KANSAS
CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals
announced today that they have acquired right-handed pitcher Luke Weaver from Arizona for infielder Emmanuel Rivera. 

Weaver,
who turns 29 on Aug. 21, has made 12 appearances (1 start) for the Diamondbacks
this season, striking out 19 batters while walking only five, good for a 3.8
K/BB ratio. He missed most of April and all of May while on the Injured List
with right shoulder inflammation, but over 8 appearances in July, he allowed just
1 run on 4 hits while striking out 8, for a 1.13 ERA (8.0 IP).

Over
parts of seven seasons, he has gone 24-36 with a 4.76 ERA (228 ER in 431.1 IP),
443 strikeouts and a 1.38 WHIP. Prior to 2022, he made 80 of his first 89
appearances as a starting pitcher. From 2019-21, he has been teammates with Taylor Clarke, Zack Greinke and Joel
Payamps. 

He
was originally signed by the St. Louis Cardinals as a first-round pick (27th
overall) in the 2014 MLB Draft out of Florida State University and was acquired
by the D-backs in Dec. 2018.

Rivera,
26, appeared in 63 games with the Royals this season, posting a .237/.284/.399
slashline with 17 extra-base hits and 22 RBI, while playing in 57 games (53
starts) at third base. He was originally selected by the Royals in the 19th
round of the 2015 MLB Draft out of Universidad Interamericana in Puerto Rico. 

The Royals will make
a corresponding roster move when Weaver reports to the Major League club.

Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS
CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals
announced today that they have acquired right-handed pitcher Luke Weaver from Arizona for infielder Emmanuel Rivera. Weaver,
who turns 29 on Aug. 21, has made 12 appearances (1 start) for the Diamondbacks
this season, striking out 19 batters while walking only five, good for a 3.8
K/BB ratio. He missed most of April and all of May while on the Injured List
with right shoulder inflammation, but over 8 appearances in July, he allowed just
1 run on 4 hits while striking out 8, for a 1.13 ERA (8.0 IP).Over
parts of seven seasons, he has gone 24-36 with a 4.76 ERA (228 ER in 431.1 IP),
443 strikeouts and a 1.38 WHIP. Prior to 2022, he made 80 of his first 89
appearances as a starting pitcher. From 2019-21, he has been teammates with Taylor Clarke, Zack Greinke and Joel
Payamps. He
was originally signed by the St. Louis Cardinals as a first-round pick (27th
overall) in the 2014 MLB Draft out of Florida State University and was acquired
by the D-backs in Dec. 2018.Rivera,
26, appeared in 63 games with the Royals this season, posting a .237/.284/.399
slashline with 17 extra-base hits and 22 RBI, while playing in 57 games (53
starts) at third base. He was originally selected by the Royals in the 19th
round of the 2015 MLB Draft out of Universidad Interamericana in Puerto Rico. The Royals will make
a corresponding roster move when Weaver reports to the Major League club.

⚾ Royals trade Rivera to Arizona for RHP Luke Weaver

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Pro Bowl left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. reported to training camp Monday, the same day pads went on for the Kansas City Chiefs, giving Patrick Mahomes his blindside protector with plenty of time before their preseason opener.

Brown and the Chiefs had been working throughout the offseason on a long-term contract, but the sides were unable to come together before the mid-July deadline.

Brown ultimately rejected the Chiefs' final offer of six years and nearly $140 million — with $30.25 million due at signing — and decided to play out this season on the franchise tag.

In effect, Brown is gambling that his play this season will warrant an even bigger deal next offseason.

“It's hard to mimic the game speed and putting the uniform on and so on — the helmet and pads — when you're doing stuff on your own. You have to go through that to get yourself right and he understands that," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said after practice on a hot, humid morning. “He will just have to catch up on the new stuff and then the conditioning stuff.”

Brown, who will be due about $16.7 million under the franchise tag, skipped the offseason program and first week of camp, though he was not fined because he was not under contract. He still was not on the field Monday as he checked into camp, but is expected at practice this week; the Chiefs open the preseason Aug. 13 in Chicago.

“You have a right to throw him back in and go,” Reid said. “When he gets here, we'll talk to him and see where he's at.”

Roderick Johnson has been playing left tackle with the first team during the first week of camp, and that could give him the inside track on being the primary backup. He appeared in 29 games with six starts over three seasons in Houston.

While Johnson had earned rave reviews, the importance of having the Chiefs' best offensive line on the field was clear Monday when the pocket got pushed back and Mahomes got his foot stepped on. The Pro Bowl quarterback hobbled off the field and spent time with trainer Rick Burkholder before returning for final jogging and stretching.

Mahomes is not expected to miss any time in camp, but the close call is precisely what the 26-year-old Brown is expected to help prevent from happening. He only allowed four sacks and 37 pressures in his first season with Kansas City, and no sacks over the Chiefs' final five regular-season games.

With the 6-foot-8, 360-pound Brown back on the field, the Chiefs return their entire offensive line from last season.

And given that 29-year-old left guard Joe Thuney is the elder statesman, and 23-year-olds Creed Humphrey at center and Trey Smith at right guard have a year of experience, the group could take a dramatic step forward this season.

“Everybody in this building loves Big O,” Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce said with a smile. “Hopefully we get him here and acclimated as soon as possible. It's been a different locker room (without him in camp). Such a big dude, big personality. He brings a lot of life to the group and I'm happy to have him back.”

Notes: Reid did not sound concerned about Mahomes' ankle. “He got stepped on," Reid said. “He's fine.” ... TE Jody Fortson (quad) did conditioning and rehab work after getting hurt in Saturday's workout. ... Kelce is among numerous players who complained about the new Guardian Caps, which some players are required to wear over their helmets at practice through the first two preseason games. They are designed to minimize the impact of helmet-to-helmet hits. “We're out there wearing these mushroom caps that are just adding weight to our heads,” Kelce said. “Hope we get rid of them.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Pro Bowl left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. reported to training camp Monday, the same day pads went on for the Kansas City Chiefs, giving Patrick Mahomes his blindside protector with plenty of time before their preseason opener.Brown and the Chiefs had been working throughout the offseason on a long-term contract, but the sides were unable to come together before the mid-July deadline.Brown ultimately rejected the Chiefs' final offer of six years and nearly $140 million — with $30.25 million due at signing — and decided to play out this season on the franchise tag.In effect, Brown is gambling that his play this season will warrant an even bigger deal next offseason.“It's hard to mimic the game speed and putting the uniform on and so on — the helmet and pads — when you're doing stuff on your own. You have to go through that to get yourself right and he understands that," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said after practice on a hot, humid morning. “He will just have to catch up on the new stuff and then the conditioning stuff.”Brown, who will be due about $16.7 million under the franchise tag, skipped the offseason program and first week of camp, though he was not fined because he was not under contract. He still was not on the field Monday as he checked into camp, but is expected at practice this week; the Chiefs open the preseason Aug. 13 in Chicago.“You have a right to throw him back in and go,” Reid said. “When he gets here, we'll talk to him and see where he's at.”Roderick Johnson has been playing left tackle with the first team during the first week of camp, and that could give him the inside track on being the primary backup. He appeared in 29 games with six starts over three seasons in Houston.While Johnson had earned rave reviews, the importance of having the Chiefs' best offensive line on the field was clear Monday when the pocket got pushed back and Mahomes got his foot stepped on. The Pro Bowl quarterback hobbled off the field and spent time with trainer Rick Burkholder before returning for final jogging and stretching.Mahomes is not expected to miss any time in camp, but the close call is precisely what the 26-year-old Brown is expected to help prevent from happening. He only allowed four sacks and 37 pressures in his first season with Kansas City, and no sacks over the Chiefs' final five regular-season games.With the 6-foot-8, 360-pound Brown back on the field, the Chiefs return their entire offensive line from last season.And given that 29-year-old left guard Joe Thuney is the elder statesman, and 23-year-olds Creed Humphrey at center and Trey Smith at right guard have a year of experience, the group could take a dramatic step forward this season.“Everybody in this building loves Big O,” Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce said with a smile. “Hopefully we get him here and acclimated as soon as possible. It's been a different locker room (without him in camp). Such a big dude, big personality. He brings a lot of life to the group and I'm happy to have him back.”Notes: Reid did not sound concerned about Mahomes' ankle. “He got stepped on," Reid said. “He's fine.” ... TE Jody Fortson (quad) did conditioning and rehab work after getting hurt in Saturday's workout. ... Kelce is among numerous players who complained about the new Guardian Caps, which some players are required to wear over their helmets at practice through the first two preseason games. They are designed to minimize the impact of helmet-to-helmet hits. “We're out there wearing these mushroom caps that are just adding weight to our heads,” Kelce said. “Hope we get rid of them.”

🏈Chiefs LT Brown reports to camp, set to sign franchise tag

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals acquired left-hander Anthony Misiewicz from the Seattle Mariners for cash considerations Monday.

