MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Max Kepler&nbsp;hit a two-run homer to support another strong start from Randy Dognak, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals&nbsp;4-2 on Sunday.

Dobnak, the surprise right-hander who was promoted four levels last season before making a postseason start, continued his impressive run in 2020 with two runs allowed, both on solo homers, in 5 1/3 innings. Dobnak (4-1) gave up just three hits, while his ERA rose from a majors-best 0.90 to 1.42.

''This is just more of what we've seen,'' Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said. ''We've seen great outing after great outing.''

Alex Avila doubled, walked twice and scored a pair of runs for Minnesota, which has won four of six after being swept in Kansas City last week. Sergio Romo&nbsp;collected his third save.

Rookie Brady Singer&nbsp;(1-2) allowed three runs and four hits in 5 2/3 innings for the Royals. Hunter Dozier and Alex Gordon&nbsp;each hit solo home runs to give Kansas City a 2-0 lead after two innings.

After the game ended, the Royals bench was visibly upset and third base coach Vance Wilson was pointing and yelling. Kansas City manager Mike Matheny said the Twins were taunting his ball club, and some Royals took offense.

''I think what you're seeing is the result of being able to hear everything each bench says,'' Matheny said. ''Can't take emotions out of this game either and a little taunting to our sides and the boys didn't like it a whole lot.''

Dobnak was undrafted, pitched in an independent league and was an Uber driver before his 2019 breakout. He entered Sunday's game with just two runs allowed in 20 innings this season and had given up just one home run in 48 1/3 innings in the majors.

Dozier greeted him with a two-out, opposite-field homer in the first, and Gordon followed with another solo shot in the second. Dobnak retired the next 11 batters he faced.

''I was frustrated for like a split second and then I'm like, 'OK, let's keep moving on,''' Dobnak said. ''I'm going to keep challenging guys. I'm not going to be afraid to throw any pitch at any time really. Results are going to vary, obviously, and the best to those two, I guess.''

Avila walked to start the third. He went to second on a wild pitch and third on a balk from Singer before scoring on a groundout. Avila walked again to start the fifth before Kepler hit his sixth homer of the year.

''It's just one or two mistakes a game and I did that again,'' Singer said. ''I'm learning, I'm still learning each and every time, which is good. You've just got to obviously take away some of the mistakes. But other than that, I felt really good.''

Tyler Clippard relieved Dobnak with two runners on in the sixth. Dozier hit a sinking liner to left field that was snagged by Eddie Rosario. Rosario doubled off Whit Merrifield from second with the runners moving on the pitch to end the inning.

Minnesota relievers entered the day facing just nine inherited runners in 21 games. Only the St. Louis Cardinals, limited to seven games due to a coronavirus outbreak, had inherited fewer. Only one inherited runner has scored against Twins relievers this season.

Jorge Soler struck out three times. He extended his streak to eight straight at-bats ending in a strikeout before singling in the seventh. Soler started the day tied for second in the majors with 30 strikeouts. Seattle's Evan White&nbsp;was the leader with 35.

Royals: C Salvador Perez was scratched from the lineup before the game due to blurry vision in his left eye. ... Right-hander Jakob Junis&nbsp;was placed on the injured list, retroactive to Aug. 13, with lower back spasms. Junis was scheduled to be the primary pitcher in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader but was scratched with back spasms and low back discomfort. C Meibrys Viloria was recalled and started Sunday in place of Perez.

Twins: Baldelli said that LHP Rich Hill is likely to slot in one of the three games in the upcoming series against Milwaukee. Hill has been out since July 31 with left shoulder fatigue.

Rookie LHP Kris Bubic (0-2, 5.40 ERA) will start the series finale for Kansas City on Monday. Minnesota will use right-handed reliever Matt Wisler (0-1, 1.80) to start the game as an opener. Bubic, a first-round pick in 2018, will be making his fourth career start. He gave up five runs in five innings at Cincinnati in his previous outing.

By The Associated PressMINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Max Kepler&nbsp;hit a two-run homer to support another strong start from Randy Dognak, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals&nbsp;4-2 on Sunday.Dobnak, the surprise right-hander who was promoted four levels last season before making a postseason start, continued his impressive run in 2020 with two runs allowed, both on solo homers, in 5 1/3 innings. Dobnak (4-1) gave up just three hits, while his ERA rose from a majors-best 0.90 to 1.42.''This is just more of what we've seen,'' Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said. ''We've seen great outing after great outing.''Alex Avila doubled, walked twice and scored a pair of runs for Minnesota, which has won four of six after being swept in Kansas City last week. Sergio Romo&nbsp;collected his third save.Rookie Brady Singer&nbsp;(1-2) allowed three runs and four hits in 5 2/3 innings for the Royals. Hunter Dozier and Alex Gordon&nbsp;each hit solo home runs to give Kansas City a 2-0 lead after two innings.After the game ended, the Royals bench was visibly upset and third base coach Vance Wilson was pointing and yelling. Kansas City manager Mike Matheny said the Twins were taunting his ball club, and some Royals took offense.''I think what you're seeing is the result of being able to hear everything each bench says,'' Matheny said. ''Can't take emotions out of this game either and a little taunting to our sides and the boys didn't like it a whole lot.''Dobnak was undrafted, pitched in an independent league and was an Uber driver before his 2019 breakout. He entered Sunday's game with just two runs allowed in 20 innings this season and had given up just one home run in 48 1/3 innings in the majors.Dozier greeted him with a two-out, opposite-field homer in the first, and Gordon followed with another solo shot in the second. Dobnak retired the next 11 batters he faced.''I was frustrated for like a split second and then I'm like, 'OK, let's keep moving on,''' Dobnak said. ''I'm going to keep challenging guys. I'm not going to be afraid to throw any pitch at any time really. Results are going to vary, obviously, and the best to those two, I guess.''Avila walked to start the third. He went to second on a wild pitch and third on a balk from Singer before scoring on a groundout. Avila walked again to start the fifth before Kepler hit his sixth homer of the year.''It's just one or two mistakes a game and I did that again,'' Singer said. ''I'm learning, I'm still learning each and every time, which is good. You've just got to obviously take away some of the mistakes. But other than that, I felt really good.''RARE TROUBLETyler Clippard relieved Dobnak with two runners on in the sixth. Dozier hit a sinking liner to left field that was snagged by Eddie Rosario. Rosario doubled off Whit Merrifield from second with the runners moving on the pitch to end the inning.Minnesota relievers entered the day facing just nine inherited runners in 21 games. Only the St. Louis Cardinals, limited to seven games due to a coronavirus outbreak, had inherited fewer. Only one inherited runner has scored against Twins relievers this season.STUCK IN A RUTJorge Soler struck out three times. He extended his streak to eight straight at-bats ending in a strikeout before singling in the seventh. Soler started the day tied for second in the majors with 30 strikeouts. Seattle's Evan White&nbsp;was the leader with 35.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: C Salvador Perez was scratched from the lineup before the game due to blurry vision in his left eye. ... Right-hander Jakob Junis&nbsp;was placed on the injured list, retroactive to Aug. 13, with lower back spasms. Junis was scheduled to be the primary pitcher in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader but was scratched with back spasms and low back discomfort. C Meibrys Viloria was recalled and started Sunday in place of Perez.Twins: Baldelli said that LHP Rich Hill is likely to slot in one of the three games in the upcoming series against Milwaukee. Hill has been out since July 31 with left shoulder fatigue.UP NEXTRookie LHP Kris Bubic (0-2, 5.40 ERA) will start the series finale for Kansas City on Monday. Minnesota will use right-handed reliever Matt Wisler (0-1, 1.80) to start the game as an opener. Bubic, a first-round pick in 2018, will be making his fourth career start. He gave up five runs in five innings at Cincinnati in his previous outing.

Kepler homers, Dobnak keeps rolling; Twins beat Royals

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Whit Merrifield&nbsp;&nbsp;had three hits, including a three-run homer, to back Danny Duffy's&nbsp;strong start as the Kansas City ls&nbsp;came back to beat the Minnesots Twins&nbsp;4-2 and split Saturday's doubleheader.

Duffy (1-2) allowed two runs - one earned - on two hits in five innings. He struck out eight for Kansas City, which has won six of its past eight games, including a home sweep of Minnesota last week. Trevor Rosenthal&nbsp;issued a leadoff walk in the seventh but struck out the next three batters for his fifth save.

''We needed that from Duff right there,'' said Royals manager Mike Matheny, who earned his 600th win as a manager. ''We needed him to get through five for us. He really showed something to us that last inning coming through and giving us an opportunity to get in there and hand the ball off to (Josh Staumont) and Rosy.''

