LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas coach Bill Self says he is in isolation after testing positive for COVID-19. Self, who is fully vaccinated, said in a statement Friday on the school's Twitter account that he was “feeling pretty good right now.” He will isolate at his home in Lawrence.

Self was tested after feeling minor symptoms on Thursday as he was preparing to travel to watch recruits at various tournaments. 

He said two tests confirmed that he has the virus. Self said he believes he would be feeling much worse if he had not been vaccinated, and encouraged people to get the vaccine.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas coach Bill Self says he is in isolation after testing positive for COVID-19. Self, who is fully vaccinated, said in a statement Friday on the school's Twitter account that he was “feeling pretty good right now.” He will isolate at his home in Lawrence.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A statement from <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachBillSelf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachBillSelf</a> <a href="https://t.co/2U0EOHyOz8">pic.twitter.com/2U0EOHyOz8</a>&mdash; Kansas Basketball (@KUHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/KUHoops/status/1418695211107168260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Self was tested after feeling minor symptoms on Thursday as he was preparing to travel to watch recruits at various tournaments. He said two tests confirmed that he has the virus. Self said he believes he would be feeling much worse if he had not been vaccinated, and encouraged people to get the vaccine.

KU coach Bill Self in isolation after positive COVID-19 test

COLBY — Colby Community College had a strong showing in the National Junior College Athletic Association's&nbsp;2020-21 All-Academic Awards that recognize student-athletes across the country for their dedication in the classrooms. Forty-three Trojans made the list, and six of the eight teams recognized finished in the top 20 nationally.&nbsp;

"I could not be more proud of this amazing group of student-athletes," said CCC Athletic Director Mike Saddler. "The past year provided an incredible amount of challenges as they juggled practice, games, and class while working around obstacles that COVID threw at them. Despite all of that, they excelled in the classroom while also performing at a high level on the court or field. It also shows how hard each of our head coaches works to create a well-rounded student-athlete who can be successful."

Eight Trojan teams earned NJCAA All-Academic status for collectively attaining at least a 3.0 GPA. The volleyball team posted a 3.60 GPA, while the softball squad earned a 3.58. Women's cross country had the nation's sixth-highest mark among their peers at 3.52. Other achievers are men's cross country (3.30), baseball (3.23), women's outdoor track and field (3.18), women's basketball (3.14) and women's indoor track and field (3.11).

To earn NJCAA All-Academic first-team recognition, a student must carry a 4.00 grade point average. Second-team honorees have a GPA between 3.80 and 3.99. GPAs for third-team members range from 3.60 to 3.79.

First Team (4.0) Baseball: Matthew Dobberthien, Kyle Froehlich, Blake Labuda, Cleary Simpson, AJ Yamaguchi. Basketball (Men):&nbsp;Jarrett Bates.

Cross Country (Women): Morgan Clinesmith; Tobi Wilber.

Indoor Track and Field (Women): Tobi Wilber.&nbsp;

Outdoor Track and Field (Women): Tobi Wilber.

Softball: Savanna Anderson,&nbsp;Macy Gurnsey,&nbsp;Darian Riggs,&nbsp;Sophie Supernor, Allison Westbrook, Jennifer Williams.&nbsp;&nbsp; Volleyball:&nbsp;Ruxandra Flueras, Olivia Navarro, Marta Roicka.

Second Team (3.80-3.99) Baseball:&nbsp;Tyler Hampu.

Basketball (Women): Kiarra Henderson,&nbsp;Teira Johnson.

Indoor Track and Field (Men):&nbsp;Kelvin Kipchirchir.

Indoor Track and Field (Women): Ryleigh Carr.&nbsp; Outdoor Track and Field (Men): Kelvin Kipchirchir.

Outdoor Track and Field (Women): Ryleigh Carr, McKenna Kirkpatrick.

Softball: Gloria DiLauro; Sydnee Hoffman, Taylor Sheppard.&nbsp;&nbsp; Volleyball:&nbsp;Claire Choloux; McKenna Kirkpatrick.

Baseball: Kyle Bloor, AJ Cortese,&nbsp;Tyler McWillie, Tucker Zdunich.

Basketball (Women): Kamryn Hughes,&nbsp;De'Jah Vigilante.

Cross Country (Men): Robert Cheruiyot, Ryan Voss.

