THE HOT CORNER

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AUTO RACING: Kurt Busch will miss the start of NASCAR’S playoffs with concussion-like symptoms that have sidelined him six for weeks, meaning two spots in the 16-driver field will be open Saturday night in the regular-season finale at Daytona International Speedway. 23XI Racing on Thursday withdrew the medical waiver that was holding Busch’s spot in the playoffs.

PRO CYCLING: Remco Evenepoel took the leader’s red jersey on a wet and cold day at the Spanish Vuelta on Thursday, while Jay Wine overcame a flat tire to win the sixth stage and defending champion Primoz Roglic moved closer to the top. Evenepoel was second to Wine after a tough final climb, enough to put him 21 seconds ahead of previous overall leader Rudy Molard and 28 seconds in front of Enric Mas, who was third in a foggy finish.

PRO BASEBALL: Reigning

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National League MVP Bryce Harper is set to start for the Philadelphia Phillies tonight, just two months after his left thumb was broken by a pitch. Interim manager Rob Thomson announced Harper’s impending return from the IL Thursday after consulting with the star.

PRO HOCKEY: Columbus center 4

Alexandre Texier will not join the team for the upcoming season because of unspecified personal problems. The Blue Jackets said in a release Wednesday that the 22-year-old native of France will sit out “per the advice and recommendation of the NHL/ NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program.”

PRO BASKETBALL: Dewanna

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Bonner scored 21 points and the No. 3 seed Connecticut Sun eased past the Dallas Wings 73-58 on Wednesday night to advance to the WNBA semifinals. The Sun open play in a best-of-five series at the defending champion Chicago Sky on Sunday.