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Kingston Wildfire Surges Past 5,000 hectares in N.L.

Kingston wildfire in NL and Labrador grows beyond 5,000 hectares, threatening Ochre Pit Cove. Evacuations expand as firefighting crews intensify efforts.

Blaze Intensifies Across Avalon Peninsula

After a weekend of extreme heat and strong winds, the Kingston wildfire in Newfoundland and Labrador has expanded to over 5,000 hectares. Premier John Hogan confirmed in a Sunday 5 p.m. briefing that projections indicate the fire could reach Ochre Pit Cove by Sunday evening.

Structures Damaged in Multiple Communities

Reports confirm additional structures were impacted Saturday and Sunday in Adam’s Cove, Kingston, and Western Bay. Due to smoke and dangerous conditions, officials have not yet verified which buildings were destroyed.

Firefighting Assets Face Delays

Efforts to control the blaze have been hindered by equipment shortages. Two Quebec water bombers were grounded for maintenance, while two from Ontario were delayed by local fire demands. Reinforcements include a high-capacity helicopter from Manitoba, two Quebec water bombers, and a bird dog plane that arrived Saturday.

Full Provincial Fleet in Action

By Sunday evening, Newfoundland and Labrador’s entire water bomber fleet was deployed to the fire’s north end. Additional support includes one bird dog aircraft, five helicopters, two Coast Guard helicopters, and 50 ground crew members. Premier Hogan stressed that firefighter safety remains the top priority.

Regional State of Emergency Declared

A regional state of emergency was declared Saturday for the Bay de Verde peninsula, from Bristol’s Hope to Whiteway. This allows coordinated deployment of municipal and provincial resources. Residents are urged to be ready to evacuate at short notice.

Challenging Weather Conditions Persist

High winds of 30 km/h, with gusts up to 50 km/h, continue to complicate suppression efforts. Provincial fire duty officer Mark Lawlor warned that resources are stretched thin and urged residents to obey the province-wide fire ban. Fines for violations now range from $50,000 to $150,000, with possible jail time.

Expanding Evacuation Zones

Evacuation orders now include:

  • Small Point–Adam’s Cove–Blackhead–Broad Cove
  • Western Bay
  • Salmon Cove
  • Kingston
  • Perry’s Cove
  • Ochre Pit Cove
  • Burnt Point–Gull Island–Northern Bay

Advisories remain in effect for cabins along the Bay d’Espoir Highway, including Great Rattling Brook and Rushy Pond.

Other Wildfire Activity in Labrador

While a fire near Happy Valley–Goose Bay has been extinguished, crews are responding to another blaze 19 km south of the town. The Martin Lake fire remains out of control at 245 hectares, with suppression focused on its southwestern edge.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Wildfire Near Moncton Sparks Evacuation Readiness Alert

Wildfire north of Moncton prompts Maple Hills to prepare for possible evacuation; boil-water advisory issued amid firefighting efforts.

Wildfire Advances Toward Maple Hills

A rapidly spreading wildfire broke out Sunday north of Moncton, prompting the rural New Brunswick community of Maple Hills to warn residents to prepare for possible evacuation. The fire, spanning about 30 hectares near MacArthur Lane, drew firefighting teams from Moncton, Dieppe, and Riverview.

High-Risk Zones Mapped

According to a community update, areas most at risk are bounded by Cape Breton Road, Weisner Road, Elmwood Drive, and Roma Way. As of 10 p.m., no evacuation order had been issued, but residents were urged to pack personal items and ensure pets were ready to move.

Leadership Urges Preparedness

Mayor Erica Warren said the blaze remained out of control but was not currently moving toward homes. She added that the Department of Natural Resources was digging trenches to create fire breaks and slow its spread. The mayor praised first responders for swift action, noting conditions could be “a whole lot worse” without their efforts.

Public Safety Measures in Place

The City of Moncton issued a boil-water advisory for properties along Elmwood Drive, north of the Trans-Canada Highway, due to turbidity caused by high water demand for firefighting. The advisory covers Granite Drive, Royal Oaks subdivision, and civic addresses starting at 759 Elmwood Dr. Residents are advised to boil water for at least one minute before use. Irishtown Nature Park has been closed until further notice.

