NEW YORK (AP) — Aaron Judge became the first big leaguer with 40 homers this season, smashed a grand slam for No. 41 and robbed a home run in right field as the New York Yankees rallied to beat the Kansas City Royals 11-5 Friday night.

Isiah Kiner-Falefa lined a tiebreaking single in the eighth inning as New York completed its major league-leading 29th comeback victory.

Judge was lavished with “MVP!” chants throughout the night, none louder than after his slam in the eighth cemented yet another Yankees rally. He also had a single and finished with six RBIs.

Judge and Anthony Rizzo homered early on a rainy night in the Bronx, but Kansas City came back against Gerrit Cole, with Whit Merrifield’s two-run single in the fifth ending a scoreless drought of 31 2/3 innings for the Royals.

Salvador Perez followed Merrifield with a go-ahead, three-run homer in his return from the injured list.

New York erased its deficit by batting around during a messy eighth inning that followed a 23-minute rain delay.

Albert Abreu (2-0) pitched a scoreless eighth against a Kansas City team that waived him June 21. Scott Barlow (4-4) took the loss.

Judge began the game by reaching over the right-field fence to rob MJ Melendez of a homer.

NEW YORK (AP) — Aaron Judge became the first big leaguer with 40 homers this season, smashed a grand slam for No. 41 and robbed a home run in right field as the New York Yankees rallied to beat the Kansas City Royals 11-5 Friday night.Isiah Kiner-Falefa lined a tiebreaking single in the eighth inning as New York completed its major league-leading 29th comeback victory.Judge was lavished with “MVP!” chants throughout the night, none louder than after his slam in the eighth cemented yet another Yankees rally. He also had a single and finished with six RBIs.Judge and Anthony Rizzo homered early on a rainy night in the Bronx, but Kansas City came back against Gerrit Cole, with Whit Merrifield’s two-run single in the fifth ending a scoreless drought of 31 2/3 innings for the Royals.Salvador Perez followed Merrifield with a go-ahead, three-run homer in his return from the injured list.New York erased its deficit by batting around during a messy eighth inning that followed a 23-minute rain delay.Albert Abreu (2-0) pitched a scoreless eighth against a Kansas City team that waived him June 21. Scott Barlow (4-4) took the loss.Judge began the game by reaching over the right-field fence to rob MJ Melendez of a homer.

⚾ Judge’s 6 RBIs, MLB-best 41 homers leads Yankees past Royals

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Chiefs founder Lamar Hunt used to tell his son, Clark, that his favorite place on the planet was Arrowhead Stadium.

If it's up to the current chairman, the club will be there long into the future.

During his annual trip to training camp, Clark Hunt said Friday that the preference of the Chiefs is to renovate the aging facility east of downtown Kansas City rather than build a new stadium. But that will depend on a number of studies that are examining the structural integrity of a building celebrating its opening 50 years ago this season.

"That would be our No. 1 priority," Hunt said. "We're going to evaluate all options, obviously. We have to figure out what's best for the franchise, what's best for the fan base. But it starts with evaluating Arrowhead and that's where we're at."

The Chiefs have shared the Truman Sports Complex with the Kansas City Royals since the early 1970s, and each of their facilities has gone through extensive renovations financed in part by Jackson County taxpayers. But under the new ownership of John Sherman, the Royals appear to be leaning toward leaving the expanse of concrete parking lots for a downtown site near public transportation and restaurants, shopping and entertainment options.

Their stadium leases last through the 2030-31 seasons, and that means both will need to determine their next step in the next two years. That would give them enough time to secure financing along with formulating plans and construction.

Arrowhead already is due to have minor renovations beginning in 2025 for the World Cup the following year. While some of those figure to be cosmetic upgrades, the majority have to do with seating arrangements in the corners of the stadium, where more space will be needed to fit an international soccer pitch.

In a perfect world, Hunt said, those would be the start of long-term renovations for the third-oldest NFL stadium in use.

"We're very hopeful we'll be able to renovate Arrowhead Stadium when the time comes," he said, "but we're probably still a year-plus from being able to make that determination. What I've learned through the process is it's not a very simple answer when you're trying to determine whether a building can go another 25 or 30 years starting eight years from now."

The future of Arrowhead will be determined just as the Chicago Bears decide whether to leave Soldier Field, which opened in 1924 and is the league's oldest stadium. The franchise signed a purchase agreement last year for the 326-acre site of the old Arlington Park horse racing track, which is about 30 miles northwest of their current stadium, leaving officials in Chicago to explore plans to enclose Soldier Field in a bid to keep the team near the lakefront.

Among the attraction for the Bears, whose lease of Soldier Field runs through 2033, in moving to a new stadium is the ability to own all the revenue it produces, along with potential income from other commercial development.

By contrast, Soldier Field is owned by the Chicago Park District, which limits the financial upside for the franchise.

The only other stadium older than Arrowhead is Lambeau Field, where the Green Bay Packers have played since 1957.

That doesn't appear to be an issue for Hunt, whose family has owned the franchise since Lamar Hunt founded it in 1959 and moved from Dallas to Kansas City in 1963. They cherish the history of Arrowhead along with its setting, which may lack for public transportation but makes up for with vast parking lots for some of the league's best tailgating.

That evidently outweighs whatever revenue that could come with a new stadium on property owned by the Chiefs.

"We're being very methodical (with planning)," Hunt said. "We want to get to the right answer because it's very important."

NOTES: DE Carlos Dunlap, who signed a one-year deal Thursday, will not arrive until next Wednesday because of some personal matters he is wrapping up. "He's been around. He knows what he's looking for," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. "He liked what he saw and we liked what we saw and we signed him up." ... FS Justin Reid participated fully in practice after getting shaken up Thursday. ... The Chiefs practice again Saturday before getting the day off Sunday. Their first padded practice of training camp is scheduled for Monday.

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Chiefs founder Lamar Hunt used to tell his son, Clark, that his favorite place on the planet was Arrowhead Stadium.If it's up to the current chairman, the club will be there long into the future.During his annual trip to training camp, Clark Hunt said Friday that the preference of the Chiefs is to renovate the aging facility east of downtown Kansas City rather than build a new stadium. But that will depend on a number of studies that are examining the structural integrity of a building celebrating its opening 50 years ago this season."That would be our No. 1 priority," Hunt said. "We're going to evaluate all options, obviously. We have to figure out what's best for the franchise, what's best for the fan base. But it starts with evaluating Arrowhead and that's where we're at."The Chiefs have shared the Truman Sports Complex with the Kansas City Royals since the early 1970s, and each of their facilities has gone through extensive renovations financed in part by Jackson County taxpayers. But under the new ownership of John Sherman, the Royals appear to be leaning toward leaving the expanse of concrete parking lots for a downtown site near public transportation and restaurants, shopping and entertainment options.Their stadium leases last through the 2030-31 seasons, and that means both will need to determine their next step in the next two years. That would give them enough time to secure financing along with formulating plans and construction.Arrowhead already is due to have minor renovations beginning in 2025 for the World Cup the following year. While some of those figure to be cosmetic upgrades, the majority have to do with seating arrangements in the corners of the stadium, where more space will be needed to fit an international soccer pitch.In a perfect world, Hunt said, those would be the start of long-term renovations for the third-oldest NFL stadium in use."We're very hopeful we'll be able to renovate Arrowhead Stadium when the time comes," he said, "but we're probably still a year-plus from being able to make that determination. What I've learned through the process is it's not a very simple answer when you're trying to determine whether a building can go another 25 or 30 years starting eight years from now."The future of Arrowhead will be determined just as the Chicago Bears decide whether to leave Soldier Field, which opened in 1924 and is the league's oldest stadium. The franchise signed a purchase agreement last year for the 326-acre site of the old Arlington Park horse racing track, which is about 30 miles northwest of their current stadium, leaving officials in Chicago to explore plans to enclose Soldier Field in a bid to keep the team near the lakefront.Among the attraction for the Bears, whose lease of Soldier Field runs through 2033, in moving to a new stadium is the ability to own all the revenue it produces, along with potential income from other commercial development.By contrast, Soldier Field is owned by the Chicago Park District, which limits the financial upside for the franchise.The only other stadium older than Arrowhead is Lambeau Field, where the Green Bay Packers have played since 1957.That doesn't appear to be an issue for Hunt, whose family has owned the franchise since Lamar Hunt founded it in 1959 and moved from Dallas to Kansas City in 1963. They cherish the history of Arrowhead along with its setting, which may lack for public transportation but makes up for with vast parking lots for some of the league's best tailgating.That evidently outweighs whatever revenue that could come with a new stadium on property owned by the Chiefs."We're being very methodical (with planning)," Hunt said. "We want to get to the right answer because it's very important."NOTES: DE Carlos Dunlap, who signed a one-year deal Thursday, will not arrive until next Wednesday because of some personal matters he is wrapping up. "He's been around. He knows what he's looking for," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. "He liked what he saw and we liked what we saw and we signed him up." ... FS Justin Reid participated fully in practice after getting shaken up Thursday. ... The Chiefs practice again Saturday before getting the day off Sunday. Their first padded practice of training camp is scheduled for Monday.