Nelson Cruz homered in both games&nbsp;of the doubleheader and now has 407 career home runs, tying Duke Snider for 56th on the all-time list. The Twins won Saturday's first game 4-2 as Cruz had a pair of hits.

In the second game, Merrifield lined a pitch into the left-field bleachers after Minnesota starter Jose Berrios (1-3) walked two batters earlier in the inning.

''This is the second time we're seeing Berrios in a row,'' Merrifield said. ''Familiar with him, familiar with all of his pitches, seen all his pitches these last however many at-bats I've had. ... So, I saw a changeup out of his hand and it was a good pitch for me to hit.''

Berrios gave up four runs in four innings. He surrendered five hits, tied a season-high with four walks and struck out six. He's given up eight runs in 9 1/3 innings in his past two starts, both coming against the Royals.

''Honestly I don't feel really far (off),'' Berrios said of his pitches. ''If I minimize the walk, I would be in better position. ... I want to take that positive step.''

Duffy, who entered the game with the third-best ERA among Twins' opponent starters with at least 100 innings pitched since 2011, was rarely in trouble.

Minnesota scored once in the first following an error. Duffy retired 14 of 15 batters at one point, interrupted only by Cruz's sixth homer of the season that went off the facing of the second deck in straightaway center field.

''We never really got anything going,'' Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said. ''We have to give ourselves a little pat and say 'That's on us, we have to give ourselves better at bats to give ourselves a chance.''

Ian Kennedy&nbsp;started for the Royals and pitched two innings as the opener, his first start since Sept. 28, 2018.

''Going in today, it just went right back into that starter routine I've literally done my entire life,'' Kennedy said. ''You have that routine for eight, nine years in big leagues. Last year, I had different routine. This year, I have a new routine.''

Jake Odorizzi&nbsp;was sharp early in his second start of the season following back trouble. He didn't allow a hit until Salvador Perez singled with two outs in the fourth and struck out six in the game.

''I felt much better today, much more stronger, more like myself,'' Odorizzi said. ''So, that's encouraging. I've still got a little ways to go. Today was definitely a big step in the right direction.''

Saturday marked the first doubleheader of the season for Minnesota and the Royals after severe weather postponed Friday's series opener. All doubleheaders in Major League Baseball during this virus-shortened 60-game season are seven-inning games.

''First time I've played a seven-inning game since probably the minor leagues when you play a doubleheader,'' Kennedy said. ''You kind of catch yourself, it's the fifth inning, you're facing the back end of the bullpen (it's time to get going).''

Royals: RHP Jake Junis was scheduled to follow Kennedy and be the game's primary pitcher, but he was shut down while warming up in the bullpen. The team announced that Junis had back spasms and low back discomfort.

Twins: 3B JJosh Donaldson&nbsp;missed his 12th straight game with a strained calf and doesn't sound close to rejoining the team. Chief Baseball Officer Derek Falvey said Friday that the team is going to be careful in regard to Donaldson's injury. He's dealt with similar nagging injuries in the past.

Minnesota's surprise right-hander Randy Dobnak (3-1, 0.90 ERA) starts Sunday for the Twins. Kansas City counters with rookie RHP Brady Singer (1-1, 4.50). Dobnak has allowed two runs in 20 innings over four starts this season. Singer, the Royals' first-round draft pick in 2018, earned his first major league win last week against Minnesota when he gave up two runs in five innings.

By The Associated PressMINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Whit Merrifield&nbsp;&nbsp;had three hits, including a three-run homer, to back Danny Duffy's&nbsp;strong start as the Kansas City ls&nbsp;came back to beat the Minnesots Twins&nbsp;4-2 and split Saturday's doubleheader.Duffy (1-2) allowed two runs - one earned - on two hits in five innings. He struck out eight for Kansas City, which has won six of its past eight games, including a home sweep of Minnesota last week. Trevor Rosenthal&nbsp;issued a leadoff walk in the seventh but struck out the next three batters for his fifth save.''We needed that from Duff right there,'' said Royals manager Mike Matheny, who earned his 600th win as a manager. ''We needed him to get through five for us. He really showed something to us that last inning coming through and giving us an opportunity to get in there and hand the ball off to (Josh Staumont) and Rosy.''Nelson Cruz homered in both games&nbsp;of the doubleheader and now has 407 career home runs, tying Duke Snider for 56th on the all-time list. The Twins won Saturday's first game 4-2 as Cruz had a pair of hits.In the second game, Merrifield lined a pitch into the left-field bleachers after Minnesota starter Jose Berrios (1-3) walked two batters earlier in the inning.''This is the second time we're seeing Berrios in a row,'' Merrifield said. ''Familiar with him, familiar with all of his pitches, seen all his pitches these last however many at-bats I've had. ... So, I saw a changeup out of his hand and it was a good pitch for me to hit.''Berrios gave up four runs in four innings. He surrendered five hits, tied a season-high with four walks and struck out six. He's given up eight runs in 9 1/3 innings in his past two starts, both coming against the Royals.''Honestly I don't feel really far (off),'' Berrios said of his pitches. ''If I minimize the walk, I would be in better position. ... I want to take that positive step.''Duffy, who entered the game with the third-best ERA among Twins' opponent starters with at least 100 innings pitched since 2011, was rarely in trouble.Minnesota scored once in the first following an error. Duffy retired 14 of 15 batters at one point, interrupted only by Cruz's sixth homer of the season that went off the facing of the second deck in straightaway center field.''We never really got anything going,'' Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said. ''We have to give ourselves a little pat and say 'That's on us, we have to give ourselves better at bats to give ourselves a chance.''FIRST GAME STARTERSIan Kennedy&nbsp;started for the Royals and pitched two innings as the opener, his first start since Sept. 28, 2018.''Going in today, it just went right back into that starter routine I've literally done my entire life,'' Kennedy said. ''You have that routine for eight, nine years in big leagues. Last year, I had different routine. This year, I have a new routine.''Jake Odorizzi&nbsp;was sharp early in his second start of the season following back trouble. He didn't allow a hit until Salvador Perez singled with two outs in the fourth and struck out six in the game.''I felt much better today, much more stronger, more like myself,'' Odorizzi said. ''So, that's encouraging. I've still got a little ways to go. Today was definitely a big step in the right direction.''FIRST TASTESaturday marked the first doubleheader of the season for Minnesota and the Royals after severe weather postponed Friday's series opener. All doubleheaders in Major League Baseball during this virus-shortened 60-game season are seven-inning games.''First time I've played a seven-inning game since probably the minor leagues when you play a doubleheader,'' Kennedy said. ''You kind of catch yourself, it's the fifth inning, you're facing the back end of the bullpen (it's time to get going).''TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: RHP Jake Junis was scheduled to follow Kennedy and be the game's primary pitcher, but he was shut down while warming up in the bullpen. The team announced that Junis had back spasms and low back discomfort.Twins: 3B JJosh Donaldson&nbsp;missed his 12th straight game with a strained calf and doesn't sound close to rejoining the team. Chief Baseball Officer Derek Falvey said Friday that the team is going to be careful in regard to Donaldson's injury. He's dealt with similar nagging injuries in the past.UP NEXTMinnesota's surprise right-hander Randy Dobnak (3-1, 0.90 ERA) starts Sunday for the Twins. Kansas City counters with rookie RHP Brady Singer (1-1, 4.50). Dobnak has allowed two runs in 20 innings over four starts this season. Singer, the Royals' first-round draft pick in 2018, earned his first major league win last week against Minnesota when he gave up two runs in five innings.

Merrifield homers; Royals beat Twins, split doubleheader

MINNEAPOLIS — Nelson Cruz hit a two-run homer and the Minnesota Twins held on to beat the Kansas City Royals 4-2 in the first game of Saturday’s doubleheader.

Tyler Duffey (1-0) earned the win with a perfect inning in relief of Jake Odorizzi. Taylor Rogers picked up his fifth save in six chances for Minnesota, which was swept in Kansas City last week.

Gabe Speier (0-1) surrendered one while getting two outs for the Royals. Ian Kennedy started and pitched two innings as the opener, his first start since Sept. 28, 2018.

“Going in today, it just went right back into that starter routine I’ve literally done my entire life,” Kennedy said. “You have that routine for eight, nine years in big leagues. Last year, I had different routine. This year, I have a new routine.”

Odorizzi was sharp early in his second start of the season following back trouble. He didn’t allow a hit until Salvador Perez singled with two outs in the fourth and struck out six in the game.

