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athletics, baseball, professional sports, sports, team

Mets All-Star first baseman Pete Alonso will opt out of contract and test free agency again

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MIAMI (AP) — Pete Alonso has announced he will opt out of his contract with the New York Mets and enter free agency again, following the team’s failure to make the playoffs this season.

Alonso previously tested the free agent market last offseason before deciding to stay with the franchise that drafted him in 2016 out of Florida. In February, he signed a two-year, $54 million contract that paid him $30 million this season, with a $24 million player option for the next year.

The All-Star first baseman indicated he would like to return to the Mets once more but emphasized his desire to win a championship.

“There’s some great guys in this clubhouse, there’s some great people on the staff,” Alonso said. “And every single day, it’s just been a pleasure coming to work and putting on the orange and blue. I’ve really appreciated it and been nothing but full of gratitude every single day. Nothing’s guaranteed, but we’ll see what happens. I’ve loved being a Met, so hopefully they’ve appreciated me in the same way.”

At 30 years old, Alonso earned his fifth All-Star selection this season, batting a career-best .272 with 38 home runs, 126 RBIs, and a career-high 41 doubles. Along the way, he broke the Mets’ franchise record for home runs, surpassing Darryl Strawberry’s previous mark of 252.

“I think the biggest thing is, I want to win,” Alonso said. “I know we didn’t this year, but we had the right pieces — I think we just didn’t do it. At the beginning of the year, you just want to have the best possible chance to hold up the trophy at the end and see yourself being a champion. So for me, it’s why I do this. I want to be on top of the mountain. I want to win a World Series. That’s the ultimate goal.”

The Mets entered Sunday’s regular-season finale needing a win and a Cincinnati loss at Milwaukee to make the playoffs. However, New York could not overcome a four-run fourth inning by the Miami Marlins and was eliminated from postseason contention following a 4-0 loss.

___
AP MLB
https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/baseball/2025/09/28/mets-all-star-first-baseman-pete-alonso-will-opt-out-of-contract-and-test-free-agency-again

afghanistan, international relations, politics, regional cooperation, security

Top diplomats of North Korea, China agree to deepen ties and resist hegemonism

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**North Korea and China Pledge to Deepen Ties and Resist Hegemonism**

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — The foreign ministers of North Korea and China recently agreed to strengthen their bilateral relationship and jointly resist hegemonism and unilateralism, signaling a continued pushback against the United States.

The meeting took place in Beijing on Sunday, roughly three weeks after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Chinese President Xi Jinping held their first summit in over six years, where they pledged mutual support and enhanced cooperation.

Earlier, Kim and Xi attended a massive military parade in Beijing commemorating the end of World War II. The event also featured other world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin. The joint appearance of Kim, Xi, and Putin—the first of its kind—highlighted a potential three-way unity against the United States. However, it remains unclear how far China is willing to go in such an anti-U.S. partnership.

During the meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui cited Kim Jong Un’s statement that further strengthening ties with China remains an unwavering position for North Korea. Choe expressed intent to deepen and develop friendly relations with China, aligning with the spirit of the Kim-Xi summit, according to the North Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Wang emphasized that China is committed to solidifying bilateral ties and stressed the need to boost strategic communications and exchanges. China’s Xinhua News Agency quoted Wang as stating that China opposes all forms of hegemonism and is ready to strengthen cooperation with North Korea in international and regional affairs.

Choe echoed this sentiment by expressing North Korea’s willingness to closely cooperate with China in multilateral affairs, jointly resist unilateralism and power politics, and promote a fairer and more just world order. These remarks are likely referring to both countries’ ongoing confrontations with the United States—China due to strategic competition and North Korea regarding its nuclear weapons program.

KCNA reported that Choe and Wang exchanged views on regional and international affairs and reached a complete consensus on key issues, though further details were not disclosed.

Kim Jong Un’s attendance at the Beijing military parade marked his first participation in a major multilateral event during his 14-year rule. In recent years, North Korea has increasingly focused on expanding cooperation with Russia, reportedly supplying combat troops and ammunition to support Russia’s war in Ukraine.

