From monkey elixir to fentanyl: Tyler Skaggs’s death is merely a chapter in baseball’s 136-year drug fix

Zhi Dong Zhang, a key figure on the Justice Department's most-wanted list for his role in fentanyl production, has been captured in Cuba after a daring escape from house arrest in Mexico. This development is significant as it highlights international cooperation in combating drug trafficking and may lead to further actions against the fentanyl crisis affecting many communities.

Toronto's rookie sensation Trey Yesavage has been named the starting pitcher for the Blue Jays as they kick off the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers this Friday at Rogers Centre. This is a significant moment not just for Yesavage, but for the entire team and its fans, as they look to secure a championship title.

Premier Doug Ford is optimistic about the Toronto Blue Jays' chances in the World Series, predicting they will come out on top. He plans to enjoy the games from the comfort of his 'man cave' at home, especially considering the exorbitant ticket prices. This sentiment reflects a growing excitement among fans and highlights the challenges of attending live sports events.

Tom Homan, President Trump's border czar, is calling for a serious debate on the fentanyl crisis, likening it to a 'weapon of mass destruction.' This urgent plea highlights the escalating issue of fentanyl in the U.S., which has devastating effects on communities and public health. Homan's remarks aim to spur action from Washington, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive strategy to combat this growing threat.

Cuba has successfully captured Zhi Dong Zhang, an alleged Chinese fentanyl kingpin who was wanted by both the US and Mexico. This arrest is significant as it highlights international cooperation in combating drug trafficking, particularly the fentanyl crisis that has affected many countries. Zhang had previously evaded capture in Mexico, making this development a crucial step in addressing the ongoing challenges posed by synthetic opioids.

Toronto police are alerting Blue Jays fans to be wary of counterfeit World Series tickets as scammers are trying to take advantage of the high demand. This warning is crucial for fans who want to enjoy the excitement of the playoffs without falling victim to fraud.

Excitement is building in Ontario as cities in the Greater Toronto Area prepare to host free viewing parties for the Blue Jays' World Series run. This initiative not only brings fans together to celebrate their team but also fosters a sense of community and local pride. It's a great opportunity for fans to enjoy the game in a lively atmosphere, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved.

MLB star Mike Trout recently testified in a lawsuit concerning the tragic overdose death of his teammate Tyler Skaggs. Trout expressed his deep affection for Skaggs, describing him as a brother, and stated that he had not noticed any signs of drug use prior to Skaggs' passing. The lawsuit, filed by Skaggs' family against the Los Angeles Angels, seeks $118 million, highlighting the serious issues surrounding drug use in sports and the responsibilities of teams towards their players. This case not only sheds light on the personal loss felt by teammates but also raises important questions about player welfare and accountability in professional sports.

In a recent interview with FRANCE 24, analyst Melinda Haring highlighted Donald Trump's frustration with Vladimir Putin, stating that Trump feels deceived after supporting him politically. Haring emphasized that ongoing sanctions are crucial in undermining Russia's military efforts, urging the EU and US to maintain pressure. This situation is significant as it reflects the shifting dynamics in US-Russia relations and Trump's evolving stance, which could impact future political strategies and international alliances.

The Europa League matches are heating up with Nottingham Forest facing Porto and Celtic taking on Sturm Graz. Fans are eagerly following the live updates as teams push for crucial goals. This tournament is significant as it showcases some of Europe's top clubs competing for glory, and the excitement builds with each match, making it a must-watch for football enthusiasts.

The White House has indicated that a summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin is still a possibility, despite Trump recently postponing the meeting. This development is significant as it reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts and the complexities of US-Russia relations, which have been under scrutiny. The potential for dialogue could pave the way for addressing various geopolitical issues, making it a topic of interest for international observers.

The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Russia's largest oil producers, targeting a critical sector of its economy during a particularly vulnerable period. This move is significant as it aims to weaken Russia's economic stability and reduce its ability to fund various activities, potentially altering the geopolitical landscape.

The search for the body of Colleen Walker-Craig, an Indigenous child who went missing in Bowraville 35 years ago, is set to resume as police continue to investigate this infamous cold case. This development is significant as it highlights ongoing efforts to seek justice for missing persons and the importance of addressing historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities in Australia.

The UK Prime Minister has announced that a migrant who was recently removed from the country will be fast-tracked for return to France. This decision follows the implementation of the 'one in, one out' scheme, which aims to manage migration effectively. This move is significant as it highlights ongoing discussions around immigration policies and the complexities involved in managing migrant flows between countries.