“I felt much better today, much more stronger, more like myself,” Odorizzi said. “So, that’s encouraging. I’ve still got a little ways to go. Today was definitely a big step in the right direction.”

Ryan McBroom doubled into the right-field corner to start the fifth. The play was originally ruled foul but a video review showed the ball landed just inside the line as Max Kepler slid trying to make the catch. Kepler threw the ball into the empty stands after the foul call, but Kansas City challenged the play, and McBroom was awarded second base.

Maikel Franco followed with his fifth homer of the season, ending Odorizzi’s day.

“It’s tough because as a competitor I’m frustrated just because my last pitch today was the worst one at the worst time, and had the worst result,” Odorizzi said.

Cruz continued to be the driving force behind the Twins’ offense. He hit a long home run off the facing off the third deck in left field in the third for his fifth homer of the season and 406th of his career. Cruz is one home run behind Duke Snider for 56th all-time.

Cruz nearly added a second homer in the fifth. His line shot appeared ready to clear the wall, but left fielder Alex Gordon pulled the ball back before it flipped out of his glove and onto the grass for a double.

Saturday marked the first doubleheader of the season for Minnesota and the Royals after severe weather postponed Friday’s series opener. All doubleheaders in Major League Baseball during this virus-shortened 60-game season are seven-inning games.

“First time I’ve played a seven-inning game since probably the minor leagues when you play a doubleheader,” Kennedy said. “You kind of catch yourself, it’s the fifth inning, you’re facing the back end of the bullpen (it’s time to get going).”

Royals: RHP Jake Junis was scheduled to follow Kennedy and be the game’s primary pitcher, but he was shut down while warming up in the bullpen. The team announced that Junis had back spasms and low back discomfort.

Twins: 3B Josh Donaldson missed his 12th straight game with a strained calf and doesn’t sound close to rejoining the team. Chief Baseball Officer Derek Falvey said Friday that the team is going to be careful in regard to Donaldson’s injury. He’s dealt with similar nagging injuries in the past.

The second game of the doubleheader will see LHP Danny Duffy (0-2, 5.12 ERA) taking the mound for Kansas City. RHP José Berríos (0-2, 5.31) pitches for Minnesota. Duffy will be making his 10th career start at Target Field, tied for the sixth-most of any opponent starter. Berríos gave up four runs in 5 1/3 innings in a loss at Kansas City last week.

By The Associated PressMINNEAPOLIS — Nelson Cruz hit a two-run homer and the Minnesota Twins held on to beat the Kansas City Royals 4-2 in the first game of Saturday’s doubleheader.Tyler Duffey (1-0) earned the win with a perfect inning in relief of Jake Odorizzi. Taylor Rogers picked up his fifth save in six chances for Minnesota, which was swept in Kansas City last week.Gabe Speier (0-1) surrendered one while getting two outs for the Royals. Ian Kennedy started and pitched two innings as the opener, his first start since Sept. 28, 2018.“Going in today, it just went right back into that starter routine I’ve literally done my entire life,” Kennedy said. “You have that routine for eight, nine years in big leagues. Last year, I had different routine. This year, I have a new routine.”Odorizzi was sharp early in his second start of the season following back trouble. He didn’t allow a hit until Salvador Perez singled with two outs in the fourth and struck out six in the game.“I felt much better today, much more stronger, more like myself,” Odorizzi said. “So, that’s encouraging. I’ve still got a little ways to go. Today was definitely a big step in the right direction.”His day unraveled quickly, though.Ryan McBroom doubled into the right-field corner to start the fifth. The play was originally ruled foul but a video review showed the ball landed just inside the line as Max Kepler slid trying to make the catch. Kepler threw the ball into the empty stands after the foul call, but Kansas City challenged the play, and McBroom was awarded second base.Maikel Franco followed with his fifth homer of the season, ending Odorizzi’s day.“It’s tough because as a competitor I’m frustrated just because my last pitch today was the worst one at the worst time, and had the worst result,” Odorizzi said.Cruz continued to be the driving force behind the Twins’ offense. He hit a long home run off the facing off the third deck in left field in the third for his fifth homer of the season and 406th of his career. Cruz is one home run behind Duke Snider for 56th all-time.Cruz nearly added a second homer in the fifth. His line shot appeared ready to clear the wall, but left fielder Alex Gordon pulled the ball back before it flipped out of his glove and onto the grass for a double.FIRST TASTESaturday marked the first doubleheader of the season for Minnesota and the Royals after severe weather postponed Friday’s series opener. All doubleheaders in Major League Baseball during this virus-shortened 60-game season are seven-inning games.“First time I’ve played a seven-inning game since probably the minor leagues when you play a doubleheader,” Kennedy said. “You kind of catch yourself, it’s the fifth inning, you’re facing the back end of the bullpen (it’s time to get going).”TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: RHP Jake Junis was scheduled to follow Kennedy and be the game’s primary pitcher, but he was shut down while warming up in the bullpen. The team announced that Junis had back spasms and low back discomfort.Twins: 3B Josh Donaldson missed his 12th straight game with a strained calf and doesn’t sound close to rejoining the team. Chief Baseball Officer Derek Falvey said Friday that the team is going to be careful in regard to Donaldson’s injury. He’s dealt with similar nagging injuries in the past.UP NEXTThe second game of the doubleheader will see LHP Danny Duffy (0-2, 5.12 ERA) taking the mound for Kansas City. RHP José Berríos (0-2, 5.31) pitches for Minnesota. Duffy will be making his 10th career start at Target Field, tied for the sixth-most of any opponent starter. Berríos gave up four runs in 5 1/3 innings in a loss at Kansas City last week.

Cruz homers, Twins beat Royals to open doubleheader

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The Minnesota Twins postponed their game against the Kansas City Royals on Friday night because of stormy weather, scheduling a straight doubleheader on Saturday instead to start the series.

With darkened skies above Target Field and a steady rain just beginning to fall, the Twins called off the game right around the scheduled first pitch. About an hour later, a tornado warning was issued for Hennepin County

This was Minnesota's first postponed game of the 2020 season that began four months late due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Twins and Royals will continue their four-game series on Sunday and Monday. The Royals swept a three-game set from the Twins in Kansas City last weekend.

The doubleheader will start on Saturday at 12:35 p.m., with the second half of the twinbill scheduled to begin 30 minutes following the end of the first game. All doubleheaders in Major League Baseball during this virus-shortened 60-game season are seven-inning games.

To accommodate the St. Louis Cardinals, who haven't played since July 29 at Minnesota before COVID-19 spread through the organization, the Twins were scheduled for a twinbill at St. Louis on Sept. 8 to take care of their two-game series with the Cardinals in one day.

"In a doubleheader context, I'm open-minded to this," Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey said earlier on Friday. He added: "The idea of us playing a little bit shorter, I would be open to personally."

Prior to the game, the Royals activated center fielder Bubba Starling from the injured list after nine days on the shelf. Starling didn't feel well, so the club erred on the side of COVID-19 caution by putting him on the IL. He had symptoms that raised concern about the virus, but he was not infected.

"Just a cold," Starling said. "It took me some days to get over it, but I'm feeling good now."

Jake Odorizzi was scheduled to start for the Twins on Friday. The Royals were planning to use Ian Kennedy as an opener, followed by Jakob Junis as the primary pitcher.

The Twins will send Odorizzi to the mound for the first game on Saturday, followed by Jose Berrios. Kennedy will open for the Royals, and Danny Duffy will take the second game.

Kennedy will make his first start since Sept. 28, 2018, a 687-day span. The 35-year-old right-hander, who became the closer last season, has 289 career major league starts. This will be the first time the Royals use an opener followed by a designated primary pitcher, though they have used relievers to start games a handful of times.

Odorizzi will make his second start of the season, after a delay due to back trouble. The Twins have carefully tread through the schedule with some minor injuries to their rotation, with Rich Hill and Homer Bailey still on the injured list. Hill threw a 60-pitch bullpen session at the team's alternate training site in St. Paul, and manager Rocco Baldelli said he expected Hill to start a game in the coming week.

The greater concern for the Twins is prized acquisition Josh Donaldson and his strained calf, which has kept him out for 11 games and counting. That injury has nagged the third baseman in the past.

