Masters Sensation Aaliyah Kikumoto Becomes Miami Dolphins Cheerleader; Readers Discuss Baseball Prospects, Grilling, and Soccer

As June draws to a close, this column features a guest writer filling in for the regular author. This marks the first of several contributions, which will continue until next Friday, with a break scheduled for Saturday. The interim writer will return from Sunday through Thursday, encouraging readers to continue submitting their correspondence.

Aaliyah Kikumoto Joins Miami Dolphins Cheerleading Squad

A notable development this week involves Aaliyah Kikumoto, widely recognized as the "Masters Girl." The former Texas Tech Pom Squad member, who achieved viral status during the Masters tournament several years ago, has now embarked on a professional cheerleading career, following in her mother's footsteps.

She recently confirmed her new position as a Miami Dolphins cheerleader.

"Still feels surreal getting to say… I AM A MIAMI DOLPHINS CHEERLEADER🧡🩵A HUGE thank you to @kashgarrett @alison_brooke @em_ehrl for believing in me and giving me this opportunity! I can’t wait to see what this next chapter brings and to represent this organization both on and off the field. This is seriously a dream come true. I’m so grateful for everyone who has supported me along the way and for the opportunity to continue doing what I love the most."

Kikumoto expressed her excitement on social media about becoming one of the newest Miami Dolphins cheerleaders.

Her transition from a collegiate dancer and internet personality to a professional cheerleader is not entirely unexpected, given her family background. Her mother, AJ Kikumoto, is a model and a former dancer for the Denver Nuggets.

Congratulations are extended to Aaliyah and her family on this significant career milestone, as joining the NFL is a considerable achievement. Her rookie season with the Dolphins will be closely watched.

Baseball Prospects and Pitching Debates

Reader Eric shared insights on promising young pitchers:

"Skenes is obviously great. But when the Mariners have there two minor leaguers Kade Anderson and Ryan Sloan both in the rotation in the next year or so, look out. They pitch double headers in AA Arkansas, mostly because the M’s already have too many good pitchers at the major league level. Either of them would be #2 or 3 on a lot of major rosters. Take a look.. Have a great day.."

SeanJo

The guest writer noted the challenge of keeping up with various farm systems, particularly while maintaining a personal disinterest in the Mariners organization. The focus remains on prospects once they reach the major leagues.

The writer also joked about the extent of their minor league interest, mentioning the Pittsburgh Pirates (acknowledging they are a major league team) and expressing anticipation for Paul Skenes' potential call-up to the Bronx.

From Petit Steaks to Smoked Chickens: Grilling Enthusiasts Share

Jim T from San Diego submitted a photo of his grilling efforts:

"Just some petit steaks - a minute a side"

SeanJo

The interim writer praised Jim's use of a charcoal grill and the choice of petit steaks, noting that other readers also shared their charcoal grilling experiences, encouraging continued submissions of outdoor cooking photos.

Another reader, Guy, detailed a recent camping trip:

"Nice little camp trip last weekend. My travel charcoal grill looked great!"

SeanJo

This submission was well-received, highlighting the appeal of a camping trip featuring a portable charcoal grill and cooked meat. The only missing element, the writer playfully remarked, would have been a Bigfoot sighting for a truly perfect trip, though acknowledging the trip was likely enjoyable nonetheless.

Glyn contributed an update on a smoking session:

"I forgot to take a before and during pictures. 4 chickens on the Oklahoma Joe smoker #notsponsered, pecan and apple wood. Final results.."

SeanJo

Responding to Glyn's omission of "before" and "during" photos, the writer reassured that there's no "meat shaming" in this column, encouraging readers to send in photos of their finished dishes. The writer affirmed that smoked meat is always a welcome sight.

Observations on Soccer and Celebrity Sightings

Jonathan shared an observation regarding actor Brad Pitt during a recent US soccer match:

"Hey Sean- Brad Pitt either has Parkinson’s or dude did an 8 ball during the hydration break. I’m leaning towards the 8 ball as he was rather 'stable' during first half of US match when cameras panned to Brad and Ed Norton…"

Greg from Nebraska also weighed in on soccer, addressing the temporary writer directly:

"Hi Sean. Thanks for taking the reins while Joe is golfing. I’ve been watching USA play soccer tonight and my family wants to know why no body from a soccer group, federation or whatever the governing body is called, has ever heard of a stop watch for keeping time."

Greg concluded his message by clarifying, "Greg in Nebraska, but not the miserable guy who hates America."

SeanJo

Addressing the soccer comments, the guest writer acknowledged the USMNT's recent game and loss but admitted to not watching any of it. While aware of social media discussions about Brad Pitt, the writer had no direct knowledge of his post-hydration break demeanor.

The writer clarified a consistent stance on soccer, stating a general lack of interest outside of major events like the World Cup, and even then, often focusing on fan culture rather than the game itself. The writer noted that the sport would need a deep tournament run to capture their full attention.

The perceived ubiquitous promotion of soccer throughout life was cited as a reason for this lack of interest, suggesting that organic growth might have led to a different perspective. Despite this, the writer admitted confusion regarding stoppage time and how officials manage game duration, indicating that a significant World Cup performance might prompt further engagement.

This concludes the first installment from the guest writer. Several emails were not addressed this morning but will be covered along with new submissions. The column will resume on Sunday.