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Stephen King’s Spooky Story that Even Scared Him

It’s common knowledge that Stephen King is the master of horror stories. His scary tales have sent chills running down the spines of people worldwide. However, did you know that even the horror genius himself had a horror idea too terrifying even for him? Yes, you read it right! Here’s a look at King’s chilling tale that was too spooky even for its creator.

Scary Plot with a Twist

Back in 1995, the renowned author hinted at a spooky plot during a chat with famous TV host Conan O’Brien. It centered on a couple waiting to fly from Denver’s Stapleton Airport. Out of nowhere, the lady vanishes after entering the airport’s women’s restroom. What’s even weirder is that she never comes out!

As the worried husband waits and as time ticks by, more women enter the restroom but don’t leave. They simply disappear one after the other, leaving behind anxious partners in a grim situation. Eventually, this mysterious event grabs the attention of both law enforcement and the state militia.

A Fearful Mystery

Now isn’t that a classic Stephen King plot? Mysterious with an edgy progression designed to make your heartbeat race – it’s his trademark way of storytelling. However, the real horror isn’t the woman or the other ladies disappearing. It’s not even the anxiety building in the unsuspecting husband or the coming of the police. It’s the chilling fact that King couldn’t provide a resolution to the mystery. The question of what was happening inside the restroom scared him too much to finish the story.

Some might say this unfinished story might have been a scarier successor to his famous novel ‘The Shining.’ However, the idea remained in the realm of King’s dark, creative mind, never seeing the light of day.

The Importance of Author Recognition

While this story may be incomplete and undeveloped, it’s worth noting King’s stance on author recognition. The enigmatic novelist, whose works have been transformed into many thrilling TV shows and movies, always emphasizes the necessity of authors getting their dues.

In his chat with Deadline, he talks briefly about wanting authors to have a say in screenwriting, directing, and casting choices for any adaptations of their books. This statement comes following his dissatisfaction with Stanley Kubrick’s movie version of ‘The Shining.’ King claimed that the character of Jack Torrance didn’t undergo the same internal struggle portrayed in his novel. King regretted how the gripping portrayal of a man losing his sanity didn’t quite make it to the big screen, causing Torrance’s character depth and subsequent sorrow to be lost.

Despite these differences, viewers still find ‘The Shining’ horribly scary. The movie is available on Max for those who dare to watch!

Final Thoughts

So, the next time you settle down to read a Stephen King horror novel or watch one of his thrillers, remember that even the beyond-talented horror genius himself was afraid to finish a story. It’s a fun fact most fans don’t know about!

The story that was too hair-raising for King remains the chilling reminder that even the masters of the genre aren’t immune to a good scare. This goes to show that anyone, not even a horror maestro like King himself, is exempt from the power of fear. After all, isn’t it the thrill of being scared that makes us love horror stories so much? No one knows this better than Stephen King.

For more details, visit Project Casting Blog on https://www.projectcasting.com/blog/news/the-stephen-king-story-that-even-scared-its-creator/

A Look at How Star Wars Prequels Boosted Modern CGI

Star Wars Prequels and Modern Sci-Fi Films

Let’s look at how the Star Wars prequels shaped modern science fiction and fantasy movies. If you’ve ever been amazed at characters like Avatar’s Na’vi or Thanos from the Marvel Universe, you have these films to thank. These Star Wars prequels introduced us to the impressive world of Computer Generated Imagery (CGI).

Trailblazing with CGI Characters

The Star Wars prequels expertly mixed real and CGI characters, setting the trend for later films. Remember the epic battle between Yoda and Count Dooku in Attack of the Clones? That fight scene with a CGI Yoda seemed so real, setting a brilliant benchmark for CGI character integration.

Ahmed Best’s Crucial Contribution

Ahmed Best’s portrayal of Jar Jar Binks also played a big part in CGI. Although not everyone liked Jar Jar Binks, his character showcased the potential of CGI. His attention to keeping the fight scene authentic between the fully CGI Yoda and Darth Tyranus also played a big part in the movie’s success.

