Photo courtesy of&nbsp;Stenzel Film and Ken Windholz Photography.

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/vbdsuDAz-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Cash Benavidez" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Photo courtesy of&nbsp;Stenzel Film and Ken Windholz Photography.

Meet The Larks: Cash Benavidez

By MARC BOWMAN Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Cole Ragans pitched out of trouble for six spotless innings and the Kansas City Royals beat the New York Mets 4-0 on Wednesday night for their fifth consecutive victory, extending their longest winning streak in more than two years.

Michael Massey hit a two-run double off rookie Kodai Senga in the first. Drew Waters homered late and threw out a runner at the plate from right field.

Called up from the minors earlier in the day, Ragans (3-3) struck out a career-best eight in his first win with the Royals.

“I felt like I kept them off balance a little bit,” Ragans said. “I was throwing the changeup and the slider for strikes, so it helped me out when I did miss with the fastball. I felt like they had to honor everything else, so they couldn’t just sit on a fastball over the plate.”

The left-hander allowed seven hits and walked one in his second start for Kansas City since being acquired June 30 from Texas.

“He’s got good stuff,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “It’s a very smooth delivery. It’s just easy velocity. The slider looks like it's sharper than it was his first start.”

Maikel Garcia had three singles as Kansas City extended its best winning streak since taking six straight games in July 2021.

“Part of this whole process is learning how to win,” Massey said. “Individual development of trying to figure the league out, and then as a team learning how to go out there and win.”

The Royals ripped Senga for six hits over the first two innings, building a 3-0 lead, as a light rain fell early in the game. Senga (7-6) worked 5 2/3 innings, allowing three runs on a career-high 11 hits and two walks. He struck out six.

“I think some of his velocity was down,” Mets manager Buck Showalter said. “It was really sticky. When it started raining, everything was sticking to his spikes. He couldn’t get his spikes in the ground. It was really remarkable that he was able to survive there. A real tribute, a testament to his ability to keep competing.”

Massey’s two-out, two-run double off the right-field wall opened the scoring. Kansas City added another run in the second on three consecutive singles, capped by Bobby Witt Jr.’s RBI single off Senga.

“I feel like we jumped on him a lot,” Massey said. “Maikel set the tone and Bobby (had) two hard-hit balls right away. Just a really good plan from coaches, and (we) picked up some stuff from video that we were watching all day, and put some good swings on him.”

Waters threw out Mark Vientos at the plate in the sixth to preserve the shutout, then added a solo homer in the eighth.

“I didn’t have much of a grip,” Waters said. “At first I thought I was going to throw it in the stands, and it cut about 10 feet, right back to (catcher) Salvy (Perez).”

“The throw from Waters saved me big-time,” Ragans said. “The pitch count started getting up there and he threw it right on the money and hosed the guy. It was huge.”

Angel Zerpa and Taylor Clarke allowed two hits over the final three innings, completing the Royals’ fifth shutout and first since June 20.

“We just didn’t score any runs,” Showalter said. “The whole outing would have looked different if we could have done some things. We had some opportunities, didn’t do much with them.”

Jeff McNeil, who had three hits, grounded out with the bases loaded to end it.

New York went 2 for 12 with runners in scoring position and stranded 10 overall while getting blanked for the 10th time this season.

Mets: CF Brandon Nimmo sat out his second consecutive game with tightness in his left quadriceps. ... RF Starling Marte (migraines) is likely to be reinstated from the injured list before the club plays in Baltimore this weekend. “We could have activated him today and probably not started him,” Showalter said. “We need players who are able to play. He’s almost there. We feel like he’s going to be a player in Baltimore.”

Mets: Activated RHP Phil Bickford and selected the contract of SS Jonathan Araúz from Triple-A Syracuse. C Michael Pérez was optioned to Syracuse.

Royals: Activated LHP Tucker Davidson and recalled Ragans from Triple-A Omaha. RHPs Jackson Kowar and James McArthur were optioned to Omaha.

Mets RHP Carlos Carrasco (3-5, 6.40 ERA) faces RHP Brady Singer (6-8, 5.46) in the series finale Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691057297096.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Cole Ragans throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Cole Ragans throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARC BOWMAN Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Cole Ragans pitched out of trouble for six spotless innings and the Kansas City Royals beat the New York Mets 4-0 on Wednesday night for their fifth consecutive victory, extending their longest winning streak in more than two years.Michael Massey hit a two-run double off rookie Kodai Senga in the first. Drew Waters homered late and threw out a runner at the plate from right field.Called up from the minors earlier in the day, Ragans (3-3) struck out a career-best eight in his first win with the Royals.“I felt like I kept them off balance a little bit,” Ragans said. “I was throwing the changeup and the slider for strikes, so it helped me out when I did miss with the fastball. I felt like they had to honor everything else, so they couldn’t just sit on a fastball over the plate.”The left-hander allowed seven hits and walked one in his second start for Kansas City since being acquired June 30 from Texas.“He’s got good stuff,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “It’s a very smooth delivery. It’s just easy velocity. The slider looks like it's sharper than it was his first start.”Maikel Garcia had three singles as Kansas City extended its best winning streak since taking six straight games in July 2021.“Part of this whole process is learning how to win,” Massey said. “Individual development of trying to figure the league out, and then as a team learning how to go out there and win.”The Royals ripped Senga for six hits over the first two innings, building a 3-0 lead, as a light rain fell early in the game. Senga (7-6) worked 5 2/3 innings, allowing three runs on a career-high 11 hits and two walks. He struck out six.“I think some of his velocity was down,” Mets manager Buck Showalter said. “It was really sticky. When it started raining, everything was sticking to his spikes. He couldn’t get his spikes in the ground. It was really remarkable that he was able to survive there. A real tribute, a testament to his ability to keep competing.”Massey’s two-out, two-run double off the right-field wall opened the scoring. Kansas City added another run in the second on three consecutive singles, capped by Bobby Witt Jr.’s RBI single off Senga.“I feel like we jumped on him a lot,” Massey said. “Maikel set the tone and Bobby (had) two hard-hit balls right away. Just a really good plan from coaches, and (we) picked up some stuff from video that we were watching all day, and put some good swings on him.”Waters threw out Mark Vientos at the plate in the sixth to preserve the shutout, then added a solo homer in the eighth.“I didn’t have much of a grip,” Waters said. “At first I thought I was going to throw it in the stands, and it cut about 10 feet, right back to (catcher) Salvy (Perez).”“The throw from Waters saved me big-time,” Ragans said. “The pitch count started getting up there and he threw it right on the money and hosed the guy. It was huge.”Angel Zerpa and Taylor Clarke allowed two hits over the final three innings, completing the Royals’ fifth shutout and first since June 20.“We just didn’t score any runs,” Showalter said. “The whole outing would have looked different if we could have done some things. We had some opportunities, didn’t do much with them.”Jeff McNeil, who had three hits, grounded out with the bases loaded to end it.New York went 2 for 12 with runners in scoring position and stranded 10 overall while getting blanked for the 10th time this season.TRAINER’S ROOMMets: CF Brandon Nimmo sat out his second consecutive game with tightness in his left quadriceps. ... RF Starling Marte (migraines) is likely to be reinstated from the injured list before the club plays in Baltimore this weekend. “We could have activated him today and probably not started him,” Showalter said. “We need players who are able to play. He’s almost there. We feel like he’s going to be a player in Baltimore.”TRANSACTIONSMets: Activated RHP Phil Bickford and selected the contract of SS Jonathan Araúz from Triple-A Syracuse. C Michael Pérez was optioned to Syracuse.Royals: Activated LHP Tucker Davidson and recalled Ragans from Triple-A Omaha. RHPs Jackson Kowar and James McArthur were optioned to Omaha.UP NEXTMets RHP Carlos Carrasco (3-5, 6.40 ERA) faces RHP Brady Singer (6-8, 5.46) in the series finale Thursday.

⚾ Ragans gets first win with KC, pitches Royals past Mets

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs allowed wide receivers JuJu Smith-Schuster and Mecole Hardman to walk away in free agency, and in their place they signed a couple of relative unknowns while taking a gamble on an injury-prone talent and unproven draft pick.

The expectation this season is that Patrick Mahomes can make it work, just as he has for so many years.

It helps that All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce is still producing at a level that few wide receivers can match, and the Chiefs return a deep backfield led by Isiah Pacheco, Jerick McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire. It also helps that the interior of their offensive line is one of the best in the NFL, which should help give Mahomes time to find all those new options.

Now it's up to them to catch some passes.

Kadarius Toney is back with Kansas City after showing flashes of stardom last season, including in its Super Bowl win over the Eagles, though the injury problems that dogged him with the Giants already have returned. Toney tore the meniscus in his knee on the first day of training camp, leaving the Chiefs to hope he can be ready for the start of the season.

Marquez Valdes-Scantling is also back and expected to take on a bigger role. He as much as anyone showed what catching passes from Mahomes in an offense orchestrated by Chiefs coach Andy Reid can produce: Valdes-Scantling had 42 catches for 687 yards in his first season in red, a career-best yardage total after five seasons with Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay.

Valdes-Scantling hopes to replicate the leadership he once received from Davante Adams and Randall Cobb with the Packers.

“Just seeing those guys go to work every day,” he said, “and then having a guy like Aaron as a young guy — seeing what that looks like then and now being able to do that in a different light, and be a veteran to those guys, and watching how Pat and Travis go about their business, just like, I got to be the same guy for the young guys in the room, too.”

Skyy Moore, a second-round pick a year ago, caught 22 passes for 250 yards during an uneven rookie season. He struggled with punt returns early on, and that may have contributed to a crisis of confidence. But he was instrumental in the Chiefs' comeback win over Philadelphia, and Reid and offensive coordinator Matt Nagy have been effusive in their praise of him in camp.

“You know, the second year in, knowing the offense, being more comfortable in who he is — they drafted him in the second round for a reason,” Valdes-Scantling said. "He is super talented and having him be able to move around and do some things that he can do, I’m excited to see what the season holds for him.”

The Chiefs used another second-round pick in April on Rashee Rice, who turned heads not only at SMU but during the pre-draft process, when he worked out with Mahomes and several other receivers at the quarterback's home in Texas.

That offseason work with the league MVP has given Rice a head start, too.

“He expects his receivers to be in a specific spot at a specific time,” Rice said this week, when asked what he's learned about his quarterback so far. “He’s going to bomb the ball so don’t look back and run; look up and run.”

There is some spirited competition for the other spots on the roster.

