By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, who signed a new two-year deal in April, said Tuesday that he wants to keep playing football “until the wheels come off" after the first day of the team's mandatory three-day minicamp.

The 34-year-old Kelce signed a four-year, $57.25 million extension with Kansas City in 2020, which followed a $46 million, five-year deal that he signed in 2016. The latest $34.25 million pact ties Kelce to the team through the 2025 season.

“Kansas City has been home for me for the past 11 years. I'm reminded that every time I come back to the city,” Kelce said. “I do take the offseasons to get away and kind of recharge, but at the same time, I'm a football player. I love playing in the NFL."

Still, Kelce acknowledged that the end of his career is much closer than the beginning, and that has fueled his desire to cross over into different avenues of sports and entertainment. He hosts one of the most popular podcasts across several genres with his brother and former Eagles center Jason Kelce, and he will soon host a quiz show on Amazon Prime.

He also has made appearances on such shows as “Saturday Night Live” and intends to continue dabbling in acting.

Then there is Kelce's relationship with pop icon Taylor Swift, which has elevated him to another level of celebrity. It has helped him become of the NFL's most widely known players, despite playing a position often considered far from glamorous.

“I can't put a timeframe on it,” Kelce said of retirement. "Man, I love coming to work every single day. I know there's opportunity outside of football for me, and I think you got to keep in perspective that I'm a little kid when I come into this building, man.

“I know I'm 34 years old — about to be 35 (in October) — but I have a lot to do right here, in the middle of the heat in June,” he continued. “I love coming to work every single day doing this. I'm going to do it until the wheels come off. Hopefully that doesn't happen any time soon. But I definitely know it's closer to the end of the road than the beginning of it.”

Kelce was chosen by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2013 draft, and despite missing almost all of his rookie season to a knee injury, has already become their career leader with 11,328 yards receiving. He needs 10 receptions to reach 917 and pass Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez for that record, and three touchdown catches would give him 77, dropping Gonzalez to No. 2 on that franchise list — both marks that he should reach in the first couple of weeks of this upcoming season.

“The odds of someone playing this far into their 30s is low,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach admitted recently, “but it does happen. There are unicorns in the profession and Travis is one of those. He’s shown no signs of slowing down.”

In other news Tuesday, Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker was absent with an illness while guard Joe Thuney was missing while continuing his recovery from surgery on a pectoral injury. Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, defensive end Charles Omenihu and wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, were present but did not practice.

The three-day minicamp concludes Thursday, when the Chiefs have their Super Bowl ring ceremony.

“I’m sure when I unbox that ring it’s going to be special," Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said. "There’s going to be a sentimental value attached to that that you can’t necessarily replicate. It’s going to be a fun night with teammates, seeing guys that are no longer here anymore and being able to reunite with those guys. It’s going to be fun.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718359530579.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) and tight end Travis Kelce (87) talk during NFL football practice Tuesday, June 11, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) and tight end Travis Kelce (87) talk during NFL football practice Tuesday, June 11, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, who signed a new two-year deal in April, said Tuesday that he wants to keep playing football “until the wheels come off" after the first day of the team's mandatory three-day minicamp.The 34-year-old Kelce signed a four-year, $57.25 million extension with Kansas City in 2020, which followed a $46 million, five-year deal that he signed in 2016. The latest $34.25 million pact ties Kelce to the team through the 2025 season.“Kansas City has been home for me for the past 11 years. I'm reminded that every time I come back to the city,” Kelce said. “I do take the offseasons to get away and kind of recharge, but at the same time, I'm a football player. I love playing in the NFL."Still, Kelce acknowledged that the end of his career is much closer than the beginning, and that has fueled his desire to cross over into different avenues of sports and entertainment. He hosts one of the most popular podcasts across several genres with his brother and former Eagles center Jason Kelce, and he will soon host a quiz show on Amazon Prime.He also has made appearances on such shows as “Saturday Night Live” and intends to continue dabbling in acting.Then there is Kelce's relationship with pop icon Taylor Swift, which has elevated him to another level of celebrity. It has helped him become of the NFL's most widely known players, despite playing a position often considered far from glamorous.“I can't put a timeframe on it,” Kelce said of retirement. "Man, I love coming to work every single day. I know there's opportunity outside of football for me, and I think you got to keep in perspective that I'm a little kid when I come into this building, man.“I know I'm 34 years old — about to be 35 (in October) — but I have a lot to do right here, in the middle of the heat in June,” he continued. “I love coming to work every single day doing this. I'm going to do it until the wheels come off. Hopefully that doesn't happen any time soon. But I definitely know it's closer to the end of the road than the beginning of it.”Kelce was chosen by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2013 draft, and despite missing almost all of his rookie season to a knee injury, has already become their career leader with 11,328 yards receiving. He needs 10 receptions to reach 917 and pass Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez for that record, and three touchdown catches would give him 77, dropping Gonzalez to No. 2 on that franchise list — both marks that he should reach in the first couple of weeks of this upcoming season.“The odds of someone playing this far into their 30s is low,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach admitted recently, “but it does happen. There are unicorns in the profession and Travis is one of those. He’s shown no signs of slowing down.”In other news Tuesday, Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker was absent with an illness while guard Joe Thuney was missing while continuing his recovery from surgery on a pectoral injury. Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, defensive end Charles Omenihu and wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, were present but did not practice.The three-day minicamp concludes Thursday, when the Chiefs have their Super Bowl ring ceremony.“I’m sure when I unbox that ring it’s going to be special," Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said. "There’s going to be a sentimental value attached to that that you can’t necessarily replicate. It’s going to be a fun night with teammates, seeing guys that are no longer here anymore and being able to reunite with those guys. It’s going to be fun.”

🏈Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce says he wants to keep playing football 'until the wheels come off'

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals placed outfielder Hunter Renfroe on the injured list with a fractured toe and infielder Adam Frazier on the bereavement list ahead of the second game of their four-game set against the New York Yankees on Tuesday night.

The Royals recalled outfielder Drew Waters and infielder Nick Pratto from Triple-A Omaha to take their place.

Renfroe was riding a nine-game hitting streak into Monday night's game when he squared off with Yankees left-hander Carlos Rodón in the third inning. Renfroe fouled consecutive pitches off his left foot during the 12-pitch at-bat, but nothing appeared to be amiss until the Royals removed him from the game a couple of innings later in an eventual&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yankees-royals-score-rodon-ebf3ab63920e46825e3866a5549afcf5">4-2 loss</a>.

Renfroe got off to a slow start this season but had bumped his batting average to .200 with six homers and 26 RBIs.

