Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 48

SF Giants blown out by Nationals as Verlander joins 3,500-strikeout club

SAN FRANCISCO — Justin Verlander made history, but the Washington Nationals played spoiler.

In front of a Sunday sellout crowd at Oracle Park, Verlander became the 10th pitcher to ever total 3,500 career strikeouts. For Verlander, it was the latest of his laundry list of feats that will land him in Cooperstown.

That was just about all the home fans had to celebrate.

Verlander allowed five runs and 11 hits over five innings. Washington’s MacKenzie Gore pitched six shutout innings with 10 strikeouts. Infielder Christian Koss pitched the top of the ninth inning. With a critical three-game series against the San Diego Padres looming, the Giants lost 8-0 to the Nationals, dropping a series to the third-worst team in baseball.

“We got 40,000 people here. We don’t give them anything to root for the entire game other than (Verlander),” said manager Bob Melvin. “Unfortunately, that’s probably as disappointing of a game we’ve had all year.”

Melvin’s frustrations were well-warranted following one of San Francisco’s flattest games of the season. The lethargy surprised Melvin given the energy that the team exhibited coming out of this morning’s hitters’ meeting.

“Everybody was prepared,” said third baseman Matt Chapman. “We were ready to go. We were excited. Our goal was to win today. We went out there and kind of got punched in the face a little bit.”

San Francisco Giants’ Rafael Devers (16) returns to the dugout after striking out in the sixth inning of their MLB game at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. The Washington Nationals defeated the San Francisco Giants 8-0. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)

Verlander entered the day with 3,497 regular-season strikeouts, and he needed only one inning to reach the next big round number.

The future Hall of Famer began his afternoon by striking out James Wood swinging with an elevated 95.3 mph four-seam fastball. He followed up by punching out CJ Abrams swinging with a down-and-in slider that dropped off the table, bringing him one strikeout away from history.

Verlander’s march to history was delayed by back-to-back singles from Josh Bell and Paul DeJong, setting up a matchup against Nathaniel Lowe with two on and two outs. Once Verlander got ahead in the count, 1-2, he reared back and fired a four-seam fastball on the outside edge. Lowe’s foul tip landed right in the mitt of catcher Patrick Bailey. Verlander had his history.

The Sunday afternoon crowd rose to their feet and applauded Verlander, who joined Nolan Ryan, Randy Johnson, Roger Clemens, Steve Carlton, Bert Blyleven, Tom Seaver, Don Sutton, Gaylord Perry and Walter Johnson as the only pitchers to ever reach the milestone. Verlander, in return, tipped his cap as he walked back to the third-base dugout.

“I was happy to get there, happy to have the moment with the fans,” Verlander said. “It’s a cool milestone. I really appreciate what it’s taken to get there.”

The good vibes at the ballpark quickly dissipated.

San Francisco Giants’ Drew Gilbert (61) grimaces before batting in the eighth inning of their MLB game at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. The Washington Nationals defeated the San Francisco Giants 8-0. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)Washington Nationals’ Nathaniel Lowe (33) crashes into the catcher Riley Adams (15) while chasing a pop up hit by San Francisco Giants’ Wilmer Flores (41) in the ninth inning of their MLB game at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. Adams would catch the ball for the out. The Washington Nationals defeated the San Francisco Giants 8-0. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)San Francisco Giants pitcher Spencer Bivens (76) pitches against the Washington Nationals in the sixth inning of their MLB game at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. The Washington Nationals defeated the San Francisco Giants 8-0. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)San Francisco Giants pitcher Justin Verlander (35) wipes his face while pitching against the Washington Nationals in the fourth inning of their MLB game at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. The Washington Nationals defeated the San Francisco Giants 8-0. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)San Francisco Giants pitcher Justin Verlander (35) strikes out Washington Nationals’ Nathaniel Lowe (33) in the first inning of their MLB game at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. Verlander is now the 10th pitcher in MLB history to record 3,500 career strikeouts. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)Show Caption1 of 5San Francisco Giants’ Drew Gilbert (61) grimaces before batting in the eighth inning of their MLB game at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. The Washington Nationals defeated the San Francisco Giants 8-0. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)Expand

The Nationals put up a four-spot against Verlander, the backbreaker being CJ Abrams’ towering two-run shot off the right-field foul pole. It was an inning that set the tone for an afternoon that saw the Giants allow 17 hits, tied for the most they’ve allowed in a single game this season. For Verlander, it was the eighth time in his career that he has allowed at least 11 hits.

