The former voice of the Fort Hays State Tigers and Kansas Jayhawks in addition to Kansas City Royals broadcaster, Bob Davis, will be in Hays Saturday for a book signing at the Golden Q.

Davis teamed up with Hays native Jeff Bollig to write "The Dream is Real, My Life on the Airwaves."

Books will be available for purchase at the Golden Q for $20 or you can bring your own copy and get it signed by Davis who started his award winning broadcasting career in Hays.

Hays PostThe former voice of the Fort Hays State Tigers and Kansas Jayhawks in addition to Kansas City Royals broadcaster, Bob Davis, will be in Hays Saturday for a book signing at the Golden Q.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626204932994.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Davis teamed up with Hays native Jeff Bollig to write "The Dream is Real, My Life on the Airwaves."Books will be available for purchase at the Golden Q for $20 or you can bring your own copy and get it signed by Davis who started his award winning broadcasting career in Hays.

Bob Davis in Hays on Saturday for book signing

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Kansas City Royals selected 10 players on the third and final day of the 2021 First-Year Player Draft. In total, the Royals added 21 players to their organization over the last three days, including six right-handed pitchers, six left-handed pitchers, five middle infielders, two outfielders and two catchers. After selecting high school players with four of their first five picks, the Royals selected from the college ranks with 12 of their final 14 picks, including each of their last nine.&nbsp;

The Royals selected&nbsp;Brennon McNair&nbsp;in the 11th&nbsp;round (319th&nbsp;overall), a shortstop from Magee High School (Miss.). McNair, 18, was named Co-Player of the Year in 3A Baseball by the Mississippi Association of Coaches and graduated as valedictorian of his senior class. He is committed to South Alabama.

In the 12th&nbsp;round (349th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Tyson Guerrero, a left-handed pitcher out of the University of Washington. Guerrero, 21, ranked third among qualifying pitchers in the Pac-12 with a 2.96 ERA (18 ER in 54.2 IP) this season. He spent the shortened 2020 season at Lower Columbia after transferring from Washington State in 2019, where he was a two-way player as a freshman.

With their 13th-round pick (379th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Patrick Halligan, a right-handed pitcher from Pensacola State College. Halligan, 21, was named First-Team All-Panhandle Conference this season after going 7-3 with a 1.87 ERA and 109 strikeouts in 81.2 innings. He spent the first two seasons of his collegiate career at George Mason.

The Royals selected&nbsp;Caden Monke, a left-handed pitcher out of the University of Arkansas, in the 14th&nbsp;round (409th&nbsp;overall). Monke, 21, went 5-1 with a 3.71 ERA (14 ER in 34.0 IP) and 42 strikeouts (11.1 K/9) in 27 relief appearances this season at Arkansas, where he was teammates with&nbsp;Robert Moore, the son of Royals’ GM&nbsp;Dayton Moore.

In the 15th&nbsp;round (439th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected outfielder&nbsp;River Town&nbsp;out of Dallas Baptist University. Town, who turned 22 last week, hit .326 (76-for-233) with 10 home runs, 51 RBI and 20 stolen bases in 59 games as a junior this season, and is currently playing in the Cape Cod League. He played at LSU Eunice from 2019-20, where he earned an ABCA/Rawlings&nbsp;Gold Glove and led the team with a .535 on-base percentage as a freshman in 2019.

With their 16th-round pick (469th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Anthony Simonelli, a right-handed pitcher out of Virginia Tech University. Simonelli, 22, went 5-2 in 13 starts this season at Virginia Tech, where he was teammates with left hander&nbsp;Shane Connolly, who the Royals selected in the 10th&nbsp;round yesterday.&nbsp;

In the 17th&nbsp;round (499th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Luca Tresh, a catcher out of NC State University, who hit a career-high 15 home runs with 43 RBI while catching all 56 games as a junior this season. He is the cousin of&nbsp;Tom Tresh, who won Rookie of the Year in 1962 and was a three-time All-Star with the Yankees during his nine-year big league career from 1961-69.

With their 18th-round pick (529th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Harrison Beethe&nbsp;out of Texas Christian University. Beethe, 23, has made 14 relief appearances over the last two seasons, and was previously selected by Milwaukee in the 39th&nbsp;round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft out of North Iowa Area Community College, where he was the No. 4 prospect in the state, according to&nbsp;Baseball America.

In the 19th&nbsp;round (559th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Cam Williams, a shortstop from the University of Texas. Williams, 23, hit .295 (61-for-207) with 20 doubles, 12 home runs and 51 RBI in 61 games this season, after previously playing at San Jacinto College and Dallas Baptist University. He was selected by Seattle in the 39th round of the 2016 Draft out of Gaither High School (Fla.), and is the son of&nbsp;Reggie Williams, who played in parts of four seasons with the Angels (1992, 1998-99) and the Dodgers (1995).

With their final pick, the Royals selected left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Jack Aldrich&nbsp;in the 20th&nbsp;round (589th&nbsp;overall) out of Tulane University, where he pitched to a 3.70 ERA (34 ER in 82.2 IP) with 96 strikeouts (10.5 K/9) and just 23 walks (2.5 BB/9) this season. Prior to his two seasons at Tulane, he attended Santa Barbara City College in 2019 and Santa Clara University in 2018.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Kansas City Royals selected 10 players on the third and final day of the 2021 First-Year Player Draft. In total, the Royals added 21 players to their organization over the last three days, including six right-handed pitchers, six left-handed pitchers, five middle infielders, two outfielders and two catchers. After selecting high school players with four of their first five picks, the Royals selected from the college ranks with 12 of their final 14 picks, including each of their last nine.&nbsp;The Royals selected&nbsp;Brennon McNair&nbsp;in the 11th&nbsp;round (319th&nbsp;overall), a shortstop from Magee High School (Miss.). McNair, 18, was named Co-Player of the Year in 3A Baseball by the Mississippi Association of Coaches and graduated as valedictorian of his senior class. He is committed to South Alabama.In the 12th&nbsp;round (349th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Tyson Guerrero, a left-handed pitcher out of the University of Washington. Guerrero, 21, ranked third among qualifying pitchers in the Pac-12 with a 2.96 ERA (18 ER in 54.2 IP) this season. He spent the shortened 2020 season at Lower Columbia after transferring from Washington State in 2019, where he was a two-way player as a freshman.With their 13th-round pick (379th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Patrick Halligan, a right-handed pitcher from Pensacola State College. Halligan, 21, was named First-Team All-Panhandle Conference this season after going 7-3 with a 1.87 ERA and 109 strikeouts in 81.2 innings. He spent the first two seasons of his collegiate career at George Mason.The Royals selected&nbsp;Caden Monke, a left-handed pitcher out of the University of Arkansas, in the 14th&nbsp;round (409th&nbsp;overall). Monke, 21, went 5-1 with a 3.71 ERA (14 ER in 34.0 IP) and 42 strikeouts (11.1 K/9) in 27 relief appearances this season at Arkansas, where he was teammates with&nbsp;Robert Moore, the son of Royals’ GM&nbsp;Dayton Moore.In the 15th&nbsp;round (439th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected outfielder&nbsp;River Town&nbsp;out of Dallas Baptist University. Town, who turned 22 last week, hit .326 (76-for-233) with 10 home runs, 51 RBI and 20 stolen bases in 59 games as a junior this season, and is currently playing in the Cape Cod League. He played at LSU Eunice from 2019-20, where he earned an ABCA/Rawlings&nbsp;Gold Glove and led the team with a .535 on-base percentage as a freshman in 2019.With their 16th-round pick (469th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Anthony Simonelli, a right-handed pitcher out of Virginia Tech University. Simonelli, 22, went 5-2 in 13 starts this season at Virginia Tech, where he was teammates with left hander&nbsp;Shane Connolly, who the Royals selected in the 10th&nbsp;round yesterday.&nbsp;In the 17th&nbsp;round (499th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Luca Tresh, a catcher out of NC State University, who hit a career-high 15 home runs with 43 RBI while catching all 56 games as a junior this season. He is the cousin of&nbsp;Tom Tresh, who won Rookie of the Year in 1962 and was a three-time All-Star with the Yankees during his nine-year big league career from 1961-69.With their 18th-round pick (529th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Harrison Beethe&nbsp;out of Texas Christian University. Beethe, 23, has made 14 relief appearances over the last two seasons, and was previously selected by Milwaukee in the 39th&nbsp;round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft out of North Iowa Area Community College, where he was the No. 4 prospect in the state, according to&nbsp;Baseball America.In the 19th&nbsp;round (559th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Cam Williams, a shortstop from the University of Texas. Williams, 23, hit .295 (61-for-207) with 20 doubles, 12 home runs and 51 RBI in 61 games this season, after previously playing at San Jacinto College and Dallas Baptist University. He was selected by Seattle in the 39th round of the 2016 Draft out of Gaither High School (Fla.), and is the son of&nbsp;Reggie Williams, who played in parts of four seasons with the Angels (1992, 1998-99) and the Dodgers (1995).With their final pick, the Royals selected left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Jack Aldrich&nbsp;in the 20th&nbsp;round (589th&nbsp;overall) out of Tulane University, where he pitched to a 3.70 ERA (34 ER in 82.2 IP) with 96 strikeouts (10.5 K/9) and just 23 walks (2.5 BB/9) this season. Prior to his two seasons at Tulane, he attended Santa Barbara City College in 2019 and Santa Clara University in 2018.Kansas City Royals

⚾ Royals select 10 players on final day of MLB draft

A couple of former Hays Larks were selected in the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft. Pitcher Carlos Tavera and outfielder Spencer Packard were both chosen. Tavera was chosen in the fifth round by Baltimore, Packard went in the ninth round to Seattle.