Justin Watson was part of their Super Bowl-winning team a year ago, and he re-signed with Kansas City after offers elsewhere. He has the inside track on a job along with Richie James, a special teams standout who spent last season with the Giants.

The biggest wildcard is Justyn Ross. The former Clemson star missed an entire college season to a congenital condition in his neck and spine that required surgery, then he missed last season after foot surgery. But at 6-foot-4, 205 pounds, Ross gives the Chiefs the kind of big red zone target they would have lacked after Smith-Schuster signed with New England.

“He’s such a big kid, tall kid," Reid said, "the ability to go up and get the ball, that type of stuff will benefit him.”

The Chiefs indeed have plenty of options at wide receiver. Few of them are household names outside of Kansas City. But taken together, they could be the difference in another Super Bowl run or a season that fails to meet expectations.

“There’s been a lot of change in this receiver room over the last two seasons,” Watson said. "We have a bunch of young guys that are just chomping at the bit and really pushing everybody, so it’s been a good mix of older guys and younger guys in camp.”

NOTES: DT Tershawn Wharton practiced Wednesday for the first time since undergoing ACL surgery last fall. P Tommy Townsend (sprained ankle) also was at practice while DE Mike Danna (calf strain) continued to work to the side with trainers. ... CB L'Jarius Sneed did not participate in practice because of knee inflammation. He had worked out earlier in the week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691058864161.jpeg" alt="Chiefs wide receiver Justyn Ross (2) makes a catch during training camp in St. Joseph, Mo. on Wednesday, August 2, 2023. (St. Joseph Post photo/Tommy Rezac)" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs wide receiver Justyn Ross (2) makes a catch during training camp in St. Joseph, Mo. on Wednesday, August 2, 2023. (St. Joseph Post photo/Tommy Rezac)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs allowed wide receivers JuJu Smith-Schuster and Mecole Hardman to walk away in free agency, and in their place they signed a couple of relative unknowns while taking a gamble on an injury-prone talent and unproven draft pick.The expectation this season is that Patrick Mahomes can make it work, just as he has for so many years.It helps that All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce is still producing at a level that few wide receivers can match, and the Chiefs return a deep backfield led by Isiah Pacheco, Jerick McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire. It also helps that the interior of their offensive line is one of the best in the NFL, which should help give Mahomes time to find all those new options.Now it's up to them to catch some passes.Kadarius Toney is back with Kansas City after showing flashes of stardom last season, including in its Super Bowl win over the Eagles, though the injury problems that dogged him with the Giants already have returned. Toney tore the meniscus in his knee on the first day of training camp, leaving the Chiefs to hope he can be ready for the start of the season.Marquez Valdes-Scantling is also back and expected to take on a bigger role. He as much as anyone showed what catching passes from Mahomes in an offense orchestrated by Chiefs coach Andy Reid can produce: Valdes-Scantling had 42 catches for 687 yards in his first season in red, a career-best yardage total after five seasons with Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay.Valdes-Scantling hopes to replicate the leadership he once received from Davante Adams and Randall Cobb with the Packers.“Just seeing those guys go to work every day,” he said, “and then having a guy like Aaron as a young guy — seeing what that looks like then and now being able to do that in a different light, and be a veteran to those guys, and watching how Pat and Travis go about their business, just like, I got to be the same guy for the young guys in the room, too.”There are plenty of them.Skyy Moore, a second-round pick a year ago, caught 22 passes for 250 yards during an uneven rookie season. He struggled with punt returns early on, and that may have contributed to a crisis of confidence. But he was instrumental in the Chiefs' comeback win over Philadelphia, and Reid and offensive coordinator Matt Nagy have been effusive in their praise of him in camp.“You know, the second year in, knowing the offense, being more comfortable in who he is — they drafted him in the second round for a reason,” Valdes-Scantling said. "He is super talented and having him be able to move around and do some things that he can do, I’m excited to see what the season holds for him.”The Chiefs used another second-round pick in April on Rashee Rice, who turned heads not only at SMU but during the pre-draft process, when he worked out with Mahomes and several other receivers at the quarterback's home in Texas.That offseason work with the league MVP has given Rice a head start, too.“He expects his receivers to be in a specific spot at a specific time,” Rice said this week, when asked what he's learned about his quarterback so far. “He’s going to bomb the ball so don’t look back and run; look up and run.”There is some spirited competition for the other spots on the roster.Justin Watson was part of their Super Bowl-winning team a year ago, and he re-signed with Kansas City after offers elsewhere. He has the inside track on a job along with Richie James, a special teams standout who spent last season with the Giants.The biggest wildcard is Justyn Ross. The former Clemson star missed an entire college season to a congenital condition in his neck and spine that required surgery, then he missed last season after foot surgery. But at 6-foot-4, 205 pounds, Ross gives the Chiefs the kind of big red zone target they would have lacked after Smith-Schuster signed with New England.“He’s such a big kid, tall kid," Reid said, "the ability to go up and get the ball, that type of stuff will benefit him.”The Chiefs indeed have plenty of options at wide receiver. Few of them are household names outside of Kansas City. But taken together, they could be the difference in another Super Bowl run or a season that fails to meet expectations.“There’s been a lot of change in this receiver room over the last two seasons,” Watson said. "We have a bunch of young guys that are just chomping at the bit and really pushing everybody, so it’s been a good mix of older guys and younger guys in camp.”NOTES: DT Tershawn Wharton practiced Wednesday for the first time since undergoing ACL surgery last fall. P Tommy Townsend (sprained ankle) also was at practice while DE Mike Danna (calf strain) continued to work to the side with trainers. ... CB L'Jarius Sneed did not participate in practice because of knee inflammation. He had worked out earlier in the week.

🏈 Chiefs and QB Patrick Mahomes will be leaning on new bunch of untested wide receivers

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/SidulDYn-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Luis Garcia" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Photo courtesy of&nbsp;Stenzel Film and Ken Windholz Photography.

Meet The Larks: Luis Garcia

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Josh Walker balked home the winning run in the 10th inning and the Kansas City Royals rallied past the New York Mets 7-6 on Tuesday night for their season-best fourth straight victory.

Hours after the retooling Mets&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/justin-verlander-astros-mets-trade-727db3282dbf8da017ad21897974b1ad">traded star pitcher Justin Verlander</a>&nbsp;and two other players to cap&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mets-scherzer-verlander-trades-mlb-328a9452c1fc228ffc32e76df68993bb">a stunning deadline selloff,</a>&nbsp;they blew a 6-4 lead provided by rookie Francisco Álvarez's two-run homer in the top of the 10th.

Bobby Witt Jr. hit an RBI double in the bottom half and MJ Melendez tied it with a run-scoring single off Brooks Raley (0-2).

“The whole last inning, really good at-bats,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Bobby, MJ, and then taking walks. Raley’s tough. We’ve seen a lot of him and he can really get you to expand the zone. Our guys didn’t do that.”

“Bobby getting us started right there is huge,” Melendez said. “Getting that tying run on second base takes a lot of pressure off the guys to come. We had some really good at-bats and some walks after that.”

Following a two-out throwing error by rookie third baseman Brett Baty, Melendez scored when Walker balked with the bases loaded to give last-place Kansas City (33-75) its sixth walk-off victory.

“I didn’t have a PitchCom in my ear,” Walker explained. “Álvy didn’t have communication. Basically I was trying to relay that to him. When I went to step off, my foot was kind of in the footprint of where guys had been throwing and my knee buckled a little bit before I stepped off.”

Walker was recalled from the minors earlier in the day.

“Pitching-wise, we gave them some things they didn’t earn,” Mets manager Buck Showalter said. “But they earned some stolen bases.”

Kansas City stole three bases in the seventh and scored twice to grab a 3-1 lead. Pinch-runner Dairon Blanco stole third and scored on Álvarez’s throwing error before Maikel Garcia added an RBI single off Trevor Gott.

“We’ve got dudes on the whole team that can move the game on the basepaths,” said Samad Taylor, who stole two bases and scored twice. “Any way we can do something on the basepaths, it’s a plus. This game tonight came down to baserunning and doing the right things on the basepaths.”

“He’s got sneaky pop,” Quatraro said. “He steals bags, plays good defense. We’re excited to have him.”

Carlos Hernández (1-6) worked one inning for the win.

Pete Alonso hit his 31st homer for the Mets and added an RBI single in a three-run eighth that gave them a 4-3 lead.

“You know you can’t make mistakes to him,” Royals starter Zack Greinke said. “It was a fastball right down the middle. It’s still an impressive hit.”

Freddy Fermin’s sacrifice fly off Adam Ottavino in the bottom half tied it.

After making a flurry of trades over the past few days, the Mets called up Walker, RHP John Curtiss, OF Rafael Ortega and C Michael Pérez from Triple-A Syracuse.

Kansas City activated 1B Matt Beaty from the seven-day injured list and recalled LHP Angel Zerpa and RHPs Jackson Kowar and James McArthur from Triple-A Omaha.

