🎥 Meet the Larks Garrett Gruell

Sunday, July 28
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. Kansas Cannons, approx. 11:45am KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 12:30pm&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sunday, July 28
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. Kansas Cannons, approx. 11:45am KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 12:30pm&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Wisdom hit a grand slam as a pinch hitter in the seventh inning, Seiya Suzuki also homered and the Chicago Cubs beat the Kansas City Royals 9-4 on Saturday night.

Wisdom hit for Pete Crow-Armstrong and laced the homer 440-feet off Sam Long into the fountains in left for a 7-4 lead.

The runners were put on base by Seth Lugo (12-5), who went 6 1/3 innings. He allowed six earned runs on five hits while walking two and striking out two.

Julian Merryweather (1-0) pitched an inning for the victory. Cubs starter Shota Imanaga went 5 2/3 innings, allowing three earned runs on six hits and three strikeouts.

Suzuki hit his 15th homer, scoring Michael Busch to make it 2-0 in the first. Hunter Renfroe his 10th homer for Kansas City in the second.

Crow-Armstrong tripled and scored in the third inning to make it 3-1.

Kansas rallied in the sixth to take a 4-3 lead. Bobby Witt Jr. doubled in Maikel Garcia, but was thrown out rounding second base. Later, Salvador Perez singled, Freddy Fermin doubled and Renfroe followed with a two-run single.

David Bote and Nico Hoerner drove in runs in the ninth for Chicago.

The Cubs acquired RHP Nate Pearson from the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for INF Josh Rivera and OF Yohendrick Pinango. RHP Jesus Tinoco was designated for assignment.

Chicago RHP Javier Assad (4-3, 3.15 ERA) was set to face LHP Cole Ragans (7-6, 3.23) on Sunday.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Wisdom hit a grand slam as a pinch hitter in the seventh inning, Seiya Suzuki also homered and the Chicago Cubs beat the Kansas City Royals 9-4 on Saturday night.Wisdom hit for Pete Crow-Armstrong and laced the homer 440-feet off Sam Long into the fountains in left for a 7-4 lead.The runners were put on base by Seth Lugo (12-5), who went 6 1/3 innings. He allowed six earned runs on five hits while walking two and striking out two.Julian Merryweather (1-0) pitched an inning for the victory. Cubs starter Shota Imanaga went 5 2/3 innings, allowing three earned runs on six hits and three strikeouts.Suzuki hit his 15th homer, scoring Michael Busch to make it 2-0 in the first. Hunter Renfroe his 10th homer for Kansas City in the second.Crow-Armstrong tripled and scored in the third inning to make it 3-1.Kansas rallied in the sixth to take a 4-3 lead. Bobby Witt Jr. doubled in Maikel Garcia, but was thrown out rounding second base. Later, Salvador Perez singled, Freddy Fermin doubled and Renfroe followed with a two-run single.David Bote and Nico Hoerner drove in runs in the ninth for Chicago.ROSTER MOVESThe Cubs acquired RHP Nate Pearson from the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for INF Josh Rivera and OF Yohendrick Pinango. RHP Jesus Tinoco was designated for assignment.UP NEXTChicago RHP Javier Assad (4-3, 3.15 ERA) was set to face LHP Cole Ragans (7-6, 3.23) on Sunday.

⚾ Wisdom hits grand slam as the Cubs beat the Royals

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post

After an exciting offseason that saw Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce trotting around the globe, he's now back with the Chiefs seeking to make history.

Kelce says that it hasn't been much of a transition to get back to work at training camp, and calls St. Joseph his "sanctuary"

"St. Joe, year 12, that means I've spent just about an entire year of my life up here in the dorms," Kelce tells reporter's post-practice. "Everybody may see that as pretty grueling, but I enjoy it man, there's something about this place that gets you ready every single year and I'm not going to lie I got pretty excited as the time started counting down to get out here and get this thing rolling."

Kelce says the biggest challenge this offseason was getting his body ready after the toll taken on it last season.

There is a lot of excitement this Chiefs Training Camp about new faces that promise to make an already dynamic team even more competitive.

Kelce says he's excited about a lot of those new pieces.

"We got new chess pieces, guys that have different traits and we're just trying to blend that all together to make the best team possible, both on offense and defense and obviously special teams," Kelce says. "It's just the ultimate grind session of working together."

"We have to be more together right now then even, well I don't want to say during the season, but right now this is where you really build that togetherness, that chemistry, that ability to lean on each other and fight for each other."

While there are a lot of new faces on this year's Chiefs team stepping into new roles, it's the same story for one not so new face on the defense.

The Chiefs lost linebacker Willie Gay to free agency this offseason, and now it's expected that third year linebacker Leo Chenal will have his role expanded to fill that gap.

Chenal says right now he's just doing whatever coaches ask him to do.

"I have certain strengths to my game, whether it's getting on the line or addressing blockers, so it's really just doing whatever Spags asks me to do," Chenal explains. "Lining up in the A gap, on the edge, off the ball, I'm getting more and more comfortable with the things I didn't do in college and hopefully it will get me more time on the field, and I can help the team out as best I can."

Chenal says it's been good to learn all these different formations and says he's been working with guys like George Karlaftis, Chris Jones, and defensive line coach Terry Bradden on ways to line up and defensive line moves.

The Chiefs held their second practice in full pads and practiced for nearly two hours today. They practice again tomorrow at 9:15 at Missouri Western State University.

The Chiefs know whose kicking, but who could be returning kicks?

Kansas City Chiefs special teams coach Dave Toub knows who's going to be kicking off this season, but as for punt and kick returns that's still being determined.

Toub says every practice he has at least 19 guys working out at punt and kick return, but realistically in his mind there are five or six that could take the job.

"(Xavier) Worthy no question, (Kadarius) Toney is in there, Mecole, Hollywood he's exciting to think that he can do it," Toub says. "And the guy that's done a really good job is Nikko Remigio."

Toub says he's already tabbed Harrison Butker as the guy who will be kicking off this season, under new kickoff rules, which Toub says he's both excited and nervous about.

"We've been working on it a lot, we'll work on it again tomorrow in practice, you work on it in walkthroughs almost every time," Toub explains. "But there's a lot of unknowns with it, how are teams going to attack you, what are they going to do and what are the kickers going to do, what's going to be the philosophy, and how are they going to officiate it too."

Toub says it's going to be an ongoing learning process and stresses the importance of this year's preseason games.

Chiefs' receiver Justin Watson was again not in pads for practice today. Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid said on Friday that he's day to day with an ankle injury.

Watson was spotted after practice getting some work in taking passes off the jugs machine kneeling on one knee. There was no boot, no noticeable wrap, no noticeable limp before he headed back to the training complex.