Cross Country (Women): Regan Hodsden&nbsp;Abigael Kemboi.

Indoor Track and Field (Women): Regan Hodsden, Abigael Kemboi.&nbsp;

Outdoor Track and Field (Men):&nbsp;Ryan Voss.

Outdoor Track and Field (Women):&nbsp;Regan Hodsden&nbsp;Abigael Kemboi.

Volleyball: Kassandra Lerma,&nbsp;Macarena Ruiz, Ashlyn Swan.

The complete list of individual and team recognition can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/general/2020-21/releases/20210715mgwj3p">NJCAA website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — Colby Community College had a strong showing in the National Junior College Athletic Association's&nbsp;2020-21 All-Academic Awards that recognize student-athletes across the country for their dedication in the classrooms. Forty-three Trojans made the list, and six of the eight teams recognized finished in the top 20 nationally.&nbsp;"I could not be more proud of this amazing group of student-athletes," said CCC Athletic Director Mike Saddler. "The past year provided an incredible amount of challenges as they juggled practice, games, and class while working around obstacles that COVID threw at them. Despite all of that, they excelled in the classroom while also performing at a high level on the court or field. It also shows how hard each of our head coaches works to create a well-rounded student-athlete who can be successful."Eight Trojan teams earned NJCAA All-Academic status for collectively attaining at least a 3.0 GPA. The volleyball team posted a 3.60 GPA, while the softball squad earned a 3.58. Women's cross country had the nation's sixth-highest mark among their peers at 3.52. Other achievers are men's cross country (3.30), baseball (3.23), women's outdoor track and field (3.18), women's basketball (3.14) and women's indoor track and field (3.11).To earn NJCAA All-Academic first-team recognition, a student must carry a 4.00 grade point average. Second-team honorees have a GPA between 3.80 and 3.99. GPAs for third-team members range from 3.60 to 3.79.First Team (4.0) Baseball: Matthew Dobberthien, Kyle Froehlich, Blake Labuda, Cleary Simpson, AJ Yamaguchi. Basketball (Men):&nbsp;Jarrett Bates.Cross Country (Women): Morgan Clinesmith; Tobi Wilber.Indoor Track and Field (Women): Tobi Wilber.&nbsp;Outdoor Track and Field (Women): Tobi Wilber.Softball: Savanna Anderson,&nbsp;Macy Gurnsey,&nbsp;Darian Riggs,&nbsp;Sophie Supernor, Allison Westbrook, Jennifer Williams.&nbsp;&nbsp; Volleyball:&nbsp;Ruxandra Flueras, Olivia Navarro, Marta Roicka.Second Team (3.80-3.99) Baseball:&nbsp;Tyler Hampu.Basketball (Women): Kiarra Henderson,&nbsp;Teira Johnson.Cross Country (Men): Kelvin Kipchirchir.Cross Country (Women): Ryleigh Carr.Indoor Track and Field (Men):&nbsp;Kelvin Kipchirchir.Indoor Track and Field (Women): Ryleigh Carr.&nbsp; Outdoor Track and Field (Men): Kelvin Kipchirchir.Outdoor Track and Field (Women): Ryleigh Carr, McKenna Kirkpatrick.Softball: Gloria DiLauro; Sydnee Hoffman, Taylor Sheppard.&nbsp;&nbsp; Volleyball:&nbsp;Claire Choloux; McKenna Kirkpatrick.Third Team (3.60 to 3.79)&nbsp;Baseball: Kyle Bloor, AJ Cortese,&nbsp;Tyler McWillie, Tucker Zdunich.Basketball (Men): Tyrik King.Basketball (Women): Kamryn Hughes,&nbsp;De'Jah Vigilante.Cross Country (Men): Robert Cheruiyot, Ryan Voss.Cross Country (Women): Regan Hodsden&nbsp;Abigael Kemboi.Indoor Track and Field (Men): Ryan Voss.Indoor Track and Field (Women): Regan Hodsden, Abigael Kemboi.&nbsp;Outdoor Track and Field (Men):&nbsp;Ryan Voss.Outdoor Track and Field (Women):&nbsp;Regan Hodsden&nbsp;Abigael Kemboi.Softball: Elle Edeker.&nbsp;&nbsp;Volleyball: Kassandra Lerma,&nbsp;Macarena Ruiz, Ashlyn Swan.Wrestling: Kody Hahn.The complete list of individual and team recognition can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/general/2020-21/releases/20210715mgwj3p">NJCAA website</a>.