Mets rookie RHP Kodai Senga (7-5, 3.17 ERA) faces Royals RHP Alec Marsh (0-5, 7.04) on Wednesday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690951079311.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez (1) runs home to score the winning run after New York Mets relief pitcher Josh Walker balked with the bases loaded during the tenth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. The Royals won 7-6 in 10 innings. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez (1) runs home to score the winning run after New York Mets relief pitcher Josh Walker balked with the bases loaded during the tenth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. The Royals won 7-6 in 10 innings. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARC BOWMAN Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Josh Walker balked home the winning run in the 10th inning and the Kansas City Royals rallied past the New York Mets 7-6 on Tuesday night for their season-best fourth straight victory.Hours after the retooling Mets&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/justin-verlander-astros-mets-trade-727db3282dbf8da017ad21897974b1ad">traded star pitcher Justin Verlander</a>&nbsp;and two other players to cap&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mets-scherzer-verlander-trades-mlb-328a9452c1fc228ffc32e76df68993bb">a stunning deadline selloff,</a>&nbsp;they blew a 6-4 lead provided by rookie Francisco Álvarez's two-run homer in the top of the 10th.Bobby Witt Jr. hit an RBI double in the bottom half and MJ Melendez tied it with a run-scoring single off Brooks Raley (0-2).“The whole last inning, really good at-bats,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Bobby, MJ, and then taking walks. Raley’s tough. We’ve seen a lot of him and he can really get you to expand the zone. Our guys didn’t do that.”“Bobby getting us started right there is huge,” Melendez said. “Getting that tying run on second base takes a lot of pressure off the guys to come. We had some really good at-bats and some walks after that.”Following a two-out throwing error by rookie third baseman Brett Baty, Melendez scored when Walker balked with the bases loaded to give last-place Kansas City (33-75) its sixth walk-off victory.“I didn’t have a PitchCom in my ear,” Walker explained. “Álvy didn’t have communication. Basically I was trying to relay that to him. When I went to step off, my foot was kind of in the footprint of where guys had been throwing and my knee buckled a little bit before I stepped off.”Walker was recalled from the minors earlier in the day.“Pitching-wise, we gave them some things they didn’t earn,” Mets manager Buck Showalter said. “But they earned some stolen bases.”Kansas City stole three bases in the seventh and scored twice to grab a 3-1 lead. Pinch-runner Dairon Blanco stole third and scored on Álvarez’s throwing error before Maikel Garcia added an RBI single off Trevor Gott.“We’ve got dudes on the whole team that can move the game on the basepaths,” said Samad Taylor, who stole two bases and scored twice. “Any way we can do something on the basepaths, it’s a plus. This game tonight came down to baserunning and doing the right things on the basepaths.”“He’s got sneaky pop,” Quatraro said. “He steals bags, plays good defense. We’re excited to have him.”Carlos Hernández (1-6) worked one inning for the win.Pete Alonso hit his 31st homer for the Mets and added an RBI single in a three-run eighth that gave them a 4-3 lead.“You know you can’t make mistakes to him,” Royals starter Zack Greinke said. “It was a fastball right down the middle. It’s still an impressive hit.”Freddy Fermin’s sacrifice fly off Adam Ottavino in the bottom half tied it.TRANSACTIONSAfter making a flurry of trades over the past few days, the Mets called up Walker, RHP John Curtiss, OF Rafael Ortega and C Michael Pérez from Triple-A Syracuse.Kansas City activated 1B Matt Beaty from the seven-day injured list and recalled LHP Angel Zerpa and RHPs Jackson Kowar and James McArthur from Triple-A Omaha.UP NEXTMets rookie RHP Kodai Senga (7-5, 3.17 ERA) faces Royals RHP Alec Marsh (0-5, 7.04) on Wednesday night.

⚾ Royals win 4th straight, rally past Mets on 10th-inning balk

By BETH HARRIS AP Sports Writer

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired pitcher Ryan Yarbrough from the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday after being&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eduardo-rodriguez-trade-deadline-tigers-dodgers-a2e78a9bac1a5e80d0381790f224c0a3">rebuffed in their pursuit of Detroit Tigers ace Eduardo Rodriguez</a>.

Rodriguez used his no-trade clause to block a trade, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said.

“To have a chance to come to a team with guys that he’s familiar with, on a team that’s playing for a championship, it’s surprising,” Roberts said.

The Dodgers traded for pitchers Lance Lynn and Joe Kelly last week, but mdidn't land any of the biggest names available at the deadline.

“The top end of the market, we were aggressive in pursuing,” Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said. “The group below that, kind of the versatile arm, floor-raiser, someone that fits in well with our existing group and helps augment our depth, we were more price-sensitive on.”

The Dodgers are waiting on three-time Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw to return from a shoulder injury, as well as lefty Julio Urías to overcome an issue with the index finger on his throwing hand.

“I like our ballclub,” Roberts said. “You’re always trying to get better, but as it stands right now we just got to get our guys back to health. It’s still a very, very talented ballclub.”

Los Angeles is hoping Walker Buehler returns in September after rehabbing from Tommy John surgery.

In exchange for Yarbrough, the Dodgers sent minor league infielders Devin Mann and Derlin Figueroa.

The 31-year-old Yarbrough was 4-5 with a 4.24 ERA and 29 strikeouts in 14 appearances, including seven starts, with the Royals. The left-hander helped the Royals sweep Minnesota on Sunday.

Yarbrough has spent parts of six seasons in the majors, having also pitched for Tampa Bay from 2018-2022. He has a career mark of 44-36 with a 4.32 ERA.

Roberts said he wasn't sure whether Yarbrough would be a starter or work out of the bullpen.

“A versatile arm that fits in with our group and helps stabilize,” Friedman said.

In another move, the Dodgers traded lefty Justin Bruihl to Colorado for cash.

He was recently designated for assignment by the Dodgers to make room for Lynn and Kelly. Bruihl has a 4.07 ERA with 19 strikeouts and eight walks in 24 1/3 innings this season. He played parts of three seasons in LA.

The Dodgers also sent righty Phil Bickford and lefty Adam Kolarek to the New York Mets for cash.

Bickford was designed for assignment by the Dodgers on Saturday. He was 2-3 with a 5.14 ERA in 36 games this season.

Kolarek spent most of the season with Triple-A Oklahoma City. He was 0-3 with a 2.40 ERA in 33 games.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690971754653.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Ryan Yarbrough throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins Sunday, July 30, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Ryan Yarbrough throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins Sunday, July 30, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BETH HARRIS AP Sports WriterLOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired pitcher Ryan Yarbrough from the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday after being&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eduardo-rodriguez-trade-deadline-tigers-dodgers-a2e78a9bac1a5e80d0381790f224c0a3">rebuffed in their pursuit of Detroit Tigers ace Eduardo Rodriguez</a>.Rodriguez used his no-trade clause to block a trade, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said.“To have a chance to come to a team with guys that he’s familiar with, on a team that’s playing for a championship, it’s surprising,” Roberts said.The Dodgers traded for pitchers Lance Lynn and Joe Kelly last week, but mdidn't land any of the biggest names available at the deadline.“The top end of the market, we were aggressive in pursuing,” Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said. “The group below that, kind of the versatile arm, floor-raiser, someone that fits in well with our existing group and helps augment our depth, we were more price-sensitive on.”The Dodgers are waiting on three-time Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw to return from a shoulder injury, as well as lefty Julio Urías to overcome an issue with the index finger on his throwing hand.“I like our ballclub,” Roberts said. “You’re always trying to get better, but as it stands right now we just got to get our guys back to health. It’s still a very, very talented ballclub.”Los Angeles is hoping Walker Buehler returns in September after rehabbing from Tommy John surgery.In exchange for Yarbrough, the Dodgers sent minor league infielders Devin Mann and Derlin Figueroa.The 31-year-old Yarbrough was 4-5 with a 4.24 ERA and 29 strikeouts in 14 appearances, including seven starts, with the Royals. The left-hander helped the Royals sweep Minnesota on Sunday.Yarbrough has spent parts of six seasons in the majors, having also pitched for Tampa Bay from 2018-2022. He has a career mark of 44-36 with a 4.32 ERA.Roberts said he wasn't sure whether Yarbrough would be a starter or work out of the bullpen.“A versatile arm that fits in with our group and helps stabilize,” Friedman said.In another move, the Dodgers traded lefty Justin Bruihl to Colorado for cash.He was recently designated for assignment by the Dodgers to make room for Lynn and Kelly. Bruihl has a 4.07 ERA with 19 strikeouts and eight walks in 24 1/3 innings this season. He played parts of three seasons in LA.The Dodgers also sent righty Phil Bickford and lefty Adam Kolarek to the New York Mets for cash.Bickford was designed for assignment by the Dodgers on Saturday. He was 2-3 with a 5.14 ERA in 36 games this season.Kolarek spent most of the season with Triple-A Oklahoma City. He was 0-3 with a 2.40 ERA in 33 games.

⚾ Royals trade Ryan Yarbrough to Dodgers for pair of minor-league infielders

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced tonight that they have acquired minor league right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Henry Williams&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jesus Rios&nbsp;from the Padres for right hander&nbsp;Scott Barlow. The Royals Major League Reserve List is now at 38.

Williams, 21, has recorded 40 strikeouts in 42.1 innings (8.5 K/9) across 12 starts this season with Class-A Lake Elsinore. He was selected in the 3rd&nbsp;round of the 2022 First-Year Player Draft out of Duke University. He will be assigned to Class-A Columbia.

Rios, 21, has made 16 relief appearances this season with San Diego’s Dominican Summer League teams, going 6-3 with 2 saves. He was signed as an international free agent in January out of Mexico. He will be assigned to Royals Blue in the Dominican Summer League

Barlow, 30, was 2-4 with a 5.35 ERA (23 ER in 38.2 IP) and a team-best 13 saves in 31 appearances with the Royals this season. He was selected by the Dodgers in the 6th&nbsp;round of the 2011 Draft and was signed as a free agent by Kansas City, before making his Major League debut in 2018. Barlow has spent his entire big league career with the Royals, going 20-16 with a 3.39 ERA and 361 strikeouts in 302.2 innings, including a career-high 24 saves in 2022.

Prior to tonight’s game, the Royals have recalled right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Jackson Kowar&nbsp;and&nbsp;James McArthur. An updated roster is attached.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682510670038.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals pitcher Scott Barlow reacts to the team's 5-4 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks during a baseball game Tuesday, April 25, 2023, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri).jpg" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals pitcher Scott Barlow reacts to the team's 5-4 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks during a baseball game Tuesday, April 25, 2023, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri).jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced tonight that they have acquired minor league right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Henry Williams&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jesus Rios&nbsp;from the Padres for right hander&nbsp;Scott Barlow. The Royals Major League Reserve List is now at 38.Williams, 21, has recorded 40 strikeouts in 42.1 innings (8.5 K/9) across 12 starts this season with Class-A Lake Elsinore. He was selected in the 3rd&nbsp;round of the 2022 First-Year Player Draft out of Duke University. He will be assigned to Class-A Columbia.Rios, 21, has made 16 relief appearances this season with San Diego’s Dominican Summer League teams, going 6-3 with 2 saves. He was signed as an international free agent in January out of Mexico. He will be assigned to Royals Blue in the Dominican Summer LeagueBarlow, 30, was 2-4 with a 5.35 ERA (23 ER in 38.2 IP) and a team-best 13 saves in 31 appearances with the Royals this season. He was selected by the Dodgers in the 6th&nbsp;round of the 2011 Draft and was signed as a free agent by Kansas City, before making his Major League debut in 2018. Barlow has spent his entire big league career with the Royals, going 20-16 with a 3.39 ERA and 361 strikeouts in 302.2 innings, including a career-high 24 saves in 2022.Prior to tonight’s game, the Royals have recalled right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Jackson Kowar&nbsp;and&nbsp;James McArthur. An updated roster is attached.