The Royals had been watching Waters closely at Omaha, where the 25-year-old switch-hitter was hitting .277 with seven homers and 33 RBIs through 50 games. Pratto was hitting .234 with seven homers and 30 RBIs in 53 games there.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718114929294.png" alt="File photo Kansas City Royals’ Hunter Renfroe lines out againsts Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Emmanuel Clase during the ninth inning of a baseball game in Cleveland, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Phil Long)" />
 <figcaption>File photo Kansas City Royals’ Hunter Renfroe lines out againsts Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Emmanuel Clase during the ninth inning of a baseball game in Cleveland, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Phil Long)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals placed outfielder Hunter Renfroe on the injured list with a fractured toe and infielder Adam Frazier on the bereavement list ahead of the second game of their four-game set against the New York Yankees on Tuesday night.The Royals recalled outfielder Drew Waters and infielder Nick Pratto from Triple-A Omaha to take their place.Renfroe was riding a nine-game hitting streak into Monday night's game when he squared off with Yankees left-hander Carlos Rodón in the third inning. Renfroe fouled consecutive pitches off his left foot during the 12-pitch at-bat, but nothing appeared to be amiss until the Royals removed him from the game a couple of innings later in an eventual&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yankees-royals-score-rodon-ebf3ab63920e46825e3866a5549afcf5">4-2 loss</a>.Renfroe got off to a slow start this season but had bumped his batting average to .200 with six homers and 26 RBIs.The Royals had been watching Waters closely at Omaha, where the 25-year-old switch-hitter was hitting .277 with seven homers and 33 RBIs through 50 games. Pratto was hitting .234 with seven homers and 30 RBIs in 53 games there.

Royals put Renfroe on IL with fracture toe

Tuesday, June 11
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pm

Wednesday, June 12
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pm

Thursday, June 13
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
12:30pm

Friday, June 14
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 8:30pm

Saturday, June 15
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 7:30pm

Sunday, June 16
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 2:30pm

Tuesday, June 11
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pmWednesday, June 12
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pmThursday, June 13
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
12:30pmFriday, June 14
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 8:30pmSaturday, June 15
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 7:30pmSunday, June 16
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 2:30pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Carlos Rodón pitched shutout ball into the seventh inning in his return to the mound where he hit his low point last September, winning his seventh straight start and leading the New York Yankees over the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Monday night.

Juan Soto rejoined the Yankees lineup after missing a three-game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers because of left forearm inflammation. He went 1 for 3 with a run and a walk as the designated hitter.

“I did all my treatment early today and I went to the cages making sure everything went fine and it did,” Soto said. “I've been seeing a lot of improvement. Definitely, it's not going to go away that quick.”

AL-best New York (47-21) won for the 10th time in 13 games and improved to 15-1 against the AL Central. Aaron Boone got his 556th victory, tying Billy Martin for seventh among Yankees managers.

After arriving in Kansas City at 3 a.m. following a Sunday night game in the Bronx, the Yankees gave Aaron Judge his first game off this season and rested slumping Anthony Rizzo and Giancarlo Stanton.

Rodón (9-2) allowed one run and five hits in seven innings, giving up Freddy Fermin’s RBI single in the seventh. He has a 2.93 ERA in 14 starts.

Bobby Witt Jr. had an RBI single in the eighth off Ian Hamilton.

Michael Tonkin worked around a walk in the ninth for his second big league save and first since last year with Atlanta. Yankees closer Clay Holmes pitched three of the previous four days.

A 34-year-old who made his major league debut in 2013, Tonkin was cut by Minnesota and the New York Mets (twice) in April.

“The first month was less than ideal, but to be here now, it's all worth it,” said Tonkin, who has increased his two-seam fastball and slider usage. “It's good to get in a groove and get comfortable and be in a position where I feel like I'm not scared that I'm going to get tapped on the shoulder after every game.”

In the final start of his first Yankees season, Rodón allowed all eight batters he faced to reach base last Sept. 29 in a 12-5 loss that dropped him to 3-8 with a 6.85 ERA in 14 starts.

When pitching coach Matt Blake came out of the dugout in an attempt to get him on track,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yankees-new-york-rodon-ba0bb25e612bbe351f14de4da876a13e">the two exchanged a few words before Rodón turned his back on Blake</a>&nbsp;and gestured for him to return to the dugout, even though the coach was still talking. Rodón blamed himself for feeling frustrated at his performance.

“I knew this game was coming and it was circled on the calendar and I wanted to show up and give my team the best chance to win after coming out of here last year over what happened and not pitching well,” Rodón said. “I tried to flush it early on but it's hard to get that one out of your head. It wasn't just one start. It was a culmination of the whole ‘23 — wasn't so great, so that definitely motivated me.”

Alex Verdugo hit a go-ahead single in a two-run first on a grounder that glanced off the glove of a diving Witt in the shortstop hole. Verdugo scored on DJ LeMahieu’s safety squeeze against Seth Lugo (9-2), one of three sacrifice bunts by the Yankees.

Jose Trevino boosted the lead to 4-0 with a two-run single in the fourth that followed Jahmai Jones’ bunt.

Lugo gave up four runs on eight hits in seven innings and lost for the first time since April 21 after going 6-0 over eight starts. He has allowed nine runs in his last two starts, raising his ERA from 1.72 to 2.36.

“I thought I threw the ball well," Lugo said.

Kansas City has lost nine of 14 following an eight-game winning streak.

Dan Altavilla, a 31-year-old right-hander brought up from Triple-A Omaha, pitched a perfect eighth for the Royals in his first major league appearance since April 16, 2021, for San Diego.

Yankees: RHP Gerrit Cole (right elbow inflammation) is scheduled to make a third minor league rehab start on Friday.