Ahmed Best’s Inspiration and Influence

When Ahmed Best found out about concerns regarding the fight scene’s execution, he took matters into his own hands. He watched numerous anime and kung fu movies to brainstorm how to maintain Yoda’s strength in the fight. He took inspirations from movies starring Jet Lee and Jackie Chan, and animes like Ninja Scroll and Akira.

Embracing Collaborative Creativity

Ahmed Best found a lot of support in Rob Coleman and his team. Their willingness to accept and develop suggestions was refreshing. Ahmed praised their humble attitude and the trust he received from the team.

The Star Wars Prequels’ Everlasting Impact

The Star Wars prequels’ impact can still be seen today. Rob Coleman’s animations, particularly for Yoda, set a standard for CGI characters in cinema. For instance, Gollum in the Lord of the Rings trilogy is a standout example of how this technology changed movies.

If you want to revisit the sci-fi revolution, Star Wars: Attack of the Clones is available to stream on Disney+. Ahmed Best’s part in that movie is a symbol of the teamwork which lead to some stunning CGI characters. Not only did these efforts shape the Star Wars universe, but they also influenced the wider world of sci-fi movies.

In conclusion, the Star Wars prequels brought about a big change in science fiction films. CGI became a vital part of making movies, and Ahmed Best played a big role in that. His portrayal of Jar Jar Binks, while not always popular, was groundbreaking. His dedication to authenticity in his work kept the character true to form. Today, the effects of the Star Wars prequels on modern science fiction and fantasy films can still be seen. Every time you watch a movie filled with CGI, remember the work that went into pioneering the technology. The Star Wars prequels did more than just entertain – they revolutionized filmmaking.

For more details, visit Project Casting Blog on https://www.projectcasting.com/blog/news/star-wars-prequels-impact-on-modern-cgi-explored-by-ahmed-best/

Animation vs Live-Action: The Future of Gears of War Adaptation

Video Game Adaptations achieve Stardom

Hey there, it looks like the era of comic book movies may be dipping as video game adaptations rise. With the intention to stand out, these adaptations are encouraged to dodge cliched blunders and establish their unique niche. Right now, all eyes are on the forthcoming Gears of War transformation.

Gears of War Joins the Film Race

Get set, Gears of War is now on the film adaptation bandwagon! While the details around the project are still fuzzy, we know Netflix is steering the ship. Jon Spaihts, celebrated for his work on Dune, is rumoured to be masterminding the script.

Fans Stir Early Excitement

Fans don’t just chill while the project is in the making. An intriguing concept cropped up on Reddit’s Gears of War platform. A fan, identified as Totenkopf_Division, suggested that Tom Hardy would make a great Baird in live-action. This fascinating concept has now morphed into discussions around animated adaptations — a cool twist.

Why Animation could Trump Live Action

Traditional Hollywood often labels live action as the apex of film production. We’ve seen this idea being put under scrutiny, thanks to the achievement of animated video game adaptations.

The Super Mario Bros Set a Precedent

The animated Super Mario Bros movie is a prime example. Released last year, the film banked over a billion dollars and earned applause for its faithful recreation of the game world. This victory gave a sturdy push toward animation for game adaptations.

Taking a Cue from Nintendo

Like Super Mario Bros, Gears of War could potentially encapsulate the game visually through animation. We’ve seen the Final Fantasy movies follow this path, ensuring a visual link between the games and the cinematic version.

Animation also presents a unique set of perks. It avoids the dreaded ‘Ugly Sonic’ uproar caused by stylistic compromises. Plus, it can showcase the franchise’s memorable gore without bleeding the budget. An animated Gears of War adaptation might just be the exciting show we need!

The Success of Arcane: A Role Model

Netflix’s Arcane beautifully showcases the potential of animated video game adaptations. Since Netflix is behind the Gears of War undertaking, it can learn from its own triumph and craft an equally captivating take on this popular game.

Animated or Live-Action: What’s Your Choice?

And we’re back to the million-dollar question: Should Gears of War be a live-action or an animated movie? The debate has certainly caught the interest of many. So, what’s your take? Do let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Got Fascinating Ideas?

Speak up! Let’s have a lively discussion around this new wave of entertainment. After all, it’s the fans that shape the success of these adaptations! So, what do you envision for a Gears of War movie? We’re all ears! Stay tuned for more updates.

