BATTER UP: REPUBLIC'S
YOUNG HITTERS

Republic is preparing for the new major-league season. Known for its murderers’ row of sluggers—The Weeknd, Drake, Taylor Swift, Post Malone and Ariana Grande—the House of Lipman last season added rookie sensation Morgan Wallen to the lineup. (There’s also word of a big impending trade for a veteran .300 hitter.) Because of the new DH rule, the club has been concentrating on its farm system and has developed some top young talent.

Monte, Spanky, Roppo, Goldstein, The Bambino

Breakout Brits Glass Animals continue to have a big fly on their hands with the indefatigable “Heat Waves.” K-pop group Stray Kids (JYP/Imperial via Ingrooves) are poised to knock a #1 bow over the fence and are tearing up spring training. Meanwhile, hot prospects Lauren Spencer-Smith (a splashy co-signing with Island), Coi Leray, BoyWithUke and Em Beihold are all looking to make a substantial contribution this season, bolstered by one of the best pitching rotations in the league, including Spanky the Flamethrower, Roppo and Goldstein.

Republic, a prior Eastern Division champ, is in full hustle mode as the drive for the pennant race ramps up. Will they get to the World Series this season?