Royals:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-renfroe-royals-broken-toe-36f155848426a6e26e110ac1be4a03ee">RF Hunter Renfroe broke his left big toe</a>&nbsp;when he fouled off two curveballs in the third inning. He played the field in the fourth but was removed at the start of the fifth. ... RHP Michael Wacha (broken left foot) will throw a bullpen Tuesday. ... 2B Michael Massey (sprained lower back) took swings and played catch in his first day of baseball activities since leaving a May 24 game.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Carlos Rodón pitched shutout ball into the seventh inning in his return to the mound where he hit his low point last September, winning his seventh straight start and leading the New York Yankees over the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Monday night.Juan Soto rejoined the Yankees lineup after missing a three-game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers because of left forearm inflammation. He went 1 for 3 with a run and a walk as the designated hitter.“I did all my treatment early today and I went to the cages making sure everything went fine and it did,” Soto said. “I've been seeing a lot of improvement. Definitely, it's not going to go away that quick.”AL-best New York (47-21) won for the 10th time in 13 games and improved to 15-1 against the AL Central. Aaron Boone got his 556th victory, tying Billy Martin for seventh among Yankees managers.After arriving in Kansas City at 3 a.m. following a Sunday night game in the Bronx, the Yankees gave Aaron Judge his first game off this season and rested slumping Anthony Rizzo and Giancarlo Stanton.Rodón (9-2) allowed one run and five hits in seven innings, giving up Freddy Fermin’s RBI single in the seventh. He has a 2.93 ERA in 14 starts.Bobby Witt Jr. had an RBI single in the eighth off Ian Hamilton.Michael Tonkin worked around a walk in the ninth for his second big league save and first since last year with Atlanta. Yankees closer Clay Holmes pitched three of the previous four days.A 34-year-old who made his major league debut in 2013, Tonkin was cut by Minnesota and the New York Mets (twice) in April.“The first month was less than ideal, but to be here now, it's all worth it,” said Tonkin, who has increased his two-seam fastball and slider usage. “It's good to get in a groove and get comfortable and be in a position where I feel like I'm not scared that I'm going to get tapped on the shoulder after every game.”In the final start of his first Yankees season, Rodón allowed all eight batters he faced to reach base last Sept. 29 in a 12-5 loss that dropped him to 3-8 with a 6.85 ERA in 14 starts.When pitching coach Matt Blake came out of the dugout in an attempt to get him on track,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yankees-new-york-rodon-ba0bb25e612bbe351f14de4da876a13e">the two exchanged a few words before Rodón turned his back on Blake</a>&nbsp;and gestured for him to return to the dugout, even though the coach was still talking. Rodón blamed himself for feeling frustrated at his performance.“I knew this game was coming and it was circled on the calendar and I wanted to show up and give my team the best chance to win after coming out of here last year over what happened and not pitching well,” Rodón said. “I tried to flush it early on but it's hard to get that one out of your head. It wasn't just one start. It was a culmination of the whole ‘23 — wasn't so great, so that definitely motivated me.”Alex Verdugo hit a go-ahead single in a two-run first on a grounder that glanced off the glove of a diving Witt in the shortstop hole. Verdugo scored on DJ LeMahieu’s safety squeeze against Seth Lugo (9-2), one of three sacrifice bunts by the Yankees.Jose Trevino boosted the lead to 4-0 with a two-run single in the fourth that followed Jahmai Jones’ bunt.Lugo gave up four runs on eight hits in seven innings and lost for the first time since April 21 after going 6-0 over eight starts. He has allowed nine runs in his last two starts, raising his ERA from 1.72 to 2.36.“I thought I threw the ball well," Lugo said.Kansas City has lost nine of 14 following an eight-game winning streak.Dan Altavilla, a 31-year-old right-hander brought up from Triple-A Omaha, pitched a perfect eighth for the Royals in his first major league appearance since April 16, 2021, for San Diego.TRAINER’S ROOMYankees: RHP Gerrit Cole (right elbow inflammation) is scheduled to make a third minor league rehab start on Friday.Royals:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-renfroe-royals-broken-toe-36f155848426a6e26e110ac1be4a03ee">RF Hunter Renfroe broke his left big toe</a>&nbsp;when he fouled off two curveballs in the third inning. He played the field in the fourth but was removed at the start of the fifth. ... RHP Michael Wacha (broken left foot) will throw a bullpen Tuesday. ... 2B Michael Massey (sprained lower back) took swings and played catch in his first day of baseball activities since leaving a May 24 game.UP NEXT

⚾Rodón wins his 7th straight as Yankees top the Royals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Royals outfielder Hunter Renfroe fractured his left big toe when he twice fouled off pitches from New York Yankees left-hander Carlos Rodón in the third inning on Monday night.

Renfroe fouled off seven pitches before striking out in a 12-pitch at-bat. He fouled the fourth pitch, a curveball, off the toe and fell to one knee and grimaced. He walked around in foul territory by the backstop, then stepped back into the batter's box after about 45 seconds.

Two pitches later, Renfroe fouled another curveball off the foot and hopped away from the box. He felt the toe and got back in the box about 40 seconds later.

After striking out, Renfroe went to right field in the fourth inning but was removed at the start of the fifth.

Renfroe, 32, is hitting .200 with six homers and 26 RBIs. A veteran of nine major league seasons, he agreed with Kansas City in December on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-renfroe-contract-be617f9481d4474e22f8886b48ea330d">$13 million, two-year contract</a>.

Renfroe is a .237 career hitter with 183 homers and 480 RBIs for San Diego (2016-19), Toronto (2020), Boston (2021), Milwaukee (2022), the Los Angeles Angels (2023), Cincinnati (2023) and Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718073233917.png" alt="Hunter Renfroe photo KC Royals" />
 <figcaption>Hunter Renfroe photo KC Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Royals outfielder Hunter Renfroe fractured his left big toe when he twice fouled off pitches from New York Yankees left-hander Carlos Rodón in the third inning on Monday night.Renfroe fouled off seven pitches before striking out in a 12-pitch at-bat. He fouled the fourth pitch, a curveball, off the toe and fell to one knee and grimaced. He walked around in foul territory by the backstop, then stepped back into the batter's box after about 45 seconds.Two pitches later, Renfroe fouled another curveball off the foot and hopped away from the box. He felt the toe and got back in the box about 40 seconds later.After striking out, Renfroe went to right field in the fourth inning but was removed at the start of the fifth.Renfroe, 32, is hitting .200 with six homers and 26 RBIs. A veteran of nine major league seasons, he agreed with Kansas City in December on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-renfroe-contract-be617f9481d4474e22f8886b48ea330d">$13 million, two-year contract</a>.Renfroe is a .237 career hitter with 183 homers and 480 RBIs for San Diego (2016-19), Toronto (2020), Boston (2021), Milwaukee (2022), the Los Angeles Angels (2023), Cincinnati (2023) and Kansas City.

Royals' Hunter Renfroe fractures big toe after twice fouling off pitches

Monday, June 10
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
6:30pm

Monday, June 10
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
6:30pmTuesday, June 11
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pmWednesday, June 12
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pmThursday, June 13
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
12:30pmFriday, June 14
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 8:30pmSaturday, June 15
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 7:30pmSunday, June 16
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 2:30pm

The Hays Larks closed out a three-game weekend sweep of the Denver Cougars with a 10-2 win Sunday at Larks Park. 

Wilbert Espinal was three for four
and drove in a pair of runs for the Larks as they won their fourth in a row. 

The
Larks are 2-0 in Rocky Mountain Baseball League play. 

They have Monday off
before hosting the Dodge City A’s in a league game on Tuesday. 

Hays PostThe Hays Larks closed out a three-game weekend sweep of the Denver Cougars with a 10-2 win Sunday at Larks Park. Wilbert Espinal was three for four
and drove in a pair of runs for the Larks as they won their fourth in a row. The
Larks are 2-0 in Rocky Mountain Baseball League play. They have Monday off
before hosting the Dodge City A’s in a league game on Tuesday.

⚾Larks complete sweep of Cougars

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Julio Rodríguez hit a tiebreaking single in the 10th inning, Cal Raleigh added a two-run single and the Seattle Mariners held off the Kansas City Royals 6-5 on Sunday to avoid getting swept for the first time this season.

J.P. Crawford hit his second consecutive leadoff homer and George Kirby pitched seven splendid innings for the AL West leaders, who lost the first two games of the weekend series. Seattle squandered a two-run lead in the ninth but recovered to halt Kansas City's three-game winning streak.

MJ Melendez hit a two-run homer off Mariners reliever Mike Baumann (3-0) with two outs in the ninth to tie it 3-all.

Hunter Renfroe launched a two-run homer in the 10th for Kansas City, but it wasn't enough.

With runners at the corners and two outs in the 10th, Rodríguez singled to right field off James McArthur (2-3) to break a 3-all tie. Mitch Garver walked and Raleigh followed with a two-run single to make it 6-3.

Renfroe led off the bottom half with a two-run homer against Austin Voth, and Kyle Isbel singled. But then Voth retired the next two batters, including Bobby Witt Jr., and Taylor Saucedo got Vinnie Pasquantino on a game-ending grounder for his third save.

Making his major league debut, Tyler Locklear broke a 1-all tie with a seventh-inning double and scored on pinch-hitter Josh Rojas’ single to give Seattle a 3-1 lead.

