GREAT BEND – The Hays Eagles Senior American
Legion baseball team overcame a three-run first inning deficit and beat the Great
Bend Chiefs 7-4 Wednesday to win the American Legion AAA Zone 3 Tournament at Lawson-Biggs Field.

The Eagles (19-4) have won 12-straight and advance to next week’s state American Legion tournament in Pittsburg.

The third inning proved to be the decisive
inning. The Eagles (19-4) scored four in the frame and never trailed again. Ben
Krannawitter was hit by a pitch to start the inning. He scored on a Brady
Kreutzer double. Garrett Wellbrock drew a four-pitch walk and later scored the tying
run on a Remington Cox two-out single to left. Jack Fields then followed with a
double to left-center which scored courtesy runner Conner Dreiling with the
go-ahead run. 

“Once we got up there, I felt like they kind of
settled down and started playing more of our game” said coach Tanner Willhoft. “A
little bit nervous to start it out but when you get in a series clinching game
like that it is one of those things.”

Carson Spray would drive in Brady Kreutzer with a
sacrifice fly in the fourth to push the Eagles lead to 6-3. They would add another
run in fifth when Ben Krannawitter reached on a two-out error scoring Fields
who singled to start the inning.

Great Bend (17-9), who scored two in the first then held on to knock off Newton 2-1 in an elimination game earlier in the day, took advantage of two walks and
hit batter to load the bases with no outs in the sixth. They scored a run on a
passed ball but Dalton Dale got a strikeout and pop up to end the threat. The
Chiefs got two on in the seventh but a ground out and strikeout ended the game.

Blake Schmidt (5-0) walked two and gave up three
hits and three runs in the first but followed with four scoreless innings and
picked up the win. Schmidt went five innings and allowed four runs (three
earned) on three hits with seven walks, two hit batters and two strikeouts.

“I think Blake really settled in” said Willhoft. “For
somebody who’s a younger kid, comes back, tough spot to come in, could have
done way worse than what he did.”

Dalton Dale allowed one hit with two strikeouts
and two walks and got the final six outs to close out the game.

Brady Kreutzer, Garrett Wellbrock, Remington Cox and
Jack Fields all had two of the Eagles nine hits. Cox, Fields and Kreutzer all
hit doubles.

The Eagles will now play in the AA/AAA American
Legion State Tournament which begins Wednesday in Pittsburg.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626957930788.jpeg" alt="Hays Eagles win American Legion AAA Zone 3 Tournament in Great Bend" />
 <figcaption>Hays Eagles win American Legion AAA Zone 3 Tournament in Great Bend</figcaption>
 </figure>GREAT BEND – The Hays Eagles Senior American
Legion baseball team overcame a three-run first inning deficit and beat the Great
Bend Chiefs 7-4 Wednesday to win the American Legion AAA Zone 3 Tournament at Lawson-Biggs Field.The Eagles (19-4) have won 12-straight and advance to next week’s state American Legion tournament in Pittsburg.The third inning proved to be the decisive
inning. The Eagles (19-4) scored four in the frame and never trailed again. Ben
Krannawitter was hit by a pitch to start the inning. He scored on a Brady
Kreutzer double. Garrett Wellbrock drew a four-pitch walk and later scored the tying
run on a Remington Cox two-out single to left. Jack Fields then followed with a
double to left-center which scored courtesy runner Conner Dreiling with the
go-ahead run. “Once we got up there, I felt like they kind of
settled down and started playing more of our game” said coach Tanner Willhoft. “A
little bit nervous to start it out but when you get in a series clinching game
like that it is one of those things.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626961541174.png" alt="Willhoft" />
 <figcaption>Willhoft</figcaption>
 </figure>Carson Spray would drive in Brady Kreutzer with a
sacrifice fly in the fourth to push the Eagles lead to 6-3. They would add another
run in fifth when Ben Krannawitter reached on a two-out error scoring Fields
who singled to start the inning.Great Bend (17-9), who scored two in the first then held on to knock off Newton 2-1 in an elimination game earlier in the day, took advantage of two walks and
hit batter to load the bases with no outs in the sixth. They scored a run on a
passed ball but Dalton Dale got a strikeout and pop up to end the threat. The
Chiefs got two on in the seventh but a ground out and strikeout ended the game.Blake Schmidt (5-0) walked two and gave up three
hits and three runs in the first but followed with four scoreless innings and
picked up the win. Schmidt went five innings and allowed four runs (three
earned) on three hits with seven walks, two hit batters and two strikeouts.“I think Blake really settled in” said Willhoft. “For
somebody who’s a younger kid, comes back, tough spot to come in, could have
done way worse than what he did.”Dalton Dale allowed one hit with two strikeouts
and two walks and got the final six outs to close out the game.Brady Kreutzer, Garrett Wellbrock, Remington Cox and
Jack Fields all had two of the Eagles nine hits. Cox, Fields and Kreutzer all
hit doubles.The Eagles will now play in the AA/AAA American
Legion State Tournament which begins Wednesday in Pittsburg.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626961622766.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

⚾ Senior Legion rallies past Great Bend to win zone tourney title

HAYS – The Hays Larks ran their win streak to 14 games Wednesday
night as they completed a four-game sweep of the Colorado Roughriders with a
12-2 run-rule victory in eight innings at Larks. Park.

The Hays (26-4, 14-2 RMBL) offense was held in check through
the first three innings but their bats would come alive in the fourth as they
outscored the Roughriders 10-0 over the next five innings for the run-rule victory.

Trailing 2-0 Grant Schmidt led off the bottom of the fourth
inning with his seventh homerun of the season cutting the deficit in half at
2-1. Four hitters later, with the bases loaded, Cade Brown tied the game at two
with a sacrifice fly.

Hays took the lead in the bottom of the fifth inning as they
took advantage of three straight hit-by-pitches that loaded the bases. They
took the 3-2 lead on a wild pitch and then Cam Pehrson singled in a run putting
Hays up 4-2. A Brady Evans ground out put Hays up 5-2.

Leading by three runs heading into the bottom of the eighth
inning the Larks sent 10 men to the plate as they scored seven runs for the run-rule
victory.

After scoring their sixth run of the game on a wild pitch
Tyler Palmer hit his seventh homerun of the summer, a three-run blast, putting
Hays up 9-2.

With the bases loaded again Perhson drove in two more runs
with a double to left field giving Hays an 11-2 lead. Evans followed that up
with a triple that brought in the 12th run of the game for Hays giving the Larks the 12-2 run-rule victory in eight innings.

Tyler Palmer and Cam Pehrson drove in three runs each and
Grant Schmidt and Palmer Hutchison scored three times each.

Hunter Parker improved to 3-0 on the year with the win. He
allowed two runs on six hits over five innings. He struckout four with a pair
of walks.

The 14 straight wins in the most in the last 25 years.

Hays has Thursday off before hosting the Denver Cougars for
the first of three games Friday night.

HAYS – The Hays Larks ran their win streak to 14 games Wednesday
night as they completed a four-game sweep of the Colorado Roughriders with a
12-2 run-rule victory in eight innings at Larks. Park.The Hays (26-4, 14-2 RMBL) offense was held in check through
the first three innings but their bats would come alive in the fourth as they
outscored the Roughriders 10-0 over the next five innings for the run-rule victory.Trailing 2-0 Grant Schmidt led off the bottom of the fourth
inning with his seventh homerun of the season cutting the deficit in half at
2-1. Four hitters later, with the bases loaded, Cade Brown tied the game at two
with a sacrifice fly.Hays took the lead in the bottom of the fifth inning as they
took advantage of three straight hit-by-pitches that loaded the bases. They
took the 3-2 lead on a wild pitch and then Cam Pehrson singled in a run putting
Hays up 4-2. A Brady Evans ground out put Hays up 5-2.Leading by three runs heading into the bottom of the eighth
inning the Larks sent 10 men to the plate as they scored seven runs for the run-rule
victory.After scoring their sixth run of the game on a wild pitch
Tyler Palmer hit his seventh homerun of the summer, a three-run blast, putting
Hays up 9-2.With the bases loaded again Perhson drove in two more runs
with a double to left field giving Hays an 11-2 lead. Evans followed that up
with a triple that brought in the 12th run of the game for Hays giving the Larks the 12-2 run-rule victory in eight innings.Tyler Palmer and Cam Pehrson drove in three runs each and
Grant Schmidt and Palmer Hutchison scored three times each.Hunter Parker improved to 3-0 on the year with the win. He
allowed two runs on six hits over five innings. He struckout four with a pair
of walks.The 14 straight wins in the most in the last 25 years.Hays has Thursday off before hosting the Denver Cougars for
the first of three games Friday night.