With a healthy lead, Gore turned in his best start in weeks. Gore entered Sunday having posted an 8.67 ERA over his last six starts, a cold spell that includes a pair of outings against the Padres and Athletics where he allowed eight runs apiece. Against the Giants, Gore returned to his All-Star form with his first double-figure strikeout game since April.

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“He was just throwing a lot of strikes with all his pitches,” said Chapman. “He was landing the breaking ball and the changeup and commanding his fastball to both sides of the plate. I thought he looked really good. When somebody’s as good as he is, he’s bound to bust out of it at some point.”

The Giants haven’t played well in San Francisco as of late. Since their series in mid-July against the Dodgers, the Giants have lost 10 of their last 12 games at Oracle Park, a stretch that includes being swept by the New York Mets and Pittsburgh Pirates right before the trade deadline.

After dropping two of three to the lowly Nationals, the Giants will host a Padres team that loaded up at the trade deadline and owns the second NL wild card spot. The Giants have an opportunity to gain some ground, especially as the Mets have lost seven straight. Doing so will require playing better ball than they did this weekend.

“We need to play better, no doubt about it,” Verlander said. “No excuses.”

Washington Nationals’ Jacob Young (30) steals second base as San Francisco Giants’ Willy Adames (2) is late on the tag in the fourth inning of their MLB game at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. The Washington Nationals defeated the San Francisco Giants 8-0. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)

Looking back: A day at the tuna plant

49ers reportedly bring back their former leading rusher to depleted backfield

The 49ers will have a familiar face returning to their running back room this week.

Citing agents Drew Rosenhaus and Shawn O’Dare, ESPN’s Adam Schefter is reporting the 49ers are bringing back running back Jeff Wilson Jr.

The 49ers likely have no intention of playing starter Christian McCaffrey in the preseason, backup Isaac Guerendo is out for at least two more weeks with a shoulder injury and fifth-round draft pick Jordan James had finger surgery after knee issues earlier in camp. Their leading rusher in Saturday’s preseason-opening loss to Denver was undrafted free agent Corey Kiner (10 rushes, 45 yards), followed by veteran free agent Ameer Abdullah (four rushes, 20 yards). Abdullah was hurt during the game, suffering a rib injury on a play in which he fumbled.

Wilson played in 45 games with 15 starts for the 49ers under Shanahan and gained 1,733 yards on 390 carries with 15 touchdowns. He was traded to the Miami Dolphins in 2022 when McCaffrey was acquired by trade from Carolina.

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The 49ers overhauled their running back depth this offseason, trading last year’s leading rusher, Jordan Mason, to Minnesota and allowing 2021 leader Elijah Mitchell to walk in free agency, where he signed with Kansas City.

Wilson led the 49ers with 600 rushing yards during their doomed 2020 season. He has plenty of experience in coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense, as his coach in Miami was former 49ers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.

High School football tour: Gonzales relishes return to home field

EDITOR’S NOTE: Herald sports writer John Devine is spending most of this month visiting Monterey County schools to get a sneak peek of their football teams. This and other previews will be available at www.montereyherald.com.

GONZALES – Without a place to call home last year while its field was being renovated, unforeseen obstacles piled up in the path of success for Gonzales High’s football team — such has not having any goal posts on its practice field for its kicker to attempt extra points or field goals. It wasn’t until the Spartans’ third game that they even set up for an extra point.

“We didn’t have chalked lines,” Gonzales coach Eddy Ramirez said. “Where is 20 yards when running a route? No hashmarks? The practice field wore down. We couldn’t practice in the same place for too long.”

The Spartans were road-bound for 10 games, while a synthetic turf field was being installed, with home games played at Salinas and Alisal high schools, as well as Monterey Peninsula College.

“I believe not having goal posts cost a game earlier in the year,” said Gonzales offensive lineman Larry Bettencourt, who begins his third season as a starter in the trenches.

Larry Bettencourt of Gonzales. (John Devine -- Monterey Herald)

Yet, rather than using it as a crutch, players played for each other, with a lunch pail attitude. The result saw Gonzales improve in the win column for the fourth straight year under Ramirez.

“We tried not to dwell on it,” said Ramirez, who begins his fifth season. “That’s just the way it is. What we can control is our effort and attitude.”