Kirby permitted just two hits over the first four scoreless innings. Freddy Fermin and Renfroe hit consecutive singles in the fifth before Isbel’s squeeze bunt tied the game.

Kirby completed seven innings, allowing a run on five hits with four strikeouts.

Crawford led off with a homer for the second straight game, his 12th career leadoff shot and fifth since 2023 — most in the majors.

It was the first home run given up by Royals starter Cole Ragans since May 11.

Ragans retired 12 of the next 13 batters — eight by strikeout — and finished six innings. He allowed just one run on three hits and a walk, fanning nine.

Seattle placed 1B Ty France on the 10-day injured list with a fractured right heel and called up Locklear from Triple-A Tacoma. RHP Matt Bowman was selected from Tacoma and RHP Collin Snider was optioned to Tacoma. RHPs Levi Stoudt and Eduardo Salazar were designated for assignment.

Mariners RHP Logan Gilbert (3-4, 3.12 ERA) opposes White Sox RHP Erick Fedde (4-1, 3.27) on Monday night at home.

Kansas City had not announced a starter for its series opener at home against LHP Carlos Rodón (8-2, 3.08 ERA) and the New York Yankees.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Julio Rodríguez hit a tiebreaking single in the 10th inning, Cal Raleigh added a two-run single and the Seattle Mariners held off the Kansas City Royals 6-5 on Sunday to avoid getting swept for the first time this season.J.P. Crawford hit his second consecutive leadoff homer and George Kirby pitched seven splendid innings for the AL West leaders, who lost the first two games of the weekend series. Seattle squandered a two-run lead in the ninth but recovered to halt Kansas City's three-game winning streak.MJ Melendez hit a two-run homer off Mariners reliever Mike Baumann (3-0) with two outs in the ninth to tie it 3-all.Hunter Renfroe launched a two-run homer in the 10th for Kansas City, but it wasn't enough.With runners at the corners and two outs in the 10th, Rodríguez singled to right field off James McArthur (2-3) to break a 3-all tie. Mitch Garver walked and Raleigh followed with a two-run single to make it 6-3.Renfroe led off the bottom half with a two-run homer against Austin Voth, and Kyle Isbel singled. But then Voth retired the next two batters, including Bobby Witt Jr., and Taylor Saucedo got Vinnie Pasquantino on a game-ending grounder for his third save.Making his major league debut, Tyler Locklear broke a 1-all tie with a seventh-inning double and scored on pinch-hitter Josh Rojas’ single to give Seattle a 3-1 lead.Kirby permitted just two hits over the first four scoreless innings. Freddy Fermin and Renfroe hit consecutive singles in the fifth before Isbel’s squeeze bunt tied the game.Kirby completed seven innings, allowing a run on five hits with four strikeouts.Crawford led off with a homer for the second straight game, his 12th career leadoff shot and fifth since 2023 — most in the majors.It was the first home run given up by Royals starter Cole Ragans since May 11.Ragans retired 12 of the next 13 batters — eight by strikeout — and finished six innings. He allowed just one run on three hits and a walk, fanning nine.TRAINER'S ROOMSeattle placed 1B Ty France on the 10-day injured list with a fractured right heel and called up Locklear from Triple-A Tacoma. RHP Matt Bowman was selected from Tacoma and RHP Collin Snider was optioned to Tacoma. RHPs Levi Stoudt and Eduardo Salazar were designated for assignment.UP NEXTMariners RHP Logan Gilbert (3-4, 3.12 ERA) opposes White Sox RHP Erick Fedde (4-1, 3.27) on Monday night at home.Kansas City had not announced a starter for its series opener at home against LHP Carlos Rodón (8-2, 3.08 ERA) and the New York Yankees.

⚾ Seattle scores 3 in the 10th to hold off the Royals

Sunday, June 9 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 12:30pm&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sunday, June 9 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 12:30pm&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hays Larks host the Denver Cougars Saturday&nbsp;at Larks Park.

First pitch for game one is set for 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;

&nbsp; You can view the can on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qsIGwcggfI">Larks YouTube channel.</a>

Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Larks host the Denver Cougars Saturday&nbsp;at Larks Park.First pitch for game one is set for 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp; You can view the can on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qsIGwcggfI">Larks YouTube channel.</a>Saturday is the annual McKids game.Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

⚾🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays Larks host Denver Cougars

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit a tiebreaking&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/luis-castillo-in-play-run-s-to-vinnie-pasquantino-aeanpa">two-run double</a>&nbsp;during Kansas City’s three-run fifth inning, and the Royals beat the Seattle Mariners 8-4 on Saturday.

Kyle Isbel had three RBIs for Kansas City, and Adam Frazier had two hits and scored two runs. The Royals earned their third consecutive win.

Kansas City trailed 3-2 before Frazier doubled and scored on Nick Loftin’s single in the fifth. With two outs and runners on the corners, Pasquantino slapped a grounder inside the first base bag.

“Guys seem to be putting together some really nice at-bats right now,” Pasquantino said. “Two-out, runners-in-scoring-position hits, that’s going to win you some games.”

J.P. Crawford and Mitch Garver homered for Seattle. Crawford finished with two hits and two RBIs.

Mariners right-hander Luis Castillo (5-7) permitted a season-high five runs in five innings. He allowed six hits, struck out four and walked one.

“Early in the game, nothing was easy,” Mariners manager Scott Servais said. “They were making him work through at-bats. They got a couple of huge two-out, two-run doubles that spread the gap. We weren’t able to overcome it.”

Said Castillo: “Two pitches I kind of left up there and those were the two pitches that cost us the game.”

Crawford put Seattle in front when he drilled Alec Marsh’s first pitch of the game for his fifth homer of the season. It was Crawford’s 11th career leadoff homer.

“First pitch of the game you’re not really expecting a home run, but I was able to bounce back,” Marsh said.

Marsh retired his next 13 batters — eight on strikeouts — before Garver’s seventh homer off the left-field foul pole tied it at 2 with one out in the fifth inning.

“He was locating all his stuff,” Garver said. “We put ourselves in poor counts. He was able to strike out eight real quick. Not a lot going for us in the first five.”

Three straight two-out singles, capped by Crawford’s grounder through the middle, produced another run for the Mariners.

Marsh (5-3) struck out a season-high eight in five-plus innings. He was charged with four runs and seven hits.

“His stuff was really good,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “That was the best I’ve seen his curveball and sweeper in a long time. Got a lot of swing and miss on it.”

Maikel Garcia hit a leadoff single in the first for Kansas City. He stole second and scored on Salvador Perez’s single.

“Good at-bats, right from the get-go, making Castillo work,” Quatraro said. “We put pressure on him, no easy outs, right from Maikel’s at-bat to start the game. To get him out of there after five was huge.”

Frazier made it 2-1 with a solo drive in the second for his second homer.

Isbel extended Kansas City’s lead to 7-4 with a two-run double with two out in the sixth against Kirby Snead. Isbel added a sacrifice fly in the eighth.

Mariners IF Ty France was scratched from the lineup due to soreness in his right heel.