"We're going to be careful here," Falvey said.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The Minnesota Twins postponed their game against the Kansas City Royals on Friday night because of stormy weather, scheduling a straight doubleheader on Saturday instead to start the series.With darkened skies above Target Field and a steady rain just beginning to fall, the Twins called off the game right around the scheduled first pitch. About an hour later, a tornado warning was issued for Hennepin CountyThis was Minnesota's first postponed game of the 2020 season that began four months late due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Twins and Royals will continue their four-game series on Sunday and Monday. The Royals swept a three-game set from the Twins in Kansas City last weekend.The doubleheader will start on Saturday at 12:35 p.m., with the second half of the twinbill scheduled to begin 30 minutes following the end of the first game. All doubleheaders in Major League Baseball during this virus-shortened 60-game season are seven-inning games.To accommodate the St. Louis Cardinals, who haven't played since July 29 at Minnesota before COVID-19 spread through the organization, the Twins were scheduled for a twinbill at St. Louis on Sept. 8 to take care of their two-game series with the Cardinals in one day."In a doubleheader context, I'm open-minded to this," Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey said earlier on Friday. He added: "The idea of us playing a little bit shorter, I would be open to personally."Prior to the game, the Royals activated center fielder Bubba Starling from the injured list after nine days on the shelf. Starling didn't feel well, so the club erred on the side of COVID-19 caution by putting him on the IL. He had symptoms that raised concern about the virus, but he was not infected."Just a cold," Starling said. "It took me some days to get over it, but I'm feeling good now."Jake Odorizzi was scheduled to start for the Twins on Friday. The Royals were planning to use Ian Kennedy as an opener, followed by Jakob Junis as the primary pitcher.The Twins will send Odorizzi to the mound for the first game on Saturday, followed by Jose Berrios. Kennedy will open for the Royals, and Danny Duffy will take the second game.Kennedy will make his first start since Sept. 28, 2018, a 687-day span. The 35-year-old right-hander, who became the closer last season, has 289 career major league starts. This will be the first time the Royals use an opener followed by a designated primary pitcher, though they have used relievers to start games a handful of times.Odorizzi will make his second start of the season, after a delay due to back trouble. The Twins have carefully tread through the schedule with some minor injuries to their rotation, with Rich Hill and Homer Bailey still on the injured list. Hill threw a 60-pitch bullpen session at the team's alternate training site in St. Paul, and manager Rocco Baldelli said he expected Hill to start a game in the coming week.The greater concern for the Twins is prized acquisition Josh Donaldson and his strained calf, which has kept him out for 11 games and counting. That injury has nagged the third baseman in the past."We're going to be careful here," Falvey said.

Royals-Twins opener postponed by rain; doubleheader Saturday

LAWRENCE, KAN. - Kansas football will host the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium for its season-opener on Sept. 12, Kansas Athletics announced today.

The game will serve as Kansas’ non-conference game, replacing its previously schedule contest against Southern Illinois, originally scheduled for Aug. 29. Kansas was originally scheduled to play at Coastal Carolina in Conway, S.C. on Sept. 26, but will instead make a trip to play the Chanticleers in 2021.

Overall, KU stands 5-2 in its seven contests against the Sun Belt Conference, while the Sept. 12 matchup is the second in the series history between Kansas and Coastal Carolina. The Jayhawks fell to the Chanticleers in the program’s first matchup a season ago, 7-12.

The Jayhawks are 1-1 all-time in games played on Sept. 12, defeating Washington State in 1970, 48-31.

After hosting Coastal Carolina, the Jayhawks will begin Big 12 Conference competition by traveling to take on the Baylor Bears on Sept. 26.

LAWRENCE, KAN. - Kansas football will host the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium for its season-opener on Sept. 12, Kansas Athletics announced today.The game will serve as Kansas’ non-conference game, replacing its previously schedule contest against Southern Illinois, originally scheduled for Aug. 29. Kansas was originally scheduled to play at Coastal Carolina in Conway, S.C. on Sept. 26, but will instead make a trip to play the Chanticleers in 2021.Overall, KU stands 5-2 in its seven contests against the Sun Belt Conference, while the Sept. 12 matchup is the second in the series history between Kansas and Coastal Carolina. The Jayhawks fell to the Chanticleers in the program’s first matchup a season ago, 7-12.The Jayhawks are 1-1 all-time in games played on Sept. 12, defeating Washington State in 1970, 48-31.After hosting Coastal Carolina, the Jayhawks will begin Big 12 Conference competition by traveling to take on the Baylor Bears on Sept. 26.Kansas Athletics

KU football to host Coastal Carolina in season opener September 12

Fort Hays State Athletic Director Curtis Hammeke discusses Friday's decision by the MIAA to suspend fall sports until January 1, 2021.

Fort Hays State Athletic Director Curtis Hammeke discusses Friday's decision by the MIAA to suspend fall sports until January 1, 2021.<div><iframe title="Curtis Hammeke" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/cfb79-e72494?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: Curtis Hammeke on FHSU fall sports

Dustin Armbruster, play-by-play voice of the Hays High Indians sat down with HHS Activities Director Lance Krannawitter to discuss how the school is planning to handle the start of fall sports practice on Monday.

Dustin Armbruster, play-by-play voice of the Hays High Indians sat down with HHS Activities Director Lance Krannawitter to discuss how the school is planning to handle the start of fall sports practice on Monday.<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/875926099&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/lance-krannawitter-8-12-20" title="Hays High Activities Director Lance Krannawitter" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High Activities Director Lance Krannawitter</a></div></div>

Krannawitter addresses how HHS will handle the start of fall sports practice

MIAA Approves Actions For Fall Sports and Campus Sport Activities, Decision on Winter Sports Schedules by October 1

KANSAS CITY, Mo. —&nbsp;The MIAA CEO Council has announced emergency action for the Association and its member institutions in regard to the 2020-2021 athletic seasons and campus sport activities.&nbsp; The emergency action comes as a result of the COVID-19 Global Health Pandemic, the NCAA announcement to cancel Fall National Championships, and the recently released NCAA Board of Governors’ directives regarding the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/resocialization-collegiate-sport-developing-standards-practice-and-competition">Resocialization of Collegiate Sport.</a> All MIAA fall sport competitions will be suspended until January 1, 2021. The Association will continue to explore the possibility of a limited number of competitions in football, volleyball, men's soccer, and women’s soccer in the spring, as permitted by the NCAA.&nbsp; The Conference office has also canceled the 2020 MIAA Virtual Football Media Day presented by Seigfreid Bingham in light of the suspension of the MIAA football schedule. “The health and well-being of MIAA student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and our communities continues to be the Association's top priority,” stated President Steve Scott of Pittsburg State University, chairperson of the MIAA CEO Council. “The MIAA is taking these important actions today to help our athletic departments comply with these new NCAA membership requirements, and to assist our campuses as we continue to address this public health crisis.” All NCAA athletically related activities (in all MIAA sports), including in-season practices, out-of-season practices, weight training, team athletically related meetings, and voluntary workouts directed by staff or in institutional facilities shall be permitted this fall based on each institution’s ability to comply with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/requirements-each-division-related-conduct-fall-sports-and-championships-faqs">August 11th NCAA Policy Clarifications</a>&nbsp;document regarding the requirements for each division to conduct fall sports (non-competition) activities.&nbsp; The Association will delay a decision on the winter sports competition schedule until October 1 at the latest.&nbsp; “The MIAA CEO Council will continue to monitor this fluid and evolving situation for college athletics, and make necessary changes to this plan per updated NCAA guidance and restrictions,” added MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy. MIAA leadership at member institutions will continue to work together and seek guidance from the NCAA on the NCAA Board of Governors’ directives and the Resocialization of Collegiate Sport Guidelines.&nbsp; The Association will continue to place the health, safety, and well-being of MIAA student-athletes, coaches, and administrators as its top priority.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>MIAA Approves Actions For Fall Sports and Campus Sport Activities, Decision on Winter Sports Schedules by October 1</h2>KANSAS CITY, Mo. —&nbsp;The MIAA CEO Council has announced emergency action for the Association and its member institutions in regard to the 2020-2021 athletic seasons and campus sport activities.&nbsp; The emergency action comes as a result of the COVID-19 Global Health Pandemic, the NCAA announcement to cancel Fall National Championships, and the recently released NCAA Board of Governors’ directives regarding the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/resocialization-collegiate-sport-developing-standards-practice-and-competition">Resocialization of Collegiate Sport.</a> All MIAA fall sport competitions will be suspended until January 1, 2021. The Association will continue to explore the possibility of a limited number of competitions in football, volleyball, men's soccer, and women’s soccer in the spring, as permitted by the NCAA.&nbsp; The Conference office has also canceled the 2020 MIAA Virtual Football Media Day presented by Seigfreid Bingham in light of the suspension of the MIAA football schedule. “The health and well-being of MIAA student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and our communities continues to be the Association's top priority,” stated President Steve Scott of Pittsburg State University, chairperson of the MIAA CEO Council. “The MIAA is taking these important actions today to help our athletic departments comply with these new NCAA membership requirements, and to assist our campuses as we continue to address this public health crisis.” All NCAA athletically related activities (in all MIAA sports), including in-season practices, out-of-season practices, weight training, team athletically related meetings, and voluntary workouts directed by staff or in institutional facilities shall be permitted this fall based on each institution’s ability to comply with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/requirements-each-division-related-conduct-fall-sports-and-championships-faqs">August 11th NCAA Policy Clarifications</a>&nbsp;document regarding the requirements for each division to conduct fall sports (non-competition) activities.&nbsp; The Association will delay a decision on the winter sports competition schedule until October 1 at the latest.&nbsp; “The MIAA CEO Council will continue to monitor this fluid and evolving situation for college athletics, and make necessary changes to this plan per updated NCAA guidance and restrictions,” added MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy. MIAA leadership at member institutions will continue to work together and seek guidance from the NCAA on the NCAA Board of Governors’ directives and the Resocialization of Collegiate Sport Guidelines.&nbsp; The Association will continue to place the health, safety, and well-being of MIAA student-athletes, coaches, and administrators as its top priority.&nbsp;&nbsp;MIAA Release