⚾ Royals trade closer Scott Barlow for a pair of pitching prospects

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced Tuesday that they have acquired left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Tucker Davidson&nbsp;from the Angels for cash considerations. Davidson, who was designated for assignment last Thursday, will report to the big league club. Kansas City’s Major League Reserve List is now at 40.

Davidson, 27, made his Major League debut with Atlanta in 2020 and made 4 starts for the 2021 Braves World Series-winning team. He also started Game 5 of the World Series. Last season as the Trade Deadline, he was acquired by the Angels in a three-player deal that sent&nbsp;Raisel Iglesias&nbsp;to the Braves.

Davidson made the Angels Opening Day roster this season and went 1-1 with 2 saves and 31 strikeouts in 31.2 innings (8.8 K/9) over 18 appearances. He recorded more than 1.0 inning in 11 of his 18 outings, including a season-high 4.0 scoreless innings in his season debut on April 1.

Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced Tuesday that they have acquired left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Tucker Davidson&nbsp;from the Angels for cash considerations. Davidson, who was designated for assignment last Thursday, will report to the big league club. Kansas City’s Major League Reserve List is now at 40.Davidson, 27, made his Major League debut with Atlanta in 2020 and made 4 starts for the 2021 Braves World Series-winning team. He also started Game 5 of the World Series. Last season as the Trade Deadline, he was acquired by the Angels in a three-player deal that sent&nbsp;Raisel Iglesias&nbsp;to the Braves.Davidson made the Angels Opening Day roster this season and went 1-1 with 2 saves and 31 strikeouts in 31.2 innings (8.8 K/9) over 18 appearances. He recorded more than 1.0 inning in 11 of his 18 outings, including a season-high 4.0 scoreless innings in his season debut on April 1.

⚾ Royals acquire pitcher Tucker Davidson from Angels

&nbsp; ATLANTA - The Fort Hays State women's basketball team posted the second-best GPA in program history during the 2022-23 season, with the Tigers ranking sixth in Division II on the WBCA Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.805. It is the 12th time the Tigers cracked the top 25 during Tony Hobson's 15-year tenure as head coach, including their fifth appearance inside the top 10. Fort Hays State is the top-ranked MIAA program on the list again this season, with the Tigers doing so in five of the last six years. Two other league schools are ranked in the top 25 in No. 22 Central Missouri and No. 23 Northwest Missouri State. The Tigers placed 13 student-athletes on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll this season, including three that earned the MIAA Academic Excellence Award and two that received the MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/kate-dilsaver/7521">Kate Dilsaver</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/megan-earney/7523">Megan Earney</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/ellie-stearns/7530">Ellie Stearns</a>&nbsp;all received the MIAA Academic Excellence Award for maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/olivia-hollenbeck/7525">Olivia Hollenbeck</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/katie-wagner/7531">Katie Wagner</a>&nbsp;were MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award recipients for holding a GPA north of 3.50 in addition to earning All-MIAA status on the court. The WBCA Academic Top 25 annually recognizes NCAA Division I, II and III; NAIA; and junior/community college women's basketball teams across the nation that carry the highest combined grade point average (GPA) inclusive of all student-athletes on their rosters for the entire season. The 2022-23 season is the 27th in which the WBCA has compiled the honor rolls. This year's release marks the second year in which all teams which reported a minimum 3.0 GPA also are recognized for their academic accomplishment. Fort Hays State's historical rankings in the WBCA Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll and the complete 2022-23 Top 25 can be found below. FHSU in the WBCA Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll Year | Rank - GPA 2022-23 | 6th - 3.805 2021-22 | 1st - 3.814 2020-21 | 3rd - 3.764 2018-19 | 6th - 3.708 2017-18 | 13th - 3.667 2016-17 | 13th - 3.624 2015-16 | 22nd - 3.559 2014-15 | 23rd - 3.536 2012-13 | 14th - 3.500 2011-12 | 4th - 3.628 2010-11 | 12th - 3.523 2009-10 | T14th - 3.473 2002-03 | 16th - 3.444 Rank - Institution - Head Coach - GPA 1 - Upper Iowa - Justin Maass - 3.894 2 - Lubbock Christian - Steve Gomez - 3.882 3 - University of Montevallo - Gary Van Atta - 3.841 4 - Ashland - Kari Pickens - 3.826 5 - Embry-Riddle Aeronautical (FL) - Lisa Wilson - 3.822 6 - Fort Hays State - Tony Hobson - 3.805 7 - Rockhurst - Larry Park - 3.776 8 - Lee - Marty Rowe - 3.763 9 - Mercyhurst - Brooklyn Kohlheim - 3.753 T10 - University of Wisconsin Parkside - Jen Conely - 3.740 T10 - Montana State - Billings - Kevin Woodin - 3.740 12 - William Jewell College - Jill Slominski - 3.736 T13 - Northern Michigan - Casey Thousand - 3.723 T13 - Fort Lewis College - Taylor Harris - 3.723 15 - McKendree - Kari Kerkhoff - 3.719 16 - Tiffin - Josh Mason - 3.713 17 - Truman State - Theo Dean III - 3.707 18 - Maryville - Brita Hand - 3.706 19 - Kutztown - Janet Malouf - 3.701 T20 - Missouri University of Science and Technology - Kira Carter - 3.695 T20 - Southwest Minnesota State - Tom Webb - 3.695 22 - Central Missouri - David Slifer - 3.694 23 - Northwest Missouri State - Austin Meyer - 3.690 24 - Pace - Carrie Seymour - 3.688 25 - St. Cloud State - Lori Fish - 3.682 Special Mention:&nbsp;Thomas Jefferson, Tom Shirley, 3.674; Alaska Fairbanks, Amy Donovan, 3.665; Texas Woman's University, Beth Jillson, 3.659; Seattle Pacific, Mike Simonson, 3.653; Ursuline College, Shannon Sword, 3.648; Pittsburg State, Amanda Davied, 3.644; Northwood, Autumn Haggadone, 3.643; St. Thomas Aquinas College, Bill Cleary, 3.642; California State Polytechnic, Pomona, Danelle Bishop, 3.641; Wayne State (MI), Carrie Lohr, 3.632; Minot State, Michael Brandt, 3.630; Point Loma Nazarene, Charity Elliott, 3.629; California State East Bay, Jenny Thigpin, 3.627; Michigan Technological, Samantha Clayton, 3.616; Minnesota State, Emilee Thiesse, 3.606; Oklahoma Baptist, Bo Overton, 3.600; East Stroudsburg, Stephanie Del Preore, 3.590; Wingate, Ann Hancock, 3.589; Seton Hill, Mark Katarski, 3.577; Winona State , Ana Wurtz, 3.568; Adelphi, Sade Jackson, 3.563; Columbus State, Matt Houser, 3.552; West Liberty, Kyle Cooper, 3.547; Florida Southern College, Megan Dzikas, 3.547; Harding, Tim Kirby, 3.520; Northwest Nazarene, Steve Steele, 3.518; Southern New Hampshire, Karen Pinkos, 3.516; D'Youville, Alison Bouman, 3.502; Hawaii at Hilo, David Kaneshiro, 3.484; Western Washington, Carmen Dolfo, 3.455; Biola, Alan Nakamura, 3.454; Gannon, Cleve Wright, 3.437; Carson-Newman, Michael Mincey, 3.432; West Chester, Kiera Wooden, 3.393; Coker, Melissa DeVore, 3.383; Davenport, Shonda Sanders, 3.375; Union, Mark Campbell, 3.360; Bentley, Carolyn White, 3.359; California State Monterey Bay, Sarah Hopkins-Chery, 3.340; Azusa Pacific, T.J. Hardeman, 3.315; Assumption, Kerry Phayre, 3.298; Chowan, Lenise Stallings, 3.273; California State, Dominguez Hills, John Bonner, 3.224; West Florida, Stephanie Yelton, 3.215; California State, Los Angeles, Torino Johnson, 3.129; California State, San Bernardino, Casandra Renno, 3.108; North Carolina at Pembroke, John Haskins, 3.077; Converse, Samantha Davidson, 3.065.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690902426985.jpeg" alt="The Fort Hays State women's basketball teams huddles before the start of their game with Missouri Western State on Janaury 26, 2023 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Madison Shapland)" />
 <figcaption>The Fort Hays State women's basketball teams huddles before the start of their game with Missouri Western State on Janaury 26, 2023 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Madison Shapland)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics&nbsp; ATLANTA - The Fort Hays State women's basketball team posted the second-best GPA in program history during the 2022-23 season, with the Tigers ranking sixth in Division II on the WBCA Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.805. It is the 12th time the Tigers cracked the top 25 during Tony Hobson's 15-year tenure as head coach, including their fifth appearance inside the top 10. Fort Hays State is the top-ranked MIAA program on the list again this season, with the Tigers doing so in five of the last six years. Two other league schools are ranked in the top 25 in No. 22 Central Missouri and No. 23 Northwest Missouri State. The Tigers placed 13 student-athletes on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll this season, including three that earned the MIAA Academic Excellence Award and two that received the MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/kate-dilsaver/7521">Kate Dilsaver</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/megan-earney/7523">Megan Earney</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/ellie-stearns/7530">Ellie Stearns</a>&nbsp;all received the MIAA Academic Excellence Award for maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/olivia-hollenbeck/7525">Olivia Hollenbeck</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/katie-wagner/7531">Katie Wagner</a>&nbsp;were MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award recipients for holding a GPA north of 3.50 in addition to earning All-MIAA status on the court. The WBCA Academic Top 25 annually recognizes NCAA Division I, II and III; NAIA; and junior/community college women's basketball teams across the nation that carry the highest combined grade point average (GPA) inclusive of all student-athletes on their rosters for the entire season. The 2022-23 season is the 27th in which the WBCA has compiled the honor rolls. This year's release marks the second year in which all teams which reported a minimum 3.0 GPA also are recognized for their academic accomplishment. Fort Hays State's historical rankings in the WBCA Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll and the complete 2022-23 Top 25 can be found below. FHSU in the WBCA Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll Year | Rank - GPA 2022-23 | 6th - 3.805 2021-22 | 1st - 3.814 2020-21 | 3rd - 3.764 2018-19 | 6th - 3.708 2017-18 | 13th - 3.667 2016-17 | 13th - 3.624 2015-16 | 22nd - 3.559 2014-15 | 23rd - 3.536 2012-13 | 14th - 3.500 2011-12 | 4th - 3.628 2010-11 | 12th - 3.523 2009-10 | T14th - 3.473 2002-03 | 16th - 3.444 Rank - Institution - Head Coach - GPA 1 - Upper Iowa - Justin Maass - 3.894 2 - Lubbock Christian - Steve Gomez - 3.882 3 - University of Montevallo - Gary Van Atta - 3.841 4 - Ashland - Kari Pickens - 3.826 5 - Embry-Riddle Aeronautical (FL) - Lisa Wilson - 3.822 6 - Fort Hays State - Tony Hobson - 3.805 7 - Rockhurst - Larry Park - 3.776 8 - Lee - Marty Rowe - 3.763 9 - Mercyhurst - Brooklyn Kohlheim - 3.753 T10 - University of Wisconsin Parkside - Jen Conely - 3.740 T10 - Montana State - Billings - Kevin Woodin - 3.740 12 - William Jewell College - Jill Slominski - 3.736 T13 - Northern Michigan - Casey Thousand - 3.723 T13 - Fort Lewis College - Taylor Harris - 3.723 15 - McKendree - Kari Kerkhoff - 3.719 16 - Tiffin - Josh Mason - 3.713 17 - Truman State - Theo Dean III - 3.707 18 - Maryville - Brita Hand - 3.706 19 - Kutztown - Janet Malouf - 3.701 T20 - Missouri University of Science and Technology - Kira Carter - 3.695 T20 - Southwest Minnesota State - Tom Webb - 3.695 22 - Central Missouri - David Slifer - 3.694 23 - Northwest Missouri State - Austin Meyer - 3.690 24 - Pace - Carrie Seymour - 3.688 25 - St. Cloud State - Lori Fish - 3.682 Special Mention:&nbsp;Thomas Jefferson, Tom Shirley, 3.674; Alaska Fairbanks, Amy Donovan, 3.665; Texas Woman's University, Beth Jillson, 3.659; Seattle Pacific, Mike Simonson, 3.653; Ursuline College, Shannon Sword, 3.648; Pittsburg State, Amanda Davied, 3.644; Northwood, Autumn Haggadone, 3.643; St. Thomas Aquinas College, Bill Cleary, 3.642; California State Polytechnic, Pomona, Danelle Bishop, 3.641; Wayne State (MI), Carrie Lohr, 3.632; Minot State, Michael Brandt, 3.630; Point Loma Nazarene, Charity Elliott, 3.629; California State East Bay, Jenny Thigpin, 3.627; Michigan Technological, Samantha Clayton, 3.616; Minnesota State, Emilee Thiesse, 3.606; Oklahoma Baptist, Bo Overton, 3.600; East Stroudsburg, Stephanie Del Preore, 3.590; Wingate, Ann Hancock, 3.589; Seton Hill, Mark Katarski, 3.577; Winona State , Ana Wurtz, 3.568; Adelphi, Sade Jackson, 3.563; Columbus State, Matt Houser, 3.552; West Liberty, Kyle Cooper, 3.547; Florida Southern College, Megan Dzikas, 3.547; Harding, Tim Kirby, 3.520; Northwest Nazarene, Steve Steele, 3.518; Southern New Hampshire, Karen Pinkos, 3.516; D'Youville, Alison Bouman, 3.502; Hawaii at Hilo, David Kaneshiro, 3.484; Western Washington, Carmen Dolfo, 3.455; Biola, Alan Nakamura, 3.454; Gannon, Cleve Wright, 3.437; Carson-Newman, Michael Mincey, 3.432; West Chester, Kiera Wooden, 3.393; Coker, Melissa DeVore, 3.383; Davenport, Shonda Sanders, 3.375; Union, Mark Campbell, 3.360; Bentley, Carolyn White, 3.359; California State Monterey Bay, Sarah Hopkins-Chery, 3.340; Azusa Pacific, T.J. Hardeman, 3.315; Assumption, Kerry Phayre, 3.298; Chowan, Lenise Stallings, 3.273; California State, Dominguez Hills, John Bonner, 3.224; West Florida, Stephanie Yelton, 3.215; California State, Los Angeles, Torino Johnson, 3.129; California State, San Bernardino, Casandra Renno, 3.108; North Carolina at Pembroke, John Haskins, 3.077; Converse, Samantha Davidson, 3.065.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 FHSU women sixth on WBCA Academic Top 25 Honor Rroll