Embracing that challenge, the Spartans brought the ‘megaphone’ trophy back to Gonzales, using a 17-yard field goal on his first attempt of the season from soccer standout Luis Cabada to upset King City 24-23 in Week 3.

From 0-9 when the sport resumed following the pandemic in 2021, to 6-4 last season, Gonzales has regained the respect of the Pacific Coast Athletic League’s Santa Lucia Division.

“It’s good to look back at the success,” Ramirez said. “But I can tell you right now this group of kids is completely different than last year. We need to understand we have to earn that respect.”

While not the smallest program in the county, the Spartans are a work in progress in improving the numbers, as 58 players are in the entire program.

While the roster size is are still below what Ramirez – a Gonzales alum – would like to have for his two programs, those who are out are talented, but young.

There have been a lot of teaching moments in Ramirez’s first four seasons. That won’t change this fall as Gonzales will be tested in the nonleague season.

Nelson Cisneros will come off the edge on defense for Gonzales. (John Devine -- Monterey Herald)

On the menu is longtime rival King City, its first home game in its refurbished stadium, as well as Scotts Valley and Templeton. In addition, Ramirez lined up a scrimmage with Gabilan Division newcomer Alisal.

“I look at the preseason as a test of what kind of team we’ll be,” Ramirez said. “We will have our hands full. We are going to be challenged. Isn’t that what you want?”

Yet, for Gonzales to attempt to become the fourth different team in five years to win the Santa Lucia Division title, it will need a growth spurt from its youth.

“The last couple of years we’ve had a little more talent and experience,” Bettencourt said. “But a lot of players have put in the work in the offseason. You can feel the energy at practice.”

The Spartans, who closed last season with a three-game winning streak, went 6-0 against teams currently in the Santa Lucia Division.

“We’ll have to work harder to have similar success,” Ramirez said. “Our personnel will be completely different. We lost 24 seniors. As talented as I think we are, we don’t have the experience.”

What has paved a path for the Spartans over the past four years has been the sacrifices that have come from the last four senior classes, understanding they were setting the foundation for the future.

Jarden Uribe of Gonzales. (John Devine -- Monterey Herald)

Not having a home game last year tested the fortitude of the program, which responded with its first winning season in five years.

“It was one of those things if you thought about it, it hit you,” Ramirez said. “We never got to walk down ‘Spartan Alley.’ It was always someone else’s logo on the field. So what we did is we didn’t talk or think about it. We reinforced it with the kids.”

What has surprised Ramirez is having a plush new turf field and renovated stadium to play on this fall didn’t create the interest he hoped. In fact, numbers are slightly down from last year.

“It’s ironic,” Ramirez said. “The freshman class has 14 kids. The kids we do have are a good core to build off of. What I do know is we have talent.”

No question, there are gaps to fill after graduation stripped Ramirez of a dozen starters – several of which were three-year starters.

Yet, the cupboard has been restocked, starting with the return of Bettencourt, an all-leaguer who provides stability in the trenches.

Bettencourt is a punishing run blocker who can create openings big enough for a truck to drive through. He will also be asked to protect the quarterback’s blind side this fall.

“He’s our left tackle,” Ramirez said. “He’s an important piece. He’s a multiple-sport athlete. Every year he’s a fighter. He’s teaching the younger kids. This is his year.”

What the offense runs this fall may depend on how quickly quarterback Jordan Askew grows into a position he was asked to learn five weeks before the start of the season.

Jordan Eskew of Gonzales. (John Devine -- Monterey Herald)

A starting defensive back last season, the left-handed quarterback has poise and confidence, but is still developing chemistry with a corps of talented receivers.

“That’s where we’re at,” Ramirez said.

It’s possible that tailback Aaron Hernandez could find himself taking snaps for a change of pace, or lining up in the slot to provide another target.

Often a third or fourth option in the Spartans’ passing game last fall, 6-foot-2 Jaden Uribe will be one of the team’s primary targets, having caught 13 passes last year.

“When we did 7s, he was always covered,” Ramirez said. “He gets good releases and can get to high point balls. He has good hands. It’s his senior year. He’s been working for this.”

Where Gonzales saw its biggest improvement in the second half of the season last year was its defense, which held five opponents to 13 points or less.

Uribe, Askew and Hernandez solidify the secondary, with Uribe recording two interceptions and five pass breakups last fall.

