home opportunity for the Smithsburg Leopards girls soccer program to showcase their skills against a regional rival. Hosting Walkersville High School allows the Leopards to leverage home-field advantage while preparing for the remainder of the season. Fans and community members can anticipate a competitive game between two established Maryland high school girls soccer teams. Source: Original report

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18

Suitland High School Girls Varsity Basketball Announces 2026-27 Prince George’s County Schedule

Suitland High School's 2026-27 girls varsity basketball schedule provides the Rams with a strong lineup of district opponents within Prince George's County Public Schools. Competing against familiar county rivals such as Bladensburg, Duval, and C. H. Flowers offers valuable opportunities to gauge team progress and strengthen local rivalries. The consistent 7:15 p.m. start times create a stable routine that benefits players, coaches, and supporters, contributing to a well-organized season. This schedule highlights the competitiveness of girls basketball in Prince George's County and sets the foundation for meaningful athletic development and community engagement in the upcoming season. Source: Original report

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19

Laurel Spartans Girls Varsity Volleyball Schedule Includes Away Match at DuVal High School on October 26, 2026

The Laurel Spartans Girls Varsity Volleyball team's schedule for the 2026-2027 season reflects a balanced mix of home and away matches against competitive programs in the region. The upcoming away game at DuVal High School will provide the Spartans with an opportunity to test their skills on the road and build momentum as they compete in what appears to be a demanding schedule. Consistent exposure to diverse opponents can foster growth and resilience, which are vital for the development of the program and the student-athletes. Source: Original report

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20

Largo Lions Girls Varsity Basketball Releases 2026-27 Season Schedule Featuring December 15 Opener

With a full slate of games against familiar Prince George's County opponents, the Largo Lions Girls Varsity Basketball team has the chance to leverage local rivalries and build momentum early in their season. Starting the schedule with a home game against CMIT Academy North High School sets a vital tone for team cohesion and competitive energy. These matchups will not only test the Lions' skills but also serve as key gauges for their development and playoff aspirations in the upcoming season. Source: Original report

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22

Trae Young Leads Wizards Past Bulls 124-120 as Washington Survives Furious Fourth-Quarter Comeback

Washington's 124-120 victory over Chicago was an encouraging result because the Wizards responded to Friday's loss with their strongest offensive quarter of the season. Young delivered another productive performance with 25 points and nine assists, while George contributed an impressive all-around effort with 22 points, nine rebounds and four blocks. Davis also improved after his difficult performance against Toronto, scoring 19 points and contributing important baskets during the third-quarter surge. The combination helped Washington overcome a five-point halftime deficit and establish what appeared to be a comfortable lead. The biggest concern remains Washington's inability to maintain defensive intensity throughout complete games. Allowing Chicago to erase most of a 21-point deficit during the fourth quarter was…

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23

Wizards Look to Bounce Back Against Bulls as Anthony Davis Seeks Redemption After Raptors Loss

Washington's matchup against Chicago provides an immediate opportunity to respond after a disappointing loss to Toronto. The Wizards demonstrated offensive potential during their opening victory over Milwaukee, but their 23 turnovers and rebounding problems against the Raptors were unacceptable for a team attempting to establish a more competitive identity. Davis must provide a stronger performance after scoring just nine points Friday, while Young needs to continue directing the offense efficiently. Washington has enough talent to challenge Chicago, but the team must demonstrate better execution throughout the lineup. The Bulls present an interesting challenge because they are also adjusting to a new coaching system and have experienced dramatically different results during their opening two games. Chicago…

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24

Navy Women’s Triathlon Makes History With Third-Place Regional Finish as Cashin and Wilkinson Qualify for Nationals

Navy women's triathlon has made remarkable progress in a relatively short period, and Saturday's third-place regional finish represents one of the most significant achievements in the program's history. Improving from eighth place to third in a single season demonstrates the impact of stronger depth, experienced leadership and continued athlete development. Cashin and Wilkinson deserve recognition for securing automatic national championship berths, but the team's overall performance was equally impressive. Norton's narrow advantage in the fifth-scorer tiebreaker demonstrated how every athlete can influence the outcome of a major collegiate competition. Cashin's historic All-East Region recognition provides another reason for optimism as Navy prepares for the national championship. Her 11th-place finish established a program record, while Wilkinson's…

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By the Numbers

40

Full stories

7

Sports sections

24

MSB Takes

8

Days covered

Quote of the Week

"Jared has been one of the rising talents in our league for some time, now. He has demonstrated success running multiple different departments and has worked alongside some of the best people and front office talent in the league across multiple stops."

Baltimore Orioles Name Jared Banner General Manager, Bringing Experienced Executive to Front Office

This Week in Maryland Sports

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Baltimore Orioles

Baltimore Ravens

Washington Capitals and Hershey Bears

Maryland College Sports

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Washington Wizards

Washington Nationals

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