In this week’s review, a week of thought provoking statements. Major League Soccer avoids a lockout while Major League Baseball’s squabbling continues. Remembering legendary Cincinnati Bengals player Ken Riley and more.

The sports world speaks out about racial injustices

Seemingly everyone has something to say about recent protests over racial injustice. From clergy to companies and retired military officials. Last Monday, every sports talk show I listened to led off with a response to it. Part of a litany of responses from various groups in the sports world. With athletes, coaches, teams and leagues and commissioners giving statements.

Some statements drew controversy and others drew praise. Locally, the Cincinnati Reds provided the most interesting responses. The Reds were the among the last MLB teams to issue a response. However, their response was among the longest of any team. Featuring both a statement from the team and one from African American top prospect Hunter Greene. Joey Votto also had a deep reflection through a Cincinnati Enquirer op-ed. Acknowledging the role white privilege has played in his life.

Many have criticized Major League Baseball as slow to respond. Personally, I find a slow yet thoughtful response better than none at all. Ultimately, there’s the old saying that actions are louder than words. Statements wont solve the inequities prompting these protests. Constructive actions that work towards ending the inequities will.

FC Cincinnati reporter detained while covering protests

Cincinnati Enquirer FC Cincinnati beat writer Patrick Brennan was detained last Monday; while covering protests in Cincinnati. He was released that same evening without being charged. His arrest prompted apologies from the Cincinnati Police Department and Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley. Now you may be wondering why a soccer reporter was covering a protest. Due to COVID-19, sports journalists have been added to different beats at several news outlets.

Brennan’s arrest was part of a disturbing trend seen in recent days. Several journalists were roughed up and even targeted by police in several cities. An Australian TV cameraman and reporter were attacked by police while covering protests in Washington D.C. In Louisville, a WAVE-TV news crew was shot at with pepper balls by an officer. While others were subject to verbal abuse from officers and even some protesters.

MLS ratifies new CBA while MLB in-fighting continues

MLB’s increasingly tone-deaf fight between players and owners drags on. Last week, the owners rejected the players proposal for a 114 game season. Meanwhile, Major League Soccer came to terms to avoid a lockout. Ratifying a collective bargaining agreement that will last through the 2025 season. MLS owners and players agreed to this new CBA’s framework prior to the start of this season. The new CBA clears a path for the MLS to potentially resume play this July. Through a neutral site tournament in Orlando, FL.

Remembering Cincinnati Bengals legend Ken Riley

Ken “The Rattler” Riley died a heart attack on Sunday at age 72. Riley was a star Cincinnati Bengals defensive back for 15 seasons. Spending his entire NFL playing career with Cincinnati from 1969-1983. Contributing to their first playoff qualifying team in 1970. Along with the Bengals first AFC title and Super Bowl appearance.

Riley set three Bengals franchise records that still stand today. Through his 65 career interceptions for 596 yards and five touchdowns. Riley ranks fifth in the NFL in career interceptions. His “rattler” nickname was a tribute to his collegiate Alma mater Florida A&M. Post-retirement, Riley was Florida A&M’s head football coach and athletic director.

Wright State University cuts three athletic programs

Wright State University joined a growing list of schools last week. Being among several dropping some athletic programs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Last Wednesday, the Dayton university announced they’re dropping softball. Along with their men’s and women’s tennis programs. According to a Wright State public statement, the move affects 39 student-athletes and six coaches.