Shohei Ohtani hits solo homer in return to Japan, leading Dodgers' powerful offense to 6-3 win over the Cubs  —  TOKYO — Shohei Ohtani hit a solo homer in his return to the Tokyo Dome, Roki Sasaki threw three eventful innings in his big-league debut and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat …

Celtics sold to William Chisholm, California private-equity director, for $6.1 billion  —  The Celtics ownership group has agreed to sell the team to William Chisholm, managing director and co-founder of Symphony Technology Group, for a record $6.1 billion, a league source told the Globe on Thursday.

Defense Dept. restores story on Jackie Robinson military service  —  The Department of Defense restored a story on its website highlighting Jackie Robinson's military service Wednesday after deleting it as part of President Donald Trump's efforts to purge references to diversity, equity and inclusion through a “digital content refresh.”

Braves sign nine-time All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel to minor league deal  —  ATLANTA — Nine-time All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel is attempting to revive his career with the Atlanta Braves, his original team.  —  Kimbrel and catcher James McCann have agreed to minor league contracts, the team confirmed on Wednesday.

Former Cy Young Award winner Jake Peavy returns to Padres as special assistant to CEO  —  SAN DIEGO — Jake Peavy, the 2007 NL Cy Young Award winner and member of the San Diego Padres Hall of Fame, has joined the team as special assistant to CEO Erik Greupner.

How Bronny James Has Navigated Criticism to Take a Huge Step Forward  —  LOS ANGELES — I chatted with Bronny James this week.  —  An interview was scheduled, but before it, he told Lakers public-relations staff he couldn't quite place a face with my name.

Free-agent WR Stefon Diggs visiting with Patriots: Source  —  The New England Patriots could soon be landing some much-needed wide receiver help — and it's a big name.  —  Stefon Diggs, a 10-year veteran and former All-Pro with six 1,000-yard seasons, is in Foxboro, Mass., visiting with the team, according to a league source.

Red Sox give Marcelo Mayer an extended look at second base  —  FORT MYERS, Fla. — Marcelo Mayer played three innings at second base on Tuesday and started there on Wednesday.  —  It marked the first time Mayer had played anywhere other than shortstop or third base in his professional career.

Pirates' Jared Jones to miss next spring training start with elbow issues  —  Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Jared Jones is missing his next spring training start because of elbow discomfort.  Jones went 6-8 with a 4.14 ERA last season, combining with Paul Skenes to form an impressive rookie tandem …

Yankees ‘surprised’ Alex Verdugo remains a free agent  —  TAMPA, Fla. — Several New York Yankees are curious as to why former teammate Alex Verdugo hasn't signed with a team yet.  —  “I am surprised,” right fielder Aaron Judge said.  “He's such a great player.  He brings so much value and versatility to a team.”