ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — Top Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton injured his right shoulder at practice Thursday.

Sutton landed awkwardly after catching a high pass and was being looked at by trainers as the open media period ended.

There was no immediate word about the nature or severity of Sutton’s injury, which occurred 48 hours after the Broncos lost their best player, linebacker Von Miller, to a serious ankle tendon injury at an indoor practice Tuesday.

Sutton’s injury came with the Broncos practicing outside, and it occurred about an hour after the third-year receiver spoke on a Zoom media call about the need for every player to step up with Miller likely out for the season.

Last season, Sutton caught 72 passes for 1,112 yards and six touchdowns while working with three different quarterbacks. He had 42 receptions for 704 yards and four TDs his rookie season.

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — Top Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton injured his right shoulder at practice Thursday.Sutton landed awkwardly after catching a high pass and was being looked at by trainers as the open media period ended.There was no immediate word about the nature or severity of Sutton’s injury, which occurred 48 hours after the Broncos lost their best player, linebacker Von Miller, to a serious ankle tendon injury at an indoor practice Tuesday.Sutton’s injury came with the Broncos practicing outside, and it occurred about an hour after the third-year receiver spoke on a Zoom media call about the need for every player to step up with Miller likely out for the season.Last season, Sutton caught 72 passes for 1,112 yards and six touchdowns while working with three different quarterbacks. He had 42 receptions for 704 yards and four TDs his rookie season.

Courtland Sutton injures right shoulder during practice

TOPEKA, Kan. - The Kansas Volleyball Association is pleased to announce&nbsp;the 2020 Week 1 Volleyball Rankings. Records listed reflect information that was submitted by&nbsp;Monday, September 7.

Several area teams are in the first poll of the regular season. TMP-Marian, who was ranked No. 4 in Class 3A in the preseason poll is down one spot to No. 5. Phillipsburg drops two spots to No. 7.

In Class 1A - Division 1, Victoria is down four spots to No. 8. Thunder Ridge was not ranked in the preseason poll but is in this week at No. 9.

In Class 1A - Division 2, defending 1A state champ Central Plains remains No. 1, Wheatland/Grinnell drops three spots to No. 9 and Otis-Bison debuts at No. 10.

Current classifications for the rankings are based on enrollments from&nbsp;2019-20 and the rankings will be adjusted when the updated classifications are released at the&nbsp;end of September.

Class 6A 1. Washburn Rural 2-1 (1) 2. Blue Valley 0-0 (2) 3. Blue Valley West 0-0 (3) 4. Olathe Northwest 0-0 (4) 5. Shawnee Mission Northwest 0-0 (5) 6. Blue Valley North 0-0 (6) 7. Gardner-Edgerton 0-0 (7) 8. Blue Valley Northwest 0-0 (9) 9. Olathe West 0-0 (10) 10. Hutchinson 6-0 (NR)&nbsp;

Class 5A 1. St. Thomas Aquinas 3-0 (1) 2. St. James Academy 2-1 (3) 3. Spring Hill 2-1 (2) 4. Lansing 1-0 (4) 5. Bishop Carroll 2-1 (5) 6. McPherson 6-0 (6) 7. Maize South 5-1 (10) 8. Bonner Springs 2-0 (7) 9. De Soto 2-0 (NR) 10. Newton 4-2 (NR)&nbsp;

Class 4A 1. Andale 4-1 (1) 2. Topeka-Hayden 1-0 (2) 3. Circle 2-0 (3) 4. Louisburg 2-1 (4) 5. Bishop Miege 0-0 (5) 6. Eudora 0-0 (6) 7. Nickerson 3-1 (7) 8. Holton 2-0 (9) 9. Independence 1-1 (8) 10. Wamego 0-2 (10)

Class 3A 1. Royal Valley 7-0 (1) 2. Cheney 4-0 (2) 3. Wichita-Trinity Academy 0-0 (3) 4. Smoky Valley 4-1 (8) 5. Thomas More Prep-Marian 8-1 (4) 6. Sabetha 6-0 (NR) 7. Phillipsburg 4-0 (5) 8. Silver Lake 6-1 (6) 9. Nemaha Central 4-2 (7) 10. Wellsville 4-0 (NR)

Class 2A 1. Valley Heights 5-1 (1) 2. St. Mary’s-Colgan 3-0 (2) 3. Garden Plain 2-0 (3) 4. Jefferson County North 2-0 (6) 5. Ellinwood 4-0 (4) 6. Sedgwick 5-1 (5) 7. Wabaunsee 8-0 (NR) 8. Heritage Christian 5-1 (NR) 9. Belle Plaine 3-0 (9) 10. Herington 2-0 (NR)

Class 1A – Division 1 1. Rural Vista 2-0 (1) 2. Olpe 5-0 (3) 3. Pretty Prairie 5-0 (8) 4. Lebo 2-0 (2) 5. Rawlins County 1-0 (5) 6. Burlingame 4-0 (9) 7. Beloit-St. John’s/Tipton 3-0 (10) 8. Victoria 3-1 (4) 9. Thunder Ridge 6-0 (NR) 10. South Central 6-0 (NR)

Class 1A – Division 2 1. Central Plains 0-0 (1) 2. Golden
Plains 8-0 (7) 3. St. Francis 2-0 (5) 4. Attica 4-1 (3) 5. Cunningham 1-1 (2)
 6. Argonia 0-2 (4) 7. Wallace County 4-1 (NR) 8. Central Christian 3-1 (NR) 9.
Wheatland/Grinnell 5-4 (6) 10. Otis-Bison 5-2 (NR)

TOPEKA, Kan. - The Kansas Volleyball Association is pleased to announce&nbsp;the 2020 Week 1 Volleyball Rankings. Records listed reflect information that was submitted by&nbsp;Monday, September 7.Several area teams are in the first poll of the regular season. TMP-Marian, who was ranked No. 4 in Class 3A in the preseason poll is down one spot to No. 5. Phillipsburg drops two spots to No. 7.In Class 1A - Division 1, Victoria is down four spots to No. 8. Thunder Ridge was not ranked in the preseason poll but is in this week at No. 9.In Class 1A - Division 2, defending 1A state champ Central Plains remains No. 1, Wheatland/Grinnell drops three spots to No. 9 and Otis-Bison debuts at No. 10.Current classifications for the rankings are based on enrollments from&nbsp;2019-20 and the rankings will be adjusted when the updated classifications are released at the&nbsp;end of September.Class 6A 1. Washburn Rural 2-1 (1) 2. Blue Valley 0-0 (2) 3. Blue Valley West 0-0 (3) 4. Olathe Northwest 0-0 (4) 5. Shawnee Mission Northwest 0-0 (5) 6. Blue Valley North 0-0 (6) 7. Gardner-Edgerton 0-0 (7) 8. Blue Valley Northwest 0-0 (9) 9. Olathe West 0-0 (10) 10. Hutchinson 6-0 (NR)&nbsp; Class 5A 1. St. Thomas Aquinas 3-0 (1) 2. St. James Academy 2-1 (3) 3. Spring Hill 2-1 (2) 4. Lansing 1-0 (4) 5. Bishop Carroll 2-1 (5) 6. McPherson 6-0 (6) 7. Maize South 5-1 (10) 8. Bonner Springs 2-0 (7) 9. De Soto 2-0 (NR) 10. Newton 4-2 (NR)&nbsp; Class 4A 1. Andale 4-1 (1) 2. Topeka-Hayden 1-0 (2) 3. Circle 2-0 (3) 4. Louisburg 2-1 (4) 5. Bishop Miege 0-0 (5) 6. Eudora 0-0 (6) 7. Nickerson 3-1 (7) 8. Holton 2-0 (9) 9. Independence 1-1 (8) 10. Wamego 0-2 (10) Class 3A 1. Royal Valley 7-0 (1) 2. Cheney 4-0 (2) 3. Wichita-Trinity Academy 0-0 (3) 4. Smoky Valley 4-1 (8) 5. Thomas More Prep-Marian 8-1 (4) 6. Sabetha 6-0 (NR) 7. Phillipsburg 4-0 (5) 8. Silver Lake 6-1 (6) 9. Nemaha Central 4-2 (7) 10. Wellsville 4-0 (NR)Class 2A 1. Valley Heights 5-1 (1) 2. St. Mary’s-Colgan 3-0 (2) 3. Garden Plain 2-0 (3) 4. Jefferson County North 2-0 (6) 5. Ellinwood 4-0 (4) 6. Sedgwick 5-1 (5) 7. Wabaunsee 8-0 (NR) 8. Heritage Christian 5-1 (NR) 9. Belle Plaine 3-0 (9) 10. Herington 2-0 (NR) Class 1A – Division 1 1. Rural Vista 2-0 (1) 2. Olpe 5-0 (3) 3. Pretty Prairie 5-0 (8) 4. Lebo 2-0 (2) 5. Rawlins County 1-0 (5) 6. Burlingame 4-0 (9) 7. Beloit-St. John’s/Tipton 3-0 (10) 8. Victoria 3-1 (4) 9. Thunder Ridge 6-0 (NR) 10. South Central 6-0 (NR) Class 1A – Division 2 1. Central Plains 0-0 (1) 2. Golden
Plains 8-0 (7) 3. St. Francis 2-0 (5) 4. Attica 4-1 (3) 5. Cunningham 1-1 (2)
 6. Argonia 0-2 (4) 7. Wallace County 4-1 (NR) 8. Central Christian 3-1 (NR) 9.
Wheatland/Grinnell 5-4 (6) 10. Otis-Bison 5-2 (NR)

