Recent content from Michael Rand
Tentative TV deal for Bally Sports and Wolves chatter from media day
Diamond Sports, the parent company of Bally Sports North, has reportedly reached a one-year agreement to stay on Comcast and DirecTV. But NBA and NHL teams might have to take a pay cut on their contracts.
Can Vikings secure the football before they fumble away their season?
The Vikings are putting the ball on the ground, and losing it, at an alarming rate this season. It's a big problem that tends to compound itself until it's fixed.
4 trades that built the Twins rotation — and give them playoff hope
In four consecutive years, the Twins bolstered their starting rotation with trades. Some were unpopular or risky, all give the Twins a chance to win next week and break their 19-year postseason losing streak.
Wolves, Wild in limbo with Bally Sports North as another deadline nears
Key markers are coming up as Diamond Sports attempts to remain a key player in regional sports broadcasts. Two are this week, and they could affect whether the Wolves and Wild stay on BSN.
Cousins, O'Connell weren't on the same page Sunday
Communication bogged down late between Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins and head coach Kevin O'Connell in the loss to the Chargers. A play earlier in the second half provided a bookend for a frustrating day.
Buxton back with the Saints, but will he make Twins' playoff roster?
Byron Buxton hasn't played for the Twins since Aug. 1 and was shut down with the Class AAA Saints on Sept. 1. But he was back in the DH spot Thursday in St. Paul. His playoff status, though, is still in doubt.
Five unsung heroes who have Twins on brink of the AL Central title
In a season defined more by role players than stars, let's pause to appreciate the Twins' depth and lesser-known players who have fueled their success.
Winless Vikings are home underdogs Sunday. What happens if they lose?
Starting 0-2 is a tough hole out of which to climb. Starting 0-3 by losing to the Chargers? That could alter the direction of the franchise for years to come.
The Great Baseball Road Trip: Only if you take me with you
The resumption of an annual trip meant a lot, helping build a bridge from the past to the present. And seeing a couple former Twins in a minor-league game reinforced why it's always good to keep moving forward.
If you want to see Vikings' flaws laid bare, ship them to Philadelphia
A history of flailing against the Eagles has defined multiple Vikings tenures, even as the way we have watched it unfold continues to change.