Colby Community College athletes earn academic honors

HAYS – The Denver Cougars built an early five-run lead then
held off a late charge by the Larks to end Hays’ record 14-game win streak with
an 8-4 victory Friday night at Larks Park.

The Cougars (10-18-1, 6-10 RMBL) used a walk and two singles
to score twice in the top of the first. They added another run in the third on
a two-out single.

The Larks (26-5, 14-3 RMBL)
closed the gap to 3-1 with a run in the bottom of the third on a Dylan Dreiling
groundout.

The Cougars would score five runs
over the next six innings to go up 8-1. Landon Anderson hit a three-run homer in
the fourth then added solo shot in the seventh.

The Larks tried to rally in the bottom
of the ninth. Back-to-back walks to Leo Jiminian and Mtt Cavanagh followed by a
Wyatt Divis double closed the gap to 8-to-2. Cavanagh scored on a wild pitch
then Grant Schmidt’s sacrifice fly scored Divis to make it 8-4. Cortland Lawson
struck out and Grant Lung grounded out to end the rally and the game.

&nbsp;Derek Decolati (0-1) allowed six runs (one
earned) on five hits with five strikeouts and a walk over four innings and
suffered the loss.

The Larks were held to four hits and
committed four errors which resulted in five unearned runs.

The two teams play the middle
game of the three-game series Saturday night at 7:00 p.m.

HAYS – The Denver Cougars built an early five-run lead then
held off a late charge by the Larks to end Hays’ record 14-game win streak with
an 8-4 victory Friday night at Larks Park.The Cougars (10-18-1, 6-10 RMBL) used a walk and two singles
to score twice in the top of the first. They added another run in the third on
a two-out single.The Larks (26-5, 14-3 RMBL)
closed the gap to 3-1 with a run in the bottom of the third on a Dylan Dreiling
groundout.The Cougars would score five runs
over the next six innings to go up 8-1. Landon Anderson hit a three-run homer in
the fourth then added solo shot in the seventh.The Larks tried to rally in the bottom
of the ninth. Back-to-back walks to Leo Jiminian and Mtt Cavanagh followed by a
Wyatt Divis double closed the gap to 8-to-2. Cavanagh scored on a wild pitch
then Grant Schmidt’s sacrifice fly scored Divis to make it 8-4. Cortland Lawson
struck out and Grant Lung grounded out to end the rally and the game.&nbsp;Derek Decolati (0-1) allowed six runs (one
earned) on five hits with five strikeouts and a walk over four innings and
suffered the loss.The Larks were held to four hits and
committed four errors which resulted in five unearned runs.The two teams play the middle
game of the three-game series Saturday night at 7:00 p.m.

⚾ Larks fall to Cougars ending 14-game win streak

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ryan O’Hearn hit a three-run homer and Carlos Santana also connected as the Kansas City Royals beat Detroit 5-3 Friday night, ending the Tigers' seven-game winning streak.

The Tigers had been 7-0 since the All-Star break. It was their longest winning string since an eight-game run in 2016.

Kansas City has won three in a row for the first time since June 4.

Kris Bubic (3-4) gave up one earned run and six hits in six innings. He ended his outing by getting Jeimer Candelario to ground into a double play with the bases loaded.

O’Hearn hit his eighth homer, giving the Royals a 4-1 lead in the fourth.

Santana hit his 16th homer, a drive that barely made it over the right field fence in the fifth. Wily Peralta (3-2) hadn’t given up a hit against lefties on hos slider (0 for 30) before Santana connected.

Peralta went 5 2/3 innings and gave up five runs, five hits, three walks and four strikeouts. It’s tied for the most runs he’s given up all season.

Willi Castro homered in the Detroit third.

Whit Merrifield hit an RBI single to tie it at 1.

Kansas City: Sent INF/OF Ryan McBroom to Omaha and called up RHP Domingo Tapia.

Casey Mize (5-5, 3.44) starts for the Tigers against Carlos Hernandez (1-1, 4.91) for Kansas City.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ryan O’Hearn hit a three-run homer and Carlos Santana also connected as the Kansas City Royals beat Detroit 5-3 Friday night, ending the Tigers' seven-game winning streak.The Tigers had been 7-0 since the All-Star break. It was their longest winning string since an eight-game run in 2016.Kansas City has won three in a row for the first time since June 4.Kris Bubic (3-4) gave up one earned run and six hits in six innings. He ended his outing by getting Jeimer Candelario to ground into a double play with the bases loaded.Greg Holland got his seventh save.O’Hearn hit his eighth homer, giving the Royals a 4-1 lead in the fourth.Santana hit his 16th homer, a drive that barely made it over the right field fence in the fifth. Wily Peralta (3-2) hadn’t given up a hit against lefties on hos slider (0 for 30) before Santana connected.Peralta went 5 2/3 innings and gave up five runs, five hits, three walks and four strikeouts. It’s tied for the most runs he’s given up all season.Willi Castro homered in the Detroit third.Whit Merrifield hit an RBI single to tie it at 1.ROSTER MOVESKansas City: Sent INF/OF Ryan McBroom to Omaha and called up RHP Domingo Tapia.UP NEXTCasey Mize (5-5, 3.44) starts for the Tigers against Carlos Hernandez (1-1, 4.91) for Kansas City.

⚾ O'Hearn, Royals end Tigers' 7-game winning streak

The Kansas City Chiefs have begun arriving at the Missouri Western campus in St. Joseph as training camp activities get underway this weekend.

Rookies and quarterbacks were the first to report Friday, and the team will hold three closed practices Saturday before practices open to the general public on Wednesday.

Patrick Mahomes, who's beginning his fifth season with the Chiefs, was among the first to arrive Friday.

After being confined to the Kansas City facilities for training camp last year due to COVID-19, Mahomes is thrilled to be back in St. Joseph, where camp has been held every year from 2010-2019.

He says it's an especially good time to get more familiar with the rookies on the team, particularly second-round draft pick Creed Humphrey out of Oklahoma, who will be vying for the starting center position behind Austin Blythe.

"Things like training camp in St. Joseph and all being together pretty much every single day, you keep building those relationships that have already been built a little bit," Mahomes said during a Zoom call with reporters Friday. "I think it'll bring us together throughout this month. Not only going out and practicing every single day, but also eating every single meal together and building those relationships."

As for Mahomes' health, he says he feels 100 percent going into camp after recovering from turf toe surgery in February following a 31-9 loss to Tampa Bay in Super Bowl 55.

"I've been training, running, throwing and doing everything I normally do," Mahomes said. "I think what was so good about going to (Organized Team Activities) and doing those things was, I tested it there and realized I was good. Then when I got back with Bobby (Stroupe) and started training in the offseason with him, I was able to do with him what I normally would do."

The Super Bowl loss is well in the rearview by this point, but Mahomes says the sting of that defeat stuck with him for at least a couple of weeks after. However, he views training camp as an opportunity to start fresh and build toward getting better this coming season.

"I think the best thing about getting to training camp is it all starts over," Mahomes said. "No matter how you ended the year before, you get to go in with the mindset of starting from scratch. So, we're excited to do that and are going to try and make another run at it."

Coach Andy Reid, who enters his ninth season with the Chiefs and 29th overall in the NFL, is also thrilled to come back to St. Joseph for camp. He praised Missouri Western personnel for their hospitality during nearly month-long event.

"We're glad to be back up here in St. Joe," he said. "We love the hospitality they give us up here at Missouri Western State University. From their president (Elizabeth Kennedy) on down, it's just all class and that's obviously why we have returned."

Reid says the best part of training camp is the constant focus on football, but also team comradery.

"There's this concentration of football that you take in here," he said. "You're sleeping and eating in the dorm. You're here and it's football kind of 24/7. That's how it works."

Reid said 30 players total will report to camp, which opens up to media and fans on July 28 and will conclude on August 18. All practices will be held at the Mosaic Training Fields. Nearly every practice will start at 9:15 a.m. A full training camp schedule and details <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/bb4a2c34-f5db-45d5-aed6-162b76ab285b">can be found here</a>.

Most Chiefs players, all Chiefs coaches are vaccinated

Coach Reid said 90 percent of the team and the entire Chiefs' coaching staff have been vaccinated against COVID-19. The NFL announced Thursday that teams could be forced to&nbsp;forfeit a game if there's a COVID-19 outbreak amongst unvaccinated players that would cause a game to be postponed.