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/B60o9ftQ-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Dayne Pengelly" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Photo courtesy of&nbsp;Stenzel Film and Ken Windholz Photography.

Meet The Larks: Dayne Pengelly

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have acquired outfielder&nbsp;Nelson Velázquez&nbsp;from the Chicago Cubs for right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Jose Cuas. Velázquez, who is on the 40-man roster, was optioned to Triple-A Omaha.

Velázquez, 24, has appeared in 13 games for the Cubs this season, slashing .241/.313/.621 (7-for-29, .933 OPS) with 5 of his 7 hits going for extra bases (3 home runs). In 90 career games with the Cubs since last season, he has collected 21 extra-base hits and 32 RBI in 238 plate appearances, while appearing defensively at all three outfield positions, including 225.0 innings in center field, 195.0 in right field and 78.1 in left field. In 74 games with Triple-A Iowa this season, he has batted .253 (74-for-292) with 15 doubles, 16 home runs, 7 stolen bases and an .803 OPS.

Over parts of six minor league seasons, he has posted a .256/.326/.462 (421-for-1647, .789 OPS) slashline with 76 home runs, 245 RBI and 245 runs scored. He was the MVP of the 2021 Arizona Fall League after guiding the Mesa Solar Sox to the AFL title with a .385/.480/.712 (40-for-104) slashline that featured 7 doubles, 9 home runs, 24 runs and RBI and 17 walks in 26 games.

A right-handed hitter and thrower, he was originally selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 5th round of the 2017 Draft out of the PJ Education School in Carolina, Puerto Rico, and was signed by Cubs scout&nbsp;Edwards Guzman.

Cuas, 29, signed as a minor league free agent with Kansas City in June 2021 and made his Major League debut with the Royals on May 31, 2022 in Cleveland. Jose was named the&nbsp;Tony Conigliaro&nbsp;Award winner by the Boston Red Sox in 2022, an award that is given to a “Major Leaguer who has overcome adversity through the attributes of spirit, determination, and courage that were trademarks of Tony C.”

He has appeared in 45 games for the Royals this season, posting a 4.54 ERA (21 ER in 41.2 IP) with 52 strikeouts (27.1 K%) and 36 inherited runners, which ranks tied for 5th&nbsp;in the Majors.

Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have acquired outfielder&nbsp;Nelson Velázquez&nbsp;from the Chicago Cubs for right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Jose Cuas. Velázquez, who is on the 40-man roster, was optioned to Triple-A Omaha.Velázquez, 24, has appeared in 13 games for the Cubs this season, slashing .241/.313/.621 (7-for-29, .933 OPS) with 5 of his 7 hits going for extra bases (3 home runs). In 90 career games with the Cubs since last season, he has collected 21 extra-base hits and 32 RBI in 238 plate appearances, while appearing defensively at all three outfield positions, including 225.0 innings in center field, 195.0 in right field and 78.1 in left field. In 74 games with Triple-A Iowa this season, he has batted .253 (74-for-292) with 15 doubles, 16 home runs, 7 stolen bases and an .803 OPS.Over parts of six minor league seasons, he has posted a .256/.326/.462 (421-for-1647, .789 OPS) slashline with 76 home runs, 245 RBI and 245 runs scored. He was the MVP of the 2021 Arizona Fall League after guiding the Mesa Solar Sox to the AFL title with a .385/.480/.712 (40-for-104) slashline that featured 7 doubles, 9 home runs, 24 runs and RBI and 17 walks in 26 games.A right-handed hitter and thrower, he was originally selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 5th round of the 2017 Draft out of the PJ Education School in Carolina, Puerto Rico, and was signed by Cubs scout&nbsp;Edwards Guzman.Cuas, 29, signed as a minor league free agent with Kansas City in June 2021 and made his Major League debut with the Royals on May 31, 2022 in Cleveland. Jose was named the&nbsp;Tony Conigliaro&nbsp;Award winner by the Boston Red Sox in 2022, an award that is given to a “Major Leaguer who has overcome adversity through the attributes of spirit, determination, and courage that were trademarks of Tony C.”He has appeared in 45 games for the Royals this season, posting a 4.54 ERA (21 ER in 41.2 IP) with 52 strikeouts (27.1 K%) and 36 inherited runners, which ranks tied for 5th&nbsp;in the Majors.

⚾ Royals trade Cuas to Cubs for outfielder Nelson Velazquez

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs need look no further than last season's playoffs, and the sight of Patrick Mahomes hobbling to the sideline against the Jacksonville Jaguars with a high ankle sprain, to understand the importance in protecting their quarterback.

Yet oddly enough, they were OK watching both of their starting offensive tackles leave in free agency.

The big blow was the departure of left tackle Orlando Brown Jr., for whom the Chiefs paid the Ravens handsomely in a trade, when the two sides failed to reach an agreement on a long-term deal.

But nearly as painful was the loss of right tackle Andrew Wylie, who had gone from an afterthought fighting for a job to one of the more reliable players along the offensive line.

Rarely do the Chiefs make such moves without a plan, though. General manager Brett Veach acted quickly to sign ex-Tampa Bay tackle Donovan Smith to handle the left side and former Jacksonville tackle Jawaan Taylor to handle the right, then Veach used a third-round pick on Oklahoma's Wanya Morris to create instant competition at both positions.

So far, Chiefs coach Andy Reid — an old offensive line coach — has liked what he's seen.

“You're never sure exactly what you're going to get there,” Reid said, “but they're competing and that's important. That's an important part of this, that you're able to push through these practices, run and pass. I like the way they work their game.”

The decision to put Mahomes' health in the hands of Smith and Taylor is a gamble, though. Neither of them graded out particularly well last season, depending on the metric you use, though both of them have shown flashes of high-level play in the past.

Smith, for example, ranked No. 66 among 81 offensive tackles by Pro Football Focus. Taylor was just one spot better.

But the Chiefs have established a track record of unlocking the potential in relatively unheralded players, particularly along the offensive line, where assistant coach Andy Heck is among the best in the business.

Wylie is a prime example: He was undrafted out of Eastern Michigan and wound up earning two Super Bowl rings in Kansas City before signing with Washington.