However, analysts suggest that Kim now sees a pressing need to improve relations with China, North Korea’s largest trading partner and primary aid benefactor, as the war’s end approaches. For its part, China seeks to maintain its influence over North Korea, especially as bilateral ties reportedly cooled in recent years.

Attention is now turning to the composition of the Chinese delegation expected to visit North Korea next month for the 80th founding anniversary of North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party. North Korea is also expected to mark the occasion with its own military parade, likely showcasing new weapons aimed at the United States and its allies.
https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/world/2025/09/28/top-diplomats-of-north-korea-china-agree-to-deepen-ties-and-resist-hegemonism

business, china, economy, investing, technology

Is Alibaba Stock a Safe Buy Now?

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Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE: BABA) has been a focal point for investors looking to capitalize on China’s burgeoning e-commerce market. However, recent years have seen a roller-coaster ride for the stock, driven by regulatory crackdowns and economic uncertainties in China. The question for investors now is whether Alibaba represents a safe investment opportunity or if caution is still warranted.

Alibaba’s financial performance has shown resilience despite external pressures. The company reported strong revenue growth driven by its core commerce segment and cloud computing services. These sectors remain Alibaba’s backbone, contributing significantly to its financial health. Moreover, Alibaba’s international commerce and digital media segments are gaining traction, promising further diversification.

Regulatory challenges remain a significant concern. The Chinese government’s increased scrutiny over technology companies has led to hefty fines and operational adjustments for Alibaba. These regulatory measures are part of China’s broader goal to control the tech sector’s influence and ensure data security. However, Alibaba’s proactive compliance and cooperation with authorities may mitigate long-term impacts and restore investor confidence.

The global economic landscape also impacts Alibaba’s prospects. China’s economic slowdown and trade tensions with the United States have introduced volatility in the market. As a result, Alibaba’s international expansion efforts become critical. By strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia and Europe, Alibaba aims to reduce reliance on the domestic market and tap into new growth avenues.

Investor sentiment is gradually recovering as Alibaba demonstrates adaptability and strategic foresight. The company’s innovation in cloud technology and artificial intelligence positions it well for future growth. Moreover, Alibaba’s focus on sustainability and social responsibility aligns with global trends, potentially attracting ESG-conscious investors.

In conclusion, while challenges persist, Alibaba’s comprehensive strategy and financial robustness make it a compelling option for investors with a high-risk tolerance. Those considering Alibaba should weigh the potential for significant returns against the backdrop of regulatory and economic uncertainties.

*Footnotes:*
*Featured Image: DepositPhotos @ Iurii*
https://pressreach.com/investing-news/is-alibaba-stock-a-safe-buy-now/

general

‘Inflation and pressure on US cos to invest domestically may keep FII money away’

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Seemant Shukla, CEO of Quantum Asset Management Co., highlighted several global challenges currently impacting markets worldwide. Among these are persistent US inflation, ongoing tariffs, and increasing pressure on American companies to prioritize domestic investments.

According to Shukla, these factors are putting India’s market resilience to the test. Despite these external headwinds, the Indian market continues to demonstrate strength and adaptability in a complex global environment.
https://www.livemint.com/market/fii-selling-china-valuations-india-resilience-gst-cut-seemant-shukla-quantum-amc-11759039813233.html

general

Managing invisible disruptions: Key lessons for CEOs

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CEOs today are faced with multiple uncertainties. Technological disruption, climate change, fractured geopolitics, and other long-term megatrends are fundamentally reshaping how business leaders lead, adapt, and grow.

Isla Lipana & Co./PwC Philippines, in collaboration with the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), has been annually documenting CEOs’ thoughts and insights on doing business in the Philippines.
https://business.inquirer.net/549640/managing-invisible-disruptions-key-lessons-for-ceos

general

Luisangel Acuna’s wife Dior enjoys Miami beach in a pink bikini, soaking up the sun ahead of the Mets’ must-win showdown against the Marlins

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Luisangel Acuna and the New York Mets find themselves in a challenging position as the baseball season heats up.