Tavera pitched for the Larks in 2018 and finished with a 4-0 record and 5.79 ERA. He was added to the Larks roster for the 2019 and 2020 NBC World Series making two appearances in 2019. He struck out 11 over six innings but didn't figure in the decision in the Larks 5-3 win over Lonestar Baseball out of Texas in last summer's NBC WS.

Tavera was a first team All-Sun Belt Conference selection this spring after going 3-4 with a 3.04 ERA.

He pitched the first nine innings of an 11-inning no-hitter against Little Rock which marked the first combined no-hitter in UTA history, longest in history and first since 1983.

Packard played for the Larks in 2017, competing in 23 games and batting .333 with eight home runs and 21 RBIs.

Packard started his career at Arizona Western College before transferring to Campbell where he hit .371 with 11 home runs and 67 RBIs this past spring.

A couple of former Hays Larks were selected in the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft. Pitcher Carlos Tavera and outfielder Spencer Packard were both chosen. Tavera was chosen in the fifth round by Baltimore, Packard went in the ninth round to Seattle.Tavera pitched for the Larks in 2018 and finished with a 4-0 record and 5.79 ERA. He was added to the Larks roster for the 2019 and 2020 NBC World Series making two appearances in 2019. He struck out 11 over six innings but didn't figure in the decision in the Larks 5-3 win over Lonestar Baseball out of Texas in last summer's NBC WS.Tavera was a first team All-Sun Belt Conference selection this spring after going 3-4 with a 3.04 ERA.He pitched the first nine innings of an 11-inning no-hitter against Little Rock which marked the first combined no-hitter in UTA history, longest in history and first since 1983.Packard played for the Larks in 2017, competing in 23 games and batting .333 with eight home runs and 21 RBIs.Packard started his career at Arizona Western College before transferring to Campbell where he hit .371 with 11 home runs and 67 RBIs this past spring.

⚾ Two former Larks selected in MLB draft

HAYS – The Hays Larks had to
rally then hold on but they did that just to win game three of their key
four-game Rocky Mountain Baseball League series with the Fort Collins Foxes.
The Larks trailed 2-0 before coming to bat but score single runs in the first
and second to tie then take the lead on Matt Cavanaugh’s two-out, two-run
single in the fourth. The Foxes would score a run in the ninth but Jose
Velazquez got a groundout to end the game.

The Foxes (10-12, 8-8 RMBL)
opened the game with three straight singles off of Larks starter Luuk ter Beek.
They scored their first run on a bases loaded walk. The second run came on a
double play. ter Beek (2-1) didn’t allow a run over the next five innings and
picked up the win.

Oklahoma’s Cade Brown pitched
two shutout innings before Jose Velazquez walked three then hit a batter on an
0-2 pitch to drive in a run in the ninth. Velazquez then got a groundout to end
the game and pick up his second save in as many chances.

The Larks (19-4, 9-2 RMBL)
were held to five singles, one night after hitting three home runs and six
extra base hits.

Wyatt Divis extended his hitting streak to 15 games with a leadoff single to right in the fifth inning. It's the longest for a Larks player since Justin Lee hit safely in 19 straight during the 2019 season.

The Larks lead is now three
atop the Rocky Mountain Baseball League after the Game Day Saints lost 7-5 to
the Colorado Rough Riders Monday. The Larks are trying for their second
straight RMBL title in only their second season in the league.

UP NEXT 
 
The Larks try for the four-game series sweep Tuesday night at Larks Park. Admission
is free for the seven o’clock game courtesy of Werth Wealth Management, Farm
Bureau Financial, Danny Dinkel and Associates and Bank of Hays. You can hear
the game on KAYS (1400-AM, 94.3-FM beginning at 6:45 p.m.)

HAYS – The Hays Larks had to
rally then hold on but they did that just to win game three of their key
four-game Rocky Mountain Baseball League series with the Fort Collins Foxes.
The Larks trailed 2-0 before coming to bat but score single runs in the first
and second to tie then take the lead on Matt Cavanaugh’s two-out, two-run
single in the fourth. The Foxes would score a run in the ninth but Jose
Velazquez got a groundout to end the game.<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/1086450190&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-814667509/07-12-21-larks-coach-int" title="Frank Leo Postgame vs. Fort Collins Foxes (Jul 12, 2021)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Frank Leo Postgame vs. Fort Collins Foxes (Jul 12, 2021)</a></div></div>The Foxes (10-12, 8-8 RMBL)
opened the game with three straight singles off of Larks starter Luuk ter Beek.
They scored their first run on a bases loaded walk. The second run came on a
double play. ter Beek (2-1) didn’t allow a run over the next five innings and
picked up the win.Oklahoma’s Cade Brown pitched
two shutout innings before Jose Velazquez walked three then hit a batter on an
0-2 pitch to drive in a run in the ninth. Velazquez then got a groundout to end
the game and pick up his second save in as many chances.<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/1086450160&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-814667509/07-12-21-larks-highlights" title="Hays Larks vs. Fort Collins Foxes Highlights (Jul 12, 2021)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays Larks vs. Fort Collins Foxes Highlights (Jul 12, 2021)</a></div></div>The Larks (19-4, 9-2 RMBL)
were held to five singles, one night after hitting three home runs and six
extra base hits.HIT STREAK EXTENDEDWyatt Divis extended his hitting streak to 15 games with a leadoff single to right in the fifth inning. It's the longest for a Larks player since Justin Lee hit safely in 19 straight during the 2019 season.ATOP THE RMBLThe Larks lead is now three
atop the Rocky Mountain Baseball League after the Game Day Saints lost 7-5 to
the Colorado Rough Riders Monday. The Larks are trying for their second
straight RMBL title in only their second season in the league.UP NEXT 
 
The Larks try for the four-game series sweep Tuesday night at Larks Park. Admission
is free for the seven o’clock game courtesy of Werth Wealth Management, Farm
Bureau Financial, Danny Dinkel and Associates and Bank of Hays. You can hear
the game on KAYS (1400-AM, 94.3-FM beginning at 6:45 p.m.)

⚾ Larks hold off Foxes for seventh straight win

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Kansas City Royals selected 10 players on the second day of the 2021 First-Year Player Draft, including three right-handed pitchers, two left-handed pitchers, three middle infielders, one outfielder and one catcher. Three of their first four picks today were high school players, but five of their last six selections were from the college ranks.

Three of the Royals’ 10 picks today are local products, including right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Ben Kudrna&nbsp;(2nd&nbsp;round) out of Blue Valley Southwest High School in Overland Park, Kan.; catcher&nbsp;Carter Jensen&nbsp;(3rd&nbsp;round) out of Park Hill Senior High School in Kansas City, Mo.; and left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Noah Cameron&nbsp;(7th&nbsp;round), out of the University of Central Arkansas, by way of Central High School in St. Joseph, Mo.

The Royals selected&nbsp;Ben Kudrna&nbsp;in the second round (43rd&nbsp;overall), a right-handed pitcher from nearby Blue Valley Southwest High School in Overland Park, Kan. Kudrna, 18, was named Gatorade State High School Player of the Year. He went 9-1 with a 0.99 ERA and 100 strikeouts in 57.1 innings as a senior this season and pitched a three-hit shutout in the Kansas 5-A state championship game.

With the 66th&nbsp;overall pick in Competitive Balance Round B, the Royals selected&nbsp;Peyton Wilson, a second baseman from the University of Alabama. Wilson, 21, started all 58 games as a sophomore this season and hit .290 (72-for-248) with 23 extra-base hits and 10 stolen bases, and five of his nine home runs were leadoff shots. Peyton is the brother of&nbsp;John Parker Wilson, who played quarterback at Alabama, and&nbsp;Ross Wilson, who was selected by the White Sox in the 10th&nbsp;round in the 2010 Draft.&nbsp;

In the third round (78th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Carter Jensen, a catcher out of Park Hill Senior High School in Kansas City, Mo., which is located about 20 miles north of Kauffman Stadium. Jensen was named a&nbsp;Perfect Game&nbsp;Preseason All-American prior to his senior season and is committed to play baseball at Louisiana State University. Last offseason, he worked out at Premier Baseball Kansas City, where he hit against professional pitchers, including the Cardinals’&nbsp;Dakota Hudson.