Cornerback Nazeeh Johnson again left practice early following cornerback and wide receiver drills. He did walk off the field on his own power and seemed to want to return to practice before leaving for the training complex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722105594971.jpeg" alt="Travis Kelce holds off a defender as he runs downfield/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Travis Kelce holds off a defender as he runs downfield/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph PostAfter an exciting offseason that saw Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce trotting around the globe, he's now back with the Chiefs seeking to make history.Kelce says that it hasn't been much of a transition to get back to work at training camp, and calls St. Joseph his "sanctuary""St. Joe, year 12, that means I've spent just about an entire year of my life up here in the dorms," Kelce tells reporter's post-practice. "Everybody may see that as pretty grueling, but I enjoy it man, there's something about this place that gets you ready every single year and I'm not going to lie I got pretty excited as the time started counting down to get out here and get this thing rolling."Kelce says the biggest challenge this offseason was getting his body ready after the toll taken on it last season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722105659670.jpeg" alt="Travis Kelce celebrates after scoring a touchdown during drills at Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Travis Kelce celebrates after scoring a touchdown during drills at Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>There is a lot of excitement this Chiefs Training Camp about new faces that promise to make an already dynamic team even more competitive.Kelce says he's excited about a lot of those new pieces."We got new chess pieces, guys that have different traits and we're just trying to blend that all together to make the best team possible, both on offense and defense and obviously special teams," Kelce says. "It's just the ultimate grind session of working together.""We have to be more together right now then even, well I don't want to say during the season, but right now this is where you really build that togetherness, that chemistry, that ability to lean on each other and fight for each other."While there are a lot of new faces on this year's Chiefs team stepping into new roles, it's the same story for one not so new face on the defense.The Chiefs lost linebacker Willie Gay to free agency this offseason, and now it's expected that third year linebacker Leo Chenal will have his role expanded to fill that gap.Chenal says right now he's just doing whatever coaches ask him to do."I have certain strengths to my game, whether it's getting on the line or addressing blockers, so it's really just doing whatever Spags asks me to do," Chenal explains. "Lining up in the A gap, on the edge, off the ball, I'm getting more and more comfortable with the things I didn't do in college and hopefully it will get me more time on the field, and I can help the team out as best I can."Chenal says it's been good to learn all these different formations and says he's been working with guys like George Karlaftis, Chris Jones, and defensive line coach Terry Bradden on ways to line up and defensive line moves.The Chiefs held their second practice in full pads and practiced for nearly two hours today. They practice again tomorrow at 9:15 at Missouri Western State University.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722105936347.jpeg" alt="Kicker Harrison Butker (7) attempts a kick as new punter Matt Araiza (49) holds/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Kicker Harrison Butker (7) attempts a kick as new punter Matt Araiza (49) holds/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>The Chiefs know whose kicking, but who could be returning kicks?Kansas City Chiefs special teams coach Dave Toub knows who's going to be kicking off this season, but as for punt and kick returns that's still being determined.Toub says every practice he has at least 19 guys working out at punt and kick return, but realistically in his mind there are five or six that could take the job."(Xavier) Worthy no question, (Kadarius) Toney is in there, Mecole, Hollywood he's exciting to think that he can do it," Toub says. "And the guy that's done a really good job is Nikko Remigio."Toub says he's already tabbed Harrison Butker as the guy who will be kicking off this season, under new kickoff rules, which Toub says he's both excited and nervous about."We've been working on it a lot, we'll work on it again tomorrow in practice, you work on it in walkthroughs almost every time," Toub explains. "But there's a lot of unknowns with it, how are teams going to attack you, what are they going to do and what are the kickers going to do, what's going to be the philosophy, and how are they going to officiate it too."Toub says it's going to be an ongoing learning process and stresses the importance of this year's preseason games.Injury ReportChiefs' receiver Justin Watson was again not in pads for practice today. Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid said on Friday that he's day to day with an ankle injury.Watson was spotted after practice getting some work in taking passes off the jugs machine kneeling on one knee. There was no boot, no noticeable wrap, no noticeable limp before he headed back to the training complex.Cornerback Nazeeh Johnson again left practice early following cornerback and wide receiver drills. He did walk off the field on his own power and seemed to want to return to practice before leaving for the training complex.

🏈 After travelling the globe, Kelce glad to be back at training camp

Saturday, July 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 5:30pm

Sunday, July 28
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. TBD, approx. 11:45am KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 12:30pm&nbsp;

Saturday, July 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 5:30pmSunday, July 28
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. TBD, approx. 11:45am KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 12:30pm&nbsp;

🎥 Meet the Larks Keith Harper

WICHITA – The Hays Larks took advantage of nine walks and
three pitchers combined on a two-hit shutout as they took down the Air Capital
Flyers 8-0 in their first game of the NBC World Series Friday in Wichita.

The Larks scored in every inning but the second.

After starter Blake Lehmbeck retired the side in order in
the first the Larks took advantage of an error for a 1-0 lead, but they left
the bases loaded.

Hays added another single run in the third, scoring on a
Garrett Gruell RBI single for a 2-0 lead.

The Larks big inning came in the fourth when they took
advantage of six walks, three with the bases loaded for a 5-0 lead through four
innings.

Thomas Lyssy tripled to lead of the fifth and scored on a
Houston Russell sacrifice fly giving Hays a 6-0 lead through five innings.

In the sixth Wilbert Espinal doubled in a run and Gruell
followed with an RBI single, all with two outs to put Hays up 8-0 through six
innings.

Hays then retired the Flyers in order in the top of the seventh
inning on their way to the 8-0 victory.

Lehmbeck earned the win for Hays. He allowed just two hits
with three walks and five strikeouts in 4 1/3 innings. The Larks bullpen
combined for 2 2/3 shutout innings with five strikeouts.

Gruell collected two hits and he and Espinal each drove in a
pair of runs. 

They will take on the Kansas Cannons at noon on Sunday.

The Cannons are 0-1 in pool play after a loss to Lonestar
Baseball Club.

Lonestar will take on the Air Capital Flyers at 6 a.m. on Sunday.

Hays PostWICHITA – The Hays Larks took advantage of nine walks and
three pitchers combined on a two-hit shutout as they took down the Air Capital
Flyers 8-0 in their first game of the NBC World Series Friday in Wichita.The Larks scored in every inning but the second.After starter Blake Lehmbeck retired the side in order in
the first the Larks took advantage of an error for a 1-0 lead, but they left
the bases loaded.Hays added another single run in the third, scoring on a
Garrett Gruell RBI single for a 2-0 lead.The Larks big inning came in the fourth when they took
advantage of six walks, three with the bases loaded for a 5-0 lead through four
innings.Thomas Lyssy tripled to lead of the fifth and scored on a
Houston Russell sacrifice fly giving Hays a 6-0 lead through five innings.In the sixth Wilbert Espinal doubled in a run and Gruell
followed with an RBI single, all with two outs to put Hays up 8-0 through six
innings.Hays then retired the Flyers in order in the top of the seventh
inning on their way to the 8-0 victory.Lehmbeck earned the win for Hays. He allowed just two hits
with three walks and five strikeouts in 4 1/3 innings. The Larks bullpen
combined for 2 2/3 shutout innings with five strikeouts.Gruell collected two hits and he and Espinal each drove in a
pair of runs. The Larks are 29-8 and 1-0 in pool play.They will take on the Kansas Cannons at noon on Sunday.The Cannons are 0-1 in pool play after a loss to Lonestar
Baseball Club.Lonestar will take on the Air Capital Flyers at 6 a.m. on Sunday.

⚾Larks open NBC with win over Flyers

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a three-run homer that highlighted a six-run fifth inning and Kansas City beat the Chicago Cubs 6-0 Friday night in front of the Royals' second-largest crowd of the season.

Friday night's attendance of 36,351 at Kauffman Stadium was topped only by the 38,775 on opening day.

The Royals, in third place in the AL Central behind Cleveland and Minnesota, moved 10 games over .500 at 57-47 and eclipsed last season's win total.

Brady Singer (7-6) was nearly flawless, allowing just two hits in seven innings while striking out five and walking two. The 27-year-old right-hander combined with Will Smith and Chris Stratton to limit the Cubs to four hits.

Kyle Hendricks (2-9) allowed six runs on eight hits in five innings in the loss.

The fifth inning was key for both pitchers.