The 27-year-old Misiewicz, who will be added to the Royals' 40-man roster and optioned to Triple-A Omaha, appeared in 17 games for Seattle this season with a 4.61 ERA. He was optioned to Triple-A Tacoma on June 10, where he had a 3.65 ERA in 13 appearances.

Misiewicz made his big league debut in 2020 and led Seattle in appearances in each of his first two seasons, including a career-best 66 last season, when his 19 holds ranked eighth in the American League.

Misiewicz was teammates in Seattle with Wyatt Mills, whom the Royals acquired from the Mariners on June 27.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals acquired left-hander Anthony Misiewicz from the Seattle Mariners for cash considerations Monday.The 27-year-old Misiewicz, who will be added to the Royals' 40-man roster and optioned to Triple-A Omaha, appeared in 17 games for Seattle this season with a 4.61 ERA. He was optioned to Triple-A Tacoma on June 10, where he had a 3.65 ERA in 13 appearances.Misiewicz made his big league debut in 2020 and led Seattle in appearances in each of his first two seasons, including a career-best 66 last season, when his 19 holds ranked eighth in the American League.Misiewicz was teammates in Seattle with Wyatt Mills, whom the Royals acquired from the Mariners on June 27.

⚾Royals acquire LHP Anthony Misiewicz from Seattle for cash

The Hays Larks play the Lonestar (TX) Kraken at the NBC World Series at Eck Stadium in Wichita. The winner advances to bracket play. The loser is done.

Game time is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Listen on 96.9, KFIX or click on the link below.

<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>

The Hays Larks play the Lonestar (TX) Kraken at the NBC World Series at Eck Stadium in Wichita. The winner advances to bracket play. The loser is done.Game time is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Listen on 96.9, KFIX or click on the link below.<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>

🎧 LISTEN - Hays Larks vs. Lonestar Kraken at NBC World Series

By TOMMY REZAC St. Joseph Post

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — It was a warm, muggy day for the first fully padded practice at Chiefs training camp Monday.

It
 was a productive, straightforward practice that was a bit shorter, per 
NFL rules. There was a brief scare for fans when Patrick Mahomes 
slightly tweaked his left leg toward the end of practice.

He
 went to the medical tent to get tape on his lower left leg, and he was 
back on the field doing individual drills before practice ended.

Head coach Andy Reid says Mahomes will be fine, and he felt that the first day in pads was solid overall.

"You
 play in these things and you get used to them," he said. "That's what 
this is all about. We try to do it where guys are off the ground and 
they can get the work in and keep people healthy, but still play hard 
and get ourselves into football shape for a game."

Going back to 
Mahomes briefly, he told ESPN's Adam Teicher, "I got stepped on pretty 
hard... luckily it wasn't any of the ankle or anything like that."

Elsewhere, tight end Jody Forston was held out Monday with a quad strain, but he’ll be back in a few days, says Reid.

No
 Orlando Brown Jr. yet, though he’s expected to be at camp any day. 
Reports Monday indicate that Brown has signed his franchise tag, which 
will pay him $16.6 million this season.

Brown has to pass a 
physical and conditioning test before practicing. Reid said he doesn't 
precisely know when Brown will be on the field.

"When he gets 
here, we'll talk to him and see where he's at and be smart with it," 
Reid said. "When the fish is in the boat, I'll let you know."

Brown
 was acquired in a trade with the Ravens last year and he’s a three-time
 Pro Bowler. He’s expected to again be the go-to guy at left tackle. In 
his absence, fifth-year pro Roderick Johnson has been anchoring that 
position.

The former Blue Springs and Kansas State star is in his sixth year in the NFL and his first in a Chiefs uniform.

"I
 went to high school in Blue Springs, so I was 15 miles east of the 
stadium," Lee said. "Just riding by, you wish and hope to be in this 
position. Now that I'm in it, I'm thankful. It's a blessing and I have 
to take advantage of the opportunity."

Lee has been getting 
first-team reps at outside linebacker after spending a decent chunk of 
his career either on practice squads or special teams. He’s grasped the 
scheme well, but Lee wants to keep earning his spot.

"I'm a guy 
trying to earn my spot and I do that each and every way," he said. "So, 
whatever my role is, I'm going to take advantage of that, and then we 
can talk after that. But, right now, it's all about the work."

&nbsp;Lee
 spent his freshman and sophomore year of high school at St. Joseph 
Central before transferring to Blue Springs. He says being back at the 
Mosaic Training Fields does invoke some memories from his days in St. 
Joe.

"We used to come over here and I was a towel boy and gave the
 water," Lee recalled. "So, I got to hand over towels to Tamba Hali and 
Justin Houston. And I'm like, 'Wow. Like, this is amazing.' So now, to 
come back and be in this position, this is a great opportunity."

Lee
 has spent time with the Vikings, 49ers, Lions and Browns. He's appeared
 in 66 games, making six starts. He owns 99 career tackles, including 
four tackles for loss.

Travis Kelce - likes the Chiefs, but not the helmet guardian caps

The
 seven-time Pro Bowler and a fan favorite at tight end, Kelce is 
entering his 10th season with the Chiefs - all under Andy Reid.

Kelce left no doubt - he'll finish out his career in Kansas City.

"I
 don't see myself going anywhere else, man," he said. "(Reid) makes the 
game fun, makes the game easy on a lot of us. On top of that, we know 
he's giving it his all. I joke about it all the time - I never see his 
car move from the parking lot at Arrowhead. He's doing everything he can
 to set us up for success."

While Kelce is fond of the Kingdom, 
he's not so fond of the new guardian caps - the soft shells that go over
 players’ helmets and are designed to curb head injuries.

Linemen, linebackers and tight ends are all required to wear them through the second week of the preseason.

 Numerous other players around the league have been critical of them. That list now includes Kelce.

"I think the guardian caps are silly," Kelce remarked, noting that they look like "mushroom caps" that "add extra weight."

The Chiefs are back at practice Tuesday morning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659379020823.jpeg" alt="Patrick Mahomes (15), Shane Buechele (6) and Chad Henne (4) come down the hill to start practice Monday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Patrick Mahomes (15), Shane Buechele (6) and Chad Henne (4) come down the hill to start practice Monday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZAC St. Joseph PostST. JOSEPH, Mo. — It was a warm, muggy day for the first fully padded practice at Chiefs training camp Monday.It
 was a productive, straightforward practice that was a bit shorter, per 
NFL rules. There was a brief scare for fans when Patrick Mahomes 
slightly tweaked his left leg toward the end of practice.He
 went to the medical tent to get tape on his lower left leg, and he was 
back on the field doing individual drills before practice ended.Head coach Andy Reid says Mahomes will be fine, and he felt that the first day in pads was solid overall."You
 play in these things and you get used to them," he said. "That's what 
this is all about. We try to do it where guys are off the ground and 
they can get the work in and keep people healthy, but still play hard 
and get ourselves into football shape for a game."Going back to 
Mahomes briefly, he told ESPN's Adam Teicher, "I got stepped on pretty 
hard... luckily it wasn't any of the ankle or anything like that."Elsewhere, tight end Jody Forston was held out Monday with a quad strain, but he’ll be back in a few days, says Reid.No
 Orlando Brown Jr. yet, though he’s expected to be at camp any day. 
Reports Monday indicate that Brown has signed his franchise tag, which 
will pay him $16.6 million this season.Brown has to pass a 
physical and conditioning test before practicing. Reid said he doesn't 
precisely know when Brown will be on the field."When he gets 
here, we'll talk to him and see where he's at and be smart with it," 
Reid said. "When the fish is in the boat, I'll let you know."Brown
 was acquired in a trade with the Ravens last year and he’s a three-time
 Pro Bowler. He’s expected to again be the go-to guy at left tackle. In 
his absence, fifth-year pro Roderick Johnson has been anchoring that 
position.<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Mon Aug 01 2022 14:46:00 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Chiefs training camp 8-1"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M26S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/JRZhD0in-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/JRZhD0in-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/JRZhD0in-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Chiefs training camp 8-1" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Elijah LeeThe former Blue Springs and Kansas State star is in his sixth year in the NFL and his first in a Chiefs uniform.Needless to say, he's happy to be home."I
 went to high school in Blue Springs, so I was 15 miles east of the 
stadium," Lee said. "Just riding by, you wish and hope to be in this 
position. Now that I'm in it, I'm thankful. It's a blessing and I have 
to take advantage of the opportunity."Lee has been getting 
first-team reps at outside linebacker after spending a decent chunk of 
his career either on practice squads or special teams. He’s grasped the 
scheme well, but Lee wants to keep earning his spot."I'm a guy 
trying to earn my spot and I do that each and every way," he said. "So, 
whatever my role is, I'm going to take advantage of that, and then we 
can talk after that. But, right now, it's all about the work."&nbsp;Lee
 spent his freshman and sophomore year of high school at St. Joseph 
Central before transferring to Blue Springs. He says being back at the 
Mosaic Training Fields does invoke some memories from his days in St. 
Joe."We used to come over here and I was a towel boy and gave the
 water," Lee recalled. "So, I got to hand over towels to Tamba Hali and 
Justin Houston. And I'm like, 'Wow. Like, this is amazing.' So now, to 
come back and be in this position, this is a great opportunity."Lee
 has spent time with the Vikings, 49ers, Lions and Browns. He's appeared
 in 66 games, making six starts. He owns 99 career tackles, including 
four tackles for loss.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659383199698.jpeg" alt="Travis Kelce" />
 <figcaption>Travis Kelce</figcaption>
 </figure>Travis Kelce - likes the Chiefs, but not the helmet guardian capsThe
 seven-time Pro Bowler and a fan favorite at tight end, Kelce is 
entering his 10th season with the Chiefs - all under Andy Reid.Kelce left no doubt - he'll finish out his career in Kansas City."I
 don't see myself going anywhere else, man," he said. "(Reid) makes the 
game fun, makes the game easy on a lot of us. On top of that, we know 
he's giving it his all. I joke about it all the time - I never see his 
car move from the parking lot at Arrowhead. He's doing everything he can
 to set us up for success."While Kelce is fond of the Kingdom, 
he's not so fond of the new guardian caps - the soft shells that go over
 players’ helmets and are designed to curb head injuries.Linemen, linebackers and tight ends are all required to wear them through the second week of the preseason. Numerous other players around the league have been critical of them. That list now includes Kelce."I think the guardian caps are silly," Kelce remarked, noting that they look like "mushroom caps" that "add extra weight."The Chiefs are back at practice Tuesday morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659383114115.jpeg" alt="Juju Smith-Schuster (9) goes for a catch during warmups." />
 <figcaption>Juju Smith-Schuster (9) goes for a catch during warmups.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659383184664.jpeg" alt="Ronald Jones" />
 <figcaption>Ronald Jones</figcaption>
 </figure>