🏐 Week one KVA rankings released

If you missed the Fort Hays State Football Replay on KJLS this past Saturday, we've got you covered. Relive the Tigers comeback win over #18 Central Missouri to open the 2018 season.

If you missed the Fort Hays State Football Replay on KJLS this past Saturday, we've got you covered. Relive the Tigers comeback win over #18 Central Missouri to open the 2018 season.<div><iframe title="FB vs. #18 Central Missouri 083018" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/a6kpv-eb05b1?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=7&pfauth="></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FB vs. #18 Central Missouri (08-30-2018)

LAST MEETING — Chiefs beat Texans 51-31 on Jan. 12 at Arrowhead Stadium in the AFC divisional playoffs

TEXANS OFFENSE — OVERALL (13), RUSH (9), PASS (15).

TEXANS DEFENSE — OVERALL (28), RUSH (25), PASS (29).

CHIEFS OFFENSE — OVERALL (6), RUSH (23), PASS (5).

CHIEFS DEFENSE — OVERALL (17), RUSH (26), PASS (8).

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES — The Chiefs won last January in a divisional playoff game on the way to their first Super Bowl championship in 50 years. The Chiefs rallied from a 24-0 deficit in that game. ... The Chiefs will allow 22% of capacity (about 17,000 fans) into Arrowhead Stadium under COVID-19 restrictions. ... Only twice since 2002 have the road teams beaten the defending Super Bowl champions in the season opener: 2012 and 2017. ... Houston has not won a season opener since beating the Bears 23-14 on Sept. 11, 2016. ... The Texans have won three straight games played on Thursday night. ... Houston would become the first team since Denver in 2014 and 2015 to beat the Chiefs in consecutive seasons on the road. ... Texans QB Deshaun Watson needs 284 yards passing to become the seventh player in NFL history with 10,000 yards in his first 39 games. Watson is the first player in NFL history with at least 25 touchdowns passing and five rushing in consecutive seasons. ... DE J.J. Watt needs two tackles to pass Jonathan Joseph (482) for fifth most in Texans history. ... Watt has 96 sacks, tied for third most in NFL history through a player’s first 112 games. ... Will Fuller V needs 38 yards receiving to pass Arian Foster (2,268) for fifth in Texans history. He needs two TDs receiving to tie Corey Bradford (18) for fifth. ... Texans LB Benardrick McKinney needs 12 tackles to become the third-fastest player in NFL history with 500. ... Kansas City enters the season riding a nine-game win streak. The club is aiming for its franchise-record third straight season of at least 12 wins. ... The Chiefs have won four consecutive AFC West titles. ... Chiefs coach Andy Reid has 222 wins. He needs eight to pass Curly Lambeau for fifth in NFL history. ... Kansas City averaged 6.22 yards per play last season, second only to Dallas (6.46). ... The Chiefs led the NFL in third-down conversion percentage last season (47.6). ... Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes needs 588 yards passing within the next four games to become fastest in NFL history to reach 10,000 for his career. Kurt Warner did it in 36 games. ... Mahomes needs 24 TD passes in the next 12 games to become fastest to 100. Dan Marino reached the mark in 44 games. ... TE Travis Kelce needs one more 100-yard receiving game to tie Otis Taylor (20) for second most in Chiefs history. Tony Gonzalez has 31 of them. ... Kelce is trying to become the first TE in NFL history with five consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. He also needs 81 yards receiving to pass Henry Marshall (6,545) for fourth in franchise history. ... Tommy Townsend will be the first rookie punter for the Chiefs since Dustin Colquitt in 2005. ... Fantasy tip: Chiefs rookie Clyde Edwards-Helaire should be a fantasy star this season. Fellow running back Damien Williams opted out, leaving the first-round pick to take the majority of snaps in the backfield for one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses.

HOUSTON (11-7) at KANSAS CITY (15-4)Thursday, 8:20 p.m. ET, NBCOPENING LINE — Chiefs by 9SERIES RECORD — Chiefs lead 7-5LAST MEETING — Chiefs beat Texans 51-31 on Jan. 12 at Arrowhead Stadium in the AFC divisional playoffsTEXANS OFFENSE — OVERALL (13), RUSH (9), PASS (15).TEXANS DEFENSE — OVERALL (28), RUSH (25), PASS (29).CHIEFS OFFENSE — OVERALL (6), RUSH (23), PASS (5).CHIEFS DEFENSE — OVERALL (17), RUSH (26), PASS (8).STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES — The Chiefs won last January in a divisional playoff game on the way to their first Super Bowl championship in 50 years. The Chiefs rallied from a 24-0 deficit in that game. ... The Chiefs will allow 22% of capacity (about 17,000 fans) into Arrowhead Stadium under COVID-19 restrictions. ... Only twice since 2002 have the road teams beaten the defending Super Bowl champions in the season opener: 2012 and 2017. ... Houston has not won a season opener since beating the Bears 23-14 on Sept. 11, 2016. ... The Texans have won three straight games played on Thursday night. ... Houston would become the first team since Denver in 2014 and 2015 to beat the Chiefs in consecutive seasons on the road. ... Texans QB Deshaun Watson needs 284 yards passing to become the seventh player in NFL history with 10,000 yards in his first 39 games. Watson is the first player in NFL history with at least 25 touchdowns passing and five rushing in consecutive seasons. ... DE J.J. Watt needs two tackles to pass Jonathan Joseph (482) for fifth most in Texans history. ... Watt has 96 sacks, tied for third most in NFL history through a player’s first 112 games. ... Will Fuller V needs 38 yards receiving to pass Arian Foster (2,268) for fifth in Texans history. He needs two TDs receiving to tie Corey Bradford (18) for fifth. ... Texans LB Benardrick McKinney needs 12 tackles to become the third-fastest player in NFL history with 500. ... Kansas City enters the season riding a nine-game win streak. The club is aiming for its franchise-record third straight season of at least 12 wins. ... The Chiefs have won four consecutive AFC West titles. ... Chiefs coach Andy Reid has 222 wins. He needs eight to pass Curly Lambeau for fifth in NFL history. ... Kansas City averaged 6.22 yards per play last season, second only to Dallas (6.46). ... The Chiefs led the NFL in third-down conversion percentage last season (47.6). ... Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes needs 588 yards passing within the next four games to become fastest in NFL history to reach 10,000 for his career. Kurt Warner did it in 36 games. ... Mahomes needs 24 TD passes in the next 12 games to become fastest to 100. Dan Marino reached the mark in 44 games. ... TE Travis Kelce needs one more 100-yard receiving game to tie Otis Taylor (20) for second most in Chiefs history. Tony Gonzalez has 31 of them. ... Kelce is trying to become the first TE in NFL history with five consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. He also needs 81 yards receiving to pass Henry Marshall (6,545) for fourth in franchise history. ... Tommy Townsend will be the first rookie punter for the Chiefs since Dustin Colquitt in 2005. ... Fantasy tip: Chiefs rookie Clyde Edwards-Helaire should be a fantasy star this season. Fellow running back Damien Williams opted out, leaving the first-round pick to take the majority of snaps in the backfield for one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses.

🏈 Chiefs-Texans to open NFL season on Thursday night

CLEVELAND (AP) — Danny Duffy pitched four-hit ball into the sixth inning and snapped a winless streak of nearly six years in Cleveland as the Kansas City Royals beat the Indians 3-0 on Wednesday night.