Mariners RHP George Kirby (5-5, 4.05 ERA) opposes Royals LHP Cole Ragans (4-4, 3.21).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717912050137.png" alt="Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino celebrated with teammates after Saturday's 8-4 win over Seattle. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino celebrated with teammates after Saturday's 8-4 win over Seattle. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit a tiebreaking&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/luis-castillo-in-play-run-s-to-vinnie-pasquantino-aeanpa">two-run double</a>&nbsp;during Kansas City’s three-run fifth inning, and the Royals beat the Seattle Mariners 8-4 on Saturday.Kyle Isbel had three RBIs for Kansas City, and Adam Frazier had two hits and scored two runs. The Royals earned their third consecutive win.Kansas City trailed 3-2 before Frazier doubled and scored on Nick Loftin’s single in the fifth. With two outs and runners on the corners, Pasquantino slapped a grounder inside the first base bag.“Guys seem to be putting together some really nice at-bats right now,” Pasquantino said. “Two-out, runners-in-scoring-position hits, that’s going to win you some games.”J.P. Crawford and Mitch Garver homered for Seattle. Crawford finished with two hits and two RBIs.Mariners right-hander Luis Castillo (5-7) permitted a season-high five runs in five innings. He allowed six hits, struck out four and walked one.“Early in the game, nothing was easy,” Mariners manager Scott Servais said. “They were making him work through at-bats. They got a couple of huge two-out, two-run doubles that spread the gap. We weren’t able to overcome it.”Said Castillo: “Two pitches I kind of left up there and those were the two pitches that cost us the game.”Crawford put Seattle in front when he drilled Alec Marsh’s first pitch of the game for his fifth homer of the season. It was Crawford’s 11th career leadoff homer.“First pitch of the game you’re not really expecting a home run, but I was able to bounce back,” Marsh said.Marsh retired his next 13 batters — eight on strikeouts — before Garver’s seventh homer off the left-field foul pole tied it at 2 with one out in the fifth inning.“He was locating all his stuff,” Garver said. “We put ourselves in poor counts. He was able to strike out eight real quick. Not a lot going for us in the first five.”Three straight two-out singles, capped by Crawford’s grounder through the middle, produced another run for the Mariners.Marsh (5-3) struck out a season-high eight in five-plus innings. He was charged with four runs and seven hits.“His stuff was really good,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “That was the best I’ve seen his curveball and sweeper in a long time. Got a lot of swing and miss on it.”Maikel Garcia hit a leadoff single in the first for Kansas City. He stole second and scored on Salvador Perez’s single.“Good at-bats, right from the get-go, making Castillo work,” Quatraro said. “We put pressure on him, no easy outs, right from Maikel’s at-bat to start the game. To get him out of there after five was huge.”Frazier made it 2-1 with a solo drive in the second for his second homer.Isbel extended Kansas City’s lead to 7-4 with a two-run double with two out in the sixth against Kirby Snead. Isbel added a sacrifice fly in the eighth.TRAINER’S ROOMMariners IF Ty France was scratched from the lineup due to soreness in his right heel.UP NEXTMariners RHP George Kirby (5-5, 4.05 ERA) opposes Royals LHP Cole Ragans (4-4, 3.21).

⚾ Pasquantino's 2-run double leads Royals past Mariners

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) — Casey Saucke and Henry Ford combined for four hits and three RBI, helping Virginia defeat Kansas State 10-4 to sweep the Charlottesville Super Regional on Saturday.

Virginia (46-15) advanced to the College World Series for the seventh time, all since 2009. The Cavaliers won the national championship in 2015.

Saucke had two hits, an RBI and scored twice; Ford had two hits, two RBIs and a run scored; and Luke Hanson put the icing on the victory with a three-run double in the ninth inning.

Virginia scored two runs in the first inning and two more in the fifth.

In the first, Saucke hit a two-out solo home run to open the scoring. The second run was set up by an infield single, a wild pitch and a walk prior to Harrison Didawick's singled to right center for the second run. Four batters reached base after two were out.

In the fifth inning with the score tied at 2, Eric Becker was thrown out at home trying to score on a bases-loaded grounder by Saucke but the Cavaliers reloaded the bases for Ford, who hit a two-run single.

The Cavaliers picked up a run in the eighth on an RBI-double by Becker and took a 5-4 lead to the ninth inning. Josh Wintroub came on in relief for K-State (35-26) and gave up a two-out, two-run triple to Jacob Ference. Wintroub then loaded the bases, was pulled from the game and was charged with three more runs when Hanson doubled down the left-field line off JJ Slack.

Jay Woolfolk (6-1) pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing three runs on six hits. He struck out seven and walked two batters. Chase Hungate got the save, his second, after pitching two perfect innings.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) — Casey Saucke and Henry Ford combined for four hits and three RBI, helping Virginia defeat Kansas State 10-4 to sweep the Charlottesville Super Regional on Saturday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Final<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KStateBSB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KStateBSB</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y3AnDis1Pw">pic.twitter.com/Y3AnDis1Pw</a>&mdash; K-State Baseball (@KStateBSB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateBSB/status/1799565267975958661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Virginia (46-15) advanced to the College World Series for the seventh time, all since 2009. The Cavaliers won the national championship in 2015.Saucke had two hits, an RBI and scored twice; Ford had two hits, two RBIs and a run scored; and Luke Hanson put the icing on the victory with a three-run double in the ninth inning.Virginia scored two runs in the first inning and two more in the fifth.In the first, Saucke hit a two-out solo home run to open the scoring. The second run was set up by an infield single, a wild pitch and a walk prior to Harrison Didawick's singled to right center for the second run. Four batters reached base after two were out.In the fifth inning with the score tied at 2, Eric Becker was thrown out at home trying to score on a bases-loaded grounder by Saucke but the Cavaliers reloaded the bases for Ford, who hit a two-run single.The Cavaliers picked up a run in the eighth on an RBI-double by Becker and took a 5-4 lead to the ninth inning. Josh Wintroub came on in relief for K-State (35-26) and gave up a two-out, two-run triple to Jacob Ference. Wintroub then loaded the bases, was pulled from the game and was charged with three more runs when Hanson doubled down the left-field line off JJ Slack.Jay Woolfolk (6-1) pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing three runs on six hits. He struck out seven and walked two batters. Chase Hungate got the save, his second, after pitching two perfect innings.Jackson Wentworth (5-6) took the loss.

⚾ Virginia tops K-State to win Super Regional, advance to CWS

Saturday, June 8
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 2:30pm

Sunday, June 9
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 12:30pm

Saturday, June 8
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 2:30pmSunday, June 9
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 12:30pm

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. tied it with a&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1799275757442941300">triple</a>&nbsp;in the ninth inning and scored on Nelson&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/mlb/status/1799276504599175486?s=61&amp;t=9pp7XIs0RmuX6Pu3uceB6g">Velázquez’s fielder’s choice</a>&nbsp;to give the Kansas City Royals a 10-9 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Friday night after they trailed 8-0 in the fourth.

After Maikel Garcia’s RBI grounder cut it to 9-8, Witt tripled into the corner in left.

“He’s a tremendous player.” Mariners manager Scott Servais said. “He hit a pitch that probably was not even a strike. He does those things. He’s a really talented guy and he got us tonight.”