For more details, visit Project Casting Blog on https://www.projectcasting.com/blog/news/gears-of-war-movie-should-it-be-animated-or-live-action/

A Tale of Two Documentaries: The Unraveling Drama of Alec Baldwin’s ‘Rust’ Incident

Hey ya’ll, listen up cause we have a story to tell. There’s a unique drama unfolding in Hollywood. Actor Alec Baldwin, famous for his stellar acting career, unfortunately is in the midst of an unusually grim spotlight. A frightening incident on the set of the movie ‘Rust’ led to the sad death of one of the movie crew, a lady named Halyna Hutchins. Baldwin, who was handling the gun, now faces charges of unintentional killing.

The Devil is in the Details

Baldwin could end up spending about a year and a half behind bars. As if this wasn’t enough drama, two different movies are being made about this incident. Each one gives a different side of the story. It’s like two sides of the same coin, you know?

First, there’s Rachel Mason. She makes documentaries and she’s pretty good at it, too. Now she wants to capture this drama in her own unique movie. Mason is a family friend of Hutchins, which adds a personal twist to her work. This isn’t just some random project for her, she’s been interviewing the movie crew since 2021.

See it Through Their Eyes

So, this film has a pretty clear mission. It wants to honor the memory of Halyna Hutchins. In this, Mason’s film wants to show us what Hutchins meant to those who knew her. This deep touch makes it more than just a drama. The movie gets a green light from ‘Rust’ producers. They became confident in its honesty and gave exclusive access to their stories. Fun fact, right?

A Different Take

Next, we have a totally different perspective. Oscar-nominated director Rory Kennedy is also giving it a go. Her project aims to show Baldwin’s experiences, how he felt before, during, and after the accident. You’ve gotta admit, it’s pretty awesome seeing these two unique takes on the same story.

Kennedy’s been working on her film for over a year. What’s more intriguing is that Baldwin is a part of the docu-drama himself. That’s right, it is expected that this film will go deep into Baldwin’s emotional roller coaster through the incident. Intriguing, huh?

The Race Against Time

Attention, ladies and gents, the trial will start on July 9th. So, both directors are ticking against the clock. They aim to secure important events from the trial. This means in the following two weeks, we can expect some fresh, impactful footage. It’s almost like watching a thriller movie, isn’t it?

Bottom Line

So here’s the deal. The accident on the set of ‘Rust’ now has two distinct narratives. Directors Rachel Mason and Rory Kennedy give us unique insights into one tragic event. Whether it’s empathy, truth, or transparency, the drama’s got it all. As viewers, we’ll get more than just headlines. We’ll get a close look at filmmaking and how a single incident can alter many lives. So, gear up film lovers, because in this tale of two documentaries, the drama of Alec Baldwin’s ‘Rust’ incident is about to get a lot more interesting.

For more details, visit Project Casting Blog on https://www.projectcasting.com/blog/news/dual-documentaries-dive-into-the-rust-incident-surrounding-the-alec-baldwin-trial/

Eddie Murphy’s Legendary Return in ‘Axel F,’ A Look at the ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ Franchise

We’re totally stoked about Eddie Murphy’s comeback as Axel Foley, and it seems so is the internet! Murphy’s been acing the press tours, reliving the glory days of ‘Beverly Hills Cop’. So, we thought, why not rank this iconic series that propelled Murphy to the bright lights of Hollywood stardom? Let’s explore how each installment measures up!

Spot No. 4: ‘Beverly Hills Cop III’ Upsets

In fourth spot, we find ‘Beverly Hills Cop III’, directed by John Landis. Murphy’s performance was cool but the film just didn’t live up to our hopes. Even big-time theme park fans find the movie too long and kind of dull. The constantly changing sidekicks were confusing too, and key character Reinhold barely had a chance to shine. Sorry, John Landis, but his one just didn’t hit the target.

Middle-of-the-Pack: ‘Axel F’ (2024) – Murphy’s Comeback

Murphy’s return as Axel Foley could’ve turned out badly, given the lukewarm reaction to ‘Beverly Hills Cop III’. But, director Mark Molloy masterfully mixed Murphy’s unique comedy style into an older, yet charming Axel Foley. Sure, it leans on nostalgia, but Murphy along with Taylour Paige make it a fun watch.