Jaden Uribe will be one of the team’s primary targets. (John Devine -- Monterey Herald)

Anchoring the trenches fell into the lap of Joshua Mariscal, who made it difficult for coaches to take him out of the game as the season progressed.

“He had some good numbers,” Ramirez said. “We have some people coming up that are going to surprise some people. We have kids that bring energy to that defensive line.”

Mariscal made his mark coming off the edge to create havoc, compiling 15 tackles, two sacks and a forced fumble. He could be a factor on the offensive line.

“If you look at improvement in terms of more yards, more points and more sacks, it’s a realistic goal,” Ramirez said. “We are going to be doing a lot of learning early in the season. The way you learn is by correcting your mistakes. You can’t be afraid to fail.”

Classic Car Week: Monterey British makes its debut this year

CARMEL VALLEY — The Austin Metro and Aston Martin. The Rolls-Royce Phantom and Range Rover Classic. None of the iconic vehicles are likely mentioned in the same conversation among automotive enthusiasts, with one exception.

If the subject is British cars, the foursome qualifies. Simple, one-liter, four-cylinder machines with top speeds of 87 miles per hour and V12s with 1,160 horsepower and top ends for more than 250 horsepower. All are passionate diversions for members of the Jaguar Associate Group in Menlo Park.

A year ago, a weekend of events was held on the Monterey Peninsula to celebrate Jaguar group’s 70th anniversary. Now, Kristan Neubecker, a lifelong Jaguar fan who was instrumental in planning the occasion, has further responsibilities. She’s the organizer of a properly English afternoon escape Monday at Monterey British in Carmel Valley. It’s the show’s debut in Classic Car Week.

Tea and crumpets are optional, but picnics from nearby restaurants and grocery store options are encouraged.

Unheralded to exotic, the collection of an estimated 80 British cars will be part of the picnic theme for the showcase at the Carmel Valley Community Park.

With the backdrop of the Santa Lucia mountains, registered featured vehicles will include Aston Martin, Austin Healey, Bentley, Cooper (Austin & Mini), Daimler, Elva, Jaguar, Jensen, Lotus, McLaren, MG, Morgan, Rolls-Royce, Rover and Triumph.

The classic and modern all-British car show is described by organizers as “casual yet elegant” and is scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m. Participants can begin to stage their vehicles at noon. Public admission is free. An awards presentation is scheduled at 3:30 p.m.

“There aren’t too many things that Car Week doesn’t have,” Neubecker said. “And there’s not too much space to put on any more events. There wasn’t a lot scheduled on Monday and so this event is taking on a life of its own.”

Neubecker is also quite aware that not all British cars are considered the industry’s finest machines. “We try to ignore that,” she said.

A 1937 Bentley 4 1/4 Windover special and a 1950 Jaguar-Parkinson Special will be among the more prominent vehicles showcased. The Jaguar was driven in the inaugural Pebble Beach road race in 1950 by Don Parkinson.

“We are calling it a show because there are so many cars in one location,” Neubecker said. “But we are really hoping it stays more a relaxed gathering. We are trying to break down all pretense of British snobbery.”

Neubecker is a Jaguar uber-enthusiast. As a youngster, she was given the responsibility to shine the wire wheels of family cars, Jaguars.

“Of course, I got into shiny objects and that just led to the fascination and very expensive love of Jaguars,” she said.

With her mother, Neubecker lives in Pebble Beach and owns four Jaguars, including three wagons. The family also has two collies who are often passengers in the Jaguars.

“Honestly, people are more fascinated with our two ‘Lassie’ dogs than the cars,” said Neubecker. “People say, ‘Oh, my God, there’s Lassie and there’s two.’

“It’s wonderful because we end up in some of the greatest conversations. Yes, things usually go back to the car. But it’s mostly the dogs that get spotted. We call our cars ‘Lassie Limos.’”

The Jaguar Associate Group is an affiliate of the Jaguar Clubs of North America. It’s the officially sanctioned club for Jaguar enthusiasts and their families in the Greater San Francisco area including San Francisco, Silicon Valley and communities in the North Bay, East Bay, South Bay and Monterey Bay.

The regional group will also be involved in smaller events during Classic Car Week.

“We call it our Christmas; it’s the best 10 days of the year as far we’re concerned,” said Neunbecker, who moved 11 years ago from the Bay Area to Carmel Valley. “But we were just heartbroken when we learned there wasn’t anything British or Jaguar.”

