07/17/26 Hour 1: Tory Tekyl Is Illinois Football's New Executive Director; Adam Wainwright Defends Cardinals Fans Against Barstool Sports; Cardinals vs. Diamondbacks & Cubs vs. Twins Preview

Illinois Football continues to strengthen its off-the-field leadership as Bret Bielema has added Tory Tekyl as the program's new Executive Director, bringing another experienced administrator into the Illini football operation as the program looks to build on its recent success. Meanwhile, Cardinals legend Adam Wainwright is standing up for St. Louis. After Barstool Sports criticized the Cardinals organization, Busch Stadium, and its fan base, Wainwright fired back by passionately defending Cardinals fans, saying they earned the reputation as "the best fans in baseball" through decades of loyalty and knowledge of the game—not because they gave themselves the title. Tonight, the Cardinals open a key series against the Arizona Diamondbacks looking to continue building momentum in the second half. Can St. Louis slow down Arizona's explosive offense while continuing to get production from its young core, including Home Run Derby champion Jordan Walker? Plus, the Cubs begin an intriguing interleague matchup against the Minnesota Twins. Chicago enters the weekend trying to stay in the thick of the National League playoff race, while the Twins are looking to climb back into contention in the American League. We'll break down both matchups, discuss the biggest storylines to watch, and make our predictions for tonight's games.