With their fourth-round pick (108th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Shane Panzini, a right-handed pitcher from Red Bank Catholic High School (N.J.). Panzini, 19, went 9-0 with a 0.91 ERA in 61.2 innings as a senior with a single-season school-record 115 strikeouts. He is committed to play baseball at the University of Virginia.

In the fifth round (139th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Eric Cerantola&nbsp;out of Mississippi State University. Cerantola, 21, made 10 appearances for the College World Series champs as a junior this season, after bypassing a chance to sign with the Rays as a 30th-round pick in 2018. He attended high school at Ecole Secondaire Catholique Sainte-Trinite in Ontario, Canada, where he played baseball, hockey and volleyball.

With their sixth-round pick (169th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected second baseman&nbsp;Dayton Dooney&nbsp;out of Central Arizona College. Dooney, 21, slashed .376/.452/.706 this season and led Central Arizona to the championship game of the Junior College World Series. He attended the University of Arizona for the first two seasons of his collegiate career and was named a First-Team Freshman All-American in 2019 after hitting .323 (52-for-161) with 10 home runs, 53 RBI and a 1.013 OPS.

In the seventh round (199th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Noah Cameron&nbsp;out of the University of Central Arkansas. He recorded a 2.57 ERA (8 ER in 28.0 IP) with 31 strikeouts (10.0 K/9) and just two walks (0.6 BB/9) in four starts as a sophomore during the pandemic-shortened season in 2020, before undergoing Tommy John Surgery last August. Cameron, who will turn 22 later this week, is the fifth player draft by the Royals out of Central Arkansas since 2018.

With their eighth-round pick (229th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Ryan Cepero, a shortstop from the Carlos Beltrán Baseball Academy. He hit .357 (10-for-28) in 10 games with the Trenton Thunder of the MLB Draft League, and was signed to play baseball at Wichita State before committing to Florida Southwestern State College.

In the ninth round (259th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected outfielder&nbsp;Parker Bates&nbsp;out of Louisiana Tech University. Bates, a fifth-year senior, earned First-Team All-Conference USA honors in 2021 and led the conference with a .471 on-base percentage. He played in 226 games at Louisiana Tech – most in program history – and started each of the last 201 games to end his collegiate career. He led the Bulldogs in RBI in each of his last four seasons, including 62 RBI in 62 games this season.

With their 10th&nbsp;and final pick of day two, the Royals selected&nbsp;Shane Connolly, a left-handed pitcher out of Virginia Tech University, in the 10th&nbsp;round (289th&nbsp;overall). Connolly, 22, made 21 appearances (6 starts) as a senior at Virginia Tech this season and ranked second on the team in strikeouts (81) and third in innings (63.0), after spending the first three seasons of his collegiate career at The Citadel.

The Draft concludes with rounds 11-20 tomorrow, beginning at 11:00 a.m. CT on MLB.com.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Kansas City Royals selected 10 players on the second day of the 2021 First-Year Player Draft, including three right-handed pitchers, two left-handed pitchers, three middle infielders, one outfielder and one catcher. Three of their first four picks today were high school players, but five of their last six selections were from the college ranks.Three of the Royals’ 10 picks today are local products, including right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Ben Kudrna&nbsp;(2nd&nbsp;round) out of Blue Valley Southwest High School in Overland Park, Kan.; catcher&nbsp;Carter Jensen&nbsp;(3rd&nbsp;round) out of Park Hill Senior High School in Kansas City, Mo.; and left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Noah Cameron&nbsp;(7th&nbsp;round), out of the University of Central Arkansas, by way of Central High School in St. Joseph, Mo.The Royals selected&nbsp;Ben Kudrna&nbsp;in the second round (43rd&nbsp;overall), a right-handed pitcher from nearby Blue Valley Southwest High School in Overland Park, Kan. Kudrna, 18, was named Gatorade State High School Player of the Year. He went 9-1 with a 0.99 ERA and 100 strikeouts in 57.1 innings as a senior this season and pitched a three-hit shutout in the Kansas 5-A state championship game.With the 66th&nbsp;overall pick in Competitive Balance Round B, the Royals selected&nbsp;Peyton Wilson, a second baseman from the University of Alabama. Wilson, 21, started all 58 games as a sophomore this season and hit .290 (72-for-248) with 23 extra-base hits and 10 stolen bases, and five of his nine home runs were leadoff shots. Peyton is the brother of&nbsp;John Parker Wilson, who played quarterback at Alabama, and&nbsp;Ross Wilson, who was selected by the White Sox in the 10th&nbsp;round in the 2010 Draft.&nbsp;In the third round (78th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Carter Jensen, a catcher out of Park Hill Senior High School in Kansas City, Mo., which is located about 20 miles north of Kauffman Stadium. Jensen was named a&nbsp;Perfect Game&nbsp;Preseason All-American prior to his senior season and is committed to play baseball at Louisiana State University. Last offseason, he worked out at Premier Baseball Kansas City, where he hit against professional pitchers, including the Cardinals’&nbsp;Dakota Hudson.With their fourth-round pick (108th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Shane Panzini, a right-handed pitcher from Red Bank Catholic High School (N.J.). Panzini, 19, went 9-0 with a 0.91 ERA in 61.2 innings as a senior with a single-season school-record 115 strikeouts. He is committed to play baseball at the University of Virginia.In the fifth round (139th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Eric Cerantola&nbsp;out of Mississippi State University. Cerantola, 21, made 10 appearances for the College World Series champs as a junior this season, after bypassing a chance to sign with the Rays as a 30th-round pick in 2018. He attended high school at Ecole Secondaire Catholique Sainte-Trinite in Ontario, Canada, where he played baseball, hockey and volleyball.With their sixth-round pick (169th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected second baseman&nbsp;Dayton Dooney&nbsp;out of Central Arizona College. Dooney, 21, slashed .376/.452/.706 this season and led Central Arizona to the championship game of the Junior College World Series. He attended the University of Arizona for the first two seasons of his collegiate career and was named a First-Team Freshman All-American in 2019 after hitting .323 (52-for-161) with 10 home runs, 53 RBI and a 1.013 OPS.In the seventh round (199th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Noah Cameron&nbsp;out of the University of Central Arkansas. He recorded a 2.57 ERA (8 ER in 28.0 IP) with 31 strikeouts (10.0 K/9) and just two walks (0.6 BB/9) in four starts as a sophomore during the pandemic-shortened season in 2020, before undergoing Tommy John Surgery last August. Cameron, who will turn 22 later this week, is the fifth player draft by the Royals out of Central Arkansas since 2018.With their eighth-round pick (229th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected&nbsp;Ryan Cepero, a shortstop from the Carlos Beltrán Baseball Academy. He hit .357 (10-for-28) in 10 games with the Trenton Thunder of the MLB Draft League, and was signed to play baseball at Wichita State before committing to Florida Southwestern State College.In the ninth round (259th&nbsp;overall), the Royals selected outfielder&nbsp;Parker Bates&nbsp;out of Louisiana Tech University. Bates, a fifth-year senior, earned First-Team All-Conference USA honors in 2021 and led the conference with a .471 on-base percentage. He played in 226 games at Louisiana Tech – most in program history – and started each of the last 201 games to end his collegiate career. He led the Bulldogs in RBI in each of his last four seasons, including 62 RBI in 62 games this season.With their 10th&nbsp;and final pick of day two, the Royals selected&nbsp;Shane Connolly, a left-handed pitcher out of Virginia Tech University, in the 10th&nbsp;round (289th&nbsp;overall). Connolly, 22, made 21 appearances (6 starts) as a senior at Virginia Tech this season and ranked second on the team in strikeouts (81) and third in innings (63.0), after spending the first three seasons of his collegiate career at The Citadel.The Draft concludes with rounds 11-20 tomorrow, beginning at 11:00 a.m. CT on MLB.com.Kansas City Royals

⚾ Royals select 10 players on second day of 2021 first year player draft

HAYS – Wyatt Divis had three hits including one of the Larks three home runs to help Hays to a 14-6 win over the Fort Collins Foxes Sunday at Larks
Park. Divis finished 3-for-4 with four RBIs and four runs scored as the Larks ran their winning streak to six games and increased their lead atop the Rocky Mountain
Baseball League.

The Larks (18-4, 8-2 RMBL) struck early, scoring four in the
bottom of the first and had a 6-0 lead after two innings. The Foxes (10-11, 8-7
RMBL) pulled within two twice but a five-run seventh blew the game open for Hays.

Divis got the scoring started with an RBI single in the
first. Grant Schmidt added a run-scoring double then Palmer Hutchison a two-run
single. Divis added a two-run homer in the second to push the lead to 6-0.