“All British Marques are welcome,” organizers detail on the club’s website. “All years, models and conditions. No toothbrush cleaning is required (unless you want to). ”

For other events this week visit https://www.seemonterey.com/events/. 

 

Classic Car Week: Reversing the iconic corkscrew

Driver Gunnar Jeannette in the 2023 Porsche 911GT3 participates in the Fourth Annual Corkscrew Hillclimb at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. (Raul Ebio - Herald Correspondent)Motorcyclist Jonathan Merrill rides his 2023 Yamaha R6 during the Fourth Annual Corkscrew Hillclimb at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Merrill came in ninth with a time of 33.695 seconds. (Raul Ebio - Herald Correspondent)Driver Robert Davis in the 1960 Lola Mk1a participates in the Fourth Annual Corkscrew Hillclimb at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Davis came in 15th with a time of 38.051 seconds. (Raul Ebio - Herald Correspondent)Driver Ned Bacon in the 1975 Porsche 911RSR participates in the Fourth Annual Corkscrew Hillclimb at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Bacon comes in third with a time of 31.026 seconds. (Raul Ebio - Herald Correspondent)Driver Art Siordia in the1997 Mazda Formula car participates in the Fourth Annual Corkscrew Hillclimb at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. (Raul Ebio - Herald Correspondent)Driver Christine Sloss in the 2022 Ferrari SF90 wins the Fourth Annual Corkscrew Hillclimb at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca with a time of 30.435 seconds. (Raul Ebio - Herald Correspondent)Driver Alex Grigoreas in the 2000 Porsche GT3R participates in the Fourth Annual Corkscrew Hillclimb at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Grigoreas came in second with a time of 30.697 seconds. (Raul Ebio - Herald Correspondent)Show Caption1 of 7Driver Gunnar Jeannette in the 2023 Porsche 911GT3 participates in the Fourth Annual Corkscrew Hillclimb at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. (Raul Ebio - Herald Correspondent)Expand

Chu eyes playing time on the soccer field at St. Mary’s College

Coming off a redshirt freshman season last fall, Layla Chu Coloma will look to see the field this fall for the St. Mary’s women’s soccer team.

The 5-foot-6 forward was a scoring machine for Monterey in her four seasons, scoring 64 goals, while leading the team to a spot in the Central Coast Section finals in 2021.

Chu was a three-time all-leaguer for the Toreadores, compiling the second-most goals in the county during her junior season in 2022.

Chu’s best season came in 2022 when she scored 21 goals in just 18 matches for Monterey. She collected 15 goals in eight matches as a freshman, leading her team to a spot in the CCS Division IV finals.

210 fall athletes to watch over 70 days

Natalia Aguon, Palma flag football: One of the Chieftains top returning receiving threats, Aguon caught 37 passes for 638 yards and 11 touchdowns as a freshman last season.

A multi-sport standout, Aguon was left on an island on her own last season as a defensive back, intercepting five passes, while breaking up 13 passes.

Ivan Diaz, King City cross country: One of two returning runners among the Mustangs top five from last year, the incoming junior was a Top 10 finisher at the Gabilan Division finals.

No one had a bigger improvement in the program last fall than Diaz, who dropped over two minutes off his freshman time over 5,000 meters.

Myles Jackson, Salinas football: A beast in the trenches for Salinas, Jackson will line up at tackle and protect the quarterback’s blind side.

Jackson is quick off the ball, enabling him to pancake his opponent in passing situations, while putting a defender on his heels with his explosiveness in run blocking.

49ers’ backup QB plan with Mac Jones looks legit despite blowout loss to Broncos

SANTA CLARA — There wasn’t a lot to learn from the 49ers’ 30-9 exhibition loss Saturday night to the Denver Broncos.

Denver basically had its way with the 49ers’ reserves at Levi’s Stadium. The only early highlight for the fans who braved the heat and actually showed up was a first-drive touchdown engineered by quarterback Mac Jones. There was solid visual evidence there’s a lot less concern in, around and outside the building if Brock Purdy goes down.

Jones was 4 of 7 for 74 yards overall, and there was a diminishing returns aspect of the three series he played in the first quarter with a makeshift offensive unit that was missing four starting offensive linemen in tackles Trent Williams and Colton McKivitz, guard Dominick Puni and center Jake Brendel. Also sitting it out were Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall.

Not having eight starters had an impact, of course.