Chiefs have first padded practice; Mahomes OK after scare

KANSAS
CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals
announced today that they have acquired left-handed pitcher Anthony Misiewicz from the Seattle Mariners for cash
considerations. Misiewicz will be added to the Royals 40-man roster and
optioned to Triple-A Omaha.

Misiewicz
(mih-SEV-itch) recorded a 4.61 ERA (7 ER in 13.2 IP) with Seattle this season
before being designated for assignment on Sunday. He pitched in 17 of the
club’s first 50 games through June 1 and was optioned to Triple-A Tacoma on
June 10, where he posted a 3.65 ERA (5 ER in 12.1 IP) in 13 appearances. 

He
made his Major League debut with Seattle in 2020 and led the Mariners in
appearances in each of his first two seasons (2020-21), including a career-best
66 outings last year, when he ranked tied for 8th in the American
League with a career-high 19 holds. During the last two seasons in Seattle,
Misiewicz was teammates with Wyatt
Mills, who the Royals acquired
from the Mariners on June 27.

Misiewicz,
27, was selected by Seattle in the 18th round of the 2015 First-Year
Player Draft out of Michigan State University. He was traded to Tampa Bay in a six-player
deal in August 2017, but Seattle reacquired him four months later for
international bonus slot money.

KANSAS
CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals
announced today that they have acquired left-handed pitcher Anthony Misiewicz from the Seattle Mariners for cash
considerations. Misiewicz will be added to the Royals 40-man roster and
optioned to Triple-A Omaha.Misiewicz
(mih-SEV-itch) recorded a 4.61 ERA (7 ER in 13.2 IP) with Seattle this season
before being designated for assignment on Sunday. He pitched in 17 of the
club’s first 50 games through June 1 and was optioned to Triple-A Tacoma on
June 10, where he posted a 3.65 ERA (5 ER in 12.1 IP) in 13 appearances. He
made his Major League debut with Seattle in 2020 and led the Mariners in
appearances in each of his first two seasons (2020-21), including a career-best
66 outings last year, when he ranked tied for 8th in the American
League with a career-high 19 holds. During the last two seasons in Seattle,
Misiewicz was teammates with Wyatt
Mills, who the Royals acquired
from the Mariners on June 27.Misiewicz,
27, was selected by Seattle in the 18th round of the 2015 First-Year
Player Draft out of Michigan State University. He was traded to Tampa Bay in a six-player
deal in August 2017, but Seattle reacquired him four months later for
international bonus slot money.

⚾ Royals acquire LHP Anthony Misiewicz from Seattle

Tickets are still available for this year's Tiger Auction and Dinner on August 20th at the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility.

Website for auction information and to purchase tickets:&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/feature/fhsutigerauction?path=general" target="_blank">https://fhsuathletics.com/feature/fhsutigerauction?path=general</a>

Can also call 785-628-4050 to purchase tickets

Tickets cost $100 per person and include bid number, buffet dinner, and drinks

Tables of 12 can be purchased for either $1,200 which gets you 12 bid numbers or $1,500 which gets you 12 bid numbers, mentioned as a Table Sponsor in the Auction Catalog, and 2 General Admission All-Sport tickets for the upcoming 2022-23 school year.

Please purchase your Tiger Auction tickets by Friday, August 12th

Location: Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility Date: Saturday, August 20th Schedule 4:00pm Doors Open 5:00pm Dinner served 6:30pm Live Auction Starts 7:30pm Premium Table #1 closes 8:30pm Premium Table #2 closes

There will be an online auction for those who can’t make the in-person auction starting on Monday, August 15th&nbsp;and ending on Wednesday, August 17th.

For the in-person auction, there will be around 250 items up for grabs overall with 80-85 items as part of the live oral auction. The auction will pause for Item #40 again this year where FHSU Athletics will be accepting cash donations for the new Bickle-Schmidt Athletic Complex project at Lewis Field. With two matching $100,000 gifts already, this year’s Item #40 goal is $400,000. &nbsp;

For any questions or concerns, please reach out to Assistant Athletic Director Matt Cook by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mjcook8@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">mjcook8@fhsu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659368444192.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Tickets are still available for this year's Tiger Auction and Dinner on August 20th at the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility.Website for auction information and to purchase tickets:&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/feature/fhsutigerauction?path=general" target="_blank">https://fhsuathletics.com/feature/fhsutigerauction?path=general</a>Can also call 785-628-4050 to purchase ticketsTickets cost $100 per person and include bid number, buffet dinner, and drinksTables of 12 can be purchased for either $1,200 which gets you 12 bid numbers or $1,500 which gets you 12 bid numbers, mentioned as a Table Sponsor in the Auction Catalog, and 2 General Admission All-Sport tickets for the upcoming 2022-23 school year.Please purchase your Tiger Auction tickets by Friday, August 12thLocation: Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility Date: Saturday, August 20th Schedule 4:00pm Doors Open 5:00pm Dinner served 6:30pm Live Auction Starts 7:30pm Premium Table #1 closes 8:30pm Premium Table #2 closesThere will be an online auction for those who can’t make the in-person auction starting on Monday, August 15th&nbsp;and ending on Wednesday, August 17th.For the in-person auction, there will be around 250 items up for grabs overall with 80-85 items as part of the live oral auction. The auction will pause for Item #40 again this year where FHSU Athletics will be accepting cash donations for the new Bickle-Schmidt Athletic Complex project at Lewis Field. With two matching $100,000 gifts already, this year’s Item #40 goal is $400,000. &nbsp;For any questions or concerns, please reach out to Assistant Athletic Director Matt Cook by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mjcook8@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">mjcook8@fhsu.edu</a>.