The Mariners intentionally walked the bases full and Velázquez followed with a grounder for the Royals’ third walk-off victory of the season.

“Just put the ball in play and something good can happen,” Velázquez said. “We stand together the whole game, no matter what. We still play hard for 27 outs.”

Kansas City had its largest comeback victory of the year and Seattle its largest blown lead.

“We’re never out of a game,” Witt said. “With this team we have, you’ve just got to do your part and the next guy’s going to do his part. That’s how resilient we are.”

Witt had three hits, extending his hitting streak to eight games.

Nick Anderson (3-1) struck out two in the ninth for the victory. Ryne Stanek (3-1) allowed two hits and walked three — two intentionally – in his second blown save.

Mitch Haniger’s bases-clearing double highlighted a seven-run first inning – the Mariners’ largest of the year — and Ryan Bliss hit his first career home run.

“It’s definitely a moment I’ll never forget,” Bliss said. “But baseball happened and we didn’t come out with the win.”

“Right out of the chute our offense did a lot of good things,” Servais said. “That’s about as good an inning we’ve had all year. You know that game is far from over, certainly against the Royals.”

Ty France had an RBI double in the fourth to make it 8-0.

Kansas City rallied in the bottom of the fourth, scoring four runs. MJ Melendez snapped an 0-for-14 slump with a three-run homer, his sixth. The Royals have an extra-base hit in all 64 games this year.

“I feel like we’re never really out of any game,” Melendez said. “Even though we got down early, we gave ourselves time to come back.”

Mitch Garver had a two-out RBI double in the sixth to push Seattle’s lead to 9-4. The Royals cut it to 9-7 in the bottom of the inning. Melendez had his fourth RBI of the night on a grounder, and Hunter Renfroe added a two-run single.

Seattle starter Bryce Miller left after allowing a leadoff hit and a pair of walks to load the bases in the sixth. He allowed seven runs – his most since June 4 last year – on six hits and three walks.

“That should have never been a game,” Miller said. “I can’t go out and load the bases with no outs. After we scored seven, I’ve got to do my part and I didn’t.”

Royals starter Daniel Lynch IV completed four innings, allowing eight runs on six hits and four walks with four strikeouts.

Mariners RHP Luis Castillo (5-6, 2.99 ERA) was set to face Royals RHP Alec Marsh (4-3, 3.76) on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717844498358.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. tied it with a&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1799275757442941300">triple</a>&nbsp;in the ninth inning and scored on Nelson&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/mlb/status/1799276504599175486?s=61&amp;t=9pp7XIs0RmuX6Pu3uceB6g">Velázquez’s fielder’s choice</a>&nbsp;to give the Kansas City Royals a 10-9 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Friday night after they trailed 8-0 in the fourth.After Maikel Garcia’s RBI grounder cut it to 9-8, Witt tripled into the corner in left.“He’s a tremendous player.” Mariners manager Scott Servais said. “He hit a pitch that probably was not even a strike. He does those things. He’s a really talented guy and he got us tonight.”The Mariners intentionally walked the bases full and Velázquez followed with a grounder for the Royals’ third walk-off victory of the season.“Just put the ball in play and something good can happen,” Velázquez said. “We stand together the whole game, no matter what. We still play hard for 27 outs.”Kansas City had its largest comeback victory of the year and Seattle its largest blown lead.“We’re never out of a game,” Witt said. “With this team we have, you’ve just got to do your part and the next guy’s going to do his part. That’s how resilient we are.”Witt had three hits, extending his hitting streak to eight games.Nick Anderson (3-1) struck out two in the ninth for the victory. Ryne Stanek (3-1) allowed two hits and walked three — two intentionally – in his second blown save.Mitch Haniger’s bases-clearing double highlighted a seven-run first inning – the Mariners’ largest of the year — and Ryan Bliss hit his first career home run.“It’s definitely a moment I’ll never forget,” Bliss said. “But baseball happened and we didn’t come out with the win.”“Right out of the chute our offense did a lot of good things,” Servais said. “That’s about as good an inning we’ve had all year. You know that game is far from over, certainly against the Royals.”Ty France had an RBI double in the fourth to make it 8-0.Kansas City rallied in the bottom of the fourth, scoring four runs. MJ Melendez snapped an 0-for-14 slump with a three-run homer, his sixth. The Royals have an extra-base hit in all 64 games this year.“I feel like we’re never really out of any game,” Melendez said. “Even though we got down early, we gave ourselves time to come back.”Mitch Garver had a two-out RBI double in the sixth to push Seattle’s lead to 9-4. The Royals cut it to 9-7 in the bottom of the inning. Melendez had his fourth RBI of the night on a grounder, and Hunter Renfroe added a two-run single.Seattle starter Bryce Miller left after allowing a leadoff hit and a pair of walks to load the bases in the sixth. He allowed seven runs – his most since June 4 last year – on six hits and three walks.“That should have never been a game,” Miller said. “I can’t go out and load the bases with no outs. After we scored seven, I’ve got to do my part and I didn’t.”Royals starter Daniel Lynch IV completed four innings, allowing eight runs on six hits and four walks with four strikeouts.UP NEXTMariners RHP Luis Castillo (5-6, 2.99 ERA) was set to face Royals RHP Alec Marsh (4-3, 3.76) on Saturday.

⚾ Royals overcome 8-run deficit to beat Mariners 

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) — Henry Godbout hit a go-ahead three-run home run in the bottom of the seventh inning and 12th-seeded Virginia came from behind to beat Kansas State 7-4 in the opener of the Charlottesville Super Regional on Friday night.

Virginia (45-15) can advance to its seventh College World Series with a win on Saturday. Kansas State (35-25), which has never won a super regional or played in the CWS, must win the next two games to advance.

Kaelen Culpepper's two-run double in the third gave the Wildcats a 3-0 lead.

Virginia used a sacrifice fly and a groundout to score twice in the fifth and get within a run. The Cavaliers took a 4-3 lead the next inning on Griff O'Ferrall's two-out two-run double.

K-State tied the game in the top of the seventh on David Bishop's one-out solo homer.

Godbout's go-ahead shot to left field on a 1-0 pitch was his ninth home run of the season and it was the only hit the Cavaliers had in the inning.

Evan Blanco (8-3) got the start and the win for Virginia. He allowed four runs on five hits and a walk in seven innings, striking out nine. Matt Augustin got the final two outs for his first save.

Blake Dean (4-4) took the loss after giving up two runs on a hit and a walk, retiring two batters.

Virginia most recently appeared in the CWS last season. The Cavaliers won their only championship in 2015 when they beat Vanderbilt. Virginia was the runner-up in 2014, losing to the Commodores.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) — Henry Godbout hit a go-ahead three-run home run in the bottom of the seventh inning and 12th-seeded Virginia came from behind to beat Kansas State 7-4 in the opener of the Charlottesville Super Regional on Friday night.Virginia (45-15) can advance to its seventh College World Series with a win on Saturday. Kansas State (35-25), which has never won a super regional or played in the CWS, must win the next two games to advance.Kaelen Culpepper's two-run double in the third gave the Wildcats a 3-0 lead.Virginia used a sacrifice fly and a groundout to score twice in the fifth and get within a run. The Cavaliers took a 4-3 lead the next inning on Griff O'Ferrall's two-out two-run double.K-State tied the game in the top of the seventh on David Bishop's one-out solo homer.Godbout's go-ahead shot to left field on a 1-0 pitch was his ninth home run of the season and it was the only hit the Cavaliers had in the inning.Evan Blanco (8-3) got the start and the win for Virginia. He allowed four runs on five hits and a walk in seven innings, striking out nine. Matt Augustin got the final two outs for his first save.Blake Dean (4-4) took the loss after giving up two runs on a hit and a walk, retiring two batters.Virginia most recently appeared in the CWS last season. The Cavaliers won their only championship in 2015 when they beat Vanderbilt. Virginia was the runner-up in 2014, losing to the Commodores.