The Larks blew open a two-run game with five runs in the seventh.
Divis drove in the first with a single then Cortland Lawson added a two-run homer.
Following a Grant Schmidt double, Palmer Hutchison drove in his third run of
the game on a groundout. Cade Brown then homered.

The Larks added two in the eighth for the final margin.

Starting pitcher Jake Fitzgibbons (2-0) struck out 13 over
five innings and picked up the win. Fitzgibbons first six outs were by strikeout
but was hurt by five walks. He allowed four runs on five hits. Trever Munsch allowed
one run in two innings of relief before Derek Decolati pitched the final two
innings to close out the game.

Divis finished 3-for-4 with four RBIs and four runs scored.
Schmidt added two doubles and Hutchison drove in three runs.

Derek Decolati gave up one unearned run on one hit with one
strikeout and one walk in his Larks debut. Decolati is a right-handed reliever
from South Mountain CC in Arizona and is headed the University of Nevada.

The Larks hit three home runs Sunday, pushing their season
total to 35. They hit two in a five-run seventh. It’s the fifth time this
summer they’ve hit two home run in an inning.

The Larks and Foxes play the third game of the four-game
series at Larks Park. Admission is free courtesy of Hickok’s Steakhouse, Freddy’s
Frozen Custard and Steakburgers and Commerce Bank.

HAYS – Wyatt Divis had three hits including one of the Larks three home runs to help Hays to a 14-6 win over the Fort Collins Foxes Sunday at Larks
Park. Divis finished 3-for-4 with four RBIs and four runs scored as the Larks ran their winning streak to six games and increased their lead atop the Rocky Mountain
Baseball League.<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/1085905246&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-814667509/07-11-21-hays-larks-coach-int" title="Frank Leo Postgame vs. Fort Collins Foxes (July 11, 2021)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Frank Leo Postgame vs. Fort Collins Foxes (July 11, 2021)</a></div></div>The Larks (18-4, 8-2 RMBL) struck early, scoring four in the
bottom of the first and had a 6-0 lead after two innings. The Foxes (10-11, 8-7
RMBL) pulled within two twice but a five-run seventh blew the game open for Hays.Divis got the scoring started with an RBI single in the
first. Grant Schmidt added a run-scoring double then Palmer Hutchison a two-run
single. Divis added a two-run homer in the second to push the lead to 6-0.<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/1085905159&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-814667509/07-11-21-hays-larks-highlights" title="Hays Larks vs. Fort Collins Foxes Highlights (July 11, 2021)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays Larks vs. Fort Collins Foxes Highlights (July 11, 2021)</a></div></div>The Larks blew open a two-run game with five runs in the seventh.
Divis drove in the first with a single then Cortland Lawson added a two-run homer.
Following a Grant Schmidt double, Palmer Hutchison drove in his third run of
the game on a groundout. Cade Brown then homered.The Larks added two in the eighth for the final margin.Starting pitcher Jake Fitzgibbons (2-0) struck out 13 over
five innings and picked up the win. Fitzgibbons first six outs were by strikeout
but was hurt by five walks. He allowed four runs on five hits. Trever Munsch allowed
one run in two innings of relief before Derek Decolati pitched the final two
innings to close out the game.Divis finished 3-for-4 with four RBIs and four runs scored.
Schmidt added two doubles and Hutchison drove in three runs.NEWEST LARKDerek Decolati gave up one unearned run on one hit with one
strikeout and one walk in his Larks debut. Decolati is a right-handed reliever
from South Mountain CC in Arizona and is headed the University of Nevada.LONG BALLThe Larks hit three home runs Sunday, pushing their season
total to 35. They hit two in a five-run seventh. It’s the fifth time this
summer they’ve hit two home run in an inning.UP NEXTThe Larks and Foxes play the third game of the four-game
series at Larks Park. Admission is free courtesy of Hickok’s Steakhouse, Freddy’s
Frozen Custard and Steakburgers and Commerce Bank.

⚾ Larks use long ball to defeat Foxes

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -&nbsp; The Kansas City Royals have selected&nbsp;Frank Mozzicato, a left-handed pitcher from East Catholic High School (Conn.), with the seventh overall pick in the 2021 First-Year Player Draft.

He is the fourth player chosen seventh overall in Royals history and first since 1999. This marks the third time in the last four years that the Royals have selected a pitcher with their first pick, following&nbsp;Asa Lacy&nbsp;(4th&nbsp;overall) in 2020 and&nbsp;Brady Singer&nbsp;(18th&nbsp;overall) in 2018.

Mozzicato, 18, is committed to the University of Connecticut.

The Royals’ next pick will come Monday in the second round (43rd&nbsp;overall). Day two of the draft will begin at 12:00 p.m. CT on MLB.com.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -&nbsp; The Kansas City Royals have selected&nbsp;Frank Mozzicato, a left-handed pitcher from East Catholic High School (Conn.), with the seventh overall pick in the 2021 First-Year Player Draft.He is the fourth player chosen seventh overall in Royals history and first since 1999. This marks the third time in the last four years that the Royals have selected a pitcher with their first pick, following&nbsp;Asa Lacy&nbsp;(4th&nbsp;overall) in 2020 and&nbsp;Brady Singer&nbsp;(18th&nbsp;overall) in 2018.Mozzicato, 18, is committed to the University of Connecticut.The Royals’ next pick will come Monday in the second round (43rd&nbsp;overall). Day two of the draft will begin at 12:00 p.m. CT on MLB.com.Kansas City Royals

⚾ Royals select LHP Frank Mozzicato in first round of 2021 draft

CLEVELAND (AP) — César Hernández and Óscar Mercado each hit a three-run homer, and the Cleveland Indians beat the struggling Kansas City Royals 14-6 on Saturday night.

Hernández's 15th homer capped a six-run fourth inning against Mike Minor (6-8). Mercado's drive highlighted a four-run seventh that put the game away.

Cleveland staggered into the series on a nine-game losing streak, but won the first two games on ninth-inning homers by Franmil Reyes on Thursday and Bobby Bradley on Friday. The Indians have beaten the Royals eight straight times this season.

The Royals have dropped 15 of 18 to fall a season-worst 17 games under .500.

Mercado had three hits and drove in four runs. José Ramírez and Roberto Pérez also homered for Cleveland, which totaled 17 hits.

Cal Quantrill (1-2), one of several pitchers trying to give Cleveland's injury-riddled rotation a boost, allowed three runs in six innings.

All-Star catcher Salvador Pérez hit a two-run homer in the fourth for Kansas City, but Cleveland finally had success against Minor in the bottom half.

Bradley hit an RBI double and Mercado's run-scoring single tied the game. Bradley Zimmer's hard grounder off Minor's leg went for an RBI single.

Hernandez followed with a drive to left-center, giving Cleveland a 6-2 lead.

Minor had dominated the Indians in his career, going 3-0 and allowing four earned runs in 28 2/3 innings over nine appearances. The left-hander gave up six runs and nine hits in four innings.

Perez warmed up for his matchup in Monday's All-Star Home Run Derby against Pete Alonso of the New York Mets with his 21st of the season. Alonso won the most recent derby in Cleveland in 2019.

Pérez was replaced behind the plate by Sebastian Rivero in the sixth inning. Kansas City scored three times in the seventh, but Rivero grounded out with two on to end the inning.

Royals reliever Kyle Zimmer struck out his brother, Bradley, in the seventh in the first major league matchup between the two.

Indians manager Terry Francona said right-hander Shane Bieber felt some "crankiness" in his sore shoulder while throwing with weighted balls Friday.

"The hard part right now with it is, is the amount of work they do with their shoulder is obviously intense and a lot," Francona said. "Then when you take some time off, some of the muscles can get a little cranky. So now you're starting up again and it's like OK what's cranky — so trying to determine that. But then today he came in and he felt like he was gonna have a better day, which is good."

Bieber, the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, has been sidelined since June 14.

Royals second baseman Whit Merrifield, who was voted in by the players ballot, will replace Jose Altuve in Tuesday's All-Star Game in Denver.

"It's an incredible honor to be voted in by my fellow players," Merrifield said. "It means the most, frankly. The fan vote is great and we appreciate all the support we get from the fans but nobody knows what this game is like more than the players."

Royals: 1B Carlos Santana injured his left wrist in the first inning but remained in the game. Third baseman Hunter Dozier's throw on a bunt hit pulled Santana into the path of Hernández. Santana was checked by a trainer.

Rookie RHP Eli Morgan (1-3) will start the final game before the All-Star break for the Indians. The Royals have yet to announce their starter for Sunday's matchup.

