The Calgary Flames went into the season as expected sellers but instead have emerged into playoff contenders in the Western Conference.

NEW YORK (AP) — The rate of increase for Major League Baseball’s average salary slowed to 2.9% last year to a record $4.66 million, according to the annual report of the players’ association.

After declining to $3.68 million in 2021, a year following the pandemic-shortened season, the average rose 23% over the next two seasons. Union figures are based on the 2024 salaries, earned ...