⚾ Larks run win streak to 14 straight with win over Colorado Roughriders

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Brad Keller is doing his part to make sure the Kansas City Royals withstand the injuries that have decimated their starting rotation.

Keller earned his first win in over six weeks Wednesday to help the Royals complete a season sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers with a 6-3 victory.

His solid performance came one day after Mike Minor’s strong outing in a 5-2 triumph at Milwaukee. The Royals need other starters to step up after Danny Duffy and Brady Singer both went on the injured list Tuesday.

“Mikey going out there and giving a strong six innings yesterday, I just wanted to follow suit,” Keller said. “Honestly, that was my goal. I feel like whenever we go on good streaks, the starters are usually rolling.”

Nicky Lopez hit a tiebreaking two-run double in the sixth inning and Jorge Soler added a towering homer in the eighth.

The Brewers lead the NL Central and the Royals are last in the AL Central, yet Kansas City won all four meetings this year. The Royals swept a two-game series in Kansas City on May 18-19.

“We just didn’t show up and take care of business the way we wanted to,” Brewers second baseman Kolten Wong said. “But you’ve got to tip your cap to the Royals for coming in and playing good ball and just taking it to us.”

On an afternoon when the Brewers made a pair of errors that caused Kansas City’s first five runs to be unearned, two of the loudest ovations at the stadium came when the scoreboard showed video clips of Milwaukee Bucks players asking fans to get loud.

The Bucks won their first NBA championship since 1971 on Tuesday night, beating the Phoenix Suns in Game 6 in the downtown arena about three miles away from American Family Field. About a dozen Brewers players attended the Bucks’ title-clinching victory Tuesday night.

Brewers pitcher Eric Lauer dismissed the notion that played a factor in their team's sluggish performance Wednesday.

“I think it’s an easy thing to equate that,” Lauer said. “But everybody here, we’re all professionals. This is our job. This is what we do. I don’t think it has anything to do with it. It’s just circumstance; it happened to look that way.”

Lauer went to the Bucks’ clincher before starting Wednesday’s game. He struck out six and allowed two unearned runs in five innings.

Keller (7-9) struck out six and allowed three runs and two walks in 6.2 innings to pick up a win for the first time since June 4. Keller had gone 0-5 with two no-decisions over his previous seven starts.

But he has allowed only six runs over 20.2 innings in three July appearances. Keller credits his improvement to mechanical adjustments.

“I feel like my slider’s been better,” Keller said. “My fastball command has been better. I feel like today, especially, I’ve been able to pitch in more, which has always been one of my strengths in the previous few years. I feel like that’s one thing I kind of got away from.”

Scott Barlow retired the side in order in the ninth for his fifth save in eight opportunities.

Kansas City couldn’t get a single runner on base in the first three innings, but a wild throw to first by Brewers third baseman Luis Urías allowed Whit Merrifield to reach second to start the fourth. Andrew Benintendi doubled home Merrifield with two outs and scored on Hunter Dozier’s bloop hit.

The Brewers pulled ahead with a three-run rally in the fifth that included an RBI double from Christian Yelich.

Kansas City regained the lead for good by scoring three runs off Brent Suter (9-5) in the sixth.

The Royals had a runner at first with one out when first baseman Jace Peterson couldn’t handle a grounder from Benintendi. Dozier followed Peterson’s error by delivering a single that made it 3-all.

With the bases loaded and two outs, Lopez hit a double to right that put the Royals back in front.

“We gave them runs by giving them extra outs, and they did something with those extra outs,” Brewers manager Craig Counsell said. “And that was the story of the game.”

Royals OF Michael A. Taylor left in the sixth inning with discomfort in his left wrist.

Royals: Take Thursday off before hosting Detroit on Friday to start a three-game series. LHP Kris Bubic (2-4, 5.03 ERA) will start for the Royals on Friday.

Brewers: Have Thursday off before beginning a three-game home series with the AL Central-leading Chicago White Sox on Friday. Probable starters are RHP Lucas Giolito (8-6, 3.90) for the White Sox and RHP Freddy Peralta (7-3, 2.39) for the Brewers.

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Brad Keller is doing his part to make sure the Kansas City Royals withstand the injuries that have decimated their starting rotation.Keller earned his first win in over six weeks Wednesday to help the Royals complete a season sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers with a 6-3 victory.His solid performance came one day after Mike Minor’s strong outing in a 5-2 triumph at Milwaukee. The Royals need other starters to step up after Danny Duffy and Brady Singer both went on the injured list Tuesday.“Mikey going out there and giving a strong six innings yesterday, I just wanted to follow suit,” Keller said. “Honestly, that was my goal. I feel like whenever we go on good streaks, the starters are usually rolling.”Nicky Lopez hit a tiebreaking two-run double in the sixth inning and Jorge Soler added a towering homer in the eighth.The Brewers lead the NL Central and the Royals are last in the AL Central, yet Kansas City won all four meetings this year. The Royals swept a two-game series in Kansas City on May 18-19.“We just didn’t show up and take care of business the way we wanted to,” Brewers second baseman Kolten Wong said. “But you’ve got to tip your cap to the Royals for coming in and playing good ball and just taking it to us.”On an afternoon when the Brewers made a pair of errors that caused Kansas City’s first five runs to be unearned, two of the loudest ovations at the stadium came when the scoreboard showed video clips of Milwaukee Bucks players asking fans to get loud.The Bucks won their first NBA championship since 1971 on Tuesday night, beating the Phoenix Suns in Game 6 in the downtown arena about three miles away from American Family Field. About a dozen Brewers players attended the Bucks’ title-clinching victory Tuesday night.Brewers pitcher Eric Lauer dismissed the notion that played a factor in their team's sluggish performance Wednesday.“I think it’s an easy thing to equate that,” Lauer said. “But everybody here, we’re all professionals. This is our job. This is what we do. I don’t think it has anything to do with it. It’s just circumstance; it happened to look that way.”Lauer went to the Bucks’ clincher before starting Wednesday’s game. He struck out six and allowed two unearned runs in five innings.Keller (7-9) struck out six and allowed three runs and two walks in 6.2 innings to pick up a win for the first time since June 4. Keller had gone 0-5 with two no-decisions over his previous seven starts.But he has allowed only six runs over 20.2 innings in three July appearances. Keller credits his improvement to mechanical adjustments.“I feel like my slider’s been better,” Keller said. “My fastball command has been better. I feel like today, especially, I’ve been able to pitch in more, which has always been one of my strengths in the previous few years. I feel like that’s one thing I kind of got away from.”Scott Barlow retired the side in order in the ninth for his fifth save in eight opportunities.Kansas City couldn’t get a single runner on base in the first three innings, but a wild throw to first by Brewers third baseman Luis Urías allowed Whit Merrifield to reach second to start the fourth. Andrew Benintendi doubled home Merrifield with two outs and scored on Hunter Dozier’s bloop hit.The Brewers pulled ahead with a three-run rally in the fifth that included an RBI double from Christian Yelich.Kansas City regained the lead for good by scoring three runs off Brent Suter (9-5) in the sixth.The Royals had a runner at first with one out when first baseman Jace Peterson couldn’t handle a grounder from Benintendi. Dozier followed Peterson’s error by delivering a single that made it 3-all.With the bases loaded and two outs, Lopez hit a double to right that put the Royals back in front.“We gave them runs by giving them extra outs, and they did something with those extra outs,” Brewers manager Craig Counsell said. “And that was the story of the game.”TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals OF Michael A. Taylor left in the sixth inning with discomfort in his left wrist.UP NEXTRoyals: Take Thursday off before hosting Detroit on Friday to start a three-game series. LHP Kris Bubic (2-4, 5.03 ERA) will start for the Royals on Friday.Brewers: Have Thursday off before beginning a three-game home series with the AL Central-leading Chicago White Sox on Friday. Probable starters are RHP Lucas Giolito (8-6, 3.90) for the White Sox and RHP Freddy Peralta (7-3, 2.39) for the Brewers.

⚾ Keller leads Royals to season sweep of first-place Brewers with win

HAYS – Jake Fitzgibbons struck
out 13 batters in his start against the Fort Collins Foxes. He outdid that on
Tuesday. The Tennessee product struck out 15 while allowing only one hit in the
Hays Larks 5-0 win over the Colorado Rough Riders in game two of their doubleheader
Tuesday at Larks Park. The Larks rallied to win game one 10-5 and with the
sweep clinched their second straight Rocky Mountain Baseball League title in
their second season in the league.

Fitzgibbons (3-0) walked two
and hit a batter and took a no-hitter into the seventh where it was broken up
on Noah Ghiselli’s one-out single.

