Etc. …

BASEBALL: Former Chicago Cubs and Boston Red Sox executive Theo Epstein has been hired by Major League Baseball as a consultant for on-field matters and will evaluate possible rule changes. … Left-hander Alex Wood, who pitched two perfect innings in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ title-winning Game 6 World Series victory over Tampa Bay, agreed to a $3 million, one-year contract with the San Francisco Giants on Thursday.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL: Four stars from Alabama’s national championship team, including Heisman Trophy finalist quarterback Mac Jones, are leaving early to enter the NFL draft. Jones, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, cornerback Patrick Surtain II and defensive lineman Christian Barmore announced their intentions to leave on Thursday — all are considered potential first-round picks. … Florida welcomed ex-Auburn defensive tackle Daquan Newkirk to the program Thursday, one week after landing ex-Penn State defensive tackle Antonio Shelton.