Currently, the Mets are one of the two teams battling for the final postseason spot, competing closely with the Cincinnati Reds.

This tight race underscores the intensity and competitiveness of the playoff hunt, making every game crucial for both teams moving forward.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/baseball/news-luisangel-acuna-s-wife-dior-enjoys-miami-beach-pink-bikini-soaking-sun-ahead-mets-must-win-showdown-marlins

general

Albertsons recalls several deli items due to potential listeria contamination

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Albertsons Companies has issued a recall of several of its store-made deli products due to potential contamination with listeria bacteria.

This recall comes shortly after federal health officials warned consumers to avoid certain pasta meals sold at Walmart and Trader Joe’s, which were similarly affected by listeria concerns.

Customers who have purchased these deli items are advised to check for recalls and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/09/28/albertsons-recalls-potential-listeria-contamination/

celebrity, controversy, family, news, royalty

Christmas Crisis: Disgraced Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson Frozen Out of Royal Holiday Plans After Fresh Details About Epstein Relationship Were Leaked

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**Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson Reportedly Not Welcome at This Year’s Royal Christmas Celebrations Amid Epstein Controversy**

*Published: September 28, 2025, 2:30 p.m. ET*

Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson have reportedly been told they will not be welcome at the Royal Family’s Christmas celebrations this year, as fresh controversy over their ties to Jeffrey Epstein has resurfaced, RadarOnline.com can report.

According to sources, King Charles, 76, has made it clear he wants to keep both the Duke and Duchess of York, 65, at a distance following revelations that Ferguson privately apologized to Epstein after publicly disowning him. An outlet recently exposed a letter in which the Duchess described the convicted paedophile as a “steadfast, generous and supreme friend.”

Andrew and Ferguson, who divorced in 1996 but continue living together at Royal Lodge in Windsor, have also been told to remain “invisible” at future royal gatherings, insiders claim.

### King’s Stance and Family Reaction

A source close to King Charles told outlets, “You can’t sack someone from being your brother. But this year, if the Duke and Duchess were both to be as honourable (as last year), it would be very much for the best and the family would not be disappointed, not least to avoid the King having to make any more difficult decisions.”

Last year, the King reportedly asked Ferguson to help persuade Andrew not to attend the royal Christmas after the Duke was linked to alleged Chinese spy Yang Tengbo. Instead, the Yorks spent the holiday privately at Royal Lodge, without their daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.

This year’s scandal has further strained family ties. Royal sources suggest Charles and Prince William have agreed that Andrew remains a “risk” and a “threat” to the monarchy. The Prince of Wales is understood to fully support his father’s position.

### Fallout for Ferguson

Several charities have severed their ties with the Duchess of York after the exposé revealed she had written warmly to Epstein only weeks after pledging to sever ties.

In a private message, Ferguson admitted that she distanced herself from Epstein solely to protect her reputation as a children’s author, saying she had been advised to speak out “if she wanted to save her career.” She wrote the note “from the truth of my heart,” despite having told journalists just two months earlier: “I will never have anything to do with (Epstein) again.”

Friends insist she is “devastated for any embarrassment” caused and will explain herself to the wider Royal Family “in due course.”

### Tensions at Public Events

The Yorks’ presence at recent royal occasions has raised eyebrows. At the Duchess of Kent’s funeral earlier this month, Andrew was seen laughing loudly and attempting to engage with Prince William, who appeared to ignore him.

While sources say Charles is “not of the mind to banish someone,” the monarch hopes Andrew and Ferguson will keep a low profile by using discreet entrances at family events.

### Broader Consequences

Andrew stepped back from royal duties in 2019 after his disastrous *Newsnight* interview and continued questions over his friendship with Epstein and alleged involvement with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual assault when she was 17.