It’s the Larks’ second
complete game shutout in a little over a week. Hunter Parker pitched a
nine-inning complete game shutout last Tuesday against Fort Collins. 

Wyatt Divis, who had his
17-game hit streaked snapped in game one, had two hits and drove in their first
run with a first inning double. Cortland Lawson also doubled and Sam Crowell
homered.

The Larks had to rally from an
early 4-1 deficit in the first game. Down 4-2, they scored four runs in the
third then added two in the fourth before getting a couple of insurance runs in
the sixth. Brady Evans reached on an error which scored two to give the Larks
the lead for good in the third. Evans finished with three hits and four RBIs.

Luuk ter Beek (3-1) allowed
four earned runs on seven hits with four walks and no strikeouts but picks up
the win. Jose Velazquez pitched three scoreless innings of relief for his third
save.

UP NEXT 
 
The Larks and Rough Riders wrap up the four-game RMBL series Wednesday night at
7:00 p.m. You can hear the game on KAYS (1400-AM, 94.3-FM).

HAYS – Jake Fitzgibbons struck
out 13 batters in his start against the Fort Collins Foxes. He outdid that on
Tuesday. The Tennessee product struck out 15 while allowing only one hit in the
Hays Larks 5-0 win over the Colorado Rough Riders in game two of their doubleheader
Tuesday at Larks Park. The Larks rallied to win game one 10-5 and with the
sweep clinched their second straight Rocky Mountain Baseball League title in
their second season in the league.Fitzgibbons (3-0) walked two
and hit a batter and took a no-hitter into the seventh where it was broken up
on Noah Ghiselli’s one-out single.It’s the Larks’ second
complete game shutout in a little over a week. Hunter Parker pitched a
nine-inning complete game shutout last Tuesday against Fort Collins. Wyatt Divis, who had his
17-game hit streaked snapped in game one, had two hits and drove in their first
run with a first inning double. Cortland Lawson also doubled and Sam Crowell
homered.The Larks had to rally from an
early 4-1 deficit in the first game. Down 4-2, they scored four runs in the
third then added two in the fourth before getting a couple of insurance runs in
the sixth. Brady Evans reached on an error which scored two to give the Larks
the lead for good in the third. Evans finished with three hits and four RBIs.Luuk ter Beek (3-1) allowed
four earned runs on seven hits with four walks and no strikeouts but picks up
the win. Jose Velazquez pitched three scoreless innings of relief for his third
save.UP NEXT 
 
The Larks and Rough Riders wrap up the four-game RMBL series Wednesday night at
7:00 p.m. You can hear the game on KAYS (1400-AM, 94.3-FM).

⚾ Larks sweep Rough Riders, clinch RMBL crown

GREAT BEND – Garrett Wellbrock
went the distance on the mound and the Hays Eagles Senior American Legion scored
two runs in bottom of the sixth inning to edge the Great Bend Chiefs 3-1 in the Zone 3 Tournament at Lawson-Biggs Field on the Barton Community College
campus Tuesday night. The Eagles (18-4) won their 11th straight and advanced to
Wednesday night’s finals.

After Great Bend (16-8) tied the
game with a run in the top of the sixth, the Eagles answered with two in the bottom
of the inning. Carson Spray and Remington both singled to start the decisive frame.
Jack Fields then drew a walk to load the bases. Following a force out at the
plate on a grounder to first, Gage Porter was hit by a pitch to put the
Eagles ahead for good. Ben Krannawitter followed with a bases-loaded walk to
drive in the second run.

Brad Beck led off the seventh with a bunt single but Wellbrock struck out the next three batters to end the game.

Porter scored the Eagles first
run in the fifth when Wellbrock reached on a throwing error.
Great Bend took advantage of on of Hays' four errors and scored on a two-out single in the top
of the sixth.

Wellbrock (6-2) scattered five
hits and didn’t allow an earned run while striking out eight and walking only
one in the complete game victory.

Great Bend rallied after blowing an 8-0 lead to beat Newton (11-12) 12-11 in
Tuesday’s first game. The Chiefs scored eight in the second but the Knights
rallied with two in the third, three in the fourth, four in the fifth and two
in the sixth to take an 11-8 lead. The Chiefs scored two in the bottom of the
sixth then scored twice in the bottom of the seventh to win it. MJ Aylward’s
single to center scored Stefan Spray with the game winner.

Great Bend and Newton play an
elimination game at 5:00 p.m. Wednesday. The winner then takes on Hays around 7:30
p.m.

GREAT BEND – Garrett Wellbrock
went the distance on the mound and the Hays Eagles Senior American Legion scored
two runs in bottom of the sixth inning to edge the Great Bend Chiefs 3-1 in the Zone 3 Tournament at Lawson-Biggs Field on the Barton Community College
campus Tuesday night. The Eagles (18-4) won their 11th straight and advanced to
Wednesday night’s finals.After Great Bend (16-8) tied the
game with a run in the top of the sixth, the Eagles answered with two in the bottom
of the inning. Carson Spray and Remington both singled to start the decisive frame.
Jack Fields then drew a walk to load the bases. Following a force out at the
plate on a grounder to first, Gage Porter was hit by a pitch to put the
Eagles ahead for good. Ben Krannawitter followed with a bases-loaded walk to
drive in the second run.Brad Beck led off the seventh with a bunt single but Wellbrock struck out the next three batters to end the game.Porter scored the Eagles first
run in the fifth when Wellbrock reached on a throwing error.
Great Bend took advantage of on of Hays' four errors and scored on a two-out single in the top
of the sixth.Wellbrock (6-2) scattered five
hits and didn’t allow an earned run while striking out eight and walking only
one in the complete game victory.CHIEFS RALLYGreat Bend rallied after blowing an 8-0 lead to beat Newton (11-12) 12-11 in
Tuesday’s first game. The Chiefs scored eight in the second but the Knights
rallied with two in the third, three in the fourth, four in the fifth and two
in the sixth to take an 11-8 lead. The Chiefs scored two in the bottom of the
sixth then scored twice in the bottom of the seventh to win it. MJ Aylward’s
single to center scored Stefan Spray with the game winner.UP NEXTGreat Bend and Newton play an
elimination game at 5:00 p.m. Wednesday. The winner then takes on Hays around 7:30
p.m.

⚾ Wellbrock complete game advances Eagles to Zone finals

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Ryan O’Hearn and Jorge Soler homered as the Kansas City Royals beat the Milwaukee Brewers 5-2 Tuesday in a game that began early to give local fans a chance to watch their team in the NBA Finals.

The start time was moved up four hours at American Family Field. The ballpark is about three miles from the downtown Fiserv Forum, where as many as 65,000 people were expected to watch Game 6 from outdoor plazas as the Milwaukee Bucks attempt to beat the Phoenix Suns for their first championship since 1971.

Some fans came to the ballpark with signs rooting for both the Brewers and Bucks.

“Hopefully we come out tomorrow after a Bucks win and tie the series,” said Brewers starter Brett Anderson, who gave up two runs and three hits over five innings in his first start of the second half.

Mike Minor (7-8) allowed one earned run and five hits in six innings, snapping a personal four-start losing streak. He struck out five and walked one.

“Right now it's all about the starting pitching,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “He was really good and really, there in the second, we just didn't help him. We had two plays we didn't make, and it cost him two runs and about 20 pitches."

“He did a great job of keeping us there, not letting it become too much and giving the offense a chance to do something,” he said.

Greg Holland got his sixth save as the Royals improved to 3-0 against Milwaukee in 2021.

“I think guys are still out there playing with 100% effort, no matter what the standings say,” Minor said. “No matter what the wins or losses say, there are a bunch of guys in the clubhouse who don't really care. We know we haven't played well this season, but we're not going to give up.”

O'Hearn hit a tiebreaking, two-run homer in the seventh off Hunter Strickland (0-1). It was his seventh home run of the season.

Soler’s eighth homer, a solo drive in the fourth, tied it at 2.

Andrew Benintendi had a sacrifice fly in the Royals first.

Manny Pina’s two-run single in the second put Milwaukee up 2-1.

“There wasn’t much happening against (Minor),” manager Craig Counsell said. “Nothing of significance, multiple guys on, things like that. We probably made some innings too easy on him.”

Royals: Starting pitchers Danny Duffy and Brady Singer were put on the injured list. Duffy, whose 2.31 ERA and 65 strikeouts in 61 innings has been one of the bright spots for a rotation that owns the second-worst ERA in MLB, has a strained flexor in his left elbow and landed on the IL for the second time this season. Singer is out because of right shoulder fatigue after allowing seven runs in two innings his last time out.