Chiefs' Hunt prefers Arrowhead renovation over new stadium

COLBY — The Colby Community College volleyball team was recognized for their academic efforts by earning the United States Marine Corps and American Volleyball Coaches Association Team Academic Award. The honor highlights collegiate and high school volleyball teams that maintain at least a 3.3 cumulative grade point average.&nbsp;

The Trojans, who posted a 16-14 record and advanced to the Region VI semifinals, finished the academic year with a 3.79 GPA. It marks the ninth time in 13 years one of Coach Carey Jones's teams earned the Team Academic Award. In addition, the squad was one of seven two-year schools nationally to make the AVCA Team Academic Honor Roll, a distinction reserved for the top 20 percent of team GPAs in NJCAA Division I.

"&nbsp;I couldn't be more proud of Coach Jones and the whole volleyball team," said CCC Athletic Director Mike Saddler. "They narrowly missed being the NJCAA Academic Team of the Year, but adding another academic award is a great honor. Her teams have been great on the floor, but what they have been able to do in the classroom year-in and year-out is amazing."

Additional information on the award is available on the AVCA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.avca.org/awards/team-academic/2022-usmc-avca-team-academic-release.html">website</a>.

The 2022 Trojans are arriving in early August to prepare for their Aug. 19-20 tournament games in Beatrice, Neb. The first home contest is Aug. 24 in a Jayhawk Conference battle with Seward County Community College.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — The Colby Community College volleyball team was recognized for their academic efforts by earning the United States Marine Corps and American Volleyball Coaches Association Team Academic Award. The honor highlights collegiate and high school volleyball teams that maintain at least a 3.3 cumulative grade point average.&nbsp;The Trojans, who posted a 16-14 record and advanced to the Region VI semifinals, finished the academic year with a 3.79 GPA. It marks the ninth time in 13 years one of Coach Carey Jones's teams earned the Team Academic Award. In addition, the squad was one of seven two-year schools nationally to make the AVCA Team Academic Honor Roll, a distinction reserved for the top 20 percent of team GPAs in NJCAA Division I."&nbsp;I couldn't be more proud of Coach Jones and the whole volleyball team," said CCC Athletic Director Mike Saddler. "They narrowly missed being the NJCAA Academic Team of the Year, but adding another academic award is a great honor. Her teams have been great on the floor, but what they have been able to do in the classroom year-in and year-out is amazing."Additional information on the award is available on the AVCA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.avca.org/awards/team-academic/2022-usmc-avca-team-academic-release.html">website</a>.The 2022 Trojans are arriving in early August to prepare for their Aug. 19-20 tournament games in Beatrice, Neb. The first home contest is Aug. 24 in a Jayhawk Conference battle with Seward County Community College.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Colby CC volleyball among academic elite

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Soccer head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=1021">Gerry Cleary</a>&nbsp;announced the addition of 10 more signees for the upcoming 2022 season. This group joins six other newcomers that were announced back in June.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7065">Augustin Ayala</a>&nbsp;/ Forward / Asuncion, Paraguay Augustin is a native of Asuncion, Paraguay and brings his expertise and versatility to forward positions. He brings experience from clubs such as Club Sol de America and Club Recoleta. He went on to play for the Club Recoletas first team in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7066">Jackson Elgas</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Leawood, Kan. (Blue Valley HS) Jackson is a native of Leawood, Kansas and adds strength to the midfield positions. He competed at Blue Valley High School, where he was an all-league selection and served at the team's captain. While playing with Sporting Blue Valley Academy 03, Elgas helped the team to a USYS National Championship in 2022. He also helped the team win the Kansas State Cup and was a member of the 2021 Disney Showcase U19 championship team.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7067">Eduardo Grados</a>&nbsp;/ Forward / Torrance, Calif. (El Camino College) Eduardo is a native of Torrance, California and brings versatility to forward positions. He comes to FHSU from El Camino College where he started 33 of 38 games and contributed 11 goals with 10 assists over two seasons. Some of his achievements include being named to the All-SCC South Division Second Team in both 2018 and 2019 and was invited to the CCCAA Sophomore Showcase in 2019. He was also a Cal South National Club Champion.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7068">Segun Idowu</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Richmond, Texas (George Bush HS) Segun was born in Lagos, Nigeria and is now a native of the Houston, Texas area. He brings his versatility to midfield positions. He has experience from clubs such as Rise Soccer Club in the ECNL and Smith Fit Fitbit Club. At George Bush High School, Segun was a four-year varsity letterman and three-year starter. In his senior year he captained the varsity team and had 17 goals and 2 assists helping the team win its first ever district title. He was named to the all-district first team as a senior and was an honorable mention selection twice before. He was also a three-time academic all-district selection.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7069">Inigo Jimenez</a>&nbsp;/ Defender / Madrid, Spain (Lake Erie College) Inigo is a native of Madrid, Spain and brings his versatility to defensive positions. Inigo is transferring from another highly successful NCAA Division II program, Lake Erie College. Lake Erie had a record of 21-9-1 during his time there and he started every match of the team's run to the NCAA Tournament Round of 16 last year. He helped Lake Erie to the GMAC regular season and tournament titles in 2021. His previous playing experience included stops with Arenas De Getxo and A.D. Union Adarve.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7070">Lucas Petropoulos</a>&nbsp;/ Defender / Athens, Greece Lucas is a native of Athens, Greece and strengthens the team in the defensive positions. He was a three-year starter at Loughborough University which is one of the most competitive university soccer programs in the UK. He competed at the national level for Loughborough in BUCS. Lucas also spent time at non-league side Lordswood FC during his time in England, competing in prestigious competitions such as the FA Cup and FA Vase. Lucas played his youth soccer at Greek Superleague side Panionios FC.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7071">Gustavo Sandoval</a>&nbsp;/ Forward / McAllen, Texas (Sharyland Pioneer HS) Gustavo is a native of McAllen, Texas and brings his versatility to forward positions. He has played with clubs such as Rayados McAllen, Dynamo FC McAllen, RGV FC Dallas 02. He captained the varsity team in high school in both his junior and senior years. Gustavo has several accolades such as competing in the Dallas Cup, President's Cup, and Regional President's Cup. At Sharyland Pioneer High School, he was named All-District Utility Player of the Year as a junior and All-District Offensive Player of the Year as a senior.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7072">Tre Smith</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Kansas City, Mo. (Drake University) Tre is a native of Kansas City, Missouri and brings his experience to the midfield position. He is a transfer from NCAA Division I institution Drake University Tre played at Parkhill High School where he helped the team to a state runner-up finish during his senior year and a district and regional championship during his junior year. He brings experience from several clubs such as Legacy SC, Fusion Academy, and Kansas Rush SC. Tre earned the golden boot in his high school junior year with 9 goals and 5 assists.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7073">Sean Thomson</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Dorset, England (McPherson College) Sean is a native of Dorset, England and brings versatility to midfield positions. He is transferring from McPherson College, where he was an NAIA All-America Honorable Mention and two-time all-conference selection. He has one year of eligibility remaining after four years at McPherson. Sean brings experience from several clubs such as Sussex Elite, where he played in the Gothia World Cup, Brighton FC, and Shaftesbury Town FC.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7074">Tadhg Walsh</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Dublin, Ireland Tadhg is a native of Dublin, Ireland and brings versatility to midfield positions. He played with several clubs such as St. Kevin's Boys, Malahide United FC, and Dundalk FC. Tadhg has many achievements in his young career, helping his teams win the Condron Cup, Tom Kavanagh Cup, and the SFAI National Cup. Tadhg also captained Ireland's U18 team in the Centenary Shield, where they finished 2nd. 2022 Signees announced in June... <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6930">Francisco Azzaro</a>&nbsp;/ Defender / Buenos Aires, Argentina <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6931">Harrison Bensouda</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Shawnee, Kan. (Mill Valley HS) <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6932">Callum Frogson</a>&nbsp;/ Defender / Nottingham, England <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6934">Odhran Lawlor</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder/Defender / Moate, Ireland <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6935">Jae Ho Shin</a>&nbsp;/ Forward / Seoul, South Korea <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6936">David Silva</a>&nbsp;/ Defender / Santa Maria de Feira, Portugal

