La Velle E. Neal III
Columnist
SportsA native of Chicago, La Velle has covered the Minnesota Twins since 1998. He also covered the Kansas City Royals for the Kansas City Star from 1995 through 1997. A graduate of the University of Illinois - Chicago, La Velle is a former president of the Baseball Writers Association of America.
Latest from La Velle E. Neal III
Fighting for Five: How the 2025 Minnesota Lynx squad came together
After last year’s heartbreaking loss in the WNBA Finals, the Lynx have gone from hunter to hunted following a dominant regular season and the No. 1 overall seed in the WNBA playoffs.
September 12, 2025
Neal: After slow start, J.J. McCarthy reveals qualities that give Vikings hope for future
A jittery opening three quarters turned into a magnificent comeback performance for a quarterback playing in his first meaningful game in more than 600 days.
September 9, 2025
Neal: Story lines aplenty in Vikings-Bears showdown, but someone’s debut will be ruined
Whether it’s Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy or Bears coach Ben Johnson, someone is going to have his debut spoiled and questions will swirl.
September 8, 2025
Neal: How outgrowing gymnastics, literally, led Julia Hanson to the volleyball court with the Gophers
After earning first team All-Big Ten honors last season, her first as a full-time starter, Hanson is primed for a big senior season as she was named to the AVCA preseason player of the year watch list.
September 4, 2025
Neal: Might Buxton be seeking Twins’ first 30-30 season?
The center fielder could need to swipe third base a few times to reach 30 stolen bases, but at least it’s something he has done now.
September 1, 2025
Neal: Alanna Smith’s toughness makes her a WNBA Defensive Player of the Year candidate
The Lynx center regularly goes against taller players but is up to the task for the league’s winningest team.
August 30, 2025
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Cruising early, Lynx fall flat in second half in blowout loss to Storm
The Lynx could have clinched the top seed in the WNBA playoffs but were outscored 60-33 by Seattle in the second half.
August 29, 2025
Neal: Lee and Penny Anderson Arena will be a game-changer for St. Thomas
The new basketball arena and hockey rink highlights the university’s status in Division I.
August 28, 2025
Neal: Some answers to Vikings roster questions are clear as cutdown day nears
What else do the Vikings need to see from quarterback Max Brosmer, running back Zavier Scott and punter Ryan Wright?
August 23, 2025
Neal: Twins’ next big move is to make room for prospects. Some veterans will have to go.
Among position players, Trevor Larnach, Edouard Julien, Matt Wallner and Brooks Lee must show why they should stay. Three starting pitchers face the same challenge.
August 20, 2025
Neal: Through daunting part of schedule, Lynx just keep on winning
Playing New York on Saturday for the second time of three in a row, the Lynx battled through adversity and once again prevailed on the scoreboard.
August 16, 2025
Neal: Minority investors are nice, but it won’t solve the Twins’ problem
The fallout from Diamond Sports Network’s bankruptcy has ruined Minnesota’s payroll more than anything as the Twins are stuck with very little TV revenue
August 14, 2025
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