CLEVELAND (AP) — César Hernández and Óscar Mercado each hit a three-run homer, and the Cleveland Indians beat the struggling Kansas City Royals 14-6 on Saturday night.Hernández's 15th homer capped a six-run fourth inning against Mike Minor (6-8). Mercado's drive highlighted a four-run seventh that put the game away.Cleveland staggered into the series on a nine-game losing streak, but won the first two games on ninth-inning homers by Franmil Reyes on Thursday and Bobby Bradley on Friday. The Indians have beaten the Royals eight straight times this season.The Royals have dropped 15 of 18 to fall a season-worst 17 games under .500.Mercado had three hits and drove in four runs. José Ramírez and Roberto Pérez also homered for Cleveland, which totaled 17 hits.Cal Quantrill (1-2), one of several pitchers trying to give Cleveland's injury-riddled rotation a boost, allowed three runs in six innings.All-Star catcher Salvador Pérez hit a two-run homer in the fourth for Kansas City, but Cleveland finally had success against Minor in the bottom half.Bradley hit an RBI double and Mercado's run-scoring single tied the game. Bradley Zimmer's hard grounder off Minor's leg went for an RBI single.Hernandez followed with a drive to left-center, giving Cleveland a 6-2 lead.Minor had dominated the Indians in his career, going 3-0 and allowing four earned runs in 28 2/3 innings over nine appearances. The left-hander gave up six runs and nine hits in four innings.Perez warmed up for his matchup in Monday's All-Star Home Run Derby against Pete Alonso of the New York Mets with his 21st of the season. Alonso won the most recent derby in Cleveland in 2019.Pérez was replaced behind the plate by Sebastian Rivero in the sixth inning. Kansas City scored three times in the seventh, but Rivero grounded out with two on to end the inning.Royals reliever Kyle Zimmer struck out his brother, Bradley, in the seventh in the first major league matchup between the two.BIEBER UPDATEIndians manager Terry Francona said right-hander Shane Bieber felt some "crankiness" in his sore shoulder while throwing with weighted balls Friday."The hard part right now with it is, is the amount of work they do with their shoulder is obviously intense and a lot," Francona said. "Then when you take some time off, some of the muscles can get a little cranky. So now you're starting up again and it's like OK what's cranky — so trying to determine that. But then today he came in and he felt like he was gonna have a better day, which is good."Bieber, the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, has been sidelined since June 14.WHIT'S A STARRoyals second baseman Whit Merrifield, who was voted in by the players ballot, will replace Jose Altuve in Tuesday's All-Star Game in Denver."It's an incredible honor to be voted in by my fellow players," Merrifield said. "It means the most, frankly. The fan vote is great and we appreciate all the support we get from the fans but nobody knows what this game is like more than the players."TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: 1B Carlos Santana injured his left wrist in the first inning but remained in the game. Third baseman Hunter Dozier's throw on a bunt hit pulled Santana into the path of Hernández. Santana was checked by a trainer.UP NEXTRookie RHP Eli Morgan (1-3) will start the final game before the All-Star break for the Indians. The Royals have yet to announce their starter for Sunday's matchup.

⚾ Royals allow seventeen hits in loss to Cleveland

HAYS – Tyler Palmer hit two home runs and drove in four runs
to lead the Hays Larks to a 12-2, seven inning run-rule victory over the Fort
Collins Foxes Saturday evening at Larks Park.

The Larks extend their winning streak to five games and improves
to 17-4 and 7-2 in the Rocky Mountain Baseball League where they are alone in
first place. The Foxes have lost three straight and six of their last seven and
dropped to 10-10-10 and 8-6 in the RMBL.

Palmer hit a two-run homer in the Larks six-run second which
gave them the lead for good. &nbsp;Grant
Schmidt drove in the first run with a double. Sam Crowell then followed with a
two-run single. Leo Jiminian also drove in run with a single. Palmer added a
two-run homer in the fourth.

The put the game away with a three-run sixth on RBIs from Matt
Cavanagh and Cortland Lawson.

Wyatt Divis pitched four innings of two-hit relief and
picked up the win. Divis struck out four and walked one and allowed one run.

The Larks and Foxes continue their key four-game Rocky Mountain
Baseball League series Sunday night at 7:00 p.m. at Larks Park. Admission is
free courtesy of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, Sternberg Museum of
Natural History and the Downtown Hays Development Corporation.

You can also hear the game on KAYS (1400-AM, 94.3-FM).

HAYS – Tyler Palmer hit two home runs and drove in four runs
to lead the Hays Larks to a 12-2, seven inning run-rule victory over the Fort
Collins Foxes Saturday evening at Larks Park.The Larks extend their winning streak to five games and improves
to 17-4 and 7-2 in the Rocky Mountain Baseball League where they are alone in
first place. The Foxes have lost three straight and six of their last seven and
dropped to 10-10-10 and 8-6 in the RMBL.Palmer hit a two-run homer in the Larks six-run second which
gave them the lead for good. &nbsp;Grant
Schmidt drove in the first run with a double. Sam Crowell then followed with a
two-run single. Leo Jiminian also drove in run with a single. Palmer added a
two-run homer in the fourth.The put the game away with a three-run sixth on RBIs from Matt
Cavanagh and Cortland Lawson.Wyatt Divis pitched four innings of two-hit relief and
picked up the win. Divis struck out four and walked one and allowed one run.UP NEXTThe Larks and Foxes continue their key four-game Rocky Mountain
Baseball League series Sunday night at 7:00 p.m. at Larks Park. Admission is
free courtesy of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, Sternberg Museum of
Natural History and the Downtown Hays Development Corporation.You can also hear the game on KAYS (1400-AM, 94.3-FM).

⚾ Big inning carries Larks past Foxes

&nbsp;Kansas City Royals infielder/outfielder Whit Merrifield has been named to his second All-Star Game, Major League Baseball announced this morning. Merrifield, who also participated in the 2019 Midsummer Classic, will join Salvador Perez, representing the Royals at the 91st All-Star Game, set for Tuesday, July 13 at Coors Field in Denver, Colorado. Merrifield becomes the 14th Royals position player selected to multiple All-Star Games. He entered the day leading the Major Leagues in stolen bases (24), swiping 24-straight since being caught on his first attempt of the season. He’s also tied for eighth in the American League in hits (95), tied for 11th in multi-hit games (26) and doubles (20). The right-handed hitter enjoyed his best month of the season in June, being named Royals Player of the Month, after leading the Majors with 40 hits – the most of any month of his career – becoming the first Royal to record 40 hits in a calendar month since Jon Jay (43) in May 2018. He was also the first Royal to lead the Majors in hits in any calendar month since Johnny Damon (51) did so in July 2000. Last night, he appeared in his 395th consecutive game, which is just 26 games shy of the franchise record, held by Alcides Escobar (421).

&nbsp;Kansas City Royals infielder/outfielder Whit Merrifield has been named to his second All-Star Game, Major League Baseball announced this morning. Merrifield, who also participated in the 2019 Midsummer Classic, will join Salvador Perez, representing the Royals at the 91st All-Star Game, set for Tuesday, July 13 at Coors Field in Denver, Colorado. Merrifield becomes the 14th Royals position player selected to multiple All-Star Games. He entered the day leading the Major Leagues in stolen bases (24), swiping 24-straight since being caught on his first attempt of the season. He’s also tied for eighth in the American League in hits (95), tied for 11th in multi-hit games (26) and doubles (20). The right-handed hitter enjoyed his best month of the season in June, being named Royals Player of the Month, after leading the Majors with 40 hits – the most of any month of his career – becoming the first Royal to record 40 hits in a calendar month since Jon Jay (43) in May 2018. He was also the first Royal to lead the Majors in hits in any calendar month since Johnny Damon (51) did so in July 2000. Last night, he appeared in his 395th consecutive game, which is just 26 games shy of the franchise record, held by Alcides Escobar (421).Kansas City Royals

⚾ Whit Merrifield selected to American League All-Star Team

CLEVELAND (AP) — Exiled to the clubhouse after being ejected, Indians manager Terry Francona heard a loud rumble.

Bobby Bradley made Progressive Field rock.

Bradley homered leading off the ninth inning as Cleveland overcame some brutal baserunning that led to a crazy play at third base and Francona getting tossed in a wild 2-1 win over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night.

Bradley drove a 1-2 pitch from Jake Brentz (2-2) over the wall in right-center for his 10th homer as the Indians got their second straight walk-off win at home, touching off a celebration in the stands and at home plate.

“Because when you come in here, everything is delayed by about eight or 10 seconds,” he said. "I ran to the TV, and Bobby is standing there in the batter’s box. Then about two seconds later, I saw why."

"That was a very nice little surprise.”

It was quite a moment for Bradley, who has given Cleveland's lineup some pop since he was brought up from the minors. His heroics came a day after Franmil Reyes' three-run homer in the ninth ended the Indians' nine-game losing streak.

“It’s just baseball at the end of the day, and sometimes it goes your way and sometimes it doesn’t,” said Bradley, who also homered Thursday. "And unfortunately during the nine-game streak, things weren’t going our way, but we never gave up. That’s where we’re at now, just staying in that mindset that we’ve got to fight.”