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659149252657.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Soccer head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=1021">Gerry Cleary</a>&nbsp;announced the addition of 10 more signees for the upcoming 2022 season. This group joins six other newcomers that were announced back in June.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7065">Augustin Ayala</a>&nbsp;/ Forward / Asuncion, Paraguay Augustin is a native of Asuncion, Paraguay and brings his expertise and versatility to forward positions. He brings experience from clubs such as Club Sol de America and Club Recoleta. He went on to play for the Club Recoletas first team in 2020, 2021 and 2022.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7066">Jackson Elgas</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Leawood, Kan. (Blue Valley HS) Jackson is a native of Leawood, Kansas and adds strength to the midfield positions. He competed at Blue Valley High School, where he was an all-league selection and served at the team's captain. While playing with Sporting Blue Valley Academy 03, Elgas helped the team to a USYS National Championship in 2022. He also helped the team win the Kansas State Cup and was a member of the 2021 Disney Showcase U19 championship team.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7067">Eduardo Grados</a>&nbsp;/ Forward / Torrance, Calif. (El Camino College) Eduardo is a native of Torrance, California and brings versatility to forward positions. He comes to FHSU from El Camino College where he started 33 of 38 games and contributed 11 goals with 10 assists over two seasons. Some of his achievements include being named to the All-SCC South Division Second Team in both 2018 and 2019 and was invited to the CCCAA Sophomore Showcase in 2019. He was also a Cal South National Club Champion.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7068">Segun Idowu</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Richmond, Texas (George Bush HS) Segun was born in Lagos, Nigeria and is now a native of the Houston, Texas area. He brings his versatility to midfield positions. He has experience from clubs such as Rise Soccer Club in the ECNL and Smith Fit Fitbit Club. At George Bush High School, Segun was a four-year varsity letterman and three-year starter. In his senior year he captained the varsity team and had 17 goals and 2 assists helping the team win its first ever district title. He was named to the all-district first team as a senior and was an honorable mention selection twice before. He was also a three-time academic all-district selection.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7069">Inigo Jimenez</a>&nbsp;/ Defender / Madrid, Spain (Lake Erie College) Inigo is a native of Madrid, Spain and brings his versatility to defensive positions. Inigo is transferring from another highly successful NCAA Division II program, Lake Erie College. Lake Erie had a record of 21-9-1 during his time there and he started every match of the team's run to the NCAA Tournament Round of 16 last year. He helped Lake Erie to the GMAC regular season and tournament titles in 2021. His previous playing experience included stops with Arenas De Getxo and A.D. Union Adarve.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7070">Lucas Petropoulos</a>&nbsp;/ Defender / Athens, Greece Lucas is a native of Athens, Greece and strengthens the team in the defensive positions. He was a three-year starter at Loughborough University which is one of the most competitive university soccer programs in the UK. He competed at the national level for Loughborough in BUCS. Lucas also spent time at non-league side Lordswood FC during his time in England, competing in prestigious competitions such as the FA Cup and FA Vase. Lucas played his youth soccer at Greek Superleague side Panionios FC.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7071">Gustavo Sandoval</a>&nbsp;/ Forward / McAllen, Texas (Sharyland Pioneer HS) Gustavo is a native of McAllen, Texas and brings his versatility to forward positions. He has played with clubs such as Rayados McAllen, Dynamo FC McAllen, RGV FC Dallas 02. He captained the varsity team in high school in both his junior and senior years. Gustavo has several accolades such as competing in the Dallas Cup, President's Cup, and Regional President's Cup. At Sharyland Pioneer High School, he was named All-District Utility Player of the Year as a junior and All-District Offensive Player of the Year as a senior.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7072">Tre Smith</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Kansas City, Mo. (Drake University) Tre is a native of Kansas City, Missouri and brings his experience to the midfield position. He is a transfer from NCAA Division I institution Drake University Tre played at Parkhill High School where he helped the team to a state runner-up finish during his senior year and a district and regional championship during his junior year. He brings experience from several clubs such as Legacy SC, Fusion Academy, and Kansas Rush SC. Tre earned the golden boot in his high school junior year with 9 goals and 5 assists.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7073">Sean Thomson</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Dorset, England (McPherson College) Sean is a native of Dorset, England and brings versatility to midfield positions. He is transferring from McPherson College, where he was an NAIA All-America Honorable Mention and two-time all-conference selection. He has one year of eligibility remaining after four years at McPherson. Sean brings experience from several clubs such as Sussex Elite, where he played in the Gothia World Cup, Brighton FC, and Shaftesbury Town FC.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7074">Tadhg Walsh</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Dublin, Ireland Tadhg is a native of Dublin, Ireland and brings versatility to midfield positions. He played with several clubs such as St. Kevin's Boys, Malahide United FC, and Dundalk FC. Tadhg has many achievements in his young career, helping his teams win the Condron Cup, Tom Kavanagh Cup, and the SFAI National Cup. Tadhg also captained Ireland's U18 team in the Centenary Shield, where they finished 2nd. 2022 Signees announced in June... <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6930">Francisco Azzaro</a>&nbsp;/ Defender / Buenos Aires, Argentina <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6931">Harrison Bensouda</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder / Shawnee, Kan. (Mill Valley HS) <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6932">Callum Frogson</a>&nbsp;/ Defender / Nottingham, England <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6934">Odhran Lawlor</a>&nbsp;/ Midfielder/Defender / Moate, Ireland <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6935">Jae Ho Shin</a>&nbsp;/ Forward / Seoul, South Korea <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6936">David Silva</a>&nbsp;/ Defender / Santa Maria de Feira, Portugal

⚽ Tiger men sign 10 more for 2022 season

By TOMMY REZAC St. Joseph Post

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — The Chiefs wrapped 
up their second full day of training camp Thursday on a cool and cloudy 
morning that saw rain showers come to an end as soon as players came on 
the field.

Everyone got work done in half pads, except corner 
Rashad Fenton, offensive tackle Lucas Niang and tackle Prince Tega 
Wanogho, who have been on the injured list since camp.

Orlando
 Brown Jr. was the only player not present. Roderick Johnson, who just 
signed with the Chiefs' on a reserve/future in February, has been 
getting first-team reps at left tackle in Brown Jr.'s place.

One player who was on the injured list Tuesday, but got off Wednesday
 is running back Clye Edwards-Helaire, who says he’s felt fine all week.

He even told Andy Reid Wednesday he would practice.

"I
 was like, 'I'm practicing,'" Edwards-Helaire said. "He was like, 'I 
know you're practicing.' And then it was like, 'Alright, okay high five'
 and out the door. That's all it was."

As Thursday’s practice was 
wrapping up, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Chiefs signed 
veteran defensive end Carlos Dunlap to a one-year, eight-million dollar 
deal.

The team confirmed the signing later Thursday afternoon. 
Defensive tackle Chris Jones says he had the chance to get to know 
Dunlap this offseason.

"He's a high character guys," Jones said of
 Dunlap. "I trained with him this offseason in Miami. If we're able to 
add him and the report is true, I accept Carlos with open arms. I think 
he's a veteran guy who's had a lot of experience in this league. To have
 a veteran guy like that in this position group I think would be 
remarkable."

Dunlap played over 10 seasons in Cincinnati and was 
signed by Seattle halfway through 2020. He played in all 17 games for 
the Seahawks last year, recording 8.5 sacks and defending seven passes. 
The Chiefs are looking for depth at defensive end after Melvin Ingram 
signed a deal with the Dolphins in the offseason.

The Chiefs also drafted defensive end George Karlaftis in the first round this year at the No. 30 pick overall.

Karlaftis,
 who's been getting reps with the first-team defense and has been seen 
talking with Frank Clark after practice, has impressed defensive 
coordinator Steve Spagnuolo so far. Keeping in mind, the pads haven't 
gone on yet.

"Every young guy who comes in, even though they may 
have dominated at the college level, there is a little bit of a learning
 curve," Spagnuolo said. "We're going to live with some ups and downs 
with the young guys...but I'm fired up to see what (George) does."

In
 the secondary, the Chiefs seek new leadership in their defensive 
backfield with the departure of Tyrann Mathieu. So far, the young stars 
have shown out there. First-year Chief and safety Justin Reid has 
impressed early, but safety and fourth-year pro Juan Thornhill is taking
 on that leadership role, Spagnuolo says.

"From a communications 
standpoint and running the show, he's kind of taken that upon himself, 
which is Juan should be doing in his fourth year. As Justin gets more 
comfortable with the system, I would expect him to do the same thing."

Rookie
 safety Bryan Cook out of Cincinnati got reps with the first team 
defense Thursday after Justin Reid missed a few series. Reid is healthy 
and will be back on the field. Another rookie, corner Joshua Williams 
from Fayetteville State, has also caught people’s attention early in 
camp.

The Chiefs practice again on Friday morning at 9:15, with the <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6392ec03-da59-4a2d-a2b7-350c2a553fb3?fbclid=IwAR1_GsHul4CRoq5GmoPxw2nG3X050Nz9DNCFvveFa-MQoNxDlw5QAGHMPUM">Red Rally getting underway</a> in St. Joseph's Civic Center Park on Friday afternoon.

With
 no Tyreek Hill, it's hard to know who Patrick Mahomes' top target this 
coming season will be, but Juju Smith-Schuster is making a strong case.