Tickets still available for 13th annual Tiger Auction and Dinner

The annual&nbsp;College Football America Yearbook&nbsp;publication has named&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6130">Hunter Budke</a>&nbsp;to its NCAA Division II Preseason Starting Lineup for the 2022 season. Budke was one of 26 players in NCAA Division II named to the list. Budke was an All-America First Team selection at tight end by five entities last year. He finished the year with 47 receptions for 620 yards and eight touchdowns. He averaged 4.3 catches per game and 13.2 yards per catch. He had two games with over 100 yards receiving last year. Below is the 2022 College Football America Yearbook Division II Preseason Starting Lineup. Offense Pos., Name, School, Class QB Tyson Bagent, Shepherd, Sr. RB Dwayne McGee, Lenoir-Rhyne, So. RB Josh Cummings, Western Colorado, Sr. WR Ryan Beach, Shepherd, So. WR Keilahn Harris, Oklahoma Baptist, Jr. TE&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6130">Hunter Budke</a>, Fort Hays State, Sr. OL Zein Obeid, Ferris State, Sr. OL Jacob Bruce, West Florida, Jr. OL Quinton Bobo, Bowie State, Sr. OL Joey Fisher, Shepherd, Sr. C Bryce Perkins, California (PA), Sr. Offense Pos., Name, School, Class DL Caleb Murphy, Ferris State, Jr. DL Tylen Coleman, Western New Mexico, Jr. DL Tyler Tate, Millersville, Sr. LB Nolan Reeve, Colorado Mines, Sr. LB Ben Straatmann, Missouri S&amp;T, Sr. LB Carter Duxbury, Winona State, Sr. DB Jermal Martin Jr., California (PA), Sr. DB Tristan Rankin, Mars Hill, Jr. DB Kobe Cummings, Missouri Western, Sr. DB Antoine Holloway II, Notre Dame (OH), Jr. Offense Pos., Name, School, Class P Clayton Crile, Catawba, Jr. PK Ritse Vaes, Midwestern State, So. KR Kory Gainwell, Delta State, So. PR Marcus Taylor, Ferris State, Sr. AP Jordan Terrell, Barton, So.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659366657744.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsThe annual&nbsp;College Football America Yearbook&nbsp;publication has named&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6130">Hunter Budke</a>&nbsp;to its NCAA Division II Preseason Starting Lineup for the 2022 season. Budke was one of 26 players in NCAA Division II named to the list. Budke was an All-America First Team selection at tight end by five entities last year. He finished the year with 47 receptions for 620 yards and eight touchdowns. He averaged 4.3 catches per game and 13.2 yards per catch. He had two games with over 100 yards receiving last year. Below is the 2022 College Football America Yearbook Division II Preseason Starting Lineup. Offense Pos., Name, School, Class QB Tyson Bagent, Shepherd, Sr. RB Dwayne McGee, Lenoir-Rhyne, So. RB Josh Cummings, Western Colorado, Sr. WR Ryan Beach, Shepherd, So. WR Keilahn Harris, Oklahoma Baptist, Jr. TE&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6130">Hunter Budke</a>, Fort Hays State, Sr. OL Zein Obeid, Ferris State, Sr. OL Jacob Bruce, West Florida, Jr. OL Quinton Bobo, Bowie State, Sr. OL Joey Fisher, Shepherd, Sr. C Bryce Perkins, California (PA), Sr. Offense Pos., Name, School, Class DL Caleb Murphy, Ferris State, Jr. DL Tylen Coleman, Western New Mexico, Jr. DL Tyler Tate, Millersville, Sr. LB Nolan Reeve, Colorado Mines, Sr. LB Ben Straatmann, Missouri S&amp;T, Sr. LB Carter Duxbury, Winona State, Sr. DB Jermal Martin Jr., California (PA), Sr. DB Tristan Rankin, Mars Hill, Jr. DB Kobe Cummings, Missouri Western, Sr. DB Antoine Holloway II, Notre Dame (OH), Jr. Offense Pos., Name, School, Class P Clayton Crile, Catawba, Jr. PK Ritse Vaes, Midwestern State, So. KR Kory Gainwell, Delta State, So. PR Marcus Taylor, Ferris State, Sr. AP Jordan Terrell, Barton, So.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 FHSU's Budke named to College Football America Yearbook D2 Preseason Starting Lineup

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — The Kansas City 
Chiefs officially concluded their first week of training camp with a 
Saturday morning practice - the last workout in half pads before full 
pads go on Monday.

Offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy says the 
start to camp has been encouraging, but he noticed a lack of focus 
amongst his group Saturday.

"The effort was outstanding,"
 Bieniemy said. "You can practice hard, but activity don't always equate
 to productivity. We have to make sure we're maximizing and detailing 
the little things that's going to help us become the offense we want to 
become."

Personnel wise, a pair of rookies on the offensive side 
had a chance to shine Saturday. Rookie receiver Skyy Moore continues to 
get reps with the first-team offense and is looking more the part as 
camp goes on.

Moore had a diving catch in tight coverage on a deep ball for the second day in a row Saturday.

"(Moore)
 goes out there and finds a way to get the job done on the next initial 
play," Bieniemy noted. "The thing he's also been great with is in the 
classroom, he's been receptive to the information. On top of that, he's 
seeing it and he has an opportunity to autocorrect. He'll very rarely 
repeat the same things twice."

Perhaps the biggest surprise 
Saturday was seeking rookie running back and seventh-round pick Isiah 
Pacheco getting reps with the first-team offense, rotating with Jerick 
McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire.

Pacheco has clear speed. He's 
also been getting some time on kick return this week. McKinnon, a 
ninth-year pro who just re-signed with the Chiefs in June, called 
Pacheco "a humble guy" whose work ethic is "top tier."

Clark
 spoke at length at the end of practice, and seemed to be in great 
spirits. He revealed that he's cut red meat and alcohol out of his diet 
as soon as the season ended in February.

Clark said he didn't feel as quick, and felt that he at times looked "sloppy" last season.

"I
 wanted to get back to feeling my feet," he said. "I feel like I wasn't 
feeling my feet as much last year. I wasn't as quick off the ball. I 
wasn't as explosive. I mean, it's obvious. You can watch the film and 
see I was way heavier. I had a gut. I was looking sloppy. I'm a 
professional, you know? I understand how this goes."

Clark has 
been several times this camp talking and working with fellow defensive 
end and rookie George Karlaftis, who was drafted 30th overall by the 
Chiefs this year out of Purdue.

Clark described a moment in 
Saturday's practice where Karlaftis asked him how to come off the ball 
quicker and be quicker on the snap. When Karlaftis tried doing what 
Clark told him to, the rookie couldn't wait to tell the seasoned veteran
 all about it.

"That was the most excited I've seen a rookie," 
said Clark. "His ability to retain the knowledge I was telling him and 
for him to go do it and for him to feel it and see the success from it. I
 was happy and enjoyed his fruits. At the end of the day, that's how I 
feel about George."

Clark is still waiting to see what will come 
of his current legal matters. He had two offseason arrests in California
 in 2021, and has pleaded not guilty to two counts of possession of an 
assault weapon.

Clark was arrested both times on suspicion of 
having a concealed firearm in a vehicle. He could face a suspension from
 the NFL for violation of their personal conduct policy.

Clark didn't go into much detail Saturday, other than he "feels good" about where he and his legal team are at on things.

Tight
 end Jody Forston left practice early Saturday due to a quad injury. The
 team says they’ll know more Monday. Otherwise, nothing new. Lucas 
Niang, Prince Tega Wanogho and Rashad Fenton are still on the injured 
list. Orlando Brown, Jr. has yet to sign and report.

With
 Brown still not present, that's opened the door for Roderick Johnson to
 be the go-to guy at left tackle initially. On Saturday, there was the 
first sign of rotation there, as Johnson worked at right tackle and 
Andrew Wylie moved to left tackle.

The Chiefs rest Sunday, and will return Monday for a full contact practice in full pads. Let the games begin.