"It's definitely a big deal with that news coming out," Mahomes said. "You don't want to forfeit games, but I think we have guys in the locker room who are vaccinated and guys who are unvaccinated who are going to be smart and not try to hurt the team in any way."

Frank Clark will report to camp despite legal trouble

Chiefs defensive end Frank Clark is expected to report to training camp next week.&nbsp;

Clark has had multiple run-ins with police during the offseason in Los Angeles - first in March and again in June.

Los Angeles County prosecutors charged Clark earlier this month with felony illegal possession of a firearm in connection to the March arrest. That court case is ongoing. Clark has not been formally charged in connection to the incident in June.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627071930493.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs have begun arriving at the Missouri Western campus in St. Joseph as training camp activities get underway this weekend.Rookies and quarterbacks were the first to report Friday, and the team will hold three closed practices Saturday before practices open to the general public on Wednesday.Patrick Mahomes, who's beginning his fifth season with the Chiefs, was among the first to arrive Friday.After being confined to the Kansas City facilities for training camp last year due to COVID-19, Mahomes is thrilled to be back in St. Joseph, where camp has been held every year from 2010-2019.He says it's an especially good time to get more familiar with the rookies on the team, particularly second-round draft pick Creed Humphrey out of Oklahoma, who will be vying for the starting center position behind Austin Blythe."Things like training camp in St. Joseph and all being together pretty much every single day, you keep building those relationships that have already been built a little bit," Mahomes said during a Zoom call with reporters Friday. "I think it'll bring us together throughout this month. Not only going out and practicing every single day, but also eating every single meal together and building those relationships."As for Mahomes' health, he says he feels 100 percent going into camp after recovering from turf toe surgery in February following a 31-9 loss to Tampa Bay in Super Bowl 55."I've been training, running, throwing and doing everything I normally do," Mahomes said. "I think what was so good about going to (Organized Team Activities) and doing those things was, I tested it there and realized I was good. Then when I got back with Bobby (Stroupe) and started training in the offseason with him, I was able to do with him what I normally would do."The Super Bowl loss is well in the rearview by this point, but Mahomes says the sting of that defeat stuck with him for at least a couple of weeks after. However, he views training camp as an opportunity to start fresh and build toward getting better this coming season."I think the best thing about getting to training camp is it all starts over," Mahomes said. "No matter how you ended the year before, you get to go in with the mindset of starting from scratch. So, we're excited to do that and are going to try and make another run at it."Coach Andy Reid, who enters his ninth season with the Chiefs and 29th overall in the NFL, is also thrilled to come back to St. Joseph for camp. He praised Missouri Western personnel for their hospitality during nearly month-long event."We're glad to be back up here in St. Joe," he said. "We love the hospitality they give us up here at Missouri Western State University. From their president (Elizabeth Kennedy) on down, it's just all class and that's obviously why we have returned."Reid says the best part of training camp is the constant focus on football, but also team comradery."There's this concentration of football that you take in here," he said. "You're sleeping and eating in the dorm. You're here and it's football kind of 24/7. That's how it works."Reid said 30 players total will report to camp, which opens up to media and fans on July 28 and will conclude on August 18. All practices will be held at the Mosaic Training Fields. Nearly every practice will start at 9:15 a.m. A full training camp schedule and details <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/bb4a2c34-f5db-45d5-aed6-162b76ab285b">can be found here</a>.Most Chiefs players, all Chiefs coaches are vaccinatedCoach Reid said 90 percent of the team and the entire Chiefs' coaching staff have been vaccinated against COVID-19. The NFL announced Thursday that teams could be forced to&nbsp;forfeit a game if there's a COVID-19 outbreak amongst unvaccinated players that would cause a game to be postponed."It's definitely a big deal with that news coming out," Mahomes said. "You don't want to forfeit games, but I think we have guys in the locker room who are vaccinated and guys who are unvaccinated who are going to be smart and not try to hurt the team in any way."Frank Clark will report to camp despite legal troubleChiefs defensive end Frank Clark is expected to report to training camp next week.&nbsp;Clark has had multiple run-ins with police during the offseason in Los Angeles - first in March and again in June.Los Angeles County prosecutors charged Clark earlier this month with felony illegal possession of a firearm in connection to the March arrest. That court case is ongoing. Clark has not been formally charged in connection to the incident in June.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKansasCityChiefs%2Fvideos%2F165787085618617%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Chiefs arrive in St. Joseph as training camp begins

New York (AP) - NFL teams have been warned they could forfeit a game due to a COVID-19 outbreak among non-vaccinated players, and players on both teams wouldn’t get paid that week.

“As we learned last year, we can play a full season if we maintain a firm commitment to adhering to our health and safety protocols and to making needed adjustments in response to changing conditions,” Commissioner Roger Goodell said Thursday in a memo sent to clubs that was obtained by The Associated Press.

Goodell says the league doesn’t anticipate adding a 19th week to accommodate games that can’t be rescheduled within 18-week regular season.

However, forfeits are among the consequences.

“If a game can’t be rescheduled and is canceled due to a COVID outbreak among non-vaccinated players on one of the competing teams, the team with the outbreak will forfeit and will be deemed to have played 16 games for purposes of draft, waiver priority, etc,” Goodell says in the memo.

For purposes of playoff seeding, the forfeiting team will be credited with a loss and the other team will be credited with a win.

The league says more than half its teams have COVID-19 vaccination rates greater than 80% of their players, and more than 75% of players are in the process of being vaccinated.

Nearly all clubs have vaccinated 100% of their Tier 1 and 2 staffs. Teams have appropriate protocols set up for staffers who have not been vaccinated, consistent with the guidance given last April.

— If a vaccinated person tests positive and is asymptomatic, he or she will be isolated and contact tracing will promptly occur. The positive individual will be permitted to return to duty after two negative tests at least 24 hours apart, and will thereafter be tested every two weeks or as directed by the medical staffs. Vaccinated individuals will not be subject to quarantine as a result of close contact with an infected person.

— If an unvaccinated person tests positive, the protocols from 2020 will remain in effect. The person will be isolated for a period of 10 days and will then be permitted to return to duty if asymptomatic. Unvaccinated individuals will continue to be subject to a five-day quarantine period if they have close contact with an infected individual.

— Anyone who had a previous COVID-19 infection will be considered fully vaccinated 14 days after they have had at least one dose of an approved vaccine.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578051322956.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>New York (AP) - NFL teams have been warned they could forfeit a game due to a COVID-19 outbreak among non-vaccinated players, and players on both teams wouldn’t get paid that week.“As we learned last year, we can play a full season if we maintain a firm commitment to adhering to our health and safety protocols and to making needed adjustments in response to changing conditions,” Commissioner Roger Goodell said Thursday in a memo sent to clubs that was obtained by The Associated Press.Goodell says the league doesn’t anticipate adding a 19th week to accommodate games that can’t be rescheduled within 18-week regular season.However, forfeits are among the consequences.“If a game can’t be rescheduled and is canceled due to a COVID outbreak among non-vaccinated players on one of the competing teams, the team with the outbreak will forfeit and will be deemed to have played 16 games for purposes of draft, waiver priority, etc,” Goodell says in the memo.For purposes of playoff seeding, the forfeiting team will be credited with a loss and the other team will be credited with a win.The league says more than half its teams have COVID-19 vaccination rates greater than 80% of their players, and more than 75% of players are in the process of being vaccinated.Nearly all clubs have vaccinated 100% of their Tier 1 and 2 staffs. Teams have appropriate protocols set up for staffers who have not been vaccinated, consistent with the guidance given last April.Among the other key points in the memo:— If a vaccinated person tests positive and is asymptomatic, he or she will be isolated and contact tracing will promptly occur. The positive individual will be permitted to return to duty after two negative tests at least 24 hours apart, and will thereafter be tested every two weeks or as directed by the medical staffs. Vaccinated individuals will not be subject to quarantine as a result of close contact with an infected person.— If an unvaccinated person tests positive, the protocols from 2020 will remain in effect. The person will be isolated for a period of 10 days and will then be permitted to return to duty if asymptomatic. Unvaccinated individuals will continue to be subject to a five-day quarantine period if they have close contact with an infected individual.— Anyone who had a previous COVID-19 infection will be considered fully vaccinated 14 days after they have had at least one dose of an approved vaccine.

NFL warning teams with strict COVID vaccination rules

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