There’s hope, too, for upcoming entries. Murphy, Paige, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt look set to be a hit team. At the end of the day, Axel F is Murphy’s show and he shines like the star he is.

Second Place: ‘Beverly Hills Cop II’

The follow-up to the original action-comedy was a box office success, but it didn’t topple the first film. There were funny moments from Judge Reinhold and John Ashton, but it felt like there wasn’t enough Murphy magic. Too bad!

Still, director Tony Scott gave us brilliant action scenes that are still talked about. With a cool aesthetic to match, these action sequences are a high point. A few bumps along the way, but it’s still fresh and earns runner-up status.

Top of the Charts: Original ‘Beverly Hills Cop’

Taking the crown is the original ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ directed by Martin Brest. This 1984 classic is a comedy goldmine. It rocketed Murphy and Brest to fame. Murphey’s unique comedic style made the film a massive hit.

‘Beverly Hills Cop’ defined a time in American culture and even chatted with the Oscars. So, it’s no wonder it’s a pop culture favorite and swept Murphy to the top of the Hollywood A-list. It’s nothing short of deserving of the top-ranking spot in the ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ franchise history.

There’s the scoop on the ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ franchise rankings. Makes you want to check out these films again, doesn’t it? Keep an eye on our socials for more awesome entertainment content. And if you’re an Eddie Murphy or ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ fan, make sure to stay locked here for all the freshest updates!

For more details, visit Project Casting Blog on https://www.projectcasting.com/blog/news/eddie-murphys-return-to-beverly-hills-cop-a-ranking-of-the-iconic-franchise/

The Untold Story Behind Colin Trevorrow’s Unmade Star Wars Finale

The Journey to Star Wars: Duel of Fates

Did you know that Colin Trevorrow, the star director behind Jurassic World, was supposed to direct the last part of Star Wars sequel trilogy? Yeah, it’s true. Trevorrow and his regular writing buddy, Derek Connolly, whipped up a script for a film named “Star Wars: Duel of Fates.” The title sounds familiar, right? It’s from the much-loved musical score in the prequel series.

But Here’s the Twist!

Differences in creative views led to Colin Trevorrow stepping down from the project. Taking over the directing reins, J.J. Abrams revised the script substantially. Now, several fans wonder how things would have turned out if Trevorrow’s version made it to the big screen.

The Script Leak and What Fans Had to Say

Before Abrams started tweaking the script, Trevorrow’s original screenplay floated around the internet. Many Star Wars fans found his draft more impressive than what eventually surfaced in “The Rise of Skywalker.” Yet, not everyone was thrilled by Trevorrow’s plotline.

The Point of Contention

A bone of contention with fans was a part in the script where Yoda thanks Rey for teaching Jedi to harmonise the light and dark side. This was against the grain of George Lucas’s original Jedi lore that teaches to embrace the darkness yet still choose the light. The perceived deviation from the original storyline did not sit well with the fans, to say the least.

What Led to Trevorrow’s Departure?

Even though Trevorrow and Connolly were credited in “The Rise of Skywalker,” their original storyline underwent considerable changes. Some fans even liked Trevorrow’s first draft more than the final product from Abrams and co-writer Chris Terrio.

Trevorrow’s decision to step down from the director’s seat followed mixed reviews to Rian Johnson’s “The Last Jedi” and the sad departure of much-loved actress Carrie Fisher. These events led to many changes to Trevorrow’s original screenplay causing a fallout with Lucasfilm.

Lucasfilm made it clear this was a mutual decision, with both sides having different visions for the ninth episode of the Star Wars saga.

Implications on Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker?

While major changes were made, the final film still carried a few elements from Duel of Fates. For example, the Sith hologram that Kylo Ren comes across in Mustafar was part of Trevorrow’s original vision.

After bowing out from the project, Trevorrow admitted that it was tough to let go, but he’s optimistic about the future of the franchise. He still contributes to the cinematic universe through other projects.

So, What Now?

As we speak, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker is streaming on Disney+. You can watch and wonder what could have been if Trevorrow stuck around till the end. No matter which side of the fence you sit on, it’s always interesting to see how different the same story could have been with another creative mind at the helm.