James Karinchak (6-2) got his second win in two nights, steering around a leadoff double in the ninth.

Jorge Soler homered for the Royals, who have dropped 14 of 17 to fall a season-worst 16 games under .500.

Cleveland got a terrific start from Triston McKenzie, who struck out nine in a career-high seven innings.

Before Bradley's big swing, the Indians were positioned to break a 1-1 tie in eighth — but literally ran themselves out of the inning.

Daniel Johnson led off with a soft liner off Royals starter Brad Keller that fell between outfielders Andrew Benintendi and Michael A. Taylor and went to second on a throwing error.

César Hernández followed with a single to get Johnson to third, and that's where the fun started.

Amed Rosario hit a grounder to Royals shortstop Nicky Lopez, who trapped Johnson in a rundown between home and third. Johnson stayed alive long enough for Hernández to get to third.

But as both were being tagged by Royals All-Star catcher Salvador Perez, Johnson, who was entitled to the base, stepped off and third base umpire James Hoye called both runners out.

Francona asked for an explanation on the odd double play. And when he didn't like what he heard, Francona profanely laid into Hoye before being ejected for the first time this season.

“There’s a couple ways to go there, and I don’t think they got it right,” Francona said.

“I probably said some things that I didn’t mean, but it’s a tough play especially in that situation in the game,” he said.

As the play unfolded, Keller, who allowed just one run and four hits in 7.2 innings, wasn't sure what he was seeing.

“I think my jaw was on the ground the whole time,” the right-hander said. “I've been playing baseball my whole life, and I still don't know the rule. I've never seen it happen before, and I'm thankful it happened."

McKenzie blanked the Royals on just one hit. The 23-year-old, who has spent the season yo-yoing back and forth from the minors, was at 85 pitches when Francona turned things over to his bullpen in the eighth.

Emmanuel Clase couldn't protect the lead or McKenzie's win, however, as Soler mashed an 0-1 pitch over the wall in left to tie it 1-1.

McKenzie's solid outing was the just the second time in 26 games that Cleveland, whose rotation has been shredded by injuries all season, had a starter go six innings.

“That was so exciting,” Francona said. “In fact, when he came out of the game, I might’ve hurt him I hit him so hard.”

The Indians acquired right-hander Damon Casetta-Stubbs from Seattle to complete the June 10 trade that sent first baseman Jake Bauers to the Mariners. The 21-year-old has been pitching in A ball.

Santana homered twice against the Indians on Thursday, his first homers against his former team. He has now homered against 29 of 30 active franchises. The only exception are the Dodgers, who originally signed him in 2004.

Indians: RHP Shane Bieber began throwing with weighted balls as he continues to recover from shoulder soreness. The reigning AL Cy Young winner will be further evaluated over the weekend, and the medical staff will decide what's next. He's been sidelined since June 14. ... OF Jordan Luplow (sprained ankle) is scheduled to start playing in games in Arizona next week and will go to Triple-A Columbus before a possible return.

Indians RHP Cal Quantrill (0-2) will start Saturday against Royals RHP Mike Minor (6-7), who is 3-0 with a 1.26 ERA in nine appearances against Cleveland.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Exiled to the clubhouse after being ejected, Indians manager Terry Francona heard a loud rumble.Bobby Bradley made Progressive Field rock.Bradley homered leading off the ninth inning as Cleveland overcame some brutal baserunning that led to a crazy play at third base and Francona getting tossed in a wild 2-1 win over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night.Bradley drove a 1-2 pitch from Jake Brentz (2-2) over the wall in right-center for his 10th homer as the Indians got their second straight walk-off win at home, touching off a celebration in the stands and at home plate.Francona didn't get to see it live.“Because when you come in here, everything is delayed by about eight or 10 seconds,” he said. "I ran to the TV, and Bobby is standing there in the batter’s box. Then about two seconds later, I saw why.""That was a very nice little surprise.”It was quite a moment for Bradley, who has given Cleveland's lineup some pop since he was brought up from the minors. His heroics came a day after Franmil Reyes' three-run homer in the ninth ended the Indians' nine-game losing streak.“It’s just baseball at the end of the day, and sometimes it goes your way and sometimes it doesn’t,” said Bradley, who also homered Thursday. "And unfortunately during the nine-game streak, things weren’t going our way, but we never gave up. That’s where we’re at now, just staying in that mindset that we’ve got to fight.”James Karinchak (6-2) got his second win in two nights, steering around a leadoff double in the ninth.Jorge Soler homered for the Royals, who have dropped 14 of 17 to fall a season-worst 16 games under .500.Cleveland got a terrific start from Triston McKenzie, who struck out nine in a career-high seven innings.Before Bradley's big swing, the Indians were positioned to break a 1-1 tie in eighth — but literally ran themselves out of the inning.Daniel Johnson led off with a soft liner off Royals starter Brad Keller that fell between outfielders Andrew Benintendi and Michael A. Taylor and went to second on a throwing error.César Hernández followed with a single to get Johnson to third, and that's where the fun started.Amed Rosario hit a grounder to Royals shortstop Nicky Lopez, who trapped Johnson in a rundown between home and third. Johnson stayed alive long enough for Hernández to get to third.But as both were being tagged by Royals All-Star catcher Salvador Perez, Johnson, who was entitled to the base, stepped off and third base umpire James Hoye called both runners out.Francona asked for an explanation on the odd double play. And when he didn't like what he heard, Francona profanely laid into Hoye before being ejected for the first time this season.“There’s a couple ways to go there, and I don’t think they got it right,” Francona said.“I probably said some things that I didn’t mean, but it’s a tough play especially in that situation in the game,” he said.As the play unfolded, Keller, who allowed just one run and four hits in 7.2 innings, wasn't sure what he was seeing.“I think my jaw was on the ground the whole time,” the right-hander said. “I've been playing baseball my whole life, and I still don't know the rule. I've never seen it happen before, and I'm thankful it happened."McKenzie blanked the Royals on just one hit. The 23-year-old, who has spent the season yo-yoing back and forth from the minors, was at 85 pitches when Francona turned things over to his bullpen in the eighth.Emmanuel Clase couldn't protect the lead or McKenzie's win, however, as Soler mashed an 0-1 pitch over the wall in left to tie it 1-1.McKenzie's solid outing was the just the second time in 26 games that Cleveland, whose rotation has been shredded by injuries all season, had a starter go six innings.“That was so exciting,” Francona said. “In fact, when he came out of the game, I might’ve hurt him I hit him so hard.”TRADE DONEThe Indians acquired right-hander Damon Casetta-Stubbs from Seattle to complete the June 10 trade that sent first baseman Jake Bauers to the Mariners. The 21-year-old has been pitching in A ball.ONE TO GOSantana homered twice against the Indians on Thursday, his first homers against his former team. He has now homered against 29 of 30 active franchises. The only exception are the Dodgers, who originally signed him in 2004.TRAINER'S ROOMIndians: RHP Shane Bieber began throwing with weighted balls as he continues to recover from shoulder soreness. The reigning AL Cy Young winner will be further evaluated over the weekend, and the medical staff will decide what's next. He's been sidelined since June 14. ... OF Jordan Luplow (sprained ankle) is scheduled to start playing in games in Arizona next week and will go to Triple-A Columbus before a possible return.UP NEXTIndians RHP Cal Quantrill (0-2) will start Saturday against Royals RHP Mike Minor (6-7), who is 3-0 with a 1.26 ERA in nine appearances against Cleveland.

⚾ Royals fall in walk-off fashion for second straight game, lose to Indians

Former Fort Hays State baseball coach Vern Henricks chats about his time at Fort Hays State.

Former Fort Hays State baseball coach Vern Henricks chats about his time at Fort Hays State.<div><iframe title="Vern Henricks" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=3vzjm-1084ae0-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: Vern Henricks

CLEVELAND (AP) — As Franmil Reyes stood waiting in the on-deck circle, he silently begged for a chance to end Cleveland's losing streak.

Reyes hit a three-run homer with two outs in the ninth inning as the Indians stopped a nine-game losing streak — their longest under manager Terry Francona — with a 7-4 win over the Kansas City Royals on Thursday night.

After Royals manager Mike Matheny elected to have reliever Greg Holland (2-4) walk the dangerous José Ramírez to put runners at first and second, Reyes walked to the plate intent on making Kansas City pay.

“I went there almost like hoping they’d walk José,” Reyes said. “I was like, ‘Please, walk him. Give me this shot. I want it.’ And I get a pitch. There it is.”

Reyes' 14th homer set off a wild celebration by the Indians, who doused the slugger with water when he reached home plate. The win eases some recent pain for the Indians, who had been collapsing amid a slew of injuries and little offense.

Before Reyes' blow, Roberto Pérez came through in the clutch with a three-run homer in the eighth to give the Indians a 4-3 lead and new life.