He
 was making more eye-popping catches, especially during the 11-on-11 
session. Marquez Valdes-Scantling also had some nice grabs during 
7-on-7s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659113396672.jpeg" alt="Clyde Edwards-Helaire during warmups Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Clyde Edwards-Helaire during warmups Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZAC St. Joseph PostST. JOSEPH, Mo. — The Chiefs wrapped 
up their second full day of training camp Thursday on a cool and cloudy 
morning that saw rain showers come to an end as soon as players came on 
the field.Everyone got work done in half pads, except corner 
Rashad Fenton, offensive tackle Lucas Niang and tackle Prince Tega 
Wanogho, who have been on the injured list since camp.Orlando
 Brown Jr. was the only player not present. Roderick Johnson, who just 
signed with the Chiefs' on a reserve/future in February, has been 
getting first-team reps at left tackle in Brown Jr.'s place.One player who was on the injured list Tuesday, but got off Wednesday
 is running back Clye Edwards-Helaire, who says he’s felt fine all week.He even told Andy Reid Wednesday he would practice."I
 was like, 'I'm practicing,'" Edwards-Helaire said. "He was like, 'I 
know you're practicing.' And then it was like, 'Alright, okay high five'
 and out the door. That's all it was."As Thursday’s practice was 
wrapping up, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Chiefs signed 
veteran defensive end Carlos Dunlap to a one-year, eight-million dollar 
deal.The team confirmed the signing later Thursday afternoon. 
Defensive tackle Chris Jones says he had the chance to get to know 
Dunlap this offseason."He's a high character guys," Jones said of
 Dunlap. "I trained with him this offseason in Miami. If we're able to 
add him and the report is true, I accept Carlos with open arms. I think 
he's a veteran guy who's had a lot of experience in this league. To have
 a veteran guy like that in this position group I think would be 
remarkable."Dunlap played over 10 seasons in Cincinnati and was 
signed by Seattle halfway through 2020. He played in all 17 games for 
the Seahawks last year, recording 8.5 sacks and defending seven passes. 
The Chiefs are looking for depth at defensive end after Melvin Ingram 
signed a deal with the Dolphins in the offseason.The Chiefs also drafted defensive end George Karlaftis in the first round this year at the No. 30 pick overall.Karlaftis,
 who's been getting reps with the first-team defense and has been seen 
talking with Frank Clark after practice, has impressed defensive 
coordinator Steve Spagnuolo so far. Keeping in mind, the pads haven't 
gone on yet."Every young guy who comes in, even though they may 
have dominated at the college level, there is a little bit of a learning
 curve," Spagnuolo said. "We're going to live with some ups and downs 
with the young guys...but I'm fired up to see what (George) does."In
 the secondary, the Chiefs seek new leadership in their defensive 
backfield with the departure of Tyrann Mathieu. So far, the young stars 
have shown out there. First-year Chief and safety Justin Reid has 
impressed early, but safety and fourth-year pro Juan Thornhill is taking
 on that leadership role, Spagnuolo says."From a communications 
standpoint and running the show, he's kind of taken that upon himself, 
which is Juan should be doing in his fourth year. As Justin gets more 
comfortable with the system, I would expect him to do the same thing."Rookie
 safety Bryan Cook out of Cincinnati got reps with the first team 
defense Thursday after Justin Reid missed a few series. Reid is healthy 
and will be back on the field. Another rookie, corner Joshua Williams 
from Fayetteville State, has also caught people’s attention early in 
camp.The Chiefs practice again on Friday morning at 9:15, with the <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6392ec03-da59-4a2d-a2b7-350c2a553fb3?fbclid=IwAR1_GsHul4CRoq5GmoPxw2nG3X050Nz9DNCFvveFa-MQoNxDlw5QAGHMPUM">Red Rally getting underway</a> in St. Joseph's Civic Center Park on Friday afternoon.Juju at it againWith
 no Tyreek Hill, it's hard to know who Patrick Mahomes' top target this 
coming season will be, but Juju Smith-Schuster is making a strong case.He
 was making more eye-popping catches, especially during the 11-on-11 
session. Marquez Valdes-Scantling also had some nice grabs during 
7-on-7s.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Another day, another incredible catch by JuJu Smith-Schuster (<a href="https://twitter.com/TeamJuJu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TeamJuJu</a>) And another awesome celebration right behind the play from Travis Kelce (<a href="https://twitter.com/tkelce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tkelce</a>) <a href="https://t.co/qfJ62ddtYj">pic.twitter.com/qfJ62ddtYj</a>&mdash; KC Sports Network (@KCSportsNetwork) <a href="https://twitter.com/KCSportsNetwork/status/1552678060519989249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Chiefs in good health through Thursday; Dunlap signs

	The Hays Striders track team have finished their final practices in preparation to send a contingent of qualifiers to the AAU Junior Olympic Games July 29 through Aug. 7 in Greensboro, N.C. Coming off stellar performances at the Regional Qualification meet in Joplin, the Striders are overcoming not only sweltering Kansas heat but also a change in practice venue to be ready for Nationals.

	The change in venue is due to both Hays Middle School and Hays High School tracks undergoing a resurface, seal, and striping this summer.

“We have had to move our practices out to the Fort Hays track and we are very grateful for the support and consideration that Coach Jason McCullough and the Tiger athletic department has given us by allowing us to practice on their track,” Head Coach Dave Haberman said. 

The heat has also changed daily practice times from 6 to 7 p.m. 

“Traditionally, we do change our practice time from 6 to 7 every summer as temperatures rise above 100 degrees and although they need to train in the heat, we are very conscious of heat-related injuries for our kids,” Haberman said.&nbsp;

	Coming out of the National Qualifier in Joplin last month, 16 Striders qualified to make the cross country trip to North Carolina A&amp;T for the Junior Olympics. The team had six Gold medal finishes and those athletes will be presented with the coveted Striders “Regional Champion” shirts. Aliviah Ball, 14, took first place in the high jump and tied the meet record; Riley Leiker, 7, won the 400 meter dash and broke the meet record; Lyndi Zimmerman, 13, won the 200 meter hurdles; Audrina Ortiz, 14, won the 200 meter hurdles, and Emery Zimmerman, 10, won both the 800 and 1500 meter runs.&nbsp;

	“We are proud of all our Strider athletes,” Haberman said, “they are some of the hardest working kids we’ve ever had.” When asked what their favorite workout is, several athletes commented “the Madness Run.”&nbsp;

	“The Madness Run is a special workout I devised to work two events at once – the 400 and 800,” Haberman added. “It’s hands down the best workout we use for those events, and it shows with their performances. New kids, high school and college athletes, and most parents are shocked as to how hard it is, but our returning athletes know the run makes them super competitive. Many events at Joplin had up to 60 athletes competing for those top 6 spots, and our athlete’s finishes, jumps and throws are a testament as to how hard they practice.”

	The Top 6 in individual events and top 4 in the Multi-Events qualified for the Junior Olympics out of Joplin. 

Complete Regional results for the Girls are:&nbsp;

Riley Leiker: 8 Under, 400-1st 1:15.86; 200-9th 35.12; Long Jump-12th 8’6”

Danica Vap: 11, Shot Put-2nd 27’7”; Turbo Javelin-5th, 53’8.75”

Sydney Lewallen: 12, 800-5th, 2:41.50; 400-8th, 1:09.96; Long Jump-7th, 13’7”

Makayla Lewallen: 13, Pentathlon-2nd 2194 points; 1500-5th 5:26.18; 100 hurdles-5th 18.17; 200 hurdles-8th 34.06; 800-14th 2:54.50

Lyndi Zimmerman: 13, 200 hurdles-1st 31.69; Pentathlon-4th 1804 points; 200-16th 28.75; 400-17th 1:10.87; 1500-12th 6:04.12

Aliviah Ball: 14, High Jump-1st 5’4”; 100-23rd 13.85;&nbsp; 200-28th 28.91; 400-22nd 1:07.96

Kaliyah Bannister: 14, Long Jump-20th 13’7”; High Jump-9th 4’4”	

Audrina Ortiz: 14, 100 hurdles-2nd 17.16; 200 hurdles-1st 30.81

Ka’Mara Harvey: 15-16, 100-46 14.63; 200-45th 31.19; 100 hurdles-16th 18.57

Kaelyn Means: 17-18, Shot Put-4th 32’5”; Discus-3rd 114’9”

Complete Regional results for the Boys are:

Finley Zimmerman: 8 Under, 400-43rd 1:42.46; 800-14th 3:30.42; 1500-9th 7:19.51

Tayte Lewallen: 10, Triathlon-4th 462 points; 800-3rd 2:45.46; 1500-3rd 5:35.98; Long Jump-11th 10’6”

Emery Zimmerman: Triathlon-5th 447 points; 400-11th 1:11.39; 800-1st 2:40.72; 1500-1st 5:27.65

Jacob Leiker: 11, Shot Put-2nd 30’7”; 400-13th 1:09.54; 800-7th 2:41.28

Kobe Schmidt: 11, 400-5th 1:05.95; 200-11th 29.78; 100-15th 14.76

Bladyn Werth: 12, 1500-14th 5:51.24; 3000-8th 13:24.85

Austin Bland: 13, Javelin-2nd 99’2”; 400-11th 1:00.30; 1500-8th 5:20.75

Logan Leiker: 13, 3000-2nd 11:33.49; 1500-3rd 5:05.85; 800-10th 2:32.99

Caleb Englert: 14, Shot Put-3rd 37’10”; Discus-8th 111’7.50”

Brayden Staley-Herman: 14, Long Jump-15th 12’2”