MIAA postpones fall sports, decision on winter sports coming

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - The Kansas City Chiefs weren't done when they signed star quarterback Patrick Mahomes to a record-setting extension, or when they put together a pricey package to keep Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones on the line.

Now, they're shelling out more big money to keep tight end Travis Kelce in the fold.

The Chiefs and the two-time All-Pro agreed to a four-year, $57.25 million extension Thursday that will keep him with the Super Bowl champions through 2025, a person familiar with the contract told The Associated Press. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the deal had not been announced.

The deal came the same day the San Francisco 49ers and their All-Pro tight end, George Kittle, agreed to a five-year, $75 million extension, a person familiar with that contract told AP. Kittle and Kelce, who were on opposing sidelines during the Super Bowl in February, long ago established themselves as the clear-cut top two tight ends in the game.

The Chiefs rallied in the second half to win their first championship in 50 years. And as the Chiefs spent the offseason securing their core players by giving Mahomes a 10-year extension that could be worth a half-billion dollars, and Jones a four-year, $85 million deal, it left Kelce confident that it was merely the first of what could be many Super Bowls.

“The guys coming in this office, they know what this team is capable of,” he said as the Chiefs reported to training camp, which is being held at their practice facility because of the coronavirus pandemic. “It shows in what we did last year and who all we have coming back, which means we have just about every single leader that we had in this locker room.”

Kelce quickly grew into a leader after a standout college career marked by some off-the-field issues that caused his draft stock to plummet. The Chiefs selected him in the third round in 2013 and, after missing most of his rookie season because of a knee injury, he immediately moved into the lineup and became a match-up nightmare for opposing defenses.

The affable and outspoken Kelce has been voted to five consecutive Pro Bowls, and he's put together four straight 1,000-yard receiving seasons. He also has excelled under the brightest of lights, catching 10 passes for 134 yards and three TDs in a playoff win over Houston, three more passes in an AFC championship win over Tennessee, and then grabbing six passes for 43 yards and a touchdown in helping the Chiefs to a 31-20 victory over the 49ers.

“He’s athletic. I think he’s instinctive. His routes don’t look like anybody else's routes,” Titans coach Mike Vrabel said. “I mean, the route is to get open at whatever depth the quarterback wants. He can freeze guys, and then burst across the field. He’s got great catch radius. I mean, he’s tall, he’s long, he’s athletic, he’s tough, and it’s a tough challenge.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - The Kansas City Chiefs weren't done when they signed star quarterback Patrick Mahomes to a record-setting extension, or when they put together a pricey package to keep Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones on the line.Now, they're shelling out more big money to keep tight end Travis Kelce in the fold.The Chiefs and the two-time All-Pro agreed to a four-year, $57.25 million extension Thursday that will keep him with the Super Bowl champions through 2025, a person familiar with the contract told The Associated Press. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the deal had not been announced.The deal came the same day the San Francisco 49ers and their All-Pro tight end, George Kittle, agreed to a five-year, $75 million extension, a person familiar with that contract told AP. Kittle and Kelce, who were on opposing sidelines during the Super Bowl in February, long ago established themselves as the clear-cut top two tight ends in the game.The Chiefs rallied in the second half to win their first championship in 50 years. And as the Chiefs spent the offseason securing their core players by giving Mahomes a 10-year extension that could be worth a half-billion dollars, and Jones a four-year, $85 million deal, it left Kelce confident that it was merely the first of what could be many Super Bowls.“The guys coming in this office, they know what this team is capable of,” he said as the Chiefs reported to training camp, which is being held at their practice facility because of the coronavirus pandemic. “It shows in what we did last year and who all we have coming back, which means we have just about every single leader that we had in this locker room.”Kelce quickly grew into a leader after a standout college career marked by some off-the-field issues that caused his draft stock to plummet. The Chiefs selected him in the third round in 2013 and, after missing most of his rookie season because of a knee injury, he immediately moved into the lineup and became a match-up nightmare for opposing defenses.The affable and outspoken Kelce has been voted to five consecutive Pro Bowls, and he's put together four straight 1,000-yard receiving seasons. He also has excelled under the brightest of lights, catching 10 passes for 134 yards and three TDs in a playoff win over Houston, three more passes in an AFC championship win over Tennessee, and then grabbing six passes for 43 yards and a touchdown in helping the Chiefs to a 31-20 victory over the 49ers.“He’s athletic. I think he’s instinctive. His routes don’t look like anybody else's routes,” Titans coach Mike Vrabel said. “I mean, the route is to get open at whatever depth the quarterback wants. He can freeze guys, and then burst across the field. He’s got great catch radius. I mean, he’s tall, he’s long, he’s athletic, he’s tough, and it’s a tough challenge.”

Chiefs, Kelce agree to 4-year, $57.25M extension

UNDATED (AP) - The NCAA will not conduct fall championship events - a move that does not affect major college football - because not enough schools are competing in sports such as men’s and women’s soccer and women’s volleyball.

NCAA President Mark Emmert made the announcement in a video posted on Twitter, although it has been clear this was coming as conferences canceled fall sports seasons because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The decision comes after The Big Sky, West Coast and Southern conferences announced Thursday that they are the latest Division I leagues to postpone its fall sports schedule.

Emmert said the NCAA would prioritize staging championships in winter and spring sports because those — including the NCAA basketball tournaments— were canceled when COVID-19 first spiked across the United States in March.

Last week the NCAA Board of Governors said championship events in a sport would canceled if fewer than 50% of the teams competing in that sports played a regular season.

UNDATED (AP) - The NCAA will not conduct fall championship events - a move that does not affect major college football - because not enough schools are competing in sports such as men’s and women’s soccer and women’s volleyball.NCAA President Mark Emmert made the announcement in a video posted on Twitter, although it has been clear this was coming as conferences canceled fall sports seasons because of the coronavirus pandemic.The decision comes after The Big Sky, West Coast and Southern conferences announced Thursday that they are the latest Division I leagues to postpone its fall sports schedule.Emmert said the NCAA would prioritize staging championships in winter and spring sports because those — including the NCAA basketball tournaments— were canceled when COVID-19 first spiked across the United States in March.Last week the NCAA Board of Governors said championship events in a sport would canceled if fewer than 50% of the teams competing in that sports played a regular season.

NCAA cancels fall championships as major football marches on

Gary Garner joins this week's Defend the Fort Podcast to talk about his time as the Tiger's head men's basketball coach including the 1996 NCAA II undefeated national championship season.

Gary Garner joins this week's Defend the Fort Podcast to talk about his time as the Tiger's head men's basketball coach including the 1996 NCAA II undefeated national championship season.<div><iframe title="Gary Garner" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/awq6g-e6eef2?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: Gary Garner

CINCINNATI (AP) - Bases loaded, one out, another close game on the verge of slipping away. The strain showed on Mike Matheny's face in the ninth inning -- not that anyone could tell.

Salvador Perez had three more hits, and Kansas City's bullpen barely held on for a 5-4 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday that had everyone's blood pressure up at the end.

"It got a little elevated, I'll admit," Matheny said. "The masks -- that's one of the benefits of these things. They hide how you're feeling at this time."

The Royals were squirming when Trevor Rosenthal walked the bases loaded with one out in the ninth. Christian Colon -- whose single in the 12th inning sent the Royals over the Mets in the 2015 World Series -- grounded into a double play to end it.