“We're not going to give up,” said Reyes, who recently returned after a long stint on the injured list and has homered in three straight games. “You see right there, we were losing, Bebo (Pérez) up with the big home run. That shows you guys and everybody that we’re not going to give up.”

Carlos Santana homered twice for the Royals, with his second shot tying it 4-4 in the ninth off James Karinchak (5-2), who wound up getting the win after blowing a save.

Bobby Bradley also homered for the Indians, who won for the first time since June 28. For a while, it looked as if Cleveland might extend its longest losing streak since an 11-gamer in 2012.

“I actually didn’t care how he won. Just the fact, we needed to win a game," said Francona, who has spent the entire season working around key injuries, including the loss of his top three starters. “And it was a hard one to win. But we won it.”

With the Indians badly in need of a big hit, Pérez gave them one, connecting off Scott Barlow to give Cleveland a 4-3 lead. After circling the bases, Pérez was met before he reached the dugout by several teammates.

But the euphoria didn't last long as Santana, who played 10 seasons in Cleveland before signing with Kansas City as a free agent last winter, connected for his second homer.

Hunter Dozier also homered for the Royals, who have been on their own skid and have lost 13 of 16.

Santana and Dozier connected for solo homers in the fourth off Zach Plesac, who returned from the injured list to Cleveland’s rotation after bizarrely breaking his right thumb and missing nearly six weeks.

Plesac wasn't bad, allowing three runs — two on homers — and five hits in four innings while on a pitch count in his first start since May 23.

“It was nice having him back,” Francona said.

The Indians were no-hit by five Tampa pitchers over seven innings Wednesday in Game 2 while being swept in a doubleheader. They finally got their first hit in 11 innings over three games when Oscar Mercado led off the third with a double off Danny Duffy that was initially ruled foul but changed after a video review.

Cleveland has been on the wrong side of two other no-hitters this season.

The left-hander was in line for his first win since May 1 before the Indians rallied against Kansas City's normally reliable bullpen.

But Duffy was pleased with his outing (one run in five innings) and feels stronger after missing time with a forearm strain.

“It just didn't fall our way tonight,” he said. “But I'll put our guys about against anybody. We all have confidence in each other and we're going to come out of this little funk."

The Indians have won six straight over the Royals. ... Kansas dropped to a season-high 15 games under .500 and has lost 25 of its last 32 games since June 5. ... Santana had his 11th career two-homer game and first since Aug. 15, 2019 for the Indians. ... Santana has 111 homers are Progressive Field, trailing only Jim Thome (190) and Manny Ramirez (132) for the most in the ballpark.

Royals: C Cam Gallagher (shoulder) began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha. He hasn't played with Kansas City since June 16.

As the Indians continue to make pitching plans on the fly due to injuries, RHP Triston McKenzie will be recalled from Triple-A Columbus to start Friday's game against Royals RHP Brad Keller.

CLEVELAND (AP) — As Franmil Reyes stood waiting in the on-deck circle, he silently begged for a chance to end Cleveland's losing streak.He got his wish.Reyes hit a three-run homer with two outs in the ninth inning as the Indians stopped a nine-game losing streak — their longest under manager Terry Francona — with a 7-4 win over the Kansas City Royals on Thursday night.After Royals manager Mike Matheny elected to have reliever Greg Holland (2-4) walk the dangerous José Ramírez to put runners at first and second, Reyes walked to the plate intent on making Kansas City pay.“I went there almost like hoping they’d walk José,” Reyes said. “I was like, ‘Please, walk him. Give me this shot. I want it.’ And I get a pitch. There it is.”Reyes' 14th homer set off a wild celebration by the Indians, who doused the slugger with water when he reached home plate. The win eases some recent pain for the Indians, who had been collapsing amid a slew of injuries and little offense.Before Reyes' blow, Roberto Pérez came through in the clutch with a three-run homer in the eighth to give the Indians a 4-3 lead and new life.“We're not going to give up,” said Reyes, who recently returned after a long stint on the injured list and has homered in three straight games. “You see right there, we were losing, Bebo (Pérez) up with the big home run. That shows you guys and everybody that we’re not going to give up.”Carlos Santana homered twice for the Royals, with his second shot tying it 4-4 in the ninth off James Karinchak (5-2), who wound up getting the win after blowing a save.Bobby Bradley also homered for the Indians, who won for the first time since June 28. For a while, it looked as if Cleveland might extend its longest losing streak since an 11-gamer in 2012.“I actually didn’t care how he won. Just the fact, we needed to win a game," said Francona, who has spent the entire season working around key injuries, including the loss of his top three starters. “And it was a hard one to win. But we won it.”With the Indians badly in need of a big hit, Pérez gave them one, connecting off Scott Barlow to give Cleveland a 4-3 lead. After circling the bases, Pérez was met before he reached the dugout by several teammates.But the euphoria didn't last long as Santana, who played 10 seasons in Cleveland before signing with Kansas City as a free agent last winter, connected for his second homer.Hunter Dozier also homered for the Royals, who have been on their own skid and have lost 13 of 16.Santana and Dozier connected for solo homers in the fourth off Zach Plesac, who returned from the injured list to Cleveland’s rotation after bizarrely breaking his right thumb and missing nearly six weeks.Plesac wasn't bad, allowing three runs — two on homers — and five hits in four innings while on a pitch count in his first start since May 23.“It was nice having him back,” Francona said.The Indians were no-hit by five Tampa pitchers over seven innings Wednesday in Game 2 while being swept in a doubleheader. They finally got their first hit in 11 innings over three games when Oscar Mercado led off the third with a double off Danny Duffy that was initially ruled foul but changed after a video review.Cleveland has been on the wrong side of two other no-hitters this season.DUFFY'S DAYThe left-hander was in line for his first win since May 1 before the Indians rallied against Kansas City's normally reliable bullpen.But Duffy was pleased with his outing (one run in five innings) and feels stronger after missing time with a forearm strain.“It just didn't fall our way tonight,” he said. “But I'll put our guys about against anybody. We all have confidence in each other and we're going to come out of this little funk."ODDS &amp; ENDSThe Indians have won six straight over the Royals. ... Kansas dropped to a season-high 15 games under .500 and has lost 25 of its last 32 games since June 5. ... Santana had his 11th career two-homer game and first since Aug. 15, 2019 for the Indians. ... Santana has 111 homers are Progressive Field, trailing only Jim Thome (190) and Manny Ramirez (132) for the most in the ballpark.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: C Cam Gallagher (shoulder) began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha. He hasn't played with Kansas City since June 16.UP NEXTAs the Indians continue to make pitching plans on the fly due to injuries, RHP Triston McKenzie will be recalled from Triple-A Columbus to start Friday's game against Royals RHP Brad Keller.

⚾ Barlow blows save, Holland allows walk-off homer as Royals fall to Indians

JUNCTION CITY – The Hays Larks
closed out their final road trip of the regular season with a 6-4 win over the
Junction City Brigade Wednesday night at Rathert Stadium. The Larks scored five
of their six runs after the sixth inning to run their winning streak to four
games.

The Larks (16-4) scored two in
the seventh on a Wyatt Divis single and Cortland Lawson groundout to build a
3-0 lead. Junction City answered with three in the bottom of the inning to tie
the game at 3-3. The Brigade opened the inning with two straight singles
followed by a double, a strikeout the two singles.

The Larks took back the lead
for good with two runs in the eighth, scoring on a passed ball and groundout.

Both teams scored in the
ninth. The Larks got a two-out single from Zach Henry which scored Grant
Schmidt. Jackson Jones drew a leadoff walk for the Brigade then later scored on
a sacrifice fly. Junction City had the tying run at second but Jose Velazquez
got a groundout to end the game and picked up the save.

Cade Brown (2-0) pitched two scoreless
innings of relief with four strikeouts and no walks and picked up the win. Starter
Hunter Parker allowed three runs on five hits with seven strikeouts and no
walks over six innings.

Matt Cavanaugh and Wyatt Divis
both had two hits. Divis drove in two runs. Cavanaugh, Brock Lummus and Grant
Schmidt all hit doubles.

The Larks are off until
Saturday when they open an key four-game series with the Fort Collins Foxes at
Larks Park. The Larks and Foxes are in a virtual tie for first place atop the
Rocky Mountain Baseball League.