After all, isn’t wondering ‘what if’ a big part of the fun of being a Star Wars fan? Happy viewing!

For more details, visit Project Casting Blog on https://www.projectcasting.com/blog/news/the-controversial-tale-of-colin-trevorrows-cancelled-star-wars-script/

A Look Back at M.A.N.T.I.S – the Superhero TV Show from the 90s

Finding Hidden Gems in Television History – M.A.N.T.I.S

Imagine this – someone gives you a state-of-the-art yacht as a gift, then abruptly decides to change it completely. That would irk you, wouldn’t it? A similar misfortune occurred with the 90s TV show M.A.N.T.I.S. Sam Raimi and Sam Hamm, brilliant minds behind popular comic book movies like Spiderman and Batman (1989), crafted the show. With such high-rollers involved, everyone expected a showstopper.

How M.A.N.T.I.S Saw the Light of Day

Our story begins in 1993 when Fox challenged Sam Raimi and Sam Hamm with creating a superhero TV show. Resulting from these efforts came M.A.N.T.I.S — representing Mechanically Augmented Neuro Transmitter Interception System. A bewitching TV movie or pilot ensued, with the renowned Carl Lumbly cast as Dr. Miles Hawkins.

Playing Dr. Hawkins, Lumbly portrayed an intellectual superior yet indifferent genius. His lack of compassion for the underserved, particularly the black community, was glaring. This cold indifference melted away when he became paraplegic during a riot caused by a rogue policeman. Hawkins sued the city but lost, sparking a realization of the system’s corruption.

Swallowing this bitter pill, Hawkins channeled his genius into creating an innovative suit. The suit not only restored his ability to walk but also came armed with freeze darts and a transformative vehicle. Cool, huh?

Getting to Know Carl Lumbly

Carl Lumbly, the man embodying MANTIS, has been impressing with his acting prowess since the ’80s. Prior to M.A.N.T.I.S., Lumbly appeared in the cult film ‘The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension.’ Post-M.A.N.T.I.S., his career continued to flourish with standout roles in popular series like Alias and House of Usher.

The TV movie gained applause for its jaw-dropping action sequences and high-quality special effects, as well as for its predominantly non-white cast. A talented group of actors including Bobby Hosea, Gina Torres, Steve James, Wendy Raquel Robinson, and Christopher M. Brown made up the stellar supporting cast.

An Unexpected Shift

Every beautiful symphony must eventually reach its finale, and so it was with M.A.N.T.I.S. Despite the TV movie’s popularity, the network decided to revamp the series drastically. This transformation proved disastrous – akin to ruining a perfect yacht.

The big question remains: what exactly happened to cause such drastic changes? That, dear readers, is a tale for another day. The key takeaway is remembering how M.A.N.T.I.S., in its original format, broke the mold and set new standards. This memory is why the series should be remembered and celebrated. Keep your eyes on this space for more stories from ‘Gone But Not Forgotten.’

Today, we may look back in appreciation of M.A.N.T.I.S, a show that was beautifully crafted but then radically changed. Here’s to retelling the stories that history may have tossed aside, but we refuse to forget.

For more details, visit Project Casting Blog on https://www.projectcasting.com/blog/news/unraveling-the-history-behind-m-a-n-t-i-s-the-90s-superhero-show/

Channing Tatum’s Audacious Journey in Hollywood

Chilled Out Channing Leads the Way

Actor Channing Tatum has always been cool and daring in his choice of roles. Sure, you remember him from films like Magic Mike and The Lost City, right? But, there’s so much more! Tatum loves to surprise us with quirky roles and fun on-screen moments. Let’s dive in deep to look at his unconventional roles and cameos in various films.

Brave Brad Pitt Encounter in Bullet Train

Tatum was a guest on The Kelly Clarkson Show where he shared fascinating stories about his roles. One of these was his short but unforgettable role in the movie Bullet Train. In this flick, our man plays a passenger who ends up in a comical situation where he has to assist Brad Pitt’s character.