Adalberto Mondesi had an RBI single in the sixth and Edward Olivares and Nicky Lopez drove in runs in the ninth, giving the Royals their second straight victory after starting September with seven losses.

Duffy (3-3) struck out four and walked four over 5 2/3 innings to win for the first time at Cleveland in eight starts since Sept. 22, 2014. The left-hander was 0-6 at Progressive Field during that span.

“That’s a really good team over there, top to bottom,” said Duffy, who is 4-12 with a 5.11 ERA in his career against the Indians. “You have to respect that lineup, and I have a lot of respect for that team and the way they play the game.”

Jesse Hahn, Josh Staumont and Greg Holland completed a six-hitter as Cleveland left 10 on base. It was Holland’s third save in three chances.

“I know those are some arms that the league is not looking forward to facing,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “(Holland) continues to make really good pitches and his stuff just keeps impressing me. He’s in a really good place.”

The Indians only threatened once against Duffy, loading the bases with one out in the fifth before Francisco Lindor was retired on a short fly to center and Carlos Santana struck out.

“I think we were trying too hard to put the ball into play in that situation,” acting Cleveland manager Sandy Alomar Jr. said.

Mondesi broke the ice against Carlos Carrasco (2-4), driving in Cam Gallagher with no outs in the sixth. Kansas City scored twice off Phil Maton in the ninth when Olivares’ bad-hop triple plated Alex Gordon, and Olivares then came around on Lopez’s single.

Carrasco gave up seven hits in a season-high seven innings while wearing No. 21 as part of the MLB-wide celebration of Roberto Clemente Day. He won the 2019 Roberto Clemente Award for his numerous community endeavors.

The right-hander had six strikeouts, moving into fourth place in Indians history with 1,281. He surpassed Hall of Famers Bob Lemon and Early Wynn, who both had 1,277.

“It was an honor to wear No. 21 today for a lot of reasons,” Carrasco said. “Roberto Clemente was great, on and off the field.”

Delino DeShields went 3 for 4 with a triple for Cleveland, which fell one game behind the first-place White Sox in the AL Central.

Lopez singled three times and Kansas City teammates Whit Merrifield and Olivares had two hits apiece. Olivares has a six-game hitting streak and is batting .385 since joining the Royals in a trade with San Diego.

Indians manager Terry Francona, who briefly visited the ballpark Tuesday, missed his 29th game because of season-long gastrointestinal issues that required surgery.

“I know he’s feeling better, but I’m not sure how much better,” Alomar said.

Kansas City’s Bubba Starling made the defensive play of the night in the dugout. Mondesi lost control of his bat while swinging at a pitch in the first, sending it airborne. The bat struck the netting on top of the first-base dugout, and Starling made a one-hand grab to prevent it from striking any teammates.

Alomar, Lindor, C Roberto Pérez and assistant hitting coach Victor Rodriguez — all natives of Puerto Rico — joined Carrasco in wearing No. 21, along with LHP Brad Hand, the Indians’ 2020 Roberto Clemente Award nominee. Kansas City did not have any active players participate.

Royals: C Salvador Perez (left eye), who has been on the 10-day injured list since Aug. 21, took batting practice Monday at the alternate training site. Perez has been affected by blurry vision.

Indians: 3B José Ramírez (left hand bruise) batted second and went 0 for 2 after sitting out Tuesday. Alomar said Ramirez feels no pain when he bats right-handed, but is unable to switch-hit until the swelling subsides.

Royals: RHP Brady Singer (1-4, 5.58 ERA) has not won in five road starts this season despite holding opponents to a .232 average. He is 0-2 with 24 strikeouts in 25 2/3 innings away from Kansas City.

Indians: RHP Aaron Civale (3-4, 3.72 ERA) is tied with teammate Shane Bieber and Texas’ Lance Lynn for first in the majors with eight starts of at least six innings. Civale’s last home victory was on July 28.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Danny Duffy pitched four-hit ball into the sixth inning and snapped a winless streak of nearly six years in Cleveland as the Kansas City Royals beat the Indians 3-0 on Wednesday night.Adalberto Mondesi had an RBI single in the sixth and Edward Olivares and Nicky Lopez drove in runs in the ninth, giving the Royals their second straight victory after starting September with seven losses.Duffy (3-3) struck out four and walked four over 5 2/3 innings to win for the first time at Cleveland in eight starts since Sept. 22, 2014. The left-hander was 0-6 at Progressive Field during that span.“That’s a really good team over there, top to bottom,” said Duffy, who is 4-12 with a 5.11 ERA in his career against the Indians. “You have to respect that lineup, and I have a lot of respect for that team and the way they play the game.”Jesse Hahn, Josh Staumont and Greg Holland completed a six-hitter as Cleveland left 10 on base. It was Holland’s third save in three chances.“I know those are some arms that the league is not looking forward to facing,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “(Holland) continues to make really good pitches and his stuff just keeps impressing me. He’s in a really good place.”The Indians only threatened once against Duffy, loading the bases with one out in the fifth before Francisco Lindor was retired on a short fly to center and Carlos Santana struck out.“I think we were trying too hard to put the ball into play in that situation,” acting Cleveland manager Sandy Alomar Jr. said.Mondesi broke the ice against Carlos Carrasco (2-4), driving in Cam Gallagher with no outs in the sixth. Kansas City scored twice off Phil Maton in the ninth when Olivares’ bad-hop triple plated Alex Gordon, and Olivares then came around on Lopez’s single.Carrasco gave up seven hits in a season-high seven innings while wearing No. 21 as part of the MLB-wide celebration of Roberto Clemente Day. He won the 2019 Roberto Clemente Award for his numerous community endeavors.The right-hander had six strikeouts, moving into fourth place in Indians history with 1,281. He surpassed Hall of Famers Bob Lemon and Early Wynn, who both had 1,277.“It was an honor to wear No. 21 today for a lot of reasons,” Carrasco said. “Roberto Clemente was great, on and off the field.”Delino DeShields went 3 for 4 with a triple for Cleveland, which fell one game behind the first-place White Sox in the AL Central.Lopez singled three times and Kansas City teammates Whit Merrifield and Olivares had two hits apiece. Olivares has a six-game hitting streak and is batting .385 since joining the Royals in a trade with San Diego.Indians manager Terry Francona, who briefly visited the ballpark Tuesday, missed his 29th game because of season-long gastrointestinal issues that required surgery.“I know he’s feeling better, but I’m not sure how much better,” Alomar said.GOLD GLOVEKansas City’s Bubba Starling made the defensive play of the night in the dugout. Mondesi lost control of his bat while swinging at a pitch in the first, sending it airborne. The bat struck the netting on top of the first-base dugout, and Starling made a one-hand grab to prevent it from striking any teammates.SPECIAL CELEBRATIONAlomar, Lindor, C Roberto Pérez and assistant hitting coach Victor Rodriguez — all natives of Puerto Rico — joined Carrasco in wearing No. 21, along with LHP Brad Hand, the Indians’ 2020 Roberto Clemente Award nominee. Kansas City did not have any active players participate.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: C Salvador Perez (left eye), who has been on the 10-day injured list since Aug. 21, took batting practice Monday at the alternate training site. Perez has been affected by blurry vision.Indians: 3B José Ramírez (left hand bruise) batted second and went 0 for 2 after sitting out Tuesday. Alomar said Ramirez feels no pain when he bats right-handed, but is unable to switch-hit until the swelling subsides.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Brady Singer (1-4, 5.58 ERA) has not won in five road starts this season despite holding opponents to a .232 average. He is 0-2 with 24 strikeouts in 25 2/3 innings away from Kansas City.Indians: RHP Aaron Civale (3-4, 3.72 ERA) is tied with teammate Shane Bieber and Texas’ Lance Lynn for first in the majors with eight starts of at least six innings. Civale’s last home victory was on July 28.

⚾ Duffy pitches Royals to win over Indians

CLEVELAND (AP) — Maikel Franco drove in the go-ahead run with a sacrifice fly in the eighth inning and had an RBI single in the ninth as the Kansas City Royals beat the Cleveland Indians 8-6 Tuesday night to snap a seven-game losing streak.

Whit Merrifield hit a three-run homer and Cam Gallagher had an RBI double for the Royals, who had been outscored 51-18 and only held the lead after one inning in losing their first seven games in September.

“You want those rewards, and I don’t know if I’ve wanted one so bad,” Kansas City manager Mike Matheny said. “Just because they deserve it, the way these guys have been fighting. They’ve been relentless.