“All of us have played a lot of football and a lot of big games, tough games,” Taylor said. “We’re all smart mentally, physically. It’s just more so we’re tying in each and every individual aspect of who we are and how we play and tying it together and figuring out what works, what meshes. You know, just the many things we bring to the table per guy I would say is our strength.”

Another strength is having one of the best interior offensive lines in the NFL. Left guard Joe Thuney is considered one of the top five in the league at his position, right guard Trey Smith is likewise considered a top-tier guard, and center Creed Humphrey was picked for the Pro Bowl in just his second season in the league.

It also helps having Mahomes calling out the signals.

“Just a great leader man. He brings that energy every day, you know? He holds everybody accountable,” Donovan Smith said. "You mess up, we are going to redo it. Even in the walk-throughs and the learning periods, we always slow it down and we get to learn the offense. That’s been helping me a lot with the walk-throughs and learning the things they like doing here.”

The Chiefs were fortunate to overcome Mahomes' ankle injury in the playoffs. He returned in the second half to lead them past Jacksonville in the divisional round, and he hobbled through an AFC title game-thriller against Cincinnati, before hurting the ankle again in the Super Bowl — and then leading the Chiefs past Philadelphia for the Lombardi Trophy.

The pressure is on the Chiefs' new offensive tackles to prevent the same such stress this season.

NOTES: RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire returned to practice Monday after missing the previous two with an illness. ... TE Jody Fortson (shoulder), WR Kadarius Toney (knee) and DE Mike Danna (calf) were among those that remained out. P Tommy Townsend also spent time in the medical tent, though no reason was given by the Chiefs. ... DT Chris Jones continued his holdout. He has been fined $50,000 for each day missed, which brings the total to $550,000. ... The Chiefs had a short practice Monday after three consecutive workouts in pads. They are off Tuesday before resuming camp Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690884338994.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes looks to pass during NFL football training camp Friday, July 28, 2023, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes looks to pass during NFL football training camp Friday, July 28, 2023, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs need look no further than last season's playoffs, and the sight of Patrick Mahomes hobbling to the sideline against the Jacksonville Jaguars with a high ankle sprain, to understand the importance in protecting their quarterback.Yet oddly enough, they were OK watching both of their starting offensive tackles leave in free agency.The big blow was the departure of left tackle Orlando Brown Jr., for whom the Chiefs paid the Ravens handsomely in a trade, when the two sides failed to reach an agreement on a long-term deal.But nearly as painful was the loss of right tackle Andrew Wylie, who had gone from an afterthought fighting for a job to one of the more reliable players along the offensive line.Rarely do the Chiefs make such moves without a plan, though. General manager Brett Veach acted quickly to sign ex-Tampa Bay tackle Donovan Smith to handle the left side and former Jacksonville tackle Jawaan Taylor to handle the right, then Veach used a third-round pick on Oklahoma's Wanya Morris to create instant competition at both positions.So far, Chiefs coach Andy Reid — an old offensive line coach — has liked what he's seen.“You're never sure exactly what you're going to get there,” Reid said, “but they're competing and that's important. That's an important part of this, that you're able to push through these practices, run and pass. I like the way they work their game.”The decision to put Mahomes' health in the hands of Smith and Taylor is a gamble, though. Neither of them graded out particularly well last season, depending on the metric you use, though both of them have shown flashes of high-level play in the past.Smith, for example, ranked No. 66 among 81 offensive tackles by Pro Football Focus. Taylor was just one spot better.But the Chiefs have established a track record of unlocking the potential in relatively unheralded players, particularly along the offensive line, where assistant coach Andy Heck is among the best in the business.Wylie is a prime example: He was undrafted out of Eastern Michigan and wound up earning two Super Bowl rings in Kansas City before signing with Washington.“All of us have played a lot of football and a lot of big games, tough games,” Taylor said. “We’re all smart mentally, physically. It’s just more so we’re tying in each and every individual aspect of who we are and how we play and tying it together and figuring out what works, what meshes. You know, just the many things we bring to the table per guy I would say is our strength.”Another strength is having one of the best interior offensive lines in the NFL. Left guard Joe Thuney is considered one of the top five in the league at his position, right guard Trey Smith is likewise considered a top-tier guard, and center Creed Humphrey was picked for the Pro Bowl in just his second season in the league.It also helps having Mahomes calling out the signals.“Just a great leader man. He brings that energy every day, you know? He holds everybody accountable,” Donovan Smith said. "You mess up, we are going to redo it. Even in the walk-throughs and the learning periods, we always slow it down and we get to learn the offense. That’s been helping me a lot with the walk-throughs and learning the things they like doing here.”The Chiefs were fortunate to overcome Mahomes' ankle injury in the playoffs. He returned in the second half to lead them past Jacksonville in the divisional round, and he hobbled through an AFC title game-thriller against Cincinnati, before hurting the ankle again in the Super Bowl — and then leading the Chiefs past Philadelphia for the Lombardi Trophy.The pressure is on the Chiefs' new offensive tackles to prevent the same such stress this season.NOTES: RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire returned to practice Monday after missing the previous two with an illness. ... TE Jody Fortson (shoulder), WR Kadarius Toney (knee) and DE Mike Danna (calf) were among those that remained out. P Tommy Townsend also spent time in the medical tent, though no reason was given by the Chiefs. ... DT Chris Jones continued his holdout. He has been fined $50,000 for each day missed, which brings the total to $550,000. ... The Chiefs had a short practice Monday after three consecutive workouts in pads. They are off Tuesday before resuming camp Wednesday.

🏈 Chiefs to rely on new offensive tackles to protect Patrick Mahomes this season

The 14th&nbsp;annual Tiger Auction and Dinner will take place on Saturday, August 19&nbsp;in the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Doors open at 4 p.m., dinner is served at 5 p.m., and the live auction begins at 6:30 p.m. and will end around 10 p.m. Tickets are available online or through the FHSU Athletic Department at 785-628-4050. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/feature/fhsutigerauction">www.tigerauction.org</a>&nbsp;for more information on the event. The event on Saturday, August 19 consists of about 80 live auction items and about 200 silent auction items. Ticket Price Increases After August 4 Get your tickets today by purchasing online or dropping by the FHSU Athletics office on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Tickets are $100 per person, but the price will increase to $125 per person starting August 5. The event is limited to 800 tickets sold. A ticket is good for admission to the event and a bid number, along with food and unlimited drinks throughout the evening. <a href="https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2new/BuyNew.asp?EventID=329738">BUY TICKETS HERE</a> FHSU Athletic Office Summer Hours (until Aug. 4) 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Friday Closed Saturday and Sunday Phone: (785) 628-4050 Office hours return to standard 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday on August 7. Online Auction There is still an online portion of the auction with a limited number of items that precedes the live in-person event running from Monday, August 14 through Wednesday, August 16, which will give supporters an additional chance to support Tiger Athletics from any location. Raffle Tickets Supporters can purchase $50 raffle tickets, which are good for a chance to win eight $1,000 cash prizes given out throughout the night (you do not have to be present to win). A $2000 cash prize will be given out before the last live item is sold, but the winner must be present for that drawing. Chamber Chat on Friday, August 18 FHSU Athletics will host a Chamber Chat at the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility on Friday, August 18 at 9 a.m. Tiger supporters can get a sneak peek at some of the items at that event. Table Sponsors If you would like to be a table sponsor for $2,000, it includes auction tickets for 12 at your table, along with two all-sport general admission season tickets, and recognition in the auction catalog. Tables without sponsorship for 12 people can be purchased for $1,200. Tiger Auction Item #40 Unlike previous years, Item #40 this year is not a tangible item. The simple truth is our biggest need is addressing&nbsp;Scholarships&nbsp;and inflationary costs associated with all aspects of our operations. By specifically targeting&nbsp;Scholarships, we will free up resources necessary to address the rising costs associated with day-to-day operations such as team transportation, meals, lodging, facility upkeep, etc. While tangible items are always exciting for the advancement of our programs, this year's needs are no less important in providing a quality experience for our approximately 500 student-athletes. Your donation to #40 will directly impact those student-athlete experiences! Our Item #40 goal this year is to generate an additional $100,000 on the day of the auction. Truly, every gift matters, so please consider making a tax-deductible donation to Item #40 this year. Donations can be paid in installments throughout the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. This is one of the biggest annual events for the FHSU Athletic Department, which raised a record $778,501 in 2022. It was the first time Tiger supporters graciously topped the $500,000 mark in the 13-year history of the event. This will be the sixth Tiger Auction and Dinner hosted inside the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility, which has served as the venue for the event since 2017. The move to the large, spacious facility was a necessity due to this very popular event selling out year after year when held at the Memorial Union Ballroom in its early years. The move has allowed several more Tiger supporters to attend annually in recent years. Thank you in advance for your support of Tiger Athletics!&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690561791156.jpeg" alt="FHSU-Tiger Auction.jpg" />
 <figcaption>FHSU-Tiger Auction.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsThe 14th&nbsp;annual Tiger Auction and Dinner will take place on Saturday, August 19&nbsp;in the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Doors open at 4 p.m., dinner is served at 5 p.m., and the live auction begins at 6:30 p.m. and will end around 10 p.m. Tickets are available online or through the FHSU Athletic Department at 785-628-4050. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/feature/fhsutigerauction">www.tigerauction.org</a>&nbsp;for more information on the event. The event on Saturday, August 19 consists of about 80 live auction items and about 200 silent auction items. Ticket Price Increases After August 4 Get your tickets today by purchasing online or dropping by the FHSU Athletics office on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Tickets are $100 per person, but the price will increase to $125 per person starting August 5. The event is limited to 800 tickets sold. A ticket is good for admission to the event and a bid number, along with food and unlimited drinks throughout the evening. <a href="https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2new/BuyNew.asp?EventID=329738">BUY TICKETS HERE</a> FHSU Athletic Office Summer Hours (until Aug. 4) 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Friday Closed Saturday and Sunday Phone: (785) 628-4050 Office hours return to standard 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday on August 7. Online Auction There is still an online portion of the auction with a limited number of items that precedes the live in-person event running from Monday, August 14 through Wednesday, August 16, which will give supporters an additional chance to support Tiger Athletics from any location. Raffle Tickets Supporters can purchase $50 raffle tickets, which are good for a chance to win eight $1,000 cash prizes given out throughout the night (you do not have to be present to win). A $2000 cash prize will be given out before the last live item is sold, but the winner must be present for that drawing. Chamber Chat on Friday, August 18 FHSU Athletics will host a Chamber Chat at the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility on Friday, August 18 at 9 a.m. Tiger supporters can get a sneak peek at some of the items at that event. Table Sponsors If you would like to be a table sponsor for $2,000, it includes auction tickets for 12 at your table, along with two all-sport general admission season tickets, and recognition in the auction catalog. Tables without sponsorship for 12 people can be purchased for $1,200. Tiger Auction Item #40 Unlike previous years, Item #40 this year is not a tangible item. The simple truth is our biggest need is addressing&nbsp;Scholarships&nbsp;and inflationary costs associated with all aspects of our operations. By specifically targeting&nbsp;Scholarships, we will free up resources necessary to address the rising costs associated with day-to-day operations such as team transportation, meals, lodging, facility upkeep, etc. While tangible items are always exciting for the advancement of our programs, this year's needs are no less important in providing a quality experience for our approximately 500 student-athletes. Your donation to #40 will directly impact those student-athlete experiences! Our Item #40 goal this year is to generate an additional $100,000 on the day of the auction. Truly, every gift matters, so please consider making a tax-deductible donation to Item #40 this year. Donations can be paid in installments throughout the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. This is one of the biggest annual events for the FHSU Athletic Department, which raised a record $778,501 in 2022. It was the first time Tiger supporters graciously topped the $500,000 mark in the 13-year history of the event. This will be the sixth Tiger Auction and Dinner hosted inside the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility, which has served as the venue for the event since 2017. The move to the large, spacious facility was a necessity due to this very popular event selling out year after year when held at the Memorial Union Ballroom in its early years. The move has allowed several more Tiger supporters to attend annually in recent years. Thank you in advance for your support of Tiger Athletics!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tickets available for 14th annual Tiger Auction and Dinner