Community Response

The Moncton Firefighters Association urged the public to avoid the fire zone to allow emergency vehicle access. Local resident Renelle Lanteigne, who returned from Shediac to prepare her property, expressed concern for farms in the area. “People are starting to worry about evacuating their horses and cows,” she said.

Province Faces Multiple Fires

Elsewhere in New Brunswick, the Oldfield Road fire near Miramichi has forced the evacuation of three homes and a cottage, with 15 more on alert. That blaze spans about 340 hectares and remains beyond control, according to Natural Resources Minister John Herron. Access to all Crown land has been banned due to extreme fire conditions, marking the driest period in the province since records began in 1986.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Montreal Pride Weekend Unites Amid Colour and Controversy

Two Pride parades and a protest marked Montreal’s weekend, blending celebration of 2SLGBTQ+ rights with political tension and community unity.

Thousands Join Montreal’s Pride Celebrations

Montreal’s downtown streets came alive on Sunday, August 10, as two major Pride parades—Fierté Montréal and Wild Pride—drew thousands of participants. Both events showcased the diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community while highlighting its ongoing activism and resilience.

Two Parades, Two Visions

Fierté Montréal marched over two kilometres from Metcalfe Street to Atataken Street in the Village, beginning at 1 p.m. Wild Pride started an hour later at Place des Arts, moving toward Dorchester Square. While Fierté carried the theme “Blossom Here, Now!”, Wild Pride emphasized grassroots activism and independence from larger organizations.

Celebration Meets Activism

Fierté’s new board chair, Marlot Marleau, encouraged participants to wear bright colours as a symbol of love and freedom. Wild Pride co-organizer Shannon Thompson stressed that Pride should remain a platform for political expression, addressing both local and global issues impacting LGBTQIA+ communities.

Community Responds to Recent Disputes

This year’s events followed weeks of controversy over Fierté Montréal’s initial silence on the Israel–Gaza war, later replaced with a public condemnation of the violence. The organization briefly barred two Jewish 2SLGBTQ+ groups before reinstating them, leading to the resignation of board chair Bernard Truong.

Third March Ends in Confrontation

A separate anti-capitalist Rad Pride march on Saturday evening was halted by Montreal police shortly after it began. Organizers accused officers of using pepper spray and force, while police cited fireworks, property damage, and safety concerns. No arrests or injuries were reported.

A Weekend of Visibility and Dialogue

Nearly 50 years after Montreal’s first Pride celebrations, the city’s weekend events reflected both unity and division. For many, the parades were a reminder that Pride remains not only a celebration of identity but also a call for continued advocacy and understanding.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Dog Killed After Early Morning Altercation in Kitchener

Police are investigating a downtown Kitchener altercation that left a dog dead early Saturday. Witnesses urged to contact Waterloo police.

Early Morning Incident in Downtown Kitchener

An altercation in the early hours of Saturday left one dog dead in downtown Kitchener, prompting an investigation by the Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS). Officers were first called shortly before 5:00 a.m. to a bus stop near Charles Street South and Cedar Street East after reports of a disturbance involving multiple people.

Two Locations, One Tragic Outcome

Upon arrival, police found several people and an injured dog at the bus stop. A short time later, officers were directed to a second location near King Street East and Eby Street North, close to the Kitchener Market, where a deceased dog was discovered.

Possible Dog-on-Dog Attack Reported

Initial accounts provided to police suggest the incident may have begun as a confrontation between individuals, during which one dog attacked another. The exact cause of the fatal injuries is still under investigation, and no charges have been announced at this time.

Police Seek Public Assistance

The WRPS General Investigations Unit is leading the case and is asking for the public’s help. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the police non-emergency line or submit an anonymous tip to Waterloo Region Crime Stoppers.

