Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for June 18, #268
Looking for the most recent regular Connections answers? Click here for today's Connections hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Mini Crossword, Wordle and Strands puzzles.
Today's Connections: Sports Edition features a killer purple category. How good are you at anagrams? Think baseball team names, and see where you can go with that. Read on for hints and the answers.
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Connections: Sports Edition is out of beta now, making its debut on Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 9. That's a sign that the game has earned enough loyal players that The Athletic, the subscription-based sports journalism site owned by the Times, will continue to publish it. It doesn't show up in the NYT Games app but now appears in The Athletic's own app. Or you can continue to play it free online.
Read more: NYT Connections: Sports Edition Puzzle Comes Out of Beta
Hints for today's Connections: Sports Edition groups
Here are four hints for the groupings in today's Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, ranked from the easiest yellow group to the tough (and sometimes bizarre) purple group.
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Yellow group hint: Not North
Green group hint: College competitions
Blue group hint: Soccer stars
Purple group hint: Mixed-up baseball teams
Answers for today's Connections: Sports Edition groups
Yellow group: NFC South teams
Green group: College football bowl games
Blue group: Last four NWSL champions
Purple group: Anagrams of MLB teams
Read more: Wordle Cheat Sheet: Here Are the Most Popular Letters Used in English Words
What are today's Connections: Sports Edition answers?
The completed NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for June 18, 2025, #268.
The yellow words in today's Connections
The theme is NFC South teams. The four answers are Atlanta, Carolina, New Orleans and Tampa Bay.
The green words in today's Connections
The theme is college football bowl games. The four answers are Holiday, Music City, Rose and Sugar.
The blue words in today's Connections
The theme is the last four NWSL champions. The four answers are Gotham, Pride, Spirit and Thorns.
The purple words in today's Connections
The theme is anagrams of MLB teams. The four answers are Gleans, Roasts, Stem and Traipse.
Gleans=Angels
Roasts=Astros
Stem=Mets
Traipse=Pirates
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New York Times
10 minutes ago
- New York Times
Fantasy baseball cheat sheet: Bench Shota Imanaga vs. Yankees and more THE BAT X insights
Baseball season is well underway, and with a plethora of articles, statistics and metrics available, it can be challenging to know who to start, sit, fade and trade. Using Derek Carty's THE BAT X projection system, The Athletic has developed a weekly program that helps fantasy managers with difficult roster decisions. Advertisement THE BAT X has been the most accurate original projection system in fantasy for five consecutive years and provides estimates based on a wide range of metrics, including Statcast metrics like exit velocity and barrels, as well as ballpark effects, weather conditions, matchups and much more. Another important concept to understand is regression to the mean, which means players performing above their typical level of play are likely to decline, while those underperforming are likely to improve. This week's iteration suggests targeting Mike Trout, streaming reliever Bryan King, and benching Shota Imanaga against the New York Yankees. And there's more — so much more. Let's get to it. Projections are based on a 12-team, mixed-league roto format with 23-player rosters. For a more thorough explanation of THE BAT X, read Carty's explainer. For first-time readers, we compare players' year-to-date value (value to this point in the season) against their projected rest-of-season value (value for the remainder of the season and not including YTD value). Values are expressed as dollars, and $0 represents a starting caliber player in the aforementioned 12-team mixed roto league format. This gives you an idea of which players may be available on your waiver wire, their value for the remainder of the year and why you should grab them before anyone else can. The differential can tell you all you need to know, but because this is a model, you'll want to use the projections alongside knowledge of your league. For example, Agustín Ramírez (an analyst darling) is valued at $12.30 to this point in the season but is projected to have a value of $22.20 from this point forward. Since Miami's catcher Ramírez first made this list, his rostered percentage has increased, and this might be your last chance to grab him off waivers. He has power with an expected slugging percentage of .510 (85th percentile) and Hard-Hit and Barrel rates above the 74th percentile. On the season, Ramírez has 13 home runs, a .241 batting average (with an xBA of .278) and an OPS of .750, which THE BAT X thinks will improve in the second half. On the pitching side, recently activated Brandon Woodruff is the only somewhat available pitcher with a rest-of-season value over $10. The Brewers' righty won't be available in all (or many) leagues, but he won his first