“You need days like this to give them that shot of encouragement. Hopefully, this is the start of a whole bunch.”

Adalberto Mondesí led off the eighth with a single off Adam Cimber (0-1) and came around on Franco’s fly to center, putting the Royals up 6-5. Later in the frame, Nicky Lopez was hit by Óliver Pérez’s pitch with the bases loaded, scoring Hunter Dozier.

Franco added a two-out single in the ninth off Adam Plutko to extend Kansas City’s advantage to 8-5. Greg Holland (3-0) worked two perfect innings, striking out three, for the win. Scott Barlow allowed one run in the ninth before earning his second save.

“I feel like we’ve been in a lot of games in the last month,” Holland said. “The work ethic, the patience and all that stuff. The guys haven’t stopped working.”

Carlos Santana, Sandy León and Francisco Lindor each homered for Cleveland, which had won three in a row to move into a tie for first in the American League Central.

Indians rookie Triston McKenzie struck out seven and allowed three hits in five innings, but was lifted after a season-high 92 pitches. The right-hander is 2-0 with a 2.57 ERA through four starts.

“If they need me to throw another nine innings tomorrow, I’d do it because I love baseball, but I understand why I’m on a pitch count,” McKenzie said. “My attitude is to do as much as I can with those 90.”

Royals right-hander Jakob Junis gave up a season-high five runs and all three Cleveland homers in 4 1/3 innings, remaining winless in seven starts since Sept. 4, 2019.

Santana hit a two-run homer in the first and León had a solo shot in the second to stake Cleveland to a 3-0 lead, but Merrifield answered with a three-run blast onto the left-field porch in the third.

“Merrifield is a really, really, really good hitter,” McKenzie said. “I made a mistake and he capitalized on it.”

Lindor put the Indians back in front 5-3 in the bottom of the third with a two-run homer, plating César Hernández.

Kansas City tied the score again in the seventh as Lopez reached on a fielder’s choice that scored Matt Reynolds, then came around on Gallagher’s RBI double.

Cleveland manager Terry Francona missed his 28th game because of season-long gastrointestinal issues that required surgery.

Indians LHP Brad Hand leads the majors with 12 saves in 12 opportunities, including a three-strikeout performance Monday against the Royals. The three-time All-Star failed in five of his final 17 save chances last year while battling a tired arm. “He’s been a real stabilizing force in the back of the bullpen,” team president Chris Antonetti said.

Antonetti said the Indians have had “some preliminary dialogue” with MLB about having players wear No. 14 in honor of Larry Doby. Doby became the first Black to play in the American League when he debuted with Cleveland on July 5, 1947. Jackie Robinson broke the color line on April 15, 1947 with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

Royals: OF Jorge Soler (right oblique strain) was placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to Sept. 6. He owned the third-longest consecutive games streak in the majors at 199 before sitting out Thursday against the White Sox.

Indians: 3B Jose Ramirez (left hand bruise) was out of the lineup and is listed as day-to-day after an MRI did not reveal significant damage. He exited early Monday and has experienced pain since originally being hurt Aug. 15 at Detroit.

Royals: LHP Danny Duffy (2-3, 4.83 ERA) seeks to break a seven-start winless streak in Cleveland. He is 0-6 with a 9.33 ERA at Progressive Field since Sept. 22, 2014.

Indians: RHP Carlos Carrasco (2-3, 3.43 ERA) faces Kansas City for the second time this year. He struck out 10 over six innings, earning the win on July 26 in Cleveland.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Maikel Franco drove in the go-ahead run with a sacrifice fly in the eighth inning and had an RBI single in the ninth as the Kansas City Royals beat the Cleveland Indians 8-6 Tuesday night to snap a seven-game losing streak.Whit Merrifield hit a three-run homer and Cam Gallagher had an RBI double for the Royals, who had been outscored 51-18 and only held the lead after one inning in losing their first seven games in September.“You want those rewards, and I don’t know if I’ve wanted one so bad,” Kansas City manager Mike Matheny said. “Just because they deserve it, the way these guys have been fighting. They’ve been relentless.“You need days like this to give them that shot of encouragement. Hopefully, this is the start of a whole bunch.”Adalberto Mondesí led off the eighth with a single off Adam Cimber (0-1) and came around on Franco’s fly to center, putting the Royals up 6-5. Later in the frame, Nicky Lopez was hit by Óliver Pérez’s pitch with the bases loaded, scoring Hunter Dozier.Franco added a two-out single in the ninth off Adam Plutko to extend Kansas City’s advantage to 8-5. Greg Holland (3-0) worked two perfect innings, striking out three, for the win. Scott Barlow allowed one run in the ninth before earning his second save.“I feel like we’ve been in a lot of games in the last month,” Holland said. “The work ethic, the patience and all that stuff. The guys haven’t stopped working.”Carlos Santana, Sandy León and Francisco Lindor each homered for Cleveland, which had won three in a row to move into a tie for first in the American League Central.Indians rookie Triston McKenzie struck out seven and allowed three hits in five innings, but was lifted after a season-high 92 pitches. The right-hander is 2-0 with a 2.57 ERA through four starts.“If they need me to throw another nine innings tomorrow, I’d do it because I love baseball, but I understand why I’m on a pitch count,” McKenzie said. “My attitude is to do as much as I can with those 90.”Royals right-hander Jakob Junis gave up a season-high five runs and all three Cleveland homers in 4 1/3 innings, remaining winless in seven starts since Sept. 4, 2019.Santana hit a two-run homer in the first and León had a solo shot in the second to stake Cleveland to a 3-0 lead, but Merrifield answered with a three-run blast onto the left-field porch in the third.“Merrifield is a really, really, really good hitter,” McKenzie said. “I made a mistake and he capitalized on it.”Lindor put the Indians back in front 5-3 in the bottom of the third with a two-run homer, plating César Hernández.Kansas City tied the score again in the seventh as Lopez reached on a fielder’s choice that scored Matt Reynolds, then came around on Gallagher’s RBI double.Cleveland manager Terry Francona missed his 28th game because of season-long gastrointestinal issues that required surgery.BACK TO FORMIndians LHP Brad Hand leads the majors with 12 saves in 12 opportunities, including a three-strikeout performance Monday against the Royals. The three-time All-Star failed in five of his final 17 save chances last year while battling a tired arm. “He’s been a real stabilizing force in the back of the bullpen,” team president Chris Antonetti said.DOBY DAYAntonetti said the Indians have had “some preliminary dialogue” with MLB about having players wear No. 14 in honor of Larry Doby. Doby became the first Black to play in the American League when he debuted with Cleveland on July 5, 1947. Jackie Robinson broke the color line on April 15, 1947 with the Brooklyn Dodgers.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: OF Jorge Soler (right oblique strain) was placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to Sept. 6. He owned the third-longest consecutive games streak in the majors at 199 before sitting out Thursday against the White Sox.Indians: 3B Jose Ramirez (left hand bruise) was out of the lineup and is listed as day-to-day after an MRI did not reveal significant damage. He exited early Monday and has experienced pain since originally being hurt Aug. 15 at Detroit.UP NEXT:Royals: LHP Danny Duffy (2-3, 4.83 ERA) seeks to break a seven-start winless streak in Cleveland. He is 0-6 with a 9.33 ERA at Progressive Field since Sept. 22, 2014.Indians: RHP Carlos Carrasco (2-3, 3.43 ERA) faces Kansas City for the second time this year. He struck out 10 over six innings, earning the win on July 26 in Cleveland.

⚾ Royals snap seven-game losing skid, beat Indians

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State athletics officials received word late Tuesday night that the Wildcats’ season opener this Saturday against Arkansas State will be moved to an 11 a.m., kick and will be televised nationally on FOX.

The Wildcats and Red Wolves are taking over the time and TV slot originally occupied by the Louisiana Tech at Baylor game, which was postponed.