Community Concerns and Animal Welfare

The incident has raised concerns about safety for both residents and pets in busy public areas. Authorities hope witness statements will clarify events and help prevent similar occurrences in the future.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Power Restored in NW London After Major Sunday Outage

Over 2,000 homes and businesses in northwest London, Ontario, have power restored after a heat wave and supply failure caused hours-long outage.

Heat Wave Triggers Electrical Failures

Northwest London, Ontario, endured hours without power on Sunday after extreme heat, with humidex readings near 40 °C, caused equipment to fail. The weather-related strain on the electrical grid coincided with a supply issue from Hydro One, compounding the outage’s impact.

Multiple Neighbourhoods Affected

More than 2,000 London Hydro customers in Masonville, Medway, Sunningdale, and surrounding areas were left without electricity. Businesses, including the Costco on Wonderland Road, relied on backup generators to maintain essential operations during the blackout.

Timeline of the Outage

The disruption began early Sunday afternoon and persisted for several hours. London Hydro reported that service was fully restored to most areas by shortly after 5 p.m., with intermittent earlier outages affecting as many as 6,000 customers in White Hills and Orchard Park.

Cause Behind the Blackout

London Hydro confirmed that a Hydro One delivery point failure was the main source of the outage, while the weekend’s extreme heat also caused equipment malfunctions. Hydro One crews worked on-site to address the issue while London Hydro rerouted power where possible.

Ongoing Heat Concerns

The outage came during the city’s fifth heat alert of the summer, issued Friday by Environment Canada and extended by the Middlesex-London Health Unit. Officials have warned residents to stay hydrated, seek cooler environments, and limit outdoor activity during peak temperatures.

Restoration Efforts and Future Preparedness

London Hydro continues to coordinate with Hydro One to monitor supply points and grid performance. Officials advise residents to check the utility’s outage map for real-time updates and to prepare for potential future weather-related service interruptions.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Kelowna Evacuees Return as Daves Creek Fire Contained

Firefighters contain Daves Creek wildfire east of Kelowna. Evacuees return home; three properties remain on alert as cause investigation continues.

Swift Containment Brings Relief

A 1.5-hectare wildfire east of Kelowna, B.C., forced the tactical evacuation of 25 properties on Sunday afternoon. The Daves Creek fire, discovered near Joe Rich and Goudie Road around 1:45 p.m. PT, was brought under control by 8 p.m., allowing most residents to return home the same evening.

Coordinated Emergency Response

B.C. Wildfire Service deployed three helicopters and three initial attack crews to the scene, supported by local firefighters, RCMP, and Joe Rich Fire Rescue. Their rapid intervention stabilized fire behaviour and prevented further spread.

Understanding the Tactical Evacuation

Officials used a “tactical evacuation,” a measure applied when crews believe they can soon contain the threat. Mike Walroth, Director of Protective Services for the Regional District of Central Okanagan, said the approach allows immediate removal of residents without a formal evacuation order during events expected to be quickly controlled.

Shelter and Support Services

Central Okanagan Emergency Operations directed evacuees to temporary reception centres at the Kelowna Salvation Army on Sutherland Avenue and the Joe Rich Community Hall on Highway 33. The facilities provided food, shelter, and information until residents were cleared to return.

Road Closures and Reopening

A 3.5-kilometre section of Highway 33, between Daves Road and Joe Rich Road, was closed for several hours due to fire activity. The route reopened Sunday evening after crews confirmed it was safe for travel.

Ongoing Monitoring

While most evacuees are back in their homes, three properties remain under evacuation alert as crews continue to patrol the area. The cause of the Daves Creek wildfire is under investigation by B.C. Wildfire Service.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Eastern Ontario Heat Wave to Grip Region Until Tuesday

Eastern Ontario faces extreme heat through Tuesday with highs up to 33°C and humidex near 40. Environment Canada issues fresh heat warning.

Prolonged Heat Wave Intensifies Across the Region

Eastern Ontario residents are facing another stretch of extreme summer heat, with Environment Canada warning that temperatures will remain in the low to mid-30s until at least Tuesday. Humidex values are forecast to make conditions feel closer to 40 °C, starting Saturday and lasting through the first half of next week.