Singer hit Mike Tauchman with a pitch leading off the fifth before Dansby Swanson's soft liner sent Tauchman to third. Swanson went to second on the throw to third. But Singer got Miles Mastrobuoni to ground out to second. Miguel Amaya hit a flyout to center, and Kyle Isbel threw out Tauchman at the plate.

The Royals unloaded on Hendricks in their half of the inning. With two outs, Garrett Hampson had a bloop hit to right, and Kyle Isbel followed with a single through the hole at short. Isbel stole second before Adam Frazier drove in both runs with another blooper to right. Bobby Witt Jr. then singled and Vinnie Pasquantino's single drove in Frazier. Perez then launched a 429-foot line drive homer down the left-field line to break open the game.

Cubs: C Tomas Nido was placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to July 25, with a right knee sprain. ... C Christian Bethancourt was selected from Triple-A Iowa... P Ben Brown was transferred to the 60-day injured list.

Royals: OF MJ Melendez began a rehab assignment in Double-A Northwest Arkansas on Thursday night. He went 0 for 3 with a sacrifice fly and a run. Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said it's possible that Melendez could join the team this weekend. He's been on the injured list since July 16, retroactive to July 15, with a sprained left ankle.

The Cubs will send LHP Shota Imanaga (8-2, 2.86 ERA) against Royals' RHP Seth Lugo (12-4, 2.38 ERA) in the second game of the three-game series Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722048716022.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a three-run homer that highlighted a six-run fifth inning and Kansas City beat the Chicago Cubs 6-0 Friday night in front of the Royals' second-largest crowd of the season.Friday night's attendance of 36,351 at Kauffman Stadium was topped only by the 38,775 on opening day.The Royals, in third place in the AL Central behind Cleveland and Minnesota, moved 10 games over .500 at 57-47 and eclipsed last season's win total.Brady Singer (7-6) was nearly flawless, allowing just two hits in seven innings while striking out five and walking two. The 27-year-old right-hander combined with Will Smith and Chris Stratton to limit the Cubs to four hits.Kyle Hendricks (2-9) allowed six runs on eight hits in five innings in the loss.The fifth inning was key for both pitchers.Singer hit Mike Tauchman with a pitch leading off the fifth before Dansby Swanson's soft liner sent Tauchman to third. Swanson went to second on the throw to third. But Singer got Miles Mastrobuoni to ground out to second. Miguel Amaya hit a flyout to center, and Kyle Isbel threw out Tauchman at the plate.The Royals unloaded on Hendricks in their half of the inning. With two outs, Garrett Hampson had a bloop hit to right, and Kyle Isbel followed with a single through the hole at short. Isbel stole second before Adam Frazier drove in both runs with another blooper to right. Bobby Witt Jr. then singled and Vinnie Pasquantino's single drove in Frazier. Perez then launched a 429-foot line drive homer down the left-field line to break open the game.TRANSACTIONS:Cubs: C Tomas Nido was placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to July 25, with a right knee sprain. ... C Christian Bethancourt was selected from Triple-A Iowa... P Ben Brown was transferred to the 60-day injured list.TRAINING ROOM:Royals: OF MJ Melendez began a rehab assignment in Double-A Northwest Arkansas on Thursday night. He went 0 for 3 with a sacrifice fly and a run. Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said it's possible that Melendez could join the team this weekend. He's been on the injured list since July 16, retroactive to July 15, with a sprained left ankle.UP NEXT:The Cubs will send LHP Shota Imanaga (8-2, 2.86 ERA) against Royals' RHP Seth Lugo (12-4, 2.38 ERA) in the second game of the three-game series Saturday.

⚾ Salvador Perez's 3-run homer leads Royals to win over Cubs

Friday, July 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 6:30pm
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. Air Capital Flyers, approx. 8:15pm

Sunday, July 28
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. Kansas Cannons, approx. 11:45am KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 12:30pm&nbsp;

Friday, July 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 6:30pm
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. Air Capital Flyers, approx. 8:15pmSaturday, July 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 5:30pmSunday, July 28
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. Kansas Cannons, approx. 11:45am KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 12:30pm&nbsp;

🎥 Meet the Larks Garrett Hicks

Friday, July 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 6:30pm
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. TBD, approx. 8:15pm

Thursday, July 25Friday, July 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 6:30pm
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. TBD, approx. 8:15pmSaturday, July 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 5:30pmSunday, July 28
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. TBD, approx. 11:45am KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 12:30pm&nbsp;

🎥 Meet the Larks Houston Russell

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gabriel Moreno gave Arizona the lead in the ninth inning with a two-run double, Ketel Marte added a three-run homer and the Diamondbacks beat the Kansas City Royals 8-6 on Wednesday night.

“We never shut down. It was a character win. I think the guys dug as deep as they could,” Arizona manager Torey Lovullo said. “It was a tough environment against a good team. We just got one guy on and kept the line moving.”

Eugenio Saurez homered for Arizona in the second and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/746279/video/pederson-and-walker-hit-back-to-back-home-runs-in-4th">Joc Pederson and Christian Walker hit back-to-back shots in the fourth</a>&nbsp;to make it 3-1. Pederson has 200 career homers.

With Arizona down 4-3 in the ninth against closer James McArthur (4-4), Lourdes Gurriel Jr singled with one out, Geraldo Perdomo walked and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/746279/video/gabriel-moreno-doubles-16-on-a-line-drive-to-center-fielder-kyle-isbel-lo">Moreno slashed the double</a>&nbsp;that rolled to the wall in the right-center gap

“I was really looking for a pitch that I wouldn’t hit into a double play. I was able to stay within myself and go to my side, which is right center,” Moreno said through a translator.

After Corbin Carroll followed Moreno with a single,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/746279/video/ketel-marte-homers-22-on-a-fly-ball-to-center-field-gabriel-moreno-scores">Marte blasted the three-run homer</a>&nbsp;to center.

“That was a super frustrating inning,” MacArthur said. “I felt like I was pretty close at times of getting out of it and just didn’t make the pitch I needed to.”

Marte homered in all three games in the series.

“He’s a beast, I don’t know what else to say,” Lovullo said about Marte, Arizona's line All-Star this season. “He doesn’t surprise me. I’ve seen him do it over and over again. He wants to be in the middle of everything, that’s his personality, and it was a big knock for him.”

Joe Mantiply (4-2) pitched the eighth for the victory and Paul Sewald closed it out after allowing Vinnie Pasquantino’s two-run single in the ninth.

The Royals took the lead with a three-run fourth. Michael Massey doubled and scored on Maikel Garcia’s fielder’s choice. Kyle Isbel followed with a triple to tie it and scored on Ryne Nelson’s wild pitch.

“We left some guys on early, so to fight back and get the lead was big for us,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "But you’ve got to give those guys credit for executing and getting balls in play.”

Bobby Witt Jr. went 3 for 4 for Kansas City to raise his average to .344.

Diamondbacks: Arizona returns home to face Pittsburgh on Friday night. The Diamondbacks hadn’t announced a starter.