Tatum chuckles as he recalls, “Being in a pretty awkward scene with Brad Pitt in Bullet Train was just so different. I think I even made him unsure at one point, it was exciting. Asking myself, did I step over the line? Well, sorry if it appeared that way.” Sure, it’s all in good fun, and this instance only goes to show how fearless Tatum is with his roles.

Freaky Role in This Is the End

When it comes to Tatum’s daring cameos, we can’t forget his earth-shattering role in the movie This Is the End. In this comedy from 2013, Tatum takes bold to a whole new level. He plays himself, but with a twist that will make your jaw drop. He appears in a scene where he’s completely naked and tied to a leash, causing movie buffs to gasp in disbelief. For all his bold screen moments, this appearance is by far the most jaw-dropping.

Never Ceasing to Surprise Us

Channing Tatum isn’t the one to play safe. The actor is always ready to try new things and impress us with different characters and daring roles. He’s always up to something unexpected, leaving us wondering what his next move might be.

Going Beyond Film Norms

Tatum’s roles in movies like Bullet Train and This Is the End demonstrate his desire to go beyond the ordinary. Whether he’s busting moves in Step Up, stealing the show in Magic Mike, or producing zany scenes, Tatum always leaves an unforgettable mark.

His journey clearly shows that he refuses to conform to Hollywood’s standard norms. And who can blame him? His brave performances and comical off-screen stories only make us love him more.

What’s Next For Tatum?

Channing Tatum is always up for a challenge, always surprising us. So what’s next for our favourite actor? We can’t wait for his next stellar lead role or his next daredevil cameo. And he’s not the one to disappoint.

If you want to check out his brash cameos, watch Bullet Train and This Is the End. They’re up for streaming on Prime Video and Max.

In the end, Channing Tatum continues to turn heads, unveil surprises, and keep us hooked. Who knows where his incredible artistic journey will take him next? His career so far shows that the sky’s the limit for Tatum, and we can’t wait to see where he’ll take us next. Here’s to the exciting ride ahead!

For more details, visit Project Casting Blog on https://www.projectcasting.com/blog/news/channing-tatum-talks-about-his-most-bold-on-screen-moments/

NY Mets Boost Pitching Squad with Promotions of Butto and Scott

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Mets Reinforce Pitching Department

The New York Mets, wracked by recent pitching dilemmas, have called up right-handed pitchers Jose Butto and Christian Scott to fortify their floundering bullpen. These minor-league athletes have been brought on board to help stem the tide of runs conceded in late games.

In recent days, the Triple-A recruits have slipped late in games. Tyler Jay, a left-handed pitcher, nearly squandered a substantial six-run lead in Monday’s game against Washington Nationals. Consequently, this situation pressured the Mets into repeatedly overusing right-hander Reed Garrett, who painstakingly warmed up twice during the game.

Change in Tactics for Butto

Butto, known more as a starter, will be adapted to mop-up duty in the bullpen. The Mets haven’t strayed from viewing him as a starter in the long run, but they plan to leverage his previous stints in relief to their advantage.

Mets’ manager Carlos Mendoza expressed confidence in Butto’s ability, albeit with a cautionary note concerning his readiness. He stressed the importance of ample time for Butto to prepare, given his new role in the bullpen. The pitcher too echoed this sentiment, highlighting the challenge of flexibility in the bullpen.

To ensure optimal performance, the Mets plan to regulate his innings and workload closely. The newly set guidelines prohibit Butto from pitching on consecutive days and restrict him from throwing over 100 pitches within a span of five to six days.

Adaptable Role for Butto

Adrian Houser, who’s been playing in long-relief since May, has met a significant team need. However, with the Mets down one man due to Edwin Diaz’s suspension, they’re looking for another player to step up. While Butto will not solely serve as a long reliever, Mendoza is open to utilizing him in one-inning stints if necessary.

Butto recorded a commendable 1-3 and a 3.08 ERA in his seven previous big league starts earlier this season. Alongside this, he stands at a respectable 5-2 with a 3.05 ERA for his eight starts with Triple-A Syracuse.

Scott’s Debut on the Horizon

Christian Scott is expected to be officially inducted into the team on Wednesday when he takes the mound against the Nationals. The Mets plan to be judicious with Scott’s innings, aware of the fact that the 25-year-old has never exceeded 90 innings in a single season.