start against the Miami Marlins, allowing two hits and one run (a homer) while striking out eight in six innings. He'll head into his second start with a 1.50 ERA and a 0.33 WHIP. Advertisement Reliever Cade Smith, with a ROS value of $5.20, is much more available, and he's 2-3 with three saves and a 3.19 ERA, and there's a lot to like in his Statcast metrics. His xERA is 2.58, and his K% is an incredible 36.1 (97th percentile), with a Whiff rate of 35.7 (95th percentile). He had a rough outing last time out, giving up four earned runs in the 10th inning, but THE BAT X thinks he can bounce back and have a decent finish to the year. Like the waiver wire, fades are determined based on the year-to-date roster value compared to THE BAT X's projected rest-of-season value. Many talented players, who you could very well hold based on roster construction, are on this list. However, the point is that their success is projected to drop off; due to their YTD performance, they could be valuable trade bait and get you a higher return than their actual worth. Max Muncy tops this list after being diagnosed with a bone bruise on his left knee that's expected to sideline him for six weeks. But Jacob Wilson and Geraldo Perdomo are great examples. You could choose to roll with these two, believing in their performances to date, or you could capitalize on how they've done and flip them for players with more proven success and a better, higher-valued toolkit. I actually believe in these players and their for-average hitting; however, they lack power upside. So, if your team lacks power, you could consider/try shipping either of these two for a proven power hitter. Last week, Eric D. commented, 'The concept is — here is the data/analysis, make your own decisions,' which I thought was a succinct description of what we're doing here. THE BAT X has a proven track record as one of the most accurate projection systems, and we're showing you what it's seeing. Look at your roster and team needs, check the data and make decisions accordingly. According to THE BAT X projection system, the following pitchers are overperforming their rest-of-season projections and could be considered fades or trade bait. Last week, we discussed Andrew Abbott; since then, his YTD value has dropped over $5, and his ROS value has decreased from $-9.90 to $-11.10. The projections suggest it might be time to see what return you can get for the Reds' lefty. Trade targets are similar to the waiver wire and fades, determined by current roster value versus THE BAT X's projected rest-of-season value. You might want these players on your roster for the rest of the season. You can even compare this list to the 'Fade or Trade' list above and see if there are deals to be made. The names on this list are well-known, but these players haven't yet lived up to their previous or expected success, meaning you may be able to acquire them for a good value, and any of them could help you greatly in the second half of the season. Advertisement One look at Mike Trout's Statcast metrics shows the potential for a strong rest-of-season. He's in the 90th percentile or above in xwOBA, xSLG, Barrel%, Hard-Hit, LA Sweet Spot% (100th), Chase% and BB%. His problem: He's striking out too much, at a rate of 27.6%, but that could decrease to at least his career average of 22.2%, which is still not stellar, but even a 5% decline will boost his category stats. The same goes for pitching. These are established pitchers who've been underperforming expectations and could be acquired for less than their worth. Logan Gilbert returned from the IL on June 16 following an elbow injury and hasn't completed six innings since; however, he's striking out plenty of batters. His 36.8 K% is the highest of his career, while his other season stats align with his career averages. Here are hitters with favorable pitching matchups this week. Roman Anthony tops this list, and Boston's No. 1 prospect is hitting .286 in five July games, compared to .210 in June. Adapting to the majors takes a little time, and he could be hitting his stride. Here's a look at hitters who have been over- and underperforming using weighted on-base percentage (wOBA) and expected weighted on-base percentage (xwOBA). Batters with an xwOBA lower than their actual wOBA could fall to numbers closer to expected, while hitters with lower wOBAs could surge as the season continues. This list includes players who have overperformed in the past 30 days, according to wOBA and xwOBA. While Brooks Lee is available on waivers and had a solid June performance (leading to more pickups), his Statcast metrics are BLUE, and his July has been dismal. Leave him where he is; a little luck elevated his June stats. The players on this list are the top underperformers in the past 30 days based on wOBA and xwOBA. Jonathan Aranda has had a slow start to July, but his xwOBA suggests this is primarily due to bad luck. He's having a breakout year, perhaps due to finally seeing regular playing time — he's on pace for almost 600 plate appearances. He's hitting the ball hard and maintaining an incredible .320 average and .879 OPS. There's no need to worry yet. Finally, we get to the top-scoring offenses of the week. For the first time in a long time, the Dodgers didn't make the list, and instead the Mets