Royals: RHP Brady Singer (6-6, 3.00 ERA) was set to start Friday night at home against the Chicago Cubs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721900198494.jpeg" alt="Arizona Diamondbacks' Ketel Marte celebrates hitting a three-run home during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, July 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Arizona Diamondbacks' Ketel Marte celebrates hitting a three-run home during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, July 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gabriel Moreno gave Arizona the lead in the ninth inning with a two-run double, Ketel Marte added a three-run homer and the Diamondbacks beat the Kansas City Royals 8-6 on Wednesday night.“We never shut down. It was a character win. I think the guys dug as deep as they could,” Arizona manager Torey Lovullo said. “It was a tough environment against a good team. We just got one guy on and kept the line moving.”Eugenio Saurez homered for Arizona in the second and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/746279/video/pederson-and-walker-hit-back-to-back-home-runs-in-4th">Joc Pederson and Christian Walker hit back-to-back shots in the fourth</a>&nbsp;to make it 3-1. Pederson has 200 career homers.With Arizona down 4-3 in the ninth against closer James McArthur (4-4), Lourdes Gurriel Jr singled with one out, Geraldo Perdomo walked and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/746279/video/gabriel-moreno-doubles-16-on-a-line-drive-to-center-fielder-kyle-isbel-lo">Moreno slashed the double</a>&nbsp;that rolled to the wall in the right-center gap“I was really looking for a pitch that I wouldn’t hit into a double play. I was able to stay within myself and go to my side, which is right center,” Moreno said through a translator.After Corbin Carroll followed Moreno with a single,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/746279/video/ketel-marte-homers-22-on-a-fly-ball-to-center-field-gabriel-moreno-scores">Marte blasted the three-run homer</a>&nbsp;to center.“That was a super frustrating inning,” MacArthur said. “I felt like I was pretty close at times of getting out of it and just didn’t make the pitch I needed to.”Marte homered in all three games in the series.“He’s a beast, I don’t know what else to say,” Lovullo said about Marte, Arizona's line All-Star this season. “He doesn’t surprise me. I’ve seen him do it over and over again. He wants to be in the middle of everything, that’s his personality, and it was a big knock for him.”Joe Mantiply (4-2) pitched the eighth for the victory and Paul Sewald closed it out after allowing Vinnie Pasquantino’s two-run single in the ninth.The Royals took the lead with a three-run fourth. Michael Massey doubled and scored on Maikel Garcia’s fielder’s choice. Kyle Isbel followed with a triple to tie it and scored on Ryne Nelson’s wild pitch.“We left some guys on early, so to fight back and get the lead was big for us,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "But you’ve got to give those guys credit for executing and getting balls in play.”Bobby Witt Jr. went 3 for 4 for Kansas City to raise his average to .344.UP NEXTDiamondbacks: Arizona returns home to face Pittsburgh on Friday night. The Diamondbacks hadn’t announced a starter.Royals: RHP Brady Singer (6-6, 3.00 ERA) was set to start Friday night at home against the Chicago Cubs.

⚾ 5-run 9th inning lifts Diamondbacks over the Royals 

The Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame will be inducting their third class of in August. Eight individuals make up the class of 2024.

Coach Gerald Mitchell Preston Weigel Brenda Bruggeman Gary Sechrist Raena Sander Tony May Ron Goates Melissa Beyer

Information about the inductees can be found at the Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame Facebook page.

A banquet to will be held to honor the class on Friday, August 16th, 2024. Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://auctria.events/HHSHOF2024">https://auctria.events/HHSHOF2024</a>

Tickets are also available for purchase at the office of Brian Ruder - American Family Insurance. Their office is located at the corner of Indian Trail and East 27th street in Hays.

Tickets are $40. The evening includes a social hour will be held from 5:00-6:00 p.m., a professional photographer available to take pictures, as well as a cash bar. The banquet will begin at 6:00, and your ticket includes admission to the banquet and a meal.

The Hays High Athletics HOF also provides scholarships to graduating seniors at Hays High School.

The 3rd annual Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet will be held August 16th, 2024 at the Rose Garden in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp;

The Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame will be inducting their third class of in August. Eight individuals make up the class of 2024.Coach Gerald Mitchell Preston Weigel Brenda Bruggeman Gary Sechrist Raena Sander Tony May Ron Goates Melissa BeyerInformation about the inductees can be found at the Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame Facebook page.A banquet to will be held to honor the class on Friday, August 16th, 2024. Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://auctria.events/HHSHOF2024">https://auctria.events/HHSHOF2024</a>Tickets are also available for purchase at the office of Brian Ruder - American Family Insurance. Their office is located at the corner of Indian Trail and East 27th street in Hays.Tickets are $40. The evening includes a social hour will be held from 5:00-6:00 p.m., a professional photographer available to take pictures, as well as a cash bar. The banquet will begin at 6:00, and your ticket includes admission to the banquet and a meal.The Hays High Athletics HOF also provides scholarships to graduating seniors at Hays High School.The 3rd annual Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet will be held August 16th, 2024 at the Rose Garden in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp;

Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame Ticket Sale Reminder

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Women's Basketball welcomes three newcomers to its squad for the upcoming 2024-25 season. The group includes a pair of transfers in Bailey Wilborn and Sarah Lawless, and true freshman Callie Ott.

This group joins the nine returners from the 2023-24 squad, which includes MIAA Player of the Year Katie Wagner and four-time all-conference performer Olivia Hollenbeck, both returning for a fifth year as graduate students at FHSU.

Wilborn is a 5-foot, 8-inch guard transferring to FHSU with three years of experience with NCAA Division I programs. The Andover, Kan. native spent the past two years at the University of Wyoming, where she played in a total of 18 games. She had a total of 18 points, seven rebounds, and one steal in her time at Wyoming. She produced 15 of her points on 3-point field goals, including three in a game when she had scored nine points, her single-game high at Wyoming. Wilborn spent her first year of college at the University of Maine, where she played in 25 games and made three starts. She averaged 2.8 points per game with a total of 70 points during the 2021-22 season, with 63 of her points scored on 21 3-point field goals. She scored in double figures three times that season. Wilborn had a standout prep career at Andover Central High School where she was a three-time all-state selection and the MVP of the Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League her senior year.

Lawless is a 6-foot, 1-inch forward transferring to FHSU from Cloud County (Kan.) Community College, where spent the last two seasons averaging 3.6 points and 3.6 rebounds per game so far in her collegiate career. The Shawnee, Kan. native had single-game highs of 15 points and 13 rebounds in her time with the Thunderbirds. Lawless played at Basehor-Linwood High School during her prep career, where she earned all-league accolades.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722006753905.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Women's Basketball welcomes three newcomers to its squad for the upcoming 2024-25 season. The group includes a pair of transfers in Bailey Wilborn and Sarah Lawless, and true freshman Callie Ott.This group joins the nine returners from the 2023-24 squad, which includes MIAA Player of the Year Katie Wagner and four-time all-conference performer Olivia Hollenbeck, both returning for a fifth year as graduate students at FHSU.Wilborn is a 5-foot, 8-inch guard transferring to FHSU with three years of experience with NCAA Division I programs. The Andover, Kan. native spent the past two years at the University of Wyoming, where she played in a total of 18 games. She had a total of 18 points, seven rebounds, and one steal in her time at Wyoming. She produced 15 of her points on 3-point field goals, including three in a game when she had scored nine points, her single-game high at Wyoming. Wilborn spent her first year of college at the University of Maine, where she played in 25 games and made three starts. She averaged 2.8 points per game with a total of 70 points during the 2021-22 season, with 63 of her points scored on 21 3-point field goals. She scored in double figures three times that season. Wilborn had a standout prep career at Andover Central High School where she was a three-time all-state selection and the MVP of the Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League her senior year.Lawless is a 6-foot, 1-inch forward transferring to FHSU from Cloud County (Kan.) Community College, where spent the last two seasons averaging 3.6 points and 3.6 rebounds per game so far in her collegiate career. The Shawnee, Kan. native had single-game highs of 15 points and 13 rebounds in her time with the Thunderbirds. Lawless played at Basehor-Linwood High School during her prep career, where she earned all-league accolades.