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659366578725.jpeg" alt="Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid have a chat during drills Saturday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid have a chat during drills Saturday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZAC St. Joseph PostST. JOSEPH, Mo. — The Kansas City 
Chiefs officially concluded their first week of training camp with a 
Saturday morning practice - the last workout in half pads before full 
pads go on Monday.Offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy says the 
start to camp has been encouraging, but he noticed a lack of focus 
amongst his group Saturday."The effort was outstanding,"
 Bieniemy said. "You can practice hard, but activity don't always equate
 to productivity. We have to make sure we're maximizing and detailing 
the little things that's going to help us become the offense we want to 
become."Personnel wise, a pair of rookies on the offensive side 
had a chance to shine Saturday. Rookie receiver Skyy Moore continues to 
get reps with the first-team offense and is looking more the part as 
camp goes on.Moore had a diving catch in tight coverage on a deep ball for the second day in a row Saturday."(Moore)
 goes out there and finds a way to get the job done on the next initial 
play," Bieniemy noted. "The thing he's also been great with is in the 
classroom, he's been receptive to the information. On top of that, he's 
seeing it and he has an opportunity to autocorrect. He'll very rarely 
repeat the same things twice."Perhaps the biggest surprise 
Saturday was seeking rookie running back and seventh-round pick Isiah 
Pacheco getting reps with the first-team offense, rotating with Jerick 
McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire.Pacheco has clear speed. He's 
also been getting some time on kick return this week. McKinnon, a 
ninth-year pro who just re-signed with the Chiefs in June, called 
Pacheco "a humble guy" whose work ethic is "top tier."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659366636798.jpeg" alt="Daurice Fountain (82) hauls in a pass." />
 <figcaption>Daurice Fountain (82) hauls in a pass.</figcaption>
 </figure>Frank ClarkClark
 spoke at length at the end of practice, and seemed to be in great 
spirits. He revealed that he's cut red meat and alcohol out of his diet 
as soon as the season ended in February.Clark said he didn't feel as quick, and felt that he at times looked "sloppy" last season."I
 wanted to get back to feeling my feet," he said. "I feel like I wasn't 
feeling my feet as much last year. I wasn't as quick off the ball. I 
wasn't as explosive. I mean, it's obvious. You can watch the film and 
see I was way heavier. I had a gut. I was looking sloppy. I'm a 
professional, you know? I understand how this goes."Clark has 
been several times this camp talking and working with fellow defensive 
end and rookie George Karlaftis, who was drafted 30th overall by the 
Chiefs this year out of Purdue.Clark described a moment in 
Saturday's practice where Karlaftis asked him how to come off the ball 
quicker and be quicker on the snap. When Karlaftis tried doing what 
Clark told him to, the rookie couldn't wait to tell the seasoned veteran
 all about it."That was the most excited I've seen a rookie," 
said Clark. "His ability to retain the knowledge I was telling him and 
for him to go do it and for him to feel it and see the success from it. I
 was happy and enjoyed his fruits. At the end of the day, that's how I 
feel about George."Clark is still waiting to see what will come 
of his current legal matters. He had two offseason arrests in California
 in 2021, and has pleaded not guilty to two counts of possession of an 
assault weapon.Clark was arrested both times on suspicion of 
having a concealed firearm in a vehicle. He could face a suspension from
 the NFL for violation of their personal conduct policy.Clark didn't go into much detail Saturday, other than he "feels good" about where he and his legal team are at on things.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659366669449.jpeg" alt="Matt Bushman (89) catches a pass in coverage. Photo by Tommy Rezac" />
 <figcaption>Matt Bushman (89) catches a pass in coverage. Photo by Tommy Rezac</figcaption>
 </figure>Injury updateTight
 end Jody Forston left practice early Saturday due to a quad injury. The
 team says they’ll know more Monday. Otherwise, nothing new. Lucas 
Niang, Prince Tega Wanogho and Rashad Fenton are still on the injured 
list. Orlando Brown, Jr. has yet to sign and report.Offensive lineWith
 Brown still not present, that's opened the door for Roderick Johnson to
 be the go-to guy at left tackle initially. On Saturday, there was the 
first sign of rotation there, as Johnson worked at right tackle and 
Andrew Wylie moved to left tackle.The Chiefs rest Sunday, and will return Monday for a full contact practice in full pads. Let the games begin.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Full pads in Chiefs training camp beginning Monday

Former Hays High standout Dylan Ruder is headed to Wisconsin. Ruder will continue has basketball career at Division III Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Ruder attended Kansas Wesleyan following his HHS career but didn't play for the Coyotes.

Ruder was 5A All-State as a senior during the 2019-20 season and helped the Indians to the first of three-straight Western Athletic Conference titles and the 5A state semifinals. The tournament was eventually cancelled following the quarterfinal round due to COVID-19.

Hays PostFormer Hays High standout Dylan Ruder is headed to Wisconsin. Ruder will continue has basketball career at Division III Wisconsin-Stevens Point.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Please join us in welcoming 6’10 Sophomore center Dylan Ruder (<a href="https://twitter.com/DylanCRuder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DylanCRuder</a>) Transfer—Kansas Wesleyan 📚Hays HS 🏅’19-‘20 KBCA 5A All-State 🏅’19-‘20 Academic All-State 🏅’19-‘20 1st Team All-WAC 🏅’19-‘20 Hays All-Area 2nd Team 🏆’19-‘20 Sub-State Champ 🧑🏻‍✈️’19-‘20 Team Captain <a href="https://t.co/L4ALyq8WAl">pic.twitter.com/L4ALyq8WAl</a>&mdash; UWSP Basketball (@PointersMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/PointersMBB/status/1554096806342152193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Ruder attended Kansas Wesleyan following his HHS career but didn't play for the Coyotes.Ruder was 5A All-State as a senior during the 2019-20 season and helped the Indians to the first of three-straight Western Athletic Conference titles and the 5A state semifinals. The tournament was eventually cancelled following the quarterfinal round due to COVID-19.

🏀 Former HHS standout heading to Wisconsin

HAYS – Skyler Tebo successfully defended his Hays Merchant’s
Tournament title from a year ago. Tebo finished the two-day event at 5-under-par
and won by four strokes over a group of four other golfers. 

Tebo shot a 2-under-par
69 at Smoky Hill Country Club Saturday then fired a 3-under-par 68 at the Fort
Hays Municipal Golf Course in the final round Sunday for his second straight
city championship.

Michael Reese, Lonnie Melvin, Matt Berens and Brent Millikan
all finished with a two-day total of 141 and tied for second in the championship
flight.

Nick Schlyer shot a two-day 151 and won the first flight by one shot over Jayden Richardson.

Mel Rohr was the second flight winner with a 159, one ahead of Nolan Smith

Hays PostHAYS – Skyler Tebo successfully defended his Hays Merchant’s
Tournament title from a year ago. Tebo finished the two-day event at 5-under-par
and won by four strokes over a group of four other golfers. Tebo shot a 2-under-par
69 at Smoky Hill Country Club Saturday then fired a 3-under-par 68 at the Fort
Hays Municipal Golf Course in the final round Sunday for his second straight
city championship.Michael Reese, Lonnie Melvin, Matt Berens and Brent Millikan
all finished with a two-day total of 141 and tied for second in the championship
flight.Nick Schlyer shot a two-day 151 and won the first flight by one shot over Jayden Richardson.Mel Rohr was the second flight winner with a 159, one ahead of Nolan SmithComplete results below...<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659357042300.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659357099908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

⛳ Tebo wins Merchant's Golf Tourney

NEW YORK (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a three-run homer off All-Star closer Clay Holmes in the ninth inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the New York Yankees 8-6 Sunday to avoid being swept in the season series.

New York overcame a 4-0 deficit and took a 6-4 lead when Anthony Rizzo hit a three-run homer into the right field second deck in the seventh off Dylan Coleman, Rizzo's 25th home run this season.

Hunter Dozier homered against Ron Marinaccio leading off the eighth, ending Marinaccio's 19-inning scoreless streak and run of 56 consecutive batters without allowing a hit.

Holmes (5-2) blew a save for the third time in 20 chances.

Whit Merrifield walked with one out — Holmes' eighth walk in his last eight games and five in his first 35.

Bobby Witt Jr. was hit on a hand with a pitch, forcing him from the game.

Perez, who struck out twice and popped out to the catcher in his first three at-bats, drove a 1-2 sinker 441 feet into Monument Park behind the center-field wall. It was the first home run allowed this year by Holmes, who was facing his 181st batter.

Taylor Clarke (2-1) threw a perfect eighth, then gave up DJ LeMahieu's single with one out in the ninth. Aaron Judge flied out, Rizzo walked and Gleyber Torres hit a game-ending lineout to center.

Kansas City went 1-6 against the AL leading-Yankees, who last swept a season series of seven games are more by going 7-0 against Minnesotain 2009.

Judge went 0 for 3 with two walks and ended July with a major league-leading 42 homers and 91 RBIs.

Royals starter Zack Greinke allowed three runs, five hits and two walks with three strikeouts over five innings.

Yankees starter Jordan Montgomery gave up four runs, four hits and two walks with six strikeouts in four-plus innings.

Kansas City took a 4-0 lead in the fifth on Nick Pratto's two-run single, Maikel García's RBI double and Merrifield's run-scoring groundout.

Kyle Higashioka had an RBI single in the botttom half, and LeMahieu hit a two-run homer into the right-field short porch.

His streak of consecutive batters without a hit was the second-longest since 1974, according to STATS, behind Dennis Eckersley's 71 for Cleveland in 1977 and Dwight Gooden's 57 for the Yankees in 1996.

Judge’s batting average dipped from .300 to .297. No one has batted at least .300 while hitting at least 50 homers and exceeding 100 RBIs since Alex Rodriguez hit .314 with 54 homers and 156 RBIs for the Yankees in 2007.

Rizzo’s home run cost Greinke a chance to earn his win at the Yankees. He is 0-3 with an 8.63 ERA in eight games in the Bronx, including old Yankee Stadium.

Yankees: RHP Luis Severino (right lat) is expected to begin throwing Monday. … OF/DH Giancarlo Stanton (left Achilles) will begin baseball activities this week. … LHP Zack Britton (left elbow) is scheduled to face batters this week for the first time since he Tommy John surgery last September.

Royals: RHP Brad Keller (5-11, 4.18), who leads the AL in losses, is slated to open a three-game series against the visiting Chicago White Sox.

Yankees: RHP Domingo Germá (0-1, 8.22 ERA) will make his third start of the season as a homestand continues with the opener of three-game set against Seattle.

