In California, Larry Bohannan notes '16 is "not shaping up to be a great year" for U.S. players on the LPGA, which begs the question if American fans should be "concerned that top players from this country aren't doing better?" The LPGA has played 10 officials events this year, and "there has been one American winner," Lexi Thompson. The LPGA "surely has to be happy that players from around the world are winning on its tour," but there is "something to be said for having a strong American presence" (Palm Springs DESERT SUN, 4/26).
DON OF A NEW DAY? In L.A., Kevin Baxter wrote MLS' plan to expand to 28 teams is a "high-stakes gamble that could bring the whole house of cards crashing down." The quality of teams is important, and expansion could "fuel a decline in the league's already uneven level of play." Under MLS Commissioner Don Garber's plan, more teams "means more fans, more revenue and, eventually, more money to pour back into player development and salaries, which will eventually improve the quality of play as well." Baxter: "It's a gamble. But it's one he believes is worth taking" (L.A. TIMES, 4/24).
LESS-IS-MORE APPROACH: In N.Y., Michael Powell writes the NBA "would gain a lot more with a lot less" postseason play. First-round playoff series "should come capped at five games, maximum." Powell: "Make the first-round series two out of three, and the second series three out of five." When the best teams "reach the conference finals and the championship round, let it expand to seven games" (N.Y. TIMES, 4/26).