🏀FHSU Women’s Basketball Adds Three for 2024-25 Season

Wednesday, July 24
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Arizona Diamondbacks, 6:30pm

Wednesday, July 24
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Arizona Diamondbacks, 6:30pmThursday, July 25Friday, July 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 6:30pm
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. TBD, approx. 8:15pmSaturday, July 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 5:30pmSunday, July 28
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. TBD, approx. 11:45am KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 12:30pm&nbsp;

🎥 Meet the Larks Ismael Cordoba

PARIS (AP) — What was expected to be a simple coronation of Salt Lake City as the 2034 Winter Olympic host turned into complicated Olympic politics Wednesday, as the IOC pushed Utah officials to end an FBI investigation into a suspected doping coverup.

The International Olympic Committee is angry about an ongoing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-doping-swimming-paris-olympics-world-aquatics-d55b6c2853e2d7a79cefa68afe51f9bf">U.S. federal investigation of suspected doping</a>&nbsp;by Chinese swimmers who were allowed to compete at the Tokyo Games despite positive drug tests. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) accepted Chinese explanations for the tests, and U.S. officials are now investigating that decision under an anti-conspiracy law passed after the Russian doping scandal at the Sochi Winter Games.

President Thomas Bach wants to make sure WADA is the sole authority on Olympic doping cases, especially with the Sumer Olympics headed to Los Angeles in 2028. The IOC added a clause to Salt Lake's host contract, demanding that local organizers - including Utah Gov. Spencer Cox - push to shut down the federal investigation or risk losing the Olympics.

Cox and others promised to lobby the U.S. president and Congress.

“We agree that if the United States does not support or violates the World Anti-Doping Federation’s rules, that they can withdraw the Games from from us and from the United States, “ Cox said after the announcement. "That was the only way that that we could we could guarantee that we would get the Games.”

Even in the world Olympic diplomacy, it was a stunning power move to force government officials to publicly agree to do the IOC's lobbying.

After getting the Utah contingent's agreement on the clause, the IOC formally awarded the 2034 Winter Games to Salt Lake in an 83-6 vote.

The capital city of Utah was the only candidate after the IOC&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/olympics-winter-salt-lake-2030-2034-ioc-e7da1e36b747395f2417b5e8c1d33088">gave Salt Lake City exclusive negotiating rights last year</a>&nbsp;in a fast-tracked process.

The campaign team presenting the bid on stage to IOC members included Cox, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall and Alpine ski great Lindsey Vonn.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/park-city-utah-olympic-games-paris-winter-olympic-games-48e38677d8f54c8282b947209507e40e">Back home</a>, a 3 a.m. public watch party gathered to see the broadcast from Paris.

The clause inserted into the contract requires Utah officials to to work with current and future U.S. presidents and members of Congress “to alleviate your concerns” about the federal investigation into doping.

The IOC clause allows the Olympic body to terminate Salt Lake City’s deal if the authority of WADA was undermined on U.S. territory.

WADA's role is under scrutiny for accepting a Chinese investigation that declared all 23 swimmers were contaminated by traces of a banned heart medication in a hotel kitchen. Three Chinese gold medals in the Tokyo Olympic pool were won by swimmers implicated in the case. Some are also competing in Paris next week.

The case an be investigated in the U.S. under&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/house-passes-bill-to-make-doping-conspiracies-a-crime-f0036fb6df2a436591a95f644d75a7f2">federal legislation</a>&nbsp;named for a whistleblower of Russian state doping at the 2014 Sochi Winter Games.

The IOC and WADA lobbied against passing the law, known as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/doping-rodchenkov-okagbare-guilty-plea-0fb36146dd202aa869325466a59db676">the Rodchenkov Act</a>, which gives U.S. federal agencies wide jurisdiction of doping enforcement worldwide ahead of Los Angeles hosting the 2028 Summer Games.

“We will work with our members of Congress," Gov. Cox told Bach and IOC voters ahead of the 2034 vote, "we will use all the levers of power open to us to resolve these concerns.”

Salt Lake City first hosted the Winter Games in 2002. That bid was hit with a bribery scandal, which led to anti-corruption reforms at the IOC.

Future U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney was brought in to clean up the Games, which went off well despite tightened security. The Games were the biggest international sports event hosted by the U.S. following the Sept. 11 attacks five months earlier.

“I am sorry for you, and for us, that this issue arose now,” Bach said, addressing the Salt Lake City delegation ahead of the vote.

It is an Olympic tradition for lawmakers and even heads of state to come to an IOC meeting and plead their case to be anointed as an host city.

Russian President Vladimir Putin did it in 2007, speaking in English to secure the 2014 Winter Games for Sochi. British Prime Minister Tony Blair made a key intervention in 2005 to help win the 2012 Olympics for London. U.S. President Barack Obama's visit to Copenhagen in 2009 did not help in Chicago's losing cause for the 2016 Summer Games that went to Rio de Janeiro.

For its second turn, Salt Lake City will get almost 10 full years to prepare — the longest lead-in for a modern Winter Games — amid longer-term concerns about climate change affecting snow sports and reducing the pool of potential hosts.

Salt Lake City opted to target 2034 and so avoided potential commercial and logistical clashes with the 2028 Summer Games being hosted by Los Angeles.

It will be the fifth Winter Games in the U.S. Before Salt Lake City in 2002, there was Lake Placid in 1980 and 1932, and Squaw Valley — now known as Olympic Valley — in 1960.

In a separate decision earlier in Paris, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/winter-olympics-2030-france-alps-nice-ioc-e14c106194e303b5a2ffa968740650b0">2030 Winter Games was awarded</a>&nbsp;— with conditions — to France for a regional project split between ski resorts in the Alps and the French Riviera city Nice.

That project needs official signoff from the national government being formed, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-prime-minister-resign-government-macron-c3a908360a18641ff5879ced259f7726">the Prime Minister yet to be confirmed</a>, after recent elections called by President Emmanuel Macron. He helped present the 2030 bid Wednesday to IOC members.