***The deadline to purchase tickets for the 2nd Annual Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet is today, July 31, 2023.

The banquet will be held Saturday, August 12th at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall. A social hour will begin at 5:00. The banquet begins at 6:00 with supper at 6:15. Induction begins after supper. Dress for the event is business casual.

&nbsp; Tickets are available at American Family Insurance - Brian Ruder (1601 E 27th) and online&nbsp;<a href="https://event.auctria.com/2fac0ad9-0e2a-4f04-b550-4ab7e3521ffd/">event.auctria.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This list of this year's inductees includes:&nbsp;

- Darrel Herl (1974) - Bob Lowen (1972) - Rich Green (1969) - Brady Maska (2004) - Kim Engel (1987) - Andre Schmidt (1983) - Bob Davis - Boys Cross Country teams of 1970, 1971, 1972, and 1973

The Hays High Hall of Fame is also setting up a scholarship fund for Hays High athletes. Donations can be made to the fund at the ticket website.

Anybody that would like to sponsor the banquet is welcome to send a message to hayshighhof@gmail.com.

Information about the Hays High Hall of Fame can be found on their Facebook page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684438843553.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>***The deadline to purchase tickets for the 2nd Annual Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet is today, July 31, 2023.The banquet will be held Saturday, August 12th at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall. A social hour will begin at 5:00. The banquet begins at 6:00 with supper at 6:15. Induction begins after supper. Dress for the event is business casual.&nbsp; Tickets are available at American Family Insurance - Brian Ruder (1601 E 27th) and online&nbsp;<a href="https://event.auctria.com/2fac0ad9-0e2a-4f04-b550-4ab7e3521ffd/">event.auctria.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;This list of this year's inductees includes:&nbsp;- Darrel Herl (1974) - Bob Lowen (1972) - Rich Green (1969) - Brady Maska (2004) - Kim Engel (1987) - Andre Schmidt (1983) - Bob Davis - Boys Cross Country teams of 1970, 1971, 1972, and 1973The Hays High Hall of Fame is also setting up a scholarship fund for Hays High athletes. Donations can be made to the fund at the ticket website.Anybody that would like to sponsor the banquet is welcome to send a message to hayshighhof@gmail.com.Information about the Hays High Hall of Fame can be found on their Facebook page.

Ticket Deadline TODAY for HHS Athletics HOF Banquet

The Hays Striders finished their final week of training for the 2023 AAU Junior Olympic Games now underway through August 5 at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.

Seventeen of the 132 athletes who make up the Striders team qualified to move on to the national meet by competing in the Missouri Valley District and Region 16 qualifiers in Hays and Yukon, Oklahoma respectively. An athlete qualifies for the Junior Olympics by finishing in the top six at the regional meet. 

Coming out of the meet in Yukon, Oklahoma, the Striders had five regional champions all earning gold medals, with two athletes earning&nbsp; regional champion in three events at the Oklahoma meet.

Riley Leiker powered her way to gold in three events in the 8-Under Girls Division by taking first in the 400-m dash (1:14.21), 800-m run (2:54.05) and shot put (21’7.50”).

Emery Zimmerman continued his dominance in the 11-year-old Boys Division by earning gold in the 800-meter run (2:28.31), the 1500 (4:59.51), and 3000-meter run (10:46.63). He also qualified in the pentathlon (3rd, 1786 points).

Other regional champions included Tayte Lewallen, providing an amazing run in the 11-year-old Boys Division 80-meter hurdles to take the gold (14.72) and also qualified in the 800-meter run (3rd, 2:38.03) and pentathlon (2nd, 1865 points). 

Kane Staab tossed his way to gold in the discus in the 11-year-old Boys Division (62’05”) and also qualified in the shot put (2nd, 31’2”). 

Lyndi Zimmerman took Regional Champion gold in the shot put (38’3”), and pentathlon (2883). Zimmerman also qualified in the 200-meter dash (3rd, 25.35) 100-meter hurdles (2nd, 15.73) and 200-meter hurdles (3rd, 30.58).

“These athletes work hard, day in and day out, rain or shine, cold weather or hot; and are all champions. From the regional winners, the Junior Olympic qualifiers, down to the athlete who comes to our team to try it out for just a couple of months, we try to train them all to improve every day,” Head Coach Dave Haberman said.&nbsp;

Other qualifiers, along with their regional finishes and performances, include multi-sport athlete Kersee Wince, 8-Under Girls, shot put (6th, 12’2”);&nbsp; Plainville talent Jovie Staab, 8-Under Girls turbo javelin (4th, 32’1”); La Crosse powerhouse Danica Vap, 12-Girls, shot put (3rd, 31’6.75”) and discus (2nd, 86’1”); another Plainville talent, Hayden Staab 12-Girls shot put (2nd, 32’0.25”) and discus (3rd, 79’); gifted incoming Hays Middle School athlete Sydney Lewallen, 13-Girls, 400-meter dash (6th, 1:03.36) and 800-meter run (4th, 2:30.87); and incoming Hays High freshman force Makayla Lewallen, 14-Girls, pentathlon (2nd, 2309 points) and high jump (3rd, 4’8”).

Zippy Finley Zimmerman, 8-Under Boys qualified in the 1500-meter run with a fifth place finish at 6:38.82. Strongman Jacob Leiker qualified in the shot put (5th, 31’10.25”) and discus (5th, 73’02). Kobe Schmidt ran a season best in the 12-Boys 400-meter dash, finishing 6th (1:02.28); and teammate Robbie Readle ran the best race of his season to win his heat in the 400 at 1:15.12, also in the 12-Boys Division.

Logan Leiker, another incoming freshman and future star at Hays High School, qualified in the 14-Boys 3000-meter run by running 10:46.63, taking sixth.&nbsp;

Multi-talented runner Brayden Staley, 15-16 Boys, qualified in the 2000-meter steeplechase running 7:41.91.&nbsp;

Hays High football and track athlete Kamani Jones, who took sixth at the KSHSAA State meet in the Class 5A triple jump this past season, qualified in the rriple jump for the Junior Olympics (3rd, 41’11”) and high jump (5th, 5’10”).

Haberman said he would put these kids up against any in the nation and would be very confident they would be competitive.

 “Several of our Striders are ranked in the top 10 in the nation coming into the Junior Olympics," he said.

Some of the events will have over 100 athletes from across the country competing. “We have never seen this many Striders in the Top 10!” Haberman exclaimed. “Their work ethic is top shelf and we’re excited to see them compete against the best in the nation.”

Haberman is referring to Lyndi Zimmerman who has the top seed in the pentathlon. Riley Leiker, Hayden Staab, Danica Vap, Emery Zimmerman, Tayte Lewallen, and Kane Staab are the Striders with the Top 10 incoming times or distances.

“We also have about a dozen first-class coaches for our Strider athletes,” Haberman added. “Elaine Haberman (sprints, long and triple jump), Hunter Hearne (throws), Hannah Wince (high jump and hurdles), and Brooklyn Lewallen (hurdles) take the bulk of the duties; while Fort Hays State University athletes Abby Rueschhoff, Meredith Lewallen, Lynn Leiker, Jennifer Werth, Traci Vap, Mike Smith, and TJ Staab contribute substantially&nbsp; to Strider performance success.”&nbsp;

Of the 58 Striders who qualified from the district meet in Hays, there were 22 who competed in the regional qualifier in Yukon, Oklahoma.