JUNCTION CITY – The Hays Larks
closed out their final road trip of the regular season with a 6-4 win over the
Junction City Brigade Wednesday night at Rathert Stadium. The Larks scored five
of their six runs after the sixth inning to run their winning streak to four
games.The Larks (16-4) scored two in
the seventh on a Wyatt Divis single and Cortland Lawson groundout to build a
3-0 lead. Junction City answered with three in the bottom of the inning to tie
the game at 3-3. The Brigade opened the inning with two straight singles
followed by a double, a strikeout the two singles.The Larks took back the lead
for good with two runs in the eighth, scoring on a passed ball and groundout.Both teams scored in the
ninth. The Larks got a two-out single from Zach Henry which scored Grant
Schmidt. Jackson Jones drew a leadoff walk for the Brigade then later scored on
a sacrifice fly. Junction City had the tying run at second but Jose Velazquez
got a groundout to end the game and picked up the save.Cade Brown (2-0) pitched two scoreless
innings of relief with four strikeouts and no walks and picked up the win. Starter
Hunter Parker allowed three runs on five hits with seven strikeouts and no
walks over six innings.Matt Cavanaugh and Wyatt Divis
both had two hits. Divis drove in two runs. Cavanaugh, Brock Lummus and Grant
Schmidt all hit doubles.UP NEXTThe Larks are off until
Saturday when they open an key four-game series with the Fort Collins Foxes at
Larks Park. The Larks and Foxes are in a virtual tie for first place atop the
Rocky Mountain Baseball League.

⚾ Larks hold off Brigade for fourth straight win

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Sonny Gray gave up two runs over seven innings, and Jonathan India hit a two-run double as the Cincinnati Reds rallied for three runs in the seventh inning and beat the Kansas City Royals 5-2 on Wednesday.

Gray (2-4) allowed seven hits, struck out seven and walked two to end a three-start winless streak.

“It was a hot day. He was battling," Cincinnati manager David Bell said. “And probably around the fourth inning or so, I didn’t know how much more he had left. It really does speak to number one, how great of a competitor he is. He found a way, and in that process of finding a way to kind of gather himself and get back out there.”

“I feel like I definitely had an edge, maybe I was just trying to fake it until I could make it,” he said. “I tried all my tricks to get my nerves gone and I guess they just slowly went away where I could just go.”

A day after blowing a 6-1 lead entering the eighth inning, the Reds bullpen came through.

“Every now and then, sometimes a win is maybe a little bit more than a win, and maybe today was one of those days,” Bell said.

Art Warren stranded the bases loaded in the eighth by retiring Hunter Dozier on an inning-ending flyout to deep left.

“As soon as he hit it, I thought it was gone,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “It didn’t sound good when it came off the bat, but it looked right. We were probably wishing it out of the ballpark as much as anything, but it was so close to being what we were looking for.”

Heath Hembree pitched a perfect ninth for his fourth save in five chances, helping the Reds to their second win in the three-game series.

The game was interrupted by rain for 1 hour, 12 minutes.

Jorge Soler put the Royals ahead in the fourth with a slow roller to third with one out and two on. Eugenio Suárez threw to second for a forceout but India, the second baseman, hit the helmet of Ryan O’Hearn as he threw to first trying for an inning-ending double play. The ball popped into the air, and by the time the ball was retrieved, Carlos Santana slid home ahead of the throw.

Singles by Dozier and Michael A. Taylor led to a 2-0 lead.

Cincinnati went ahead in the seventh after Tucker Barnhart singled off Brady Singer and Scott Barlow (2-3) relieved.

Shogo Akiyama and Mike Freeman singled, cutting the deficit, and India doubled for a 3-2 lead.

Akiyama added an RBI double in the eighth, and Tyler Naquin hit an RBI single in the ninth.

Singer gave up one run and five hits in six-plus innings.

“He had great tempo,” Matheny said. “His slider was sharp. His fastball was locating on both sides. He had a lot of movement today. You could tell by a lot of their reactions. I thought he did a great job of pounding the zone and trusting his defense.”

Reds: RHP Tyler Mahle (7-3, 3.63 ERA) starts Thursday’s series opener at NL Central-leading Milwaukee and RHP Adrian Houser (5-5, 3.94 ERA).

Royals: LHP Danny Duffy (4-3, 2.60 ERA), seeking his first win since May 1, starts Thursday at Cleveland. He is 5-13 with a 4.81 ERA in 21 starts and four relief appearances against the Indians, his most losses against any opponent.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Sonny Gray gave up two runs over seven innings, and Jonathan India hit a two-run double as the Cincinnati Reds rallied for three runs in the seventh inning and beat the Kansas City Royals 5-2 on Wednesday.Gray (2-4) allowed seven hits, struck out seven and walked two to end a three-start winless streak.“It was a hot day. He was battling," Cincinnati manager David Bell said. “And probably around the fourth inning or so, I didn’t know how much more he had left. It really does speak to number one, how great of a competitor he is. He found a way, and in that process of finding a way to kind of gather himself and get back out there.”Gray said he woke up feeling sick.“I feel like I definitely had an edge, maybe I was just trying to fake it until I could make it,” he said. “I tried all my tricks to get my nerves gone and I guess they just slowly went away where I could just go.”A day after blowing a 6-1 lead entering the eighth inning, the Reds bullpen came through.“Every now and then, sometimes a win is maybe a little bit more than a win, and maybe today was one of those days,” Bell said.Art Warren stranded the bases loaded in the eighth by retiring Hunter Dozier on an inning-ending flyout to deep left.“As soon as he hit it, I thought it was gone,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “It didn’t sound good when it came off the bat, but it looked right. We were probably wishing it out of the ballpark as much as anything, but it was so close to being what we were looking for.”Heath Hembree pitched a perfect ninth for his fourth save in five chances, helping the Reds to their second win in the three-game series.The game was interrupted by rain for 1 hour, 12 minutes.Jorge Soler put the Royals ahead in the fourth with a slow roller to third with one out and two on. Eugenio Suárez threw to second for a forceout but India, the second baseman, hit the helmet of Ryan O’Hearn as he threw to first trying for an inning-ending double play. The ball popped into the air, and by the time the ball was retrieved, Carlos Santana slid home ahead of the throw.Singles by Dozier and Michael A. Taylor led to a 2-0 lead.Cincinnati went ahead in the seventh after Tucker Barnhart singled off Brady Singer and Scott Barlow (2-3) relieved.Shogo Akiyama and Mike Freeman singled, cutting the deficit, and India doubled for a 3-2 lead.Akiyama added an RBI double in the eighth, and Tyler Naquin hit an RBI single in the ninth.Singer gave up one run and five hits in six-plus innings.“He had great tempo,” Matheny said. “His slider was sharp. His fastball was locating on both sides. He had a lot of movement today. You could tell by a lot of their reactions. I thought he did a great job of pounding the zone and trusting his defense.”UP NEXTReds: RHP Tyler Mahle (7-3, 3.63 ERA) starts Thursday’s series opener at NL Central-leading Milwaukee and RHP Adrian Houser (5-5, 3.94 ERA).Royals: LHP Danny Duffy (4-3, 2.60 ERA), seeking his first win since May 1, starts Thursday at Cleveland. He is 5-13 with a 4.81 ERA in 21 starts and four relief appearances against the Indians, his most losses against any opponent.

⚾ Royals give up late lead, drop series with loss to Reds

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Pérez’s walk-off single capped Kansas City’s four-run rally as the Royals beat the Cincinnati Reds 7-6. 

The Royals scored six runs off the Reds’ bullpen in the final two innings and Pérez got his third game-ending hit this season. 

Trailing 6-3 to start the ninth, the Royals got the tying run on second with no outs without the benefit of a hit. 

Ryan O’Hearn walked and Hunter Dozier was hit by a pitch. Michael A. Taylor then rolled a ground ball through the legs of Eugenio Suarez at third, scoring O’Hearn. 

With one out, Nicky Lopez flared a ball into short left field, scoring both runners to tie it 6-6. He advanced to third on a throw and error on the play. 

Whit Merrifield walked and Andrew Benintendi struck out, bringing Pérez to the plate.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Pérez’s walk-off single capped Kansas City’s four-run rally as the Royals beat the Cincinnati Reds 7-6. The Royals scored six runs off the Reds’ bullpen in the final two innings and Pérez got his third game-ending hit this season. Trailing 6-3 to start the ninth, the Royals got the tying run on second with no outs without the benefit of a hit. Ryan O’Hearn walked and Hunter Dozier was hit by a pitch. Michael A. Taylor then rolled a ground ball through the legs of Eugenio Suarez at third, scoring O’Hearn. With one out, Nicky Lopez flared a ball into short left field, scoring both runners to tie it 6-6. He advanced to third on a throw and error on the play. Whit Merrifield walked and Andrew Benintendi struck out, bringing Pérez to the plate.

⚾Pérez's RBI single caps 4-run 9th as Royals beat Reds 7-6

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Versatile forward Ochai Agbaji and high-scoring point guard Remy Martin have withdrawn from the NBA draft, opting instead to help Kansas chase a sixth national championship. 

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Versatile forward Ochai Agbaji and high-scoring point guard Remy Martin have withdrawn from the NBA draft, opting instead to help Kansas chase a sixth national championship. Agbaji announced his decision to return to the Jayhawks, whom he helped reach the second round of the NCAA Tournament, about two hours before Martin withdrew from the draft. Martin starred for Arizona State last season but announced he was transferring to Kansas if he withdrew from the draft.

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