While the Mets are cautious, Scott is eagerly looking forward to demonstrating his improvements gleaned from Syracuse. He’s been working on his off-speed pitches, high-zone heaters and consistent performance against both right and left-handers.

Updates from the Treatment Room

J.D. Martinez had to withdraw from Tuesday’s lineup due to a sore left ankle. Luis Torrens took over as the designated hitter. For precautionary reasons, Brandon Nimmo was excluded from the game for the second consecutive day.

Recovering Right-hander Sean-Reid Foley, suffering from a right shoulder impingement, is slated to start a catch practice from Wednesday. After receiving a cortisone shot last week, he has been waiting for the inflammation to decrease before beginning his throwing program.

Shintaro Fujinami, another right-hander recovering from a shoulder strain, might be considered for the Mets’ bullpen now that he is back to fitness. At present, Fujinami is on a rehab assignment with Double-A, Binghamton.

Sproat Promising Baseball Future

In other Mets news, the right-handed pitcher Brandon Sproat was nominated for the 2024 All-Star Futures Game. The second-round draft pick from the University of Florida last year displayed his mettle by achieving a remarkable 5-1 with a 1.61 ERA in 13 games between High-A and Double-A. He will join other top talent from NL clubs in a seven-inning showcase at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas on Sunday, July 14.

Commanders Eyeing College Football Elite Kelvin Banks Jr. for 2025 Draft

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Key Takeaways:

* The Washington Commanders are scouting Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. for the 2025 draft.
* Banks is considered one of college football’s top prospects.
* This recruitment could help strengthen the Commanders’ offensive capabilities.
* Commanders’ current options at left tackle include Cornelius Lucas, Brandon Coleman, and Trent Scott.

Article

As the Washington Commanders gear up for the 2024 season, they face the pressing issue of fortifying their offensive tackle. More specifically, they need to secure the quarterback’s blind side, and that’s where the attention turns towards the exceptional Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas offensive tackle.

Scouting Prospects on the Field

ESPN’s Matt Miller spots a potential solution for the Commanders. In his 2025 mock draft released on July 2, he placed Banks Jr. as the team’s overall fifth pick. If the draft were happening immediately, the Commanders would definitely be looking for a reliable left tackle and an edge rusher, notes Miller.

The move is significant considering the need to guard quarterback Jayden Daniels better. After allowing a whopping 65 sacks last season, Washington knows some smart choices are in order. Banks represents the perfect left tackle with his solid 324-pound frame. What’s even more impressive is his record of conceding just two sacks in a two-season start for the Longhorns – promising news for the Washington Commanders.

Kelvin Banks Jr. – A Rising Star

Banks’ entry to the NFL draft is no surprise. He’s been tipped for a first-round pick since his senior season at Summer Creek High School in Houston. In 2021, he scooped up the Class 6A-District 21 Offensive MVP, almost unheard of for an offensive lineman.

As per Gabe Brooks, 247Sports recruiting analyst, Banks’ versatility provides excellent roster value. The 6-foot-4, 324-pounder begun at left tackle as a true freshman and hasn’t looked back. He’s marked 27 consecutive games and twice taken All-Big 12 selection. Not to mention, Banks played a pivotal role in the 2023 team’s College Football Playoff debut.

The Current Lineup at Washington

The Commanders’ current lineup includes Cornelius Lucas, rookie Brandon Coleman and Trent Scott. Lucas, a longstanding player, has started 37 of his 49 career games since 2020. Scott, on the other hand, has started 22 games across six seasons for different teams, including two for the Commanders in 2023. The latest addition, Coleman, is a 6-foot-4, 313-pound player picked in the third round from TCU in 2024.

The pressure is intense for the team after allowing a franchise-high 65 sacks last season. ESPN’s John Keim reported that the team has continued to make changes to its line following the disaster. Tackling these issues in training camp seems to be their best bet.

As anticipation for the 2025 draft builds, eyes are on the Washington Commanders. Tracking who will protect their prized quarterback Jayden Daniels remains one of the biggest questions. If they play their 2025 draft card right, they could gain a strong asset in Kelvin Banks Jr., potentially transforming their offensive tackle performance significantly.