NEW YORK (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a three-run homer off All-Star closer Clay Holmes in the ninth inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the New York Yankees 8-6 Sunday to avoid being swept in the season series.New York overcame a 4-0 deficit and took a 6-4 lead when Anthony Rizzo hit a three-run homer into the right field second deck in the seventh off Dylan Coleman, Rizzo's 25th home run this season.Hunter Dozier homered against Ron Marinaccio leading off the eighth, ending Marinaccio's 19-inning scoreless streak and run of 56 consecutive batters without allowing a hit.Holmes (5-2) blew a save for the third time in 20 chances.Whit Merrifield walked with one out — Holmes' eighth walk in his last eight games and five in his first 35.Bobby Witt Jr. was hit on a hand with a pitch, forcing him from the game.Perez, who struck out twice and popped out to the catcher in his first three at-bats, drove a 1-2 sinker 441 feet into Monument Park behind the center-field wall. It was the first home run allowed this year by Holmes, who was facing his 181st batter.Taylor Clarke (2-1) threw a perfect eighth, then gave up DJ LeMahieu's single with one out in the ninth. Aaron Judge flied out, Rizzo walked and Gleyber Torres hit a game-ending lineout to center.Kansas City went 1-6 against the AL leading-Yankees, who last swept a season series of seven games are more by going 7-0 against Minnesotain 2009.Judge went 0 for 3 with two walks and ended July with a major league-leading 42 homers and 91 RBIs.Royals starter Zack Greinke allowed three runs, five hits and two walks with three strikeouts over five innings.Yankees starter Jordan Montgomery gave up four runs, four hits and two walks with six strikeouts in four-plus innings.Kansas City took a 4-0 lead in the fifth on Nick Pratto's two-run single, Maikel García's RBI double and Merrifield's run-scoring groundout.Kyle Higashioka had an RBI single in the botttom half, and LeMahieu hit a two-run homer into the right-field short porch.MARINACCIO STREAKHis streak of consecutive batters without a hit was the second-longest since 1974, according to STATS, behind Dennis Eckersley's 71 for Cleveland in 1977 and Dwight Gooden's 57 for the Yankees in 1996.JUDGEJudge’s batting average dipped from .300 to .297. No one has batted at least .300 while hitting at least 50 homers and exceeding 100 RBIs since Alex Rodriguez hit .314 with 54 homers and 156 RBIs for the Yankees in 2007.ZACK’S BIG APPLE DROUGHTRizzo’s home run cost Greinke a chance to earn his win at the Yankees. He is 0-3 with an 8.63 ERA in eight games in the Bronx, including old Yankee Stadium.TRAINER’S ROOMYankees: RHP Luis Severino (right lat) is expected to begin throwing Monday. … OF/DH Giancarlo Stanton (left Achilles) will begin baseball activities this week. … LHP Zack Britton (left elbow) is scheduled to face batters this week for the first time since he Tommy John surgery last September.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Brad Keller (5-11, 4.18), who leads the AL in losses, is slated to open a three-game series against the visiting Chicago White Sox.Yankees: RHP Domingo Germá (0-1, 8.22 ERA) will make his third start of the season as a homestand continues with the opener of three-game set against Seattle.

⚾ Perez's 9th inning homer leads Royals to win over Yanks

By CHRISTOPHER ADAMS <a href="http://www.emporiagazette.com/sports/article_3999e6f4-0ea4-11ed-a3e2-03b7182e40fc.html">The Emporia Gazette</a>

The nearly 100-year-old baseball 
institution of American Legion is hurting. It’s a 20th century 
organization struggling against the conventions of 2022.

It
 appears the 21st century is challenging the mid-century values of 
Legion ball with the existential indifference of Generation Z and a 
brave new America.

The
 Washington Post reported in 2017 that America Legion lost 25% of its 
teams nationwide over a 10-season span, adding that the figure was close
 to 80% in some states.

According to the Bangor Daily News, Oklahoma has two Legion teams, Georgia seven, Texas eight and Arizona nine.

The beleaguered youth program is having trouble in Kansas too.

“This
 is the first year, that I know of there has not been Emporia Legion,” 
said Lebo-Waverly head baseball coach Jason Konrade via email. “It's an 
unusual summer for baseball in the Emporia area with no legion. That’s 
big news in itself.”

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/855c1d2c-633f-4a24-aaef-070615eee7b0">RELATED: Bizarre ending for Hays Eagles at Legion state tournament.</a>

There are a few reasons for Legion’s dwindling popularity in the Jayhawk state.

Foremost
 seems to be the decade-long emergence of showcase tournaments that 
promote the player, not the team. They’re basically expensive 
opportunities to display individual skill sets to college coaches.

“I
 think these showcase baseball tournaments also kind of putting a hurt 
on…Topeka and Kansas City Schools used to have tons of Legion programs,”
 said Ryan Redeker, who coached an Emporia independent team this summer.
 “Topeka has one or two Legion programs now (one, according to the 
Legion website, which appears to only have information through the 2021 
season), and I don't think there's a single one in Kansas City at all.”

He rests the blame on these tournaments, saying summer baseball has been trending in this direction.

“Everybody's
 going to these showcase baseball things where you go play in front of 
college coaches on the weekend,” Redeker said. “All the elite players 
have gone to that, so your Legion has gone down to your smaller type 
schools.”

But even the best players from smaller schools or rural communities are defecting to elite showcase teams.

Tanner
 Willhoft, who coaches the Hays America Baseball Club 18U team, said the
 reality of the situation is that Legion ball isn’t a viable option.

“We had nobody really close to 
us at the AAA level of American Legion that we could really play…So it 
was one of those things where it's like, we don't have the competition 
to play, why are we doing it?”

Willhoft
 grew up playing Legion ball but agrees that showcase tournaments have 
become the preference and de facto system of summer baseball.

“In
 the summer, (Legion baseball) gives you great structure…where you have 
something to play for at the end of the year,” Willhoft said. “Whereas 
now, everybody's playing a different tournament every weekend. So you 
win one tournament. It's like, ‘Oh, nice you won a tournament,’ but not 
every team in the state is trying to get to it anymore.”

Kansas American Legion chairman Joe Durham said the organization is experiencing a slow time right now but is on the mend.

“We’re
 down this year there’s no doubt about it,” he said. “Covid hit us hard.
 We were just starting to get our feet back under us, and then we had 
some problems, and now we’re working our way through them.”

Durham cited scholarships as one of the reasons kids and parents are still drawn to American Legion.

“(Showcase tournaments) try to get coaches to come and give scholarships,” he said. “Well, we’re going to offer a scholarship.”

American Legion provides scholarships to qualifying high school seniors in the amount of $500 and potentially $2,500.

Durham also said parents have tired of the steep costs of showcase baseball, where the money is pocketed by coaches.

The
 Florida Times-Union reported that one of the reasons youth baseball is 
on the decline is the showcase cost. The publication stated, “Many 
families simply do not have the financial ability to pay for their sons 
to be on a traveling showcase team. One organization in Florida costs 
$3,800 for just one summer. Others are between $2,200 and $2,500.”

Emporia High School baseball 
coach Anthony Markowitz said the cost-benefit aspect of American Legion 
doesn’t favor the teams or players either.

“I
 think the only thing I would have to say is…the cost that teams had to 
pay for registration and insurance was more than what we got in return,”
 he said in a text message. “Kansas American Legion Baseball really 
never started until the middle of July when they organized Zone 
Tournaments. So we’re paying about $2,000 and only guaranteed a spot in a
 double elimination tournament.”