PARIS (AP) — What was expected to be a simple coronation of Salt Lake City as the 2034 Winter Olympic host turned into complicated Olympic politics Wednesday, as the IOC pushed Utah officials to end an FBI investigation into a suspected doping coverup.The International Olympic Committee is angry about an ongoing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-doping-swimming-paris-olympics-world-aquatics-d55b6c2853e2d7a79cefa68afe51f9bf">U.S. federal investigation of suspected doping</a>&nbsp;by Chinese swimmers who were allowed to compete at the Tokyo Games despite positive drug tests. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) accepted Chinese explanations for the tests, and U.S. officials are now investigating that decision under an anti-conspiracy law passed after the Russian doping scandal at the Sochi Winter Games.President Thomas Bach wants to make sure WADA is the sole authority on Olympic doping cases, especially with the Sumer Olympics headed to Los Angeles in 2028. The IOC added a clause to Salt Lake's host contract, demanding that local organizers - including Utah Gov. Spencer Cox - push to shut down the federal investigation or risk losing the Olympics.Cox and others promised to lobby the U.S. president and Congress.“We agree that if the United States does not support or violates the World Anti-Doping Federation’s rules, that they can withdraw the Games from from us and from the United States, “ Cox said after the announcement. "That was the only way that that we could we could guarantee that we would get the Games.”Even in the world Olympic diplomacy, it was a stunning power move to force government officials to publicly agree to do the IOC's lobbying.After getting the Utah contingent's agreement on the clause, the IOC formally awarded the 2034 Winter Games to Salt Lake in an 83-6 vote.The capital city of Utah was the only candidate after the IOC&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/olympics-winter-salt-lake-2030-2034-ioc-e7da1e36b747395f2417b5e8c1d33088">gave Salt Lake City exclusive negotiating rights last year</a>&nbsp;in a fast-tracked process.The campaign team presenting the bid on stage to IOC members included Cox, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall and Alpine ski great Lindsey Vonn.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/park-city-utah-olympic-games-paris-winter-olympic-games-48e38677d8f54c8282b947209507e40e">Back home</a>, a 3 a.m. public watch party gathered to see the broadcast from Paris.The clause inserted into the contract requires Utah officials to to work with current and future U.S. presidents and members of Congress “to alleviate your concerns” about the federal investigation into doping.The IOC clause allows the Olympic body to terminate Salt Lake City’s deal if the authority of WADA was undermined on U.S. territory.WADA's role is under scrutiny for accepting a Chinese investigation that declared all 23 swimmers were contaminated by traces of a banned heart medication in a hotel kitchen. Three Chinese gold medals in the Tokyo Olympic pool were won by swimmers implicated in the case. Some are also competing in Paris next week.The case an be investigated in the U.S. under&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/house-passes-bill-to-make-doping-conspiracies-a-crime-f0036fb6df2a436591a95f644d75a7f2">federal legislation</a>&nbsp;named for a whistleblower of Russian state doping at the 2014 Sochi Winter Games.The IOC and WADA lobbied against passing the law, known as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/doping-rodchenkov-okagbare-guilty-plea-0fb36146dd202aa869325466a59db676">the Rodchenkov Act</a>, which gives U.S. federal agencies wide jurisdiction of doping enforcement worldwide ahead of Los Angeles hosting the 2028 Summer Games.“We will work with our members of Congress," Gov. Cox told Bach and IOC voters ahead of the 2034 vote, "we will use all the levers of power open to us to resolve these concerns.”Salt Lake City first hosted the Winter Games in 2002. That bid was hit with a bribery scandal, which led to anti-corruption reforms at the IOC.Future U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney was brought in to clean up the Games, which went off well despite tightened security. The Games were the biggest international sports event hosted by the U.S. following the Sept. 11 attacks five months earlier.“I am sorry for you, and for us, that this issue arose now,” Bach said, addressing the Salt Lake City delegation ahead of the vote.It is an Olympic tradition for lawmakers and even heads of state to come to an IOC meeting and plead their case to be anointed as an host city.Russian President Vladimir Putin did it in 2007, speaking in English to secure the 2014 Winter Games for Sochi. British Prime Minister Tony Blair made a key intervention in 2005 to help win the 2012 Olympics for London. U.S. President Barack Obama's visit to Copenhagen in 2009 did not help in Chicago's losing cause for the 2016 Summer Games that went to Rio de Janeiro.For its second turn, Salt Lake City will get almost 10 full years to prepare — the longest lead-in for a modern Winter Games — amid longer-term concerns about climate change affecting snow sports and reducing the pool of potential hosts.Salt Lake City opted to target 2034 and so avoided potential commercial and logistical clashes with the 2028 Summer Games being hosted by Los Angeles.It will be the fifth Winter Games in the U.S. Before Salt Lake City in 2002, there was Lake Placid in 1980 and 1932, and Squaw Valley — now known as Olympic Valley — in 1960.In a separate decision earlier in Paris, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/winter-olympics-2030-france-alps-nice-ioc-e14c106194e303b5a2ffa968740650b0">2030 Winter Games was awarded</a>&nbsp;— with conditions — to France for a regional project split between ski resorts in the Alps and the French Riviera city Nice.That project needs official signoff from the national government being formed, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-prime-minister-resign-government-macron-c3a908360a18641ff5879ced259f7726">the Prime Minister yet to be confirmed</a>, after recent elections called by President Emmanuel Macron. He helped present the 2030 bid Wednesday to IOC members.

IOC awards 2034 Winter Games to Utah 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jordan Montgomery allowed one run over five innings to win in his return from a layoff of nearly one month caused by a knee injury, and the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Kansas City Royals 6-2 Tuesday night.

Ketel Marte hit a two-run homer and scored three runs.

Montgomery (7-5) allowed three hits, walked one and struck out two, throwing 39 of 67 pitches for strikes. The 31-year-old left-hander, signed by the NL champions to a $25 million, one-year contract in March, had been sidelined since June 27 by right knee inflammation. He won for the first time since June 21 at Philadelphia.

“I felt comfortable out there and pain free, and that was nice to be pain free,” Montgomery said. “I think it just messed with my delivery a little bit, where I was yanking everything and I didn’t want to put any pressure on my legs, but I grinded it out and I’m glad to be here now.”

Arizona manager Torey Lovullo said Montgomery was nearing his pitch count when he finished a 1-2-3 fifth inning.

“His changeup was in play, and that’s a very key pitch for him,” Lovullo said. “The first go-round before he got banged up, it was a pitch he was leaving out over the plate. The pitch was very, very effective and he had a lot of confidence in it.”

Montgomery got four swings and misses on 19 changeups and six foul balls.

“It got me through the game,” Montgomery said. “I was a little wild with everything else. My four-seam and my changeup really got me through, got me some swing and miss when I needed it.”

Bryce Jarvis pitched two shutout innings, and Joe Mantiply, Ryan Thompson and Kevin Ginkel finished as Arizona stopped the Royals’ four-game winning streak. Kansas City had won eight of 10 coming in.

Bobby Witt Jr. went 1 for 4 with an RBI double in the first, ending his streak of four straight three-hit games.

Marte hit a two-run homer off the right-field foul pole in the fifth against Alec Marsh (7-7), who gave up five runs, five hits and two walks in five innings. Marte followed Geraldo Perdomo’s leadoff double with his 21st home run.

“I was trying to down and away with a changeup and he just jumped it,” Marsh said.

Christian Walker’s sacrifice fly and Gabriel Moreno’s two-out, two-run single built a 3-0 lead in the first.

Witt’s double was his 13th hit in 16 at-bats since the All-Star Game, his sixth for extra bases. Salvador Perez had an RBI single in the ninth.

Arizona optioned right-hander Humberto Castellanos to Triple-A Reno and activated Montgomery.

Kansas City agreed to a minor league contract with the sixth overall draft pick Jac Caglianone, a two-way player from the University of Florida.