Fans attending K-State’s season opener against the Red Wolves on Saturday are reminded of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2020/8/17/k-state-approved-for-reduced-capacity-during-2020-football-season.aspx" target="_blank">new guidelines that will be in place for the 2020 season</a>, which includes mandatory face coverings, no tailgating, no re-entry, alcohols sales for purchase in the general seating sections and additional safety measures.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State athletics officials received word late Tuesday night that the Wildcats’ season opener this Saturday against Arkansas State will be moved to an 11 a.m., kick and will be televised nationally on FOX.The Wildcats and Red Wolves are taking over the time and TV slot originally occupied by the Louisiana Tech at Baylor game, which was postponed.Fans attending K-State’s season opener against the Red Wolves on Saturday are reminded of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2020/8/17/k-state-approved-for-reduced-capacity-during-2020-football-season.aspx" target="_blank">new guidelines that will be in place for the 2020 season</a>, which includes mandatory face coverings, no tailgating, no re-entry, alcohols sales for purchase in the general seating sections and additional safety measures.– k-statesports.com –

🏈 K-State’s season opener moved to 11 a.m., on FOX

Stockton Triangular Stockton&nbsp; 14&nbsp; 24 Hoxie&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 25&nbsp; 26

Hoxie&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12&nbsp; &nbsp;15 Smith Center&nbsp; 25&nbsp; 25

Stockton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;7&nbsp; &nbsp; 8 Smith Center&nbsp; 25&nbsp; 25

Stockton Triangular Stockton&nbsp; 14&nbsp; 24 Hoxie&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 25&nbsp; 26Hoxie&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12&nbsp; &nbsp;15 Smith Center&nbsp; 25&nbsp; 25Stockton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;7&nbsp; &nbsp; 8 Smith Center&nbsp; 25&nbsp; 25

🏐 Tuesday area volleyball results

SALINA - The Hays High girls' golf team placed three in the top-10 and finished runner-up at the Salina Central Invitational on a cold, rainy and windy day at the Salina Municipal Golf Course.

The Indians shot a 363 which was 11 shots behind first place Manhattan.

Taleia McCrae led the Indians with an 83 and finished second, one shot behind Zoe Norton of Salina South.

Katie Dinkel placed eighth with an 88 and Sophia Garrison was 10th with a 93.

TEAM RESULTS 1. Manhattan - 352 2. Hays - 363 3. Salina South - 388 4. Great Bend - 406 5. Newton - 414 6. Emporia - 420 7. Concordia - 429 8. Salina Central - 429 9. Clay Center - 454 10. Hutchinson - 471 11. Junction City (3) - 399

TOP-10 MEDALISTS 1. Zoe Norton, Salina South - 82 2. Taleia McCrae, Hays - 83 T2. Rhys Phipps, Manhattan - 83 T2. Andi Siebert, Manhattan - 83 5. Abby Donovan, Concordia - 84 6. Nine Frees, Salina South - 86 7. Avary Eckert, Emporia - 87 8. Katie Dinkel, Hays - 88 T8. Emily Yerman, Manhattan - 88 10. Sophia Garrision, Hays - 93

SALINA - The Hays High girls' golf team placed three in the top-10 and finished runner-up at the Salina Central Invitational on a cold, rainy and windy day at the Salina Municipal Golf Course.The Indians shot a 363 which was 11 shots behind first place Manhattan.Taleia McCrae led the Indians with an 83 and finished second, one shot behind Zoe Norton of Salina South.Katie Dinkel placed eighth with an 88 and Sophia Garrison was 10th with a 93.TEAM RESULTS 1. Manhattan - 352 2. Hays - 363 3. Salina South - 388 4. Great Bend - 406 5. Newton - 414 6. Emporia - 420 7. Concordia - 429 8. Salina Central - 429 9. Clay Center - 454 10. Hutchinson - 471 11. Junction City (3) - 399TOP-10 MEDALISTS 1. Zoe Norton, Salina South - 82 2. Taleia McCrae, Hays - 83 T2. Rhys Phipps, Manhattan - 83 T2. Andi Siebert, Manhattan - 83 5. Abby Donovan, Concordia - 84 6. Nine Frees, Salina South - 86 7. Avary Eckert, Emporia - 87 8. Katie Dinkel, Hays - 88 T8. Emily Yerman, Manhattan - 88 10. Sophia Garrision, Hays - 93

🏌️‍♀️ HHS finishes runner-up at Salina Central Invite

ELLIS - The TMP-Marian volleyball team bounced back from their two losses in Abilene last week with two wins at the Ellis triangular Tuesday.

The Monarchs swept Norton 25-8, 25-22 then beat the host Railers 25-14, 25-17.

The Monarchs improve to 10-2 and 4-0 in the Mid Continent League.

ELLIS - The TMP-Marian volleyball team bounced back from their two losses in Abilene last week with two wins at the Ellis triangular Tuesday.The Monarchs swept Norton 25-8, 25-22 then beat the host Railers 25-14, 25-17.The Monarchs improve to 10-2 and 4-0 in the Mid Continent League.

🏐 TMP-Marian wins twice in Ellis

NICKERSON - After starting their season with a runner-up finish at their own tournament, the Hays High volleyball team drops a pair of matches at the Nickerson triangular Tuesday.

The Indians fall to seventh-ranked Panthers 16-25, 18-25 then lose to Smoky Valley 19-25, 12-25.

NICKERSON - After starting their season with a runner-up finish at their own tournament, the Hays High volleyball team drops a pair of matches at the Nickerson triangular Tuesday.The Indians fall to seventh-ranked Panthers 16-25, 18-25 then lose to Smoky Valley 19-25, 12-25.

🏐 HHS loses twice in Nickerson

GREAT BEND - The Hays High boys soccer team starts their season 0-2 after a 4-1 loss in Great Bend on a cold rainy day Tuesday.

GREAT BEND - The Hays High boys soccer team starts their season 0-2 after a 4-1 loss in Great Bend on a cold rainy day Tuesday.The JV finished in a 1-1 tie.

⚽ HHS falls to Great Bend

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — A person with knowledge of the situation tells The Associated Press the Denver Broncos fear star linebacker Von Miller suffered a season-ending ankle injury toward the end of practice Tuesday.

The person, speaking on condition of anonymity because the team hadn’t addressed Miller’s injury, said the team was awaiting results of an MRI on Miller.

The practice took place indoors because of a snowstorm that struck the Rocky Mountains after a series of upper-90s and 100-degree days.

Miller appeared primed for a big season after adding several pounds of muscle in the offseason and rededicating himself. Last month, he said he was inspired by Kobe Bryant’s eulogy and Michael Jordan’s documentary.

Miller’s pass rushing partner, Bradley Chubb, has hit some rough patches in his return from a torn ACL, and coach Vic Fangio suggested recently that Chubb would take some time to get back to 100%.

The Broncos open the season Monday night against Tennessee.

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — A person with knowledge of the situation tells The Associated Press the Denver Broncos fear star linebacker Von Miller suffered a season-ending ankle injury toward the end of practice Tuesday.The person, speaking on condition of anonymity because the team hadn’t addressed Miller’s injury, said the team was awaiting results of an MRI on Miller.The practice took place indoors because of a snowstorm that struck the Rocky Mountains after a series of upper-90s and 100-degree days.Miller appeared primed for a big season after adding several pounds of muscle in the offseason and rededicating himself. Last month, he said he was inspired by Kobe Bryant’s eulogy and Michael Jordan’s documentary.Miller’s pass rushing partner, Bradley Chubb, has hit some rough patches in his return from a torn ACL, and coach Vic Fangio suggested recently that Chubb would take some time to get back to 100%.The Broncos open the season Monday night against Tennessee.

🏈 Broncos star Miller sustains serious ankle injury

CLEVELAND (AP) — Zach Plesac won his second straight start since returning to the Cleveland Indians’ rotation after a demotion for breaking team COVID-19 protocols, a 5-2 victory over Kansas City on Monday night that extended the Royals’ losing streak to a season-high seven straight.

Plesac (3-1) gave up a hit in each of the first seven innings, including Adalberto Modesi’s 458-foot homer in the seventh, but came up with big pitches over seven innings.

Brad Hand struck out the side in the ninth for his 12th save in as many tries.

Tyler Naquin had two RBIs for the Indians against Brad Keller (3-2), who hung around until the seventh.

Cleveland is 21-2 when scoring at least three runs, a trend All-Star Francisco Lindor dismissed before the game.

“I’m not a stat guy,” he said. “I could care less about stats. As long as I go win and I do my thing to help the team win that day, I’ll be fine.”

Lindor got two hits and scored once, but also had a baserunning gaffe when he got called out on an appeal play in the sixth for failing to touch second.

Cleveland moved into a tie for first in the AL Central with the idle Chicago White Sox.

Kansas City made two errors and Mondesi provided the only real highlight with the longest homer of his career, a shot that cleared the lower seats in right.

Cleveland scored twice in the second off Keller, who limited the Indians just one run over 6 1/3 innings on Aug. 31.

Royals manager Mike Matheny played and managed in St. Louis, where he got to know Cardinals outfielder Lou Brock. The Hall of Famer died Sunday at 81.

“I had enough time to spend with him that I consider Lou Brock a friend,” Matheny said. “How amazing of a statement is that?”

Brock’s speed made him one of baseball’s most dangerous players. He stole at least 50 bases in 12 consecutive seasons and finished with 938. He swiped 118 bases in 1974. The Royals had 117 last season.

Lindor is grateful that Major League Baseball is allowing Puerto Rican players to wear No. 21 as a tribute to Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente on Wednesday.

A 15-time All-Star, Clemente is a hero in his native country as much for his baseball achievements as humanitarian work. He died in a 1972 plane crash bringing goods to Nicaragua following an earthquake.

“He represented all of us, and now it’s our turn to represent him,” Lindor said. “His name and his legacy will never die.”

Royals: C Salvador Pérez could be back by the weekend after being sidelined with blurred vision in his left eye. Matheny said Pérez took at-bats Sunday at the team’s alternate training site.

Indians: 3B José Ramírez left in the seventh with discomfort in his left thumb. He’s been battling the issue for a few weeks.

Indians rookie RHP Triston McKenzie (2-0) makes his fourth start and will face Royals RHP Jacob Junis (0-1). McKenzie blanked Kansas City on three hits over six innings last week.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Zach Plesac won his second straight start since returning to the Cleveland Indians’ rotation after a demotion for breaking team COVID-19 protocols, a 5-2 victory over Kansas City on Monday night that extended the Royals’ losing streak to a season-high seven straight.Plesac (3-1) gave up a hit in each of the first seven innings, including Adalberto Modesi’s 458-foot homer in the seventh, but came up with big pitches over seven innings.Brad Hand struck out the side in the ninth for his 12th save in as many tries.Tyler Naquin had two RBIs for the Indians against Brad Keller (3-2), who hung around until the seventh.Cleveland is 21-2 when scoring at least three runs, a trend All-Star Francisco Lindor dismissed before the game.“I’m not a stat guy,” he said. “I could care less about stats. As long as I go win and I do my thing to help the team win that day, I’ll be fine.”Lindor got two hits and scored once, but also had a baserunning gaffe when he got called out on an appeal play in the sixth for failing to touch second.Cleveland moved into a tie for first in the AL Central with the idle Chicago White Sox.Kansas City made two errors and Mondesi provided the only real highlight with the longest homer of his career, a shot that cleared the lower seats in right.Cleveland scored twice in the second off Keller, who limited the Indians just one run over 6 1/3 innings on Aug. 31.BROCK REMEMBEREDRoyals manager Mike Matheny played and managed in St. Louis, where he got to know Cardinals outfielder Lou Brock. The Hall of Famer died Sunday at 81.“I had enough time to spend with him that I consider Lou Brock a friend,” Matheny said. “How amazing of a statement is that?”Brock’s speed made him one of baseball’s most dangerous players. He stole at least 50 bases in 12 consecutive seasons and finished with 938. He swiped 118 bases in 1974. The Royals had 117 last season.“A lost art,” Matheny said.HONORING CLEMENTELindor is grateful that Major League Baseball is allowing Puerto Rican players to wear No. 21 as a tribute to Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente on Wednesday.A 15-time All-Star, Clemente is a hero in his native country as much for his baseball achievements as humanitarian work. He died in a 1972 plane crash bringing goods to Nicaragua following an earthquake.“He represented all of us, and now it’s our turn to represent him,” Lindor said. “His name and his legacy will never die.”TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: C Salvador Pérez could be back by the weekend after being sidelined with blurred vision in his left eye. Matheny said Pérez took at-bats Sunday at the team’s alternate training site.Indians: 3B José Ramírez left in the seventh with discomfort in his left thumb. He’s been battling the issue for a few weeks.UP NEXTIndians rookie RHP Triston McKenzie (2-0) makes his fourth start and will face Royals RHP Jacob Junis (0-1). McKenzie blanked Kansas City on three hits over six innings last week.

⚾ Plesac solid for 7, Indians hand Royals seventh loss in row

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Edwin Encarnación hit a three-run homer, Dallas Keuchel threw five scoreless innings and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 8-2 on Sunday to complete a four-game sweep.

Keuchel (6-2) left the game with lower back stiffness after throwing a few warmup pitches before the sixth inning. He threw 49 pitches, allowed two hits and struck out two.

“He irritated it a little bit,” White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. “It didn’t make sense to keep him going. So we had to make the move there. Right now he’s day to day. He’s been managing it the whole season.”

The AL Central-leading White Sox went ahead 5-0 in the seventh inning against reliever Josh Staumont. Encarnación hit a 448-foot blast into the second deck of the fountains beyond the wall in left-center to score Yasmani Grandal and Jose Abreu, who had singled to extend his hitting streak to 20 games.

“He continues to chip away and that’s what he does,” Renteria said of Encarnación. “He got a pitch he could handle and put it in the water. He’s a professional. I don’t have to worry about Edwin. He’s going to continue to do what he does.”

Royals starter Matt Harvey (0-3) was yanked after throwing 40 pitches. He went 2 1/3 innings, allowing four hits and one run.

“I thought Matt did what we needed him to do,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said.

Tim Anderson had three hits for the White Sox.

Yolmer Sanchez, making his second start of the season, led off the third inning with a double to left-center and scored on a single by Grandal.

“It feels really good. When you have the opportunity when the guys need a day off, you have to do your best,” Sanchez said. “I don’t try to do too much. I think I had a really good plan today in the box.”

With two outs in the sixth, Luis Robert walked and stole second, and Nomar Mazara doubled to the gap in left-center to put the White Sox ahead 2-0.

Edward Olivares hit his first home run as a Royal, a two-run blast into the left-field bullpen off Steve Cishek that got Kansas City within 5-2 in the seventh.

“Go out there and compete and that’s my mindset,” Olivares said.

Grandal, Encarnación and Abreu drove in runs in the eighth for Chicago.

Royals: RHP Carlos Hernandez left the game with a stomach contusion after he was struck by Danny Mendick’s line drive.

White Sox: After a day off Monday, Chicago begins a two-game series at Pittsburgh on Tuesday.

Royals: Begin a four-game series at Cleveland on Monday. RHP Brad Keller (3-1, 1.93 ERA) will face RHP Zach Plesac (2-1, 1.33), who allowed one run in six innings against the Royals in his last start.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Edwin Encarnación hit a three-run homer, Dallas Keuchel threw five scoreless innings and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 8-2 on Sunday to complete a four-game sweep.Keuchel (6-2) left the game with lower back stiffness after throwing a few warmup pitches before the sixth inning. He threw 49 pitches, allowed two hits and struck out two.“He irritated it a little bit,” White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. “It didn’t make sense to keep him going. So we had to make the move there. Right now he’s day to day. He’s been managing it the whole season.”The AL Central-leading White Sox went ahead 5-0 in the seventh inning against reliever Josh Staumont. Encarnación hit a 448-foot blast into the second deck of the fountains beyond the wall in left-center to score Yasmani Grandal and Jose Abreu, who had singled to extend his hitting streak to 20 games.“He continues to chip away and that’s what he does,” Renteria said of Encarnación. “He got a pitch he could handle and put it in the water. He’s a professional. I don’t have to worry about Edwin. He’s going to continue to do what he does.”Royals starter Matt Harvey (0-3) was yanked after throwing 40 pitches. He went 2 1/3 innings, allowing four hits and one run.“I thought Matt did what we needed him to do,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said.Tim Anderson had three hits for the White Sox.Yolmer Sanchez, making his second start of the season, led off the third inning with a double to left-center and scored on a single by Grandal.“It feels really good. When you have the opportunity when the guys need a day off, you have to do your best,” Sanchez said. “I don’t try to do too much. I think I had a really good plan today in the box.”With two outs in the sixth, Luis Robert walked and stole second, and Nomar Mazara doubled to the gap in left-center to put the White Sox ahead 2-0.Edward Olivares hit his first home run as a Royal, a two-run blast into the left-field bullpen off Steve Cishek that got Kansas City within 5-2 in the seventh.“Go out there and compete and that’s my mindset,” Olivares said.Grandal, Encarnación and Abreu drove in runs in the eighth for Chicago.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: RHP Carlos Hernandez left the game with a stomach contusion after he was struck by Danny Mendick’s line drive.UP NEXTWhite Sox: After a day off Monday, Chicago begins a two-game series at Pittsburgh on Tuesday.Royals: Begin a four-game series at Cleveland on Monday. RHP Brad Keller (3-1, 1.93 ERA) will face RHP Zach Plesac (2-1, 1.33), who allowed one run in six innings against the Royals in his last start.

⚾ Encarnación homers, White Sox finish 4-game sweep of Royals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — José Abreu hit his 13th home run of the season in the first inning, Yasmani Grandal added a two-run shot, and the Chicago White Sox defeated the Kansas City Royals 5-3 Saturday night behind ace Lucas Giolito.

Abreu leads the majors with 40 RBIs in 40 games and extended his hitting streak to 19 games. His 425-foot, two-run homer pushed him past Baltimore’s Anthony Santander for the longest streak this season.

“He’s our heart and soul,” Giolito said. “It seems like he’s getting that clutch hit almost every single game. Runners in scoring position, two outs, he gets the job done. What he provides for us on a daily basis, he does it all.”

Giolito (4-2) allowed three runs on five hits in six-plus innings. He struck out nine, fanning five of the last seven batters he faced, and walked none. Alex Colome earned his ninth save in 10 tries.

“I really wanted to get through the seventh, or at least get one of those first two guys that I faced,” Giolito said. “Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. The bullpen picked me up.

“It’s kind of what we do. In a close game like that, if one side falls short, the other side is there to pick them up. That’s what the team was able to do in spite of me not being able to get through seven.”

The White Sox (25-15) are now 8-1 against the Royals this season.

Kris Bubic (0-5) took the loss, allowing five runs, two of them earned.

“Great outing. You take that fifth away, or we make a play that didn’t get made in the fifth and that’s a completely different ballgame,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “But still, he gets through that first and really shows no chink in his armor. He just got better as he went.”

An error by Maikel Franco in the top of the fifth led to three unearned runs. Bubic pitched a career-high seven innings and only allowed four hits, with four strikeouts and one walk.

The Royals drew within 2-1 on Bubba Starling’s leadoff home run in the third, his first homer since Sept. 11, 2019 in Chicago against the White Sox.

Tim Anderson’s RBI single drove in James McCann in the fifth, and Grandal followed with his homer.

Franco doubled home Ryan O’Hearn in the seventh to draw the Royals to within 5-2 and send Giolito to the clubhouse. Adalberto Mondesi’s RBI single drove in Franco.

White Sox: Placed LHP Jace Fry on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to Sept. 3, with back spasms.

Royals: DH Jorge Soler left the game after one at-bat in which he struck out swinging. The 2019 American League home run champion was removed with right oblique soreness. He came out of the game Wednesday and did not play Thursday with an oblique irritation. He was 0 for 5 Friday night. “I could see ... something wasn’t right. Trainer made decision to take him out,” Matheny said.

The White Sox purchased the contract of RHP Alex McRae from the Schaumburg training facility and transferred LHP Aaron Bummer to the 45-day injured list. Manager Rick Renteria said the move with Bummer did not signify a delay in his recovery. “He’s on the same throwing program. He’s playing catch.”

The White Sox will send LHP Dallas Keuchel (5-2, 2.70 ERA) to the mound. He faced the Royals July 31 when he allowed two runs on seven hits in 5 1/3 innings. He’s 5-1 with a 2.67 ERA in 10 career starts against the Royals.

The Royals will send RHP Matt Harvey (0-2, 14.09 ERA) out for his fourth start. He has yet to get past the third inning in any of his three starts with Kansas City. He allowed two hits in 2/3 inning in his last appearance, against the White Sox, but didn’t yield a run. He’s 1-0 with a 0.00 ERA (16 2/3 innings) in three appearances (two starts) against the White Sox in his career.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — José Abreu hit his 13th home run of the season in the first inning, Yasmani Grandal added a two-run shot, and the Chicago White Sox defeated the Kansas City Royals 5-3 Saturday night behind ace Lucas Giolito.Abreu leads the majors with 40 RBIs in 40 games and extended his hitting streak to 19 games. His 425-foot, two-run homer pushed him past Baltimore’s Anthony Santander for the longest streak this season.“He’s our heart and soul,” Giolito said. “It seems like he’s getting that clutch hit almost every single game. Runners in scoring position, two outs, he gets the job done. What he provides for us on a daily basis, he does it all.”Giolito (4-2) allowed three runs on five hits in six-plus innings. He struck out nine, fanning five of the last seven batters he faced, and walked none. Alex Colome earned his ninth save in 10 tries.“I really wanted to get through the seventh, or at least get one of those first two guys that I faced,” Giolito said. “Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. The bullpen picked me up.“It’s kind of what we do. In a close game like that, if one side falls short, the other side is there to pick them up. That’s what the team was able to do in spite of me not being able to get through seven.”The White Sox (25-15) are now 8-1 against the Royals this season.Kris Bubic (0-5) took the loss, allowing five runs, two of them earned.“Great outing. You take that fifth away, or we make a play that didn’t get made in the fifth and that’s a completely different ballgame,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “But still, he gets through that first and really shows no chink in his armor. He just got better as he went.”An error by Maikel Franco in the top of the fifth led to three unearned runs. Bubic pitched a career-high seven innings and only allowed four hits, with four strikeouts and one walk.The Royals drew within 2-1 on Bubba Starling’s leadoff home run in the third, his first homer since Sept. 11, 2019 in Chicago against the White Sox.Tim Anderson’s RBI single drove in James McCann in the fifth, and Grandal followed with his homer.Franco doubled home Ryan O’Hearn in the seventh to draw the Royals to within 5-2 and send Giolito to the clubhouse. Adalberto Mondesi’s RBI single drove in Franco.TRAINER’S ROOMWhite Sox: Placed LHP Jace Fry on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to Sept. 3, with back spasms.Royals: DH Jorge Soler left the game after one at-bat in which he struck out swinging. The 2019 American League home run champion was removed with right oblique soreness. He came out of the game Wednesday and did not play Thursday with an oblique irritation. He was 0 for 5 Friday night. “I could see ... something wasn’t right. Trainer made decision to take him out,” Matheny said.ROSTER MOVESThe White Sox purchased the contract of RHP Alex McRae from the Schaumburg training facility and transferred LHP Aaron Bummer to the 45-day injured list. Manager Rick Renteria said the move with Bummer did not signify a delay in his recovery. “He’s on the same throwing program. He’s playing catch.”UP NEXTThe White Sox will send LHP Dallas Keuchel (5-2, 2.70 ERA) to the mound. He faced the Royals July 31 when he allowed two runs on seven hits in 5 1/3 innings. He’s 5-1 with a 2.67 ERA in 10 career starts against the Royals.The Royals will send RHP Matt Harvey (0-2, 14.09 ERA) out for his fourth start. He has yet to get past the third inning in any of his three starts with Kansas City. He allowed two hits in 2/3 inning in his last appearance, against the White Sox, but didn’t yield a run. He’s 1-0 with a 0.00 ERA (16 2/3 innings) in three appearances (two starts) against the White Sox in his career.

⚾ White Sox beat Royals behind Abreu, Giolito

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs are content to defend their Super Bowl title largely with the team that won it.

After signing a handful of veteran free agents during an offseason unlike any other, the Chiefs waived the majority of them Saturday as they trimmed down to 53 players for the start of the regular season. Among the notable names were running back DeAndre Washington, who was signed from Oakland, and former Miami safety Adrian Colbert.

Even the veterans could be back, though. The coronavirus pandemic has altered the rules for the practice squad, allowing teams to retain 16 players and up to six with accrued seasons to help deal with the potential of an outbreak.

“We tell them at the beginning, ‘Listen, not everybody is going to make our football team,’” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said, ”‘but make it as hard as you possibly can on us to make that decision. And don’t count the number in the line. Just go play.’”

Most of the players waived as the Chiefs trimmed from their 80-man camp roster ahead of their opener Thursday night against Houston were inexpensive fliers and undrafted free agents. That’s because they spent the majority of the offseason — and the majority of their salary cap — taking care of the core group that won their first title in 50 years.

The Chiefs gave a 10-year contract extension to quarterback Patrick Mahomes that could ultimately pay him a half-billion dollars, then followed it with long-term deals for Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones and star tight end Travis Kelce.

The Chiefs waived quarterbacks Matt Moore and Jordan Ta’amu, which means they are content having just Chad Henne backing up Mahomes for Week 1. Running back Elijah McGuire lost out on a backup job to Darrel Williams, another member of the Super Bowl team, while wide receivers Jody Fortson, Maurice Ffrench, Gehrig Dieter, Justice Shelton-Mosley and Kalija Lipscomb were cut loose in favor of keeping special teams ace Marcus Kemp.

Offensive linemen Jackson Barton, Ryan Hunter, Darryl Williams and Greg Senat were released with tight end Dan Helm.

The biggest name let go on defense was Breeland Speaks, the Chiefs’ second-round pick in 2018, who missed last season to an injury. Also waived were defensive lineman Tim Ward, Braxton Hoyett and Devaroe Lawrence; linebackers Omari Cobb and Darius Harris; and defensive backs Rodney Clemons, Lavert Hill and Chris Lammons.

Offensive lineman Yasir Durant and defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton made the team as undrafted rookies.

Another offensive lineman, Martinas Rankin, will start the season on the PUP list as he recovers from knee surgery.

Still, the minimal roster turnover means the Chiefs could have an advantage early in the season. Most of the team was already familiar with the playbook before the pandemic scuttled offseason workouts and all four preseason games, which are typically crucial for young and rebuilding teams as they try to polish off their rosters.

“Normally you go through the cuts and if it’s a veteran player you release, you meet with him, and the young guys, you give them encouragement to move on,” Reid said. “We’re going to support the guys. If they’ve made it this far with us, we’re going to support them. If somebody calls us about them, we want them to be successful. If you’re with us, you’re with us, and if we can’t keep you, we want you to make it somewhere else. That’s this year or any year.”

The Chiefs were able to keep a couple extra players because cornerback Bashaud Breeland, who is suspended for the first four games, and defensive tackle Mike Pennel, who must sit out the first two, don’t count against their 53. They also had a trio of players opt out in right guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, running back Damien Williams and rookie Lucas Niang.

Now, the frenzy will begin as teams begin to claim players that were waived, even though they may have to rely on game film from college and the scouting combine because there were no preseason games to scout.

“(General manager) Brett Veach has a pretty good feel with his guys for who is out there,” Reid said, “and players he has graded previously, whether it’s college or pro. So he’s on top of all that. I know they’re working like crazy right now.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs are content to defend their Super Bowl title largely with the team that won it.After signing a handful of veteran free agents during an offseason unlike any other, the Chiefs waived the majority of them Saturday as they trimmed down to 53 players for the start of the regular season. Among the notable names were running back DeAndre Washington, who was signed from Oakland, and former Miami safety Adrian Colbert.Even the veterans could be back, though. The coronavirus pandemic has altered the rules for the practice squad, allowing teams to retain 16 players and up to six with accrued seasons to help deal with the potential of an outbreak.“We tell them at the beginning, ‘Listen, not everybody is going to make our football team,’” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said, ”‘but make it as hard as you possibly can on us to make that decision. And don’t count the number in the line. Just go play.’”Most of the players waived as the Chiefs trimmed from their 80-man camp roster ahead of their opener Thursday night against Houston were inexpensive fliers and undrafted free agents. That’s because they spent the majority of the offseason — and the majority of their salary cap — taking care of the core group that won their first title in 50 years.The Chiefs gave a 10-year contract extension to quarterback Patrick Mahomes that could ultimately pay him a half-billion dollars, then followed it with long-term deals for Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones and star tight end Travis Kelce.The Chiefs waived quarterbacks Matt Moore and Jordan Ta’amu, which means they are content having just Chad Henne backing up Mahomes for Week 1. Running back Elijah McGuire lost out on a backup job to Darrel Williams, another member of the Super Bowl team, while wide receivers Jody Fortson, Maurice Ffrench, Gehrig Dieter, Justice Shelton-Mosley and Kalija Lipscomb were cut loose in favor of keeping special teams ace Marcus Kemp.Offensive linemen Jackson Barton, Ryan Hunter, Darryl Williams and Greg Senat were released with tight end Dan Helm.The biggest name let go on defense was Breeland Speaks, the Chiefs’ second-round pick in 2018, who missed last season to an injury. Also waived were defensive lineman Tim Ward, Braxton Hoyett and Devaroe Lawrence; linebackers Omari Cobb and Darius Harris; and defensive backs Rodney Clemons, Lavert Hill and Chris Lammons.Offensive lineman Yasir Durant and defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton made the team as undrafted rookies.Another offensive lineman, Martinas Rankin, will start the season on the PUP list as he recovers from knee surgery.Still, the minimal roster turnover means the Chiefs could have an advantage early in the season. Most of the team was already familiar with the playbook before the pandemic scuttled offseason workouts and all four preseason games, which are typically crucial for young and rebuilding teams as they try to polish off their rosters.“Normally you go through the cuts and if it’s a veteran player you release, you meet with him, and the young guys, you give them encouragement to move on,” Reid said. “We’re going to support the guys. If they’ve made it this far with us, we’re going to support them. If somebody calls us about them, we want them to be successful. If you’re with us, you’re with us, and if we can’t keep you, we want you to make it somewhere else. That’s this year or any year.”The Chiefs were able to keep a couple extra players because cornerback Bashaud Breeland, who is suspended for the first four games, and defensive tackle Mike Pennel, who must sit out the first two, don’t count against their 53. They also had a trio of players opt out in right guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, running back Damien Williams and rookie Lucas Niang.Now, the frenzy will begin as teams begin to claim players that were waived, even though they may have to rely on game film from college and the scouting combine because there were no preseason games to scout.“(General manager) Brett Veach has a pretty good feel with his guys for who is out there,” Reid said, “and players he has graded previously, whether it’s college or pro. So he’s on top of all that. I know they’re working like crazy right now.”

Chiefs keep most of Super Bowl team intact on cut-down day

Click <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">here</a> to listen to listen to our rebroadcast of the Tigers game vs. No. 18 Central Missouri from August 30, 2018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599050529136.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">here</a> to listen to listen to our rebroadcast of the Tigers game vs. No. 18 Central Missouri from August 30, 2018.The rebroadcast begins at 2 p.m.

🏈 Listen to FHSU Football Replay

HAYS - Oakley's Ethan Abell rushed for more than 220 yards and three second-half touchdowns as the Plainsmen beat the TMP-Marian Monarchs 25-13 to open the season.

The Monarchs forced Oakley into a three-and-out to open the game and scored their first points of the 2020 season on their first offensive possession. After six straight running plays the Monarchs went to the air as quarterback Kade Harris found Jace Wentling for the 39-yard touchdown pass. Wentling missed the extra point and TMP lead 6-0. Oakley answered though as they put together an 11-play drive that covered more than six minutes that was capped off a by a five-yard Hunter Scheck touchdown. With the extra point Oakley lead 7-6 and that took that lead into the halftime break. TMP retook the lead midway through the third quarter on a Bryce Seib four-yard touchdown run that gave TMP a 13-7 lead. That would be the last lead TMP would enjoy.

HAYS - Oakley's Ethan Abell rushed for more than 220 yards and three second-half touchdowns as the Plainsmen beat the TMP-Marian Monarchs 25-13 to open the season. TMP coach Jay Harris<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/888049846&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/09-04-20-tmp-coach-int" title="09-04-20 TMP Coach Jays Harris" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">09-04-20 TMP Coach Jays Harris</a></div></div>Game Highlights<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/888049597&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/09-04-20-tmp-highlights" title="09-04-20 Tmp Highlights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">09-04-20 Tmp Highlights</a></div></div>The Monarchs forced Oakley into a three-and-out to open the game and scored their first points of the 2020 season on their first offensive possession. After six straight running plays the Monarchs went to the air as quarterback Kade Harris found Jace Wentling for the 39-yard touchdown pass. Wentling missed the extra point and TMP lead 6-0. Oakley answered though as they put together an 11-play drive that covered more than six minutes that was capped off a by a five-yard Hunter Scheck touchdown. With the extra point Oakley lead 7-6 and that took that lead into the halftime break. TMP retook the lead midway through the third quarter on a Bryce Seib four-yard touchdown run that gave TMP a 13-7 lead. That would be the last lead TMP would enjoy.Oakley scored 18 straight points in the fourth quarter scoring on Abell touchdown runs of 7, 10 and 75 yards.Abell finished with a game-high 227 yards on 20 carries. He also added 52 yards receiving. Oakley finished with 446 total yards.TMP's Kade Harris rushed for 110 yards and Bryce Seib added 62 on the ground.TMP drops to 0-1 and will host Russell next Friday in Hays.

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