“We knew at some point we were going to have to take a break with our young pitchers, for sure,” Matheny said. “Instead of limiting them from the beginning, kind of let’s go, let’s pitch, let’s just see how they feel, and if at any point we need to take a pause, we do it. And this isn’t necessarily a shutdown as much as let’s just make sure that he’s feeling how he should be feeling and watch closely, use the medical team, use sports science, and figure out when it would be best to get him back in there.”

Brewers: RHP Brad Boxberger played catch Tuesday but is still considered day-to-day after experiencing stiffness in his shoulder during his last outing, Saturday in Cincinnati. Boxberger’s issue popped up the same day Milwaukee put reliever Devin Williams on the IL.

The Brewers and Royals wrap up their two-game set Wednesday afternoon with Milwaukee LHP Eric Lauer (3-4, 3.83 ERA) opposing RHP Brad Keller (6-9, 5.97). Lauer was originally slated to start Tuesday but was given an extra day because of a fingernail issue that had been bothering him after his last start.

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Ryan O’Hearn and Jorge Soler homered as the Kansas City Royals beat the Milwaukee Brewers 5-2 Tuesday in a game that began early to give local fans a chance to watch their team in the NBA Finals.The start time was moved up four hours at American Family Field. The ballpark is about three miles from the downtown Fiserv Forum, where as many as 65,000 people were expected to watch Game 6 from outdoor plazas as the Milwaukee Bucks attempt to beat the Phoenix Suns for their first championship since 1971.Some fans came to the ballpark with signs rooting for both the Brewers and Bucks.“Hopefully we come out tomorrow after a Bucks win and tie the series,” said Brewers starter Brett Anderson, who gave up two runs and three hits over five innings in his first start of the second half.Mike Minor (7-8) allowed one earned run and five hits in six innings, snapping a personal four-start losing streak. He struck out five and walked one.“Right now it's all about the starting pitching,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “He was really good and really, there in the second, we just didn't help him. We had two plays we didn't make, and it cost him two runs and about 20 pitches."“He did a great job of keeping us there, not letting it become too much and giving the offense a chance to do something,” he said.Greg Holland got his sixth save as the Royals improved to 3-0 against Milwaukee in 2021.“I think guys are still out there playing with 100% effort, no matter what the standings say,” Minor said. “No matter what the wins or losses say, there are a bunch of guys in the clubhouse who don't really care. We know we haven't played well this season, but we're not going to give up.”O'Hearn hit a tiebreaking, two-run homer in the seventh off Hunter Strickland (0-1). It was his seventh home run of the season.Soler’s eighth homer, a solo drive in the fourth, tied it at 2.Andrew Benintendi had a sacrifice fly in the Royals first.Manny Pina’s two-run single in the second put Milwaukee up 2-1.“There wasn’t much happening against (Minor),” manager Craig Counsell said. “Nothing of significance, multiple guys on, things like that. We probably made some innings too easy on him.”TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: Starting pitchers Danny Duffy and Brady Singer were put on the injured list. Duffy, whose 2.31 ERA and 65 strikeouts in 61 innings has been one of the bright spots for a rotation that owns the second-worst ERA in MLB, has a strained flexor in his left elbow and landed on the IL for the second time this season. Singer is out because of right shoulder fatigue after allowing seven runs in two innings his last time out.“We knew at some point we were going to have to take a break with our young pitchers, for sure,” Matheny said. “Instead of limiting them from the beginning, kind of let’s go, let’s pitch, let’s just see how they feel, and if at any point we need to take a pause, we do it. And this isn’t necessarily a shutdown as much as let’s just make sure that he’s feeling how he should be feeling and watch closely, use the medical team, use sports science, and figure out when it would be best to get him back in there.”Brewers: RHP Brad Boxberger played catch Tuesday but is still considered day-to-day after experiencing stiffness in his shoulder during his last outing, Saturday in Cincinnati. Boxberger’s issue popped up the same day Milwaukee put reliever Devin Williams on the IL.UP NEXTThe Brewers and Royals wrap up their two-game set Wednesday afternoon with Milwaukee LHP Eric Lauer (3-4, 3.83 ERA) opposing RHP Brad Keller (6-9, 5.97). Lauer was originally slated to start Tuesday but was given an extra day because of a fingernail issue that had been bothering him after his last start.

⚾ O'Hearn's pinch-hit, go-ahead homer helps Royals to victory over Brewers

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Veteran defensive end Alex Okafor has signed a one-year deal to return to the Kansas City Chiefs, just days before the first players begin reporting for training camp.

The Chiefs did not disclose financial terms in announcing the deal Tuesday.

The 30-year-old Okafor has 30 sacks and 183 tackles in eight NFL seasons, including the past two with the Chiefs. He joined the club as a free agent from New Orleans in March 2019, signing a three-year, $18 million contract.

Okafor made an immediate impact in helping rebuild the Kansas City defense, recording five sacks and 21 combined tackles in 10 games. A torn pectoral muscle in Week 15 forced him to finish the season on injured reserve. He missed playing in the team's victory over San Francisco in Super Bowl LIV.

The veteran signed a restructured contract in August 2020 that reduced his salary cap figure for the upcoming season by $2 million and voided the final year of his original three-year deal.

A hamstring injury limited Okafor to 11 games last season. He finished with three sacks and 16 total tackles. He contributed in a backup role during the team's playoff run, picking up five total tackles in three postseason contests, including one stop against Tampa Bay in the team's 31-9 loss in Super Bowl LV.

Okafor expects to compete for a backup role behind anticipated starters Frank Clark and Chris Jones as the team's edge rushers. Competition at defensive end also includes veteran Taco Charlton, second-year pro Mike Danna and 2021 fourth-round draft pick Joshua Kaindoh.

Clark was recently charged in California with felony possession of an assault weapon stemming from a traffic stop in March. He faces another potential weapon charge following another traffic stop in California in June.

Chiefs players begin reporting to training camp at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph on Friday.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Veteran defensive end Alex Okafor has signed a one-year deal to return to the Kansas City Chiefs, just days before the first players begin reporting for training camp.The Chiefs did not disclose financial terms in announcing the deal Tuesday.The 30-year-old Okafor has 30 sacks and 183 tackles in eight NFL seasons, including the past two with the Chiefs. He joined the club as a free agent from New Orleans in March 2019, signing a three-year, $18 million contract.Okafor made an immediate impact in helping rebuild the Kansas City defense, recording five sacks and 21 combined tackles in 10 games. A torn pectoral muscle in Week 15 forced him to finish the season on injured reserve. He missed playing in the team's victory over San Francisco in Super Bowl LIV.The veteran signed a restructured contract in August 2020 that reduced his salary cap figure for the upcoming season by $2 million and voided the final year of his original three-year deal.A hamstring injury limited Okafor to 11 games last season. He finished with three sacks and 16 total tackles. He contributed in a backup role during the team's playoff run, picking up five total tackles in three postseason contests, including one stop against Tampa Bay in the team's 31-9 loss in Super Bowl LV.Okafor expects to compete for a backup role behind anticipated starters Frank Clark and Chris Jones as the team's edge rushers. Competition at defensive end also includes veteran Taco Charlton, second-year pro Mike Danna and 2021 fourth-round draft pick Joshua Kaindoh.Clark was recently charged in California with felony possession of an assault weapon stemming from a traffic stop in March. He faces another potential weapon charge following another traffic stop in California in June.Chiefs players begin reporting to training camp at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph on Friday.

🏈 Kansas City Chiefs re-sign DE Alex Okafor to 1-year deal

The Kansas City Royals' pitching staff took a hit Tuesday as two-fifths of its starting rotation was placed on the 10-day injured list.

The Royals placed Danny Duffy and Brady Singer on the IL. They were replaced on the active roster by reliever Tyler Zuber and infielder Ryan McBroom, who were recalled from Triple-A Omaha.

Duffy's move is retroactive to July 17, Singer's to July 18.

Duffy, who has been the Royals' best starter when healthy this season, is dealing with a left flexor strain, the same injury that landed him on the IL for more than a month previously in 2021. The left-hander is 4-3 with a 2.51 ERA, 65 strikeouts and a 1.21 WHIP over 61 innings spanning 13 games (12 starts) this season.

Singer, who has right shoulder fatigue, has struggled for most of his sophomore season. He is 3-7 with a 5.13 ERA, 92 strikeouts and a 1.55 WHIP in 19 games (all starts) and 87.2 innings.

Zuber was optioned June 6 to Omaha, where he is 1-1 with a 2.55 ERA and 22 strikeouts in 16 games (17.2 innings) this season. The right-hander was 0-2 with a 6.35 ERA and 16 strikeouts in 20 games (17 innings) with the Royals before his minor league assignment.

