National Sports

TORONTO — There were nights after Chris Boucher had punched out from his job at a Montreal rotisserie restaurant that he would ride an overnight bus to sleep.

After competing for Canada at the Women's Rugby League World Cup in Australia last November, MacKenzie Fane returned home and pondered her future. The former Western Ontario Mustang rugby all-star was accepted at university to continue her studies.

NEW YORK — Brock Holt had one thing in mind: He was swinging for the fences. After all, the game was decided long ago.

CALGARY — Kerri Einarson heard the comments and questions.

SHANGHAI — Nikoloz Basilashvili won his sixth straight match Tuesday, beating Denis Shapovalov of Richmond Hill, Ont., 6-2, 6-2 in the first round of the Shanghai Masters.

EDINBURG, Texas — Adriana Leon and Jordyn Huitema each had four goals in Canada's dominating 12-0 victory over Cuba on Monday night in the group stage of the CONCACAF Women's World Cup qualifying tournament. Canada, ranked No.

ATLANTA — When the Los Angeles Dodgers bolstered their already power-packed lineup with slugging shortstop Manny Machado, this is just what they had in mind. Plenty of long balls. Another deep run in the post-season .

REGINA — Willie Jefferson made the big play when it mattered most.

CLEVELAND — As his teammates sprayed each other with champagne and beer in Houston's buzzing clubhouse, ace Justin Verlander stayed clear of the fray and foam while enjoying a cigar. This wasn't the time to get soaked. Bigger parties lie ahead.

MONTREAL — The Calgary Stampeders refused to celebrate their first-round playoff bye after their worst offensive performance of the season.