Though Andrew denied the claims, he settled with Giuffre out of court for a reported $16 million. Newly released U.S. congressional files have again linked Andrew to Epstein through message logs, flight records, and financial ledgers. The same documents also named other prominent figures, including billionaire Elon Musk.

The scandal is now affecting Andrew and Ferguson’s daughters. Friends of Princess Beatrice say she has “lost all hope” of ever becoming a working royal, despite her willingness to help ease the burden on Charles and William.
https://radaronline.com/p/prince-andrew-sarah-ferguson-frozen-out-royal-christmas-epstein-scandal/

activism, health, local news, politics

Indore News: JAYS Protest Intensifies, Half Naked Rally Taken Out

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**Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Protest by Jai Adivasi Yuva Shakti (JAYS) Enters Second Week Over ‘Rat Bite Incident’ at MY Hospital**

The protest by Jai Adivasi Yuva Shakti (JAYS) against the infamous “rat bite incident” at Maharaja Yeshwantrao (MY) Hospital has now entered its second week. For the past seven days, JAYS activists have been staging an indefinite sit-in outside the hospital gate, demanding the suspension of the dean and superintendent, along with the registration of an FIR against them.

On Sunday afternoon, when their demands were not met, JAYS activists gathered at the MY Hospital gate and marched towards the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, raising slogans. From there, they proceeded in a half-naked rally to the Collectorate as a mark of strong protest.

The protestors are demanding the suspension of the dean, superintendent, and other negligent officials, as well as the registration of a culpable homicide case following the death of an Adivasi newborn from RupaPada village in Dhar district. The infant succumbed after suffering rat bites at the hospital’s NICU.

JAYS state president Pawan Dawar said, “We had informed the authorities on September 6, but till now no strict action has been taken. The government keeps giving assurances, but no accountability is being fixed.”

JAYS national president Lokesh Mujalda added, “Our demands are clear: book the dean, MY superintendent, and other responsible officials under criminal charges, and provide adequate compensation to the affected families so such incidents never happen again.”

The protest initially began on Sunday, September 21, when JAYS workers occupied the MY Hospital gate late into the night. The organisation has announced it will continue the agitation until their demands are met.

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### JAYS’ Key Demands
– Immediate suspension of the dean and superintendent of MY Hospital, along with other responsible officials.
– FIR and criminal proceedings against negligent officers.
– Compensation of Rs 1 crore each to the families of the two victims.

—

### MY Hospital Rat Incident Timeline

**August 30–31**
– Rats attacked newborns in the NICU of Emway Hospital.

**September 1**
– Video surfaced showing rats present in the NICU ward.

**September 2**
– Death of a newborn from Dhar district.
– Dr Arvind Ghamghoria formed an investigation committee.
– Nurse suspended for negligence.
– Notices issued to Pediatric Surgery HOD and in-charge Anaesthesia.

**September 3**
– Death of a newborn from Dewas district.
– State-level investigation committee formed on the Chief Minister’s orders.

**September 4**
– State-level committee from Bhopal inspected the hospital.

**September 6**
– Family of the Dhar victim reached the hospital.
– Informed that four fingers of the newborn were bitten by rats.

**September 9**
– Deputy CM Rajendra Shukla reviewed the incident at MY Hospital.

**September 10**
– Family of the Dewas victim met Collector Shivam Verma.
– Rs 5 lakh assistance provided to the family.
– NICU incident in-charge Dr Mukesh Joshi suspended.
– Departmental head Dr Brajesh Rathore removed from his post.
– Madhya Pradesh High Court took suo motu cognizance of the case.
– State government directed status report submission by September 15.

**September 21**
– JAYS began protest at main gate of MY Hospital.

**September 23**
– Doctors and staff of Maharaja Yeshwantrao Hospital Junior Doctors Association launched a counter-protest against the indefinite agitation by JAYS.
– Alumni of MGM extended support to JAYS.

—

The protest continues as JAYS demands strict accountability and justice for the victims of this tragic incident. Updates will follow as the situation unfolds.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/indore/indore-news-jays-protest-intensifies-half-naked-rally-taken-out