McBroom has appeared in five games for the Royals this season but has spent the rest of his time with the Storm Chasers. He is slashing .271/.341/.538 with 18 home runs and 49 RBIs for Omaha in 2021.

Mike Minor will start on the mound for the Royals when they open a two-game series at Milwaukee on Tuesday afternoon. The game was moved from Tuesday night because the Milwaukee Bucks could capture the NBA championship if they beat the visiting Phoenix Suns in Game 6 on Tuesday night. Royals-Brewers coverage begins at 2:30 p.m. on Bally Sports Kansas City.

The Kansas City Royals' pitching staff took a hit Tuesday as two-fifths of its starting rotation was placed on the 10-day injured list.The Royals placed Danny Duffy and Brady Singer on the IL. They were replaced on the active roster by reliever Tyler Zuber and infielder Ryan McBroom, who were recalled from Triple-A Omaha.Duffy's move is retroactive to July 17, Singer's to July 18.Duffy, who has been the Royals' best starter when healthy this season, is dealing with a left flexor strain, the same injury that landed him on the IL for more than a month previously in 2021. The left-hander is 4-3 with a 2.51 ERA, 65 strikeouts and a 1.21 WHIP over 61 innings spanning 13 games (12 starts) this season.Singer, who has right shoulder fatigue, has struggled for most of his sophomore season. He is 3-7 with a 5.13 ERA, 92 strikeouts and a 1.55 WHIP in 19 games (all starts) and 87.2 innings.Zuber was optioned June 6 to Omaha, where he is 1-1 with a 2.55 ERA and 22 strikeouts in 16 games (17.2 innings) this season. The right-hander was 0-2 with a 6.35 ERA and 16 strikeouts in 20 games (17 innings) with the Royals before his minor league assignment.McBroom has appeared in five games for the Royals this season but has spent the rest of his time with the Storm Chasers. He is slashing .271/.341/.538 with 18 home runs and 49 RBIs for Omaha in 2021.Mike Minor will start on the mound for the Royals when they open a two-game series at Milwaukee on Tuesday afternoon. The game was moved from Tuesday night because the Milwaukee Bucks could capture the NBA championship if they beat the visiting Phoenix Suns in Game 6 on Tuesday night. Royals-Brewers coverage begins at 2:30 p.m. on Bally Sports Kansas City.Associated Press

⚾ Royals place starters Duffy, Singer on 10-day IL

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Kansas City Royals announced tonight that they have signed 15 of their 21 selections in last week’s 2021 First-Year Player Draft, adding three more to the list tonight.

The most recent signees include right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Ben Kudrna&nbsp;(2nd&nbsp;round, 43rd&nbsp;overall), right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Shane Panzini&nbsp;(4th&nbsp;round/108th&nbsp;overall) and shortstop&nbsp;Ryan Cepero&nbsp;(8th&nbsp;round/229th&nbsp;overall).

Kudrna&nbsp;is a graduate of nearby Blue Valley Southwest High School (KS), where he was 9-1 with a 0.99 ERA during his senior season earning Gatorade State High School Player of the Year honors.&nbsp;Panzini&nbsp;posted a 9-0 mark with a 0.91 ERA as a senior at Red Bank Catholic High School (NJ), while recording a single-season record 115 strikeouts.&nbsp;Cepero, a native of Arecibo, PR, was selected out of the Carlos Beltrán Baseball Academy. He hit .357 in 10 games with the Trenton Thunder of the MLB Draft League.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Kansas City Royals announced tonight that they have signed 15 of their 21 selections in last week’s 2021 First-Year Player Draft, adding three more to the list tonight.The most recent signees include right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Ben Kudrna&nbsp;(2nd&nbsp;round, 43rd&nbsp;overall), right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Shane Panzini&nbsp;(4th&nbsp;round/108th&nbsp;overall) and shortstop&nbsp;Ryan Cepero&nbsp;(8th&nbsp;round/229th&nbsp;overall).Kudrna&nbsp;is a graduate of nearby Blue Valley Southwest High School (KS), where he was 9-1 with a 0.99 ERA during his senior season earning Gatorade State High School Player of the Year honors.&nbsp;Panzini&nbsp;posted a 9-0 mark with a 0.91 ERA as a senior at Red Bank Catholic High School (NJ), while recording a single-season record 115 strikeouts.&nbsp;Cepero, a native of Arecibo, PR, was selected out of the Carlos Beltrán Baseball Academy. He hit .357 in 10 games with the Trenton Thunder of the MLB Draft League.Kansas City Royals

⚾ Royals sign three more draft picks

HAYS – Wyatt Divis hit a
three-run homer and Leo Jiminian a grand slam to highlight the Hays Larks
10-run third inning as they cruised to a 12-2, seven inning run-rule victory
over the Colorado Rough Riders Monday night at Larks Park.

The Rough Riders (5-12, 4-10
RMBL) grabbed the early lead on a two-run home run from Hayden Luff in the top
of the first. The Larks (23-4, 11-2 RMBL) tied the game with two in the second
then blew it open in the third as they pushed their winning streak to 11 games.

Starting pitcher Cade Brown
(3-0) allowed only one hit over four innings after giving up the homer in the
first and picked up the win. The Oklahoma product struck out a season-high nine
and walked none. Wyatt Divis pitched the final two innings of relief and struck
out six.

Grant Schmidt tripled to
center to leadoff the second and scored the Larks first run on a wild pitch.
Cortland Lawson followed with a single to right and scored the tying run on
Palmer Hutchison’s sacrifice fly to center.

Zach Henry led off the
decisive third inning with a four-pitch walk. Matt Cavanagh singled to left
then Divis hit a line drive over the right field wall to give the Larks the
lead for good. Singles from Schmidt, Sam Crowell and a walk to Grant Lung set
the stage for Jiminian’s opposite field grand slam. Divis would drive in another
run with a single and Cortland Lawson added a sacrifice fly to round out the
scoring.

Divis and Jiminian both drove
in four runs, Divis, Schmidt and Jiminian all had two of the Larks 12 hits.

The Larks can clinch their
second straight Rocky Mountain Baseball League title in their second year in
the league with a doubleheader sweep of the Rough Riders on Tuesday. Monday's win dropped their Magic Number to two.

Leo Jiminian’s third inning
grand slam was the Larks fourth of the season. Dylan Dreiling, Grant Lung and
Sam Crowell have also homered with the bases loaded this season. Current Lark
Cam Pehrson hit the Larks only grand slam last season. Hays now has hit 11 grand slams over the last five seasons.

The Larks have won their last 11 games. It's matches an 11-game win streak they had in 2013. The Larks won 12 straight in 2019 and 2014 and 13 straight in 2003.

The Rough Riders have allowed their
opponents to score 10 or more runs in 10 of their 17 games this summer.

The Larks and Rough Riders
play two on Wednesday beginning at 5:30 p.m. The two teams close out the
four-game RMBL series with a single game Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. That game can
be hear on KAYS (1400-AM, 94.2-FM).

HAYS – Wyatt Divis hit a
three-run homer and Leo Jiminian a grand slam to highlight the Hays Larks
10-run third inning as they cruised to a 12-2, seven inning run-rule victory
over the Colorado Rough Riders Monday night at Larks Park.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1090610392&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=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-814667509/07-19-21-hays-larks-coach-interview" title="Frank Leo postgame vs. Colorado Rough Riders 071921" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Frank Leo postgame vs. Colorado Rough Riders 071921</a></div></div>The Rough Riders (5-12, 4-10
RMBL) grabbed the early lead on a two-run home run from Hayden Luff in the top
of the first. The Larks (23-4, 11-2 RMBL) tied the game with two in the second
then blew it open in the third as they pushed their winning streak to 11 games.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1090610422&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=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-814667509/07-19-21-hays-larks-vs-colorado-rough-riders-highlights" title="Hays Larks vs. Colorado Rough Riders Highlights 071921" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays Larks vs. Colorado Rough Riders Highlights 071921</a></div></div>Starting pitcher Cade Brown
(3-0) allowed only one hit over four innings after giving up the homer in the
first and picked up the win. The Oklahoma product struck out a season-high nine
and walked none. Wyatt Divis pitched the final two innings of relief and struck
out six.Grant Schmidt tripled to
center to leadoff the second and scored the Larks first run on a wild pitch.
Cortland Lawson followed with a single to right and scored the tying run on
Palmer Hutchison’s sacrifice fly to center.Zach Henry led off the
decisive third inning with a four-pitch walk. Matt Cavanagh singled to left
then Divis hit a line drive over the right field wall to give the Larks the
lead for good. Singles from Schmidt, Sam Crowell and a walk to Grant Lung set
the stage for Jiminian’s opposite field grand slam. Divis would drive in another
run with a single and Cortland Lawson added a sacrifice fly to round out the
scoring.Divis and Jiminian both drove
in four runs, Divis, Schmidt and Jiminian all had two of the Larks 12 hits.MAGIC NUMBER IS 2The Larks can clinch their
second straight Rocky Mountain Baseball League title in their second year in
the league with a doubleheader sweep of the Rough Riders on Tuesday. Monday's win dropped their Magic Number to two.SUMMER SLAMLeo Jiminian’s third inning
grand slam was the Larks fourth of the season. Dylan Dreiling, Grant Lung and
Sam Crowell have also homered with the bases loaded this season. Current Lark
Cam Pehrson hit the Larks only grand slam last season. Hays now has hit 11 grand slams over the last five seasons.11 IN-A-ROWThe Larks have won their last 11 games. It's matches an 11-game win streak they had in 2013. The Larks won 12 straight in 2019 and 2014 and 13 straight in 2003.GIVING UP RUNSThe Rough Riders have allowed their
opponents to score 10 or more runs in 10 of their 17 games this summer.UP NEXTThe Larks and Rough Riders
play two on Wednesday beginning at 5:30 p.m. The two teams close out the
four-game RMBL series with a single game Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. That game can
be hear on KAYS (1400-AM, 94.2-FM).