He said neighboring states’ programs do a better job administratively and structurally.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626957930788.jpeg" alt="The 2021 Hays Eagles. The team dropped its affiliation with the American Legion in 2022. File photo" />
 <figcaption>The 2021 Hays Eagles. The team dropped its affiliation with the American Legion in 2022. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CHRISTOPHER ADAMS <a href="http://www.emporiagazette.com/sports/article_3999e6f4-0ea4-11ed-a3e2-03b7182e40fc.html">The Emporia Gazette</a>The nearly 100-year-old baseball 
institution of American Legion is hurting. It’s a 20th century 
organization struggling against the conventions of 2022.It
 appears the 21st century is challenging the mid-century values of 
Legion ball with the existential indifference of Generation Z and a 
brave new America.The
 Washington Post reported in 2017 that America Legion lost 25% of its 
teams nationwide over a 10-season span, adding that the figure was close
 to 80% in some states.According to the Bangor Daily News, Oklahoma has two Legion teams, Georgia seven, Texas eight and Arizona nine.The beleaguered youth program is having trouble in Kansas too.“This
 is the first year, that I know of there has not been Emporia Legion,” 
said Lebo-Waverly head baseball coach Jason Konrade via email. “It's an 
unusual summer for baseball in the Emporia area with no legion. That’s 
big news in itself.”<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/855c1d2c-633f-4a24-aaef-070615eee7b0">RELATED: Bizarre ending for Hays Eagles at Legion state tournament.</a>There are a few reasons for Legion’s dwindling popularity in the Jayhawk state.Foremost
 seems to be the decade-long emergence of showcase tournaments that 
promote the player, not the team. They’re basically expensive 
opportunities to display individual skill sets to college coaches.“I
 think these showcase baseball tournaments also kind of putting a hurt 
on…Topeka and Kansas City Schools used to have tons of Legion programs,”
 said Ryan Redeker, who coached an Emporia independent team this summer.
 “Topeka has one or two Legion programs now (one, according to the 
Legion website, which appears to only have information through the 2021 
season), and I don't think there's a single one in Kansas City at all.”He rests the blame on these tournaments, saying summer baseball has been trending in this direction.“Everybody's
 going to these showcase baseball things where you go play in front of 
college coaches on the weekend,” Redeker said. “All the elite players 
have gone to that, so your Legion has gone down to your smaller type 
schools.”But even the best players from smaller schools or rural communities are defecting to elite showcase teams.Tanner
 Willhoft, who coaches the Hays America Baseball Club 18U team, said the
 reality of the situation is that Legion ball isn’t a viable option.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626961541174.png" alt="Willhoft" />
 <figcaption>Willhoft</figcaption>
 </figure>“We had nobody really close to 
us at the AAA level of American Legion that we could really play…So it 
was one of those things where it's like, we don't have the competition 
to play, why are we doing it?”Willhoft
 grew up playing Legion ball but agrees that showcase tournaments have 
become the preference and de facto system of summer baseball.“In
 the summer, (Legion baseball) gives you great structure…where you have 
something to play for at the end of the year,” Willhoft said. “Whereas 
now, everybody's playing a different tournament every weekend. So you 
win one tournament. It's like, ‘Oh, nice you won a tournament,’ but not 
every team in the state is trying to get to it anymore.”Kansas American Legion chairman Joe Durham said the organization is experiencing a slow time right now but is on the mend.“We’re
 down this year there’s no doubt about it,” he said. “Covid hit us hard.
 We were just starting to get our feet back under us, and then we had 
some problems, and now we’re working our way through them.”Durham cited scholarships as one of the reasons kids and parents are still drawn to American Legion.“(Showcase tournaments) try to get coaches to come and give scholarships,” he said. “Well, we’re going to offer a scholarship.”American Legion provides scholarships to qualifying high school seniors in the amount of $500 and potentially $2,500.Durham also said parents have tired of the steep costs of showcase baseball, where the money is pocketed by coaches.The
 Florida Times-Union reported that one of the reasons youth baseball is 
on the decline is the showcase cost. The publication stated, “Many 
families simply do not have the financial ability to pay for their sons 
to be on a traveling showcase team. One organization in Florida costs 
$3,800 for just one summer. Others are between $2,200 and $2,500.”Emporia High School baseball 
coach Anthony Markowitz said the cost-benefit aspect of American Legion 
doesn’t favor the teams or players either.“I
 think the only thing I would have to say is…the cost that teams had to 
pay for registration and insurance was more than what we got in return,”
 he said in a text message. “Kansas American Legion Baseball really 
never started until the middle of July when they organized Zone 
Tournaments. So we’re paying about $2,000 and only guaranteed a spot in a
 double elimination tournament.”He said neighboring states’ programs do a better job administratively and structurally.Republished with permission

What has happened to American Legion baseball in Kansas?

By JIMMY GOLEN AP Sports Writer

BOSTON — The NBA great Bill Russell has died at age 88. His family said on social media that Russell died on Sunday. The statement did not give the cause of death, but Russell was not well enough to present the NBA Finals MVP trophy in June due to a long illness. Russell anchored a Boston Celtics dynasty that won 11 titles in 13 years. His last two were as the first Black head coach in any major U.S. sport. Russell was a Hall of Famer, five-time MVP and 12-time All-Star. He won with defense and rebounding and waged battles with Wilt Chamberlain. Russell also marched for civil rights with Martin Luther King Jr. and stood with boxer Muhammad Ali when he refused military induction.

BOSTON (AP) — Bill Russell, the NBA great who anchored a Boston Celtics dynasty that won 11 championships in 13 years — the last two as the first Black head coach in any major U.S. sport — and marched for civil rights with Martin Luther King Jr., died Sunday. He was 88.

His family posted the news on social media, saying Russell died with his wife, Jeannine, by his side. The statement did not give the cause of death, but Russell was not well enough to present the NBA Finals MVP trophy in June due to a long illness.

"Bill's wife, Jeannine, and his many friends and family thank you for keeping Bill in your prayers. Perhaps you'll relive one or two of the golden moments he gave us, or recall his trademark laugh as he delighted in explaining the real story behind how those moments unfolded," the family statement said. "And we hope each of us can find a new way to act or speak up with Bill's uncompromising, dignified and always constructive commitment to principle. That would be one last, and lasting, win for our beloved #6."

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement that Russell was "the greatest champion in all of team sports."

"Bill stood for something much bigger than sports: the values of equality, respect and inclusion that he stamped into the DNA of our league. At the height of his athletic career, Bill advocated vigorously for civil rights and social justice, a legacy he passed down to generations of NBA players who followed in his footsteps," Silver said. "Through the taunts, threats and unthinkable adversity, Bill rose above it all and remained true to his belief that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity.

A Hall of Famer, five-time Most Valuable Player and 12-time All-Star, Russell in 1980 was voted the greatest player in the NBA history by basketball writers. He remains the sport's most prolific winner as a player and an archetype of selflessness who won with defense and rebounding while leaving the scoring to others. Often, that meant Wilt Chamberlain, the only player of the era who was a worthy rival for Russell.

But Russell dominated in the only stat he cared about: 11 championships to two.

The native of Louisiana also left a lasting mark as a Black athlete in a city — and country — where race is often a flash point. He was at the March on Washington in 1963, when King gave his "I Have a Dream" speech, and he backed Muhammad Ali when the boxer was pilloried for refusing induction into the military draft.

"To be the greatest champion in your sport, to revolutionize the way the game is played, and to be a societal leader all at once seems unthinkable, but that is who Bill Russell was," the Boston Celtics said in a statement.

In 2011, President Barack Obama awarded Russell the Medal of Freedom alongside Congressman John Lewis, billionaire investor Warren Buffett, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and baseball great Stan Musial.

"Bill Russell, the man, is someone who stood up for the rights and dignity of all men," Obama said at the ceremony. "He marched with King; he stood by Ali. When a restaurant refused to serve the Black Celtics, he refused to play in the scheduled game. He endured insults and vandalism, but he kept on focusing on making the teammates who he loved better players and made possible the success of so many who would follow."

Russell said that when he was growing up in the segregated South and later California his parents instilled in him the calm confidence that allowed him to brush off racist taunts.

"Years later, people asked me what I had to go through," Russell said in 2008. "Unfortunately, or fortunately, I've never been through anything. From my first moment of being alive was the notion that my mother and father loved me." It was Russell's mother who would tell him to disregard comments from those who might see him playing in the yard.

"Whatever they say, good or bad, they don't know you," he recalled her saying. "They're wrestling with their own demons."

But it was Jackie Robinson who gave Russell a road map for dealing with racism in his sport: "Jackie was a hero to us. He always conducted himself as a man. He showed me the way to be a man in professional sports."

The feeling was mutual, Russell learned, when Robinson's widow, Rachel, called and asked him to be a pallbearer at her husband's funeral in 1972.

"She hung the phone up and I asked myself, 'How do you get to be a hero to Jackie Robinson?'" Russell said. "I was so flattered."

William Felton Russell was born on Feb. 12, 1934, in Monroe, Louisiana. He was a child when his family moved to the West Coast, and he went to high school in Oakland, California, and then the University of San Francisco. He led the Dons to NCAA championships in 1955 and 1956 and won a gold medal in 1956 at the Melbourne Olympics in Australia.

Celtics coach and general manager Red Auerbach so coveted Russell that he worked out a trade with the St. Louis Hawks for the second pick in the draft. He promised the Rochester Royals, who owned the No. 1 pick, a lucrative visit by the Ice Capades, which were also run by Celtics owner Walter Brown.

Still, Russell arrived in Boston to complaints that he wasn't that good. "People said it was a wasted draft choice, wasted money," he recalled. "They said, 'He's no good. All he can do is block shots and rebound.' And Red said, 'That's enough.'"

The Celtics also picked up Tommy Heinsohn and K.C. Jones, Russell's college teammate, in the same draft. Although Russell joined the team late because he was leading the U.S. to the Olympic gold, Boston finished the regular season with the league's best record.

The Celtics won the NBA championship — their first of 17 — in a double-overtime seventh game against Bob Pettit's St. Louis Hawks. Russell won his first MVP award the next season, but the Hawks won the title in a finals rematch. The Celtics won it all again in 1959, starting an unprecedented string of eight consecutive NBA crowns.