Minimal Overnight Relief as Temperatures Stay High

Overnight lows are expected to hover between 19 °C and 23 °C, offering little opportunity for cooling. The heat wave marks the fourth official warning of the season for the Ottawa region, following one issued just two weeks ago under similar conditions.

Officials Urge Residents to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat

Health experts caution that anyone can be affected by the prolonged high temperatures, with risks including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms may include flushed skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or loss of consciousness.

Practical Measures to Beat the Heat

Health Canada recommends staying indoors during peak afternoon hours, keeping hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities in direct sunlight, and using air-conditioned spaces where possible. Preparing no-cook meals and checking in on vulnerable neighbours are also encouraged.

Emergency Steps for Heat-Related Illness

Authorities advise that anyone showing signs of heat stroke should seek immediate medical attention by calling 911. Ottawa has published maps showing public cooling centres and other accessible air-conditioned facilities.

Cooler Weather Expected Mid-Week

Meteorologists forecast a break in the oppressive heat by midweek as a cold front moves in, bringing more seasonable temperatures and relief from the humidity.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Canada Updates U.K. Travel Advisory on Banned Goods

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Canadian travelers to the U.K. are warned against carrying banned items, including meat, dairy, knives, and pepper spray, amid updated government rules.

Ottawa Tightens Guidance for Travelers Heading to the U.K.

The Government of Canada has updated its official travel advisory for the United Kingdom, cautioning citizens about a growing list of banned and restricted goods. The revision, posted on August 6, 2025, adds fresh detail to the “Laws and Culture” section of the advisory and reflects recent U.K. enforcement measures.

Strong Ties, Heightened Warnings

Canada and the U.K. remain close allies, sharing deep historical, political, and cultural connections — including a sovereign, King Charles III. Yet, Ottawa’s advisory continues to urge Canadians to “exercise a high degree of caution” when visiting, citing the ongoing threat of terrorism in Europe and previous attacks on U.K. soil.

New Focus on Prohibited Items

The latest update zeroes in on three major categories of items prohibited for entry into the U.K.:

  • Meat and dairy products – Following outbreaks of Foot-and-Mouth Disease in Europe, the U.K. has banned imports of all E.U.-sourced meat and cheese. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency warns that while the disease is rare in humans, it severely impacts livestock health.
  • Certain types of knives – Items such as butterfly knives, stealth knives, belt buckle knives, and swords are outlawed. Even legal blades cannot be carried without a “good reason,” such as work or religious purposes.
  • Pepper spray – Self-defense sprays, including pepper spray and CS gas, are prohibited for civilian use in the U.K., with possession leading to serious penalties.

Enforcement and Penalties

The U.K. maintains strict customs screening, aided by next-generation security scanners installed at airports in 2024. Travelers found with banned items risk seizure of goods, heavy fines, or prison sentences of up to four years, depending on the offense.

Additional Restricted Goods

Beyond the top three categories, U.K. customs laws also bar firearms, explosives, controlled drugs, endangered animal products, rough diamonds, pirated media, and obscene publications. Officials stress that ignorance of the law is not a defense at the border.

Preparing for a Safe Trip

Canadians planning to visit the U.K. are urged to review the full list of prohibited items on both the Canadian and U.K. government websites before departure. Officials say compliance not only avoids legal trouble but also helps protect public safety, animal health, and the environment.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Air Canada Faces Flight Attendant Protest at Major Hubs

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Air Canada flights may face August 11 delays as attendants protest at Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary airports over pay and working conditions.

Air Canada Braces for August 11 Protest Impact at Key Airports

Air Canada passengers could experience delays and schedule changes on Monday, August 11, 2025, as flight attendants stage coordinated protests at four of the airline’s busiest hubs: Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing 10,000 attendants, says the action is part of a national push for fair pay and improved working conditions.

 

Push for Pay on All Hours Worked

At the centre of the dispute is the union’s demand that attendants be paid for all hours worked — including boarding, safety checks, and turnaround times — not just in-flight hours. CUPE has criticized what it calls “poverty wages” that lag behind Canada’s 2025 cost of living.