⚾ Big third inning lifts Larks to 11th-straight win

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs could have stood pat after their second consecutive AFC championship, trusting in the fact that Patrick Mahomes would be their quarterback, Andy Reid their coach, and they would remain contenders for the foreseeable future.

Instead, they tore most of their roster down to the studs and painstakingly pieced it back together.

They should have an entirely different offensive line from the mismatched bunch of backups that was manhandled by the Buccaneers in a Super Bowl fiasco. They should have a vastly improved defensive line, which should in turn help their dire performance in the red zone. And they have added speed to an already quick roster across the board.

“We have a lot of new faces,” Reid acknowledged at the conclusion of the offseason program. “I like the attitude of the guys. They’ve come in ready to work. ... They’ve got a good mindset. As coaches, we appreciate that.”

Reid also appreciates the aggressive moves that general manager Brett Veach made in free agency and the draft.

The overhaul began and ended with the offensive line, where the guys tasked with protecting the Chiefs’ half-billion dollar quarterback have more pressure on them than perhaps any group of five players anywhere.

They traded for Pro Bowl left tackle Orlando Brown Jr., signed stalwart left guard Joe Thuney, added competition at center with Austin Blythe, then landed a pair of potential starters in the draft in Oklahoma’s Creed Humphrey and Tennessee’s Trey Smith. They also will get back right guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif from his opt-out year treating COVID-19 patients in his native Canada, and third-round pick Lucas Niang, who opted out of his rookie season a year ago.

No wonder Mahomes seemed to be smiling everywhere he went this offseason.

“Obviously they’re super talented,” said Mahomes, who had surgery for turf toe after the Super Bowl but was back on the field in time to take first-team reps during voluntary workouts and the Chiefs’ mandatory minicamp.

“We have a lot of depth,” Mahomes continued, “and a lot of guys that can fill in here and there. We have guys who can play which is always good. I think the biggest thing is that if you didn’t know and you just walked into this locker room and saw those guys, you would think that they grew up together. The chemistry that they’ve built already, it’s tremendous.”

That doesn’t mean there aren’t questions on both sides of the ball as Mahomes joins select veterans and rookies in reporting to the Chiefs’ training camp home at Missouri Western State University on Friday.

On offense, the Chiefs lost wide receiver Sammy Watkins to free agency and swung and missed at a number of high-profile free agents, leaving them without a polished No. 2 wideout behind Tyreek Hill. Mecole Hardman and Demarcus Robinson will have the first shot, and Byron Pringle and Antonio Callaway also will have more opportunities in camp.

“I think a lot of guys had a really good OTAs and a really good minicamp,” Mahomes said. “I have the ultimate trust in them that no matter who’s in the game, we’re going to make some plays happen.”

On the other side of the ball, the pass rush remains a giant question mark after top defensive end Frank Clark was arrested twice over the offseason. Clark faces an Oct. 4 arraignment and plea hearing in Los Angeles after prosecutors charged him with felony gun possession, and his availability for the upcoming season remains uncertain.

The Chiefs hope defensive tackle Chris Jones can move outside after the signing of free agent Jarran Reed, but he’s yet to prove he can provide the same pass rush from that position. They also added Florida State pass rusher Joshua Kaindoh, who has all the right measurements but whose college performance was inconsistent.

In the defensive backfield, all eyes are on star safety Tyrann Mathieu, whose contract is coming to an end but who’s made it clear he wants to remain in Kansas City. Whether a deal gets done before season is anybody’s guess.

“I feel like I can play football anywhere,” he said, “but when you develop certain relationships with certain people, these people become a part of your life. ... So I can’t see me ever walking away from that relationship. I’ve been through a lot in my life, so for me, I think I’m holding onto certain relationships. I think that kind of outweighs any monetary things.”

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs could have stood pat after their second consecutive AFC championship, trusting in the fact that Patrick Mahomes would be their quarterback, Andy Reid their coach, and they would remain contenders for the foreseeable future.Instead, they tore most of their roster down to the studs and painstakingly pieced it back together.They should have an entirely different offensive line from the mismatched bunch of backups that was manhandled by the Buccaneers in a Super Bowl fiasco. They should have a vastly improved defensive line, which should in turn help their dire performance in the red zone. And they have added speed to an already quick roster across the board.“We have a lot of new faces,” Reid acknowledged at the conclusion of the offseason program. “I like the attitude of the guys. They’ve come in ready to work. ... They’ve got a good mindset. As coaches, we appreciate that.”Reid also appreciates the aggressive moves that general manager Brett Veach made in free agency and the draft.The overhaul began and ended with the offensive line, where the guys tasked with protecting the Chiefs’ half-billion dollar quarterback have more pressure on them than perhaps any group of five players anywhere.They traded for Pro Bowl left tackle Orlando Brown Jr., signed stalwart left guard Joe Thuney, added competition at center with Austin Blythe, then landed a pair of potential starters in the draft in Oklahoma’s Creed Humphrey and Tennessee’s Trey Smith. They also will get back right guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif from his opt-out year treating COVID-19 patients in his native Canada, and third-round pick Lucas Niang, who opted out of his rookie season a year ago.No wonder Mahomes seemed to be smiling everywhere he went this offseason.“Obviously they’re super talented,” said Mahomes, who had surgery for turf toe after the Super Bowl but was back on the field in time to take first-team reps during voluntary workouts and the Chiefs’ mandatory minicamp.“We have a lot of depth,” Mahomes continued, “and a lot of guys that can fill in here and there. We have guys who can play which is always good. I think the biggest thing is that if you didn’t know and you just walked into this locker room and saw those guys, you would think that they grew up together. The chemistry that they’ve built already, it’s tremendous.”That doesn’t mean there aren’t questions on both sides of the ball as Mahomes joins select veterans and rookies in reporting to the Chiefs’ training camp home at Missouri Western State University on Friday.On offense, the Chiefs lost wide receiver Sammy Watkins to free agency and swung and missed at a number of high-profile free agents, leaving them without a polished No. 2 wideout behind Tyreek Hill. Mecole Hardman and Demarcus Robinson will have the first shot, and Byron Pringle and Antonio Callaway also will have more opportunities in camp.“I think a lot of guys had a really good OTAs and a really good minicamp,” Mahomes said. “I have the ultimate trust in them that no matter who’s in the game, we’re going to make some plays happen.”On the other side of the ball, the pass rush remains a giant question mark after top defensive end Frank Clark was arrested twice over the offseason. Clark faces an Oct. 4 arraignment and plea hearing in Los Angeles after prosecutors charged him with felony gun possession, and his availability for the upcoming season remains uncertain.The Chiefs hope defensive tackle Chris Jones can move outside after the signing of free agent Jarran Reed, but he’s yet to prove he can provide the same pass rush from that position. They also added Florida State pass rusher Joshua Kaindoh, who has all the right measurements but whose college performance was inconsistent.In the defensive backfield, all eyes are on star safety Tyrann Mathieu, whose contract is coming to an end but who’s made it clear he wants to remain in Kansas City. Whether a deal gets done before season is anybody’s guess.“I feel like I can play football anywhere,” he said, “but when you develop certain relationships with certain people, these people become a part of your life. ... So I can’t see me ever walking away from that relationship. I’ve been through a lot in my life, so for me, I think I’m holding onto certain relationships. I think that kind of outweighs any monetary things.”

