The New York Mets have announced the signing of Jackie Bradley Jr., the former South Carolina Gamecock standout, in a move that adds veteran depth and defensive prowess to their outfield. Bradley, who has enjoyed a notable career in Major League Baseball (MLB), will bring his experience and skills to the Mets, bolstering their roster as they aim for a strong finish to the season.

A Gamecock Legend

Before making his mark in the MLB, Jackie Bradley Jr. was a key player for the University of South Carolina Gamecocks. His tenure with the Gamecocks was nothing short of extraordinary. Bradley played a pivotal role in leading South Carolina to back-to-back NCAA College World Series championships in 2010 and 2011. His exceptional performance earned him the Most Outstanding Player award in the 2010 College World Series.

His defensive brilliance and clutch hitting marked Bradley’s time at South Carolina. Bradley’s ability to cover ground in center field and make tough catches look routine made him a fan favorite and a standout performer at the collegiate level.

MLB Career Highlights

After being drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the first round of the 2011 MLB Draft, Bradley ascended through the minor leagues, making his MLB debut in 2013. Throughout his career, he has been known for his exceptional defensive skills, earning a Gold Glove Award in 2018. Bradley’s career highlights also include:

● Gold Glove Award: 2018

● All-Star Selection: 2016

● American League Championship Series MVP: 2018

With a career batting average of .227, 104 home runs, and 434 RBIs as of the end of the 2023 season, Bradley’s offensive contributions have been solid, particularly in clutch situations.

New Contract Details

Bradley’s contract with the Mets is a one-year deal worth $3.5 million, with performance incentives that could increase its value. The Mets, in the thick of the playoff race, are looking to Bradley to provide veteran leadership and top-tier defense in the outfield. His experience and track record of success in pressure situations make him a valuable addition to the team.

A Return to Form

After spending the 2023 season with the Kansas City Royals, where he struggled at the plate but continued to shine defensively, Bradley is eager for a fresh start with the Mets. Known for his work ethic and positive clubhouse presence, he is expected to be a mentor to younger players while also contributing on the field.

Jackie Bradley Jr.’s signing with the New York Mets brings a former South Carolina Gamecock hero back into the spotlight. His combination of defensive excellence, playoff experience, and leadership qualities will be crucial for the Mets as they navigate the latter part of the season. Mets fans can look forward to seeing one of baseball’s premier defensive outfielders patrolling center field and making a positive impact both on and off the field.

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Aaliyah Chavez, iESPNW #1 of the 2025 class has narrowed her college search down to six schools, South Carolina, LSU, Texas, Texas Tech, Oklahoma, and UCLA. This afternoon Chavez released a statment via X relaying her appreciation for the game of basketball and how its aided her growth from a young girl with big dreams to a young woman on the cusp of seeing a childhood dream come true.

This past weekend marked the anual flag ship event for girls grass roots hoops,Nike Nationals. Chavez who competes with Team CyFair Eliete was crowned the Nike Nationals champions for the third time in program history after defeating MW Premier, 68-55. Chavez leads all scorers on theNike EYBL circuit with 23.7 points, 4.5 assists and 4.2 rebounds.

The 5-foot-11 guard had some visotors this weekend, South Carolina HC Dawn Staley and LSU HC Kim Mulkey; Chavez put on a stellar performance in front of Staley scoring 35 points (11-23) FG (9-18) 3pt FG. Thus far the Lubbock (Texas) native. has only visited LSU and Texas Tech; however she plans to schedule upcoming visits to the the teams in her top 6.

In an article with On3, Chavez released a statement about her recruitment with South Carolina.

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A beachgoer suffered a “likely shark bite” on Hilton Head Island Monday — marking a rare shark encounter on the South Carolina shore.

The woman was chomped on while swimming in the waters at the Sea Pines Resort, a sprawling hotel along the island’s south shore, News 3 reported.

She was able to escape the water on her own and was bleeding, but had the wound under control.

Fortunately, the “likely shark bite” wasn’t severe enough for her to be rushed to the hospital. Whether she went on her own after the fact is not known.

Lifeguards shut down the beach for 30 minutes until the waters were determined to be safe.

The incident marks the first official shark bite on the island for the year — but Shore Beach Services said “there was another possible shark bite early this year that wasn’t confirmed.”

Shark attacks on Hilton Head are rare, but not uncommon.

Last year, a 60-year-old man was standing in waist-deep water on the very same beach when a shark bit his foot, leaving him with gruesome, but not life-threatening injuries.

In 2021, a lifeguard was checking water conditions when a shark bit him on the chest. He also survived the encounter.

Shark experts told The Post earlier this month that shark encounters are the “new norm” thanks to a population boom in the beast’s favorite meals.

The apex predators do not target humans, however, and most bites are accidental and a result of swimmers getting in the way of a feeding frenzy.