On series No. 2, the 49ers went three-and-out as Jones was forced to run for his life from Denver outside linebacker Nick Bonitto, one of the NFL’s top edge rushers. He threw a quick screen intended for Watkins into the ground. On series No. 3, Watkins appeared to drift on a route to the outside and Jones threw it anyway. It was intercepted by Ja’Quan McMillian.

“He just got confused on the route,” coach Kyle Shanahan said of Watkins.

The first drive, however, was a replay of what Jones has been doing with regularity through the first 12 practices of training camp.

He threw short and to his left to Demarcus Robinson for 8 yards, then after Patrick Taylor Jr. was dumped for a 3-yard loss, Jones showed off his arm. With Watkins heading down the left sideline with little room to spare against McMillian with former 49er Talanoa Hufanga trailing, Jones hit him with a 50-yard strike to the Denver 16.

Before the drive was over, Jones would complete a 4-yard pass in the right flat to Taylor, and then showed he’s adept at the quarterback sneak with a 1-yard plunge to convert a fourth-and-1 to the Denver 5. That set up a 5-yard touchdown run by Taylor.

The drive was 71 yards on eight plays and took 4:19 off the clock.

“I’m on a new team again and you get more comfortable as time goes along,” Jones said. “We started out fast against a No. 1 defense. I felt like the guys answered the question there and we just have to really play better in the other two drives. We get another chance next week to go out there and do it.”

“I thought Mac performed well,” Shanahan said. “I like how he came out. It was a challenge, especially going against that defense. Loved the first drive, next one we went three and out. I was happy with Mac today.

There wasn’t a lot of offense from Jones or the 49ers in the aftermath, but it least it puts the 49ers a leg up on where they were a year ago when Brandon Allen and Joshua Dobbs were staging a battle to be QB2 behind Purdy.

Neither was up to the task, although considering the 49ers’ injury issues, any quarterback would have had trouble.

It’s likely Jones will be called into duty at some point. It’s just the nature of the NFL. Purdy was No. 3 as a rookie when both Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo went down. Last season, Purdy hurt his shoulder in Week 10 against Seattle and Allen started against Green Bay.

Allen is a moderately talented backup who Shanahan trusted to run the offense as designed. The 49ers lost 38-10, with Allen going 17 of 29 for 199 yards, one touchdown and one interception.

Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News GroupMac Jones of the 49ers absorbs a first-quarter sack under heavy pressure from the Denver defense Saturday night at Levi's Stadium.

Purdy had an elbow strain with nerve inflammation in a Week 17 loss to Detroit. In the season finale in Arizona, this time Shanahan went with Dobbs, conceding that perhaps the only way to generate offense was with a quarterback who could run around and convert broken plays.

Dobbs passed for 326 yards and two touchdowns but had two interceptions and a lost fumble. The 49ers lost 47-24.

Jones, in contrast to Allen and Dobbs, is a first-rate, first-round talent. Shanahan knows this because he on some level debated selecting him with the 49ers’ first pick at No. 3 in the NFL Draft but regrettably went with Lance instead, only to be bailed out by Purdy the next year.

“Mac’s a good quarterback and he’s done some good things in this league,” Shanahan said. “He’s had a hell of a camp with us and he did a real good job today. It’s always hard when you have the No. 2 and the No. 3 compete, they’ve to split those reps. We have much more of an idea now of who is No. 1 and who is No. 2.”

Jones did some good things in New England but not good enough to be the future. Then he went to a broken franchise in Jacksonville. As a free agent, he made the same decision Sam Darnold did in 2023, opting to rebuild his confidence and his reputation by learning Shanahan’s system and backing up Purdy with a two-year, $7 million contract.

“I think every day you learn something new in the system,” Jones said. “I obviously get the chance to go out and play the game and feel things out. My first time taking real snaps in this offense. I’m looking forward to the growth that all of us will be able to do. I want to play better and put more points out there.”

Tight end Luke Farrell, a teammate in Jacksonville, believes he sees a difference in Jones.

“I think he’s great in the system,” Farrell said. “I think he’s taken another step in his development and his career and it’s been real cool to take the journey with him. He’s just a great guy to have in the room, real positive energy.”

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Jones likes to laugh and was labeled a “kind of a goofball” by Farrell. Nick Zakelj, the starter at right guard Saturday night, said his demeanor changes in the huddle.

“Mac’s one of the funnier guys I’ve come across,” Zakelj said. “Always has a smile on his face, brightening everybody’s days. It’s an infectious energy. But he’s still a commanding presence when it’s time for business.”