Oscar Busch: 15-16, Long Jump-20th 17’1”; 100-42nd 13.19

Grayson Walburn: 17-18, Discus-3rd&nbsp; 152’3”; Shot Put-6th 42’11”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659026438474.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted	The Hays Striders track team have finished their final practices in preparation to send a contingent of qualifiers to the AAU Junior Olympic Games July 29 through Aug. 7 in Greensboro, N.C. Coming off stellar performances at the Regional Qualification meet in Joplin, the Striders are overcoming not only sweltering Kansas heat but also a change in practice venue to be ready for Nationals.	The change in venue is due to both Hays Middle School and Hays High School tracks undergoing a resurface, seal, and striping this summer.“We have had to move our practices out to the Fort Hays track and we are very grateful for the support and consideration that Coach Jason McCullough and the Tiger athletic department has given us by allowing us to practice on their track,” Head Coach Dave Haberman said. The heat has also changed daily practice times from 6 to 7 p.m. “Traditionally, we do change our practice time from 6 to 7 every summer as temperatures rise above 100 degrees and although they need to train in the heat, we are very conscious of heat-related injuries for our kids,” Haberman said.&nbsp;	Coming out of the National Qualifier in Joplin last month, 16 Striders qualified to make the cross country trip to North Carolina A&amp;T for the Junior Olympics. The team had six Gold medal finishes and those athletes will be presented with the coveted Striders “Regional Champion” shirts. Aliviah Ball, 14, took first place in the high jump and tied the meet record; Riley Leiker, 7, won the 400 meter dash and broke the meet record; Lyndi Zimmerman, 13, won the 200 meter hurdles; Audrina Ortiz, 14, won the 200 meter hurdles, and Emery Zimmerman, 10, won both the 800 and 1500 meter runs.&nbsp;	“We are proud of all our Strider athletes,” Haberman said, “they are some of the hardest working kids we’ve ever had.” When asked what their favorite workout is, several athletes commented “the Madness Run.”&nbsp;	“The Madness Run is a special workout I devised to work two events at once – the 400 and 800,” Haberman added. “It’s hands down the best workout we use for those events, and it shows with their performances. New kids, high school and college athletes, and most parents are shocked as to how hard it is, but our returning athletes know the run makes them super competitive. Many events at Joplin had up to 60 athletes competing for those top 6 spots, and our athlete’s finishes, jumps and throws are a testament as to how hard they practice.”	The Top 6 in individual events and top 4 in the Multi-Events qualified for the Junior Olympics out of Joplin. Complete Regional results for the Girls are:&nbsp;Riley Leiker: 8 Under, 400-1st 1:15.86; 200-9th 35.12; Long Jump-12th 8’6”Danica Vap: 11, Shot Put-2nd 27’7”; Turbo Javelin-5th, 53’8.75”Sydney Lewallen: 12, 800-5th, 2:41.50; 400-8th, 1:09.96; Long Jump-7th, 13’7”Makayla Lewallen: 13, Pentathlon-2nd 2194 points; 1500-5th 5:26.18; 100 hurdles-5th 18.17; 200 hurdles-8th 34.06; 800-14th 2:54.50Lyndi Zimmerman: 13, 200 hurdles-1st 31.69; Pentathlon-4th 1804 points; 200-16th 28.75; 400-17th 1:10.87; 1500-12th 6:04.12Aliviah Ball: 14, High Jump-1st 5’4”; 100-23rd 13.85;&nbsp; 200-28th 28.91; 400-22nd 1:07.96Kaliyah Bannister: 14, Long Jump-20th 13’7”; High Jump-9th 4’4”	Audrina Ortiz: 14, 100 hurdles-2nd 17.16; 200 hurdles-1st 30.81Ka’Mara Harvey: 15-16, 100-46 14.63; 200-45th 31.19; 100 hurdles-16th 18.57Kaelyn Means: 17-18, Shot Put-4th 32’5”; Discus-3rd 114’9”Complete Regional results for the Boys are:Finley Zimmerman: 8 Under, 400-43rd 1:42.46; 800-14th 3:30.42; 1500-9th 7:19.51Tayte Lewallen: 10, Triathlon-4th 462 points; 800-3rd 2:45.46; 1500-3rd 5:35.98; Long Jump-11th 10’6”Emery Zimmerman: Triathlon-5th 447 points; 400-11th 1:11.39; 800-1st 2:40.72; 1500-1st 5:27.65Jacob Leiker: 11, Shot Put-2nd 30’7”; 400-13th 1:09.54; 800-7th 2:41.28Kobe Schmidt: 11, 400-5th 1:05.95; 200-11th 29.78; 100-15th 14.76Bladyn Werth: 12, 1500-14th 5:51.24; 3000-8th 13:24.85Austin Bland: 13, Javelin-2nd 99’2”; 400-11th 1:00.30; 1500-8th 5:20.75Logan Leiker: 13, 3000-2nd 11:33.49; 1500-3rd 5:05.85; 800-10th 2:32.99Caleb Englert: 14, Shot Put-3rd 37’10”; Discus-8th 111’7.50”Brayden Staley-Herman: 14, Long Jump-15th 12’2”Oscar Busch: 15-16, Long Jump-20th 17’1”; 100-42nd 13.19Grayson Walburn: 17-18, Discus-3rd&nbsp; 152’3”; Shot Put-6th 42’11”

👟 Hays Striders ready for Junior Olympics

NEW YORK (AP) — Aaron Judge is turning walk-off home runs into a routine.

Judge hit his major league-leading 39th home run for his third walk-off long ball this season, lifting the New York Yankees over the Kansas City Royals 1-0 Thursday night.

New York was held to one hit before Judge drove a first-pitch fastball from Scott Barlow (4-3) into the Kansas City bullpen with one out in the ninth, a 431-foot drive.

“I just try not to think too much in those situations,” Judge said.

Judge sent the crowd of 43,836 into a frenzy, joining Mickey Mantle as the only Yankees with three walk-off home runs in one season. Tommy Henrich had two in 1949 plus another off Brooklyn’s Don Newcombe in the World Series opener.

“I just got done watching the video and it just leaked right back middle,” Barlow said. “It’s what he hits really well.”

Judge had never hit a big league walk-off homer before May 10 against Toronto’s Jordan Romano, then hit another on June 26 off Houston’s Seth Martinez. He became the first Yankee with four walk-off hits of any kind in one season since Claudell Washington in 1988.

“It doesn’t cease to amaze the season he’s putting together. Barlow’s obviously really tough,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. “Just gets a pitch and to put it up in the air where he did is just, not many people can hit it like that and ride it out like he did.”

Judge also stole his 10th base, a career high.

The Yankees had not won a 1-0 game on a walk-off homer since Ruben Sierra connected off the Blue Jays’ Vinnie Chulk on April 22, 2004.

New York’s 12 walk-off wins are tied for second-most through a team's first 100 games, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, one fewer than the 1959 Pittsburgh Pirates.

Andrew Benintendi went 0 for 4 with one strikeout in his Yankees debut, facing Kansas City one day after the Royals dealt him to New York for three minor league pitchers.

“Definitely looking forward to getting some rest tonight but it’s been crazy,” Benintendi said. “Meeting a lot of people, running all over the place but I’m glad to be here and I wouldn’t change it.”

Clay Holmes (5-1) worked around two walks in a hitless ninth, combining on a four-hitter with Jameson Taillon and Ron Marinaccio.

New York has an AL-best 67-33 record but had lost 10 of its previous 15 games, getting swept this week in a two-game Subway Series at the NL East-leading Mets and losing both games of a doubleheader last week at AL West-leading Houston. The Yankees won with two hits for the second time, following a 5-1 victory at the Chicago White Sox on May 15.

Taillon struck out a season-high eight and allowed four hits in six innings. Rookie Ron Marinaccio got six outs with two hitless innings and has not allowed a run in 19 innings. Batters are 1 for 57 against him in that span.

“Confidence has been growing so I’ve been a little more convicted with some of the decisions I’m making and the pitches I’m throwing,” Marinaccio said.

Brady Singer struck out 10 and allowed one hit in seven innings, a two-out single in the fourth by Gleyber Torres. Kansas City, last in the AL Central, dropped to 39-60.

“Brady responded as good as you could ever ask any pitcher against an offense like this,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “This is the best we’ve seen him.”

Yankees outfielder Joey Gallo heard loud boos, striking out three times for the 12th game this season. Gallo, hitting .159, also fanned four times in a pair of games.

With a 2-2 count in the sixth inning, Judge looked at ball three. MJ Melendez apparently thought the pitch was a strike, emphatically firing the ball down to third base. Judge remained in the box while plate umpire Ramon De Jesus informed the rookie catcher he was mistaken, but Singer fanned Judge swinging on the next pitch.

The Yankees paid tribute to the late Buck O’Neil prior to the game. Public address announcer Paul Olden read the Kansas City legend’s many accomplishments followed by a touching tribute video shown on the center field scoreboard. A two-time All-Star first baseman in the Negro Leagues and the first Black coach in the National or American leagues, O’Neil played a key role in Kansas City Monarchs championships as both a player and manager. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame on Sunday.

Royals: Recalled SS Maikel Garcia from Double-A Northwest Arkansas.

Yankees: Optioned OF Tim Locastro to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

Royals: SS Bobby Witt Jr. (hamstring) took batting practice and fielded ground balls. He has missed four straight games. … C Salvador Perez (left thumb) continued his rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha, going 0 for 1 with a walk as the designated hitter. “He’s getting close,” Matheny said.

Yankees: RHP Luis Severino (strained right lat) could start throwing soon. A decision on whether or not he’s ready to do so is expected either Thursday or Friday, according to Boone. … INF DJ LeMahieu was given a day off.

Royals: LHP Kris Bubic (2-6, 5.53 ERA) has allowed just two earned runs in 14 innings over his past two starts.

Yankees: RHP Gerrit Cole (9-3, 3.09 ERA) makes his seventh start against Kansas City. The five-time All-Star has a 2.04 ERA over 39 2/3 innings in their previous encounters.