The Royals have won five out of six, walking that tightrope much of the time. Kansas City has already played eight one-run games, going 3-5. Twelve of their 19 games have been decided by two runs or less.

"That inning is such a microcosm of how our last couple weeks have been going," said Rosenthal, who got his fourth save in as many chances. "We've just been fighting so hard."

The Reds wasted a chance to get back to .500 and had their only left-handed starter leave in the second inning again.

Wade Miley (0-2) signed a two-year, $15 million deal in the offseason. He retired only five batters during his Reds debut, giving up six runs in a loss to the Cubs on July 27, and went on the injured list with a strained groin afterward.

Miley appeared to hurt himself when he stepped awkwardly while covering first base in the second inning Wednesday. After talking to a trainer, Miley stayed in the game, walked the next batter and was removed after only 43 pitches.

Miley said he left because of how he was struggling with his control.

"I guess they thought I landed on the bag funny, but I was completely fine there," Miley said.

The Royals' offense has led the way during the surge. It scored one run at a time to keep it going, led by Perez's homer, double and single.

Brad Keller (2-0) allowed two singles in six shutout innings. He was acquired from Cincinnati in the 2017 Rule 5 Draft.

Jesse Winker, Freddy Galvis and Josh VanMeter homered in the seventh, cutting it to 5-4. Josh Staumont escaped a two-on threat in the eighth with a pair of called third strikes, and Rosenthal provided the final drama.

Perez connected for his fourth homer off Tyler Mahle, extending his hitting streak to 10 games -- his longest since 2017. He's batting .429 (18 for 42) during the streak.

The Royals are 17-10 all-time vs. the Reds, including 12-4 since the start of 2009. They're 8-4 at Great American Ball Park, the best mark by a team with at least 10 games.

Matheny's next win will be his 600th as a manager. He'll join Dusty Baker, Terry Francona, Joe Maddon, Bob Melvin, Ron Gardenhire, Joe Girardi, Bud Black and Don Mattingly as active managers with 600.

The game was delayed 17 minutes in the bottom of the first inning when plate umpire Chris Conroy took a foul off his right hand, breaking the ring finger. Crew chief Jeff Nelson moved behind the plate for the next two innings, and Conroy returned and worked third base with his finger bandaged.

Royals: Adalberto Mondesi was hit in the right arm by a pitch in the fourth but stayed in the game.

Reds: Miley was reinstated from the 10-day injured list pregame and right-hander Joel Kuhnel was optioned.

Royals: After a day off, KC opens a series in Minneapolis. Jakob Junis (0-0) faces the Twins for the second time in a week. He allowed two solo homers in 4 2/3 innings last Friday. Junis is trying for his first win in five starts.

Reds: Anthony DeSclafani (1-0) opens a four-game series against the Pirates. He's 0-4 in his last six starts against Pittsburgh, with the Reds losing all six games.

CINCINNATI (AP) - Bases loaded, one out, another close game on the verge of slipping away. The strain showed on Mike Matheny's face in the ninth inning -- not that anyone could tell.Salvador Perez had three more hits, and Kansas City's bullpen barely held on for a 5-4 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday that had everyone's blood pressure up at the end."It got a little elevated, I'll admit," Matheny said. "The masks -- that's one of the benefits of these things. They hide how you're feeling at this time."The Royals were squirming when Trevor Rosenthal walked the bases loaded with one out in the ninth. Christian Colon -- whose single in the 12th inning sent the Royals over the Mets in the 2015 World Series -- grounded into a double play to end it.The Royals have won five out of six, walking that tightrope much of the time. Kansas City has already played eight one-run games, going 3-5. Twelve of their 19 games have been decided by two runs or less."That inning is such a microcosm of how our last couple weeks have been going," said Rosenthal, who got his fourth save in as many chances. "We've just been fighting so hard."The Reds wasted a chance to get back to .500 and had their only left-handed starter leave in the second inning again.Wade Miley (0-2) signed a two-year, $15 million deal in the offseason. He retired only five batters during his Reds debut, giving up six runs in a loss to the Cubs on July 27, and went on the injured list with a strained groin afterward.Miley appeared to hurt himself when he stepped awkwardly while covering first base in the second inning Wednesday. After talking to a trainer, Miley stayed in the game, walked the next batter and was removed after only 43 pitches.Miley said he left because of how he was struggling with his control."I guess they thought I landed on the bag funny, but I was completely fine there," Miley said.The Royals' offense has led the way during the surge. It scored one run at a time to keep it going, led by Perez's homer, double and single.Brad Keller (2-0) allowed two singles in six shutout innings. He was acquired from Cincinnati in the 2017 Rule 5 Draft.The bullpen had two narrow escapes.Jesse Winker, Freddy Galvis and Josh VanMeter homered in the seventh, cutting it to 5-4. Josh Staumont escaped a two-on threat in the eighth with a pair of called third strikes, and Rosenthal provided the final drama."That was kind of fun, huh?" Perez said.Perez connected for his fourth homer off Tyler Mahle, extending his hitting streak to 10 games -- his longest since 2017. He's batting .429 (18 for 42) during the streak.LOVE THE PLACEThe Royals are 17-10 all-time vs. the Reds, including 12-4 since the start of 2009. They're 8-4 at Great American Ball Park, the best mark by a team with at least 10 games.ONE MOREMatheny's next win will be his 600th as a manager. He'll join Dusty Baker, Terry Francona, Joe Maddon, Bob Melvin, Ron Gardenhire, Joe Girardi, Bud Black and Don Mattingly as active managers with 600.UMP HURTThe game was delayed 17 minutes in the bottom of the first inning when plate umpire Chris Conroy took a foul off his right hand, breaking the ring finger. Crew chief Jeff Nelson moved behind the plate for the next two innings, and Conroy returned and worked third base with his finger bandaged.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: Adalberto Mondesi was hit in the right arm by a pitch in the fourth but stayed in the game.Reds: Miley was reinstated from the 10-day injured list pregame and right-hander Joel Kuhnel was optioned.UP NEXTRoyals: After a day off, KC opens a series in Minneapolis. Jakob Junis (0-0) faces the Twins for the second time in a week. He allowed two solo homers in 4 2/3 innings last Friday. Junis is trying for his first win in five starts.Reds: Anthony DeSclafani (1-0) opens a four-game series against the Pirates. He's 0-4 in his last six starts against Pittsburgh, with the Reds losing all six games.

Royals hold off Reds to split series

MANHATTAN, Kan. – K-State Athletics and the Big 12 Conference today unveiled the Wildcats’ new 10-game football schedule for the 2020 season, which includes a newly scheduled non-conference matchup and all nine conference games.

K-State will now open the season on September 12 by hosting Arkansas State at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The Wildcats are 2-0 all-time against the Red Wolves, while it will be the first meeting between the two schools in 40 years. K-State earned a 31-7 victory in Manhattan in 1980 and also defeated A-State, 37-6, in Manhattan in 1948.

The September 12 start date is the latest in the year that K-State will begin a season since 1992 (September 19 vs. Montana), while it is the first time in school history that K-State will play less than two non-conference games.

Following its first bye week of the season, Kansas State opens Big 12 play on September 26 when the Cats travel to Oklahoma. It will be the second-straight year the Wildcats open Big 12 play in the state of Oklahoma (at Oklahoma State in 2019), while it will be the first in Norman since a 24-19 victory over the sixth-ranked Sooners on September 22, 2012.

The Wildcats Big 12 home opener is slated for October 3 against Texas Tech before traveling to TCU on October 10. The second bye week of the season is on October 17 before K-State hosts Kansas on October 24 and travels to West Virginia – its original conference opener – on October 31.

The month of November opens with a visit from Oklahoma State on November 7 prior to the third bye of the schedule on November 14. From there, the Wildcats travel to Iowa State (November 21) and Baylor (November 28) before closing out the season on December 5 with a home contest against Texas. It will be the first home December game since defeating West Virginia, 24-23, in 2015.

The 2020 Big 12 Championship game will be held at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas and is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, December 12.

Although the number of fans able to attend games this fall remains unknown, the department continues to work with local county, city and University officials. Season ticket holders will be contacted via email as soon as capacity and ticket details are finalized.