“Flight attendants from coast to coast are coming together to demand respect and a fair contract,” said Wesley Lesosky, president of CUPE’s Air Canada component.

 

Strategic Locations Chosen for Maximum Effect

The protests target Toronto Pearson, Montréal–Trudeau, Vancouver International, and Calgary International — the backbone of Air Canada’s domestic and international operations. Disruptions at these hubs could trigger a ripple effect across routes to the U.S., Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean.

 

Airline Operations and Passenger Volumes

Air Canada serves over 220 destinations in 47 countries and carried 12 million passengers in the second quarter of 2025. While the airline posted a net profit of C$186 million last quarter, CUPE argues that frontline staff have not seen wage growth matching revenue gains.

 

Protest Timings Across Canada

Union members plan to rally during peak travel hours to ensure visibility:

  • Montreal & Toronto: 1 p.m. ET
  • Vancouver: 10 a.m. PT
  • Calgary: 11 a.m. MDT

The demonstrations are expected to be peaceful but highly visible to passengers.

 

Travel Advisory for Passengers

Air Canada has not confirmed mass cancellations but urges passengers to check flight status before leaving for the airport. Travel experts recommend arriving early, preparing for possible gate changes, and keeping essentials like chargers, snacks, and medications handy.

While the protests are not an official strike, their scale and location mean travellers could face significant operational challenges throughout the day.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

 

Banff to Whistler: Scenic Tour Delivers Jaw-Dropping Moments

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Travel host David Whitehill explores Canada’s west coast with Scenic, uncovering breathtaking landscapes from Banff to Whistler.

Travel Host Stunned by Canada’s Scenic Wonders

Renowned Australian travel host David Whitehill has described his recent journey through Canada’s west coast as an experience “on another level,” highlighting the country’s dramatic landscapes, rich wildlife, and luxury hospitality. The trip, hosted by Scenic, combined iconic destinations with tailored adventures, leaving the seasoned traveller in awe.

A Journey from City Shores to Mountain Peaks

The adventure began in Vancouver, where oceanfront city life meets towering coastal mountains. From there, the group travelled inland toward the Canadian Rockies, home to Banff National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its emerald lakes and rugged peaks.

Staying in a ‘Castle in the Rockies’

In Banff, Whitehill stayed at the Fairmont Banff Springs, the historic chateau-style hotel often called “The Castle in the Rockies.” The property’s grandeur, coupled with its storied history, set the tone for a blend of comfort and wilderness exploration.

Custom Experiences in the Great Outdoors

Scenic’s “Freechoice” excursions allowed guests to tailor their daily itineraries — from traversing the Athabasca Glacier in an Ice Explorer vehicle to motorcycle rides through Jasper National Park, or helicopter flights over Whistler’s snowy ranges. Each option, Whitehill noted, revealed a new dimension of Canada’s vast beauty.

The World’s Most Scenic Drive

Travelling along the Icefields Parkway, connecting Lake Louise to Jasper, offered panoramic views of glacier-fed lakes, snow-covered mountains, and wildlife including bears and moose. Whitehill described the route as “an open-air gallery” of nature’s finest work.

Luxury and Wilderness in Harmony

The tour balanced rugged exploration with refined dining and intimate group sizes. Guests could enjoy Canadian wine and chef-prepared meals after a day of outdoor adventure, ensuring comfort without sacrificing authenticity.

Looking Beyond the Rockies

For those eager to extend the journey, Scenic offers an optional cruise from Vancouver through the Inside Passage to Glacier Bay — a stretch of coastline celebrated for its dramatic fjords and calving glaciers. Whitehill hinted that it’s already on his personal travel list.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Cam Ward Impresses in Titans’ Pre-Season Debut

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Rookie QB Cam Ward shows promise in his first NFL pre-season game, sparking optimism for the Tennessee Titans despite a 29-7 loss to Tampa Bay.

