OMAHA – The Hays Eagles Senior American Legion baseball team
spit their first two games at the Battle of Omaha Monday. The Eagles rallied
from an early deficit to beat Burke-Primetime (NE) 11-9 in extra innings then were
held to four hits and lost 11-4 to the Minot (ND) Vistas at Burke high school.

The Eagles (7-4) were held hitless for the first three
innings and fell behind 5-0 in their opener against Burke-Primetime then scored
six in the top of the fifth to take the lead. Caden Morgan started the rally
with a one-out run-scoring single to right. Ben Krannawitter followed with a
single to left to load the bases then Brady Kreutzer doubled to deep left which
scored three. Dalton Dale’s two-out single to left scored Kreutzer to tie the
game. Carson Spray then doubled to right which scored Dale.

A bases-loaded walk in the bottom of the inning tied the
game 6-6.

In extra innings, Spray singled home a run in the top of the
seventh only to see Burke answer in the bottom if the inning.

Remington Cox walked to lead off the eighth then later
scored on a wild pitch. Garrett Wellbrock drew a bases loaded walk to push the
lead to 9-7. Dalton Dale followed with a double scoring Brayden Dreher and Ben
Krannawitter which built the lead to 11-7.

Burke scored two in the bottom of the eighth and had the
bases loaded with two outs when Carson Spray got a groundout to end the game.

Spray (2-0) pitched the final inning in relief and picked up
the win. Starter Blake Schmidt allowed five runs on five hits with five walks
and no strikeouts. Brady Kreutzer followed and allowed one run in one inning of
work. Dalton Dale they pitched 2 1/3 scoreless innings.

Kreutzer, Dale and Spray all had two hits. Kreutzer and Dale
both drove in three runs while Spray knocked in two.

The Eagles fell behind 5-0 in their second game against
Minot before scoring a run in the bottom of the fourth and three in the fifth
to pull within 6-4 but the Vistas answered with three in the top of the sixth
for the 9-4 victory.

Garrett Wellbrock (2-2) allowed nine runs (eight earned) on
11 hits with two strikeouts and three walks over 5 1/3 innings and suffered the
loss.

Kreutzer, Wellbrock, Caden Morgan and Gage Porter had the
only hits in the game for Hays who plays the Omaha Spikes at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday.

OMAHA – The Hays Eagles Senior American Legion baseball team
spit their first two games at the Battle of Omaha Monday. The Eagles rallied
from an early deficit to beat Burke-Primetime (NE) 11-9 in extra innings then were
held to four hits and lost 11-4 to the Minot (ND) Vistas at Burke high school.The Eagles (7-4) were held hitless for the first three
innings and fell behind 5-0 in their opener against Burke-Primetime then scored
six in the top of the fifth to take the lead. Caden Morgan started the rally
with a one-out run-scoring single to right. Ben Krannawitter followed with a
single to left to load the bases then Brady Kreutzer doubled to deep left which
scored three. Dalton Dale’s two-out single to left scored Kreutzer to tie the
game. Carson Spray then doubled to right which scored Dale.A bases-loaded walk in the bottom of the inning tied the
game 6-6.In extra innings, Spray singled home a run in the top of the
seventh only to see Burke answer in the bottom if the inning.Remington Cox walked to lead off the eighth then later
scored on a wild pitch. Garrett Wellbrock drew a bases loaded walk to push the
lead to 9-7. Dalton Dale followed with a double scoring Brayden Dreher and Ben
Krannawitter which built the lead to 11-7.Burke scored two in the bottom of the eighth and had the
bases loaded with two outs when Carson Spray got a groundout to end the game.Spray (2-0) pitched the final inning in relief and picked up
the win. Starter Blake Schmidt allowed five runs on five hits with five walks
and no strikeouts. Brady Kreutzer followed and allowed one run in one inning of
work. Dalton Dale they pitched 2 1/3 scoreless innings.Kreutzer, Dale and Spray all had two hits. Kreutzer and Dale
both drove in three runs while Spray knocked in two.The Eagles fell behind 5-0 in their second game against
Minot before scoring a run in the bottom of the fourth and three in the fifth
to pull within 6-4 but the Vistas answered with three in the top of the sixth
for the 9-4 victory.Garrett Wellbrock (2-2) allowed nine runs (eight earned) on
11 hits with two strikeouts and three walks over 5 1/3 innings and suffered the
loss.Kreutzer, Wellbrock, Caden Morgan and Gage Porter had the
only hits in the game for Hays who plays the Omaha Spikes at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday.

⚾ Senior Legion splits first two games at Battle of Omaha

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jarrod Dyson capped a 10-pitch at-bat with a tiebreaking, two-run double in a three-run third inning off Nathan Eovaldi, and the Kansas City Royals rallied to beat the Boston Red Sox 7-3  for their first series win in nearly three weeks. 

Mike Minor allowed two runs and nine hits over 6 2/3 innings for the Royals, who had lost 12 of their previous 14 games.&nbsp;

Whit Merrifield got his 800th major league hit in the first and hit a two-run homer in the sixth against Yacksel Ríos.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jarrod Dyson capped a 10-pitch at-bat with a tiebreaking, two-run double in a three-run third inning off Nathan Eovaldi, and the Kansas City Royals rallied to beat the Boston Red Sox 7-3 for their first series win in nearly three weeks. Mike Minor allowed two runs and nine hits over 6 2/3 innings for the Royals, who had lost 12 of their previous 14 games.&nbsp;Whit Merrifield got his 800th major league hit in the first and hit a two-run homer in the sixth against Yacksel Ríos.

⚾Dyson double caps 10-pitch AB, Royals top Red Sox 7-3

The Hays Larks collected 19 hits and hit four runs as they picked up their sixth win in-a-row Sunday 16-9 over the Denver Cougars at Larks Park in Hays.

The Larks (10-1, 5-1) jumped out to an early 6-0 lead in the first inning.

The first four hitters of the game reached base for the Larks in the bottom of the first as they hit for the cycle as a team.

After a Grant Lung single, Cam Pehrson homered to put Hays up 2-0.&nbsp; Wyatt Divis followed with a triple and then Grant Schmidt doubled him home for a 3-0 lead.&nbsp;

Two batters later Core Jackson singled and then Brock Lummus followed with his first home run of the season, a two-run shot to left field making it 6-0 Hays.

After the Larks added a run on a wild pitch in the second inning Denver plated two runs in the top of the third inning cutting the Hays lead to 7-2.

In the bottom of the third inning the Larks sent 10 to the plate and scored five runs to take a 12-2 lead.

With the bases loaded Zach Henry was hit by a pitch and followed by a Grant Lung grand slam to put Hays up by 10.

Denver (3-11, 1-5) got three runs in the top of both the fifth and sixth innings to make is 12-7 Hays.

Lummus drove in a third run in the bottom of the sixth inning making it 13-8 Hays through six innings.

After Denver got a run back in the top of the seventh to cut Hays’ lead to 13-9, Hays scored three runs in the bottom of the inning.

Divis opened the inning with a two-run home run making it 15-9 Larks. Core Jackson tripled home a run to put Hays up 16-9.

Corey Bright earned the win for Hays. He allowed five runs over four and two-thirds innings with three strikeouts and four walks.

Lung was two-for-six with four RBI’s and two runs. Lummus drove in three runs. Pehrson, Divis and Jackson all drove in two runs.

Hays will have Monday off before hosting the Boulder Collegians for a two-game series starting Tuesday.

The Hays Larks collected 19 hits and hit four runs as they picked up their sixth win in-a-row Sunday 16-9 over the Denver Cougars at Larks Park in Hays.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1072680916&color=%23ff003d&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/06-20-hays-larks-coach-int" title="06 - 20 Hays Larks Frank Leo" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">06 - 20 Hays Larks Frank Leo</a></div></div>The Larks (10-1, 5-1) jumped out to an early 6-0 lead in the first inning.The first four hitters of the game reached base for the Larks in the bottom of the first as they hit for the cycle as a team.After a Grant Lung single, Cam Pehrson homered to put Hays up 2-0.&nbsp; Wyatt Divis followed with a triple and then Grant Schmidt doubled him home for a 3-0 lead.&nbsp;Two batters later Core Jackson singled and then Brock Lummus followed with his first home run of the season, a two-run shot to left field making it 6-0 Hays.After the Larks added a run on a wild pitch in the second inning Denver plated two runs in the top of the third inning cutting the Hays lead to 7-2.In the bottom of the third inning the Larks sent 10 to the plate and scored five runs to take a 12-2 lead.With the bases loaded Zach Henry was hit by a pitch and followed by a Grant Lung grand slam to put Hays up by 10.Denver (3-11, 1-5) got three runs in the top of both the fifth and sixth innings to make is 12-7 Hays.Lummus drove in a third run in the bottom of the sixth inning making it 13-8 Hays through six innings.After Denver got a run back in the top of the seventh to cut Hays’ lead to 13-9, Hays scored three runs in the bottom of the inning.Divis opened the inning with a two-run home run making it 15-9 Larks. Core Jackson tripled home a run to put Hays up 16-9.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1072680877&color=%23ff003d&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/06-20-hays-larks-highlights" title="06 - 20 Hays Larks Highlights vs Denver" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">06 - 20 Hays Larks Highlights vs Denver</a></div></div>Corey Bright earned the win for Hays. He allowed five runs over four and two-thirds innings with three strikeouts and four walks.Lung was two-for-six with four RBI’s and two runs. Lummus drove in three runs. Pehrson, Divis and Jackson all drove in two runs.Hays will have Monday off before hosting the Boulder Collegians for a two-game series starting Tuesday.

⚾Offense carriers Larks to sweep of Cougars

HAYS – Dylan Dreiling hit a grand slam and drove in five
runs to help lead the Hays Larks to a 9-3 win over the Denver Cougars Saturday
night at Larks Park. Dreiling’s two-out, bases-loaded blast over the right field wall capped a six-run third inning which gave the Larks the lead
for good. 

Grant Schmidt gave the Larks (8-1, 5-1 RMBL) a 3-2 lead with a
two-run homer following a Wyatt Divis single. Schmidt has now homered in two straight and four of the last five games he's played in. Leo Jiminian followed with a single then back-to-back walks to Core Jackson and Palmer Hutchison set up Dreiling’s
big blow.

Dreiling drove in his fifth run of the night in the seventh on a line drive single to left
which scored Palmer Hutchison who drove in a run with a
double to left earlier in the inning.

The Larks grabbed the early lead, scoring a run in the second on an
error. The Cougars (3-10) answered with two runs in the top of the third.

Dreiling, Wyatt Divis and
Core Jackson all had two hits.

Jose Velazquez (3-0) pitched three scoreless innings of relief and picked up the win allowing only one hit with four strikeouts and a walk.
Starter Jake Fitzgibbons allowed two runs on two hits with eight strikeouts and
four walks over three innings. 

The Larks and Cougars close out the three-game series with a
non-league game Sunday night. You can hear the game on KAYS (94.3-FM, 1400-AM)
and on Hays Post.

HAYS – Dylan Dreiling hit a grand slam and drove in five
runs to help lead the Hays Larks to a 9-3 win over the Denver Cougars Saturday
night at Larks Park. Dreiling’s two-out, bases-loaded blast over the right field wall capped a six-run third inning which gave the Larks the lead
for good. Grant Schmidt gave the Larks (8-1, 5-1 RMBL) a 3-2 lead with a
two-run homer following a Wyatt Divis single. Schmidt has now homered in two straight and four of the last five games he's played in. Leo Jiminian followed with a single then back-to-back walks to Core Jackson and Palmer Hutchison set up Dreiling’s
big blow.Dreiling drove in his fifth run of the night in the seventh on a line drive single to left
which scored Palmer Hutchison who drove in a run with a
double to left earlier in the inning.The Larks grabbed the early lead, scoring a run in the second on an
error. The Cougars (3-10) answered with two runs in the top of the third.Dreiling, Wyatt Divis and
Core Jackson all had two hits.Jose Velazquez (3-0) pitched three scoreless innings of relief and picked up the win allowing only one hit with four strikeouts and a walk.
Starter Jake Fitzgibbons allowed two runs on two hits with eight strikeouts and
four walks over three innings. The Larks and Cougars close out the three-game series with a
non-league game Sunday night. You can hear the game on KAYS (94.3-FM, 1400-AM)
and on Hays Post.

⚾ Dreiling's grand slam lifts Larks past Cougars

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Light-hitting Bobby Dalbec had three RBIs and was a double short of a cycle, J.D. Martinez hit a two-run homer and the Boston Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 7-1 on Saturday.

Dalbec, Boston's No. 9 hitter, singled in the second, put Boston ahead 2-1 in the fifth with his team-high third triple, was hit by a Jackson Kowar pitch in the seventh and hit a two-run homer in the ninth off Kowar.

Dalbec is 12 for 45 with four homers and 10 RBIs in his last 12 games, raising his average to .214 and OPS to .699. He has nine homers and 32 RBIs.

“We did a lot of good things today," Red Sox manager Alex Cora said. "We didn’t rely on the big guys today, so it was a good all-around win.”

Martín Pérez (5-4) allowed one run and three hits in five innings.

“Today I was attacking hitters well," Pérez said.

Garrett Whitlock, Hirokazu Sawamura and Brandon Workman combined for four innings of four-hit shutout relief.

Brad Keller (6-7) lost his third straight start, giving up five runs, five hits and three walks in five innings.

Kansas City went 0 for 11 with runners in scoring position and stranded eight runners.

“We had some good chances with the offense, but we just couldn’t get it done," Royals manager Mike Matheny said.

Kowar allowed two runs, three hits and two wild pitches in three innings, but the 24-year-old rookie right-hander cut his ERA from 36.00 to 18.00 in three big-league appearances.

Kansas City's Whit Merrifield stole three bases, raising his major league-leading total to 20. But after swiping third base in the third inning with the score 1-1, he got caught off third on Salvador Pérez's comebacker and easily was tagged out in a rundown for the second out.

Xander Bogaerts had a run-scoring single in the first, and Carlos Santana tied the score with an RBI grounder in the third.

Kiké Hernández walked leading off the fifth and scored the go-ahead run on Dalbec's triple. Danny Santana hit an RBI grounder, Alex Verdugo walked and Martinez made it 5-1 with his 14th homer.

RHP Nathan Eovaldi (7-3, 3.76 ERA) will take the mound for Boston in Sunday's series finale against LHP Mike Minor (5-4, 4.63 ERA).

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Light-hitting Bobby Dalbec had three RBIs and was a double short of a cycle, J.D. Martinez hit a two-run homer and the Boston Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 7-1 on Saturday.Dalbec, Boston's No. 9 hitter, singled in the second, put Boston ahead 2-1 in the fifth with his team-high third triple, was hit by a Jackson Kowar pitch in the seventh and hit a two-run homer in the ninth off Kowar.Dalbec is 12 for 45 with four homers and 10 RBIs in his last 12 games, raising his average to .214 and OPS to .699. He has nine homers and 32 RBIs.“We did a lot of good things today," Red Sox manager Alex Cora said. "We didn’t rely on the big guys today, so it was a good all-around win.”Martín Pérez (5-4) allowed one run and three hits in five innings.“Today I was attacking hitters well," Pérez said.Garrett Whitlock, Hirokazu Sawamura and Brandon Workman combined for four innings of four-hit shutout relief.Brad Keller (6-7) lost his third straight start, giving up five runs, five hits and three walks in five innings.Kansas City went 0 for 11 with runners in scoring position and stranded eight runners.“We had some good chances with the offense, but we just couldn’t get it done," Royals manager Mike Matheny said.Kowar allowed two runs, three hits and two wild pitches in three innings, but the 24-year-old rookie right-hander cut his ERA from 36.00 to 18.00 in three big-league appearances.Kansas City's Whit Merrifield stole three bases, raising his major league-leading total to 20. But after swiping third base in the third inning with the score 1-1, he got caught off third on Salvador Pérez's comebacker and easily was tagged out in a rundown for the second out.Xander Bogaerts had a run-scoring single in the first, and Carlos Santana tied the score with an RBI grounder in the third.Kiké Hernández walked leading off the fifth and scored the go-ahead run on Dalbec's triple. Danny Santana hit an RBI grounder, Alex Verdugo walked and Martinez made it 5-1 with his 14th homer.UP NEXTRHP Nathan Eovaldi (7-3, 3.76 ERA) will take the mound for Boston in Sunday's series finale against LHP Mike Minor (5-4, 4.63 ERA).

⚾ Royals offense goes cold in loss to Red Sox

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Adalberto Mondesi hit a 464-foot three-run homer, Salvador Pérez added his 18th home run this season, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Boston Red Sox 5-3 on Friday night for only their second win in their last 13 games.

Kansas City trailed 1-0 before Mondesi’s third-inning home run off Nick Pivetta (6-3), Mondesi’s fourth home run in nine games this season. Mondesi has nine RBI.

Before a season-high crowd of 29,870 at Kauffman Stadium, Kris Bubic (2-2) won despite allowing two runs and five hits in 2 2/3 innings. Greg Holland pitched a perfect ninth for his fourth save, and the Royals stopped their six-game losing streak.

Boston’s Christian Arroyo was ejected by plate umpire Jim Wolf after he took a called third strike for the second out of the ninth on a pitch that Arroyo thought was inside.

Whit Merrifield had his fourth straight multi-hit game, including an RBI double in the fifth that boosted Kansas City’s lead to 4-2.

The Red Sox went 2 for 9 with runners in scoring position and stranded eight runners.

Boston faced Kansas City for the first time since dealing outfielder Andrew Benintendi to the Royals on Feb. 10 as part of a three-team trade. Benintendi is missing the series because of a broken rib.

Kansas City used an opener for the first time this season, and Kyle Zimmer allowed three hits in two scoreless innings.

Pivetta gave up three runs and six hits in five innings. He is 0-3 in four starts after starting the season 6-0.

Alex Verdugo’s RBI single put Boston ahead in the third, and J.D. Martinez hit a run-scoring single in the fifth that closed the Red Sox to 3-2.

Pérez homered in the seventh off Matt Andriese, a drive just over the wall in right.

Rafael Devers hit his 17th homer, a solo drive in the eighth off Scott Barlow, who had not allowed a home run in 38 innings.

Royals:&nbsp;Outfielder Edward Olivares was optioned to Triple-A Omaha. The Royals selected the contract of right-hander Anthony Swarzak from Omaha and transferred right-hander Ronald Bolanos from the 10-day to the 60-day IL.

Red Sox:&nbsp;Left-hander Chris Sale (Tommy John surgery in March 2020) threw a 40-pitch simulated game at Triple-A Worcester. Sale said he felt good and thought the session was a step in the right direction. His next bullpen session is set for Tuesday.

Royals:&nbsp;Left-hander Danny Duffy (left forearm flexor strain) threw a bullpen session and could pitch on the trip that starts Tuesday at the New York Yankees.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Adalberto Mondesi hit a 464-foot three-run homer, Salvador Pérez added his 18th home run this season, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Boston Red Sox 5-3 on Friday night for only their second win in their last 13 games.Kansas City trailed 1-0 before Mondesi’s third-inning home run off Nick Pivetta (6-3), Mondesi’s fourth home run in nine games this season. Mondesi has nine RBI.Before a season-high crowd of 29,870 at Kauffman Stadium, Kris Bubic (2-2) won despite allowing two runs and five hits in 2 2/3 innings. Greg Holland pitched a perfect ninth for his fourth save, and the Royals stopped their six-game losing streak.Boston’s Christian Arroyo was ejected by plate umpire Jim Wolf after he took a called third strike for the second out of the ninth on a pitch that Arroyo thought was inside.Whit Merrifield had his fourth straight multi-hit game, including an RBI double in the fifth that boosted Kansas City’s lead to 4-2.The Red Sox went 2 for 9 with runners in scoring position and stranded eight runners.Boston faced Kansas City for the first time since dealing outfielder Andrew Benintendi to the Royals on Feb. 10 as part of a three-team trade. Benintendi is missing the series because of a broken rib.Kansas City used an opener for the first time this season, and Kyle Zimmer allowed three hits in two scoreless innings.Pivetta gave up three runs and six hits in five innings. He is 0-3 in four starts after starting the season 6-0.Alex Verdugo’s RBI single put Boston ahead in the third, and J.D. Martinez hit a run-scoring single in the fifth that closed the Red Sox to 3-2.Pérez homered in the seventh off Matt Andriese, a drive just over the wall in right.Rafael Devers hit his 17th homer, a solo drive in the eighth off Scott Barlow, who had not allowed a home run in 38 innings.ROSTER MOVESRoyals:&nbsp;Outfielder Edward Olivares was optioned to Triple-A Omaha. The Royals selected the contract of right-hander Anthony Swarzak from Omaha and transferred right-hander Ronald Bolanos from the 10-day to the 60-day IL.TRAINER’S ROOMRed Sox:&nbsp;Left-hander Chris Sale (Tommy John surgery in March 2020) threw a 40-pitch simulated game at Triple-A Worcester. Sale said he felt good and thought the session was a step in the right direction. His next bullpen session is set for Tuesday.Royals:&nbsp;Left-hander Danny Duffy (left forearm flexor strain) threw a bullpen session and could pitch on the trip that starts Tuesday at the New York Yankees.

⚾ Royals halt six-game skid with win over Red Sox

HAYS – The Hays Larks kicked off their 75th anniversary
weekend celebration with a 10-4 win over the Denver Cougars in front of another
large Larks Park crowd Friday night. The Larks improve to 7-1 overall and 4-1
in the Rocky Mountain Baseball League.

Many former Larks players including former Major Leaguer Jim Leyritz were in attendance and recognized between innings.

Grant Lung had three of the Larks 11 hits and drove in two
runs. Cam Pehrson, Cade Brown and Leo Jiminian all added two hits with Jiminian
driving in two runs.

Starter Wyatt Divis (3-0) allowed one run on seven hits with
six strikeouts and no walks over six innings for the win. Jackson Blue allowed
three runs on two hits over two innings of relief. Cade Brown closed it out
with a scoreless ninth.

Down 1-0, the Larks took the lead for good with a three run
fourth. Palmer Hutchison and Cam Pehrson had run scoring singles and Grant Lung
added an RBI double. After adding a run in the sixth on a Lung single, they put
the game away with four in the seventh then two in the eighth. Leo Jiminian
drove in two runs with a double to left. Zach Henry added a sacrifice fly
scoring Jiminian.

The Cougars (3-9) scored three in the top of the eighth but
the Larks answered with two in the bottom of the inning for the final margin. 

The Larks and Cougars play game two of the three-game series
Saturday night at 7:00 p.m. before closing out the series Sunday night at 7:00
p.m. You can hear Sunday’s game on KAYS (1400-AM, 94.3-FM).

HAYS – The Hays Larks kicked off their 75th anniversary
weekend celebration with a 10-4 win over the Denver Cougars in front of another
large Larks Park crowd Friday night. The Larks improve to 7-1 overall and 4-1
in the Rocky Mountain Baseball League.Many former Larks players including former Major Leaguer Jim Leyritz were in attendance and recognized between innings.Grant Lung had three of the Larks 11 hits and drove in two
runs. Cam Pehrson, Cade Brown and Leo Jiminian all added two hits with Jiminian
driving in two runs.Starter Wyatt Divis (3-0) allowed one run on seven hits with
six strikeouts and no walks over six innings for the win. Jackson Blue allowed
three runs on two hits over two innings of relief. Cade Brown closed it out
with a scoreless ninth.Down 1-0, the Larks took the lead for good with a three run
fourth. Palmer Hutchison and Cam Pehrson had run scoring singles and Grant Lung
added an RBI double. After adding a run in the sixth on a Lung single, they put
the game away with four in the seventh then two in the eighth. Leo Jiminian
drove in two runs with a double to left. Zach Henry added a sacrifice fly
scoring Jiminian.The Cougars (3-9) scored three in the top of the eighth but
the Larks answered with two in the bottom of the inning for the final margin. The Larks and Cougars play game two of the three-game series
Saturday night at 7:00 p.m. before closing out the series Sunday night at 7:00
p.m. You can hear Sunday’s game on KAYS (1400-AM, 94.3-FM).

⚾ Larks take series opener with Cougars

By TOMMY REZAC <a href="https://stjosephpost.com">St. Joseph Post</a>

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — The city of St. 
Joseph and Missouri Western State University will soon know for sure 
what the Kansas City Chiefs’ plan is for training camp.

The NFL 
has given the green light for all 32 teams to travel to their training 
camp sites this summer. Fans will also be allowed to watch as long as 
state and local protocols are followed.

Training camp has been at 
Missouri Western’s campus since 2010. It was held in Kansas City's 
practice facility last summer due to COVID-19. 

Missouri Western 
athletic director Josh Looney says the school's relationship with the 
Chiefs has always been positive, and he looks forward to hearing their 
plans about training camp soon.

"Obviously at Missouri Western, we
 feel very confident in our ability to host a camp this year and meet 
protocol," Looney told the Post in an interview. "We continue to work 
with the Chiefs and we're not in a position to share any dates or 
confirm things, and so it's still a bit of a waiting game."

The Chiefs are contracted to hold training camp in St. Joseph through
 2024. A full training camp schedule is expected to be announced in the 
next week or two.

"We'll follow the NFL's lead and adapt and we 
feel like we're in a good position to follow whatever protocols are 
necessary regarding training camp in 2021," Looney said.

Training 
camp has always brought hundreds of fans from Kansas City and beyond to 
St. Joseph, giving local restaurants, hotels and businesses a nice 
boost.

Looney says Kansas City's recent run of five straight 
division titles, back-to-back conference titles and a 2020 Super Bowl 
win has fueled the excitement, especially during the 2019 camp.

"We
 had a record camp and it was an unbelievable atmosphere," Looney 
recalled. "A sea of red throughout the community. We had a rally 
downtown to welcome the team to camp. Then, they go and win the Super 
Bowl. Then, in 2020 it was canceled and we were expecting another record
 camp, so I think there's pent up demand."

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

By TOMMY REZAC <a href="https://stjosephpost.com">St. Joseph Post</a>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — The city of St. 
Joseph and Missouri Western State University will soon know for sure 
what the Kansas City Chiefs’ plan is for training camp.The NFL 
has given the green light for all 32 teams to travel to their training 
camp sites this summer. Fans will also be allowed to watch as long as 
state and local protocols are followed.Training camp has been at 
Missouri Western’s campus since 2010. It was held in Kansas City's 
practice facility last summer due to COVID-19. Missouri Western 
athletic director Josh Looney says the school's relationship with the 
Chiefs has always been positive, and he looks forward to hearing their 
plans about training camp soon."Obviously at Missouri Western, we
 feel very confident in our ability to host a camp this year and meet 
protocol," Looney told the Post in an interview. "We continue to work 
with the Chiefs and we're not in a position to share any dates or 
confirm things, and so it's still a bit of a waiting game."The Chiefs are contracted to hold training camp in St. Joseph through
 2024. A full training camp schedule is expected to be announced in the 
next week or two."We'll follow the NFL's lead and adapt and we 
feel like we're in a good position to follow whatever protocols are 
necessary regarding training camp in 2021," Looney said.Training 
camp has always brought hundreds of fans from Kansas City and beyond to 
St. Joseph, giving local restaurants, hotels and businesses a nice 
boost.Looney says Kansas City's recent run of five straight 
division titles, back-to-back conference titles and a 2020 Super Bowl 
win has fueled the excitement, especially during the 2019 camp."We
 had a record camp and it was an unbelievable atmosphere," Looney 
recalled. "A sea of red throughout the community. We had a rally 
downtown to welcome the team to camp. Then, they go and win the Super 
Bowl. Then, in 2020 it was canceled and we were expecting another record
 camp, so I think there's pent up demand."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Missouri Western officials optimistic about return of Chiefs training camp

OMAHA – The Hays Eagles Junior American Legion baseball team
dropped their first two games at the Battle of Omaha Tournament Thursday. Hays
dropped their opener 12-5 to Norris, Neb. then lost 11-3 to Burke-Primetime at
Burke high school.

Norris scored seven runs in the top of the fifth inning to
break open a one-run game in the opener. Cooper Sanders had two hits including
a triple and drove in a run for the Junior Eagles.

Burke-Primetime scored at least one run in every inning in
the second game. Caden Morgan led the Eagles at the plate with two of their
five hits.

The Junior Eagles (3-7) play two more pool play games
Friday.

The Senior Legion and 15U Eagles begin play in Omaha Monday.


OMAHA – The Hays Eagles Junior American Legion baseball team
dropped their first two games at the Battle of Omaha Tournament Thursday. Hays
dropped their opener 12-5 to Norris, Neb. then lost 11-3 to Burke-Primetime at
Burke high school.Norris scored seven runs in the top of the fifth inning to
break open a one-run game in the opener. Cooper Sanders had two hits including
a triple and drove in a run for the Junior Eagles.Burke-Primetime scored at least one run in every inning in
the second game. Caden Morgan led the Eagles at the plate with two of their
five hits.The Junior Eagles (3-7) play two more pool play games
Friday.The Senior Legion and 15U Eagles begin play in Omaha Monday.

⚾ Junior Legion drops first two games in Omaha

We visit with former "Voice of the Tigers" Steve Webster.

We visit with former "Voice of the Tigers" Steve Webster.<div><iframe title="Steve Webster" 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=rfsun-1069ed2-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: Steve Webster

Arlen Walters loved everything about baseball. He loved the camaraderie. He loved the competition. He loved making history. Walters played and managed for the Hays Larks in the 1950s and 1960s, when the town team was comprised of local players who knew each other on and off the field. “I loved playing baseball; I would have loved playing in the major leagues if they would have let me,” said Walters, whose best position was center field but who also played every position for the Larks except for catcher and right field. “The last 40, 50 years, it’s been primarily college players, who play one or two years and move on. In the early days, if you were able to play, some of those guys played into their 40s.” Walters, now 85 and living in Las Vegas, was 11 years old when the local team was named the Larks in 1946. He remembers going to the park for almost every game that summer, sunflower seeds in hand. He watched his uncle, Ed Walters -- who was a star player -- and his teammates play. “They were my idols,” Walters said. Walters played in the last game of the 1953 season for the Larks, then played full seasons from 1954 through 1957. He played a few games in 1958 before being drafted. After serving in the Army, Walters returned to Hays and played for the Larks from 1962 through 1965. &nbsp;“It was a lot of fun,” Walters said. “There were pretty good rivalries. Victoria and Hays liked to beat each other. Catharine and Hays liked to beat each other. “You knew everybody,” he added. “You knew all the people in Catharine, most of the people in Victoria.” Walters remembered a home-field advantage at Catharine, and the fence at Munjor. “When you went to Catherine you had to be a little careful playing in the outfield, because you could step in a bit of cow dung while chasing a fly ball,” he said. “Over in Munjor they had a snow fence for the outfield. Occasionally, a guy chasing a fly ball would go right through it.” It was fun, but it was serious once the players stepped across the white lines. “Sometimes a little bitter rivalry, but after the game we went and got a beer together,” Walters said. “We just had a lot of fun playing against each other.” Walters enjoyed success at the plate for the Larks. He led the team in hitting three times, batting .341 in 1955; .405 in 1963; and .381 in his final season, 1965. Walters even hit three homers in a game, but of all the games he played in a Larks uniform, one stands out. On July 25, 1962, the Larks trailed rival Victoria 1-0 heading into the bottom of the ninth inning. Ace pitcher Tony “Red” Pfeifer had shut down the Larks hitters, striking out 12 batters going into the ninth. But Ken Haas led off the inning with a home run to tie the game, and the Larks loaded the bases for Walters, who came to the plate with one out. Pfeifer, who had struck out Walters his three previous times at the plate, had a 0-2 count on him. Walters got a pitch he liked, and belted a grand slam to give the Larks a 5-1 victory. “That was the best feeling I had,” Walters said. Walters heard somebody say something as he was rounding the bases. “On the way by, ‘Red’ said, ‘nice hit, Arlen,’ ” Walters recalled. “That’s the way we played each other.” Walters also is proud of something he did as Larks manager. He believes he added the first Black player to don a Larks uniform. That player was an outfielder by the name of Ken Jones, who showed up before a game early in the 1963 season. “He came out one evening before a game,” Walters said. “He said, ‘I would like to try out for your team.’ I said, ‘Grab a bat, and let’s see what you can do.’ I got ‘Raschi’ Pfeifer to pitch to him, and he looked good to me. I said, ‘Come on, we’ll get you a uniform.’ ” Jones played for the Larks in 1963 and 1964. “I honestly think he was the first African-American player to put on a Larks uniform,” Walters said. “He was a nice fellow. I always felt pretty good about that.” Walters came back for the 50th Larks reunion, and is back in Hays for the 75th anniversary celebration this weekend. He still remembers that first year in 1946, when the squad became the Larks after a name-the-team contest. “It’s hard to believe, but I was there that first year,” said Walters, who still fondly remembers his years in a Larks uniform. “Just the friendship and competition with a bunch of nice fellows.”

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/18924e20-3a18-49a5-a680-f92be0499251">75th anniversary party: Big night Friday at Larks Park</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624025401731.jpeg" alt="Arlen Walters, left, is with Hays Larks teammate Clair Dome before a game in Victoria. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Arlen Walters, left, is with Hays Larks teammate Clair Dome before a game in Victoria. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedArlen Walters loved everything about baseball. He loved the camaraderie. He loved the competition. He loved making history. Walters played and managed for the Hays Larks in the 1950s and 1960s, when the town team was comprised of local players who knew each other on and off the field. “I loved playing baseball; I would have loved playing in the major leagues if they would have let me,” said Walters, whose best position was center field but who also played every position for the Larks except for catcher and right field. “The last 40, 50 years, it’s been primarily college players, who play one or two years and move on. In the early days, if you were able to play, some of those guys played into their 40s.” Walters, now 85 and living in Las Vegas, was 11 years old when the local team was named the Larks in 1946. He remembers going to the park for almost every game that summer, sunflower seeds in hand. He watched his uncle, Ed Walters -- who was a star player -- and his teammates play. “They were my idols,” Walters said. Walters played in the last game of the 1953 season for the Larks, then played full seasons from 1954 through 1957. He played a few games in 1958 before being drafted. After serving in the Army, Walters returned to Hays and played for the Larks from 1962 through 1965. &nbsp;“It was a lot of fun,” Walters said. “There were pretty good rivalries. Victoria and Hays liked to beat each other. Catharine and Hays liked to beat each other. “You knew everybody,” he added. “You knew all the people in Catharine, most of the people in Victoria.” Walters remembered a home-field advantage at Catharine, and the fence at Munjor. “When you went to Catherine you had to be a little careful playing in the outfield, because you could step in a bit of cow dung while chasing a fly ball,” he said. “Over in Munjor they had a snow fence for the outfield. Occasionally, a guy chasing a fly ball would go right through it.” It was fun, but it was serious once the players stepped across the white lines. “Sometimes a little bitter rivalry, but after the game we went and got a beer together,” Walters said. “We just had a lot of fun playing against each other.” Walters enjoyed success at the plate for the Larks. He led the team in hitting three times, batting .341 in 1955; .405 in 1963; and .381 in his final season, 1965. Walters even hit three homers in a game, but of all the games he played in a Larks uniform, one stands out. On July 25, 1962, the Larks trailed rival Victoria 1-0 heading into the bottom of the ninth inning. Ace pitcher Tony “Red” Pfeifer had shut down the Larks hitters, striking out 12 batters going into the ninth. But Ken Haas led off the inning with a home run to tie the game, and the Larks loaded the bases for Walters, who came to the plate with one out. Pfeifer, who had struck out Walters his three previous times at the plate, had a 0-2 count on him. Walters got a pitch he liked, and belted a grand slam to give the Larks a 5-1 victory. “That was the best feeling I had,” Walters said. Walters heard somebody say something as he was rounding the bases. “On the way by, ‘Red’ said, ‘nice hit, Arlen,’ ” Walters recalled. “That’s the way we played each other.” Walters also is proud of something he did as Larks manager. He believes he added the first Black player to don a Larks uniform. That player was an outfielder by the name of Ken Jones, who showed up before a game early in the 1963 season. “He came out one evening before a game,” Walters said. “He said, ‘I would like to try out for your team.’ I said, ‘Grab a bat, and let’s see what you can do.’ I got ‘Raschi’ Pfeifer to pitch to him, and he looked good to me. I said, ‘Come on, we’ll get you a uniform.’ ” Jones played for the Larks in 1963 and 1964. “I honestly think he was the first African-American player to put on a Larks uniform,” Walters said. “He was a nice fellow. I always felt pretty good about that.” Walters came back for the 50th Larks reunion, and is back in Hays for the 75th anniversary celebration this weekend. He still remembers that first year in 1946, when the squad became the Larks after a name-the-team contest. “It’s hard to believe, but I was there that first year,” said Walters, who still fondly remembers his years in a Larks uniform. “Just the friendship and competition with a bunch of nice fellows.”<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/18924e20-3a18-49a5-a680-f92be0499251">75th anniversary party: Big night Friday at Larks Park</a>

LARKS MEMORIES: Walters remembers time with Larks

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball announced the signing of Collin Woods for the upcoming 2021-22 season. The 6-foot, 5-inch Chicago area native comes to FHSU after spending a year playing post-grad prep basketball at Hillcrest Prep in Gilbert, Arizona. Woods was a standout player at Hampshire (Ill.) High School in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Woods is a versatile guard with the ability to play several positions on the perimeter. Woods was a two-time all-area and all-conference performer at Hampshire High School. He helped his team to the IHSA Regional Championship in 2020 before the cancelation of the remainder of the postseason due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Woods put up solid and consistent all-around numbers his final two years of high school. As a senior he averaged 10.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. As a junior, he averaged 14 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.7 steals per game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624011053767.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball announced the signing of Collin Woods for the upcoming 2021-22 season. The 6-foot, 5-inch Chicago area native comes to FHSU after spending a year playing post-grad prep basketball at Hillcrest Prep in Gilbert, Arizona. Woods was a standout player at Hampshire (Ill.) High School in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Woods is a versatile guard with the ability to play several positions on the perimeter. Woods was a two-time all-area and all-conference performer at Hampshire High School. He helped his team to the IHSA Regional Championship in 2020 before the cancelation of the remainder of the postseason due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Woods put up solid and consistent all-around numbers his final two years of high school. As a senior he averaged 10.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. As a junior, he averaged 14 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.7 steals per game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 Tigers sign Chicago area native Collin Woods

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs wrapped up their three-day mandatory minicamp Thursday with a sense of optimism that comes from the offseason additions to the roster and&nbsp;playing in the last two Super Bowls.

These three days comprised the final practices the Chiefs will have in Phase 3 of the offseason program ahead of training camp which begins late July.

Head coach Andy Reid was most pleased that he could see his player in person.

"On these Zoom calls, you can install," he said following Thursday's practice. "You can talk about fundamentals and techniques, but you can't work on them, and that's just what's real.

"This gives you an opportunity to actually run the plays and work on the fundamentals and techniques. … The coaches have evaluated their last season and (can) help them get better with the techniques and fundamentals that they might need this season.

"I think it's a win-win. I think it's great to have the technology, but at the same time, I think it's important that we're still able to get them on the field."

The Chiefs were looking to upgrade one of the league's best offenses, particularly the offensive line. During February's Super Bowl, quarterback Patrick Mahomes was pressured a Super Bowl-record 29 times. According to NextGenStats, via Seth Walder of ESPN.com, Mahomes ran 497 yards before throwing the ball or being sacked.

So the Chiefs traded for a new starting left tackle, signed a free agent left guard, signed a free agent center and drafted another center, and got two linemen back from last year who sat out because of Covid.

Mahomes should be more comfortable this season. That, and the motivation of losing in the biggest game last season, has him ready to go.

"When you get beat like that on a stage like that, you're going to (be motivated) at all times. I'm going to try to make sure that doesn't happen again no matter what game it is."

"It's probably top of the list. It's been everything I've asked for. I feel like I can play football anywhere, but when you develop certain relationships with certain people, these people become a part of your life. So, Coach Spags (Steve Spagnuolo), Coach Merritt, Coach Reid, Coach Rubin, our strength coach, all these men have been important to me, so I can't see me ever walking away from that relationship."— safety Tyrann Mathieu on his desire to sign a contract extension and finish his career with the Chiefs.

"I feel like I can be productive inside, outside, just wherever the team puts me. I think there are more advantages on the outside because of the fact you can't really double-team. You can chip, but you're not really getting as many double-teams as a three-tech would in this defense, so I'm excited about that." — defensive end Chris Jones on how he thinks he'll do in his new role (he played defensive tackle since his rookie year in 2016).

"Talking to Coach Reid and also Pat (Mahomes), there are things we're implementing to get the ball to the back and just get the ball spread out more. So, that was one of the things on why I chose to work on my hands and just be more of a threat. It was seen that I can run the ball between the tackles, outside. Being able to also get out, and not just routes out of the backfield but also spread out in the slot position and also the outside wideout position (will) expand my skill set." — running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire on becoming more involved in the passing game.

"Back home in Montreal, the gym has been closed for the past year. I was able to stay in pretty good shape, but I think when it comes to football shape, there's no other treatment than just playing football. Today was a great day, a great start and I'm looking forward to more practices. I think that's the key, is to get exposure, get some reps."— guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, a licensed physician who missed the 2020 season to work in a long-term care facility in his home country of Canada.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs wrapped up their three-day mandatory minicamp Thursday with a sense of optimism that comes from the offseason additions to the roster and&nbsp;playing in the last two Super Bowls.These three days comprised the final practices the Chiefs will have in Phase 3 of the offseason program ahead of training camp which begins late July.Head coach Andy Reid was most pleased that he could see his player in person."On these Zoom calls, you can install," he said following Thursday's practice. "You can talk about fundamentals and techniques, but you can't work on them, and that's just what's real."This gives you an opportunity to actually run the plays and work on the fundamentals and techniques. … The coaches have evaluated their last season and (can) help them get better with the techniques and fundamentals that they might need this season."I think it's a win-win. I think it's great to have the technology, but at the same time, I think it's important that we're still able to get them on the field."The Chiefs were looking to upgrade one of the league's best offenses, particularly the offensive line. During February's Super Bowl, quarterback Patrick Mahomes was pressured a Super Bowl-record 29 times. According to NextGenStats, via Seth Walder of ESPN.com, Mahomes ran 497 yards before throwing the ball or being sacked.So the Chiefs traded for a new starting left tackle, signed a free agent left guard, signed a free agent center and drafted another center, and got two linemen back from last year who sat out because of Covid.Mahomes should be more comfortable this season. That, and the motivation of losing in the biggest game last season, has him ready to go."When you get beat like that on a stage like that, you're going to (be motivated) at all times. I'm going to try to make sure that doesn't happen again no matter what game it is."They said it:"It's probably top of the list. It's been everything I've asked for. I feel like I can play football anywhere, but when you develop certain relationships with certain people, these people become a part of your life. So, Coach Spags (Steve Spagnuolo), Coach Merritt, Coach Reid, Coach Rubin, our strength coach, all these men have been important to me, so I can't see me ever walking away from that relationship."— safety Tyrann Mathieu on his desire to sign a contract extension and finish his career with the Chiefs."I feel like I can be productive inside, outside, just wherever the team puts me. I think there are more advantages on the outside because of the fact you can't really double-team. You can chip, but you're not really getting as many double-teams as a three-tech would in this defense, so I'm excited about that." — defensive end Chris Jones on how he thinks he'll do in his new role (he played defensive tackle since his rookie year in 2016)."Talking to Coach Reid and also Pat (Mahomes), there are things we're implementing to get the ball to the back and just get the ball spread out more. So, that was one of the things on why I chose to work on my hands and just be more of a threat. It was seen that I can run the ball between the tackles, outside. Being able to also get out, and not just routes out of the backfield but also spread out in the slot position and also the outside wideout position (will) expand my skill set." — running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire on becoming more involved in the passing game."Back home in Montreal, the gym has been closed for the past year. I was able to stay in pretty good shape, but I think when it comes to football shape, there's no other treatment than just playing football. Today was a great day, a great start and I'm looking forward to more practices. I think that's the key, is to get exposure, get some reps."— guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, a licensed physician who missed the 2020 season to work in a long-term care facility in his home country of Canada.

🏈 Chiefs wrap up 3-day mandatory minicamp with optimism

Several area golfers have been recognized by the Kansas Golf
Coaches Association’s&nbsp; boys All-State
teams.

<a href="https://twitter.com/HaysHighAD/status/1405495691456167938/photo/1">Kansas Golf Association All-State Teams</a>

Parker Krob of Plainville was named to the first team in
Class 2A while Brady Frickey of Ellis was named to the second team. Krob was
the individual state champion at last month’s the 2A state tournament.

Hays High’s Jason Krannawitter is an honorable mention
selection in Class 5A. Ty Sides of Phillipsburg is an honorable mention pick in Class 3A.

Osborne’s Brandon Befort was named to the first team in
Class 1A with teammates Grady Wolters named second team and Dayton Lantz
honorable mention.

Several area golfers have been recognized by the Kansas Golf
Coaches Association’s&nbsp; boys All-State
teams.<a href="https://twitter.com/HaysHighAD/status/1405495691456167938/photo/1">Kansas Golf Association All-State Teams</a>Parker Krob of Plainville was named to the first team in
Class 2A while Brady Frickey of Ellis was named to the second team. Krob was
the individual state champion at last month’s the 2A state tournament.Hays High’s Jason Krannawitter is an honorable mention
selection in Class 5A. Ty Sides of Phillipsburg is an honorable mention pick in Class 3A.Osborne’s Brandon Befort was named to the first team in
Class 1A with teammates Grady Wolters named second team and Dayton Lantz
honorable mention.

⛳ Area golfers honored by the Kansas Golf Association

The Hays Larks will celebrate their 75th anniversary season at Friday night’s home game against the Denver Cougars. Game time has changed; it will be an hour earlier, with first pitch at 6 p.m. at Larks Park.

More than 60 Larks legends are expected to return to Hays this weekend. They will be introduced between innings at Friday’s game. After the game, there will be a free concert at the park, with the band Homebrew performing.

Larks baseball cards are available for purchase starting Friday, at the Phaze 2 apparel store at the park. The store also will have available for purchase 75th anniversary caps, T-shirts and women’s tank tops.

Also at Friday’s game, raffle tickets will go on sale for a Larks jersey signed by Albert Pujols and Lance Berkman. A total of 150 tickets costing $20 each will be sold, with the winner announced once all tickets have been purchased.

Larks fans also can view signs on the back grandstand of former Larks who went on to have notable careers in the major leagues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620244103982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Larks will celebrate their 75th anniversary season at Friday night’s home game against the Denver Cougars. Game time has changed; it will be an hour earlier, with first pitch at 6 p.m. at Larks Park.More than 60 Larks legends are expected to return to Hays this weekend. They will be introduced between innings at Friday’s game. After the game, there will be a free concert at the park, with the band Homebrew performing.Larks baseball cards are available for purchase starting Friday, at the Phaze 2 apparel store at the park. The store also will have available for purchase 75th anniversary caps, T-shirts and women’s tank tops.Also at Friday’s game, raffle tickets will go on sale for a Larks jersey signed by Albert Pujols and Lance Berkman. A total of 150 tickets costing $20 each will be sold, with the winner announced once all tickets have been purchased.Larks fans also can view signs on the back grandstand of former Larks who went on to have notable careers in the major leagues.

75th anniversary party: Big night Friday at Larks Park

HAYS - Hays Larks outfielder Grant Schmidt shrugged off a slow start and provided the late game heroics with a walk-off home run Wednesday night in an 8-7 Hays win over the Kansas Cannons at Larks Park.

The Larks (7-1, 3-1 RMBL) found themselves in a early 3-0 hole after a half inning.

The Cannons loaded the bases with one out in the top of the innings and&nbsp;scored on a sacrificed fly and a two-run single to go up 3-0.

Hays got a run back in the bottom of the inning on an RBI single from Cam Pehrson.

Pehrson drove in his second of three RBI's on a single in the third making it 3-2.

After the Cannons scored two in the top of the fifth to go up 5-2, Hays sent 11 men to the plate in a five-run bottom of the fifth.

In the inning the Larks scored twice on bases loaded walks and then added solo runs on a Leo Jiminian RBI single, Brock Lummus sacrifice fly and a wild pitch to give Hays the 7-5 lead.

The lead was short lived though as the Cannons plated two in the top of the sixth inning to tie the game at seven.

Larks pitching retired 10 of the final 11 hitters they faced and set up the Larks for a chance to win it in the bottom of the ninth.

In the ninth Grant Schmidt lead of the inning and took a 1-2 pitch over the left field wall to give Hays the walk-off 8-7 win.

Grant Schmidt was 0-for-4 with three strikeouts before the ninth inning home run, his fourth of the summer.

Cade Brown was the last of six pitchers on the night for Hays and he picked up the win.

He allowed just one hit in an inning with two strikeouts.

Wyatt Divis finished three-for-five and Matt Cavanagh collected two hits in his first action of the season.

Hays returns to action Friday against the Denver Cougars.&nbsp;

Friday will feature the Larks 75th Anniversary celebration.

HAYS - Hays Larks outfielder Grant Schmidt shrugged off a slow start and provided the late game heroics with a walk-off home run Wednesday night in an 8-7 Hays win over the Kansas Cannons at Larks Park.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1070127925&color=%23843f62&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-814667509/06-16-21-hays-larks-coach-int" title="06 - 16 - 21 Hays Larks Coach Frank Leo" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">06 - 16 - 21 Hays Larks Coach Frank Leo</a></div></div>The Larks (7-1, 3-1 RMBL) found themselves in a early 3-0 hole after a half inning.The Cannons loaded the bases with one out in the top of the innings and&nbsp;scored on a sacrificed fly and a two-run single to go up 3-0.Hays got a run back in the bottom of the inning on an RBI single from Cam Pehrson.Pehrson drove in his second of three RBI's on a single in the third making it 3-2.After the Cannons scored two in the top of the fifth to go up 5-2, Hays sent 11 men to the plate in a five-run bottom of the fifth.In the inning the Larks scored twice on bases loaded walks and then added solo runs on a Leo Jiminian RBI single, Brock Lummus sacrifice fly and a wild pitch to give Hays the 7-5 lead.The lead was short lived though as the Cannons plated two in the top of the sixth inning to tie the game at seven.Larks pitching retired 10 of the final 11 hitters they faced and set up the Larks for a chance to win it in the bottom of the ninth.In the ninth Grant Schmidt lead of the inning and took a 1-2 pitch over the left field wall to give Hays the walk-off 8-7 win.Grant Schmidt was 0-for-4 with three strikeouts before the ninth inning home run, his fourth of the summer.<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/1070127871&color=%23843f62&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-814667509/06-16-21-hays-larks-highlights" title="06 - 16 - 21 Hays Larks Highlights vs Kansas Cannons" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">06 - 16 - 21 Hays Larks Highlights vs Kansas Cannons</a></div></div>Cade Brown was the last of six pitchers on the night for Hays and he picked up the win.He allowed just one hit in an inning with two strikeouts.Wyatt Divis finished three-for-five and Matt Cavanagh collected two hits in his first action of the season.Hays returns to action Friday against the Denver Cougars.&nbsp;Friday will feature the Larks 75th Anniversary celebration.

⚾ Schmidt lifts Larks past Kansas Cannons

GREAT BEND – The Hays Eagles Senior American Legion
baseball team scored three runs in the top of the seventh inning to beat the
Great Bend Chiefs 9-7 in game one of their doubleheader Wednesday night at the
Great Bend Sports Complex. The Chiefs plated an unearned run in the bottom of
the sixth and win the nightcap 4-3.

Brady Kreutzer’s bases-loaded triple in the top
of the seventh inning drove in three to give the Eagles (6-3) the lead for good
in the first game. Kreutzer also homered in the first and drove in four. Dalton
Dale added a two-run homer in the first following a Garrett Wellbrock double off
the fence in left to give Hays and early 3-0 lead. Dale went 3-for-4 and drove
in three runs.

The Chiefs (4-2) scored four in the fourth to tie
the game 6-6 then took the lead with a run in the fifth.

Dalton Dale (1-2) pitched two scoreless innings
of relief and picked up the win after starter Carson Spray allowed seven runs
(two earned) on 10 hits with five strikeouts and two walks over five innings.

The Eagles scored two in the fifth on Ben
Krannawitter’s single to tie the second game 3-3. Great Bend later took
advantage of a one-out error to score the go-ahead run in the sixth inning in
game two.

Krannawitter had two of the Eagles five hits and
drove in two of their three runs.

Garrett Wellbrock (2-1) allowed four runs (three
earned) on four hits with five strikeouts and four walks over 5 2/3 innings and
suffered the loss.

The Eagles return to action Monday morning at the
Battle of Omaha at Omaha-Burke HS.

GREAT BEND – The Hays Eagles Senior American Legion
baseball team scored three runs in the top of the seventh inning to beat the
Great Bend Chiefs 9-7 in game one of their doubleheader Wednesday night at the
Great Bend Sports Complex. The Chiefs plated an unearned run in the bottom of
the sixth and win the nightcap 4-3.Brady Kreutzer’s bases-loaded triple in the top
of the seventh inning drove in three to give the Eagles (6-3) the lead for good
in the first game. Kreutzer also homered in the first and drove in four. Dalton
Dale added a two-run homer in the first following a Garrett Wellbrock double off
the fence in left to give Hays and early 3-0 lead. Dale went 3-for-4 and drove
in three runs.The Chiefs (4-2) scored four in the fourth to tie
the game 6-6 then took the lead with a run in the fifth.Dalton Dale (1-2) pitched two scoreless innings
of relief and picked up the win after starter Carson Spray allowed seven runs
(two earned) on 10 hits with five strikeouts and two walks over five innings.The Eagles scored two in the fifth on Ben
Krannawitter’s single to tie the second game 3-3. Great Bend later took
advantage of a one-out error to score the go-ahead run in the sixth inning in
game two.Krannawitter had two of the Eagles five hits and
drove in two of their three runs.Garrett Wellbrock (2-1) allowed four runs (three
earned) on four hits with five strikeouts and four walks over 5 2/3 innings and
suffered the loss.The Eagles return to action Monday morning at the
Battle of Omaha at Omaha-Burke HS.

⚾ Senior Legion splits with Great Bend

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —&nbsp;Willi Castro homered during a three-run rally in the seventh inning and the Detroit Tigers beat the Kansas City Royals 6-5 Wednesday for a three-game sweep.

It was the Tigers’ first sweep in Kansas City since 2014.

The Royals have lost six in a row and 11 of 12. Kansas City starter Brady Singer was removed after just three innings with tightness in his pitching shoulder.

“It popped up after his last start,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “We knew going into today that we were going to see how he was feeling and try to limit the work. We’ll see how he responds from here, but we were just being cautious.”

Tarik Skubal (4-7) picked up the win. He allowed three runs on six hits in six innings, striking out seven against an all right-handed lineup.

“The whole point as a starting pitcher is to give yourself a chance to continue the game,” Detroit manager A.J. Hinch said. “He’s progressively gotten better at not having the big, explosive innings. He allowed us to slowly and surely get to their bullpen and come from behind and win.”

Skubal had a plan going in, and he stuck with it.

“I threw a lot more changeups than I did sliders,” Skubal said. “I knew the changeup would be a huge pitch for me against this lineup, just being able to work down and expand the zone.”

Michael Fulmer earned his fifth save in six chances.

Adalberto Mondesi hit a home run in his first at-bat since returning from the injured list. Salvador Perez also connected for the Royals, hitting his 17th of the season.

“(Mondesi) is unbelievable,” Matheny said. “The first time he steps in the box, he blasts it.”

Greg Holland (2-2) gave up three runs while getting just one out.

Holland issued a four-pitch walk to the first batter he faced, Niko Goodrum, in the seventh and Castro homered to make it 3-all.

“The hitting coach said after he gets two strikes he likes to throw the breaking pitch,” Castro said. “I was just trying to battle and let my abilities do the work.”

Holland left after a one-out single by Robbie Grossman, and reliever Scott Barlow gave up a single to Akil Baddoo and threw a wild pitch that let the go-ahead run score.

The Tigers’ fifth run also scored on a wild pitch in the eighth and Detroit added a run in the ninth for a 6-3 lead.

Whit Merrifield hit an RBI double with two outs in the Royals ninth and Carlos Santana followed with a run-scoring single. Perez struck out to end the game.

Singer, who allowed one run on four hits, became the first Royals pitcher in five games not to surrender a run in the first inning when he worked around a one-out walk.

Mondesi hit a 445-foot homer in the second, giving the Royals their first lead in 46 innings.

Royals: SS Mondesi was activated from the 10-day IL on Tuesday, but he didn’t appear in the game. He was in the starting lineup Wednesday, batting fifth. Mondesi has been out since May 31 with a left hamstring strain. Matheny said the plan was to activate Mondesi for Wednesday’s game, but RHP Ronald Bolaños was placed on the IL, opening a spot a day earlier. Mondesi was in the on-deck circle as a pinch-hitter when the final out was made.

Tigers: Open a four-game series against the Los Angeles Angels in Anaheim. RHP Matt Manning will make his major league debut. Manning was 1-3 with an 8.07 ERA in seven starts with Triple-A Toledo. The Tigers have not won a season series with the Angels since 2010.

Royals: After an off-day Thursday, Kansas City will continue the homestand with the first of three games against the Boston Red Sox on Friday night. RHP Jackson Kowar (0-2, 36.00 ERA) will try to find the form that made him one of the Royals’ top prospects. Kowar has not lasted more than 1 1/3 innings in either of his starts, and he’s allowed four earned runs in each.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —&nbsp;Willi Castro homered during a three-run rally in the seventh inning and the Detroit Tigers beat the Kansas City Royals 6-5 Wednesday for a three-game sweep.It was the Tigers’ first sweep in Kansas City since 2014.The Royals have lost six in a row and 11 of 12. Kansas City starter Brady Singer was removed after just three innings with tightness in his pitching shoulder.“It popped up after his last start,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “We knew going into today that we were going to see how he was feeling and try to limit the work. We’ll see how he responds from here, but we were just being cautious.”Tarik Skubal (4-7) picked up the win. He allowed three runs on six hits in six innings, striking out seven against an all right-handed lineup.“The whole point as a starting pitcher is to give yourself a chance to continue the game,” Detroit manager A.J. Hinch said. “He’s progressively gotten better at not having the big, explosive innings. He allowed us to slowly and surely get to their bullpen and come from behind and win.”Skubal had a plan going in, and he stuck with it.“I threw a lot more changeups than I did sliders,” Skubal said. “I knew the changeup would be a huge pitch for me against this lineup, just being able to work down and expand the zone.”Michael Fulmer earned his fifth save in six chances.Adalberto Mondesi hit a home run in his first at-bat since returning from the injured list. Salvador Perez also connected for the Royals, hitting his 17th of the season.“(Mondesi) is unbelievable,” Matheny said. “The first time he steps in the box, he blasts it.”Greg Holland (2-2) gave up three runs while getting just one out.Holland issued a four-pitch walk to the first batter he faced, Niko Goodrum, in the seventh and Castro homered to make it 3-all.“The hitting coach said after he gets two strikes he likes to throw the breaking pitch,” Castro said. “I was just trying to battle and let my abilities do the work.”Holland left after a one-out single by Robbie Grossman, and reliever Scott Barlow gave up a single to Akil Baddoo and threw a wild pitch that let the go-ahead run score.The Tigers’ fifth run also scored on a wild pitch in the eighth and Detroit added a run in the ninth for a 6-3 lead.Whit Merrifield hit an RBI double with two outs in the Royals ninth and Carlos Santana followed with a run-scoring single. Perez struck out to end the game.Singer, who allowed one run on four hits, became the first Royals pitcher in five games not to surrender a run in the first inning when he worked around a one-out walk.Mondesi hit a 445-foot homer in the second, giving the Royals their first lead in 46 innings.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: SS Mondesi was activated from the 10-day IL on Tuesday, but he didn’t appear in the game. He was in the starting lineup Wednesday, batting fifth. Mondesi has been out since May 31 with a left hamstring strain. Matheny said the plan was to activate Mondesi for Wednesday’s game, but RHP Ronald Bolaños was placed on the IL, opening a spot a day earlier. Mondesi was in the on-deck circle as a pinch-hitter when the final out was made.UP NEXTTigers: Open a four-game series against the Los Angeles Angels in Anaheim. RHP Matt Manning will make his major league debut. Manning was 1-3 with an 8.07 ERA in seven starts with Triple-A Toledo. The Tigers have not won a season series with the Angels since 2010.Royals: After an off-day Thursday, Kansas City will continue the homestand with the first of three games against the Boston Red Sox on Friday night. RHP Jackson Kowar (0-2, 36.00 ERA) will try to find the form that made him one of the Royals’ top prospects. Kowar has not lasted more than 1 1/3 innings in either of his starts, and he’s allowed four earned runs in each.

⚾ Bullpen falters in Royals' loss to Tigers

It is a familiar face with a new name now at the helm of the Hays High softball program. Wednesday afternoon, Athletic Director Lance Krannawitter introduced Abby Gillan as the new head softball coach. Gillan, formally Maska, was head coach from 2009 through 2015.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623877313271.jpeg" alt="Abby Gillan" />
 <figcaption>Abby Gillan</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostIt is a familiar face with a new name now at the helm of the Hays High softball program. Wednesday afternoon, Athletic Director Lance Krannawitter introduced Abby Gillan as the new head softball coach. Gillan, formally Maska, was head coach from 2009 through 2015.&nbsp;Her first tenure included a record of 101-54, the 2011 Western Athletic Conference Title, three 5A state softball tournament appearances and a fourth place state finish in 2011.Gillan said she has no preconceived notions about the players who will join the program in 2022 as it has been seven years between head coaching stints. Her advice for potential players between now and next season? Hit the weight room. Gillan sees the weight room as the best way to prevent injuries and improve athleticism.&nbsp;Coach Abby Gillan<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1069981618&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/abby-gillan" title="Abby Gillan" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Abby Gillan</a></div></div>Twenty-six players were in attendance Wednesday with several others missing due to work and other prior commitments. Any player that missed the meeting or has an interest in softball is encouraged to check out the program. Her expectations are simple. Work hard. Integrity. Honor.Gillan played softball for Hays High and Fort Hays State University. She was an assistant coach at Salina South for her first coaching experience before returning to Hays High. She taught sociology, American history and AP U.S. government this past school year.