⚾ K-State drops opener in NCAA Super Regional

The Hays Larks host the Denver Cougars in their Rocky Mountain Baseball League opener Friday at Larks Park.

&nbsp; You can view the can on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0an2woH420">Larks YouTube channel.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Larks host the Denver Cougars in their Rocky Mountain Baseball League opener Friday at Larks Park.First pitch for game one is set for 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;Friday night is First Responders Night.&nbsp; You can view the can on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0an2woH420">Larks YouTube channel.</a>Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

⚾🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays Larks host Denver in league opener

Friday, June 7
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 6:30pm

Friday, June 7
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 6:30pmSaturday, June 8
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 2:30pmSunday, June 9
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 12:30pm

TOPEKA, Kan. - The Kansas State High School Activities
Association has selected sites for the 2025 KSHSAA state basketball
championships. All seven sites have hosted at least once previously. 

&nbsp;After hosting the 1A
Division I state championships last season, the Colby Event Center has been
selected to host the 1A Division II state championships in 2025. The 2A
tournaments will return to their traditional home at Bramlage Coliseum after a
year’s hiatus. 

&nbsp;The KSHSAA continues
to have a strong relationship with Barton Community College who has hosted the
1A Division II Tournaments the last three years. Colby will be the fourth
community to host the 1A Division II state championships since the class split
into divisions in 2011. In 2019, Class 1A held a single tournament without
divisions.

&nbsp;“The
student-athletes, coaches, school communities and officials who participated in
the 1A Division I tournament in Colby last year had a great experience,” KSHSAA
Executive Director Bill Faflick said. “Colby was given a chance last year and
hosted great championship tournaments. We know they will do the same in 2025.
With two new hotels coming online before the 2025 tournaments, the experience
for teams, families, fans and officials will be even better.”

Barton Community College couldn’t commit to hosting for a
fourth year due to potential events on their campus the week of the state
basketball tournaments.

&nbsp;“Trevor Rolfs and his
team of Heather Panning, Todd Moore, Brooke Thompson, Brandon Smith, Kelsey
Feist, Megan Besecker and more did a tremendous job hosting for us the past
three years and we thank them for the outstanding job they did,” KSHSAA
Assistant Executive Director Kyle Doperalski said. “We appreciate their team
and also understand the need for them to pass on a hosting opportunity in
2025.”

&nbsp;2025 KSHSAA State
Basketball Tournament hosts 6A:&nbsp; Wichita State
University, Koch Arena 5A:&nbsp; Emporia Parks and
Recreation, White Auditorium 4A:&nbsp; Tony’s Pizza
Event Center, Salina 3A:&nbsp; Hutchinson
Community College, Hutchinson Sports Arena 2A:&nbsp; Visit Manhattan,
Bramlage Coliseum 1A DI:&nbsp; Dodge City
High School and Dodge City Sports Commission, United Wireless Arena 1A DII:&nbsp; Colby Event
Center, Colby

KSHSAATOPEKA, Kan. - The Kansas State High School Activities
Association has selected sites for the 2025 KSHSAA state basketball
championships. All seven sites have hosted at least once previously. &nbsp;After hosting the 1A
Division I state championships last season, the Colby Event Center has been
selected to host the 1A Division II state championships in 2025. The 2A
tournaments will return to their traditional home at Bramlage Coliseum after a
year’s hiatus. &nbsp;The KSHSAA continues
to have a strong relationship with Barton Community College who has hosted the
1A Division II Tournaments the last three years. Colby will be the fourth
community to host the 1A Division II state championships since the class split
into divisions in 2011. In 2019, Class 1A held a single tournament without
divisions.&nbsp;“The
student-athletes, coaches, school communities and officials who participated in
the 1A Division I tournament in Colby last year had a great experience,” KSHSAA
Executive Director Bill Faflick said. “Colby was given a chance last year and
hosted great championship tournaments. We know they will do the same in 2025.
With two new hotels coming online before the 2025 tournaments, the experience
for teams, families, fans and officials will be even better.”Barton Community College couldn’t commit to hosting for a
fourth year due to potential events on their campus the week of the state
basketball tournaments.&nbsp;“Trevor Rolfs and his
team of Heather Panning, Todd Moore, Brooke Thompson, Brandon Smith, Kelsey
Feist, Megan Besecker and more did a tremendous job hosting for us the past
three years and we thank them for the outstanding job they did,” KSHSAA
Assistant Executive Director Kyle Doperalski said. “We appreciate their team
and also understand the need for them to pass on a hosting opportunity in
2025.”&nbsp;2025 KSHSAA State
Basketball Tournament hosts 6A:&nbsp; Wichita State
University, Koch Arena 5A:&nbsp; Emporia Parks and
Recreation, White Auditorium 4A:&nbsp; Tony’s Pizza
Event Center, Salina 3A:&nbsp; Hutchinson
Community College, Hutchinson Sports Arena 2A:&nbsp; Visit Manhattan,
Bramlage Coliseum 1A DI:&nbsp; Dodge City
High School and Dodge City Sports Commission, United Wireless Arena 1A DII:&nbsp; Colby Event
Center, Colby

🏀KSHSAA selects state basketball sites for 2025

CLEVELAND (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/i/status/1798803133931323843">Kyle Isbel hit a tiebreaking RBI single in the eighth inning</a>&nbsp;that scored Adam Frazier and the Kansas City Royals beat the AL Central-leading Cleveland Guardians 4-3 on Thursday.

Frazier doubled off Hunter Gaddis (3-2) with two outs and Isbel followed with a liner to right, giving Kansas City a split of the two-game series. The clubs were rained out on Wednesday.

The Royals pulled within four games of Cleveland in the division, winning for the third time in 10 games since May 25. Sam Long (1-1) pitched a scoreless seventh and James McArthur picked up his 12th save in 16 chances.

José Ramírez hit a solo homer and drove in two runs for the Guardians, who have the third-best record in baseball at 40-21, trailing the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees. Cleveland entered the day an MLB-best 21-7 at home.

Isbel was in the lineup for the first time since Sunday, when he sustained a head injury in a collision with teammate Bobby Witt Jr. against San Diego. He also is recovering from small facial fractures after fouling a ball off his face at Tampa Bay on May 25.

Ramírez, who leads the majors with 60 RBIs, gave the Guardians a 2-1 lead in the third with a 422-foot blast into the right-field stands. He also singled home Steven Kwan in the fourth to make it 3-1, chasing Royals starter Brady Singer.