September 12 Arkansas State September 26 at Oklahoma October 3 Texas Tech October 10 at TCU October 24 Kansas October 31 at West Virginia November 7 Oklahoma State November 21 at Iowa State November 28 at Baylor December 5 Texas

MANHATTAN, Kan. – K-State Athletics and the Big 12 Conference today unveiled the Wildcats’ new 10-game football schedule for the 2020 season, which includes a newly scheduled non-conference matchup and all nine conference games.K-State will now open the season on September 12 by hosting Arkansas State at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The Wildcats are 2-0 all-time against the Red Wolves, while it will be the first meeting between the two schools in 40 years. K-State earned a 31-7 victory in Manhattan in 1980 and also defeated A-State, 37-6, in Manhattan in 1948.The September 12 start date is the latest in the year that K-State will begin a season since 1992 (September 19 vs. Montana), while it is the first time in school history that K-State will play less than two non-conference games.Following its first bye week of the season, Kansas State opens Big 12 play on September 26 when the Cats travel to Oklahoma. It will be the second-straight year the Wildcats open Big 12 play in the state of Oklahoma (at Oklahoma State in 2019), while it will be the first in Norman since a 24-19 victory over the sixth-ranked Sooners on September 22, 2012.The Wildcats Big 12 home opener is slated for October 3 against Texas Tech before traveling to TCU on October 10. The second bye week of the season is on October 17 before K-State hosts Kansas on October 24 and travels to West Virginia – its original conference opener – on October 31.The month of November opens with a visit from Oklahoma State on November 7 prior to the third bye of the schedule on November 14. From there, the Wildcats travel to Iowa State (November 21) and Baylor (November 28) before closing out the season on December 5 with a home contest against Texas. It will be the first home December game since defeating West Virginia, 24-23, in 2015.The 2020 Big 12 Championship game will be held at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas and is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, December 12.Although the number of fans able to attend games this fall remains unknown, the department continues to work with local county, city and University officials. Season ticket holders will be contacted via email as soon as capacity and ticket details are finalized.September 12 Arkansas State September 26 at Oklahoma October 3 Texas Tech October 10 at TCU October 24 Kansas October 31 at West Virginia November 7 Oklahoma State November 21 at Iowa State November 28 at Baylor December 5 TexasKansas State Athletics

K-State, Big 12 announced updated 2020 football schedule

LAWRENCE, Kan. - Kansas football’s revised Big 12 Conference schedule, which features four home games and five road trips, was released by the conference office on Wednesday. The Jayhawks will kick-off the 2020 conference schedule by travelling to Waco to face the Baylor Bears on Sept. 26.

“We are excited to be able to move forward with the updated schedule and compete this fall,” head coach Les Miles said. “We will continue to prepare for our season cautiously, while also relying on the direction and oversight of Kansas Team Health medical professionals to provide our players with a game plan that promotes their health and safety.”

Under the adopted schedule, the Jayhawks will still host Oklahoma State, Iowa State, Texas and TCU at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, while making trips to Baylor, West Virginia, K-State, Oklahoma and Texas Tech.

Sept. 26 at Baylor Oct. 3 Oklahoma State Oct. 17 at West Virginia Oct. 24 at K-State Oct. 31 Iowa State Nov. 7 at Oklahoma Nov. 21 Texas Nov. 28 TCU Dec. 5 at Texas Tech

LAWRENCE, Kan. - Kansas football’s revised Big 12 Conference schedule, which features four home games and five road trips, was released by the conference office on Wednesday. The Jayhawks will kick-off the 2020 conference schedule by travelling to Waco to face the Baylor Bears on Sept. 26.“We are excited to be able to move forward with the updated schedule and compete this fall,” head coach Les Miles said. “We will continue to prepare for our season cautiously, while also relying on the direction and oversight of Kansas Team Health medical professionals to provide our players with a game plan that promotes their health and safety.”Under the adopted schedule, the Jayhawks will still host Oklahoma State, Iowa State, Texas and TCU at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, while making trips to Baylor, West Virginia, K-State, Oklahoma and Texas Tech.Sept. 26 at Baylor Oct. 3 Oklahoma State Oct. 17 at West Virginia Oct. 24 at K-State Oct. 31 Iowa State Nov. 7 at Oklahoma Nov. 21 Texas Nov. 28 TCU Dec. 5 at Texas TechKansas Athletics

Kansas releases revised 2020 football schedule

DALLAS (AP) - The Big 12 Conference is moving ahead with plans to play college football and other fall sports. They will join the Atlantic Coast and Southeastern conferences in taking the field amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

The move came one day after the Big Ten and Pac-12 announced they would not play this fall. In the Big 12, fall sports will begin after Sept. 1 with the football schedule beginning league play Sept. 26. 

Schools also can play one non-conference opponent.

DALLAS (AP) - The Big 12 Conference is moving ahead with plans to play college football and other fall sports. They will join the Atlantic Coast and Southeastern conferences in taking the field amid the coronavirus pandemic. The move came one day after the Big Ten and Pac-12 announced they would not play this fall. In the Big 12, fall sports will begin after Sept. 1 with the football schedule beginning league play Sept. 26. Schools also can play one non-conference opponent.

Big 12 moves ahead with fall sports beginning in September

CINCINNATI (AP) - Joey Votto doubled home the winning run in the 10th inning Tuesday night, and the Cincinnati Reds blew another late lead before rallying for a 6-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals.

The Royals tied it 5-5 in the eighth on Ryan McBroom's pinch-hit, two-run homer off Amir Garrett, but they couldn't keep their four-game winning streak going.

Votto saved the Reds from another rough ending.

"Joey came through as he has so many times in his career," manager David Bell said. "That was a great at-bat for us as a team."

With a designated runner on second base in the 10th, Josh Staumont (0-1) walked Nick Castellanos and Votto doubled off the wall in center, just over the glove of Brett Phillips.

"I imagine if you ask Brett he'll say that's a ball he'll catch nine times out of 10," Royals manager Mike Matheny said. "The ball was hit pretty good though."

Lucas Sims (1-0) gave up a walk in the 10th with a designated runner on second base but escaped the threat.

Matt Davidson and Jesse Winker hit consecutive homers off left-hander Kris Bubic in his first road start as Cincinnati pulled ahead 5-3, but Cincinnati's leaky bullpen let another lead slip away.

Luis Castillo limited the Royals' resurgent offense to three runs -- one earned -- in six innings. The Royals loaded the bases three times in all but managed only one run out of all those chances.

Bubic failed again to get a win in his third big league start. The 40th overall pick in the 2018 draft jumped from Single-A to the majors.

Kyle Farmer hit a two-run double in the second. Davidson had a two-run shot in the third, and Winker followed with a solo shot, the Reds' first back-to-back homers of the season. Bubic gave up five runs and seven hits in five innings.

"Honestly I thought I pitched better than what the linescore would look like," Bubic said.

The Royals repeatedly wasted bases-loaded chances and failed to take full advantage of three Reds errors.

"It's just a game that should have been ours," Matheny said.

Kansas City left the bases loaded in the second when Alex Gordon lined out. The Royals managed only one run out of a bases-loaded chance in the third, on Ryan O'Hearn's single.

The Royals loaded the bases again with one out in the seventh, but Farmer -- playing shortstop -- made a diving stop on O'Hearn's grounder up the middle and turned a double play to protect the 5-3 lead that slipped away two innings later.

Salvador Perez extended his hitting streak to nine games. Nicky Lopez and Maikel Franco extended theirs to seven games each.

The Reds fanned 11, giving them 196 through the first 17 games, a major league record. The 2018 Astros held the previous mark of 191.

The Royals are 11-4 against the Reds since 2009, including 7-4 all-time at Great American Ball Park.

Right-handed pitcher Carlos Hernandez and lefty Asa Lacy were added to the 60-man roster. Hernandez pitched at three levels of the minors last year. Lacy, 21, was the fourth overall selection in this year's first-year player draft from Texas A&amp;M.

Royals: Outfielder Franchy Cordero had surgery to repair a broken bone in his right wrist. He went on the injured list Sunday. Cordero was acquired from the Padres on July 16 and played in 11 games.

Reds: Reliever Pedro Strop went on the 10-day injured list with a groin injury. Infielder Josh VanMeter was recalled.

Royals: Brad Keller (1-0) makes his first road start of the season and first career start against the Reds.

Reds: Left-hander Wade Miley is expected to come off the injured list and make his second start. He suffered a groin injury in his Reds debut against the Cubs on July 27.