 The region is made up of AAU teams in Kansas, Oklahoma, eastern Missouri, and northwest Arkansas. It is considered one of the hardest qualifying meets in the nation to qualify from to compete in the National meet.&nbsp;

Other notable performances from the regional meet include newcomer Channing Leiker, 15-16 Boys, 110-meter high hurdles (12th, 20.98) and 400-meter Hurdles (9th, 1:11.24); Hays High jumper Kaliyah Bannister 15-16 Girls long jump (9th, 15’9”); Russell’s Aubrey Briney 15-16 Girls long jump (13th, 14’7.50”) high jump (10th, 4’6”) and triple jump (8th, 31’9”); Kyla Schmidt, coming off of an injury, 15-16 Girls, long jump (24th, 12’2.50) and triple jump (7th, 31’11”); and the Strider throwing stalwart Caleb Englert, 15-16 discus, (12th, 91’2.75” and shot put (13th, 32’4”).&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690814007629.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Striders finished their final week of training for the 2023 AAU Junior Olympic Games now underway through August 5 at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.Seventeen of the 132 athletes who make up the Striders team qualified to move on to the national meet by competing in the Missouri Valley District and Region 16 qualifiers in Hays and Yukon, Oklahoma respectively. An athlete qualifies for the Junior Olympics by finishing in the top six at the regional meet. Coming out of the meet in Yukon, Oklahoma, the Striders had five regional champions all earning gold medals, with two athletes earning&nbsp; regional champion in three events at the Oklahoma meet.Riley Leiker powered her way to gold in three events in the 8-Under Girls Division by taking first in the 400-m dash (1:14.21), 800-m run (2:54.05) and shot put (21’7.50”).Emery Zimmerman continued his dominance in the 11-year-old Boys Division by earning gold in the 800-meter run (2:28.31), the 1500 (4:59.51), and 3000-meter run (10:46.63). He also qualified in the pentathlon (3rd, 1786 points).Other regional champions included Tayte Lewallen, providing an amazing run in the 11-year-old Boys Division 80-meter hurdles to take the gold (14.72) and also qualified in the 800-meter run (3rd, 2:38.03) and pentathlon (2nd, 1865 points). Kane Staab tossed his way to gold in the discus in the 11-year-old Boys Division (62’05”) and also qualified in the shot put (2nd, 31’2”). Lyndi Zimmerman took Regional Champion gold in the shot put (38’3”), and pentathlon (2883). Zimmerman also qualified in the 200-meter dash (3rd, 25.35) 100-meter hurdles (2nd, 15.73) and 200-meter hurdles (3rd, 30.58).“These athletes work hard, day in and day out, rain or shine, cold weather or hot; and are all champions. From the regional winners, the Junior Olympic qualifiers, down to the athlete who comes to our team to try it out for just a couple of months, we try to train them all to improve every day,” Head Coach Dave Haberman said.&nbsp;Other qualifiers, along with their regional finishes and performances, include multi-sport athlete Kersee Wince, 8-Under Girls, shot put (6th, 12’2”);&nbsp; Plainville talent Jovie Staab, 8-Under Girls turbo javelin (4th, 32’1”); La Crosse powerhouse Danica Vap, 12-Girls, shot put (3rd, 31’6.75”) and discus (2nd, 86’1”); another Plainville talent, Hayden Staab 12-Girls shot put (2nd, 32’0.25”) and discus (3rd, 79’); gifted incoming Hays Middle School athlete Sydney Lewallen, 13-Girls, 400-meter dash (6th, 1:03.36) and 800-meter run (4th, 2:30.87); and incoming Hays High freshman force Makayla Lewallen, 14-Girls, pentathlon (2nd, 2309 points) and high jump (3rd, 4’8”).Zippy Finley Zimmerman, 8-Under Boys qualified in the 1500-meter run with a fifth place finish at 6:38.82. Strongman Jacob Leiker qualified in the shot put (5th, 31’10.25”) and discus (5th, 73’02). Kobe Schmidt ran a season best in the 12-Boys 400-meter dash, finishing 6th (1:02.28); and teammate Robbie Readle ran the best race of his season to win his heat in the 400 at 1:15.12, also in the 12-Boys Division.Logan Leiker, another incoming freshman and future star at Hays High School, qualified in the 14-Boys 3000-meter run by running 10:46.63, taking sixth.&nbsp;Multi-talented runner Brayden Staley, 15-16 Boys, qualified in the 2000-meter steeplechase running 7:41.91.&nbsp;Hays High football and track athlete Kamani Jones, who took sixth at the KSHSAA State meet in the Class 5A triple jump this past season, qualified in the rriple jump for the Junior Olympics (3rd, 41’11”) and high jump (5th, 5’10”).Haberman said he would put these kids up against any in the nation and would be very confident they would be competitive. “Several of our Striders are ranked in the top 10 in the nation coming into the Junior Olympics," he said.Some of the events will have over 100 athletes from across the country competing. “We have never seen this many Striders in the Top 10!” Haberman exclaimed. “Their work ethic is top shelf and we’re excited to see them compete against the best in the nation.”Haberman is referring to Lyndi Zimmerman who has the top seed in the pentathlon. Riley Leiker, Hayden Staab, Danica Vap, Emery Zimmerman, Tayte Lewallen, and Kane Staab are the Striders with the Top 10 incoming times or distances.“We also have about a dozen first-class coaches for our Strider athletes,” Haberman added. “Elaine Haberman (sprints, long and triple jump), Hunter Hearne (throws), Hannah Wince (high jump and hurdles), and Brooklyn Lewallen (hurdles) take the bulk of the duties; while Fort Hays State University athletes Abby Rueschhoff, Meredith Lewallen, Lynn Leiker, Jennifer Werth, Traci Vap, Mike Smith, and TJ Staab contribute substantially&nbsp; to Strider performance success.”&nbsp;Of the 58 Striders who qualified from the district meet in Hays, there were 22 who competed in the regional qualifier in Yukon, Oklahoma. The region is made up of AAU teams in Kansas, Oklahoma, eastern Missouri, and northwest Arkansas. It is considered one of the hardest qualifying meets in the nation to qualify from to compete in the National meet.&nbsp;Other notable performances from the regional meet include newcomer Channing Leiker, 15-16 Boys, 110-meter high hurdles (12th, 20.98) and 400-meter Hurdles (9th, 1:11.24); Hays High jumper Kaliyah Bannister 15-16 Girls long jump (9th, 15’9”); Russell’s Aubrey Briney 15-16 Girls long jump (13th, 14’7.50”) high jump (10th, 4’6”) and triple jump (8th, 31’9”); Kyla Schmidt, coming off of an injury, 15-16 Girls, long jump (24th, 12’2.50) and triple jump (7th, 31’11”); and the Strider throwing stalwart Caleb Englert, 15-16 discus, (12th, 91’2.75” and shot put (13th, 32’4”).&nbsp;

👟 Hays Striders prepared for Junior Olympics underway through Saturday

Voice of the Tigers Gerard Wellbrock visits with junior defensive back Mason Perez at MIAA Football Media Day.

Voice of the Tigers Gerard Wellbrock visits with junior defensive back Mason Perez at MIAA Football Media Day.<div><iframe title="Mason Perez" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qyvxs-146bb59-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: Mason Perez

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/xXhXoWMk-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Garrett Gruell" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Photo courtesy of&nbsp;Stenzel Film and Ken Windholz Photography.

Meet The Larks: Garrett Gruell

HAYS – The Hays Larks
struck early, scoring three runs in the first then adding another in the second
and beat the North Platte Plainsmen 4-2 Sunday night at Larks Park to close out
the regular season.

John Cecollo drove in the
first run with a sacrifice fly. L Ashby and Tyler LaRue both scored on a wild
pitch. Trent Baker led off the second with a single and scored on a wild pitch
for the Larks fourth run.

The Plainsmen (17-32) scored
a run in the fifth then got another in the seventh and had runners at second and
third when Dayne Pengelly got a flyout to end the inning. The Larks got two
runners out at the plate in the eighth then worked around a couple of two-out singles
in the ninth to hold on for the win.

Trent Baker and Garrett
Gruell both had two of the Larks five hits as Hays won their eighth-straight game.

Dylan Hill (2-1) allowed
one run on two hits with two strikeouts and a walk in two innings of relief and
picked up the win. Dayne Pengelly pitched the final three innings and allowed
one run on five hits with two strikeouts and a walk and got his second save.

The Larks will face the
Hutchinson Monarchs of the Jayhawk League Friday at 6:00 p.m. in their pool
play opener at the NBC World Series at Eck Stadium in Wichita.

You can hear all of the Larks
games from the NBC World Series on 96.9, KFIX.

Hays PostHAYS – The Hays Larks
struck early, scoring three runs in the first then adding another in the second
and beat the North Platte Plainsmen 4-2 Sunday night at Larks Park to close out
the regular season.John Cecollo drove in the
first run with a sacrifice fly. L Ashby and Tyler LaRue both scored on a wild
pitch. Trent Baker led off the second with a single and scored on a wild pitch
for the Larks fourth run.The Plainsmen (17-32) scored
a run in the fifth then got another in the seventh and had runners at second and
third when Dayne Pengelly got a flyout to end the inning. The Larks got two
runners out at the plate in the eighth then worked around a couple of two-out singles
in the ninth to hold on for the win.Trent Baker and Garrett
Gruell both had two of the Larks five hits as Hays won their eighth-straight game.Dylan Hill (2-1) allowed
one run on two hits with two strikeouts and a walk in two innings of relief and
picked up the win. Dayne Pengelly pitched the final three innings and allowed
one run on five hits with two strikeouts and a walk and got his second save.UP NEXTThe Larks will face the
Hutchinson Monarchs of the Jayhawk League Friday at 6:00 p.m. in their pool
play opener at the NBC World Series at Eck Stadium in Wichita.You can hear all of the Larks
games from the NBC World Series on 96.9, KFIX.

⚾ Larks close out regular season with win over Plainsmen

HAYS - Markus Hilger shot a tournament low 66 in his final round Sunday at Smoky Hill Country Club and won the Hays Recreation Commission's Merchants Golf Tournament by one stroke over Mike Butler.

Hilger shot a 68 in the first round Saturday at the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course.

Butler shot an opening round 66 and was the leader after day one then closed with a 69 in Sunday's final round.

Lonnie Melvin placed third in the Championship Flight with a two-round total of 140, six shots behind Hilger. Seth Oakley placed fourth with a 141.

Joe Roth, Curt Kitson and Mark Robben all shot a&nbsp; 137 to lead the Senior Flight.

Michael Reese and Ashton Dowell both shot a 146 to lead the First Flight.

Korey Koehn, Tate Wiemer and Jerol DeBoer led the Second Flight at 163.

Tyler Walters, Brady Jones and Sharon Honeyman led the Thrid Flight at 168

Steve Schumacher and John Dreiling topped the Fourth Flight at 179.

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 </figure>Hays PostHAYS - Markus Hilger shot a tournament low 66 in his final round Sunday at Smoky Hill Country Club and won the Hays Recreation Commission's Merchants Golf Tournament by one stroke over Mike Butler.Hilger shot a 68 in the first round Saturday at the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course.Butler shot an opening round 66 and was the leader after day one then closed with a 69 in Sunday's final round.Lonnie Melvin placed third in the Championship Flight with a two-round total of 140, six shots behind Hilger. Seth Oakley placed fourth with a 141.Joe Roth, Curt Kitson and Mark Robben all shot a&nbsp; 137 to lead the Senior Flight.Michael Reese and Ashton Dowell both shot a 146 to lead the First Flight.Korey Koehn, Tate Wiemer and Jerol DeBoer led the Second Flight at 163.Tyler Walters, Brady Jones and Sharon Honeyman led the Thrid Flight at 168Steve Schumacher and John Dreiling topped the Fourth Flight at 179.Jerry Kanzerbach won the Fifth Flight at 189. Terry Gasper won the Sixth Flight with a 199.<figure>
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