Kansas City scored twice in the sixth to tie it at 3. Hunter Renfroe doubled in Freddy Fermin, and then&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/i/status/1798798489595359732">MJ Melendez jumped over the attempted tag</a>&nbsp;of Guardians catcher Bo Naylor and touched home on Isbel’s grounder.

Ramírez homered for the eighth time in 20 games and has 50 RBIs in his last 46 contests.

Guardians starter Tanner Bibee struck out seven in five innings, allowing two earned runs on six hits. Singer had his shortest outing of 2024, going 3 2/3 innings and giving up two earned runs.

Both teams scored unearned runs in the first. Royals leadoff hitter Maikel Garcia reached on a miscue by Gold Glove second baseman Andrés Giménez and scored on Vinnie Pasquantino’s double. For Cleveland, Kwan singled and scored on a Josh Naylor grounder.

Royals: 2B Michael Massey (low back ligament strain), who was placed on the 10-day injured list on May 26, will be re-assessed Friday in Kansas City. “He felt a little better yesterday, so we’ll see when he can start working toward some baseball activities,” manager Matt Quatraro said.

Guardians: RHP Eli Morgan (right elbow inflammation) had a “small shutdown, but is going to start his throwing progression again,” according to manager Stephen Vogt. Morgan has only appeared in one game between IL stays -- working 2 2/3 innings at Colorado on May 29 -- since April 17.

Royals: LHP Daniel Lynch IV (0-0, 1.50 ERA) faces Mariners RHP Bryce Miller (5-5, 3.18) as Kansas City begins a seven-game homestand Friday.

Guardians: LHP Logan Allen (6-3, 5.83 ERA) takes on Marlins LHP Ryan Weathers (3-5, 3.41 ERA) in the opener of a three-game road series Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717706598939.jpeg" alt="Royals left fielder MJ Melendez slides in over Guardians catcher Bo Naylor to score the tying run in the top of the sixth/ Photo courtesy of Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Royals left fielder MJ Melendez slides in over Guardians catcher Bo Naylor to score the tying run in the top of the sixth/ Photo courtesy of Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/i/status/1798803133931323843">Kyle Isbel hit a tiebreaking RBI single in the eighth inning</a>&nbsp;that scored Adam Frazier and the Kansas City Royals beat the AL Central-leading Cleveland Guardians 4-3 on Thursday.Frazier doubled off Hunter Gaddis (3-2) with two outs and Isbel followed with a liner to right, giving Kansas City a split of the two-game series. The clubs were rained out on Wednesday.The Royals pulled within four games of Cleveland in the division, winning for the third time in 10 games since May 25. Sam Long (1-1) pitched a scoreless seventh and James McArthur picked up his 12th save in 16 chances.José Ramírez hit a solo homer and drove in two runs for the Guardians, who have the third-best record in baseball at 40-21, trailing the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees. Cleveland entered the day an MLB-best 21-7 at home.Isbel was in the lineup for the first time since Sunday, when he sustained a head injury in a collision with teammate Bobby Witt Jr. against San Diego. He also is recovering from small facial fractures after fouling a ball off his face at Tampa Bay on May 25.Ramírez, who leads the majors with 60 RBIs, gave the Guardians a 2-1 lead in the third with a 422-foot blast into the right-field stands. He also singled home Steven Kwan in the fourth to make it 3-1, chasing Royals starter Brady Singer.Kansas City scored twice in the sixth to tie it at 3. Hunter Renfroe doubled in Freddy Fermin, and then&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/i/status/1798798489595359732">MJ Melendez jumped over the attempted tag</a>&nbsp;of Guardians catcher Bo Naylor and touched home on Isbel’s grounder.Ramírez homered for the eighth time in 20 games and has 50 RBIs in his last 46 contests.Guardians starter Tanner Bibee struck out seven in five innings, allowing two earned runs on six hits. Singer had his shortest outing of 2024, going 3 2/3 innings and giving up two earned runs.Both teams scored unearned runs in the first. Royals leadoff hitter Maikel Garcia reached on a miscue by Gold Glove second baseman Andrés Giménez and scored on Vinnie Pasquantino’s double. For Cleveland, Kwan singled and scored on a Josh Naylor grounder.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: 2B Michael Massey (low back ligament strain), who was placed on the 10-day injured list on May 26, will be re-assessed Friday in Kansas City. “He felt a little better yesterday, so we’ll see when he can start working toward some baseball activities,” manager Matt Quatraro said.Guardians: RHP Eli Morgan (right elbow inflammation) had a “small shutdown, but is going to start his throwing progression again,” according to manager Stephen Vogt. Morgan has only appeared in one game between IL stays -- working 2 2/3 innings at Colorado on May 29 -- since April 17.UP NEXTRoyals: LHP Daniel Lynch IV (0-0, 1.50 ERA) faces Mariners RHP Bryce Miller (5-5, 3.18) as Kansas City begins a seven-game homestand Friday.Guardians: LHP Logan Allen (6-3, 5.83 ERA) takes on Marlins LHP Ryan Weathers (3-5, 3.41 ERA) in the opener of a three-game road series Friday.

⚾ Isbel's RBI single in the 8th lifts the Royals past the Guardians

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs backup B.J. Thompson was taken to a hospital in stable condition Thursday after the defensive lineman experienced a cardiac event during a team meeting, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press.

The person, speaking to the AP on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the event, said team trainers and medical staff were able to react quickly and treat Thompson until paramedics arrived.

The Chiefs planned to wrap up their voluntary offseason workouts on Thursday, but a team spokesman said the practice would be pushed to Friday. That is when Chiefs coach Andy Reid and other players will speak to reporters.

The 27-year-old Thompson was a fifth-round pick of the Chiefs out of Stephen F. Austin in last year's draft. The only game Thompson appeared in was their regular-season finale against the Los Angeles Chargers, when Kansas City already had clinched its playoff spot and the game's outcome was meaningless. Thompson had two tackles in that game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717698357421.png" alt="FILE - Kansas City Chiefs’ B.J. Thompson (53) walks to the field before an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023, in Jacksonville, Fla. Chiefs backup B.J. Thompson was taken to a hospital in stable condition Thursday, June 6, 2024, after the defensive lineman experienced a cardiac event during a team meeting, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press.(AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Kansas City Chiefs’ B.J. Thompson (53) walks to the field before an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023, in Jacksonville, Fla. Chiefs backup B.J. Thompson was taken to a hospital in stable condition Thursday, June 6, 2024, after the defensive lineman experienced a cardiac event during a team meeting, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press.(AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs backup B.J. Thompson was taken to a hospital in stable condition Thursday after the defensive lineman experienced a cardiac event during a team meeting, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press.The person, speaking to the AP on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the event, said team trainers and medical staff were able to react quickly and treat Thompson until paramedics arrived.The Chiefs planned to wrap up their voluntary offseason workouts on Thursday, but a team spokesman said the practice would be pushed to Friday. That is when Chiefs coach Andy Reid and other players will speak to reporters.The 27-year-old Thompson was a fifth-round pick of the Chiefs out of Stephen F. Austin in last year's draft. The only game Thompson appeared in was their regular-season finale against the Los Angeles Chargers, when Kansas City already had clinched its playoff spot and the game's outcome was meaningless. Thompson had two tackles in that game.