NEW YORK (AP) — Aaron Judge is turning walk-off home runs into a routine.Judge hit his major league-leading 39th home run for his third walk-off long ball this season, lifting the New York Yankees over the Kansas City Royals 1-0 Thursday night.New York was held to one hit before Judge drove a first-pitch fastball from Scott Barlow (4-3) into the Kansas City bullpen with one out in the ninth, a 431-foot drive.“I just try not to think too much in those situations,” Judge said.Judge sent the crowd of 43,836 into a frenzy, joining Mickey Mantle as the only Yankees with three walk-off home runs in one season. Tommy Henrich had two in 1949 plus another off Brooklyn’s Don Newcombe in the World Series opener.“I just got done watching the video and it just leaked right back middle,” Barlow said. “It’s what he hits really well.”Judge had never hit a big league walk-off homer before May 10 against Toronto’s Jordan Romano, then hit another on June 26 off Houston’s Seth Martinez. He became the first Yankee with four walk-off hits of any kind in one season since Claudell Washington in 1988.“It doesn’t cease to amaze the season he’s putting together. Barlow’s obviously really tough,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. “Just gets a pitch and to put it up in the air where he did is just, not many people can hit it like that and ride it out like he did.”Judge also stole his 10th base, a career high.The Yankees had not won a 1-0 game on a walk-off homer since Ruben Sierra connected off the Blue Jays’ Vinnie Chulk on April 22, 2004.New York’s 12 walk-off wins are tied for second-most through a team's first 100 games, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, one fewer than the 1959 Pittsburgh Pirates.Andrew Benintendi went 0 for 4 with one strikeout in his Yankees debut, facing Kansas City one day after the Royals dealt him to New York for three minor league pitchers.“Definitely looking forward to getting some rest tonight but it’s been crazy,” Benintendi said. “Meeting a lot of people, running all over the place but I’m glad to be here and I wouldn’t change it.”Clay Holmes (5-1) worked around two walks in a hitless ninth, combining on a four-hitter with Jameson Taillon and Ron Marinaccio.New York has an AL-best 67-33 record but had lost 10 of its previous 15 games, getting swept this week in a two-game Subway Series at the NL East-leading Mets and losing both games of a doubleheader last week at AL West-leading Houston. The Yankees won with two hits for the second time, following a 5-1 victory at the Chicago White Sox on May 15.Taillon struck out a season-high eight and allowed four hits in six innings. Rookie Ron Marinaccio got six outs with two hitless innings and has not allowed a run in 19 innings. Batters are 1 for 57 against him in that span.“Confidence has been growing so I’ve been a little more convicted with some of the decisions I’m making and the pitches I’m throwing,” Marinaccio said.Brady Singer struck out 10 and allowed one hit in seven innings, a two-out single in the fourth by Gleyber Torres. Kansas City, last in the AL Central, dropped to 39-60.“Brady responded as good as you could ever ask any pitcher against an offense like this,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “This is the best we’ve seen him.”Yankees outfielder Joey Gallo heard loud boos, striking out three times for the 12th game this season. Gallo, hitting .159, also fanned four times in a pair of games.NOT SO FASTWith a 2-2 count in the sixth inning, Judge looked at ball three. MJ Melendez apparently thought the pitch was a strike, emphatically firing the ball down to third base. Judge remained in the box while plate umpire Ramon De Jesus informed the rookie catcher he was mistaken, but Singer fanned Judge swinging on the next pitch.CHEERS FOR BUCKThe Yankees paid tribute to the late Buck O’Neil prior to the game. Public address announcer Paul Olden read the Kansas City legend’s many accomplishments followed by a touching tribute video shown on the center field scoreboard. A two-time All-Star first baseman in the Negro Leagues and the first Black coach in the National or American leagues, O’Neil played a key role in Kansas City Monarchs championships as both a player and manager. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame on Sunday.MOVESRoyals: Recalled SS Maikel Garcia from Double-A Northwest Arkansas.Yankees: Optioned OF Tim Locastro to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: SS Bobby Witt Jr. (hamstring) took batting practice and fielded ground balls. He has missed four straight games. … C Salvador Perez (left thumb) continued his rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha, going 0 for 1 with a walk as the designated hitter. “He’s getting close,” Matheny said.Yankees: RHP Luis Severino (strained right lat) could start throwing soon. A decision on whether or not he’s ready to do so is expected either Thursday or Friday, according to Boone. … INF DJ LeMahieu was given a day off.UP NEXTRoyals: LHP Kris Bubic (2-6, 5.53 ERA) has allowed just two earned runs in 14 innings over his past two starts.Yankees: RHP Gerrit Cole (9-3, 3.09 ERA) makes his seventh start against Kansas City. The five-time All-Star has a 2.04 ERA over 39 2/3 innings in their previous encounters.

⚾ Judge homer lifts Yankees over Royals

HUTCHINSON - The Hays Larks got a solid start from Brady Rose and some timely hitting and beat the Austin (TX) Shockers 8-0 in the NBC World Series opener Thursday afternoon at Hobart-Detter Field.

Rose (2-0) allowed only one hit over five innings and picked up the win. The Dallas Baptist product matched a season-high with eight strikeouts and three walks.

Preston Tabor pitched three scoreless innings and Wyatt Divis got the final three outs to close out the win. Tabor scattered five hits and worked out of a bases-loaded one-out jam in the bottom of the eighth with a strikeout and line-out.

After being shutout through the first four innings, the Larks got all of the scoring they needed with a four-run fifth After Leo Jiminian opened the key inning with a walk and Brady Evans reached on a bunt single. Both scored on Austen Jaslove's double off the left field wall. Palmer Hutchison drove in the third run with a double down the left field line. Ben McLaughlin drove in the final run with a single to right.&nbsp;

Ben McLaughlin, who was originally slated to play for the Larks this summer but opted to sit out when he felt discomfort in an elbow that he had Tommy John surgery the year before, added a three-run homer in the top of the ninth to blow the game open.

Hunter Rosson and McLaughlin, who was a second-team All-American at Hutchinson Community College this spring, both had three of the Larks 11 hits.

The Larks continue pool play Saturday against either the Seattle (WA) Studs of the Lonestar (TX) Kraken at yet to be determined time.

HUTCHINSON - The Hays Larks got a solid start from Brady Rose and some timely hitting and beat the Austin (TX) Shockers 8-0 in the NBC World Series opener Thursday afternoon at Hobart-Detter Field.Rose (2-0) allowed only one hit over five innings and picked up the win. The Dallas Baptist product matched a season-high with eight strikeouts and three walks.Preston Tabor pitched three scoreless innings and Wyatt Divis got the final three outs to close out the win. Tabor scattered five hits and worked out of a bases-loaded one-out jam in the bottom of the eighth with a strikeout and line-out.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1313745784&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/07-28-22-larks-interview" title="Frank Leo Postgame Interview vs. Austin (TX) Shockers (Jul 28, 2022)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Frank Leo Postgame Interview vs. Austin (TX) Shockers (Jul 28, 2022)</a></div></div>After being shutout through the first four innings, the Larks got all of the scoring they needed with a four-run fifth After Leo Jiminian opened the key inning with a walk and Brady Evans reached on a bunt single. Both scored on Austen Jaslove's double off the left field wall. Palmer Hutchison drove in the third run with a double down the left field line. Ben McLaughlin drove in the final run with a single to right.&nbsp;Ben McLaughlin, who was originally slated to play for the Larks this summer but opted to sit out when he felt discomfort in an elbow that he had Tommy John surgery the year before, added a three-run homer in the top of the ninth to blow the game open.Hunter Rosson and McLaughlin, who was a second-team All-American at Hutchinson Community College this spring, both had three of the Larks 11 hits.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1313745838&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/07-28-22-hays-larks-v-austin-shockers-hilights" title="Hays Larks vs. Austin (TX) Shockers Highlights (Jul 28, 2022)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays Larks vs. Austin (TX) Shockers Highlights (Jul 28, 2022)</a></div></div>The Larks continue pool play Saturday against either the Seattle (WA) Studs of the Lonestar (TX) Kraken at yet to be determined time.

⚾ Larks win NBC World Series opener

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs signed defensive end Carlos Dunlap to a one-year deal worth up to $8 million on Thursday, giving them an experienced pass rusher opposite Frank Clark and first-round pick George Karlaftis another veteran presence.

The 33-year-old Dunlap was released in March by the Seahawks, who acquired him in a trade with Cincinnati in 2020 and had signed him to a two-year deal. Dunlap rotated with other defensive ends in Seattle, much like he’s expected to do with the Chiefs, and had 8 1/2 sacks along with eight tackles for loss while playing 38% of snaps last season.

“I don’t know if there’s pen to paper. I know I talked to that particular player yesterday,” Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said after the second full-squad workout of training camp at Missouri Western State University.

“It was a good chat,” Spagnuolo said. “I’m always happy to add big, long guys with experience in the league.”

Dunlap was a second-round pick of the Bengals in 2010, making back-to-back Pro Bowl trips in 2015 and ’16, and is among the NFL’s active leaders with 96 career sacks. He also has 117 tackles for loss across 13 seasons in the league.

“I trained with him this summer in Miami. We’ll accept him with open arms,” said Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, who has been their best at pressuring the quarterback in recent years. “I always told him I would love to play with him.”

The Chiefs managed just 31 sacks last season, better only than Detroit, Philadelphia and Atlanta, and their inability to put pressure on Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was a factor in a second-half collapse in the AFC championship game.

Painfully aware of the situation, the Chiefs reworked Clark’s contract in the offseason rather than letting him go, even though he managed just 4 1/2 sacks last season. They also spent the second of their two first-round picks on Karlaftis, an edge rusher out of Purdue whom the Chiefs hope can develop into a long-term solution.