🏈 New-look Chiefs eye start of camp and continued success

The NCAA spent nearly $68 million on legal services during the 2019-20 fiscal year even as it lost hundreds of millions in revenue in the pandemic, according to tax documents released Monday.

Revenue was down more than 50% over the previous year, from more than $1.1 billion to just over $520 million, mostly because the lucrative college basketball tournaments were canceled as the coronavirus hit the U.S. hard early in 2020.

The media rights loss for the men’s tourney alone was $702 million, the NCAA said. Championship revenue was down $162 million due to the cancellation of winter and spring title events, though the NCAA said the blow was offset to some extent since expenses for those dropped by $119 million.

Saying it “continues to defend its mission and core values,” the NCAA also listed its legal expenses for 2019-20 at $67.7 million, more than double the $33 million the previous year “due to an accrual of $34.8 million related to the Alston case.”

Last month, the Supreme Court ruled against the NCAA in that case, upholding a lower court’s ruling in an antitrust case. The 9-0 decision means the NCAA cannot cap compensation schools provide to athletes for educational benefits.

The 990 tax form, which the NCAA is required to file as a tax exempt organization, also showed President Mark Emmert’s compensation for the fiscal year at over $2.8 million.

The NCAA spent nearly $68 million on legal services during the 2019-20 fiscal year even as it lost hundreds of millions in revenue in the pandemic, according to tax documents released Monday.Revenue was down more than 50% over the previous year, from more than $1.1 billion to just over $520 million, mostly because the lucrative college basketball tournaments were canceled as the coronavirus hit the U.S. hard early in 2020.The media rights loss for the men’s tourney alone was $702 million, the NCAA said. Championship revenue was down $162 million due to the cancellation of winter and spring title events, though the NCAA said the blow was offset to some extent since expenses for those dropped by $119 million.Saying it “continues to defend its mission and core values,” the NCAA also listed its legal expenses for 2019-20 at $67.7 million, more than double the $33 million the previous year “due to an accrual of $34.8 million related to the Alston case.”Last month, the Supreme Court ruled against the NCAA in that case, upholding a lower court’s ruling in an antitrust case. The 9-0 decision means the NCAA cannot cap compensation schools provide to athletes for educational benefits.The 990 tax form, which the NCAA is required to file as a tax exempt organization, also showed President Mark Emmert’s compensation for the fiscal year at over $2.8 million.Associated Press

NCAA hit hard by pandemic, spent $68 million on legal fees

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs fans will have to get tickets in advance to visit the Super Bowl runner-up's training camp this year, and they won't be able to get autographs from players because of COVID-19.

Dr. Paul Schroeppel, the AFC champions' head orthopedic surgeon, said Monday that fans won't be allowed to interact with players under the NFL's protocols for preventing coronavirus outbreaks. He discussed the rules during a daily webcast by the University of Kansas Health System.

The Chiefs open their training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri, on July 28 with a special event for season ticket holders, with practices open to other fans July 29, with attendance limited.

Missouri has seen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-michael-brown-fc8de32279eb2a37d17a92bbb1912a94">a surge in new COVID-19 cases</a>&nbsp;because of the faster-spreading delta variant.

“The league has very strict protocols,” Schroeppel said. “I think they've done everything they can to control transmission in those situations. Of course, when you get a crowd together, it's going to be very difficult, particularly for those unvaccinated.”

He said the Chiefs are “doing quite well” among NFL teams with players voluntarily getting vaccinated.

Schroeppel said the team plans to allow full attendance at Arrowhead Stadium during the season, but that could change based on COVID-19 case numbers.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs fans will have to get tickets in advance to visit the Super Bowl runner-up's training camp this year, and they won't be able to get autographs from players because of COVID-19.Dr. Paul Schroeppel, the AFC champions' head orthopedic surgeon, said Monday that fans won't be allowed to interact with players under the NFL's protocols for preventing coronavirus outbreaks. He discussed the rules during a daily webcast by the University of Kansas Health System.The Chiefs open their training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri, on July 28 with a special event for season ticket holders, with practices open to other fans July 29, with attendance limited.Missouri has seen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-michael-brown-fc8de32279eb2a37d17a92bbb1912a94">a surge in new COVID-19 cases</a>&nbsp;because of the faster-spreading delta variant.“The league has very strict protocols,” Schroeppel said. “I think they've done everything they can to control transmission in those situations. Of course, when you get a crowd together, it's going to be very difficult, particularly for those unvaccinated.”He said the Chiefs are “doing quite well” among NFL teams with players voluntarily getting vaccinated.Schroeppel said the team plans to allow full attendance at Arrowhead Stadium during the season, but that could change based on COVID-19 case numbers.

Chiefs to bar fan interaction with players at training camp

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City Royals prospects&nbsp;Nick Pratto&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;have both been promoted to Triple-A Omaha, the club announced this evening. Both had spent the first part of the season with Kansas City’s Double-A affiliate, Northwest Arkansas.

Pratto (first base) and Witt Jr. (shortstop) both started for the American League in the SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game a week ago today at Coors Field.

Pratto, 22, was Kansas City’s first-round selection (14th&nbsp;overall) in 2017 out of Huntington Beach (Calif.) High School. The left-handed hitting first baseman entered the day second among Double-A players in OPS (.978), while ranking second in the Central Division in slugging percentage (.573) and third in on-base percentage (.405). He was tops in the division in extra-base hits (32) and is tied for the lead in walks (46). Overall, Pratto is batting .273 (60-for-220) with 13 doubles, four triples, 15 homers and 43 RBI. He’s committed just one error in 60 games at first base, recording a .998 fielding percentage (474 chances).

Witt Jr., 21, was Kansas City’s first-round pick (2nd&nbsp;overall) in 2019 out of Colleyville Heritage High School (Texas). The shortstop entered the day leading all Double-A players in total bases (137), while also leading the Central in RBI (50) and tying for the division lead in runs scored (44). He was also second in the division in hits (71) and homers (16). Overall, Witt Jr. is slashing .292/.367/.564 (71-for-243) for a .931 OPS. He’s started 49 games at shortstop and eight at third base, posting a .977 fielding percentage (4 errors in 174 chances) and helped turn 21 double plays.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City Royals prospects&nbsp;Nick Pratto&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;have both been promoted to Triple-A Omaha, the club announced this evening. Both had spent the first part of the season with Kansas City’s Double-A affiliate, Northwest Arkansas.Pratto (first base) and Witt Jr. (shortstop) both started for the American League in the SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game a week ago today at Coors Field.Pratto, 22, was Kansas City’s first-round selection (14th&nbsp;overall) in 2017 out of Huntington Beach (Calif.) High School. The left-handed hitting first baseman entered the day second among Double-A players in OPS (.978), while ranking second in the Central Division in slugging percentage (.573) and third in on-base percentage (.405). He was tops in the division in extra-base hits (32) and is tied for the lead in walks (46). Overall, Pratto is batting .273 (60-for-220) with 13 doubles, four triples, 15 homers and 43 RBI. He’s committed just one error in 60 games at first base, recording a .998 fielding percentage (474 chances).Witt Jr., 21, was Kansas City’s first-round pick (2nd&nbsp;overall) in 2019 out of Colleyville Heritage High School (Texas). The shortstop entered the day leading all Double-A players in total bases (137), while also leading the Central in RBI (50) and tying for the division lead in runs scored (44). He was also second in the division in hits (71) and homers (16). Overall, Witt Jr. is slashing .292/.367/.564 (71-for-243) for a .931 OPS. He’s started 49 games at shortstop and eight at third base, posting a .977 fielding percentage (4 errors in 174 chances) and helped turn 21 double plays.Kansas City Royals

⚾ Prospects Nick Prato, Bobby Witt, Jr. promoted to Omaha

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Matt Harvey ended his nine-game losing skid with his best performance in years, pitching six crisp innings and sending the Baltimore Orioles over the Kansas City Royals 5-0 Sunday.

Harvey (4-10) had been winless in 12 starts since his previous victory on May 1. The former All-Star allowed just three singles, walked one and struck out two against his former team.

“I went out there and tried to flip the switch on a poor first half,” Harvey said. “Having those days off to recharge definitely helps.”

Harvey’s six innings matched his season high. This was the first time since September 2018 that Harvey pitched at least six innings and didn’t allow a run.

“He’s been pitching with some nagging things, but he was really good today,” Baltimore manager Brandon Hyde said. “I was happy with how everyone pitched today.”

