Welcome to The Sporting Tribune Podcast Network and a new episode of The Sporting Tribune Today, our every-weekday show on sports in Southern California, Las Vegas and Hawaii. On today’s episode of The Sporting Tribune Today, Grant Mona connects two vibrant corners of the sports world — Dodgers Spring Training vibes with voices from camp, and Clippers All-Star Weekend reactions and practice insights as Kawhi Leonard leads the way.
Segment One — Dodgers Spring Training with Roberts, Friedman, Díaz & Betts
Grant opens with the latest from Dodgers Spring Training at Camelback Ranch, where Dave Roberts, Andrew Friedman, Edwin Díaz, and Mookie Betts have been setting the tone for the 2026 season. Manager Dave Roberts emphasized focus, consistency, and “looking forward” as the squad kicked off full-squad workouts, encouraging the group to ignore external expectations and lean into daily preparation. Roberts’ message included contributions from Díaz, Kyle Tucker, Miguel Rojas and others, highlighting the depth and experience assembled around Los Angeles’ championship core.
Veteran closer Edwin Díaz, newly signed to anchor the bullpen, has talked openly about choosing the Dodgers because of their winning culture and recent World Series success, and Betts has embraced his role in camp with an eye toward another postseason run. The spring atmosphere — fueled by big names like Shohei Ohtani and fans flocking to workouts — reflects high expectations for a club chasing another title.
Segment Two — Kawhi, Clippers Practice & All-Star Buzz
In the second segment, Grant turns to the hardwood as he breaks down Kawhi Leonard’s post–All-Star Weekend perspective and Clippers practice comments from Ty Lue, Isaiah Jackson, and Bennedict Mathurin. Leonard, who starred during the All-Star festivities — including a 31-point outing highlighted by his clutch play — has embraced the spotlight and the new format, saying he’s “up for whatever grabs the attention of the consumer.” His continued elite production this season — with averages near the top of the league in scoring and impact — has made him one of the most talked-about players in a lopsided season for Clippers basketball.
Head coach Ty Lue discussed the team’s evolving identity and how leaders like Kawhi help set practice standards, while young pieces like Isaiah Jackson and Bennedict Mathurin shared enthusiasm about growth, defensive focus, and building chemistry as the Clippers chase consistency in a competitive Western Conference. The podcast can be heard every day on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, TuneIn and wherever you get your podcast and every weekday on the radio on KIRN 670 AM and 95.5 FMHD3 in Southern California, 98.5 The Bet in Las Vegas and the Hawaii Sports Radio Network 95.1 FM and 760 AM in Hawaii.