Now, they hope Dunlap can fill a role similar to what Melvin Ingram did for Kansas City last season. That veteran was acquired midway through the year from Pittsburgh, when the Chiefs were trying to bolster their pass rush for the playoffs. And while he had just one sack in nine regular-season games with them, Ingram had two more during the postseason.

The Chiefs hoped to bring back Ingram this season but he ultimately signed with Miami in free agency.

They found a capable substitute in Dunlap during the first week of camp.

“I’ve always told him, ‘I’d love to play with you, you know what I mean?’” Jones said. “Guys like Carlos Dunlap, Justin Houston — guys who set the standard when I was in the league. You know, I watched some of their film when I first came into the league, so it’s always a pleasure to be around that type of high-character guy.”

Notes: The Chiefs created roster space for Dunlap by waiving former Baylor F Mark Vital, who has been trying to make it in the NFL at tight end. ... FS Justin Reid spent time stretching at the medical tent during practice but later returned to the field. ... Rookie SS Bryan Cook got work with the first-team defense during 7-on-7 drills. ... Roderick Johnson remained with the starting group while Pro Bowl LT Orlando Brown Jr. continues his holdout.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs signed defensive end Carlos Dunlap to a one-year deal worth up to $8 million on Thursday, giving them an experienced pass rusher opposite Frank Clark and first-round pick George Karlaftis another veteran presence.The 33-year-old Dunlap was released in March by the Seahawks, who acquired him in a trade with Cincinnati in 2020 and had signed him to a two-year deal. Dunlap rotated with other defensive ends in Seattle, much like he’s expected to do with the Chiefs, and had 8 1/2 sacks along with eight tackles for loss while playing 38% of snaps last season.“I don’t know if there’s pen to paper. I know I talked to that particular player yesterday,” Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said after the second full-squad workout of training camp at Missouri Western State University.“It was a good chat,” Spagnuolo said. “I’m always happy to add big, long guys with experience in the league.”Dunlap was a second-round pick of the Bengals in 2010, making back-to-back Pro Bowl trips in 2015 and ’16, and is among the NFL’s active leaders with 96 career sacks. He also has 117 tackles for loss across 13 seasons in the league.“I trained with him this summer in Miami. We’ll accept him with open arms,” said Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, who has been their best at pressuring the quarterback in recent years. “I always told him I would love to play with him.”The Chiefs managed just 31 sacks last season, better only than Detroit, Philadelphia and Atlanta, and their inability to put pressure on Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was a factor in a second-half collapse in the AFC championship game.Painfully aware of the situation, the Chiefs reworked Clark’s contract in the offseason rather than letting him go, even though he managed just 4 1/2 sacks last season. They also spent the second of their two first-round picks on Karlaftis, an edge rusher out of Purdue whom the Chiefs hope can develop into a long-term solution.Now, they hope Dunlap can fill a role similar to what Melvin Ingram did for Kansas City last season. That veteran was acquired midway through the year from Pittsburgh, when the Chiefs were trying to bolster their pass rush for the playoffs. And while he had just one sack in nine regular-season games with them, Ingram had two more during the postseason.The Chiefs hoped to bring back Ingram this season but he ultimately signed with Miami in free agency.They found a capable substitute in Dunlap during the first week of camp.“I’ve always told him, ‘I’d love to play with you, you know what I mean?’” Jones said. “Guys like Carlos Dunlap, Justin Houston — guys who set the standard when I was in the league. You know, I watched some of their film when I first came into the league, so it’s always a pleasure to be around that type of high-character guy.”Notes: The Chiefs created roster space for Dunlap by waiving former Baylor F Mark Vital, who has been trying to make it in the NFL at tight end. ... FS Justin Reid spent time stretching at the medical tent during practice but later returned to the field. ... Rookie SS Bryan Cook got work with the first-team defense during 7-on-7 drills. ... Roderick Johnson remained with the starting group while Pro Bowl LT Orlando Brown Jr. continues his holdout.

🏈 Chiefs sign veteran DE Carlos Dunlap to 1-year contract

The Hays Larks open NBC World Series play Thursday at 3:00 p.m. against the Austin (TX) Shockers.&nbsp;

You can listen to the game on KFIX (96.9 FM) or click on the link below.

<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">Click here to listen</a>

The Hays Larks open NBC World Series play Thursday at 3:00 p.m. against the Austin (TX) Shockers.&nbsp;You can listen to the game on KFIX (96.9 FM) or click on the link below.<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">Click here to listen</a>

🎧 LISTEN - Hays Larks vs. Austin Shockers at NBC World Series

HAYS – Austen Jaslove provided the heroics Wednesday night as
the Hays Larks closed out their regular season with a thrilling come-from behind
5-4 win over the Gameday Angels. Jaslove’s two-out single to left scored Jack
Torosian with the winning run in a 5-4 victory over the Gameday Angels at Larks
Park.

Torosian reached on a fielder’s choice then moved to third on
Jackson Halter’s two-out single to right.

The Larks (34-8) took advantage of two hit batters, two walks
and an error and scored four runs in the sixth inning to take a 4-3 lead after
they had fallen behind 3-0.

Caden Hare (2-1) pitched three scoreless innings of relief
and picked up the win. 

Halter had three hits and Jaslove drove in two runs.

The Larks begin pool play at the NBC World Series Thursday
afternoon against the Austin (TX) Shockers. Game time is scheduled for 3:00
p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field. The Larks will continue pool play against either
the Seattle (WA) Studs or the Lonestar (TX) Kraken on Saturday and again on
Monday.

The top two teams from each of the four pools advance to
Wednesday’s quarterfinals at Eck Stadium in Wichita.

HAYS – Austen Jaslove provided the heroics Wednesday night as
the Hays Larks closed out their regular season with a thrilling come-from behind
5-4 win over the Gameday Angels. Jaslove’s two-out single to left scored Jack
Torosian with the winning run in a 5-4 victory over the Gameday Angels at Larks
Park.Torosian reached on a fielder’s choice then moved to third on
Jackson Halter’s two-out single to right.The Larks (34-8) took advantage of two hit batters, two walks
and an error and scored four runs in the sixth inning to take a 4-3 lead after
they had fallen behind 3-0.Caden Hare (2-1) pitched three scoreless innings of relief
and picked up the win. Halter had three hits and Jaslove drove in two runs.NBC BOUNDThe Larks begin pool play at the NBC World Series Thursday
afternoon against the Austin (TX) Shockers. Game time is scheduled for 3:00
p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field. The Larks will continue pool play against either
the Seattle (WA) Studs or the Lonestar (TX) Kraken on Saturday and again on
Monday.The top two teams from each of the four pools advance to
Wednesday’s quarterfinals at Eck Stadium in Wichita.

⚾ Larks close out regular season with walk-off win

KANSAS
CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals
announced tonight that they have traded All-Star and reigning Rawlings Gold
Glove outfielder Andrew
Benintendi to the New York
Yankees for right-handed pitchers Chandler
Champlain and Beck Way and left-handed pitcher T.J.
Sikkema.

“Andrew
Benintendi is a true professional and a great example of how a winning player
prepares and competes,” Royals President of Baseball Operations Dayton Moore said. “It was an absolute joy for all of us with the Royals to
have him with our organization and in our city.”

The
Royals now have 39 players on the Major League Reserve List and 25 on the
active Major League roster and will announce a corresponding move tomorrow. Way
and Sikkema will be assigned to High-A Quad Cities, and Champlain will be
assigned to Low-A Columbia. 

Champlain,
who turned 23 last Saturday, owns a 4.30 ERA (35 ER in 73.1 IP) with 94
strikeouts (11.5 K/9) and just 19 walks (2.3 BB/9) in 16 appearances (15
starts) with Low-A Tampa this season. In his July 17 start vs. Daytona, he
recorded a career-best 11 strikeouts with no walks in 6.0 innings. He was
selected in the ninth round of the 2021 First-Year Player Draft out of USC. 

Way,
22, is 5-5 with a 3.73 ERA (30 ER in 72.1 IP) and 80 strikeouts (10.0 K/9) in
15 starts with High-A Hudson Valley this season. He leads the South Atlantic
League with a .212 opponents’ average (55-for-259), ranks 3rd in
WHIP (1.12) and is tied for 3rd in ERA. In his most recent start
last Saturday at Wilmington, he recorded 6.0 no-hit innings en route to a 3-0
win. He was selected by the Yankees in the fourth round of the 2020 First-Year
Player Draft out of Northwest Florida State College.

Sikkema
(sick-KEHM-uh), who turned 24 on Monday, owns a 2.48 ERA (10 ER in 36.1 IP)
with 54 strikeouts (13.4 K/9) and 9 walks (2.2 BB/9) in 10 starts (11
appearances) with High-A Hudson Valley this season. He has struck out 21
batters over 10.1 innings in his last 2 starts, a stretch in which he’s allowed
just 2 earned runs on 3 hits and 2 walks, including 11 strikeouts in 5.0
innings on July 10 at Jersey Shore, and 10 strikeouts in 5.1 innings in his
most recent start on July 16 vs. Greenville. The left hander was selected by
the Yankees in Competitive Balance Round A (38th overall) in the
2019 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Missouri.

Benintendi,
28, represented the Royals in the All-Star Game earlier this month, and is
batting .320 (111-for-347) in 93 games this season, which ranks 5th in
the Majors. He’s currently riding an eight-game hit streak, in which he’s
batting .382 (13-for-34) and is batting .377 (40-for-106) in his last 29 games
since June 20, a stretch in which he has more walks (15) than strikeouts (12).

Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS
CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals
announced tonight that they have traded All-Star and reigning Rawlings Gold
Glove outfielder Andrew
Benintendi to the New York
Yankees for right-handed pitchers Chandler
Champlain and Beck Way and left-handed pitcher T.J.
Sikkema.“Andrew
Benintendi is a true professional and a great example of how a winning player
prepares and competes,” Royals President of Baseball Operations Dayton Moore said. “It was an absolute joy for all of us with the Royals to
have him with our organization and in our city.”The
Royals now have 39 players on the Major League Reserve List and 25 on the
active Major League roster and will announce a corresponding move tomorrow. Way
and Sikkema will be assigned to High-A Quad Cities, and Champlain will be
assigned to Low-A Columbia. Champlain,
who turned 23 last Saturday, owns a 4.30 ERA (35 ER in 73.1 IP) with 94
strikeouts (11.5 K/9) and just 19 walks (2.3 BB/9) in 16 appearances (15
starts) with Low-A Tampa this season. In his July 17 start vs. Daytona, he
recorded a career-best 11 strikeouts with no walks in 6.0 innings. He was
selected in the ninth round of the 2021 First-Year Player Draft out of USC. Way,
22, is 5-5 with a 3.73 ERA (30 ER in 72.1 IP) and 80 strikeouts (10.0 K/9) in
15 starts with High-A Hudson Valley this season. He leads the South Atlantic
League with a .212 opponents’ average (55-for-259), ranks 3rd in
WHIP (1.12) and is tied for 3rd in ERA. In his most recent start
last Saturday at Wilmington, he recorded 6.0 no-hit innings en route to a 3-0
win. He was selected by the Yankees in the fourth round of the 2020 First-Year
Player Draft out of Northwest Florida State College.Sikkema
(sick-KEHM-uh), who turned 24 on Monday, owns a 2.48 ERA (10 ER in 36.1 IP)
with 54 strikeouts (13.4 K/9) and 9 walks (2.2 BB/9) in 10 starts (11
appearances) with High-A Hudson Valley this season. He has struck out 21
batters over 10.1 innings in his last 2 starts, a stretch in which he’s allowed
just 2 earned runs on 3 hits and 2 walks, including 11 strikeouts in 5.0
innings on July 10 at Jersey Shore, and 10 strikeouts in 5.1 innings in his
most recent start on July 16 vs. Greenville. The left hander was selected by
the Yankees in Competitive Balance Round A (38th overall) in the
2019 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Missouri.Benintendi,
28, represented the Royals in the All-Star Game earlier this month, and is
batting .320 (111-for-347) in 93 games this season, which ranks 5th in
the Majors. He’s currently riding an eight-game hit streak, in which he’s
batting .382 (13-for-34) and is batting .377 (40-for-106) in his last 29 games
since June 20, a stretch in which he has more walks (15) than strikeouts (12).

⚾ Royals acquire three pitchers from Yankees for Andrew Benintendi

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Janson Junk didn't get a chance to pitch when the Los Angeles Angels recalled him from Triple-A Salt Lake last month.

He made the most of his time on the mound Wednesday.

Junk dazzled the Angels with five-plus innings of four-hit ball, mixing up a fastball with a two-seam slider, and earned his first major league win when the Los Angeles bullpen shut out the Kansas City Royals the rest of the way in a 4-0 victory.

“After the last time I came up, I got activated but I wasn't able to throw,” said Junk (1-0), who did make a relief appearance in May after four starts last season. “It left a bitter taste in my mouth. I made it my mission to get back here.”

He might get another shot, too, considering how he set down the Kansas City lineup. The 26-year-old allowed four hits and a walk while striking out eight before turning over a 2-0 lead to his bullpen, which did not allow a run for the second consecutive day.

“He was pounding the strike zone. He knows what's effective for him,” interim Angels manager Phil Nevin said. “A lot of good fastballs, pitched ahead and just really pitched well.”

Shohei Ohtani reached base three times and drove in a run, pacing a scuffling Angels offense that managed to capitalize on the Royals' shoddy fielding and get their first series win since June 27-29 against the White Sox.

“We put some pressure on them,” Nevin said, “and then we were able to add a couple of runs.”

Brad Keller (5-11) allowed three runs on six hits and three walks in six innings for Kansas City.

“It was a really good outing,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “He gave us a chance to win and that's all we can ask.”

Keller retired the first nine batters he faced and didn't allow a hit until the fifth, when Kurt Suzuki led off with a double to left field that Andrew Benintendi didn't field cleanly enough to hold Suzuki to one bag.

One out later, Phil Gosselin drove a pitch to right that MJ Melendez — a catcher by trade making his eighth career start in the outfield — couldn't snare while crashing into the wall. Gosselin cruised into third with a run-scoring triple while Melendez, whose face smacked the metal fencing, needed a moment to recover before staying in the game.

Brandon Marsh proceeded to drive in Gosselin for a 2-0 lead.

Gosselin had a chance to do more damage in the sixth, when Jared Walsh and Suzuki hit one-out singles and Magneuris Sierra walked to load the bases. Instead, Gosselin grounded to shortstop for an inning-ending double play.

It didn't matter. The Royals never came close to solving Junk or the Los Angeles bullpen all afternoon.

Angels OF Mike Trout will go at least another week without baseball activity because of his ailing back, trainer Mike Frostad said, and there’s a chance the three-time AL MVP could need to manage it the rest of his career.

Trout left a game against Houston on July 12 with what was called back spasms, then went on the injured list a week later with rib case inflammation. He had a cortisone injection last week for what has since been determined to be a rare spinal dysfunction.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Janson Junk didn't get a chance to pitch when the Los Angeles Angels recalled him from Triple-A Salt Lake last month.He made the most of his time on the mound Wednesday.Junk dazzled the Angels with five-plus innings of four-hit ball, mixing up a fastball with a two-seam slider, and earned his first major league win when the Los Angeles bullpen shut out the Kansas City Royals the rest of the way in a 4-0 victory.“After the last time I came up, I got activated but I wasn't able to throw,” said Junk (1-0), who did make a relief appearance in May after four starts last season. “It left a bitter taste in my mouth. I made it my mission to get back here.”He might get another shot, too, considering how he set down the Kansas City lineup. The 26-year-old allowed four hits and a walk while striking out eight before turning over a 2-0 lead to his bullpen, which did not allow a run for the second consecutive day.“He was pounding the strike zone. He knows what's effective for him,” interim Angels manager Phil Nevin said. “A lot of good fastballs, pitched ahead and just really pitched well.”Shohei Ohtani reached base three times and drove in a run, pacing a scuffling Angels offense that managed to capitalize on the Royals' shoddy fielding and get their first series win since June 27-29 against the White Sox.“We put some pressure on them,” Nevin said, “and then we were able to add a couple of runs.”Brad Keller (5-11) allowed three runs on six hits and three walks in six innings for Kansas City.“It was a really good outing,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “He gave us a chance to win and that's all we can ask.”Keller retired the first nine batters he faced and didn't allow a hit until the fifth, when Kurt Suzuki led off with a double to left field that Andrew Benintendi didn't field cleanly enough to hold Suzuki to one bag.One out later, Phil Gosselin drove a pitch to right that MJ Melendez — a catcher by trade making his eighth career start in the outfield — couldn't snare while crashing into the wall. Gosselin cruised into third with a run-scoring triple while Melendez, whose face smacked the metal fencing, needed a moment to recover before staying in the game.Brandon Marsh proceeded to drive in Gosselin for a 2-0 lead.Gosselin had a chance to do more damage in the sixth, when Jared Walsh and Suzuki hit one-out singles and Magneuris Sierra walked to load the bases. Instead, Gosselin grounded to shortstop for an inning-ending double play.It didn't matter. The Royals never came close to solving Junk or the Los Angeles bullpen all afternoon.TROUT'S PROGNOSISAngels OF Mike Trout will go at least another week without baseball activity because of his ailing back, trainer Mike Frostad said, and there’s a chance the three-time AL MVP could need to manage it the rest of his career.Trout left a game against Houston on July 12 with what was called back spasms, then went on the injured list a week later with rib case inflammation. He had a cortisone injection last week for what has since been determined to be a rare spinal dysfunction.“Of course, that's my goal,” Trout said, when asked whether he plans to play again this season. “I'm going to see the doctor for a checkup and we'll go from there.”ROSTER MOVESAngels: RHP Austin Warren was optioned to Salt Lake to make room for Junk on the roster.Royals: LHP Angel Zerpa went on the IL after hurting his right knee while fielding a grounder down the first-base line in his start Tuesday night. RHP Jackson Kowar was recalled from Triple-A Omaha to replace him.TRAINER'S ROOMAngels: OF Jo Adell got the day off after getting hit in the arm by a pitch Tuesday night.Royals: SS Bobby Witt Jr. (hamstring) missed his third straight game, though Matheny said he's still hopeful of avoiding an IL trip. ... 1B Vinnie Pasquantino was out of the lineup with right thumb discomfort.UP NEXTAngels: Head home for a four-game series against Texas with RHP Shohei Ohtani (9-5, 2.80 ERA) starting Thursday night's opener.Royals: Embark on a seven-game trip with RHP Brady Singer (4-3, 3.82) on the mound for the first of four games against the Yankees on Thursday night.