and Braves secured the top two spots. New York's Francisco Lindor, Pete Alonso, Brandon Nimmo and All-Star snub Juan Soto could be in for better weeks than usual. For Atlanta, Austin Riley, Matt Olson and Marcell Ozuna, along with struggling Ozzie Albies and Michael Harris II, could also see improved stats across the board. The top one-start pitchers list is limited to players rostered at 50% or less. Two-start pitchers for the week are ranked based on THE BAT X's projection system, and the list excludes those with a projected negative value. Lucas Giolito and Brayan Bello are solid streaming options when they face the below-lowly Rockies this week. Bello is more available than Giolito and is 4-3 with a 3.42 ERA. His expected stats are worse than his actual ones, but that might not matter much against Colorado. At the top of the two-start pitchers list is Jacob DeGrom, who could substantially help his fantasy teams in weekly lineup leagues. Lower on the list, Will Warren, also a waiver target, gets two starts this week. He's not an ace, and his 5.02 ERA is uninspiring, but his xERA is 3.64, which plays into THE BAT X projecting him for a stronger finish to the year. This week, THE BAT X suggests considering benching Cubs lefty Shota Imanaga when he faces the Yankees. While he's 5-2 with a 2.78 ERA, his xERA is 4.12, and he carries an 18.7 K% (26th percentile). 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Yahoo
12 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Stars React to Texas Floods: Matthew McMonaughey, Khloe Kardashian, Shakira & More Speak Out
Celebrities are speaking out following the devastating floods in Texas over the Fourth of July weekend. As search-and-rescue operations continue in and around Kerrville, Texas, Matthew McConaughey, Shakira, Khloé Kardashian, and more stars have taken to social media to react to the tragedy, which has claimed the lives of at least 80 people, including 27 children and counselors from the all-girls summer camp, Camp Mystic, according to ABC News. McConaughey -- who is from Texas -- shared a statement on X, formerly Twitter, asking fans to "lend a helping hand" to those in need amid the tragedy. "At least 70 lives have been lost, many more are unaccounted for, and countless Texans are hurting -- inside and out," he wrote. "If you're able, please lend a helping hand where and how you can. It's gonna be a long road ahead, but right now the shock, the pain, and the chaos need the steady hand of a neighbor. Texans are some of the most resilient and generous people on the planet." Singer Shakira announced that she was donating a portion of the proceeds from her San Antonio concert on Saturday night to those impacted. "Dear San Antonio, Our hearts and prayers are with those affected by the flood in Central Texas. We are donating a portion of tonight's show proceeds to Catholic Charities of San Antonio, who are providing disaster relief to the families impacted," she wrote on X. "If you would like to join me in donating, please click on the link below. Your help is important and appreciated," she continued, sharing a link to Catholic Charities Archdiocese of San Antonio. Khloé Kardashian shared a touching post on her Instagram Stories, writing, "I can't stop thinking about the families in Texas and the overwhelming pain they're going through right now." "As a mother, this kind of tragedy hits in a place words can't reach," the mom of two added. "The loss of those sweet, innocent children is something I can't fully process, there are just no words for this." 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"Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy. We are praying for them constantly," Camp Mystic said in a statement, per ABC News.


Geek Girl Authority
12 minutes ago
- Geek Girl Authority
New Release Radar: New Books Coming Out on July 8
There are a lot of new books coming out every week. With New Release Radar, I'll help you narrow down the week's new book releases into the titles you should get excited about. This week, I have eight great new books to share with you, including tons of great debuts and a sequel 10 years in the making. Read on! How to Survive a Horror Story by Mallory Arnold When legendary horror author Mortimer Queen dies, a group of writers gather at his eerie manor, expecting to inherit part of his vast fortune. Each guest has a personal connection to the literary icon, and most have long dreamed of filling his shoes. But instead of a will, they're offered a game. Solve the riddle and move forward, or the house will claim one of them. Built on generations of secrets and sacrifice, the Queen's estate isn't just haunted: it's hungry. Saw meets Agatha Christie in Mallory Arnold's nail-biting debut. How to Survive a Horror Story is a campy, thrilling locked room mystery. RELATED: New Release Radar: New Books Coming Out on July 1 Such Good People by Amy Blumenfeld April's life changes forever after a fateful night, her freshman year ends with her friend Rudy's arrest and her own expulsion. Fifteen years later, April is married to a rising political star and seemingly has it all, until Rudy's parole and resurfacing headlines threaten to upend everything. As past and present collide, April must choose between protecting the life she's built or honoring the friend