Carlos Hernandez (1-1) allowed two runs on two hits and two walks over four innings in his second career start. Kyle Zimmer, Josh Staumont and Greg Holland each allowed a run in relief.

Ramon Urias hit a two-run single in the third for a 2-0 lead. He has at least two hits in seven of his last 10 games.

Trey Mancini had an RBI single in the fifth, Austin Wynns doubled home a run in the sixth and another scored on an error in the eighth.

Hunter Dozier tied a career high with four hits for the Royals. He went 7 for 12 in the series.

“Every game we don’t take advantage of it hurts the same,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “I know the kind of team we have and we need better results.”

The Royals will begin a two-game set with the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday. That game was set to start at 7:10 p.m., but was moved up to 3:10 p.m. due to Game 6 of the NBA Finals involving the Milwaukee Bucks that night.

Baltimore: Manager Brandon Hyde said he hopes 3B Maikel Franco (ankle sprain) will be back soon. Franco will begin his rehab stint this week.

Orioles: Continues their road trip in Tampa Bay on Monday as Spenser Watkins (1-0, 1.74) starts.

Royals: Have an off day before facing Milwaukee for a 3:10 start on Tuesday with Mike Minor (6-8, 5.67) on the mound.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Matt Harvey ended his nine-game losing skid with his best performance in years, pitching six crisp innings and sending the Baltimore Orioles over the Kansas City Royals 5-0 Sunday.Harvey (4-10) had been winless in 12 starts since his previous victory on May 1. The former All-Star allowed just three singles, walked one and struck out two against his former team.“I went out there and tried to flip the switch on a poor first half,” Harvey said. “Having those days off to recharge definitely helps.”Harvey’s six innings matched his season high. This was the first time since September 2018 that Harvey pitched at least six innings and didn’t allow a run.“He’s been pitching with some nagging things, but he was really good today,” Baltimore manager Brandon Hyde said. “I was happy with how everyone pitched today.”Carlos Hernandez (1-1) allowed two runs on two hits and two walks over four innings in his second career start. Kyle Zimmer, Josh Staumont and Greg Holland each allowed a run in relief.Ramon Urias hit a two-run single in the third for a 2-0 lead. He has at least two hits in seven of his last 10 games.Trey Mancini had an RBI single in the fifth, Austin Wynns doubled home a run in the sixth and another scored on an error in the eighth.Hunter Dozier tied a career high with four hits for the Royals. He went 7 for 12 in the series.“Every game we don’t take advantage of it hurts the same,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “I know the kind of team we have and we need better results.”GAME TIME CHANGEThe Royals will begin a two-game set with the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday. That game was set to start at 7:10 p.m., but was moved up to 3:10 p.m. due to Game 6 of the NBA Finals involving the Milwaukee Bucks that night.TRAINER’S ROOMBaltimore: Manager Brandon Hyde said he hopes 3B Maikel Franco (ankle sprain) will be back soon. Franco will begin his rehab stint this week.UP NEXTOrioles: Continues their road trip in Tampa Bay on Monday as Spenser Watkins (1-0, 1.74) starts.Royals: Have an off day before facing Milwaukee for a 3:10 start on Tuesday with Mike Minor (6-8, 5.67) on the mound.

⚾ Royals' offense held in check by Matt Harvey in loss to Orioles

HAYS – Four Hays Larks pitchers combined to throw a two-hit
shutout and the Larks extended their winning streak to 10 games with a 16-0, seven-inning run-rule victory over Oklahoma City Saturday evening at Larks Park. It’s the
Larks longest win streak since they won 12 straight early in the 2019 season. The
Larks are now 22-4 and have matched last season's win total.

Tyler Palmer (2-0) allowed one hit with two strikeouts over
three innings and picked up the win in his first start of the summer. Maxx
Castelluci allowed one hit with two strikeouts and two walks over two innings
of relief. Derek Cecolati and Jose Velazquez both pitched a scoreless frame to
close out the game.

The Larks scored seven runs in the second inning then seven
more in the third to take control early. Zach Henry scored on Grant Schmidt’s
single to left with two outs in the bottom of the first for what proved to be
the only run the Larks would need. Henry hit a three-run, inside-the-park home
run in the third to push the lead to 4-0.

Henry and Palmer Hutchison both drove in three runs. Grant
Schmidt had three of the Larks 15 hits and drove in two runs. Grant Lung and Leo
Jiminian also had two RBIs. Cam Pehrson, Hutchison, Jiminian and Schmidt all
had doubles.

The Larks continue to hold down first place in the Rocky Mountain
Baseball League. The Larks are 10-2 in RMBL play and lead the Colorado Sox by 3
1/2 games. 

The Larks are off Sunday then open a four-game Rocky Mountain
Baseball League series against the Colorado Rough Riders at Larks Park. The Rough
Riders are 4-9 and in last place in the RMBL, 6 1/2 games behind the Larks.

HAYS – Four Hays Larks pitchers combined to throw a two-hit
shutout and the Larks extended their winning streak to 10 games with a 16-0, seven-inning run-rule victory over Oklahoma City Saturday evening at Larks Park. It’s the
Larks longest win streak since they won 12 straight early in the 2019 season. The
Larks are now 22-4 and have matched last season's win total.Tyler Palmer (2-0) allowed one hit with two strikeouts over
three innings and picked up the win in his first start of the summer. Maxx
Castelluci allowed one hit with two strikeouts and two walks over two innings
of relief. Derek Cecolati and Jose Velazquez both pitched a scoreless frame to
close out the game.The Larks scored seven runs in the second inning then seven
more in the third to take control early. Zach Henry scored on Grant Schmidt’s
single to left with two outs in the bottom of the first for what proved to be
the only run the Larks would need. Henry hit a three-run, inside-the-park home
run in the third to push the lead to 4-0.Henry and Palmer Hutchison both drove in three runs. Grant
Schmidt had three of the Larks 15 hits and drove in two runs. Grant Lung and Leo
Jiminian also had two RBIs. Cam Pehrson, Hutchison, Jiminian and Schmidt all
had doubles.HOLDING DOWN FIRSTThe Larks continue to hold down first place in the Rocky Mountain
Baseball League. The Larks are 10-2 in RMBL play and lead the Colorado Sox by 3
1/2 games. UP NEXTThe Larks are off Sunday then open a four-game Rocky Mountain
Baseball League series against the Colorado Rough Riders at Larks Park. The Rough
Riders are 4-9 and in last place in the RMBL, 6 1/2 games behind the Larks.

⚾ Larks cruise to 10th straight win

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ryan Mountcastle and Ramón Urias each had two RBIs, and the Baltimore Orioles ended a five-game losing streak by beating the Kansas City Royals 8-4 on Saturday night.

The Orioles got six consecutive hits in a five-run third inning as they chased starter Brady Singer and opened a 7-0 lead.

It was only Baltimore's second win in July.

Singer (3-7) gave up seven earned runs, the most in a start in his career. He lasted two-plus innings, allowing eight hits and one walk. His one strikeout matched his fewest in a start during his two seasons in the majors.

Kris Bubic pitched six innings in relief for the Royals, giving up just one run and two hits. He struck out five.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ryan Mountcastle and Ramón Urias each had two RBIs, and the Baltimore Orioles ended a five-game losing streak by beating the Kansas City Royals 8-4 on Saturday night.The Orioles got six consecutive hits in a five-run third inning as they chased starter Brady Singer and opened a 7-0 lead.It was only Baltimore's second win in July.Singer (3-7) gave up seven earned runs, the most in a start in his career. He lasted two-plus innings, allowing eight hits and one walk. His one strikeout matched his fewest in a start during his two seasons in the majors.Kris Bubic pitched six innings in relief for the Royals, giving up just one run and two hits. He struck out five.Baltimore starter Jorge Lopez went 4 2/3 innings, allowing four earned runs and seven hits with four strikeouts. Paul Fry (3-3) worked 1 1/3 hitless innings for the win.Carlos Santana had an RBI double for Kansas City.Seven of the nine starters for Baltimore had at least one hit. DJ Stewart, Anthony Santander, Domingo Leyba and Pedro Severino all had RBIs.Lopez was pitching well into the fifth inning, but was pulled after giving up three runs just one out away from being eligible for the win. Whit Merrifield had a sacrifice fly and Salvador Perez hit an RBI single.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: Reinstated RHP Wade Davis from the 10-day injured list and designated RHP Anthony Swarzak for assignment.UP NEXTOrioles RHP Matt Harvey (3-10, 7.70 ERA) faces his former team Sunday in the rubber game of the series. Carlos Hernandez (1-0, 4.98) pitches for Kansas City.