Arizona RHP Ryne Nelson (7-6, 4.78) starts Wednesday night’s series finale against Kansas City RHP Michael Wacha (7-6, 3.55).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721813983299.jpeg" alt="Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Jordan Montgomery throws from the mound during the first inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals in Kansas City, Mo., Tuesday, July 23, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Jordan Montgomery throws from the mound during the first inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals in Kansas City, Mo., Tuesday, July 23, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jordan Montgomery allowed one run over five innings to win in his return from a layoff of nearly one month caused by a knee injury, and the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Kansas City Royals 6-2 Tuesday night.Ketel Marte hit a two-run homer and scored three runs.Montgomery (7-5) allowed three hits, walked one and struck out two, throwing 39 of 67 pitches for strikes. The 31-year-old left-hander, signed by the NL champions to a $25 million, one-year contract in March, had been sidelined since June 27 by right knee inflammation. He won for the first time since June 21 at Philadelphia.“I felt comfortable out there and pain free, and that was nice to be pain free,” Montgomery said. “I think it just messed with my delivery a little bit, where I was yanking everything and I didn’t want to put any pressure on my legs, but I grinded it out and I’m glad to be here now.”Arizona manager Torey Lovullo said Montgomery was nearing his pitch count when he finished a 1-2-3 fifth inning.“His changeup was in play, and that’s a very key pitch for him,” Lovullo said. “The first go-round before he got banged up, it was a pitch he was leaving out over the plate. The pitch was very, very effective and he had a lot of confidence in it.”Montgomery got four swings and misses on 19 changeups and six foul balls.“It got me through the game,” Montgomery said. “I was a little wild with everything else. My four-seam and my changeup really got me through, got me some swing and miss when I needed it.”Bryce Jarvis pitched two shutout innings, and Joe Mantiply, Ryan Thompson and Kevin Ginkel finished as Arizona stopped the Royals’ four-game winning streak. Kansas City had won eight of 10 coming in.Bobby Witt Jr. went 1 for 4 with an RBI double in the first, ending his streak of four straight three-hit games.Marte hit a two-run homer off the right-field foul pole in the fifth against Alec Marsh (7-7), who gave up five runs, five hits and two walks in five innings. Marte followed Geraldo Perdomo’s leadoff double with his 21st home run.“I was trying to down and away with a changeup and he just jumped it,” Marsh said.Christian Walker’s sacrifice fly and Gabriel Moreno’s two-out, two-run single built a 3-0 lead in the first.Witt’s double was his 13th hit in 16 at-bats since the All-Star Game, his sixth for extra bases. Salvador Perez had an RBI single in the ninth.Arizona optioned right-hander Humberto Castellanos to Triple-A Reno and activated Montgomery.Kansas City agreed to a minor league contract with the sixth overall draft pick Jac Caglianone, a two-way player from the University of Florida.UP NEXTArizona RHP Ryne Nelson (7-6, 4.78) starts Wednesday night’s series finale against Kansas City RHP Michael Wacha (7-6, 3.55).___

⚾ Montgomery returns from injured list and pitches Diamondbacks over Royals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics
Association released its 2024 Preseason Polls for football on Tuesday, July 23
at its annual Football Media Day in Kansas City. The Tigers were picked fifth
in both the in the Coaches Poll and Media Poll. Central Missouri, co-champion
of the MIAA in 2023, was picked first in both polls.

FHSU tied for fifth in the MIAA standings in 2023, finishing
with an overall record of 7-4. All of the Tigers' losses in 2023 were to the
teams that finished in front of them in the conference standings. The Tigers
had a strong bounce-back season from a tough 2022, reaching the seven-win mark
in a season for the seventh time under head coach Chris Brown.

The conference will consist of only 10 teams in 2024 after
Lincoln's departure to the Great Lakes Valley Conference and Northeastern State
electing to play as an independent in football. The Tigers will have two
non-conference games on their schedule this year, which includes a solid Angelo
State team for the season opener in Hays in late August and then a meeting with
Northeastern State in mid-September in Hays. Angelo State was an NCAA Playoffs
team in 2021 and 2022 and finished 7-3 in 2023.

Both polls were nearly the same, with the only difference
being Emporia State picked fourth in the coaches poll and sixth in the media
poll, while Missouri Western was picked fourth in the media poll and sixth in
the coaches poll. Central Missouri (1st), Pittsburg State (2nd), and Northwest
Missouri State (3rd) were the top three teams in both polls. Central Missouri
and Pittsburg State tied for the MIAA regular season title last year and both
played in the NCAA Playoffs.

The Tigers return 20 of their 22 starters from the 2023
season, which includes all 11 on offense and nine on defense. The Tigers also
boast 16 of their 17 all-conference players returning from a season ago. John
Johnson, Myles Menges, Mason Perez, Kobe Rome, Parrish Terry, Makel Williams,
Trevion Mitchell, and Sam Brandt were all-conference performers for the Tigers
on the defensive side of the ball, while offensive players earning selections
included Trevor Watts, Jack Dawson, Josh Shaw, Jayden Horace, Cale Cormaney,
Dawson Reynolds, and Kofi Karikari. All-conference kicker Carson Arndt also
returns.

Fort Hays State had the second-best total defense (300.1
yards per game) and third-best scoring defense (21.5 points per game) among
MIAA teams in 2023. On the flip side, the Tigers had the fourth-best total
offense average (420.2 yards per game) among conference teams.

Fort Hays State plays at home six times in 2024, which
includes their two non-conference opponents mentioned above. The first MIAA
opponent of the 2024 season for FHSU will be Missouri Western on September 7 in
Hays. The Tigers will also host defending MIAA co-champion Central Missouri in
Hays for Homecoming on October 5, Washburn on October 12, and Missouri Southern
on October 26.

Get your season tickets today by contacting the FHSU
Athletic Department at (785) 628-4050 or drop by the office in person.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">2024 Fort Hays State Football Schedule</a>

See the MIAA preseason polls below.

2024 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON COACHES POLL 1. Central Missouri [8] - 80 points 2. Pittsburg State [2] - 73 points 3. Northwest Missouri - 58 points 4. Emporia State - 56 points 5. Fort Hays State - 55 points 6. Missouri Western - 42 points 7. Central Oklahoma - 31 points 8. Missouri Southern - 24 points 9. Washburn - 16 points 10. Nebraska Kearney - 15 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes

2024 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON MEDIA POLL 1. Central Missouri [20] - 254 points 2. Pittsburg State [6] - 231 points 3. Northwest Missouri - 199 points 4. Missouri Western - 158 points 5. Fort Hays State - 155 points 6. Emporia State - 145 points 7. Central Oklahoma - 94 points 8. Missouri Southern - 81 points 9. Washburn - 60 points 10. Nebraska Kearney - 53 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721747076450.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics
Association released its 2024 Preseason Polls for football on Tuesday, July 23
at its annual Football Media Day in Kansas City. The Tigers were picked fifth
in both the in the Coaches Poll and Media Poll. Central Missouri, co-champion
of the MIAA in 2023, was picked first in both polls.FHSU tied for fifth in the MIAA standings in 2023, finishing
with an overall record of 7-4. All of the Tigers' losses in 2023 were to the
teams that finished in front of them in the conference standings. The Tigers
had a strong bounce-back season from a tough 2022, reaching the seven-win mark
in a season for the seventh time under head coach Chris Brown.The conference will consist of only 10 teams in 2024 after
Lincoln's departure to the Great Lakes Valley Conference and Northeastern State
electing to play as an independent in football. The Tigers will have two
non-conference games on their schedule this year, which includes a solid Angelo
State team for the season opener in Hays in late August and then a meeting with
Northeastern State in mid-September in Hays. Angelo State was an NCAA Playoffs
team in 2021 and 2022 and finished 7-3 in 2023.Both polls were nearly the same, with the only difference
being Emporia State picked fourth in the coaches poll and sixth in the media
poll, while Missouri Western was picked fourth in the media poll and sixth in
the coaches poll. Central Missouri (1st), Pittsburg State (2nd), and Northwest
Missouri State (3rd) were the top three teams in both polls. Central Missouri
and Pittsburg State tied for the MIAA regular season title last year and both
played in the NCAA Playoffs.The Tigers return 20 of their 22 starters from the 2023
season, which includes all 11 on offense and nine on defense. The Tigers also
boast 16 of their 17 all-conference players returning from a season ago. John
Johnson, Myles Menges, Mason Perez, Kobe Rome, Parrish Terry, Makel Williams,
Trevion Mitchell, and Sam Brandt were all-conference performers for the Tigers
on the defensive side of the ball, while offensive players earning selections
included Trevor Watts, Jack Dawson, Josh Shaw, Jayden Horace, Cale Cormaney,
Dawson Reynolds, and Kofi Karikari. All-conference kicker Carson Arndt also
returns.Fort Hays State had the second-best total defense (300.1
yards per game) and third-best scoring defense (21.5 points per game) among
MIAA teams in 2023. On the flip side, the Tigers had the fourth-best total
offense average (420.2 yards per game) among conference teams.Fort Hays State plays at home six times in 2024, which
includes their two non-conference opponents mentioned above. The first MIAA
opponent of the 2024 season for FHSU will be Missouri Western on September 7 in
Hays. The Tigers will also host defending MIAA co-champion Central Missouri in
Hays for Homecoming on October 5, Washburn on October 12, and Missouri Southern
on October 26.Get your season tickets today by contacting the FHSU
Athletic Department at (785) 628-4050 or drop by the office in person.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">2024 Fort Hays State Football Schedule</a>See the MIAA preseason polls below.2024 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON COACHES POLL 1. Central Missouri [8] - 80 points 2. Pittsburg State [2] - 73 points 3. Northwest Missouri - 58 points 4. Emporia State - 56 points 5. Fort Hays State - 55 points 6. Missouri Western - 42 points 7. Central Oklahoma - 31 points 8. Missouri Southern - 24 points 9. Washburn - 16 points 10. Nebraska Kearney - 15 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes2024 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON MEDIA POLL 1. Central Missouri [20] - 254 points 2. Pittsburg State [6] - 231 points 3. Northwest Missouri - 199 points 4. Missouri Western - 158 points 5. Fort Hays State - 155 points 6. Emporia State - 145 points 7. Central Oklahoma - 94 points 8. Missouri Southern - 81 points 9. Washburn - 60 points 10. Nebraska Kearney - 53 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes

🏈Tigers Picked Fifth in 2024 MIAA Football Preseason Polls

Tuesday, July 23
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Arizona Diamondbacks, 6:30pm

Sunday, July 28
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. TBD, approx. 11:45am &nbsp;KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 12:30pm&nbsp;

Tuesday, July 23
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Arizona Diamondbacks, 6:30pmWednesday, July 24
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Arizona Diamondbacks, 6:30pmThursday, July 25Friday, July 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 6:30pm
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. TBD, approx. 8:15pmSaturday, July 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 5:30pmSunday, July 28
 KFIX: Hays Larks vs. TBD, approx. 11:45am &nbsp;KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Chicago Cubs, 12:30pm&nbsp;

🎥 Meet the Larks Kaiden Ashton

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The annual MIAA Football Media Day,
presented by Seigfreid Bingham, will be available to watch live for FREE on <a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/">The
MIAA Network</a>, Tuesday, July 23, 2024.

All 10 MIAA football head coaches and at least two
student-athletes from each school will be in attendance along with media from
throughout the conference footprint. The event takes place at the Kauffman
Foundation Conference Center in Kansas City, Missouri.

Live coverage of press conferences begin on <a href="http://www.themiaanetwork.com/">The MIAA Network
</a>at 9:30 a.m. with opening comments from MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy and then
MIAA Football Supervisor of Officials Phil Laurie. The MIAA Network app is
available on Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, and Roku. The MIAA Network
is also available via your computer or mobile device. The complete schedule of
appearances and times for each school are listed below. No subscription is
required to watch the press conferences with free viewing throughout the entire
day.

Teams represented by head coaches and two student-athletes
will participate in 15-minute press conferences throughout the morning and into
the afternoon.

The Fort Hays State press conference is set for 10:30 a.m.
as head coach Chris Brown and student-athletes Myles Menges and Jack Dawson
will be in attendance.

Opening 9:30 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; MIAA
Commissioner Update – Mike Racy 9:45 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; MIAA
Supervisor of Officials Update – Phil Laurie

Session I 10:00 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Washburn 10:15 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Emporia State 10:30 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fort
Hays State 10:45 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Break 11:00 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Nebraska Kearney 11:15 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Central Oklahoma

Session II 12:00 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Missouri Southern 12:15 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Pittsburg State 12:30 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Central Missouri 12:45 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Break 1:00 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Missouri Western 1:15 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Northwest Missouri

Closing 1:30 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; MIAA

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721736746872.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The annual MIAA Football Media Day,
presented by Seigfreid Bingham, will be available to watch live for FREE on <a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/">The
MIAA Network</a>, Tuesday, July 23, 2024.All 10 MIAA football head coaches and at least two
student-athletes from each school will be in attendance along with media from
throughout the conference footprint. The event takes place at the Kauffman
Foundation Conference Center in Kansas City, Missouri.Live coverage of press conferences begin on <a href="http://www.themiaanetwork.com/">The MIAA Network
</a>at 9:30 a.m. with opening comments from MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy and then
MIAA Football Supervisor of Officials Phil Laurie. The MIAA Network app is
available on Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, and Roku. The MIAA Network
is also available via your computer or mobile device. The complete schedule of
appearances and times for each school are listed below. No subscription is
required to watch the press conferences with free viewing throughout the entire
day.Teams represented by head coaches and two student-athletes
will participate in 15-minute press conferences throughout the morning and into
the afternoon.The Fort Hays State press conference is set for 10:30 a.m.
as head coach Chris Brown and student-athletes Myles Menges and Jack Dawson
will be in attendance.2024 Football Media Day ScheduleOpening 9:30 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; MIAA
Commissioner Update – Mike Racy 9:45 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; MIAA
Supervisor of Officials Update – Phil LaurieSession I 10:00 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Washburn 10:15 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Emporia State 10:30 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fort
Hays State 10:45 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Break 11:00 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Nebraska Kearney 11:15 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Central OklahomaSession II 12:00 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Missouri Southern 12:15 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Pittsburg State 12:30 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Central Missouri 12:45 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Break 1:00 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Missouri Western 1:15 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Northwest MissouriClosing 1:30 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; MIAA

Watch MIAA Football Media Day FREE on the The MIAA Network – Tuesday, July 23

HAYS – The Hays Larks entered the final game of the
regular season Monday night a half-game back of idle Liberal and the top spot
in the Rocky Mountain Baseball League, need a win to claim their fifth straight
league championship.

The Larks and Bee Jays finished with identical 22-6 RMBL
records with Hays taking three-of-four in the head-to-head matchups.

Hays PostHAYS – The Hays Larks entered the final game of the
regular season Monday night a half-game back of idle Liberal and the top spot
in the Rocky Mountain Baseball League, need a win to claim their fifth straight
league championship.The Larks and Bee Jays finished with identical 22-6 RMBL
records with Hays taking three-of-four in the head-to-head matchups. And they wasted no time scoring 6 runs over the first four
innings in a 11-3 win over the Dodge City A’s.The Larks scored single runs in the first two innings,
scoring on a bases loaded walk in the first and a Kaleb Duncan triple in the
second for a 2-1 lead.After Dodge City scored two runs in the top of the third
Hays answered with two runs in the bottom of the third and fourth innings. Trent Baker tripled in a run and then Thomas Lyssy followed with
an RBI double in the third making it 4-3 Larks.Wilbert Espinal homered in the bottom of the fourth
extending the Larks lead to 6-3.After scoring on a Kaleb Duncan RBI groundout in the sixth
the Larks broke the game open with four runs in the bottom of the seventh
inning.Bakers singled home a run, followed by a two-run double for
Lyssy who then scored on a wild pitch putting Hays up 11-3.Lyssy doubled three times and drove in three runs and
Wilbert Espinal homered and drove in three runs. Dalton Campbell earned the win for Hays. He allowed three
runs on five hits with five strikeouts and two walks in five innings.The Larks (28-8 &amp; 22-6 RMLB) open play at the NBC World
Series Friday in the 8:30 p.m. game against the Air Capital Flyers.

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