who once sacrificed everything for her. Such Good People is a powerful story about how fast mistakes can change lives and how long it can take for justice to be restored. Amy Blumenfeld writes truly compelling characters and complex themes with care. Miss Caroline Bingley, Private Investigator by Kelly Gardiner and Sharmini Kumar Two years after Pride and Prejudice , Caroline Bingley is bored of country life. Things get a little more exciting when Georgiana Darcy's maid vanishes and Georgiana herself disappears in pursuit. Racing to London, Caroline stumbles upon a murder that pulls her into the city's dangerous underworld. With the help of Georgiana and Caroline's loyal manservant, she uncovers secrets tied to the East India Company and the human cost of empire. Armed with wit, wealth and a keen mind, Miss Bingley proves she's more than society ever expected, especially when there's a killer to catch. If you're looking for a fun, cozy historical mystery, you'll love Miss Caroline Bingley, Private Investigator . Kelly Gardiner and Sharmini Kumar wrote a classic work of Jane Austen fanfiction, perfect for some light summer reading. RELATED: Book Review: Most Ardently: A Pride & Prejudice Remix The Great Misfortune of Stella Sedgwick by S. Isabelle 18-year-old Stella Sedgwick dreams of independence in 1860s England, but as a sharp-tongued, dark-skinned girl, her prospects are limited. When an aristocrat unexpectedly leaves her a grand estate, Stella is thrust into London society, and a legal battle that would be easier to win with a husband. Reconnecting with her childhood friend Nathaniel Fitzroy and secretly reviving her mother's scandalous advice column, Stella navigates suitors, secrets and social prejudice. As the pressure mounts, she must choose between following society's rules or forging her own path to love and freedom. The Great Misfortune of Stella Sedgwick is Bridgerton for young adult readers. S. Isabelle doesn't shy away from the darker reality of 1800s England, but still created a fun, romantic and enthralling novel. The Gryphon King by Sara Omer As a child, Bataar became a legend for slaying a gryphon. Now a warlord chosen by god, he sets his sights on conquering Dumakra, a kingdom ruled by warrior princesses who ride winged, man-eating horses. When Dumakra falls, Princess Nohra vows revenge, but her bond with Qaira, Bataar's wife, complicates everything. As riots erupt and ancient monsters awaken, Nohra and Bataar must fight side by side to save their world, even as loyalties and hearts hang in the balance. Inspired by the Turkic cultures of Southwest Asia, Sara Omer's new book release is the start to a unique, exciting new fantasy trilogy. The Gryphon King is full of morally gray characters, slow-burn romance and terrifying monsters. RELATED: Book Review: A Far Better Thing All the Men I've Loved Again by Christine Pride In 1999, college freshman Cora Belle is determined to reinvent herself, until first love with charming Lincoln turns her world upside down. Years later, still scarred by heartbreak and a tragedy that reshaped her life, Cora reconnects with Aaron, a man who sees her deeply—and complicates her feelings even more. Now, 20 years on, both men return, forcing Cora to confront her past, her heart, and the woman she's become. All the Men I've Loved Again is a heartfelt exploration of love's lasting echoes and the roads not taken. Christine Pride's solo debut is perfect for anyone still thinking of a past love or looking for a second chance. Bring the House Down by Charlotte Runcie Alex Lyons is a sharp theater critic known for his black-and-white reviews – either five stars or one, nothing in between. When he writes a scathing one-star review of actress Hayley Sinclair's show and then has a one-night stand with her, their collision sets off a public war. Hayley reinvents her act as a viral takedown of Alex, exposing his privileged, predatory persona, while Alex refuses to apologize, dragging his colleague Sophie into the drama. Charlotte Runcie's new book release shows that there are two sides to every story. Told through multiple perspectives, Bring the House Down is a sharp, funny exploration of art, power, misogyny and the messy dance between reality and performance. RELATED: Book Review: Just Emilia The Woman in Suite 11 by Ruth Ware Lo Blacklock, a journalist eager to revive her career after motherhood, receives an invitation to the press opening of a luxury Swiss hotel owned by the elusive billionaire Marcus Leidmann. The chateau is a dream come true, but Marcus proves elusive. Things take a turn when a late-night call pulls Lo into a dangerous game when she finds a woman claiming to be his mistress in life-threatening danger. What follows is a high-stakes chase across Europe, forcing Lo to confront how far she's willing to go to save a stranger, and whether she can there's anyone she can truly trust. Nearly 10 years after her bestseller The Woman in Cabin 10 , Ruth Ware is back with a sequel. Just as twisty and dramatic as its predecessor, The Woman in Suite 11 will keep you guessing until the end. You can check out these new book releases at or your local bookstore. What July 8 new release are you most excited to read? Let us know below, and tune in next week to grow your TBR. Book Review: THE ROM-COM COOKBOOK