Jones also appears to have bonded with Purdy, who watched from the sideline and every so often gave his two cents’ worth.

“He was chewing on some sunflower seeds, enjoying the game,” Jones said. “He gave us our space and was encouraging everybody and just being Brock. We talked about the interception and what I can do better out there. It’s a group effort.”

Sounds like a plan. A backup plan.

Horoscopes Aug. 10, 2025: Antonio Banderas, think twice before signing agreements

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Josh Gates, 48; Justin Theroux, 54; Antonio Banderas, 65; Rosanna Arquette, 66.

Happy Birthday: Emotions and financial concerns may lead to unnecessary purchases this year. Think twice before signing agreements, getting involved in joint ventures or sharing expenses with a neighbor or friend. Be clear about what you are willing to contribute, and align yourself with people who prefer to work within established guidelines. Sticking to rules and regulations will help you maintain your status and increase your chances of advancement. Your numbers are 2, 13, 18, 25, 32, 41, 49.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Actively search for new ideas, concepts and ways to use your skills and experiences to get ahead. Networking events can pay off and provide connections to groups that lead to profits. A change in how you present and position yourself will encourage interest, valuable suggestions and potential partnerships. A domestic change requires financial restrictions. 3 stars

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Declutter your life from people, projects and pastimes that consume your schedule with little return. Arguing is a waste of time. Give others the same benefits you want for yourself. Stick to those who share your agenda, do your best and send those heading in a different direction on their way. 4 stars

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Rely on information, research and conversations that offer an inside view of a situation. Refuse to get involved in someone else’s drama or pay for their mistake. Separate yourself from situations that conflict with your ethical beliefs. You’ll make the most progress if you follow your intuition and work alone. Set high standards. 5 stars

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Take the guessing out of situations that appear to have a hidden agenda by asking direct questions. It’s up to you to gather sufficient information before participating. Acting in haste or taking on more than you can handle physically or financially will lead to conflict and regret. Focus on personal appearance and meaningful relationships. 3 stars

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Keep your finances, feelings and plans to yourself. Sharing too much information will make you vulnerable. Let your thoughts, plans and research lead the way, and your brute force will help you finish what you start. Avoid emotional spending and trying to buy love or favors. Your best return will come from discipline. 3 stars

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Spend more time with someone you love or those who are working toward a similar goal. Sharing will result in a better understanding of what you can accomplish. Don’t be shy; a bold voice will help you grab the attention of someone special. Partnerships, personal growth, love and opportunity are favored. 3 stars

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Chase your dreams, secure your position and use your connections to advance. Don’t let your guard down or give someone else an opportunity to capitalize on what you have strategically built to suit your needs. You can be helpful without paying the price. Don’t take unnecessary risks with your reputation, health or finances. 3 stars

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Short trips, reunions and research will all help you get a better understanding of yourself, what you want and how to go about achieving your goals. A physical change will lift your spirits and attract attention. Let your actions speak for you, and you’ll avoid a confrontation with someone trying to damage your reputation. 5 stars

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Home improvements or preparing to host an event will encourage creativity and a marked improvement as the day progresses. Your insight into investments and situations that concern you will lead to awareness and change your perspective regarding hope for a brighter future. Personal gains and positive modifications are favored. 2 stars

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Take nothing for granted. Shape your future by identifying opportunities that align directly with your goals and aspirations. Refuse to let outsiders interfere. Get agreements in writing and verify the information you receive before you sign on the dotted line. Allow ample time to cultivate meaningful relationships. Romance and makeovers are favored. 4 stars

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Take charge and get things done. Be the one to make a difference and push for those who can’t fend for themselves. Someone will recognize your input, and an unexpected reward will follow. Altering your lifestyle, home environment or position will lead to lower overhead or an influx of cash. 3 stars

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Let your emotions play out and your feelings be known. Direct your energy into personal improvements, social activity and spending time with someone you love. A change of scenery will spark your creativity and offer insight into something you want to pursue. Pay attention to your personal needs; a little pampering is encouraged. 3 stars

Birthday Baby: You are flippant, playful and engaging. You are possessive and upbeat.

1 star: Avoid conflicts; work behind the scenes.2 stars: You can accomplish, but don’t rely on others.3 stars: Focus and you’ll reach your goals.4 stars: Aim high; start new projects.5 stars: Nothing can stop you; go for gold.

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