Strong Start for No. 1 Draft Pick

Tennessee Titans rookie quarterback Cam Ward made a confident first impression during his pre-season debut on Sunday, giving fans a glimpse of the skills that made him the NFL’s top overall pick in 2025. Playing against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Ward demonstrated poise and accuracy despite the team’s 29-7 defeat.

Key Moments on the Field

After missing his first two passes, Ward completed five of his next six attempts for 67 yards. He led an 11-play, 65-yard drive that consumed over six minutes, showing composure in the pocket and a growing connection with veteran wide receiver Calvin Ridley, who caught three passes for 50 yards.

Coaching Perspective

Head coach Brian Callahan described the performance as “encouraging and productive” while noting areas for improvement, such as quicker release times and enhanced timing. “It was a good start for him,” Callahan said, emphasizing that Ward’s development will be a gradual process.

Offensive Line Upgrades Pay Off

One of the most promising signs for Tennessee was the improved protection from its rebuilt offensive line. With veteran additions like Dan Moore Jr. at left tackle and Kevin Zeitler at right guard, Ward enjoyed more time in the pocket compared to the Titans’ 2024 season, when they allowed 52 sacks.

Injury Concerns Emerge

Running back Tyjae Spears suffered an ankle injury in the second quarter and is expected to miss several weeks. Centre Lloyd Cushenberry III is slated to return to practice after recovering from an Achilles injury, while defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat will need a week to heal from a tonsillectomy.

Defensive Challenges Continue

The Titans’ defense struggled against the run, surrendering 178 rushing yards to Tampa Bay. With Sweat and star lineman Jeffery Simmons sidelined, opponents averaged 4.3 yards per carry — a troubling sign given Tennessee’s 26th-place run defense ranking last season.

Next Steps on the Road

The Titans will now head to Georgia for joint practices with the Atlanta Falcons on Tuesday and Wednesday, followed by their next pre-season matchup on Friday night. Coaches hope to build on Ward’s promising start while addressing defensive lapses and injury setbacks.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Phillies Sweep Rangers as MLB Weekend Delivers Drama

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Phillies finish sweep of Rangers; MLB weekend sees walk-offs, milestones, and standout performances across key matchups.

Phillies Seal Sweep in Arlington

The Philadelphia Phillies wrapped up a three-game sweep of the Texas Rangers on Sunday with a 4-2 victory at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. Zack Wheeler’s seven strikeouts over five innings and a clutch solo homer from Edmundo Sosa turned an early deficit into a decisive series win.

Key Plays Shift Momentum

Trailing 2-0 after Joc Pederson’s first-inning homer, the Phillies responded with Bryce Harper’s RBI double in the fourth, Sosa’s game-tying shot in the fifth, and Weston Wilson’s go-ahead RBI single moments later. Brandon Marsh added insurance in the ninth before closer Jhoan Duran earned his 20th save.

Standouts Across the League

Elsewhere, the Atlanta Braves defeated the Miami Marlins 7-1, highlighted by home runs from Matt Olson, Marcell Ozuna, and Michael Harris II. Detroit’s Kerry Carpenter powered the Tigers to a 9-5 win over the Los Angeles Angels with a three-run homer.

Walk-Offs and Late-Game Surprises

In Minneapolis, Luke Keaschall delivered a two-run, 11th-inning walk-off homer as the Twins beat the Royals 5-3. Milwaukee’s Isaac Collins stunned the Mets with a solo walk-off blast in the ninth, extending the Brewers’ winning streak to nine games.

Historic Moments on the Field

Houston’s Jose Altuve hit his 250th career home run as the Astros topped the Yankees 7-1. In San Francisco, Nationals pitcher MacKenzie Gore spoiled Justin Verlander’s 3,500th career strikeout by leading Washington to an 8-0 shutout of the Giants.

Canadian Connection

Canadian fans saw a highlight in Los Angeles, where the Toronto Blue Jays avoided a sweep against the Dodgers. Ernie Clement’s ninth-inning homer sealed a 5-4 win, with rookie Mason Fluharty earning his first career save by striking out Shohei Ohtani in a tense final frame.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire