CHICAGO (AP) — Cubs overcame another shaky outing by closer Craig Kimbrel to beat the Kansas City Royals 5-4 Tuesday night for their fifth straight win.

Jason Heyward, Jason Kipnis and Willson Contreras homered and the Chicago Cubs overcame another shaky outing by closer Craig Kimbrel to beat the Kansas City Royals 5-4 for their fifth straight win. 

Kimbrel took over to begin the ninth inning with a 5-2 lead, but struggled again and allowed two runs and two hits while getting only one out. 

Kyle Ryan closed it out for his first save, getting Bubba Starling to ground out with a runner on third to end it.

CHICAGO (AP) — Cubs overcame another shaky outing by closer Craig Kimbrel to beat the Kansas City Royals 5-4 Tuesday night for their fifth straight win.Jason Heyward, Jason Kipnis and Willson Contreras homered and the Chicago Cubs overcame another shaky outing by closer Craig Kimbrel to beat the Kansas City Royals 5-4 for their fifth straight win. Kimbrel took over to begin the ninth inning with a 5-2 lead, but struggled again and allowed two runs and two hits while getting only one out. Kyle Ryan closed it out for his first save, getting Bubba Starling to ground out with a runner on third to end it.

Kimbrel shaky again, Cubs hold off Royals for 5th win in row

HUTCHINSON – The Hays Larks overcame four errors and 16
stranded base runners to beat the Lonestar (TX) Baseball Club 5-3 late Tuesday
and early Wednesday at Hobart-Detter Field and advance to Thursday’s winner’s
bracket semifinals at the 86th NBC World Series.

The Larks (22-8) trailed 2-0 after four innings but scored
two in the top of the fifth to tie then taook the lead with a run in the sixth.
After Lonestar (19-3) scored a run in the bottom of the seventh, the Larks
answered with two unearned runs in the eighth.

Carlos Tavera struck out 11 in six innings for the Larks.
The UT-Arlington product who played for Hays in 2018 then again in last year’s
NBC World Series, allowed two runs (one earned) on three hits. Trevor Munsch
got a big strikeout with two on in the eighth to preserve the two-run lead and
pick up the win. Jacob Ensz worked a 1-2-3 ninth for his second save.

Cameron Pehrson’s bloop single to center scored Matt
Cavanagh to cut the lead to 2-1 in the fifth. Brennen van Breusegen’s infield single
scored Wyatt Divis with the tying run.

Cruz Aranda led off the sixth with a triple to left then
scored on a wild pitch to give the Larks a 3-2 lead which they would hold until
bottom of the seventh when LBC scored when Pehrson couldn’t handle a throw from
catcher Max McGuire on a steal attempt allowing Seth Stephenson to score.

The Larks would take the lead for good in the top of the eighth.
Matt Cavanagh opened the inning with an infield single then advanced to second
on a Wyatt Divis walk. Cameron Pehrson then reached safely on a bunt to lead
the bases. After back-to-back strikeouts by Garrett McGowan and van Breusegen, Max
McGuire grounded to third but the throw was dropped by the first baseman
allowing Cavanagh to score the go-ahead run. Cruz Aranda then knocked in the
second run with an infield single that deflected off the glove of the third
baseman.

The Larks get an off-day Wednesday. They will play the
Cheney Diamond Dawgs at a yet to be determined time Thursday at Eck Stadium.

Tuesday’s NBC World Series results… 
Kansas City All-Stars 11, Houston MVP Prospects 10 (Houston eliminated) 
Liberal BJ’s 2, Hutchinson Monarchs 0 
Cheney Diamond Dawgs 5, Colorado Cyclones 3 
Santa Barbara Foresters 8, Denver Cougars 0 Hays Larks 5, Lonestar (TX) Baseball Club 3

HUTCHINSON – The Hays Larks overcame four errors and 16
stranded base runners to beat the Lonestar (TX) Baseball Club 5-3 late Tuesday
and early Wednesday at Hobart-Detter Field and advance to Thursday’s winner’s
bracket semifinals at the 86th NBC World Series.<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/870452413&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-814667509/8-4-2020-larks-coach-frank-leo-postgame-interview" title="Frank Leo Postgame Interview 080420" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Frank Leo Postgame Interview 080420</a></div></div>The Larks (22-8) trailed 2-0 after four innings but scored
two in the top of the fifth to tie then taook the lead with a run in the sixth.
After Lonestar (19-3) scored a run in the bottom of the seventh, the Larks
answered with two unearned runs in the eighth.<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/870452851&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-814667509/8-5-2020-hays-larks-vs-lonestar-baseball-club-of-texas-highlights" title="Hays Larks vs. Lonestar (TX) Baseball Club highlights 080420" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays Larks vs. Lonestar (TX) Baseball Club highlights 080420</a></div></div>Carlos Tavera struck out 11 in six innings for the Larks.
The UT-Arlington product who played for Hays in 2018 then again in last year’s
NBC World Series, allowed two runs (one earned) on three hits. Trevor Munsch
got a big strikeout with two on in the eighth to preserve the two-run lead and
pick up the win. Jacob Ensz worked a 1-2-3 ninth for his second save.Cameron Pehrson’s bloop single to center scored Matt
Cavanagh to cut the lead to 2-1 in the fifth. Brennen van Breusegen’s infield single
scored Wyatt Divis with the tying run.Cruz Aranda led off the sixth with a triple to left then
scored on a wild pitch to give the Larks a 3-2 lead which they would hold until
bottom of the seventh when LBC scored when Pehrson couldn’t handle a throw from
catcher Max McGuire on a steal attempt allowing Seth Stephenson to score.The Larks would take the lead for good in the top of the eighth.
Matt Cavanagh opened the inning with an infield single then advanced to second
on a Wyatt Divis walk. Cameron Pehrson then reached safely on a bunt to lead
the bases. After back-to-back strikeouts by Garrett McGowan and van Breusegen, Max
McGuire grounded to third but the throw was dropped by the first baseman
allowing Cavanagh to score the go-ahead run. Cruz Aranda then knocked in the
second run with an infield single that deflected off the glove of the third
baseman.The Larks get an off-day Wednesday. They will play the
Cheney Diamond Dawgs at a yet to be determined time Thursday at Eck Stadium.Tuesday’s NBC World Series results… 
Kansas City All-Stars 11, Houston MVP Prospects 10 (Houston eliminated) 
Liberal BJ’s 2, Hutchinson Monarchs 0 
Cheney Diamond Dawgs 5, Colorado Cyclones 3 
Santa Barbara Foresters 8, Denver Cougars 0 Hays Larks 5, Lonestar (TX) Baseball Club 3

Larks rally to stay unbeaten at NBC World Series

CHICAGO (AP) — Kris Bryant homered in his return to the lineup and Alec Mills pitched seven effective innings, helping the Chicago Cubs beat the Kansas City Royals 2-0 for their fourth consecutive win. 

Javier Báez had a sacrifice fly and a nice play in the field as NL Central-leading Chicago improved to 8-2 for the first time since 2016. 

Bryant also doubled in the first after missing two games with a stomach ailment. Kansas City wasted a solid performance by Danny Duffy, who pitched six innings of one-run ball.&nbsp;

CHICAGO (AP) — Kris Bryant homered in his return to the lineup and Alec Mills pitched seven effective innings, helping the Chicago Cubs beat the Kansas City Royals 2-0 for their fourth consecutive win. Javier Báez had a sacrifice fly and a nice play in the field as NL Central-leading Chicago improved to 8-2 for the first time since 2016. Bryant also doubled in the first after missing two games with a stomach ailment. Kansas City wasted a solid performance by Danny Duffy, who pitched six innings of one-run ball.&nbsp;

Bryant homers, Mills shines as surging Cubs beat Royals 2-0

WICHITA – The Hays Larks took advantage of 11 walks and got
a solid start on the mound from Wyatt Divis and beat the Kansas City All-Stars 10-0 in seven
innings at Eck Stadium in the opening round of the 86th NBC World Series. 

The
Larks (21-8) advance to the second round of the 13-team double-elimination tournament where they will play the Lonestar (TX) Baseball Club at 8:3 p.m. Tuesday at Hobert-Detter Field in Hutchinson. Lonestar scored a run in the bottom of the ninth to tie then another in the 10th to edge the Houston (TX) MVP Prospects 3-2.

Divis (3-0), who had walked three in his 10 outings during
the regular season, walked two in the first inning but settled down after that
to pick up the win. The third-year Lark struck out nine while allowing only two
hits over five innings.

Drew Buhr and Ryan Ruder both pitched a scoreless inning
of relief.

The Larks first three batters reached safely to start the
game in the top of the first inning. Leo Jiminian scored on a bases-loaded walk
to newcomer Brennen van Breusegan. Matt Cavanagh, who doubled, scored on a wild
pitch.

The Larks went up 3-0 on Jiminian’s groundout to short in
the fourth.

They put the game away with a four-run fifth. With two outs,
Max McGuire singled which was followed by four straight walks and a hit batter.

Hays tacked on three more runs in the in the seventh for the final margin.

Matt Cavanagh, Max McGuire and Sean Cooper all had two of
the Larks 12 hits with McGuire driving in two runs.

WICHITA – The Hays Larks took advantage of 11 walks and got
a solid start on the mound from Wyatt Divis and beat the Kansas City All-Stars 10-0 in seven
innings at Eck Stadium in the opening round of the 86th NBC World Series. The
Larks (21-8) advance to the second round of the 13-team double-elimination tournament where they will play the Lonestar (TX) Baseball Club at 8:3 p.m. Tuesday at Hobert-Detter Field in Hutchinson. Lonestar scored a run in the bottom of the ninth to tie then another in the 10th to edge the Houston (TX) MVP Prospects 3-2.<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/869761549&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-814667509/8-3-20-larks-interview" title="Frank Leo Postgame Interiew 080220" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Frank Leo Postgame Interiew 080220</a></div></div>Divis (3-0), who had walked three in his 10 outings during
the regular season, walked two in the first inning but settled down after that
to pick up the win. The third-year Lark struck out nine while allowing only two
hits over five innings.Drew Buhr and Ryan Ruder both pitched a scoreless inning
of relief.<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/869761672&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-814667509/8-3-20-larks-highlights" title="Hays Larks vs. Kansas City All-Stars highlights 080220" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays Larks vs. Kansas City All-Stars highlights 080220</a></div></div>The Larks first three batters reached safely to start the
game in the top of the first inning. Leo Jiminian scored on a bases-loaded walk
to newcomer Brennen van Breusegan. Matt Cavanagh, who doubled, scored on a wild
pitch.The Larks went up 3-0 on Jiminian’s groundout to short in
the fourth.They put the game away with a four-run fifth. With two outs,
Max McGuire singled which was followed by four straight walks and a hit batter.Hays tacked on three more runs in the in the seventh for the final margin.Matt Cavanagh, Max McGuire and Sean Cooper all had two of
the Larks 12 hits with McGuire driving in two runs.

Larks roll in NBC World Series opener

OAK GROVE, Mo. – After not allowing a run in their first
three games, the Hays Senior Eagles had to come from behind in the title game
to win the USSSAA MO-KAN State High School Championship Sunday. The Eagles beat
the Central Region Mules 5-0 in the semifinals then knocked off Velocity
Baseball 10-5 in the title game.

Starter Carson Jacobs struggled with control in the title
game against Velocity, walking two and throwing four wild pitches in the
first inning which allowed two runs to score.

The Eagles (28-3) took advantage of a key two-out error in the
bottom of the first to score four runs and never trailed again. Remington Cox and
Dawson VonFeldt both hit run-scoring singles following the miscue. Dalton Dale
added and RBI double.

Velocity scored twice in the top of the second to pull
within 4-3 but the Eagles took advantage of another error to score two
more runs and led 6-3. 

Velocity scored on a bases loaded walk and passed ball
in the top of the third to close the gap to 6-5 where it would stay until
the fifth when the Eagles scored three on a Remington Cox fielder’s choice, a
Dawson VonFeldt double and Dalton Dale single.

Brady Kreutzer scored on a passes ball in the sixth to push
the lead to 10-5.

Kreutzer pitched 4 2/3 innings of relief and picked up the
win, allowing no runs on three this with seven strikeouts and two walks.

Remington Cox, Dawson VonFeldt and Dalton Dale all had two
hits and drove in two runs.

Colby Dreiling pitched a complete-game six-hit shutout with
seven strikeouts and one walk in the semifinals win over the Central Region
Mules.

The Mules loaded the bases in the top of the first on an
error, hit batter and single but a strikeout and double play kept them off the
board.

The Eagles would score twice in the bottom of the inning
then ad a run in the third and two in the sixth.

Carson Jacobs had three hits and Remington Cox drove in
three runs.

OAK GROVE, Mo. – After not allowing a run in their first
three games, the Hays Senior Eagles had to come from behind in the title game
to win the USSSAA MO-KAN State High School Championship Sunday. The Eagles beat
the Central Region Mules 5-0 in the semifinals then knocked off Velocity
Baseball 10-5 in the title game.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596427664732.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Starter Carson Jacobs struggled with control in the title
game against Velocity, walking two and throwing four wild pitches in the
first inning which allowed two runs to score.The Eagles (28-3) took advantage of a key two-out error in the
bottom of the first to score four runs and never trailed again. Remington Cox and
Dawson VonFeldt both hit run-scoring singles following the miscue. Dalton Dale
added and RBI double.Velocity scored twice in the top of the second to pull
within 4-3 but the Eagles took advantage of another error to score two
more runs and led 6-3. Velocity scored on a bases loaded walk and passed ball
in the top of the third to close the gap to 6-5 where it would stay until
the fifth when the Eagles scored three on a Remington Cox fielder’s choice, a
Dawson VonFeldt double and Dalton Dale single.Brady Kreutzer scored on a passes ball in the sixth to push
the lead to 10-5.Kreutzer pitched 4 2/3 innings of relief and picked up the
win, allowing no runs on three this with seven strikeouts and two walks.Remington Cox, Dawson VonFeldt and Dalton Dale all had two
hits and drove in two runs.Colby Dreiling pitched a complete-game six-hit shutout with
seven strikeouts and one walk in the semifinals win over the Central Region
Mules.The Mules loaded the bases in the top of the first on an
error, hit batter and single but a strikeout and double play kept them off the
board.The Eagles would score twice in the bottom of the inning
then ad a run in the third and two in the sixth.Carson Jacobs had three hits and Remington Cox drove in
three runs.

Senior Eagles take MO-KAN Tourney title

SMITH CENTER – After blowing out BDS (Neb.) American Legion
17-1 in a three inning run-rule victory, the TMP-Marian Monarchs 18U lost a
heartbreaker to the Alma (Neb.) Seniors 4-3 in Sunday’s championship of the Blue
Raiders Tournament in Smith Center.

The Monarchs (23-11) erased a 1-0 first inning deficit in their
opener against BDS, scoring 11 runs in the top of the second then six in the
third. Four Monarchs had two hits each with Mark Rack, Mason Robbins, Ethan
Atherton and Nick Herrman all driving in two runs apiece.

Kirk Huser allowed one run on four hits with a strikeouts in
the three inning complete-game victory.

In the title game against Alma, the Monarchs led 3-0 after
three but gave up two runs in the top of the sixth and two more in the top of
the seventh after committing two errors with two outs. Alma scored the tying
run on a passed ball and the go-ahead run on a dropped third strike.

The Monarchs were retired in order in the bottom of the
inning to end the game.

TMP scored their first run in the first on an error than
added two more in the third on a Kirk Huser two-run homer.

Mason Robbins went the distance on the mound and suffered
the loss. He allowed four unearned runs on six hits with seven strikeouts and
no walks.

SMITH CENTER – After blowing out BDS (Neb.) American Legion
17-1 in a three inning run-rule victory, the TMP-Marian Monarchs 18U lost a
heartbreaker to the Alma (Neb.) Seniors 4-3 in Sunday’s championship of the Blue
Raiders Tournament in Smith Center.The Monarchs (23-11) erased a 1-0 first inning deficit in their
opener against BDS, scoring 11 runs in the top of the second then six in the
third. Four Monarchs had two hits each with Mark Rack, Mason Robbins, Ethan
Atherton and Nick Herrman all driving in two runs apiece.Kirk Huser allowed one run on four hits with a strikeouts in
the three inning complete-game victory.In the title game against Alma, the Monarchs led 3-0 after
three but gave up two runs in the top of the sixth and two more in the top of
the seventh after committing two errors with two outs. Alma scored the tying
run on a passed ball and the go-ahead run on a dropped third strike.The Monarchs were retired in order in the bottom of the
inning to end the game.TMP scored their first run in the first on an error than
added two more in the third on a Kirk Huser two-run homer.Mason Robbins went the distance on the mound and suffered
the loss. He allowed four unearned runs on six hits with seven strikeouts and
no walks.

Monarchs drop hearbreaker in SC Tourney finals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Nick Madrigal was starting to lose sleep after two frustrating games without his first big league hit.

Once the top prospect finally got it, they kept right on coming.

Madrigal followed his first career hit with three more on Sunday, pacing the Chicago White Sox to a 9-2 romp over the Kansas City Royals. The 23-year-old infielder had a pair of hits in a seven-run seventh inning, when he scored the go-ahead run and had his first career RBI, and barely missed out on a 5-for-5 day on a ground ball in the ninth inning.

"It's hard when everyone knows that you hadn't gotten a hit yet," said Madrigal, who was brought up for the start of the three-game series Friday night.

"They kind of joke with you and the pressure builds," he said, "but once I saw that first one fall the weight was off me."

Yasmani Grandal added three RBI and Nicky Delmonico two in support of right-hander Dylan Cease (1-1), who gave up a homer to Alex Gordon in the third inning but otherwise steered clear of trouble. Cease wound up allowing two runs and five hits over six innings in a solid bounce-back performance from a miserable start in Detroit.

"The biggest thing is I was just a little more under control," Cease said. "Made sure I wasn't rushing down the mound and just trying to be aggressive. It all started with my fastball command."

Scott Barlow (1-1) took the loss for the Royals, who wound up getting swept.

"There are things we need to clean up and get better at. But there are things we're doing well," Royals manager Mike Matheny said, "and when we're doing them well we need to make sure we're pointing that out, too. Bottom line is we play this game for W's and right now they're hard to come by."

Madrigal, the fourth overall pick out of Oregon State in the 2018 draft, had been hitless through two games. He finally got the first of his career in the third inning -- and the White Sox made sure he got the ball -- then added another in the fifth before scoring on a bases-loaded walk.

Madrigal put an exclamation mark on his big afternoon in the seventh. He led off with a single and scored the go-ahead run on Jose Abreu's base hit, then singled again and drove in his first career run when the White Sox batted through the lineup.

If not for Salvador Perez beating him to first base in the ninth, it would have been even more spectacular.

"I think he was a little calmer," White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. "After the first hit he was much more relaxed. When you get to the big leagues, one of the things you want to do is get that one out of the way."

The Royals had high hopes Jakob Junis would get their pitching back on track. He was recalled along with batterymate Cam Gallagher earlier in the day to make his season debut. Both players had been cleared after testing positive for COVID-19 and building up their stamina at the club's alternate training site in Kansas City, Kansas.

Junis and Gallagher worked well together through 4 1/3 innings, surrendering just two runs and six hits.

It was the bullpen that let Kansas City down.

Tyler Zuber walked three while recording just two outs. Barlow then allowed the go-ahead runs in the seventh when Greg Holland was unable to get him out of the two-on, no-out jam. Holland proceeded to allow two more of his own volition, then Glenn Sparkman threw the ball away on an easy grounder for an error that let two more runs score.

Junis helped himself in the second when he deflected a liner by Eloy Jimenez off his foot to Maikel Franco at third base. The ball never hit the ground, so Franco caught it for an out and fired to first base to double off Edwin Encarnacion.

"Looking back on it, it was pretty dumb honestly," Junis said. "The shift was working perfectly right where he hit it. One of those things where I just reacted. I don't know if I've ever reacted by putting my foot out like that. I kicked it up perfectly and it was a pretty cool play all-in-all but not the smartest one."

The Royals optioned right-hander Ronald Bolanos and designated catcher Oscar Hernandez for assignment to make room for Junis and Gallagher on the roster. Bolanos (0-2) allowed five runs while recording just five outs Saturday night.

White Sox utilityman Leury Garcia got the day off after a death in his family. "We'll just leave it at that," Renteria said. "I just kind of gave him a day today to kind of settle his own thoughts. I'm sure everybody understands."

Royals: SS Adalberto Mondesi left after the fifth with a bruised quad. Nicky Lopez replaced him. ... OF Hunter Dozier (coronavirus) could join the alternate site camp Monday to begin a two-week ramp-up, general manager Dayton Moore said. Dozier tested positive July 22 but has been cleared to return.

The White Sox conclude an eight-game, nine-day trip with left-hander Carlos Rodon (0-1, 12.27 ERA) on the mound Monday night in the opener of a two-game series in Milwaukee. The Royals begin a four-game, two-city series against the Cubs on Monday night with lefty Danny Duffy (0-1, 5.79 ERA) starting the first of two in Chicago.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Nick Madrigal was starting to lose sleep after two frustrating games without his first big league hit.Once the top prospect finally got it, they kept right on coming.Madrigal followed his first career hit with three more on Sunday, pacing the Chicago White Sox to a 9-2 romp over the Kansas City Royals. The 23-year-old infielder had a pair of hits in a seven-run seventh inning, when he scored the go-ahead run and had his first career RBI, and barely missed out on a 5-for-5 day on a ground ball in the ninth inning."It's hard when everyone knows that you hadn't gotten a hit yet," said Madrigal, who was brought up for the start of the three-game series Friday night."They kind of joke with you and the pressure builds," he said, "but once I saw that first one fall the weight was off me."Yasmani Grandal added three RBI and Nicky Delmonico two in support of right-hander Dylan Cease (1-1), who gave up a homer to Alex Gordon in the third inning but otherwise steered clear of trouble. Cease wound up allowing two runs and five hits over six innings in a solid bounce-back performance from a miserable start in Detroit."The biggest thing is I was just a little more under control," Cease said. "Made sure I wasn't rushing down the mound and just trying to be aggressive. It all started with my fastball command."Scott Barlow (1-1) took the loss for the Royals, who wound up getting swept."There are things we need to clean up and get better at. But there are things we're doing well," Royals manager Mike Matheny said, "and when we're doing them well we need to make sure we're pointing that out, too. Bottom line is we play this game for W's and right now they're hard to come by."Madrigal, the fourth overall pick out of Oregon State in the 2018 draft, had been hitless through two games. He finally got the first of his career in the third inning -- and the White Sox made sure he got the ball -- then added another in the fifth before scoring on a bases-loaded walk.Madrigal put an exclamation mark on his big afternoon in the seventh. He led off with a single and scored the go-ahead run on Jose Abreu's base hit, then singled again and drove in his first career run when the White Sox batted through the lineup.If not for Salvador Perez beating him to first base in the ninth, it would have been even more spectacular."I think he was a little calmer," White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. "After the first hit he was much more relaxed. When you get to the big leagues, one of the things you want to do is get that one out of the way."The Royals had high hopes Jakob Junis would get their pitching back on track. He was recalled along with batterymate Cam Gallagher earlier in the day to make his season debut. Both players had been cleared after testing positive for COVID-19 and building up their stamina at the club's alternate training site in Kansas City, Kansas.Junis and Gallagher worked well together through 4 1/3 innings, surrendering just two runs and six hits.It was the bullpen that let Kansas City down.Tyler Zuber walked three while recording just two outs. Barlow then allowed the go-ahead runs in the seventh when Greg Holland was unable to get him out of the two-on, no-out jam. Holland proceeded to allow two more of his own volition, then Glenn Sparkman threw the ball away on an easy grounder for an error that let two more runs score.KICK SAVE AND A BEAUTYJunis helped himself in the second when he deflected a liner by Eloy Jimenez off his foot to Maikel Franco at third base. The ball never hit the ground, so Franco caught it for an out and fired to first base to double off Edwin Encarnacion."Looking back on it, it was pretty dumb honestly," Junis said. "The shift was working perfectly right where he hit it. One of those things where I just reacted. I don't know if I've ever reacted by putting my foot out like that. I kicked it up perfectly and it was a pretty cool play all-in-all but not the smartest one."ROSTER MOVESThe Royals optioned right-hander Ronald Bolanos and designated catcher Oscar Hernandez for assignment to make room for Junis and Gallagher on the roster. Bolanos (0-2) allowed five runs while recording just five outs Saturday night.DAY OFFWhite Sox utilityman Leury Garcia got the day off after a death in his family. "We'll just leave it at that," Renteria said. "I just kind of gave him a day today to kind of settle his own thoughts. I'm sure everybody understands."TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: SS Adalberto Mondesi left after the fifth with a bruised quad. Nicky Lopez replaced him. ... OF Hunter Dozier (coronavirus) could join the alternate site camp Monday to begin a two-week ramp-up, general manager Dayton Moore said. Dozier tested positive July 22 but has been cleared to return.UP NEXTThe White Sox conclude an eight-game, nine-day trip with left-hander Carlos Rodon (0-1, 12.27 ERA) on the mound Monday night in the opener of a two-game series in Milwaukee. The Royals begin a four-game, two-city series against the Cubs on Monday night with lefty Danny Duffy (0-1, 5.79 ERA) starting the first of two in Chicago.

Royals get swept by White Sox

OAK GROVE, Mo. – The Hays Senior Eagles picked up a couple
of run-rule victories in pool play Saturday to grab the No. 1 seed heading into
bracket play at the USSSA MO-KAN High School State Tournament Saturday. The Eagles defeated
the Waldo Thunder 14-0 in five innings then knocked off KC Premier 9-0 in five
innings.

The Eagles (26-3) scored four in the top of the first inning
in their opener against Waldo and never looked back adding two in the second,
one in the third, four in the fourth and three in the fifth

Colby Dreiling, Brock Lummus, Carson Jacobs and Josh Haynes
all had two of the Eagles 11 hits. Haynes drove in three while Jacobs and
Remington Cox both had two RBIs.

Garrett Wellbrock pitched a complete game shuthout,
scattering two hits with four strikeouts and no walks.

Dalton Dale and Brock Lummus combined on a one-hitter in the
second game against KC Premier. Dale allowed one hit with seven strikeouts and
no walks through the first four innings. Lummus struck out the side in the
fifth.

Seven Eagles had one hit each with Josh Haynes driving in
two runs. Colby Dreiling, Carson Jacobs and Dawson Von Feldt all drove in runs.

The Eagles begin bracket play Sunday at 10 a.m.

OAK GROVE, Mo. – The Hays Senior Eagles picked up a couple
of run-rule victories in pool play Saturday to grab the No. 1 seed heading into
bracket play at the USSSA MO-KAN High School State Tournament Saturday. The Eagles defeated
the Waldo Thunder 14-0 in five innings then knocked off KC Premier 9-0 in five
innings.The Eagles (26-3) scored four in the top of the first inning
in their opener against Waldo and never looked back adding two in the second,
one in the third, four in the fourth and three in the fifthColby Dreiling, Brock Lummus, Carson Jacobs and Josh Haynes
all had two of the Eagles 11 hits. Haynes drove in three while Jacobs and
Remington Cox both had two RBIs.Garrett Wellbrock pitched a complete game shuthout,
scattering two hits with four strikeouts and no walks.Dalton Dale and Brock Lummus combined on a one-hitter in the
second game against KC Premier. Dale allowed one hit with seven strikeouts and
no walks through the first four innings. Lummus struck out the side in the
fifth.Seven Eagles had one hit each with Josh Haynes driving in
two runs. Colby Dreiling, Carson Jacobs and Dawson Von Feldt all drove in runs.The Eagles begin bracket play Sunday at 10 a.m.

Eagles to 2-0 in pool play at MO-KAN State

SMITH CENTER – The TMP-Marian Monarchs won two of their
first three games in Smith Center this weekend. Friday night Mason Robbins
pitched a complete-game three-hitter in a 3-0 win over the Smith County Blue Raiders.
Saturday, the Monarchs (22-10) lost 6-5 to edged Wood River (Neb.) 6-5 before
bouncing back to beat the Alma (Neb.) Seniors 6-2.

In Friday’s win over the Blue Raiders, Robbins struck out
three and walked none and drove in a run on a groundout in the top of the sixth
to push the lead to 2-0. Noah Gibson followed with a line drive to center which
scored Kirk Huser.

The Monarchs raced out to and early 4-1 against Wood River
on Saturday but the Wranglers came back with four runs in the top of the third
to take the lead. Both teams scored in the fourth. Tyson Dinkel, Ethan Atherton
and Noah Gibson all drove in runs in the Monarchs three-run second. Dinkel
finished with two hits and three RBIs. Mark Rack also had a two hit game.

&nbsp;The Monarchs scored
four in the bottom of the first against Alma then added two in the sixth. Kirk
Huser and Noah Gibson drove in the first two runs then Mason Robbins knocked in
two with a single to centerfield.

Dinkel and Huser both hit sacrifice flies to score runs in
the sixth.

Mark Rack pitched a complete game four-hitter with seven
strikeouts and five walks.

The Monarchs end their season Sunday at noon against the
Smith County Blue Raiders.

SMITH CENTER – The TMP-Marian Monarchs won two of their
first three games in Smith Center this weekend. Friday night Mason Robbins
pitched a complete-game three-hitter in a 3-0 win over the Smith County Blue Raiders.
Saturday, the Monarchs (22-10) lost 6-5 to edged Wood River (Neb.) 6-5 before
bouncing back to beat the Alma (Neb.) Seniors 6-2.In Friday’s win over the Blue Raiders, Robbins struck out
three and walked none and drove in a run on a groundout in the top of the sixth
to push the lead to 2-0. Noah Gibson followed with a line drive to center which
scored Kirk Huser.The Monarchs raced out to and early 4-1 against Wood River
on Saturday but the Wranglers came back with four runs in the top of the third
to take the lead. Both teams scored in the fourth. Tyson Dinkel, Ethan Atherton
and Noah Gibson all drove in runs in the Monarchs three-run second. Dinkel
finished with two hits and three RBIs. Mark Rack also had a two hit game.&nbsp;The Monarchs scored
four in the bottom of the first against Alma then added two in the sixth. Kirk
Huser and Noah Gibson drove in the first two runs then Mason Robbins knocked in
two with a single to centerfield.Dinkel and Huser both hit sacrifice flies to score runs in
the sixth.Mark Rack pitched a complete game four-hitter with seven
strikeouts and five walks.The Monarchs end their season Sunday at noon against the
Smith County Blue Raiders.

Monarchs go 2-1 in Smith Center

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Gio Gonzalez made his first start for the hot-hitting Chicago White Sox more than 16 years after they drafted him, and the veteran responded by holding the Kansas City Royals scoreless into the fourth inning of an 11-5 rout Saturday night.

He got plenty of help from an offense that had three different players pile up four hits apiece.

Eloy Jimenez and Luis Robert were two of them, each finishing a triple shy of the cycle. Jimenez hit a three-run homer to go with a double and two singles while Robert homered and had two doubles and a single from the lead-off spot.

Throw in four hits from Leury Garcia, three from Yoan Moncada and a couple from Yasmani Grandal, who also drove in two runs, and the White Sox finished with 21 hits against Ronald Bolanos (0-2) and the Kansas City bullpen.

"We've been working hard as group and just happy to be with young guys like us, learning from veterans," Robert said through a translator. "Now is the moment I think we have the team to compete."

Gonzalez scattered five hits and three walks while striking out six in 3 2/3 innings. He left with a 5-0 lead thanks to his offense, setting up Matt Foster (1-0) and the rest of the Chicago bullpen to get through the rest of the game

Whit Merrifield hit a two-run homer for the Royals. Ryan O'Hearn drove in their other two runs.

"We're missing a couple timely hits here and there and not making a play or two here and there that can put us at 5-4, even maybe 6-3," said Merrifield, who made one of the Royals' four errors. "Kind of the way the ball is bouncing lately. Hopefully we can come up with some timely hits and get things rolling."

The teams combined for 36 hits and left 27 runners on base in a game that lasted nearly 4 hours.

The 34-year-old Gonzalez was a first-round pick of the White Sox in 2004, but he was traded to the Phillies the following year in a deal that included Aaron Rowand and Jim Thome. That began an odyssey that included stops with the Athletics, Nationals and Brewers along with two All-Star selections and a season in which he led the National League in wins.

Gonzalez finally returned to the White Sox in December, signing a $5 million contract for this season, and made his debut for them in relief of injured starter Reynaldo Lopez last weekend. Gonzalez took his spot in the rotation Saturday night.

The left-hander might keep it for a while, too, thanks to some poise under pressure.

Gonzalez had a leadoff single wiped away when Merrifield was caught stealing in the first. He struck out Nicky Lopez to leave the bases loaded in the second. After leaving another aboard in the third, Gonzalez exited with the bases loaded in the fourth, and watched from the dugout as Jimmy Cordero got Merrifield to pop out and end the threat.

"He worked through some leveraged innings but got us through a little deeper today," White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. "Hopefully his next outing he can go even deeper. He kept those guys off balance a bit and did what he could. We're trying to extend him a little bit and hopefully next ballgame we can get him even deeper."

The White Sox became the first team to lead off with four Cuban players in major league history, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. Robert led off the game, Moncada batted second, Jose Abreu third and Grandal was the cleanup hitter.

White Sox: INF Tim Anderson (right groin strain) went on the IL after leaving in the seventh inning of Friday night's game. He had been hitting .333 after leading the majors with a .335 average last season. C Yermin Mercedes was recalled from the taxi squad to fill his roster spot. Mercedes has yet to make his major league debut.

Royals: RHP Brad Keller pitched a simulated game at Kauffman Stadium earlier Saturday and could make his season debut this week. The Royals' opening day starter in 2019 tested positive for COVID-19 but has been cleared for about two weeks. "I feel pretty good. Threw quite a bit of pitches today," Keller said. "Whenever they tell me, I'm ready."

Royals RHP Jakob Junis makes his season debut Sunday after returning from a positive COVID-19 test, becoming their major league-leading seventh different starter. RHP Dylan Cease (0-1, 15.43) is on the mound for the White Sox.

"I was planning on throwing (a bullpen session) tomorrow but the last couple of outings have gone pretty well," Junis said earlier Saturday. "I am just excited to get back with my team and compete. I like where I'm at right now."

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Gio Gonzalez made his first start for the hot-hitting Chicago White Sox more than 16 years after they drafted him, and the veteran responded by holding the Kansas City Royals scoreless into the fourth inning of an 11-5 rout Saturday night.He got plenty of help from an offense that had three different players pile up four hits apiece.Eloy Jimenez and Luis Robert were two of them, each finishing a triple shy of the cycle. Jimenez hit a three-run homer to go with a double and two singles while Robert homered and had two doubles and a single from the lead-off spot.Throw in four hits from Leury Garcia, three from Yoan Moncada and a couple from Yasmani Grandal, who also drove in two runs, and the White Sox finished with 21 hits against Ronald Bolanos (0-2) and the Kansas City bullpen."We've been working hard as group and just happy to be with young guys like us, learning from veterans," Robert said through a translator. "Now is the moment I think we have the team to compete."Gonzalez scattered five hits and three walks while striking out six in 3 2/3 innings. He left with a 5-0 lead thanks to his offense, setting up Matt Foster (1-0) and the rest of the Chicago bullpen to get through the rest of the gameWhit Merrifield hit a two-run homer for the Royals. Ryan O'Hearn drove in their other two runs."We're missing a couple timely hits here and there and not making a play or two here and there that can put us at 5-4, even maybe 6-3," said Merrifield, who made one of the Royals' four errors. "Kind of the way the ball is bouncing lately. Hopefully we can come up with some timely hits and get things rolling."The teams combined for 36 hits and left 27 runners on base in a game that lasted nearly 4 hours.The 34-year-old Gonzalez was a first-round pick of the White Sox in 2004, but he was traded to the Phillies the following year in a deal that included Aaron Rowand and Jim Thome. That began an odyssey that included stops with the Athletics, Nationals and Brewers along with two All-Star selections and a season in which he led the National League in wins.Gonzalez finally returned to the White Sox in December, signing a $5 million contract for this season, and made his debut for them in relief of injured starter Reynaldo Lopez last weekend. Gonzalez took his spot in the rotation Saturday night.The left-hander might keep it for a while, too, thanks to some poise under pressure.Gonzalez had a leadoff single wiped away when Merrifield was caught stealing in the first. He struck out Nicky Lopez to leave the bases loaded in the second. After leaving another aboard in the third, Gonzalez exited with the bases loaded in the fourth, and watched from the dugout as Jimmy Cordero got Merrifield to pop out and end the threat."He worked through some leveraged innings but got us through a little deeper today," White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. "Hopefully his next outing he can go even deeper. He kept those guys off balance a bit and did what he could. We're trying to extend him a little bit and hopefully next ballgame we can get him even deeper."CUBA CONNECTIONThe White Sox became the first team to lead off with four Cuban players in major league history, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. Robert led off the game, Moncada batted second, Jose Abreu third and Grandal was the cleanup hitter.TRAINER'S ROOMWhite Sox: INF Tim Anderson (right groin strain) went on the IL after leaving in the seventh inning of Friday night's game. He had been hitting .333 after leading the majors with a .335 average last season. C Yermin Mercedes was recalled from the taxi squad to fill his roster spot. Mercedes has yet to make his major league debut.Royals: RHP Brad Keller pitched a simulated game at Kauffman Stadium earlier Saturday and could make his season debut this week. The Royals' opening day starter in 2019 tested positive for COVID-19 but has been cleared for about two weeks. "I feel pretty good. Threw quite a bit of pitches today," Keller said. "Whenever they tell me, I'm ready."UP NEXTRoyals RHP Jakob Junis makes his season debut Sunday after returning from a positive COVID-19 test, becoming their major league-leading seventh different starter. RHP Dylan Cease (0-1, 15.43) is on the mound for the White Sox."I was planning on throwing (a bullpen session) tomorrow but the last couple of outings have gone pretty well," Junis said earlier Saturday. "I am just excited to get back with my team and compete. I like where I'm at right now."

Royals dig early hole, lose to White Sox

HAYS
– After playing shorthanded all summer, the Hays Larks have added seven players
to their roster for next week’s NBC World Series. Manager Frank Leo announced
Thursday the addition of a couple of pitchers, two catchers, a couple of
infielders and an outfielder.

The
Larks are also losing four current members of the team. Pitchers Landon Shirer
and Brady Rose, catcher Jacob Wyeth and infielder Grant Lung will not be available
at the World Series.

One
of the newcomers, infielder Cruz Aranda who played at Salina South and played
at Division I Campbell University this spring, is already with the team and started
at second base in the regular season finale Wednesday.

Another
addition is no stranger to the Larks. Right-handed pitcher Carlos Tavera joins
the team for the postseason for a second straight year. Tavera made two
appearances in last year’s NBC World Series. He played for the Larks in 2018
and went 4-0 in nine appearances. Tavera was 3-1 with a 1.71 in the shortened
season this spring at the University to Texas at Arlington.

INF
Cruz Aranda: Salina South graduate. Played two seasons at Neosho County CC. Played
this spring at Division I Campbell University. Transferring to Pittsburg State.

RHP
Pitcher Zach Curry: 2-1, 8.68 ERA in nine appearances (five starts) at Pittsburg
State this spring.

Catcher
Gus Freeman: Played in 18 games for the Derby Twins this summer. The Leawood,
Kan. native attended Blue Valley North HS and played his freshman year at Cowley
County CC this spring.

RHP
Carlos Tavera: Making third appearance with the Larks. Played on the 2018 team and
was added for last year’s NBC World Series. Played this spring at UT-Arlington.

1B
Garrett McGowan: A native of Blue Springs, Mo. who was a junior this past
season at the University of Illinois. Played two seasons at Dodge City CC where he broke the programs home run record.

C
Hector Corillo: Tulsa native who batted .333 in 30 games at Dodge City CC this
spring.

OF
Brennen van Breusegen: Columbia, Illinois native started 14 games and hit .306
this spring at Central Missouri.

HAYS
– After playing shorthanded all summer, the Hays Larks have added seven players
to their roster for next week’s NBC World Series. Manager Frank Leo announced
Thursday the addition of a couple of pitchers, two catchers, a couple of
infielders and an outfielder.The
Larks are also losing four current members of the team. Pitchers Landon Shirer
and Brady Rose, catcher Jacob Wyeth and infielder Grant Lung will not be available
at the World Series.One
of the newcomers, infielder Cruz Aranda who played at Salina South and played
at Division I Campbell University this spring, is already with the team and started
at second base in the regular season finale Wednesday.Another
addition is no stranger to the Larks. Right-handed pitcher Carlos Tavera joins
the team for the postseason for a second straight year. Tavera made two
appearances in last year’s NBC World Series. He played for the Larks in 2018
and went 4-0 in nine appearances. Tavera was 3-1 with a 1.71 in the shortened
season this spring at the University to Texas at Arlington.Larks
roster additions...INF
Cruz Aranda: Salina South graduate. Played two seasons at Neosho County CC. Played
this spring at Division I Campbell University. Transferring to Pittsburg State.RHP
Pitcher Zach Curry: 2-1, 8.68 ERA in nine appearances (five starts) at Pittsburg
State this spring.Catcher
Gus Freeman: Played in 18 games for the Derby Twins this summer. The Leawood,
Kan. native attended Blue Valley North HS and played his freshman year at Cowley
County CC this spring.RHP
Carlos Tavera: Making third appearance with the Larks. Played on the 2018 team and
was added for last year’s NBC World Series. Played this spring at UT-Arlington.1B
Garrett McGowan: A native of Blue Springs, Mo. who was a junior this past
season at the University of Illinois. Played two seasons at Dodge City CC where he broke the programs home run record.C
Hector Corillo: Tulsa native who batted .333 in 30 games at Dodge City CC this
spring.OF
Brennen van Breusegen: Columbia, Illinois native started 14 games and hit .306
this spring at Central Missouri.

Larks add to roster for NBC World Series

DETROIT (AP) - Trevor Rosenthal couldn't remember the last time he'd earned a save -- nearly three years ago.

That drought is finally over after Rosenthal pitched a scoreless ninth inning Thursday night in Kansas City's 5-3 victory over the Detroit Tigers. The Royals overcame Miguel Cabrera's first multihomer game since 2016.

Once a standout closer for St. Louis, Rosenthal has struggled with his health and his effectiveness in recent years, finishing 2019 with a 13.50 ERA in 22 appearances with the Nationals and Tigers. When he retired JaCoby Jones on a grounder to end the game, he gave his glove a little celebratory tap.

"I've just always focused on putting in the work," Rosenthal said. "I've been fortunate that a lot of people have given me opportunities even when I've been struggling."

It was his first save since Aug. 12, 2017, when he was with St. Louis.

The Royals have scored 25 of their 31 runs this year in the first five innings, but this time their offense came through late. Whit Merrifield scored on Salvador Perez's grounder to break a 2-all tie in the seventh. Bubba Starling added a double the following inning that gave Kansas City two insurance runs.

"Great jump by Whit on the contact play," manager Mike Matheny said. "Then Bubba gets a chance to put an exclamation point on it right there. We needed those runs, obviously."

Cabrera hit solo homers in the first and eighth, and Jonathan Schoop added one for Detroit in the fourth. It was Cabrera's first multihomer game since Sept. 30, 2016 at Atlanta, and he's gone deep three times in the first seven games this year after hitting only 12 home runs in all of 2019. He now has 480 for his career.

"He's the smartest hitter in the game, no question about it," said Ivan Nova, Detroit's starting pitcher. "He has the timing, the intelligence and everything. He's still getting a little bit older, but he's still smart."

Greg Holland (1-0) won in relief for the Royals, and Jose Cisnero (1-1) took the loss.

Brady Singer allowed two runs and five hits in five innings for Kansas City in his second career start. Nova went 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs and eight hits.

Ryan O'Hearn opened the scoring in the top of the first with an RBI single, and Franchy Cordero hit a run-scoring single in the second to put the Royals up 2-1.

After six hits in the first three games of the series, Merrifield didn't have any Thursday, but he still made an impact. He was hit by a pitch with one out in the seventh, then went to third on Jorge Soler's double.

Perez hit a bouncer up the middle that was fielded by Schoop, the second baseman. Merrifield scored, although Schoop threw to third to retire Soler.

Starling's double down the line in left field made it 5-2.

The Tigers went a third straight game without walking anybody -- the first time they've done that since April 13-15, 2015.

Tigers: OF Cameron Maybin left after beating out an infield hit in the ninth. Manager Ron Gardenhire said Maybin had a strained quad and would go on the injured list.

LHP Kris Bubic makes his big league debut for the Royals when he starts their home opener Friday night against Chicago. LHP Dallas Keuchel takes the ball for the White Sox.

Detroit starts a home series against Cincinnati, with RHP Spencer Turnbull (0-0) facing RHP Trevor Bauer (0-0) of the Reds.

DETROIT (AP) - Trevor Rosenthal couldn't remember the last time he'd earned a save -- nearly three years ago."It's been a while," he said.That drought is finally over after Rosenthal pitched a scoreless ninth inning Thursday night in Kansas City's 5-3 victory over the Detroit Tigers. The Royals overcame Miguel Cabrera's first multihomer game since 2016.Once a standout closer for St. Louis, Rosenthal has struggled with his health and his effectiveness in recent years, finishing 2019 with a 13.50 ERA in 22 appearances with the Nationals and Tigers. When he retired JaCoby Jones on a grounder to end the game, he gave his glove a little celebratory tap."I've just always focused on putting in the work," Rosenthal said. "I've been fortunate that a lot of people have given me opportunities even when I've been struggling."It was his first save since Aug. 12, 2017, when he was with St. Louis.The Royals have scored 25 of their 31 runs this year in the first five innings, but this time their offense came through late. Whit Merrifield scored on Salvador Perez's grounder to break a 2-all tie in the seventh. Bubba Starling added a double the following inning that gave Kansas City two insurance runs."Great jump by Whit on the contact play," manager Mike Matheny said. "Then Bubba gets a chance to put an exclamation point on it right there. We needed those runs, obviously."Cabrera hit solo homers in the first and eighth, and Jonathan Schoop added one for Detroit in the fourth. It was Cabrera's first multihomer game since Sept. 30, 2016 at Atlanta, and he's gone deep three times in the first seven games this year after hitting only 12 home runs in all of 2019. He now has 480 for his career."He's the smartest hitter in the game, no question about it," said Ivan Nova, Detroit's starting pitcher. "He has the timing, the intelligence and everything. He's still getting a little bit older, but he's still smart."Greg Holland (1-0) won in relief for the Royals, and Jose Cisnero (1-1) took the loss.Brady Singer allowed two runs and five hits in five innings for Kansas City in his second career start. Nova went 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs and eight hits.Ryan O'Hearn opened the scoring in the top of the first with an RBI single, and Franchy Cordero hit a run-scoring single in the second to put the Royals up 2-1.After six hits in the first three games of the series, Merrifield didn't have any Thursday, but he still made an impact. He was hit by a pitch with one out in the seventh, then went to third on Jorge Soler's double.Perez hit a bouncer up the middle that was fielded by Schoop, the second baseman. Merrifield scored, although Schoop threw to third to retire Soler.Starling's double down the line in left field made it 5-2.IN CONTROLThe Tigers went a third straight game without walking anybody -- the first time they've done that since April 13-15, 2015.TRAINER'S ROOMTigers: OF Cameron Maybin left after beating out an infield hit in the ninth. Manager Ron Gardenhire said Maybin had a strained quad and would go on the injured list.UP NEXTLHP Kris Bubic makes his big league debut for the Royals when he starts their home opener Friday night against Chicago. LHP Dallas Keuchel takes the ball for the White Sox.Detroit starts a home series against Cincinnati, with RHP Spencer Turnbull (0-0) facing RHP Trevor Bauer (0-0) of the Reds.

Royals beat Tigers to split four-game series

The Big 12 Conference is cancelling its Virtual Football Media Day presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors.&nbsp; It is yet to be determined if the event will be rescheduled.&nbsp; The Conference’s annual media preview was slated for Monday, August 3, after being moved from its originally scheduled July 20-21 dates.

“There continues to be a lot more questions than answers about what the football season will look like,” said Commissioner Bob Bowlsby. “A media day is intended to talk football and the prospects for the season. Part of that discussion is who you will be playing and when. With the on-going consideration of scheduling models by our Board of Directors, this is the best course of action at this time. “

A media briefing with Commissioner Bowlsby will be scheduled in the near-term to update on the State of the Conference.

The Big 12 Conference is cancelling its Virtual Football Media Day presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors.&nbsp; It is yet to be determined if the event will be rescheduled.&nbsp; The Conference’s annual media preview was slated for Monday, August 3, after being moved from its originally scheduled July 20-21 dates.“There continues to be a lot more questions than answers about what the football season will look like,” said Commissioner Bob Bowlsby. “A media day is intended to talk football and the prospects for the season. Part of that discussion is who you will be playing and when. With the on-going consideration of scheduling models by our Board of Directors, this is the best course of action at this time. “A media briefing with Commissioner Bowlsby will be scheduled in the near-term to update on the State of the Conference.Big 12 Release

Big 12 cancels its virtual football media days

Maddie Holub tosses her second of consecutive perfect games as the Fort Hays State softball team defeats Missouri Southern State 5-0 in game one a doubleheader at Tiger Stadium on April 12, 2013.

Maddie Holub tosses her second of consecutive perfect games as the Fort Hays State softball team defeats Missouri Southern State 5-0 in game one a doubleheader at Tiger Stadium on April 12, 2013.<div><iframe title="FHSU SB vs. Missouri Southern State (Holub perfect game) (April 12, 2013)" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/pcqsw-e4fdfa?from=pb6admin&amp;download=1&amp;version=1&amp;vjs=1&amp;auto=0&amp;share=1&amp;download=1&amp;rtl=0&amp;fonts=Helvetica&amp;skin=7&amp;pfauth="></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: Holub perfect game

HAYS – The Hays Larks waited on a 48-minute rain delay then
overcame an early 2-0 deficit and beat the Gameday Saints 10-2 in their regular
season finale Wednesday night at Larks Park.

The Saints (19-11, 17-11 RMBL) got a home run in their first
at-bat after the delay then added another run in the third for the early lead.

The Larks (20-8, 20-8 RMBL) answered with seven runs in the fourth. The first
three came when Jacob Wyeth has hit by a pitch with the bases loaded. Sean
Cooper and Palmer Hutchison followed with back-to-back walks with the bases
loaded which gave the Larks the lead for good.

Cruz Aranda, a new addition for the NBC World Series, hit a
ground ball to short but the Saints boot a potential inning ending double play.
Leo Jiminian then hit a soft liner to right field which scored two more runs.
Matt Cavanagh’s sacrifice fly to left scored the final run of the inning.

The Larks added two more runs in the fifth on a Palmer
Hutchison single and passed ball.

Wyatt Divis walked and scored on an error in the sixth.

The Larks used six pitchers with Ryan Ruder (6-1) picking up
the win. Starter Drew Buhr gave up a run on three hits in two innings. Ruder
followed and gave up an unearned run on three hits over two frames. Paddy Walsh
had two scoreless innings and was followed by Brady Rose, Jacob Ensz and Wyatt
Divis who all pitched a scoreless inning.

Next up for the Larks is the NBC World Series which begins
Monday at Eck Stadium in Wichita and Hobart-Detter Field Hutchinson. The Larks
take on the Kansas City All-Stars Monday at 6 p.m. at Eck Stadium.

HAYS – The Hays Larks waited on a 48-minute rain delay then
overcame an early 2-0 deficit and beat the Gameday Saints 10-2 in their regular
season finale Wednesday night at Larks Park.The Saints (19-11, 17-11 RMBL) got a home run in their first
at-bat after the delay then added another run in the third for the early lead.<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/866942071&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/07-29-20-larks-interview" title="Frank Leo Postgame Interview 072920" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Frank Leo Postgame Interview 072920</a></div></div>The Larks (20-8, 20-8 RMBL) answered with seven runs in the fourth. The first
three came when Jacob Wyeth has hit by a pitch with the bases loaded. Sean
Cooper and Palmer Hutchison followed with back-to-back walks with the bases
loaded which gave the Larks the lead for good.<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/866942101&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/07-29-20-larks-highlights" title="Hays Larks vs. Gameday Saints Highlights 072920" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays Larks vs. Gameday Saints Highlights 072920</a></div></div>Cruz Aranda, a new addition for the NBC World Series, hit a
ground ball to short but the Saints boot a potential inning ending double play.
Leo Jiminian then hit a soft liner to right field which scored two more runs.
Matt Cavanagh’s sacrifice fly to left scored the final run of the inning.The Larks added two more runs in the fifth on a Palmer
Hutchison single and passed ball.Wyatt Divis walked and scored on an error in the sixth.The Larks used six pitchers with Ryan Ruder (6-1) picking up
the win. Starter Drew Buhr gave up a run on three hits in two innings. Ruder
followed and gave up an unearned run on three hits over two frames. Paddy Walsh
had two scoreless innings and was followed by Brady Rose, Jacob Ensz and Wyatt
Divis who all pitched a scoreless inning.Next up for the Larks is the NBC World Series which begins
Monday at Eck Stadium in Wichita and Hobart-Detter Field Hutchinson. The Larks
take on the Kansas City All-Stars Monday at 6 p.m. at Eck Stadium.

Larks rally for win in regular season finale

DETROIT (AP) - JaCoby Jones hit a tiebreaking solo homer in the seventh inning, and Detroit's bullpen came through again in a 5-4 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday night.

A night after pitching six scoreless innings in a win over the Royals, the Tigers' relievers held Kansas City without a baserunner for four. Detroit rallied from a 4-0 deficit thanks in large part to Jones, who doubled twice before connecting off Ian Kennedy (0-1) for his third homer of the year.

"Obviously, it felt great," Jones said. "We were battling. Our pitching staff kept us in the game. They were grinding, getting outs."

Jonathan Schoop also went deep for the Tigers. Maikel Franco hit two doubles and a single for Kansas City, and Whit Merrifield had two hits and scored twice.

Bryan Garcia (1-0) earned his first big league win, one of four Detroit relievers who pitched in the game. Joe Jimenez worked the ninth for his fourth save.

"Bryan was fantastic tonight," manager Ron Gardenhire said. "Came in and the ball was really jumping out of his hand."

Danny Duffy allowed only three hits in five innings for the Royals, but one of them was Schoop's two-run shot in the fifth, which barely made it past a leaping Merrifield at the wall in right and tied the game at 4. Duffy struck out eight with one walk.

"I felt confident with what I was doing out there, it just didn't go our way and it's unacceptable," Duffy said. "To have that kind of stuff tonight, got to go deeper in the game, man. Brutal. Got to go deeper in the game."

Merrifield is now 22 for 42 against Detroit's Matthew Boyd after going 2 for 3 against him Wednesday. He led off the game with a double and scored on Franco's two-base hit. Merrifield also singled to start the third and scored on a single by Franco. Ryan McBroom's RBI single made it 4-0 in the third.

Detroit chipped away with sacrifice flies by Schoop in the third and Niko Goodrum in the fifth. Then Schoop went deep to tie it.

The Tigers have homered in every game so far this season after finishing last in the AL in that category in 2019.

Boyd allowed four runs and nine hits in five innings for Detroit. He struck out six.

Jones was hit up high by a pitch in Tuesday's game. He was able to keep playing but still wasn't pleased a day later.

"You get pitched up and in all the time, and these guys are the ones that pitched up and in on me last year and broke my wrist," Jones said. "To get hit in the face yesterday just topped it off, but I mean, I'm over it."

Adalberto Mondesi was 2 for 21 on the season coming into the game -- and made a baserunning blunder in the ninth inning Tuesday night. The Royals dropped him from third to sixth in the batting order Wednesday, and he tripled in the second and scored on Bubba Starling's sacrifice fly.

Tigers: Gardenhire said RHP Dario Agrazal, who went on the 10-day injured list Monday, has forearm tendinitis.

Royals rookie Brady Singer (0-0) makes his second career start Thursday night against Detroit's Ivan Nova (0-0).

DETROIT (AP) - JaCoby Jones hit a tiebreaking solo homer in the seventh inning, and Detroit's bullpen came through again in a 5-4 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday night.A night after pitching six scoreless innings in a win over the Royals, the Tigers' relievers held Kansas City without a baserunner for four. Detroit rallied from a 4-0 deficit thanks in large part to Jones, who doubled twice before connecting off Ian Kennedy (0-1) for his third homer of the year."Obviously, it felt great," Jones said. "We were battling. Our pitching staff kept us in the game. They were grinding, getting outs."Jonathan Schoop also went deep for the Tigers. Maikel Franco hit two doubles and a single for Kansas City, and Whit Merrifield had two hits and scored twice.Bryan Garcia (1-0) earned his first big league win, one of four Detroit relievers who pitched in the game. Joe Jimenez worked the ninth for his fourth save."Bryan was fantastic tonight," manager Ron Gardenhire said. "Came in and the ball was really jumping out of his hand."Danny Duffy allowed only three hits in five innings for the Royals, but one of them was Schoop's two-run shot in the fifth, which barely made it past a leaping Merrifield at the wall in right and tied the game at 4. Duffy struck out eight with one walk."I felt confident with what I was doing out there, it just didn't go our way and it's unacceptable," Duffy said. "To have that kind of stuff tonight, got to go deeper in the game, man. Brutal. Got to go deeper in the game."Merrifield is now 22 for 42 against Detroit's Matthew Boyd after going 2 for 3 against him Wednesday. He led off the game with a double and scored on Franco's two-base hit. Merrifield also singled to start the third and scored on a single by Franco. Ryan McBroom's RBI single made it 4-0 in the third.Detroit chipped away with sacrifice flies by Schoop in the third and Niko Goodrum in the fifth. Then Schoop went deep to tie it.The Tigers have homered in every game so far this season after finishing last in the AL in that category in 2019.Boyd allowed four runs and nine hits in five innings for Detroit. He struck out six.Jones was hit up high by a pitch in Tuesday's game. He was able to keep playing but still wasn't pleased a day later."You get pitched up and in all the time, and these guys are the ones that pitched up and in on me last year and broke my wrist," Jones said. "To get hit in the face yesterday just topped it off, but I mean, I'm over it."LINEUP CHANGEAdalberto Mondesi was 2 for 21 on the season coming into the game -- and made a baserunning blunder in the ninth inning Tuesday night. The Royals dropped him from third to sixth in the batting order Wednesday, and he tripled in the second and scored on Bubba Starling's sacrifice fly.TRAINER'S ROOMTigers: Gardenhire said RHP Dario Agrazal, who went on the 10-day injured list Monday, has forearm tendinitis.UP NEXTRoyals rookie Brady Singer (0-0) makes his second career start Thursday night against Detroit's Ivan Nova (0-0).

Royals blow another early lead, lose to Tigers

Kansas City Chiefs running back Damien Williams has opted out of the 2020 season, general manager Brett Veach said Wednesday.

Williams led the Chiefs in rushing last season with 498 yards and five touchdowns. He scored two touchdowns in Kansas City's Super Bowl victory over the San Francisco 49ers.

The Chiefs used their first-round draft pick in 2020 on running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire out of LSU, and he was expected to be a factor in the Chiefs' offense as a rookie.

Kansas City Chiefs running back Damien Williams has opted out of the 2020 season, general manager Brett Veach said Wednesday.Williams led the Chiefs in rushing last season with 498 yards and five touchdowns. He scored two touchdowns in Kansas City's Super Bowl victory over the San Francisco 49ers.The Chiefs used their first-round draft pick in 2020 on running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire out of LSU, and he was expected to be a factor in the Chiefs' offense as a rookie.

Chiefs RB Damien Williams opts out of playing in 2020

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -&nbsp;The MIAA laid out a guiding document for the start of fall activities. The document clarifies starting dates and activities for the fall sports seasons, and all other sports as they return to campus for the fall semester. All voluntary activities as described by the NCAA Division II Administrative Committee during summer 2020 are permitted up until the start of each institution’s first day of classes.&nbsp; Starting from a member institution’s first day of classes until August 24, football teams can conduct team/film meetings, strength and conditioning activities with no on-field/court activities with equipment or individual skill instruction, and each student-athlete is restricted to 15 hours per week with one day off per week. From August 25 through August 29, teams will be permitted to conduct their acclimatization period as specified in NCAA Bylaw 17.10.2.3. Teams would then be able to start full practice sessions on August 31.&nbsp; Beginning on a member institution’s first day of classes until Sunday, August 30, men’s and women’s cross country, women’s soccer, and volleyball teams will be allowed to conduct team/film meetings, strength and conditioning activities with no on-field/court activities with equipment or individual skill instruction, and each student-athlete is restricted to 15 hours per week with one day off per week. Teams can begin full practice sessions on Monday, August 31. For men’s and women’s golf and men’s and women’s tennis, all normal non-championship segment activities are allowed and will be excluded from the MIAA’s adjusted start dates.&nbsp; All MIAA sports that were not listed above can have no physical activity, which includes weight room and/or conditioning sessions until August 31. Team meetings and any physicals with medical officials are permitted, and each student-athlete is restricted to no more than eight hours of team activity per week during that time.&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -&nbsp;The MIAA laid out a guiding document for the start of fall activities. The document clarifies starting dates and activities for the fall sports seasons, and all other sports as they return to campus for the fall semester. All voluntary activities as described by the NCAA Division II Administrative Committee during summer 2020 are permitted up until the start of each institution’s first day of classes.&nbsp; Starting from a member institution’s first day of classes until August 24, football teams can conduct team/film meetings, strength and conditioning activities with no on-field/court activities with equipment or individual skill instruction, and each student-athlete is restricted to 15 hours per week with one day off per week. From August 25 through August 29, teams will be permitted to conduct their acclimatization period as specified in NCAA Bylaw 17.10.2.3. Teams would then be able to start full practice sessions on August 31.&nbsp; Beginning on a member institution’s first day of classes until Sunday, August 30, men’s and women’s cross country, women’s soccer, and volleyball teams will be allowed to conduct team/film meetings, strength and conditioning activities with no on-field/court activities with equipment or individual skill instruction, and each student-athlete is restricted to 15 hours per week with one day off per week. Teams can begin full practice sessions on Monday, August 31. For men’s and women’s golf and men’s and women’s tennis, all normal non-championship segment activities are allowed and will be excluded from the MIAA’s adjusted start dates.&nbsp; All MIAA sports that were not listed above can have no physical activity, which includes weight room and/or conditioning sessions until August 31. Team meetings and any physicals with medical officials are permitted, and each student-athlete is restricted to no more than eight hours of team activity per week during that time.&nbsp;MIAA Release

MIAA lays out guiding document for starting fall activities

HAYS
– The Hays Larks committed four errors and wasted several scoring chances and
lost 3-2 to the Gameday Saints Tuesday at Larks Park.

The
Larks (19-8, 19-8 RMBL) stranded 11 baserunners, seven of them in scoring
position as they drop their second straight following a season-best seven-game
win streak.

Cameron
Pehrson tripled off the left field wall which scored Wyatt Divis from first
after he was hit by a pitch with two outs in the bottom of the first inning.

HAYS
– The Hays Larks committed four errors and wasted several scoring chances and
lost 3-2 to the Gameday Saints Tuesday at Larks Park.The
Larks (19-8, 19-8 RMBL) stranded 11 baserunners, seven of them in scoring
position as they drop their second straight following a season-best seven-game
win streak.<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/866353318&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-814667509/7-28-2020-larks-coach-frank-leo-postgame-interview" title="Frank Leo Postgame Interview 072820" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Frank Leo Postgame Interview 072820</a></div></div>Cameron
Pehrson tripled off the left field wall which scored Wyatt Divis from first
after he was hit by a pitch with two outs in the bottom of the first inning.<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/866353204&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-814667509/7-28-2020-hays-larks-vs-gameday-saints-highlights" title="Hays Larks vs. Gameday Saints Highlights 072820" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays Larks vs. Gameday Saints Highlights 072820</a></div></div>The
Saints (9-11, 17-10 RMBL) tied it in the fourth after a leadoff walk and
two-out single by Bailey Seeger.The
Larks took back the lead in the bottom of the fifth on a Divis two-out single
scoring Jace Armstrong but Gamday answered with two in the top of the sixth,
the second following a fielding error, to grab the lead for good.Trey
Riggs (1-1) pitched two innings of relief and took the loss after allowing two
runs (one earned) on one hits with a strikeout and a walk.The
Larks and Saints close out the regular season Wednesday night with a 7 p.m.
start at Larks Park. You can hear the game on KFIX (96.9-FM) beginning at 6:45
p.m..The
Larks will open play at the 86th NBC World Series Monday at 6 p.m. against the
Kansas City All-Stars at Wichita State’s Eck Stadium. This year’s tournament
has 13 teams and will play a double-elimination format.