A 6-foot-10 center, Russell never averaged more than 18.9 points during his 13 seasons, each year averaging more rebounds per game than points. For 10 seasons he averaged more than 20 rebounds. He once had 51 rebounds in a game; Chamberlain holds the record with 55.

Auerbach retired after winning the 1966 title, and Russell became the player-coach — the first Black head coach in NBA history, and almost a decade before Frank Robinson took over baseball's Cleveland Indians. Boston finished with the second-best regular-season record in the NBA, and its title streak ended with a loss to Chamberlain and the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Division finals.

Russell led the Celtics back to titles in 1968 and '69, each time winning seven-game playoff series against Chamberlain. Russell retired after the '69 finals, returning for a relatively successful — but unfulfilling — four-year stint as coach and GM of the Seattle SuperSonics and a less fruitful half season as coach of the Sacramento Kings.

Russell's No. 6 jersey was retired by the Celtics in 1972. He earned spots on the NBA's 25th anniversary all-time team in 1970, 35th anniversary team in 1980 and 75th anniversary team. In 1996, he was hailed as one of the NBA's 50 greatest players.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/asJt-3dpd90"></iframe>
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/NBATop10">Via NBA Top10</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By JIMMY GOLEN AP Sports WriterBOSTON — The NBA great Bill Russell has died at age 88. His family said on social media that Russell died on Sunday. The statement did not give the cause of death, but Russell was not well enough to present the NBA Finals MVP trophy in June due to a long illness. Russell anchored a Boston Celtics dynasty that won 11 titles in 13 years. His last two were as the first Black head coach in any major U.S. sport. Russell was a Hall of Famer, five-time MVP and 12-time All-Star. He won with defense and rebounding and waged battles with Wilt Chamberlain. Russell also marched for civil rights with Martin Luther King Jr. and stood with boxer Muhammad Ali when he refused military induction.BOSTON (AP) — Bill Russell, the NBA great who anchored a Boston Celtics dynasty that won 11 championships in 13 years — the last two as the first Black head coach in any major U.S. sport — and marched for civil rights with Martin Luther King Jr., died Sunday. He was 88.His family posted the news on social media, saying Russell died with his wife, Jeannine, by his side. The statement did not give the cause of death, but Russell was not well enough to present the NBA Finals MVP trophy in June due to a long illness."Bill's wife, Jeannine, and his many friends and family thank you for keeping Bill in your prayers. Perhaps you'll relive one or two of the golden moments he gave us, or recall his trademark laugh as he delighted in explaining the real story behind how those moments unfolded," the family statement said. "And we hope each of us can find a new way to act or speak up with Bill's uncompromising, dignified and always constructive commitment to principle. That would be one last, and lasting, win for our beloved #6."NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement that Russell was "the greatest champion in all of team sports.""Bill stood for something much bigger than sports: the values of equality, respect and inclusion that he stamped into the DNA of our league. At the height of his athletic career, Bill advocated vigorously for civil rights and social justice, a legacy he passed down to generations of NBA players who followed in his footsteps," Silver said. "Through the taunts, threats and unthinkable adversity, Bill rose above it all and remained true to his belief that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity.A Hall of Famer, five-time Most Valuable Player and 12-time All-Star, Russell in 1980 was voted the greatest player in the NBA history by basketball writers. He remains the sport's most prolific winner as a player and an archetype of selflessness who won with defense and rebounding while leaving the scoring to others. Often, that meant Wilt Chamberlain, the only player of the era who was a worthy rival for Russell.But Russell dominated in the only stat he cared about: 11 championships to two.The native of Louisiana also left a lasting mark as a Black athlete in a city — and country — where race is often a flash point. He was at the March on Washington in 1963, when King gave his "I Have a Dream" speech, and he backed Muhammad Ali when the boxer was pilloried for refusing induction into the military draft."To be the greatest champion in your sport, to revolutionize the way the game is played, and to be a societal leader all at once seems unthinkable, but that is who Bill Russell was," the Boston Celtics said in a statement.In 2011, President Barack Obama awarded Russell the Medal of Freedom alongside Congressman John Lewis, billionaire investor Warren Buffett, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and baseball great Stan Musial."Bill Russell, the man, is someone who stood up for the rights and dignity of all men," Obama said at the ceremony. "He marched with King; he stood by Ali. When a restaurant refused to serve the Black Celtics, he refused to play in the scheduled game. He endured insults and vandalism, but he kept on focusing on making the teammates who he loved better players and made possible the success of so many who would follow."Russell said that when he was growing up in the segregated South and later California his parents instilled in him the calm confidence that allowed him to brush off racist taunts."Years later, people asked me what I had to go through," Russell said in 2008. "Unfortunately, or fortunately, I've never been through anything. From my first moment of being alive was the notion that my mother and father loved me." It was Russell's mother who would tell him to disregard comments from those who might see him playing in the yard."Whatever they say, good or bad, they don't know you," he recalled her saying. "They're wrestling with their own demons."But it was Jackie Robinson who gave Russell a road map for dealing with racism in his sport: "Jackie was a hero to us. He always conducted himself as a man. He showed me the way to be a man in professional sports."The feeling was mutual, Russell learned, when Robinson's widow, Rachel, called and asked him to be a pallbearer at her husband's funeral in 1972."She hung the phone up and I asked myself, 'How do you get to be a hero to Jackie Robinson?'" Russell said. "I was so flattered."William Felton Russell was born on Feb. 12, 1934, in Monroe, Louisiana. He was a child when his family moved to the West Coast, and he went to high school in Oakland, California, and then the University of San Francisco. He led the Dons to NCAA championships in 1955 and 1956 and won a gold medal in 1956 at the Melbourne Olympics in Australia.Celtics coach and general manager Red Auerbach so coveted Russell that he worked out a trade with the St. Louis Hawks for the second pick in the draft. He promised the Rochester Royals, who owned the No. 1 pick, a lucrative visit by the Ice Capades, which were also run by Celtics owner Walter Brown.Still, Russell arrived in Boston to complaints that he wasn't that good. "People said it was a wasted draft choice, wasted money," he recalled. "They said, 'He's no good. All he can do is block shots and rebound.' And Red said, 'That's enough.'"The Celtics also picked up Tommy Heinsohn and K.C. Jones, Russell's college teammate, in the same draft. Although Russell joined the team late because he was leading the U.S. to the Olympic gold, Boston finished the regular season with the league's best record.The Celtics won the NBA championship — their first of 17 — in a double-overtime seventh game against Bob Pettit's St. Louis Hawks. Russell won his first MVP award the next season, but the Hawks won the title in a finals rematch. The Celtics won it all again in 1959, starting an unprecedented string of eight consecutive NBA crowns.A 6-foot-10 center, Russell never averaged more than 18.9 points during his 13 seasons, each year averaging more rebounds per game than points. For 10 seasons he averaged more than 20 rebounds. He once had 51 rebounds in a game; Chamberlain holds the record with 55.Auerbach retired after winning the 1966 title, and Russell became the player-coach — the first Black head coach in NBA history, and almost a decade before Frank Robinson took over baseball's Cleveland Indians. Boston finished with the second-best regular-season record in the NBA, and its title streak ended with a loss to Chamberlain and the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Division finals.Russell led the Celtics back to titles in 1968 and '69, each time winning seven-game playoff series against Chamberlain. Russell retired after the '69 finals, returning for a relatively successful — but unfulfilling — four-year stint as coach and GM of the Seattle SuperSonics and a less fruitful half season as coach of the Sacramento Kings.Russell's No. 6 jersey was retired by the Celtics in 1972. He earned spots on the NBA's 25th anniversary all-time team in 1970, 35th anniversary team in 1980 and 75th anniversary team. In 1996, he was hailed as one of the NBA's 50 greatest players.In 2009, the MVP trophy of the NBA Finals was named in his honor — even though Russell never won himself, because it wasn't awarded for the first time until 1969. Russell, however, traditionally presented the trophy for many years, the last time in 2019 to Kawhi Leonard; Russell was not there in 2020 because of the NBA bubble nor in 2021 due to COVID-19 concerns.In 2013, a statue was unveiled on Boston's City Hall Plaza of Russell surrounded by blocks of granite with quotes on leadership and character. Russell was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1975 but did not attend the ceremony, saying he should not have been the first African American elected. (Chuck Cooper, the NBA's first Black player, was his choice.)In 2019, Russell accepted his Hall of Fame ring in a private gathering. "I felt others before me should have had that honor," he tweeted. "Good to see progress."Silver said he "often called (Russell) basketball's Babe Ruth for how he transcended time.""Bill was the ultimate winner and consummate teammate, and his influence on the NBA will be felt forever," Silver added. "We send our deepest condolences to his wife, Jeannine, his family and his many friends."His family said that arrangements for Russell's memorial service will be announced in the coming days.