CINCINNATI (AP) - Joey Votto doubled home the winning run in the 10th inning Tuesday night, and the Cincinnati Reds blew another late lead before rallying for a 6-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals.The Royals tied it 5-5 in the eighth on Ryan McBroom's pinch-hit, two-run homer off Amir Garrett, but they couldn't keep their four-game winning streak going.Votto saved the Reds from another rough ending."Joey came through as he has so many times in his career," manager David Bell said. "That was a great at-bat for us as a team."With a designated runner on second base in the 10th, Josh Staumont (0-1) walked Nick Castellanos and Votto doubled off the wall in center, just over the glove of Brett Phillips."I imagine if you ask Brett he'll say that's a ball he'll catch nine times out of 10," Royals manager Mike Matheny said. "The ball was hit pretty good though."Lucas Sims (1-0) gave up a walk in the 10th with a designated runner on second base but escaped the threat.Matt Davidson and Jesse Winker hit consecutive homers off left-hander Kris Bubic in his first road start as Cincinnati pulled ahead 5-3, but Cincinnati's leaky bullpen let another lead slip away.Luis Castillo limited the Royals' resurgent offense to three runs -- one earned -- in six innings. The Royals loaded the bases three times in all but managed only one run out of all those chances.Bubic failed again to get a win in his third big league start. The 40th overall pick in the 2018 draft jumped from Single-A to the majors.Kyle Farmer hit a two-run double in the second. Davidson had a two-run shot in the third, and Winker followed with a solo shot, the Reds' first back-to-back homers of the season. Bubic gave up five runs and seven hits in five innings."Honestly I thought I pitched better than what the linescore would look like," Bubic said.The Royals repeatedly wasted bases-loaded chances and failed to take full advantage of three Reds errors."It's just a game that should have been ours," Matheny said.Kansas City left the bases loaded in the second when Alex Gordon lined out. The Royals managed only one run out of a bases-loaded chance in the third, on Ryan O'Hearn's single.The Royals loaded the bases again with one out in the seventh, but Farmer -- playing shortstop -- made a diving stop on O'Hearn's grounder up the middle and turned a double play to protect the 5-3 lead that slipped away two innings later.STREAKINGSalvador Perez extended his hitting streak to nine games. Nicky Lopez and Maikel Franco extended theirs to seven games each.LOT OF KsThe Reds fanned 11, giving them 196 through the first 17 games, a major league record. The 2018 Astros held the previous mark of 191.LOPSIDED HISTORYThe Royals are 11-4 against the Reds since 2009, including 7-4 all-time at Great American Ball Park.NEW ROYALSRight-handed pitcher Carlos Hernandez and lefty Asa Lacy were added to the 60-man roster. Hernandez pitched at three levels of the minors last year. Lacy, 21, was the fourth overall selection in this year's first-year player draft from Texas A&amp;M.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: Outfielder Franchy Cordero had surgery to repair a broken bone in his right wrist. He went on the injured list Sunday. Cordero was acquired from the Padres on July 16 and played in 11 games.Reds: Reliever Pedro Strop went on the 10-day injured list with a groin injury. Infielder Josh VanMeter was recalled.UP NEXTRoyals: Brad Keller (1-0) makes his first road start of the season and first career start against the Reds.Reds: Left-hander Wade Miley is expected to come off the injured list and make his second start. He suffered a groin injury in his Reds debut against the Cubs on July 27.

Royals fall to Cincinnati in 10 innings

UNDATED (AP) - And then there were three.

The Atlantic Coast Conference, Big 12 and Southeastern Conference were still moving forward Tuesday with plans for a fall college football season even as two other Power Five leagues, the Big Ten and the Pac-12, called things off.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said he wanted to learn more about the factors that led the Big Ten and Pac-12 decisions. Sankey said he remained comfortable with the 14-member conference’s approach.

“We will continue to further refine our policies and protocols for a safe return to sports as we monitor developments around COVID-19 in a continued effort to support, educate and care for our student-athletes every day,” Sankey said in a statement.

The ACC said it would continue to make decisions based on advice from its medical advisers and state and local health officials.

“We will continue to follow our process that has been in place for months and has served us well. We understand the need to stay flexible and be prepared to adjust as medical information and the landscape evolves,” the league said in a statement.

The Big 12 Board of Directors met Tuesday evening and will continue moving forward with the intent of playing fall football.

The Big Ten’s announcement that it was postponing all fall sports and hoping to make them up in the second semester came first. An hour later, the Pac-12 said all sports in its conference would be paused until Jan. 1, including basketball.

UNDATED (AP) - And then there were three.The Atlantic Coast Conference, Big 12 and Southeastern Conference were still moving forward Tuesday with plans for a fall college football season even as two other Power Five leagues, the Big Ten and the Pac-12, called things off.SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said he wanted to learn more about the factors that led the Big Ten and Pac-12 decisions. Sankey said he remained comfortable with the 14-member conference’s approach.“We will continue to further refine our policies and protocols for a safe return to sports as we monitor developments around COVID-19 in a continued effort to support, educate and care for our student-athletes every day,” Sankey said in a statement.The ACC said it would continue to make decisions based on advice from its medical advisers and state and local health officials.“We will continue to follow our process that has been in place for months and has served us well. We understand the need to stay flexible and be prepared to adjust as medical information and the landscape evolves,” the league said in a statement.The Big 12 Board of Directors met Tuesday evening and will continue moving forward with the intent of playing fall football.The Big Ten’s announcement that it was postponing all fall sports and hoping to make them up in the second semester came first. An hour later, the Pac-12 said all sports in its conference would be paused until Jan. 1, including basketball.

SEC, Big 12, ACC still hope to play football this fall

INDIANAPOLIS (August 11, 2020) -&nbsp;The MIAA led NCAA Division II Women’s Basketball for the 12th straight season in total attendance with 185,458 fans attending games and an average attendance of 1,085 fans per game during the 2019-2020 season. It is also the ninth consecutive season the Association surpassed 185,000 fans for a season. The MIAA also landed seven members in the top 11 of total attendance led by Fort Hays State, which ranked second nationally with an average of 2,465 fans. Washburn finished sixth and Central Missouri came in seventh. The Ichabods had an attendance average of 1,558 fans and the Jennies had a figure of 1,551.&nbsp; Emporia State and Missouri Southern ranked eighth and ninth respectively. The Lady Hornets recorded an average of 1,512&nbsp; fans as the Lions drew an average of 1,392 fans. In 10th was Missouri Western with an average of 1,282 fans. Pittsburg State finished just outside of the top 10 with an average of 1,231 fans. The 2020 MIAA Women’s Basketball Championship game between Central Missouri and Emporia State was the highest attended single-game in NCAA Division II for the season with a crowd of 6,455. To see the complete attendance number for all three NCAA Divisions and how MIAA members compare,&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaa.com/services/go.ashx/62a83d83-61f1-4951-92d5-0bc464bbd701?elinkdata=149164" target="_blank">click here</a>.&nbsp;

INDIANAPOLIS (August 11, 2020) -&nbsp;The MIAA led NCAA Division II Women’s Basketball for the 12th straight season in total attendance with 185,458 fans attending games and an average attendance of 1,085 fans per game during the 2019-2020 season. It is also the ninth consecutive season the Association surpassed 185,000 fans for a season. The MIAA also landed seven members in the top 11 of total attendance led by Fort Hays State, which ranked second nationally with an average of 2,465 fans. Washburn finished sixth and Central Missouri came in seventh. The Ichabods had an attendance average of 1,558 fans and the Jennies had a figure of 1,551.&nbsp; Emporia State and Missouri Southern ranked eighth and ninth respectively. The Lady Hornets recorded an average of 1,512&nbsp; fans as the Lions drew an average of 1,392 fans. In 10th was Missouri Western with an average of 1,282 fans. Pittsburg State finished just outside of the top 10 with an average of 1,231 fans. The 2020 MIAA Women’s Basketball Championship game between Central Missouri and Emporia State was the highest attended single-game in NCAA Division II for the season with a crowd of 6,455. To see the complete attendance number for all three NCAA Divisions and how MIAA members compare,&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaa.com/services/go.ashx/62a83d83-61f1-4951-92d5-0bc464bbd701?elinkdata=149164" target="_blank">click here</a>.&nbsp;MIAA Release

MIAA women's basketball leads Division II in attendance

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Kansas City Royals announced today that right-handed pitcher Carlos Hernández and left-handed pitcher Asa Lacy have been added to the alternate site camp, part of the club’s 60-man roster.

Hernández, 23, pitched at three different minor league levels with the organization last year and was added to the 40-man roster last November. Lacy, 21, was Kansas City’s first selection (4th overall) in this year’s First-Year Player Draft out of Texas A&amp;M University.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Kansas City Royals announced today that right-handed pitcher Carlos Hernández and left-handed pitcher Asa Lacy have been added to the alternate site camp, part of the club’s 60-man roster.Hernández, 23, pitched at three different minor league levels with the organization last year and was added to the 40-man roster last November. Lacy, 21, was Kansas City’s first selection (4th overall) in this year’s First-Year Player Draft out of Texas A&amp;M University.Royals Release